Leicester Business Festival Supplement 2016 by Champions (UK) plc

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

@Leicester_Merc

#LBF2016

‘Festival aims to drive investment and stimulate economic growth’

elcome to the 2016 Leicester Business Festival (LBF) – the region’s largest business event, sponsored by Leicester Castle Busi-

ness School. This year’s programme boasts some spectacular, highly topical and nationally important events which span right across the region and its sectors. From autonomous vehicle testing, to speed networking, and from political and economic announcements to improving your firm’s productivity through Lego and yoga – LBF16 has something for everyone. For almost a decade, the quality, diversity and innovation of Leicester and Leicestershire has continued to impress, grow and surpass the market’s expectations. Our business community and economy, the fastest-growing in the UK, never cease to amaze. Having said that, it has been a business community which until recently has been so diverse that it has been largely segregated and non-committal to anything other than personal business objectives. The Leicester Business Festival was born with the intention of changing this to achieve more, and do it faster, by working in collaboration. The LBF provides a platform for the business community to collaborate, unite and partner for greater and wider economic growth. Commencing for the first time in 2015, instigated by the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership, the vision for the festival remains as a true constant. It aims to drive inward investment and stimulate economic growth, by placing Leicester and Leicestershire front and centre of the UK’s business agenda. It does this by providing a fortnight of opportunity, events and time for topical discussion, enabling the region to come together once a year to interact, engage, promote, support, learn and discuss business under one branded banner – Leicester Business Festival. With the ambition to be ‘by business, for business’, the inaugural festival succeeded at putting a marker in the region’s business calendar. In its first year alone it managed to centre the region’s business topics under one nationally focused and internationally placed brand with exceptional results – 80 seminars, lectures, workshops and conferences all taking place within two weeks, attracting more than 7,500 visitors from across the

Leicester Business Festival board lead Alister de Ternant reports on another year at the centre of the UK’s business agenda UK. In 2016, the festival’s landscape has expanded exponentially, with the level of interest and engagement being pleasantly unexpected. With more than 320 expressions of interest and 117 events currently confirmed, more than 12,500 people are expected to attend what is now dubbed as ‘the region’s largest business event’. The pace of growth, media interest and associated investment is exceptional, and we are delighted that a number of nationally recognised organisations have moved their events, support and sponsorship focus to Leicestershire and under the ‘LBF banner’. Not only this, but LBF is also attracting heavy interest from Government institutions and major corporates, along with forward-thinking business men and women

who are using the festival as their launch pad for engagement and advancement within the area. In response to crucial feedback, this year’s programme is segmented into nine key sectors, all of which have been identified by the LLEP for holding the highest level of economic ‘opportunity’ for growth in the region. Each of these sectors has been headed by a leading industry professional who has assisted and provided professional advice to the LBF organisers, cultivated their industry and linked the festival to their industry contact base. This segmentation is a bold move, but it has paid dividends in placing the festival and engaging these critical sectors. It has created a rich programme and

tapestry of events, which come from across the spectrum of these sectors in equal measure, with businesses truly recognizing the benefit of engagement with the festival. Inward interest in the region’s businesses could never be stronger. In just one year, the reach of the festival has more than quadrupled. With an estimated reach of around 9.7 million individuals and 322,000 on associated contactable databases, the ‘brand’ of the festival is an unparalleled opportunity for the region. The stringency of the application process has been overhauled in 2016, and as result the quality of events has strengthened. The intention for the programme to be formed around an ethos of ‘quality over quantity’ should become very apparent as attendees go from event to event. We are delighted that around a third of events are being hosted in the wider districts, truly demonstrating the breadth and importance of the collaboration between our city and county, both playing equally critical roles in the positive promotion and economic success of our county. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our headline sponsors, Leicester Castle Business School, along with LLEP Business Gateway, Champions (UK) plc, Highcross Leicester, Lestercast, Federation of Small Businesses, East Midlands Chamber, Aon, Qdos, Smooth Radio and, of course, the Leicester Mercury for their continued and valued support. The festival would not have been possible without the commitment and valued contribution of the Leicester Business Festival board – Corin Crane, Sally Kowal, David Simms, Matthew Hayes, Ashleigh Kerr, Roxanna Hayes, Jennifer Thomas, Diane Simpson and Fiona Breen, along with our sector leads, Mike Dalzell, Peter Chandler, Dr Rick Greenough, Scott Charlish, Stuart Garner, Jiva Odedra, Altaf Ahmed, Sue Tilley, John Byrne and Jack Kelly. As a local professional and resident, it has been a joy to be part of a business community that has grown and prospered so significantly – not just financially but culturally too. We should all be proud of that accomplishment and shout about our collective success through channels such as the Leicester Business Festival. I urge you and your fellow colleagues to take part and ensure your business and our region are front and centre of the UK’s business agenda, for our region’s prosperity. We hope you enjoy the region’s largest business event.

SPONSORED BY

/LBFestival

Qdos

/LBFest

@LBFestival

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

#LBF2016

Festival is a great reflection of the industry and activity going on here Leicester Mercury Business Editor Tom Pegden reports on how excitement is building in the run-up to the second Leicester Business Festival

s I write this, the full list of events being held at this year’s Leicester Business Festival has dropped on my desk. And what a list it is. Some 117 seminars, conferences, workshops and open days packed into two weeks taking place at factories, labs, offices, universities, theatres and all manner of other organisations up and down the county. There is, it is safe to say, something for everyone. The Leicester Mercury is proud to be a media partner for the fortnight because we feel the festival is such a great reflection of the industry and activity going on here. The business team has always taken great pleasure in writing about the businesses that are doing well out there – contributing to the economy, the local jobs market and the buzz and identity of the city and county. When the first business festival was held last year, the economy was only tentatively getting back on a even footing following the long dark years of the credit crunch. At times during those years it had been hard to even consider that the local economy would one day be back fighting its corner, creating revenue, employment and wealth. But as we prepare for the second festival, that is exactly where we stand. Many of the local businesses taking part in the two weeks of activities have never felt fitter. Norton Motorbikes at Castle Donington, for instance, had to work hard through the recession, but is now planning more bikes, taking on staff, investing in training and opening a new production facility. As part of the festival, it is opening its doors on November 3 to showcase its work. Likewise the world-leading Horiba MIRA research base, near Hinckley, is also joining in. The business, based on an ex-air base, has around 600 employees. If you include MIRA Technology Park – the enterprise zone which is home to operations for the likes of Aston Martin, Jaguar Land Rover and Bosch – the number is closer to 1,000.

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE: George Gillespie, chief executive of MIRA Technology Park, near Hinckley. The enterprise zone is home to operations for the likes of Aston Martin and Jaguar Land Rover Technology being developed there is at the forefront of the work being done to create driverless vehicles – and will be demonstrated on the afternoon of October 24. One of the things this year’s festival is particularly proud of is the number of national events – big and small – that have been signed up. The first Make it British Forum, held in association with the UK Fashion and Textile Association, takes place on October 26 at De Montfort University. The one-day conference will provide designers and business owners with the knowledge and tools required to successfully develop a ‘Made in Britain’ brand. This is big news, not just for the UK’s textiles sector, but for the many thriving textiles businesses in Leicestershire which are work-

ing hard to win back orders from overseas suppliers. Likewise, the Department for International Trade will be highlighting opportunities to do business in the opposite direction. It is working with the Federation of Small Businesses on a free, interactive and thought-provoking seminar that could help local companies exploit overseas opportunities. That takes place at East Midlands Business, in Meridian Business Park, on the morning of October 26. The FSB has also joined up with Google Digital Garage to bring free digital skills training for local businesses at the Big Shed

meeting rooms in Freemans Common on November 4. Cracking Google can mean make or break for a company, so the support given could, literally, be life-changing. October 26 will also see a “certified Lego serious play facilitator” take a serious look at helping business people solve complex issues by building models and metaphors using Lego bricks. It sounds like fun, but there are proven principals behind the process. It takes place at the Dock office units in Leicester’s Pioneer Park, so should also be a chance to get a feel for some of the excellent start-ups based there. These are just a taste of the many and varied events taking place through the fortnight. And right through the festival build-up, as well as during and after, the Leicester Mercury will be reporting on what is fast becoming one of the foremost business events in Britain.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

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LEICESTER MERCURY

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

#LBF2016

Food and Drink Manufacturing Sector – Day 2, Tuesday, October 25

Food science and development of products puts region ahead of field

ollowing the EU vote, the food and drink sector in Leicestershire continues to maintain steady growth, despite mixed performances in other sectors. Key businesses such as Samworth Brothers are continuing to invest and diversify operations and product ranges. Food and drink exporters are seeing benefits from the fall in sterling, while low interest rates are helping fuel some of the investments in the area. However, overall business optimism and investment plans in the sector have still been impacted in the wake of Brexit. Additional challenges to sector businesses include the shortage of skilled staff at all levels – management, technical, manufacturing and operatives – along with a shortage of premises appropriate for food production. Leicestershire is recognised as one of the most innovative, diverse and creative hubs for the sector. Key companies based here include Mars, PepsiCo (Walkers crisps), Samworth Brothers, Pukka Pies, Délifrance, Jacobs Bakery, Everards, Premier Foods, Sunrise Eggs, Pedigree, Cott, Glisten, Arla Foods, and AB Produce. Food and drink is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK, while locally more than 200 companies contribute £600 million to the region’s economy. Leicester and Leicestershire is undoubtedly a headline player in this field. The number of full-time staff working in food and drink production in the area rose by more than 10 per cent between 2009 and 2013, with the number of people higher than the UK average – Melton, for example, employs 10 times the national average. The Beaumont Leys Walkers factory, for instance, is the biggest of its kind in the world, making more than seven million crisp packets a day, while Melton pork pies and Stilton cheese are among the world’s most famous products. What keeps the region ahead of others is its strong emphasis on food science and product development and it is no wonder the festival is showcasing the sector in 2016. The purpose-built Leicester Food Park supports start-up food companies and expanding businesses, while the Melton Food Enterprise Zone is a specialist food production area funded by the Government to develop technology and push the sector forward. The festival food and drink sector day is October 25 and will include a food and drink business growth exposition at Brooksby Melton College, co-organised by the college, the LLEP, Leicestershire County Council and Melton Borough Council. Taking place from 4pm to 7pm, it will provide attendees with the op-

CRUNCH TIME: Walkers’ huge crisps factory at Beaumont Leys and, above, its limited edition salt and victory crisps to celebrate Leicester City’s Premier League triumph. Inset, sector lead Jiva Odedra, below, Melton Mowbray pork pies portunity to meet business leaders and industry experts and pick up valuable advice. Another event – from 8.30am to 11am on November 1 – will be a free Food and Drink Forum breakfast at Leicester Food Park, looking at making the most of digital technology. Festival lead for the sector is Jiva Odedra, who works as a business investment manager, leading on food and drink, within Leicester City Council. He helps both start-ups and existing businesses with things such as grant funding, improving human resources, developing new products and targeting new markets. He also project manages Leicester Food Park. Mr Odedra said the festival will help key stakeholders establish stronger links, share strengths and learn from each other to overcome weaknesses and identify new business growth opportunities. He said: “Leicester Business Festival is vitally important for Leicestershire businesses since it promotes sector uniqueness in terms of heritage brands, ethnic products, innovative operations and new target markets.”

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

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LEICESTER MERCURY

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016 LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

#LBF2016

Textiles Manufacturing Sector – Day 3, Wednesday, October 26

Clothing manufacturers contribute £500m to the economy and provide about 10,000 local jobs

he textile industry in Leicestershire is not just alive but kicking strongly. Independent research from the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership shows that it contributes £500 million to the area’s economy and provides around 10,000 local jobs. While it’s still widely known for its strength in depth in knitwear, crocheted fabrics, apparel and hosiery, they only account for about 40 per cent of active firms. New materials, dyes, techniques and applications are being developed all the time, which open up opportunities for the industry in food, medical, safety, automotive and even space. The realisation that manufacturing closer to home can have benefits, both in terms of brand position, ethical trading and cost, has been another trend driving growth. Fast and online fashion has been a game changer and the UK Fashion & Textile Association estimates 20,000 new jobs will be needed in textile and clothing manufacturing to keep up with growing demand. Leicestershire has the HQs of major fashion retailers such as Next, Joules, George and Dunelm, so developing local supply chains is important. To achieve this, investment needs to be underpinned by ethical trading business models and promotion of business existence, as well as new technologies and better factories. The LLEP, Leicester City Council and the county’s three universities can all play a part in that, as can the retailers and suppliers themselves. The 2016 festival’s textile sector leads are Sue Tilley, economic strategy manager at the LLEP, and Altaf Ahmed, business in-

vestment manager at Leicester City Council. Mr Ahmed said: “There is a huge amount to do in terms of overcoming the identified challenges – however this requires strong commitment from our manufacturers and the partners. “The first joint project is currently being explored that involves creation of a textiles physical hub/training academy, while other initiatives include dedicated business support for textile businesses and formation of a manufacturers association.” The festival will provide a platform for the textile sector to promote the existence of the local supply chain to a wider audience at local, national and international level. Highlight of the sector day on October 26 will be a Make it British Forum, at De Montfort University, held in association with the UK Fashion and Textile Association. The one-day conference will provide designers and business owners with the knowledge and tools required to successfully develop a ‘Made in Britain’ brand. Kate Hills, founder and chief executive of Make it British, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the conference as part of the Leicester Business Festival in a region of the country traditionally known for textile manufacturing, and to have the opportunity to be the first public event to be held in the new art and design faculty at De Montfort University is amazing.” Other sector events include a Breakthrough Breakfast event called ‘Selling Textiles to the UAE’, organised by Santander on October 27, at its Carlton Park offices. It will include a live link to the UAE and delegates will hear about the opportunities that exist for local textile companies to enter the Emirates’ retail and textile supply chains. Ms Tilley said: “We are seeing a huge resurgence of the textile sector in Leicester. “The festival comes at a perfect time and will provide an excellent platform for the businesses, buyers, suppliers, universities and colleges to come together to celebrate and to raise awareness of all that is great about our businesses and show the breadth of what the textile sector in Leicester has to offer.”

IN FASHION: A model in a colourful Joules tunic and, below, sector leads Altaf Ahmed and Sue Tilley

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

@Leicester_Merc

LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

#LB F2016

Professional and Financial Services Sector – Day 4, Thursday, October 27

Expansion for firms back on agenda

TOP NAMES: Above, Brewin Dolphin staff doing voluntary work. Below, Spearing Waite’s partners Tom Bower, left, and Jonathan Wheeler. Bottom, insurance specialist Hastings Direct celebrating its first birthday in Leicester

eicester is fortunate to host a large number of professional service firms – from longstanding names such as Brewin Dolphin, PwC, KPMG and Freeths to more recent names such as Hastings Direct and Shakespeare Martineau. That diversity allows for specialisms to be offered and for competition to remain healthy. Expansion is back on the agenda in certain fields as opportunities present themselves. Brexit uncertainty will play out in many varied ways in the coming months and years with firms developing their offerings to accommodate new lines of enquiry. City and county businesses can tap into that expertise and the Leicester Business Festival will assist in highlighting the talent in our region. The sector day during the festival will be October 27, although professional firms will be hosting events throughout the two weeks. The lead event that day will look at legacy planning – the best way to transfer a business to new owners or the next generation. The event, from 10.30am to 12.30pm, will be held at Brewin Dolphin’s office in Colton Square, Leicester, and offer an in-

sight into some of the best practices used in successful transfers. Employment issues will also be picked up in two specific festival events. On the morning of October 25, accountancy firm Newby Castleman will host an auto-enrolment seminar at its Regent Road offices in Leicester, looking at the new rules. And on October 31, Brewin Dolphin and KPMG will look at the “pensions nightmare” financial directors face if they have historic final salary schemes. It takes place in Brewin Dolphin’s offices in Colton Square on the morning of October 31. The festival’s professional services lead for the sector is Scott Charlish, left, divisional director for East Midlands Financial Planning, at Brewin Dolphin He said: “I am delighted to be associated with the Leicester Business Festival 2016. Recent events have made Leicester and Leicestershire a truly exciting place to do business. “I firmly believe the financial and professional services community are very well placed to play our part in the further development of the area which in my view has become one of the most exciting places to conduct business in the UK”

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

#LBF2016

Tourism and Hospitality Sector – Day 5, Friday, October 28

Visitors help keep industry vibrant POPULAR ATTRACTION: Diwali celebrations in Leicester. Below, sector lead Mike Dalzell and, bottom, Alister de Ternant

he Government’s new Tourism Action Plan outlined proposals for the continued success of an industry which last year generated £22.1 billion in spending from inbound tourism and £19.6 billion from domestic tourism – both record results. Generating £1.6 billion a year, employing over 20,000 people and supporting hundreds of businesses, Leicestershire’s tourism sector is vibrant and vital, growing at more than 23 per cent over the last five years. The emphasis now needs to be on developing and supporting existing businesses to grow rather than stimulating huge numbers of new start-ups. However, it is important to be receptive to potential inward investments, especially a much needed expansion of the serviced

accommodation offer in the city and to look for diversification opportunities in rural areas. Skills gaps and staff retention will be exacerbated by increased opportunities in other sectors that may offer more tempting shift patterns and remuneration. Mike Dalzell, director for tourism, culture and investment at Leicester City Council is sector lead for the festival. He said: “Keeping the importance of the sector high on the agenda and ensuring it is given the respect it deserves within the local economic mix are essential. “The Business Festival is an important vehicle for achieving this as well as providing a great forum for practitioners old and new to come together, learn how to make the most of the opportunities presented and plan for the future.” He said the headline sector event on the morning of October 28 looks at the broad issue of Place Marketing. Taking place at the Mercure Grand Hotel, Leicester, it will look at current thinking on how to ‘sell’ places successfully. Bringing together two highly respected academics and practitioners, it is likely to be both controversial and thought-provoking. Mr Dalzell has a background in economic regeneration and business development at the city council including the development of new workspaces for creative businesses. He is now using his experience in regeneration and job creation, in addition to place marketing, to ensure tourism in the region reaches its full potential. He said: “LBF16 is a great vehicle for practitioners old and new to come together, learn how to make the most of the opportunities presented and plan for the future.”

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

Monday 24th

SPONSORED BY

Ofﬁcial Opening Breakfast

7.30am – 10.00am City Centre - Leicester

Employers Breakfast Event: Levy Payers

7.30am - 9.30am

KEY BOROUGH CITY CENTRE LEICESTER

A A

BLABY

B B

CHARNWOOD

C C

HINCKLEY & BOSWORTH

D D

MELTON BOROUGH

E E

OADBY & WIGSTON

Food & Drink Manufacturing Creative Industries

The Innovation Centre - a gateway to De Montfort University Research, Business and Innovation

City Centre - Leicester

9.00am - 1.00pm

User Research - Getting into the minds of your customers

10.00am - 12.30am

10.00am - 11.00am

Charnwood

How street art is good for business

5.30pm - 7.00pm

8.00am - 10.00am

Leicester Business Expo

Distribution & Logistics

9.30am - 4.30pm

Thursday 27th

City Centre - Leicester

Business Growth Forum

City Centre - Leicester

How Brand and Web design can boost your proﬁts.

Leicester Festivals - Great for Leicester - Great for You!

City Centre - Leicester

Is your company accessible to staff and clients?

10.00am - 1.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

Grow your business with an apprenticeship and trainee

City Centre - Leicester

TEDx Leicester - Every Jouney Matters

City Centre - Leicester

Employment Law & Health and Safety

City Centre - Leicester

Local Business Supply Chain Initiative

4.00pm - 6.00pm

10.30am - 4.30pm

Innovation for business growth - Multiple Workshops Available 9.30am - 4.00pm

9.30am - 5.30pm

Blaby

Hinckley & Bosworth

LBF Curry n Quiz Night hosted by TheBestOfLeicester

Oadby & Wigston

G Business Gateway Live Business Support Zone at LBE16

BID LEICESTER

8.30am - 6.00pm

PR Surgery: Meet the PR Professionals

City Centre - Leicester

6.00pm - 9.00pm

10.00am - 6.00pm

Melton borough

10.00am - 12.00pm

Business Hacks: Time and Money Saving Solutions for your Business

City Centre - Leicester

Importance of Training in Health and Social Care Settings

City Centre - Leicester

Food & Drink Business Expo

9.30am - 12.00pm

Surviving the Music Industry: Sam Bailey

City Centre - Leicester

5.30pm - 7.30pm

10.00am - 1.00pm

Exporting: Is it for you?

Serious Play! Innovation and Solving Business Problems with Lego

City Centre - Leicester

Charnwood

Thoughtful Leadership LOROS

4.00pm - 7.00pm

Make it British Forum

City Centre - Leicester

LATi 2016 Showcase: From Earth to Space and Beyond

2.30pm - 7.00pm

10.00am - 1.00pm

8.30am - 10.30am

10.00am - 4.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

How to sell or pass on your business

10.30am - 12.30pm

City Centre - Leicester

9.30am - 4.00pm

9.00am - 4.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships: Bringing together the best of Higher Education and Business 2.00pm - 3.45pm

City Centre - Leicester

S.P.A.C.E

City Centre - Leicester

Enterprising North West Leicestershire Celebration Event 5.30pm - 7.30pm

North West Leicestershire

How to connect to a 1.2 million UK Indian Market place? 6.30pm City Centre - Leicester

Ethical Red Tape nonsensical bureaucracy or opportunity to proﬁt from sustainability? 7.30am - 9.30am Charnwood

Friday 28th

Santander Breakthrough Breakfast - Selling Textiles to the UAE

Blaby

City Centre - Leicester

6.00pm - 9.00pm

8.15am - 12.00pm

Charnwood

City Centre - Leicester

Newby Castleman Auto Enrolment Seminar

10.00am - 1.00pm

Yoga and Mindfulness Class

5.00pm - 6.30pm City Centre - Leicester

Outdated technology holding you back? How business communications have changed in the past 30 years

Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing

City Centre - Leicester

2.00pm - 4.00pm

9.00am - 5.00pm

Blaby

Business Resilience - Are you prepared to save your business?

1.00pm - 3.00pm

Raising Performance In Operations

Hinckley & Bosworth

9.00am - 11.30am

12.00pm - 2.00pm

10.00am - 12.00pm Hinckley & Bosworth

Women into Business

Low Carbon

Other

How to Secure Public Sector Contracts

City Centre - Leicester

Connected Autonomous Vehicles and Intelligent Mobility 12.00pm - 3.30pm

Blaby

8.30am - 11.00am

Textiles Manufacturing

Sport & Health

Looking to the Future - What will customers expect of visitor experiences in the future?

City Centre - Leicester

Tourism & Hospitality

Professional & Financial Services

Making social media work for your business

8.00am - 11.00am

Labelling and Branding

Wednesday 26th

NORTH WEST LEICESTERSHIRE

Tuesday 25th

Oadby & Wigston

Facebook.com/leicestermercury

10.00am - 1.00pm

LEICESTER MERCURY

Like us on Facebook

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

8.00am - 2.00pm

Coalville Jobs Fair 2016

10.00am - 2.00pm North West Leicestershire

Is your Business Scalable: is it ready for growth ambitions?

City Centre - Leicester

9.00am - 3.00pm

Yoga and Mindfulness Class

3.30pm - 5.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

A Better way to Grow your Services Business - by using Growth Hacking Techniques

Gateway to India

City Centre - Leicester

9.30am - 12.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

Serious Play! Innovation and Solving Business Problems with Lego

10.00am - 12.30pm

10.00am - 1.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

Place Marketing Debate

City Centre - Leicester

LEICESTER MERCURY

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

Monday 31st

@Leicester_Merc

Thoughtful LeadershipLOROS

Low Carbon Buildings

7.00am - 9.00am

8.00am - 6.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

LEICESTERSHIRE - LEAGUE CHAMPION LOCATION FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

City Centre - Leicester

8.00am - 9.00am

Tuesday 1st

9.30am - 4.30pm

8.00am - 9.30am

10.00am - 1.00pm

Wednesday 2nd

City Centre - Leicester

Meet the Creative Expert

City Centre - Leicester

To Market, To Market!

10.00am - 4.00pm

10.00am - 12.00pm

Thursday 3rd

Supplementary Income - For now and into Retirement!

City Centre - Leicester

Accessing eBusiness – Workshops for Food and Drink Manufacturers

City Centre - Leicester

Melton borough

10.30am - 12.00pm

The Power of 3 Leicestershire Universities Supporting Business 9.00am - 1.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

4.30pm - 6.30pm

80/20 Live!

City Centre - Leicester

Melton borough

Business communications and security in a virtual and physical world

9.00am - 5.30pm

East Leicestershire LEADER Tourism Advice event

9.30am - 12.30pm

City Centre - Leicester

10.00am - 12.30pm

Yoga and Mindfulness Class

Set the Bar

City Centre - Leicester

Modern Communications Techniques for Growing Your Business 9.00am - 1.00pm

Understanding Chinese Consumers – A Taster

10.30amm - 11.30am

City Centre - Leicester

Sports-Led Place Marketing, Growth and place-making

10.30am - 3.00pm

Oadby & Wigston

City Centre - Leicester

10.00am - 11.00am

TRIIFIC! Healthcare textiles

10.30am - 3.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

Taste of Leicester

4.00pm - 7.30pm

City Centre - Leicester

The Norton Experience

10.30am - 1.00pm

North West Leicestershire

9.00am - 5.00pm

Reaching Overseas Tourism Markets

11.00am - 1.30pm

City Centre - Leicester

Brexit Implications for UK Public Procurement

Leicester Makers

9.00am - 5.00pm

Opening Launch of Leicester College’s newly refurbished Construction Technology Centre

City Centre - Leicester

Charnwood

9.30am - 2.30pm

Self Invested Pension Arrangements - Should Every SME Have One?

6.00pm - 11.30pm

Start Up Smart

Melton borough

The Pop Up MailChimp Seminar

City Centre - Leicester

Employment Law & Health and Safety

Stand Up Challenge Leicester 2016

9.00am - 1.00pm

Blaby

City Centre - Leicester

10.15am - 12.30pm

6.00pm - 8.00pm

Charnwood

You Don’t Have Time - How to Work Smarter with Systems, Sales and Marketing 9.30am - 12.30pm

9.00am - 1.00pm

Co-operatives - model businesses for the 21st century

City Centre - Leicester

The beneﬁts and business drivers for gaining greater value from ISO14001 Certiﬁcation

City Centre - Leicester

9.30am - 4.00pm

Opportunities in the Business Tourism Sector

2.00pm - 3.30pm

City Centre - Leicester

9.30am - 12.30pm

Business Growth Masterclass - an Introduction to Strategy for Growth 2.00pm - 6.00pm

Charnwood

Effective Digital Marketing

City Centre - Leicester

How can a successful Charity Beneﬁt your business

6.00pm - 9.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

Niche Networking - November 16

6.00pm - 9.00pm

Better workplace health direct from the experts

City Centre - Leicester

Concannon Connection

9.00am - 12.00pm

8.00am - 10.00am

Friday 4th

City Centre - Leicester

Melton borough

Charnwood

7.30am - 9.30am

Behavioural Proﬁle Training

Closing and Celebration Event

1.00pm – 3.30pm Oadby & Wigston

Finance & Marketing ‘Mastermind’ workshops for start-up businesses

5.30pm - 7.00pm

The outlook for development in Leicestershire

7.30am - 9.30am

9.00am - 3.30pm

City Centre - Leicester

5.30pm - 7.30pm

Leicester Castle Business School Business Breakfast Club

Charnwood

8.30am - 11.00am

Blaby

Marketing in the Making

10.00am - 3.30pm

Panel debate on the need for diversity in the Creative Industries workforce

5.30pm - 6.30pm

Scale Up or Sell Out: Succession Planning

8.30am - 10.30am

10.00am - 4.00pm

Setting Up a Successful Social Enterprise

City Centre - Leicester

8.30am - 10.30am

Blaby

HR Forum - Employment Law Update and Apprenticeship Reform

Oadby & Wigston

Pensions Halloween - The liability Nightmare facing Employers and Trustees.

8.30am - 11.00am

Building a cost effective team for your business (and other productivity growth hacks)

Charnwood

8.00am - 10.00am

Accessing Training & Apprenticeships – A Workshop for Food and Drink Manufacturers

PwC Speed Knowledge Sharing

City Centre - Leicester

Brexit - The potential impact on indirect taxes

10.00am - 4.00pm

10.00am - 12.00pm

Blaby

The Role of Physical Activity and Sport in Education

10.00am - 1.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

9.30am - 5.45pm

City Centre - Leicester

Promoting the Suppy Chain in the Oadby & Wigston area

Serious Play! Innovation and Solving Business Problems with Lego

Lean in the real world

City Centre - Leicester

E-Commercial Conference 2016

9.30am - 1.00pm

Executive Company Projects - No-cost Masters student business resource

7.30am - 9.30pm City Centre - Leicester

North West Leicestershire

Environmental Careers Event

Blaby

Is your company at risk of a cyber attack?

9.00am - 3.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

Careers Speed Networking

9.00am - 3.30pm

Oadby & Wigston

Google Digital Garage from the Federation of Small Businesses

Women into Business

10.00am - 12.30pm

City Centre - Leicester

Breaking the mould in delvering a community sports arena 11.00am - 3.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

Yoga and Mindfulness Class

3.30pm - 5.00pm

City Centre - Leicester

Visit www.leicesterbusinessfestival.com for all event details for further information call 0845 31 30 31 #LBF2016

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

#LBF2016

LLEP Business Gateway: working with you on your business journey

he Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) Business Gateway is the ‘Growth Hub’ for Leicester and Leicestershire. It is part of the Government network of 39 growth hubs across England, created to join up national and local business support and make it easy for businesses to find the help they need. The LLEP Business Gateway can help existing businesses at all stages of development and the information and guidance is free and impartial. Dr George Gillespie OBE is chief executive of the Horiba MIRA research facility, near Hinckley, and LLEP business board lead. He said: “There is a clear desire among business owners to find opportunities for growth and to get their businesses fit for the future. “The LLEP Business Gateway is Leicester and Leicestershire’s primary goto place for business support.

BUSINESS GATEWAY www.llepbizgateway.co.uk

“It works as a fantastic signposting service which is completely free to local businesses.” The LLEP Business Gateway website, www.llepbizgateway.co.uk, is packed with details about national and local business support available across the city and county. Complementing this, a team of information officers take telephone and e-mail enquiries covering a whole range of support needs including business planning, new premises search, start-up and growth support. Since October 2014, the Gateway team said they had dealt with more than 1,440 support enquiries. This spring, after securing European Regional Development Funding, a business advisor service was also introduced. Advisors cover the whole of Leicestershire and offer a free business review meeting. This provides businesses with the opportunity for a face-to-face meeting with an experienced business advisor to discuss any business issues from sales and marketing and access to finance to training and recruitment, growth plans and systems and processes. Cathy Ciffe is managing director of Peppercorn Catering Limited, in Anstey, a family-run business providing homecooked food. The business has expanded rapidly over the past 10 years, so she sought help on where to take it in the future.

VALUABLE SUPPORT: David Wright, economic strategy manager at LLEP Business Gateway, and Tiffany Freeman, LLEP marketing and communications officer at last year’s Leicester Business Festival She said: “It can be really valuable to speak to someone outside the business who can offer solutions and support, as well as a structured report and on-going advice. “The time I spent talking with a Business Gateway Advisor has been so useful and helped me prepare an action plan to manage my business growth”. The LLEP Business Gateway first became involved in the Leicester Business Festival in 2015, running several successful events.

The Gateway has gone on to expand its presence at the festival this year. David Wright, economic strategy manager for the LLEP Business Gateway, said: “Leicester Business Festival is a fantastic event promoting entrepreneurship, celebrating business and helping it to grow – three things that are exactly in tune with the aims of the LLEP Business Gateway. “The first festival was so successful and opened a lot of people’s eyes to just how much there is going on across Leicester-

shire. The Business Gateway is focused on helping businesses across Leicester and Leicestershire to understand what support is out there to help them grow and to facilitate connections between business and experts. The Leicester Business Festival is the perfect showcase for this.” The Business Gateway is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund. If you are a business looking for support, contact 0116 366 8487 or visit the website at: www.llepbizgateway.co.uk

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

@Leicester_Merc

#LBF2016

Low Carbon Sector â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Day 6, Monday, October 31

Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outstanding technical expertise

he low carbon goods and services sector continues to be a particularly healthy source of growth, driven by environmental legislation and consumer demand for low energy products and homes The East Midlands is particularly fortunate in having outstanding technical expertise in its universities and innovative companies that both help the region compete globally in the low carbon sector. Festival lead sector for low carbon is Dr Rick Greenough, professor of energy systems and research group leader at De Montfort Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development. He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Businesses in the low carbon goods and services sector are helping to grow the local economy as well as addressing local problems of air quality, fuel poverty and secure employment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The business festival is the place to find out how your organisation can contribute to this success.â&#x20AC;? There will be three themed events related to the low carbon sector taking place on October 31 and lots more taking place across the fortnight. They will describe opportunities for businesses who can help make Leicester a smart city, opportunities to benefit from new renewable energy systems and advances in low

DRIVING FORCE: Chief executive George Gillespie at the Horiba MIRA site. Below, right, sector lead Dr Rick Greenough

carbon construction techniques. The day will include a De Montfort University event looking at the benefits of low carbon buildings. Delegates will visit the new Energy Lab, in Oxford Street, where they will see examples of research being done there. Another highlight of the festival, on the opening day of October 24, will be a connec-

ted and autonomous vehicles event at the vast Horiba MIRA research facility, near Hinckley. The early afternoon event will highlight the latest technological developments in intelligent and autonomous vehicles, and highlight the growth potential of the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s low carbon sector.

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The day should prove an eye-opener for businesses interested in the new technology. Dr Greenough said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Leicester Business Festival is vitally important for Leicestershire businesses since it allows for promoting sector uniqueness in terms of heritage brands, ethnic products, innovative operations and new target market.â&#x20AC;?

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

@Leicester_Merc

#LBF2016

Distribution and Logistics Sector – Day 7, Tuesday, November 1

Airport has become international hub

he UK is the biggest user of ‘online’ shopping services in Europe and by 2018 it is predicted that around a quarter of all nonfood purchases will be carried out over the internet – with more than one billion parcels home delivered. This has created a massive market for logistics and distribution. Statistics from 2013 showed 72 per cent of British adults shopped online, and there is a growing market for “click and collect” from local stores rather than using home deliveries – although the need for delivery remains, whether by large, articulated trucks or smaller vans. This incredible growth has meant Britain’s logistics industry is worth nearly £75 billion and the workforce within around 200,000 companies currently sits at more than 2.2 million people. Put another way, the logistics sector employs one in 12 working people in the UK. Leicester and Leicestershire are perfectly placed for distribution and logistics companies. Firstly, the area is only four hours away by road from 95 per cent of the British population, with easy access to the M1, the M42, the M69 and the M6. Companies here are only hours away from delivering their goods to around 22 million people, including the huge market in Lon-

DELIVERS THE GOODS: DHL plane at East Midlands Airport. Inset, Jack Kelly don and the South East. Two locations are key to the sector in the region – East Midlands Airport, which has developed over recent years into a truly international hub, and Magna Park, where nearly 10,000 people work for organisations such as TNT, Argos Distribution and Asda’s George. Another key factor is that the East Midlands houses around 20 per cent of the UK’s total warehouse space, while Leicestershire has more floor space and warehouse units

than Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire combined. Estimates have shown that boosting the distribution and logistics sector in Leicester and Leicestershire could create more than 7,000 jobs. The Leicester Business Festival provides the perfect opportunity to announce to national businesses why they should locate their new warehouses and distribution hubs here.

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Why Newby Castleman 93%

because...

of our new clients are from client or professional contact referrals

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East Midlands Airport is the UK’s busiest pure cargo airport and handles more than 320,000 tonnes of cargo every year. More than 6,000 people work at the airport and it generates around £300 million for the local economy. It is the UK hub for DHL and UPS and provides support operations for TNT and Royal Mail. Close to the airport is the East Midlands Distribution Centre which incorporates more than 200,000 sq m of logistics and distribution facilities used by such major names as Marks and Spencer, which is continually developing its distribution centre. Festival lead for the sector is Jack Kelly, head of external affairs at East Midlands and Bournemouth Airports, who sits on the airports’ leadership teams and is responsible for media, public affairs, policy, surface access and corporate social responsibility. Mr Kelly said: “Our transport and logistics sectors have a huge role to play in the future growth of the UK’s local, regional and national economy. “The East Midlands has a strong reputation as a centre of excellence for logistics and is home to the UK’s busiest pure freight airport. “However, we need to do more to capitalise and build on these strengths and Leicester Business Festival will play a critical part in our collectively achieving this.”

78%

of our clients have had increased turnover over the last 5 years

are very satisﬁed with our service

83% of our new start-ups are still growing after 5 years (UK average is less than 50%)

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

#LBF2016

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Creative Industries Sector – Day 8, Wednesday, November 2

Events to showcase diversity and innovation of the creative industry

eicestershire has always been a hub for the creative industries. From former printing houses – supported by the old Leicester College of Printing – to graphic designers, point of sale designers and now website designers, the city and county has led the way. Today establishments such as Loughborough College and De Montfort University’s School of Design work alongside the likes of Phoenix Square and Leicester’s LCB Depot to train the next generation and help startups get their feet under the table. This year’s festival is packed with creative industry events, showcasing the diversity, innovation and breadth of the industry – ranging from brand development, PR and web design to enhancing business with street art and even Lego. Today the city and county’s creative sector takes in nearly 4,400 businesses and employs more than 14,000 people. The sector includes specialist design businesses, a fast-growing digital technology community, and a host of distinctive arts, cultural and festival organisations. Creative hubs are thriving, particularly in the St George’s Cultural Quarter in Leicester, in Hinckley and in Loughborough. The festival’s main creative sector day will be November 2, and the sector headline event will be a panel debate on the need for diversity in the creative industries. Taking place at Curve theatre from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, it will be hosted by Creative Leicestershire and chaired by Harriet Finney, deputy chief executive and policy director of the Creative Industries Federation, along with Professor Mark Banks, a specialist in culture and communication at the University of Leicester. A recent report by the federation suggested the creative industries need to diversify their workforce and leadership and the debate will look at whether the city and county

can demonstrate the need to boost diversity in senior executive teams. Peter Chandler, head of economic regeneration for Leicester City Council – and sector lead at the festival – will open the event and panel speakers will include Jiten Anand from An Indian Summer, Curve chief executive Chris Stafford, and Megan Powell Vreeswijk, senior commercialisation fellow from The Studio, at Loughborough University. Back by popular demand this year, and also on November 2, is the Leicestershire Stand Up Challenge, demonstrating that Leicester and Leicestershire are fun places to do business. Taking place at the Leicester Racecourse Kube, it will see 12 business leaders take to the stage and perform their first ever five minutes of stand-up comedy – all in aid of charity. Another event, called Set the Bar, takes place on November 2 at the city’s Exchange Bar, and is being hosted by LCB Depot. It will be an opportunity for businesses to share knowledge, discuss issues and gain a perspective on the impact of Brexit on the creative industries. Another creative industry event during the fortnight includes a look at How Street Art is Good for Business, also taking place at Leicester’s Exchange Bar, from 5pm on October 26. It will bring together international street artists and businesses who have commissioned work, to discuss the reach of street art and its impact on business. In 2004, sector lead Peter Chandler launched LCB Depot for creative start-ups in the city, and has managed a portfolio including Phoenix Square Workspace, Makers Yard and Dock. He said: “Leicester and Leicestershire is a great place to start and grow a business, and Leicester Business Festival is a vital platform to showcase our distinctive strengths and significant economic contribution.”

HE’S NO MUG: Comedian Anthony King, front, with five of the contestants taking part in the Stand-Up Challenge. Below, the Leicester City mural in Kate Street to celebrate their Premier League triumph. Far left, sector lead Peter Chandler

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

#LBF2016

Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing Sector â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Day 9, Thursday, November 3

Motorbike firms a roaring success

ngineering is another great discipline that Leicester and Leicestershire shine in. Local exponents range from aeronautical specialists such as Hinckleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sigma Components, Lutterworthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Semelab and Shepshedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Meggitt Polymers & Composites to vehicle and motorbike engineers like Norton, Triumph, Noble and Caterpillar. Then there are high tech manufacturers for the oil, energy and construction industries such as Nylacast, based in Leicester, and JJ Churchill, of Market Bosworth. The list goes on. Each is part of an industry that has been able to maintain its place at the forefront of global markets. Stuart Garner, owner and chief executive of Castle Donington-based Norton Motorcycles, is the lead for this sector during the two-week festival. He is a prime example of what can be achieved with a true entrepreneurial spirit to use a combination of traditional and modern design and manufacturing to bring a great British motorcycle brand back to our streets and race tracks. All Norton motorcycles are hand built to order with 83 per cent of the parts made in the UK. Mr Garner has also set up an academy and

apprenticeship course to help young people learn the necessary manufacturing skills to build world class bikes. A new 10,000 sq ft manufacturing and training facility is currently under construction on site to enable the current 60 per cent growth rate to continue. Summing up the contribution manufacturing and engineering make to the local economy, Mr Garner said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Much of our industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s product is exported and brings in considerable revenue to the region. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The business festival is a great vehicle that enables the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manufacturers to showcase their product and skills and we can all be proud we have one of the

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strongest regions in the sector.â&#x20AC;? The showcase event for the sector will be a free Norton Experience Day on November 3, when the Donington Hall headquarters will open its doors to the public. Attendees will be given a tour of the production line and the new factory. The tour will be followed by a topical discussion by industry leaders, including Mr Garner, focusing on how Leicester and Leicestershireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advanced manufacturing sector is nurturing trades, education and training â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and redefining the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position advanced manufacturing from the ground up. Mr Garner said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a local business we are proud to be a part of the business festival, we feel itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hugely important to have great local awareness, this helps with our supply chain, our staffing and our sales. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If nobody knows what you do, who you are, or where you are, how can you expect to do business with them? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that simple. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We look forward to welcoming everyone to Donington Hall to discuss all things manufacturing.â&#x20AC;?

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL 2016

#LBF2016

LEICESTER MERCURY

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Sport and Health Sector – Day 10, Friday, November 4

Businesses can learn how to get that competitive edge from sport

et’s face it, Leicester and Leicestershire are now among the premier locations for sport and physical activity anywhere in Britain – justifiably laying claim to being England’s sporting capital. As well as being ingrained in the county’s DNA, sport and wellbeing are integral parts of our economy – and with the market expected to grow more rapidly than the overall economy, sport is genuinely helping to put us on the map. With Leicester City’s historic Premier League success there has never been a better time to showcase our strengths, including our interna-

UNBELIEVABLE TRIUMPH: Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri kisses the Premier League trophy last season. Below, sector lead John Byrne

tionally renowned professional and elite sports clubs, world class venues, worldleading university research and training capabilities and national governing bodies at SportPark, on the Loughborough University campus. The sector also has a strong supply chain – local businesses won more contracts to supply the London 2012 Olympics than any other county in the East Midlands. Leicester was a host city for the 2015 Rugby World Cup, and alongside the Tigers, Riders and the county cricket club, is also home to elite clubs in speedway (Leicester Lions), netball (Lough-

borough Lightning) and hockey (Leicester Women’s Hockey). Then there are the Donington Park and Mallory Park race tracks and horse racing at Leicester Racecourse, while the new Community Sports Arena – home of the Leicester Riders – is a brand new, state-of-the-art 3,000 seater indoor venue. On the academic front, Loughborough University was named UK university of the year for sport in 2014, and played a huge role in training gold-winning athletes at the recent Olympics and Paralympic Games. In total, more than 1,000 sport jobs – excluding academic posts – are located at the university, and it is also home to the new National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine in the East Midlands. Leicester University and De Montfort University also have excellent sport facilities and academic expertise. John Byrne, director of Leicester-Shire and Rutland Sport, is the festival lead in the sector. He said: “The size of the sector is much more significant than people often realise. “Recent studies have demonstrated that in addition to the income generated around Leicester City winning the Premier League in 2015-16, the sector generates just over £500 million of GVA in the area and employs around 17,500 people.” The festival day dedicated to the sector is November 4. On that morning experts from the National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine East Midlands will be at Loughborough University to help businesses of all sizes improve the wellbeing of their workforce. From 11am to 3pm that day, the new Community Sport Arena in Leicester will be used as an example of what businesses can achieve if they “dream big”. All businesses are welcome. Mr Byrne, who has played a key role in promoting the 2012 Olympics legacy in the county, said: “At this time in our political and economic landscape it has never been more important to ensure that businesses find that economic edge. “Businesses that grow and have been sustained have learned and are committed to their workforce. “Business can learn much from the world of sport, and of course vice versa, finding the competitive edge can help secure your growth. “Leicester Business Festival will provide a great opportunity for networking and sharing, shaping your companies’ competitive edge and will support you to bring your innovative plans together.”

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2016

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