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FEBRUARY 2018
ISSUE 117
INSIDE FEATURES 11 - 30 UNDER 30 CORNWALL’S BRIGHTEST YOUNG BUSINESS TALENT
20 – BUSINESS GROWTH CORNWALL’S FLEDGLING AEROSPACE SECTOR
22 – ART IN THE WORKPLACE
24 – CORNWALL BUSINESS AWARDS ENTRIES OPEN ON CORNWALL’S PREMIER BUSINESS AWARDS
27 – FINANCE & FUNDING RESOLUTIONS FOR A HEALTHY BUSINESS
EVER CONSIDERED HIRING A PIECE OF ART?
REGULARS 4
INCOMING A LONDON BASE?
6
BUSINESS NEWS ’10 OPPORTUNITIES’ FOR CORNWALL
34
ON THE MOVE APPOINTMENTS NEWS
36
FOOD & DRINK BREAK FOR FOOD FESTIVAL
37
TOURISM PROGRESS FOR ST MICHAEL’S PROJECT?
38
EDUCATION EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS TRAINING WINNERS
39
FSB ALL THE LASTEST FROM THE FSB
40
CREATIVE & IT NATIONAL AWARD FOR MICROTEST
41
JUST A THOUGHT GUSEST COLUMNIST KEVIN OLIVER
44
EVENTS DIARY WHAT’S ON
46
CONNECTED WHAT’S GONE
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THE LAST WORD TOM SMITH FROM MILLER COMMERCIAL
PHOTO: ART GALLERY NORTH55 BUSINESS CORNWALL
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FEBRUARY 2018
ISSUE 117
WELCOME 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 Hill caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS PFA Research, Kevin Oliver DESIGN Hutch Agency - hutchagency.co.uk Printed in Cornwall by Deltor BUSINESS CORNWALL is published 10 times a year by: Tonick Business Publishing Pool Innovation Centre Trevenson Road Redruth TR15 3PL Tel: 01209 718688 SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@businesscornwall.co.uk
ON THE COVER James Sculthorp-Wright CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION businesscornwall.co.uk
UNDER 30 CORNWALL'S BRIGHTEST YOUNG BUSINESS TALENT
FINANCE FUNDING
2018 BUSINESS HEALTHCHECK
CORNWALL BUSINESS AWARDS
BE IN IT TO WIN IT 02
02 842001
9 772514
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Keeping Cornwall Connected cornwallairportnewquay.com
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Just as Business Cornwall magazine was going to press, came the news that the Stadium for Cornwall project wants £6 million from Cornwall Council. Nearly six years after councillors originally said ‘no’ to a request for public money, the stadium’s partners – Cornish Pirates, Truro City FC and Truro & Penwith College – have gone back to the Council to request tax payers’ help. Since the Council’s refusal to fund the stadium back in 2012, supporters of the project have been busily looking at ways to fund the scheme privately. They have £6 million of committed funds, but require £6 million more. They had hoped that a neighbouring retail development would provide the balance, but progress has stalled. There will now be a ‘Yes/No’ vote by the Council in April, on whether to support the project with public cash. Another refusal would not only jeopardise the futures of Truro City and Cornish Pirates, but would also prevent Truro and Penwith College from establishing a new business centre, hospitality and catering academy, as well as providing new facilities for the college’s highly successful sporting academy. This could be a last chance to deliver a new sporting, educational, business and cultural hub for the region. Councillors need to support this.
This could be a last chance to deliver
a new sporting, educational, business and cultural hub for the region
FEBRUARY 2018 / ISSUE 117 / £3.95
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EDITOR BUSINESS CORNWALL
Registered under the Data Protection Act All rights reserved No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied, stored in an electronic retrieval system or transmitted without the written permission of the publisher. Stringent efforts have been made by Business Cornwall magazine to ensure accuracy. However, due principally to the fact that data cannot always be verified, it is possible that some errors or omissions may occur. Business Cornwall magazine can not accept responsibility for such errors or omissions. Business Cornwall magazine accepts no responsibility for comments made by interviewees that may offend.
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BUSINESS CORNWALL
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The Business Property Specialists across the south-west and beyond
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INCOMING
THE CONVERSATION
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The big question Ideas are again being touted to establish a fulltime ‘Cornish Embassy’ in London, to showcase Cornwall’s diverse business community. Would it be advantageous and money well spent for Cornwall to have a base in central London? Join the conversation @biz_cornwall
/businesscornwall
businesscornwall.co.uk
ADVERTORIAL
THREE TIPS FOR ANGEL INVESTMENT
Seeking an angel investment is a fantastic way to fund a growing business, but it pays to have everything covered. Typically business angels invest in companies seeking to raise funds by issuing shares up to around £1M
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BUSINESS CORNWALL
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THE CONVERSATION
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SCOTT BENTLEY
PKF Francis Clark
The idea has been around for at least five years now and I think does have merit. I am not swayed by comments about making it easier for Cornish businesses to meet up with customers in London; last time I looked London was not short of meeting space you could hire if needed to pursue an opportunity! However, the idea of something that creates opportunities or assists with closing deals is interesting. Given the growing reputation of Cornish food and drink having something underpinned by a restaurant could be worth pursuing to assist with financial sustainability. Without such a venture I suspect that it would be heavily reliant on public sector subsidy.
AMANDA WILLIAMS
GDPR consultant
I think it’s an excellent idea. We have a number of clients in London and this would be a welcome ‘home from home’. Bring it on.
MEL COLTON DYER
Cornwall Chamber of Commerce We’ve asked the same question and there is no doubt that many Cornish business people would actively use a facility which offered hot desking, meeting rooms and a permanent showcase of some of the fantastic products Cornwall offers. One suggestion is to locate close to Paddington if it goes ahead.
THINK ABOUT THE LONG TERM AND NOT JUST THE MONEY
It is very easy to focus on the short term value and need for the investment. Don’t rush and be prepared to invest in the investment. Your angel investor will be with you throughout the next phase of your growth. Do the deal right even if it takes a bit longer. While it seems like a distraction from running your business, doing a bad deal is worse, especially if you end up having to do another deal to sort out the bad deal.
SARAH TRETHOWAN This has been spoken about for so long I do feel if it was a long term viable proposition if would have happened by now. That said, anything that can promote the opportunities in Cornwall (not just tourism which already promotes itself excellently) is a good thing. (There are) probably cheaper and more effective ways to do that than a physical building. This is my personal opinion.
AREN GRIMSHAW
Minchin & Grimshaw
As a business that took the decision to move part of our operation to London, I think the real benefit doesn’t come from being in a shared location with other Cornish businesses, it comes from being in a shared space with local businesses. You make connections, share skills and widen your network. In Cornwall we would be the first to complain if a London Embassy popped up here competing for work. If we’re to gain work in the capital we need to be prepared to live and add to their local community too. Having located an office in Croydon, at costs lower than any available office space in Cornwall, with 15 minute travel times to central London we have seen our turnover grow by more than 50% in its first year. We have made fantastic connections and tens of thousands of pounds of work back to our Cornish supply chain.
DISCLOSE, DISCLOSE, DISCLOSE
The more your investors know about the business, the better. Most of the time, an angel investor will become a director or have a right to appoint one, which means they will have full access to company information.
CARING ABOUT…SHARING
INCOMING
ANN VANDERMEULEN
FSB Cornwall
Meeting space is always expensive in London and knowing where to go for a meeting could add difficulties for small businesses so a good, cost effective solution would be welcome if available to all at a flat pricing structure or better still, free! FSB have a London Office in SW1 which is handy for Parliament and we play an ambassadorial role for all of our members anyway so not too sure about the need for an ‘embassy’ as such, but a simple centre where businesses could hot desk, have meetings and where Cornwall is the focus for things like tenders, export and cross UK trade may be a good idea. However, before money is spent on that we should check that we are using resources for the majority of Cornish businesses first and that this isn’t just a vanity project.
YVONNE MORRIS
CloudLegal
Possibly an excellent idea if genuinely diverse with an awesome leadership, meaning it doesn’t fall foul of the obvious and the money spent may as well have been sent down the drain as a result! I hate to say it, but it depends on who is involved in it, ie. at the core. If it’s the usual suspects with the same old same old credentials, then it will probably hold us back instead.
Mark Tyler is a senior associate in the corporate team at Stephens Scown LLP. The team is ranked number one for SMEs in the independent guides to the legal sector - Chambers UK and Legal 500. To contact Mark, please call 01872 265100, email solicitors@stephens-scown.co.uk or visit www.stephens-scown.co.uk
Get your shares sorted early. Whether that is getting your HMRC EIS clearance or simply discussing the share structure with your advisers to make sure you can present a clean share structure that works for you and the investor at the earliest possible stage of negotiations.
BUSINESS CORNWALL
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CORNWALL
BUSINESS NEWS
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BRISTOL EXPANSION FOR BREWERY
St Austell Brewery is opening a new 40,000 sq ft storage and distribution depot near Bristol. As work continues on the construction of the company’s multi-million pound Hare Brewery investment at the Bath Ales site in Warmley – due for completion in May – the decision was taken to combine St Austell Brewery’s existing 14,000 sq ft
distribution facility in the area and the Bath Ales logistics teams into a larger and more accessible site in Avonmouth. Head of supply chain, Kevin Andrews, said: “As a company we have a group barrelage target of 170,000 brewer’s barrels by 2020. With double digit growth in the Bristol area and now with a larger distribution centre to work from, we are well on our way to
achieving that and another step closer to securing our position as the regional brewer and supplier of choice for the south west.” The new depot will be managed by Tom Abrahams, who joined St Austell Brewery earlier in 2017 with extensive experience in similar roles at Gregory Distribution and at Heineken.
10 OPPORTUNITIES FOR CORNWALL
The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has set out a ‘21st Century’ pitch to Government and business for future investment. The LEP has published a prospectus focusing on ten key sectors that can play a critical role in growing the economy of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly now and in the future. The document will be used to inform future discussions with ministers and investors as the Government implements its Industrial Strategy. This sets out how it wants to build a Britain ‘fit for the future’, with investment in skills, industries and infrastructure to create better,
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higher paid jobs. Called ’10 Opportunities’, the LEP’s prospectus showcases how technology is helping to drive new industries like space, e-health and marine energy, and can transform existing sectors like agriculture and mining. It makes the case for the region as a test-bed for new ideas and policies, from the creation of a smart grid on the Isles of Scilly, to trialling a new VAT regime for tourism businesses, to being a pathfinder for the rural rollout of 5G mobile technology. It calls for the creation of a Creative Enterprise Zone to capitalise on a sector that is already growing at twice the rate of the UK economy, and for an agri-food ‘sector deal’ that could make the whole of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly a Food Enterprise Zone offering investment and tax breaks to business. LEP chairman, Mark Duddridge, said: “We’re pitching a 21st Century economy to
Government and investors that shows off our strengths and sells opportunity. “We should be the workplace of choice for fast-growing sectors like digital tech and creative industries. We can be a global resource for lithium and rare minerals – crucial to driving the tech and electric car revolution. We can pioneer new ways of generating clean energy from our granite and our seas. We can help feed the world sustainably through new agri-tech and satellite applications. And we can be home to the UK’s first spaceport, offering commercial space flight by 2020. “These are just some of our opportunities and our message to Government and investors is clear: in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly you will find willing partners to drive business growth and transform the UK economy.” There will be an opportunity to comment on the prospectus at a special LEP event at Tregenna Castle on February 27 and again at The Alverton in Truro, on March 14. www.cioslep.com/events
BUSINESS CORNWALL
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BUSINESS NEWS
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NEWS IN BRIEF
TJ INTERNATIONAL MBO
Leading intellectual property attorney firm, Albright IP, has expanded into Cornwall. With a growing client base in Devon and Cornwall, the Cheltenhamheadquartered company has opened a new office at the Pool Innovation Centre, headed up by IP attorney Freddie Noble.
The Padstow-based book manufacturer, TJ International, has completed a management buy-out led by Andy Watts. Watts has 30 years’ experience in the print industry, which includes senior positions at St Ives Roche, CPI Books and The Sherwood Group. TJ International was founded in 1969 and has grown annual sales to over £13.5 million. The business provides solutions for a diverse range of international publishers, specialising in offset, digital and on-demand production.
The Eden Project is flushed with success after being judged the best visitor attraction in the country by the British Toilet Association in the Loo of the Year Awards. As well as winning the national prize in the Visitor Attractions category, Eden also received the Washroom Cleaner of the Year award.
This transaction will ensure ownership remains in management’s hands and provide continuity for TJ International’s customers, employees and suppliers. Andy Watts will become MD, with Andy Vosper remaining as sales director and Angus Clark will move to the role of executive chairman and provide support for the transition of ownership. Watts said: “We are keen to build on the solid foundation that’s been laid and are very excited about the future plans to build on the tremendous success achieved so far.”
Foot Anstey has signed a new twelveyear lease on its office at High Water House, in Truro. Head of Truro office, James Collings, said: “The Truro market continues to play a vital role in our proven business strategy with Foot Anstey developing relationships within the market and nurturing talent from this base.”
Regional finance company SWIG Finance has passed the £10 million milestone for loans given to new businesses around the south west under the Government’s Start Up Loans scheme. The Trurobased organisation has supported 1,245 entrepreneurs throughout the region since the national scheme started in September 2012. The total includes 290 loans in Cornwall worth £2.32 million. “As one of the first delivery partners to join Start Up Loans five years ago, it is hugely rewarding, having reached this landmark, said MD, John Peters.
SWIG FINANCE HAS PASSED THE £10 MILLION MILESTONE FOR LOANS GIVEN TO NEW BUSINESSES
£2.32m
THE TOTAL INCLUDES 290 LOANS IN CORNWALL WORTH £2.32 MILLION
ROTHWELL QUITS LEP POST Sandra Rothwell, the chief executive of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership, has announced that she is to step down at the end of March. Rothwell will also leave her role as service director for economic growth at Cornwall Council, a position she has held jointly with the LEP post since 2016. The LEP has begun a recruitment process for an interim chief executive with a view to making a permanent appointment later in the year. This role will continue to be combined with the service director post at the Council. Explaining the reasons behind her decision, Rothwell said: “After over 15 years in economic development in Cornwall working in partnership between the public and private sectors, including seven with the LEP since its inception, I’ve decided that the time is right to strike out and do something new. “I truly believe we are on the cusp of transformational change in our economy and I have huge confidence that our passionate
business community, combined with the strong partnership we have in place at the LEP and the Council, will take those opportunities forward now and in the future.”
BUSINESS CORNWALL
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CORNWALL
BUSINESS NEWS
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MARKET MONITOR REPORT Cornwall’s commercial property market proved extremely resilient in 2017, according to Alder King in its latest Market Monitor report. Demand for commercial property increased, with industrial demand reaching its highest level in over ten years. However, Alder King reports that actual take-up of space was constrained by the lack of good quality immediately available stock, limited new development and limited availability of sites able to satisfy larger requirements. The ongoing and increasing shortage of well-located quality office and industrial space is a concern, says
associate, Tom Duncan. “Supply levels across the county have been falling for several years now and are becoming increasingly acute,” he said. “Available industrial accommodation dropped by 43% compared to 2016 and now stands at its lowest level for nine years. New stock is urgently required but without grant funding new development has generally been unviable. The good news is that last year we saw rental growth in the office, industrial and leisure sectors which, if this trend continues, bodes well for future new speculative development.”
CROWDFUNDER RAISES £1M Crowdfunder raised £1.1 million from over 1,039 people, in its latest investment round. The platform, which helps people raise money from the crowd “to make their ideas happen”, asked people to invest on Crowdcube, Europe’s leading equity platform, with an ambition to raise £750k. Crowdfunder MD, Phil Geraghty, said:
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“We’re delighted to beat our target and are excited to welcome over 1,000 new shareholders for the first time.” Joining Crowdfunder’s cornerstone shareholders, Creative England, Nesta and Crowdcube, is Broody, a London-based business incubator, which has acquired a 5% stake in the business. As part of the deal, Broody now has a seat on the Crowdfunder board.
sapc.co.uk
FOCUS ON LEADERSHIP The next Growth Hub On the Road Biz Event will focus on Leadership for Growth. The event will feature presentations from Jonathon Jones, MD Trading at Tregothnan, who will reflect on how leadership is required to identify competitive advantage; and Linda Linda Norfolk, managing partner at EPC Wheelchairs, who will share her experiences of change management. The free-to-attend seminar will be held at Newquay’s Headland Hotel on March 14. www.ciosgrowthhub.com/biz
HELIPORT PLANS RESUBMITTED Further information to support the Penzance Heliport planning application has been submitted to Cornwall Council. The amended application shows how the project aims to unlock £31 million of investment in the islands, provide a £9 million boost to west Cornwall, and increase visitor numbers through additional transport capacity and reliability. Enhanced environmental and heritage assessments also provide further detail on information provided in the original application. Cornwall Council will now re-assess the planning application following legal opposition on the original planning consent by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group. Robert Dorrien-Smith, who is leading the project, said: “The legal challenge to the original planning consent, whilst frustrating, has actually allowed us to strengthen our case with new evidence on the importance of this project for West Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. “The additional information we are providing proves the importance of this project to the future growth of the islands, and shows beyond doubt that Penzance is the optimum base for the service.”
ALMOST SHOW TIME There are just a few weeks to go now until the Cornwall Business Show. The event, to be held at the Royal Cornwall Showground on March 15, is expected to attract more than 1,400 attendees and will feature up to 140 exhibitors. The heated venue will also feature the popular Healthy Workplace Zone where you can discover ways to look after yourself and your team, Speed Networking, the Social Media Zone which offers you the chance to get your business noticed live across the web and more. For any last minute exhibiting opportunities, visit the website – cornwallbusinessshow.co.uk.
BUSINESS CORNWALL
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BUSINESS NEWS
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ALL SET FOR EXPOWEST If you have an interest in Cornwall’s vibrant hospitality and catering industry then you won’t want to miss Expowest Cornwall next month. Taking place at the Royal Cornwall Showground in Wadebridge from March 6-8, it will showcase a greater range of local, national and international drinks exhibitors than ever before. Established over 30 years ago, Expowest Cornwall is one of the most important dates on the Cornish business calendar. It enables Cornwall’s busy trade buyers to see, touch and taste the latest products, keep up with the latest trends and innovations, and weigh up a wide variety of competing offerings, all under one roof. Alongside regular well-known exhibitors such as Voyager Coffee, Camel Valley Wine, Keltek Brewery, Cornish Tea, Salcombe Distilling Co and Skinner’s Brewing Company, you’ll meet many first timers like Thatchers Cider, Dynamite Valley Brewing Co, Sweet Potato Spirit Co, Heineken & North Coast Wine Company. In addition to the trade stands, business advice and specialist expertise will be available at the show’s ‘Knowledge Hub’ offers both. The Hub will also be holding seminar sessions on topical issues during the show, including GDPR and marketing ‘Brand Cornwall’. www.expowestcornwall.co.uk
Exhibition stands are selling fast at Cornwall Business Fair; the centrepiece of Cornwall Business Week.
Book your space now!
PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE AND SERVICES TO STARTUPS, SMES AND ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES FOR OVER TWO CENTURIES. Our clients are based all over the West Country and beyond. Our solicitors will provide practical, commercially astute legal advice designed to resolve your legal matter and implement strategies for growth quickly and costeffectively.
01872 241414
18 April 2018 Sir Ben Ainslie Sports Centre, Truro cornwallchamber.co.uk/cornwall-business-fair
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www.nalders.co.uk TRURO - ST AUSTELL - FALMOUTH - HELSTON CAMBORNE - NEWQUAY - PENZANCE Nalders Solicitors is the trade name of Nalders LLP (authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority) a limited liability partnership registered in England & Wales under number OC354499.
24/01/2018 10:34
Providing free support to local business Cornwall New Energy is a unique new initiative that supports small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to develop, promote and install renewable energy products, services and solutions. The project delivery team is led by PRP, and includes BRE National Solar Centre, University of Exeter and UK Community Works. CNE provides free support to start-up businesses and/or businesses that have innovative products or services with a renewable energy or carbon emission reduction focus. Provia is a local start-up business that has already benefitted from the free support provided by CNE. Provia supplies and installs bespoke solar photovoltaic (PV) canopy systems in car parks for electricity generation and electric vehicle charging. The product can be used to reduce imported grid electricity costs in addition to reducing CO2 emissions and promoting sustainable credentials.
Scott James, Director of Provia, said
“Through the Cornwall New Energy project, Provia has been able to advance its routes to market across multiple sectors. The bespoke commercial modelling we have developed with CNE for our integrated solar canopy and EV chargepoint system is now being used both locally and nationally. This will support our company growth plans into 2018 and beyond.”
Are you a start-up business or a business thinking of relocating to Cornwall?
CNE has also identified a pre-production site in the region to assist Provia to demonstrate the solar canopy product and gain installation experience. It is hoped that this will be undertaken early 2018.
If the answer to either of these questions is yes, Cornwall New Energy (CNE) can provide FREE support to you to help bringing your products and services to market.
The CNE project is receiving up to £2,657,433 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.
Does your business have an innovative product/ service with a renewable energy or carbon emission reduction focus?
For further information please contact: Amanda Forman Technical Delivery Manager 07471 953 998 a.forman@prp-co.uk The Health & Wellbeing Innovation Centre, Treliske, Truro TR1 3FF
CORNWALLNEWENERGY.COM Provia’s innovative PV solar canopy
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CORNWALL’S GOT
TALENT Welcome to Cornwall’s 30 under 30, the annual listing and celebration of Cornwall’s brightest young business people
T
he class of 2017 list features a broad cross-section from Cornwall’s business community and displays the great diversity of Cornwall’s pool of commercial talent From young architects and accountants through to cheese makers, digital marketeers and just good old-fashioned entrepreneurs, Cornwall’s future would appear to be in good hands. Judges from Cornwall Chamber, Business Cornwall, Cornwall College and The Hub certainly had a tough time whittling the large number of applications down to a final 30.
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“I love judging the 30 under 30 entries,” enthused Cornwall Chamber chief executive, Kim Conchie. “It is so uplifting to read about dozens of young people striving and thriving in the wonderful, entrepreneurial, innovative part of the world where we are lucky enough to live and work. I was 29 when I co-founded my first business and I remember fondly the energy, enthusiasm and optimism which enables you to make things happen at that age. Power to all of them!” There will be a special celebration event held at Cornwall College’s Pool campus on March 1. For more details on how to attend this, please visit cornwallchamber.co.uk
24/01/2018 09:59
GROWTH
PROGRAMME
KATHERINE GEORGE OH SO SOCIAL Since launching Oh So Social, one of Cornwall’s first social media agencies, in 2014, Katherine George has led the way for digital marketing in Cornwall. After recognising a need for her level of social media knowledge in Cornwall, she has grown Oh So Social from its humble beginnings as a one-woman band working from a spare room to a team of four social media experts, working for clients across the world. She has worked on a number of high-profile initiatives, including The Man Engine project.
WARWICK ROYDEN SKYLIGHT CINEMA
JOANNA GODOLPHIN WARD WILLIAMS ASSOCIATES
ALEX REED RRL
Despite having little experience of cinema when he took over the running of Skylight Mobile Outdoor Cinema two years ago, what 23-year old Warwick Royden did possess was an unshakable belief that he could make the business work. And he has certainly been proved right, growing the company from 50 events to 250 and making it one of the largest outdoor cinema equipment providers in the UK. Last year, Skylight was nominated for Most Innovative Business in Entertainment and Adventure in the UK.
One of Ward Williams Associates shining lights, surveyor Joanna Godolphin has rapidly become a key member of the WWA team and will undoubtedly be instrumental in the future success of the business. Since joining the company, Godolphin has completed her Master’s degree in surveying, receiving a distinction and is working towards professional chartership, with the goal of becoming a member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors by the end of the year. She is currently leading the delivery of a number of significant projects across the county, including the renovation of a large manor house and a new boutique hotel.
An accountant beyond his years. Alex Reed passed his chartered accountancy exams aged just 24 and became one of the youngest chartered tax advisers in the county at 26. Possessing “excellent communication skills”, Reed manages a significant number of diverse clients’ tax affairs on a daily basis, including heavy involvement with advising on complex and specialist tax treatments and reliefs. Said to be a credit to Truro-based accountancy firm RRL, Reed has made a “fantastic start” to his career and is certainly one to watch over the coming years.
AURELIE NOLLET CORNWALL MARINE NETWORK
TOM AND SAM HANSON THE LIQUOR CELLAR/BEER AND BIRD
French national Aurelie Nollet first arrived in Cornwall in 2013, working at the Council as Cornwall’s Finistere cooperation officer. Cornwall Marine Network (CMN) was so impressed by her approach, however, that a year after she had returned to France, it lured her back to the Duchy as senior project executive. And in the 18 months she has been at CMN, Nollet has driven forward a range of new transnational activities; from accompanying marine engineering students in Brittany and organising work placements in French shipyards through to overseeing the training of EU organisations on CMN’s model of skills brokerage and sourcing new business opportunities.
The two ambitious brothers are responsible for running one of St Ives’ oldest businesses, and one of its newest. Johns Wine and Spirit Specialists has been in the family since 1894 and is famed in the area for offering a huge range of quality drinks, many of which are produced locally. The pair recently expanded this online with The Liquor Cellar. And then last year they opened Cornwall’s first gourmet fried chicken restaurant and craft beer bar – Beer and Bird – where Sam is head chef and met with instant success.
TYLER PEDLEY BLUEFRUIT SOFTWARE Since joining Bluefruit in September 2015 as an apprentice, Tyler Pedley has quickly worked his way up in the company to an experienced developer. Outside of work he also runs his own online classes, teaching software development to over 250 students from countries across the world. He also recently created a new product that assists forex (foreign exchange) traders and is currently turning it into an automated trading tool. Pedley is in discussion with a big multi-million pound forex broker from London about buying or licensing it.
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BUSINESS CORNWALL
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ZOE PROSSER EIGHT WIRE
JAMES SCULTHORP WRIGHT ATKINS FERRIE WEALTH MANAGEMENT
When Falmouth agency Eight Wire was looking to appoint a studio manager last April, Zoe Prosser was something of a wild card applicant, possessing little direct experience with no marketing or design background. However, her enthusiastic and passionate manner persuaded Eight Wire to give her the job and what a good decision it has proved, going the extra mile for clients and forming a perfect conduit between them and the studio.
James Sculthorp-Wright, 24, is a true financial high flyer. He graduated in the top 0.1% of undergraduate business students worldwide and progressed to be one of the Atkins Ferrie Wealth Management’s (AFWM) top advisers very quickly after graduation, with prospects to be one of the most highly-qualified financial advisers in the UK. In 2015 he was honoured to be invited to join Beta Gamma Sigma, recognising academic excellence of business students who studied in the world’s best business schools, accredited by the Association of Advanced Collegiate Schools of Business.
CLAIRE SOUTHGATE SOUTHGATE ACCOUNTANCY Claire Southgate founded her business in December 2016 when she decided to start book keeping for a few businesses while on maternity leave. From there it took off and over the past year Southgate has worked hard to cultivate the right kind of atmosphere and culture for her business. Her attention to detail is second to none with clients calling her “a breath of fresh air”, especially when it comes to handling complicated finance issues and helping others to run their business more efficiently.
DAN FINE HIVE BUSINESS Dan Fine comes from a sales and marketing background which led him to start his own telecoms business in 2010. Through this experience, he developed a much broader interest in business as a whole, with a particular focus on leadership and business model innovation. Three years ago he joined the team setting up Hive Business, a professional services company for dentists and within 18 months was promoted to the board of directors. Last year he launched the management consultancy division of Hive which has generated £200k+ of additional revenues and continues to grow rapidly.
RYAN CAME JOHNSON THE CORNISH LAMB CO Four years ago innovative young farmer Ryan Came-Johnson spotted a gap in the local market for Cornish grass-fed lamb, marketing the product based on its flavour and health benefits. Since then the breeding ewe flock has grown from five to 330, with all the lamb born and reared on the farm near Helston. He actively embraces science and technology to maximise the flock’s productivity and profitability. His business, The Cornish Lamb Co, now not only supplies home produced lamb to top local chefs, but has an expanding lamb box by post service to customers across the country.
BUSINESS CORNWALL
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24/01/2018 10:04
JACOB DOWN POYNTON BRADBURY WYNTER COLE
JAMIE VOLLER THE CORNISH TENT CO
“An exceptionally talented” artist, designer and architect from St Ives, Jacob Down studied at the Bartlett School of Architecture in London, before returning to Cornwall to complete his training and qualifying as a RIBA chartered accountant in 2015. He has taken a key role within PBWC Architects, working with other members of the practice in how the business should adopt new technology such as Building information Modelling (BIM) and CGI rendering, tools that are shaping the productivity and quality of the construction industry across the UK. As an artist, Down has explored how these technological tools can be best utilised for creative thinking, which has resulted in a number of installations, exhibitions and articles in international design publications.
Since starting The Cornish Tent Co two years ago, Jamie Voller has grown the event and marquee hire company into a £200k business, with further growth predicted this year. Voller certainly did his research when starting out, visiting the Tipi manufacturer in Sweden where he learnt to sew and make tents. During this visit he also went to the edge of the Arctic Circle where he learned about spruce and other arctic timber which is ideal for tent hardware and manufacturing. To furnish the marquees, Voller’s team also make all their own furniture, upcycled from old scaffolding boards.
CAITIE HALL BUTTERMILK CONFECTIONS Caitie Hall joined Buttermilk at a time when significant investment had been made into brand and product development, but sales opportunities were still being developed. Despite these challenging conditions, she enthusiastically embraced the brand and displayed unerring commitment to the strategic plan. Over the past year Hall has worked closely with existing and new customers to understand their market and support/service needs and has developed a number of good partnerships achieving positive results and good growth.
SAM SHRIMPTON WILD WEST COMMS “A rising star in the digital PR industry”, Sam Shrimpton has an incredible breadth of experience having previously worked for BBC Top Gear, Red Bull Media House and creative agencies in varying roles as a producer, campaign strategist, media buyer and journalist. He obtained a BA Hons degree from Falmouth University in press and editorial photography, learning the art of storytelling in many formats, further receiving the coveted Falmouth University Multimedia Award in his final year. This year, four campaigns he worked on at Wild West Comms have won awards with the PRCA and CIPR.
HAYLEY ROBINS HIVE BUSINESS As an integral part of Hive Business, Hayley Robins manages the accountancy division and achieved her chartered qualifications simultaneously. Since then, she has helped recruit numerous team members and encouraged their career development. As a valued member of the senior management team, Robins was invited to become a board member aged just 25. She encourages all employees to develop their careers at Hive and is keen to train and support all new accountants.
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TASSY SWALLOW SURFHOUSE ST IVES As a professional surfer, 23-year old Tassy Swallow travels the world. However, when at home in St Ives she teaches surfing to the SurfRatz, a group set up to help young girls gain confidence in and out of the water. She has worked hard to convert a derelict old storehouse on The Island, leased from Cornwall Council, combining her own and her family’s fundraising efforts with successful Crowdfunding. She started SurfHouse St Ives as a base for her surf school and a venue for workshops and events related to the sea. Future plans include foraging days, beach photography workshops, beach school classes, mindfulness, meditation workshops and yoga classes.
ZAC JONES BESPOKE HANDLING EQUIPMENT LTD
GRACIE SODZIE GRACIEFULLYMADE CIC
LUCY RAFFERTY TRAC SERVICES
Since joining the family company full time two years ago as business improvement manager, Zac Jones has worked tirelessly upgrading and refining processes bringing the manufacturer to the forefront of its industry. He has overseen the rewriting of the company website, the development of a new marketing plan and taken over production planning and accountability, working towards ISO9001(2015) accreditation. Also proficient in sales, Jones has also been involved with developing the company’s European distributor network.
Gracie Sodzie set up her community interest company (CIC) in 2015 aged 18, having been inspired by her friends’ difficulties as well as her own challenges with mental health. She runs mental health workshops covering topics such as stress, challenging negative thoughts and self-esteem and has set up a social prescribing scheme for students. While Sodzie continues to battle mental illness, she uses these struggles to form a real passion to help others.
While Lucy Rafferty has only been with regulatory affairs company, TRAC Services, for less than two years, she is already making complex and important decisions on strategic projects. Demonstrating “project management skills of someone with many more years’ experience behind them”, Rafferty has worked on a number of multi-national projects with ease and impressed her more experienced colleagues with the knowledge and dexterity she brings to the table.
SHAWN BROWN KIDS INVENT STUFF Shawn Brown is a freelance engineer and technologist and was part of the team which designed and built the Man Engine. Brown, who was named UK Young Engineer of the Year 2010, is also the joint creator of Kids Invent Stuff, a YouTube site which invites invention ideas from 5-11 year olds, which they then build (and film). They have developed a growing online following of young people, with thousands of invention ideas submitted to date and over 200,000 minutes of content watched globally.
SEAN MCNEIL 4C ARCHITECTURE Sean McNeil is MD of Penzance- based 4C Architecture, a manufacturer of roof structures “to save the world”. McNeil has designed a number of building products designed to save time, money, be easier and safer to construct and with the ability to be self-sufficient. He claims it will soon be possible to build a home with enough renewable energy to require no connection to the National Grid; while charging your electric car as well. And all being manufactured in Cornwall.
GIEL SPIERINGS CORNISH GOUDA CO Dairy farming is notoriously tough, there’s not much margin in milk. So when 18-year old Giel Spierings returned home from college one day to see the ‘for sale’ sign outside the family farm, the writing appeared to be on the wall. However, it sparked the innovative young farmer into action by diversifying the farm into cheese production with the Cornish Gouda Co, buying the family farm’s milk at a sustainable price. The ‘for sale’ sign has long disappeared and Cornish Gouda was named Best Hard Cheese at the Great British Cheese Awards 2016.
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THE WISH
LIST
NATASHA PRICE ENGINE HOUSE VFX
ANTOINE RUSSEGGER HIVENTI
While Cornwall is not seen as a traditional base to break into the film industry, it certainly has not hindered Natasha Price’s fledgling career. Her stellar directorial work on The Ship, an animated short produced for Channel 4’s short film strand, Random Acts, was showcased as an ‘official selection’ in numerous British and International Film Festivals, and subsequently won multiple awards. In addition to this, Price also handles marketing and business development for Engine House VFX, where she has helped the business grow by more than 25% through securing contracts with household-name brands, such as Coca-Cola, TfL (Transport for London), Penguin Books, and author Stephen King.
Antoine Russegger has studied and worked all over the world. Following his recent experiences as a student at the University of Falmouth’s Penryn campus, when he struggled to find affordable “decent” food, he identified a gap in the market for good quality, fresh, locally produced, healthy meals delivered to the door. Hiventi was launched in time for freshers’ week 2017. Hiventi has a social enterprise focus to work towards helping students reduce student debt. They are exploring ways of creating a fund that will support those adversely affected by student debt.
HAYLEY STANTON QUIET CONNECTIONS “A good listener, a great communicator and very compassionate towards the people she deals with”. All ideal facets for Hayley Stanton to have as the founder and life coach of social enterprise, Quiet Connections, which is all about growing confidence in people who are shy, socially anxious or feel they are not good enough, so they can live a happier life. She is also nonexecutive director for New Day Knitwear, a mental health social enterprise.
ADAM SARA CURRIE BROWN Adam Sara helped project manage the new extension and refurbishment of the Tate St Ives and is helping to project manage the new refurbishment works to the Hall for Cornwall. He also had a key leadership role with the new rail terminal depot in Penzance. Sara displays commendable dedication and commitment to seeing through the works with some of Cornwall’s most prestigious landmarks and clients.
KATIE SANDOW FIFTEEN CORNWALL Katie Sandow introduced a renewed strategic approach to Fifteen’s marketing. She transformed Fifteen’s marketing team making it more creative, more sales focused and customer-centred. She is credited with a “bold can-do no-nonsense approach” which has made a “massive difference” to the company over the last year. Her maturity and insight are an asset to the management team where she doesn’t shy from hard truths. She has championed the customer relentlessly and brought a long view to marketing planning and rebuilt the marketing team at a challenging time for the business, where she has shown an aptitude for picking and developing talent and has unlocked some real creativity.
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FLY NEWQUAY TO Getting to New York from Cornwall has never been easier, with Aer Lingus flying from Cornwall Airport Newquay. Begin your US adventure without the strain of travelling to London first to catch your flight Your Aer Lingus flight via Dublin means you can clear U.S Customs and Border Protection on route, saving time and hassle as you breeze past the queues on arrival. You can check your International baggage allowance bags straight through to your final destination and missed connection protection also saves any worry – booking a through ticket means the airline has a responsibility to get you there, even in the event of disruption. Other transatlantic options from Cornwall Airport Newquay include Chicago, Boston, Hartford (Connecticut), and Toronto, Canada.
Begin your US adventure without the strain of travelling to London first to catch your flight
www.cornwallairportnewquay.com/newyork
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CASE
STUDY
Breakthrough, the start-up business support programme, is celebrating after helping more than 650 new businesses to start up in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
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MILESTONE
ith £7 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the target is to support 800 start-ups as part of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Growth Programme. Delivered by Oxford Innovation in partnership with Unlocking Potential, Breakthrough has been running since November 2016 and offers a tailor-made, fully-funded package of strategic direction, expertise, workshops, one-to-one coaching and even recruitment support. Councillor Bob Egerton, Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy says it’s a fantastic milestone. “The news that new businesses are making successful starts in Cornwall is excellent,” he says. “It can be a daunting experience but with support and guidance available from European funded projects like Breakthrough, the complicated process can be easier to navigate. I’m delighted the Growth Programme and its investments are having a positive impact on the people and prosperity of Cornwall.” Breakthrough clients and husband and wife Sam and Tim Moore from Ladock, say their dreams became a reality when they successfully launched their business Wild Tipi in January last year. The bespoke tipi and event business has experienced rapid
growth and they are now collaborating with the National Trust, Natural England and the Forestry Commission. They’ve been working with their Breakthrough Coach, Ernie Capbert, since attending a Breakthrough workshop in March last year. “Since we started it’s been an emotional rollercoaster but having Ernie on board has been incredible,” says Tim Moore. “Ernie comes along with so much enthusiasm and motivation and has helped us identify our brand a lot more. Your Breakthrough Coach is someone to bounce ideas off and who has got your back. It’s given us confidence to approach bigger companies. Ernie Capbert who has been working with the couple, says it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. “They both have so much love and passion for not only the experience they offer people but the genuine belief that spending more time outdoors, is better for all of us,” he says. “It’s a simple message and people are really starting to hear it. The work with Natural England, National Trust and the Forestry Commission is only going to spread that message further.” Anyone who has been running their business for less than 12months or anyone with a business idea who wants to take action in 2018, should head to www.breakthroughcornwall.co.uk or call 0845 600 3660 for more information on how to book their place.
BUSINESS CORNWALL
24/01/2018 10:54
6 - 8 M A RCH 2 018, WA DEBRIDGE
Sponsored By
Over 100 stands already booked!
THE TRADE SHOW THAT’S GOT CORNWALL COVERED...
MAKE NEW CONTACTS • MEET SUPPLIERS • GROW YOUR BUSINESS
If you’re involved in hospitality, catering, or food and drink, then this is one show you cannot afford to miss.
To secure your free visitor badge register online or call 01934 733456 Stands are selling fast – to enquire call 01934 733433
Thursday 15th March 2018 | Royal Cornwall Events Centre Media Partners
Supported By
@expowest_uk
For more info cornwallbusinessshow.co.uk
www.expowestcornwall.co.uk This trade only event is organised by Hale Events Limited. www.hale-events.com
Expowest Business Cornwall Q/P ad.indd 1
10/11/2017 16:34
Online Job adverts
Only £49+ vat To book contact morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk
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24/01/2018 09:55
GROWTH
PROGRAMME
CORNWALL
INNOVATION IN SPACE AND AEROSPACE
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GROWTH
he south west is one of the largest and most capable regions in the world in aerospace. Cornwall encompasses an ecosystem with huge potential for space technologies, including future flight and software applications using satellite data. The global space and aerospace sectors are experiencing exciting changes, and growing rapidly, with increased focus from industry and Government. Many of the advances in coming years will require innovative products, services and technologies, and the south west is one of the most capable regions of the UK. The AeroSpace Cornwall programme promotes research, development and innovation (RD&I) across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. It offers technical and commercial support for businesses looking to develop products, services and technologies which could add competitive advantage to the aerospace and space sectors. The programme will support RD&I projects with a team of technology mentors, match funding, a supply
chain competitiveness toolkit and Innovation Vouchers. AeroSpace Cornwall is led by Cornwall Development Company, delivered in partnership with the West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF). It aims to increase the size and capability of the space and aerospace sectors in Cornwall and secure ongoing investment in them. A central platform of the programme is to develop an ‘innovation environment’ for the aerospace and space sectors by encouraging local businesses to collaborate and engage with other business across the UK as well as research institutions. Key areas of focus include advanced engineering in aerospace, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), digital technologies such as embedded software and software applications using satellite communications, earth observation, navigation and meteorology. AeroSpace Cornwall also aims to secure investment from global collaborators and investors as potential end users of the products, services and technology developed as part of the programme. In addition, it will increase the performance and competitiveness
AeroSpace Cornwall is helping Cornish businesses build supply chains by promoting them at events across the UK and overseas
PROGRAMME
of local enterprises, create highly skilled jobs and launch new products into the marketplace. Businesses can benefit from collaborative R&D funding for projects with a typical consortia project receiving an average of £125k (although there may be exceptions to this) and Innovation Vouchers of up to £5k. Other assistance includes a ‘supply chain competitiveness toolkit’ which can lead to SC21 – a nationally recognised change management toolkit. The programme is able to support business relocation to Cornwall, with feasibility studies, travel assistance, and promotional activities. Projects supported by the AeroSpace Cornwall programme will need to be completed by September 2019. AeroSpace Cornwall is helping Cornish businesses build supply chains by promoting them at events across the UK and overseas, such as the Small Satellite Symposium and the Satellite Show. Farnborough International Airshow will be a chance to showcase the innovation at the Cornwall AeroSpace stand in Hall 1, next to our colleagues at Southwest Aerospace. The stand will feature a number of Cornish businesses, as well as the enterprise zones at Cornwall Airport Newquay and Goonhilly. For businesses with RD&I product development that crosses sectors, further funding is available from the Agritech and Marine-i projects. Examples of this are projects using drones to survey marine environments with the aid of satellite communications. In October, Bloodhound SSC ran tests in front of huge crowds at Cornwall Airport Newquay reaching 210 mph in just 8 seconds. The event ran over 3 days and included a schools day where thousands of children saw at first hand STEM skills in action. Innovation is at the heart of inspiring the next generation of engineers and software developers to get involved, and AeroSpace Cornwall intends to continue this promotion. For further information contact Natasha Downing on 01209 615067 or email natasha. downing@cornwalldevelopmentcompany.co.uk
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24/01/2018 10:38
ART
IN THE WORKPLACE
NORTH55
With productivity in the UK lagging behind that of most major EU and international economies, art could be part of the answer to improving the situation by, amongst other things, injecting inspiration and creativity into the workplace
PHOTOS: VERITY WESTCOTT PHOTOGRAPHY
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his month Business Cornwall has been finding out more about a family run art business, NORTH55, which is championing the rewards artwork can give to your business. Inga and Jack Hayes run NORTH55 with Inga’s mother, Ruth and collectively they have more than 40 years’ experience. Jack and Inga moved to Cornwall because of its rugged coastline and general beauty, as well as a nice place to bring up their young children. The inspiration for their artwork comes from nature and the Cornish coast - the aim of the work is to provoke thought, emotion and imagination. The large, high impact, abstract oil paintings can be found in their original Falmouth gallery, overlooking the Harbour, and now in their more contemporary gallery on Lemon Street, Truro. Inga and Jack Hayes strongly believe that abstract art should be the chosen form for the workplace. Inga comments: “Abstract is about imagination and individuality and is particularly good for the workplace because it creates energy, evokes emotion and creates discussion, with each person interpreting the
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artwork uniquely. “Abstract art can also change from day-today determined my factors such as light and mood and therefore continuously stimulates the imagination.” Their artwork has a clear identity and you can certainly tell that the artists are part of the same family with similar roots of inspiration. The result is that you find yourself gazing at the art and your imagination follows in abundance, each person interpreting the work differently. Inga and Jack believe that artwork can have a justified place in the workplace and consequently launched The Art Exchange: It is amazing how artwork can change the vibe of an office, igniting creativity and inspiration, with each piece having a different affect, as well as having a positive impact on the look of your business. A study from the British Council for Offices found that a significant majority of employees believe that featuring art prominently in the workplace boosts overall productivity, while most of those surveyed explicitly agreed that art is “more relevant than ever” in today’s office environment.
NORTH55 has come up with a way of making displaying artwork in the office easier with its Art Exchange. Rather than spending hours individually picking and choosing different pieces to showcase, and then spending hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds purchasing them, their rental service allows art to become more accessible - 50% of the value of the painting is paid over 12 months with the option after that period to either continue paying to own the work; exchange the work and start the rental process again; pay off the remaining balance and own the artwork outright; or simply hand the work back. Each piece or collection brings together styles to carefully evoke certain emotions or themes, while giving your office a distinctive appearance. In addition, NORTH55 offers a Creative Consultancy service and will work with you on finding a piece(s) suitable for your workplace. Inga and Jack will often load their van up and help you try their artwork in situ to make sure you get the right piece in the right place for optimal impact. You can be sure you’ll be looked after.
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IN THE WORKPLACE
ART
5 REASONS FOR HAVING ART IN THE WORKPLACE:
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MAKING A POSITIVE IMPRESSION
A well-placed and piece of art can greatly affect the initial view of your business. It can depict such things as sophistication and thoughtfulness and is likely to have a more lasting impression.
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ENCOURAGING CREATIVITY
Numerous reports and surveys suggest that innovative art installations can lead to greater creativity. Employees are more likely to feel inspired and motivated in an office that demonstrates innovation visually, and art (abstract art in particular) is the easiest way to do that. While there are a number of hypotheses as to why this is the case, most managers agree that it has to do with perceptions of value: art in the workplace suggests that the employer values creativity and this encourages employees to themselves innovate.
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COMMUNICATION
Linked with positive first impressions, one of the most interesting trends in office art is the use of art to communicate company values. For example, art can convey an appreciation for the environment and / or valuing your team.
4
WELLBEING
Art can lower stress whilst enrichening the workplace. Artwork is believed to lead to greater contentedness in the workplace which in turn means the team will operate better.
5
VALUING YOUR TEAM
Improving the work environment shows that you care about the wellbeing and happiness of your staff. It can also help to empower your staff where you seek their input on the interior design of the office.
To put it frankly, art is extremely cool right now. Right now more than ever before, there’s a focus on creating fun, exciting work environments to entice the best and brightest employees. Bare walls seem drab and wretched, while halls flanked with fun and exciting pieces of art make an otherwise unremarkable office come alive with character. This is where it pays dividends to choose unique pieces of art, rather than the sort of mass produced office art you often see which tend to fade into the background quickly, while unique pieces stick in the mind and make the workplace stand out. NORTH55 38 Church Street, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 3EF 61 Lemon Street, Truro, Cornwall TR1 2PN T 01326311118 E north55gallery@gmail.com W www.north55gallery.com/ Twitter @north55gallery Instagram @north55gallery
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THE WISH
LIST
CELEBRATE YOUR The search for the most inspirational, successful and ground-breaking businesses in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has kicked off with the launch of the Cornwall Business Awards 2018 ow in their 13th year, the awards champion businesses that stand out from the crowd and celebrate excellence across all business sectors, spanning everything from tourism to tech. With 14 categories to choose from, they are open to businesses of all shapes and sizes and the winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony on April 19 at St Mellion International Resort with guest speaker Gregg Wallace of MasterChef fame. For the first time the awards are being hosted by the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Growth and Skills Hub, which provides an independent and impartial signposting service to help businesses grow through specialist support and training. As well as giving the awards website a sparkling new look and revamped branding, the new organisers are busy adding to the expert panel of judges and will be working hard to
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ensure businesses from Saltash to St Ives have the opportunity to apply. “We are honoured to have been handed the Cornwall Business Awards baton,” says operations director, Stu Anderson. “They have gone from strength to strength and to now be in their 13th year demonstrates the importance they play in shining the spotlight on Cornwall success stories.” One of last year’s success stories was specialist software company, Headforwards, which was crowned Winner of Winners. Founding director Toby Parkins recalls: “2017 was a game-changing year for us and being recognised in the Cornwall Business Awards played no small part in it. “It felt incredible to take home the trophy but the biggest positive was the morale boost. It gave the whole company a real sense of achievement and that pride fuels business success. I would without doubt recommend other businesses to follow in our footsteps and invest a little time in entering.”
The awards are an exciting highlight of Cornwall Business Week which, in a change from previous years, will take place from April 16-20, a whole month earlier than usual. There are 14 categories to enter, including Best New Business, Excellence in Digital Marketing, Manufacturer of the Year, and Best Family Business. Businesses have until February 16 to get their entries in. For a full list of categories and to enter online, visit www.cornwallbusinessawards.com. The Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Growth Hub and Skills Hub is part funded by the European Structural & Investment Fund and is match funded by Cornwall Council, the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy and the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership. Further information Facebook: @CornwallBusinessAwards Twitter: @cbizawards Website: www.cornwallbusinessawards.co.uk
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CORNWALL BUSINESS
AWARDS
REASONS TO APPLY There is always something to do when you are running your own business so why should you spend your precious time applying for awards, especially when there are no guarantees you will come home with a shiny piece of metal for your office? The benefits are tenfold, says Josh Hoole of the Growth and Skills Hub, organiser of the Cornwall Business Awards: “Awards are a great excuse to shout superlatives about how great your business is but they’re so much more than that. They pack a real punch when it comes to business value and have a surprisingly high return on investment. As well as offering an external perspective of your business they make you stop and think about your achievements, market position and growth plans. “If you win, fantastic, but if you don’t there’s a pretty good chance that your business will be a stronger position for next year!”
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STEP OUTSIDE THE BUBBLE
Awards are a good opportunity to help you think about your company from an external perspective. The questions might spark an idea for something you should
be doing, or planned to do but never get around to. This might just be the spur needed to dust off that business plan and see how you are measuring up.
2
RATE YOURSELF
players who are sponsoring your award category. You can show off your credentials as a potential supplier and make some personal contacts.
5
TALK ABOUT YOURSELF
A good reason to take part in awards is because everyone is at it. Why did your competitors win the title over you? What are they doing differently? Use the information to benchmark your customer offer and processes. Being part of the entry process alone gives you an insight into how leading companies are operating and it allows you to learn from them.
How often does your business talk about itself? Do you struggle to think of a story that the public might be interested in? Even being shortlisted for an award is likely to result in publicity, raise your profile and enable you to tell the wider community what you do and why you do it.
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Ok, so we have talked business benefits now let’s talk about the real reason we all enjoy awards…the chance to let your hair down and celebrate! You get to dress up, have a posh meal, listen to an interesting and funny speaker and then wildly cheer all the businesses winning and you (almost) don’t care if you win or not!
BOOST YOUR CREDIBILITY
Do you put questionable claims to success on your website? Do you really have an innovative product range and who says you’re a great employer? Awards are a chance to add validity to your claims and it’s not bragging if someone else is saying it.
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GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A PLATFORM
Awards are a great way to get your small business in front of big name
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IT IS A BIG PARTY!
So go on, give it a go. You’ve got until February 16 to get your entry in www.cornwallbusinessawards.co.uk
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PLYMOUTH
UNIVERSITY
A LITTLE KNOWLEDGE…
Over the last five years, the University of Plymouth has helped south west businesses access approximately £2 million of investment for Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) TIPS FOR RUNNING A SUCCESSFUL KTP KNOW WHAT YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE
Having a clear idea of the end game is essential. You need to start the process with a key question you want answered. It also needs to be a question that hasn’t been covered before
INVEST TIME IN YOUR KTP ASSOCIATE
T
his UK-wide programme has been helping businesses tap into the wealth of knowledge, skills and technology in universities for the last 40 years. Dave Marshall, specialist KTP advisor for the University of Plymouth, explains: “When a business contacts us about a KTP, it’s generally because they’ve got a problem they can’t solve on their own. The aim of KTPs is to bring universities and local businesses together to deliver a strategically important project, resulting in an innovative new product or process, giving the company a significant return on their investment.” The average KTP costs £75k per year, with SMEs generally contributing approximately £25k. This includes paying a KTP associate, a graduate who works in the business for a set period of time and is jointly recruited and managed by the business and the university. According to Innovate UK, every pound invested in KTP typically yields a six to sevenfold return on investment. Internationally-renowned creator of medical rehabilitation and sports performance products, DM Orthotics, has recently completed its fourth KTP with the University of Plymouth. This is helping the Redruth-based company develop a number of products to support people with a
26
You’ll only get good results if you actively manage your KTP associate. Be prepared to give time to that person and have an open door so they can talk to you range of medical conditions, including a sports sock for runners and gymnasts who have plantar fasciitis. DM Orthotics MD, Martin Matthews, says: “Everything we market is evidence based but as an SME we simply can’t afford to do full-blown research. Without a KTP, it would take us another ten years to get the evidence we need. KTPs have been instrumental in us having that evidence base and have enabled DM Orthotics to punch above its weight.” Saltash firm, Spinnaker, is a world leader in security products for the cash in transit industry and has completed several KTPs with the University of Plymouth. The latest resulted in the firm creating valuable IP for a new bank note scanning system, replacing labourintensive processes that are currently used by banks. Research and design manager, Nick Tripp, says: “Our latest KTP with the University of Plymouth has allowed us to branch out in our product portfolio, giving Spinnaker a new product strand. We now have exclusive IP that we’re licensing internationally. “A KTP allows us to cost effectively research new technology and ideas with support from the University. It also gives us someone dedicated to that one area of research – something we would not be able to do on our own.”
LOOK OUT FOR NEW OPPORTUNITIES
Be clear on what you want to achieve, but don’t be afraid to explore other opportunities as they arise to maximise benefits and deliver beyond the scope of the initial project
PLAY THE LONG GAME
There are some quick benefits to doing a KTP, such as discovering what else is on the market, but research findings can take time to deliver commercial results
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR UNIVERSITY
As the KTP progresses, you can identify other areas of collaboration that will both complement your KTP, and support you over the longer term. The university supports businesses in all sorts of other ways and we are interested in forging ongoing relationships For more information about KTPs visit www.gaininbusiness.com
BUSINESS CORNWALL
Innovation_Feb18.indd 2
24/01/2018 10:43
FINANCE
FUNDING
Resolutions for a
As part of our annual look at the finance and funding picture in Cornwall, PFA Research casts its eye over some of the latest numbers id you make any New Years’ resolutions? If so, you are one of the 21% of the British population to do so. A recent YouGov study showed that the most popular resolutions include losing weight, increasing exercise and saving money. However, your resolutions do not have to be limited to selfimprovement. The new year can also be a good opportunity to set business goals. This article provides a number of key statistics to help you reflect upon your business and consider how well it is performing in comparison to others, both locally and nationally. You might even wish to use these topics as inspiration for your own business focused New Years’ resolutions!
ARE YOUR UK SALES AND ORDERS AS HIGH AS ANTICIPATED?
Overall, Cornish businesses reported strong sales levels for the last quarter of 2017. The Cornwall Chamber Quarterly Economic Survey showed that 52% of local businesses saw an increase in UK sales during the last quarter of 2017. This compares to just 42% of businesses
Finance_Feb18.indd 1
during the same period in 2016. Correspondingly, the number of UK orders has also increased. The survey showed that 42% of businesses experienced an increase in orders during the last quarter of 2017. Just 32% of businesses reported that this was the case during the same period in 2016. It has not been good news for everybody though; 6% of businesses experienced a decrease in UK sales during the last quarter of 2017. However, this is far less than in 2016 when 15% experienced a decrease. Cornish businesses have reported a greater increase in sales than others across the UK. The British Chambers QES for quarter four showed that 23% of manufacturers and 20% of service firms reported increased sales.
this quarter. Furthermore, 4% of businesses actually reported a decrease in exports. This does, however, compare favourably with the same time period in 2016 when only 6% of businesses reported an increase in export sales and a further 6% reported a decrease. This is not necessarily bad news for those seeking to export in 2018. Optimists argue that a weak sterling will boost export sales. Furthermore, the ERDF-funded Export for Growth programme continues to offer support to Cornish businesses seeking to begin or even increase their export activity.
The Bank of England decision to raise interest rates is likely to impact upon credit affordability
ARE YOU PLANNING TO EXPORT IN 2018?
Cornish businesses are less likely to engage in export activity than their counterparts from across the UK. Only 25% of respondents to the Cornwall Chamber QES engaged in export to overseas markets during quarter four of 2017. This means that only 9% of businesses were able to report an increase in export sales during
WHAT ARE YOUR TURNOVER AND PROFITABILITY EXPECTATIONS FOR THE NEXT 12 MONTHS?
The Cornwall Chamber QES for Q4 of 2017 showed that 73% of Cornish businesses expect turnover to increase within the next 12 months. Similarly, 59% expect profitability to increase. This compares favourably to the same time period in 2017 when only 65% of Cornish
24/01/2018 10:23
FINANCE
& FUNDING
businesses expected turnover to increase and just 55% expected profitability to increase. Nationally, the British Chambers of Commerce QES for Q4 showed that 44% of manufacturers and 36% of service firms expect turnover to increase within the next 12 months. This is down from 51% and 40% in Q3. The FSB Small Business Index also painted a relatively gloomy picture with small business confidence falling into negative territory for only the second time in five years and a record number of entrepreneurs seeking an exit. As a result, it is likely that confidence and growth will remain subdued throughout the early part of the new year.
ARE YOU EXPERIENCING PRESSURE TO RAISE PRICES?
If so, you’re not alone! The Cornwall Chamber of Commerce QES showed that 75% of Cornish businesses are experiencing pressure to raise prices, similar to Q3 when 77% of businesses reported that this was the case. The FSB Small Business Index shows that this trend is present across the UK as a whole; 67% of small businesses reported an increase in operating costs over the last 12 months. This compares to 57% during the same period in 2016. Cornish businesses cite a variety of reasons for this pressure to raise prices. Overall, 43% attribute it to an increase in the cost of raw
materials, 20% to a need to pay settlements and 19% to an increase in the cost of finance. As a result, 37% of Cornish businesses surveyed plan to increase their prices in the next quarter.
ARE YOU SEEKING FINANCE? WILL IT BE AFFORDABLE?
The FSB reported that slightly fewer small businesses applied for credit during the last quarter of 2017. Its survey showed that 12% of small businesses made a credit application during this time period, which compares to 13% in Q1 and 14% in Q2. There were far fewer successful applications towards the end of 2017. Only 66% of Q4 applications were successful, which compares to 75% of quarter one applications and 74% of quarter two applications.
The FSB credit affordability index shows that credit affordability has decreased slightly. It stands at -9.1 compared to -7.6 at this time last year. The Bank of England decision to raise interest rates is likely to impact upon credit affordability and also the number of small businesses applying for credit over the next 12 months.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAIN EXTERNAL BUSINESS CONCERNS IN 2018?
The Cornwall Chamber QES for Q4 of 2017 showed that 42% of Cornish businesses are concerned about inflation. In contrast, only 27% expressed this concern in Q3. However, UK inflation has just slipped from a five-year high of 3.1% in November 2017 to 3% in January 2018, which is the first drop in six months. The Bank of England has also predicted that it will
The FSB Small Business Index shows that this trend is present across the UK as a whole; 67% of small businesses reported an increase in operating costs over the last 12 months
FINANCING YOUR BUSINESS There comes a point in the life cycle of all businesses where an injection of funds is required to help the business grow
T DEBT
his could be working capital for the expansion of the existing business, or a capital injection for the launch of new products or development of new facilities. Business finance comes in many forms, but broadly falls in to two categories; debt and equity.
Debt finance usually comes in the form of money loaned to the business from another party. Typically there will be interest charges and a repayment schedule. This increases the cost base of the business and has an impact on cash flow. The key advantage however is that the business ownership does not change.
Finance_Feb18.indd 2
EQUITY
Equity finance involves selling or giving away a share of the business in exchange for finance. Equity typically does not have to be paid back, and dividends are paid rather than interest, but this is at the discretion of the shareholders. The main downside is the element of business value lost on any future sale or disposal. 
WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to financing your business. The needs of the business, your future plans, and the stage in the business growth cycle will all have an impact on which finance options are suitable. Examples of types of debt finance include; bank loan, overdraft, peer to peer loan, bond, asset
finance, invoice discounting, leasing, hire purchase, and mezzanine. Equity could include seed finance, angel investment, crowdfunding, venture capital, private equity, or an initial public offering. There may also be grant opportunities to consider. The various finance instruments listed each have pros and cons, and will require different levels of financial information to be provided in order to secure funding. Bishop Fleming Corporate Finance can help you assess your options, and support you through the process of securing finance for your business. Ewan McClymont, Director Grant Services, emcclymont@bishopfleming.co.uk
24/01/2018 10:24
FINANCE
FUNDING
THE INNOVATION FUND
Innovation can be a cost to your business and Acceleration Through Innovation is available to help with these important changes in the business with the Innovation Fund
W
ithin the programme, the £500k ATI Innovation Fund can assist eligible SMEs with grants of between £2.5k and £10k for both capital and revenue costs in five areas. These areas include; proof of market, proof of concept, prototyping, IP protection, and new product or service generation. The option of larger grants may be available up to a maximum of £25k – this will be the exception. For the ATI team to identify relevant eligibility you must have engaged with our Innovation Advisors to scope your project, help you to comply with the procurement and State Aid rules applicable to the programme and demonstrate sufficient cash resource to fund the entire expense pending re-imbursement. The grant available will represent a maximum of 50% of the total eligible costs.
aims to support business innovation across Cornwall and Isles of Scilly. Led by the University of Plymouth in partnership with Cornwall Innovation, the project drives a culture of innovation, supporting businesses who are looking to adopt innovative processes or who have aspirations to bring a new product or service to the market.
To bring this part of the program to life, we have already agreed to help three businesses in a variety of industry sectors with – • Proof of market research • Bespoke innovative software design leading to new product development, and • Detailed 3-D design work to lead towards production of a working prototype of a ground breaking new product
If you are interested in finding out more, please contact ATI via phone or email: 01209 705 166 / ati@plymouth.ac.uk
Applying for funding can be a daunting task, therefore the ATI advisors will assist you throughout the process. ATI have already allocated grants ranging from £2.5k to just over £24k within a wide variety of businesses sectors Acceleration Through Innovation (ATI) is a three-year £3 million ERDF project which
FINANCING YOUR BUSINESS BOOST YOUR FINANCES
Paul Caunter, Director at Ignition, a leading UK provider of vehicle and asset finance for SMEs based in Truro, explains how refinancing existing assets can help give SMEs a financial boost
A
ny business looking to purchase new or used vehicles or equipment, is likely to consider asset finance as a sensible solution. A typical hire purchase plan provides immediate use of new equipment whilst spreading payment over a number of months, preserving vital working capital. But what many business owners don’t realise is that asset finance can be available for assets they already own. Most SMEs reach a point where they could do with some extra funds, whether to help them expand, diversify, or navigate through a leaner period. Refinancing is a means of selling existing valuable equipment and buying it back slowly over time, whilst retaining use of it throughout.
Finance_Feb18.indd 3
Over the years, we’ve helped many businesses achieve their goals by releasing equity in this in this way. For example, Ross Trevethan runs RZT Ltd in Camborne, providing landscaping, agricultural contracting, groundworks, civil engineering and construction services. Last year, Ross decided it was time to take his business to the next level and focus on expansion and diversification, but he needed some extra funds. He began exploring various business loan options and contacted Ignition for advice. He comments: “When I spoke to Ignition, they suggested I use some of my existing machinery as collateral for a loan. I realised that my business already had substantial assets, which could be used to unlock additional funds to help move
the business forward.” Essentially, Ross was able to sell two tractors and a JCB wheel digger to Ignition for a lump sum, and make regular payments for hire and eventual re-ownership. “It was remarkably simple and easy to arrange. I received the funds within seven days of first contacting Ignition. We’ve been able to purchase additional equipment and have already taken on more contracts as a result,” Ross adds. At Ignition, we value building long-term relationships with our clients and help provide finance without the usual hassle. Call us to find out how we can help you. 01872 272900, www.ignitioncredit. co.uk
24/01/2018 10:24
be at 2.4% by the end of 2018. This is likely to ease the pressure on UK consumers and should ultimately impact positively upon business confidence. Furthermore, 37% of Cornish businesses are concerned about interest rates. This compares to just 13% in Q3. This is likely to be one of the reasons behind the decline in the number of businesses seeking finance towards the end of 2017. Nonetheless, it is likely that the reduction in inflation will ease the pressure on the Bank of England to increase interest rates, which will ease the concerns of those looking to borrow over the next 12 months. Competition was another area of concern for Cornish businesses; 41% of those surveyed expressed concerned about an increase in competition. This compares to just 29% in the previous quarter.
Starting or growing your business?
WHAT NEXT FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
Find out how SWIG Finance could help bring your plans to life. 01872 223 883
info@swigfinance.co.uk
www.swigfinance.co.uk
There are many benefits to checking the financial health of your business and setting objectives or new years’ resolutions. Whether you’re seeking to provide greater direction for your business, gain an advantage over your competitors or even carry out more research to back up your investment plans, PFA Research can help you to get where you need to be. Call PFA Research on (01326) 375705 or visit www.pfa-research.com for more information.
TAX NEEDN’T BE TAXING
RRL tax partner, Steve Maggs, has five ways to make Self Assessment easier KNOW YOUR DEADLINES
The deadline for filing an online submission is January 31, but be aware that paper submissions have a much earlier deadline of October 31. If you can move to online filing it’s much easier to manage and submit.
BE PREPARED
Don’t leave it until the last minute to register, the day before the deadline is too late and will incur delays, which could be costly. Due to the volume of people leaving things until the last day you may find the online system jammed, which could result in a late submission if yours is last in the queue. Our advice would be to schedule a day in your diary a few weeks before the deadline to complete your submission, giving you plenty of time to review and make changes if necessary.
Finance_Feb18.indd 4
DON’T PANIC
Although HMRC information can be a little confusing, always read and respond to any correspondence as it might contain important information. If you’re going to miss deadlines with your return or payments, let them know as soon as possible, as delays could result in costly penalties.
BE THOROUGH
Ensure that everything declared on the tax return is correct to the best of your knowledge – inaccuracies could lead to an HMRC enquiry which can prove costly. Make sure to claim for allowable expenditure and make all relevant claims. Self Assessment should include more than just details of your income: rented property expenses, business mileage etc. may be tax deductible. Make sure all of your claims are eligible and if in doubt, check!
GET HELP
If you’re not sure about filing for Self Assessment then hire a professional. Consider using a firm of Chartered Tax Advisers to prepare and submit your tax return on your behalf. The cost of hiring one can often be covered by the tax saving opportunities they identify. Save your time and get peace of mind that all bases have been covered. RRL, 01872 276116, rrlcornwall.co.uk
24/01/2018 10:26
FINANCE
FUNDING
DON’T JUST BANK ON IT
Preparation is the key to securing funding, says PKF Francis Clark, corporate finance partner, Paul Crocker s I hope all readers of Business Cornwall are aware, my colleagues at PKF Francis Clark host an annual event, Finance in Cornwall, which showcases the range of funding, and business support, potentially available to businesses in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly. The focus of the event and the factsheet that has spawned from it, is on non-bank finance or ‘alternative’ finance as it is often referred to.
BANKS REMAIN THE MAIN SOURCE OF FINANCE TO SMEs IN THE UK
I feel it is worth reiterating that banks remain the main provider of finance to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and that there are arguably a number of good reasons for this, including: • Extensive networks • Wide range of debt products (type and duration of lend etc) • Relationship managers • Keen pricing • Access to UK Government support initiatives eg, Small Firms Loan Guarantee Scheme I appreciate that some of the above are not unique to the banking sector and some are not universal but I am sure they are factors that led to SME borrowing facilities at the end of Q3 2017 standing at £108.7 billion, of which structured term loans were £83.5 billion, overdrafts were £9.1 billion and facilities available but undrawn were £16.1 billion.
have more resource to devote to making an application than a smaller business. However, based on my experiences I would say that there are some easy wins for the smaller business to improve success rates.
Interestingly, the UK Finance report Bank Support for SMEs – Q3 2017 notes that: “Statistics released today do reflect a more subdued demand for bank finance, with application volumes five per cent lower than a year ago, as many SMEs have elected to selffund.” For those businesses who did make an application approval rates in the quarter were: • Smaller businesses – Loans 79%, Overdrafts 75% • Medium businesses – Loans 86%, Overdrafts 96% Arguably, the difference in approval rates in part reflects the fact that a medium business may
Finance_Feb18.indd 5
www.pkf-francisclark.co.uk
A GOOD WELL PACKAGED BUSINESS PROPOSAL SHOULD RECEIVE FUNDING
Banks are in the business of lending money and so they should inherently be well disposed to a proposal looking to borrow. Their basic criteria for a bank lending decision are: • Can the business repay the borrowing? • Can I adequately protect against the risk of default with interest rate pricing and available security? So a ‘good business proposal’ from a bank’s perspective is one where the business generates sufficient cash to repay the borrowing; with headroom. Now, whilst you may be convinced of your businesses ability to do this, you need to convey this to the bank in a structured format, hence the reference to ‘well packaged’. The areas that you need to cover off in your application are: • • • • • •
APPLICATION VOLUMES AND APPROVAL RATES
alternative funding sources available and the ‘best fit’ of funder for our clients’ funding requirements.
• •
Purpose of funding Proof of market / route to market Team – ability to deliver Acknowledgement of risks and how these will be mitigated Credibility – including the ‘catalyst’ for any step change Compliance/ Housekeeping – including management accounts Projections – preferably integrated profit and loss, balance sheet and cash flow forecasts Other funding considered? – including grants
The above can be packaged together in a business plan which does not have to be a weighty tome but should give more than lip service to the items above and should be internally consistent e.g., if you have said that you need to spend £X on marketing as part of the route to market then £X should be included in the financial projections. The above are areas where we can and do assist clients in pulling together the required information into a coherent package. We look forward to doing more of this work in 2018; as well as continuing to advise clients on the
24/01/2018 10:26
FINANCE
FUNDING
RIGHT ON THE MONEY Whether you’re starting a new business or looking to expand an existing venture, getting to grips with your finances is crucial to business success utset Cornwall, the region’s leading business start-up expert, has helped hundreds of people start and grow their own businesses through their programme of fully funded start-up support. Now entering its tenth year, Outset’s award-winning programme offers a detailed package of financial advice, guidance and practical support to business owners to help make sure they avoid the biggest pitfall small businesses face. “The main reason new businesses fail is because the numbers simply don’t add up,” shares Outset business advisor, Ian Williams. “We work with prospective start-ups to help them get the basics right, and support growing businesses as they seek to secure finance to expand.” Ian, who has worked with the Outset programme since it began in 2009, is a qualified mortgage broker with many years’ experience of providing independent financial advice. His financial expertise is invaluable in helping businesses get to grips with the essentials of setting up and running their businesses, from developing a business plan and producing financial forecasts to the practicalities of registering a business with HM Revenue and Customs. “A lot of businesses feel very daunted that they’re out on their own,” says Ian, who regularly delivers tailored workshops on business planning and sources of finance. “Outset supports people on their business journey, guiding them step by step as they
Finance_Feb18.indd 6
develop their own business businesses trading less than idea, helping them blossom 2 years, start-up loans offer and grow.” One of the first people unable to secure areas of support Outset offers finance elsewhere a personal is to encourage anyone thinking loan of between £500 and of starting their own business £25k subject to meeting to create a personal survival certain eligibility criteria. budget. “At the end of the day,” A relatively new source of says Ian, “people need to know financial help available from that their business can provide Outset is the Micro Grant them with enough money to Catalyst Fund. The aim of the IAN WILLIAMS, BUSINESS ADVISOR survive.” fund is to help clients who Working out your business may be struggling to start overheads and cash flow a business due to financial forecast are also vital, and reasons, and who may have each of these financial considerations will then found it difficult to source funds from other be integrated into creating a business plan that routes. forms the bedrock for moving the business Awards from the fund are discretionary forward. and don’t need to be repaid. Grants awarded Outset also helps clients look at the different will be up to a maximum of £1k for qualifying types of funding available so that they can businesses. choose the right source of finance for their So, if you’re thinking of starting or expanding particular business. a business and would like tailored advice on “From personal loans, overdrafts and secured your funding options, get in touch with the loans to asking family and friends for financial business start-up experts at Outset Cornwall help,” we look at the many sources of finance and put your finances in order. and funding available,” explains Ian. Outset Cornwall, which has been funded As part of the award-winning start-up by the European Regional Development Fund, support provided by Outset, Outset Finance is DCH and the Outset Foundation provides tailoran official delivery partner of the Start Up Loans made fully funded business start-up support, company, which provides loans and mentoring helping individuals to further explore their to entrepreneurs. business idea through its informal information Available for new business start-ups and sessions and workshops.
The main reason new businesses fail is because the numbers simply don’t add up
24/01/2018 10:27
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24/01/2018 10:28
PEOPLE
ON THE MOVE
SPONSORED BY www.sapiencehr.co.uk
NEWS IN BRIEF Peter Child has been appointed chairman of Cornwall Marine Network, succeeding Michael Brougham, who after being director at CMN for 15 years has retired. Child, a former MD at A&P Falmouth, runs a successful consultancy business in marine renewables. He is also currently CEO for Cornish Pirates.
BREWERY BRINGS IN HOLDEN St Austell Brewery has appointed Andrew Holden as its new procurement director. Holden is already well-known in local circles after spending the last ten years in a similar role at the Eden Project. Brewery CEO, James Staughton, said: “It’s a proven fact that you can’t grow a company year on year without it creating stresses on supply lines and systems
that were designed for the way we were. As we look at introducing new resource procurement and management systems into the brewery, it is the perfect time for us to bring in someone with Andrew’s experience, both locally and on a wider scale, to help us manage our relationships with suppliers and create the best environment for us to do business with them.”
FELTS JOINS 20/20 20/20 Projects has appointed Sam Felts to a new operations manager role at its Falmouth-based studio and workshop. Felts joins from Seamless Interiors in Hampshire and brings a wealth of experience in project management within the events, exhibitions and hospitality industries.
MD Jaimie Sibert said: “Finding a suitable candidate for the role has been a challenge, considering the varied scope of work that we undertake, but Sam is a perfect fit.” 20/20 Projects is a specialist signage, wayfinding, visitor experience, and interior design and build business.
CROSS TICKS THE BOX Giles Cross has been named new CEO at Launceston-based lending platform, Folk2Folk. Giles Cross, who joined the company last June as chief marketing officer, replaces Jane Dumeresque, who stepped down from the CEO post in September. Chairman Tim Sawyer said: “Giles has demonstrated dynamic leadership qualities since joining Folk2Folk. His clear passion and understanding of our purpose and what we seek to achieve combined with his vision, skillset and clear ability to execute, make him the ideal person to lead us through the next stage of our growth.”
34
Miller Commercial has appointed a Stephen Peckham to its property management team. Peckham has an extensive career in facilities management, most recently as FM/ estates manager for BBA PLC, Signature Flight Support - a Luton Airport- based firm servicing high end/ VIP private jet arrivals and departures.
Andrew Sandiford has been appointed managing partner at accountancy firm, Bishop Fleming, replacing Matthew Lee, who had held the position since 2001.
Local law firm Hine Downing has welcomed three new recruits to further strengthen its management and conveyancing teams. Chartered accountant David Quinn has taken over the operational running of the Falmouth firm as practice manager, while solicitor Karen Wright adds her wealth of experience to Hine Downing’s residential department. Latest arrival, solicitor Jenna Roe, will be working across the firm’s commercial and residential teams.
Parnalls has strengthened its litigation team with the appointment of commercial and civil law solicitor Alexis Hager.
Holly King has joined Stephens Scown’s real estate team from Charles French & Co, where she was head of residential new build.
BUSINESS CORNWALL
OnTheMove_Feb18.indd 2
24/01/2018 10:49
EVENTS
Leadership for Growth Free networking breakfast with presentations from growth businesses, Tregothnan and EPC Wheelchairs. 8-10am | Wednesday 14 March The Headland Hotel, Newquay Bookings: www.ciosgrowthhub.com/biz Tue 13 - Sat 17 February 01872 262466 hallforcornwall.co.uk
KODIAQ
KAROQ
from
from
£22,625
£20,875 THE ŠKODA KODIAQ AND THE ALL-NEW ŠKODA KAROQ 5-star ratings without 5-star prices DRIVEN BY SOMETHING DIFFERENT
Carrs ŠKODA Indian Queens Lodge Way, Indian Queens, Cornwall TR9 6TF 01726 213050 www.helstongarages.co.uk/skoda
Truscotts ŠKODA 93 Meneage Street, Helston TR13 8RE 01326 573001 www.truscottsskoda.co.uk
MODELS SHOWN ARE ŠKODA KODIAQ EDITION 1.4 TSI 150 PS DSG, £31,260 OTR AND ŠKODA KAROQ EDITION 1.5 TSI 150 PS, £27,110 OTR. RATINGS RECEIVED IN 2017. PRICING CLAIM BASED ON COMPETITOR AVERAGE. Official fuel consumption for the ŠKODA KODIAQ range in mpg (litres/100km): Urban 31.0 (9.1) to 48.7 (5.8); Extra Urban 44.1 (6.4) to 61.4 (4.6); Combined 38.2 (7.4) to 56.5 (5.0). CO2 emissions for the ŠKODA KODIAQ range are 170 to 131 g/km. Official fuel consumption for the ŠKODA KAROQ range in mpg (litres/100km): Urban 41.5 (6.8) to 61.4 (4.6); Extra Urban 56.5 (5.0) to 65.7 (4.3); Combined 50.4 (5.6) to 64.2 (4.4). CO2 emissions for the ŠKODA KAROQ range are 138 to 117 g/km. Standard EU Test figures are for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.
AD_PAGES_Feb18.indd 5
24/01/2018 09:56
TOURISM
NEWS
SPONSORED BY
www.visitcornwall.com
CORNWALL WINS FOR NINTH YEAR
LINER SET TO SAIL The Liner development at St Michaels Hotel and Spa opposite Gyllyngvase Beach on the former site of The Falmouth Beach hotel is finally set to sail. The original Liner scheme was granted full planning consent in December 2014 for 56 apartments, together with a restaurant bar and village shop. The scheme received widespread support, and now a new planning application has been submitted with some small amends to the original Liner plans, reducing the total number of apartments down to 53. St Michaels says it has been looking at ways to ensure the highest quality development is built, accommodate resident concerns and move the frontage back on the east, as well as conclude a partnership with developer, which
has now been revealed to be the Acorn Property Group. “I am now delighted to announce that Acorn Property Group is our chosen developer for this project and we have mutually decided that The Liner is the scheme which will be developed,” commented St Michael’s proprietor, Nigel Carpenter. “We are very excited about developing this iconic building with such a prestigious and experienced Cornish developer at one of the very best sites in Cornwall. The Liner will be an iconic and visionary building which will add a new level of quality to the seafront.” Work is expected to start on site on the new apartments in the late summer with construction anticipated to take 18-24 months.
2018
Cornwall was voted the UK’s Best Holiday Destination for an incredible ninth year in a row at the British Travel Awards. Announced at a ceremony in London, the coveted award comes following a nomination by Visit Cornwall and a ‘show your love’ campaign, which was spearheaded by the tourism body to encourage both locals and visitors to vote. Beating rival category contenders; Cumbria/ Lake District, Norfolk, Northumberland and Pembrokeshire, Visit Cornwall chief, Malcolm Bell, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of these achievements. Cornwall has a bulging trophy cabinet but we don’t take any title for granted – they represent an incredible amount of hard work from across the industry and each and every one is well deserved.” In addition to winning the top holiday destination award, the Lost Gardens of Heligan won the Best UK Leisure Attraction, and Bude won silver for the Best UK Coastal Resort.
FOUR STARS FOR CHINA FLEET The China Fleet Country Club in Saltash has been awarded four-star rating by the AA. China Fleet County Club is a hotel, golf and health club set in 180 acres of countryside on the banks of the River Tamar in Saltash. MD, Dean Bennett, said: “We are very proud and delighted to have been awarded 4 stars from the AA – it is a fantastic achievement for China Fleet and the team here.” The club has recently undergone a series of refreshments including refurbished apartments and a new £500k aqua spa.
ADVERTORIAL
The year of international tourism
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ith its history of smuggling, Cornwall has always been thought of as somewhere with more import than export. However, a delve into the history books suggests that the vessels famous for frequenting the southern coasts were rife with export goods, shipping English lace to France.
Surrounded by the sea, Cornwall continues its penchant for exporting, as 144 new businesses from sectors as diverse as tourism to tech have joined the Export for Growth programme. When we use the word ‘export’ people don’t immediately think of tourism and this year the Export for Growth programme seeks to change that perception. Delivered in Cornwall by the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, Business West and the Department for International Trade, the programme
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AND DRINK
GIN OF THE MONTH A Cornish artisan gin producer was named as Gin of the Month by Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen in London recently. Trevethan Distillery was awarded the accolade by the celebrity chef’s restaurant for its signature, handcrafted Cornish gin recipe. Director, Robert Cuffe, said: “We
were absolutely thrilled to have been named Gin of the Month for December. As a small, craft business from Saltash that still creates each batch as it was first crafted by my grandfather back in the 1920s, it’s a testament to the history and passion behind our gin.”
NEW CHOCOLATE BUSINESS LAUNCHES A Cornish raw chocolate entrepreneur is hoping to indulge the senses nationwide after launching a new range of artisan, organic and vegan raw chocolates. Created by Penzance-based, trained Cacaoista Alison Fleming – Mococu – has launched a range of chocolates and sensual gifts made from ethically sourced, cold pressed, raw organic Peruvian Criollo cacao, to retain the highest amount of superfood qualities. As part of her own journey to launch Mococu, Fleming travelled to central America attending a Mayan Cacao ceremony and chocolate workshops in the Yucatan region of Mexico. She said: “It’s already been an amazing journey to launch Mococu – and one I never even considered would happen when I first discovered Cacao in 2015 and started baking
has recently secured 15 Cornish creative businesses a bursary, which was used to provide the excellent opportunity to exhibit at the prestigious trade event Top Drawer, for lifestyle brands at London’s Olympia. Cornwall Chamber of Commerce is putting together a bid to win more funding for Cornwall’s small businesses, with a focus on increasing international visitors to Cornwall.
with it. It’s such a beautiful, natural ingredient and creates the basis for our range of chocolates and indulgent chocolate gifts.”
The UK tourist board predicts this year will see a rise in international tourism, given the weakened pound
The UK tourist board predicts this year will see a rise in international tourism, given the weakened pound. This month, small businesses from the tourism sector will be invited to attend local, social media workshops to implement strategy at once and start taking bookings from overseas. Previous workshops of its kind have given B&Bs, holiday lets and excursion companies training in how to
FOOD
FOOD FESTIVAL TAKING A BREAK There will be no Great Cornish Food Festival this year, organisers have revealed. Despite enjoying considerable success since launching on Truro’s Lemon Quay in 2004 and regularly drawing around 40,000 visitors to the city, the event will be taking a break for the year. MD of Cornwall Food & Drink, Ruth Huxley, said: “This move has taken a lot of soul-searching. We know how wellloved the Great Cornish Food Festival is by those who visit and those who take part and we must, first and foremost, acknowledge the tremendous following it has developed and thank everyone involved for helping to make it what it has become. However, we also know that people are keen to see it evolve even further and, with food events becoming more and more prolific, we want the Great Cornish Food Festival to continue to be something really special in the foodlovers’ calendar. That means taking a bit of time to review everything, making sure we are adapting to changing tastes and habits and ensuring that it will stand the test of time long into the future. The downside is that we just can’t do this alongside putting on the event this year.”
maximise paid advertising – a workshop that would usually cost £300 per business. To find out more about Export for Growth, contact Laura Barnes at Cornwall Chamber of Commerce. e: laura@cornwallchamber.co.uk t: 01209240403
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EDUCATION
& TRAINING
SPONSORED BY
www.truro-penwith.ac.uk
SCHOOL’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS Truro School has announced plans for a new cookery school. The school will join Leiths School of Food and Wine’s Academy programme and, in doing so, will become the only Leiths Academy School in Devon and Cornwall. In addition to providing food technology as a co-curricular activity throughout the year groups, students in the lower sixth will be able to enrol on the Leiths Introductory Certificate in Food and Wine, a professionally recognised qualification. Headmaster Andrew Gordon-Brown said: “It is hard to overstate just how positive a move this is for Truro School. Food has a very high profile in Cornwall and all pupils need to have basic skills in food preparation and nutrition. The opening of the Truro School Cookery School is a high quality response to ongoing feedback from parents and pupils and will have enormous benefit for our pupils, our parents and the local community.”
ABOVE: MARIA TAYLOR, NEWLYAPPOINTED HEAD OF COOKERY, ALONGSIDE ANDREW GORDON-BROWN
THREE ON BOARD The Cornwall College Group (TCCG) has welcomed three new members to its board, bringing in expertise from PricewaterhouseCoopers, Imerys and Cormac. Group chief executive and principal, Raoul Humphreys, said he was delighted with the new appointments and was “looking forward to their contributions to a successful future”. Tracey Hooper is former company
secretary of the Cormac Group, while Patrick Newberry is a chartered accountant by profession and spent 25 years as consulting partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers until his retirement in 2013. Also boasting a background in accountancy, Geoff Warring recently retired from Imerys where he was financial controller of the calcined kaolin business based at St Dennis.
TRURO COLLEGE HAS THE EDGE Truro and Penwith College has appointed of two new governors to its board. Lucy Edge will be chair designate, to succeed the present chair, Ellen Winser MBE, when she steps down in the summer of 2019, having served in that role since 2004. Edge, a physicist and engineer, set up the Avanti Communications Spacecraft Operations Centre, which operates a fleet of satellites providing global communications, and has managed the launch of rockets bearing satellites, now controlled from Cornwall. She is also a non-executive director at The Eden Project as well as the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership. John Green, meanwhile, is a retired Devon and Cornwall police superintendent, who spent most of his service with the force in Cornwall.
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ABOVE: LUCY EDGE
EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS TRAINING Fugro Geoservices was a double winner at last month’s Excellence in Business Training Awards. More than 160 business people from across the region attended the awards, hosted by CCB Training (Cornwall College Business) at the Eden Project. Fugro Geoservices’ George Autie accepted the Skills Apprentices of the Year (19+years) and the Individual Champion to Staff Development, which went to Danny Worall. Parnell Engineering won the Outstanding Commitment to Training Small Business, while Plymouth-based Wolf Minerals took the Outstanding Commitment to Training Medium Business. Ocean Housing took the accolade in the Large Business category. Raoul Humphreys, CEO of The Cornwall College Group, said: “The standard of nominations this year was exceptional. The winners deserve particular praise for being recognised as the best in their category. It’s been a wonderful night of entertainment and celebrations and I’ve been humbled to be part of it.” Other winners on the night included P Chapman Construction which took Outstanding Commitment to Apprenticeships Small Business, while Pendennis took the same award in the Medium/ Large category. Kyra Varney of the Talland Bay Hotel was named Young Apprentice of the Year (16-18), while Alexandra Dunn of Shepherds Chartered Tax Advisers & Accountants took the Professional Apprentice (19+) category. The Individual Achievement award was given to Catriona Wilson of Positive Intent Therapies at The Powder Room.
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NEWS
SPONSORED BY
#FSBCONNECT
www.fsb.org.uk
TRESANTON HOSTS FSB WOMEN The FSB Women Cornwall Conference takes place this month (Feb 27) at The Hotel Tresanton in St Mawes. The day will start with a morning of inspiration from incredible business women such as FSB’s Helen Walbey who leads on FSB Diversity while running her motorcycle breakers yard business. Jill Stein OBE of Padstow’s famous Seafood Restaurant and Amanda Winwood of Made for Life Organics will then talk about how they got to do what they do now and how they also started to work together. After a special networking lunch, delegates will be able to attend two workshops. ‘The one minute elevator pitch and how to get noticed at networking events’ will be presented by Jess
Ratty, communications director for Sir Tim Smit; while Michele Poynter, founder of the award-winner lingerie retailer Mish, will discuss ‘social media, the reality of making it work in your business’. Bini Ludlow, another of FSB Women Ambassador and owner of her Radstockbased cookery school business, Sweet Cumin, will round off the day. Tickets are limited and spaces are booking up quickly so don’t miss out on an opportunity to attend. More information about the event and tickets can be booked on by searching Eventbrite. Any questions email Vanessa.gale@fsb.org.uk
ON THE SHORTLIST The shortlist for the South West FSB ‘Celebrating Small Business Awards 2018’ has been announced and a trio of Cornish firms have been nominated for a title. The south west area finals of the national FSB contest will be held on February 20 in Taunton and among the nominees in the 12 categories are Cornish firms Made for Life Organics, Any
Old Lights and Ultramed. Winners will progress through to the UK national FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards final in London in May. Edward Chapman, who is the FSB Area Lead for Cornwall, said: “The sheer scale and diversity of the entrants who have taken part in our awards is a real testimony to the vibrancy of the south west small business community.”
FSB CONNECT NETWORKING FSB Connect Networking – open to all All events can be found on Eventbrite for easy online booking £10 – includes breakfast or lunch & free new opportunities! 8 FEB – Protect Your Idea! With our IP Specialist Speaker 11:00-1:00pm at The Barge, Bude 8 MAR – Sustainability Tips to Save Your Business Money 8:00-10:00am at Royal Cornwall Showground (part of expowestcornwall.co.uk/fsbbusiness-breakfast)
FINTECH PLATFORM TO FUND GROWTH A new FinTech platform from FSB launched in January, aiming to help the UK’s small business and self-employed communities amid latest findings that confidence within the sector has fallen. Access to finance is crucial to the small business sector which accounts for an annual turnover of £1.9 trillion a year – 51% of all private sector turnover in the UK. The FSB Funding Platform, developed by Finpoint, uses intelligent matching technology to match applicants with finance providers. A pilot of the platform for FSB
members in three UK regions shows that the average amount of finance a small business applies for from an alternative finance provider is £39k – half the amount sought from banks - ‘traditional finance’. FSB’s commercial and operations director, Dave Stallon, said: “We’re so pleased to be able to offer this exciting platform to our member base. Although it’s harnessing the latest innovations in tech, it offers a very simple way to access finance, as well as access to human financial advisers.”
Our Next MP Round Table Meetings: Free to attend – raise your issues face to face with your MP 2 MAR – Scott Mann - 1.30 - 3.00pm – Launceston Town Hall 9 MAR – Sarah Newton - 1.00 – 2.30pm – Truro Business Space 16MAR – Steve Double - 11.00 – 12.30pm – Constituency Office 23MAR –Sheryll Murray – 12.00 – 2.00pm – Lord Eliot, Liskeard HOT TICKET!: 27 FEB – FSB Women Cornwall Conference (see article) All day – Hotel Tresanton, St Mawes £25 per person (See Eventbrite for more details & to book online)
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CREATIVE
AND DIGITAL
SPONSORED BY
www.digitalpeninsula.org
NATIONAL AWARD FOR MICROTEST Microtest was named ‘IT Provider of the Year’ at the General Practice Awards 2017 in London just before Christmas. With offices in Bodmin and Plymouth, Microtest has been developing clinical software systems for GP practices for over 30 years and has grown to become one of the leading suppliers to the NHS. MD, Chris Netherton, said: “We feel really honoured to receive this award. Microtest is a family-owned business and we pride ourselves on delivering outstanding personal service to all our customers. This award is a wonderful tribute to the hard work, commitment and dedication of all our amazing team.”
NCI DIRECTOR ON THE A LIST
NCI Technologies’ education director, Andy Trish, has been listed as one of the most important movers and shakers in the UK IT channel. Profiles of the industry leaders within the 2018 A-list are published in the online and printed editions of the Computer Reseller News publication, which is now in its 13th year. According to CRN, senior directors were asked a mix of serious and light-hearted questions about themselves including, if you could invite three famous people to dinner who would they be? Trish replied that he would like to especially invite Charles Babbage, Ada Lovelace and Alan Turing.
SHIPP SETS SAIL ON SOLO MISSION
Rodda’s marketing manager of nine years is branching out on her own. Belinda Shipp, who was the first marketer employed by Rodda’s and responsible for the company rebrand in 2011, has launched the Cornish Marketing Consultancy. She said: “For nine years I loved my role of marketing manager at Rodda’s. It is a family business with fantastic values, some wonderful people that I truly admire, and a great product range. However, Cornwall is full of inspirational and passionate businesses and I was driven by a desire to work with as many of these as possible. It was this motivation that led me to set up the Cornish Marketing Consultancy.” Shipp will work for Rodda’s on a part-time consultancy basis until a successor is in place.
ABG STANDS TO ATTENTION As part of ongoing work with the National Army Museum, ABG has completed the design of its new patrons’ brochure. The brochure is designed to grow the museum’s patron membership, which helps enhance and protect its collections, improve facilities and develop its public learning programmes. The Army Museum opened in May 2017 and ABG Design has designed a host of communications materials and signage design for this London venue.
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AGENCY REBRAND Bodmin-based web development company MyMediaLab has rebranded as Foundry. The move follows a period of sustained growth for the company since launching in June 2005, and an expansion of its skills set. Director Ashley Hayward said: “With this year’s rebrand and our growing team, all of us at Foundry aim to strengthen our position as a creative agency with enterprise level web development. Our updated brand and direction will help Foundry bring additional large scale projects to the county.”
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JUST A THOUGHT
The Cornish economy is fragile, says Cornwall Business Forum CEO, Kevin Oliver. Collaboration is key
OPINION
TOGETHER WE’RE STRONGER ack in 2012 the ONS statistics showed that there were 50,000 self employed people in Cornwall. Now that figure has risen to 71,500. Does this show that Cornwall is full of entrepreneurial spirits looking to generate businesses that take advantage of the lifestyle available in Cornwall? Or does it show a necessity to attempt self preservation because there is a lack of jobs with a living wage attached? The answer is in my experience yes to both questions. I have run hundreds of business events over the past years and met thousands of business decision makers, from start-ups to longestablished businesses employing hundreds of people. Amongst them there are some new and old, with tremendously talented people with terrific ideas and sound businesses products or services, very busy with the capacity to grow. There are some tremendously talented people, who are struggling to generate enough work to sustain their businesses. There are some who have gone into business because they cannot see an alternative. It is a simple fact that the Cornish economy, which has almost a third of its economically active population as self employed in predominantly micro businesses, is fragile. The events I run are called “Collaboration Hubs” where I bring together small groups of business decision makers with differing core skills, who then share their knowledge and skills with each other as critical friends to help each other achieve their goals. It does not matter whether the attendees are established or start-ups, the result is that everyone goes away
with a little more knowledge, some new found connections and some inspiration. It is hugely gratifying to see the uplift gained and the opportunities for working together generated at our events. Working in collaboration, our micro business community are capable of winning more business, reducing cost and increasing efficiencies. Gaining an independent viewpoint from outside the business, from other experienced business people can create “lightbulb” moments for the very best business people. There is also a downside. It is hugely frustrating to see some businesses capable of so much more, not achieving their potential because they have been poorly advised or do not have the will or capital to embrace positive change. Some of these businesses, who employ hundreds of people, as a result are skating on thin ice. With the right investment, partnerships and commitment to change, this need not be the case. We now have approaching 10,000 member businesses and by virtue of numbers and understanding our member businesses, we aim to create opportunities for them in line with their needs and ambitions. What I am involved with is scratching the surface of what needs to happen to strengthen the Cornish economy. It is apparent to me that working collaboratively could produce life changing benefits for hundreds of businesses across the county, who in turn would be able to create jobs with a living wage attached. Whether it is export of Cornish produce (across the Tamar and beyond), securing contracts from wealthier parts of the country, or accessing new customers and markets around the globe, collaboration for Cornwall is I believe key. I would like to know whether your experience would support or conflict with my view of the economic landscape in Cornwall.
What I am involved with is scratching the surface of what needs to happen to strengthen the Cornish economy
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TEST DRIVE
GOLF GTE
GOLF GTE
This month Morveth Ward has been trying out one of Volkswagens green offerings – the hybrid Golf GTE he GTE can be viewed and compared in two categories: firstly, as a ‘green’ car and secondly as a ‘hot hatch’. I will tackle each in turn, starting with the former: The GTE is a plug-in hybrid that can be run on electric only up to a range of a claimed 30 miles. This means that the GTE has to suit your lifestyle to be properly effective in achieving its goals. If your commute and / or regular journeys are less than 30 miles (more if you have a charging point at work and you can charge it
during the day) then it’s super because you should in theory be able to run it on electric only (depending on your driving). Yet you also have the ability to travel long distances without running out of range because of the 1.4l petrol engine. However, be aware that if you have regular long distance journeys then the economy will be very average as you’ll be running on petrol a lot of the time. The subject of cost must be raised here because the GTE is undeniably expensive, at over £33k and being nearly £10k more than a Prius. However, the GTE is more than just a
family car, this is a car with vigour and grunt too - in theory you get all the environmental and cost saving benefits of a hybrid coupled with the performance and driver-appeal of a hot hatch. That’s why you pay more. And it’s a Golf, regarded as one of the best and most premium hatchbacks since its inception in the 70s. There are high expectations when Volkswagen attaches its GT badge to something – so immediately I was expecting the GTE to be exceptional – as I know the new 2L petrol GTI to be. The GTE is striking and stand-out to look at, the distinguished blue detailing give it a unique identity whilst subtly revealing its green credentials and more spirited side in equal measures. The GTE is undoubtedly impressive and with over 200 bhp, it is a quick too. It’s not quite as much fun as the GTI nor is it as capable, however you still know it’s a ‘GT’, being a capable and entertaining package. It does have some premium equipment as well, such as ‘Intelligent driver assistance systems’ which can increase driving comfort and help you manage critical situations - or even avoid them. The adaptive cruise control will hold an adjustable set distance between you and the car in front. I used this and found it to be really useful. The GTE’s USP is that it is a green(ish) car with much of the tax, economic and environmental benefits, yet with some of the pizazz of a hot hatch. Perfect for those who are keen to adopt a greener commute yet still retain some driver appeal. However the viability really depends on your lifestyle – perfect for those where your journeys are mostly within range but unsuitable if you do regular long journeys. Carrs Volkswagen, Indian Queens and Helston T - 01726 862333 E - simonwebb@carrsvolkswagen.co.uk
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GOLF GTE
TEST DRIVE
There are high expectations when Volkswagen attaches its GT badge to something
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EVENTS
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY EVENTS 6
OPPPORTUNITIES 2018
China Fleet Country Club, Saltash
Businesses are invited to learn more about Cornwall & Isles of Scilly LEP’s 10 Opportunities document, its pitch to the Government so they understand how our region can help the UK economy grow. cioslep.com/events
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BODMIN BUSINESS BREAKFAST
Software Cornwall invites you for an afternoon of lunch, networking and talks on a range of subjects from Agile and eHealth, through to Spacetech and marketing. eventbrite.co.uk
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A day of connecting and networking with a wide range of businesses at the Budock Vean Hotel is just what is needed for the February blues! With the opportunity to boost your business and listen to well informed presenters. cornwallchamber.co.uk/events
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FASTTRACK DIGITAL MARKETING
Falcon Hotel, Bude
Follow up course to the ‘Marketing for Success’ workshop. This interactive workshop will help you put together a digital marketing plan which works for you. At the end of this session, you will have knowledge of some basic digital jargon and understand of the role of each channel within digital marketing. transformcornwall.co.uk/events
Top 5 this month EventsDiary_Feb18.indd 2
This month’s networking gathering will explain how you can protect your idea, with the specialist IP speaker. FSB Connect networking events take place on the second Thursday of each month. eventbrite.co.uk
Budock Vean Hotel
The breakfasts are open to all and provide an opportunity for business people to network and catch up with each other over a top quality breakfast. There are speakers at some (but not all) meetings. jb@sproullllp.co.uk
TECH CONNECTIONS
COACHING YOUR TEAM
Falcon Hotel, Bude
In this empowering workshop from the Transform programme, you will clearly understand the potential within your team and identify how to help them achieve it. You will learn how to coach in the moment in day to day work interactions, in important working relationships. transformcornwall.co.uk/events
CORNWALL CHAMBER LUNCH
Westberry Hotel, Bodmin
St Austell Conference Centre
FSB CONNECT
The Barge, Bude
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Eden Project
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Birdies Bistro, Hayle
GREENE KING IPA CHAMPIONSHIP
Cornish Pirates v Yorkshire Carnegie
For a truly memorable occasion, match day hospitality is the perfect way to entertain clients and colleagues alike. Match day hospitality starts at £45 per person plus VAT. robyn.ashurst@cornish-pirates.com
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FALMOUTH BUSINESS CLUB
Norway Inn, Perranarworthal
Business networking club that meets at the Norway Inn every second Thursday, today featuring guest speaker, Kim Conchie, chief executive of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce. falmouthbusinessclub.co.uk
HEARTLANDS BUSINESS BREAKFAST
Red River Café, Pool
An excellent opportunity to meet other local businesses in the area, gain contacts and establish mutually beneficial relationships. Cost: £10 (includes a locally sourced Cornish breakfast). Zoe.morrison@heartlandscornwall. com
FUTURE FOCUS
The next Future Focus event from Unlocking Potential ‘People, Planet, Profit’ is a ground-breaking event for Cornish business leaders in the inimitable setting of the Eden Project. How do our social, cultural and environmental responsibilities affect the way we do business? eventbrite.co.uk
HAYLE BUSINESS BREAKFAST
The Hayle Business Breakfast meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Birdies Bistro in Hayle. All welcome. sarah@abodepropertyagents.co.uk
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Falcon Hotel, Bude
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VISIT CORNWALL TOURISM SUMMIT
FINANCIAL TOOLS
This Transform Programme workshop for business owners and non-financial managers will help you to create sales forecasts, to review business costs and revenue and to calculate your business’ breakeven point. transformcornwall.co.uk/events
Headland Hotel, Newquay
Tourism businesses are being offered the chance to get ahead for 2018 and learn from leading industry experts at Visit Cornwall’sTourism Summit. Tickets are £40pp or £30pp for Visit Cornwall members. eventbrite.co.uk
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HFC NETWORKS CLUB
Hall for Cornwall, Truro
The first HFC Networks Club gathering of 2018. HFC’s fundraising team will be giving an update to guests on all things Hall for Cornwall, which will be followed by an introduction to April’s guest speaker Jules Barton from Unlocking Potential. seans@hallforcornwall.org.uk
OPPORTUNITIES 2018
Tregenna Castle, St Ives
Businesses are invited to learn more about Cornwall & Isles of Scilly LEP’s 10 Opportunities document, its pitch to the Government so they understand how our region can help the UK economy grow. cioslep.com/events
CYBER SECURITY MASTERCLASS
Cornwall Chamber, Redruth
Cornwall Chamber is hosting a Cyber Security Masterclass for members and non-members alike. The session will be delivered by Martin Dinham, business development manager at CF Systems. cornwallchamber.co.uk/events
ART OF COURAGEOUS CONVERSATIONS
Falcon Hotel, Bude
In this lively workshop you will gain confidence and feel empowered to show strong leadership when facing challenges, defusing sensitive issues and situations using a positive and calm approach in line with your company values. transformcornwall.co.uk/events
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CORNWALL NEW ENERGY EVENT
Bedruthan Steps Hotel
Learn about Cornwall New Energy (CNE) and its work supporting local businesses to develop, promote and install renewable energy solutions and services. cornwallnewenergy.com
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NETWORKING Business Cornwall’s Morveth Ward keeps us up to date on the networking scene January was straight back in to action with an abundance of events taking place in line with the refreshed motivation and ambition going in to 2018 with many looking to progress businesses and careers alike. As a result, growth was a theme which appeared obviously. Growth Hub on the Road hosted its Strategies for Growth event which provided an opportunity to remind yourself of why you started your business and what you want to achieve. Mark Sullivan, CEO of Provenance Brands and Lerryn Clare and Lucy Cox, joint founders & directors of MyHalto gave their contrasting perspectives on planning for business growth. Business Cornwall LIVE! hosted its Business Toolkit event at Pool Innovation centre where attendees heard from five speakers on totally different ways in which you can look to up your game in 2018. This ranged from broader growth advice to more specific ways – for example iSightCornwall talked about the pool of talent you could be missing out on if you haven’t considered employing people with a disability. Other events on a similar theme included Oxford Innovation’s Marketing for Success event. The regular events continued as normal, including the likes of the Chamber Breakfast and Falmouth Business Club. A couple of events worth noting that you may not be aware of are Hayle Business Breakfast and Penzance Business Breakfast.
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CORNWALL CHAMBER BREAKFAST
Jamaica Inn, Bodmin Moor
Come along to the moors of Bodmin and enjoy a chance to increase your business network with this breakfast. The chamber will have around 110-180 attendees so book now to avoid disappointment! cornwallchamber.co.uk/events
Private networking club, The Samphire Club, has expanded its offering through the establishment of The Samphire Club Property Group. The Property Group will sit within the main Samphire Club and is specifically designed for anyone who is involved in, or indeed interested in working with, property and construction sector professionals. The group will meet four times a year for an informal, end-of-theworking-week, buffet lunch. The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) believe that 2018 is a pivotal year for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly where the economic landscape is changing and new industries emerging. LEP invites you to a series of events to discuss these new opportunities, and the investment that can make them happen. It has drafted a prospectus called ’10 Opportunities’. This is its pitch to Government (and investors) so they understand how our region can help the UK economy grow. The LEP wants to share it with you, listen to your responses and make sure it has got it right. So if you missed the first ’10 Opportunities’ event in January then do not worry as there are three more to go including Saltash on February 6 and St Ives on February 27.
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FSB CORNWALL WOMEN CONFERENCE
The Tresanton, St Mawes
The Hotel Tresanton in St Mawes will be the venue for a special FSB Women Cornwall event on February 27. The event, which has been designed by the FSB’s taskforce group, will bring people together to be inspired, gain confidence, discover new business skills and make some great contacts. fsb.org.uk/cornwall
24/01/2018 10:18
CONNECTED
CORNWALL
SPONSORED BY
www.cioslep.co.uk
AWARDS LAUNCH A special event was held at the Pool Innovation Centre to mark the launch of this year’s Cornwall Business Awards RIGHT: PAUL CRITCHLEY (SMILE TOGETHER DENTAL) AND AL HOARE (CORSEV) BELOW FROM LEFT: TOBY PARKINS (HEADFORWARDS), NICKY POOLEY (CDC) AND KIRSTY MILES-MUSGRAVE; BECKS POLSON (UNLOCKING POTENTIAL), ALLYSON GLOVER (UNLOCKING POTENTIAL), TIM COCKS (ACTIVE PLUS) AND RUTH HUXLEY (GREAT CORNISH FOOD)
SENIOR EXECUTIVES’ FORUM Trevenson Restaurant at Cornwall College provided an inspirational backdrop for the Senior Executives’ Forum lunch, hosted by CCB Training, where guests heard from LEP chairman Mark Duddridge RIGHT: ALISON ELVEY (ROBINSON REED LAYTON) AND SHARON STOCKDALE (STOCKDALE ACCOUNTANTS) BOTTOM FROM LEFT: PAUL RAGLAN (MINING SEARCHES UK), EWAN MCCLYMONT (BISHOP FLEMING) AND ALISON MORDEN-HAWKE (RALPH & CO SOLICITORS); ROB DUNN (DUCHY COLLEGE) AND MARK DUDDRIDGE (LEP/RODDA’S); PETER MOODY (ST AUSTELL PRINTING COMPANY), GREG OLDRIEVE (VICKERY HOLMAN)
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BUSINESS CORNWALL
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CORNWALL
CONNECTED
ROYAL VISIT
Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, was in Cornwall last month and among her stops was Truro Cathedral, where she leant her support to the Roof Appeal, and the Cornish Cheese Company RIGHT: HER ROYAL HIGHNESS SIGNS A SLATE BELOW CORNISH CHEESE OWNER PHILIP STANSFIELD WITH THE PRINCESS ROYAL
CORNWALL LAW SOCIETY AGM The Cornwall Law Society held its 134th AGM and member dinner, at the Headland Hotel in Newquay, where John Whiting was elected new president RIGHT: PAST PRESIDENT LUCY THEOBALD HANDING OVER THE CHAIN OF OFFICE TO JOHN WHITING
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THE LAST
WORD
SPONSORED BY Contact: A. E. Verona Cocks E: vcocks@setfords.co.uk | T: 01209 708 651 www.setfords.co.uk
TOM SMITH
The innermost secrets of Miller Commercial head of commercial agency, Tom Smith
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG?
A paratrooper. Then I realised when I was about 17 that it was far too dangerous and that a glistening career in property awaited me.
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB? I worked in the kitchen at the Prince of Wales pub in Esher. An eye opening experience…. WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKETS? My iPhone most of the time. HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX? Over a pint in a decent pub with a good view out to sea or over the moors. WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?
Breaking the mould and getting out of London for a new life in Cornwall. I haven’t looked back since.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE WORST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER? A long story….it involved a night out, a prank by
some colleagues the next day, a fabricated chain of emails, a cherub and me being led to believe I was about to be fired. I will give you the full story over a pint sometime.
WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT CORNWALL? The coastline. Whether cliff walking, sailing, fishing or surfing along the north coast, the opportunities are endless. And it’s essentially free! IF YOU COULD INVITE ANY TWO PEOPLE FOR DINNER, WHO WOULD THEY BE AND WHY WOULD YOU INVITE THEM?
Wellington and Nelson. Can you imagine the stories?! Two pioneering strategists and leaders at one of the most politically volatile times in European history, both with single minded determination that overcame odds stacked against them time and again.
IF YOU COULD BE GOD FOR A DAY, WHAT MIRACLE WOULD YOU PERFORM? I would delete Facebook
and Twitter.
WHAT WAS YOUR LUCKIEST BREAK? Getting my job on qualifying as a surveyor. I had been in the role for nine months as a trainee, I qualified and was pitched against two colleagues for the full time role. Didn’t enjoy pitching against two good friends but lady luck was with me. Goodness knows what direction I would have taken if I didn’t get that role!
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You are invited to the launch of
CORNWALL’S ONLY DIGITAL AGENCY WITH A RADIO STATION FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, GET YOUR BUSINESS IN FRONT OF 350,000 POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS A MONTH.
BE SEEN FROM £50 PER WEEK ALL ATTENDEES RECEIVE A
£20 AMAZON VOUCHER
* One voucher per attending business
VISIT WWW.PIRATE360.NET/LAUNCH TO BOOK YOUR PLACE AD_PAGES_Feb18.indd 6
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“For business or for home, Microtest have a dedicated team of professionals at the ready.�
Microtest Ltd, Normandy Way, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1EX Tel: 0845 345 1606 sales@microtestretail.co.uk AD_PAGES_Feb18.indd 7
24/01/2018 09:57