Business Cornwall Dec 22/Jan 23

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Nick Eyriey nick@businesscornwall.co.uk

PUBLISHER Toni Eyriey toni@businesscornwall.co.uk

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

MANAGER Morveth Ward morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Caroline Carter caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk

DESIGN Ade Taylor design@businesscornwall.co.uk

WELCOME

Kernowfornia

BY GUEST EDITOR MORVETH WARD

BUSINESS CORNWALL is published 10 times a year by: Tonick Business Publishing Pool Innovation Centre Trevenson Road, Redruth TR15 3PL Tel: 01209 718688

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I’ve stepped in for Nick this month and we are for sure not short of stuff happening in the political and business arena. Hopefully (in comparison to last month) there might be a little more predictability and clarity for the business community now, with the Chancellor’s recent promise to focus on financial stability and fairness…

There’s been lots of exciting and encouraging things happening on a local level. I went along for a tour of the Spaceport Cornwall site with a close-up visual of Virgin Orbit’s Cosmic Girl, which by the next issue should have flown its first bunch of satellites into space. What a case study for Cornwall – there’s no doubt that perceptions of Cornwall are changing - rather than being seen as a tourist destination, sometimes seen as two steps behind in most other respects, Cornwall has been stepping into what could be viewed as a new era of exciting times and a digital revolution. Attracting tech businesses from all over, who want that Californian/silicon valley vibes, but in Europe.

Furthermore, Cornwall Trade & Investment (CTI) has just arrived back from world-renowned startup/ tech event SLUSH in Helsinki, where some Cornwall-based businesses have been showcasing what they do, while CTI looks to promote Cornwall as a business destination. Looking to the future I find all of this a promising time for Cornwall and one where there’s a better range of decent jobs for the next generation that will also mitigate the brain drain.

This has also been a period of celebration and events, with the likes of Cornwall Tourism Awards, Cornwall Sustainability Awards and Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards, amongst others.

Business Cornwall Magazine is proud to be associated with

The big question

www.bestplacestoworkincornwall.com

JON HURRELL

Cornwall Manufacturers Group

My business highlight of the year is the creation of the Cornwall Manufacturers Group Academy, partnering with Cornwall College. The Academy has given 14-16 year olds in Cornwall the ability to gain a Level 2 Qualification in manufacturing something which has never existed before. The pupils are supported by industry experts from our membership and it aims to inspire the next generation of engineers into our innovative and thriving industry.

MARY LUNNEN

Dare to Blossom

Hard to choose just one as it has been a good year, just in a quiet, yet satisfying way. However I will say it is this: Signing a contract with a publisher in the USA for my next book, which should be out soon.

JAMES NEALE Idenna

My business highlight for 2022 would be the re-brand we delivered for Londonbased media agency Bountiful Cow - a project which was a joy end to end.

The brief was grounded in shifting their storytelling up a gear, and from day one, the chemistry and rapport we established with this client was instant. They were 100% committed and passionate about our work together, and what catapulted this project into my number one spot was how it represented a landmark moment for

our design team, who absolutely owned every aspect of the brief.

As an agency, we are often thought of first and foremost for our film production and copy, but this was the moment when our design team took their well-deserved place in the spotlight.

JAMES SCOTT

NCI Technologies

The biggest highlight for me over 2022 has been getting out of the office and meeting with our clients again. While we are a technology company, there is nothing like meeting people in person and forming a relationship. During the preceding year meetings have always been for a very specific reason and there has been very little time to build important bonds.

JANE PEARCE

Groundsure

2022 has been a turbulent year for many of us in many ways but one of the most striking events was this summer’s heatwave which brought home to all of us how our climate is changing. Political events may feel very short term, but we are in it for the long haul with the climate and understanding how we adapt and change with it. For this very reason, our highlight of the year was the launch of our unique CimateIndex analysis module in our environmental search reports in June. We provide this information as part of the searches that a conveyancer or commercial real estate lawyer undertakes for residential and commercial properties.

Homebuyers and businesses can now look forward up to 30 years and see if their property could be impacted by flooding, coastal erosion or subsidence. These are all very real and present issues across Cornwall. Together with our specialist mining geology team in Pool, we are now providing unique guidance on how our climate is affecting Cornish communities so that they can thrive and adapt into the future.

TAMSIN CHAPMAN-GUNNER Citizens Advice Cornwall

It is hard to believe that I have only been with Citizens Advice Cornwall for a year as we have achieved so much in that time, but my highlight has to be our Blue and White Ball in September. So many great businesses came out to support the event and help us not only raise awareness of Citizens Advice Cornwall as a local charity but to also to help raise funds to help us continue our work. Starting an event from scratch is never easy but it was a great success and I can’t wait for next year.

CLAIRE MARTIN

Perfect Sums

Our business highlight of 2022 has to be seeing our clients’ businesses coming back from covid and returning to normal practice.

It has been a tough few years but seeing them surviving the storm and coming out stronger has been the ultimate highlight for us.

NAKED SOLAR

Naked Solar has been named National Solar PV Installer and Contractor of the Year at the Energy Efficiency Awards.

MD Tony Sampson, together with operations manager Shelley Sampson, received the award at a ceremony recently, hosted by Dan Walker and comedian Hugh Dennis.

Tony Sampson said: “Being considered as the UK’s highest quality installers by the EEA is always a delight. I’m so proud of the whole team at Naked Solar for their hard work and most of all, their genuine desire to ensure our customers have the best experience possible.”

Since launching as a new company under a new brand earlier this year, Lesjöfors Heavy Springs UK has invested £1.1 million in new machinery, in direct response to customer demand and growth in newly identified markets.

Michael Gibbs, MD of the UK factories, said: “This is a big investment and this year has seen a number of big changes, showing confidence in our market position.

“Our strategy for growth has enabled us to expand our capacity in the UK, to separate our automotive and industrial sector work across two industry specific dedicated sites and to expand our industrial business even further.”

BREWERY BONUS

St Austell Brewery has taken a minority share in Harbour Brewing Co. The formal arrangement will make Harbour’s beer available to a much wider audience for the first time.

Founder Eddie Lofthouse said: “We’ve always had a fantastic relationship with St Austell

Brewery. When we first started in 2012, they did our bottling before we had the equipment to do it ourselves, and the former brewing director Roger Ryman was a mentor and good friend. Since then, we’ve built strong relationships across the business, from the brewery team to the board.”

Harbour Brewing’s production will remain at its site in Kirland, close to Bodmin. The brewery’s whole range will be available to St Austell venues.

such an amazing Awards ceremony, and congratulations to all finalists.

In addition, the company was also highly commended in the Best Place to Work, Subcontractor category.

LEADER OF THE YEAR

Commenting on the awards, which were presented during a ceremony held in London earlier this week, Kellow said: “Thank you to Construction News for putting on

“The industry was well represented and it was a fantastic opportunity to meet other individuals pushing the boundaries and carving their own path.

“It was a huge surprise to win the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Leader award and also to be recognised as Highly Commended as ‘Best Place to Work’. I couldn’t do it without the team here though, and I am massively proud of all they do.”

ADVERTORIAL

WHEN SHOULD YOU GET A REGISTERED DESIGN?

Out of all the IP rights, designs are perhaps the most obscure. But in theory they are quite simple – designs are about the appearance of products; a registered design protects “what the product looks like”.

So, a registered design can be obtained for almost any product with a new appearance. If it has been designed in the sense that somebody has put some thought into what it looks like, then it can probably be protected.

By Frederick Noble, British and European Patent Attorney at Albright IP.

SPONSORED BY focus-technology.co.uk

RG Kellow MD Rob Kellow was named Health, Safety and Wellbeing Leader of the year at the Construction News Workforce Awards.

BY sapc.co.uk

MINI SILICON VALLEY

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has the fastest growing tech sector in the south west, forecasted to grow 17.9% by 2026. With demand for AI Skills in the UK Labour Market having more than tripled over the last decade, the region is offering some of the most sought after AI and machine learning jobs in the UK, according to a recent report commissioned by CIoS Digital Skills Partnership.

Tanuvi Ethunandan, co-founder of Cornish startup Data Duopoly: “You no longer need to go to the big cities to find innovative tech companies. Cornwall is leading the way in technology development and moving away from just being a tourism economy. And with improving transport links and the growth of hybrid working, the tech sector will only become even stronger.

“I actually came from London and honestly had no idea what to expect when I moved to Cornwall. My view was very stereotypical, it was a great holiday place for me. I was going to the beach doing lots of paddle boarding and even trying my hand at surfing but had no idea there was this fantastic burgeoning, dare I say it, mini Silicon Valley developing.”

An Argentine climate tech company has expanded to the UK and set up a base at Newquay Aerohub.

Uali specialises in using AI technology and robotics in tandem with UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) to survey wind turbines and analyse gas and oil emissions.

Uali is looking to utilise Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly’s testing capabilities, alongside business support and R&D funding opportunities.

CEO and founder, Ian Bogado, said:

ARGENTINE COMPANY COMES TO CORNWALL

“Bureaucracy and pace made our Spanish operations more difficult than expected. With the testing facilities, R&D opportunities, funding and support available in Cornwall, we believe our new HQ is the key to developing our company at an international level.”

Feeding Sports Bra.

This time the accolade came from Women’s Running magazine, which tested thousands of products to source the best clothes and accessories for runners – including pregnant women.

The bra was described as having “good support for a maternity bra with nice padding, adjustable straps, easy access clips and great coverage for feeding discreetly”.

GOLD AWARD

Cornish maternity fitnesswear company, FittaMamma, has received another Gold Award for its High Impact Maternity and

Alexandra McCabe, co-founder of FittaMamma, said: “Winning this award is a great achievement. In a recent survey 66% of our customers said they wore the FittaMamma range for running, so we’re really proud that Women’s Running Magazine voted it worthy of a Gold Award - especially following so soon after winning Gold in the 2022 Made for Mums Awards.”

That includes functional products like coat hangers, face cleaning brushes and blind headrails (all of which are the subject of real registered designs which have been successfully enforced). It includes products which are, or could be, also protected by patents. Patents protect the technical invention – the way it works. Design protection is for something different – what it looks like.

A design “update” for a new product version, even making relatively minor changes, should also prompt at least a conversation about whether a new registration should be filed.

A design registration should be filed ideally

before a product is disclosed to the public. In the UK and Europe, there is a grace period which makes this a more flexible rule. However, international protection will be compromised and other risks arise if a design is disclosed before filing. Filing first is always best.

Actually filing a design registration is fairly straightforward – the registration just comprises a series of images showing the design. However, what those images actually show is absolutely critical.

Thought needs to be put into what design features need to be protected, and whether the design needs to include colours, contrasts, and other surface features,

or whether it is only for the shape of the product. Multiple designs for a single product can often provide the best and most flexible protection.

Seek advice early, and we will help you get the best protection.

Albright IP, Pool Innovation Centre, Redruth, Cornwall TR15 3PL fnoble@albright-ip.co.uk

+44 (0)1209 316161

SPONSORED

INNOVATION IN COMPOSITE MANUFACTURE

Composite Integration won the ‘Innovation in Composite Manufacture’ category in this year’s Composites UK Industry Awards.

Since being founded 20 years ago, the Saltash-based company has grown to serve a wide range of sectors including marine,

A 75-year legacy of supporting communities through challenging times was celebrated recently as a Cornish charity marked a milestone anniversary.

Staff, partners and beneficiaries of Cornwall Rural Community Charity (CRCC) gathered at Heartlands to share experiences of supporting grass-roots organisations and the people behind them.

Katherine Nissen, chief executive, said: “It’s lovely to be able to get together and celebrate this wonderful charity, especially the people who have made things happen and the people we have helped. It’s a chance to make connections and refresh relationships as we look forward to supporting communities for many years to come.”

ALL SET FOR 30 UNDER 30

Applications will shortly be open for Cornwall’s 30 under 30 class of 2023.

Celebrating the Duchy’s brightest young business talent for the eighth successive year, applications open on January 9 and close on March 6.

The awards, which are being held for the eighth successive year, are organised by the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Business Cornwall

wind energy, aerospace and automotive, with customers in more than 20 countries.

MD, Richard Bland, said: “Hill Helicopters gave us an incredibly difficult challenge, and thanks to the ambition, skill, passion and hard work of the project team, supported by Innovate UK funding, the work was extremely successful and pushed the boundaries of what was considered possible. It was an honour to be recognised by Composites UK for our commitment to being at the forefront of innovation in composites manufacturing.”

COMMUNITY LEGACY

SPONSORED BY focus-technology.co.uk

magazine, Don’t Cry Wolf, Pirate FM, Whyfield and Truro and Penwith College and supported by Surge.

Chamber CEO, Kim Conchie, commented: “Judging and awarding the 30 under 30 certificates is one of my high points each year. The event where we gather the 30 winners, and their families promises to be more exciting than ever this June.

“And what’s even more exciting is that now, Cornwall Chamber of Commerce keeps inspiring our young stars throughout the year with our NEXGEN events. Look out for them over the coming months. They’ll be fun and informative.”

cornwallchamber.co.uk

Two successful Cornish businesses have come together to create a new brand offering a full range of fitted interior and furniture products and services.

Contemporary furniture company Cord Industries, which ships its steel and timber stools, tables and dining sets across the world, has joined forces with its neighbour, custom-fitted interiors maker Coast Creative Joinery, to form Coast Creative.

Access Cornwall, a Cornish community interest company (CIC) has won more than £80k in funding to help Cornwall’s tourist attractions and hospitality businesses become more accessible.

Local businesses have been supporting a new campaign aimed at tackling litter and waste in Cornwall.

Companies who have signed up as ‘Change-Makers’ as part of the Clean Cornwall initiative recently attended a networking event at the Headland Hotel in Newquay, where they heard from Peter Lefort of University of Exeter’s Green Futures Network, which aims to increase access for organisations to the latest environmental research and resources.

Cornwall’s largest care home operator, Cornwall Care, is under new ownership having been acquired by Sanctuary.

Penryn-based tidal energy developer, HydroWing, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with state-owned company, Indonesia Power, to support and develop tidal energy projects in Indonesia.

The number of ailing businesses in Cornwall reached 3,317 in the third quarter of 2022 (July – September), according to the latest figures from Begbies Traynor’s ‘Red Flag Alert’, which monitors the financial health of British companies.

This represents a quarterly increase of 2% in the number of Cornwall businesses that are struggling, but a drop of 2% on the same period in 2021.

Newquay Business Improvement District (BID) has announced the return of its popular LOVE Newquay Loyalty Card scheme alongside an opening up of the programme to visitors as well as locals.

WAS IT A FAIR COP, OR JUST BLAH, BLAH, BLAH?

Ewan McClymont of Bishop Fleming discusses the ongoing challenge of climate change.

So, another COP summit has been and gone. Whether it has achieved anything for climate change remains to be seen but at least it keeps it on the agenda.

COP stands for ‘conference of the parties’ under the UN framework convention on climate change (UNFCCC). These annual meetings have been taking place for nearly three decades to “avoid dangerous climate change” and find ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions globally.

Whilst it is good to maintain a healthy dialogue on what must be one of the most humanitarian issues of our time, it is all too easy to think of climate change as someone else’s problem, a problem so big that our individual efforts won’t make any difference.

But each of us, both as individuals and as businesses, can make a collective difference.

At Bishop Fleming, as part of our focus on Responsible Business, we are close to calculating our overall carbon footprint for the first time. The exercise includes independent verification and a wholesale review of operating practices to commit to a sustainable greenhouse gas reduction plan.

An important part of this process is to consult with staff, who represent a main stakeholder group. Indeed, a recent firm-wide staff commuting survey has unearthed a wealth of ideas and suggestions on how we can be a more sustainable business.

To recognise COP27, we also challenged our staff to ‘do something different’ and to share what they’d done with colleagues. There’s been a host of activity ranging from using the stairs instead of the lift, walking / cycling to work, printing less, turning off standby mode monitors, litter picking, recycling / swapping

clothes, book recommendations, and saying no to plastic wrapped food.

All little things, but sufficient to get people making new habits and doing something different. As we approach a new year, what will you do to make a difference?

www.bishopfleming.co.uk

SMALL BUSINESSES CALLING FOR STABILITY

SMEs can help drive the economic recovery, says FSB regional development manager Neil Eames, but they need Government support.

Small businesses continue to play a vital role both locally and within Britain’s national economy, and FSB is calling on Government to introduce measures to stabilise the economy and to deliver on the promised support for small firms on energy bills and cutting National Insurance.

We are very aware that many of our small businesses and self-employed across the south west are being challenged by soaring costs, falling revenues, and the reduction in availability of affordable finance. It is now vitally important that pro-business measures are introduced to secure prosperity in the medium and long term.

The importance of cashflow support through the energy crisis is vital to the small business economy. At a time of pressure on public finances, there is a call to the new PM, to improve cashflow for vast numbers of small firms without a cost to taxpayers and take action on tackling poor payment practices in supply chains. Late payment of invoices is a major issue with more than half (54%) of small firms being a victim of late payments over the last three months.

Of course, we mustn’t forget that small business entrepreneurs are resilient and innovative, but the current situation is a real challenge. For small firms to drive economic recovery and future prosperity, they need a pro-small business environment, supported by Government. FSB is committed to continuing to lobby Government on behalf of small businesses.

www.fsb.org.uk

Neil Eames Regional development manager – south central and south west FSB

NickHalliday

Hotelier Nick Halliday has vast experience in the hospitality industry. A former COO of Hotel du Vin & Bistro and MD of Andrew Brownsword Hotels, since 2019 he has been CEO of Tresco Estate on the Isles of Scilly.

How did the opportunity at Tresco come about? And were you familiar with the Isles of Scilly before taking on the role of CEO?

I knew little about the Isles of Scilly and had never visited - it was one of those chance conversations that turned into a credible opportunity at just the right time for both my career and family. I’d had roles running multi-site hotel operations, had developed brands for family businesses and had previously run a luxury hideaway resort in the British Virgin Islands so I was familiar with island living and used to the dynamic of operating a family backed business. I’ve always enjoyed hands-on roles with diversity and so this seemed an ideal opportunity to draw on past experience and unlock potential at this unique, island-based brand.

What an incredible opportunity. What is it like living-out island life? Have you found anything to be particularly unexpected or challenging, from a personal point of view? How different is it from Hotel Du Vin?

Ultimately, it was a family decision. We came across for a weekend visit in the winter of 2018 and made the plan to move during our nine-hour journey back home to Northumberland

– we relocated in March 2019 and to be honest we haven’t really looked back since. If you

appreciate environment and love an outdoor life, it’s easy to embrace. You quickly become more resourceful and adapt to a slower pace. Challenges are more likely to be work related or around the fact that travel to the mainland isn’t a certainty but subject to weather conditions - but this is just part of island life and one of the adjustments you make to living here.

It’s obviously different to the more corporate roles I’ve had – there’s often a softer touch needed and business aside, there’s an important focus on protecting the infrastructure and balance required to maintain a happy equilibrium within the island community.

Talking business, at the time you came on board, what did the growth and evolution of the business look like up to that point?

The initial focus of the role was to oversee and review everything that had a commercial impact on the estate. As it happens, most elements on the island either link directly or indirectly to the business - from the heliport to boat services, to our 110 cottage rentals and range of hotel accommodation, restaurants and bars to the farm, engineering, freight and waste management, as well as retail, spa and leisure.

Accommodation, on some weeks of the year, are sold on an advanced rental or island share basis on varying terms - not only does this help to provide a degree of base business, it equally helps to sustain and support the island’s services. As the largest employer on the Isles of Scilly, the role naturally extends to some involvement in the local economy and I sit on the board of the Islands Partnership, a destination marketing organisation. Success for Tresco is also dependant on strong visitor numbers across all the islands, most things

are interlinked and very reliant on a healthy collaboration.

You came at a pretty crazy time, just pre-pandemic. How was it for the Isles of Scilly and specifically your island businesses?

So much has happened across the world since the onset of the pandemic in early 2020 - the initial shock took a while to absorb. We had run a successful recruitment campaign over the winter and were ready and primed for the season launch with all of our team inducted and trained.

With lock-down enforced on the islands, the full impact and potential consequence to livelihoods became clear. As a business, we were quick to draw up contingencies and to establish a nucleus of key workers required to keep the island infrastructure ticking over. The opportunity to open and trade the limited summer of 2020 and then the longer season in 2021 provided a real lifeline - demand was off the scale and despite operating with restrictions we were able to showcase our island experience to new audiences and work on securing future loyalty.

They were challenging times and aside from focusing on business survival we had a duty of care to our island community. With a cross-section of younger families to retired folk, familiar faces within the community are part of the appeal for many visitors who return to experience the magic of the islands every year. Just as in many villages on the mainland, it has a primary school, a church, a post office and grocery store, as well as a working farm and services infrastructure. An important part of the role is sustaining a healthy balance between community and business. There’s a natural can-do attitude that exists here and is probably born out of a need to manage support services ourselves. Whether it’s the fire service, coastguard, first responder or recycling waste, the community is the heartbeat of the island and of the 120 people

The islands economy is reliant on tourism and impacted by external influence

who are permanent residents, approximately 85 of them work for the estate.

Post pandemic, we’ve been proactive around investment – whether that’s paying competitive rates to attract skills and personality or tactically upgrading product. The current season is the first real barometer when looking back to pre-pandemic trade levels – our advanced bookings were already pacing 17% ahead but organic pick-up has driven stronger occupancy and naturally pushed the length of season. Demand for 2023 remains strong but these are unsettled times and the islands economy is reliant on tourism and impacted by external influence.

On the mainland in Cornwall last year, there was a booking boom, prices shot-up and consequently much more holiday accommodation was created by people wanting a slice of the pie. But things slowed down this year as people were able to go abroad. Has this been the case on the Isles of Scilly or has the uniqueness/ limited supply of accommodation meant this hasn’t been so?

There was an integrity to our accommodation pricing, we were thinking beyond the short term and although we’d applied inflationary rate growth, the scope of demand meant that we were attracting a lot of new business spread across a longer trading year. One of our key commercial objectives was to grow occupancy around Christmas and the shoulder seasons, effectively extending the trading year to eleven months. The islands offer a unique experience but aren’t necessarily for everyone and with the added cost of travel it isn’t a particularly cheap holiday option. Staycation demand did drive significant first-time visitor volume and based on advanced bookings data for 2023 it’s looking like a reasonable conversion ratio.

Do you have any particular plans or strategies moving forward?

One of the key ingredients of success is employing great people and we are continuing a programme of developing and upgrading our staff accommodation. Our team are also a key part of our brand identity – guidelines we have to support these criteria ensure a natural safety net but in practice they are very subtly displayed and provide a vital role in service delivery and guest experience. We continue to plan for and promote, a strong brand culture throughout our team.

We have also recently completed a sensitive upgrade of our pub, the New Inn –refurbishing the 16 bedrooms and redefining the dining room. Planning for and sustaining a rolling refurbishment programme is critical in maintaining product. Given the lead time for orders, the logistics of scheduling freight and labour, all within limited winter months – it obviously needs planning well in advance and a lot of our energy at this time of year is the result of a lot of preparation and ready to position that plan for action.

Another key area of focus is our drive to ensure we promote and use as much local produce as possible on our shelves and menus. We are working closely with independent suppliers across the islands to showcase some of the finest produce from land and sea and have some exciting projects underway to ensure we promote our home grown and local initiatives.

We are constantly working to protect the environment and be more sustainable –we live close to nature here and are sensitive about the human impact to the island. We already have momentum with initiatives such as our food waste management project. 24% of all our collected waste is food waste and we reduce this waste volume by 80% -feeding everything

through our biodigester which cooks the waste over 24 hours, breaking it down into safe, compostable material that can be used as fertiliser.

Similarly, all our glass waste is crushed and recycled on the island and ends up being used in improving our roads and building projects –we have just invested heavily in a state-of-theart glass crusher for our waste shed.

We have embarked on an ambitious programme to move to electric vehicles wherever possible. It’s largely a vehicle-free island with bicycles as the main mode of transport, but we do have a number of works vehicles, buggies and shuttles for transporting visitors from quay to cottage - our aim is to continue replacing all of these with electric options and ultimately be able to self-generate the electricity to run them.

For a while, Isles of Scilly Travel had pretty much a monopoly on transport –now you have a regular public helicopter service, how is this going?

All of the travel links to the islands provide a vital service and one of my key aims was always to extend the trading season supporting these operations when volumes naturally reduce. This is as much about freight services as it is about passenger transfers.

Penzance Helicopters has provided island visitors another option into St Mary’s and Tresco and as a key client to the service it offers our guests the year-round convenience of sitting in their cottage some 30 minutes after leaving Penzance. Like a lot of business, it suffered as a result of the pandemic but has bounced back well and is preparing for a busy 2023 with a new operator.

We live close to nature here and are sensitive about the human impact to the island

Striving to

succeed

Leading

innovation

programme Acceleration Through Innovation 2

(ATI2) continues to drive growth in Cornwall by supporting innovative businesses across the county.

Over the last two years, the programme has engaged circa 500 enterprises, provided support to 324 and awarded 49 grants to Cornish SMEs. Despite the pandemic, the programme is already tracking ahead of its profiled targets and is set to continue delivering high level support until it concludes in June 2023.

Jo Hancock, programme manager, states “Although Innovation grants are just one aspect of the programme, they really help a business to de-risk investment. Innovation can provide a huge boost to a business and we’re pleased to have supported so many SMEs helping them to reach the next level of capacity and growth.”

Debbie Pearce, director at Assentech, says: “The grant allows us to invest more in our technological advances. It has cost

us an awful lot of money to get to this level, meanwhile balancing all the other areas of the business, so it’s given us a little bit of cash flow there to reinvest and push ourselves along a little bit quicker.”

As the only innovation accredited business advisor in the county, ATI2 has enabled hundreds of businesses develop new products, services and processes through a bespoke offer of support which includes consultancy, research, academic collaborations, workshops, prototyping, funding and IP advice.

Iain Brunt, Director of Aegis Veterinary Technology, states: “Without the support of ATI2 we would be in a much earlier stage of the business, it has accelerated us 1-2 years ahead of what we could achieve on our own.”

Over the last year, the team have seen an increase in the need for specialised support in new service/product development. In

order to fulfil this need, ATI2 has developed an intensive programme which seeks to increase the success rate of ideas through to commercialisation and maximise opportunities for businesses to secure new funding bids.

Embedding innovation into a company strategy should ensure that new ideas or initiatives are aligned to the future direction of the business. It should also ensure that one eye is kept on the horizon and that the business is aware of any trends or market disrupters that could be detrimental to it. If done well, innovation should enable a business to survive and thrive, and this is just one area where ATI2 can really help.

Ian Dibb, Co-Founder of Keylu, says: “When you’re trying to run a start-up and you’re already being pulled in a million different directions, actually having someone to guide you through a process is fantastic and that was one of the real benefits of working with ATI2. My expectations of the support and services available through the programme were exceeded. Massively!”

Based at the Pool Innovation Centre, ATI2 supports innovative businesses in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Led by the University of Plymouth and funded by ERDF, HM Government and Cornwall Council, innovation support is available until March 2023.

Innovation should enable a business to survive and thrive

Photo: Keylu

RECRUITMENT

HIRING BEST PRACTICE

Recruitment – go it alone or partner with a recruitment agency? A wise investment or an avoidable expense? Alex Callister, director of Truro-based recruitment specialists Trial Balance Consulting and Well Placed HR, shares his advice for employers considering partnering with an employment agency.

Despite previously suffering a somewhat dubious reputation, most modern day recruiters are hardworking, switched on and highly principled. But as with any industry, some providers are more effective than others.

Here are my top considerations for employers considering partnering with a recruitment business:

WHAT’S THE BENEFIT OF ENGAGING A RECRUITMENT AGENCY?

Ultimately there are two key advantages –

1. A good recruiter will be able to uncover candidates that employers would struggle to source themselves. How? By dedicating 100% of their time to finding them. That doesn’t mean posting an advertisement on the internet and hoping for the best. It means consulting with an in-house database of candidates and contacts that has developed over many years and should be meticulously maintained. An effective recruiter will already be reeling off the names of potential candidates in their mind as their client is briefing them. They will proactively target candidates with a relevant skill set or background.

2. It saves an employer a lot of time. A recruiter will design and post an effective online candidate attraction campaign on behalf of their client, often sharing far and wide – a considerable and unguaranteed expense for an employer looking to try for themselves. They will effectively deal with all enquiries and applications, ensuring that unsuitable candidates are dealt with promptly and compassionately. They build a long list of prospective candidates before whittling it down to a digestible shortlist. A professional recruiter should be focussed on minimising the number of CVs that they submit to an employer, but ensuring that each submission perfectly complements the brief. The recruiter will handle all of the administration surrounding setting up interviews, exchanges of feedback and if an offer is to be made, acting as chief negotiator in an effort to ensure mutual acceptance.

INDUSTRY SPECIALIST OR GENERALIST?

There are two types of recruitment businesses – those that specialise in just one specific vocation and/or industry sector and those that will happily assist an employer with almost any recruitment project.

A specialist will have a far more in depth knowledge of their chosen industry sector. They should be switched on where market trends and salaries are concerned, and they should be able to anticipate the challenges a client assignment presents before they’ve even got started. They’ll know the right questions to ask and they’ll know exactly the type of candidate that they’re targeting. The downside to specialists being that their relationship with most employers will be sporadic because they will only add value in a single area of an employer’s business. Generalist recruiters have the advantage of offering a broader recruitment partnership to an employer, often accepting assignment across of all functions of the business. The downside being that they will likely lack the technical expertise in specialist vocations.

CONSIDERING THE COSTS

An employer’s main objection to partnering with a recruitment specialist is cost and for some recruitment projects, the benefit of utilising an agency may not offset the expenditure. Most recruiters will only charge

a fee upon successful completion of a project meaning that the time spent on an assignment and the significant advertising costs are unlikely to be recovered if they are unable to fill a vacancy.

The cost is generally calculated as a percentage of a successful candidates commencing salary; the higher the salary, the higher the percentage charged as senior level assignments generally consume more time. Whilst recruiters recognise that the cost of their service will always be a key consideration for their clients, they also understand the potential benefit of introducing an exceptional candidate to a business. Employees are usually an employer’s greatest asset and for many key appointments, the associated recruitment costs quickly become insignificant when a great candidate adds real value to their business. My top tip for negotiating fees –exclusive assignment! Assigning a single recruiter for an agreed period of time increases their chances of success and an effective overall campaign. If an employer wants to negotiate recruitment fees, an offer of exclusivity is the trump card!

A specialist recruiter such as Trial Balance Consulting (accountancy & finance), or Well Placed HR (people management), can help. Get in touch to learn more about our services, our candidates and our quest to ensure that our clients employ the candidates that they really want.

www.trial-balance.co.uk 01872 464555

www.wellplacedhr.co.uk 01872 309400

Recent trends show that print marketing remains a dependable and highly effective way to boost your business for years to come.

Understandably, during these financially challenging times businesses are keen to make sure that the investment in their print campaign creates an impact and provides a successful return on that investment. So, what should you consider when creating an engaging and effective print campaign?

TELL YOUR STORY: Create a narrative around your brand or tell the story of your latest product. Excellent storytelling in print marketing pulls together the most compelling images with creative copywriting to create an emotional connection with your customers.

DARING DESIGN: It’s worth investing in high quality design and creative copywriting to move your brand from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Successful print marketing

UP YOUR PRINT MARKETING GAME

Simple. Personal. Trustworthy. These are the enduring hallmarks of printed advertising and marketing. Beth Mayman, operations manager at SAPC explains...

is elegantly simple, targeted and personal, visually compelling, texture-rich, and creatively written.

GET PERSONAL: Create an emotional connection directly with each and every customer using personalised or segmented direct mail. Each printed item can be easily customised to provide a personal message resulting in higher ROI, as well as a better engaged audience.

TEXTURED & TACTILE: Use textured elements in your print media that play to the senses and inspire awareness and recall. Die-cutting and embossments are quite literally raised off the page, while foiling or spot varnish can add depth while providing a more subtle way of highlighting your design.

PERFECT PACKAGING: With paper and board continuing to replace plastic packaging, we have seen an explosion in exciting packaging designs. In particular,

short run digitally printed wraps, tuck boxes and gift boxes are in high demand.

DIGITAL CONNECTION: Bridge the gap between offline and online with personalised URLs, QR codes and Augmented Reality. From flyers to brochures to magazine adverts, print provides the perfect channel to drive consumers to your online platforms with trackable results.

CHOOSE ECO-FRIENDLY: Print and paper production are one of the most sustainable industries in the world. Choose Carbon Balanced print and paper that has recycled content and is from sustainably managed forests with FSC® Certification.

Many companies struggle to recruit a payroll professional in Cornwall and for others it has become impracticable to have an in-house payroll professional, either because of rising salary costs or the risk of them being absent with no cover.

Therefore, more and more businesses are choosing to outsource their payroll to an expert payroll company. This also ensures keeping up to date with ever changing legislation.

CONNECT EMPLOYER DASHBOARD

This has been a game changer for us and our clients! It is the closest thing to having a dedicated payroll professional in your office, but for a fraction of the cost. The dashboard is easy to use and the process is very straightforward. Once you send us your payroll data, we will process the payroll, then upload the payslips and payroll reports to the dashboard for you to check and approve. All the payroll information is instantly at

your fingertips and the payroll reports can also be customised to suit your specific requirements. It couldn’t be easier.

Employees can also get their own app to view their payslips on their phone.

The feedback from our clients has been fantastic!

ABOUT US

We are an experienced team of payroll technicians based in Truro. We provide a friendly, professional and cost-effective service to all types and size of business In Cornwall.

We have, once again, achieved accreditation with the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals after passing their Payroll Assurance Scheme. This is the gold standard in the payroll profession and Cornwall Payroll are the only accountant or Payroll Company in Cornwall to hold this accolade.

www.sapc.co.uk

The ideal time to switch is the start of the new tax year.

For more information on our services contact info@cornwallpayroll.co.uk or call 01872 306412

See what our clients have to say about our service and support on Google reviews and Yell.com

MD Tim Wilkins explains how Cornwall Payroll can help your business in 2023.

PAYROLL

We’re in a time where we need more than nice thoughts, but real action. One way you can do this is to opt-for a car which is less damaging to our planet. But, in this now competitive genre of EVs, what do you go for? Mazda’s first plug in hybrid (PHEV), the CX-60, is one option that thanks to Vospers I got to try out.

The CX-60 is Mazda’s answer to the large, premium / luxury SUV market. I’ve always been a big fan of Mazda – the manufacturer has made some incredibly good cars over the years, including the little MX-5, which must be one of the best cars of all time, as well as the infamous RX-7 sportscar – so it gives me reason to be hopeful. With Mazda, you tend to get Japanese reliability and build quality, which has typically made for a dependable and well-built range of cars at the forefront of technology and innovation. Thankfully the CX-60 would appear to be no

exception and is one of Mazda’s most luxury and advanced cars to date.

Starting with the styling, it’s a little more understated than some, but striking nonetheless, softer lines make it friendlier looking than some of the angry/ aggressive looking (especially the European) rival SUVs. Then there’s the interior, which again is also understated, in a good sense – it’s uncluttered and minimalist, focussing on a serene and relaxing environment, yet with all the tech. Everything feels very well built and user friendly – not trying too hard either, with no unnecessary gimmicks or annoying things – it’s just very likeable, I guess.

Power is delivered by way of a 2.5l petrol

engine and electric motor, coupled to an 8 speed automatic gearbox transferring drive to all four wheels. It’s got some grunt, too, in fact Mazda’s most powerful production car, with 323bhp combined and an impressive 0-62 of 5.8 seconds. The beauty of a hybrid is that it covers all travel eventualities, but to get the most out of it, you want to be making good use of the electric motor on its own merit, otherwise you’re obviously always relying on petrol to a large degree. So, on this note, you can use electric only in the CX-60, which will carry you up to a claimed 39 miles. Therefore, if this is enough for your daily commute, then its ideal. Oh, and business users will also benefit from a lower rate benefit-in-kind.

As you’d expect with a luxury SUV, it has various driving modes, including all-electric and at the other end of the spectrum, sport mode. In Sport mode (which obviously I had to try out) it deploys its 323bhp effortlessly and smoothly. In fact you’d never know it’s got all of that power until you put your foot down. It’s a dark horse in this sense, as its soft-lined design and smooth and refined drive, gives away little indication of its respectable power, whereas some of the competitors go for aggressive styling and a hard (‘sporty’) ride that can feel a little irritable on some of the rougher roads. The Mazda’s handling is composed and makes little drama of Cornwall’s backroads. Going to use the word relaxing again, because this is how I feel about the drive of this. If you’re ever being tailgated, I doubt it’ll be one of these in your rear-view mirror, as it doesn’t give rise to impatient driving – it’s too much of a serene place.

In summary, the CX-60 offers a high level of luxury, quality and practicality in an unpretentious way and is a real contender in this competitive genre.

Prices start from around £45k.

FINANCE

ADVANTAGES OF COMPUTERISED ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE IN AN EVER-CHANGING WORLD

AUTOMATED DEBT COLLECTION

Cash collection is key for any business to ensure cash-flow is adequately managed. Many of the leading software packages have the ability to email statements on a scheduled basis direct to customers, with little interaction from the user.

Debt collection can be a simple process where reminders are sent by the software to customers when invoices are due/overdue for payment.

This will minimise the work involved in invoicing and debt collection to enable you to concentrate more on running your business.

DATA EXTRACTION SOFTWARE

Data extraction software is a valuable tool in

CHARITY

minimising the processing of your supplier invoices, making manual data entry a thing of the past.

The data extraction software can easily extract the important information from the supplier invoice (e.g date, name, VAT and invoice total), and can predict where you would like to post supplier invoices based on your previous entries.

Automating the data entry will minimise any risk of human error when processing the invoice.

CASH PROJECTION

The implementation of the above processes will result in your data always being up to date, which will then enable you to use other useful software packages, such as cash projection software giving you:

MAKE A RESOLUTION TO IMPROVE EMPLOYEE MENTAL HEALTH

Poor mental health costs UK employers around £42 billion each year, so as the year comes to a close, perhaps now is the time to ask yourself, what is your workplace doing to help employees with their wellbeing? Coming into the darker winter months, and beginning a new year, can all take its toll on mental health, never mind the private lives, and struggles we all experience. That’s why having a support system set up to help, can make a huge difference to employee wellbeing, and benefit your business as a result.

Sea Sanctuary, a mental health charity in Falmouth, offer the following services, to help support your teams, no matter what they’re dealing with.

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMMES (EAPS)

Becoming a popular choice amongst many

businesses, Employee Assistance Programmes give your teams a supportive framework they can rest on during fatigue, distress, or trauma. Through education, training, and specialist mental health support, an EAP works to build an emotionally resilient workforce, with effective coping strategies for the big and little stressors in life they might have to deal with.

WELLBEING CHAMPION TRAINING

Why not nominate a few team members to become Wellbeing Champions, who are trained to help sustain and promote positive mental health in your business? Your Wellbeing Champion receives training so they can deliver a high standard of care and support in the workplace and offer internal training back to the rest of your team.

• A clearer picture of your business performance,

• Information about your future financial needs, how to navigate some of the current financial challenges and what needs to happen to achieve your future plans; and

• an invaluable tool when trying to secure future financial funding or decide on incurring expenditure.

Truro 01872 276116 Penzance 01736 339322 post@rrlcornwall.co.uk www.rrlcornwall.co.uk

WELLBEING DAYS

What’s better than getting to spend the day having fun with your team, while improving your mental health in the process?

A Sea Sanctuary Raise Your Sail day is a great way to take your team out of the office and onto the water, for an award-winning sailing experience like no other.

Find out more at seasanctuary.org.uk or email hello@seasanctuary.org.uk

In our fast-paced modern world, where time is money, every minute saved by implementing computerised processes is invaluable in helping your business work more efficiently. Written by Carole Thomas and Mikaela Richards, RRL LLP.

SIGNAGE HAVE A VISUAL IMPACT IN 2023

2023

Spending money on business promotion now becomes something we all need to carefully evaluate. We are more than ever ‘conscious consumers.’ Not just in relation to financial outlay but also taking into account other factors such as sustainability and how the brands we do business with engage with us. Signage and the right materials can play a huge part in the visual impact of that engagement.

As consumers we’re often looking for something that we feel is unique. So from a business point of view, it’s about creating an immersive brand experience from the moment you step through the door and that encompasses not just signage but branding, interior design and the customer experience as a whole.

It’s no longer good enough to just have a sign on the front of your building, it’s about

CONFERENCES CREATE AN EXCEPTIONAL EVENT

When we are planning an event with our clients, everything is considered in meticulous detail to ensure the event is a success. Emails flying back and forth. Completed booking forms checked and re-checked. Last minute phone calls confirming final numbers, tweaking technology needs and registering essential dietary requirements. Our Top Tips...

BE PREPARED: Event organisers are always welcome to pop in for a pre-event site visit, however we realise that this isn’t always practical. So, we do offer plenty of time in the mornings so that you can arrive early to familiarise yourself with the venue and facilities, ensuring that you are happy with the room layout, run through the venue’s safety procedures, request any last-minute printing from our team and most importantly check the AV and presentation set up.

BE INFORMATIVE: Share detailed pre-event information with delegates in advance. The

agenda and directions are usually distributed as standard, but also consider including extra welfare information related to the parking arrangements, EV charging facilities, remote access options, venue accessibility etc.

BE INTERACTIVE: Provide plenty of time in your schedule for networking. In-person collaboration is the highlight of many events and it’s great to hear the buzz of excitement in the conference centre. It cannot be underestimated how much good comes out of these conversations – both personally and professionally.

BE ENGAGING: Consider how to keep your audience engaged and alert. How can you mix up the agenda? Can you provide multiple speakers or include group discussions or workshop sessions? Keep sessions short, on time and on track.

BE FLEXIBLE: Always be prepared for the schedule to run over time or speakers not able to attend, so have some flexibility

to be another

continuing it through to the interior in terms of messaging and achieving consistency in terms of presentation. It doesn’t have to be overkill either. It’s more about understanding that all of your design elements have a visual and emotive impact on your client and therefore how they perceive you as a business.

We’re passionate about helping clients select the right materials and understanding how signage can be a valuable part of a marketing mix. When approached in a considered way we can help ensure it says everything you want to say about your brand to make you stand out.

parcsigns.co.uk

built into your event. If people need to take a call or deal with an urgent email, then they should feel comfortable to do so. Following the pandemic, people are now used to working at home and having more freedom in their schedule, so it’s important to consider this in your planning.

BE ECO-FRIENDLY: Consider how your event can be environmentally mindful. Reduce single use plastics, recycle, encourage car sharing, EV charging and provide vegan menu options.

If you would like to consider hosting your event at St Austell Conference, you can contact our friendly team on 01726 624200 or email info@staustellbusinesspark.co.uk

www.staustellconferencecentre.co.uk

With rising energy prices and inflationary pressures,

looks

year of challenges for us all, says Parc Signs MD Karen Barnett. In such conditions we are all looking at how we can make savings but at the same time maintain or increase market share.

St Austell Conference Centre manager, Kelly Tait, shares these great tips on how to hold a business seminar or event to remember!

SKILLS

HOW STAFF INVESTMENT CAN BOOST YOUR BUSINESS

The new year brings with it the opportunity for us to consider what has been, most would agree that 2022 was more volatile than we could have predicted. Having weathered the storm through a global pandemic, businesses were faced with a fresh set of challenges including a cost-of-living crisis, fuel crisis and rising interest rates; all while juggling a skills and labour shortage.

2023 may not be offering the prospect of a new start for many companies, however it does present an opportunity

the best possible position for the coming year.

RETENTION VS RECRUITMENT:

So why then, should you consider a skills budget and training plan for your business in 2023 and beyond.

We all know the benefits of training; improved morale, increased staff retention, fresh perspectives, and continual improvement for the company to state but a few –however what do the cold hard facts say?

The Association for Talent Development states that a staggering 218% higher income per employee is achieved by businesses who have a formalised training plan compared to those without. In additional to this, these companies benefit from a 24% higher profit margin than those who choose not to invest in skills development.

Further analysis from PwC showed that 85%

of businesses have or anticipate shortages in essential skills.

RETHINKING YOUR BUDGET:

On average, the recruitment of a new staff member costs around 20-30% of the new hire’s annual salary. In Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly this is an average of £3-5k per role. When we consider the costs of recruitment, it isn’t just the price of promotion but the time and resources that need to be utilised from the point of writing a job description and interviewing, through to

place your

that individual being fully trained in the role.

Investment in staff training is proven to increase the retention of your already skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced team. Imagine the impact that even half the cost of a new recruit would have on your team if spent on training. Harvard Business Review stated that 97% of employees would learn new skills if they were given the opportunity. While an IBM study in 2021 showed that your team are 12 times more like to leave their role if they are not given sufficient workforce development.

SKILLS FOR 2023:

Here at the Skills Hub, we like to do the heavy lifting for you. We have lined up some

to

business in

Investment in staff training is proven to increase retention

of the top skills your business needs in 2023 and beyond.

Firstly, it is important to ensure you and your team have “transferable skills”, ensuring that the business is best equipped for any challenges which may occur in 2023. They enable a workforce to be flexible and adaptable, moving seamlessly and able to pivot as required.

Transferable skills include creativity, critical thinking, excellent communication skills, time management and attention to detail. Additionally for leaders and managers we must provide the skills to manage change within the workplace and be able to make informed decisions while encouraging collaboration.

Benefit from a 24% higher profit margin

clients, customers, suppliers, and contract holders are progressively measuring the sustainability of those they work with and utilising this as a deciding factor to do business with you. Harness individuals in the team who are passionate about change and use them as leaders within your company to grow and adapt your business processes. We are now seeing many more green courses come to market which can also provide your team with easy, practical steps to bring back into the organisation.

team and can be undertaken at any age within all levels of the workforce.

ACCESSING THE RIGHT SKILLS:

Fired up and ready to see how skills investment can boost your business?

Digital skills and sustainability are on the tip of every business’ tongue. Following huge transformations to the workplace, it is more critical than ever that every employee has good- excellent digital skills. The reality at present is that many are struggling to get to grips and keep up with the ever-changing technology which can bring you increased efficiency. Digital skills tuition can be internal knowledge sharing or attending training courses and can make a significant impact almost instantly – improving your team’s confidence and creativity. Additionally,

Do you have a member of staff that is looking to progress their role or retrain? Do not forget to consider apprenticeships. Traditionally considered for new hire or as an entry route to the labour market, apprenticeships are a fantastic way to increase the skills of your

Contact the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Skills Hub; the independent and impartial specialists when it comes to all things skills, training and workforce development. Through a free review we can help equip you and your team with the skills needed to ensure that you’re ready to tackle whatever comes next.

Book your FREE skills review today, contact us on 01209 708660 or email hello@ciosskillshub.com

The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Skills Hub is part funded by the European Social Fund and is match funded by Cornwall Council and the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

HOW PATENTS CAN SAVE YOU MONEY

In the current economic climate, any asset that can reduce costs is a valuable one. This is more so, given the planned rise in April 2023 of the Corporation Tax rate to 25%. The Patent Box scheme allows companies holding relevant patents to significantly reduce their tax liability. Truro-based IP specialists N.J. Akers & Co. explain this scheme and how savings can be realised.

The Patent Box scheme allows a company to apply a lower rate of 10% to profits realised from the sale of a patented product or the provision of a related service.

DO WE QUALIFY?

To qualify for the Patent Box scheme, a company must be liable to Corporation Tax, make a profit from commercially exploiting an invention for which a patent has been granted and incurred expenses in acquiring the patent. The company must have carried out development of the patented invention.

WHAT PATENTS ARE ELIGIBLE?

To be eligible for the scheme, the company must hold a GB patent granted by the United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office or a European patent granted by the European Patent Office and validated in the UK. Patents from certain EEA countries can also qualify.

WHAT PROFITS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE LOWER RATE OF CORPORATION TAX?

To qualify for the lower rate of 10% under the scheme, profits should arise from one of the following activities:

• Selling a product covered by the patent or containing parts covered by the patent

• Selling specific spare parts for the patented product

• Licensing the patent to others

• Carry out manufacture using a method or process covered by the patent

• Provide a service to others using a patented product

HOW DO WE ENTER THE PATENT BOX SCHEME?

To enjoy the reduced rate of Corporation Tax an election must be made to HMRC to benefit from the Patent Box scheme. The election must be made no more than two years after the end of the accounting period in which the profits were made.

WHAT SHOULD WE DO?

For companies with one or more patents, a review should be conducted to identify all profits arising from the use of the patented inventions.

This review can include profits arising in past years, as indicated above. An election should then be made to claim the benefit of the Patent Box scheme. Your Accountants will be able to advise further on the qualifying profits and the election.

WHAT CAN WE DO IF WE HAVE NO PATENTS OR WE ARE PLANNING NEW PRODUCTS?

Unfortunately, a patent cannot be obtained for a product that is already on the market and being sold. However, if you have one or more new products in development or changes to an existing product underway, now is a good time to consider a patent strategy to benefit from the Patent Box. It is important to remember that any application for a patent that will be used for the Patent Box scheme must be filed before details of the new product are published or the product is launched.

Our team at N.J. Akers & Co. can help you devise and implement a strategy to

secure patents to qualify for the Patent Box relief. In particular, we have developed a range of strategies for obtaining targeted patents specifically for election into the Patent Box scheme.

Please contact us by phone or email, if you would like to know more.

N.J. Akers & Co. is a firm of Chartered Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys, based in the South West of England, representing clients throughout the UK, Europe, North America and the Far East. From brand and design protection to patenting new technologies, we are well placed to assist companies with their IP needs, including preparing and filing new patent applications for innovative technology, as well as preparing and filing trade mark and design applications to protect new brands and products.

We have an experienced, approachable and responsive team, providing our clients with commercially-focussed IP advice and related services.

www.njakers.com | 01872 266810

AUTOMATION, AUTOMATION, AUTOMATION.

This is definitely not a new trend, but it continues to become more and more important for improving performance, cost efficiency, and keeping up with the competition. Make sure you are automating routine processes but also assisting algorithms and machines with their learning by providing accurate and relevant data for your business objectives.

Google CPC inflation is pressuring marketing, driving up costs, and reducing growth and potential profits for businesses. I believe that automation will be the single biggest lever to

INNOVATION

eECOMMERCE

BECOME

A CHAMELEON

The world of PPC (Google Ads) in 2023 continues on the same path but with some unexpected twists.

pull in marketing in 2023 to negate some of these effects.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE.

The increasing complexity in the digital customer journey and the recent instability in the global markets are making decisionmaking and optimization even more complicated for humans.

AI solutions will be more important for advertisers in 2023 and the years to come, especially for identifying and targeting intent, the likelihood of converting, and conversion value prediction.

I believe this will be critical for B2B customers. It will soon be very difficult to compete without a good AI solution that is fed with accurate data across the customer journey.

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

Are you a Cornwall-based innovator looking to penetrate the health and care sector? Our free workshops are designed by industry leaders to support innovators on their journey to successfully working with the health and care system.

These workshops will provide key insights, learnings and tips on how to progress through the sector with your innovation.

PRACTICAL INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH EQUITY IN CO-DESIGN AND DIGITAL INNOVATION

To provide an interactive session with practical and evidence-based guidance on how to meaningfully undertake co-design in healthcare innovation with a particular focus on ensuring health equity.

• Explore the meaning and importance of health equity in relation to innovation.

• Understand the principles of meaningful co-design.

• Consider practical examples of how to design, deliver and evaluate co-design activities through a health equity lens.

GRANT WRITING MASTERCLASS

The Grant Writing Masterclass offers you an opportunity to engage with Kevin Brooks of BrooksKebbey Ltd, successful in supporting £31.2 million in funding awards to better understand the world of funding grants available to innovators in the health and care space, as well as how to successfully apply for funding.

MARKET INSIGHT SURGERY

Our Smartline Market Insight Surgeries are ideal for companies looking to learn more

BECOME A CHAMELEON.

The sudden changes in almost all aspects of life in recent years have shown that the companies structured in an agile way to quickly adapt – by pivoting offerings, advertising, and communication – are more resilient and successful.

Since we see that the coming period will be equally unpredictable globally, I recommend preparing for the unexpected and working on an adaptable PPC structure.

For more information visit www.marwickmarketing.co.uk or e-mail me on christian@marwickmarketing.com

about the health and care landscape in the south west, and how their products might fit in to the market. This session will include topics such as:

• An overview of the NHS and the different sectors that it is composed of.

• How to assess and improve your value proposition for NHS audiences.

• How the South West AHSN and other organisations can support you on your journey through the innovation pathway.

For further information and to sign up to any of the workshops, head to www.smartline.org.uk/events

For any further queries, please contact innovation@swahsn.com

Ben Hugill, project manager at South West Academic Health Science Network, explains the opportunities for Cornish innovators in the health and care sector.

APPRENTICESHIPS

NEW BUSINESS LEAD FOR REGION’S LARGEST COLLEGE GROUP

Steve brings with him a diverse wealth of career experience across both the private and public sector.

After a six-year stint in the Royal Marines from the age of 16, Thompson trained as a bricklayer and eventually set up his own construction company specialising in brickwork, scaffolding and civil engineering. The success of the firm saw Thompson go on to employ over 500 construction contracting operatives with a healthy number of apprenticeships at all levels.

Driven to bring together the best of industry leaders and education professionals, Thompson retired from the construction

sector in 2012 to pursue a new career path in further education.

In his new role at TCCG, Thompson is looking forward to “further developing the already positive relationships with our local and regional business partners.”

“We are known as the ‘career college’ and my focus is on promoting mutually beneficial relationships between education and industry,” Steve explained.

“This will ensure that the pipeline talent we are able to access has a visible line of sight to the employment or promotion destination they aspire to.”

The Cornwall College Group, which includes

For more information about apprenticeships at The Cornwall College Group please visit www.cornwall.ac.uk/ apprenticeships

UK FIRST FOR COLLEGE’S ‘TRAILBLAZER’ ECOLOGY APPRENTICESHIP

The country’s first ever ecological postgraduate degree apprenticeship, provided in partnership between The Cornwall College Group (TCCG) and the Eden Project, continues to go from strengthto-strength.

The unique opportunity to secure a master’s degree in ecological restoration, and specialise in one of three ecological subjects whilst working full-time, has been added to the environmental and conservation courses on offer at Eden Project Learning – a partnership between the world-famous attraction and TCCG.

Now in its third cohort, the programme has grown to include apprentices from large organisations including Defra, Natural England, APHA and the Environment Agency, plus a range of environmental consultancies and local authorities.

Programme manager Michael Hunt described the apprenticeship as “an incredible opportunity for businesses as well as students.

Cornwall College, Bicton College, Duchy College, Falmouth Marine School and Eden Project Learning, is the number one provider of apprenticeships in Cornwall and Devon, having helped over 15,000 people into their career routes over more than a decade.

The Cornwall College Group (TCCG) has welcomed Steve Thompson, who takes on the role of group lead for Business, Innovation & Partnerships.

Helped over 15,000 people into their career routes

“The course has been designed in direct response to the demand seen from within the sector,” Hunt continued:

“The country needs more trained ecologists and apprenticeships offer one of the best ways to get a qualification in such a handson industry – students can earn whilst they learn, and employers will help create experts in the field whilst being seen to have a strong commitment to this vital sector.”

Visit www.cornwall.ac.uk/apprenticeships for more information.

MORE UPSKILLING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADULTS

Skills Bootcamps

The Cornwall College Group is also offering free, flexible courses for up to 16 weeks for adults aged 19+ who are either in work, self-employed, or recently unemployed and live in England.

These bootcamps are designed to equip adults with sector-specific skills and fasttrack to an interview with a local employer. The bootcamps available are:

• Digital Skills in Health and Social Care

• Vehicle Tyre Fitting and EV Awareness

• Electrical Testing and Inspection

• Bricklaying Skills

• Sustainable Development

• Hospitality Skills

• Cyber Security

• Digital Trainer

• Digital Marketing

Find out more or register your interest at www.cornwall.ac.uk/skills-bootcamps

SKILLS FOR CORNWALL PROJECT

The Skills for Cornwall project, under which CCB Training’s new apprenticeships are being developed, supports local business growth by focusing on the development of skills, training programmes and qualifications in sectors identified as priorities by the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership.

The project is part of the Business Clusters project, part-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF).

The project looks at partnering with employers which are ready to share their expertise with the scope of having their insights feed the development of new apprenticeship and degree curriculums that meet the current market needs.

“We have £3K of funding available through our Apprenticeship Development Fund , which is aimed at businesses tasking on new or existing staff members onto an apprenticeship,” explained Lorna Martin, head of apprenticeships and external engagement at CCB Training.

“In return, we ask for feedback on ways to develop the apprenticeship. The insight will enable us to develop new apprenticeships or foundation degree to meet businesses’ future needs.”

To get involved as an employer, contact CCB Training on 0330 1232523 email hello@ccbtraining.co.uk or visit www. ccbtraining.co.uk/skills-for-cornwall

VIDEO WE DON’T DO BORING

Stop putting out rubbish – that’s for Monday nights, says Chris Smith creative director at video production company, Bull and Wolf.

What have you seen lately? Think about where you can pull inspiration. Creativity is about drawing from your references to problem solve, developing and putting those ideas to the test to create something new.

Excuse the facetious joke but this is our primary observation for video content moving into 2023 and it needs correcting.

Businesses know they should be putting out video content but rush the process and are disappointed by the result.

When it comes to designing video briefs and ideas, whether they are to be produced internally or using external help, it’s important to ask yourself and your team some simple questions. This will help you to avoid the outcome none of us want to make or see - another boring video.

Of course, when it comes to any art, ‘good’ is subjective but in the fast-paced, shortattention spanned world of social video, a boring video stands out for all the wrong reasons. Boring videos will be skipped, scrolled past and ignored.

So, let’s run through the questions: Would you watch it? This should be the first thing you ask yourself when considering video in 2023. If you wouldn’t watch, talk about and share it then why should your audience? An engaging video is key, especially in a new era of ‘blink-and-you’ll-miss-it’ attention spans (yes, I’m talking to you skim reader).

Which is the best idea? If the team are throwing out a handful of great ideas it could be tricky to define the best one. So, if you and the team are torn between good ideas - pick the funniest one. Are you suspicious that your video marketing might be boring?

If in doubt, ask an expert: hello@bullandwolf.co - We don’t do boring.

WHAT’S CHANGING?

The copper network used across the UK for telephone communications (commonly referred to as the Public Switch Telephone Network or PSTN and Integrated Services Digital Network or ISDN) will be retired in December 2025. After this point, all phone lines will be powered by VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology.

WHAT IS VOIP AND WHY IS IT A BETTER SOLUTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

VoIP services use your internet connection to transmit voice calls and offers many advantages over traditional landlines:

• It’s scalable. The PSTN and ISDN phone lines require copper cabling, meaning that increasing the number of users on a system

could result in you having to expand on existing infrastructure. With VoIP, you can add extra users quickly and easily.

• It’s flexible. VoIP enables you to make and receive calls through your phone line from any device, making it the perfect solution for those businesses with staff working remotely.

• Advanced features. VoIP can be used to facilitate features like call forwarding, automatic rerouting to the correct department, and integration with your business CRM.

IS YOUR BUSINESS READY FOR THE CHANGE?

Nearly half of UK businesses have already made the switch to a hosted telephony

service, routing calls through their enterprise broadband package. If your current phone system uses ISDN or PSTN lines, you’ll need to start planning for the change now.

At Wildanet, we can help you transition to a VoIP phone system that’s appropriate for your business. Call our business team on 0800 0699906 to find out more.

different Dare to be

– the Stephens Scown

Stephens Scown LLP is a law firm that dares to be different. The first large law firm in the UK to become employee owned, it has continued to grow in strength, attracting people who go the extra mile for their clients and colleagues.

We discover more about this purposeful business as they forge their own path to an exciting future.

Not all law firms, or all lawyers for that matter, are the same. An

innovative and dynamic business, Stephens Scown has evolved from a traditional law practice founded in Cornwall in 1938, to a regional heavyweight with a reputation for doing things differently. Having taken the plunge into the world of employee ownership in 2016, the Firm has achieved not only success for its employees, but proved that like many businesses who have chosen the employee ownership path, that the transition has had a positive impact on the outcomes of its clients too.

way

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO CLIENT CARE

One of Stephens Scown’s key strategic goals is delivering above and beyond for its clients. This means that from initial enquiry, right through the client experience journey, the Firm has committed to achieving the client’s best possible outcomes, in turn building longer term relationships as a business’s or individual’s trusted advisor.

Receiving national recognition as Highly Commended for client service in last year’s Modern Law Awards, the Firm has not rested on its laurels, but pushed further to enhance the experience of clients.

A ‘one firm’ ethos to support collaborative working

RICHARD BAKER (MANAGING PARTNER)

ALEX MACKIE (CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER)

CORNWALL TRUSTEES

DEVON TRUSTEES

Managing partner Richard Baker says: “We remain focused on our goal of becoming a Top 100 Law Firm, with a clear road map of how we are going to achieve this. Key to this is employing the right people in the right roles and over the last year we have made a number of strategic appointments. In 2021, we recruited Alex Mackie into a new Chief Operating Officer role to support the Firm in achieving its strategic goals, while Mark Shepherd joined us from the John Lewis Partnership as our People Development Director. We have now also expanded our client care team earlier this year, with Alistair Tudor joining as our new senior client manager, tasked with building up our new super responsive client services team. The centralised enquiries team he has built from scratch already has a bespoke enquiry system taking enquiries for the legal teams to triage client requirements and further improve our clients’ experience.”

Alistair Tudor adds, “The changes we have implemented

with a new enquiries team means any new clients who do not yet have an existing relationship with us, receive a prompt response and we are then able to arrange an appointment with the most appropriate legal adviser whose expertise fits the client’s needs. Legal advisers then receive full details of the matter and are better prepared for the initial discussion and, with details of the matter already given, the client gets more time receiving advice. The team is also reviewing the Firm’s already comprehensive client feedback system, ensuring clients’ needs are monitored over the course of a matter, not just at the end.”

PEOPLE POWERED

At the heart of making Stephens Scown stand out from the crowd are its people, brought together across the south west under a ‘one firm’ ethos to support collaborative working, and again improvements in client service.

Offering the very best benefits of working in the south west, with spectacular coast and countryside on the doorstep, while harnessing the power of communication channels to open up remote working options, Stephens Scown is attracting both local talent and

those choosing to move, either in part or fully, away from the pressures of big city living elsewhere in the UK.

This has included welcoming new partners Jill Bruce (family), Joe Nicholls (employment), Aimee Barrable (commercial real estate) and most recently Charles Hodder (also commercial real estate) to the Firm, alongside senior associates Anna Garde-Evans (disputes resolution), Sarah Hindle (family), Julie Fuell (real estate – residential), and Loretta Commons (planning).

EVOLVING EMPLOYEE EXPERIENCE

The unique culture of Stephens Scown as a great place to work, providing a genuine work-life balance for its employees, is one to admire and was recognised by the Firm’s inclusion in the Top 100 Best Companies to work for in the UK for seven consecutive years.

Catherine Mathews, commercial dispute resolution lawyer and employee experience board member at the Firm, has been working with people development director Mark Shepherd, HR Director Lucy Palmer and head of the brand engagement and customer experience team, Sam Paley, to enhance the experience of Stephen Scown employees.

CATHERINE MATHEWS (COMMERCIAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION PARTNER & BOARD MEMBER)

The Firm has not rested on its laurels, but pushed further

JOE NICHOLLS (EMPLOYMENT PARTNER)

MARK SHEPHERD (PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR)

ALISTAIR TUDOR (SENIOR CLIENT MANAGER)

JILL BRUCE (FAMILY PARTNER)

VERITY SLATER (EMPLOYMENT PARTNER & BOARD MEMBER)

“There’s no denying that Covid has been a challenge to us all, both in people’s personal and professional lives. However, making sure we kept in touch with and supported our people throughout as a key priority, increasing our internal communications and implementing a number of initiatives to boost engagement, we have transformed the way we do business.

“We now have a hybrid working structure, created with the input from our people, with team anchor days and at least two days working from the office but the flexibility to combine this with days working from home.

“We are now in the process of re-establishing the important in-person connections colleagues have with each other, including restarting various social clubs, such as our Firm choir and fitness classes, utilising technology and creating an employee-led engagement programme.”

This dedication to looking after employee wellbeing has recently been recognised with a shortlisting in the national Family Law Awards, which celebrates law firms that support the mental and physical health of its staff, members or colleagues, and enables them to maintain a healthy balance between their work pressures and home life.

BUSINESS AS A FORCE FOR GOOD

Never before has it been so important for businesses to consider their impact on people and our planet. Championed by employment lawyer and Stephens Scown board member, Verity Slater, the Firm established a comprehensive Giving Back programme in 2018, enabling and inspiring colleagues to carry out good works through charity fundraising, reducing their impact on the environment, undertaking a range of pro bono projects and taking part in group and individual volunteering opportunities, for which employees receive three additional days volunteer leave over and above their normal annual leave.

Slater says: “Keeping our Giving Back programme running through Covid was challenging but essential, and I am delighted to say that everyone managed to find new ways to support our communities, from delivering food parcels to vulnerable people unable to leave their homes to helping out at vaccination centres.”

So, what next for the Firm’s sustainability journey? While continuing the success of the Giving Back programme, the Firm started to look at how this could develop further. The answer, Verity decided, was to become certified as a B Corporation or B Corp –

which means independently verified by B Lab to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. The Firm has been undergoing the rigorous certification process and is at the precipice of achieving its B Corp accreditation.

Slater says: “Achieving B Corp Certification will mark an important milestone in our transformational journey of measuring, managing and improving our impact as a business. It also marks the start of an exciting new chapter as we join a dynamic and supportive community of like-minded companies – in the UK and across the world – using business as a force for good.”

So, watch this space for the next exciting announcement to come from Stephens Scown in the not too distant future. In the meantime, if you have a legal matter that needs sorting, why not get in touch to see what solutions the Firm can offer.

www.stephens-scown.co.uk

LORETTA COMMONS (PLANNING, SENIOR ASSOCIATE)

ANNA GARDE-EVANS (DISPUTE RESOLUTION, SENIOR ASSOCIATE)

AIMEE BARRABLE (COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE PARTNER)

SARAH HINDLE (FAMILY, SENIOR ASSOCIATE)

CHARLES HODDER (COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE PARTNER)

JULIE FUELL (REAL ESTATE – RESIDENTIAL, SENIOR ASSOCIATE)

FINE FOOD HAMPERS

Sending thoughtful personalised gifts to your customers is a great way to build relationships, to thank them for their business, and ensure you remain top of their list. Our handpacked, beautiful hampers and gifts are full of incredible regional produce and come with free personalisation. Whether you’re looking for one or 100 our helpful, knowledgeable team will be able to help make your corporate gifting experience smooth and easy. Call 01872 211866 or visit our website.

thefinefoodhamper.com

THE CHRISTMAS INDULGENCE HAMPER

A festive feast that makes a lavish gesture. Bringing together the best of Cornwall to kickstart the Christmas celebrations. Beautifully presented, our Christmas Indulgence hamper is guaranteed to amaze, and sure to be the cornerstone of your lucky recipients’ holiday celebrations.

www.thecornishhamperstore.co.uk

WEIRD FISH

Add some Scandinavian style to your wardrobe with the Arina Fair Isle Jumper. Featuring a Nordic-inspired design and made from a super soft and warm fabric blend, you’ll love wearing this jumper all season. Pair with jeans for a casual weekend look or dress up with a beautiful printed skirt and boots. www.weirdfish.co.uk

wishlist

RODDA’S CORNISH CLOTTED CREAM

The Rodda family have been crafting their Cornish clotted cream for five generations, so it’s a must have for any Christmas dinner celebrations. Why not try their limited-edition brandy Cornish clotted cream, which is perfect for the festive season.

Rodda’s classic clotted cream is available in supermarkets nationally and Rodda’s brandy clotted cream is available in Morrisons and Waitrose stores, as well as regional stockists. www.roddas.co.uk

SEA MAIDEN

The creation of this dark Cornish spiced rum from Mother’s Ruin 1751 was inspired by the Cornish legend the Mermaid of Zennor. This rum emulates her dulcet tones that are as sweet as honey and with a generous pour into your glass comes a song that can lure anyone into the balmy waters that lap the Cornish coast.

info@mothersruin1751.co.uk

Business Cornwall are proud to present a few seasonal suggestions to add in your letter to Santa...

Help make it so by sending hand-made award winning Cornish cheeses straight from Lynher Dairies to any UK address on a date of your choice. Leafy Yarg, handsome Kern or creamy Stithians, beautifully presented and safely delivered at: www.lynherdairies.co.uk

CHRISTMAS DINNER BOX

Get everything you need for a traditional Christmas dinner delivered to your door with an award-winning Christmas Dinner Box that supports local farmers and producers. There are plenty of options to suit all family sizes and choices including whole turkeys, ribs of beef and vegetarian pies. Save yourself the hassle of the Christmas shop and get quality, local produce delivered to your door. Last orders are Friday December 16. Call 01872 211533 or visit our website. thecornishfoodboxcompany.co.uk

COLWITH FARM

Colwith Farm Distillery is Cornwall’s first single estate distillery. A family run business of fifth generation Cornish potato farmers, who create award-winning spirits sustainably. Their Aval Dor Vodka and Gin is not to be missed and they also have festive favourites including Christmas Pudding Vodka and Christmas Gin, make-your-own-spirit experiences, gift vouchers, hampers, and cocktails by post for Christmas 2022.

www.colwithfarmdistillery.co.uk

MAINBRACE RUM

Mainbrace is a multi-award-winning familyowned brand based in Helford Passage, Cornwall. Encapsulating the spirit of the sea, Mainbrace Rum is a blend of two styles that have never been bottled together before, making Mainbrace Premium Golden Rum a delicious and unique gift during the festive season. www.mainbracerum.com

TRIBUTE PALE ALE

Enjoy a cracker of a pale ale. Fresh, zesty and full of orange and grapefruit flavours, balanced with a characterful, malty base. Tribute pairs perfectly with chicken and fish dishes. Now available in a 10x440ml can pack.

staustellbreweryshop.co.uk

UNFORGETTABLE CELEBRATIONS

Over 300 guests were celebrating last month (November 17) as the winners of the 21st annual Cornwall Tourism Awards were announced in Truro Cathedral.

65 awards were presented in wide ranging categories from accessible and inclusive tourism and dog-friendly business to large hotel and holiday park of the year. Guests were ‘spellbound’ by an aerial performance from the Off The Wall Aerial Dance Circus and enjoyed a wide range of Cornish food and drink.

Four surprise awards were announced with two awards for Outstanding Contribution to Cornish Tourism presented. The first was to Nigel Burnett, director of Trebah Garden, for his 20 plus years developing Trebah and other top attractions into multiple award winning destinations. Guests then gave a standing ovation as a further Outstanding Contribution award was announced for Visit Cornwall’s Malcolm Bell, who was praised by awards organiser Robin Barker for his vision, innovation and courage in over 30 years of tourism leadership.

There was also a special Tourism Leadership award presented to Forever Cornwall, and the evening ended with a further ovation for Hendra Holiday Park,

HEALTHIER HOSPITALITY

winning Winner of Winners for their multiple success over 50 years of operation.

Most winners will now be considered for the South West Tourism Excellence Awards to be presented at Eden Project in March 2023 and possibly invited to represent Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly in the 2023 national VisitEngland Awards.

Malcolm Bell, chief executive of Visit Cornwall, said: “The 21st Cornwall Tourism Awards celebrated the hard work and investments, not only by the owners, but by the managers and staff of amazing businesses. Over the last two decades the awards have been a driver in creating a step change in the quality of our tourism offer.

“I was surprised and humbled to receive my award for outstanding contribution to tourism.”

Awards organiser Robin Barker of Services for Tourism, a long-time colleague of Malcolm Bell, commented: “After a wait of three years since our last face-to-face awards ceremony it was a delight to celebrate with Cornwall’s leading tourism businesses once again. I was especially honoured to be invited to announce the special award to Malcolm Bell, who has done so much to transform tourism in Cornwall and beyond.”

recently to drive the creation of a healthier hospitality sector with help from Truro and Penwith College’s employer-led project for this key Cornish industry.

The event, ‘Healthy Hospitality’, focused on both operating sustainable business for the planet but also supporting a sustainable workforce, with future skills at the forefront.

ALL ACTION AT AIRPORT

Flybe recently returned to Cornwall Airport Newquay recently, two and a half years after going into administration.

Now under new ownership, the regional airline is operating double daily flights to London Heathrow and daily to Manchester.

Dave Pflieger, Flybe CEO, said: “We believe it is critical to add routes like this to our network to not only support Flybe’s mission of providing customers with better regional connectivity, but also ensure we continue to provide convenience and comfort at a great value.”

Amy Smith, head of commercial at Cornwall Airport Newquay, added: “It’s fantastic to be welcoming the new Flybe to Cornwall Airport Newquay. The daily flights to London Heathrow and Manchester will add much needed extra capacity as well as additional options for passengers on two of our key markets.”

Cornwall Airport Newquay also announced details of a new route, starting next April.

Aer Lingus Regional will fly a four-times weekly service to Belfast City, while it will also increase the frequency of its Dublin service, allowing for improved connections to the carrier’s transatlantic flights from Dublin.

Amy Smith said: “It’s fantastic that Aer Lingus Regional sees the potential of not only increasing the frequency of our Dublin connection, but also adding a new destination to Belfast for our passengers.

“We expect fantastic results from both routes next year due to the enhancement of destination options available to those wishing to fly from Cornwall. The new routes also increase opportunity for overseas markets to reach us with ease, helping us support Cornish tourism.”

Furthermore, Ryanair has announced its biggest ever schedule to fly out of Cornwall Airport Newquay.

Eddie Wilson, CEO of Ryanair DAC, was at the airport recently to unveil the airline’s summer schedule, which in addition to Alicante and Faro, will include three new routes to Dublin, London Stansted and Malaga.

Managers, leaders, and owners of hospitality businesses from across Cornwall gathered at The Lost Gardens of Heligan

CAINES RESTAURANT CLOSES

Chef Michael Caines has closed down his Porthleven restaurant for the “foreseeable future”.

Caines opened The Harbourside Refuge in the summer of 2020, taking over the site of the former Rick Stein restaurant.

But faced with the challenges of Brexit, Covid, staff shortages and now the cost-ofliving crisis, he said the business “was not sustainable to survive through the winter months to come” and “with a heavy heart that we have chosen to close”.

Many staff members have been moved to Caines’ other Cornish establishment – the Cove in Maenporth. Caines added that he hoped that after weathering the winter months, Harbourside Refuge would be able to return.

STEIN BACK TO SCHOOL

Jack Stein has opened the newly-developed kitchens at Wadebridge School.

The well-known local chef, son of Rick Stein, collaborated with Truro and Penwith College’s hospitality co-ordinator Tony Duce to put on a special demo for students.

The collaboration allows Wadebridge School to not only promote the hands-on skills required by the industry, but also the opportunities that can come with careers in hospitality.

Stein said: “I wish I had a facility like this when I was in secondary school. Hospitality is the growth industry in Cornwall. We normally see students come through Truro and Penwith College, so it’s great to see students learn before that stage – this is the school my kids will be coming to, its great they have a brand-new kitchen facility and looks fantastic.”

A DOUBLE HELPING

A Truro café has been awarded both a Travellers’ Choice award by Trip Advisor and a Gold award from Taste of the West, for the second year running.

The TripAdvisor award relies on customer reviews and is given to “restaurants that consistently deliver amazing experiences”. According to TripAdvisor, this award puts Bread & Butter “in the top 10% of restaurants worldwide”.

The Taste of the West accolade, meanwhile, relies on the approval of experienced judges, who tour the region assessing hospitality establishments. In their report, the judges spoke of Bread & Butter’s “commitment to local sourcing” and dishes that were “very healthy but without compromising on their delicious flavour”.

EDEN OUT TO LUNCH

The Eden Project has regained the top spot in a table that rates family-friendly food offerings in visitor attractions across the UK.

The Out to Lunch campaign, from food and farming charity the Soil Association, asked undercover diners to assess the quality of food being served in a range of venues, from museums to theme parks.

Their findings will now be used to make tailored recommendations to a shortlist of 16 of the UK’s most popular visitor attractions,

with a view to make what they serve more healthy, sustainable and family-friendly.

This is the second time Eden has topped the table, having previously come in at the #1 spot in 2016.

Becky Fenner, Eden’s hospitality manager, said: “We are delighted to have come top of the Out to Lunch league table. We explore ways to deliver Earth-friendly food at scale using a food system rather than a food product approach, finding ways of producing food in a regenerative system that is climate positive, increases biodiversity and enhances soil health.

Healthy planet – healthy people.”

AWARD FOR FOCUS

Focus Technology has received a special recognition award from cloud communication partner NFON for achieving higher than forecast sales in the past year.

NFON is demonstrating strong growth in the UK and is delivering cutting edge hosted voice communications, call recording, monitoring and analytics and customer engagement

solutions through partners like Focus.

Focus MD, Andrew Davenport, said: “The last few years have been challenging for a lot of businesses. Seeing a major shift on how and where people want to work has enabled us to offer the superb NFON platform to address the challenges associated with a mobile workforce.”

A start-up from Falmouth University’s, Launchpad, has released a new platform to allow anyone to create live interactive gameshows.

Codices, one of the UK’s leading interactive gameshow creators, started its gameshow journey on the livestreaming platform Twitch where it launched its gameshow extension Quiz Kit, which amassed over four million monthly viewers and has been used by over a million different live streamers to create live online quiz shows.

Codices co-founder and CEO, Tim Edwards, explained: “The one thing everyone wants to do when watching a gameshow is play along. We found by making them live and interactive it increased

the enjoyment factor significantly.”

Adrian Scales, senior investment manager at Falmouth University, said: “Following the success of Quiz Kit it’s brilliant to see Codices launching their own standalone platform for content creators. We’re incredibly excited to continue to work with the team on this next step in their journey.”

B CORP FOR XIGXAG

Cornish tech startup, xigxag, has been awarded B Corp status.

Xigxag, which has developed an audiobook app, joins 5,700 companies across world that have committed to positive social and environmental benefits as part of a conscientious movement to harness the power of business as a force for good.

Co-founder, Kelli Fairbrother, says the accreditation forms a cornerstone of xigxag’s strategy to differentiate from big tech competitors.

She said: “Achieving B Corp certification is one of the best accolades to be awarded. It validates our ambition to make books more accessible, engaging and sustainable. And it allows us to credibly start a conversation in our industry about the essential role that digital books must play in the future of sustainable book consumption.”

Penzance-based digital marketing agency, Target, has launched the ‘Performance Marketing Podcast’.

ROYAL VISIT TO GOONHILLY

HRH The Princess Royal was at Goonhilly Earth Station recently to learn about Cornwall’s pioneering place in the evolution of the UK space industry.

As part of her visit, she was able to hear about Goonhilly’s support for NASA’s pivotal Artemis-I Mission, which marks the beginning of a new phase of lunar exploration.

NEW LIVESTREAMING PLATFORM PODCAST ON TARGET

Ian Jones, CEO at Goonhilly Earth Station said: “Welcoming The Princess Royal in our 60th year offered an opportunity to shine a light on the exciting space activity happening here in Cornwall and the cluster development we have been able to stimulate.”

Podcast host and head of growth at Target, Josh Fletcher, invites leading experts from the digital marketing industry, including data scientists, paid search specialists and influencer marketing experts, to participate in lively discussions about their area of expertise, trends and best practices.

In a recent episode, ‘Optimising Your Website for Voice Search’, Fletcher speaks to James Poulter, the CEO of Vixen Labs – a global leader in voice search marketing.

“We are so excited to launch The Performance Marketing Podcast”, said Fletcher. “Our intention is to offer our peers a fun and informal source of information where they can gain insights and draw on the experiences of industry heavyweights and thought leaders.”

The Performance Marketing Podcast is available to stream now on a number of platforms including on YouTube and Spotify.

CORNWALL CHAMBER CHIEF EXECUTIVE, KIM CONCHIE, REFLECTS ON THE AUTUMN STATEMENT.

It’s my favourite time of year – absolute chaos for the diary, but the chance to catch up with lots of businesses at their Christmas gatherings.

Recently, I was at Heligan experiencing the wonder of their Night Garden. Despite tough economic conditions, our local businesses continue to pull out all the stops to drive

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES

Cornwall’s economy and bring joy to local families. Please support them this year and remember to buy local!

TIMES AHEAD

Speaking of tough economic conditions, I should comment on the Autumn statement which as I write this, has just been announced.

I was heartened by the Chancellor following through on his promise to focus on financial stability and fairness with a long term plan to rebuild the UK economy. Whilst it’s a tough statement, it’s tougher on top earners, so I do get the sense that this plan shares the pain.

The top rate tax threshold cut from £150,000 to £125,140 is fair, and the tax cut on business rates is positive, as is the retention of the employment allowance. I like the focus on innovation and I’m a fan of an increase in R&D tax credits for business.

I’m pleased that energy bills are being kept under review – although the pressure is now on the government to pull something out the bag for our businesses come March, otherwise many will be in a very difficult situation during what’s projected to be an

SPACEPORT CORNWALL AND A NEW ERA

I can’t sign off without mentioning Spaceport Cornwall.

Congratulations to Melissa Thorpe and the team on securing the CAA licence which will enable flights to start from here in Cornwall.

This month, I was lucky enough to have a tour followed by a dinner, where we heard from Melissa Thorpe (Spaceport Director), Robert Freeman MP, Minister for Space Development, Dan Jarvis from Virgin Orbit, Linda Taylor leader of Cornwall Council and Ian Annett of UKSA.

Over the years, I’ve been involved with so many different organisations which have worked tirelessly trying to broaden the skills offering for our young people here in Cornwall. The opportunities that Spaceport and pioneering

renewable solutions in Cornwall like lithium, FLOW and geothermal bring are the muchneeded boost that young people wanting to study STEM subjects at school, need.

Crucially, Cornwall’s reinvention of itself could also end an era of poorly paid jobs being the order of the day.

I really feel like this is the start of something new for Cornwall: a symbol of the Duchy regaining leadership in something - probably for the first time in a century.

I’m absolutely thrilled for Spaceport Cornwall and excited about what the future holds. Cornwall has a rich history in scientific advancement and innovation, and to me it feels as though we’re finally getting our mojo back.

18 month recession.

I like the idea of VAT registration threshold remaining frozen - I personally think more and more businesses should be registered for VAT anyway.

The reduction in the dividend allowance is going to hit small businesses, so that’s not great for Cornwall. I would also like to have seen more on export-led growth: building our reputation back up overseas should be an absolute priority for the government, and our exporters could deliver fantastic growth if they were supported sufficiently.

Another concern I have, is that the government appears to have taken its eye off the ball when it comes to green innovation, as if it needs to sort out the state of the economy first and then will have some head space to consider saving the planet. I would argue that firstly, saving the planet is not something that can be put on hold, and secondly, investment in green innovation would be a very effective way of driving the UK economy.

Finally, it was fantastic that Cornwall was mentioned in relation to advanced discussions on a mayoral devolution deal – I think it is essential for Cornwall to debate this urgently.

Cornwall Chamber of Commerce is an independent not-for-profit organisation accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce. We solely exist to represent businesses in Cornwall. Our events provide a platform for businesses to connect, create and make valuable business relationships. Membership to the Chamber starts from as little as £17 +VAT per month and provides you with the tools to promote your business.

ELEANOR CELEBRATES WINNING CONSTRUCTION AND TRADE OCCUPATIONS APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

CHARLI STYLES, PROGRAMME TEAM LEADER FOR FUTURE SKILLS AT THE COLLEGE WELCOMED GUESTS TO THE EVENT

NEIL CADDY FROM PIRATE FM, CO-PRESENTER OF THE SEVENTH ANNUAL CORNWALL APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

HOLLY DAY FROM PIRATE FM, CO-PRESENTER OF THE SEVENTH ANNUAL CORNWALL APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

JUST SOME OF THE HOSPITALITY APPRENTICES AND STAFF INVOLVED IN PREPARING AND SERVING THE MOUTH-WATERING MENU

THE WINNERS AND HIGHLY COMMENDED OF 2022

Three

crowns

Employers, apprentices and their families celebrated an historic Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards on Friday as the seventh annual event at Truro and Penwith College crowned its first triple-award winner.

Presented by Pirate FM’s Holly Day and Neil Caddy, in partnership with DL Accounts Ltd and sponsored by a host of local and national businesses, the Awards recognised the exceptional achievement of 42 shortlisted learners and employers across 16 categories.

2022 was an historic event with 36-year-old apprentice Lois Craze, Deputy Security Manager at FX Plus, becoming the Awards’ very first tripleaward winner, scooping Management Apprentice of the Year, Apprentice Achiever of the Year, and the coveted Cornwall’s Apprentice of the Year 2022.

The Large Apprentice Employer of the Year award was won by A&P Falmouth with 70% of its current leadership team starting their careers as apprentices within the group.

SME Employer of the Year was won by The Lost Gardens of Heligan, with judges describing the organisation as ‘a shining beacon of good practice in the apprenticeship arena.’

Martin Tucker, Principal at Truro and Penwith College commented: “We were delighted to host the seventh Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards and to celebrate exceptional achievement in apprenticeship training.

THE AWARD WINNERS

• Large Employer of the Year, sponsored by Foot Anstey LLP: A&P Falmouth

• SME Employer of the Year, sponsored by Inn Cornwall Ltd: The Lost Gardens of Heligan

• Hospitality Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by BIIAB: Aaron Robbins, The Lost Gardens of Heligan

• Accountancy Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by GetMyFirstJob: Jamie Sherwood, St Petrocs

• Construction and Trade Occupations Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by RS Renovations: Eleanor Greenwood, CG Fry and Son

• Health, Care and Public Services Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust: Maeve Hoey, Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

• Digital and IT Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by University of Exeter: Amelia Hopkinson, King’s Business Ltd

• Business Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Cornwall Apprenticeships: Rachael Carter, Cornwall Council

• Management Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Skills Hub: Lois Craze, FX Plus

• Marketing Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Bull & Wolf Film Co: Lowenna Hoskin, Hertzian

• Hair and Beauty Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by VTCT: Rose Bassett, Escape Beauty Salon

training

Lois Craze commented: “I’m over the moon, I feel absolutely overwhelmed, really happy and proud. I was just happy to be shortlisted. I’m really proud to be a women in a role that is traditionally male dominated and to be winning awards for that as well!”

2022 also marked a very successful year for Truro and Penwith College as its learners came out on top in 10 of the 14 Apprentice categories.

“2022 is an exciting time for apprenticeships at the College with recent multi-million-pound infrastructure investments aiding curriculum development and providing the people of Cornwall with facilities that rival the best the UK has to offer.

“Congratulations to all nominees, we can’t wait to see where their careers take them.”

The presentation was preceded by a delicious dinner, prepared and served by College apprentices and full-time Hospitality students, with generous sponsorship of trophies and table decorations from Corbey Construction and EAL. Cornwall Live and Business Cornwall supported throughout as official media sponsors.

• Motor Vehicle Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Supercharged Cornwall: Samuel Holt, HiQ Tyres and Autocare

• Engineering and Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by WES Engineering Solutions: Jack Robertson, Teagle Machinery Ltd

• Land-based Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Teagle Machinery Ltd: Clover Smith, Maria’s Animal Shelter

• Apprentice Achiever of the Year, sponsored by Award Partners DL Accounts Ltd: Lois Craze, FX Plus

• Cornwall’s Apprentice of the Year 2022, sponsored by Truro and Penwith College: Lois Craze, FX Plus.

To celebrate exceptional achievement in apprenticeship

First-ever triple award winner crowned at 2022 Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards.

HOLLY DAY AND NEIL CADDY FROM PIRATE FM, WITH TRIPLE AWARD WINNER LOIS CRAZE

NEW BID MANAGER

COODES RECRUIT

A new corporate lawyer has joined Coodes Solicitors’ business services team.

Jack Peart, who is based at the firm’s Truro office, specialises in corporate, commercial, and agricultural matters. Before joining Coodes, Peart trained and worked as a solicitor at a regional law firm in East Anglia and brings with him a wealth of experience in business sales and purchases.

He has dealt with a wide variety of commercial matters, including a £7 million farm sale and was the leading lawyer in a £5.5 million management buyout of an electrical business, as well as the £4 million share sale of a plumbing company.

Coodes’ partner and head of the corporate and commercial team, Kirsty Davey, said: “Jack is a fantastic addition to the firm, and we’re delighted to have him on board.”

Falmouth Harbour has appointed a new commissioner to join its board.

A proud Cornishman with extensive knowledge of the commercial shipping industry, Gerald Pitts enjoyed a successful 46-year career with A&P including stints as MD of A&P Falmouth and MD of A&P Defence.

St Ives Business Improvement District (BID) has appointed a new manager to support the town’s businesses and deliver key services and projects for the Cornish seaside town.

Sarah Hooper, who is also the administrator for the St Ives Lifeboat Station in a voluntary capacity, lives in the town with her husband and their two children who both attend local schools.

She said: “I am delighted to be taking on the role of BID manager. As a local resident, I am hugely passionate about engaging with local businesses and working closely with them to ensure the BID listens to their suggestions, understands their needs and helps facilitate changes.

“BID investments in St Ives have already had a huge impact and I am looking forward to building on the successes already achieved”.

Hooper has a BA (Hons) in business studies and over 20 years’ experience in business management across the retail, hospitality and education sectors.

He said: “In my role as a Falmouth Harbour Commissioner I feel I will be able to combine my extensive knowledge and experience of the commercial shipping world with a lifelong connection with Cornwall in general and Falmouth in particular - providing valuable input and support to the harbour stakeholders and the wider marine community.”

The rare opening as commissioner comes as FHC bids farewell to Gary Tranter after nine years’ service on the board, which manages the trust port, with statutory responsibility for the navigation and conservation of approximately 16 square miles of harbour area.

Pitts will bring his experience of to influence strategy within the FHC remit which covers Falmouth Harbour, Falmouth Haven and Falmouth Pilot Services.

Falmouth Harbour Commissioners chair, Carrie Gilmore, said: “As a small but dynamic board we operate transparently and accountablyand knowing that we will miss Gary’s wisdom and insight, we also feel truly fortunate to have a candidate of Gerald’s calibre to join us.”

TRANSPORT

As the train turns the corner and Mount’s Bay appears in front of me, the sun glinting off a flat calm sea with Penzance in the distance, I sense a surge of intrigue. A journey to Penzance should just be part of my day job, but for some reason this all felt very different.

A cycling accident damaged my left shoulder at the start of the summer holidays meaning I had to rethink how I approached many aspects of work in the weeks ahead. In a job that is largely dictated by road travel, my main challenge was going to be getting around Cornwall and continuing to work properly when driving was not an option. After a quick re-evaluation of everything I needed to do, and with the benefit of living and working in Truro, for the first time ever I started looking at public transport as a serious alternative.

I didn’t realise it at the time but by committing to using the train to get around meant I was about to experience the county in a whole new way and see a number of towns across Cornwall through very different eyes. Nowhere made an impact on me like Penzance.

As the train slowed on its approach to the terminus, my anticipation grew as a number of other holiday makers got ready to leave the train. I have had the pleasure of driving into Penzance on business many times before, usually sitting in slow moving traffic from the St Erth roundabout, but never by train. Unlike many other towns, Penzance is well served by public car parks, but today, I had no need of them. I hopped off the train amidst the throng

of tourists and day trippers and as I walked into the town centre, I started seeing shops and businesses that I had not taken in before.

I delighted in walking up Causewayhead (which thanks to an ill-conceived shopping centre scheme and a change in retailing habits over a number of years has seen its position as the prime shopping street shift to an almost forgotten side road) and I saw a vibrant, diverse and energetic street scene. I wasn’t seeing it in pounds per square foot for once;

I was enjoying it as a holiday maker, a tourist, a sightseer, a new eyeswide visitor soaking up all that this part of Penzance offered. These are not necessarily new shops or businesses, but I was noticing them properly for the first time.

But there is more to this than just the change in my appreciation of a town. Of greater significance was a more cost-effective journey (the price of my train ticket was much the same as car parking, let alone the saving on diesel), it was more time efficient and critically it was also a sustainable model for town centre property inspection.

Why had I not done this before? A number of Cornwall’s bigger towns sit right on the main line or have well-serviced branch lines that lead straight to the centre of town. No faff

I cannot count the number of car trips I have made to places like Penzance, St Austell or Liskeard specifically for town centre appointments. It is impossible to quantify the time spent sitting in, and contributing towards, traffic or searching for parking spaces and the hours lost to inactivity behind the wheel as well as the unnecessary cost of fuel and parking. The experience this summer has definitely made me rethink whether these downsides are inevitable.

I am aware that Cornwall has a relatively basic public transport provision, nevertheless, a concerted effort to use the train can yield a number of benefits. The importance of sustainable practices, especially in the shadow of a fuel and energy price crisis, will dominate all of our futures.

However, a small shift in mindset for me will mean I can free myself up to work on the hoof, see some financial reward by ignoring the car but enlighteningly, to get to know other places like the many visitors to Cornwall do every year. With great optimism and enthusiasm – and just a dash of holidayinspired sense of adventure - I look to gain a fresh perspective and an insight into towns that otherwise might have passed me by.

over parking, no time limit on the ticket, not to mention the feeling of suppressed adventure.

For some reason this all felt very different

Public transport is an often overlooked resource for towns, that also has a range of other benefits, says Miller Commercial partner, Thomas Smith.

Photo: Matt Jessop Photography

ANTHROPY

Eden played host to Anthropy, an event set to inspire a more equitable, sustainable and successful Britain and beyond. The event was held over three days across 12 stages, with over 130 sessions and 300 speakers.

CHRISTMAS FAIR

On November 23rd, Wild Card invited delegates to Eden where guests sat down to a meal and networking in the Mediterranean biome as well as the chance to browse stalls full of local food & drink, homewares and gifts.

Photos: Toby Weller

SPONSORS DALES: SARA CADGE, MARGARET, CAROLYN PETERS

CORNWALL CHRISTMAS FAIR COMMITTEE

CATHERINE MEAD, FEE TURNER AND SIMON HOLBOROW

COLONEL EDWARD BOLITHO OPENS

CORNWALL CHRISTMAS FAIR WITH KATE HOLBOROW

WILL ASHWORTH, MATTHEW KENWORTHY GOMES, GEORGIE UPTON, PIX ASHWORTH

CHANGE-MAKERS

Businesses who have joined Clean Cornwall as Change-Makers attended their first networking event at the Headland Hotel to join in an interactive session led by Peter Lefort from University of Exeter’s Green Futures Network.

FISHERMEN’S

MISSION

A charity dinner hosted by some of Cornwall’s top chefs at The Alverton in Truro raised over £5.5K for The Fishermen’s Mission.

RAIN BROOKS (BROOKS ESTATES), RACHEL WILLIAMS (SHARPS BREWERY), HENRY ORCHARD (HENRY ORCHARD AND SONS LTD)

RAIN BROOKS (BROOKS ESTATES), STEVE WONNACOTT (SHARPS BREWERY)

NIKKI GEORGE (CRCC), RUTH WILLIAMS (CORNWALL WILDLIFE TRUST)

PETER LEFORT (GREEN FUTURES NETWORK)

QUEEN’S AWARD

Newquay Orchard staff and volunteers came together to receive the Queens Award for Voluntary Service FROM Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Edward Bolitho OBE.

HEALTHY HOSPITALITY

Hospitality leaders gathered at The Lost Gardens of Heligan to drive the creation of a healthier sector with help from Truro and Penwith College’s employer-led project for this key Cornish industry.

COLONEL BOLITHO WITH BRIANT COLWILL (PHOTO: MIKE SEARLE)

VOLUNTEER JANE MULCHES THE NEW TREE (PHOTO: MIKE SEARLE) BRIANT COLWILL AND THE QAVS (PHOTO: MIKE SEARLE)

COO JENNY HINDSON – PICTURED CENTRE (PHOTO: DARRIN KING)

VOLUNTEERS POSE WITH THE SILVER BIRCH

WORKSHOP AT HELIGAN

NEIL HAYDOCK (WATERGATE BAY HOTEL)

MARK LEWIN (TRURO AND PENWITH BUSINESS CONSULTANT)

VOLUNTEER SIMON WITH THE AWARD (PHOTO: MIKE SEARLE)

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DECEMBER 2022 AND JANUARY 2023 EVENTS

DECEMBER 2022

ARCA: DELIVERING SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

Free online course

How can your business deliver social and environmental justice? cornwallchamber.co.uk

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HEARTLANDS BUSINESS NETWORKING BREAKFAST

Heartlands Pool, Redruth

Heartlands Business Networking Breakfast is £10 to attend and includes breakfast and refreshments. heartlandscornwall.com

BC DECEMBER BREAKFAST

The Alverton, Truro

A free breakfast courtesy of ESF Business Clusters at The Alverton followed by a presentation, delivered by Helen Tite from iCareiMove. cornwallchamber.co.uk

CARBON LITERACY TRAINING

Online event

As part of Planet C month, this is a free workshop for SMEs to help

Your Partnerships is Cornwall’s largest networking group, with meetings up and down the Duchy

Growing a business can be challenging. You want your business to be visible to the right people, so it’s important to know how and where to meet them.

Your Partnerships is Cornwall’s largest networking group and it events enable you to connect with other members, gain referrals and build trusting relationships with customers and suppliers.

Your Partnerships, can help your business grow!

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create 200 climate leaders within Cornish businesses. eventbrite.co.uk

CHAMPAGNE FOR BUSINESS

CSpace, Newquay

An introduction to Champagne from vine to dine with industry expert and college alumni Elly Owen. eventbrite.co.uk

PENZANCE BUSINESS BREAKFAST

The Exchange, Penzance

This breakfast offers the opportunity to meet other local businesses & professionals. eventbrite.co.uk

CORNWALL SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS

Truro Cathedral 20th annual award ceremony to celebrate the amazing achievements of the most sustainable organisations in Cornwall and IoS. cornwallsustainabilityawards.org

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CSPACE FESTIVE FEASTS

CSpace, Newquay

This feast evening will be an opportunity for businesses of all sizes to celebrate the festive season together, enjoying the atmosphere of a big party in the unique setting of CSpace. eventbrite.co.uk

CORNWALL CONVERSATIONS

Foot Anstey, Truro

Cornwall Conversations is designed to keep you and your business updated with the latest hot topics. cornwallchamber.co.uk

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BREAKFAST NORWAY INN Norway Way, Perranarworthal

WOMEN IN BUSINESS LUNCH Penventon Hotel, Redruth

PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION Holiday Inn Express, Victoria

YOUR PARTNERSHIPS AND CITIZENS ADVICE CORNWALL CO-HOST AN OPEN LUNCH Victoria Inn, Roche

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EFFECTIVE MENTORING WORKSHOP

Truro College

Workplace mentoring is a key component of staff development. eventbrite.co.uk

CORNWALL CHAMBER BIG BREAKFAST

Falmouth Golf Club

This breakfast will be the annual

Chamber Awards breakfast where it gives out several awards. cornwallchamber.co.uk

BNI NEWQUAY

Aerohub, Newquay

Develop lasting relationships with like-minded business professionals. eventbrite.co.uk

CORNISH PIRATES V DONCASTER KNIGHTS

Mennaye Field, Penzance

Championship rugby action. For a full matchday experience, why not try a hospitality package –the perfect way to entertain clients and colleagues alike. cornish-pirates.com

KING NETWORKING

Victoria Inn, Threemilestone

The Kernow Independent Networking Group gathers every fortnight on Wednesday mornings. Members each give a one-minute presentation on their business and the kinds of referral they would particularly value. king-networking.co.uk

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EARLY BIRD COFFEE CLUB

Solskinn Coffee & Cocktail Haus, Falmouth

Free monthly business networking event. eventbrite.co.uk

JANUARY 2023

CORNISH PIRATES V NOTTINGHAM

Mennaye Field, Penzance

Championship rugby action. cornish-pirates.com

KING NETWORKING

Victoria Inn, Threemilestone

The Kernow Independent Networking Group gathers every fortnight on Wednesday mornings. king-networking.co.uk

CORNWALL CHAMBER BIG BREAKFAST

Budock Vean, Mawnan Smith

Cornwall Chamber’s first breakfast of 2023. cornwallchamber.co.uk

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CORNWALL CHAMBER INNOVATION NETWORK

County Hall, Truro

Cornwall Chamber Innovation Investment Network (CIIN) will be hosting an event in partnership with Mylor Ventures and British Business Bank. cornwallchamber.co.uk

SEA SANCTUARY

ARC Wellbeing Hub, Penryn

Nutritional wellbeing workshop, showing you nutrition that provides you with the nourishment you need to function at your best. seasanctuary.org.uk

“S” IN ESG HWIC, Truro

How to retain your people to sustain your business. whitewillowpartners.com

CORNISH PIRATES V JERSEY REDS

Mennaye Field, Penzance Championship rugby action. cornish-pirates.com

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG?

I wanted to work in the health and beauty industry, possibly as a beauty therapist or a hairdresser – clearly a million miles away from my career path as an accountant.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB?

As an accountant. I started as an apprentice after finishing A Levels, and got the numbers bug. It’s been my ‘thing’ ever since.

WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKETS?

My phone! Isn’t it the tool that has it all? Although, if I could fit my laptop in my pocket, I would. Other than that, my keys, and a few business cards (everything else at Whyfield is digital, but I just love a tangible business card, especially on beautiful card stock).

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX?

Going to the gym, or enjoying a glass of wine with friends. It’s got to be something that will take me away from a screen.

IF YOU COULD BUILD A HOUSE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD WHERE WOULD IT BE?

I can’t imagine living or wanting to live anywhere else other than Cornwall!

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?

There have been SO many. I honestly have ‘best’ moments all the time, which is one of the greatest parts of being a business owner.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE WORST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?

As with best moments, running a business has lots of challenges. For me the ‘worst’ ones are the ones you have no control over or can’t change. However, you have to learn from them and move forward.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT CORNWALL?

It’s hard to pinpoint one thing. It’s not just a place, it’s a way of life.

IF YOU COULD INVITE ANY TWO PEOPLE FOR DINNER, WHO WOULD THEY BE AND WHY WOULD YOU INVITE THEM?

I’d love to pick the brains of Estée Lauder. Her story shows true passion to succeed and she’s achieved so much in her career. Also, Beyoncé. Need I say more?

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION?

I never visit the same place twice, there’s too much of the world to see. I love Italy – each town and city is different from the last. Plus, the food and wine are phenomenal.

WHAT WAS YOUR LUCKIEST BREAK?

Career wise it’s been being able to work with people who have trusted me to do things my way, it’s allowed me to lead a team of incredible mavericks.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME?

Exactly what I’m doing now!

LAURA WHYTE

Managing director and founder of Whyfield