Business 27 August 2014 by BGSD-cs

SUITE DREAMS

NEW RECRUITERS

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Family furnishing firm adds some modern style – page 3

Students target neglected area in the market – page 5

How immigrant workers are filling the skills gap – p8&9

Business bristolpost.co.uk

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AUG 2014

OVERSEAS EXPANSION

FLEDGLING FIRM SPREADS WINGS Young frozen yoghurt entrepreneurs to open AngelBerry outlets in Middle East and Africa – see page 7 EPB-E01-S3

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Card payments

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Overseas markets

Creditcall builds strength across North America A COMPANY which deals with unsupervised card payments – such as those at parking meters – is continuing its expansion into North America. Creditcall, based in Wapping Road in the Harbourside, already counts New York City and the Seattle authorities among its customers. Now the firm, which was recently given the Queen’s Award for International Trade, has reached a deal with Canadian company Desjardins. Creditcall’s global trade is done through partnerships and it has certified the Montreal-based firm to be its fifth partner processor in Canada and 12th on the continent. Dave Witts, president of US payment systems for Creditcall, said: “By certifying with Desjardins, we have not only increased our coverage of the North American market but are opening up the doors for our existing and potential new customers by offering an even wider selection of processors that partner with our payment gateway.” Bruno Di Spirito, a director at Desjardins, said the move would allow it to serve the needs of Creditcall’s clients within the Canadian market. Creditcall, which employs more than 60 people in Bristol, develops and manages technology that connects parking meters, vending machines and pay-by-phone apps to the banks.

● The British trade delegation to India, led by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg. It includes Renishaw and Bristol-based Skills for Health

On a mission Renishaw joins Clegg trade party paying visit to India Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

Construction

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Eurobrick cements great year with move A COMPANY that makes brick cladding is building its own success story as the construction industry recovery continues. Eurobrick has moved to a bigger site at the Newbridge Trading Estate, Brislington, after having what bosses describe as its “most successful year ever” with revenues up 20 per cent. The firm, which employs five people, has been going for 24 years and is on track to do even better this year. The new premises is 65 per cent bigger than the old one, with room for a dedicated showroom where customers can see its product range. Managing director John Mayes said: “This move is a really positive step forward for us and we’re thrilled with the success of the business over the last few years. “We have seen a general upturn in the level of activity in the construction industry that is of course something everyone can be pleased about. By moving into a larger space, we will be able to increase our efficiency as a business and it will make processing orders easier for the warehouse staff.” The firm has created a new role to help staff with the increase in enquiries and orders. John added: “All in all, this really is a fantastic time for Eurobrick.”

OCAL firms joined a high-profile trade mission to India led by the Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Energy. The trip, which ends today, is the first high-level trade mission since India elected new Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May. The delegation of 40 organisations includes precision engineering firm Renishaw, which is based in Wotton-under-Edge and employs hundreds of skilled people in the Bristol

area. Renishaw’s Rhydian Pountney, who co-chairs the Advanced Manufacturing Group of the India-UK Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO), said, “It is a great honour to be invited to attend this mission and comes at a time that Renishaw is making further investments in India. “Today we employ more than 250 staff in India which includes five sales offices supporting our expanding customer base, plus product assembly and software development at our large facility in Pune.” The firm was part of an aerospace wing of the delegation which attended the Great Business Conference in New Delhi on Monday. India’s aerospace market is expec-

ted to be among the top three in the world within 10 years, according to some experts. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “As the leader in the global aerospace industry, the UK can also help India strengthen its lead in this valuable market. “Our aerospace industry, which comprises big names like RollsRoyce, BAE systems, Airbus and Cobham and smaller companies such Group Rhodes, Renishaw and logistics company Patton Air, produces and supplies some of the most pioneering aircraft components in the world.” Organisations from other sectors took part in the mission too, including education, retail and health. Among them was Skills for Health,

which works to ensure the NHS and private employers in the sector can find people with the right skills from its headquarters in Broad Plain, Bristol. The delegation was organised by UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) the government department that helps UK-based companies succeed in the global economy. Ed Davey, Secretary of State of Energy and Climate Change, travels on to Hydrabad today looking for opportunities for British firms in the newly created state of Telangana. India is the seventh largest investor in the UK, spending more than the rest of the EU combined. EXPORT FOCUS: PAGE 7

Hospitality

Hotels hope to benefit from Nato summit THE hospitality sector in the city is hoping to make the most of a major international event taking place just over the Bristol Channel. More than 150 leaders and dignitaries from across the world will be heading to Newport next week for a Nato summit. While many will be staying in Wales, the event is being staged at the Celtic Manor resort which previously hosted the Ryder Cup golf tournament, some people will cross the bridge and use Bristol as a base. Each delegation will have an assortment of civil servants, members

of the media and security in tow. John Dowling, general manager at DoubleTree by Hilton, Bristol, says the summit is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the city as a great place for business and tourism. John said: “It’s vital that the city doesn’t miss the opportunity to showcase the city, its facilities, business acumen and creativity to the delegates, civil servants and members of the media all of whom will be staying in hotels right across the South West. “The summit is opening up Bristol to countries and individuals that may

● John Dowling, general manager at DoubleTree by Hilton, Bristol, says the Nato summit is bringing people to stay in the city not have had dealings with the city in the past and is a great chance to boost tourism and business links. “We have numerous bookings on the back of the summit and we’ll be making sure those who are staying with us are given the best possible service. Their experience will hope-

fully mean repeat business in the future.” This week’s international cricket match between England and India at the County Ground was also expected to help the hotel sector, although the washout result won’t have done much to encourage people to come back.

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Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Retail

New ranges Family-run furnishers adds modern style to old values Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

FURNITURE store that started following a holiday whim by a greengrocer is having a makeover and updating its product lines. Park Furnishers began when former tank commander and NHS administrator Len Coller spotted an opportunity on a break in Portugal. By then, Len was working as a greengrocer but was rather taken with a table and chairs he spied. He bought them and carried them home on the roof rack. After numerous friends complimented his new acquisition, next year Len went back in a lorry and within a few years had handed over the greengrocers and opened Park Fur nishers. The firm is still family run more 47 years later but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t evolved. The store has re-branded, overhauled its website and introduced some new collections. Marking manager Paul Marshall said: “Customer feedback has shown that there has been a demand for us to branch out in terms of products but we’ve also worked hard to preserve the spacious feel of the store and the high levels of customer care and after-sales service we are known for. “The re-brand of the store itself is another great turning point; we’re really excited about the room set-ups which really give people a feel for how items will look in their own homes. “The re-brand means that the store now truly reflects modern living and we’re really pleased with the outcome.” The store stocks more than just the

Real estate

Industrial land deals in area top 2005 levels ● THE volume of industrial land deals in greater Bristol was the biggest since 2005 in the first half of this year. The figures come from the western branch of the Industrial Agents Society, made up of representatives from the region’s leading surveying practices. It shows a total take-up of 1.53 million sq ft whilst 20.25 acres of land was bought, sold or let between January and June this year. The figures are the highest since 2005 for the equivalent period, with a record 126 transactions. For the same period in 2013, 1.41 million sq ft of industrial space and 10.07 acres was sold or let. The largest deal of the period was the letting of the 384,768 sq ft former Morrison’s regional distribution centre at Cribbs Causeway to The Range. The sale to Farm Foods, which is

“ The Farm Foods deal is hopefully the first of many pre-let/pre-sale transactions in the region.” Phil Cranstone, pictured

● Park Furnishers marking manager Paul Marshall in one of the store’s new-look room set-ups dining tables Len started with. It stocks a variety of furniture such as sofas, beds and office furniture as well as soft furnishings, upholstery, art, lighting, mirrors and accessories. The overhaul is a significant investment in the business but while there are new products, Paul says the firm wants to maintain some of the old ways too.

“ While we want to remain true to our core family values we also want to introduce our store to a new generation of home owners.” Paul Marshall

“We have been in Bristol since 1967 and since opening we’ve gained the reputation of being friendly, reliable and great value for money,” he said. “While we want to remain true to our core family values we also want to introduce our store to a new generation of home owners and so we’ve branched out into stocking more exciting collections that can’t be found elsewhere in Bristol.”

Healthcare

Surgeon opens clinic in return to his home city

building a 178,000 sq ft bespoke distribution centre at Central Park in Avonmouth, is seen as more typical of the market. Phil Cranstone, Industrial Agents Society chairman and associate director at DTZ in Bristol, said: “The Farm Foods deal is hopefully the first of many pre-let/pre-sale transactions in the region, and current live occupier requirements seem to indicate that this trend will continue into the second half of 2014, contributing to a positive full year total.” The figures cover the four local authority districts of Bristol City, Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

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

● Professor Mark Whiteley with staff in his new clinic in Clifton In 2000 he invented a new technique called transluminal occlusion of perforating veins, improving on the keyhole surgery techniques and in 2002 formed the Whiteley Clinic. Since 2005 all operations for varicose veins have been performed under local anaesthetic with the new

pinhole techniques rather than stripping veins, reducing pain and bruising and dispensing with general anaesthetic and the need to stay in hospital. Mark added: “The clinic will serve people in the South West who find it difficult to get to Guildford or London

for investigations and treatment. “We have installed the latest duplex ultrasound equipment to accurately diagnose underlying causes of varicose veins. There is also a brand new theatre suite for treatments, all of which are walk-in, walk-out procedures with minimal downtime.”

Advertising Robert Rodgerson Call 07584 003 229 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

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A PROFESSOR is coming back home after opening a specialist private clinic in the city of his birth. Professor Mark Whiteley was born in Brislington and went to school in Henleaze. He went on to open the Whiteley Clinic in London and Guilford and is now opening a third centre, this time at Litfield House Medical Centre in Clifton. The private clinic is for both surgical and non-surgical treatment of varicose veins and venous conditions, a growing business in the healthcare sector. Mark said: “It is very special to me to open the clinic in my home city. I was born and went to school in Bristol and then moved to Bath later on so when I decided to open a third clinic Bristol was my top location choice.” The professor was the first consultant surgeon to introduce minimally invasive varicose vein surgery techniques in the UK when he performed the first procedure in 1999. Chief vascular technologist Judy Holdstock, who assisted in the first operation, is among the specialists who will be working in Bristol.

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Finance

Family concern celebrates with move to Hive A WEALTH management firm has celebrated its fifth birthday with a move into North Somerset’s newest business centre. Joyce Oliver Wealth Management, founded in Elborough near Weston-super-Mare, has taken space in The Hive, in the town’s Junction 21 Enterprise Area. The family business was founded and is managed by Joyce Oliver and offers services such as tax planning, wealth preservation and succession planning. Husband Ian works as practice manager as part of the five-strong team.

● Ian Oliver and Joyce Oliver of Joyce Oliver Wealth Management Joyce said: “I set out five years ago determined to provide a service which is unique, bespoke and tailored to our clients’ financial needs and future aspirations, with a business philosophy focused on being long term trusted advisers delivering quality advice with integrity. “We have our own client charter which sets out how we operate and what we deliver to our clients and what we expect from them. “With most of our business coming through recommendation and our services passed on from clients to their beneficiaries, this approach has helped us build a reputation for excellence. “We concentrate on the life of the wealth as well as the wealth of the living.” The plan is to continue to grow the business by following the same strategy. Joyce said: “We provide exceptionally good financial advice and support, comprehensive knowledge and a friendly and personable approach. That’s our niche.”

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Healthcare

Medical wristband firm lifted by charity support Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

COMPANY that makes medical alert wristbands has won support from a leading charity that is now selling the devices through its online shop. Tap2Tag, based in Kingswood, makes wristbands, small cards and key fobs that contain information about the wearer’s medical condition. They use “near field” technology which means in an emergency they can be activated by a smart phone to learn important details paramedics would need to know, such as that the wearer has epilepsy or has serious allergies. The device can also send a message to previously chosen family members or carers to alert them to the emergency. Now charity Epilepsy Action has agreed to sell the potentially lifesaving devices. The charity campaigns to raise awareness about the condition and improve the lives of the estimated 600,000 people living with epilepsy. Simon Wigglesworth, deputy chief executive at Epilepsy Action, said: “We know from previous research that many people with epilepsy are worried about having a seizure in public. “Devices which give information about a person’s epilepsy and seizure type can be very useful in helping passers-by know what to do if they see someone having a seizure. “We are very pleased to be able to offer these devices to people with epilepsy through our online shop.” Tap2Tag’s managing director, Chris Ford, said: “Ever since we first launched the devices Epilepsy Action has been supportive and enthusiastic about their potential to help many of the hundreds of thousands of people who live with the condition. “The fact that the UK’s number one epilepsy charity, which does so much good work supporting and improving the lives of thousands, believes in our products enough to sell them in its own shop is a source of enormous

Airport

Car park worker’s idea gets seal of approval IN the rush to make a flight for your family holiday or important meeting, it’s easy to forget to do something. One of the surprisingly common mistakes travellers make is leaving their car window open – not ideal when the British weather sets in. It’s a problem Bristol Airport has seen many times, especially as it has 14,000 spaces, making it the biggest on-site car park in the country. Car park attendant Ellis Mead, pictured, has taped cardboard across many people’s open windows but it was hardly a perfect solution. He decided the business should do something more. Ellis found just that after speaking to a firm in Exeter called Packexe, which makes a glazing film often used to protect inside homes during building works. Now, after a successful trial, the airport is rolling out the use of the product across its car parks. Graham Howell, customer operations manager (ground transportation), said, “As an airport we are always looking at ways of improving customer experience.” Ellis said: “It gives me a great sense of job satisfaction, knowing that I have been involved from the very early stages of resolving a problem faced by passengers and seeing it now used at the airport.”

Startups Awards ● Chris Ford with the medical wristbands

“ Since we launched the devices Epilepsy Action has been enthusiastic about their potential to help many of the hundreds of thousands of people who live with the condition. Chris Ford pride for all associated with Tap2Tag.” In an emergency, for example when someone collapses, after calling the

emergency services any passer-by with an NFC-enabled mobile phone can just tap the patient’s device and, within a couple of clicks, gain instant access to medical information the wearer has chosen to disclose. That could be medical conditions or even a note such as: “I have a heart condition. Spray is in my bag. Spray once in my mouth then wait for paramedics.” Chris came up with the idea after his nephew was diagnosed with a potentially fatal allergy. He had the number of a charity helpline tattooed on his arm in case of emergency – but the number changed. That’s when Chris decided there should be a better way.

‘Being a finalist was so good for our profile’ THE winners of a national entrepreneurs award is encouraging others to enter this year. Bristol-based Turtle Tots, run by Caroline Sparks and Gabrielle Lixton, won the Mumpreneur of the Year title at the Startups Awards. Caroline said: “We’ve certainly found that being a finalist and being a winner is great for our business. “The awards are a great way of raising your profile and there are lots of spin-offs where people find you as a result.” To find out more about the awards or to enter, simply visit www.startupsawards.co.uk before Friday, September 12.

Hospitality

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Owners call time on their pubs struggling in suburban locations THE recovering property market could be putting suburban pubs in peril, according to one expert. While the hospitality sector as a whole has seen things improve this year, it hasn’t been enough to save some of Bristol’s landmark pubs. Colliers International hotels specialist Peter Brunt, pictured, said while the upturn was evident in some of the more rural locations suburban pubs were still being hit hard. That could be because there are more pubs closer together in suburban spots, fighting for the same

market, compared to little competition in villages. Peter said the growth in the economy had encouraged many owners to take the opportunity to get on with plans that some had shelved over the last few years, including converting to alternative uses. A planning application was recently submitted to turn the Air Balloon Tavern in St George into nine flats. Peter, hotels director at Colliers’s Broad Quay office, said: “The Air Balloon Tavern is not the only pub where an alternative use has been

● The Chequers in Kingswood is scheduled to become a new Tesco; the Lord Rodney has become a Co-op considered or attempted, especially given the chronic shortage of new housing across the West. “These well-known pubs are stepping stones on the main roads out of Bristol and have served generations of drinkers. But a combination of the recession, people preferring to drink at home and even lingering resentment at the smoking ban have hit some businesses for six.” Several pubs have also become convenience stores. The Bell in Bell Hill

Road, Kingswood, was turned into a Tesco, the Lord Rodney, also in Bell Hill Road, became a Co-op and the Chequers pub in Lodge Road, Kingswood, is scheduled to become a new Tesco, despite a campaign to save it. Real ale campaigners CAMRA say pub closures are running at a rate of 31 per week across the UK. Peter said: “Many suburban pubs even on main routes such as the A420 have continued to struggle while inner city and country pubs have

rebounded strongly. “But demand is returning and I believe there are plenty of buyers out there ready to have a crack at the right pub in the right place. Pubs beside water and with good gardens have done particularly well through the summer months. “My take is that owners are seeing that we can sell property and have now decided to take the plunge after years of putting up with quieter market conditions..”

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Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Recruitment

Technology

Students seeking to fill gap in the market

Software tester TVS logs in to Far East

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

GROUP of students in Bristol are trying to shake up the recruitment market by targeting an area they feel has been neglected – people like

them. Chris Dalley, 23, William Duddell, 22, and Denis Sellu, 21, are all students at UWE Bristol. Chris and Denis study robotics and William is taking a real estate valuation management degree. But while studying, they have made the time to launch their own business, called Missionly. While most recruitment platforms target graduates, the trio felt there was little help for students looking for relevant opportunities while still studying, such as part-time jobs, freelance work, volunteering and inter nships. And if students find the service useful, it’s a natural next step for them and businesses to use the platform to match people for graduate roles in future. Will said: “We are striving to give businesses the opportunity to source talented students without costing them an arm and leg. “Our platform gives employers the tools to make hiring decisions that only they know best as opposed to allowing recruitment agencies to make poorly informed and expensive recommendations.” The firm, which is based at the Engine Shed and went through the WebStart Bristol incubator programme, already has 50 businesses signed up. It hopes this will grow quickly after its official launch. One business that has already used the platform is UWE-based robotics

● A TESTING company which started in Bristol’s SETsquared business incubator has opened an office in Singapore and has started working in China and South Korea. TVS, a leader in the software testing and hardware verification fields, has been growing at a rapid rate and now employs more than 120 people around the world. But it retains its HQ at the Engine Shed in Bristol’s Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone. Despite outgrowing the incubator it joined in 2008, TVS has become an alumni member and the biggest firm in the SETsquared family. Chief executive Dr Mike Bartley, pictured, praised the support the organisation had given his firm to date. He said: “As a technical specialist I needed guidance on how to grow a business and SETsquared effectively provided this. TVS is very pleased with its on-going relationship with SETsquared.” During the past year the firm has expanded its operations and plans to continue its expansion with offices in China and the US during the second half of 2014. In addition, TVS has expanded its services into security testing and compliance with safety standards, which it expects should bring significant new business.

● The Missionly founders at the Engine Shed, from top Denis Sellu, Chris Dalley, and William Duddell

Construction

Homes build begins

“ We are striving to give businesses the opportunity to source talented students without costing them an arm and leg Will Duddell

start-up Agilic. Founder Harry Gee said: “I recruited a student using Missionly to manage my companies marketing endeavours and I found it to be an exceptional experience. “John, the student I recruited, has now progressed to become a vital part of my team as we look to grow throughout the UK.”

So far the team has focused locally, signing up students from UWE, Bristol, Bath and Bath Spa universities but the model has the potential to roll out much more widely. The team was awarded the UWE Entrepreneurs of the Year award for 2014 and is looking for investment in order to take them to grow the business further.

● WORK has begun on 129 new homes near Emersons Green. Builder Barratt Homes says around 260 people will be involved in the construction and sales of the homes on the Lyde Green development, most being local sub-contractors and tradesmen. Sales director Andrea Pilgrim said: “This translates into a significant boost for local retailers at a time when concerns remain about the national financial picture,” she said. “It's exactly what this area needs.” Barratt is one of several developers on the site.

Food and drink

Another helping of BYO restaurant “ Diners revelled in the fact that at Melbournes you could bring your own wine without a corkage charge.” Tony Wilshaw cessful concept but I feel now is the right time. “Diners revelled in the fact that at Melbournes you could bring your own wine without a corkage charge, and we will be reviving this BYO policy.” He said the bar area will be relaxed

offering pizza and a grill menu, with main meal prices starting at £6.50. The bring-your-own wine policy operates alongside fixed price menus, and Tony said there were no “hidden extras” with starters accompanied by bread and all mains accompanied by potatoes and vegetables. A new pizza kitchen has been installed at the premises, formerly the Anchor and Mezze restaurant, and the restaurant will offer a takeaway service too. The Mezze brand is run by Tony’s nephew and is one of the ways he has kept his hand in since the sale of Melbournes BYO. The other is his own restaurant Delmonico, in Gloucester Road.

● Leigh Iles and Tony Wilshaw at Melbournes BYO in Ham Green

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A RESTAURANT that was credited with making the bring-your-own wine concept popular in Bristol in the 1990s is being revived. Melbournes BYO had a loyal following in Park Street where it was based for 15 years. Tony Wilshaw sold the business in the late 1990s but is reviving the brand, although a touch further from the inner city hubbub in Ham Green. He said: “Quality seasonal food, a sensibly priced two and three course menu, along with a policy of bring-your-own wine, was the recipe on which Melbournes built its success. “I suppose 15 years is a long time to wait before returning with a suc-

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Wednesday, August 27, 2014

The Business Pulse

FIRMS LACK EXPORTING KNOW-HOW Earlier this year the Bristol Post and accountancy and advisory firm BDO teamed up to carry out a survey of SMEs in the Bristol area. In our third report on the results, we look at how businesses feel about exports.

ANY businesses in the Bristol area are exporting successfully, but those which aren’t want more help if they are to break into overseas markets. That was the findings from the third and final Business Pulse special report from the first survey, published today by accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP in partnership with the Bristol Post. Business leaders from the city and surrounding areas took part in the exclusive survey and gave their views on the topic of exporting and the journeys taken to tap into foreign markets. Exporting has been highlighted by business experts and the Government as a key driver to economic recovery and for building on Bristol’s position as a leading hub for commerce and business, not just in the UK, but across Europe and beyond. The recently released Great British Export Report from FedEx reports that SMEs based in the South West and London are the most likely to export overseas. However, it also highlights that there is still a lack of awareness; not only of the benefits to exporting but also of the resources available. The Business Pulse survey asked a number of key questions around the topic of international trade and looked at what can be done to improve the current situation. When asked whether they currently trade overseas, the interviewees were split roughly down the middle. Half are already engaged in the global import and export market and just under 10 per cent trade solely in Europe. The remaining 40 per cent are not involved in international trade in any capacity. When it came to specific markets, the results were split across a wide range of nations right across the globe. No major trading partner stood out but highlighted that South West firms are prepared to travel across the globe for the correct opportunity. Despite ongoing instability in the eurozone, western Europe was identified as the most popular destination for international trading by firms in

“ The topic of exporting has produced some interesting results in our survey. It is clear that the issues surrounding international trade are complex but some key points have emerged. Graham Randall, partner and head of BDO in Bristol the region, which has been supported by the close transport links and the EU. In total 28 per cent revealed they trade in Europe on a regular basis. The two other regions of the world to stand out were North America and South East Asia, followed closely by South America. Businesses not trading overseas were asked to relay the primary reason for not being involved in foreign markets. The majority (38 per cent) said they still had to reach their full potential in the domestic market before looking further afield. When it came to help and support for firms looking to pick up more business overseas, financing was highlighted as a key issue and the cost of developing customers in new countries has put some businesses off from moving into new markets. The other two key factors were issues surrounding the distribution of goods and the lack of hands-on assistance from organisations and Gov-

‘Critical for growth of local market’

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Colin Skellett, Chairman, West of England LEP: “Exporting is critical for the growth of the local market. It directly improves a business’s competitiveness, which has an indirect but significant impact on a region’s economy. The LEP, through Invest Bristol & Bath in partnership with the four local councils, works closely with UKTI to support export promotion from the region. “The service, to support

exporting, is really well honed and supports the inward investment work we are also doing. So whilst UKTI provides the direct support and grants to businesses looking to export, Invest Bristol & Bath has been working hard to open up new markets for local companies to exploit, such as the Middle East, China and across Europe. “From the survey it is clear there is more that we and UKTI need to do to make the support for exporting more visible.”

ernment agencies. Establishing and building a business overseas can be very challenging with 20 per cent of respondents citing the need for additional support in establishing new contacts overseas. A further 15 per cent called for greater help in identifying their markets with increased access to tailored advice and support. There is a perception that Bristol is lacking the international credibility in comparison to other regional cities around the UK. It’s felt that the odds are firmly stacked in favour of the South East, which has the benefit of international airports and transport links. Graham Randall, partner and head of BDO in Bristol, said: “The topic of exporting has produced some interesting results in our survey. It is clear

that the issues surrounding international trade are complex but some key points have emerged. “Most important is the fact that businesses have the drive to expand overseas, however the problem still lies in understanding how. There is a feeling that more help and support is needed and businesses are calling for the backing of the Government not only in practical terms but also when it comes to understanding cultural and regulatory differences and establishing new customers. “The private sector also has an important part to play to help businesses prosper in new markets across the world. Working with the right advisers that have the experience and expertise to help map out your international journey is crucial. “It is vital for Bristol and the sur-

rounding area that local businesses become even more engaged with our international trading partners if we are to establish ourselves as a major economic powerhouse.”

● The second Business Pulse survey is asking businesses for their views on sustainability, the role of the mid market in the economic recovery and the importance of apprenticeships in business strategy. If you would like to take part visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/ BusinesPulse2 or contact Isabel Duckworth via isabel.duckworth@bdo.co.uk.

‘We must get behind ambitious businesses’ James Durie, Executive Director of Bristol Chamber at Business West: “More businesses need to gain the confidence to explore and expand into overseas markets. We really must get behind ambitious businesses in the region if we are to stand a chance of achieving the Prime Minister’s target of increasing exports to £1 trillion by 2020. This is exactly what our #GetExporting campaign has been designed to do. “SMEs often cite lack of

support as a barrier to getting in to export and our job at Business West is to make sure that businesses of all shapes and sizes are aware of the support that is available. We have a vast network of business advisers, coaches and mentors who provide a wide range of strategic and tactical export support. “We are pushing the message that if your products and services are selling successfully in this country, then it’s likely that they will also be a success overseas.”

Tell us your views on sustainability, the role of the Tell us your views mid-market in theon economic sustainability, theimportance role of the of recovery and the mid-market in theScan economic apprenticeships. the QR recovery andusing the importance code below the scannerofon apprenticeships. the QR your smartphoneScan or visit code below using the scanner on http://tinyurl.com/bristolpulseqr your smartphone or visit http://tinyurl.com/bristolpulseqr

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Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Frozen yoghurt makers quick to make move in foreign markets Gavin Thompson Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

OME businesses don’t export because they want to squeeze every last drop from their home market before entering into new and uncharted territories. But it doesn’t have to be that way, as AngelBerry proves. The frozen yoghurt retailer has just three UK stores – two in Bristol where it was founded and one in Brighton. But its first store in the UAE opens soon, to be followed by one in South Africa. It is also in early talks with partners in India and has signed a franchise deal for 80 stores across the Gulf States. James Taylor, who co-founded the company with Ryan Pasco, says there was an element of chance in this expansive approach early on. “Someone wanted to open a franchise in Mauritius,” he said. “We said we wanted to franchise from day one so we were ready. We had thought that would be in the UK but we didn’t want to turn down the opportunity.” Once they started on the international route, there’s been no stopping James and Ryan, who are both 23. They launched the business in the middle of winter at Imperial Retail Park, Hartcliffe, and perhaps that gave them the early insight that their products would do even better in better weather. James said: “In the UK we have poor winters but in the hotter countries the winter is not like ours so after Mauritius we thought we would pivot the business towards that.” They went to a trade show in

#GetExporting ● Business West is campaigning to increase the number of exporters in the region. Under the banner #GetExporting, the goal is help 2,020 companies to grow their business through exports by 2020. Business West and UKTI can offer a range of support for firms looking to export. Find out more online at www.businesswest.co.uk.

Dubai where they pitched to potential franchisees and secured a major deal with TriStar Corporation which plans to open 80 franchises across the region. That led to the decision to scale up the operation. They perfected their recipe and found a factory in Italy that could make enough frozen yoghurt to order to meet their ambitions. That is shipped to Bristol where it is stored at the firm’s Hartcliffe warehouse before being shipped around the world. James was full of praise for the help the company has had from UK Trade and Investment, which he said had helped with market research and making contacts. “That was the big benefit,” said James. “A bit of support but mainly the contacts. We’re talking to a company in India now which they put us in touch with.” In the near future the growth looks set to continue, including some new UK outlets. But there’s no chance of AngelBerry going cool about the potential of overseas markets anytime soon.

more fruitful relationships with the BRIC countries and to keep the UK economy growing we must exploit more export opportunities. So why focus on these four new markets? The MINT countries have a few key themes in common; young populations, useful geographic placement, and (Turkey excepted) being commodity producers. These characteristics echo those that made their BRIC predecessors so successful and for this reason it’s important that British businesses are quick off the mark to ensure that they’re strategically positioned to get an equal piece of the pie this time around. Let’s take a closer look at each of the MINT markets and what makes them so special.

Catherine Stephens, international trade services manager at Business West, shares her top tips for getting paid for your exports. She says: “Selling internationally is very complex but – as with most things – the process can be made much easier when you get help, especially when it comes to getting paid. During my 15 years working with exporters we have noticed a real upward trend in the use of our Letter of Credit service, as exporters are looking for the added security it can give them.”

● 2. Understand the conditional nature of the Letter of Credit The letter provides considerable security for the exporter and is often used to ensure contractual provisions are met. However payment will not be made unless the terms of credit are met precisely, so you should ensure that all terms and conditions are complied with. ● 3. Select the appropriate type There are a number of different types of Letter of Credit including Confirmed Irrevocable Letter of Credit, Irrevocable Letter of Credit, Transferable Letter of Credit, Back to Back Letter of Credit, Standby Letter of Credit. It is vitally important that you select the right type for your export activity.

● AngelBerry founders James Taylor (left) and Ryan Pasco

● Mexico Has the distinct advantage of being neighbours with both the US and Latin America. With an average age of 27, it boasts a rapidly growing young population from which we are already seeing a large rise in domestic consumption, with a clear appetite for British products and services. ● Indonesia With a population of over 251 million, Indonesia has a growing, and affluent, middle class, which is estimated to be at least 35 million strong. This young population is earning more money each year and figures show that these individuals aren’t afraid to spend their new found wealth.

● Nigeria Nigeria could soon overtaje South Africa as the biggest economy in Africa. With a population of over 160 million people, Nigeria is an increasingly important market for British companies and the UK is already one of the largest investors. ● Turkey If Turkey can sort out its political problems the country could become one of the fastest growing European economies. Nearly half of its 80 million population is under the age of 25, and Turkey is positioned sweetly between Europe and Asia with the potential to act as a gateway to the Middle East.

#GetExporting #GetExporting #GetExporting #GetExporting

www.exportbritain.org.uk

● 4. Use meticulous care 75 per cent of exporters who do their own documentation get it wrong first time, which can lead to additional costs and unexpected delays in payment. Preparation of documentation required for a Letter of Credit takes time and requires a high level of attention to detail. Gaining knowledge of both the shipping world and banking industry can also be advantageous. ● 5. Access expert guidance The cost to UK business through presenting non compliant documentation to banks is estimated to run into hundreds of millions of pounds per year, therefore it pays to access expert advice when it comes to using a Letter of Credit. Business West can offer expert guidance and assistance with selecting and preparing the correct Letter of Credit. This bespoke service has a higher first time approval rate with the banks and can save time, money and help to avoid bad debts. Find out more: www. business west.co.uk/letters-of-credit.

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www.businesswest.co.uk www.businesswest.co.uk www.businesswest.co.uk

Making sure you get paid for your exports

● 1. Use a Letter of Credit A Letter of Credit is an official document used by thousands of businesses across the UK to guarantee payment for exporting their products or services. The Letter of Credit is issued by a bank and contains strict terms specifying, amongst other things, what documentation is required, the amount of money to be paid and within what time frame.

Get a taste for exporting to the MINT countries BUSINESS taking up the export challenge will no doubt have heard about the BRIC markets – Brazil, Russia, India and China – and how these powerhouse economies hold the key to a profitable future. The economist Jim O’Neill, responsible for introducing the term BRIC back in 2001, has been at it again and has a new term for all to learn – the MINT countries. Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey (MINT) are the new kids on the block and considered by many, including Mr O’Neill, as the emerging economic giants. It’s true to say that over the past decade British companies have fallen behind their European and global counterparts when it comes to trade and investment. Many nations are enjoying far

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

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

Special report: Immigration

WHY BUSINESSES STILL NEED TO The rise of UKIP has marked a seemingly growing tide against immigration, but businesses often need skills from overseas, particularly when there is a skills gap in the UK. Gavin Thompson looks further into the immigration debate

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WO contradictory stories have been emerging through 2014. First, a sense of anger and opposition to immigration among some has gained greater political traction. UKIP topping the Euro election polls put all the parties on notice over the issue. The taboo has been broken and immigration – or opposition to it – is on the agenda. At the same time, there are skills shortages across a host of sectors. It has been widely reported that the construction sector, suddenly booming as the economy recovers, lacks the people it needs to do the work required. The shortage goes much further and is not all about catching up after lay-offs in the recession. Technology is moving quickly, faster than education can keep pace. And with an aging population some sectors face large numbers of retirements in the coming years. Bristol is not immune from this. The skills gap in the aerospace sector, so important to Bristol’s economy, is such a concern that both the national Aerospace Growth Programme and the local West of England Aerospace Forum have set up working groups to try and address the problem. The Government plans to create a National Aerospace College, which could be in this region, to get more people coming into the sector. But all that takes time. Even Bristol’s creative sector is having to go abroad to fill posts as companies struggle to recruit enough people to meet fast-growing demand for its services. Robert Bolton, Bristol-based partner in KPMG’s global HR centre of excellence, says the problem is significant. “There’s an enormous proportion of people in some sectors who are retiring in the next five years,” he said. “Some companies face up to 30 or 40 per cent of their workforce retiring. “They’ve got to bridge the skills shortage and immigration is a way to do that.” Another area is energy. The UK plans to create a new generation of nuclear power stations, including two in the South West at Hinkley in Somerset and Oldbury in South Gloucestershire. But we don’t have enough expertise. Foreign partners such as French firm EDF and Japanese company Hitachi are leading these projects. Robert said in the past the UK nuclear sector had relied on recruiting people leaving the Royal Navy who had experience in the Trident programme. “The industry is going to need significant numbers of nuclear trained engineers,” he said. “We can’t simply rely on people from the Royal Navy because it’s not enough. He added: “In telecommunications as broadband becomes more and

more widespread, a lot of network engineers are coming to retirement but we need people to lay the cables and manage the network software that drives them. There are people in China with these skills so we are starting to see a need for people to come from there to here. “Hotel, tourism, leisure and restaurant businesses don’t seem to be able to function without people from overseas. “The health service certainly couldn’t function.” Robert concedes some of these problems are self-inflicted. “Some of these shortages you can see coming five or 10 years out but the discipline of strategic workforce planning to match supply with demand for skills has been lost in many

“ There’s an enormous proportion of people in some sectors who are retiring in the next five years. Some companies face up to 30 or 40 per cent of their workforce retiring. They’ve got to bridge the skills shortage and immigration is a way to do that. Robert Bolton, Bristol-based partner in KPMG’s global HR centre of excellence

HR departments,” he said. “Then there was no recruitment in recession. “Industries are going to have to think more longer term.” But even if industry does, that doesn’t help now. And there will always be skills gaps to fill and hiring talent from overseas is a way to do try to do that more quickly. The market, and the competition, won’t wait and if Bristol – or British – firms can’t meet demand the contracts will go elsewhere. Robert said: “If they don’t fill those skills needs, businesses struggle to compete. “It’s all about competitive advantage in the marketplace. Revenues will be constrained which means ability to grow is constrained which means ability to innovate. “You have either got to create a virtuous cycle or a downward spiral. Inability to fill these jobs can lead to a downward spiral.” And that means fewer jobs all round. But immigration, from outside the EU at least, is constrained. Companies have to apply to sponsor skilled

● The team at retail support services business eXPD8, which benefits from employing workers from diverse migrant workers and there are quotas. Annually, the UK will admit 20,700 so-called tier two skilled workers. These are degree-level jobs such as engineers. So if a company wants to hire someone there are only 1,725 spaces in any given month across the UK. Judith Hockin, specialist immigration lawyer from Bristol-based law firm VWV, said: “There is no certainty even if you meet the requirements.” She said some employers simply give up because they are put off by the paperwork and hoops they have to go through, although she says she is yet to have an application rejected. Judith believes the system works okay for degree-level skilled workers and says the local Home Office staff

are helpful and supportive. But demand is growing. “We are certainly getting more employers looking for sponsor licences,” said Judith, which will put more pressure on the systems and may start to test the restrictions. She believes the bigger problems are above and below that level. “For highly skilled, or tier one, workers it’s even harder,” she said. “A dentist, for example, has to come in as an entrepreneur or an investor.” The former category requires him or her to bring £50,000 with them, the latter considerably more. Judith said: “We are in danger of losing these people to the United States or Australia.” And for skilled jobs below degree

level, it’s pretty much tough luck outside the EU. Judith said: “We used to have lots of Filipino care workers because culturally they are very good with elderly people. That doesn’t happen any more because those jobs are not of degree level.” This has hit the hospitality industry too, particularly with regards to trained chefs in smaller restaurants. So while the anti-immigration bandwagon gathers pace, there is a growing problem in important sectors of the economy. Some businesses are reluctant to speak out on immigration, preferring to keep their heads down. But more may have to join the debate or soon they may pay the price on the bottom line.

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

BRING IN FOREIGN WORKERS CASE STUDY: eXPD8

‘Without foreign nationals, we could struggle to find right people’ ● RETAIL support services business eXPD8 sees the benefits of employing workers from diverse backgrounds, and often that includes foreign nationals. Without them, director Mark Thurgood says the company could struggle to find the right people. “I think we would be able to get bodies but we might struggle to get the right people in the right locations,” said Mark. The Orchard Street-based firm employs 2,500 people across the UK, who go into stores such as the McColl’s chain and help them with their displays. It also works with brands and distributors to make sure shops are correctly displaying their goods, for example over The Lego Movie DVD launch. Mark said about 2.5 per cent of its UK workforce was made up of foreign nationals. In Ireland that rises to 11 per cent. Many of those are EU workers so not restricted but other come from countries including Brazil, Australia and India. They generally already have the right to work in the

UK, so the company does not need to sponsor them as it would if they were coming from overseas for the job. The firm doesn’t target them for recruitment but often finds foreign nationals are more keen on the flexible working conditions in his industry. “The type of work we offer is part-time flexible work and an awful lot of foreign nationals find that works for them as individuals,” said Mark. “Many of them have a number of different jobs and employers and our work is relatively flexible from a time of day perspective. “We need people who are in a very localised area so they don’t have to travel. We look for people who understand their community.” And sometimes they happen to be foreign nationals, particularly in areas with a large immigrant population. Mark said: “We are recruiting 600 additional people for Christmas – which for us starts in September – and I suspect the majority will end up being non-British nationals.”

Part of the Local World group

backgrounds including foreign nationals

“ For highly skilled, or tier one, workers it’s even harder ... A dentist, for example, has to come in as an entrepreneur or an investor. We are in danger of losing these people to the United States or Australia.

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Judith Hockin, specialist immigration lawyer from Bristol-based law firm VWV

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Ask the expert Jenny Roberts Kids’ fitting expert Brantano

A fitting solution for children AS the kids are getting kitted out to go back to school, Jenni Roberts, Brantano kids fitting expert, answers some of those common questions about getting your children’s shoes fitted: Q: Why do I need to get my children’s shoes fitted? “Growing feet need room to grow, and children’s feet grow in variable bursts so being vigilant and awareness are key. It is recommended that children get their feet measured by a trained fitter every 3-4 months once they begin school. “Even if they haven’t outgrown them, shoes should be replaced if they are worn out. If children aren’t wearing correctly fitted shoes, it can create both short and long term foot health issues. “At Brantano, stores are open until late and friendly staff are on hand to help, making it easy and convenient to pop in and check your children’s feet. ”

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Institute of Directors in Bristol networking event

Radisson Blu in Broad Quay

’A chance to share ideas and problems - or just meet others’

T may be the depths of summer but the world of business doesn’t stop and members of the Institute of Directors in Bristol took the chance to meet at the organisation’s regular networking event. Wednesday @6 takes place at the Radisson Blu in Broad Quay every other week, unsurprisingly on Wednesdays from 6pm. The event offers members a chance to share ideas, problems and just meet other people in a similar role. Branch chairman Rebecca Tregarthen said: “We always enjoy our regular meet-ups and it’s great to see people turning out even in the quieter summer period. “We welcome new people along as guests, the only rule is that it’s networking, not selling!” The next event is on September 3. It is free to attend but guests are asked to register first by calling 0117 3707785 or emailing iod.southwest@iod.com.

● David Pinchard of the Institute of Directors and Jo Haywood of Skylark Photographs: Michael Lloyd BRML2014 0820D-001_C

Q: Should I buy shoes that my child will grow into? “Its best not to buy shoes that are more than one size too large for your child in the hope they will grow into them. “Shoes that are too big could cause a child to develop foot problems and/or develop inherited foot problems. “It is also advisable not to hand down shoes from siblings or friends as the shoe will have shaped themselves to someone else’s foot.” Q: What could happen if my child wears poorly fitted shoes? “In the short term conditions such as redness and soreness, bunching up of the toes and ingrowing nails if the shoes are overly tight. “In the longer term developmental foot problems can be made worse by ill-fitting shoes and bunions and foot deformities such as hammer toe can be caused by poorly fitted shoes. “Unsupportive and sloppy styles of shoe can lead to a similar gait (style of walking). “In addition, there are also longer term health implications from poorly fitted shoes such as back pain, knee problems & pain and posture problems.”

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Brantano has stores at Avonmead Retail Park, Abbey Wood Retail Park, Emersons Green District Centre and the Brooks Centre, Bradley Stoke, and offers a free expert fitting service with no obligation to buy. For more information or to buy online visit www.brantano.co.uk

● IOD Chair Rebecca Tregarthen and Caroline Gourlay, Business Psychologist BRML2014 0820D-005_C

Networking lunch A SECONDARY school is showing its pupils the importance of networking. Staff at Castle School in Thornbury know most jobs are never advertised and then who you know can be more important than what you know when it comes to finding the right job. So the school organised a networking lunch for its Year 12 students, with 40 businesses and 57 students attending. Firms taking part ranged from engineering companies Airbus and Renishaw to the financial services sector. Lou Davies, head of sixth form, said: “Before the networking lunch began, many students were really nervous, wondering what they possibly had to say. “It was a real pleasure to see them gradually relax and begin to enjoy the event, listening to the businesses, picking up tips and learning to describe their own personal qualities, skills and career ambitions. “In the end, the lunch over-ran because everyone was enjoying it so much.

● Gary Chatwin and Nick Sturge

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Castle School in Thornbury “It's all well and good discussing careers and life-skills in a classroom, but it's when you translate this into an engaging, challenging and realistic event that our students make huge strides. “We are incredibly fortunate to be so well-supported by local businesses, helping us provide our Sixth Formers with as many opportunities to learn about the world of work as possible.” The event was well received on both sides. Student Henry Thomas said: “It has shown me that the importance of contacts cannot be understated, and that social skills are one of the most important aspects of employment.” While Anne Holloway of Iron Acton-based IT firm Innovecom, said: “To meet so many bright articulate and enthusiastic youngsters has very much made me want to work more with the school.” Tim Pearce of Castle Estate Agents and Georgia Honey, a year 13 leaver, give short speeches sharing their experiences of networking .

● Networking at the event at Castle School in Thornbury

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Business diary Ladies That UX: Launch of new chapter of group which supports women in the male-dominated user experience sector. First free event at The Cosy Club, on Baldwin Street, Bristol, on Thursday, August 28, from 6:30-9pm. Register at Meetup.com. Wednesday@6: Institute of Directors informal networking at the Radisson Blu Hotel 6-8pm, Wednesday, September 3. Non members welcome. Free but to register call 0117 3707785 or email iod.southwest@iod.com. ● David Rayfield, William Shier of Tidal programming Ltd, and author AA Abbott BRML2014 0820D-004_C

Set.Social: Networking for the creative industries held on the first Wednesday of every month to facilitate collaborative working amongst like-minded creative professionals, many of whom work from home as freelancers. At The Set, Bath Road Studios, from 6pm, Wednesday, September 3. Networking with Freelance Mum: A networking walk then talk for parents in business who want to bring their children. The event is aimed at those working parents, often freelance, who find themselves isolated. The next event is September 5, departing from St Andrew’s Park, North Bristol, at 10.30am. Find out more at www.freelancemum.co.uk. Access to Growth Capital: The London Stock Exchange and Capita Asset Services are organising this event to help fast-growing SMEs understand how they can get money to grow. From 2.30-6pm on September 9 at Burges Salmon offices, 1 Glass Wharf. Register at http:///www.lseg.com/register1000. Institute of Directors Bristol branch Autumn Special At the University of Bristol Botanic Gardens with Martin Bigg from the Bristol Green Capital, Tuesday, September 9. Check www.iod.com/swestevents for more information and to book.

● Karen Brasier of Cabot Training and Glen Maxwell-Heron of BRML20140820D-007_C St Andrews Consulting Ltd

● Ben Leighton, Niall Jones and Alistair Watson

Chartered Institute of Management Accountants lunch

Brasserie Blanc

Triodos annual meeting: A chance for customers, investors and anyone who’s interested in a more progressive approach to banking to find out more about the bank. Saturday, September 13 at Brunel’s Old Station, The Passenger Shed, Temple Meads, 10am to 4pm.

GALLERIES GALORE

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

Wilshire, now at Connect Education & Care in Trowbridge, Daniel Merifield, now working at EDF in Gloucester and Zoe Burgess who is now at Devon NHS Partnership Trust. To become a Chartered Management Accountant, students need to complete 10 professional qualification exams across four years requiring personal study and dedication. This is complemented by three year's experience which can be gained whilst studying.

The Bristol Business Exhibition: The exhibition attracts business owners and decision makers from across the region and is a great way to source suppliers and generate new business. It takes place at Ashton Gate Conference Centre from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday, September 30.

● The winners at the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants lunch

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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FOUR finance students in the South West have been honoured for their success by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), the professional body of management accountants, at a celebratory lunch at Brasserie Blanc. The lunch was a chance for the prize winning students and their employers to celebrate their success. The quartet, who all came in the top five in the UK in their CIMA professional exams last year were invited, along with their employers, to a lunch hosted by CIMA South West area chairman David Johnson, ACMA, CGMA. Friederike Frizen who is now a business development manager at Rolls Royce in Patchway, said “The commendation of being top three in the world is an outstanding result and it was gratifying to receive this distinction on my final assessment. “CIMA has been a great accelerator to my career as it is highly regarded across the industry.” The other three were Simon

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Seasonal Facebook Campaigns: Strategies for Success: The latest talk from the Bristol and Bath Marketing Network features a talk from Digital Visitor chief executive Antony Rawlins at the Clifton Club from 5.30-8pm on Tuesday, September 9. Book via eventbrite.

www.bristolpost.co.uk/business

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

The back page

Your digest of the week in business

People ● COLLINSON Tiles’ newest recruit is something of a familiar face to the business. Suzi Hambly is the St Philip’s firm’s new commercial manager, where she’ll be working alongside her mum and dad. Suzi is getting to grips playing a part in running the company she grew up with and heard her parents discussing over the dinner table, when she was a child. “It has actually been a bit scary how many people have told me they remember me as a kid coming into work with mum and dad over 30 years ago.” said Suzi. “My siblings and I would have to amuse ourselves when mum and dad were busy roller skating around the tile warehouse and having races on the office chairs!” The firm was established in 1908 and now has showrooms across the South West. Suzi is on a 12-month induction after joining the family business, which has included some new experiences. “I am also more used to an office environment and now I need to be involved in the warehouse, driving the forklift and lifting boxes of tiles around,” she said. “I can however bring some different ideas from outside of the company, a background in the marketing and web space plus some renewed passion and enthusiasm after what has been a tough few years in the industry.” ● Eggnogg founder Kate Edmunds has been named a winner of former Dragon and Ryman’s stationery boss Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday awards. Eggnogg designs creative gifts, party supplies and quirky colour-in products such as its child’s colour-in PE kit bag. The Clifton-based firm was also a finalist in the flexible business category of in the national Mums And Working Awards. Kate said: “I have enjoyed every minute of the journey so far and

team, a specialist property team, and a newly-formed manufacturing team. Gary Himsworth has also taken up a new position as senior manager in Bristol. David said: “It is important to have a strong frontline presence, and by building on what is already recognised as a very stable and experienced team, I have every confidence that at Lloyds Bank we will continue to support the aims and ambitions of our existing and prospective clients.”

Deals

● Suzi Hambly, left, and working in the Collinson Tiles warehouse whilst juggling business with parenting has been hard-work at times, it has enabled me to create a work-life balance that I desired, and through our new employment scheme, we hope to do the same for others.” ● Charlie Stockford, managing director of sustainability consultancy SustainIt, has earned a place on a scholarship programme in the US, which she hopes will help her crack the lucrative market. A UKTI programme offers UK companies the chance to attend the ‘Fundamentals for Success in the US Market’ executive business programme at the Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management near Chicago. The five-day course focuses on the key issues and actions UK companies must consider to enhance their presence in the US. Charlie, left, said: “With the US corporate social responsibility and sustainability market lagging around five years behind Europe, sharing our 10-year experience and best practice should help US businesses to move faster and not make the same mistakes.

● Brandon Hill Communications is to stage the two-day UK Space Conference 2015 “It is a huge market and a huge challenge, which is also very appealing as an entrepreneur.” ● Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking has restructured its SME team, with David Beaumont the new SME area director for South West England supported by a team of senior managers. Previously area director of Devon and Cornwall, David is now also responsible for Bristol and Somerset. His senior managers work closely with relationship managers across the South West, with two teams specialising in the support of agricultural clients, a healthcare

● Brandon Hill Communications is shooting for the stars after being appointed to deliver the UK Space Conference 2015. The UK’s leading space conference, this two-day event is held every second year and concentrates on how the UK can make a global impact in a market that it is estimated could be worth £40 billion to the national economy by 2030. Luke Brown, managing director for Brandon Hill’s events division said: “We are very excited to be appointed as the delivery partner for this crucial event. We look forward to working closely with the event’s organising committee to build a powerful showcase for one of the most exciting areas for academic research and high growth opportunities for the UK economy.” The venue for the conference is still to be announced. ● A Bristol-based company set up to get capital to smaller and medium sized businesses has been dishing out its cash. The Business Growth Fund, based in Victoria Street, has invested £3.6 million in Gloucester-based Ecovision. The firm installs heat pump, solar panels, biomass and gas boilers in thousands of homes, businesses and community buildings across the UK. BGF’s investment director Ned Dorbin said: “Our capital, together with a debt facility from Shawbrook, will immediately be invested in the increased marketing of Ecovision’s Hassle Free Boiler offering so that it gains increased momentum and traction in the market.” Bristol-based lawyers support the deal with Osborne Clarke advising Ecovision and Burges Salmon advising BGF.

The op-ed column

Initiative helping to transform building sector

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HE traditional view of the construction sector is that of a bastion of male domination and a ‘jobs for the boys’ workplace culture. That legacy is reflected in the fact that women employed in construction make up only 12 per cent of the workforce, and less than one per cent of all manual roles. But the transformation of the gender divide is now under way thanks to initiatives like the Be Fair Framework. Led by CITB, the Framework has been developed by the industry for the industry in partnership with Constructing Equality. Working with 100 companies across Great Britain, Be Fair is an

Roger Stone South West strategy manager Construction Industry Training Board

accreditation for the construction and built environment sector which focuses on Fairness, Inclusion and Respect in the workplace. This is the very first industry-specific equality framework, which encourages businesses to adopt practices to help employers discover the business and commercial benefit of fully harnessing diversity. With confidence in construction growing, the sector needs 182,000

qualified construction workers in the next five years to meet the skills demand. They are the workers needed to build projects such as the Hinkley Point Nuclear Power Station development and additional plans by the Ministry of Defence to develop accommodation for troops returning from Germany. If we are going to tackle the industry’s lingering image problem and change negative cultures, we need to ensure the sector attracts and retains the best and brightest talent regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation and background. We need these workers to stay in construction so we can benefit from their knowledge, experiences and skills.

The framework accreditation has been awarded by CITB to achieving companies, including one in Bristol M D Building Services Ltd in Ashton. This company has become one of the first in the country to be rewarded for its commitment to Fairness Inclusion and Respect in the workforce. The Be Fair framework will help create more inclusive working environments, both in offices and on sites, to ensure that all workers are treated fairly and with respect. Congratulations to M D Building Services which have achieved the Be Fair accreditation. It is at the forefront of the transformation of construction’s public image.

In numbers Inflation (CPI)

1.6 2.5 0.4 0.5 3.99

Inflation (RPI)

Weekly earnings

Base interest rate

% % %

Ave mortgage rate % Corporation tax % Main rate

Small profits rate – below £300,000

Business current accounts

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

Business savings accounts 1.8% Cambridge & Counties Bank £10,000 deposit State Bank of India

1.49% £10,000 deposit

Source:

Petrol prices .06p

129 133 137 68

Unleaded

.46p Diesel

.86p Super unleaded

.32p LPG

Source: PetrolPrices.com