WCNW December 23 by Benham Publishing Limited

Together, We’re Well Connected Quarterly Business Magazine

WINTER 2023

THE BIG INTERVIEW

Paul Fecher

Chairman - Northwood Group

British Chambers of Commerce Ac

c r e d it e d

WELCOME

Welcome to the Winter edition of our Quarterly Business Magazine

Contact Matthew Hodgson Churchill House, Queen’s Park Campus, Queen’s Park Road, Chester CH4 7AD t: 01244 669988 e: info@wcnwchamber.org.uk w: www.wcnwchamber.org.uk Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ t: 0151 236 4141 f: 0151 236 0440 e: admin@benhampublishing.com w: www.benhampublishing.com Published December 2023 © Benham Publishing Media no. 1985 Advertising and Features Karen Hall t: 0151 236 4141 e: karen@benhampublishing.com Design David Wright t: 0151 236 4141 e: Dave@benhampublishing.com

As 2023 draws to a close, we can reflect on a year that has posed some tough conditions for businesses. I’ve continued to work closely with colleagues at the British Chambers of Commerce to ensure that your voice as a member has been heard and that the issues impacting businesses in our region are being raised with ministers in Whitehall and The Senedd. As always, if your business is facing issues, please be sure to let us know by contacting the team on 01244 669988.

to everyone who entered a nomination and we are already looking forward to next year! You can find a full overview of the night on pages 28-31.

Despite wider economic challenges, it has been incredible to witness the resilience and determination of members and this culminated in our recent Annual Ball & Recognition Awards ceremony. We had a fantastic night of celebration and congratulations to all finalists and those who took home an award. Thank you

I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support throughout the year and I hope you have been able to fully maximise the benefits available to you as a Chamber member. I hope you are able to relax and enjoy time with loved ones over the festive break and we look forward to supporting you again in the New Year.

2023 has been a fantastic year for our Networking events which have been as popular as ever with a number of highlights throughout the year. We now turn ourselves to 2024 with a host of events already on our website ready to be booked onto. I would strongly advise planning ahead and securing your spots ahead of time if possible.

Inside: 4-7

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CHAMBER NEWS

YOUNG CHAMBER

THE BIG INTERVIEW

Disclaimer The magazine is mailed without charge to all Chamber members

and distributed to businesses in the region. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in publication are not necessarily those of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission of the Editor. © 2023. 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.

INSIGHT INTO

WHAT I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT

PERSON BEHIND THE BUSINESS

@ChamberWCNW West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce /wcnwchamber WCNWChamber

CHAMBER NEWS

Call for evidence launched by BCC Workplace Equity Commission A call for evidence has been launched by the British Chambers of Commerce Workplace Equity Commission, urging businesses, stakeholders and interested parties to contribute towards making change happen. The commission includes representatives from the UK and international chamber networks, business leaders and experts from across civic society. Meeting regularly over the next 12 months, the group will produce practical recommendations to help SMEs create more fair and equitable workplaces. The Commission defines workplace equity as creating a level playing field for individuals, recognising that we do not all start from the same place and that adjustments may be required to provide fair access to opportunity. The inquiry considers workplace equity from the perspective of SMEs across all sectors and geographies in the United Kingdom. The focus is on workplace equity for everyone in work, and those wishing to access work. Businesses, individuals and organisations with views and experience are being encouraged to contribute to the research. The Commission is part of the BCC’s three-year workplace equity campaign, the inspiration for which came from the findings of the BCC International Women’s Day research, published last March, that surveyed 4,000 people. The research found that many people are facing barriers to career progression and feel they are missing out on opportunities.

“To grow our economy, we need to nurture and support the ambition, skills and potential of people in every part of our community.” 44

The commission is inviting submissions addressing any of the following questions: 1. How do we create a culture where leaders ensure workplace equity is at the heart of business and where they commit to the cultural change required? 2. What challenges do SMEs face in creating equitable workplaces and how can they be supported to overcome them? What are the critical factors that would help employers? 3. What positive actions are businesses taking to develop equitable workplaces? Please tell us about any specific initiatives or cultural change programmes that have worked well. 4. What was the catalyst that led to the desire to change? 5. What are the factors that made the initiative successful? 6. What has been the impact of this investment? 7. How can we support employers to accommodate the diverse and often complex needs of individuals that may limit opportunity?’ 8. What funding and/or support can businesses access to support their efforts to create more equitable workplaces? 9. How can local government, Chambers of Commerce and other partners at a local level work together to support SMEs? Where are the examples of best practice in collaborative working? 10. What lessons can we learn from other countries? 11. What lessons can we learn from other countries?

Gill Hunter, Managing Partner of Square One Law and co-chair of the commission, said: “We are delighted to launch our inquiry into workplace equity. The commissioners all bring unique insight from their different personal and professional backgrounds. “We want to hear from anyone who has experience or views on how SMEs can create workplaces that truly create a level playing field for everyone. Personal testimony will help us fully understand how diverse workforces can be recruited and retained.” Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “To grow our economy, we need to nurture and support the ambition, skills and potential of people in every part of our community. “Everyone’s ideas, skills and experience are important to business and the economy, and must not be wasted. We want to help businesses ensure a level playing field in our workplaces where everyone can achieve their potential. “We know companies are facing real economic challenges – but embedding equity into workplaces is good for business and the workforce and can improve productivity and growth. “We’re excited to be opening up the debate to anyone with a story to tell on this important issue. Sharing best practice will be particularly important. By listening and learning over the coming months, our commissioners plan to come up with practical recommendations for SMEs that can make a lasting difference.”

Sales Club 2.0 launched to further support local businesses The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce was delighted to launch Sales Club 2.0 in collaboration with Sales Geek North Wales! Sales Club 2.0 builds on the previous 12 months of its predecessor with brand-new content and support. Extra progression from session to session is also available as the expert support of Aaron Sussex, Sales Geek North Wales, allows local businesses and business professionals to better understand and gain further insights into key areas of business. The first session was launched on Friday 6th October as attendees were welcomed to Village Hotel Chester St David’s. The morning started with some light networking before Aaron began the session, focusing on ‘Sales Acceleration in a Challenging Economy.’

CHAMBER NEWS

n Attendees learnt how to accelerate their sales in a challenging economy

Aaron delivered an insightful interactive presentation which allowed attendees to learn useful hints, tips, skills and advice which can be immediately implemented into their work. Tom Crook, also from Sales Geek, was in attendance to support the members with any questions they may have had and to facilitate access to Sales Geek’s online Sales Academy which offers bitesize training for all attendees. Jennifer Kennedy, Head of Membership at West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, commented: “We were extremely pleased to launch Sales Club 2.0 in collaboration with Sales Geek North

Wales. The club has allowed us to support many local businesses over the past year and it was wonderful to see so many new and familiar faces at the maiden 2.0 session.” Aaron Sussex, Director at Sales Geek North Wales, added: “It’s always a little humbling when you see so many business owners and salespeople take time out of their day to attend Sales Club. The feedback was fantastic, and it definitely helps when you have so many energetic and engaging people in the room to work with.” Thank you to Aaron for delivering a fantastic first session. Visit our website for more information on upcoming Sales Club 2.0 sessions.

Lunch & Learn Power Hour a success! The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce held its second Lunch & Learn Power Hour on 12th October at Ramada Plaza Wrexham.

n The Lunch & Learn hosted by Insight6 focused on the customer experience process

The one-hour session was sponsored and hosted by customer experience specialists, Insight6 North Wales, Chester, & The Wirral. Customer Experience Director, Rhian Anstey, hosted a fantastic interactive session that left attendees with many great strategies and ideas on how they can improve their customer experience process. Rhian commented following the event: “Running the Lunch & Learn session for the Chamber was really enjoyable. It was great to have so many businesses attend and get involved in the session. We delved into the subject of elevating the customer experience, exploring the intricate paths of customer journey mapping and the transformative power of feedback.”

Lunch & Learn seeks to enhance the membership offer of the Chamber by giving members the chance to hear about interesting topics and take part in workshops that are sponsored & hosted by fellow members.

year, we were delighted to welcome Insight6 as a host. Thank you to Rhian for delivering a fascinating and interactive session that left fellow members with many insightful ways to improve their customer experience skills.”

Jennifer Kennedy, Head of Membership at West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, added: “Lunch & Learn Power Hour was launched to add extra value to our Chamber membership by giving members a chance to grow their skills in key business areas. Following the success of the first session earlier this

To find out more about how Insight6 can support your business, visit their website or email enquiries@insight6.com. If you are interested in sponsoring a Lunch & Learn Power Hour, please get in touch with us on 01244 669988 or email info@wcnwchamber.org.uk for more information.

CHAMBER NEWS

Robin Tudor joins Chamber’s Board of Directors

n Robin Tudor, Head of PR & Communications at LJLA, with Chair of the Chamber, Helen Nellist

The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce is delighted to welcome the newest member of its Boad of Directors, Robin Tudor, Head of PR & Communications at Liverpool John Lennon Airport. Robin’s commitment to the Chamber over the years has been evident, with the Airport being a Strategic Chamber member, hosting a fantastic yearly behind the scenes tour event, and their continuing engagement at Chamber events and via communication channels. Robin commented the following on his appointment; “I’m delighted to have been invited to join the Chamber Board. Working for a business that facilitates international travel for businesses from

across West Cheshire and North Wales as well as being a gateway for the region’s visitor economy, “I hope that I can help support the team at the Chamber with my transport and travel experience as well as any PR advice should it be required”. Debbie Bryce, Chief Executive Officer at West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, added; “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Robin to our Board of Directors. Robin’s plethora of experience in both the transport and PR sectors will be a fantastic addition to our board, and will only further the Chamber’s drive and commitment to help support members across our region.”

MEMBERS NEWS

Unwrapping the law of Christmas gifts:

A Jolly Guide for Employers

The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the delightful tradition of exchanging Christmas gifts. As an employer, it’s important to understand the legalities surrounding employee and customer gifts, as well as the rules for Christmas party allowances. So, grab your Santa hat and dive into the merry world of gift-giving under UK law with Wurkplace Ltd! The Law of Christmas Gifts for Employees: As an employer, you can spread some holiday cheer by giving Christmas gifts to your employees. The good news is that these gifts can be considered tax-free, as long as they meet certain conditions. To avoid any “Bah, humbug!” moments, remember: The gift must not be cash or a cash voucher. Consider something more personal, like a festive hamper or a fun company-branded item. The cost of the gift should not exceed £50. However, if you’re feeling extra generous, keep in mind that any excess amount will be subject to income tax and National Insurance contributions.

Christmas Party Allowance Per Person: Nothing says “ho ho ho” like a memorable Christmas party for your employees. And the best part? You can

claim tax relief for the costs incurred, as long as you follow these guidelines: The party must be an annual event open to all employees. The cost per person, including VAT, should not exceed £150. But don’t worry, this limit covers not only the party venue and food, but also any entertainment or transport expenses.

Spreading Festive Joy to Customers: While giving gifts to your valued customers is a wonderful gesture, it’s important to understand that the rules differ slightly. Here’s how to navigate the gift-giving sleigh ride: Customer gifts can be tax-deductible, as long as they are not excessive or overly lavish. Think of thoughtful and modest gifts that show your appreciation, without breaking the bank. Ensure the gifts are given to customers in the ordinary course of your business. For example, if you’re a retailer, offering a

small token of thanks with a purchase is perfectly acceptable.

How to Explain to HMRC: If HMRC decides to slide down your chimney for a visit, it’s crucial to keep accurate records and explain your Christmas gifting activities. Make sure you: • Keep detailed records of the gifts given to employees and customers. • Clearly explain the purpose and nature of the gifts when reporting to HMRC. • Seek professional advice if you’re unsure about any tax implications.

Conclusion: ‘Tis the season to be jolly, and understanding the law of Christmas gifts as an employer can ensure a smooth sleigh ride through the holiday season. Remember, a touch of humour and thoughtfulness go a long way in spreading festive cheer while staying on the right side of the law. So, go forth, be merry, and may your workplace be filled with joy and laughter this Christmas!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. It’s always recommended to consult with a qualified professional for specific legal guidance.

2023

Events and Comms Review

With only a couple of weeks left of 2023, it is a perfect time to look back on another busy year for the Chamber as we’ve been committed to providing you, our members, with a host of events and benefits to support your business and help you prosper.

CHAMBER NEWS Over 440 member news articles shared We’ve helped spread the word about members through our website, social media, newsletter and this very magazine!

We hope that you have been able to maximise your membership with us over the last 12 months and you can view a snapshot of the support we’ve provided below.

We look forward to support you in 2024 and beyond! Over 3300 people have attended 104 Chamber events

n Refurbishment and Redecoration of Historic Chester Building

n First leg of major redevelopment of n Networking Lunch at Llandudno Bay Hotel

50 businesses engage with Sales Club

n Round the Table Networking at Chester Cathedral

140 businesses supported through Start-Up Club

n Our North Wales Start-Up Club takes place at Penderyn Distillery

Over £11,000 raised for charity by your kind donations n Over £4000 was

raised for Nightingale House through our North Wales Dinner and taking part in The Midnight Walk

Wrexham University Engineering Facility

n The West Cheshire Start-Up Club is going from strength to strength!

n An amazing

£7000 was raised at our Annual Ball & Recognition Awards for Hospice of the Good Shepherd

STRATEGIC MEMBERS NEWS

Umbrella Marketing Team: Nine years into the journey Umbrella Marketing Team is turning nine years old, and what an amazing journey we have had so far! Spotting a gap in the market all those years ago, Umbrella Marketing Team was created to be a flexible outsourced marketing team, offering an alternative to marketing agencies by delivering specialist services collaboratively as an extension of our clients’ own teams. We removed the need for recruitment, helped lower overheads and focused on delivering results quickly and efficiently for our clients. We introduced marketing services to suit the unique requirements of our clients and are proud of each marketing project we have designed and the countless websites, brands, products, services, and events we have helped launch. Our team has created beautiful and useful online and offline content, marketing materials and strategies. Olivia Mulhearn Head of Marketing Services, said “Over the last nine years, Umbrella has achieved remarkable success. Having collaborated with over 80 clients, we have established a reputable presence on a regional level,

even amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. We are thrilled to announce that we will be expanding our service offerings this year with the addition of our new lead generation service.” Umbrella Marketing Team’s New Lead Generation Service Never one to rest on our laurels, we have taken on board that for many of our clients, generating qualified leads is often their primary marketing goal. Our new lead generation service, launching this Winter, is designed to do all the groundwork of delivering the right leads for your business, leaving you to focus all your energy and attention on what you do best. We still believe that having your digital and offline “shop window” sorted with great web, social, and appropriate printed collateral is important, and this new service follows on with both automated and telemarketing lead generation. We would like to thank all our clients and the Chamber of Commerce for their

continued support. We are very proud of the team we have at Umbrella, who are always ready to take on a new challenge - here’s to the future!

Community at heart of busy schedule in Blacon It’s been a busy and hugely rewarding few months for everyone at Avenue Services, with our teams delivering a packed programme of projects and activities for residents in Blacon. At the start of July, we welcomed thousands of visitors to Queen Elizabeth Fields to enjoy the latest instalment of the Blacon Festival. This annual event is a true celebration of the fantastic strength of community in Blacon, and it was wonderful to see so many people joining us and lending their support to make it another memorable occasion. As our local schools closed their doors for the summer break, we launched our annual Blacon Summer Programme. Working with our local councillors, community partners and dedicated volunteers, we delivered a packed schedule of activities that saw almost

2,700 children take part in a total of 95 sessions across Blacon. The summer programme was once again supported by funding from the Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food programme, distributed through community interest company Edsential. This additional funding enabled us to provide almost 4,000 free packed lunches for children at Blacon Adventure Playground over the school holidays. As we move into winter there has been no let up in activity. Our team at Blacon Adventure Playground are working closely with local schools and colleges to offer

educational and voluntary placements at the site. We recognise the benefits that vocational placements such as these can bring and are delighted that more than 500 placement hours were logged during September alone, with 24 individuals achieving formal qualifications as a direct result. We’ve also recently hosted a suitably spooky Hallowe’en event at the playground and are looking forward to the festive season, with our Christmas Fair at the Parade Enterprise Centre on 18 November and the Blacon Lights Switchon taking place on 3 December.

n Residents in Blacon have enjoyed a packed programme of projects and activities over the last few months!

STRATEGIC MEMBERS NEWS

Feefo Gold Award Winner 2022! E2E Integration have some exciting news to share – they’ve won a Feefo Gold Trusted Service Award for their customer service in 2022! The Feefo Gold Trusted Service Award is for brands that go above and beyond to deliver exceptional customer service, year-round. It shows that E2E are delivering time and again for their customers and placing customer service at the heart of what they do. To win this award, E2E had to collect at least 50 reviews between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2022 and achieve a Feefo service rating of at least 4.5. E2E couldn’t have done it without you, their customers, so they’d like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for sharing your ratings and reviews with Feefo. Sales and Marketing Director at E2E Integration, Paul Verinder, said: “This award is another vote of confidence in our brand from our customers. It means a lot to us because it’s based on your honest, valuable feedback and, ultimately, keeping you happy is why we come to work each day.

“We’re committed to continuing to deliver the highest quality of service and will continue to listen, understand and respond to all our customers. “Thank you again to everyone who took the time to leave us a review. Here’s to greater customer service in 2024!”

We’re committed to continuing to deliver the highest quality of service and will continue to listen, understand and respond to all our customers. “Thank you again to everyone who took the time to leave us a review. Here’s to greater customer service in 2024!”

Manage market unpredictability in 2024 The only thing you can predict as a business owner is that the markets are unpredictable. In 2024, continued recessionary concerns are expected to linger over the UK and the eurozone, whereas in the US, there continues to be expectations for the economy to have a soft landing. This combined with both the Bank of England and the European Central Bank possibly looking to cut interest rates in an effort to aid economic growth, while the Federal Reserve (in their battle against inflation) has the option to keep rates higher for longer. This will give markets reason to favour the US dollar over both the pound and the euro. These factors, along with the potential for global risk appetite to fall, will all likely

contribute to a difficult trading environment for 2024. You can’t control these factors - but you can control how you manage unpredictability and protect your business. Ashley Salisbury, Senior Sales Manager at Equals Money, added “For the remainder of the year, it’s vital for businesses of all sizes to consider their finances, including how you manage volatility and take care of your company. As strategic members of the WCNW Chamber, Equals Money is here to keep you up to date on key economic movements and the potential impact on your business. “I would be happy to discuss how Equals Money can assist with our portfolio of competitive exchange rates, FX hedging, and more, so you can spend less time worrying about rates and more time growing your business as we enter the

For the remainder of the year, it’s vital for businesses of all sizes to consider their finances, including how you manage volatility and take care of your company”

n Ashley Salisbury, Senior Sales manager at Equals Money

Get in touch with Ashley on a.salisbury@equalsmoney.com or +44 (0) 1244 572280. 9

STRATEGIC MEMBERS NEWS

A year of success: Zodeq looks back at 2023

The team at invoice finance providers and back-office support specialists, Zodeq are celebrating the end of its seventh successful year in business. An acquisition by financial services provider, Praetura Group in October 2022 means that Zodeq can finance more businesses than ever before and as a result, they welcomed 100 new clients in the last 12 months. This new business has, of course, also led to a growth in team members, with an additional eight new employees joining in the past year, including Sales Director, David Vizard. Specialist recruitment campaigns 2023 saw Zodeq market to specific recruitment sectors for the first time with the launch of two brand new campaigns. The first, ‘Taking care of your cash flow’, launched in April and spoke directly to healthcare recruitment agencies – often viewed as a ‘high risk’ sector - but one Zodeq

is uniquely placed to support due to their ability to provide bespoke finance tailored to the individual company. While ‘Finance that doesn’t byte’, a campaign aimed at recruiters who specialise in the tech industry, went live in September, and continues to be enthusiastically received by the sector. CSR The Zodeq team proudly came together again this year to support numerous charities. In March, Managing Director, Paul alongside Relationship Manager, James and Business Relationship Manager, Michelle, took on both the Chester 10K and Chester Half Marathon in aid of the Countess of Chester’s Blue Skies Appeal. Between them, they raised over £1000 and were presented with a medal in recognition of their outstanding support.

n Paul Cooney, Managing Director of Zodeq Memberships and sponsorships Other notable events in 2023 included Zodeq joining UK Finance as an Invoice Finance and Asset Based Lending Member. While September saw Zodeq’s annual sponsorship of the Recruiter Awards’ Best New Agency category. After a fantastic 2023, packed with both business and personal highlights, the Zodeq team are looking forward to Christmas, and with lots of exciting events in the pipeline, to 2024.

MEMBERS NEWS

Cokebusters named Company of the Year 2023 at the EIC Awards! Last month the Energy Industries Council bestowed on Cokebusters the ultimate award of ‘Company of the Year 2023’. This is an immense privilege and recognition of the imagination of our technologists, the tenacity of our operations delivery teams and our support infrastructure. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our team members for the part they have played in driving Cokebusters to become the success it is today. There is still much to do, but naturally, this prestigious award has prompted us to reflect on our journey and the effort and contribution made by each and every person in the Cokebusters family which has brought us this far. Perhaps one of the most fundamental aspects of the business of which we are most proud, is that Cokebusters has not stood still.

Like so many businesses, we were prevented by law from carrying out our work when the pandemic struck and faced an uncertain future with zero income. We could have stagnated or even thrown in the towel, but instead, we confidently invested in our premises and in our technology. We would not have been able to be so courageous without the support and dedication of key players in our team who continued to have faith in the company during those difficult times. In the post-COVID world, we have seen a culmination of innovative and technological success in developing unusual groundbreaking methods and tools to help solve the major challenges of cleaning and inspecting ‘unpiggable’ tubing and pipeline assets. Today, Cokebusters’ range of intelligent pigs not only enables customers to quantify how clean the process is, but they also provide full diametric and wall thickness profiling, thus enabling an essential insight into asset integrity.

n Cokebusters took home Company of the Year at the EIC Awards

Having gratefully accepted the award, our company Managing Director, James Phipps, said: “Cokebusters is an SME, yet we often find ourselves competing alongside giants in the energy industry, and from our small corner of North Wales some may argue we are punching above our weight. We may be small, but in that, we have the ability to make bold decisions very quickly. Time and bureaucracy can kill off a good idea. We take our lead from our customers and we have the courage to take necessary risks to feed innovation. It seems this drive and determination is paying off tonight!” James Phipps continued: “This is an exciting time of growth for Cokebusters! The ability to successfully develop and deliver this service has unlocked a stream of new business opportunities in the increasingly narrow diameter networks associated with alternative energy markets.”

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PATRON FOCUS

Helping adults and business reach their full potential Adult participation in further education and skills has declined considerably in the last decade. In 2021/22 more than 1.7 million adults were involved in further education compared to nearly 3.3 million at the peak in 2012/13 – a fall of nearly a half. The government understands the role that adult learning can play in closing the skills gap and is looking to address the issue by making financial support more easily available. Further Education colleges are also embracing the challenge by working with employers to ensure that the skills being taught match the commercial requirements. Here Karen Roberts, Assistant Principal – Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement, from Cheshire College South & West, Cheshire’s largest provider of post-16 education, outlines some of the initiatives the College is taking to attract adult students across the region by providing hands-on learning opportunities in partnership with business. To plug the skills gap and encourage adult students, Cheshire College - South & West has launched a range of new parttime courses for adults to upskill, retrain and futureproof their careers in a range of industries. The courses are designed specifically to be relevant in the workplace and aim to update students’ knowledge and skills to ensure they reach their full career potential. The College is also aware that the courses need to be flexible so individuals can reach their goals with study that fits around their lifestyle. The College has also introduced blended delivery models for adult students to choose a study style that suits them, including face-to-face learning, remote learning or a mixture of both. There is also a broad range of courses offered by the various departments including, Business, Construction, Engineering, IT, Fitness, Health and Beauty. In addition to traditional teaching, the College is going out into the community to support the learning needs of businesses. One such example is the work they have done with Likewize, a tech protection and support company based in Crewe.

Cheshire College provided bespoke on-site training to 67 staff members. The College team spent three months on-site upskilling staff with Functional Skills in English (levels 1 and 2), IT (level 1) and Bespoke IT (basics, intermediate and advanced). The training was aimed at Likewize’s warehousing team, where for many English was not their native language. The business invested in their staff development by onboarding the skilled adult learning team at Cheshire College who in turn created bespoke learning courses for the employees - providing them with the opportunity to develop skills, improve in their roles, and open future career opportunities.

“English and IT skills are fundamental in business, so by partnering with Cheshire College we’ve been able to support our colleagues both in their current roles and their longerterm futures.”

n Karen Roberts, Assistant Principal – Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement, from Cheshire College South & West

The secret to success was to ensure that the learning was flexible and able to fit around the person’s lifestyle, but to also offer nationally recognised qualifications that support both the business in improved productivity and student with future opportunities. Cheryl Jackson, Learning and Development Manager at Likewize said: “We are focussed on providing the opportunity for colleagues to learn and develop at all levels of the organisation. “We approached Cheshire College to help us deliver this learning and were able to develop close working relationships with the staff and tutors. With a small investment in time, it was great to see colleagues develop skills, become more confident and improve their effectiveness. As well as gaining important skills, we’ve found that by investing in our colleague’s development, there are greater levels of engagement which also helps to improve overall performance. “English and IT skills are fundamental in business, so by partnering with Cheshire College we’ve been able to support our colleagues both in their current roles and their longer-term futures.” To support adult students there is also a wide range of financial support, whether in the form of an Advanced Student Loan Bursary or an Adult Education Budget. Applications for financial support can be made through the College where there is a team dedicated to making it as simple as possible. By providing flexible learning opportunities and a wide range of courses, both directly or through private sector partnerships, Cheshire College - South & West hopes that adults will be encouraged back to learning so they can advance their careers or retrain and or make a childhood passion a reality.

PATRON FOCUS

Looking back on 2023 for Ellis & Co As 2023 draws to a close and many businesses throughout the UK prepare for a well deserved break over the festive period, the team at Ellis & Co are looking back at what has been a highly successful year. For Ellis & Co, the growing Chartered Accountants and Business Advisory firm was lucky to welcome a number of new members to the team this year, including Emma Wiseman, who joined as a Trainee Accountant. The team also celebrated their very own Alice Williamson in achieving her qualification to become a Senior Accountant and Director, James Ellis, in receiving RI status (Responsible Individual for audits). In celebration of their multiple team successes and multiple client wins, Ellis hosted, sponsored and attended a number of events throughout the year. From sponsoring a showjumping event at the iconic Bolesworth Castle to the sponsoring the Business of the Year Award at the much-anticipated WCNW Chamber Annual Ball and Recognition Awards 2023, and not forgetting those allimportant team building days, including a fateful trip to the Chester Escape Rooms. The icing on the cake of this phenomenal year for Ellis came in the form of a brandnew website and team photoshoot. Showcasing the business’ expertise across a wide range of areas from accountancy to bookkeeping, business consultancy to payroll, the new site comes packed with handy hints and tips on all things taxation, not to mention key dates all business owners must know and useful insights from the business world. Speaking on Ellis’ successes over the past 12 months, Director John Farrell has said: “2023 has been an excellent year at Ellis & Co, both in and out of the office. On behalf of everyone at Ellis & Co I would like to thank all of our clients, contacts and partners and look forward to continuing to work with them in 2024.” Looking forward to 2024 and Ellis and Co are gearing up for what is expected to be yet another great year for both the team and their clients. Key to this is in ensuring that businesses are appropriately preparing for the year ahead and understanding their key

n The Ellis & Co Team

responsibilities as we move into the New Year. So, what can you do to ensure that your 2024 is a success for your business?

Analyse 2023 Of course, before you plan for the next 12 months you must review the previous 12. This will include your successes, any issues you came across, how these were resolved and, importantly, how your cash flow fared in 2023. From doing this you will more accurately be able to identify areas for improvement.

Understand your goals Once you have identified what you want to improve upon, you can then begin to set your business goals for the year ahead. Where do you want the business to be in 2024? And what can your analysis tell you to make these goals achievable? At this stage it is always valuable to consider budgets that will ensure you have the working capital needed to achieve your goals.

Advice from the experts More than just accountants, Ellis & Co are in the ideal position to support businesses in analysis and future planning to give the best chance of success in the New Year. We have a clear view of our clients’ financial standing, extensive knowledge of the company’s pain points and USPs, not to mention many years’ experience in helping businesses to grow and thrive.

“2023 has been an excellent year at Ellis & Co, both in and out of the office. On behalf of everyone at Ellis & Co I would like to thank all of our clients, contacts and partners and look forward to continuing to work with them in 2024.”

Take a look at some of the feedback that Ellis & Co has received from businesses across the North West and North Wales on how they have been supported throughout the past 12 months: “Precision Facades Ltd relationship with Ellis & Co has continued to flourish during 2023. PFL have experienced significant growth over the last few years and Ellis & Co have always been there to support our business with excellent advice on all things finance. The directors and all the staff are a credit to their industry and we look forward to working closely with them all in 2024 and beyond.” Steve McGowan, Managing Director, Precision Facades Ltd. “It’s been an incredible journey so far for us at Ellis & Co. I can’t believe we’re heading into our third year together but time flies when you’re surrounded by a reliable and efficient team. When we made the decision to switch accountants we were searching for a seamless transition and a valuable partnership and we found exactly what we were looking for with Ellis & Co. Growth, efficiency and unwavering support.” Will Powell, Managing Director and Owner, Powell’s Jewellery You can contact the Ellis & Co team today on 01244 343 504 or email info@ellis-uk.com.

CHAMBER EVENTS

Events Round-Up It has been brilliant to see so many members connect with each other over the past few months! You can view some of the events below:

22nd August – Networking Lunch at Liverpool Football Club

6th September – Round the Table Networking at Theatre Porto

14th September – West Cheshire Women’s Network

20th September – Networking Lunch at Artezzan Restaurant & Bar

26th September – Tour of Penderyn Distillery

3rd October – Round the Table Networking at The Royal Welsh Army Reserve Centre

5th October – Thursday Is The New Friday Networking

10th October – Tour of Topwood

12th October – Networking Lunch at Ramada Plaza Wrexham

Start 2024 the right way! Join us as we welcome in the new year with some great events!

We’re hosting an incredible line up of events in 2024 and members are advised to plan ahead so they don’t miss out on places. Events are on our website until the end of June with more being added all the time.

You can view our upcoming events below and find more information by following the QR code on this page.

For any events enquires please email info@wcnwchamber.org.uk or call 01244 669988.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO BOOK YOUR PLACE!

12th January – Sales Club 2.0

16th January – Round the Table Networking at Delyn Safety

23rd January – Networking Lunch at Llandudno Bay Hotel

2nd February – Networking event and insight into EV ownership at Tesla

8th February – Chinese New Year Lunch at The Slow Boat

28th February 2nd February - Networking event and insight into EV ownership at Tesla

Upcoming Chamber Networking Events 5th March – Round the Table Networking at Venue Cymru

12th March – Liverpool Airport Tour

PATRON FOCUS

Protos Networks achieves ISO 27001 Certification: A Pinnacle in Cyber Security Excellence In today’s digital landscape, safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring robust data security are paramount for organisations across the spectrum. Protos Networks has recently achieved a significant milestone in this challenging arena by obtaining the esteemed ISO 27001 certification. The certification covers the 24/7 Network Operations Centre (NOC) and the 24/7 Security Operations Centre (SOC). It is the first of many certifications the company wants to achieve in the next 12 months.

controls. These measures spanned network security, access control, encryption, and incident response plans, collectively designed to mitigate the risks pinpointed during the assessment phase effectively. Lastly, Protos Networks showcased its dedication to continuous enhancement by instituting ongoing monitoring and improvement mechanisms within its information security management system. This iterative approach ensures the organisation remains agile and responsive to emerging threats, maintaining the highest information security standards.

Understanding ISO 27001

Benefits of ISO 27001 Certification

ISO 27001 is an internationally recognised Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) standard. This certification is a testament to an organisation’s implementation of rigorous security controls and practices, ensuring the protection of sensitive information and data. Attaining ISO 27001 requires meeting stringent requirements, undergoing thorough audits, and maintaining an ongoing commitment to continually improving information security management.

The achievement of the ISO 27001 certification by Protos Networks heralds numerous benefits and substantial impacts for the organisation and its clients. Firstly, the certificate guarantees elevated data security, effectively diminishing the risk of breaches, cyberattacks, and unauthorised access to sensitive information. Secondly, Protos Networks, armed with ISO 27001, is more adept at identifying and mitigating potential threats, reducing the likelihood of security incidents and minimising associated business and reputational risks. Moreover, the certification ensures compliance with data protection and privacy regulations specific to diverse industries and regions, thereby averting the risk of fines and legal complications. Beyond regulatory adherence, ISO 27001 sets Protos Networks apart, showcasing its commitment to the highest cyber security standards. It serves as a pivotal selling point and a valuable asset in marketing. This accomplishment also instils a profound sense of trust in clients, assuring them that their sensitive information is in capable hands, underscoring Protos Networks’ commitment to data security.

Protos Networks’ Journey to ISO 27001 Certification The path to ISO 27001 certification for Protos Networks was a journey marked by the organisation’s dedication to achieving cyber security excellence: Protos Networks’ journey to ISO 27001 certification involved a meticulous process encompassing four key stages. Firstly, a comprehensive risk assessment focused on identifying critical assets and evaluating potential threats and vulnerabilities meticulously. This laid the groundwork for informed decision-making regarding cyber security measures. Subsequently, Protos Networks embarked on developing and documenting information security policies that seamlessly aligned with ISO 27001 requirements. This step aimed at establishing a robust framework for data protection, ensuring compliance with international standards. The third stage entailed the practical implementation of a range of security

Impact on Cyber Security Excellence Protos Networks’ completion of ISO 27001 certification profoundly influences its cyber security services, resulting in several key outcomes. Firstly, the certification instils a heightened confidence in clients who can fully trust

Protos Networks’ security services, validated independently through the rigorous ISO 27001 certification process. This bolsters the organisation’s credibility and assures clients that their cyber security needs are in capable hands. Secondly, the certification propels Protos Networks to remain at the forefront of cyber security practices, ensuring the practical adaptation of security solutions to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities. This commitment to staying ahead of the curve guarantees that clients benefit from cuttingedge and resilient cyber security measures. Thirdly, ISO 27001 certification solidifies Protos Networks’ cyber security industry leader position. Recognising the company’s expertise and strong commitment to security reinforces its position as a trusted authority in safeguarding digital assets. Lastly, the positive impact of ISO 27001 extends beyond Protos Networks to directly influence clients. By adhering to the highest standards of excellence, the certification positively contributes to clients’ cyber security postures, further emphasising Protos Networks’ dedication to delivering unparalleled security solutions. Protos Networks’ achievement of ISO 27001 certification is a significant milestone, enhancing the organisation’s cyber security measures and positively impacting its clients. By adhering to the stringent requirements of this international standard, Protos Networks demonstrates an unwavering dedication to the highest level of information security, solidifying its reputation as a trusted leader in cyber security. This achievement is not merely a certification; it reflects Protos Networks’ enduring commitment to protecting data in an increasingly digital world. “We’re excited to share that Protos Networks has achieved ISO 27001 certification! This is a huge milestone for us and reflects our commitment to providing only the best cyber security services. We would like to thank our incredible team for all their hard work and dedication. This certification guarantees our clients that we’re committed to keeping their digital assets safe and secure. We’re incredibly proud of this achievement.”

Awards celebrate student achievement and create new connections Graduating Master of Business Administration (MBA) students have been recognised for their results, research, forward-thinking, commitment to sustainability, resilience, leadership, potential and the support they have provided to fellow students. The award presentations were held for the first time and combined with the University’s first UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) networking event. The Fund is a Government business support project. The inaugural MBA Awards and Business Networking evening took place in the iconic Churchill building at the University’s Queen’s Park site, this autumn. Staff and students joined with companies from the region to mark the winners’ successes. The event was opened by Chester Business School Dean, Associate Professor Kirstie Simpson, and Claire Brook from headline sponsor, Aaron and Partners Solicitors.

The award winners were: • MBA Student of the Year Award, sponsored by Aaron & Partners Arnold Kho Kai Wei. • Start-up Award, sponsored by Barefoot Coaching - Dimeji Falana, CEO of Edves, the leading Edtech in the emerging market. Teachers, parents, students and school leaders from more than 1,500 schools use the software to automate operations from student enrolment to graduation. • Sustainability Award for the Best Research Paper, sponsored by Oases Habitat Building Limited - Olaniyi Odeleye. • Resilience Award, sponsored by The Bren Project - Womi Awuto. • Leadership Award, sponsored by InPD (In Professional Development) Binu Rani Albert. • Peer-Support Award, sponsored by Grosvenor Hart Homes - Nkechi Ucheya. • One-to-Watch Award, sponsored by Oases Habitat Building Limited Weronika Sroka.

The achievements and innovation of postgraduate students from the University of Chester’s Business School were celebrated at a pioneering awards and networking event.

n University of Chester Master of Business Administration award winners, award sponsors and Business School representatives. Student of the Year Award recipient, Arnold Kho Kai Wei said: “I am honoured to receive this award and I would like to share this with my friends, family, and lecturers who have supported me throughout my MBA journey. Keep going and believing in yourself.” Dr Alex Fenton, Associate Dean, International; Dr Trevor Omoruyi, MBA Director, and Louise Goodman, UKSPF lead at the University, formed the idea for the event. Dr Fenton shared its significance: “Congratulations to all the winners. The evening was a celebration of achievement and another opportunity to open our doors to bring together our outstanding students with the fantastic business community in Chester and Cheshire. “It signalled a first and by combining the awards with our UKSPF event, we really hope that our staff, students and local businesses got a lot out of the evening, and it leads to exciting new opportunities for everyone.” Dr Omoruyi continued: “The event goes beyond recognising graduating MBA students from different countries, for their excellent achievement across the various categories. It was an opportunity to bring our students directly in front of potential employers, and organisations where they can bring about change.

“Some of these businesses across different sectors have signed up to mentor our MBA students. This is so important, knowing that as a business school, we are keen on developing responsible leaders for the future.” Claire Brook, Employment Partner at Aaron and Partners said: “We are proud to sponsor this important evening, celebrating student achievements in the heart of Chester’s business community. Continuous learning and development are at the heart of our firm’s success and we celebrate the MBA programme at the University as it nurtures our region’s next generation business leaders.” Michela Sumner, InPD Head of Operations added: “Driving the change improvement agenda requires strong leaders and courageous conversations and it has been an inspiration to be present with such a capable group, and gain and share insights.” The flagship MBA programme provides students with a firm foundation in core business principles while developing a broad outlook and understanding of the role of business in the world, all informed by the Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) and Sustainable Development Goals.

Sharing research and enhancing learning on Social Enterprise Chester Business School lecturers are sharing their research and enhancing learning on how enterprises can provide innovative solutions to social challenges. The School is at the vanguard of highlighting entrepreneurial endeavours that make a difference to society and the environment, including academics across the Department

of Management researching varied aspects of social enterprise for their doctoral studies, setting up a Social Enterprise Research Group and the group working on a book about social enterprise learning. The research is being fed into lectures including Business Management students taking the Managing Sustainable Business Ventures module, recently being tasked with exploring the United Nation’s Strategic

Development Goals (SDGs). From good health and well-being to affordable and clean energy, the 17 SDGs are an urgent call for action by all countries. Other modules social enterprise is prominent within include at the Business School include the Essentials of Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Thought and Action, and a new postgraduate module, Innovation in Health and Social Care, from January.

YOUNG CHAMBER

Young Chamber sponsors support careers fair at Queen’s Park High School Sponsors of the Young Chamber programme recently helped to provide advice and support to Year 11 students at Queen’s Park High School as the students prepare for the next step of their educational journey and consider their future options whether it be sixth-form, an apprenticeship, college or employment. Each sponsor had their own stall which allowed students to gain useful information and ask inquisitive questions about different industries, including skills requirements, career prospects, further education and potential apprenticeship opportunities. Andrea Watts, Careers & Citizenship Lead at Queen’s Park High, commented: “Our Year 11 Steps to Success Event was designed to allow students, during the school day and with their parents into the evening, to access a wide range of employers from a variety of sectors to find out more about the options, pathways and next steps open to them at post 16.

n Students engage with Young Chamber sponsors, Altimex Ltd and Cheshire West & Chester Council. “We were delighted to have so many fantastic organisations join us! This event is one of two calendared during the academic year to afford parents the opportunity to find out more and enhance their own knowledge and understanding about options and pathways with a view to supporting their child with their next steps.”

Each sponsor had their own stall which allowed students to gain useful information and ask inquisitive questions about different industries

Chester International School Students gain valuable experience during Young Chamber Mock Interview Day The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce’s Young Chamber programme recently helped deliver a mock interview day for sixth-form students at Chester International School.

n Young Chamber sponsor QWEST Services providing a CIS student with the valuable experience of a mock interview.

Thank you to the following Young Chamber Sponsors for helping make these events a great success: 18

their interviewer so that they could leave the day, not only with the experience of an interview but also with an idea of where they can improve before they take part in a real-life interview.

The students were given the opportunity to be interviewed by a representative from one of the six different Young Chamber Sponsors in attendance. The aim of the experience was to give students an idea of what they can expect when making the step from education into the working world. The students also received feedback from

• Altimex Ltd • Cheshire College – South & West • Cheshire West & Chester Council • Chester University • Coleg Cambria

Abbey Peers, Head of Careers at Chester International School, commented: “We are really grateful for the support of the Young Chamber in organising our annual mock interviews for Year 12. Students gained great insight about what employers are looking for, and really useful feedback about the impressions they are making. The students find these events truly valuable in the run up to applying for university, apprenticeships, and careers.”

• Complete Education Solutions • E2E – Integration Limited • Pinestar Ltd • QWEST Services • Wrexham University

YOUNG CHAMBER

Can you support Young Chamber as the 2023-24 academic year kicks off? The support of Young Chamber sponsors in the 2022-23 academic year was fantastic as 38 businesses and over 110 employees gave up a total of 170 business hours to help tackle the local skills gap.

UPCOMING Young Chamber Events

This year, we hope that the programme can

support even more students at schools & colleges across West Cheshire & North Wales. The programme can only do this with your support in helping make events at schools and colleges possible. These events include career talks, interview days and workshops, and are all designed to give students an insight into the world of work and to help them as they start their careers.

We have several events booked across the academic year with Young Chamber schools. Sponsors of the Young Chamber programme can support the events so please get in touch with Jenny or Maria if you are interested by emailing youngchamber@wcwchamber.org.uk.

You can view the upcoming events to the right that sponsors are able to get involved in. If you are not a sponsor of the programme but would like more information, please email youngchamber@wcnwchamber.org.uk.

Welcome to our new Young Chamber Sponsors

Please also get in touch if you want to learn more about becoming a Sponsor of the programme.

Thursday February 1st, 2024

Queens Park High School Careers Fair Time: 2-3pm - 135 Students 4-7pm - Parents & Students An opportunity tp speak to students and parents about your organisation, opportunities e.g. employment, training, apprenticeships etc Market place style stalls with tables & chairs provided.

Get involved with Young Chamber Young Chamber was established to tackle the skills gap that businesses were reporting and to help pupils, at schools and colleges from across the region, develop the necessary skills

to hit the ground running when they leave education. It does this through the running of events at schools and colleges that are part of

the programme. These include career talks, interview days and workshops, all designed to give students an insight into the world of work and to help them as they start their careers.

If you are not a sponsor of the programme but would like more information, please email youngchamber@wcnwchamber.org.uk.

Advertorial

The advantage of a corporate audit for businesses In the business world, a “corporate audit” is essential for ensuring a company is financially strong and follows the rules. But it’s not just about checking boxes – a corporate audit has many advantages that can help a business. Here, Chris Speakman, Audit Director at WR Partners, delves into corporate audits, explaining their significance and highlighting their advantages to businesses. Chris explains, “A corporate audit, at its core, is a meticulous examination of a company’s financial statements and internal controls. Facilitated by a certified third-party firm or an internal audit team, its primary objective is to provide assurances over the precision of financial records, identify potential risks, and ensure adherence to regulatory standards. Small businesses also stand to gain significantly; while certain exemptions may apply based on size, the advantages of a corporate audit transcend mere regulatory compliance, offering an additional layer of financial prudence and credibility, and provide business leaders confidence that their decisions are based on sound financial information. Business leaders are increasingly tapping into the benefits of corporate audits to gain valuable insights beyond just balance sheets. These advantages include:

3. A positive audit report acts as a beacon for investors and creditors. As the business landscape becomes increasingly competitive, the confidence instilled by a clean audit can attract crucial investments, providing the necessary fuel for growth and expansion. Chris Speakman, Audit Director at WR Partners 1. Auditors identify potential threats within organisations, and armed with this information, business leaders can develop robust risk mitigation strategies, safeguarding the company from unforeseen challenges and maintaining a resilient business model. 2. The audit process is not merely about compliance; it’s about operational excellence, which can offer recommendations for improvements that enhance efficiency. From valuation techniques to internal controls, these refinements are vital to stay ahead in today’s competitive environment.

4. By meticulously examining financial records, auditors preserve business integrity, assuring stakeholders that the company’s operations are fraud-free. 5. The audit report is a legal safeguard in times of dispute or regulatory challenges. With documented evidence of compliance and adherence to financial reporting standards, businesses are better positioned to navigate legal complexities, providing a shield against potential legal pitfalls. It’s clear that corporate audits are not just about historical financial data; they lay the groundwork for future success. Audited financial statements are a cornerstone for strategic planning, setting realistic goals, and charting sustainable growth plans. For more information about whether an audit may be valuable for your business, please contact Chris at hello@wrpartners.co.uk or by calling 01606 369000.

If you want to go far, go together. We get it. Running a business right now is hard work. But you don’t have to tackle every challenge alone. Join a trusted and confidential peer group of business leaders to take your business to the next level. Find out more or register your interest at: wrpartners.co.uk/blg WR Partners offer accounting, auditing and business services including; tax advisory and consultancy & payroll. 08000 664 664

WR Partners_Exploration_Half Page_Artwork_12.indd 1

18/10/2023 16:25:43

Getting Started with Helen Almond CEO of Becoming The Great Ltd What’s in a name? The name of my company, "Becoming The Great," is inspired by my childhood habit of signing gifts as "Helen the Great," despite not feeling great myself. The company's mission is to help individuals become the greatest versions of themselves, giving rise to the name "Becoming The Great."

After recovery, it became my mission to create a space that I needed when the world felt dark, to show people there is more than one way to recover. It’s a non-negotiable for me.

Your position? Founder and CEO

About your business? "Becoming The Great" is on a mission to inspire transformation. We offer hope and healing through energy therapies, helping those battling anxiety, depression, and burnout to rediscover their inner strength, resilience, and true potential. We’re like a warm hug in what can feel like a cold world at times.

About you! My background mirrors that of many, growing up in challenging circumstances with parents doing their best. I struggled through school, grappling with dyslexia, often feeling inadequate and bullied. Thankfully, during the dark times a family member's influence, on their journey to become a healer and monk, introduced me to the unseen world that significantly impacts our reality. Something I put to the back of my mind as a teen during struggles when it was the very thing I needed all along to navigate the negativities life can bring when living in impoverished areas. I eventually embarked on a successful 18-year corporate career, finding solace in the titles and achievements. This provided a great distraction from my personal battles with addiction, a toxic marriage, and relationships, which eventually led to a breakdown and burnout five years ago. No perfect makeup, job titles or strong front was going to hide this for long. So, with my eyes wide open for the first time in decades, I realized I had been chasing titles, not happiness. This is when I learned nothing external was ever supposed to reassure me, I was enough for this world it was something I needed to gift to myself.

Why? Returning to energy healing and delving deeper into the realm of my monk teaching from a child. It was no longer just a personal conviction; it was now backed by science.

Helen Almond, CEO at Becoming The Great Ltd After undergoing various therapies and shedding countless tears, I found healing that genuinely worked. I am now on a mission to teach others that there is a path back to wholeness and that's how Becoming The Great was born.

include but are not limited to - woodland meditation days, head and shoulder massages to release stress, group healing sessions and personal 1-2-1 packages.

The light bulb moment!

Seeing clients signed off saying it’s the best thing they have ever done is all the achievement I will ever need.

After recovery, it became my mission to create a space that I needed when the world felt dark, to show people there is more than one way to recover. It’s a nonnegotiable for me.

Who is your ideal client/customer? I specialise in narcissistic relationships, anxiety, and burnout recovery - but the broad spectrum of people that walk through our doors is immense so we can help most people with our 1-2-1 programmes. We now help businesses create bespoke wellness programmes that are backed by a therapist. This helps if the staff become triggered when learning why they think the way they do and should be something that is considered before team talks about wellness. The wellness events are vast and appeal to a wider audience and

Best moment so far?

Biggest challenges? Feeling like an imposter for the first few months but don't we all at the start of a new adventure?

Benefits of the Chamber Start-Up club since you joined? The Chamber has a fantastic personal touch to every individual! I feel privileged to be a part of such a wonderful supportive innovative network.

Lessons learnt…what would you do differently and why? Nothing. If I change anything I would lose a valuable lesson learnt, I embrace it all.

PATRON FOCUS

UK Shared Prosperity Fund Workspace Project The Council launched their UKSPF Business Support Programme on 27th July at a business event hosted by Ellesmere Port based EMS Healthcare Ltd. The programme, which is being delivered until March 2024, is designed to support local businesses to increase productivity by creating the conditions for businesses to start-up, scale-up and innovate and to build a stronger business base which supports our sustainable and inclusive growth objectives. Following a successful workspace pilot as part of the Year 1 UKSPF Business Support Programme, the council has now included our markets in Ellesmere Port, Winsford and Northwich as part of the Year 2 workspace provision. The workspace project is aimed at using a mix of existing workspace to encourage entrepreneurship activity and collaborative space, with wrap around business support, enabling businesses across a variety of sectors to access this opportunity to help them develop and grow, and share good practice, knowledge and networking.

as well as benefiting from expert advice from the market management and site staff. The workspace project will enable eligible businesses to have limited fully funded access in one of our three market locations participating in this project: • Ellesmere Port operates 6 days a week except Wednesday 8-5pm • Winsford operates Monday, Thursday & Saturday 9-4pm • Northwich operates Tuesday, Friday & Saturday 9-4pm

Why a market trader? • Great trading environment for start-up

• Support through 121 diagnostics to

businesses • Indoor market setting with consistent footfall and business owners. • Trading spaces on a permanent or casual basis • Flexible trading hours • Low risk • Low overheads • Short term lease options • Competitive rental fees

Markets have always been part of British heritage and they are quickly becoming one of the most popular, trendy places to shop for niche buys and high-quality products that you won’t find on a regular high street. Markets are a great way to start a new business and provide a trading environment with consistent footfall. Starting a new business is exciting and the market offer gives a platform of security in testing out products in a ready-made customer environment. Becoming a market trader is low cost, low risk way of starting up in business with short term leases and extremely competitive rents available. Trading from the market space enables businesses to be surrounded by experienced, knowledgeable traders with whom you can share ideas and insights,

There is more information about each of the projects, the workspace providers and how to apply on the Let’s Talk Business website. The UKSPF Business Support Programme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, supported by Cheshire West and Chester Council and delivery partners. The UKSPF is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. In addition to the UKSPF main programme, Cheshire West and Chester Council (CW&C) were allocated an additional £0.9m under the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). The rural Plan was approved in April 2023 and is aligned to the main programme, with some small additional capital allocations for rural broadband and business growth. For more information on UK Shared Prosperity visit: https://www.gov.uk/ government/publications/uk-sharedprosperity-fund-prospectus.

The project will provide: help explore the current local business support landscape and access to networking and/or workshops being delivered as part of the wider UKSPF business support programme • Limited fully funded access to one of the workspace locations involved in this project

Sutty N Sweet have opened a stall in Ellesmere Port Market selling a variety of sweets.

Council celebrates its regional win for inclusion The Council has been reaccredited with the prestigious Navajo Merseyside, Cheshire and Manchester LGBTQ+ Chartermark for its commitment to supporting all colleagues and residents, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The Council builds equality into its objectives, making every effort to eliminate discrimination, promote equal opportunities and foster good working relationships between different people. It was first awarded the Navajo Chartermark in 2020. The Chartermark requires extensive evidence, corroborated by two full days of interviews with a wide range of staff, councillors and partners. The assessment covers areas such as policies, procedures and practices, training and engagement with staff and stakeholders. Navajo praised the Council for its honest and open approach, recognising the areas of strength but also where improvements can be made, and remarked on the considerable progress since the previous assessment

PATRON FOCUS

Official opening of Wales’s first Tidal Stream Energy Site The First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, officially opened the substation linked to Morlais tidal energy on Anglesey this week. The event, which is the culmination of more than ten years of work, marks not only a significant milestone for the project itself but for the tidal energy sector in Wales. As part of this week’s Ireland Wales Forum, the First Minister will host the Irish Tánaiste, Micheál Martin TD (Deputy Prime Minister) and showcase the Morlais project as a key tidal stream development in Wales. Morlais, off the west coast of Holy Island, is the largest consented tidal energy scheme in the UK. It is managed by Anglesey-based social enterprise, Menter Môn, who secured the Crown Estate lease for the 35KM2 zone of seabed in 2014. Since then, and having secured consent in 2021, work has been ongoing to put onshore infrastructure in place. The first tidal energy devices are expected to be deployed at sea in 2026. The First Minister said: “Morlais is a groundbreaking project and a key part of our transition to a low carbon economy. It is an example of the type of development that will help Wales reach our net zero targets and underlines the importance of investing in clean energy infrastructure for our future generations.”

The County Council has been supportive of the Morlais project from its inception. The project, once operational, will ensure that the island leads the way in terms of tidal energy contributing to national net zero targets.”

The site’s substation on Holy Island, Anglesey.

Once operational the site has the potential to generate up to 240MW of low-carbon electricity. It is seen as a unique model within the sector – rather than producing electricity itself, Morlais will provide developers of tidal energy devices with the consent and infrastructure they need to supply electricity to the grid. Five developers have already agreed connection within the scheme and discussions with an additional five are at an advanced stage. Gerallt Llewelyn Jones is a director with Morlais and has been at the heart of the project since its inception. He explains: “This is a huge day for us. We have faced many challenges along the way, but thanks to the determination of the team and support from partners and funders we can now look forward to the next phase in the scheme’s development. “As a Menter Môn project, Morlais is rooted in our local community and the broader economic landscape. From day one we’ve been committed to advancing a more sustainable and renewable energy future and today’s achievement reflects our team’s dedication. I’m excited to see our efforts come to fruition as we get closer to generating electricity off the coast of Anglesey.” Councillor Llinos Medi is Leader of the Isle of Anglesey County Council, Portfolio Holder

Economic Development and Lead Member for the Low Carbon Energy Programme on the North Wales Ambition Board. Speaking at the event she said: “The County Council has been supportive of the Morlais project from its inception. The project, once operational, will ensure that the island leads the way in terms of tidal energy contributing to national net zero targets. It will also continue to provide significant local and regional economic benefits by creating jobs, enhancing skills and supply chain opportunities. It is also important to recognise that the Morlais project will be re-investing profits into those local communities that are accommodating the development.” In line with the Menter Môn commitment to secure benefit to the north Wales economy, Ruthin-based Jones Bros Civil Engineering has been responsible for the construction of the substation officially opened by the First Minister. Working with other local companies, they also undertook the cabling work, connecting the scheme to the national grid. The project is funded by the European Regional Development fund through the Welsh Government. The Isle of Anglesey County Council, The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and North Wales Growth Deal have also supported the project.

THE BIG INTERVIEW WCNW: To begin, tell us a little about yourself and your background. I began in the paper industry as a trainee and junior commercial person in 1964 and that activity was as paper mill agent and a paper trader. I was appointed Director and shareholder in the trading business in 1974 being responsible for the importing and sourcing of paper from a variety of overseas mills. In 2009, we became a UK manufacturing business with the acquisition of Kruger’s UK operations in Disley and in Wales. From that initial acquisition, the business really started to become an established player in the UK paper hygiene market. We have since grown organically and through further acquisitions to become the largest British private & familyowned paper hygiene companies in the UK. Northwood is now a group of associated companies that provide the manufacturing, supply and transportation of disposable tissue products. Run by four shareholders, we are building and investing in the latest technology which is at the forefront of NPD in the paper industry. We are nimble in our approach to investment and decision-making, with no constraints by the city or institutional shareholders – we make our own decisions. WCNW: What attracted you to the company? From the early days in a junior commercial role, I have had a passion for paper and tissue product so it was a natural progression to build on this. WCNW: What are your main responsibilities? I am Chairman and founder of the Northwood Group and oversee the strategic direction of the business. I do this with a first-class senior management team which is complemented by my two sons Marc and Adam who are fully immersed in the Group activity and development.

Paul Fecher Chairman

Northwood Group 24

Northwood recently opened a new manufacturing and warehousing site in Ellesmere Port

WCNW: What does a typical day involve? I’m actively involved in the business on a daily basis. In regular contact with the senior management team, I like to think I can offer advice and assist with problem-fixing! WCNW: Who are your target audience and what is the main aim of the organisation? The Northwood business has many facets, including paper procurement, wastepaper recycling, Recycled Hygienic paper parent reel production, we have in the UK three paper mills Disley, Chesterfield and Lancaster we also operate a paper mill in Spain as well as our converting (paper processing) facility in Madrid. The UK converting businesses operate in both the away from home (AfH) and retail consumer sectors. Our AfH route to market is business to business. We deal with several national accounts and independent distributors that service customer in all areas of the market including, education, food service, office supplies, hospitality and the FM sector. Our retail division services virtually all the national High Street grocery stores with Toilet Roll, Kitchen Towel and Tissues. We also serve a number of customers from independent cash and carry outlets to the discount stores which are growing in importance year on year. WCNW: What projects are you currently working on? As part of our strategy to grow our retail division, we have recently invested in a new manufacturing and warehousing site at Ellesmere Port. The site has undergone a significant investment with new machinery and is now fully operational. This site will become our facility of excellence in the production of consumer roll tissue products. We are in the trajectory to invest in excess of £18millon in this plant over the next three years. WCNW: How have things gone so far? In respect to the Ellesmere Port project, we have had some issues to overcome, but these have been managed efficiently by the management team. We have introduced state of the art processing machines which needs specialist skills to

From the early days in a junior commercial role, I have had a passion for paper and tissue product so it was a natural progression to build on this.

operate and we are fortunate that the catchment area in Ellesmere Port is able to provide the skillsets needed and new staff have adapted to the technology, and with tuition they are becoming experts in the production of Toilet Rolls Kitchen Towel to follow. WCNW: Any difficulties? If so, how did you overcome them? Like many other companies, our business has faced difficult challenges in recent years, Brexit, Covid, Ukraine and hyperinflation. We are an energy intensive business, with paper mills that work 24/7 365 days a year, and so we were affected by the rise in energy costs and have worked hard to minimise this impact on our customers. Investments have gone in to minimise the use of fossil fuels and to work towards greener production. WCNW: Looking ahead, what are your main aims for the organisation and how would you like it to develop? We are now one of only a small handful of companies in the UK market that is fully vertically integrated and sells as well as converts parent reels. We also have mill facilities to guarantee supply. Our aim is to be the preferred supply chain partner for key organisations and retailers, involved in the disposable paper and tissue industries.

WCNW: How have businesses and individuals responded to what you’re offering? I believe our customers have reacted very well to our strategy in recent years. We have a very loyal customer base, some of which have been with us for almost 30 years! We pride ourselves on making prompt decisions and responding quickly to customer needs. Our AfH business excels in driving our own value-added brands, some of which, such as our Whisper brand, have become very recognisable in the away from home market. Our retail division excels in delivering own label propositions for many high street grocery chains and we have established many excellent commercial partnerships over many years. As we continue to grow, we will never lose sight of the importance of relationships with our customer base. WCNW: What are your career aims and aspirations? Is there anything else in particular you’d like to achieve in your lifetime? We intend to make one significant, major investment and have already been granted planning permission to install a 100% virgin paper machine with 70,000 tonnes capacity. The group will then become selfsufficient in all parent reel requirements, fully supporting the converting expansion plan.

Our retail division services virtually all the national High Street grocery stores with Toilet Roll, Kitchen Towel and Tissues. We also serve a number of customers from independent cash and carry outlets to the discount stores which are growing in importance year on year. PAUL FECHER

TO SHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS TO KEY DECISION MAKERS IN WEST CHESHIRE AND NORTH WALES CONTACT

Karen Hall Sales Director Tel: 07801 788880 karen@benhampublishing.com

Industrial & Commercial Access Solutions at Height RACS Industrial are work at height specialists, delivering access solutions to you. We serve a broad range of sectors including industrial, commercial construction/property, manufacturing, energy and civil infrastructure. Our core services are delivered via IRATA rope access methods, confined space entry and powered access.

Our services include, but are not limited to: • Mechanical and electrical installations • Removal of redundant assets • Inspection services; NDT, structural and drone assessments • Rigging and lifting • Repairs and remedial work • Confined space entry, monitoring and standby rescue • Installation of third part personal fall protection equipment • Coating and corrosion control • Industrial cleaning • Façade care and maintenance • We are installers of V-Deck underdeck access platforms Visit www.vtsltd.uk for more info Please contact us for more information or would like to discuss a potential or ongoing project.

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www.racs-industrial.co.uk 26

An Insight into

INSIGHT INTO...

Continental Diamond Tool Limited

Building a stronger tomorrow through product diversification and exports Continental Diamond Tool Limited (CDT) is driving success in the region with its advanced manufacturing facility for custom diamond tooling. Located in Kinmel Bay, on the outskirts of Rhyl in North Wales, the company began its journey in 1984. Initially known as Consort Precision Diamond Company, it garnered acclaim for pioneering the innovative reverseplating process, which significantly reduced plating times for its industry. In 2018, it became a subsidiary of Continental Diamond Tool Corporation, expanding its reach, resources, and expertise.

Distinct Offerings and Strengths CDT excels in delivering custom high-quality rotary diamond dressers. Rotary diamond dressers are specialized precision tools used in various industries, primarily in manufacturing, to shape and maintain the abrasive cutting surfaces of grinding wheels. These dressers are essential for ensuring that grinding wheels remain in optimal condition for production grinding applications, providing precise and consistent results during use. The primary function of a rotary diamond dresser is to “dress” or “true” the grinding wheel. This involves correcting for any lost geometry and removing any accumulated metal chips, abrasive debris, and dulling from the wheel’s surface. In addition to cleaning the wheel’s surface, rotary diamond dressers can also be used to profile the grinding wheel into a specific shape or contour, depending on the requirements of the machining process. This profiling ensures that the grinding wheel will produce the desired workpiece geometry.

CDT manufacture custom high-quality rotary diamond dressers “The incredible potential in electroplated grinding wheels has reignited our team’s passion and drive. We are excited to make inroads in this growing industry,” says Troy Giacherio, General Manager of Continental Diamond Tool Limited. Both of these products are useful in applications requiring incredible precision and fine surface finishes. They are vital for many industries such as automotive, aerospace, power generation, medical, and tool making. CDT’s products are custom designed, produced, and delivered worldwide by a tight-knit team of 40 employees, driven by a dedication to excellence and innovation. “We believe in the workforce here, we believe in our people, their work ethic and their can-do spirit, which is really our strength, along with the pride they take in their work,” says Jeff Wirth, Managing Director at Continental Diamond Tool Limited.

Long-Term Relationships

CDT also manufactures electroplated grinding wheels. These tools are made by adhering superabrasive grains like diamond with a layer of nickel metal onto a metal substrate through an electroplating deposition process. With the tough mechanical nickel bond, electroplated wheels have the advantages of faster grinding times and more flexibility to make the complex shapes and geometries needed in a variety of industries. Known for providing precise and controlled grinding, they maintain sharpness throughout their lifespan. Additional savings can be obtained through CDT’s strip and replate services where a used tool is returned to be refurbished like new.

CDT attributes much of its success to its enduring relationships with esteemed clients such as Rolls Royce and AETC Leicester. “We pride ourselves on being adaptable, dependable, and equipped with the in-house know-how that truly cements these lasting partnerships,” says Craig Cox, Sales Manager at CDT. Equally important is the supply chain. CDT relies on a dependable supply chain to ensure a steady flow of materials, components, and equipment for manufacturing. “Our close relationships with suppliers provide the agility we need to respond to changing customer requirements. It is refreshing that we are united with our suppliers in our dedication to the highest quality, which is the very cornerstone of our good name,” says Craig.

Advancements in Modernization In recent years, CDT has focused on international trade, forging long-term relationships with new customers and

distributors overseas. Post-pandemic market competitiveness has driven the company’s pursuit of exports and product diversification. To stay competitive, CDT has made significant facility upgrades with advanced electroplating technology, which came on line in the second quarter of 2023. Thanks to the Smart Cymru project, a Welsh Government Innovation Support initiative, this investment has enabled a significant capacity boost at CDT in the form of its new product line: electroplated grinding wheels.

Maintaining Reputation Through Training and Development As part of its commitment to excellence, CDT has invested in personnel development to ensure its employees remain up-to-date with industry dynamics. Participation in the LEAN Programme has allowed CDT to enhance its processes through LEAN management principles. “It was an honor to learn from some of the best in the industry,” says Justin Hughes, CDT Production Manager who attended the programme. “It has been a great opportunity for us to improve our productivity and competitiveness.”

Recent Successes In recognition of its commitment to growth, CDT has received several awards, including the West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce (WCNWC) Export and International Trade Award in 2021. They were a Regional Winner in the ‘Global Player – Export Business of the Year’ category at the National British Chamber of Commerce Awards in 2022. In 2023, CDT was nominated in three esteemed categories by WCNWC: Export & International Trade, Business Growth, and Business of the Year. Jeff Wirth concludes, “Our focus remains on sustained market growth, expanding our customer base, investing in new technology, and exploring new opportunities. We look forward to bringing continued success to North Wales.”

RECOGNITION AWARDS

Winners Announced at Annual Ball & Recognition Awards 2023 It was another incredible night at Chester Racecourse on Friday 17th November as the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce welcomed over 350 guests to its circus-themed Annual Ball & Recognition Awards. The event, headline sponsored by Equals Money, provided an opportunity for Chamber of Commerce members to unite and reflect on their achievements over the past year. The evening began with guests enjoying arrival drinks at the Champagne Bar all while being serenaded by a live acoustic performance from Anthony Kluge, the lead singer of Skynights, the evening’s featured live band. Once the guests had taken their seats, Debbie Bryce, the Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Commerce, offered a warm welcome and kickstarted the evening’s proceedings. Debbie then introduced the evening’s host, Sian Lloyd, a well-versed journalist and broadcaster recognized across the UK for her work on national programs, such as BBC Breakfast, BBC Crimewatch Roadshow, and Panorama. Sian, who grew up in Wrexham and is fluent in Welsh, frequently presents programs on S4C.

Sian proceeded to introduce Helen Nellist, the Chair of the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, who extended her thanks to the Headline Sponsors for the evening, Equals Money, and shed light on the chosen charity, Hospice of the Good Shepherd. The spotlight then shifted back to Sian, who officially commenced the awards ceremony. This year attracted a record number of entries in the 10 categories, with finalists having been determined before the event. The winners of each award can be found on the next page! After the awards ceremony concluded, a raffle and auction were held to generate funds for The Hospice of the Good Shepherd. The guests further showed their support for the charity by buying themed rubber ducks for another raffle where the lucky winner took home a Beaverbrooks diamond pendant. The charity provides specialist care to people living within Deeside, Ellesmere Port and West Cheshire, who are living with an end-of-life diagnosis for both cancer and non-cancer illness. £7000 was raised for this amazing cause. Debbie Bryce expressed, “Tonight’s awards allowed us to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of our members. With a record number of

entries this year, our judges faced the demanding task of selecting finalists and winners. I extend my gratitude to all our members who took the time to submit entries; the quality of the nominations was truly exceptional. Congratulations to our winners, and heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors whose support makes events like this possible!” There was fun to be had after the awards ceremony with a game of pass the parcel taking place alongside entertainment provided with a photo booth and coconut shy! Guests then hit the dancefloor to hear from Skynights, the live band for the evening. Debbie continued “Thank you to all those who donated prizes for the raffle and auction and to the guest on the evening for showing such support for this brilliant charity. Your generosity will have an incredible impact on the lives of people in the local area.” “It has been another fantastic night with so many people coming together to celebrate what it means to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce. Thank you Thank you to everyone one for attending and making it such a memorable occasion!” to everyone one for attending and making it such a memorable occasion!”

Thank you to all the businesses below that donated prizes to our raffle and auction! • Artezzan Restaurant & Bar

• Grovesnor Hart Homes

• P&A Group

• Atherton & Associates Wealth Management Ltd

• Icon Sports Wales

• Paradise Island Adventure Golf

• Carden Park Hotel

• iPET Network Ltd

• Penderyn Distillery

• Charity Bank

• Kirsty Craig Associates

• PR Lift Equipment

• Cheshire FA

• Knew Productions

• Radar PR

• Chester FC

• Pendergast’s Steakhouse & Bar

• R‑EV Power And Solar Ltd

• Chester Racecourse

• Laura Anne Hospitality Consultant Ltd

• Rhug Organic & Natural Ltd

• Designweb DMA Ltd

• Lavinia Stamps

• The Fencing Bloke Ltd

• Eden Rainsford Retail Partnerships Ltd

• Liverpool John Lennon Airport

• The HR Dept Wrexham & Chester

• Ellis & Co Chartered Accountants and

• Moxy Chester

• The Littler Places Art

• NMS Recruit

• Type on Data

• FI Real Estate Management

• North Light

• Venue Cymru

• Gallagher Insurance Brokers

• Not Just Travel Anne Keen

• Village Hotel Chester St David’s

Business Advisers

A huge thank you to Gavin J Priest for taking the amazing pictures on the evening!

RECOGNITION AWARDS

View the winners of our Annual Recognition Awards 2023 below!

Chris McLoughlin, Bathgate Business Finance (L), presented the Young Chamber Award to Christleton High School

Karen Thompson, Wurkplace (L), presented the Made a Difference Award to Groundwork North Wales

Darren Kewley, Protos Networks (L), presented Digital Innovation Award to Helukabel (UK) Limited

Ashley Salisbury, Equals Money (L), presented the Equals Money Award for Export and Internatio nal Trade to Lavinia Stamps

Niamh Kelly, HR Department Wrexham and Chester (L), presented the Young Person Award to Georgina Slawinkski and Melissa Ellis

Debbie Bryce, WCNW Chamber (R), presented the Start-Up Business of the Year Award to Let’s Farm

Simon Povey, Topwood Ltd (L), presented the Customer Excellence Award to Liverpool John Lennon Airport

Fran Johnson, WR Partners (L), presented the Excellence in Sustainability Award to Llandudno Bay Hotel

Sarah Bailey, Natwest (L), presented the Business Growth Award to Brownlow Furniture

John Farrell, Ellis & Co (L), presented the Business of the Year Award to Protos Networks

Awards Finalists & Winners The Equals Money Award for Export & International Trade Sponsored by Equals Money

This award recognises the strength of exporters in West Cheshire & North Wales. Entrants for this award must stand out from the crowd on the international stage and demonstrate that they have generated significant and/or sustained increases in their export activity. Congratulations to our finalists: • Continental Diamond Tool Limited • Lavinia Stamps Ltd • Less Common Metals

Congratulations to our winner:

Lavinia Stamps Ltd

Young Chamber Award Sponsored by Bathgate Business Finance

As we bring the education and businesses closer through our Young Chamber programme, the achievements of one of our Young Chamber schools or colleges over the previous year has been recognised.

Congratulations to our winner:

Christleton High School

Young Person/Apprentice of the Year Award Sponsored by

The HR Dept Wrexham and Chester This award highlighted the exceptional contribution of a young person or an apprentice, aged 25 or under, to the success and growth of a business based in West Cheshire and North Wales. Congratulations to our finalists: • Georgina Slawinski – Chester Football Club • Megan Broughton – Countess of Chester Hospital • Melissa Ellis – HL Financial Ltd

Congratulations to our winners:

Melissa Ellis – HL Financial Ltd & Georgina Slawinski – Chester FC

Congratulations to our Finalists: • Laura Anne Hospitality Consultant Ltd • Let’s Farm • Sales Geek North Wales Ltd • The Littler Places Art

Congratulations to our Winner:

Let’s Farm

Congratulations to our Winner:

Llandudno Bay Hotel

Digital Innovation Award Sponsored by Protos Networks

Made a Difference Award Sponsored by Wurkplace

This award recognises a business, or one of their employees, that have made a difference to the social well-being of their local community. This could be through volunteer and charity work or by any means where the business or employee has gone above and beyond to support their community. Congratulations to our finalists: • Cheshire FA • Groundwork North Wales • Isla Grace Mortgages • Tiger Trailers

Congratulations to our Winner:

Groundwork North Wales

Customer Excellence Award Sponsored by Topwood Ltd

Recognising organisations with a focus on customer service and care, this award has been designed for businesses that can demonstrate excellence and commitment in the ever-important area of customer service. Congratulations to our finalists: • Artezzan Restaurant & Bar • Broughton Shopping Park • Liverpool John Lennon Airport • Tours Around Chester

Congratulations to our Winner:

Liverpool John Lennon Airport

Excellence in Sustainability Award

Start-Up Business of the Year Award

Sponsored by FI Real Estate Management

This award recognises businesses that are leading the way to a low carbon, low waste and sustainable future.

This award was open to businesses that have been trading for less than 2 years and seeks to recognise the determination and hard work of entrepreneurs across West Cheshire & North Wales.

• Llandudno Bay Hotel • University of Chester

Congratulations to our finalists: • Cheshire College South and West • Less Common Metals

Recognising organisations with a focus on digital innovation, this award was designed for businesses that could demonstrate that they embraced digitisation and have used technology to increase their profitability. Congratulations to our Finalists: • Complete Education Solutions • ePay Merchant Services • Helukabel (UK) Limited

Congratulations to our Winner:

Helukabel (UK) Limited

Business Growth Award Sponsored by NatWest Business Banking

This award recognises those that have experienced exceptional growth in sales, profit, market share, jobs or international trade. Judges looked for an organisation that can demonstrate the highest levels of growth with a strong plan for sustainable financial performance. Congratulations to our finalists: • Brownlow Furniture • Continental Diamond Tool Limited • Cyd Innovation

Congratulations to our Winner:

Brownlow Furniture

Business of the Year Award Sponsored by Ellis & Co Chartered

Accountants and Business Advisers This is the premier award for businesses in West Cheshire & North Wales and was open to companies of any size, working in any commercial or industrial sector. Congratulations to our finalists: • Continental Diamond Tool Limited • Knew Productions • Protos Networks • Rawson EV-Power & Solar

Congratulations to our Winner:

Protos Networks 31

G WA I T H T E G G I TRHU T E G I WA GYM WA IW TRHO TE G IG GIYRM UR F A K IF GIR YRM RO ULREKS W FA O WA W OLREKS FA OIRR WA F O R WA L E S

Mae pawb ohonom eisiau gweithio mewn lleoedd sy’nohonom cefnogieisiau ac yn gweithio hyrwyddomewn pobl Mae pawb o bob cefndir, yn ein ac trinynynhyrwyddo deg ac ynpobl lleoedd sy’n cefnogi Mae pawb ohonom eisiau gweithio mewn rhoi ymdeimlad werthfawrogiad ni. o bob cefndir, ynoein trin yn deg aci yn lleoedd sy’n cefnogi ac yn hyrwyddo pobl rhoi ymdeimlad o werthfawrogiad i ni. Mae Busnes Cymru wedi datblygu o bob cefndir, yn ein trin yn deg ac yn adnoddau fel eich un chi Mae Busnesi helpu Cymru wedi datblygu rhoi ymdeimlad obusnesau werthfawrogiad i ni. iadnoddau greu gweithle sy’nbusnesau hybu cydraddoldeb, yn i helpu fel eich un chi Mae Busnes Cymru wedi datblygu lleihau tlodi, acsy’n yn gwella llesiant cyffredinol. i greu gweithle hybu cydraddoldeb, yn adnoddau i helpu busnesau fel eich un chi lleihau tlodi, ac yn gwella llesiant cyffredinol. Mae Cymru yma cydraddoldeb, i’ch helpu gydayn i greuBusnes gweithle sy’n hybu chanllawiau gwybodaeth ac helpu adnoddau, Mae Busnes Cymru yma i’ch gyda lleihau tlodi, ac yn gwella llesiant cyffredinol. fel y gallwch ddechrau gwneud newidiadau chanllawiau gwybodaeth ac adnoddau, Mae Busnes Cymru ymagwneud i’chGwaith helpu gyda heddiw i ddod yn gyflogwr Teg. fel y gallwch ddechrau newidiadau chanllawiau gwybodaeth ac adnoddau, heddiw i ddod yn gyflogwr Gwaith Teg. fel y gallwch ddechrau gwneud newidiadau heddiw i ddod yn gyflogwr Gwaith Teg.

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We all want to work in places that supports andtopromotes peoplethat from all We all want work in places different backgrounds, fairly supports and promotes treats peopleusfrom all We all want to work in places that and where we feel valued. different backgrounds, treats us fairly supports and promotes people from all and where we feel valued. Embracing Fair Work not only us fosters different backgrounds, treats fairly a positive workplace culture, but it Embracing Fairfeel Work not only fosters and where we valued. also fuels productivity and contributes a positive workplace culture, but it Embracing Fair Work not only fosters to the growth of the Welsh economy. also fuels productivity and contributes a positive workplace culture, but it to the growth ofisthe Welsh economy. Business Wales here to support you also fuels productivity and contributes with and resource guides, Business Walesofisthe here to support you so to theinformation growth Welsh economy. that can startand making changes today with you information resource guides, so Business Wales is here to support you to become a Fair Work employer. that you can start making changes today with information resource guides, so to become a Fair and Work employer. that you can start making changes today to become a Fair Work employer.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

International Trade Forum returns to support more local exporters & importers! The West Cheshire & North Wales International Trade Forum returned on October 11th as attendees were welcomed to Wrexham University. Kindly sponsored by Equals Money, this edition took a look into Money Management Solutions in International Trade! During this insightful & interactive session, our expert panel of speakers explored the challenges that businesses face when financing their imports/exports and looked at the ways in which these challenges can be minimised whilst maximising profits. We also took a look at ways in which businesses can access financial support when trading internationally. Hayley Gray, Export Documentation Manager/Customs Agent at the WCNW Chamber of Commerce, said: “It has been fantastic to hear such positive feedback from local importers & exporters who benefitted greatly from October’s International Trade Forum, our fantastic panel of speakers provided attendees with a whole host of expert knowledge and advice, and we hope that attendees are able to implement this into their active international trade deals.” Richard Taylor, Director at Mouse Design Ltd, commented following the forum: “The International Trade Forum was a great event. It offered us valuable insights into the intricate world of exporting and helped us establish a strong support network. I would highly recommend it, for those venturing into global business.” Thank you to our panel of speakers: Ashley Salisbury from Equals Money, Becky Stark from Stark Export Focus; and Kevin Ledwith from UK Export Finance. We’d also like to extend a special thank you to Equals Money for helping to make this event possible by kindly sponsoring & supporting the event.

Attendees take a look at international trade risk factors with Becky Stark, Director of Stark Export Focus.

Get the international trade support you need in 2024! We offer a range of support to businesses that trade internationally including our British Chamber of Commerce accredited International Trade Training Courses which run twice a year and give delegates a clear understanding of the key areas that underpin the world of International Trade.

• 17th January: Hot Topic: Headlines for 2024.

We are also delighted to announce two new dates for our International Trade Hot Topic briefings, these one-hour online sessions cover current hot topics from the world of international trade and feature expert guest speakers, giving you the chance to improve your trade knowledge and ask the questions that your business needs to know!

• 6th March: BCC Export Documentation.

View our upcoming training courses and hot topic dates to the right:

• 28th May: BCC Customs Special Procedures.

• 25th January: BCC Introduction to the Export Process. • 13th February: BCC Incoterms ® 2020 Rules. • 28th February: BCC Understanding Commodity Codes. • 20th March: BCC Introduction to Import. • 10th April: BCC Methods of Payment and Letters of Credit. • 17th April: Hot Topic: Net Zero for International Trade. • 24th April: BCC Customs Procedures and Documentation. • 5th June: BCC Understanding Rules of Origin

Visit our website or email internationaltrade@wcnwchamber.org.uk to find out more.

24 HOURS WITH

24 Hours with Complete Education Solutions A brief overview of your role and company I am Jamie Cooper, the Operations Manager here at Complete Education Solutions. We are a relatively new and rapidly growing software provider for the education and childcare sectors. Our main two products, designed, built and sold by us are;

iPAL a booking, payment and management software for children’s clubs, schools and sports clubs. iPEP a PE lesson planning and assessment tool to provide every primary school teacher with the tools to teach PE lessons to a specialist standard. My role as Operations Manager isn’t your standard role, as being part of a start-up business your roles are always a lot more diverse than average, which for me, is one of the biggest attractions to working here. I can go from discussing new software feature layouts one minute to helping train up a customer who can’t understand the system the next. This we see as a major advantage for us as it means we can improve our software from genuine customer feedback (meaning we don’t just update things and move everything about like Facebook!).

Can you tell us a short overview of an average day at work? It would be a well-used trope to say that there is no such thing as an average day at work with us but it’s true, the saying “every day is a school day” sums up your average day at Complete Education Solutions. Due to the nature of the childcare industry and government budgets for schools, our software has to be flexible and adaptable to each change that gets thrown our way. Little things that most people won’t pay a second thought to, we need to be aware of and update before the thousands of parents using the system spot. The latest example of this is the Universal Credit changes meant that we needed to completely redesign the information on our invoices to ensure these would be accepted by every local council in the UK.

Jamie Cooper, Operations Manager at Complete Education Solutions

How has the company grown in recent years? Since Covid, we have seen a huge increase in sales and subsequently, we’ve been able to see all our customers growing. We pride ourselves on supporting our customer’s growth as the larger they get the better it is for us. As a result, since 2021 we’ve gone from four full-time staff to 10 with our own in-house team of developers working on upgrading the system on a daily basis.

Have you faced any particular challenges recently? Our biggest challenge is recruitment, we have resorted to directly hiring developers outside the UK to ensure that we have people with the skills we need. Until schools in the UK see technology jobs as the future and start teaching children the basics at high school, the salaries for these roles will remain unaffordable for most SMEs.

What are your plans for the future? Within the next 12 months, our plans focus on targeting new markets to help ensure our resilience against any economic shocks. We

Since Covid, we have seen a huge increase in sales and subsequently, we’ve been able to see all our customers growing. We pride ourselves on supporting our customer’s growth as the larger they get the better it is for us. will soon be launching an upgrade to iPAL to allow nurseries to use it more effectively reducing their admin around the government funded places. We’re in the process of auditing and upgrading our PE software to ensure that it includes accessibility tips for children with SEND and new lessons like Quidditch and Olympic modules. Our longterm plan is to branch out into the pet care industry providing them a digital solution instead of relying on the old paper diaries they currently use. So, pet owners can book their cats and dogs into kennels themselves with the certainty that a place will definitely be there when they need it.

If there was an extra hour in the day, how would you spend it? With an extra hour a day, I’d spend it on learning more about CSS and React.js to allow me to have a better understanding of a lot of general developer conversations and to be able to offer more practical help and quick fixes on UI / UX designs and the limitations and possibilities to help find solutions to customers suggestions for software upgrades.

High-Quality, Contemporary & Flexible co-working spaces Building upon the recent launch of Grosvenor Hart Homes, we would like to introduce Grosvenor Hart Hub; a high-quality, contemporary, flexible co-working space in the centre of Chester. Users can collaborate, network, and innovate alongside a growing social enterprise. With singular or grouped desks, quiet pods, and meeting rooms of varying sizes we are keen to create a community of like-minded people, businesses and organisations working alongside each other at our Hub. By choosing these premises, users will not only find a dynamic and inspiring environment from which to work but will also help support a social enterprise looking to improve the life chances of vulnerable children, young people, and their families. Organisations matching our vision will be able to benefit from discounted rates, as well as the opportunity to join us in contributing to the long-term success of our tenants. We are starting a business incubator in 2024. If you would like help from an expert panel to get your new business idea off the ground, contact us to express your interest or find out more – workspace@grosvenorhart.com

Best workspace I’ve come across, and I visited quite a few before choosing Grosvenor Hart Hub. The staff are really helpful and friendly. The space has everything I need, including extra monitors & a great feel to the office, with some cool decor. With competitive pricing and free taster sessions available, contact us to find out more or visit our website by scanning the QR code, visiting

www.grosvenor.com/harthub or email workspace@grosvenorhart.com

Advertorial

Cheshire Geoenergy Observatory gears up for debut The UK Geoenergy Observatory in Cheshire is nearing completion; drilling has been completed and the surface infrastructure is now being installed. The Cheshire Observatory, located in the University of Chester’s Thornton Science Park, will provide scientists with at-scale test facilities that can be used to optimise and de-risk a range of subsurface energy technologies, including geothermal energy. It is part of the £31 million UK Geoenergy Observatories project, led by the British Geological Survey (BGS), which has also

Surface infrastructure being installed at the Observatory

delivered an observatory in Glasgow for the investigation of mine-water heat and a core scanning facility at BGS Keyworth. Construction has been in progress since July 2022, informed by technical advisors Ramboll and led by AECOM as principal contractor. With the construction phase coming to a close the observatory is set for an official opening in spring 2024.

3D mapping of heat and fluid flow A closely spaced array of 21 boreholes has been drilled to enable researchers to map thermal transport through the Observatory rock volume. The close spacing of the boreholes ensures that heat and fluid flow can be related to specific geological features such as faults, fractures, pebble beds and sandstone permeability. Ground truth is provided by over 1000m of drill core and geophysical wireline log data,

and a dense array of sensors has been installed to monitor temperature and rock properties in close to real time. Installation of the borehole array involved 10 months of drilling within a 36 x 36m area and to a depth of 100m. This necessitated very careful planning and close monitoring of borehole verticality. Data from borehole monitoring systems activated during the construction phase has highlighted important flow paths within the aquifer, which will be key targets for transport research in the operational phase. Open fractures in the sandstone created interesting challenges for the drilling team as they worked out how to avoid modifying them by enlarging them, clogging them with sediment or allowing grout to migrate along them. Reports detailing the design and construction of the Cheshire Observatory, together with during-drilling monitoring and commissioning datasets will be shared openly online in due course.

Spotlight on microbiology In order to provide a snapshot of life in the rock of the Cheshire Observatory BGS microbiologists took samples from the boreholes and the recovered cores. The samples taken will provide information on life in the subsurface and how the microbial community changes within a relatively small volume of rock — something we know very little about. It also gives us a ‘starting point’ to compare the microbiology after experiments, such as heating and cooling of the aquifer, have taken place at the Observatory. The most important thing to be learnt from this study is whether changes in the microbiology could have an effect on activities planned in the subsurface. Perhaps the microbes are beneficial and can be used to intentionally produce methane or help seal fractures? Or could they change the chemistry of the groundwater or the physical properties of the rock, which could result in clogging of flow paths, corrosion of metal infrastructure or the production of unwanted gases such as hydrogen sulphide? Any of these things could cause problems for industries such as storage of hydrogen, geothermal energy or nuclear waste disposal. Therefore, understanding the microbiology could be valuable in improving the effectiveness of these technologies.

Developing surface infrastructure

Installation of multi-sensor monitoring well

With drilling activities complete, focus has shifted to installing the surface infrastructure that will enable the site to operate. Data from over 1800m of fibre optic cable and 1500 individual sensors is being channelled to an on-site data centre which will host network servers and sensor driver and monitoring systems. This is designed to facilitate big-data approaches to the analysis of the high volume, multi-system data that the Observatory will generate. Subsurface heating, cooling and groundwater circulation systems will be controlled via a building management system in the site plant room. Work on the plant room and data centre is progressing well together with work on concrete plinths around the boreholes and wellhead cabinets. Additionally, a galvanised steel gantry has been built to accommodate the large volume of pipes and cables.

Final steps to delivery The Cheshire Observatory is a complex, at-scale research facility that will soon be open to provide scientists, researchers and developers with the data that will help derisk geoenergy technology. It will support the development of one of the most comprehensive datasets in the world on the geological environment, with data free and open to the public, public bodies, researchers and industry. “The Cheshire borehole infrastructure is complete and development of the surface control and monitoring systems is well underway. In the new year we will begin full-scale testing of the control and monitoring systems with a view to first use

of the Observatory in Spring 2024. Findings from the testing of individual systems has highlighted the wealth of science and innovation opportunities that will soon be available to the research and innovation community.” Dr Mike Spence, Director of Science, UK Geoenergy Observatories

The observatory will be available to the whole of the UK science community for research, innovation and training activities. It will operate in the same way as the Natural Environment Research Council’s other services and facilities. Research studies funded through any source are welcome, including outside UKRI and industry-led research.

The Cheshire Observatory is a complex, at-scale research facility that will soon be open to provide scientists, researchers and developers with the data that will help de-risk geoenergy technology.

To find out more about the Cheshire Observatory, visit www.ukgeos.ac.uk or contact ukgeosenquiries@bgs.ac.uk.

Advertorial

Why Net Zero for the SME? It is now universally accepted that net zero is much more than just a passing trend. Rather, it is a crucial lever for driving urgently needed climate action and preventing the worst effects of climate change. From running our business to heating our homes, all activity that burns fossil fuels releases greenhouses gases that increase global temperatures. In 2019 UK Government amended the Climate Change Act to commit the UK to achieve net zero by 2050. Ramping up a previous 80% reduction by 2025 to 100% reduction in emissions by 2050. Extreme weather incidents and reporting of record temperatures has escalated sustainability to the top of the agenda. There is a compelling opportunity for SMEs who make up 95% of all firms globally, to collectively make a huge impact on sustainability. 47% of leaders want to make an impact but are confused as to where to begin, 77% of small firms don’t know how to measure their carbon emissions and weave this into a wider Corporate Social Responsibility strategy. With increasing pressure on small businesses to respond to a range of daily pressures including inflation, supply chain risks and a tight labour market, there are of course further challenges to dedicate time and resources to achieving net zero, but it is essential that we do so. So why is building a net zero strategy good for business and the planet?

Be ready for the change Being proactive now can enhance long term resilience for the inevitable acceleration of evolving requirements for businesses.

Customer Demand Companies will be impacted as larger clients begin to scrutinise their supply chain. Customers are likely to prioritise suppliers that align to their sustainability objectives and share their values. Being proactive future proofs your profitability, protecting your existing customer base and ensuring you are in an optimal position to build new pipeline.

Access to Funding Funding and grant initiatives are available to organisations that are actively working

towards reducing their carbon footprint. SMEs that have a clear strategy and are working to achieve targets set within an action plan are well positioned to access grants and investment provided by both the Welsh Government and UK Government who have set aside £5billion for UK businesses to become greener.

Cost Savings

Building a sustainability strategy can help SMEs save costs while driving efficiencies, improving the bottom line. Taking practical steps in reducing carbon footprint by reducing energy, water consumption and adopting recycling practices can drive efficiencies. Building sustainability into every action and decision supports growth and profitability without mitigating your impact on the planet.

Talent Attraction and Retention Employees who are connected with their place of work are more inclined to stay with their employer, 80% of Gen Z job seekers want opportunities that better align to their interests and values and 40% of millennials have taken a job with a company because of the company’s sustainability practices.

Procurement All companies and organisations who apply for government contracts including NHS, local councils and MOD will need to demonstrate their alignment with net zero policies. SMEs are often under tremendous pressure to meet deadlines and contractual requirements and often have little time to focus on wider strategic issues. We can help you to keep a focus on what needs to be done immediately and how issues can be tackled with practical solutions. We can monitor your progress and support the positive promotion of your achievements. In conclusion starting on a pathway to reducing your carbon footprint doesn’t need to be complicated. Through a process of awareness, engagement and action our experts at Pathway to Carbon Zero will guide

The pathway to carbon zero approach, whilst being good for the planet also provides tangible business benefits for SMEs including reducing costs, improving brand recognition, investment opportunities and competitive differentiation. you and your business through a systematic process to establish your carbon footprint and achieve your carbon reduction ambitions, whilst developing valuable relationships with your suppliers, customers and staff, helping you and your business to be more ethical, sustainable and competitive in an environment where taking action to respond to the climate emergency is a key business outcome. The pathway to carbon zero approach, whilst being good for the planet also provides tangible business benefits for SMEs including reducing costs, improving brand recognition, investment opportunities and competitive differentiation. At Pathway to Carbon Zero, we have over 25 years experience supporting SMEs with their sustainability initiatives including waste minimisation, energy management and product life cycle projects. Experienced in Scope1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions we can provide you with the tools and resources to deliver an achievable strategy and action plan. Toni Bailey (BSc Environmental Science) Director, Pathway to Carbon Zero Ltd. Email: tonibailey@pathwaytocz.com Contact: 07960 534016

BCC Quarterly Economic Survey:

ECONOMY

Investment flatlining as interest rate fears climb

• Just two fifths of UK firms (41%) now expect their prices to increase in the next three months, down from 55% in Q1. • Labour costs are the biggest driver of price rises, across most sectors, cited by 66% of all businesses. • Domestic sales, cashflow, turnover and profitability indicators are stable but remain at a low level. • Business investment continues its long-term flatlining trend with only 23% seeing an increase, as the percentage of firms worried about interest rates rises to 45%. The BCC’s Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) for Q3 2023 shows the percentage of firms expecting to raise prices in the next three months has fallen for the fifth consecutive quarter. The data also reveals that for the second quarter running the main factor for increasing costs is coming from wages. The survey, by the BCC’s Insights Unit, of over 5,000 firms – 91% of whom are SMEs – also reveals business performance across different sectors varies considerably. The research took place between 21 August and 14 September before the Bank of England decided to hold the interest rate at 5.25%. Respondents were split into 28% manufacturing and 72% services industries, with 48% exporting. Labour costs are now the number one cost pressure for businesses. Concerns around wage costs was the biggest pressure for most firms for the second quarter running, although the percentage worried has dropped from 68% in Q2 to 66% in Q3. However, worries about utility prices fell even further from 63% to 59%, creating clear water with wage costs as the number one issue.

But there remain wide sectoral differences with manufacturers citing wages (68%), raw materials (65%) and utilities (65%) in a three-way tie as main factors driving price increases. While in hospitality, 81% of firms were most worried about utility costs, with wages in second place at 74%. The retail sector was least worried about labour costs, with 52% citing it as an issue, against 59% flagging utilities and 58% raw materials. Responding to the findings, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, Shevaun Haviland, said: “Our research shows that business confidence has stabilised at much healthier levels following a rocky end to 2022. But the economic warning lights are still flashing. “Firms are increasingly worried about interest rates, and while inflation concerns are falling, persistent wage pressures show we need a greater focus on relieving the UK’s tight labour market. “With manufacturing lagging behind services, and low rates of investment across the board, especially in the hospitality sector, it is clear more needs to be done to spur growth.”

Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, Shevaun Haviland

Our research shows that business confidence has stabilised at much healthier levels following a rocky end to 2022. But the economic warning lights are still flashing.

Business confidence high despite tough trading conditions The latest Quarterly Business Report from the WCNW Chamber of Commerce, published in partnership with Chester West & Chester Council, reveals that while there are some positives to take from this quarters responses, three years of economic shocks, higher inflation and interest rates, skills shortages and geopolitical tensions, continue to impact business confidence and output. Consequently, most SMEs report no increase in their investment plans.

Key Findings

• Recruitment difficulties fell to a two-year low showing signs that the labour market is continuing to ease.

“While the recovery in business confidence provides a brighter spot, this needs to be reinforced with a clear plan from Government on long-term investment and direction from the Bank of England on the future path of interest rates.

For Q3’23, the Chamber Quarterly Business Report received 66 responses from businesses in West Cheshire and North Wales representing over 6750 employees. 14% of the businesses that responded were from the manufacturing sector whilst the remaining 86% came from the services sector. The fieldwork for this survey took place between 21st August and 11th September 2023.

• Despite a fall over the last three quarters, inflation remains the key concern for businesses and has been the top reported concern for the last seven quarters.

“The results of the QBR also point to tough trading conditions for many firms as inflation, labour shortages, global trade barriers, and interest rate rises continue to bite.

• Labour costs continued to be the biggest pressure on prices.

“After the disappointment of HS2, firms want to see clear signals from Government to encourage investment. This means putting in place a five-year rolling guarantee on the full expensing tax allowance to give business some much needed certainty.”

• Business Confidence in turnover growth rose to the highest level on record. • Improvement in confidence has yet to translate into a notable rise in investment plans for training and plant/machinery. • Export Sales increased to the second highest point since the first quarter of 2019.

Debbie Bryce, Chief Executive Officer of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, commented:

“This quarter’s results show some positive signs for the region with business confidence in turnover rising to a record high. Despite this, confidence has yet to feed through to business investment, which is put down mainly to fears of interest rates climbing further.

WHAT WE’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT

St John Ambulance Cymru St John Ambulance Cymru are passionate about saving lives and enhancing the health and wellbeing in the communities of Wales. An estimated 17 million working days were lost due to work-related stress, depression, or anxiety in 2021-2022. This time of year can be especially difficult for many, so having mental health first aiders in your workplace and the wider community is more important than ever. St John Ambulance Cymru wants as many people as possible to learn both physical and mental health first aid techniques, as they can mean the difference between a life saved and a life lost. St John Ambulance Cymru understands that mental health and wellbeing are just as important as physical health. With a goal to have first aid available for everyone – anytime, anywhere, the charity is committed to making Wales a safer place for everyone. St John Ambulance Cymru is leading the way with an innovative range of workplace first aid courses and is always adapting its services to best serve the people of Wales. Not only are traditional first aid techniques taught to the highest standard, but the charity is also passionate about delivering quality mental health first aid training. Mental Health First Aid and Mental Health Awareness courses arm people with the skills and knowledge required to help a work colleague, and also to protect a loved one in their time of need. Individuals are trained to recognise the symptoms of a mental health crisis and learn about depression, psychosis, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts and behaviours, panic attacks and so much more. Delegates gain the confidence to approach somebody who is struggling and signpost them to professional support. Early intervention saves lives and with 347 suicides registered in Wales through 2021 alone, St John Ambulance Cymru are passionate about helping workplaces fully support their employees. The charity has

recently introduced a groundbreaking Menopause Awareness workplace course, to reduce stigma and further support people at work. One company that undertook Mental Health First Aid training with St John Ambulance Cymru said: “We found the Mental Health First Aid course informative and was able to apply what we learned within our workplace considering the sensitivity of the subject, with confidence. “Also, a most simple, effective lesson learned, is to listen. It has been a valuable course to attend and we are looking to book more of our workforce on this course.” Another claimed the course was “one of the most popular courses we offer to staff. They often finish the course feeling inspired and ready to support colleagues and volunteers throughout the organisation.” From First Aid at Work training which enables individuals to become a qualified workplace first aider to Emergency First Aid which is suitable for small, low-risk workplaces, St John Ambulance Cymru is committed to dramatically reducing the number of workplace incidents and deaths in Wales. Health and safety can seem daunting, but St John Ambulance Cymru are passionate about empowering both employers and staff with the relevant information, so they can understand how to best keep themselves and colleagues safe. The charity is committed to being the leading voice for first aid in Wales sharing only the most up to date, accurate information. St John Ambulance Cymru follows standards set by the Voluntary Aid Services and has an integral voice as a member of the First Aid Quality Partnership. When a company chooses St John Ambulance Cymru for their training needs, they are not only investing in invaluable workplace training, but they are also

When a company chooses St John Ambulance Cymru for their training needs, they are not only investing in invaluable workplace training, but they are also funding the charity’s lifesaving work in the communities of Wales.

funding the charity’s lifesaving work in the communities of Wales. Funds raised from certified training courses support the charity’s committed volunteers who provide medical cover at events across the country and the educational children and youth opportunities, like the Badger and Cadet programmes, which run for children and young people aged 5-18 in Wales. Choosing St John Ambulance Cymru also means supporting the charity to share its lifesaving knowledge to schools and community groups through free first aid demonstration sessions, along with the vital healthcare schemes supporting the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust. St John Ambulance Cymru are passionate about making workplaces and the wider community safer for all. If you’d like to find out what St John Ambulance Cymru can do for your workplace, the Training Team are always happy to help.

You can find out more about St John Ambulance Cymru’s lifesaving work in communities across Wales at www.sjacymru.org.uk.

Welcome to WCNW Chamber of Commerce Auxo Consultancy

CapNet Marketing

Elevate with Ellie

RIC-009 Riverside Innovation Centre 1 Castle Drive Chester Cheshire CH1 1SL 07825 002814

The Lauries, Office 305 142 Claughton Road Birkenhead, Wirral CH41 6EY 03454 705704 www.capnet.co.uk

Cheshire 07968 838089

Barnhill Consulting Ltd

CaravanStickers.com

EMJ Printing

Bankhead Lodge Broxton Cheshire CH3 9JL

Unit 5 Duttons Business Centre Dock Road Northwich, Cheshire CW9 5HJ 07843 150105 www.caravanstickers.com

Cheshire 07885 260457

Basepoint Business Centre

Character Education & Life Skills

Farrall’s Group

Hope Street Saltney Chester Cheshire CH4 8EU 01244 670192

Bennett Brooks Accountants

Isle of Anglesey 07496 647002 www.celscymru.com

Farrall’s Group Second Avenue Deeside Industrial Park Deeside, Flintshire CH5 2NX 03300 020348 www.farralls.co.uk

Clinical Case Management Ltd

Frank Marsh Sales Performance Specialist

Gwynedd 07702 188550 www.yourcasemanagement.com

Merseyside 07967 132735 www.frankmarsh.co.uk

Brow HQ

Clockwork

Green Shield Group

27 Bridge Street Row Chester Cheshire CH1 1NW 07512 512136 www.brow-hq.com

Chantry Court Chester West Employment Park Chester Cheshire CH1 4QN 01244 752752

32 LG Llandudno Conwy County Borough LL30 1SZ 07748 204323

CapNet

Domelec

Grosvenor Hart Homes

The Lauries, Office 305 142 Claughton Road Birkenhead, Wirral CH41 6EY 03454 705704 www.capnet.co.uk

Suite 19 Llay Business Centre Rackery Lane Wrexham, LL12 0PB 01244 422101 https://domelec.co.uk

3-4 St John’s Court Vicars Lane Chester Cheshire, CH1 1QE 07718 037216 www.grosvenor.com/hart-homes

14 Grosvenor Court Foregate Street Chester CH1 1HG 01244 401010 www.bennettbrooks.co.uk

NEW MEMBERS

Hackett Communications

My Home Deal Limited

Scope Out

Cheshire 07507 624948

Cheshire 02039 879877 www.myhomedeal.co.uk

Cheshire 01606 512031 www.scopeout.co.uk

James Cundill

Nexus Earth Ltd.

The Cottage Marsh lane Churton Chester, Cheshire CH3 6NG 07738 397493

Cheshire 07860 802904 www.nexusearthgroup.com

Travail Employment Group Wrexham

Join the Dots Marketing

Not Just Travel Anne Keen

Cheshire 07711 058984

Cheshire 07391 138834 www.annekeen.notjusttravel.com

Kaimai Limited Wrexham 07368 528151 www.kaimai.co.uk

Purple Shoots Business Lending Ltd (“Purple Shoots”) 2 Church Street Pontypridd, Rhondda Cynon Taf CF37 2TH 07905 732663 www.purpleshoots.org

Maple Green Fine Foods

Quietly Loud

Unit 3, The Sidings Rhosddu Industrial Estate Rhosrobin, Wrexham LL11 4RE 01978 354738 www.wedoughit4u.co.uk

Cheshire 07980 798462

Mortgage Advice Bureau

SafehavenPro

5 Friarsgate Chester Cheshire CH1 1XG 01244 268390 www.mortgageadvicebureau.com /chester

Merseyside 07526 248314

Travail Employment Group Charles Street Wrexham, LL13 8BT 01978 366123 www.travail.co.uk

Become a Member today! Join the largest accredited business organisation in West Cheshire and North Wales today and let us connect you to opportun ity, support you and help your business grow

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MEMBERS NEWS

Hinkley Point C supply chain partner Wincanton shortlisted for five leading industry awards Excellence Awards with a nomination for the Supply Chain Operations (People) Award. The winner at the ‘Oscars of the supply chain industry’ will be announced on 9 November.

Wincanton, a leading supply chain partner for UK business, is celebrating a remarkable five award nominations in 2023 for its work as the official warehouse and transport service partner for the construction of EDF’s Hinkley Point C nuclear power station. In a first for the business, Wincanton has been shortlisted for the Partnership Initiative of the Year at the British Construction Industry Awards, which take place in London on 11 October. The nomination recognises Wincanton’s collaborative approach to security in its capacity as the Tier one warehousing and transport partner for EDF in the construction of Hinkley Point C nuclear power station. Wincanton is shortlisted alongside some of the most prestigious infrastructure projects in the UK, including Thames Tideway Tunnel, HS2 and Sellafield. Run in collaboration with the Institution of Civil Engineers and New Civil Engineer, the British Construction Industry Awards are the most prestigious awards in infrastructure and construction.

Wincanton was shortlisted for five leading industry awards! Carl Meewezen, Managing Director, Public & Industrial, Wincanton said: “Wincanton has worked collaboratively and innovatively with EDF Energy and fellow HPC Tier-1 contractors to successfully generate and embed a security culture that protects its colleagues, their working environment, and the project’s supply chain, removing risk from the build and disruption to its schedule.” Embedding a people-orientated culture on a project of such scale, where individual colleagues are risk-aware, has seen Wincanton recognised at the Supply Chain

Furthermore, Wincanton’s collaborative work with Hinkley Point C has seen it shortlisted for Logistics Partner of the Year at the Logistics UK Awards. Logistics UK is one of the biggest business groups in the UK, supporting, shaping and standing up for efficient logistics. As the only business group in the UK that represents all of logistics, its awards, which take place on 7th December, represent the very best in the industry. This year, Wincanton has been recognised at the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) 30th Awards for Excellence, where its focus on guaranteeing accuracy, security and transparency for EDF’s £32 billion construction project saw it shortlisted for the Operations Management Award. Wincanton was also proud to be shortlisted for Employer of the Year at the Business Leader South-West Awards, which acknowledge and celebrate outstanding business achievements in the region in September.

Congratulations to Kieran as he qualifies as an Independent Financial Adviser! Financial Fortress Ltd in Chester is committed to developing its colleagues and after 5 gruelling years (and 7 exams), our apprentice, Kieran Broster has finally qualified as an Independent Financial Adviser. Kieran started at Financial Fortress in 2018 after working in recruitment and studied to become a Mortgage Adviser 2 years later. Since then, he has been working hard helping our clients buy their dream homes. Whilst delivering outstanding mortgage advice to our clients, Kieran was enrolled and began study of the Diploma in Financial Planning with the Chartered Insurance Institute. About 18 months ago, Kieran was promoted to the role of “Para-Planner” (a specialist assistant to qualified financial advisers) gaining valuable experience before achieving full qualification in September 2023. Managing Director of Financial Fortress, Wayne Musker says “We are delighted to continue our investment in the financial

planners of the future, our industry is incredibly hard to get into given the high standard qualifications needed. I can’t wait to supervise Kieran’s continued development and have complete faith in his high standards of diligence and client care”. Kieran himself says “I feel incredibly lucky to be able to gain experience in my role and love helping our clients achieve their financial security. I realise financial planning can seem daunting to some, but I look forward to increasing the trust in our company and wider industry”. To assist with Kieran’s development, we are seeking 5 clients who would like a pension or investment review FREE of any initial charge. All meetings and advice will be

Kieran Broster qualifies as an Independent Financial Adviser at Financial Fortress

conducted under the full supervision of our Managing Director (and industry veteran) Wayne Musker so you will be in the best of hands! Whether you are a business owner looking for tax advice or a private individual wanting to review your pensions and investments, this is surely an offer you can’t refuse! Contact us on 01244 319962 or email: info@financialfortress.co.uk to book your meeting today.

PERSON BEHIND THE BUSINESS

Rebecca Gaskell

Managing Director of Pure Tributes An overview of yourself and your current role? I am the MD and co-founder of Pure Tributes. I am mainly office-based in the week, running the business with my husband Mark, liaising with clients and our tribute artists to ensure the smooth running of future gigs. This also gives me the opportunity to keep on top of rehearsals, team meetings and bringing in new acts! I am also a singer myself so, at weekends, I am on the road performing in various venues across the country.

What do you enjoy most about your job? Firstly, my job is also my passion and I have great variation in my day-to-day role. I really enjoy understanding the needs of my clients and their venues so we can arrange the perfect entertainment for their customers. I often have the chance to work with friends from time to time so I gain back some social time at the weekends too. It’s great having the opportunity to work in the field and stay current with all aspects of the entertainment business. To sum things up, I have the chance to be very creative at work and believe this allows me to see both sides of the industry, which helps things run as smoothly as possible.

Was a role like this always what you aspired to? Having trained since age four (at the Hammond School of Dance, Chester) I always wanted to be on stage. It’s been such a fun and interesting journey as you never really know what opportunities are

Rebecca Gaskell, Managing Director of Pure Tributes

going to present themselves working as a freelancer in this industry. These experiences certainly fast-forwarded my desire to become an agency owner, which was my long-term vision in order to give myself the best opportunity to spend my career in the entertainment business.

Tell us about your previous roles/ business journey. I have a vast CV working extensively across the UK and abroad. I have always been on stage, one way or another. For the first five or so years I was a dancer touring theatres, working abroad and learning the business. I still enjoy that side as I choreograph various in-house shows for Pure Tributes. More recently, I have worked in hotels, clubs and international fly-backs for corporate events and have been lucky enough to also have a few theatre tours under my belt. These experiences include work as a soloist, also in duos, groups and bands. My career has been vast and varied and I sort of fell into the tribute world, and I haven’t looked back since. So, from here, Pure Tributes was born.

Tell us a bit about what you do outside of work to relax? I like to unwind mainly through swimming and yoga, I find it very calming and enjoyable.

In an ideal world, what else would you like to be? I would love to work in theatres more so performing in London’s West End would be a dream.

What advice would you give to anyone else in business? Try and find something that interests and inspires you, this has been an important foundation for me. I believe it creates a fundamental motivation and positive outlook. Starting a business can be daunting, of course, but try to create a clear plan, scrutinise it and praise it, set goals but try to enjoy the process - don’t be too harsh on yourself. Creating your own vision can be very rewarding market and keep at it. It’s a marathon, not a sprint to coin a cliché! And true to my mission, be adventurous…

My job is also my passion and I have great variation in my day-to-day role. I really enjoy understanding the needs of my clients and their venues so we can arrange the perfect entertainment for their customers.

Sovereign Corporate and Trustee Services (SCATS) CORPORATE SERVICES Company incorporation and administration Employee Incentive Schemes Tax planning Market entry PRIVATE CLIENT Establishment and administration of Trusts IHT & succession planning The Sovereign Group began in Gibraltar in 1987 and has since grown into one of the one of the largest independent corporate and trust service providers in the world.

CONTACT Sovereign Corporate and Trustee Services (SCATS) Office 4, 3/F Coachworks Arcade, Northgate Street, Chester, CH1 2EY T 01244 901350 E ukcorporate@SovereignGroup.com SovereignGroup.com Bahamas Bahrain Cyprus Gibraltar Guernsey Mauritius Oman Portugal Qatar Saudi Arabia Switzerland United Arab Emirates – Abu Dhabi, Dubai

Hong Kong Isle of Man Malta Singapore South Africa United Kingdom – London, Chester

WCNW December 23

Articles inside

PERSON BEHIND THE BUSINESS Rebecca Gaskell Managing Director of Pure Tributes

Congratulations to Kieran as he qualifies as an Independent Financial Adviser!

Hinkley Point C supply chain partner Wincanton shortlisted for five leading industry awards

St John Ambulance Cymru

Business confidence high despite tough trading conditions

BCC Quarterly Economic Survey: Investment flatlining as interest rate fears climb

Why Net Zero for the SME?

Spotlight on microbiology

Cheshire Geoenergy Observatory gears up for debut

High-Quality, Contemporary & Flexible co-working spaces

24 Hours with Complete Education Solutions

INTERNATIONAL TRADE International Trade Forum returns to support more local exporters & importers!

GWAITH TEG I GYMRU FAIR WORK FOR WALES

RECOGNITION AWARDS Winners Announced at Annual Ball & Recognition Awards 2023

An Insight into Continental Diamond Tool Limited

Official opening of Wales’s first Tidal Stream Energy Site

Council celebrates its regional win for inclusion

UK Shared Prosperity Fund Workspace Project

Getting Started with Helen Almond CEO of Becoming The Great Ltd

The advantage of a corporate audit for businesses

Get involved with Young Chamber

Can you support Young Chamber as the 2023-24 academic year kicks off?

Chester International School Students gain valuable experience during Young Chamber Mock Interview Day

Young Chamber sponsors support careers fair at Queen’s Park High School

Sharing research and enhancing learning on Social Enterprise

Awards celebrate student achievement and create new connections

Protos Networks achieves ISO 27001 Certification: A Pinnacle in Cyber Security Excellence

Looking back on 2023 for Ellis & Co

Helping adults and business reach their full potential

Cokebusters named Company of the Year 2023 at the EIC Awards!

MEMBERS NEWS

STRATEGIC MEMBERS NEWS A year of success: Zodeq looks back at 2023

Manage market unpredictability in 2024

Feefo Gold Award Winner 2022!

Community at heart of busy schedule in Blacon

Umbrella Marketing Team: Nine years into the journey

2023 Events and Comms Review

MEMBERS NEWS Unwrapping the law of Christmas gifts: A Jolly Guide for Employers

CHAMBER NEWS Robin Tudor joins Chamber’s Board of Directors

Lunch & Learn Power Hour a success!

Sales Club 2.0 launched to further support local businesses

Call for evidence launched by BCC Workplace Equity Commission

Welcome to the Winter edition of our Quarterly Business Magazine