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WOMEN ON BOARD
FAST REACTIONS
GROWTH SURGE
How becoming a charity trustee helps break career barriers – p2
SMEs need to act now to make most of Hinkley Point C – p8&9
How electricals firm went from home base to £9m turnover – p5
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SHAUN IN THE CITY
BUSINESSES BACK WOOLLY THINKING How Bristol companies are making the most of high-profile charity trail at home and in the capital – See page 4 EPB-E01-S3
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Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Women in Business THE CATEGORIES
● Katherine Sparkes, who runs corporate social responsibility consultancy Flamingo, based in Westbury Park
Charity works Trustee role can build confidence and open doors Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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ECOMING a charity trustee can help women to break through the glass ceiling. And with an estimated 700 trustee vacancies on Bristol charity boards, there’s a world of opportunity out there. The organisation Getting On Board is encouraging businesswomen in Bristol to volunteer as trustees as they climb the career ladder. The opportunity can be a win-win, as it allows them to give something back, as well as gain skills and grow their confidence. A Getting On Board study of 250 women who have become trustees
in association with
found 74 per cent believed it had improved their confidence and 38 per cent said they had new leadership aspirations as a result. One woman who can vouch for that is Katherine Sparkes, who runs corporate social responsibility consultancy Flamingo, based in Westbury Park.
Katherine, 34, also set up a charity called the Flamingo Foundation and is chair of the Rainbow Centre in Knowle, which helps children who have lost parents. She said: “Trusteeships are a brilliant way you can contribute skills you already have while learning the skills you don’t have. “It’s a great way to fill the skills gap. I always volunteered for human resources committees because, working for myself, I had never even been given an appraisal let alone done one. “As a trustee you are never on your own, you are always part of a team so learn from others – so long as you are prepared to contribute the skills you do already have.” Katherine said women shouldn’t hold back, as there are 1,400 charities in Bristol and on average every other one has a trustee vacancy.
The sponsors
“Some people think you have to be terribly wise or terribly old, or wait for a magical tap on the shoulder,” she said. “That’s not the case. If there is a charity you are passionate about, give them a ring.” Another way women can boost their careers is through awards, such as the Bristol Post and Bath Chronicle Women in Business Awards which are now open for entries.. Katherine said: “Awards can make a huge difference to confidence and business. Recognition is always lovely and awards can also be a great way to grow your business network.” The Bristol Post and Bath Chronicle Women in Business Awards take place on March 19 at the Bristol City Centre Marriott. Entries must be submitted by January 16 and will then be judged by an expert panel who will draw up a shortlist of finalists.
● To enter, sponsor a category or book tickets for the night, visit www.bristolpost.co.uk/wiba. If you’re talking about the awards on social medial, use #wiba. Find out more about trustreeships at www.gettingonboard.org.
Woman of the Year: A woman who has made a significant personal contribution to the success of the established company they run or in which they are employed. Young Entrepreneur of the Year: A woman who has made a significant contribution to the company they run, in which they are employed or the organisation they have been promoted or fast tracked within. Mentor of the Year: The woman who has demonstrated the skills of being a mentor to male or female employees, who has gone the extra mile in supporting a colleague or business and has made a difference to their life or business. Contribution to the Community, sponsored by The Mall Cribbs Causeway: The woman who can demonstrate the difference she has made to their community and/or Bristol and Bath over the last year (from Jan 1 2014 to Jan 1 2015). Women in the Workplace Award, sponsored by PPC: A company which has demonstrated a flexibility and adaptability to the employment of women. New Business of the Year, sponsored by Your Street Gift Cards: Open to all businesses that have started trading since January 2013 and principal trading base is in Bristol or Bath with either woman/women owners or a female head of the company. Business of the Year: This award will go to the profitable business that either has a female owner/s or a high percentage of females on the senior management team. Award for Innovation: A business that has introduced a new product, process, invention, idea, or design that has made a significant contribution to the business and has a female owner/s or a high percentage of females on the senior management team. Marketing Campaign of the Year: An organisation that has communicated effectively with its target audience (internal or external) over the past year, either as part of an ongoing programme or a one-off campaign. Female Apprentice of the Year: A female apprentice who can show the impact she has had on the organisation she works for, as well evidence of personal development and progression. Outstanding Contribution to Business in Bristol and Bath, sponsored by UWE: The businesswoman who, in the opinion of the judges, has made a considerable, profitable and lasting contribution to business in Bristol and Bath. This category is not open for submissions but handpicked by the judges.
Insurance
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Broker’s profits rise by 40 per cent AN insurance broker which employs 330 people in the Bristol area has increased its post-tax profits by 40 per cent. Jelf, which is based in Chipping Sodbury and also has an office in Clifton, reported profits of £6.5 million after tax, up from £4.6 million in 2013. Revenues were also up, by 8.4 per cent from £76.2 million to £82.6 million. Group chief executive Alex Alway said the strong results came as the firm celebrated a big milestone. He said: “I am particularly pleased that the group has delivered such a strong set of trading results in a year that it celebrates its 25th anniversary
as a business and its 10th year on AIM.” In June, Jelf bought rival The Insurance Partnership and has since been making savings which has helped raise earnings before tax in the insurance division by 69 per cent to £9.4 million, from £5.6 million. The firm’s employee benefits, healthcare and financial planning businesses also performed well, with earnings of £4.8 million, £1.3 million and £400,000 respectively. Founded by Bristolian Chris Jelf in 1989 from a small office in Soundwell and employing just a handful of staff, the company has grown rapidly over the last quarter of a century and is now the third largest UK independ-
ent broker with 33 offices. Reflecting on the 25 years, Chris said: “Jelf has worked hard to set standards that our competition find hard to outdo. We have built an award-winning business founded on the ethos of placing the client at its heart and providing the very best care and personal service – a core value that still remains true today.” Looking ahead, Alex added: “We continue to operate in what is an extremely competitive market. Trading since October 1, 2014 is in line with expectations and we look forward to another year of profitable growth.” The firm will pay a dividend of 2p per share next month.
● Alex Alway and Chris Jelf Hillside Court
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Construction
New base Construction supplier forecasts growth as branch opens Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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FIRM that sells vital equipment for the booming construction industry has invested £1 million in a new 16,000 sq m Bristol branch. Finning UK has set up the branch, complete with workshop facilities, in Portbury’s industrial estate. The investment marks a vote of confidence in the recovery of the construction market in the South West. The new premises reflect the strong customer demand for Caterpillar products alongside Finning’s repair and maintenance services. The firm sees the move as a significant long-term local investment in a permanent location within the Bristol area, expanding its national network to 26 branches and 1,800 staff. South West service operations manager Mark Brealey said: “Bristol is really well placed to service the booming South West construction equipment market. “It has a great transport network and is ideal for supporting new and existing customers. “We are predicting significant growth opportunities for our customers and believe this will provide a great platform to enhance our customers’ experience, in terms of both the selling and servicing of Caterpillar equipment in the area. “The prospect for growth is also very exciting and we expect to see future job opportunities across the board, from engineering apprenticeships, to sales and office support staff.
● Finning UK & Ireland’s managing director Neil Dickinson opens the new Bristol branch; below, the workshop “We have big plans for the branch and the new workshops will ensure we are able to deliver an enhanced repair and maintenance service to customers throughout the region.” The construction industry is certainly growing fast, with huge housing projects around the Bristol area, many around the city’s northern fringe in Filton, Emersons Green and Cribbs Causeway. The city is also well located on the cross section of the M5, allowing access to markets north, east, south and west.
Recruitment
Giving employers access to short-term skills “ By launching Ad Hoc
projects we can offer businesses access to an as yet untapped resource of skilled and experienced workers who can provide support as and when required without the commitment of full employment.”
came self-employed taking on a variety of different roles from property development projects to freelance commissions and even a place on the board of trustees at Bristol Zoo.
She thought that there were other businesses that would benefit not only from access to professional experienced contractors but also from a service that would manage these additional projects. She said: “We hear a huge amount about these new ways of working, the increase in levels of self-employment, the rise of the age of ‘no retirement’ and the desire for a better work life balance. “However, it occurred to me having been on both sides of the fence, as
self-employed worker and an employer, there was no obvious way of seeking out this type of employment, nor a way for employers to find these people, many of whom are highly qualified and capable individuals. “By launching Ad Hoc Projects we can offer businesses access to an as yet untapped resource of skilled and experienced workers who can provide support as and when required without the commitment of full employment. “The fact that we also project manage the whole process also means that businesses are free to continue to focus on their day to day activities confident that their additional workloads are being managed.” The type of projects could range from managing office moves or embedding of new systems to conducting research projects and overseeing new business development and covering long-term sickness or maternity absences. Claire, who is 52 today, believes the service could also help smaller businesses which need to access specific skills to help develop but do not wish to add to their permanent workforce.
High growth
SETsquared firms net billions for economy ● HIGH-tech start-ups incubated by SETsquared will have contributed an estimated £11 billion in GVA (Gross Value Added) to the UK economy by 2025. New research indicates that companies that have benefited from incubation by SETsquared, the enterprise partnership of the universities of Bath, Bristol, Exeter, Southampton and Surrey, have already contributed some £3.8 billion in GVA over the last 12 years and are likely to contribute a further £7.3 billion in the decade to come. The study, commissioned from Warwick Economics & Development, is based on the 1,041 companies that have already benefited from SETsquared services in their formative years and excludes any further economic impact from companies that SETsquared is set to incubate in the future. Nick Sturge, director at the Bristol SETsquared Centre in the Engine Shed, said: “This economic impact study shows the profound effect that companies incubated by SETsquared have had on the region’s economy. “We’re looking towards the future now and are dedicated to providing the opportunities and resources to continue the growth for the next 10 years. We have marked the first anniversary of the opening of our new home, Engine Shed, which itself has generated significant growth locally.” The study also showed firms incubated by SETsquared have created 9,000 jobs since 2002 and that this number is estimated to increase to 14,200 by 2025.
SMEs
Downing Street date for small businesses ● THE founder of an IT company was among 100 small businessmen and women to visit Downing Street to mark Small Business Saturday. Bill Quinn owner of FlexableIT, a Portishead-based cloud IT company focusing on customer relationship management for small businesses, attended the event hosted by the Chancellor George Osborne. Bill said the event and campaign, which encouraged people to use small businesses, had been positive for companies such as his. He added: “Small businesses are critical to our economy. They account for 99.3 per cent of all private sector businesses in the UK, 47.8 per cent of private sector employment and 33.2 per cent of private sector turnover.”
Get in touch 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
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BUSINESSWOMAN Claire Ladkin has launched a new service aimed at providing businesses with access to the growing pool of skilled and experienced self-employed workers in the city. With self-employment at an all time high – 4.6 million people across the UK now work for themselves – Claire spotted a gap in the market to launch a service which would match highly skilled individuals who wanted to work on an ad hoc basis with businesses wishing to tap in to this growing workforce for shortterm projects. She created Ad Hoc Projects recognising that while employers want access to skilled short-term resource, they often don’t have the time to properly manage the people or project. The Clifton-based firm aims to manage the process for them, from helping them to work out what they need through to finding the candidate and overseeing delivery. Claire’s inspiration was her own desire to find flexible employment that worked around her busy life. After years in the advertising industry and a career break, she be-
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Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Shaun in the City
We’re counting on sheep! Firms flock to sponsor our n-ewe trail
After the cracking success of Gromit Unleashed, businesses are queuing up to sponsor next year’s Shaun in the City. The Bristol trail featuring painted sculptures of Aardman favourite Shaun the Sheep is fully booked and now local firms are sponsoring the London event too. The Bristol Post found out why
Burges Salmon Law firm Burges Salmon is based in Bristol but has a strong London presence too, so doubling up made sense. Managing partner Peter Morris said: “This is another fantastic chance for us to work with an award-winning charity and also the internationally-renowned global Shaun the Sheep brand on the world’s first Shaun in the City trail. “Becoming a sponsor for both London and Bristol trails is an opportunity we simply couldn’t resist.” “We can’t wait to see how our staff will get behind the trails, knowing the efforts they made to support Gromit Unleashed. We are delighted to continue our support for Bristol Children’s Hospital and to extend it to hospitals across the UK.”
Natracare
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“You can’t help but get excited about Shaun in the City,” according to Jessica Gitsham of organic feminine hygiene product manufacturer Natracare. “It brings a smile to everyone’s face.” The firm is sponsoring sculptures in Bristol and London. As a business that reaches customers globally, not just locally, it made sense to get involved in the London trail too. The Bradley Stoke-based company was involved in Gromit Unleashed and felt it so worthwhile, they wanted to take part this time too. Bosses believe it is good for brand awareness and adding London just increases that. Jessica added: “The trails unite fun and adventure whilst celebrating art, landscapes and history. The best
thing of all is that you are raising money for an incredibly worthy cause. As a brand why wouldn’t we want to be involved?”
Yankee Candle As a global brand, Yankee Candle is selling and distributing its scented candles around the world from its Avonmouth base. The business is proud of its local links so the sponsorship is a good fit. Melanie Stack, President of Yankee Candle, Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “We have supported Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal for the last three years and to date have raised over £20,000 for the charity. “Having seen the success of Gromit Unleashed last year we are delighted to be involved again and can’t wait to see who will be designing both our London and Bristol giant Shaun sculptures. “As we are based in Bristol, it is important for us to support local charities and help raise as much money and awareness as possible for a hospital close to our hearts.”
● From left, Susie Hewson, of Natracare, Jamie Cameron, of Burges Salmon, Andrew O'Donnell, of EY, Gary Webb, from Yankee Candle, and Ilke Barr, TLT, with one of the Shaun the sheep models in The Galleries shopping centre to many hearts and to further our purpose in ‘Building a Better Working World’.”
TLT TLT is another law firm to grow out of Bristol but with big ambitions nationally. The firm was a sponsor of the Gromit Unleashed trail in Bristol and this time is backing the new trail in London, perhaps with an eye on the fir m’s desire to be seen as a national player. Managing partner David Pester said: “Shaun in the City will be a fantastic art trail, celebrating and reinforcing on an international scale Bristol’s reputation as a hub for creative businesses and talent. “We are delighted to be involved and help raise money for children in hospitals across the UK.”
EY Accountants and business advisers EY is another firm with a big Bristol presence in both cities. The firm sees the sponsorship as a way for a big company to engage in the community locally. Andrew O’Donnell, EY’s real estate leader – UK & Ireland, said: “Shaun in the City is a hugely exciting event and one EY is proud to support. “Through our sponsorship we have a great opportunity for our people to be involved in the arts, a cause close
● Shaun the Sheep models will be on show around Bristol
● Nick Park, creator of Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep, with some of the sculptures in London
● There are a few sponsorship places remaining for the London trail. Bristol companies interested should contact Helen Haskell to find out more at helen@ shauninthecity.org.uk.
● Artist Laura Cramer works on one of the sheep models
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
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Family business
Retail
Gavin Thompson
The Galleries lifted as six new stores open
Bright spark Son running current affairs as electrical firm expands Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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EIL Way was about 10 or 11 years old when his electrician dad Jeff formed a new business after buying a small firm with just two employees. Now as the business celebrates its 25th anniversary, it employs more than 100 people from its Knowle base with a turnover approaching £9 million. Neil remembers meetings around the kitchen table in the family home in Whitchurch as Jeff and wife Jean slowly grew the business. Now 35, after a career in the RAF, he runs Jeff Way Electrical Services, having joined in 207 and taken over as managing director two years ago. Jeff, 62, and Jean, 61, remain as directors and Neil’s older brother Chris, 37, has recently joined as finance director. “It’s brilliant to have Mum and Dad around with all their experience,” said Neil. “Dad’s very relaxed now. He now comes, asks how everything’s going and then goes off to play golf.” The business has grown from a turnover of £1.7 million when Neil joined to £9 million this year.
● Neil Way, managing director of Jeff Way Electricals, with the firm’s apprentices A large part of its work is fitting out new-build homes. “Western Power runs a mains cable to the house and then we do everything from there on,” Neil said. “The TV point, security, wiring, every cable in the home is laid by us.” The firm has worked on major housing schemes such as Wapping Wharf in the city centre, for Taylor Wimpey in Emersons Green and several projects for Crest Nicholson, including its sites in Portishead. The next big project for the builder is Electricity House, the former
“ Dad’s very relaxed now. He now comes, asks how everything’s going and then goes off to play golf.” SWEB HQ in the Centre. The other key strand of the business is a social housing contract for Bristol City Council, carrying out the electrical work on kitchen and bath-
room refurbishments. The work helped sustain the company during the recession, and now that house building is again on the rise things are looking good for continued expansion. At the heart of the company’s growth is its investment in skills. The firm has trained 50 apprentices, with many still on board. “We now have former apprentices training new apprentices,” said Neil. “We look to have these people for 25 years not just two-year apprenticeships so we train them to be the best.”
● SIX new shops will be open in time for Christmas at city centre shopping centre The Galleries, creating around 100 jobs. Peacocks, the fashion brand, returns to Bristol taking 9,000 sq ft in the centre of the ground floor of the centre in Broadmead, whilst Bargain Buys, owned by Poundworld, moves into the nearby 16,000 sq ft anchor store. F. Hinds, one of the UK’s biggest independent national jewellers, has launched its 112th UK store on the ground floor. Culture and fashion store Pulp, which has retail giant Sports Direct as its principal shareholder, has just opened on the top floor. Ladies fashion store West Coast will be located next to Peacocks while fancy dress shop Party Magic opened recently. Centre manager Colin Land said: “These are exciting times for The Galleries and we are delighted to welcome the six new top-notch retailers to the centre. We are particularly pleased that they will all be trading in time for Christmas thereby adding to the existing variety of shops and food outlets.”
Technology
Sensor firm driving forward project for driverless cars A BRISTOL firm is at the heart of a project to introduce driverless cars to the city. Funding for the trial was announced in last week’s Autumn Statement from Chancellor George Osborne with Bristol City Council, Engineering firm Atkins, South Gloucestershire Council, Williams F1 and the two Bristol universities involved in the consortium, which has been called Venturer. Small business Fusion is also part of the team. The firm, based at the Engine Shed, developed technology to warn bus drivers when cyclists were approaching in their blind spot. Similar sensor technology and advanced processing systems will play a key part in the car trials over the next 18-36 months. Fusion chief executive Jim Hutchinson, pictured, said: “We are thrilled that Bristol has been selected by Innovate UK to become a
test city for driverless cars, and we are delighted to be the ones providing the situational awareness and collision avoidance technology for it. “Fusion Processing’s advanced sensor and processing systems will enable world leading vehicle capability, and ensure that Bristol, and the UK as a whole, remains at the forefront of this transformational technology. “Thanks to the funding the Venturer consortium will receive, our vision will soon become a reality on the streets of our home city, which makes us extremely proud. “It’s a great result for Bristol, and a huge step forward for the future of autonomous vehicles.” The firm’s CycleEye technology is currently undergoing trials with First Bus and Transport for London.
Survey
Confidence high in city as general election looms
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Audience Response based on actual performance over the last 12 months – reveals a two point rise from 120 points to 122. The results paint a picture of positivity and growth as Bristol gears up for the 2015 election. The report reveals 63 per cent of the city’s businesses saw an increase in revenues in the past year, and 56 per cent saw profits rise. New ways of working are helping businesses to grow. Over a fifth of Bristol businesses (22 per cent) increased their flexible working options for staff over the past 12 months.
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● BRISTOL businesses are heading into election year with confidence higher than ever, according to the yearly business confidence report from Regus, the global workplace provider. Based on the views of 150 business owners and senior managers in the city, the ninth edition of the Regus Business Confidence Index (BCI) – which is heavily
Part of the Local World group
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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
The Big Interview
CYCLING CHIEF TURNS WHEELS OF CHANGE It’s hard to think of an organisation more establishment than the city’s Merchant Venturers. But as new master, Chris Curling is bringing a streak of disrespect for authority to the organisation, as the Bristol Post discovers
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HEN he became chief executive at law firm Osborne Clarke, a photo of Chris Curling on his bike appeared on the business pages of the national press. In the 1990s, this informal image of Chris pedalling down Queen Charlotte Street in Bristol with his beard, swept back hair and big smile wasn’t what you expected of a corporate finance lawyer taking charge of a commercial law firm. In the 15 years that followed, with Chris at the helm as chief executive or executive chairman, Osborne Clarke was transformed from a provincial firm into a fast-growing national and international law firm with offices across Europe and in Silicon Valley and a distinctive, entrepreneurial profile. The photo wasn’t just a publicity stunt. For Chris it was an important statement of who he was. “Immersion in the turbulence of university life in the early 1970s and subsequent extensive world travel gave me a set of values based around a healthy contempt for authority and concern to improve the human condition which have driven my life ever since.” Chris’s engagement in the environmental agenda is an example of this. On his arrival in Bristol with his wife in the mid 1970s, one of his first activities was to engage with the cycling community. In 1977 he was involved in the formation of Sustrans. “I invented the name,” he says grinning. Today Chris is chairman of this leading national charity with annual turnover which has approached £80 million, 650 employees, and its National Cycle Network used by over three million people every year. More recently he has been chairman of the Bristol-based international biodiversity conservation charity Wildscreen and of the External Advisory Board of Bristol University’s environmental research centre, the Cabot Institute. The coincidence of Chris’s year as Master with Bristol as the European Green Capital of Europe is a happy one. The society is providing some financial support to the Green Capital programme and has offered the Merchants’ Hall as a venue for some Green Capital events. Chris has a range of business and charitable interests. He is chairman of a listed employee benefits business and is a non-executive director of Bristol Water, where he has worked to promote the environmental agenda into the mainstream strategy of the company. He is also involved with a technology start-up business in London. He was one of the first trustees of Quartet Community Foundation, where he is now a
Vice President. He recently served for six years on the governing body of the University of Bristol. Chris has been a Merchant Venturer for 10 years. But his indirect connection with the Merchant Venturers goes back further. Osborne Clarke provided the Society’s legal adviser, the clerk, for 220 years, from the 18th century until recently. Chris was surprised to be invited to join the society. He did not think that he fitted the Merchant Venturers’ mould, but he found that the external perception of the Society was quite different from the reality. “The society is an exceptionally diverse group of some 75 men and women from many different backgrounds, who have been prominent in business or community life across the West Country and who have ambition to work to make a real difference for the benefit of the community.” “Ten years ago there was a mismatch between what the organisation was achieving and the way it was perceived by the local community. Much has been improved since then, but there is still more to be done.” Chris aims to address this issue of the community’s perception of the Merchants as a core objective in his year as Master. “We will promote the work of the Society across the West Country by continuing to engage people more widely in our activities – both by inviting them to work with us and by informing them about what we do.” Chris’s main contribution to the society’s
Vital statistics Name: Chris Curling Age: 64 Place of birth: Billericay, Essex School: Brentwood School, Brentwood, Essex First job: Delivering post in the Christmas school holidays! Hero or inspiration: I’m not a celebrity follower, but I have some unsung world-class heroes and inspirations among my close family and friends.
work to date has been in education. As chairman of the governors of Merchants’ Academy he has witnessed first-hand the importance of ensuring that students are particularly well prepared for the workplace when they leave school. “The pre-condition for this must be the achievement of high standards of numeracy, literacy and IT skills,” he says. “But just as importantly employers want young people who have the attitudes, characters and behaviours needed for success in life and work. “The UK business community widely regards these aspects as significantly wanting in school and university leavers.” Reflecting this, his second priority for his year as Master is to: “Establish and launch a powerful and effective programme for our Merchant schools which will ensure that pupils are best prepared for the workplace.” The society has an ambitious agenda for 2015. In its role as a key contributor to the
“ Immersion in the turbulence of university life in the early 1970s, and subsequent extensive world travel, gave me a set of values based around a healthy contempt for authority and concern to improve the human condition which have driven my life ever since.
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
My downtime Perfect weekend: A 3-way division between family time, out round the country lanes and tracks on my bike with my wife, and solitary time in my vegetable garden Favourite book, film, TV show: Book: Eastern Approaches by Fitzroy Maclean: what a varied, adventurous and purposeful life he led! Film: Notting Hill (below) is by a country mile the most enjoyable film ever made! What are your hobbies (if any)? Apart from cycling and veggie gardening I enjoy skiing in the winter and mountaineering in the summer.
My working day You wake up at: 6.50am: every morning! Breakfast: Grapefruit and muesli Start work at: 8.15am Typical working day There is no such thing as a typical working day! My life revolves around juggling a series of business interests – an employee benefits business of which I am chairman, Bristol Water where I am a non-executive director, a technology startup in London, some consultancy work – with my voluntary sector interests: chairmanship of the cycling and walking charity Sustrans, until recently chairmanship of the governors of Merchants’ Academy, now Master of the Society of Merchant Venturers. Boredom is a concept unknown to me! Home time: I stop work most evenings at 9.59pm precisely so that I can watch the news at Ten Do you take work home/attend evening functions? Yes: masses of both.
Start up
We’re both passionate about creating dynamic branding AN entrepreneur has started a branding business with the help of a £9,000 start-up loan. Brand agent Matthew Spurr, who is 28 and lives in St Anne’s, Bristol, has teamed up with Plymouth-based web designer Daniel Kempe to start Infinite Visions. With two government-backed Start Up loans from SWIG Finance of £4,500 each, the pair have worked from home offices until now but have taken offices in Whitefriars in the city centre. With a portfolio which includes international clients, the company is looking to expand its footprint in the South West, offering its expertise in creating memorable and effective corporate identities. The pair met when Mr Spurr’s previous branding business required high-level website design work. Mr Spurr said: “We worked together for about three years and Dan has always done excellent work – it’s reflected in his rank as a top seller on PeoplePerHour for branding. “A company’s brand is so much more than just a logo. It encompasses everything from the colours used, the message delivered, the feeling a user gets when they interact with your company, the language used in written communication, the style of font and even the kind of material your business cards are made from. “Dan and I are both passionate about entrepreneurism and helping other businesses succeed, with the first step often being a clear and dynamic brand. We both share a hunger for business success and we have always worked very well together.” Mr Spurr has developed a wide skill-set in business, having launched a public relations company called PokerFacePR Ltd soon after leaving university.
● From left, Dan Kempe and Matthew Spur of Infinite Visions He said: “All the work I did on the business was completely self-taught and I learned a lot about business on the hoof, and very quickly. “Following that, I have honed my business skills across different sectors, including several jobs working for other companies on projects around the world. “Now I’m settled on making this venture a success and I’m excited about the prospects for Infinite Visions.” Mark Thayre, fund manager at SWIG, was impressed with the commitment and drive of the two entrepreneurs. He said: “Matthew and Daniel are clearly ambitious and have the skills and experience to make the business succeed. “We were pleased to be able to support them with this venture and wish them every success in the future.”
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Coming soon in January 2015
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improvement of education standards in Greater Bristol, the Society is in the process of a step change in the growing network of schools for which it has responsibility. It is creating The Venturers’ Trust to be the focus of the society’s activity in education and to be a beacon of educational excellence. In its work in care of the elderly, the development of a new dementia wing at Katherine House beside the Downs should be completed in 2015 and work will continue on the expansion of the Society’s almshouse provision and the planning of additional care at the Cote site. The society’s engagement with the local social business community is growing. The society is in discussion with others to create a Community Interest Company to be a funding source for social businesses, based on the principle of sustainable local impact. In addition the Merchant Venturers are providing mentoring support to some social businesses. In its work as a custodian of the Downs, the society is working with Avon Wildlife Trust in its plan to breathe new life into the Gorge by opening up public access and improving the stewardship of this important wildlife habitat. A further priority for 2015 is to find and appoint a successor to Richard Morris, the society’s treasurer and de facto chief executive, who will retire in November 2015 after 12 years’ outstanding service to the society. “This programme reflects a dynamic, progressive organisation with a passion and energy to deliver significant benefit widely across the Greater Bristol community,” says Chris.
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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Focus on start-ups | Sponsored by THEME SPONSOR’S NAME HERE.
Business growth: Hinkley Point C
NUCLEAR REACTION CALLS TO SEIZE It’s not every day a £25-billion project is built on your doorstep. But if Bristol companies want to take advantage of the planned new nuclear reactor just down the M5, they can’t hang around, as Gavin Thompson found out
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T takes a long time to build a nuclear reactor. Ten years or thereabouts. And it seems to have taken that long to get to the point where we can reasonably confident it will even happen at Hinkley Point in Somerset. There are still some doubts. EDF is yet to finally commit and financial challenges at one of its partners, Areva, have raised questions. But in all likelihood the project will be confirmed early in the new year. For Bristol businesses, that opens a raft of opportunities. James Durie, right, executive director of Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Initiative at Business West, said: “With Hinkley now moving forward we are working hand in glove with Somerset Chamber and EDF, the main contractors, to make sure all businesses in Bristol and the West of England area including our 18,000 members are aware of the opportunities that Hinkley brings. “At the moment so-called work packages are being put together which identify supply chain requirements. We are then identifying Bristol companies in relevant sectors who fit the bill and will be communicating with them both directly as well as through the media such as the Bristol Post. “Working with our local enterprise partnerships we will ensure any development needs, including skills shortages, are properly addressed. There are already many businesses across a range of business sectors talking to us such as for example some of the local transport companies to ensure they are best positioned to bid for and win business from this major infrastructure project.” The scale of the project is a challenge to get your head around. But the opportunities are not limited to big companies. There are more obvious openings for some of Bristol’s smaller advanced engineering firms. To that end, the Manufacturing Advisory Service has joined forces with the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre to roll out the Fit
For Nuclear (F4N) programme, helping manufacturers understand the nature of the opportunities opening up and preparing them to take advantage of them. John Ruddleston, Fit For Nuclear Assessor in the South West, said: “There is great potential for advanced manufacturing SMEs in the South West to build business in the civil nuclear sector. Following approval for Hinkley Point, we can expect these opportunities to increase in new build, as well as in decommissioning and existing station maintenance.” The obvious follow-on is the proposal for a new reactor to replace the one being decommissioned in Oldbury, South Gloucestershire, which is still a few years further away from happening and therefore stretches the potential local interest in the sector. John, below, added: “Working side-by side with the Nuclear AMRC and the Hinkley Supply Chain Team, managed by the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, we are helping more companies access support through F4N, which enables companies to measure their capabilities against industry standards and helps them bridge gaps to meet requirements. “The first new nuclear plant is likely to come online in the 2020s, but orders for the bulk of plant and services are expected to start developing from next year. Companies should also look to position themselves to supply into the decommissioning market, which is a very current opportunity. It could also help SMEs compete when the new build contracts are released. Now is the time for manufacturers to act.” The supply chain programme has been set up to favour local companies, which in this case means Somerset – including North Somerset. There are 1,575 Somerset businesses already registered on the supply chain portal. More than 93 local businesses have so far benefited from work totalling £19 million in value. When there isn’t a Somerset supplier, the net is cast wider and as the nearest major city Bristol and the
companies within it are sure to play a big part. A further 65 regional businesses have already benefited from work valued at £34 million. The opportunities stretch far beyond the nuclear industry. Andrew Smith, relationship director at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, says Hinkley Point C will create many supply chain opportunities for local and regional businesses. “A supply chain consists of many parties, which are involved directly or indirectly in the developments at Hinkley,” he said. “Supply chains do
not only include manufacturers and construction works, but also those who can provide a variety of services from transport, to storage, to retail.” Business people need to be planning now. Not least because any expansion required to scale-up for work is likely to involve cost. Which means fully exploring the funding options available, be it bank loans and overdrafts
or alternative routes from invoice financing to pension-led funding. Andrew said: “Whether Bristol firms are looking at Hinkley Point C’s supply chain opportunities or investing in their own business growth, it’s important they explore all the funding opportunities and support available to them.” Thousands of workers will be on site at any one time, which is an
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
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Expert eye Robin Goddard
WEALTH OF OPPORTUNITIES “ It’s like having a small army. You’ve got to feed them, house them and get them in and out. David Coombes
● Above and below, artist’s impressions of the planned offices
Offices well-placed to meet demand Case study
opportunity in itself. David Coombes, left, manager of Logistics Job Shop and chairman of the distribution sector group at the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “It’s like having a small army. “You’ve got to feed them, house them and get them in and out. “There are going to be opportunities for businesses to play a part in that transportation operation, including SMEs.” The numbers involved also mean businesses in other sectors need to be
thinking about how to hang onto their workers. “If someone can earn five times more retraining as a concrete sprayer at Hinkley, why wouldn’t they,” said David. “Companies need to be thinking now about how they will retain staff and not just react in six months’ time when things have really got under way on the site.” It may seem like a new nuclear reactor at Hinkley Point is a long time a way. But the time for business to act on the opportunities it presents, is now.
● A NEW office development expected to capitalise on demand from the Hinkley Point nuclear plant has been granted approval by the local authority. Enterprise House is a proposed a new headquarters office building fit to accommodate more 250 people on the Weston Gateway site in the Junction 21 enterprise area. The park has already attracted Knightstone Housing, who moved to a new headquarters building at the end of 2013, and Green King who opened A Hungry Horse public house earlier this year. The site is close to the M5 and next to Worle Parkway mainline station and the building should be ready by late 2015. Gemma Day, of developer Dowlas, said: “Following the announcement of the
go-ahead for the new £24.5 billion nuclear power station at Hinkley Point, we anticipate strong demand from companies associated with the project due to the convenience of the location in respect of the motorway and the rest of the country, and due to the quality of the development.” Peter Barrett, associate director of office agency at commercial property consultants Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH), said: “Once Enterprise House is largely let, the plan is to roll out additional phases in short order.” Natalie Bennett, from Hartnell Taylor Cook LLP, said. “The development at Hinkley Point will give the economy of Weston Super Mare a major boost and it is important our clients are able to provide high quality business premises such as Enterprise House to satisfy this demand over the next two years.”
Regional Director, Close Brothers Invoice Finance www.closeinvoice.co.uk 0808 231 4641
Invoice finance can unlock potential in your company
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HE figures surrounding the construction of Hinkley Point C are compelling. Predicted to be the largest construction site in Europe and estimated to cost over £16 billion, the project will create 25,000 employment opportunities in the region which will be sustained for almost a decade. The economic benefits in the community will be significant, particularly for businesses. As part of the process, EDF Energy, the company behind the facility, has placed a strong emphasis on creating a local supply chain, partnering with the Somerset Chamber of Commerce to offer firms the opportunity to become part of the process and fulfil major contracts. 1,500 businesses of all sizes, representing a wide range of professions and services, have already registered their interest with the chamber, but irrespective of their role there are challenges they all may face. Financially, firms will need to ensure that they have access to adequate funding and working capital to take full advantage of the opportunity Hinkley Point C represents. Many will be required to expand and upscale their resources including their workforce, equipment and vehicles. For others, it will be a matter of accessing finance quickly to ensure they meet deadlines and targets. The ability to cover these costs will be vital but even now there are existing financial concerns among businesses in the South West. The latest Close Brothers Business Barometer revealed that a quarter of firms in the region believe restricted cash flow is their biggest barrier to business growth, while a further 38 per cent cite an ability to invest in staff or equipment. They find there is often a difficult balance between managing a healthy cash flow and facilitating expansion. Instead businesses require a source of funding that will allow them to maintain their working capital as they grow. One solution is invoice finance, a form of funding that allows businesses to access the cash tied up in their unpaid invoices. Firms send the outstanding invoice to a finance provider such as Close Brothers and in return they receive an advance percentage of the money within 24 hours. The remaining balance is then released upon customer payment, minus an agreed service fee. Invoice finance uses cash that is owed to create a flexible line of finance that the company can then reinvest in their expansion and strategic objectives, whether it’s recruitment or the purchase of new machinery and property. It could add enhanced stability to the cash flow of your business, but crucially, it is bespoke. Invoice finance is tailored to your needs, regardless of your company size, and designed to grow as your business grows. It can allow you to unlock further potential in your company and as the region prepares for Hinkley Point C, there may never be a more important time to reinvest and generate some power of your own.
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Special feature
A CUSTOMER’S STORY
A STRONG BANKING RELATIONSHIP IS IMPORTANT Gina Fucci is Managing Director of Films at 59 based in Bristol. Here she explains why RBS is their bank of choice...
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ilms at 59 is an equipment hire and post-production company based in Bristol. They have 135 employees and provide services to over 1000 programme-makers globally. In their 25 year history, they have serviced the production of 50,000 hours of content for TV, film and the internet. Consumers are searching for more and more content on ever-diverse sources – televisions, tablets, phones, large screens in cinemas and even images projected onto buildings. Because of this, Films at 59 are ever-ready to adapt to ensure they can provide the latest technology and skills to creative programme makers. Managing director Gina Fucci says: “This means we will have to continue our investment in our client relationships and partnerships; our people and their training; in new equipment; in new sales
areas and in new ways of working.” Gina Fucci says that RBS is the company’s ‘bank of choice’ and a bank they want to stay with. She says: “We want to make sure we can support future investment and purchases that will develop and grow our business for our clients. Having the right physical spaces, the right virtual spaces via highspeed networks and the right tools that help support producer creativity are essential to our future success. “The trick to our success will be balancing new developments and lower budgets. Moving forward, it is essential to have a strong banking relationship that will enable us to invest in productions that are streaming on the internet and that will enable us to adapt and grow the business in response to various technological and philosophical changes that cannot even be predicted.”
Gina Fucci expands on this need to be ever-ready, saying: “Every day we are asking questions like ‘what is the next YouTube, Netflix or Hula which will drive producers to make more shows?’We have to be ready to service new markets created by new ways of consuming media.” But that’s not all – producers, Gina says, tell stories that need to be showcased and it’s Films at 59’s role to support these producers. “To remain competitive, we have to be steps ahead in offering sound technical advice and services which are creative and cost effective.” She continued: “We have to provide tools that capture good quality video/ sound files, move data quickly and efficiently, allow us to creatively manipulate sound and images, transcode digital formats to be used on many
platforms - all at an affordable price.” Now, as Films at 59 looks to the future, Gina Fucci reiterates the importance of a strong banking relationship. She says: “When people talk about ‘growth’, it’s about getting the most from the tools that we already own, as well as acquiring new equipment, people and businesses. “With a strong banking relationship, where information flow is frequent and reliable, we are able to consider every opportunity that comes our way. In a business world that is everchanging and is reliant on us being ‘many steps’ ahead, our relationship with RBS will help support our everchanging business plans in order for us to be able to deliver to our customers, who are the future for our success.” www.filmsat59.com
MAKING CONNECTIONS
RBS is committed to supporting, mentoring and engaging in continual dialogue with its SME customers, whatever the stage of their business.
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Here, Steve Wilson, Director of Corporate Banking in Bristol, explains why working closely with customers is so important to RBS now and as the bank progresses in its journey to become Williams & Glyn. Steve Wilson, Director of Corporate Banking in Bristol, says: “Current economic conditions present many opportunities, as well as obstacles, for SMEs but, by making the right banking partnership, businesses can achieve their goals and take advantage of a wide range of expertise. “We are delighted to work in partnership with Films at 59 which is an exciting and innovative local business with a clear growth strategy. We believe the strength of our relationship has been formed by us all sitting down together to gain a clear understanding of their business ambitions and how we
We focus on making banking simple, enabling customers to concentrate on what they do best - running their own businesses can help support their success. “By working closely with our customers in this way we can share their vision and add value by offering our experience and contacts from across the region. We have a powerful network of local contacts which can offer guidance on a vast array of
business subjects, as well as introducing a business to new working relationships. “We are focused on making banking simple and straightforward, enabling customers to concentrate on what they do best - running their own businesses. This ethos will remain as we embark on our journey to become Williams & Glyn, keeping customers at the heart of everything. “We know the economy can only keep growing if we keep investing in the future and our message is clear - we want to support business growth across the diverse and rich business communities of Bristol.” ● RBS England and Wales is to be the future Williams & Glyn, a new bank for both personal and business customers with a particular strength in supporting SMEs.
Connect to business insight and opportunities with RBS. Find out more at www.rbsbusinessconnections.co.uk
WHO TO CALL ON YOUR DOORSTEP Director of Corporate Banking Steve Wilson 07919 210737 steve.j.wilson@rbs.co.uk RBS Mentor rbsmentor.co.uk Richard James 07748 887 939 Lombard (Asset Finance) lombard.co.uk Phil Ollerenshaw 07876 390 916 Private Banking Dominic Chadwick 07789 481 378 Business Banking Gavin Wintrell, Business Manager 07920 502 685 RBS Invoice Finance rbsif.co.uk Ian Hussey, Relationship Manager 0117 9544378 or 07766 206 003 External RBS contacts Bristol Chamber of Commerce businesswest.co.uk/ bristol 01275 373 373 Gregg Latchams Limited 7 Queen Square, Bristol BS1 4JE 01179 069 407
www.bristolpost.co.uk
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
In pictures West of England Carbon Challenge awards
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Business diary IoD Wednesday @6 Christmas Special: Join the IoD Bristol Committee for drinks at the last Wednesday @ 6 of the year tonight. Hosted at Smith & Williamson, Portwall Place. The FSB Business Breakfast: Network with fellow SME businesses in a friendly, informal way on Tuesday, December 16. The room at Bristol Golf Club, Almondsbury, is arranged so everyone sits on a table of 10 with a dedicated host. Each guest then has two minutes to promote their business before moving onto a second table. Book via eventbrite.
● From left, Chris Dunford (At-Bristol), Lucy Pope (At-Bristol), Zac Nicholson (Alec French Architects), Rob Delius (Stride Treglown), Susie Hewson (Natracare), Steve Lowe (Natracare), Hayley Williams (Stride Treglown), Alex Nasmyth (Burges Salmon), Elsa Hadley (Burges Salmon), Anne Barr (Pukka Herbs), Magdalena Arikan (Berwick Lodge), Sarah Arikan (Berwick Lodge), Micaela Basford (Bath & North East Somerset Council) and Cllr David Martin (Bath and North East Somerset Council)
Awards for those who have met eco challenge
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USINESSES that have made big contributions to sustainability in 2014 have been celebrated. The annual West of England Carbon Challenge awards took place at the offices of European Green Capital sponsor Burges Salmon. At-Bristol was crowned All Round Carbon Champions in recognition of its continuous commitment to reducing its carbon footprint over several years. Berwick Lodge, Bath and North East Somerset Council, Alec French
Architects, Burges Salmon itself, Stride Treglown, Pukka Herbs and Bodywise also received awards. Forum for the Future launched the awards in 2009 and handed the baton to Low Carbon South West in 2012. Over the last five years the challenge has provided local businesses with an opportunity to show their contribution to the creation of a sustainable future for the region. Low Carbon South West took the opportunity to announce the Go Green initiative, first revealed in these pages last month.
Network director Amy Robinson said: “Each and every challenge participant deserves recognition for their achievements. This year’s WECC awards were the last, but as Bristol’s business community prepares for the city’s year as European Green Capital 2015, Low Carbon South West is joining forces with Business West to present Go Green. “Go Green is a more accessible and ambitious way for businesses and organisations to become more sustainable and it is open to businesses of all sizes in all sectors.
“We want to help businesses learn from each other’s experiences, enabling them to cut their carbon impact, save money and improve the environment. “Bristol is a world-leading hub for sustainable technology design and, as tonight’s winners have shown, businesses of all shapes and sizes are benefiting from being in this innovative and imaginative place. “The more businesses that Go Green in 2015, the better it is for Bristol’s economy and environment.”
Bristol Connected: The Bristol Post Business networking event is to be held from noon to 2pm on Tuesday, December 16 at 10 Templeback. Informal networking with guest speakers. Register via eventbrite. Business West Chamber Networking Breakfast: Meet like-minded business people. Arrive at Bordeaux Quay on January 8 from 7.30am for 8.10am breakfast. Event finished by 9.30am. Book via businesswest.co.uk/events. LEP Digital – driving results through social media: Simply signing up to Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn is not enough, you need to align your social media activity with your business strategy to drive results. 9.30am-3.30pm on January 22, at the BAWA Centre, Filton. Bristol PA Network: A professional forum where you can find inspiration, develop your skills and meet fellow PAs. Each meeting includes elements of learning and development, inspirational speakers and networking. January 25, 6pm at Hotel du Vin. Book via eventbrite. Western Daily Press Business Guide launch: A breakfast event to mark the annual must-read Western Daily Press guide. Save the date, January 29. Venue and time to be confirmed.
● From left, Jenny Foster, Bristol and South West Fairtrade Co-ordinator, presenting Elsa Hadley and Alex Nasmyth of Burges Salmon with the Best Company (over 250 employees) award
● From Left, Zoe Sear, Director of Marketing and Communications Bristol 2015 Ltd, presenting Chris Dunford and Lucy Pope of At-Bristol Science Centre with the All-Round Carbon Champion award
GALLERIES GALORE
FOR MORE PICTURES Check out our website at bristolpost.co.uk/business
Start-up Drinks Bristol: UWE Enterprise hosts drinks and informal networking evening at the Engine Shed on Tuesday, February 17 for all those interested in start-ups. Book via eventbrite. Bristol Post and Bath Chronicle Women In Business Awards 2015: The winners will be revealed at a gala awards dinner at the Bristol City Centre Marriott on March 19. To book tickets for the night, visit www.bristolpost.co.uk/ wiba. If you’re talking about the awards on social medial, use #wiba. Business Showcase South West: Two-day showcase of business across the region with exhibition stands and speakers including Gerald Ratner, former Apprentice winner Stella English and Levi Roots. Thursday and Friday, May 14-15 at Colton Hall. Email info@showcase2015.com. 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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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
The back page
Your digest of the week in business
Success
with Burges Salmon. Their arrival follows the appointments earlier this year of Eve Wallace (senior associate) and Zoe Dhenin (solicitor). Head of pensions Richard Knight said: “We are delighted to have grown the team so substantially this year. Our 40 pensions lawyers now act for over 700 pensions clients and our new recruits will help us continue to provide a top quality service and to grow further.”
● When OC Robotics was chosen to feature in the Business is Great festive calendar, the Bristol firm had the perfect candidate to open the door. The firm, based in Filton, builds snake arm robots used to tackle tricky and dangerous tasks in a range of industries including defence and nuclear, so the calendar door was a doddle in comparison. The calendar features 24 diverse and innovative small businesses from across the country.
● Burges Salmon is continuing the expansion of its pensions team
Adam Mallion, pictured, from OC Robotics, said: “The team is very proud of the business we have all built. We are excited to celebrate our successes by being part of the Business is Great advent calendar. Here we join 23 other businesses across the country highlighting the organisations and people doing great things for small businesses, and the government support that has made some of it possible.” All businesses involved in the calendar have received government support or used its services, from help with exporting to new markets and tax relief for innovation, to hiring apprentices to grow their teams. They are backing the advent calendar to let other businesses know about the advice and support available to them. ● The latest trade statistics released by HM Revenue & Customs reveal that in the 12 months to September 2014, annual exports from the South West increased by £116 million to £13.7 billion. The total annual value of exports from the region in the year ending September 2014 rose by 0.9 per cent. The South West witnessed an increase (0.7 per cent) in the number of exporting businesses in the last quarter, with 3,820 active exporters. Machinery, transport equipment and manufactured goods are the key export commodities for the South West. Germany, France and the USA represent the top markets.
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● Warmley brewer Bath Ales has been shortlisted in The Publican Morning Advertiser Awards recognising quality and innovation in the pub trade. Bath Ales is a finalist in the Best Food Offer (2 – 50 sites) as well as Best Operations Team (10-50 sites) categories. In last year’s awards, Bath Ales won the coveted national award for Best Managed Pub Company (2-50 sites). Managing director Robin Couling said: “To be in with a real chance to win such highly-regarded awards for the pub industry is such a great achievement for us and reflects how hard the team work.”
Places ● The next big office development in the Temple Quarter Enterprise
● The Wylde IA party at Bristol’s Avery Wine Vaults; below, from top, Ben St Quintin, Leonie Jacks and Rose Fox Zone has secured planning permission. The £40 million 3 Glass Wharf has been given the go-ahead, subject to sorting out Section 106 agreements – the money which goes back the public purse to support local improvements to roads and other amenities. Salmon Harvester Properties, a joint venture between Salmon Developments and NFU Mutual, has secured approval just as it nears the end of building 2 Glasswharf next door. Three Glasswharf will include 109,255 sq ft (10,150 sq m) of offices with retail and leisure on the ground floor, plus basement car parking. Rorie Henderson, development director at Salmon Harvester Properties, said: “This is fantastic news and we are delighted with how well the planning committee received our application, particularly the design and scope of the building. “Discussions are now under way to finalise the infrastructure and public realm under a 106 agreement and we anticipate a start on site in the second half of next year, with completion scheduled for the first quarter of 2017.” ● Is it air hockey tables in reception, break out igloos or just a nice view? A Bristol business wants to find out what makes a happy workplace and is launching a competition to find the happiest
office in the South West. Workplace and interior design consultancy Wylde IA holding the contest to mark its coming of age as the business turns 18. It launched the competition with a party at Bristol’s Avery Wine Vaults. Director Maxine Bennett says: “The economy is on the up, companies are employing once again and attention is turning to working environments and how best to use the space they have to inspire employees. We want to uncover the most innovative workplaces and look at how these amazing spaces encourage productivity and thinking.” Entrants can tweet pictures of their desks and work spaces @WyldeLife using the hashtag #wyldehappyoffice.
People ● Burges Salmon is continuing the expansion of its pensions team with four new appointments. Crispin Freeman, Charlotte Osmond, Amy Davies and Stacey Yon have joined the practice Crispin joins as a senior associate from Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co. Charlotte trained at Linklaters and joins as a newly qualified solicitor. Amy and Stacey have qualified into the team having completed their training contracts
● Law firm DAC Beachcroft has boosted its intellectual property and technology team by recruiting Andrew Allan-Jones as a partner together with IP associate Kate Loxton. The pair joins from Bond Dickinson where Andrew was a partner having previously been head of IP at legacy firm, Bond Pearce. Bristol partner John Williams said: “We are delighted to welcome lawyers of Andrew and Kate’s expertise and calibre to the firm. They are an excellent addition to our existing capability advising clients across our key sectors on brand and media work.” ● Ashfords LLP welcomes Nicholas Lykke Dahn, right, to its real estate team. He joins the law firm’s Bristol office having previously been at BrookStreet des Roches and Linklaters specialising in commercial real estate and property finance. Partner and head of real estateTim Heal said: “Nicholas’ experience will add valued depth and strength to our team and we look forward to continuing to provide excellent service to our clients.” ● An apprentice from the City of Bristol College has impressed the bosses at one of the city’s leading four-star hotels so much, she’s now been fast-tracked to become a full-time member of staff. Leonie Jacks, is currently studying Business and Administration Level 2 at City of Bristol College while gaining hands on experience at DoubleTree by Hilton, Bristol on Redcliffe Way. Having only started in January, the management now want Leonie to become a permanent team member. Leonie said: “When I started out on my apprenticeship I never really thought that it would lead to a full-time job so soon. I’m absolutely thrilled and can’t wait.” ● Property consultancy Alder King has made two further appointments to its Bristol office to strengthen its residential development and planning teams. Ben St Quintin has joined as a senior surveyor in the residential development team after five years with JLL in Bristol. Ben is the current vice-President of the Bristol Junior Chamber and will assume the role of President in April 2015. Rose Fox has joined Alder King’s planning team as a graduate planner after two years with Crest Nicholson in Bristol. She brings valuable experience in the management and coordination of residential planning applications.
Opinion
Review is welcome, but we’ll be watching Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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HERE were reasons to be cheerful from George Osbor ne’s Autumn Statement last week. Stamp duty reforms make sense for most of us, unless you, like my chiropractor, were among the unlucky number who had completed the day before! An extra £45 million to support companies to get exporting is very welcome. And those considering training young people will be encouraged by the exemption from national insurance contributions for apprentices under 25. But the big news for many was on business rates. The Chancellor announced a full review into the system, something we had been calling for in
these business pages for some months. It is clear to us that the current system is broken. And the pressure for change has been growing. We’ve already seen moves to devolve control of how rates are spent to a local level, one of three aims of our #RealRatesReform campaign. Now the Chancellor has committed to this serious review, which we hope will address the other points – the link to property which deters business growth and the need for a simpler system. The review will report back for the 2016 Budget, which is some way off and means any reforms won’t take effect until 2017. That’s too long to leave a system broken, but it’s better to get it right and only change it once. It will also be fiscally neutral. Not ideal but we all accept the Government doesn’t have money to give away right now. The announcement of the review is a victory of sorts for the Post and others who have been calling for this action. But this is politics. There’s a general election next year and the shape of the new government will affect the shape of whatever finally comes out of the review. All governments have a tendency to push difficult decisions further into the future for someone else to deal with. Well done, Mr Osborne for listening. But we’ll be watching to make sure this is real rates reform.