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WALK THE TALK
REACH FOR THE STARS
PROPERTY MATTERS
Women’s networking group gets into its stride – pages 10&11
Bionic hand pioneers head to US after contest success – page 4
Sector faces professional skills shortage – pages 8&9
Business bristolpost.co.uk
www.
03 SEP
2014
BUSINESS RATES
MAKING A STAND FOR TAX REFORM We campaign to overhaul the property tax that is holding back Bristol’s economic growth – p2&3 EPB-E01-S3
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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Finance
South West businesses ready to invest ● THE majority of small and medium-sized enterprises in the region expect to invest in their businesses this quarter, according to new research. Bibby Financial Services surveyed 1,000 businesses in the South West with a turnover of up to £25 million, with 58 per cent saying they will invest in the three months up to October. Nearly a third plan to invest in technology and equipment (30 per cent), just over one in five (22 per cent) said they will recruit new staff and 21 per cent said they would invest in employee training. South West managing director Sharon Wiltshire said: “These results are positive as they show owners and management teams investing in the long-term future of their businesses. “The increase in those investing in new premises is a clear indication of these plans and it’s likely that the effects will be felt later in the year, which could spell more positive news in terms of GDP as we lead-up to 2015.” One in ten SMEs (10 per cent) plan to invest in new premises and more will focus on product design than in the second quarter of the year (20 per cent to 21 per cent). When asked about expectations for the months ahead, 63 per cent said they expect to achieve sales growth and only five per cent foresee a decline in orders in the three months leading up to October. Sharon said: “If businesses have the financial means to grow, then undoubtedly they will need to take on staff, move to larger premises and buy equipment and machinery, which all have a positive multiplier effect on the economy.”
Aerospace
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Leading industry sees surge in demand ● THE aerospace industry – one of Bristol’s key sectors – is enjoying a surge in demand, according to new figures. Data released by aerospace trade organisation ADS Group highlights growth in demand for new aircraft and engines in July, resulting in the largest ever month-on-month increase in the order book. The boost, which brings the total backlog to 12,000 aircraft and 21,000 engines, is estimated to be worth between £135 billion and £155 billion to the UK over the next nine years. These orders reflect long-term industry growth projections which forecast a demand for more than 29,000 commercial airliners between now and 2032 as airlines look to grow or improve their fleets to cater to rising passenger numbers. Paul Everitt, ADS chief executive said orders were always likely to rise around the Farnborough Airshow, the biggest UK trade event for the sector, but this growth was more than expected. He said: “We expected to see a peak in orders during the Farnborough Airshow. However, the volume of orders placed throughout July was unprecedented; adding almost 650 aircraft and 1,100 engines to an already robust order book.” The trend is good news for Bristol-based firms such as Airbus and GKN, but also the smaller companies in the local supply chain.
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Business rates
JOIN OUR FIGHT TO REFORM Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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HE Bristol Post today calls for a major overhaul of the tax system that has both hindered growth and been an unfair burden on many small and medium sized businesses. We are launching our Real Rates Reform campaign, urging all the major political parties to promise a complete overhaul of business rates before the next general election, and we will keep the pressure on whoever comes to power in May to deliver on that promise. So far the current Government has made vague promises of a review but with no meat on the bone while Labour has indicated it would freeze rates for small businesses and hand control on spending to local bodies. Business rates are a complicated property tax based on a valuation of a business premises which is only carried out every five years, meaning it does not respond to changes in economic conditions. The last revaluation was postponed, meaning since 2008 businesses have been paying rates tied to pre-recession property values, in order to keep Treasury coffers full. But the result has been a deterrent to growth as firms have been reluctant to expand due to the disproportionately high rates cost. The system is complex with a range of reliefs and discounts available but difficult to fathom for a typical busy
● Below, leading figures Rebecca Tregarthen, John Hirst and James Durie all want to see reform of the business rates to encourage faster growth of firms in Bristol (above)
small or medium sized business owner. In addition, although business rates are collected by local councils, the money goes straight to London. Therefore the Post is calling for: ● A simpler system that small businesses can understand. ● A end to the property-based deterrent to growth and expansion.
● And greater local control over how the income from rates or their replacement are spent. Our call is supported by leading figures in the business community. James Durie, executive director of the Bristol Chamber & Initiative at Business West, said: “There is no question that the business rates system is broken.
“This is a tax that hits companies of all sizes long before they a make a profit, and acts as a drag on business growth and investment. “Firms across the UK have been crying out for reform of this tax for years, but so far their pleas have been ignored. In an age increasingly dominated by online business, the current system of business rates looks
The opinion column
‘Quash business rates for locally owned firms’
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OR those running local businesses, business rates are one of the many taxes and pieces of red tape that slow down growth and limit how many people can be employed. For those who are not at the frontline of businesses they are little known. Business rates are similar to the council tax most residents pay on their homes. Residential council tax payers benefit from bin collection, street cleaning, amenities like parks and recreation areas, street lighting, local schools and various other front-line benefits that residents of the city benefit from. The cost ranges from zero (for students, those on benefits and various other groups) to a maximum of £3,257.08 per year which
is the rate those living in Clifton’s finest mansions will be paying. Business rates are very different. Businesses get very little back for their rates – bins are not collected, streets on industrial estates are not cleaned, there is minimal lighting in industrial and commercial areas, and nothing is provided for the benefit and welfare of employees. Businesses have to pay for their own bin collection, grass cutting and staff welfare. Even recycling has a cost to the business. But the real scandal is the cost of business rates. Generally speaking a Bristol business will pay council rates amounting to 45 per cent of their “rateable value” – this is the cost of rent-based on a valuation typically made at the top of the property
market in around 2007. As commercial rents in the city are currently lower than before the recession, this percentage actually works out to be a lot higher. Imagine if people renting residential property had to pay 45 per cent on top of their rent to the council – and got nothing in return. There would be public outrage; people would leave the city and many would simply refuse to pay. Many families, especially could not afford to pay. As both a residential and commercial landlord I see the consequences of this first-hand. My residential tenants are paying around eight per cent of the cost of their rent in council rates and get a lot for it. Whereas my commercial tenants are paying an additional 50 per cent of the cost of
rent to the council. They get almost nothing for this. The powers of the council to extract business rates of local companies are substantial. They can quickly obtain court orders that result in repossession of company assets which can instantly put committed and hardworking employers out of work. Consider this in a different way – a large organisation can demand regular payments from local businesses for no other reason than because they exist in their region. The business gets nothing in return for these payments. Any requests for payment comes with overt threats. In nearly all cases the business has no grounds to appeal and no one to go to. Should the business not pay the
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
THIS UNFAIR RATES SYSTEM WHAT ARE BUSINESS RATES? ● BUSINESS rates are collected by local councils but the money goes to the Treasury. They are paid by occupiers of business premises. If the property is empty, the owner or leaseholder will still pay the tax after the first three months (six months for warehouses and industrial sites). Rates are based on the rateable value of a property, this is the figure the property could have been let for on a set date, the current date being April 1 2008. It should be re-done every five years, but this is now overdue. You can appeal this valuation if
you think it is wrong. The valuation is raised in line with retail price inflation. The rateable value, set by the Valuation Office Agency, is used to work out your rates bill. Your local council works out your bill by applying a government-set multiplier (currently 48.2p in the pound) to the rateable value, then subtracting any relief you are eligible for, such as small business relief. So if your property’s rateable value is £26,000, then 26,000 x 0.482 = 12.532. So your rates are £12,532. Unless you are entitled to any relief.
WHAT’S WRONG WITH RATES? ● BUSINESS rates are linked to RPI, which is seen as an unpredictable measure of inflation. ● Property values are out of date and don’t follow the market. When the economy crashed, rates didn’t fall with it making them a heavy burden on business in hard times. ● They discourage expansion and
investment. Rates discourage firms from taking on more space because their tax bill goes up even if profits don’t. ● They discourage retailers from taking the step onto the high street and penalise bricks-and-mortar against online competition. The result is empty shops and offices.
WHAT SHOULD CHANGE? ● Greater local control over how rates are spent so they can be used to encourage more investment and job creation. This happens to a small degree around enterprise zones, such as Temple Quarter, and is being used to help fund the Bristol
creakingly outdated. “We also think now is the time to see greater local control of how business rates are spent – to encourage the growth ambitions of the West of England, allow longer term investment in local infrastructure and give us better accountability of how our local councils spend this form of revenue.
Arena, but should become the norm. ● A simpler system that small businesses can understand. ● Break the deterrent to expansion. One way this could be done is by replacing rates with a local sales tax.
“This is a time for wholesale review and fundamental reform, not for tinkering around the edges.” John Hirst, chief executive of Destination Bristol which promotes the city to tourists and shoppers, said business rates were a barrier to the retail recovery. He said many landlords had adopted more flexible and supportive
RATE RELIEF ● THERE are numerous discounts for business rates, which can be confusing. Below are some of the main ones. ● Small business rate relief Currently 100 per cent for businesses which only use one property and the rateable value is less than £6,000, which decreases on a sliding scale to zero for properties with a rateable vale of £12,000. ● Rural rate relief For those in an area with a population below 3,000, you get 50-100 per cent off your rates. ● Enterprise zone relief For businesses starting or relocating to the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone, up to 100 per cent relief for five years. ● Charitable rate relief Charities and amateur community sports clubs can apply for relief of up to 80 per cent if a property is used for charitable purposes.
SIGN THE PLEDGE ● We are calling for business leaders, owners and entrepreneurs to sign-up to our call for business rates reform. Simply scan this QR code or go to www.bristolpost.co.uk/ business.
approaches to rent and the length of leases in recent times, which had been positive for the retail sector. But bills for business rates kept rising and could be the difference between success and failure. John said: “For many years now we have listened to retailers, both existing and potential occupiers complaining furiously about business
rates. There is a real lack of clarity amongst a large percentage of retailers about business rates. “Often the amount payable is significant and can make the difference between success and failure. “The figure is quite rigid and not open to negotiation and the retailers have to make provision to pay the full amount. We are making progress and are climbing out of the very deep recession. I would like to see the recovery happen quicker and for us to find a position which is sustainable and will give us a platform to build for the future. “Some flexibility in business rates, even if only temporary would be a huge boost. Empty stores simply do not help anyone.” Rebecca Tregarthen, chairman of the Bristol Institute of Directors, criticised the decision to put off the last property revaluation and called for wholesale change. She said: “The postponement of revaluation means many business are now paying the wrong rate. The IoD has called for rates to be frozen until the [rescheduled] revaluation in 2017 to ease the pressure. “I am also in favour of examining the relationship between central and local control – it is too easy and not helpful for a local authority to say to a struggling business they can’t help because the rates are fixed centrally. “There needs to be some flexibility to support enterprise and growth at a local level, as long as local powers are not used to create revenue but encourage new activity.” She added: “The empty rates exemption worked when the market was in decline but now it is back on the up, it is in danger of encouraging too many landlords to let their premises lie empty, which discourages inward investment and detracts from the city. I’d be in favour of capping rates holidays, within reason, to get the market moving again.”
● We want to hear from local businesses about what should happen to business rates and we will be reporting on this issue through the coming weeks. Get in touch by emailing gavin.thompson@ b-nm.co.uk or tweeting with the hashtag #realratesreform.
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Shortlist
Firms in running for enterprise award ● TWO Bristol firms are in the running for an enterprise award for graduates with a top prize of £50,000. Research and development company Omnidynamics, founded by robotics pioneers at the University of the West of England who began the business in their placement year has been shortlisted in the Lloyds Bank Enterprise Awards. The firm created Strooder, a machine which has brought down the cost of 3D printing, and has already sold 300 units. Also in the running is Nine Six Three Ltd, a creative design business specialising in identity design. The firm also owns Something Good, a physical store selling stationary, prints magazines and books, which is soon to be rebranded as Papersmiths. The regional winners will be chosen in a heat at the University of Exeter next week, which go on to compete in a national final in Birmingham on October 15. David Beaumont, pictured, South West director of SME Banking at Lloyds, said: “Three years into the competition, we’re still hugely impressed with the calibre of young businesses entering. The South West’s shortlist just goes to show that entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well amongst students and graduates. We know the challenges that new business owners can face when turning their passions into enterprises, and it’s a pleasure to recognise the rising stars who have overcome these difficulties.” Sign up here for business news direct to your inbox every day
Get in touch
● Johnny Palmer of SXS Events rackets we see in Mafia films. Other than the fact that UK law makes this legal, I see little difference between business rates and localised extor-
into Bristol? What messages does this say to those considering moving existing businesses to both Bristol and UK? Business rates need to be eradicated for locally owned companies to help businesses grow, increase employment and bring money into the city. The people that own these companies are not the super-rich but the hard-working innovators, visionaries and entrepreneurs who, given the freedom to spend their money the way they see fit, will keep it in the city, employ more staff and make Bristol a better city Johnny Palmer, of Autonomous Investments and SXS. Johnny is a local businessman who runs a profitable events company providing innovative services all over the world and employing 15 full-time staff at his Bristol base. He also founded Autonomous Investments which is a property investment business with a focus on mid-sized commercial properties in Bristol.
Assistant Editor (Business) Gavin Thompson Call 0117 934 3336 Email gavin.thompson @b-nm.co.uk Twitter @gavin_thompson1 Advertising Robert Rodgerson Call07828 941469 Email robert.rodgerson @b-nm.co.uk Advertising Jane Chapman Call 01179 343025 Email jane.chapman @b-nm.co.uk Advertising Shama Abokor, Regional Business Account Executive Call 0117 934 3426 Emailshama.abokor@ b-nm.co.uk
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money they will get threatening visits and suffer aggressive action that could put them out of business. This all reminds me a lot of the extortion
tion rackets. Businesses, especially those under local ownership, are the life-blood of the economic success of this city. Without these companies and their owners Bristol City Council and numerous other beaurocracies could not exist at all. Yet businesses are being exploited for onerous taxes that do not equate to front-line benefit as well as make it much harder for them to grow. These small businesses are major employers in the city. Taking money from these businesses is likely to directly affect their ability to pay staff more, employ more people, invest in training and spend more on making a quality workplace. What message does this send to people considering starting their own companies and employing people? What does this say about how the council sees local businesses? How does this help the locally-owned companies employ more people and produce amazing products to bring money and talent
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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Accountancy
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Technology
Growth
‘Charities need to understand changes’
FSB backs LEPs – but calls for more say
● CHARITIES are being warned to make sure they are up to speed on changes in accountancy rules. Jon Marchant, pictured, director at the Bristol office of international accountants and business advisers Mazars, cautioned that charities needed to adhere as closely as possible to the fresh guidance. He said: “What we are seeing is a fine-tuning of what has gone before – so it should not be too burdensome for charities to take on board. “Nevertheless there are important differences and it is vital that charities fully understand and observe them – naturally high standards are crucial for any charity dealing with the public and handling funds.” The Charity Commission’s new statement of recommended practice comes into effect for accounting periods starting after January 1, 2015. There are two sets of new reporting procedures, one for smaller organisations, and they can choose so long as they meet the criteria of gross income of £6.5 million or less, gross assets of £3.26 million or less, or 50 or fewer staff. The changes largely centre around senior executive pay, income and presentation. Mazars is holding a free seminar aimed at charity professionals and trustees giving an overview of the changes. It takes place at Tortworth Court Hotel on Tuesday, September 23, 8.30am to 1.30pm, and will also cover fraud, VAT and investment.
● THE body created to stimulate economic growth and create jobs in the region has been urged to put small businesses at the centre of its plans. The Federation of Small Businesses and Centre for Local Economic Strategies today publishes a report on the success of Local Enterprise Partnerships. Its findings support the role of LEPs delivering growth but show small businesses should be better represented The FSB says small and medium sized businesses have been responsible for more than four in five jobs created in the private sector between 2010 and 2013, and represent half (48 per cent) of private sector turnover. However the report finds large businesses are still perceived to have the most influence within LEPs with two thirds of FSB representatives surveyed saying they felt that large businesses still exerted the greatest influence. The report recommends greater transparency about LEPs’ work, more accountability, more small business involvement in key decision making and making business support an integral part of LEP activity. Mark Owen, above, regional chairman of the Gloucestershire and West of England FSB, said the report was an important one at a time when the LEPs were set to deliver a number of high-profile projects locally. “The FSB believes that LEPs are crucial to delivering local economic growth across England and we are happy to work with them to make this happen. Small firms are the driving force of the West of England economy and will ultimately be responsible for creating the jobs and growth in the private sector which is the LEP’s primary aim, so it is absolutely essential that we are at the heart of LEPs plans and decision-making processes.”
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● Open Bionics founder Joel Gibbard with the working prototype that impressed Intel's judges
American dream Robotic hand duo’s trip to States Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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EARABLE technology used to be just for James Bond but in the next few years it will become accessible to all – and two Bristol pioneers could be at the forefront of that revolution. Joel Gibbard and Sammy Payne of Open Bionics have been chosen as one of ten global finalists in Make It Wearable, an Intel competition looking for the big ideas in the field. As finalists they already get $50,000 (£30,000) as well as the chance to fly out to the United States for training and mentoring. Their submission is the low-cost robotic hand, a project Joel has been working on from his base at the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, at UWE’s Frenchay campus, for some time.
His goal is create a robotic hand for amputees that can replicate the most advanced technology in the field but for under $1,000 (£600) a time. Currently, leading prosthetics cost closer to ($100,000) £60,000. The pair are in the running for the $500,000 grand prize Joel said he was surprised but delighted to reach this stage. “I think Open Bionics is doing something completely different to all the other competitors,” he said. “We’re focused on creating the most advanced technology to sell at the lowest possible price. We’re less profit driven. “Compared with the other products, we have the smallest market but the greatest potential to make a real difference in people’s lives.” Joel said the money would pay for essential development costs and keep the company running long enough to start generating income. But he added: “The trip to California is far more exciting. The experience and the training
programme is going to be far more valuable in the long-term because it’s teaching us how to be entrepreneurs. “I need to know whether the product I’m making is going to be useful to amputees and whether this is something they really want, and need.” Sammy, Open Bionic’s marketing manager and occasional freelance contributor to these pages, said: “It’s great to be recognised by Intel, it’s a company that’s hugely successful, very reputable, and globally recognised. “And it’s amazing to have access to these entrepreneurs and business experts, let alone have them teach us. Being out in Silicon Valley and at UC Berkeley is going to be a huge learning curve for us.” She added the company has previously had mentoring support from Philip Døssing, a senior designer at Lego, and that exposure to such talented people was “invaluable”.
Haulage
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Logistics firm looks to take on 100 new staff A DISTRIBUTION company is on a recruitment drive to get a wider range of people into the haulage sector as demand continues to grow. Gregory Distribution Limited is looking for 100 new staff, 20 of them at its Avonmouth depot. Chief executive John Gregory said: “We have grown by 30 per sent over the last three years. We have now identified further areas of the business that require new recruits, including drivers and support staff. “Our aim is to convince younger people that driving is more than just another job. It is highly professional and responsible with a great deal of
personal discretion and it requires a high level of training over and above driving skills. It also provides career opportunities – many members of our management teams have risen to their current positions having started as drivers.” Bristol’s location on the cross roads of the M4 and M5 means the area has good road links to the South West, South Wales, West Midlands and London which is why firms such as Gregroy choose it as a base. But recruiting is becoming more competitive, with companies having
● John Gregory of Gregory Distribution Ltd to raise salaries to get staff. John said: “We hope young people will be impressed that as a family-run business that is approaching its centenary, we are in for the long haul and offer stable, often challenging but ul-
timately rewarding employment prospects. In terms of pay, we are very competitive and are in the top 25 per cent of the industry.” The firm is holding an open day at its depot on Saturday.
Construction
Integral to refurbish offenders’ institute ● BRISTOL-based Integral Build has secured major refurbishment project at a Young Offenders’ Institute. The firm, specialists in construction, interiors, refurbishment and fit out, has started work on the refurbishment of the pharmacy at the Young Offenders’ Institution in Feltham, Middlesex. It was contracted by Care UK, an independent provider of health and social care services, particularly to the public sector. The work involves stripping out and re-fitting counters, mechanical and electrical components and sanitary ware. The nature of the project calls for careful planning as security of the site and access has to be very closely managed and controlled. Divisional director Tim Stringer said: “This is a sensitive project in a high-security environment and reflects our ability to work in challenging situations where the impact of time, cost and phased operations have a particularly important part to play.”
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Haulage
5
Survey
Manufacturing growth stays steady
Sweet smell of success with delivery deal
A HAULIER is waxing lyrical about his latest contract win. Avonmouth-based John T Evans secured a deal to deliver products across Europe for its near neighbour, Yankee Candle. The haulier, part of the Palletways
European distribution network, has unveiled a new livery for its trucks carrying the popular scented candles. Martin Chalke, director at John T Evans, said: “From our depot in Bristol, we are ideally situated to collect
from Yankee Candle’s Avonmouth headquarters for ongoing delivery of products to the UK and mainland Europe.” Yankee Candle’s Bristol base is the fir m’s HQ for its operations outside the US.
Legal advice
Call centre Agilisys creates more jobs after landing £5.7m contract Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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N IT and business processes provider is creating more jobs in North Somerset after winning a £5.7 million contract to run a legal advice call centre. Agilisys will run the phone and digital civil legal advice contact centre for the Legal Aid Agency for three years, with an option to extend for a further two. The deal will bring 50 new jobs to the firm’s customer services centre based in North Somerset Council’s
Castlewood office in Clevedon. The helpline service is funded by legal aid and helps determine whether people qualify for support. Those who do can access free and confidential legal advice in England and Wales in areas of law including benefit appeals; debt, if your home is at risk; special educational needs; housing; and discrimination. This contract win is the second in recent months. The firm created 30 new jobs at its Weston-super-Mare Town Hall site after securing work to provide call centre and back office customer support for Westminster Council. Regional director Cliff Graham, pictured, said: “We are delighted to bring even more new jobs to North
Somerset – 80 new posts announced in the last two months alone – and look forward to working with the Legal Aid Agency to deliver an excellent service to citizens which is essential to the fair, effective and efficient operation of the civil justice systems in the UK. “This announcement builds on Agilisys’ success in providing customer services from our service centres in Weston-super-Mare and Clevedon, which have grown significantly since opening in partnership with North Somerset Council in 2010.” The council appointed Agilisys to
provide its support services four years ago after the firm committed to bring new jobs to the district. So far it has created 225 roles, with a target of 250. Council leader Nigel Ashton welcomed the announcement. “It’s great news for North Somerset that Agilisys are bringing even more new jobs to the area,” he said. “This supports our commitment to work with our partners to strengthen the local economy. The added benefit for local residents is the additional jobs and income that will be generated from hosting the service centre from council buildings.”
Bristol Pound
New app is right on the money Nick Xiao, from the firm, said: “We love the city of Bristol and are proud of being Bristolians. The launch of Bristol Pound was a phenomenal event that gives even more character to the city, supports local businesses and promotes a fairer, happier and greener community. “As one of the local businesses we are keen to contribute as much as we can in our own way, and developing a mobile app for Bristol Pound is the most pragmatic way for us to do so.” The app provides an up-to-date list of nearby Bristol Pound businesses, which are taken directly from the
online Bristol Pound directory. Discounts will be listed when the user goes to the business profiles. Members can also see a breakdown of their transactions to demonstrate how much they have contributed to their local economy. The app improves the text payment system. Stephen Clarke, pictured, Bristol Pound CIC director said: “Members already love using the TXT2PAY service; it is a risk-free way to make a clear statement that they want to support their local high streets. This app will make it even easier.”
● A new app has been created for people spending Bristol Pounds
Finance
Ethical bank Triodos grows its business ● THE ethical bank Triodos has strengthened its balance sheet and grown its business over the past six months. The bank, which has its UK headquarters in Bristol, grew its balance sheet by six per cent to 6.8 billion euros (£5.4 billion). It now manages 10 billion euros (£7.9 billion) of assets, through the bank, investment funds and private banking divisions. Net profits were down 14 per cent, however, to 11.5 million euros (£9.1 million), which was affect by its contribution to the nationalisation of Dutch bank SNS REAAL. Without that, net profits would have risen 22 per cent. Chief executive Peter Blom said: “Sustainable banking with Triodos Bank remains an attractive proposition for many people in Europe. “Growth of our lending remains limited because of the economic uncertainty, a careful approach to making loans and an increasing regulatory burden which takes time and effort to deliver. “A steady growth in volumes, of approximately 10 per cent in funds entrusted and around 13 per cent in loans, is expected for 2014.” Triodos opened its new Bristol HQ in 2012 as part of a green development also housing the Environment Agency. Its location here, and the strong ethical bent to many Bristol businesses, gives it a significant market locally. The bank is holding its annual investor day on Saturday, September 13, at the Passenger Shed, Temple Meads.
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A NEW app has been launched to make it easier for customers who want to spend Bristol Pounds with local businesses. The app, which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play, will notify shoppers of nearby businesses accepting the local currency, track spending and highlight local discounts for using it. Graham Woodruff, Bristol Pound CIC technical director, said: “People have been nagging us for an app since we launched, so we’re delighted to finally have one. “We hope that our members will try it out and let us know how it goes!” It has been developed by Knowle-based software firm Pocket Intelligence.
● MANUFACTURING growth has eased, according to a new survey, but to levels that should be more sustainable. That is the findings of the quarterly Manufacturing Outlook, published by manufacturers’ organisation EEF and accountancy firm BDO. It shows more firms reporting a rise in orders, at +12 percentage points, but output remaining level. But there is caution around exports, with the stagnant Eurozone and stronger Sterling hampering hopes overseas. John Talbot, right, at BDO LLP in Bristol, said: “Although these figures are more muted than previous quarters, the continuing trend of positive business performance is welcome news to our regional economy and jobs market. “Manufacturers have successfully ridden out the economic storm of the last seven years so they understand how to effectively balance investment against expectations. “There is nervousness surrounding overseas markets, so a strong recovery in exports this year is still uncertain. My concern is that companies will use that as an incentive to focus investment on domestic markets, which is not necessarily where long-term sustainable growth will lie.”
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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Flooring
Giant on a roll Carpet firm toasts 10 years in business with rebrand Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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VER the past decade the team from Carpet Giant have provided flooring for more than 70,000 homes and laid more than 3 million square metres of flooring. The store is celebrating 10 years since opening in Yate, marking the occasion with a rebrand and overhaul of its website to make it tablet-friendly. The firm started before that as Carpetman in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, founded by Steve Morgan and Bill Moreton. It was Steve’s son Dan and business partner and childhood friend James Price who took on the business as it moved to Yate, where it now employs 16 people – with about eight fitters each day carrying out a total of about 200 jobs each week and claims to be the largest independent carpet retailer in the South West. The pair combined a passion for the trade and customer service ethos to make the firm a success. James said: “It’s been a fantastic 10 years for us. The business has gone from strength to strength and has built up a great reputation in that time, expanding so much that it’s now the largest independent retailer in the region. We’re enormously proud of what we’ve achieved.” James said the firm’s strength was putting the customer first. “Most of our trade are loyal customers, who keep coming back because of not just the affordable prices, but the service they receive,” he said. “We believe that building relationships with our customers are just as important as sending an invoice.” Unusually, if customers have difficulty getting the shop, the team will go to them taking samples to choose from. The store is officially launching its new look on Saturday with a fun day opened by town mayor Councillor Wully Perks. The firm is also running a competition for someone to win their whole house carpeted for free.
● Carpet Giant directors James Price Daniel Morgan
Charity carpet haul A team from Carpet Giant has been raising money for charity by carrying a roll of carpet for 10km around Yate and Chipping Sodbury. A team of four lugged the carpet in a relay as part of the firm’s anniversary celebrations
Photographer: Michael Lloyd BRML20140828A-001
and to raise money for the Yate ad Chipping Sodbury Foodbank, run by the Trussell Trust. Managing director James Price said: “Some people find themselves down on their luck through no fault of their own and the food bank offers them breathing space to help them get back on their feet.”
James added: “We’re really excited about the day and want as many people to join us as possible. The residents of Yate and the surrounding area have really supported us over the years and we’re keen for everyone to get involved to help us mark the occasion. We’ve got lots going on to appeal to the whole family, which should make it fun for all. Fingers crossed that the weather will be as bright as we feel!”
Engineering
Firm invests in 3D printing in Indian plant ● AN engineering company is investing in new technology for metal 3D printing in India. Renishaw is based in Wotton-under-Edge and employs hundreds of people from the Bristol area. The firm recently joined a trade mission to India led by the Deputy Prime Minister and Nick Clegg announced the investment as part of that visit. The firm plans to create its first Indian additive manufacturing – 3D metal printing – technical centre in Pune. The firm has a long-term commitment to the Indian market, already having a base in Pune making components the group. Rhydian Pountney, pictured, the firm’s director responsible for Indian sales and marketing operations, presented Mr Clegg with a 3D printed titanium scale replica of the company’s 19th-century headquarters. He said: “We are delighted the Deputy Prime Minister was able to make this announcement during this important trade mission. The thrust of the additive manufacturing technical centres is to create a platform on which to work in close partnership with our customers to help them realise the benefits of AM in their products and manufacturing processes. Our new Indian AM technical centre will be equipped with the latest products and will be staffed by our knowledgeable local team who are well versed in service, applications and process engineering.” The Deputy PM said Britain was building a special relationship with India. “Strong British companies such as Renishaw will be vital to these efforts to create a stronger economy with a new special relationship with India,” he said.
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Trio hope to carve out future as apprentices at timber yard A TIMBER supply firm is planting the seeds for its future success by taking on its first apprentices. Clarks Wood Company has taken on three apprentices who will be signing up for programmes run by City of Bristol College. Ellee Slater, 17, is taking on a level two course in business administration, while James Wood, 16, and Robert Goscombe-Best, 17, will be working towards a warehousing and distribution qualification. They will all be based at the firm’s timber yard in St Philip’s and will be working towards the chance of full-time employment at the end of their training. More companies are turning to apprenticeships as a way of meeting the skills shortages they face in future. Depot manager Phil Steadman said: “Ellee, James and Rob are the
very first apprentices to be taken on by the company in living memory, and we are very excited at the prospect of introducing three young people into the business. “The timber industry remains a very traditional business and does not attract many young people which, to me, is a failing of the sector as a whole. Every business needs enthusiastic and energetic young blood who will, hopefully, grow and develop with it and help bring fresh and innovative ideas to the way the rest of the workforce operates.” He said taking on the trio was a very important investment for the firm, which got off to its best-ever start to the year, outperforming its targets with “soaring sales and a rapidly-rising client base”. Phil said: “Our aim over the next 12 months is to continue with our mod-
● Apprentices from left, Robert Goscombe-Best, Ellee Slater and James Wood at the Clarks Wood timber yard in Bristol
ernisation plans for the timber yard and roll out a comprehensive expansion programme to the retail trade, and the apprenticeship appointments will be integral to the success of these advances in the business.” The firm was founded in 1818 and last year become part of larger Premier Forest Group, which has invested £250,000 in new machinery and facilities. Since then, and amid a recovering construction market, timber sales have gone up 43 per cent on the same period last year. Earlier this year the firm, which employs 20 people, won the Contribution to the Community category at this summer’s Bristol Post Business Awards thanks to its policy in providing employment and training opportunities for local people with a learning disability.
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Wednesday, September 3, 2014
7
The Big Interview After 30 years in the corporate sector Roger Childs has found new drive in his fundraising role for St Peter’s Hospice, as Rupert Janisch reports
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OU only need to look around high streets in every corner of Bristol to see that St Peter’s Hospice is a big operation. It has charity shops in 47 locations around the city, not only in central Bristol but also South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and part of B&NES. With 350 paid employees and a further 1,700 volunteers, the charity cares for 2,000 people with terminal illness each year at home, in the community and at its in-patient hospice at Brentry. And with only a fifth of the £7 million required to run this operation each year coming from the
St Peter’s role has given me an incredible sense of purpose
Vital statistics Name: Roger Childs Age: 49 Place of birth: Bristol School: Patchway High School First job: Management trainee, Marks & Spencer Hero or inspiration: My wife and two daughters provide all the inspiration I need
My working day You wake up at? 6am What do you have for breakfast? Bowl of cereal What time do you start work? Emails and phone calls generally start from 8am What happens in your typical working day? No two days are exactly the same, but my time is split between my office in Long
all the commercial functions of the organisation, from retail, fundraising and marketing, PR, business management – effectively most of the non-clinical areas of what the hospice does. The rest of the management team is a clinical director, the director of patient care who manages the nursing teams and also a finance director. Above them are a board of trustees and chief executive Simon Caraffi, who is based at the Brentry site. Roger and his team are situated in a business park in Long Ashton. He seems to like it that way. “My role is very autonomous,” he said, “which is one of the attractions of doing it. “Before I moved here I was living just outside Bristol and was travelling to London every day, so when I left my last job I thought it was a good opportunity to evaluate what I
My downtime
Ashton, the hospice site at Brentry and anywhere in/around Bristol where we have shops or fundraising activities. What time do you go home? I aim to be home by 6pm Do you take work home/attend evening functions? I separate my work and home life, so never take work home, but the nature of my job requires attending occasional evening and weekend fundraising events.
wanted out of life and what I wanted to do. “Now I have a very good work/life balance and all the motivation that I need through the nature of my work. The sense of purpose you get with this job is quite unlike anything else I have known. “In the commercial world you are working hard ultimately for shareholder return. Which is fine, but when you talk to the patients and the family members served by the hospice, as I have been privileged enough to do, it gives you an incredible sense of purpose and a drive and determination to do the best that you can.” Under Roger’s directorship, changes are afoot on the commercial side of St Peter’s Hospice.
What’s your perfect weekend? Spending time with my family, including ‘Dad’s Taxi’ duties. What’s your favourite book or film or TV show? Sky News. Sadly, I’m a news junkie. What are your hobbies (if any)? Travel (particularly by rail or sea), gardening
Regulars at the charity shops will notice modernisation of the ways they operate, including TV screens with promotional videos publicising other ways to support the charity’s fundraising methods. By the end of the month, a quarter of the shops will be converted in this way and the rest will follow within the next two years. Mr Childs is also looking to increase the size of the shops where possible, as well as setting up another clearance shop similar to the one which has been such a success in the Broadwalk Shopping Centre in Knowle. St Peter’s is the only adult hospice in the Bristol area. A mixture of potential administrative confusion among GPs and a gentlemen’s agree-
ment among hospices in the region that they don’t encroach on each others’ patches means that there’s no chance of the organisation spreading outside the city. So for Mr Childs, the emphasis is on maximising the effectiveness of what is here already, and expanding within the city where possible. “We are trying to work far more collaboratively in all of our income generation areas,” he said. “And why wouldn’t we? We have 47 shops out there with huge traffic going in and out of them and we have an opportunity that was perhaps hitherto missed to highlight the work that we do. “It’s about looking at it holistically. With regular reminders and prompts about us and what we do, you have to have the faith that it will spur people into action. What we don’t want to do is make every contact with people become an ask.”
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NHS, there’s a great deal of money – £14,000 per day – to be found. That’s where the charity’s commercial director Roger Childs comes in. With 30 years of corporate experience, latterly as retail operations director at bookshop chain Waterstones responsible for 315 shops in the UK and Europe, about 4,500 staff and about £500m of turnover, Roger knows a bit about commerce. And for the past two years he has been applying his expertise to raising enough funds for St Peter’s Hospice to continue raising its game and improving its offering. So where does the money come from? “Essentially through three main contributors,” he said. “£6,600 of the £14,000 comes from our shops and they’re the biggest contributor. “Online sales are an opportunity for us and extend our catchment from beyond the Bristol area to the world. “Our staff are trained to identify high value items that will sell better online and they go to our eBay shop. We also work closely with auctioneers Clevedon Salerooms who provide free training and advice to our shop teams on the sort of things we can get better money for. We have an obligation to get the best value for things that we are donated, so we can provide better services. “The next biggest is our fundraising activities – we have a range of activities which we organise. “We have an awful lot of people who provide direct giving, either through direct debits or appeals, who are making cash donations to us. “We also have a very large programme of events, such as the Midnight Walk which is our biggest of the year. That raises well over £100,000 for us. “And the final big chunk, of £3,600 a day, comes from gifts in wills. That’s often people who have had no direct experience of what we do.” Roger’s directorship encompasses
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Property matters
SKILLS SHORTAGE IS NOT ONLY A The skills shortages facing the commercial property sector are much wider than just a lack of skilled tradesmen and pose a threat to growth. Gavin Thompson investigates
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ROPERTY is on the up. Look around Bristol and you’ll see cranes in the skyline. There are big residential projects and office-to-flats conversions a-plenty but there are shiny new offices climbing out from the ground too. A quick glance at the appointments in the back-page digest of this publication shows new hires by commercial property firms almost every week. The number of transactions in the commercial property sector was higher in the first six months of 2014 than any equivalent period since 2005, according to the Industrial Agents Society. Business is good for the sector, then. But this success brings new challenges and chief among them is talent. The sudden demand for commercial property deals and projects means a sudden demand for people too. The short supply of bricklayers, plumbers and electricians has been widely reported, but it goes further. The shortage includes more white-collar professions and a host of other skills through the sector. James Kingston, above, managing director of recruitment firm Kingston Barnes which specialises in construction, said the sector was looking at double digit growth next year and Bristol was particularly strong. “From our office in Queen Square we can see three huge commercial developments,” he said. “There is a shortage of good candidates, however, so we have to be more proactive in our approach.” He said the agency, which only launched last year, has more than 130 permanent vacancies on its books, showing the strength of the market. James said “90 per cent” of his focus was on finding talent – largely through headhunting – rather than look for vacancies. But even once his team finds the right man or woman, companies have to work hard to secure their candidate. He said: “Firms are having to offer 10 to 15 per cent increases in salary to attract people and increasingly we are then seeing current employers come back with counter offers beB015-1411 Bruton Bristol cause they know if theyKnowles lose that
person they have to invest in recruiting and training someone else.” He highlighted shortages locally for estimators and surveyors but said there are gaps right through the process starting with people who buy and manage land. And he added much of the growth in the industry now is coming from smaller players, such as Bristol-based Midas, which is developing Narrow Quay House in the Harbourside area, and Rydon Construction, rather than some of the more established names. Most agree the cause of the shortage is the gap in recruitment during and following the recession across most fields. Eric Livingston, a partner on the construction team at Thrings solicitors, based in Victoria Street, Bristol, said the firm had been recruiting in his team and the wider commercial property department. The Bristol-based team is about 20 people-strong but there have been several new hires in the last few months. “We held off recruiting until we were confident sustainable growth would continue, and it is,” he said. “Now we are very busy and are recruiting.” Eric added: “It’s not impossible to recruit good people, but there are a lot of people looking to do the same.” Patrick Downes, left, managing partner at commercial property agent Bruton Knowles has seen a surge in demand for qualified surveyors triggered by the faster than expected housing market recovery. His firm has been expanding ahead of that growth, opening offices in Bristol and Plymouth to build on its bases in Somerset and Gloucestershire, and therefore began recruiting earlier this year. Patrick said: “Most commentators were predicting a modest recovery in the housing and construction sectors but we took the strategic decision to open a number of new offices to ensure we met the increase in demand. “The recruitment of high calibre and experienced teams does not happen overnight and we are certainly Post the Commercial Advert 270x40mm AW 2.pdf not only commercial property
firm looking to recruit the best.” As part of that search for new blood, the firm is looking for a more diverse workforce. Patrick said just 13 per cent of members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors were women, so targeting more women is a long-term strategy. Evidence of that approach is Naomi Quick, right, who joined the firm and believes surveying is a rewarding career choice for women. “Surveying is a good career with great prospects,” she said. “I get a huge kick out of working in the industry and would like more women 1like06/05/2014 17:24 me to get the opportunity.
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“Surveying is a hugely diverse profession and gives me the chance to work on projects all over the world. I spend half my time out and about, which is great as I wouldn’t enjoy being behind a desk all day.” Most firms are recruiting now, but were not during the recession and subsequent stagnant years. Ryan Gardner, director at recruitment firm Hays, again in Victoria Street, said: “Given that the property industry was so badly hit by
enquiries@brutonknowles.co.uk brutonknowles.co.uk
the
downturn many companies stopped hiring and stopped investing in training. “Now the industry is growing again there aren’t the people to pick up the work so employers have to work hard to secure talented professionals. “For example, we were recently looking for opportunities in the private sector for a quantity surveyor who had been working in the public sector in Bristol and wanted to move across. His skills are so sought after
Achieve more from your property
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9
Expert eye
In association with
Angus Taylor Partner Bruton Knowles, 0117 287 2101 angus.taylor@ brutonknowles.co.uk
BLUE-COLLAR PROBLEM Property of the Week 0117 287 2101 brutonknowles.co.uk
To Let - Offices Part 3rd Floor Block A, Whitefriars, Lewins Mead, Bristol BS1 2NT
• Open plan air conditioned suite with two on site car parking spaces • 1,540 sq ft (143 sq ft) • EPC Band E Contact: paul.williams@brutonknowles.co.uk BK code:2433
● The upturn in the property and construction market in Bristol has revealed a shortage of skilled workers in a host of professions. From Queen Square, you can see the Skanska development, left, while Midas’ Narrow Quay House project is just around the corner that we secured three interviews for him within 24 hours and he was offered jobs by all three clients.” In addition to quantity surveyors, he highlighted mechanical and electrical design engineers, and architects are all “highly sought after” by employers in and around Bristol. Thankfully, Ryan said Bristol was well placed to draw talent from outside the city to fill gaps here. “Bristol is lucky in that it is well-known for being a great place to live and work so it can attract professionals from across the UK but we are still working with a limited talent B015-1411 Bruton Knowles Bristol pool,” he said.
Skills shortages are of course great for people with those skills who can command higher salaries and better conditions. But they are not so good for the economy. If a company wants to expand to a bigger premises, that’s great. But if there’s no one to find the premises, do the legal work, carry out the renovation work and so on, then the company can’t grow. Ryan said the skills shortage was damaging. “Employers are struggling to find the skills they need and it is already impacting on their growth plans,” he said. Post Commercial 270x40mm AW slug 2.pdf While in the Advert short term firms
“ Now the industry is growing again there aren’t the people to pick up the work. 1
Ryan Gardner, above 06/05/2014 17:24
Does your property make the Energy Act grade?
it out for the best talent, in the medium term they need to create their own. And that process needs to start yesterday. “Training has a key role to play here,” said Ryan. “Employers need to look at what skill sets they need now and what they are likely to need in the future and ensure training is in place to help up-skill workers. “We are already starting to see employers faced with counter offers when they are trying to recruit because the shortages are so severe. Not only do employers have to re-visit salaries for these in-demand workers but they often need to consider offering more generous benefits packages and aspects like flexible working in order to secure a new candidate or to retain their existing workforce.” Simon Prescott, senior planning partner at planning and design consultancy Barton Willmore, which has an office housing nearly 50 people in Victoria Street, is a former chairman of the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership’s construction group. He said hiring architects and planners is now very competitive and retaining key staff is the top priority for the management team, which means listening to staff and giving them opportunities to develop and further their career. “At one end in the recession a lot of architects found themselves in practices which were downsizing so a lot of talent was lost that has not come back to the profession,” he said. “Then at the other end, lots of universities were churning out graduates who were not able to pick up that critical first job to give them experience.” As the industry grows quickly it is struggling to expand its capacity fast enough. But Simon said it is not a crisis yet. “We are not yet in a position where skills shortages are causing immediate concern,” he said. “But the inability to recruit key people is a check we have in mind when formulating business plans for the next few years. “We – any anyone else who is any good – are very busy at the moment and our clients are very understanding of that.” He summed up: “There is a lot of pressure on us at the moment – but that’s a more enjoyable pressure than a few years ago when the pressure was to bring in any kind of significant job.” So the skills shortage is a worry, and it is a potential barrier to growth. But we shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that it’s a problem the comes from the very positive story of economic growth in Bristol.
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“ Businesses whose leases are up for renewal would be well advised to check the energy performance rating carefully before signing on the dotted line make any property more attractive to tenants. Those concerned about their portfolio will need to assess now the costs and benefits of improving the energy efficiency. With around 20 per cent of commercial buildings already falling within these categories Angus Taylor is concerned that the sector is facing a major challenge. Whilst the measures only come into force when a property is either sold or leased, failing to act now on poorly performing buildings could be a mistake unless you’re happy to have a portfolio of void properties on your hands as tenants either vote with their feet or decide to opt for cleaner, greener and cheaper options which will be available to them! The best time to undertake any energy efficiency improvements could be during current void periods or lease breaks, and often there are simple, low-cost measures which can be implemented, which can still have a significant impact on the energy rating of a building. For tenants, the forthcoming changes may mean that they can potentially drive down their rent or threaten to move on if the required improvements aren’t made.
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enquiries@brutonknowles.co.uk brutonknowles.co.uk
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OMMERCIAL landlords should be taking a close look at their property portfolios to ensure they are compliant with energy regulations due to come into force in 2018. Industry reports suggest as much as one fifth of all commercial property in the UK could fall foul of tougher regulations under the Energy Act and businesses whose leases are up for renewal would be well advised to check the energy performance rating carefully before signing on the dotted line. The new Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are due to come into force in April 2018. After this date it will become unlawful for any commercial property to be either sold or let with an EPC rating of below band E. This means, for example, that anybody looking to sign a new lease agreement now which runs beyond this date, may be able to use the new legislation as a bargaining chip in their negotiations with the landlord. Conversely, savvy landlords who are already ahead of the game and have better rated properties will be able to attract those wavering about whether to stay put or move on. While some local businesses will be looking to sign new agreements taking them forward to 2018 and beyond, being proactive now will help landlords reap the benefits later on and will
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Wednesday, September 3, 2014
In pictures Women Outside The Box netwalking event
STRETCHING LEGS AND MINDS ON N
ETOWRKING organisation Women Outside The Box is striding into its second year. Its City Business Club held a Netwalk yesterday, ensuring members got some fresh air and exercise whilst talking business with some of the city’s most up and coming female entrepreneurs. Women Outside The Box, founded by Joni Farthing, is an online platform, supported by offline clubs and events, helping women achieve business success. Started in Bristol, the WOTB brand is expanding and is set to open new City Business Clubs across the country. Its third annual Festival of Female Entrepreneurs takes place at Colston Hall on October 20. The netwalk was organised by member Rosalind J Turner of NetwalkingSW. Rosalind said: “Current research is showing our brains work differently when we walk, and the connections we make whilst outside tend to work at a deeper level.”
● Netwalkers Louise Poole, Julie Kenyon and Claire Ladkin chat at the Women Outside The Pictures: Paul Gillis Box event; top and right, women on the walk
In pictures Pure Comms fundraiser for the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund
Toasting the future with some fine wines
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TELECOMS company director outlined his growth plans to business leaders at a recent charity fundraising event. Pure Comms, based in Tickenham, North Somerset, hosted a fundraiser in support of the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund (RMCTF) which was attended by senior business leaders. The event was a fine wine and food taster evening at which director Rob Vivian announced plans to open a new office in Cornwall. He said the company had ambitions to be the biggest and best provider in the region but said it was committed to putting his employees and customers first with good service
and a fun working environment. He added: “The event was a huge success Rob said: “Our telecoms offering and and a good platform for us to announce style of doing business has proved to this big move. We’re proud to be be a recipe for success. I don’t supporting this worthy charity.” GALLERIES GALORE know of many telecoms companAround £500 was raised for the ies that operate like we do in charity, and senior members of FOR MORE BUSINESS terms of the events we run and the Royal Marines attended the EVENT PICTURES the way we re-invest in the busievening. See our website at ness. Launched in 2009 the com“We build our solutions pany already employs eleven bristolpost.co.uk/business around our customers and have members of staff and in 2012 created a fulfilling working enmoved to 2400 sq ft offices. vironment. Pure Comms counts auctioneers “We see Devon and Cornwall as a Bonhams, Bristol Airport, Redrock Regrowth area and an office in this location is cruitment, Virgin Fast Track company Opus the next logical step. and The Hive as its customers.
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Wednesday, September 3, 2014
NETWALKING EVENT
Business diary Wednesday@6: Institute of Directors informal networking at the Radisson Blu Hotel 6-8pm, Wednesday, September 3. Non members welcome. Free but to register call 0117 3707785 or email iod.southwest@iod.com. Set.Social: Networking for the creative industries held on the first Wednesday of every month to facilitate collaborative working amongst like-minded creative professionals, many of whom work from home as freelancers. At The Set, Bath Road Studios, from 6pm, Wednesday, September 3. Networking with Freelance Mum: A networking walk then talk for parents in business who want to bring their children. The event is aimed at those working parents, often freelance, who find themselves isolated. The next event is September 5, departing from St Andrew’s Park, North Bristol, at 10.30am. Find out more at www.freelancemum.co.uk. Access to Growth Capital: The London Stock Exchange and Capita Asset Services are organising this event to help fast-growing SMEs understand how they can get money to grow. From 2.30-6pm on September 9 at Burges Salmon offices, 1 Glass Wharf. Register at http://www. lseg.com/register1000.
● Above and bottom, members walking and talking at the Women Outside The Box event
Virgin StartUp Live: Practical start-up advice and inspiration. Pieminister founder Tristan Hogg and Giles Mitchell of Office Pantry will be on hand to offer advice. Takes place at the Watershed, 5.30-8pm, Tuesday, September 9. Sign up at http://www.virginstartup.org.
● Joni Farthing
● Charlie Bradley
● Lidia Drzewiecka
● Rosalind Turner
Institute of Directors Bristol branch Autumn Special Held at the University of Bristol Botanic Gardens with Martin Bigg from the Bristol Green Capital Partnership, Tuesday, September 9. Check www.iod.com/swestevents for more information and to book. Seasonal Facebook Campaigns: Strategies for Success: The latest talk from Bristol and Bath Marketing Network features a talk from Digital Visitor chief executive Antony Rawlins at the Clifton Club from 5.30-8pm on Tuesday, September 9. Book via eventbrite. Triodos annual meeting: A chance for customers, investors and anyone who’s interested in a more progressive approach to banking to find out more about the bank. This year the event will explore the real cost of food, energy, society and finance – demonstrating how the sustainable option provides true value in the long run. Speakers from Triodos Bank will be joined by Patrick Holden, director of the Sustainable Food Trust, Kids Company founder Camila Batmanghelidjh and Jeremy Leggett, chairman of Solarcentury. Saturday, Sept 13 at Brunel’s Old Station, Passenger Shed, Temple Meads, 10am to 4pm. Introduction to Bloodhound SCC: See the latest developments behind the supersonic car and learn about tax relief for research and development at this event organised by Chantrey Vellacott. It
takes place at the Bloodbound Technical Centre in Avonmouth from 4.30pm to 7pm on Sept 17. Electronics reliability engineering seminar: At the Celtic Manor Resort, Newport, on Wednesday September 24 from 9am to 4.30pm. Lunch buffet and refreshments. Organised by Bangor University to help companies understand the importance of reliability analysis and testing during product development and continuous improvement, and offer practical guidance to enhance product reliability, reduce costs and improve competitive advantage across region. £100. Email g.fargher@bangor.ac.uk. Inspiring Women Live! Series of events to help to connect the dots between personal and professional development. The events are aimed at women who want to be more successful in all aspects of their lives. Networking then speakers Louise Ladbrooke, Business West growth manager, and Denise Jacobs at the Marriott Royal from 6.30-9pm on Wednesday, September 24. See www.inspiringwomenlive.co.uk. The Bristol Business Exhibition: The exhibition attracts business owners and decision makers from across the region and is a great way to source suppliers and generate new business. It takes place at Ashton Gate Conference Centre from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday, September 30. Growing your business into a winning brand seminar: Gregg Latchams and ActionCOACH Bristol & North Somerset jointly host an event with guest speakers including local cheese maker Todd Trethowan and Chris Head of the West of England Rural Network. They will talk about creating and marketing a successful brand and how to grow a food business in the current climate. To reserve your place send an email to kayleigh. groves@gregglatchams.com. Oct 1, 10am-1.30pm, Puxton Park. Refreshments and lunch provided. Process Improvement seminar: APDS, supplier of drives and motors, holds event to educate industry leaders on how they can cut their energy bills without compromising production processes. October 8 at ABB training centre, Bristol. Book for morning or afternoon session via eventbrite. Women Outside the Box Festival: This year, Women Outside The Box is holding their annual festival of female entrepreneurship - Reach Out For Success - at Colston Hall. Monday, October 20. Bristol Junior Chamber Presidents’ Lecture: Baroness Gillian Shephard, Deputy Chair of the Government’s Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission talks on “What is the economic importance of improving social mobility and what is the current state of social mobility in 21st century Britain?” 11.30am on November 26 at Clarke Willmott LLP, Bath Street, Bristol.
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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● Rob Vivian, centre, raising a toast with Hayden Rushton, managing director of Britannia Windows
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Wednesday, September 3, 2014
The back page
Your digest of the week in business
People ● An HR professional who has worked in senior roles at Lloyds, BP, HBoS and First Group as well as running her own consultancy, has been appointed to head the HR consulting team at accountancy and investment management group, Smith & Williamson. Geraldine Buckland, inset below, has been appointed to lead the Bristol-based team, taking over from partner Rachel Stone. “The true heart of a business lies with its people and my role centres on helping organisations to build successful, long-term relationships with colleagues and clients,” said Geraldine, who is a change management specialist. ● Commercial property firm DTZ has made five promotions in its Bristol office. James Marsh (professional advisory services) has been promoted to director, Philip Cranstone (industrial agency) and Christian Crawfurd (project and building consultancy) are now associate directors. Rebekah Formosa (public sector advisory) and James Cinicola (development consulting) have been promoted to senior surveyor level. Tim Davis, senior director and head of the office said: “Throughout the downturn, DTZ continued to invest in our people and offer career progression. “As the market becomes more favourable we have adopted an ambitious growth agenda and I am delighted to announce the promotion of these future leaders of our business.” ● The Savills new homes team in Bristol has expanded by appointing Vicky Dudbridge as an associate director. Her arrival comes after the team saw reservations increase by nearly 20 per cent in the first six months of 2014 compared with the same period last year, and by over 60 per cent on the same period in 2012. Vicky, who joins from JLL, is responsible for the sale and marketing of new build residential property throughout the South West. George Cardale, Savills’ Bristol-based head of new homes, said: “Vicky’s appointment brings considerable experience and expertise at a time when demand for our services is at a premium.”
● The Sanderson Weatherall team who have moved to Queen Square
● From left, James Marsh, Christian Crawfurd, Philip Cranstone and Rebekah Formosa
Places ● Growing chartered surveyors and commercial property specialists Sanderson Weatherall has bolstered its profile in Bristol with a new address. The local arm of the business has relocated to Queen Square, giving it one of the more prestigious addresses among the professional services community. Richard Saunders, partner in retail agency, said: “Our commitment to Bristol over the last two years has seen us grow to 13 staff in a short space of time. “We are delighted to put our roots down in Queen Square. The location works brilliantly for us, being close to the now premier business district of Temple Quay and Temple Meads train station, yet still in close proximity to the waterfront and Cabot Circus. It’s the right choice for a growing, ambitious business such as ours.” ● On pages 8&9 today we’ve featured the skills shortage in the commercial property sector. And the
growing demand for talent can be see again here. Waldeck, the multidisciplinary services provider, is creating 15 new energy and infrastructure roles at its Coldharbour Lane base. The positions range from civil and structural engineers to CAD and BIM technicians and have been created to meet increased demand for its services in the nuclear and renewable energy sector. Director and founder Paul Waldeck said: “The next 25 years will see a boom in infrastructure building with an estimated £110 billion of investments forecast for energy related projects by 2020. “Nuclear power generation is expected to play a significant part in this due to the ever increasing demand for energy, reduction in fossil fuel operations and concerns over energy security. “Our business is growing rapidly to help meet these infrastructure demands, and to continue to offer the most effective and efficient solutions for our clients, we’re looking for the best people possible to strengthen our delivery teams.”
● Job creation is not limited to infrastructure and property. Friends Life has 11 vacancies as it expands its Bristol-based accountancy team. That’s about 20 per cent as the current team is just 50. The team needs both qualified and part qualified accountants and assistant accountants. It’s an interesting snapshot of the picture across Bristol’s professional services right now, that such a big company, which has 1,000 employees in Bristol, has so many vacancies in one department and an issue the Business team may well revisit in the coming months. ● Somewhat running against the tide of growth, however, is the latest confidence report. The ICAEW/Grant Thornton UK Business Confidence Monitor has found that the confidence within the region has fallen to +24.2. Although the index comfortably remains in positive territory, it means confidence has fallen for the second consecutive quarter. Jon Blake, ICAEW regional director for the South West, said: “Businesses are beginning to appreciate the challenges of the current economic situation. “Our exports remain weak, and this is not helped by the difficulties facing our trading partners in the eurozone. We look to the Bank of England and the government to work harder to ensure that the recovery is placed on a broader footing before we see this still relatively high optimism erode away.” It’s not all bad. The region has seen a growth in employment, increasing by 2.1 per cent in the past year and sales and profit are rising. Tim Lincoln, the new man in charge at Grant Thornton in Bristol, added: “While it is encouraging to see that more jobs are being created in our region, confidence is clearly fragile. Our mid-sized businesses, which together employ around 300,000 people in the South West, have a key part to play in the recovery but too often their potential is being stifled. “One particular area which needs urgent attention is the excessive demands being placed on these businesses by an unnecessarily complex tax system.” Well said, Tim. Perhaps we’ll sign you up to our Real Rates Reform campaign (see pages 2&3).
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Ride to Paris to support hospitals ● TOMORROW is officially Cycle to Work day, and business people have a couple of very good reasons to get on their bikes. First, the Golden Gift Appeal for Bristol’s hospitals wants businesses to get behind its Bristol to Paris Cycle Challenge, with a launch event tomorrow night at Burges Salmon’s offices at 1 Glass Wharf, Temple Quay. Bosses from Stuff Advertising, Specsavers, Avonline plc, Destination Bristol, Mubaloo and hospital consultants from University Hospitals Bristol will be among those taking part. Jonnie Galvin-Wright, pictured, managing director of Stuff Advertising, said: “As a local businessman I feel very passionate about supporting our hospitals – that’s why I’m taking part.”
The challenge takes place May 1-5 next year. Registration closes on 19 September. To attend the launch event, please reserve your place by contacting Lorna Clarke at lorna. clarke@aboveandbeyond.org.uk or 0117 3700 842. Money raised will help provide an individual room in hospital for patients with cystic fibrosis, a life-shortening genetic condition that damages the lungs and digestive system and leaves patients vulnerable to infection. Meanwhile, on Thursday, September 11, the Bristol Property Agents’ Association is taking to the roads of North Somerset for charity. Phil Morton, senior director at
CBRE, is organising the event. He said: “This is a fun event that has grown each year to become a landmark in the city property industry’s calendar. It’s hard work but we have fun, see some beautiful countryside – and raise money for good causes.” Jeremy Richards, head of JLL in Bristol, is president of the BPAA. He said: “The Cyclosportive raises thousands of pounds for charity each year. Participants pay to take part, with this year’s proceeds going to the Transplant Sport and Penny Brohn Cancer Care charities. “Last year over 300 riders took part and we are hoping to increase
In numbers Inflation (CPI)
1.6 2.5 0.4 0.5 3.99
Inflation (RPI)
Weekly earnings
Base interest rate
%
%
Corporation tax % Main rate
21
Small profits rate – below £300,000
20
%
Business current accounts
1.01% State Bank £10,000 deposit of India 0.25% £1 deposit
Business savings accounts 1.8% Cambridge & Counties Bank £10,000 deposit State Bank of India
1.49% £10,000 deposit
Source:
128 133 137 69
Unleaded
.28p
that number for this year’s event.” All three routes will start and finish at the Redwood Lodge Hotel and Country Club in Failand. Enquiries should be made to Philip.Morton@cbre.com.
%
Ave mortgage rate %
Petrol prices .85p
● BW Cycling’s Oli Beckingsale with BPAA President Jeremey Richards and event organiser Phil Morton, senior director at CBRE
%
Diesel
.28p Super unleaded
.97p LPG
Source: PetrolPrices.com