Business Cornwall March 20 by Business Cornwall

CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION

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MARCH 2020 | ISSUE 138 | £3.95

BRIGHT FUTURE CORNWALL’S 30 UNDER 30

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CORNWALL BUSINESS SHOW

MARCH 12 ROYAL CORNWALL SHOWGROUND

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Make Cornwall Air Ambulance your

CHARITY OF THE YEAR A Charity of the Year partnership with Cornwall Air Ambulance provides real benefits to your organisation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bringing your employees together and boosting morale, all for a worthwhile local cause. There are many ways you can get involved, including hosting your own event in aid of the charity or taking on a Team CAAT challenge. However you choose to support, you will be guided by an experienced fundraising team who can help you at every stage to make the most out of the close partnership. Find out how your organisation can get involved and support your local lifesaving charity: cornwallairambulancetrust.org/charity-of-the-year 01637 889926 enquiries@cornwallairambulancetrust.org

Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust | Registered charity 1133295 Trevithick Downs, Newquay, Cornwall TR8 4DY

MARCH 2020

INSIDE FEATURES 11 30 UNDER 30 CORNWALL’S BRIGHTEST YOUNG BUSINESS TALENT

18 BUSINESS GROWTH INVESTING IN A LOW CARBON FUTURE

20 CONFERENCE & VENUE GUIDE LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PLACE TO HOLD YOUR NEXT EVENT?

28 CORNWALL BUSINESS SHOW MEET CORNWALL’S LEADING SERVICE PROVIDERS UNDER ONE ROOF

ISSUE 138

REGULARS 4 INCOMING WHAT MAKES FOR A HAPPY WORKPLACE?

6 BUSINESS NEWS NEW HELI APPEAL PASSES TARGET

33 ON THE MOVE WHO’S GONE WHERE?

34 FOOD & DRINK PHONEIX FROM THE FLAMES

36 CREATIVE & DIGITAL B CORP STATUS FOR SOLVE

37 FSB LATEST FROM THE FSB

38 TOURISM MOUNT HAVEN FORCED TO CLOSE

39 CHAMBER NEWS UPDATE FROM CORNWALL CHAMBER

40 EDUCATION & TRAINING NEWS LEADING THE TECH REVOLUTION

42 JUST A THOUGHT AMY SHAKESPEARE COMMUNITY PROJECT MANAGER AT CORNWALL MUSEUMS PARTNERSHIP

44 CONNECTED WHAT’S GONE

47 EVENTS DIARY WHAT’S ON

48 THE LAST WORD PHONETA’S RICHARD WOODS

30 BUSINESS GROWTH HOW A PROJECT ON THE ISLES OF SCILLY IS SUPPORTING THE MOVE TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES

PHOTO: BEN FOGLE, GUEST SPEAKER AT THIS YEAR’S CORNWALL BUSINESS AWARDS SEE PAGE 10 FOR FULL STORY BUSINESS CORNWALL | 1

MARCH 2020

WELCOME

BY EDITOR NICK EYRIEY

ISSUE 138

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE ON THE COVER

EMILY STANBURY (FX PLUS), “30 UNDER 30” – SEE PAGE 11 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nick Eyriey nick@businesscornwall.co.uk PUBLISHER Toni Eyriey toni@businesscornwall.co.uk BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Morveth Ward morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk ACCOUNT MANAGER Caroline Carter caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk

A few months ago, a young woman from the University of Exeter gave an impassioned presentation to Cornwall Chamber of Commerce’s monthly breakfast meeting about the importance of Cornwall retaining its young graduates. Over the years the ‘brain drain’ has been an oft talked about subject. With historically low wages and perceived limited career opportunities, particularly when compared to the bright lights of London, young people in Cornwall have typically sought their fortune and future elsewhere. But in recent times there have been signs that this trend has been changing. The good work of the universities and the benefit felt from the European-funded programmes over the past 20 years has clearly had a positive impact. And further evidence can be found in the fourth edition of Cornwall’s 30 under 30 (see page 11), the annual listing of the Duchy’s brightest young business talent. From videographers through to digital marketing experts, there is clearly a burgeoning pool of talent in Cornwall all forging successful careers here without feeling the need to cross the Tamar in order to fulfil their dreams.

CONTRIBUTORS PFA Research, Toby Weller DESIGN Ade Taylor design@businesscornwall.co.uk PRINT 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

There is still some way to go, as Isabel Aruna, who herself features in the 30 under 30, explained to Chamber members at the breakfast meeting, but we are on the right track.

SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@businesscornwall.co.uk

Talking about Cornwall’s business talent, nominations are now open for the Cornwall Business Awards (see page 10), which this year will be presented by Ben Fogle.

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.

March is a busy month, with two leading B2B trade events. The three-day Expowest Cornwall begins on March 3 at the Royal Cornwall Showground, while it’s the turn of the Cornwall Business Show on March 12. We’ll be at both, so be sure to drop by and say hello.

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INCOMING

THE CONVERSATION

The big question How important is it to have a positive workplace culture? What does workplace culture mean to you and your business? Join the conversation @biz_cornwall

/businesscornwall

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ADVERTORIAL

WHAT DO YOU DO IF AN EMPLOYEE POSTS NEGATIVE COMMENTS ONLINE? It could be a negative comment about your business, a colleague or a client. Whatever the content of the social media post, taking stock and responding proportionately is important, explains Verity Slater, partner in the employment team at Stephens Scown LLP.

4 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

THE CONVERSATION

CLARE HARRIS

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly LEP, Beacon Project Walking into a workplace where people are happy and getting on with their work is a great feeling. By encouraging an inclusive and diverse work environment that inspires your staff to come to work, can help you achieve amazing things and we all want to work in places like that. Any business that knows a thing or two about creating a good working environment knows that if they can achieve this, it will pay back in terms of improved productivity, creativity, and employee engagement, meaning your business thrives and your employees want to stay and help you achieve business success.

BRIAN HARVEY PKF Francis Clark

Reinforcing and maintaining a positive culture is very important to PKF Francis Clark for a number of reasons. Culture is the environment that surrounds us all the time, it is our shared values and beliefs. A positive workplace culture improves teamwork, raises the morale, increases productivity and efficiency and enhances retention. Ultimately, it enables us to deliver our mission to start with our clients’ needs and ambitions and work as one to make success happen. We create a happy culture by putting people at the heart of everything we do, whether that’s the people we work for, or the people we work with. Our team say that they come to work every day for both their clients and their colleagues. We pride ourselves in being friendly, professional, supportive and inclusive, and as a firm, we strive to bring out the best in each other.

Despite your initial panic and annoyance if you find out that one of your employees has been posting something that concerns you online, it is important not to rush into a knee jerk reaction. First capture the evidence with a screen shot, then carefully consider your next steps.

DONNA NEGUS Sekoya

We should start by asking ourselves what workplace culture is. This is a topic that has been researched and evaluated within the HR profession for many years and has resulted in the determination that workplace norms, values, routines, traditions, perspectives, beliefs and behaviours are the crucial part of any culture. In simple terms it is ‘the way we do things round here’. We therefore ask ourselves why ‘the way we do things round here’ is important to any business. Every organisation wants to be a success, no business owner sets out with the aim to fail. If, as they should, any business owner recognises people as its most important asset, and realises that most of their team spend more waking hours at their job than anywhere else, they will understand that fostering the right place culture is paramount to their success. A happy and motivated workforce will achieve better results. Here at Sekoya, as a people orientated business, we value the input of all our team and regularly discuss the progress and direction of the business to ensure that everyone is happy to be on our journey. As a company supporting other business to be the employer of choice in their field it is essential that we lead by example.

NATALIE HADFIELD BSPOKE IT

For us, a positive workplace culture is imperative. Our team are the most important part of our business and without them we could not do what we do.

what the actual impact is by considering the number of people who have seen the post and how damaging it really is to your business. Dismissed employees have won unfair dismissal claims where the Employment Tribunal found that the impact was not that severe, and employers had not been clear enough about what was expected.

It is important to have a robust social media policy that you make your staff aware of. If your employee has clearly breached that policy, it makes it easier to take action.

It is important to follow your disciplinary process carefully, especially if your employee has more than two years’ service.

However, you still need to think about

If you routinely monitor employee

INCOMING

To ensure our teams feel valued and part of our business we do a number of different things. From including them in gaining new business, making decisions on priorities in the work place to the other end of the spectrum where they have the opportunity to go to yoga each week, slightly flexible working when required and team lunch where a member of the team cooks for every one and we all stop and have a catch up weekly. We are also part of the healthy workplace programme and really encourage the teams to take part in any volunteering or charity events.

EMMIE KELL

Cornwall Museums Partnership A happy and motivated workforce is an absolutely critical aspect of productivity and something that good leaders in any sector recognise and prioritise. To achieve it, there are a number of tools employers can deploy - many of these are supported by the Cornwall Healthy Workplace Scheme - which is free to access for any business. We’ve started to implement a range of ideas from encouraging employees to walk a mile every day to holding walking meetings; once a month we eat together as a team and provide time at team meetings to celebrate individual’s successes. We provide opportunities for employees to share their work and pitch new projects and ideas to the team. We’ve tried to increase the engagement between our board and staff, offering mentors to all staff members. Importantly, we are now tracking health and wellbeing through an annual staff survey and regular informal one to one meetings.

online activity you must undertake a privacy impact assessment and make this clear in your social media and data protection policies. Social media can offer a great opportunity for your business to interact directly with customers and stakeholders, but when an employee steps across the line to post something that is unacceptable, it is important to think carefully about your response.

Verity Slater is a partner in the employment team at Stephens Scown. Verity and her team can advise on social media policies and how to approach concerns about an employee’s social media use. Verity can be contacted on 01872 265200 or by emailing employment@ stephens-scown.co.uk. For more information go to www.stephens-scown.co.uk BUSINESS CORNWALL | 5

CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

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£680M OFFSHORE WIND POTENTIAL A new floating offshore wind industry in the Celtic Sea could support 3,200 jobs in the south west and Wales, and £682 million of spend in the local supply chain by 2030. These are the findings of a report by the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult (OREC) examining the potential economic benefits of installing floating wind turbines in waters off the coast of Wales and south west England. Floating offshore wind can be deployed in deeper waters where wind resource is higher and is not constrained by the need for fixed bottom foundations. The Conservative manifesto committed the UK to reaching 40GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 and enabling new floating wind farms. The OREC report was jointly commissioned by the Welsh Government and the

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) to examine how to maximise the economic opportunity of floating offshore wind projects. The report models four separate floating wind sites in the Celtic Sea, with two off the Cornwall coast and two off the coast of west Wales. It says the combined spend in the regional supply if all four projects went ahead could be £682 million, supporting 3,200 jobs. That spend could increase to £1.24 billion if there is further investment in

manufacturing facilities for mooring chains and cables, and port infrastructure. Glenn Caplin, chief executive of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly LEP, said: “The Celtic Sea is one of only two UK locations where floating offshore wind turbines willbe deployed at scale, the other being Scotland. This report, which we have jointly funded with the Welsh Government, sets out in detail the significant economic and jobs benefits that would accrue to our respective regions.”

GROWTH IN NEW BUSINESSES

WE HAVE TAKE OFF!

Latest statistics show that more new businesses were established in Cornwall during 2019 than in any previous year – hitting a record high for the second year in a row. Despite political and economic challenges, 2,948 new companies were registered in the county compared to 2,829 during 2018, representing an increase of 4.2%.

Cornwall Air Ambulance has flown past its fundraising target for a new air ambulance helicopter ahead of schedule. The lifesaving charity topped the £2.5 million target with two months of the appeal still to go. The New Heli Appeal, a two-year fundraising campaign to help purchase a next generation helicopter, was launched in April 2018. Since then, donations have flooded in with supporters taking part in challenges, holding events and much more to fundraise for the charity. Barbara Sharples, trustee and appeal board chair, said: “The New Heli Appeal has been 6 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

a tremendous journey for everyone who cherishes Cornwall Air Ambulance and we have been overwhelmed by the support received from the public. “We all feel truly humbled by the fantastic efforts of supporters, whether they live in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly or further afield. Every single person, business, community group and trust fund who has contributed receives our heartfelt thanks.” The AW169 helicopter was scheduled to arrive in Cornwall at the end last month, when the pilots, critical care paramedics and doctors will commence training on the new aircraft. It is expected to be operational on April 1, the charity’s 33rd birthday.

This brings the total number of registered companies in Cornwall to 23,037, up from 21,904 at the end of 2018 - which equates to 5.2% growth. The statistics come from the Inform Direct Review of Company Formations, using data from Companies House and the Office for National Statistics. John Korchak, director of operations at Inform Direct, said: “Reporting a record year – the second in a row – for new company formations in Cornwall during a turbulent year, politically and economically, is a major achievement. Attracting new ventures and encouraging entrepreneurs to set up there, means that the county is clearly delivering positive support for business.”

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NEWS IN BRIEF A Falmouth-based fashion retailer has been ranked in a league table of midmarket private companies with the fastest-growing international sales. Seasalt Cornwall is the only business from Cornwall to appear on the annual Sunday Times HSBC International Track 200, sneaking in at 199th place, with a 29% average growth in export sales over the past two years. It reports international sales of £3.7 million out of total sales £65.7 million.

‘PIVOTAL’ PROJECT UNDERWAY Work has started on one of Cornwall’s most eagerly anticipated projects – the transformation of Hayle Harbour into a vibrant new coastal quarter. Construction is under way at North Quay, the first phase of the scheme, which will feature homes, shops and open spaces, all set within a waterside location. More than a decade in the planning, the regeneration of Hayle Harbour has long been seen as a pivotal project in stimulating and sustaining economic growth in the town and west Cornwall.

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North Quay will feature approximately 140 properties over 11 buildings, including 17 three-bedroom wharf style houses and one, two and three-bedroom apartments, many with views over the Hayle estuary and beyond. Phase 1 also includes the development of North Quay Square, which will host events all year round, and some 20 retail units for offices, shops and restaurants. The development is being built by Corinthian Homes and is scheduled for completion this summer.

St Austell has been named as a finalist in this year’s RHS Britain in Bloom competition. The town will represent the south west in the ‘Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), Town Centres & City Centres’ category. The town will be visited by judges in August with the winners announced at a ceremony to be held in Manchester in October. ____________________ Cornwall Payroll Bureau has become only the second accountant or payroll bureau in Cornwall to achieve accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP). The Truro-based company passed the CIPP Payroll Assurance Scheme with the highest possible pass mark. ____________________ Exporters continued to tread water through the final quarter of 2019 according to the largest independent survey of UK firms, released by British Chambers of Commerce. The survey of more than 3,300 exporters revealed that manufacturing export orders weakened for a second consecutive quarter. Indicators for service sector exporters also decreased in the quarter and remain at historically low levels.

CMN ON THE TOP TABLE

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Cornwall Marine Network (CMN) has sealed a strategic alliance with the South Coast Marine Cluster to create Maritime UK South West.

adding £1.12 billion annually to Cornwall’s economy, with more than 900 businesses and 16,000 people employed.

As part of the new alliance, CMN has been appointed to the national council of Maritime UK (MUK), with the first national council board meeting of the year taking place last month in the presence of MUK’s national Patron, HRH the Princess Royal.

“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to provide a voice for the needs of Cornish businesses at the industry’s top table.

CMN chief executive, Paul Wickes, said: “The Cornish marine sector is in the best strategic position it’s been in for years,

“CMN will use this opportunity to further develop stronger ties to Government, provide a commercial voice to policy makers, develop and support more commercial opportunities, all aimed at increasing trade and investment for local businesses.”

The University of Exeter has been awarded £4 million in further funding to continue with a project researching technology, health and housing in Cornwall. The University’s Smartline project, which is a European Union-funded research and innovation project exploring the relationship between technology and the way people live in their homes and communities, has been running since 2017 in Camborne, Illogan, Pool and Redruth.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 7

CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

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HEATHROW REPRIEVE

Cornwall’s link with Heathrow has been given a reprieve – for the summer at least. British Airways is to run a new five times per week service beginning from early July through to early September. The new route will not only help support the important inbound tourism market from both the London area and internationally via worldwide connections, but also offer more connectivity and choice for Cornwall’s residents. The current route to London Heathrow, operated by Flybe, comes to an end on March 28, with the Public Service Obligation (PSO) route switching to London Gatwick the following day. Richard Thomasson, interim airport director at Cornwall Airport Newquay, said: “We are delighted to confirm we can continue to offer this vital link between Cornwall and Heathrow, and to welcome British Airways back to Cornwall this summer. “As a global carrier BA will be able to offer passengers one-stop access to the world, as well as more choice in terms of travelling between Cornwall and the capital.” Thomasson called it “an exciting time” for the airport, which this month welcomes another new route, to Amsterdam.

ALTEC IS EMPLOYEE OWNED A small family-run business based in Victoria near St Austell has become the latest Cornish firm to become employee owned. The 25 staff now own 100% of the company through an Employee Ownership Trust. Altec & Victoria operates two businesses on its site at Station Approach. Altec Extrusions is a manufacturer of tubing, extrusions and 3D printing filament. Victoria Offices provides flexible office space plus conference and training facilities. Employeeowned law firm Stephens Scown LLP and PKF Francis Clark advised on its transition to employee ownership. The business was originally started by current MD Graham Honey’s father in 1972 and Graham joined in 1985. As he began thinking about succession and his own retirement, he started looking into employee ownership.

“For me there were two driving forces behind employee ownership over any other exit strategy,” he explained. “Firstly, I didn’t like the idea of selling the business to a competitor. I’ve seen many times the negative effect this can have on a business and its staff. It was also important for me to create a personal legacy. I’ve spent 35 years building up this business which my Dad started and I wanted to find a way to preserve that for the benefit of everyone who works here.” As part of the transition, longstanding managers Adam Gilbert, Clare Smith and Anthea Newman have been appointed as directors. Graham Honey will stay on with the business for a handover period to support them and newly-appointed MD Nic Southcott.

PORTHLEVEN SCHEME UNDERWAY

A £2 million project to create new workspace on the outskirts of Porthleven is underway having secured £700k from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). The project is being spearheaded by the Porthleven Harbour and Dock Company (PHDC) and represents the first of two phases of work on the site, initially creating workspace for 40 jobs across three business units, helping to diversify 8 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Porthleven’s seasonal, tourism-led economy. There will also be 40 public car parking spaces and a cycle hire scheme to reduce congestion in the picturesque harbourside town, which is very busy in the summer months. The project is being supported by the LEP using £700k from the Government’s Local Growth Fund, with a further £1.3 million coming from the PHDC.

Glenn Caplin, chief executive of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly LEP, said: “This is an important project for Porthleven that will provide year-round employment and help local businesses to become more productive by offering them modern workspace that meets their needs and helps them grow. “It will also reduce car journeys and congestion in the town centre with better connectivity on foot and by bike, and that’s good news for residents and visitors.” Truro-based RHOS Construction have been appointed by PHDC to build the project, which is expected to be completed in the autumn, with businesses moving in before the end of the year.

Success in business happens when the right things happen at the right time Coodes are experts in making this happen Lawyers who understand your business Call to see how we can help

0800 328 3282 coodes.co.uk

BUSINESS

AWARDS

time to

shine

Cornwall Business Awards 2020 open for entries The search is now on for the best of the best as the Cornwall Business Awards launch for 2020. From great places to work and customer experience, to exporters and rising stars; the awards recognise companies that demonstrate why Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly is such a great place to do business. Now in its 15th year, the awards are organised by the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Growth and Skills Hub, an independent service to help businesses grow through support and training. This year there are three new categories, recognising the contribution made to business success by employees, finance and inclusive workplaces. Kirsty Miles-Musgrave, communications manager for the Growth and Skills Hub, said: “We wanted to recognise that business

growth is driven by the staff who come to work every day. So, as well as celebrating how management teams can build companies and growth, and the leaders with vision who inspire their team, we wanted to recognise the other people that make a business great and the impact finance can have. “The new Employee of the Year, Beacon Inclusivity and Business Finance Awards do just that.” This year’s guest speaker will be Ben Fogle, who first burst into the nation’s screens during one of the UK’s first reality TV shows Castaway. Marooned on a remote Scottish island to build a self-sufficient community, the show was filmed and broadcast over a year in 2000 on BBC One. Ben was the standout star, launching a career as that has seen him present programmes such as Countryfile, Animal Park and Crufts. Ben has kept up his adventurer spirit climbing Mount Everest, rowing across the Atlantic, raced across Antarctica to the South Pole and crossed the deserts of the Empty Quarter in the Middle East. He has written nine best-selling books, is United Nations Patron of the Wilderness and the Red Cross as well as being an ambassador to WWF and Hearing Dogs for the Deaf. The Cornwall business community will gather for the awards night on June 25 with applications for the awards open now until March 23. Any business or sole trader based in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly can apply with applications open until midnight on Monday March 23. The awards are completely free to enter. Winners will be announced at a gala ceremony on June 25. www.cornwallbusinessawards.co.uk

10 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

AWARD CATEGORIES · Beacon Inclusivity Award

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VENUE GUIDE

Seven The magnificent

Thinking of hosting a fantabulous business event but not sure where to start? We have some great venues for you to consider, while event planner Hazel Parsons explains how working with a professional planning company could save you time, money and a great deal of stress The average time B2B companies spend planning events is between 5-8 weeks!

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve decided you would like to create a product launch, corporate event, teambuilding experience or trade show, you are probably thinking this is a project that can be carried out easily by you or one of your team. So, why would you consider booking an event planner to do it for you? Planning a business event is often admin heavy and at points, it can be overwhelming. You can spend a great deal of time

researching your venue, negotiating prices, booking suppliers, choosing menus and managing RSVPs prior to the event even taking place. You may, of course, think it will save the business money if we organise it ourselves - It might but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highly unlikely that this will be the case. Continued on page 26

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 21

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VENUE GUIDE

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INSPIRING SPACES St Austell Conference Centre is a spectacular and sustainable venue in the heart of Cornwall

FACILITIES INCLUDE • Number of delegates: 100 • Number of event rooms: 5 • Free Parking • Dedicated Events Team • Catering • AV support • Superfast Wifi • Discounted professional printing • Exceptional views

With a conference venue this spectacular you can expect a service to match. You’ll have a helping hand from a dedicated event team supporting and looking after you every step of the way. The facilities boast the latest in AV technology, superfast WIFI, accessibility, free parking and inspirational outdoor spaces – all in a convenient location easily accessible from the A30 and Cornwall Airport Newquay. Since opening its doors seven years ago, St Austell Conference Centre has fastbecome one of the most popular and versatile venues in the south west – attracting a wide range of organisations and businesses from across the UK who choose this modern, fresh, sustainable venue in the heart of Cornwall. Part of St Austell Printing Company, the UK’s most environmentally-friendly printing company, the conference centre offers inspiring spaces for conferences, events, training and meetings. The purpose-built modern facilities make the most of natural light and give the venue a unique, professional quality. Enjoy stunning panoramic views across St Austell Bay stretching out to sea on one side, and take in historic Clay Country and capture Cornwall’s highest point, Brown Willy on the other.

22 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Lunch and breaks offer time for networking, idea sharing and engaging conversations. St Austell Conference Centre’s quality catering is an essential part of that - offering handmade, locally sourced produce: Cornish cheese, Duchy fish, pastries and tapas platters. St Austell Conference Centre has an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating – the world’s leading sustainability assessment for buildings. By harvesting water, housing a grass topped roof and being powered by a large array of solar panels, this fuses efficiency, ecology and excellence to bring you a conference facility that stands out. With the ability to accommodate everything from a quick meeting, training or video conference through to a largescale event for up-to 100 people, the Conference Centre offers flexibility and an unrivalled professional service.

For more information please contact the dedicated Conference team on 01726 624200, email info@staustellbusinesspark.co.uk or visit www.staustellconferencecentre.co.uk where you can also request a copy of our brochure.

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ATLANTIC

HOTEL NEWQUAY

BORINGDON HALL MAKE A DATE FOR BUSINESS OR PLEASURE

5* Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa on the edge of Dartmoor is no stranger to grand occasions and notable events. The building’s rich 16th century history is peppered with royal visits, business banquets and decision-making dinners. The arrow slit windows, sweeping staircases and four-poster bedrooms give Boringdon Hall a charm and heritage like no other which makes business making a real pleasure.

SPACES • Mayflower • Elizabethan Suite • Parker Suite • Rose Room

CORPORATE WELLNESS Home to the South West’s destination spa, Gaia Spa, Boringdon offer complete corporate wellness packages, corporate spa membership, group wellbeing spa days and soothing spa breaks, all at one location.

A unique events venue where function and frivolity come together seamlessly, the Elizabethan manor house’s dramatic exterior houses a collection of versatile event suites; each of which is a delight. Whether you are planning the ultimate birthday celebration, an industry trade show, a stylish dinner dance or a flamboyant charity event, Boringdon Hall has the experience and the space to achieve truly exquisite results. From your initial enquiry to the moment you welcome your guests, the Boringdon events team will be with you every step of the way and can tailor your event to your needs, whether it be a meeting, presentation, business lunch, networking event or private dining.

Set in 10 acres of FACILITIES INCLUDE private headland, the award winning • Complimentary parking for 4 star Atlantic Hotel up to 200 in Newquay, North • WIFI Cornwall offers first • 6 event / function spaces class facilities, award • Capacity of 500 plus winning dining, multiple • 57 sea view bedrooms function and conference spaces, seating up to • Indoor and outdoor leisure 500. Minutes away from facilities world class beaches, • Spa golf courses, town • Gardens and outdoor terrace centre, and 15 minutes • Licensed for live music away from Cornwall • Separate function kitchen Airport, Newquay. The Atlantic Hotel is the • AA Rosette Silks Bistro & et in 10 acres of private headland, the award perfect location for an Champagne Bar winning star Atlantic Hotel in Newquay, away day, conference or 4 • Billiard room North Cornwall offers first class facilities, corporate break. New • Dedicated events manager award winning dining, and multiple function conference packages • Discounted accommodation and conference spaces, seating up to 500. include breakfast, Minutes away world class beaches, golf forfrom delegates evening, day and 24 courses, town centre, and 15 minutes away hour options to suit from Cornwall Airport, Newquay, the Atlantic your budget. And with Hotel is the location for an away day, conference or corporate dedicated event planners available, precision and first class break. New conference packages include Breakfast, Evening, service standard. Dayisand 24 hour options to suit your budget, and with dedicated Planners available during office hours, 01637 872244Events | info@atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk planning, precision and first class service is standard. www.atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk

ATLANTIC HOTEL NEWQUAY

Atlantic Hotel, Dane Road, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1EN

FACILITIES INCLUDE

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Complimentary parking for up to 200 WIFI 6 event / function spaces Capacity of 500 plus 57 sea view bedrooms Indoor and outdoor leisure facilities Spa Gardens and outdoor terrace Licensed for live music Separate Function Kitchen AA Rosette Silks Bistro & Champagne Bar Billiard Room Dedicated Events Manager Discounted accommodation for delegates

T: 01637 872244 / info@atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk www.atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk / Atlantic Hotel, Dane Road, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1EN

01752 344455 | events@boringdonhall.co.uk | boringdonhall.co.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 23

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SANDS RESORT

HOTEL & SPA

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and with easy access to the A30 and Newquay Airport, Sands Resort Hotel is an excellent choice for your next conference, meeting or training day. The modern hotel is based just outside of Newquay and offers different sized conference rooms for up to 150 delegates and equipped with the latest technology to make your event a success. Businesses can choose between several conference packages which may include tea, coffee, cake, light snacks or a hot buffet lunch. Delegate day rates including lunch start from £19 per person. Also available are ‘room hire only’ rates from £60. Overnight stays start from £60 per person including breakfast and use of the indoor pool and steam room. The onsite spa offers relaxing treatments after a busy conference day. Sands Resort Hotel also has a large free car park with space for everyone attending the event.

T: 01637 872 864 www.sandsresort.co.uk

NANCARROW FARM FACILITIES INCLUDE • 40-130 delegates

• Rates from £17 (ex VAT)

Businesses can choose between several conference packages which may include tea, coffee, cake, light snacks or a hot buffet lunch

FACILITIES INCLUDE • Conference rooms for up to 150 delegates • Conference package incl. lunch from £19pp • ‘Room hire only’ from £60 • Latest technology & WIFI • Free, large car park • Accommodation from £60pp incl. breakfast • Indoor Pool & Spa

Just four miles from Truro, Nancarrow is an organic farm and events venue nestled in a south facing valley, just off the A30. Whether it’s a corporate conference with a twist, a celebratory feast or an unforgettable away day, our barns are a unique place to host your event. And it’s not just our barns that are available either, if you’re feeling creative our entire farm is yours. With bespoke packages, we can tailor your event any number of ways so just let us know what you need and we’ll work with you to ensure your time on the farm is distinctive and memorable.

• Versatile meeting and breakout spaces • Unique setting and beautiful barns • Exclusive use • Central location • 9 ensuite bedrooms • Fantastic outdoor areas • Bespoke packages available • Events Manager • Bar & in-house catering team • Away day/Workshop packages available on request • WiFi • Free parking • Disabled access • Licensed for live music

An organic farm for over 20 years, we produce food which boosts biodiversity and is kind to the environment. Operating sustainably is integral to what we do with renewable energy generation, tree planting, reduced food miles and food waste, plus a rigorous recycling and plastic reduction policy. Our food sets us apart. We understand how important good food is to keep people engaged and inspired. Whether it’s a street food lunch served from our woodfired kitchen or a four-course seasonal feast in our Oak Barn, you can design a bespoke menu with our in-house team made using the freshest, seasonal produce, grown here on the farm.

www.nancarrowfarm.co.uk | hello@nancarrowfarm.co.uk | 01872 487099

24 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

www.lacunabusiness.com

CORNWALL

SPONSORED BY

TREVENSON HOUSE CONFERENCE CENTRE & MEETING SPACE – POOL At Trevenson House we offer high-quality, attentive and friendly service, making hosting your next meeting or conference with us the perfect solution for your business needs. We are conveniently situated between FACILITIES INCLUDE Camborne and Redruth, • Free onsite parking providing flexible conferencing facilities, • Video conferencing system meeting space and fully • Large interactive screens serviced modern offices. We have a choice of • Superfast free WiFi three fully equipped • Bean-to-cup coffee conference rooms, machines which can be configured in a variety of room layouts to suit events of up to 40 delegates per room. Our Grade II listed property has been beautifully and extensively refurbished, bringing life back to an historic building. The elegant mix of 17th-century features with contemporary styling and 21st-century facilities such as superfast internet, video conferencing and interactive screens ensures Trevenson House stands out as offering something truly unique. We take great pride in providing great quality catering using local, seasonal produce wherever possible. All packages will be tailored to your needs and dietary requirements and your experience at Trevenson House will be overseen from start to finish by our professional and friendly front of house team. For further details please contact our front of house team on 01209 240161 trevensonhouse.co.uk

VENUE GUIDE

BUDOCK VEAN HOTEL MAKING BUSINESS A PLEASURE

A beautiful 4-star, country house hotel set in 65 acres of gardens and woodlands on the Helford River. Newly created in 2019, our function suite offers modern functionality and flexibility in a calm, countryside setting.

FACILITIES INCLUDE • Up to 60 delegates • Built in AV • Private dining options / bar • Breakfast sessions, day packages & residential deals available

• 55 bedrooms You can use our • Golf course meeting rooms as one or split into three • Private foreshore with different zones giving optional boat trips and you the privacy and kayaking flexibility to create the • Free parking / EV chargers right set up for the type of event you are • Spa / pool planning. Each room has built in visual & sound kit with volume that can be controlled in each space.

Large windows overlook the golf course and gardens which offer leg-stretching opportunities with a path through the valley garden down to the foreshore. Your event will be in safe hands at Budock Vean, an independent, family run hotel with a fine reputation for service, setting and style. Our chefs create stunning food which will keep your guests going throughout the day and delegates are welcome to make use of the indoor pool, hot tub & sauna, when you give them the nod of course. So, if you’re looking for a venue that takes you a little off the beaten track; that gives you space to get brains ticking, teams building and work done give us a call, we’d love to show you around.

01326 250288 | www.budockvean.co.uk Mawnan Smith, TR11 5LG

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 25

CORNWALL

VENUE GUIDE

SPONSORED BY

www.lacunabusiness.com

Continued from page 21

Event planners work closely with their clients to create a cost-effective, cohesive and strategic event plan that is in tune with the business. The average time B2B companies spend planning events is between 5-8 weeks!

Let’s just think about that, would you be able to take time out of your day to day role to do this? Would it make financial sense to do so?

You may think you will be able to negotiate better rates with suppliers. However, this is a myth. Unless you run an events company you won’t have access to the same supply chains or contact book. Event planners plan and manage events on a daily basis:

• They have already put in the groundwork and research for sourcing suppliers and checked their suitability.

• They understand the costs involved of each element of the event budget and what represents good value based on the clients brief.

• You are able to work with their contact book to produce the event, from suppliers to press, potential guests and industry influencers.

• They have an in-depth knowledge of what’s available and what is possible, this will allow you to access to beneficial rates and a much broader supply chain.

• They have a great deal of knowledge when it comes to choosing your venue and suppliers, they will ensure that they choose options that work with your guest numbers, budget and brief.

• They will negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers, oversee third parties and carry out any necessary paperwork on your behalf.

All of this saves you time, money and a lot of unnecessary stress!

So, what other benefits are there to booking an event planner?

• They manage people - third parties, guests and clients to ensure smooth running the best experience for all involved. • They have systems in place for creating and delivering events.

• They will have the ability to problem-solve on their feet. • They will produce a finished, carefully curated, professional event. • They will help ensure your event is a success! • They are known for their calming presence and fresh thinking approach.

Finally, you will be able to get on with your day job safe in the knowledge that you have an expert looking after the event.

If you would like to discuss your next event and how the team at Hazel Parsons can help, contact them on 07900 954051 or me@hazelparsons.com

HAZEL’S TOP FIVE TIPS FOR CREATING A SELL-OUT EVENT 1 Have clear event goals, a marketing plan and budget that supports them. 2 Target your audience understand who they are and how best to reach them? 3 Tell them why they need to attend - what are the benefits of attending? 4 Create a fear of missing out (FOMO) 5 Ensure you invite the movers, shakers and influencers to attend and talk about the event pre, during and post-event.

26 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 27

BUSINESS

SHOW

Let the

show begin! The Cornwall Business Show is great example of Cornwall’s diverse, thriving and entrepreneurial business community, and will provide visitors with plenty of food for thought on ways to develop and grow their companies. With over 120 exhibitors there are lots of companies that can help you discover new products and services and innovations to optimise your business. One of the biggest sectors to be represented at the 2020 event will be IT and telecommunications. More than a dozen tech and telephony companies have booked for this year, offering expertise in everything from

unified communications, cyber-security and specialist telecoms to bespoke hardware and software solutions. The show will be an ideal opportunity for businesses hoping to explore the business support options available to them. And with uncertainty over international markets and how that might affect the national picture, making the most of the local economy is more important than ever. The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Growth and Skills Hub has taken on the headline sponsorship of

The Cornwall Business Show, Royal Cornwall Events Centre, March 12 the event this year. Stu Anderson, operations director of the Growth and Skills Hubs, says: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the Cornwall Business Show again this year. It’s a great way for our team to meet hundreds of new and existing local businesses and we’ll be there to talk about how we can help them find the right support and training opportunities to make their business work smarter and thrive.”

An ideal opportunity for businesses hoping to explore the business support options available to them

Education and training is important for many businesses and there will be plenty of organisations offering advice and opportunities on training across the board, from Cornwall’s biggest providers of tertiary education in colleges and in the workplace, to small, independent providers. Another sector with a strong showing will be finance, with specialists in accountancy, payroll, wealth management, and accountancy software packages, as well as independent financial advisors, all taking part. Motor dealers are always in attendance at the Cornwall Business Show, with their latest vehicles and deals available. The range of services required by visitors to the show covers the entire spectrum – some of them want to buy fleets of commercial vehicles,

28 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

BUSINESS

SHOW

SEMINAR SCHEDULE 10am Taurus Communications Communicate like your competitors aren’t

1pm Cornish Marketing Consultancy Use the power of story to sell more

Delivered by an industry expert, this talk discusses the benefits of modern Unified Communications (UC) as a business collaboration tool, helping you drive service and growth in your organisation.

11am Lifestyle Doc Business and Wellbeing - prioritising both bottom lines

Having a business in Cornwall might be envied by those north of the Tamar, but is your enterprise really benefitting from the Cornish lifestyle? Whether you are a fancy-dan corporate or a hard-pushed SME, life’s too short not to make wellbeing work for you, your team and your profits.

It’s time to discover the seven secrets of Hollywood storytelling - a proven framework to clarify your communication and get better results. Companies that clarify their story, win in the marketplace.

2pm SICIOS - SUPPORTED INTERNSHIPS FOR CORNWALL & THE ISLES OF SCILLY Accessible Employment and Inclusive Recruitment

This short seminar introduces some of the ideas and practices that ensures your business can continue to attract and retain quality employees, benefit your ‘bottom line’, improve reputation, and raise your customer service.

12pm CIOS Skills Hub Get Productive by Closing your Skills Gaps

3pm Spaceport Cornwall Maximising the Benefits for Cornwall

The right skills are the key to a productive and successful business performance. We’ll show what skills are holding back businesses like yours in Cornwall, how to understand your own organisations training and development needs, and most importantly what to do about it.

others are more interested in knowing who they can work with to organise short-term leases or hire vehicles. The motor trade will this year be represented by Carrs Volkswagen, West End Motors, Vospers and the Truro Motor Company The 2020 show will once again recognise the importance of social enterprises and charities in the region and give them a prominent networking platform to make new connections. There will be a quality café and networking area, featuring a range of food vendors to keep everybody well fed and watered throughout the day.

Spaceport Cornwall is go. With the £20m funding package secured and Virgin Orbit mobilising to the UK, 2021 will see Europe’s first licenced Horizontal Spaceport and first ever orbital launch from the UK. How can we use the power of space to maximise the benefit to Cornwall?

“I’m confident it will again prove worthwhile for those exhibiting and visiting the show; a lot ideas being shared and people will enjoy a very productive day out of the office.”

To find out full information about the Cornwall Business Show please visit www.cornwallbuisnessshow.co.uk and keep up to date via its social media accounts.

There will be seminars on the hour, every hour starting from 10am, with a series of presentations and Q&A sessions led by people who are experts in their fields. Attending the show is free of charge, although it is recommended that visitors register in advance at so they can jump any queues on the day. The show’s MD, Andrew Weaver, says: “Now in its ninth year the show has established itself as the largest in the county and only event of its kind in the south west in the first half of the year. “It represents a remarkable opportunity for networking and to get so many people from the Cornish and wider regional business community under one roof is a joy to be part of.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 29

GROWTH

PROGRAMME

Despite having a high share of households with no vehicles, the number of cars on the Isles of Scilly remains relatively high in relation to the tiny adopted road network of under ten miles. In a bid to change behaviour away from car ownership and encourage the uptake of electric vehicles, the Council of the Isles of Scilly is delivering the GO-EV project as part of the Smart Islands programme. The project will see a network of 27 electric vehicle charging points installed across all five inhabited islands during 2020, providing a solid infrastructure of electricity grid network connections to support the transition to electric vehicles. Ten charging points will be dedicated to a

30 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

car share scheme offering vehicles for hire on an hourly basis by residents, businesses and visiting businesses on the Isles of Scilly. Drivers will be able to use a smartphone app to search for and book available vehicles that will be located at key locations around the islands. Once booked, the smartphone app will also be used to unlock the vehicles and manage the booking. A mixture of cars, commercial panel vans and combi vans with additional seats will provide a fleet to suit a variety of use cases from taking rubbish to the tip to school runs. The remaining chargers will be for general use by those wishing to purchase their own electric vehicles. As part of the innovation side of the project, the vehicles from the car share will become part of the electricity network on Scilly,

capable of discharging the energy from their batteries to optimise balancing of the grid. Known as vehicle-to-grid bi-directional charging or V2G for short, the project will help the rest of the UK understand how this type of technology might become part of the electricity grid of the future. The car share vehicles will also be housed under solar canopies allowing the project to test the optimisation of direct charging of electric vehicles from solar photovoltaic panels. Jim Wrigley, Isles of Scilly Community Venture and GO-EV project manager, says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are working hard to deliver a scheme on Scilly that will have a lasting positive legacy for the local community as well as deliver innovation that will benefit the electricity grid of the future. The car share scheme that will

GROWTH

Electric

Dreams

PROGRAMME

How the Smart Islands project on Scilly is supporting the transition to electric vehicles

PHOTO: THE FIRST ‘V2G’ CHARGER IN ST MARY’S, BEING TESTED BY JIM WRIGLEY WITH THE LOCAL POLICE VEHICLE

result from the project will provide the local community with a real low-carbon choice to owning their own vehicle and will compliment other modes of transport.” Following engagement with the community, the project is also now focussed on delivering an electric community bus and a network of electric cargo bikes for hire alongside the car share scheme. The aim is to get as many people as possible walking and cycling with the provision of a bus service as a second option and the car share providing a full complement of mobility options. Two multi-modal hubs at the airport and main ferry quay on St Mary’s will allow for onward travel at these locations.

lead member for environment and climate change, says: “On Scilly, as with the rest of the country, we need to make a step change in personal transport in order to rapidly reduce our carbon emissions. Walking, cycling and electric vehicles will need to become the norm and this project is key in starting to change behaviours and giving people genuinely better transport options.” Glenn Caplin, Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership chief executive, adds: “This project is pioneering a smart energy

system that will cut costs and emissions as part of a more sustainable, low carbon economy on the islands. What we learn on Scilly could have global implications for the smart energy systems of the future.” The GO-EV project is being funded by the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership with £606k from the Government’s Local Growth Fund and £2.4 million from the European Regional Development Fund, as part of the Smart Islands programme.

Jonathan Smith, Council of the Isles of Scilly’s

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 31

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT... LOIS WILD ST PETROCS Business Cornwall is a fantastic publication which keeps us informed of all the news of the Cornish business community while celebrating this vibrant and diverse sector. It provides us with a place to connect and engage with other businesses in the county in a meaningful way. The professional and personable team actively seek further engagement opportunities and connect people and ideas, which is greatly appreciated.

Business Cornwall has a range of effective platforms to communicate your business marketing objectives effectively. For more information, please contact Caroline Carter on 01209 718688 or caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk

Allergens – The hidden killer on your plate? Food businesses have a number of legal requirements relating to allergens. The tragic death of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse has led to the introduction of “Natasha’s Law” and with the Food Standards Agency stating that around ten people a year die from food induced anaphylaxis both businesses and consumers need to be aware of what happens when adequate control measures are not in place. Many of those who die or suffer near miss reactions had no idea that they were putting themselves at risk. Those who are aware of the risks can find the day-to-day unpredictability of living with a food allergy stressful and eating out can be an experience too risky to take. To help businesses promote their good allergy practices, and give those consumers who suffer from a food allergy a mark of assurance to help them to have confidence

32 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

in eating out, Cornwall Council’s Business Regulatory Support team has developed a support package that helps to educate businesses and encourages them to work with the regulators to ensure that they are following best practice: Allergens Direct, which can help with practical procedures and policies to help prevent providing misinformation, cross contamination and safeguard against a potentially fatal incident. If business owners implement the recommendations, the business will be certified ’Allergy Aware’ and given a certificate to display, giving customers and potential customers confidence that the business values their safety. For business owners who wish to ensure all their staff

are up to date with legislation and best practice the Business Regulatory Support team are running a series of training days throughout the county. These give staff the chance to engage with Food Hygiene and Trading Standards officers ask questions and increase their allergens knowledge.

For more information please visit www.businessregulatorysupport.co.uk/allergens

www.sapiencehr.co.uk

PEOPLE

SPONSORED BY St Austell Brewery has appointed Andrew Turner to the newly-created role of managing director of beer and brands. Turner, currently trading director with Heineken UK, will lead the company’s own beer and wholesale drinks business. Chief executive, Kevin Georgel, said: “I am delighted that Andy will be joining St Austell Brewery. With almost 20 years’ experience and success gained within Heineken UK, he brings the ideal experience, talents and personality to compliment the skills of the existing team, and to lead our beer and

SENIOR BREWERY APPOINTMENT

SOLICITOR APPRENTICE

ON THE MOVE

brands division into its next exciting chapter.” The brewery has also appointed a new quality manager – Paola Leather. Leather – who previously worked in St Austell Brewery’s quality team between 2005 and 2011 – is one of the UK’s most experienced female brewers. In the past nine years, she has worked as Skinner’s head brewer, head of brewing services at Campden BRI and brewing production manager at Brains in Cardiff. She was born and grew up in the Colombian capital of Bogota. While living in South America, she worked in quality for a chocolate company and a coffee federation. She is also director of her own best-selling rum business. Rathlee golden barrel aged rum is distilled in Latin America and blended with Cornish water.

The Cornwall Hotel & Spa has welcomed a new head chef. Kai Taylor, who joins the team following a move from Gloucestershire, earned his first head chef position at just 21, achieving five AA rosettes in his first two years.

Stephens Scown has become one of the first law firms in Cornwall to employ a solicitor apprentice.

He went on to hold the title of executive chef at hotels including The Bristol and Stanton Manor and most recently helped launch the Stables Restaurant in Chipping Sodbury.

Stephens Scown has several apprentices studying towards qualifications in HR, digital marketing and legal, but Lexie Williams is the first solicitor apprentice. She joined the firm’s corporate Cornwall team in December and began her solicitor apprenticeship with the University of Law in January.

“We’re delighted to have Kai on board,” added general manager Rebecca Coonan. “Having honed his skills abroad and with some fantastic establishments and experience under his belt he’s a great addition to the team. His style of cooking is a perfect match for the hotel’s dining ethos, which is first and foremost relaxed, inviting and sociable.”

This new apprenticeship will run for seven years, during which time Wiliams will be combining legal work and university-set work to complete a law degree and a training contract. Stephens Scown managing partner Richard Baker is proud of the firm’s apprentices, both in terms of their development and what they bring to the firm: He said: “We know from experience how valuable apprenticeships are to the firm, as all our apprentices have brought in fresh ideas and proven themselves as assets, while constantly improving through their training and learning.”

NEW HEAD CHEF

FRENCH DIRECTOR Charles French & Co has appointed a new director. Nicola Harrison, a Fellow of the Chartered

Institute of Legal Executives, joined the firm seven years ago and has more than 14 years’ experience within the residential property sector. Established in 2007, Charles French & Co began with one office and two staff and has since grown to four offices; St. Austell, Truro, Newquay and Mevagissey and 33 staff. BUSINESS CORNWALL | 33

FOOD

& DRINK

WHYTE ON BOARD Mike and Sue Bearcroft from The Cornish Spirits Company, who produce Land of Saints Gin, have a appointed a new shareholder and financial director as part of their growth plans. Laura Whyte, who is also MD of Whyfield Accountants and the financial director of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, has come on board with the couple to drive the business forward. Mike Bearcroft said: “Laura has a wealth of experience in business growth and has been working alongside us since the company started so making the appointment official felt like the right step.”

PHOENIX FROM THE FLAMES Work on the refurbishment of the restaurant Amélies, in Porthleven, is underway following a kitchen fire last year. Scheduled to re-open in late spring, the new restaurant will feature a fresh interior “light and airy with Mediterranean influences”, designed by local firm Boex, and new lunch and evening menus.

Sam Sheffield-Dunstan, the owner of Amélies, said: “Damage to the property was more extensive than initially thought, and surveys, insurance claims, structural work, and design all had to take place before we could even start on the refurbishment.

Amélies, overlooking Porthleven Harbour, was forced to close after a fire took hold last October. The fire caused considerable damage to the kitchen and first floor toilets,

“It has been a long process, however, it has also been a time to reflect on Amélies and how we want to take it forward for the next decade.”

JOLLY GOOD! Jolly’s Drinks has officially opened its new home on the Saltash Business Park Jolly’s products include soft drinks such as Pink Lemonade, Ginger Beer, Cola and a new Cornish Tonic Water – all made with fresh Cornish water from a spring which was discovered 40 metres below the new unit.

MD, Cheryl Ingram, said: “Saltash is the perfect location for our new facility in Cornwall. Not only thanks to the clear Cornish spring which runs underneath the unit, but also because of the easy transport links which aid the distribution of our products. “With a new canning line planned for this year, customers are already pre-ordering our range of canned drinks in order to be the first to stock these fantastic flavours.”

HEALEYS LAUNCHES RATTLER GIN The company behind one of Cornwall’s most popular drinks brands has produced its own take on traditional gin. Healeys, which is best known for its iconic Rattler Cornish Cloudy Cyder, has now created Rattler Gin. Made completely 34 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

and structural damage to the roof as well as smoke contamination within the restaurant.

from scratch at Healeys Cyder Farm, using the same apples that make Rattler – Rattler Gin is “a refreshing take on traditional gin and a pink gin, infused with raspberries for a fruity twist”.

Commercial director, Jo Healey, said: “True to our roots this isn’t just another gin. We have Cornwall’s oldest distillery onsite and have won multiple awards for our brandy and whiskies, so we were confident we could create something special.” Although this is Healeys’ first gin, it is no stranger to producing spirits and 2020 marks two decades of distilling at the farm; the anniversary of its first brandy. The farm has also been responsible in creating England’s oldest whiskey. The Rattler spirits range will be growing throughout the year, with the launch of Rattler Rum due at Easter.

REMEMBERING A LEGENDARY BREWER Condolences have been pouring for Driftwood Spars Brewery’s head brewer Peter Martin who died recently following a short illness. Peter Martin, AKA Pete the Brewer and Fluffy Pete, was a legend both in the local community and in the international world of craft brewing. He will be sorely missed by all, including his partner Sarah and his three siblings - Irene, Andrew, and Isabel. His colleagues and friends at The Driftwood Spars, the independent pub which owns the brewery, were devastated by the loss, describing him as “kind-hearted, hardworking, pioneering, intelligent, creative and fun, someone who will be hugely missed”. Pete won over 30 major awards, the most significant being Supreme Champion Winter Ale of Great Britain in 2012 with Alfie’s Revenge; since then two more beers have been runnersup for Champion Beer of Britain - Lou’s Brew in 2018 and Blackheads Mild in 2019. Driftwood landlady Louise Treseder has promised that Pete’s extraordinary legacy will be upheld with the future appointment of a new head brewer. She said: “Pete would have wanted the brewery to continue in the same vein - with a pioneering spirit and a fierce independence, crafting beers people gather together to share and enjoy. That was his life and passion and I expect I’ll hear his voice in my head, sharing his beer knowledge, for many years yet!”

Becoming the

best

ADVERTORIAL

TICKETS REFUNDED ON ATTENDANCE*

Hospitality is all about people. But it starts with your people. staff a voice and responsibility, resulting in a more up-skilled and motivated workforce. “I don’t have time for command and control leadership, which is all tell and no ask. I enjoy a collaborative approach that involves drawing out of others and solving problems together.” Putting ideas out there and “sowing seeds in a collaborative environment”, as he puts it, helping shape big ideas.

Behind every great customer experience lies an even greater group of people. And this is especially true in the hospitality industry, where employees are often directly delivering the customer experience and are therefore instrumental to business success. But this sector often struggles with a very distinct set of challenges: seasonal peaks and troughs, attracting and retaining staff, developing, motivating and engaging teams. Some businesses have handled this extraordinarily well. Tom Ross from the highly successful Pig Hotel Group has spoken openly about the importance of recruiting staff with a passion and interest for the wider business, and of offering development opportunities including kitchen apprenticeships and an innovative internal entrepreneur programme. “We take training really seriously and focus on what we call craft skills,” he explains. “The business wants someone who isn’t only a waiter, but wants to know about food, wine and the art of service – not just writing an order down and bringing out plates.” The luxury Headland Hotel has grown its headcount fast, which can present challenges. MD Darryl Reburn’s leadership style is all about listening, engaging and giving

June Donnery from Haven Perran Sands knows the challenges of seasonal recruitment only too well. Her attitude-based approach to recruitment, and culture of positivity and trust, has led to staff wanting to return year after year. “We allow our teams to fail and succeed,” she says. “We’re creating a culture where people are not frightened to talk about what didn’t go well. We want our people to look forward to customer feedback whether it’s good or bad. Because feedback is the breakfast of champions.”

SERVING UP INDUSTRY INSIGHTS AND EXPERTISE

There will also be a focus on how assessing and understanding employees’ personalities, skills and aspirations can positively impact recruitment and retention. Leadership well-being is also on the agenda. After all, looking after yourself and managing your time effectively can have a huge impact on the culture and performance of the whole business. And if your business employs a lot of Generation Z employees, you’ll learn how to engage and communicate effectively with this young, digital savvy generation. HOSPITALITY MASTERCLASS SERIES Timing: 09:45 - 14:45 • People & Team Masterclass: Wednesday 18 March, The Harbour Hotel, Padstow • Digital Readiness Masterclass: Tuesday 5 May, The Alverton, Truro • Sales & Growth Masterclass: Tuesday 2 June, Heartlands, Redruth TICKET INFORMATION

The next in the series of Be the Business’ highly acclaimed, free-to-attend Hospitality Masterclasses*, focuses on People and Team. With hospitality industry leaders addressing arguably some of the most difficult and pressing issues business owners face, this is a practical workshop where delegates will leave inspired and empowered to step up their people development and performance strategies.

Tickets cost £25 (inc £2.35 booking fee). Upon attendance and completion of an evaluation survey, £22.65 will be refunded*. Refreshments and a networking lunch are included.

The masterclass will explore the environment, culture and leadership that fosters high performing workforces. Sector experts will look at the importance of embedding learning and development into business practice and how this can be done through online tools.

Be the Business is an independent, non-profit making organisation providing free and subsidised resources, events and learning opportunities to help small / medium sized businesses become more competitive. For more information visit bethebusiness.com

Book your place at www.bethebusiness.com/masterclass Be the Business

* For more ticketing information, please visit bethebusiness.com/masterclass BUSINESS CORNWALL | 35

CREATIVE

AND DIGITAL

SPONSORED BY

A TOTAL WIN

Promotional merchandise company Fluid Branding has chosen the new Enterprise Space for Advanced Manufacturing (ESAM) at its headquarters.

Knights Media & Public Relations (Knights MPR) has secured a major contract for two business divisions of one of largest energy companies in the world.

FLUID MOVEMENT The business was founded in Cornwall but now has seven UK offices, together with operations in Dublin, Amsterdam, Malta and China, and two partnership ventures in the US. Clients include Google, Virgin, Sky and American Airlines. With an aspiration to continue to grow 20% year-on-year, the company is moving its Cornwall team of more than 50 staff from its existing base in St Austell, to 4,000 sq ft of modern offices at ESAM. ESAM is the first phase of the new Carluddon

www.digitalpeninsula.org

Technology Park and a centrepiece of the West Carclaze Garden Village, a multi-millionpound regeneration project taking place in mid Cornwall. MD Miles Lovegrove said: “We are delighted to be reaffirming our commitment to Cornwall and the St Austell Area - where it all started for us - by investing in this important move to new headquarters at ESAM. It is a fantastic, landmark building in an inspirational location with the space for us to grow and think.”

The agency will provide public relations and communications expertise globally for Total Lubmarine and Total Marine Fuels Global Solutions, which are part of the French multinational oil and gas company, Total Group. Founder and CEO, Jason Knights, said: “We are delighted to be selected by Total Lubrifiants and thrilled to have secured a contract for two business divisions of the energy major that are making a big difference to the shipping and energy industries for cleaner and sustainable marine lubricants and fuels.”

ABG IN MANCHESTER SOLVE JOINS B CORP CREW Solve Web Media has become the latest Cornish business to gain B Corp Certification. There are more than 3,000 B Corps across the world but only seven in Cornwall. By becoming a B Corp, the Newquay-based SEO company is “committed to never put profit ahead of partners, people or planet”. Solve is a Living Wage Employer and supports several charities and lead community development projects. It is also making efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the Internet, which generates a billion tonnes of greenhouse gases every year. Solve powers its office and web hosting servers with renewable energy and plants at least 100 carbon-eating trees each month. Lawrence Harmer, Solve’s founder, said: “We’re setting an example that businesses can be financially sustainable while being sustainable for people and the planet too.”

36 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Heaton Park in Manchester covers an area of over 600 acres and includes the grounds of the neoclassical 18th century country house, Heaton Hall.

visitor guides. And it was discovered that the park was large for visitors, that large areas were not being used.

Working closely with the Heaton Park team and Manchester City Council, ABG was tasked with reviewing the current maps and

ABG created a zoned map by colour, so people could better identify what each area of the park had to offer.

Truro-based creative agency Wolf Rock has just completed two food and drink branding campaigns.

“Our brief was to carry out a complete re-brand that would attract attention on shelves and behind bars,” said Downie. “Understanding our client’s strategy and growth aspirations are key to the work we do, so we spent time looking at their target market, new audiences and what is likely to encourage those people to buy. The next stage was to give the packaging a cohesive, stand out appearance.”

Truro-based ABG Design has just completed a new maps and guides project for one of the biggest municipal parks in Europe.

The first was for Saltash-based Jolly’s Drinks – Cornwall’s oldest soft drink manufacturer. The company is launching a range of new canned soft drinks, alongside its post mix products, and Wolf Rock MD Jo Downie and her team were called in to give the branding a fresh, revitalised look.

The same approach was used when chocolatier Josh Parker asked Wolf Rock to devise a brand for his company – Josh’s Chocolate – that would represent the “never-to-be-forgotten” experience he wanted for his chocolate. “We’re really pleased with the end result,” said Downie, “and the chocolate is excellent too!”

BRANDING WITH FLAVOUR

NEWS

SPONSORED BY

#FSBCONNECT

WASSON IN MARCH? First off, we will be running our stand at the three-day (March 3-5) Expowest exhibition at the Royal Cornwall Showground in Wadebridge. Aimed at the catering, hospitality and tourism sector this is a really interesting event that you can actually taste and you will be surprised who you meet. Suppliers of the most amazing produce, service, accommodation and help and advice from people like us. We’d love to see you there, it’s free and you may find a new supplier or customer, whatever your sector. Then, the jewel in our spring crown is the FSB Women In Confidence Conference, on March 6. We are indebted to our lovely sponsors for their support; Seetec Pluss – ‘Empowering people in work, life and wellbeing’, The Growth Hub – ‘Help for YOUR Business’,

Outset – ‘Award-winning start-up support’ and Sapience HR – ‘Helping businesses realise the true value of their people’. We are also excited and honoured to hear from speakers Karina Rickards (Cornishware), Sandra Garlick MBE (Women in Enterprise Taskforce), Frances Brennan (Seetec Pluss), Laura Whyte (Whyfield), Kirsty Miles-Musgrave (Cornwall & IoS Growth & Skills Hub). If you want to try and nab a last minute place email Vanessa.gale@fsb.org.uk And last but not least, the Cornwall Business Show is at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre on March 12 and brings together the region’s most dynamic and ambitious businesses, all under one roof. And, of course, we will be there with our stand and our friendly team to answer your questions and offer our usual brand of help, advice and support.

BALANCING THE BOOKS According to new figures from FSB’s full Q4 2019 SBI report, four in ten (37%) small businesses that made successful finance applications last quarter used the sums raised to manage cashflow rather than invest in their firms. Fewer than one in four (23%) used finance to update equipment, while even smaller proportions used funds for expansion of their business (16%) or recruitment (2%). Previous FSB research shows that the UK late payment crisis leads to the closure of 50,000 small businesses a year at a cost of £2.5 billion to the economy. The latest figures from Pay UK show that the balance of outstanding late payments almost doubled to £23.4 billion in 2019. FSB National Chairman Mike Cherry said: “If this Government wants to leave a lasting legacy amongst small businesses, it has to make ending the UK’s late payment crisis a top priority.

PRE-BUDGET WAKEUP? The Office for National Statistics has revealed that the UK’s GDP for Q4 in 2019 was flat at 0%. Reacting to this news, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has said that small firms right across the country will be looking to the upcoming Budget as a chance to turn things around and create a pro-business environment that encourages growth and success. For too long, small firms have been in the doldrums with business confidence in negative territory for the entirety of 2019. This negative confidence has seen small firms hold back on investments, exports and hiring intentions. Years of political uncertainty have an impact on productivity, and that’s evident in these most recent figures.

Ann Vandermeulen, FSB Cornwall said: “This Government must put the measures in place that small firms need to thrive: a pro-business free trade agreement with the EU and nations beyond, an immigration system that works for firms all sizes and an end to the debilitating impact of late payments, which almost doubled to £20 billion last year. “The Budget this month is a chance for the Chancellor to illustrate support for small firms that was committed to during the general election campaign. It’s vital that the cost of doing business, specifically when it comes to business rates protecting incentives to grow, and accelerating delivery of the infrastructure commitments outlined by the Prime Minister are all implemented without delay.”

“It’s troubling that so many external finance applications are driven by cashflow concerns. This really shouldn’t be the case – you wouldn’t dream of doing your weekly shop and telling the cashier that you’ll pay for it in 100 days, but corporations take this approach to small businesses in droves.”

FSB Offer for Business Cornwall Magazine Readers at www.fsb.org.uk/join If you want to join FSB after reading this page then please quote BCM30 when you join and save £30!

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 37

TOURISM

NEWS

MOST IMPROVED HOTEL The Hotel Bristol in Newquay was named ‘Most Improved Hotel’ at Best Western’s 42nd Annual Members Conference in Edinburgh. The Most Improved Hotel is decided based on the Guest Experience Score (GES), which is a score Best Western devises from a combination of social media reviews, Trip Advisor scores and the Medallia survey. Hotel director, Howard Young said: “We were really pleased to be recognised for our guest reviews. Integral to our success is our strong ethic of teamwork and this award from the industry heavyweight Best Western reflects the hard graft that our amazing and loyal team put in every day to ensure each and every guest has a wonderful experience with us.”

BEST OF THE SOUTH WEST The best of the south west was celebrating last month at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards, held amidst a stunning light show in Exeter Cathedral. After a record year for the tourism awards it was fitting for the annual celebration to return to the splendour of Exeter Cathedral to recognise the region’s most excellent tourism businesses.

38 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

SPONSORED BY

www.visitcornwall.com

‘SHOCK’ AS HOTEL CLOSES The Mount Haven Hotel in Marazion will not be reopening this year and has closed until further notice. Since being acquired by St Aubyn Estates four year ago, the hotel has undergone extensive renovation and development work and was named Best Hotel in the 2020 Trencherman’s Awards. It has been closed this winter for further scheduled improvements and it was during this latest planned work that it discovered “a number of unforeseen and previously unknown issues with the building”. In a statement, the hotel said: “At this stage we are not aware of the extent of work that

will be required. Regretfully, for our many guests, and our team, we will therefore be closed for the remainder of 2020 and until further notice.” James and Mary St Levan added: “This setback has come as a complete shock and is heartbreaking for our team, and disappointing for our guests, given all the support, effort, and dedication that everyone involved with the Mount Haven has put into the hotel.”

With 374 guests booked, it was the biggest annual regional gathering of south west tourism businesses, with 107 different awards presented following a rigorous judging process in which a record 773 entries were considered.

Top performers in matching categories will now go on to be nominated for the national VisitEngland Awards, with the potential to become national winners in summer 2020.

A number of Cornish and Isles of Scilly businesses returned home with Gold awards, namely The Park Cornwall (Holiday Park of the Year), Bude Canoe Experience (Learning Experience of the Year), Glynn Barton Cottages (Self Catering Accommodation of the Year), and Boconnoc (Wedding Venue of the Year).

Awards organiser, Robin Barker of Services for Tourism, said: “I never cease to be amazed by the innovation, dedication and imagination of our tourism businesses – not to mention their sheer hard work. It’s humbling to be part of this and I’d like to add my congratulations to all the winners.”

CHAMBER

SPONSORED BY

cornwallchamber.co.uk

TRANSITION PERIOD The UK formally left the European Union at 11pm on Friday, January 31 - so what’s changed since then? Initially, not much. The UK immediately entered an 11-month transition period during which the country will no longer be a member state but will still be subject to EU rules and regulations. While the UK and EU negotiate additional arrangements, the current rules on trade, travel, and business for the UK and EU will continue to apply. Freedom of movement will also continue to apply during the transition, so UK nationals will still be able to move and live in the EU as they currently do and vice-versa. Europeans will have the same rights and status as before. This also means that there will be no change to the documents they need to prove their rights to rent or work. European citizens who wish to stay in the UK after the transition period may need to apply for settled status to continue living in the UK from 2021. You will be able to apply up until June 2021. Cornwall Council has been preparing for different Brexit scenarios since the referendum result – including preparing for a possible ‘no deal’ outcome. Working alongside partners across the south west, the Council will continue to review its arrangements in 2020 to ensure it remains prepared. The funding that Cornwall currently receives from the EU’s 2014-2020 Budget is secured to the end of 2023.

NEWS

BUSY YEAR AHEAD This year promises to be an exciting year for Made in Cornwall. Last month we went to Birmingham where we visited the NEC where our members were exhibiting at Spring Fair 2020 in front of thousands of national and international buyers, purchasers and retailers. We gave them brand support and media coverage to ensure they reach as wide as audience as possible to maximise their sales and orders. As a result of this fair, one of our members has just signed a contract with a major high street retailer, a fantastic achievement for a Made in Cornwall business. At the end of February we visited the Scillies for the Supply Scilly event to promote Made in Cornwall food and drink producers to the islands. We have an Easter, Summer and Christmas Fair planned on Lemon Quay in Truro for which bookings are now available. We are also launching our first e-commerce offerings for members through our business partners which will take the brand to a global stage. Phase one of this will be a partnership with the Cornish Food Box Company. We are also just about to launch, in conjunction with First Kernow, our Made in Cornwall Bus! A double decker has been painted with the Made in Cornwall branding and is about to make its way all around the county promoting the scheme and will be used by us for events, occasions and marketing opportunities, as well as trips to some of our gin distillers!

And to prove that ‘looking like the back end of a bus’ isn’t a bad thing, the entire rear of the double decker is advertising Cornwall Hospice Cares’ world record attempt at the most cream teas eaten in one place this June! Cornwall Hospice Care has become the official adopted charity of Made in Cornwall this year and we are absolutely delighted to be able to support them in their quest to get in the Guinness Book of Records. The membership is increasing almost daily and there has never been a better time to become a member of the Made in Cornwall Scheme with membership fees starting at just £59 plus VAT for a limited only. So if you are a business that is authentically made, produced, or offering a service that is Cornish, then email hello@madeincornwall.org.uk for an application form.

MADE IN CORNWALL BREAKFAST

Ralph Bunche, head of the Cornwall Brussels Office, said: “Some funding may continue depending on whether the UK decides to join some EU programmes, such as those that encourage research and innovation and cross-border collaboration. “The UK government has consistently stated that Cohesion funding will be replaced via a UK Shared Prosperity Fund.” Applicants in Cornwall can continue to bid for EU funding throughout 2020. Any awards made in 2020 will be guaranteed for the duration of the project – up to three years. www.gov.uk/transition

Made in Cornwall members got together at the Jubilee Wharf in Penryn last month.

of being carbon neutral as long ago as 2006 by the owner and creator, Andrew Marston.

Everyone enjoyed a Cornish breakfast at the Muddy Beach Café, where they were given the story of the wharf and its groundbreaking vision

They then enjoyed a tour of Beautifully Handcrafted’s new workshops and Maya Ullmans Jewellery workshop and gallery.

Email: hello@corwallchamber.co.uk Call: 01209 216006 Online: www.cornwallchamber.co.uk BUSINESS CORNWALL | 39

EDUCATION

AND TRAINING

SPONSORED BY

www.truro-penwith.ac.uk

OUTSTANDING CALLYWITH

RICK STEIN APPROVAL

Rick Stein has praised the work of his latest group of Truro and Penwith College apprentices after sampling their cooking at a Talk and Taste event held last month to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week. The apprentices, who started their training in September at various restaurants within the Rick Stein Group, welcomed Stein to his Cookery School in Padstow where they prepared and served their favourite dishes from his new book; Rick Stein’s Secret France. Senior managers and head chefs from Truro and Penwith College and Rick Stein Group also joined the event, tasting the various dishes and talking to apprentices about their experience to date. “When we are looking for apprentices, we look for enthusiasm above anything else and I’ve seen that today,” said Stein. “With every dish I’ve tried, the apprentices are just so into it and hoping I’ll enjoy everything they’ve made. That’s what being a chef is; having a passion for cooking things that people enjoy and taking any feedback on board so you can improve.”

The latest Ofsted report has rated Callywith College as Grade 1 - Outstanding in every category. Seven Ofsted inspectors spent three days in January scrutinising every aspect of the college’s work, analysing data and interviewing hundreds of stakeholders “Since the opening of Callywith College in September 2017”, the reports said, “leaders, managers and staff have worked tirelessly to create a culture of high expectations for all.” Principal Jon Grey said: “Since opening Callywith College we have been privileged to work with so many truly inspirational young people.

“This fantastic report follows on the heels of their achievements and the college’s exceptional performance in our first ever showing in the Department for Education attainment tables. I am delighted for all my colleagues that their collective brilliance and dedicated hard work has been recognised so clearly in this report.” David Walrond, Callywith’s chair of trustees and principal at Truro and Penwith College, added: “There was huge belief and determination among colleagues from the start of the Callywith project that something special really could be delivered and was needed. I am delighted that inspectors praised the ‘clear and ambitious vision for the college’.”

Tony Duce, chef lecturer at the college added: “The quality of the apprentices’ food today has been incredible, especially when you consider they only started their training in September and taking recipes from the new book means they haven’t had long to practice!”

LEADING THE TECH REVOLUTION New courses in digital and information technologies are being offered with ten bursaries worth £1k each available to Cornish students. I Am Digital has launched a new scheme designed to provide a digital and information technology education to students, while giving them the opportunity to work with some of the most innovative companies in Cornwall’s growing tech community. “This is an exciting partnership between Cornwall College and Software Cornwall which is designed to help young people 40 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

enter the tech sector in a completely unique way,” said Dr Nathan Jeffery, head of Digital Academy. “Nationally, the UK industry is growing 2.6 times faster than the rest of the economy and the top three challenges for employers are access to talent, funding and the poor transport links. This is where I Am Digital has stepped forward with an exciting solution.”

The £1k bursary will be awarded to ten students who meet particular criteria and pass a chosen suite of additional learning activities. Toby Parkins from Software Cornwall said: “From an industry perspective, we’re not just looking for the right qualification; being work-ready is aided hugely by actual work experience and exposure to industry networks processes.”

The first step is wanting to do the right thing.

The second is knowing how to.

Practical support to help you manage health and disability in the workplace.

Visit cornwallbeacon.co.uk Making great places to work â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for everyone.

OPINION

JUST A THOUGHT

A NEW REALITY You’re probably reading this and wondering why on earth a project manager from the museum world has been given a slot in the Business Cornwall magazine – and what does she know about immersive technology and its benefits for your business? I’d forgive you. Traditionally, museums have been slow at adapting to change and embracing new technologies. But five museums in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have been working with Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership, Cornwall Museums Partnership, and Falmouth University – home to the UK’s leading Games Academy – to create immersive experiences to boost their businesses. And we think we’re learning a thing or two about how immersive technology can enhance all Cornish businesses over the next decade.

your business, and a whole host of leading companies working on this right here in Cornwall. The biggest mistake you can make is to start with the type of tech you want. Instead, begin as you would with any business proposal – what do you want to achieve? Perhaps your normal marketing channels are no longer standing out from the crowd, or you want to make your business more accessible to a wider audience. Then work backwards with immersive technology in mind, to discover how it might be able to help you achieve this goal. We’ve been taking a user-centred design approach at the museums, to ascertain how our visitors will engage with the stories we want to tell and the technology available, to help shape the experiences we will create.This has meant that we’ve been able to make informed decisions on marketing messages, operational management, and accessibility considerations. But it has taken time and commitment, to engage people and build their expectations into our development.

We think we’re learning a thing or two about how immersive technology can enhance all Cornish businesses over the next decade

With the technology rapidly advancing and changing, it can feel overwhelming knowing which type of immersive technology might be right for your business. As you face the endless acronyms of VR, AR, MR, XR – where do you begin? But the exciting thing is that there are a range of solutions that can boost 42 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

What has made it easier is collaboration. We started the project co-designing with the university and museums and as we’ve

Amy Shakespeare, community project manager at Cornwall Museums Partnership, explains what immersive technology can do for your business progressed, we’ve developed relationships with local communities as well as local businesses working in this area. Software Cornwall has provided a great network for us, we’ve been involved with the Digital Skills Partnership, and many others have offered their skills and expertise to support the development of immersive technology in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. You might be thinking that this all sounds interesting, but very expensive. As with any kind of technology, as it advances, it is coming down in price. And the different immersive technologies come with varying starting costs. Low cost solutions include; creating a 3D tour of your building, a chatbot to talk to your clients online, and apps that allow you to create branded filters for Instagram and Snapchat. If you implement any of these technologies now – despite the low price tag – they can be incredibly effective. Most businesses aren’t currently aware of immersive technology, let alone harnessing its potential, so building it into your business plan can help you to stand out from the crowd. Thanks to the Coastal Communities Fund, we’re running free Immersive Tech Introductions skills sessions throughout the year across the Duchy. These are available to all Cornish businesses of any size. If you would like to learn more about a specific immersive technology, then do let us know so that we can tailor our sessions for you. Contact me at amy@cornwallmuseumspartnership.org.uk to find out more.

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BUSINESS CORNWALL | 43

CONNECTED

CORNWALL

SPONSORED BY

www.cioslep.co.uk

HEADLAND HOTEL EMPLOYEE AWARDS LEFT: TROY MARTIN (RISING STAR)

RIGHT: JODIE APPS (EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR)

RIGHT: HANNAH DOUGHERTY (UNSUNG HERO)

The Alverton in Truro was the venue for the annual Headland Employee Awards, where Jodie Apps was crowned employee of the year

SECOND FROM RIGHT: IONA KELLOW (TEAM LEADER OF THE YEAR)

CORNWALL TOURISM SUMMIT The tourism industry gathered at the Headland Hotel in Newquay for the annual Visit Cornwall Tourism Summit and heard from keynote speaker, the futurist Will Higham

VISIT CORNWALL CHIEF EXECUTIVE MALCOLM BELL

GUY CROSSLEY (CORNISH FARM HOLIDAYS)

44 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

CORNWALL

CONNECTED

CORNWALL BUSINESS AWARDS LAUNCH Finalists, past winners, sponsors and supporters gathered at the Pool Innovation Centre for the launch of 15th annual Cornwall Business Awards

DAVE BROWN (ST PETROCS)

KIRSTY MILES-MUSGRAVE (GROWTH & SKILLS HUB) AND MATT HARRINGTON (CORNWALL INNOVATION)

SIMON HEAP (RUGGED INTERACTIVE)

SUMMIT DELEGATES

KEYNOTE SPEAKER WILL HIGHAM

SAM WADSWORTH (BAD WOLF HORIZON) AND GARETH ALLEN (SOUNDVIEW)

TRACEY BOYNE (MYLOR SAILING SCHOOL) AND JUDITH BALL (MYLOR YACHT HARBOUR)

TOM ROACH (PKF FRANCIS CLARK)

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 45

CONNECTED

CORNWALL

SPONSORED BY

www.cioslep.co.uk

ATI CELEBRATION Businesses gathered at the Atlantic Hotel last month for a special Celebrating Innovation event hosted by Acceleration Through Innovation (ATI)

CELEBRATING INNOVATION GUESTS

MICHAEL ROBERTSON (ATI BUSINESS INNOVATION ADVISOR), JENNY NALDRETT (ATI INNOVATION CHAMPION)

ATI CLIENT ULTRAMED SHOWCASING ITS INNOVATIVE SOFTWARE MY PREOP

JOHN HUTCHINGS (ATI INNOVATION FUND MANAGER) NETWORKING WITH TONIQ LTD

THE CORNWALL LECTURE

One of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prominent digital experts, Tony Moretta, delivered the annual Cornwall Lecture, hosted by the University of Exeter and Stephens Scown at Truro Cathedral. There was also a panel discussion chaired by university vice chancellor, Professor Sir Steve Smith

TONY MORETTA (DIGITAL JERSEY)

46 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

PROFESSOR DAVID HOSKEN (UNIVERSITY OF EXETER, CORNWALL), TONY MORETTA (DIGITAL JERSEY), VERITY SLATER (STEPHENS SCOWN), PROFESSOR SIR STEVE SMITH (UNIVERSITY OF EXETER), LUCY CRANE (CORNISH LITHIUM), KATHRYN HEATH (STEPHENS SCOWN), DAN MCIVOR (SWANKY)

UPCOMING

EVENTS

MARCH

EVENTS 2

MARCH

LITTLE HARBOUR BUSINESS BREAKFAST

4 6

LINKEDIN LOCAL

CORNWALL BUSINESS SHOW

Little Harbour, St Austell

An opportunity to have a short tour of Little Harbour, meet other companies and hear from co-founder and CEO Eddie Farwell. bernadette.chambers@chsw.org.uk

3-5

EXPOWEST CORNWALL

Royal Cornwall Showground

If you’re involved in hospitality, catering and food & drink, then this is the one trade show you cannot afford to miss. expowestcornwall.co.uk

BODMIN BUSINESS BREAKFAST Westberry 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. em@sproullllp.co.uk

13 18

KING BUSINESS NETWORKING Victoria Inn, Threemilestone

The Kernow Independent Networking Group gathers over breakfast, fortnightly, at the Victoria Inn, Threemilestone, near Truro. king-networking.co.uk

FSB WOMEN CONFERENCE

Following the success of Murrell Associates autumn breakfast seminar at Epiphany House, the next breakfast seminar will specifically focus on the food and drink sector. murrellassociates.co.uk

Royal Cornwall Events Centre

The Cornwall Business Show is the largest, most inclusive B2B exhibition in Cornwall, bringing together a wide spectrum of industries and sectors, from small, start-up businesses to large, established companies. cornwallbusinessshow.co.uk

Norway Inn, Perranarworthal

With ambassador Gareth Looker. It will meet on the second Friday of each month. yourpartnerships.co.uk

FALMOUTH BUSINESS CLUB Carnon Inn, Carnon Downs

The Falmouth Business Club meets every other Thursday. Enjoy breakfast, coffee and networking with friendly local businesses. All welcome. falmouthbusinessclub.co.uk

Cornish Pirates RFC, Penzance

Join St Austell Brewery for a night of beer and cheese tasting on at the Cornish Pirates’ stadium in Penzance. Hosted by St Austell Brewery’s trade marketing manager – and Cornwall’s first beer sommelier – Marc Bishop. staustellbreweryshop.co.uk

GREENE KING IPA CHAMPIONSHIP RUGBY

Cornish Pirates v London Scottish

CORNWALL CHAMBER BREAKFAST

CORNWALL CONVERSATIONS

YOUR PARTNERSHIPS WELCOME DAY

Carnmarth Hotel, Newquay

Agri-tech Cornwall’s third Business Forum titled ‘bringing your product to market’. Alex Stevens from the NFU will be hosting and we will be hearing from Ali Hadavizadeh (Acorn Biz Solutions), Roxanne Martin (Barclays Eagle Labs) and Matt Silver (Innovate UK). eventbrite.co.uk

BEER AND CHEESE TASTING

Get the full experience at the Mennaye Field, Penzance, with Cornish Pirates’ matchday hospitality package – a perfect way to entertain clients and colleagues alike. robyn.ashurst@cornish-pirates.com

AGRI-TECH BUSINESS FORUM

Are you a hospitality and tourism leader or manager? If so, the masterclass series is for you. Led by sector experts, they are a chance to collaborate with other local hospitality businesses, learn from industry leaders and get access to inspirational success stories. bethebusiness.com/masterclass

YOUR PARTNERSHIPS

The Harbour Hotel, Padstow

An all-day event, the aim is to focus on personal development, inspiration and confidence for; women running small businesses, about to start their own business or playing a key role in a business. fsb.org.uk

Epiphany House, Truro

LinkedIn Local is delighted to be co-hosting with Your Partnerships Cornwall to bring you the next LinkedIn Local in Redruth, this time at the beautiful Penventon Park Hotel. yourpartnerships.co.uk

BE THE BUSINESS MASTERCLASS

The Falmouth Hotel

MURRELL ASSOCIATES SPRING SEMINAR

Penventon Hotel, Redruth

The Harbour Hotel, Padstow

This month’s Big Breakfast event will be held at the recently renovated Harbour Hotel in Padstow and will hear from inspirational speaker Bimini Love from Street Cramps. cornwallchamber.co.uk

Foot Anstey, Truro

Cornwall Conversations is the event that keeps influencers in Cornwall connected with the most exciting developments in the country. cornwallchamber.co.uk

Victoria Inn, Roche

This event is for current members and anyone that keeps hearing about the partnership but not sure what it is all about. Come see for free how it works. yourpartnerships.co.uk

For further details of these and more networking events visit businesscornwall.co.uk To publicise your event for free, email news@businesscornwall.co.uk BUSINESS CORNWALL | 47

THE LAST

WORD

SPONSORED BY

www.paddleandcocks.co.uk 01872 672072

Phoneta sales & marketing director

RICHARD WOODS

Businessman, had my first “business” at eight years of age.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB?

Collecting glasses at Twilight Zone, Redruth.

WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKETS?

IF YOU ONLY HAD £1 LEFT IN THE ENTIRE WORLD, WHAT WOULD YOU SPEND IT ON? A scratch card.

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

Mobile, wallet, car keys and a packet of mints.

My Wife and best mate. Without both these people I would not be the person I am today.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE BOOK?

WHAT’S YOUR #1 AMBITION?

Eddie Jones’ biography.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT? Penventon Park Hotel or Trevaskis.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?

Being given shares in Phoneta as at last I became my own boss.

WHAT DO YOU BEGRUDGE SPENDING MONEY ON?

To make sure my children understand the value of working, yet have the money to help them achieve whatever they need in life.

IF YOU COULD BE GOD FOR A DAY, WHAT MIRACLE WOULD YOU PERFORM? Stop global warming.

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

Nothing. I spend money too easily; you only come this way once.

The same as what I do now, I love my job and I want to build our business to secure employment in the area for years to come.

TELL ME A JOKE

DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE ADJECTIVES

Sorry, mine are not appropriate!

48 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Unconventional, Fun, Inspiring.

BARNETT PHOTO STUDIO

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG?

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Book a free skills review

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ARE YOU LOOKING TO HIRE A FINANCE PERSON?

The Significant Financial Employee grant from Access to Finance could help you attract financial expertise without breaking the bank. Eligible businesses can receive up to £10,000 for up to 20% of full salary costs for a role that meets the following criteria: · · · ·

Specific finance related project Up to a 12 month period Minimum salary level equivalent to £30K per annum Employee with degree or equivalent level

01872 300 386