Business Cornwall Mar 22

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

businesscornwall.co.uk

MARCH 2022 | ISSUE 155 | £3.95

READY FOR TAKE OFF...

INTRODUCING CORNWALL AIRPORT NEWQUAY’S NEW MD SAM O’DWYER

PROPERTY REVIEW

WE FOCUS ON CORNWALL’S PROPERTY SECTOR

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Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust Registered Charity 1133295

MARCH 2022

INSIDE FEATURES

REGULARS 4 INCOMING CUSTOMER RETENTION

6 BUSINESS NEWS CORNWALL’S 30 UNDER 30

10 CEO INTERVIEW NEW CORNWALL AIRPORT NEWQUAY MD, SAM O’DWYER

16 DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY HOW WILDANET IS HELPING REDRUTH RFC MOVE FASTER

18 CAREERS IN CRISIS? THE IMPACT OF THE PANDEMIC ON YOUNG PEOPLE’S JOB PROSPECTS

20 PROPERTY REVIEW SPOTLIGHT ON CORNWALL’S COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY SECTORS

ISSUE 155

32 BUSINESS CLINIC RETAIL TRICKS OF THE TRADE

34 ON THE MOVE WHO’S GONE WHERE?

36 TOURISM NEWS CORNWALL TOURISM AWARDS

37 EDUCATION & TRAINING NEWS COOKING UP A STORM

38 CREATIVE & DIGITAL

40 FOOD & DRINK RODDA’S B CORP STATUS

41 CHAMBER NEWS CORNWALL CHAMBER CEO KIM CONCHIE

42 JUST A THOUGHT BEN HALL, DIRECTOR OF QUICK PANDA PRODUCTIONS

44 EVENTS DIARY WHAT’S ON

46 CONNECTED WHAT’S GONE

48 THE LAST WORD SWIG FINANCE MD JOHN PETERS

AGENCY DROPS THE FILTER

39 FSB FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES

PHOTO: THE IDLE ROCKS SEE PAGE 36 FOR FULL STORY BUSINESS CORNWALL | 1

ISSUE 155

MARCH 2022

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

businesscornwall.co.uk

MARCH 2022 | ISSUE 155 | £3.95

READY FOR TAKE OFF...

INTRODUCING CORNWALL AIRPORT NEWQUAY’S NEW MD SAM O’DWYER

PROPERTY REVIEW

WE FOCUS ON CORNWALL’S PROPERTY SECTOR

03

03 9 772514

842001

9 772514

842001

WELCOME

BY EDITOR NICK EYRIEY

Shout about it

ON THE COVER

Plenty of stuff to put on your ‘to do list’ this month. Nominations are now open for Cornwall’s 30 under 30, a celebration of some of the fantastic burgeoning young talent we have here in the Duchy.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nick Eyriey nick@businesscornwall.co.uk

And even if you are personally on the wrong side of 30, I implore you to nominate those younger colleagues and employees that are really making a difference in your business. We will be featuring the full results in the May issue of Business Cornwall magazine, with a presentation ceremony in June during the Cornwall Festival of Business.

CORNWALL AIRPORT NEWQUAY’S NEW MD SAM O’DWYER. SEE PAGE 10

PUBLISHER Toni Eyriey toni@businesscornwall.co.uk BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Morveth Ward morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk ACCOUNT MANAGER Caroline Carter caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk 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 SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@businesscornwall.co.uk

Another positive way to champion your business is to enter the Cornwall Business Awards. They’re back after a three-year hiatus, and you have until March 21 to get your entries in, with the awards ceremony set to take place in the summer.

It’s great to see the return of such business networking events. It’s been a long wait and there’s much to look forward to this year.

Someone else with much to look forward to is the new MD of Cornwall Airport Newquay.

We meet Sam O’Dwyer and she explains her hopes and aspirations for the airport and the important relationship she wants to forge with the Cornish business community.

Registered under the Data Protection Act. All rights reserved No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied, stored in an electronic retrieval system or transmitted without the written permission of the publisher. Stringent efforts have been made by Business Cornwall magazine to ensure accuracy. However, due principally to the fact that data cannot always be verified, it is possible that some errors or omissions may occur. Business Cornwall magazine can not accept responsibility for such errors or omissions. Business Cornwall magazine accepts no responsibility for comments made by interviewees that may offend.

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@biz_cornwall

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INCOMING

THE CONVERSATION

The big question According to statistics, each year the average company loses 15% of its customer base. What is the best strategy to address this shortfall and which is more important - acquiring new customers or retaining existing ones?

Jointheconversation /businesscornwall @biz_cornwall /businesscornwall/

businesscornwall.co.uk

4 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

THE CONVERSATION

SAM OATEY Oatey Media

I feel that it’s important in being proactive in always offering more value to clients. It’s easy to complete a project with a client and then not hear from them for a couple of years - but being able to offer more value, whether that’s using pre-shot footage and reworking into other content or producing other films that can help brands.

I think there’s a balance between keeping existing client relationships and bringing in new clients - I love being able to work with clients on a consistent basis, you get to know each other and you’re practically an extension of their team. However, it’s also exciting to get new brands on board and new projects.

CHRISTINE FOULDS FouldsCRM

There are several different reasons why customers leave a company. The company no longer fits the customers need: each customer is part of a lifecycle. Sometimes a customer naturally gets to the end of their lifecycle with the company by either moving up or down the market.

The price doesn’t reflect value for money: Pricing strategy is a fundamental part of running a business and takes hours of research. Sometimes, customers use pricing as a reason to leave but what they are actually unhappy about is poor customer service or products that no longer meet their needs.

The product is no longer good enough: This is one of the most straightforward reasons to leave. The product is not as good as it used to be, it doesn’t solve the customer’s problem or competitors can do it better.

The customer doesn’t feel looked after: This is one of the main reasons why customers leave, and most of the time, doesn’t get the attention it requires to keep customers loyal to the company. Trust is very fragile and once it’s gone, it’s almost impossible to regain.

JESS RATTY Halo

Data and culture together are a maverick mix. Data enables you to evaluate performance, understand delivery shortfalls and enhance measurements, but culture brings the power of relationships to the table. Combining the two creates a maelstrom of possibilities where anything can be achieved if you understand what works for both company and client.

At Halo - customers, in our case clients, are not “lost” - projects end, business arrangements come to term, and people move on - but we still have the relationship, the care and culture that we first built the working period upon. We are firm friends with all clients we’ve worked with over the last few years - and this means the opportunity to work together continues.

Leaving the door open for clients to return is part of what works for us at Halo. We know that business is business, and a change of scene or wanting to try something new doesn’t have to - and shouldn’t - be seen as something to hold a grudge over. What works for the client works for us and we’re always happy to accommodate change or mix things up a bit!

It’s easy to forget that behind the big name and cool logo of a company or a client, there are living, breathing people - and remembering that can make all the difference in ensuring

INCOMING

that a client sticks with you, instead of jumping ship and being treated as one big homogenous blob by a different agency.

Data is an unavoidable necessity in its cool and cold relevance to a successful business, but only on paper. Culture, and the relationships that culture brings, is ultimately what tips the scale, and that can never be understated.

RUPERT COOPER

Philleigh Way Cookery School The best way to stop customers leaving is to remain focused on delivering the best service/product possible. To increase loyalty, reward schemes, discounts and regular communication with customers all helps.

As to which is more important - acquiring new customers or finding ways of retaining existing ones, it has to be a fine balance.

Retained customers will become delegates and marketers for your business itself.

But to grow and balance the books, new customers are vital.

ANN VANDERMEULEN FSB

Both losing business and gaining business is going to cost you out of different budgets. Attention to both retention and acquisition is vital for growth. The beauty of any small business is that element of personal customer service. Offering expertise and time, making customers feel understood and valued and giving exceptional value for money is a surefire way of retaining customers and getting new ones as word get around, especially in a place like Cornwall.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 5

CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

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FALMOUTH HARBOUR PRICE HIKE

to under-charge for services we have a statutory duty to provide,” said Carden.

Falmouth Harbour has revealed details of significant charge increases for leisure customers ahead of the 2022 season.

historically low charges while keeping them “competitive, fair - and in many cases still less than market levels”.

The increases will impact customers who use facilities including moorings, berths and boat parking.

It follows a thorough review of pricing policy for both commercial and leisure operations by the Harbour management team.

“We are faced with considerable challenges of increasing costs which are unavoidable and cannot be delayed any further as the future of the Harbour depends on it.”

Falmouth Harbour CEO, Miles Carden, says the increases – most of which have been limited to a maximum of 30% depending on the size of vessel - will rebalance

“No one likes price rises but we have had to accept that we cannot maintain, keep safe and grow this spectacular and vibrant sailing and commercial harbour if we continue

After the initial rebalancing increases which come into effect for the 2022 season, Falmouth Harbour aims to maintain future charges at levels around the rate of inflation.

ENTRIES OPEN ON 30 UNDER 30

our annual 30 under 30 Awards. It’s the event where we judge and meet some of Cornwall’s rising stars who inspire and engage the panel with their energy, knowledge, and enthusiasm.”

Nominations are now open for Cornwall’s 30 under 30 Awards.

Cornwall Chamber of Commerce along with Business Cornwall magazine, Don’t Cry Wolf, Pirate FM and Truro & Penwith College, are on the hunt for the best of Cornwall’s thriving young talent.

If you are a self-motivated, innovative entrepreneur, businessperson or professional making waves in Cornwall, then we want to hear from you or you can nominate an outstanding member of your team, a friend that inspires you, or even a family member you know has worked tirelessly to get where they are today.

To be eligible for the award, 30 under 30 candidates must living and working in Cornwall and be under the age of 30 on March 18, 2022. The judges want to see a range of nominations to represent the great diversity Cornwall has to offer.

Chamber chief executive, Kim Conchie, said: “I’m so excited to be warming up to 6 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

The closing date for nominations is March 18. For full details on how to enter, head to the cornwallchamber.co.uk website.

All 30 winners will be announced in the May issue of Business Cornwall, with an awards ceremony will be on June 17. #30U30 #thirtyunderthirty

EDEN SET FOR MORECAMBE Planning permission has been granted to build a new Eden Project in the north west of England.

The focus now for the Eden team is to obtain the funding and it has submitted a business case to the Government, asking for a £70 million public investment in the £125 million project.

David Harland, chief executive of Eden Project International, said: “Planning permission is a huge milestone on our journey towards making Eden Project North an exemplar project for Morecambe, Lancashire and the North of England.

“The project is now definitively shovel-ready and a compelling financial case has been made to Government.”

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY sapc.co.uk

NEW COMPANY FOR A NEW ERA

NEWS IN BRIEF

Global spring manufacturer, Lesjöfors AB, has rebranded its operation in Cornwall.

The Swedish-owned company has more than 50 sites across the world, including two factories in Penryn and Redruth, which were formerly called European Springs & Pressings. They will now form a new company called Lesjöfors Heavy Springs UK Michael Gibbs, MD of the newly-formed Lesjöfors company, said: “This is a really exciting new chapter for the Cornwall factories. Our new company and new name reflect a unified team under the Lesjöfors AB brand and the world-leading springs we manufacture for customers across the automotive, rail, agriculture, oil, mining, construction and energy sectors in the UK.

CORNWALL

“We have achieved a record-breaking order book over the last year; sales are up 35%, we’ve grown our team by 40% and our annual turnover is our best yet at £15 million. This year we’re investing £1 million in new machinery and every element of our performance has been driven by an ambitious and progressive team, propelled with investment support by Lesjöfors AB.” European Springs & Pressings will continue its manufacturing operations in Kent.

Cornwall Air Ambulance was called out to 1,092 missions in 2021. The crew responded to 733 incidents in the helicopter and 359 in the rapid response vehicles. Of these missions, 551 were to people injured in traumarelated incidents and 534 were in response to medical emergencies.

Throughout the year, the critical care team carried out a total of 12 blood transfusions at the scene of an incident. ______________________________________ D3 Architects won a Best of Houzz award on the home renovation online platform, Houzz, for a second year running. ______________________________________ Penryn-based marine renewables company HydroWing has been awarded a berth at the Morlais tidal stream energy project in Anglesey. It plans a “phased approach” starting with a commercial demonstrator project in 2023 which will be operated by its newly-established Welsh operation - HydroWing Tidal Projects Ltd. ______________________________________ Penryn-based marine manufacturing company, Workfloat (also trading as ScaffFloat), has secured a £140k equity investment from the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Investment Fund (CIOSIF) as part of a £200k funding round led by appointed CIOSIF fund manager, The FSE Group. ______________________________________

A Falmouth company has been awarded European rights for an environment-friendly filter for superyachts.

Lizard Yacht Service has been appointed sole European distributor for the SeaClean System, which is designed to remove harmful particulates from marine diesel generator exhausts.

From its bases in Falmouth and Mallorca, Lizard Yacht Service provides parts and engineering services to luxury yacht and superyacht clients.

MD, Emlyn Jones, explained: “Luxury yacht owners want their vessels to be in pristine

EVERYTHING SHIP SHAPE condition. Hull staining from the generator exhaust can require cleaning with abrasives.

As well as the inconvenience, over time this repetitive cleaning can damage the hull.

Diesel engine soot pollution has become a major factor in increased maintenance costs for yachts and other motor vessels.

“We are delighted to have been appointed sole European distributor and we are looking forward to bringing this innovative technology to the fast-growing superyacht market in Europe.”

Truro-based wine importer Old Chapel Cellars has become the first merchant in the UK – and only the second globally – to become a registered B Corp. It achieved the highly-regarded environmental and social certification last month, after undergoing a rigorous verification process. It joins Danish importer Østjysk Vinforsyning as the only B Corp accredited wine merchant to date. ______________________________________ Folk2Folk, the Launceston-based national lender for regional businesses, has surpassed £500 million in lending with a record level of £108 million lent during 2021, almost double that of the previous year.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 7

CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

THE BUSINESS AWARDS ARE BACK! Businesses have until March 21 to submit their entries for the Cornwall Business Awards.

After a three-year hiatus, the awards are back in full force and will be presented at a gala ceremony in June.

From great places to work and customer experience, inspirational stories of success and growth 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 16th iteration, the awards are organised by the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Growth and Skills Hub. Operations manager, Kirsty Miles-Musgrave, said: “We are thrilled to have the Cornwall Business Awards back for 2022. After a break in both 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, we cannot wait to recognise the achievements of businesses across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, from those who have shifted the ways in which they work to others who have kept moving forward despite the challenges.

SPONSORED BY

focus-technology.co.uk

SPACEPORT IMPACT REPORT Spaceport Cornwall is preparing to release its Sustainability Impact Report and Action Plan, as it gears up for a first satellite launch this summer.

Small satellites are set to play a crucial role in the fight against climate change, with increased Earth observation leading to deeper ‘environmental intelligence’ providing us with the data needed to inform policy both locally and globally.

But while the benefits of small satellite launches are increasingly evident, there are also detrimental impacts that cannot be ignored. Spaceport Cornwall says the report has been created to share those impacts - both offering and seeking opportunities to reduce them through open collaboration.

Before the report is released to the public, Spaceport Cornwall has launched

a Sustainability Steering Group of environmental experts and stakeholders from across Cornwall. They will now work with spokespeople from each sector related to their areas of focus, asking them to review and consult on the findings and progress the action plan to its next stages.

Head of Spaceport Cornwall, Melissa Thorpe, said: “We believe transparency and openness need to be a priority in our industry, because the impacts and outcomes affect us all. That’s why we are calling for a steering group to help us further this report - we’re committing to do things differently – to show the world that space launch can be transparent and to change things for the better.”

“Whether you believe your business is the best place to work, if you have a rising star on your team who deserves recognition, or if you’re doing your bit to help make our county cleaner and greener, there is an award category for everyone so jump online and get applying.”

The awards are completely free to enter, and businesses should register on the Cornwall Business Awards website. Any business or sole trader based in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly can apply with applications open until Midnight, Monday March 21. cornwallbusinessawards.co.uk

A FISHERMEN’S TALE The Fishermen’s Mission charity is looking to raise £7.5k on Crowdfunder to publish a new book celebrating the Cornish fishing industry in Mevagissey.

‘Salty Cove’ is a collection of professional black and white portraits of those connected to the Mevagissey fishing industry and their accompanying life stories.

It is a living piece of social history, dedicated to the hard-working people from this 8 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

PHOTO: MATTHEW FACEY

beautiful part of Cornwall.

Fundraising manager, Julian Waring, said: “This book is three years in the making and reflects the energy of our dedicated volunteers in Mevagissey who have kept this project alive during the hard times of restrictions.”

For full details and pledge your support for the book, head to crowdfunder.co.uk before March 18.

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY sapc.co.uk

CORNWALL

SCAFFFLOAT IN AUSTRALIA SAM JACKMAN

Penryn-based ScaffFloat has entered a new partnership downunder.

this to be the first of many jobs where we provide safe floating access.

ScaffFloat is a patented plastic float that allows pontoons, barges and workboats to be built from standard scaffold components.

“In this case the client, Elite Concrete Protection and Repairs have said they are delighted with the bespoke access for their planned works, in particular how safe it is for the works close to the water.”

It has just launched its first pontoon in Australia, through Access Engineering Group (AEG), which has become an approved partner of the system.

The 8m x 4m is being used by the client to carry out maintenance works on Barrack Street Jetty in Perth and needs access above and below the water.

Damian Beausang, MD of AEG Group, said: “We have had a number of other enquiries for ScaffFloat in Australia and we expect

Toby Budd, MD of ScaffFloat, added: “We are delighted to have Damian and Access Engineering Group onboard and this first commercial job is a great start. It’s a real milestone that proves the ScaffFloat system is no longer limited to UK shores. We are now looking at starting manufacture in country so we can supply higher numbers of floats for other projects down under in the pipeline.”

IT’S POSSIBLE CAMBORNE

BOOST FOR CORNISH INNOVATION Calstock-based Boost Innovations, which has developed an innovative new type of breast prosthesis designed to boost confidence and aid comfort and usability, has just secured a £105k investment from British Design Fund.

The start-up was founded by friends and colleagues Sam Jackman and Rosie Brave in 2018, after seeing the many issues Jackman’s mum experienced using a breast form following treatment for breast cancer.

Sam explains: “Following surgery for breast cancer, my mum was given a breast prosthesis to wear. It was hot, it made her sweaty and was uncomfortable against her scar. It was also heavy and pulled her clothing down when she moved. So in the end she refused to wear it. But there were times when she felt it would be nice to have some shape under her clothes and we really struggled to find any alternatives.”

She continued: “It turned out that lots of women had a similar experience to my mum, and we decided that if nobody else was going to tackle the problem, then we would come up with a solution ourselves.”

The Camborne Town Deal board has voted in favour of working with a recently formed community interest company (CIC) that aims to drive positive change and help local people.

Called ‘It’s Possible Camborne’, the CIC was set up by an experienced team of volunteer directors who live and work in the town and are passionate about turning aspirations into reality.

Project applications have been invited and two, involving young people, are currently moving forward.

“We want to empower local people to get actively involved, encourage organisations to work together and attract and share resource,” said CIC chair Rose HitchensTodd. “We see our projects as collective efforts and tools for connecting and building a stronger Camborne.”

The first, entitled ‘Future Crew’ and funded into its second year by Camborne Town Council, encourages 10–16-year-olds to come up with their own plans for leading positive change. The second, Camborne Youth Tec Hub, focuses on providing access for the digitally excluded.

With the support of engineer Chris Hawken, Jackman and Brave began developing the concept of an open structured breast form that also challenged the assumption that a breast form needs to imitate skin tone. Since launching the product in October 2020, the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

Boost already has a number of other prototypes and projects underway. This includes a digital breast form fitting service, which is being developed with Innovate UK and is set to launch in 2023. The start-up is also looking to expand internationally.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 9

SAM

O’DWYER

Cornwall Airport Newquay has a new MD. We catch up with Sam O’Dwyer, who talks us through the turbulent times the industry has been facing over the past couple of years and her hopes for the future.

10 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

CEO feature and cover photographs by Toby Weller

SAM

O’DWYER

Sam O’Dwyer BUSINESS CORNWALL | 11

SAM

O’DWYER

You’ve been in the industry all your life in various roles.

I’m aviation through and through. I started off at an airline, then went to airports, where I was initially in charge of delivering big multimillion pound development

programmes. And I think that capital planning strategy background is something that Corserv see is something that will be very useful to making the best of the asset that we’ve got in Newquay.

But it’s always been in my blood. Basically, my father was an aerospace engineer. He used to design aircraft and things that flew.

I was dragged to every aviation museum in the UK. But it was something that we always talked about. We were located in the south east near both Heathrow and Gatwick and I ended up applying for an apprenticeship with British Airways and was successful. And to be honest, once I started, I realised what a land of opportunity it was.

And it was in a very, very different time, when aviation was seen as glamorous, and it made a lot of money. It was pre the low cost carriers and all of the challenges that presented for the full service airlines. But there’s always something interesting going on. It’s always developing and I just find it all incredibly interesting.

I want to build back to at least what we had pre-Covid

And what attracted you to the job here, because this is a slight change in direction isn’t it, managing an airport rather consulting to various ones?

To be honest with you, I think, for me, it’s bringing together a lot of what I do, and the bits that I actually enjoy doing the most.

I’m very people focused for a start. I’m quite entrepreneurial.

I’ve been a consultant, I’ve been a freelance consultant and worked for a large consultancy for some time. So for me, it’s the

12 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

opportunity to bring all that together and get some really good benefits for the people of Cornwall. And this is a lovely airport in a fantastic location. And it’s got some real potential.

These past couple of years must have been the hardest ever for the industry.

How has it been trying to pick things up again?

Early days, obviously, but good. My immediate priority is to build back the schedule that we had pre Covid and more. I’m working very closely with our airline partners to look at the route network. And I want to build a route network that allows us to accommodate the business community. And I really want to get some background knowledge from the local business community to make sure we give them what they want. It’s all very well having a business in Cornwall, but they need to be able to engage with their markets, whether it’s overseas or the financial centres in London.

But either way we have to ask ourselves, are we really serving that community as well as we could?

I can see there are some real opportunities that if we do certain things, we can actually build a business network that serves the business community of Cornwall. I’m very keen to engage with the business community just to see what they’ve got to say and how can work together. Why are you traveling?

Where are you traveling to? How do you get your goods in and out of Cornwall?

There were challenging conditions for regional airports even before the pandemic. Are the challenges similar for all regional airports?

Location of the region is one of the main challenges and that’s precisely why there’s a PSO (public service obligation), leveling up regional communities. I’ve just been reading

SAM

this morning some information from ACI (Airports Council International) about state funding and what has been made available to other regional type airports within Europe. And it’s significantly more than we have here at the moment. So I’m going to be looking really to a make sure that we can deliver our part of the green agenda, because as far as I can see, so far, the local community, the business community and the resident community have very much moved on from seeing Cornwall Airport Newquay as a drain on our finances to Cornwall Airport Newquay being an asset that we need to make the most of. And the PSO helps that. And I recently met with Eastern Airlines, I met with the owner and the managing director to see how we can build on the route network, hopefully, for the benefit of the people in Cornwall.

I want to build back to at least what we had pre-Covid. And some. And also, I’m going to be looking at pulling a lot more data around international routes, and which international routes local people need. Do we need more winter sun? Do we need more summer sun?

Winter ski season?

I think summer 2022 and winter 2022 are seasons of opportunity.

When discussing new routes with the airlines, is that quite a long-drawn out process?

It’s not long drawn out at the moment, because Covid has meant there’s a real late booking profile and because there is no established data about recovery, all bets are off. It’s very lastminute.com, if I’m honest. So, the discussion really is what demand can we produce, what are the passenger numbers likely to be? And what’s our catchment area?

And then you need to ensure there’s an adequate number of rotations, for the business community for example, that you need to be able to do a day return. And

for some summer sun, if you’re going to connect through Heathrow or Gatwick, you’ll need to ensure that there are appropriate connecting times and find appropriate connecting services. The devil really is in the detail for me. And that’s basically what I’m going to be doing over the next few months is having those discussions with the business community, having those discussions with the local residents, talking to travel agents. The collapse of Flybe has had a significant impact on Exeter, but in some respects, is that an opportunity for Newquay to provide routes that are currently not being catered for?

Prior to the pandemic, there was a link with Heathrow which went down well with the business community.

Could that be on the agenda going forward?

O’DWYER

that consumer confidence is really coming back. So, we’re definitely going to be building on that and will be releasing more services on the PSO imminently.

How long will it take for the industry to regain its confidence?

I’ve spoken to lots of my airport colleagues and we’re all saying we’re “cautiously optimistic”.

For me building back to where we were will be within the next four years. That’s kind of the industry view. But how long is a piece of string? We don’t know what the next variant is going to be. Less impactful than Omicron or could it be more? And how are we going to react globally to vaccination programmes? I don’t know the answers but I think the industry realises it definitely needs to be more dynamic in responding.

Spaceport is an enormous opportunity

Yes, we’re hoping to have a Heathrow link on the agenda, not the frequency obviously the PSO facilitated, but we’re hoping to have a three-times a week in the summer schedule operated by British Airways.

The PSO is currently operated out of Gatwick with Eastern Airlines. Eastern Airlines was selected because we believe that they are dynamic. They are prepared to take risks and to work with us to build and develop the best network possible.

At the moment that’s just one flight a day?

That’s definitely going up. The PSO wasn’t awarded until the middle of December, so we didn’t really have a huge amount of time for people to book onto the service. And then of course, we’ve had Omicron. And the Government protocols were unclear, and that really knocked consumer confidence. But what we have seen in the last few weeks is

But what I do know without doubt is that there is a pent-up demand for people in the UK to go overseas. We need to be able to provide that demand quickly.

How is the business strategy for the airport changing?

There has been a distinct lack of investment.

My plan now is to develop the business strategy over the next few months to develop a master plan for the airport that takes advantage of the potential opportunities that I can see. For example, we’ve got a 650acre estate that’s absolutely begging to be developed. Part of our master plan will be a land use strategy. How can the airport really maximize all of that estate to the mutual benefit of the aerodrome and the network that we have here. And also to local businesses, so anything that could be complementary and drive more traffic into Cornwall will be things that we’re actively looking to develop.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 13

SAM

O’DWYER

And I guess the satellite operations fall into that?

Absolutely, Spaceport is an enormous opportunity. We’re working very closely with the Spaceport team to make sure that we take advantage of those opportunities. It’s early days, but again, funding is an issue for both us and Spaceport. And we’re looking to validate those opportunities and really work closely together.

It will be bringing external investment into the area and there’s an opportunity of becoming the UK satellite launch base. At the moment, there’s no ability to launch satellites from the UK, either vertical or horizontal. It will be the first opportunity to do that. And then what does the future of UK space launch look like?

And how do we make that work for Cornwall? And how do we make that work for Newquay Airport? So yes, there’s quite a lot to be done.

I assume another big challenge is the getting the right environmental message across, because climate change is so high on the agenda now?

Getting the message across that 100 holidaymakers driving down from Manchester can be worse for the environment than all those people flying down?

Exactly. It’s something that I’m keen to get some data on, and to start looking at how we can communicate better with people so that they can see that we’re not a foe of the community, we’re actually a friend of the community.

The airport is Council owned, which I guess is not ideal. But who would want to buy an airport in this day and age?

Well, you’d be surprised.

There are lots of people out there that do want to buy airports in this day and age.

But yes, we are Council owned, and but that does have some advantages. It helps us to secure funding when it’s available from Government. It helps us in terms of our ability to develop the right facilities on the 650-acre estate. And of course, having that link into Government is beneficial as well. And also having the conduit to their constituents is beneficial. We’re not the only airport in the in the country operated by the Council and it can work very successfully. And that’s what I’m hoping to do.

Part of our master plan will be a land use strategy

We haven’t done enough within aviation to demonstrate how green we can actually be.

And particularly the airport, we definitely need investment to move to green technologies, because they are out there. There is an increased cost, but it’s something that we will do, and we have to do. And then I think, as you say, is the messaging. Since Covid everybody’s just been concerned about building their businesses back, but it’s building our businesses back differently and becoming more of a friend of the environment and getting the message out there. For example, the aircraft that we’re flying on the PSO to London, is actually more carbon friendly than taking the train. There 14 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

are greener technologies that we are actively utilising, sustainable aviation fuels.

Is the industry typically male dominated?

And if so, has that been a challenge for you personally?

Definitely. If you looked at the ratio of male to female employees in the industry, it may be equal. But if you look at boardroom level, there’s a distinct difference between the two.

And for my entire life, I have generally been

sitting at a table surrounded by men. So, I’m very positive that I think it’s a good thing to have a key figurehead at Newquay who is a female. It’s not that women are better, but I think having a mix and a different approach that you’d have between male and female, it brings balance.

Have you had to work harder to prove yourself?

Yes, I think I have over the years, but it’s definitely changing. Initially, if a woman is seen as forthright as a male, there used to be a negative connotation around that. If you stood up for yourself and said we need to do this, do that, many years ago there was surprise that a woman could actually come up with those ideas. And then yes, you do have to be stronger. It’s getting better but yes, without doubt, as a female during my tenure in aviation, I’ve had to prove I’m better than my male colleagues in order to advance my career. And I think if you speak to most women who have been in the industry as long as I have, they will tell you the same story.

I assume Covid must have hit staff numbers at the airport?

During Covid we lost 30% of our operational headcount, because basically we lost more than 30% of the of the traffic. At the moment we are recruiting a small number of operational only roles. I think it’s fair to say that staffing is absolutely down to the bone.

As I say, being cautiously optimistic for our summer schedule, we have to recruit in order to facilitate that schedule and we’re actively recruiting as we speak. I think my concern going forward is to ensure that I’ve got enough resilience in the operation.

One great thing about Newquay Airport that I’ve really seen is that the staff have been so flexible, and they are so committed to making it work. I can’t thank the team enough, really.

SAM

Moving forward from the pandemic and with a new MD, it must be like having a blank sheet of paper, almost a reboot for the airport itself?

Absolutely. And I see it as a really positive opportunity. When I was interviewed, I said to the panel, to be honest, this is probably one of the best opportunities in aviation.

Hopefully looking forward to a busy summer. How many routes will there be in operation roughly, compared to before lockdown?

We had 23 routes prior to lockdown. There are currently 19 on the schedule but I believe that will change for the better over the next few weeks.

Will these be new routes or old ones coming back?

There are a number of different strategies we’ve got for building back. One is to reestablish what we had prior to Covid. A second is to reduce seasonality, so that we’re not just so summer orientated. And a third is to build more international routes out of Newquay.

Build a network that serves the business community of Cornwall

Seasonality is a challenge. But as I mentioned, we are potentially looking at ski routes, and building some key business routes with the right volume and the frequency that we’ll be able to run throughout the year. We’re not going to be 90% occupancy as the hotels are all year round, but we are going to try and reduce that seasonality by working with the right carriers to put on the right routes.

O’DWYER

Can it be quite complicated getting a new route?

To make it work commercially, they’re depending on the price of the lease of the aircraft, they need to be up in the air six, seven hours a day minimum.

And it depends a lot on the aircraft type and the number of seats on that aircraft. So that I suppose one of the challenges we’ve got is the size of Newquay and the catchment area which is about a million passengers in the south west. Can we demonstrate adequate demand that will put on bigger aircraft types to go to further flung places? That’s one of the challenges that I’m grappling with. Can we fly long haul out of Newquay?

Is that realistic do you think?

I think there’s a distinct possibility of it being realistic if we also build an integrated transport network and look at freight and cargo. We’ve got a fantastic runway and the capacity of the runway was 100% proven during G7, which was a fantastic success. But it’s not just about can we actually facilitate the aircraft size, which we know we can, it’s about do we have enough traffic to make it worth it. And one of the strands that I’m looking at is to look at cargo and the largest part of cargo growth in the UK is belly hold cargo.

And the reason for that is that it makes the economics for the airlines stack up. Cargo in the belly hold, passengers up top in the seats. And that’s why for me, local businesses who need to export, they are the people I really want to talk to.

So, if there is demand, your goal is to meet that demand and facilitate it?

Yes. What I’m really trying to pull together is what do the local business community need? Which routes do they want to be served?

What is their demand for these routes? If there is a freight and cargo opportunity that is something I am 100% going to look at.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 15

DIGITAL

CONNECTIVITY

16 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

DIGITAL

Superfast

conversion

Cornish broadband provider Wildanet is expanding its network bringing ultrafast and super-reliable broadband to communities and businesses throughout Cornwall, including helping Redruth RFC transform connectivity at the club.

Redruth RFC has kicked its poor-quality internet service into touch and replaced it with Wildanet’s ultrafast, reliable broadband.

reliable, fast broadband has been a game changer for The Reds.

Staff, players and fans at Cornwall’s famous rugby club were struggling to keep track of latest scores around the league and the club was even finding difficulty filing post-match reports because of their intermittent WiFi connection.

“So, basically we had no internet at all. It was so slow to the point that you were better off just turning your WiFi off and just using your phone,” he said. “We had four card machines in the building which basically didn’t work so Wildanet came in sorted it out and we haven’t looked back.”

In addition, card machines in the team’s clubhouse and Tribute Lounge often simply wouldn’t work and players were unable to stream their essential pre-match music in the changing room before they went out on the pitch.

Redruth RFC, currently top of National League Two, now has up to eight points of pay available in the building, card machines on the gates for admission, as well as improved coverage all over the ground.

“The internet before Wildanet were involved was really poor,” said Redruth RFC’s sponsorship manager Rudi Grenfell. “The new internet service here has made a really big difference.

“It’s much better,” said Nick. “There’s so much going on here every day, there’s conferences, there are roadshows and everyone wants WiFi, so from our point of view, it’s brilliant.”

“You never have to worry that you’re going to have drop outs. Every single game, it works perfectly. We all come here and relax, knowing that it’s going to work 100 per cent.”

Redruth’s players have also benefitted from the upgraded system. Fraser Honey, Redruth RFC first team’s fly half said pre and postmatch routines are now much easier, thanks to Wildanet.

Nick George, a member of Redruth RFC’s executive committee, said having Wildanet’s

CONNECTIVITY

“After a game it would take us a while to catch up with results and see what the other teams in the league were doing at that time.

“Now the internet has changed, it’s much faster and we can connect with other teams in the league and find out the results quicker.”

Faster broadband speed also means better pre-match preparations.

“Obviously, it’s really important before games because we’d have the music going,” said Fraser. “Music is a massive part of any rugby changing room. If you’ve got faster internet, it’s so much better.”

Installation was quick and easy to do, meaning staff and players could access the new system straight away.

“I didn’t expect it to be installed so quickly,” said Nick George. “Most things take ages and ages especially in this day and age!” he added, explaining that the team here would be recommending Wildanet to other firms.

“The whole process from start to finish was brilliant,” he said. “I was very impressed.”

If you or your business need help and support with digital connectivity, Wildanet has a range of options and innovative solutions available as it accelerates its £50m rollout across Cornwall.

Speak to the team on 0800 0699906 or visit www.wildanet.com/business Watch the video:

“Before, the internet was quite slow, he said.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 17

CAREERS

CORNWALL

Careers

in crisis?

18 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

The impact of the pandemic on young people’s job prospects has been widely discussed. Carrie Childs (Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Careers Hub Lead) shares insight about how careers work in schools and colleges has changed in the past two years.

CAREERS

CORNWALL

We aim to showcase the variety of career paths that are available today, and how skills developed within school can be applied across several business sectors.

For example, creative skills, such as graphic design, English and photography go hand in hand with working in technology – within marketing, product design, or content creation.

My team and I have participated in careers evenings, mock-interview sessions, assemblies, tech talks/workshops, business development sessions for business studies students, and offered work experience placements for students across a range of disciplines.

Jeremy Sneller, MD of Cornwall-based AI company TouchByte, became an Enterprise Adviser for Penryn College back in 2017.

It’s always been important to me to be able to give back to the local community and inspire younger generations – to create the opportunities that perhaps weren’t so accessible when I was a student.

When will you be running another skills show?

It’s a question I’m often asked.

Cornwall’s annual gathering of 100+ businesses, educators, trainers and more than 3,000 young people was always a sight (and sound) to behold.

It took months of planning and came with a risk assessment that resembled a novel; minus any intriguing plotline!

Witnessing the Cornish business community engage with its future workforce in glorious technicolour was one of the highlights of the Careers Hub year.

I was so impressed by the team at Gloss Media who continued a project they’d started with students at Nancealverne Special School. Students created content at a distance. As a result, the company launched a not-for-profit; Access Cornwall, raising awareness of disability inclusion and creating opportunities for some of our most disadvantaged young people.

Forget qualifications, skills, work experience, or contacts. What you need is hope

We were unsure how to proceed when the pandemic took hold. How would schools, colleges and businesses retain and develop the relationships that they had built since the Careers Hub launched?

We reached out to our business network and their replies kept us on track, including one referencing a blog by Paul Redmond writing for The Institute of Student Employers: “Forget qualifications, skills, work experience, or contacts. All these are important, but not nearly enough. What you need is hope.”

With renewed energy, we adapted our

focus from large scale projects to develop supportive networks for Careers Leaders, improve the experience our business network and test out small pockets of innovation; such as the development of Virtual Work Experience placements.

We’ve certainly witnessed the number of businesses seeking to develop careers outreach programmes growing since the start of the pandemic. In December, we took on an additional member of staff to help manage this demand. Steve is available to support any business in Cornwall consider why and how they work with schools and colleges to greatest impact. We are also growing our Cornerstone Employer Community, too.

“Cornwall has masses of untapped potential. I believe there needs to be a greater interconnect between businesses and colleges; local businesses should identify the benefits of getting directly involved with the local colleges and schools. It’s creating opportunities for the next generation, who will soon become a part of the working world – we need to inspire this generation now.”

So, will there be a skills show this year? We want to retain a sharp focus and invest our time and energy to greatest impact. I recently observed a group of Enterprise Advisers and Careers Leaders discussing the contribution that education makes to economic development and the work they are planning as a result. It filled me with the same sense of excitement that the skills show always has and I certainly hope the conversations and innovation from the past two years are here to stay!

Not to disappoint; Yes we will be running My Skills My Future on May 4. The show will be smaller than before and intended to reach young people in Cornwall who experience some of the greatest obstacles; this great source of potential will be key to the success of our businesses in the future.

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Careers Hub is funded by the Careers and Enterprise Company with match funding from CIOS LEP. To find out more about becoming part of our network please contact hello@careershubcios.co.uk, visit our website www.careershubcios.co.uk and follow us on social media @careershubcios BUSINESS CORNWALL | 19

PROPERTY

REVIEW

PICTURE: ACORN, SEE PAGE 26-27

20 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

PROPERTY

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Activity remains strong across Cornwall’s commercial and, in particular, residential property markets, as we discover over the next 12 pages.

The property

review BUSINESS CORNWALL | 21

PROPERTY

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According to Alder King’s Market Monitor, there remains an “insatiable appetite” for industrial/logistics space, driven by ongoing changes in consumer spending in the south west.

It points to a new developments in a number of centres, including Truro, being snapped up before or during construction, leading to improved rentals, lease terms and capital values.

It also says the increasing acceptance of the benefits of office working have seen office take-up return to prepandemic levels across the region, including Truro.

The office market in Truro and surrounding area has seen a rebalance

It says the office market in Truro and surrounding area has seen a rebalance, with a reduction in supply and increase in take-up over the last 12 months. “This is in part a catch up in the market following earlier Covid-19 restrictions and there was a notable improvement in take-up in H2 2021,” the report states.

The Market Monitor says that while on paper, supply exceeds demand, in reality businesses seeking good quality stock in specific locations can find their options limited.

The Market Monitor confirms the notion that the industrial market has continued to bounce back locally in the past 12 months. It says demand continues to be focused along the A30 corridor and main conurbations within Cornwall and that this trend is likely to continue further with the current dualling of the A30 between Carland Cross and Chiverton Cross.

Supply and demand continues to be an issue in Cornwall, particularly with new and modern stock. The report says new development is not matching supply with issues around build costs continuing to be an issue for some.

He says demand for commercial space is proving resilient with an upswing in demand for retail units in such locations as Penzance, Newquay and Liskeard, which have suffered from a lack of demand in recent years.

“The surge in online retail has meant a

SEVEN STARS FOR SALE SBC Property has bought to market one of the most well-known waterside inns in Cornwall.

While the pandemic has had an inevitable negative impact on the high street, Tom points out that the sector already had its challenges.

The Seven Stars is located on Trefusis Road, Flushing and offers an outstanding pub/ restaurant on a prominent waterside location with views over to Falmouth.

“The challenges of the high street are not necessarily specific to the pandemic and have been under pressure from e-commerce for a while and the pandemic just accelerated a trend that was already developing,” he says.

The Seven Stars offers bar restaurant areas for 75+ covers, with a small outside trading area to the front and to the rear of the pub.

At first floor level there is a 3-4 bedroom flat with private kitchen which has letting potential, subject to receiving the necessary consents.

The current owners, Susie Popperwell and Julie Nosworthy have successfully run the business for over ten years and now intend to take a well-earned break.

“The larger retail premises are going to be the most challenging and landlords are being creative in the deals they are putting together to attract the best occupiers back to the prime locations on the high street.”

When it comes to office space, Tom echoes the Alder King sentiment that many workers are keen to return to the office.

“While there has been some turbulence in this sector as businesses have had to adapt to home working and social distancing, the market for small offices has seen a surge in activity from typically independent or smaller private or familyrun businesses who realise that working from home is not an ideal or long-term solution!

The industrial market has continued to bounce back locally in the past 12 months

Tom Smith, a partner at chartered surveyor and business property specialist Miller Commercial, says that generally, there is currently a high level of activity across the commercial sector with many businesses looking to expand into new warehouses or upgrade their current working premises.

22 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

dramatic surge in enquiries for warehouse space,” he says, “which has left the sector now vastly under supplied while on the high street there has been a palpable shift in focus to small independent shops with a focus on sustainability, community and service providers so that many ‘secondary’ retail locations and smaller towns are seeing retail units filling up again after a prolonged period of retailers going bust.”

“We have also experienced lots of new entrants to the market as people have moved away from some of the larger urban conurbations, looking for the rural or coastal ideal and small offices provide a perfect escape from home life and allow workers a vital separation between their home and work lives.”

SBC Property is inviting offers on a “price on application” basis. Please contact Jeremy Beeching on 01872 277397 or email jeremy@sbcproperty.com

Looking ahead, Tom says we are still in a period of readjustment and that will throw up opportunities as businesses look to relocate or expand and upgrade their premises.

“What this will mean in the market is continued upward pressure on industrial rents and resultingly, higher capital values for freehold property,” he says.

“The knock on from this will be that landlords and developers will be able to develop new premises speculatively with confidence as demand remains strong and development values exceed the cost of building. We expect more industrial freehold and investment sales to emerge as landlords and property owners want to capitalise on the strength in the market.

“We expect office workers to spend more time at their place of work and while home

UNDER OFFER

Cornwall Care House, Threemilestone, Truro: Freehold sale of 9,250 sq ft high quality, modern office with 26 parking spaces at Truro Business Park, Threemilestone.

Quoted £1,200,000

UNDER OFFER

UNDER OFFER

Sea View Park, Sennen, Penzance:

10-11 Market Jew Street, Penzance:

Sale of a substantial mixed use leisure site, moments from Land’s End, extending to 9.4 acres including 75 static homes, 120 camping spaces, a swimming pool, tennis court, bar & restaurant.

Freehold investment and development opportunity comprising fully let ground floor retail unit with 5 upper floors with spectacular views over Mounts Bay, suitable for conversion.

Quoted £3,000,000

Quoted £395,000

2022 – OFF TO A FLYING START! The Southwest Commercial Property Sector has started 2022 very buoyantly with demand very high for all our services.

Mike Nightingale - Partner 01872 247008 | msn@miller-commercial.co.uk

Our new look Partnership and their teams are ready to help you in 2022 with the buying, selling, leasing and managing of commercial properties as well as buying and selling businesses and providing professional services including rent collection and valuations.

Tom Smith - Partner 01872 247013 | ts@miller-commercial.co.uk

Contact us now and we will help you unlock your commercial property potential.

Brian Botting - Partner 01872 247009 | bjb@miller-commercial.co.uk

miller-commercial.co.uk

UNDER OFFER

Waterside Cornwall, Lanivet, Bodmin: Extremely rare opportunity to acquire a 96 acre holiday complex, just off the A30. Includes 69 self catering lodges with club house, restaurant, swimming pool, fishing lake & golf course.

Quoted £6,500,000

Nick Maffey - Partner 01872 247028 | ngm@miller-commercial.co.uk

SOLD

UNDER OFFER

St Ives Business Park, Penbeagle Industrial Estate, St Ives:

14 St Mary’s Street & 21 Old Bridge Street, Truro:

Investment sale of a terrace of 5 industrial / business units in the heart of St Ives’ only industrial estate, fully let and income producing.

Freehold development opportunity in the historic cathedral quarter of Truro, adjacent to the Cathedral and offering 4,000 sq ft of net internal area.

Quoted £925,000

Quoted £400,000

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REVIEW

working will remain a pattern for years ahead, we anticipate that workers will soon spend the balance of their working hours at their office.”

Another area of the property market in Cornwall affected by the pandemic has been the tourism and leisure sector, with an increased demand for staycations.

Cornwall’s natural beauty has helped firmly establish our county as a world class holiday destination.

A common criticism of the holiday home market is that its success can come to the detriment of housing for locals

Julianne Shelton, managing co-director at luxury holiday letting agency Cornish Gems, explains: “The local business community has collectively raised the bar in terms of accommodation, food, drink, activities/experiences and service standards. This coupled with

“It’s become such a competitive landscape, it’s reached a saturation point. Market share is dominated by the mass market booking and owner direct engines that tend not to offer a proportionate amount of regional jobs.

“We are such a small company here in Cornwall with a portfolio of 200 properties, a drop in the ocean compared to say Airbnb with over 6000 properties in Cornwall. However, we are a large employer

A ratio of two staff members per property enables us to deliver a high level of service and local knowledge

Cornwall is a sought-after location for a new home with demand outstripping supply

24 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

with a workforce of 100. A ratio of two staff members per property enables us to deliver a high level of service and local knowledge - important factors that influence client retention and growth.

“Independents like Cornish Gems are becoming less and less, as acquisitions are at an all-time high.”

A common criticism of the holiday home market is that its success can come to the detriment of housing for locals. And Julianne concedes, more affordable and social housing for locals is needed.

“Our residents are the human resource backbone we need to keep our business community thriving and retain talent here in Cornwall,” she says.

“There are various ways in which this is being

11% 11% 11%

Data supplied courtesy of Alder King’s Market Monitor 2022

10 10 10 10 8 10 8 10 8 86 8 6 86 64 46 64 42 24 42 2 0 02 2 0 0 0 0

454545454545 858585858585 12 1212 1212 12 10 1010 1010 10

350 350 350 350 350 350

19 19 19 19 19 19

17 17 17 17 17 17

245 245 245 245 245 245

21 21 21 21 21 21

20 20 20 20 20 20

21 21 21 21 21 21

18 18 18 18 18 18

19 19 19 19 19 19

20 20 20 20 20 20

17 17 17 17 17 17

18 18 18 18 18 18

19 19 19 19 19 19

20 20 20 20 20 20

145 145 145 145 145 145

150 150 150 150 150 150 18 18 18 18 18 18

9 9 9 99 9

10 year average 311,000 sq ft 10 year average 311,000 sq ft 10 year average 311,000 sq ft 10 year average 311,000 sq ft 10 year average 311,000 sq ft 10 year average 311,000 sq ft Headline rent £psf Headline Headline rent rent £psf £psf Headline Headline rent rent £psf £psf Headline rent £psf

17 17 17 17 17 17

19 20 19 of town 20 Out 19 20 Out of town 19 of town 20 Out 19 20 Out town 19 of 20 Out of town Out of town

21 21 21 21 21 21

101010101010

17 18 17 centre 18 City 17 18 City centre 17 centre 18 City 17 18 City 17 centre 18 City centre City centre

9 9 9 99 9

62% 62% 62%

400 400 400 400 400 300 400 300 300 300 300 200 300 200 200 200 200 100 200 100 100 100 100 0 100 0 0 0 0 0

202020202020

21 21 21 21 21 21

168 168 168 168 168 168

10 year average 173,000 sq ft 10 year average 173,000 sq ft 10 year average 173,000 sq ft 10 year average 173,000 sq ft 10 year average 173,000 sq ft 10 year average 173,000 sq ft Supply 000s sq ft Supply sq ft Supply 000s 000s sq ft Supply sq ft Supply 000s 000s sq ft Supply 000s sq ft

150 150 150 150 150 150 20 20 20 20 20 20

9 9 9 99 9

145% 145% 145%

50505050 5050 19 19 19 19 19 19

250 Take-up 000s sq ft MARKET FACTSHEET: INDUSTRIAL & LOGISTICS 250 Take-up sq ft 250 Take-up 000s 000s sq ft 250 200 Take-up sq ft 250 200 Take-up 000s 000s sq ft 250 200 Take-up 000s sq ft 200 150 200 150 200 150 150 100 150 100 150 100 100 50 100 50 100 50 50 0 50 0 50 0 0 0 0

110110110110 110110

454545454545 87.5 87.5 87.5 87.5 87.5 87.5 18 18 18 18 18 18

12 1212 1212 12 10 1010 1010 10

Out of town Out of town Out of town Out of town Out of town Out of town

21 21 21 21 21 21

17 17 17 17 17 17

100 100 100 100 100 100

0% 0% 0%

20 20 20 20 20 20

380 380 380 380 380 380

City centre City centre City centre City centre City centre City centre

19 19 19 19 19 19

170 170170 170170 170

0% 0% 0%

15 15 15 15 15 15 10 10 10 10 10 105 5 5 5 5 5 0 0 0 0 0 0

18 18 18 18 18 18

13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 10 1010 1010 10

10 year average 130,000 sq ft 10 year average 130,000 sq ft 10 year average 130,000 sq ft 10 year average 130,000 sq ft 10 year average 130,000 sq ft 10 year average 130,000 sq ft Headline rent £psf Headline Headline rent rent £psf £psf Headline Headline rent rent £psf £psf Headline rent £psf

115115115115115115

43% 43% 43%

150 150 150 125 150 125 150 125 150 100 125 100 125 100 125 75 100 75 100 75 100 50 75 50 75 50 75 25 50 25 50 25 50 0 25 0 25 0 25 0 0 0

17 17 17 17 17 17

13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 10 1010 1010 10

10 year average 41,000 sq ft 10 year average 41,000 sq ft 10 year average 41,000 sq ft 10 year average 41,000 sq ft 10 year average 41,000 sq ft 10 year average 41,000 sq ft Supply 000s sq ft Supply sq ft Supply 000s 000s sq ft Supply 000s sq ft Supply 000s sq ft Supply 000s sq ft

13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 10 1010 1010 10

125% 125% 125%

220 220 220 220 220 220

“I’m not sure I have the complete answer, especially when salaries are lower than the national average and house prices are higher than the national average. But Cornish Gems is committed to ensure our salary/remuneration packages are competitive locally and nationally and we’re hoping to create 20-30 new jobs across our office and operational departments over the next 12 months.”

Take-up sq ft Take-up 000s 000s sq ft Take-up 000s sq ft

60 60 60 50 60 50 60 50 60 40 50 40 50 40 50 30 40 30 40 30 40 20 30 20 30 20 30 10 20 10 20 10 20 0 10 0 10 0 10 0 0 0

170 170170 170170 170

“Maybe some regulations amongst the industry will also help? More needs to be done to create additional homes for residents and a better balance between the two.

Take-up FACTSHEET: 000s sq ft MARKET OFFICES Take-up sq ft Take-up 000s 000s sq ft

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9 9 9 99 9

tackled. For example, planning conditions on some regional new build developments restricting second home purchases and 3% additional stamp duty for second homes, which goes towards social housing.

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Feeling

the heat

‘Off-plan’ sales, more readily associated with large urban developments, are also picking up the pace in Cornwall, as the uplift in market values and activity is also sending ripples out to neighbouring Devon.

Cornwall-based housebuilder Acorn Blue, part of Acorn Property Group, has revealed that Cornwall remains one of the most sought-after locations for its new homes, with two of its contemporary developments, Treglos in Constantine Bay, and The Padstow Collection in Padstow, seeing significant sales off-plan (before the homes are completed), with buyers keen to purchase early in order to secure their preferred property in the respective location.

In 2021, Rightmove reported a 140% increase in home-seekers searching for Cornish properties, with 15 million users searching in the first quarter compared to six million the

26 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Demand for coastal Cornish homes shows no sign of slowing: despite a return to work and focus on city pads, Padstow and other coastal communities continue to feel the heat of buyer interest, even for homes not yet built.

year before. Having long been a sought-after location for property, Covid-19 lockdowns led to more buyers then ever wanting access to outside space, outstanding natural environments and a more rural lifestyle, with Cornwall being the top choice.

As living by the coast has been proven to provide health benefits, with those living there invariably rating their own health, both physical and mental, more highly, it is not surprising that coastal living is firmly in vogue.

Cornwall is a sought-after location for a new home with demand outstripping supply

Acorn has a portfolio of unique developments across Cornwall and the south west and has seen unprecedented numbers of enquiries specifically for developments located in Cornwall, even when only initial computer generated images (CGIs) were available for prospective buyers to view, long before completion.

Treglos at Constantine Bay offers a beautiful collection of twenty contemporary apartments, duplexes and penthouses alongside eight 3- and 4-bedroom houses with fantastic sea views. Located on the site of the former Treglos Hotel, the new development is positioned within walking distance of the spectacular golden sand of Constantine Bay and only four miles west of lifestyle hotspot Padstow.

Following incredible off-plan demand for the first phase, the second phase was 60% sold

PROPERTY

even before construction began, and now has only one property remaining.

Located in Padstow, just moments from the sought-after harbour, Acorn’s recent sales release of The Padstow Collection has also proved hugely popular, with 90% of the scheme having been reserved off-plan.

The exclusive collection of just ten 2- and 3-bedroom homes across three buildings will be finished to a luxurious specification and benefit from allocated parking and private outdoor space: a definite boon for homes in this busy town. With views over the Camel Estuary, homes here are perfectly located for enjoying Padstow, nearby Rock, and the spectacular Cornish countryside.

Both developments have great sustainability features too, key for many buyers in Cornwall, who are increasingly prioritising green features when purchasing a new home.

At both developments ground source heat pumps will provide the homes with heating and hot water, made all the more efficient by the use of high performance triple glazed windows. Cabling for the future electric vehicle charging points will also be installed.

The developments each have enhanced U-values (the measure of heat loss) and air tightness, all helping to reduce running costs and carbon footprint.

Stuart Brereton MRICS, regional managing director and land director for Acorn Blue, said: “We are delighted with the buyer demand for Treglos and The Padstow Collection, both of which are very exciting new developments in prime locations.

“More than ever, Cornwall is a sought-after location for a new home with demand outstripping supply. We are committed to a holistic approach to development,

REVIEW

with our projects chosen for thoughtful design and outstanding locations, and this has translated into buyers keen to reserve their dream homes when only preliminary details are available and before construction has even begun.”

Both Treglos in Constantine Bay and The Padstow Collection in Padstow have just one 2 bedroom apartment remaining each priced at £725,000.

For further information please visit www.acornpropertygroup.org or telephone 01637 876000.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 27

PROPERTY

REVIEW

Boom

time!

Cornwall’s property market boom shows no signs of slowing down, says Shore Partnership director Ben Davies.

Last year, Cornwall overtook London as the top-searched location and we’re pleased to report that the property market in Cornwall shows no signs of slowing down.

We sold some of the very best Cornish property in 2021, from period village homes and townhouses to a boutique hotel, holiday apartments, new developments and homes for first-time buyers.

We’ve been thrilled to see some of Cornwall’s most desirable areas highlighted; in the Carbis Bay area alone, we handled almost £10 million worth of property sales within the space of just a few months. The village of Mawnan Smith, near Falmouth and The Helford was also massively successful, as were the north coast resort of Perranporth and of course the main hubs of Truro and Falmouth.

We’re often asked about where our buyers come from, why they’re buying and of course we are always mindful of the pressures that face Cornish housing. Reassuringly, we are pleased to report that over 65% of our sales were to main residence buyers.

28 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

contracts on a superb energy-efficient family home in Kenwyn, Truro. 2 Melin Drive was remodelled by the previous owners, boasting professionally landscaped gardens and a heated pool looking out towards the river and beyond.

A few highlights include:

Two more contemporary Cornish homes that stood out last year were Owl’s House, Lelant, a sensational south-facing home tucked away near St Ives, and the spacious family home of Gwel Teg, situated at the edge of the desirable village of Mawnan Smith.

The spectacular Bosorna in St Mawgan, a secluded and unique home nestled in a leafy valley just inland from the popular beach of Mawgan Porth.

Through our promotion the property reveived over 30 viewings and 17 offers, with a final sale price significantly higher than the asking price.

We’ve put special focus on finding opportunities to support our local community

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS

Trying to predict what’s in store for 2022 is fraught with what-ifs but we

predict an increase in supply as pentup demand from would-be sellers filters through. This will lead to more choice for buyers and, subject to a year free of lockdowns, a more functioning housing market that will be better for everyone.

Another notable sale was Nansloe Manor on the edge of Helston. A Georgian manor house with later 19th and 21st century extensions and one of Cornwall’s most noteworthy historic homes, this property went from launch to completion in just two weeks.

We exchanged within 30 days on Lime Tree House in Penryn, a former vicarage beautifully restored and set within an acre of private grounds.

A short drive away in Truro, we exchanged

In Carbis Bay, we were delighted to complete the sale of five luxury apartments in the exclusive gated development of The Sands, with views towards St Ives.

SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY In a year that was challenging for so many of us, we’ve put special focus on finding opportunities to support our local community.

We have been keen to support grass roots activities that are close to our hearts and we will continue this throughout 2022.

We’re incredibly grateful to be living and working in this wonderful county, and we’ve been honoured to be able to give back to our beloved community through our sponsorship of local organisations and community programmes, including Mylor Sailability, Loe Beach Regatta, Field to Forest and Truro Choral Society.

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Where you live matters contact@shorepartnership.com 01872 484484 shorepartnership.com

01872 277397 | email: enq@sbcproperty.com

www.sbcproperty.com

Daniell House, Falmouth Road, Truro, Cornwall TR1 2HX

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 29

PROPERTY

REVIEW

TRECOMBE LAKES

LANGARTH BWN

30 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

PROPERTY

REVIEW

Living in

harmony

Cornwall Environment Consultants MD, Natasha Collings-Costello, explains how CEC is supporting the work of Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

Cornwall Environment Consultants (CEC) was established by Cornwall Wildlife Trust in 1992 in order to provide top quality ecological advice.

Since that time CEC has expanded the services it offers to include landscape architecture, contaminated land assessment, carbon calculations, phosphate impact assessment and sustainability and policy advice.

CEC’s clients include everyone from householders who want to build an extension, and need to know if their property hosts bats, to multi-million-pound highway construction schemes. Increasingly CEC are approached by business owners and landowners who would like to make their businesses land holdings better for wildlife and the environment. CEC also works with many developers who have understood the value of green infrastructure in their developments and ask CEC to help assess and design nature friendly places for people to live.

TRECOMBE LAKES

LANGARTH BWN

When the owners of a development of luxury holiday retreats in the Cornish countryside wanted to expand, they turned to CEC for help.

Situated near Falmouth close to the beautiful Helford River, the landscape surrounding the properties comprises a mix of woodland and ponds. Working closely with the architects and planning consultant, CEC delivered a combined package of ecological, arboriculture, landscape design and assessment services to support the owner’s planning application. The project was granted planning permission largely as a result of the application having addressed all sensitive issues in an easy-tounderstand manner.

CEC was involved from the start of the Langarth Garden Village proposals, undertaking ecological surveys to inform masterplanning and the subsequent planning application. With our knowledge of the site and project, CEC were the natural choice to undertake the Building with Nature assessment of the scheme, which has been accredited to Design Award. This award provides recognition of the high-quality green infrastructure within the scheme which has been designed to provide a multi-functional network with benefits for people, wildlife and water.

In the last 30 years CEC has given more that £1 million of unrestricted funds to CWT

This year CEC will celebrate its 30th birthday, as well as the fact that in the last 30 years it has given more that £1 million of unrestricted funds to CWT to spend on its conservation work. To the left is a sample of some of CEC’s projects from over the years, as well as some of the projects they have helped to fund at CWT.

SOUTH WEST WATER INVASIVE SPECIES ASSESSMENT CEC undertook surveys on 21 sites in Cornwall, recording and mapping all invasive species within or immediately adjacent to these sites. CEC’s work involved compilation and extraction of data from our own reports and those of four other consultancies (the report covered 58 sites in total), creating easy to read tables, summarising results, identifying the key findings and presenting the findings of a site risk matrix. As a result of CEC’s work, this project won a Pennon Environment Award.

Today we continue to work with the Langarth team, and we are currently shaping a Suitable Alternative Nature Greenspace (SANG) site of over 20 hectares which will help provide a place for local people to walk, run, picnic and relax. The SANG site takes in a Scheduled Ancient Monument, green lanes, and woodland slopes, and will help reduce recreational pressure on the nearby Penhale Dunes Special Area of Conservation, a sand dune system internationally ltd designated for its importance.

cornwall environmental consultants cornwall environmental consultants ltd

www.cecenvironment.co.uk 01872 245510

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 31

BUSINESS

CLINIC

In the first of a new series of advice-led articles, retail expert Michèle Poynter starts us off by sharing her top tips for retail success.

THE BUSINESS CLINIC

Since the pandemic began we’ve seen a shift in shoppers’ behaviour with a significant rise in searches for “ethical online shopping” “available near me” and “in stock”.

The Google Retail Trends Report 2021 noted that over 50% of consumers found at least one new form of online shopping, it also reports that there has been a marked rise in movements such as “shop local and support small businesses”, and that more than ever before, consumers are looking for ideas and shopping inspiration online.

As an independent retailer there are many things we can do to maximise the potential from these changes in buyers’ behaviour that big companies can’t do so well. Here are my top 4 tips Give customers what they want, not what they ask for It might sound strange but often this creates happier customers who spend more. For example, customers can often ask for a black bra, but what they really want is a bra to wear under dark coloured clothing. I can sell them that black bra and on the surface they would be happy, however, they’ve walked 32 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

through the shop past the pretty patents and bright colours and they’re leaving with a plain black bra. When we rephrase the question for the customer and say “would you like something to wear under a dark coloured top?” we are then able to turn the process from a transaction to an experience a bit like shopping in an old fashioned sweet shop. The customer more often than not leaves the shop with a number of bras and it probably doesn’t even include a black one!

Embrace technology and the tools out there

Share your story, people are interested in people

There are many ways to do this without spending a lot of money. There are obvious ones like showing items you sell on your social media accounts, but you can go a step further and create a Facebook shop. You can also add products/collections you sell to your Google My Business, this allows customers to see what you stock before they visit you, and help own your mobile footprint.

If you offer appointments, a great tool is an online booking platform. These don’t only free up your time, booking in the actual

appointments, they send customers reminder, allow them to amend/cancel their bookings which in turn reduces no shows.

Content is key As the Google report said, people are looking online for inspiration. So, write blogs, make videos, send emails, engage your customers on social media, find your groove and make it interesting, insightful and inspiring. Share your story, people are interested in people.

They also love to see behind the scenes, and processes step by step.

Under promise and overdeliver In a time when Covid and Brexit are making the supply so very challenging, if there is a small chance that something is going to take two weeks for you to organise or to be delivered, tell them it’s going to take two weeks and let them be delighted if you contact them in a week.

These small yet significant changes can help you stay ahead in an everchanging retail landscape.

Michèle Poynter is a retail guru with over 18 years’ experience. She is the CEO of Mish, the multi-award-winning, multi-channel, lingerie retailer and more recently, the founder of retail consultancy, The Retail Fixers, which offers consultancy, workshops guidance to online & high street clients large and small.

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PEOPLE

ON THE MOVE

ALF NAMED HEAD OF OPS Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust has appointed a new head of operations.

NEW CEO AT WILDANET Helen Wylde has been announced as chief executive officer at broadband provider Wildanet while Paul Buttery has joined the board as chair.

Andrew ‘Alf’ Evans comes from a military background, with extensive experience in aviation, operations and survival training.

Most recently, he has spent the last 11 years serving as head of operations at emergency disaster relief charity Shelterbox.

Chief executive Tim Bunting said: “We are delighted to welcome Alf to the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust leadership team.

Managing operations effectively is vital to keeping the charity running smoothly and our helicopter in the air, and we believe that Alf’s experience will help us to keep flying

Wylde joined the Wildanet board as a nonexec director in 2021 as part of a strategy that would see her assume the role of CEO in 2022. An expert in innovation and digital transformation, her experience spans Vodafone, O2, Parcelforce and the Transport Systems & Connected Places Catapult.

FAMILY VALUES Cornish legal firm Hine Downing has welcomed Katie Nightingale into its family law team.

Nightingale begins the new year with the Falmouth-based practice having honed her skills in all areas of family law over 15 years with firms in Berkshire and Middlesex.

34 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Evans added: “Working for Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust has always been the dream, and I feel like the culmination of my previous experience has been moving towards this point.

“This charity is about helping people on the worst day of their life. When it happens, you are part of the team that’s ready to come and make their worst day better. I can’t imagine a better reason to wake up in the morning.”

NEW HARBOUR MASTER

Paul Buttery is the former chief operating officer at Virgin Media, where he led the sales, service and network expansion divisions, including overseeing the provider’s Project Lightning roll out of Virgin Media’s network across the UK. He has more than 40 years’ experience in the telecommunications industry spanning BT, Verizon, Cable & Wireless and NTL:Telewest.

“I’m delighted to be taking this role,” said Wylde. “Wildanet is a dynamic, customerfocussed business with innovation at its core and a clear mission to drive digital inclusion.

We have a fantastic team here, united by a passion that we’re not just in business to offer a service; we are making sure that future generations of people in Cornwall and the south west are connected to the internet, can work wherever they want to work and have access to all the opportunities that fast, reliable broadband opens up.”

and saving lives well into the future.”

Prior to leading the development of multimillion-pound ports, he served as master in the Merchant Navy for several years. Before that, he skippered both deep-water and near-water fishing vessels.

Meanwhile, Roger Nowell has been appointed to the role of deputy harbour master, joining Jedna Hall who is already in post.

Newlyn Pier & Harbour Commissioners (NP & HC) has appointed a new harbour master and CEO. Cliff Brand, who is originally from the north east, is an experienced harbour master whose previous job roles have included CEO of Gibraltar Port Authority; Harbour Master of Harwich Haven Authority and CEO of RAK Ports, the maritime gateway to the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.

Having skippered small inshore vessels and large beam trawlers, he is a well-respected fisherman and is ideally placed to come ashore and manage the harbour’s quays.

NP & HC chairman Rob Wing said: “We are delighted to welcome Cliff and Roger to the Newlyn Harbour team at an important moment in our history and look forward to working with them to safeguard and develop the port for the future.”

“This is an exciting time to be joining such a highly respected and friendly firm, working in the area of law I am passionate about, in the county where I was born,” she said.

“Family law is sensitive and delicate and it’s so important to help clients get it right.”

Kerys Deavin, head of family at Hine Downing, added: “Katie is a great asset and she is further strengthening our like-minded family team at Hine Downing.”

KATIE NIGHTINGALE AND KERYS DEAVIN

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BUSINESS CORNWALL | 35

TOURISM

NEWS

NEW OWNERSHIP A Lincolnshire businessman who has holidayed with his family in Cornwall for over three decades has purchased the hotel they return to year-in-year-out, Polurrian on the Lizard.

Travel Sector Property Limited (TSPL) has concluded its off-market acquisition of Hotel Polurrian Limited, owner of the freehold interest in Polurrian on the Lizard and its

SPONSORED BY surrounding 12 acres of grounds, inclusive of part of the Polurrian Cove beach.

Andrew Long, principal director of TSPL, said: “We are delighted to have acquired the Polurrian, which has many happy memories for my family and I since first discovering this wonderful location some 32 years ago.

We are proud to own this iconic hotel and to further endorse our Cornwall connections.”

This is a going concern transaction and all employees at the Polurrian, including

www.visitcornwall.com

the general manager, Grant Callaghan, will continue to be employed. The new owners have also entered into a management agreement with the vendor group, Luxury Hotel Management Limited under the helm of Nigel Chapman, with a number of plans for further investment in the Polurrian to enhance the existing facilities.

SUMMER BOOKINGS SURGE

TOURISM AWARDS WINNERS

With travel restrictions easing and the requirement to test for vaccinated visitors to the UK removed, summer bookings to Cornwall from German visitors are surging, according to destination management company Cornwall DMC.

of the Year’ in this year’s Cornwall Tourism Awards. After bouncing back from what has been an exceptionally difficult couple of years for so many in the hospitality industry, this confirms the passion and efforts our dedicated team has always delivered.

Without them, such awards would not have been possible.”

Although still well below pre-Covid levels, Cornwall DMC director, Niall MacDougall, says reservations for hotels, B&Bs and holiday cottages have for the first time shown strong growth running at approximately 35%-40% of 2019 levels.

“Using exclusive data from our number one ranked German B2C travel website for holidays in Cornwall, it’s the first meaningful rebound in bookings since the start of the pandemic,” said MacDougall.

“Against the backdrop of the expected relaxation of rules across parts of Europe and Scandinavia, consumer confidence for inbound travel to the UK is clearly growing.

The removal of the UK from list of ‘countries of concern’ would provide a further impetus to reinforce this trend.”

ADVERTORIAL

The winners have been revealed for the 2021/22 Cornwall Tourism Awards.

An online event, hosted last month by Daphne Skinnard and Robin Barker, saw 66 awards presented across 22 categories, with four awards held back for a face-toface event next month.

Among the winners, Tregoad Holiday Park was named Holiday Park of the Year, while also taking Silver in the Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Tourism category.

Among other winners were Carlyon Bay Hotel which was named Large Hotel of the Year and the Idle Rocks in St Mawes, which scooped double Gold with Small Hotel of the Year and Restaurant of the Year categories.

Owner Karen Richards said: “We are delighted to have been awarded best ‘Restaurant of the Year’ and ‘Small Hotel

Malcolm Bell, head of Visit Cornwall, added: “After two very challenging years, it is very exciting and also gratifying to see the dedication of the finalists to drive up quality, despite there being a pandemic with all its twists and turns to cope with – a very big well done to all of you.”

Winners in most categories will be automatically considered for the regional South West Tourism Excellence Awards later in the year, with many going on to be nominated to represent the region in the national VisitEngland awards. The 2022/23 awards are planned to be launched in April.

For a list of all the winners and commended, go to cornwalltourismawards.co.uk

INFLUENCERS & THE LEISURE AND TOURISM INDUSTRY Amy Ralston, a solicitor at Stephens Scown LLP, advises leisure and tourism businesses to make sure they are compliant with consumer protection law when using influencers…

Amy Ralston specialises in influencer marketing, brand endorsement and the regulation of the same. To discuss any issues raised in this article, please call 01392 210700 or email influencers@stephens-scown.co.uk

36 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

www.truro-penwith.ac.uk

EDUCATION &

SPONSORED BY

Top employers and chefs from Cornwall’s hospitality sector delivered a week-long lineup of demonstrations and masterclasses to inspire the next generation at Truro and Penwith College.

Paul Ainsworth, Rick Stein Group, Michael Caines Collection, St Austell Brewery, Watergate Bay Hotel, Healeys and Flying Fish Seafoods were just some of the 20 employers serving up the mouth-watering sessions.

The annual ‘Employer Week’ was organised

COOKING UP A STORM

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

by tutors and the college’s Hospitality Table Cornwall project. The week was designed to inspire students while increasing awareness of the varied careers in the sector and raising aspirations as they rub shoulders with some of the biggest names in the industry.

Almost 3,400 people have started an apprenticeship in Cornwall with the latest figures showing that numbers have held steady despite disruption caused by the pandemic.

Mark Lewin, training and development consultant at the college, commented: “A huge thank you to the chefs and employers for offering students an incredible opportunity to hone their skills. The experiences will stay with them throughout their training and well beyond as they embark on careers in the sector.”

SPACE APPRENTICESHIP LAUNCHES Applications have opened for the south west’s first space apprenticeship.

Developed and delivered by Truro and Penwith College’s Cornwall Space and Aerospace Technology Training (CSATT) project, the two-year Space Engineering Technician Apprenticeship allows learners to gain the future skills needed to work in spacecraft manufacturing and design, satellite telecommunications and rocket propulsion.

The first apprentices will join the programme in September, splitting their time between the workplace and the new £7 million Valency building, part of the South West Institute of Technology at the Truro College campus.

The college’s University Centre is enhancing Leisure and Tourism businesses are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of an influencer’s ability to market directly to the business’ target market. However, it is important to fully understand the rules and regulations of influencer marketing, one of which is the need to comply with consumer protection law, which can and has been enforced by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

WHAT IS THE LAW? The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 (CPRs) aim to prevent unfair practices being used by traders and businesses when dealing with consumers.

They include a duty for businesses to act

TRAINING

the apprenticeship with an additional HNC in Space Technology that learners will study alongside their apprenticeship at no cost.

Heidi Thiemann, space project manager of the College’s CSATT project, said: “As opportunities in space in Cornwall continue to grow, we’re excited to know that our future students will be working at the forefront of space exploration.

Our apprentices will be key to providing businesses with the next generation of skilled workers.”

Martin Tucker, principal at Truro and Penwith College, added: “This new, groundbreaking apprenticeship is a hugely exciting development for one of the key sectors in Cornwall’s future economy.” in a fair and honest way, which extends to the way leisure and tourism is marketed – including ad content on social media and any advertisement by influencers or social-media content creators.

The regulations prohibit businesses from omitting, hiding or presenting information in an unclear way on social media to promote a service where a business has paid in some way (including gifted stays) for the promotion without making that clear in the content that it is advertorial content.

Latest available figures published by Cornwall Apprenticeships, which is a free service aimed at helping local employers take on apprentices, show that in the 12 months to July 2021 there were 3,390 apprenticeship ‘new starts’ in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. This compares with 3,400 in the previous 12 months, a drop of just ten.

The number of people taking advanced and higher-level apprenticeships increased significantly by 130. And almost half of all people who started an apprenticeship were over 25, in increase of almost 10% year on year.

Health, public services and care remain the most popular professions to start an apprenticeship, followed by retail and commercial enterprise; business, administration and law; and engineering and manufacturing. Although both these latter categories saw a drop on the previous year. Construction, planning and the built environment was also a popular area.

Cathie Kessell, employment and apprenticeships lead at Cornwall Apprenticeships, said: “We’re hugely encouraged to see Cornish employers continuing to take on apprentices despite the impacts of covid, and to see a significant increase in advanced and higher-level learning.” are responsible for ensuring compliance with CPRs. The business has a responsibility to ensure that all posts promoting them are compliant with consumer protection law.

The CMA has statutory powers to investigate any breaches, which could lead to a case being brought against your business, so it is important that businesses understand these regulations and implement risk-mitigating strategies for online brand promotions.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE? Businesses, social-media platforms, social media influencer agencies and influencers BUSINESS CORNWALL | 37

CREATIVE

AND DIGITAL

SPONSORED BY

www.digitalpeninsula.org

DROPPING THE FILTER A Penryn-based social media agency is taking a stand against the quest for perfection online, by vowing to ‘drop the filter’ on its own images.

The team at Oh So Social have SOPHIE KESSELL, KATHERINE GEORGE AND CATHERINE WILSON seen first-hand the effects social media can have on an individual’s mental health, She said: “It’s no secret that I have with the heavily edited and filtered images experienced my own challenges with posted across Instagram and Facebook, for mental health, and I am vocal about raising example, impacting on users’ self-esteem awareness of the impact of social media and overall mental wellbeing. on our mental health across my own channels. So, I thought it was about time An advocate for raising awareness of the we practiced what we preach. importance of mental health, Oh So Social director Katherine George has taken the “As a team, we’re pledging to drop the filter step to protect the Oh So Social team and will no longer be editing images for all from the mental toll of working daily in of our new team photos and any headshots social media, with the hope that others will used across our website, social media, and follow suit. externally, such as for event publicity.”

GOING GLOBAL Global communications agency Clarity has announced that local marketing executives Will Julian-Vicary and Tom Telford have been elevated to new global roles.

The two will continue to work out of the Cornwall office and have ambitious plans to continue growing, building upon the creative and innovative tech scene that is burgeoning in the region.

Clarity expanded into Cornwall last year, following the acquisition of 3WhiteHats.

The Search Social and Analytics (SSA) team grew to 21 people across four Clarity offices, with the Cornwall team making up 13 of those team members. The team is continuing to expand and plans to add six new team members in the coming months, as Clarity expands its global work outside of traditional PR. In his new role as president of digital marketing, former 3WhiteHats MD Telford will oversee global responsibility for ensuring success and growth of Clarity’s digital marketing proposition.

Julian-Vicary’s transition to global head of technology will bring a wide variety of new responsibilities, ideating and creating proprietary tech solutions.

38 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

CULTURE CLUB Cornwall’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2025 has moved another step closer with the launch of a new website.

Cornwall is among eight regions in the UK vying for the prestigious title having been whittled down from 20 expressions of interest last year.

The new website, www.cornwall2025.com, explains the reasons behind Cornwall’s bid, what it hopes to achieve, and showcases the wealth of creative and cultural talent that already exists in Cornwall and how City of Culture status would build on that foundation.

The site has been designed by Studio Felt from Lostwithiel and paid for with a grant from DCMS that has been awarded to all bidding regions to support the bidding process.

The bid says City of Culture status would generate £119 million of direct benefit to

PHOTO CREDIT: STEVE TANNER Cornwall’s economy and create almost 500 jobs, while continuing to grow Cornwall’s burgeoning creative industries sector. The long-term economic benefits could run into hundreds of millions of pounds, some £870 million in total.

Cornwall’s bid is being led by the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership whose chief executive, Glenn Caplin-Grey, said: “The culture and the creative industries are a massive social and economic opportunity for Cornwall and being UK City of Culture would be a huge boost for jobs and skills in a region that needs investment to close the gap with the rest of the UK.” The official bid has been submitted and a shortlist will be announced later this month.

The winner of City of Culture 2025 will be announced in May.

NEWS

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#FSBCONNECT

FSB APPLAUDS LOCAL VOLUNTEERS members to volunteer to play a key role in giving a big voice to the small business community with political decision-makers and other stakeholders at all levels across the UK. TV presenter Kate Humble hosted an online ‘Volunteer Recognition’ celebration, where more than 130 entrepreneurs were given thanks for the contribution they make on behalf of small businesses in their local areas.

Among those honoured from the Cornwall volunteer team are area leads Clare Trice of CTCC Credit Solutions and

KATE HUMBLE PRESENTING FSB VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION EVENT Leading small business owners from the Cornwall area, who volunteer to support the wider SME community via the UK’s biggest business representation group, have been recognised at a high-profile national event.

The FSB provides opportunities for its

Edward Chapman (Trailrunning Man), together with volunteer business representative Catherine Smith (Catherine Smith Accountants) and representative to FSB policy unit Craig Carey-Clinch (Rowan Public Affairs).

Clare Trice, who is also an area lead volunteer for FSB Cornwall, said: “This Volunteer Recognition event has left me feeling very proud and humbled to be among so many amazing volunteers from around the country. We have so much to learn from other volunteers and so much to offer businesses here in Cornwall.”

SMALL FIRMS LEFT OUT IN THE COLD Responding to the news that the Government-launched support measures to mitigate the impacts of rising energy bills for households and the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee increasing the base rate, the FSB has expressed concern for the lack of consideration of businesses as costs are rising and inflation bites.

A lot of small business owners will be feeling a double hit. First off, exclusion from the Chancellor’s statement regarding support for those struggling with energy bills.

And second, a rate rise that will increase repayments on a good deal of personal and professional debt, adding to existing cashflow woes just as tax rises loom.

The organisation is clear that the Government is, of course, right to help households with rising costs. However, there should be help for the smallest firms too, which face many of the same challenges as consumers in the energy market, but without the same protections. The household rebate should be matched by an equivalent business rates rebate, to help the smallest firms which have been weathering these price increases for months already, and which desperately need a measure of protection from the energy crisis storm.

Planned support via the council tax system will leave struggling community cafes, convenience stores and restaurants wondering, where is the support via the business rates system? Equally, where is the help to spread bills for the small businesses that create jobs and ensure growth in local economies? These are the very businesses which will be key to the success of the levelling-up agenda, yet the day after the white paper was revealed, they’ve been left out in the cold.

FSB is calling for Government to minimise the risk of sending viable businesses to the wall and take steps like, expand Pay As You Grow to cover CBILS as well as bounce-backs. It is also encouraging policymakers to look again at FSB proposals to enable those with emergency debt, who are just about clinging on, to convert bounce back loans into employee equity stakes thereby alleviating pressures on small firms and spurring productivity.

TEN CORNISH BUSINESSES IN THE FINAL OF THE SW HEAT OF THE FSB AWARDS

WINNERS AT THE PREVIOUS AWARDS Ten Cornish businesses were in the final of the south west heat of the FSB Awards - Mish, ARCO2 Architecture, Freda’s Peanut Butter, Mother Ivey’s Bay Holiday Park, Harwoods South West, Innovoli, Cosmos Currency Exchange, Your Partnerships, Clean Hands Technologies and Steren Surveyors. Winners were due to be announced on March 2, head over to fsbawards.co.uk to see who won.

On top of all the struggles that small firms are facing, the Government is set to impose a sharp rise in National Insurance contributions and dividend taxation, hitting everyone who works for a living, and all businesses regardless of their current profitability. It’s not too late for a change in course – but the FSB says that it must come sooner rather than later.

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 | 39

FOOD

& DRINK

RODDA’S GOES B CORP

Rodda’s has become the latest Cornish company to secure B Corp status.

The Scorrier-based clotted cream producer joins the likes of Leap, Finisterre and Origin Coffee to be certified by B Lab, the not-forprofit behind the B Corp movement.

The rigorous year-long certification process covers the entirety of a business’ operations, ensuring the highest social and environmental standards are met.

Rodda’s is a strong supporter of local farming families, selecting farms within a 30-mile radius of the creamery to supply milk. Each is required to pass their bespoke farm assurance, covering animal welfare to the highest level. In return they are offered support and advice, and a fair price for their milk.

NEW CORNISH GIN Mainbrace has extended its spirits range in the form of a craft gin.

Mainbrace Cornish Dry Gin was launched on February 6 to coincide with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

It is made with Cornish water and local botanicals, namely lemon verbena harvested from St Michaels Mount, and three different types of seaweed – Kelp, Dulse, and Sea Spaghetti – sourced from the Cornish Seaweed Company in Gweek.

Co-founder Richard Haigh said: “We have lots of exciting plans in the works and are especially looking forward to ‘splicing the mainbrace’ to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022.”

40 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

MD Nicholas Rodda said: “We are always challenging ourselves to do better, and this accreditation, which rubberstamps the work we’ve always done, marks a defining moment in the company’s development.”

Meanwhile, Rodda’s has secured a major new distribution deal with Tesco for its clotted cream, across its national retail estate totaling more than 800 stores.

“This national listing within Tesco is a watershed moment for the brand,” said Rodda.

“We have big ambitions to increase awareness of Rodda’s on a national level, so the opportunity to be listed nationally in new geographic areas will help us to showcase the brand to new audiences, who haven’t previously been able to purchase our clotted cream.”

TOP FOODIE PUBS Two St Austell Brewery-owned pubs have been named among the top foodie pubs in Britain.

The St Kew Inn in Bodmin and the Cornish Arms up in Tavistock, Devon, both feature in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list.

While it’s the ninth year that the Cornish Arms has featured, moving up two places this year to #14, it’s the first time that the St Kew Inn has made the top 50, ranking at 36.

Jim Sloan, head of St Austell Brewery’s tenanted estate, said: “Featuring on this list is a big achievement on a national scale, and we’re extremely proud to be working in partnership with such fantastic teams.”

BOOM BOX Hub Box, the Cornwall-based burger and barbecue business, has reported a record set of results.

Total sales for the 11-strong restaurant group for the financial year ending December 31, saw a 75% increase on the previous 12 months to £12.6 million. Earnings (before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) rose to £1.47 million, up from £539k.

Like-for-like sales for the 33 weeks following the easing of restrictions on the May 17 were +25.1% against 2019.

Hub Box, which counts Loungers’ co-founders Alex Reilley, who chairs the business, and Jake Bishop amongst its backers, opened two new sites in the financial year in Falmouth in June and Cheltenham in September.

Richard Boon, CEO and founder, said: “We are very pleased with how well the business

has performed, particularly given that we were unable to trade our sites fully for over a third of the year.

“We used the various lockdowns well to focus on improving our proposition, being ready to make the most of when we were able to trade, and building an infrastructure fit for ambitious growth.”

And the business plans to expand beyond its traditional south west. “We believe that between coastal locations and major towns/ cities in the UK there is scope for 100+ sites and we are busy negotiating on a number of opportunities as we gradually look to ramp up the Hub Box roll-out.”

CHAMBER

SPONSORED BY

cornwallchamber.co.uk

NEWS

START YOUR ENGINES! CORNWALL CHAMBER CHIEF EXECUTIVE, KIM CONCHIE, LOOKS AHEAD TO THIS YEAR’S CORNWALL FESTIVAL OF BUSINESS AND THE 30 UNDER 30 AWARDS. It feels like a matter of weeks ago that we announced the 2021, 30 under 30 winners, but here we are again scouting for a brandnew set of budding entrepreneurs doing brilliant things here in Cornwall.

These fantastic awards are now in their seventh year, and I never get bored of reading the success stories of young people who are thriving in Cornwall.

If you know of any family, friends or colleagues under the age of 30 on March 18, 2022, who reflect the passion and creativity our young people are bringing to the Duchy’s business scene, please put them forward. You could even enter yourself!

At the Chamber, January gave us time to do some really important strategic thinking about what we need to achieve for the business community in 2022; the big events that we have wanted to put on for the last

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

Get in touch today to have a chat about how we can support you and your business.

two years and couldn’t, and the campaigns we should be getting behind with all our might.

Cornwall Festival of Business will be here before we know it. Over the course of a week in June (1317), Cornwall’s business community will have the opportunity to attend around 60 free events throughout the Duchy, from small seminars and workshops to the centrepiece of the week: Cornwall Business Fair.

This year, our Business Fair takes on a new role, addressing the future of business here in Cornwall.

We will use the largest celebration of the innovative, forward-looking businesses and business support in The Duchy to address the importance of sustainability and opportunities presented by the green industrial revolution.

Around 80 stands will be complemented by demonstrations, immersive business experiences, panel discussions, networking, training and fun events throughout the day. If you haven’t yet booked your stand or you’re interested in sponsorship and advertising opportunities, please contact jessica@ cornwallchamber.co.uk There’s no limit on the amount of events we can hold during festival week, so if you have an idea or would like to host, please get in touch.

If you haven’t guessed already from our themed Business Fair, our big focus for this year is sustainability and regeneration of the planet. In September, with kind sponsorship from Don’t Cry Wolf, we will bring you Planet C: a melange of activities spread over four days, all focused around the role we can play in healing the planet and the responsibility we have to turn things around.

The four-day focus will include our annual Sustainability Conference, which last year attracted international media attention with our line-up of HRH The Prince of Wales, Sir Patrick Vallance, Sir Tim Smit , Kate Kennally and many more.

Also up our sleeves is a B Corp panel event,

beach clean and EV show. Excitement is mounting and organisations have already started booking their activities. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are available for each day, and you can co-host or jointly organise events on Planet themes. If you would like to be involved, let us know asap.

Contact darren@cornwallchamber.co.uk Finally, hopefully you will have read my opinion piece in Business Cornwall urging the business community to make 2022 the year of productivity. It’s a major focus of the Chamber’s this year and in the article I urge businesses to really try and grasp what productivity means.

Cornwall Chamber of Commerce is running a series of events to help businesses work out how fewer people could produce what their customers are demanding. If we can crack this, we can accelerate economic growth and make doing business easier for everyone.

Simple things like making sure knowledge and information is shared effectively throughout an organisation can make all the difference. Keep an eye on our website for details of upcoming events on this important subject.

Keep talking, keep collaborating, and keep asking for help if you need it. Your local Chamber is always at the end of the phone and we’re actively looking for exciting new event ideas and venues.

Email: hello@cornwallchamber.co.uk Call: 01209 216006 Online: www.cornwallchamber.co.uk BUSINESS CORNWALL | 41

OPINION

JUST A THOUGHT

42 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

JUST A THOUGHT

OPINION

Ben Hall, director of Newquay-based festival organiser Quick Panda Productions, explains his thrill at a return to live music and events.

The buzz

is back

When the pandemic first hit, as with many industries, events and live music took such a beating that initially it was uncertain as to whether many could survive.

The main ethos of people within the events industry it would seem, is to adapt and improvise to unpredictable circumstances. There is a ‘show must go on’ kind of mentality that drives everyone to deliver the seemingly impossible at times.

an investment that funds the amazing world within the fence line.

This magic is what gave us the break we needed.

Rather than panic and demand refunds, most people held on to their tickets and came along for the crazy ride.

With each postponement came a barrage of well wishes and support from many festival goers that kept cheering us on. It became clear that people would not give up their tickets, but instead clung to positivity in the face of adversity.

Paid for by the people and delivered by a group of incredibly special crew, artists and creative legends that always keep the wheels turning.

This magic is what gave us the break we needed

Everyone that I saw around me utilised the time where events and music were stifled, to harness that very spirit to keep the creative flames fanned and to carry on, regardless of the situation. Rather than giving in and falling into negativity, quite the opposite seemed to be happening.

With a thirst for the buzz of live music, crowds of thousands interact in a way that allow you to escape the realms of normality and head to a fairy tale land - if only for a weekend.

Once the gates to our first event opened since the pandemic, the buzz in the air was palpable, never again would this magic be taken for granted and what a bond it created for all those that held on and kept positive.

Bringing joy and escapism to so many, bringing back creative outlets for those that had been forced out of their professions as artists. The positivity to mental health that is gained from meeting new friends, dancing wildly and living freely really is more than just a bit of fun, it is lifesaving - a necessity as part of one’s own wellbeing.

Long may the arts be cherished as such.

It made me truly proud to see friends and colleagues starting up new businesses, taking on jobs that they’d never usually consider, just doing whatever it took to make ends meet, with zero ego attached and a positivity that prevailed. The same positivity that events just could not exist without.

As event after event got postponed, we worried that perhaps we too would crumble.

We were looking for alternatives to replace our once thriving business to keep us afloat.

Perhaps we would break under the financial stress with the huge demand for ticket refunds, however, something brilliant came to light. The love of music and festivals became more apparent than ever.

The main reason events can go ahead is due to the ticket holders, each person that buys a ticket becomes a shareholder, supplying BUSINESS CORNWALL | 43

UPCOMING

EVENTS

MARCH

EVENTS 2-3

MARCH 2022

EXPOWEST CORNWALL

9

Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge After what seems like forever, Expowest Cornwall is back!

Cornwall’s hospitality & catering tradeshow will be open on Wednesday 2nd and Thursday 3rd March, at the Royal Cornwall Showground in Wadebridge. expowestcornwall.co.uk

3

PENZANCE BUSINESS BREAKFAST

TRURO CAREERS FAIR Alverton Hotel, Truro Are you looking for a new career? The Truro Careers Fair will offer candidates from all backgrounds, experience and education levels the opportunity to speak to representatives from an abundance of local employers, all in one place.

19

CORNISH PIRATES V HARTPURY Mennaye Field, Penzance Championship rugby action as the Cornish Pirates take on Harptury. For the full match day experience, why not try a hospitality package – the perfect way to entertain clients and colleagues alike. cornish-pirates.com

eventbrite.co.uk

16

The Exchange, Penzance An informal breakfast meeting for business owners & professionals & anyone with an interest in Penzance & Cornwall.

KING NETWORKING

YOUR PARTNERSHIPS CELEBRATION PARTY

Victoria Inn, Threemilestone

Penventon Hotel, Redruth

Members each give a one-minute presentation on their business and the kinds of referral they would particularly value. Other elements include introduction of guests and an opportunity for announcements.

For the first time since 2020, Your Partnerships will have the chance to celebrate with a party.

Includes: Black tie affair, 3 course meal, disco and dancing, casino tables, awards presentation.

king-networking.com

yourpartnerships.co.uk

eventbrite.co.uk

4

PRINCIPALS OF THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY Woodlane Valley Farm, Ladock

17

YOUR PARTNERSHIPS OPEN HOUSE Victoria Inn, Roche

Half day workshop to find out how the circular economy will benefit your business, keeping you at the cutting edge of innovative solutions to global challenges.

This is the original home of Your Partnerships and this is always a great meeting. If you have never experienced an Open House with Your Partnerships at the birth home of Your Partnerships you are missing out.

eventbrite.co.uk

yourpartnerships.co.uk

30

CORNWALL CHAMBER BIG BREAKFAST Cornish Pirates RFC, Penzance This event has the best of both worlds. Not only is it a great networking opportunity as the room will be filled with people who may be able to help grow your business, but there will also be an inspirational and informative speaker. cornwallchamber.co.uk

CORNWALL CHAMBER LUNCH

AN INTRODUCTION TO INNOVATION

Trenderway Farm, Looe

Falcon House, Truro

Join Cornwall Chamber of Commerce at Trenderway Farm for a delicious networking lunch served in the idyllic surroundings of the countryside.

Join Business Innovation Officer Mark Harris for an interactive workshop understanding innovation and how it can impact your business.

cornwallchamber.co.uk

aticornwallinnovation.co.uk

44 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

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

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CONNECTED

CORNWALL

JO HANCOCK (ATI2) ADDRESSES VISITORS

TRURO POP-UP INNOVATION CENTRE Located on the lower ground floor of Falcon House, the Truro Pop-up Innovation Centre, delivered by the ATI2 programme, offers companies the chance to utilise office facilities, meeting and events rooms.

MAYOR OF TRURO STEVEN TAYLOR OFFICIALLY OPENED THE CENTRE

CREATIVE COALITION FESTIVAL Top creatives from across the UK gathered in the Eden Project’s rainforest biome, exploring the role of creativity in tackling the climate emergency.

Photos: © David Spink Photography

FEHINTI BALOGUN AND DR ALEXANDRA DAISY GINSBERG

EMILY BROWN AND MARK JENKIN

SIR NICHOLAS SEROTA

CHARLOTTE BOND & CULTURE AND THE CLIMATE EMERGENCY PANEL 46 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

MATT HOCKING

SIR TIM SMIT

CONNECTED

CORNWALL

SENIOR EXECUTIVES’ FORUM

At the latest gathering of the Senior Executives’ Forum, held at the Alverton in Truro, members and guests heard from Cornwall Council CRO Kate Kennally and Cornwall College John Evans.

TIM SMART (SMART COMMERCIAL PROPERTY), TONI EYRIEY (TONICK BUSINESS PUBLISHING) AND SAM WELLER (PZAZZ CONSULTANTS)

JAMIE SMITH (EIGHT WIRE), CHARLIE MAPLES (FOOT ANSTEY) AND IAN WHITE (PARTNERS & INSURANCE)

KATE KENNALLY (CHIEF EXECUTIVE, CORNWALL COUNCIL), JOHN EVANS (CHIEF EXECUTIVE, CORNWALL COLLEGE GROUP) AND LORNA MARTIN (CCB TRAINING).

TOBY PARKINS (HEADFORWARDS)

BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS WITH APPRENTICESHIPS SHAUN EAMER (CORMAC) AND JOHN DENNEHY (HEWASWATER ENGINEERING)

KIM CONCHIE (CORNWALL CHAMBER) AND LORNA MARTIN (CCB TRAINING)

AMANDA RUSSELL (RIVIERA PRODUCE) AND CAT TONG (BLUEFRUIT SOFTWARE)

CCB Training celebrated National Apprenticeship Week 2022 with employers across the county at a special event at Cornwall College.

ROB KELLOW (RG KELLOW) AND GILES CORBEY (CORBEY CONSTRUCTION) BUSINESS CORNWALL | 47

THE LAST

WORD

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG? From the age of 5 to 18; a tugboat driver, footballer, rock star and poet – in that order.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB? My first full time job was working on a fruit farm in Worcestershire; first permanent job was projects officer with the Amenity Planning Group at Birmingham City Council, not knowing what on earth I was supposed to be doing.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST QUALITY? Optimism; I’m a ‘glass half full’ kind of person.

WHAT IS YOUR WORST QUALITY? Trying to do everything at once; and forgetting to delegate. They are linked!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE BOOK? It’s a tie between the four Carlos Ruiz Zafon’s novels which comprise the Cemetery of Forgotten Books series.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FILM? Cinema Paradiso; a beautiful film, loaded with pathos.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT? Daaku in Penryn, where Rajasthan meets Cornwall.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX? On my allotment, losing myself in jobs to do, with just the birds for company.

WHAT DO YOU BEGRUDGE SPENDING MONEY ON? I object to being penalised by insurance companies and utility providers for being a loyal customer!

IF YOU ONLY HAD £1 LEFT IN THE ENTIRE WORLD, WHAT WOULD YOU SPEND IT ON? A game of pinball; hopefully I’d get a replay.

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

JOHN PETERS

MD of SWIG Finance 48 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Eric Cantona and Joni Michell. We’d talk about music, love, football, and the meaning of life. After dinner, Joni would get her guitar out and we’d sing to the stars.

TELL ME A JOKE:

Q. Why do elephants have big ears?

A. Because Noddy won’t pay the ransom.

WHAT’S THE GREATEST INVENTION EVER? The NHS. It is still a beacon of hope for civilisation.

DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE ADJECTIVES: Thoughtful; empathetic; creative.

Cornwall Innovation Centres supporting early-stage innovative businesses and helping companies to grow. Offering flexible, managed and modern workspace combined with access to business support and academic research.

• Fantastic easily accessible locations – Penryn, Pool & Truro • On-site parking • Flexible contract terms • Friendly, welcoming team to support all your business needs • Access to business support and academic research for start-up & established companies • Free networking opportunities • On-site meeting and conference facilities • 3 levels of association • Affiliate Membership • Formation Zone – Collaborative Co-working space • Private office space

For more information: enquiries@cornwallinnovation.co.uk www.cornwallinnovation.co.uk 08000 129 500

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