www.twitter.com/torfaenbiz http://linkd.in/1eHoanB
Page 3 - Our previous networking event / New Members Page 4 - Our next event Christmas meeting / Donate to the food bank Page 5 - Torfaen Council – Vehicle advertising / Torfaen Women in Business event Page 6 - Commercial property / Local Investment Fund expands business Page 7 - Iconic Blaenavon film / New member online application form Page 8 - Meet the Member - Hindsight IT & Telecoms Ltd Page 9 - The holiday entitlement debate / Workforce Development Programme Page 10 - Inside Welsh industry / Executive coaching and human resources consultancy Page 11 - TBV membership information and benefits Page 12 - TBV application form
To book, please follow the link below http://bit.ly/TBV-book-online
Can you believe we are approaching the 2014 Christmas event already? What an event it promises to be! For all you fans of the TV series ‘The Call Centre’, we have as our guest Neville Wilshire. For those of you that are not aware of Nev, it is fair to say that he has a unique management style and some unorthodox methods of motivating his staff. You can find more about Nev and his business on page 4. It is good to see that many members have already signed up for the event using the online booking form. Places for the night are rapidly filling up, so you need to act quickly to book your place at this prestigious event and have the chance to see Nev – or me!
Use #TBVevent at our next networking event and we’ll feature your tweets in the next newsletter! On a more serious note, for the past few years we have collected donations for the local food bank at the Christmas event to help those who are less fortunate than ourselves. We’ve always had a fantastic response from our members for this, so please give generously. Take a look at the article on page 4 for more details. Dates for 2015 meetings set so put them in your diary! I look forward to seeing you all on the 4th December.
On the subject of acting quickly any new members have an opportunity to attend the December event for a reduced fee. Follow the link for more details: http://bit.ly/tbv-appform We are steadily increasing our membership at the moment so you will have new people to meet and hopefully do business with in the future. It was great to see a number of new members at the last event, a trend we expect to continue into 2015. For the foodies amongst us we are having a hog–roast, this alone is worth turning up for. I just love a hog-roast; form an orderly queue behind me please! Page 2
All events are held at Greenmeadow Golf & Country Club, Croesyceiliog Cwmbran
Left to Right: Gareth Waters (BrandNuCreative); Andrew Evans (Green & Co); Steve Brice (LP Auto Enrolment); Brian Thomas (True Potential Wealth Management); Robert Gething (Robert Gething Ltd); Zoe Wood (BrandNuCreative); Greg Harrington-Money (Business Edge Coleg Gwent)
Left to Right: Jayne Skyrme (Torfaen Enterprise Facilitator); Nicola Wesson (South Wales Removals); Bernadette Davies (Ideal Weight); Dennis Ricketts (Spectrum Positive); Katie Allen (Katie Allen Communications); Debra Reader (Barclays); Jane Wooton (Green & Co); Claire Thomas (Thomas Safety Services)
Following on from the recent TBV meeting, Steve Brice of LP Auto Enrolment Solutions (LPAES) advised us all that the law on workplace pensions has changed. All employers are required to automatically enrol eligible employees into a pension scheme and make contributions to that scheme. It is important to check when these rules affect your company (your ‘staging date’). At six months from your staging date, LPAES’s experience suggests there are certain tasks you should have completed, these include: • • • • •
Establish your allocated staging date and understand the costs Ensure your payroll system supports auto enrolment Choose your pension scheme provider Check which employees need to be auto enrolled Start to make your employees aware of auto enrolment
As Steve highlighted in his presentation, preparing for auto enrolment as early as possible will pay dividends and simplify implementation. The preparation phase is when you make ALL of the decisions that will shape your Auto Enrolment project; cut corners here or leave things until the last minute and it is likely that you’ll spend two or three times the amount of time (and money!) that would normally be needed to get the project completed.
www.2winconsulting.com www.bw-parkwayhotel.co.uk @katieallencomms www.idealweight.co.uk www.kustomsigns.co.uk www.swmae.co.uk www.dave-powell.com Page 3
Neville Wilshire is the founder and CEO of the Save Britain Money group. A successful and award winning businessman, Nev, as he known to everyone, is now a familiar face to millions of television viewers as the star of the BBC docusoap ‘The Call Centre’. Nev’s path to business success started in his home town of Swansea. In 1984 aged just 25 Nev established Central Heating Services and generated an impressive £100,000 turnover in the first year. Just 4 years later and Nev was a millionaire and enjoying the trappings of success that came with it. However, what Nev couldn’t have foreseen was the deep recession that was about to hit the UK economy. Like countless other businesses the recession of 1989 had an immediate impact on sales. Nev battled for a while to turn things around but increasing levels of debt were saddling the firm and eventually it was forced to close. It was this tough time that taught Nev a lesson he often repeats “keep a handle on your finances and don’t rely on others to provide you with crucial information”.
In the eight years since its formation NES has evolved beyond all recognition. The firm arranged the installation of 250,000 energy efficiency measures in 2012 alone and is an approved Green Deal Assessor Organisation. Nationwide Energy Services is now part of Nev’s group of companies called Save Britain Money. The SBM group provide a range of money saving services to the British public including; energy efficiency surveys, installation of energy saving measures, pension reviews, insurance products, fuel switching and much more. Employing in excess of 700 staff with a further 500 support staff working in the field the group continue to expand to support the aim of helping even more people with their monthly bills.
The loss of his business was a major blow for Nev and it wasn’t until 1996 while on holiday in Florida that Nev received inspiration from an unlikely source. He popped in to watch the Walt Disney story and was surprised to discover that Walt had been made bankrupt twice. Walt’s words that you could not achieve success without first suffering failure made a real impact on Nev who returned home knowing that he had to get back on his feet and build a successful future for himself and his family.
Business accolades have followed including a double win at the Welsh Fast Growth awards 2012 and the 26th fastest growing company in the UK on The Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100 2013. Most recently, and perhaps of greatest pride to Nev, was finishing 2nd best place to work in the UK on The Sunday Times list. This was the first time Save Britain Money had entered this process and the result was a real vindication of Nev’s unique style of management and the vibrant work culture he has created.
Fast forward 9 years and Nev, now armed with extensive experience of using grant schemes to fund home improvements, was ready to set up on his own again. Nationwide Energy Services was established in 2005 and initially employed just 12 people in one room; however, by working with a large number of sub-contractors the firm was able to provide coverage across the whole of South Wales. The company focus was on providing loft and cavity wall insulation to householders at discounted rates.
In January 2012 the BBC came calling and the rest as they say is history. Series one was a huge success for BBC Three with anticipated viewing figures of 400,000 dwarfed by the 4 million that tuned in. With a BBC 1 repeat planned and filming well underway for series 2 Nev may have once being Swansea’s best kept secret but the man with a glide in his stride and a song to sing is now a familiar face across the UK.
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In the spirit of festive giving at the Torfaen Business Voice meeting on 4th December we are going to be collecting food donations to Eastern Valley Food Bank a local food bank that serves Torfaen. We would be grateful if you could bring along a donation of non-perishable food such as tins, dried food, tea & coffee, cereals, etc. A small donation from each of our attendees could make all the difference to less-fortunate people this Christmas. We we astounded by the donations we collected from members in 2013, so please make Christmas 2014 another successful year! Page 4
To book your places please go to http://bit.ly/TBV-book-online
Torfaen council has launched a new initiative to allow local businesses to take advertising space on its refuse and recycling vehicles. For as little as £20 per week, businesses can lease space on the sides of the vehicles which are seen by thousands of residents, pedestrians and motorists every week. Councillor John Cunningham, executive member for neighbourhoods, said: “Our refuse and recycling vehicles are out in the community everyday and visit every street on a weekly basis. They are highly visible throughout many commercial areas and represent an ideal opportunity for businesses to have their adverts seen by thousands of people. “With the public sector facing more severe budget cuts, this is an opportunity for us to raise revenue which can be reinvested in front-line services.”
For more details contact the Business Transformation Team on 01495 766394 or email business.transformation@torfaen.gov.uk
Following on from the success of the 2013 event, Torfaen Economy and Enterprise has teamed up with St David’s Hospice and is planning another. It’s an opportunity to celebrate and recognise the contribution that women make to the Business Community in Torfaen and beyond. Ladies, network in a relaxed atmosphere at The Parkway Hotel, Cwmbran where there will be trade stands, Afternoon Tea, hairdressing, fashion and raffle all for St. David’s Doors open at 5pm for registration and informal networking. To book your place it’s £6.50 per person. (All proceeds are going to St David’s Hospice Care)
Book On-line: http://bit.ly/women-in-biz Or, call and make your payment over the phone to St David’s on: 01633 851051 *Places are strictly limited to 150 so book early! 6ft Trade Stands available and we are requesting a £30.00 donation supporting St David’s Hospice Care. Why not donate a prize to the raffle? Get in touch with fundraising@stdavidshospicecare.org For further information / queries please contact: info@southwalesbusiness.co.uk
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The on-line Property Directory provided by Torfaen Economy & Enterprise has been designed for new and existing businesses to be able to search for available commercial property, development opportunities and to support company expansion or relocation to Torfaen. We advertise a range of competitively priced commercial property including offices, warehousing, retail and industrial premises, either owned by Torfaen County Borough Council or privately through local Estate Agents. In addition to this we have generic incubation facilities at the Springboard Business Innovation Centre ~ Wales, which have been created to provide a dynamic culture designed to support young, fast growing science and technology based businesses. Check out the property directory to view available properties using the search facilities to best match your requirements.
http://bit.ly/torfaen-property
Blaenavon-based water treatment specialist, Water Treatment Products, has created 12 new jobs thanks to funding from the Local Investment Fund (LIF). The company, which formulates and manufactures speciality water treatment chemicals and products for national and international clients, accessed the funding with support from Torfaen council, enabling it to purchase new machinery and drastically cut down production time. It was also able to boost its output from 3000 units to 8000 units a day for some products and had to take on additional employees as a result. Alison Carter, director, said: “The Local Investment Fund has allowed us to buy brand new machines that have increased our rate of production and allowed us to work around the clock. We have been able to future-proof our IT systems and carry out research and development into new products.” The Local Investment Fund is a package of flexible financial support to assist businesses with capital funding of up to 40% for approved projects, and is accessed through the local authority. Water Treatment Products, which was established in Blaenavon in 1999 and employs 43 people, accessed the grant funding through Torfaen council and was paired with a dedicated business advisor to help them through the process. The company has now purchased five new units at its site on the Gilchrist Thomas Industrial Estate in Blaenavon to allow further expansion. Gaynor Wakeling, business development officer at Torfaen council, said: “Water Treatment Products is an excellent example of a successful business that has been able to use this funding to its full potential. They have been able to expand their operation and as a result have created 12 new jobs, providing employment for local people.” Page 6
To find out more about the Local Investment Fund visit:
http://bit.ly/lif-funding
A unique and inspiring film dedicated to the Blaenavon World Heritage Site has been produced by a new Cwmbran based company, Aeroperspective Ltd. Produced on behalf of Torfaen Council’s Economy, Enterprise and Tourism team the aerial film takes the viewer on a journey around the Blaenavon World Heritage Site and features many aspects of the historical industrial centre that are simply waiting to be explored by visitors. Stunning footage accompanied by inspiring, traditional Welsh flavoured music including the Blaenavon Male Voice Choir along with audio tracks provided by Aubrey Parsons ensure this film is a true delight. The editing of the film was undertaken by local company Cortex Imaging and demonstrates how partnership working has culminated in this splendid piece. Speaking recently, Aeroperspective Director, Steve Parsons, said “whether revisiting the past or simply enjoying the splendour of a landscape reclaimed by nature, there really is something here for everybody “ He continued by saying “from the air the area is simply breath taking. On a clear day the views from the high ground surrounding the town are magnificent. This really is the heart of 'God’s Country'. At Aeroperspective we feel privileged to be providing the world with a glimpse of this very understated but vastly important site that sits alongside other major UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world.” Steve went on to thank all those who helped towards the production of this film throughout the past year particularly Joanne John and Steve Rogers at Torfaen and the staff of the attractions at the World Heritage Sites. Primarily specialising in the acquisition of high quality aerial photographs and broadcast quality video using small unmanned aircraft systems (SUAs), Aeroperpective consists of a team of seven and are rightly proud of the 140 collective years experience of their specialist crews. Whilst predominantly operating locally, their full mobile ground support and crew facilities allow them to operate autonomously for extended periods throughout the UK.
http://bit.ly/visit-blaenavon
www.aeroperspective.com
Aeroperspective are also members of Torfaen Business Voice.
Joining Torfaen Business Voice before the end of November 2014 means you will not only be able to attend our 4th December event with Nev from The Call Centre for £10.00 (the final event in our 2013-14 calendar of member events) but you will also be able to continue your membership until March 2016 from an additional £50.00. Join now using our on-line membership form and take advantage of joining us for our Christmas Meeting on 4th December! New Applications can be submitted online: http://bit.ly/tbv-appform *Please note! From March 2015, we will be asking for all new membership applications AND renewals to be made via this online application form, as opposed to the paper forms (such as the one on the back of this newsletter.)
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IT is easier with HindSight...! In the technology advanced world in which we live, IT support is critical to any business that is serious about longevity and the achievement of goals. Businesses need a comprehensive IT support solution that includes a series of services and responds to technological needs on a variety of levels. Computers, internet, software…these words and many more are commonly used when thinking and speaking about business IT support. The development and widespread use of computers in workplaces, as well as the internet and other communication technologies to fulfil a variety of purposes, has created an incredible need for IT support.
So, how can business IT support assist you? There is a seemingly endless list of reasons why IT support can benefit and improve your business. These include: The experience and expertise of the IT support company to address and fix IT related problems professionally and promptly. Remote oversight and monitoring of your computer systems which allows for proactive arrangements and responses to be made to protect your systems in advance of specific problems arising. Design of solutions to match and enhance your business, regardless of the size of your organisation or the nature and difficulty of the problem that is being experienced. The provision of experience and guidance of expert IT professionals and highly trained and skilled technicians. Well-equipped IT support service providers who have a range of resources at hand to address and correct problems with your business’ IT systems. The possibility of a 24hr / 7 days per week provision of service. This is something that is very much appreciated by businesses who are working to tight timelines. Entering into a contract with an IT support provider can actually save your business money. Rather than having to pay for services on an ‘as required’ basis, you have the security net of IT support being available to you at all times. This is particularly valuable when considering that IT problems tend to come about at the most inconvenient and unexpected times. The remote management of computers and servers also enables issues to be responded to quickly. It is also quite often the case that IT support providers will identify and suggest improvements to the security of your server(s). All businesses must be aware of external threats to their data. An IT support service will help to provide a high level of security against people who are not authorised having access to your data. The contribution that HindSight IT support services can make to the smooth and efficient functioning of your business can be invaluable. With the potential to not only fix problems but also identify and take pre-emptive action about future threats, few businesses can afford to be without the backing of an IT support service.
What our clients say: “Rob has been looking after our IT for 3 years now, offering a first class service. He is always available to sort out any issues we have, whatever the time or day!! Thanks for your help Rob !” – Ventair Cooling, Worcester “Rob and his team have looked after our Golf Club and Hotel now for over 3 years. His service and response times have been second to none. Highly Recommended!” – Bells Hotel & Forest of Dean Golf Club, Coleford, Glos “Rob, has been very helpful and very good at problem solving. Although Rob has been working with us for over 2 years now, I have waited to leave a testimonial until I had a clear opinion of Rob and his service. Rob is always available and if he is unable to attend the premises, he will try his very best to solve any issues or porblems remotely. He very much understands computers and IT and if you need a new install of any kind then he will listen. He then recommends you the best value for money solution as opposed to pushing you in a particular direction. If you are looking to change IT consultants then I can recommend Rob and his team” – Forest Hills Golf Club, Coleford, Glos. If you would like to find out more about how HindSight IT can support your business give us a call on 07988 856053 or 01633 740046 and arrange a FREE 1hr Consultation. Page 8
The issue of holiday pay has been in the Courts again and this time, the matter to be determined was whether holiday pay should include a payment in respect of lost commission. In the recent case of Lock v British Gas Trading Limited this matter came before the Employment Tribunal. Due to conflict with previous cases, the claim was referred to the European Court of Justice (‘ECJ’). The ECJ found that holiday pay must not be limited to basic salary and that it must include a payment in respect of commission where that commission is part of the employee’s remuneration – i.e. the employee has a contractual right to commission. The issue is now likely to return to the Employment Tribunals in England and Wales where the Tribunals will consider whether our UK domestic legislation can be interpreted in line with the ECJ’s decision.
At the time of referral to the ECJ, the Attorney General suggested that the average amount of commission over a representative period, for example the previous 12 months, should be taken in order to calculate the amount due. However, the ECJ didn’t confirm this in its Judgment, simply suggesting that any tribunal considering the issue should use a reference period considered representative under domestic law – which, for cases in England and Wales, may mean that an average commission earned over the previous 12 weeks could be applied. This ruling could have large ramifications, especially for small businesses who may struggle to cope with the additional payments they will have to pay to employees on leave.
Sarah Telford
This brings us to another issue – if the Tribunals follow the ECJ decision, how will the commission payment in respect of holiday pay be calculated?
Your Profile Workforce Development Programme Here! with funding towards training
Funding ends 31st March 2015
Call today!
Would you like to benefit from: Increased profitability, productivity and efficiency? Motivated, skilled and more involved workforce? Contact us to discuss how the Workforce Development Programme can identify development and training needs for your staff and business. An experienced advisor will work with you to access support, which will help your business maximise its potential through training and development.
Contact Debbie Jones T: 07734 995729 E: debbie.jones@centreforbusiness.co.uk www.centreforbusiness.co.uk Page 9
It’s back! From October onwards you have the chance to register for a ‘through the keyhole’ tour of the best that Welsh industry has to offer. These planned visits are to Welsh companies who have been recognised as exemplars for ‘best practice’ in numerous themed areas of business. Sponsored by the Welsh Government’s Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Sector and are being delivered by event organisers Kinetic Cubed Ltd. The half-day events will be open to all companies in Wales with manufacturing & innovation interests and any company with a desire to learn from the best Wales has to offer. Businesses will benefit from a presentation given by a key person within the Host Company on what makes them ‘stand out from the crowd’ and a tour of the Host’s facilities (where applicable), combined with a question-and-answer session that provides the opportunity for you to tap into the speaker’s knowledge in relation to your own specific requirements and how such practices could be adopted to fit your company. All of this with valuable networking opportunities between not only the host company but other attending organisations and lunch included for a nominal fee. The IWI programme is only available to Wales based businesses Don’t miss this great opportunity! http://business.wales.gov.uk/inside-welsh-industry Bookings at: http://iwi.kinetic3.co.uk
“Throughout my 25 years of developing leaders within businesses, I have not experienced anything as powerful for enabling change and improvement as Executive Coaching. It is a creative and thought-provoking process that supports individuals to confidently explore new ideas and alternatives with enhanced resilience” Pat said. Professional coaching explicitly targets maximising potential so it can unlock latent sources of productivity and effectiveness. A 2009 survey by the International Coach Federation reported 70% improved work performance, 80% improved self-confidence and 61% improved business management. It can facilitate change in attitude and behaviour, develop talent and potential, improve performance and effectiveness and significantly improve motivation. The coaching relationship is an interactive relationship built on trust – the ability to give and receive confidential feedback within parameters agreed by coach and client. Page 10
“Enhancing ability to face challenges and to generate clarity for forward action is critical in this rapidly changing and ever more complex world. Coaching offers great return on investment for individuals and businesses yet it is not something people traditionally think of doing”. “Meeting challenges and achieving life and business aspirations can be like tending to, and climbing a huge beanstalk. You need to know what’s at the end of the journey, the steps to take and how to get to the top”. Pat is passionate about focussing people on the things that matter the most for them so that they achieve what they want and need in the least complicated way without wasting valuable time and money.
www.twitter.com/torfaenbiz
in
http://linkd.in/1eHoanB
Torfaen Business Voice is the area’s thriving business networking club, comprising of staff in the Torfaen Economy & Enterprise team at Torfaen County Borough Council and local Torfaen businesses keen to make a difference. Joining this thriving and popular business club is very simple and provides excellent value for money.
Torfaen Business Voice membership provides you with....
2 free places at our bustling quarterly business events which feature inspiring speakers,networking opportunities and buffet at a quality local location. Quarterly emailed newsletter with articles, tips and information tailored for local Torfaen businesses. Earn up to £50.00 off next year’s membership fee through our Introduce a Member scheme Informal and organised networking opportunities. Email bulletins with relevant, vetted information. Advance notice of other FREE Torfaen County Borough Council business events and opportunities, including business breakfasts and facilitated networking events. Your company details maintained on the Torfaen Business Voice website. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities via Torfaen Business Voice for member companies to reach the local business market.
We look forward to welcoming you as a Member in 2015. Yours faithfully Torfaen Business Voice Committee
Introduce A Member scheme
If an existing TBV member has introduced you, please enter their name and company name below:
Name :. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Company Name :. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Membership Fee (Please reduce the following fees by £5.00 if joining via our Introduce a Member scheme) Please Tick as Appropriate
£60.00 (Companies with 1-4 employees) £75.00 (Companies with 5+ employees) £40.00 (Companies under 1 year of trading) Company Name:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Company Address:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Post Code:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Contact Name:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Contact Telephone Number:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Position in Company:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-mail address:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website address: www. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Twitter:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Facebook:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brief Description of company products/services: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................................................................. .................................................................. No of employees: Length of time business has been operating: Under 1 year
1-5 years
6-10 years
11-15 years
16-20+ years
Please tell us how you found out about Torfaen Business Voice:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................................................................. *Please note, entries are available only to businesses that are located within Torfaen.