Business 14 January 2015 by BGSD-cs

SMARTER MOVES

ART OF SELLING

CELEBRATING SUCCESS

From spare room to garage to new offices - page 3

Business thinking behind street art projects – page 5

Still time to enter our Women in Business awards – page 10

bristolpost.co.uk

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JAN

2015

AEROSPACE SPECIAL

FLYING HIGH Airbus enjoyed a ‘landmark year’ in 2014 - but what comes now? See pages 6, 7, 8 & 9

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Construction

Progress in school’s plan for expansion ● CONSTRUCTION firm Integral Build has gone back to the classroom to complete the next stage of The Red Maids' School refurbishment and expansion plans. The oldest independent girls' school in the country is creating two new classrooms in its junior school ready for the new academic year in September. The move is in response to high levels of demand for places and will result in an increase to two classes each in Years 3 and 4, bringing the total number of pupils to 150. The project follows the recently completed £1.8 million refurbishment by Aztec West-based Integral Build of the school's main building, creating new facilities for students, teachers and visitors within the original Edwardian complex. Integral Build divisional director Tim Stringer said: “We were delighted to remain on site for this second project, having got to know the school and its staff well during the main school refurbishment. “Whilst this second stage is very much more straightforward, we still have to ensure that it is business as usual for the current Junior school pupils and staff and create as little disruption as possible.” Head teacher Lisa Brown, added: “The Red Maids' Junior School is a very exciting, stimulating place to learn and I am delighted to be able to share our success with even more girls and their families.” The project is due to be completed in early summer 2015

Survey

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Investors look for ethical choices ● MORE than three quarters (78 per cent) of savers and investors in the South West would like to see their money invested in environmental and social sectors, according to research from the ethical bank Triodos Bank. But when it comes to actual investment plans for the next year, it drops to just 14 per cent who are likely to choose the social investment sector. That, however, is still an increase on last year’s figure of 11 per cent. Triodos’ research reveals ethics have become increasingly important to people. Huw Davies, head of personal banking at Triodos Bank, which is based in Bristol, said: “Since the banking crisis, the ethical practices of banks themselves are under much more scrutiny. Our research shows that only six per cent of those in the South West region considered the ethics of our bank or building society when we first opened our accounts. “Now, more than half (58 per cent )would see this as a key determinant when choosing who to bank with.” He added: “It is probably no great surprise to learn that the paying of huge bonuses is not popular with consumers in the South West. Almost three quarters (74 per cent) say that knowing that their bank doesn’t pay big bonuses would be important now if they were to switch providers.”

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Clothing

How Marj turned her hobby into successful enterprise Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

ARJ Cook developed a passion for distinctive clothes and trinkets while travelling in Asia. What started as a hobby soon became a small business. She would discover treasures and bring them back to sell at market stalls and festivals. Almost 10 years ago, she took the big step of opening a shop in Ludlow, Shropshire and after recently moving to Bristol, Marj has opened another store here. The 42-year-old said: “Bristol was the obvious choice for a second Tiger Lily because of its diverse demographic and creative edge, I am super excited about the future here in the city.” The shop stocks a selection of clothing including the quirky and unique Desigual brand, ethically-made Skunfunk and Komodo. Accessories including bags from vegan brand Matt & Nat, fabulous fake fur and leather bags from Urban Code and unique one-off pieces of gemstone and silver jewellery. The offer seems a perfect fit for Gloucester Road, which boasts dozens of independent stores. It was that vibe that helped draw her to Bristol. “Many of my products are ethically

“ Bristol was the obvious choice for a second Tiger Lily because of its diverse demographic and creative edge Marj Cook

sourced from carefully selected suppliers in the UK and abroad,” added Marj, who has a nine-year-old son. “I have many friends and family in Bristol which is one of my motiv-

ations for moving here. “As well as the fact that Bristol is an exciting, creative and diverse city.” The trader started out selling jewellery and trinkets 20 years ago and is

thrilled that she now has her second store. Tiger Lily opened on Saturday and is currently recruiting part-time staff.

Property management

New division launched as part of expansion A PROPERTY management company in Bristol has launched a new division as part of its expansion. BNS Property Management, which looks after apartment blocks, flats, housing estates and large properties converted for multiple occupation, has launched a new service for retirement homes and sheltered retirement communities. It will maintaining communal areas and provide a 24/7 call out service for any issues. Managing director Andrew Simmonds said: “As a business we have been slowly expanding in the South West and part of this expansion is the move into retirement living. “This is a really exciting area for us as we’ve gained a reputation in the region for being fast to react and very

reliable which is going to be important with our retirement clients. “We’re really looking forward to getting stuck in and making sure we create a nice environment for the residents who live there. “We will be responsible for the upkeep of all communal areas including lounge and dining areas as well as the outdoor spaces. The portfolio will be managed by a team of specialist property managers.” “BNS is very big on community involvement and retirement complexes are little communities of their own. It has been known for management companies to exploit those living in housing structures like this, charging over the odds for services and not completing jobs to a high enough standard. We will ensure the service we provide is

● Cotswold Court at Chipping Sodbury and Andrew Simmonds affordable, transparent and ethical.” Run by brothers Andrew and Ian Simmonds, BNS Property Management is based in Downend and looks after more than 230 blocks in the South West. Andrew added: “In recent years we have been focussing on growing our team and finding the best property managers and maintenance staff in the region while building strong connections with trusted contractors and

suppliers. “We recently rebranded and we have now spread our reach from the Greater Bristol area to Bath, Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Taunton, Yeovil, Cardiff and even Uxbridge and Newbury. “The latest development is the addition of our retirement division and we’ve got some more exciting news about new services coming next year.”

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Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Web design

How Andrew’s brave decision turned out to be a Smarter move Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

IVE years ago Andrew Webley made the decision to leave a good job at a very successful company and start his own business. The move from Hargreaves Lansdown to first the spare room and later his garage in order to be his own boss was a brave one that might have had a few friends scratching their heads. But Andrew hasn’t looked back. As his firm, Smarter Web, celebrates its fifth birthday, it now employs seven people and has passed the landmark of having 500 active websites. The business has grown revenue and profit in each of its five years, something Andrew puts in part down to cost management. “The key is to make sure you get some money saved up because everything takes a little bit longer than you hope,” he said. “Most businesses don’t succeed because they run out of money but you don’t need vast sums to get going, you just need to be very careful about how you spend it. “(Hargreaves Lansdown co-founder) Peter Hargreaves was incredibly careful with money and I learnt that from him.” At first the business focused on off-the shelf build-your-own-website products but couldn’t compete with the volume of some of the bigger competitors, Then Andrew spotted an opportunity in responsive web design – websites that adapt to the size and shape of your screen. The move paid off and the huge rise of mobile and tablet traffic in the life of his business means building responsive sites – which mean you don’t need a different design for mobile, desktop and tablet – is easily the fir m’s most popular service.

#SBS

Dragon’s praise for security company ● A SECURITY company has become the latest local business to win a pat on the back from entrepreneur Theo Paphitis, below. The former Dragon from the BBC TV show Dragon’s Den runs a Small Business Sunday, or #SBS, competition on Twitter each week. Firms are urged to Tweet using the hashtag and he chooses one and re-tweets it to his 459,000 followers on the social media network. Securist won by tweeting about its ethical and customer-first approach. A company spokesperson said: “We were over the moon. Our Twitter has had much response and we have been warmly welcomed into the #SBS family! “We are all very excited.” The firm provides security guards, CCTV, alarm systems and reponse and other related products and services from its head office off Two Mile Hill Road, Kingswood. Sign up here for business news direct to your inbox every day

● Andrew Webley at his Aztec West office “Most people go for a responsive website because it is just a better solution,” he said. Now he is expanding into new areas, taking on bespoke projects for larger clients. “Once you’ve been around for a few years, bigger companies start to talk to you,” he said. “We’re attracting more custom development work.” All the work is carried out in house, which means paying salaries to people who are in turn spending their money in the local economy, something Andrew is proud about. The business is doing well enough

Photograph: Barbara Evripidou

that he’s recently introduced a profit share for employees. But despite the growth, the 36-year-old says his first priority is his existing customers. “Number one is making sure existing clients are happy because we get a lot of business from them,” he said. He also hinks it’s important to have fun at work. “If you have got something you really enjoy – it might be building websites or it could be plumbing – it’s very rewarding to run your own business,” he said. “Stressful, but really

good fun.” And he’s left the garage far behind. A year ago Smarter Web moved into serviced offices at Aztec West. “It allows us to look more professional but without the big overheads,” he said. “I remember a sharply dressed client coming to the garage while my wife and children were heading out. It was quite strange.” And already, they are outgrowing the space and looking for somewhere bigger. He may not be on the FTSE 100 like his former employer, but for Andrew it was a smart move.

Offices

Top-floor move for financial technology firm ● Blue Speck Financial is opening a 120-person office at 10 Templeback

completed the deal here at 10 Templeback, which offers us everything we need and more. The contemporary open-plan space will allow the business to grow its operation and provide jobs and income for the local economy, which we’re very happy to be a part of.” Cube Real Estate, which asset manages the property on behalf of the owners, has applied for planning

permission to re-model reception at the office building, which is also home to NFU Mutual. It also plans to create a new shower hub in the car park which will include cycle racks, showers, a drying room and lockers to enhance the building’s green credentials and promote sustainable travel. The building already has a ferry stop. Jonathan Lawes, asset manager at

Cube, said: “It is very encouraging to see a deal complete at 10 Templeback so soon after we acquired it on behalf of the owners, Benson Elliot. We now look forward to progressing plans to bring one of the city’s largest available grade A offices back to life. “Unlike many schemes in the city centre, we will be offering a much more flexible approach to the size of the occupier we’ll consider and will provide space from 4,700 sq ft.” Matthew Cross, head of inward investment at Invest Bristol & Bath, said: “As well as bringing a prime city centre site forward, breathing new life into 10 Templeback will help attract further investment into the region and allow some of the city’s home-grown start-ups and SMEs to grow in situ.” Andy Heath of letting agents DTZ, added: “We are delighted to welcome Blue Speck to Templeback which we hope will be the first of many new tenants in the building.”

Retail

E-cigarette shop to open in Broadmead ● A NEW e-cigarette shop will open in Bristol’s Broadmead. Portishead-based eVapor has taken the ground floor shop at 58 Union Street on a five year lease. It plans to sell e-cigarette and their accessories from the store, next to Yorkshire Building Society in the recently part of Broadmead. The firm is renting the site for £29,500 a year, which adds to its growing chain of e-cigarette stores across the country. The site comprises a ground floor store of 638 sq ft with storage and kitchen area. Hartnell Taylor Cook LLP advised the landlord’s, a private property company.

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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A FINANCIAL technology company is opening a new office in Bristol. Blue Speck Financial is opening a 120-person office at 10 Templeback, just weeks after the building was acquired by Benson Elliot. The Bristol-born tech company has taken the top floor of the building, including a roof terrace, and plans to move in in March. The deal follows the UK Investment Summit in Wales in November, where it was announced Blue Speck planned to open a new office in the city and create around 100 jobs by 2017. The company was acquired by one of the largest financial services groups in South Africa, MMI Holdings, last year. Blue Speck has taken 13,000 sq ft on a ten-year lease. Chief executive Toby Hughes said: “We knew finding grade A office space large enough to house 120 people in the city centre would be a challenge so we are delighted to have

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Speaking

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Employment

Certification

Making good first impression ‘crucial’

Awards for leisure centre organisation

● MAKING a good first impression is crucial to success in business, according to appropriately named speech and voice expert Debbie Chatting. She believes the way you use your voice can be the vital element that wins work. Debbie, founder and managing director of Bristol-based Voice Synergy, said: “Your voice is a marketing tool that you can use to your benefit “You may only get one chance to impress – and first impressions tend to last.” And as the Government urges businesses to grow through exporting, Debbie, pictured, believes it can be even more important when dealing with customers overseas. “Clarity is everything,” she said. “Focus on what you want to say and say it clearly – especially when presenting to people whose first language may not be English.” Powerful non-verbal communication methods – positive body language which supports a can-do approach are also important factors. “These are skills we can all benefit from,” said Debbie, “but particularly so in the business and work environment where you have to grab and hold the listener’s attention. These communication skills are very important tools which will give you the edge over your competitors and ensure you make an immediate impact and are remembered – for all the right reasons!” Debbie has helped university professors, actors, lawyers and Middle East-based oil-industry personnel to become better and more powerful speakers. She is running a presentation skills workshop at Engineers’ House at Clifton Down tomorrow. “I want people to be able to go straight out and use their new skills,” said Debbie. “They’ll notice a difference not just for their work or business, but in terms of their own personal development as well.” Find out more at visit www.voicesynergy.co.uk/events.

● AN organisation that runs leisure centres in South Gloucestershire has been awarded with the two management and health and safety certificate accreditations. The awards for the Circadian Trust follow an environmental accreditation awarded just a few months ago, making a hat trick of achievements for the not-for-profit organisation. The two most recent awards, ISO9001(Quality Management systems) and ISO18001 (Occupational Health & Safety), recognise the dedication the trust and its staff give to improving customer experience and following best practice. The trust introduced remote access so staff can monitor energy consumption and make health and safety checks remotely using tablets and smartphones. Buildings director Ian Jones said: “These accreditations are extremely challenging to gain, and we are delighted to have achieved such a high number in just a few months.” Chief executive Mark Crutchley added: “Our recent performance has confirmed to our customers and staff that the trust can deliver an outstanding level of service on an everyday basis.”

● Sophie Batt at work

Focus on what the disabled can do, not what they can’t Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

OPHIE Batt is a reminder to any business when it comes to hiring someone with a disability: focus on what they can do, not what they can’t. The 20-year-old from Fishponds was hired as a vehicle repairer and painter at Restomod Automotive Repairs. Bosses describe her as “hard working, driven and passionate”. She also happens to be profoundly deaf. Sophie communicates by lip-reading and British Sign Language. She had struggled to get a job in the trade despite being well qualified. “I was at college, firstly in Doncaster for two years where I did a certificate in car and body spraying, and then I did a third year at Bristol College,” she said. “I had looked for jobs but it was difficult to find a one to match my

skills and interests. “It’s quite rare for women in jobs like this. People didn’t accept a woman would want to be in a job like this one and yet last year I came fourth in a national competition held in Birmingham for car spraying. “I also think communication was an obstacle – some people talk too fast and they see me as a barrier.” Determined Sophie discovered Pluss, a local social enterprise which support more than 200 people with disabilities into employment across Bristol through the DWP’s Work Choice programme. She said: “Pluss helped me to look for jobs. After a couple of weeks we found this garage and it suited me and my skills. When I came to look around I could see the atmosphere and the people were very positive. “I have become much more confident since I’ve been here and I feel motivated. “It’s affected my life outside – I am more confident there now too, especially with lip-reading and communicating with people. I had to

write things down before and it used to be difficult to communicate.” Body shop owner James Nichols is just as delighted with his new employee. “Sophie is a very hard worker,” he said. “She has real drive and uses her initiative. This type of work can be quite demanding and you’ve got to have a real passion and be able to keep up – which Sophie does. She is very good, willing worker. “She is always here bang on time; always makes sure a job is finished before she leaves – she won’t go until she is finished. “We were a little apprehensive at first just around how things would go with communication but everything is going very well. “It really seems to be working. You need to know a little bit of sign language but I’m really quite enjoying lear ning. “I have never had to speak other languages but she is quite willing to teach me and I find it interesting and refreshing to do something a bit different.”

Election

Concerns over possible tax changes ● BUSINESSES are worried about potential tax changes after the general election, according to accountants Baker Tilly. It point to Entrepreneur’s Relief, which allows business owners to pay less capital gains tax – 10 per cent on qualifying assets, instead of the normal rate of 18 or 28 per cent – when selling their company. A change in government could see this lucrative tax benefit reduced or scrapped, meaning some business owners who are considering selling might want to finalise before May. Kirsty Sandwell, Baker Tilly’s head of corporate finance in the South, said: “‘With less than six months to go until the general election, I would encourage business owners to think about the timing of selling their business and to seek professional advice on any commercial or tax considerations.”

Manufacturing

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Drive to win further investment for expansion

THE boss of a company making wheels using cutting edge materials has secured £180,000 investment towards his expansion plans. Now entrepreneur Chris Shelley will now launch a drive to secure investment from local small investors to take that figure to £500,000 so that Dymag can take advantage of the growing market for luxury and supercar carbon composite wheels. The firm is based in a factory in Chippenham but if he raises the money, Chris wants to build a new factory in Bristol close to the National Composites Centre in Emersons Green. He said: “I’m delighted and very excited by the response we have had

from cornerstone investors who will form the bedrock of our expansion capital. “Because this has been so successful, we are now offering smaller investors the opportunity to buy shares in Dymag for as little as £1,000. This will give our current customers, fans and petrol heads a chance to be part of our very exciting future.” The firm has been working with the NCC to build and test pilot products at a competitive price. Chris said: “The city is a world leader in composite technology for the aerospace industry and we now have the potential to make it a centre of excellence and expertise for the

automotive wheel market which is set to explode with new legislation coming into force that will make car makers focus on weight which is where carbon wheels have great benefits.” Dymag built its reputation as a world leader in wheel technology and supplied the wheels for F1 champions such as Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell. The company currently builds wheels for motorcycle race teams. Chris is now working with crowd-funding company SyndicateRoom to allow individuals to invest in Dymag. The company only lists businesses that are already backed by profes-

sional “business angels” who have committed their own funds and thus have taken an active role in evaluating the strength of the company they are investing in. “I’ve decided to raise the remainder of the capital required in this way because Dymag is a British company with a rich heritage that has a great following amongst passionate fans and customers of our brand.” Dymag has developed carbon composite wheels to go into commercial production in 2015 and will target luxury marques such as Porsche, BMW, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Range Rover and Audi as well as continuing its motorcycle wheel production.

● Chris Shelley, Chief Executive of Dymag

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Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Art installations

The art of thinking commercially Gavin Thompson

● Artist Luke Jerram and some of his projects fishing boats in Leigh Woods; pianos left across the city for people to play; turning Clifton Suspension Bridge gold and the Park Street water slide

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

OU might not know the face, but you more than likely know his work. Luke Jerram is the brains behind the water slide down Park Street which made headlines around the world last year. His other projects include pianos left across the city in 2009 for people to play and his next projects include turning Clifton Suspension Bridge gold and installing giant fishing boats in Leigh Woods as part of Bristol’s European Green Capital celebrations. Luke, who recently turned 40, has become a well-known artist. But behind that is a successful, if reluctant, businessman too. “It’s difficult for artists to survive just working in Bristol,” he said. “You are forced into thinking commercially in order to make a living.” It may be necessity rather than desire, but Luke is increasingly running a business. He’s a limited company, VAT registered and, from his office in Spike Island, Luke employs three people. They manage his art installations which operate almost like a franchise business. He comes up with a great idea, makes it work, usually amid a blaze of publicity, then exports the idea to other places. It’s at this point he now hands things over, leaving him free to think of the next big idea. Luke said: “Once art projects become financially viable, getting repeated sales, I hand them to someone else to manage to enable me to go on to new stuff.” One of this team manages the pianos project. If you thought this had only happened in Bristol, you were wrong. This year 11 cities around the world are installing 1,000 pianos. Another team member is helping Luke with his project putting big fishing boats into Leigh Woods. “When artists become successful doing one thing which is brilliant, they can become trapped by it and are unable to move out of that space,” said Luke – something he was determined would not happen to him. Luke’s work has become well known enough that people approach him.

“It could be a piano competition in Barcelona who want us to do a street piano project,” he said. “We give them documents to show them how to do it, to enable them to bid for funds to deliver it. We charge fees for that, and I might fly in and meet the mayor, do interviews and so on. “We are providing them the opportunity to deliver tried and tested art works pretty much guaranteed to get national press and reach perhaps

200,000 people. “Some organisations prefer to commission new stuff, others want something they already know works.” After the street pianos project was carried out in London, Luke had about 60 inquiries from cities around the world. One project for which he changed the approach was the Park and Slide, water slide in Park Street.

“We knew it would be copied and I didn’t want to try it around the world,” he said. “I’m not even sure it’s an art work – more an artistic intervention. “So instead we created an 80-page manual with risk assessments, all the documents you need. We are selling the pack to raise money for Frank Water. We’ve covered the administration and raised about £3,000 for the charity.”

F4N

Making the most of nuclear new-build ● SMALL and medium sized manufacturers in the Bristol area must focus more emphasis on quality and health & safety if they are going to make the most of the £60 billion+ nuclear new build and decommissioning opportunity. The rallying call was made by Fit For Nuclear (F4N) assessor John Ruddleston, currently helping a number of companies stake their claim for work ranging from fabrication and maintenance, to precision components and technical design. John believes a completely different mindset is required by management teams looking to enter the industry for the first time, with speed and cost playing second fiddle to exacting standards and a world-class health and safety record. “For a long time manufacturers have had it drummed into them that they need to deliver quicker and take cost out of the equation, especially those supplying into automotive, food and, on some occasions, aerospace,” said John. “Nuclear is very different. Of course they are looking for you to meet delivery dates and don’t expect to be overpriced, but there is more of a partnership approach to working with suppliers so they get the critical parts and services they require.” The Manufacturing Advisory Service recently joined forces with the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre to roll-out Fit For Nuclear, which lets companies measure their capabilities against industry standards and helps them bridge gaps to meet requirements. Sign up here for business news direct to your inbox every day

Technology

Broadband shake-up would be boost for growth muted take up of fibre among businesses.” Talk Talk is the second biggest player in the business broadband market but with less than 10 per cent of the market share it is dwarfed by BT which has closer to 60 per cent. Charles said on regular broadband, the market was competitive and he urged companies to take advantage of the Government-backed voucher schemes to get connected if they aren’t already. “At first the scheme wasn’t good at all,” said Charles. “But we have worked with Government and now it’s a lot better. Now if you are looking to connect it can be done seamlessly, we sort the problems for you.”

But he goes back to fibre as key for many businesses with higher demands. “While consumers want fibre for downloading from Netflix, business need it for uploading data to their website. More businesses use cloud-base software and services and might be uploading a lot of data. The firm carried out a survey among Bristol SMEs and found 23 per cent were uncertain about achieving growth in 2015. The same figure named growing revenues as their top priority this year while 15 per cent said it was cutting costs. But most - 65 per cent - of small Bristol business believe broadband connectivity is fundamental to their

growth. It also found a worrying 42 per cent of firms locally were using January and February to pay off Christmas costs such as the office party of annual bonuses. It found Christmas costs upwards of £20,000 for many small businesses. With that in mind, Charles urged Bristol business to follow the consumer market and shop around and switch to the best provider for them to cut their costs. “Look at your options,” he said. “Look at what you are paying. You could save £6-700 a year by switching. We switching in the consumer market but not in business. January is a good time to cut expenses.”

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● Talk Talk managing director Charles Bligh

THE fibre broadband market should be shaken up so that small businesses in Bristol can harness the potential to help them grow, according to the boss of one of the biggest providers. Charles Bligh, managing director of Talk Talk, was speaking to Business as the company launched a campaign to target more SME customers for its standard broadband package. He said: “Fibre is an unregulated product. We are encouraging Government to put more regulation on the charges because the prices we get from BT Open Reach are too expensive. “If we want to put higher speeds into our SMEs we need regulation on fibre. That’s why we are seeing a

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Wednesday, January 14, 2015

The Big Interview

‘FUTURE’S FANTASTIC FOR OUR AERO The aerospace sector across Bristol and the South West is world leading but it will take planning and foresight to keep it that way. Gavin Thompson meets Simon Young, the man in charge of the industry body trying to pull the vision together

ILTON is a once in a generation opportunity for the aerospace industry, according to Simon Young, chief executive of the West of England Aerospace Forum. That remark might surprise some in the wider community, who looked on the closure of the airfield by owner BAE Systems in 2012 as a harbinger of doom for the city’s aerospace industry. “That’s not a language I hear at all,” says Simon, not quite falling off his chair. “I hear the opposite. The passion among the businesses already here who think ‘we are where we are because of the what’s gone before and the skills here’. “The language from industry is not about leaving, it’s about sustaining and growing. The future is fantastic. This is certainly not about aerospace leaving Bristol. “Filton has been at the centre of aerospace for 100 years,” he adds. “Look at the heritage around Filton. Concorde, Rolls-Royce, GK, it is im-

WHAT IS WEAF?

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● The West of England Aerospace Forum is a membership organisation for the industry across much of the South West, from Tewkesbury to Cornwall. It aims to help members grow, be more competitive and offer them support. It runs networking events, offers professional services and also delivers funding projects, such as NATEP.

mensely rich heritage and with the big names there now we feel passionate about not wasting that heritage.” He says the development of the airfield is an opportunity for the industry. “It’s brilliant that the Bristol Aerospace Collection Trust is going to create an incredible learning facility based around the past, present and future,” he says. “It’s a misnomeor to just call it the Concorde museum, though that will be a magnificent centrepiece. What that will do to enthuse and engage young people and teachers about the brilliance of engineering is phenomenal.” Yes, Simon admits people in the industry were saddened by the airfield closure, but things change. “Whilst we would all love to have seen the airfield stay active, it can only stay active if you have got a demonstrable need for it,” he says. “So we acknowledge it’s a great opportunity to service the social economic need for housing. “But also want to see that aerospace exploits the opportunity to sustain those high-quality, high-value jobs that keep the South West and UK at forefront of design

and technology. “We are working with local authority and the Local Enterprise Partnership and BAE Systems, which owns the land, to say ‘can we have a suitable area made available that we can use to put new capabilities in’,” he says. “Some of those maybe specific industry needs, such as a company wants a building there, or could be more collaborative such as supply chain incubator units. But make no bones about it, it will be a jewel in the crown.” This means making sure the land freed up by the closure is put to the right use, and specifically that enough of the right kind of space is there for the aerospace industry to expand. “It can be far too easy for developers to meet the demands for employment targets for the land by putting high-density jobs in it,” says Simon. “Call centres and offices all play a part in our economy. But the high-skilled jobs that are associated with aerospace don’t come from high-density sites.” The challenge is for industry to be quick enough to influence the planning process. And that’s where WEAF has a big role to play. The organisation has evolved in recent years. It was largely funded through the South West Regional Development Agency had around 800 members. When the agency was scrapped, it was left to find its own way. A subscription fee was introduced and although membership plummeted to closer to 150, the organisation become self-financing. The not-for-profit body now employs eight people at its offices in Clevedon. Simon joined as chief executive in January, leaving a teaching job in Oxfordshire to return to aerospace. He had previously had a number of roles including running the avionics division for what was then Smiths Aerospace and is now GE Aviation Systems near Cheltenham. Go back further and he was a jet pilot in the Royal Air Force. The aerospace sector has been working with Government to draw up a national investment strategy called the Aerospace Growth Partnership, and WEAF has taken on the task of developing a local vision. “Everybody was saying this shouldn’t be owned by Airbus, Augusta Westland or Rolls-Royce, it’s sector strategy,” says Simon. “They turned to WEAF and said ‘it’s about time you guys stepped up to act as custodian of this on the sector’s behalf ’ and that’s the role WEAF is now playing.” Innovation Aerospace – or iAero – is becoming a blueprint for how the sector will develop in the coming years in Bristol and the South West. Simon said: “It’s a strategy focusing around the things we are good at. We are leaders in wing design, wing integration, engine controls and integration onto wings, rotary aircraft integration and design. The strategy is about sustaining that expertise and staying out in front. “Composites are very much part of

“ Filton has been at the centre of aerospace for 100 years. Look at the heritage around Filton. Concorde, Rolls-Royce, GK, it is immensely rich heritage and with the big names there now we feel passionate about not wasting that heritage.” Simon Young

WHAT IS NATEP? ● The National Aerospace Technology Exploitation Programme, of course! It’s scheme were businesses can secure funding up to £150,000 for products or services that are past the concept stage but where the company us struggling to give it a final push to make it saleable. There are several criteria: It’s got to create new jobs or at least preserve existing ones. It has to be collaborative, making companies look for other

that. There are new ideas all the time on how to use composites, it’s a key area, along with additive layer manufacturing (3D printing). There is an expertise emerging here in these areas.” He explains the strategy is about businesses and other organisations working together for mutual gain.

companies or academia to work with. And it has to have “end-sure validation”. That means getting a potential end user for the product to agree it’s a good idea. That process helps the manufacturer to hone the product and make sure there is a market. Several rounds have already passed but there are further deadlines in December and March for applications. Contact WEAF for details.

“We are trying to create a strategic landscape that can help the whole supply chain move forward faster and more coherently than it currently does,” he says. “Local Enterprise Partnerships and other bodies want to make their interventions. This gives them another layer to work with so they can

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Wednesday, January 14, 2015

OSPACE INDUSTRY’

Technology

● From left, Richard Roller, joint managing director; Kevin Brown, director; Ken Walker, joint managing director; and Jake Mearns, director

Pioneering power unit firm wins major airport contract

● Filton airfield from the air

“ It is our ability to make decisions quickly and work closely with the client, backed by our engineering and service support capacity, that gave the customer the confidence in the product and company. Joint managing director Ken Walker London City Airport made the decision to switch to mobile electric power as part of its plan to reduce Co2 emissions. It is estimated that the electric power units will eliminate 2,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and produce fuel savings exceeding of £200,000 per annum. Powervamp already supplies its products to more than 60 countries and with new products being continuously developed and launched it sees a growing world market for its products and services. Being at the forefront of electric technology could open up big opportunities for the Weston firm, as the gas-guzzling aviation industry looks to become greener and cut carbon emissions.

● London City Airport made the decision to switch to mobile electric power as part of its plan to reduce Co2 emissions

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target them better and time them better. And it gives private firms opportunity to look at their investments too.” The future of the Filton site will be a key part of that strategy and Simon is keen to get it right. “We’re trying to achieve a balance so that amount of enterprise land is neither so excessive that you can’t build enough houses but neither are we being choked off so that we don’t find in five years’ time that there’s a fantastic opportunity but we just don’t have the real estate. “Industry can’t say ‘we want half the site but we don’t know what we are going to do with it’. But it does take industry longer to crystallise what those needs are.” The aerospace industry is used to working in long cycles. It takes years to design and build a new aeroplane. But if the development of Filton really is an opportunity for the sector, it needs to move quickly or risk seeing that it pass by. It is indeed time for for WEAF to spread its wings.

A SMALL manufacturer has won a major contract to supply ground-breaking technology to the airport sector. Powervamp based on Oldmixon Crescent business park, in Weston-super-Mare, has supplied 10 mobile electrical ground power units to London City Airport. The units are used to power the plane during servicing, cleaning and other jobs carried out while it is on the ground. The deal is for new units to replace old diesel ones and is a UK manufacturing first. Powervamp employs 40 people and is a world-leading designer and manufacturer of specialised equipment for powering all types of aircraft and vehicles. Joint managing director Ken Walker said it was a great achievement to beat much larger firms to the contract. He said: “We score over the major multi-national companies that have tended to dominate the ground power industry because we can respond quickly to a customer’s unique requirements using our team of exceptionally talented graduate engineers. “It is our ability to make decisions quickly and work closely with the client, backed by our engineering and service support capacity, that gave the customer the confidence in the product and company.” The contract involved designing compact ground power units, which are mounted on battery powered movable carts.

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Wednesday, January 14, 2015

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

Sector focus: Aerospace

SUPPLIERS OF SKILLS RISE TO NEW Following the recent launch of the latest Airbus plane, the A350, Gavin Thompson looks at how the aerospace supply chain in Bristol is shaping up to new challenges

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T would be easy to think the aerospace industry locally is all about three or four companies. But behind Airbus, Rolls-Royce, GKN and BAE Systems, there is a supply chain made up of small and medium sized businesses. They face different challenges: being innovative enough to stay ahead of the curve and look beyond the current big orders and offering job security while often winning only short-term contracts as the big players seem to hold all the cards. Recruitment of experienced engineering talent is one of the challenges, according to Michelle Raven, business development director at one such firm, Stirling Dynamics in Clifton. “We work closely with Bristol, Bath and UWE universities who provide us with excellent calibre graduates,” she says. “We do like to take those bright people and train them up. But you can’t always do that, you need a mix of experience and that can be hard to find.” The firm employs 70 people and has worked on a similar number of types of aircraft including Concorde, the Black Hawk Helicopter and the latest Airbus A350, in the past 28 years. Recently it developed the hand controls for the flight simulators used to train pilots of the F35 joint strike fighter. “Every single pilot who flies the F35 has been trained on our equipment,” says Michelle. Recently, the company has had to look further afield for work. That might seem surprising when the civil side of aviation is booming. “Airbus and Boeing have spent a lot of time and money over the last few years designing their new aircraft and put a lot of money into innovation and technology,” said Michelle. “But now they are focusing on getting those designs manufactured and into the marketplace which means a slowdown in front-end design work.” Established firms such as Stirling Dynamics, however, know that the

“ We work closely with Bristol, Bath and UWE universities who provide us with excellent calibre graduates... We do like to take those bright people and train them up. But you can’t always do that, you need a mix of experience and that can be hard to find Michelle Raven

“ Every single pilot

who flies the F35 fighter has been trained on our equipment

Michelle Raven, of Stirling Dynamics, with the hand controls for the flight simulators used to train pilots of the F35 joint strike fighter

aerospace world moves in cycles and the firm has found new markets exporting its services to the likes of China, South Korea and India. “Comac is a good example,” says Michelle. “China wanted to design its own competitive aircraft. They have all the engineers but what they don’t have is the aerospace heritage and experience that a company like us holds. So they reach out to us and ask for our help. “We are now exporting about 50 per cent of our products and services.” The other area of opportunity for aerospace suppliers is diversification. And Bristol is well-placed for those who want to tap into the green tech market. “A lot of the technologies are transferable into other advanced engineering sectors,” Michelle explains. “We have been focusing our problem solving and innovation-led approach from aerospace on the low carbon energy sector. Bristol is a hub for aerospace and it’s a hub for low carbon so it make sense.” If firms like Stirling Dymanics are to continue to grow, however, they need to room to do so. And the kinds of space they need are different to high density offices that developers tend to reach for when looking to meet employment land requirements. That’s where Barry Warburton might step in. As the Invest in Bristol and Bath aerospace sector champion, Barry can act as a link between the companies and the property agencies and developers. It’s a task he is increasingly being asked to do as the

industry grows. “There is capacity for growth in existing companies in the region,” he says. “The order book on the civil side of aviation is the largest it has every been, out to 2030. “Companies in the supply chain will need to grow too or they will take their business elsewhere.” Barry says the growth areas are in the manufacturing and engineering services side and he believes around a third of local firms in the sector are thinking about expansion. Developers are still reluctant to build new premises speculatively, so for most firms that means hunting for an existing site that works. “They can come to us with their specific requirements – for example I had one company looking for a space with 9-metre high eaves because of the size of parts they planned to manufacture,” says Barry. “Then we

“ There is capacity for growth in existing companies in the region. The order book on the civil side of aviation is the largest it has every been, out to 2030. Companies in the supply chain will need to grow too or they will take their business elsewhere Barry Warburton

can contact all the agencies and come back with some suggested options.” One such agency is JLL, headed in Bristol by Jeremy Richards. Jeremy says there isn’t a huge amount of good existing stock available, but there is plenty of space. “There will be a range of employment land as the Filton Airfield site is redeveloped and at the nearby Rolls-Royce East Works,” he says. “If you look across from Aztec West to Emerson’s Green, there is enough space to meet future requirements.” While demand for offices will inevitably take some of that land,

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Wednesday, January 14, 2015

CHALLENGES ● A formation flight of A350 XWB test aircraft

Chances and challenges in fast-changing industry “ We have to make sure we encourage enough young people to do the science, technology, maths and engineering subjects ... In particular we need more women and we are encouraging girls to keep studying maths at A-level standard. Airbus chief operating officer Tom Williams

Gavin Thompson in Toulouse gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

National Composites Centre where there is a lot of research and development work going on but also around Airbus where the Brabazon Office Park filled up with suppliers.” Aerospace suppliers often have specialist requirements, particularly if they work on defence projects with all the stringent security demands that involves. That means developers are unlikely to build space speculatively, just when it is required. So companies may have to commission buildings. And that takes time. For manufacturers that means moving quickly to keep up while on the R&D side if demands are slower, this is the time when our forward-looking businesses should be looking at the space they will need to be ready for when the development cycle comes around again in a few years’ time.

the science, technology, maths and engineering subjects,” he said. “You can’t really be successful in our business without a strong grasp of mathematics and physics. “In particular we need more women and we are encouraging girls to keep studying maths at A-level standard.” With many suppliers facing decisions about whether to invest in new premises and equipment to cope with the growing demand in civil aviation and those changing technologies, Tom offers reassurance that Airbus is committed to Filton. “In the last year we have opened new engineering and design offices at Barnwell House and Pegasus House,” he said. “That was a big investment and really part of a commitment to Filton because there was always a bit of a question mark. We had a series of rather old, slightly decrepit buildings and it really wasn’t the right atmosphere for the level of people we wanted to recruit. “I’ve been really pleased to get that investment under way.” RULING THE SKIES: PAGE 15

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there’s room for a mix which he says could accommodate firms looking for sites in the 10-20,000 square foot range. For smaller businesses, land around the National Composites Centre in Emerson’s Green and next door Bristol and Bath Science Park could be an option, where Jeremy believes there is now enough demand to justify building the next phase. The recent announcement by BAE Systems that it is closing its R&D centre in the area is a blow, but Jeremy believes it is “a small dent in a massive industry”. He says the well established sector in the region has been a magnet, pulling in more investment. “There’s definitely been a cluster effect going on in and around north Bristol for the past 15 or 20 years,” he says. “The most obvious example is the

ECHNOLOGIES in the aerospace industry are changing fast – and that means challenges and opportunities for companies in the supply chain. Airbus chief operating officer Tom Williams believes suppliers around Bristol need to push the boundaries of technology around composite materials and 3D printing. “With 3D printing we have not yet fully exploited the potential,” he told Business. “Most things made in this way have been simply copying a part we have already designed and made. The next step will be to combine several parts. That will be big the change in the next three or four years.” The only Brit on the board at Airbus finds it hard to envisage a completely 3D-printed plane any time soon.

“Some materials such as aluminium are difficult to 3D-print,” he said. “And we use a lot of aluminium to make planes. We also need to be able to take parts off to replace them.” Tom believes the South West has a good supply chain currently. “GKN is one of our biggest suppliers and a partner and we have a great working relationship with them,” he said. “There are a lot of small and medium-sized enterprises around the Bristol area too, particularly around structure design and parts with engineering capability. We have a strong relationship with the University of Bristol too around research and technology. “But there are always opportunities as technology is changing. 3D-printing is an area that is developing quickly.” Another challenge is recruitment. Sitting at the top of the food chain, Airbus can attract the right level of talent but Tom believes it is vital for Airbus that its suppliers further down the chain can do the same. “We have to make sure we encourage enough young people to do

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Last chance to enter awards as deadline looms ● THERE are just days left to enter this year’s Bristol and Bath Women in Business Awards. Nominations close this Friday, January 16. But it’s not too late as the entry process is simple and can be completed online at www.bristolpost.co.uk/wiba. This year’s categories are: Woman of the Year, sponsored by PPC: 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: 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.

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Female Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Crest Nicholson: 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.

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Opinion

Let’s celebrate local success

SPONSORED BY

Fiona Jordan Associate dean external engagement, UWE Bristol

ROUND half of the UWE Bristol’s students are women and I want them to leave us with an equal chance of becoming business leaders of the future and successful business owners. Unfortunately, it is clear from reports like that by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and Women in Management (2011) that a gender pay gap still exists and women remain under-represented at the highest levels of management in many sectors of industry. It is important therefore that we help build the confidence of female graduates, and all those who are setting out in business, through celebrating the achievements of women who have succeeded. That’s why UWE Bristol is delighted to once again be the title sponsor of the Bristol and Bath Women in Business Awards in 2015. In addition to addressing inequalities in the workplace, it is essential to recognise the women make a vital financial and non-financial contribution to this region’s economy. The value that having diverse management teams can bring to businesses in helping to identify and meet the needs of all customers should not be under-estimated. It is also clear that successful organisations are generally those where a variety of leadership styles are used to motivate and manage the workforce. The Women in Business awards are a great opportunity to recognise the enormous contribution that women in business make throughout this region. In achieving their career goals research shows that men and women value different types of professional development. Whilst both sexes identify business school and professional qualifications as being the most effective career development mechanism, women tend to place greater value on coaching, mentoring and peer support. At UWE we are involved in a number of activities which help to support women in a variety of businesses and law firms, a few examples being a funded project on mentoring women in aerospace

in association with

● Fiona Jordan speaking at Bristol Connected, the Post’s regular business networking event. businesses, helping to develop Project You, a peer support network for women in corporate roles, and contributing to the development of female entrepreneurs in collaboration with Bristol Woman magazine. It is good to see that female business and law students too have set up their own peer support networks with assistance from tutors. There are of course a wide variety of other peer support networks for women in the Bristol and Bath area and I would encourage female leaders, managers and entrepreneurs to access these. In my experience the sharing of ideas and practical tips, as well as the opportunity to meet with like-minded women and create con-

tacts, is essential in helping women to develop the confidence to realise their full potential. At the recent Bristol Connected event, for instance, it was inspiring to hear about the development of the innovative Blue Badge Company and the journey of its Company Director Ellen Green. One of the most enjoyable aspects of last year’s Women in Business awards was the way in which women from a wide variety of business backgrounds came together to support each other and recognise each other’s contributions. I am very much looking forward to this year’s event and the opportunity to celebrate some great local businesswomen.

Sponsor profile

Award recognises significant personal contribution

NCE again the Print and Promotions Company (PPc) are lending their support to the Bristol and Bath Women in Business

Awards. The Print and Promotions Company, a Bristol based business, is sponsoring the Woman of the Year award. The category will recognise a woman who made a significant personal contribution to an established company through either expansion or through launching a new product or service. PPc specialises in the printing of everything from paper products – office stationary, booklets, flyers etc – to promotional items. The firm’s promotional range is as extensive as your imagination with

products to suit every budget. PPc are a preferred supplier to the Conservative Party at a national and local level. The company is also able to provide a full direct mail service, including a variety of stationary, data handling and sorting. Direct mail is available for promotional items as well.”

● PPC with London Mayor Boris Johnson

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

In pictures Remarkable Engagement homes debate

Business diary Executive briefing on internet security: Designed to inform you of the security threats you face, your responsibilities in respect of those threats and practical suggestions on how to discharge those responsibilities. Run by Bristol-based TVS at the Engine Shed, Tuesday, January 20, 8-9am. Register via Eventbrite.

● The panel at the event, from left, Cllr Tim Ball, Thangam Debbonaire, Gavin Thompson, James Durie and Cllr Matthew Riddle; and attendees networking Photos: Dan Regan

Region’s housing needs spark lively debate

OLITICANS and leading lights in the property sector engaged in a lively debate about the region’s housing needs. Leaders from commercial property agencies, developers and local authorities made up the audience for the event, staged at Hotel du Vin in Bristol’s city centre. They questioned policy makers and influences on the panel about what they could do to make sure the region

has enough homes to meet future needs. The politically balanced panel consisted of South Gloucestershire Council leader Matthew Riddle (Conservative), Labour Parliamentary candidate for Bristol West Thangam Debonaire, Bath and North East Somerset cabinet member for homes and planning Tim Ball (Lib Dem) and James Durie from Business West. Bristol Post assistant editor Gavin

Thompson, who chaired the debate, said: “The average house price in Bristol is now £277,000 and the average monthly rent £1,200. These astonishing figures show us why homes need to be high on the political agenda. “It was great for industry to get the chance to quiz policy makers. “We had some interesting answers about possible solutions, including brownfield and in-fill development, more powers to bring empty homes into use and better consultation on

future building. But it’s hard to get away from the fact that, one way or another, we need to create a lot more homes than we currently have. “The debate continued in the bar afterwards and I suspect the politicians left with a few business cards and words of advice. But it was all good natured and hopefully went some way to make us all better informed.” The event was organised by Remarkable Engagement, based at Aztec West.

Library consultation: What role do libraries play in terms of the local business community? Should the business community become more involved with them in the future? How could the business community become more involved or better utilise the facilities offered by libraries? Bristol City Council is consulting on the future of the city’s libraries and is holding an event to get business views. Central Library on Wednesday, January 21, 6:15-7:30pm. Register via Eventbrite. Western Daily Press Business Guide 2015: Keynote speaker Prof Jane Harrington from UWE will launch the annual business guide from our sister publication, the Western Daily Press. From 8am at UWE Exhibition & Conference Centre, Frenchay Campus, Thursday, January 22. Register via UWE website. 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 & development, inspirational speakers and networking. January 25, 6pm at Hotel du Vin. Strictly for PAs, EAs, secretaries and office administrative professionals. Book via eventbrite. Outlook 2015: Commercial property agency DTZ presents analysis and forecasts for the sector at The Bristol Hotel, from 8am on Thursday, February 5. Bristol Connected: Save the date! Thursday, February 5, 6-8pm. Details to follow. Bristol Distinguished Address Series - Peter Mather: BP’s group regional vice president, Europe and head of country, UK, delivers the latest in the address series supported by the Bristol Post. His role has overall responsibility for the governance, reputation, co-ordination and integration of all BP's activities across Europe. From 6pm, February 11, at the Glendinning Lecture Theatre, Frenchay Campus, UWE.

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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.

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

The back page

Your digest of the week in business

Development

KPMG revealed as anchor tenant

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

HE anchor tenant for a major city centre office development has been revealed. KPMG – one of the ‘big four’ accountancy firms – has agreed to let most of the 66 Queen Square development due to be ready in the summer. The project, part new-build and part refurbishment of a period building, was one of the first speculative office developments in Bristol since the recession. Alex Jordan, leasing director at developer Skanska, said: “We are delighted that KPMG will be the main tenant for our first UK commercial development project in Bristol. “As developers working with our own construction team, we have been able to adapt the design of the building to fit with the needs of our tenant, while securing the longest lease in the city in recent years.” The professional services firm has

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People ● Andrews, the Keynsham- based property group has made two appointments to the board. Paul Bumford joins from Legal & General to become managing director of the group’s financial services business. He brings with him over 30 years’ experience and a career that covers stints with TSB Trust Company and Countrywide. Paul said: “The opportunity was one I simply couldn’t ignore. I’ve already presented my five-year plan to the management team and at its heart is a vision to ensure that all our departments work together to understand the value and needs of each and every one of our clients.” Paul assumes the role from Chris Chapman, a veteran with 33 years’ service at the firm, Chris has moved to take on leadership of the Andrews estate agents branch network; land and new homes business; and the company’s Fine & Country operations in Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham and Oxfordshire. He said: “I’ve had a wonderful experience over the last 17 years leading the financial services business here at Andrews, but to have a new challenge ahead is something I’m very much looking forward to.”

● How the 66 Queen Square development could look agreed a 15-year lease for the first, second and third floors and part of the ground floor, filling 52,000 square feet (4,831 sq m) of the 61,000 sq ft (5,667 sq m) Grade A office building. Phil Cotton, Bristol office senior partner and South regional chairman at KPMG, said: “This significant

● Housebuilder Redcliffe Homes has appointed Mandy Parker as the new sales and marketing co-ordinator at its headquarters in Chipping Sodbury. Mandy comes to Redcliffe Homes after 16 years in Crest Nicholson’s South West sales team. Lorraine Kendrick, Redcliffe’s marketing and sales manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mandy on board – she’s a brilliant team-player with great communications and organisational skills. Mandy added: “My new colleagues have made me so welcome, and it’s great to know that my sales experience is of real value to the team. We are building a variety of schemes in Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire, so no two days are the same – and I love it!” In her spare time Mandy is a keen salsa dancer, drawing inspiration from the colourful moves of the Caribbean, where she has holidayed regularly since the mid 90s. ● An in-house health and safety advisor has been appointed at a growing Bristol property management agency. Maxine Matthews has joined Downend- based BNS Property Management where she will oversee the health and safety practises of all 230 blocks managed by the firm across the South West. Maxine, 36, said: “I am really looking forward to getting stuck in to my new role at BNS.

investment underscores our commitment to Bristol and the importance of the city to our business. “We have achieved continued success and growth in our marketplace, adding £17 million to our income over the last two years, and I am pleased to be able to plough these

The role itself is huge, ensuring the safety of over 230 apartment blocks, gated communities, housing estates and new build developments across the South West but I’m excited to get started. “In the past BNS has outsourced their health and safety consultancy so I will be the first advisor to join the team internally. It will be great to carve out the role along with the directors Andrew and Ian and create a structure which will benefit the residents. I’m also really excited to be joining such a forward thinking business which is growing in size and reputation in the area.”

Success

profits back into the business and invest in new flagship premises in Bristol. “Our new office in Queen Square will provide our colleagues and clients with top quality office space equipped with the latest technology and located in the heart of the city.” Queen Square is the traditional heart of the city’s professional services district. Number 66 integrates a grade two listed Georgian terrace within the new building, aiming to combine historic elegance with modern, efficient office accommodation and fantastic views over the square. The building incorporates sustainable features for long-term energy efficiency, including photovoltaic panels, a high-performance building fabric, LED lighting and water-saving fittings to meet BREEAM Excellent and an EPC A rating. There is just 9,000 sq ft (836 sq m) still available to let, comprising 3,000 sq ft (279 sq m) on both the ground and fourth floors, in addition to a self-contained 3,000 sq ft unit fronting Queen Square. Alder King and JLL are letting agents for the scheme.

managing director Paul Lynch, contracts director Marcus Bird and Crest Nicholson regeneration managing director Debbie Aplin.

Events ● Food Connections festival will be back for its second year between May 1 and 9 and businesses are being invited to get involved. Last year 185,000 people attended more than 200 events. James Durie, director of Business West Chamber & Initiative, said: “We are proud to be involved in Food Connections 2015. We encourage food and non-food businesses and employers small to large to come forward and offer their support and get involved so that they too can make the most of the opportunity to reach a wide audience of people interested in food, drink, sustainability and healthy futures.” Applications for events close tomorrow, January 15.

Trends ● Elmtree team with Michael Portillo ● Elmtree Garden Contractors in Pilning took a major prize at the British Association of Landscape Industries National Landscape Awards 2014 in association with Horticulture Week. The awards are for landscape designers and contractors who have demonstrated exceptionally high standards of professionalism and skill. The company won a BALI Principal Award for its Crest Nicholson project at Bristol Harbourside Building 4 and Millenium Promenade in the Soft Landscaping (non-domestic) cost under £300,000 category. Former MP Michael Portillo hosted the ceremony and presented the award to

● Despite some concerns of a slowdown in the economy at the end of 2014, two new reports paint a more positive picture. The seasonally adjusted Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking South West Business Activity Index signalled a further strong rise in private sector output at the end of 2014. The Index was little-changed from November’s 55.3, at 55.0, broadly in line with the figure for the UK as a whole and indicative of a sharp rate of expansion. Activity has now risen for 21 consecutive months, although, on a quarterly basis the rate of growth in Q4 was the slowest since Q2 2013. Meanwhile, the latest Business Trends report by Bristol-based accountants and business advisers BDO LLP found firms expect to grow in the first half of 2015.

In numbers Inflation (CPI)

0.5 1.6 1.8 0.5 3.99

Inflation (RPI)

Weekly earnings

Base interest rate

% % %

Ave mortgage rate % Corporation tax % Main rate

Small profits rate – below £300,000

Business current accounts

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

Business savings accounts 1.9% Secure Trust £1,000 deposit Bank State Bank 1.49% of India £10,000 deposit Source:

Petrol prices .91

108 116 119 62

Unleaded

.11 Diesel

.74p Super unleaded

.21p LPG

Source: PetrolPrices.com