Business 23 April 2014 by BGSD-cs

WORLD IN MOTION

WINNING FORMULA

THE BACK PAGE

Firm that makes it happen bids for awards glory - p6

How chief executive applied science to estate agency - p7

Your new round-up of the people, places and deals

Business bristolpost.co.uk

www.

23 APR 2014

ENGINEERING FOCUS

JOBS SUPPLEMENT INSIDE

Bristol’s engineering sector is soaring out from Brunel’s long shadow by embracing new technologies - pages 8&9 EPB-E01-S3

MORE THAN 300 JOBS GUARANTEED. REAL JOBS AVAILABLE NOW.

URBAN SPACE MAN

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Creative industry

Up & Coming

THE NUMBERS

● Far left, Aidan Turner stars in the return of Poldark being filmed at Bristol’s Bottle Yard Studios; old Aardman favourites Wallace and Gromit; left, Noel Edmonds hosts Deal Or No Deal, which is filmed at the Bottle Yard

● THERE are 15,900 jobs in the creative industries across the Bristol and Bath region, generating £660 million for the economy each year. ● Bristol and Bath creatives are 50 per cent more productive than the UK as a whole. ● Since 1999, there has been a 106 per cent growth in productivity in creative industries across the Bristol and Bath area. ● The area is one of three key centres for creative industries in the UK. The others are Manchester and London. ● As a major centre for film, TV and animation, the area has won 14 Baftas and four Oscars. ● More than 500 million users every month view digital content produced in Bristol and Bath. ● Bristol is home to the world’s largest YouTube gaming channel, The Yogscast.

Survey results Profits up for most but firms warned of new challenge Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

RISTOL’S creative industry is thriving with growing profits and turnover, according to a survey by representative body Bristol Media. In its 2014 survey, 62 per cent of firms that responded said turnover had increased in the past 12 months and 63 per cent reported rising profits. Turnover and profit were steady for 25 and 24 per cent respectively, with just 13 per cent recording a fall in both turnover and profit. The near future looks bright, with 80 per cent expecting a rise in profits in their next accounts. The survey was distributed to all 500 members of Bristol Media, and its

sister organisation Creative Bath. There were more than 120 responses. Bristol Media chief executive, Fraser Bradshaw, welcomed the positive performance, but urged businesses to face the new challenges. He said: “It’s heartening to see the growth in turnover and profits being recorded by so many Bristol creatives. With so many micro-businesses in the mix here, what’s important now is to cement that growth and build on it sustainably. “Growth poses its own challenges, particularly around staffing and cash flow, so it’s important for those that haven’t already made the transition to approach the challenge of growing with a properly strategic mind-set, calling on outside support where necessary. You can’t escape the fact that financial sustainability should be a priority. With new business secured,

and commitments being made, it’s all too easy for small companies to focus on delivery but overstretch themselves financially and risk running out of cash. “It’s important to set realistic payment terms, too, and to ensure you’ve proper contracts in place to protect yourself against non-payment or other disputes. “It’s an exciting time when business picks up, but it needs to be approached with care.” The survey found confidence high among businesses – 76 per cent said they felt more confident, with just under half of those feeling much more confident. While the growing economy is a factor, some respondents cited finally grasping digital challenges successfully. One respondent said: “New digital markets are becoming more finan-

cially stable and viable. They are delivering reliable revenues now – the speculative phase for us is over.” The survey found that the vast majority of creative businesses were small – more than half had a headcount of five or fewer and three-quarters had 20 or fewer. But nearly half of firms expect to take on more staff this year, with about the same again expected to keep numbers steady. Hiring those workers might not be easy, however, as 40 per cent said it was harder to find good staff now than a year ago. Firms were also asked whether their broadband was fast enough and 78 per cent said yes. Of the 22 per cent who said no, most were outside the centre of Bristol, with Bath a particular issue. Meanwhile, many businesses raised residents’ parking zones and general lack of parking as problems.

Bristol Distinguished Executive Address Series

EPB-E01-S3

Listen to Stock Exchange boss - it’ll pay dividends THE boss of the London Stock Exchange Group is the latest speaker to address the business community at the Bristol Distinguished Executive Address Series. Xavier Rolet’s talk will discuss the potential the UK has to be a world leading international hub for high growth companies, outlining the UK’s strengths and challenges in supporting these companies, and role the government can play. Xavier will focus on equity as a form of finance and its vital role in supporting growth and innovation in the economy. The Address Series (BDEAs) is one of the highlights of the university calendar and is an opportunity to

hear about the challenges, issues and decisions being made at the highest level of strategic leadership, directly from the leaders of organisations driving UK business performance. The series is delivered by the Bristol Business School in partnership with ACCA, Bristol City Council, Bristol Post, Business West, CBI, CMI, FSB, IoD, and the West of England LEP. Xavier, pictured, joined the LSE Group Board in March 2009 and became chief executive two months later. Prior to that, Xavier was chief ex-

ecutive officer of Lehman Brothers in France from July 2007 to January 2009. He was appointed a member of the Lehman Brothers’ European Operating Committee in 2003, having joined the firm in February 2000 in New York as deputy co-head of Global Equity Trading Series organiser Professor Nicholas O’Regan said: “We are delighted by the calibre of this year’s speakers, the series is an excellent opportunity for members of the business community in Bristol, as well as our own students, alumni and staff to hear directly from in-

spirational figures in industry with a wealth of strategic experience and leadership skills at the highest level.” The series of talks continues throughout the year and will feature chairmen, CEOs and institutional leaders from a variety of sectors. John Cridland CBE, director general of the CBI, will deliver the university’s prestigious annual Bolland Lecture as part of the Executive Address Series on June 18 at UWE Exhibition and Conference Centre. The addresses are free to attend and open to members of the business community. To register for forthcoming talks visit www.uwe.ac.uk/dea.

The future of business

Pupils show flair for creating a business ● PUPILS from Redland Green are through the area final of a Young Enterprise competition to find the best school business in the South West. The 12 pupils created My Pak, a company which sells superhero and fairy backpacks, and will compete against teams from other parts of Bristol at an event in Clevedon early in May. They were supported by the Bristol office of the HR Dept, whose business manager Anna Pepler has coached the team on a voluntary basis since September. Pupils have learned a range of aspects involved with setting up a company, including creating a brand, sales and marketing and financing. Anna said: “The students are incredibly inspirational and have amazing creativity. “It is a challenging initiative for all those involved but provides young people with invaluable business experiences.”

Airbus gives awards to high-flying duo ● TWO Airbus graduates have been recognised for their achievements and dedication. At the company’s Recognition of Learning event, Nick Vitale was named Direct Entry Graduate of the Year while John Randall took the award for Apprentice of the Year. Nick qualified with an MSc in Integrated Aerospace Systems Design then joined the Airbus Direct Entry Graduate (DEG) programme in 2011. After achieving a first class honours degree in music, John Randall changed career by joining the higher apprentice scheme at Airbus. He is now studying for a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Students profit from financial roadshow ● STUDENTS from Weston College, above, learned financial, enterprise and employability skills as part of a money management scheme. Staffed by Weston College Business Studies students who were specially trained as Money Skills College Champions, the Barclays Money Skills roadshow is a national initiative. Tutorials were delivered and online resources available while the College Champions ran competitions and prize draws. One of the Champions was Jordan Sotiris, 16, a level three business studies student. He said: “It’s useful to be here and find out how better to look after what money I have.”

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Manufacturing

Food

Bart’s seeks recipe for success with rival buy ● BEDMINSTER-based Bart Ingredients Co has bought the business and assets of a rival firm. The manufacturer of condiments and seasonings bought OTP Foods, which produces a wide range of products for supermarkets and independent brands. The deal means Bart brands can now combine wet and dry ingredients to meet the changing culinary needs of both their retail clients and that of consumers. Law firm TLT, based in Redcliff Street, Bristol, advised on the deal. Corporate partner Andrew Webber said: “We are delighted to have advised Bart’s on their strategic acquisition. This is an important step forward towards their ambition to become the number one quality ingredients company in the UK.” Sign up here for business news direct to your inbox every day

● Lucy Barfoot and Lucy Duggan, who make ‘some unique and beautiful wallpaper designs’

Bond Two Lucys creating unique wallpaper after online encounter Rupert Janisch Business@b-nm.co.uk

WO designers who met in Bristol five years ago through an online advert have set up their own business making eccentric homeware. Barfoot and Duggan was set up by Lucy Barfoot, 27, and Lucy Duggan, 33. The pair have worked together for the past four years directing and managing the Light Box Project, a company set up to promote mental wellbeing in the city using positive psychology and art. Light Box has raised more than

£280,000 for the public health of Bristol since it started. And the two namesakes’ new venture is also developing, with an online shop set up at the start of April and applications being submitted to high street banks for a new round of funding. Barfoot and Duggan began in 2012, when the pair received a loan which gave them the necessary funding to manufacture their first batch of products. The loan came from the School for Startups, set up by Doug Richard, one of the investors in the early series of BBC show Dragons’ Den. As well as the loan, the two Lucys used the School for Startups’ mentoring service to learn vital skills

around self-publicising and social media. Two years later, the business has grown to start producing its own range of fabric as well as setting up the online shop. Lucy Duggan, who has lived in Bristol for 14 years, said: “Lucy and I are both artistic and that’s how we met five years ago, when she answered an online advert asking people to send me their to-do lists for an art installation. “When she replied she told me that she collected shopping lists herself, so we met up for some list swapping and hit it off. “Barfoot and Duggan, our new venture, employs just us two – we do everything, even down to some of the

textiles printing. Our mission is two-fold: to inject some fun and eccentricity into home furnishings and to support skills and local economy in the UK by manufacturing everything at home. “We do outsource the bulk of the manufacture to other people and companies, and focus our energy on the bits we find fun: marketing, sales and design. To set the company up we borrowed £5,000 through School for Startups, so our key financial goal for 2014 is to have turned over around about £10,000. “Our creative goal for 2014 is to extend our range and make some unique and beautiful wallpaper designs that people will love to have in their home.”

Sunday Times Profit Track 100

Gas and truck hire firms make nation’s top 100 under £13,000, an annual profit growth of 51 per cent over three years. It employs 274 people. The five companies headquartered in the South West that made the list have made a strong contribution to the local economy, together achieving combined profits of £52 million and employing 1,200 staff. The region’s highest-ranked company at number seven is Newton Abbot oilfield equipment manufacturer Centek, which appears on the table for the second consecutive year. The company makes centralisers for the oil industry — devices that keep pipelines centred in holes before they are cemented into place. The group operates in more than 50 countries, and under chief executive Tony Cutmore, 68, profits grew 117 per cent

“ The South West’s most profitable companies have remained focused, positioning their businesses for – and helping to create – the economic recovery.” Graham Randall

a year to reach £7 million in 2012. Companies from around the UK on the list include well-known restaurant operator Jamie’s Italian, shirtmaker Charles Tyrwhitt, biscuit and cake maker Tunnock’s, and sandwich shop operator Pret A Manger. The Profit Track 100 is sponsored by BDO, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking and UBS Wealth Management. It is compiled by Fast Track, the Oxford-based research and networking events company. Graham Randall, partner and head of the South West at BDO, the title sponsor of the league table, said: “The South West’s most profitable companies have remained focused, positioning their businesses for – and helping to create – the economic recovery we are now witnessing.”

bclear Communications ● bClear Communications was founded by Debbie Staveley in 2005. Since that time it has built up a reputation for being a specialist PR agency that always delivers what it says it will. The firm specialises in the financial services, property and construction markets. bClear Communications sponsored the young entrepreneur category in the Bristol and Bath Women in Business Awards. Unfortunately the details printed in the programme were incorrect. If you want to reach bClearCommunications call 01275 542511, email hello@bclear.co.uk or visit www.bclear.co.uk.

Get in touch Assistant Editor (Business) Gavin Thompson Call 0117 934 3336 Email gavin.thompson @b-nm.co.uk Twitter @gavin_thompson1

Writer Rupert Janisch Email business@ b-nm.co.uk Advertising Robert Rodgerson Call07828 941469 Email robert.rodgerson @b-nm.co.uk Advertising Jane Chapman Call 01179 343025 Email jane.chapman @b-nm.co.uk Advertising Shama Abokor, Regional Business Account Executive Call 0117 934 3426 Emailshama.abokor@ b-nm.co.uk

EPB-E01-S3

TWO Bristol companies are among a handful to have added 500 jobs to the region over the last three years. Gullivers Truck Hire, in St Philip’s, Bristol, and Portbury-based A-Gas International have made this year’s The Sunday Times Profit Track 100, a league table ranking Britain’s 100 private companies with the fastest-growing profits. A-Gas International is a chemicals and gases distributor and supplies environmentally-friendly replacements for CFC chemicals. It came 56th on the table with a rise in profits of 52 per cent over three years to £18 million in 2012. It employs 254 staff. Gullivers Truck Hire, which has a fleet of more than 4,000 vehicles for hire, came 64th on the list. The business has recorded latest profits of just

Getting it right

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Education

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Communications

Virgin Media competition

New facilities on way at historic girls’ school

Funding for research into mobile networks

● INTEGRAL Build is working with the country’s oldest girls’ school on a project to create new, contemporary facilities for students, teachers and visitors within its original Edwardian complex. The £1.5m refurbishment project at Red Maids’ School, in Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, will modernise the library over two floors and create a split-level learning resource centre. There will also be extensive remodelling of the dining hall – which was a temporary hospital for injured soldiers during the First World War – servery, classroom facilities, administration offices and toilet facilities. The main school reception will be dramatically overhauled, creating a more contemporary and efficient space for students, staff and visitors. The project is due to be completed in August, ready for the new school year.

INNOVATIVE businesses are being urged to help create and shape the next generation of mobile networks by tapping into a 79 billion euro research and development fund. At a recent seminar jointly organised by the Enterprise Europe Network South West (EEN SW), Business West and the UK's Technology Strategy Board, Mark Beach, professor at the University of Bristol predicted that by the year 2020 more than seven trillion devices would be connected to the global mobile network and that the current 3G and 4G technology would simply not be able to cope. To meet this challenge, businesses were encouraged to participate in the European Commission's flagship Horizon 2020 funding programme. Paul O'Collins, manager of EEN SW, said: “The challenge is clear. We need to ensure that European technology companies lead the way in the development of the next generation of mobile networks. “The Horizon 2020 funding programme is specifically designed to support the research and development of both large and small businesses to help maintain Europe’s leading position in this and other key sectors.” For more information on the funding available to help research and development and on how EENSW can help SMEs apply for Horizon 2020 funding, visit www.businesswest.co.uk or email Layla.Burrows@enterpriseeuropesw.org.uk.

“ The idea came about from a pain point I was having using headphones in the gym. I was using wired headphones, which I got tangled in whilst exercising.”

● Carl Thomas, 31, from Stoke Gifford, Bristol, who founded Audiowings; inset, his headphone design

Sound investment! Carl makes pitch to Sir Rich Tim Stringer, Integral Build divisional director said: “This is a challenging project because we’re working in a live and very dynamic environment and to very specific constraints regarding both the working landscape and term times. Health and safety, cost control and communication are key. We’re grateful to the school, which has been immensely flexible. The final results are going to be stunning.” Peter Taylor, Red Maids’ bursar, who is overseeing the project for the school, said; “We are fortunate to be situated in a beautiful 12-acre site which has been home to the school since 1911, but this has naturally changed in a number of ways since then. “This investment is a commitment to ensuring our facilities are the best they possibly can be, in order to benefit our students in their academic and personal development.” Integral Build is working with architects Stride Treglown and project managers CMS.

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

NTREPRENEUR Carl Thomas certainly has an ear for a great business idea. The 31-year-old founded Audiowings, which is hoping to revolutionise the headphone industry. The firm is developing a pair of smart headphones that connect to music platforms such as Spotify via the mobile network, meaning you can listen to a vast range of music on the move without having to download or save anything first. Carl, from Stoke Gifford, said: “The idea came about from a pain point I was having using headphones in the gym. I was using wired headphones, which I got tangled in whilst exercising. “I then bought a pair of bluetooth headphones, and whilst using them to exercise, someone stole my smartphone. I then searched extensively for a pair of headphones that connected

directly to Spotify, and nothing existed. That started the journey of Audiowings.” Carl and his idea have been chosen for the semi-finals of the Virgin Media Pioneers Pitch to Rich competition. He is one of 10 on the shortlist from more than 400 entries, but needs public votes to reach the final, with voting closing today. The finalists will pitch their ideas to Sir Richard Branson, right, and judging panel comprising the founders of Moonpig, Jack Wills, Not on The High Street as well as fashion Youtuber Dina Toki-O at the Branson family home in Oxfordshire on May 13. There are two awards this year, the Start-up Award in partnership with Virgin StartUp for businesses in their first 12 months of trading, and the Innovation Award for successfully trading small technology businesses. The top three video pitches for each award will earn a place in the final. The winning prize in each category

Finance

EPB-E01-S3

£1.2m loan fund provides ‘vital’ help A NEW £1.2 million fund has launched which will allow business owners in Bristol access to loans up to £100,000 to invest in their companies. Provided through the Community Development Finance Association as part of a national scheme, the fund is being delivered in the South West by SWIG (South West Investment Group). John Peters, managing director of SWIG, said: “We’re really pleased to be delivering this fund in the South West and believe it will make a vital difference to those businesses out there that have real potential but need that bit of extra support.” With funding provided by the Gover nment’s Regional Growth Fund,

with match-funding in the South West by Lloyds Bank, the fund aims to stimulate growth and prosperity in the local economy with a focus on job creation or safeguarding. Chris Wheeler, commercial manager for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “I am delighted that this funding will provide vital support to SME businesses right across the South West. “Together, the RGF grant and the bank’s matched funding loan of £600,000 will make a real difference in the region. “At Lloyds, we are passionate about backing local businesses and according to our latest Business in Britain report – a bi-annual survey which monitors the confidence levels of

business leaders across the UK – confidence among firms in the South West is rising. “With this in mind, it’s clear that now is an ideal time for businesses to start exploring ways to capitalise on opportunities that are emerging as the UK economy expands.” The funding is available to both start-up and established businesses with growth potential which have been unsuccessful in accessing sufficient funds from traditional sources. Available to most sectors, including those ineligible for European Funding, loan amounts will start from £10,000 to £100,000, with an average loan of £30,000 over three years. Sean Dennis, head of business de-

includes £5,000 of investment plus mentoring, including legal, branding and marketing advice, as well as a networking and profile raising opportunities. Carl, said: “I am thrilled to be selected as one of the semi-finalists. “This is an unbelievable opportunity to present our business to one of Britain’s most successful entrepreneurs and I would really appreciate the support of my local community to help take my business to the next level.” Commenting on the entries, Sir Richard said: “It is thrilling to see so many creative British entrepreneurs making the most of the technology at their fingertips to launch exciting startups. “Each one of these semi-finalists has captured our imagination and we hope will inspire others to act on their own big ideas.” To vote for Carl, go to on www.virginmediapioneers.com.

“ We believe it will make a vital difference to those businesses out there that have real potential but need that bit of extra support John Peters velopment at the CDFA, said: “CDFA members are carrying out vital work for the survival of small and micro businesses. We are pleased that we can invest in SWIG to support this critical activity and boost job creation across the South West. Investment like this offers a new way of creating wealth that’s sustainable and ethical, yet that also makes sound business sense.” Applications for the fund are now being accepted.

Health

Scheme for asbestos victims is welcomed ● A LAW firm helping people affected by asbestos-related diseases has welcomed a new scheme that is now open for applications. Graeme Chisholm, partner and specialist asbestos lawyer at Novum Law, based in the Paragon, Victoria Street, said changes under the Mesothelioma Act, which came into force this month, would help some victims. He said: "We see all too often the devastating effects this disease can have on our clients and their families. “Every year, about 2,400 people in the UK are killed by this disease and this is still increasing. We have been lobbying hard for many years for such a scheme to be implemented and we do welcome its introduction. “We are, however, concerned about the many thousands of people who have gone without compensation in the past and there will still be a significant shortfall from what victims would be entitled to through a civil compensation claim.”

Finance

Cash for creatives ● CREATIVE firms can take advantage of business loans of up to £150,000 from Creative England. The loans are for small to medium-sized companies outside of London looking to develop new products, including software, applications and content for cross-platform TV development; healthcare; games and more. To find out more about the loans, supported by funding from the Regional Growth Fund, visit www.creativeengland.co.uk.

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Property

Strong housing sales bring increase in jobs

● Fred Wyatt, managing director of Meanwhile Creative, and Jack Doran, marketing manager in Bridewell Space, inset

Pics: Dave Betts BRDB20140422C-001

New beat Tenants on the move as old police station faces demolition Rupert Janisch Business@b-nm.co.uk

ORE than 80 small businesses and creative projects are moving into a new home due to the imminent redevelopment of New Bridewell Police Station. In July last year, property solutions business Meanwhile Creative set up Bridewell Space in the building, offering 15,000 sq ft of affordable office and studio space. Almost two years later, it has become home to a wide range of tenants, including artists, surfboard makers, photographers, graphic designers

and a fashion brand. Bridewell Space also houses SAE Space, a not-for-profit arm of Meanwhile Creative dedicated to incubating new businesses, particularly in the social and environmental sectors. The police moved out of the 1970s building in March 2012 and since then its future has been in doubt. The uncertainty ended last month when the city council approved plans to demolish the building to make way for a student accommodation block of more than 500 flats, as well as three commercial units. Developers Watkin Jones, also working on the Bristol Magistrates’ Court, will require all current occupants to leave by the middle of next month. Those small businesses that have

used the building for the past two years are now packing up, with many moving to new premises just around the corner in The Pithay. Meanwhile Creative provides work space for SMEs in difficult or vacant commercial property – such as empty warehouses, disused office blocks and empty retail units – across the city while owners look for long-term options. Buildings can be used for as little as a day up to months or even years, while tenants occupy the property for an agreed short-term period or until a commercial tenant is found. Fred Wyatt, managing director of Meanwhile Creative, said: “We have some great growing businesses in Bridewell Space and it’s proved to be a fantastic location in terms of

providing affordable, flexible space in a central location with a quirky and friendly atmosphere. “It’s a shame we have to move, but at the same time it’s the nature of this business that spaces we occupy are often temporary, so we’re excited about moving into our new home in The Pithay. “We have an expanding property portfolio and are collaborating with some exciting organisations, as well as looking to branch out into new areas with suitable properties, such as Bedminster and Harbourside. “So the future’s looking really bright, not only for Meanwhile Creative but for all of the businesses which have made their home in Bridewell Space over the past couple of years.”

● THE managing director for a major housebuilder in the area says a strong start to 2014 is leading to more jobs as his team works around the clock to build homes to meet the needs of local people. Carl Haley, managing director of Persimmon Homes Severn Valley, was speaking while attending the company’s annual meeting in York. He said: “Visitor levels to our sites are up 10 per cent compared with this period last year and our weekly private sales rate per site for the first 15 weeks of 2014 is 25 per cent ahead of 2013. “In our region, Help to Buy is providing a welcome support to people who have struggled to get finance for a home in recent years. We’re extremely pleased that this scheme is set to continue. “Locally, the business has increased its build rate and we look forward to development launches in Congresbury, Bishop Sutton, Emersons Green, Portishead and Weston-super-Mare. As well as essential housing for local communities, this increased activity also brings more jobs for the region. “We have actively been recruiting since January for a diverse range of positions.”

Get the bigger picture. Business news from Bristol, Bath, Gloucestershire and Somerset. Scan to sign up for news direct to your inbox

Finance

Crowdfunder lending service set for launch the Business Showcase South West at Colston Hall and were blown away by the level of interest and support for what we are trying to do. “The launch of Fundsurfer Lending and the potential for future development of the platform offer us a wonderful opportunity to support creative, social projects and local businesses across Bristol and the South West. We want to make crowdfunding simple and accessible for everyone.” An official launch event will take place on April 30 and a number of projects are being worked on to go live, including reward and donation

● Oliver Mochizuki

campaigns for Rework, Happy City, The Creative Mind Group, Roxx Design, Protect our NHS, Blu Media and Valv. Alongside these partnerships are a range of individually curated projects including a novel, short film, photography exhibition, coaching tool, community support programme, football kit for local school sports teams, youth theatre show, local cleaning company and a jewellery brand launch. The crowdfunding sector has experienced huge growth, with more than £8 billion turnover expected in 2014 alone.

EPB-E01-S3

BRISTOL-based crowdfunding platform Fundsurfer has moved into its next phase by announcing the launch of a new lending service. The platform, which has access to a range of innovative providers of business loans from £5,000 to £1 million, has launched Fundsurfer Lending. These providers connect SMEs with multiple individuals who want to lend money at competitive rates. Otherwise known as peer-to-peer lending, it has seen explosive growth as an alternative source of business finance to the high street banks. Co-founder, Oliver Mochizuki, said: “We recently exhibited Fundsurfer at

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Business Awards

Sponsors

Keeping it local Motion showing its devotion to the city’s economy Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

HE next time you see a marketing video going viral or a stunt promoting a brand in Bristol, there’s a good chance one city centre firm is in-

volved. Motion Experiential puts the pizzazz into marketing campaigns. It is hired by advertising and media agencies as a production partner to help them launch what it calls “brand experience campaigns”. That means any marketing events that bring brands face-to-face with customers. Often such events are set up to drive traffic on social media and are filmed with a hope they will catch the imagination on YouTube or other websites. Examples include a balloon release photo opportunity to help Rita Ora launch her new single recently and a big launch event for the Marriott London Sevens rugby tournament last year. The business was founded by Alex Kopfi, 38, and James Weaver, 32, in 2011 Since then, it has been a story of growth. Alex said the business had increased turnover from £197,000 in year one to £500,000 for this year already. The firm, which has eight full-time staff and hires other people as and when needed, gets involved in anything from finding the right venue to managing events, producing videos, providing promotional staff and devising ideas and strategies. Alex said the business was proud to be in Bristol and reinvesting national

● Alex Kopfi, who co-founded Motion Experiential Pic: Michael Lloyd BRML2014 0408B-002

advertising spend in the local economy. He said: “Where possible, Motion Experiential aims to ensure that all materials and all ancillary services

are purchased from other Bristol-based companies. Motion always looks to bring national brands to Bristol. “Events have brought Douwe Egberts, Galbani and Microsoft to run campaigns in Bristol in the last 12 months.” The business is also investing time in the future of the creative industry, with internships for Bristol graduates looking to take their first steps in marketing. Two interns will be starting soon. Alex said while many of the agencies were based in London, it was

more cost-effective to do much of the event and production work elsewhere. As Bristol has such a strong creative sector, it’s the right place for Motion Experiential to stay. The company has entered the new Best Creative and Technological Business category in the Bristol Post Business Awards. To enter the awards, visit www.bristolpost.co.uk/businessawards. Entries close on May 2. The awards will be presented at a gala ceremony at Brunel’s Old Station, Temple Meads, on Wednesday, June 25.

Categories ● Business of the Year Bristol, sponsored by UWE Bristol ● Young Entrepreneur of the Year ● Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Punter Southall ● Retailer of the Year, sponsored by Broadmead Bristol BID ● Customer Service Award,

sponsored by Broadmead Bristol BID ● Family Business of the Year, sponsored by BOM Group ● Innovator of the Year ● Export Award, sponsored by Lloyds Banking Group ● Marketing Campaign of the Year

● Large Business of the Year, sponsored by Smith & Williamson ● Best Creative/Technological Award, sponsored by Ashfords Solicitors ● Leisure & Tourism Business of the Year, sponsored by QBE

● Small Business of the Year, sponsored by First Great Western ● Start-Up Business of the Year, sponsored by Jordans ● Environmental Business Award ● Contribution to the Community Award, sponsored by Renishaw

Sponsor profile

We’re ready to deliver another railway revolution

EPB-E01-S3

IRST Great Western recognises the importance of supporting the communities we serve and the value of transport links to local economies. We run 9,079 services every week, calling at 276 stations. Our trains cover a total 70 million miles and carry 97 million passengers every year, providing high-speed, commuter, regional and branch line train and sleeper services across the Great Western rail franchise area. This includes Bristol and the surrounding areas, with direct services to stations en route to London, Devon and Cornwall, South Wales, the Cotswolds and further north towards Hereford. In Bristol, we are also delighted to support and work with the Severnside Community Rail Partnership,

the Local Enterprise Partnership, rail users and others to add value and expertise to projects designed to improve services and make stations safer, friendlier and greener. Every day our helpful and friendly staff help to transport thousands of people to their workplaces, to important meetings, to visit friends and relatives or simply to enjoy a day out. We recognise the key role good customer service and innovation can play in that journey. Business and innovation is what created the Great Western Main Line and what symbolises Bristol today – from the Clifton Suspension Bridge to the thriving aerospace industry.

The innovation is set to continue with the electrification of the Great Western Main Line and the introduction of Intercity Express Programme trains, as well as additional platforms at the station, delivering another revolution in passenger travel and quicker journeys, further helping Bristol businesses to grow and prosper. This is why we are proud to sponsor the highly regarded Bristol Business Awards. We would like to take the opportunity now to congratulate all of those nominated for an award and to wish them good luck as overall winners are decided.

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

The Big Interview

MAN WITH FORMULA FOR SUCCESS Michael Robson created a winning formula hiring bright young things to sell houses. Gavin Thompson asks if Andrews can enjoy the same measure of success in a fast-changing property market.

My working day You wake up at? 5.30am What do you have for breakfast? Porridge with Maple Syrup What time do you start work? I’m always in the office by 8.15am, if I’m visiting a branch I ensure I’m always there by 9am. What time do you go home? Around 7pm Do you take work home/attend evening functions? I never take work home with me but regularly attend evening functions and have dinner with industry peers and suppliers.

My downtime What’s your perfect weekend? Spend an hour in the gym and have a light breakfast. Then go racing sailing with my friends around Hamble followed by lunch somewhere along The Solent, in the evening listen to music under the stars on the deck with my family. Sunday I would spend with my children, grandchildren and wife sailing and then an evening meal in a restaurant in Bath with friends. What’s your favourite book or film or TV show? I enjoy all of John le Carré’s books but Tinker, Tailor, Solider, Spy is my favourite.

Vital statistics Name: Michael Robson Age: 60 Place of birth: St Agnes, Cornwall School: Bishops Cleeve Comprehensive and Gloucestershire College First job: Dowty Group Technical Apprenticeship Hero or inspiration: Horatio Nelson, below, as one of the first professional leaders and Margaret Thatcher as gender and background was irrelevant, it was all down to hard work.

Bath. Among the new challenges was hiring staff for the new office. Again, Andrew came up with a strategy. “I looked for other people like me,” he said. “Young, upwardly mobile graduates who wanted to learn. I didn’t bother about whether they had been an estate agent. I found a handful of young men and women who were intelligent, vibrant, energetic... and didn’t know anything about estate agency. The branch took off.” Michael and his team of bright young things pushed the boundaries, opening until 6pm when everyone else closed at 5, then Saturday afternoons and eventually Sundays. Having a young, motivated, and no-strings-attached workforce meant they could be flexible and ahead of the competition. “We absolutely took Bath apart,”

said Michael, relishing past glory. “We dominated Bath and most of the competition didn’t know what to do. We were young and nobody told us what we couldn’t do, so we just did it.” After his triumph amid the splendour of Bath, Michael was moved to Bristol to take on a struggling branch. “It was awful. The staff were miserable with low self-belief and I don’t think they understood what they were there for.” Proving he could be ruthless, the young manager replaced them and went back to the formula that he knew worked, starting from scratch with an inexperienced but motivated team. “I sat in a recruitment agency all day,” said Michael. “Graduates came in and I said ‘have you thought about estate agency’, they said ‘no’ and I told them they should. I recruited bright, thoughtful young people and built the branch. “I formalised estate agency into a series of processes and procedures. There are about 20 things you have to do in your branch and if you do those things intelligently and well then you will be successful.” The plan proved itself again after another move, this time to Gloucester, before Michael was promoted to area manager then sales director. Over the next five years, he served his second apprenticeship, reporting to then chairman and chief executive Sir Alec Reed, founder of the recruitment business that still carries his name. “He taught me how to run a business,” said Michael. But as with Dowty’s years before, it was chasten-

“ We dominated Bath and most of the competition didn’t know what to do. We were young and nobody told us what we couldn’t do, so we just did it.” Michael Robson ing at times. Sir Alec would arrange regular review meetings in car parks around the country and give Michael such a hard time that the chairman would sometimes feel the need to call his protege’s wife to warn her Michael might be coming home upset, but add “actually, he’s doing okay”. In 1990 Michael passed this final examination and became chief executive, a position he has held since. In that time he has doubled the size of the company, expanded from just a residential estate agency into lettings management agency responsible for 15,000 properties, a financial services company brokering millions of pounds in mortgages every year and a chartered surveyors business. The firm sprawls across the South West and Home Counties, from its Keynsham headquarters, with 65 branches and about 650 employees. After 24 years as chief executive, Michael has no plans to let go. “I’m unusual in that I love my work. I get up every morning and can’t wait to get to work,” he said. He still thrives on innovation. Six

months ago, Andrews opened a contact centre (call centre, but nobody likes to use that phrase anymore) so that customers can do business – by phone, email or through the website and get a response from 8am to 8pm. The call handlers can access diaries and information from all the company offices, meaning they can put a viewing in the diary even after the relevant staff member has gone home, or know when they are in a meeting and can’t take a call but also when they’ll be available. The firm is one year into a three-year strategy to become an “omni-channel” business, where it doesn’t matter whether customers want to interact online, by telephone or in the office. “We want our customers to be able to interact 24 hours a day using mobile devices to make an appointment, book a viewing or even make an offer online,” said Michael. But before you assume that’s an excuse to cut costs of staff and property, Andrews is still expanding its bricks and mortar empire, with its next office opening soon in Brockworth, Gloucester. “Although the number of people who visit the shops has declined,” said Michael, “Our research shows most people will still instruct an estate agent to sell their home which has a shop near them because they want that local knowledge, expertise and experience.” And it’s that combination of innovation with technology, local presence and his tried and tested formula of hiring bright, motivated people that Michael believes will engineer success for Andrews in the years to come.

EPB-E01-S3

ICHAEL Robson, chief executive of Andrews estate agency, began his career not selling houses but learning how to make things, as an apprentice engineer at Dowty’s in Cheltenham, where he grew up. “I didn’t enjoy it that much, to be frank,” he said. “But I think it was good for me. It was a form of boot camp. The senior guys taught us that appearance, attitude, behaviour and language matter a great deal. It was like being in the army. “I did four years. I didn’t think about it at the time but it did prepare me for a life in business. I’m deeply grateful to Dowty’s.” It’s not the most common way in to the property industry, but then Michael has always liked to work out his own way of doing things. After deciding he wanted to work with people and following several discussions with careers advisers, in which they tried to steer him into surveying, and a few job applications, Michael found himself starting with Andrews in 1976. Young, keen and single, he soon found himself being parachuted in wherever there was a vacancy or staff shortage. During this time Michael picked up what he decided were the dos and don’ts to selling houses and, using his methodical engineer’s brain, wrote them all down in a log book similar to the one he had used as an apprentice at Dowty’s, and applied them to create a successful methodology that eventually took him to the top of the company. “I got to see lots of different branches and branch managers and that allowed me to learn very quickly,” said Michael. “I saw how to do it well and how to do it badly. I was very fortunate to meet some people who were extremely good and I modelled my approach on them. “My engineering background taught me to measure things. I was unusual in that I wanted to measure everything – the number of viewings, appointments and sales. I was comfortable with data and it seemed to me important that it was accurate and that you were a more efficient employee if you knew what you were doing. “It’s a simple business. You have got to do enough work between Monday and Wednesday to sell your first house, and enough to sell your second by Saturday. If you understand that and you sell two houses every week, you will be a successful sales negotiator. And then if you know it usually takes six viewings to sell a property or get an offer, you know what you need to do.” After working out the science of succeeding as a property salesman, Michael was asked if he could apply his method as a manager too, when he was asked to open the firm’s office in

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

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

Engineering focus Expert eye Sean Gilday Page Hargrave Bristol Office sgilday@page hargrave.co.uk 0117 927 6634

Devising a strategy to protect designs

EPB-E01-S3

HE engineering sector is one where creativity meets practicality. As such, there may be an abundance of ‘intellectual property’ created that may be protectable. Perhaps patents are most associated with engineering, and rightly so – patents offer protection for ‘inventive’ solutions to technical problems. It is important to recognise, though, that other forms of IP may also be relevant. Prototypes, models or design drawings may give rise to associated ‘design rights’, offering protection against copying. Certain designs may be protected by registration to give a stronger, monopoly right. With an array of potential rights available it is worth developing an effective filing strategy for achieving the strongest protection. ● Patents: For all ‘inventions’ there is a process of development from conception to production, and patent applications should be filed in this window. A patent must have ‘novelty’, with no disclosure to the public prior to filing, so waiting to file until the product is on the shelves is too late. However, the filed description must also be ‘sufficient’, providing enough information for a skilled person to put the invention into practice. Filing before the solution is technically realised may therefore be jumping the gun. The optimal time to file is usually at the prototype stage. This ensures the invention can be put into practice in at least one form, and before the product is shown to the public. Non-disclosure agreements can be used to protect against loss of rights, allowing for confidential third-party testing, for example. ● Registered designs: In this case, public disclosure is less critical. While designs must still be new, a year's grace period applies following disclosure, in which an application may be validly filed. This is useful, since registered designs are most appropriate for protecting finalised, or near-finalised, designs – for example, products to be sold. ● Design rights: These generally subsist automatically, so the main consideration is not when to apply, but more the keeping of adequate documentation to prove authorship and dates of creation and first marketing. Of course, individual circumstances require individual advice. Contact us for a free consultation.

CITY ENGINEERS KEEP STEP Engineering has been the backbone of Bristol’s economy for many years. Rupert Janisch looks at how the sector is faring now and where the future lies.

T’S easy to succumb to the temptation of a good old cliché when talking about engineering in Bristol. Those classic images of Brunel standing next to giant iron chains or Concorde soaring over the Clifton Suspension Bridge are powerful indicators that Bristol is historically good at designing and making stuff, without telling us what we actually engineer here today. There’s more to Bristol’s engineering pedigree than just the old headline acts. And it’s true, Bristol does justifiably maintain a reputation for innovation and feats of engineering excellence. Did you know, for example, that Bristol is a globally recognised centre of composite materials used in aerospace and many other types of engineering, as well as being a global

“ The march of technology means new opportunities for new and expanding businesses, including those in Bristol. Vince Cable, Business Secretary leader in mobile communication technology? This might be engineering done under a microscope, rather than the giant feats of moulding iron which we associate of Brunel’s era, but it’s no less impressive for that. And the city continues to push frontiers in other areas, too, such as green technologies and nuclear engineering. Perhaps it’s the sheer diversity of modern engineering which makes our prowess somewhat hard to shout about. After all, computer chips have little in common with the latest in self-repairing man-made materials, other than the fact that they’re designed and made here. Vince Cable, pictured, the Government’s Business Secretary, certainly recognises what Bristol has to offer in the diverse engineering industries. And the Government, in a bid to re-balance our economy away from the finance-dominated pre-2008 model, is now investing large sums of money in cities that have something else to offer. Like Bristol. According to Mr Cable: “For too long, the engine of Britain's economy have been the bankers who led us into disaster. Some areas have been marginalised in obtaining finance

● Nigel Toon, chief executive of XMOS

Region’s ‘exceptional’ talent behind rapid growth Case Study: XMOS

● USING groundbreaking technology developed at the University of Bristol, XMOS makes high-performance silicon chips that are the ‘brains’ inside a wide range of familiar products, including consumer electronics, robots and the electronics inside your car. Software engineers can easily customise XMOS chips to talk to the other electronic circuits and devices needed to make an end product, and these unique capabilities are driving rapid growth in the company’s business. Originally based in the Bristol SETsquared Business Acceleration Centre, XMOS now enjoys a

commanding view over the city from the top floor of Prudential Buildings in Wine Street. In addition to its Bristol HQ, the company has sales and engineering centres in Chennai in India, Shenzhen in China and in the USA. Despite the recent recession, XMOS has a fast-growing workforce of 60, including some of the most highly-skilled engineers in the UK electronics industry. The company’s blue-chip customer base includes industry leaders such as Sony and Sennheiser.

for investment. Getting the country’s finances in order still means that we simply can’t do that anymore. “The march of technology means new opportunities for new and expanding businesses, including those in Bristol. “We are supporting ‘eight great technologies’ like new advanced material and robotics, where the UK could take a world lead.

“Potentially, these mean we will be world leaders in technology that helps us do everything from stopping people rejecting donated organs to creating food replicators like on Star Trek.” Someone who has a more overarching view than most of the various engineering hubs in this city and the South West is Professor Nishan Canagarajah, dean of engineering at the University of Bristol. We often hear of the relationship between our academic institutions and business, perhaps again without

Nigel Toon, the CEO, said: “Bristol has a rich heritage in electronic engineering and innovation and we’re proud to be a part of that. Certainly we couldn’t have come this far without access to the exceptional pool of talent in the region. We have managed to attract some of the world’s leading venture capital firms to back our business. “The recession has certainly tested the electronics industry – in hindsight, 2007 wasn’t exactly the ideal year to kick-off a start-up! But actually in an environment like this, there are always opportunities for unique technologies.”

appreciating how important the link is. But with engineering, it’s clear – a two-way relationship with funding coming in and cutting-edge research going out. For Professor Canagarajah, there are two main fields of excellence in which the University of Bristol is pioneering research. The first is mobile communication technology, working on high-performance wired and wireless systems that will provide the next generation of internet infrastruc-

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

WITH THE MARCH OF TECHNOLOGY ‘We’re proud to be part of a strong tradition’ Case Study: Stirling Dynamics ● STIRLING Dynamics was founded over 27 years ago by aerospace engineer and university lecturer Dr Robert Stirling, who saw an opportunity to provide specialist aerospace and marine research consultancy. With headquarters in Clifton and several offices around the UK and in the US, the company today employs more than 180 staff and turns over £10 million, delivering a range of specialist products and services to the aerospace, energy, marine and simulation industries. Since its inception, the company has gone from strength to strength, seeing tremendous growth and diversification. Its product portfolio now spans state-of-the-art pilot training equipment, advanced autopilots for a variety of underwater craft, and software that helps design aircraft of the future. It exports more than 50 per cent of its products and services to customers all over Europe, as well as Brazil, India, China, Japan, South Korea and the US. Managing director, Steve Judd, said: “We are very optimistic about

● Stirling Dynamics managing director Stephen Judd in the company’s workshop Picture: Artur Lesniak BRAL2014 0409C-001 our future growth plans. Stirling has weathered the recent economic storm by focusing on innovation, investing in research and development, and protecting our intellectual property.

“We’ve expanded into new markets abroad and we’ve looked to new market sectors, where our core technologies can be transferred, such as the energy sector. “The UK, and Bristol in particular,

has a strong engineering tradition which we are proud to be part of. Continued success on the worldwide stage depends on the agility, innovation and ability of UK engineering and technology

Response to change helps business thrive Case Study: Space Engineering ● Dale Nouch, joint managing director of Space Engineering Services in Pucklechurch Pic: Michael Lloyd BRML2014 0415B-003 commercial through to the industrial sectors, nationwide as well as abroad. Employing 585 staff, the company

has a head office and national operations centre in Bristol, a manufacturing facility in Pucklechurch, six other UK offices,

ture. The other is composites. The university runs the National Composites Centre at the Bristol and Bath Science Park in Emersons Green, funded by £60 million of Government money, and where interested parties include a large number of major engineering companies, the very biggest of which include Agusta Westland, Airbus, Rolls-Royce and GKN Aerospace. And there are other areas of engineering in which Bristol leads the way and in which the university assists with its rich pools of intellect –

nuclear engineering, for example, is becoming more relevant given Government policy on energy provision. One area that Professor Canagarajah believes the city should develop more is in medical engineering. He cites precision measurement experts Renishaw, based in Wotton-underEdge, as a sole beacon of regional excellence in this field, but says it is an area in which our city should concentrate more resources. So the present and the future for engineering in Bristol appear bright. What success depends on, partly, is a

steady stream of young talent coming into the engineering sectors in our city. Professor Canagarajah says there is work to do here, too: “I spend a lot of my time working with companies in the region. “And increasingly we work with our students to find them opportunities with companies here because it’s important that they don’t leave Bristol and work elsewhere. “A few years ago, there was a concern that we weren’t producing enough engineers and that it was

one in Hungary and one in Poland. Dale Nouch, joint managing director of Space Engineering Services, said: “The foundations of

“ The position has changed a lot now and engineering is very buoyant. Certainly in Bristol we are attracting large numbers of students who want to do engineering. Professor Nishan Canagarajah

our company remain very much at the forefront of our business today, but we have grown significantly both in terms of our size and the services and products that we deliver. “We have embraced changes in Government regulations and social responsibility as well as the rise in demand for greener refrigeration and heating solutions by focusing on research and development to come up with new products. “The recession has also had an impact on us, and we have responded by delivering combined packages from design right through to commissioning and servicing, to provide real value and efficiencies to our customers. “Our business is strong and stable, but we are always aware of the need to grow and adapt to changes in our industry. We want to grow our business through understanding and innovation, while building and maintaining long-term partnerships with our partners.” getting hard to recruit. The position has changed a lot now and engineering is very buoyant. “Certainly in Bristol we are attracting large numbers of students who want to do engineering. “But the sad news is that even then we aren’t going to produce enough engineers to meet the national need. “At the moment, we produce about 20,000 young engineers a year – graduates and qualified skilled workforce – and by 2020 we need to double that.”

EPB-E01-S3

● SPACE Engineering Services recently celebrated its 25th anniversary after being set up by a group of engineers in 1988. Starting out primarily as a refrigeration servicing contractor, it now manufactures, installs and commissions refrigeration plants, source cabinets and cold rooms. It also provides business solutions such as design, project management and facilities management. Last year, Space Engineering Services turned over £103 million, servicing clients from the

companies to actively go out and seek new opportunities The UK needs more engineers! And more financial backing for the smaller, more agile, technology companies, like Stirling, to meet growth needs.”

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Know how John Bonney Online marketing specialist

Content vital in bid for online success

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

OUT AND ABOUT: BRISTOL’S In pictures - unlocking innovation Action Coach Bristol & North Somerset seminar

EPB-E01-S3

VER these past weeks, the aim of these posts has been to help small businesses become exceptional online. In a series of weekly instalments regarding your digital marketing campaign – covering everything from social media to website performance – this column is helping you reach online success. One thing many small businesses struggle with in the digital world is driving the right kind of traffic to their website. An effective way of doing this is via content. And in this sense, content doesn’t just mean the text on your site. It means what you have to offer visitors, whether that be free how-to guides, blog pieces or even video content. If you’re stuck for new content ideas to add your site, think about what sort of things your customers want to know, and what they want to read about. Do you regularly get asked a particular question by new customers? Set up an FAQ guide and add to it each time you get asked a question you think could benefit your other customers. Regularly update your content – since the Hummingbird update, Google ranks freshly-updated and relevant content highly. This is where the saying “content is king” comes into play. With all content remember quality over quantity. Create something worth sharing. If you are passionate about your industry and have a gripping way of delivering that passion, then people will take notice – you will be creating something instantly shareable. Once you’ve created your content, it needs to be shared, and the best way to get your creations out there is social media. If you haven’t got a wide social media reach, then try running a competition and offering a prize that relates to your industry. This attracts interested consumers to your social channels. If you aren’t already, you should try creating company-branded and industry-relevant infographics. There are many free services online which make creating them extremely easy. If you’ve followed these column articles closely, by now you should have Google Analytics installed on your site – if not, it’s a highly-recommended application, which gives you deeper site statistics. For those with Analytics installed, are you tracking your bounce rate? This shows the number of people who click on your site, don’t spend any time browsing, then leave your site. If it’s high, it means that the traffic being driven to your site isn’t high quality. A low bounce rate means that the traffic being driven to your site is relevant, with interested consumers. If you have a question for John Bonney, email Craig Sheppard on c.sheppard@bathchron.co.uk.

● Michael Julian, of Blipship, and Muhammad Ali, of NC BRML20140417B-006 Healthcare

● TWENTY business owners attended a seminar hosted by local business coaching organisation, Action Coach Bristol & North Somerset, that explored ways in which businesses can unlock innovation for business growth. The seminar included a session from Grads for Growth, an EU funding scheme, which helps businesses access funding to employ graduates to develop new products and services. The event host and business coach Rob Carter said: “Innovation and thinking big in business is so important but so often under-looked. “Very few people know that funding is available for help. About 40 per cent of the businesses that attended have made follow up appointments with Grads for Growth so here’s hoping some exciting projects come from it.”

● Ron Auton, of Bath Theatrical Costume Hire, and Paul Doolan of Help in Care CIC BRML20140417B-011

● Barry Adams, of Focus Accountancy, Leo Borrie, of Pedal Power Transport, and Richard Wilcox, of Clifton Nash Pictures: Michael Lloyd BRML20140417B-008

● Michael Julian of Blipship BRML20140417B-013

● The seminar

● Jon Cook of Grads for Growth BRML20140417B-003

● Rob Carter, Action coach, and Ian Goodenough, G2 BRML20140417B-010 Architects

GALLERIES GALORE

FOR MORE PICTURES Check out our website at bristolpost.co.uk/business

● Leo Borrie of Pedal Power BRML20140417B-014 Transport

● Miriam Booth of UK Spares

BRML20140417B-017

● Rusette Auton of Bath Theatrical BRML20140417B-015 Costume Hire

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

BUSINESS COMMUNITY

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

In pictures - public listing debate hosted by Osborne Clarke, Moon Consulting, WH Ireland and QCA

GALLERIES GALORE

FOR MORE PICTURES Check out our website at bristolpost.co.uk/business

Business diary Ready for business workshop: Introductory workshops for anyone who is exploring the concept of self-employment or starting a business at Brave, The Coach House, Upper York Street, Bristol, 10am-4pm, Thursday, April 24. Free. Contact readyforbusiness@businesswest. co.uk. Mark Ormrod business talk: Motivational speaker, author of Man Down, former Royal Marine Commando and triple amputee Mark Ormrod visits Pure Comms, Clevedon, to talk to business owners at 5.30pm on Thursday, April 24. Followed by auction and book signing – with all money raised being donated to the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. Visit www. purecomms.co.uk. Taking Care Of Your Music Business: Bristol-based independent records label Jelli Records runs workshop the Coach House, Upper York Street, Bristol, on Saturday, April 26, covering self-employment in the music business and getting work. Sign up at www.jelli-records.com/ jelli-workshops.html. China breakfast briefing: Breakfast briefing for high-tech and green technology firms about opportunities in China, outlining details will outline details of the Smart Cities’ China Trade Mission from the region to Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen in November. HSBC Commercial Centre, Temple Back, Tuesday, April 29. See at www.bristol-china-partnership. com for more information. FSB South Gloucestershire seminar: Wednesday, April 30, 7pm-10pm, Aztec West Hotel, Almondsbury, BS32 4TS. Register at www.fsb.org.uk.

● From left, Michael Higgins, Jon King, Tim Ward, Patrick Graves, Jasper Berry and Simon Quinn

Institute of Directors Bristol branch Wednesday@6 Informal networking from 6-8pm, Wednesday, April 30, at Radisson Blu Hotel with speaker, Pacific Ocean rower Elsa Hammond. Free and open to non members but please register by calling 0117 3707785. The Set.Social: Monthly informal networking night at The Set, a collaboration club at Bath Road Studios. Taking place the first Wednesday of every month, aims to bring together like- minded people in the South of Bristol to meet, think, create over drinks and canapés. From 6pm Feeding Tomorrow’s City: Cities have become places that make it difficult to get good food for people - and food that is good for the planet. A fresh approach is needed to connect food, health and planning in the urban environment. A Bristol-focused conference led by Bristol UWE, Tuesday, May 6, At-Bristol, Harbourside. More details on UWE website. CBI South West Annual Lunch: Takes place in At-Bristol, Harbourside, on Friday, May 9, sponsored by RBS. Tickets via Eventbrite.

● Tim Ward

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.

EPB-E01-S3

● BUSINESS leaders from across the region gathered at Osborne Clarke’s Bristol office to discuss the merits of public listing. In a joint event with Moon Consulting, the Quoted Companies Alliance (QCA) and Stockbrokers WH Ireland, directors and non-executives heard that UK companies are increasingly optimistic about their own prospects. The evening was chaired by Patrick Graves, corporate partner at Osborne Clarke, and began with an excellent overview of the current market. Tim Ward, CEO of the QCA, noted that with sales growth expectations in the next 12 months remaining good, 82 per cent of companies expect to take on more employees. Public equity remains the preferred source of potential finance, but interestingly 35 per cent of companies still choose bank debt to grow their business. Michael Higgins, QCA chairman, commented in his address that public listing is not for every company as no two companies are the same and that the key to a successful listing is that the business must be inherently successful in the first place. Jasper Berry, WH Ireland’s head of institutional sales, followed up with a perceptive talk that examined the other side of the coin by showing what institutional sales companies are looking for when they invest in a business. Jon King, corporate partner of Osborne Clarke, ended by putting the theory into practice: showcasing a recent case study of a company undergoing an IPO and the associated challenges. A lively Q&A panel discussion followed, provoking interesting debate among a diverse set of delegates, each with their own perceptions and experiences of the public markets.

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

The back page

Your digest of the week in business

People

In numbers Inflation (CPI)

● CLIVE Wray, director of public sector contracts at regional organisation Business West, has received an OBE for services to small businesses and international trade. For the last 20 years Clive, pictured, has supported SME business development in the South West by helping businesses to grow, through enterprise development. The latter part of his career has focused particularly on international trade. Phil Smith, managing director of Business West said: “This OBE is well deserved as Clive has been instrumental in the running of the contracts for UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) and Enterprise Europe Network (EEN). His tireless dedication has made a huge impact on the export activities of local businesses.”

● Mazars is expanding its Bristol office with the addition of a new director of audit and business development and a VAT senior manager. The former, Jon Marchant, n grew up working in a family business and has worked with owner managed businesses throughout his career. Chris Hall joins as senior VAT manager after 5 years at Grant Thornton, where he provided VAT advice primarily to large owner managed businesses, not-for-profit organisations and clients with international operations. Jon and Chris are pictured with, from left, partners Tim Ball, Amy Reynolds and Adrian Godfrey. ● The British Engineering Manufacturers Association, based in Yate, has appointed a new director of training because of rising demand for apprenticeship and adult training Ian Mynett, right,

Inflation (RPI) Grove Street, to a private buyer. The four-storey office building with consent for residential development was sold for an undisclosed sum. Tom Dugay, from Alder King’s agency team, said: “This property is a classic example of how permitted development rights can breathe new life into former office buildings that are past their prime.”

Deals ● Renishaw, a world leading engineering technologies company based in Wotton-under-Edge, has bought the business of Advanced Consulting & Engineering, Inc, a US-based supplier of dimensional measurement products and services focused on the automotive industry. The acquisition of family-owned ACE, based in Rochester Hills, Michigan, provides Renishaw with further specialist programming capabilities and will help to support Renishaw’s sales in the US. Leo Somerville, President of Renishaw Inc, said: “This is an excellent acquisition for Renishaw and further underlines our commitment to invest in the development of our metrology business.”

● Clive Wray collects his OBE spent the bulk of his career with Brunel Training Group, ending up as chief executive. He left to go back into engineering role, having previously worked for Messier Bugatti Dowty in Gloucester. ● Independent insurance broker Prescott Jones has appointed two senior members of staff after growing by 15 per cent last year. The company has appointed Heather Dunford as senior commercial account manager and Jeremy Nicholas as a commercial account executive. Heather will be the main internal contact for the existing bank of Bristol office clients, providing advice and negotiating on their behalf with insurers and other bodies. Jeremy’s role involves developing commercial new business opportunities.

You may have missed ● Bristol-based Imperial Tobacco announced last week it is to close its last UK factory, in Nottingham. Pictured, from left, Jeremy Nicholas, Heather Dunford and director Chris Davies.

Places ● ONE of the first deals to turn offices into flats in Weston-superMare under more relaxed rules known as permitted development rights has gone through. Acting on behalf of Sladeridge Properties, property consultants Alder King negotiated the freehold sale of Parkside House, a former Inland Revenue office building on

● Last Thursday, we reported that with 23, Gloucester Road has the second highest concentration of coffee shops in the country. ● On Monday Airbus, Renishaw and Creditcall were all been awarded the Queen’s Award for Innovation. ● And the rise of permitted development rights being used to create student flats in Bristol was reported in Tuesday’s Post, with LSH office agency director, Peter Musgrove, saying it was good for students and the office market.

The op-ed column

Were ministers’ visits just for show? We’ll see...

EPB-E01-S3

T’s nearly eight months since I took over the business brief for the Bristol Post and in that time it feels like we’ve been mobbed by ministers. So far I’ve covered business-focused visits by five government ministers, including the recent stop by Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills Vince Cable to Redcliffe Precision Ltd in Ashton Vale and the Engine Shed. I’ve missed a few more besides. The Chancellor George Osborne rudely decided to visit the Bloodhound land speed record project on my day off. The obvious conclusion is that Bristol is well thought of in Whitehall and Westminster and this Govern-

1.7 1.7 1.6 0.5 3.99

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

ment is backing Bristol to succeed. Why wouldn’t it? When the Coalition came to power steering the economy towards recovery was the priority. The only people who can drive that recovery is not Government, but business. And Bristol business is a strong success story. The city region’s economy is worth £25 billion and contributes a welcome £10 billion to the Treasury coffers each year. We are one of the only places making a net

contribution to, rather than taking money away from, the public purse. There is a more cynical view, however. These regular visits could be more about helping them, than helping us. With the general election next year, both Lib Dems and Tories are desperate to be associated with any feel good factor around, and Bristol has been feeling better than most, earlier than most. Are Mr Cable, Mr Osborne and their colleagues serious about helping Bristol grow, or simply riding on the coat tails of its private sector successes? We’ll soon know. Last month the West of England Local Enterprise

Partnership submitted its strategic economic plan to Government. Within it is a bid for £90 million a year for six years to spend on various projects to accelerate growth. The LEP is asking for much more than its share of the pot by population. Why? Because as a successful city, Bristol can deliver more in terms of growth and prosperity. If the bid succeeds, we’ll know the Government really is backing Bristol. Otherwise, it’s all for show.

● If you have opinions about business and want to write for this column, send 400 word submissions, with a photo of yourself, to business@b-nm.co.uk.

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 1.36% National Counties BS £1,000 deposit Bank of 1.25% Cyprus UK £1,000 deposit Source:

Petrol prices .71p

129 136 138 70

Unleaded

.17p Diesel

.85p Super unleaded

.82p LPG

Source: PetrolPrices.com