West Cheshire North Wales March 24

GREEN THE FUTURE IS

For Pallet Deliveries in Chester

GREEN THE FUTURE IS

For

1 pallet delivery equates to 10kg carbon emitted into the atmosphere

1 pallet delivery equates to 10kg carbon emitted into the atmosphere

1 pallet delivery equates to 10kg carbon emitted into the atmosphere

Farrall’s new delivery service provides pallet deliveries with zero emissions

Farrall’s new delivery service provides pallet deliveries with zero emissions

For Pallet Deliveries in Chester

Pallet Deliveries in Chester

Over 20,000 pallet deliveries go into Chester City Centre per year

Over 20,000 pallet deliveries go into Chester City Centre per year

Over 20,000 pallet deliveries go into Chester City Centre per year

You can request your supplier to use Farrall’s for final mile deliveries

You can request your supplier to use Farrall’s for final mile deliveries

This equates to 200,000 kgs of carbon emissions

This equates to 200,000 kgs of carbon emissions

This equates to 200,000 kgs of carbon emissions

Let’s keep Chester clean and green

Let’s keep Chester clean and green

THE VEHICLE

Farrall’s new delivery service provides pallet deliveries with zero emissions

You can request your supplier to use Farrall’s for final mile deliveries

Lithium Ion BatteryNo Unethical Cobalt

Pedestrian Windows

Pedestrian Windows

Lithium Ion BatteryNo Unethical Cobalt

URBAN CONSOLIDATION CENTRE

Let’s keep Chester clean and green

THE VEHICLE URBAN CONSOLIDATION CENTRE

Located in Deeside- convenient location for transport links

Located in Deeside- convenient location for transport links

THE VEHICLE URBAN CONSOLIDATION CENTRE

Pedestrian Windows

Lithium Ion BatteryNo Unethical Cobalt

Centre’s roof equipped with solar panels used to power centre & charge truck

Centre’s roof equipped with solar panels used to power centre & charge truck

Located in Deeside- convenient location for transport links

Pallets can be received through Palletforce or as an individual consignment

Pallets can be received through Palletforce or as an individual consignment

Centre’s roof equipped with solar panels used to power centre & charge truck

Zero Noise & Tail

Pipe Emissions 360˚ Cameras

Zero Noise & Tail

Pallets can be received through Palletforce or as an individual consignment

WELCOME

Welcome to the Spring edition of our Quarterly Business Magazine

SARAH BAILEY

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 March 2024

© Benham Publishing Media no. 2059

Advertising and Features

Karen Hall

t: 0151 236 4141

e: karen@benhampublishing.com

Design

David Wright

t: 0151 236 4141

I am delighted to be writing my first introduction to our Quarterly Business Magazine as the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce.

I may be a familiar face to many of you having been involved with the Chamber for a number of years and it is truly a privilege to take up the position.

As a member of the Chamber, you are at the heart of everything we do and I am incredibly keen to ensure the Chamber does all it can to support your growth plans. I am excited to build on my existing relationships with members and it has been great to meet many of you over the last couple of months at our networking events.

I wanted to take the opportunity to thank Debbie Bryce who has played a pivotal role throughout her time at the Chamber. Over the last 10 years, Debbie has been an integral part of the team and has been devoted to the progress of the Chamber, she will be missed by all.

I join the Chamber at an incredibly exciting time as we launch our Vision 2026, a new strategic vision for the region that focuses on four key priorities: Employment & Skills, International Trade, Infrastructure & Connectivity and Climate Challenge. You can read more about Vision 2026 on pages 6-7. We are also looking forward to our North Wales Dinner on Friday 10th May for an evening of fine dining and entertainment. It is always a wonderful night as we celebrate the success of North Wales businesses in Deganwy and it would be brilliant if you are able to join us. View more information on the next page.

I look forward to meeting many more of you in the coming months and as always, if there is anything that the we can do to support your business, please do not hesitate to reach out on 01244 669988 or info@wcnwchamber.org.uk.

Inside: West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce WCNWChamber

46 PERSON BEHIND THE BUSINESS 4-7 CHAMBER NEWS 24 - 25 THE BIG INTERVIEW INSIGHT INTO 39 ECONOMY 18-19 YOUNG CHAMBER

North Wales Dinner

The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce that its North Wales Dinner is taking place on Friday 10th May at The Quay Hotel & Spa, Deganwy and is kindly sponsored by Sales Geek North Wales.

Sarah Bailey, Chief Executive Officer at West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce said “Overlooking River Conwy and Conwy Castle, The Quay makes for a beautiful location and we are incredibly excited to be back in Deganwy for our North Wales Dinner!”

“There has always been a great atmosphere at these events in the past as we bring together businesses from across North Wales, and the wider region, to connect and enjoy an evening of fine dining and entertainment. We hope you are able to join us!”

n

Guests will enjoy a delicious three-course meal:

Starter: Chicken Liver, Orange & Brandy Pate, Spiced Cox’s Apple Chutney and Tan Lan

Veg: Soup: Roast Tomato & Rosemary, Served with Accompaniments

Main: Chicken Supreme, Anna potato, Crispy Leeks & Champagne Sauce

Veg: Chick Pea, Lentil & Herb Wellington, Fondant Potato. Roast Carrots, and Carrot Jus

Dessert: Mixed Berry Cheesecake with Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream

To Finish: Tea & Coffee

Chamber Golf Day

The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to another fantastic Chamber Golf Day on 9th May 2024, in partnership with Macdonald Portal Hotel Golf & Spa.

The event, open to members and nonmembers, takes place on the 18-hole Championship Course in the picturesque Cheshire countryside. The Chamber Golf Day presents an amazing opportunity to play at a world class venue with breakfast, dinner, networking, live scoring, competitions and award ceremony taking place at the end of the day.

Format

This is an event where businesses and organisations can participate in a team of four. But don’t worry, if you don’t have a full team or want to take part as an individual from a business,

Additional Information

Dress code: Lounge Suits & Cocktail Dresses

Guests can obtain a 10% discount on bookings at The Quay We hope you are able to join us for a fabulous evening in Conwy!

Headline Sponsor:

you will be allocated to a team of four.

• There will be a shotgun start with players teeing off at the same time on each hole of the course.

• The best two scores from four will count on each hole (stableford).

• Live scoring will be available via an app that players can download on the day.

• Max handicap 24.

Competitions

There will be several competitions on the day with prizes up for grabs!

•Longest Drive Competition

•Nearest to the Pin Competition

•Hole in One Competition – win a sevennight holiday to Spain worth £2000!!

•Prizes will also be given to the winning team Prizes are sponsored by Equals Money

Agenda

• Arrival with tea, coffee and bacon rolls or vegetarian alternative – 9:30am

• Tee Off - 10:30am

• Two-Course Dinner - 4:00pm

• Award Ceremony - 5:00pm

• Depart - 5:30pm

Guests will enjoy another evening of fine dining and entertainment

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce announce new CEO

The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce Sarah Bailey as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Sarah will be leading the Chamber which represents businesses of all sectors and sizes across the region and those located nationally and internationally.

Sarah joins the Chamber after 17 years at NatWest where she has supported thousands of businesses through her roles, most recently as Director of Business Banking.

Sarah will be a familiar face to many Chamber members having been an active member for over ten years and having been a previous Board Member.

On her appointment as Chief Executive Officer, Sarah said: “Having been an avid supporter of the Chamber throughout my time as a member and Board Director, I am looking forward to getting started in this role, building on my existing relationships with members and engaging with key stakeholders across the region.”

Our members are the heart of our Chamber and I am keen to engage with them to recognise their successes and understand the issues and challenges that they face.”

“Our members are the heart of our Chamber and I am keen to engage with them to recognise their successes and understand the issues and challenges that they face. Having the opportunity to then represent and lobby on their behalf will enable the Chamber to support their future growth plans.”

“Working closely with the established and talented team at the Chamber, I am confident that we will continue to build on previous successes as we continue to be the voice of business within the West Cheshire and North Wales region.”

Departing Chief Executive Officer, Debbie Bryce, said: “It has been a privilege and a pleasure to welcome Sarah as the Chamber’s new Chief Executive Officer. Sarah’s past experience has shown that she is immensely passionate about making a difference to businesses across our region and I have no doubt that the Chamber will go from strength to strength under her leadership.”

n L to R: Debbie Bryce with new CEO of the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, Sarah Bailey

VISION 2026

West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce is the leading organisation representing the business community across the whole of West Cheshire and North Wales. As an independent, not for profit organisation, our objectives remain clear: to promote and encourage business for our members and others regionally, nationally and internationally through our global network to improve commercial growth and prosperity.

Vision 2026 focuses on four priority areas in the next three years, that will enable businesses to thrive:

Bridging the Employment and Skills

gap across West Cheshire and North Wales.

Promoting International Trade and supporting businesses to navigate the changing landscape.

Creating enhanced Infrastructure & Connectivity for our region to meet the needs of businesses. and North Wales.

Focusing on Climate Challenge and the increased demands on businesses to be more sustainable.

Laying the foundations for a sustainable economy in our region

As we launch Vision 2026, businesses have faced enormous challenge and change in recent years; from EU withdrawal, Covid-19 and more recently, the cost-of-living and energy crisis. Building on our existing vision, we aim to continue enhancing the Chamber, drive our economy forward, and celebrate achievements as we continue to act as the authentic voice of business across our region.

Employment & Skills

A skilled workforce is the lifeblood of successful businesses across the region, however, there have been unprecedented challenges for businesses in recent years following the Covid pandemic and the UK exiting the EU.

Many sectors are still struggling to overcome recruitment and training difficulties in striving to meet their growth ambitions. These issues are compounded by the cost-of-living crisis and rising energy costs.

The world of work and ways of working

are changing, businesses will see shifts in supply chain and business processes. In addition, they will need to respond to new job requirements, working patterns and upskilling and reskilling challenges as businesses embrace digitalisation, automation and climate challenge.

Across West Cheshire and North Wales, there is an ageing workforce which presents challenges of replacement demand in some sectors as over 65-year-olds leave the workforce. We intend to be at the forefront of driving skills priorities.

International Trade

EU withdrawal has had a significant impact on businesses that trade internationally with new customs procedures, new documentation, and the impact of new trade agreements. Further changes in customs procedures and IT platforms are also being phased in.

In the light of these changes and the impact the pandemic has had, businesses will need greater support and access to information.

Importing is also crucially important to the wider economy, providing key products and services for consumers. Imports also play a key part in manufacturing and processing supply chains and supporting

Infrastructure & Connectivity

Increasing digitalisation requires innovative solutions to improve the transport network and to meet the evolving needs of businesses. As businesses move to more sustainable solutions for transporting people and goods, there remains a disparity in the quality of the transport network across various parts of our region.

The scale of the challenge for businesses across West Cheshire and North Wales relating to transport infrastructure should not be underestimated. Many business leaders tell us that they do not feel that the current transport system supports the needs of businesses. This problem is compounded by the timescales for planning infrastructure and the cost involved with some of the larger projects.

Covid restrictions highlighted the importance of improving connectivity as businesses learned to trade and work more flexibly during the pandemic. The introduction of superfast broadband

ongoing innovation and product development.

Research by the British Chambers of Commerce has shown that internationally active businesses are more productive and resilient. It also shows that exporters are more likely to be innovative and introduce new products, services or production methods than those businesses which don’t export.

The world of trade is changing, new markets are emerging, greener, sustainable goods and services are being developed and we have an opportunity to be leaders in this new wave of commerce for years to come.

across our region goes part way towards laying the communication foundations but improvements must keep pace with business demand. Further work must also be done to support businesses to access new technologies, respond to new opportunities and keep pace with the speed of change. This is essential if businesses in West Cheshire and North Wales are to compete on a global platform.

Climate Challenge

Businesses across West Cheshire and North Wales are working towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050. To achieve this, businesses will need to understand how they can remove enough emissions from the atmosphere to balance what they produce.

Many businesses, both large and small, are making significant efforts to embrace the climate challenge, with sustainability and green choices an important part of their future business strategies.

You can view the Chamber’s pledge to reduce its own carbon footprint by scanning the QR code below.

We are keen to hear your views!

The Chamber of Commerce is eager to engage and work with our members and the business community on our Vision 2026 and please send your views to info@ wcnwchamber.org.uk.

You can also scan the QR code on this page to see the full Vision 2026 document.

Why ESG is important to us

Robin Tudor, Head of PR & Communications at Liverpool John Lennon Airport explains more about the airport’s ESG commitments:

Here at Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LJLA), we have just published our first annual Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report which sets out a number of corporate objectives for the Airport based on the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This highlights a series of commitments, alongside challenging but realistic targets to help us meet these commitments, which includes our recently announced Airport Community Fund. The report is also an opportunity to highlight for the first time the diverse range of initiatives that we have undertaken in recent years to help local communities and the environment, to encourage passenger travel for all and to become an employer of choice.

Operating within a strong ESG framework has been a key focus for the airport in recent years, but this is the first time that we have reported on some of our achievements that have benefitted not only passengers, but local communities, the local economy and also the environment. The airport has undertaken a diverse range of initiatives that include raising £230,000 for Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, donating over 4 tonnes of items to local foodbanks, supporting young people in to work through apprenticeships

Embracing continuous learning: Upskilling your team in 2024

Continuous learning at work is good for your business. From compulsory learning such as health and safety, to continued professional development (CPD), all employees, no matter what their role, can benefit.

Why is continuous learning so key? For starters, it keeps us in sync with the latest industry trends. Everything’s evolving at lightning speed, and we need to keep pace to stay relevant. By pushing for continuous learning, we ensure our team is always on the cutting edge, which in turn boosts our company’s competitive edge. With continuous learning comes continuous development; not just for the employee, but for their place of work. A team that engages in training and development will not only remain competent, but can also aspire to be one step ahead of the competition, giving your business the edge. Plus, continuous learning positively

impacts on employee satisfaction and engagement. When people have opportunities to learn and advance, they feel more valued and driven – not only increasing job satisfaction, but helping to reduce staff turnover.

In a nutshell, upskilling isn’t just a ‘nice to have’ – it’s a must in the modern workplace.

At The HR Dept Wrexham and Chester, we’re big believers in the power and value of continuous learning. Our own Snr HR consultant Lauren Rymer recently achieved Chartered CIPD status – adding a wealth of expertise to our team and benefiting our clients.

and reducing our carbon emissions by 69% over the past decade.

We’re really proud of what we’ve been able to achieve in recent years to help local communities, our employees and the environment through various initiatives, but we recognise there is always more that can be done and it’s for this reason that in addition to celebrating our achievements, we set out in this report our ESG commitments going forward, as we strive to have a more beneficial impact in future years too.

If the shifting business landscape has got you thinking about renewed training and development for your team, we can help! Speak to us today about how to take your business forward with effective eLearning and employee training.

The HR Dept Wrexham & Chester, wrexches@hrdept.co.uk

n Airport volunteer gardeners

n Lauren Rymer MCIPD – Snr Hr Consultant with The HR Dept Wrexham & Chester

NatWest Financial FoundationsWorkshops

NatWest understands that for many people, these are tough times. As the cost-of-living crisis and unprecedented economic environment throws challenges at so many, financial capability has never been so important.

Industry statistics show that almost 8 in 10 UK employees take their money worries to work, affecting their performance. 4.2 million worker days each year are lost in absences because of a lack of financial well-being. That’s the equivalent of £626 million in lost output.

NatWest is offering free Financial Foundations Workshops aiming to help people, organisations and community groups to build money skills and confidence. The workshops are themed around four topics:

Building Blocks – supporting participants to get to grips with money basics, with an introduction to banking, budgeting, borrowing and credit scores.

Changes and Choices – which explores your relationship with money and how to navigate the unexpected.

Fraud and scams – learning how to identify common financial scams and how to protect yourself from fraudsters. Cost of Living – understanding how to tackle the cost of living by exploring budgeting tips, savings strategies and what to do if you are struggling with debt.

Val Hodgson, NatWest Branch Manager in Chester said “We are proud to offer a free service through a range of Workshops to help individuals, organisations and community groups at all stages of life to build money skills and confidence.

“Our Financial Foundations Workshops are available for both big and small groups. We don’t give advice and our workshops have been created to offer money tips and boost confidence. There are 4 different workshops available lasting between 45 and 60 minutes.”

To book a Workshop, get in touch on financial.foundations@natwest.com

We are proud to offer a free service through a range of Workshops to help individuals, organisations and community groups at all stages of life to build money skills and confidence.”

RFCA for Wales collaboration with the Royal Navy

Did you know that over 90% of our nation’s trade comes and goes by sea? Or that modern business relies on fast, accurate data transfer, 97% of which is carried on undersea cables? How about the intrinsic link between our nation’s maritime and every other sector within the UK?

The Reserve Forces’ & Cadets’ Association For Wales regularly collaborates with The Royal Navy Domestic Engagement team to maintain avenues for developing the fantastic relationship between the Royal Navy, industry, defence, academia and other institutions. Fundamental understanding of The Royal Navy Domestic Engagement team’s activity

underpins free access to the world’s oceans and infrastructure. Our routes for collaboration vary from Maritime Enterprise networking, think tanks, procurement and public presentations or events.

The Royal Navy Presentation Team is eager to engage with companies

across the region and is seeking to talk to employees about the importance of the maritime sector and what the Navy is doing strategically around the world - as well as at home - to help our island nation prosper.

Tony Fish, Regional Employer Engagement Director (North) at RFCA for Wales explains: “As a mobile team, completely free of charge, they will bring everything needed to deliver a presentation - so whether you are hosting an event or AGM and want to invite an ally of the maritime sector, or simply enabling a “lunch and learn” and CPD for your teams, they will be willing to travel to your site to achieve this engagement. All they need is a power source and an audience!”

If you are interested in what they have to offer, or any of the links that can be built between your business and the Royal Navy, please drop an email to NAVYSTRATPOL-RNPTGROUP@mod.gov.uk or check search “RNPT” online.

n L to R: Julian Brooks Regional, Director SME Banking, John Roberts, Financial Foundations Facilitator, and Val Hodgson, NatWest Branch Manager Chester & Ellesmere Port

Nerys Price-Jones and Caroline Platt’s Arctic Circle journey

Amidst the challenging terrain of the Arctic Circle, Nerys Price-Jones and Caroline Platt, accompanied by five other adventurers, embarked on an incredible journey spanning 65km.

The Arctic Trek, a three-day expedition starting from Rovaniemi, Finland, challenged the physical and mental limits of the participants. What makes their adventure truly exceptional is not just the physical feat but the purpose behind itraising funds for The Joshua Tree charity.

The Purpose: For Nerys Price-Jones, Platts Agriculture’s People & Engagement Director, and Caroline Platt, the company’s Managing Director, the Arctic Trek held personal significance. Nerys’s son, Fynle, faced a life-threatening brain tumour in 2019, undergoing a marathon 13-hour operation at Alder Hey Hospital. Throughout, The Joshua Tree provided support to the Price-Jones family, making the cause deeply meaningful to both Nerys and Caroline.

The Trek: The Arctic Trek Challenge commenced from Rovaniemi, Finland,

with participants pulling their own kits across icy landscapes and braving freezing temperatures. Camping out in tents each night, the adventurers endured harsh including deep snow, soft underfoot terrain, and whiteouts.

Caroline described the journey as “nothing short of brutal, pushing me to my limits both physically and mentally. From the lowest of

nothing short of brutal, pushing me to my limits both physically and mentally. From the lowest of lows to the highest of highs, every step tested my determination and resilience.”

lows to the highest of highs, every step tested my determination and resilience.”

The impact of their efforts is reflected in the close to £70,000 raised thus far for The Joshua Tree. This contribution will provide vital support to families served by the charity, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they need during challenging times.

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/carolinejplatt

Wrexham-based Isla Grace Mortgages celebrate milestone anniversary

February 26th 2024 saw Isla Grace Mortgages celebrate five years of business! In those five years, the family-run company, based in Wrexham, North Wales, have arranged hundreds of mortgages and insurance deals for homeowners across the UK and has been a steady source of financial advice in uncertain and confusing times.

Isla Grace Mortgages was set up by Gareth Walsh as an independent brokerage in 2019 after 15 years of experience working for various organisations within the financial industry. Gareth’s vision behind Isla Grace was to help people reach their dreams of home ownership, whilst making the process as smooth and stress-free for clients as possible. The five years of business

have seen Isla Grace overcome many challenges such as a global pandemic and a cost-of-living crisis, while still managing to go above and beyond for clients, earning five-star ratings on both Facebook and Google and even being nominated for the ‘Make a Difference’ award by the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce in 2023.

“We would like to thank our wonderful clients for their continued support” Gareth says, “we’re so proud of what we’ve achieved in the last five years, and are looking forward to what the next five bring!” The team at Isla Grace are celebrating their fifth birthday with a giveaway on social media, and plenty of cake in the office.

To keep up to date with Isla Grace Mortgages, you can visit

https://islagracemortgages.co.uk/ or look for our Facebook and Instagram pages on social media.

n L to R: Nerys and Caroline took part in The Arctic Trek and raising funds for The Joshua Tree

n Gareth Walsh and Sarah Smith at the WCNW Chamber Awards in 2023

Transformative Enterprise Hub continues to thrive and grow

A transformative Enterprise Hub outperforming its peers “by some margin” will enter its sixth year with a raft of new services for start-ups and entrepreneurs.

The pioneering Menter Môn Enterprise Hub (Hwb Menter), based with project partners M-SParc, Gaerwen, and at Hwb Arloesi, Porthmadog, has unveiled a series of benefits and incentives in addition to its co-working spaces and popular Miwtini start-up programme.

Businesses in Gwynedd and Anglesey can apply for a £2,500 ‘support package’ that includes access to guidance and free information, financial backing and more. A recent Welsh Government evaluation revealed the North West Wales Enterprise Hub team, managed by Sara Lois Roberts, was “outperforming by some margin” and “has been able to reach a new and different audience”.

Sara is “proud and excited” that they can move forward and offer even more to people across the region.

“We have a fantastic team within the Enterprise Hub who have worked tirelessly to help people over the last five years, so for that to be recognised by Welsh Government was heartening,” she said.

“Our services will continue, with a focus on start-ups and entrepreneurs in Gwynedd and Anglesey, and the new support package shows we are even more determined to give those looking to start their own business the help they need to succeed.”

The Enterprise Hub has done just that for more than 180 new enterprises since 2018 – there was no slowing down for the Coronavirus pandemic – demonstrating how pivotal the need was for an inperson, accessible platform aligned to the “local business ecosystem”.

Opening a hub in Porthmadog (Hwb Arloesi) reinforced the need for a service in that area, and it has proven popular with solo workers in particular offering remote, hot desk spaces, events, and networking. This location joins a network of other hubs, including MSParc’s #OnTour locations in Pwllheli and Bangor.

Pryderi ap Rhisiart, M-SParc Managing Director said: “The Enterprise Hub has

been a fantastic example of how M-SParc and Menter Môn collaborate on projects which lead to positive results across a variety of industries and sectors in North Wales, and perfectly fits our remit of business growth in the area, job creation, and making North Wales an attractive place to work.”

Having now received £568,184 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via Cyngor Gwynedd / Anglesey County Council and £150,000 from Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS) a wholly owned subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), Sara is delighted that the Enterprise Hub can continue to give those who need it a commercial kickstart.

NRS’s Director of External Affairs, Bill Hamilton said: “We at NRS are happy to support schemes such as the Enterprise Hub through Menter Môn, which aims to support local communities as well as bring socio economic benefits. Menter Mon has played a pivotal role in enabling NRS to support growth here in North Wales and we look forward to seeing them continue to deliver on their projects.”

Sara added: “Our core services will remain and have gone from strength to strength,” she said.

“But the new support package will be a game changer for start-ups in the two counties, especially the £2,500 financial assistance which can be used for important long-term benefits, whether that be memberships, software, subscriptions to accounting packages, or using professionals such as accountants, graphic designers, or web developers.

“However, it’s much more than just a financial incentive, the overall wraparound scheme will give start-ups and anyone looking to launch a business all the support they need, including tips and advice from our database of experts in a wide range of fields.

“We have already had a very positive response and would like to thank everyone who has engaged with the Enterprise Hub – for more information on how we can help you please get in touch.”

For more on how the Enterprise Hub can help you start-up in business, email post@ hwbmenter.cymru or call 01248 858 070. Alternatively, visit www.hwbmenter.cymru

n L to R: Sara Roberts, Enterprise Hub Manager and Sian Thomas, Enterprise Hub Administration Officer

YOU are an amazing person YES,YOU!

Do you want to make a positive difference to a child’s life? Do you want to help change and shape a child’s future either by caring for them one weekend per month, (classed as respite care where they are placed with other carers) or offering them a permanent home yourself?

The Specialist Foster Carer Scheme will offer you up to £350 for a weekend or £52k per year in full-time care.

Gemma Gerrish, Director of Children’s Social Care at Cheshire West & Chester Council, said: “We are looking for special people to work with children who have had a difficult start in life and have been cared for in residential care previously, but who would love to be part of a family environment.”

“Specialist fostering can be an extremely rewarding option where YOU can make a huge difference to a child’s future.

“Are you a current or previous Residential Care Worker, Nurse, Police Officer, Teacher or Probation Worker perhaps? Maybe you’re already a foster carer with additional experience in complex and challenging behaviour?”

Fostering is an incredible journey and if you choose to join, you’ll receive a generous professional fee and a fostering allowance will be provided to cover other fostering expenses such as mileage, Christmas and birthday money. You will also receive multi-agency support and fantastic training opportunities.

Carers within the scheme will be part of a wraparound professional support team composed of a social worker, teacher, therapist and family support worker. Regular short stays will also be offered to the young person to enable a break for both them and their foster carer.

To reflect the skills required to care for our children and adolescents, you will be paid a professional fee of £52,000 per annum or up to £350 a weekend.

There are key requirements to becoming a

Specialist Foster Carer, some of which are listed below:

• Live in the Cheshire West and Chester area or close by and be a car driver.

• Successfully complete a foster carer assessment and approval by Cheshire West and Chester Council including being able to fulfil a successful DBS check.

• You must have room to support a child or adolescent in your home and be available on a full-time basis to care for the young person placed.

• Be able to offer unconditional positive regard and encouragement to a young person, even whilst challenging unacceptable behaviour if needed. To express your interest in the scheme, visit www.foster4.co.uk or call the team on 01925 444100.

Council helps businesses switch to electric vehicles

We are aware that many businesses are looking to switch to EVs as part of their net zero ambitions and cost-efficiencies within their business. But navigating this route is not easy and there are many details to understand.

Cheshire West and Chester Council is hosting a major free-to-attend information event around electric vehicles (EV) this May, to address these issues and help businesses make informed decisions.

“Understanding how to transition to EV in business and at home” will be held on Tuesday May 21 at the Civic Centre, Ellesmere Port.

The event will run from 8am to 2pm, with the first two hours (8am to 10am) reserved solely for the business sector. Business representatives attending will be served complimentary breakfast rolls with tea and coffee.

The purpose of the event is to provide businesses with essential advice about transitioning to EV. Key opportunities on the day will include test drives, both commercial and domestic, the key stages around EV transition for businesses, forthcoming vehicle releases and the opportunity to speak to those leading the transition to EV, such as SP Energy Networks, Energy Savings Trust and major local employer, Stellantis.

With specialist speakers, and around 20 exhibitors, a range of key topics will be covered including:

• Salary sacrifice – how it applies to all business sizes, including sole traders, delivering savings of around 40% on new EV costs.

• Real-life costs of running an EV or EV fleet.

• Grant funding available.

• How to select and install suitable EV charging infrastructure.

• How to futureproof your fleet.

• EV for heavy commercial sector.

• EV charging with other renewables and energy systems.

Supported by EV knowledge leaders, Green Car Guide, the event will cover the current state of the commercial and domestic EV market, forthcoming vehicle releases, and compare leasing and purchase options.

The event includes an Expo element, with a range of local and leading EV-related businesses on hand in the exhibition hall to give specific advice and respond to questions. Demand will be high for this event, so entry is by ticket only and places are limited.

To register for this free-to-attend event, visit

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/cheshirewest-and-chester-council-ev-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:

7th November – Round the Table Networking at North Light Bar & Restaurant Chester

12th December – Christmas Lunch and Networking at Village Hotel Chester

16th January – Round the Table Networking at Delyn Safety

23rd November – Networking Lunch at Brewhouse & Kitchen, Chester

13th December – West Cheshire Women’s Network – Christmas Networking Lunch

23rd January – Networking Lunch at Llandudno Bay Hotel

6th December – Round the Table Networking at Cheshire FA

12th January – Sales Club 2.0

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

The networking opportunities keep coming over the next few months!

We’re hosting an incredible line up of events over the coming months and members are advised to plan ahead to secure their places. Events are on our website until December 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.

21st March – West Cheshire Women’s Network

20th March – Networking Lunch at Ramada Plaza Wrexham

14th May – Round the Table Networking at Brewhouse and Kitchen

21st

Lunch at The Quay Hotel & Spa 4th

26th April – Sales Club 2.0

17th April – Round the Table Networking at Cheshire College – South & West

30th April – Networking Lunch at Chester Football Club

n Melanie Tomkins, Tax Manager at Ellis & Co

“The dog ate my tax return”

It’s 10 minutes to midnight on the evening of 31st January and our very last client logs into our portal and clicks to approve their tax return. Obviously, all the staff are asleep and this one misses the deadline.

Despite that, we’re delighted to have had another successful tax return season here at Ellis & Co helping (almost) all of our clients get their tax returns in on time. We know that tax isn’t everyone’s favourite thing to do which is why we take the hassle out of the process. In January, this support morphs into lots of reminders, surreptitiously extracting the information piece by piece, almost with the client noticing sometimes, the odd road trip to pick up some papers that turned up from under the sofa, and moreover, an awful lot of sympathising when we hear the unfortunate sequence of events that led to the information being brought in at lunchtime on the 31st. Some people are just unlucky I guess, year after year.

All of this is part of the fun of January. We take pride in supporting our clients through the tax return process starting from the moment the tax year ends right up to the filing date.

As part of our service to you, you can expect us to let you know when a tax year has just finished and present you with a list of what we need from you, followed by periodic timely reminders for the information as the year progresses. We then prepare and submit your tax return and let you know exactly what you need to pay, by when, and how, and be on hand to immediately respond to any queries you may have. We aim to take the stress out of the tax return process and along the way we always keep our eye out for things that can be done to make your financial affairs more tax efficient.

Additionally, we’re always available to answer your more complex questions about tax, or just to have a chat about the tax implications of an idea that you’re thinking about.

We welcomed many new clients to us for the 2022/23 tax cycle, whom we are looking forward to assisting in the years ahead. For our newer client, we notice common areas of tax inefficiencies:

• Inefficient remuneration extraction of company profits

• Not using spouse’s lower tax bands for dividends/savings/investment income

• Not using part of spouse’s personal allowance

• Not making use of the tax efficiency of pension contributions, or not making a claim for the tax relief if you are a higher-rate taxpayer

• Not aware of the 60-day capital gains tax reporting thereby missing a capital gains return

• Not claiming all possible costs against rental income

• Unaware of Pension contribution Annual Allowance and the tax problems that can arise

• National Insurance/state pension accrual issues

We take an all-round approach and pick up on these issues with you to minimise your tax.

For this tax year, 2023/24, we will see some major changes for the self-employed. In the 2023/24 tax return cycle we will be faced with the introduction of the basis period reform which will have a significant impact on many sole traders. We will also see a general reduction to the tax-free allowances for dividends and a reduction to the capital gains annual exemption. With these adverse changes, it is important to plan your tax affairs effectively.

According to HMRC’s statistics, 1.1 million taxpayers didn’t hit the 31st January filing deadline. We already know who one of those individuals is, but if you’re part of the other 1 million and ninety-nine thousand nine hundred and ninety-nine then get in touch.

Ellis & Co-Director John Farrell said “It’s been another successful tax season for Melanie our Tax Manager (pictured) and the team at Ellis & Co and they have worked so hard to achieve the deadline for our clients. As mentioned, there was a bit of chasing to do but that is part of the process, plus we were able to pick up new clients along the way who required a tax return.

We now look to carry on the momentum at Ellis & Co and continue to provide a first-class service across audit, accounts and tax. If any of our members wish to speak to Melanie, please give the office a call on 01244 343504.”

According to HMRC’s statistics, 1.1 million taxpayers didn’t hit the 31st January filing deadline. We already know who one of those individuals is, but if you’re part of the other 1 million and ninetynine thousand nine hundred and ninetynine then get in touch.

Apprentices take centre stage at the Apprenticeship Awards

Hosted in the spacious rotunda at the College’s Ellesmere Port Campus and coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week, the event is a College tradition which rewards apprentices and educates guests about the continued importance that apprenticeships play across multiple sectors and industries.

Accepting her award for Retail and Commercial Enterprise Apprentice of the Year, 22-year-old Hairdressing apprentice Leah said: “I’m so happy! I’ve always wanted to work in the Hairdressing industry and an apprenticeship has allowed me to do that. I’ve had loads of amazing experiences through my apprenticeship, including working on celebrity clients and doing hair for PrettyLittleThing, so it’s been a massive achievement for me.”

As well as family and friends of the winners, Cheshire College also welcomed several of their employer partners to the event. Employers such as Greif (an industrial packaging products and services leader) and Unipart Rail (experts in new technology and supply chain solutions for the Rail Industry) were recognised for their ongoing support for apprenticeship programmes and commitment to upskilling their workforce. One of the employers honoured at the event was The Senate Group, who won the SME Employer of the Year Award.

Speaking of the company’s nomination, Janet Keeling, one of the directors from

The Senate Group said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have won this award; we passionately believe in the benefits of apprenticeships, not just for the individuals but for the wider business too.”

Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College said that the evening’s ceremony had been a great success and a perfect demonstration of why apprentices are so important:

“The past few years have been difficult for everyone, but upskilling young people is vital to the UK’s long-term recovery. We are passionate about apprenticeships here at Cheshire College and we have seen the change which they can make to individuals, companies and communities first-hand.

“All tonight’s winners should be very proud of themselves and they will no doubt go on to make significant contributions to their respective industries.”

To find out more about becoming an apprentice, join Cheshire College for an Open Evening on 20th March at the Crewe, Ellesmere Port, or Chester Campuses. Alternatively, apprentice hopefuls can visit www.ccsw.ac.uk/ apprenticeships

If you are an employer interested in benefitting from an apprentice, email employers@ccsw.ac.uk or call the employer hotline on 01244 656 555 or 01270 654 654.

Visit www.ccsw.ac.uk to find out more.

Some of Cheshire College –South & West’s most diligent and hard-working apprentices got the star treatment last month, as they attended the annual Apprenticeship Awards.

Full list of the 2024 Apprenticeship Award winners:

• Claire Morrell (Business Administration and Law Apprentice of the Year)

• Harley Moreton (Construction, Planning and Built Environment Apprentice of the Year)

• Kelly Pinches (Education and Training Apprentice of the Year)

• Jake Lynch (Engineering and Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year)

• Gemma Harrison (Health, Public Services and Care Apprentice of the Year)

• Eloise Mitchell (Partner Apprentice of the Year)

• Leah Jones (Retail and Commercial Enterprise Apprentice of the Year)

• James Sambrook (Cheshire College – South & West Apprentice of the Year)

• Mark McKenna (Award for Exceptional Contribution)

• Danielle Kidd (Award for Outstanding Progress)

• Greif (Employer of the Year)

• Unipart Rail (Apprentice Employer of the Year)

• The Senate Group (SME Employer of the Year)

Mock Interview Day a great benefit for pupils

Students at Queen’s Park High School in Chester recently gained some crucial experience and key employability skills as they took part in a mock interview day with sponsors of the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce’s Young Chamber programme.

12 business professionals from five Young Chamber Sponsors helped make the day a great success as students from both Years 11 & 13 took part in a mock interview to help prepare them for when they leave school, whether it be to College, Sixth Form, University or straight into employment. The aim of the mock interviews was to allow the students to gain experience and to learn some of the crucial skills needed for a successful interview.

Andrea Watts, Careers & Citizenship lead at Queen’s Park High, commented about the event: “We were thrilled to welcome Young Chamber sponsors from a wide range of organisations to conduct mock interviews with our Year 11 and 13 students. It was wonderful to see so many of our students smartly dressed and ready to engage in professional dialogue.

“The feedback from employers was fantastic and this valuable mock interview experience ensures our students are prepared for future interviews.”

It was wonderful to see so many of our students smartly dressed and ready to engage in professional dialogue.”

Girls in Computing Day inspires students!

The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce’s Young Chamber Programme recently helped to support Christleton High School’s, Girls in Computing Day.

This brilliant event is designed to highlight the many different roles in computing and to encourage girls to consider a career option in an area that has historically been viewed as a “male-dominated sector.”

Sharon Kelly-Ibrahim, part of the Business Systems Analyst Support Team at Atlas Copco, gave the Year 9 students a fascinating presentation about her role and how she got to where she is in her professional career, as well as

an insight into some of the qualifications and applications that she has supported. Sharon then helped the girls during workshops that included: Cipher, Programming, and Networks Challenges. Commenting following the event, Sharon said: “It was great to have such a large turnout of girls for this female-targeted event, the girls were very engaging and I thoroughly enjoyed my time. I hope I was able to inspire and encourage even one girl to take up Computing Science in the future and that they get as much out of this career as I have.”

I hope I was able to inspire and encourage even one girl to take up Computing Science in the future and that they get as much out of this career as I have.”

n Jane Kiely, Head of Marketing at Young Chamber sponsors Byotrol Technology Ltd providing a Queen’s Park High student with feedback during a mock interview.

n Sharon Kelly-Ibrahim providing advice and support to the Christleton High students during the workshop.

Recruitment talk helps prepare pupils for working Life

The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce’s Young Chamber programme was delighted to return to Castell Alun to deliver a talk to Year 13 students about the recruitment process.

The session was held by sponsor of the programme, Niamh Kelly, Director of The HR Dept Wrexham and Chester, and delivered to over 30 pupils. Niamh spoke through the full recruitment process from the writing of the initial advert by the employer to the application, interview and selection procedures.

Pinestar Ltd delivers Fairness & Development Workshop to students

West Cheshire & North Wales Young Chamber Sponsor, Pinestar Ltd, recently delivered a workshop to students at Chester International School during their latest ‘Theme Launch Days’.

These days involve the school’s students being taken off the regular timetable to take part in a carousel of skills-building activities that are focused on a specific global context. The theme for this day was ‘Fairness and Development’.

Director of Pinestar Ltd, Ian Wainwright, hosted an insightful workshop focused around this theme for seven different groups of students, ranging from Year 10’s to Year 13’s. Ian started each session by giving the students a warm-up activity where they had to match a list of famous celebrities to their first-ever job, this allowed the students to see how much development is possible from a first job.

Ian then gave the students a table which included some of the different types of job opportunities that were available to them when leaving education, these included: apprenticeships (large & small organisations), company-sponsored degrees, small business trainees and becoming self-employed. The students were split into groups and told to select one of the job opportunities and to note the positives and negatives of example jobs in that sector before feeding back their conclusions to Ian and the rest of the class.

Ian commented after the event: “This event was really well-run. All of the students engaged in my session and they provided a lot of excellent contributions and insight. I thoroughly enjoyed working with them as they started to consider what they may do, once they leave school.”

YOUNG CHAMBER

The aim of the session was to build awareness of the steps that pupils will need to go through when applying for jobs. Niamh spent time speaking about CVs, helping the pupils think about what skills are required and need to be noted in order to meet the job description.

Niamh commented: “Trying to get to grips with the ‘world of work’ can be a very daunting prospect for young people postCovid. They haven’t had the opportunity to get the work experience that their older counterparts had and so missed out on obtaining some crucial life skills.

“It’s important that employers not only understand that, but that they ensure they do everything they can to help young people to prepare for life after education. We see this as a crucial part of HR and we’re delighted to be able to support the Young Chamber initiative through our interview preparation workshops and mock interview participation.

n Ian Wainwright discussing the task with the Chester International School students.

Welcome to our new Young Chamber Sponsors

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.

The programme however would not be possible without the help of its sponsors! In the 2022-23 academic year the support

of Young Chamber sponsors was fantastic as 38 businesses and over 110 employees gave up a total of 170 business hours to help tackle the local skills gap, and this year, we hope that the programme can support even more students at schools & colleges across West Cheshire & North Wales.

If you are not a sponsor of the programme but you want to help the programme to continue to support students across our region, please email youngchamber@wcnwchamber.org.uk for more information.

n Niamh Kelly presenting to the Castell Alun students.

•

•

Getting Started with Theresa Winter Founder of PA Services Virtually

What’s in a name?

The name is quite simple really – Personal Assistants working largely virtually, although, occasionally we are asked to work on-site with our clients.

Your position?

Founder

About your business?

We work with small businesses and startups, assisting to free up their time. They outsource their admin to our small team so they can take care of the core tasks in their business. Researching, general admin, bank reconciliation plus a whole lot more!

About you!

I previously worked within the construction industry and was invited to work with a Senior Director.

While there, I discovered that subcontractors struggled to keep up with expected standards. I’d book out a meeting room and run 1-2-1 sessions for the subcontractors to help them get up to speed with the software packages.

Why start a business?

I realised that smaller companies and start-up businesses were struggling to keep up-to-date with their admin. They didn’t have the skills and left it to the last minute to attempt to complete admin tasks. Most didn’t start a business because they love paperwork!

The light bulb moment!

When my son started school, I had to leave my post as the construction industry didn’t really cater for part-time staff. I was still getting contacted by people from the sector who had heard of what I had been doing and I’d been recommended to help them drive their businesses forward. This was when I decided to start my own business and now work with businesses across the UK

Who is your ideal client/customer?

Anyone who is seeing rapid growth and is finding it difficult to cope with the admin side of things. We are currently working with a few engineers, a recruitment agency, tradespeople and a marketing agency, so our client base is varied.

Best moment so far?

When I took on my first Associate to help my clients. As the business has grown, I’ve taken on Associates to cope with business demand. I’m now working with a few Associates in the local area as well as one in Scotland. All have different strengths from bookkeeping to time management and are matched to our clients’ tasks.

Biggest challenges?

Trying to juggle the business as well as marketing, financials, legal and all other aspects of running a business. I’ve made connections in these areas and can now outsource anything that was holding me back.

Benefits of the Chamber Start-Up club since you joined?

I have met some great people with incredible businesses. We have built some solid relationships and I feel that it has helped me realise that I wasn’t alone when we were trying to get everything in place for our business. The sessions at the Start-Up Club are varied and when I attend, there is always something new to learn.

Lessons learnt…what would you do differently and why?

I would probably have started the business sooner! I’d thought about doing this a year before I took the plunge but held off procrastinating. Every day is different, and I have some great clients who value everything we do.

I have met some great people with incredible businesses. We have built some solid relationships and I feel that it has helped me realise that I wasn’t alone when we were trying to get everything in place for our business.”

New initiatives launched to connect employers, students and graduates

The Get a Graduate Job Scheme has been kick-started by the University to further support graduates and organisations with graduate-level, permanent positions to fill. The free service provides direct access for businesses and other organisations to a diverse talent pool and the support of the University’s Careers and Employability team to help to recruit to roles, including advertising vacancies and helping build brand awareness on its sites.

Kirsty Badrock, Employer Engagement Co-ordinator, said: “Could you recruit one of our talented graduates? If you have a role in your organisation which would suit a final year student, as they transition into the workplace on completion of their studies, or a recent graduate, please get in touch.”

Alongside this, the Business Growth Internships scheme has been introduced - part-funded internships offering a great opportunity for organisations to gain value and grow.

The initiative invites employers with a project that would be perfect for a student or recent graduate, to participate in University-run Workplace Experiences by hosting one or more students on an internship.

Workplace Experiences are the range of employer-hosted experiences consisting of internships, designed to help students and graduates become more employable.

Employers can offer Workplace Experiences to help students and graduates become more employable

New initiatives have been launched to connect employers with students and graduates from the University of Chester.

The Business Growth Internships are open to charities, non-profits, social enterprises/CICs (Community Interest Companies), start-ups, and SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) based in the UK.

Kirsty said: “These internships aim to support business growth and innovation by providing specific skills and knowledge that organisations may be missing. Our interns will offer insights, creativity, consultancy, and innovation, and will contribute to or lead a project.”

The internships will welcome applications from all UK-domicile current, undergraduate students at the University, across all disciplines, and will start in May or June 2024. The intern will undertake a 191-hour placement on a full-time basis for five weeks. These internships will be part-funded by the University, with 60% paid by the University, and an employer contribution of £800 (40%). Employers are asked to get in touch to discuss any Business Growth projects they may have, by the end of March. Other fullyfunded and part-funded schemes are also available.

The initiatives are both run by the Employer Engagement Team (EET), based within Careers and Employability at the University. The EET is a specialist group of staff dedicated to providing services to employers and is responsible for enabling interactions between employers, students,

Graduates add insights at careers event

focused on field of finance

University of Chester graduates leading the way in the field of finance shared experiences, insights and opportunities with students at a careers-boosting Business School event.

The Graduation and Beyond 2024 Accounting and Finance Conference brought together students and alumni now in senior roles to talk about their work, industries, graduate schemes, and offer advice.

With the demand for qualified Accounting and Finance professionals on the rise, the event held earlier this year at Queen’s Park, the home of the University of Chester’s Business School, highlighted options and support to achieve career goals.

Speakers included Ian Getty, Accounting and Finance graduate and now Management Accountant for Assets at Torus, the region’s largest affordable housing provider. He said: “I’m always happy to help and was thrilled to attend to pass on my knowledge and give back to the University of Chester.”

graduates and academics.

Expanding their portfolio last academic year, the EET introduced additional schemes which brought employers on-site. Employer in the Foyer events invite employers on-site to engage with students face-to-face and share their employment opportunities.

Additionally, Employers in the Curriculum offer different pathways to work with students within their programme of study, from 15-minute Careers Soundbites to Active and Authentic Learning, which involves employers through lectures, seminars, workshops, panel-sessions and conferences. Employers can share their employment opportunities, knowledge and expertise and complement teaching programmes as key influencers on students’ future career choices.

The team also oversees Vacancy Advertising through a self-managed online platform, CareerHub, which is free-to-use.

To find out more about being part of any of the schemes, please email: employers@chester.ac.uk.

Graduates’ Dragons’ Den success

University of Chester graduates enjoyed success on TV’s Dragons’ Den to gain investment in their pioneering eyewear venture.

Lina Tejoprayitno and Daniel Barnes, founders of Pop Specs, secured the backing of three Dragons when they appeared on the BBC show earlier this year.

Pop Specs aims to provide stylish and affordable prescription glasses which are ready to be fitted in as little as 20 minutes.

Lina and Dan met while studying for their Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) at the University and were finalists in the University’s Venture Pitch programme among other achievements. Since then, they have gone on to open in locations across England and Scotland, including Chester Market.

Protos Networks achieves Cisco Premier Provider Partner Status

Hello Chamber Members. We’ve got some fantastic news to share with you all; we’re thrilled to announce that Protos Networks has achieved Cisco Premier Provider Partner status!

Why does Cisco Premier Provider Partner matter?

Protos Networks is a next-gen Cisco partner, reinforced by our 24/7 Network Operations Centre (NOC) and 24/7 Security Operations Centre (SOC) Services. We pride ourselves on our network and security operations solutions; this achievement and recognition directly reflect the excellence we provide to our clients with these services.

Protos is keen to set itself apart with our technical proficiency and commitment to understanding our client’s unique journeys. Our team goes beyond conventional service provision and creates customised success plans that integrate measurable success metrics, robust feedback processes, and ongoing improvement plans. We believe this approach addresses current needs and sets the foundation for sustained success and strong client relationships.

Our path to Cisco Premier Provider Partner status

Over the past six months, Protos Networks embarked on the journey to achieve Cisco Premier Provider Partner status. This transformative process required our team to undergo new levels of training, achieve advanced certifications, and establish a proven track record of successful Cisco deployments and management.

Central to our success was the strategic collaboration with key figures at Cisco. Our team continually worked with our Cisco Vertical Partner Account Manager (VPAM) and Cisco Business Solutions Architect. This collaborative effort allowed us to align our

strategies with Cisco’s vision and standards, ensuring that we not only met but exceeded the requirements outlined in the service requirements.

Our partnership with Comstor UK, a trusted Cisco distributor, was pivotal in our journey. Their support, guidance, and access to essential resources significantly contributed to our success.

Throughout the process, our focus on continuous improvement was relentless. Regular interactions with Cisco and Comstor allowed us to receive invaluable feedback. This iterative approach ensured we met the initial requirements and consistently elevated our capabilities to provide industry-leading managed network and security services and solutions.

Elevating service excellence

Achieving Cisco Premier Provider Partner status highlights the excellence of Protos Networks’ networking and security solutions. One of the critical areas for success was leveraging our internal ticketing and case management system and processes for our managed service clients.

Our internal infrastructure plays a crucial role in streamlining issue resolution, ensuring that we meet the client’s agreed service level response times and enhance the overall reliability of our managed network, security, and incident response services.

Protos Networks will remain at the forefront of network and security technology, backed by the expertise gained during this transformative journey with Cisco and Comstor. Our clients can further trust

our capabilities to deliver unparalleled managed service excellence that exceeds expectations.

“The achievement of Cisco Premier Provider Partner status is a significant milestone for us and shows Protos Networks’ commitment to continually improving our managed service offerings to our clients. It’s a very exciting time at Protos Networks, and we are leading the way as a next-gen managed network and security company. We can’t wait to take current and new clients on the journey with us!” Damien Sansom- Sales Director

How our managed services transform client experiences

1.Robust managed solutions

Elevated by our Cisco Premier Provider Partner status, Protos Networks takes pride in offering our clients a robust and dependable managed network and security solution. These services translate to heightened security measures, enhanced scalability, and optimal performance tailored to meet the diverse needs of all businesses, regardless of size or complexity.

Our managed services go beyond the ordinary, ensuring seamless operations and empowering businesses for sustained growth.

2. Expert consultation via 24/7 Network and Security Operations Centre

With a team of Cisco-certified experts, Protos Networks now provides a more profound level of consultation, ensuring our clients receive custom-tailored solutions aligned precisely with their unique business requirements and challenges.

What sets us apart is our commitment to accessibility—our 24/7 Network Operations Centre (NOC) and Security Operations Centre (SOC) ensure continuous support and expert guidance, delivering peace of mind.

3. Future-ready infrastructure planning

As a Premier Provider Partner, Protos Networks is not just a managed service provider but a strategic partner in guiding clients towards building future-ready IT infrastructures, including the seamless integration of transformative technologies such as cloud computing, IoT, and artificial intelligence strategically positioned to drive business success in the dynamic era of digital innovation and sustainability.

Connect with us:

We are thrilled to share this exciting news with you and invite you to connect with us on LinkedIn and sign up for monthly newsletters and threat roundups via www.protosnetworks.com

n L to R: Damien Sansom, Darren Kewley, Sean Kinsella and Joe Joinson

Ed Booth

Managing Director Tiger Trailers

WCNW: To begin, tell us a little about yourself and your background.

From Cumbria, but based in North Wales now, I’m married with three daughters and one grandson. I have a degree in Business Management and am a qualified Chartered Accountant.

Apart from a spell as a process improvement consultant, my career has been in manufacturing, spanning bathrooms, pharmaceuticals, agricultural equipment and now trailers, mainly in finance/FD/VP and more recently MD roles.

I’m a keen tennis player, still playing for Wrexham 1st team in the Chester and District Men’s Tennis league, and also enjoy walking, spending time with family, and music - mainly indie, including going to gigs.

WCNW: What attracted you to the company?

I met the founders towards the end of Covid lockdown on Teams and then in person, and it was clear the company had put in place a very strong business model with a great product range, and a fantastic production and office facility - so a lot of the building blocks were in place to take Tiger to the next level. Although you can never really know a culture until you start, I just got the feeling it would be a good fit for Tiger and myself. Luckily, they did too!

WCNW: What are your main responsibilities?

I spent around seven months as FD and then became MD as the founders wanted to take more of a board advisory role. The directors and leadership team oversee daily operations and work on strategy for the next 3-5 years.

WCNW: What does a typical day involve?

It’s varied, which I like. We have some standard weekly meetings like production performance and monthly financial reviews, important for measuring our performance and taking actions. But concurrently we’re an extremely entrepreneurial company, able to quickly push ideas forward, from enhancing capacity or developing a new product, to our many CSR activities. We work very closely but with minimal hierarchy, which is a spirit extremely important to us.

We work with most of the biggest parcel carriers, supermarkets and logistics providers. Our aim is to provide premium trailers on time to a tailored specification, with efficiency and environment in mind, from cargo capacity and loading speed, to journey reduction and lightweight materials.

Tiger Trailers depot in Winsford

WCNW: Who is your target audience and what is the main aim of the organisation?

We work with most of the biggest parcel carriers, supermarkets and logistics providers. Our aim is to provide premium trailers on time to a tailored specification, with efficiency and environment in mind, from cargo capacity and loading speed, to journey reduction and lightweight materials.

WCNW: What projects are you currently working on?

Many people don’t realise that Tiger also builds rigid bodywork solutions including temperature-controlled products (partly manufactured by our Spanish partners Lecitrailer) which are currently once again shaping up to be significant areas of order volume throughout 2024 and beyond. As our main show this year, we’re excited to have confirmed attendance as exhibitors at TCS&D’s Cold Chain Hub at Birmingham NEC in October.

We experience first hand how a CSR focus boosts togetherness, and annually we hold fundraising and awareness events for various Cheshire Community Foundation charities, including enrichment club tours and role-playing to inspire underprivileged youngsters to consider careers in transport. Last year, we joined Women in Transport to encourage more women to join manufacturing and logistics roles.

Sustainability is also a core focus, from actively sourcing wood from suppliers who manage renewable forests, to planting a tree for every Tiger product bought – an initiative we began in 2022. We first installed solar panels on our roof in 2022, doubling capacity in 2024.

WCNW: How have things gone so far?

Really well - we are pleased with our progress. 2023 proved another recordbreaker for turnover, with our order book revealing stronger than ever demand.

WCNW: Any difficulties? If so, how did you overcome them?

The market faces uncertainty due to interest rates and inflation, changes to haulier profiles, and global unrest. We remain confident though, with excellent relationships with our suppliers and customers - so together with our excellent people, we continue to deliver.

WCNW: Did you ever think ‘I’ve taken on too big a risk’? If so, how did you overcome it?

Quite a few times! I think it’s important to reflect and ask questions like these when you embark on any challenge. I think the important thing, whether a new project or team as examples, is to get the help you need to put the structure, process and great people in place for the best chance of success. You can’t do it all on your own. When I have led large projects in big organisations, from shared service centre

implementations to acquisitions, this is what I have tried to do alongside having good sponsors and knowing and managing the key stakeholders. It’s good for development to come out of your comfort zone. This is why it helps to be part of a company and within a culture that allows you to try things and learn from them, to get the eventual best result. I have been fortunate to work for a few organisations that have been this way including Tiger.

WCNW: Looking ahead, what are your main aims for the organisation and how would you like it to develop?

We are increasingly centring our approach around people, ensuring they have the tools, conditions, processes and structure to be their best. When people are happy in their work and feel supported, they often overperform. We have a lot of hard work ahead but I’m convinced this will strengthen the platform for future business growth.

The market faces uncertainty due to interest rates and inflation, changes to haulier profiles, and global unrest. We remain confident though, with excellent relationships with our suppliers and customers - so together with our excellent people, we continue to deliver.

WCNW: How have businesses and individuals responded to what you’re offering?

Positively, we would say. We also have a small rental fleet to help existing and new customers with peak requirements, and to help customers bridge any gaps when ordering new trailers. We also have a Tiger Finance division providing operating lease, HP, etcetera - a total solution.

WCNW: Are there any particular people, business leaders or others you look up to? What have you learned from them?

There are no particular people I look up to but there are lots of people I learn from past and present; ones I haven’t met but read about, from all aspects of life, business, music, sport, etcetera, and I learn from people I meet daily, with different approaches, perspectives and solutions. I’ve had some great managers, mentors and coaches and worked with some great people. Some I didn’t always agree with, but I feel I learnt something from them all.

WCNW: What are your career aims and aspirations? Is there anything else in particular you’d like to achieve in your lifetime?

I don’t look too far ahead personally, but my whole career has centred around strategic plans, looking into the future for businesses. Career-wise, if I’m enjoying it, learning, developing, and we’re on an exciting journey of improvement, then I’m happy. Although I’m 50, I think that I can still play decent tennis! So, when retirement finally comes, it would be great along with lots of family time, to play some tournaments around the world on the ITF seniors tour.

WCNW: What message would you give to other people in business?

Be respectful with people - they usually reciprocate. Don’t do people’s jobs for them. Encourage, support and help them to develop, then amazing things happen. Work hard, work smart, keep things simple, stay grounded and have some fun.

Tiger Trailers works with some of the biggest parcel carriers, supermarkets and logistics providers in the UK

A oes gan eich busnes weledigaeth werdd?

A oes gan eich busnes weledigaeth werdd?

Does your business have a green ambition?

Does your business have a green ambition?

Hoffech chi gael cymorth gydag arbedion effeithlonrwydd a lleihau eich allyriadau carbon busnes?

Hoffech chi gael cymorth gydag arbedion effeithlonrwydd a lleihau eich allyriadau carbon busnes?

Gyda phecynnau adnoddau ac astudiaethau achos ar gael, dysgwch sut allwch gymryd camau cadarnhaol i ysgogi newid o fewn eich busnes.

Gyda phecynnau adnoddau ac astudiaethau achos ar gael, dysgwch sut allwch gymryd camau cadarnhaol i ysgogi newid o fewn eich busnes.

03000 6 03000

busnescymru.llyw.cymru businesswales.gov.wales

Would you like support with efficiency savings and reducing your carbon emissions?

Would you like support with efficiency savings and reducing your carbon emissions?

With resource packs and case studies available, explore how you can take positive steps to implement change within your own business.

With resource packs and case studies available, explore how you can take positive steps to implement change within your own business.

An Insight into Moneyworks Wales

helping your staff build financial resilience in the workplace

My name is Sandy Highfield and I work for Moneyworks Wales an awardwinning ethical payroll savings scheme supported by Welsh Government.

When my son fell victim to high-interest lending after using various payday lenders, I realized there was a lack of understanding around APRs and fees for payday loans in the workplace.

After a life-changing accident and losing the ability to repay the money he owed, I realised how mercenary and cold debt collectors can be when trying to reclaim money owed. Employers do not always understand how wrong decisions around finance and debt can affect staff, particularly their mental health.

Debt is something people are ashamed of and rarely discuss. Pay, particularly in the public sector, has reduced in real terms and incomes are falling. Debt is continuing to rise and, for the first time ever in Wales, half the requests for support from Citizens Advice Cymru in 2023 were from those in a negative budgeting situation where household bills outstrip income.

*This is having worsening impacts on people’s health and wellbeing. Research from the Bevan Foundation shows that over half of the people in Wales reported that their mental health was affected by their financial position, with a third saying the rising costs of living were causing them substantial stress and anxiety.

Moneyworks Wales is an award-winning payroll service for employers and employees offering savings and lowinterest loans to staff in the workplace. As ethical, financial cooperatives, we are pulling together our resources to try to improve the financial well-being of Welsh workers with Moneyworks being the umbrella organisation for Wales’s leading cooperatives.

“Moneyworks Wales is a collaboration between the country’s leading financial cooperatives. We are a group of credit unions committed to improving the financial well-being of Welsh workers.” Some organisations have a culture of payday lending within their workplace

as staff are not always aware of any alternatives.

Encouraging employees to improve their financial well-being through Moneyworks, and providing the means to do so, can positively impact the business itself and discourage staff from making wrong decisions around finance. One of our main aims is to highlight the difference between good and bad credit and the importance of creating good savings habits.

The CIPD found that one in four workers said that money worries had affected their ability to do their jobs.

Businesses can benefit by playing a role in encouraging their employees to prioritise their financial wellness and to understand the difference between good and bad credit.

Moneyworks works collaboratively with organisations across Wales, such as the Money Advice and Pensions Service, to help improve financial resilience in the workplace.

Moneyworks Wales is a collaboration between the country’s leading financial cooperatives. We are a group of credit unions committed to improving the financial well-being of Welsh workers.”

As ethical lenders, we can offer your staff the opportunity to borrow and save directly from their salary which enables them to access fair-priced loans and actively encourages them to save directly from their salary before it hits the bank account. As ethical lenders, Moneyworks has your staff’s financial well-being at the centre of the Free Service we offer.

When you contact Moneyworks Wales, we will guide you through the process of setting up a payroll scheme and provide you with all the information you need to embed it in your staff wellbeing package. Along with free leaflets and posters to promote the scheme in the workplace, all we ask for you to do is supply us with a Moneyworks mentor who would be responsible for ensuring the scheme was promoted and would signpost to our website.

Whether you want your staff want to put aside money for a special occasion, start a rainy-day fund or need a loan, we are here to help. Payments come directly from staff’s salary meaning they never miss a payment which is good for people with bad money management. We actively encourage members to save whilst paying back their loans to ensure good financial habits. Please visit www.moneyworkswales.com for more information.

n Moneyworks Wales was awarded the prestigious Access to Financial Services at the 2023 Credit Unions of Wales awards with delivering ethical, affordable financial services through payroll deduction.

Pictured: Sandy Highfield and Rizwan Shams, Moneyworks Development officers

Why employee engagement is only part of the employee experience

Employee engagement measures the relationship between employee and organisation. It attempts to measure the enthusiasm and motivation to further the best interests of the organisation.

To us, employee engagement exists at the intersection between intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation at work. Some view this as a proxy for productivity, while others may confuse the term with employee experience. So, today Think Beyond discuss why employee engagement is only part of the employee experience.

Measuring employee engagement

In general, an organisation with high employee engagement may be expected to outperform an organisation with low employee engagement. Alas, the same can be said for individuals, with high employee engagement implying ‘bought in’ and productive. Typically, employee engagement is measured via survey. The questions range from asking about how plans are communicated to how successfully groups collaborate. If the overall index is high, management look for ‘hot spots’ of problems. Where the index is low in a particular team or department, the problem may be the manager.

Unfortunately, such a survey is potentially

vulnerable to a whole range of weaknesses. These might include the context of the individual at the time they complete the survey to the way the questions are worded. Similarly, not all employees believe that such a survey is anonymous. This can give rise to misleading responses, hiding the real issues and rising the potential to jump to conclusions or to sow suspicion as to the motivations behind the survey.

Employee experience is broader than employee engagement

To some, this point is blindingly obvious.

To others, it may come as a surprise. Your employee experience is much broader than employee engagement. Engagement is the result of a person’s intrinsic motivations mated to their extrinsic influences. In truth, most managers and organisations fail to understand the intrinsic motivators of their people. They simply do not spend the time delving deep enough to uncover what makes them ‘tick’. That leaves the extrinsic influences that may or may not motivate them to perform and strive to further your interests.

Building an engaging employee experience

Employee experience is both contextual and the result of an elaborate mix of extrinsic influences. The trouble is that you don’t know which ones are pulling in a negative direction and which are positive. Some may cost nothing to fix whereas others may require sizeable upheaval to achieve. Thanks to breakthroughs in neuroscience, such perceptions, associations and emotions can be measured through studies to help us understand the extrinsic motivators. Maybe the problem is the manager. Maybe it is the job tasks. Perhaps a slow system, a lack of training, flexi-desking, claiming expenses or the culture itself that drives low engagement. Either way, we need to measure the real root causes if we truly want to improve it.

With a combination of anonymous surveys, blind interviews and neuroscience studies online, we can start building an experience that encourages engaged employees so let us help you put employee experience improvement as one of your strategic goals.

iPET Network awarded grant funding to help support development of a series of animal-related qualifications

In an effort to offer accessible qualifications in growth industries, including Dog Grooming and Animal Care, iPET Network has received funding from Qualifications Wales’ Welsh Language Support Grant to create five new qualifications.

The qualifications that will be available bilingually are:

• iPET Network Level 1 Award in Preparing for Work in Dog Grooming

• iPET Network Level 2 Diploma Animal Care and Management

• iPET Network Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid

• iPET Network Level 3 Award in Equine Emergency First Aid

• iPET Network Level 2 Award in First Aid for Dogs

The qualifications will enable learners for whom Welsh is their preferred language to have the opportunity to learn and complete the qualifications in Welsh. With the support of iPET Networks approved Training Providers, the qualifications will be designated for funding allowing those who can teach and train in Welsh the option to register learners.

Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty, founders of iPET Network, said: “We are so thrilled to be offering these new qualifications in Wales, and hope that more colleges sign up to deliver them.

“The largest development in education offering for the sector will be the roll out of the iPET Network Level 2 Diploma Animal Care and Management. Development of

this qualification started over two years ago taking feedback from colleges of how the current qualifications being delivered could be improved. We always like to be different, so we have created all the workbooks, assessment documentation and resources to support effective delivery of this new qualification.”

“As well as being more accessible for those who’s preferred language is Welsh, the qualifications are far more based on becoming ready for work than anything else out there and smaller qualifications to support additional learning.”

Dr. Alex Lovell, Qualifications Manager at Qualifications Wales, said: “We are pleased to have awarded grant funding to iPET Network to ensure that these brand-new qualifications will be available in both Welsh and English from the point of first delivery.

“Providing an active and equal offer to learners in Wales from the outset reflects best practice and increases the likelihood that learners will take up new qualifications in Welsh.

“We are grateful to iPET Network for working collaboratively with us in our work to increase the availability of Welsh-medium qualifications.”

n L to R: Fern Gresty and Sarah Mackay, founders of iPET Network

New jobs on the horizon at region’s ‘best kept secret’

A family-owned manufacturing company celebrating more than two decades in business is planning for expansion and creating new jobs.

News of further growth at Corwen-based Neatcrown comes after the firm won the prestigious Co-Manufacturer and Packer of the Year title at the UK Packaging Awards. Business Development Manager Karen Jones attended the event, and said the group’s commitment to customer service, quality, and the performance of its “incredible team” have led to sustained success.

With a 39,000 sq ft warehouse, laboratory and headquarters sited on 2.5 acres in the picturesque Denbighshire town, Neatcrown – which employs up to 40 staff and is accredited to ISO 9001:2015 – has big plans for the future.

“We are probably one of the best kept secrets in the region and have grown significantly over recent years,” said Karen. “As a contract manufacturer, we work with a lot of distributors and companies that have their own brands, helping them to develop products via our onsite laboratory

and ultimately manufacturing them, before they are sent out for sale across the UK and internationally.

“For that and the hard work of the incredible team we have here to be recognised with such an amazing award is a great privilege, so we thank the judges for this accolade.”

Established by the Griffiths family in 2002, Neatcrown Corwen Ltd began to diversify pre-pandemic to focus primarily on growth within the agriculture sector, notably crop nutrition, bio-stimulants, and innovative methods to drive sustainability in farming, having been manufacturing horticultural products at the site for more than four decades.

While expansion continues, the company is renowned for its flexible and reactive approach – switching to disinfectant manufacturing during the first wave of Covid-19 kept the business operational –and partnerships across a wide range of sectors.

CEO Colin Roberts said innovation and forging new relationships centred on advances in technology and sustainability are vital moving forward.

“Given the changing environment, climate change and other global factors, collaboration is pivotal to our continued success,” he said.

“We work with a wide range of organisations, co-manufacturing their products, packaging them and helping to develop them – it’s an end-to-end journey and experience for us, and for the customer.”

Colin added: “Neatcrown is growing, and not just in terms of revenue and reputation but also the jobs we are creating for skilled, passionate workers in what is a remote, rural area.

“We want to continue supporting the local economy as a key employer in the area, building our name and raising standards, for ourselves and the industry.”

Nightingale House welcomes patients into their newly modernised Inpatient Unit

Senior Nurse Julie Lloyd explained, “It’s like being a kid at Christmas…We’ve all been waiting so long to see the new Inpatient Unit. It looks absolutely fabulous! Knowing we are going to care for patients in this environment, I am so proud to work here.” Health Care Support Worker, Michelle Constantine added, “Everyone is quite emotional about the new Inpatient Unit. It looks even better than we ever imagined.”

Staff, volunteers, and trustees were delighted to get the first glimpses of the new facility at the handover from Read Construction, who, along with TACP and many other sub-contractors, have been working tirelessly to complete the building work since April 2023.

Chair of the Board of Trustees at Nightingale House, Eluned Griffiths, discussed the project, “I want to express my sincere thanks to all involved and the staff at Nightingale House who played a key role in leading this project.

“We have been able to deliver an exceptional, state-of-the-art facility that will provide invaluable care for patients in the local community with palliative or lifelimiting conditions for many years to come.”

The staff at Read Construction have also been eager to raise money for Nightingale House Hospice through various activities, and have raised over £5,000, as well as refurbishing the clinical staff toilet area, which was not included in the modernisation plans free of charge.

Read Construction Contracts Manager, Damian Bryan said, “Working with

Nightingale House Hospice on their modernisation programme over the past few years has been fantastic. We are really pleased that we could be part of such an important project, creating a modern, welcoming, first-class environment for the local community to be cared for in their time of need.”

Donations from the public have helped Nightingale House Hospice fund the modernisation of their Inpatient Unit. Laura Hughes, Ward Manager, shared her gratitude, “We are all in awe of how the public continues to support our appeal and have raised an incredible amount of money so far, but it just keeps going up, and the funds are still very much needed to complete the finishing touches… The new facilities will allow us to care for patients long into the future.”

n Members of the Neatcrown team, collecting the Co-Manufacturer and Packer of the Year award at the ceremony in London

n Lounge & Kitchen area in the brand-new unit

Our Net Zero journey Llandudno Bay Hotel

We’re introducing a new regular feature into our magazine where we’ll be highlighting businesses and organisations that are leading the way on the path to Net Zero. This segment will offer insights, hints and tips for readers as the UK works toward its 2050 Net Zero target.

We hear from Andrew Plimmer, Group Development & Communications Manager at Everbright Hotels, on how their environmental policy has helped reduce Co2 emissions by 84%.

Tell us the background of Llandundo Bay Hotel

In September 2021, Everbright Hotel Group acquired the Llandudno Bay Hotel. The property had been closed prior to the pandemic and was in very poor condition throughout.

Comprising 61 bedrooms, public areas, and function space over approximately 1800 square metres of floor space, the Llandudno Bay Hotel was to benefit from substantial refurbishment before reopening. How does sustainability play a part in your long-term strategy?

Everbright Hotels are committed to the principles of Responsible Tourism, playing our role to reduce the environmental impact of travel and tourism. The company have been accredited with the

Green Key Award in recognition of the operational practices that help to reduce environmental impact whilst acting with the interest of our immediate neighbours and the region.

Our investment resulted in sourcing solutions to the reduction of energy consumption at Llandudno Bay Hotel, resulting in an 84% reduction in Co2 emissions. This methodology is being rolled out throughout the group and we are delighted to share our experience with the wider business community.

What were the challenges you faced when you acquired Llandudno Bay Hotel?

95% of the central heating system was via electric heaters, 50% of the hot water system was electric and 50% was gas supplied. There was insufficient water

n The Llandudno Bay Hotel has been through an incredible transformation as part of their Net

Our investment resulted in sourcing solutions to the reduction of energy consumption at Llandudno Bay Hotel, resulting in an 84% reduction in Co2 emissions.

pressure to the upper floor rooms. As a result of the hotel had been closed, there were no contracts in place for electricity and gas. However, records showed that utility costs were over £100,000 for the 12 months prior to closure with re-opening quotations at three times this price.

What sustainability changes did you make as part of the re-opening process?

Installation of a new central heating system ‘green energy’ ready comprising of several changes with key changes highlighted below.

The original calculations of cost reduction in relation to the central heating and hot water supply were forecasted to fall following the full project implementation from £106.5k to £14.2k.

Similarly, corresponding Co2 emissions were estimated to reduce from 112.7 tonnes to 17.5 tonnes with the introduction of Photovoltaic (PV) panels supplemented by Thermodynamic panels which convert the PV panels energy into heat.

The use of copper & aluminium THERMATE radiators reduces the amount of water used in the central heating system from 2,500 Litres in the previous system, down to approx. 650 Litres in the new system – 75 % less. The efficiency gains from this are:

• Less water to heat and a more rapid heating of the property from 50mins to 10 mins from start.

• The system operates at a reduced water temperature from 65–70*C down to 50 – 52*C.

Installation of multizone Central Heating controllers in each bedroom with window sensors and individual wall thermostats to control radiators. The thermostats are set at 21*C for each bedroom, falling to 15*C if the room is unoccupied by guests.

All bedroom and public area temperatures are visible to the hotels management & reception who can manually control the movement in temperature if residents require an adjustment.

Electrical voltage optimiser is an ingenious device that reduces electrical usage. The UK national grid works to a power output of 242v within the network. However, electrical equipment is designed to work at European standards where the power supply is standardised at 220v.

The optimiser is attached to the buildings main inward electrical board and balances the power distribution from the higher voltage to the lower.

In addition to the cost savings, estimated to be £500 per month, the life of the electrical

equipment is extended by operating at a more consistent, lower power.

What are the results of the changes that have been implemented?

The combined outcomes of the 12-month pilot between April 2022 and March 2023 produced the following actual gas & electricity costs based upon meter readings and supplier invoices (net):

Electric - £62,448

Gas - £19,936

The costs are lower than those operated pre-covid by the business and potentially up to 3x lower than quoted upon reopening. In addition, when fully implemented, the process seamlessly produces significant reductions in Co2 emissions.

We are delighted that this implementation of our environmental policy has resulted in providing our guests and visitors with the opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint through choosing to stay at our hotels, spas and dining experiences.

Any tips for other businesses on their Net Zero journey?

Don’t spend money on upgrading energy generation if you are not going to control it correctly. Look at what you have and how you manage it.

Green energy and low carbon emission systems can work in old buildings, it just needs to be sized correctly.

Review the market and engage with independent companies before making decisions

For more information, please contact Andrew Plimer:

Andrew@everbrightgroup.co.uk

All bedroom and public area temperatures are visible to the hotels management & reception who can manually control the movement in temperature if residents require an adjustment.

International trade support keeps flowing in 2024!

Our range of International Trade support for West Cheshire & North Wales businesses has continued throughout the start of 2024 with our latest BCC accredited training courses and Hot Topic sessions continuing to supply attendees with the vital knowledge that they need to successfully trade with international markets.

In January we held the latest edition of our International Trade Hot Topic, a one-hour-long online insight designed to keep importers and exporters up to date with the ever-changing world of international trade, and to provide them with an opportunity to ask the questions that their businesses need to know!

During this year’s maiden session, we provided attendees with a preview of some of the International Trade headlines for 2024. As International Trade is continually evolving, this was

a great opportunity to provide attendees with the key dates, information, and changes that are being implemented throughout the year by both government policy and global factors.

Planning is underway to ensure that current and topical issues are covered throughout the year, and the next session is taking place on 17th April, this session will cover Net Zero for International Trade.

Visit our website to find out more information.

Brexit at three: Fresh trade challenges growing

• Almost two-thirds (60%) of firms trading with the EU say it is now more difficult to do so than it was a year ago.

• Almost half (49%) of exporters disagree the Brexit deal is helping them grow sales.

• Two-fifths (41%) of firms exporting under the Brexit deal say they face difficulties adapting to its rules on buying and selling goods.

• The BCC has sent the Government a new report setting out pragmatic solutions to many of the issues.

• A new survey by the BCC’s Insights Unit of 733 businesses (97% SMEs) shows the difficulties facing British firms in using the Trade and Co-operation Agreement (TCA) have not eased.

The BCC report also highlights a fresh set of challenges approaching as UK and EU regulations diverge, creating further headaches for traders on both sides of the Channel.

The TCA was agreed on Christmas Eve in 2020 to allow tariff-free trade with the EU once Brexit took effect.

But a high proportion of businesses say trade with Europe in 2023 is now more difficult than it was a year ago.

The BCC has sent the Government its report examining the main issues the TCA is causing for firms with possible solutions to many of the problems.

The survey also found that 35% of firms buying and selling services faced difficulties due to the Brexit deal, while a lack of recognition for professional

qualifications was exercising 27% of firms.

And awareness of upcoming changes in trade rules and regulations being made by either the UK or the EU was alarmingly low, with 80% or more of firms knowing no details of the legislation.

This includes knowledge of the Electronic Trade Documents Act, Export Health Certificate requirements, new labelling requirements, the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, new checks on food imports, safety and security requirements for EU imports, UKCA and CE marking, and new EU VAT laws.

The BCC’s TCA Three Years On report sets out 26 recommendations to improve UK-EU trade.

The survey also found that 35% of firms buying and selling services faced difficulties due to the Brexit deal, while a lack of recognition for professional qualifications was exercising 27% of firms.

Chamber’s upcoming International Trade Training Course dates

Our British Chamber of Commerce accredited International Trade Training Courses give delegates a clear understanding of the key areas that underpin the world of International Trade.

These courses run twice a year and the latest sessions are underway now!

View our upcoming training course dates below:

20th March:

BCC Introduction to Import

10th April:

BCC Methods of Payment and Letters of Credit.

24th April:

BCC Customs Procedures and Documentation.

28th May:

BCC Customs Special Procedures.

5th June:

BCC Understanding Rules of Origin.

12th September:

BCC Introduction to the Export Process.

25th September:

BCC Incoterms ® 2020 Rules.

9th October:

BCC Understanding Commodity Codes.

16th October:

BCC Export Documentation

Visit our website or email

internationaltrade@wcnwchamber.org.uk

Chester small business celebrated at House of Lords

ePay Merchant Services was one of the small businesses invited to join a special reception at the House of Lords, to celebrate Small Business Saturday 2023.

The campaign celebrates small business success and encourages people to ‘shop local’ and support businesses in their communities.

Hosted by Small Business Saturday, the event at parliament honoured ePay Merchant Services as part of this year’s SmallBiz100.

The SmallBiz100 is a line-up of 100 brilliant small businesses from all over the country, which have been spotlighted in the leadup to Small Business Saturday.

ePay Merchant Services was featured in recognition of their inspiring entrepreneurial journey, which has seen them growing their own business, supporting others and putting Cheshire on the map.

Sam Cameron, Co-Founder of ePay, said: “We are delighted to be chosen as one of the Small Biz 100. We have enjoyed meeting other small business owners.”

Small business owners from this year’s SmallBiz100 line-up and MPs from across the political spectrum came together at the reception, with the Shadow Secretary of State for Business and Industrial Strategy

Jonathan Reynolds speaking at the event and meeting many entrepreneurs.

Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK, said: “We really enjoyed hosting this special event at the House of Lords and marking the success of ePay Merchant Services, as well as seeing Small Business Saturday into its second decade in the UK.

On Small Business Saturday, customers across the UK go out and support all types of small businesses, online, in offices and in stores; from independent shops and restaurants to small service and b2b businesses like accountants and plumbers. Many small businesses celebrate the day by hosting events, offering promotions, and collaborating with other small businesses.”

Women in Manufacturing: Celebrating our impact

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global holiday celebrated annually. This year, under the theme #InspireInclusion, we are taking the opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of women worldwide and their invaluable contribution to society.

At Remsdaq, a Welsh-based manufacturing company with a family focus, we embrace International Women’s Day with immense pride. For us, it is about spotlighting the indispensable role women play in helping to drive our company forward and shape our culture of inclusivity and innovation. Through our commitment to #InspireInclusion, we aim to create a workplace where everyone, regardless of their gender, feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

Breaking Barriers

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in employment as more women have entered the manufacturing sector and challenged existing stereotypes.

At Remsdaq, women are driving innovation across all aspects of our company, including engineering, design, sales, HR, administration and health & safety.

Driving Economic Growth

The contributions of women in manufacturing extend beyond the factory floor. As key decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts, women are pivotal in driving economic growth and competitiveness in the UK. Their expertise, ingenuity, and determination are instrumental in propelling the manufacturing sector forward, creating jobs, driving innovation, and strengthening the country’s position in the global market.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Most importantly, women in manufacturing serve as role models, inspiring the next generation to pursue STEM careers. Through outreach programs, mentorship initiatives, and educational partnerships, they are actively working to bridge the gender gap and cultivate a diverse and inclusive workforce for the future.

We really enjoyed hosting this special event at the House of Lords and marking the success of ePay Merchant Services, as well as seeing Small Business Saturday into its second decade in the UK.”

Empowering Female Talent

Our commitment to #InspireInclusion is evident in the diverse talents of our female team members. In engineering, a female engineer brings a unique perspective, fuelling innovation in our product development. Our sales and marketing department has a woman expanding our global presence with strategic insight. Behind the scenes, in finance, purchasing, administration, and HR, skilled women ensure smooth operations. In our SHEQ department, vigilant women uphold health and safety protocols. In manufacturing, we have dedicated female operatives and wirepersons who contribute to highquality production on our shop floor.

Conclusion

The contributions of women at Remsdaq and within the manufacturing industry are invaluable and deserving of recognition. As we honour the achievements of women on this IWD, let us continue to empower female leaders, inspire future generations, and create a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

HM3 Legal celebrates 10 new promotions

The New Year began at HM3 Legal by announcing 10 promotions. The double-digit promotions took effect from January 1st celebrating three new senior associates and seven new associates.

This news recognises their exceptional legal expertise and providing of the firm’s signature WOW service to SME business clients and individuals. The big reveal took place at the Christmas party when MD Lindsey Kidd, made the announcement and presented each colleague with a surprise envelope containing a business card showing their new title.

Three New Senior Associates

In response to her promotion Rachael Piggott was “delighted and thrilled” to receive the news. As a commercial lawyer, her personable approach is recognised as well as her ability to find ‘red flags’ in contracts and terms, reducing risk and increasing legal protection for businesses. Michael Richards is “incredibly proud” of his promotion, reflecting his excellent customer care while achieving a commercial recovery success rate of 97% for clients – including recovering £2 million from outstanding invoices for one business alone. “Just incredible and a wonderful surprise” was how Wendy Randall, Probate Practitioner, received her new business card. Wendy’s promotion recognises her empathetic approach and extensive legal knowledge.

Seven New Associates

The new associates also represent various departments and office locations. Both Clare Mathieson and Safeena Ali shine as commercial property experts, as does Sara Wakefield in the residential property field. Individuals seeking an accomplished lawyer benefit from Emma Evans’s specialist family and relationship legal knowledge, and from Frances Cartwright who provides wills, trusts and probate advice. New Associate Deana Phillips assists individuals and businesses with complex employment law matters, and Sophie Bebbington applies her specialist skills to resolve commercial disputes, and contentious probate also known as contested wills.

Progression Pathways in Action

Lindsey Kidd, MD comments: “I was delighted to share the news with colleagues in late December, knowing we would be stepping into 2024 with this positive announcement. The latest 10 welldeserved promotions show our Progression Pathways programme in action, represent all service lines, and demonstrate our six unique brand standards setting us apart. This reward and recognition is not just for what our colleagues do, but crucially how they do it and how they make clients feel.”

n L to R: Caroline Jones (Partner), Michael Richards, Wendy Randall, Rachael Piggott (new senior associates), Frances Cartwright, Deana Phillips, Emma Evans (new associates), Lindsey Kidd (MD), Richard Burnett (Commercial Director), Sophie Bebbington, Sara Wakefield, Clare Mathieson (new associates)

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

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.

Surface infrastructure being installed at the Observatory

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?

Developing surface infrastructure

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.

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.

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.

Installation of multi-sensor monitoring well

BCC Quarterly Economic Survey: Business confidence boost fails to revive investment

• Business confidence improves in Q4 23, with 56% of UK businesses expecting an increase in turnover in the next twelve months.

• Despite this boost, most firms continue to report no improvement to sales, cash flow or investment.

• Downward trend in price growth expectations ends with more expecting their prices to rise over the next three months.

• Hospitality sector continues to struggle disproportionately, with nearly a third (32%) of firms reporting a decrease in investment.

The BCC’s Quarterly Economic Survey – the UK’s largest and longest-running independent business survey – shows a small rise in business confidence in the final quarter of 2023. The percentage of firms expecting an increase in turnover over the next year (56%) has risen to the highest level since Q1 2022 when Covid restrictions were lifted.

The data also reveals that more firms expect price hikes, ending the downward trend of the last two years.

The survey, conducted in November, of over 5,000 firms across the UK – 91% of whom are SMEs (fewer than 250 employees) –also reveals business performance across different sectors varies considerably.

Minor improvement in overall business conditions

The percentage of respondents reporting increased domestic sales rose slightly to 36%, compared with 35% in Q3. Meanwhile, 22%

There were significant sectoral differences. 46% of consumer services firms said they had seen a boost in sales, whereas 35% of hospitality companies and 28% of retailers saw a decrease.

reported a decrease and 42% said sales had remained constant.

There were significant sectoral differences. 46% of consumer services firms said they had seen a boost in sales, whereas 35% of hospitality companies and 28% of retailers saw a decrease.

Slight increase in business confidence

The percentage of firms expecting to see their turnover increase over the next 12 months increased to 56%, from 53% in Q3. Only 15% of respondents are expecting to see their financial situation worsen in the year ahead, 29% expect things to remain the same.

Profitability confidence has also improved, with 47% of companies saying they expect profits to increase in the next year. That compares to 45% in Q3. 21% of respondents believe their profits will fall.

Downward trend in price expectations halts

Despite inflation continuing to ease, more firms are expecting their prices to rise, compared with the last quarter. 47% of respondents are predicting an increase (compared with 41% in Q3), 49% think prices will stay the same, and just 4% are anticipating a decrease.

Slightly fewer firms cite interest rates as a concern

While inflation remains firms’ biggest concern (58%), a recent trend in rising worries over interest rates has eased. 39% of businesses say they are concerned about the cost of borrowing, compared with 41% in Q2 and 45% in Q3. These figures remain high compared with the pre-Covid trend.

Most firms still not increasing investment

Challenging economic conditions continue to impact heavily on business investment. Overall, the percentage of respondents reporting an increase to investment in plant/ equipment has increased only slightly from 23% in Q3 to 24% in Q4. 58% of businesses said investment had remained the same, 19% reported a decrease.

There are large sectoral disparities in investment levels. 32% of hospitality sector firms say they have decreased investment, and only 19% have increased. Meanwhile, in the transport and logistics sector, 36% of respondents reported a rise in investment –only 18% a decrease.

David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce said:

“The latest QES results show steadily growing confidence among UK SMEs, particularly compared to this time last year, when the UK was beset by a significant energy price shock and political instability.

“However, while it’s likely the UK will avoid a technical recession, these results provide more evidence of a very low growth climate as most SMEs continue to report no improvement to sales, cash flow, or investment.

“The data also reveal the disproportionate impacts of economic shocks on different types of businesses. Manufacturers, for example, are more likely to be exposed to the trade barriers established with Europe, while many firms in the retail and hospitality sector are reporting recessionary conditions.

“Businesses have been desperate for a clear long-term plan for growth from Government that addresses infrastructure, access to skills, and global trade.”

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said:

“Our data shows business confidence is growing, but real challenges remain in the coming year.

“Worries about interest rates and inflation remain at historically high levels, despite a slight easing of concern.

“The recruitment challenges many firms are facing underlines our calls for a skills plan from Government alongside an affordable immigration system.

“Investment continues to the Achilles’ heel for business. The Chancellor’s decision in his Autumn Statement to make full expensing permanent was very welcome. 2023 needs to be the year when companies are given further assistance to invest.

“In the noisy election year ahead, it is crucial politicians remain focused on growing the economy and helping businesses thrive.”

Investment continues to the Achilles’ heel for business. The Chancellor’s decision in his Autumn Statement to make full expensing permanent was very welcome. 2023 needs to be the year when companies are given further assistance to invest.

Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, Shevaun Haviland

Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce, David Bharier

First-of-its-kind governance conference leading the way in north Wales

A first-of-its-kind conference will be held in north Wales this Spring, bringing together the private, public and third sectors in order to share best practice and to encourage collaboration between organisations to ensure good governance.

Jointly developed by law firm Darwin Gray, Adra Housing Association and Menter a Busnes, the “Governance Wales – Leading the Way in 2024” conference will take place on Tuesday 21 May at Ty Gwyrddfai, Penygroes.

Expert speakers from across the UK will explore the academic, professional and practical elements of good governance, exploring a huge range of topics including the serious implications of getting governance wrong, lessons learnt from recent governance scandals, the important of good board recruitment and identifying conflicts of interests, and the implications for boards and organisations

of the new Economic Crime and Transparency Act 2023.

The full-day conference will welcome an impressive line-up of speakers, including Future Generations Commissioner, Derek Walker, Welsh Language Commissioner, Efa Gruffudd Jones, Richard Wyn Jones, Director of Cardiff University’s Wales Governance Centre, and Gwion Lewis, KC. Fflur Jones, Managing Partner at Darwin Gray said: “We are proud to be leading the way with this conference to promote, educate and share best practice in relation to good governance. Given the number of recent scandals within Welsh and UK public institutions over the last 18 months, it has never been more important for organisations to take stock, look at their governance arrangements, and review what improvements they can introduce to ensure the organisations are being governed properly.

Attendance at this practical and thoughtprovoking conference should be an absolute must both for board members and senior members of the executive of businesses, charities and other

organisations, no matter what their size.” Conference delegates will also be amongst some of the first to enjoy the newly renovated Ty Gwyrddfai, which is set to be the UK’s first decarbonisation hub.

Delegates who book before 1st April 2024 will receive an ‘Early Bird’ discount of 10% on all tickets. Find out more about “Governance Wales” and book your tickets here:

https://bit.ly/governancewalesconf2024

Tate & Lyle named one of the world’s most trustworthy companies

Tate & Lyle PLC (Tate & Lyle), a world leader in ingredient solutions for healthier food and beverages, has been named one of the world’s 1,000 most trustworthy companies by weekly news magazine Newsweek and Statista, a leading market research and insights business.

Within the 1,000 most trustworthy companies, Tate & Lyle was ranked in the top half of companies in the global food and beverage category.

The inaugural ranking for 2023 was based on an independent survey involving 70,000 participants in 21 countries, and an online and social media assessment including 269,000 evaluations of companies across 23 industries on the subject of trust, from how they service their customers, to how they are viewed by investors, to their treatment of employees. Survey participants evaluated companies on statements such as, “I trust in this company to treat me fairly as its customer,” “I trust that this company is competently led” and “I believe this company treats its employees fairly.”

Nick Hampton, CEO at Tate & Lyle PLC, said: “We are delighted to be recognised as one of the most trustworthy companies globally and within our industry. In an uncertain world, trust is a precious commodity, perhaps nowhere more so than in the industry responsible for providing safe, affordable and nutritious food to billions of people worldwide.

“Alongside stronger ESG rankings, this recognition comes at a time of increasingly positive customer perception of Tate & Lyle as shown by a recent customer survey that scored us highly for ingredient innovation and sustainability, as well as loyalty, satisfaction and enthusiasm. This progress reflects the integrity, professionalism and dedication of colleagues across Tate & Lyle who live our purpose of Transforming Lives through the Science of Food every day.”

Welcome to WCNW Chamber of Commerce

2wish

Unit 7

Gwaun Gwyrdd

Llantrisant

Rhondda Cynon Taf CF72 8XT 01443 853125

www.2wish.org.uk

Aaron Warren DJ

Gwynedd 07790 040253

www.aaronwarren.co.uk

Anglesey Fishing & Boat Trips

Holyhead Marina

Holyhead

Isle of Anglesey

LL65 1YA 07961 961377

www.angleseyfishingandboattrips.com

Auditel

Spital

Wirral

Merseyside

CH62 2EF 01513 323645

www.auditel.co.uk/paul-harper

BCRS Business Loans Limited

BCRS Business Loans Limited

Technology Centre

Wolverhampton Science Park Wolverhampton WV10 9RU 03453 138410

www.bcrs.org.uk

Benchmark Financial Planning Ltd

Liverpool House Lower Bridge St

Chester, Cheshire

CH1 1RS 07712 108458

www.benchmarkcapital.co.uk

Cambrian Credit Union

144 Conway Road Llandudno Junction

Gwynedd

LL31 9ND 033320 00601

www.cambriancu.com

Decor & More

Wrexham County Borough 07889 946280

www.decorandmore.co.uk

Defurb Interior Design Studio Industry

1 Overleigh Road

Chester

Cheshire CH4 7HL 07788 807021

www.defurbinteriordesignstudio.co.uk

Delsol

Crown House

Glendale Business Park

Sandycroft

Flintshire

CH5 2QP 01244 525090

www.deliverysolutions.uk.com

Delsol

Bryn Warehouse

Griffiths Crossing

Caernarfon

Gwynedd

LL55 1TU 01248 679933

www.deliverysolutions.uk.com

Dream Plan Explore

Pax

Church Lane

Guilden Sutton

Chester

Cheshire

CH3 7EW

07368 123880

www.dreamplanexplore.com

Evolve with Katherine

Little Sutton

Ellesmere Port Cheshire

CH66 3RS 07930 947231

www.linktr.ee/evolve_with_katherine

Flawless

Unit A14

Bersham Enterprise Park Rhostyllen Wrexham

Wrexham County Borough LL14 4EG 01978 358434

www.myflawless.co.uk

Fortuna Management Solutions

Conwy County Borough 07396 775291

www.fortunasolutions.co.uk

Ian Cooper Photography

Oakdale Aston Park

Queensferry

Flintshire CH5 1XR 07743 446691

www.iancooperphotography.com

Jami Q’s (Wrexham) Ltd

Abbey Road North Wrexham Industrial Estate

Wrexham

Wrexham County Borough

LL13 9RX 01978 660220

www.jamiqs.co.uk

JMC Exclusive

Cheshire 07738 397493

High Performance Journey Limited

Rose Cottage Stonehouse Lane

Bulkeley, Malpas Cheshire

SY14 8BQ 07887 912348

www.thehpj.com

Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia

Conwy Road

Dolgarrog, Conwy Conwy County Borough

LL32 8QE 01492 353353

www.hilton.com/en/hotels/vlymsgihilton-garden-inn-snowdonia

Hug Agency Ltd

Business Park

Heronsway

Chester

Cheshire

CH4 9QR 07580 990756

Klaire Tanner

Enterprise Hub

M-Sparc Menai Science Park

Gaerwen

Anglesey

Isle of Anglesey

LL60 6AG 07444 723574

www.klairetanner.com

Make Your Life Count

9 Maes Hafren Crew Green

Powys SY5 9BT 01743 884271

www.makeyourlifecount.co.uk

Mighty Moxie

Cheshire 01244 956974

www.mightymoxiemarketing.co.uk

Milby’s

14 Godstall Lane

Chester Cheshire

CH1 1LN 01244 575046

www.milbys.co.uk

My Professional Coach Merseyside 07919 597211

www.myprofessionalcoach.co.uk

Realm Blinds & Shutters

9 Broom Grove

35 Chester Road

Wrexham

Wrexham County Borough LL139DL 07961 955474

www.realmblinds.co.uk

Richard Carr Consultancy Services

Wrexham County Borough 01978 845532

www.tendersandgrants.co.uk

Tasty Bean

Little Sutton

Ellesmere Port

Cheshire

CH66 3RS 07845 732973

www.tasty-bean.co.uk

NEW MEMBERS

Neatcrown Corwen Limited

Station Yard Industrial Estate

Corwen

Denbighshire

LL21 0EE 01490 413121

www.neatcrown.co.uk

Pentre Tech: IT Support & Cyber Security

34 The Ridgeway

Holywell

Flintshire CH8 7SN 03302 230674

www.ptes.co.uk

Petty Pool Trust

Pool Lane

The Petty Pool Trust

Sandiway

Northwich, Cheshire CH3 7QF 01606 889097

www.pettypool.org.uk

Prism Solutions

The Technology Barn

20 John Bradshaw Court

Alexandra Way Congleton

Cheshire

CW12 1LB 03451 217770

Wave Communications Group Ltd

Cheshire 01606 241034

www.wavecommsgroup.co.uk

SavvySally

Isle of Anglesey 07739 988702

www.savvysally.co.uk

Textlocal

Head Office IMImobile, 5 St. John’s Lane

London

Greater London EC1M 4BH 01244 752299

www.textlocal.com

The Hospitality Hero Ltd

49-51 Lower Bridge Street

Chester

Cheshire

CH11RS 07843 479061

www.thehospitalityhero.com

White Rose Ceremonies

Gernant Llanddoged Road

Llanrwst

Conwy County Borough

LL26 0YU

07725 795316

www.whiteroseceremonies.co.uk

WhiteFish Creative Limited

Flintshire 01244 968374

www.whitefishcreative.co.uk

Seren HR Consulting Flintshire 07904 190652

The Knowledge Bank Limited Cheshire 07713 069522

www.tkbltd.co.uk

What 3 Things

Cheshire 07970 869908

Sound Induction Systems Ltd

Unit 27

Mochdre Industrial Estate Newtown Powys SY16 4LE 01686 628012

www.soundinduction.co.uk

Stays Lilies House

Cheshire 07821 154146

www.stayslilieshouse.com

The Think Brand not bland Guy

Wrexham

Wrexham County Borough LL13 9SG 07770 753975

www.thinkbrandnotbland.co.uk

Tomorrow’s Women

5 Upper Northgate Street

Chester

Cheshire CH1 4EE 01244 906494

www.tomorrowswomen.org.uk

Wilderness Tribe

Flintshire 07838 187889

www.wildernesstribe.org

Williams Denton Cyf

13 Trinity Square

Llandudno

Conwy County Borough

LL30 2RB

01492 877478

www.williamsdenton.co.uk

TOP TIPS

Top Tips to improve your business’s visibility in Google (that’s if you need to!)

Improving a website’s visibility within Google’s search results for relevant keywords and phrases is a set of practices and techniques referred to as Search Engine Optimisation (SEO).

Whilst these practices and techniques apply to all search engines, with Google handling 90% of all search queries worldwide, when we talk about SEO we are only thinking about Google!

Why would you want to improve your business’s online visibility?

Ultimately, the overarching goal of SEO is to attract potential customers to a website, enhance user experience, and ultimately drive conversions, whether that means making a purchase, completing an enquiry form or simply engaging with the website’s content in a meaningful way.

By aligning a website’s content and structure with the preferences and expectations of both users and search engines, SEO helps businesses maximise their online visibility and achieve their digital marketing objectives. Does my business need SEO and how would I find out?

You may well be thinking that surely every business, including your own, would benefit from improving their online visibility – but this simply isn’t the case.

From experience, we know that not every business needs SEO. That’s right, those spammy SEO emails you may have received saying your website contains errors or your rankings are suffering, might not be accurate!

We’ve put a quick and simple quiz online to help businesses determine for themselves if SEO is something they would benefit from.

Take the quiz at https://designweb.co.uk/do-i-need-seo or scan the QR code to the right.

So, if you got a YES in the quiz and your business does need SEO, here are some tips to help boost your online visibility:

1. Keyword research

Keyword research identifies relevant terms and phrases that your target audience is likely to use when searching for content related to your website. Tools like Google Keyword Planner and SEMrush can be used to discover keywords with high monthly search volume and moderate to low competition.

If your business serves a local audience, optimise your website for local search by claiming and optimising your Google My Business listing, incorporating locationbased keywords into your content, and earning positive reviews from customers

2. Optimise on-page elements

Optimise your website’s on-page elements such as title tags, meta descriptions, headings, and URL structures to incorporate targeted keywords naturally. Ensure that your content provides value to users and matches their search intent, as Google prioritises content relevance and quality.

3. Create high-quality content

Produce high-quality, informative, and engaging content that addresses the needs and interests of your target audience. Focus on creating comprehensive, well-researched content that provides unique insights, solutions, or entertainment. Regularly update your content to keep it fresh and relevant.

4. Improve website speed and performance

Optimise your website’s speed and performance to provide users with a seamless browsing experience. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to identify and address performance issues. Having your website hosted on a fast, secure, reliable and suitable platform is highly important.

5. Optimise for mobile

Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and responsive to cater to users who access the internet using smartphones and tablets. Google prioritises mobile-friendly websites in its search rankings, so optimising for mobile is essential for improving visibility in Google search results.

6. Optimise for local SEO

If your business serves a local audience, optimise your website for local search by claiming and optimising your Google My Business listing, incorporating location-based keywords into your content, and earning positive reviews from customers. Citations and backlinks from local directories can also improve your website’s visibility in local search results.

7. Build quality backlinks

Build high-quality backlinks from authoritative and relevant websites to improve your website’s authority and credibility in Google’s eyes. Focus on earning natural backlinks through guest blogging, content partnerships, and outreach efforts. Avoid spammy tactics and focus on creating valuable content that attracts links organically.

8. Monitor and analyse performance

Regularly monitor your website’s performance in Google search results using tools like Google Search Console and Google Analytics. Track key metrics such as organic traffic, keyword rankings, click-through rates, and conversion rates to measure the effectiveness of your SEO efforts. Use this data to identify areas for improvement and refine your strategies over time.

Improving your website’s online visibility is a strategic endeavour and undertaking the above tasks can be daunting for most businesses. We strongly recommend determining if SEO should form part of your digital marketing strategy.

If it does, then research the keywords and phrases your potential customers are using in Google searches and choose the ones to be implemented into your business’s SEO strategy.

One last tip – Never assume what your potential customers are searching for in Google or that SEO is something your business needs!

Seek advice from an agency if you need help with anything we’ve covered.

Together, We’re Well Connected From Milkman to Action Man

If you happen to come across a Unigate Milk Float trundling around the roads near Chester, there’s a high probability Ian Traynor is driving it.

Ian harbours a deep affection for these early environmentally sustainable electric vehicles, owning two milk floats, with his 1960 Unigate liveried model being his favourite. Beyond his passion for milk floats, Ian Traynor is a highly respected figure in the business community, serving as a Non-Executive Director, Board Advisor, Employee Ownership Expert, Mentor for Business Owners & Directors, and an authority on Business Exit Strategies and Growth Management. Since joining the Chamber in 2017, Ian has dedicated himself to supporting businesses across the Northwest.

Ian invested time and money last year to enhance his branding and marketing despite his busy business support schedule as a non-executive director and business mentor. This included filming new videos in and around Story House in Chester with fellow long-term Chamber member Richard Dawson, a Digital Marketing Coach, helping to reshape Ian’s digital marketing strategy. Peter Ewan of HeelHeadover Productions in Wrenbury then took the helm in producing

TOGETHER WE’RE WELL CONNECTED

This feature showcases members that have connected, collaborated and worked with each other, highlighting how their membership with the Chamber has helped them build relationships and opened new doors for their businesses.

Does this sound like you? If so, we’d love to hear your story! Get in touch via info@wcnwchamber.org.uk.

and directing the video content.

Richard and Ian met at a Chamber Event in 2018 at the Cheshire FA and started working together on Ian’s Digital Marketing shortly after. Ian says, “I’ve met a lot of useful contacts through the Chamber, and it’s an invaluable part of my marketing strategy. I meet many potential clients, other professional services members who can introduce me to businesses looking to grow and thrive, and consultants like Richard who can help me grow.”

Richard says, “Like Ian, I meet a lot of potential clients and great supply ‘partners through my Chamber membership. Ian is so passionate and focused on helping Business Owners grow, and I love seeing the journey he takes his clients on.”

Ian’s video series, centred around his ‘Think Plan Do’ framework, showcases his innovative approach to fostering sustainable business growth. He likens his methodology to the operation of a milk float doing its daily rounds, symbolising the delivery of fresh ideas and perspectives to businesses, much like the milk float delivers fresh milk and other dairy products to doorsteps.

“It is wonderful to see the relationship that has developed between Richard and Ian

after they met at a Chamber event six years ago. It is a testament to both of them that they are still collaborating and working on innovative projects and we are delighted that the Chamber has played a small part in their journeys,” said Jennifer Kennedy, Head of Membership at WCNW Chamber of Commerce.

You can find out more about Ian’s innovative framework by watching his video series on YouTube https://www.youtube. com/@iantraynorofluminateventur3175 or connecting with him on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/itraynor/

Local business collaboration proves successful:

West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber members unite to empower regional businesses

Following a highly successful collaborative effort, three members of the West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber, Rhian Anstey, Director of insight6, Rachel Lamsley, Director of EvansLamsley, and Rhianne Wray, Director of Type on Data, have successfully orchestrated an event aimed at elevating local business operations.

The trio, recognising the value of a cohesive customer journey, efficient people management, and streamlined systems processes, joined forces to host an enlightening event designed to empower businesses across the region.

Rhian Anstey, reflecting on the collaborative endeavour, noted, “The Chamber networking events played a crucial role in bringing the three of us together to create this event. Our collective experience and dedication to excellence have truly amplified our impact.”

The event, held on February 20th in Chester Town Hall, served as a dynamic platform for networking and knowledge-sharing. Attendees were treated to interactive sessions, shared insights and practical workshops, all geared toward addressing common challenges and exploring innovative solutions.

Rachel Lamsley emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating, “Our event aim

was to cultivate an environment where businesses can draw from each other’s insights and experiences, fostering growth and success.”

Rhianne Wray echoed this sentiment, adding, “By leveraging our combined expertise and resources, we are confident in our ability to make a meaningful difference within the local business community and plan to do more of these events in the future.”

The event attracted business owners, managers, and professionals eager to enhance their operations and drive growth. Rhian shared the importance of feedback to improve the customer experience, Rachel showcased how to create high performing teams and Rhianne focused on utilising systems to streamline processes. The feedback for the event has been positive with delegates saying how useful the morning was to take some time out to work on their business instead of in it.

L to R: Richard Dawson with Ian Traynor

L to R: Chamber members Rachel Lamsley, Rhianne Wray and Rhian Anstey combined to deliver an interactive workshop

An overview of yourself and your current role.

I’m the founder of Equicantis Ltd which is a SaaS (Subscription as a Service) platform aimed at animal physical therapists i.e. equine and canine physiotherapists, chiropractors, massage therapists and osteopaths.

I’m an Equine Musculoskeletal Therapist myself so Equicantis was born out of my own frustrations as an animal therapist. I wanted to be able to send professional exercise plans to my clients to help them with their animal’s rehab but there was nothing on the market. So, I teamed up with Chester-based Titan Webtech Ltd to solve the problem. We now have an exercise library of over 300 equine and canine exercise videos and subscribers from 11 countries meaning therapists can send detailed plans to their clients.

We are just launching Version 2.0 which is very exciting and will integrate a business management platform, with features such as appointments, treatment reports with anatomical diagrams and onboarding forms, with the current exercise prescription so animal therapists can run all aspects of their business online.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Knowing that I am providing a much-needed solution to the animal physical therapy industry which I’ve been a part of for 14 years. I love listening to fellow therapists and discovering what they need and coming up with a solution. I really enjoy the mix in my working week too as I spend half my week in the office on Equicantis and the other half out and about around Cheshire and north east Wales treating horses. I won’t lie though, I do prefer being in the office when the weather is awful but I don’t get much choice in that!

Laura Clinton

Founder and Director at Equicantis Ltd

I really enjoy the mix in my working week too as I spend half my week in the office on Equicantis and the other half out and about around Cheshire and north east Wales treating horses.

Was a role like this always what you aspired to?

No! I’m not at all techy so being the founder of a tech business is not a place I thought I would be!

Tell us about your previous roles/ business journey.

I started my working life as a journalist with the Midlands News Association after completing my degree in Journalism, Film and Broadcasting from Cardiff University. I worked as a local newspaper reporter in Shropshire for a while before moving into public relations. I realised that working with horses was my passion and retrained in Equine Sports Massage Therapy and then Equine Musculoskeletal Manipulation Therapy. So, although these skills seem quite disconnected, they’ve both played a huge part in helping me to create Equicantis.

Tell us a bit about what you do outside of work to relax.

Family time is the most precious thing to me outside of work. Myself and my husband have two boys who are five and three, and a wonderful Sproodle dog, so taking them on little adventures is my favourite thing to do. Watching the kids have fun at The Ice Cream Farm, or going on a walk around Alyn Waters. Getting together with friends and dancing to some live music with a drink in my hand makes me happy, a bonus if it’s outside in the sunshine. I no longer have my own horses and barely ride now, but one day I will have a horse again and you’ll find me galloping across a field! But more often than not, relaxing is crashing on the sofa to watch something on Netflix with a glass of wine.

In an ideal world, what else would you like to be?

Probably an author. To have the vision and literary flare to come up with brilliant novels that people were eager to read and to spend my days writing. I totally envision it to be like Colin Firth’s character in Love Actually, typing away in some idyllic French villa – but on a laptop rather than a typewriter with his pages flying into the lake! I doubt it’s like that at all but I’ll hold onto the dream!

What advice would you give to anyone else in business?

Take advice but also trust your gut. Just because something has worked for someone else, doesn’t mean it’s going to work for you. If it doesn’t sit right with you, don’t do it, find a different way. And just keep turning up and doing the work. If you’ve done the research and truly believe in what you’re doing, the only way to fail is to quit.

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 Hong Kong Isle of Man Malta

Mauritius Oman Portugal Qatar Saudi Arabia Singapore South Africa

Switzerland United Arab Emirates – Abu Dhabi, Dubai United Kingdom – London, Chester