Business 2 July 2014 by BGSD-cs

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BIG INTERVIEW

WHY YOU NEED TO LOVE NYC Airport boss calls for help from businesses to bring back direct New York flights – p2&7

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Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Manufacturing

Blinds ambition Bespoke home design specialist toasts expansion Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

BLINDS company that has been in Bedminster for 26 years has expanded its office by a third as part of ambitious growth plans. Home shading specialist The Appeal Group has a head office and manufacturing facilities at the 15,000 sq ft site in Vale Lane. It supplies bespoke conservatory blinds, window shutters, awnings and insect screens, employing 45 people at HQ as well as a team of 35 home design consultants and installers across the UK. The firm has seen sales increase by 16 per cent in the first half of 2014 compared to the same period last year and has expanded its product range with the launch of two new collections, including a new Bugshield range of DIY insect screens, which will be sold online and made in the new part of its premises. Two VIPs opened the new facilities, Bristol South’s Labour MP Dame Dawn Primarolo and the firm’s longest-serving employee, Kelly Anthony from Hartcliffe. Kelly has worked for the company in the accounts team for 23 years. Chief executive Michael Madigan said: “Today is a significant milestone for The Appeal Group and the whole of our team. “A large part of our success can be attributed to the culture of our business and the skills, loyalty and commitment of our employees, many of whom have worked for The Appeal Group for more than a decade.” Michael said the recession had had a “dramatic impact” on the home improvement market, but he said the business had “held firm” during these challenging trading years and was now growing strongly in 2014. He said: “During the difficult times, we set out to retain our core team

● Dame Dawn Primarolo opens the new offices of the Appeal Group in Bedminster, Bristol. The firm employs 45 people at the site making blinds, awnings and shades which means that we now have skilled workforce capacity to use for expansion. “We have great confidence in the new products and we estimate that we will recruit five to 10 new members of staff over the next 12 months.” He said the firm would continue to diversify into new product areas, such as the insect screens, to keep growing. “Add this to the improvements we are seeing in consumer confidence and the housing market, and it felt the right time to invest in the further development of our Bedminster fa-

cilities,” said Michael. “With sales on the increase, new collections being launched and the opening of our new premises, we are proud to be putting Bristol on the map when it comes to high-end home improvements.” Dame Dawn, the local MP, said: “The Appeal Group is flying the flag for South Bristol in a highly competitive sector, where quality and customer service are key to success. “This expansion is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of everyone who works for Appeal and I’m delighted to help celebrate an exciting new chapter for The Appeal Group.”

“ A large part of our success can be attributed to the culture of our business and the skills, loyalty and commitment of our employees.” Michael Madigan

Skills

Links help more uni graduates find work ● A UNIVERITY’S efforts to work with local companies to develop graduates with the rights skills for business appear to be paying off. UWE Bristol has seen the number of graduates in work reach a new high, according to figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency. The university has surpassed its own previous record with only 4.5 per cent of students still looking for a job within six months of graduation, an improvement from 5.2 per cent the previous year. This is almost half the national university average of eight per cent. The previous year UWE Bristol had the sixth best employment record among English universities, but the comparison tables have not yet been released for this year. UWE has been working hard to build business relationships, including its sponsorship of this year’s Bristol Post Business Awards. It work with Business West on a scheme called Graduate Talent West, an online recruitment service hosted by the Chamber of Commerce website that provides its business members an easy route to recruiting students and graduates. Maggie Westgarth, head of careers at UWE Bristol, said, “We have weathered the storm remarkably well and now that the economy is looking more buoyant, especially in this region, our students are reaping rewards through our links with thousands of employers, particularly with small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). “Our funded internship programme has generated more than 1,500 opportunities for UWE students to work in regional businesses since 2010 and this year we are proud to celebrate Bristol’s European Green Capital Award by launching a green intern scheme for businesses that want to develop green policies and practice. “However it’s not all about working with existing businesses, it’s also about nurturing new ones so we are also investing in our student entrepreneurs and providing support for them to develop their business ideas.”

Aviation

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Direct flights to New York could be on the way back to airport DIRECT flights from Bristol International Airport to New York could return within two years – but it businesses need to show there is demand first. Flights from Bristol to Newark first started with Continental Airlines back in 2005, before the airport was dealt a major blow when the carrier announced it was pulling out of the West Country in autumn of 2010. Currently, the only way to fly from Bristol to New York is via connecting flights to the Dutch capital Amsterdam or Dublin in Ireland. Now the airport’s chief executive Robert Sinclair, right, is working on re-securing a link between Bristol and New York, as well as to a major long-haul destination in the Middle East. Mr Sinclair said the move reflected returning good fortunes to his busi-

ness, following a 10 per cent fall in passenger numbers in 2009. He said: “We are working hard to re-secure the service from Bristol to New York and from there you will be able to travel to a multitude of North American connections. “Hopefully within a year or two we will see a return of a direct service. “I think that reflects that we have come full service in the business cycle. The economy is much stronger and the pound is much stronger against the US dollar, which is one of the issues we had before. “Businesses are travelling and so we are very, very keen to secure long-haul routes. “We are also in regular dialogue

with the Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates, Etihad, Qatar and Turkish Airlines and I can see, in the fullness of the next two or three years, that we will hopefully have a connection to a Middle Eastern hub as well.” Bristol Airport recorded its busiest ever May last month, with more than 608,000 passengers travelling through the terminal. This surpassed the previous record set back in 2008 and represented a 4.1 per cent increase on the same month last year. The airport wants the support of businesses in the West of England to help secure a direct flight to the USA once more. Mr Sinclair said: “Although good connecting options can be accessed

● Bristol Airport enjoyed its busiest ever May last month via frequent services to European hub airports, a direct flight would bring further benefits to the region in terms of international profile, in bound tourism and time and cost savings to business. “To help build the business case we are gather information on companies

with US connections and if you or your organisation would benefit then we would like you to contact us.” ● Would you like to see direct flights from Bristol to New York return? If so, email your comments to marketing@bristolairport.com. SEE BIG INTERVIEW PAGE 7

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Catering

Technology

Street food pioneer delivering to hungry office workers ● ONE of the pioneers behind the street food movement in Bristol has launched a range of meal pots that she is delivering to office workers in the city. Navina Bartlett, pictured, ran the Coconut Chilli stall within the Bristol’s StrEAT Food Collective, which took part in a number of night street food markets last year. She said: “Street food is a passion of mine and I loved the vibe at the events, but vendors have a short season in which to trade and I need to generate custom every week of the year. I have spent the last few months developing a range of dishes that can be bought chilled and heated at work or home.” The ready meals are made in small batches by hand in Yate, and include a spicy lamb and

black pepper keema meatballs in spicy coconut gravy as well as creamy shrimp and coconut milk korma with crunchy cashews. The recipes are inspired by ingredients from the Coorg region, above Bangalore, India. Navina said: “The Coorg region is where I spent many a summer on my aunt’s coffee estate. The hillsides house acres of coffee bushes and there are a huge variety of plants growing in amongst the coffee. “Ingredients include coconuts, bamboo, pumpkin, cardamom, oranges and chillies.” Companies including Rockpool and E3 at Paintworks, Big Bang Post Production in Clifton and Vouchercloud and Bristol Natural History Consortium have tried the lunches.

● The Bristol Science Park in Emersons Green

Government urged to give support to city’s ‘key clusters’ Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

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RISTOL is today hailed for its fast growing, high-tech sector. The city is highlighted in a report by an influential think-tank, which recommends government should invest in key clusters as the best way to stimulate economic growth. Professor Joe McGeehan, chair of inward investment agency Invest Bristol & Bath and special adviser to Toshiba, welcomed the report by the Centre for Cities and McKinsey and Company. He said: “It is this diversity of connected sectors, skilled workforce, world leading academic research and brilliant quality of life that make Bristol and Bath so distinctive and attractive. “Industries ranging from high tech to creative and digital media, and from robotics to aerospace, work collaboratively to drive innovation. Major global players are increasingly setting up operations in the Bristol and Bath region as they seek to benefit from this offering as part of their plan for business growth.” The report – Industrial Revolutions – Unlocking the UK’s Thriving Cluster Sectors – names 31 clusters, which together make up 20 per cent of the UK’s economic output, despite only being home to eight per cent of businesses. The region’s aerospace industry was picked out as a key cluster of global importance, with firms including Airbus, GKN, Rolls Royce and BAE all having bases in the Greater Bristol area. This in turns leads to smaller suppliers and consultants building up around the bigger firms, creating a pool of talent. The South West tourism industry was the third local cluster highlighted. But it was the creative and technology cluster around Bristol and Bath that came in for special praise. It highlights specialist hubs within the city such as Bristol and Bath Science Park, the Watershed and the Engine Shed. And notes the “melting pot” of companies in the city from big players including Aardman Animations, HP and Toshiba to entrepreneurs building businesses around robotics, 3D

printing and other cutting edge technology. Bristol has a rich cluster of creative and technology companies across fields including manufacturing, electronics and animation. David Sproxton, below, executive chairman and co-founder of Aardman, welcomed the findings. He said: “It is excellent to see a report focusing on the importance of industrial clusters as powerhouses for the economy, and highlighting Bristol and Bath for its undoubted strengths across the high tech, creative and digital-media space. “We definitely need to raise the profile of UK clusters so they can continue to compete on the global stage.” Bonnie Dean, below, chief executive at the science park, said the biggest strength was how companies and organisations worked together. She said: “It is the collaborative approach of Bristol and Bath’s technologists, business leaders and academics, combined with its rich network of interlinked, complementary sectors that make the tech cluster here particularly successful. The region has excelled in creating a lively ecosystem of enterprise, where knowledge, expertise and ideas are shared, innovative thinking is stimulated and business success is accelerated.” The report’s authors say clusters of expertise have a disproportionately big impact on the economy. Therefore they recommend government invests in supporting them, to target its resources most efficiently. That argument could be seen as backing up the West of England Local Enterprise Agency’s decision to focus on key sectors in its recent bid to Government for money to invest in infrastructure projects. Lord Sainsbury, who commissioned the report, said: “Clusters are an essential feature of an innovative and dynamic economy, and the Government needs to support them and remove the barriers to their growth,” Centre for Cities chief executive Alexandra Jones said: “We know that relatively small, but targeted investments in areas such as skills and infrastructure can make a significant difference in the UK’s economic output. Improving local business environments and increasing the flexibility of our cities to respond to their specific challenges will not only support existing clusters to reach their potential, but encourage the emergence of new clusters and high-growth firms in all sectors across the UK.”

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Employment law

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Technology

Flexible working rules mean tough calls ● EMPLOYEES can request flexible working from this week and that will mean bosses have some tough decisions to make, according to an employment law expert. Kevin Jones, below, employment law specialist at law Clarke Willmott, said the regulation was likely to cause a new wave of requests for flexible working. He said: “When making decisions employers will need to carefully weigh up each request.” The new rules mean all employees can request flexible working once they have 26 weeks of service. Previously only those with children under 17 and carers could do so. It does not mean, however, that employers have to agree to the requests. Rather they have to consider them in a “reasonable manner” but can reject them. Kevin, based at the law firm’s in Bath Street, said employers should consider how flexible working could be good for them. He said: “It is important to consider the long-term benefits that flexible working can bring. Get it wrong and businesses could end up with a demotivated and divided workforce.”

● The Just Eat executive team. The London-based business is creating a technology hub at the Engine Shed in Bristol

Hungry for growth Web takeaway firm starts city tech hub Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

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N online takeaway service is opening a technology hub in Bristol to help it stay ahead of the game is an increasingly competitive sector. Just Eat runs the biggest online marketplace for delivering takeaway food, operating in 13 countries. Although based in London, it has chosen Bristol to create a tech hub employing 15 people initially, with the goal of increasing that to 30 by the end of next year. The team will focus on innovation and improving service for millions of customers and the 36,000 takeaways it works with. Group chief technology officer Carlos Morgado said: “Over the past 12 months Just Eat’s technology team has been working hard to deliver everything from new mobile apps to new electronic point of sale technology for our restaurant partners. “The pool of excellent engineering talent in Bristol, Bath and the South West

provides us with an ideal base to build on this success and drive the next wave of invention and innovation for our customers around the world.” Chief executive Graham Corfield added: “The technical team is brimming with ideas to support restaurants’ growth and success while also ensuring customers love their takeaway experience. “I’m excited that our new Bristol office will play a key role in making this happen while attracting the best tech talent on offer.” Professor Joe McGeehan, chairman of inward investment organisation Invest Bristol and Bath, said the move allows the firm to tap

“ The pool of excellent talent in Bristol, Bath and the South West provides us with an ideal base to drive the next wave of innovation.” Graham Corfield

into the region’s talent without paying London costs. He said: “The Bristol region is well-known for being home to an exceptionally rich pool of talent and offers an excellent quality of life. “There exists a growing appetite among companies to set up in locations outside London where they can avoid the high costs of the capital but still attract and retain the right staff, and Bristol and Bath offers all this and more.” He added the move was “fantastic news” for Bristol and further recognition of its status as a “vibrant and dynamic hub of innovation” which competes at an international level. The new centre will be based at the Engine Shed in Temple Meads. That means it will sit alongside businesses in the University of Bristol SETsquared incubation centre, as well as WebStart Bristol and the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership. The restaurant food delivery sector is becoming more competitive online, with rivals including Meals.co.uk, which was founded by a UWE Bristol PhD student.

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Technology

Future vision Printed planes and holograms will replace screens Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

IRBUS will be “printing” aeroplanes rather than assembling them a few decades from now. That was just one of a raft of rapid-fire predictions made by futurologist David A Smith in a talk to 150 business leaders and owners at the M shed. David gave a 90-minute talk at the Bristol Harbourside venue on how businesses must adapt or die as the pace of change accelerates and we hurtle into a new age of technology. He said: ● 3D printing would revolutionise the logistics industry, with people simply collecting their orders from printers at their local convenience store ● We were entering the “post-email era” where “more productive” social tools would replace it as the method of communication ● Mobile phones would be replaced by wearable technology or even our bodies such as keyboards on our arms. In time, we would be able to think our way around the web ● Holograms would replace screens and soon we would be able to touch them too, for example to feel the fabric of clothes we buy online. Many of these ideas are already being developed around the world, including here in Bristol where university researchers are working on tangible and dynamic holograms. David said 3D printing so far was largely in plastics but would become possible in glass, metal and concrete. “Airbus will be 3D printing planes by 2050,” he said. “They will simply mix different materials together in a printer and create an incredible finished product.” Using similar technology, he said people would be able to order personalised trainers made to fit them and collect them from a corner shop the same day. And wearable sensors would mean that someone needing public transport will alert the bus – or a driverless car – to wait for them when they walk out of the office.

Engineering

City move pays off for aviation consultants ● THE decision of an engineering consultancy firm to open a Bristol office to be closer to the aviation industry is paying off. Aertec Solutions was been appointed as a referenced supplier for manufacturing engineering services to Filton-based giant Airbus. Aertec will be a tier one supplier. it will provide engineering services for the manufacturing process, tooling and plant automation systems in all Airbus plants in Spain, France, Germany and the United Kingdom. Working with partner Ausy it will work on major Airbus programmes including the A350, which is launching in an extra wide model later this year. Aertec Solutions managing director Antonio Gómez-Guillamón said: “Our selection as an engineering supplier for Airbus will provide us with a direct point of entry into the commercial aviation market, especially in the main Airbus commercial programmes. “It will also consolidate the position of the company for this type of services and will offer new business and collaboration opportunities in other European countries.” The firm has recently worked with Airbus on the A400M military transport plane project, for which the wings are made in Filton.

Made in UK

Firms showcase wares at UK awards night ● David A Smith has warned Bristol businesses must adapt or die as the pace of change accelerates

“ I know companies where people sit at desks nine to five with laptops in front of them. Why? If you don’t trust your staff, fire them!” David A Smith David, who is chief executive of Global Futures and Foresight, said every business must consider how such changes would affect them, and how they could capitalise on the opportunities.

He said often businesses changed their technology, but were much slower to change their methods. “I know companies where people sit at desks nine to five with laptops in front of them,” he said. “Why? If you don’t trust your staff, fire them,” he said. “If you do trust them, let them work anywhere. They’ll be more productive if they know they have your trust.” He said social media would continue to grow in influence. “The real opportunity is when you change the business model and move from a transactional attitude to an engagement model,” said David. “It’s about engaging with people who want to be engaged and allowing them to chose the sort of engagement

they want with your organisation.” And he said cities such as Bristol which aspired to lead the way in smart technology could cash in by exporting their ideas and expertise. He said: “What’s changing in the world? Everything! “We have got a world of opportunity and smart, skilled and organised people here who can go out there and grow their business. “The world’s economy is going to triple in the next four decades as emerging market economies wield increasing power - the UK needs to target these high-growth markets now.”

● See next week’s Business for more coverage from the fair, and tips on how to #GetExporting.

● A NUMBER of local businesses will be showcasing their wares at the Made in the UK Awards later this month. Sandford-based Thatchers Cider, Marshfield Bakery and Wrington-based Butcombe Brewery will taking part of the event, being staged in Liverpool to coincide with the International Festival of Business. They will go head to head with businesses from the rest of the UK to see decide whether they represent what is great about products and services manufactured in the UK. Thatchers managing director Martin Thatcher said: “Somerset cider is in a very good place at the moment, and this message is beginning to spread to overseas markets too.”

Bristol Connected

Roof-top destination for networking

networking opportunity. Assistant editor (business) Gavin Thompson said: “As we’ll be well into the summer events season, it will be interesting to hear from John Hirst about how Bristol is performing as a tourist destination and why that’s important for the local economy.

“But with Bristol Connected, the most important part is the people who turn up. “It’s about giving you a place to meet and make connections, with other businesses and professionals and with us at the Bristol Post.” The Bristol Connected series was launched earlier this year and previous events at BDO, Thrings and Clifton Zoo, the latter evening hosted by Clifton Asset Management, have been great successes. Gavin added: “Tickets for this free event tend to go very quickly so please sign up today by searching Bristol Connected at Eventbrite - or simply scanning the QR code on this page, which should take you straight through to the link.”

● Guests during the Bristol Connected event at Bristol Zoo Pavillion

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BRISTOL’S entrepreneurs, professionals and business men and women will be on top of the city for the next Bristol Connected. The networking event, run by the Bristol Post Business team, will be hosted by the Hilton Garden City hotel. from – weather permitting – its roof terrace in Temple Way. From that lofty vantage point, we’ll take a look at the tourism and leisure industry. John Hirst, chief executive of Destination Bristol will give a short talk on how tourism benefits local businesses and what is being done to bring in more visitors. And there will be a five-minute focus on a local business. But the main event will be the

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Workplace health

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Education

Contracts a shot in the arm for business ● A BUSINESS started to help improve health in the workplace is proving its own fitness after winning two new contracts. Work Doctors was set up as an occupational health business by a group of local GPs earlier this year. It has been appointed by cheese company Lye Cross Farm in Redhill and city centre-based IOP Publishing to provide expert help and advice on employee health needs. It will offer the 300 staff at IOP Publishing a medical referral and consultation service and an annual flu jab. Peter Alivis, from Lye Cross, said: “Our partnership with Work Doctors ensures that we have access to independent, expert health advice to ensure our employees are fit and healthy to meet the rigorous requirements of a modern food business. “We have been impressed with their understanding of the very specific needs of our business and their speed in responding to our needs.” Dr Mark O’Connor, pictured above, managing director at Work Doctors, which is based in Long Ashton, said: “Access to up-to-date occupational health advice from a team that understands the pressures facing businesses in today’s fast paced economic environment can be a real contributor to success. “It’s great to see so many businesses in the South West addressing their occupational health needs and we are delighted to have been appointed to help.” Sign up here for business news direct to your inbox every day

● Ruth Wadsworth with her son Luke, 19 months, during the Routes to Reading: Little Readers' Day Out, At-Bristol

Pic: Artur Lesniak RAL20140628A-014_C

Start them early New chapter as book firm targets under-threes Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

HEN Ruth Wadsworth’s son Luke was a few months old, she started talking with her friends from her NCT group about the best age to start reading to their children. It started a lively discussion. Ruth’s dad Fred Grainger – Luke’s granddad – runs school books business Education Umbrella and took an interest in the conversations. Education Umbrella, based in Exeter House, in the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone, is a third-party seller of books to nurseries and

schools, up to A-Level. But it didn’t sell into the under-threes market. So together they came up with an idea. Ruth’s NCT parenting group formed a book club. They were given books to read to their children and in exchange agreed to be filmed so the progress could be recorded. The result is Routes to Reading, a new arm of the business consisting of a website which sells books aimed at under-threes direct to parents. But it is also a support resource, with the videos and other advice online. Ruth, 33, joined the family business and is running Routes to Reading. She said they wanted to give parents somewhere to go for appropriate books for younger children. She said: “The thing that really

differentiates us is that we have categorised by the type of book, so for example if your son likes tractors we have a section on transportation. “We also have experts who have gone through to help suggest ideal ages for our books, so you can put in your child’s age and choose from the suggested books.” There is a also a book club, which Ruth is hoping will become a popular gift, in which you buy a child membership for three, six or 12 months and they get two books each month chosen for their age. Ruth said the journey had been an eye-opener for her. “At six or seven months when children are putting everything in their mouth and throwing stuff, Luke saw books as something he could hold and chew on,” sisa Ruth.

“But now, at 19 months, he chooses his book at bedtime and he wants to go to his books box in the morning. “It’s very calming too. He’s really engaged in reading and it calms him down if he’s having a crazy 15 minutes.” Routes to Reading was launched on Saturday with a reading day at At-Bristol science museum in the Harbourside. Luke was born with a heart defect and spent the first three weeks of his life in the Bristol Children’s Hospital, so the family have become regular fundraisers for the hospital, which led to them buying Steam Dog Gromit from last year’s charity auction and the statue made a special appearance on the day. To find out more go to routestoreading.co.uk.

Enterprise

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Incubator’s the best in Europe

● Engine Shed director Nick Sturge

A BUSINESS incubator based partly in Bristol has been ranked the best in Europe and second best in the world. SETsquared was created for businesses spun out of the University of Bristol as well as Bath, Exeter, Southampton and Surrey universities. It is now home to a number of early stage and developing tech companies, with its Bristol base at the Engine Shed in Temple Meads. Engine Shed director Nick Sturge said the award was recognition of great work being done here in the city. He said: “We have always endeav-

oured to operate in a global context. “Most of the tech start-ups we work with are born global and this award confirms that we can provide the best incubation environment for local start-ups that will become global businesses.” The ranking was given by the University Business Incubator (UBI) Index Dhruv Bhatli, co-founder and director of research at index, said: “SETsquared did really well on our Global Benchmark and beat numerous business incubators based at top universities. “They are one of the best incubation places in the world and cer-

tainly the best in Europe, as evidenced from their performance on our global benchmark. “It is an outstanding business incubator that provides exceptional quality to its client companies and produces growth companies and high economic impact.” Bristol SETsquared has collected a few awards of its own recently, including best heritage project in the South West Built Environment Awards for the £1.7 million transformation of Brunel’s Engine Shed. And Nick won the Public Sector Director of the Year accolade at the 2014 Institute of Directors (IoD) South West awards last month.

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

The Big Interview

AIRPORT ON AN UPWARD CURVE After surviving the airline ‘bloodbath’ caused by the recession, business is taking off again at Birstol Airport. Rupert Janisch talks to chief executive Robert Sinclair

Vital statistics Name: Robert Sinclair Age: 47 Place of birth: Auckland, New Zealand School: Auckland Grammar School First job: Lawyer Hero or inspiration: Captain Cook – a brilliant navigator, sailor, explorer and leader of his crew, and he discovered New Zealand!

● Robert Sinclair is looking forward to a strong future for Bristol Airport from 2008 and you look at them now you would see that the destinations have remained very stable. “Despite the difficulties we have been remarkably consistent through the course of the recession. And we’ve invested too – we’ve improved capacity, better piers, aircraft stands, car parking, security and immigration – we’ve touched every major bit and we’re continuing to do that. We had the view that the recession would end, the sun would rise again and we wanted to be well-positioned.” Planning approval which went through in 2011 allows Bristol scope to spend £150 million on doubling the size of the new terminal, while remaining within the geographical footprint which it currently fills, and raising passenger numbers per annum from six million currently up to 10 million. So while the debate over airport expansion in London rumbles on – a third runway at Heathrow or alternative options aren’t likely to actually happen until 2030 – Bristol’s passenger capacity could have doubled by then. Mr Sinclair said: “At peak, in summer, Gatwick is full and Heathrow is full. It’s not just congestion on the ground either – the railways and motorways are full if you’re coming from Bristol and it’s even worse if you live in Devon or Cornwall. We don’t have those issues here – it’s very easy to get to and once you’re here, getting on to the aircraft is efficient.” The airport generally runs pretty smoothly, even though incidents like the small electrical fire at the terminal in early June can knock the whole operation out of joint for several hours. Mr Sinclair offered assurances that something like that won’t happen again. And he pointed out that other events beyond the airport’s control – French air traffic

“ We’d like to see a dual lane highway to the airport from central Bristol in the fullness of time and I’d like to see a direct connection to the M5 as well. Robert Sinclair Chief executive Bristol Airport control strikes last month, for example – cause more disruption. He also suggested that other issues which cause passenger grievance, such as the £2 fare for luggage trolleys and the loss of free drop-off parking facilities, contribute to the airport’s ability to offer affordable flights. He said: “It’s not true that we’re the only airport to charge – it’s quite common. Some people aren’t happy that we charge for dropping off at car parks. I accept that but I would say that the prices people pay from the airport are really low and our commercial revenue goes towards subsidising the low costs that the passengers have to pay. In my view, the passenger is the winner.” And what of the campaigners, those who object to the expansion of the airport on environmental grounds? Mr Sinclair said: “There were some genuine concerns from our local community about what the expansion of the airport would mean in terms of things like transport, surface access, congestion on the roads, noise and air quality. I believe North Somerset Council did a very good job of looking at those issues in detail and working with us quite positively to produce a

package of mitigation measures. “We now have a local community fund of around £100,000 per annum and there are a lot of little things we have done, concessions on parking and transport, for example, to bring us closer to the local community. I think the level of trust is at an all-time high. And when you compare the numbers of passengers we handle with the numbers of people who live within our key decibel contours, we are about the most noise-efficient airport in the UK. It’s because we have rural areas on either side. That’s why I think North Somerset Council did a good job. They weighed up the environmental impacts against the economic ones. We provide multiple daily services to the major hubs, practically every major city in Europe, often for less than it takes to get to London. That’s what Bristol needs. It needs to be connected.” The expansion of Bristol Airport is estimated to contribute between £1.9 and £2 billion to the local economy over the next 10 years, through inbound tourism, time and cost savings to business, and inbound em-

My working day Wake up: 6.15am Breakfast: Cereal and fruit Start work: 8.30am-9am Typical working day: Usually back-to-back meetings – some at the airport, and quite a few offsite. Lots of emails and plenty of reading to keep up to date with every aspect of the very exciting aviation industry. I have a great team around me, so I am a bit of a jack-of-all-trades, helping out where I can on a wide range of issues, working with all sorts of different people.

ployment. The operation will be enhanced by the South Bristol Link road, with construction due to begin at the end of this year. “It’s been on the cards for decades,” said Mr Sinclair. “As part of our planning approval we have come forward to part fund that road to the tune of £4 million. We are also contributing to the Ashton Vale to Temple Meads connection as well. We feel very strongly that improving the surface access to Bristol Airport is key to our business and we need to help out on that around the region generally. “It’s not good, as we know. We want it to improve. We’d like to see a dual lane highway to the airport from central Bristol in the fullness of time and I’d like to see a direct connection to the M5 as well. It’s a long way off, there are various schemes that have been proposed by I don’t see that happening any time soon. “The two schemes together – the South Bristol Link and the Ashton Vale scheme – will make the Bristol Flyer bus service work even better, a straight shot into central Bristol by October 2016.”

Go home: Around 6pm Do you take work home/attend evening functions? Evenings are a chance to catch up on emails and reading, as well as attending one or two functions a week

My downtime My perfect weekend: Walking the dogs in the countryside, watching our two boys play sport, and dinner at a great Somerset pub! Favourite book: I enjoy books on history and, not surprisingly, travel! Hobbies: Keeping fit swimming, running and cycling, as well as a bit of sailing and skiing when I can.

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RISTOL Airport is an important feature of the city’s business landscape. A major employer in its own right, it also acts as a catalyst for many other businesses which provide services operating in it, or in the supply chain for the aerospace companies which operate there. It’s also a transport hub, bringing in tourists who benefit many businesses in the city, as well as businessmen and women, not only those from outside looking to make deals in the city region but also our own business people who may be looking to trade abroad. Steering the ship is Robert Sinclair, the airport’s CEO, who has been in post since late 2008, the time which will go down in history as the one in which the world’s economy caught a major cold. “It was a bloodbath, across the UK and Europe,” he said. “The airport had never seen such a decline. In 2009 it was the worst year in commercial aviation history. Passenger numbers fell by 10 per cent, we lost Excel which went into liquidation and was one of our big charter companies, there were reductions in capacity and withdrawals of routes.” Since then though, Bristol has fared well, capitalising on the suffering of other smaller airports such as Exeter, Plymouth and Cardiff and seeing passenger numbers growing by two to three per cent per annum to the extent they are now back to where they were before the downturn. Mr Sinclair said: “What you’ve seen over the last five years is a far more disciplined approach by airlines in consolidating a lot of their activities to major airports, of which we are one. The smaller airlines, some of which have gone out of business, been purchased or consolidated into other groups, have effectively gone away. “Since 2009 we’ve been back on the growth line and this year will be our busiest ever. We’re the only airport in the UK’s top 10 to have achieved growth every year since 2009. “The secret to success is having a really good portfolio of airlines. We have a mix of low-cost, charter and full service airlines and our approach is quite simply to get the leading airlines in each group. It means we spread our risk, and all our airlines are financially stable and able to withstand a reduction in demand then start building their portfolio up again.” Despite the positivity, the portfolio of routes available from Bristol has diminished slightly. Salzburg in Austria is one location no longer served from Bristol and a more high-profile casualty is New York, which was arguably the flagship destination a few years ago but is now only served by indirect flights via Dublin or Amsterdam. However, long-haul flights to New York and the Middle East are on the agenda for the next two or three years and Mr Sinclair insists that the offering from Bristol International is still competitive. He said: “If you were to map it out, if you took our routes

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Focus on start-ups | Sponsored by THEME SPONSOR’S NAME HERE.

Property Matters

CONCERN OVER CITY’S SHORTAGE As the economy grows, so does demand for industrial space. But with little or nothing built for several years, will there be enough supply? Gavin Thompson reports

UPPLY and demand is one of the most fundamental building blocks for business. Yet when it comes to building space in which those businesses can work, developers often struggle to get the balance right. Human behaviour plays a part, along with cashflow. We see the economy take a dive, and everyone stops building. No one wants empty, costly properties on their hands. But then the economy picks up. Construction is a slow beast that takes time to limber up and gather speed. Which leaves a gap between supply and demand that can hamper the prospects of growth and recovery. And that is where Bristol finds itself now. While we celebrate every tech company that invests in the city, and heap praise on the trendy inner

“ In Bristol it is becoming more and more evident that there is a lack of supply for industrial and logistics premises across all size ranges.” James Morgan city office spaces they love so much, such as the Engine Shed and Temple Studios. The truth – the ugly truth – is that we need more big clunky industrial space, and soon. James Morgan, below, head of the dustrial stock reducing dramaticindustrial agency department at ally,” said James. CBRE Bristol, said: “In Bristol it is “Demand for large industrial becoming more and more evidpremises tends to come from reent that there is a lack of tailers and third party logistsupply for industrial and ics operators as well as logistics premises, and parcel delivery companthis is reflected across ies, all of which have reall size ranges.” quirements for the He said this was apBristol area. parent in the rise in “There is a noticeable demand for industrial lack of supply of larger space since the turn of industrial buildings in the year with a number Bristol, which means ocof sites let. cupiers will struggle to “This coupled with the fact identify suitable premises.” there has been no significant specThis could cost the local economy ulative development in the last seven as organisations simply look elseB015-1411 Bruton Knowles Bristolwhere. Post Commercial AW 2.pdf years has led to supply levels of inBristol Advert maybe270x40mm well placed

with good links around the country via the M4 and M5, but it’s not the only option. And it is not just big sites in demand. Colliers International’s Danielle Hatton said: “Smaller units are still available in Avonmouth – we are seeing considerable activity in the smaller size bracket alongside the major movements in large sheds. “We are also finding that tenants are demanding better quality space these days – prompting more owners and landlords to take the plunge and refurbish their remaining secondary stock.” Andy Ridler, right, of another property agency Alder King, put the rise 06/05/2014 17:24 in1 demand down to renewed econom-

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0117 287 2101

ic confidence in not just logistics but also manufacturing. He said Bristol benefited from an established multi-sector, multi-skilled workforce and two leading universities providing world-leading research facilities. He said half year take up of industrial space was around 800,000 square feet, a number he said was “depressed”. “The lack of good quality, immediately available supply is holding back take up,” said Andy. “Demand is sustainable as it comes from a wide variety of sectors but is

enquiries@brutonknowles.co.uk brutonknowles.co.uk

particularly strong from added value and technology-based manufacturers as well as from the construction, logistics and e-retailing fulfilment sectors.” Andy said the demand was broad across a range of sizes. “What’s noticeable is that demand is not restricted to one particular size range, eg the big sheds,” he said. “Demand is coming from across the size spectrum, from small owner managers looking for around 1,000-5,000 sq ft of space, to those in the aerospace supply chain and distrib-

Achieve more from your property

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Expert eye

In association with

Paul Matthews Partner Bruton Knowles 0117 287 2101 paul.matthews@ brutonknowles.co.uk

OF INDUSTRIAL SPACE

Creative industries are transforming our city

Property of the Week

Speculative build addresses demand

0117 287 2101 brutonknowles.co.uk

Case study ● IF Bristol is to meet the demand for industrial space, it needs developers to start building speculatively. There is little sign of this yet, but one scheme that has got off the ground is in Warmley. Axten Properties and Blue Marble Properties have started building five starter business units totalling 15,000 sq ft at Caxton Business Park. One of the units is already under offer by a manufacturing firm. The four remaining ones will range from 2,900-11,720 sq ft (279 – 1,115 sq m). The scheme, one of the first speculative industrial developments in the city for at least five years, will be available from this autumn and will help address strong demand for quality production and distribution space. Emma Smith, surveyor at Alder King in Bristol, said: “The return of speculative development in the industrial market is a clear indicator that the economic tide has turned. “With very few new buildings coming on stream in the last five years or so, occupiers have little choice when looking for new accommodation. “This development will be one of the first new schemes capable of meeting the resurgence in demand for quality modern industrial space.” The site, formerly home to Lawson Marden Packaging, was bought and cleared for redevelopment four years ago. Last year, Axten/Blue Marble Properties secured a pre-sale deal on part of the 2.4 acre site to WBC Automotive for the development of a 20,000 sq ft (1,858 sq m) modern workshop and office facility to facilitate further expansion and create new jobs.

For Sale - Development Land The Old Mill, Congresbury, Bristol BS49 5HZ

• Development site of 0.69 acres (0.969 ha) • Consent for ofﬁces • Up to 878.6 sq m (9,458 sq ft) plus 27 car spaces Contact: paul.williams@brutonknowles.co.uk BK code: 2583

“ The faster than expected recovery has placed a major strain on supply of quality accommodation in the greater London, Birmingham and Manchester regions. This shifts attention to Avonmouth and Severnside.”

utors looking to drive further effispace there is. This is the legacy of the ciencies in their distribution last development cycle when some of networks with space of around Bristol’s land supply was lost to other 10,000-25,000 sq ft. There has also been uses, eg offices, and not replaced.” a particular return of mid-range reThe good news is there is land quirements in the 25,000-75,000 sq ft available where new industrial sites size range.” can be built, particularly in AvonHe said supply stood at 2.5 million mouth as well as possibly around the sq ft of available space – the lowest for developments in Filton and Emer10 years. sons Green. And a “significant proportion” of And the supply problem is not that is poor quality. unique to Bristol. “Demand far outstrips the amount Tim Davies, head of Colliers Inof good quality available buildings,” ter national’s Bristol office, said soarsaid Andy. “There is a two-tier maring demand for quality ket, with a large gap between the good accommodation around London had and poorer quality space. promoted more businesses to look “Prospective occupiers are surfurther down the M4. Davies B015-1411 Bruton Knowles Bristol Post Advert 270x40mm AW 2.pdf ●1 Tim 06/05/2014 prised at how little available quality “TheCommercial faster than expected recovery

Tim Davies, head of Colliers International’s Bristol office

17:24

has placed a major strain on supply of quality accommodation in the greater London, Birmingham and Manchester regions,” he said. “This shifts attention to Avonmouth and Severnside, which given its location beside the M4/M5 interchange, could be as handy for firms needing Midlands connections as it is for businesses in the capital.” Farm Foods recently announced it is to open a 175,000 sq ft distribution centre on Central Park – alongside the Chep pallet premises. Other major occupiers include Morrisons, Tesco, Asda and the Co-op. The opportunities are clear. The question is can we meet the demand fast enough?

0117 287 2101

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enquiries@brutonknowles.co.uk brutonknowles.co.uk

RISTOL’S creative quarters are playing an increasingly significant role in the city’s urban regeneration – launching a brave new world from what was virtual wilderness. Large areas of the inner city – which would have been considered no-go zones just thirty or forty years ago – are now the must have location for every self-respecting media, digital or creative company which has ever headed West. Although frequently accused of derailing meaningful development, the city authorities seem to have finally recognised the possibilities of thriving creative corners and are starting to open up extensive stretches of Bristol’s riverside scene abandoned since the last war. We have seen the same trends in Gloucester and Plymouth, where the Quays and Millbay areas are being transformed into must-have locations rather than best avoided backwaters. Bristol’s Paintworks is perhaps the obvious example of what can be achieved when new ideas collide with old buildings to create vibrant, youthful and economically effective workplaces. The Paintworks estate has helped regenerate 12 acres of derelict industrial buildings along the banks of the River Avon, transfor ming mudbanked wastelands into some of the most productive square footage in the city. A little further in to the southern suburbs, the Bottle Yard studio at the former Constellation Wines plant in Hengrove is owned by Bristol City Council and provided the setting for the popular Trollied sitcom and more recently the BBC One drama Frankie. Lights, camera and plenty of action in a building which once housed the Harvey’s Bristol Cream sherry bottling line. In fact, the success of the Bottle Yard flies in the face of accepted creative regeneration theory as it lies further away from the epicentre – where questions of cost, quality and centrality create the market opportunities the creative hub thrives upon. It is these generally derelict or secondary locations which have seen the most striking transformations, where creative juices have reanimated entire neighbourhoods left behind by ancient industries. According to first quarter figures the creative sector is playing an increasingly important role steering Bristol’s vibrant city centre offices sector back towards activity levels not seen since 2008. This astonishing recovery of the urban landscape is well underway – maybe it’s time to turn our attention to the thousands of well-educated young people with just the right skills to make the most of this infinitely brighter future.

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

OUT AND ABOUT WITH BRISTOL’S Gregg Latchams Business Club

Digital Buffet at the Arnolofini

ELEGATES from businesses around Bristol enjoyed an informative talk on pensions, tax and financial planning at a seminar organised by the Gregg Latchams Business Club. Andrew Brown, the head of the Queen Square-based law firm’s GL Chartered Financial Planners office, spoke to the room full of business owners at the monthly breakfast event held at the M shed on the city’s Harbourside. In an entertaining and easy-to-understand talk, Mr Brown discussed the changes to pension fund legislation announced in the Budget in March and how these changes will impact the annuity markets, businesses and their employees, as well as looking forward to what announcements businesses can expect next April. The next Gregg Latchams Business Club event takes place on Tuesday September 30 and is themed on the legal implications for family-run businesses. For more information or to book your place email Kayleigh Groves at kayleigh.groves@gre gglatchams.com.

● Andrew Brown, GL Chartered Financial Planners

● Mark Brodermann, Seymour Hicks

● Nicola Payne of Noisy Little Monkey talks at the Digital Buffet event at Pictures: Sammy Payne the Arnolfini in Bristol

● Michael Parrott, Gregg Latchams

● Karen Wyatt, Latcham Direct

● Robert Clark, R C Brown Investment Management

● Marcus Robinson, Mortgage Style

E precise, test everything and beware of grumpy journalists – those were some of the nuggets of advice Bristol businesses took from a digital event. Around 100 people gathered at the Arnolofini for Digital Buffet, organised by search engine optimisation and social media marketing agency Noisy Little Monkey. Speakers included Craig Pugsley of Microsoft Mix Radio, who told the audience how they could cheaply test apps and websites with a small number of users, a chair, laptop and about £100 worth of kit. The Post’s own assistant editor Gavin Thompson gave tips on getting your story in the news, online and in print, reminding people to keep it relevant and quick when dealing with busy and sometimes grumpy journalists. And Jon Payne, technical director of Aardman-based Noisy Little Monkey, explained how using exactly the same wording to describe your business helped Google to recognise it over imposters.

After the event, Jon said: “We set up Noisy Little Monkey to help people make their online marketing better. Digital Buffet gives us the opportunity to find expert speakers who can give actionable tips and tricks to a room full of people who work in marketing so they can make their online marketing better. “There are events in London and Brighton along these lines but nothing that’s particularly for Bristol – which has an amazing heritage in advertising and a burgeoning creative tech industry. Bristol was clearly crying out for this sort of event – it was a sell out and the room was buzzing. “We were fortunate enough to get a range of Bristol-based speakers, some of whom talk all over the world to give brilliant talks at this, the first Digital Buffet.” He added the event would not be a one-off. “I’m really looking forward to the next one – I’ve already got a couple of world class speakers teed up,” said Jon.

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● Bristol Post assistant editor (business) Gavin Thompson gives a talk

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

BUSINESS COMMUNITY

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Business diary Bristol SetSquared Innovation Showcase: Networking and pitching competition for Bristol SetSquared businesses at the Engine Shed, Wednesday, July 2 from 6pm.

Bristol branch of Institute of Directors hosted an interactive event with TasteTech

Mazars Summer Drinks Party: Held at the Merchants’ Hall, Thursday, July 3, 6-8.30pm.

S part of its mission to raise the profile of successful entrepreneurs in Bristol, the Bristol branch of the Institute of Directors hosted an interactive event with TasteTech, a leading SME run by award-winning entrepreneur Janis Sinton at At-Bristol. IoD members and guests heard from representatives of TasteTech’s Research and Development team led by Danny Kite and were introduced to the world of controlled release food flavourings and ingredients with practical sensory sessions. TasteTech specialises in the bakery and confectionery industries supplying some of the world’s most recognised brands and most recently created the flavourings for the first ever multi-sensory firework display that was a huge success during London’s New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Metcalfes Solicitor summer party: Early evening get together for clients and friends with champagne, canapes and music at 46 Queen Square, from 5.30pm on Thursday, July 3. Ready for business workshop: Introductory workshops for anyone who is exploring the concept of self-employment or starting a business at Leigh Court, Abbots Leigh, BS8 3RA, 10am-4pm, Tuesday, July 8. Contact readyforbusiness @businesswest.co.uk. Keeping social media honest conference: Event run by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) South West at Bristol Aquarium, from 3.30pm-8pm on July 8 focusing on keeping social media activity honest, legal and effective. More details at http://www.cim.co.uk/64374.

● Participants sampling the different smells that make up the scent of a Pictures: Simon Chapman strawberry

Solar Seminar: Renewable experts from Michelmores solicitors and Francis Clark accountants teame up with PV panel supplier SunGift Solar to explain the business case for solar installation, including a Feed-in-Tariff update, funding, tax implications, property law and planning. At the M shed from 5.30pm on Wednesday, July 9. Inquiries by email to sarah.laughton@michelmores.com. RICS South West Commercial Property Question Time: Join the leading body for land property and construction professionals in a lively summit style debate chaired by Johnny Dunford, RICS global commercial property director, to discuss how the profession can seize opportunities and help address major challenges facing the sector. From 2pm-5pm, July 10 at Bristol Zoo.

● Above and below, visitors tasting sweets at the event; right and below centre, TasteTech staff give a demonstration

Compliance Within the Staffing Industry: Outsource UK’s Thought Leadership Series starts with a free breakfast event featuring two employment experts considering how impending changes to employment law will affect compliance within organisations. Held at Hotel Du Vin on Tuesday July 15 from 8.45am. To register, email events@outsource-uk.co.uk.

● Above, from left, Lorna Clarke, from Above and Beyond, Inge Dowden, from Inge Dowden Coaching, and Jessica Pillow, from Pillow May; left, award-winning entrepreneur Janis Sinton of TasteTech

Email your business events to gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk. Events are sometimes cancelled without us being notified so please check with organisers before travelling.

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● Rebecca Tregarthen, chair of the Bristol branch of the IoD, sampling the different smells that make up the scent of a strawberry

Boost! your business: Boost! Is a new series of events that aims to provide owner-managers of growing local businesses with fresh, practical know-how that will help them to get the most out of their business. The first one takes place at the Unilit Club, Bristol from 5:30-7:30pm on July 15 and will look at how to access funds for growth. Register to attend for free at boost-bristol.eventbrite.co.uk

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

The back page

Your digest of the week in business

In numbers Inflation (CPI)

1.5 2.4 -1.5 0.5 3.99

Inflation (RPI) Places ● Education solutions firm Tribal is on the move, taking a 15,000 sq ft space at Kings Orchard office building in the floating harbour, above. The move is the second biggest city centre deal of the year so far, with Alder King Compton Rose and GVA all involved. The relocation from Portland Square gives Tribal bigger accommodation in the heart of Bristol’s business district. It intends to extend its range of products and services to a growing international client base. Catherine Collis of Alder King’s office agency team said: “In recent years, Bristol’s office market has been characterised by a high proportion of smaller deals. Tribal’s move to Kings Orchard and other on-going transactions in the market point to increased occupier demand and improving confidence.” ● The team at Bradley Stoke’s Willow Brook shopping centre are beaming after winning a green industry award for the second year running. Last year the centre won the waste management prize at the Sceptre Awards and this year took the energy management gong after cutting carbon output by 80 tonnes. Manager Andy Wynn said: “Willow Brook sits at the very heart of the community in Bradley Stoke and we’re sure our shoppers will be just as proud of this achievement as we are.” Staff at managing agent Colliers International were equally chuffed.

Reports ● A new report has found that independent retailers could improve their sales by working together. The report, from retail experts Conlumino, finds by collaborating on things such as marketing campaigns, loyalty schemes and events, small traders could boost

Weekly earnings

Base interest rate ● From left, Stacy Green, of Focus Assured, Willow Brook’s facilities manager Mark Wathern and manager Andy Wynn with comedian Simon Evans their sales by an average of up to £31,204 each annually. Mike Abrahams, managing director of Wild Oats Natural Foods in Clifton, agrees. He says: “We know some of the other local business owners well and though there is a degree of overlap or competition on our high street, it’s in all our interests to bring more footfall into the area. “From this point of view we’re all in it together. In fact on an even more local level, we teamed up to create the Blackboy Village Group, and have produced a map to give to all of our customers showing where the local shops are and what they sell.” ● And they might need that extra boost, as the Business Confidence Monitor from the ICAEW and Grant Thornton suggests a slight drop in the good mood of late. Companies in the South West saw a slowdown in sales and turnover, with external factors such as the severe storms at the beginning of the year impacting on infrastructure and customer accessibility. Exports however, were up 3.6 per cent over the past year. Jon Blake, ICAEW regional director, said: “It is clear the devastating storms are having a lingering impact on the economy in the South West, but we must not

despair. Exports are up, employment is up, and wages are now keeping pace with inflation.”

People ● A Bristol University graduate has just fulfilled the dream of many a tech start-up, and sold his business to Google. Mike Hart graduated from Bristol with a BSc (Hons) in physics in 1998, completed an MSc in communication systems and signal processing in 1999 and went on to work in the Fujitsu Labs on advanced wireless technology, often involving the university. Google has just snapped up Alpental Technologies, based in Seattle, which Mike co-founded in 2012. Andrew Nix, professor of wireless communication systems, said: “Mike, like many of our former PhD students, has gone on to do great things on the international stage. Our students combine technical insight with inspiring innovation and entrepreneurship.” ● Specialist insurance broker, Brunel Professional Risks, which is based in Thomas Lane, Bristol, has appointed Chris Ladkin as

non-executive chairman. The move is part of Brunel’s long-term growth strategy which aims to build the business to become one of the UK’s largest independent brokers. In addition to his role as a chairman, Chris Ladkin will help grow the business in the commercial and corporate markets. Chris is a big hitter in the sector and has played leading roles at Hargreaves Lansdown, SBJ and Bluefin. ● John Davies, below, senior corporate partner at commercial law firm Thrings, has been named Client Partner of the Year by The Lawyer. The accolade, presented at the Lawyer Awards in London, marks Davies’ contribution to the 57-year relationship between Thrings and South West fuel distribution business, Watson Petroleum Ltd. In March, legal and strategic advice provided by John and associate solicitor Simon Hore led to the completion of Watson Petroleum’s $191million (£117million) sale to World Fuel Services Corporation, one of the largest global fuel logistics organisations in the world.

The op-ed column

£30 billion giveaway? I’ll believe it when I see it!

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ABOUR announced its big plan to win back businesses at the weekend – a promise to spend £30 billion on infrastructure and skills outside London. But, and here’s the key bit, the spending power will be devolved to local enterprise partnerships. As an idea, it is to be applauded. Giving city regions such as Bristol the power to decide how they can best grow is right. And using local enterprise partnerships as the mechanism makes sense. They already exist so there’s no need for the wasted expense and time in creating something new. And local businesses are involved as stakeholders. They need to be more

Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

accountable (the West of England LEP holds its board meetings behind closed doors, for example) but that’s a column for another day. It’s hardly a new idea. The present Government has invited all the LEPs to bid for a pot of around £2 billion to spend locally. Here in the Bristol city region, our LEP put together a strong economic plan highlighting areas where public investment could unlock millions in private sector money, and create

thousands of jobs in the process. The LEP chose five core sectors – areas in which it felt investment would generate the greatest return and in which the Bristol region is already a big player. Among the raft of ideas is building the next phase of both the Bristol and Bath Science Park and the Engine Shed. Both hubs of creative businesses that are full to capacity with private businesses creating new technology and new jobs. The strategic economic plan is a well-put-together investment prospectus. Rather than desperately crying for funds, the LEP chose to make a sound investment pitch, telling the Government Bristol is the best place

to get “bang for their buck” (or value for money if you want to be a little less American). There are rumblings, however, that Bristol – and other regions – will be disappointed and that perhaps the money promised to be devolved from central coffers to local control may not be as much as promised. And that’s why Ed Miliband’s comments at the weekend will be welcomed with only polite applause from businesses and city regions such as Bristol. For years oppositions have talked of devolving decisions and money into local hands. But once the power is in their hands, they change their minds. So Ed. we’ll wait and see.

% % %

Ave mortgage rate % Corporation tax % Main rate

Small profits rate – below £300,000

Business current accounts

1.01% State Bank £10,000 deposit of India 0.25% £1 deposit

Business savings accounts 1.85% Secure Trust £1,000 deposit Bank Shawbrook Bank

1.40% £5,000 deposit

Source:

Petrol prices .50p

131 136 140 74

Unleaded

.25p Diesel

.14p

Super unleaded

.90p LPG

Source: PetrolPrices.com