CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION
businesscornwall.co.uk
SEPTEMBER 2019 | ISSUE 133 | £3.95
FACE TO FACE WITH TOM RAFFIELD
CLIMATE CONTROL
SPOTLIGHT ON SUSTAINABILITY
FUTURE FOCUS
TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS
09
09 9 772514
842001
Looking for Adventure? take on a challenge in 2020 Cornwall Air Ambulance is working with Global Adventure Challenges to bring you the most exciting events for 2020. Test your limits by joining Team CAAT on one of these stunning treks – either in the UK or overseas – and help save lives in Cornwall.
KILIMANJARO TREK
24 September – 4 October 2020 Trek through dense tropical rainforest and across diverse landscapes up to the snow-capped peak of the world’s highest free-standing mountain.
THE ALPS TREK
GET INVOLVED These events are fantastic for local companies to get involved with as they motivate employees and encourage team work.
17 – 21 June 2020 A unique opportunity to experience three countries in three days, taking in the incredible views that this part of Europe has to offer – from stunning cliffs, to gorgeous glacial waterfalls.
SNOWDON AT NIGHT TREK
Your business could inspire employees by offering to match fund any money they raise – a great way to highlight your philanthropic and supportive business culture and it doubles the donations made to the charity, which doubles the work we can do!
8 – 9 August 2020 Explore the highest mountain in Wales by moonlight with incredible views of the stars. Follow the Llanberis track to the summit and take in the breathtaking sunrise across this stunning mountain range.
This year local businesses raised over £10k by taking part in challenges.
For more information about all of the exciting challenge events on offer, visit:
cornwallairambulancetrust.org/events
Alternatively, contact Sarah Walker, Challenge & Events Officer, on 01637 889926 (ext.122) or email sarah.walker@cornwallairambulancetrust.org Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust Trevithick Downs, Newquay, Cornwall TR8 4DY | Registered charity 1133295
SEPTEMBER 2019
ISSUE 133
INSIDE FEATURES 10 CEO INTERVIEW IN CONVERSATION WITH HANDMADE LIGHTING AND FURNITURE CRAFTSMAN, TOM RAFFIELD
16 ROUNDTABLE DEBATE FIVE BUSINESSES EXPLAIN THE IMPACT THAT THE FUTURE FOCUS PROGRAMME HAS HAD
21 SUSTAINABILITY HOW BUSINESSES CAN HELP CORNWALL MEET ITS CARBON NEUTRAL TARGETS
28 EDUCATION AND TRAINING UPSKILL YOUR BUSINESS
34 BUSINESS GROWTH WORKSPACE COMES OF AGE
REGULARS 4 INCOMING HOW IMPORTANT IS SUSTAINABILITY TO YOUR BUSINESS?
6 BUSINESS NEWS SPANISH ARMADA!
36 ON THE MOVE WHO’S GONE WHERE
37 FSB FSB NEWS UPDATE
38 CREATIVE & DIGITAL GOONHILLY GOES GREEN
39 TOURISM NEW OWNER FOR DAIRYLAND
40 EDUCATION NEWS BUSINESS TRAINING AWARDS
41 JUST A THOUGHT WITH PIRAN TECHNOLOGIES’ ALEX PUGH
42 TEST DRIVE MORVETH WARD GOES ELECTRIC WITH JAGUAR I-PACE
44 CONNECTED FUN IN THE SUN ON THE FAL
47 EVENTS DIARY NETWORKING DATES
48 THE LAST WORD WBW SOLICITORS’ HELEN DAVIES
PHOTO: THE FUTURE FOCUS ROUNDTABLE DEBATE SEE PAGE 16 FOR FULL STORY
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 1
SEPTEMBER 2019
CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION
businesscornwall.co.uk
SEPTEMBER 2019 | ISSUE 133 | £3.95
FACE TO FACE WITH TOM RAFFIELD
CLIMATE CONTROL
WELCOME
BY EDITOR NICK EYRIEY
ISSUE 133
SPOTLIGHT ON SUSTAINABILITY
FUTURE FOCUS
TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS
09
09 9 772514
842001
9 772514
842001
ON THE COVER TOM RAFFIELD INTERVIEW
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nick Eyriey nick@businesscornwall.co.uk
HOPE AND TREPIDATION May I be the first to wish you all a Happy New Year. It’s not that I’m being ridiculously premature, it’s just that in so many ways, September does mark the sense of a beginning. The rugby season gets underway, children begin a new year at school, people return to work after their seasonal break and the local road system breathes a sigh of relief as Cornwall empties out and returns to normal after the summer influx. After those crazy, hazy, lazy days of summer, we begin to look forward again to what lies in store, with a mixture of hope and trepidation, depending on whether you are a glass half full/empty kind of person; a Brexiteer or a Remainer.
PUBLISHER Toni Eyriey toni@businesscornwall.co.uk
Many people in the business world, of course, are struggling to think much further ahead than Halloween, which (at time of going to press) marks the day that the UK – “do or die” – will leave the EU.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Morveth Ward morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk
Businesses hate uncertainty, but I’m not sure whether the use of language in such black and white terms in filling them with too much confidence at the moment.
ACCOUNT MANAGER Caroline Hill caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS PFA Research
Generally, however, many Cornish businesses tend to be an optimistic, glass half-full lot. The subject of this month’s CEO Interview, Tom Raffield, describes himself as a great optimist, but also tremendous worrier.
DESIGN & PRINT Design by Business Cornwall 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
And he will certainly be full of hope and trepidation at the moment, having just moved his business from his back yard (albeit very large back yard) to modern new (and expensive) premises in Falmouth.
TONICK BUSINESS
PUBLISHING
Optimism is also something that binds together the five businesses we gathered around the table on page 16, to discuss their experiences of the Future Focus programme.
SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@businesscornwall.co.uk 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.
Future Focus is, of course, one of the EU-funded programmes that Cornwall currently benefits from. It has proved to be an invaluable tool for many businesses in Cornwall and makes it all the more puzzling that Cornwall was one of the regions that voted Leave.
Business Cornwall Magazine is proud to be associated with
2 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
(or PMS 871c as it’s known in the trade)
We’ve just won the environmental printer of the year award! Fresh from the podium (if not hot off the press), we just had to let you know we’ve been awarded a prestigious industry gong. We’re still glowing with pride after the recent PrintWeek Awards – the gold-standard of the UK printing industry – named Nationwide Print as the country’s environmental printer of the year. We’ll spare you the teary-eyed details of the ceremony, but we will say what an honour it was to be recognised for our soaring solar powered printing talents, knockout green technology (including a rather nifty electric car) and our carbon-neutral record – along, of course, with our lightning-quick litho, digital and large format printing. So, while we clear space on our mantelpiece, why not take a moment to share our success and get in touch with the eco-friendly printing olympians of the world*. Selfie, anyone?
Nationwide Print Holmbush, St Austell, Cornwall PL25 3JL T: +44 (0)1726 72548 W: www.nationwideprint.co.uk E: estimating@nationwideprint.co.uk
* Strictly speaking the UK, but allow us our moment of glory.
INCOMING
THE CONVERSATION
The big question The focus for this month’s magazine is sustainability and the environment. How important is sustainability to you and your business? Are there any special measures/ policies you adopt to reduce your carbon footprint? Join the conversation @biz_cornwall
/businesscornwall
businesscornwall.co.uk
ADVERTORIAL
BUSINESS MODELS FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE FIRMS The corporate world is renowned for “maximising shareholder value”, but is it fit for the future framed by a climate emergency, asks Stephens Scown partner Christian Wilson? Christian Wilson is partner and head of the corporate team at Stephens Scown. He is an expert in the legal aspects of employee ownership. He will be presenting a session on employee ownership at the Cornwall Festival of Business on October 31
4 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
THE CONVERSATION
PAUL CLARK
SARA-JAYNE CROWLE
Sustainability is a critical factor for me - without it, whatever our apparent successes, we are just rearranging deckchairs on the Titanic! I’m heartened that Cornwall Council has declared a Climate Emergency and I’m working in the background on practical Green policies needed to deliver it.
Sustainability is part of St Eval’s core values and incredibly important to us. As a company we are continuously evolving and growing. We have a dedicated environmental team who keep this top of our agenda ensuring we recycle and repurpose, as part of our commitment to ‘tread softly on the earth’. All our production is powered via renewable wind, solar and biomass energy on our farm.
Packet Ship
For Packet Ship we’re proud to be in a highly energy efficient building, Tremough Innovation Centre, and I’m happy that I can walk to work. My colleagues do drive in but we are well positioned to avoid this in the future if we can get public transport sorted out - maybe with shared on-demand minibuses scheduled with AI support?
JAMES GAZZARD
WES Engineering Solutions Within the manufacturing and engineering environment it is frustratingly difficult to reduce our carbon footprint as much as we would like. We have covered the roof in solar panels but it only covers a proportion of our electricity costs, we use shredded paper for packaging but customers aren’t so keen, we use the friendliest coolants, lubricants, oils, and grease but they are still not great for the environment. We try to go paperless in the office but engineers like to see and hold a drawing. We encourage cycle to work and car share schemes but our employees are widely spread. We do our best, but we wish we could do more!
Emerging concepts are changing the business world; that profit, people and the environment are not mutually exclusive values. Purpose. Employees, customers and investors are demanding that a company has clear purpose – the answers to all the why questions. Purpose may be found in strategy/ mission documents and absence thereof is becoming recognised as a weakness. B Corp. Certified B Corporations are businesses that meet the highest standards of verified transparency and accountability as well as social and environmental performance. B Corporations need formal changes to a company’s articles, hardwiring these values into the company’s DNA.
St Eval Candle
ALEXA CLARKE Glas Data
We aim to better agriculture’s sustainability and environment with our dashboard. GlasCore supports farmers and agribusinesses; it is an innovative decision support system. The demand for precision farming grows as the global population increases, and agriculture must be more sustainable whilst preserving its environment.
NATALIE CROUCH Peaky Digital
Sustainability has been a big focus for Peaky this year. We’ve committed to a paperless system and implemented cultural changes within the team including advocating meat-free Mondays and replacing meetings with video conferencing where possible. We’ve done
Employee ownership. EO offers a succession or growth plan which secures the values and culture of the business, allowing a business owner to realise the value of the business and know that their employees are not only secure, but that they now own the business that employs them. EO businesses still need to be profitable, but the employee owners can choose to forego the maximum profit in favour of sustainable goals.
INCOMING
a complete overhaul of our promotional items and just put in a purchase for ecofriendly merchandise including bamboo cups and reusable straws which we’re excited to distribute at upcoming events!
JAMES SCOTT
NCI Technologies In the IT industry, due to the way most products are manufactured in the Far East, we are responsible for a lot of transportation miles being accrued before a device reaches an end-user. At NCI Technologies we try to offset the carbon generated through transportation by having a large solar panel array on the roof of our building to help reduce the amount of power we need to import from non-renewable sources.
GARY HALL Webmate
Since 2017 we set out to be 100% carbon neutral, which we acheived in April of this year by reducing our carbon footprint by half and offsetting the remaining 20 tonnes of carbon through national and global innitatives. Reductions for us included replacing hundreds of spinning hard drives in our datacentres with SSD’s - which consume 80% less power, using LEDs in our offices and using an electric pool car. It also means sourcing the electricity we do use as responsibly as we can with 50% being renewable and an aim of 100% renewable by next year.
embracing these values not only survive but thrive. Perhaps we can finally dispense with the notion “greed is good” in favour of “green is good”.
For more information please call Christian on 01872 265100, email corporate.cornwall@stephens-scown. co.uk or via www.stephens-scown.co.uk
Adding in circular economy, sustainability, 1% for the planet and giving back policies, there are many ways of being good corporate ancestors and there is plenty of evidence to show that companies BUSINESS CORNWALL | 5
CORNWALL
BUSINESS NEWS
SPONSORED BY
cornwallchamber.co.uk
ARMADA HEADS FOR SPAIN
A Cornish company is opening a workshop in Barcelona as it looks to expand its services in the global superyachts sector. Marine hydraulics specialist, Armada Engineering, will be located at MB92 Barcelona, one of the largest superyacht refit shipyards in the world.
From this month, an initial team of four staff from Falmouth will be based in Barcelona from September, with further staff to be recruited. “The fast-growing superyachts sector represents a fantastic opportunity for Armada Engineering,” said MD, Joff Collins.
SHOW BOOKINGS TO OPEN
Now in its ninth year, stand bookings open this month for the Cornwall Business Show. Businesses interested in exhibiting at the event at the Royal Cornwall Event Centre on March 12, are advised to get in touch as soon as possible. Cornwall Business Show 2020, which is being supported by JHAV, Cornwall Live and Business Cornwall, is anticipated to be the biggest yet, with more stands and an updated floor plan, bringing together businesses from a wide range of sectors. Interested companies can request eBrochure via cornwallbusinessshow.co.uk
ADVERTORIAL
THE WINTER WIND DOWN As the sun sets on summer, it’s a good time for reflection, suggests Fastnet Marketing MD, Sarah Leverton
6 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
For many in the marine industry, September marks the end of the busy summer season. Maintenance and preparation for next year begins, alongside all of those jobs that got postponed until ‘later’. But it can also be a great time to take a well-earned breather. Time to reflect on the past year can result in some fascinating insights, helping you to further streamline your processes, improve your overall service delivery or increase your customer reach.
BUSINESS NEWS
SPONSORED BY
CORNWALL
sapc.co.uk
KELSALL STEELE SOLD One of the UK’s fastest growing business advisory firms is expanding into Truro for the first time after acquiring one of the city’s longstanding accountancy practices. Kelsall Steele Chartered Accountants, which has been operating in west and mid Cornwall for more than 70 years, has been bought by the Baldwins Group and has changed its name to Baldwins with immediate effect. Staff will remain at their existing office.
NEW FACILITY TO CREATE 150 JOBS Construction work has begun on Kensa Heat Pump’s new manufacturing and office facility. The 900sq m premises, on its current site at the former Mount Wellington Mine near Truro, will enable the ground source heat pump manufacturer to produce 30,000 ground source heat pumps every year, which, it says, is the carbon savings equivalent of taking 60,000 cars off the road.
It can be difficult to develop the structured thought-process needed to make this a truly productive exercise. This is where involving a third-party can be extremely helpful. Having somebody independent involved to set the agenda and generally keep you on-track can be an excellent way to ensure you make the most of your review session. They can then become your ‘accountability partner’, ensuring that you stick to your plans and achieve your goals. For some, a friend or family member can fill this role, but often we find it hard to be truly honest and open about business with the people we’re closest to. If this is the case
NEWS IN BRIEF BERNARD POOLEY, MATTHEW GARD & MALCOLM PETERS Kelsall Steele MD, Bernard Pooley, will continue to lead the firm’s Truro office, alongside Malcolm Peters. He said: “This spells great news for our clients as we can use Baldwins’ national coverage and depth of specialist expertise to further strengthen our business advisory services.”
St Austell Printing Company was named Green Company of the Year at the Print, Design and Marketing Awards. MD, Peter Moody, said: “Sustainability and the environment are at the heart of everything we do.” ____________________ Merlin Cinemas has opened its latest screen. The new Capitol Cinema in Bodmin follows an eight-month £1M project to convert the Bodmin Public Rooms into a four-screen cinema. It is the company’s sixth picture house in Cornwall and director, Geoff Greaves, said: “We look forward to bringing the enjoyment of cinema to people in and around Bodmin in what I believe is a beautiful building that has now been successfully re-purposed.” ____________________ Liskeard business consultant Clay Cowie has been awarded membership of R3: The Association of Business Recovery Professionals. Cowie, who is a consultant with SMART Turnaround, said it was “an honour” to be accepted by R3. ____________________
Kensa says the expansion will make it the largest low carbon business in Cornwall, providing up to 150 jobs. Like its current factory, the new premises will have underfloor heating and hot water fed by a ground source heat pump harnessing heat from water from the flooded mine below. MD, James Standley, said: “Kensa’s new manufacturing facility provides us with the capability to build on what we started here in Cornwall 20 years ago, and make a huge impact on the UK’s transition to a low carbon economy.”
for you, why not consider a Strategy Day with Fastnet Marketing? You’ll work one-to-one with me, and together we’ll develop a comprehensive 12-month plan that takes the lessons from 2019 to help drive your success in 2020 and beyond.
Stephens Scown LLP has promoted Ben Jones from the dispute resolution team to senior associate, while Chris Morse from the employment team and intellectual property specialist Kathryn Heath have also been promoted to senior associate. Charlotte Crane from the residential property team has qualified as a solicitor, while Helen Redington from the family team is now a chartered legal executive. ____________________ Rachel Picken, who runs Truro-based Agile PR & Communications, was named as Outstanding Independent Practitioner at the national Chartered Institute of Public Relations Excellence Awards.
Not sure if a session would be useful to you? I offer a free, no-obligation 15-minute consultation to discuss how your Strategy Day could work. To book your free consultation call the Fastnet office on 01326 250879 or email me direct at sarah@fastnetmarketing.co.uk
I’ve embarked on this process with companies from all corners of the marine sector, so I have a clear understanding of how to structure the day to make the most of your time. I will then create an individual Strategy Report which captures all of those actions on an easy-to-follow timeline for the coming year.
www.fastnetmarketing.co.uk | 01326 250879
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 7
ADVERTORIAL
in good
hands
Fast growing accountancy firm Whyfield is continuing to expand its client base after finalising two acquisitions in Cornwall this month
The Truro-based firm was approached by AS Herd & Co and Accountant Cornwall Ltd who recently announced their retirement from the world of accountancy with a view to taking care of their clients’ future accountancy needs. Laura Whyte, MD at Whyfield, commented: “We’re fully committed to supporting businesses in Cornwall so we were delighted to be considered by AS Herd & Co and Accountant Cornwall Ltd given their great reputation, to see if we can support the needs of their loyal clients. “These acquisitions have presented a fantastic opportunity for us to further grow our firm at a time where we are streamlining processes for clients and recruiting more local talent, so the timing was perfect.” Alan Herd, proprietor of AS Herd & Co, said: “Whyfield is an award-winning firm with a wealth of knowledge in cloud accounting which our clients will increasingly need in the years ahead. I wish them all the very best.”
These acquisitions have presented a fantastic opportunity for us to further grow our firm
Geoff Pym of Accountant Cornwall Ltd explained: “I’m really pleased that Whyfield will be able to offer its services to our clients. As a firm which is growing both locally and responsibly, I am very confident they will be in good hands.” 8 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
The firm has successfully expanded its client base to over 800 with 50% growth over the past 12 months. In that time Whyfield was also the first firm in the South West to be invited on to HM Treasury’s Women in Finance Charter; won an International Association of Bookkeepers mentoring award at the Houses of Parliament; named as Business Leader of the Year at the Cornwall Business Awards and had two of its accountants named in Cornwall’s 30 Under 30 of rising stars. This recent news is very much part of the overall Whyfield story which has seen two young women create a business which has taken the region by storm, redefining the very essence of accountancy in the area. Along with Roxane Neave, Laura Whyte started the business because they could see that the industry needed to adapt and operate in a modern, digital world.
That vision undoubtedly paid off and today Laura and Roxane run a hugely successful business that has a reputation for encouraging young talent for the future. The Whyfield apprenticeship scheme is no ‘bolt on extra’, it’s at the very heart of what the business does and the reason for that
is because that’s the very same journey that Laura and Roxane went on before setting up their own business … it must be hugely motivating for the young talent at Whyfield to see, first hand, just what is achievable. Since it started the business has not only continued to grow but has also continued to win plaudits, friends and of course awards. Those awards, which seem to have been won on a monthly basis, have been for everything from business leader awards through to recognition of work with apprentices. But although the awards are great to receive, client satisfaction is by far the most important achievement, because that means that they’re doing their job properly. In addition, all of its 14 strong team have passed further profession accountancy exams and the firm has gained cloud knowledge recognition by achieving both Platinum Partner Status with QuickBooks and Gold Partner Status with Xero. The acquisitions were completed with legal support from Nalders LLP.
whyfield.co.uk | 01872 267 267
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Be careful what you wish for. Designer and steam bender extraordinaire Tom Raffield might have been happy just making lights in his garden shed. But it hasn’t quite turned out that way. An appearance on TV’s Grand Designs, and life was never to be the same again CEO Feature & Cover photographs by Toby Weller
10 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
TOM
RAFFIELD
Raffield How did it all start? I had graduated from Falmouth and created a new steam bending process. I was completely unemployable and as a result set up a company with two other colleagues called Sixixis, which tried to change the world with steam bent wood. It didn’t work out, although we had lots of fun, but after two years we realised we hadn’t really payed ourselves yet, let’s do something else. So, I basically took the things that did work and set up under my own name. In the early days I was quite happy just doing bits of stuff and going surfing. We went travelling for six months and I got married and when we got back we wanted to buy a bigger house where we could also have a workshop. So, we started taking it more seriously, and in 2012 we moved here.
part of the business form the early days and then in 2012 we took on a first apprentice and it spiralled from there and we saw double growth every year.
And in 2016 you appeared on Grand Designs We didn’t realise how big it would be, a bit stupid really! We already had John Lewis and Heals contracts, so it was already happening and growing, and then we did Grand Designs. They film so much; we really thought it would be about the house, but they focused on everything including the business. They do something like 500 hours of filming, but when we sat down to watch it, the focus was on the products and our business as well. It really catapulted our sales, but not necessarily in a good way. We were growing organically and having all those sales suddenly coming in, we couldn’t cope. We didn’t have the infrastructure, every bad thing that could have happened did. We ran out of power, had to get in loads of shipping containers; planning enforcement were on our case. We had just had our third child as well which probably didn’t help matters. It was a very stressful time!
The orders were literally coming through as soon as the programme had gone out
My wife, Danie, started working with me around 2010, partly to help me build up stock so we could go off travelling. I left it all with my mum and went off for six months. Poor mum, to this day she has never forgiven me because it got quite busy then! Danie’s been an integral
The orders were literally coming through as soon as the programme had gone out. The online shop was going ding! ding! ding! And it can take hours to make each product; we just couldn’t scale up.
How did it come around in the first place? We had the old game keeper’s lodge and six acres of woodland, an outside toilet, grade 2 listed. It was tiny and we were living in it with two kids and we thought we would be able to develop one of the barns to have extra living accommodation, but English Heritage were so restrictive in terms of what we could do. They didn’t want us to touch the aesthetics of the building, which we appreciated completely, so they said how about building - at the time this was a big bank of earth - how about building into the land so it is hidden more. I explained how I would love to do it out of materials I found on site, so if we excavated, we would use all the stone, if we had to cut down any trees, they would be used for the house. We had a bank of materials we could use, also tyres from the local tyre place. Straight away we knew it would be a really interesting, exciting project. And if I’m honest, I think the idea was if we went on Grand Designs, we could get builders and building materials cheaper. And also, people would see our lampshades on TV. How fantastic would that be! We didn’t really think beyond that and neither did we have the money to invest in the business just in case it did take off after Grand Designs. Because we were building the house, money was so tight anyway. There was no way we could have created a bigger infrastructure and also at the time we were thinking we should probably move (workshop premises), because we were running out of space. So that was how the house happened and how we didn’t really prepare for it; but it was pivotal. If I was to do it again, though, I would prepare. Massively!
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 11
Did you have any say on the final edit? No, not at all. You just don’t know how it’s going to turn out. Towards the end they create slightly different narratives and you can sort of see where they’re going. The editor at the end said it was going to be a great one and it was; I think it was the most popular in the series. We were overwhelmed; it was a very true representation of what happened. I think my wife would probably say she would be happy if we had never done it! But I’ve always been “come on, we’ve got such an opportunity, so much potential”. My wife has always been about the lifestyle side, but unfortunately, I think I’ve ruined that with my ambition! When you started the business, was it for the lifestyle? With Sixixis we were so optimistic and ambitious. You know how it is, everybody thinks their own idea is the best thing in the world. And we really felt like that. We were really excited about it, but it didn’t work. When I set up on my own, I was like, do you know what, I just want to go surfing, have a family, have time off. But the nature of me doesn’t allow that.
And now you are moving into a new site in Falmouth, that must help?
With growing the business, the beauty for me is as it grows you start doing the things you really love doing again
For the first time we’re actually getting a sales team and we’ve also got an MD. With growing the business, the beauty for me is as it grows you start doing the things you really love doing again, which for me is design. After Grand Designs we had 12 people and everything was in my head. I never used processes or systems, I literally just told people what to do and it worked really well.
But when we got to 12 people and Grand Designs, I remember thinking the processes and systems I’m using don’t work anymore because they’re all in my head. I needed help. Rosa came in from Watson Marlow as MD, she’s a management accountant, and she’s brought with her loads of processing systems. What we’ve done over the past couple of years is really invest in the foundations of the business and create a good structure and good processes - HR, health & safety, marketing, finance. Now we’re going to have a sales team which is going to be really pivotal for us; for the first time we’re going to be offensive on how we approach sales. The last years have been great creating the foundations, but now the next phase is growth and efficiency. As the business has grown, have you had to learn how to run it on the hoof so to speak? Completely. There’s a running joke, my writing’s terrible, I type with two fingers, but I really excel in the workshop. Running a team in the workshop, making things, designing, I’m good at that but I’m extra bad at admin. We have all these systems and processes, but I can’t stick to them! I’m the lone ranger in the business where I can’t fit into the models we’re creating, which is very frustrating for Rosa! So, are you going to stay on the factory floor? Not really. The production works really well. Chris came from the Eden Project, he was a project manager there, he’s so good. I’m very creative. We’ve got a bespoke manager, a workshop manager and then Chris the production manager and he brings it all together. I advise and help him, but really it’s all about scheduling. It might not
12 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
look like it, but it’s quite a tight ship. We work on sub-assemblies, a bit like the Watson Marlow way of working, we get orders, put them together and send them out. It requires an incredible amount of scheduling and using software platforms. I can’t do that, but I can help with problem solving and definitely the design. And I design through making, so I’m always getting my hands dirty developing new techniques for steam bending, new ways of using materials. That’s what is exciting for me. Did it start with the lights? After Sixixis, I had a small garden shed and a little steamer in the corner, and I was able to send out one or two lights a day which was brilliant. We had a small range of three or four lights and as the sales for that grew, I moved back to Krowji, where we worked as Sixixis in the old science lab, and I was really able to develop the range. Then I had some bits of furniture, some smaller accessories, and the range has evolved from there. In those days we just sold through the website. Then we did a trade show in 2011; all we could afford was a tiny stand right next to the toilet, but we did really well and picked up some good contracts. We kind of got the business model working then, we knew we could make a good margin on the lights, we knew the bits of furniture added value to the lights, we made less margin but were still profitable. As we grew, I was freed up because I was getting more people to make the stuff, somebody was doing all the admin, I was able to start designing and develop all my own tooling. We outsource quite a bit now, which is good, so we just stick to our core, which are the steam bent parts no one else in the world can do. For us it’s about sticking to our ethos and integrity, making the best quality products we can and creating something that doesn’t already exist - heirlooms of the future. Are you going to get imitators coming along? There already are so many. It’s frustrating, but it’s the way of the world. In the last ten years there have already been people doing similar things and there’s things in China; there are blatant rip-offs, but every design company has this problem. Our philosophy is just to keep innovating,
TOM
don’t go after people. We develop something, after we’ve developed it we scour the Internet to make sure it’s not happened and chances are we’ll find something very similar. The lighting market and furniture market is crazy which is why we find it really important to do these bespoke projects. The makers love it because they’re doing something new rather than making the same thing every day, and also people go into London and see this big kiosk in Hyde Park, and it’s steam bent, it’s unusual. They look at it and see who’s made it and then hopefully buy a lampshade! We really want to inspire people with innovation. We started the bespoke stuff about a year ago. We’ve done the Royal parks. We’ve got eight or nine of these huge eight-metrelong coffee kiosks, really unusual shapes; reception desks for the Institute of Physics; we’ve done several show gardens, spiralling big benches, we’ve just done the Hampton Court one which got best in show. We’ve done loads of things. Usually they are quite expensive, maybe £10k to £100k projects. And we will always try and do something that doesn’t already exist. It’s really exciting but you have to be careful with doing bespoke, because for a year I basically lost my life worrying about all these kiosks, doing all the engineering design work for them. You have to be careful because it takes us away from our everyday business. It’s exciting and fun, but actually not as profitable. The limiting factor is you can only make one bespoke thing at a time. Poor Chris our production manager has been a bit like “oh my God, not another bespoke job”!
clotted cream and then this other identity, as an edge of the earth, creative, inspirational place. And we’d love to be associated with that, but we don’t want to be known as this pastiche company. We put so much time, effort and passion into innovation, even though we’re using craft processes, it’s so important for us not to be labelled a Cornish brand in the sense of WC Rowe, Rodda’s and others. They’re fantastic, but we’re just aware of that. We do lots of work with Seasalt and Frugi and seeing how they’ve picked up on the Cornish identity and used it, but we’re just worried about picking up on it in the wrong way. So, could you be based anywhere in the UK? No because we love it here. Cornwall has shaped our company, which is why it would be nice to go on about it more than we do. But it might be easier. For example, it’s taken five years to find a suitable industrial unit, there’s a real lack of stock in Cornwall. Cornwall is the worst place in the world to set up a manufacturing business. You go up into the Midlands or near London and you get better business rate relief, the cost per square foot is much cheaper; employment - there’s a load more people who can work, the work mentality in Cornwall can sometimes be a struggle. I’m sure everyone who runs a business would say the same, to find managers, production managers, sales managers, financial people, has been really difficult.
The good thing about Cornwall is everyone is in it together
Do you do much overseas? Not at the moment, about 10% of what we do is overseas. We’ve never really pushed it because we realised it’s going to take too much from us to really come up with an export strategy. We know we do very well in America and we know Germany would be good. But it’s just the cost of acquisition, the cost of going after those things. We really want to exploit the UK first. Do you trade much on being from Cornwall? We’re nervous about that, as we want to be recognised as an international design company. We do, but it depends on what for. Cornwall has two identities, this pasties and
RAFFIELD
Myself and my wife went to Falmouth Art College. We love it down here and think it’s a great and inspiring place to live and work. The nature that surrounds us really does feed into what we want to achieve in terms of sustainability.
How many people work here now? About 36. The good thing about Cornwall is everyone is in it together. The Cornwall Manufacturing Group has been amazing for us, as have Neil and Lee from Seasalt and Lucy from Frugi. They’ve invited us to come in and have a look at how they do things, how they employ people. They’ve been really liberal with sharing stuff. What Cornwall lacks, it makes up for in other ways. But when we were looking for a new site, we
were just “oh my God, we would be better outsourcing everything”. But it’s not just about making money. And the people who have invested in this business are all from just five miles away, and they love it, have families. It all means so much to them. And it’s part of the pleasure of running a business, seeing people progress in jobs that mean something to them. How big is your new facility? We’ve taken two industrial units next to each other on Church View in Falmouth, about 8,000sq ft but with a seven -metre high ceiling so could go up to 16,000sq ft. So there’s capacity for us to grow. Here in Trevarno, working in shipping containers and sheds it’s just a nightmare because we work in solid wood. As soon as it’s wet outside, the wood ‘cups’, so if you’re halfway through making it, you could sometimes have to chuck away a product. For us it was crucial to go somewhere that was insulated. The Church View one was the first suitable one we saw in years.
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 13
TOM
RAFFIELD
Are you worried new modern premises will be a totally different vibe from your current ‘rustic’ home? It outweighs the problems we have here, right down to checking the met office every morning before we can make up 30 pallets. Everything here is a nightmare. It was not built for this sort of business. The new place backs onto Burdock Water. We won’t have the woodland, but we’ll be close to the beach. We wanted to make sure we had a place that was as nice as possible for the team. Here in Trevarno, you live next door to the business. So, will it be nice this just being home again? It’s going to be amazing. Me and my wife are so excited. Just being able to turn that generator off will be so good. I can’t think what we’re going to do with all the sheds, probably take most of them down. Also, when you’re working here, the first person starts at 6am, the last person goes at 7pm, and I’m obliged to always be here. I never stop working. What are the plans for the next few years? What’s your turnover? For this financial year we’re hoping for £2.3 million. Last year was
£1.6 million. The year before that was £1.5 million but then we weren’t putting much effort into growth, just thinking about moving premises and creating infrastructure. We’ve invested in a really good strategy so hopefully should now start to grow quite rapidly. Over the next three years we want to have a really intelligent product portfolio, working more closely with our key suppliers and probably in a year or two to really start to look at an export strategy. There are lots of exciting things happening. Bespoke is really exciting because we don’t know where it’s going to take us, but the opportunities are huge. We’re taking steam bent wood, curved wood, to architecture. There are huge capabilities and possibilities and architects are starting to realise that. Steam bending has been around for thousands of years. There are people all around the world who do it, but we’ve been more experimental and innovative in our approach. People have these machines and do steam bending but the machines govern what you can do. We’ve always developed our own tools. Architects are starting to understand how they can relate it to their building. Have you always had a love for wood? Not at all, I had always worked with metal. It was doing the product design course at the University of Falmouth and it was all about sustainability. I remember having a material project and saying to myself I’ve never worked with wood before, how the hell do you bend it? I went down to a boat yard in Gweek and just saw them get the wood out and bend it and I was absolutely blown away. They took this massive solid piece of oak and just with steam manipulated it. And it was from that day on, I thought it was incredible.
Are you a control freak at heart? I’m a contradiction I suppose. I’m a typical artist which can be really frustrating for people. I will leave them to do it but at the last minute I might have last minute worries about it and will come in and say no we’re not doing that, we have to change it. So, I’m a bit of both I suppose. Are you a worrier? Tremendously. But also very good at forgetting things and blocking them out. I’m a tremendous worrier but I’m always thinking about tomorrow. I’m also very optimistic - nothing can sink me, because I just feel like the world’s our oyster. I can’t help it! People are always saying ‘you can’t do that’, whereas I always say yes we can. And then we don’t do it, we nearly do! But for me that’s great, we move on. But it’s good fun.
My passion lies in the innovation
Steam bending is just so sustainable. You get the tree, apply steam, it’s done. You think about other things, t-shirts, even ceramics, the processes involved, but this is literally so raw and natural and you can create a refined finished product with such a raw material. So, I became obsessed with the process.
Do you find it easier to delegate now? I’m the first to delegate, as soon as anyone shows an
14 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
inkling of being good at a job, I will say can you do that, I need to do this. It’s when something goes wrong it’s a bit frustrating and then I become a bit of a control freak and take over everything again!
We just want to make sure we don’t stagnate now. The best thing would be in five years’ time if we could look back and say we were one of those Cornish businesses who put Cornwall on the map for innovation, growth and employment. And I always come back to this feeling if we lose our house, if we lose the business, if we lose everything, it’s not that bad. I’ll just go back to the shed making lights again. I have that skill. At least I’ll look back and say I tried my best. That’s life isn’t it? You take risks based on information and try and minimise that risk, but everything is a risk.
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ROUNDTABLE
DEBATE
Looking to the future Future Focus is all about stimulating early-stage innovation in businesses within Cornwall For the past three years, the Europeanfunded Future Focus programme has been combining inspiration, cutting-edge thinking and practical resources to help businesses across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly get ahead. Created by business support service Unlocking Potential (UP) in partnership with the University of Exeter – Future Focus has been taking business owners out of their comfort zone and getting them to think about how the world of business is changing. Whether 16 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
this involves making a change in products or services, business model, branding, structure or operations; breaking down barriers or doing something exciting and new; the Future Focus team have the people and practical resources to support businesses. Last month, Business Cornwall gathered five businesses around the table at Budock Vean Hotel to learn how Future Focus has helped equip them for success and how other businesses could benefit from a similar injection of inspiration.
ROUNDTABLE
brought to us? Confidence. It can be lonely out there for a business owner, expected to come up with a lot of answers. Someone to talk to and lean on has been useful. “The programme has also allowed us to progress in areas we would not normally see as priority. We might have winged it a bit if it wasn’t for the programme! “And we probably wouldn’t have given the Indian project as much attention if it wasn’t for the help of David Bone.”
SC NUTRITION Director, Steve Chapman, describes his company, SC Nutrition, as “a very traditional business”. Started seven years ago, SC Nutrition specialises in feed supplies and advice to the dairy farming sector. One of the biggest challenges his business faces is that it operates in a contracting market. And with fewer customers, innovation is more important than ever. And with much of the innovation in this industry coming from the USA, it recently benefitted when Future Focus was able to fund a fact-finding trip for one of its graduate employees, to the Renaissance Nutrition Conference in Pennsylvania and then on to Utah to work with world leading ruminant nutritionist, Dr Rachael Christensen. “We’re now looking at new software and computer programs on the back of that trip,” said Steve. One new market opportunity that SC Nutrition is exploring is India, which, has “huge potential” with more dairy farms than anywhere in the world. Through Future Focus, the company has been receiving one-to-one coaching from export expert David Bone, and has also been working with Exeter University on cow feeding and nutrition, and the market in southern India. David Bone has also been helping SC Nutrition to scale up the business, growing from just Steve and his wife two years ago, to a team of four. “What has Future Focus
The Future Focus programme has a bank of coaches it can tap into. “The beauty of having someone like David Bone on our books,” said Allyson, “is that he is an export specialist as well as a scaling up specialist. He was a brilliant fit for what Steve was looking at and an example of how the support we give can range from the very general to the specific.”
DEBATE
It’s very easy to say you haven’t got time for that, but you should find time. There is always something to gain
When at some of these events, she says it can be easy to feel a bit guilty sometimes, feeling you should be back in the office where the day-to-day is happening! As the UP team will tell you, Future Focus is all about what’s on the horizon for your business – a factor vital to the success of so many small businesses, as Lindsey explains: “When you get back into the office, you soon realise what you have gained makes it all worthwhile. Having been involved for so many years, I would advise businesses to take everything they can. Something positive will always come out of the experience.
BUZZ INTERACTIVE Newquay-based web development company Buzz Interactive has been involved with Future Focus and earlier UP programmes for the past ten years, ever since hiring its first member of staff, who, incidentally, is still with the company. Since 2009, Buzz has grown to a team of 12 and works on a number of high-profile projects for the likes of Barclays, Tesco Mobile and Transport for London. And director Lindsey Axten isn’t ashamed to admit that Buzz has taken full advantage of the Future Focus programmes offer, from events and labs, jobs, market research and analysis and a resource grant to further develop its Virtual Reality capabilities, including a grant for VR headsets and a graphics card for the development of apps. “We have received so much support from the project,” she told the panel. “I’ve been on so many Labs and courses. I was very lucky to have been on the Innocent Smoothies one where we went up to London to visit Innocent’s HQ Fruit Towers for the Brand and Culture Lab which was brilliant.”
“It’s very easy to say you haven’t got time for that, but you should find time. There is always something to gain.” A traditional challenge in Cornwall for companies in the IT & digital sectors is recruitment. And while organisations like Software Cornwall have really upped the game for tech companies, finding people of the right quality is still tough. “We have seen with many clients,” said Allyson, “that what limits their growth is attracting and recruiting quality people. One of the things we were able to do with Buzz was help them stand out in their recruitment. We were able to make a small recruitment video for them which made a massive difference.” BUSINESS CORNWALL | 17
ROUNDTABLE
DEBATE
ago and have implemented it throughout the business, creating massive efficiencies.” Being able to help niche businesses like Grinding Solutions has been key to the success of the Future Focus programme.
Tresillian-based international mineral processing consultancy and laboratory, Grinding Solutions, was founded in 2002. A highly-specialised business, it focuses on lab test work for a predominantly overseas client base.
With a growth plan in place, the company has expanded rapidly over the past three years, reporting 65% growth last year and 100% growth the year before that, expanding services and equipment.
“The events are designed to stimulate thinking and get you talking to other businesses,” said Allyson. “With innovation coaching, what we try to do with every business is come up with a plan that is specific to them and then bring in the specialist support we think is going to make a difference. Little obstacles and hurdles we can help a business get over.”
And while the events may not specifically help the technical side of such a niche business like Grinding Solutions, they have provided much wider benefits. “We have always taken something away from the events,” Felicity said, “networking and understanding how other people do business has been beneficial. “The mentoring we have received has been fantastic. We received some Agile training a few months
18 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
Jeremy says that by attending some of the Future Focus events and labs, he has been able to meet other people, not necessarily doing the same thing, but going through the same pains and challenges. People and businesses he probably wouldn’t have otherwise have come across. “It has helped provide a helicopter view of what we’re doing and where we are going,” he said. “Many businesses don’t have time to talk to others that are in the same situation as them,” said Allyson. “We forget these guys are trying to motivate their teams, but who motivates the motivators? A lot of these things are about energising. It’s about being able to have those conversations you’re having in your head, out loud with an expert.”
Director, Felicity Wilshaw, explained: “We’ve had a growth plan in place for past three years and the support of jobs, being able to bring people in while planning for growth, has been really helpful. It has also helped our cashflow, which is always an issue for small businesses.” In addition to its help with graduate placements, Grinding Solutions has regularly attended Future Focus events and also tapped into its innovation coaching.
While Jeremy says it is difficult to know exactly where Touchbyte would be today without Future Focus, he is in no doubt that the impact has been significant. “It has meant we have done things we maybe wouldn’t have done,” he said. “The whole marketing piece, we probably wouldn’t have done as well as we have. Future Focus has helped us grow the visibility of the company so much out there. The likes of Microsoft and IBM have approached us, which wouldn’t have happened had we not been so visible.”
GRINDING SOLUTIONS
The company took on its first employee through UP and with the team now having expanded to 19, still accesses that service today.
“He is now part of the team and comes in one day a week to help us. What started looking at the brand and where we were going, is now embedded into what we’re doing in the future. It has been massively valuable.”
TOUCHBYTE Looking at points of friction in our daily lives and trying to eradicate them using face recognition technology, is the unique selling point behind Jeremy Sneller’s business - Touchbyte. For the past five years, Touchbyte has been on a real journey innovating this technology, building applications for specific niche markets such as retail, transport, hotels etc. It, too, has benefitted from the graduate recruitment help with supported jobs for a software engineer and junior software engineer. Reflecting on some of the highlights he has received from Future Focus, Jeremy said: “The innovation coaching we received from Angelo Spencer-Smith really impacted us.
Jeremy added: “As leader of a team, everyone is looking to you. Yes, you can share things, but they’re looking to you to make a decision and at the end of the day if you can make that decision intelligently having spoken to other people who have had similar problems, to me that’s massively beneficial.”
FOCUS EVENT: DEBATE ROUNDTABLE
DIGITAL MINDSET help my company grow. So, from four years ago, in my shed, it changed everything.”
SOLVE WEB MEDIA
The impact that the Future Focus programme has had on web design and SEO business, Solve Web Media, has, according to founder and director, Lawrence Harmer, been “huge”.
So, from four years ago, in my shed, it changed everything
Since then Lawrence has attended a number of Future Focus events, which have again helped shape the business to what it is today. He particularly highlights a Lab Trip for creative industries to the International Business Festival in Liverpool last year.
“That was one of the most inspirational trips I’ve been on,” he said. “That one trip shaped our business quite a lot.”
few chemicals they used. It completely changes that business, giving them a USP.”
Solve Web Media is part of a growing number of businesses paying increased attention to CSR.
“Cornwall is often criticised for its lack of ambition,” said programme director Allyson Glover, “but it’s not lack of ambition. There are many, many business owners who are uncomfortable with the image of business today being all about profit. Now, more than ever before, business is so much more than profit alone, and business owners can absolutely tap into that. Some of the work I love most is enabling people to tap into their inner self and create a business they want to create.”
WEDNESDAY 9TH OCTOBER 2019
Just four years ago Lawrence was working on his own out of the garden shed, and now employs a team of eight.
Lawrence met Matt Hocking from Leap Media and was inspired to pursue the BCorp social and environmental recognition.
“Four years ago,” he said, “I had so much demand, I know it’s really bad, but I turned my website off! I couldn’t cope.
Consequently, Solve has adopted a number of sustainable initiatives. Its offices at Winnard’s Perch are solar powered, it offers client hosting on 100% renewable powered servers, and free websites for good causes.
THE EDEN PROJECT, ST AUSTELL 9:00AM - 5:00PM
“David Bone (one of the Future Focus Innovation Coaches) told me if I increase my prices by 50%, even if I lost a third of all my customers, then I’d have more time and more money! Turns out I didn’t lose one customer. But as a result my turnover increased, which meant I could employ my first person and
PEACHY
Come to Eden on October Another business to have been positively 9th where our Digital Mindset event impacted Future Focus will bring you the latest in by digital programme is Falmouththinking to not onlybased keeppeach-infused you beer ‘ahead of the curve’ – but to show brand, Jubel. you what lies beyond it. “The knowledge placements have had this Unlocking Potential,
“We are educating our clients as well,” said Lawrence. “The other day we had a cleaning company from London see us for a website, after a quick chat we changed them to an eco-cleaning company just by changing a
an immense impact on our business,” enthuses co-founder Jesse Wilson, “and helped to open up new sales opportunities with pub groups such as Fullers and we wouldn’t have been able to access this top notch consultancy without support from the programme.” One particular example the help Jubel received was a ‘peach taster’ event Future Focus Future facilitated. biggest Focus event of the year
Organised by will be well worth investing a full day of your time. Influential, globally-sought-after speakers will bend minds, stimulate thinking and challenge assumptions about our digital future. Unlocking Potential has its biggest Future Focus event yet, Digital Mindset, taking place at The Eden Project on October 9. This all-day event will give businesses in Cornwall the chance to keep up with, and stay ahead of, the latest in digital thinking.
BOOK YOUR PLACE
JOIN US AT OUR BIGGEST EVENT OF “Very early on we felt like we needed to 2019on our beer do some brew development
to improve it but the costs were a bit of a barrier,” says Jessie. “Future Focus helped us access some brilliant brewing expertise to take our tipple to the next level and it has since won the UK’s Best Fruit Beer in the World Beer Awards which is an awesome accolade.”
Find out more:
futurefocus@unlocking-potential.co.uk Email futurefocus@unlocking-potential.co.uk
or call 0845 600 3660
or Call 0845 600 3660.
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 19
NEXT MONTH
Christmas -is-a-coming! The October issue of Business Cornwall magazine will feature our annual office party guide.
If you would like to promote your seasonal offering, contact caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk or morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk now!
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ENVIRONMENT &
SUSTAINABILITY
With the Government setting ambitious targets for the country to become carbon neutral, how can your business help?
final
Climate breakdown and ecological emergency is now discussed more urgently and more frequently since the IPCC report released last year stated that in order to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees, action must be taken across all sectors. With less than 12 years to take action, ambassadors such as Sir David Attenborough and Leonardo DiCaprio have raised awareness tenfold and direct action from Greta Thunberg, Youth Strike 4 Climate and Extinction Rebellion has motivated UK councils and governments in England, Scotland and Wales to declare a state of climate emergency. Cornwall Council recently released an action plan which outlines aims for the county to reach carbon neutrality by 2030. The plan will drive forward ambitious targets and sets out commitments for Cornwall Council to make necessary changes that prioritise climate emergency measures in key decision-making processes within the public sector. The report also acknowledges that ‘combating climate change needs system-wide change that involves communities, business, individuals
and stakeholders across all sectors of the economy’. So how can your business lead the way in reaching these goals for Cornwall? Cornwall New Energy (CNE) technical delivery manager, Amanda Forman, explains: “Making small changes across many businesses can have an immediate impact on reducing energy consumption and consequently greenhouse gas emissions. “Changing working patterns to consider how energy is used and consumed on site sets forward the motion of change which encourages the sustainability agenda to grow and bigger commitments to be obtained next year.
the options for reduction and generation of renewable and low carbon energy across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
“However, there is not one solution that fits all,” adds Amanda, “rather a selection of solutions that must be Combating climate applied and specified correctly, driven by change needs system suitability not subsidy.
wide change that involves communities, business, individuals and stakeholders across all sectors of the economy
“As a project, CNE has offered an excellent opportunity to assess the need for multi vector energy systems, which means looking at all
“Electrification of the heat network is widely discussed; to achieve this, the national grid will require massive infrastructure upgrade. Multi vector solutions will mean consideration of methods to utilise the existing gas network to provide a low carbon gas supply network. It is also imperative to find solutions for off-gas areas and ensure that fuel poverty is addressed by creating affordable and accessible energy options.” BUSINESS CORNWALL | 21
ENVIRONMENT
& SUSTAINABILITY
will be seminars to attend on solar PV for business, affordable low carbon buildings, and renewable energy systems. The conference will run informative sessions showcasing work from Community Energy Plus, BRE, University of Exeter, and Community Works. PRP, the lead contractor for the project, has considered some top tips for businesses to reduce their carbon footprint in ten easy steps which will be available on the day. These tips include effective and simple carbon and financial savings such as how to: • Monitor electricity consumption to run the business more efficiently - understanding how electricity and gas is used and consumed within a business can save up to 20% of energy spend.
The CNE Project began in 2017 with the aim of supporting small and medium sized Cornish businesses in the move to adopt low carbon technologies and invest in renewable energy. The aim of the project is to help develop innovation, set up research collaborations and provide business support through making recommendations on suitable investments. Led by PRP Architects LLP, the project is able to influence building design and integrate climate mitigation and efficiency measures into architectural design.
Building fabric performance, minimising heat loss, and creating positive air flows for building health all contribute to low carbon buildings and need to be considered at an early stage to ensure their success. PRP is currently taking a leading role in sustainable design within some of Cornwall’s major developments, including the master plan for Truro’s redevelopment of Pydar Street. On October 2, CNE will showcase some of its work at the Annual Conference and Trade Fair 2019 at St Austell Conference Centre. There
• Switch lighting to LED. Calculations show the energy savings can produce a payback on investment of less than 2 years* • Use solar PV if a suitable space is available to offset daytime electricity costs. Solar generates electricity most effectively in the summer, during the day when most businesses are fully operational. When all the electricity is used on site the savings are clearly seen through reduced bills. • Reduce commuter fuel by driving less. Skype and video conferencing can be an effective replacement.
OPERATION FAT BERG Earlier this year, Clear-flow Ltd successfully completed the highly publicised ‘Fat Berg’ project in Sidmouth. The specialist drainage company, whose head office is near Redruth, was working on behalf of its client, South West Water The mission was to remove two massive deposits (the largest seen in the South West Water area) of fat, grit and unflushable material such as wipes that had built up in the sewers beneath the Ham in Sidmouth. This was a complex operation involving cordoning off the highly visible site right on the sea front so that work could safely proceed whilst still allowing public access to the local amenities. After carefully completing the appropriate risk assessments and method statements the Clear-flow team of six highly-trained individuals were then able to effect confined space entry into the sewer network wearing full breathing apparatus and dry suits as a precaution against harmful gases and the sewerage flows.
22 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
Their job was to break up the ‘fat bergs’ with a mixture of high-pressure water jets and manual labour prior to the waste being physically sucked to the surface and removed by one of Clear-flow’s ‘deep lift’ tankers. Due to the sheer volume of the ‘fat bergs’ this process took a number of weeks. The waste was ultimately taken to a suitably licensed South West Water disposal site prior to being correctly processed and disposed of.
of its operation and talk to businesses in Cornwall (and the whole of the south west) about its transparent, compliant and value for money approach. The ‘Fat Berg’ experience has also focussed minds and Clear-flow has been exploring ways of grease management where they can assist, particularly the catering industry, in helping the environment by restricting the flow of fats into the drainage system.
Clear-flow has advised that the work was completed safely, on time and within budget. The team have been nominated for a South West Water award due to the high level of professionalism displayed throughout the project life.
For further information and details of the new product offering that this has led to, please contact Clear-flow’s commercial manager - Mark Marriott mmarriott@clearflowltd.com
The company offers a full range of drainage services and is keen to continue the growth
ENVIRONMENT &
• Assess the requirement for heating. This is a huge challenge as heating often represents a high percentage of overall energy consumption when a business has high demand for space heating and hot water. There are solutions available that will facilitate the move away from oil and more efficiently use gas. As a first step, buildings should focus on fabric energy efficiency, then consider whether a heat pump system, solar thermal or combined heat and power (CHP) might be relevant. One of the main problems the project has found with delivery of solutions is access to capital. Many small businesses have the intention to make sustainable investments but when it comes to changing their infrastructure, the costs associated with it can become financially difficult to deliver. The technical feasibility of any project needs to be carefully delivered as multiple options can be confusing. CNE delivery manager, Alex Nicholas, explains: “Some businesses may wish to go further with a recognisable investment for energy reduction, for example ground source heating can be an excellent and efficient way to move away from oil and gas based systems and is very well suited to new build and retrofit building projects, but it requires a commitment to building efficiency and significant upfront investment.
“For this type of investment there are still subsidies available through the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).” Other recommendations made by CNE are more affordable and easier to obtain significant results, these include energy monitoring, switching to LED lighting and changing patterns of behaviour in the workplace. These actions can be adopted very early on in any business model and really only take a basic level of commitment and understanding of the issue. Alex says CNE aims to deliver a programme of work which can cover small businesses and start-ups which don’t have access to capital, as well as the more established enterprises that do. The recommendations and support available through CNE focus on providing a range of solutions, including access to events and seminars to provide objective advice and guidance on how technologies work and the suitability to specific situations. The CNE Annual Conference and Trade Fair in October will welcome Steve Jermy as the key note speaker on the importance of adopting low carbon strategy within a business, and access to bespoke consultancy through all of the project partners.
TIME TO GIVE BACK A team of 16 staff members drawn from each of the firm’s seven offices are taking part in Bishop Fleming’s Bright Futures initiative this year. The group recently launched a campaign called ‘BF Giving Back – A brighter future starts today’ with the aim of minimizing and eliminating the use of plastic across the business.
SUSTAINABILITY
The CNE project draws to a close in November this year, up until then you can access the project by emailing a.forman@prp-co.uk
There is not one solution that fits all, rather a selection of solutions that must be applied and specified correctly, driven by suitability not subsidy Amanda Forman, Technical Delivery Manager, PRP
Bishop Fleming is celebrating its centenary year and to help mark the significant milestone, the firm has launched an initiative to ‘give back’
In six months, the business has removed the use of over six commonly used singleuse plastic items, such as carrier bags, bubble wrap, single-use coffee cups, and plastic straws, plates and cutlery. The environmental initiative incorporates several elements, and in July the firm was accredited by Surfers Against Sewage as a ‘Plastic Free Champion’. They are immensely proud of this achievement as sustainability is a critical part of the firm’s core values, which includes reducing its impact on the environment. An Environmental Management System (EMS) is used across the firm to measure the consumption of environmental indicators. The latest statistics show that since 2012 electricity and gas usage are down by 2.6% per employee, the average business miles per £,000 income is down 11.9% and annual paper consumption is down just under 37%.
Bishop Fleming’s local Bright Futures representative in their Truro office is audit senior, Kristina Pogonowska. She said: “Amongst other environmental initiatives, we decided that one way of actually “giving back” was to essentially “take away” – in this case, plastic. Raising further awareness of plastic pollution has led to many of my colleagues being shocked by just how many singleuse plastic items surround us daily. Unfortunately, it is impractical to expect to cut out all plastics from your life, but we must remember that no one person can change the world, it’s only by coming together that our individual small changes can have a big impact.”
www.bishopfleming.co.uk BUSINESS CORNWALL | 23
ENVIRONMENT
& SUSTAINABILITY
THE PLASTIC DEBATE Plastic pollution has become a major global disaster and as a result of our increased awareness of the crisis, we strive to reduce, reuse and of course recycle. We check if our plastic can be recycled, we wash it, carefully dispose of it... and that’s it, we’ve done our bit for the planet. Or have we, asks Simon Almond, MD at waste management company DCW
The West has relied on China since recycling became popular, which in the case of the UK has only been about 30 years. For China, UK investment simply wasn’t worthwhile and many early UK pioneers failed as they couldn’t compete with China. Have you ever wondered where these plastics are sent for recycling, now that China (the world’s largest plastic processor) has closed its doors? We all just assume that the recycling of our plastic is being taken care of, and in some cases it is, but the inconvenient truth is that mainly, it isn’t. When it was apparent that China was closing for business, the big UK recycling companies sent their delegates to the Far East to establish new markets including India, Malaysia and Vietnam. These countries have little or no environmental legislation in place to deal with substandard plastic and anything rejected has simply ended up in rivers, burnt in the open or landfilled. We are all amazed by how much plastic is in our seas and we assume it’s being dropped from ships or left behind from trips to the beach, and while of course this contributes to the problem, the bulk of the plastic is waste that has been exported to the East and then dumped in rivers.
24 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
The major problem on the financial side is there are no laws to force manufacturers to use a minimum percentage of recycled polymer, and cheap oil means plastic is produced in millions of tonnes a year. Our industry is lobbying government on plastic tax and in 2022 a 30% plastic tax comes in to force, but it’s simply a tax that will be passed on and will force manufacturers to use lower grades of polymer that cannot be recycled, effectively increasing the problem - not helping it. We need any plastic produced in the UK or imported into the UK and Europe to be made from 50% recycled polymer and reduce polymer types to only 10 or less with no cross polymers. This would within 5 years create a strong industry in the UK where we are dealing with our own waste ourselves. We need to stop dumping our problem on another country. We can’t continue to expose those living in developing countries to toxic fumes from the burning of plastic waste.
What can you do to help? Ask your council where your plastic goes and ask them to prove it from door to door and the final destination. If they can’t or won’t answer you, keep on asking. Think about how you shop and reduce your plastic waste. Leave the packaging in the shop or change shops - they’ll soon get the message. At DCW, our Zero to Landfill solution ensures no waste goes to landfill. We remain the only Zero to Landfill operator in the region to process waste for recycling, rather than sending it all to Energy from Waste plants for incineration. Zero to Landfill saves resources and energy, reduces our region’s carbon footprint, and promotes a sustainable business community. If you’d like to learn more about how we manage and recycle waste at DCW or how we can help your business to become greener, head to our website www.dcw.co.uk.
Online Job adverts ONLY Nestled on a farm in North Cornwall, St. Eval use traditional methods to craft high quality candles by hand, perfecting the art and science for over 25 years. Our unique pots, wax blends and fragrances are all inspired by nature and our beautiful Cornish countryside.
+VAT To book, contact: morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk
businesscornwall.co.uk @biz_cornwall
Using only finest ingredients and materials from renewable sources, we are proudly able to produce our own sustainable energy via wind, solar and biomass; helping to reduce our carbon footprint and impact on the environment. In 2011, we erected the UK’s quietest Wind Turbine which, alongside solar panels and biomass boiler, enables us to produce enough energy to power the entire workshop. With a keen focus on eliminating plastics throughout our packaging, we are delighted to introduce new cardboard boxes for our dinner candle gift packs, fragranced church candles and soap and lotion boxes launching this Autumn – removing plastic from these ranges completely. Alongside this, we are redesigning our pot top discs on recyclable card. Our practises and candle collections are continually evolving to keep with our promise to “tread softly on the earth”, with sustainability at the forefront of our focus. www.st-eval.com 01841 540 850 | @stevalcandles
/businesscornwall The art of beautiful candles.
St Eval Candle Company, Engollan, St Eval, Cornwall PL27 7UL
Cornwall New Energy 2019 Annual Conference 2 October 2019 at the St Austell Conference Centre • Keynote speaker; Steve Jermy, LEP board member • Trade Show featuring renewable innovations • Community Housing seminar • Workshops on electric vehicle charging & solar PV for business use
To make your booking please find our listing at eventbrite
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 25
ENVIRONMENT
& SUSTAINABILITY AUDI e-tron This sporty, fully electric SUV has the next generation of quattro all-wheel drive, powered by two electric motors, which generate 300kW of power and up to 660Nm of torque. It’s flexible charging options mean customers can enjoy fully electric driving without compromise.
Public perception of Electric Cars (EVs) has changed with greater momentum than ever before. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), around 500 plug in cars per month were registered in 2014, whereas last year there were over ten times that amount. One of the greatest factors putting people off switching is still range anxiety, as if purchasing an EV will tether you, restricting your flexibility and falling short of your journey needs. However with some EVs now capable of 300 miles on a single charge, you have to ask yourself how many journeys you do over this, and even then, there’s more and more public charging points and you just need to plan your journey with a little more rigour. And if you’re still not sold, then by 2040 you’re going to have to be if the Government sticks to plans to ban sales of petrol and diesel cars by this point. With the EV and Hybrid market growing on a daily basis there are many models to choose, here are a number of our favourites:
With low BIK rates for business users this car is certainly grabbing attention. Contact Stephen Humphreys, the local business development manager, to arrange a test drive and obtain contract hire figures email stephen.humphreys@truroaudi.co.uk Range: 237 Local dealer: Truro Audi, Tresillian, TR2 4BA 01872 520801
Electric Car
guide
RANGE ROVER SPORT PHEV
JAGUAR I-PACE The Jaguar I-Pace is an all electric perfomance SUV that has won many coveted awards including: World Car of the Year 2019, European Car of the Year 2019, World Car Design of the Year 2019 and may more. For over eighty years, Jaguar has created cars that excite the senses. Electric power doesn’t change this, it only produces more opportunities for creating the dramatic performance they are renowned for. Range: 292 Local dealer: Carrs Jaguar, Scorrier, 01872 305983. They currently have SE specification demonstrator available to purchase for £64,999
The Range Rover Sports sporty character and power are now complimented with greater efficiencies, such as, lower Co2 emission and better fuel economy all thanks to Land Rovers huge advances in hybrid technology. Compared to a conventional petrol engine, the PHEV P400e gives you an additional boost in performance when you need it most, perfect harmony between combustion engine and electric motor means you will enjoy a combined power output of 404hp. Range: In hybrid mode it will achieve a claimed real-world figure of 86.9-75.3 mpg and has a range of up to 26 miles on electric only. Local dealer: Carrs Land Rover, Scorrier, 01872 305983. They currently have HSE specification 400e PHEV demonstrator available to test drive
RENAULT ZOE (EV) The Renault Zoe is “What Car” EV winner 2019 for an Electric Car under £30,000. It looks like a car, robust and a great build quality. Once test driven you will fall in love with this car. Range: Likely to be between 126 miles (winter conditions) and 186 miles in temperate conditions (claimed). Cost: From £18240 (excludes mandatory battery hire) Local dealer: Dales Renault Scorrier, 01209 821133 and Summercourt, 01872 511600 www.dalescornwall.co.uk 26 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
FUTURE FOCUS EVENT:
DIGITAL MINDSET
WEDNESDAY 9TH OCTOBER 2019
THE EDEN PROJECT, ST AUSTELL 9:00AM - 5:00PM JOIN US AT OUR BIGGEST EVENT OF 2019
Come to Eden on October 9th where our Digital Mindset event will bring you the latest in digital thinking to not only keep you ‘ahead of the curve’ – but to show you what lies beyond it. Organised by Unlocking Potential, this biggest Future Focus event of the year will be well worth investing a full day of your time. Influential, globally-sought-after speakers will bend minds, stimulate thinking and challenge assumptions about our digital future.
BOOK YOUR PLACE
futurefocus@unlocking-potential.co.uk
or call 0845 600 3660
EDUCATION
& TRAINING
The old cliché that a business is only as good as its staff has never been truer. Over the next six pages we take a look at how Cornwall’s workforce of today – and tomorrow – is helping equip Cornish businesses for the challenges ahead
train A new campaign was launched this year to promote the benefits of apprenticeships to businesses across Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly. Cornwall Apprenticeships includes a new website, real time listings of apprentice vacancies, case studies and free advice and support to help small businesses discover how apprenticeships can boost skills and business performance. It is a partnership between Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Skills Hub, Cornwall Council’s Economic Growth Service, and the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). An apprenticeship is a real job that combines working with studying to gain skills, knowledge and experience in a specific role. There are various levels of apprenticeship available, right up to degree and masters level. cornwallapprenticeships.com includes a wealth of information, advice and support for employers and individuals, including success stories from local businesses already working with apprentices. The employer section includes information on how to hire an apprentice, costings, a comprehensive employers’ toolkit and the benefits to their business, as well as how to get further impartial support from the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Skills Hub. The individuals’ section details how to find an apprenticeship and the benefits of becoming an apprentice. Cathie Kessell, employment and apprenticeship officer at the Cornwall Council and 28 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership, says: “Apprenticeships have changed a lot in recent years and we want to encourage small businesses to consider the apprenticeship route especially when 95% of training costs are met by the Government in most cases. “Apprentices don’t have to be school leavers, they can be any age post 16 and they can be new or existing employees. It’s a really exciting option for both apprentice and employer.” Paul Massey, chair of the Employment and Skills board for the LEP, says: “Hiring an apprentice is an effective way for any Several Cornish businesses have been organisation to grow talent and develop a supporting the campaign and talking about motivated, skilled and qualified workforce. their positive experiences. We need to ensure Laura Whyte, director of Truroour businesses have based accountancy firm Whyfield, the skills they need to 74% of businesses says: “Our apprentices are of real prosper and grow, and value to our business. By the time said apprentices apprenticeships are a apprentices are fully qualified, great way of doing this.” tend to be more loyal they know the business inside There a wide range of and out, and are loyal to the members of staff, reasons to consider going company.” when compared to down the apprenticeship Lorraine Collins, HR manager route when looking to hire non apprentices at Pool-based construction new staff. Employing an company RG Kellow, comments: apprentice can be highly “There are definite benefits for cost-effective way to our business, as well as for the increase your workforce apprentices. We want to grow our business with studies showing that over 80% of and grow top-class people with it. Apprentices businesses that employed apprentices found help us do that. We’ve had people that have their productivity had increased as a result. worked in carpentry, for example, for years Taking an apprentice can help improve the and who want to pass down their skills. range of skills you have within your business, Apprentices want to learn.” it can also inject some youthful talent that And Christopher Weavill, COO and co-founder can add a new dimension to your workplace, of Truro-based technology company Hertzian, bringing with it a fresh perspective and adds: “Apprentices are enthusiastic, willing to new ideas. This in turn can excite existing learn and can be of great value. Employers employees and spark a boost in overall have the opportunity to create the perfectly business productivity. trained member of staff for their business. By And according to a survey, 74% of utilising apprenticeships, a business can have businesses said apprentices tend to be more an evergreen pool of talent – with members loyal members of staff, when compared to of staff that upskill each other tailored for the non apprentices. company’s needs.”
Business training solutions With Truro & Penwith College your trusted training partner
Consultancy services, professional qualifications, Apprenticeships and bespoke training packages.
Get in touch to discuss your requirements. t: 01872 242711 e: business@truro-penwith.ac.uk w: truro-penwith.ac.uk/business
Work Smarter Staff development has the power to boost efficiency and make your people shine. We can help you nuture your talent and make your business thrive.
Part of our company growth plan is building our quality management systems and achieving ISO 9001. The Skills Hub has helped me hone my skills by taking courses to understand the process and how to use different application platforms to make sure the company runs more smoothly.
FREE
skills review
01209 708660 ciosskillshub.com
Lucie Hackney Office manager, Kernow Controls
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 29
EDUCATION
& TRAINING
DRIVING GENDER EQUALITY Part-funded leadership training for women in business across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
AVAILABLE COURSES • The Women Team Leads’ Toolkit, Level 2 ILM Award, this two-day course is scheduled frequently across the year starting November 27 in St Austell, only £60 with funding per delegate - normal price £190. • Women Moving into Leadership, Level 3 CMI Award, this four-day course is scheduled frequently across the year starting January 10 in St Ives, only £150 with funding per delegate - normal price £750. • Developing Women Leaders, Level 4 CMI Award, this five-and-ahalf-day course including three days residential workshops is scheduled frequently across the year, starting on the November 7 in Truro or March 31 in Bodmin, only £595 with funding per delegate – normal price £2,500. • Leading Women - Senior Leaders Development Programme, Level 5 CMI Award, this three-day residential workshop is scheduled frequently across the year, starting February 12 in Truro, only £695 with funding per delegate – normal price £3,500. Each day runs from 9.30am (9.00am coffee) to 4.30pm, refreshments and lunch provided. The Residential workshops commence at 9.30am on day one and end at 4.30pm on day three, Single accommodation and all meals and refreshments included.
These courses aim to increase skills and help address the gender employment and wage gap for women in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
30 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
High performing, balanced leadership teams are said to outperform the competition; however male managers are 40% more likely to be promoted than female managers, according to the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). CMI state that women make up 73% of junior managers with only 32% making it to director level. To help women develop their skills and unlock their potential, a new suite of ESF part-funded leadership courses delivered by women for women has been designed by CCB Training, as part of the Developing Leaders Project. The project aims to increase the skill levels of employed women to encourage progression in employment and help address the gender employment and wage gap in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. “These exciting courses will not only develop skills for women,” comments Sally McAuley, head of business and professional at CCB Training, “they will develop confidence and help women to map out their careers.” The suite of leadership courses for women are accredited from Level 2 to Level 5 by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) or CMI. All courses are 80% funded subject to criteria. “These courses offer women the opportunity to take time out of the workplace to reflect on their own practice,” Sally adds.
“They provide a wide range of learning activities according to the particular course including workshops, individual and group activities, leadership coaching and mentoring, experiential learning opportunities, industry expert speakers, personal psychometric profiling and health and wellbeing activities. “All courses will be delivered in various locations across the breadth of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, enabling women from all sectors to take advantage of this opportunity.” CCB Training, part of the Cornwall College Group (TCCG), is the project lead and along with its delivery partners will receive up to £1.5 million of funding from the European Social Fund (ESF) as part of the 2014-2020 European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme in England. To find out more about CCB Training’s leadership courses call 0800 731 7594, email hello@ccbtraining.co.uk or visit www.ccbtraining.co.uk
SKILLED-UP FOR BUSINESS GROWTH Kernow Controls develops building management and smoke control systems. It is a successful local business achieving significant growth and is currently installing smoke extraction systems for Cross Rail in London. It’s a big contract for a small company – just five employees with more contractors. Office manager Lucie Hackney is tasked with ensuring the company has all its ducks in a row, including admin, finance, HR and marketing. She says it’s about developing a strong base and would agree that training plays a huge role in preparing for business growth. While searching for the right support, she was referred to the Skills Hub. Initially she was mostly looking for health and safety training for employees and had
not thought about her own skills needs. But after an informal chat with Clair, the Skills Hub representative, she realised that project management and marketing courses would help her work more confidently. “Part of our company growth plan is building our quality management systems and achieving ISO 9001,” she says. “The Skills Hub has helped me hone my skills by taking courses to understand the process and how to use different application platforms to make sure the company runs more smoothly. Through my new marketing skills, I’m now using new platforms I would have never known about before.” She’s thankful for her experience with the Skills Hub. “It’s made finding training much easier.
I wouldn’t have known about training organisations like the Cornwall Marine Network and Transform, or where to get courses like first aid training. If I hadn’t spoken to Clair at the Skills Hub, I would have spent more hours searching the Internet. “Every business should get a skills review. There’s always a skills gap in your business, even if you can’t see it for yourself. Someone from the outside can see your potential for growth.” The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Skills Hub offers a free training support service to local businesses from all sectors and sizes. Book a free Skills Review today – hello@ciosskillshub.com or 01209 708 660
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.
Founded in 1880, Truro School is Cornwall’s leading independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3 - 18. NURSERY | PREP | SENIOR | SIXTH FORM
Upcoming Open Events:
www.truroschool.com
Sixth Form
24 September 2019
Senior
5 October 2019
Nursery
23 November 2019
Prep & Nursery
7 March 2020
Guided tours are available throughout the year. Please visit our website for more information. BUSINESS CORNWALL | 31
EDUCATION
& TRAINING
Can you afford to ignore If that isn’t enough to interest you, we’ve got five further reasons why your business can’t afford to ignore apprenticeships:
Since 2015, Truro and Penwith College has seen apprentice numbers soar from 327 to 660 and over 1.5 million apprentices have entered businesses across the UK.
1 Develop the skilled workforce you need and improve productivity:
The latest apprenticeship standards have been designed with employers to focus on the skills needed in the workplace, and the range of programmes is continually growing to include areas such as; accountancy, art, construction, engineering, science, hospitality, nursing associate, motor vehicle and digital marketing to name a few.
HOW TO EMPLOY AN APPRENTICE
Our team of experienced and supportive Business Development Advisors work with employers across Cornwall. We are on-hand to help you understand Apprenticeship training and to work with you to assess if Apprenticeships can really benefit your business. We’re always happy to come out and offer help and provide integral advice, contact the team to arrange an appointment: Phone: 01872 242711 Email: Apprenticeships@truro-penwith.ac.uk 32 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
Apprenticeships allow employers to develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce. Over 86% of employers say apprenticeships develop skills needed in their organisation and nearly 78% say apprenticeships increase productivity (National Apprenticeship Service*). 2 Grow your workforce and succession plan: 90% of apprentices stay with their employer after completing (National Apprenticeship Service*), while 54% of Cornish employers have apprentices they believe will be their leaders and managers of the future (research commissioned by the CIOS Skills Hub**).
the Government picking up the bill for the remaining 95% as part of a £695 million scheme. This means, for example, that a Cornish business employing an engineering technician apprentice now saves £1,300 off the cost of the apprenticeship training. In addition to this, businesses with 49 or less employees do not pay for training if their apprentice is aged 16-18 and all businesses receive £1k when they employ an apprentice in the same age bracket.
CASE STUDY
WATSON-MARLOW FLUID TECHNOLOGY GROUP
3 Your solution for recruitment and to upskill: Apprentices are suitable for anyone over the age of 16, there is no upper age limit! Over half of Cornish employers have identified areas of their business that are difficult to recruit for (research commissioned by the CIOS Skills Hub**). Apprenticeships can help you fill skills gaps in your organisation and add capacity. Truro and Penwith College’s employers often add capacity with business administration apprentices or recruit marketing apprentices with fresh ideas to run their social media for example. Apprenticeships are also the perfect solution to train current members of staff for a new role or new levels of responsibility. 4 A diverse range of programme areas: Truro and Penwith College offers apprenticeships in over 40 areas to cover a wide range of business functions and sectors, and is adding new programmes all of the time. Visit www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/ apprenticeshiptraining to find out more. 5 Funding is available and training costs have been halved! SMEs with a wage bill under £3 million had their Apprenticeship training costs halved from 10% to 5% in April 2019, with
Apprenticeship programmes: • Engineering Technician • Maintenance and Operations Technician • Production Engineer • Welding • Business Administration • Accounting Technician Darren Etherington, production director at Watson-Marlow, says: “We have been working with Truro and Penwith College for a number of years and have seen many high quality employees progress through apprenticeships in machinist manufacturing, mechanical maintenance and welding and fabrication. These programmes have given us the opportunity to produce high quality engineers capable of producing some of the finest technical components in our industry.”
EDUCATION &
CASE STUDY
CORNWALL COUNCIL
Apprenticeships are a vital part of our workforce and provide great pathways to successful careers. Our apprentices are supported to gain nationally recognised qualifications, learn relevant skills and gain confidence, while earning a good wage
TRAINING
CASE STUDY
RICK STEIN GROUP
Apprenticeship programmes: • Commis Chef • Chef de Partie • Hospitality Team Member • Hospitality Supervisor
CASE STUDY Apprenticeship programmes:
PAUL AINSWORTH
• Adult Care Worker • Lead Adult Care Worker • Business Administration • Digital Marketing • Software Developer • Assistant Accountant • Professional Accounting Technician • Operational Fire Fighter • Community Safety Advisor • Team Leader / Supervisor Debbie Cornelius, talent and development advisor at Cornwall Council, said: “Apprenticeships are a vital part of our workforce and provide great pathways to successful careers. Our apprentices are supported to gain nationally recognised qualifications, learn relevant skills and gain confidence, while earning a good wage. Ethan is just one of many excellent examples of how we develop our apprentices in the hope that they’ll stay with us afterward – and it’s working, as around eight out of ten apprentices do stay with the Council. “We now offer amazing apprenticeships from Level 2 right up to Level 7 in nearly 50 different subjects, so the opportunities are truly endless! We’ll be releasing our next cohort of vacancies in October for people to start in January 2020 and will be looking for talented and ambitious people of all ages to join us!
Apprenticeship programmes: • Commis Chef • Hospitality Team Member Paul Ainsworth comments: “I am so thrilled to be working with Truro and Penwith College through their apprenticeship programmes across our businesses. It is so important to me to help the community here in Cornwall and the fact that I can give opportunities to the younger generation is a real honour. “I also see this as a great opportunity for Cornwall, to ensure they stay on the map as one of the best places for food in the UK for many years to come, by shaping some of the best grass-roots talent. I hope to teach apprentices about the importance of a great work ethic and I believe that our business will help grow their confidence, creativity and skills. I am confident that the opportunities and teaching that we will give to the apprentices will set a solid foundation for their future careers.”
• Hospitality Manager Rick Stein says: “There is no substitute for learning whilst working as you quickly develop the skills you need to progress in this fast-paced industry. We’re proud to support Apprenticeships and work with those who are passionate about great food and making people smile.” Daubroy Delahunty, learning and development manager, adds: “With ten years of partnership with Truro and Penwith College, during which over 80 apprentices have benefited from the experience of working with us, our academy has been set up to inspire, train and develop hospitality professionals in Cornwall. In addition to learners progressing within the Rick Stein Group we have seen successful apprentices progress onto running their own restaurants and the businesses taking on their own Apprentices which we are incredibly proud of.”
Contact Truro and Penwith College on: Phone: 01872 242711 Email: Apprenticeships@truro-penwith.ac.uk
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 33
GROWTH
PROGRAMME
READY TO
choose
The Duchy now boasts modern industrial and office workspace that can help spearhead sustainable economic growth
This autumn sees the formal opening of a landmark development at the gateway to the Aerohub Business Park near Cornwall Airport Newquay. Sector 2 has been developed by Cornwall Council and co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and offers high-quality office and light industrial space to let. It is part of a suite of new high-quality business premises and plots across Cornwall that are owned by Cornwall Council and operated by Cornwall Development Company on its behalf. The aim is to provide new workspace that can support skilled, well-paid jobs and help meet the Growth Programme’s aim of delivering smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. Developments include the Aerohub Business Park at Newquay; the Enterprise
34 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
Space for Advanced Manufacturing (ESAM) near St Austell; the Marine Renewables Business Park West at Hayle, and its sister development, Marine Renewables Business Park East, at Tolvaddon, near Pool. For the first time all these assets are being brought together on a new website to make it easier for businesses to find their perfect location in Cornwall and is part of Cornwall Council’s objective of securing 38,000 new jobs on council land by 2030. Mike King, managing director of Cornwall Development Company, explains: “In recent years Cornwall Council and the EU-funded Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Growth Programme have partnered to invest more than £20 million in delivering high quality workspace and development plots for business, especially in growth sectors like aerospace and marine energy. “With Sector 2 at Aerohub now complete,
ESAM near St Austell attracting occupiers and plans for the second phase of the Marine Renewables Business Park at Hayle, it makes sense to bring all these developments under one banner so that businesses can see what’s available at a glance and what support may be available to help them locate.” A new website, www.choosecornwall. co.uk, is due to launch in October and will feature all the available office and industrial space available to let from Cornwall Council, and development plots for sale. They include: • Aerohub Business Park, Newquay – part of the Aerohub Enterprise Zone which means qualifying businesses may benefit from rate relief and capital allowances towards plant and machinery. Businesses from all sectors can apply to locate although preference is given to aerospace and
GROWTH
PROGRAMME
MARINE RENEWABLES BUSINESS PARK WEST
MAIN PHOTO: SECTOR 2 ON THE AEROHUB BUSINESS PARK
ENTERPRISE SPACE FOR ADVANCED MANUFACTURING (ESAM)
aerospace supply chain companies. A Local Development Order means the whole site has a fast-track planning process. • Sector 2: brand new flagship gateway development at the entrance to Aerohub Business Park, with nine high quality offices and eight light industrial units now available to let. • Plots: 13 fully serviced development plots for sale, from 0.27 to 1.33 hectares. Access roads, pavements, cycleways, landscaping and services already in place. • Enterprise Space for Advanced Manufacturing (ESAM) – flexible mix of 32 offices and workshops to let in a landmark building completed last year at the Carluddon Technology Park near the Eden Project. ESAM includes shared spaces, meeting rooms and audio visual conferencing facilities. It is aimed mainly at advanced manufacturing, engineering
and low carbon environmental goods and services businesses and has been designed to foster innovation and collaboration. • Marine Renewables Business Park, East & West – locations in Tolvaddon and Hayle and part of Cornwall’s Marine Enterprise Zone, which means qualifying businesses may benefit from rate relief and capital allowances towards plant and machinery. • Marine Renewables Business Park East: three fully serviced development plots for sale at Tolvaddon near Pool. Ideal for large footprint manufacturing, storage and assembly with direct access to the A30.
• Marine Renewables Business Park West: located at Hayle Harbour and offering 14 high quality offices and light industrial units to let, aimed at companies in the marine renewables and marine technology sectors.
To find our more please visit www.choosecornwall.co.uk or contact Beth Taylor-Stubbs, commercial property manager, Cornwall Development Company. Email: beth.taylor-stubbs@ cornwalldevelopmentcompany.co.uk
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 35
PEOPLE
ON THE MOVE
SPONSORED BY
www.sapiencehr.co.uk
REID TAKES THE HELM The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group has confirmed Stuart Reid as its new CEO. Reid had been serving as acting MD since last September, before which he was group chief operating officer.
ON BOARD AT CORNWALL CARE Cornwall Care has appointed three new executive directors after a rigorous threemonth recruitment and probationary process. Richard Bates, who has many years’ senior level experience in the NHS, joins as director of finance; Richard NixonEckersall, a retired brigadier who formerly worked at one of the highest strategic levels in NATO, is the charity’s new director of workforce and organisational development and Tracy Hampson, who has had a range of senior leadership roles in health, social and community care, has become director of operations. “I’m delighted to confirm that this distinguished trio of directors is now in place,” said chief executive Anne Thomas. “They all come with outstanding credentials and I’m excited that Cornwall Care is benefiting from their considerable expertise.”
CORSERV CHAIR Pete Andrew has been named permanent chairperson at Corserv. Andrew, who is deputy chairman of the Home Builders Federation, has a wealth of industry experience and was awarded an MBE in the 2018 New Year Honours list for ‘services to construction’ in recognition for this work. Corserv Group MD, Cath Robinson, said: “The depth, breadth and relevance of Pete’s experience to the Corserv Group’s work makes him an ideal candidate for the role of chairperson. “He takes over from Elaine Holt who retires from the role of interim chairperson, with my and the board’s thanks. Elaine will remain on the Corserv board as a nonexecutive director.” 36 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
Reid said: “I am delighted to be confirmed as CEO at an exciting time for the Steamship Group as we prepare to celebrate a milestone 100-year anniversary in 2020.
“We are embracing the future whilst cementing the group’s focus on our core activities, which remain, as they always have been, to provide lifeline air and shipping services to the Isles of Scilly upon which visitors and islanders alike can depend.”
TRUST IN DR ED One of the UK’s leading consultant paediatricians has been named as Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust’s first-ever vice president. Dr Ed Abrahamson will take on the honorary position, which is offered to the charity’s most committed and influential supporters. Dr Ed divides his time between Chelsea & Westminster Hospital and his private clinic at BUPA Cromwell Hospital. In the last year, he has raised more than £50k for the lifesaving charity. His connections have also brought businesses and well-known faces to support the charity including Dr Gabriel Weston, BBC reporter David Shukman, and TV presenter Alex Polizzi. Sarah Pryce, Chair of the Board of Trustees for Cornwall Air Ambulance, said: “This is an important moment for the charity- it is the first time we have appointed a vice president. We feel we have found the very best person to take on the position and strengthen the team we have.”
AGENCY HOOKS DUO
NMMC APPOINTMENT The National Maritime Museum Cornwall (NMMC) has appointed Simon Sharrard as its new chairman of trustees. Sharrard, who has been a trustee since 2014 and vice chairman since last year, replaces Peter Davies who is stepping down after several years at the helm. Having started his career at merchant banker, Samuel Montagu & Co, Sharrard later moved to Jardine Matheson and Co where he worked in Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. In 1985 he joined the shipping company Bibby Line Group Ltd in Liverpool as MD, becoming non-executive chairman in 2000. He has also been chairman of the Port of London Authority, deputy chairman of Lloyds Register and chairman of A&P Group.
Truro-based SEO and digital marketing agency, HookedOnMedia, has made two new appointments to its expanding team. Joe De Barros has joined as business development manager, while Shaun Nunn will be working on a variety of client campaigns as social media executive. MD Stewart Roode said: “The appointment of both Shaun and Joe allows us to grow key areas of our service offering and allows us to really push for new business development. With these new hires we’re building our business to deliver results and provide clients with the best service possible.”
NEWS
SPONSORED BY
#FSBCONNECT
SEARCH ON FOR SMALL BUSINESS STARS The search is on once again to find and salute the most outstanding small businesses from Cornwall and the wider south west. The FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards 2020 will culminate in both regional and national finals next spring. Small businesses throughout the south west will battle it out for prizes across 12 different categories and the free-to-enter awards are open to both FSB members and nonmembers alike. The awards in 2019 saw ARCO2 Architecture Ltd of Bodmin win the FSB South West Ethical-Green Business of the Year trophy and there was a host of fellow Cornish companies
PRACTICAL VIDEO WORKSHOP
shortlisted - The Vine An Gwinbrenn from Wadebridge, Cornwall Marine Network (Falmouth), Float Digital Marketing (Newquay), Leap (St Austell), Mother Ivey’s Holiday Park (near Padstow), NSN Electrical Limited (Penzance) and Oh So Social of Penryn. Roger Tarrant, the Cornwall-based FSB regional chair for the south west, said: “For a chance to be recognised as the best small business in the south west, as well as in the whole UK, I would encourage all small businesses to enter the FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards.”
For full details visit www.fsbawards.co.uk As a result of our last really successful and popular video theory workshop on 4 July, FSB is delighted to announce a follow-up practical workshop on September 17. This will be again in the mid Cornwall area and a more practical
day where you will go home with your own mini film that you have made yourself facilitated by the expert advice and coaching from Joe Turnbull from Bull & Wolf Film Co. This is for anyone from the complete novice to someone who wants to perfect their skills. You’ll learn and experiment using your smart phone to make videos to help promote your business. You will also learn how best to use them and some top tips. The workshop will be held at Carlyon Bay Hotel on September 17. Book your place now on eventbrite.co.uk or email vanessa.gale@fsb.org.uk
FSB POLICY ACTIVITY ROUNDUP FSB has launched its export campaign, Going Global, showcasing the best small UK exporters and encouraging more business owners to seek opportunities overseas. One in five small UK businesses export, but this proportion could be doubled with the right support. Visit the FSB Going Global Campaign Hub at www.fsb.org.uk to hear stories from small business exporters. Elsewhere, FSB Business Banking became one of the first signatories of the new Investing in Women Code. Launched in Downing Street, the Code commits signatories to supporting female entrepreneurship in the UK by improving women’s access to advice, resources and finance. FSB chief executive, Julie Lilley, said: “Developing and supporting women’s enterprise is critically important for the UK’s economic prosperity and, as an organisation, we’re walking the talk on this.” FSB directors and members met with the
Chancellor to discuss the UK’s late payment crisis. The talks follow recent government interventions, including proposals to fine repeat late payers and beef-up the Small Business Commissioner’s powers. Discussions also covered the opportunities presented by innovative payment platforms to speed-up payments between businesses. FSB was delighted to welcome MPs from Cornwall - Derek Thomas and Scott Mann - to its annual parliamentary reception in the House of Commons. MP for Rugby Mark Pawsey hosted the event, and spoke from his own experience as a small business owner. FSB national chair, Mike Cherry, called on parliamentarians from all parties to work together to end the uncertainty around Brexit in order to
allow businesses to thrive and grow. Baroness Hayter, the then deputy Labour Leader in the Lords, spoke about how important it is for parliamentarians to have real life small business examples to inform their debates and the role FSB plays in making this possible.
FSB Offer for Business Cornwall Magazine Readers at www.fsb.org.uk/join If you want to join FSB after reading this page then please quote BCM30 when you join and save £30! BUSINESS CORNWALL | 37
CREATIVE
AND DIGITAL
SPONSORED BY
ITEC BACKING PIRATES
This renewed three-year commitment will enable the club to welcome more guests in its hospitality suite in the upcoming season.
Nick Orme, CEO of ITEC, said: “The Cornish Pirates are coming back stronger than ever with an incredibly impressive team. We’re committed to helping them grow as a club and given there are plenty of avid fans based in our Cornwall office, it seemed a natural fit to sponsor them for another three years. We look forward to seeing what they can deliver this season.”
A new media and PR company has opened in Truro. Knights Media & Public Relations (Knights MPR) has been set up by Jason Knights, former head of communications at Lloyd’s Register in London, and specialises in the energy, shipping, technology, science and engineering sectors.
“Many are also experiencing how community engagement is a major boardroom topic on the back of increased consumer awareness on issues of sustainability and climate change. Combine these factors with the introduction of new technology, and the drive for change across business is transformational.”
Technology managed services provider ITEC has renewed its sponsorship of the Cornish Pirates’ hospitality and entertainment marquee for the third consecutive year.
In addition to its sponsorship pledge and as the Cornish Pirates’ official technology partner, ITEC will be developing an interactive app for supporters on match days, initially designed to replace the matchday programme.
DAY DAWNS FOR KNIGHTS
“Cornwall’s business needs are growing more complex,” said Knights. “Companies in the locality are looking for stronger market recognition, robust engagement and improved revenue.
www.digitalpeninsula.org
Digital marketing agency, Blind Pig Media, has been recognised as an official Facebook marketing partner.
THE WHOLE HOG
Blind Pig Media, which has creative hubs based in both Bude and London, says the recognition will open up many more opportunities for both the agency and its clients.
Co-founder, Steve Brookes, said: “We are delighted to have received this partnership accreditation from Facebook and to be recognised for our expertise and the results achieved for our clients.”
system to mitigate the power demands of high-performance computing.
Chris Roberts, head of data centre and cloud at Goonhilly, said: “There are people working on some clever algorithms to save our planet from climate change. The irony is that these models require heavy processing power. Fortunately new technology is helping, such as immersion cooling which is 45-50% more efficient than air cooling, cuts electricity demand in half, and also allows us to use the exhaust heat elsewhere.”
GREEN DATA CENTRE OPENS Goonhilly Earth Station has opened a new green data centre designed to become a high-performance computing hub for artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). The centre will use locally generated renewable power and an innovative cooling system where computers are kept cool by fully immersing them in liquid. Goonhilly is one of the first organisations in the UK to deploy a liquid immersion cooling 38 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
Goonhilly’s green platform is designed to meet the data-intensive needs of the automotive, life sciences and space/ aerospace marketplaces. Additionally, its onsite array of solar panels can support the data centre’s full power requirements of 500KW, and local wind power will be added to the mix shortly.
www.visitcornwall.com
NEWS
SPONSORED BY
DAIRYLAND SOLD
ELECTRIC DREAMS
One of Cornwall’s best-known tourist attractions, Dairyland Farm World near Newquay, has been sold by Miller Commercial. When it opened in 1975 under the guidance of the late Rex Davey, Dairyland was one of the first farm diversification tourist attractions in the country. The 60-acre site currently features an array of attraction facilities including a Cornish Heritage Museum, a nature trail, the milking parlour and the Bull Pen. “It has been a great pleasure to have developed an attraction that has brought so much pleasure to so many locals and visitors over many years,” said former MD, Brian Anderson. New owner and MD, Louise Richley, commented: “Dairyland is an integral part of the Cornwall tourism landscape and we have very exciting plans for this opportunity to build on the excellent attraction Brian and his team have developed.”
TOURISM
The Merchants Manor Hotel & Spa in Falmouth has installed an electric vehicle charging point on the hotel grounds. Chargemasters’ rapid charge point is capable of charging most electric vehicles up to 80% in under 30 minutes, with capacity to charge two vehicles at any time. Merchants Manor owner, Sioned ParryRudlin, commented: “There is no doubt that electric vehicles are part of the future and part of the solutions to the environmental problems we face.”
NEW AMENITIES BLOCK A new amenities block featuring modern underfloor heating opened in time for the summer season at Pentewan Sands Holiday Park. The block was specially designed for the resort in Mevagissey Bay by Cornwall-based architect, The Bazeley Partnership, and its design reflects the high standards of the five-star holiday park. The new facilities replace an outdated toilet and shower block and are fitted with solar
panels to boost the park’s eco-friendly credentials. Sales manager, Nicole Murray, said: “The underfloor heating will be more comfortable for guests, particularly during the colder months, and the PV solar panels will not only generate renewable energy to help power the toilet block, but will also help to power the park itself.”
CORNISH GEMS NOMINATED
WINTER EXTENSION Flybe’s route from Cornwall Airport Newquay to Leeds Bradford is being extended through to winter.
Luxury holiday lettings company Cornish Gems has been nominated for an internationally-recognised travel industry award. Cornish Gems, which manages a portfolio of 180 of Cornwall’s finest holiday homes, is a nominee for the Best UK Holiday Cottage Company in the 2019 British Travel Awards (BTAs). The winner will be determined by the public who have until September 30 to vote. Gems won Silver at the BTAs three years ago
and hopes to be successful again in 2019. The winners will be announced at the BTA Gala Awards Dinner in London on November 27. Co-managing director, Julianne Shelton, said: “We are immensely proud to have been nominated for the British Travel Awards again this year. Our team work incredibly hard to ensure the highest standards of accommodation for guests to enjoy whilst on holiday in our beautiful county.”
Currently being flown as a seasonal summer route, Flybe will operate the link on Mondays and Fridays effective between October 27 and March 27. Flybe’s chief commercial officer, Roy Kinnear, said: “We are pleased to add this popular summer route to our winter schedule for the first time this year giving our customers the opportunity to enjoy the best that both destinations have to offer. The timings are perfect for long weekends and, to ensure the very best possible fares, we would advise early booking.” BUSINESS CORNWALL | 39
EDUCATION
AND TRAINING
SPONSORED BY
www.truro-penwith.ac.uk
CHAIR STEPS DOWN Ellen Winser MBE has stepped down from her role as chair of Truro and Penwith College. Winser joined the Truro College in 2002, becoming chair two years later. Since that time, she has helped oversee a number of developments, including a merger with
Penwith College and the development of the college’s third campus at Callywith, Bodmin. She said: “‘I have enjoyed my many years with Truro and Penwith College hugely. It has been a pleasure to work with so many dedicated and talented people all committed to trying to provide the best educational opportunities for the students.”
DEVELOPING REPORT SLAMS FE FUNDING LEADERS Cornwall is welcoming an international speaker, television presenter and author to help develop leaders in the county. CCB Training, part of the Cornwall College Group, has announced Nigel Risner as headline speaker at its second Developing Leaders conference, at The Keay in St Austell on September 17. Risner, who wrote ‘It’s a zoo around here’ and ‘The impact code’, said: “I am passionate about helping people pick up wandering parts of their business and pull them together with new energy and passion.” For more details, go to ccbtraining.co.uk
Truro and Penwith College has welcomed a highly critical Commons Education Select Committee Report attacking a decade of Further Education funding cuts and urging a major increase in the FE funding rate for 16-18 year olds.
The cross-party committee has advised that the Government must “urgently address the damage that has been done” to FE by raising the 16-18 base rate as part of a multi-billion cash injection to the sector and produce a proper ten-year education funding plan to address social injustices and skills shortages. The Education Committee Report illustrates how “post-16 education has been cut to
the core” and argues for the restoration of “much needed strategic direction and financial certainty”.
Truro and Penwith College principal, David Walrond, said: “When MPs of all parties make the same collective point so powerfully, it can only be hoped that finally Government will respond. “As the largest provider of 16-19 education and skills training in Cornwall we have seen thousands of young people and their local communities disadvantaged as cuts have taken FE funding back, as The IFS confirms, to levels of a quarter of a century ago. The conclusion of this report is that this makes neither economic nor social sense.”
BUSINESS SHOW EXCELLENCE Cornish construction company, RG Kellow, was a double winner at the Excellence in Business Training Awards. More than 150 business people attended the twelfth annual CCB Training-hosted awards at Cornish Tipi Weddings, at St Kew. RG Kellow’s Levi Mitchell was named Young Apprentice of the Year while colleague Ross Harvey took the Skills Apprentice of the Year (19+) category. The Rural Apprentice of the Year Award was won by a previous Bicton College and Duchy College Agriculture Business Management apprentice, Ben Edwards, who works at Begbeer Farm, Crediton for CH & RJ Jordan and Son. 40 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
Pendennis Shipyard won the Outstanding Commitment to Apprenticeships Large Business award, while Carefree took the small business category and West Pharmaceutical Services the medium business category. Elaine McMahon, interim principal of The Cornwall College Group, said: “The standard of nominations this year was exceptional,” she said. “It’s been a wonderful night of entertainment and celebrations and I’ve been
humbled to be part of it.” Other winners on the night included Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust’s Kelly O’Toole (Professional Apprentice of the Year (19+) and Frugi’s Janine Laity, who took the Individual Champion to Staff Development award. Ocean Housing Group was recognised for its Outstanding Commitment to Training (51+ employees) while Hodgsons took the award in the 1-50 employees category.
JUST A THOUGHT
OPINION
When it comes to IT support, a ‘one size fits all’ approach rarely works, says Piran Technologies director, Alex Pugh
AVOID TEMPTATION Organisations are becoming increasingly concerned with efficiency, productivity and streamlining in order to remain competitive. Many businesses use packages to simplify pricing, services offered and the sign-up process. Sometimes these are broken down into tiers, like ‘Basic’, ‘Premium’ and ‘Business’, or into the categories their customers tend to fall into, like ‘Personal’, ‘Schools’ and ‘Corporate’. The problem with this way of working is that really, one size fits all just doesn’t work.
for a reply? The process might seem simple when it comes to set-up, but how can you be sure that the people providing your support really understand you and your business?
We believe that every business is unique
Often, clients will end up paying for services they don’t use, or not getting enough scope from their IT company in areas they really need support. Have you ever signed up for a service, only to be told that phone support isn’t offered as part of your package, that the cost is higher and you’ll need to submit a form and wait an unspecified number of days
Each client has their own particular needs and requirements and it is important that the IT provider realises this and takes time to understand their business, their goals, the challenges they face and what they really need from their IT support.
Often, clients will have a specific focus in mind: they want to migrate their systems to the cloud, or are concerned about online security. A ‘one size fits all’ approach would almost certainly fail to provide exactly the right support their business needs. Instead, a detailed audit, looking at current solutions and future requirements, is far more suitable. The ‘on-boarding’ process might take longer, but that’s one of the most crucial phases of any business relationship. This is when you really get to know each other, to work
together to create a plan tailored to the client’s specific requirements. If the start of this process comprises nothing more than selecting the best-fitting package and setting up a direct debit, the provider is missing out on essential information about their client, and the client is missing the chance to have their business needs and goals really understood. Typically, the client finds out after signing up that the product doesn’t work for them or there is a hidden cost with a long contract that cannot be broken. You may save some time initially, but you risk paying for it in the long term. In a world where timesaving is king, avoid the temptation of a quick ‘off the shelf’ solution. The considered approach is always the best bet and will deliver the best results for your business. And this doesn’t just apply to IT, of course. Whether you’re working in IT, HR, marketing – just about any business sector - taking the time to really understand your clients is a sure-fire way to guarantee success on both sides. BUSINESS CORNWALL | 41
TEST DRIVE
JAGUAR I-PACE
JAGUAR
WORDS BY MORVETH WARD
Carrs Jaguar Land Rover this month lent Morveth the all-electric Jaguar I-Pace. A highly coveted car which boasts 0-60 in just 4.5 seconds whilst being able to achieve approaching 300 miles on a single charge 42 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
The performance will ensure every journey will make you smile It was my first time visiting the brand-new Jaguar Land Rover showroom just off the A30 at Scorrier. A huge investment but with an incredible result. The detail and finish of the showroom itself is exceptional and great lengths have gone to ensure that client experience is second to none - it has set a new bar for showrooms in Cornwall. Features include an enclosed drive-through service area where you leave your car undercover and walk directly into the showroom where you are taken care of. Up until the I-Pace, it seemed Tesla pretty much had a monopoly over the premium all-electric car market over £50k. Now there’s more choice, including the new Audi E Tron, but the I-Pace is firmly at the centre and has been well received. What you have is a car that seemingly is too good to be true: new generation Jaguar refinement and luxury, coupled with planet saving eco credentials. I see the I-Pace as a luxury performance SUV which is reflected in the body design which compares to both coupes and SUVs alike – Its distinct and bold look turns heads, but being electric and with a softer carbon foot it means it’s widely well received and it’s hard to resultingly label it ostentatious, when it’s trying to do its bit for the planet. The cabin is less distinct but has the quality and finish to match the renowned German rivals. Untroubled and well-equipped, you
hardly notice that everything has been designed around the batteries which sit low down underneath you, leaving plenty of cabin and storage space. The drive is effortless and refined, just with a hint of tyre noise, which kind of indicates how quiet the rest is as there’s nothing to drown it out. The ride of beautifully smooth and uncompromised by the big 20” (or optional 22”) wheels. The performance will ensure every journey will make you smile. The combination of huge torque and linear power which is delivered instantaneously, together with a low centre of gravity and weight over the wheels to allow for exceptional grip, results in the I-Pace getting off the line absurdly quickly, throwing itself forward but with zero fuss and unwavering consistency – anything short of a seriously hot conventional car will get left for dead. And the thing is, the Jag doesn’t boast about this – the acceleration makes a mockery of the high-performance market without even trying. Don’t get too carried away though as the range will suffer! On the subject of range, based on my driving style which included a slightly heavier right foot than normal, it was still projecting over 250 miles which means places like Bristol and Cardiff are comfortably doable on a single charge and London and the Home Counties is just about achievable in one run (depending on where in Cornwall you’re coming from) or
better, give it a quick charge at a service station en route whilst you have a break. One thing that is worth noting: if you’re charging it from home off a domestic plug then it can take up to 24 hours to fully charge. This time is significantly reduced using purpose built rapid chargers. Overall this is probably the most relevant car I’ve driven to date and a very well accomplished one. If an EV suits your lifestyle and you can afford it, then this could well be the perfect car for you. It’s a lot cheaper than the luxury Tesla Model S and Model X and the Model 3, which comes in much cheaper, doesn’t offer the same luxury. The car I test drove is finished in Yulong white metallic paint with the ebony grained leather interior. The car is currently available to purchase at £64,999 from Carrs Jaguar in Scorrier
Contact: Carrs Jaguar, Scorrier 01872 305983
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 43
CONNECTED
CORNWALL
SPONSORED BY
PRINT POWER!
www.cioslep.co.uk
Business Cornwall teamed with St Austell Printing Company (SAPC) and NatWest to present a morning of seminars and workshops bestowing the power of print. There was also an opportunity for delegates to visit the SAPC factory floor
NAOMI SHELLEY (ANTALIS UK)
ADE TAYLOR (TONICK BUSINESS PUBLISHING)
MATT BUNT (SAPC)
44 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
PROOF READING WORKSHOP
JIM WHITTINGTON (ANTALIS UK)
CORNWALL
CONNECTED
INSPECTING THE SAPC PRINTING EQUIPMENT DURING THE FACTORY TOUR
JON HART (SAPC) LEADS THE FACTORY TOUR
DELEGATES ON THE FACTORY TOUR
PETER MOODY (SAPC) AND GRAHAM PRICHARD (LONGSPEE CONSULTANCY)
SARAH WALLIS (ROYAL MAIL), NAOMI SHELLEY (ANTALIS UK) AND TONI EYRIEY (TONICK BUSINESS PUBLISHING)
CHARLOTTE FREEMAN (CORNWALL AIR AMBULANCE), CHLOE SMITH (CORNWALL AIR AMBULANCE) AND LORRAINE WILLIAMS (LIGHTHOUSE PROOFREADING)
BETH MAYMAN (SAPC)
DELEGATES ENJOY A BUFFET LUNCH
TREVOR LEE (TREVOR LEE MEDIA) AND JAMES FERGUSON (X-PRESS LEGAL SERVICES)
PR WORKSHOP
LAMORNA ALLDRIDGE (NATWEST)
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 45
CONNECTED
CORNWALL
SPONSORED BY
www.cioslep.co.uk
SUMMER NETWORKING CRUISE
Business Cornwall hosted a summer networking cruise on the Fal. Thanks to Fal River Cornwall for the boat, Avo Catering for the delicious canapes, and St Austell Brewery for the beer!
JAMES SCOTT (NCI), SARA PUGH (EIGHT WIRE) AND MIKE REYNOLDS (ASSOCIATED BRITISH PORTS)
PUBLISHER TONI EYRIEY BREAKS OUT THE BEER!
PENNY PADDLE (PADDLE & COCKS), TOM SMITH (MILLER COMMERCIAL) AND ALISON BEER (VICKERY HOLMAN) DANIELE ANDRUCCIOLI (LAUNCHPAD), DANIEL GARSIDE (CONCEPT WORKWEAR) AND LEIMIN DUONG (LAUNCHPAD)
ROB RUSH (PFA RESEARCH) AND CAROLINE HILL (TONICK BUSINESS PUBLISHING)
ALEX CLIFTON (CARN BREA LEISURE CENTRE)
46 | BUSINESS CORNWALL
NETWORKING IN THE SUNSHINE
MARK POLGLASE AND DANNY WINGATE (AVO CATERING)
UPCOMING
SEPTEMBER EVENTS 5 6
SEPTEMBER
CORNWALL CHAMBER LUNCH
12
Pentillie Castle, Saltash
Join the Chamber for a networking lunch at the beautiful family-run Pentillie Castle, a grade II listed country house and 2,000 acre estate. Members and non members welcome. cornwallchamber.co.uk
CORNISH PARTNERSHIPS OPEN HOUSE
17
Premier Inn, Hayle
FSB PRACTICAL VIDEO WORKSHOP Carlyon Bay Hotel, St Austell
Perfect your video skills. You’ll learn how to use your smart phone to make videos to help promote your business. eventbrite.co.uk
CORNWALL INNOVATION CLUB Penventon Hotel, Redruth
18
24
Epiphany House, Truro
For further details of these and more networking events visit businesscornwall.co.uk To publicise your event for free, email news@businesscornwall.co.uk
The Club meets every Thursday morning in the Carnon Inn, where a healthy group of local business people help one another enhance their businesses. falmouthbusinessclub.co.uk
RIBA Cornwall and Cornwall Architectural Trust are delighted to be holding their AGM at Kresen Kernow, Cornwall’s new archive centre which secured £11.7 million funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2015. claire.bower@riba.org
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SEMINAR Murrell Associates’ next breakfast seminar will focus on legal aspects around commercial property development. eventbrite.co.uk
The Carnon Inn, Carnon Downs
Kresen Kernow
If you are an individual connected to the construction industry or its supply chain, why not join and network with other like-minded industry professionals over breakfast. cornishpartnerships.co.uk
The latest masterclass from Sapience HR will be touching on some hot topics such as equal opportunities; including the difference between illegal and legal discrimination and pay equality. sapiencehr.co.uk
FALMOUTH BUSINESS CLUB
RIBA CORNWALL AGM
Victoria Inn, Roche
The Hub, Carn Brea
Kernow Independent Networking Group gathers fortnightly. Members each give a one-minute presentation on their business. king-networking.co.uk
Cornish Partnerships members are invited to attend for the discounted rate of £5 each and guest can attend at the full rate of £13.95. cornishpartnerships.co.uk
CONSTRUCTION PARTNERSHIPS
SAPIENCE HR MASTERCLASS
Victoria Inn, Threemilestone
St Mellion International
Cornwall Chamber of Commerce seeks to inspire change amongst the business community. Why is the UK’s productivity the lowest in the EU? And what can Cornwall learn from agile technologies? cornwallchamber.co.uk
Cornwall is welcoming motivational speaker Nigel Risner to headline its second Developing Leaders conference. Free for SMEs or public sector organisations. ccbtraining.co.uk
Join former Wales and British & Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton for a three-course meal and auction of some great sporting memorabilia followed by a Q&A session. cornish-pirates.com
ATI’s next breakfast club will discuss ‘Services/Product Design & Prototyping’. Learn about how making sense of millions of free text comments, using a combination of AI technologies and a vast database of key words and phrases. aticornwallinnovation.co.uk
Heartlands, Redruth
The Keay, St Austell
The Mennaye, Penzance
KING BUSINESS NETWORKING
BIG BUSINESS NETWORKING BREAKFAST
PRODUCTIVITY CONFERENCE
19 DEVELOPING LEADERS CONFERENCE
AN EVENING WITH SAM WARBURTON
12
Penrose Kitchen, Truro
18
Power Lunches always have an amazing mix of business owners from Devon and Cornwall. You will meet so many great new contacts. cornishpartnerships.co.uk
Since January 2018, Cornish Partnerships has had great success holding a monthly Open House in the St Austell area. Now bringing that same networking to west Cornwall. cornishpartnerships.co.uk
10
CORNISH PARTNERSHIPS POWER LUNCH
EVENTS
2729
CORNWALL CHAMBER BREAKFAST Bedruthan Hotel, Mawgan Porth
Cornwall Chamber of Commerce would like to invite you to Bedruthan Hotel. Join them to meet and connect with a range of businesses of all shapes and sizes from all over the county. cornwallchamber.co.uk
TRURO FOOD FESTIVAL Lemon Quay, Truro
New food festival for Truro. The festival will be centred around Lemon Quay and Boscawen Street with pop-up events across the city. trurofoodfestival.com
BUSINESS CORNWALL | 47
THE LAST
WORD
SPONSORED BY
www.paddleandcocks.co.uk 01872 672072
HELEN DAVIES Partner and solicitor at WBW Solicitors and Ordinand with the Church of England
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG? A doctor, until my mother pointed out I couldn’t cope with the sight of blood. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB?
Articled clerk. They don’t exist anymore. My first-ever job was a newspaper round.
WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKETS?
A hankie, and usually a handful of post it notes with to do lists on.
HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX?
A book in the sun, or on a tennis court, or (a new passion) dog walking on the beach…
WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?
I still get a real buzz on every transaction that completes. But also, being the first female president of Cornwall Law Society.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR CAREER? After merging with WBW Solicitors, we had the task of
learning new processes and systems. Thankfully, we have brilliant people, who worked through it, and we now have all the advantages of working with the support of bigger teams, and client access to a much broader range of services.
WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT CORNWALL? Where to start?!
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IF YOU COULD INVITE ANY TWO PEOPLE FOR DINNER, WHO WOULD THEY BE AND WHY WOULD YOU INVITE THEM?
Carrie Morrison who was the first woman to qualify as a solicitor in 1922. She won a running race down Chancery Lane against the other three women who finished their training together, to decide who would be admitted first; and Angela Berners-Wilson, the first woman to be ordained priest in the Church of England in 1994. We could talk about their experiences, about how much has changed for women in the workplace, and where challenges remain.
IF YOU COULD BE GOD FOR A DAY, WHAT MIRACLE WOULD YOU PERFORM? First, I would abolish the need for foodbanks, then I would ensure there were pockets in all women’s’ clothing (for my hankie and to do notes).
WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST MISTAKE IN LIFE?
I look forward not back, but a few years ago I travelled up to London for a meeting, a day late.
WHAT WAS YOUR LUCKIEST BREAK?
A water leak, because of which I am with my lovely partner David (and his dog Marley). It’s a long story…
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME?
More of the same; an interesting job working with a great team of people, alongside part-time ministry in the church, and time for family and dog-walking.
Rise with the sun
Sleep in your own bed and still make your morning meeting. Fly Newquay to Heathrow and be in central London by 09:15.