NetWorks Issue 15: The Sustainability Issue

There is no Planet B Stop. Look. Think.

Helping you build a successful business

Evans Mockler are a long established and dynamic firm of Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors. We specialise in both the construction industry and the property sector.

We are business and tax advisors and recognise that our clients require more than just annual compliance. We understand the many challenges that businesses face, particularly within the construction industry. We work closely with our clients to ensure that they overcome these challenges and achieve their goals.

Kindly contact us on 020 8449 9632 if you would like to discuss our range of services and to find out how Evans Mockler can help you build your business.

NetWorks

Editor: Diane Birch, BITA Executive Director

Sub Editor: Laura Watkins, Events and Communications Manager

WELCOME

Features Editor: John Reynolds

BITA Contributors:

Nicola Bardon, BSF Solid Surfaces. Tracey Westell, Pecunia. Russell Silverman, Silver Consultants Limited. James Halligan, The British Hovercraft Company.

Design and Production: E jules@stimula.co.uk

Online version: https://bita.ie/magazines.html

Printer: Aquablue

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E laura@bita.ie

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NetWorks is published by BITA Ltd. Its entire content is protected by copyright 2023 and all its rights reserved. Reproduction without prior permission is forbidden. Every care has been taken in compiling the content of the magazine, but the publisher assumes no responsibility in the effect arising therefrom. Readers are advised to seek professional advice before acting on any information which is contained in the magazine. Neither BITA Ltd or NetWorks accept any liability for views expressed, pictures used or claims used by advertisers.

Being on autopilot can be a good thing, after all, we don’t want to waste brain space focusing on doing up our shoelaces! And with all the modes of communication we have hitting us from all sides, sometimes, saving our sanity by being in default mode is a necessity.

We couldn’t drive capably if we didn’t go into autopilot when we get into the car, but some people can act on autopilot very competently, and for others, it can be a hazard because they lack focus.

I do believe that we get better through repetition, and we get faster through familiarity, two facets of autopilot successfully kicking in, but as part of my job, I visit lots of companies and meet many people, and am increasingly left speculating on the lack of time given to reflection and proactivity.

I’m guilty of this myself, when coming across a new idea, my go-to response is to just grab it, and when confronting a challenging situation, it’s automatic to just react. But when I slow down, when I have time to think things through, I am nearly always struck with finding a better way.

Whether this thinking time is a solo exercise, a partnership discussion, or a team briefing; taking time to consider the varied facets of a problem; or the ways that a new idea may impact others, can result in a much smoother solution or transition.

Thinking through the root of a problem can also lead to plugging gaps in processes or staff training, heading-off future problems, or reducing workloads. Freeing up time to THINK will give way to new initiatives and more engagement.

Artificial Intelligence will be part of our future, but what we have over our automated counterparts is the ability to use our emotional intelligence to make the best decisions. Thinking gives us the edge. As humans, we can find solutions to complex problems without the data.

You snooze you lose. Don’t be hoodwinked – THINK!

PAUL WHITNELL President

@BITAIntl

@BITAIntl

@BITA

@BITA_Intl

Sponsored by Green Box Recycling www.gboxkent.com

The Cost of Sustainability

Traditionally, sustainability in business refers to a company’s strategy to reduce the negative impact of their operations on the environment. I have always felt that true sustainability goes much further.

Sustainability is about making sure, to the best of your ability, that your business is well prepared for the future – whatever that future may look like. Being sustainable means that your staff are well cared for, leading to a lower staff turnover. It means that you have a relationship with your customers and can attract new ones. It also means that you embrace and generate change, anticipating rather than reacting. Without money, none of this is possible, so it also means safeguarding your income and profit margins.

These things are easier said than done; how can business owners fulfil their responsibility of protecting the environment,

community and staff, as well as protecting the bottom line? And how can we possibly measure it?

I have written in the magazine before about the Better Business Act (Issue 13, page 6), and I think it’s worth mentioning again. The Better Business Act is asking business leaders to lobby the government to amend Section 172 and join the coalition to make it a legal requirement to be a responsible business. Currently the government just asks business owners to be ‘mindful’. As we all know, if Business A down the road chooses not to be mindful and provides the same service as Business B for 20% less, then Business B is not likely to choose to be mindful either. We’re in a waiting game with 76% of UK businesses stating that they want to be held legally responsible for their environmental impact.

Diane Birch, Executive Director of BITA, delves into ESG (Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance) and how it can help your company get ahead

But while the government are dragging their heels, I wanted to show that there are many reasons why businesses may choose to jump into sustainability, and the wider, deeper pool of ESG, without being pushed by government legislation.

Assessing the Demand

The recent rise in the cost of living has impacted our wallets, and this has had an impact on consumer spending. Although we have not experienced a recession, many people are worried and preparing for it ‘just in case’. It would be tempting to think that this will have quelled people’s demand for ethical products.

The Ethical Consumer Markets Report has been published since 1999 and is an important barometer of UK consumer spending. Data is tracked across a wide range of sectors. The most recent report is from 2022 and highlights just how important it is for businesses to be perceived as green. As a global trend, the willingness to spend more on ethical products is starting to decline, mostly in poorer countries. However, in richer countries, including the UK and Ireland, demand is holding steady and, in some instances, increasing.

The report shows that hybrid and electric car sales increased by 61% from 2020-21, and the growth doesn’t seem to have been impacted much by the UK governments withdrawal of the electric car grants.

There has been a 32% increase in homes being powered by renewable energy providers – which equates to 1 million more homes.

The report, and others like it, has found that the ‘ethical market growth is a long-term trend’.

These trends suggest that it might be worth willingly embracing sustainability (ESG) before we are forced to by government legislation. It seems that consumer demand is willing and able to absorb some additional costs and is eager to engage with sustainable businesses. So, provided that adopting these practices doesn’t drive up your costs too much, committing early means you might just find yourself ahead of the competition with other businesses scrabbling to catch up.

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)

ESG is a framework used to gauge an organisation’s business practices and performances on various sustainability and ethical issues. The main regulations are set out in the Companies Act, and section 172 requires company directors to have regard to the interests of their employees, the need to foster business relationships, and the impact that the business has on the community, environment and its own reputation.

Although this is superseded by the duty that directors promote the success of the business for the benefit of the shareholders, consumers have made it clear that they

may reconsider purchasing from businesses failing to adopt ESG practices. This could mean that committing to ESG, and communicating it successfully, will lead to greater returns.

I feel comfortable making this assertation, not only due to anecdotal evidence, but also because there has this year been an excellent report issued by McKinsey, investigating the demand of consumers for ESG products.

They found that “Products making ESG-related claims averaged 28 percent cumulative growth over the past fiveyear period, versus 20 percent for products that made no such claims.” This was in the USA, and over the sales period from 2017 to 2022, so this accounts for the financial impact of the pandemic. I propose that there would not be a marked difference between consumer habits in the USA, and the UK and Ireland, and slightly older studies bear this out.

Of course, there is nuance at the individual product level, however broadly speaking, and across many categories, there was a material link between a business’s commitment to ESG, and consumer spending on their products.

This hasn’t even considered the impact on tendering if you don’t give at least a nod to ESG. Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 06/20, requires that ESG is expressly evaluated in all UK central government procurement as of January 2021. This Note, entitled ‘Taking account of social value in the award of central government contracts’ requires measurement using a ‘social value model’, with a minimum weight of 10% is given to ESG objectives when it comes to each procurement.

The social value model is divided to cover 5 main themes: COVID-19 recovery, tackling economic inequality, fighting climate change, equal opportunities and wellbeing. Businesses that are unable to demonstrate commitment to ESG will be at a severe disadvantage when applying for tender, and those who are found to have exaggerated their commitment may be blocked from applying for another government tender for up to three years.

This builds on the previous PPN 09/16 which applied to all UK central government construction, infrastructure and capital investment procurements valued over £10m, which in turn expanded on the Public Services Act 2012 that mandates all contractors consider ESG at pre-tender stage.

Any company looking to land a large contract in the UK should certainly be active rather than performative with their ESG commitments.

Measuring your Impact

There is no hard and fast set of standards to measure your impact, which is good news, as you can decide where you want to focus, and consider what a good result would be for your business. If you are really struggling in one area, then your target may be different from someone already doing well. Any improvement is good, and we can’t let the pursuit of perfection lead to inaction.

A business may want to measure metrics such as carbon emissions, amount of waste sent for recycling, water usage, employee turnover rates, diversity at management level and above, wages and more. How do you want to prioritise helping your community?

Making the Commitment

Ultimately it is up to individual businesses whether they want to engage with ESG. However, I think it’s clear that there is a good argument for doing so. With over 3 quarters of business leaders wanting the government to legislate in this area, and with the issue being popular among the voting public, it seems likely that legislation will be bought in through the door of the Better Business Act soon. When it does, businesses who have already embraced ESG practices will be ahead of their competition.

If legislation isn’t bought in, it would most likely still be in the business’s best interests to adopt a more mindful approach to appeal to a more environmentally and social equality driven consumer base.

The best studies tell us that demand for ‘green’ products is rising in developed nations and is expected to continue to do so. I would also argue that as business leaders, as people who can make a change, we are morally obligated to preserve what we can for the generations ahead.

THE RECENT RISE IN THE COST OF LIVING HAS IMPACTED OUR WALLETS, AND THIS HAS HAD AN IMPACT ON CONSUMER SPENDING.

LET US LOOK AFTER YOU

We are proud to be a trusted partner and to continue as BITA’s platinum sponsor. With over 35 years’ experience, and as a Lloyd’s of London accredited insurance broker, Kerry London is well positioned to offer bespoke insurance advice for BITA members.

No matter what cover you need, we will invest our time to understand your business and how best to protect it.

Our covers include:

Trade Credit A financial safety net

The UK construction industry has shown extraordinary resilience in dealing with the economic uncertainty of the last few years. With the devastating conflict in Ukraine prolonging this period of financial insecurity, many firms are now looking to the insurance industry for extra protection. Trade Credit insurance has become a lifeline for the construction industry, from SMEs to the UK’s largest companies, and many now view this cover as an essential part of their financial risk management strategy.

Unsurprisingly, demand for trade credit insurance has increased dramatically in the last few years. Construction businesses want the protection it provides against customers failing to pay for goods or services provided to them on a credit basis, often due to insolvency. There’s no doubt that this prolonged economic uncertainty has led to trade credit insurance being perceived as an essential component of a firm’s insurance provision. Trade credit insurance can give businesses the financial confidence to grow their business safely, knowing they are protected from the ‘domino effect’ that can cause businesses to fail.

What are the different types of Trade Credit insurance?

• Short term credit insurance –Cover your receivables due within 12 months against risk of non-payment.

• Medium Term - cover one and cover lease –Cover medium-term capital goods or leasing transactions against breach of contract or unpaid invoices up to 60 months.

• Specialty Credit –Structured trade credit solutions and single transactions from short-term to mid-term, up to 15 years, including solutions to mitigate the political risks on foreign assets.

• Excess of Loss –Cover for exceptional trade credit losses.

• Surety & Guarantee –Cover specifically the non-fulfilment of contract obligations.

• Fidelity (Fraud cover) –Cover against external and internal fraud.

Our partner, Kerry London, continues to monitor changes in the market and deliver insurance solutions that will support construction businesses through this challenging period.

If you want to talk about Trade Credit Insurance, please contact Kerry London at BITA@kerrylondon.co.uk or 020 7623 4957

What’s blocking your eCommerce?

Conor McCaffrey of Matrix Internet, suggests solutions to common problems to guarantee eCommerce success

Agreat majority of retailers that survived Covid-19, did so by focusing heavily on boosting online sales. At the height of the pandemic, consumer behaviour changed drastically, with 10 years of eCommerce growth in just 90 days. The shops re-opening has slowed this growth slightly, but online sales continue to climb year on year; it’s expected that by 2040, nearly 95% of all purchases worldwide will be online. Competition for this money is fierce, and retailers need to keep improving digital channels to adapt to rapidly evolving eCommerce trends. Rapidly evolving can mean difficult to predict, but not impossible!

Let’s explore 5 fundamental problems facing SMEs and discuss some solutions to help stay ahead of the competition...

1. You’re not seen in searches

Nearly half of shoppers start their journey on search engines, so you need to appear near the top of search engine results pages (SERPs). ECommerce SEO is the process of generating more organic traffic to your online store, and ideally page 1 — only 0.63% of shoppers click on the second page. Blogs that link to product pages offer valuable advice while using keywords your audience is searching for.

Use SEO best practices so your blog ranks high:

• Links that direct visitors to your own product pages

• Using the keyword in meta tags, alt text and headings

• Building backlinks from external websites

• Sharing the post on social media.

For product pages, don’t lift content from manufacturers’ promotional material. Unique descriptions add value and enhance SEO.

2. Customers get lost

A successful eCommerce site should be easy to navigate, with a seamless browsing and sales process. The user experience should focus on mapping out the sales funnel through an intuitive user journey, with quality information that maintains trust. User experience is also enhanced by keeping the user’s goal in mind throughout all channels, to develop a holistic, intuitive conversion funnel. And offer a good support service — around 45% of users quit if their questions aren’t answered properly.

3. Your

eCommerce site is open to hackers

Cybercrime costs the global economy over €6 trillion a year, and security breaches are a huge challenge facing all eCommerce businesses. Customers’ private data is the most valuable asset in eCommerce, and it’s often a target for hackers. Work with an agency that prioritises secure hosting, security maintenance and keeping software, codebase and third-party integrations up to date. Make sure your development or hosting provider offers a robust service level agreement with ongoing support.

4. It costs too much to attract new customers

Companies can calculate customer acquisition costs (CAC) by dividing all sales and marketing costs by the number of new customers gained in a given period. Research shows that customer acquisition costs have increased by 60% in the last five years, accelerated by consumers’ ability to reduce ad tracking and other privacy issues such as Google Analytics 4 overhauling its cookie policy. Reduce CAC by defining your target audience precisely, retargeting customers, and test rigorously.

5. You’re losing track of your stock

A multichannel business model gives retailers a dynamic edge — boosting revenue and brand presence by exposing products to different target markets and customer types. Managing stock across numerous channels such as click and collect, online marketplaces and a personal online shop can be complex, as each channel has different challenges: Estimating demand – Your inventory should be optimised for each separate sales channel. Underestimating demand can result in order delays, cancellations and a breakdown of customer trust. And if a sales channel has too much stock it can seriously affect revenue and cash flow and add extra pressure to other channels. Tracking inventory – With cloud-based inventory tracking systems, you’ll have a centralised auto-sync inventory system that will help you monitor performance and warn you with alerts for out-of-stock or in-demand products.

Returns policy – To guarantee conversions and sales, build trust before a sale with a transparent, jargon-free returns policy that puts the customer first. Ideas include extended return periods, free returns, seamless return label printing, or permitting returns in physical stores.

Matrix Internet is a full-service design, development and digital marketing agency, with offices in Dublin and Brussels. Matrix specialises in eCommerce development and digital marketing projects, and helping clients enter new international markets through localisation strategies, digital transformation and project management.

Transforming Tax Investigations

Martin Mockler, Partner at Evans Mockler, discusses HMRC’s Connect Supercomputer, and how it is Transforming Tax Investigations in the Digital Age

In an era defined by technological advancements, governments worldwide are harnessing the power of supercomputing to enhance their operations and service delivery. His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the UK’s tax authority, is no exception to this trend. With its groundbreaking supercomputer called Connect, HMRC is revolutionising tax compliance and enforcement. This article explores the capabilities, benefits, and concerns surrounding HMRC’s Connect supercomputer and its impact on tax administration in the digital age.

1. The Power of Connect

Connect is HMRC’s state-of-the-art supercomputer designed to process and analyse vast amounts of data to detect tax evasion, fraud, and non-compliance. Launched in 2016, it acts as a central hub, consolidating information from various sources, such as tax returns, bank records, property transactions, and social media, to create a comprehensive taxpayer profile. By integrating disparate datasets, Connect enables HMRC to identify patterns, anomalies, and potential tax risks with unprecedented speed and accuracy.

2. Enhanced Tax Compliance

Connect’s advanced data analytics capabilities have transformed HMRC’s ability to enforce tax compliance. By cross-referencing information from multiple sources, the supercomputer can quickly identify inconsistencies or discrepancies in taxpayer records. This enables HMRC to target specific individuals or businesses for closer scrutiny, increasing the effectiveness of tax investigations. Connect has facilitated the recovery of significant amounts of unpaid tax and helped deter potential tax evaders through improved risk assessment.

3. Minimising Tax Fraud and Evasion

Tax fraud and evasion pose significant challenges for governments. However, with Connect, HMRC has gained a powerful weapon in the fight against these illicit activities. The supercomputer’s ability to process vast amounts of data in real-time allows HMRC to detect irregularities and suspicious patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. Connect has played a crucial role in identifying

complex tax avoidance schemes, enabling HMRC to take swift action and recover lost revenue. The improved detection capabilities have also acted as a strong deterrent, discouraging potential tax evaders from engaging in illegal practices.

4. Streamlined Processes and Efficiency

Connect has streamlined and automated various aspects of tax administration, making the process more efficient for both taxpayers and HMRC. The supercomputer can analyse large volumes of data in minutes, replacing manual efforts that could take months or even years. This accelerated processing enables faster tax assessments, reducing the burden on taxpayers and ensuring a quicker turnaround time for refunds. Furthermore, Connect’s ability to consolidate data from multiple sources into a single platform simplifies compliance procedures for taxpayers, making it easier to navigate the complexities of the tax system.

5. Privacy and Ethical Considerations

The use of a supercomputer like Connect inevitably raises concerns about privacy and data protection. HMRC recognises the sensitivity of taxpayer information

and has implemented robust security measures to safeguard personal data. Connect operates within strict legal frameworks and adheres to established privacy regulations, ensuring that data is used lawfully and responsibly. However, it remains crucial for HMRC to maintain transparency and accountability regarding data handling practices to build public trust and confidence in the system.

6. Future Developments and Challenges

At Evans Mockler we have observed HMRCs move away from routine tax and VAT audits over the past decade. During the 7 years since 2016 Connect has played a large part in that new approach. Using Connect, HMRC can cross reference a large database of information with existing tax records to uncover errors or omissions. A good example is the fact that HMRC has access to the tenancy deposit protection schemes. At the push of a button HMRC can identify landlords registered with these schemes who are not declaring rental income on their tax returns.

HMRC also use Connect to analyse various forms of social media which again can highlight general inconsistencies between the activities of a taxpayer compared to their tax records. While Connect has undoubtedly revolutionised tax compliance, the landscape continues to evolve. HMRC’s continued investment in research and development will be vital to enhance Connect’s capabilities and ensure it remains at the forefront of tax enforcement technology. HMRC’s Connect supercomputer represents a significant milestone in the digital transformation of tax administration and has dramatically reduced the opportunities for individuals to seek to evade or avoid tax.

Announcing the BITA Awards for 2023 Celebrating our Members

Our community is not just important to us, it’s the reason we exist as an organisation. This is why we have been increasing the amount and variety of events that we offer, growing our membership, and expanding on the support available through our Support Hubs.

We especially love doing this at our Gala Ball and Awards Ceremony, last year held at The Londoner, as I’m sure many of you remember (or not!) This is an incredible event, but it does take a lot of resources to be able to run it to the standard you deserve, so we have decided to make this a bi-annual event. We are planning to hold the next one in late Q3 / early Q4 2024, and we hope to welcome many of you to what will be a spectacular event to celebrate your achievements.

With this in mind, we still wanted to host a celebration lunch where we could hold our BITA awards, and we are pleased to announce that this will be on the 10th November 2023, at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel!

This hotel is often celebrated as one of the most romantic buildings in London, it is an iconic gothic treasure from the late 1800s, and we are excited to welcome our guests to its storied halls.

This is a stunning venue in a great location, and we will be organising light entertainment, a wonderful meal with wine for all our guests, and most importantly, the chance for us all to recognise the amazing work that our members have done in the last year.

This is also an excellent opportunity for our new members to raise their profile in our community!

GROWING BUSINESS

This award is for companies who have been trading for a minimum of 3 years and who have a robust strategy for growth, with a proven track record of profit increase over the last 12 months.

BUSINESS TO BUSINESS

This award is for companies demonstrating a successful track record of adding value to their customers’ business through an understanding of partnership, responsiveness and their customers’ own business drivers.

BITA SUPPORTER

This award is for companies or individuals that really ‘get’ BITA, and make sure that they are involved with the organisation - giving as good as they are receiving! They are the “People who Know People that Help People!”

EMERGING YOUNG LEADER

This trailblazer is coming up with innovative business solutions. We are looking for someone who is a calculated risk taker and an innovator.

BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

This award is for companies that keep the needs of the community and environment in mind, maintaining an eye on the needs of the business while balancing the future health of the planet.

We want to encourage as many members as possible to enter the awards, so that we can hear about your growth, plans and innovations, but we are on a tight schedule, so please make sure you have entered by the end of July!

We are using an incredible platform called PresentIT from LovIT to manage these awards. All you need to do is go to the awards page on the BITA website (www.bita.ie/awards), click on 2023 and follow the instructions for each award. You’ll be taken to the PresentIT platform, where you will need to record a short

video detailing who you are, how we can get in touch, and why you should win the award! You will need to create a separate video for each award that you want to enter, and you can enter as many as you like.

We will then use footage from these entry videos to create a video to show at the event.

We will announce three finalists for each award nearer the time, and then the overall winners will be announced and celebrated at the lunch on the 10th November.

Please note we will only accept entries from active BITA members. If you do not currently have BITA membership, we recommend you get in touch with megan@bita.ie or join up through the BITA website before entering.

Tickets are available on the website, where you can purchase individual tickets or whole tables. Our guests will arrive from 11.30am for networking in The Gallery and the Ladies Smoking Room, where we will have some excellent musical entertainment.

We will then move through to the Hansom Hall for lunch, and the announcement of the winners! Following the lunch we will then move to a local bar for some celebratory drinks and, of course, some networking.

There are opportunities for sponsorship of this event, including the wine, the awards, entertainment and more. So, if you would like to support us with this event, and raise your profile too, get in touch with laura@bita.ie and we can discuss options available!

So, we hereby announce the opening of the BITA Awards 2023. And the categories are....

Theconundrumsustainability

Sustainability has been a hot topic for several years, and the construction industry is feeling it keenly. There is an ever-increasing focus on the impact of plastics and polluting practices on the health of our planet, but also on our individual health.

Our increasing awareness of these issues is becoming more obviously at odds with our consumerist society that values excess, big brands, and the ‘new’. I suggest that as responsible manufacturers, we try and steer people towards buying excellent, and long-lasting quality items, rather than fuelling the disposable mindset held by so many.

We can’t all commit 100% to sustainability, but everything helps, and the enemy of progress is perfection. As a business, and as an industry, we are trying to do what we can to improve outcomes for the environment. This starts with our culture and values and radiates out from there. Who do we want to work with, what materials should we stock, how do we balance profits and impact?

I can’t answer these questions for other businesses, but at BSF Solid Surfaces, we are focusing on suppliers that centre the needs of the wider community, and there are a lot of incredible products now available.

Working in solid surfaces, I have seen many manufacturers reduce their carbon footprint. Some have done this by using different methods of production, by improving logistics, and in some cases, by choosing different factories. When dealing with large-scale productions, seemingly small changes can have an outsized impact.

The core components of solid surface are ATH, which is a fine white powder, produced as a byproduct of aluminium mining. Aluminium is the most abundant metallic element in the Earth’s crust. This material is collected during mining operations, which prevents it from leaching into the environment.

Durat is another common material that is made using 30% recycled postindustrial plastic and is itself 100% recyclable. Polygood, a relative newcomer to the UK market is also known as a cradleto-cradle surface product, which is made

up using 100% recycled PS (Polystyrene) as well as being 100% recyclable.

Dupont, the manufacturer of Corian, the market leading Solid Surface, have taken this seriously, with several of their colours containing recycled content, where discarded material is reused to form part of a new batch of sheet material.

They are certified by Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) and can contain up to 20% recycled content. This is not the only way they are doing their bit; they have also obtained both Eurofins and Greenguard certs, which highlight that the material itself produces no VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions and contains no formaldehyde. Corian is also SKA rating compliant.

Some businesses are even creating online portals to help with the reuse / recycling of produced materials. The one for solid surfaces is www.reutilize.co.uk (courtesy of Counter Productions).

Innovations like these are found across manufacturing and construction. From paint that draws carbon from

the atmosphere and is self-cleaning, to building materials made from repurposed plastic. I would encourage any business working in the industry to check their supply chains for new, innovative, sustainable products.

Innovation isn’t cheap, and neither is the best quality. In line with sustainability goals, we need to start encouraging consumers, where possible, to buy the best quality they can, with a mind to buying it once. The improvements in sustainability will be irrelevant if consumers throw things out as soon as they get bored of looking at them. This change in mindset will be difficult, but if people start expecting things to last a decade, they’ll will be far more likely to pay the top price.

KEEPING YOUR SURFACES SOLID

One of the most attractive features of Solid Surface, is that it is built to last. It can be reused, and repurposed, and is warrantied for 10 years. It can be cleaned easily, using soapy water, not requiring any specialist sealing or products. In the event of stubborn stains, use Bar Keepers Friend!

In a world of uncertainty - cash will still be king!

Over the last few years, many companies have seen turbulent times, whether it be through lack of cash, an increase in costs, staffing issues, utility or fuel bills, in fact, almost everything.

So, what can every business do to help reduce these pressures? Many scale back, some try to gain extra finance, some even undercut competitors, but all to what cost?

The leading reason for business failure is down to one simple thing, not having enough cash (liquid asset) to fulfil your liabilities (things you must pay for). There is a myth that a business is in this situation because they are not doing very well. In fact, there is a very fine line between ‘under trading’ and ‘over trading’, getting that balance right, and not putting yourself over or under that line is key.

Late payment of invoices is one of the leading reasons for insolvency among businesses.

If you think you might be affected, try asking yourself these questions:

1. How overdue are your invoices?

2. What is your billing accuracy?

3. Do you track your DSO? (Days Sales Outstanding)

4. What is the value of invoices under query?

5. Do you have any form of credit management policy/process?

6. What is your late payment policy, and do you enforce it?

Asking to be paid can still be an issue for some businesses, not overcoming this and resolving queries within a timely manner, can lead to an escalation of your cash flow issues.

Monitoring the average time it takes for an invoice to be paid and analysing error rates and invoice queries are key measurements to address and keep on top of, as without doubt, they will impact the liquidity of your business.

Why is cashflow such a taboo?

Cashflow may be considered a taboo subject because people often view it as private financial information. Additionally, discussing cash flow can sometimes be seen as a sign of financial difficulties, which some people may want to keep private. However, it’s important to remember that being open about cash flow can help individuals and businesses make better financial decisions.

So, what is credit management?

Credit management is a process of ensuring that a company or individual collects payment for goods or services sold on credit, while also minimizing the risk of non-payment. It involves setting credit policies, assessing creditworthiness, monitoring accounts receivable, and taking necessary actions to collect overdue payments.

Why is credit management so important for businesses?

It helps maintain a healthy cash flow and reduces the risk of bad debt. Effective credit management involves assessing the creditworthiness of customers, setting appropriate credit limits, monitoring credit usage, and promptly addressing any late payments or defaults.

THE BENEFITS OF OUTSOURCING CASH FLOW AND CREDIT MANAGEMENT

If you haven’t got internal capability in your business, bringing in a specialist to help your business improve Cash Flow and reduce overdue debtors, will have a positive impact on the financial health of your business.

Our member Tracey Westell from Pecunia has provided the guidance in this article and her business can provide the debt collection strategies and management, that would contribute to your business success.

Pecunia proactively works with businesses passing on their extensive knowledge, experience, skills & expertise in all areas of –

• credit management

• credit control

• credit control courses and training

• cash flow management and

• commercial debt recovery

What steps can businesses make to improve cashflow and reduce debtors:

1. Implement strict credit policies and credit checks before offering credit to customers. Afterall giving credit is the same as a bank loan.... You’re giving YOUR money away.

2. Agree clear payment terms from the outset. Don’t be afraid to tell them you expect to be paid, and when.

3. Ensure your billing the right company you are contracted to, and the correct address/email/person responsible for making payments.

4. Have your payment terms and bank details or other methods of payments on the invoice.

5. Make sure they have received your invoice and follow up a few days after issue and ensure there are no issues.

6. Setting up payment reminders and following up with customers who are late in paying.

7. Offering discounts to customers who pay early.

What benefits can a business receive when it has structured credit management processes?

• Improved cash flow: By managing credit effectively.

• Reduced credit risk: Effective credit management processes can help a business identify and mitigate credit risk.

• Stronger customer relationships: A structured credit management process can help a business build stronger relationships with its customers by ensuring that payments are made on time and disputes are resolved quickly and fairly.

• Increased efficiency: By automating credit management processes, a business can save time and reduce administrative costs, which can improve overall efficiency and profitability.

• Better decision-making: By having access to accurate and up-to-date credit information, a business can make better decisions about extending credit, setting credit terms, and managing cash flow.

Should businesses invest in training and upskilling credit controllers?

Very few companies look at training and upskilling credit controllers but bear in mind that they are the custodians of your most valued asset; it should be seen as a vital investment. Afterall effective credit control is essential for ensuring a healthy cash flow and minimizing the risk of bad debt. By investing in training and upskilling credit controllers, businesses can improve their financial stability and reduce the likelihood of financial difficulties caused by unpaid debts.

Would a business get better access to funding, finance, and investment if they have a good credit management policy?

A good credit management policy can improve a business’s access to funding, finance, and investment. Lenders and investors often consider a business’s creditworthiness when deciding whether to provide funding or invest. More and more underwriters are looking at how a business deals with their credit management function and has a robust policy.

A good credit management policy can demonstrate a business’s ability to manage its finances responsibly, show that can look after their main cash generating asset and repay debts on time, all of which can increase its credibility and reduce the perceived risk of lending.

Government-funded training Incredible opportunities available for SMEs

Your business is only as good as the people you employ!

The better trained and skilled they are, the better they will perform and the better decisions they will make. And ultimately the better your organisation will perform.

Who wouldn’t want that?

Training also has positive outcomes for individuals. It can motivate people and reduce staff turnover; it can help people feel valued and build their confidence. It can have a positive impact on their wellbeing and engagement.

However, training can be expensive and can take people out of the business for periods of time, which, quite frankly, many SMEs cannot afford.

But there is a way to upskill your people, at minimum cost, and in a way that new skills can immediately be put into practice in the workplace, so the employee and the business benefits.

Paula Fisher from Practical HR has worked with Crown Vocational Training to make training available to their clients with some very positive outcomes. This training and associated funding is available to any organisation.

“There are many courses available, but there are 3 that we have identified working with Crown, that can benefit any SME. They are: Human Resources, Business Skills and People Management. They are available for anyone who looks after HR, business operations or manages a team of people within an SME.”

The courses run over a 12–18-month period

and are designed to be extremely practical and embed new knowledge and skills into the workplace.

Each participant is allocated a specialist tutor, and they receive handouts and links to information and resources, access to workshops, and one to one support sessions.

All sessions are delivered remotely, which means that you don’t need to be in a specific area to apply and there is no travelling time or costs.

What is the cost of the training?

Each course is valued at between £4500 - £4750. However, it will only cost the business £250 per participant! This is because the government is funding 95% of the course.

What are the benefits?

Participants will gain a more detailed understanding of the skills required to drive a business forward, expanding their knowledge and skills. This will culminate in an end assessment and final project that adds value to the

business. The HR course is accredited by the CIPD and the management courses are accredited by City and Guilds.

Funding is via the Government Apprentice Scheme. Please do not let the word ‘apprentice’ put you off! It is just the mechanism and framework to access Government funding. Anyone, of any age, can do an apprenticeship (subject to eligibility) and benefit from the funding. Apprenticeships cover a wide range of job roles and skills, right up to degree level qualifications.

For more details, please contact:

Sophie Chowdhury

Email – schowdhury@crownvt.co.uk

Telephone – 01702 597499

Mobile – 07508 758970

Make Sure You’re Not at Risk

Take advantage of a free HR Audit

Many SMEs struggle with HR. They often find it time consuming and frustrating, and they struggle to keep up to date with ever-changing employment law. The BITA HR Hub is designed to alleviate some of these frustrations, providing access to HR guidance and templates, and regular notifications and updates.

In many SMEs there is no dedicated HR department, and HR is given to someone who probably has little or no HR training (please see the article opposite!). Poor (or no) HR is a key reason why SME organisations experience issues from poor conduct and lack of engagement to high absences.

The bottom line is that your people are your greatest asset, but they can also be one of your biggest liabilities! If something goes wrong with an employee it can be very painful, time consuming and costly – and an incredible challenge to defend if you can’t point to your robust HR procedures.

To reduce risk and to ensure protection, you need to make sure you have the right HR in place and, at the very least, are meeting your legal and compliance obligations. Ideally, you’ll go further than this and build a solid, userfriendly HR foundation.

But where to start?

The BITA HR Hub includes an easy-touse HR Audit document. Completing it will highlight any gaps in your HR. It will also identify areas where you may be immediately vulnerable to claims, fines or penalties.

Paula Fisher from Practical HR explains how a client benefited from using the HR audit document and additional guidance and templates on the HR Hub.

“Our client is a small SME with a limited budget to spend on HR. However, they were worried about HR and felt very vulnerable. They wanted to make sure they were meeting their legal obligations

but needed to do this in the most costeffective way.

We recommended they started by completing an HR Audit document, as found on the HR Hub on the BITA website. The audit helped them identify the gaps they had in their HR, and they used the guidance and templates to start filling them.

For example, the Audit highlighted that they were not carrying out the correct ‘right to work in the UK’ checks. The guidance on the HR Hub went thorough step by step what they needed to do, and they made this change immediately.

The audit also highlighted that they did not have a disciplinary and grievance procedure in place. They used the templates policies on the Hub and implemented these (along with other policies).

They also used the policy on standards to help draft their codes of conduct and document their working practices so that the many ‘questions’ being asked by employees were clearly documented for everyone to refer to. This reduced the many questions and gave everyone more clarity.

The Audit will provide you with an action plan, and helps you prioritise what

to do first. You can then use the guidance and documents on the HR Hub to fill any of the gaps!

The Audit document is being made available to ALL BITA (UK) members FREE for the month of July 2023. We want all our members to have the tools and information to ensure they are compliant and minimise risk, so they can get on with business with confidence.

Just go to the BITA Member Support area, click through the HR Hub and you’ll find yourself in the introduction section. You can then search for the HR Audit using the search function, or if you’re viewing this online, click on the link below! https://bita.yourhr.guide/categories/ introduction/hr-audit

If you want more support with your HR, and you want to do it yourself, please contact Paula Fisher at Practical HR (who provide the HR Hub) and she will be happy to explain other options where Paula and her team will look after your HR for you.

Contact details: paula@practicalhr.co.uk, 01702 216573

THE AUDIT HIGHLIGHTED THAT THEY WERE NOT CARRYING OUT THE CORRECT ‘RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK’ CHECKS.

Setting up a business can be stressful enough. Yes, there are hopes and plans for financial security, retiring early, and maybe even a fabulous lifestyle, but there are also worries about costs, regulations, and of course, the spectre of tax. No one wants to pay it, and many business owners have sleepless nights worrying about potential tax bills and the image of HMRC arriving to take away their assets (and possibly their first born).

Many business owners appoint a good accountant who can reassure them that their business is safe, explain the way the system works, and how they can legitimately save tax and save FOR the inevitable tax bill.

Many tax-deductible expenses are routinely covered by most businesses and their advisers. However, occasionally some things slip through the net, and there are some tax claims, that in my experience, are regularly overlooked by both client and adviser. I wanted to share these with NetWorks readers, so you can check that they are being included in your return. Being aware and including them could seriously improve your cash flow.

Embedded Capital Allowances

This is a tax claim available for individuals or Limited Companies who are commercial property owners, or tenants who refurbish properties. Commercial properties will include office blocks, factories, warehouses, hotels, pubs, care homes, restaurants... basically any

Show Me the Money

....and the Tax Savings!

Unlocking Tax Breaks that you may never know existed

building in which a business is located. Even sports grounds.

The basis of the claim is often described as what doesn’t fall out if the property is turned upside down. It covers items situated in the fabric of the building such as wiring, air conditioning systems, plug sockets etc. It is estimated that an average of 26% of the value of properties in the UK can form part of a claim.

Not many know about this claim, even accountants, and many accountants that do know about it do not have to expertise to do the work. Even HMRC describe this in their internal manuals as a difficult claim to make. However, when it is lodged it’s a nice surprise for the recipients.

I have recently become involved in a hotel redevelopment where the potential tax saving is approx. £250,000. Another current assignment is a building that incorporates a dental surgery where it looks like there`s a refund of £50,000. Every commercial property owner, or tenant, should investigate this tax saving opportunity.

Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credits

This claim is more widely known, but frequently misunderstood. It is a government reward for innovation, available to Limited Companies, given out as a tax saving. Many envisage this as men in white coats, who wear thick glasses and spend all day locked in a room with Bunsen burners. The work by the men in white coats will qualify, but most claims are from ordinary businesses doing everyday things. What is misunderstood is that normal work tasks, or ideas, may be part of a claim.

For example, experimenting with a new product or process may qualify,

even if it fails (my biggest claim of all time related to a potential new product that never reached the market). Similarly creating a new database from scratch can qualify. Again, many are surprised when they successfully claim a tax saving.

One client, a windows manufacturer, repeated to me so many times “We don`t do anything special” that it became a running joke. He received £70,000 in his bank account for “nothing special”.

There is a deadline of 2 years from the end of a financial period to file the claim, which means that many first-time claimants file 2 claims at once, one of those years regularly producing a refund of a tax bill already paid, with the other reducing a future tax liability.

One other important point is that where a company makes a tax loss, it can elect to receive a R&D related refund, even if no tax has been paid previously. This is unusual as normally you need to pay tax to get it back.

I have been involved in long term projects, for example app development, where HMRC have provided interest free finance, by way of an R&D refund to a loss-making entity, which has assisted the eventual success of the venture.

R&D claims can be made every year helping the cash flow of the business and providing funds for business development and recruitment. It should always be considered as part of the overall strategy.

For further information on how Silver Consultants can help your business, go to https://silverconsultants.co.uk/

Be Safe, Be Smart

3. Real-time visibility is a game changer

Digitising workflows means organisations can monitor their field service team in real-time using our live performance dashboard. Using the system on a handheld device, field service workers check in as they complete various steps of a project. Live views back at base, means job progress can be monitored, issues identified and steps taken to remedy.

4. Continuous auditing ensures accountability and tracks compliance

Field service workers are more at risk for accidents than their in-office counterparts. Falling from a height and losing control of a vehicle or its attachments were the leading causes of workplace fatalities in 2022i. As well as their responsibility to their workers, utilities and other firms can face serious repercussions if there is an accident on-site, with business reputation and financial consequences at stake.

Implementing effective risk management is essential. Complying with all the necessary industry regulations can be all consuming and constant reporting and auditing is a time-heavy task with no margin for error. Dedicated technology that manages and delivers complete oversight of health and safety procedures, but also drives compliance, has become critical.

Effective Health and Safety system elements

The cornerstones of an organisation’s health and safety strategy are risk assessment, training management, visibility, continuous auditing, and incident reporting. These five elements combine to create a solid approach to health and safety. Integrating technologies such as AI, IoT and AR (Augmented Reality) are making a real contribution to creating safer work environments.

1. On-site risk assessment is a critical first step

Before any job is undertaken field workers typically conduct an on-site risk assessment, allowing them to make an effective and safe plan for the job. Simply Workflow FSM requires the worker to proceed through a dedicated risk assessment form. The form features a series of checks that need to be confirmed before the worker can proceed to the next step. An inbuilt warning system in the form flags risks such as incorrect wiring, the presence of hazardous materials or dangerous weather conditions, and prevents workers from proceeding with a job if conditions are unsafe.

2. Matching the right worker with the right job is key

Training plays a huge part in field worker safety. Up-to-date training and certification ensure workers understand the health and safety protocols for specific jobs and have the necessary skills to complete these jobs safely. Unique in the industry, the Simply Workflow FSM system helps organisations track employee training and certification. Cross referencing workers certifications against each job type ensures that only workers with the necessary training are deployed to certain sites.

A key feature of Simply Workflow is the auditing feature, used by our clients to record and fulfil their regulatory and/or contractual obligations. On-site audits can be conducted by field service workers via automated workflows on their handheld device. Supervisors can then audit each job upon completion. The process is digitised, no paperwork is required and data is backed up in the cloud. This efficient and easy-to-use auditing facility helps clients maintain quality control while saving them time and reducing the burden on them to meet their regulatory obligations.

5. Reporting incidents allow organisations to quickly take action

FSM software makes it easy for workers to report incidents and hazards directly from the field. Workers can upload photos from their mobile and provide clear documentation of any hazard or incident. Supervisors have immediate access, allowing them to investigate and take corrective action quickly. Effective reporting is an important part of any health and safety policy, and plays a key role in documenting so-called near misses and good catches allowing organisations to learn from the experiences and reduce the potential for serious accidents to happen.

Be safe, be smart

Using FSM systems with strong health and safety features saves time, creates efficiencies in reporting and ensures compliance. Advances in technology are changing how we can meet the specific challenges each industry has. We are excited to work with our clients to contribute to safer workplaces and practices for all.

If you would like to know more about how we can help your organisation manage health and safety across your field service team email info@simplyworkflow.com

i https://press.hse.gov.uk/2022/07/06/workplace-fatality-figures-published/

Alan Shelly, COO of Simply Workflow looks at how smart technology is helping utilities manage daily health and safety challenges for their field-based workforce

Powering the Future

For decades, the global energy sector has been in flux, but the direction in which investment is surging has become increasingly clear: The switchover to renewable energy and accelerating innovation in clean energy technologies.

Moreover, the current energy crisis and cost of living are directly linked to our dependency on natural gas and oil. The need to shift to renewables is becoming more and more apparent.

Given the global imperative to curb climate change, sustainability is the overriding force propelling the trends discussed in this energy sector review. While fossil fuels will be consumed for decades to come, the economic tide is turning in favour of sustainability and low-carbon energy. Waves of renewable energy are swelling in the wake of the oil and coal super-tankers that have fuelled development since the industrial revolution.

The future looks renewable

Established wind and solar providers have already begun providing cheaper energy than fossil fuel power stations. The investment case has tilted decisively in recent years, as new-build wind and solar farms became cost-competitive with the incumbent power plants in many countries.

Coal will continue growing in Asia –notably China, India and Southeast Asia – beyond this fuel’s global peak in 2026. Cheap natural gas will drive coal out of the energy mix in the US as global gasgenerating capacity doubles by 2050. In the UK, the coal-to-gas conversion will also accelerate its phase-out ahead of the official 2030 target before offshore and onshore wind and solar, backed up by batteries, dominate the electricity market – rising from two-thirds to some 87% in the two decades to 2050. The transformation of energy systems goes furthest and fastest in Europe.

Sustainability is not just about the energy source

Other powerful forces are also at work, shaping energy markets and determining how we power our industries, heat our buildings, and fuel our vehicles.

• Rising demand: Both economic and population growth are energy hungry. Primary energy demand increased by 5.8% in 2021, exceeding 2019 levels by 1.3%, according to BP’s Statistical Review of World Energy, 2022. Between 2019 and 2021, renewable energy increased by over 8 EJ. Where it’s available, however, cheap coal and oil will continue to fuel the developing world’s growth unless and until they get favourable access to the West’s clean energy technologies.

• Investing in efficiency: Energy efficiency will remain a significant focus of investment and innovation. Since the 1970s, the International Energy Agency estimates that 11 member states have saved 1.4bn tonnes of oil, worth $743bn. Annual investment worldwide in efficiency measures exceeds $220bn and is growing.

• Decoupling energy and growth: The hope is that reducing the energy intensity of economies can more than offset the demand from growing populations and rising income levels. The shift in consumption from goods to services, which are less energyintensive, is a major factor.

• Digitalisation: Digitalisation and smart technologies also help streamline energy use. Corporate investment in new energy technology has been snowballing in recent years. In 2022, global investment in new energy technology reached $1.38 trillion, up from $755 billion in 2021. Smart meters and grids, connectivity through the Internet of Things, and other digital solutions will continue contributing.

• Electrifying speed: The shift to electric vehicles will accelerate the electrification of energy systems. As of the end of 2022, an estimated 16.5 million electric vehicles (EVs) are on the road worldwide. This represents a significant increase from the 2.1 million EVs on the road in 2017. Several factors, including the falling cost of EVs, government incentives, and increasing consumer awareness of the environmental benefits of EVs, are driving the growth of the EV market.

However, if even the most optimistic predictions for decarbonising the energy system are achieved, along with deintensifying demand, more is needed. Carbon emissions from energy are expected to peak in the mid-2020s before beginning to take a downward trajectory. The continuing build-up in the atmosphere looks set to push global temperatures beyond the 1.5/2-degree thresholds set by the 2015 Paris Agreement. The environmental and social costs are expected to be colossal, as will the financial impacts on countries worldwide. There is a highlighted interest in how technological trends will play a significant role. So, the stakes could not be higher as we transition to decarbonised energy systems, and these technology trends play a growing and vital part.

Jamie Earl, MChem and R&D Tax Manager at Ayming, considers the impact of decarbonising the energy system

Sustainability in Joinery

The Joinery Network is a cooperative of leading suppliers to the joinery sector and supported by affiliate organisations, and a partner of BITA. Founded in 2019, they have one mission; to increase the market share of timber windows and doors installed into homes and commercial properties in the UK. Reducing carbon emissions is a core objective in achieving this. Responsibly sourced timber is widely recognised as one of the most sustainable building products, and The Joinery Network strategy of developing a network of localised manufacturers across the country is designed to minimise the overall carbon footprint of the supply chain.

To this end, The Joinery Network developed a complete timber window and door system called Lignum. As well as complying with stringent PAS 24:2016 and BS 6375 test standards, Lignum product systems are Secured by Design accredited. The Joinery Network members manufacture Lignum products under licence. To further support members, The Joinery Network has recently set up its head office and training facility based in Derby.

Manufacturing to reduce CO2

By partnering with manufacturing tooling, machinery and software specialists, The Joinery Network has developed a product system designed to reduce CO2 emissions in the manufacturing process.

Slim, high-strength frames require less timber, and the system is easier to manufacture to decrease machining time.

Precision Leitz tooling cuts the key manufacturing and finishing process time by up to 50 percent, which reduces energy consumption and increases the service life of tooling and machinery.

Product design and the reduction of whole of life CO2 emissions

The Lignum timber window and door system will also reduce whole of life CO2 emissions once installed. The finished products feature slim frames with a larger glass area to improve thermal performance. All windows are ‘A rated’ for energy with a standard double-glazed unit and can also be triple glazed to target Future Homes Standard requirements.

We partner with CPG Illbruck to provide highly insulated installation seal systems to improve energy efficiency of new build and refurbishment projects, while the Secured by Design accreditation reduces instances of break-ins requiring fewer repairs or replacements.

Ethically sourced timber

The Joinery Network members use timber from suppliers certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to supply a full chain of custody certified timber and adhere to Forests Forever policies.

Trees produce more oxygen and absorb high levels of carbon during the early years of growth. This slows as trees mature. Harvesting trees and replanting them on a sustainable basis reduces carbon levels in the atmosphere.

Sustainable components

We work closely with suppliers to source sustainable components wherever possible. Cradle to Cradle® certified Deventer weather seals are specified and tested as part of the system and BJ Waller Architectural Ironmongers has sourced high durability hardware to reduce maintenance and shorten the supply chain wherever possible.

Local supply chain

A key objective of The Joinery Network is to enable specifiers, contractors and clients to choose local suppliers, without compromising on quality or standards. By creating a network of manufacturers and tradespeople, we are supporting local supply chains to reduce the overall carbon footprint of new and replacement window and door installations.

We are also working with organisations to train operatives and improve competency levels, making it easier for manufacturers and installers to recruit new employees locally.

Long life expectancy

The lifespan of a timber window will last for 60 years when well-maintained with a typical 10-year recoating cycle, according to the British Woodworking Federation Group. Manufacturers of the Lignum window & door system operate under license, ensuring that high quality componentry and superior manufacturing methods are used to achieve superior products. Our partners Teknos and Remmers provide advanced sustainable timber coatings, vastly reducing repainting cycles.

More recycling

Timber is a highly reusable and recyclable resource. In a case study by Mace Group, 200 tonnes of waste construction timber were diverted from landfill to recycling. 79 percent of this was reused and 21 percent of it was recycled, resulting in huge a CO2 saving of 117 tonnes.

Using highly sustainable components, combined with the methodology and processes more aligned to the intensive production often used for PVCu or aluminium windows and doors, means The Joinery Network members can offer higher performing products for eco conscious consumers.

Andy Ball, founder Director at The Joinery Network and Joint MD at marketing agency Balls2 Marketing, discusses how The Joinery Network has made the manufacturing of timber windows even more sustainable

When the bough breaks....

Revolutionising ‘Cradle to Grave’ manufacturing

Our linear economy is damaging our planet and impacting our health. An article in the news in June certainly grabbed our attention with its arresting headline that humans may inhale a ‘credit cards worth of plastic every week’. The results of a study were published in the Physics of Fluids scientific journal, where they found that due to the proportion of microplastics in the atmosphere, humans were inhaling plastic.

You may not know that every time plastic is recycled, the quality goes down. New material is added to improve the quality, but even the best plastic can only be recycled 2 – 3 times before it’s useless. It is a product designed to go to landfill.

This degradation of plastic, and its introduction to our environment, is what causes the proliferation of plastic in our atmosphere, and its entry into our bodies and our food chain. Plastic

is only part of the problem; low-quality chemicals, products that can’t be fixed, and more, are all leading to a waste crisis, but these are all hallmarks of the linear economy. Things aren’t working.

The oft-mentioned alternative to the linear economy is the circular economy. The circular economy requires that we rethink our resources, and work more cooperatively with others outside our businesses to develop systems and products that use fewer chemicals, that can be reused easier, and cause a less negative impact on the world around us. It is estimated that

there is a potential $4.5tn in economic benefit accessible through the circular economy, not to mention the innumerable positive impact on places and people. However, despite the potential benefits of a circular economic model, only around 10% of our current economy is circular. Even fewer products and processes have been accredited as Cradle to Cradle.

As champions of sustainability, we have been interested in learning more about Cradle-to-Cradle design, how it can be used, what businesses are adopting it, and how it may impact the future of manufacturing.

Cradle-to-Cradle, also known as C2C certification, approaches product design that is based on the cycle of the natural world. In nature, things are born, they consume, they die, and they nourish others. In C2C design, materials are seen as nutrients circulating in a healthy, safe, life cycle. Materials would enrich environments before their components are recirculated back into the system.

Originally trademarked by McDonough Braungart, Design Chemistry Consultants, and based on a book of the same name published in 2002 by Michael Braungart and William McDonough, the certification was turned over to a non-profit, Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute, in 2012.

We encourage our members to look at the https://c2ccertified.org/ website to learn how you can incorporate these practices into your business, and perhaps even get certified.

The Cradle-to-Cradle Products Innovation Institute has an accreditation system for C2C products that meet their criteria, and their aim is to ‘power the shift to a circular economy by setting the global standard for materials, products, and systems that positively impact people and planet’.

Their certification process has over 34,000 products currently certified, from building materials to packaging. This system contrasts with the commonly heard refrain: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, or the three ‘Rs’.

SINGLE USE PLASTICS

Polyethylene, the most used plastic, hasn’t even celebrated its 100th birthday, it was only created in 1933 (by accident). Plastic bags were created in 1965, and bottles were only patented in 1973. Plastics have helped shape our world, and allowed millions to access products that would otherwise have been inaccessible to them. It’s almost impossible to envisage what our world would look like without single use plastics, but until the late 60s and early 70s, this was the norm.

LAURA WATKINS

The three Rs are often something promoted by industries as a solution to our pollution problems, but it isn’t. By reducing the products used, the same damage is being done, just over a longer period. By reusing products, their quality is reduced, and many products are now made so cheaply, that reusing is impossible. Recycling is also often impossible, with plastic and chemicals being used in all kinds of products that would have previously been all natural.

A great example of this is our shoes. Shoes used to be all leather, and naturally tanned. Now even leather shoes have

themselves, or field it out to a third party. Whereas some manufacturers would prefer to handle this themselves, setting the price and sometimes replacing the item, even if the consumer would prefer a repair. This was bought in to tackle ‘planned obsolescence’.

Planned obsolescence is especially prevalent in tech; e-waste increased by 21% between 2014 – 19, amounting to 53.6 metric tonnes. The Right to Repair movement started in the USA, and has since spread, but businesses like Apple have lobbied directly and indirectly against it.

Since the Phoebus Cartel tightened its grip on the global lightbulb industry in the 1920s, cutting the lifespan of the average lightbulb in half and increasing the price, planned obsolescence has been a strategy of many businesses. From making the cost of replacement parts and repair higher than a replacement item, to adding model and year numbers on products (think cars and iPhones) to drive desirability with consumers. There are many ways to ramp up consumerism.

This is where legislation needs to be introduced (see ‘The Cost of Sustainability’ on page 6) by government, to make sure there is a level playing field for responsible businesses.

rubber soles, and the leather is treated with cheap and harmful chemicals for tanning. This means that whereas shoes would historically break down, or could be used for other things, they now cannot. It isn’t worth it to separate out the cheap materials.

A New Way of Doing Business

The concept of Cradle-to-Cradle is completely different. A great demonstration of the system can be seen in roofing. A traditional roof absorbs heat, contributing to heating the surrounding area. It takes up space from nature, contributes to flooding as rainwater isn’t absorbed and they’re made using processes that can damage the environment. When they are replaced, the materials are thrown away. If we use roofs that are covered with soil, they will retain heat in the home, contribute less to environmental heating, there would be space provided for nature, and they would absorb more water from rainfall.

Another option for a C2C world is item libraries. We often only need to have a drill, or a sewing machine, or a floor buffer, once a year or less. Yet we still go out and purchase these items, for them to sit unused in cupboards for that one annual wielding.

Item libraries offer a different way of engaging with our environment and businesses. People can go and rent an item that doesn’t see much use, use it as they need to, and then return it. When the item becomes obsolete, it would be returned to the manufacturer, who then disassembles the item and either puts the biological items (like leather) towards compost or retains the technical components to be used in the production of new items.

Some items might sell less, but they would be made to a better quality, with better chemical treatments, and therefore be more expensive, as they would be loaned out many times. They become an investment piece, designed to last thousands of uses over a short period, rather than 10 uses over 8 years.

This would require new strategising from businesses, and a willingness to embrace change. Although we are seeing proactive movement with many businesses, the government is forcing some giants along the way.

The UK introduced a ‘Right to Repair’ law in 2021, which legislates for the consumer to be able to repair a product

Cradle to Grave is Dead, Long Live C2C

If you are thinking of making the move towards a circular, or C2C model, the Institute suggests that businesses consider a design with reference to the three-point framework to determine a product’s impact and worth. These points are Economy, Equity, and Ecology.

Economy considers whether the item is viable to produce. Without this, there is no product and no jobs. Considering this is essential in our Western economic reality. Equity addresses fairness; are your employees paid fairly for their work and ideas? Finally, Ecology considers whether there is too much waste produced. With true C2C design and manufacture, products should have a net positive impact on the environment, rather than just minimising the damage.

By producing items within this framework, tentative first steps can be taken towards creating a product that is better for customers, better for the environment, and better for your workers, all while improving your bottom line.

It’s easy to couch pieces like this in ambiguous language, and ‘suggest’ that businesses ‘look towards’ incorporating these practices. But our use of resources has tripled since 1970, and if we continue growing at the same rate, we are on track to require 1.5x of the earth’s resources annually by 2040.

By acting together as responsible business owners, and as a community of like-minded members, we can create real change that will benefit those that come after us.

C2C-CERTIFIED PRODUCTS

There is an incredible variety in C2C-certified products already available. L’Oréal and Ralph Lauren both have C2C-certified products, and there are many items for the construction industry. Aluminium profiles, scaffolding, stepladders, acoustic material, traffic signs, and steel are all available and certified. If you are C2C-certified for any of your products, please let us know as we would like to promote your product and your practices to our community.

Making Waves

Wave Dynamics Acoustic Consultants Join BITA

Wave Dynamics, an acoustic consultancy specialising in building acoustic design, planning assessments, testing, and monitoring solutions, provides services to industries that include architecture, engineering, construction, life sciences and environmental fields, have recently joined BITA. As members of the Dublin Chapter, they are looking forward to attending events and meeting other members of the BITA community.

The company is led by James Cousins and Sean Rocks. They have previously worked on projects that include Cleary’s, One Lime Street, Qualtrics, AIB HSQ, Tourism Ireland HQ, HEA PPP Bundle 2, One and Two Three North.

Managing Director James Cousins says “BITA has played a significant role in facilitating networking opportunities and expanding the client base for Wave Dynamics Acoustic Consultants. Through its platform and events, BITA has provided a valuable avenue to connect with potential clients, foster professional relationships, and showcase their expertise in the field.”

Wave Dynamics have offices in Dublin and Wexford which service Ireland and the UK.

The company’s current portfolio includes commercial office, residential, industrial, and environmental projects in Ireland, Northern Ireland, and London.

Managing Director, James Cousins says the company’s mission is to deliver high-quality acoustic engineering solutions tailored to meet its clients’ individual needs.

“We achieve this by combining our technical expertise with the latest equipment and software, and we work closely with clients to understand their specific requirements.

Whether designing a new commercial office, assessing the impact of noise on the environment, or undertaking acoustic commissioning testing, we are committed to providing effective and innovative solutions.”

“Our ethos focuses on innovation, sustainability, collaboration and knowledge,” James Cousins adds. “Our experienced consultants are committed to delivering tailored solutions. As a result, we have quickly established a foothold in the market where BITA has been instrumental in helping Wave Dynamics expand their professional network, connect with potential clients, and find new business opportunities. Through gne networking events, business directory, collaboration opportunities, referral network, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, BITA has created a supportive ecosystem that fosters growth and facilitates client acquisition for Wave Dynamics.”

Wave Dynamics’ have a wide range of services, including:

• Building acoustic design

• Acoustic testing (commercial and residential)

• Planning stage acoustic assessments

• Noise, dust and vibration monitoring

• Environmental noise assessments

• Building services noise modelling

• Industrial noise assessments

• Acoustic assessments for LEED, BREEAM and WELL

BITA HAS PLAYED A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN FACILITATING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES AND EXPANDING THE CLIENT BASE FOR OUR BUSINESS.

Green is the New Black

Why Sustainability is the Future of Business

Sustainability has become a buzzword in recent years, and with good reason. Not only does it help protect our planet, but it can also benefit businesses in many ways. Adopting sustainable business practices can help companies reduce costs, attract new customers, and improve their reputation. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of adopting sustainable business practices and how they can help businesses thrive in the long run.

One of the most significant benefits of adopting sustainable business practices is cost savings. By reducing energy and water consumption, businesses can cut their utility bills significantly. For example, using LED light bulbs and installing energy-efficient equipment can reduce energy consumption by up to 40%. This not only helps businesses save money on their utility bills, but it also helps them reduce their carbon footprint, which is becoming increasingly important to consumers.

Another way that sustainability can benefit businesses is by attracting new customers. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact that their purchases have on the environment, and they are more likely to support businesses that share their values. According to a survey by Nielsen, 73% of millennials are willing to pay more for sustainable products, and this trend is likely to continue as more consumers become aware of the environmental impact of their purchases. By adopting sustainable business practices, businesses can tap into this growing market and attract new customers who are willing to pay a premium for environmentally-friendly products and services.

Sustainability can also help businesses improve their reputation. By adopting sustainable business practices, businesses can position themselves as socially responsible and environmentally-friendly, which can improve their image in the eyes of consumers and stakeholders. This can be particularly important for businesses that operate in industries that are often criticized for their environmental impact, such as mining or oil and gas. By adopting sustainable business practices, these

companies can demonstrate that they are taking steps to reduce their impact on the environment and are committed to being responsible corporate citizens.

In addition to these benefits, adopting sustainable business practices can also help businesses comply with regulations and standards. Governments around the world are introducing regulations and standards that require businesses to reduce their environmental impact. By adopting sustainable business practices, businesses can ensure that they are in compliance with these regulations and

standards, which can help them avoid fines and other penalties. It can also help businesses position themselves as leaders in their industry and set themselves apart from their competitors.

Finally, adopting sustainable business practices can help businesses attract and

BUILDING A GREENER FUTURE

Sustainable building materials are becoming increasingly popular as architects and builders look for ways to reduce the environmental impact of their construction projects. In recent years, there have been many exciting developments in sustainable building materials, from recycled plastics to biodegradable bricks. One of the most exciting developments in sustainable building materials is the use of recycled plastic. Plastic is one of the most common pollutants in the world, and finding ways to repurpose it is essential for reducing our environmental impact. Recycled plastic can be used to create building materials like tiles, bricks, and insulation, and it’s often cheaper and more durable than traditional materials. Companies like ByFusion and Eco-Building Products are leading the way in creating innovative recycled plastic building materials.

retain employees. In today’s job market, employees are looking for more than just a paycheck. They want to work for companies that share their values and are committed to making a positive impact on society. By adopting sustainable business practices, businesses can attract employees who are passionate about sustainability and want to work for a company that shares their values. This can also help businesses retain their existing employees, as employees are more likely to stay with a company that they believe is making a positive impact on society.

In conclusion, adopting sustainable business practices can benefit businesses in many ways. From reducing costs to attracting new customers and improving their reputation, businesses that embrace sustainability can thrive in the long run. As consumers become more aware of the impact of their purchases on the environment, businesses that are committed to sustainability will have a competitive advantage over those that are not. By adopting sustainable business practices, businesses can position

themselves as socially responsible and environmentally-friendly, which can help them attract new customers, comply with regulations and standards, and attract and retain employees.

Thanks for reading so far, I now have a question for you – could you tell that this was written by an AI – Chat GPT? If you are unfamiliar with this platform, it’s an artificial intelligence that is free to use and accessible to everyone with an internet connection. It’s currently in beta testing phase, and it’s learning how to interact with people, and to craft ever-more realistic responses. Even the images used on this page were entirely created by a generative AI.

For this article, I told the platform that I publish a magazine, and I would like it to write an article for me to see if our readers can tell if it was written by an AI. I asked for an article 1,000 – 1,200 words long, about the benefits of sustainable

businesses practices, for businesses. I also said that it should assume that the audience would be familiar with the subject matter.

What it delivered took around 3 minutes, and although it comes in around 50% shorter than I’d asked for – 606 words instead of 1,000 – 1,200. As a result, I asked for a supplemental short piece that is featured in the box out –Building a Greener Future. Strangely this took about 10 minutes. Both pieces offer an amazing facsimile of something written by a person. The implications are far reaching and explain why Chat GPT is having a big impact on work, education, and employment. Read more on page 32.

EMPLOYEES ARE LOOKING FOR MORE THAN JUST A PAYCHECK.

Embracing the Disruption

The Impact of AI on Businesses and Jobs

A UK REPORT PUBLISHED IN 2021 FOUND THAT THE IMPACT OF AI ON UK EMPLOYMENT LEVELS WOULD BE NEUTRAL.

In the fast-paced digital era, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force, revolutionising industries, but forcing people to contemplate its impact on business and the labour market in the long-term. While AI presents exciting opportunities for efficiency, productivity, and innovation, it raises concerns about job displacement and other ethical considerations.

These new technologies, such as machine learning algorithms and automation, enable businesses to streamline processes, automate repetitive tasks, and improve efficiency. This can free up time for employees to do more creative tasks or work on complex projects for the benefit of the business. But as AI automates certain tasks and processes, there is a legitimate concern about job displacement.

Roles that are repetitive and routine in nature, such as data entry or assembly line work, may become obsolete. This could potentially lead to unemployment and necessitate the reskilling and upskilling of workers to adapt to new roles. Provided that the correct systems are in place, this could result in a happier and more fulfilled labour market. Reskilling and upskilling programs will become imperative to bridge

the skills gap and ensure employability in the AI-driven landscape.

The growth of AI will also create new niche fields for employees that have been displaced by its arrival. Consider AI chatbots. Although they have the capacity to assist with simple tasks and pointing people to the information they need, anyone who has tried to accomplish something more challenging will know that you need to request a support agent to achieve anything. The AI handles the easy, simple requests, and a person is on hand to deal with the more complex enquiries.

Starting a Riot

Attention-grabbing headlines feed into fears that large swathes of the labour market will soon be obsolete, and unemployment will skyrocket. In May, the Center for AI Safety (CAIS) released a rather serious statement: “Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societalscale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war.” Signed by executives from OpenAI and DeepMind, Turing Award winners, and other AI researchers, they certainly garnered a lot of attention. However, we should question why

people who are working to bring about AI would release this statement. Is it possible they were trying to raise the profile of their work? It seems strange that the people pushing and investing money in a technology would want everyone aware that it could kill us all. This comes hot on the heels of a more detailed and explicit warning from ‘Chief Twit’ Elon Musk, who months earlier warned that we should pause the development of anything more advanced than GPT-4.

As quoted in ARS Technica, Dr. Sasha Luccioni, a machinelearning research scientist, likens the new CAIS letter to sleight of hand: “First of all, mentioning the hypothetical existential risk of AI in the same breath as very tangible risks like pandemics and climate change, which are very fresh and visceral for the public, gives it more credibility,” she says. “It’s also misdirection, attracting public attention to one thing (future risks) so they don’t think of another (tangible current risks like bias, legal issues and consent).”

Despite alarm bells ringing inside the AI camp, research on the impact of AI to the UK labour market, commissioned by the UK government, found that the impact would not be great.

Published in 2021, the report found that over the next 5 years, 7% of jobs would be at risk due to AI, which rose to 30% after 20 years. However, it also reported that there would be lots of job creation related to AI productivity and economic growth. Overall, the report found that the impact of AI on UK employment levels would be neutral.

All Roads lead to Godwin (‘s Law)

Another concern that keeps surfacing about AI, is the ethical considerations. Issues like data privacy, bias in algorithms, and the responsible use of AI must be addressed to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability. Businesses must establish guidelines and frameworks to mitigate these risks and uphold ethical standards.

Chatbot Tay, by Microsoft, was taken offline after only 48 hours when it started praising Adolf Hitler; an extreme example. More striking was the experience of Joy Buolamwini, who discovered that the facial recognition algorithms used in her lab in MIT didn’t recognise her, or any other black face. It had been trained by white creators who only thought to use white faces when developing it.

Additional serious ethical questions have been raised, as examples have found AI robots trained on billions of images

As the Luddites found out in the 19th Century, there really is no standing against progress, no matter our concerns and fears about the robots coming for our jobs. If we switch to a smarter way of working, ensure that people can access training and support, and revolutionise what work means, AI could give us more time and freedom from our desks.

identified women as homemakers, and ethnic minority people as janitors or criminals. These bots are trained on input, including information online and conversations with users.

To make sure that AI works for everyone, we need to ensure that our own biases and deliberate bad actors aren’t hobbling AI almost before it’s started.

Don’t Panic (and always remember your towel)

As any future traveller knows, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Embracing AI technologies offers businesses opportunities for improved efficiency, enhanced customer experience, data-driven insights, and innovation. However, the disruptive nature of AI raises concerns about job displacement, ethical considerations, and the need for a transformed workforce. Striking a balance between leveraging the benefits of AI and addressing its challenges is crucial for businesses and workers to thrive in the era of intelligent automation.

As businesses navigate the AI revolution, proactive measures must be taken to reskill and upskill the workforce, establish ethical guidelines, and foster a collaborative environment. By embracing the potential of AI while addressing its challenges, businesses can position themselves for success in the era of intelligent automation. With thoughtful planning, continuous learning, and a human-centric approach, we can harness the power of AI to drive innovation, create new opportunities, and shape a future where humans and machines work together harmoniously to achieve transformative outcomes –both in and out of the workplace.

DIANE BIRCH

Benefitting from AI with Prosthetic Assistance

The Landscape in 2023

With the ongoing uncertainty everyone around the world is facing right now, more than ever businesses must make strategic, cost-effective decisions to ensure they are at the forefront of the minds of clients.

In a world where consumers rely on extensive research and the opinions of others before making a purchase, this means your ‘brand’ identity is everything. Having worked in the demanding world of motorsport for the past two decades, at the highest levels in Formula 1, Formula E and the Le Mans 24 Hours, I believe some of the principals used by teams should be adopted to maintain a competitive edge.

Even if you have a successful business, you simply can’t rest on your laurels. The world is constantly changing; customers demand more digital engagement and if your competitors keep innovating then you must too. Having the agility to adapt quickly to change is paramount. This is where content marketing becomes so important because it answers questions, helps you build trust, develop

relationships, improve conversations, and generate leads. The landscape for businesses has changed, customers expect high-quality, consistent content and first-class service. Time stops for no one. Which is why Formula 1 is such a benchmark in the ever-changing world we now all find ourselves in.

The benefits are clear

• Your audience will stay loyal longer

• You’ll have better traction on social media (the new word of mouth)

• Your customers will trust you

• Original content can improve conversations

• Your business will become more visible thanks to SEO

• Great content can position your company as an authority in your industry

• You’ll save money on your marketing strategy.

The key to success in F1 is bringing in new and diverse voices and ideas. Teams in F1 are hyper focused on performance. They are aligned and unified around how they are going to improve after every session on track, it requires a set of behaviours that do not come naturally to people. You must be incredibly open and honest about what you’re not getting right. Being a motorsport broadcaster for 20 years I have figured out how to build a rapport, look at both sides of

a discussion, remain objective, and deliver announcements of all kinds of news, all whilst remaining calm and collected. You have to cope with a director talking to you as you are talking to someone else, a producer counting you to a break. And if you are in the middle of an interview, you must wrap it up when the count gets to zero, otherwise you will be cut off mid flow. So why is this experience relevant in today’s landscape? It is important because it can take the burden off your shoulders. Handing your project over to an expert will allow you to focus on other aspects of your business and provide peace of mind that the creative work is being handled properly.

I set up Binks Media in 2012 to offer cost effective tailored bespoke innovative customer focused deliverables, as opposed to generic platform, templated corporate contact services to clients. Creative communications where experience is everything. Content marketing is a key facet of the brand building strategy of any business, delivering engaging information, messaging, imagery and video to partners, customers and key stakeholders. Podcasts, newsletters, website content and a strong and consistent social media presence are all prime ways of attracting people to a company and its brand, and thus helping to generate growth and market presence. In short, a winning and rewarding solution.

Diana Binks of Binks Media discusses marketing in 2023

Community Update: Irish Chapters

March was an incredibly busy month for our Irish Chapters, with two networking lunches and a breakfast being held in just one month! We catch up with the chairs of the Irish Chapters to talk about their areas, their plans, and why businesses should be getting involved with BITA events...

Cork is the second-largest city in Ireland and the economic hub of the South-West region. We have recently hosted our networking lunch in the Imperial Hotel, where sustainable development goals, sustainable enterprise, and the funding opportunities available were discussed. We would like to thank Kerry London and ConsortiaCo for sponsoring the event. The city is home to several top universities and research institutions, which provide a skilled workforce for businesses. Companies such

I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO GROWING THE CORK CHAPTER

as Apple and Amazon have been attracted to Cork partly because of the availability of a highly trained workforce as well as the favourable business environment for entrepreneurs, including low taxation rates and a supportive business network.

Following a year of stewardship by Pat Kierans, I am delighted to be taking over as the new Chapter Chair of BITA Cork. We will continue to host regular networking evenings and have also just hosted a BITAx event in Cork. Cork has a diverse economy meaning businesspeople from many sectors attend our events making them fantastic places to build new connections. People from sectors, including technology, life sciences, food and beverage, tourism and maritime, attend our events making them fantastic places to build new connections.

CorkStephen Wilson Downey on Cork as an attractive business destination

Left: BITA President, previous Cork Chapter Chair, Kerry London and ConsortiaCo at the Cork Lunch, March 2023

Ireland West

Tara and Deirdre are looking outside of Galway for the Ireland West Chapter

With its favourable tax environment, competitive business costs, skilled labour force and access to the European market, Ireland is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for businesses looking to expand their operations.

As Ireland West chapter chairs, Deirdre Hynes and I hosted our first Galway Lunch which proved to be a successful business networking event at The Hardiman Hotel, to support our members and the chapter growth for 2023. This was sponsored by Henry Hathaway Solicitors and included a panel discussion from outstanding speakers. Following the lunch, we are now working to introduce several social networking events and opportunities for members of the business community to connect and work together across the year.

The first of these events, held in May was a business breakfast. This was

Dublin

Billy Griffin and the rise of BITA Dublin

Not only is Dublin the largest City and the capital of Ireland, but it also has a vibrant and diverse business ecosystem making it the perfect city to network. The Irish economy is expanding rapidly, Ireland’s population has expanded by over 300,000 people since 2019 and the need for housing and related resources to serve this growing population is only going to increase.

We continue to see increases in projects across both IT and energy infrastructure along with an increase in tech businesses. The construction sector is projecting increases of over 30k housing units each year.

Following the huge success of our first networking breakfasts this year, kindly sponsored by Gas Networks Ireland and Ashview Consultants Ltd, we will be having two more breakfast networking events this year and will assist BITA members who are not regular commuters to the UK, to get to know the other members of Dublin BITA and to create opportunities to do more

incredibly successful and will be the first of many. We welcomed over 40 people from businesses across Galway and the west of Ireland who were all keen to meet new people and expand their network.

We are also now laying plans for our next lunch in September which will be held in Westport, so keep an eye on the events page of the BITA website so you don’t miss out!

business within the Chapter. We have been working with the British Embassy in Dublin to increase ties between both nations and are excited to be co-hosting an event with them at the British Ambassador’s Residence in September. In addition, we have already confirmed the BITA Christmas lunch will be in Dublin again this year! 1st December at the InterContinental Hotel; I hope you will join and help make it the wonderful event it always is.

Our Dublin chapter members have also been attending our Online Networking events, which are now BITA-wide every Friday morning from 8am, encouraging a greater connection between the UK and Irish industries.

BITA Dublin is busier than ever, and we love seeing new faces, so if you would like to attend one of our breakfasts or lunches, please get in touch with scarlett@bita.ie or check the BITA website.

Networking Lunch at the Hardiman, Galway, March 2023

Chapter Chair and Gas Networks at the Dublin Breakfast at the Talbot Hotel, March 2023

Celebrating Northern Ireland

Continuing from the success of BITA’s launch in Belfast earlier this year, we were thrilled to celebrate the first event of the Northern Ireland Chapter in March at AMPM Belfast. Led by Chapter Chair, Robin Nesbitt, the event brought together businesses from across Northern Ireland, Ireland, the Isle of Man, and the UK for an evening of great company, insightful conversation, and a shared goal of helping each other.

Northern Ireland is well known for its stunning landscapes and friendly people, but it’s also gaining a deserved recognition for its thriving business scene. The region has a diverse range of opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to prosper, with an emphasis on the manufacturing, engineering, and food and drink sectors and the emergence of some world-beating technology start-ups. Most people don’t know that Belfast is now the busiest cruise ship port in the UK and Ireland, testament to the growth in tourism.

Northern Ireland’s manufacturing industry has long been a cornerstone of the region’s economy, offering a wealth of expertise and skilled talent. Notable examples of globally recognised brands that have established themselves in Northern Ireland’s manufacturing sector include; Almac Group, Randox, and Wrightbus. It is the global centre of excellence and innovation for mobile materials handling equipment, exporting to practically every country in the world.

The technology industry in Northern Ireland is also on the rise, with over 1,200 tech companies now operating in the region. Companies like Kainos, First Derivatives and Statsports are experiencing rapid growth, and the sector now employs over 35,000 people in the province. Additionally, the industry has a strong entrepreneur community ecosystem, with organisations like Catalyst, Digital DNA, Ormeau Baths, Raise Ventures, Startacus, and Women in Business providing support and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and start-ups. Northern Ireland is a globally recognised innovator, source of talent for cyber security and is

the primary focus for US businesses to establish development centres. Thanks to the global recognition and adaptability of our two universities in Belfast, Ulster and Queen’s, who are the primary reason why one of the largest conferences for cyber security, CYBERUK, happened in Belfast recently.

The tourism industry in Northern Ireland has also been thriving in recent years, with the success of Game of Thrones contributing significantly. The Northern Ireland Assembly reported that the tourism industry now supports over 65,000 jobs and generates over £2 billion in revenue annually. It has become a go-to destination for filming new shows and movies, with recent successes such as Derry Girls, Hope Street, Line of Duty, The Lost City, and The Northman. In 2023, the Northern Ireland short film, “An Irish Goodbye,” won an Academy Award at the Oscars in Los Angeles.

International companies such as Allstate, Capita, Citi, Firstsource, Fujitsu, Liberty IT, and Terex have established operations in Northern Ireland, attracted by the supportive business environment and skilled workforce. Government supported initiatives from Invest Northern Ireland provide financial and talent development support and advice to businesses looking to invest in the region.

Business professionals looking to tap into the full potential of Northern Ireland’s business scene can join the new BITA Business Club NI. It offers

opportunities for networking, mentorship, and business support, creating a community of entrepreneurs and established businesses alike.

Northern Ireland is an excellent destination for entrepreneurs and established businesses seeking to expand their operations. With its vibrant manufacturing, start-up, tech, and tourism sectors, as well as a supportive business environment and a highly skilled workforce, Northern Ireland provides a multitude of opportunities for companies to flourish.

We would like to invite interested parties to reach out to our board members in the region - Robin Nesbitt (Chair), Barry Clarke, Martin Murtagh, and Shirley Palmer, to explore potential collaborations, membership opportunities, and the possibility of sponsoring our events. We believe that by joining our community, you can tap into the full potential of Northern Ireland’s thriving business scene and gain access to the resources and support needed to achieve your goals.

Lastly, prepare to be captivated by the next edition of NetWorks Magazine, as it showcases an exhilarating exclusive feature on Northern Ireland that is not to be overlooked!

Hearing from Robin Nesbitt, Chapter Chair of the Northern Ireland Chapter

NORTHERN IRELAND IS AN EXCELLENT DESTINATION FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES.

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Great plans for the South

The south is an incredibly active area in BITA, and all chapters are eagerly planning events from evening socials to breakfasts and lunches. Connecting businesses and people throughout the UK and further afield, it’s our purpose to encourage people to trade with each other across borders and between nations. And of course, the South is ripe with opportunity. From exciting new developments in Kent to business opportunities in the Southwest and the regeneration projects in Greater London, there’s lots to offer members that are based or plan to grow, into this area.

KentCarly Northwood, Chapter Chair of Kent

There are lots of exciting new projects happening across the historic county of Kent, and we are looking forward to the opportunities that they will provide.

In the south of the county, Dover has recently seen the announcement of a £100m investment to transform The Citadel, a Napoleonic fort, into ‘The Little City’. The investment will include 54 buildings over 33 acres that be turned into an innovation hub. In addition, there will also be sports facilities developed, with a goal to provide space for arts, culture, and education. The old government Casemates building is being transformed into a recording studio, bar, gallery, and market, and designs are being developed for a one-of-a-kind hotel. Find out more about this incredible development www.thecitadel.co.uk where you will

also find details of public tours of the area. In addition, there are also plans underway to fulfil the council’s wider strategy of building over 17k homes across the Margate area. This will not only create jobs and opportunities for local businesses but also help towards alleviating the serious housing shortage in the area.

At BITA Kent, we are forging relationships with local stakeholders and are hosting regular breakfast networking meetings where we welcome 60 guests, as well as social networking evenings. With business leaders from across Kent attending, there are lots of opportunities available.

But onto the important news, Folkestone’s first Greggs will be opening soon. Great news for anyone craving a steak bake!

THERE HAS BEEN A £100M INVESTMENT ANNOUNCED TO REDEVELOP A NAPOLEONIC FOR IN DOVER, INTO AN INCREDIBLE AND DIVERSE MIXED-USE ‘LITTLE CITY’.

Kent Networking Breakfast at the Orangery, February 2023

East Anglia

Luke Piper, Chapter Chair of East Anglia

East Anglia has a diverse and dynamic economy that includes sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, life sciences, digital and creative industries, tourism, and renewable energy.

Covering Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk, the area’s proximity to London and other major cities also provides access to a large pool of resources and customers. With one of only eight freeports in the UK that will receive £25m in government funding towards improved infrastructure, Freeport East has three main development sites at the Port of Felixstowe, Harwich International Port, and Gateway 14 near Stowmarket.

A green energy hub is planned for Harwich to serve sectors including offshore wind. All the developments have an emphasis on innovation, skills development, and net zero, as well as acting as anchors for wider economic impact.

Chief Executive Steve Beel said: “We are maximising the opportunities of leaving the European Union to drive growth and throw our doors open to trade with the world.”

I am excited about the future of our East Anglia chapter and look forward to hosting our first lunch towards the end of the year.

Southwest

Orla O’Leary, District Chair of the Southwest

Our Southwest chapter covers a broad area, and the Board has decided that it would be a good idea to introduce micro chapters in Bath, Bristol, and Cornwall, as well as Exeter. The difference between these and a normal chapter is that there will still be centrally organised larger events in Exeter but each micro chapter, with its own smaller Board, will host its own targeted events and the Board Members will also sit on the main Exeter Board.

This decision has re-invigorated the South West region. Following an incredibly successful event at the Bath Racecourse, I am excited to report that over the next few months, we will be expanding our social networking evenings, and hosting a

networking lunch at the beautiful Alverton Hotel in Cornwall. I would like to thank the boards for their incredible hard work.

We were delighted to see earlier this year in a study from Business Financed, that Bath and North-East Somerset were ranked as the best location in the UK for micro businesses. In fact, another area in the Southwest, Exeter, came 4th, and Cheltenham, just up the road, was 3rd.

I can only conclude that there must be something in the water! This makes our area an excellent place for entrepreneurs, with lots of support available from the local governments.

In addition, we are planning to form our own BITAx chapter for young entrepreneurs. Combined with our emphasis on hospitality, the South-West area of BITA is indeed unique!

Social Networking at Station Tavern, May 2023

Cornwall Launch, The Old Ale House, April 2023

Surrey

Shane Manogue, Chapter Chair of Surrey

The only way I know how to do things is both feet first; complete commitment. I believe that it’s best to spend your energy on something you are truly passionate about and I am passionate about BITA!

I started as a member with W12 years ago and managed to persuade the team at HQ that forming a Surrey chapter would be a great idea and I am now honoured to be the Chair! Creating a chapter from scratch sounded like a good idea, I know the businesses in Surrey would be open to it and have lots of experience and skill to bring to the table, it’s been hard work, but we are now reaping the rewards with good attendance at our social networking and new bi-monthly breakfast events.

I believe in collaboration, and with London and Kent being so close decided to arrange a Crazy Golf night in Swingers, in London. It was fantastic to get together with like-minded people throughout the region who were as enthusiastic as I am to make a difference in the world of business!

I have great plans for Surrey and will continue to represent BITA at events to grow our membership and increase engagement. Surrey is an amazing place to do business –and to live. Close to London, with beautiful nature, as well as thriving business districts.

The capital is still a bustling city despite some changes to the working patterns of commuters and residents and with London boroughs being awarded more than £63 million in funding to make streets healthier, and safer, and make transport

improvements, it can only get better. London still celebrates its reputation for being a hub of innovation and a probusiness environment that supports entrepreneurship and benefits from a large pool of skilled and diverse talent.

The London chapter will continue to host the ever-popular Construction Networking Lunch along with our popular monthly social networking evenings which have now been moved to the second Wednesday of every month at our London home of The Rising Sun.

We also continue to host the weekly Friday morning online networking events which welcome members from across the UK and regularly attract upwards of 40 guests. These events provide the opportunity to connect with organisations that have either nationwide interests or welcome connections from other locations than their local chapter.

Bridie Cunningham, Chapter Chair of London

London

Surrey Networking Breakfast, The Waterhouse Café, May 2023

Construction Networking Lunch at the Royal Horseguards, April 2023

Planning for Growth

BITA is expanding, with new chapters launching across the UK and Ireland, and new Ambassadors being appointed across the globe. To assist with this growth, BITA has appointed a panel of trustees who will be sharing their experience, expertise, and advice with an aim to build an organisation that continues to benefit members and stakeholders.

As a non-profit networking organisation working on behalf of members to facilitate trade between the UK, Ireland, and further afield, we want to focus on the connectivity we can drive between business leaders and provide a channel for introductions to business communities around the world.

To this end, we are focusing on making connections between our members, hosting small focus lunches, intimate social events, and roundtable discussions focusing on pressing industry issues.

Until now, the business has been under the watchful eyes of President and Founder Paul Whitnell and Executive Director Diane Birch, with help from our Non-Executive Directors. But exponential growth requires additional help, and we are proud to announce the inspiring business leaders who are joining BITA as Trustees.

“I have been amazed at the supportive environment our members have helped form,” says BITA President Paul Whitnell. “It’s this engagement that has fuelled our growth and we now want to ensure we are governed by a team of strategic leaders who will help us to continue to support our members to trade successfully and responsibly.”

Aidan Scollard, Jacqueline O’Donovan, Chris Phillips, and Michael Roddy will be lending their skills to aid in the successful growth of BITA, and to ensure the organisation continues to embody the values of ‘Integrity, Passion, and Delivery’.

Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE is the Managing Director of O’Donovan Waste Disposal Ltd, and the winner of numerous business leadership and innovation awards. She says; “I am delighted to be invited to join the new BITA Board of Trustees at such an exciting time of growth and expansion globally. As BITA, already a force to be reckoned with, develops further, it is imperative that the board brings strategic direction, integrity and leadership to ensure that members have complete confidence in the governance and guidance that we deliver as trustees and an organisation.”

Chris Phillips is the Chairman of Triplepoint Social Housing, Centaurea Investments Ltd, and Londonnewcastle as well as the Director of Symmetry Housing.

Aidan Scollard is based in Dublin and is a Partner at the international auditing and tax advisory firm Roberts Nathan. “I have been involved with BITA for several years and most recently as Chair of the Dublin board.” Explains Aidan; “I look forward to working with the group that makes up the board of trustees to help drive further the growth and development of BITA and ensure long-term goals are delivered for

the benefit of all members, no matter what size or sector their businesses are involved in and to make a positive impact in their communities.”

Michael Roddy is the Managing Director of SigmaRoc PLC, Precast Products Group, Johnston Quarry Group, GD Harries & Sons Ltd, and CCP Building Products Ltd.

These business leaders will be bringing a wide range of skills and experience to their roles as Trustees, and we are looking forward to benefitting from their guidance. As an organisation, we are careful not to grow for the sake of growth. Instead, we consider where and how we can best benefit our member businesses and the wider business community. Our mission to ‘help more people and influence further, as a collective’ guides our decisions, as our new board of Trustees will also guide us.

You can see more about the BITA team on the website, by clicking on ‘About Us’. You’ll see a page dedicated to our team in head office, our Patrons, our Non-Executive Directors, and our new board of Trustees.

https://bita.ie/about-us/trustees/

Following incredible work leading the BITAx board for the last couple of years, we are excited to announce that Will Polston is joining our board of Non-Executive Directors. We are looking forward to working with him and benefitting from his experience, outlook, and perspective on how we can better benefit our members.

OUR NEW BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Left to right: Aidan Scollard, Jacqueline O’Donovan, Chris Phillips, Michael Roddy

The Northern Powerhouse

The government developed the idea of the Northern Powerhouse as boosting the local economy by investing in skills, innovation, transport and culture. This is something at BITA that we want to get behind and champion, to which end we have set up chapters across the North.

We have been working closely with business leaders in Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds to find out what is important to them, how we can offer support,

and how we can facilitate trade and growth between our members in the North and elsewhere. We are also including the Isle of Man in our version of the Northern Powerhouse, due to their close ties with Liverpool and the UK, and the fertile ground they offer for new businesses. There are incredible and increasing opportunities available in these chapters, and our chapter chairs are here to tell you more about what they are doing.

Isle of Man

Our first event on the Isle of Man this year started with what has been dubbed a ‘life changing’ two-day event on the 25th and 26th of April where the Speed of Sight charity along with Sight Matters hosted an event to provide blind, visually impaired, and disabled children and adults the opportunity of a lifetime to experience the thrill of driving at Jurby Racetrack. Over 40 people attended across the two days with great coverage seen across local radio and the BBC about the impact the event had.

This was then followed by our Networking Lunch on the 27th of April,

held at The Comis Hotel, where Speed of sight CEO, Mike Newman shared his inspiring story which now has him holding nine world records for speed on both land and sea.

The Isle of Man offers a supportive ecosystem for people looking to start, grow or relocate their business. Myself, and the board of BITA Isle of Man will be working closely with our partners and sponsors the Department for Enterprise to support businesses on the island and across the UK and Ireland to create further opportunities across the year to grow together.

Brendon Kenny, Chair of the Isle of Man Chapter

THROUGH OUR ACTIONS AND INTERACTIONS WITH OTHERS WE CAN MAKE A REAL POSITIVE DIFFERENCE.

Isle of Man Networking Lunch, Comis Hotel, April 2023

Sarah McCartney, Regional Director of the Northern Chapters

Manchester is a major economic hub in the UK, with a diverse range of industries and sectors driving growth and employment opportunities. Manchester has a thriving startup and entrepreneurial culture, with a growing ecosystem of support services, networking events, and funding opportunities available to innovative new ventures.

Earlier this year we held a successful networking lunch, providing an opportunity for business showcase in our ‘marketplace’ area ahead of a great lunch with speakers, including Mike Blackburn from Marketing Manchester and Mike Newman, World Record Holder and Founder of Speed of Sight.

The city is home to some of the UK’s largest companies, including major players in construction, finance, professional services, media, and technology and our Manchester board is currently expanding to support businesses across these sectors. We are looking forward to hosting a mix of sector specific

events throughout the rest of the year, along with a main lunch which will be held in October.

In addition to the networking lunch events, we continue to host our monthly social networking evenings at The Clayton Hotel which continues to increase in the number of attendees.

Sarah McCartney, Regional Director of the Northern Chapters

Liverpool is a diverse and vibrant City with lots of opportunities for businesses to grow. It has a positive and supportive environment for entrepreneurs and startups, with various schemes like the Merseyside Special Investment Fund and Liverpool City Region’s

Leeds

Ches Moulton, Chair of the Leeds Chapter

Did you know that Leeds now boasts the second-largest economy in the UK after London, making it one of the most exciting property hotspots in the country.

The recently completed £161 million revamp of Leeds City Station has already improved the reliability of this major northern transport hub. Another major regeneration project due to begin construction is Lisbon Square. After

Growth Platform providing funding and support to companies. The city is also home to several prestigious universities and colleges, producing highly skilled graduates in different sectors.

Liverpool’s vibrant city life, buzzing nightlife, and excellent cultural scene

almost a decade of planning, this £270 million development is finally on its way and will bring new residential apartments, hotel facilities, and mixed-use office space to Leeds City Centre.

Leeds City Council has secured £18.6 million from the ‘Getting Building’ fund, which will be spent on three exciting regeneration projects. Around £8 million is set to be spent on transforming City Park in the South Bank, while £7.4 million will redevelop Temple Green Park and Ride. A further £2.6 million will be spent on renovating older properties in the Holbeck area.

As the board and I continue to work together to build our membership

make it attractive for people to live, work, and play. The city is home to various festivals and events throughout the year, including hosting the Eurovision Song contest 2023 to world renowned success earlier this year.

I am continuing to host our popular lunches and the monthly social networking evenings at Gaucho and am organising a construction and propertyfocused event later in the year.

in Leeds, we are looking forward to adding some sector specific lunches so that together we can provide additional support, industry insight and relevant connectivity.

Networking Lunch at the Edwardian in February 2023

Liverpool Networking Lunch at Anfield, February 2023

Social Networking at Banyan Bar and Kitchen, May 2023 (image credit Pete Alderson Photography)

The Future is Bright

Taking the next steps for BITAx

BITAx was founded to form the legacy for BITA Intl and educate young people on the importance of human and personal relationships. It’s an incredible place for under 35s to start networking and grow their contacts, while getting exposure to lots of different industries.

BITAx has members from construction, tech, and media and from sole entrepreneurs to young professionals working in established businesses. The aims of BITAx is to provide the experience, expertise, and education to members to help them on their professional journeys.

We encourage all BITA members to engage with BITAx, and to either invite your younger staff to join the events or attend yourself in more of a mentoring capacity! Remember, if you are a BITA member, all your staff are too, and they are welcome at any of our events. Members of BITAx include aspirational employees of our member companies who are given exposure to experiences and opportunities that they would not otherwise receive.

Will Polston has led the BITAx board for the past year, growing membership and increasing events, we have been incredibly lucky to have had his leadership. He has now stepped down as chair to join our Non-Executive Board where he will be sharing his skills and expertise and helping BITA with our growth.

We are now welcoming James Rae, Project Specification Manager at Roca, as the new Chapter Chair of BITA. He is planning more events, including welcoming BITA members at the stunning Roca Gallery in West London on the 19th July.

‘Since I have been involved in BITAx it has allowed me to increase the size of my network outside of my personal social group and direct industry/sector, through forming genuine relationships with ambitious, diverse, and interesting members/ businesses.’ Says James.

‘We take for granted when we are young the amount of people we meet every day through Apprenticeships, University,

School/College. So having a platform which allows us to continue this level of social interaction, whilst meeting more senior mentors along the way, will and currently is having an invaluable impact on our professional careers. I’d encourage anyone reading this who either has someone under the age of 35 in their business or a friend/family member who is ambitious and open minded to get in touch.

‘It’s an honour to be chairman and grow this community along with our fantastic board members. The future is bright.’

This is especially true right now, as we are currently expanding BITAx and have representatives in Ireland West, Cork, and Manchester. The Cork arm of BITAx has even hosted their first networking evening. We are looking forward to seeing these areas grow.

Over the next few months BITA will be focusing on the labour and skills shortage that is facing many industries, including construction and hospitality. We will be consulting with BITAx members to learn what challenges they are facing, how this may be exacerbating the problem, and what employers can do to help.

We recommend that all BITA members, and especially those in BITAx, take a look at the mentor and specialist area on the BITA website. There is a wealth of knowledge and experience from a host of our members that are available, and there to be used, so get in touch with them!

There is lots of support within BITA that our members can access. Check out page 18, for information on some incredible training opportunities available through Crown Vocational Training.

Menopause 101

Discussing menopause with men has always been a bit of a taboo topic; however, it’s time to dispel the myths and for you to learn more!

Menopause can be difficult for women, and men around them often feel left out of the loop. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of menopause, and hope that by reading this, you’ll feel more informed.

What is menopause?

Menopause is the natural, gradual process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It’s not an illness or a health condition. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 but can happen sooner or later in some women.

What happens?

As menopause approaches, the ovaries begin to produce less oestrogen. This process is called perimenopause, and it can last for several years. Oestrogen levels fluctuate during this time, which can cause irregular periods. Eventually, the ovaries stop releasing eggs, and periods become less frequent, and eventually stop.

The hormone rollercoaster

During menopause, the sex hormones oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone decrease. These can cause numerous symptoms - some women will sail through

A Man’s Guide to the Mysteries of Menopause

menopause with no signs, some with a few and some feel like they’ve been hit by a freight train!

Enemies of menopause

Eating an unhealthy diet, alcohol, and caffeine can aggravate symptoms. Stress can worsen menopausal symptoms and make them more challenging to manage. It can also lead to weight gain, further contributing to menopausal symptoms. Lack of sleep - Getting enough rest is essential for managing menopause symptoms. Unfortunately, many women find it difficult to get a good night’s sleep during menopause because of night sweats.

What can you do to help?

If your significant other or a work colleague is going through menopause, there are several things you can do to help.

Try to be understanding and patient. Menopause can be a difficult time for women, and they may not always be able to control their moods or symptoms.

Be a good listener. Let them know you’re there for them and are happy to listen if they need to talk.

Offer practical help where you can. For your partner, this might mean doing the food shopping or cooking dinner on nights when they’re feeling particularly exhausted.

Also, it’s essential to discuss the different options they could try to help reduce or alleviate the symptoms, such as:

• Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthier diet and exercising more

• Supplements

• See the GP or a menopause specialist for advice

• HRT or bioidentical/body-identical hormones. HRT gets a bad rap, but the pros outweigh the cons.

About Rachel Williams

I’m very much used to talking about menopause to both women and men to break down the mysteriousness and taboos of this topic. If you want to learn more about my ‘Menopause 101’ talks for your employees, please contact rachel@zestlifestyle.com

However, a little bit of advice… Don’t try and manage your partner’s menopause - you may not get the desired reaction!

What you can do as an employer or direct report

As an employer, you should support menopausal women as part of a holistic approach to employee health and wellbeing. Just like pregnancy, it is an occupational health issue. Here are some useful resources for you to tap into so that you understand more and what you can do to help:

• The CIPD www.cipd.co.uk

• Faculty of Occupational Medicine www.fom.ac.uk

• Menopause information and a template policy for your workplace, BITA HR Hub: https://bita.ie/ member-support/hr-hub.html

Is there a male version of menopause?

Yes, there is! It’s called andropause. It is a time when men’s bodies begin to produce less testosterone. This can happen gradually over several years, and symptoms may not appear until later in life. Andropause can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Fatigue

• Reduced sex drive

• Erectile dysfunction

• Muscle weakness

• Depression

Andropause is a natural part of ageing and is not considered a medical condition. However, some men may experience more severe symptoms that can interfere with their quality of life.

What can you do to ease the symptoms of andropause?

There are several things you can do including:

• Exercising regularly

• Eating a healthy diet

• Getting enough sleep

• Reducing stress

• Quitting smoking

• Limiting alcohol intake

If you are experiencing severe symptoms of andropause, talk to your doctor about hormone therapy. This treatment can help alleviate the symptoms of andropause and improve your quality of life.

Networking at Full Speed

James Halligan on how BITA has helped a serial entrepreneur gain business

Imet Paul Whitnell shortly after he arrived in the UK in 2008 – I leaned over in a restaurant and told him he was being too loud and to shut up. This famous beginning led to a fantastic relationship as both businesspeople and friends!

I have been involved with BITA since its inception, initially as the Vice President, and then as a supporter and member. I’ve managed lots of different industries; payroll, recruitment, a wine bar, nightclubs; I love business and I love a challenge and I’m never happier than when strategizing and growing a business. Well, except when I can strategize and grow a business in a well-appointed bar with some friends!

Over the years I have worked with many prestigious companies, Fortnum & Mason, Cath Kidston, Jeremy Clarkson, and the BBC to name a few.

This isn’t to say that I’ve always been successful with my ventures! The wine bar was a disaster, and if I had known Drew Montague then he could have perhaps advised on the wine I should stock. The recruitment company I sold when I should have held on; it now turns over £100million. But my head was turned at the time with some quick money, and none of us know the future.

All of this is to say, that I am a ‘businessperson’ through and through, and I can honestly say that I heartly recommend BITA to anyone who isn’t already a member.

I have two businesses now, The British Hovercraft Company, and Energy Management Workshop (EMW). The latter

continues to grow steadily, and we have around 30% of our turnover from clients and referrals from the BITA community.

A lot of ink has been used writing about energy costs since February 2022, and as a business we offer a complete service to our clients to manage their energy supply – whether it be manufacturing or construction.

We can save construction companies money before they even chose where to start – we are able to say whether a site is suitable for development regarding the energy provisions, we can arrange for installation and transfer of ownership of meters for a start. The best thing is that we charge the energy companies, not the construction businesses!

About 5 years ago, a member of BITA contacted me and said that they needed to get some brownie points with McLaren Construction as he’d just received a contract from them. He asked if I was able to reduce the budget for the energy contract at a site at Tower Bridge. In 36 hours, we’d saved them £90k on a £280k quote. As a result of this we still work with them, and now work with McLaren Construction. We welcome BITA

members to get in touch and give us a task like this – we love a challenge!

The British Hovercraft Company is my one and only foray into the manufacturing world, and it was initially an investment into the R&D of creating better hovercraft models, rather than sales. But here we are, and we now export our British-made hovercraft all over the world.

We have also made them available to use to BITA members for surveying and transport. Laing O’Rourke used them to transport crew, and others have used us for seismic studies, supply of equipment to islands, survey works in marshes and bogs, and installation of works in boggy areas.

In addition, we have also had business use us for training in outdoor pursuits, and for World Clean Up Day 2021, Mr. Whitnell organised a gang of BITA friends to do a clean-up on the River Medway –for which we lent our wonderful crafts.

We have just returned from a promotional trip to beautiful Dungarvan Bay, demonstrating our versatile hovercraft for corporate & recreational applications, as well as commercial. We also really enjoyed spending time with a local youth group!

The community in BITA is, I think, unique for the support and camaraderie that we have, the genuine desire to help each other. I haven’t attended the events for 10 years for my health, but for the fun, the relationships, and the business opportunities. This is why I want to invite the BITA community to get in touch with me (james@britishhovercraft.com) if you think I can help your business.

Are dogs and business a good mix? Some say they are their lifesaver!

Justin Gilmore from Dog Training in Kent is answering your burning questions about juggling work with man’s best friend

Ioften equate dog behaviour to kettles; they cycle from cold (sleeping) to boiling (I want to play now; give me some attention!) throughout the day. So, if your dog is warming up nicely and reaching boiling point, and you are preparing for a Zoom meeting or drafting an important email, you’re going to run into problems leaving both you and your furry friend frustrated and annoyed.

As a dog behaviourist, I can assess your dog’s underlying temperament, confidence and character and provide you with a solution so you can live and work in harmony with your loving dog. Some clients may well say “I love my dog, but I don’t like it”, which comes from the frustration of a naughty hound that is anxious about being left at home after lockdown gave them your continuous devotion.

Separation anxiety is a common condition that I regularly help clients with. The extent varies from dog to dog, but symptoms can include toileting in the home, excessive whinging, destructive conduct, not eating, and even selfmutilation. The good news is that this condition can be resolved by the owner making changes to the way they react to the situation, meaning the dog will flourish, and will no longer suffer, bringing balance and happiness to the relationship.

Employers who encourage dogs in the workplace, might have happy and engaged teams who provide a great service to happy customers, but there are also downfalls that can be avoided with a quick briefing session and my advice on how these downfalls can be avoided.

It’s a known fact that dogs can provide great therapy in stressful situations, and are incredible at lifting spirits when times are tough, but in addition to this, taking a well earned break to walk the hound or have a quick game of ball in the garden, will actually help you to focus on priorities when you return to your desk and refresh you to tackle that job you were avoiding!

DEAR JUSTIN.......

We’ve put some burning questions to Justin – get in touch with laura@bita.ie if you have any and we may feature the answer in the next issue!

How can I stop my dog from eating the food I put out for the cat?

Review your current dog food and quantity and teach and guide the dog that it’s not for them. Also consider where in the house the food is served.

How long does it take someone to become a dog behaviourist, and what is the training involved?

This is a big question and would depend on many factors such as previous knowledge, handling skills, people skills and so on. I know lots of people that can drive, but are they good drivers? It also depends on whether they wish to be practitioners, academics, or both. I’m still learning!

How do you know if a dog is truly happy?

We should consider what daily stimulation they receive, their diet, and the house rules and boundaries. A dog that rarely rests is, I would suggest not balanced and therefore not happy. Some people say, “my dog sleeps a lot” and this could

be a result of being bored. Generally, a balanced dog is a happy dog. Dogs’ needs are: water, food, shelter, exercise, discipline, company and affection.

How can I help my dog to trust other dogs when another dog previously attacked it?

This largely depends on the owner’s relationship with their dog and the dog’s character, confidence and temperament. If you invited me to your local pub and every time I attended, I was punched by someone while you looked on, then I’d soon lose trust in you and might lash out at everyone just in case: it becomes a learned behaviour. The good news is that trust can be rebuilt, dogs can learn to be more relaxed and accepting.

Justin Gilmore is a proud member of BITA and dog trainer who specialises in dog aggression. Recommended by vets, he can provide friendly, informative assistance for all dogs. Contact him by email at hello@dogtraininginkent.com

A construction contract in Ireland?

What to know on Irish construction taxes

Recently, Roberts Nathan have been assisting several UK based businesses commencing construction projects in Ireland for the first time.

Many UK based businesses in the construction industry will feel they are already familiar with the Irish market prior to commencement of their Irish projects, but will only set up their Irish operations and tax registrations after starting. It is, however, very important to ensure that the correct corporate structure is used from the outset to avoid unanticipated administrative and tax costs: planning is key.

There are several key tax considerations that businesses in the construction industry should keep in mind when commencing operations in Ireland.

Relevant Contracts Tax (RCT)

RCT is a withholding tax that is applied to certain activities carried out in Ireland (somewhat like CIS tax in the UK but with some important differences, which can be costly if not operated correctly). RCT captures almost all traditional construction activities along with a very wide range of associated or connected activities that would not generally be considered construction related, and which can cause issues if not considered beforehand.

• Subcontractors

A non-Irish based or new business acting as a subcontractor on a project in Ireland, will generally suffer withholding tax (RCT) at a rate of 35% on the payments due from its customer (another subcontractor / main contractor or developer). This rate can be reduced to 20% provided the business registers for Irish taxes, including RCT, with the Irish Revenue Commissioners in advance of receiving any payments.

While any RCT withheld is refundable, there is a specific process in place for this which can take anywhere between 6 months to 18 months depending on the type of entity and the length of the Irish project. It is therefore extremely important for cash flow purposes that construction businesses operating in Ireland are proactive and have the correct tax registrations in place in advance of receiving any relevant payments.

For businesses carrying out long-term projects in Ireland (likely 6 months or more) it is also possible to apply to have the withholding tax rate reduced to 0% which we have assisted several companies with recently.

• Principal/Main Contractors

Where a construction business or developer engages a subcontractor to carry out services on an Irish construction project, they are required to apply the RCT system. This involves notifying Irish Revenue in real time when making payments to the subcontractor. Revenue instantly advises of the withholding tax rate to be applied through their online system and the net amount is then paid to the subcontractor.

It is vital that this system is applied correctly as penalties of up to 35% can be applied by Revenue where notifications are made late or not made at all. It should be kept in mind that this is applied regardless of where the customer and the principal contractor are based, once the project is in Ireland and so early advice is essential.

VAT

A specific VAT regime applies to construction services in Ireland where RCT applies which essentially applies a reverse charge VAT mechanism. This means that the customer (being the principal or main

contractor) receives invoices with 0% VAT (along with a specific invoice wording) from its subcontractors and must self-account for the Irish VAT arising. While this often simplifies the VAT chain, it is important to determine whether the recipient is entitled to fully recover VAT incurred on the contract to ensure a VAT cost does not arise.

Payroll Taxes

Non-Irish businesses may have an Irish payroll tax obligation in respect of employees carrying out their employment duties from Ireland. However, this obligation varies for every business depending on the circumstances of the specific employees, the length of the project, the number of days worked in Ireland by each employee and the type of corporate structure used – in certain cases exemptions are available.

Corporate Tax

If an Irish company is used as part of the project, an Irish corporation tax obligation will arise. The Irish corporate tax rate for trading entities is 12.5%.

Where a non-Irish corporate is used, an Irish corporation tax obligation may not necessarily arise, but this will again vary for each business. In general, an Irish project lasting longer than 6 months for a UK company will likely create a corporation tax filing and payment obligation in Ireland.

Roberts Nathan are a full-service firm, so if you are considering entering the Irish construction market or already have, we can help! For an initial meeting or discussion, please contact our Ireland / UK desk:

Kevin Donovan

Email: kevin.donovan@robertsnathan.com

IRE Mobile: +353 85 172 1057

Aidan Scollard

Email: aidan.scollard@robertsnathan.com

UK Mobile: +44 7717 610 193