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CREATIVE THINKING
ELECTION JITTERS
LIFE’S A BREESE
Key Bristol sector is buoyant but needs more talent – see page 4
Fear of instability prompts slowdown in construction – p3
We talk to one of the most well connected men in Bristol – p6
bristolpost.co.uk
www.
22 APR
2015
BECAUSE WE’RE HAPPY...
INSIDE BRISTOL’S HAPPIEST OFFICE There are more ways to motivate your workforce than money (although it doesn’t hurt) – see pages 8&9
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Drink
Brewer toasts expansion as demand rises ● BREWER and drinks wholesaler St Austell Brewery is expanding its sales team and its distribution capacity as its Bristol business continues to grow. There is has been increasing demand from pubs, restaurants, hotels, clubs and bars throughout the Bristol and Avon area to be supplied by St Austell Brewery’s wholesale division which has prompted the brewery to grow the team and its distribution capacity over the past 12 months. The wholesale business in South West England saw turnover exceed £58 million in 2014. A large part of this growth came from the new Bristol depot where sales have now reached nearly £5 million per annum. Sales of St Austell’s own beer brands increased by 13.8 per cent in 2014 while sales of over 100,000 brewer’s barrels (over 25 million pints) were recorded last year for the first time. Sales development manager Lee Jasper, above, has lived in Bristol for 36 years. “Since I started working for the brewery there has been a massive change in the presence and the reputation it has in the city,” he said. “Tribute is popular but Korev Lager is the real growth brand. The Tobacco Factory is the company’s biggest free trade customer, so it’s travelled really well.”
Hospitality
Businessman takes full control of hotel
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● A BUSINESSMAN who had a vision to transform four-star hotel and health club Cadbury House is now the owner. Nick Taplin, who lives in Wrington, North Somerset, has bought out Sanguine Hospitality, taking full control of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel. Nick, below, and business partner Caroline Wilce, with continued backing from Downing Investment, will now operate the Congresburybased venue under Black & White Hospitality. Previously owned by Sanguine Hospitality, of which Taplin is still a director, the deal has seen the entrepreneur buy out the stake held by the specialist hotel development company. Cadbury House has undergone a £26-million redevelopment since Nick got involved back in 2003. He said: “It’s been an incredible journey and to effectively own Cadbury House is an amazing feeling. The hard work will now go on to make sure Cadbury House remains one of the leading venues in the South West.”
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Design ● Nash Partnership has taken a 1,300 square foot office in King Street, Bristol
“ With a very healthy number of Bristol projects on the books, the time is right for us to up our presence here by taking more space in this great city location. Edward Nash, above
Move to bigger office as design firm wins more projects in city Oh}pu \ovtwzvu
Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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DESIGN agency is bringing its own plans to fruition after a growing portfolio of work meant it needed a bigger office. Nash Partnership has moved to King Street, Bristol, taking a 1,300 square foot office. The architecture, urban design,
planning and regeneration practice retains its bigger Bath office, where it has been based for 27 years, but is expanding its presence in Bristol as it wins more work in the city and nationally. It gained a foothold in Bristol four years ago with a serviced office in Wine Street and quickly started winning more local business. This prompted the strategic decision to move to a bigger office in Bristol, which opens next month. Among Nash’s local projects are a new-build at the University of Bristol’s Burwalls House Estate, 14 new
homes in Novers Hill as part of the regeneration of Knowle West and a number of conversions in Clifton, Redland. Nash is expanding partly thanks to support from the West of England Growth Fund, which is helping with the costs of fitting out the premises, buying software and creating new jobs. Senior partner Edward Nash said: “We are delighted to have signed the lease for our new office in Bristol, which symbolises an important stage in the growth of our business. “With a very healthy number of
Bristol projects on the books, the time is right for us to up our presence here by taking more space in this great city location. “Having a convenient, permanent base in the city will enable staff to work more closely with our Bristol clients, ensuring they receive the best quality of service. “Our mix of skills is normally only available through the geographic spread of larger multi-national firms, so we have something unique to offer Bristol and we look forward to the local, regional and national opportunities this will present.”
Offices
Creative agency finds ideal ‘laid-back’ new home A CREATIVE agency is moving out of Clifton and to new offices in south Bristol, partly due to parking restrictions. Taxi Studio has taken 5,562 sq ft at the iconic Bath Road Studios building on a ten-year lease and is carrying out a major fit-out which will see the space become a New York loft apartment-style office. The company hopes the new space, which is around double the size of its existing office, will help it grow, with plans to become a team of 60. Founder and creative partner Spencer Buck said: “We are bursting at the seams in our current office and parking has always been an issue in Clifton, especially now with the residents’ parking zone in place. “Acknowledging we needed to find bigger premises, Bath Road Studios
● Bath Road Studios presented us with everything we need and more; it is a unique, creative space that truly fits the culture and vibe of our business. “It is laid-back and unpretentious – just like us! Plus it has ample parking and great cycling facilities which are an added bonus.”
The refit has been designed to complement the industrial look and feel of the building and uses materials that work well together in a modern office environment, such as wood and steel. Once complete, there will be a large breakout space, full kitchen with trestle tables, meeting pods and a fully stocked bar. London-based Cube Real Estate, which asset manages the building, has transformed the former ITV building following a £1.35 million refurbishment project. Current occupiers include ITV West Country, Friska, Hurricane Media, Films@59, Wattle, PUMA and Colour & Thing. Spencer said: “What we love about Bath Road Studios are the potential opportunities to collaborate with
other businesses in the building. We’ve already worked with Hurricane Media and look forward to meeting some of our neighbours once we’re in. “We were also very pleased to be offered flexible terms and reasonable rates, even at a time when the creative office market is as saturated as it is. All in all, we’re extremely excited about our upcoming move!” The company hopes to relocate to Bath Road Studios in early May once the refit has been completed. Ruari Laidlaw, asset manager at Cube Real Estate, said: “We are delighted to welcome Taxi Studio to Bath Road as we think their bold, stand-out creative work matches the bright contemporary spaces we have at the building; they complement each other very well.”
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Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Digital
Construction
Uncertainty Slight dip as jittery builders await election outcome
City firms among the most tech-savvy
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Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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ROWTH in the construction sector is being held up by jitters over the close race in the General Election, according to industry
experts. And they say if the outcome doesn’t see a stable government – whether coalition or majority party – that effect could continue. Gary Higgins and Ben Milsom, who are directors at GBRS Recruitment based in Weston-super-Mare, say they have seen a slowdown in the number of house builders, commercial builders and civil engineers recruiting for new staff. The firm recently hired an independent market research firm to carry out a report into employment intentions and regularly track growth and performance in the industry. Their most recent findings regarding a slowdown echo a recent Markit/CIPS construction PMI report which said the sector had “lost some of its swagger” with the rise in new orders easing in March compared to February. Gary said: “We’re at the coal face when it comes to the construction industry as we are a major supplier of labour to firms operating in this sector. “Whilst not dramatic we have noticed a slight dip in hiring intentions and a slowdown in the number of new homes being built; and from feedback we are putting this down to some clients delaying investment and build decisions until after the election.” Ben added: “Despite this slight dip in employment and growth, our recent survey shows that companies are buoyant going forward and confidence among UK builders and construction companies is high. “Post-election, unless a disaster ensues, we anticipate a return to normality.” But the construction companies themselves believe the slowdown should be temporary once stability returns to Government.
● Gary Higgins, left, and Ben Milsom; below, Gary Sheppard and Gemma Day
Gary Sheppard, chief executive of Helm Construction based in Aust, said: “As long as we get a stable Government following the election the construction sector will pick up again. “Activity might have fallen off a little as developers await political
outcomes, but pent up demand should get the sector moving again by the middle of the summer.” Gary said the sector hoped to get continued support from whoever is in power come May 8. He said: “The decision to extend permitted development rights for home extensions, unwanted agricultural buildings along with storage and distribution premises demonstrated the previous Government’s determination to build up the economy through the construction sector. “We believe this is likely to continue whatever colour government is voted in next month.” “The message seems to be underlining what you can do rather than what you can’t. Rather than triggering the free-for all some people were predicting PDR has resulted in perfectly good but under-used buildings and sites being brought back
into the public realm.” Helm Construction specialises in the regeneration of brown-field sites. Gary added: “The increasing numbers of planning approvals we saw in the early part of the year will pick up again once the election is out of the way, helping builders deliver the homes people need.” Gemma Day, director of Dowlas construction firm which is developing the Weston Gateway site, agreed. “Running up to an election there will always be a degree of uncertainty but from the enquiries we are fielding at our commercial development sites, things look positive,” she said. “The decision to extend permitted development rights for home extensions for example is a good move for house building and will most likely continue, whatever colour the government.”
Property
Former Post print hall to house 270 students Work is due to start on site in early 2016 and be finished in mid 2017. Chris Moore, director of Alaska, the developer of The Print Hall, said: “There is great demand for student accommodation in the city. “We have worked closely with local stakeholders and are extremely pleased with the decision.” The print works building was demolished in 2011 but the Bristol Post remains based in the adjoining office building. The development is part of a wider regeneration plan for the Temple Way and Jacob Street intersection being developed by Alaska on behalf of a UK Pension Fund client of Helix Property Advisors, the asset managers behind the scheme.
● BRISTOL’S business owners and entrepreneurs have been named as some of the most tech savvy in the UK – outside of London. A survey of small business owners carried out by Appsme.com, found that one in 13 entrepreneurs who have developed an app for their business are based in Bristol, placing it comfortably ahead of other major cities such as Manchester (one in 25) and Liverpool (one in 33). The number of start-ups in cities outside of London is increasing year-on-year and according to Nick Barnett, CEO at Appsme.com, these businesses are now closing in on the capital when it comes to embracing new technologies. The survey also found nearly two thirds (61 per cent) of small business owners say having an app boosts their monthly revenue. One in five also say the extra revenue driven directly by their business app is more than £500 per month. Nick said: “These figures speak for themselves and show that business apps significantly boost revenue for even the smallest of businesses. “It’s great to see business owners in Bristol embracing this technology as a tool to increase customer engagement and grow their monthly revenue.” London topped the poll with 31 per cent of small business apps having been created in the capital. Followed by Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow and Southampton.
Desk space
Demand for serviced office space soars ● DEMAND for serviced office space in Bristol is up by a third, according to a specialist search engine. Office Genie found searches for such space which is often popular with start-ups due to the lower overheads and commitments, rose 33 per cent in Bristol. Peter Ames, head of strategy at the firm, said London remained the UK’s start-up hub but other cities such as Bristol and Birmingham were on the up. “Praised as the ‘happiest’ place to live in the UK last year, Bristol has far more to offer than cider and tractors, and is fast becoming the tech hub of the West Country,” he said. The average cost of serviced desk space in Bristol is £230 a month, much cheaper than the £512 in London but higher than £222 in Birmingham.
Get in touch Assistant Editor (Business) Gavin Thompson Call 0117 934 3336 Email gavin.thompson @b-nm.co.uk Twitter @gavin_thompson1
● An artist’s image of what the student flats will look like on the corner of Temple Way
Advertising Robert Rodgerson Call07584 003229 Email robert.rodgerson @b-nm.co.uk Advertising Jane Chapman Call 01179 343025 Email jane.chapman @b-nm.co.uk
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THIS is the first look at what the student flats to be built on the site of this newspaper’s former printing press will look like. Alaska and Helix Property Advisors has been granted planning permission for The Print Hall – a student residential scheme on the corner of Temple Way. The scheme, designed by Russ Drage Architects, will create 270 student beds in three separate blocks. The development will include an 11-storey high-rise block. It will continue to change the nature of the area, from largely offices to a mix with residential. Student accommodation provider Unite has a large block of flats across the Old Market roundabout.
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Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Bristol Media Barometer Survey
Creative sector Our star is set to go on rising Oh}pu \ovtwzvu
Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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RISTOL’S creative companies came out of the recession leaner and hungry for success but a talent shortage could begin to slow growth. Those were among the findings of the annual Barometer Survey by Bristol Media, which represents many companies in the sector. More than half (53 per cent) of businesses surveyed said they plan to employ more people in the next 12 months. However, 88 per cent said it was as hard or harder than this time last year to find the right staff, with over a quarter (28 per cent) citing the increasing number of people who are freelance or self-employed as the reason for this. This could be one of the reasons why companies are working more closely together. Almost half of member agencies surveyed (45 per cent) said they collaborated with other agencies often or very often with 67 per cent agreeing that Bristol’s creative community is quite or very open to collaboration. And of those that do collaborate, 53 per cent have worked with between two and five agencies in the past year alone. As well as working together, those
surveyed share a collective optimism with 66 per cent feeling more confident about their business prospects compared to this time last year. Many members also reported that the recession had forced them to streamline their business models, and that with the economy improving, they are now stronger than ever to benefit from new opportunities. Bristol Media chairman Paul Appleby, pictured, said: “As an organisation that has long lauded the collaborative nature of the South West’s creative industry, it comes as no surprise that this year’s Barometer reinforces that belief. “I think it’s fair to say that we are one of the most collaborative creative sectors in the country, if not internationally, and this plays a huge part in the high quality of creative work coming out of the region.” He added: “The South West creative sector should be feeling confident. Our star is set to continue rising with bigger, better opportunities ahead for all. In January this year, Bristol was named one of three cities outside London with the best growth prospects by the Creative Industries Council. ” Another hot topic tackled by the Barometer is research and development tax credits. Despite potentially being able to claim thousands of pounds back on qualifying R&D activities as a repayment from the HMRC, many creative businesses are missing out due to a lack of awareness.
● Kinneir Dufort staff have received a Queen’s Award for Enterprise
Global success earns Kinneir Dufort royal reward ● ONE member of Bristol’s thriving creative industries isn’t content with growing its business at home. Kinneir Dufort was one of a number of local firms this week given the Queen’s Award for Enterprise. The difference is that most of the others are in engineering or manufacturing, while Kinneir is a city centre design agency. Creative industries are not traditional exporters, but the award proves it can be done and suggests others could be well placed to succeed overseas.
The company, which employs 75 people, has had success with its ambition to bring together beautiful design and problem solving technology in fields as diverse as medical instruments and sauce bottles, or clocks and cookware. Managing director Jim Orkney said: “Design and technology are fields where Britain leads the world. By integrating the two together and combining these with user research and advanced proto-typing, Kinneir Dufort has developed a rare and sought-after design capability that’s
Aviation
● easyJet UK Commercial Manager Ali Gayward, MEP for South West England and Gibraltar Ashley Fox and Bristol Airport Aviation Director Shaun Browne at the launch Pic: Dan Regan
Five more routes as easyJet backs Bristol THE biggest carrier at Bristol Airport has pledged to continue investing locally after another five new routes launched at the weekend. The move means easyJet now has 12 aircraft based in Bristol, taking the number of permanent crew and pilots here to 480. The new flights and plane will also support more jobs indirectly at the airport, based in North Somerset. The airline’s commercial manager Ali Gayward told Business the new routes would cater for a mix of business and leisure travel. The routes fly direct to Bilbao,
“Each time we invest more, we get a great level of return,” she said. “We get great support from the community. “Bristol is a star performer for us. We have other airports keen to expand easyJet’s presence but we will focus our growth here in Bristol because that’s where our customers say they want us to fly from.” Two more routes, to Zante and Catania, launch next month. Bristol Airport aviation director Shaun Browne added: “Not only will the new destinations provide an improved route network for passengers, the continued growth will bring extra job opportunities and economic benefits to the region.”
Porto, Gibraltar, Lanzarote and Isle of Man and are expected to carry 185,000 passengers a year. In total, the airline flies 3.4 million passengers from Bristol each year. The city is its biggest base outside of London and has even more destinations – 53 – than the firm’s main base at Luton. Ali said the company had grown its presence because the airport had proved popular with passengers choosing to fly from the city rather than schlep to London, particularly for two to three hour flights within Europe in which easyJet specialises.
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in demand globally. “We aren’t just exporting design, we’re taking an entire process out to the world; one that blends enquiry, creativity and technical delivery – it’s a completely joined up way of thinking about user and brand experience. “Certainly, international companies have been beating a path to our development facilities here in Bristol for a number of years, and the Queen’s Award is a fantastic recognition of the skills and achievements of our team.”
Find out more Taster session 29 April, UWE, Frenchay Campus, Bristol www.uwe.ac.uk/bristolmba
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Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Bristol Post Business Awards 2015
Steaking a claim Restaurant boss counting on his recipe for success
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Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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PENED in November 2013, Steak of the Art aimed to redefine what eating out meant in Bristol. The brainchild of entrepreneur and trained chef Steve Bowen, the Harbourside venue has proved so popular with foodies and art enthusiasts from across the city that Steve has already opened a second venue with more in the pipeline. It’s why Steve is entering this year’s Bristol Post Business Awards in the Start Up Business of the Year category. Pitched at those looking for pure foodie pleasure, the restaurant, which is on the Harbourside, looks to combine an artistic atmosphere with some of the best steaks served anywhere in the South West. The restaurant itself is a living gallery including a selection of booths which can sit up to six people. This includes an Alice in Wonderland themed booth carved from a single tree trunk and a Brit Pop inspired table complete with spilt paint! A Parisian themed private dining area is suited to family celebrations, get-togethers or meetings while the main restaurant aims to be one the most inspiring places to eat in Bristol. Steve said: “The success of the Bristol venue in its first year surpassed our expectations. “Since opening in Bristol we have grown a steady base of repeat customers as well as attracting visitors to the city. It goes to show that by providing simple but quality food with friendly and excellent service is
● Steve Bowen, owner of Steak of the Art, says the success of the restaurant has surpassed expectations a winning formula. “The best critiques are by far your customers and it seems the people of Bristol like what we’re doing here.” The importance of sourcing the very best ingredients is a real labour of love for the team and is reflected in
the quality of the meat and fish all of which comes from the South West. All steak served in Bristol comes from Warson’s farm in Launceston, Devon, while the fish is supplied from Fish for Thought in Bodmin, Cornwall. The venue also serves local beer
including the ever growing range from the Bristol Beer Factory. The art gallery is separate to the restaurant area so people can come in and look around the paintings, which are all for sale. Deliberately combining different
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THE CATEGORIES ● Innovator of the Year, sponsored by Aon ● Export Award, sponsored by Mazars ● Marketing Campaign of the Year, sponsored by Jeff Way Electrical Services ● Best Creative or Technological Business, sponsored by Next Generation Data ● Young Entrepreneur of the Year, sponsored by Renishaw ● Lifetime achievement award, sponsored by Punter Southall ● Retailer of the Year, sponsored by Broadmead Bristol BID ● Family Business of the Year, sponsored by BOM Group ● Large Business of the Year, sponsored by Smith & Williamson ● Small Business of the Year, sponsored by Lloyds Bank ● Start-up Business of the Year, sponsored by Jordans ● Environmental Business Award, sponsored by Nuffield Health ● Contribution to the Community, sponsored by First Great Western ● Customer Service Award, sponsored by Destination Bristol ● Leisure and Tourism Business of the Year, sponsored by QBE
styles and artists, it is a thought-provoking and exciting mix showcasing individual artists, genres and local talent. Steve added: “Harbourside was the ideal location as it was nearing completion and was starting to attract more people, workers and pleasure, to wander through the pedestrian boulevards and walkways. “We’ve invested close to £2 million in the past 18 months employing nearly 60 people and at a time when business investment in the UK is in decline makes our success even more notable. “Looking forward we now plan to open more venues with an investment programme of around £7.5 million over the next five years. “Bristol however will always be our spiritual home as this is where it all started.”
Sponsor profile
Keeping area safe and clean for shoppers
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THE Broadmead Business Improvement District (BID) works with retailers to promote Bristol Shopping Quarter and to ensure that the area is safe, clean and well-maintained. Broadmead had been a BID area since 2005; in 2013 businesses voted ‘Yes’ to the third BID which will run until 2018. Retailers pay a levy which is ring-fenced to carry out projects approved by the retailers – currently the BID focuses on a variety of marketing campaigns as well as enhanced cleansing initiatives for the Broadmead area.
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Wednesday, April 22, 2015
The Big Interview
IT’S A BREESE... FROM DINNER PART
If you’ve attended a networking event in Bristol, there’s a good chance you’ve met Jamie Breese. Gavin Thompson catches up with the man behind the city’s biggest business exhibition
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OR most of us, if we tired of picking up the drinks tab from having friends round for dinner, we’d either ask them to bring a bottle or politely suggest we went to their’s next time. Instead, Jamie Breese decided to turn his social occasions into an informal networking event. Within eight years what started as a few friends around for drinks has evolved into a two-day business show with 91 exhibitors and up to 3,000 people. “I would host barbecues on my roof terrace in Clifton. I realised ‘these are becoming quite busy and I’m paying for the Pimm’s so I decided to make them non-commercial parties,” said Jamie. “Cool people were coming along
Vital statistics
Name: Jamie Breese Age: 42 Born: West London Education: Came to Bristol to study design at UWE First job: Washing cars when I was 12 or 13, I used to find it therapeutic. I would put flyers on windscreens and go round West London on a push bike charging £1.50 a car. There’s an entrepreneurial streak in my family. Title: Broadcaster, antiques and collectibles columnist, business events organiser and charity auctioneer.
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with a story to tell, a few relationships were springing up and I thought, ‘wow this is cool’, so I decided to hire out a venue and invite everyone to bring along one other person. “It was the start at the beginning of the recession. I realised that when people are battening down the hatches in an economic downturn, they really value face-to-face contact. “It’s not just because marketing budgets are stretched but because they feel like part of the community where every business has been affected by the recession.” The events grew into bigger networking events, often black tie and with what he calls “a bit of sizzle” and last year Jamie held the first Business Showcase South West. The all-day event staged at Colston Hall was big and bold, it saw Karen Brady headlining, along with a strong line-up of other business
● Jamie Breese, inset, and with Ajith Jayawickrema at Business Showcase South West 2014 at Colston Hall; below left, Karen Brady figures and entrepreneurs. It was certainly a risk, particularly as it was funded with his own money – “I sold a few bits and bobs to make it happen” he says, but one Jamie was prepared to take. “We’d come out of recession,” he said. “I thought now is the time to do a live event using the invitation list I’ve built through other events but reach out further across the South West. “It worked so well it gave me the confidence to make it a two day event, which allows me to have more speakers and more exhibitors overall.” Colston Hall is a tricky venue. It’s not a big open hall but lots of rooms of different sizes connected by what can be confusing corridors. “Feedback was divided,” admits Jamie. “Some people said they prefer a big venue all in one place
while others liked to go and explore. We’ve listened and made changes. We’ve game-ified delegation, if you go to each of the five zones and get a stamp there’s a prize draw. We’re going to print a map this time too and there are lots of signs pointing people to the different zones. “I’ve struck several stands which we discovered were sub prime and created a seminar room instead.” He certainly has no plans to change the venue. “Colston Hall is brilliant,” said Jamie. “It’s an iconic building mixing old and new. It is unique, built with epic environmental credentials, it’s in Bristol, which is the capital of the South West and it has parking and good bus access. Everything points to using that venue.” The event is free to delegates, the revenue comes from exhibitors and sponsors. But with a big venue and big name speakers, did it make any money? “The event was very well received with delegates and sponsors,” said
Jamie. “For me it was a learning curve and I’m pleased to say that this year I am making a profit. And that’s not bad in year two.” Jamie is a big networker, not just at his own events he’s a regular at others too. Some people have question the value of such events in a digital age. “Someone said to me, why are you doing a big business event, isn’t that what Linkedin is for now?” said
Jamie. “But even with that digital connection people still want to meet. People trust people they have met and more likely to do business with people who they have met. “I suspect the future of large business to business events will involve a large element of digital and social media.” Perhaps one reason Jamie enjoys networking is that his own career has been so varied, so he has plenty
to talk abou nist on anti national new 15 years, ap shows, bee e-Bay and is tioneer. That’s a r the Lord M Dinner at t giving away chance to b
The Lord Mayor of Bristol Charity Gala Dinner ● Bristol’s leading business people are supporting The Lord Mayor of Bristol’s Charity Gala Dinner through sponsorship, auction donations and by booking tables. The event, held at the Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel on April 30, is supported by the Bristol Post.
It provides the city’s ‘movers and shakers’ with the ideal opportunity to entertain clients and to network, whilst raising money for The Lord Mayor of Bristol’s Children Appeal. There is a drinks reception followed by a sumptuous three-course dinner, world-class
entertainmen Director of Bu South West J Tickets are please go to galadinner20 for the waitin info@galadinn offers of supp
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Wednesday, April 22, 2015
TIES TO SHOWCASE
ut. He has been a columiques and collectibles in wspapers for more than ppeared in various TV en an ambassador for s a regular charity auc-
role he’ll be reprising at Mayor’s Appeal Charity the end of this month, ay prizes including the be editor of the Bristol
Working day: I work flexi hours so a quiet day could be a few hours then if it’s a sunny day I might go for a drive to see some friends in Bristol. Or a busy day could be 12 to 18 hours long. I did that for most of last year to build a new business.
My downtime Downtime: I mix business and pleasure. I host a non-commercial dinner party with friends about once a month. Somewhere like the Lido or Steak of the Art, you get great mix of people. We’ve had the Lord Mayor of Bristol come along. I don’t enjoy holidays. I’m not a workaholic but I get too excited about what I’m doing to enjoy holidays. For me the perfect day is getting on motorbike or in the car, driving to Clevedon for coffee or the Brecons or Cotswolds. A day on a road trip is all the holiday I need. TV: I bought a TV three years ago. Previously I didn’t have one! I’ve started to engage with documentaries, the world comes to you. The House That I Live In about the war on drugs was a real eye opener.
Demand sparks speculative development DWINDLING empty space for industrial and distribution businesses has led to the return of speculative development in the sector. That’s according to the latest Industrial Intelligence, Spring 2015 report from commercial property adviser Bilfinger GVA. The first signs of speculative development have begun to appear, with a 37,000 sq ft development by St Modwen at Access 18 in Avonmouth, as a direct result of the lack of availability. There is also a new 40,000 sq ft development in Yate and projects in Warmley and Longwell Green have been completed. Gloucester has also seen significant activity around J12 of the M5, and Swindon has followed suit at Westlea. Paul Hobbs, director, industrial and distribution, at Bilfinger GVA in Bristol, said: “The last six months of 2014 and early 2015 were notable for steadily increasing occupier demand and falling supply, it is not surprising that once again speculative development is back on the agenda in a big way for the first time in eight years. “The South West has an excellent supply of
â—? Central Park, Avonmouth
‘oven-ready’ sites such as Central Park, Avonmouth, where we recently built a new 176,000 sq ft facility for Farmfoods distribution. “The issue is the 12-month delay to provide a building, and occupiers will have to compromise on quality with ageing stock until the market catches up. “Businesses need to act quickly when they see something new to the market that they like, as it might not be around for long.�
Drinks
Cider maker Thatchers eyes China move THATCHERS Cider is embarking on a trip to China to explore the potential for introducing its Somerset cider to the market. With help from UK Trade and Investment and the China Britain Business Council, Thatchers will be taking a three-week trip around the country, with visits to retailers and distributors in seven major cities including Schenzhen, Shangai, Qingdao and Beijing.
Managing director Martin Thatcher said: “China already enjoys wine and beer imported from Europe. We feel that the time is now right for us to look to introduce Thatchers Somerset cider to them too. China represents a huge opportunity for us; working with the CBBC and UKTI has given us valuable insight into the market and has helped us to understand the developing tastes of the Chinese consumer.�
Hero/inspiration: Filmmaker David Lynch, below. My life changed when I saw the Elephant Man. I would love to have met Alfred Hitchcock, full of contradictions but a great filmmaker. I’m also inspired by the character of Bristol, the richness, variety and sense of independent spirit. Karen Brady, who spoke at last year’s Showcase.
Post for a day. “When it comes to Bristol, the business community has absolutely come through,� he said. “I was having sleepless nights in January about this but we sold out of tickets in about a week. and we’ve got a raffle like you wouldn’t believe. “The event committee has reached out more to the business community this year and the hope is that this event has a legacy and will get better and better.� Jamie volunteered to join the committee after hearing about the 1,700 children in Bristol who go without things like a Christmas present each year. His involvement goes beyond the event itself on April 30 – he has been using his business contacts to secure sponsors and raffle prizes. Then the Business Showcase South West, which is free for pre-booked delegates (www.showcase2015.com) takes place at Colston Hall in Bristol on May 14 and 15. What comes after that?
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“Maybe a rest, but I’m no good at holidays,� says Jamie. Then I’ll have a really seriously think about the Showcase South West. Could this be twice a year, could it be bigger, could I hire staff ? Is it a sustainable business?� Whatever the future holds, it will no doubt be interesting. And, if nothing else, will give Jamie something else to talk about.
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nt, and auction with usiness Showcase Jamie Breese. e sold out, but https:// 015.eventbrite.co.uk ng list and email ner2015.com with port for the charity.
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www.bristolpost.co.uk
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Keeping talent |
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HAPPY TALK COMPETITION REVEALS
A happy workforce is a productive one. Gavin Thompson talks to a number of successful Bristol businesses about how they keep the team smiling
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S a pay rise the way to a happy workforce? Dan Price, the boss of Gravity Payments, clearly thinks so. He recently raised the firm’s minimum wage to $50,000 and pledged to bring the lowest earners up to $70,000 (£47,000) by 2017. You can be pretty sure there were plenty of smiles in of the Seattle-based tech company when he made the announcement. Certainly a well-paid workforce will help you hang onto experienced and talented people. But if you bankrupt the business in the process, it won’t do anyone any good. How else can we keep our workers smiling? Design agency IA Wylde wanted to find out how our environment can improve office life, so ran a com-
“ We can grow in this business (Shiner) from the warehouse to the head of a department. There are smiling faces that greet us daily. Karen McMahon
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petition to find Bristol’s happiest workplace. Director Maxine Bennett said the results were illuminating. “This competition has flagged up all kinds of reasons why staff are happy at work,” she said. “Company ethos, respect and social activities rank alongside beautifully designed, creative spaces. “These two aspects of working life tend to run hand in hand to provide the, almost, perfect formula for a content and productive workforce.” She added: “We’ve had a fantastic selection of different organisations enter including several big name companies that are real Bristol institutions. We’re delighted companies have engaged with our competition and the response pays testament to the fact the South West is a hotbed of happy, creative teams!” The winner was Shiner, a skateboard manufacturer based in Aztec West, Bristol. What makes this family business special? Karen McMahon, who submitted the application said: “Shiner is a family business and they tell you this from the get go. I thought initially it was to warn me that if you’re not family, then you’re not anyone. Instead they were telling me that I was now part of the Shiner family. We’re listened to, genuinely. “We can grow in this business from
● Shiner operations director Rich Staite with the Happiest Workplace award the warehouse to the head of a department. There are smiling faces that greet us daily. “We drive from all over the South West because we want to be here. We work in teams but we all work for the common good of the business and we’re rewarded for it in various ways. I’m proud to be here. “ Other positive aspects listed at Shiner, which employs 70 people, was a good training and induction programme, the chance to progress shown by the fact one of the directors started in the warehouse, free park-
ing, a light airy building, sociable people, a ping pong table and a bonus scheme. Some of those will be more achievable than others. If you’re based in Clifton, free staff parking is a pipe dream and if your office is an old building it won’t be light an airy, but it might have character you can make into a feature. You need to use what you have. Runners up in the contest were magazine publisher Immediate Media and Aardman Animations. The latter’s entry, submitted by Jo
Pic: Dave Betts Jo Johnson said: “After 14 years at Aardman, I still look forward to coming to work in the morning. I work on reception and I still get a buzz from the look of delight on faces of visitors as they first enter the building and spot Wallace & Gromit. “I feel very lucky to work for a company that is held so dear in the hearts of the general
public. Regardless of what department anyone works in their input is always valued by the owners, making us all feel part of the bigger picture and making us all happy ambassadors for the company. Plus There’s always seems to be some very valid cause for celebration at Aardman, requiring mass gatherings for cake in reception, there’s nothing like a cupcake to draw a crowd!” Not every company has
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Wednesday, April 22, 2015
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WHAT CREATES HAPPY WORKPLACE
● Staff at interior design firm Wylde IA, which ran the happy workplace contest, from left, Rob Grace, Maxine Bennett, Lavra Benito and Amy Stone; left and below, happy staff at Shiner
● People Source chairman Jason Baker and MD Tim Allen playing the rally game in their office
feel of an office. But it takes more than that. IT recruitment firm People Source has both those things but crucially, they don’t just sit in the corner unloved. Founder Jason Baker can be found on the Sega rally game and likes to challenge new staff members to a race as something of an ice breaker. Jason said the key to motivating the team was about culture, the games are just a tool. “The culture has always existed and runs deep throughout the whole
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the motivational talents of Wallace & Gromit to call on. Immediate Media’s entry highlighted more accessible elements such as having a day off on your birthday, good communication with bosses and three days each year working in another part of the business to broaden experiences. A good working environment is becoming something more bosses are considering. There’s a trend for companies which want to emulate the success of Google to do that with some funky office furniture. A pool table, video games and so on can change the
of the organisation,” he said. “Moving to a new, bigger office gave us the opportunity to cement that further by creating better break out spaces where people would have fun together, develop closer relationships and help integrate new people quickly.” Similarly many firms aspire to be John Lewis, forgetting that the core value behind the success of the department store is not its price-match policy but its shared ownership model, which makes its “partners” a part of the business. The annual profit share announcement is the biggest day in the store’s calendar. Lucy Ramseyer, the head of the store’s Cribbs Causeway branch, said: “Because we are employee-owned we are a long-term business. “We don’t have to think just about tomorrow but we have to make sure the business is fit for future generations of partners and customers to make sure that bonus envelope is still there to open in 15 years.” Jeremy Gumbley is chief technology officer at Creditcall, another successful and growing Bristol company, which specialises in payment technology. “For me a good working environment means you get great people and give them a sense of purpose,” he said. “People get really invested when they see the product they are working late or giving up their weekend for is genuinely changing things. “In our case when they can see it being used around the world. “If you nurture talent and show them their value, then they can create amazing things.” Whether it’s purpose or ping-pong, the key would seem to be people, and finding out what makes them tick. Though a whopping pay rise won’t do any harm, just in case the boss is reading this…
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Wednesday, April 22, 2015
In pictures Bristol Distinguished Address Series - Arnolfini
State of the art Arnolfini link with UWE really exciting, says Sir Peter
20 Ways to Grow Your Business: Seminar on how to structure a business for sustainable and profitable growth. Ashton Court Mansion, BS41 9JN, 7.45am today. Contact Mazars. Bristol PA Network: Communicate with clarity with PA trainer Lindsay Taylor at the Bristol Hotel, 5.30-8pm, today. Tickets via Eventbrite.
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NEW partnership between UWE and the Arnolfini could benefit both the local economy and quality of life in Bristol. That’s the view of Sir Peter Bazalgette, chair of Arts Council England, who gave the most recent talk at the Bristol Distinguished Address Series, which was delivered at the Arnolfini. The agreement will see UWE arts students working within the gallery as the two organisations share resources. Sir Peter said the deal was one of a number of “really exciting partnerships” being developed around the country between arts and education organisations. “Universities are broadening the definition of what they do,” he said. “They are saying ‘we are placemakers, we invest in our community. “UWE will have students in the Arnolfini, doing their graphic design study, mixing with artists and the public, while the Arnolfini will benefit from the injection of young enthusiasm and talent. This is an example of that strategic alliance.” Sir Peter said Bristol deserved a quality arts space, which the agreement had helped secure. “It’s no secret the Arnolfini has had problems,” he said. “It has a new team now and this partnership means the
Business diary
Financial Planning Clinic: One-to-one advice on financial issues and questions from chartered accountant Tony James at The Hive, Westonsuper-Mare. Free to pre-start businesses and those trading less than a year or £40. Tomorrow. Book at www.northsomersetenterprise agency.co.uk.
● Sir Peter Bazalgette, chair of Arts Council England, third from left, with guests university is helping to perpetuate a quality gallery in this is city. It’s important for the city that the Arnolfini doesn’t just survive but prospers. “The creative students who work here will be inspired and set up creative businesses here that will not just benefit the economy but improve the quality of life.”
Arts Council England is the development agency for arts and culture. It receives about £650 million from taxpayers and the Lotto to invest in big and small arts organisations. “It’s a lot of money in one sense and very little in another,” said Sir Peter. “We spend £112 billion on the health service.” Money is given out through com-
Pictures: Michael Lloyd
Bristol Connected: The Bristol Post’s regular networking event takes place in the Top Bar at Colston Hall. Hosted by communications agency JBP with speakers including Jim Hutchinson from Fusion Processing and informal networking. Sold out!
petitive applications made against set criteria. Three-year funding agreements are made with larger organisations and one off lottery grants to smaller ones. But Sir Peter says it’s not subsidy. “I don’t like the word subsidy,” he says. “It’s a passive word. Investment has dynamism, it expects an output, a result. We are investing.”
Financial Planning Clinic: One-to-one advice on financial issues and questions from chartered accountant Tony James at The Hive, Weston-super-Mare. Free to pre-start businesses and those trading less than a year or £40. Thursday, April 30. Book at www.northsomersetenterprisea gency.co.uk. The Business Case for Agile and Flexible Working: Flexibility and Agile – just buzz words or actual good business practice? Expert panel shares insights and tips. Organised by NearDesk at Colston Office Centre, Colston Avenue, 4-6pm on Thursday, April 30. Register via Eventbrite. The Lord Mayor’s Charity Dinner: Business leaders will enjoy a drinks reception followed by a three-course dinner, entertainment and an auction, in aid of The Lord Mayor of Bristol’s Children Appeal, on Thursday, April 30. Add your name to the waiting list at https://galadinner 2015.eventbrite.co.uk and email info@galadinner2015.com for sponsorship opportunities or to donate auction and raffle prizes. Eat Drink Bristol Fashion Sustainability Summit: 150 delegates will come together in the tipis in Queen Square to discuss how the food industry can strive to operate more sustainably and position the city as the UK capital of sustainable catering. Wednesday, May 6. Tickets from www.eatdrink bristolfashion.com.
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Young Enterprise West of England Area Final: May 7, 3.30-8pm. Eight finalists from West of England schools vie to represent the area at the South West final on June 19. To attend, contact Caroline Tarbuck, caroline.tarbuck@y-e.org.uk. 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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Wednesday, April 22, 2015
In pictures Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors South West Awards 2015
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Grand designs Some of the buildings in running for surveyors’ regional awards
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HESE new or restored buildings are in the running for awards from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors. The new Keynsham Civic Centre, the Hive Business centre in Weston-super-Mare and the Simply Health office on the edge of Clifton Down are among the new buildings nominated. Restoration projects up for gongs include the Art Deco Pegasus House, which has been brought back into use by Airbus as a base for hundreds of the plane-maker’s engineers. Eight category winners and a Project of the Year will be selected from the 42 shortlisted entries to the South West awards. The winners from the Building Conservation, Community Benefit, Infrastructure, Design through Innovation and the Regeneration categories will then be invited to represent the region and compete against projects from across the rest of the UK, at the overall RICS Awards in London. The 2014 South West Project of the Year title went to Porthmeor Artists’ Studios and Fisherman’s Cellars. Lynn Robinson, regional director RICS South, said: “The quality of entries received this year is truly outstanding and clearly demonstrates the fantastic work being carried out by property professionals. There is a wealth and variety of inspirational new projects and re-
THE AWARDS SHORTLIST Building Conservation ✔ Pegasus House, Bristol ✔ Poulet Memorial Chapel, Hinton St George ✔ Restronguet Barton Barns, Falmouth ✔ South Quay, Hayle ✔ St Giles House, Wimborne St Giles ✔ Swindon Designer Outlet, Swindon ✔ The Mowhay, Withiel ✔ The Walronds, Cullompton Commercial ✔ Simply Health House, Bristol ✔ The Hive, Weston-superMare ✔ Treleigh Business Park, Redruth ✔ Latchways Warehouse, Distribution and Production Facility, Devizes ● Above, Simply Heath House, on the edge of Clifton Down; inset, BBC presenter Alex Lovell
Community Benefit ✔ Fisherton House, Salisbury ✔ Lanhydrock Cafe and Cycle Club, Bodmin ✔ Roberts Close. Mevagissey ✔ South Quay, Hayle ✔ The Lantern Community Centre, Ringwood ✔ The Lee Centre, Bath ✔ Design through Innovation ✔ Edge O’Cliff, St Ives ✔ Bristol Airport, Bristol ✔ National Composites Centre, Bristol ✔ Royal William Yard Staircase, Plymouth
generated developments, I am sure it will be a challenging judging process.” The South West Awards ceremony takes place at the Bristol Marriott Hotel on Thursday, May 21, hosted by BBC presenter Alex Lovell.
● The National Composite Centre (NCC) phase two
Infrastructure ✔ Preston School ASD Unit, Yeovil ✔ Walham 400KV Electricity Substation Flood Defence, Gloucester Regeneration ✔ Keynsham Civic Centre, Bristol ✔ South Quay, Hayle ✔ Marine Station, Plymouth ✔ Junction 3 Baptist Mills Court, Bristol
● Bristol Airport reception
Residential ✔ Edge O’Cliff, St Ives ✔ Bury Road, Poole ✔ Green Tree Court, Exeter ✔ The Old Gasworks, Lower Slaughter ✔ Cargo 2, Plymouth ✔ Dawson Close, Plymouth ✔ Roberts Close, Mevagissey
● Keynsham Civic Centre
● The Hive, Weston-super-Mare
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Tourism & Leisure ✔ Godolphin Arms, Marazion ✔ River Cottage Headquarters, Axminster ✔ Welcome Building, Westonbirt Arboretum ✔ Lanhydrock Cafe and Cycle Club, Bodmin ✔ Haynes Motor Museum. Sparkford ✔ Royal William Yard Staircase, Plymouth
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Wednesday, April 22, 2015
The back page
Your digest of the week in business
People ● Four months after reopening to the public following an extensive refurbishment, Clevedon Hall has appointed James Matthews to its growing staff as operations manager. Since starting his hospitality career in Concierge, James has worked in all areas of hotels, specialising in events before taking on full venue and operations management roles. James, below, said he is looking forward to creating something special at the Victorian mansion. He said: “I’d been aware of the developments at Clevedon Hall from a distance over the past year so as I saw the role advertised, I proceeded to research the property and after an initial telephone discussion with Peter, I was hooked. “I have overseen many projects, mobilisations and new openings and it is always a special time in the history of any property, but the real excitement lies in the journey ahead as we look to achieve all our shared aspirations and create something truly special not just in the South West, but also nationally.” ● Law firm Ashfords has increased its trainee solicitor intake thanks to continued growth. The firm is now looking for five additional trainees to start in September 2015 and in September 2016, and 15 in total to start in September 2017. It has invested in an internal learning and development programme, the Ashfords Academy, to help staff expand their knowledge and skills base. Ruth Murray, partner of the firm, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer additional trainee intake places for Ashfords, as it reflects our continued success and growth within the firm. We have always regarded our trainees as our future partners, so this is an investment in the firm’s future.” ● Law firm Clarke Willmott, meanwhile, is growing its private client services with the appointment
● Law firm Ashfords has increased its trainee solicitor intake of Gillian Kennedy-Smith who has been appointed as a senior associate. Gillian, pictured right, who will be based in Bristol, qualified in 2006 and joins from Carey Olsen in Guernsey, where she worked in one of the largest private client teams in the Channel Islands. She specialises in advising trust companies, directors and business owners on the best ways to protect wealth across generations, especially where foreign assets or other international aspects of their estates are concerned. Anthony Fairweather, partner and managing director of the private client team said: “Gillian will lead the international estate planning across our team, which is a growing part of our portfolio. “She undoubtedly strengthens our client focused approach which has led to a 65 per cent growth in turnover in the last three years, making us one of the largest private client teams in the South West region.” ● Businessman Mike Beesley has been announced as the new chair of The Prince’s Trust South West Leadership Group (SWLG), which brings business leaders together to support the next generation of aspiring entrepreneurs. Mike is the CEO of Bristol-based recruitment organisation Resource Solutions Group (RSG). He takes over from previous chair Mark Mason, boss of Bristol-based app development company Mubaloo.
The role is to work closely with The Prince’s Trust team to raise awareness of the charity’s enterprise programme. The chair is also responsible for helping to grow membership, seek out events and opportunities and generate interest in the group’s activities. For most, the primary reason for becoming a member is to invest in young people and inspire them to realise their business dreams. Sally Mabbutt from The Prince’s Trust, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mike into this role as he has been an active and energetic supporter of The Prince’s Trust. “He is passionate about helping young people and getting them into meaningful employment so that they can fulfill their ambitions. “We are looking forward to working with him and know he will bring a great deal of expertise and business savvy with him that our aspiring team of entrepreneurs will thrive on.” All funds raised through the SWLG go towards The Prince’s Trust’s Enterprise Programme – a tailored scheme that helps unemployed young people set up in business. Mike said: “The overall aim of The Prince’s Trust SWLG is to practically provide support for those young people who are ambitious and want to do well but who, for one reason or another, need a bit of financial help and business advice. “By doing this, I believe we will not only help these individuals and the people around them but invest in the future of our region, its continued innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and, in turn, economic welfare.” ● Meade King has appointed senior solicitor Alex Lyttle to their dispute resolution team. “I’m delighted to be joining Meade
King, a firm with a longstanding reputation in Bristol and an excellent relationship with many dynamic and successful business people,” said Alex. “I look forward to developing my expertise in commercial litigation and employment law and being part of such a talented legal team.” Bristol firm Meade King specialises in commercial law as well as a range of services for private individuals. Its recent move to larger offices on Welsh Back has enabled it to expand. John Vasey, partner and head of dispute resolution, said: “Our commercial expertise, strong track record of delivering winning results and high level of client care has meant that we will be looking to recruit further this year in order to meet demand. Having Alex on board will mean we can engage with more clients and continue to deliver an excellent professional service.”
Deals ● Bristol-based chartered surveyor and property consultancy Sanderson Weatherall has won a contract to provide valuation services on the Friars Walk retail and leisure destination in Newport, one of only three major UK shopping centres opening this year. The firm’s valuation specialist retail and development department have been appointed by Newport City Council for the 390,000 sq ft development in the city centre, which is under construction and due to open in November. Mark Sheridan, associate partner at the firm’s Bristol office, said he was delighted.
Opinion
We need urgent action to end our housing crisis
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HERE’S a housing crisis happening across the region which means people and families are struggling to find the homes they need to rent or to buy at a price they can afford. With the General Election looming, it’s a critical time to remind voters in our South West heartland that housing should be a major concern for them – whether they are owners, potential buyers or renters. The scale of the housing crisis, nationally and on a local level in the region, is out of control. Escalating house prices are pricing many people out of the home ownership market altogether and rising private sector rents make it hard for
Vpjr Pvyul
Chief executive Knightstone Housing
people to increase their disposable income at a time when wages are rising more slowly, if at all. Statistics from the National Housing Federation (NHF) reveal that since 1980, property prices have risen on average by 6.9 per cent a year – outstripping average wages and making that first step onto the property ladder much more difficult. Many are renting a home while they save for a deposit, which is typ-
ically 19 per cent of the value of a home. At the same time the demand for homes is rising – the result of a growing population and shrinking average household size. The region is being hit incredibly hard by the housing crisis. According to the NHF: Over the next 20 years, 439,000 new households are expected to form in the South West. At the current rate of house building, this would leave a shortfall of almost 200,000 by 2025. The average house price in Bristol is now close to £230,000, with rural areas commanding a premium. While the average house price in the region is now close to £230,000,
earnings are among the lowest in England, making house prices on average nearly ten times annual incomes. This has a knock-on effect on renters, too. Private sector tenants pay an average of 40 per cent of their income on housing costs. The housing crisis is getting progressively worse. The very nature of towns, villages, communities and families are changing as young people and key workers are forced out of the area by spiralling house prices. The General Election provides an opportunity for voters to help put housing back on the political agenda, and begin the work to fix the housing
“Our multi-disciplinary team, encompassing valuation, retail and development consultancy has a wealth of experience in schemes of this nature, which we feel gave us an edge on our competitors,” he said.
Places ● Real estate firm Colliers International has secured new premises for its south west regional hub in Bristol, moving to Templeback, close to both Temple Meads station and the shops of Cabot Circus. Tim Davies, head of office, said: “As a major international real estate adviser it was important that we operate within a building that reflects our position in the market. “This statement building fuses modern design with traditional Victorian architecture to provide the perfect solution for our requirements. “As strong supporters of Bristol’s European Green Capital we are especially pleased that the design of this building ticks so many boxes in terms of its environmental credentials. “Having a sustainable approach to the way we operate continues to be a key factor in many of our business choices and our move to Templeback reinforces this ethos. “This policy will ensure we have a great working environment and attract the best possible employees. Moreover our clear commitment to working sustainably is in line with the philosophy of all our major clients.” The building is owned by Benson Elliot.
crisis. We also want to make sure that voters understand that this crisis can be fixed if politicians choose to. We want their help to show politicians that we need more homes built in the region and action taken until everyone, everywhere, has a decent home. We need more people to add to that growing voice, by calling on their local parliamentary candidates to make housing an election priority, or by tweeting support with the hashtag #HomesForBritain. The time has come to end the housing crisis. We’re calling on the next government to publish a long-term plan within a year of taking office, which sets out how they will do this. We believe everyone should be entitled to a home. On May 7, before casting your vote, please take a moment to consider which party really is committed to ending the housing crisis.