Arun Business Partnership - Annual Review Magazine 2010 by Connects Media Ltd

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magazine Annual Review 2010

Arun Business Partnership

Review

2010 A

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IN E

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C AT NI IO U

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OFFICIAL

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THE NEW PREMIER GRANDSTAND AT FONTWELL PARK RACECOURSE

The £6.5m scheme will create a fantastic new raceday experience and a quality venue for weddings, conferences and other events. FOR RACEDAYS…

AND EVERYDAY…

A superb panoramic hospitality suite for more than 250 people

Twelve hospitality boxes with excellent views over the course (available for annual, half yearly or daily hire)

One of the biggest function suites for weddings and parties in West Sussex with room for 250 guests

Conference space for more than 500 delegates with twelve breakout rooms

New catering and betting facilities in a spacious ground floor hall

The creation of The Club at Fontwell House for the more discerning racegoer

A perfect venue for exhibitions, fairs, business to business events and presentations

More than 1000 square metres of space over two floors for a variety of other events

Fontwell Park is near Arundel in West Sussex

www.fontwellpark.co.uk Tel: 01243 543335

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

Meet your

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Welcome to‘The Magazine’

Diana Stow Editor

Steve Cusack

Mike Pisko

Publisher

Sales

Melanie Peters

Vicki Fairman

Sales

Miriam Nicholls on behalf of the Partnership Team.

How to use‘The Magazine’ Josh Domini Web

Publisher: Cam Business Development Solutions www.camcentral.co.uk 0870 1900 220 Design: Grapevine 01903 531531 Produced on behalf of the Arun Business Partnership

Arun businesses often have a lot to say. Generally that’s great! In this edition of the magazine you’ve all said so much that we’ve run out of space. Not wanting to cut you short we’ve edited each article and put the rest on our website - brilliant! Throughout the magazine you will see read more... Just go to: www.arunbusinesspartnership. co.uk and read more of the story!

Find out more about the team at

www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk If you’d like to talk to Miriam call 01903 737845 To talk to the CAM team call 0870 1900 220 WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

3 THE MAGAZINE

WELCOME

Miriam Nicholls Arun District Council

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

n terms of business, this has clearly been a challenging year. We hope that the Arun Business Partnership and the various events and meetings have helped you overcome a little of the gloom and doom and have also helped your business – we know that this has happened in many cases because you’ve told us! I thought it would be a good idea to look back at the year and see just what we have done. So …. we’ve held four regular meetings with around 70 people at each. Getting to Know You had great attendance and the Business of the Year Awards was a complete ‘sell out’ with 230 people celebrating just some of the great companies we have here in Arun. Alongside this, our monthly e-newsletter, which goes out to around 2,000 companies, keeps you up-to-date with what’s happening locally. If you don’t get the newsletter, please send us your email address and we will add you to our evergrowing list! This year our partners, such as Business Link and West Sussex Education Business Partnership, have worked even more closely with us and we do hope that you’ve seen the benefits of that in your business. The calendar is already filling up for 2010 and we hope to provide you with even more. Already we are planning, a bigger and better Getting to Know You, and a new website, while our friends at Fontwell Park Racecourse are working on a great deal to provide you with an evening ‘At the Races’. I hope you enjoy this edition of The Magazine. If you, or a business you know, wants more information about what’s going on, please send them my way or point them in the direction of www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk

ARUN BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

CONTENTS & A-Z OF ADVERTISERS

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Contents 5

Education & Training

12 Financial & Legal 16 Information Technology 20 Marketing 22 Arun Business Partnership Developments 24 Risk Assessment 28 Stress in the Workplace 31 Business Reviews 49 The Business Partnership Awards 71 Bognor Regis Regeneration 73 Littlehampton Regeneration 74 Diary of Arun Events 78 Networking with The Arun Business Partnership 79 Dates for you Diary 80 Arun Business Partnership Golf Day 82 Wine & Dine 88 Motoring 92 Road Safety

A-Z of Advertisers Access by Design

Direct Hygiene

Look and Sea Centre

The Aldingbourne Trust

dizzy

Memorial Stone Centre

A.J. Parker Vehicle Services

F.A. Holland & Son

Middleton Sports Club

Avisford Park Hilton Hotel

Fenton I.T

Moore Stephens South

AVN Petersons

Ferring Nurseries

Newbarn Cars

Award Winning Attitude

Fish Factory

Omni Brokers

Bay Studio

Fontwell Park Racecourse

Premier Cleaning Solutions

The Beachcroft Hotel

Frame of Mind

Performance Effects

The Black Horse Inn

G Allen

Purple Oak

Bognor PC Doctor

Garden Innovations

Ravensbourne

Brainwaves

GB Associates

South Coast Skips

Butlins

Goodheart Signs

Spofforths

C&M TROPHIES

HMP Ford

Stockblinds

CARS of Littlehampton

Holidays & Homes

STS

The University of Chichester

Hometyre Group Sussex

Sussex Safer Roads

Chichester College

IFAST

ThermoFloor Southern

Clear Computing

IES

Upfront Events

Comfort Inn

Inspire Leisure

Whole Being

Cuff Miller Littlehampton

Just Wood Flooring

Woodman Design

Dan Bridger Jewellery

L. Guess Jewellers

XL Design

Diamond/RS Couriers

Local Web Solutions

The Dining Room

The Lock Centre

THE MAGAZINE 4

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Offering More

bottom line. In the current economic climate, it is critically important to remain competitive and be positioned advantageously for the coming economic recovery. The College can advise on the funding available to assist employers, whether it be with 16-18 year old apprentices, Train to Gain for employees over the age of 19, vocationally-related courses or in the difficult area of making redundancies. In a recent survey, employers who had used the College spoke highly of the help they had received from staff – 98% of them said they would use the College to help with training again. The success rates for apprenticeships and NVQs studied in the workplace exceeds the national average and the number of employers taking on apprentices continues to grow despite the recession.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

ou would be forgiven for thinking that Chichester College, your local learning partner, is an organisation responsible for teaching 16-18 year olds in classrooms Monday to Friday 9am4pm. Ten years ago this would have been true, but today one of the fastest growing and most successful areas of the College is providing training services for employers. This training usually happens in the workplace at times and on dates that suit the organisation. The main aim is to work with local businesses and employers to develop their staff - the greatest asset an organisation has. College trainers are adept at designing bespoke, short courses to suit employer needs, in areas as diverse as absence management, conflict management, developing aspiring managers, finance, or looking at smarter ways of working to ensure improvements in meeting the

If you would like to find out more about what is on offer, or would like to take advantage of a free training needs analysis, then call the College on 01243 786321 ext 2170.

Arun Enterprise Challenge 2009

ollowing the spectacular success of the then Littlehampton Community School’s Dragon’s Den, a similar project was launched across all Arun’s secondary schools to find the Most Enterprising Team and the Most Enterprising Student. A series of days was set up where each school was set a challenge. These took place in real business premises and were set-up to be real business scenarios. After four rounds, the final one taking place at the Arun Business Partnership ‘Getting To Know You’ event, the enterprise judges announced the overall winners. The business support for these challenges has been unstinting. This has ranged from mentoring students through the challenges, to use of premises and even providing the prizes. Most Enterprising Student Our very own Most Enterprising Student was presented with her trophy and prize, sponsored by Kittiwake

Developments Ltd and Business Link at the Arun Business Partnership Awards. Laura James, currently studying for her GCSEs at The Littlehampton Academy, thanked the organisers of the challenge for the opportunity to take part and work with local businesses and students from other schools. Most Enterprising Team Arun’s Most Enterprising Team, from Felpham Community College, was also there. Mentored by local businessman Steve Cusack from CAM, the team proved to be worthy winners. “It was an honour to be involved,” said Steve. “Mentoring the young people was challenging and very rewarding. It is inspiring to be involved in nurturing young minds: if these young people are the future, then business looks bright.” Volunteers taking part were impressed with the quality of students’ work and their entrepreneurial skills. The event develops many of the skills students will need in the workplace – decision

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

BUSINESS CORNER

Than You Think!

making, initiative, risk taking, teamwork – and is a direct response to local businesses’ comments: “It’s alright having qualifications” said one employer, “but we need things like common sense and a good work ethic too.” Arun Enterprise Challenge 2010 This year’s event is already underway with 70 students from The Angmering School, The Littlehampton Academy, Felpham Community College and Bognor Regis Community College having taken part in Stage 2, which was hosted by Butlins in Bognor Regis. They were mentored by 13 local businesses in an effort to be the best! The winning team from each school will go forward to compete for this year’s title of Most Enterprising Team at a further challenge. If you would like any further information, please contact Jacqui Scerri, West Sussex Education Business Partnership or Chris Shephard, Arun District Council.

5 THE MAGAZINE

EDUCATION & TRAINING

BUSINESS CORNER

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Wise up to Wise Up 4 Work I

What’s been happening in Arun Schools

est Sussex Education Business Partnership and CAM Central are excited to announce the launch of Wise Up 4 Work; an innovative web-based tool that provides a platform where businesses, students and teachers can interact. West Sussex businesses will be given the opportunity to build their own business profile page, giving students access to invaluable, real-life interactive learning resources. Students and businesses across the county will also be able to communicate online via the Wise Up 4 Work forum, exchanging ideas and together coming up with creative solutions to real problems businesses may be facing. Steve Cusack from CAM says: “This will be a fantastic opportunity for all concerned to

work together to improve opportunities for local students and make sure local companies have a fully informed future workforce. It is inspiring to be involved in a project nurturing young minds and has been a pleasure to work on this with the Education Business Partnership.” West Sussex EBP are offering Arun Business Partnership businesses the chance to be among the first featured on Wise Up 4 Work, putting your business at the forefront of this exciting development bringing business and education together. If you are interested in learning more, please contact:

Lou Taylor West Sussex EBP lou.taylor@westsussex.gov.uk

Apprentice star encourages businesses to‘grow their own’

uth Badger, star of The Apprentice, opened this year's EBP conference 'Grow Your Own', an exciting event bringing business and young people together at Virgin Atlantic's The Base in Crawley. She delivered an inspirational speech, about the importance of businesses and young people working togethe,r to an audience made up of business delegates from across West Sussex and students from Bognor Regis Community College, Oriel High, Durrington High School and Central Sussex College. She was passionate about how contact with business had inspired her and put her on the road to success. She now offers the same opportunities to young people by offering them work experience within her own successful consultancy business. She said: "Young people with character, passion in business and common sense are needed in abundance." Students attending the conference helped to run the workshops, which included using social networking sites to increase business and a customer service session using Virgin’s cabin simulator. Henry Smith, Leader of the County

THE MAGAZINE 6

Council, who was also at the event, said: "It was great to see the enthusiasm of local business for working with young people. Both parties can reap real benefits from working together. I am keen to keep up the momentum by exploring how the County Council itself can lead the way by offering more work experience placements and encouraging staff to volunteer in schools." Katie Ollerenshaw, from Aneela Rose PR, said: "'Grow Your Own' really opened my eyes to the potential talent on offer at our local schools and colleges. The students came up with some really innovative ideas and as a result we are now considering engaging with students in our area."

t’s been a busy time for students in the Arun area of late. Students from The Littlehampton Academy took part in a speed networking event to help develop their confidence and communication skills. The Suited and Booted event, organised by Sara Hopkins from the school, is aimed at 6th form students who take part in workshops looking at the recruitment process from an employer’s perspective. Local business representatives short-list applicants and look at the type of questions that might be asked during an interview – and some of those that shouldn’t be! Sara said: “This is a great event which gives students the opportunity to network with real, local business people. We rely on them to support these students and make this event as realistic as possible.” Meanwhile, more than 250 students from The Angmering School spent a day planning the opening of a music shop with support from volunteers from HSBC Invoice Finance. Working in teams, the event was aimed at developing students’ enterprise skills such as teamwork, decision making and creativity. The winning team from the school has been invited to compete at the regional finals to be held in the summer where they’ll be up against the best from another five schools. On a much smaller scale, 11 students studying the new Creative & Media Diploma from Littlehampton and Angmering took part in a workshop to make musical instruments from waste materials including old cigar tubes, curtain rings and coffee tins. They’ll be using the instruments to write and perform a piece later in the year. Education Business Partnership jacqui.scerri@westsussex.gov.uk 01903 703552

Education Business Partnership jacqui.scerri@westsussex.gov.uk 01903 703552 WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Supporting West Sussex Employers

Why pay to recruit a graduate? Our team want to help place a motivated and skilled graduate in your business on a short term basis. Terms and conditions are negotiable. Contact information – Email: Natalie.White@chichester.ac.uk Tel: (01243) 786321 Ext. 2385 www.graduateon.net Facebook and Twitter

Testimonial from local business: “We found the GraduateOn scheme to be a huge help to us. I would recommend the scheme to anyone who is interested in employing a graduate.” – Clive Loseby, Managing Director - Access by Design

GraduateOn

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EDUCATION & TRAINING

BUSINESS CORNER

Suited and Booted at Littlehampton College 17th November 2009

n a highly competitive market for jobs and university places, our students need to stand out from the crowd and really sell themselves. This year’s Suited and Booted College Conference offered them an insight into how one Sussexbased company has turned an ‘ordinary’ product into a premium market leader, how managers make judgements and decisions based on the application forms that they receive and how successful people use networking to get ahead.

James Foottit from Higgidy (see www.higgidy.co.uk) James kick-started the conference, talking about the business that he and his wife created in 2004 after spotting a gap in the food market. Like Kate’s Cakes and Innocent Smoothies, Higgidy starting selling to friends and family, but now has annual sales exceeding £4million. Higgidy sets itself high standards: ingredients come from Britain, meat is Freedom Food and all of the pies are handmade. James described his unconventional career path and the journey to running his own company in Shoreham, inspiring our students with his ‘can do’ attitude and his philosophy of taking nothing (including commercial success) for granted. James invited our students to suggest ideas for a new brand and logo design for a new branch of the company. The competition entries are coming in. Our thanks to Gareth Sear, from the West Sussex Enterprise Gateway, for generously sponsoring £150 worth of prizes for the day, including a £50 iTunes voucher for the winning design. The workshops The workshops were led by our teachers, kindly supported by volunteer business guests. The focus was on ‘how to write a good application’, whether for work or university. Our business guests actively shared their experiences and helped to advise our students on what makes a good or bad application, reinforcing the messages that the students had heard in their lessons. With thanks to Jacqui Scerri from the West Sussex Education Business

THE MAGAZINE 8

Partnership for running a training session for our teachers and for supplying the resources to host the application workshops. Speed networking Based on the highly successful Arun Business Partnership networking meetings, and hosted by Miriam Nicholls, our students were joined by additional business guests from a wide variety of professions and sectors. We just about managed to squeeze the nearly 250 ‘networkers’ into the school hall for a lively hour of fast talking and ideas sharing. Ollie Heath from Drum Up Education (see www.drumupeducation.com). Ollie is an inspiring music teacher who uses his unique skills in drumming, body percussion, singing and drama to help young people learn quickly, gain

confidence, improve results and succeed. Ollie has been running Drum Up Education for ten years, working with schools and organisations across the UK. He had everyone up on their feet, stamping and clapping in a fantastic display of rhythm and team work. It couldn’t have happened without…… Our fabulous guest speakers and all of our business guests who kindly gave up their time to work with us. Thank you to: Miriam Nicholls from Arun District Council for hosting the speed networking; Sara Hopkins, Community Liaison Manager at The Littlehampton Academy, for devising and organising the conference; Jacqui Scerri, Education Business Partnership Co-ordinator, for running workshop training sessions and for supporting us on the day; and all our staff and students for making it such a success!

Jacqui, Miriam and Sara WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Making Us full time employment using NLP. Felicity Davies, a recent graduate of the University of Chichester, said: “I am so impressed and grateful for all the guidance Whole Being has given me through my journey from graduation to the working world. Thanks to Graham and Claire, not only do I have more direction in my aspirations and goals, but I have been taught how to improve personal skills that affect my everyday life. “Most importantly, Graham and Claire have shown me how to embrace difficult situations with confidence and open arms, and follow my dreams. “I would definitely recommend Whole Being to anyone leaving university who might be nervous about entering the working world,” says Felicity. “Graham and Claire are truly dedicated in ensuring you are happy and comfortable with

EDUCATION & TRAINING

hole Being is an NLP training company dedicated to enabling people to fulfil their potential. NLP stands for Neuro Linguistic Programming. It's an approach that comes from the study of humans at their best, and is used in many fields including business, sports, art, health, education, sales, entrepreneurship, marketing and personal development - in fact, anywhere that involves human excellence. Based in Littlehampton and Bognor Regis, Whole Being was founded in 2003 by Graham Constantine and Claire Towers. The double act has worked with a variety of organisations, but most recently with the GraduateOn programme. Together they have been working closely with graduates, guiding them through the transition from full time education to a work placement or

your work placement. I can honestly say that their knowledge and expertise have been invaluable.” Do you know a recent graduate who needs some help, or would your company benefit by taking a graduate on work placement? Then call us now on 0845 241 0490 or email info@wholebeing.co.uk www.wholebeing.co.uk

Join West Sussex Businesses

irms in West Sussex could benefit from the skills and enthusiasm of University of Chichester graduates through an innovative scheme operating in the county. GraduateOn brings together businesses looking for short-term or permanent recruits and graduates who are hoping to put their newly acquired skills into practice with a local firm. Access by Design is a Chichester website design company which has used the GraduateOn scheme. Its managing director Clive Loseby said: “We found the scheme to be a huge help to us. We were in the position that we were looking for one or two new members of staff to start quickly. Our interviews were arranged within a few days and I'm delighted to say that we now have two new members of staff: a junior designer and office manager! I would recommend the scheme to anyone who is interested in employing a graduate.” GraduateOn is a low risk and potentially low cost way of getting dedicated and skilled staff working on business projects. Graduates have a range of transferable skills

that give them the creativity and maturity to solve problems, take initiative and manage their own time – and contribute to your business. Using a GraduateOn graduate, firms can be assured they will get a motivated individual, backed up by professional support from the GraduateOn team. The scheme is run by the University of

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

BUSINESS CORNER

Whole Beings

Chichester in partnership with Chichester College, West Sussex County Council, Arun District Council and Chichester District Council. To find out more about how your business can benefit from a graduate, call 01243 786321 Ext 2385, or email Natalie.white@chichester.ac.uk

9 THE MAGAZINE

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Give your business the X-Factor Discover how you can: • Create a positive mind set • Think more creatively • Inspire and Motivate • Win more business • Improve your productivity Arun Business Partnership Offer FREE Business Coaching Session

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NLP with Whole Being Web: http://www.wholebeing.co.uk

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Its all about mind set, Graham and Claire get you moving in the right direction

Highly practical tips that I put to use instantly

Omni (Brokers) Limited 32 Sudley Road, Bognor Regis, West Sussex. PO21 1EL Fax: 01243 826833 Email: mail@omnibrokers.co.uk Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority

In a recent survey of our business customers 98% said they would happily use us again to train their staff. Call now to find out what makes our training so special and how it can improve your business performance. Whether it’s Apprenticeships, NVQs, Train to Gain or bespoke courses, we can help you decide which training will work best for you.

college

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Proactive business advisers & accountants who spend time getting to know your business

Our refreshing accountancy approach includes: • An experienced Business Consultant who proactively looks after your business • Fixed fees agreed in advance (so no nasty surprises!) • Regular communication • Meetings at times & places that suit you Our range of services for business owners includes: • Business owner mentoring • Annual accounts & business tax • Personal tax • Book-keeping & VAT • Payroll • Management accounts & action workshops

0845 899 0000

PERFORMANCE EFFECTS

Business Consultants Strategic Business Planning Performance Improvement Sales and Marketing Strategy Business Development Tel/fax: +44 (0)1903 783976 E:enquiries@performanceeffects.co.uk www.performanceeffects.co.uk 26 Lansdowne Road, Angmering, West Sussex, UK, BN16 4JX

www.BrainwavesGAP.com

Adur Business Centre, Shoreham, West Sussex BN43 5EG Jill.Sherwin@BrainwavesGAP.com

Helping local owner managed businesses become the most successful and enjoyable to run in the world

We provide one hour consultations free of charge and can give fixed price quotes. We offer traditional accounting and taxation services and much more………. advice on improving cashflow, business diagnostic reviews, benchmarking

Petersons - “Making a difference by being different” Church House, 94 Felpham Road, Felpham, Bognor Regis, West Sussex, PO22 7PG

Tel: 01243 825924 Fax: 01243 837736 email: info@avnpetersons.co.uk Web: www.avnpetersons.co.uk

We are a one stop shop for all your security needs & have a product range to suit all your requirements

We offer Locks – Safes – Key Cutting Full Locksmith Service – Security Lighting – Automated Gates Steel Doors – Shutters for windows- garage doors domestic & commercial Windows grates and grilles - Security AlarmsCCTV- Access Controls NSI Gold Installer- We are the only One in the Arun District Security Alarms- CCTV- Access Controls Offering new and existing Customers great deals in the next 12 months to celebrate 25 years in Business

The Old Fire Station 8 The High Street, Bognor Regis, West Sussex, PO21 1SR Telephone 01243 829427 Fax 01243 841179

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The Business FINANCIAL & LEGAL

BUSINESS CORNER

of Recovery

Yvonne Bear, HSBC’s regional commercial director for the South, considers what 2010 holds in store for the region’s businesses.

rading conditions have been tough in the South during the recession, with asset volumes and turnovers reduced and demand for finance slumping across all sectors. That said, there are positive signs of recovery thanks, in part, to the willingness of the region’s businesses to review their business models and make them leaner and more flexible. A report from HSBC, The Business of Recovery, examines how businesses have evolved and coped throughout the downturn and looks ahead to recovery. It reveals that, as we head towards the long-awaited upturn, the biggest battles

THE MAGAZINE 12

- and greatest opportunities – could be yet to come. History indicates that more businesses fail in the early days of a recovery than in a recession and unless businesses rethink their approach to funding and finance, the road out of the recession could be rocky. Given the challenging trading conditions businesses have been operating in, it is understandable that they have been financially prudent, but our report reveals - with just 15 per cent of UK-based companies currently seeking external investment - a worrying trend towards short-termism and selffinancing. We are urging businesses to take stock this year: to talk to their banks to ensure they make the most of future opportunities. The misconception still exists that banks aren’t lending to businesses, but this is simply not the case. Our lending strategy hasn't changed - there are funds available and we continue to consider new borrowing

requests from businesses across all sectors. We are looking to support firms with good cash flow management, a strong balance sheet, a sound business plan, a well-balanced management team, and a good banking record, that are aiming to develop and grow their business. HSBC’s message to businesses in the South in 2010 is clear: if you tighten your grasp on the purse strings at the expense of investment, you could unintentionally hamper your recovery and miss out on opportunities to grow and prosper. We are urging businesses to take a longer-term approach; talk to their banks and review their financial options, to make themselves fighting fit to go about the business of recovery. To contact HSBC's Commercial Banking team or for more information on the services on offer to businesses in the region visit www.hsbc.co.uk/business or email yvonnebear@hsbc.com

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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recession

BUSINESS CORNER

Riding the

FINANCIAL & LEGAL

he recession has shown us how quickly we can move from boom to bust and how fundamental that change can be to businesses. It’s impossible to assess the full effect right now as many are predicting “the worst is still to come”, and just as many are predicting “a slow but gradual recovery”. What is clear is that many firms have reduced their cost base and dug their trenches. Yet, is this introspective analysis of expenses going to hinder them when we do see signs of recovery? It is critical for the business owner to

consider how they are positioned to take advantage of a recovery and to take steps to prepare. Answering such questions as: • How agile is my business to change in a changing market place? • What makes my business unique, special and different? • Yes I’ve reduced costs but can I find a way to justify increasing my prices? • Am I really sell, sell, selling? At Petersons we offer our business clients all the traditional accountancy and

taxation services and much, much more.... pro-active advice and mentoring, diagnostic reviews, benchmarking, cash flow monitoring and advice. Our aim is to help our customers' businesses become the most successful and enjoyable to run in the world. read more...

For more information please call Nicolette Anscombe, AVN Petersons, 01243 825924 or alternatively visit: www.avnpetersons.co.uk

Free Business Insurance Review

t is inevitable to feel the effect of worldwide financial turmoil and rising unemployment. It is at times like these when employers can benefit from working closely with our business insurance specialists at Omni (Brokers) Limited to identify areas where savings can be made whilst ensuring adequate cover is in place. The free review carried out by Omni’s business insurance specialists can often result in premium savings and improved

cover. This service is of particular value in ensuring that companies are not under insured (or uninsured!), as, in the event of a claim, no-one in business wants to suffer a loss - particularly in times of financial pressure. Omni demonstrates that with good, impartial, professional advice, businesses can be properly protected to help them through the tough times and benefit when the economy is back on track.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

Telephone Graham Rousell on 01243 864018 to find out how Omni can help you. Omni (Brokers) Limited is a member of the British Insurance Brokers Association and Institution of Insurance Brokers. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. read more...

Email: mail@omnibrokers.co.uk

13 THE MAGAZINE

FINANCIAL & LEGAL

BUSINESS CORNER

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Creating better businesses for the future

Getting to

Know You

hat makes one accountancy firm different from another? Moore Stephens South, a member of the eleventh largest accounting and consulting network in the UK, believe it’s their partner-led approach to working with clients that sets them apart. Being small enough to care, yet large enough to cope, is an added benefit as it enables them to provide the best of both worlds to their clients – a refreshingly personal service with access to experts wherever their clients are doing business. With the aid of record-breaking sailor, and now sustainability campaigner, Dame Ellen MacArthur, Moore Stephens South recently launched an initiative to assist companies in doing good business and achieving long-term sustainable growth. ‘Building Better Business’ is designed to give family-owned firms and medium-sized companies the building blocks to create a better business for themselves, their employees, their suppliers and the wider community. Chairman of Moore Stephens South, Mike Scott explained: “As business owner managers and community accountants, we understand the enormous pressure companies are under in these tough times to cut costs and reduce their overheads. We want to make a real difference, not only to our clients’ bottom line but to their shelf life too, that’s why our four offices in Chichester, Southampton, IOW and Salisbury have developed this forwardthinking initiative.” As part of the firm’s wider Corporate Social Responsibility strategy, Moore Stephens South is rolling out a programme of environmentally-conscious initiatives aimed at reducing the carbon footprint for its clients and within its own organisation. Moore Stephens South has already put in place recycling and waste management schemes, and is developing a bespoke system for clients to access their financial records on secure servers, as well as moving to a paperless office by using IT more effectively. Whatever the future holds, Moore Stephens South has the resources, expertise and knowledge to help you achieve your goals. For more information, contact Mike Scott on 01243 531600 or visit: www.moorestephens.co.uk

Meet Andrew Dunlop, Partner at Spofforths Q: What makes Spofforths different? A: We are a family business and deal with a lot of other family-run businesses in Sussex, so we can offer a personal touch and an insight based on local knowledge.

Q: What services do you offer? A: We provide a broad range of services including advice on corporate finances, inheritance tax, financial planning, investment advice, business planning and evaluations.

Q: Is it important to have strong community links? A: Absolutely. Many of our staff are from Sussex and the community plays an important role.

Q: Do you support local charities? A: We sponsor local Christmas Lights and The Colts - a local mini rugby team. We are keen to encourage children to do more sport.

Q: What was your favourite Spofforths event in 2009? A: I really enjoyed the Spofforths Arundel Festival of Cricket. We sponsored the festival and invited clients along. By getting involved it felt like we were giving something back to the community.

Q: What are your hopes for 2010? A: I want to see an upturn for clients. This is the first recession many have seen and it’s been hard to watch them struggle.

Q: Is economic recovery on its way? A: Yes, but we need to be realistic. The main thing it to keep the business turning over and plan for recovery.

Q: What is your advice for local businesses? A: Businesses should focus on their core service. For us, for example, that’s client service. Others may need to continue keeping their costs low. I think it’s important to keep your loyal customers - they are your bread and butter.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job? A: Client contact, without a shadow of doubt: I’m definitely a people person!

For further information please contact Andrew on 01243 787 627 or email andrewdunlop@spofforths.co.uk www.spofforths.co.uk

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WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Searching for the right advice for your business isn’t always plain sailing...

If you’re looking for an easier way to get the best advice, take a look at Moore Stephens. As a leading accountancy firm, you’ll find we have an altogether better approach. With our local knowledge and international expertise, we’ll set you on the right course and help you get your business to wherever you want it to go.

Moore Stephens Chichester City Gates, 2-4 Southgate, Chichester

Tel: 01243 531 600 | www.moorestephens.co.uk Moore Stephens (South) LLP are registered to carry on audit work and regulated for a range of investment business activities by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales.

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À vÕÀÌ iÀ v À >Ì À Ì >ÀÀ> }i > vÀii V ÃÕ Ì>Ì ] « i>Ãi V Ì>VÌ `ÀiÜ Õ « ä£Ó{Î ÇnÇ ÈÓÇ À i > > `ÀiÜ`Õ «JÃ« vv ÀÌ Ã°V °Õ "vwViÃ V iÃÌiÀ] À } Ì ] ÀÃ > ] -Ì ÀÀ }Ì > ` 7 ÀÌ } ÜÜÜ°Ã« vv ÀÌ Ã°V °Õ

BUSINESS CORNER

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What’s In Store For Us

in 2010?

We take a quick look at some of the technological trends for 2010 and ask if it’s all an accident waiting to happen. PORTABLE DEVICES – ON THE GO GO GO! Becoming tied to a desk has long been a thing of the past with reasons to sit at a desk becoming ever fewer. It’s also a sad, but a very true, fact that there is no such thing as getting away from the office anymore. Wireless technology means email and Internet access is even available on the beaches of the remotest desert islands. The functionality of portable devices is going to evolve at a phenomenal rate in 2010 with the eagerly anticipated release of Google Android Version 3.0 which will trigger a species of portable devices. If it can be done on a portable device, then it will. Dedicated Sat Nav is already considered doomed with most new phones shipping it as standard. If you thought the iPhone was good, June 2010 is going to be an exciting time. Facebook, Twitter and MySpace are among some of the more familiar social networking websites and are proving to be an addictive compulsion to many. With applications developed for most new phones, avid social networkers can tweet their every move no matter where they are. Social networking websites – harmless fun? Have you considered the risks? Social networking has been everywhere this year and rarely out of the news for good and bad reasons. Social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter will all be looking to attract new members in 2010. But, should you sign up? Let’s meet Mrs Smith. She is 25 years old, she works and lives in a quaint little village in the country, she attended the local schools along with all the other local people, she has a dog called Bobby, her friends are on Facebook, even her mum is on Facebook, and she is excited as she has three days until she goes on holiday to Spain for two weeks. What’s the problem? We know her name, her maiden name, her date of birth, her email address, her pet’s name, her first school, her high school; and from that it isn’t too difficult to

THE MAGAZINE 16

find her address and telephone number. For those who haven’t got a devious bone in their body, I shall elaborate. . . let’s put ourselves in the shoes of a would-be burglar . . . Mrs Smith has also conveniently told us that she will be out of the country in a few days for a couple of weeks, but we could call her just to make sure! Assuming we find a few utility bills whilst we are there and a credit card and bank statement we could go on a shopping spree, after all, “we are in a recession”. Sound far fetched? Insurance companies consider it such a serious problem that they are asking would be policy holders if they have social network site accounts? HAVE YOU HAD ANY CLAIMS IN THE PAST THREE YEARS? ARE YOU A SMOKER? AND BY THE WAY, DO YOU TWEET? Organised crime is targeting social networking sites as anonymous ways into people lives and it’s a lucrative practice but the public are wising up.

And it is costly too. One FTSE firm estimated that dealing with pointless emails cost it £39m a year in wasted productivity. Wherever there is an abundance of prey you will naturally find predators. Computer users are no exception with organised cyber criminals seeing them as an easy meal. Now firms are being forced to help staff deal with the daily avalanche in their inboxes. Some hire email consultants, while others are conducting tests with email-free days. So what’s the diagnosis? It’s simple really: a lot of the trendy things in store for us in 2010, namely, portable devices, online banking, e-commerce and social networking, whilst seeming innocent in their own capacities, are an accident waiting to happen. Be careful! For more information contact 0845 688 9090 nigel.morgan@purpleoak.co.uk www.purpleoak.co.uk

EVEN MY NAN KNOWS NOT TO OPEN AN EMAIL ATTACHMENT FROM SOMEONE SHE DOESN’T KNOW! Older tactics are proving less effective and organised crime knows this: yes, that’s right, organised crime. It amazes me that most people still class spam as a petty annoyance and don’t consider it for what it is, attempted fraud. OK, I admit I sound like one of those grumpy old men off of the telly, but it’s true. It isn’t really that surprising considering everyone is banking through their computers and buying online. As a result of this, spam is going to get worse, a lot worse, more complex and be received in much higher volumes! Spam contributes 94% of all email with 2010 predicting a rise to 97% of all email. That’s 250 billion spam emails sent worldwide every day! It can seem that we spend up to half our working day going through our inbox, leaving us tired, frustrated and unproductive. A recent study found a third of office workers suffer from email-related stress. WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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IS THIS YOU?...

Are you waiting until you have an I.T. problem before you do anything about it?

IS IT ABOUT TIME THAT YOU HAD THE WORRY OF NETWORK AND EMAIL ISSUES ALLEVIATED?

Do you know the impact on your business if you had no email or lost your data?

YOUR OWN I.T. DEPARTMENT COSTS LESS THAN YOU THINK! INTERESTED? THEN READ ON…

Would your business be able to function at an efficient level? What are the financial implications on downtime and being unable to work? If you don’t have the answers to these questions – you are not alone! A poll of UK SMEs found that less than half had any contingency plan in place should their computer systems fail. Those that had conducted a risk assessment - less than 20% felt confident that they had a solution in place that reflected the demands of their business. Most felt they were still susceptible to suffer serious disruption as a consequence despite addressing the threat to their business.

IS YOUR BUSINESS AT RISK? To assist you we have provided a check list of essential questions you need to be asking yourself. 1) DATA BACKUP – Is ALL your DATA backed up and when was the last time you tested it? 2) DOCUMENT – Do you document how all your I.T. fits together, who does what and Passwords? 3) SOFTWARE – Where are the CDs and license numbers? Could you reinstall if you had to? 4) EMAIL – Anti Virus, Anti Spam and backed up? Are you mobile with email yet and should you be? 5) DOMAIN – Is your domain registered in your business’ name? When does it need reregistering? 6) BUDGET – Can your I.T. budget be trimmed? Have you reviewed your suppliers? 7) BROADBAND & TELEPHONE – Are you getting the best deal you can? Is your Broadband 24Mb? 8) ANTI VIRUS & SECURITY – Are you protected? Are you certain of this? 9) IT KNOWLEDGE – Knowing more than you do doesn’t make your I.T. supplier an expert! Can issues be resolved with new technology? 10) WEBSITE – Is your website delivering the enquiries it should and is it working for you?

Telephone: 01903 766694

What we find when we speak to our clients is that they want stability for their company’s I.T. – and by outsourcing the responsibility to us, who keep up to date with the constant changes in technology and the issues surrounding it – not only do we take away the stability and security issues we keep them on top of new services that may be beneficial to them. Just like many companies outsource their accounts – companies are now outsourcing their I.T. In the same way an accountant may cost you ‘X’ amount a year – due to their knowledge of the tax system they can save you even more. The same is true of I.T. companies like Purpleoak – their knowledge not only gives you the security of having I.T. capability and peace of mind that your company’s networks etc are in safe hands – but in the long term they save you money. “Our clients are finding that we have alleviated their network issues – made them more competitive – by becoming more time and cost efficient. A simple review of your I.T. and communications strategy will invariably result in a more resilient system and I guarantee you will save money!! We are not just here in an emergency either – we are here to answer all your I.T. needs and questions – just like you would expect of your own I.T. department.” Says Nigel Morgan of PurpleOak.

EXAMPLES OF QUESTIONS WE HAVE BEEN ASKED THIS MONTH... Should we upgrade to Windows 7? Is Facebook safe? Why am I getting so much spam? Why is my internet so slow? Can you help me with my social media? These are a few of the questions we have answered for our clients this month – we are not just here for your I.T disasters. Here at Purpleoak we are proud of the products and services we provide – and the companies we support. If you would like to chat to us regarding your requirements or our services then please feel free to give us a call, visit the website for further information or email me nigel.morgan@purpleoak.co.uk

www.purpleoak.co.uk

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Computer Systems for Small Businesses

In these uncertain times there is a need to ensure that the administrative functions of your business are efficient and easy to use with the minimum of input time from you and your staff. At GB Associates we specialise in providing Access based solutions that are inexpensive but enable you to provide an improved service to your customers leaving you to concentrate on developing your business. In addition, we can provide support to enhance any existing Access based systems. We work with many local companies and our fields of expertise include: • • • • • • •

Sales order processing and invoicing Purchasing Stock control Manufacturing, Bills of Materials etc Travel Agency Horticulture Interface to Sage Accounts

We would welcome the opportunity of meeting with you to discuss your requirements and to offer a solution.

GB ASSOCIATES B

01243 585 615 0771 863 4378

Bognor PC Doctor Friendly, Local and Inexpensive We cover Bognor, Chichester and surrounding villages. What we specialise in• Broadband supply and installaition • Mail & internet troubleshooting • PC faults and virus removals • Computer training • Websites designed and published • Search Engine Optimizartion

CALL PIERRE ON:

01243 855755

xtreme creativity To find out how our performance lead branding & marketing solutions can help enhance your business and drive it forward call 01903 200938 and take advantage of our FREE brand & marketing healthcheck.

www.bpcd.co.uk 24hr voicemail 07092 307 631

101Felpham Way, Bognor Regis PO22 8QB

Creating a bigger picture

Exercise caution at: xldesign.co.uk 2 branding M brochures v literature a websites , direct mail/e-shots x advertising - exhibition/posters

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Virtualisation – virtualisation can dramatically improve the efficiency and availability of resources and applications in your organisation. Rather than having a ‘one server one role’ model, virtualisation allows you to host multiple operating systems on the same hardware to create a balanced environment and also adds fault tolerance across physical hardware.

xperienced IT consultant Barny Hall has highlighted the top five technologies and trends which should be considered in 2010 to push your business into the new decade. It is important, no matter if you’re a sole trader or part of a global organisation, that you understand how technology can enhance your capacity to work effectively thus giving you back what is the most precious of resources, your time. The advancement of the bandwidth available to both home and business users at cost-effective rates means technologies such as VoIP and ‘cloud computing’ will enhance functionality and save you money.

Cloud computing - an Internet-based way of working where users access applications through a web browser rather than hosting software locally on their own PC. This technique can provide a cost-effective way of implementing flexible solutions with fault tolerance. Green IT solutions – the question is: can you afford not to look at greener solutions? When considering the

Social networking – keeping in touch and informing your clients has never been simpler with the use of networking sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and so on. If your company does not have a presence on sites of this ilk then you are missing out on a massive amount of free promotion. Clear Computing 01903 786702, info@clear-computing.co.uk www.clear-computing.co.uk

Top five IT trends for 2010 VoIP – there are massive benefits to VoIP systems, not least being the saving on the cost of calls and the ability to have a managed phone system giving you flexibility to route, record and integrate your calls into other systems.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

19 THE MAGAZINE

purchase of new equipment, what is the cost of running the technology and how long is its life cycle? When you review these criteria it can be more cost effective to pay the slightly higher cost for a greener system as the saving in your electricity bill will more than offset this. As well as costs, you have to consider time: holding meetings using video conferencing allows staff to reduce travelling time.

BUSINESS CORNER

How IT can save you time and money

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Marketing your way MARKETING

BUSINESS CORNER

out of

arketing is often one of the first casualties of recession. But think twice before you cut the budget and reduce your activity. A recession is not the time to make your products and services less visible. Companies that keep on marketing throughout a recession are more likely to survive. Keep your profile high but make sure that your marketing is recession savvy. Find out how the recession is affecting your customers – help to address their concerns and show that you are still able to satisfy their needs. Make sure you are clear about your USP. If quality is your thing, don’t sacrifice this for lower prices. Make sure your customers understand why your products are worth the price. If value for money is your chief appeal, make sure that you are still competitive and think of ways you can offer even greater value.

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Tools You Can Use There is a whole tool box of marketing activities you can use to keep on getting your name out there. Here are some ideas to consider.

of whom are offering recession-busting deals on flyers and leaflets. Consider using the flexibility of digital print to personalise your mailers and tailor content to different audiences.

Local press advertising Depending on your business, this is often one of the most straightforward and effective ways you can reach your audience. The readership of printed newspapers is declining, but the local freebie that plops onto the doormat every week is how many people source local tradespeople. Or why not try the free community magazines that are delivered door to door?

Brochures and leaflets Good quality, well-designed publicity material can help you promote your products and services and convey a strong image of your brand values.

Direct mail Direct mail and leaflet drops are a great way to reach lots of potential customers at low cost. There are some real bargains to be had from local print shops, many

Make design work for you Does your logo need a face lift? Are your colour choices stuck in the ‘80s? Take an honest look at your image and decide whether it really gives the best impression of your business. Refreshing your image could pay dividends. Networking Many of us dread networking events: exchanging business cards and making

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Corporate social responsibility An impressive sounding name for what is basically being a good neighbour. Look at ways your business can contribute to the local community. If you have some budget, then sponsoring the kit for a local youth football team could be a good way to promote your brand. If money is tight, donating time and expertise to local voluntary groups could be an option. Staff will enjoy the opportunity to give something back and you will be able to demonstrate your commitment to the community. Remember…. small talk with strangers. But done well, networking can be effective. Choose the events you go to carefully – will they be supported by people who might be interested in your products or services, or will they put you in touch with others who are? Prepare a quick spiel about what you do, gather up your business cards and leaflets, take a deep breath and go for it. And remember, when you make a connection, follow it up. Why not start your networking at one of the Arun Business Partnership quarterly meetings. Social networking sites The popularity of social networking sites continues to grow. Tools like Facebook and Twitter are new channels you can use to promote your messages and generate awareness of what you do. Internet marketing Make sure you are exploiting the potential

Get the professionals in You may want to do your marketing inhouse to save money, but not everyone is a good copywriter or a great designer. Badly written or badly designed marketing materials could damage your image. So be honest about your skills, and if you can’t do it in-house, get the professionals in. If you can’t afford to employ an agency, check out local freelancers who can typically offer an excellent, personal service at a good price. Evaluate, evaluate Someone once said: “Half the money I spend on advertising is wasted; the trouble is I don’t know which half.” Try to measure the success of what you do. Simple methods like quotable reference numbers on adverts or flyers can help you track the source of new business and find out what works.

Top Tips For Recession Busting Plan a strategy Don’t leave success to chance. Examine your company’s strengths and weaknesses, review the market, find out what your competitors are doing. Get as much business intelligence as you can and use it to plan your strategy for success. Stick to the knitting Focus on what you do best and keep on doing it. Highlight what makes your products or services different, better, or the best, and tell people about it. Manage your finances In uncertain markets, cash is king. Keep the cash flow healthy by getting your invoices out on time and chasing up late payments. With banks cutting lending, you don’t want to be going cap in hand to the bank for cash to keep you solvent while you wait for money to come in. Build customer relationships Look after your existing customers. Think about ways that you can enhance your service to them and help them to ride the storm. You may not be able to reduce prices, but can you find other ways to make your service stand out? Keep your staff happy Announcements of job losses are bound to make staff insecure. Keep motivation and enthusiasm high by showing you value their commitment.

Editorial kindly supplied by Diana Stow, Point Clear Public Relations www.pointclearpr.co.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

21 THE MAGAZINE

MARKETING

of your own website and look at low cost innovations that could make your site stand out. A blog could generate interest or controversy that gets your name known, or how about posting information on your website that could make it a destination site for people seeking advice and guidance on purchasing products and services like yours. Review your website – is it easy to navigate, is it clear what you do, does it make it easy for customers to get in touch and find out more?

BUSINESS CORNER

Recession

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The Show

must go on

RISK ASSESSMENT

BUSINESS CORNER

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

crime, fraud or data loss? Any of these events could disrupt normal day-to-day business and damage your reputation with customers, suppliers, employees, shareholders and other stakeholders. Assessing risk There are two main types of critical incident to consider: (i) Those arising from the nature of the organisation (such as handling dangerous chemicals or other hazardous occupations). (ii) Unpredictable events, acts of god, external threats (such as terrorism, fire, flood). Your risk assessment process should consider the main risks that might affect your business and how you should assess and monitor these to spot potential danger.

orrifying images of flooded businesses in the Lake District town of Cockermouth last year will have sent a shiver down the spine of many small business owners. Ruined stock and uninhabitable premises left businesses counting the costs and were a stark reminder that dramatic events like flooding can destroy a business in just a few short hours. Whilst the Lake District floods have been described as a ‘one in a thousand years’ event, other disasters happen more frequently, and all businesses need to take steps to protect themselves against the unexpected. However, according to the Chartered Institute of Management, more than half of businesses and organisations don't have a business continuity plan for

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dealing with unexpected events. Public sector organisations are more likely to have a plan (62%) but this drops to 40% in the private sector (Business Continuity Management Report March 2008). Businesses and organisations without a critical incident and business continuity plan could be leaving themselves wide open to major financial loss and damage to their reputation if the unexpected strikes. Could your business keep trading if: • The power supply or IT systems failed? • Buildings or transport systems were destroyed by fire or flood? • There was a temporary or permanent loss of large numbers of staff or key individuals? • Your reputation was damaged by

Planning is key Once you have assessed your risks, you need to draw up a plan detailing how you would manage the immediate impact of a critical incident. The plan should cover the roles and responsibilities of key staff and the resources you would need to keep on trading. The plan should look at relocating to alternative premises, finding additional temporary staff and communicating with your stakeholders. It should include your strategy for backing–up data, managing finances and dealing with any legal or regulatory issues. The plan should also consider staff training requirements. Once you have drawn up a plan, it is vital to test and review it regularly, and update it to take into account any changes in your operating practice.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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BUSINESS CORNER RISK ASSESSMENT

Some special concerns • Loss of data: most businesses hold their data electronically these days and could not survive for long without access to data sources. Have you taken adequate steps to back-up your data off-site and could you access those back-ups in the event of systems failure? And don’t forget, it is not just the office systems that need to be secured. Many companies now carry large amounts of data around on laptops that are not backed up. Theft of a company laptop could lose you valuable data and compromise customer security. Your critical incident plan should include policies for data back-up, data protection, secure storage of confidential data and

policies for the safe disposal of data. • Swine flu: the threat of a large-scale outbreak of swine flu continues to pose a risk, especially to small businesses. The NHS is advising people with swine flu symptoms to stay off work and school. This means that you could face significant staff shortages, not just through staff illness, but also as a result of other staff taking time off work to care for sick or elderly relatives. Could you manage with a reduced staff team or would you need to find temporary staff in a hurry? Don’t forget, a swine flu outbreak could also strike at your customer base and disrupt supply chains. Contact the Swine Flu Information Line 0800 1 513 513 for the latest updates.

Don’t delay……. It makes sound business sense to invest time now in critical incident planning to ensure your organisation could survive a crisis. Planning for effective critical incident management could protect your business and its reputation, improve your processes, enhance your business performance and save you time and money. So don’t delay: being well-prepared could mean the difference between surviving a critical incident and being forced to shut up shop for good. Further information Chartered Institute of Management: www.managers.org.uk

Editorial kindly supplied by Diana Stow, Point Clear Public Relations www.pointclearpr.co.uk WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

25 THE MAGAZINE

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The Aldingbourne Country Centre has many attractions; our delightful tea room offers home cooked lunches, light snacks and cream teas; our shop displays a wide variety of locally made crafts and produce including our very own furniture, restored on site; wood recycled products; freshly grown organic vegetables; bedding and herbaceous plants, herbs, and creative artwork from our creative arts studio.

• The NO CHORE Radio Store • • One call does it all! •

We are pleased to be home to “The Magic of Mushrooms” a local craftsman John Cole, who creates enchanting garden features, all handmade from wood. Visit his website to see the true “magic” he brings to each and every piece he creates. www.themagicofmushrooms.com

• Licence free PMR446 radios • Low cost licensed radios – complete packages supplied

Stroll through our peaceful woodland walk and enjoy the local wildlife within its natural setting.

• All major manufacturers supported

Our conference room and cabin room are available for hire for training, meetings, exhibitions, wedding receptions, and special occasions with catering and refreshments available on request.

• Lone Worker • Free advice and coverage surveys • Special event radio hire – extra radios for sports day etc.

We are open Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm Weekends / Bank Holiday 10am – 4pm We are closed during Christmas and New Year.

• 27 years of experience

Tel: 01243 542075 weekdays Tel: 01243 546032 weekends Email us at info@aldingbournetrust.co.uk Or visit our website www.aldingbournetrust.co.uk The Aldingbourne Country Centre, Blackmill Lane, Norton, Chichester, West Sussex PO18 0JP The Aldingbourne Trust

Charity No: 276484

Premier cleaning solutions

Flooring Carpet Cleaning Specialists • Planned maintenance cleaning programmes • Restoration cleans/deep cleans • Free on-site demonstration

Phone: 01903 713074 Fax: 01903 726069 Email: sales@stscomms.co.uk www.stscomms.co.uk

The largest display of crafted memorials in the area Shripney Road, Bognor Regis,West Sussex. PO22 9PJ Tel: 01243 867005 Fax: 01243 586964 E-mail: info@stonesafe.co.uk Web:www.memorialstonecentre.co.uk

Memorial Refurbishment

Office Cleaning • dusting/ vacuuming emptying bins etc • Regular cleans / one off cleans • all staff fully vetted Unit 1 5 Bedford Street Bognor Regis West Sussex PO21 1SD Tel: 01243 861100 Mob: 07771 755192 e-mail: info@pcs-uk.co.uk

Opening Shortly New Memorial Showrooms Terminus Road Chichester MEMORIAL INSTALLATION: STONE-SAFE Probably the best fixing system in the country

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

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STRESS IN THE WORKPLACE

BUSINESS CORNER

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

What is the Real Cost of Stress atWork? S

tress at work is a major issue for UK employers. According to the Health and Safety Executive, stress-related problems are one of the most common causes of absence from work. In 2008/09, an estimated 415,000 people in Britain who worked in the last year believed they were experiencing work-related stress at a level that was making them ill (Labour Force Survey, HSE). Estimates from the Labour Force

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Survey suggest that self-reported, workrelated stress, depression or anxiety account for an estimated 11.4 million lost working days in Britain. Some professions and jobs report higher levels of stress than others. These include nurses, teachers, and customer service workers. Some professional and managerial groups also report high levels of stress. But stress is not confined to traditionally high stress environments: any worker can

experience stress if their working environment is not well managed. All managers should look out for signs of stress in the workforce. Examples include high levels of staff absence, high staff turnover, poor performance and workplace conflict. Effective management of stress in the workplace has significant benefits for business. Employees who are not stressed perform better, and are more productive

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

What should managers do? All employers are legally required to ensure the health, safety and welfare at work of their employees under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. This includes minimising the risk of stress-related illness or injury to employees. Managers should ensure that they are monitoring stress levels adequately and taking steps to address causes of stress. It is a good idea to appoint someone with specific responsibility to deal with issues relating to stress and all organisations should draw up policies outlining their approach to stress management.

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The big six The HSE has identified six factors that can lead to work-related stress if they are not managed properly. These are: 1. Demands Can employees cope with the demands of their role? Do they have the skills and training they need to do their job? 2. Control Do staff have a say in the way they work? Can staff be given more responsibility for managing their workload or timetable? 3. Support Have staff got the information and support they need to do their job well? 4. Relationships Bullying and harassment at work are a major cause of staff stress. Organisations should promote a culture of fairness and equality and ensure that they comply with legislation on equality and discrimination. 5. Role Do staff understand their role and responsibilities and how their job fits with the bigger picture? 6. Change Make sure staff are consulted on and involved in organisational change and give them opportunities to participate in decisions about change. Taking steps to address these six factors will have a huge impact on levels of stress at work. And don’t forget to involve staff in making changes that will improve their working conditions. Work-life balance Managers also need to be aware that

stress may be caused by factors outside work and should try to support employees whose personal life is affecting their work. For many people, achieving an appropriate work-life balance can be a constant juggling act. Looking after a young family or elderly relatives whilst doing a full-time job leads to many stresses and strains. Employers should consider the impact of conflicting home and work demands and explore ways of supporting staff. Some ways to help staff achieve a better work-life balance include: • • • • •

Flexible working Childcare services Compassionate leave policies Workplace counselling Fitness programmes

All these elements have a part to play in supporting staff and preventing problems escalating into ill health and absence. Benefits of stress management Companies which manage employee stress effectively are generally more productive with lower costs associated with sickness and absenteeism. Happy and healthy employees have better relationships with their colleagues and managers and engage more effectively with customers. They are motivated to perform well and work hard and contribute effectively to the team and the company. More information Health and Safety Executive: www.hse.gov.uk NICE: www.nice.org.uk NICE Public health guidance PH22: "Guidance for employers on promoting mental wellbeing through productive and healthy working conditions" (2009)

How to recognise stress Symptoms of stress in individuals may include:

Other signs of stress in the workplace may include:

• • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • •

Depression and negative feelings Crying or arguing Loss of motivation and confidence Poor concentration Impaired decision-making Eating disorders Substance misuse Poor sleep patterns Erratic time keeping

Conflict and arguments among staff Increased customer complaints High levels of sickness absence High staff turnover Problems in recruiting new staff Increased staff grievances Low productivity Poor performance

Editorial kindly supplied by Diana Stow, Point Clear Public Relations www.pointclearpr.co.uk WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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STRESS IN THE WORKPLACE

What is work-related stress? The HSE defines work-related stress as: “The adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand placed on them at work.” (Working together to reduce stress at work: a guide for employees HSE 2004). There is a difference between pressure and stress. A certain amount of pressure at work can be productive, inspiring people to be creative, and motivating them to meet new challenges. However, stress occurs when pressure is too great and the demands placed upon people exceed their ability to cope. But stress is not just about overwork. It can also be caused by not having enough work or by feeling bored and undervalued. And when stress becomes too great, staff can develop physical and mental health problems.

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BUSINESS CORNER

and motivated. Whereas in companies with high levels of work-related stress there is increased sickness absence, greater staff turnover, lower productivity and a greater risk of human error.

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DEVELOPMENTS

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS

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Your Partnership, your website, your card T

here have been many considerations taken into account in the development of the Arun Business Partnership website. Naturally, it has to be easy to use. The back-end has to be powerful enough to allow all 5,050 of you to log on at precisely the same time. It needed to be easy to navigate and simple enough to allow even IT novices to upload their information. Having been in development for some months, the website is now in the exciting testing stages and will be released in the next couple of weeks. Ensure that you bookmark www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk now to ensure that you are one of the first online! Businesses across Arun are already signing up to the site as they can see the benefits that it will bring for their business – and this is without it going live! Here, we look at just what the website and associated incentive card will do for you. What is the Business Partnership website? The Arun Business Partnership website allows you to market, promote and shout about your company to the entire Business Partnership and beyond. You will be able to see all of the news from across the area, get involved with events, connect with other local businesses, take advantage of special offers, save money with local suppliers and companies, know about forthcoming meetings and gain access to essential information that you need to run your business. The aim of the Business

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Partnership is to help you to do more business locally; the Business Partnership website is a great tool to enable you to do this. Our motto is – Profit through Partnership! What do you get? Once you have subscribed to the Arun Business Partnership Website, you will gain access to: A Full Business Listing – Ensure that everyone knows who you are, what you do and how you do it with a profile on the Partnership website. You will be able to upload as much company information as you like, including your website link, telephone, fax and email right down to a link showing where you are on a Google map! What services or products do you

offer? What makes you unique? Write it all here, you can even upload your logo and pictures of your team! News – Have you just won an award or a big contract? Are you about to launch a new product or maybe it’s your anniversary? If you have anything to shout about this is where you do it, for free! Events – Publicise your open days or events here! Maybe you have organised a charity event which you would like business to get involved with? Downloads – Ever spent hours searching for forms and documents such as expenses forms or the latest updates to health and safety legislation? Look no further! You will be able to download all the important documents your business could ever need here, for free. Gallery – This is your opportunity to showcase your products, your staff and events and make sure that everyone knows your face! Discount Card – The Business Partnership Discount Card opens up a

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

Magazine Features – Want to know more about an article in the magazine? Read it all here! Publicity – We will be promoting and updating the Business Partnership website on an ongoing basis throughout the local area with our monthly newsletters. By being involved, your company will benefit from the publicity and growth of the Business Partnership.

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How much does it cost? Membership of the Arun Business Partnership website and incentive card will cost just £10 per month by direct debit or a one off payment of £100 (+VAT) per year. The subscription to the website helps fund the site’s development and also puts money back into the Business Partnership to ensure that we can continue to deliver to you FREE Networking Meetings and Business Exhibition

DEVELOPMENTS

Jobs – Need to recruit staff but don’t want to pay for expensive newspaper advertising? Use the jobs listing and publicise as many jobs as you like including the ability to upload application forms and job descriptions.

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range of discounts available exclusively to you. As a member, not only will you be able to save money on the day to day essentials like stationery or printing but also at local restaurants or hotels! You will also receive enough discount cards for you and your staff! Don’t forget every penny spent by your employees with local businesses such as restaurants and shops, helps to boost the local economy! Also update local businesses with your own offers or discounts whenever you like - free!

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With the Incentive Card (ABC Card) you will be able to: • Save money – businesses subscribed to the Partnership website will be uploading special offers and discounts, available only to ABC Card holders! • Promote your company – put your special offers on the Business Website and tell the entire Partnership about what you do and why they need to be doing business with you. • Give a card to all of your employees - every penny spent by your employees with local businesses, such as restaurants, shops and accommodation providers, helps to boost the Arun economy and put more money into your business. It’s your Business Partnership – so use it! A

Links – Search no more for links to funding bodies, business advice services and more. The Business Partnership website will give you a wide range of links to useful organisations that can help your business. Add your own links and recommend others. You can update every piece of information or offers from your business as often as you like from wherever you like! Tell everybody that you’ve moved, change your special offers, put up your latest news and events – you are in control with your own username and password! However we know how hard it is to add another task to your busy schedule – so the membership also entitles you to regular contact from our service team to help you update all of your website content.

For more information on how to get involved with the Business Partnership website and to hear more about what it will do for your business, contact Melanie on 0870 1900 220 or melanie@camcentral.co.uk www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk

A WINNING ATTITUDE PROGRAM of self development empowers individuals to take responsibility for their lives “WHY IS YOUR ATTITUDE SO IMPORTANT” because .... • It affects how you look, what you say and what you do • It affects how you feel both physically and mentally • It largely affects how successful you are in relationships and achieving your goals in life This Program of Character and Attitude development builds people up to ‘believe in themselves’ their capabilities, making them feel significant as individuals, to bring out the best of who they are, making relationships with others easier to handle. We offer a tailored service to suit your company budget and needs with the main focus on the specific self development of your staff.

Call us for a chat on 01243 542864 or email: info@awinnigattitude.com Website: www.awinningattitude.com

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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LOCAL BUSINESS

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Going for Growth W

ith a new chairman and a business plan that includes investment opportunities for external investors, Claire Love, MD of Arundel-based Local Web Solutions, and sister company LWS Creative, has ambitious plans for growth in the next three years. Her eyes are now firmly set on the magical sales figure of £1 million per annum. A Rustington girl, Claire started her sole trader business building small websites from home. Five years later, the team is now eleven strong and based in offices in Arundel. “We've built an incredibly talented team of designers, web developers, copywriters, marketers and photographers,” says Claire. “LWS Creative was launched through client demand – a growing number of our web clients told us they loved the way we did business – so could we design their logos, business cards and marketing literature?

The LWS Team with marketing client Sinan Kalan, chef owner of Sylvan Oak restaurant.

They also wanted qualified marketing advice. So now we offer all businesses from start-up to PLCs the full spectrum of design, web and marketing services.” Mike Escott, LWS new chairman, who specialises in business mentoring and securing private investor funding, recognised the growth potential in the business: "LWS is just the type of early stage company that my investment company is interested in: trustworthy management, eager to learn, excellent products and services, empathy with their

clients, and sustainable profitable growth, with high potential returns on investment.” Claire adds: "We are renowned for delivering added value to our 300 plus clients to help them grow their businesses profitably. The next step is to reach out to even more businesses that are already on our doorstep. We want to help them to grow through harnessing the power of digital marketing, creative design and the web. The last five years have been fantastic and we're looking forward to the next five. It's a case of fasten your seat belts and watch this space!" For more information please call Claire on 01903 785568, email claire@lws-uk.com or visit www.lws-uk.com

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THE MAGAZINE 32

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Fontwell Racecourse New Premier Grandstand

Construction work on a new Premier Grandstand at Fontwell Park Racecourse and Conference Centre near Arundel is now well underway The £6.5million project will create a three-storey building with twelve private hospitality boxes, a glassfronted hospitality restaurant for 250 people and a multi-purpose hall on the ground floor with new catering and betting facilities. As well as offering state-of-the-art facilities on race days, the Premier Grandstand has been designed for weddings, banqueting, conferences

Cars of Littlehampton CARS of Littlehampton, established since 1988, is a friendly family run business that can look after all makes and models of vehicle. This is simply because owner, Martin Bailey, trained with local dealers which helped to build up his knowledge of a wide range of vehicles. CARS has a wide customer base both locally and from Chichester through to Brighton and Horsham. Martin puts this down to their great customer service which includes a collection and delivery service – always a plus when you’re busy. The CARS team like to treat each and every one of their customers as an individual and also promise that their quotations will be fair and honest – sounds good already! read more...

and exhibitions. Race meetings will continue to take place during the construction period. The new Grandstand is scheduled to open for the Ladies Evening race meeting in August 2010. Fontwell Park General Manager Phil Bell said: “This development will be a superb addition to the leisure and business entertainment facilities along the South Coast. “We have experienced excellent sales growth in the last five years particularly with race day hospitality, weddings and conferences. Attendances at our evening

To find out more phone 01243 54 33 35, email: info@fontwellpark.co.uk or visit: www.fontwellpark.co.uk.

Premier Cleaning Solutions Premier Cleaning Solutions (P.C.S) of Bognor Regis have 20 years’ experience in domestic, commercial and industrial carpet cleaning. The Problem Conventionally carpets and hard floors are cleaned when they begin to look unacceptable. When cleaned the floor will probably not return to its original appearance: over time the floor’s appearance can deteriorate and require premature replacement. The Solution P.C.S believe the key to achieving optimum cleaning performance from a carpet/hard floor is correct monitoring & maintenance. P.C.S have a specialised dry cleaning carpet

service, which leaves your carpets clean, fresh and dry, enabling you to walk on your carpet straight away. P.C.S take pride in their work and promise to deliver the best job possible to the highest standard. P.C.S also deliver specialised cleaning of 100% wool carpets, complete hard floor care, and treatments for marble, terrazzo, rubber, laminates and vinyl floorings. P.C.S have an impressive commercial customer base as carpet and upholstery cleaners, including the likes of the Ministry of Defence, Air Traffic Control services, various insurance companies and Initial to name a few. read more...

01243 861 100. info@pcs-uk.co.uk

For more information call: 01903 732200. WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

33 THE MAGAZINE

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LOCAL BUSINESS

and weekend fixtures are also on the increase. “The construction of a new Premier Grandstand means we can significantly expand our business. Our aims are two-fold, to make Fontwell Park the best small racecourse in the country and also create a premier conference and wedding venue.”

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

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Stock Blinds

QUALITY, STYLE & EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

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Come and visit our new showrooms at

Stock Blinds 38 Bedford Street, (next to Morrisons) Bognor Regis, West Sussex Tel: 01243 863091 e.Sales@stockblinds.wanadoo.co.uk Web: www.stockblinds.co.uk

Member of CITB 98/1157/9

• • • • • •

G Allen & Son

Builders & Decorators Est 1969

Extensions Loft Conversions Alterations & Conversions Decorating Insurance Work Repairs & Maintenance

Your Recommendation Is Our Reputation

Home: 01243 864037 Mob: 07768 113949 Freephone: 08009552717 19 Scott Street, Bognor Regis

Working with HMP Ford Opportunities to work with HMP Ford including business and non-commercial work. Current workshops including injection moulding, laundry, horticulture, and waste management. Also employment and work experience placements for offenders who are seeking to prepare for release back into the community. For more information about our forthcoming employers’ days, please call

Tel: 01903 663160 - business. 01903 663215 - placements.

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Staying In(n) Comfort…

Friendly, local and inexpensive, Bognor PC Doctor specialises in supply, installation, faults and repairs for home PCs, networks, broadband, wireless connections and wifi console configuration. The company has recently expanded, opening a brand new training and network PC centre at their shop at 101 Felpham Way, Bognor Regis. Since 2003, Bognor PC Doctor has been highly recommended on the consumer information service Checkatrade. To date, they have received 152+ feedback submissions from consumers like you, with almost 100% positive feedback. They are also approved members of the West Sussex Trading Standards ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme. Bognor PC Doctor has been

The team of staff will always endeavour to look after their guests and go that extra mile to ensure your stay is pleasant. To try the Comfort Inn for yourself, call the team on 01903 840840. nominated twice for Small Business of the Year in the last five years, by Observer Business Awards and Arun Business Awards. Bognor PC Doctor can also provide inexpensive website design and publishing, including effective SEO (search engine optimisation), one-to-one training and help and advice on PC

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

Did you know? Ferring Nurseries site is one of the sites where ‘Worthing Tomatoes’ were grown? read more...

To find out more contact Ferring Nurseries on 01903 241122 or visit: www.ferringnurseries.co.uk/ purchase, set up and configuring of email and internet. read more...

For more information and advice for your PC needs, contact Pierre Towers on 01243 855755 or email admin@bpcd.co.uk. www.bpcd.co.uk.

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PC Problems… ?

dial telephone, large baths and showers and hairdryers. The Comfort Inn has easy access throughout making it a welcome choice for any guests with walking problems or those who may have overdone the walk through the South Downs! The hotel is equipped with a fully licensed motor sport-themed restaurant and bar, great for a quiet coffee with a friend or colleague. Begin the day with a full English breakfast overlooking beautiful countryside or a three-course dinner in the evening in the Stirling's Restaurant (open seven days a week).

Palms, Tree Ferns, Bamboos, Yuccas, Olives, Cordylines, Japanese Maples, Box, Yew, Grasses - the list is endless. If you are searching for top quality architectural plants and topiary, look no further than Ferring Nurseries. We grow a wide range of seasonal bedding plants in our own greenhouses to ensure top quality. For beds and borders, troughs, containers or baskets, there’s always something special to make your garden glow with vibrant colour. We also supply fruit and vegetables for the allotment holder or greenhouse gardener. Our small and vibrant team goes that extra mile to ensure that the finest landscaping and town flower displays are pruned to perfection, covering Worthing to Crawley, Upper Beeding, East Preston, Ferring, Angmering, Littlehampton and Rustington. Ferring Nurseries have had a key role in floral displays for many of Rustington’s ‘In Bloom’ campaigns, such as South & SouthEast In Bloom, Britain in Bloom and the National Floral Awards.

LOCAL BUSINESS

Looking for a venue to hold a conference or business meeting? Playing host to an important business event and on the lookout for somewhere for your clients to stay? Do you have an overflow of family and friends visiting, with not enough room to accommodate? Then stay in comfort at the Comfort Inn Arundel. The Comfort Inn is conveniently positioned between Arundel and Littlehampton close to the A27 and A259. The hotel boasts spacious conference facilities, allowing your important meetings to be held away from the office, free of interruptions. The Castle and Duke of Norfolk Suites are the perfect size for grand scale events, accommodating up to 35 delegates, while the Goodwood and Fontwell Conference Rooms are ideal for smaller meetings. A full-day conference room hire includes coffee and tea on arrival, mid morning coffee with Danish, a hot and cold buffet, pads and pens, photocopying and fax services, as well as TV, video and flip chart hire. Wireless Internet facilities are also accessible 24-hours a day, so you can stay in touch. The hotel provides free and ample parking (for up to 50 cars) giving you one less thing to worry about. With 53 bedrooms equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, the Comfort Inn is perfect for clients and relatives. All the hotel bedrooms are spacious and wellequipped with televisions with Sky, a direct

Ferring Nurseries

REVIEWS

LOCAL BUSINESS

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

Innovate Your Garden Garden Innovations was founded in 1996, and has established itself as the leading UK manufacturer and supplier of affordable, practical, water-saving devices and systems: all of which are highly efficient and environmentally friendly. Peter Field explains: “Like many small businesses, Garden Innovations first worked from a makeshift office at our family home. We started with a dream to change the way UK gardeners water their plants, and at the same time reduce the huge volumes of water wasted throughout the world by the continued use of hoses and heavy oldfashioned watering cans. We constantly strive to innovate and develop practical, water-saving products which greatly benefit both the gardener and the environment in which we all exist. “Innovation has been the key to our modest success. We recently moved from a small factory unit to a new and much bigger unit in Rustington. We are fortunate to be surrounded by many great, local businesses, and we are gradually utilising more and more of their talents and services.” read more...

To find out more about Garden Innovations, contact the team on 01903 859100, or visit www.gardeninnovations.co.uk

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Frame of Mind Frame of Mind is an independent Community Interest Company working in association with Sussex Partnership Trust. We help hard to reach, socially excluded adults with mental health issues/learning disabilities who are often overlooked by mainstream employers. Our community has a real need for this service. Many of our trainees from Chichester, Bognor Regis and Selsey live in areas that are in the top 10% of wards nationally for occurrences of mental health illness. Trainees make their own way to Frame of Mind either by bus, walking or cycling. They learn picture framing and general business skills in a real business

environment. As their confidence grows they become more active members of their community, moving onto volunteering, education and employment. Recovery is at the heart of everything we do: we want our trainees to once again take part in everyday activities that many people take for granted. Our aim is to make a real and lasting difference to the lives of local people in Chichester, Bognor Regis and the surrounding areas. read more...

For more information contact Frame of Mind on 01243 828066 or visit: www.frameofmind.uk.com

Part of the business community Ford Open Prison in West Sussex contributes to the local business community through its many visitors, the goods and services it buys and its on-site business partnerships. The prison runs a number of incomegenerating workshops where offenders can gain employment qualifications and help to produce goods for sale, commercially or for the internal market. For example, it grows over 500,000 plants, trees and shrubs per year on the 118 acre site, supplying every other prison in the country and tendering for local contracts. The plastic injection moulding workshop produces face bowls, mugs and other goods for the internal market and 300,000 plastic sections for British Legion poppies every year. DHL runs a warehousing and distribution workshop on site at HMP Ford supplying goods such as

toothpaste and sugar to offenders. Offenders who work there can gain an NVQ. In the prison kitchen and staff mess, offenders can work towards food preparation and health and hygiene qualifications, often using produce grown by other offenders. Each workshop helps offenders develop employment skills and a work ethic to prepare them for release. Those who find sustainable employment after release are far less likely to re-offend, reducing the costs of re-offending and enabling them to contribute to the public purse as taxpayers. read more...

To find out more about business opportunities with HM Prison Service, contact Jason Errington on 01903 663160 or 01903 663166.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Get Inspired • Healthy workplace tournaments – football, rounders, stallball etc • Corporate fitness classes • Tailored fitness programmes and nutritional advice • Corporate membership options With corporate memberships starting from as little as 88p** per day, employees can enjoy unlimited use of our state-of-the-art Tone Zone fitness studios, fitness classes and swimming

during public sessions. Memberships cover activities at both Littlehampton Swimming and Sports Centre and Arun Leisure Centre, and provide excellent value for money. read more...

For further information on our healthy workplace initiatives or corporate memberships please click on www.inspireleisure.co.uk or contact us on 01903 731689.

* Source: Sussex Sports Website ** Based on our Inspire Premier Corporate Advance Saver Plan. Minimum member requirements apply to be eligible for the corporate membership scheme.

10 years‘ON FIRE’! SPECIAL OFFER: To celebrate 10 years’ of trading in 2010, IFAST would like to offer all readers of The Business Magazine 10% off any course booked this year. In 2010, Independent Fire & Safety Training (IFAST) Ltd celebrates 10 years’ of

providing local and national businesses with solutions to fire safety issues and related matters. IFAST is a local business employing six staff. Gary Tompsett, Director of IFAST, looks at the importance of good fire safety precautions for your business.

Investment versus cost “Businesses large and small often see fire safety as a cost rather than an investment and say staff are too busy to attend courses,” says Gary. “Most fires are preventable and many are caused by human error, so training staff in fire safety is a good investment to protect your business. “Regularly maintained fire extinguishers and fire alarms, staff training and regular fire drills all help a business to continue trading successfully. Our courses cover the theory and practical aspects of fire safety and precautions, fire safety policy and fire risk assessment to help protect your business,” Gary explains. read more...

For further information on IFAST’s services please call 01243 553868, email: gary@ifast-online.co.uk or visit: www.ifast-online.co.uk WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

Fenton I.T is delighted to announce the launch of its new website – www.fentonit.co.uk. With the help of web design agency Nvisage, our new website really represents our core values of being a friendly, trustworthy and reliable IT services provider, that considers customer satisfaction to be its number one priority. Up until now, we have relied mainly on word of mouth from existing ‘happy customers’ to build our client base. Indeed, feedback from many loyal customers is featured throughout the new website. However, our new website uses Search Engine Optimisation to build our web presence. In future, anyone searching for ‘IT Support Sussex’ on a site such as Google will find Fenton I.T listed, and be able to click the web link to view our new site and details of our services. Fenton I.T provides a full range of IT services, from support to consultancy projects such as new server installations. read more...

For more information call 0845 603 9726, email: info@fenton-it.co.uk or visit: www.fenton-it.co.uk

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absenteeism and staff turnover, and reduce the costs of overtime, sick pay and temporary staff cover, as well as recruitment and re-training costs. Here at Inspire Leisure we provide a number of solutions to assist in making your workplace an active and healthy one, including:

LOCAL BUSINESS

As your local, leading, not-for-profit leisure provider, here at Inspire Leisure we are pleased to manage a number of leisure facilities across the Arun District, including Littlehampton Swimming and Sports Centre, Arun Leisure Centre, The Windmill Entertainment Centre and a host of outdoor recreation sites. We aim to inspire the local community to participate in cultural, art and sports-related activities and seek to provide a diversified range of facilities, activities and services to meet the needs of the local community. It has been reported that physically active employees take 27% fewer days of sick leave*, which can ultimately translate to huge savings. Introducing an Active & Healthy Workplace programme can drive down

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L. Guess

Family Jewellers Since 1940

Antique & Modern Jewellery Bought & Sold Watch, Clock & Jewellery Repairs carried out In our own workshops on the premises Full Valuation Service Using On-Line Appraiser System

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We can help you provide fire risk assessments, supply and maintain fire equipment and ancillary equipment such as safety signs. Our core business is fire training and we can also conduct fire drills.

FREE ESTIMATES & ADVICE

Staff Training

REGISTERED VALUERS & MEMBERS OF NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GOLDSMITHS

Engineer Training

56 High Street l Littlehampton l Tel: 01903 724392

Fire Extinguishers

Fire Risk Assessments

Hose Reels Fire Blankets Servicing Signs First Aid Training Ancillary Equipment

Here are a few of our clients: ASDA L BP L Fred Perry L Spinnaker Tower L Wentworth Golf Club L WHSmiths

Call Ifast on 01243 553868 visit www ifast-online.co.uk or e.mail enquiries@ifast-online.co.uk. Gary Tompsett can be contacted directly on 07947867621

holidays and homes

Property Sales and Rentals Agents Needed by local company for

International Property Sales and Rentals including our Flagship Development located in an Expedia Top 5 Tour Destination!

Cost effective design solutions to help your business move forward If you are thinking of reviewing your business identity and stationery or producing new marketing material such as brochures, advertising, exhibitions, display graphics or website then please call 01903 788 700 to see how we can help you.

E : desi g n @ w o o d ma n d e si gn .co.u k W: w w w.w o o d ma n d e si g n .co.u k

019 0 3 7 8 8 70 0

Attractive Resorts - Attractive Prices - Attractive Commission. Share in our Success 345 properties sold in 2009! Add another Income Stream to Your Existing Business or Start a New Business Full Time or Part Time. Individuals and Club/Society Members Welcome. Little or no financial investment required and Full Local Support from our Littlehampton office. Properties suitable for Holidays, Rental Income and Investment (including SIPP/FPT) Contact Anthony on 01903 733006. Email: anthony@holidaysandhomes.com Holidays and Homes Littlehampton â&#x20AC;˘ West Sussex 19 Years Experience in International Property

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Just Wood Flooring Jewellers

For more information contact Just Wood Flooring on 01243 827 888 or visit: www.justwood.co.uk

Income Opportunities for Agents... Holidays and Homes are International Property Agents, based in Littlehampton and in Spain, with villas and apartments for sale in Spain, Cape Verde, the Canary Islands, Portugal, and Turkey. The company are on the lookout for more referral agents to share in their success. Full support is available through our Littlehampton office including product familiarisation, marketing materials and website creation. The resorts are all in areas attractive to the holidaymaker as well as the investor who wants to see capital growth and/or rental income.

Our flagship development is an Expedia Top 5 Resort, with annual growth of 15% and rental income conservatively estimated at 9.4%. These properties are also suitable for purchase using a SIPP or FPT so will be of particular interest to referral agents working in the financial sector. Share in our success!

L. Guess Jewellers, Littlehampton 01903 724392

For more information contact Anthony on 01903 733006. Email: anthony@holidaysandhomes.com. www.holidaysandhomes.com

Welcome to the Middleton Sports Club Situated in an especially beautiful and unrivalled setting in the village of Middleton-on-Sea, Middleton Sports Club has nearly 800 members, with ages ranging from 5 to 95. Some members play sport at a high level, others enjoy playing just for fun and the benefit of enjoyable exercise, and there are many who just prefer the social scene. Member privileges include: • A very comfortable and well-equipped clubhouse overlooking the sports field and cricket green.

• Large flat screen Sky TV for viewing sporting events. • An excellent restaurant. • Regular social events and themed party nights. • The ability to hire, at a very reasonable rate, a function room for private parties. • 10% off all bar drinks on presentation of membership card.

conference facilities, please phone 01243 583517. Corporate members enjoy all the privileges of social membership.

For more information, for example about corporate membership and private hire of

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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REVIEWS

In the past 18 years, Just Wood has worked for royalty, national landmarks (like the Tate Gallery), laid floors for celebrities, and even put the floor down in a squash court in the Bahamas. And the business is still growing!

L. Guess Jewellers have established an enviable reputation for the finest quality ranges of gold and silver jewellery, diamonds and giftware. They take great pride in the high number of regular and returning customers who trust the quality, value and reliable service they offer. You don’t buy jewellery every day, but when you do, it is usually a special occasion. So whether you are having a piece of jewellery commissioned, a specialist repair carried out, or choosing a special gift, customers know that at L. Guess they will always receive the very best customer service. This is backed up with the wealth of knowledge and experience that you would expect from a family-run business of three generations. GOLD RECYCLING. Recycle your scrap Gold for £ CASH £.

LOCAL BUSINESS

Just Wood Flooring specialises in all aspects of hardwood flooring, from renovation and refurbishment of old floors to fitting new, state-of-the-art floors. Just Wood’s extremely high standards of skilled workmanship, commitment and years of experience make them one of the best choices for your hardwood floor. Just Wood prioritises quality and customer care, and uses independent third party Checkatrade to evaluate its work and customer service. On completion of a job, the client is asked to fill in a form and the results of these surveys are posted on the Checkatrade website. Just Wood now has well over 740 testimonials on Checkatrade, with 100% of clients saying they would recommend them.

REVIEWS

LOCAL BUSINESS

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

Design firm’s big on boosting businesses Can you imagine a more diverse set of clients – dental practices, loft converters, florists and accountants? But Worthing-based XL Design has revitalised these businesses. XL Design was founded over 10 years ago and is headed up by Clive Spring, whose design pedigree goes back 28 years, and although the company works for clients all over the UK, Clive says: “We’re keen to build up business in the South.” And they’re so confident they can help any client, XL Design offers a FREE brand and marketing healthcheck. “So, if you’re so involved in running a business you can no longer identify the best direction for branding and marketing, we’ll look at all those issues and work out the profitable opportunities, such as through advertising and cross-selling. This gives clients incredibly robust insights, which can then easily lead to new business.” Armed with that information, if companies then want XL Design to create a website, leaflets etc… it’s the easiest of steps, but there is no obligation. “Don’t take our word for it though,” says Clive. “We live by what our customers say and above all we offer London quality of service at local prices.” read more...

Find out more at: www.xldesign.co.uk

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Women’s Enterprise Across the South East, a project is taking place to improve the help available to women considering starting up their own business. It is called the South East Women’s Business Service, or SEWBS. Emma Drew is the West Sussex Women’s Business Adviser, employed by Business Link. She works with women on a one-to-one basis, offering business advice, one-to-one meetings and training. Emma Drew comments: “Only 13% of UK businesses are led by women, a figure which has changed little in decades, and is only half the rate of places like the US and Sweden. In Arun district, the rate of new business startups by men or women (at June 2008) was a third lower than the south east average and, similarly, a low number of households are involved in even thinking about starting a business – at less than 5%.

But we know that women are growing as a group of entrepreneurs, and that they have a better than average chance of succeeding when they do decide to take the plunge. In times like these, women need to feel confident and supported in helping grow the economy of the Arun area. I am very happy therefore to be able to offer, through Business Link, free oneto-one support to women at the early stages of thinking about and building a business or social enterprise. SEEDA, the regional economic development agency and Business Link’s funders, have identified that targets agreed in 2000 for women’s involvement in business have not been met, so there’s a job to be done!” To find out more contact: emma.drew@businesslinksussex.co.uk

We don’t remember days... we remember moments Upfront Events is a small but wellestablished company that specialises in hosting key events. With a wealth of media and public communication experience and a passion for motivating audiences, Upfront Events goes that extra mile to make your event run smoothly. The company caters for large or small events, offering a high quality, professional service and a range of bespoke services to meet individual requirements. Event co-ordinator Keith Croft has over 30 years’ experience in planning and holding events for clients such as The Body Shop, Worthing Bears, Sussex County Cricket Club, Creative Memories and the Littlehampton Town Centre Action Group. He can orchestrate the entire event, from marquees and catering to staffing and promotion, or provide individual elements such as a bar facility, disco or race night. Whatever the occasion, Upfront Events will make your budget stretch and take away the worry.

For a helping hand with your next event call Keith on 01903 726760 or 07932 176051, or email: info@upfrontevents.co.uk.

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WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Look and Sea What’s On Offer

The Lock Centre is truly the ‘one-stop shop’ for all your security requirements. Our product range includes: security alarms, CCTV, access control, full locksmith service, safes, security lighting, automated gates, steel doors, shutters for windows, garage doors and commercial window gates and grilles, key cutting and shop sales. We are also a member of the Buy with Confidence scheme run by Trading Standards. The Lock Centre is celebrating 25 years in Bognor Regis and will be offering all existing and new customers great deals over the next twelve months to celebrate. Company owners, Mr and Mrs Sean Maginnis, are proud of the long-term management and staff that have made such a dynamic company within the security industry and Arun district. They are also proud of the large customer base that they have built up over the years. NSI NACOSS GOLD installer in the Arun area.National Security Inspectorate.

Whole or part of the centre is available for private hire, please call 01903 718984 for details.

For more information call 01243 829427, email: info@thelockcentre.com or visit: www.thelockcentre.com

Stone-Safe We would like to inform our clients that we have been and will continue to fix memorials to the highest standard. The Memorial Stone Centre takes the safety issues of memorial installation very seriously given the number of deaths and injuries from unstable memorials. Stone-safe leads the field for peace of mind in memorial stability and safety, arising from personal experience and extensive research. The traditional lawn memorial is often placed on disturbed ground on a shallow concrete base, and does not ensure stability of the memorial in poor soil conditions. The Stone-safe stability system is not just a conventional concrete slab with

The Stone-safe system has for two consecutive years won the National Phoenix Award for Memorial Safety. The system has been rigorously tested by Professor Moy at the University of Southampton (Department of Civil Engineering) and certified as capable of withstanding a 250kg plus force. Stone-safe has raised concerns about the safety of traditional methods of fixing lawn memorials and is working with Bramm (British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons), to review British standard 8415 in order to raise safety standards. read more...

ground anchors, but a state-of-the-art system designed to meet all safety requirements.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

For further details call 01243 867005, info@memorialstonecentre.co.uk, www.stonesafe.co.uk.

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The Look and Sea Centre at Fishermans Quay in Littlehampton has many interesting things to offer. It is home to the official Visitor Information Centre, which also has its own gift shop featuring many original items not to be found elsewhere locally. There is the Heritage Exhibition, with interactive displays concerned with the history of the river and surrounding areas, and the 360 degree viewing tower with spectacular views over the harbour and from Worthing to Goodwood. The first floor Conference Room can accommodate up to 60 guests, is fitted with Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a projector, and can be hired for all occasions from corporate meetings to birthday and anniversary parties. Harbour Lights Café and Restaurant is very popular with locals and visitors alike, who all love the sensational views over the harbour and the glorious riverside patio. Breakfasts served from 8.30am every day, followed by lunches, daily specials and evening meals in the summer. All the menus are available to view on the website www.lookandsea.co.uk

LOCAL BUSINESS

One-stop shop for security

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Access – by Design

REVIEWS

LOCAL BUSINESS

A.J. Parker As an independent MOT Centre established for over fifteen years in Bognor Regis, A. J. Parker Vehicle Services has built up a large and loyal customer base, repairing all makes and types of vehicles. As well as manufacturers recommended servicing schedules, you will get tailor-made servicing to suit your mileage and driving needs. A.J. Parker Vehicle Services’ fully trained technicians are equipped to carry out diagnostics, general repairs and welding. Together with timing belt fitment and brake overhauls they will give you very competitive prices to fit batteries and exhausts. Did you know that it is recommended for most air conditioning systems to be serviced at least every twelve months? Our fully automated equipment will enhance the operation of your air conditioning and make the components

last longer. We offer a free, local collection and delivery service and free courtesy vehicles (when available). Fleet management services are available for business customers, including premaintenance inspections to keep your fleet legally up-to-date and fully serviced. read more...

For more information, a free estimate, or just to book your vehicle in for some professional attention, please telephone A.J. Parker Vehicle Services on: 01243 841969.

MP opens Aldingbourne Trust resource centre The Aldingbourne Trust was delighted to welcome local MP Nick Gibb to officially open ‘Number 64’, the Trust’s new resource and drop-in centre at 64 High Street, Bognor Regis. The Aldingbourne Trust is a local charity which supports adults with learning difficulties to gain greater independence and develop skills leading to employment opportunities in the community. Number 64 is the new home to the Trust’s creative arts studio, recruitment service, outreach services, supported living and residential services. The centre will also provide a drop-in centre where people with learning disabilities and their carers and/or representatives can pop in for information on services within their community, have a cup of tea and meet people. There is also a conference room available for hire. Why not drop by and see for yourself? A friendly, warm atmosphere awaits you. Sue Livett, Managing Director for the Trust, said: “This is a progressive step forward for the Aldingbourne Trust, as we are now in the heart of the community and more accessible to the clients we support.”

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The Trust also runs Aldingbourne Country Centre, just off the A27 near Fontwell. At the launch, Nick Gibb MP commented: “I had previously visited the Aldingbourne Country Centre while I was campaigning and I found it very impressive, especially the furniture restoration department and the craft service. Aldingbourne is a worthwhile cause and it gives me great pleasure to be here today and I now declare this centre well and truly open." For more information phone Michelle McKinley Bell on 01243 542075 (weekdays), 01243 546032 (weekends). You can also email: info@aldingbournetrust.co.uk or visit: www.aldingbournetrust.co.uk

Access – by Design is a small, but fast-growing, web design company based in Birdham, near Chichester. The company is three years old and has already enjoyed considerable recognition as finalists in the Chichester Observer Business Awards 2008 and finalists in the Sussex Business Awards for 2008 and 2009. At Access – by Design we pride ourselves on offering a personal service to all of our clients. Each client has a dedicated designer who creates a unique website to suit the client’s individual needs: from ecommerce solutions to blogs and forums, not forgetting logo design, graphic design and printed material, all produced in-house. Access – by Design creates websites to be totally controlled by the client after launch. The client can make unlimited changes and additions to the content and images used on the website ensuring that it will always be up-to-date and working as hard as possible to bring in business. This not only eliminates expensive maintenance fees, but regular updating, together with our fantastic SEO package (which comes as standard), ensures that our websites can often reach the first page of Google within days of being launched! The aftercare package we offer as standard is second to none, with bespoke training sessions given to every client, a post-launch review and an annual review thereafter, and amazingly detailed site statistics to make sure that the client is aware of how the website is performing and whether improvements can be made. All of our websites can be further enhanced by adding shop facilities, blogs, forums, newsletters etc at a later date. Every website is rigorously checked to ensure that it performs faultlessly on all platforms, from mobile phones to netbooks to HDTVs and adheres to stringent web accessibility guidelines ensuring that anyone can access the information regardless of the technology they use. To find out more phone 01243 514454, email: info@access-bydesign.com or visit: www.access-bydesign.com

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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approach and fresh image was needed to reflect the changes. We can offer a unique service now – delivering anything, anywhere, at anytime – which is why we have grown by 10% in the last year.” The pink colouring is in sharp contrast to RS Couriers’ brand new services that are truly green. Their ECOCOURIER relies on co-loading to maximise vehicle efficiency, cutting carbon emissions and potentially distribution costs, by 50%. Finally, saving the planet can save you ££££ too!” read more...

Why not find out more at www.reallygoodcouriers.com or call on 01243 829222.

Stockblinds - Superior Window Furnishings

To find out more contact Thermofloor Southern on 01243 822058 or visit: www.thermofloorsouthern.co.uk

Stockblinds is a family run business based in Bognor Regis. The company was founded 20 years ago by Stuart Bacon. Stuart has been in the curtains and fabric business for over 30 years and, together with his son Alistair, he ensures that the widest range of quality, made to measure blinds is available to the people of Sussex and beyond.

The company specialises in conservatory and outdoor blinds, but also supplies and fits awnings and canopies, made to measure curtains, fabrics, metal and wooden Venetian blinds, vertical blinds, plantation shutters, blackout and fly screens. It also specialises in remote control blinds - for those eager to impress – and is an agent for ‘Somfy’ motors and controls

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

for blinds and awnings. Stockblinds has been approved on Checkatrade for 10 years with exceedingly positive feedback. Being a main dealer for Luxaflex and Sunway, it is definitely a company you can trust. Stockblinds offers an exceptional standard of workmanship, which is both friendly and efficient. The father and son team will go that extra mile to ensure you can access the highest quality products at a most competitive price. They are extremely reliable, courteous and a pleasure to do business with. read more...

For more information call Stuart on 01243 863091, or email sales@stockblinds.wanadoo.co.uk. www.stockblinds.co.uk

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It’s the new year and a new look for RS Couriers. Acquired by Diamond Logistics they welcome in 2010 with a new name and new image – now coming under the brand of Diamond entirely. Retaining all the familiar faces, voices and couriers, the team remains exactly the same, as do telephone numbers and location in Bognor’s Durban Road Industrial Estate. The bold, new logo will soon be seen on all their vehicles and a new marketing campaign will launch their new face. Kate Lester, MD, explains the reasons for the change: “RS had a great historic brand in Arun which is why we were thrilled to acquire them in 2007. Our service offering has now expanded so much we thought a fresh face, fresh

ThermoFloor Southern has successfully supplied and installed its award winning underfloor heating and cooling systems for over 20 years. The company specialises in design, supply and installation, and has the capability to provide full design services with CAD drawings from its West Sussex headquarters. ThermoFloor installs warm water underfloor heating and cooling systems in buildings ranging from small domestic extensions, through large multi-million pound domestic properties to commercial premises such as showrooms, hotels and schools. It is particularly well-known for installing underfloor heating in historic buildings and churches. ThermoFloor’s customers include construction companies such as AMEC, architectural practices such as Foster & Partners and The Wilmot Partnership, consulting engineers such as Gifford & Partners and WS Atkins, as well as builders and self-build home owners.

LOCAL BUSINESS

RS Couriers go Diamond

ThermoFloor Southern

REVIEWS

LOCAL BUSINESS

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An Invitation from Newbarn KIA Hello, my name’s Roger Joy, and I am the dealer principal at Newbarn KIA. I know from talking to customers that many were unsure at first about testdriving a KIA. After all, we in the UK are known for being reserved when it comes to trying out something new, even if it does turn out to be better than we imagined and an improvement on what we currently drive. Without exception, all were impressed with what KIA has to offer – especially the warranties – 7 years/100,000 miles in the case of the Venga, Cee’d and Sportage. So I thought I would take this

opportunity to introduce you to the models that are the KIA family by inviting you, the next time you are in Bognor Regis, to drop in to our showroom at 65 Aldwick Road and discover for yourself why the KIA brand is going from strength to strength. read more...

For more information phone 01243 841 200, email: sales@newbarncars.com or visit: www.newbarnkia.co.uk

Local, state-of-the art waste recycling Times are hard for many businesses and there’s never been a greater need to reduce cost and improve efficiencies. At Arun-based SCS Waste Management we know this only too well, and are no different to many of the businesses throughout the district. Our company looks to support the regional economy wherever possible, by employing our staff and purchasing/procuring supplies at a local level in the hope that it will help sustain other local businesses. Most of our major competitors are foreign owned, which means that your money leaves the region and is not reinvested back into the local economy. We offer the full range of dry waste collection services including Skip, Roll On-Roll Off, Wheelie Bin, Rear End Loader (Mobile Compaction) and waste recycling services. All waste is transported to our treatment/recycling facility located just outside Littlehampton, where it is processed through our state-ofthe-art waste plant for maximum recycling/re-use. You

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don’t need to segregate waste on your site – we do it at ours. This means you don’t need multiple or variable containers on your premises for waste segregation, and can be assured that your company will meet its obligations under the pre-treatment of waste regulations imposed on the 31st of October last year. read more...

We offer some of the most competitive rates for our services, and don’t tie our clients into long-winded, hard to get out of contracts. For more information and/or a no obligation quotation, please contact our sales office on 01903 734056 or email: sales@southcoastskips.co.uk.

Planning for the future beyond the recession? In today’s economic climate there is much for business managers to worry about every day, leaving little time to think and plan for the future. Performance Effects is a local management consultancy practice, specialising in assisting SME companies in the UK and abroad. Having spent many years at the sharp end of business in international markets, this small team of experienced industry professionals understands the pressures facing managers today. The team offers a broad range of services focused on providing practical business solutions to day-to-day business problems while recognising the need to plan for future success. Core services include Strategic Business Planning, Performance Improvement, Business Development and New Market Entry, creating value through identifying key performance gaps, improving performance, developing new ideas and positioning companies for a sustainable future. “Our USP is advice AND implementation support,” says David Smith, Senior Partner. “In fact, we thrive on ‘getting our hands dirty’. We do not believe in simply advising companies what they should do…we work alongside their people to help develop and implement their improvement programmes.” For independent practical support, consider Performance Effects. David adds: “We are confident our contribution can add value to your business for the long term.” read more...

For further information – www.performanceeffects.co.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Dan Bridger Jewellery

and nails. The hand sanitiser will kill 99.99% of all known germs and bacteria within 15 to 30 seconds. 4. Clean and sanitise hard surfaces, such as door handles, more regularly. 5. Wear a disposable face mask near other people known to have been infected. “And remember,” says Neal: "Good hygiene is important all year round – not just when winter flu viruses strike.” read more...

For free posters, information or details on swine flu prevention products for the workplace, contact Direct Hygiene & Workwear on 01903 731122

For more information, contact Garry Briaris on 01243 585615. Mobile: 0771 863 4378. Email: Garry@gbas.co.uk Web: www.gbas.co.uk

View my portfolio and visit my blog site for feedback and comments at: www.danbridgerjewellery.com. Email:

Swine flu, the winter vomiting bug Norovirus, and seasonal flu all have the potential to spread rapidly in the workplace. Small businesses can struggle to keep going when staff are off sick, so employers should ensure they have adequate hygiene measures in place to prevent the spread of infection.

Top tips to reduce infection 1. Always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. 2. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 to 30 seconds to eliminate 99.99% of all known bacteria and germs. 3. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol or alcohol-free hand sanitisers. Add a small portion onto your hands and rub in thoroughly, not forgetting in-between fingers

Calling All Local Businesses! Do you want to automate your dayto-day tasks, save money and free up precious manpower? Processes that may normally require significant time can be simplified with an easyto-use database system leaving you time to generate more new business. GB Associates specialises in bespoke Access databases that provide costeffective solutions to small and medium sized businesses. The company has worked with an array of clientele, from travel agents and horticulturalists to recruitment companies and engineering firms. Whether you’re a small business or a large national organisation, you can be assured that GB Associates will work closely with you through all stages of design, development, implementation and on-going support. GB Associates not only creates typical CRM systems but also tailormade systems to suit individual needs. Recent projects include an Access database for vehicle load scheduling, order processing and stock, holiday cottage bookings system and an accommodation database to manage short-term property rental to opera artistes! Senior partner Garry Briaris has well over 40 years’ experience in computer systems. He says: “Our mission is to have happy clients by supplying packages that are designed to suit their specific requirements.”

Reduce the spread of germs and viruses in the workplace

Neal Eason, Managing Director of Direct Hygiene & Workwear, says: "The swine flu pandemic spread rapidly because it is a new type of flu virus that few, if any, people have full resistance to. But good hand hygiene can dramatically reduce the spread of infection of swine flu and other known germs and viruses.”

danbridgerjewellery@ymail.com or follow me on twitter as DBjewellery.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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I can visit clients in the comfort of their own home to discuss any commission or special bespoke item in complete confidence. I simply offer a truly unique personal jewellery service and strive to produce unique one-off items. I was contacted by Vogue magazine about a Christmas jewellery feature. They said: “I singled out your business because of the quality of your fantastic collection of jewellery, it is stunning!”

LOCAL BUSINESS

I've been involved in the jewellery trade for around 15 years. I started out as a jobbing jeweller repairing basic jewellery, soldering chains, bracelets and sizing rings. After a few years training I was making fine detailed pieces of jewellery. I also offer a range of engagement and eternity rings for any budget, and designed to client’s requirements, in 18ct, platinum and in other precious metals. A comprehensive repair service is also available.

REVIEWS

LOCAL BUSINESS

The Magazine Issue 8 1-47:Issue 7_Nov 08

Spotlight on Spofforths Spofforths is a forwardthinking firm of chartered accountants and professional advisers. We have been serving loyal clients for more than a century and offer a range of modern accountancy services, with all of the traditional qualities associated with a well-established firm. We are one of the largest firms in Sussex and continually look to develop our exciting portfolio of accountancy and advisory services. Spofforths partners are client-focussed and provide individuals and businesses with advice to see them through the ever-changing economic climate. We offer a friendly and professional service, with a practical and straightforward approach to meeting your financial objectives. Our consultants can explain complex financial issues simply and you can always gain sound advice from our highly experienced team.

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A Winning Attitude Rosie Hamilton McGinty is an international author, speaker and selfawareness success coach. Her compassion, expertise and twenty years’ experience in personal development equip her with the ability to motivate and inspire individuals to advance in all areas of their lives. Rosie believes that one’s character and attitude is the foundation of success. Her desire is to make a difference in the world by developing her ‘A Winning Attitude’ self-development programme. Rosie’s ‘A Winning Attitude’ presentation has been well-received all over the South. Her book currently sells in UK bookshops and on-line stores including i-Tunes, Amazon, Waterstones, Tesco and Asda. She has been featured in national and local newspapers, magazines and on the radio, and was

interviewed for the coaching role on the Channel 4 TV programme ‘Fame Academy’. Rosie is running regular presentations throughout 2010. To sign up for her newsletter visit www.awinningattitude.com and receive a free audio book. Or follow her on www.twitter.com/attitudeguru for regular updates. Rosie’s services include: • self-awareness coaching sessions • 60-90 minute group presentations • 1 day workshops • Books for staff and clients (discount for orders over 100 copies) To discuss your personal or business requirements, please contact Rosie at info@awinningattitude.com or phone 01243 542864 or 07794 326 760.

To speak to one of the firm’s consultants or to arrange a free consultation, please contact us today 01243 787 627 or visit: www.spofforths.co.uk Offices in Chichester, Brighton, Horsham, Storrington and Worthing.

West Sussex Funeral Directors Established in 1850, F A Holland & Son are the West Sussex Funeral Directors. Our experienced staff have helped our clients for many years. We really care about the service that we offer and ensure that we always do our very best for everyone. If anything at all unusual is requested we always pride ourselves on being able to provide the service, provided that it is legal. We are very keen to be part of the local community. In the Littlehampton area, we have recently won the Arun Business Partnership ‘Business in the Community Award’. We are members of the Chichester Chamber of Commerce and we sponsored

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the Carer of the Year Award in the recent Observer Community Awards. We also support Bowls in Worthing, as well as fundraising at Queen Alexandra Home. Over the year, we support school careers events, school, charity and church fetes. We sponsor local art competitions and get involved in carnivals and various local shows. If you do need our services, or just want to call in to meet us, we are situated in Chichester, Bognor Regis, Selsey, East Wittering, Littlehampton, Rustington and Pulborough. We are pleased to meet and support local groups and organisations. We have a presentation which we give to staff

from local nursing homes and hospitals, which can assist them with their qualifications. We offer a pre-payment Funeral Plan; the payment covers the full service requested, whenever this is needed. read more...

If you would like help or advice about any part of our services, please call us on 01903 713939 or 01243 782965.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Advertisers Announcement www.hygieneandworkwear.co.uk

www.earthfriendlier.co.uk

Can you afford to have staff off work? Who Else Wants To Protect Their Staff... Their Customers... From The Devastating Effects Of Swine Flu and Other known germs and viruses? AS THE WEATHER takes a turn for the worse, more germs and viruses are much more easily spread in the work place. It has been reported in the Telegraph recently that GP's have seen a dramatic increase on the vomiting bug Norovirus. They are extremely concerned of a 'double whammy' with the recent Swine Flu pandemic. Because Swine Flu is a new virus, none of us have immunity and everyone is at risk catching it... especially in environments like the workplace. Now you can help the fight against Swine Flu and all other known germs and viruses by introducing the importance of hand hygiene in the workplace with the unique touch-free hand sanitising station. The key benefit being reduced absenteeism. The touch-free sanitising stations also portray a much higher awareness of the importance of good hand hygiene. If you had dispensers mounted on the walls, the chances are that not everyone will notice or use them.

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‘What will I get’? You will get a complete 'Starter Pack' sanitising station which includes the following; ■ 1x Sanitising stand complete with drip tray and heavy base plate. ■ 1x automated touch free dispenser (batteries included). ■ 1x 1000ml refill foam hand sanitiser cartridge that gives you 2500 shots. ■ 1x A4 laminated wall poster with 'Please sanitise your hands'.

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Sanitising station for busy areas

And here are 7 Key benefits of the NEW U-Sol Alcohol-Free foam hand sanitiser... ■ High germ kill rate - Kill's 99.999% of all known germs, bacteria, fungi and viruses (against alcohol based that only kill up to 99.9%) ■ Quick acting - Works within 30 seconds of rubbing into hands ■ Remains active - Remains active on your hands for up to 3 hours (alcohol based doesn't) ■ Kind to skin - Leaves hands feeling conditioned and refreshingly soft (alcohol based leave hands feeling dry and irritated after regular use) ■ Fragrance free - The Alcohol-Free foam hand sanitiser can be used in ANY kind of workplace ■ Safe - The same chemical hazard rating as water! (Alcohol based are highly flammable) ■ Environmentally friendly Contains no alcohol or solvents

Touch-free, contamination-free

Here are 5 Key benefits of the hand sanitising station... ■ Contamination Free - Automated touch free dispensing ■ Extremely economical - Dispenses a massive 2500 shots per 1000ml cartridge ■ Increased awareness - The stations promote and heighten awareness of hand hygiene to everyone ■ Raises company profile - Projects company professionalism and displays pro-activeness ■ Mobile - The stations can be located in any busy areas at work

Ideal for... Schools, childrens nurseries, universities, hospitals, medical centres, doctors surgeries, care homes, hotels, catering, fitness clubs, leisure centres, golf clubs, dentists, airports, offices, restaurants, retails outlets, laboratories, clean rooms and many more... (In laboratory tests on surfaces, U-Sol has been proven to be effective against MRSA, C Diff, E.Coli, Salmonella, Hepatitis B, HIV, Listeria, Influenza A (similar to theH1N1 Swine Flu strain) plus many others, U-Sol has been tested to British Standards EN1276 and EN1650).

Two Easy Instalments! I am acutely aware as a local business myself, we are all having to watch every penny in expenditure in this tough economic climate and that’s why I want to make it as easy as possible for you to afford this genuinely unique offer. The normal list price for the alcohol free hand sanitiser 'Starter Pack' station is £195. As long as you are a local company, based within 20 miles of Littlehampton, you can have the complete kit for just £147! That’s a massive £48 off! And to make it even easier for you on your cash flow, you can pay over 2 easy instalments over the next 2 months. That's just £73.50 (+ Vat) per month! Plus... ■ We will personally come in, fix up the sanitising station for you. ■ Demonstrate how the system works ■ Advise on the area it should be located. And a Bonus gift... If you are quick and one of the first lucky 15 businesses to order, you will also receive our outstanding NEW U-Sol alcohol free Personal Hygiene Travel Pack (worth £13.75 + Vat) ABSOLUTELY FREE! which includes: ■ 1x 50ml foam hand sanitiser. ■ 1x 100ml hand & face wash. ■ 1x 100ml spray surface sanitiser. ■ 1x pack (35) sanitising wipes (can be used on hands & face as well as surfaces). ■ 1x information leaflet.

The whole kit comes in a neat zipped pouch and complies to BAA Hand luggage regulations. Ideal for anyone travelling or commuting and easy to just slip in to your hand luggage, car glove compartment, etc….. 30 Day Money Back Guarantee If for whatever reason you feel the Hand Sanitising Station just isn't for your workplace, simply call us within 30 days on freephone 0800 138 9055 and we will give you a full refund after receiving the equipment and refill cartridge back from you, no questions. And you can keep the Personal Hygiene Travel Pack as a 'Thank you' for at least trying the system out. This will be for a very limited period only because there are only 37 of these stations up for grabs. So order NOW before it's too late. Call us on freephone 0800 138 9055 to place your order. Or you can email us on sales@dhaw.co.uk So with the unique 30 day guarantee and 2 easy instalments you can feel confident to at least give it a try. We very much look forward to hearing from you. (If there are 10 or more stations required, please contact our office for further details on our special low monthly leasing program) Lastly, here's what one of our customers said about the alcohol free, touch free sanitising station recently... "Dear Neal, I just felt compounded to thank you for the sanitising station you supplied. For a company our size it would be catastrophic if we had an outbreak of flu and the insurance this system provides us is astonishing value for just pennies a day. I must say the station itself is extremely sleek looking and the hands free element ensures absolutely no cross contamination whatsoever. I still can't believe how cost effective it works out. Thanks once again". "PS. Could you also pass on my sincere thanks to all your staff. They are always extremely cheerful and helpful and are a pleasure to contact". Grant Marsh, MD IC Solutions Group. Direct Hygiene & Workwear Ltd. Unit 11C, Lineside Way, Littlehampton. West Sussex. BN17 7EH FREEPHONE: 0800 138 9055 Fax: 01903 733813

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Hygiene Travel Pack

Direct Hygiene & Workwear Ltd.

E: sales@hygieneandworkwear.co.uk or sales@earthfriendlier.co.uk

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BR NE AN W D !

The Magazine Issue 8 48-92:Issue 7_Nov 08

24hr delegate rate from only

ÂŁ99

per person

Ocean Spa

Our brand new 200-bedroom Ocean Hotel is at the centre of our Bognor Regis Resort. The contemporary hotel is a relaxing, comfortable and fun place to stay, with extra facilities including the funky Ocean Spa and Kaleidoscope Restaurant & Bar. The bright, modern rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise the stunning views: youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll either be looking out over the West Sussex coastline or towards the gently rolling South Downs, and more than half the rooms have their own balconies.

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*Based on a minimum booking of 20 people on selected dates, price includes accommodation, breakfast, conference room, lunch and dinner, please call 01243 810118 for full details and prices. For full terms & conditions go to butlins.com/terms or refer to the current Butlins brochure. All offers subject to promotional availability Butlins Skyline Limited, 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. Registered in England No. 04011665.

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Each room has a lounge area with widescreen TV and DVD player, and an en-suite bathroom where you can lie back in the bath and enjoy the soothing colour-change lighting or unwind in a rainfall shower after a busy day.

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Introduction

hen an email from Miriam Nicholls dropped into my inbox I thought I was in trouble! How wrong I was: it was to invite me to host the Arun Business Partnership Awards for a second year. I’d been concerned about hosting the first time I was asked as sometimes these things are a bit formal and stuffy, but this year I knew better! It was a treat to see the Grand Hall at Avisford Park Hotel packed with business people all eager to see if they were winners of one of the 17 categories. You could feel the anticipation as each award category was announced and the sponsoring company representative invited up onto the stage to open the silver envelope. Even though there could be only one winner in each category the delight of all those present was obvious when those winners were announced. There were some great stories during the evening of how local companies were not only weathering the storm but even flourishing in these gloomy times. I thoroughly enjoyed my evening with Arun’s businesses and, if you missed it, you missed a real treat. Anyway, have a look at the next few pages: we can’t recreate the great atmosphere, but if you cheer loudly as you turn over each page it might just help!

Arun0110

Kevin King, Spirit FM

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

49 THE MAGAZINE

BUSINESS AWARDS

Partnership Awards

WINNERS & SPONSORS

The Business

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Small Business of the Year Awards Under 5 employees Under 10 employees Over 10 employees

ell over 90% of Arun’s businesses are made up of companies that employ fewer than five people. They are the lifeblood of the local business community, providing employment, producing goods and services and generating wealth. Together, UK small business owners and entrepreneurs add more than £1billion to the country’s economy every year. Success for small businesses comes at a cost: it is not unusual for the owners of small businesses to work more than 50 hours a week. But despite this heavy personal and professional commitment, running a small business remains attractive with many owners saying that being their own boss is a large part of the appeal. With small businesses contributing so much to the local and national economy it is worrying to see many struggling as a

result of the recession. Small businesses can be particularly hard hit when consumers tighten their belts and it is vital that all small businesses work out a strategy for dealing with the downturn. Some key areas that should not be scrimped on are training, marketing and innovation. • Enthusiastic, committed staff are key to the success of any business, but especially so for small businesses, where each member of the team is an ambassador for your product or service. Keeping your employees motivated is vital and providing training to help them develop their skills and fulfil their ambitions can be the key to keeping staff happy and productive.

Sponsor: FSB

Under 5 employees

Winner: Greenpower

reenpower is an organisation set up to promote engineering and design and technology to young people by challenging teams to design, build and then race single-seater electric cars. “Winning the Small Business of the Year (under 5) Award is a great opportunity to raise our profile locally and hopefully get more businesses and schools involved in the projects we are running in the Arun District. We would like to thank all those who nominated us for this award.”

• Marketing should always be a priority. In times of recession the marketing budget can be one of the first areas that is cut, but making sure your customers know you are still actively trading is critical. When the downturn ends, those companies that have continued to promote their brand and carve a market share will be best placed to benefit from new growth. • Innovation and new technology can save you time and money and improve your working practices. Developing your products or refining your services could also give you the edge when recovery comes. Smart thinking could be the key to riding a recession and coming out on top.

“

The FSB represents the small business sector and we feel it is important to recognise the contribution that small businesses make to the local community. Small businesses are not only the backbone of our economy, but it is they who have many of the best ideas over 60% of all commercial innovations come from small businesses.

”

Elizabeth Francis Regional Organiser West Sussex Federation of Small Businesses 01903 740930 elizabeth.francis@fsb.org.uk

Greenpower 01903 715915 www.greenpower.co.uk

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WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Under 10 employees

Winner: Just Wood Flooring

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Adrian Wood Deputy Area Commercial Director Worthing and Brighton HSBC 0845 583 1567

ust Wood Flooring specialises in all aspects of hardwood flooring, from renovation and refurbishment of old floors to fitting new, state-of-the-art floors. Owner Alastair Smyth says he is honoured to win the Small Business of the Year (6-10) Award: “This award is a great accolade and an endorsement of the hard work of our staff. I would like to thank our customers for all their encouraging feedback.” Just Wood Flooring 01243 629780 www.justwood.co.uk

Over 10 employees Sponsor: Moore Stephens Winner: Ferring Nurseries

“

We have sponsored the Awards for the past three years. We are very supportive of local businesses as they underpin the economic fabric of the area and they are the way forward to achieve a sensible work life balance. We believe that the Arun Business Awards allows the spotlight to fall not only on the bigger, more established companies but also on the new start-ups, which are essential to ensure the continuity of the business life cycle. Mike Scott Chairman Moore Stephens 01243 531 600

”

erring Nurseries scooped this year’s Small Business of the Year (over 10) Award. The small and vibrant team go that extra mile to ensure that the finest landscaping and town flower displays are pruned to perfection. David Courtenay Luscombe, partner, would like to thank his staff for their constant dedication. “At Ferring Nurseries we have a small team who pull together 12 months of the year, to maintain the highest standards possible. Everyone is passionate about the plants and attention to detail is key. Our customers deserve 100% commitment and we strive to achieve this. I would like to thank all my staff for their continued support.” Ferring Nurseries 01903 241122 www.ferringnurseries.co.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

51 THE MAGAZINE

BUSINESS AWARDS

“

We are committed to supporting business in the local community. The locally based HSBC Commercial Team of dedicated commercial relationship managers and support staff typically serve owner-managed businesses and professionals in the Arun District and throughout West Sussex.

WINNERS & SPONSORS

Sponsor: HSBC

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New Business of the Year Award

ave you ever wanted to set up your own business but were not sure what it would take or what you would do? If so, then read on. You are going to find some great tips, do’s and don’ts for starting a new business, whether that new business is small and providing you with a little more money, or it is going to be your main source of income, hopefully for years to come. Statistics show that one in four UK adults think about having their own business at some point or another in their lifetime. Reading this magazine probably means you have thought about it or are already running your own business. Here are my five top tips for starting a new business:

3. Plan your finances carefully. Work out all your costs to start up, the costs for running your business and the amount of sales you are hoping for. Do the numbers work out to show you will make a profit? 4. Write a business plan. This will help you think about and plan for all aspects of your business and will include what you have done in points 13 as well as information on marketing your product or service and what you want to achieve with the business.

1. Do your market research. Prove that you are fulfilling a need in your customers. Do they want what you are offering?

5. Get support from a mentor either through Business Link or other support organisations. Research shows that writing a business plan and finding a mentor to support you as you develop your business can really make a difference to you succeeding in your business.

2. Do your competitor research. See who else is doing this and how you can improve on what they do and find out what will make you different.

See www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for information and downloads. Editorial kindly supplied by Gareth Sear, Business Link

Winner:ThermoFloor Southern

hermoFloor Southern Ltd, the underfloor heating specialist, was formed in January 2009 following the shutdown of the Southern branch of Thermo-Floor Ltd. Formed by CEO Ian Hunter it continues to supply, install and design underfloor heating and cooling systems across London and the South. ThermoFloor covers all types of construction including listed buildings, new builds, refurbishments, commercial/private clients and local authorities. Ian Hunter says he is delighted to have won the award and that this recognition will give a big boost to the company and its loyal employees.

Sponsor: The BestWestern Beachcroft Hotel

“

Our decision to sponsor the New Business of the Year Award at this year’s Arun Business Awards came as a result of our appreciation for the determination and drive any new business must possess in order to survive in today's current climate. We believe that new local businesses deserve recognition for their achievements.

”

Phillip Roberts Manager The Beachcroft Hotel 01243 827 142 www.beachcroft-hotel.co.uk

01243 822 058 www.thermofloorsouthern.co.uk

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WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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WINNERS & SPONSORS

Business and Marketing Promotion Award

What’s the Problem? What’s the Hurt? For many of us the problem with marketing is that it just doesn’t seem to be working as well as it could. Typically our clients say things like: • “We don't have a clear view of the future...” • “Our pricing is easily matched/ bettered by our competitors who seem to surpass and outflank us…” • “Too much time and money is spent on sales promotion and we don't know how effective it is...” • “Our so-called ‘innovative’ projects often don't look much different from those of our competitors...” • “A lot is being given away...” What is to be done? 1.Throw away the textbooks. 2. Dig deep to understand why people

Sponsor: JS Humidifiers

“

JS Humidifiers is pleased to be involved in the Arun Business Awards because, as a thriving local firm, we’d like other local businesses to be successful too. Lots of local organisations offer great products or services, but if they can’t communicate what they do successfully with potential customers, they are unlikely to thrive. We believe that success comes from getting the message across to potential customers effectively.

”

Rik Prowen Operations Director JS Humidifiers plc 01903 850 200 www.jshumidifiers.com

BUSINESS AWARDS

should bother to buy from you. If you are the same as the competition then there is no reason why they should buy from you… so what makes you different from the rest? 3. Talk to your customers: a. What do they love about you? b. What do they hate? c. What do you need to get more business? 4. Don’t tolerate contented or satisfied customers – they will leave you. Seek to get customers who love what you do – what would ‘raving fans’ look like for your business? 5. Categorise your clients by profitability – 80% of profits come from 20% of your clients (the law of the vital few)… where can you find more clients with the characteristics of the top 20%? What would

obert Craven from the Directors Centre is an entrepreneurship guru who helps companies face the challenges of growth and develop and implement strategies that improve profitability.

happen if you sacked, say, the bottom 20 or 30% of your clients? 6. Create a focus on client benefits – tell them what they will get if they buy from you and tell them about the benefits (how will it make them feel happier or better off?). Editorial kindly supplied by Robert Craven

Winner: dizzy “

e were obviously delighted to have won this award. Our aim is to get into the community and raise awareness of diabetes and be a successful business at the same time. Winning the Business Marketing and Promotion Award has proven that we have achieved this objective.” dizzy 01903 774777 www.dizzy.org.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Green Business of the Year Award Top Tips for Greening Your Business and Saving Cash!

eing green is important for any business and setting out your green credentials is not just good for the environment, it can be good for the bottom line too. Here are some ideas to consider for your business: Staff involvement. You don’t have to have an environment manager to turn your business green. Most businesses have environmental enthusiasts who can help drive forward ideas. Get staff to form a Green Team. Put up a Green Board so staff can see progress as well as add great new ideas. Have fun. Saving the environment is important but it doesn’t always have to be so deadpan. Hold a company Green Day to explore why environmental issues matter and what can be done. Offer prizes! £50 for the best idea to save the company money can be a most worthwhile capital investment. Find out what other businesses are doing. There may be great green initiatives going on next door whilst you’ve still got your head stuck in landfill! Talk to your neighbours or other businesses in your industry to find out what really works and what doesn’t. By working together it may

also be possible to pool resources and reduce costs for all. Reduce, reuse, recycle. We have already paid for most of the waste we dispose of, so reducing waste can cut costs at both ends. Reduce. Ask your suppliers not to use such oversized boxes and see if they’ll take back empty packaging. It’s a win-win situation, saving them material costs and you disposal charges. Reuse. If that cardboard box is still in good nick, why not send out your finished products in it? Impress your customers with your green thinking. Recycle. Landfill tax is rocketing. You may even pick up a few quid for those old pallets or that vat of old cooking oil! Get on top of your utilities. Do you find your utility bills overcomplicated and full of small print? Do you know what

Winner: Sandfield House

rances and David Farrer Brown ensure that Sandfield House hotel embraces a ‘green’ policy but not at the expense of guests’ comfort and enjoyment. Frances serves home-made, home-grown or local produce, and the bedrooms and bathrooms don’t escape greening either! Sandfield House has a Rainharvester which collects the water and puts it through two filters and ultra-violet sterilisation. The hot water is also heated by solar panels on the roof. Frances says: "Being green is important in today's world. If everyone does a little bit, quantities of little bits make a lot of difference. I’m thrilled to have been given this award.”

CCL* stands for on your electricity bill? And more importantly, why it costs you £50 every month?! Delve into your bills to find quick savings. Look at your supply chain. Put pressure on your supply chain to improve their green credentials. Try to buy recycled products – close the loop and help build green markets. Shout about it! Let people know of your green achievements and win new customers. Consider going for a Green Award, such as the Arun Business Partnership Awards, or a recognised standard, such as ISO14001 or BS8555; increasingly sought by larger firms in the tendering process. Editorial kindly supplied by Rowan Wallis, Partnership Support Officer, West Sussex Sustainable Business Partnership

Sponsor: University of Chichester

“

Being green is increasingly important to the University and an area in which we are making significant investment. We believe that 'green business' is closely related to 'innovative business' and we strive to achieve innovation in our courses, our training, research and consultancy activities. Andy Dixon Head of Research and Employer Engagement University of Chichester 01243 812125 www.chiuni.ac.uk

”

Sandfield House 01903 724129

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WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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WINNERS & SPONSORS

Customer Care Award service always stands out: polite, friendly staff, clear information, and a prompt and reliable service. These features should be at the heart of your business. Treating your customers well should be part of your brand values and be ingrained in everything you do. Remember: • The essence of good customer care is to treat your customers as you yourself would wish to be treated – with courtesy and respect. • Train your staff in customer care so they have the skills to deliver excellent customer service. • Display a customer care charter setting out the standards by which your customers can expect to be treated. • Involve your customers, ask for their opinions and respond to feedback. • Set out a clear complaints handling procedure. • Above all, replicate your successes and learn from your mistakes.

BUSINESS AWARDS

happy, satisfied customer will come back for more and will recommend your products and services to their family and friends. An unhappy customer may never return, losing you valuable revenue. You may think that one or two dissatisfied customers here and there aren’t a problem, but keeping your customers happy could be the key to success or failure. It can be much harder, and more expensive, to find new customers than to continue serving existing customers. And this is never more true than in times of recession, when customer loyalty and an established customer base can help prevent some businesses from folding. You might be surprised by how much each customer is worth to your business. We all know what bad customer care is like: off hand or ignorant sales staff, late deliveries, receiving the wrong order, being left on hold when phoning. All these experiences can put people off using you again. Good customer

Somewhere deep in the Arun district is a customer... yes maybe one of your customers! He’s given us his views on customer cafre. So extreme that we couldn’t print them - but you can find them at www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk

Sponsor: Comfort Inn

Winner:The Creative Woodworking Company

“

For us, customer care is one of the most important factors. Without our customers we are nobody! In our opinion good customer care is when somebody gives much more than the customer expects. Congratulations to the Creative Woodworking Company for demonstrating this.

”

Mr. Mansour Operations Manager Comfort Inn 01903 840 840 www.comfortinnarundel.com

he Creative Woodworking Company (TCWC) was set up by the owner Simon Ward, a recognised Master Carpenter & Joiner. TCWC is building on firm foundations - 40 years’ experience gained from working in the industry, including training others in the crafts of carpentry and bench joinery and furniture crafts. Simon says: “Customer satisfaction has always been at the heart of the company... I would like to thank my customers for their encouragement and positive feedback, this feedback has enabled us to develop and maintain a true customer focus throughout all our commissions.” Creative Woodworking Company 01243 837442 www.tcwc.co.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Website of the Year Award Why Would I Want a Website?

ll businesses - old, new, big or small can benefit from a well designed, interactive website. The internet is increasingly the first port of call for consumers. In fact, more than 20 million shoppers are now online, purchasing everything from books, clothes and computers to cars, holidays and life insurance. Marketing experts predict that the number of online shoppers will almost double in the near future: can you afford to miss out on this massive consumer base? Even if you’re not planning to sell online, a website acts as a further extension of your business. Think of it as a salesperson working around the clock for you, allowing people to access your products and services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week without leaving the comfort of their sofa! Communicating online can also be a lot less expensive than traditional media. Of course there are set-up costs, but there are no print costs and you have unlimited space to upload information. But, alas, to many of us the internet is not as rosy and trouble-free as it seems.

So here are some tips to get you started: 1. Keep it simple Remember the website is made to be used by the general public, not just the company. The first page most visitors will hit is your homepage, so make sure it sets out clearly who you are, what you do and how to contact you. Don’t be tempted by flashy graphics that deter from your overall message. 2. Finger tapping, head scratching frustrations The majority of people online are looking for information, and they want it fast. Imagine you have five seconds to entice your customer - if your site takes too long to load or is riddled with unhelpful links people will click the back button and search elsewhere and voila, customer lost. 3. Out with the old and in with the new Still have events on your site dating back to 2005? Be honest! Regular updates can dramatically improve your hits per month, and your presence on search engines. 4. Branding, branding, branding Try to embed your logo into your website design; it makes your company look global and grand scale even if it is small.

Winner:The Beachcroft Hotel

hil Roberts, manager of the Beachcroft Hotel, says: “We are extremely honoured to have won for the third year in a row. In order for any business to survive in today's current economy it is vitally important to maintain a good electronic presence. We see over 50% of our room sales coming from electronic marketing channels, which can give you an idea of how crucial getting online marketing is for us, and how crucial it could be for your business.” Beachcroft Hotel 01243 827 142 www.beachcroft-hotel.co.uk

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5. Social networking sites – time wasting or a marketeer’s dream? While students might seem to make up the majority of Facebook users, businesses are increasingly finding value in these sites. Not only can the various profile features and applications help to traffic people to your site, but embracing such a common tool in many consumers’ lives opens your business up to a vast amount of customers. It also shows that your company is modern, up-to-date and willing to move with the times. 6. www.co(m)fusing.com It’s actually better to have no website at all than to have one riddled with spelling mistakes and errors. A website reveals to the world how professional you are, it either says: “Our business is efficient, dynamic and fantastic which is why we have decided to tell you about it with this great website”, or it screams: “We are unprofessional, illiterate and just as slow as this homepage!” Final thought: in order for your business to grow and flourish, it is vital to grab every marketing tool possible - and websites are one of the most up-to-date, cost-effective and accessible.

Sponsor: Dragonfly Design and Print

“

As a digital print company we believe that websites are the shop windows of the modern age and fundamental to the growth of any business, which is why we are honoured to able to sponsor the Website of the Year Award at this year’s Arun Business Awards Ceremony.

”

Antony Cleall Dragonfly Design and Print 01243 866 060 www.dragonflydesign.co.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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WINNERS & SPONSORS

Disability Awareness Award

Sponsor: F A Holland & Son

“

F A Holland & Son feel very privileged to be sponsoring the Disability Awareness Award again. We realise how important it is that everyone has equal opportunities in life and are glad that those who help those with disabilities to lead as normal a life as possible, are recognised. We are an important part of the local community and feel that of all the awards, this is the most important and the one which we wanted to sponsor.

”

colleagues without any, or with very few, adjustments being made. Any necessary adjustments are usually low cost and many are free. There's help available too from Access to Work which will help pay for equipment, travel and other forms of support. The Access to Work grant is up to 100 per cent of the approved costs for someone who is starting a job with you. If you don't employ disabled people, your workforce is not reflecting your customer base. One in four people in the UK are either disabled or have a direct link to disability. 5 By having a diverse workforce, which includes disabled people you are better placed to know your customers and therefore achieve success. Editorial kindly supplied by Anna Borthwick, Head of Business Development, DisabledGo

BUSINESS AWARDS

isabled people contribute to success. In a small business, there is nowhere to hide. More than half a million disabled workers currently work for successful small businesses. 1 9 out of 10 SME employers believed that disabled employees are just as productive as nondisabled staff. 2 At DisabledGo we have disabled and non disabled employees and everyone adds value to our organisation bringing personal experience and knowledge. As a business it is crucial that you are employing the most talented people who can help your business grow. There is often a misconception regarding disabled people and employment. There are approximately 3.4 million people with a disability or longterm health condition working in the UK and over 1.3 million disabled people want to join them! 3 So to attract the most talent to your organisation it is important that everyone is seeing your vacancies and feels their application will be welcome. Making reasonable adjustments so that a disabled person can bring their talents to your organisation costs a lot less than most people think. On average costs are less than £76. 4 Many disabled people work alongside their non-disabled

Notes 1 'Towards Inclusion - Civil Rights for Disabled People' Annex 3, Department of Works and Pensions. 2. Small Employers' Attitudes to Disability. A survey of 1,000 small employers in Britain conducted by Opinion Research Business for the DRC. 3. UK's Office for National Statistics’ Labour Force Survey, 2009. 4. 'Impact on Small Businesses of lowering the DDA Part II threshold', Disability Rights Commission (DRC), 2001. 5. UN and World Bank

Winner: dizzy “It’s amazing as a Social Enterprise to have been given mainstream recognition. Our judging peers have recognised our efficiency as well as our charitable aims and objectives which are to raise awareness of diabetes.” dizzy 01903 774777 www.dizzy.org.uk

Torquil Morgan F.A Holland & Son 01903 713939

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Our Company would like to work with more local suppliers and companies.

B U S I N E S S PA R T N E R S H I P

Y R

A WA

Winner

2008 R

B U S I N E S S PA R T N E R S H I P

A Y

Visit our website and then call us www.garden-innovations.co.uk

2007

A WA

Winner

Unit 7, Brookside Business Park, Brookside Avenue, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3LP Tel: 01903 859100 E: info@garden-innovations.co.uk

Fine Art Trade Guild.

Frame of Mind (Vocational Training) Community Interest Company

17 Arun Business Park, Shripney Road Bognor Regis, West Sussex PO22 9SX T: 01243 828066 | E: theresab@frameofmind.uk.com

www.frameofmind.uk.com

I BUS

20 09

RT N E S S PA

BUSIN

Frame of Mind is a member of the

All work is completed to the highest standard at a price you would expect from a non-profit making organisa on.

TEL: 01243 629780 MOBILE 07860 881905 FAX: 01243 826568 MOBILE: 07860 861904 www.justwood.co.uk info@justwood.co.uk

We oﬀer the following picture framing services: • High quality framing of photographs and all types of artwork. • Boxed frames, specialist services available such as football shirt framing and other memorabilia. • Bulk cer ficate orders for colleges etc., remoun ng of exis ng pictures and replacement of glass or perspex. • A wide variety of conserva on mounts and mouldings available for you to choose from. • High quality photo prin ng onto fine art papers and canvas.

THE OLD RANGE, MEAD LANE, BOGNOR REGIS, WEST SUSSEX PO22 8AP

A W

Winner

ERSHIP

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WINNERS & SPONSORS

Commitment to the Business Partnership Award

BUSINESS AWARDS

he Business Partnership is looked after by Arun District Council’s Economic Development Team. They look after the day-to-day running of the Partnership and the various events that go on during the year. But that couldn’t happen without a tremendous amount of input and goodwill

from local companies. That might be by way of offering us meeting venues or giving up time to sit on the Steering Group that runs the Partnership. It might be referring people to the Partnership or even providing small amounts of funding for projects and events. As a famous supermarket says – “every

little counts” - and when it’s the Arun Business Partnership that’s certainly true! Each year the Partnership Award is presented to the person that has given just that little bit extra towards making the Partnership the success it is. Miriam Nicholls on behalf of the Partnership team

Sponsor: Winner: Richard Drake St Modwen Development Ltd and Nicki Nuttal, Barclays St Modwen were delighted to sponsor the Commitment to the Business Partnership Award. We have been working in partnership with Arun District Council for over three years in seeking to drive forward the regeneration of two major town sites. During this period we have always recognised the strength of the local community and the role its businesses play in shaping the overarching vision. Local businesses have an integral role in the growth of the local economy and we therefore are delighted to be able to offer our support.

“

”

Tim Seddon, London Regional Director St Modwen Developments Ltd 020 7788 3700 www.stmodwen.co.uk

“

e are delighted to have won the Commitment to the Partnership Award. The Partnership has gone from strength to strength over the years, and we are proud to offer our support. We are honoured to have been given this recognition, and welcome another great year with the Arun Business Partnership in 2010.”

01243 226 013 richard.j.drake@barclays.com

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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BUSINESS AWARDS

WINNERS & SPONSORS

the

Awards

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP AWARDS

Business in Education Award Working Together

and varied and not always obvious. As well as raising the company’s profile within the community and providing free marketing opportunities, those getting involved have said they have a great time supporting students in developing the skills they wish they’d had as a teenager – including those essential to running a business such as risk taking, teamworking and leadership.

ight across the UK, local businesses, schools and colleges are working together to benefit young people, business and the future economy. The West Sussex Education Business Partnership (EBP), which recently achieved the prestigious Award for Education Business Excellence, works to develop these vital links, helping local young people get better prepared for work and giving employers the opportunity to influence the development of their future workforce. Jacqui Scerri, Education Business Partnership Coordinator for Worthing, Littlehampton and Adur, has lots of experience in bringing business and education together in innovative ways and is passionate about what she does. “I’ve been involved in many projects ranging from employers providing case study materials to spending the day with nearly 400 students working with local business people to develop their entrepreneurial skills. It’s great to see how businesses can help bring learning to life, inspire young people and give them a real insight into the world of work. And business volunteers benefit too. They enjoy

Editorial kindly supplied by Jacqui Scerri, Education Business Partnership taking part for different reasons – including the fresh perspective young people can bring to a business challenge – their energy and enthusiasm is infectious!” Businesses can get involved in a range of ways to suit their interests and availability including: hosting students and teacher industry visits; providing problem solving challenges and creative projects; providing advice and support for mock interviews; hosting work experience students; becoming e-mentors; helping teachers plan vocational courses and even developing business based resources for the classroom. Benefits to the business are numerous

Winner: Arun Control Systems

run Control Systems is a systems integrator producing control and monitoring systems for process and manufacturing industries in the UK and abroad. “We were very pleased to get involved in helping the Littlehampton Academy with their exciting foray into control programming as part of their ICT course. We were able to present some of our real life experience to the students and some different perspectives to the course subject - where it applies to industrial applications, who uses it and how to start a career in this field.” Steve Harris Arun Control Systems 01903 739253 www.aruncontrolsystems.co.uk

THE MAGAZINE 60

Sponsor: Education Business Partnership (EBP)

“

The EBP is all about supporting our young people to be prepared for the world of work. We can't do this without the valuable contribution given freely by local business. We are privileged to recognise this by sponsoring this award.

”

Jacqui Scerri Education Business Partnership Co-ordinator 01903 703562 jacqui.scerri@westsussex.gov.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Recruitment Providing training and development will help you attract and retain skilled staff. Indeed, some recruits rate investment in

Sponsor: Northbrook College

“

The college fully understands how important staff training is to developing a successful business, and the impact this has upon efficiency and effectiveness. Northbrook College has a dedicated Business Development team to help businesses take advantage of all the skills funding available in the region. Our unique and responsive business development process is flexible to ensure downtime and disruption to existing business operations are kept to a minimum, especially when delivered in the workplace setting.

”

Anne Feldberg, Business Development Manager, Northbrook College 01903 60 62 64 www.northbrook.ac.uk

their training and development as more important than salary and may even choose jobs which provide training and career development above those that pay more. Performance Training and development helps to ensure that your staff have the skills and qualities they need to perform their job well. It can improving working relationships within teams and increase co-operation so that staff perform better and are inspired to succeed. Studies also show that training has a positive impact on productivity. Morale Staff who feel valued through training and personal development will feel happier and less stressed. This will improve morale, cut sickness rates and help to reduce staff turnover. Investment in training and development increases job satisfaction and reduces stress by helping people feel confident that they can do their job well and meet

the requirements of their role. Innovation Training can keep your staff and company at the forefront of developments in technology and systems. New skills and methods of working can improve productivity and ensure that work is performed safely and effectively. Developing management and leadership skills will improve the way your organisation functions and can lead to innovation that will benefit the company in many different ways. A learning organisation Promoting a learning culture also provides a positive image of your organisation to both staff and customers. It demonstrates an organisation that is willing to learn and take on board new ideas, not just within a formal training environment, but also through other routes such as responding positively to customer feedback. Can you afford not to invest for success?

Winner: Frame of Mind

rame Of Mind helps hard to reach socially excluded adults with mental health issues and learning disabilities who are often overlooked by mainstream employers. Their training approach means that they do much more than just train people in picture framing, as Theresa Bates explains: “We challenge people’s expectations of themselves and help them to achieve many things they would have thought impossible before they joined us. “It is a pleasure to be given this award, and it has really shown that our training efforts have paid off. This award clearly recognises all the hard work and progress made by all the staff, trainees and volunteers at Frame Of Mind." Frame Of Mind CIC 01243 828066 www.frameofmind.uk.com Email: theresab@frameofmind.uk.com

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

61 THE MAGAZINE

BUSINESS AWARDS

Invest for Success Investing in the training and development of your workforce will improve staff performance and ensure you provide a high quality service to your customers. All employers should ensure that they meet statutory requirements for training in their sector. However, there are many other forms of training that, although not mandatory, can be hugely beneficial to the company and individual staff. Customer service, line management, communications, IT skills, leadership and so on: training in all these areas and more has the potential to make a big impact on the way your company performs. But we all know that training can be overlooked when the going gets tough. So why should you continue to invest in training and development even in difficult times?

WINNERS & SPONSORS

Training and Development Award

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BUSINESS AWARDS

WINNERS & SPONSORS

the

Awards

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP AWARDS

Sussex By the Sea Tourism Award

espite the British weather, the many tourist attractions of the south coast continued to draw in visitors last summer. And the ‘staycation’ effect of the recession benefited many tourism businesses across the UK. Advance figures gathered by Tourism South East indicate that bookings for holidays in England in 2010 and 2011 are also strong. Statistics gathered by Tourism South East directly from businesses across the region show that visitor attractions, camping/caravanning, and self-catering

businesses all benefited in 2009 from cost-conscious households holidaying at home, with many businesses enjoying a record breaking season over the summer. The weekend domestic leisure market was also bolstered by the ‘staycation’ trend. Camping and caravanning were particular popular amongst cashstrapped Brits with higher levels of bookings reported across the South East. Visitor attractions across the region also reported brisk trade over the summer months. Admission numbers rose by 20% or more for some attractions. Behind these headlines, however, lies a rather mixed picture of business performance for the tourism industry. For many visitor attractions across the region an increase in admissions hasn’t necessarily led to a like for like increase in profits. Price sensitivity among

Winner: Butlins

Editorial kindly supplied by Tourism South East www.industry.visitsoutheastengland.com

Sponsor: Garden Innovations

Bognor Regis has always been popular with families looking for a traditional seaside holiday and is still one of the nation's favourite destinations.

“

We are delighted that Butlins took home the award and I’m sure their new conference centre will be a top venue for local businesses. Garden Innovations is justly proud of our committed Arun District Council, the Arun Business Partnership and the surrounding local business community.

Jeremy Pardey, Resort Director, Butlins Bognor Regis, said: “We are extremely proud and delighted to win this prestigious award as it is testament to the truly wonderful guest experience my team provides. Billy Butlin said ‘our true intent is all for your delight’ and this continues today.”

”

To find out more about what Butlins in Bognor Regis can offer, not only for your family holiday, but your next conference or business meeting, call 01243 822 445 or visit: www.butlinsevents.com

THE MAGAZINE 62

consumers has necessitated promotions and offers. Nearly all report that ancillary spend in gift shops and catering is down. For some, increased volume has been achieved at reduced levels of profitability. However, there is much to be optimistic about, and with so many attractions to lure holidaymakers, the tourism industry in the South East can look forward with anticipation to 2010.

Peter Field Managing Director Garden Innovations 01903 859100 www.garden-innovations.co.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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WINNERS & SPONSORS

Healthy Workplace Award

Sponsor: Arun District Council

“

Arun was given the award in recognition of the work it has done to introduce healthier work practices, particularly over the previous 12 months.

”

For more information about the Arun Wellbeing team visit: www.arun.gov.uk/wellbeing

of key areas employers should consider: • Workplace health and safety: ensure compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act. • Recruitment policy and sickness absence management: assess the costs of sickness absence in your business, develop a sickness management policy and provide return to work support. • Work-related stress and mental wellbeing: assess work-related stress and take action to address problem areas. • Musculoskeletal disorders (back pain and joint injuries): do risk assessments of work processes and review methods of working. • Stop-smoking support: provide information about local stop-smoking services. • Alcohol and substance misuse policies: provide information and access to support and counselling. • Physical activity: encourage staff to walk or cycle to work and consider negotiating discounted gym memberships. • Healthy eating: provide healthy

BUSINESS AWARDS

Healthy Workplaces The workplace is a key determinant of people’s health and wellbeing. Poor workplace health can have major costs for individual employees and employers leading to high levels of sickness absence, whilst a healthy workplace can increase productivity making staff more motivated and committed. The figures are compelling: 29.3 million working days were lost overall in 2008-09 due to ill health (that equates to 1.24 days per worker). 24.6 million days were due to work-related ill health and 4.7 million to workplace injury (source: Health and Safety Executive). In the South East alone, there were an estimated 4.9 million working days (fullday equivalent) lost due to workplace injury and work-related ill health. These levels of absence have huge costs to industry and hit small businesses particularly hard. You can use the HSE Ill-Health Costs Ready Reckoner to find out what employee ill health is costing your business: http://www.hse.gov.uk/costs/index.asp It is in everyone’s interests to promote a healthy workplace. Here are a number

options in the work canteen. Above all, employers need to develop a culture of good health to safeguard and promote employee wellbeing. In this way, staff absence can be reduced and staff who are unwell can feel supported to return to work. More information Health and Safety Executive: www.hse.gov.uk Department of Health: www.dh.gov.uk

Winner: Arun District Council Ian Sumnall, the Council’s Chief Executive, accepted the award on the night with Hannah Brooks and Carrie Reynolds from Inspire Leisure, which provides leisure services for the district, and Sue Carmichael from NHS West Sussex. Ian said: “Having a healthy workforce and supporting and introducing initiatives that help staff help themselves lead healthier lives offers positive benefits to all involved. Businesses benefit from a reduction in sick days, increased efficiency and an improved reputation. Individuals benefit through improved health, better access to services and reduced risks of disease in the future; and the NHS benefits from a future reduction in demand for healthcare services.” Arun District Council 01903 737500 www.arun.gov.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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RENT TO BUY www.ownyourown.co.uk

High Quality Business/Warehouse Units For Small Businesses

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Take a short term lease with an option to buy the freehold at any time during the lease and you can decide when the time (and mortgage rate) is right for your business to buy!

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OYO LITTLEHAMPTON Arndale Rd, BN17 7GA Units between 1,252 sq ft and 8,622 sq ft For further information contact post@ravenbourne.co.uk or visit www.ownyourown.co.uk

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is a great way for your company to share its skills and expertise with others. At the same time, your staff can learn new skills, such as leading teams and project management. Provide work placements With unemployment rising fast amongst young people, the need for training and work experience opportunities has never been greater. Your company can help by working in partnership with local colleges to provide work placements for young people entering the workforce.

Here are some things you can do: Support local charities Businesses can support local charities by enabling staff to donate through payroll giving, or by sponsoring events, matchfunding money raised by staff, giving staff time off to help with projects such as decorating and landscaping, or donating items of furniture or IT equipment.

Go green Introduce green policies on recycling,

responsible energy use, environmentally friendly products and green travel to reduce the impact of your organisation on the environment. For example, you could provide secure bike shelters so staff can cycle to work, or use video conferencing to reduce travel to meetings. You could also encourage the use of Fair Trade products in your company canteen. Promote a healthy workforce Stress is a major cause of time lost from the workplace, so encourage your staff to achieve a healthy work-life balance. Make sure staff have access to information about healthy eating, exercise and other health issues.

Employee engagement This involves seconding your staff to work as volunteers with local charities and social care organisations. Employee engagement

Sponsor: RS Couriers RS Couriers were proud to sponsor the Business in the Community Award for the second year running. Kate Lester Managing Director of RS Couriers says:

“

As we celebrate business success in Sussex it’s also important to remember the people who work out of social as well as corporate responsibility, above and beyond the call of duty for the sake of their community. RS Couriers 01243 829 222

”

Winner: F A Holland & Son

A Holland & Son took home the Business in the Community award for the third time in four years and it’s no wonder why! Having been in the business since 1850, taking over the Cinderella performance at the Worthing Pavilion is one of many different ways F A Holland & Son have become involved in the community in 2009. “The event enabled us to say ‘thank you’ to our communities who we are very proud to serve,” says Cherry Ward. “F A Holland & Son feel extremely privileged to receive this award. We pride ourselves on being able to support our communities in many different ways above and beyond how a business would usually get involved.” F A Holland 01903 713939 cherry.ward@letsco-operate.com

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

65 THE MAGAZINE

BUSINESS AWARDS

usiness in the community is about ensuring your business makes a positive contribution and does not have a negative impact on staff, the community and the environment. Investing time and resources in your local community can have many benefits for your organisation and the way it is perceived by staff, customers and suppliers. It will pay dividends to demonstrate your commitment to the community through responsible business practice.

WINNERS & SPONSORS

Business in the Community Award

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Our huge stock ranges from small shrubs to magnificent fully mature specimens that will create an instant result, and all are available to buy or to hire. Plant displays can be specially designed and prepared and are available for short and long term hire for exhibitions, open days, sporting and corporate events, showrooms and display areas. Delivery and collection is included in the package and detailed quotations are available on request.

Littlehampton Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN12 6PN Tel: 01903 241122 E: plants@ferringnurseries.co.uk W: www.ferringnurseries.co.uk

really good couriers Tulips to Amsterdam Pallets to Preston Letters to London Big or small, we can deliver it all.

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WINNERS & SPONSORS

Employee of the Year Award

Sponsor: Littlehampton Academy

“

We were pleased to sponsor the ABP Award for Employee of the Year and continue to encourage our students to be as motivated, hard working and 'work ready' as this excellent role model, Jason Geall, the winner from RS Couriers. Sara Hopkins, Community Liaison Manager shopkins@tla.woodard.co.uk

”

BUSINESS AWARDS

he Team at RS Couriers were delighted when their colleague Jason Geall won Employee of the Year at the recent Arun Business Awards. “It was a great opportunity to nominate a worthy candidate,” says Kate Lester, Managing Director. “Jason is a complete star. He has remained a loyal and hard working member of staff throughout a period of significant change, which has involved a new managing director, retraining on new IT and phone systems, moving offices and adhering to new systems and policies. He has remained positive throughout and is always highly supportive to myself and the rest of the team. He has risen to every challenge set for him, including driving our client retention programme, running our supplier retention programme and ensuring that all our new systems run smoothly.” Liked and respected by couriers, colleagues and clients alike, the longserving employee has been with RS since 2001. But before the company was acquired by Diamond Logistics in July 2008, RS Couriers was struggling in the recession. New ownership meant dramatic changes had to be implemented to ensure the ability to trade in the future. Jason has played a major role in this – implementing a comprehensive overhaul of administrative practices and methodology – a process that could have been difficult but one that Jason tackled with positivity and

determination. In his new role, with key responsibility for RS Couriers’ current client retention programme, client retention has increased and suppliers have been analysed thoroughly to ensure new quality standards are maintained. Dave Reith, Operations Manager, says: “Jason has been a loyal member of the RS Couriers team for the last 10 years. He is a pleasure to work with – is conscientious, methodical, unflappable and honest. He is a positive influence in the office and always finds solutions to problems. He goes out of his way to help customers and accommodate their needs. He is trusted and respected by customers and drivers alike and is a worthy winner of this award.” To sum Jason up, RS Couriers client, Gary Edwards, managing director at MPRC, says: “Jason is always willing to go the extra mile to help and seems to take great pride in his job. Whenever I speak to him, I know that he will be helpful, reliable and efficient and will provide an excellent service. He is an

asset to RS Couriers and a great ambassador for the business.” Congratulations Jason from the whole team at Diamond and RS Couriers. RS Couriers 01243 829 222 info@rscouriers.co.uk

Winner: Jason Geall, RS Couriers “Just being put forward for the Arun Business Partnership Employee of the Year Award was a real compliment for me, so I’m thrilled to have won it!” Jason Geall

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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TOTAL IT SUPPORT & COMPUTER SOLUTIONS PROVIDER

Supporting Home User, Schools & Business’ within the region Our home user support services and expertise including everything from purchase to setup, and ongoing support, makes us your best resource to maintain daily operations of your computer.

t 01903 786702 , info@clear-computing.co.uk

Our services include: g Hardware install/repair l Software configuration m Virus removal q Data recovery w Application training b Product advice service

a clear-computing.co.uk Supports

UNIT 14 • BROOKSIDE BUSINESS PARK • BROOKSIDE AVENUE • RUSTINGTON • WEST SUSSEX BN16 3LP

off-the-peg affordable

fashion

dizzy boutique charity shops are a great place to pick up a fashion bargain. And it’s not unusual to find such names as per una, Monsoon, Laura Ashley, Boden, next & TOPSHOP to name but a few. Also we stock fashion accessories, books and gifts. So visit your nearest store, see for yourself and grab yourself a bargain. dizzy is helping to raise awareness about the risks and symptoms of diabetes. To find out more and other ways of helping, please visit our website.

Branches located at: East Preston: 35b Sea Road, East Preston • 01903 774 777 Middleton: 6 Bankside, 128 Middleton Rd, Middleton-on-Sea • 01243 855 888 Angmering Village: The Square, Angmering • 07530 988 920 Littlehampton: 9a Arundel Road, Littlehampton • 07812 443 209 Registered Community Interest Company No. 05375930

dizzy.org.uk support4diabetes

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Any profit generated is kept within the enterprise to fulfil its social objectives or to improve the business. Social enterprises create local jobs, help to generate social capital and community cohesion and are environmentally-minded. They are increasingly becoming a new way to deliver local services and to ensure community needs are met. Social enterprise is now an integral part of the government agenda for public service delivery and the development of social enterprise is being actively encouraged.” From the start, dizzy has worked closely with the local community. The stores, support group, awareness events, leaflet distribution, networking, attendance at local groups or similar, are vital to improving education of what diabetes is and highlight other initiatives that can assist us all. Last year, dizzy attended over 40 local events, distributing information about diabetes, healthy lifestyle and fitness etc. A dedicated support group, based in Littlehampton, was successfully launched last year. The meetings offered assistance and guidance to make the lives of those with diabetes as easy as possible and each event attracted new attendees. Respected professionals attended each group and dizzy hopes to set up a similar scheme in the Bognor Regis area this year. dizzy (Retail) CIC was honoured to receive

the Arun Business Partnership Disability Awareness Award in October 2008. dizzy retained this title in 2009, and also gained the Business and Marketing Promotion Award and the Overall Business of the Year Award. dizzy now has four charity shops within the Arun District and an online shop/website (dizzy.org.uk). They also have a very active presence on social networking websites such as Facebook (dizzy: support 4 diabetes) and twitter (dizzy2me). So log on, join up and follow them... Diabetes is now on an epidemic scale. As with many diseases you will only know/learn about it if you, a family member or friend becomes ill. However, we can all be at risk. There are currently an estimated 500,000 people who have diabetes but do not know it: a scary statistic. Everyone involved with dizzy is incredibly proud of what they have achieved so far; they have a passion for raising awareness of diabetes: it’s in their blood!

Sponsor: Sussex Newspapers Sussex Newspapers sponsored the Overall Business of the Year award, bringing with them £2,000 worth of advertising space. Colin Channon, editor-in-chief, Sussex Newspapers, said: It is a great pleasure for Sussex Newspapers to be part of the Arun Business Awards. We have seen the Business Partnership go from strength to strength over the years. There is a wealth of local businesses in the Arun area, and it is delightful to see them being recognised and celebrated at the awards. This year’s overall winner, dizzy, certainly deserve the overall Business of the Year Award, and we would like to congratulate them on their success.

“

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

”

69 THE MAGAZINE

BUSINESS AWARDS

he founders of diabetes support organisation dizzy were just that, dizzy with success after winning not one, not two, but three awards at the glitzy Arun Business Awards ceremony! They were rewarded with £2,000 of advertising from Sussex Newspapers and, more importantly, well-deserved recognition for their efforts and hard work. For those who are still unaware of dizzy and their endeavours, here’s some background... In 2005, Jools and Jane Chaffer decided to found dizzy, which would be the first outlet in the UK with the specific purpose of raising the profile of diabetes as a major disease, within our area of West Sussex. dizzy is a very active social enterprise and registered as a regulated ‘Community Interest Company’ (CIC). West Sussex County Council’s dedicated department, the West Sussex Social Enterprise Network (WSSEN), defines such enterprises as: “businesses with social objectives that do not distribute profit in a conventional way.

WINNERS & SPONSORS

Overall Business of the Year T

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BUSINESS AWARDS

WINNERS & SPONSORS

the

Awards

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP AWARDS

Most Enterprising Student Award The success of any business is largely determined by the person who runs it, the entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs are people who can not only spot gaps in the market, but also have the ability to sense an opportunity when those around see disorder and chaos. Educational background and relevant work experience all play a role in an entrepreneur’s success, but having the vision, confidence, flair and tenacity to drive ideas forward is what sets them aside from the rest. Entrepreneurship is initiating, doing, achieving and building an organisation. It is the willingness to take calculated risks, both personal and financial and making sure you don’t give up when the going gets tough. “To see Sir Alan Sugar’s top tips on how to survive in business visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk”

Winner: Laura James, Littlehampton Academy “I’m honoured and ecstatic about winning the award. The Arun Enterprise Challenge was to design a sandwich idea and pitch and sell them to local businesses. It was such an interesting experience for me and really gave me a taste of the working world.” See all the fabulous activities that went on during Enterprise Week for all the year groups on: www.tla.woodard.co.uk

Most Enterprising Team Award Sponsor:

Winner: Felpham Community School

Kittiwake Developments Limited,

“Being awarded Most Enterprising Team in the Arun district has been a real achievement for the students involved at Felpham, especially when you consider the tough competition that they faced from other schools in the area. The competition has been an outstanding opportunity for our students to work with local business representatives, and has exposed them to the skills that make a successful entrepreneur. The Arun Business Partnership has worked exceptionally hard putting this all together and should be congratulated for its

BusinessLinkandthe WestSussexEducation BusinessPartnership

“

Kittiwake actively encourages entrepreneurship. The company was formed 15 years ago by two entrepreneurs. Over the years, Kittiwake has supported many local schools and initiatives and when the opportunity came to combine the two, we jumped at the chance. It was a privilege to be involved in the Most Enterprising Award and great to see young people thinking in the same way as our founders. Michael Dines Kittiwake Developments Limited 01903 738342 miked@kittiwake.com

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efforts. We look forward to defending our title with our next group of students.” Gary Treharne, Felpham Community College 01243 826511 www.felpham.com A big thank you Thank you to Self Storage Space which hosted the Most Enterprising Team Challenge and to Andy McTaggart from ALS World Movers who gave up hours of his time to create and organise the challenge.

”

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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ARTS & REGENERATION

An even brighter future for Bognor Regis

BOGNOR

t is almost three years since the Bognor Regis Regeneration Task Force was established to stimulate, coordinate and progress an ambitious programme of regeneration for Bognor Regis. This has (wholly coincidentally!) collided with the worst recession of recent times. Whilst not completely unaffected, remarkably, and as a tribute to the extent, range and quality of the respective programme partners and their developments, significant progress has still been achieved in a number of particularly important areas. • Butlins brand new £20million Ocean Hotel & Spa has been completed and opened offering 200 bedrooms and spa facilities of the highest quality. Even more investment is planned. • The University of Chichester has successfully secured £8million from

the Higher Education Funding Council of England (£6million) and SEEDA (£2million), for the first stages of the Bognor Regis campus improvements and other new opportunities. Additionally, they have secured funding to operate an innovative and supported programme placing graduates in our local companies. • A brand new Bognor Regis Community College campus is almost complete with more than £45million being invested into a new Community College, new single primary school and new youth and community facilities. • A planning application for the development of the contaminated, derelict former LEC site is currently being considered by the Secretary of State. The £50million proposal provides for the complete redevelopment of this gateway site,

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

with a new Sainsbury’s food store, relocated and enhanced businesses and 20,000 sq ft of new business (B1) space. The proposed development programme includes a range of other obligations which have also been negotiated (S106s) and these include: • £0.5million for the town centre; • £125,000 for enterprise development;

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BOGNOR

ARTS & REGENERATION

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• £260,000 for improved transport links to and around the town centre. Significantly, and somewhat unusually, the negotiations have also secured obligations for the delivery of qualifications and training, and participation in the Developer & Partner Charter. At the same time, Morrisons has submitted a planning application for a new £20million plus larger and realigned food store in the town centre. Whilst this in itself is great news, Morrisons has said it will not progress this investment if approval to develop the rival Sainsbury’s food store is given! The quite magnificent Roffey Homes Esplanade Grande seafront development has been voted the Best Apartment Development in the UK and was one of only six short-listed for the World’s Best Apartment development award. Initial work has started on the development of 1,350 new homes in Felpham and Bersted. Developers Persimmon, Berkeley Homes and Barratt have endured a difficult time like all others over the past year or so and are

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pleased to see ground being broken now. Following the production of a new Strategy for the Bognor Regis seafront, funding has been secured from the SITA Trust, Butlins and the Arun Wellbeing partnership which will see the creation of the first ever Bognor Regis Seafront fitness trail ‘running’ all the way between Felpham and Aldwick. This will provide an attractive new and unusual feature which should be in place in late spring (2010). It is likely to be a popular and well used facility!! Alongside all of this, we have been

arranging programmes for local businesses to promote to them the opportunities that are available from the town’s extensive regeneration programme. In recent weeks we have staged a retail workshop alongside the Business Partnership, the Bognor Regis Chamber of Commerce and Business Link. The end of November saw a hugely successful event with over 120 local businesses meeting with Butlins, to see what opportunities there are for working together. Butlins are keen to use as much local business as possible and both they and local businesses who attended felt they had made some great contacts and potential contracts too. In January 2010 when the University of Chichester hosted an event to show what opportunities they have created and are creating for local businesses too. Graduate placements, undergraduate placements, new work in and around the Bognor Regis campus, and new degree courses aimed at developing better business leaders and encouraging more creativity and ‘start ups’ are just a flavour of what you need to know about. The Bognor Regis Regeneration Task Force led by Richard McMann is coordinating this entire programme of investment and change and you can keep up to date with all of the events and information by logging on to: www.arun.gov.uk The Task Force, developers, investors and local businesses are alive and kicking in Bognor Regis and by working together are creating an even brighter future for the town. Are you part of it yet???? For further information log on to: www.arun.gov.uk, phone 01903 737959 or email: richard.mcmann@arun.gov.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Littlehampton

• Activating the Oyster Pond. Littlehampton harbour Another key area is the harbour which has recently been subject to a study to consider its future. The study looked at how to transform the harbour and seafront into a thriving leisure destination, creating a variety of new skills, development and business opportunities. St Martin’s car park The St Martin’s area was identified in the Littlehampton Vision as a key site in developing the retail area of the town.

Littlehampton seafront During the year, a Waterfront Strategy has been drawn up by world-renowned architect Sir Terry Farrell and his team. The Strategy was adopted by Arun District Council in July and demonstrates a range of initiatives that could be put in place to improve and enhance Littlehampton seafront. They suggest that this may be done in a number of ways including: • Creating strong links with Littlehampton town centre. • Celebrating the promenade. • Connecting the east and west beaches. WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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LITTLEHAMPTON

egeneration is a notoriously slow and often frustrating process – particularly when viewed from the outside – and often just as frustrating on the inside! It can seem an inordinate amount of time between the first discussion of a project or scheme to the first brick. But it’s usually worth waiting for and in Littlehampton we are sure the wait will be worthwhile! While we are working away in the background we thought it would be good to update you on what is going on with the various regeneration sites in Littlehampton.

Littlehampton town centre suffers from a lack of suitable retail units for modern retailers and the development of this area is seen as the key to providing the new retail premises that will attract those retailers. A Development Brief has been drawn up which is the document to guide the way in which the area is developed. Arun District Council, which owns the site, has recently agreed to fund the next stage of developing this site and pre-marketing work will shortly be taking place. Of course, this is another piece of “behind the scenes” work, but nevertheless moves the site closer to an end product. Details of many of the schemes and potential development sites, along with the most up to date information, can be found at www.arun.gov.uk/littlehampton or just call Miriam Nicholls on 01903 737845.

ARTS & REGENERATION

A worthwhile wait for

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here’s always something going on in Arun. We’ve collected a few highlights from the coming months - so make sure you jot these down in your 2010 diary and make the most of this dynamic district!

DIARY

ARUN EVENTS

Arun Events2010

Clowns Parade Date: Location: Town/village: Event details: For more information:

Sunday 7 March 2010 Butlins Day Visitor entrance Bognor Regis Parade of about 100 clowns, led by marching band, along seafront and through town centre. contact Sue Holmes on 01243 825535, sueholmes@bognorregis.gov.uk

Bognor Regis Town Carnival Date: Saturday 19 June 2010 Location: Parade to leave from Regis Centre Car Park at approximately 2pm Town/village: Bognor Regis Event details: Parade along seafront to Aldwick and on to West Park. Entertainment, funfair and fireworks (to be confirmed) in the evening at West Park. Theme: Cinema For more information: contact Sue Holmes on 01243 825535, sueholmes@bognorregis.gov.uk Littlehampton Carnival Date: Location: Town/village: Event details:

For more information: Sands of Time Date: Location: Town/village: Event details: For more information:

Saturday 10 July 2010 Littlehampton town and seafront Littlehampton Entertainment in Littlehampton town centre 10am- 2pm. Carnival procession lines up at St Winefrides Road, Littlehampton, at 4.30pm. Judging begins and 5pm, moving off at 6pm along seafront and town centre route. Free entry. contact Freda Hughes on 01903 716634, fredahughes@aol.com.

Sunday 5 September 2010 Royal Norfolk Hotel, Waterloo Square Gardens and seafront bandstand Bognor Regis Bognor Regis A celebration of the town’s seaside heritage. Classic cars, sandcastle competition, craft fair, exhibitions, children’s activities. contact Sue Holmes on 01243 825535, sueholmes@bognorregis.gov.uk

Traditional Bonfire Celebrations Date: Saturday 30 October 2010 Location: Littlehampton town centre and seafront Town/village: Littlehampton Event details: Torchlight processions featuring costumed torch bearers from Sussex bonfire and carnival societies, marching bands, steam engines and illuminated floats. Mammoth bonfire and seafront firework display. For more information: see www.lbs.me.uk or contact littlehamptonbonfiresociety@hotmail.co.uk.

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WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Support the Arundel Festival and get noticed

vice versa - this generates goodwill. Research has shown that through supporting the arts, businesses gain in marketing terms by surprising and delighting their clients; in addition staff will gain from increased motivation, thus improving productivity through increased internal communication. If you would like to find out more about how your business could benefit by sponsoring the Arundel Festival 2010 contact Justin Williams on 01903 531531.

Wheeling BackWheels

for 2010! different to other motor shows. It is aimed at the family, as you can see from the many different events that are put on throughout the weekend. As a local Littlehampton dealer, we feel it’s important to get involved with the local community, as well as making sure that we are noticed and getting the Cuff Miller name out there.” The two event runs from 31st July until 1st August 2010. For more information call the CAM team on: 0870 1900 220.

ou may have noticed that Wheels didn’t take place in 2009. Why you may ask? Well, partly to give you the chance to really revel in the excitement of Wheels 2010! If you haven’t already heard of Wheels, in a nutshell it is a celebration of cars, trucks, bikes, blades, buses and boards! The aim of Wheels is to provide a fun family event, which will encourage visitors and locals alike to see just how much Littlehampton has to offer. Whether you’re interested in new cars, motorcycles, skateboards, quads or remote control cars, it’s all here for you!

This is an event where you don’t just look! There will be half-pipes, model slot car racing, simulators and more to keep you busy, if you can tear yourself away from the new car dealers and club stands that is! There will also be food and entertainment a-plenty too, so make sure you fit everything in! Many local businesses have speculated about how brilliant the event has been in showcasing their products and services. Cuff Miller has attended Wheels for two years running. Martin Cornish, Retail Sales Manager, comments: “Wheels is

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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DIARY

venue!). Arundel Castle hosts large concerts as well as Shakespeare in the open air and Opera in the Barons Hall. Street Entertainment is an important element which attracts crowds to the historic town centre, as well as other free events. In 2009 we introduced “Big Weekends” in Jubilee Gardens with a bar and BBQ, these turned out to be one of the focal points for the whole Festival. By supporting the Arundel Festival you are not only contributing to a great community event, you are adding your corporate values to the programme and

ARUN EVENTS

he annual Arundel Festival is one of the must visit cultural events around the August Bank Holiday in West Sussex. By supporting an event or element of the programme your business message could be seen by over 30,000 regional visitors. Our plans for late August 2010 are for a bigger and better Festival with more events for families with young children, including workshops. The Festival is made up of music (from classical to jazz, pop to folk), art (Gallery Trail) and drama (like Edinburgh wherever performers can find a

2 0 1 0

MEETINGS

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

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GettingTo Know You

any of our readers will be aware that Getting To Know You is the Arun Business Partnership’s B2B event and has been running for more years than many of us care to remember! This year the event was no less successful with around 80 businesses taking the FREE opportunity to have a table to display their wares and meet other local companies, and others

2009

coming along just to browse, meet up with colleagues and make new contacts. As ever the noise level was our guide to success and it certainly was noisy! As we left there were already reports

of substantial contracts being exchanged and great contacts made. Look out for the 2010 event, we promise it will be bigger and better than ever and still FREE!

Give networking a try W

hat would you think if you were invited to a typical business networking meeting, what do you imagine it would be like? A few businesses gathered together, apologies for absence, minutes of the last meeting, matters arising, long speeches and even longer presentations? I’ve been to them and I’m sure you have too and, of course, there is a place for such meetings. Now think about being invited to a quarterly meeting of the Arun Business Partnership. No minutes of the last meeting, no apologies for absence, no long presentations or speeches and lots more than just a few businesses gathered together. Our average attendance is around 60, and whilst lots of contacts are made and the early stages of some valuable contracts are evident, we do like to have a bit of fun! The meetings are cabaret style – and that’s not just the seating! It’s your chance to get to know about other local businesses, what they can do and how you can work together. We do a bit

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of speed dating (or networking if you prefer!) and we are told it works! It must do, we know business people just don’t have the time to go to meetings that don’t provide them with anything and once they’ve been to one of the Arun Business Partnership meetings many seem to be hooked! As they say “the proof of the pudding ……” - so why not get along to the next meeting and see for yourself?

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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arun business partnership Dates for your Diary 2010

March 8th

Spring Networking Meeting Venue The Comfort Inn Arundel If someone offered you the chance to meet between 60 and 80 of your local business colleagues in one place at one time, colleagues who might just want the product or service you offer, would you turn it down? We thought not!

June 10th

Partnership Race Day with Fontwell Park Race Course Venue Fontwell Park Race Course A chance for you to enjoy an evening at the races as well as swapping tips and business cards with your colleagues. Odds on you will enjoy it!

June 28th

Summer Networking Meeting Venue The Beachcroft Hotel, Felpham

September 13th

Autumn Networking Meeting Venue The Black Horse, Climping

September 23rd

Partnership Charity Golf Day Venue Bognor Regis Golf Club A good walk spoiled? It would seem not from the number wanting to be involved in the Partnership Golf Day! Your chance to get in the swing and meet other like minded business people – what more could you ask for?

October TBA

Getting to Know You Plus Venue Fontwell Park Racecourse Your free annual Business Exhibition (Getting to Know You). Book your space and show the other local businesses what services and products your company offer. This year we are extending the event to include a local careers and skills fayre!.

November 18th

Arun Business of the Year Awards Venue to be confirmed In the words of Tina Turner – Simply the Best! Your chance to be one of the best or maybe THE best if you win the Overall Business of the Year Award. Even if you don’t enter (and we can’t understand why you wouldn’t) come along and enjoy the celebrations.

December 6th

Christmas Networking Meeting Venue Middleton Sports Club

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BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

GOLF DAY

Tee off with the

Business Partnership T

he Arun Business Partnership’s 3rd Annual Charity Golf Day took place on Thursday 20th August at Bognor Regis Golf Club. With a range of teetimes and all entry fees going to support Chestnut Tree House and Homelink, could there be a better way of doing business? Fuelled for the day with bacon rolls and coffee, thirty eight men and one little lady took to the fairways and greens bringing with them their finest clubs, in hope to out drive and out putt their way to victory. The friendly game was eventually won by Team ‘Drumconner’: members were Roger Kinsman, Nick Sorensen, Mike Hall and former professional footballer Paul Jones. Paul comments: “The day was very well run, and of course our team won, which is always a bonus!” After a day’s sport the team mates were welcomed indoors with a delectable three course lunch, and the raffle was drawn by Paul Jones and Mike Pisko. The Arun Business Partnership would like to thank Barclays Bank for kindly matching the money raised pound for pound. The total raised for Chestnut Tree House and Homelink was £1,152 – so well done everyone!

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Jools Chaffer from dizzy commented: “What a great event. Good people, good business, good meal! I thoroughly enjoyed the course and will definitely be entering my team again next year.” We would like to thank the following companies for sponsoring the event: Chandlers BMW Angmering (Hole in one sponsor), FA Holland & Son (Hole Sponsor), Inspire Leisure (Hole Sponsor), 24X (Hole Sponsor), Performance Effects (Hole Sponsor).

Raffle Prizes provided by: FA Holland & Sons, The Best Western Beachcroft Hotel, Butlins, Football Bananas, Food Restaurant, Arun View, David Lloyd, Rustington Golf Centre, Ian Hart Funeral Directors, Avisford Park Hilton, Rivervale Mazda, Paul Jones, Barclays Bank, Home Link, Chestnut Tree House. To book your team in for 2010 please contact Michael Pisko on 0870 1900 220 or email Michael@camcentral.co.uk or visit www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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For your wedding, party or corporate event Middleton Sports Club offers an unrivalled backdrop across the cricket green for guests to enjoy, setting a scene that is unique in the area. Our clubhouse has an excellent bar and restaurant, please visit our website to view photographs of the interior. The function room has its own dance floor and we are able to accommodate up to 250 guests with the addition of a fully lined and heated marquee. If you are interested in holding any special events with us, we would welcome the opportunity to show you around our facilities and discuss your requirements.

Telephone 01243 583157 e-mail info@middletonsportsclub.co.uk www.middletonsportsclub.co.uk

WINE & DINE

FOOD & DRINK

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Relax by the by Felicity Davies

sea

he Best Western Beachcroft Hotel is the perfect location for a family celebration, a conference, a gettogether with friends or a short break. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and everyone is made to feel welcome. Just a stone’s throw from the peaceful seafront in Felpham, the hotel’s quiet location, coupled with first-rate conference facilities, makes it an ideal venue for a meeting, conference, seminar or exhibition, or that dream wedding by the sea. The hotel accommodates up to 110 people and caters for all occasions. The premises are also equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas. Why not relax on a lazy Sunday afternoon over tea and coffee in the superb dining room, or indulge in a three course lunch soothed by classic jazz tunes from the quintet Take Five? The menu has something for everyone, from char-grilled swordfish steak to mushroom stroganoff: so whether you’re looking for a set menu or an à la carte meal, you won’t be disappointed. With 35 luxury rooms,

why not make a night of it? The hotel also has a swimming pool for a morning dip before you start your day.

13 February Valentine’s Party Night 14 March Mother’s Day Sunday Lunch

Diary Dates 2010 7 February Piano Sunday Lunch 21 February Jazz Sunday Lunch 20 March Beachcroft Party Night

To try the Beachcroft Hotel for yourself call in at Clyde Road, Felpham, phone 01243 827142, or visit their award winning website: www.beachcroft-hotel.co.uk.

Traditional Fare at Climping by Kate Lester

t’s that time of year when there is nothing better at the end of a long walk than a traditional pub meal in front of a roaring fire. On a blustery Friday in November, I joined Mel from the Arun Business Partnership for just that at the Black Horse in Climping. Taken over since April by Mike and his team, the pub was pleasingly full with a good blend of locals and tourists, despite the recession. The menu promised good, staple pub fare, and there was a choice of three red or white wines and beers to suit every taste. Each meal is prepared lovingly to order as the quality of the dishes testified. I started with a beetroot, feta and olive salad, which was lovely, and Mel enjoyed pâté with cranberry sauce served with freshly baked buns, which she described as delicious. Then I undertook the true test of a pub declaring itself a producer of 'traditional fare': I opted for the ham, egg and chips and was not disappointed. The chips were lovely; the ham a substantial home-cooked slice and the egg perfect. Mel’s Cajun

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chicken foccacia was a huge chunk of breast meat, with a lovely blend of Cajun spices. I am afraid the deserts were beyond our capacity but for those with room, old time favourites like sticky toffee pudding sounded yummy. And now with two new wood burners recently installed you are sure of a warm welcome. There is plenty of space here for a bigger gathering, so why not contemplate this as a location for team days, Christmas parties or even client entertaining? Climping beach is just down the road for a bracing pre or post lunch walk. For more details or to book call Mike on 01903 715175 If you’d like Kate to review your pub, hotel or restaurant, contact Mel at the Arun Business Partnership for further details. read more...

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Matching Wine with Food

Widely available £6.99 An outstandingly crisp and refreshing white from Chile’s largest, and arguably best, wine producer. This Sauvignon Blanc is elegant and well rounded on the palate, balanced by crisp lemon and gooseberry flavours and refreshing acidity. An ideal aperitif! Casillero del Diablo Sparkling Brut Reserva 2007 – Chile Waitrose £9.99 What better way to celebrate a special occasion than with a bottle of fizz? Light, refreshing and with a lovely crisp finish, the wine is made from 100 per cent Chardonnay from vineyards in the Limari Valley in the far north of Chile. Made in the same way as traditional French Champagne, winemaker Marcelo Papa ages a small proportion of the wine in oak barrels to add complexity, richness and a toasty nutty finish. Delicious! Casillero del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 – Chile Widely available £6.99 One of the classic red varieties from Chile – this Cabernet is rich, textured and silky smooth. Bursting with vibrant blackcurrant, cherry and cassis characters, this is just perfect with rib of beef. Delightful! Bellow’s Rock Pinotage 2008 South Africa Costco £23.99 for 6 (£3.99 each) A great example of South Africa’s native grape variety, displaying ripe cherry fruit flavours, a touch of nutmeg spice and soft tannins. Ideal with game and warming winter stews.

Bellow’s Rock Shiraz Viognier 2008 - South Africa Costco £23.99 for 6 (£3.99 each) The 2008 Shiraz is co-fermented with 3 per cent Viognier, and 40% of the wine is aged in French and American oak for a period of 6 months. Soft, approachable and easy drinking with classic Shiraz characters of spice and white pepper, the wine is lifted by an aromatic dollop of Viognier in true CoteRotie style. Tavernello Sangiovese – Italy Tesco £3.99 The Italians have long since embraced alternative packaging, with Tavernello ranked Italy’s No.1 selling wine brand. The Tavernello Tetra-Paks tick all the right boxes – they are convenient, accessible, easy to transport and eco-friendly to boot. This classic Italian red grape variety is bursting with rich, ripe berry fruit characters and just a hint of spice. Soft, supple and easy drinking, Tavernello Sangiovese is the perfect wine for those long summer lunches or for when friends drop by. Tavernello Trebbiano Pinot Bianco – Italy Tesco £3.99 A delicious blend of two white grape varieties that are synonymous with Italy – the fresh and fruity Trebbiano and the crisp and refreshing Pinot Bianco. A crisp, zesty, fresh wine with distinct flavours of melon and green apple, it is fantastic with fish and seafood! McGuigan Estate Sparkling Brut – Australia Sainsbury’s £11.99 A new release sparkling wine from the recently crowned International Wine & Spirit Competition ‘International Winemaker of the Year’, this Chardonnay based fizz is

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brimming with elegant tropical fruit and citrus flavours. The fine bead delivers a fresh finish with delicious biscuit and toasty undertones. McGuigan Classic Grey Label Merlot 2008 – Australia Majestic £6.99 Four generations of the McGuigan family have made wine their life. The fruit of their labour is evident in this new wave Aussie Merlot. With lifted aromas of dark berries, cherries and vanilla, the palate displays ripe plum characters and lashings of spice. Soft tannins lead to a smooth and full finish giving this easy drinking Merlot a warming, quaffable quality. McGuigan Classic Grey Label Chardonnay 2009 – Australia Majestic, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Co-op £6.99 2009 has been a breakthrough year for Australian winery McGuigan Wines, Trophies and Gold Best in Class awards at major UK wine shows, including White Winemaker of the Year. It’s not hard to see why with this lively Chardonnay, which is soft and full on the palate, generous tropical fruit flavours are joined with spicy oak notes. This would be well suited with rich seafood or classic poultry dishes. Nepenthe Charleston Pinot Noir 2007 – Australia Majestic £9.99 The Adelaide Hills are recognised as one of the premium wine regions in Australia, ideally suited to producing delicate wines packed full of flavour. The nose of this Pinot Noir is dominated by fresh raspberry and cherry characters, with hints of savoury, earthy complexity. Quietly powerful with a long, savoury and mouth-watering finish, this is a real treat

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Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc 2009 - Chile

FOOD & DRINK

tuck for that ultimate food and wine match? Not to worry, just follow a few simple guidelines and you’ll be in gastronomic heaven! The first rule is that there are no rules - try to be as open-minded as you can. Secondly, drink the style of wine that you like. There are naturally going to be types of food and wine that you don’t like, so avoid them! Thirdly, try to match the general weight and power of the flavours in the food with the wine. Don’t necessarily stick to the old adage of white wine with white meat and red wine with red meat – try pairing lighter wines with lighter foods and more full-bodied wines with heavier foods. Try a few different matches and see what works for you. Specific characters in the food can be considered too – try to match similar flavours. A white wine with citrus notes works well with fish dishes that have lemon or other citrus tastes. Full-bodied reds match well with earthy robust flavours such as roast meats and mushrooms. The most important thing to remember though is to have fun – food and wine are two of life’s great pleasures. Here’s a few great wines to enjoy, whether on their own, or with food!

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LOOK&SEA

Conference Room With a View A city centre oasis of elegance, perfect for entertaining, for the discerning. – offering local and regional produce –

made with love

The meeting room with the BIG view! • Versatile Conference Room For Up To 60 • Multi Media Projector/Hifi/ Wifi/Flipcharts • Harbour Lights Cafe/Restaurant • Catering Available

• Breakfast Meetings Available • Open 7 Days A Week • Very Competitive Prices

THE DINING ROOM offers a tranquil and stylish setting for your lunch, business or celebration dinner. We have a beautiful conservatory and courtyard garden perfect for an enchanting experience. We now offer pre and post theatre suppers. Over 200 wines & 400 spirits are now available as off sale. Please contact us for reservations. For special offers and events please see our website.

• Whole Building Available For Hire Including Tower • Heritage Exhibition

Please contact us for further information or come in and have a look.

Look and Sea, 65 Surrey Street, Littlehampton info@lookandsea.co.uk

01903 718984

www.lookandsea.co.uk

The Black Horse Inn Climping

An Ocean View Hotel... The Beachcroft Hotel offers something for everybody. Whether you are on holiday or on business, you are assured of a warm and friendly welcome.

• Groups • Conferences • Weddings • Lunches & Dinners • Parties Clyde Road, Felpham, Bognor Regis, PO22 7AH

Tel: 01243 827142 www.beachcroft-hotel.co.uk

The Black Horse Inn, formely a smugglers Inn, is a traditional pub and restaurant dating back to the 18th century. Situated in the quaint village of Climping the pub offers a variety of fresh dishes and quality wines, available lunchtimes and evenings seven days a week. We also cater for special occasions, anniversaries, birthdays, weddings or business meetings. For large groups we close off one of the main seating areas for a more intimate venue, which can be decorated for the occasion. Give us a call to discuss your requirements.

Climping Street, Climping, Littlehampton West Sussex BN17 5RL

Tel: 01903 715715

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WINE & DINE

Hilton Avisford Park Head Chef Andy Smithers serves up his dish of the month for ABP readers - and invites you to lunch!

hy not try it for yourself or alternatively why not come along and try this dish and some of our other excellent dishes at the Cedar Restaurant in the Hilton Avisford Park, Arundel. Andy has worked hard to create some delicious seasonal menus. From canapés to lunchtime parties, to Christmas Day lunch and traditional Sunday lunches, and wonderful residential packages. Why not let Andy and his team do the cooking for you? Ask Andy and you could win lunch for two at Avisford Park! If you were unable to join us at Avisford Park over the festive season and have any questions regarding cooking the perfect Christmas Lunch, Andy will be delighted to help you create a memorable meal for your family and friends. As a thank you for getting in touch, Andy will put your name in a draw to win Sunday Lunch for two at one of the new Jazz Sunday Lunches which are being held at Avisford Park. Email your questions to Andy at hilton@sussexlocal.net. Please indicate if you do not wish to receive further contact from either Hilton or Sussex Local.

Scallops in Prosciutto with vine roasted tomatoes INGREDIENTS (serves 4) 12 x roeless scallops 4 x slices prosciutto ham 4 bunches vine tomatoes 1 x onion 200ml white wine

200ml cream 4oz butter Parsley Olive oil Seasoning Lemon

METHOD • Cut ham into 3, lengthways. • Wrap 1 scallop with each slice. • Season & drizzle with oil. Sear both sides in hot dry pan. • Roast tomatoes in hot oven for 5-6 minutes. • Lightly saute onion, add white wine & lemon juice then reduce. • Add cream & reduce further. Whisk in softened butter. • Season & add chopped parsley. This dish is also complemented by fried or grilled black pudding.

DID YOU LIKE THIS RECIPE? Why

FOOD & DRINK

Recipe

not try it for yourself or alternatively why not come along and try this dish and some of our

other excellent dishes at the Cedar Restaurant in the Hilton Avisford Park, Arundel. Just bring this copy with you to receive a 15% discount off your food bill. (Drinks not included)

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

83 THE MAGAZINE

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The Comfort Inn Arundel provides the perfect location for any business meeting or conference. A very warm welcome awaits you and your delegates to our meeting and conference rooms.

Hotel amenities include: ➣ Four air conditioned conference and meetings rooms

➣ In room tea & coffee making facilities

➣ A fully licensed restaurant & Bar

➣ Direct Dial telephone

➣ 53 ensuite bedrooms

➣ Hairdryer

➣ Non-smoking rooms

➣ Wireless Internet

➣ Easy access rooms for wheelchair

➣ Ample free car parking

Contact our reservation and conference booking team now to reserve your conference and let us look after you. Call us now on: 01903 840840

➣ Television with Sky

Junction A27/A284, Lyminster Road, Crossbush, Arundel, West Sussex, BN17 7QQ T: 01903 840840 F: 01903 849849 E: reservations@comfortinnarundel.co.uk

www.comfortinnarundel.com

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many of our customers, our famous fish mezé. We also cater for vegetarians and customers who are not quite so keen on fish with exciting dishes such as lamb shank, steak and kidney pudding, and our vegetarian Fish Factory rosti stack. The new fish restaurant houses 30 tables of hungry people. For a refined culinary experience, where everything is cooked from scratch, The Fish Factory in Littlehampton serves up the finest seafood dishes, delicately cooked to perfection following your specifications. With all the allure of a top-notch London restaurant, The Fish Factory hasn't lost its unpretentious and relaxing, homely atmosphere and diners will enjoy our casual, rustic environment. Our varied menu also offers mouthwatering meat and vegetarian options, ranging from the traditional to the more exotic. From innovative recipes such as squid stuffed with chorizo to hearty traditional classics such as wild boar and apple sausages with mash and plenty of

WINE & DINE

ish lovers can now get even more excited! Yes, wait for it … The Fish Factory has expanded opening a brand spanking new fish restaurant in Littlehampton! Forget Billingsgate Fish Market – all our fish is caught locally. You can choose from delicious fish dishes such as calamari, Dakshin River catfish, tzatziki crab, shellfish chowder, flamed tiger shrimps, whole sardines, king shrimp cocktail and traditional fish and chips. Not forgetting a personal favourite of

healthy options, there is something for everyone here at The Fish Factory. Whatever you choose though, make sure to leave a space for one of our finger-licking, homemade desserts. read more...

Haven’t tried the mouth watering menu at Fish Factory in Littlehampton? Then call 01903 715 000 to make a reservation. Find us at 5 East Street, Littlehampton, West Sussex BN17 6AU

TheDiningRoom

his atmospheric restaurant and bar is situated in a Georgian merchant’s house that was, until recently, one of the country’s oldest wine merchants. The moment you arrive in the contemporary bar, featuring a 19th century map of the city, you are tempted by the comprehensive range of classic cocktails and more than 20 wines and Champagnes by the glass. Eating in the main dining room, which features an Adams fireplace & deep red walls, makes this a very elegant place to be. You can also dine in the conservatory, overlooking the delightful courtyard garden, where you can also eat. The menu specialising in shellfish and game is well balanced and features many local and regional ingredients, where the restaurant’s policy of supporting local business really shine through in the freshness and quality. Vegetarians and special diets are also catered for.

Perfectly placed in the city centre for business lunches, shoppers, and pre-theatre. Private hire for weddings and business meetings are also catered for. Tel: 01243 537352 or www.thediningroom.biz Elvis cabaret evening 4th Feb and our new set menu will be £15 for two courses and £20 for three.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

FOOD & DRINK

Thou Shall Have a Fishy on a Littlehampton Dishy!

85 THE MAGAZINE

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MOTORING

BUSINESS CORNER

Hometyre Group Sussex

– We Come To You

ometyre Group Sussex operators Mark Watson and his wife Lyne launched their new business in March to provide a mobile tyre specialist service to domestic and commercial businesses. Working from arguably the bestequipped mobile service vehicle on the roads today, Mark and Lyne attend to your vehicle at your convenience at your home or your place of work, saving you time and money. The service offers tyre checks, puncture repairs, worn tyre replacement, wheel alignment and removing locking wheel nuts. Since starting the business at the beginning of March, they have been actively promoting and marketing Hometyre to gain new business and referrals. They attended the Brighton and Hove Business Show in November and a networking event at Butlins to

showcase their service for staff and holiday-makers who travel by car. read more...

Next time you need tyres, give Hometyre a go! You can call them free on 0800 783 9310 or (01273) 80 30 83

The New Ford KA Zetec “Funky, fresh and fantastic to drive, the new Ford KA definitely has that head-turning power!”

here’s something endearing about the new quirky Ford KA. The original model caused quite a stir when it first appeared on roads, with its bottom-heavy frame and bubble-like exterior. For some reason it always seemed to put a smile on my face, whether that’s because of its cute appearance or merely because seeing one meant a free lift home (from my friend who owned one), I am not quite sure! The cheeky-spirited vehicle that is “the KA” has reached legendary status over the past few years, with a variety of names along the way. Call it the conventional “KA”, “CAR”, or be adventurous and make that silly “CAH” squawk when you see one! Either way, it’s obvious that the KA is made to be unique, adapted by the owner. But, you may ask: “what more could a new version possibly offer than its time honoured predecessor?” I thought the same thing until I test drove one myself! The new KA definitely ticks all the boxes looks-wise, with its rounded bonnet and cute and curvy rear, it may not have that eccentric bottom-heavy look that the last KA did, but it definitely has that head-turning power. The adolescent has grown into a sophisticated, but still edgy, young adult. Once inside the car, I was struck by the curved lines of the interior. With the classic KA logo in the centre, the dashboard

THE MAGAZINE 86

is sleek and clean, and I was especially excited about using the up high gear stick, as I had never driven with one before! I was suddenly much more comfortable in the driving seat with all the most up-to-date gadgets. The car was nippy to drive, but what I found so appealing about the new KA is its overall edge. The car has a verve that some cars just lack, and everything can be tailored to fit its owner, from racer stripes to the colour of the alloys and steering wheel! It has personality and character, yet without being too obvious or attention-seeking. Review by Felicity Davies Car supplied by Cuff Miller Littlehampton. Sales: 01903 714367

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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WHY PAY MORE? WHY WASTE TIME? TYRES UPTO 30% CHEAPER... LOCKING WHEEL NUT REMOVAL SERVICE... NO CALL OUT CHARGE...

Local Business - Pa

0800 783 93 10 Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to take your call...

rt of a Nationa

l Network

info@hometyre.co.uk www.hometyre.co.uk

AUTOMOBILE REPAIR SERVICE CARS COMPLETE Martin Bailey I

Martin Bailey, owner , trained locally with main dealers and fully qualified as a technician before starting CARS, a family run business in Littlehampton 20 years ago and are now situated by the River adjacent to a very busy body shop.

With good customer base in the local and surrounding areas stretching from Chichester, Brighton to Horsham (Collection and delivery service available).

We do not specialise in any make of cars as we have great knowledge after so many years on all models.

Strive to give a personal touch, understanding the need of each individual that enter our garage to all our customers individual or contractors.

All our customers can rest assure that all quotations will be very competitive and fair.

Services include: General maintenance to manufacturersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; specs.

I I I I I I I

Local agent for brake servicing (Ferodo) Clutch replacement. All aspect of air conditioning services. Engine Management diagnostic. Breakdown facilities. MOT. All works comes with 12 months parts warranty.

47 River Road, Littlehampton

Tel: 01903 732200

WE ACCEPT THE FOLLOWING:

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TopSEED

MOTORING

BUSINESS CORNER

The Magazine Issue 8 48-92:Issue 7_Nov 08

sk any tennis star and they will tell you that to be at the top of your game you need to be focused on what you want to achieve and have a talented team around you to help you achieve it. When Kia set out to create a compact family car, specifically designed for the UK and European markets, they looked for the best in the business to help them. They turned to Peter Schreyer designer of the Audi TT and VW new Beetle. Schreyer and his team benchmarked the best European cars in order to give Kia something substantive to aim at. The resulting design was certainly impressive. The company invested 1 billion euros in creating the most advanced factory in Europe which produces the three models that make up the Cee’d range: the popular 5 door hatchback, the spacious SW estate and the head-turning coupe; with them, Kia has aimed to produce cars to take on and beat the likes of the Ford Focus and the Vauxhall

THE MAGAZINE 88

Astra. Sit inside the Cee’d and you may well think they have achieved just that. A clean theme characterises the exterior and is carried through to the interior, where the fit and finish and attention to detail are truly exceptional. Thanks to a long wheelbase, wide track and tall roofline, the Cee’d family gives its occupants an impressive amount of space. Equipment levels in the Cee’d family are generous, including air conditioning, twin front airbags, front electric windows, alloy wheels, central door locking, power steering, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution, and a JVC CD audio with MP3 player and connectivity. What’s more the GS diesel’s Road Fund Licence is only £35 per annum. In addition, the Cee’d range comes with a massive 7 years or 100,000 miles warranty. What’s more, the warranty is fully transferable to subsequent owners, meaning you can buy a 3-year old Cee’d with a warranty longer than many of

Kia’s competitors offer on a new car. And for added reassurance, all three models have been awarded a 5-Star Euro NCAP safety rating, placing them among the C-segment’s safest cars on the road. In the independent annual Driver Power survey, carried out by Auto Express, in conjunction with The Daily Telegraph, Cee’d beat all other compact family cars to come top of its category. The survey measured the views of over 21,400 new car drivers across the UK on their car’s performance in a number of key areas, including practicality, build quality, reliability, and running costs. From the result, it would appear that Cee’d drivers are pleased drivers. You can find more information on the Kia range by telephoning Newbarn Kia on 01243 841200, or visiting www.newbarnkia.co.uk. Alternatively, pay a visit to the dealership, located at 65 Aldwick Road, Bognor Regis.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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A J Parker

C & M Trophies 5 Arundel Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex BN17 7BY T: 01903 717766

VEHICLE SERVICES M.O.T & SERVICE CENTRE Established Over 10 Years

• Wide selection of Crystal availble for engraving • Engraveable gifts in stock including pens, key rings and photo frames Silver and pewter items Class IV - Cars Light Vans

•• ••

MOT SERVICE DIAGNOSTICS WELDING

AJP

Class VII - Light Vans up to 3500kg

•• •• •

Class VL - Private Mini Buses up to 3500kg

COURTESY VEHICLES COLLECTION & DELIVERY REPAIRS TYRES, EXHAUSTS, BATTERIES FLEET MANAGEMENT

Service 01243 841969 MOT 01243 828283

AJP

Unit 14 Arun Business Park, Shripney Road, Bognor Regis, West Sussex. PO22 9SX

• A selection of unusual gifts also availble includes wine presentation box and accessory set and boxed compass

The Arun Business would like to thank everybody who has contributed to the success of The Magazine. To be involved in the next magazine contact Melanie on 0870 1900 220 melanie@camcentral.co.uk

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makes good business sense

ROAD SAFETY

BUSINESS CORNER

Safe driving at work –

round this time last year, we introduced you to the COSTS project in the wake of amendments made to the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act. Now, the COSTS project team has developed ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions to help you create a robust road risk policy, keeping your drivers safe on the roads and your company out of the headlines. As a quick reminder, the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act now places a much greater duty of care on company owners, directors and fleet managers in respect of their road risk policies. Companies or organisations can now be convicted if one of their employees is killed or seriously injured while driving for work, should it be found that there have been gross failures in the way that activities have been managed to reduce that risk. Penalties for such convictions range

THE MAGAZINE 90

from an unlimited fine, a publicity order, or imprisonment for individuals who have been prosecuted for gross negligence, manslaughter or culpable homicide. This is clearly not good for business and the COSTS project team is here to help. Over the last year we have engaged with a number of economic development teams, business forums and the Federation of Small Businesses, raising awareness around the risks posed by companies having no, or weak, occupational road risk policies. We have produced materials to support managers in the development of policies and a variety of products answering many of the queries raised by those who drive on business, helping them to drive more safely. It is not just about having a good policy; it is about promoting road safety

as a culture within the workforce. You can have the most perfect policy possible, but if it is not implemented or promoted effectively, then it is as good as not having a policy at all. An important outcome of any occupational road risk policy is that it generates a road safety ‘buy in’ from the workforce. To help companies achieve this goal, the COSTS project team has developed a package which includes an occupational road risk policy assessment. This is normally followed by a member of the team facilitating a ‘Lunch and Learn’ workshop with managers and staff who drive for the company so they can interact together and develop a better understanding of the important issues around having a sound policy and culture. Although the Health and Safety Executive’s guidance is principally aimed at companies with five or more employees, the level of risk doesn’t diminish for smaller firms and may even increase for single operator companies whose owners have to do everything themselves and therefore may be more tired or distracted behind the wheel. This assessment service and the ‘Lunch and Learn’ workshops are open to everybody, no company is too small and the COSTS team are keen to engage with you, whatever the size and scale of your business. The ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions are free of charge, although we do ask that you supply the lunch! A white board and pens, plus a projector and screen are also required. The team can also deliver ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions to a number of small businesses simultaneously, and the maximum number for any of these events is 12 people. A full assessment of your company’s road risk policies is free of charge and normally takes around an hour and a half. To find out more about what COSTS means to your business, and to book a ‘Lunch and Learn’ session, please visit our website: www.costsproject.co.uk.

WHERE YOU SEE: read more... visit: www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk for the full article

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Meetings & Conferences at Hilton Avisford Park Meeting Package Includes the Following:Use of Meeting room from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Unlimited tea and coffee Buffet lunch Screen Flip chart Pads, Pens & Mineral Water Let the Hilton Avisford Park feed your imagination…… Indulge yourself with the finest of food, drink and first class service. As few as 20 or as many as 350 guests, the Hilton Avisford Park Hotel is the perfect venue for the perfect event.

Free use of LCD Projector – normally £150.00 (subject to availability) VAT at current rate & all service charges £30.00 per person Minimum numbers for the above package are set at 10; Please quote Arun Business at time of booking to receive special rates, subject to availability; normal hotel terms & conditions apply.

Every room has its own very different characteristics and ambience and we have several beautifully appointed rooms.

Special Offer for 2010! Meetings Package From £30.00 per person

Overview of Facilities

138 bedrooms with views over the grounds 89 acres of parklands

17 flexible function rooms Dedicated event support

In house spa & beauty treatments 270 free car parking spaces Helipad

Why not gain a little more & sign up for a Hilton honours card & receive points for your event which can then equate to either air miles or days away To take advantage of our special offer please contact our sales team on +44 (0)1243 558303