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JOBS GALORE
FUNDING CONUNDRUM
BACKING A WINNER
Check out the latest job offers in our supplement - inside
Firms still foxed by funding questions, survey finds – p7
High stakes for local bookie in Royal Ascot gamble – page 4
Business bristolpost.co.uk
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MANUFACTURING FOCUS
SUCCESS IN THE PIPELINE There is a lot more made in Bristol than aeroplanes. The city’s manufacturing sector is soaring. P8&9 EPB-E01-S3
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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Exports
Technology
Firm gives leg-up to business campaign ● A BRISTOL firm that makes educational models for the medical industry is backing a Government business campaign. Limbs & Things, based in St Philip’s is supporting the Business is GREAT campaign, a Government initiative which aims to build the confidence of small businesses across the country and help them to grow and export. The company is a world-leading business in medical education – designing and making healthcare simulation products professionals use to develop their skills. The firm has taken advantage of trade missions to other countries in the early days, and now exports across the world. Over the years, it has received support from UKTI and the Manufacturing Advisory Service and was recently recognised with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Margot Cooper, president of Limbs & Things, said: “We are supporting the Business is GREAT campaign to inspire other small businesses, and demonstrate what can be achieved with the support available from the Government. It is a brilliant opportunity to take part in a scheme to help explore export opportunities.”
Retail
M&S creates 40 jobs with new food store ● MARKS & Spencer is to opening new Simply Food store in Bristol, creating 40 new jobs. The 8,245 sq ft store will open at the Imperial Park, Hartcliffe, on July 9, selling almost 4,500 food and drink lines, as well as flowers and cards. The tore will bring over 40 jobs to the area and include a 42-seat café. Store manager Martyn Secker said: “We are delighted to be opening a Simply Food store in Imperial Park which will provide local customers with a great new shopping experience. “We look forward to welcoming customers through our doors.”
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
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Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Advertising Shama Abokor, Regional Business Account Executive Call 0117 934 3426 Emailshama.abokor@ b-nm.co.uk
Fibre optic Don’t miss out on £3k grants for superfast broadband Rupert Janisch Business@b-nm.co.uk
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USINESSES in Bristol are being urged not to miss out on £3,000 of free funding towards installing superfast fibre optic broadband. Any city business which employs fewer than 250 employees and turns over less than £40 million can apply for funding from the Connection Vouchers programme. Bristol has £4.8 million of funds to distribute after being named last year as one of 22 cities to benefit from a Government scheme called Super Connected Cities. Each £3,000 grant is a no-strings capital investment, providing an opportunity to connect business premises with superfast fibre broadband. Multiple businesses occupying the same premises can also join forces to apply for collaborative funds of £3,000 per company. But the money is only available until March next year and Bristol City Council, which is in charge of the funding, is planning a marketing campaign to raise awareness of the fund after a disappointing number of applications since it was launched last year. The previous qualification criteria has also been slightly revised to help more businesses qualify. Business telecoms network specialist Solution IP, an expert provider of fibre broadband services, is partnering with Bristol City Council as a registered provider of the Connection Vouchers services. Its sales and operations director Ryan Jones said: “Solution IP has seen a significant uptake of enquiries since we have assisted in generating awareness of this great value scheme.”
● Patrick Lincoln, Solution IP; Joe Dignan, Bristol City Council; Ryan Jones, Solution IP And he also warned that lack of awareness of the grant could lead to companies missing out on valuable free funding, which could offer the opportunity to improve productivity in the workplace. He said: “Any business wishing to retain or become a leading player in their chosen market will need fibre broadband as an essential tool in order to operate in a competitive environment. “Every day we see growing demand for cloud-based services – off-site data back-ups, Windows 365, enhanced
wi-fi security, multiple wireless devices in the office – meaning high bandwidth is a prerequisite. “Why would any business miss out on free cash to implement fibre broadband over draining its own capital reserves? “Business owners are aware of the importance of fast, reliable broadband. They just need some help understanding how products can enhance profitability.” Joe Dignan, innovation service manager at Bristol City Council, said: “It’s great to have ‘local hero’ com-
panies like Solution IP helping us deliver this programme. “Take up has not been as good as we were hoping so far, so we are keen to get whatever help we can to push the message out as strongly as possible. “People assume there’s a catch but there really isn’t. The money’s not match-funded, it’s genuinely free capital. But it’s only available until March so we have more than 1,600 vouchers to give out by then. If we can do that, we’ll be delighted.” See www.connectionvouchers.co.uk for more information.
Technology
Hive of activity as first business moves in early A FIBREOPTICS company has become the first firm to move in to the Hive business development centre. The centre, part of the J21 enterprise area close to the motorway in Weston-super-Mare, does not officially open until July. But DM Optics didn’t want to wait so the business has already taken up residence. The company, founded by David Madsen in 2002, specialises in optical fibre test equipment, accessories and supplies, providing the photonics – the use of light in information transmission – test and installation equipment to the telecoms sector as well as research and production companies. David said he had long planned to expand the firm and had been looking for the right premises. He said: “When I saw the plans for The Hive I knew this would be the ideal base from which to grow. “The close motorway links, rail network and airport are perfect for easy access to my clients based across the United Kingdom.” He needed an office with space for
● David Madsen, of DM optics, receiving his door key from Rob Hicks, business development co-ordinator at The Hive staff members he intends to hire later in the year and, being early on the uptake, had plenty to choose from. He said there were other benefits to the centre too, such as: “The meeting and conference/training rooms on site and the opportunity to meet and
network with other businesses is a bonus and receiving one invoice each month with all services included makes financial control easy.” He added: “We are proud to be the first business to have moved into The Hive – and look forward to perhaps
being the first to expand here also.” The centre is the new home for the North Somerset Enterprise Agency, and also a step towards the organisation becoming self-sustaining as the income from rents will eventually fund its business support services. Tenants get free access to those services from advisers on hand, as well as use of meeting rooms, secure broadband and reception services. There is room for 40-60 tenants, depending in how much space each needs, and the purpose-built centre is flexible in terms of the size of spaces. Rob Hicks, business development co-ordinator, said: “We were thrilled when David chose The Hive as the location for his business and its growth simply from our plans and delighted he signed as our first tenant. Already DM Optics has been joined by Abersea Engineering, Joyce Oliver Wealth Management and Green Frog Connect and we are in talks with a range of other businesses and organisations from North Somerset and beyond.”
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
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Property
Safety clothing
Developer thrilled by Electricity House deal ● DEVELOPER Crest Nicholson has completed the purchase of the former Electricity House, once home to SWEB, in Colston Avenue, Bristol. The £27 million scheme will see the art deco building converted into 85 luxury flats with a concierge loggy and some business space on the ground floor. Work is due to start shortly with a sales launch early next year. The developer had previously announced plans for the property, designed by renowned architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, but has just confirmed the deal. Development director Ben Miller said he was “thrilled”.
● What the Electricity House development will look like
● Above and below, the safety clothing for night workers
Seeing the light New illuminated kit wins over road workers Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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time to take appropriate action and this should help to keep them safer too.” Fhoss hopes the extra safety offered will convince more firms with staff working on roads to follow suit and place orders. It already supplies a number of railway contractors. David White, logistics manager at Balfour Beatty Rail UK, praised the Fhoss products after a trial last year. He said: “The men on the ground were initially opposed to the idea of something new; they were happy with what they had and were reluctant to change. “However, with some gentle persuasion, they trialled the products and subsequently realised that they were comfortable, easy to use, fitted well, and more importantly, made them stand out even when in areas of complete darkness. “From my point of view, it is essential for our men to be wearing Fhoss. Before we introduced these products, our men wore head torches along with traditional PPE. “In certain conditions this combination is fine. However, it is not always ideal as it means that workers cannot be seen from behind, especially if there is low ambient light. “When our men wear Fhoss, they stand out in all light conditions, at all times and from all angles.”
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OAD workers will be safer at night thanks to a local supplier of high visibility clothing. Fhoss, based in Weston-super-Mare, has been working to develop more effective outfits for staff working on motorways at night. The firm has developed new attire with trunk roads operator Scotland TanServ to help keep its workers in the West of Scotland safer. The company has taken a lead from the railway industry where the speed of trains and longer braking distances mean workers need to be seen from a significant distance. The new powered light safety wear will allow drivers to see road workers from 300 metres, even in harsh conditions, and up to 1.5 miles in perfect conditions. The bright strips work by using reflective technology combined with a battery powered illuminated core. This means that unlike traditional high-visibility tape, Fhoss illuminates without the need for ambient light such as vehicle headlights or street lights. Chief executive Andrew Kimitri said: “We’ve been working closely with Scotland TranServ over the last few months to develop its capabilities in their field. “Following a successful trial the trunk roads operator is now ready to roll out our product to key employees. We hope other such organisations observe their use of this technology and follow a similar personal safety lead.” Russell Rennie, Scotland TraServ’s contract director, said: “The health and safety of our employees and those of our contractors is of the utmost importance to Scotland TranServ. “We are looking to the latest innovations from a number of related industries to make our workers safer. “Having trialled this product with a handful of our employees last year, we are now preparing to roll it out to other significant parts of our business. “If motorists are able to see our workers from a longer distance then they have more
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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Sector
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Finance
Book makers
Used book seller to shake up market ● A BOOKSELLER is planning to shake-up the second hand book market by paying royalties to the authors. Bookbarn International, based near Paulton, is working with the Authors’ Licensing and Collecting Society to launch The Book Author Resale Right – a pilot programme that will pay authors whose books are resold. The firm sells hundreds of thousands of second-hand books a year. Managing director and entrepreneur William Pryor, pictured, who took over the business with a partner early last year, said previously authors had not benefited from the second-hand sale of their work. He said: “I thought it was outrageous that the creators of the products my business deals in don't receive a penny when their books are resold. So I’m delighted that our collaboration with ALCS will see authors of the used books we sell receive a percentage of the net profit we make. “We hope that others who make money from second-hand books will follow our lead.” The firm will send a list of its sales to the society every quarter and pay a royalty to authors on the organisation’s database. Owen Atkinson, chief executive of the society, said: “We are very happy to play our part in bringing the Book Authors Resale Right to life and feel this is a very positive step in ensuring authors are duly compensated for the ongoing use of their works.” Meanwhile Bookbarn International has raised almost half its £75,000 target to pay for future expansion of the business, by selling a six per cent stake in shares through Crowdcube. The firm is one of the biggest used booksellers in the UK, with a wide range of antiquarian, rare and collectable books. It is based in a warehouse 10 miles south of Bristol where it houses 800,000 books. William, a great-great grandson of Charles Darwin, is something of a writer himself, having penned poetry, prose and film scripts.
Accountants enjoy a little horseplay
● The team from Bristol-based Winning Post at Royal Ascot
Winning ways Family firm nets Royal Ascot success Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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N independent Bristol bookies has turned heads after taking one of the main spots at last week’s Royal Ascot meeting. Winning Post, a 12-store family bookies from Bristol, was invited to take one of the main on-course betting shops at the meeting. It took the slot previously held by Ladbrokes and sat alongside established firms BetFred and the Tote. Boss Roy Holbrook, 59, took nine staff from his branches to the meeting, and was on hand himself to run the operation. The firm took 10,000 bets in the course of five days. “It was absolutely frantic but we got through it,” he said. “We were the first independent to be invited so it was a bit special.”
He said the firm had a great position at the event. “We could hardly have been more central in the grandstand. “We have had the experience of running a shop at Bristol City’s Ashton Gate football ground before but nothing quite like this.” Punters placed bets worth £252,000 from the 30 races with Winning Post over the course of the meeting. Roy said the firm did well on the result of the three big handicap races with relative outsiders winning but took at hit on heavily backed Kingman winning the St James’ Palace Stakes. The firm will be at Ascot for every meeting for the rest of the season, and as for next year, Roy said: “We would love to come back.” The 59-year-old started in the business 27 years ago and still has the majority stake. The chain now has nine stores around Bristol, including in Chipping Sodbury, Shirehampton, Yate, and Clifton as well as two in Wales
“ It was absolutely frantic but we got through it. We were the first independent to be invited so it was a bit special.” Winning Post boss Roy Holbrook and one in Gloucester. It is a family business, with Roy’s wife Annette, sons David and Lee and other family members involved. Roy, a former scaffolder, said he believed there was room in the market for competition and so far has been proved right. “Our theory is that if you accommodate a customer, they’ll come back,” he said. “So of we can find a price, we’ll take the bet.”
There are two points when planning is crucial
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N ANY field of human endeavour, the most successful enterprises have started out with a clearly defined plan. This applies almost universally, whether you are a manager of a sports club facing a major tournament, a writer setting out the initial structure of a novel, an engineer laying the course of a railway, or an explorer embarking on a voyage of discovery. However it is surprising how many businesses start out or enter a phase of expansion based on no more than the notion that this would be a “good idea”. It is at these two points – start up and expansion – that planning is most crucial. It is far more than sitting down and constructing excel spreadsheets. This does come later, but first
Know how Andrew Fisher Executive director Alanbrookes Ltd 01934 863386 AndrewFisher@ Alanbrookes.co.uk www.alanbrookes.co.uk
of all you must have a defining vision. What does success look like? Once you have decided what this destination is, you can make plans to reach it, but equally importantly, unless you
know absolutely why you want to get there, it is easy to get lost, or side tracked. Any plan must be capable of flexibility, rather than being blindly followed when external circumstances change. If it still does not deliver the goods when adapted to these stresses, then it’s time to cut your losses and move onto the mythical plan B. There have been many successful enterprises where the initial plan had to be changed because it could not deliver the vision. This did not mean that vision was invalid. Because of the failure rate of start ups, it is key to have a written plan. There is commercially available software which will enable you to write a professional looking plan, and it is
worth spending time and a modest amount of money on this. In all cases your main business plan should be backed up by a marketing plan. You might be able to get the operations, administration and finance near perfect, but without a way to bring your products or services to market this will be wasted effort. On the other hand, if the marketing plan is sound and the sales come rolling in then any mistakes in the other fields are capable of rectification. Unless yours is purely a lifestyle business, you will inevitably contemplate expansion at some stage. This is another time when planning is key. You may know that a wider market is out there, but your financial and human resources are likely to be limiting factors. It is
● ACCOUNTANTS saddled up for a lesson in leadership from an equestrian expert. Jude Jennison, above, talked about learning leadership skills through observing the nature of horses. She was one of three speakers at Bristol Golf Centre at an event organised by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. Other speakers were Duncan Brodie managing director of Goals and Achievements, who talked about how to achieve professional career success, and Steve Swientozielskyj a CIMA council member, who offered an insight on how the finance function has transformed over time. David Johnson, South West chair for CIMA, said: “We are working in fast changing times and there is a constant need for accountants and other finance professionals, who function at the core of the business, to keep up with the pace. Not only is it vital that they have technical skills but they also need to apply financial disciplines in business management, to influence and lead people within and beyond their organisations. “
Retail
Triathlon Shop opens Harbourside outlet ● THE Triathlon Shop officially opens its new outlet in the Harbourside this weekend. The store moved from Temple Quay because it needed more room - the new shop is six times bigger than the old one. Now it fills 9,000 sq ft of retail space in the Harbourside, hoping to become a destination store as well as capturing the trend for fitness and healthier living among Bristol’s city centre residents. The store includes a swimming pool, gait analysis suites, workshop, bike fitting room and treatment room alongside a social space for customers and plenty of shopping space.
tempting when the start up and consolidation phase has been successful to try to expand on all fronts, especially when the economy is buoyant, as is currently the case in the Bristol area. Instead you should target your expansion to make the best use of your resources – fight the battles you have a really good chance of winning. Be specific in your targets – a new service to a certain number of customers at a certain price, an existing service to a certain number of new customers in a certain geographical area, and so forth. To return to analogies in other fields, a professional cricket team needing to increase the run rate in chasing the opposition’s total will seek to exploit particular bowlers, particular overs, particular areas of the field, and so forth. If they just have a vague notion of “getting on with it” then they’ll probably come up short.
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Transport
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Development
Key businesses need spaces to grow
● Keen Airbus cyclists Jay Wheelwright, Jerry Wilson, Dave Copper and Tim Dew surrounded by the hundreds of bikes in the Airbus cycle racks at Filton
Fifth of Airbus workers now cycle into work THEY may make aeroplanes for a living but the staff at Airbus in Filton choose a greener way to get to work. Almost one in five of the 4,000 employees at the site cycle to work, according to a commuter survey by North Bristol SusCom and South Gloucestershire Council.
The number of cyclists has gone up about 50 each year since 2012, thanks to an employee-led cyclists group, better bike park, showers and drying facilities which opened last year. The cyclists group has almost 700 members, with some riding in from as far as Chepstow, Bath and Portishead.
The main goal, however, is to encourage more cycling from shorter distances around the northern fringe of Bristol. Simon Tomlinson, who leads the group, said; “These figures are fantastic and confirm what we have always known: that cycling is the
commuting method of choice for so many people. The members of the bike users group are extremely grateful for the investment Airbus has made in providing benchmark cycling facilities. It goes to show what can be achieved when everyone works together.”
● THE so-called knowledge economy will be key to Bristol’s growth, business leaders were told. More than 50 business leaders gathered at an event organised by commercial property firm GVA looking at the knowledge economy technology, media, telecoms, IT, medical advanced manufacturing and science - in core cities. James Kingdom, principal researcher at GVA, said: “In the next four years, the knowledge economy is set to grow faster than the rest of the UK economy with an estimated 16 per cent growth. “That’s why Bristol has the chance to play on its strengths in this sector and develop the right real estate opportunities to develop the environment for growth.” But to do so, the city needs the right kind of space for businesses and many of the empty offices in Bristol don’t fit the bill. More spaces are needed similar to the Engine Shed, the centre for developing businesses at Temple Meads, which is currently full. Engine Shed director Nick Sturge, speaking at the debate, said flexibility on lease terms, a mix of workshop and desk space and good connectivity are all important, as well as being inspirational, lively places to do business. Richard Pearce, director of TCN UK Ltd, behind another success story, nearby Temple Studios, said: “A way forward to open up new opportunities could be to tap into new, innovative funding sources, to facilitate brownfield development, which by its nature is high-cost.”
Food
We’re lovin’ it! £13m Mcboost for city a year Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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TS Big Macs, fries and milkshakes have been a popular treat for families for decades, and now fast food chain McDonald’s has revealed the full extent of its value to Bristol’s economy – £13 million every year. The figure comes from a report commissioned by the firm to mark its 40th anniversary in the UK, and is made up of the value of goods and services provided by the business and its suppliers locally. McDonald’s opened its first Bristol outlet in Broadmead in November 1985 and there are now eight in the city council area, employing 700 people. Most of the local restaurants are run by franchisee Mike Guerin, above, who has 13 in total around the Bristol area and in Wiltshire, and he said being part of the community was “hugely important” to the business. “I’m thrilled to see the impact our jobs contribution in particular has made to the local area,” he said. “I am a firm believer that you need to be part of a community to be successful in that community, and as such I am passionate about giving young people especially the chance to get workplace experience. “We have a fantastic education programme
in place that we have worked hard to build, meaning that all of my people, from a crew member starting out in their first job, to a restaurant manager have the chance to learn whilst they earn. “My ambition is to continue the great work that my teams are already doing in Bristol from daily litter patrols to supporting grassroots football clubs like Bradley Stoke Youth FC for many more years to come.” McDonald’s is known for its staff training programmes as it tries to shake off the image of a “McJob” and offer career paths for its employees to develop within the business. One such employee is Heather Stroud, 31, who manages staff development in Mike’s store. She said: “When I finished university in 2009, the recession was hitting and I was really struggling to find a job. “I joined McDonald’s as a crew member and was determined to make a good impression. My hard work soon paid off and I was quickly given the opportunity to enrol on the management programme. “I’m overseeing 40 staff members on the apprenticeship programme and I find helping them develop and seeing the difference the qualification makes to them very rewarding.” McDonald’s UK chief executive Jill McDonald said: “To mark our 40 years in the UK we wanted to take a close look at our economic and community impact, from the jobs we have created to the world leading supply chain we have built.”
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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Construction
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Grant funding
‘Act now to make most of £500m pot’ ● A BUILDING company is advising small and medium-sized housing developers to make the most of money announced in the last Budget to unlock sites stalled during the downturn. The Builder’s Finance Fund was part of a package to help stimulate the construction sector. Paul Evans, pictured below, managing director of Pilning-based Helm Construction is urging developers to act now to make the most of the £500 million pot. The firm works on numerous small to medium-sized build projects across the region and Paul has seen first-hand the impact the economic downturn had on the sector. The scheme offers loans to SME developers and helps sites of up to 250 homes that have been put on ice due to difficulty in accessing funds. With the number of homes being built running at about half the number required in the UK the initiative is aimed at easing the growing housing crisis in Britain. Paul said: “With banks still acting cautiously when lending for small residential developments, this funding could help unlock housing units stalled due to difficulty in accessing finance. My fear is that not enough build firms are fully aware of this new source of funding and should look into it further before it’s too late. Our advice to any small-scale developer is to act now and to see if they could make the most of this latest tranche of funding for the build sector.” Paul is optimistic as the number of contracts Helm Construction is tendering for increases and confidence returns to the market but is also keen to stress the need to make it easier for SME builders to attain land in the first place. He added: “SME house builders accounted for the majority of new-build properties so it’s vital they are given access to the right sort of finance in order to not only grow but to provide much needed housing stock.”
● Staff at green energy firm Solarsense, which has secured £59,000 to develop a zero carbon hub and training centre
Renewable energy firm to create eco show house after £59k grant Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk
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WO local businesses have been awarded grants to help them grow and train the future of their respective industries. Renewable energy firm Solarsense has secured £59,000 to develop a zero carbon hub and training centre. Meanwhile Cotham salon Hair At 58 has been awarded £16,000 to set up a training academy. Both grants were channelled from the Regional Growth Fund through the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership.
Solarsense, based in Backwell, will be creating a purpose-built show home to demonstrate how the latest renewable technology can be integrated into a family home. The eco-house will also be a place for architects and consultants to see how easy it is to incorporate renewable energy into their designs. It will feature tours and a space for seminars and workshops on renewable technologies and energy efficiency. Electricity will be generated by roof mounted solar PV while heating will be supplied by a heat pump. The building will also showcase underfloor heating, energy storage, low-energy lighting and other energy-efficient technologies. Solarsense director Stephen Barrett said: “With the Government en-
couraging the move towards zerocarbon homes there was a need for a regional centre with working examples of renewable energy systems. As well as providing a unique location to see and learn about green technologies, the project will also create local jobs and hopefully become a focal point for all things sustainable.” Andrew Youl, project manager for the West of England LEP, which manages the West of England Growth Fund, said: “Supporting companies such as Solarsense, who are champions of low-carbon technologies, which we have identified as a significant area of growth for the West of England, is key for us.” Also benefiting from LEP support is Hair At 58, which will take on 12
apprentices over the next three years. Owner Sam Bell said: “The grant will help us buy all the resources that we need to train the apprentices. We shall be using the latest interactive technology including iPads and whiteboards. Ms Bell, who has been in the industry for 17 years, set up on Cotham Hill five years ago with a staff of four and now employs 15. She has now bought the entire four-storey building – once a house – to expand her business. Improvements include a balcony floor and plans for a day spa. There are also plans for a sensory garden at the rear of the salon where plants like rosemary, mint and lavender will be grown.
Commuting
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Still time to sign up for the Big Challenge ● MORE than 2,000 people have signed up for the Big Commuting Challenge just over a week since it was launched, The team behind the initiative has introduced a series of challenges for those taking part. The first is asking people to take photos of the most scenic part of their route to or from work using the #capturemycommute hashtag, with prizes for the best one. The challenge, launched by Travelwest last week, encourages people to walk, cycle, lift-share or use public transport as part of their daily commute. The scheme runs until Friday, August 1 and people can register to take part throughout the duration. Abigail Smith, of Travelwest, said: “Week one might be over but there is still time to sign up to the Big Commuting Challenge.” Business West, charity Sustrans and North Bristol SusCom are also backing the scheme.
Law
Merging legal firms will target ‘gap in market’ TWO Bristol law firms have announced their intention to merge into one combined practice. Barcan Woodward and Kirby Sheppard will form a new firm, whose name will be announced later this year. They believe it will fill a significant gap in the marketplace between small and large law practices in the city. Barcan Woodward was established in 1992 and is a four partner firm of solicitors, with city centre offices in King Street and also in Bedminster, Horfield and Gloucester Road. Kirby Sheppard was established in the 1960s and has offices in Queen Square, Clifton, Kingswood and Thor nbury. In addition to their shared specialisms, which include family law, probate, conveyancing and personal injury, Kirby Sheppard has particular expertise in employment law. Barcan Woodward brings a respected
and medical negligence division. The union between the two established firms will also broaden and strengthen the range and depth of legal services available to their existing clients, who are based around Bristol, the South West and nationally. Chris Miller, managing partner at Barcan Woodward, said: “There is a natural synergy between us and Kirby Sheppard. We are both well established, share a common ethos and have built strong reputations on our personal approach to client service. “I believe this a perfect integration of two organisations. Combining our practice areas will enable us to balance and strengthen our teams, whilst offering further benefits and services through our additional expertise in medical negligence and employment law. I see Kirby Shep-
● Bill Willcocks of Kirby Sheppard and Chris Miller of Barcan Woodward pard as the obvious partner with which to build upon our previous successes.” Bill Willcocks, Kirby Sheppard’s managing partner, said: “We are delighted to be announcing this merger with Barcan Woodward.
“Both of our firms have a solid track record in delivering excellent client service and the added depth of experience that comes with this merger will be a tremendous asset, both to us and our clients. “I am genuinely excited about growing our practice areas and increasing our knowledge bank, further expanding our ability to fully support our clients’ ever changing legal needs.” The new firm will be characterised by a focus on high quality, accessible legal advice and will have a strong community presence, with a network of branches in and around Bristol. “The merger will build upon decades of collective experience and will also provide a strong foundation on which to develop new practice areas. The merger is expected to be confirmed later this year and the new firm will launch in April 2015.
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
7
Business Pulse
Survey Lending remains a serious concern The Bristol Post and BDO launched the Business Pulse survey to get to the heart of the issues that matter to the city’s SMEs. Today we reveal results of the second subject – access to finance.
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control over their business as possible. The second most popular reason was simply because it was the most straightforward option available to them. Meanwhile a total of 15 per cent based their decision on the strength and the quality of their existing relationship with the financial institution offering funding. A further 11 per cent said it seemed to be the most obvious and natural choice to make taking into account the size of their business. The West of England Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has been leading the way when it comes to providing funding to businesses looking to expand but it appears that the message has not always got through. 27 per cent said they were unaware of the funding scheme and over half (54 per cent)
expensive and they don’t have to give part of their business away. “Private equity works very well in buy and build strategies, where there are ownership changes and buyouts. “It is also worth highlighting that businesses go in life cycles so a company not interested in private equity right now could well be in a few years time.” Guy Davies, managing partner, WestBridge Capital
said they had no experience of working with the LEP. Laura Shaw, below, corporate finance partner at BDO in Bristol commented: “The challenge for businesses is to understand what type of funding is the best fit for them. Funding is available, there is as wide a range of sources today as ever before; it is just a case of knowing whether or not it is right for your business. There are a lot of very good advisers in Bristol who can help people find the right path so seeking advice is very important. “When it comes to private equity, it appears that there are perhaps some misconceptions about what such an external investment will mean for the business. Companies should familiarise themselves with the options available and carefully consider the choice of what the business will look like without such
● In order to attract high calibre employees you need to offer a competitive salary that reflects their skill set; this is an area that many of the companies we have invested in have been able to do thanks to the injection of capital. “While I am not surprised to see that most businesses surveyed indicated they would raise funds from within moving forward, I would ask them to consider if they are constraining their real growth potential with this approach.
an investment versus what it will be like with the support as well as where it could potentially be in a few years time.” Laura believes that the fact that so many businesses are looking to fund growth from within is quite surprising. She added: “Businesses should look wherever possible to grow and develop, in both domestic and international markets; standing still is not an option when competitors may be aggressively looking to grow in the current market as the economy is starting to move forward. “While we welcome cautious behaviour as many businesses are still feeling their way out of recession and confidence may still be relatively fragile; businesses need to consider whether or not they can realistically find enough working capital from their own cash reserves to fully em-
“Obviously external investment is not appropriate for every firm, but we would encourage companies to give serious consideration to the difference it could make. Most of the businesses we have invested in have used our funding to increase the scale and quality of their teams and this has been a major factor in supporting their growth.” Paul Oldham, Business Growth Fund regional director, South West and South Wales
brace their growth potential.” Graham Randall, below, partner and head of BDO in Bristol, added: “The LEP has been one of the key players in terms of trying to encourage growth and create wealth and new jobs in Bristol and the greater city region. “It appears that this message has not got through to every business but we would expect that to change in the years ahead. I expect the LEP to be a key driver for the local economy particularly when the Enterprise Zones start to gain traction and momentum.” ● The third Business Pulse Report, covering the issue of international trade, will be published in August. Businesses wanting to take part in future Business Pulse surveys can register interest by contacting Isabel Duckworth via isabel.duckworth@bdo.co.uk.
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HE second Business Pulse special report published today by accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP, in partnership with the Bristol Post, takes a close look at one of the most important issues affecting the business community – access to funding. While there is little doubt that the economy is well on the way to recovery, the issue of lending remains a serious concern. Recent reports suggest that the amount of borrowing has actually fallen in the last quarter despite the Gover nment’s repeated efforts to boost bank lending for businesses. The second Business Pulse report in a series of three takes a closer look at how business operating in and around the Bristol area feel about the issue and to what extent it affects their ability to grow and expand. Some of the leading businessmen and women from the area agreed to take part in our survey and gave their view on a variety of issues. The Business Pulse Steering Group included the Bristol Mayor, George Ferguson, West of England Local Enterprise Partnership chairman, Colin Skellett, and James Durie, executive director of Business West, together with a cross section of leaders of local firms. When asked How does your company plan to raise funds over the coming year? the biggest number by far, 30 per cent, said they would prefer to raise money from within the business itself, while 15 per cent of companies also stated that they have no plans to raise any cash over the coming 12 months. There also appears to be reticence among businesses to go down routes which may be considered high risk funding, with just a handful saying that they would consider private equity or angel investors (both four per cent). The most popular choice among those looking for sources of funding was going to the bank for a loan, highlighted by just under a third (31 per cent) of respondents. All of this appears to point to a market place which is still predominantly cautious in the wake of the recession, although it also seems that respondents have concerns over how easy it is to access funding. Only 29 per cent of companies anticipated that it would be “very easy” or “easy” to access the funding they required. When it comes to the reason behind choosing which route to take in terms of access to funds, business leaders in Bristol appear to take a very practical approach. The highest number (18 per cent) opted to take the approach that they did in order to maintain as much
● We are looking to work with fast growing SMEs who have ambitions to achieve their growth potential in an expanding market. “Of course not every business falls into this category and so private equity will not always be an appropriate option. “The most important thing is the aspirations of the business owner; a firm seeking to buy a competitor is more likely to try and secure a bank loan because it will be less
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Expert eye Russell Smith Managing director Hunter Selection 01275 371981 russell@hunter selection.co.uk
Time to act to solve UK skills shortage
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ATHER than declining British manufacturing is thriving, due to innovative strategies by companies, many of which were forged in the adversity of the recent recession. But the sector is at risk of collapse due to a severe shortage of skills. Britain is now producing more manufactured product than in 1966, when manufacturing employment was at its peak. The profile of the industry is very different to those days though. The companies that are now the bedrock of British industry have transformed their businesses in order to mitigate the effects of globalisation and successful manufacturers based in low-cost economies, and have become producers of design-intensive and high-value products. However many successful firms are now concerned about the lack of hightech skills in the labour market and some are even worried that their businesses may not be able to compete and survive in future due to their inability to recruit employees with the right expertise. Improving productivity and bolder forecasts which make the news today cannot mask the skills timebomb which has to be addressed. The challenge is to be brave enough to get ahead of the game. Skilled staff cannot be manufactured and experience takes time achieve. Obvious, of course, but not so often reflected in the recruitment policies of so many businesses.From to time employers are able to recruit staff with all the skills they require but more often than not this is a wish-list and the vacancy remains unfulfilled. These companies must have longer-term organic strategies. The recent resurgence of apprenticeships cannot be heralded enough. But there must be a greater will to look at transferable skills; adapting and developing core capabilities to suit new applications and requirements. Recognising the traits of successful staff and building upon these, rather than just looking for a ‘quick fix’ employee who has done the job before, must give a business greater flexibility in the long run. The shortage of skilled staff cannot be resolved overnight. It can only be resolved by a mix of forward-looking strategies and grassroots skill development.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Sector focus: Manufacturing
FROM PLASTIC TO PLANES, Manufacturing is a significant part of the nation’s economy and is staging a recovery. Rupert Janisch takes a look at how it is represented in Bristol.
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ANUFACTURING conjures up images of steelworks, or big robotic factories making parts for the aerospace or automotive industries. And while these make major contributions to the UK manufacturing sector, the term also takes in a diverse range of industries, from food and drink and textiles to electronics, chemicals and plastics. Put them all together and the sector is growing. In the South West, growth is consistent with the country as a whole. We are good at making stuff in this country. Back in the 1970s, manufacturing contributed a quarter of UK GDP. Today, it’s more like 10 per cent – just one of a number of sectors which need to grow to continue our economic recovery.
“ We are increasingly
confident that improving economic conditions are heralding a new era of growth for our manufacturers Simon Howes According to the most recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), there are 12,525 manufacturing companies across the South West. These businesses employ 234,000 people, which equates to 8.5 per cent of the region’s total employment. A recent Manufacturing Outlook survey by EEF and accountancy and business advisory firm BDO, shows that 33 per cent of the region’s manufacturers expect to increase output in the second half of the year. Almost half of manufacturers (45 per cent) have recruited in the past quarter – that’s a country-leading figure – while more than a quarter are expecting order numbers to pick up. Exports, however, remain an issue, with just a handful (six per cent) expecting to growth in this side of their business over the next quarter. Generally though, the signs are all
● Matt Lowe, MD of Giacomini UK
Pic: Jon Kent BRJK20140623B-002
Plumbing supplier bringing business back home Case study
● A SUPPLIER and producer of plumbing equipment based in Yate has identified key opportunities for reshoring – bringing manufacturing back from China and the Far East to the EU. Reshoring is being driven from the US by automotive component suppliers who are winning back orders for equipment that was outsourced to the low-cost economies overseas. Giacomini UK, from Yate in South Gloucestershire, sees a similar opportunity in the British plumbing sector. Giacomini sells Italian-designed plumbing equipment, valves and fittings, as well as providing underfloor heating design and
installation service and heat interface units. The company is the UK marketing arm of the giant Italian Giacomini group, which has one of the most sophisticated manufacturing facilities for this type of equipment in the European Union – the perfect ingredients for reshoring production back. Matt Lowe, managing director of Giacomini UK, said installers and specifiers are increasingly moving their allegiances away from Far East and Asian produced equipment back to EU suppliers. He said: “A whole series of factors are driving the reshoring move back towards EU-produced
positive and the noises coming from those in the know are too. Simon Howes, regional director for the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) said: “We are increasingly confident that improving economic conditions are heralding a new era of growth for manufacturers and this is supported by a number of recent surveys, including our latest Manufacturing Barometer. These have pointed towards an upward turn in growth and increased investment in-
tentions among the UK and South West manufacturing community. “It is particularly encouraging to note that over half (59 per cent) of the SME manufacturers that responded to our latest Barometer report sales growth in the last six months, which is a rise of five per cent from the same time last year. “This looks to have had a positive influence on recruitment plans, as almost half (49 per cent) of respondents indicate that they plan to engage
equipment. Lead times from Asian and Far Eastern-produced equipment has to factor in several weeks at sea. Labour costs in places like China are increasing dramatically as are transport charges. But the main message we are picking up from our customers is that EU-produced brassware and fittings are higher quality. They are made using top-quality raw materials and are produced to higher and better specifications and tolerances. “The challenge we now face is being able to produce these better quality products, at equivalent prices and be able to meet just-in-time or short delivery demands.”
more staff. There also appears to be a growing appetite for investment, with 44 per cent of the companies questioned stating they intend to invest in developing new technologies. This is the highest number recorded when measured against the same period in previous years. “Clearly there are still barriers to overcome as businesses strive to provide enhanced value while managing an increasing cost base, but such positive results suggest that the
www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
9
Know how John Talbot
MAKERS ON THE UP AGAIN Wallet maker aiming to double turnover Case study ● IF you’re tapping into a niche market, you may as well make it a big niche. So while making wallets for blue badges in vehicles is a fairly specific product, when there are almost three million holders in the UK there’s great business potential. The Blue Badge Company has a workshop in Montpelier and offices in St Andrew’s. Set up by managing director Ellen Green in 2011, the company attracted the interest of Boots at a trade show and is now targeting turnover of £400,000 this year – double what it produced last year. Alongside other outlets, the wallets are stocked in all of Boots’ 2,500 UK stores and Ellen and her team are currently making 1,300 units per week. Ms Green said: “A year ago I was
● Ellen Green, managing director of the Blue Badge Company still making the wallets in my back bedroom and in the last 12 months the business has transformed from a tiny operation selling about five wallets a day to nationally
distributed product. “Meeting Boots has increased our brand awareness and enabled us to maintain and develop our UK manufacturing. Our skilled team of
makers vary from mums doing piecework at home to textiles students creating fabric designs. We’ve not only created jobs and training, but also a wonderful and affordable everyday product that offers choice and allows people to show a little of their individuality and style.” A big challenge Blue Badge Company has faced as a UK manufacturer is cash-flow. Working with a large retailer like Boots has been great for volume and status but payment terms can be unfavourable, with stock and staff needing to be paid for well in advance. Still the company’s bank has been helpful with overdrafts and loans, allowing the Blue Badge Company to meet demand and grow sustainably. Ms Green said: “We have a low-cost product to produce, with a high margin. “Production costs are still higher than they would be if it was made overseas, but our brand is about UK quality and we wouldn’t even consider having it made anywhere else.”
Exporting offers the best chance for Bristol businesses to grow ● PERHAPS the best opportunity for Bristol’s manufacturers to grow is through exporting. On Friday the city hosts the UK’s first export fair, in support of the International Festival of Business. Organised by UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) and Business West, the export fair takes place at the M shed. A selection of the region’s innovative companies will be showcasing their products and services. Stephen Williams, MP for Bristol West, will also speak about the continuing importance of exports. Following the morning’s presentations, the fair will be open
region’s SME manufacturers are more than playing their part in helping to create a strong base for the country’s economic recovery. “While well known for its strength in aerospace, Bristol is also home to an array of other thriving manufacturing sectors including medical, rail, electronics, printing and packaging and food and drink. MAS has supported many innovative companies including Pulse Roll Label Products, which specialises in the
for visitors to explore different zones where international trade experts will be on hand to offer advice for both novice and experienced exporters. Russell Jones, UKTI regional director for the South West said: “Our role at UKTI is to ensure South West companies continue to export and make the most of any opportunities available. “The Export Fair is the ideal platform for the region’s businesses to explore how to take advantage of overseas commercial opportunities and showcase what the region has to offer the rest of the world.” Phil Smith, pictured, Business West’s managing director said:
production of inks for the label printing industry. “I have a great deal of confidence in our manufacturers, many of which are highly sophisticated and creative operations. We will continue to seize every opportunity to promote and support the development and growth of their products and services and to acknowledge the outstanding people working in this important sector of the economy.” The national manufacturing
“Exporting is crucial to the growth of our regional economy and this week of international events is designed to inspire businesses to explore overseas markets. I am delighted to see that 150 businesses have booked to attend the fair so far and I would encourage many more businesses to come along and consider their exporting potential. “No matter what size your business is, if you are successfully selling in this country, you can sell abroad with endless opportunities. “You just need to make sure you
growth forecast is now 3.6 per cent, a rise from the 2.7 per cent forecast at the beginning of the year. The Government has put a lot of effort into boosting the manufacturing sector and according to John Talbot from BDO in Bristol, it’s working. He said: “Government manufacturing policy is clearly paying dividends and is creating an environment in which South West manufacturers are comfortable enough to commit to fu-
take advantage of all the help available to you. From researching markets, finding partners abroad, going on trade missions to ensuring your documentation is correct so that you get paid on time, Business West and UKTI can help. And the beauty of the Export Fair is that you get access to all the help you need, all in one place, all on one day.” For more information on market-specific events taking place during the International Festival of Business visit www.ifb2014.com
ture investment. This is a very positive indicator for the rest of the year.” Phil Brownsord, EEF South West region director, added: “The continuing trend for strong positives is a further boost for businesses emerging from the shadow of the recession and a further boost to the local economy. Manufacturers in this region will also have an important role to play in helping to sustain broad based growth across the UK.”
BDO LLP in Bristol 0117 930 1500 john.talbot@bdo.co.uk www.bdo.co.uk
Flying start for our manufacturers
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ANUFACTURERS across the South West have reported a great start to the year, with output, orders and employment intentions all on the up. Our most recent Business Trends report highlighted that manufacturers’ growth prospects for the rest of 2014 has also strengthened, with confidence in the sector rising to an all-time high. However, manufacturers are still facing many challenges. At the risk of oversimplifying, there are three key priorities: turning confidence into investment, expanding international operations and exports, and addressing the skills gap that’s adorned the sector for far too long. As we gear up for next year’s General Election, we can expect manufacturing to be at the centre of many a manifesto. With the economy now showing real signs of growth, the Government must not miss this chance to put the right framework in place for manufacturers to make the most of the recovery. It has already made progress. According to our Engineered in Britain report, 41% of businesses believe the current Government’s policies have helped the manufacturing sector (up from 26% last year). However, they are less convinced they are performing well on manufacturing-specific policy. The Government must now work to gain cross-party support and agreement on a long term, strategic framework that goes beyond the term of a single parliament to help provide a clear structure for the many manufacturing initiatives. This strategy must encourage long-term investment within the sector, tackle the inherent skills shortage and provide greater access to international markets. All the statistics point to a positive future. The fact that they are underpinned by a strengthening of exports adds further stability to the foundations of growth. This should give confidence to the Government that its support to the sector is starting to achieve results and if implemented in a targeted fashion we will continue to reap the rewards. If we can face these challenges head on, manufacturers will thrive.
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www.bristolpost.co.uk/business
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
OUT AND ABOUT WITH BRISTOL’S Big Green Week VIP reception at Smith & Williamson
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● Bristol Mayor George Ferguson, Smith & Williamson partner Dave Mouncey, Big Green Week chair Alastair Sawday, and environmentalist Jonathon Porritt
● Dan Raffety of Shambala Festival, Robin Maynard of Avon Wildlife Trust and Ian Barrett of Green Capital
UPPORTERS and sponsors of the Big Green Week gathered at the Bristol offices of accountancy and investment management group, Smith & Williamson, for a VIP reception on Friday, following a ‘green facts’ bus tour of the city sponsored by Bristol Sightseeing. The reception was attended by over 50 people including environmentalist Jonathon Porritt who had given a talk earlier in the day on his latest book, The World We Made, providing an insight into his vision of the world in 2050 – a world which is connected, collaborative and truly sustainable. Mayor George Ferguson officially opened the reception and Alastair Sawday, Chair of the Big Green Week, provided the welcoming address. “It was great to be able to show our support for the Big Green Week which has laid the foundations for Bristol as it looks ahead to 2015 and the opportunities and responsibilities associated with being European Green Capital,” said Dave Mouncey, a partner at Smith & Williamson. “It was good to see so many familiar faces and to reflect on the role businesses should play in creating a sustainable future for everyone.” Smith & Williamson played its part in marking Big Green Week by rallying staff to take part in a Big Green Bike Ride after work and staging a Big Green Breakfast for all staff who found a green way to get to work one day. The firm has also redesigned the recycling points throughout its offices to encourage people to recycle more. “This occasion is a reminder of quite how much is happening here, how much we depend on each other's
● Carmel McQuaid of M&S and Elsie Bryant of Big Green Week
● Environmentalist Jonathon Porritt and Ciaran Mundy of Bristol Pound
● Shankari Raj Edgar of Nudge and Ian Roderick of Green Capital
commitment and trust, and how vital it is to maintain momentum within – and beyond – the Green community,” said Alastair Sawday. “Behavioural and policy changes are not a luxury; they are vital. Bristol is already a leading city in the UK for the green jobs sector, and we want a lot more of them. As the Green City showcase for
the whole of Europe in 2015, the place to come and see new environmental technologies and to do green business, we have to deliver on our promises. That’s why we are delighted that our sponsors continue to invest in us and make sure that Big Green Week will still be there in 2015 and beyond.”
West Country Travel Collective at Brooks Guest House, St Nicholas Market
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HE sunny courtyard and Rocket Caravans on the roof of the Brooks Guest House, in the heart of St Nicholas Market, hosted the recent West Country Travel Collective. The event brings together locally based tour operators, travel writers and bloggers, travel agents, hoteliers and travel PR, representing the talented travel trade in the West Country. “There are so many travel press events that take place in London, but there is so much travel trade based in and around Bristol, Bath and beyond in the West Country,” said InsideAsia Tours’ James Mundy. The West Country Travel meet-ups have been quite informal for some years, meeting at small venues across Bristol, but the event now attracts around 60 people each time with
other recent meetings taking place at venues including Double Tree Hilton and the Bristol Hotel. “We aim to hold at least four West Country Travel meet-ups a year.” said Google Travel editor Fiona Quinn, “This is a great opportunity for us locally based travel writers to find out what is happening in the world and a great opportunity for local hotels and venues to publicise themselves by getting involved”. The Brooks Guest House event was limited to 30 people who snubbed the World Cup to attend. Fiona added: “The venue provided an almost continental feel in the Bristol evening sun with a good turnout from Bristol-based travel including, Japan specialists InsideJapan Tours, Latin American specialists Senderos and Bristol-based charity The Travel Foundation.”
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
BUSINESS COMMUNITY
GALLERIES GALORE
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Bristol and Bath Apprenticeship Awards
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Business diary The Bristol Post Business Awards: A celebration of all that’s great about Bristol business run by the Bristol Post. A great chance to network and entertain clients. From 7pm today, Wednesday, at the Passenger Shed, Temple Meads. Book tickets online at www.bristolpost.co.uk/ businessawards. Preview of Tastetech’s new installation at Explore@Bristol: Find out how taste encapsulation actually works, with founder Janis Sinton, today, Wednesday, 6-8.30pm. Call 0117 3707785 or visit www.iod.com/ swestevents to book. Women in Renewables: Celebrating the contribution of entrepreneurial women to the growth of renewable energy. Speakers include Dr Nina Skorupska, CEO, Renewables Energy Association. To be held in at TLT’s Redcliff Street offices, 4.30-6pm, tomorrow, Thursday. Landlords’ seminar: Andrews is holding a free landlord seminar tomorrow, Thursday, from 7 to 8pm at the Andrews branch, 12 Badminton Road, Downend. The event is aimed at helping landlords to make the most of their buy-to-let investment. Book a place online at www.andrewsonline.co.uk/ property-sessions.
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USINESSES were looking to the future as they celebrated the achievements of their talented young staff in the Bristol Post and Bath Chronicle Apprenticeship Awards. The awards saw hundreds of employers and apprentices gather at the Bristol City Centre Marriott hotel. Luke Naish, an apprentice carpenter with the Merlin Housing Society, was named overall winner. The 18-year-old lives in Frampton Cotterell, and was also named Outstanding Apprentice of the Year in the construction category. Bristol News & Media managing director Sarah Pullen told the audience: “We should be proud of our young people. They are a real credit to our cities, and it is great that our businesses support this.” Awards were handed out across a host of key sectors including healthcare, service industries, financial and business services, public services and engineering and manufacturing. Sarah also thanked the sponsors of the awards, without whom the celebration of young people’s achievements would not be possible.
● Guest Speaker Tom Herbert
Pics: Michael Lloyd
Exporting Fair: Firms from around the region showcase their products and services with advisers and speakers on hand. Organised by Business West and UKTI, at the M shed. Speakers start at 9.45am and the fair opens from 11.30am on Friday, June 27. Creative crowdfunding workshop: Can Bristol & Bath get at least 100 new creative ideas off the ground before the end of 2014? GoCrowdfundBritain wants to help 100 firms each raise at least £1,000 and is holding a free workshop at the Engine Shed on Friday, June 27, from 6pm-9pm. Register for tickets at eventbrite. Bristol SetSquared Innovation Showcase: Networking and pitching competition for Bristol SetSquared businesses at the Engine Shed, Wednesday, July 2 from 6pm. Mazars Summer Drinks Party: To be held at the Merchants’ Hall, Thursday, July 3, 6-8.30pm. Metcalfes Solicitor summer party: Early evening get together for clients and friends with champagne, canapes and music at 46 Queen Square, from 5.30pm on Thursday, July 3. Ready for business workshop: Introductory workshops for anyone who is exploring the concept of self-employment or starting a business at Leigh Court, Abbots Leigh, BS8 3RA, 10am-4pm, Tuesday, July 8. Contact readyforbusiness@ businesswest.co.uk.
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Email your business events to gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk. Events are sometimes cancelled without us being notified so please check with organisers before travelling.
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Wednesday, June 25, 2014
The back page
Your digest of the week in business
People ● BRISTOL’S women engineers celebrated their achievements this week. The Bristol office of Atikins, the design, engineering and project management firm, marked National Women in Engineering Day with an event attended by 100 of the company’s clients and staff, and some local schoolchildren. Sarah Long, a principal engineer at Atkins, said: “The event provided an excellent opportunity to discuss some of the challenges and opportunities that exist for women in engineering with representatives from a number of prominent local engineering businesses. “It is clear that we need to find new ways to encourage women into engineering roles. According to the IET 2013 Skills Survey, women make up only seven per cent of the UK engineering workforce, representing the lowest percentage in Europe. Given that the UK is currently facing an engineering skills deficit, finding ways to increase the number of women in engineering roles would certainly go a long way toward meeting that demand.” ● Wealth manager Brewin Dolphin has appointed Alex Barrell as the new head of the Bristol office. Alex, right, currently manages discretionary portfolios for private clients, trusts, charities and pension funds. He said: “I am delighted to take on this position and I am confident that the team here will continue to build upon the excellent work achieved over recent years. “I’m very much looking forward to taking up the challenge of my new role and to focus on the tremendous opportunities that Bristol has to offer. My family originates from Bristol and I am delighted to be back!” ● Accountants Bishop Fleming has appointed a new corporate finance director for the West of England. David Abbott joins Bishop Fleming from a similar role at BDO in Bristol.
In numbers Inflation (CPI)
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● Dr Sarah Peers, Kate Warren, Geoff Robins, Anne Kemp, Elspeth Finch and Sarah Long Robert Davey, head of Bishop Fleming’s corporate finance team, said: “David joins us to strengthen our senior team in the West. “His arrival coincides with the launch of our new quarterly index of corporate finance deals for our expanded region, spanning Worcester to Cornwall. That index reveals that this region out-performs the national average for company sales, acquisitions and investment financing. This revelation underlined our need to secure a senior deals specialist for our Bristol office.” ● Bristol-based Jonathan Miles who works for OCS Facilities at Cabot Circus shopping centre has been recognised by HRH The Prince of Wales’ national charity, Business in the Community’s (BITC) annual Responsible Business Awards.
He has been named South West Employee Volunteer of the Year for his exceptional work helping unemployed people back into work through organising events and providing buddying support, which has strengthened relationships between his employer and other key organisations. Jon’s employer OCS Facilities supports BITC by giving candidates work placements in security, cleaning, customer services, car park and reception at Cabot Circus. Jon has been supporting candidates, who are long term unemployed or homeless people, in his own time. He has been involved in site visits for potential candidates, work groups, presentations, placing candidates in work at Cabot Circus and supporting them through the process. Tracy Reed, head of community impact at Business in the Community, said: “Jon’s
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1.01% State Bank £10,000 deposit of India ● South West Employee Volunteer of the Year Jonathan Miles with TV presenter Alex Lovell commitment to helping vulnerable people through his work is an inspiration to us all.”
0.25% £1 deposit
Business savings accounts 1.85% Secure Trust £1,000 deposit Bank 1.40% £5,000 deposit
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