Business Cornwall Sept 2018

CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION businesscornwall.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2018 / ISSUE 123 / £3.95

MARINE RENEWABLES EXPERT STEVE JERMY

SUSTAINABILITY

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SEPTEMBER 2018

ISSUE 123

INSIDE FEATURES

REGULARS

10 – CEO INTERVIEW

4 INCOMING

THE OFFSHORE RENEWABLE ENERGY SECTOR HAS MASSIVE POTENTIAL FOR CORNWALL, SAYS MOR CHAIRMAN, STEVE JERMY

6 BUSINESS NEWS

15 – SUSTAINABILITY

36 ON THE MOVE

HOW PROTECTING THE PLANET CAN ALSO PROTECT YOUR BOTTOM LINE

25 – COMPANY PROFILE WE MEET DIGITAL AGENCY EVEREST MEDIA

28 – TAX MATTERS TALKING TAX WITH PKF FRANCIS CLARK

RECRUIT OR UPSKILL?

APPROVAL FOR HELIPORT

LATEST APPOINTMENTS

37 FSB FSB ROUNDUP

38 TOURISM HOLIDAY BOOM

39 EDUCATION NEW HEAD AT TRURO HIGH

30 – EDUCATION & TRAINING CREATING TOMORROW’S LEADERS

34 – BUSINESS GROWTH HOW THE ACCELERATION THROUGH INNOVATION PROGRAMME IS SUPPORTING SMES

40 CREATIVE AGENCY MOVES TO CORNWALL

42 JUST A THOUGHT GUEST COLUMNIST ORLANDO KIMBER

44 CONNECTED PRINT POWER

47 EVENTS DIARY WHAT’S ON

48 THE LAST WORD UNIVERSITY OF EXETER’S EDVARD GLÜCKSMAN

PHOTO: OFFSHORE RENEWABLE ENERGY, SEE P10

BUSINESS CORNWALL

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SEPTEMBER 2018

ISSUE 123

WELCOME EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nick Eyriey nick@businesscornwall.co.uk PUBLISHER Toni Eyriey toni@businesscornwall.co.uk BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Morveth Ward morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk ACCOUNT MANAGER Caroline Hill caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Orlando Kimber and PFA Research DESIGN Hutch - hutchagency.co.uk Printed in Cornwall by Deltor BUSINESS CORNWALL is published 10 times a year by: Tonick Business Publishing Pool Innovation Centre Trevenson Road Redruth TR15 3PL Tel: 01209 718688 SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@businesscornwall.co.uk

ON THE COVER STEVE JERMY CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION businesscornwall.co.uk

MARINE RENEWABLES EXPERT STEVE JERMY

SUSTAINABILITY

GOOD FOR THE PLANET, GREAT FOR BUSINESS

EVEREST MEDIA

DIGITAL AGENCY IN PROFILE

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09 842001

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This month’s issue has a strong emphasis on the sustainability and environment sectors.

PFA Research examines how embracing sustainable practices could be good for business, while in the CEO Interview we speak to marine renewables specialist Steve Jermy, who explains how the offshore renewable energy industry is set to be a real game changer for Cornwall.

While industries such as marine renewables and space, which also looks to have a strong future following the various announcements over the summer, are heralded as the way forward for Cornwall’s economy, more traditional offerings like tourism have also been grabbing the headlines over the last couple of months.

The offshore renewable energy industry is set to be a real game changer for Cornwall

SEPTEMBER 2018 / ISSUE 123 / £3.95

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Business Cornwall magazine is proud to be a business partner of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce

Business Cornwall magazine is proud to be media partner of the FSB

With national news headlines of “mass overcrowding” in Cornwall, thanks to the glorious weather, local tourist businesses have certainly had one of the most successful summers in many a year.

This, of course, includes the Isles of Scilly, which is so reliant on the tourist pound. And many on Scilly have welcomed the Council’s approval for a heliport in Penzance.

The last helicopter service between Penzance and the islands closed in 2012, predominantly because it was financially unsustainable. But now, following The Isles of Scilly Steamship Company’s new helicopter service from Land’s End which began in May, we have the prospect of two.

The competition is good news for islanders perhaps, but it will be interesting to see how the two operators will make it work.

EDITOR BUSINESS CORNWALL

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

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22/08/2018 16:07 14:19

INCOMING

THE CONVERSATION

The big question Which is the best option and why?

Recruit the skills your business needs or upskill staff to get them?

Join the conversation @biz_cornwall

/businesscornwall

businesscornwall.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL

ERIC NICHOLLS

Spiral UK

Wherever possible Spiral UK try and upskill people in the business. Our core team has been with us a long time and progressed ‘through the ranks’ so to speak. High end staircases are a pretty niche market so, with employment in the manufacturing industry in Cornwall being close to capacity, we prefer to recruit people with a work approach that suits the company and train them in the skills their role requires.

WHO RULES THE SCHOOL?

The school led education system has transformed the governance landscape.

Laurie Trounce from Stephens Scown reviews the current situation

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BUSINESS CORNWALL

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THE CONVERSATION

INCOMING

JOSH HOOLE CIoS Skills Hub

MICHELLE PEARCE

RRL

At RRL, we believe that a business is only as good as its people. Aptitude can be developed, the right attitude cannot. When you are growing a business, it is crucial that you have a team in place that are prepared to embrace challenges and come up with solutions. In our experience, this means training the right people to become highly qualified individuals; people who are prepared to share their skills with colleagues and, in turn, take onboard new knowledge. This is what creates cohesion between a team, and ultimately a stronger firm.

As specialists who are constantly adding value to businesses, we believe that one of the smartest investments you can make is in the continued development of your people. This has been key to our past success and is an integral part of our future strategy. We have worked hard to cultivate a working environment in which our people can grow. This means supporting individuals and encouraging the development of specialisms within the firm.

For us, it is about ensuring that our people feel valued, and equipped with the relevant business and accounting skills to progress within the firm, should they wish to. By taking a holistic approach to training and development, individuals are not only able to perform better within their roles but are equipped with the skills in business management and leadership that are so essential for growth.

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chool governance has been transformed. Schools are now the stewards for finance and resources as well as academic standards. They are responsible for delivery at a local and system level; they are limited companies with exempt charity status managed by a board within a multi-agency governance system requiring compliance and interaction with the Department for Education, Education Funding Agency, OFSTED and the Regional Schools Commissioner.

As single academies and smaller multi-academy trusts merge to become larger multi-academy trusts, the complexity of the organisational arrangements coupled with demands to deliver improved standards and financial sustainability

It’s good to have options in business and the big message here is invest in your staff to reap the rewards, whether they’re new starts or have been with you for years.

I’d be asking what the business strategy is for the next 3-5 years and how the people plan fits into that (what do you mean you haven’t got a people plan?). If you know where you’re heading and what the skills are you need to get there, then you’ll be in a much better place to answer this. Add to that the costs of recruiting vs costs of Apprenticeships vs the costs of upskilling, with an understanding of the potential returns, and the answer will become even clearer.

One firm saved £9.5k by recruiting Apprentices over upskilling staff so they’re already in a better place to manage the demands of a growing business, whereas another business is training their technical

team in Account Management which will cut costs across the board through efficiency savings whilst boosting revenue.

People are the most important asset in any business so I’d argue that it’s best to maximise the potential of your current team so everyone is working smarter before looking to bring in new people. Continued investment in your staff increases their sense of job satisfaction, which improves motivation, and in turn reduces employee turnover whilst increasing productivity - which directly improves the profitability. And a business that runs impressive training programmes will be more attractive when you’re looking for that top-talented new recruit later down the line.

What about you? Management and leadership courses can boost productivity by 30% so start with upskilling people at the top of the business and watch the benefits flow.

SARAH PATTERSON Truro School Prep & Truro School Nursery We believe that a child’s early years education lays the foundation for their future. It is for this reason that we strive to offer our youngest pupils the best possible start to their educational journey. Our teachers play a crucial role in this.

We are extremely proud to have built a team that are able to support our pupils with a wealth of experience, knowledge and specialist qualifications in Early Years education.

Before joining Truro School Nursery in 2016, Ms Williams previously worked as a teacher for 25 years, as well as holding roles as

a deputy head at an Ofsted Outstanding Nursery for seven of those years. Working alongside her is Mrs Banks who shares her passion for music with the children every day.

Mrs Banks has been working within education for 18 years, spending 12 of those years in an early years setting.

Nursery should be a place where children develop a lifelong love of learning. Every child is different, and our teachers are specially trained to identify individual learning styles and adapt their teaching as appropriate. This breadth of expertise is, in our view, what sets us apart from other nurseries.

has reinforced the need for strong governance to underpin outstanding performance.

The schools sector has the largest volunteer population in the UK, however many experienced governors are standing down as they feel they no longer play a significant role.

As multi-academy trusts try to balance the Board and local governing body responsibilities, a failure to implement appropriate delegations and communicate them clearly can create a disconnect between smaller rural schools and the multi-academy trust.

Whilst local governing bodies undoubtedly now play a different role, they remain vital in terms of their role in local governance due to their visibility, accountability and insight which

engenders parent and pupil confidence and engagement.

Laurie Trounce is a partner in our specialist Education Team. Please contact Laurie if you would like help with education law queries including corporate governance, contracts, procurement, employment or property.

Laurie is available on 01872 265100, corporate.cornwall@stephens-scown.co.uk or via www.stephens-scown.co.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL

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CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

cornwallchamber.co.uk

KML WINS INAUGURAL AWARDS

SPACEPORT SET FOR LIFT OFF

Satellites could be launched from Cornwall within the next three years, following an agreement announced at the Farnborough International Air Show.

While Sutherland in Scotland was selected as the UK’s first spaceport for traditional vertically-launched rockets, the Government also announced a new £2million development fund for ‘horizontal launch’ spaceports across the UK at Cornwall Airport Newquay, along with Glasgow Prestwick and Snowdonia.

And in a major boost to Cornish ambitions, satellite launch company, Virgin Orbit, has selected Spaceport Cornwall as an” ideal location” to operate and deliver one of the first launches of its LauncherOne system outside of its US home.

Virgin Orbit is seeking to provide launches from a spaceport at Cornwall Airport Newquay by 2021, using a modified Boeing 747-400 aircraft called ‘Cosmic Girl’. Cosmic Girl will carry a LauncherOne rocket under its wing to a launch range over the Atlantic and release the rocket at around 35,000 feet for onward flight into space, carrying a satellite into Earth orbit.

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly LEP chairman, Mark Duddridge, said: “Cornwall can play a key role supporting the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy ambitions and we have identified space as a major opportunity for growth.

“The partnership with Virgin Orbit is a clear statement that Cornwall is the best UK location for horizontal launch and opens the door to a global satellite customer base.”

PHOTO: KML MD DICCON ROGERS Marine contractor KML was named among the winners of the first New Horizons Awards.

The industry awards, organised by Marine-i, was created to spotlight exceptional business talent and innovation in the marine technology sector in the region.

The presentation to the three winners was made by Richard Noble OBE, who famously smashed the world land speed record, at a special event hosted at China Fleet Country Club in Saltash.

KML received the Business Growth Award, while the Technology Innovation Award went to ARC Marine, which is the first eco-engineering company in the UK that specialises in artificial reefs. The Cornwall First Award was presented to Triskel Marine, which is one of the leading innovators in hybrid propulsion systems.

IT’S TRUE NEW OWNERS AT FRUGI Retail investment company True has acquired a majority stake in Helston-based children’s organic clothing company Frugi.

After 14 years of building Frugi into the £10 million business it is today, owners Lucy and Kurt Jewson have decided to take a step back.

While they remain shareholders and Lucy will work as ‘brand ambassador’ for Frugi, Hugo Adams has been brought in as CEO. Adams has extensive retail experience, having served in senior roles for the likes of Marks and Spencer and, most recently, Superdry.

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Paul Cocker, co-founder at True, explained: “We invest in businesses, teams and people who forge retail and consumer change. True’s very first investment was pureplay childrenswear e-commerce business, Alex&Alexa, and we are excited to continue to invest in a sector in which we have already achieved significant success.”

Lucy Jewson added: “Frugi is built on strong ethical values, so it was important to find an investor that respects this, but also has the experience to help support our future growth, particularly digitally.”

BUSINESS CORNWALL

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BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY sapc.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF Cornish Pasty maker Crantock Bakery has gone into administration with the loss of more than 100 jobs. Administrator, Grant Thornton, said: “Attempts have been made to sell the business in recent weeks but, despite the best efforts of management, cash has deteriorated rapidly leaving the directors with no choice but to close the business.”

Law firm Foot Anstey has reported a 13% rise in turnover. The business reported annual turnover of £43.3 million for 2018, which is more than double since 2010. Revenue from clients within the firm's core industry sectors grew by 26% overall, with work for retail, energy and property businesses seeing particularly significant growth.

The Cornish Pasty Association has launched a scheme to help those retailers who sell Cornish Pasties but don’t necessarily make them. The Recognised Retailer scheme is intended to help people spot a genuine Cornish Pasty when they are buying one.

The Cornish Cheese Company’s blue goats cheese ‘Cornish Nanny’ scooped gold for the second year running at the International Cheese Awards.

CORNWALL

APPROVAL FOR HELIPORT Helicopters will once again connect Penzance and the Isles of Scilly after Cornwall Council’s Strategic Planning Committee unanimously backed a new Penzance Heliport.

From next year, AW139 helicopters will operate from the new heliport at Penzance to the islands of St Mary’s and Tresco.

Cornwall Council planning officers had recommended councillors grant planning consent, saying the project will have “significant social and economic benefits” for the Isles of Scilly and west Cornwall.

Councillors voted unanimously in support of the project.

Robert Dorrien-Smith from Penzance Heliport said: “We hope today’s decision marks the start of a new era for transport to the Isles of Scilly; an era of improved resilience, of increased capacity, of improved accessibility, of genuine competition, and a new era of honest cooperation for the good of the islands.

“We want to thank everyone who has supported us over the past two years.

Today’s result is testament to the overwhelming public support for this project, and to the hard work, dedication

and perseverance of so many people.”

Flights will operate seven days per week, but the Penzance Heliport team has offered to reduce its proposed Sunday flying schedule by half, to a maximum of four return flights, to minimise the impact on local residents.

It marks the culmination of what has been an often-acrimonious battle with the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group.

The heliport project had originally been granted planning permission last year, but the Steamship Group, which operates the rival Scillonian and Skybus services, successfully obtained a judicial review against it. And then in a surprise move, in May it launched its own helicopter service to the islands from Land’s End Airport.

Marian Berkeley, from the Friends of Isles of Scilly Transport local action group, hopes it marks the end of the dispute. She said: “The Steamship Company would be well advised not to seek another judicial review, which most people will see as no more than a vexatious delaying tactic.

The company should, instead, accept that competition from another service is good for business as well as good for islanders.”

The Pool-based community resource, Heartlands, has had its lease extended by Cornwall Council for another 30 years.

Cornish swimwear brand Halto was named Best Small Business at the Venus Awards, which recognise the achievements of working women. Sisters Lerryn Clare and Lucy Cox sprang to national prominence earlier this year when they took the UK’s first halterneck strap cushion onto BBC Dragons’ Den.

PARAGON BUYS IMPRIMUS

Redruth-based printing and communications specialist, Imprimus, is under new ownership.

The business has been acquired by the Paragon Group, a leading provider of customer communications, identification and graphics services, which has operations in 15 countries across the world.

Following the merger, Imprimus, which was

also formerly known as Stralfors UK, becomes part of Paragon Customer Communications’ business in the UK. Imprimus brings a strong management team to the business, to complement and work with the existing team at Paragon Customer Communications.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

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ADVERTORIAL

CORNWALL

INVESTING TO INNOVATE

Successful business owners know that they need to innovate to stay ahead. This can involve developing a new product, improving a process or upgrading something you have been doing for a long time

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t can be a major challenge for SMEs to fund these projects. Recognising that the cost of innovation can be a barrier to businesses, Acceleration Through Innovation (ATI) has established the Innovation Fund. This £500,000 of match-funded finance is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and can support eligible Cornish SMEs to develop innovative projects with grants of between £2,500 and £25,000.

ATI Business Innovation Advisor Catherine Parnall explains, “The Innovation Fund is giving Cornish businesses a unique advantage by de-risking their innovation ideas. The grants can be used to support product development or process innovation – in other words, doing things differently and smarter. Working with start-ups through to well-established larger businesses, we are equipped to assist projects from just an idea right through to market launch, all the while recognising the need for sustainable and scalable innovation.”

Health technology company Ultramed is benefiting from the Innovation Fund. Based at Tremough Innovation Centre, the business has developed cloud-hosted, online pre-operative and pre-procedure assessment programs for hospitals. After securing a £23,000 Innovation Fund grant in January, Ultramed has developed the software so it can be integrated into multiple healthcare systems, across the NHS, private hospitals and internationally, along with having a bespoke content management system

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built for future development work.

Ultramed Operations Manager Elise Worrall says, “The new developments will mean hospitals can easily integrate our systems into theirs and we can add or remove content at the click of a button. It is a business critical development for Ultramed. It’s exactly what our customers were asking for and will give us a strong competitive advantage.

“As a new business, we’ve secured a range of funding, including a successful Crowdcube campaign to cover our operational costs. The Innovation Fund came at the right time for us and fitted perfectly with what we needed to achieve to move forward with the development of the programs.

“We are now placed much more competitively in the market and are further ahead than any of our known competitors, with a lot of interest across the UK and internationally.”

An important feature of the Innovation Fund is that it can give businesses like Ultramed a quick turnaround time, from applying to securing funding. While many grant programmes can take several months for a decision, securing a grant through the Innovation Fund can take as little as six weeks.

Fund Manager John Hutchings says, “We know that businesses often need to act quickly, so our timescales really

help with that. We work closely with the business to ensure their strongest ideas are brought forward, before handholding them through the application process.”

Over the coming months, the Innovation Fund aims to support a number of ambitious innovation projects across Cornwall. John Hutchings adds, “We are encouraging businesses to do something they might not have done otherwise, including coming forward with projects they may have considered too risky to see through.”

Acceleration Through Innovation (ATI) is a three year £3 million ERDF project which aims to support business innovation across Cornwall and Isles of Scilly. Led by the University of Plymouth in partnership with Cornwall Innovation, the project drives a culture of innovation, supporting businesses who are looking to adopt innovative processes or who have aspirations to bring a new product or service to the market.

Ask your Innovation Experts. Register your interest at www.aticornwallinnovation.co.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL

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20/08/2018 14:54 22/08/2018 16:09

Jermy Offshore renewable energy is a fast-growing market with enormous potential for Cornwall. Steve Jermy, a chartered marine renewables technologist at James Fisher, chairman of MOR and Tide Mills MD, talks us through the opportunities out there PHOTOS: TOBY WELLER

It’s been said that offshore renewables could be something of a ‘game changer’ for Cornwall. What does it entail?

Broadly, there are five key offshore renewable sectors. There is fixed offshore wind, which is when the turbine foundations are located on the sea floor; floating offshore wind, which is when the wind turbine platforms float in deeper water and are moored to the sea floor; wave energy, tidal stream energy, which uses high speed underwater currents to drive turbines akin to wind turbines; tidal range energy, which impounds sea water with barrages, and then uses turbines akin to those used in hydro-electric dams.

For wave and tidal stream energy, people may not realise it, but Cornwall is one of two world-leading regions in the technologies. By way of example, at Falmouth-based James Fisher Marine Services, part of the James Fisher Group, we’ve installed around 15 of the world’s 20 commercial scale tidal turbines.

Similarly, we’re supporting fixed offshore wind, which is deployed at scale in the North Sea. It’s a huge industry and growing quickly.

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What’s the advantage of offshore wind compared to onshore. The space?

It’s simply to do with friction. As the wind blows over land, friction takes energy out. It’s flat out to sea, so you get a better resource. Secondly, as you say, is the space, less impact, and thirdly you can build bigger things offshore. GE are now talking about a 12MW turbine and the size of these things is stupendous. The towers to support these turbines are as big as the Eiffel tower. It’s easier to build things at scale offshore than onshore.

In 2012, the cost of an offshore wind farm of 500MW was about £3 billion. It’s down on that now, and I’d estimate that the cost of about a GW of installation is going to be in the region of £5 billion. Big figures. And you can imagine the transformative effect that would have on the industry locally. Britain leads by some distance in the overall offshore wind capacity installed, much of it in the North Sea, and there is a necessarily large supply chain to support this.

How is that location determined?

For offshore wind, depth of water is key, and at the moment 40m is a rough cut off between fixed and floating offshore wind foundations.

The North Sea is shallow, which is why it hosts a lot of UK and the EU’s fixed offshore wind capacity. Wave energy requires powerful wave climates, which limits it to the west of the UK.

And for tidal energy there are two factors. For tidal range, you need a large difference between low water and higher water, perhaps a minimum of around 6m, to make it cost effective. And for tidal stream, you need strong underwater currents, perhaps a minimum of 2m/s.

The Government has just thrown it out saying it didn’t provide value for money The problem with Swansea Bay, and this is just a personal opinion, I am cautious about tidal lagoons; it is expensive to build a wall around the sea, which is the challenge that Swansea Bay faced. But I am supportive of the idea of building walls across estuaries, where this is environmentally acceptable. There is a tidal range project, of 230MW, in France across the estuary of La Rance, which has been delivering power for 60 years. It is very efficient, and we could generate power in the same way in UK, from large and small estuaries.

It's important also not to confuse Swansea Bay Lagoon, which is a tidal range project, with tidal stream projects, which extract power from high speed underwater currents by using turbines akin to underwater wind turbines if you like. They’re not wind turbines of course, but they look like them and you use the high-speed currents. There are places in the world where you have currents in excess of two metres per second, that’s 4-5 knots and up to five metres per second, which is ten knots.

22/08/2018 17:06

INTERVIEW

STEVE JERMY

BUSINESS CORNWALL

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We can generate power from wave energy but there’s still a way to go to make it commercial; it’s still quite expensive, and probably five or so years behind the other offshore renewable technologies These latter speeds are equivalent to 100 mph wind speeds, and thus have huge power potential. There are about 20 large scale commercial turbines installed in the world, generally around 1.5MW, and James Fisher Marine Services, this Falmouth company, has installed 15 of them. Tidal steam is an increasingly effective way of power and is on the cusp of commercialisation, nearly ready to make the jump.

Last is wave energy. We can generate power from wave energy but there’s still a way to go to make it commercial; it’s still quite expensive, and probably five or so years behind the other offshore renewable technologies. Not least because high wave climate areas are not only extremely challenging offshore construction sites but also require very high levels of survivability to be built into the wave energy devices.

Does this encompass Wave Hub? Wave Hub is a technology facility, and main reason that we’ve not used it as much as was intended is because technological development has been slower than forecast.

Did Wave Hub arrive before it’s time?

It’s been there since 2009. I think it would be wrong to say it arrived before its time or the

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idea was a bad one, because it’s impossible to predict what the pace of research and innovation will be. That said, the wave industry has progressed more slowly than people anticipated. The other factor has been the removal of the ring-fenced Contracts for Difference (CFD) contracts for wave and tidal energy. Until quite recently wave and tidal energy had a ‘strike price’ as we call it (how much we get per MW) and designed to encourage innovation and cost reduction.

But that ring fencing was removed, which essentially meant wave & tidal now has to compete with offshore wind. With offshore wind 15 years ahead, technologically, that’s a competition wave and tidal was never going to win. Which is unfortunate because there were at least two wave energy developers who were ready deploy at Wave Hub but pulled out when the policy change was made.

But you’re confident there is still a future for Wave Hub long term?

I am, but it’s going to take time. In the long term we’ll get there. The first tidal commercial arrays are there, but wave is probably 3-5 years behind tidal.

Floating offshore wind could also be part of that story. There’s only so much sea floor that’s shallow. Fixed offshore wind tends to be 40m max. Fixed ones are cheaper at the moment, because we haven’t done much of floating. We understand how to install them; it’s only more expensive because we haven’t done much of it.

As we do more, the costs will come down. And we will need test and demonstration facilities, akin to Wave Hub, to drive down floating offshore wind costs in the same way as we did with fixed offshore wind.

And floating turbines can go almost anywhere?

Yes, but practically we will start out at the edge of the continental shelf. Some countries don’t have much continental shelf and others do. The continental shelf boundaries are around 200 metres, beyond which the sea floor drops away into the deep oceans, with depths in excess of 4,000 metres. You can moor at those depths, we do it with oil and gas, but it’s expensive.

If floating offshore wind is something we choose to do in the UK, it’s something we’ll do in Cornwall; it’s an ideal place. Not least because there are few other locations. The North Sea is full, and shallow. The English Channel is one of the densest shipping areas in the world. Which leaves the Cornwall, Pembrokeshire and Northern Ireland, as well as Scotland where deployment plans are already in place.

So, summing up, Cornish companies have world leading capabilities in wave and tidal and are significant players in the fixed offshore wind sector. When we move to generate power from the seas off the south west, then I think the quickest technology is likely to be floating offshore wind, and then wave as we solve the remaining engineering issues.

Why is there such a cluster of expertise in Cornwall?

Difficult to say. Funnily enough there’s a number of people here who work in the offshore oil and gas industry as well. It’s quite a marine focused county. You have companies that have just been engaged in it, which attracts others.

You have Plymouth University and Exeter University down at Tremough, which both have a lot of marine renewables expertise. Some of the European money has also gone into the

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INTERVIEW

sector, and Wave Hub has attracted expertise as well. I’m just finishing off some work for an Australian client who wants to bring technology to Fabtest, off Falmouth, and we work with clients from across the world. So, although I’m not sure why we have the expertise here, the fact is that we do, and its world leading.

How much is the marine renewables sector worth?

The Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult did an analysis on the sector and said the offshore wind industry could be worth as much as £2.9 billion by 2030 to the UK economy. It also said the tidal stream industry could generate a net cumulative benefit to the UK of £1.4 billion, including considerable exports and support 4,000 jobs by 2030. And assuming a ten-year lag behind tidal stream, wave energy could add a positive contribution to the UK economy of £4 billion and support 8,100 jobs by 2040.

I would say there are five major renewable sources still untapped. Geothermal, which Cornwall has a significant role to play, tidal energy, wave energy, floating offshore wind and the last one, ocean thermal energy conversion, which is about using the temperature differences between the warm surface waters in the tropics and deep waters, which is also very interesting. Cornwall has possibilities in four of those five technologies, Where does solar fit in? Are there any large arrays out to sea?

I can’t think why we would want to do it. I

am not an expert, but generally it’s expensive to put things out to sea and the sea is not intuitively the best pace to do it. To my mind, if you’re going to do solar, do it onshore. I know people have thought about it, but I would be surprised if it’s successful in the long run. If you’re going to put things out to sea, use the power of the sea to generate energy.

Has the appetite for solar diminished?

I’m not a solar expert, but a lot of it depends on Government policy. Whether you use offshore or onshore depends on your geography and if you’re a small nation with a large sea area it makes a lot of sense to use offshore. So, when people ask me what will America look like in terms of the energy they distribute or South Africa, I say I think it will be more onshore than offshore because they have large land areas and generally speaking its cheaper to do things onshore than offshore. So why would you want to go offshore if you’ve got large land areas where you can put solar farms and onshore wind farms? But if you’re a small nation and quite crowded, then that doesn’t make so much sense. We’ve got a lot of ocean around us and probably between 10% and 15% of the worlds tidal energy, so the offshore opportunity to Britain is huge.

The Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy are seeking to have 30GW of offshore capacity installed by 2030. We have the potential to make a very significant contribution to that vision. Indeed, Britain’s peak is around 43GW in any one hour, of which

STEVE JERMY

a very significant proportion could be delivered by offshore renewables.

You have many hats.

Tide Mills, James Fisher, MOR. Tide Mills is a small research project, at the moment; James Fisher is my day-to-day work. With Tide Mills we’re trying to generate small scale community scale tidal energy from tidal range, but James Fisher is my priority client. James Fisher is a large offshore services provider and works in all the offshore renewable sectors. They bought Mojo Maritime in 2015. Mojo as was, is now James Fisher Marine Services.

At James Fisher Marine Services, we don’t design the turbines, but we do pretty much do everything else. We design the underwater foundations, design all what is known as the ‘balance of plant’ - the cabling routes etc. We also prime contract and project manage the offshore installation.

We’re excited about offshore wind, it’s a fantastic opportunity for us, excited about emerging offshore renewables as well.

Fixed offshore wind is a young but confident industry and maturing. No longer nascent, but with some big corporate players in it, quite competitive. Smaller emerging offshore

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renewables, wave, tidal, floating offshore wind, these are the new kids on the block, and it’s exciting to be part of these sectors, it’s pioneering stuff.

I chair the MOR (Marine Offshore Renewables) Group, which at the moment is a subsidiary of Cornwall Marine Network. It’s a cluster, a small trade body. There are only about 30 companies in it, but some solid ones. Companies like James Fisher, Carnegie, which is one of world’s leading wave energy developers, and Vattenfall, which is the world’s second largest wind developer, with an office in Penzance.

You also sit on the LEP board?

Yes. I was invited to put my name forward because of my expertise in marine. The board didn’t have marine expertise and some of the board members were coming to the end of their allotted times, so it works well. I now chair the LEP’s energy group and they’ve published a number of documents recently such as 10 Opportunities, and one of those opportunities is marine and another is energy.

So, you can see there is a really attractive nexus there.

There seem to be a lot of opportunities on the cusp in the Cornwall and it’s all about which ones will emerge If we get floating offshore wind off the Cornish coast, let’s say it was a gigawatt, then say we got as big as East Anglian project which is 7GW of installed capacity. As a ruleof-thumb, 1 GW will be around £5 billion, so a 7GW project off the South West would require around £35 billion of investment, about five times the Cornish GDP. These are transformational figures. What would be really neat about that is that the supply chain

CEO_Sept18.indd 5

could be here as well. We’d build systems here and get them deployed off the coast here.

And there are also export opportunities.

James Fisher at the moment are working with countries in Australia, the US, we have an office in France. It’s a worldwide opportunity in which Britain leads the world and I would say the leading areas in Britain are the south west and Scotland, with Wales not too bad either.

Offshore renewables is one of the quickest growing markets in the world, so it’s a terrific industry to lead the world in.

It must be a very money hungry industry, do costs come down as it matures?

Costs have come down a lot in offshore wind. It’s capital intensive, almost all power installation is, but one thing you do get at the end of it is a revenue stream which is pretty much guaranteed. we’re always going to need electricity. In the early years you tend to need grant support to get the technology up and running and revenue support, but as the technologies are proven and you start to get them to scale, then you learn how to do it more cheaply.

And is it then easier to attract investment?

Yes it is, as it’s been proven. There was a very interesting presentation at a conference I was at where the Green Investment Group, which was the Green Investment Bank, showed that the confidence in offshore wind is such that the majority of funding now is debt funding, which is attractive because it’s cheaper. What that means is if the upfront cost is cheaper, the cost of energy is cheaper.

Your background is in the Navy? How did that prepare you for what you do now?

I spent 34 years in the navy. I joined at the end of university and have been in the offshore renewables sector for nearly a decade.

I was an aviator and a ship’s diver. I was at Culdrose, from where I deployed to the

Falklands war and commanded a patrol vessel. I also commanded a mine sweeper, often based in Cornish sea areas doing fishery protection, then a frigate running out of Plymouth and finally a destroyer and destroyer squadron running out of Portsmouth. My biggest command job was the Fleet Air Arm and last operational job was in Afghanistan as strategy director in the British Embassy.

One of the thigs that was really helpful to what I do now is I operated up in Whitehall at the MoD, so I know Whitehall like the back of my hand and have a good feel for how the system of government works. It’s a different language!

At one stage I was deputy director of the department for policy planning at the MoD at the time of the attacks on Twin Towers. In about two months we rewrote British defence policy. Very rewarding times.

How did you get to be in this sector?

My first degree was in Maths and Oceanography. I’m not an engineer, but there’s a lot of engineering training in the navy to be a ship’s captain, so I had that background and when I left the service I did two things. I set up a small tidal energy company and the other job I did, which I didn’t enjoy so much, I was the chairman at Derriford, but I wasn’t really suited to the NHS. I found it difficult to get things done. The NHS is a huge thing, very slow moving and a little bit cautious. I don’t think the NHS does leadership training as well as the Navy does; in fact, I don’t think many organisations do. One of things about the Navy, and indeed all the armed forces, is that leadership training is part and parcel of what they do. We were always encouraged as young officers to go off and do things and think for yourself. As captain, you’re on your own, which is good, it means you’re used to making decisions. One of the problems of big organisations, is how they make decisions. If they make them too slowly, then you miss the boat or take on risk you hadn’t appreciated.

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SUSTAINABILITY

SECTOR

Sustainability may be great for the planet, but is it good for the bottom line? PFA Research director Robert Rush examines the facts here’s growing evidence that consumers are trying to act sustainably and that they expect the same from businesses. So, when it comes to buying, they’re doing their homework – they check labels before purchasing, they look online for information on manufacturing practices and they pay attention to public opinion on social media.

The latest Ethical Consumer market report (2017) reported that the overall value of ethical spending in the UK grew by 3.2% to £81.3 billion in 2016, which equates to an average spend of £1,263 per household. Levels of inflation rose in 2016 and this led to both increases in retail prices and a reduction in disposable income. Despite this, the market for sustainable and ethical goods grew.

What does this mean for businesses in Cornwall?

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SECTOR

SUSTAINABILITY

Using traditional marketing tactics to communicate sustainable values can lead to increased sales Global research firm, Nielsen, often reports evidence of a direct link between sustainable business operations and increased sales. It notes that brands that demonstrate sustainability outperform those that don’t. Interestingly, it also notes that this link is most obvious when a business uses a traditional marketing tactic to communicate its sustainable values.

Unsurprisingly, TV advertising was shown to be the most effective driver of sustainabilityrelated sales growth. On-pack communication was also proven to be helpful, but its 2015 data shows that multi-channel communication is needed in order to reinforce the messaging and ensure that it is reaching the target consumers.

However, it’s important not to overestimate the impact of sustainability upon profits Sustainability and ethics are not leading purchasing triggers among millennials, according to a 2015 report by Deloitte.

2.6%

There is strong evidence that some consumers will pay more for sustainable goods It’s often argued that millennials are the only group to rival the purchasing power of older consumers, but it’s important to remember that, in reality, this varies by industry. For instance, PFA Research’s 2017 renewables survey showed that 43% of those that wish to install solar PV are aged 34 years or under, but only 2.6% of those that have actually purchased solar PV fall within this age category.

OF MILLENNIALS CITE SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICS AS THE KEY MOTIVATOR FOR THE PURCHASE OF PREMIUM BRANDED GOODS

THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Sustainability_Sept18.indd 2

Just 2.6% of millennials cite sustainability and ethics as the key motivator for the purchase of premium branded goods, which suggests that environmentally aware businesses seeking to appeal to younger consumers are operating within a relatively small niche market.

It’s not all bad news though, as 18.8% of millennials report that they consider the sustainability and ethics of a brand each time they make a purchase. Similarly, an additional 48.5% report that they sometimes consider it.

Therefore, it seems that millennials appreciate sustainability – they’re just not willing to pay a premium for it.

The Ethical Consumer market report shows that there are a number of clearly defined segments with the ability and willingness to pay a premium for sustainable goods. They include consumers aged between 18-24 years interested in vegetarianism and veganism; those seeking to purchase ‘natural’, chemical free cleaning products and individuals seeking sustainable clothing.

Their 2017 survey of European and US consumers indicated that over 70% of consumers are willing to pay a premium of 5% for an ecofriendly product, if it meets the same performance criteria as the non-eco-friendly alternative.

They surveyed consumers in relation to a number of categories, including automotives, building, electronics, furniture and packaging.

Interestingly, consumers are willing to pay the highest premium for sustainable packaging - this was the only category in which fewer than 10% of consumers said they would still choose ecofriendly products, if the premium rose to 25%.

What motivates people to purchase sustainably?

18.8%

hat would the world look like if we could design products that could be easily repaired, remanufactured and reused? Or create innovative services that add value to the local economy?

In an effort to take on the challenge of growing the economy while accounting for finite natural resources, experts are turning to a new model of business. Driving resource efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness, the ‘circular economy’ is seen as a better alternative to the traditional “make, use, and dispose” linear economy.

So, what do we mean when we talk about a circular economy? In a linear economy, a product loses value throughout its lifespan, and it is difficult to recapture key materials and resources that are used. A circular economy extends the life of products, reduces waste, and extracts more value from materials.

Last year, The University of Exeter was designated as a Global Pioneer University by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which

OF MILLENNIALS REPORT THAT THEY CONSIDER THE SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICS OF A BRAND EACH TIME THEY MAKE A PURCHASE

was established in 2010 with the aim of accelerating the transition to the circular economy and supporting decision makers across business, academia, and government.

Peter Hopkinson, Professor of Circular Economy, at the University of Exeter, says: “To accelerate the transition to a circular economy requires ambition, deep commitment and a willingness to take calculated risks. The University of Exeter recognises the importance of circular economy to address the systemic challenges facing human society and our global economies. Our pioneer status will enable us to create further momentum and academic leadership in circular economy."

By adopting circular economy principles, Europe stands to generate a net economic benefit of 1.8 trillion Euros by 2030, according to some reports. In the UK alone, this could translate to up to half a million new jobs over the same period. Sectors such as agriculture, mining, and energy, which play a critical role in the economies of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, stand to benefit from the application of new systems of materials management.

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SUSTAINABILITY

In 2015, Nielsen found that 66% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable goods. Of this 66%, they noted that over 69% of them are more likely to purchase a product made from fresh, natural or organic ingredients. This is good news for Cornwall’s agri-food sector which has long been pursuing a strategy of promoting fresh local produce. Related to this, the 2017 Ethical Consumer market report showed that the ethical food and drink market was up 9.7% in 2016, compared with 5.3% the previous year, so this may indeed provide an opportunity for ethical Cornish food and drink businesses.

Similarly, 58% of respondents reported that they are influenced by whether a company is environmentally friendly and 56% said that they are influenced by whether a company is known for its commitment to social value.

Interestingly, price reductions and coupons did not make it into the top 5 buying influences amongst sustainability motivated consumers.

For this segment of the market, personal values are generally more important than personal benefits, including convenience and cost.

Sustainable businesses are more likely to attract talented young employees

58 %

A 2016 survey by the Chartered Institute of Marketing showed that 82% of millennials perceive that they are more likely to seek employment at a firm that has been publicly awarded for its ethics. The Q2 Cornwall Quarterly Economic Survey showed that 62% of the Cornish businesses that tried to recruit staff during the quarter reported that they struggled to find suitable candidates.

As a result, this is likely to be an area that Cornish businesses deem worthy of further consideration within their strategic planning.

Millennials are also the group most likely to take a pay cut to work for a sustainable company – 66% would do so, which compares to 61% of the wider population. The Cornwall Quarterly Economic Survey for Q2 indicated that 63% of businesses are suffering pressures to raise prices. Therefore, this may be of interest to organisations considering whether they can afford to adopt a more sustainable and environmentally friendly business model – perhaps such an approach is not out of reach, after all, though it is debatable whether it should come at the expense of employee salaries.

OF RESPONDENTS REPORTED THAT THEY ARE INFLUENCED

BY WHETHER A COMPANY IS ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

SECTOR

What’s the way forward?

The market for sustainable goods and services is growing, as demonstrated by a range of research, including the latest Ethical Consumer market report (2017). Within this market, there are a number of higher growth areas, including sustainable clothing, food and drink, green electricity tariffs and ‘natural’ cleaning products, all of which are likely to be of interest to Cornish businesses.

Cornwall is very closely influenced by nature – it has more miles of coastline than any other English county; it’s tourism industry relies heavily upon the county’s areas of outstanding natural beauty and its moorland. Therefore, it seems that businesses in the area are uniquely positioned to capitalise upon this gradual change in consumer mind set ¬– so perhaps this is the ideal opportunity for business owners and would-be owners to build a distinctive local strength in the form of market-leading sustainable products and services.

56 %

SAID THAT THEY ARE INFLUENCED BY WHETHER A COMPANY IS KNOWN FOR ITS COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL VALUE.

BEACH CLEAN BENEFITS

F

ather and daughter duo, Rob and Emily Stevenson, have made national headlines in recent months following the launch of their Beach Guardian volunteer initiative to tackle the scourge of plastic on our shores. But volunteering isn’t just good for the environment - it can have real, tangible benefits for the mental health of employees and the local community, too.

Every minute, the equivalent of one garbage truck of plastic is dumped into our oceans and lots of that waste ends up on the beautiful beaches of Cornwall. By 2050 there could be more plastic in the sea than fish.

Realising the scale of the problem, Cornish business owner Rob Stevenson and his marine biologist daughter Emily set up Beach Guardian in 2017 to organise community beach cleans and associated events to raise awareness and prompt action in the county.

Beach Guardian recently partnered with mental health education organisation, Thrive In Business, to help local companies improve the wellbeing of their employees through empowering, positive action - such as volunteering on beach cleans - combined with group mental health courses which optimise performance and wellbeing.

“In addition to helping the environment and

community, there are well-researched and measured physical and mental health benefits for individuals who volunteer with projects such as Beach Guardian,” explains Rob. “People with good mental health make great employees and profitable businesses, too.

They feel powerful, productive, positive about the future and satisfied with their contribution at work and in their community in general.”

Recently, Beach Guardian has organised beach cleans with Nissan, Liverty, Rick Stein Group, Mother Iveys Bay Holiday Park and several others - go to www.BeachGuardian. co.uk or call 01841 521132 to find out more about how your organisation can benefit too.

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SUSTAINABILITY

ELECTRIC CAR GUIDE ast forward one year from Business Cornwall’s 2017 electric car (EV) guide and public confidence in the genre is greater than ever. Technology, notably battery capacity, is advancing at quite a rate and each year the range is going up and up across virtually all the manufacturers of EVs. With the average EV now capable of well over 100 miles on a single charge, ask yourself how many journeys you do greater than this?

And even then, with the boost in infrastructure including more and faster charging stations, all you need to do is plan your journey with a little more rigour.

As the demand for EVs grows, more choice enters the market as manufacturers race to capture the market. New entries over the past 12 months include Jaguar’s first EV, the I-Pace, and Volkswagen’s fully electric e-Golf.

TRIED AND TESTED Business Cornwall spoke to St Austell-based Nationwide Print, who this year invested in an EV, to find out how it’s worked for them.

The new, 100% electric, Volkswagen e-Golf is charged using power generated by a large

FEATURED EV

SECTOR

solar array on the roof of Nationwide Print HQ at the Holmbush Industrial Estate and used for local meetings and small deliveries. And with a range of up to 186 miles, it has proved to be a practical investment for the firm.

MD, Julian Hocking, explains: “We meet with our Cornwall-based clients regularly to help them plan integrated marketing campaigns.

Using an electric vehicle for these journeys has been great – not only has it reduced our carbon footprint, it has also made life easier.

For example, it has meant no more queuing up at petrol stations and rather more simply, I just plug it in when I’m at the office which gives me ample range to take on any journey in Cornwall.

“When going further afield you just have to plan where you can find a rapid charge point on your route and factor in a coffee break. I am achieving around 130 miles range and that has included using the air conditioning more than normal thanks to the hot weather we’ve been having.

“Overall it has been a great success – my advice to anyone is that if the range is going to be sufficient for the majority of your journeys then an EV is worth considering.”

RENAULT ZOE The Zoe is a purpose built EV that is easy to live with and affordable. Everything is pleasant and simple to use yet there’s still a decent level of equipment as standard and plenty of options on top.

It’s fun to drive with a superb chassis, perhaps unsurprising given Renault’s success in Formula E. The Renault Zoe has now leaped forward in terms of range, too, offering an NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) claimed 250 miles – which is great but should be taken with a pinch of salt, when compared with real world figures.

Cost: From £18420 (after £4500 grant) Local dealer: Dales Cornwall 01872 511600 (Summercourt) 01209 821133 (Scorrier) www.dalescornwall.co.uk.co.uk

Cornwall New Energy - Electric Vehicles Seminar The Cornwall New Energy project (CNE) is a unique initiative that supports small and medium-sized businesses in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly in developing energy-related products, services and solutions to promote the growth of low carbon energy sector within the region. Helping the supply chain access new markets, it identifies renewable energy projects in order to reduce energy bills, emissions and reliance on the national grid, in particular within the rapidly evolving Electric Vehicles sector.

Want to learn how adopting Electric Vehicles and charge point infrastructure can benefit your business?

CNE is receiving up to £2,657,433 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

For more information and ticketing, please visit www.cornwallnewenergy.com and www.eventbrite.co.uk

NEW ENERGY AD

Project Lead

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CNE is holding an event on Electric Vehicles on 18 September 2018 at the Royal Cornwall Showground where you will be given the opportunity to discover more about CNE and this emerging technology, meet with local experts and suppliers and test drive an electric vehicle. Speakers and suppliers include representatives from Cornwall New Energy, Nissan, Renault, Ecodrive, the Energy Savings Trust and Mitsubishi.

Partnering with

BUSINESS CORNWALL

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SUSTAINABILITY

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ENTER THE SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS!

T

he Cornwall Sustainability Awards (CSA) encourage, reward, and recognise the excellent work that organisations and individuals are doing to improve their own sustainability, while also positively growing the natural environment in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

The awards are back and bigger than ever this year, with 12 award categories. New for 2018 is the ‘Best contribution to reducing plastic in the environment’ category where CSA judges hope to find and celebrate the projects and people that are committed to tackling the plastic waste challenge.

The prestigious awards ceremony, held at the Headland Hotel, will celebrate all of the finalists, with each category winner receiving a unique trophy designed by acclaimed local artist Kurt Jackson.

Applications for the awards are now open and the team behind the awards are on hand to support you with your application.

For full details, go to www.cornwallsustainabilityawards.org Email csa@cornwall.gov.uk to book your place on an application workshop

GREEN BUSINESS TRAINING FOR BEGINNERS

I

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Monday October 15 Applications deadline Friday November 30 Cornwall Sustainability Awards Ceremony September 4 - October 3 Various application support workshops

t’s widely acknowledged that sustainability is now an essential ingredient for a company's long-term success but knowing what to do and how to do it can seem like a minefield.

There’s energy use to consider, the provenance of goods and services and the reduction of waste – and that’s just for starters. In fact, not knowing where to begin is one of the main barriers holding businesses back when it comes to being green.

For these businesses the advice from the Cornwall and Isles Scilly Skills Hub is simple: attend a workshop. “Getting together with an expert, and other likeminded businesses, is a great way to find out what you should be doing, how to do it and inspire action,” comments Josh Hoole, project manager of the EU-funded project.

“You’ll also pick up tips and best practice from peers, and with sustainability being such a hot topic there are a number of workshops that you can sign yourself up for.”

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, the team of skills experts work with businesses on a one-to-one basis to match them up with the training that is right for them. The project works hand-in-hand with the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce which over the next month is working with partners to host free sustainability workshops, covering everything from how to reduce water consumption to behavioural change and communicating a green ethos to staff and customers.

To find out how the Skills Hub can help your business access training in everything from marketing to leadership, as well as sustainability, visit www.ciosskillshub.com or call 01209 708660. The service is free, independent and unbiased. Businesses can also find more information on being green via the Skills Hub online Sustainability Toolkit www.ciosgrowthhub.com/skills-toolkit The Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Skills Hub is part funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) and match funded by Cornwall Council and Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership.

And that’s where the Skills Hub can help.

With an in-depth knowledge of the training opportunities that are available across

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Sustainable We profile 6 businesses in the sustainability sector in Cornwall

FISH FOR THOUGHT

F

ish for Thought is a small family business with big ambitions. We are on a mission to change the way people enjoy fish and shellfish forever!

We set ourselves the challenge to be the best business we possibly could be and deliver remarkable seafood, from the Cornish Coast to the rest of the UK. We wanted to marry the expertise and personal service of a traditional fishmonger, with the speed and convenience of online shopping and direct delivery.

We source some of the finest fish and shellfish on the planet, expertly prepare it, and ship it nationwide in our groundbreaking fully-recyclable packaging, direct to our customers’ homes! www.fishforthought.co.uk

Sustainability_Sept18.indd 6

CO CARS

o-cars works with organisations across the South West to provide smart, zero/low emission mobility-on-demand solutions for a fraction of the cost of owning or leasing.

Customers can benefit from big savings on business travel, pool cars and parking spaces.

Their fleet consists of on-street electric and hybrid cars and electric bikes, all bookable 24/7 using smartphone technology and available to hire by the hour or day. Hire costs are from £3.75/ hour (cars) and £1/half-hour (bikes). Co-cars are already in town centres and outside train stations in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Wiltshire, as well as a network of bike hubs across Exeter. New housing developments are also partnering with them to deliver mobility-on-demand for their residents. Talk to Co-cars today to join the electric revolution! - 0345 345 2544 www.co-cars.co.uk | @CoCars | www.co-bikes.co.uk | @CoBikesElectric

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SUSTAINABILITY

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CORNWALL WILDLIFE TRUST We are the county’s leading wildlife conservation charity and work solely in Cornwall. We are passionate about protecting wildlife and wild places, on land and in our seas, and have helped people enjoy nature for over 50 years.

CONSERVE HABITATS

• by managing 57 nature reserves, giving refuge to rare and endangered species • by working in partnership with farmers, land owners and fishermen to support wildlife friendly management

PROTECT WILDLIFE

• by campaigning and lobbying to influence government policy • by recording and monitoring, and sharing our information, knowledge and expertise

INSPIRE PEOPLE

• through education, events and volunteering • through Wildlife Watch, our junior wildlife club for children

BUSINESS SUPPORT

• by running our hugely successful Business Supporter scheme, now with over 160 members • by inspiring the business community through exciting events, publications and volunteer opportunities, as well as specialist advice through development projects www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk

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KENSA HEAT PUMPS CLEAN EARTH ere at CleanEarth we work with businesses to find the solutions that meet their energy needs, financial demands, and their environmental responsibilities.

As decarbonisation and energy procurement become strategic concerns for businesses, our role is to provide the specialist knowledge and technical expertise you need to make the right, responsible decisions.

The commercial arguments for investing in renewable energy are becoming more compelling as every year passes. Our experience of installing 50MWP of solar and wind systems means we understand the economics of renewable power, and the issues that businesses face in adopting green energy.

We are the UK’s market leader in single-turbine wind generation projects and have a portfolio of over 500 solar PV systems. Get in touch today to find out what CleanEarth can do for your business. www.cleanearthenergy.com

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Manufacturing award-winning ground source heat pumps from a former mining site near Truro, Kensa Heat Pumps is one of the UK’s green growth leaders, outselling multinational manufacturers to become the UK’s favourite brand of ground source heat pumps for five years running.

Working with self-builders, installers, social housing providers and developers across the country, Kensa’s pioneering approach to the installation of district ground source heat pump systems represents vital national infrastructure, and is now recognised by Government as worthy of exceptional financial support through the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, to ensure ground source heat pumps emerge as the default choice for off-gas properties.

Although winners of multiple national awards, Kensa is still passionate about its home turf, notably receiving a triple win at the 2017 Cornwall Sustainability Awards for their work with Coastline Housing. www.kensaheatpumps.com

22/08/2018 17:15

HOW BUILDING WITH NATURE

ADDS VALUE Cornwall is being transformed; major developments all over the county are gaining momentum and breathing new life into business centres and communities. This represents the ideal time for the industry to work together to ensure that these spaces represent true value for developers, the public and the environment PHIL HILLS, DIRECTOR, CORNWALL ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS

emand for new housing is at an all-time high, with plans for 52,500 new homes to be built in Cornwall by 2030.

Together with the creation of new retail and science parks, pressure is being placed on our green spaces.

Cornwall’s landscape has been described as its greatest single economic asset and its unique character is a major factor in attracting both business and tourism. Recognising the value that this asset holds and the best way to enhance and utilise its features is the starting point for a new development initiative - ‘Building with Nature’.

Cornwall Environmental Consultant’s (CEC) landscape architects and ecologists already have extensive experience and expertise in creating ‘green infrastructure’ for housing and commercial developments.

This means creating networks of multi-functional green spaces within developments. These could include parks, open spaces and woodlands, together with street trees, allotments and private gardens. They can also encompass water bodies and features such as green

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roofs and walls.

Now, recognising the growing demand for clear strategy and direction around the theme of green infrastructure, CEC is promoting a new benchmark for its design and maintenance.

The new Building with Nature accreditation is an affordable way to make sure development is more sustainable by building on existing guidance and focussing on the three key elements of water management, wildlife and well-being.

Major developers are realising that in order to make their sites stand out, they need to ensure plans include good quality green infrastructure. These have been shown to deliver a significant boost to return on investment, for example Port Sunlight River Park in Northumberland saw a 5.4% increase in house values as a result of integrating a park and other green spaces into its design. Not only does it increase the attractiveness of a site; it is also now recognised as a cost effective and resilient way to deliver a wide range of economic, environmental and social benefits.

Crucially, green infrastructure is recognised

by the council in its Green Infrastructure Strategy (2012) and is now a part of Cornwall’s Local Plan. As a result, considering it early on in a scheme and following the Building with Nature guidance can assist the overall planning process by reducing risk and could result in fewer objections, obstructions and constraints. CEC’s recent Woodland, Landscape and Ecological management plan for Hall Wood, a luxury holiday development of sustainable lodges, helped to secure planning approval by bringing all this information together.

We know that access to good quality green areas improves people’s health and well-being, whilst the resulting strong sense of place also makes them more appealing to stakeholders and local communities.

Developments that include Building with Nature features such as parks, orchards or wildlife corridors, green roofs and Cornish hedges produce better quality more attractive places to live, work and play.

Nature also benefits from increased provision of habitats and food sources. CEC’s innovative landscape design for the Truro Park and Ride

Major developers are realising that in order to make their sites stand out, they need to ensure plans include good quality green infrastructure

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SUSTAINABILITY

SECTOR

BELOW: GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE DESIGN INCORPORATING SUSTAINABLE DRAINAGE AND RECREATIONAL AREAS

BELOW: SEVEN FOLD INCREASE IN WILDLIFE AT TRURO PARK AND RIDE

ABOVE: BUILDING WITH NATURE THE NEW BENCHMARK

has seen a seven-fold increase in wildlife since it was built in 2008, demonstrating that even the most unlikely public spaces can achieve net biodiversity gain.

Flood risk can also be reduced, as developers who adopt the Building with Nature benchmark are encouraged to incorporate sustainable drainage and flood mitigation schemes. This approach can actually cost less to construct than building and maintaining engineered solutions by using and adapting existing natural features, which also works well for wildlife.

Building with Nature for the first time sets out clear guidance for developers to realise the potential of green infrastructure and a roadmap for architects and planning consultants to follow. The benefits are long lasting and will provide Cornwall with the rich landscape it deserves.

Cornwall Environmental Consultants Tel: 01872 245510 Email: enquiries@cecenvironment.co.uk www.cornwallenvironmentalconsultants.co.uk

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TheManor

House

&

The Ideal Corporate Venue in the Heart of Devon

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COMPANY

MEDIA

PROFILE

YOUR DIGITAL SUCCESS PARTNER

Everest Media is a virtually all-encompassing digital agency that has grown from a husband and wife team of two to 17 in the space of just a few years.

This is off the back of its ‘partner’ ethos and now a strong team that aim to deliver a strategy that achieves digital success for its clients.

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COMPANY

PROFILE

he story of how the business started is an interesting and courageous one and goes to show that maybe there is never ‘a right time’ to start a business and that sometimes you just have to take a shot at it, whatever the circumstance.

Samuele and Allanah Armondi valiantly started the business in 2014 from their spare bedroom, which at the time was based in the North West, with no capital to invest and a two-year-old child – but regardless, decided to go for it.

When Business Cornwall met with Everest Media, Samuele Armondi reminisced about buying their first office chair off eBay for £35 along with an Ikea desk. But armed with Allanah’s background in content management together with Samuele’s technical one, the business had the basis to get going and start delivering for clients.

Then, in 2015, just as the business started to grow, it was relocated to Cornwall. Setting the scene Samuele described how, as a family, they had been holidaying in Cornwall and that one particular evening they were sat at Porthminster Kitchen, St Ives, on the balcony, gazing out over the harbour as the sun went down – Allanah commented, ‘we should live here’, and no less than eight weeks later they had sold their house and moved to Cornwall.

Everest Media has now evolved to be a fullservice digital agency which describes itself as being a digital success partner, with the aim of helping businesses achieve digital success, in

26

whatever guise that might be.

Services include; strategy delivery, technical development, web development, search engine optimization (SEO) and conversion rate optimization (CRO), amongst others. And don’t let this make you think they’re spreading themselves too thinly – Everest Media has a team of 17 (and growing) who are split into dedicated teams of expertise from a high caliber of people. For example, its head of technical practice previously worked on cyber security within the government whilst head of digital practice came from a senior position within a large digital marketing agency - both of whom therefore having their distinct skills and experience. Rarely do you find the strength and depth of this level across such a broad service offering.

Samuele, added: “Everest now has the armoury to tackle each of the specialist digital areas in a convenient, one-stop-shop format that makes it easier for our clients to keep track of. Much easier than managing multiple agencies and typically there will be lower costs as a result of fewer margins.”

The Digital Success Partner ethos is something that says a lot about this business. It depicts a shared journey and a more personal investment in its clients. One that aspires not just to do what it’s asked of but to face challenges and generate ideas in a flexible way that will forge success. Something which consequently lends itself to long term success for both Everest Media and its clients alike.

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COMPANY

Based in Pool Innovation Centre, its offices are indicative of a business which has attention to detail, creating a quality environment which both rewards employees and breeds productivity – it is an uncluttered space with contemporary and bespoke furnishings, as well as spacious breakout areas, all flooded with natural light.

Samuele and Allanah have no regrets about relocating the business to Cornwall and strongly believe they’re in a better position because of it – They say they have found their perfect balance which accommodates fast growth, sustainable business practices and a brilliant lifestyle.

On the subject of growth, Samuele commented: “We have a clear goal - we would like to be rated as a top 100 agency in the UK within the next three years and the leading company of our kind in the South West.

“As well as having this as a personal goal of the business, our ambitions also stretch further to help continue growing the wider technology sector in Cornwall and assisting in putting the Duchy on the map in this regard. As part of this Everest is launching a series of targeted one-onone digital workshops for local businesses which aims to establish what might be limiting some businesses in achieving digital success.”

Everest Media has been designed to offer its clients a full range of digital services so that they need not have to look elsewhere. This has necessitated a fast growing team so that it has the required resources to substantiate this

Everest Media has a clear goal – it would like to be rated as a top 100 agency in the UK within the next three years and the leading company of its kind in the South West.

PROFILE

offering, with the capacity to accommodate clients both large and small. Together with its digital partner ethos that in principle ensures it has your best interests at heart makes for a compelling proposition.

It is also a great example of a technology business which has created a large number of high value, skilled jobs for Cornwall and helping the duchy get noticed both nationally and internationally within this sector. Expect to hear more and more from this young business.

www.everest-media.co.uk p: 01872 300780 a: Pool Innovation Centre, Redruth TR15 3PL

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PKF

FRANCIS CLARK

TAX

Tax is a necessary part of running a business which needs understanding and managing. We catch up with Daniel Sladen ( tax partner) and Scott Bentley ( Truro managing partner ) at accountants and business advisers PKF Francis Clark to talk about some of the areas where they have been helping clients recently

development will pay income tax or CGT, and there are new tax filing requirements which can give rise to large penalties if missed. It’s definitely an area where it’s essential to take the right advice at the start of a project – something as simple as building a new house at the end of the garden can generate unexpected tax costs if it’s not thought about carefully.

Many people are saying that the government will need to raise taxes across the board soon.

How do you see that playing out?

What’s the biggest issue in taxation at the moment?

Daniel: We don’t kid ourselves that anyone wants to be interested in tax, but most people are interested in the impact it can have on their wealth. Right now though, the biggest issue is process: the speed of change to a digital cloud-based tax system where data sources are interconnected and information flows automatically. It’s probably a bigger change in the profession than even the introduction of computers. Over time, people will only need tax experts for specialist advice.

Scott: As a firm we are already anticipating this change. As well as serious investment in the technology needed to support the transition, our staff development and training is focused on advisory work, making sure we’ve got the team to give our clients what they need in the future.

Fortunately for tax advisers everywhere, the demand for high-quality advice has never been higher as the tax system gets more and more complicated each year, so we’re continuing to invest in our graduate training scheme and see the move away from compliance work as more of an opportunity than a threat.

Daniel: It’s great to see the team progressing

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through the training programmes. Just this year we’ve promoted CTA-qualified Becky Hayward to assistant manager specialising in the agricultural sector and Jess Marshall, who completed our chartered accountant graduate scheme has had the opportunity to join one of our family office clients on secondment to provide tax support on high-value property and estate planning issues.

So what kind of areas do you see your advice being needed in?

Scott: We’ve seen major growth in property activity over the last couple of years as the taxes involved get more complex. SDLT is just one change: it’s moved from being a simple charge handled as part of conveyancing to a complicated tax that requires specialist advice, often with five-figure sums at stake. Steve York and others in our team work with many local property professionals to help make sure that buyers don’t overpay SDLT or miss out on exemptions.

Daniel: Generally property is an area where the government are trying to raise tax and combat offshore structures which has led to a raft of new tax rules recently. Taken together they mean that it’s much harder to be certain whether a

Daniel: It’s hard to make predictions in such a chaotic political environment but there’s certainly more chance now of big changes than there has been for a long time with the breakdown of any centrist consensus and the increasing influence of the more extreme elements in both of the major parties. Headline tax rates are at historically low levels but it’s hard to raise them - politically, the easiest tax changes to make will be those which are difficult to understand and don’t affect many people.

Scott: I keep wondering how much longer we will see such disparity between the Capital Gains and Income Tax rates. The government is clearly aware of the incentive this gives to structure transactions as capital rather than income and in recent years has introduced further legislation in a bid to combat that. I am not so sure that a future government might simply look to harmonise the rates whilst retaining some sort of relief for businesses.

Daniel: Yes, and the inheritance tax reliefs for transfers of businesses and agricultural property also look generous. We are seeing an increase in the number of clients who want to undertake restructurings or succession transfers now to lock in the benefit of these tax rates, and our advice is not to risk delaying plans and perhaps paying more tax in future.

Speaking of future risks, can we mention Brexit?

Scott: this is certainly something worrying our clients, particularly those with cross-border sales

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PKF

FRANCIS CLARK

or supply chains. We’ve been gearing up to help them by strengthening our indirect tax team which is headed up by Julie Towers who splits her time between our Truro and Exeter offices.

Julie has been building the only dedicated customs duty team in the region who can help businesses react to the risks of a bad Brexit outcome.

Daniel: We’re also seeing an increase in enquiries from companies looking to relocate or expand into EU countries to protect their business. However Brexit is by no means the only international challenge at the moment – last month I was in the US with our PKF colleagues discussing a recent Supreme Court ruling that could have major implications for UK businesses selling to US customers. This and the recent US tax reforms may make a big difference to how businesses look to expand internationally and it’s great that we have access to tax experts across the globe through the PKF network to make sure we can give comprehensive advice to our clients.

The Truro Tax team can be contacted on 01872 276477 www.pkf-francisclark.co.uk

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EDUCATION

FEATURE

THROUGH THE YEARS T The education sector has a vital role to play in shaping Cornwall’s future working generations ADVERTORIAL

he importance of a child’s education very much begins in the early years.

“At Truro School we believe that a child’s early years education lays the foundation for their future,” says Kate Williams, early years coordinator at Truro School Nursery.

“It is a crucial stepping-stone to full time education, and where a lifelong love of learning is sparked. Selecting the right nursery can feel like a daunting task, and there are a number of factors to consider when deciding which one is right for your child.

“Look for a varied curriculum that encourages children to take a learning journey that is unique to them. Early years education should build confidence and encourage independence, helping to improve communication through speaking, reading, and writing.

“Nursery is also a fantastic opportunity for children to establish relationships with one another and develop the social skills that are so crucial for readying themselves for school life.”

Continuity of care is another consideration, says Kate, in helping

children settle into nursery life.

“A child’s early years of education is the first step on a long journey of learning,” she says. “It should be a place where their minds are stimulated and creativity encouraged.”

At the other end of the education spectrum, Truro and Penwith College has just been celebrating a record year of high achievement, with a 99% pass rate overall at A level, against a national pass rate of 97.6% And 90% of Truro & Penwith College students passed with the higher grades of A*-C, which is up four per centage points and far superior to the national A-C grade pass rate of 77%.

Delighted principal, David Walrond, says: “These really are outstanding results.

The rise in higher-grade achievement is particularly pleasing in the context of the new, more challenging linear A levels. I am delighted for all the class of 2018 and I wish them well in the many exceptional university and employment opportunities that now await them. I pay tribute to the excellent teaching and support staff here who have worked with them to make this happen.”

EXETER GRADUATES SHARE PASSION FOR FASHION

Two University of Exeter politics graduates have taken their passion for style and created a business initiative that transcends borders using fashion 30

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FEATURE

Meanwhile, Truro School’s Sixth Form has been thinking of ‘Life After A-levels’, with a special week-long initiative aimed at helping students prepare for the next step in their lives.

The Sixth Form utilised its extensive former pupil network and the wider community, allowing students to meet professionals in a wide range of sectors and benefit from their first-hand insights.

Students started the week with a variety of workshops where a series of leading figures from regional business took to the stage and rounded off with a visit from former Scotland Rugby manager, Guy Richardson, who delivered an inspirational talk on leadership qualities.

Nancy Kenward, a former recruitment consultant and now head of careers at Truro School, says: “Between the ages of 16 and 18, young people are faced with a mammoth decision; should they begin applying for university or enter the world of full time work?

“Apprenticeships and gap years are also popular options. With so many pathways to consider at such a young age, it is understandable why young people up and down the country can sometimes pick the wrong university course or enter the wrong industry. The workshops are all part of our aim to help students make the right choice for them, first time.”

EDUCATION

A CAREER IN IT An initiative to prepare young people for a career in Cornwall’s burgeoning IT sector is proving productive.

Software Cornwall alongside Cornwall College was named ‘Provider of the Year’ in the west and south west by the Careers & Enterprise Company.

The Careers & Enterprise Company was established by the Government in 2015 to help schools and colleges, employers, funders and careers programme providers to create high impact careers and enterprise support for young people.

The Education Outreach programme, run collaboratively by Software Cornwall and Cornwall College, is one of the first programmes of its kind to be developed and delivered. Software Cornwall director Belinda Waldock said: “The programme has been a great success and is essential to ensure our young engineers are aware of the fantastic career opportunities here in Cornwall and guide them onto the best tech career pathways for them personally.

Jobs in Cornwall’s tech sector provide the level of careers our young people aspire to, however the pathways are often unclear which is why the provision of Education Outreach within our sector is so important.”

LEFT TO RIGHT: TRURO AND PENWITH COLLEGE STUDENTS LARA HENNINGS, BYRON WOOD, ALANAH WICKETT, SARAH FROST, CORMAC MILLER

rowing up in vastly different cultures, from Lagos to Lancashire, and Cairo to Lincolnshire, Isi and Nadia came together when they shared a room at university whilst studying at the Penryn Campus. They soon realised that despite their differences in race, religion and ethnicity, they were both searching for fashion pieces that were budget friendly, stylish and conservative.

Noting the lack of inspirational modest fashion on the British market, Pan by Nade was born.

Their designs are aimed at bringing together a community which celebrates diversity, inspired by traditional garments from around the world.

Following support and mentorship from Exeter’s

Think Try Do programme Pan by Nade’s first line, the Classic Collection, is to be released in 2018, taking inspiration from the Asian Kimono, Middle Eastern Abaya and the West African bubu.

Nadia says: It has been great getting support from Think, Try, Do as they’ve really helped us get in contact with key people in our industry, and acted as a soundboard bringing new ideas and insights to the table. David, the Student Startup Officer in Cornwall has been especially approachable and enthusiastic, which has boosted our confidence and ambition.”

With values that are based around people

and their relationship with the environment, the brand aims to follow up with lines using the latest in sustainable fabric technology, including textiles made from bamboo, recycled plastic bottles, QMilch (waste soured-milk) and lyocell (wood pulp).

Additionally, they have worked to ensure that their production process is beneficial for all those involved; they plan to use certified ethical manufacturers and suppliers and are in discussions with Hoda Katebi’s Refugee Sewing Cooperative to launch a range in early 2019. For more details visit their website www.panbynade.co.uk or Instagram @panbynade.

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Truro & Penwith College

Business

Consultancy services, professional qualifications, Apprenticeships and bespoke training packages.

Designed in partnership with employers.

From ages 3+

open morning Join us to discover how we can give your child the best start to education.

24 November 2018 10.00am to 12.00pm truroschool.com prepenquiries@truroschool.com 01872 272616

Get in touch to discuss your requirements. t: 01872 242711 e: business@truro-penwith.ac.uk w: truro-penwith.ac.uk/business

FOUNDATIONS for the FUTURE

VALUE OF APPRENTICESHIPS

M

ark Williams is a partner at RRL, a leading independent firm of chartered accountants and chartered tax advisers based in Cornwall. Here Mark explains why he believes that a well-structured apprenticeship scheme is one of the smartest investments a business can make.

A common misconception that I frequently encounter is that apprentices are solely about forward planning, and that a business will not reap any benefit until the individual has completed their training. In my experience, given a little responsibility, apprentices quickly thrive and soon become vital members of the team.

In the world of accountancy, training and development should be a continual process.

Our industry is constantly evolving, with technology playing an increasing role in how we work. To remain ahead of the curve, firms should focus on developing a culture in which learning and knowledge sharing is part of the day-to-day running of the business. I believe that investing in a well-run apprenticeship programme is key to this, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm into the workforce and encouraging better collaboration.

At RRL, our apprenticeship programme is at the core of our growth strategy. By developing the next generation of staff from within the firm, rather than trying to recruit people to fill sudden business needs reactively, we are futureproofing the organisation.

Hiring an apprentice is a commitment. It requires an investment of time and money, but the value that an apprentice will add to your business in the long run will pay this back many times over, enabling you to train someone with the skills they will need to become a valued member of your team.

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ADVERTORIAL

The next time you are looking to recruit, consider whether you could hire an apprentice – you may find yourself surprised by how much they bring to your business.

For more information visit www.rrlcornwall.co.uk or call 01872 276116 or 01736 339322

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FEATURE

EDUCATION

TOMORROW’S LEADERS

AVAILABLE COURSES

Existing and future leaders are being given a helping hand to develop the skills needed to lead their business through change with eyes firmly fixed on Brexit.

C

CB Training, part of the Cornwall College Group (TCCG), is the project lead and along with its delivery partner will receive up to £1.5 million of funding from the European Social Fund as part of the 2014-2020 European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme in England.

The funding will be used to provide leadership training for those employed in private and public sectors across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, as well as specific opportunities for women in business to work together.

This new part-funded project, Developing Leaders, is set to help, according to Sally McAuley, head of business and professional

across the region,” she comments.

Developing Leaders project offers a suite of programmes that can be accredited from Level 2 to Level 5 by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) or Chartered Management Institute (CMI). All courses are 80% funded subject to criteria.

“The wide range of courses not only offers individuals the opportunity to take time out of the workplace to reflect on their own practice,” comments Sally.

“It offers a wide range of learning activities according to the particular programme including workshops, individual and group activities, leadership coaching and mentoring, experiential learning opportunities, industry expert speakers and personal psychometric profiling.”

“Leadership training is an important component in ensuring we futureproof our business.”

Paul Smith, training director at CCB Training, who says it is an “opportunity not to be missed”.

“This exciting project will not only develop skills for those taking their first steps onto the leadership ladder but also provide opportunities for those operating at a strategic level to work together with other senior leaders

Developing Leaders is a three-year project ending in May 2021 and Sally urges companies and individuals to get in contact with CCB to take up this opportunity while the funding is available.

“All courses will be delivered in various locations across the breadth of Cornwall

Leading a Team Level 2 CMI Award, this course is scheduled frequently across the year starting 7th November in Truro, only £120 with funding per delegate.

Mentoring as a Leader Level 2 ILM Award, this course is scheduled frequently across the year starting in 2019, only £120 with funding per delegate.

Leadership Essentials Level 3 CMI Award, this course runs five times per year starting October 2 in Truro, only £150 with funding per delegate.

Leading with Integrity Level 5 ILM Certificate, this course runs four times per year starting November 6 in Truro, only £595 with funding per delegate.

Strategic Leaders course offers leaders and emerging leaders a threeday intensive leadership residential workshop. This course is delivered annual starting in February 2019, only £895 with funding per delegate.

and the Isles of Scilly enabling businesses from all sectors to take advantage of this opportunity,” she explains.

“A series of courses delivered by women for women are scheduled to help increase their skills and confidence plus grow opportunities to work together.”

Look out for CCB Training’s Developing Leaders roadshow coming to a town near you. These free events enable you to find out more about the project plus network with like-minded people. Contact CCB to find out more or book on 0800 731 7594, email hello@ccbtraining.co.uk or visit www.ccbtraining.co.uk.

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GROWTH

PROGRAMME

ACCELERATE YOUR From prototype design to the introduction of robotics, Acceleration Through Innovation (ATI) focuses on delivering simple, but highly effective, innovation support to Cornwall’s most ambitious SMEs

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TI’s bespoke, expert advice helps to identify and develop Cornwall’s leading business ideas, working with innovation tools and techniques successfully exploited by organisations such as NASA, 3M and Google. ATI recognises that great ideas can come from very surprising beginnings, from start-ups to some of Cornwall’s largest businesses.

The programme develops a culture of innovation across all levels and connects businesses with valuable networks across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Over 200 businesses have benefitted from the programme since the project launched last September, with a number of groundbreaking innovative projects taking place.

SMEs engaging with ATI are invited to the exclusive Masterclass with industry expert Professor Sa’ad Sam Medhat, CEO of the London-based Institute of Innovation and Knowledge Exchange (IKE). Lucy Farmer, from the Big Bean Bag Company, states: “This has been the most informative course I’ve been on. I feel like I have taken away a lot of new techniques and methods to apply to the innovative thinking within our business.”

The £3 million project, led by the University of Plymouth and funded by the European Regional Development Fund, has opened the third Popup Innovation Centre offering businesses the opportunity to utilise hot desks, work with IKE accredited advisors, and host their own events.

The project welcomed an additional month of support in St Austell, following on from the success of the pop-up centres in Bodmin and Launceston, before it headed on to Liskeard in

August.

David Brock, of Cornish Partnerships, says: “I think the main benefit has been the team’s recommendations for people I can work with – it’s a great signposting service. The facilities available to hot desk, hold meetings and host conferences are some of the best in the county. I had an hour-long meeting with an advisor that was extremely useful for my business, and the events are very helpful.”

Tony Westington, managing drector, Spinnaker International Ltd, adds: “The key to our success is innovation. The University of Plymouth has provided workable solutions using the latest cutting-edge technology, specialist skills and expertise that would not otherwise be accessible. The relationship between Spinnaker and the University continues to flourish.”

If you are seeking ways to take your business innovation further, ATI has a number of routes to explore your potential and add value to your organization, whilst offering niche expertise.

Contact ATI today: ati@plymouth.ac.uk / 01209 705 166. To discuss eligibility, visit www.aticornwallinnovation.co.uk and enquire with a live business advisor.

The key to our success is innovation. The University of Plymouth has provided workable solutions using the latest cuttingedge technology, specialist skills and expertise that would not otherwise be accessible

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PEOPLE

ON THE MOVE

SPONSORED BY www.sapiencehr.co.uk

ON BOARD STEAMSHIP GROUP

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group has appointed Cornish accountant Gary Randall to its board of directors.

Randall has been practising as a chartered accountant for the last 25 years. In 2013 he merged his business - Ward Randall - with Prydis to broaden the services provided to clients of both companies and become MD of Prydis Accounts.

He said: “As a proud Cornishman, the opportunity to join the board of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group presented an ideal chance for me to use my skill set to help a business which is so vitally important to the county."

LAWYER JOINS RRL

MUTU MARKETING MANAGER Mutu System has appointed Lyssa-Fêe Crump as its new marketing manager.

Crump was previously marketing manager at outsource development company, Headforwards, and also served on the committee of not-for-profit organisation, Software Cornwall.

Truro-based Mutu System is a digital solution to the physical and emotional challenges that women face after childbirth. Its recently relaunched online programme has 50,000 users worldwide.

Commenting on the appointment, CEO, Wendy Powell, said: “We are delighted to have her onboard to steer, grow and implement our international marketing, as well as to lead the public launch of our UK site later this year. Lyssa is a delight and an inspiration, she is a huge asset to the team.”

Chartered accountant and tax adviser RRL has welcomed solicitor Nick Latimir to its team.

Latimir, who joins from Coodes Solicitors, specialises in the preparation of wills, powers of attorney, administration of estates, tax planning and trusts. In his new role he will be heading up the RRL’s probate team, based in the firm’s recently-opened Penzance office.

RRL partner, Nick Skerratt, said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Nick to the team and I fully expect him to be an excellent fit with the firm.”

PROMOTION FOR A P MD A&P Group MD David McGinley has been promoted onto the board of parent company Atlantic and Peninsula Marine Services Limited (APMS) as managing director.

While McGinley will retain his day-to-day responsibilities at ship repair business A&P,

which has a facility in Falmouth, his new role introduces other APMS subsidiaries including Atlantic and Peninsula Australia PTY, Penrynbased Marine Designs Ltd and Falmouth Docks and Engineering Company Ltd.

NEW PROJECT FOR CHRISTIAN

The Eden Project has appointed Truro solicitor Christian Wilson to its board.

Wilson is a partner and head of corporate and commercial at Stephens Scown’s Truro office. He has more than 20 years’ experience in advising clients on business matters and in particular employee ownership.

He said: “I am delighted to join the board of Eden. To be part of a force for good on a global scale based here in Cornwall is inspirational.”

NON EXEC CHAIR JUDITH DONOVAN WELCOMES CHRISTIAN WILSON

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NEWS

SPONSORED BY

#FSBCONNECT

www.fsb.org.uk

SEARCH ON FOR SW SMALL BUSINESS STARS The search is on again to find and reward the most outstanding small businesses in the south west.

The FSB has now officially launched its ‘FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards 2019’ which will culminate in both regional and national finals in the spring.

Small businesses throughout the south west will battle it out for prizes across 11 different categories and the awards are open to both FSB members and non-members alike. Entry is free and all interested small and micro-businesses and self-employed individuals have until December 14 to enter in as many categories as they wish.

The south west regional winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony at the home of Somerset County Cricket Club in February and will then go forward to the

FSB CONNECT NETWORKING national UK ‘FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards’ final, where the overall FSB UK Small Business of the Year 2019 will be crowned in May. There are sponsorship opportunities available and any firms interested in raising their own profile alongside these high-profile awards should initially contact Ann.Vandermeulen@fsb.org.uk For further information and to enter the awards visit www.fsbawards.co.uk

FSB CORNWALL 'SCHOOL FOR SMALL BUSINESSES' St Austell Conference Centre will become the ‘FSB School for Small Businesses’ for the day on September 19.

The event will feature 15 professionallytutored, hour long, masterclasses to choose from to learn new business skills and ask questions in a friendly environment. There will also be B2B networking, new contacts and opportunities to find some more ongoing business support. A completely flexible, business friendly day where you can come and go as you please.

The classes are limited to 20 people to maximise benefit and cost just £8 each. You don't have to be there all day. You book the parts of the day that you want to attend.

Between classes there will be opportunities to

network with your new contacts as you switch from one class to another and of course there will be refreshments throughout the day. There will also be a networking lunch open to all, which can be attended independently from the rest of the event also at a charge of £8 per head. For full details, go to fsb.org.uk/regions/ south-west From 5pm to 6.30pm you have the opportunity to stay on and attend the Cornish Partnerships Open House Networking event - a chance to chat to even more new people, give out your business cards and make more useful contacts. No need to book if you attend this FSB event, but if attending separately please book direct with www.cornishpartnerships.co.uk

IT’S TIME TO #THINKSELFEMPLOYED! Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that around 18% of the labour market in Cornwall are self-employed. This is a significant proportion of our local economy here and is 3% higher than the national average.

Ann Vandermeulen, development manager for FSB Cornwall said: “Recent ONS figures have inspired FSB to recently embark on a national #ThinkSelfEmployed campaign to highlight the need for us all to get behind this valuable sector who are so often overlooked for support and yet have a set of tough issues to overcome before they even start work.

At FSB (and particularly in Cornwall), we say to Government and authorities, ‘ignore the self wmployed at your peril!’.”

More about the campaign can be found on the FSB website (www.fsb.org.uk). Do join us in this campaign, even if it's just posting a social media selfie (if you run a business a picture of you or if you don't run a business how about a selfie with your favourite self employed small business) with the hashtag #ThinkSelfEmployed and tagging @FSBCornwall @FSB_policy to show your support. Thank you!

Open to all. All events can be found on Eventbrite for easy online booking #FSBConnect Heartlands - Are you fit for business?

Thursday 6 September 11am-1pm, Red River Cafe, Heartlands TR15 3QY Ultra-marathon runner Edward Chapman, will give you tips and advice on how to ensure you're fit for business. #FSBConnect Cornwall - Let's talk about Tax Thursday 13 September 11am-1pm Sands Resort, Newquay TR7 3LX Guest speaker James Cordiner from FSB Tax Service, will present top tax tips and advice for filling in that tax return. There will be a sandwich lunch as well as Connect networking.

FSB School for Small Businesses Wednesday 19 September, St Austell Conference Centre Doors open 10.15am, first class 11.15am St Austell Conference Centre will become the "FSB School for Small Businesses" for the day. Details in the article above.

Our Next MP Round Table Meetings: Free to attend – raise your issues face to face with your MP Derek Thomas Friday 7 September 12 noon Wharfwide Shopping Centre, Penzance Join us for a discussion focused on your business issues with your local MP for St Ives. Derek will be on hand to answer any questions you have for him as well as bringing you up to date on plans that the government have for small businesses.

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23/08/2018 09:42

TOURISM

NEWS

SPONSORED BY

www.visitcornwall.com

HOLIDAY HIGHS REACHING OUT TO AMERICA Cornwall is one of thirteen destinations featuring as part of Tour England, an AngloAmerican ‘Connections’ project promoting the growth of one of England’s most successful export industries - inbound tourism.

Tour England will feature itineraries centred around the themes of ancestral tours, Faith and Religion, Wartime and the Special Relationship and the Great Migration period including Mayflower.

Fionn Davenport, Lonely Planet author and award-winning travel journalist has been appointed as the content creator for the Tour England ‘US Connections’ project and is visiting sites in Cornwall that appeal to the US inbound market.

Visit Cornwall chief executive, Malcolm Bell, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be participating in this project and working to generate more awareness around England as a tourism destination for the US inbound visitor market and we’re really looking forward to welcoming Fionn here and sharing the regions history and AngloAmerican connections.

“Cornwall also has such a huge history within the mining industry. Over three million US people, particularly from the West Constance area, descend from Cornish mining so it is great for Americans to visit Cornwall our county and learn about their rich heritage.”

NICER THAN NICE

Cornwall is one of the top places in the world to buy a holiday home for best return on investment, says a new report.

According to the research from online holiday insurance provider Schofields, those looking to invest in a Cornish property to rent out, stand to receive a greater ROI than properties in such locations as Nice or Miami.

ADVERTORIAL

Topping the list, with a 26.02% ROI is Kissimmee in the US, also known as Florida’s theme park central. Investors could see a potential return of over £30k each year.

Next up is Barcelona (18.78% ROI), followed

by Cornwall (12.01%) and Nice in fourth place (11.96%).

A new study from digital marketing agency, Everest Media, has revealed an online surge in demand for holidays in Cornwall, during the peak of the recent heatwave.

The Heatwave Search Report, which analyses Google search data for dozens of regional locations, found that during July, the volume of Google searches for the term ‘holidays in Cornwall’ increased by 45% compared with the previous year, while demand for bed and breakfast accommodation was up 65%.

Newquay was the most searched for Cornish seaside resort with the volume of searches up 4.8% year on year (YoY), while St Ives (+12.10%), Looe (+225%), Padstow (+45%), Bude (+42%), Perranporth (+36%), Carbis Bay (-15%), Falmouth (+363%), Par (+73%) and Hayle (-11%) completed the top-top ten.

As the country sweltered in record-breaking temperatures, many people decided to flock to Cornwall’s golden beaches. The most searched for beaches during the heatwave were Kynance Cove (+118%), Porthcurno (+84%), Sennen Cove (+42.8%), Perranporth (+32%) and Mawgan Porth (+60%). While Gwithian (+200%), Crantock (+111%) and Godrevy (+100%) saw some of the biggest YoY rises.

CELEBRATE YOUR WEAKNESSES

Face your skills gaps head on; it will be good for your business and good for you, says Ian Watkiss from the Skills Hub 38

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TRAINING

SPONSORED BY

EDUCATION

www.truro-penwith.ac.uk

NEW HEAD AT TRURO HIGH

Truro High School for Girls has appointed a new head to lead the school as it prepares to celebrate its 140th anniversary.

Sarah Matthews was most recently acting head of St Mary’s School in Shaftsbury and previously worked for Harrow International School in Hong Kong.

She said: “I am delighted to be joining such a vibrant and forward-thinking school that places the happiness of the

students at the heart of the curriculum, ensuring the girls flourish in every way.”

Commenting on the appointment, chair of governors, Anna Corbett, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Sarah Matthews is joining the Truro High family. She shares our belief that ‘happy girls achieve’ and her experience, knowledge and enthusiasm helped her stand out in what was an incredibly strong field of applicants for the position of head.”

FOCUS ON CAREERS Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly is to become one of just 20 ‘Careers Hubs’ across England to help transform careers education for young people following a successful bid led by the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

Careers Hubs are made up of local schools and colleges working together with universities, training providers, employers and career professionals to improve careers education.

No business or business person is perfect.

Even the most successful business people have something that they could do better or something that always lingers on the to-do list.

For some it’s using Excel spreadsheets, for others it’s business planning, digital marketing or public speaking. Sometimes it doesn’t matter - there’s somebody else in the company that is a whizz with Excel or knows how to master Facebook algorithms leaving you to focus on what you’re great at.

When teams are small though there is much less wriggle room. Ignoring the bits of the business that you don’t like doing will slow productivity and cause a drag on efficiency. Worse still, it could

The LEP-funded Cornwall Enterprise Adviser Network has been chosen by the Careers & Enterprise Company to host one of 20 Careers Hubs as part of a £5 million Government project over the next two years.

Tim Bagshaw, head of operations at the LEP, added: “We’re delighted our bid to host a Careers Hub has been successful and it will help bring educators and employers even closer together, through the work of the Enterprise Adviser Network.”

make doing business less enjoyable and take the shine off why you started the business or took the job in the first place.

There’s good news though. Very often just a small change will make a big difference. Learning how to use Excel formulas could cut your workload by half, getting to grips with Twitter scheduling could make managing your social media less painful. Training has the power to not only transform your weaknesses but also transform your business.

At the Skills Hub, by matching businesses with the right training, we help businesses face their

IN SURVIVAL MODE

Savvy students are in survival mode after launching a business targeting last-minute learners.

The team behind the Student Survival Pack had a busy summer, preparing boxes of supplies for the bathroom, bedroom and kitchen ahead of a return to academia this month.

The first year Entrepreneurship cohort at Falmouth Business School - Harry Cole, Marcus Nelson, Alex Broadley and Alvaro Perez Ripolles - target new and returning students who either fail to bring or need support in sourcing the bare essentials for university life.

"When we came together and began thinking about ideas for our own business - which is a crucial part of the degree - we all looked at the things that students needed most to survive at university," said Cole. “We all reflected on when we started, and how some of us had underpacked while others had brought everything but the kitchen sink from their family homes.

That's how the idea came about, and everyone we've spoken to thinks it's a great concept.”

weak spots head on so that they can move forward and flourish.

To find out how the Skills Hub can help your business upskill and do things better, visit www.ciosskillshub.com or call 01209 708660.

The service is free, independent and unbiased.

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

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23/08/2018 09:44

CREATIVE

AND DIGITAL

SPONSORED BY

www.digitalpeninsula.org

NEW AGENCY LAUNCHES

THE STUFF OF DREAMS One of the south west’s most established independent creative agencies has expanded into Cornwall.

Stuff was formed in Bristol in 2005 and is run by founding creative director Richard Spruce and managing director Jonnie Galvin-Wright.

Its Cornwall office in Perranporth is headed up by Louise Wigmore as media and account director and designer and art director Chris Wigmore, who was one of the original

founding members of Stuff.

Louise Wigmore said: “This is a great opportunity for Stuff as the landscape for Cornwall-based businesses is truly taking off.

“I’m really looking forward to working with Stuff in helping drive the region’s economic prosperity and communicating some of the incredible stories that are taking place across the peninsula.”

GOOGLE DIGITAL GARAGE The Google Digital Garage returns to Cornwall this autumn, enabling businesses and individuals the opportunity to boost their skills for free.

In the last two years, over 200,000 people across the UK have benefitted from Google’s free face-to-face training on digital know-how.

Two Google courses will be available on the day at Cornwall Chamber’s Connected

Cornwall conference at Healey’s Cyder Farm on November 14. ‘Build a Digital Marketing Plan’ gives small businesses an introduction to the main digital marketing channels and how to use them while the ‘Social Media Strategy’ session explores how to create a social media strategy based on your business goals.

Visit cornwallchamber.co.uk for more details

MARKETING FORUM FORMED A new group has launched in Cornwall to bring together professionals working in marketing, PR and communications.

The Marketing Forum, founded by Fifteen Cornwall head of marketing, Katie Sandow, will hold its first event at Watergate Bay Hotel on September 21, featuring an interview with the hotel’s brand director, Judi Blakeburn, who was recently listed in Boutique Hotelier’s 2018 Top 10 unsung heroes.

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Sandow said: “I’m so pleased that Judi is joining us for the first ever Marketing Forum event. There are few people I respect more in the marketing arena and she has so much knowledge and insight to share.

“There’s currently no space for most marketing and communications professionals in Cornwall to really support and learn from each other so I believe there’s a real need for The Marketing Forum.”

Marketer Sam White has launched a new agency - PoC Direct Marketing.

Previously a partner of Piece of Cake Communications, White has launched PoC Direct Marketing and said: “Following GDPR, many companies lost a lot of the data they had been relying on for email marketing in particular. With my expertise in all aspects of direct marketing including postal marketing, I saw an opportunity to help businesses navigate through their marketing now the rules have changed.”

WITH ADDED VITAMINS Full-service design agency, Creative Edge, has merged with ‘digital innovation’ specialist Multivitamin Group.

Multivitamin has offices in London, Sofia and Kiev, and now following the merger, Truro.

The Truro office will continue to be led by Creative Edge’s existing management team of Melinda Rickett, John Lowdon and Dan Mitchell.

Lowdon said: "This is a unique opportunity for a Cornish agency to make a real impact in the sector and to achieve our ambitions of producing truly effective work. The capabilities and talents of the wider team are unrivalled in the south of England and we look forward to demonstrating this with our growing client base."

The combined agency leadership team will continue to be led by Jacob Beckett with James Holding continuing as MD of Little Vitamin and Louis Knight-Webb has been newly appointed as MD of Vitamin D.

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DIGITAL FORUM 2018- GET INVOLVED

Workshops and expert advice to adopt technology for growth #ScaleUpWithTech

S

uperfast Business Cornwall’s annual showcase event will be held at Hotel Victoria, Newquay on 27th September. Cornish businesses will be sharing how they have embraced technology to reduce costs, streamline operations and scale up their businesses. With presentations from Google Digital Garage and South West Cyber Crime team, workshops from local experts Eight wire on “Your Digital Brand” and “Personal Productivity” delivered by Cosmic IT, this is shaping up to be an essential date for any Cornish business. Spaces are still available to attend and business can get involved with the service until December 2018.

SUPERFAST BUSINESS CORNWALL HAS SUPPORTED OVER 300 BUSINESSES WITH IMPARTIAL ADVICE TO DEVELOP A DIGITAL ACTION PLAN.

One of the successful business owners the programme has supported who will be presenting his digital journey is Dan Dicker from Ashortwalk. He will share how he has scaled up his business by harnessing technology.

Ashortwalk is leading the way in transforming household waste into reusable, modern homewares and garden accessories. Set up in 2003, the Perranporth-based company manufactures high quality house signs, garden and household products from recycled paper cups, plant pots and used hops from Cornish brewer Skinners. Some 15% of the company’s

SuperfastFullpage.indd 1

sales are international. exhibiting. A great opportunity to find out how tech With the support of Superfast Business could work in your business.”

Cornwall’s Digital Adviser Dan Piper, the If you cannot attend the Digital Forum in company is embracing digital technology to help September then you can still sign up for the service increase its number of direct customer sales until December 2018. Take advantage of our Tech and better connect with an impressive client list 4 Growth workshops and our final programme of including Waitrose, Oxfam and National Trust.

Masterclasses covering a range of topics including; “We wouldn’t have been able to get to this GDPR, How to Free up Your Time With Tech. point without the support of Superfast Business Optimisation which will run this autumn.

Cornwall, and with our new digital focus, there If your business does not have access to are real growth opportunities for the future. speeds over 30Mbps the team can also offer We are already looking to take on two new advice on connectivity and signpost you to members of staff”. funding. talks from ‘Personal Productivity’ ‘Your Digital Brand’ Dan Piper added “ComeDigital and join us at2O18 DigitalLightning local businesses from Cosmic IT from Eight Wire Forum Forum our Digital Business Advisers will be Register your interest at: To see if you are eligible for thefromERDF funded project, South West Regional Google Exhibitors sfbcornwall.co.uk/workshops-events Cyber Crime Unit Digital Garage technology business available all day to discuss how technology can go to: sfbcornwall.co.uk/1-1-advice/eligibility support your business to grow. The experts For more information about the Digital Forum 2018, delivering the workshops are excellent and Workshops and Masterclasses throughout the year, we have some great local tech businesses go to: sfbcornwall.co.uk/workshops-events

Digital Forum 2O18

Lightning talks from local businesses

‘Personal Productivity’ from Cosmic IT

‘Your Digital Brand’ from Eight Wire

South West Regional Cyber Crime Unit

Google Digital Garage

Exhibitors from technology business

Thur 27 September, Hotel Victoria, Newquay

FUNDED BY

DELIVERED BY

Register your interest at: sfbcornwall.co.uk/workshops-events

23/08/2018 09:45

OPINION

JUST A THOUGHT

Never forget, we’re all in this together, says business consultant Orlando Kimber

The ‘One and All’ motto of Cornwall is a perfect literal expression of this and we feel it in every community that we belong to, whether it’s a village, sports team or workplace

ANGELS TALKING ow good can it get? I was running a consultancy, which I’d built from nothing to $11m turnover in the Middle East over just 18 months and everything was wonderful… until the parent company started behaving strangely.

At first it was late payment of expenses, then the wages didn’t come through and finally they ‘forgot’ to pay the rent on the villa. Not good. Not good at all as, under local law, their failure made me liable and put my liberty and possessions at risk. I sued them and won with expenses, but it took two and half years to receive only 40p in the pound on a substantial debt.

Then came the next bombshell, when my wife was made disabled by a medicine-induced illness. I began to reflect and write about the perverse behaviour of certain companies and governments, the effect on those that depend on them, and the impact on their own fortunes and reputation. Gradually it became clear: we’re all in this together. The ‘One and All’ motto of Cornwall is a perfect literal expression of this and we feel it in every community that we belong to, whether it’s a village, sports team or workplace. Awareness of this is the common factor in the outstanding companies that I’ve worked with. Failure to honour this bond results

in tension, unhappiness, poor communication and inefficiency.

That crucial insight has led to ‘Angels Talking’, a weekly podcast which reflects the best in our local enterprises. Unsurprisingly, each organisation has a clear set of values at their core. They include a high level of respect for their associates as well as a definition of true sustainability that resonates well for everyone in the business. This is important in an era of fluid international trade and climate change, as we all have a global perspective.

We know that there is an infinitely rich resource that can easily support us all, but that it cannot support our greed.

That perspective can be used at the smallest, local scale and applies to the management of the simplest company as much as to the most complex public authority.

Organisations that deny or ignore this truth are destined to fail, because they neglect the one thing on which they depend: the goodwill and interdependence of the staff, suppliers and customers.

It may be said: “Theory is fine, but the cut and thrust of business is not like that.” By way of response, each guest on ‘Angels Talking’ demonstrates that the core of their rich, vibrant business is an ethical culture. Even young companies that are ‘born good’ with high environmental ideals can fail to grasp this.

Established companies may have to review their beliefs and change the strategy, structure or culture of a business that some see as already successful. I can be a powerful ally in supporting this transition, whilst providing trusted and proven methods to increase sales.

The benefits to you include the creation of a genuinely sustainable business, steady growth and a contented productive workforce.

The aftershocks of 2008 and the doubt over Brexit ask particularly difficult questions about the country’s financial strength. ‘Angels Talking’ shows that we can all make a contribution to a new economy, but we have to be given the chance.

You can listen to the Angels Talking podcasts on businesscornwall.co.uk.

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CORNWALL

ADVERTORIAL

FIRST FOR FIRST AID If one of your staff or colleagues had a sudden illness or injury at work, would you know what steps to take?

K

ernow Training Solutions offers employers a range of first aid at work courses designed to provide a comprehensive set of practical skills, giving staff the ability and knowledge to deal with first aid emergencies.

Set up by experienced trainer Carl Tinkler, Kernow Training Solutions offers a three day fully certified OfQual course in First Aid at Work and a one day Emergency First Aid at Work course. Over the three days, attendees learn how to deal with medical conditions from asthma and bleeding to fainting and resuscitation. The one day course offers training in emergency procedures only such as seizures and use of a defibrillator.

But if the ‘off the shelf’ courses do not meet

LIGHTNING FAST When we say fast, we mean it with speeds starting from 20Mbps.

customers’ requirement, Carl is keen to emphasise his offering of bespoke training for individuals, groups and corporates.

“Listening to the customer and delivering the course that they want and not a carbon copy of each course has been my best business decision. The bespoke aspect is always greatly received.”

Customers who have attended Kernow Training Solutions courses certainly endorse this. “Carl is an engaging and professional instructor. A brilliant course with lots of valuable information, it’s given me the confidence that I would be able to respond appropriately in a first aid emergency if needed.”

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Carl set up the business after contacting leading business start-up experts, Outset Cornwall for support.

In addition to first aid at work, Kernow Training Solutions also offers paediatric first aid, refresher courses, school first aid and defibrillator training as well as the Level 3 Award in Education and Training designed to provide learners with an introduction to teaching/training in the further education and skills sector.

Contact Carl today on 07786 921275 or email kernowtrainingsolutions@outlook.com to discuss your training needs.

HARD TO REACH AREAS If your community is starved of broadband, look out for Wildanet coming your way.

Rolling out in Cornwall now! Find out if we can bring Wildanet to you at wildanet.com or call 0800 0699906

Outset_advertorial.indd 1

23/08/2018 09:48

CONNECTED

CORNWALL

SPONSORED BY

www.cioslep.co.uk

PRINT POWER Business Cornwall magazine and St Austell Printing Company got together to host a special event dedicated to helping businesses embrace the power of print RIGHT: JOHN CHAPPLE (PARAGON) BELOW: MATT BUNT (SAPC) MIDDLE RIGHT: KEY NOTE SPEAKERS JONATHAN TAME (TWO SIDES) AND DAWN REID (BPIF) BOTTOM RIGHT: DELEGATES AT PRINT POWER FACING PAGE TOP LEFT: DELEGATES RECEIVE A FACTORY TOUR TOP RIGHT: NICK EYRIEY (BUSINESS CORNWALL) BOTTOM ROW FROM LEFT: TREVOR LEE (TREVOR LEE MEDIA), PETER MOODY (SAPC), MATT BOND (TRURO & PENWITH COLLEGE)

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BUSINESS CORNWALL

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23/08/2018 09:49

CORNWALL

CONNECTED

POLY AT FALMOUTH The Poly hosted a special event to mark the launch of its new Friends of The Poly scheme

ABOVE LEFT: ROD HIRSCH (ROYAL CORNWALL POLYTECHNIC SOCIETY), KIM CONCHIE (CORNWALL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE), SARAH HERTZOG (ROYAL CORNWALL POLYTECHNIC SOCIETY), JOHN SPARGO (TALL SHIPS TRADING) ABOVE RIGHT: SUE RADMORE (ROYAL CORNWALL POLYTECHNIC SOCIETY), VICKY-REECE-ROMAINE (CORNWALL COUNCIL) BELOW LEFT: JONATHAN BRAY (TREBAH GARDENS), LYNN CHAMBERS (FALMOUTH UNIVERSITY), JUDITH HANN, (ROYAL CORNWALL POLYTECHNIC SOCIETY), GUY WATSON (TREBAH GARDENS) BELOW RIGHT: DAVE RICKETT (TRUSTEE, ROYAL CORNWALL POLYTECHNIC SOCIETY), TIM LAY & NATALIE OLIVER (HEATHER AND LAY ESTATE AGENTS) AND REBECCA HEANE (CREAM CORNWALL)

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23/08/2018 09:51

CONNECTED

CORNWALL

SPONSORED BY

www.cioslep.co.uk

NALDERS SUMMER PARTY Nalders’ Farley House office in Truro was the venue for the law firm’s summer party

TOP LEFT: CLIVE PEARCE (CLIVE PEARCE PROPERTY) TOP RIGHT: NALDERSPARTY18-010: PHIL WEAVER AND DALE BAND (BOTH NALDERS) FAR LEFT: JASON MITCHELL (PKF FRANCIS CLARK), LEE STUTT (NALDERS), FRAZER LLOYN-DAVIES (ACRONYMS), MELANIE ROWE (NALDERS), THOMAS MOORE (ACRONYMS) ABOVE LEFT: REBECCA STANDING (NALDERS), GLEN MCFALZEAN (LILLICRAP CILCOTT), KIYA HALLAM (NALDERS) ABOVE RIGHT: JOHN HARVEY (SAMPHIRE), AMANDA WILLIAMS (MARKETING CONSULTANT), PAUL RAGLAN (MINING SEARCHES UK)

Green & Black’s to speak at GrowthFest Co-founder of internationally renowned chocolate brand Green and Black’s, Jo Fairley, will be giving the keynote presentation to round off GrowthFest - a free business event taking place this month to celebrate the success of business support in Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly.

Green & Black’s confectionary brand has grown from a £20k start-up to a brand worth £100 million in less than 20 years.

Consistently a UK “CoolBrand” Green and Black’s is committed to business ethics, sourcing cocoa direct from third-world farmers and paying a fair price for its produce, becoming the first company in the UK to be awarded the UK Fairtrade Mark.

Jo will be talking about themes relevant to the whole local business community, from building a brand that speaks to consumers and growing a company from

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humble beginnings to ethical issues and environmental responsibility.

She said: “I’m delighted to be involved in GrowthFest and can’t wait to meet some of the fantastic businesses to be showcased.

Cornwall has a very strong brand, with businesses keen to grow and develop whilst also nurturing each other and their incredible environment, so I’m looking forward to talking to them about how those values helped me grow a multi-million pound business.”

Jo Fairley will be the highlight of the evening celebration after an afternoon of showcasing success, growth and outstanding talent from a range of exciting businesses. As well as interactive exhibits there will be lightening talks and workshops from businesses that have tapped into the support on offer GrowthFest is organised by the Growth Hub, an EU-funded project that works alongside

the Skills Hub to help businesses find the right support and training opportunities to work smarter and grow, and delivered in association with the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership.

GrowthFest will be held at the Royal Cornwall Showground on September 20. To book a free place, go to growthfest-2018.eventbrite.co.uk

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SEPTEMBER

EVENTS

SEPTEMBER EVENTS 6

9

CORNWALL CHAMBER LUNCH

Boconnoc, Lostwithiel

Come along to this fabulous venue and meet with some representatives of Cornish businesses on what we hope will be a nice late summer day! With some great speakers who will be passing on their knowledge and a delicious lunch, what's not to like? cornwallchamber.co.uk/events

CORNISH PIRATES V COVENTRY RUGBY

Mennaye Field, Penzance

For a truly memorable occasion, match day hospitality is the perfect way to entertain clients and colleagues alike. Match day hospitality starts at £25+vat. robyn.ashurst@cornish-pirates.com

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Linda Barker from Barclays will be this morning’s guest speaker.

Falmouth Business Club meets for breakfast on alternate Thursdays.

All welcome falmouthbusinessclub.co.uk

For further details of these and more networking events, visit

Pendennis Castle, Falmouth

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Mennaye Field, Penzance

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Hotel Victoria, Newquay

CORNWALL CHAMBER BREAKFAST

Penventon Hotel, Redruth

The Cornwall New Energy project is excited to invite local businesses to the Royal Cornwall Showground for a morning focussed on understanding how adopting electric vehicles and charge point infrastructure can generate interest and footfall for your business. cornwallnewenergy.com

CORNISH PARTNERSHIPS

FALMOUTH BUSINESS CLUB

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ELECTRIC VEHICLES SEMINAR

Truro Golf Club

Norway Inn, Perranarworthal

GROWTHFEST 2018

A celebration of business in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The Growth Hub will be showcasing the success and impact of the project and the businesses it has helped. ciosgrowthhub.com

Royal Cornwall Showground

Red River Café, Pool

Heartlands presents an excellent opportunity to meet other local businesses in the area, gain contacts and establish mutually beneficial relationships. heartlandscornwall.com/events

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The meeting is a relaxed networking group focusing on allowing participates to have valuable time to make new contacts to enhance your business. St Mellion will provide a full continental breakfast and unlimited tea and coffee for only £12.50 which will be paid directly to the resort on the day. cornishpartnerships.co.uk

Cornish Mutual is sponsoring this month’s breakfast networking gathering, at Redruth’s Penventon Park Hotel. cornwallchamber.co.uk/events

HEARTLANDS BUSINESS BREAKFAST

Cornish Partnerships would like to welcome you to the Truro Morning Network Meeting. This meeting is FREE for Cornish Partnership members to attend with visitors paying £5 to attend. Catering will be available for purchase but is not required. cornishpartnerships.co.uk

CORNISH PARTNERSHIPS

St Mellion, Saltash

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FSB SCHOOL FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

St Austell Conference Centre

St Austell Conference Centre will become the ‘FSB School for Small Businesses’ for the day featuring a number of masterclasses to choose from to help your business fly. fsb.org.uk/regions/south-west

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CORNISH PARTNERSHIPS OPEN HOUSE

Victoria Inn, Roche

Entrance free to all Cornish Partnerships members, £5 to guests. cornishpartnerships.co.uk

BREXIT CONFERENCE

A follow-up to last year’s successful What Next for Cornwall? event, which saw speakers from Brussels indicate the areas in which Cornwall may be most impacted. cornwallchamber.co.uk/events

CORNISH PIRATES V RICHMOND

For a truly memorable occasion, match day hospitality is the perfect way to entertain clients and colleagues alike. Match day hospitality starts at £25+vat. robyn.ashurst@cornish-pirates.com

DIGITAL FORUM 2018

A full day fully funded event highlighting how local businesses have embraced digital technology for growth. sfbcornwall.co.uk

FALMOUTH BUSINESS CLUB

Norway Inn, Perranarworthal

Steve Neale will be this morning’s guest speaker. Falmouth Business Club meets for breakfast on alternate Thursdays, where a lively and welcoming group of business people awaits. falmouthbusinessclub.co.uk

OCTOBER 3 WILD BUSINESS NETWORKING St Austell Conference Centre

www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/ businessevent

businesscornwall.co.uk To publicise your event here for free, email news@businesscornwall co.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL

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THE LAST

WORD

EDVARD GLÜCKSMAN This month, the University of Exeter’s impact partnership development manager for the EU-funded Tevi Project, has the final say

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG? Believe it or not, I really wanted to be a baseball player! I grew up at an international school in Brussels and a lot of my friends were from North America. I love the cultural aspects and history of the game.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB? With the European Geosciences Union (EGU) in Munich, where I spent a year working in science communication. The job also gave me an appreciation of just how much work goes into amplifying the impact of science well beyond the comfort zone of many researchers.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX? I’m an avid short-distance runner and the Cornish climate and scenery makes it a pleasure to pound the pavement, even in the middle of winter.

IF YOU COULD BUILD A HOUSE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD WHERE WOULD IT BE? Réunion Island. French cuisine, Indian

Ocean lifestyle and an incredible range of views on a tiny island.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER? I loved the travel when I worked in with environmental and engineering consultancy Wardell Armstrong, based at Wheal Jane. It’s rare to find a job that takes you from Bissoe to Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia or Rwanda.

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

Wenger and Angela Merkel. Two obsessive, diplomatic, empire builders. What could possibly go wrong?

IF YOU COULD BE GOD FOR A DAY, WHAT MIRACLE WOULD YOU PERFORM? Truly high-speed rail linking Cornwall to London!

WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST MISTAKE IN LIFE? As a student, I lived up country for eight years but never once crossed the Tamar!

WHAT WAS YOUR LUCKIEST BREAK? Full of beer and meat, and under the spell of awful Schlager music, I sat down next to a cute stranger at Oktoberfest in Munich. Next thing you know, we’re married and living by the sea in Cornwall!

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME? Looking back on the

Tevi project as a wonderful success, having supported over 200 Cornish companies to grow whilst contributing to the county’s beautiful environment, and building upon those results.

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TRURO INVESTORS

We don’t mean to boast…

LOOKING FOR OPPORTUNITIES IN CORNWALL

Renault ZOE – 100% electric

Ideal candidate business would be distressed, cash poor or just having difficulty growing, ideally in a growth sector You must have drive and ambition with some existing clients and have provided a product/service in the last year Available today at Dales Cornwall

1968–2018

OPTIONS COULD INCLUDE Merger/Partnership/Purchase/Finance

Dales & Renault Celebrating 50 Year Partnership

CO2 while driving: 0 g/km; MPG: n/a according to NEDC homologation tests.

Book a test drive Wheal Rose Scorrier, Redruth TR16 5BX Tel 01209 821133

To arrange an informal meeting please call Emily on

Summercourt, Newquay TR8 5YA Tel 01872 511600 www.dalescornwall.co.uk Dales & Renault Celebrating 50 Year Partnership

07961402448

Celebrating 50 Year Partnership with Renault

All discussions in confidence.

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Stylish Christmas Party Nights at “Modern Luxury Hotel of the Year 2018”

With a red carpet entrance, welcome drink, stunning 4 course festive menu, and live DJ through to the early hours Call 01637 872244 | www.atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk

Every Friday and Saturday night throughout December RECOMMENDED DATES: • Friday 30th November* £26.95pp • Saturday 22nd December* £27.95pp *including a complimentary Balcony Suite for the organiser

Voted Modern Luxury Hotel of the Year 2018 by The Luxury Travel Guide

Cornish technology is changing the world again.

Software for Automation

+44(0)1209 705 160 | sales@n-coders.co.uk | www.n-coders.co.uk|

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Cornish Mine Images

25/09/2018 09:46