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Security: 20 years safeguarding businesses and the public

Leisure Guard Security share their business story in an interview with operations director Saj Kadva.

IT: An integrated approach to managed IT solutions Interview with Ram Gupta, MD of Nybble, looking at the business of IT services and support.

Apprentiships: National Apprenticeship Week Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week with Salford City College.

Telecoms: Ready for the great copper switch-off? Andy Thompson, MD of nxcoms, guides us through the changeover from old copper telecoms to new fibre-optic cabling.

Hospitality: Go Wilde in the city! Review of Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity latest site opened on 9 February at St. Peter’s Square in City centre Manchester.

Exporting: From mutineers to trade agreements Analysis of the CPTPP - the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Safety: Keeping the workplace and public safe Focus on risk management for businesses, also the rollout of ‘Martyn’s Law’ making venues safer from terrorism.

L-R Carl Heywood, Director of Client Services and Tony Hill, Associate Director of Leisure Guard Security, pictured outside newly opened Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity, St Peter’s Square, Manchester

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BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

Business Connect Mag azine is available both IN PRINT and ONLINE at

contents 4 : NEWS From across the UK and beyond.

BusinessCo nn Magazine.c ect o.uk ALL- NEW LEXUS NX SELF - CHARGI NG OR PLUG - I N HYB RI D

8 - 9 : CONSTRUCTION News from across the UK.

FEEL M O RE I N EVERY M O M ENT

AVAILABLE TO TEST DRIVE NOW

10 - 11 : AUTOMOTIVE RRG latest offers

LEXUS STOCKPORT Rooth Street, Stockport, SK4 1DJ 0161 475 3631 www.lexus.co.uk/stockport

12 - 13 : EMPLOYMENT The Greater Manchester Good

Wilde Aparthotels at St. Peter’s Square in Manchester reviewed. 16 - 17 : IT Review of Nybble IT business

support 18 - 19 : SECURITY

Leisure Guard Security interview with operations director Saj Kadva. 20 - 21 : SAFETY Martyn’s Law, Risk management and workplace/public safeguarding.

Subscription is easy and FREE. Simply visit BusinessConnectMagazine.co.uk/ subscribe where you can register your details to receive an electronic link to the magazine as soon as it is published.

STOCKPORT

Employment Charter 15 : HOSPITALITY

Model shown is All-New NX 450h+. Official NX 450h+ fuel consumption figures in mpg (1/100km): 256.8-313.8 (0.9-1.1). Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 21-25. Electric NX 450h+ range in miles: 41.7-45.7. Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and/or equivalent all-electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results. Fuel consumption, CO2 produced and equivalent all-electric range can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). All mpg and CO2 figures quoted are full WLTP figures. For more information on WLTP and specific vehicle types see www.vehicle-certification-agency. gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp.

editorial

The all-new Lexus NX feels like nothing that came before. With striking new looks including a sculpted front facia signature grille and a beautifully crafted interior with Tazuna design including an all-new multimedia system, it offers an exhilarating driving experience. It also marks the introduction of Lexus plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology; the latest achievement in the brand’s distinguished history of electrified vehicle innovation alongside the self-charging hybrid model. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV’s) use a conventional petrol engine and an electric motor powered by a battery that can be recharged through the hybrid system on the move, or by connecting to an electricity supply – either at home through a wall box or at one of thousands of charging stations available across the UK network. The large battery gives the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid a range up to 40 miles in pure electric mode, when fully charged, but when the battery runs low it combines petrol with renowned Lexus hybrid technology for the best blend of efficiency and range. The pack that powers a PHEV car’s battery is larger than that in a standard hybrid; giving it the advantage that it can run for longer on pure electric power alone. A PHEV can offer a ‘best of both worlds’ solution to the car owner still unsure about going full electric and for those still considering the range of full electric vehicles. Power for the all-new NX plug-in hybrid model features a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder hybrid engine, an 18.1kWh lithium-ion battery and two electric motors – with one on the rear axle to provide full-time all-wheel drive. The full system produces a maximum 302bhp, which should enable acceleration from rest to 62mph in just over six seconds. On pure electric power alone, it can be driven at speeds of up to 84 miles per hour.

While the NX 450h+ will be the flagship model, the new NX range will also include a self-charging hybrid electric model, the NX 350h. This too demonstrates the substantial progress Lexus has made with its fourth-generation hybrid system. Compared to the current NX 300h, it delivers 22 per cent more power (239bhp) and 15 per cent faster acceleration from 0-62mph (7.7 seconds), while also offering better fuel efficiency than the outgoing model.

18 24

Are you ready to feel more with the all-new Lexus NX? Our experienced team is well placed to create amazing for every customer whatever your requirements and advise you on the best solutions for your business. For more information, and book your test drive please contact Darryl Selwyn at Lexus Stockport on 0161 475 3626 or 07790842678 visit www.lexus.co.uk/stockport or find us at Rooth Street, Stockport, SK4 1DJ

adver tise We offer a fantastic range of advertising opportunities, from double page spreads through to eighth pages that offer advertising at extremely reasonable rates. The rates are the same for editorial and adverts.

24 - 27 : EXPORTING A look at the CPTPP trade opportunities with Tony Goodman MBE.

France Line International Transport, Allseas Global Logistics, Harbour International Freight

Discounted packages are available on request for series bookings.

28 : IT

Microsoft’s new pricing with Nybble IT support

29 : AWARDS The Greater Manchester Business Awards return for 2022.

31 : NETWORKING Lunch with the Business Catalyst Club. 32 : APPRENTICESHIPS #BuildTheFuture with

Salford City College 33 : WELLBEING Susan Leigh Why are you so tired all the time? 34 : DIARY DATES List of business networking events.

Here at Business Connect Magazine we are on the lookout for both news articles relating to business activity across all sectors, and educational articles that can help businesses at any level. If you regularly send out press releases, or if you are looking for press coverage of a newsworthy event, please get in touch either by phone or send an email to editorial@BusinessConnect Magazine.co.uk

23 : TELECOMS The great copper switch-off, review by Andy Thompson from nxcoms.

30 : DIGITAL MARKETING PPC offer with Vancula.

For more information please download a copy of our media pack found on our website: BusinessConnectMagazine.co.uk/ advertise or alternatively please email: advertising@BusinessConnectMagazine. co.uk or phone:

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• 07971 575977 Office • 0161 969 8632 The magazine connects businesses across the UK and beyond, and is completely free. PUBLISHED BY

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DESIGNED, EDITED AND PUBLISHED BY Jon Cheetham, Paul Mirage.

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DISCLAIMER Whilst we have taken all reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information contained within this magazine, we give no warranty and make no representation regarding the accuracy or the completeness of the content of this information. Consequently we accept no liability for any losses or damage (whether direct, indirect, special, consequential or otherwise) arising out of errors or omissions contained in this magazine. Views expressed in Business Connect Magazine in editorial or advertising content are not necessarily those of it’s publisher Business Connect Publishing Limited. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies supplied to us in editorial or advertising material. Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy and Acceptable Use policies are to be found on BusinessConnectMagazine.co.uk

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February/March 2022

news Birmingham, Bristol and Leicester top fastest growing buy-to-let areas for 2022 Figures released by landlord insurance provider Simply Business, revealed Birmingham, Bristol and Leicester top the list for the most attractive cities for landlords looking to invest in 2022.

The analysis of over 150,000 landlord insurance policies found investment in Birmingham increased 14.6% from 2020 to 2021, followed by Bristol with a 12.7% growth in investment and Leicester with an 11.8% increase.

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Landlords are increasingly choosing to invest in regions outside of London post-pandemic to attract a greater rental yield. London came 7th in the list for buy-to-let growth, mirrored by an exodus of renters during the

pandemic and increased rents as a consequence of demand outstripping supply. The analysis suggests that UK landlords believe that buy-to-let prosperity will be well spread across the UK’s regions in 2022.

Is the four-day working week a worthwhile experiment for employers? A six-month pilot has recently been announced in which participating employers will trial a four-day working week for all employees with no corresponding reduction in pay, and researchers will examine the impact of this on employee productivity and well-being. The pilot will run from June 2022 to December 2022 and is being co-ordinated by not-for-profit 4 Day Week Global, think-tank Autonomy, the 4 Day Week UK Campaign, and researchers at Cambridge University, Boston College and Oxford University. Similar trials have already taken place in Iceland, New Zealand and Japan and have concluded that a four-day week boosts productivity, increases wellbeing and work-life balance, and leads to fewer instances of stress. The aim of this new pilot is to establish whether the same findings are replicated in the UK and whether a large-scale move to this more sustainable way of working is commercially viable.

How does this differ to existing arrangements offered by employers? A four-day working week is not a new phenomenon. Many employees in the UK already work a four-day week, however, this is typically agreed on a case by case basis between employee and employer following a flexible working request. It tends to be accompanied by a corresponding reduction in pay, except in the case of “compressed hours” in which case the employee is simply squeezing the same number of hours into a shorter week. In the current pilot the situation is slightly different in that the employees will be doing one day’s less work but for no less pay. The logic behind this is that employees won’t be measured on how long they are at work, but the output they produce, with those running the pilot seeking to prove that the shortened week will in fact result in greater productivity and output rather than less.

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CEO diversity pledge signed by M&S North West records 46% fewer profit Co-operative Group and PageGroup warnings in 2021 than previous year The CEOs of some of the UK’s biggest firms have joined forces in a historic partnership aimed at ’moving the dial on diversity’ - in a bid to create more inclusive workforces up and down the country. The chief executives/SVPs of the Co-operative Group, M&S and PageGroup have founded the movement and are some of the first signatories on the ‘CEO Activist & Moving the Dial on Diversity Pledge’, which will drive action to better engage and support all underrepresented groups within business. The agreement was signed in partnership with DIAL Global - a diversity and inclusion accelerator that powers business growth through specialist knowledge, advice and expertise. The three firm’s actions have already inspired a range of other businesses to join the pledge, with leaders from nine other organisations making the same commitment. Alfa Financial Software, Fresenius Kabi, HH Global, IPSOS, Lexis Nexis, Lucky Generals, Rugby League World Cup, Superdrug and Unilever have all added their names to the list. The CEO Activist & Moving the Dial on Diversity Pledge focuses on four key areas, which are: • Ensuring workplaces are inclusive with clear steps to ensure current and future leadership team diversity. • A commitment to measure progress annually against 10 areas of diversity and inclusion, which were first introduced in 2020 through an inaugural report from the McKenzie-Delis Foundation. • A promise to implement strategic diversity plans with clear accountability for CEOs and their leadership teams. • A commitment for each CEO to share their learnings and strategic plans for the future. Leila McKenzie-Delis, Founder of DIAL Global and The McKenzie Delis Foundation, said: “We are delighted to have these three remarkable and highprofile CEOs on board with us as founding partners. “As leaders of some of the UK’s largest corporations, they manage hundreds of thousands of employees and play a critical role in driving action to ensure that diversity, inclusion, belonging and equity are core themes of workplace culture.”

The number of profit warnings issued by North West-listed companies decreased significantly to 26 in 2021, compared with 48 in 2020, according to EY-Parthenon’s latest Profit Warnings report. In the North West, warnings were heavily weighted to the fourth quarter of the year, when 15 were issued as supply chain disruption and cost pressures affected many businesses. This is up significantly on Q4 2020, when only three warnings were issued.

profit warnings as forecasting and earnings challenges evolved and multiplied.” Profit warnings issued by UK listed companies increased by 19% yearon-year in Q4 2021, with record levels of warnings citing supply chain disruption and rising costs in the final quarter of the year. In the final quarter of 2021, UK listed companies issued 70 warnings, up 19 from the 51 issued in Q3, with a record 44% blaming supply chain disruption (compared to just 2% between 2009 and 2019), and a further 27% citing rising cost pressures.

Following the UK trend, companies in FTSE Consumer Discretionary sectors were most affected throughout the year in the North West, including nine profit warnings from retailers in 2021. In In total, 203 profit warnings were Q4, a third of profit warnings across the issued in 2021, down from the recordregion were issued by FTSE Retailers. breaking 583 warnings witnessed Sam Woodward, EY-Parthenon in 2020 and the second lowest by Turnaround and Restructuring Strategy number since EY began tracking Partner in the North West said: warnings in 1999. The low total is due “In 2021, the majority of North West to the strong post-lockdown rebound businesses issuing profit warnings did and exceptionally low levels of profit so in the fourth quarter, with warnings warnings in the first half of the year, up 12 from the fourth quarter of 2020. which gave way to extensive supply In line with the rest of the UK, one of chain disruption and rising costs in the most affected sectors has been the second. retail, with five retailer warnings in EY-Parthenon’s report found that Q4 2021 alone.” one-in-five listed consumer-facing “Companies bounced back well from the pandemic in the first half of 2021 with healthy headline growth, but during the second half an increasing number of companies were issuing

companies issued a warning over the last year. The most affected sectors were FTSE Aerospace & Defense (57%), FTSE Personal Care, Drug & Grocery Stores (39%). Award-winning cartoonist Tony Husband and his interesting friends are available for live presentations at your open days, training events, product launches, etc. Tony can offer a totally unique and humorous touch to your marketing literature, calendars, reception art, portraits, and Christmas cards.

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Join the full ﬁbre revolution.... Traditional telephone and broadband lines are being phased out and now is the time to connect your business to ultra-fast optical ﬁbre.

As the Government promises 100% Gigabit capability by 2025, BT and Openreach are now starting to shut down old copper-based telephone services. So if your business uses ISDN, PSTN, or Broadband through an analogue phone line, then you need to act now to ensure your business is prepared for the switch-off. Connecting to ultra-fast full ﬁbre has never been easier. Nxcoms has joined forces with Faster Britain to utilise existing infrastructure and deploy full ﬁbre gigabit connections to your business within days rather than months. All with options priced to suit every budget, large or small. So if you want to future-proof your business and boost your internet access with lightning-fast gigabit speeds, then now is the time to talk to us!

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February/March 2022

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

Growth of digital-only banking customers stalls as people say traditional banks treat them well

Fox Brothers to headline all Shout Expos in 2022 Plant hire and haulage firm Fox Brothers have agreed headline partnerships for the 2022 Shout Expo business exhibitions in Lancashire, Merseyside and Greater Manchester. The dates of the expos are: Lancashire Business Expo - Friday March 25 at Preston Guild Hall Merseyside Expo – Thursday June 30 at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool North West Expo – Friday 21 October at Bolton Whites Hotel Lancashire based Fox Brothers are enjoying their 90th anniversary and now employs over 500 people within Lancashire, with an ongoing commitment to recruitment and training. Services include haulage, plant hire, aggregates, recycling and waste disposal, contracting, concrete, demolition, shipping and stevedoring and demolition. Paul Fox, Managing Director of the Fox Group, said about headlining the Shout Expo exhibitions, “Lancashire Business Expo will be the Fox Group’s first attendance at a Shout Expo exhibition. We are extremely proud to be headlining this and the Merseyside and North West events throughout 2022.

The number of people saying they have an account with a digital-only bank has stalled for the first time in 4 years, new research from personal finance comparison site finder.com shows. Around a quarter of the population (27%), equivalent to 13.9 million people, say they currently have an account with a digital-only bank, which is the same figure as last year. This is the first time during 4 years of tracking digital banking adoption in the UK that Finder’s poll has shown the figure flatlining.

“We are looking forward to telling our story, making new friends and acquaintances, and being a part of something that highlights the strength of business and industry in the North West.” Director of Shout Expo, Jordan Conlin, said, “We’re delighted that Fox Brothers have agreed to be a headline partner of all three expos. We’re very excited about working closely with them over the next 12 months to promote the Fox Brothers brand to the North West business community. This is a great opportunity for both companies.”

But growth appears to have been slowing for a while, with the number of digital-only banking users rising from 9% in 2019 to 23% in 2020 before a more modest rise last year, when it rose to 27%.

3 in 10 (31%) respondents said they have absolutely no intention of opening a digital-only bank account in the future and gave reasons why. The top factor was that over half (55%) of these people feel like they have always been treated well by their current bank. Similarly, around 1 in 6 (16%) also said their traditional bank had been helpful during the COVID pandemic. As the world begins to return to normal, the second most common reason was that customers prefer having the option of face-to-face communication with their bank (35%). A worrying finding for the digital-only banks is that a quarter (25%) of those not intending to switch cited a lack of trust in new banks as the reason.

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February/March 2022

construction

Buyers’ rights of new homes £4.2bn major projects framework partners chosen strengthen with industry code

Procurement Hub, part of Places for People, has appointed Robertson Construction Group, Willmott Dixon Construction Ltd, and Farrans Construction to its new Major Projects Framework following a strict procurement process. The £4.2bn Major Projects Framework will be the second iteration, building upon the success and strengths of the current framework, providing a variety of construction work for a wide range of public sectors including local government, housing, health, transport, education and more. Features of the framework include • Transparent and low framework fees, which reduce for larger project values • 100% of fees generated will be donated to charities, support social value projects, or be reinvested directly into the public sector • Low Carbon alternatives presented • 100% renewable energy used on every site • A minimum of 85% of project values will be available to local supply chains and SMEs • Mandated Modern Slavery Awareness training for contractors on each project • Fast payment of sub-contractors (within 19 days) • Up to eight jobs created per £5m of project value

• Immediate starts to projects - no further competitions required • Support from Procurement Hub’s dedicated framework management team. Alan Heron, Director of Procurement for Procurement Hub and Places for People, said: “This framework aims to be one of the most socially conscious, greenest, financially robust, and flexible frameworks available anywhere in the UK, enabling clients to benefit in all areas of procurement. “We are aiming to achieve this by reflecting the principles of the UK Government’s Green Paper ‘Transforming Public Procurement’, The National Procurement Policy Statement, The Construction Handbook, The Construction Playbook, and the recently published ‘Constructing the Gold Standard’ report. “We’re incredibly proud that the core ethos of this innovative new framework and the appointed contractors embody the principles of key current and future legislation and best practice.” The agreement will run for an initial four-year period, with the option for it to be extended for a further two years. The framework has been established with three regional lots covering Scotland, England and Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Large swathe of councils still failing to meet housing needs Nearly a third of England’s local authorities failed to meet their housing delivery targets last year, according to government figures. Out of 321 local councils 93 failed to hit their targets, 29% - a modest improvement on 2020 figures where 34% failed. Head of housing and planning policy at the National Federation of Builders Rico Wojtulewicz said: “The problem is there are no real consequences for not meeting the targets. If you are constrained by the green belt, then the government will let you off.” Local authorities in the north and the

midlands tended to perform better than those in the southeast. The housing delivery targets were introduced in 2018 as a way of putting pressure on local councils to build more new homes and help the government meet its goal of 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s. The Construction Products Association forecasts growth of 3% this year and next in private housing building compared with 17% in 2021. Repair and maintenance output is predicted to remain flat due to rising costs in contrast to last year which saw a 17% growth.

Developers who fail to resolve snags on new homes could see themselves struck off the New Homes Quality Board, NHQB, register.

“Over the coming months, we will work closely with industry to support and help them make the transition to the new arrangements.”

The board has released a new housebuilders code banning high-pressure selling, requiring an after-sale ‘cooling off’ period and protecting the buyer for up to two years after purchase.

Deposits paid to the builder to reserve a new home must be protected, the developer has to provide details about tenure and future management service charges during the sales process. Snagging issues must also be dealt with promptly.

MP and NHQB chair Natalie Elphicke said the code, which has been five years in the making, would be central to driving up new homes’ standards. “It fills the gaps in existing protections and puts considerably more requirements on builders in terms of how they deal with their customers and any issues that they have with their new home.

The code also requires a home is complete before the buyer can move in and allows customers to ask a professional to carry out a pre-completion inspection. Builders must have an aftercare service for any snagging problems and a complaints process that responds to the new homeowners promptly keeping them informed throughout.

McLaren Group launches new national residential development business

International property group McLaren has launched a new business, focusing on mixed-use, residential development and placemaking in the UK. Matthew Biddle has been appointed as Managing Director of the McLaren Living business, which brings together McLaren Group’s property and construction expertise. The company will work to create agile, solutions-focused partnerships and joint ventures with private and public-sector organisations, bringing speed and flexibility to the process of building much-needed homes and mixed-use developments, across the UK. Matthew Biddle joins the business to lead a team who understand how to unlock developments and create places that make a positive difference to local communities. He brings with him 18 years of experience, leading residential development businesses at Berkeley Group. This includes building strong relationships with local authorities and registered providers. Matthew will work alongside former Chief Executive of Newham Council, Kim Bromley-Derry CBE, to strengthen McLaren’s partnership offering and develop long-term joint ventures. Kevin Taylor, Chairman, McLaren Group, commented: “We welcome Matthew to McLaren at this exciting point in the evolution and growth of our company. His skills and experience will help us to deliver homes that the country so badly needs and new places where people want to live, work and stay. We look forward to sharing our can-do culture with local authorities, registered providers and other organisations, working in partnership to help them to meet and exceed their housing priorities.”

February/March 2022

Brick prices set to rise in coming months

The UK brick maker Forterra warned of further price hikes this year in its latest trading statement. The company said it was reviewing costs before deciding whether to charge more following double-digit increases over the last few months due to higher energy costs. Chief executive Stephen Harrison said: “We remain watchful of further inflationary cost pressures, and we will apply further price increases as necessary.” He added 70% of the company’s energy costs had now been secured covering the winter months when volatility is traditional at its highest. The company reported brick sales bouncing back to pre-pandemic levels with sales 1% above 2019’s figures and 33% ahead of 2020’s. Revenue for 2021 was expected to reach £370m - a 3% drop on 2019’s figures but a 27% increase on 2020. He said this was due to Forterra’s precast concrete factory closing resulting in reduced output of bespoke products but added brick and block revenues were seven per cent up on 2019. Bricks and roof tiles are in short supply with demand outstripping supply against a backdrop of rising inflation, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has warned. Imports of bricks from the EU and globally are set to continue until three new UK brickmaking plants come on stream next year and in 2024. The new factories are predicted to boost UK annual capacity by about 150m bricks per year. The CLC’s product availability group co-chairs John Newcomb and Peter Caplehorn said: “We continue to stress the importance of maintaining open lines of communication throughout the supply chain and encourage all sectors to continue to work closely and collaboratively to manage challenges and plan future work.” Aerated concrete blocks, steel lintels, manhole covers, plastic drainage products, sealants, coatings and paints are also hard to come by. Lack of semi-conductors is constraining boiler supply at a time of high demand although the CLC said insufficient supplies were not due to chip shortages.

New residential development for Liverpool City Centre Integritas Property Group (IPG) has announced the launch of Bastion Point - a brand new residential development in the heart of Liverpool, offering a opportunities for local investors. Phase one of the development, due for completion in Q3 of 2023, will see 67 luxury apartments built over seven floors on Naylor Street, just a short walk to Liverpool City Centre and the popular location of Albert Docks. Featuring a variety of one and twobedroom apartments. Mitchell Walsh, managing director at IPG, commented: “Liverpool is currently an excellent prospect for investors due to its strong capital appreciation. Seven of the city’s postcodes feature in the UK’s top ten best capital appreciation locations. “With the North West expected to grow in population by 24% over the

Under the rules, carbon emissions from new build homes must be 30% lower than currently and other new buildings such as offices and shops must be 27% lower. Housing minister Eddie Hughes said the regulations were an important step towards 2025’s future homes and building standards where all new homes must be net-zero ready. “The changes will significantly improve the energy efficiency of the buildings where we live, work and spend our free time and are an important step on our country’s journey towards a cleaner, greener built environment.”

The National Federation of Builders head of housing and planning policy Rico Wotulewicz said: “We’re encouraging our members to go higher than this interim standard as the 2025 future homes standard will move the goalposts again.”

“We’re delighted to begin work on Bastion Point and open up this fantastic opportunity to investors, who we predict will profit from 7.5% net rental income upon completion. “Liverpool really is stepping up its game to compete with Manchester, with the local council investing heavily into the regeneration of the city to secure the same success as Ancoats.”

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ALL- NEW LEXUS NX SELF - CHARGI NG OR PLUG - I N HYB RI D FEEL M O RE I N EVERY M O M ENT

AVAILABLE TO TEST DRIVE NOW LEXUS STOCKPORT Rooth Street, Stockport, SK4 1DJ 0161 475 3631 www.lexus.co.uk/stockport

STOCKPORT Model shown is All-New NX 450h+. Official NX 450h+ fuel consumption figures in mpg (1/100km): 256.8-313.8 (0.9-1.1). Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 21-25. Electric NX 450h+ range in miles: 41.7-45.7. Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and/or equivalent all-electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results. Fuel consumption, CO2 produced and equivalent all-electric range can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). All mpg and CO2 figures quoted are full WLTP figures. For more information on WLTP and specific vehicle types see www.vehicle-certification-agency. gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp.

February/March 2022

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

Toyota Professional

HILUX BORN TO ROAM

HILUX INVINCIBLE X WITH 2.8L ENGINE

£319 + VAT PER MONTH* £1,914 + VAT INITIAL RENTAL* Award winning Fleet, contact hire and corporate vehicle specialists. For more information please call Jonathan Lowdon on 0161 728 8253 / 07940589434 RRG Group Fleet, 191 Moorside Road, Swinton, M27 9LL www.rrgcontracthire.com

Model shown is MY22 Hilux Invincible X 2.8 D-4D Manual £34,137 +VAT including optional Metallic paint at £583.33 +VAT. Prices correct at time of being published. Terms and conditions apply. Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km): combined 31.4 (9.0) to 32.9 (8.6). Combined CO2 236-225 g/km. Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results. Fuel consumption and CO2 produced varies significantly depending on a number of factors, including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). All mpg and CO2 figures quoted are full WLTP figures. More information can be found by visiting: www.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp. *Business users only. Initial rental and VAT applies. Available on new leases of Hilux Invincible X when ordered and proposed for finance between 15th December 2021 and 31st March 2022, registered and financed by 30th June 2022 through KINTO One Contract Hire, a product offered by KINTO U.K. Limited. Advertised rental is based on a 36 month customer maintained contract at 8,000 miles per annum with an initial rental of £1,914 +VAT. Excess mileage charges apply. You will not own the vehicle. Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. At participating Toyota Centres. Toyota Centres are independent of KINTO U.K. Limited. Indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status to over 18s only. KINTO UK Limited registered office Building 1000, Lakeside North Harbour, Western Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO6 3EN. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Terms and conditions apply. KINTO is a registered trademark owned by Toyota Motor Europe and used under licence by KINTO U.K. Limited.

The Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter Improving employment standards in GM across seven characteristics of good employment, all underpinned by the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion

Secure Work

Flexible Work

Pay

Engagement & Voice

Recruitment

People Management

Health & Wellbeing

Join the movement GMgoodemploymentcharter.co.uk

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

employment

The Greater Manchester

Good Employment Charter

Carol Halford, Manager of the Charter Implementation Unit from the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter, recently gave Business Connect Magazine an insight into what the Charter represented. What is the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter? “The Charter is a voluntary membership and assessment scheme. It was created to improve employment standards across Greater Manchester employers, regardless of size, sector or geography. “Our vision is for Greater Manchester to be recognised as a place where people are paid fairly for their work, treated appropriately, and provided with inclusive opportunities. We also want to see the city region’s economy thrive, with organisations that are productive and effective at the heart of it.” Can anyone join the Charter network? “Organisations including public sector bodies, private sector businesses, service providers, the third sector, and voluntary and community organisations are welcome to sign up to the Charter. This is specific to Greater Manchester.” What are the characteristics of the Charter? “The Charter seeks commitment and excellent practice across seven key characteristics of good employment: • Secure Work • Flexible Work • Pay • Engagement & Voice

Join the movement:

• Recruitment • People Management • Health & Wellbeing “We are also driven to develop diverse, equal and truly inclusive working conditions. By promoting the benefits of equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace, we aim to support employers to create environments that embrace our characteristics of Good Employment in ways that ensure fair pay, opportunity and progression to all. These issues are central to the fulfilment of Good Employment.” How can employers benefit from joining the Charter network? “There are multiple business benefits to joining the Charter. “Firstly, employers can significantly improve their employees lives – with help from our specialised and exclusive support, resources and guidance. “Secondly, employers can become part of a Greater Manchester business community, beaming with like-minded employers who have the opportunity to connect, network, and share good practice. “Finally, improving employment practice is not only ‘right’ to do, but it enables employers to achieve more – with proven business benefits, and a contribution to the overall direction of Greater Manchester being a good place to live and work.“

@GoodEmpCharter

Carol Halford, Manager of the Charter Implementation Unit, Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter

How can employers join the Charter network? “The process of signing up to the Charter at our entry tier could not be simpler. “Employers can visit our website and fill out a quick 1-page Supporter Registration form. The form acts as a commitment, whereby employers commit to fully supporting the Charter’s seven characteristics and improving their employment practice. Joining the Charter network is free, and open to organisations of all sizes and sectors.” What are the different stages of involvement? “There are two stages involved. Our entry tier is the Supporter tier, where an employer commits to working towards our seven characteristics of Good Employment. “The next tier is Membership, where employers with demonstrable good practice can be recognised against a thorough assessment process.” How can Supporters progress to Membership? “Supporters can progress to membership provided they can demonstrate the changes they have made within the seven characteristics of the Charter. The process involves working through a rigorous assessment, with the help and guidance of our advisors. The assessment is then cross examined by our technical panel and finally the Charter’s board members.”

How else could employers get involved in the Charter? “We host several hybrid events throughout the year which bring our network together. This includes in-person networking events, monthly webinars, exclusive coffee chats and masterclasses. And most recently our Greater Manchester Good Employment Awards, where Good Employment practice will be recognised across the city region.” What support is available to employers? “There is plenty of support available to our network. This includes personalised 1-to-1 support from our advisors, invitations to our events, and exclusive industry-standard resources, toolkits, and guides. We also have a podcast series.” What does your Podcast speak about? “The Greater Manchester Good Employment Chatter Podcast has two series, and 16 episodes. Hosted by the Director of the Charter, Ian MacArthur. Each episode delivers the best analysis of industry news, and tackles workplace challenges to spread awareness of the Good Employment practice that is needed to make Greater Manchester stronger, and fairer to all. Our podcast shares crucial Good Employment advice from employers and policy experts across the city region.”

@gm-good-employment-charter or visit: gmgoodemploymentcharter.co.uk/contact-us

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

hospitality Wilde Aparthotels at St. Peter’s Square

in Manchester is open for business!

Leading European aparthotel operator Staycity have opened the doors to its newest site in the heart of Manchester overlooking St. Peter’s Square providing the perfect location for short or longterm corporate stays. The 256-apartment property, operating under the group’s premium Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity brand, opened at the beginning of February and joins the fast-expanding Wilde estate, which currently boasts sites in Berlin, Edinburgh and London.

the Arndale Centre, The Opera House and Palace Theatre, Manchester Art Gallery, and is only a short walk to Oxford Road Train Station.

finishes such as natural timber flooring, bespoke joinery, luxury soft furnishings, Hypnos mattresses and Grohe rainfall showers.

With its playful interior design inspired by Irish writer and poet Oscar Wilde, Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity, Manchester, St Peter’s Square offers studio and one-bed apartments sleeping up to four guests. Wilde’s signature blend of home and hotel features superior

The apartments have well-equipped kitchens with luxury appliances and showcase artwork and crafts by local and Irish artists.

This is the third venue opened in Manchester by Staycity, offering access to a fantastic range of locations just a short walk away, including Manchester Central Exhibition Centre, Chinatown,

• 24 HOUR RECEPTION • GUEST LAUNDRY • GYM • BAR • HAIRDRYER • BREAKFAST OFFERING AVAILABLE • TOILETRIES • RAINFALL SHOWER • KITCHENETTES INCLUDE: FRIDGE, DISHWASHER, MICROWAVE/GRILL, NESPRESSO MACHINE, SMEG TOASTER, SMEG KETTLE

The St Peter’s Square aparthotel offers both guests and non-residents use of its large, contemporary lounge with bar looking across the city - perfect for relaxing, working or meeting friends or colleagues. Breakfast, snacks and hot and cold drinks can be bought at the Staycafé to take-out or enjoy in the lounge or the apartments. This is the first of six new Staycity properties to open in the first half of 2022, with others to follow in Dublin, Frankfurt and Paris adding a further 1,500 rooms to the company’s estate. Last year saw new locations in Bordeaux, Dublin and Heidelberg in addition to two prestigious openings in London under the Wilde brand, in Paddington and Aldgate. By the end of Spring 2022 Staycity will operate 5,000 apartments across its Staycity Aparthotels and premium Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity brands.

• ACCESSIBLE ROOMS/FACILITIES • IRON

WILDE APARTHOTELS BY STAYCITY St. Peter’s Square, 3 Dickinson Street, Manchester M1 4LF

Businesses are invited to a grand formal opening taking place on St. Patrick’s Day -

17 March • 4pm -10pm Let us extend you our

Staycity Welcome

with tours of the aparthotel, drinks and snacks, plus an opportunity for great networking!

0161 238 9800

e. wilde.stpeterssquare@staycity.com

amanda.holland@staycity.com

www.staycity.com/wilde

Staycity Northern Quarter

Staycity Piccadilly

Situated in the heart of Manchester’s Creative District, the 224 studio and one bed apartments are close to Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, Manchester’s central retail district and Victoria Train Station. The aparthotel also enjoys on-site guest laundry, meeting rooms, gym and the Staycafé which serves breakfast, snacks, as well as alcoholic beverages.

Located adjacent to Piccadilly Train Station, just a few steps from Piccadilly Gardens and the shopping district and within walking distance of Manchester Central Conference Centre, the Arndale Centre, Manchester Art Gallery and the Palace Theatre. Staycity Piccadilly comprised 182 one, two and three bedroom apartments which come fully furnished.

STAYCITY APARTHOTELS MANCHESTER NORTHERN QUARTER 20 Cable Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 5EG Rebecca Astley, Sales Manager t. +44 (0) 7730 761 021 e: rebecca.astley@staycity.com

17 MARCH

If you are a corporate looking to view or get further information about the open evening please call Amanda

• 43 INCH FLAT-SCREEN SMART TV • LUXURY HYPNOS MATTRESS

t. +44 (0) 203 744 7525

GRAND LAUNCH ON

STAYCITY APARTHOTELS MANCHESTER PICCADILLY 8B Gateway House, Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester M1 2GH Graham Lydiatt, Sales Manager t. +44 (0) 7860 951 275 e: graham.lydiatt@staycity.com

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

Taking a Nybble Business Connect Magazine were very keen to meet with Ram Gupta, Managing Director of Nybble, which has seen successful growth over the years in the IT and AV sectors. Ram – your business name is very memorable – does it have a specific meaning? “Nybble is actually half a byte, which is a basic unit of information in computer storage and processing. “It fits really well with our branding and people certainly remember us.” When did you start Nybble, and how was your business journey? “We started the company just over 20 years ago. Our intention was to change the perception of IT providers, which at that time weren’t very good. “We adopted a very strong customer-centric philosophy, and with the Richer Sounds brand as our aspiration, we opened a number of retail stores in the North West. “After 8 – 10 years, with a great set of customers, we moved away from Ram Gupta, Managing Director, Nybble

retail and became a managed service provider (MSP).

You mentioned writing software as part of your business?

“The growth continued, and today we have three distinct but related parts to the business. We’re a managed service provider, we’re also a software house, and thirdly an audio-visual company.”

“A couple of years after moving away from retail we were asked to develop some software, and this became a service that we felt comfortable offering to other customers. Since then, that side of our business has grown considerably – now we have 16 people in the UK writing for us, and a team of 30plus abroad.

What do you provide as a managed service provider? “This part of our business covers all things cloud, all things cyber – essentially from an IT perspective we look after your business, so you can look after your business! “A good MSP should also ensure you’re not vulnerable to external forces or attacks. We cover all elements safeguarding including firewalls and cyber security for example. “We also provide 24/7 helpdesk support, and if there’s a problem we offer a comprehensive range of support measures both in and out of office hours. We have a mantra – we’re your ‘In-house IT department’.”

“We write software for the automotive sector, steel manufacturing industry, corporate clients and e-commerce. We develop single lines of code right through to millions of lines of code. Areas covered can be simple, from API integrations to front end portals. We saw a lot of that in lockdown, with businesses bringing their back offices to customer facing. “Also, since the pandemic appeared, there have been a lot of new business start-ups with very specific e-commerce needs. We developed software around existing e-commerce platforms to make those platforms more intelligent. Things like WooCommerce, Magento, etc. “The combination of the MSP part of the business and our software development teams pretty soon established ourselves as a ‘Onestop shop’ for businesses to rely on. The fact we are one company helps enormously in saving time and expense in any problem solving for a business.” Where did the Audio-Visual part of your business develop from? “One of our core sectors is Education. This sector has a strong appetite for AV equipment, and we have always acted as a re-seller in this area. In 2017 we had the opportunity to buy the business we were acting on behalf of as a re-seller, and from then we have enjoyed fantastic growth in this area of business.” What do you provide in terms of AV? “Blackburn Rovers are a great

IT bu example of one of our customers. We’ve installed, and maintain, all their digital signage pitch-side at the club. “AV is a massive opportunity for many businesses to promote their brand. I think this is especially the case across the hospitality and retail sectors. For the hospitality sector, good function rooms, good boardrooms, all rely on good AV equipment and the ease of use that any prospective business customer needs (and expects) to enjoy a seamless user experience. “For the retail sector, in particular the high street and retail parks, the ability to rotate messages in terms of visual signage as part of their shop window displays is a massive promotional tool attracting passing footfall. Also, interactive touchscreens are commonplace now, and add the flexibility of messaging that we can help develop, support and maintain across any retail environment. “Also, visitor entry systems have become very popular with businesses across all sectors. From a greetings and visitor tracking functionality to another opportunity to promote your brand and services, we can support you with both the hardware and software needs.” The automotive sector features strongly as a specialist area for you, can you tell us more? “My background before starting Nybble was at a Mercedes Benz dealership, and one stand-out I recall was the lack of support from our external IT company. I left the job to actually study my MSc at Lancaster, but the dealership asked me to help one day a week. “During that time we started Nybble as both a consultancy and also a retail business, and it was the working relationship I had with the dealership that resulted in Nybble being awarded the position of official Mercedes Benz App developers which is operated from their headquarters in Stuttgart.

February/March 2022

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

out of

siness support “It’s fair to say the entire automotive sector is an area that we do specialise in. For example, our software is used widely across the sector to help dealerships reduce the amount of paperwork required and cut their carbon footprint.

Everything we suggest as a course of action has only one outcome – to make that business work better, whether it’s cutting edge hardware, AI, or any new process, software or product fresh to the market.

“This is after-sales software that allows for full digitisation of an after-sales platform. Also used widely across the sector is a fantastic product called Kerridge which is an aftermarket platform. The problem here is that it is essentially a data store that sometimes makes finding information tricky. Our software has been designed to make the job of finding specific data much easier – it’s a great example of how we can support not just the automotive sector but all businesses that need a better user experience with their existing digital tools.

“Customer service is at the core of our own business, and the 24/7 support we offer is crucial for our customers. It’s simply not acceptable that you’d have to wait for Monday morning for someone to answer a ticket, many businesses operate outside of office hours and need a quick response as soon as any potential problem arises.

“To be able to follow that journey we’ve needed to attain several accreditations, so we have now become an ISO 27001, ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 business. In addition we’ve also been awarded a Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation from the government’s National Cyber Security Centre.” What kind of businesses or sectors would be your ideal client? “We’ve obviously covered automotive, particularly fleet management who require the crucial 24/7 support, and there are several other sectors that we have done a lot of work with – hospitality and education for example. We work best with businesses that are forward thinking and require IT solutions that don’t just ‘come off the shelf’. “Businesses that are actively growing need a good, reliable IT partner. The optimum word there is partner. When we engage with a customer we feel as though we’re part of that business. Understanding that business is very important as we’re constantly reviewing solutions and options that may or may not be suitable.

“If you were to suggest the perfect customer for us I’d say offices between 20 and 250 people. Location isn’t an issue as we operate nationally from different sites, nor is sector.” What are your plans for growth? “We’re on an acquisition trail. We’re actively looking for businesses that can add value to what we offer as an organisation. Our motto is ‘Your vision, our solution’, and there are many areas that we’re currently looking at in terms of acquisition so we can deliver on this – ideally businesses that are established with say 10 – 20 employees.

leave the planet in a better condition that we found it in.

“We’re constantly aware of supporting our local community, and have won a mayoral award at the end of 2021 on the work that we have done in our local area – Blackburn with Darwen. During the pandemic, we gave customers who were struggling payment holidays. We also lent 1,400 laptops to children in need during lockdown through our charity partners Blackburn Youth Zone and Secret Santa based in Blackburn and Manchester. “During the last year we supported the Diwali Festival at Blackburn Rovers, raising funds for the Mayor’s Charity. We’re patrons of our local Community Foundation, East Lancashire Hospice, Saffron Group, we supported Rummage Rescuers and took part in the Nightsafe Sleepout - raising £5,560 donated by our generous business community supporting local homelessness charities.” What would you feel is your one USP that would mean businesses take you on as an IT partner?

“I would say it’s our strapline ‘One stop IT Solutions’. By covering multiple areas of support we can save many businesses both time and money when any problems occur. “A great example would be the hospitality sector. Let’s say a hotel has a TV that isn’t functioning in a particular room. The management phones the AV company that provided the TV and they send out an engineer that comes back with ‘It’s not our problem – it’s the WiFi’. The company that installed the WiFi then send out an engineer who says ‘It’s not our problem – it’s the TV that should be picking up the WiFi but isn’t’. Next, they both blame the connectivity saying the bandwidth is not adequate. By the time someone stops finger pointing and offers the correct solution, the hotel has spent a fortune on call-outs and the room’s been vacant for days. “By using Nybble, and our holistic approach to IT, problems like the one above can be instantly solved as we have expertise across so many areas of IT. For businesses, that level of support and approach is crucial”.

MANAGED IT SOLUTIONS

“Our future growth is very much down to relationships. We’re not a sales-focused organisation, we operate on conversations and a personal touch. We’re also very clear on a mandate for social value.”

Find out more - connect with

phone

0330 002 0886

SOFTWARE & APP DEVELOPMENT

Please tell us more about your CSR and approach to adding social value?

AV / DIGITAL SIGNAGE

nybble.co.uk

AUTOMOTIVE SOLUTIONS

“Anybody we see, anywhere that we go, we try and add social value. This has been a core part of our business ethos since we started in 1998, and we have a maxim that we’d like to

Ram Gupta on LinkedIn:

enquiries@nybble.co.uk

UNIFIED BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS

NYBBLECARE

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

security

Guarding and the for

20 y Business Connect Magazine caught up with Saj Kadva, Operations Director of Leisure Guard Security, to find out how the business was doing and to review the services on offer. Saj – please tell us more about Leisure Guard Security? “We’re a Bolton-based business that has been growing over the past 20 years to become a national full-service security provider covering the entire UK. At Leisureguard we can operate as a one stop shop rather than just security guarding services, offering fire prevention solutions, commercial cleaning and all aspects of security.

“Security, whether it is for hotels, retail, construction sites, industrial estates, offices, apartments, or events, is at the heart of our operations, and the foundation for the growth of our company. Our team of fully trained and SIAaccredited guards and officers offer a comprehensive range of security services for domestic and commercial purposes, including patrolling and monitoring on-site, CCTV, keyholding and alarm response, night watches, static or mobile patrolling, door supervision and concierge services.” Are there any specific areas or regions that you cover? “We cover the entire UK, however, we have a particular focus on the North West of England – covering everywhere from Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Yorkshire, The Midlands and further afield. Our skilled team have access to over 450 staff across

the UK, fully trained and SIA-licensed officers available 24/7 to protect our clients, their premises and their assets. “Whether you are a corporate or private customer, we have worked with some of the biggest names and organisations in politics, entertainment, sport and industry.” What sort of new training and services do you offer? “We’ve recently become a Highfield accredited training centre, which is located at our head office in the heart of Bolton, and added Tower Guard to our list of services.

“Our brand new onsite training facility allows us to offer SIA training courses, whether that be for first time license holders or the top up courses, with easy access in the centre of Bolton. We have everything needed in one place to cope with any training demand, including a fully interactive 75” touch screen for presentations and examinations or an array of open space with space saving desks and chairs for any physical Intervention or first aid training. “The centre is also available to hire, whether you need a classroom set up or space for practical demonstrations - we have it covered.” Can you tell us more about your Tower Guard CCTV solution? “Our rapid deployment CCTV Towers

The Leisure Guard Security Team pictured with Madam Mayor Councillor Linda Thomas and her Consort Len Thomas

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

business

public

over

ears

Saj Kadva, Operations Director, Leisure Guard Sercurity

Aparthotels, Marriott, The Chinese Consulate, Vue Cinemas, ASDA, Euro Garages, IBM, CBRE and Sodexo, who all trust us to keep their premises and people safe and secure.” Are there any specific business sectors that you specialise in? are fully independent, highly visible and a strikingly capable deterrent armed with the latest camera and detection gear. They are designed for quick deployment in all terrains, and can run autonomously for 6 weeks on their own internal power source. Without the need for expensive infrastructure such as power, broadband and lighting, they’re proving to be a fantastic deterrent, particularly in construction site theft. “At up to 6m tall they are a big, rugged unit featuring a military grade steel exterior, anti-climb spikes, loud speaker system for two-way audio, high performance PIR sensors, 4G antenna and predator dome. The Tower Guard is fully monitored and we offer a secure log in feature for clients to access through the Tower Guard App.

“We can offer tailored solutions to any sector, but primarily specialise in Construction, Retail and Leisure, and we have an excellent record of supporting projects of all sizes in all different areas and sectors. “In the construction sector for example we work in every conceivable environment and on all types of sites: civil engineering, public infrastructure, new build and refurbishment; and across all kinds of residential, commercial, retail and industrial property.

“Hotel security is another important sector for us, and we have an excellent record of supporting hospitality businesses of all sizes. We work in all environments, from big city-centre hotels to remote rural “At Leisure Guard Security we’re constantly locations. Our experience means that adding to our arsenal of services and you can count on us to understand equipment ensuring as a customer you your needs, both operationally and can rest assured, you’re at the cutting edge in terms of the image you need to of any new developments in the security project. Consequently, we won’t just and safeguarding sector.” take care of all your vital security tasks; we’ll do it in a way that is What kind of customers do you friendly, courteous and unobtrusive. support? “We have a wide range of customers, from leisure-based companies to hospitals and schools, we protect all types of organisations. Major clients include Tenpin, Premier Inn, Staycity Aparthotels, Roomzzz

highly visible deterrent, but we’ll be a far more subtle presence in local communities and on projects where this is required. Ultimately, we know that we’re an extension of your brand, so we’ll always work with the utmost professionalism, safeguarding your business, your reputation and the wellbeing of your organisation.

“We pride ourselves on how we treat our staff and our staff retention is phenomenal, we have had some guys with us over 15 years.

“We have clients from large national chains to smaller independents that all expect and receive a friendly, consistent and quality service.”

“We have once again gained our Investors In People Silver certification as well as signing up with the Armed Forces Covenant and reaching the Bronze recognition on the Employer Recognition Scheme showing our continued support for the armed forces and their families.

Would you like to tell us a little more about some of the accreditations you have?

“We are certified as a Disability Confident Employer and also with MSDUK.”

Find out more - call 0800

035 6607 or email info@leisureguardsecurity.co.uk

leisureguardsecurity.co.uk

“Our hospitality support includes floor walks, room checks, concierge services, reception duties, and VIP delegate assistance. “In high-risk areas we’ll maintain a Leisure Guard (UK) Ltd holds SIA approved contractor status for the provision of Security Guarding, Door Supervision and CCTV services.

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

safety Martyn’s Law - safety introduced, places a legal requirement or ‘duty’ on publicly accessible locations (PAL’s) to protect the public from Terrorism. This means it will likely apply to any place or space to which the public have access.

Figen with Martyn in their last photo together

Martyn Hett sadly lost his life in a terrorist attack along with 21 others at the Manchester Arena in May 2017. Martyn’s Law is a proposed piece of legislation that would form part of the ‘Protect Duty’ which when

For small venues, this may require minimal measures such as providing employees with a free of charge one hour training session in the form of ACT e-learning or putting together a counter terrorism plan.

detailed approach. It consists of five requirements. That spaces and places to which the public have access to: • engage with freely available counter terrorism advice, awareness sessions and training; • conduct vulnerability assessments of their operating places and spaces;

• mitigate the risks identified as vulnerabilities; Martyn’s Law will be a stand-alone legislation and will not be incorporated • put in place a counter-terrorism plan and; into H&S or fire safety policies.

When the legislation is introduced, it is anticipated that there will be a lead in time to implement the above. Aaron Duggan, a former Detective Chief Superintendent and a Director of Portent Solutions Ltd - a risk and crisis management consultancy based in Greater Manchester said. “The ongoing inquiry into the 2017 attack has already identified a number of issues that could have possibly helped mitigate the attack. “One of those issues was the lack of opportunity for staff to practice and exercise their training in a ‘safe’ environment.

For larger companies or more complex • a requirement for local authorities “Plans and training need to be tested and venues, it will require a more holistic, to plan for the threat of terrorism. exercised regularly at all levels to ensure

Why risk management is important as businesses return to work The government recently announced that employees in England are no longer required to work from home. What do employers have to do to keep their workers safe?

The experts at PIB Risk Management have prepared some simple measures which all organisations can consider to help mitigate risks or even remove them completely. Risk Management can help an organisation to increase efficiency, reduce costs and present themselves as a better business to customers, prospects and suppliers. The pandemic has presented many challenges for business and other organisations, this is a perfect example of when organisations with a clear risk management process can continue to run effectively, ensuring the safety of their employees and customers. As businesses slowly return to work, there are some simple risk management measures to apply: Know your business Businesses will need to build on the government guidance with a response that is tailored to their sector, size, need, environment and people. Plan and communicate Many of your colleagues may feel nervous about returning to work. By ensuring that you have thoroughly planned for their return and by effectively communicating these plans you can help reduce anxieties and give

confidence that people are returning to a safe place of work. Some simple considerations:

cleaning routines to match the increase been prominent throughout the pandemic of employees into the premises. it is still important to continue to reinforce Social distancing and face coverings good practice.

• Understand and be clear about the Government guidance for your sector.

These measures may continue to remain a key part of official guidance. All workplaces are different and practices on social distancing and the wearing of face coverings will need to be adapted to suit your circumstances. Where possible reduce the workplace density through homeworking.

• Carry out a risk assessment and keep a record of this if you have more than 5 employees, for more than 50 employees you should publish your risk assessment on your website. • Do not rush, continue to encourage remote working where possible. Prepare premises Once you have completed and communicated your return to work plan it is important that your premises are prepared for the return of your colleagues, customers and visitors. You should consider a deep clean of your building/site with the appropriate products and increase

Access controls Controlling visitor/staff access to your premises is key to ensuring the safety of everyone. Again, this will vary from business to business and settings that see a regular flow of customers and visitors will need to consider how to encourage social distancing. Hygiene and cleaning Good hygiene and cleaning practices are two of the most important tools to prevent spread of COVID-19. Whilst messaging around these areas has

Ensuring good ventilation of the workplace, including the use of air conditioning, can also help reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus. Managing health risks Everyone needs to remain alert to potential symptoms of COVID-19 and to take appropriate action if they suffer symptoms or are exposed to people with symptoms. Test kits should be encouraged when appropriate. Mental health As an employer it is your duty of care to protect people’s mental health. Some employees may suffer from fear and anxiety about infection, continued social isolation, and even illness or bereavement. Businesses should be alert to these factors and put measures in place to support their employees. The earlier a problem can be tackled, the less impact it will have.

in your business that when an incident occurs, a business or organisation and their staff are in the best place to respond and deal with it. “The determination of Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray, to bring about change in the way we view our responsibilities to protect people from terrorism should be widely applauded. “Martyn’s Law is a proposed piece of legislation that would form part of the “Protect Duty” which will require any venue to have in place an antiterrorism plan which is similar to a fire evacuation plan.

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February/March 2022

have a vital role to play. “Portent Solutions can help you prepare for this legislation; we have a background in law enforcement, managing community safety and crisis management across Greater Manchester and the Northwest region spanning three decades. Our initial review of risk to your business is completely free”.

The NEW Public Access Trauma Kit (PAcT kit) is designed for people with no medical training to save a life

“You should remain alert but not alarmed, if concerned you should report suspicious activity online at act.campaign.gov.uk”

“It is accepted that this legislation will not prevent a determined terrorist attack, however, it will put organisations in the best possible place to deal with any incident and help save lives. Preventing Terrorism is everyone’s business, local communities, businesses in the private sector and public organisations all

info@portentsolutions.co.uk

07771 578384 portentsolutions.co.uk

Giving you peace of mind

The PAcT kit is designed for use in an emergency when every second counts, and has been created as a direct result of the Arena bombing in Manchester. A casualty who is losing a lot of blood must be treated within a couple of minutes! The PAcT kit is also equipped with an easy to read ‘Trauma Card’ that gives very clear instructions on putting a casualty into the ‘recovery position’.

Guide Security provide a comprehensive range of fire, access, intruder and CCTV systems which can benefit from being integrated onto a single digital platform. Established in 1996, and founded on the principles of service excellence, we specialise in the design, installation, maintenance and monitoring of electronic security solutions across a wide range of sectors. Unlike some, we are not tied to any manufacturers of security technologies or use any third party monitoring services, hence committed to delivering the most independent, appropriate and effective security solutions available in the market today for our clients. Our value-added approach to security and our attention to detail makes Guide Security the most obvious choice for those serious about their security requirements. Security is what we do, unrivalled expertise with the latest cutting-edge technology. We are small enough to care, and big enough to deliver.

The recovery position is a life saving must for non medical trained people who if asked, would be able to make a difference in an emergency. The ‘Trauma card’ also shows how to stop bleeding using the super-simple STAT Tourniquet from a severe wound or amputation in 5 easy to follow steps. The STAT Tourniquet has been chosen because its use requires NO previous training, and is extremely quick to apply, ensuring multiple casualties are attended to very quickly! It’s easy to use because it can be applied in the same way as a simple cable tie. PLUS it has a timer device

to let paramedics know how long it has been on the casualty. A hugely beneficial advantage that no other tourniquet offers.

Which venues should have a PAcT kit? Bars, restaurants, and any venue that comes under the heading of hospitality. Also larger venues including stadiums, arenas and airports. Anywhere large groups of people gather. PAcT kits should not be confused with first aid kits. First aid kits are not suitable for mass casualty and terrorist type attacks. There are laws going through parliament right now that emphasise the importance of all types of venues where large numbers of people come together being better prepared. These laws are as a direct result of the Arena bombing in 2017 where 22 people lost their lives because insufficient medical preparation had been made. A phone call, or email is all it takes to ensure your venue is legally compliant.

Help is at hand, please contact us: Contact:

Bipin Patel on 07973 168857

or email: bipin.patel@guidesecurity.co.uk to arrange a review of your electronic security requirements.

guidesecurity.co.uk

pact@steroplast.co.uk 0161 902 3030 www.steroplast.co.uk

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February/March 2022

telecoms Are you

ready for the great copper switch-off?

Prepare for change

Listen up

In the coming months and years, changes are happening in the world of telecoms to replace telephone lines as we know and love them.

Back in 2015, Openreach (in conjunction with those lovely folk at Ofcom) drew up a roadmap to transform this copper-based communication infrastructure and replace it with ultra-reliable and ultrafast fibre-optic cable. Good news indeed, because if there is anything you want and need your internet to be, it’s fast and reliable.

This doesn’t mean we’re saying ‘see you later’ to your landline, but it does mean that traditional copperbased phone lines and broadband services are slowly being phased out, with a target for the full switch-off and replacement by 2025. In their place will be brand new fibre-optic cables, and although the target for the switch and replacement is a few years away, the changes are actually happening right now as you read this article. For the sake of your business, it’s important you know what the changes are, and how they might affect your operations.

Hold the phones You might not be aware of it – and you might not even care, to be honest – but up until now, your business has very likely used some kind of copper telephone line service (ISDN or Analogue PSTN) to make and receive calls. You’ve also likely relied on a copper-based broadband service to keep your operations alive and kicking online via ADSL or FTTC (often known as fibre broadband or superfast broadband). The problem is, the use of copper is not the most reliable way to transmit data. The longer the cable, the worse the signal, for a start. In addition, if the copper comes into contact with heat or damp (welcome to the unpredictable great British weather), the more it suffers the risk of damage. Makes a little more sense why you’ve likely spent times in the office swearing at the inexplicability of your slow-moving internet now, doesn’t it?

In line with switching to fibre, many businesses have already started making some changes. If that’s you – brilliant. If it’s not you – read on.

Make the call Those who have been aware of the changes (every organisation should have an IT geek on the team) have begun their adaptation by moving their phone lines and internet access to new lP (Internet Protocol) based services. Voice over IP (VoIP) telephone systems are now becoming the standard way to communicate. Changing to a VoIP system will, as standard, increase the capability for your staff to work remotely and make and receive calls just as if they were in the office. Great news if there’s another lockdown (every cloud…). If you make one call to better your business today, let it be to a provider who can set you up and start you off with VoIP. This is especially the case if you know that your phone line is more than 10 years old, just for info!

And what of the Internet? Recently, Ofcom announced that 13.5 million homes and business premises (which has been the same thing for many of us since 2020) are now enabled for full fibre-optic

broadband. But how do you know you’re ready to make this change right now? Most likely it will be because you have download speeds of 80Mbs or less. If you’re not sure this is the case, think about how long ago it was that you swore at your laptop. The speed of download on offer with full fibre-optic cable can be up to 1Gbs - more than 10 times that of the old copper-based broadband services. More speed – more efficiency in your business. Come away from the copper, people – and remember that it’s not just about your phones and computers. This stuff affects things like your card processing terminals, too. Why run the risk of losing out on somebody trying to pay you?

But seriously… At nxcoms, we’re known for our approachability, and so we’ll often joke about the issues faced by businesses when it comes to their communications, but we’re professionals, too, so it’s only right that we give you the information you need. In this instance, if you’re sitting there and thinking you’ll make any required changes at some point in 2025 when you absolutely need to, please do think seriously about the reliability of additional services you may have, such a BT Redcare line for an alarm system or fire panel, or an emergency phone line that you may have installed somewhere such as in a lift. An emergency really isn’t the time when you want to be finding out that your most fundamental of communication systems is not just ineffective, but a potential hazard, too.

What you need to do now Much as we’d love to tell to sit back and relax whilst this all happens around you, that wouldn’t be the great advice we’ve come to be known for. If you haven’t already done so, put a plan in place to upgrade your phone system to VoIP. Worried about a disruption in service and the likelihood of losing your landline number in the process? Don’t be. Good suppliers have been sorting this out for businesses for months and

even years, now. Both service and existing numbers can be seamlessly transferred over for you. The to do list doesn’t stop there. Next, check with your provider what kind of broadband line you currently have and ask whether an analogue PSTN line is required to run the service. If this is the case, then it’s time to start thinking about a move to a full fibre-optic solution.

Andy Thompson Nxcoms nxcoms.co.uk

Wondering who to call when you need all of this sorting? There’s a reason we wrote this article for you. Pick up the phone (if it works) and give us a call on:

0161 711 1100 or email

fibre@nxcoms.co.uk nxcoms.co.uk

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February/March 2022

exporting

From mutineers to

trade agr

February/March 2022

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eements

You might be undertaking the work here, providing a service here, but if you are bringing in revenue from overseas then that counts as an export, for instance tourism. Whether you are in goods or services, large or small business, the CPTPP can provide you with a significant opening to expand your market potential. You have an opportunity now to get ahead of the game by starting your planning and being ready to exploit the undoubted publicity that will be generated by this process. It is a huge potential market place that we all hope will have Britain close to its Pacific centre.

Why is Adamstown so relevant to future British export opportunities? It is the capital of a small island that is only two square miles in area and has a population of just fifty people. That remote island group, in the middle of Pacific ocean thousands of miles from its neighbours, is the Pitcairn Islands, a British overseas territory first spotted by British sailors two hundred and fifty five years ago and settled by mutineers from HMS Bounty over two hundred and thirty years ago. So, thanks to the infamous mutiny, Britain has a Pacific territory. Notwithstanding the wondrous logic of this basis of qualification, the UK is currently still negotiating for accession to the CPTPP. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership is a major trading opportunity. There are currently eleven signatories who have combined economies representing 13.4% of global gross domestic product at approximately £10 trillion making it one of the world’s largest free trade areas (by GDP). Singapore is Chair for 2022 and the other members are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru and Vietnam. The UK already has trade agreements with seven of the members, but joining the CPTPP would

expand on those agreements and take trading opportunities much further, increasing the opportunity for tariff free trade and services across this dynamic region.

There is a common misconception that it is harder to sell into the Pacific region than, say, to Europe; it may be different but not necessarily more difficult.

This would be particularly valuable in relation to services where the UK is already the world’s second largest exporter. In addition, the Philippines, Thailand, Taiwan and South Korea are all potential applicants, which would add considerably to the overall benefits for all the members.

Many of the issues in exporting are exactly the same, and there are just as many potential solutions and people to provide advice.

Following Brexit, UK Government policy is targeting trade agreements in high growth regions, for instance Asia and the Pacific Rim. With these areas being forecast to be amongst the highest growth areas in the world, the CPTPP is a valuable opportunity to help meet the UK’s growth aspirations. So why am I mentioning this munificent potential bounty? How is it relevant to businesses here? The CPTPP is a great example of why businesses should give serious consideration to exporting into the region. There would be tariff free trade across the vast majority of product areas and for services.

As with any exporting opportunity, there is plenty of help available from the Department for International Trade, from Chambers of Commerce and from a wide variety of advisors. Don’t risk missing the boat, its time to set a course to your exporting successes.

One example is that there have been widely reported issues with increases in freight costs, but those have been much worse coming from the Far East to Europe than the other way. If this concerns you then take advice from any good freight company. Moving products is an essential part of the export process for goods, but early planning ensures no shocks and gives you the opportunity to get your pricing right. You may even find a distributor or customer that is willing to buy ex works. This has numerous advantages, reducing your risk, financing requirements and administrative burden. Obviously, this will not be a problem if you are in services. Some people providing services don’t realise that they are exporting.

Tony Goodman MBE is a successful exporter and has

been doing so through a variety of different businesses. He is currently Marketing Advisor at Forest and Co who specialise in offering guidance on branding, exporting and sales:

www.forestandco.com Exporting continues on next page

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

Continued from previous page

February/March 2022

exporting

DKT Allseas launches first

inland service connecting Liverpool to the Midlands

DKT Allseas (part of the Allseas Global Logistics Group) has announced a new multi-modal extension to complement its pioneering China Xpress sea freight liner service that successfully launched earlier this year. The new service, started Monday 4th October 2021, runs five days a week between Liverpool and Freightliner’s Birmingham Terminal. It forms part of the China Xpress service evolution, moving from sea to land and providing a sustainable solution for cargo owners to get their goods to their end destination. The new inland service carries 26 x 60ft wagons enabling DKT Allseas to move up to 76 x 20ft or 26 x 40ft and 26 x 20ft containers of freight per day for its customers. At a time when

road hauliers are struggling to source enough drivers to service the demand, rail can offer a fast and reliable alternative to road transport.

from the Far East direct into the heart of the UK’s cargo owning community. An initiative born out of necessity and frustration to provide relief to customers facing increased ocean David Huck, Managing Director at Peel freight rates and reduced reliability Ports said: “We have worked with DKT due to the knock-on impacts of the Allseas since February this year and global pandemic. since its inception, the China Xpress liner service has gone from strength to “As those frustrations permeate the strength over a very short period. UK with the widely publicised HGV driver shortages, this new rail service “Launched as a temporary supply further enhances the China Xpress by chain critical service, fast forward nine providing another tangible logistics months and we are delighted to see solution to our customers. this now part of an established route positioning the Port of Liverpool as a “Another significant upside is the viable call for Far East services.” amount of traffic this service will remove from road further enhancing Darren Wright, Managing Director at Allseas approach to sustainable DKT Allseas said: “The China Xpress logistics.” service was the first of its kind to offer a direct service call, providing a gateway Since the initial sailing in February,

Ocean freight space available:

Shipping from China direct to the UK New services added to our container cargo sailings between China and the UK, from Shanghai and Ningbo direct to Liverpool.

• Est. 30-day transit time • Direct sailing from China to Liverpool UK • Specialist equipment available in Shanghai • Competitive rates

For bookings & enquiries:

T: 0161 272 8989 E: manchester@allseasglobal.com

DKT Allseas has expanded its China Xpress service from one to three ports in China direct to Liverpool, as well as, introduced a new service call from China direct to the USA, both east and west coast. The intersection of both COVID-19 and Brexit over the past 18 months has resulted in driver shortages which have had a negative impact on many supply chains. Road haulage is an essential part of the economy, accounting for around 90% of all surface transport in the UK. This new inland train service solution by DKT Allseas will alleviate some of these pressures to get goods across the country in the most efficient way by providing a cheaper, faster, more reliable and more sustainable solution for the cargo owner.

February/March 2022

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

Steve Swinburn promoted to

Managing Director of

(middle) Bryn Atherton, Commercial Director, Allseas Global Logistics (right) Matt Dawson

Allseas win at BIFA Freight Services Awards In other news Allseas were declared winners of the Ocean Services Award at the BIFA Freight Services Awards that took place in January at The Brewery, City of London. Hosted by rugby legend Matt Dawson, the event was a high profile calendar date in the Logistics sector diary. The past year has been difficult for ocean freight with schedules and equipment availability impacted by many factors, and the pro-active support along with significant investment led to Allseas being able to offer an alternative solution to the failing market norm, resulting in a successful and viable alternative for their customers.

Harbour International Freight Promotion comes at time of great expansion for the Manchester based business Harbour International Freight have announced that Steve Swinburn, who was previously General Manager, has been promoted to UK Managing Director. The promotion comes as Harbour reaffirms its commitment to the North West economy with the opening of its new 43,000 sq.ft. custom built warehouse in Trafford Park, taking its Manchester capacity to over 65,000 sq.ft. The move means that Harbour’s UK, Ireland, and European freight services come together under one roof with its newest offering,

Harbour Sameday, which has enhanced their dedicated courier and UK direct haulage division. The move from Eccles also adds a vastly expanded freight storage capacity, allowing access to a new customer base across the North West and the whole of the UK. Steve commented: “I’m delighted to be leading the company through our expansion plans. “We have over the past few years grown rapidly on the back on the pandemic and Brexit by offering old and new customers alike the personal touch and attention to detail that is unfortunately lacking in the marketplace. “Growing our already strong UK

Steve Swinburn, UK Managing Director, Harbour International Freight

network Pall-Ex services along with our own Irish Sea services further is the number one priority but we are also looking forward to expanding our European and Scandinavian groupage services in collaboration with our long-term and new additional partners through the region.”

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February/March 2022

IT It’s all change at Microsoft!

Navigate the new pricing and don’t get left out for what you use throughout the year. It will also lock in the cheaper price for the year.

Why purchase licences through Nybble?

From early January there have been some major changes with Microsoft pricing, directly affecting your 365 licences. It’s important to understand these changes and to mitigate the price rises and maintain flexibility. Microsoft have now introduced a new pricing model across their Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider Programme (CSP). The previous options were a legacy billing method which included a number of separate packages – Microsoft 365, Office 365, EM+S E3/E5, Windows 10 E3/E5, Windows 365, Power Platform, Dynamics 365. Also their ‘New Commerce Experience’ (NCE) which included Azure consumption, Reservations, Software Subscriptions and Licences for Perpetual Software. From 10 January 2022 Microsoft have made all the above mentioned offerings available through the NCE, and their plan is to discontinue Legacy billing from 1 March 2022.

What’s different? Currently under CSP customers agree to a 12 month term, which is billed either monthly or annually. With Legacy billing you have the flexibility to use less or more licences from month to month. That means if your business changes and less licences are required you’d only get charged for those that you’d use. Under NCE, the billing still offers the 12 month solution, but once you settle on a number of licences required you cannot decrease them. You can increase them though, but

if you do you cannot return to your smaller requirement. There is an option for flexibility, but that comes at a price – approximately 20% extra for the ability to change month to month. On the flipside, if your requirements are stable over the next few years, there is a 36 month option available.

Price increases The advantage of the 12 and 36 month options are that prices are locked for the duration. This is particularly relevant in that in August 2021 Microsoft announced an update to their commercial pricing for Microsoft 365, the first substantial increase since Office 365 was released in June 2011. This change will go into effect on 1 March 2022, and will affect all products that were previously under Legacy billing.

How can we help?

As well as saving you increased fees and retaining flexibility over your options over the next year, here at Nybble we can prepare your business for the increased prices and locked in choices when you do need to jump to NCE in 12 months. It’s very important that you review what your business requirements are, especially as you will then need to stick with those subscriptions for the following year at least. When we review licence requirements for our customers it is far easier to change things on Legacy rather than NCE, and by creating an extra year to thoroughly review your licensing requirements means that we have the time to work with our customers choosing exactly the correct products for their business needs.

By going through ourselves for the licences this software and the support we offer is absolutely free, and by using the software to fine tune your requirements using Legacy we can ensure that by the time you need to use NCE you are only paying for the licences you absolutely need.

In summary By moving to Nybble before 1 March 2022, you can take advantage of the following: 1. Lock in current pricing 2. Keep Flexible Terms 3. Use our Free Smarter SaaS healthcheck

How can we decide on the correct Microsoft package? At Nybble we have created a fantastic piece of software called ‘Smarter SaaS’. This allows us to have an overview, a healthcheck if you like, on your whole tenancy, to ensure that you’re using and maximising your licenses through Microsoft.

This will offer a complete review. The current recommendation is to stay It will check you are using all the Apps on Legacy billing. So, if you move your licences to Nybble prior to 1 March 2022, you will have the ability to create Find out more a brand new legacy subscription. - connect with This means a new 12 month flexible Ram Gupta account subscription fixing the on LinkedIn: current price for a year. This could be phone absolutely vital. First things first, legacy billing will end on 28 February 2022. Apart from the price increases Microsoft are promising, we think it’s imperative to stay on Legacy and create a brand new subscription. This will enable you to retain that flexibility, allowing you to increase and decrease licences from month to month and only pay

as purchased, that they have been downloaded and are being used by your team as intended. It will give us a comprehensive report on how you are using your Microsoft 365 licences, so we can then offer you an informed decision on how to get maximum benefit as a business moving forward.

Ram Gupta Nybble nybble.co.uk

MANAGED IT SOLUTIONS UNIFIED BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS

0330 002 0886

SOFTWARE & APP DEVELOPMENT

AV / DIGITAL SIGNAGE

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AUTOMOTIVE SOLUTIONS

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February/March 2022

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February/March 2022

digital marketing Misconceptions about digital marketing - let’s clear the air Digital marketing has been our specialism for many years, but it has always been surprising how many misconceptions still tend to surround this area of marketing. You might be wondering why I’m writing about this, and why it’s going into this business magazine. The reason is simple - I want to clear the air about some of these misconceptions, as well as to offer something at the end. The first misconception I’d like to clear up is the idea that, ‘I don’t need digital marketing’. Now, while this isn’t necessarily wrong, it’s most definitely not right. You don’t need shoes to run, but they certainly help! When it comes to expediting growth, the best way to do that is by working with experts. Hiring architects will significantly increase the value you’ll get and reduce the time it’ll take to get that value. On top of that, it gives you time to focus on other aspects of your business - meaning you grow different branches simultaneously!

really just tossing time, effort and money down the drain! The reason companies offer multiple services is because they’ve got specialists handling those services. It’s not a money making scheme - copywriters, for example, aren’t as well-versed in using graphic design software in the way that graphic designers are. That means low quality products churned out slowly because that person is learning how to use it as they go along. People spend years learning their respective fields, and it’s the reason that they’re the SPECIALISTS! I’ve said before that if you’ve not got a website, you’re losing out on an obscene amount of business. And it’s only becoming more detrimental by the day! But a website will never be a plug-and-play option. They require constant maintenance to ensure that they remain relevant and active as well as providing content that continues to draw people in while keeping up-to-date.

If you do decide to work with an agency (highly advised!) or with freelancers, the next point is always something to keep in mind: There is very little value in hiring one person to do the job of two.

A perfect example is a website like Amazon, which is permanently upgrading its offerings, front page listings and so on. A website (when handled correctly!) can be the difference between 10 customers and 100 customers.

The notion of ‘Jack of All Trades’ is

With that being said, it’s also

important to learn about the value of social media accounts, especially if you have a younger audience who might spend more time online.

I understand that these misconceptions exist for a reason, but I’m here to do my part and try to dispel them.

Social media is becoming the lunch table of the digital world, and finding a seat at the table early is going to be a make-or-break for many companies, especially those in competitive industries.

That’s why I’d like to offer a free PPC trial for you to get a feel of what high quality digital marketing is like without the worry of where your funds will go.

It goes without saying that social media requires monitoring to see what works and what doesn’t, but the importance of doing that regularly is absolutely vital.

If you want to start growing, get in touch for a no-obligations chat and start seeing change that doesn’t cost anything! With our no-frills, passionate and straight-talking team, you know you’ll receive honest reports that show you exactly what’s going on, and that you’ll never be in the dark.

Algorithms and rules change every time you blink nowadays, and something as simple as one # too many can result in far fewer people seeing your content. The other key is to remain relevant and relatable. Social media is a space where many people feel more vulnerable - this is where they connect with their friends and family, so anything which vaguely smacks of an advert will very quickly be skipped over.

In a time where it’s so easy to misinform people, we’re here to do our part and show you true transparency.

Scan the QR code below and let’s chat!

A good piece of advice is to make sure that you have fun doing something, and that will translate across in everything you do. Please understand that I’m by no means trying to fear-monger any sort of panic-buying the services of a digital marketing agency - I’m really not!

Henri Scott Vancula Agency vancula.com

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

networking Lunch with the Business Catalyst Club construction and property to cybersecurity, marketing to Insurance, Law and Finance to Banking, and the list goes on. “All we look for are quality people at the right end of the company or organisation with a positive attitude to growing their business who want meet and do business in a relaxed yet dynamic setting with likeminded people.” Are you just based in the North West?

Business Connect recently attended the January 2022 Manchester Business Catalyst Club Lunch and spoke to MD Graham Shiers about the club. Graham – how are things going with the Business Catalyst Club now Covid restrictions have lifted? “Zoom and other online platforms were a great way of staying connected and keeping in touch with both old and new contacts during the pandemic - not too

many years ago that just would not have been possible.

aimed at decision makers, and focusing on building relationships rather than selling.

“However, there’s absolutely “Also, we’re so much more than no doubt that most people are desperate, not to mention delighted, just networking. At each Lunch we provide a platform for companies to get back to face-to-face. seeking private investment to pitch, “Our events were always popular, plus we highlight a number of but since lockdown ended late last opportunities and deals that come year the demand for places at The across our desk. And the food is Business Catalyst Club Lunches has great!” simply exploded.” So, what makes you different? “Firstly, it’s an invitation-only event

What types of opportunities do you feature? “We matchmake companies seeking private equity at the Angel level with investor contacts looking for new opportunities, so the appetite in that respect is quite wide.

“We operate in Manchester and Leeds. We host four Lunches a year in each city and between them attract an audience from across the M62 corridor and also regularly attract attendees from London, Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield and further afield.” How do people get an invitation? “The Lunches are invitation only. Guests can attend once, free of charge, after which it’s an annual membership. Our members can invite a decision maker guest on each occasion. “For more information visit www.BusinessCatalystClub.co.uk or alternatively contact me for a chat on 07818 675310, or email graham@BusinessCatalyst Club.co.uk

“We also introduce and broker business sales and disposals, Buyins and Buy-outs, property and land deals and are receiving an increasing number of requests and enquiries regarding acquisitions across a wide range of sectors.”

Upcoming Leeds Lunch dates

Are you Sector specific?

Thursday 26 May 2022 Thursday 15 September 2022 Thursday 24 November 2022

“Absolutely not. We have members and guests representing everything from IT to engineering,

Upcoming Manchester Lunch dates Tuesday 26 April 2022 Thursday 7 July 2022 Thursday 20 October 2022

L-R Paul Mirage, Business Connect Magazine, Laura Weldon, and Graham Shiers, Catalyst Club Director

For more information or to arrange a guest invitation please contact Graham Shiers at graham@BusinessCatalystClub.co.uk or visit www.BusinessCatalystClub.co.uk

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

apprenticeships #BuildTheFuture with a Salford City College Apprentice Apprenticeships at Salford City College work with over 500 different organisations, supporting them to help overcome their skills gaps by delivering high-quality apprenticeships and work-based learning provisions. The 2021 Learning Awards, hosted by the Learning & Performance Institute, awarded us with the UK ‘Learning Provider of the Year’ award, showing the significance, quality and impact that our apprenticeship delivery has for businesses. Over 93% of employers who currently work with Apprenticeships at Salford City College have used their services more than once, and 93% of Salford City College apprentices believe the skills they acquire while on an apprenticeship programme have a very positive impact on their future career.

National Apprenticeship Week is upon us again. Between the 7 and 13 February 2022 we celebrate all that is great about apprenticeships, with the key theme this year being #BuildTheFuture. When our colleagues in the Department for Education confirmed the theme, they could not have been more aware of how appropriate this would be, as we begin to see the end of the pandemic restrictions and look toward a future reduced Covid-19 limitations. The future of any business is a critical consideration for all owners or senior leaders, irrespective of business size and type. However, the distraction of both Brexit and the pandemic has meant many organisations have focused mainly on short term challenges over the last 18-24 months. The huge business pressures presented by both of these significant events have dominated short-term business planning and priorities, with a huge number battling to survive into the next day, let alone well into the future. However, it is time we return our focus to the long game, harnessing the vast potential and

opportunities that will be presented to us post-pandemic.

Building the Future: Building Talent Workforce planning is a vital component of any business strategy. Ensuring we have the talent, skills and expertise required to achieve business aspirations is essential. In a recent CIPD report, it was suggested that across the UK, 39% of employers have hard-to-fill vacancies, impacting their business performance. In some sectors such as adult care and hospitality, the problem is even more acute with 51% of employers reporting significant shortages of appropriate and suitable candidates. The Open University believe the situation is a lot worse, stating that 91% of organisations have struggled to find employees with the right skills in the last twelve months, and 53% of those organisations believe the situation will deteriorate further over the next twelve months. The CIPD, in the same report,

suggested that many employers are in a ‘wait and see mode’, believing that skills shortages will resolve once we are ‘back to normal’ postpandemic.

Now is the time to build your organisation’s future, by developing the talent you need Over half of employers in 2021 indicated that work-based learning and apprenticeship provision would be vital to the future of their organisation; this is almost a 10% increase from 2020. Undoubtedly, the time has come to cement the future of your business by focusing on developing the right talent for your organisation. The breadth of provision available across the apprenticeship sector is broader than ever before, supporting new talent into your business and helping current employees develop their skills and knowledge to fill the skills gaps in your organisation.

profit, growth and market share, our social obligation and commitment is a key performance indicator that sets the best firms apart from the rest. It is vital for both the social and economic wellbeing of the nation that our 16-24-year-old population have access to not only the best educational experiences but also a wide range of high-quality employment and apprenticeship opportunities. We must allow this generation to build their futures, to develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours they need to thrive in their chosen career. This can only happen if we provide the opportunities and environment for this.

What better time than National Apprenticeship Week to make this commitment for your business?

Commitment to Generation Z

To find out more and #BuildTheFuture of your business, contact the Apprenticeship Team today by emailing

We must also remember that in amongst our business aspirations of

apprenticeships@salfordcc. ac.uk or calling 0161 631 5555

February/March 2022

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

wellbeing

Why are you so tired all the time? Many people complain of feeling tired all the time, with as many as 90% of adults saying that they don’t get enough sleep. But feeling tired isn’t just about the hours spent asleep. Quality of sleep is also a significant factor is how well rested and healthy a person feels.

help you feel less tired and overwhelmed. Some people are reactive, which may well result in them working on several tasks at once, starting a new one as soon as they’re asked, rather than complete the task already in hand.

Let’s consider some reasons as to why you could be so tired all the time.

A chaotic and often unproductive use of their time! It can be more beneficial to list all that needs to be done and then plan accordingly.

It’s important to check if there’s an underlying health condition. Feeling continually tired, with low energy levels may be indicative of a health-related issue, so it’s worth booking a check-up with your family doctor.

Delegating is often a useful step, which at home may include giving children responsibility for some chores. This can help clear your mind and encourage others to become more appreciative of what they have.

Boredom and low mood can result in reduced energy levels, as well as feelings of apathy, inertia and ongoing tiredness. Notice if this continues, as an inability to be interested, motivated and inspired by what’s happening around you can be symptomatic of depression and other health-related concerns.

Being proactive at work may involve becoming less obliging and handing over work to others, perhaps resulting in them learning new skills.

Stress may be an important factor in how tired you feel. Living with constant stress puts your mental and physical wellbeing at risk and, if left unchecked, can become a cause for serious concern. Being stressed can impact on a good night’s sleep, with those worries playing on your mind and disturbing your ability to relax and rest. Notice if your dreams have become troublesome or disturbing. They can be an indicator that you have problems playing on your mind. Supporting healthy habits can improve your wellbeing and quality of sleep. Good dietary habits, with fresh fruit and vegetables, less junk and processed foods, plenty of good hydration, more water and less caffeine and pop drinks are important. As is fresh air and regular exercise, often an important way to take a break and manage stress levels. Becoming more organised can

Sometimes hiring help at home, maybe with tasks like cleaning, ironing and gardening, or at work, with admin, book-keeping, PR, can free up some time and be money well spent. Certain areas benefit from being kept free of clutter, even if there’s a backlog of impending work that needs your attention. When you’re in need of a good night’s sleep it’s especially important to be disciplined about having a clear bedroom, ensuring you have a calm refuge that’s tidy and peaceful. Turn off your tech, leave your phone charging elsewhere, enjoy a relaxing bath or shower and unwind in the peace and calm of your own, special place. Also check on how comfortable is your bedroom? The quality of your mattress, pillows and linen can make all the difference. Clean sheets are top of many people’s wish list, perhaps with a little lavender in the final rinse. Also, the temperature of your bedroom. We sleep better in a slightly cooler bedroom

The change in seasons can impact on how well we sleep, with the dark, cold nights of autumn and winter often introducing a hibernating mentality. Invest time and effort into making your home cosy, bright and cheerful, paying particular attention to lighting. Lamps, wall lights and candles are often more soothing than severe, overhead lighting. Create a cosy atmosphere that supports a relaxing mood. Throughout the colder months, wrap up warm and get outside to top up your vitamin D and daylight levels. Autumn and winter can be a time to enjoy cosy evenings shared with family and friends. A brisk walk kicking through fallen leaves and then home to a warming soup or casserole, followed by board games or a good book can be a positive way to unwind and enjoy the darker seasons. And during the lighter days and nights take opportunities for walks, outdoor sports, activities and entertaining. Plant your garden, maybe even growing your own fruit and vegetables. All ways to support an active lifestyle, whilst also being an investment in your health and wellbeing. Finding balance in life is not always easy. Sometimes we may be too busy, other times worryingly quiet, with both situations being equally stressful, so affecting our ability to sleep well. Being over-tired or under-occupied can be helped by finding ways to utilise your time well, schedule breaks, invest in fun, exercise and

reinforce your sense of feeling valued and valuable. Adopting good self-care and quality ‘me time’ can be a satisfying approach to good health, wellbeing and hence be a refreshing way to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Susan Leigh MNCH (ACC)

South Manchester counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer and media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support. She’s author of 3 books, ‘Dealing with Stress, Managing its Impact’, ‘101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday’ and ‘Dealing with Death, Coping with the Pain’, all on Amazon and with easy to read sections, tips and ideas to help you feel more positive about your life. To order a copy or for more information, help and free articles visit www.lifestyletherapy.net For more articles, information or to make contact please call 0161 928 7880 or visit

www.lifestyletherapy.net

BUSINESS connect MAGAZINE

February/March 2022

diary dates 4 Networking

BNI Graphene Manchester

Complete range of different styles of networking, both virtual and face-to-face. Contact www.4networking.biz

Weekly every Weds - includes hot lunch 10.00am - 12.30pm Venue Revolution de Cuba, 11 Peter Street, Manchester M2 5QR Cost £TBC

---------------------------------------

Business over Breakfast

Trading Alliance)

Contact

Online networking using Remo:

---------------------------------------

BITA South West every Tuesday 15 Feb, 22 Feb, 1 Mar 8.00am - 9.00am

BNI Vision Cheadle

1 Day Business Expo

Venues

Virtual meetings held all over the Northwest, Greater Manchester and Manchester City Centre

30 Jun 2022 9.00am - 3.00pm Venue King’s Dock, Port of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 4FP Cost FREE (pre-registration required).

Cost

FREE for virtual meetings

Contact

www.bobclubs.com Tracy Heatley 07812 076946

BITA Liverpool every other Thursday 10 Feb, 24 Feb, 10 Mar 8.00am - 9.00am FREE until further notice

Contact

Live face to face events: BITA London Monthly Social Networking 10 Feb 6.00pm - 8.00pm, every 2nd Thurs Venue The Rising Sun, 61 Carter Lane, Fleet Street, London EC4V 5DY Cost FREE

page

BITA Liverpool Monthly Social Networking 10 Feb 5.00pm - 7.00pm, every 2nd Thursday Venue The Bar and Grill, Brunswick Street, Liverpool L2 0UU Cost FREE

Dynamic Networking Zoom Networking Cost FREE Contact

Business Fairs

FSB - Federation of Small Businesses

Annual business fairs across 4 Northern sites. Free to visit, all sectors welcome to exhibit (see details page 4).

Contact

---------------------------------------

Regular monthly breakfast networking with high calibre speakers

£25

Contact

edwinacurrie@sky.com www.highpeakbusinessclub.co.uk

K-Club Entrepreneur’s networking breakfast 2 Speakers + Full English Breakfast

---------------------------------------

Dates TBC - please see website 7.30am - 10.00am Venue AJ Bell Stadium, Barton-Upon-Irwell, Salford M30 7EY

BITA Joint Manchester+Leeds Lunch 31 4 Mar 11.30am - 5.00pm Venue The Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Place, Salford, Manchester M3 5LH Cost £80+VAT (BITA members get discounted tickets).

Business Catalyst Club

Cost

£39+VAT

Manchester and Leeds Networking Lunches

Contact

Manchester - 2022 dates 28 Apr, 7 Jul, 20 Oct

Amanda Manson 07754 069 829 www.k-club.co.uk

---------------------------------------

BITA Isle of Man Lunch May TBC Venue Comis Hotel, Mount Murray Back Road, Douglas, Isle of Man IM4 2HT Cost £TBC

Leeds - 2022 dates 10 Feb, 26 May, 15 Sep, 24 Nov

page

Contact

Paul Whitnell paulw@bita.ie Laura laura@bita.ie www.bita.ie

page

14 Lancashire Business Expo

Costs, Timings, Venues and booking details contact organisers below: Contact

Graham Shiers 07818 675 310 www.businesscatalystclub.co.uk

---------------------------------------

2022

1 Day Business Expo 25 Mar 2022 9.00am - 3.00pm Venue Preston Guildhall, Lancaster Road, Preston PR1 1HT Cost

FREE (pre-registration required).

Contact

shoutexpo.com

---------------------------------------

Business for Breakfast

BNI Alchemy Didsbury

BforB Networking

---------------------------------------

Weekly every Thurs - includes cooked breakfast 6.30am - 9.00am Venue Northenden Golf Club, Palatine Road, Manchester M22 4FR Cost £TBC

Venues

Virtual events are currently held at Manchester, Didsbury, Stockport and Cheshire

M Postcode Business Hub

Cost

£TBC

Check website for further details

Contact

www.bforb.co.uk or email centralservices@bforb.co.uk

Contact

Andy Walsh 0161 250 5040

---------------------------------------

14 Shout! Network Fortnightly networking. Breakfast Included. Venues in Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Liverpool. Website listings due soon.

-------------------------------------

Contact Graham Shiers 07818 675 310 www.businesscatalystclub.co.uk

Nicola McCormick 07929 671755 nicola.mccormick@pro-manchester.co.uk www.pro-manchester.co.uk

page

TBC - Please see website 8.00am - 10.00am Venue Chapel en le Frith Golf Club, Manchester Road, Chapel en le Frith, High Peak SK23 9UH Cost

--------------------------------------Hot topic breakfasts, Sector lunches, Economic Updates, Panel debates Full programme of events available online

01253 336028 (8am - 6pm) csdeventsupport@fsb.org.uk www.fsb.org.uk

High Peak Business Club

shoutexpo.com

GM Business Connect are media partners

pro-manchester

Mix of virtual and face to face events all over the UK.

Halton & Warrington Business Fair 10 Nov 10.30am - 3.00pm Venue DCBL Stadium Halton, Lower House Lane, Widnes WA8 7DZ Contact haltonbizfair.co.uk

BITA Liverpool Lunch 18 Feb 11.30am - 5.00pm Venue Anfield Stadium, Anfield, Liverpool L4 0TF Cost £80+VAT (BITA members get discounted tickets).

Contact

---------------------------------------

Wirral & Chester Business Fair 22 Sept 10.30am - 3.00pm Venue New Brighton Floral Pavilion, Marine Promenade, New Brighton, Wirral CH45 2JS Contact wirralbizfair.co.uk

BITA London Construction Lunch 21 Apr 11.30am - 5.00pm Venue Royal Horseguards, Whitehall Place, London SW1A 2EJ Cost £170+VAT (BITA members get discounted tickets).

21 Oct 2022 9.00am - 3.00pm Venue Bolton Whites Hotel, De Havilland Way, Bolton BL6 6SF Cost FREE (pre-registration required).

natalie@dynamicnetworking.biz www.dynamicnetworking.biz

---------------------------------------

Greater Manchester Business Fair 7 Jul 10.30am - 3.00pm Venue AJ Bell Stadium, 1 Stadium Way Barton-upon-Irwell, Salford M30 7EY Contact manchesterbizfair.co.uk

BITA Manchester Monthly Social Networking 24 Feb 5.00pm - 7.00pm, every 3rd Thursday Venue Marriott Victoria and Albert, Water Street, Manchester M3 4JQ Cost FREE

---------------------------------------

14 Northwest Business Expo 2022 1 Day Business Expo

www.facebook.com/groups/ DynamicNetworkOnline/

Rebecca Moloney 07899 967 469 rebecca.moloney@uwclub.net

Liverpool Business Fair 22 Mar 10.30am - 3.00pm Venue Liverpool Football Club, Anfield Road, Liverpool L4 0TH Contact liverpoolbizfair.co.uk

BITA Leeds Monthly Social Networking 16 Feb 6.00pm - 8.00pm, every 3rd Weds Venue Marriott Cast Iron Bar & Grill, 4 Trevelyan Square, Boar Lane, Leeds LS1 6ET Cost FREE

shoutexpo.com

GM Business Connect are media partners page

Face to face every month - zoom Contact for details 9.15am - 11.00am Venue Bramhall Park Golf Club, 20 Manor Road, Bramhall, Stockport SK7 3LY

Online networking using Zoom:

Contact

---------------------------------------

Online weekly every Weds - zoom 9.15am - 11.15am Cost FREE

BITA London every Friday 11 Feb, 18 Feb, 25 Feb 8.00am - 9.00am

Cost

John Galloway 07971 161621

Expo 2022

Networking - fortnightly

page

29 BITA (British and Irish

page

14 Merseyside Business

Contact

01772 935930 info@shoutnetwork.co.uk www.shoutnetwork.co.uk

--------------------------------------The Business Network Manchester Virtual and Live networking - inc seminars. Online - 16 Feb, 16 Mar 11.50am - 1.30pm Venue Online Cost £15 Live event - 22 Feb 12noon - 2.00pm (Optional seminar 10.00am start) Venue The Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Place, Salford, Manchester M3 5LH Cost £48 Contact

Helen Bennett 0161 823 1384 helen@business-network.co.uk www.business-network.co.uk

--------------------------------------The Business Network South Manchester Virtual and Live networking - inc seminars. Live event - 3 Mar 11.30am - 2.00pm Venue Cottons Hotel, Manchester Road, Knutsford WA16 0SU Cost £46.80 Live event - 7 Apr 11.30am - 2.00pm Venue Mottram Hall, Wilmslow Road, Mottram SK10 4QT Cost £46.80 Contact

Simon Edmondson 07766 493428

Simon.Edmondson@business-network.co.uk www.business-network.co.uk

Face to face and zoom business networking

0161 505 1054 www.mpostcode.co.uk

Please note If you plan to attend any of the above events please ensure all details are correct in advance. Whilst every effort has been made to confirm accuracy some details may be subject to change.

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HOSPITALITY

21 : SAFETY

WELLBEING

17 : IT

DIGITAL MARKETING

AWARDS

9 : CONSTRUCTION