Regional Focus

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

FRENCH CHAMBER OF GREAT BRITAIN www.frenchchamber.co.uk

Regional Focus Doing Business Outside London

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

An interview with French Ambassador HE Jean-Pierre Jouyet Five minutes with Rob Goodhew, CEO, SPIE UK Brexit insight & analysis and much more…

A N G L O - F R E N C H

B U S I N E S S

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2018

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EDITORIAL

Fabienne Viala

T

he great breadth of the UK and its regions offers unique challenges and opportunities for the business community. French businesses have been at the heart of this regional activity, and continue to play an important part of regional economies, development and infrastructure.

When thinking about UK regions, it is often in the long shadow of the capital. London is undoubtedly a major player in the world of business. According to a recent ONS report, London continues to be the region with the largest number of businesses, representing roughly twenty percent of the UK total. Yet the business ecosystem outside the capital is dynamic for both new and established companies.

This issue of the magazine will take an in-depth look both at the activity of our members in the regions and at the economic performance (and potential) of doing business outside the capital.

In these pages, regional performance indicators are analysed by two of the big four – KPMG and EY. We have contributions from large and small companies working in various corners of the country – from Total’s oil & gas business in Scotland to AMJ IT delivering digital solutions from their Kent HQ in the South East, and much more.

In this issue we also speak with HE Mr Jean-Pierre Jouyet, French Ambassador to the UK. In this exclusive interview, the Ambassador reflects on his first year in the role, his latest views on the Brexit negotiations, and the strength of doing business in the UK. This magazine is also packed with reports from the many forums, clubs and events that the Chamber held in the first part of the autumn. As a new President of the Board, I am excited to meet many of you throughout this busy calendar of events.

I also look forward to working with my Deputy President, Stephen Burgin, our Board of Directors, our Managing Director, Florence Gomez, and her team to continue the French Chamber’s mission in supporting and developing French and British businesses and help them to successfully grow.

Let me conclude by thanking the outgoing President, Estelle Brachlianoff. I will continue Estelle’s work and make sure that we serve all our members in the best way, every day. I look forward to seeing them all very soon. I

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Regional Focus

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T H E

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

A N G L O - F R E N C H

FRENCH CHAMBER OF GREAT BRITAIN www.frenchchamber.co.uk

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Culture: What's on Book reviews by Institut Français Feature: Le Crxssing Wine Story by Thibault Lavergne

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55 Introduction by Florence Gomez 56 Chamber News 57 New Members

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FORUMS & CLUBS

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Introduction Infographic Regional next steps Yael Selfin, KPMG Fastest-growing regions NatWest Business Hub Consumer powerhouses Rob Cowling, Irwin Mitchell Return to Liverpool Stephen Burgin, French Chamber A very British-French company Mike Sangster, Total Rebalancing the UK economy EY Regional Economic Forecast A place where business thrives Ken Skates, Welsh government Midlands 5G implementation Suzanne Lycett, French Chamber Looking beyond the capital Avril Jolliffe, Thales UK UK expansion Sarah Plans, AMJ IT Regional real estate Andrew Marston, CBRE A British footprint Valentin Ramousse, Emperor

Doing Business outside London

An interview with the French Ambassador Jean-Pierre Jouyet Five minutes with Rob Goodhew, CEO, SPIE UK A regional economic overview and much more…

Managing Director: Florence Gomez Editor: Jakob von Baeyer Cover & Graphic Design: Katherine Millet Production Manager: Suzanne Lycett

Start-up & SME Club Converting leads Climate Change & Sustainability Forum The passive house Retail Forum E-commerce & social media HR Forum Employee engagement Digital Transformation & Innovation Forum Cyber security & digital fraud Luxury Club Film screening at the Institut Français Finance Forum Fintech solutions Forthcoming Forums & Clubs

Contributors: Andrew Gray, Samar Shams, Avril Jolliffe, Yael Selfin, Rob Cowling, Mike Sangster, Ken Skates, Sarah Plans, Andrew Marston, Valentin Ramouse, Stephen Burgin, Suzanne Lycett, Thibault Lavergne

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Regional Focus

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2018

Five minutes with...

Rob Goodhew, SPIE UK Ambassador's Breif HE Jean-Pierre Jouyet Brexit: Analysis and Insight Business News Scale-up profile: Drivy Start-up story: Peppy Baby Reports & research

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info

- november / december 2018 - 5

Five minutes with...

Rob Goodhew CEO, SPIE UK

Delivering work to the highest standards in both the engineering and maintenance arenas is at the heart of SPIE’s client-centric approach What are SPIE’s main activities in the UK? Quite simply, SPIE UK is a smart engineering and technology

quickly, so to give clients prompt solutions to the challenges

driven solutions provider for the built environment. We design,

they face.

optimise and manage smart spaces and places, leveraging

Given the range of expertise SPIE has developed in order

emerging technologies for our customers and improving

to support our new business strategy, we are engaging more

where people work, learn and live.

with our clients to present opportunities for the challenges

Electrical, mechanical, HVAC and technical facilities

they are facing. This is what drives us to work closely with our

management comprise SPIE’s more traditional engineering

clients to develop long standing relationships, where we can

undertakings. This entails working with clients to understand

improve the performance of their operations. We do this by

what their challenges are and creating engineering solutions

providing them with quality solutions that contribute to their

that give them a return on their investment – improving

business results. This can involve smart solutions that are

efficiency, reducing risk and making it a more comfortable and

based on brilliant engineering to create high performance

healthy environment for people.

environments and infrastructures.

The technical facilities management side of the business enables SPIE to provide our customers with a complete ‘cradle

How are you changing the way UK cities work?

to grave’ solution. So, having completed and commissioned a

What SPIE is looking to achieve within the urban environment

space, SPIE can then manage the running and optimisation of

is to make it easier to use, more enjoyable and more

that solution to give clients a whole life cost model.

productive for the people living in our cities through the application of engineering expertise. That includes

What has been your experience of building the brand in

infrastructure, sustainability and wellbeing. It’s about

the UK?

connecting buildings, people and infrastructure through

As a business, SPIE UK has been through a period of transition,

‘smart’ systems.

which in essence began with my appointment in May of last

One of our key focuses for the business at the moment is

year. My experience has been that it’s about much more than

electrical vehicle charging and indeed SPIE is working with a

creating and communicating the vision, but that’s almost the

number of city authorities to improve the existing fragmented

easy bit.

electric vehicle charging network across the UK. This aligns

The most important thing has been the commitment of

strongly with our work in other areas of energy transition such

everyone in the business, from the board to those working out

as the installation of renewable energy sources. SPIE’s purpose

in the field, to building the brand and demonstrating it to our

is to integrate these myriad technologies together, combining

clients through delivery – words are easy enough, actions are

them with intelligent management platforms to create truly

the real proof.

sustainable energy networks.

With SPIE UK having 3000 people in the organisation,

This, of course, isn’t the entirety of what SPIE is doing in the

understanding our clients’ needs is fundamental. Our client-

urban environment, but what it does highlight is our role in the

facing teams can articulate and communicate the full service

smart city space as an integrator. When people think of smart

offering and can assist them to liaise with our in-house experts

cities, they most likely think about technology companies being

6 - info - november / december 2018

FIVE MINUTES WITH... ROB GOODHE W

One of our key focuses for the business at the moment is electrical vehicle charging and indeed SPIE is working with a number of city authorities to improve the existing fragmented electric vehicle charging network across the UK. This aligns strongly with our work in other areas of energy transition such as the installation of renewable energy sources

behind them, but the truth is, in order to successfully design

job raising awareness through numerous internal and

and build a city you need engineering expertise. SPIE’s role is

external events and other initiatives such as recently gathering

to provide engineering solutions that are technology-driven,

members from across the SPIE group to run the women only

aligning with the needs of our clients and the supply chain to

La Parisienne 10K race.

add value to people’s lives.

Taking into account the environments we work in, quite rightfully, another priority for us is health and safety. The

What priorities do you have for digital innovation?

safety of our employees is, and continues to be, of paramount

For SPIE UK digital innovation is about collaborative working.

importance to us which is why we’re always investing heavily

Like many companies, we’re using it to implement our

in training and awareness programmes. The business has

engineering solutions and the improvement of the delivery

recently begun some new innovative behavioural health

process to benefit our clients by helping them achieve their

and safety initiatives which are aimed at ensuring that our

business goals.

processes and standards are kept to the very highest levels.

For our clients we’re working to help them deploy digital innovation that meets their objectives. SPIE is continuing to

What has been the impact of Brexit on your business?

develop technology platforms that can enable the secure and

Looking at the order intake, the business is holding up

intelligent gathering of data from a range of sources. This isn’t

extremely well. Because SPIE UK focus on Tier One clients with

collecting data for the sake of collecting data. The purpose

whom we have direct relationships across a diverse portfolio,

is to use it to instruct future efficiency projects that clients

we’re coping well in what are clearly quite uncertain times.

should undertake, ensuring they are investing in the areas of

What we are seeing is that uncertainty as a result of Brexit is

their buildings or machinery where they need to.

beginning to lengthen the decision-making process for our clients as they wait to see the outcome.

What other priorities do you have for the business?

SPIE UK has a Brexit Taskforce which is monitoring the

First and foremost, our priority has to be our people. By virtue

ongoing negotiations and we’re confident that we have a

of having such a large workforce spread all across the United

business that is robust enough that we can continue to be

Kingdom we also have an incredibly diverse workforce. This

successful. Of course, for us and our clients, what’s important

continuously proves to be a great asset to the business, as it

is that an outcome, whatever that may be, is reached,

regularly brings people with different experiences and points

because once a decision has been made we can begin to act

of view together to solve the same problems.

accordingly and continue to help our clients be successful and

Being in the engineering industry we understand, and take

meet their objectives.

very seriously, our responsibility to help encourage, nurture and develop the next generation of engineers which will be

What does being a Patron member of the French Chamber

critical, not only for our future success, but for the continuing

mean for SPIE?

usefulness of the industry as a whole.

We’re very proud to have been a Patron member for the past

This goes hand in hand with encouraging more women

eight years and value the role that we play in several group

to choose a career in engineering. A big priority for us is

committees within the Chamber. The networking opportunities

the continued development of our So’SPIE Ladies network,

have proven to be particularly valuable, giving us the

whose entire purpose is to champion the role of women in

opportunity to debate key issues and provide a forum within

our industry both within the global business and out in the

which we’ve been able to forge some important relationships

wider world. The So’SPIE Ladies network has done a brilliant

with other businesses. I Interview by JvB

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- november / december 2018 - 7

HE Jean-Pierre Jouyet

French Ambassador to the UK

INFO speaks with the French Ambassador to the UK on the anniversary of his first year in London Your main mission arriving in the UK was to maintain and

that backdrop, businesses have to prepare and adapt. To

enhance the Franco-British relationship in the context of

help smooth these possible obstacles, France is implementing

Brexit. How has this mission progressed since this time

a credible pro-business agenda it hopes will serve, through

last year?

growth, fellow citizens of both our countries.

The 35th Franco-British Summit this past January represented an opportunity to highlight the importance of our bilateral

What is the most significant thing you have learned about

relationship in every sector - from energy to security, to

the British over this time?

university and research cooperation. On this occasion,

If I had to single out one, it would be that British politics

our countries signed the Sandhurst Treaty to deepen our

is much more complex and rich than first meets the eye.

collaboration in border management. Our cooperation in this

The differences within and between different parties run

field, as well as security in general has proven very successful.

much deeper and are denser than one would think. I find it

Within the framework of the Lancaster House Treaty,

fascinating.

we’ve also pledged to work together in the fields of defence and security, to better tackle the pressing issues of online

You have recently visited several British regions. How

radicalisation or growing threats abroad - namely terrorism.

has this experience influenced your understanding of the

These are just a few examples of the concrete initiatives

country?

illustrating France and the UK’s willingness to intensify and

Travelling across the UK has left a deep impression on me. It

deepen our relationship in every field. The UK is one of our

has helped me experience and understand the social, cultural,

most important partners at the international level; few other

linguistic, and ethnic wealth of this nation of nations. I’ve been

countries have as similar a world view as we do. Enhancing our

to cities such as Stevenage and Folkestone, but also capitals

relationship is therefore an essential priority.

such as Cardiff and Edinburgh. As Ambassador, it is very important for me to be sensitive to this richness to conduct

Does the attractiveness of other European and non-

my missions to the best of my ability. France has historical ties

European countries put French activities in the UK in

to the different nations which make up the UK - which stretch

jeopardy?

back to before they were united under a single kingdom.

Why are French businesses in the UK? Because they believe

My visits have therefore, I’d say, given me a much deeper

they can make a difference for consumers of the domestic

understanding of the complexity and richness of the UK.

market. Look at where they are represented: utilities, energy,

I’d also add that my travels have given me a richer

transport, luxury, agriculture, financial services. The list goes

understanding of Brexit and its perceptions across the UK.

on. Should they be afraid of competition in general? I trust that

Contrary to London, where Brexit remains the overarching

they are abroad in general and in the UK in particular because

topic, discussed and debated morning, day, and evening, I

they are competitive. The UK market is not for businesses

have found that the preoccupations of people living in the rest

which are not ready to tackle a tough competition.

of the UK were more linked to the economy, employment, or

The UK’s exit from the EU will undoubtedly have consequences for businesses in the UK. Exchanges with the EU will no longer be as frictionless as they are today. Against 8 - info - november / december 2018

social policies. It is something of fundamental importance which I discovered while journeying across the country.

A M B A S S A D O R ' S B R I E F. . . H E J E A N - P I E R R E J O U Y E T

Contrary to London, where Brexit remains the overarching topic, discussed and debated morning, day, and evening, I have found that the preoccupations of people living in the rest of the UK were more linked to the economy, employment, or social policies

The UK has benefitted from French involvement in sectors

remains the most fought and contested across all of Europe,

such as transport, defence and energy. Where do you see

and is, in my view, the most interesting to follow. This is

new opportunities for French businesses coming into the

primarily due to the concentration of excellent teams across

UK?

the country: Manchester City, Manchester United and

It is difficult to think in sectoral terms due to a blending of

Liverpool in the north, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham in

borders between sectors: for instance cars are becoming

London.

To refer back to your previous question - it’s also

more and more digital and the industry is more and more service intensive. We are not only talking about ‘coming to

interesting to consider sports’ talent as an important French

the UK’ because the UK is often a piece in a wider puzzle.

export. Many footballers in the UK’s best clubs are French,

Companies also think in terms of cooperation. The field of

which is certainly something to be proud of!

cooperation in the UK is wide, from digital economy (AI, open government, etc.) to renewable energies; from data economy

Have you had a chance to attend Wimbledon?

to zero emission vehicles. The field of smart cities also opens a

Unfortunately, I haven’t been to Wimbledon yet. I was invited

huge range of possibilities for our companies.

to the men’s final this year, but could not make it in the end.

Finally, the UK’s start-up and tech scene has been

I had no choice but to go to the French Institute in London

attracting numerous young French entrepreneurs who want to

instead, to join hundreds of French supporters to watch the

take advantage of the UK’s vibrant environment. The financial

Football World Cup final, which resulted in a fantastic French

sector – and in particular, private equity – also continues to

victory, as I’m sure you know! It was such an exciting day, with

offer significant opportunities for French businesses.

an electric atmosphere. It is a day I won’t forget!

What differentiates French products in the UK?

We have benefitted greatly from your involvement in

It is probably the blend of industry and craftsmanship which

Chamber activities. What has been most valuable to you

make our consumer goods so popular, especially in the

about the work of the French Chamber?

luxury and food industries. Our signature is a mix of industrial

The Chamber gathers a formidable network of experienced

approach with artisanal excellence.

professionals ranging from big corporations to start-ups who

But this excellence also expresses itself in our citizen’s

exchange in a climate of confidence. For an Ambassador,

know-how and competences in the fields of math, engineering,

the most valuable part of the Chamber’s work is probably

finance, and quantitative analysis. In many ways one of the

the quality of the debate it allows across the several forums,

most important French products we export is knowledge,

formal or informal, it set up. This gives a cross-sector

which is nurtured in our world-class universities and schools.

understanding of the preoccupations of the businesses

These passionate individuals give their best and apply their

involved in the Franco-British relationships. This understanding

creativity and critical analysis in their jobs. This is why some

is sometimes strategic and sometimes practical, but in any

of the world’s most important industrial groups are French:

case, it allows us to make connections between issues and

they developed from this strong background of excellence

better know our two countries and defend French interests,

to become world leaders in their fields, be it in utilities,

which is very valuable for someone representing France in the

transportation, aeronautics – and increasingly, tech – to name

UK.

a few.

I’d also like to add that I have been very impressed by the French Chamber’s charitable activity. It is humbling to see the

You are a football supporter. Have you changed your view

work it has done for a number of very important causes. I

on British football since arriving here?

Interview by JvB

Actually, my view hasn’t changed. The UK’s Championship

info

- november / december 2018 - 9

Analysis and look ahead INFO looks at the latest news on Brexit and its impact on the Franco-British community

I

t is Groundhog Day for Irish border negotiations. Neither

under EU rule, with no decision making power. Stephen

side is backing down. The EU still supports a backstop, with

Phipson, Director General of the manufacturers’ association

Northern Ireland part of the EU Customs Union. The UK wants

EEF says this is a ‘pragmatic and sensible offer.’ The Brexiteer

no hard border but also no customs border between Northern

MP John Redwood says it is ‘unacceptable.’

Ireland and Great Britain.

May isn’t just contending with MPs and the EU. Protestors

The Northern Irish unionists threaten to vote down the

gathered in the streets of London to demand a ‘People’s Vote.’

budget if new barriers are created between Northern Ireland

Organisers say it was the largest protest since the anti-war

and Great Britain. This would put strain on the slim majority

demonstrations in 2003. Nearly 700,000 attended.

held by PM Theresa May, dependent on DUP support. A vote of no confidence on the PM could follow.

In November, the government will trigger no deal preparations. Currently, there is no EU summit planned for

In Scotland, SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon has outlined her position, for a nation that voted 62 percent to remain in the EU. Sturgeon says that if Northern Ireland remains part of the single market, Scotland wants the same treatment.

May has accepted the principal of an extension of the

November. A December summit would leave limited time to vote on a deal and then enact appropriate legislation.

The EU and the UK, Brexiters and Remainers. All hope the other side will blink first; the ‘no deal’ option may yet be stumbled into, eyes wide open. I SL

transition period to avoid a backstop. The catch? Extra time

Key dates House of Commons approval

Brexit Day

Trade talks & transition

(Late December-early January)

(March 2019)

(30 March 2019 and onwards)

After a withdrawal treaty has been

If a deal is agreed, the start of a smooth

Trade talks now begin between the UK

agreed between the EU and the UK,

transition. If no deal, a more chaotic

and EU countries. During the transition,

the deal will move to the House of

version may ensue.

most EU membership features will still

Commons for a ‘meaningful vote’.

The Brexit talks are not about me or my personal fortunes. They’re about the national interest – and that means making the right choices, not the easy ones THERESA MAY, UK Prime Minister, on 21 October

apply, but with no British vote.

We’re at the end stage of the negotiations. I think it’s understandable that there are jitters on all sides of this debate. We need to hold our nerve; the end is in sight in terms of […] the prize that we want: a good deal with the EU DOMINIC RAAB, Brexit Secretary, on 21 October

info

- november / december 2018 - 11

Sponsored by

Impact of BREXIT on industry and UK Regions Brexit progress and business concerns were addressed in the September Brexit Forum

O

n 5th September, the Brexit Forum

DExEU’s objective is to find the

inflation. He also notes a slow-down in

welcomed as speakers Sam

‘right balance between access [to the

Brand, Deputy Director, Market Access

common market] and obligations [to

Analysis and Insight, Department for

the EU].’ However, they recognise that

agreements that have been reached are

Exiting the European Union (DExEU),

‘access [to the common market] will not

not business concerns. For example,

and Andrew Sentance CBE, Former

be as good as it was before.’

access to the common market is one of

Member of the Bank of England's

At this stage, there is a

employment and in worker immigration.

He argues that the 80 percent of

the principal concerns of the business

Monetary Policy Committee and Senior

parliamentary lock threatening any

community, and this has not yet been

Economic Adviser to PwC. The session

agreement. But, as Brand says, we ‘don’t

properly addressed.

was chaired by Angela Hepworth,

want a no-deal scenario’.

Corporate Policy and Regulation

The suggested solution in the event of no deal, to operate under World

Director, EDF Energy and Neil Sherlock

Business concerns

Trade Organisation rules, only offers

CBE, Senior Adviser, PwC.

Sentance was less optimistic on

a solution for goods, not services. The

the progress. Professional services

whitepaper admits the need to concede

A Brexit timeline

company PwC has predicted that Brexit

on services, despite the UK having a

Brand outlined the progress made this

will impact the economy by 2-3 percent

strong bias amongst the G7 countries

year. By June 2018, 80 percent of joint

negatively if a trade deal is agreed. In

towards services over manufacturing.

agreements had been decided between

the case of a ‘no deal’ this would 4-5

The final nature of the deal will

the UK and EU.

percent.

A whitepaper was published in July

Sentance says ‘we have already seen

affect how companies will react and whether they will choose to relocate.

which laid out these plans in more

a negative impact from Brexit on the

They are not yet taking direct action.

detail. The core consideration of the

UK.’ He highlights the fall in the value

He says that finalising an agreement by

report is to ensure the EU/UK free trade

of the pound, leading to a decrease in

2020 therefore ‘seems to be unrealistic

area is frictionless through a common

consumer spending and an increase in

to me’.

The whitepaper admits the need to concede on services, despite the UK having a strong bias amongst the G7 countries towards services over manufacturing

is our best hope.’ Membership of the

rulebook.

The rulebook would aim to cover: • The maintenance of certain standards (e.g. environmental) • Free movement of labour • Joint institutional frameworks e.g. EU Court of justice • A facilitated customs arrangement with UK acting as an agent of the EU • The maintenance of security processes

As such, he says ‘a long transition European Economic Area could offer a model for an extended transitional period but, with no free movement of people, it crosses the UK government’s red line.

He urges us to remember that, regardless of how well we negotiate, ‘the boot is very much on the EU’s foot.’ I SL

BREXIT IN UK REGIONS • UK regions have an even distribution of jobs in the manufacturing industry, roughly 8 percent in each region.

• There is a bias towards financial and business services in London; however business and financial services are the biggest contributor to GDP in every region.

• The regional impact – including FDI – of Brexit on the UK is predicted to be equal and shared across regions.

• There needs to be a strategic approach to stimulate investment to all regions of the UK.

12 - info - november / december 2018

Preparing for BREXIT Companies should be acting now to ready themselves for March 2019 says Andrew Gray, Head of Brexit, PwC UK

W

ith under five months to go until the UK leaves the

‘A transfer of trade may require lengthy preparation, such as

EU there is increasing discussion about how ‘ready’

delineating the covered assets, carving them out from the rest

organisation are for new trading and border arrangements.

of the business if necessary, before effectively transferring them

And this is particularly true for businesses based in the UK with

to a pre-existing structure.’

continental ownership or subsidiaries where certain factors will have a bigger impact than on wholly UK owned organisations.

Contingency plans

The biggest risks flow from a ‘no deal’ outcome – and, whilst

So, with this in mind what can businesses do now to be ready,

we are increasingly close to a deal being agreed, until one is fully

no matter where the negotiations take us? Here are eight ‘no

ratified, all businesses should prepare. The greatest urgency

regret’ decisions all businesses should take now to lay the

whether there is a deal or not, is for those with regulatory and

groundwork for future trading beyond Brexit:

operational complexity.

• Support your people

Inevitably those in the ‘red zone’ include the highly regulated

• Know your supply chain

sectors. But, outside of heavily regulated sectors such as

• Clean up your current data

Financial Services, there is a recurring theme - that the nature

• Think about new data requirements

of our future relationship with the EU feels too uncertain for

• Take advantage of existing government schemes

many businesses to make change now.

• Check out your contracts • Engage with key 3rd parties

Preparing for day one

• Plan to be agile

The UK will leave the EU in March 2019, with either a deal and

‘Financial services have been ahead of the curve in preparing

transition period, or no deal, but either way the details of our

for Brexit. Now other sectors are seen taking action, such as

future relationship with the EU may not be known for years.

automotive, aerospace and pharma. Sometimes, companies

However, the potential scenarios for that relationship, and the

are asked to prepare contingency plans by their large clients as

‘red lines’ both the UK and EU have insisted on, mean there are

we have seen in the automotive industry,’ says Picq.

fewer variables now than there may seem.

Perhaps the most important no regret decision is ‘plan to be

Moreover, there are some changes that are now more likely

agile’ - whilst there is uncertainty in the political environment,

than not whatever happens next. Time is short, and businesses

businesses can now prepare to respond to new developments.

need to move from reviewing and planning to activate these plans now, to make sure they are ready on day one.

Appointing a ‘Head of Brexit’ and forming a dedicated body accountable for understanding what future events mean for

‘One example is where your business would need to set up a

your organisation, and identify the ‘triggers’ for action, will help

presence on the continent or even transfer a trade from the UK

you remain agile and quickly mitigate risks as they occur, as well

to the continent. The new set-up may require not only planning

as taking advantage from opportunities that arise.

but also finding the right location, recruiting the right people

The clear message is that now is the time to act for all

and in some sectors, obtaining the necessary authorisations,’

businesses; whether the actions you need to take are large or

says Emmanuel Picq, Partner at PwC Société d’Avocats and

small, the 29 March is now not far away. I

Operational complexity

Brexit coordinator for PwC France.

Manufacturing Retail

Chemicals

Energy and utilities

Hospitality Public sector

Small and micro

Financial services

Pharma

Transport

Professional services

Regulatory complexity info

- november / december 2018 - 13

The UK’s settlement scheme explained Samar Shams, Head of Immigration at Downs Solicitors explores the details of the proposed settlement scheme

T

he government is implementing a settlement scheme for

WHAT CAN WE APPLY FOR UNDER THE SCHEME?

EU nationals and their family members, which will open

EU nationals and their family members who hold documentation

fully from 30 March 2019. The EU settlement scheme provides

of permanent residence or have been resident in the UK for at

for rights for EU nationals and their family members under UK

least 5 years may be eligible for settled status, or indefinite leave

immigration rules; the scheme is distinct from the EU-based

to remain. Those who have not been here for 5 years may be

rights from which they currently benefit.

eligible for pre-settled status, and for settled status once they have accrued 5 years’ residence.

DATES AND DEADLINES

Both pre-settled and settled individuals will be able to work

The settlement scheme is being introduced in phases. It

or study in the UK, use the NHS and access benefits. Settled

opened on 28 August 2018. Until 21 December 2018, EU

individuals may be eligible to apply for British citizenship after

citizens working in the higher education, health and social care

holding settled status for one year. Children born in the UK to

sectors, and their family members are eligible to apply. The pool

settled migrants are British citizens; those born to pre-settled

of eligible applicants will expand again in January 2019, when

migrants are not. Settled status can be lost if an individual is

the next phase of testing will begin. Subject to the outcome of

absent from the UK for 5 years. Pre-settled status can be lost

ongoing negotiations, the UK proposes to extend the settlement

after 2 years’ absence.

scheme to EEA and Swiss citizens.

Those to whom the scheme applies are required to make

THE APPLICATION PROCESS

their applications by 30 June 2021. Requiring an entire category

The application process will be available online and accessible

of legal migrants to register in this way to avoid becoming illegal

via mobile phones. It will consist of the following steps:

is unprecedented in the UK as far as we are aware. Generally,

1. Providing personal details such as name, address,

the settlement scheme applies to EU nationals and their family

passport number and/or national insurance number;

members who are in or come to the UK before 31 December

2. Verification of identity using a passport, ID card, or

2020. Certain family members will be able to register beyond

biometric residence card or biometric residence permit. EU

that date. People will also be allowed to register after the 30

nationals will be able to use an app to scan their passports

June 2021 deadline, where there are reasonable grounds for

with an Android (but not an Apple) phone or tablet.

not respecting the deadline.

Applicants may also be able to attend a service centre to

The government published a statement of intent in June 2018

use the app. Applicants will be required to upload a recent

which confirms that EU nationals and some family members

digital photograph;

arriving before the end of the transition or ‘implementation

3. Proving residence: Applicants can give the Home Office

period’, which runs from 30 March 2019 to 31 December 2020,

permission to check employment and benefit information

will continue to benefit from the most of the EU regulations

electronically with other government departments to

currently in force: They will have a right to enter and an initial

confirm residence.

right to reside for three months; EU nationals will have the

permission, or whose government-held data is insufficient,

right to work, study, be self-employed or be self-sufficient; EU

scanned copies of residence documents will be required.

nationals’ family members will have the rights to reside and to

Examples of acceptable documentation include bank

work; EU nationals and their family members will have a right of

statements, annual business accounts of a self-employed

permanent residence after 5 years.

person, and council tax bills. The scheme will not seek to

For those who do not wish to give

EU nationals and most of their family members arriving

verify that applicants have been exercising treaty rights

in the UK after the end of the implementation period, i.e.

by working, being self-employed, etc.. Only residence will

from 1 January 2021, will be subject to the new immigration

be verified.

framework about which the government has published very

insurance will not be required for settlement applications.

little to date. The Migration Advisory Committee published its

4. Applicants will also have to declare that they have no

final report on EEA migration on 18 September 2018, making

serious criminal convictions;

recommendations for the immigration framework to be

5. Payment.

implemented from 1 January 2021.

14 - info - november / december 2018

Documentation of comprehensive sickness

Documentation required of family members will be those that establish the family relationship, e.g. birth certificate and

jurisdiction of the Court of Justice of the European Union are ongoing.

marriage certificate, and proof of UK residence of the EU national. These can be scanned and submitted via the online

APPLY FOR DOCUMENTATION OF EU RIGHTS NOW

application form.

Unmarried partners will have to provide

The Government has maintained that EU nationals and their

documentation of their EEA rights, e.g. a Registration Certificate,

family members need not apply for documentation under

and unless they have permanent residence, they will also need

the current regulations, because the settlement scheme

to provide evidence that the relationship is subsisting, e.g.

applications will be so simple. However, there are many reasons

official correspondence addressed to the couple jointly at the

why EU nationals and their family members might apply for

same address.

documentation now, as follows:

Non-EU family members will also have to attend an

1. Those who have permanent residence rights and would

application centre to provide biometric data, in the form of a

like to apply for citizenship would do best to proceed with

digital photograph and fingerscans, if they do not already have

applications now, as they will need to evidence having

a Biometric Residence Card.

acquired permanent residence at least one year before

Applications for pre-settled status and settled status will

applying for citizenship. Only EU nationals who are married

cost £65 for adults and £32.50 for children. Where someone

to British Citizens will be eligible to apply for citizenship

applies for pre-settled status and pays the relevant fee,

directly upon obtaining settled status.

their subsequent application for settled status will be free

2. Obtaining a permanent residence document now will

after Brexit. For those who already have documentation of

facilitate the application for settled status later.

Permanent Residence, the application for settled status will

3. Obtaining documentation now confirms EU rights, whilst

be free. The statement of intent indicates that applicants will

documentation obtained under the settled status scheme

have to permanently surrender their permanent residence

confers UK-based status. This may be significant for those

document when applying for settled status.

EU nationals wishing to move to another EU state that is not

Applications made by families at the same time will be processed together.

their home state and for questions of recourse to European courts and appeal rights.

Most approved applicants will not receive a physical

4. Regardless of the information provided by the Home

document. Rather, they will receive proof of their status through

Office, we do not know how well the settled status scheme

an online service.

application processes will work. The Home Office does not

Only non-EU national family members

will receive a physical document, in the form of a Biometric

have a great track record with digital processes.

Residence Permit card, if they do not already have one. A digital

5. UK pre-settled status and settled status holders will be

document confirming that an application has been made, called

at the mercy of negotiators and UK lawmakers, for whom

a certificate of application for residence status, will be issued

‘nothing is decided until everything is decided.’

when an application is made.

To be eligible for settled status, those who do not already

Students and self-sufficient people who are subject to the

have a documented right of permanent residence should not

requirements to hold comprehensive sickness insurance and

have absences totalling more than 6 months in a 12-month

do not have it might decide to wait for the settlement scheme

period; one absence of up to 12 months is permitted for a good

process to open to apply for documentation, and Irish nationals

reason such as work or maternity/childbirth. Once acquired,

do not have much incentive to apply for documentation of EU-

the right of permanent residence will be lost after a period of

based rights. For other EU nationals, the safest approach is

absence from the UK of five consecutive years.

to apply for documentation of EU rights now, and to apply for

The Home Office proposes that applicants will have access to an administrative review process and, from 30 March 2019,

documentation of UK rights when the UK settlement scheme is fully open. I

to an appeal process. Applicants can also reapply at any time before the registration deadline.

UK-EU egotiations on the

info

- november / december 2018 - 15

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To find out more about our full service legal offering to SMEs and larger technology corporates, visit our website at www.brownejacobson.com

We are the founding member of PANGEA NET, a non-exclusive network of full service law firms with an international focus. To find out more visit www.pangea-net.org

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NEWS

A ND

A N A LY S I S

Counting down the years

AXA and Saint-Gobain are leading the charge towards a healthier workplace

I

nsurance giant AXA last year launched the ‘50,000 Years

percent said it improves employee productivity and business

Younger Together’ initiative, aiming to tackle mental health,

results.

obesity, high blood pressure, musculoskeletal conditions, and

‘Health and wellbeing for Saint-Gobain is a core value

other issues related to health and wellbeing in the workforce.

and […] critical to our success,’ says Kevin Crawley, Director

The programme, which has the broad goal of reducing the

of Environment, Health and Safety at Saint-Gobain UK and

working population’s ‘health age’ by 50,000 years by 2020, has

Ireland. ‘We’ve definitely seen a tangible return on investment

now been joined by seven other companies including Bayer,

through […] increased levels of engagement and motivation

GVA and Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland, who have each pledged

from our employees which in turn has resulted in better

specific targets for reducing the average health age of their

customer satisfaction and a happier workforce.’

employees.

‘50,000 Years Younger Together’ follows the success of

Engaging the unengaged

Saint-Gobain’s 2014 initiative, ‘Fit4WorkFit4Life,’ which in three

Encouraging stronger engagement at work is a priority.

years helped the company reduce the physical health age of

However, the initial challenge is to encourage engagement

their employees by more than 3,030 years. Saint-Gobain

with the programme itself.

collaborated with AXA on the programme.

Britain’s Healthiest Workplace, an annual survey by

To access the programme, employees joined the Proactive

insurance company Vitality, estimates that only 28 percent

Health Gateway, an online platform which highlights the

of employees on average used the wellness programmes

impact of the small changes they make to their lifestyle. Onsite

available. A 2018 whitepaper by recruitment consultancy

events such as health assessments and blood screenings

Robert Walters advises that a lack of promotion can lead to

encouraged engagement, as do group exercise sessions and

under-utilisation. It found that only 43 percent of organisations

sports days.

actively promoted their workplace wellness programme to

A wellbeing strategy

existing employees.

In contrast, employee engagement across Saint-Gobain’s

The uptake of AXA’s initiative shows that corporate wellbeing

17,500 employees spread over 36 business units was at

and health programmes are fast becoming a strategic

90 percent by 2016. This success hinged on well-rounded

necessity. According to a recent report by CIPD, two fifths of

communication. Targeted emails updated employees with

British companies have implemented some form of wellbeing

tangible information about their wellbeing, and monitored

strategy to support their wider organisational strategy.

progress through regular reports.

The business case for this shift is evident. In the 2018 Global

This still leaves Saint-Gobain a 10 percent engagement

Human Capital Trends survey, professional services network

margin. Fortunately, the 1,010 year deficit to reach their

Deloitte found that 60 percent of companies surveyed felt a

pledged target leaves room to progress.

wellness focus improves employee retention, while sixty-one

Roll on 2020. I SL info

- november / december 2018 - 17

S&P upgrades Crédit Agricole ratings

Saint-Gobain innovates at Edinburgh

The rating agencies S&P Global Ratings announced upgrades to the credit ratings of Crédit Agricole and its subsiduries. The long term credit ratings of Crédit Agricole Group, Crédit Agricole SA, de Crédit Agricole Regional banks, LCL, CA Consumer Finance, Crédit Agricole CIB and CACEIS are now A+, among other upgrades of subsiduries. S&P Global Ratings’ rationale for the upgrade is based on the ‘solid financial performance, a low risk profile with strong diversification and granularity of risk exposures, as well as better-than-peers coverage of impaired assets.’ I

Petrossian drops anchor at Bibendum

Petrossian, the French caviar pioneer founded in 1920, has recently forged a partnership with Claude Bosi in the UK. Claude was recently awarded two Michelin stars for his London restaurant Bibendum. Petrossian have moved into the Oyster Bar on the ground floor of the iconic Michelin building, where exceptional caviar can be enjoyed simply, in different styles. I

UBS completes Nordea acquisition

As announced in January 2018, the transaction covers the acquisition of part of Nordea Bank's business and its integration onto UBS' platform, thereby providing clients access to its global offering and local expertise. The decision followed a thorough strategic review of Nordea’s Private Banking International activities, and enables UBS to expand its presence in Europe and further build its position as a key Wealth Manager for Nordic clients in Europe. I

Saint-Gobain brands inspired students at Edinburgh college by organising an event focused on innovation. Jewson, British Gypsum, Weber, Isover and Build Aviator were just some of the Saint-Gobain brands who attended the event and demonstrated their products. Steve Chaplin, Business Development Manager for Jewson said, ‘We’re thrilled that this event was a success and hope that students have left inspired by the innovative materials and solutions they have encountered.

Colas Rail wins Network Rail award

Colas Rail’s OTM team won the award for OTM Supplier Demonstrating Operational Excellence at the Network Rail Plant Awards.

The award acknowledges plant suppliers (who enable the rail industries work to be delivered) and offers suppliers and individuals a prime opportunity to be truly recognised against real and measured attributes of excellence.

BNP Paribas Group named best for sustainable finance

For the first time, BNP Paribas has been named as the ‘World’s Best Bank for Sustainable Finance’ for 2018, by Euromoney, a leading publication in the international finance field.

BNP Paribas took 3 other prestigious awards at the ceremony held in London.

18 - info - november / december 2018

BUSINE S S WOR LD – NE WS AND ANALYSI S

LVMH celebrates apprenticeship programme

The LVMH Institut des Métiers d’Excellence (IME) vocational training programme embarked on a new year today with a ceremony at LVMH headquarters in Paris, welcoming apprentices from France and Switzerland. ‘We are delighted that the Institut des Métiers d’Excellence has inspired more than 500 young apprentices to train for careers requiring craftsmanship, creative and retail skills.

This illustrates the strength of the IME’s unique work/ study model. We are pleased that this model is continually expanding in France and other countries where there is an attractive pool of potential talent and where LVMH is present,’ said Chantal Gaemperle, LVMH Executive Vice President Human Resources and Synergies. I

European Commission acquires Thales technology

The European Commission (EC) has awarded Thales Alenia Space a contract for a ground station as an operational part of the SAR/Galileo search & rescue system. The contract includes one MEOLUT (Medium Orbit Local User Terminal), engineering support and maintenance services for one year, and the hosting site on La Reunion Island. 'Using Thales Alenia Space’s powerful and compact MEOLUT Next phased array solution, the European Commission will benefit from the world’s first spaceborne search & rescue system of this type,' said Philippe Blatt, Vice President, Navigation France at Thales Alenia Space. I

Cambridge chooses Bouygues physics laboratory

Bouygues UK, a British subsidiary of Bouygues Construction, and the University of Cambridge have signed a construction contract for the university’s Cavendish III physics laboratory and a neighbouring shared facilities hub, both designed by architect Jestico + Whiles. The contract, which was awarded by Lynxvale Limited, the university’s development arm, is worth £250 million (approximately €281 million). I

Vivendi opens African performance venue

Vivendi inaugurated its 10th CanalOlympia venue in Africa, and the second one in Lomé, Togo. Created in early 2017, CanalOlympia has become the leading network of movie theaters and live performance venues in French-speaking Africa. With a presence in seven central and western African countries, the CanalOlympia theaters have quickly found their audience. I

L’Oréal recognised by United Nations

The UN Global Compact selected L’Oréal’s Senior Vice President & Chief Ethics Officer Emmanuel Lulin as SDG PIONEER for Advancing Business Ethics. It is the first time that this recognition is awarded to a Chief Ethics Officer.‘Bringing about change requires both the long-term commitment of top management but also the daily engagement of each employee. It is only together that we can further our efforts as an ethical corporate citizen,’ said Jean-Paul Agon, Chairman and CEO of L’Oréal. I

info

- november / december 2018 - 19

Societe Generale acquires Treezor

Treezor is one of France’s pioneering Banking-as-a-Service platforms, providing services across the entire payment chain through API to many innovative financial-sector companies. The acquisition is part of Societe Generale Group's 'Transform to Grow' strategy, aimed to enhance the Group’s capabilities to deliver innovative services and products to its clients with decreased time to market. It reinforces Societe Generale’s position as one of the leading partners for Fintechs and financial institutions. I

Funding Circle lists on London Stock Exchange

Capgemini wins climate change supplier award

London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) today welcomes

Capgemini announced today that it has received the

global small business loans platform Funding Circle to the

Railsponsible Climate Change Supplier Award in the category

Main Market. Raising £300 million in primary proceeds, with

“General Services Related to Rail”. Capgemini was singled

a valuation of £1.5 billion, Funding Circle’s IPO underlines

out from 10 other nominees for its ability to help its clients

the UK’s leading position in supporting ambitious fintech

to reduce their carbon footprint through the development

companies to expand globally. Funding Circle has facilitated

of external environmental programmes and sustainable

over £5 billion in loans to over 50,000 SMEs from 80,000

solutions. Capgemini was also recognised for its ability to

investors in the UK, US, Germany and the Netherlands. I

drive the execution of its own sustainable goals and strategy.

PwC recognised for equality and inclusion

EDF Energy's Hinkley Point C powers ahead

Two years after Hinkley Point C was fully launched, the project is on track for its

PwC has been recognised for its leadership on race equality and inclusion in the workplace by being included in Business in the Community’s Best Employers for Race listing. ‘It’s great to be acknowledged as an employer taking action to build an inclusive workplace. We’ve taken a number of steps to drive equality and inclusion for our ethnic minority people, and we believe that transparency and clear targets shine a spotlight on existing pain-points and help accelerate action,’ said Laura Hinton, Chief People Officer at PwC UK. I

20 - info - november / december 2018

next major milestone in 2019 – the completion of the 4,500 tonne concrete platform on which the reactor buildings sit. This significant moment for the project is known as ‘J-0’ and has been underpinned by the successful completion of the final design for the work. EDF Energy CEO Simone Rossi said: ‘Hinkley Point C is making good progress and we are determined to honour the trust put in us to build it. Now the nuclear industry has been restarted, there is a unique opportunity to reduce costs for a follow-on project at Sizewell C.’ I

BUSINE S S WOR LD – NE WS AND ANALYSI S

Ardian acquires software publisher

Ardian, a world-leading private investment house, today announces its acquisition of a minority stake in IWD through a capital increase. This global technology company offers innovative 2D, 3D and virtual reality software through its various businesses and supports luxury brands in their retail and merchandising strategies as well as in their training programmes. I

International SOS wins mobility award

Morgan Lewis recognised for women’s advancement

solution won the Most Innovative Use of Technology in

Forum of Executive Women Advancing Women Company

Global Mobility (Assignee Management) award, which

Award as part of the Philadelphia Business Journal’s 2018

recognises exceptional solutions for end-to-end travel risk

Women of Distinction Awards. This year, the Advancing

management, at the FEM APAC Summit held at the Singapore

Women Company Award was given to companies that have

Expo – MAX Atria. The FEM EMMAs are the premier awards

demonstrated a commitment to advancing women in the

for the global mobility and human resources industry. I

workplace. I

International SOS’s Digital Travel Risk Management (DTRM)

Morgan Lewis has been named a global winner of The

AccorHotels acquires Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts

AccorHotels announces that the acquisition of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has been completed. In addition to its core hospitality business, AccorHotels has successfully expanded its range of services, becoming the world leader in luxury private residence rental with more than 10,000 stunning properties around the world. The Group is also active in the fields of concierge services, co-working, dining, events management and digital solutions.

SPIE secures agreement with Gatwick airport

SPIE UK has secured an M&E Framework agreement with Gatwick Airport Limited. Under the agreement, SPIE has also been selected as Principal Contractor for the chiller replacement works at the airport.

This will be the first contract secured under the 4-year contract which is valued at £2m per annum. The contract was awarded based on both SPIE’s commercial and technical submission and signals the continuation of the company’s long-standing relationship with Gatwick.

info

- november / december 2018 - 21

Cripps and Pemberton Greenish announce merger

Cripps and Pemberton Greenish are merging to form one of the country’s leading legal practices focusing on real estate, private wealth and growing businesses. Cripps is a leading firm in the south east with a substantial client base in London. Pemberton Greenish has an established reputation in prime central London, particularly for its work for large property businesses and in private wealth.

Air France-KLM launches Blockchain technology

Air France-KLM and Winding Tree have announced a new partnership to develop Blockchain technology in the travel industry.

The aim of this new agreement is to provide a more advantageous travel offer for customers which is more profitable for suppliers, in particular by reducing the number of intermediaries. ‘With Blockchain technology, we aim to revolutionize exchanges within the travel industry for our customers, companies and start-ups,’ said Sonia Barrière, EVP Strategy and Innovation at Air France-KLM.

Euronext Dublin acquisition complete

The migration of Euronext Dublin’s Cash Market to Euronext’s trading platform Optiq® is now planned in February 2019, subject to regulatory approval.The migration to Optiq®, Euronext’s proprietary trading platform, will allow Euronext Dublin trading members and investors to benefit from access to trading across all cash equity asset classes available on Euronext’s pan-European exchanges. Euronext and Deutsche Börse will work together actively to ensure a smooth transition.

BNP Paribas finalises acquisition of ABN AMRO

Following the agreement signed in February 2018 concerning the acquisition, by BGL BNP Paribas, of all the outstanding shares in ABN AMRO Bank (Luxembourg) S.A. and of its fully owned subsidiary ABN AMRO Life S.A., BGL BNP Paribas announces that the transaction was completed on 3 September 2018. As part of this transaction, the insurance company has been taken over by Cardif Lux Vie. I

Orange partners with PCCW Global

During Capacity Europe 2018, the largest carrier event in Europe, Orange & PCCW Global have announced a partnership for the new submarine cable PEACE (Pakistan & East Africa Connecting Europe), a 12,000 km long, privately owned system expected to be ready for service in 2020. The project plans to connect Pakistan, Djibouti, Kenya, Egypt and France. A further southern expansion to South Africa is planned for the phase 2. I

Deloitte role models recognised for LGBT+ inclusion

Four Deloitte role models have made it onto this year’s OUTstanding business role model lists, published in today’s Financial Times. They include Deloitte’s CEO, David Sproul, ranked 22nd and managing partner for talent Emma Codd, ranked 34th on the 50 Ally Executives list. Will Smith, a partner who sponsors Deloitte’s LGBT+ network GLOBE is at number 60 in the 100 LGBT+ Executives. I 22 - info - november / december 2018

BUSINE S S WOR LD – SC ALE - UP PROFILE

The asset in your driveway One year on from the launch of car sharing app Drivy in the UK, INFO speaks with Katy Medlock, Managing Director UK

We have made it so convenient to share that you don’t actually need to own a car anymore

What is the concept behind Drivy?

every ten minutes. We’re focusing on

from your competition?

Drivy is an app that allows you to rent

proximity, simplicity, and convenience.

There are two main differences. Many

your car out to other people. If you own

other services rely solely on their peer-

a car, and you find that it is sitting in the

What are the challenges to getting

to-peer vehicles. On our platform, it

driveway for 95 percent of the time as

people to sign up their cars to a

could be a traditional bricks and mortar

many of the cars in the UK do, you can

peer-to-peer service?

car rental agency that is also listing their

make use of that asset and rent it to

People can be concerned about the

fleet on the platform. Our service is

somebody else.

security of their cars so we reassure

really through that mix of peer-to-peer

them that car sharing is completely

and professional supply. That means

normal.

we have become more reliable and a

Where did the idea come from?

It was started in 2010 in France by

There are a number of things that

our Founder and current CEO, Paulin

we offer as part of our USP that mean

Dementhon. The idea came to him

that car sharing is safe and reliable. First

In your nationwide expansion, how

when he observed that some families

is the open technology. Second, we have

do you choose where to focus?

on his street had a car and that others

extended customer service hours and

We assess the city based on how good

did not. Since then we have opened in

a dedicated customer service centre

the public transport is. We assess

six countries: France, Spain, Germany,

which means owners do not have to do

the city’s demographics. The public

Belgium, Austria and now the UK.

all of the administration around hires.

authorities also play a big role in

higher quality as well.

We also provide reliability through

establishing car sharing. We want to be

What is new for the company?

reviews. Our car owners and customers

considered part of the city’s transport

There are now two ways that you can

review each other, meaning that any

network.

hire Drivy. One is the classic method,

bad behaviour can be pushed out of the

where you meet somebody and you

platform.

Finally, we look at cities with a congestion problem. One of the reasons

hand over the keys. The second is a

Last but not least, we provide

this business started was to relieve

new technology called DrivyOpen. This

insurance. All countries are on the same

congestion. Every time you have a

means that you can open the car with

contract with Allianz. If anything were to

permanently shared car, it is estimated

your smart phone and just get going.

happen while the driver is out in your

to take nine-to-fifteen cars off the road.

DrivyOpen cars are rented in the UK

vehicle, they are completely covered.

We free up parking spaces, so roads are

about seven times more than standard

And that is exactly the same with our

less clogged up and urban congestion

classic rentals. For that reason, we are

24/7 breakdown cover with the AA.

drops. That is one of the problems that we are here to solve. I Interview by SL

really focusing on DrivyOpen. In London we aim to have two OpenCars available

How do you differentiate yourself

Countries: France, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Austria, UK Number of vehicles (across all markets): 50,000 Number of users (across all markets): 2 million

info

- november / december 2018 - 23

BUSINE S S WOR LD – SME NE WS

Andjaro signs first UK client

A

ndjaro, the French tech scale-up that raised €5m in series A funding from SAP and Balderton Capital in spring this year, celebrates its first UK client – a FTSE 250 company and leading provider of public services worldwide. The platform, which allows companies to internally load-balance their staff between sites using an uber-like algorithm, promises a solution to last-minute staff absences and allows staff to volunteer via an app for extra hours at multiple sites within the same organisation. The newly signed UK client will be the first of its kind to leverage Andjaro’s solution to enable a more agile workforce - a solution that Bernard Liautaud, General Partner at Balderton Capital speculates will ‘soon become essential HR practice.’ I

From left to right: Alexandre Ramin, Benoit Ozan, Ivan de Pontevès and Quentin Guilluy, co-founders

New editor at ECHO magazine

CXB HUB to open subsidiary in France

E

C

CHO magazine is pleased to announce that Cécile Faure has taken over Marie-Blanche Camps’s position

as Editor for L’ECHO Magazine. Cécile Faure has lived in

XB HUB’s strategic consulting services and innovative customer experience solutions will be available in France. This new step

in the international expansion strategy of the customer experience

London since 1994, has contributed to L'ECHO Magazine

start-up, one year after its creation, follows the schedule established

since 2015 and has been a member of the Board since July

by the founders. CXB HUB has partnered with Isabelle Rongier, a

2017. Marie-Blanche Camps resigned from her position

long-time accomplice and former Academie du Service (specialist in

but will contribute editorial pieces in the magazine’s next

customer culture), to accompany the launch of the French subsidiary

two issues.. I

as GM. I

Nabuchodonosor and Quarterback merge to become NABUQUARTERBACK

Q

uarterback, a sports marketing agency dedicated to sports counseling, hospitality and event production, and Nabuchodonosor, public relations pioneer in the fields of rugby, gastronomy and wine, are strengthening their current position and already solid engagement towards their customers. These two major actors are coming up with a unique and diversified calendar, to meet any company needs by enabling them to please their guests with renowned events and outstanding and exclusive hospitality experiences. I

Blanc wins eco award

B

lanc,

the

laundry

and tailoring service,

won first prize in the Natural & Eco Services category at the 2018 Janey

U

sing an external consultant who understands the brand values, can realise the brand’s vision in the retail space

and support the in-house team by project managing the

Loves Platinium Awards,

process can be beneficial and more productive. ‘Delivering

alongside

in

projects on time, within budget while meeting the quality

health,

standards that are essential for luxury brands is my business,’

food and home, and other

explains Fouder Hélène Parisot, whose company has worked

natural

the beauty,

best

fabulous brands. This award is a recognition for the brand which delivers healthier, eco-friendly, high quality natural cleaning every day to its customers. I 24 - info - november / december 2018

A Sprinkle of Deco and Art focuses on project management in retail

with L’Occitane and Givenchy. I

BUSINE S S WOR LD – S TART- UP S TORY

Peppy baby: A helping hand A new organisation is piloting postnatal support for parents in an underserved market

Our learning from being parents has led us to design Peppy Baby with parents and baby's needs at the centre

P

eppy Baby is a platform that

parents and baby's needs at the

subsidise postnatal support through a

creates easy access to subsidised

centre. We then sought to align the

tailored employee benefit package for

maternity support services for

needs of parents and babies with the

staff on parental leave. This can involve

parents on maternity and paternity

needs of companies to demonstrate

subsidising maternity appointments or

leave; including lactation consultants,

that everyone is better off if they work

matching employee contributions.

baby sleep coaches, baby osteopaths,

together,’ says Landry.

night

nannies,

postnatal

The pilot will work with five to ten

physios,

Current medical services focus

employees per organisation, open to

postnatal counsellors and back-to-

on prenatal care, birth and medical

employees about to go on maternity

work coaches.

issues, whereas postnatal support is

or paternity leave. Companies are

There is much evidence showing

shrinking. According to the children’s

asked to commit a minimum of £200

that supporting women and men

charity Barnardos, local funding for

financial allowance per employee, an

through early parenting pays dividends

children’s centres has fallen by fifty

investment which goes directly to the

for the children, the parents and also

percent since 2010. Postnatal support

employee – Peppy Baby is waiving their

the companies who support them - in

services are available privately, but can

fee for the pilot.

terms of increased retention and fewer

be difficult to access or even wholly

days off due to sickness.

unknown to new parents.

The core of their work is about building partnerships with people and

Peppy Baby was launched by Evan

The latest gender pay gap research

organisations who share the Peppy

Harris, Mridula Pore and Max Landry,

also supports the fact that this is

Baby mission, a desire to make things

who left careers in the corporate

a crucial career stage for female

better for parents and children.

and

become

employees, as the gap only emerges

Landry is more evangelical. ‘If you

entrepreneurs. Landry, the former

at the time of the first child's birth and

work with people and have a shared

Chief Executive of the new media

then proceeds to widen over time.

goal, things happen more quickly, with

media

worlds

to

publisher The Conversation, says that

As part of its launch, the company is

the catalyst for launching the business

looking to partner with ten employers

came from ‘first-hand experience of

on a non-profit pilot. They have already

the stresses and strains of having a

engaged with a number of corporates

by

child and struggling to find the right

and are now looking to convince other

academics, who will write a study of

support at the right time.’

progressive organisations to join the

the pilot, as well as professional bodies

cohort.

such as The Lactation Consultants of

‘Our learning from being parents has led us to design Peppy Baby with

The idea is for employers to

the goodwill accelerating all decision making,’ he says.

Peppy Baby’s work is supported the

leading

postnatal

health

Great Britain. I

info

- november / december 2018 - 25

E DUC ATION – NE WS

CFBL rated ‘outstanding’ Collège Français Bilingue de Londres (CFBL) was given a rating of ‘outstanding’

by Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education). After a three-day inspection carried out last June, Ofsted reviewed categories including quality of teaching, and personal development, behaviour and welfare and outcomes for pupils. CFBL is a bilingual school in central London which welcomes 700 students aged 5 to 15.

Its teachings are in line with the French national curriculum and accredited by the French Ministry for Education. CFBL is also a partner school of the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE). I

La Rochelle Education Group changes its name to Excelia Group La Rochelle Education Group, which celebrates its 30th anniver¬sary this year, has changed its name. Bruno Neil, CEO & Dean of Excelia Group explains: 'This new identity will assist in the di¬versification of the Group’s portfolio of activities, enhance the development of its sites and campuses beyond La Rochelle itself and will be the flagship for the Group’s development and values in the coming years, all of which focus on excellence.’ The names of the individual schools remain unchanged but their brands will be further strengthened by association with the Group’s new identity. I

Institut Français offers crosscultural training

Ecole Jeannine Manuel to hold higher education conference

The Institut Français in London offers a wide range of

Ecole Jeannine Manuel has announced a public conference

customised professional French courses, from business, legal

about Higher Education around the world to take place on

or medical French, to suit the busiest schedules. Training is

15 December. The aim of the conference is to help bilingual

available face to face or online. Its bespoke cross-cultural

pupils and their parents make sense of the many options

seminars aim to familiarise you with the habits and customs

available to them in terms of Higher Education, and then to

of your French business partners and improve your language

understand how to prepare in the most effective way. Ecole

skills to ensure successful business relationships. I

Jeannine Manuel sends more graduates to Ivy League Colleges in the US, and to Oxbridge and Russell Group universities in the UK, than any other school in France. I

HEC and partner launch HR data project Cornerstone OnDemand, a global leader in cloud-based learning and human capital management software (HCM), has today announced a partnership with HEC Paris Business School for a new research project, focusing on human resources and human capital management through exhaustive data analysis. The objective of the project is to help European leaders understand the latest technological breakthroughs in the new digital economy, and the benefits of implementing cloud-based HRM tools to manage recruiting, training, performance management and employee engagement. I

Sciences Po founding member of Paris Peace Forum Sciences Po is proud to be one of the six founding members of the Paris Peace Forum, a global platform for governance projects spearheaded by President Emmanuel Macron. The first ever edition will take place in November with more than 70 heads of state present to discuss and debate global governance. This international meeting is to become an annual event promoting governance solutions in five key areas: peace and security, environment, development, new technologies, and inclusive economy. I 26 - info - november / december 2018

R E PORT S & R E SE ARCH – BUSINE S S WOR LD

A selection of research papers and reports produced by Chamber member companies and partners

Irwin Mitchell: UK Powerhouse - The Consumer Economy Launched in 2015 following the creation of the Northern Powerhouse initiative, this Consumer Powerhouse special report tracks regional economic growth across the whole of the UK. The report presents league tables for the top performing cities based on GVA and employment, including 2017 rankings and the forecast for 2018, to highlight the hotspots for the sector in the UK. Trends within the retail, leisure and tourism, and bars and restaurants sectors are detailed to present a fully formed picture of the state of the UK consumer sector, with case studies, and recommendations for the future from both businesses and industry experts.

Irwin Mitchell: UK Powerhouse - The Consumer Economy - 2018/2019 Available at: www.irwinmitchell.com/ukpowerhouse

PwC: UK Economic Outlook This periodical report published by PwC highlights key and growing aspects of the economy.

The March 2018 edition includes special focus on consumer spending, the impact of automation, and regional growth trends and prospects.

On the topic of regional growth, characteristics of the divide between London and other regions of the country, both past and future, are reviewed. These include how regions have developed since the 2008 financial crisis and the uncertainties of Brexit for the future.

PwC: UK Economic Outlook - March 2018 Available at: www.pwc.co.uk/economic-services/ukeo/pwc-ukeo-march18-full-report.pdf

EY: UK Attractiveness Survey The 2018 edition of EY’s UK Attractiveness Survey, as in previous editions, examines the evolving performance and perceptions of the UK as a destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). Results are based on an analysis of the IBM Global Location Trends database, which tracks those FDI projects that have resulted in the creation of new facilities and new jobs. The surveys are designed to help businesses make investment decisions and governments remove barriers to growth.

The report highlights an economy in transition, influenced by Brexit and the force of technological change, which is impacting on the mix of investment across sectors, project types and size. The importance of cities, transport infrastructure and industry mix amongst regions is emphasised.

EY: UK Attractiveness Survey - 2018 Available at: www.ey.com/uk/en/issues/business-environment/ey-uk-attractiveness-survey info

- november / december 2018 - 27

Regional Focus Doing Business Outside London

T

he Northern Powerhouse. The Celtic Powerhouse. The Midlands Engine. The 'Silicon' M4 Corridor. Grand plans are afoot to regenerate Britain’s regional economies and to leverage their already well-performing sectors.

Of course London still dominates the British economy to the tune of 20 percent of the GDP of the country. When you add the South East, analysts predict that these two regions alone will account for 40 percent of national GDP by 2022.

By all measures, the gap between the regional economies is growing. The Guardian reported that the divide is starker than any other country in Europe due to poor infrastructure in many areas of Britain.

There are Brexit concerns too. A recent report by the Institute for Public Policy Research says that post-Brexit immigration controls could be highly damaging to regional economies. The Midlands and the North-East could be the biggest losers, with up to 90 percent of EU nationals currently working in these areas not qualifying under new immigration rules.

The Labour MP Keir Starmer has argued that more power needs to be devolved to the regions to combat the toughest and disproportionate outcomes.

Yet Britain is still unmatched in Europe in many sectors, including the London-led services industry, but also in creative sectors and crucially in tech.

The strength of the regions in this sector underpins Britain’s reputation as a digital powerhouse.

Bristol, Birmingham, and Belfast are rapidly joining the ranks of the most significant tech hubs in Europe, with thousands employed in all three cities’ digital economies.

Oxford and Cambridge are outperforming Paris and Berlin atw producing start-ups.

Manchester is matching Amsterdam. Edinburgh and Leeds are on a par with Dublin and Barcelona.

Successes are not only being registered in the tech industry. In the twenty page dossier that follows, you will find examples of some of the best regional players drawn from our membership up and down the country. There is also expert industry analysis, showing where the regions are facing challenges and how they can leverage their strengths in the current business environment.

Above all, this issue provides a snapshot of the dynamic opportunities and successes beyond the capital. Our hope is that this issue informs and inspires 'doing business outside London.' I

info

- november / december 2018 - 29

Regional Sector Maps Dominant sectors

Turnover by region

Source: BDO UK Regional Sector Maps

30 - info - november / december 2018

R EGIONAL FOCUS – FOCUS

House of Commons: Business Statistics 2018 Statistics by regions and countries Number of

% change

Per 10,000

Employers

enterprises (000s)

SMEs

on year

resident adults

000s

000s

North East North West Yorkshire & Humber East Midlands West Midlands East of England London South East South West England Wales Scotland Northern Ireland

United Kingdom

142

-3%

657

40

142

530

2%

905

136

529

419

7%

953

101

419

371

0%

962

94

370

450

9%

964

115

449

572

3%

1,155

140

572

1,062

4%

1,519

232

1,061 928

929

3%

1,272

203

532

3%

1,170

122

531

5,008

4%

1,119

1,182

5,003

209

-6%

818

54

209

346

7%

771

95

346

132

6%

894

35

132

5,695

4%

1,069

1,367

5,687

Notes: Data relates to the start of 2016, Numbers rounded to the nearest 1000

Source: Bis, Business Population Estimatess

Labour market statistics

North East North West Yorkshire & Humber East Midlands West Midlands East

London South East South West

Employment

Unemployment

% working

% working

rate

rate

part-time

self-employed

71.0

5.5

27.6

11.9

73.4

4.4

25.4

13.5

73.5

4.8

27.4

13.5

74.7

4.1

27.8

13.6

72.7

5.0

26.6

14.0

77.6

3.7

26.9

15.8

74.2

5.0

22.1

18.6

78.5

3.4

27.6

16.4

78.2

3.3

30.8

17.3

72.7

14.5

Wales Scotland Northern Ireland

4.9

28.1

74.3

4.2

27.1

12.1

69.2

4.4

25.9

14.8

UK

74.8

4.3

26.6

15.2 Source: ONS

info

- november / december 2018 - 31

Regional next steps A recent KPMG report co-authored by chief economist Yael Selfin highlights actions that could improve regional productivity

I

f the UK is to improve its productivity performance to match that of its Western peers, every region nationwide needs to play its part in addressing weaknesses where they exist and

boosting the area’s existing strengths.

KPMG research shows that the answer lies in a combination of factors: developing a fit-for-purpose local infrastructure, driven by enlightened regional policymaking; encouraging innovation and best management practice, with

It is possible that Brexit deals a significant blow to productivity, as the country’s international links and access to talent come under strain. But, at the same time, enhanced productivity is the only answer to helping the UK avoid a weakened economic future

the full support of business; and promoting a far higher level of skills and education in the local workforce, starting at the earliest possible age.

It is crucial that significant emphasis is placed on measures that will help support improved productivity performance

to alleviate road congestion.

within the UK. It is possible that Brexit deals a significant blow

Yorkshire and the Humber

to productivity, as the country’s international links and access

Infrastructure is the main priority in Yorkshire, with support

to talent come under strain. But, at the same time, enhanced

and funding required for projects such as high-speed rail

productivity is the only answer to helping the UK avoid a

connecting Leeds and Manchester. More broadly, improving

weakened economic future. The Budget should therefore

rail links to Leeds is imperative as it would help tackle

focus on investment in the economy’s long term future,

congestion on roads such as M1 and M62. Within the region,

by prioritising measures that encourage improvements in

improving public transport road and rail links to employment

productivity across all parts of the UK.

centres such as Sheffield City Region Enterprise Zone needs to

The North East

be urgently addressed.

The focus should be on improving connectivity, particularly

East Midlands

with the Northern Powerhouse region, to which the North

Upskilling the existing workforce is the most significant

East is critical, but often poorly connected. This should be

challenge this region currently faces. Education is a major area

done through the timely delivery of rail electrification plans

of concern: secondary and primary educational attainment

and, more broadly, through support and investment in the

both need to be improved, requiring an increase in the

Northern Powerhouse Rail initiative, including incentivising

number and scale of initiatives such as the UK-wide £75 million

private investment. Intra-regional public transport

Teaching and Leadership Fund announced in February 2017.

improvements are also needed: that includes greater numbers of buses and additional routes outside of city centres, linking

West Midlands

small towns to regional business hubs.

Skills and education are the priority issues here. Local

The North West

government needs to work in tandem with higher and further education institutions to improve educational attainment in

Infrastructure is a major priority here, focusing on continued

line with local business needs. The devolution of education

upgrades of the Trans-Pennine rail network. Within the region,

funding control, allowing for the retention of part of the

Local Enterprise Partnerships, Combined Authorities and Local

unspent levy locally, may support this goal. Significant

Transport Authorities should lead on devising and investing

investments such as the Engineering Skills and Training

in reliable public transport links to enterprise zones and

Centre in Hinckley, or the advanced manufacturing and design

metropolitan areas such as Manchester and Liverpool. Making

centre at Stafford College are very welcome – but need to be

public transport a viable alternative to commuters who use the

accompanied by an effective career guidance to incentivise

M60 around Manchester would go a long way towards helping

prospective students.

32 - info - november / december 2018

R EGIONAL FOCUS – FOCUS

The East of England

Wales

The region should improve intra-regional rail links to unblock

Improving educational attainment and basic skills is imperative

road congestion, particularly around the Cambridge area, as

– in the light of employers’ relative dissatisfaction with even

well as rail links to the South East and London.

basic literacy and numeracy skills – if the region is to boost

London Tackling the problems caused by road congestion is a major priority for the capital - for example, through broadening the

its productivity. Devising and funding an alternative to the now scrapped Schools Challenge Cymru programme should therefore be a priority.

introduction of congestion charges. So too is upgrading the

Scotland

digital infrastructure, including the speed and reliability of the

The region should focus on education and skills initiatives

internet and 4G mobile networks.

which would accelerate previous progress made on improving

South East

productivity. Specifically, Scotland should undertake actions to further enhance digital and technology skills across the

The region should prioritise further investment in housing

workforce, enhance managerial and leadership training in both

supply to prevent shrinkage of the available labour pool. Timely

private and public sector and improve numeracy and literacy

delivery of infrastructure projects such as rail electrification

skills in schools, where Scotland has in recent years fallen

and Crossrail is essential to maintain good links to London.

down the international PISA rankings. Secondly, the region

Likewise, continued support for the East-West rail is crucial for

should invest in improving digital infrastructure and enhancing

improving interregional links outside London.

4G availability and network speeds.

South West

Northern Ireland

The focus should be on infrastructure: further investment, for

Given the high percentage of workers without qualifications

example, needs to be made in extending the electrification

in the region, policy makers should focus on adult learning

programme to include suburban rail service in Bristol,

and upskilling initiatives. In terms of infrastructure, completing

Gloucestershire and Somerset, as well as improve links to

the A6 between Derry and Belfast is a major project for the

Bristol airport.

region. I Source: KPMG UK Regional Productivity Performance

info

- november / december 2018 - 33

The UK’s other fastest-growing regions The capital has a reputation for attracting business opportunities and innovative ideas, but other regions across the UK are catching up, according to a recent report by the NatWest Business Hub

D

espite London and the South East’s headline-grabbing

bioscience graduates and equip them with the skills needed in

growth figures, three out of every five new high-growth

the workplace.

companies are formed outside the M25. These firms

are also creating one in three jobs, according to the Centre for

Beside the seaside

Economics and Business Research’s (CEBR) High Growth Small

Another region witnessing a boom in its digital economy is the

Business Urban Hub League Table, published in 2016.

South West, particularly Bournemouth and Poole. There’s a

Looking east

good reason the area is referred to as the Silicon Beach, says Marc Biles, CEO of fintech company Ratio.

With a growth forecast of 1.7 percent over the next few years,

‘I know London-based businesses are always competing

the East of England is one of the UK’s fastest-growing regions.

for the best employees or new ideas, but down here there’s a

Employment is also increasing – 15,000 more jobs were

fantastic group of businesses that all help each other out – we

recorded in June 2017 compared with the previous year.

learn from one another instead,’ he says.

A dominant driving force behind this is its vibrant tech

The digital sector in Bournemouth and Poole employs

scene, also known as its ‘emerging tech diamond.’ This stretches

15,763 people and its gross value added (GVA) is worth £352m

from St Albans and Stevenage to Cambridge and Peterborough

a year, according to the latest Tech Nation report. Furthermore,

in the north of the region, across to Ipswich and Norwich, and

26 percent of the area’s companies are classed as high-growth.

back down via Colchester and Chelmsford in the south.

‘Compared to the relentless environment of major city centres,

Owen O’Neill is CEO and founder of digital platform University Compare, which has previously raised six-figure investment through equity crowd funding platform Seedrs. ‘The

we have an exceptional quality of life here. This is helping to attract some real talent,’ Biles adds.

fact [the tech scene] is thriving is partly down to the greater

Space to breathe and relax

availability of affordable co-working and office spaces, as well as

Like Bournemouth, Leeds offers opportunities for businesses to

the appeal of the location,’ he says.

grow, but at a more relaxed pace than bigger cities.

O’Neill adds that councils in the area can offer invaluable

‘Moving to Yorkshire has given me the space to breathe

support and resources. ‘Essex County Council runs an

deep and think bigger,’ says Oonagh Simms, founder of The

innovation programme dedicated to early-stage and established

Marshmallowist, a gourmet marshmallow producer. ‘I started

companies, helping them to start up, bring new products to

my business in London, via Paris, but it’s when I moved back

market and grow.’

to Leeds that it really grew. There came a tipping point when I

High success

wanted to scale the business and needed the space, time and support that I just couldn’t get in London.’

In the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is fast becoming a major

Leeds ranked 12th out of 32 towns and cities in the CEBR

hub for medtech and life sciences research. The region is

league table of the places small businesses are most likely to

home to Aseptium, which specialises in cutting-edge medical

experience high growth, and placed 7th for connectivity and

decontamination equipment, and Mime Technologies, a

transport. The city, and Yorkshire and the Humber in general,

provider of mobile software for first responders.

are starting to show they’re diverse and aren’t reliant on heavy

With a number of both national and international

manufacturing, engineering and the textiles industry. According

companies boasting R&D centres and production facilities in

to the EY research, the region will see growth of 1.4 percent up

and around Inverness, the region is helping to foster innovation.

until 2020. I

The University of the Highlands and Islands has also developed an MSc in applied bioscience skills for industry to support

For more visit: www.natwestbusinesshub.com

The digital sector in Bournemouth and Poole employs 15,763 people and its gross value added is worth £352m a year

34 - info - november / december 2018

R EGIONAL FOCUS – FOCUS

The consumer powerhouses Retail, tourism and leisure, and bar and restaurant sectors are vital to sustaining growth in the UK economy, says Melanie Stancliffe, Partner, Irwin Mitchell

B

etween the end of 2016 and 2017,

steady rate and consumer confidence

the consumer sector in UK cities

is generally on the rise and people

for consumer GVA growth in the last

grew on average by 1.5 percent

generally have more disposable income

quarter of 2017. Throughout 2017,

for Gross Value Added (GVA) and one

to spend on themselves,’ says Stancliffe.

footfall data showed that the city

percent for employment. However, this group of industries is extremely

Top performers

competitive, and providers need to

Average GVA growth across the

differentiate themselves to stay relevant.

powerhouse cities for the consumer

Middlesbrough performed well

experienced growth in numbers of shoppers, despite the national trend being negative.

Another top performer for

‘The sector is facing significant

sector was 1.5 percent annually in Q4

consumer GVA growth is Derby. This

disruption, but it’s not Armageddon as

2017, with the fastest growing city for

city has seen widespread growth across

some commentators have suggested,

this sector being Bristol. Portsmouth

many sectors. Several manufacturers

rather a case of re-invention,’ says

had the largest contraction in growth of

in Derby have experienced higher

Melanie Stancliffe, Partner, Irwin

1.3 percent year-on-year.

international demand as a result of the

Mitchell. The law firm recently released

The South West England university

weaker pound since the Brexit vote. The

the report 'UK Powerhouse - The

cities of Bristol and Exeter performed

current health of these local employers

Consumer Economy.'

well in Q4 2017, with a high level of

will drive wage growth and employment

growth in GVA in the consumer sector

in the region, which in turn will

bars and cafes with shops, businesses in

placing them both in the top five in the

encourage retail and leisure spending

the consumer sector need to constantly

Consumer Powerhouse table. South

as well as spending on eating out.

adapt to stay relevant. Support from

West England has experienced high

local authorities is key to success,

growth in tourist spending in recent

third place for consumer GVA growth

especially in the tourism industry, where

years, which may have been responsible

in 2018, with a 2.9 percent year-on-

businesses located outside London

for this sectoral growth.

year increase. The city is a large tourist

From omnichannel retail to merging

– which dominates tourism in the UK –

In 2018, these two cities are

Edinburgh is expected to rise to

attraction in the UK, with the highest

need support to draw tourists to their

expected to come in the top two

tourism spending in any UK city after

offers and attractions.

positions for consumer GVA growth,

London. In 2016, tourism boosted the

showing that the expansion is not

local economy by more than £1.46bn. I

‘There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic. The sector is growing at a

limited to a single year.

Key findings • The consumer sector was worth £400bn in 2017 • Bristol was the fastest growing city for consumer GVA growth in Q4 2017, increasing 3.1% year-on-year • Annual growth in online retail has been above 10% in most months in the last five years, while the number of visitors to retail parks, high streets and shopping centres has been falling • Businesses need to differentiate themselves from competitors by considering the experience of the customer

info

- november / december 2018 - 35

Re-visiting Liverpool The French Chamber organised a Trade Delegation to Liverpool two years ago as part of an aim to help forge links between UK regions and member companies, says Stephen Burgin, Deputy President of the French Chamber

I

t seems like only ‘Yesterday’ when late

new business. It was also impressive to

jobs were created over the three-

in 2016, a high profile delegation was

see the extremely strong links between

year period (2015-18) and the region

assembled by the French Chamber

business, the local authorities and

attracted more than £78m in private

to connect with the City of Liverpool.

academia to create the best possible

sector investment, meeting job creation

A packed programme of business and

environment that is well established and

targets and delivering 205 percent of the

cultural engagements across the City

supported in the region.

private sector investment target.

started with a warm welcome from

I have no doubts that Liverpool is a

the Liverpool Lord Mayor at their truly

great place for business and this was a

investment projects attracted by Invest

historical Town Hall.

This

was

largely

driven

by

47

great opportunity for French business,

Liverpool and supplemented by almost

The delegation was led by former

supported by our Ambassador, to forge

£1m worth of private revenue secured

French Ambassador Sylvie Bermann,

new relationships with the city and the

by Marketing Liverpool. Liverpool, and

who was joined by a wide cross section

city with us.

sister city Manchester, have been jointly

of French businesses in the UK including

ranked the 10th most popular location

our kind sponsors PWC and Swinton

2018 update

Insurance, with Engie, Veolia, JC Decaux,

As of this year, a growing number of

EasyJet, Alstom and a number of others.

globally significant companies, including

globally for foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2017 according to an IBM report.

‘Foreign

investment

in

Liverpool

Vision

Unilever, Jaguar Land Rover, Dong

comes in many forms, such as bio-

and Liverpool City Region Combined

Energy, IBM and Inovyn, are investing

manufacturing firms in Speke, high-

Authority

heavily

performance computing and big data at

Co-sponsors

Liverpool

organised

direct

links

to

in

the has

Liverpool both

economy.

new business developments and the

Productivity

improved

in

Sci-Tech Daresbury and our exceptionally

universities. It was very clear to us all that

recent years, but there remains a gap to

strong health and life sciences sector,'

Liverpool is driving significant business

regional and national rates.

says Max Steinberg, Chief Executive of

growth around the knowledge economy

According to a recent report by

in an exciting and vibrant environment

the Mayor of Liverpool’s economic

These are noteworthy achievements

that is built on a rich cultural heritage.

development company, Liverpool Vision,

alongside developing a renewed concept

We finished a thoroughly invigorating

the local economy has continued to

and design for the 2018 International

day with a toe tapping visit to the Beatles

grow in line with targets of a three-year

Business Festival, which has played a

Story.

business plan, with a commitment to

major part of Liverpool Vision’s activity.

As a business leader, I saw a regional

generating jobs and investment in the

Hosting the Festival in June 2018

City that has already delivered significant

city. The economy generates £29.5bn of

generated significant outputs for the city

investments into its infrastructure and

output.

and region over the subsequent years. I

local economy and that really is open for

Liverpool Vision.

Liverpool Vision reported that 1,042

The trip to Liverpool City Region followed successful trade delegations to Birmingham in 2011, Leeds in 2012, Scotland in 2013 and Manchester in 2015, and forms part of the French Chamber’s strategy of developing relationships and business opportunities, not only in London but also on a countrywide basis, to help forge mutually beneficial links.

36 - info - november / december 2018

R EGIONAL FOCUS – FOCUS

A very 'British-French' Mike Sangster, UK Chair for Total, explains how the French company operates across the value chain and in every corner of the British Isles

T

otal is on a 20 year mission to become the responsible energy major. That means providing the

affordable, reliable and clean energy the world needs. This is what defines us as a company; meeting the climate challenge in a way that safeguards the environment but also continues to provide the energy necessary for everyday life across the planet. This mission is global and yet needs to be addressed in every country where we operate. In this short article I want to set out the extent to which we are present across the UK. From the waters of the North Sea,

Our offices in Aberdeen in Scotland host 800 colleagues from around 30 different countries, creating a hub of expertise

our offshore platforms produce on average over 260,000 barrels of oil equivalent every day, making Total the

gas produced by Total in the North Sea. Whilst 70 percent of our UK

As part of our response to the climate challenge we are also now increasingly

single largest producer in the UK. Our

production is gas, 30 percent is oil. In

present in the value chain for gas. As

offices in Aberdeen in Scotland host 800

the UK we own one of the world’s most

well as providing UK power companies

colleagues from around 30 different

advanced petrochemical refineries,

with the gas they need to supply

countries, creating a hub of expertise

situated at Lindsey on the coast of

consumers, we also sell directly to

for exploration and production.

Lincolnshire. We are ensuring our

industrial and commercial businesses.

processes are as environmentally

Total Gas & Power, which is based in

the waters of the UK continental shelf

friendly as possible and we have

Surrey, is the No2 in the UK in terms

means we must also constantly explore

developed new products such as

of volumes supplied. The procurement

to replenish our reserves and bring new

greener solvents that help everyone

of the gas and power we supply to our

projects on line. In October 2018 we

reduce their impact.

customers is also in transformation,

The continuous production from

were delighted to announce a major

We also use the feedstock from

as we seek to provide power from

new gas discovery West of Shetland.

offshore production and the refinery

increasingly renewable sources as well

Next year we will also complete the

to create speciality products such as

as traditional gas generation.

Culzean project, a technologically

bitumen, asphalt and lubricant in our

advanced High Pressure/High

facilities across North West England.

from their offices in London, showing

Temperature platform in the Central

Twenty-five percent of UK road surfaces

that as much as the UK offers a diverse

North Sea. This cycle of exploration,

are made from Total products. Our

market and strong regional economic

development and production is the

Stop-Choc business provides sealants

centres, in its capital city it also has a

rhythm of our offshore business in the

and shock absorbers for large engines

gateway to the world.

UK.

and industrial machinery, including Most of our production from the

Gas & Power also trade gas globally

Total regards the UK as an

aircraft cockpit displays. More

important strategic partner for

North Sea is natural gas. It enters the

traditionally we also produce and sell

practically every part of its business.

National Grid network in the North

fuel for aeroplanes, ships and HGVs. 20

It’s a relationship already over 50 years

East of Scotland and in East Anglia, and

percent of fuel sold at Heathrow is from

old and I am sure it has many more

supplies around 14 percent of the UK’s

Total.

mutually profitable years to come as we

daily requirements for gas. The chances

From offshore reservoirs to the

are that you will either warm your home

fuel tank of an airliner, Total is present

or cook your dinner this evening with

at every step of the value chain for oil.

continue to invest in British resources, talent and innovation. I

info

- november / december 2018 - 37

Rebalancing the UK economy EY’s Regional Economic Forecast shows a trend towards slowing regional economies, but with green shoots in several UK cities

I

n the three years since our first regional economic forecast,

The Industrial Strategy recognises the role of sectors but

little progress has been made to reduce geographic

really only scratches the surface by identifying a small number

imbalances between the South and the rest of the country.

of sector deals. These initial deals need to be quickly extended

In fact there has been a slight increase in the imbalance as

to a wider range of sectors. If we are serious about geographic

measured by shares of Gross Value Added (GVA).

rebalancing, we need a manufacturing strategy that goes

We expect little change in the next three years, with a

beyond deals announced so far.

slightly slower rate of increasing imbalance. However, as this

The automotive resurgence in the Midlands shows what

slowing is due primarily to a slowdown in the economy overall,

is possible, and other capital intensive industries, such as,

and especially in the fastest-growing sectors that are more

machinery, electronics, food and drink and chemicals all offer

important in the southern regions of the country, this is not

the opportunities to boost exports and to substitute imports

something to celebrate.

and support growth outside of the core cities.

There are some bright spots. Manchester’s robust

The sector plans are just one area requiring further ambition.

performance in recent years shows what can be achieved with

Other elements of policy must be designed to complement the

the right focus and resources. Equally, the performance of fast-

Industrial Strategy.

growing Reading, Cambridge and other cities demonstrates that UK cities can prosper in the modern knowledge-based economy.

Our analysis of relative city performance provides an insight

The key components of this policy should be:

into how policy and different industrial structures influence economic performance. The strength of a city in professional

• Devolution of economic policy making to make the

services and information and communications technology (ICT)

increased support for Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs)

explains the majority of the differences in growth rates achieved

set out in the Industrial Strategy a reality.

over the last three years.

Cities on the rise

• A commitment to deliver infrastructure that has to go beyond the welcome first steps in the Industrial Strategy.

The success of Manchester and the fast-growing southern cities highlights another challenge: the power of cities, especially the

• Investment in the skills required to build a successful

larger ones. When we compare our regional forecasts it is clear

modern digital economy that can compete on the world

that the strong are getting stronger. City growth, especially for

stage.

large cities, typically outpaces regional growth which means that the towns and other areas within regions are growing more

• A regional trade strategy which links all the elements of

slowly. Geographic imbalances exist within regions as well as

UK trade in the context of the industrial strategy.

between them and these local disparities are proving the most challenging to address.

Most importantly, we must acknowledge that rebalancing

Government strategy

is a more significant challenge than considered to date. As

The Government has published its proposals for the UK’s

identified above, imbalances exist at a local level as well as at

Industrial Strategy. We see this as an extremely positive

the national level. Policy to date has concentrated on the core

development. It is also opportune, the world economy is

cities and national initiatives in the main but we need a bottom

changing and the UK has a once in a generation opportunity

up approach to run in parallel with this, with the explicit aim of

to reposition itself in a world of changing trade dynamics and

raising the level and quality of economic activity in the weakest

technology led disruption. We have highlighted the central role

parts of the economy, the UK’s small cities and towns.

of sectors as a key driver of local economic outcomes.

38 - info - november / december 2018

This will require radical thinking. How can we stimulate

R EGIONAL FOCUS – FOCUS

The world economy is changing and the UK has a once in a generation opportunity to reposition itself in a world of changing trade dynamics and technology led disruption

activity in disconnected parts of the economy? Co-ordination

but we need to respond by setting out our future vision and

with top down activity is required such as working to identify

working towards this. The performance of Manchester shows

which parts of supply chains we can encourage to locate outside

what policy can do, the West Midlands highlights the potential

of the large cities. But we need to do more. Can we identify and

of manufacturing, and cities such as Reading and Cambridge

support entrepreneurs in the UK’s towns and cities or tempt

show that we can thrive in the knowledge-based economy of

new entrepreneurs to these areas?

the future.

No time to waste

opportunity in the weaker and more remote parts of the

These are challenging and uncertain times for the UK economy

country. I

We must learn from success and work harder to create

Key findings • The South continues to outpace the North, with London and the South East leading the growth through to 2020 with GVA growth per year averaging 2.2 percent and 2.0 percent respectively, with little sign of the gap narrowing over the next three years.

• Technology will be a key component of UK growth, with the ICT sector expected to achieve GVA growth of 3.5 percent.

Manufacturing is also forecast to grow by 1

percent over the same time period.

• Manchester is forecast to be the strongest performing city with 2.4 percent GVA growth and 1.2 percent employment growth per year between 2017 and 2020. The strong are set to get stronger, with successful cities such as Manchester and Reading outperforming the average regional growth, demonstrating the scale of the re-balancing challenge.

Source: EY Regional Economic Forecast

info

- november / december 2018 - 39

A place where business thrives High-profile, innovative companies can draw upon crucial support from the Welsh Government to help them grow and change, says Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport

A

ll across Wales, bright new ideas are being put into

committed to basing significant parts of their operations

action; in offices and laboratories, factories and

in Wales. And many have been clear that the competitive

festivals, on land, sea and in the air. It’s driven by an

business environment and supportive approach has been a

innovative, entrepreneurial spirit; not just dreaming big, but making it happen.

Since 1999, the country has had its own devolved

deciding factor in their decision to locate or expand in Wales.

Dynamic growth

government, with control over its own economic development

The Welsh Government has undertaken a huge amount of

and spending. However, Wales has been welcoming

work to strengthen the foundations of the country’s economy.

businesses for many years, helping them to thrive, grow and

There are now more people in work than ever before, a record

realise their potential.

number of active businesses and very healthy rates of new

Companies that locate there have the advantage of easy access to the UK market, with its population of 65 million.

business births, exports and foreign direct investment.

In December, I was proud to publish the new Economic

And crucially, they can draw upon the support of the Welsh

Action Plan, which sets out a clear, whole-government

Government – offering ready access to decision-makers and

approach to building stronger foundations for our economy,

the ability to make things happen quickly.

supercharging the industries of the future and empowering

Industry 4.0 Fired by the fourth industrial revolution, the way people live,

Wales’s regions. It includes a commitment to develop a new and dynamic relationship between government and business, based on public investment with a social purpose.

work and spend their leisure time is transforming before our

In practice, that means the Welsh Government supports

eyes. Work is underway to construct the Welsh Government’s

businesses that commit to growth, fair work, and promoting

Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility (AMRI) at Broughton

health and skills in the workplace. It also means helping

in the Deeside Enterprise Zone. The Institute will focus on

businesses to prepare for key developments like automation

advanced manufacturing with applications across a range of

and decarbonisation. The plan aims to increase wealth and

sectors including aerospace, automotive, nuclear and food,

improve wellbeing. I hope it will also inspire businesses and

and will deliver game-changing support to key manufacturing

people outside of the country to find out more about what

companies, as well as multi-sector supply chain companies and

Wales has to offer.

the broader SME economy.

As the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport in

The plan marks Wales out as a nation that is serious about meeting the challenges of the future. It is a place where

Wales, you will not be surprised to hear me describing it as an

businesses will receive all the help they need to prosper and

innovative, outward-facing, forward-looking country, and a first-

to play a part in a new chapter of inclusive, fair and sustainable

class location in which to invest, work and live. But you needn’t

economic growth. I

just take my word for it. High-profile companies such as Aston Martin, TVR, IQE, Chetwood Financial and CAF have all recently 40 - info - november / december 2018

Further information www.tradeandinvest.wales

R EGIONAL FOCUS – FOCUS

Super-fast streaming

The rollout of 5G is a collaborative project with national implications, and fostered at a local level across the UK. The West Midlands will host the first testbed

5G has the potential to dramatically transform the way we go about our daily lives, and we want the citizens of the UK to be amongst the first to experience the benefits of this new technology

R

egional development is dependent on strong connectivity

for regional economic development, there are varying levels of

and infrastructure. Increasingly, this lies less in the physical

clarity about how this can be exploited. Likewise, a fragmented

plane and more in the digital.

approach amongst and between local authorities to promote

On the horizon, the ‘fifth generation mobile networks’ (5G)

technology has broad implications for connectivity. The higher speeds and greater capacity of 5G aims to overcome existing network bottlenecks and increase efficiencies.

digital infrastructure would limit the potential of a national 5G roll out.

Testbeds and Trials

‘5G has the potential to dramatically transform the way we

In recognition of the need for a cohesive and fair approach, the

go about our daily lives, and we want the citizens of the UK to

government announced the 5G Testbeds and Trials Programme

be amongst the first to experience all the opportunities and

in 2017. The digital focused strategy of Birmingham, Coventry

benefits this new technology will bring,’ says Minister for Digital,

and Wolverhampton in the West Midlands meant they were

Margot James.

chosen in September 2018 as the location for the first large

5G implementation will rely on regional level projects, building to national deployment through a collaborative approach. However, in order to be a success, it has lessons to learn from its predecessor, 4G.

Overcoming barriers The implementation of 4G technology left some regions behind.

scale testbed. They will receive £25m in funding from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

This location specific approach to funding allows regions to tailor the technology to ‘address specific local challenges’ according to Digital Catapult. For example, the West Midlands testbed will focus on the health, construction and automotive sectors, to help transform public services.

Ofcom reports that ‘total geographic 4G coverage, where

But the scope of the technology is unlimited. Digital

reception is available from all four mobile operators, is available

Catapult estimates that 5G has the potential to ‘create an open

across just 43 percent of the UK’s landmass.’

environment for innovation that can foster growth across a

Dense areas of population such as cities have historically

number of technology areas.’ Business implications are huge,

received coverage first, as the larger audience, according to

from connectivity in existing supply chains increasing global

National Infrastructure Commission research. Digital Catapult

competitivity, to the creation of entirely new products and

says that the launch of 5G should aim for good coverage and

services yet to be invented.

capacity across regions without bias, to avoid a ‘digital divide.’

The UK government aims to be a world leader in 5G

Within each region its implementation will, out of necessity,

technology. The investment potential for these first mover

bring together network providers with experts in academia and

regions is therefore huge. 2020 is the target for a UK 5G rollout.

government, as well as small and corporate businesses. But

Plenty of time to plan ahead to ensure a business presence, to

broader communication is required.

get ahead of the pack. I Suzanne Lycett

A report by the Broadband Stakeholder’s Group (BSG) says that, although local councils are aware of the importance of 5G

info

- november / december 2018 - 41

Thales: beyond the capital For businesses from abroad, it can be difficult to look beyond London to see what the UK’s regions have to offer, says Avril Jolliffe, Head of Policy & International Relations, Thales UK Head of Media & Outreach ,

T

hales, a global creator of advanced

site for satellites, forging strong links to

graduates and apprentices starting their

technology

in

the Thales Alenia Space facility in Cannes.

engineering careers at Green Park.

France, has a presence in just about

Thales has also enjoyed a presence

Thales UK’s Chief Executive, Victor

every region of the UK – from Plymouth

in Scotland for more than 100 years.

Chavez, described the move as a strategic

to Glasgow, Belfast to Manchester – and

Glasgow is home to an ultra-modern

step forward for Thales. ’This new world-

a history of mergers with some iconic

manufacturing

in

class workspace sets the benchmark

names in British manufacturing.

optronic sensors and vehicle integration.

for future working environments across

The company makes a significant

In fact, every Royal Navy submarine since

Thales in the UK, designed to enable

contribution to UK prosperity, employing

1917 has been fitted with a periscope or

collaboration with customers, partners

6,500 people nationwide, some of them

optronics mast built by Thales or one of

and suppliers.’

French, and spending around £70m

its precursors.

headquartered

annually on research and technology, generating annual revenues of £1.3bn.

site

specialising

Local MP Alok Sharma said: ‘I’m

The Glasgow site has also built

delighted

that

Thales

has

chosen

vehicle sights for the French VCBI

to base its UK headquarters locally,

armoured vehicle, cementing the strong

demonstrating that the Reading area is

links with the French armed forces.

an economic powerhouse in the country.’

efforts to encourage young people to

Here to stay

maritime autonomy centre at Turnchapel

take up STEM careers, removing the

Thales is demonstrating a long term

Wharf on Plymouth’s waterfront.

need for the next generation of scientists

commitment to the UK’s regions by

Conveniently close to deep and

and engineers to gravitate to the south

opening two new sites this year, both

shallow water testing grounds, the West

east to make a career.

beyond the M25.

Country location lets it tap into a long

Historic links

In February, Prime Minister Theresa

maritime heritage and strengthens ties

May was invited to the opening of a

with regional research bodies including

Short Brothers in Belfast manufactured

state-of-the-art facility at Green Park

the University of Plymouth.

the Sunderland flying boat during World

in Reading, home to Thales’s new UK

With close links to Thales’s Brest

War Two. Now part of the Thales family,

headquarters, a cutting edge cyber

facility, Turnchapel Wharf will be the

the firm is a high precision defence

security business and a research and

primary facility for testing and evaluating

engineering site, tapping into a strong

technology centre.

unmanned mine warfare vessels for

They have always recognised the strengths to be found beyond London and the regions also benefit Thales’s

local engineering tradition.

The

site

In October, Thales opened its new

represents

a

£23m

Thales in Belfast has also spread its

investment and brings 500 highly skilled

wings into the space industry, opening

jobs to the area, including 300 specialised

an electric propulsion manufacturing

engineers. The Prime Minister met young

Theresa May at the opening of the Green Park facility

42 - info - november / december 2018

an Anglo-French project, a world first capability. I

The Prime Minister toured Thales' Reading headquarters

R EGIONAL FOCUS – FOCUS

UK Expansion: From Paris to

Ashford

One of the oldest towns in England and a long established communications hub: Sarah Plans, General Manager of AMJ IT, explains why Ashford was the natural choice for UK expansion

A

t the turn of the millennium, AMJ Group, a Paris-based IT services provider, were looking

for ways to expand at a European and International level to meet the demands of their existing customers, many of which were blue-chip companies who were looking for IT solutions at a European level. And when it came to considering locations, the UK was the obvious first choice.

Locating in the UK as AMJ IT gave immediate access to a suitable market that offers a number of benefits, including robust economic growth, attractive tax incentives, excellent potential for future expansion to the United States market, and a dynamic IT industry.

AMJ were just one of many French

While Ashford offers quick and easy access to the London market, it doesn’t come with the high costs and bureaucracy associated with setting up a business in the capital

companies to take the opportunity of locating in the UK during the 1990s

location, having benefitted both from

with the figure of £32,500 for Greater

and 2000s, benefiting from the UK’s

the region’s European proximity and the

London.

geographical proximity and the minimal

investments in local infrastructure and

costs and legal burdens imposed by UK

innovation centres by local and national

based in Kent offered numerous

corporate regulations.

government over several decades. In

opportunities in sectors that rely on IT

fact, there were 14,860 new businesses

Services, such as the transportation and

formed in Kent alone in 2017.

pharmaceutical industries, as many of

Once AMJ decided to launch operations in the UK, Ashford was the obvious choice with its proximity to

From a cultural perspective, this

And, as the business grew, being

the world’s leading companies in these

France as a plus point – Ashford is more

network of small businesses, many

or less half way between Paris and

of which are French or have links to

London, the two markets that AMJ were

France, helped to make it easier for AMJ

Ashford success

focusing on. There was more to the

IT to overcome the initial cultural and

As a result, AMJ IT grew quickly in the

decision than geography, however.

economy-specific differences between

UK , pursuing UK-based business

France and the UK.

opportunities and assisting on

Facilitating UK expansion

There were also cost and skills

sectors have a presence in the area.

European projects as an AMJ subsidiary.

Ashford is known as the UK’s gateway

benefits to locating in Ashford, as

to Europe. Its first class transport

opposed to London. While Ashford

was a long journey and there were

infrastructure makes commuting

offers quick and easy access to the

many challenges along the way, but

between London, the UK and Europe’s

London market, it doesn’t come with the

the benefits of operating in Ashford

major northern cities fast and easy, and

high costs and bureaucracy associated

enabled AMJ IT to grow steadily,

the completion of the High Speed Rail

with setting up a business in the capital.

delivering successful projects to UK

Link in the 2000s helped to make travel

Kent as a whole is able to offer a highly

clients, opening offices in London and

through Kent to Europe even faster.

skilled workforce at a much lower cost

ultimately becoming a fully British,

than London, with the county’s median

independent company. I

In addition, Ashford, and Kent as a whole, represents a dynamic business

Developing the UK business

salary of £28,500 contrasting favourably

info

- november / december 2018 - 43

Regional real estate Policy-makers are well-placed to attract investment to regional centres, says Andrew Marston, Director, UK Research Team, CBRE

T

he period from 2008 to mid-2018, the UK accounted

Birmingham, are middle-ranking and below Bristol and Cardiff.

for more than 30 percent of the European real estate

Note that we use the Primary Urban Area measure of city

investment market, and more than a third of the cross-

population for this calculation. Interestingly, outside London,

border component. The depth, maturity and transparency of

the highest investment intensity measures are not recorded in

the UK market, and associated quality of legal and business

the major cities at all but in smaller freestanding towns mostly

infrastructure, are among the explanatory factors – all of which

in the south of England, such as Cambridge, Reading, Milton

we think are likely to persist for many decades.

Keynes, Oxford and Slough. Cities like Oxford and Cambridge

As the major centres of commercial activity, cities naturally

undoubtedly benefit from the world leading universities based

feature strongly in these figures. London is in a league of its

in both cities, with significant investment and capital associated

own even in a European context, accounting for 12.5 percent

with the Research and technological development that are

of overall European investment and about 40 percent of the UK

fostered in these locations.

total over this period, making it the largest urban investment market in Europe, with only Paris coming even close.

But what about the rest? What patterns can we detect

City mayors and policy However, in recent years, the focus of government has been on the ‘City Region’, with many now benefiting from elected

within the UK and how might they change, if at all?

mayors. This policy recognised that the influence of a city goes

Regional cities

well beyond the physical limits of its built-up area. For investors

Looking at absolute levels of investment, Manchester and

this can provide another way of reading UK investment markets.

Birmingham comprise the next tier, attracting over £1bn per

Modern cities are increasingly reliant on facilities located in the

annum in investment across all commercial sectors, followed by

wider city region, from housing the workforce that commutes

a group of smaller cities (Edinburgh, Glasgow, Bristol, Leeds) in

into the city, though to the provision of warehousing to supply

the £350-500m per annum range and a third group (including

the city’s retail stores and food and beverage outlets and

Liverpool, Newcastle, Sheffield and Cardiff) where turnover

enabling efficient delivery of online orders to people’s home.

mostly runs at £250-300m per annum. To some extent, this

Birmingham’s city region provides all this, but also has national

reflects respective city sizes. However a more useful longer-

significance, being central to supply chains that link all parts of

term indication can be derived by looking at the ‘investment

the UK. As such the West Midland has attracted around £4.4bn

intensity’ of different cities.

of investment in its industrial and logistics sector so far, this

In other words, controlling for size, what level of investment activity do they attract? For this research, CBRE has updated its previous estimates of investment intensity and the results are shown in the accompanying table.

decade, almost as much as the region’s office market over the same period.

Property investment levels are inherently cyclical. If history is a guide, in the period to 2040 we would expect at least one

Despite a population approaching 10m, London wins here too, with investment of more than £20K per head over this

mild recession and one rather more serious one, both of which would affect the level of UK property investment activity.

period, which further highlights the unusually-dominant position

However, it seems less likely that longstanding patterns

of London as a magnet for investment in a mature multi-centric

will change materially, which may leave some cities feeling that

economy. Among the other cities Aberdeen and Edinburgh

institutional investors’ established preferences mean that they

again perform most strongly (as they did in our previous two

don’t get their ‘fair share’ of real estate investment.

assessments in 2016 and 2017), reflecting likely their strategic

City policymakers can, however, act on this, because it’s

importance to specific industries, energy and financial services

clear from the attached table that investment is not simply

respectively.

a function of city size. The tools available to attract a higher

The

larger

conurbations,

Manchester

and

Outside London, the highest investment intensity measures are not recorded in the major cities at all but in smaller freestanding towns mostly in the south of England, such as Cambridge, Reading, Milton Keynes, Oxford and Slough 44 - info - november / december 2018

R EGIONAL FOCUS – FOCUS

Manchester

Birmingham

share of property investment include a business-and investor-

sectors, which may in turn raise the level of investor interest.

friendly stance, area-based regeneration or placemaking

And, as we’ve argued before, it’s possibly not a coincidence

initiatives (which have a habit of generating ripple effects when

that the cities which do well also have a strong record in higher

done well), and efforts to lure in footloose occupiers in growth

educational outcomes. I

Property Investment Intensity (£ per head of population in the Primary Urban Area), 2008-18, selected large UK cities

Ranking

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Conurbation

Investment intensity (£/head)

London Aberdeen Edinburgh Bristol Cardiff Manchester Glasgow Leeds Liverpool Birmingham Southampton Sheffield Newcastle Nottingham Belfast

21,039 12,496 10,810 6,938 6,828 5,331 5,285 5,009 4,676 4,497 4,371 4,177 3,379 2,669 1,393 Source: Property Data, CBRE, ONS

info

- november / december 2018 - 45

An agency with a national footprint INFO speaks with Valentin Ramousse, Commercial Director at Emperor, a communications agency with offices across the UK including in Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester What does Emperor do?

Emperor is one of the UK’s leading independently-owned creative communications agencies. We support clients with their reporting, sustainability, brand and employee engagement needs, through our expert teams and dedicated strategic consultants, across digital, print and broadcast media to deliver a truly integrated experience.

How does having offices across the UK benefit your business?

We’ve grown significantly over the years – what began as two guys and an Apple Mac has morphed into a vibrant agency of over 200 people. Our journey has

What were the key challenges

can be reluctant to trust a new player.

meant we’ve been able to build a wide

working with BBC on their Annual

For French companies, financial reports

network of creative talent, in offices all

Report?

are often seen as a compulsory/legal

across the UK. This means we have our

The BBC is operating in an increasingly

document rather than a stakeholder

finger on the pulse locally, rather than

global and competitive market. In an

engagement tool. As a result,

simply viewing everything through the

era of fake news and social media echo

comparatively few French companies

London-lens.

chambers, the BBC’s public service

spend time on the structure and visual

mission is arguably more important

components, and when they do, they

than ever.

work with numerous agencies, each with

However, we also believe that bigger is not always better. Sometimes as agencies grow they can lose sight of the

Following new Board and

its own role, which means some crucial

fundamentals, or clients can become

governance arrangements, we worked

information can be lost in the process.

jobs rather than people. So we feel

closely with the BBC team on a narrative

Our role is, therefore, partly to promote

passionate about the concept of being

and structure that would clearly

the benefits of a good report, but also

big enough to make a difference, yet

communicate the new remit and an

to support our clients at every stage of

small enough to care.

adaptable design solution that would

the project.

celebrate the BBC’s creative output but

It is crucial for us to have a French

Why does Emperor place significant

also seamlessly assimilate over 100

speaker looking after this market and as

importance on sustainability?

pages of new content.

the main point of contact for clients and

There is a new generation of workforce

270 pages of approximately 123,000

prospects. Alongside that, the fact we

emerging; one that is asking different

words in both English and Welsh proved

offer all services – including consultancy,

things of companies. We help our

to be a logistical challenge. However,

design, typesetting, copywriting, print,

clients to develop insight into what their

all deadlines were met and the reports

mailing – helps us stand out. I

stakeholders want and then connect

were delivered ahead of schedule

their brand with those expectations.

before Parliament and in all the four

With that insight, we can then help

home nations.

clients to produce compelling content to

Founded: 1996 Offices: 6

engage with their stakeholders through

How does working in France differ?

different channels – with employees

In France, our focus is mainly on

through the intranet site, consumers via

sustainability and financial reporting.

Annual turnover:

the company website and with investors

It’s a new market and although we are

through the annual report.

a leader in the UK, French companies

£16.9m

46 - info - november / december 2018

Employees: 210

CULTURE – WHAT'S ON A SELECTION OF RECOMMENDED CULTURAL EVENTS

N AT I O N A L GA L L ERI ES O F SCOT L A N D, ED I N BU RG H Pin-Ups - Toulouse-Lautrec and the Art of Celebrity

©Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Paris in the fin-de-siècle was known as the 'city of pleasure’; famed for its cabarets, dance halls and cafés. Most famous of all were the nightspots of the bohemian district of Montmartre, where ToulouseLautrec lived, worked and socialised, including the now legendary café-cabarets Le Moulin Rouge and Le Chat Noir. Pin-Ups: Toulouse Lautrec and the Art of Celebrity will focus on Toulouse-Lautrec’s lithographic posters, portfolio prints and illustrations which made stars of Montmartre’s venues and their entertainers - personalities such as Yvette Guilbert, Jane Avril and Aristide Bruant. I On now until 20 January 2019/ Tickets available from £10 Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Troupe de Mlle Églantine (Poster), 1896, colour lithograph. Collection: Victoria and Albert Museum, London, given by Mrs G. R. Halkett.

B I R M I N G H A M M US EU M S, B I R M I N G H A M Women Power Protest

©The artist

©Angela Kelly

Marking a century since the first women won the right to vote, 'Women Power Protest' brings together modern and contemporary artworks from the Arts Council Collection and Birmingham’s to celebrate female artists who have explored protest, social commentary and identity in their work.

Showcasing pieces by celebrated artists including Susan Hiller, Lubaina Himid, and Mary Kelly, as well as sometimes controversial artists such as Sam Taylor-Johnson, Sonia Boyce, and Margaret Harrison, the exhibition will not shy away from difficult subjects, nor underplay the genius behind these artworks. I From now until 31 March 2019 / Admission free

Angela Kelly, Untitled (Woman's Identity)

48 - info - november / december 2018

Claudette Johnson, Trilogy (Part Three) Woman in Red, 1982-86. Arts Council Collection, Southbank Centre, London

CULTUR E – WHAT ' S ON

WH I T WO RT H A RT GA L L ERY, M A N CH ES T ER We are 11: Stanley Grove Primary Academy Over the past year, 11 lead curators have selected works from the Whitworth’s collection that connect with themes important to them: family, friends, school, entertainment, worries and hopes for the future. The exhibition includes works that span 400 years of creativity, from the casket embroidered by eleven-year old Hannah Smith in the 1640s to Happy Days wallpaper, showing a futuristic sky filled with spaceships. I From now until 27 January 2019 / Admission free

K ELVI N G ROVE A RT GA L L ERY A N D M USEU M , G L ASG OW Brushes with War Brushes with War is a powerful and emotive insight into the

Among the artists are those who fought in combat, were

experience of soldiers from World War I through the drawings

wounded in action, taken prisoner, and survived aerial dogfights.

and paintings they created.

It depicts the patriotic optimism in the early stages of war, to

Featuring original artworks by German, Austrian, French,

the hardship, monotony and dark humour of daily life in the

Belgian, British, American, Canadian, Australian and Russian

trenches. Their perspectives are expressive yet independent of

soldier-artists, the exhibition provides an authentic, uncensored

official censorship and free from the embellishment of popular

account of the experience of ordinary soldiers. It offers clear

propaganda. I

glimpses into World War I through the eyes of the men who

From now until 6 January / Tickets available from £7

Copyright for the 3 images: © Joel R. Parkinson, World War History & Art Museum

actually fought.

Above: Rats, 1916, F.J. Mears, British Left: Red Cross Nurse, 1916, L. Sharrat, British Right: American Infantryman, 1918, M. Mahut, French

info

- november / december 2018 - 49

CULTUR E – WHAT ' S ON

WA L K ER A RT GA L L ERY, L IV ERP O O L

As part of the Arts Council Collection National Partners Programme, Liverpool-based artist Leo Fitzmaurice will create an assembly of portraits within Room 9 at the Gallery.

The artist will gather together artworks from both the Arts Council Collection and National Museums Liverpool’s own collections, with a painting from the Lady Lever Art Gallery called Psamathe (1879-80) by Frederic, Lord Leighton as a key work in the exhibition. This image shows a female nude from behind and the subject appears to be looking out to the sea in front of her. Fitzmaurice will aim to expand upon this 'tone of inquisitiveness in the world beyond' through a selection of works dictated by the direction in which the sitters seem to be looking. More than 30 portraits by artists including Frank Auerbach, David Bomberg, Milena Dragicevic, Ken Kiff, Marie-Louise von Motesiczky and Philip Sutton will feature in the exhibition. I From now until 17 March 2019 / Admission free

©Gareth Jones

Between You and Me and Everything Else - Leo Fitzmaurice

Leo Fitzmaurice in the exhibition

V& A D U N D EE, D U N D EE Ocean Liners: Speed and Style Ocean Liners: Speed and Style is their first in a series of major changing exhibitions showing the very best of international design. I From now until 24 February 2019 / Tickets available from £6

©Collection French Lines

© Victoria and Albert Museum, London

From Brunel’s 1859 steamship, the Great Eastern, to the launch of the QE2 in 1969, Ocean Liners is the first exhibition to fully explore the design and cultural impact of ocean liners on an international scale, focussing on their promotion, engineering, interior design, as well as the lifestyle on board.

Two-piece bathing suit made of yellow wool jersey by Finnigans Ltd., London 1937-39

50 - info - november / december 2018

Normandie in New York, 1935-39

LIFE S T YLE – BOOK S

THESE BOOKS, RECENTLY PUBLISHED IN ENGLISH, WERE SELECTED BY THE FRENCH INSTITUTE IN THE UK

THE ARAB OF THE FUTURE III

STRIKE YOUR HEART

by Riad

by Amélie

Sattouf Published by Hodder Translated by Sam Taylor Original title: L’Arabe du futur 3

Nothomb Editions Translated by Alison Anderson Original title: Frappe-toi le cœur Published by Europa

After having followed her husband to Libya and then to Syria,

Diane is raised by a mother so plagued by jealousy of her

Riad's mother can't take any more of village life in Ter Maaleh:

own daughter that she is incapable of showing affection to

she wants to go back to France. Young Riad sees his father torn

her. Despite this, Diane grows up to become a brilliant young

between his wife's aspirations and the weight of family traditions...

woman who rejects societal expectations. She forges her own

The Arab of the Future tells the story of Riad Sattouf's

path, dismissing suitors and pursuing her dream of becoming a

childhood in the Middle East. The first volume covers the period

cardiologist. At university, she befriends the assistant professor

from 1978 to 1984: from birth to the age of six, little Riad is

Olivia. Intelligent and cold, Olivia’s ambition and need to feel

shuttled between Libya, Brittany and Syria. The second volume

superior to others drags Diane down to a dark place.

tells the story of his first year of school in Syria (1984-1985). This

With her trademark wit, brevity, and tightly wound plots,

third volume sees him between the ages of six and nine, the time

Amélie Nothomb, one of Europe’s most acclaimed and beloved

he becomes aware of the society he is growing up in. I

authors, has crafted an insightful story about a modern heroine who will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page. I

THE ORDER OF THE DAY

THE LADY AND THE LITTLE FOX FUR

by Eric

by Violette

Leduc Published by Viking Penguin Random House Translated by Derek Coltman Original title: La Femme au petit renard

Vuillard

Published by Picador Translated by Mark

Polizzotti du Jour

Original title: L’Ordre

The titans of German industry – set to prosper under the Nazi government – gather to lend their support to Adolf Hitler. The An old woman lives alone in a tiny attic flat in Paris, counting out

Austrian Chancellor realizes too late that he has wandered into a

coffee beans every morning beneath the roar of the overhead

trap, as Hitler delivers the ultimatum that will lay the groundwork

metro. Starving, she spends her days walking around the city,

for Germany’s annexation of Austria. Winston Churchill joins Neville

each step a bid for recognition of her own existence. She rides

Chamberlain for a farewell luncheon held in honour of Joachim

crowded metro carriages to feel the warmth of other bodies,

von Ribbentrop: German Ambassador to England, soon to be

and watches the hot batter of pancakes drip from the hands of

Foreign Minister in the Nazi government, and future defendant at

street-sellers.

the Nuremberg trials.

The Lady and the Little Fox Fur is a stunning portrait of

Suffused with dramatic tension, this unforgettable novel tells

Paris, of the invisibility we all feel in a big city, and ultimately of

the tragic story of how the actions of a few powerful men brought

the hope and triumph of a woman who reclaims her place in

the world to the brink of war. I

the world. I

info

- november / december 2018 - 51

CROSSING CULTURES A new festival celebrated creativity beyond boundaries and collaboration between French and British cultures

C

utting-edge arts and culture from Britain and France took

British acts, rapper Jeshi and soul singer songwriter, Jordan

over the lofty campus of Central Saint Martins in Granary

Mackampa.

Square, the art college near King’s Cross in London last month.

Bringing together some of the most talked about up-

Sally Davies, Managing Director of U-Live and one of the coorganisers, said that the collaborative element gives the festival

and-comers in the worlds of cinema, music, comedy, fashion,

its USP. 'It provides a point of discovery that is extremely

gastronomy and art, the Le Crxssing festival was a platform for

exciting for audiences. We did it at last years' inaugural festival,

emerging and established talents, and welcomed 1,500 people

and plan to build on the concept.'

by invitation and public ballot to attend.

Fern Brady, the Scottish stand-up comedian and writer,

Support and partnerships

catered her set in the adjacent comedy space to a cultural

The festival brought together institutions and partners

mixed crowd, while chef Gregory Marchand (aka ‘Frenchie’)

passionate about reinforcing the friendship between France

began setting up a pop-up kitchen for a cross-cultural

and Britain, including several Chamber member companies

gastronomic experience.

L’Occitane, Getlink, EDF Energy, HSBC, Eurostar and Institut

Headlining were Britain’s The Kills and France’s La Femme, with other music acts including Eddy de Pretto and General

Francais. The French Chamber was a partner of the event.

Sponsors L'Occitane and HSBC each provided content, with

Elektriks, plus comedians Joel Dommett, Airnadette, and Paul

the high street beauty brand creating a relaxing 'provencal'

Taylor.

break-out space, and HSBC and Master & Dynamic curating a

Art displays provided by Toqué Frères and commentary from gallery owner and street-art champion Magda Danysz

photography exhibit supported by M&D audio tools.

Gwenaelle Delos, Managing Director of Atout France (and

were brought together by ambassadors TV and movie star

event sponsor) noted that the event has great potential to

Antoine de Caunes and world-class comedian and actor Eddie

evolve into a larger format next year.

Izzard.

The festival encouraged collaboration between artists on

According to Davies, plans for next year include opening the festival to the public, as a ticketed event, increasing

both sides of the Channel, leveraging what festival organisers,

the number of attendees, and continuing to push new and

which include Vivendi and U-Live, describe as ‘a rich shared

emerging talent. I

cultural heritage and friendship forged through long standing collaboration.’

One of the highlights was the ‘mashup’ collaboration between artists and musicians from both countries, this year showcasing two distinctive French artists, Claire Laffut and General Elektriks in an exclusive musical alliance with

Left: French singer Eddy de Pretto on the main stage

52 - info - november / december 2018

One of the highlights was the 'mashup' collaboration between artists and musicians from both countries

Right: Headliners La Femme perform

LIFE S T YLE – WINE

THE JAPANESE Wine Story In terms of national character, the Japanese like beauty. Great wine has to be as nice to look at as to taste

W

hen in 1543 Portuguese sailors landed in Japan, they found a country which was cultivating vines for at least

one thousand years.

These first Europeans visitors, quickly followed by Jesuits, encountered local farmers who had mastered the production of alcohol from fermented fruits and cereals, including sake, the now trendy rice wine.

Yet we have to wait until the 1860s for the creation of a proper wine industry in the country. Indeed, in the Meiji era, when Japanese leaders began a period of westernisation, the implications for the alcohol industry were profound. Japanese students were sent to Germany to learn the craft of beer production; to Scotland to learn about Whisky; and to France to learn how to make wine.

The current climate Today wine is made in thirty-six of the Japan’s forty-seven prefectures. A lot of these vines are found on Hokkaido Island in the North, while most of the regional appellations are found in the more promising wine regions of Yamanashi and Nagano.

The main challenge for Japanese viticulture is the wet climate. The rainy season lasts from June to the middle of July,

The national grape has to be the white, light, pale, herbal and delicate Koshu, cultivated for a thousand years in the Yamanashi region

with the exception of Hokkaido. The cool climate doesn’t help with the ripening of fruits and despite having adapted grapes varieties, the wines have a very low level of alcohol.

Taste test

Japan is also commonly attacked by typhoons with heavy

Last month, I had the privilege to be invited to the private club

rain and strong wind. To protect their crops, producers

67 Pall Mall on behalf of the Japanese economic bureau in

developed techniques to protect the vines, including in some

London to taste more than seventy different Japanese wines,

instances placing caps around individual grapes.

still and sparkling.

These costly conditions and other factors meant that

My favourites were the white Koshu-based wines from the

Japanese wines carried high prices compared to their world

producer Hiro Aruga of Aruga Branca (part of the Katsunuma

competitors.

Jozo Winery established in 1937 by his ancestors in Katsunuma, Yamanashi prefecture).

National grape

The name of the wine and the label of the vineyard are

The national grape has to be the white, light, pale, herbal and

inspired by the historic influence of the Portuguese arrival in

delicate Koshu. Cultivated for more than a thousand years in

Japan. Aruga Branca was also said to be the favourite wine of

the Yamanashi region, the Koshu is resistant to most disease

the author and Nobel laureate, Yasunari Kawabata.

and tolerant to rain and cold.

In red wine: On the hillsides in the Nagano region, the local cross Muscat-Bailey is now joined by Cabernet Franc and a very

What could be a better pairing while reading his masterpiece, First Snow on Fuji, than lifting a glass of this beautiful white wine. I

promising Pinot Noir planted by a renowned French winemaker who decided to invest in this promising wine country.

Thibault Lavergne

TO ORDER THE ABOVE-MENTIONED WINES AND OTHERS, CONTACT: E: thibault@winestory.co.uk T: +44 (0)7921 770 691 W: www.winestory.co.uk

info

- november / december 2018 - 53

A PRACTICAL APPROACH TO HUMAN RESOURCES IN GREAT BRITAIN

New to HR in the UK?

ÂŁ15

Whether you are working within a large HR team, operating as an external advisor or are a business leader with responsibilities for the HR aspects of your organisation, this guide will help you to prepare for the challenges you face when working with employees in the UK. This guide is also much appreciated by the senior management and HR staff of UK subsidiaries of French companies.

Millennials, working conditions, salaries or payroll, the guide provides an overview of all the topics that relate to managing a workforce in Great Britain. It is the reference tool to do HR in the UK! Areas covered include: How to recruit - The legal framework - What salary and benefits? - Payroll, taxation and other charges - Recruitment on the internet - Working conditions

Buy our practical guide on: www.frenchchamber.co.uk

Translated by HL TRAD

AT THE CHAMBER

From left to right: Chamber MD Florence Gomez, French Ambassador HE Jean-Pierre Jouyet, and Chamber President Fabienne Viala

I

t was pleased to see so many of you

opportunity to announce the

strong and continues to deliver for our

at LeBridge, our very first corporate

appointment of Fabienne Viala,

members.

start-up matchmaking event last

Chairman of Bouygues UK and

The Ambassador, HE Mr Jean-

month. We were delighted with the

UK Country Director of Bouygues

Pierre Jouyet, recently welcomed

very positive feedback we have had

Construction’s businesses, as President

a delegation to the Residence for a

from partners, sponsors, speakers and

of the Board of the Chamber. Fabienne

closed-session talk on Brexit. He also

participants.

succeeds Estelle Brachlianoff who

addresses our membership in an

was promoted to COO of Veolia

exclusive interview in the pages of this

Reactor near London’s Silicon

Group. We want to thank Estelle for

magazine, reflecting on his first year

Roundabout, generated a lot of buzz,

the tremendous work she did over

in the role and the strength of doing

with more than a hundred mentions of

the last three years and we are very

business in UK regions. (see page 8)

our Twitter hashtag, #lebridge18, and

happy to welcome Fabienne as our new

well over a thousand comments, likes

President.

The event, held at the Microsoft

and shares across our social media.

We are continuing to develop

Looking ahead, we are very excited about the upcoming Franco British Business Awards, held on 26

For a full recap of the event, please see

projects with our established network,

November at the Langham Hotel for

page 70.

most recently collaborating with the

the first time. The application window

communication department of the

is now closed, after having received a

continued commitment to innovation

French Embassy to highlight how we

record number of applications. Our jury

and to helping French and British

help French citizens find a job in the

will be meeting soon to select winners

companies embrace the latest business

UK and to promote our recruitment

in three categories – CSR, Sustainability

tools.

service on their Facebook page. Our

and Start-up & SME. Good luck to all! I

relationship with the Embassy remains

FG

This event demonstrates our

I would also like to take this

info

- november / december 2018 - 55

NE WS – AT THE CHAMBE R

The Chamb er in the N ews Les Echos - Fabienne Viala veut construire des ponts entre Paris et Londres

F

abienne Viala, Chairman of Bouygues Construction, featured in an article in Les Echos. Her effort to create bridges between Paris and London was the headline, with her interest in the two cultures shining through, especially as the new President of the French Chamber.

‘In England, we tell our children when they leave for school in the morning “Have a nice day and have fun.” In France, we say “work hard.” The British focus on what they have done well, while the French always look for ways to learn from their mistakes,’ said Viala.

The article depicts her rise through the ranks at Bouygues, highlighting her technical expertise as well as her fight to modernise the construction industry and encourage more diversity in the workforce. I

French Morning London - Le Brexit oblige les entreprises à adopter de nouvelles stratégies de recrutement

S

ylwia Radzio, Head of Recruitment at the Chamber, was interviewed for an article in French Morning London, on the perils of Brexit for French and international companies choosing to stay in the UK. She notes an increase in jobs posted, reacting to outgoing foreign workers, as well as a decrease in the number of technicians and engineers available. She says that the Chamber has adapted its services in these new circumstances, with online interviews to save time for the candidates and more focus on growing its profile portfolio to fill specific roles. I

Familiar Faces

I

rène

Engelhardt-Regnier

was account manager at the

Chamber

from

2010-2015.

L

auriane

Veron

spent

9

months at the Chamber in

2015 as an intern in the events

Then the Fintech start-up life

department. Since then, she

beckoned. She left for fast-

finished her BA International

growing

Business

company everything

money

exchange

Tramonex, HR

and Masters in International

and

Marketing and Management,

accountancy, to office support.

living all over the world in the

From there, she moved to

process. Landing back in the

blockchain

Altalix,

UK, she will now start as a

working alongside the founder, Marc Avedissian, as business

permanent member of staff, as

manager. She returns to the Chamber as Senior Account

Events Coordinator. Welcome

Manager, with a better understanding of how to help French

back! I

Irène Engelhardt-Regnier

from

Administration

doing

company

and British entrepreneurs avoid pitfalls and meet their targets.

Welcome back! I 56 - info - november / december 2018

Lauriane Veron

NEW MEMBERS 6 NEW CORPORATE MEMBERS BATEAUX LONDON – WINDSOR – SODEXO The Best Dining Experience on the Thames Represented by Pierre-Louis Phelipot, General Manager Bateaux London is the capital’s leading dining cruise experience on the Thames. Delicious food, striking views and live entertainment combine to create unforgettable moments. Customers can choose from our daily lunch, afternoon tea or dinner cruises. Symphony and Harmony vessels can be hired privately for a corporate party, award ceremony or a business meeting. Freshly cooked food on board and live entertainment ensures a high quality experience for every occasions. www.bateauxlondon.com

BEL UK Iconic Brands for Sustainable Healthy Snacking Represented by Benoit Dadolle, General Manager Bel UK is the UK subsidiary of the French cheese manufacturer, fromageries Bel S.A., one of the largest branded cheese manufacturers in Europe with a turnover in excess of €3 billion. We have a presence in all key and emerging markets around the world with internationally recognised brand names such as Babybel, Leerdammer, The Laughing Cow, Boursin and Port Salut. www.groupe-bel.com

GETT TAXI LTD Ground Transportation Services Represented by Matteo De Renzi, CEO UK App-based ground transportation solutions for corporate travellers and the general public. More than 10,000 black taxis in London and in 20 other cities in the UK, global coverage through roaming agreements with selected partner fleets. 24h/7 call center support based in Central London, best rated drivers in London, with an average arrival time of less than 3 minutes at your doorstep. www.gett.com/uk

RENAULT-NISSAN CONSULTING We Provide Lean Consultancy, Training Support Represented by Justin Elias, Director - Business Development Renault-Nissan Consulting provides consultancy, training and digital transformation services. We have over 28 years’ experience of helping our parent company and organisations of all sectors achieve operational excellence. We deliver measurable value for our clients, all in a spirit of true partnership – we call it 'sharing the experience'. www.rnconsulting.co.uk

TAYLOR WESSING LLP Law Firm Represented by Jean-David Behlow, Associate Taylor Wessing is a full-service international law firm, working with clients in the world’s most dynamic industries. We take a singleminded approach to advising our clients, helping them succeed by thinking innovatively about their business issues. We support clients wherever they want to do business. Our 33 offices around the world blend the best of local business, industry and cultural knowledge with international experience to provide astutely commercial solutions for our clients. www.taylorwessing.com

VENTE-PRIVEE.COM Marketleader in Entertaining Shopping Flash Sales Represented by Cyril Charton, Sales Director UK vente-privee.com is the pioneer of the online flash sale concept and is the global industry leader. Specialising since 2001 in helping brands manage excess stock, its access is reserved for its 72 million members worldwide. Registration on the website vente-privee.com is free and without obligation. Sales are limited in time (3-5 days) and are organised in close collaboration with over 7,000 international brands in all areas: ready-to-wear, fashion accessories, home furnishings, toys, sports, wine... vente-privee.com offers prices benefiting from strong discounts (-50 to -70%) compared to the recommended prices. With 6,000 employees in 14 countries including the UK, vente-privee.com has achieved 3.3 billion euros turnover in 2017. www.vente-privee.com

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- november / december 2018 - 57

NE W ME MBE R S – AT THE CHAMBE R

18 NEW ACTIVE MEMBERS Acorus Networks – Web & Network DDoS Protection Solutions - www.acorus-networks.com Represented by Olivier Melwig, Managing Director Andjaro – Internal Talent Marketplace Solutions - www.andjaro.com Represented by Nick Adams, Managing Director UK Anorak Technologies – Smart Life Insurance Adviser - www.anorak.life Represented by David Vanek, CFO Aurexia Ltd – Financial Services Consultancy - www.aurexia.com Represented by Swann Redslob, Director Birdie – Holistic Tech Platform for Elderly Care at Home - birdie.care Represented by Maxime Parmentier, CEO The CPD Certification Service Ltd – Certification of CDP Compliant Material - www.cpduk.co.uk Represented by Martin Rowe, Head of Operations Downs Solicitors – Law Firm - www.downslaw.co.uk Represented by Samar Shams, Head of Immigration Drivy – Europe's Leading Car Sharing Platform - www.drivy.co.uk Represented by Sabrina Johnson, PR & Communications Manager ECA International Ltd – Software & Data for International Mobility Remuneration - www.eca-international.com Represented by Nelly Le Breton Drnovsky, Business Development Manager Gazette Restaurants – French Brasseries, Restaurants & Outside Catering - www.gazettebrasserie.co.uk Represented by Walter Lecocq, Director Innvino – Wine Import Company - www.innvino.co.uk Represented by Sebastien Faelens, Director Kalory Photo & Video – Creative Campaigns, Beautiful Interiors, Smart Portraits - www.kalory.co.uk Represented by Franck Jehanne, Director Maison Catry – Interior Design Products & Advice - www.lesmanufacturescatry.eu Represented by Gonzague Vanoverberghe, Store & UK Export Manager Mind Partners LLP – Executive Search - www.mindpartners.fr Represented by Valeryane Elphick, Partner Reckon Digital – AI-based Solutions for Process Optimisation - reckondigital.com Represented by Joanna Pawlik, Product Strategist & Data Scientist Tilkee – Digital Document Tracking - www.tilkee.com Represented by Kate Pringle, Head of UK Business Development We Are Plot Ltd – A Dynamic Tech Company that Invests and Builds New Companies - www.plotdigital.com Represented by Philip Warner, Founder & Managing Director Weologix – Human Analytics for Individuals, Teams & Organisations - www.weologix.co Represented by Caroline Tchekhoff, Co-Founder

58 - info - november / december 2018

START-UP & SME FORUM

Converting leads into real business The Club explored a step-by-step process to generating new clients and customers

T

he Start-up and SME Club welcomed as its guest speaker Cyrus Tchahardehi, Founder of the entrepreneurship and

professional development podcast La Voie Des Grands.

The session was chaired by Sébastien Goldenberg, CEO & Co-Founder, TheHouseShop.com, and Jeanne Monchovet, Founder and Principal Consultant of Olystix.

The basics Tchahardehi outlined a three step process to building your business. First is to understand how many clients you have and who they are. Then you have to bring a value to the market.

This allows you to take the final step of creating a way to acquire new clients.

Central to this process is understanding your client on a demographic and personal level. Tchahardehi advises to

Tchahardehi advises to create avatars (complete with names, ages and genders) to form a better idea of your client

create avatars (complete with names, ages and genders) to form a better idea of your client.

The next step is to figure out how you can transform this

communication, shop front, leafleting, etc.

client’s life with your product or service. ‘They [customers]

How: Become a member, free trial, special discount, free

buy into the idea of transformation, for themselves or their

consultation, case studies, etc.

business,’ says Tchahardehi.

In this context, social status plays an important role.

4 - Convert

Tchahardehi gives the examples of having the latest iPhone at

Aim: Increase their level of commitment by offering time or

a professional dinner. ‘This can give you a specific status, in this

money

case a social status that you are aiming for.’

Where: Your website, store, email, social media, etc.

Mapping client acquisition

How: Ticket offers, special discounts, free trials, etc.

Tchahardehi advocates a specific step-by-step process to

5 - Excite

achieve the main goal of creating a client acquisition engine:

Aim: Create a wow moment with your product Where & How: Using your product, emails, quick wins

1 - Awareness Aim: Catch their attention with one of your products or

6 - Ascend

services

You have a new client who buys your main product and

Where: Social media, paid advertising, targeted

additional services

communication, etc.

How: Attention grabbing, content such as videos (title,

7 - Advocate

image, display)

Aim: The client shares their experience of your product Where: Your website, emails, social media advertising,

2 - Engage

word of mouth

Aim: Show clients and customers what you do (and what

How: Client testimonial, client review, sharing results

you can do for them) Where: Social media, paid advertising, targeted

8 - Promote

communication, shop front, leafleting, etc.

Aim: Your client promotes your product to other people

How: Videos, articles, quizzes, discounts, freebies

Where: Your website, in store, email, social media advertising

3 - Subscribe

How: Event invitations, speaking engagements, one-way

Aim: Collect costumer details: Website cookies (to collect

referral offers. I

traffic/user data), personal details Where: Social media, paid advertising, targeted

info

- november / december 2018 - 59

CLIMATE CHANGE & SUSTAINABILITY FORUM

The passive house A community centre in North London provided an example of a working ‘passivehaus’ building

T

he

latest

Climate

Change

and

are roughly 65,000 buildings – for both

visited

The

domestic and business use – that meet

Mildmay Community Partnership, an

Passivhaus standards. A thousand of

innovative community centre in the heart

these are homes in the UK.

Sustainability

Forum

of Islington. The visit included a tour of

Passivehaus

building

principles

of the premises led by architect Justin

include

Bere of Founder of Bere:architects.

insulation, minimal thermal bridging

Also speaking were Herve Mariage,

high

levels

of

continuous

(meaning the areas such as corners or

Heat Pump Sales Manager at Mitsubishi

window sills), controlled ventilation and

Heavy Industries Group, and John

insulation and low impact climate control,

heat recovery, the maximisation of solar

Palmer of the Passivehaus Trust.

such as a ventilation system consistently

and internal heating. The orientation of

The session was chaired by Richard

supplies fresh air and the circulation

the main windows of a building is also

Brown CBE, Chairman of the Franchise

of hold and cold air, depending on the

prime consideration.

Advisory Panel for the Department

need.

Heat pumps

for Transport and former CEO and

The concept results in ultra-low

Chairman of Eurostar and Jean-Philippe

energy buildings that require little energy

The session also heard from Hervé

Verdier, Founding Partner, Verdier &

for space heating or cooling.

Mariage,

Co. Corporate Advisory.

The passive house

New approaches

who

spoke

about

the

commercial grade heat pumps produced by

Mitsubishi

Heavy

Industries,

a

The session kicked off with short

multinational

The session learned that ‘passivehaus’

presentation about Ashen, a London-

equipment and electronics company.

is a designation for energy efficiency

based charity that works in the field of

The company produces the Q-ton

in a building – one which reduces the

sustainable energy and development.

heat pump, which can be used in a variety

building's ecological footprint.

engineering,

electrical

Having launched a new strategy in

of applications for the supply of sanitary

These types of buildings allow for

September, the charity is now focusing

hot water. With an industry leading

heating and cooling related energy

on working more closely with metro

performance, it is the ideal system for

savings of up to 90 percent, compared

mayors and on energy access, including

delivering hot water requirements in

with typical building stock, and over

an equitable transition to renewable

commercial buildings like hotels, care

seventy-five percent, compared with

energy.

homes and leisure centres. It generates

average new builds. In terms of heating

John Palmer’s organisation, the

hot water from 60°C to 90°C without the

oil, passive house buildings use less

Passivhaus Trust, is the UK affiliate os

requirement for an electric immersion

than 1.5 litres per square meter of living

the International Passivhaus Association

heater backup.

space per year – far less than typical low-

which promotes and supports the

Heat pumps are part of the mix when

energy buildings.

adoption of passive house building

moving towards a more efficient heating

techniques. He reported that there

and cooling systems for buildings. I

They achieve this through rigorous

A BOU T MILD M AY The Mildmay Community Centre, built circa 1890 as a generating station for London’s tram network, is the first certified Passivhaus non-domestic retrofit in the UK. Rescued from dereliction in 1973 by the Mildmay Community Partnership, the community centre is located in one of London’s most deprived areas and was in urgent need of total renovation, being un-insulated, inaccessible and only 60 percent usable. Redevelopment has substantially uplifted the surrounding area, with the building’s bright white and grey render transforming the visual landscape of the estate and creating a welcoming hub for the community. Refurbishment has provided more usable space through efficient, internal replanning, without increasing the building footprint and also on reducing overall energy consumption.

60 - info - november / december 2018

RETAIL FORUM

Champions of e-commerce and social media The latest Retail Forum heard from successful digital and e-commerce entrepreneurs and experts in the retail sector

A

ttendees welcomed guest speakers Julien Callède, internet entrepreneur and co-founder of Made.com, and Rosanna

Falconer, digital strategist and co-founder of FashMash. The session was chaired by Alain Harfouche, General Manager UK & Ireland at L'Occitane, and Catherine Palmer, Legal Director of Joseph.

Product first According to Callède, the activity of a successful e-commerce company should be focused on brand, tech, innovation, and culture. At the outset, a focus on the product is paramount.

‘If you want success in your market you have to invest in your product.’

This is the best way according to Callède to stay ahead of your competitors. ‘You invest in your product with time, money and creativeness. To gain competitiveness with your product you will have to be more original than your counterparts on the markets,’ says Callède.

Other companies may focus on marketing or competing on price, but these do not offer the same potential return.

‘The marketing option will consume a big chunk of your money for a small result. If you try to compete on price you will

Just because an Instagrammer has two million subscribers, doesn’t necessarily mean that this is the right choice for your brand. If the product isn’t appropriate for him or her, a campaign will not bring value to your product

lower your margin and be competing with bigger corporations

Social media

such as Amazon – and you will not be able to stand for long.’

According to Falconer, the fashion industry was one of the first

The customer is key

to fully embrace the power of social media. Cutting out the ‘middle man’ of the press and relating directly to customers is

Callède also stresses the need to know your customer – who

now central to any marketing strategy, and this is only growing

they are and what their needs are. The issue is especially

with the rising focus on ‘influencers’ and brand ambassadors.

important in the e-commerce sector, where there can be barriers to the interaction with customers.

‘Data helps you to understand them but communication

Influencers increase the amount of product you can sell, but Falconer advises that finding the right fit between product and person is key.

is paramount. If you communicate directly with them you will

‘Just because an Instagrammer has two million subscribers,

hear positive and negative reactions on your products, which

doesn’t necessarily mean that this is the right choice for your

will help you collect further feedback, improve your product,

brand. If the product isn’t appropriate for him or her, a campaign

respond to customers’ expectation, and even react to a bad

will not bring value to your product,’ says Falconer.

buzz,’ says Callède.

Sometimes the best influence is already known to you. ‘You

Callède also recommended that e-commerce companies

don’t have to focus on Macro-influencers only; you already have

consider investing in tech at the outset to avoid slow

influencers who follow you on social media and would be more

development later on; consider that ‘innovation doesn’t mean

than happy to work with you and present your products.’

invention’, and that disruptions don’t have to be a complete new

According to Falconer, one of the best examples of a successful

concept; and, in terms of culture, being able to recruit people

social media influencer is Kim Kardashian. She’s carefully

with different backgrounds is an asset.

developed an image on social media that can be used it to sell her own products.I

info

- november / december 2018 - 61

HR FORUM

Innovative Employee Engagement Practices

Getting the best out of the workforce means helping employees reach their goals

T

he latest HR Forum explored effective ways to get the most out of

The path to high performance

employees — how to motivate them to

According to Duhaldeborde the

the achieve their best performance.

defining characteristics of high

The Chamber welcomed guest

performance organisations are one’s

speakers Anne Donald, Associate,

which have a strong identification of the

Evolution Coaching Europe, and Yves

company mission and image amongst

Duhaldeborde, Senior Director, Talent

employees, with maximum buy in to the

& Rewards, Willis Towers Watson. The

organisational strategy.

session was co-chaired by Pia Dekkers,

Being engaged in the work environment means taking pride in the company and having belief in its purpose. It also means being willing to go the extra mile

This involves a great drive, staying

Human Resources Director, Chanel

agile and innovative, and showing

and Melanie Stancliffe, Partner –

a mastery of change management.

Employment, Irwin Mitchell LLP.

They engender trust, respect and fair

in terms of performance and profit.

treatment, and crucially they provide

When you feel good in a team, you go

opportunity to grow and develop, with

beyond what you need to do for the

long-term career maximising potential.

money.’

Engage to succeed Duhaldeborde defined the practice of employee engagement as a way of

His top three takeaways are the

‘Good relationships are productive

Donald notes five typical challenges

understanding what people are looking

recognition that: 1) leadership is a

that arise in the workplace: conflict,

for at work, and motivating them to their

top driver of engagement and that

through personality differences,

peak performance.

building trust is essential; 2) employee

access to resources, leadership style;

listening should be at the heart of

new people on the team/ forming

engagement which is made up of

an engagement strategy; and 3)

productive relationships; lack of clarity

the three ‘E’s: Engaged, Enabled and

engagement should be business owned,

from key people; new leaders knowing

Energised. Being engaged in the work

HR facilitated and employee involved.

how to motivate and enable people to

He outlined a model of sustainable

environment means taking pride in

be the best they can be; and change

the company and having belief in its

Deeper levels

purpose. It also means being willing to

Donald, a former head of HR for

go the extra mile and give what he calls,

Unilever, asks, what do successful

‘discretionary effort.’

firms like Unilever, Exane Paribas,

coaching practice, challenging them

Kraft Europe and Fremantle Media

to dig more deeply into their motives

Enterprises have in common?

and behaviours. Her goal is to help

Being enabled means having a local work environment that supports productivity and performance. Being

Her answer: ‘A belief in human

management, for example, moving from a national to a global team.

Donald works with clients in a

employees of all levels build new

energised refers to having emotional

potential. They pay attention to

perspectives that are more useful in

wellbeing at work.

performance, and they understand

engaging with the world, and the world

the link between performance and

of work. I

relationship.’

62 - info - november / december 2018

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND INNOVATION FORUM

Sponsored by

Digital fraud and cyber security

The latest Digital Transformation & Innovation Forum explored the impact and business relevance of cyber security

T

he Forum welcomed Chris Cox, UK & Export Sales at

and an employee is off sick, your business could still operate.

Codra Software, and Alex Tarter, Chief Cyber Constultant

If you’ve migrated all your sales systems onto an ERP system

Creative at Thales UK, in a session chaired by Christophe

and that system falls over, can that business still operate?’ says

Chazot, Group Head of Innovation at HSBC Bank Plc.

Tarter.

The session heard that the digital landscape hides weaknesses which can be easily exploited, and that both individuals and companies alike are susceptible to cyber

This is where cyber security becomes a strategic business concern.

threats. Cyber security is therefore rising to the top of the pack

A broader impact

as a priority for the day to day functionality of a business.

Cox presents the scale of the potential threat. Industrial

‘The digital revolution is available to everybody,’ says Tarter.

organisations operate with supervisory control and data

It requires little capital investment or technical know-how. It

acquisition (SCADA) systems. These collate data for monitoring

is inherently more disruptive and pervasive in nature than

large scale industrial processes. There can be severe

previous industrial revolutions.

repercussions if this integrated system is infiltrated.

Cox highlights four examples, depicting various weaknesses

‘The general philosophy is that computers are more reliable than people. But computers must be operated in the way that

of the system: 1. 2000: A disgruntled ex-employee had set up a water

they are intended,’ says Tarter. ‘You think [a system] should only be able to operate in one way and it turns out it can operate in

treatment company’s Wi-Fi system. He used his

a somewhat different way.’ It is through these gaps that cyber

understanding of this connection, and lack of security in

threats can surface.

this early stage tech, to release 800,000 litres of sewage 2. 2003: The SoBig virus was transmitted via email. This

Digital Fraud

Hackers therefore only need to find one way to disrupt what

a computer is intended to do. Attackers aim to trick either the

contamination infected and disrupted an entire train signaling network through their interconnected systems 3. 2005: An employee unknowingly used an infected

user or the computer processes to do something that they

should not, often by pretending to be someone they are not.

‘Think of computer security as fraud,’ says Tarter.

computer across 13 car production plants to install updates, causing disruption to 50,000 auto workers 4. 2010: A USB connection was used to transfer the

Opportunities for this digital fraud are growing as technology

Stuxnet virus into the SCADA system of a nuclear facility,

develops. Tools which were once the remit of the nation-state

which reprogrammed the controllers to break the

are now being replicated for use by anyone. Hackers can imitate

machinery

legitimate email chains which bypass spam filters. ‘Attacking a

These are examples with visible effects. But attacks can often

computer gets easier over time, it never gets harder,’ says

go unnoticed.

Tarter. ‘The attackers are getting smarter.’

‘You either know that you’ve been attacked, or you don’t

‘Using your technology can make you really efficient but it can make you fragile. When you have people doing everything

know you’ve been attacked, but there is no “I haven’t been attacked,”’ says Tarter. I SL

3 BAS I C ST EPS TO A CY B ER S EC U R I T Y R E V I E W: 1. What are the system’s weak points?

2. How likely is an attack?

3. Review these two points regularly

info

- november / december 2018 - 63

LUXURY CLUB

Men’s style on screen The Luxury Club enjoyed a documentary film screening about the world of men's fashion at the Institut Français

Left: Sebastian Manes, Buying Director, Selfridges Right: Claudine Ripert-Landler, Director of the Institut Français

O

n the occasion of London Fashion

Manes was recently named by the

Week,

was

Business of Fashion as one of the 500

welcomed at the Ciné Lumière of the

leading figures in the fashion industry

Manes, the Institut Français for their

Institut Francais for an exclusive film

globally.

hospitality, and Loïc Prigent for the

the

Luxury

Club

screening of What Men Wear.

The

documentary

takes

Since an

in

taking

merchandise

over

at

buying

Selfridges

he

and has

streetwear and emerging labels.

The

Chamber

wishes

to

thank

exclusive screening.

depth view on men’s fashion, from the

overseen a multi-million dollar overhaul

The film

austere days of the Victorian era to the

to

accessories

Directed by Loïc Prigent, leading fashion

more outlandish displays in the current

departments,

spearheaded

expert and director of Signed Chanel and

fashion world.

innovation and a focus on millennial

British Style, the documentary offers an

consumers.

irreverent, amusing and precise guided

The screening was followed by a

its

footwear

and

and

has

tour of the men’s locker room through

Merchandise

initiated or helped with a number of

six chapters attempting to define what

Director of Selfridges, after which guests

large-scale projects following a £300

men’s style is today.

were welcomed to a cocktail reception.

million investment announced in 2014

discussion with guest speaker Sebastian Manes,

Buying

and

In attendance were Claudine Ripert-

According

to

BoF,

Manes

by the store’s owner, Selfridges Group.

His other filmic work has focused on designers such as Marc Jacobs, Alexander McQueen and Yves Saint

Landler, Director of the Institut Français

These include the launch of the

and Florence Gomez, the Managing

Shoe Galleries, billed in 2010 as the

Director of the French Chamber. The

world’s largest shoe department at

In What Men Wear, industry experts,

session was organised by the chair of

35,000 square feet; a new accessories

journalists, designers and also top-tier

the Luxury Club, Tom Meggle, who also

hall covering over 60,000 square feet;

celebrities such as Karl Lagerfeld, Paul

moderated the discussion with Mares.

a dedicated space for sneakers within

Smith and David Beckham share their

The Q&A format discussion covered

the newly renovated shoe floor; and the

vision of what men do (and should)

topics and trends in men’s fashion.

launch of the Designer Studio, home to

wear. I

Laurent, among others.

In What Men Wear, industry experts, journalists, designers and also top-tier celebrities such as Karl Lagerfeld, Paul Smith and David Beckham share their vision of what men do (and should) wear 64 - info - november / december 2018

FINANCE FORUM

Fintech: diverging financial solutions Fintech and the evolution of traditional banking systems was explored in the latest Finance Forum session

D

isruptive technologies pervade even the most longstanding of industries. In banking, gaps in the market have

found themselves open to exploitation by fast moving fintech companies, rising to compete in a short time frame.

Paul Griffiths, Academic Director of Graduate Programme Banking, Finance & Fintech at Ecole de Management de

Normandie, and Thomas Bull, Director FinTech Strategy at EY, offer explanations for this rise and look to what is in store for the future. The session was chaired by John Peachey, Managing Director - CFO Global Markets at HSBC Bank Plc.

A diverging era

than the push of Fintechs themselves. The peer to peer model has risen to the forefront, with crowdfunding as just one example.

Banks have strengthened relationships with

Paul Griffiths explained that digitalisation in the twentieth

valuable clients but let go unprofitable clients, such as GenY

century led to a new era, from roughly 2008, where new tech-

and millennials.

based financial providers sprouted. He provided examples for

Fintechs have recognised that millennials are now an

the root causes of this new activity:

estimated trillion dollar market, when taken as a group.

1. The financial crisis:

Millennials and GenY want digital services which offer ‘ease

The crisis proved a distraction to traditional banks. They

of use’ which can be ‘problematic for banks with their old

refocused activities to cut costs, by pruning clients and stopping

structures.’ Most importantly, the older generation are learning

unprofitable operations. This left gaps in the services and

to embrace the same solutions as the younger, diminishing the

products offered, and a readymade client base, both accessible

traditional banking market.

to fintech organisations.

‘After decades of having been a driver and leader for

2. Technology breakthroughs:

technological change, the industry left windows wide open for

Advances in technology made access to people easier (the cloud

nimble companies based on ground-breaking technologies to

and smart phones), with lower entry costs. Fintechs used this to

emerge and eat its lunch,’ says Griffiths.

find the niche in pre-existing markets, rather than creating a

‘It’s a really exciting time for this part of the market in

new market.

particular, and one where we see a lot of money going into

3. Social changes:

funding businesses, and a lot of really innovative stuff going on,’

Fintech growth is motivated by the pull of social forces rather

says Bull. I SL

EMERGING T R ENDS Thomas Bull highlights new developments in the fintech space 1. Regulations make building global platforms to compete directly with banks difficult. Partnerships will therefore increasingly be built between fintech companies and banks.

2. Products and services will be ‘unbundled’ to ensure a focus on doing one thing very well. For example, Funding Circle focuses on SME lending. It has recently floated on the stock market, 10 years after its founding.

3. Conversely,‘re-bundling’ will also take effect, as fintech companies become more established. They will offer more customer-focused solutions. This means more potential to disrupt the traditional banking model.

4. The realisation that the data banks hold belongs to the customer has encouraged open banking. With the customer’s permission, banks have to share this data with third parties, introducing more competition and innovation to the market.

5. Open integrated service platforms create one platform to satisfy all needs.

6. The digital Interface layer allows a simplified interaction with the end user, linking accounts and enabling switching.

info

- november / december 2018 - 65

FORTHCOMING FORUMS & CLUBS By application only

6

Nov 08.30 - 10.00

7

November 08.30 - 10.30

13

November 18.00 - 21.00

20

November 08.30 - 10.30

22

November 08.30 - 10.00

START-UP & SME CLUB Brexit update tailored to SMEs + Brainstorming Session for 2019 Guest speakers: Steen Rosenfalck, Senior Partner, ebl miller rosenfalck and Emmanuelle Ries, Managing Partner, ebl miller rosenfalck

RETAIL FORUM ‘What does Luxury mean + Brainstorming on the agenda 2019’ Venue: Yen Restaurant, 190 Strand, London WC2R 3DX Guest speaker: Tom Meggle, Founder & Director Momentom 8 Ltd

27

November 08.30 - 10.30

6

December 08.30 - 10.30

CLUB@THEODO Venue: 20 MIDTOWN, 20 Procter St, London WC1V 6NX Guest speaker: Fabrice Bernhard, Founder, Theodo

CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILIT Y FORUM ‘Transport: climate change and drilling on the use of hydrogen + Brainstorming session for 2019’ Guest speaker: Mike Muldoon, Head of Business Development & Marketing, Alstom UK & Ireland

HUMAN RESOURCES FORUM ‘Moving From Diversity to Inclusion’ Guest speakers: Jane Ayaduray, Head of Diversity and Inclusion UK, BNP Paribas and Pierre Gaubert, CEO & Co-Founder Mygwork

12

December 08.30 - 10.00

12

December 18.00 -21.00

BREXIT FORUM 'Impact on Digital' Guest speaker: Giles Derrington, Head of policy: Brexit, International and Economics, TechUK Sponsored by ESCP Europe Business School

DIGITAL TR ANSFORMATION & INNOVATION FORUM ‘Content Management: customers expectations & engagement’ Venue: Universal Music Group, 4 Pancras Square, Kings Cross, N1C 4PW Guest speakers: Ines Da Silva, Creative, Branding & Digital Consultant, IDS creative; Gareth Mugford, Head of Content UK, Dailymotion and Somi Arian, Founder, Smart Cookie Media Sponsored by ESCP Europe Business School

FINANCE FORUM ‘The Demystification of the Cloud (how it works, its advantages & complexities)’ Guest speaker: David Strong, Digital Practice Director - Cloud Transformation, Sopra Steria

CLIMATE CHANGE & SUSTAINABILIT Y FORUM ‘Food and Carbon Footprint: a cocktail event with Raymond Blanc’ Venue: Home House, 20 Portman Square, Marylebone, London W1H 6LW Guest speaker: Raymond Blanc, OBE Fees: £40.00+VAT per person; £70+VAT special price for 2 (event open to members only)

All sessions, excluding the Retail Forum, Luxury Club and the Women's Business Club, take place at the French Chamber. For more information, please contact: Ophélie Martinel at: omartinel@ccfgb.co.uk or 0207 092 6634

66 - info - november / december 2018

AT THE CHAMBE R - E VE NTS Food partner:

SEMINAR WITH FTPA – 24 SEPTEMBER

English Trust vs. French Fiducie Chamber members were welcomed back to the FTPA offices for the second in a series of seminars around diverse Franco-British legal topics

O

ver a breakfast kindly provided

Robin, a practising ‘fiduciaire,’ as a ‘baby’

person’s estate, a new concept to be

by Ladurée, Chamber members

in comparison to the longevity of the

introduced to French law. ‘There is a

networked before settling down to

English trust, which has existed since

conceptual difference for the fiducie

listen to expert speakers on the subject

medieval times.

whereby there is a singular dismantling

of ‘Trust c. fiducie: combat égal? A

The Fiducie is a ‘written transaction by

of property rights between the trustee

comparative and interactive bilingual

which one or more settlors (constituants)

and the beneficiary,’ says Rajeev Sharma

workshop on practical and operational

transfer(s) assets, rights or security,

Fokeer. The property is held by one

aspects of the English trust and French

either present or future, to one or

person, the fiduciaire, transferred from

fiducie.’

more fiduciaries (fiduciaires) who, while

another, the settlor for the benefit of

The speakers comprised of Bruno

maintaining those assets segregated

the beneficiary. The separation of assets

Boesch, partner, Froriep; Bruno Robin,

from their own estate, act for a specific

held in fiducie protects the beneficiary

partner, FTPA and licensed ‘fiduciaire;’

purpose for the benefit of one or more

from the bankruptcy of the settlor.

and

Romain

Lantourne,

associate,

beneficiaries (bénéficiaires).’ A fiducie can

A second fundamental difference

FTPA, with Rajeev Sharma Fokeer,

function as either a pure management

lies in the duration of the agreement.

partner and co-head of the London

or a security fiducie, or a hybrid of the

A trust has an indefinite duration and a

office of FTPA as moderator.

two.

‘deed of trust’ replaces the necessity of

Fidelity to Fiducie The French fiducie is described by Bruno

But how does the French fiducie differ from the traditional trust?

The fiducie can be used to divide a

a contract. The fiducie is a fixed term transaction which lapses with the death of the beneficiary.

A third key difference lies in the tax status of a trust, which is considered a separate taxable entity. The fiducie remains a tax neutral transaction.

Romain

Lantourne

notes

that

unlike a trust, a French fiducie cannot be implied and in practice, the French fiducie is mainly used in the context of restructuring/insolvency proceedings.

At this stage, there are 600 fiducies recorded, with 300 still ongoing. This will grow in the future. As Bruno Boesch says, ‘the days of the fiducie may be coming.’

On this note, Bruno Robin concludes, ‘the fiducie, which is already seen as the queen of securities, can yet draw from its elder sister, the trust, to achieve even wider application in a cross-border context.’

The Chamber would like to thank FTPA for sponsoring this second edition of a series of three seminars. I

Top: The session was held in FTPA's City offices Bottom: Speakers and attendees with Eniga de Montfort, Partner, FTPA (far left) info

- november / december 2018 - 67

SUPPORTED BY

The first edition of our new networking event LeBridge took place on 19 October to facilitate conversations between corporates and start-ups

A

t a Chamber event in September 2017, a start-up asked the corporate speaker how a conversation with a relevant corporate decision maker could be initiated.

Fast forward to October 2018 where a fully fledged, all day event offered a solution.

LeBridge was conceived to connect large corporates with relevant start-ups. The day’s mixed schedule of B2B meetings, workshops and presentations meant this was more than just a networking event.

The day opened with educational presentations by Kevin Monserrat, VC Relations & Dealflow Manager at Microsoft for Startups, Antoine Baschiera, CEO of EarlyMetrics, and Sadiq Damani, Agile Coach & Project Director at Theodo.

They imparted words of wisdom to all present about what start-ups and corporates need to grow, how to make collaborations work, and how to launch a digital project.

Then straight into the tailor made B2B meetings between

Digital Project towards Success’. Sadiq Damani, Agile Coach &

big and small companies. Far from random pairings, all start-

Project Director, Theodo, outlined four components: create

ups were meticulously researched and invited along, to match

clear and measurable success criteria; define hypotheses

the requirements of the corporates present. This structure

which will confirm or deny your value proposition; prioritise

created a platform for meaningful conversations and a

features to be developed based on risk and value driven to

dedicated slot in which start-ups could pitch and discuss.

final users; and define a minimum viable product (MVP).

Structured sessions are all well and good but casual

The third discussed ‘Legal Issues in Start-up Corporate

networking can often give rise to unexpected connections.

Collaborations’. Jonathan Snade, Partner at Browne

Any gaps in the participants’ busy meeting schedules allowed

Jacobson, examined the benefits of start-up / corporate

space for organic conversations to develop.

collaborations, how to prepare for collaborations, and the

Workshops To kick start the afternoon session, Alexandre Covello of AngelsCube have a presentation on ten tips for start-

different structures involved (e.g. Supplier/Customer, joint venture or R&D partnerships).

The final workshop of the day centred on the question of ‘How Fast can your Company Afford to Grow?’ Jean-Philippe

up collaboration. Running parallel to the meetings, four

Verdier, Founding Partner of Verdier & Co. Corporate

workshops took place throughout the day.

Advisory, gave ten cast iron ways to kill a growing business, as

Antoine Baschiera, CEO of EarlyMetrics, first led a session on the topic of ‘Business culture clash and how not to kill

well as covering the external and internal barriers to growth.

a start-up’. He covered why the two groups need to work

A collaborative approach

together, how they can collaborate, and what makes a

Refreshments were on hand to accompany the day’s

successful collaboration.

activities. Ladurée kindly provided the pastries and macarons

The second workshop focused on ‘How to Launch your

68 - info - november / december 2018

for breakfast, and the coffee break. Rome de Bellegarde

As a law firm, we advise businesses ranging from large, international corporations across a range of sectors to exciting, early stage companies with innovative technologies and disruptive business models and so we understand the commercial benefits for both start-ups and incumbents that can be achieved through partnerships and collaboration. Therefore we applaud the French Chamber of Great Britain on launching this important initiative. – Jon Snade, Partner, Browne Jacobson

LEBRIDGE IN NUMBERS Participants: 110 Corporates: 12 Start-ups: 40 Number of meetings: +180 Number of workshop registrations: +50 Social media mentions of #lebridge18: 102 Comments/Likes/Shares: +1,160 Number of media follow ups: 2 (French Morning London and L’Echo magazine)

provided the wine for an evening networking session, well deserved after a long day of intense interactions.

A collaborative event requires a collaborative approach, and LeBridge would not have been possible without the support of the co-organising partners, Angelscube, Early Metrics, and French Tech London, and Microsoft for Startups for providing the Microsoft Reactor as the venue.

The Chamber would also like to warmly thank the sponsors of the day, Browne Jacobson, Theodo, and Verdier & Co. Corporate Advisory.

Finally, we would like to thank Creaman, for the design of the LeBridge brand, and French Morning London as media partners to the event. I Left: Alexandre Covello, CEO of AngelsCube Above: The meeting space at Microsoft Reactor Right: Microsoft's Kevin Monserrat giving an interview to media partner French Morning London

SPONSORED BY

CO-ORGANISING PARTNERS

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E VE NT S – AT THE CHAMBE R

BREAKFAST AT CHRISTIE’S – 18 SEPTEMBER

DINER DES CHEFS – 22 OCTOBER

Down to a fine art

Chauffeurs and chefs

C

orporate and Patron members of the Chamber got their cultural fix of the week at a breakfast event hosted at esteemed auction house, Christie’s.

With a reputation as the leader in the international market for the Post-War and Contemporary Art sector, the morning reflected this expertise. Guests were treated to an exclusive private tour amongst the outstanding selection of works by established and emerging Post-War and Contemporary artists of Christie’s latest exhibition, for the First Open.

Led by Anna Touzin, Specialist, Post-War & Contemporary Art, and Isabel Millar, Cataloguer, Post-War and Contemporary Art Evening Auction, they both spoke about the history of Christie’s as well as explaining the various lots on display.

Highlights included works by Tony Cragg, Peter Halley, Louise Bourgeois and Gerhard Richter as well as Post-War Japanese masters, Kazuo Shiraga and Yayoi Kusama. I

EVENING WITH MARCUS WAREING – 11 SEPTEMBER

Cocktails à la Marcus Wareing

G

eorge’s Bar at the revamped Gilbert Scott restaurant at King’s Cross welcomed Patron members for the first

networking event of the second semester. For thirty five guests, the grand 19th century surroundings gave a sense of occasion to the evening, appropriate for an event attended by a world renowned two Michelin starred chef.

Peter Alfandary, Senior Vice President of the Chamber, introduced Marcus Wareing, who then spoke about his impressive journey to being a highly respected chef and BBC Masterchef the Professionals judge, amongst many other impressive accolades and awards.

The French Chamber would like to thank Marcus Wareing and the George’s Bar team for their warm welcome. I

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M

embers were once again treated to an evening trip to Oxford for the 9th edition of the Dîner des Chefs to take place at Belmond Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons.

Participants were greeted by Raymond Blanc himself and a Laurent Perrier champagne reception, with caviar to whet the appetite, kindly provided by Petrossian.

Then dinner was served and the quality of the 5 courses speaks for itself: Risotto of alba truffle and wild mushrooms; Ravioli of Cornish Lobster, seaweed, Petrossian Oscietra Caviar; Roast loin of venison, celeriac, chicory & celery, toasted hazelnuts; Autumn Still Life, a dessert based on a coffee, chestnut parfait; and coffee, tea & petits fours. Each course was accompanied by complementary Crus Classes de Graves wines.

Once everyone had eaten their fill, the evening ended with a theatrical flourish. The chefs trooped out of the kitchen to introduce themselves and to receive the compliments and applause of the diners.

Groupe Renault kindly provided the transport to and from the venue, dropping guests off outside their front door.

The Chamber would like to thank Raymond Blanc, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, and Groupe Renault for this memorable evening. I

AT THE CHAMBE R - E VE NTS

COCKTAIL DE LA RENTRÉE - 12 SEPTEMBER

INTERNATIONAL TASTING: WINE, SPIRITS & BEER -

Vive la Rentrée

25 SEPTEMBER

Drink’s up!

C

I

RENDEZ-VOUS CHEZ... L’ATELIER DES CHEFS -

with a bottle of prosecco, to celebrate a job well done.

Thanks to L’Atelier des Chefs for hosting this fun-filled evening. I

hamber members kicked off the second semester in style, from the terrace of the 15th floor of the Browne Jacobson office building. Seventy participants networked in the light of the setting sun over drinks and canapés.

With the London skyline as a backdrop, Stephen Burgin, Deputy President of the French Chamber, introduced Caroline Green, Partner at Browne Jacobson, as she welcomed those present. She commented on the history of the French group, launched in 1994 at Browne Jacobson, as well as the areas of expertise of the desk, covering English Business Law at large.

The Chamber would like to thank Browne Jacobson LLP for kindly hosting this event. I

3 OCTOBER

Street food cook-off

t was the biggest joint tasting event yet for the British Foreign Chambers of Commerce. Gathering nearly 450 participants at Chelsea Football Club’s iconic Stamford Bridge stadium, members from 16 different Chambers treated their taste buds to a trip around the world.

From Mexican tequila and Norwegian gin to Japanese sake and, of course, fine French wine, many national favourites were present. With liquid courage to wet the whistle, participants networked and broadened professional circles in a relaxed atmosphere.

The main attraction of the night: a bottle of Cognac at the French Chamber’s stand. Word passed swiftly amongst guests that a single shot was once sold for £10,000. The cognac was unsurprisingly unavailable to taste but the Château Bélingard white wine kindly provided by partners, Alphashire, was a more than worthy substitute for those wishing to sample a classically French tipple.

The French Chamber would like to thank Alphashire for providing Le Plaisir de Château Bélingard 2016 white wine on the evening; Chelsea F.C. for hosting the event; and our fellow Chambers for yet another successful collaboration. I

I

t is not normal practice for Chamber members to cook their own meals at our events. However, at the Rendez-Vous Chez L’Atelier des Chefs an exception was made and participants experienced their cooking classes first-hand.

Fifty participants split into 6 teams and went head to head in a street food cook-off. They were each allocated a box of delicious and seasonal ingredients, a professional chef, and creative freedom to devise a selection of dishes. Donning aprons, everyone got stuck in and conversation flowed around the counter tops.

The winning team won gifts of spices and cooking oils. A prize draw gave the lucky winner a second chance to win the culinary crown with a voucher for a 4h class. And everyone left Print partner : Paragon Service Point

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FORTHCOMING EVENTS

20

November 18.00 - 21.00

SEMINAR WITH ECONOCOM  JTRS At Microsoft London Paddington, 2 Kingdom Street, London W2 6BD Free of charge Guest speakers: Chris Labrey, Managing Director UK & Ireland, Econocom David Gregory, Head of Innovation, JTRS | Econocom Joe Varrasso, HoloLens Partner Lead – Europe – Mixed Reality Commercial Business EMEA, HoloLens Theme: Digital transformation in the business world: Econocom and JTRS will present Hololens ‘Mixed Reality as-a-Service’ (MraaS), an innovative project that makes mixed reality and 3D technologies accessible to companies.

For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at: whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

26

November

FRANCO-BRITISH BUSINESS AWARDS At the Langham, 1C Portland Pl, Marylebone, London W1B 1JA £110+VAT for members ; £160+VAT for non members ; £1,100+VAT for a table of 12.

19.00 - 22.30

FBBA 2018 THE FRANCO-BRITISH BUSINESS AWARDS Monday 26 November 2018 19.00 to 22.30 At the Langham Hotel, W1J 8LT

In the presence of the French Ambassador to the UK and the British Ambassador to France.

The Franco-British Business Awards acknowledge the accomplishments of French and British companies of all sizes, from start-ups to SMEs and blue-chip companies on both sides of the Channel.

For applications and general enquiries, conact Wassime Haouari at: whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642 Main sponsor

30

November

Supporting sponsors

Wine partners

BEHIND THE HEADLINES At the French Institute, 17 Queensbery Place, London SW7 2DT £25+VAT per person; £40+VAT Special price for two

In partnership with:

8.00 - 10.00

Theme: Emmanuel Macron and Theresa May: a quest to reinvent 2 nations Guest speakers: Sophie Pedder, The Economist’s Paris Bureau Chief Florentin Collomp, UK Correpondent for Le Figaro Moderator: Philippe Chalon, Director of External Affairs - International SOS; Managing Director - Cercle d'Outre Manche For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

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3

December

CROSS-CULTURAL EVENING DEBATE At the French Residence, 11 Kensington Palace Gardens, London W8 4QP £40+VAT per person ; £70+VAT special price for two

18.30 - 21.30

Guest Speakers: Fabienne Viala, Chairman, Bouygues UK and Hugo Fry, General Manager, Sanofi UK Moderator: Peter Alfandary, Senior Vice President of the French Chamber of Great Britain For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at: whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

5

December

CELEBRATE THE 135TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FRENCH CHAMBER At Bateaux London, Victoria Embankment, London WC2N 6NU £50+VAT / £80+VAT special price for two

Sponsored by:

18.30 - 21.30

Join us for some night-time festivities hosted by Bateaux London as the French Chamber celebrates the milestone of 135 years working with Franco-British businesses.

The cocktail reception will include spectacular views, entertainment, fantastic partners and other surprises!

For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at: whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

10

December 12.00 - 14.30

ANNUAL FINANCIAL LUNCH At the Langham Hotel £120+VAT per person; £1,000+VAT for a table of 10; £1,100+VAT for a table for 12 In the presence of HE Mr Jean-Pierre Jouyet, French Ambassador to the UK.

Partner:

Sponsored by:

Wine partners

Theme: The power of diversity in the new world of financial services Guest Speaker: Charlotte Crosswell, CEO of Innovate Finance For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at: whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

12

December

FOOD AND CARBON FOODPRINT: A COCKTAIL RECEPTION WITH RAYMOND BLANC At Home House, 20 Portman Square, London W1H 6LW £40+VAT per person, £70+VAT special price for 2

18.00 - 21.00

Guest Speaker: Raymond Blanc OBE, Chef Patron and Chairman, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons.

Raymond Blanc will team up with all of you to talk about a subject close to his heart: Food and Carbon Footprint! Come and rub shoulders with the colourful and passionate grand chef at this evening cocktail reception and enjoy delicious canapés provided by Home House.

For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at: whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

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