The Plaza has been an iconic presence within Liverpool for more than 50 years.
Today, the newly re-imagined space seamlessly marries these two eras together, elevating its exemplary status and the innovative business community that resides within.
At The Plaza, functional will be transformed into inspirational. The communal spaces have been specifically designed to harbour connections with like-minded individuals and encourage its thriving and ambitious community to work collectively.
Lifestyle spaces, including a cafe, bar, restaurant and fitness studio have been created to enhance your everyday experience and wellbeing. All workspaces on our brand new third floor also have a private balcony as well as a large communal space.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to grow from a single desk to an international household name. No matter what kind of workspace you’re looking for, you’ll find it within the walls of The Plaza - and whichever space you choose, you’re sure to be in good company.
As summer comes to a close we have already seen some seismic changes following the appointment of a new Prime Minister and the sad death of Queen Elizabeth II.
With a pessimistic economic outlook for businesses over the coming months (see the results of our latest Quarterly Economic Survey on pages 4 and 5) and fears that rising inflation will continue to cut deeply into the cost of living, it would be easy to fall into the trap of fuelling negativity as all businesses seek to grapple with the challenges of escalating costs, an increasingly squeezed labour market and market volatility.
As the politicians seek a way forward, it is clear that the role of business is increasingly critical to stimulating wealth and that innovation, dynamism and flexibility of businesses will have a central role to play as we seek an economic recovery from the
headwinds that have hit us over this past decade and have become more intensified through the past year.
Businesses need the right market conditions to allow them to do what they do best – delivering jobs, creating sustainable growth and supporting global prosperity. More certainty within the trading environment, more control over the costs of doing business and maximising investment potential need to be at the core of government policy.
This edition of Well Connected provides a snapshot of just some of the great businesses operating in the Liverpool City Region who will be at the forefront of our campaign to reinvigorate and grow our economy.
This includes the launch of our Property and Construction Network with Torus Liverpool as well as learning more about how Liverpool City Region’s educational institutions are perfectly positioned to support the upskilling of
our young people in readiness for the job market. We are particularly excited to be counting down to our sold-out Innovation in Business Awards, taking place in November. The shortlisted companies have all demonstrated the essential factors we would look for in a growth and innovation-led economy and I look forward to formally recognising and celebrating their achievements.
I also want to welcome the nomination of Alison Lobb as the Chamber Chair. Alison’s appointment is fantastic news for our Chamber members and will provide excellent leadership of the Board, continuing the outstanding contribution of Neil Ashbridge who is stepping down after six years. My personal thanks to Neil for his leadership and counsel throughout this incredibly challenging period of recovery and growth. You can read Neil’s final thoughts as Chair on page 27.
There are undoubtedly challenging times ahead but the whole Chamber team is here to support your business, whatever the outlook.
Director of Commercial Services Tom Woolley shares his thoughts on Liverpool Chamber’s summer events, and a look forward to our forthcoming flagship events.
association with Liverpool John Moores University along with an exclusive tour and presentation from Chamber patrons Torus at Liverpool Football Club’s former training ground, Melwood.
if you would like to discuss how Liverpool Chamber can support your business, please contact me via tom.woolley@ liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Our events programme has been well received by members throughout the summer months, with our Well Connected and Chamber Social events, which are open to all members, proving to be consistently popular.
Our Executive Reception events are solely for Strategic Partners and Patrons, with the aim of offering a unique experience for our higher-level members and an opportunity for them to connect as a small group, forging valuable relationships. This series of events has been particularly popular, and saw guests invited to a celebratory lunch at Hope Street Hotel in
We have a strong events calendar for the remainder of 2022, with around 20 events currently in the calendar. Our Well Connected and Chamber Social events will be supplemented with Executive Receptions including events at our President’s Lunch following Liverpool Chamber’s AGM and a reception with North West Cancer Research at the Victoria Gallery and Museum.
We are excited to build upon the success of the Schools Business Network by hosting our next event in Hilton Liverpool on 6 October, and will develop the Business Network concept to encompass events connecting members with sectors including Property & Construction and charity, further information of which can be found on the charity page of this issue of Well Connected.
These events have formed the perfect backdrop to allow our members, Strategic Partners and Patrons to form valuable connections, so
We are delighted that his year’s Innovation in Business Awards, in partnership with Blok ‘N’ Mesh, have been a huge success, and are now completely sold out.
More than 15,000 votes have been cast by over 2,000 business people across Liverpool and Sefton, while demand for table bookings and sponsorships has also exceeded previous records, with over 450 guests signed up for the awards ceremony. We are very grateful to welcome 13 sponsors to the event whose vital support will ensure that our guests have an unforgettable evening.
This year’s event will take place for the first time at World Museum on Thursday 17 November and will be hosted by Ngunan Adamu from BBC Radio Merseyside and The Guide’s Jay Hynd. Guests will also enjoy an official after-show event at DWNTWN on Harrington Street. Good luck to all of our nominees!
Liverpool Chamber are delighted to announce that The Silver Birch Garden Party will return on Randox Grand National Thursday, and we would like to invite you to join us for the largest business gathering over the three days of racing.
With over 1/3 of our tickets already sold to guests who joined us last year, and given that The Liverpool Chamber Innovation in Business Awards sold out over three months before the event, we can guarantee that this event will sell out well before the big day.
We have once again secured an exclusive hospitality package from our friends at The Jockey Club, and guests will receive a sumptuous three course lunch, a complimentary bar and afternoon tea along with superb views of the home straight via our private balcony and lots more.
For further information please see the events page of this issue of Well Connected, or visit www. liverpoolchamber.org.uk/ events/liverpool-chamberday-at-the-races-2023/
Membership & Business Growth Manager, Jordan Rhoda, discusses the range of business services available to help members thrive over the coming year.
Over the past year the Liverpool Chamber has partnered with our Strategic Partners to put together a fantastic range of exclusive member benefits to help your
business thrive. These benefits range from cost-savings to expert advice and support and are available to all Liverpool Chamber Members.
We have launched a partnership with Morecrofts Solicitors to offer Chamber members immediate access to a range of legal services,
including commercial, property, and employment law, through our Chamber Legal Team.
Need to get out of your home office for the day? Spending a day in Manchester and need somewhere to base yourself? Maybe you are
looking for a new coworking space? We have partnered with Bruntwood to offer Members of the Chamber a chance to spend a day working from one of their co-working spaces.
All members of the Liverpool Chamber are eligible to join the Arriva Travel Club to enjoy a 25% discount on bus travel, with unlimited travel every month in the zones of your choice.
The Guide’s Content Expert and 15% discount on video production Liverpool Chamber members are able to engage with a free consultation with a content expert at The Guide and benefit from an exclusive 15% discount on video production throughout 2022.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car have created an exclusive offer for Liverpool Chamber members. Enjoy a £10 First Year’s Membership with £10 Free Driving Credit and 5% off Enterprise Rent-A-Car services.
If you are interested in joining the Liverpool Chamber or would like to know more about how you can access our exclusive Member Savings read more here: https:// www.liverpoolchamber. org.uk/join-us/ and contact Jordan.Rhoda@ liverpoolchamber.org.uk to get started today.
Ai Change Management https://ai-cm.co.uk/
1st2 Achieve Training https://1st2achieve.com
Aztec Ltd https://aztec-limited.co.uk
Bakare Barley Ltd www.bakarebarley.com
Brainboxes Limited www.brainboxes.com
Central Liverpool Credit Union https://centralcu.co.uk
Cowgills (Liverpool) www.cowgills.co.uk
Dash Restaurant & Bar https://dashrestaurants.co.uk
Elevate www.elevate-ebp.co.uk
Entrust Professional Services Ltd www.entrust-services.com
Entrust Remote Financial Services Assistance Ltd www.entrust-rfsa.co.uk
ESA Risk https://esarisk.com
Fran Wilson https://fran-wilson.com
Future Yard CIC https://futureyard.org
Glee Coaching Consultancy www.linkedin.com/in/barbracarlisle-fcipd/
Graffiti Spirits Group Hospitality www.gsghospitality.co.uk
Gregg Foreman www.greggforeman.co.uk
In-House Legal Solutions https://inhouselegalsolutions.com
Langan Financial Planning https://partnership.sjp.co.uk/ partner/tonylangan
LJM Therapies www.ljm-therapies.co.uk
Lyreco www.lyreco.com/webshop/ENEN/ index.html
Martico UK Limited https://martico.com/uk-ireland Mission Success Ltd https://daveverburg.com
MMA Design & Project Management Ltd https://mma.design
Protein Bargain Wholesale https://proteinbargainwholesale. co.uk
Regus www.regus.com/en-gb/unitedkingdom/liverpool
Resolve Energy www.resolveenergy.co.uk
Royal Liver Building 360 Tour https://rlb360.com/
Storeaway Self Storage www.storeaway.uk
The Accessible Guide C.I.C https://theaccessibleguide.com
The Bluecoat www.thebluecoat.org.uk
The Bridewell Pub https://thebridewellpub.co.uk
The Denbigh Castle https://thedenbighcastle.co.uk
The Salvation Army www.salvationarmy.org.uk
The Womens Organisation www.thewomensorganisation. org.uk
Venture Electrical Ltd https://ventureelectrical.com
We Are With You Liverpool www.wearewithyou.org.uk
Astraea Linskills Ltd https://a-l.law/services
BarnsChapel Ltd https://barnschapel.co.uk
What worked last year is not working this year; this is a common challenge that business owners are presented with when it comes to the internet.
“Why did my webinar service work last year but not this year, and why does it now take longer to download information than previously?”
This is the question many business owners are asking at present.
The answer is simple, we are seeing more and more people continuing to use bandwidth hungry technology, and here are some examples:
• Video meetings rather than Face to Face meetings are more popular, especially with rising fuel costs
• Cloud based CRM systems are ever more popular in comparison with locally based PC or server systems, so we break out onto the internet to access them rather than just use our local network
• IP Voice traffic is exploding. The internet is getting used more for voice calls than ever, in fact by 2025, most calls will be on the internet. Additionally, because voice calls need priority to work, they should always get the bandwidth first
• Everyone is using more bandwidth. Social media is being used by businesses and individuals on breaks use social media, eating up our bandwidth
• Video streaming and listening to music whilst working is on the increase. Think how many people you see sat in offices doing their work with headphones on, listening to podcasts, etc
Customer service is often considered an interaction between a single customer and your business.
Helen Christian, Service Delivery Manager at virtual receptionist specialists Face for Business, discusses why customer service matters more than ever.
When did customer service become so important?
There isn’t a particular moment in time when customer service suddenly became important. Its always been important. Customers have a choice, and with most suppliers selling roughly the same products at similar prices, it leaves customer service as the main differentiator. Customer service has become the thing we all now compete on and customers show a willingness to spend more on the same if it meant they’d get a better service. It’s a perfect storm where customer service plays a key part of
the business and can benefit, or harm, your company’s growth.
Customer service results in more robust growth and finances
It’s widely accepted that it’s cheaper to retain a customer than get a new one. It can also buy you goodwill with customers, if something goes wrong and your customer service works as it should. This means you can keep your ROI higher if you’re a service business, or sell more of your products to repeat customers.
The problem of a bad customer experience from a brand perspective, is that bad experiences rarely stay between the business and the customer. We all know a bad experience gets shared more than good, so keeping experiences as positive, is key to good PR. Many people will now ‘call out’ poor experiences on social media, meaning potentially millions of people will see that you’ve provided a poor experience. And whilst one or two might not be a problem, if you’re consistently being
But it’s not all doom and gloom and the price of the internet is coming down. In a recent check, what cost you £1 a year ago can now be bought for 70p - a 30% saving. However, just taking that saving won’t help you with the challenges of keeping everyone working at productive levels.
So, how can you help your business.? Well, the simple answer is, keep increasing bandwidth. If you have a fibre lease line into your business, you don’t need to sign up for the fastest one straight away. Bandwidth on lease lines providers starts from as little as 50mbs and can grow by 50 times to a staggering 10gbs quite easily. If you work with your provider as your bandwidth grows, you should be able to flex up your speeds as your needs grow. If you have that lease line pipe over fibre into your premises and you have the router required, this can often be just a simple job of ringing up.
Suddenly, its job done, no big decisions, just flex as required.
If anyone wants to look at the possibility of lease line technology to keep your business working smoothly, contact the team today on 01704 898210.
criticised for poor customer service, your brand image will suffer
Finally, customer service can have a big impact on your team’s morale as employees will always want to do the best for customers.
It’s bound to bring morale down when they’re constantly faced with angry complaints, customers who aren’t happy, and other customers walking out.
This can become a perpetual cycle where teams are demotivated due to customer complaints and, consequently, deliver worse service and get more complaints. In an environment where customers are happy with their service, your team is much more likely to be happy, too. Customer service has always been important - just more so now
A lot gets made about customer service today, like the business world suddenly woke up and decided that, finally, giving customers a good service was now worth their time. The truth is it’s always been important but today, it’s more important.
Many customers now put a premium on getting a better service and whilst many buying decisions will come down to price, there is an advantage to be found in being known as the supplier with the best service.
HybridTec, in partnership with B2W Group, is the only training provider in the North of England to win funding
Liverpool training providers, HybridTec and B2W Group have successfully secured £1m worth of ‘green bootcamp’ funding from the Department for Education to support businesses and job seekers in upskilling in the latest renewable energy technology.
In partnership with the B2W Group, the aim of the programme is to encourage businesses and job seekers to upskill in their
Morecrofts Solicitors has welcomed 15 new members of staff in recent months following a period of unprecedented growth.
Annual turnover at the firm rose above £5m for the first time, leading Morecrofts to strengthen its team across all six offices in Merseyside.
Among those is highly-experienced legal executive Liz Potter, who has joined the family matrimonial team. She has worked in family law for 25 years across Merseyside, Halton and Wirral and is based between Morecrofts’ Prescot and Woolton offices. A Fellow of CILEx for 13 years and a member of Resolution, she has significant
respective teams in the newest sustainable technologies, including air source and ground source heat pumps, solar thermal hot water, and underfloor heating.
SP Energy Networks estimates the cost of installing ground source heat pumps is expected to be around £4.8bn, while the number of homes that will install heat pumps by 2040 is estimated to be over 547,000. As a result of the £1m funding, jobs created by decarbonisation investment is set to be 12,460, providing the Liverpool City Region with a robust energy network infrastructure.
As leaders in energy training and the green agenda, HybridTec launched its green academy this year - addressing the skills gap within today’s tradespeople and preparing a future workforce in line with the Government’s mission of reducing carbon emissions by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050.
Sophie Gilmore, managing director at HybridTec, said: “It is fantastic that HybridTec has been awarded this funding in partnership with the B2W Group by the
experience in divorce, financial resolution, private children law applications and cohabitation matters, with a keen interest in resolution of matrimonial financial matters and private children advocacy.
A large number of new team members have arrived in the family law team, including solicitor Heather Lyon, who has joined in the Liverpool office alongside paralegal Liam Negus and trainee legal executive Liz Dubkova. They are joined by family paralegal Emily-Jayne Laughton, based in Woolton, and Keeva Gilroy and Freja Hopwood, who are both based in the Birkenhead office.
Rejoining the firm is private client solicitor Kate McEvoy, who spent more than three years with Morecrofts until 2020 and returns to the Crosby office. She is joined in the private client team by paralegal Samantha Lack in the firm’s Woolton office.
Morecrofts has also strengthened its property team, with the addition of paralegal Antonia Shelley in the Prescot office, while fellow paralegal Lesley Agugua has joined the employment law team, based in Liverpool.
Katie Ward has been recruited as a costsperson in the firm’s fee unit in Liverpool, while Jasmine Wilks and Louise Burdett-Fox have also been appointed as apprentice receptionists.
Department for Education, and I would like to thank those involved in securing the bid.
“At HybridTec, it’s our mission to help businesses and out of work individuals across the city region to achieve their goals and career aspirations, and this funding will enable us to deliver our programme effectively and efficiently.
“The heating industry is changing, and engineers will now have the opportunity to upskill and future proof their businesses thanks to our green bootcamp.”
Claire Lee, business development director, at B2W Group, said: “B2W Group, working in partnership with HybridTec, are delighted to have been successful in securing a contract with the Department for Education on the delivery of green heating technologies under the recent Wave 3 Green Skills Bootcamp procurement.
“This exciting initiative will provide vital new skills for those looking to access a career and those looking to upskill or re-skill across the renewable energy sector.
“B2W Group, along with HybridTec, are keen to continue the great work that is being done across Liverpool City Region and see the success as a great opportunity to continue to support the city’s green agenda.”
Alison Lobb, managing partner at Morecrofts Solicitors, said: “Thanks to the outstanding work of our staff, the past 12 months has been a really successful period for our business, with growth in client instructions across all departments.
“We have therefore broadened our staff base across all areas of the business to support our existing teams and ensure we are well-positioned to retain our current momentum to achieve further growth in the coming years.
“We are pleased to have been able to recruit an excellent blend of outstanding, experienced lawyers alongside young, emerging talent and the future looks very bright for clients and staff at Morecrofts.”
Liz Potter said: “Morecrofts has an awardwinning family law team and a deserved reputation as the leading family law firm in the region.
“The firm shares my passion for excellence in this area and a commitment to supporting clients at one of the most difficult times in their life.
“I am delighted to have joined the team and I look forward to using my experience to further develop the advice and support we offer to clients.”
Liverpool could become the first city in the UK to establish a dedicated Accommodation BID (Business Improvement District) for its hotel and serviced apartments industry. This Autumn, businesses across the sector in the city centre will be asked to vote in a ballot to decide whether to establish the BID which would see a dedicated investment of £4.3m over five years.
The Accommodation BID is designed to support the industry over the coming years as it reduces its reliance on public sector investment for destination marketing, but yet faces increased operating costs and a decline in city-wide Revenue per Available Room. This last factor saw a reduction begin pre-pandemic in 2019, where the hotel trading performance decreased by 5.6% between 2018 and 2019 with the number of available rooms rising by an average of 6%. There are almost 2,000 AirBnB homes and private rooms available in Liverpool (Jan 2022) and this has an impact on hotel performance.
The proposed Accommodation BID would be a joint effort between Liverpool Hospitality, Liverpool BID Company and Growth Platform - Liverpool City Region Growth Company. Liverpool BID Company would run the Accommodation BID day to day, alongside the city’s two other BIDs, Culture & Commerce and Retail & Leisure. With over 80 hotels and apartments in the proposed BID area, there
would be a five year investment of £4.3m with a return estimated to protect over 1,400 jobs and an average GVA of £15m a year.
Bill Addy is the CEO of Liverpool BID Company and is Chair of Liverpool Visitor Economy Network. “As the first city to explore this option to support the visitor economy, this is a bold strategy by Liverpool that confronts the issues the hotel sector is facing head on”.
Core to the proposal is the need to futureproof the city’s visitor economy, ensuring it is still able to succeed and provide vital economic investment to the city as public sector investment is reduced.
“Liverpool’s visitor economy is a towering strength, but without investment its growth could make it a victim of its own success. With the public purse shrinking, there simply isn’t the level of public sector investment to support the industry and provide what it needs; specifically that targeted investment of a subvention fund to attract major sporting events, business conferences and other programmes that draw visitors to the city.”
Before the pandemic, there were 37.06m day visits and overnight tourist trips to Liverpool. These visitors helped to create a visitor economy worth £3.35bn, supporting over 36.9k jobs. Since then, including the pandemic, Liverpool has lost its UNESCO World Heritage Status, subvention to support the growth of the ACCL has been reduced, and the current SIF (Strategic Investment Funding) is a short term solution.
Despite this demand, destination marketing is required to target large conferences, business and sporting events. With the public purse shrinking, an Accommodation BID enables
the private sector to invest more in the local economy, while providing a targeted approach to support the sector. It would also give the sector a greater say in the city, its connectivity and how it works to attract visitors.
It is vital, says Bill Addy, that the private sector helps to support the city’s economy.
“It is time for business to pull together to help the city continue to be an international draw.
Without this, Liverpool risks relying on a less economically advantageous visitor market that relies on lower spend and cheaper costs. For a balanced visitor economy, and for the city centre’s mixed use economy, we need to be able to attract the higher spending conferences, major events and similar that will have a beneficial impact on the city’s bottom line”.
“Speaking to the hotels and serviced apartments in Liverpool we know that there is a desire for change. We cannot rely on the economic models of the future, and we know that without intervention we risk Liverpool’s competitiveness and buoyant visitor economy. Over the past five years we have explored different models and this is the one with both support and endorsement, but also works in terms of investment, confidence and long-term impact”.
Liverpool BID Company is a private, not-for-profit organisation, representing the interests of 1,000 levy paying businesses in Liverpool city centre, across two BIDs (Business Improvement Districts)
- Retail & Leisure BID and Culture & Commerce BID. Those hotels who are current members of a BID would switch to the Accommodation BID.
The City of Liverpool is a leader in international trade, manufacturing, and innovationdriven start-ups. Liverpool possesses a fully modern worldclass infrastructure that includes the expanding Port of Liverpool and John Lennon International Airport near The Liverpool Chamber of Commerce (LCC). Vision meeting challenge is part of the fabric of Liverpool.
In 2015, LCC had the foresight and daring to meet the challenges of the region’s needs by partnering with boomerang carnets UK. The Chamber recognized that, through this partnership, they could offer easy and affordable ATA Carnets to anyone in the U.K. The partnership
introduced a new and easy online application process for ATA Carnets, and access to expert customer service available after-hours, on weekends and holidays. The LCC had already been issuing 30 – 40 ATA Carnets annually to a small group of exporters but in 2022, to date, have issued 3,433 due to the advanced technology of boomerang carnets. All are expanding into new
Liverpool Chamber’s ERDF funded New Markets 2 project has recently helped Tom Reynolds, Director of EdenFiftyOne™, attend the Bett Global event in London. Tom, hailing from the West Midlands and having also lived in Manchester and London, moved to Liverpool in 2008.
Having previously held Head of English roles across the country, Tom has taught 100’s of students across the Liverpool City Region
though more recently is now the solofounder of an international award-winning ed-tech SME, based in the city centre, EdenFiftyOne™.
With the next stop being Bangkok, Tom is on an ed-tech mission to make English language teaching, learning and assessment easier for all, everywhere: one skill and one step at a time. Bett
markets and growing their businesses while saving money and time.
The ATA Carnet is an internationally accepted unified customs document for temporarily exported merchandise or goods. It allows cross border movement of those goods import-duty and -tax free into 87+ carnet countries and territories for up to a year. The ATA Carnet is known as the Merchandise Passport and ideal for professional equipment, goods, or commercial samples moving in and out of countries. It is a flexible trade tool proven to have a successful impact on business growth in many sectors.
Companies with a presence in both the U.K. and the U.S. can utilize The Boomerang Benefit to coordinate and expedite their ATA Carnet needs in two countries while overcoming the often complex and challenging realities of exporting. It saves time, money, and creates ease in tight deadline situations. The Boomerang Benefit can include assistance with logistics and insurance by providing convenient access to boomerang carnets’ strategic partners.
The LCC and Boomerang look forward to many more years of collaborating, innovating, and meeting the challenges ahead with success.
Asia, the global community for education technology returns to Thailand on the 11th October, New Markets2 funding helps businesses to have presence at such incredible shows.
‘Bett Global is the biggest education technology show in the world! Attending as part of the Northern Powerhouse New Markets 2 campaign is a real honour and to be chosen to represent the LCR tech community at this event is one of the greatest achievements of the business so far.’
Follow Tom’s ed-tech journey to Bangkok on Linked In @edenfiftyone and Learn more about the EdenFiftyOne™ platform at www.edenfiftyone.com
Are you looking to grow your business into New Markets? Contact Ian.bulmer@liverpoolchamber.org.uk and see how we can support you with your overseas plans!
The British Chamber in Türkiye visited our office on the 26 September, we welcomed Mr Chris Gaunt, Chairman, and discussed the UK’s position on the FDA and the benefits for UK exporters and Turkiye and the broader EECAN region.
Liverpool Chamber hosted an international trade event on September 22nd to highlight the benefits of trading with Türkiye. We heard from Mr. Seyfi Onur Sayin, Consul General of Turkiye in Manchester and from Mr. Abdurrahman Deniz, Commercial Counselor of Turkiye in London.
We also heard from Turkish Airlines and had an introduction to their air routes and Corporate Club programme’s benefits.
Türkiye is a large and fascinating market with plenty of export opportunities for UK exporters. It is home to both large multinationals and local businesses with a strong entrepreneurial culture, the country’s prospects are positive and there is room for growth.
Türkiye straddles both Europe and Asia and borders a range of countries. Its strategic location means it can act as a springboard for UK companies to do business in markets such as Central Asia and the South Caucasus. The UK has signed a trade agreement with Türkiye which is now in effect, and Businesses can get strong support from UK Export Finance in accessing the market.
Türkiye and the UK have developed strong commercial ties, particularly in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, healthcare, technology, retail, defence and security, aerospace, and financial and business services.
It has never been a better time to consider this market, and if you have any queries on trading with Türkiye you can contact export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
The Arab British Chamber of Commerce visited Liverpool Chamber on Tuesday 27 September.
We welcomed Mr Bandar Reda and Mr Abdelsalam El-Idrissi and discussed future events and cooperation to highlight opportunities in the 22 markets that they represent.
Finally, a delegation from the City of Mentor in Ohio hosted a roundtable breakfast event on the 29th September, they gave our delegates advice on the best ways to approach trading with the USA and highlighted opportunities on aerospace, healthcare, chemicals and other sectors in Ohio.
with
Civil and structural engineering firm Sutcliffe has reported a £5.2m turnover figure across all four offices of Liverpool, Manchester, Wrexham and London for the previous financial year, with the firm investing 2% of this back into helping good causes throughout the Liverpool City Region and beyond.
With the firm successfully using the business as a “force for good”, they also continued their pledge to benefit the wider community through its work both through their projects and how it impacts our community, with charity dances, hikes up Snowdon, the Coniston Challenge and the sponsorship of local Football and Rugby teams, just a number of activities and ‘good-will gestures’ completed throughout the last financial year.
Having continued to increase its headcount by 12%, giving more opportunities to the next generation, Sutcliffe has completed over 32,000 jobs since 1985 and boasts a plethora of new high-profile project wins throughout the last 12 months, which has
benefited its CSR policy greatly - with these projects representing over £500m worth of construction work in the North of England.
These projects include construction of 155 new homes in Wigan for Torus Developments and 177 new homes in Salford for Salford Council with Seddon Group Ltd. Sutcliffe has also been appointed on the RISE and Yorkshire Housing framework, as well as new projects at the new Mossley Hill Mental Health Hospital, in Liverpool, with Graham Construction and the new Stepping Hill Hospital in Manchester.
Sean Keyes, managing director, Sutcliffe: “Our company’s success has been down to our staff’s hard work and dedication, with enviable staff retention levels and a team ethos to produce the best results for our clients”.
“We will continue to lead the way for innovation and collaboration in the Liverpool City Region and beyond and with our team currently overseeing numerous exciting projects in the education, healthcare and residential sector, I have no
doubt that we will continue to influence the future of our region.”
Sean Keyes, added: “The local community is at the forefront of everything we do and I believe it is incredibly important, particularly at this difficult time, that we continue to fundraise, sponsor good causes and give back to the communities that have presented us with so many fantastic opportunities.”
Sutcliffe take great pride in seeing iconic buildings in the city progress, creating new opportunities, having gone above and beyond to ensure the opening of the new Royal Liverpool Hospital. After attending the Liverpool University Hospitals Annual Ball earlier this year, Sutcliffe confirm that they will support the charity next year. We trust the new hospital will be the exemplar for the next generation of staff and patients.
Everton in the Community introduced a new programme earlier this year aiming to help young people in the region pursue careers in Health and Social Care.
The charity, which is part of Everton FC, launched SCORE (Supporting Career Opportunities, Recruitment and Employment) in a bid to help tackle staff shortages across the health and social care sector.
Funded by The Prince’s Trust, the programme gives young people aged 16-30 from across the Liverpool City Region access to training, employment support, apprenticeships and one-to-one mentoring, enabling them to kick-start their career path.
Opportunities range from frontline roles through to support services that help the sector to function, such as IT, catering, finance, administration, facilities management and logistics. The programme has already seen young people placed in roles such as Occupational Therapist, Personal Support Worker and as Health Care Assistants at the new Royal Liverpool Hospital.
SCORE is part of more than 40 programmes run by Everton in the Community every year, each one specifically designed and developed to combat challenges which are prevalent across Merseyside.
Senior Programme Manager, John McDonald, said: “Working alongside The Prince’s Trust, our latest employability programme presents a fantastic opportunity to join one of the most rewarding industries of employment.
“Whether you’re searching for employment, or looking for a change, we can help develop your skills and confidence to start a new and exciting career.”
As part of the initiative, participants are given a dedicated work coach who provides support to secure employment. They also get the chance to hear from guest speakers within the industry, enabling them to gain insight and hear from those already in the sector.
In addition to high vacancy rates, both the NHS and social care have an ageing workforce, with an average age of 43 and 44 years of age respectively. Only six percent of the NHS workforce is under 25.
John added: “During the last couple of years, we have all become more appreciative of, and grateful for, our wonderful Health and Social Care workers across the country.
“As the sector faces a crucial time of staff shortages, it’s important that the next generation of healthcare workers have the tools and skills they need to access their chosen career and we’re looking forward to helping local young people take the first steps towards their future.”
For more information visit Everton in the Community - Start Your Future
•
With You is a charity providing free, confidential support to people experiencing issues with substances and alcohol. We believe that employment is an essential part of people’s recovery from drug and alcohol use.
Our Individual Placement and Support (IPS) service in Liverpool aims to support our service users into paid employment within weeks. Organisations that partner with our IPS service receive opportunities to employ talented and passionate individuals, who will soon become reliable staff members. Our IPS employment specialists support you throughout the process. Since the launch of our IPS services in Liverpool last November, we have effectively partnered with over 130 different organisations by helping to match them with individuals looking for long-term employment opportunities.
• Employees who are willing to start work quickly
• Demonstrable corporate and social responsibility with access to under represented groups within the workplace and a more diverse group of employees
• Staff with skills and expertise that match your needs
Improved retention, higher productivity and better employee relations
• Support from the IPS employment specialists throughout
Our service provides ongoing support for the individual and their employer. The model follows the “place then train” principle and belief that “nothing prepares someone for work better than work itself”. It not only offers our service users support to gain employment but also works with their employers to build positive relationships, iron out any issues or concerns at the early stages of the work contract and helps individuals become valued resources to their employers and integrated members of the workforce and society.
“I started taking painkillers for proper reasons, but at the age of 40 and following the start of my relationship breakdown, I soon realised that they took the edge off my emotional pain. We had three sons and I thought we would be together forever. I felt lost. My use of painkillers was like my own secret way of getting through it all.
“During my secret madness my partner left and the landlord decided to sell up, forcing me to leave the home where we had raised our three boys. I was evicted by the council and placed into temporary emergency housing. I was in so much debt with bailiffs knocking on my door, but I carried on using all of my money for painkillers.
“I was 56 when I walked into With You. They gave me a substitute for the painkillers. I finally felt grounded. I had money again and gradually started to pick up bills and tackle the debts. My Recovery Worker referred me to IPS, which gave me a big nudge to finding work. I remember meeting Vicki, my Employment Specialist. She told me about the new Lived Experience Support Worker roles within my local council. I took the job spec away. I thought that maybe this was my destiny, like I was meant to do it.
“At the interview, I arrived an hour early and just sat in my car. I felt edgy and nervous and didn’t know what to do with my brain. But the interview panel were all super friendly and made me feel at ease. I felt that I was amongst good people. I got offered the job which was amazing. Being able to feel connected to something, to be able to pass my experience onto others really is a high privilege.
“I have never been a good person at seeing my good side, never been fair on myself. But now, I have started to have a higher view of who I am. I have gained so much from IPS. A great deal of hope and confidence. I now see that I am more capable than I ever thought I was. I have never felt this happy in myself.”
If you would like to partner with our IPS services, please speak to Sue Pridmore sue.pridmore@wearewithyou.org.uk or visit our website www.wearewithyou.org.uk
The day began with an early morning breakfast meeting at Bold Street Coffee in The Plaza. I was meeting with the owner of a young, growing business that had outgrown its home office and was now ready to have a base in the city. The company’s brief for a new space included the need to feel more connected to their clients and peer businesses in Liverpool, while also offering versatile transport links as well as bike storage and changing facilities for its expanding team.
Happily, we were able to reach an agreement on their new home and they will be joining The Plaza community soon. I think that sense of community within the building really captured their imagination, as we were sat alongside customers from all business sectors, catching up over a coffee or collaborating on projects.
My next port of call was Liverpool Chamber’s Well-Connected event, which is a staple networking event in my diary each month as I always meet somebody new there. We have been pleased to host some of the events at the Cotton Exchange and The Plaza and they are always so well attended. I also bumped into an existing contact and we seized the opportunity to devise a plan for a “network-out” event in our fitness studio space at The Plaza.
Feeling fully energised after a morning of connecting with local businesses, I made a quick dart over to the Cotton Exchange, where I was hosting a lunchtime workshop on behalf
of Bruntwood Spark, which is our innovative business support programme for customers and local Liverpool businesses. At some stage, every business needs a helping hand to spark a great idea that maybe improves their product or how they operate. Through Spark, we work with a rich pool of local and national partners to support businesses and give them the tools they need for growth.
Guests from more than 30 businesses joined us at the session, which focussed on how to tackle ‘impostor syndrome’. I’m sure this is an issue that most of us have experienced at some point in our personal and professional lives, so it was great to hear the shared experiences of businesspeople from across the city region.
The remainder of my afternoon was spent at the offices of Sciontec, which is the spinout development company of Knowledge Quarter Liverpool and is operated under a unique shareholding agreement between Liverpool John Moores University, the University of Liverpool, Liverpool City Council and Bruntwood SciTech.
After popping in to chat with my colleagues and our partners, I headed upstairs in The Spine to attend a board meeting with the Future Impact Board, a collective of professionals under the age of 30 who are committed to providing positive change for the future of the Liverpool City Region. We discussed our plans for an exciting campaign that is due to be launched in the coming
months, aimed at ensuring the voices of young professionals are heard and included in longterm decisions being made for the city region.
With the day’s final meeting behind me, I walked back into the Commercial District and met up with a handful of colleagues for a welldeserved bite to eat at Rudy’s Pizzeria in Queen Avenue. Always a great end to a busy day.
Celebrating Liverpool Chamber’s Property and Construction Network (PropCon) launch at Melwood, regeneration Group, Torus, discusses the importance of cross-sector collaboration in transforming communities.
Simply put, our commercial entities – Torus Developments, HMS and Torus Homes –generate income, which is reinvested in the work our charitable arm, Torus Foundation, delivers. This covers a spectrum of activities, but generally sees profits reinvested into creating training and employment opportunities, providing health and wellbeing activities, and assisting people with accessing financial support.
“Since amalgamation in January 2019, this model has seen us reinvest over £6.8 million into our communities and our redevelopment of the Melwood site will once again see us leverage a housingscheme to benefit the region.
“We must have effective collaboration across public and private organisations to obtain agreements, bring forward opportunities, align interests, and co-invest to increase supply and address the housing shortage.
“Our developments are fantastic examples of how cross-sector partnerships can create something truly outstanding, not just modern affordable housing.
communities benefit from the ongoing investment.
“As part of the Torus Group, we understand how beneficial it is for communities to keep investment, skills and opportunities in the local area which is why we gift 100% of our commercial profits to the Torus Foundation and take an active role in recruiting and training apprentices.
The launch brought together professionals from the property, construction, built environment and architectural sectors, to discuss the importance of housingled regeneration and how it can create positive, sustainable change for an area.
As part of the event Paul Cherpeau, Chief Executive Officer, Liverpool Chamber, chaired a Q&A discussion with a panel of experts including Torus’ Group CEO, Steve Coffey; Torus’ Chief Operating Officer, Cath Murray-Howard; and Managing Director of HMS, Paul Worthington.
Cath Murray-Howard spoke to the attendees about the Group’s Operating Model and how it helps to galvanise the growth of strong communities.
“The Torus Operating Model is unique and one which creates a ‘virtuous circle’ and lasting change for our communities.
“Creating thriving, multi-generational housing developments is how Torus helps develop areas and, that is why, we actively invest in schemes that will galvanise the growth of strong communities.”
Responding to audience questions, Paul Worthington discussed the importance of the built environment in creating more jobs and opportunities that will benefit communities across the North West for years to come.
“It is no secret that ongoing collaboration and partnership is central to good business and creating sustainable change and in the construction sector, building relationships is as important as building homes.
“PropCon will give industry representatives from across the city an opportunity to network regularly, and I am sure will be the beginning of a number of homes built in the coming years, keeping profit in the Liverpool City region, and ensuring
“Each year, HMS takes on two cohorts of apprentices, totalling to over 30 apprenticeships created annually, and we are working hard to highlight the opportunities available to people in the sector. Over the years, the skills gap in construction has grown with the number of people choosing it as a viable career option tailing off. This is something we want to rectify as it is a thriving and growing industry and one that will open a number of doors for people and communities.
“This commitment to the next generation of workers is something I am passionate about, and I know PropCon, by proxy, will create even more opportunities for people across Liverpool. In the coming months and years, I look forward to welcoming new blood to a sector that is ever evolving and leading the way in the regions response to large-scale challenges we have never known, but as we continue our journey to becoming green, innovative ideas and people will be our secret weapon to success.”
For more information about Torus please visit www.torus.co.uk
The working world is complex and for many businesses navigating their way through the post-covid landscape, overcoming business challenges is at the forefront. While overcoming these challenges, organisations are in an ideal position to also support the upskilling of students in readiness for the graduate job market.
At LJMU this opportunity has been identified and a mechanism put in place to bring both organisations and students together. The Liverpool Business School’s Business Clinic was established to provide a range of support options to SMEs, multinationals, start-ups and not for profit
organisations in the Liverpool City Region. It is a place that acts as a source of support that businesses can access to help address the challenges they face moving forward. 2022 sees the opening of a designated Business Clinic space, located on Hardman Street alongside LJMU’s Legal Advice Centre.
Business challenges are brought into the clinic and converted into projects that provide students with the opportunity to practically apply and develop their theoretical knowledge in real-world professional environments.
Projects have been completed by students in Sport Business, Marketing, Finance and International Business. In the coming years, the clinic will expand to include more programmes such as Events Management, International Tourism Management and
Human Resource Management. Projects delivered to date include market planning, strategy planning, diversification of products and services, market research, social media campaigns and competitor analysis.
Our students provide research, genuine innovation, and fresh solutions to all types of needs.
“It has been a pleasure to work with so many passionate LJMU students who have been keen to showcase their credentials as the marketeers of the future in our industry. They have provided genuine help to us by undertaking a real-life research project”Marketing Manager at Wigan Warriors
‘The project work is very creative and to be able to work on a live project alongside a client is really interesting. The skills I am learning from this project will help improve my career prospects’ - Final year Sports Business student
During 2021 – 2022, the Business Clinic saw 290 students provide a service to over 72 organisations.
Want to know more? - contact Track Dinning at t.m.dinning@ljmu.ac.uk
The 2022 report by The Open University Business Barometer found that more than seven-inten firms of all sizes are experiencing skills shortages. These findings have highlighted the need for employers to take a long-term strategic approach to address this growing skills gap.
With half of these firms now planning to increase investment in staff training over the next year, businesses are looking at ways to help their employees upskill and develop in the most efficient and effective way, and distance learning is a great way to achieve this.
Due to changing perceptions of distance learning, largely due to the pandemic and the increasing need for flexible ways to learn from home, it has become the fastest-growing market in the education industry with a 900% growth rate globally since the year 2000. Many firms are now turning to online qualifications that fit around employees’ work and personal life to deliver an effective way to grow within their career.
An increasingly popular choice for employees to gain a formal, accredited qualification around their work is a Business HNC and HND (a level 4 and 5 qualification that’s fully accredited by Pearson). The course is a specialist workrelated programme covering all the critical knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to work and progress in the business sector. It also offers pathways into various careers to suit the individual
including accounting, HR, marketing, law and more.
An alternative, better suited for practicing middle managers looking to prepare for senior management responsibilities, might be an ILM Level 3 and Level 5 course in Leadership and Management. These bitesized qualifications, awarded by The City and Guilds of London Institute, are made up of a broad range of units covering skills in six core areas – working with people, managing yourself and personal skills, providing direction, facilitating innovation and change, achieving results, and using resources.
With more than two-thirds of SMEs now currently facing skills shortages, now is a great time to look at how online education can help fill skills gaps within your business. For more information, email enquiries@unicourse.org
The City of Liverpool is a leader in international trade, manufacturing, and innovationdriven start-ups. Liverpool possesses a fully modern worldclass infrastructure that includes the expanding Port of Liverpool and John Lennon International Airport near The Liverpool Chamber of Commerce (LCC). Vision meeting challenge is part of the fabric of Liverpool.
This autumn businesses will face a perfect financial storm; rising energy prices, the cost of living crisis and banks struggling to support companies as they may have in the past, due to the impact of the pandemic. For many SMEs, the routes through which they may have traditionally accessed financial support are now either closed or limited and business owners are struggling to find solutions that address many pressing needs. There has never been a greater need for businesses to work with alternative providers of finance, yet so many are not aware of their options outside the banks, or how they can access such alternatives.
Paul Tricket, BDM at Bathgate Business Finance, said: “At Bathgate we aim to demystify alternative finance options and make them easier for businesses to access. Many of the products we work with are
not well-known by many business owners and can be game-changers in the current climate. Alternative finance options that Bathgate are currently seeing a need for include Merchant Cash Advance (MCA), which is ideal for retail and hospitality businesses, and others that take payments via card terminals and online, as MCA funders connecting their technology to your bank and card acquiring data and base lending on turnover of monthly card receipts. “MCA in particular suits businesses in recovery - as many are - but also seasonal businesses,” Paul explained. “This is because repayments fluctuate as a percentage of ongoing card receipts, rather than being a fixed amount each month like a term loan.” Non-traditional energy-related finance solutions are also a key option for the autumn and winter ahead, which can provide loans for businesses struggling to meet escalating costs of new energy contracts, breaking down higher deposits into more manageable payments over three - six months.
As well as addressing current business challenges, speed of accessing finance is also vital to pressed businesses. “Dealing with sudden and unprecedented changes like the energy crisis and the pandemic means that business owners often need funding yesterday and fast turnaround is vital,” said Paul. “Alternative options can often deliver on this in ways that traditional finance options cannot.” Illustrating this, Bathgate works with a funder that helps companies with R&D Tax Credit submissions, then loans them the amount that is owed within days. This
We were unsure initially however it was so beneficial to us as a business. So much so we’ve now gone through the process twice in the last 12 months!
After an initial meeting with Lisa O’Farrell (Employer Engagement Officer) whom we met at the Liverpool Chamber Well Connected event last November we decided to take up the offer. Lisa spoke with so much enthusiasm and from what was said it was easy to recognise the importance and considerable value students and graduates bring to the Liverpool City Region Economy. By retaining talent, the university can support local businesses in various sectors.
The process for taking on an intern is very straightforward as it’s a quick online Q &
A . Once completed a brief of the interns role Is required so as to attract applicants. Students apply via CV through Unitemps at LJMU. Marni Blackman-Cook (Office Manager) was our point of contact throughout. We were fortunate in that our business development role had numerous applicants right up until the closing date for applicatio ns. Interviewing our shortlist of talent soon followed – this proved to be insightful for both ourselves and the applicants – for some this was their first real interview! Albeit not too daunting we hope. It was evident to us just how talented all of the students we met were however naturally we could only choose one (more’s the pity).
After appointing our ‘chosen one’ the weeks in the office that followed really were great and as beneficial for us as they were (hopefully!) for our intern. Its fair to say we learned new skills and have become more knowledgeable in some areas as a result of our students’ expertise! Our latest Intern went on to secure a fantastic graduate position in the city at a
removes the burden of the six - 12 weeks for the money to arrive, supporting cash flow until the tax rebate arrives and the loan can be settled.
Perhaps most vital to understanding and accessing alternative finance options, however, is the support of a trusted advisor or advisors so they can match your businesses’ needs and specific circumstances to the best solution.
“Navigating the range of options available isn’t easy and working with a trusted advisor can significantly reduce the burden of finding the best solution,” said Paul. “At Bathgate our approach is to take time to understand our clients’ business and market, then accessing our team’s wide pool of expertise and network of contacts to tailor a solution that resolves immediate needs and also supports longer term plans. There is finance out there to support most businesses, and experts like our team at Bathgate are there to help them find the right match.” Bathgate Business Finance sources finance from an extensive range of alternative and traditional funder partners, as well as offering own-book lending. For more information visit bathgatebf.co.uk or contact Paul Trickett on paul@bathgatebf.co.uk or 07469 140 180
top 6 accountancy firm – great news for them and something we are very proud of.
Our most recent internship was for a total of 140 hrs (20 consecutive days), 4 hrs of which were spent on LJMU training. Our intern completed a total of 136 hrs on work set by ourselves . Weekly timesheet approval on behalf of the intern (via the Unitemps portal) is required however all is extremely straightforward. The ‘Students at the Heart of Business’ lunch hosted by LJMU in July as a thank you to all local businesses that took part in the internship programme was most enjoyable. Shulah Jones from LJMU spoke passionately about both internship programmes and Graduate Futures, the latter being a project funded through the European Social Fund providing opportunities to increase graduate retention via collaboration, joint working and knowledge transfer partnerships across the Liverpool City Region eco system.
To find out more contact GraduateFutures@ljmu.ac.uk or for Internship enquiries in the first instance email L.OFarrell@ljmu.ac.uk
whilst also supporting Liverpool City Region’s economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic and re-establishing the organisation as the city’s voice for business.
The Chamber has successfully developed a dynamic and powerful network of businesses within its membership, from SMEs to multi-national firms, while several new Patrons and Strategic Partners have joined its portfolio, including BT Local Business, Sutcliffe, Liverpool Hope University and Bruntwood Works.
The Chamber currently delivers a range of engagement activities and international trade support for businesses. Through the Quarterly Economic Survey, it provides the most comprehensive and respected insight into business sentiment in the region and across the UK. It has 16 full-time employees with turnover of approximately £1.1m, generated through membership subscriptions, export advisory services and publicly-funded business support.
Neil Ashbridge, stated: “Alison is a highly respected and well-known figure in Liverpool’s professional community and her leadership and experience will be a great asset to the Chamber’s future work. Alison is committed to improving connectivity, inclusivity and opportunity in business which aligns with the Chamber’s aspirations moving forward.”
Liverpool Chamber of Commerce has nominated Alison Lobb as its next Chair of the Board.
The Chamber will formalise the appointment at its Annual General Meeting on November 1, which will be for an initial period of three years. Alison will provide leadership of the Board in its oversight of the Chamber and the attainment of objectives within its ambitious strategic plan.
Alison has undertaken the role of chair of the Chamber’s Business Policy Committee for the past three years and joined the Board as a non-Executive Director in 2021.
She is the Managing partner at Morecrofts Solicitors and is a highly-experienced lawyer and former president of Liverpool Law Society as well as a founder of the Merseyside Independent Business Awards.
Alison will commence her position as chair after her formal appointment by Chamber member businesses at the November Annual General Meeting. She will succeed Neil Ashbridge, who has completed his sixyear fixed-term tenure.
In the past 18 months the Chamber has undergone significant transformation. The organisation has relocated its head office after 86 years to the Cotton Exchange building and successfully restructured its membership scheme to reflect the city region’s changing economic landscape
Speaking of her appointment, Alison Lobb said: “Liverpool Chamber is the authentic voice of business in the Liverpool City Region and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead this organisation and its membership into a new era of development. I look forward to working with the board of directors and the excellent operational team to drive further improvements on behalf of our members and the wider business community, maximising our operational resources and demonstrating best practice and value to our stakeholders at a time of much economic uncertainty.”
Paul Cherpeau, chief executive of Liverpool Chamber, said: “Alison’s appointment comes at an exciting time for the Chamber and I’m sure our members will be looking ahead with great optimism about the future of our organisation.
“On behalf of our members and the wider Chamber team, we say goodbye and thank you to Neil Ashbridge, who has led us through a period of unprecedented change and modernisation. He leaves us in a strong position and primed for future success.”
When I became Chair of the Chamber in December 2016 businesses were faced with heightened uncertainty following the vote to leave the European Union. As a result, the exchange rate had fallen sharply, output had moderated, investment intentions had eased and employment growth had slowed. As the effects of leaving the EU became clearer, business conditions improved and remained positive until the start of the Covid pandemic in 2020.
Although initially the impact of the pandemic on business was brutal, decisive action by government through a range of support packages for business helped to mitigate the sharp fall in demand. As Covid restrictions were lifted, demand picked up sharply, not only here in the UK but globally.
Over the last twelve months however the long-term impact of Covid restrictions on global supply has become evident and, coupled with the supply impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the UK leaving the EU, has resulted in inflation reaching its highest level for decades.
Inflation creates uncertainty. While the balance of forecasts suggests that inflation will peak over the next six months there is no certainty and, importantly, it is unclear if wages will respond putting further pressure on inflation. The response of the Bank of England (and other Central Banks) has been to raise interest rates increasing the cost of borrowing and slowing demand. It is unclear how far rates will need to rise to bring inflation back under control and over what time frame. Government is also taking action with support packages to help with the sharp rise in the cost of living (in particular energy costs) though at present the extent of support for business is unclear.
Looking forward how can a stable and certain environment be created for business to thrive?
It is crucial that inflation is brought under control as soon as possible. And, Government needs to give clear messaging on the support it will provide
business in the short to medium term, while maintaining market confidence in the long term outlook for the UK economy.
Labour market conditions have become tight for the majority of businesses, which is constraining growth. Addressing the skills shortages is crucial in order that business has the confidence that it can recruit the skills needed to fuel growth.
Business also needs finance to support growth. Compared with the position immediately after the financial crisis commercial lenders are in a better position to ensure business can access funding, but communication on how to access the most appropriate funding packages remains an issue and needs improvement.
Creating a more positive business environment outside London and the South East of England through better transport and communication links will improve productivity throughout the UK. Actions not words are urgently needed.
When I took over as Chair of the Chamber, its over reliance on Public
Sector contracts, which had been slashed as part of cut backs, had left it vulnerable to risk. The Board’s priorities were to refocus on the Chamber’s core purpose and restructure the team accordingly, enabling it not only to bounce back but also (and unbeknown to us at the time) put the Chamber in a strong position to deal with the effects of the pandemic. As a result, Liverpool and Sefton now have an active and vibrant Chamber providing support and networking opportunities for businesses and being the respected voice of business not only in Liverpool and Sefton but also across the Liverpool City Region.
I took up the role of Chair on an interim basis (six months), which turned into a full term of six years. Whilst not without its challenges, with the help of my fellow board members, the executive and staff it has been both enjoyable and rewarding. As my tenure comes to an end, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to contribute to the Chamber’s successful journey to where it is today. I leave confident that it has a strong future, innovating and adapting to provide support for the local business community, as it has been doing since 1850.
In recent years, apprenticeships have risen considerably, and are now more popular than ever before. In the most recent academic year (2021/22), higher apprenticeship starts alone increased by 9.4% to 88,200 in the UK, compared to 80,700 in the same period last year.
Today, the available apprenticeship routes are vast, with so many different and diverse roles young people and those returning to education can pursue, whether that be engineering, health and social care, IT and business skills or even media and photography.
Whilst historically many have not realised the true value of gaining real world skills through an apprenticeship, more and more people are now realising their potential and are choosing them over the traditional academic route – whether they’re just starting out in their careers, are looking to upskill or want a change of direction.
An apprenticeship is a real job, combining on the job training with technical training to prepare the learner for a career in their chosen profession. They are available for anyone aged 16 and over and are available at a range of levels, from Level 2 all the way up to degree-level apprenticeships.
Taking the apprenticeship route allows an individual to study for a work-based qualification that can significantly improve their future earning power and career enjoyment. But it also provides many benefits for the employer. Apprenticeships are now being acknowledged by more and more employers as a vital investment for the future of their business – either by recruiting them as new staff or by developing existing employees to further their careers.
Apprenticeships have become a vital part of the economy and employment market.
Research has shown that employing apprentices improves the productivity of businesses, with the Centre for Economics and Business Research reporting that an apprentice can boost a business’s productivity by up to £10,000 per year, with figures for some sectors being even higher.
One of the most significant benefits of apprenticeships, for employers and staff alike, is that they help organisations keep their employees motivated and committed for the long-term, by helping them develop their skills over several years. Apprentices will be working in the knowledge that at the end of this period they will have a qualification that is valuable to them individually, to their employer and the industry as a whole.
For young apprentices, it’s a chance to earn while they learn and give them a head start in the jobs market. And for employers, it’s a chance to source and attract enthusiastic, energetic people with a fresh outlook on the world of work.
This year, The City of Liverpool College has seen a significant rise in apprenticeship starters Particularly in our higher-level apprenticeships. Our Professional Construction Level 3 courses are up 30% from last year, and 160% on figures from the academic year 2020/21. Similarly, our Level 4 offerings have risen over 41% this September compared to last year and are up over 118% from 2020/21. The talent is there for the taking.
As the biggest college in the Liverpool City Region and the leading FE college apprenticeships provider, The City of Liverpool College aims to help people from all backgrounds and of all ages, gain experience and succeed in their chosen profession. We work closely with some of the biggest and best employers in the region to ensure students get the most out of their experience by teaching them the advanced skills required to work in their chosen industry.
Offering over 30 apprenticeship courses across a variety of industries, apprentices learn in our industry standard workshops and purpose-built facilities, such as our Digital Academy, Bosch certified Gas workshops and Building Services workshops, as well as our Hair & Beauty and Hospitality & Catering academies. Our apprentices are supported by our expert college tutors and experienced skills coaches throughout their programme, offering their knowledge and expertise to grow talent.
Apprenticeships are an invaluable tool for upskilling in areas that matter most to employers. They’re a highly effective route to recruit and train future talent, address skills shortages and develop careers across core parts of your business.
The world of work is evolving faster than ever, so it’s never been more important to secure the best new talent to fill key skills gaps to build a resilient workforce. With role-specific development programmes and tailored on-the-job training to maximise impact, learners effectively apply their skills from day one of their apprenticeship. The employer upskills where resource is needed most, and learners apply newly learnt skills straight away – a win-win situation for everyone.
Not only do apprenticeships provide employers with a skilled workforce, they also boost social mobility, reaching people from diverse backgrounds to open up opportunities for everyone, and diversifying the world of work. Ultimately, apprenticeships can help to inject new perspectives into a work culture to create a rounded, balanced and more successful workforce.
Smaller firms have long been champions of apprenticeships; however, we’re now seeing more leading names across various sectors turn to apprenticeships to source and recruit new talent. This includes councils, such as Liverpool City Council and other local authorities across the
City Region, construction firms such as Plus Dane Housing, as well as leading TV production company, Lime Pictures.
At The City of Liverpool College, we’re passionate about working with the City Region and industry to ensure we can provide the skills that are needed in line with regional and business priorities. The evidence is plentiful that apprenticeships play a significant role in building a sustainable workforce and moving local people into well paid and highly skilled jobs. Businesses and local authorities are also actively expanding their sustainability impact by focusing on the wider green agenda.
It’s our job to ensure we’re providing the skills our region needs to meet these changing priorities, such as adapting our curriculum in construction and retrofitting, as well as gas and engineering. This adaptability means we’re also able to provide bespoke training for employers to meet their needs. We know that every business has its own priorities, and often a ‘one size fits all’ approach doesn’t work, so we work closely with our industry partners to develop our training programmes around them – helping them to develop their team and ultimately, grow their business.
Apprenticeships and training of the very highest calibre play a vital role, not just for businesses based in Liverpool or Merseyside, but also for the region’s economy as a whole, to help people and businesses thrive.
By investing in their people and their qualifications and skills, businesses are equipping themselves to build highperforming teams to drive their business forward and boost long-term employee retention. It really makes business sense.
The City of Liverpool College is engaged with over 1,000 local employers to deliver a highly- trained, highly skilled workforce. If you want to find out more about apprentices could help make your business more productive, contact the team at apprenticeships@liv-coll.ac.uk
By investing in their people and their qualifications and skills, businesses are equipping themselves to build high-performing teams to drive their business forward and boost long-term employee retention. It really makes business sense.
Associate Professor, Marketing, Technology, and Sponsorship, University of Liverpool School of Management. David is a Senior Lecturer located in the Management School’s Marketing Group. David is the founding Director of the University of Liverpool’s MSc in Sports Business and former Director of Studies for the Liverpool MBA. David also teaches on executive education programmes and will be leading on the Digital Adoption module for the Help to Grow: Management programme targeting small business leaders. David has held applied research, consultancy and business development roles in high technology, start-up, and professional sport (football) industries.
Digital transformation is essentially the reimaging of business in the digital age. That means thinking about the digital systems that give shape to business opportunities. Technology is a given here, however high costs of technical requirements sometimes make technology intimidating for SMBs. The key point to understand however is that technology is not the core ingredient to successful digital transformation – it’s people.
Digital transformation is contingent on four interconnected areas:
• Technology (resource)
• Data (resource)
• Processes (operations)
• Culture (buy-in)
A successful digital transformation requires attention on all four areas. Where firms go wrong is to immediately start with technology. This is useless if you don’t know what processes you are changing, or if your talent base lacks the technical expertise to integrate it. Another mistake is to jump on the data-bandwagon. Data – and particularly “big-data” - is just a buzzword. Data is useless without people working to make it influential.
The three stages of a firms’ digital adoption are:
1. Digitisation - information that a company has captured historically and is transforming it into a digital setting so it can be analysed and shared easily to improve insights.
The benefits for SMBs - enhanced insights and market intelligence, faster and improved decision-making.
2. Digitalisation - changing the processes and systems that sit around the data, for example the digital automation of manual administrative tasks.
Many organisation invest resources such as software in digitising their data, but very few invest time and money in restructuring the processes around that digitisation.
The benefits for SMBs - the ability to reduce human error, improve efficiency and productivity.
3. Digital transformation - how the business will evolve in line with the greater digital adoption. This stage focuses on developing integrated systems that help the business to respond to emerging technologies as a way of continuously improving performance and market presence.
The benefits for SMBs – the ability to create new business models and revenue streams.
Based on research of 60 SMBs across the Liverpool City Region that have been through the Help To Grow: Management programme at the University of Liverpool, the majority of SMBs are between stage 1 (digitisation) and stage 2 (digitalisation) of their digital adoption journey.
Start with People – not technology.
72% of SMB employees responded that they felt they had no clear direction from senior management around the benefits of introducing digital processes are.
It is crucial for business leaders to explain from the outset why they are digitising and the benefits, for employees specifically. Technology is simply an enabler of improved human performance. If new technologies do not positively impact human performance and improve the bottom line then they are just an expensive business distraction. Creating “buy-in” is core to successful digital adoption as it shapes the mental models of staff necessary for changes in routine activities. If employees don’t see a clear direction and rationale from the organisation then they won’t invest their time in trying to use and understand it.
Some of the biggest business challenges of digital transformation are around training employees to use new technologies and software. Most third party providers will offer training as part of their service.
However, 30% of employees we spoke to have not received formal training. Investing in the technology without investing in training staff how to use it is short sighted.
This indicates a skills gap with SMB leaders around understanding the importance of training employees to use new technologies, and for employees to be able to step out of their comfort zone and see how the technology, whilst having an impact on their specific job or function, might also benefit the organisation more holistically.
Glass Ceilings® provides Business and HR consultancy services, specialising in inclusion and culture throughout the employee lifecycle to prepare businesses for The Future of Work.
What’s being referred to as the ‘Future of Work’ is here, and it’s here to stay!
The big trends we are seeing are:
• Inclusion and Belonging
• Employee Value Proposition
• Wellbeing, embedded throughout organisations
• Clarity of Role and Purpose
• Career Development
• Employee Voice and Choice
• Agility and Flexibility
• Employer Authenticity
At Glass Ceilings® we’ve seen these trends emerging since before the pandemic and we were already working to futureproof organisations. We are helping organisations through the cost of living crisis and post-Covid recovery to provide modern, dynamic workplaces in which everyone reaches their potential.
Let’s face it, ‘normal’ wasn’t always great pre-pandemic! Many people and businesses faced barriers to growth, development, and opportunity. Unfortunately, we are seeing some health and development inequalities widening as a result of the economic situation, disability, and the impact of poorly implemented flexible working.
We understand this is a challenging time for businesses. Times are tough and leaders are trying to balance keeping organisations afloat whilst supporting employees. Studies repeatedly show that engaged and inclusive workplaces are healthier, therefore more productive and profitable.
We enjoy partnering with senior leaders and HR teams to embrace and embed modern working practices that sustain into the future.
Our mission is Removing Barriers to Growth, Development, and Opportunity in the organisations we work with.
Our Employment Relations Division provides:
• Advisory Services
• Independent Investigations
• HR Policy - review, development, and implementation
• Engagement
• Working with Trade Unions & Collective Bargaining
• Stress Awareness and Management & Mental Health First Aid
We have launched two Specialist Business Advice Packages on:
• Cost of Living in employment, and
• Covid Business Recovery,
alongside our wider advisory services to help senior leaders, business owners, and HR professionals get through this winter and build for better times ahead whilst making sure that nobody is left behind.
In recognition of the economic climate, we are offering 10% off the Specialist Business Advice Packages exclusively to Liverpool and Sefton Chamber Members. advice@glassceilings.co.uk
Our Change Management Division provides Leadership of change projects:
• Organisation design - team, divisional, or organisation-wide
• Organisation development - devising inclusive performance and
development approaches, tailored to organisation and sector
• Leadership development - all levels of leadership, including Future Leaders and Inclusive Leaders
• Governance - supporting Boards and Senior Leadership Teams to put in place effective governance of organisation structures aligned to people strategy, policy, procedures, and practices.
Our Policy and Research Division engages on key issues that create barriers in employment and raises awareness, with the aim of breaking down those barriers.
• Research
• Publications
• Public Speaking
• Webinars
Our aim is to be at the forefront of national debate and conversations on key issues, influencing national policy and interventions, to make positive progress on wider trends.
We stay up to date with the very latest trends and thinking and we never base our understanding on assumptions, we engage with people affected through professional networks and research.
If you’re looking for a nonjudgemental, professional service to partner with you to solve problems, we would love to hear from you: enquiries@glassceilings.co.uk
Gavin Sherratt speaks to Professor Damian Hughes in the latest episode of Haines Watts series of raw and honest business conversations, Owning It.
Over the past 11 years, Liverpool-based firm Mashbo has grown and evolved from building websites for a host of SMEs in the North West, to a fully-fledged software development consultancy helping national and international clients to harness the power of technology.
In his Owning It interview, Gavin discusses growing up in a deprived area of Stoke, living with anxiety and how seeking out experiences, rather than academic success, has been foundational in Mashbo’s establishment and growth.
As a person who “fell into business by mistake”, Gavin explains how being offered the opportunity to mix a record at Cream
Technical event production company MSP Global to light pathway to creative careers with school leavers programme.
Market-leaders in virtual, hybrid and live event production are set to broaden opportunities for young people looking to gain experience in the events, production, and broadcast industry.
Over the summer, the Liverpool-based company have provided students leaving secondary school with the opportunity to gain real industry experience in creative
by DJ Paul Oakenfold helped him to discover the power of waiting, shaping his future approach to leadership.
Speaking after the interview, Gavin said: “Being able to wait and just take a few seconds to take a step back, be outside the moment, and separate my answer from my own anxiety or insecurity has been one of the most powerful things I have learned.
“It’s opened me up to new experiences personally, but also allowed me to do this in a business sense too. Waiting allows you to respond better to your team or clients, to consider their strengths and stresses and respond in a way that makes them feel valued and respected.
“There have been times in my own career where I haven’t felt valued and it has really impacted my mental health and eventually led to me moving on, for my own wellbeing. That’s been a big driver in ensuring that anyone involved with Mashbo - team, clients, collaborators or peers - feels valued. Allowing that pause
roles including sound engineering, lighting design, warehouse operation and event management.
The company have previously supported several skills engagement initiatives including Liverpool Chamber’s SchoolBusiness Network and Hugh Baird College Digital Stakeholder Pledge. As official Business Partners of Hugh Baird College, MSP offer regular work experience to students as well as industry advice and curriculum support to the College.
MSP has more recently set out to address skills gaps in the industry by offering paid internships and flexible shift work to aspiring technicians and creative young people who may be pondering their future careers.
means someone else feeling heard or valued and it is the best way to develop a motivated and effective team or business network.
“It was really fantastic - and a little nervewracking - to speak to Damian about my journey and how Mashbo has become the company it is today, and I hope that some of the lessons I’ve learned will help others on their way too.”
You can watch or listen to Gavin’s episode here: https://www.hwca.com/resources/ owning-it/owning-it-businessconversations/episode-7-gavinsherratt-mashbo-the-power-of-wait/
Summer intern Jonny, 16, explains what the opportunity meant to him: “Work experience at MSP was an amazing experience and opportunity to learn new skills, doing rewarding hands-on work, alongside working with a great team. Going out on jobs was an exciting way of getting a taste of what it’s like to work in AV, and I would 100% say that the work experience has given me an idea of where I want to go in the future.”
Joe, 16, commented: “When you leave school, you’re faced with so many potential pathways it can be overwhelming. To get the opportunity to gain experience out in the field has given me confidence in my chosen career path.”
Colin Reader, co-founder and managing director said: “We have always been committed to training and mentoring the next generation of technical engineers. The school leavers programme is designed to encourage young people to explore their creative passions, without applying limits to their potential. We have an opendoor policy for work experience and urge those students passionate in creative and technical careers to get in touch.”
info@msp-av.co.uk
The app is available to download now, giving readers and viewers a fingertip-touch ‘on-switch’ to hundreds of articles and videos about everything that matters –and more – in the city.
And the app is linked to a reward scheme that will bring bonuses and benefits not just to its people, but to businesses and business-owners in and across Liverpool City Region.
The Guide Liverpool Director, Jay Hynd, says: “Everyone wants to access things easily, and with the way the world is moving apps are really prominent in people’s lives, so it was hugely important for us to get one up and running.
“We have our website, and we have our social channels, and people rely on us for keeping them up to date on what’s going on. The new app brings everything together in one place, making it easier than ever to do that.”
It’s hoped the app will expand The Guide Liverpool’s reach and enable it to get more news out across and around the region.
Jay adds: “This is just another way, another platform, for us to keep shouting about Liverpool in a positive way; whether someone wants to know what’s going on at the weekend, where there’s a good restaurant to eat in, or they just want a good news story from the city.
“People can sit and watch the videos on their phone, or digest the latest news, and get notifications whenever there’s an update, in the easiest way possible.”
Since it started seven years ago The Guide Liverpool has become one of the favourite go-to places for news and event information for Merseyside and surrounding areas. And on top of its success, which has grown increasingly every year, it has developed more services to support and promote the city.
In lockdown especially, The Guide played a vital role in helping to set up a delivery service that got essential goods out to people, especially those who were vulnerable, and kept local businesses afloat.
And it has become a primary producer of videos, working with big-name clients including Liverpool ONE, Merseyrail, Liverpool City Council, M&S Bank Arena, and Culture Liverpool to name a few.
Indeed, it produced the official video to back Liverpool’s bid to host the Eurovision Song Contest for 2023. Shown on the BBC’s website, it helped take Liverpool from one of 20 bidding cities through to the final two, in competition now only with Glasgow - something Jay admits was a very ‘proud’ moment.
“The essence of The Guide Liverpool has always been in that third and vital word,” says Jay. “Liverpool. As the media landscape has changed and become more and more national, we have stayed hyper-local.
“I love Liverpool, I love everything about it, and that love has only grown over the
last seven years, as I’ve gone behind the scenes on all the big stories, the incredible events and attractions, and I’ve seen the businesses and, of course, its people.
“We have always aimed to be a hub for Liverpool City Region and what’s important to it and, with this new app, doing what we do will be easier and better, for us and for those who look to us.”
As well as information, the free-todownload app will have calendar functions and a host of extra features, one of which is Peepl rewards.
App users will be rewarded, for example, for watching videos with tokens which they can then spend at local businesses across Liverpool City Region.
It means more value for readers and viewers, and means more money is kept within the local economy to ensure that it prospers, a factor more important than ever as it comes back from the pandemic and faces the new cost-of-living crisis.
“We do a lot to support local businesses, and the rewards and the app is a big part of that.”
Jay adds: “We just want to get people to download the app and give it a go. It’s really new, it’s really different, and we think they’ll love using it.”
We have our website, and we have our social channels, and people rely on us for keeping them up to date on what’s going on. The new app brings everything together in one place, making it easier than ever to do that.
There are a few. One of the biggest issues for businesses is flexible working. Staff who have been with you for 26 weeks can legally apply to work flexibly. As a business you have to consider this, it doesn’t mean you have to agree to it, but you have to consider it and confirm the reason why it can or can’t be accommodated. As a lot of people worked remotely during the pandemic, it’s difficult for businesses to justify why their teams can’t work from home or work more flexibly.
3. What’s the worse that can happen if I don’t have the right things in place?
Employment Tribunal claims are on the increase so you could land yourself in an Employment Tribunal. This could cost the business anything from a few hundred pounds up to the tens or hundreds of thousands of pounds, depending on the circumstances. Discrimination is still an issue in the workplace with people relying on ‘office banter’ as a reason to justify why someone said what they did or acted the way they did.
It’s so important for businesses to ensure that they have a proper Equality and Diversity Policy and not just have one to ‘tick a box’.
One of the biggest changes in April 2020 was that new starters must have their contract of employment on or before day 1. If you don’t do this, they can bring a claim in the Employment Tribunal for compensation simply because they didn’t have their contract before they started working for you.
Hi, I’m Dan from Hybrid HR, based in Liverpool. We provide businesses with advice on all aspects of HR and employment law. We work in three main ways:
1. Retainer. Clients pay us a monthly amount which is based on headcount. This provides them with e-mail and telephone advice on all aspects of HR and employment law, documents such as contracts of employment, company handbooks, letters and other employment documents they may need.
2. Ad-hoc. This could be for something as simple as you need a contract of employment preparing for a new starter or a specific policy for your business. We can do this for you and will quote based on the time we think it will take to complete this for you.
3. Project based. This is usually for more large one-off projects such as redundancy consultations where the business wants
to outsource this, or if they are looking to put an appraisal system in place. Again, we can do this and we will quote based on the time we believe it will take to complete the project.
1. Why do businesses need HR support? Whether you employ 1 or 100 members of staff, the law still applies to you which means you need to get the basics right. This means that your contracts of employment must be up-to-date and compliant. Employment Law changed in April 2020 following the introduction of the ‘Good Work Plan’ which set out what needs to be included in Contracts of Employment.
As your business grows, you will come across HR issues. Someone is sick, someone gets pregnant so how much time are they allowed and what are they paid? These are all issues that come up for growing businesses and having the right level of support is essential. You may not need a full-time HR manager, but you can outsource your HR needs for a fraction of the price.
Yes, you can. It’s your business and you’re passionate about it, but that can sometimes cloud your judgement or lead you down the wrong path. Having an extra pair of eyes and ears that are ‘on your side’ can be invaluable and can save you headaches, time and most importantly money.
A lot of issues in the workplace can be resolved by simply talking to each other.
It’s so important that staff feel that they are heard and that they have the ability to speak up when things aren’t going as well as they had hoped. It’s not just about having a grievance policy for them to use as a sounding board, it’s about making sure your staff feel respected and that they won’t be judged for raising issues in the workplace.
It’s so good to talk to each other and it can make all the difference!
Hotels were one of the first industries to realise the potential of virtual tours when the technology became commonplace a few years ago. However, there are still hotels either not using tours or not implementing them effectively.
Here are 3 simple ways to boost your hotel’s digital marketing with virtual tours:
It seems obvious, but there’s no point having wonderful virtual tours of your rooms if you then make them hard for your visitors to find. The most visited tours are those that are where you’d expect them –on the page dedicated to that room!
Virtual tours allow a much greater depth of exploration of your spaces than photography or video. Ensure you prepare spaces beforehand – present the rooms well, organise cleaning of floors, bathrooms etc. If you get it right from the
start, it’s a lot less time-consuming and expensive than having to re-do a space.
For event spaces, have virtual tours created of them in different setups. Empty, Dining setup and conference setup – the more setups you make available, the easier it is for potential hirers to visualise their event being hosted with you.
The rooms and event spaces are obvious choices for virtual tours, but visitors also like to see where they will be eating, exercising or booking a spa treatment too!
Hotels now have to meet the increasing demand for a more creative digital strategy to enhance their customer engagement. Virtual tours create a strong guest experience and can help strengthen brand loyalty, which in turn will lead to repeat bookings.
If you would like more information, email dionnethomas@hi-impact.co.uk or go to https://media.hi-impact.co.uk/
Many things have changed since the pandemic, and possibly the biggest change is to working patterns. Permanent homeworking or hybrid seem to be here to stay, which generates major changes to business travel.
Companies must think innovatively about how their people travel, and if the mobility policies they had pre-pandemic are going to work in a post-pandemic world.
Employees are commuting less, and business journeys may now involve more use of personal cars.
We know from research and experience that many privately owned cars are older, more polluting models which will fall foul of the growing number of low emission zones being created around the country. This will be of concern to companies for a number of reasons:
• Allowing employees to use their own cars and reclaim mileage allowances, known as “grey fleet,” is costly, at a time when businesses are working hard to recover.
• Businesses are increasingly being pressed to reduce CO2 emissions and staff-use of older cars may conflict with corporate targets and ambitions.
These issues are leading many corporates to take a closer look at their approach to business travel policies, and to set controls in place that ensure employee choices actively contribute to safer travel and a greener environment.
Enterprise Car Club is a key part of the travel policy of many businesses. Employees have access to modern, low emission vehicles and employers can choose how to structure the service to meet their needs. The vehicles can be based at a company’s premises for exclusive use, a dedicated
service, or employees can access Enterprise’s nationwide car club fleet. In Liverpool, we have a number of vehicles around the city and work closely with the council who use this service.
Booking and access to vehicles via an app makes the process simple and convenient and means businesses only pay when a vehicle is needed.
We know that business travel is vital in driving our recovery, while at the same time transport and travel remains under the spotlight as the government presses ahead with its decarbonisation policy.
The good news is that innovation is ensuring the number of sustainable, low and zeroemission travel options are increasing.
To find out more about the Enterprise Car Club please contact Kate Jones on kate.l.jones@ehi.com
LCR Connect JV partner ITS Technology Group marked its recent HQ move, incorporating its Network Operations Centre (NOC), to Daresbury Park by hosting an ‘Innovation Day’ opened by Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram.
ITS designs, builds, and operates full fibre networks across the UK, and is leading on the delivery of LCR Connect, a £30m, 212km full fibre network, with fellow JV partners Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA), and French civils firm NGE.
The Innovation Day was a chance for business leaders and entrepreneurs from across the City Region to learn more about the benefits of LCR Connect, as well as an opportunity to explore the recently commissioned Network Operations Centre (NOC) – the monitoring and control centre of ITS’ national full fibre networks, which ensures the security, speed, and bandwidth of its UK-wide connectivity service delivery.
Already more than 40% complete, LCR Connect is transforming the digital capabilities of the city region’s businesses by delivering reliable, gigabit-capable connectivity services, allowing them to take advantage of productivity-boosting technologies and applications.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool City Region, said: “Any successful, ambitious economy requires the modern, thriving infrastructure that will help it to keep pace in an ever-changing world. LCR Connect is a game-changer for our region, offering businesses access to some of the fastest internet speeds in the country, boosting productivity, and creating thousands of jobs and training opportunities in the process. I want our region to be known as the most digitally connected place in the country to grow a business.”
Dave Hudson, head of partnerships and alliances at JV partner ITS Technology Group, and CCO of LCR Connect, said: “It
As this article is all about the subject of overcoming business challenges, we present the perfect candidate to answer our questions, James Smethurst, Managing Director at The Social Desk.
Do you have an example where you have overcome any workplace challenges, and it has led to a successful outcome?
When you own a business, it feels like you’re constantly putting out fires. I think it’s important to acknowledge and accept the challenges whilst learning and growing
from them. As a business owner I am constantly learning how to manage my colleagues to ensure they feel fulfilled in their career, they understand the business and are happy working for the company.
Due to the current financial climate, has your business faced any challenges?
Within my business, I have multiple outgoings and with the pound taking the dive that it has, this has proved costly. As a result, we are being savvy and cautious about where we invest our money.
Have you completed any partnerships with collages or universities, to raise awareness of the different career options open to the younger generation?
We are currently taking part in a graduate scheme provided by Liverpool John Moore’s University for their talented
is really exciting to have re-located our HQ and NOC, the nerve centre of ITS’ entire national network footprint including LCR Connect, to Daresbury Park. This move underpins our investment and commitment to the Liverpool City Region and the North West. LCR Connect adds to the significant pull the region has for businesses, and for people to live and work.”
For more information about LCR Connect and what full fibre connectivity services are available in the Liverpool City Region, visit: www.lcrconnect.com
students. I believe in helping the younger generation with their career trajectory, giving them the necessary skills, knowledge and experience to be successful in their marketing career.
Has your business, benefitted directly from support offered locally or nationally?
Financially we have benefitted from the bounce back loan and local grants to help and grow and invest into our business. We have also received support from the Liverpool Growth Hub, Chambers of Commerce and the Liverpool community, who always come together in times of struggle.
Do you have any advice for a young entrepreneur?
I would always recommend gaining experience first, however for those who have sought previous work, my one bit of advice would be to be ruthless with your time. I would highly recommend reading the book “Will It Make My Boat Go Faster” by Ben Hunt Davies MBE, as it teaches us about improving your performance at work.
One of Winston Churchill’s more famous quotes, this seems particularly pertinent at the moment. After a summer of relative inactivity on the political stage, normal service has definitely not resumed as expected, with unprecedented events across Whitehall resulting in a total change of direction for the Government’s priorities for growth and investment.
As businesses wait for more details from the new Chancellor, amid warnings of “scary” spending cuts, it prompts the questions - what does the business sector feel about current events, how will they impact in the longer term and does this particular economic cloud have any silver linings?
Understanding the issues which are impacting most on our members on a day to day basis has never been more important for us, which is why we are launching a campaign to encourage members to get in touch directly, via Chamber meetings
and events and crucially through the Quarterly Economic Survey and other British Chamber surveys. More data and feedback will allow us to campaign more effectively as part of the wider British Chamber network at a national level, engaging new Ministers, as well as at a more local level.
For some businesses there are immediate challenges around energy costs, inflation, VAT and business rates as well as the ongoing problems around recruitment, retention, salary inflation and skills still topping the list. In the medium term we know how important it is for SMEs particularly, to be able to access support and funding for investment in both capital infrastructure and people to meet legislative requirements as well as the increasing pressure through procurement supply chains – whether demonstrating ESG credentials or meeting net zero targets.
The commitment to improving regional transport connectivity continues to be a broader priority which we need to keep pushing – without investment and ambition we risk impeding growth and undermining investor confidence.
We know it isn’t all doom and gloom however and your feedback will also allow us to share and celebrate your successes, as well as the flexibility and resilience of our local business community.
As part of the campaign, we would like to encourage all of you to get in touch and let us know what you would like to see from national and local decision makers to support business confidence and growth –it might just be one thing.
If you would like to be more involved in the work we do around policy and representation we would love to hear from you
michelle.cameron@liverpoolchamber.org.ukLiverpool based cash plan provider Medicash has reported its strongest ever half year results as new cash plan business continues to grow rapidly.
Building on its record-breaking new sales growth in 2021, Medicash sold over 101,000 new policies in the first six months of 2022, compared to 122,000 in the whole of 2021. This takes its total policy base to over 411,000 – the highest it has ever been in over 150 years of business
Medicash puts its success down to the ever-increasing demand from the corporate market, as more and more companies look
to put health and wellbeing benefits in place for their workforce. It also cites its continued service enhancements, unique product innovations and high levels of customer service as other factors which are helping it to stand out in the market.
Sales & Marketing Director, Paul Gambon said: “The team and I are thrilled to announce that the first six months of this year have been our strongest on record,
and it’s a trend which is currently showing no signs of slowing down.
“With rising energy prices and the costof-living crisis putting more pressure of the finances of workers across the country, we are seeing more companies look to add a cash plan to lessen the financial impact of getting essential everyday healthcare treatments for their employees. We are also seeing increased demand for our employee assistance programmes to help look after the mental wellbeing of employees, and signpost them to support on a wide range of topics from stress and work-related issues, to money management and debt.”
Medicash has experienced exceptional growth over the last year with policy numbers expanding at an ever-increasing rate. In the first six months of 2022 Medicash saw its turnover increase by £2.75 million compared to the same period in 2021.
Commenting on the financial position of Medicash, Finance & IT Director, Andy Roberts said: “As an organisation that reinvests its profits back into its products, as well as supporting a range of health and wellbeing related charities, it’s been amazing to see how the business has grown, so that we cover more people than we ever have before, at the same time as expanding our products to include a range of new benefits and market innovations.
“Over the next two years, Medicash are looking to further invest in its backend office and IT Support functions to ensure that we can continue to grow whilst maintaining our high levels of customer service. We are currently on course to break the half million policyholder mark in early 2023, but with demand for
corporate health plans showing no signs of abating, all of the team at Medicash are working hard to ensure we remain at the top of our field.”
Medicash puts a large part of its success down to the high levels of customer service it offers, in addition to the continuous development of its products. So far in 2022, Medicash has been named Health Cash Plan Provider of the Year 2022 at both The Health & Protection Awards
Sustainable Energy First, sefirst.com, are market leaders in energy and carbon management and trading, assured environmental compliance, and sustainability solutions to our suite of members to make tomorrow’s world better for everyone.
end account management service which unlocking sustainability opportunities, making Sustainable Energy First your sustainable partner of choice.
and the Workplace Savings and Benefits Awards and Best Cash Plan Provider 2022 at the Corporate Adviser Awards.
In addition, Medicash is shortlisted in a number of other industry awards including the Cover Excellence Awards and the Merseyside Independent Business Awards. Medicash also retains its 5-star excellent rating on Trustpilot and has just been awarded the top Investor in Customers Gold award for the tenth year in a row.
Revenue Recovery Team: Utility bills can be a source of complexity and unnecessary overspend. Sustainable Energy First perform an independent billing health check to recover monies lost due to incorrect billing on electricity, gas, telecommunications and water. They negotiate with your utility suppliers to recover any costs from overpayments and correct any false or inaccurate information to help prevent future billing errors. Their team has recovered over £45 million in lost revenue for clients in a ten-year period.
Energy is one of the biggest operational costs for businesses. The uncertain nature of the energy market and its everchanging landscape means energy prices fluctuate daily – but they can be managed and aligned.
Sustainable Energy First maximise the performance of your energy portfolio, providing a full energy and utility end-to-
Bureau Team: Peace of mind utility billing management and accuracy with over 100 checks through in house, industry-leading software, validate, optimise, report, and forecast; giving you peace of mind that your utility bills are true bills, and you’re reporting on the right energy consumption use. Sustainable Energy First process over 1 million utility bills annually, and accurate forecast (some to 0.03-0.2%).
Energy and Carbon Trading Team: A range of renewable energy and carbon trading solutions from energy consortiums to a fully bespoke risk management strategy, they’ve got the right solution for your business. Last year, the team managed the procurement of enough energy to power all 27 million homes in the UK for a day.
Sustainability Projects: Sustainable Energy First turn raw data into enriched data-backed insights to sustainable and tangible opportunities to reduce carbon, optimise energy consumption and manage future energy costs.
Siteworks Team: Sustainable Energy First project manage all your gas, electric and water metering needs, ensuring that all parties involved are instructed and coordinated with the aim to providing a high level of service.
For more information visit sefirst.com
As part of ongoing growth plans, Liverpool-based Alliance Fund Managers has undergone an exciting brand refresh and will now be known as River Capital.
The rebrand is accompanied by a relocation to new premises, with the business moving from its previous Exchange Court offices to modern facilities at the Plaza in Liverpool’s commercial district.
The new name and office move is complemented by a new logo, social presence, and websitewww.rivercapitaluk.com
The changes reflect the business’s desire to build on its impressive achievements over the past 20 years. Having been established in 2002 as a subsidiary of the Merseyside Special Investment Fund (MSIF), the company has made a significant contribution to the regional economy, supporting over 2,000 businesses, investing £163m and creating or safeguarding 14,000 jobs in the Liverpool City Region (LCR).
To date the majority of the funding has been provided through MSIF. Building on its success in managing these funds, it has and increasingly continues to secure funds from other clients including British Business Bank, the LCR Combined Authority and other private sector investors.
The new brand will support this objective, repositioning the business in the market to support its ongoing evolution, providing the fund management business with its own identity distinguished from MSIF.
River Capital expects to make further major announcements soon regarding new and revised availability of funds to support regional SMEs.
River Capital CEO Mark Borzomato said: “I’m genuinely excited for the future of River Capital. The repositioning provides
a framework for us to expand the funds we manage and better meet the needs of businesses.
Our core market, SMEs, remain the backbone of the UK economy, accounting for over 60% of employment and 50% of the turnover of the UK private sector. Access to finance for these 5.5 million businesses is key to their continuing growth, particularly at a time when small business owners and entrepreneurs are facing unprecedented challenges.
Alternative sources of capital, creative approaches to investment and proactive support such as that provided by River Capital are key to their ongoing success. The team at River Capital has a track record of success and a huge depth of experience and knowledge.
MSIF Chairman John O’Brien said: “Over the past 20 years the close relationship between MSIF and River Capital has proved advantageous for the LCR with more than 2,000 businesses receiving funding and support.
We’re proud to see River Capital develop its own identity as the next stage of its development to enable them to provide further support to businesses.
Hospitals nationally have faced immense pressures over the past 2.5 years, and throughout all of this, the priority of Liverpool University Hospitals Charity has been to raise funds to support and improve the lives and wellbeing of their patients and their incredibly hardworking staff.
be private where families and loved ones can be given time and compassionate care by our dedicated teams.
• £10,000 will cover the contents for 3 SWAN Suites.
Fiona Murphy MBE, our Director of Nursing here at LUHFT said:
As the charity looks forward, the wellbeing of their staff and patients will continue to be a priority. The team will also continue to invest funds raised into innovation and into what the trust needs to ensure world class equipment, services, environments, and a happy workforce to treat and save more lives.
Liverpool University Hospitals Charity are excited to be working with Fiona Murphy MBE, LUHFT Director of Nursing to implement the Swan Model into Liverpool University Hospitals Foundation Trust to ensure that they provide excellent, individualised end of life and bereavement care for every patient and every family, every time. The Swan Model will allow LUHFT to be entirely patient and family
focused, meeting the unique needs of each individual and their loved ones.
The ethos is about empowering teams and giving them permission to care and to break the rules that don’t exist.
The LUHFT Charity fundraising team are hoping to raise £50,000 to enable the SWAN team to begin supporting over 2,000 patients as soon as possible.
• £15,000 will pay for a memory box for 2,000 patients.
• £30,000 will enable the SWAN team to have their very first SWAN Suite. Peaceful and beautifully decorated SWAN Suites will be set up at each hospital site. They must
“The SWAN model will vastly improve the experience for the patient and their loved ones at an extremely difficult time. I want to ensure that nothing is too much trouble; I want them to feel that there is compassion and understanding from everybody – from the cleaner to the consultant. I want information to be given freely and communicated to families and our patients in a tailored way.”
“Most importantly, our SWAN model will allow us to support our patients and their families and allow them to be involved in decisions being made regarding their care and their wishes…Each and every donation will help us to transform our end of life care; to make a positive difference to our most vulnerable patients and their families, and this will be incredible.”
Can you help? To make a donation or to speak to Aimee Clare, Fundraising Development Manager about how your organisation might be able to help, please email aimee.clare@liverpoolft.nhs.uk
Join colleagues, members and friends at our Chamber events for fantastic networking opportunities and an insight into what’s happening in the Liverpool City Region…
Informal networking and coffee morning, usually on the first Friday of every month.
Monthly evening events to network with the hospitality, legal, retail, charity and young professional sectors.
High-level panel events analysing the latest economic survey results along with prevalent topics within the City Region.
Monthly sessions focused on building relationships between members with Schools, Charities, and the Property-Construction sector.
Quarterly sessions partnered with the Liverpool City Council with businesses and schools looking to work with one another.
Held throughout the year covering a range of topics from within the international arena, including the International Trade Club.
Workshops designed to provide new businesses with knowledge, connections, and insights to help their business grow.
Invitation to annual major events such as Aintree Races, Liverpool International Tennis Tournament and our Annual Awards, all at a discounted rate.
0151 227
Liverpool Chamber are passionate about creating pathways for third sector organisations to engage with businesses in the region, enjoying a mutually beneficial relationship with our own charity partner, Liverpool University Hospitals Charity.
• Age Concern Liverpool and Sefton
• All Saints Multi Academy Trust
• Alternative Futures Group
• Cancer Research UK
• Career Connect
• City Hearts
• Claire House
• Clatterbridge Cancer Charity
• Cradle Charity
• Emmaus Merseyside
• Everton in the Community
• Expect Limited
• Freshfields Animal Rescue
• Granby Community Mental Health Group-Mary Seacole House
• Leadership Through Sport and Business
• Liverpool Parish Church (Our Lady & St Nicholas)
• Liverpool Philharmonic
• Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine
• Mary’s Meals
• Merseyside Adventure Sailing Trust
To allow our members to explore the benefits that a corporate partnership could bring to their business, the charity, and wider community, Liverpool Chamber launched the Charity-Business Network, in partnership with the Liverpool BID Company, on 13 October.
Liverpool Chamber CEO Paul Cherpeau said: “We know that there are many Chamber members who have strong ESG initiatives in place and would love to support local charities, and we hope that the Charity Business Network will develop over time to provide the opportunity to explore charity partners that align with their company’s vision, mission, and values.”
Liverpool BID CEO Bill Addy said: “Liverpool’s charitable sector is such a vital part of the city’s ecosystem. The way business and charity works together has to be mutually beneficial, understanding that we learn from each other and understand that our skills and experiences can make the stronger
whole. In Liverpool we talk a lot about a mixed economy, and one of those factors is a range of governance and organisation in a way that people feel different aspects of our economy are being represented. It’s such a privilege to be able to spend our time together and learn from each other.”
The next meeting of the CharityBusiness Network will be announced in due course via Liverpool Chamber’s usual communications channels.
• National Museums Liverpool
• Natural Breaks Ltd
• North West Cancer Research (NWCR)
• Nugent
• NW RFCA
• Resume Foundation - Aintree Hub
• Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid
• South Liverpool Homes
• Team Oasis
• The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation
• Wirral Hospice St John’s
• Woodlands Hospice
• Workers Educational Association
Andy Cooper, as operations director for Liverpool City Region-based fencing and barrier manufacturer, Blok ‘N’ Mesh, has a network of depots and distribution centres under his remit across the UK and Ireland. Having just celebrated his first year with the company, he takes five minutes to talk about how the company has begun the process of upskilling.
“It was fair to say that when I joined, investment in some of our older depots was long overdue and so we’re in the process of a more than £100,000 investment in upgrading these sites with new staff areas, improved IT, capital equipment etc.” Andy said.
“The plans needed to go beyond just upgrading our infrastructure though”
he added “It became obvious as our business continues to grow that it was vital to look at ways of investing in our most important asset, our talented team. Many colleagues have been with the company for some time; five, ten years or more, and, whilst they bring years of practical experience, some haven’t had the opportunity to expand their qualifications since they left school or further education.”
“We spoke to several educational organisations to discuss the best options for our company and teamed up with Liverpool-based unicourse.org as a flexible, distance learning option which offered a range of courses and the flexibility for colleagues to study at their own pace.”
“Starting with this academic year we have a pilot programme with eight of our operational managers spread out across our UK Network, sponsoring their Level 5 diploma in Leadership and Management. Accredited by the ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management), this course covers six areas; working with people, managing yourself and personal skills, providing direction, facilitating innovation and change, achieving results, and using resources.”
Andy finished by looking forward, “We are excited to see the results of this initial phase and to hear first-hand how the learning process is impacting on our colleague’s day-to-day challenges. We’re already working on ideas for what the next phase of talent development might look like… there is more to come!”
It became obvious as our business continues to grow that it was vital to look at ways of investing in our most important asset, our talented team.
The iconic Martins Bank Building in Liverpool is being restored to bring established companies and startups together through a hybrid mix of work, social and restaurant space. With limited availability, we are now welcoming companies of all sizes to explore their future at Martins.
Model shown is NX 450h+. Official NX 450h+ fuel consumption figures in mpg (1/100km): combined 256.8 (1.1) to 313.8 (0.9). Combined CO 2 (g/km) 25 to 21.* *Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Figures obtained using a combination of battery power and fuel. Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption, CO 2 and/or equivalent all-electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results. Fuel consumption, CO 2 produced and equivalent all-electric range can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). All mpg and CO 2 figures quoted are full WLTP figures. More information can be found by visiting: www.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp.
