connected February 2018

INSPIRING BUSINESS SUCCESS

ISSUE 63/FEBRUARY 2018

The official monthly magazine for Chamber members

BUDGET

Ian MacKellar - the Chancellor had to put a wet finger in the air and guess at how much to allow next year - £3bn was the figure

PLUS. . . all the news from the Chamber Network Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce 100 YEARS inspiring business success

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this issue

CONTENTS

13

25

43

8

29 5

Chief Executive’s highlights

6-7

Ian MacKellar

8-9

Charity

10-11

Knowledge

12-13

Influence

14-15

Global reach

16-18

Connections

21

22-23

Cambs & South Cambs Chamber news

24-25

Sponsorship

27

Fenland Chamber news

29

Huntingdonshire Chamber news

30-31 33 34-35

Peterborough Chamber news Chamber Member news New members

19

Ask the expert

39

LEP

20

Matthew Gooding column

41

Insight from Alex Spencer

21

Ely Chamber news

43

Out & about

45-47

Events

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce 100 YEARS inspiring business success

connected February 2018 3

welcome from the

EDITOR

Welcome...

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce 100 YEARS inspiring business success

Chief Executive John Bridge OBE DL Editor Sadie Parr Published by

Chamber members have an exclusive opportunity to sponsor our events and reach your target market. Our events range from networking, sector, social and business exhibitions. Turn to our centre page spread this month and see what we have coming up in 2018 and more information on our sponsorship opportunities.

In this edition you can find out more about the work of the Business Women’s and Construction Sector and what they achieved in 2017. To join any of our committees please contact Helen Bosett on 01733 370809 or email h.bosett@ cambscci.co.uk.

We have many events taking place in February and beyond. Turn to pages 45-47 or visit the events section on the Chamber website for full details. Take advantage of the event reminder facility online to receive further details closer to the event date if you’re not yet ready to book.

Sadie Parr Editor, connected s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Print xlpress Design Richard Thomas Clare Turner Advertising Iain Robinson iain.robinson@cambridge-news.co.uk Membership team Bren Coleman 01223 209811 Paul Gibbons 07759 934111 Cambridge Enterprise House, Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9ZR. Tel 01223 237414 Peterborough 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6FT. Tel 01733 370809 Email enquiries@cambscci.co.uk Visit cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk @CambsChamber Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

DIARY DATES 1

Maximise your Exhibiting Investment, Cambridge

February 2018

5

Informal Networking Evening, Huntingdon

6

Storm in a Teacup, Ely

7

Speed Networking at Peterborough Biscuit

7

Informal Networking Evening, Stamford

8

Amazing Benefits of Chamber Membership, Cambridge

12 14 15 21 22 Informal Networking Evening, Ely

Amazing Benefits of Chamber Membership, Peterborough

Informal Networking Evening, Cambridge

Informal Networking Evening, Peterborough

Amazing Benefits of Chamber Membership, Cambridge

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

Views expressed in connected are not necessarily these of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of editorial content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/ or omissions. The editor reserves the right to make amendments without notification.

4 February 2018 connected

22 23 27 28 28

Bank of England – Inflation and the Economy, Stamford

Speed Networking Breakfast, Peterborough

Global Business Network, Cambridge

GDPR Get Yourself Prepared, Peterborough

Informal Networking Evening, Fenland

view from the

BRIDGE

Following her election at our recent AGM at the end of last year, I had the pleasure to recently meet with Mary Currie-Smith in her new capacity as Chairman of the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce Board. I, together with all members of the Board and the Chamber team, look forward to working with Mary over the coming two years and know we will all benefit from her valuable input and professional expertise.

I recently met with Nicholas Tate and Izabela Kominek from Tate Freight Forms, along with Hilary and Karen from our in-house international trade team, to discuss our on-going partnership with them to provide our Global members with free access to Tate’s Export Guide. This leading international trade reference publication covers the essential requirements for documentation and procedures involved in exporting to over 240 countries. To find out more about our Global Membership package, please contact our membership team on 01223 237414.

I was very grateful as well as delighted when Caroline Robinson was able to step in at short notice as guest speaker at our Christmas lunch held at St John’s College, Cambridge in December. Caroline focused everyone’s attention on success and remarked how easy it is to think negatively rather than on the many positive achievements we all make.

All present were asked to think about their five key successes over the past 12 months. This proved a challenge to many – thinking of five – and perhaps all reading this should try it for themselves!

Let 2018 be the year when we all ensure we focus on success and not negativity.

John Bridge OBE DL Chief Executive, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce connected February 2018 5

He has managed to squander £700m on we know not what... hen the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond, decided to move the Budget from Spring to Autumn, he presumably expected by then to have a good picture of the likely impact that leaving the European Union would have on the UK economy and the national finances.

But Spreadsheet Phil had reckoned without the rather limited success of Bonehead Davis’s idea that negotiating the underlying principles of Brexit – the treatment of EU nationals in the UK and UK nationals elsewhere in the EU, the size of the divorce settlement, and sentry posts in Ireland – should consist of hurling gratuitous insults at Michel Barnier, the EU negotiator, and other assorted foreign officials, governments and nations.

So the Chancellor had to put a wet finger in the air and guess at how much to allow next year to prepare for leaving at some still-unspecified time in the not-very-near future – £3bn was the figure he lighted on. Quite what Bonehead will spend it on is not yet clear. He has so far managed to squander £700m on we know not what: all we know is that he told Hilary Benn’s Brexit Select Committee that it did not include any analysis of the economic or financial impacts on any of Britain’s core industries.

The trouble with Davis and his unprincipled neo-colonialist acolytes in the Commons is that their vision of world domination is not available this side of a Trump landing on the Planet Zog. (What am I saying? I didn’t think anyone could be so benighted as to vote for him last year.)

Eventually, of course, the Prime Minister saw where Davis was leading us, and delivered a temporary rescue to the negotiation by overruling him. She should follow that through by sacking him, along with Johnson, Gove and Fox. If we ever do leave the EU without becoming a Third World economy overnight, I predict that the UK will remain in the single market and customs union and that the European Court of Justice will retain its proper function in protecting the British people from exploitation by future British governments. (You may say in five years’ time that I got this wrong, but my predictions have been pretty accurate so far.)

The point about Brexit in relation to the November Budget is that no other area of public policy matters to those odd people.

Never mind that the policy has put the economy on course for the cliff edge and strangled earnings and investment at a time of technical full employment, when young people have nowhere they can afford to live and productivity is actually declining in spite of technological advances.

All these matters were dealt with by the Chancellor in his Budget (and the OBR in its parallel report), though you would be forgiven for having missed them amid the cacophony of bigots.

Admittedly, the Budget was a bit dull, but that’s Spreadsheet Phil. Yet it was not entirely without merit.

Indeed, its dullness was what commended it to Phil Blackburn, Tax Partner at accountants George Hay, who said: 6 February 2018 connected

“It seems the Chancellor was between a rock and a hard place when it came to knowing how to pitch this Budget; with the constraints of a weak Government majority and leadership on one side and the uncertainty for the economy caused by Brexit on the other.

“On balance, therefore, I feel this was a good Budget for SMEs – not because of any changes Hammond introduced, but because of the absence of wide-scale tax changes.

Businesses can largely continue to plan based on the current tax régime for at least another 18 months.”

There was limited good news on business rates which, from April next year (when they rise by three per cent) will become linked to CPI rather than RPI – though that could be less good news if interest rates and rents start to rise sharply – with revaluations every three years from 2022, rather than five years as now.

Britain already has the highest commercial property taxes of any major economy. How successive Chancellors manage to ignore comparison between the principles of business rating and domestic rating would astonish me if I had a higher opinion of the general morality of politicians. While business rates are absolute and based on frequently-revised valuations, domestic rates are subject to capped, skewed local authority spending requirements and based on a valuation that has not changed in England since 1991. So all those subsequent extensions and conservatories are literally scot-free. It is a nonsense, except to this extent: businesses don’t vote.

Hammond is trying to kick-start housebuilding, but the Government will not tackle the issue of whose hands are on the policy levers. Ministers can cajole and exhort till they are blue in the face, but they can’t force landowners to put a shovel in the ground. If they could, it would have happened during the last decade of cheap finance and rising house-prices.

One thing continues to confuse me: the Chancellor’s announcement that ‘the Government will work with the rail industry on a new railcard for those aged 26 to 30, which will be introduced from spring 2018’. Such a railcard is currently being trialled locally by Greater Anglia, the passenger franchise led by Nederlandse Spoorwegen, which runs Holland’s nationalised railway network. Railcards are commercial products that do not – and never did, even when BR was a nationalised industry – have anything to do with the Government.

There were other titbits of good news for business, though – welcome investment in maths teaching (though not foreign language teaching – I wonder why that was – or even native language teaching, which is generally dire) and in construction and digital training, and some transport funding, including for the expressway between Cambridge and Oxford, and seedcorn funding for a new railway station at Addenbrooke’s.

But look out for political spivs in Cambridgeshire trying to divert cash to negative-value schemes whose worth is yet to come (the schemes, that is, not the politicians). With the Government’s eye off the ball, some very disturbing things are happening to democracy. Watch this space.

report from

IAN MACKELLAR

connected February 2018 7

Addenbrooke’s Paediatric Day Unit transforms with community support Children with cancer and other serious conditions who attend the Paediatric Day Unit at Addenbrooke’s, will now have a better patient experience thanks to transformative improvement works supported by the community and Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust.

The team on the Paediatric Day Unit, that recently re-opened, diagnoses and treats children with cancer and other serious conditions, aged from newborn to 16, in an outpatients setting.

Overall, more than 6,000 children are treated in the unit each year, including over 370 new patients – almost double the number compared with just a decade ago – but the size of the Paediatric Day Unit remains the same.

Thanks to support for Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust from the local community, the charity has provided over £250,000 to improve the unit for patients over and above what NHS funding can do alone.

The funding has enabled phase one of improvement works to take place, making better use of available space and creating a more child-friendly setting. Thanks to the reconfigured space, children can be seen more quickly and there is now a more

pleasant environment for children, parents and carers.

Jodi Betts, Matron for Paediatric Haematology/Oncology said: “We are delighted with the results of the initial phase of the improvement works. The unit was previously cramped and not user friendly, making the environment uncomfortable and stressful for patients, their families and staff.

Now, as well as being less congested, we also have a safer environment for vulnerable children with suppressed immune systems, as the risks of cross-infection in a close space can be reduced.

“We are incredibly grateful to members of the local community who support the hospital through Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust.

These improvements have only been possible thanks to their support.”

To embark on phase two of the improvement project, further support from the community is needed through Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust’s One in a Million Appeal – raising £1 million to transform children’s experiences in hospital. Phase two will include child-friendly artwork to create an even nicer environment and interactive wall-mounted play systems to distract and occupy children while waiting in clinic.

TARGET MET FOR CHARITY HOURS December was a busy month for completing charitable hours with many members of staff out and about assisting at events in the lead up to Christmas.

Karen Keeble helped at the EACH Milton Carol Service.

Paul Gibbons and Helen Bosett went present wrapping for Anna’s Hope at Queensgate Centre, Paul also wrapped presents for Sue Ryder.

Karen Keeble and Karen Cash went bucket collecting for Arthur Rank at Tesco Fulbourn.

Joy Mansfield and Hilary Pawley provided support at the Maggie’s Centre Cambridge Carol Service where over £1,200 was raised.

The choir on the evening was the Saffron Walden Building Society Community Choir.

8 February 2018 connected

Sadie Parr, connected editor and charity of the year co-ordinator, commented: “Throughout 2017 we’ve been encouraging our members to join us in helping our charity members, whether it be by organising and taking part in fundraising events, offering support services as a donation in kind, or giving up time and expertise to help individual charities.

“As a Chamber we committed to giving 100 hours to help charity members and we are delighted that we met this target through a range of activities during the year.

“Taking time out of the office to support our members has been an extremely rewarding experience that we hope our staff will continue in 2018.”

chamber supports

CHARITY

WHAT ELSE HAVE WE DONE… • Bucket shake for EACH at Cambridge Fireworks • Supported Maggie’s Centre Cambridge with their Culture Crawl • Bucket shake for Addenbrookes • Supported Bridge the Gap in aid of Arthur Rank and Romsey Mill • Helped at the monthly fun day for Carers Trust Cambridgeshire • Prepared packs for Arthur Rank’s Bubble Rush event • Support for Anna’s Hope when they became Queensgate’s Charity of the Year • Promoted the Great Eastern Run to local football teams to

encourage them to postpone matches and take part in the Fun Run for Anna’s Hope • Supported Arthur Rank Hospice Charity at their afternoon tea event at Quy Mill Hotel • Spent time with Maggie’s Centre Cambridge finding out more about the support they offer • Bucket collection at Tesco for East Anglian Air Ambulance • Tree planting for Peterborough Environment City Trust • Bucket shake for Anna’s Hope • Sleep Easy event for YMCA.

connected February 2018 9

Chamber membership provides access to key information, expert advice and legal protection, enabling you to stay informed, legally compliant and free to focus on what you do best – building your business.

Automatic Enrolment - What are your ongoing duties?

To date, nearly 9 million people have been automatically enrolled in a workplace pension by more than 850,000 employers. With hundreds of thousands more employers due to reach their duties start date by February 2018, the number of people automatically enrolled will continue to rise.

However, an employer’s workplace pension duties do not stop with declaring compliance and with TPR conducting stop checks on employers across the country to make sure they are complying with their duties, it’s important you are aware what you need to do on a regular and ongoing basis to ensure you comply with the law.

You will need to pay regular contributions into the pension, monitor the age and earnings of your staff and enrol eligible staff, process any requests to join or leave the scheme, and keep and maintain accurate records. You’ll also need to re-enrol eligible staff into an automatic enrolment pension scheme every three years.

Further information on ongoing duties can be found on The Pensions Regulator’s website – www.tpr.gov.uk.

Open for business?

What does the law require you to do on disabled access

10 February 2018 connected

The pitfalls of Facebook and importance of having a social media policy Many of us choose to keep our social and professional lives separate when it comes to social media however there may be the odd occasion when we feel we want to share something that is both work and fun related. But what one individual may deem to be harmless could prove so serious a breach of confidence that it could lead to an employment dismissal.

Employment lawyer Nicola Cockerill from Buckles Solicitors LLP explains…

When does posting on social media overstep the mark and cost you your job?

A recent national story reported the case of an employee who lost her job as a manager at a residential care home for posting pictures and videos on her Facebook page.

The post depicted a music night that was regularly held at the care home.

Whilst it showed staff and residents enjoying the evening, it is also alleged to have breached the employer’s policies and procedures and resulted in her employment being terminated after 21 years of service.

Nicola commented: “As an employment solicitor, I continue to be surprised by the number of businesses where this is not the case. Given the number of employees who actively use social media sites, the ease with

A local business in Cambridge was recently taken to court and fined £10,000 for failing to meet their legal obligations regarding disabled access.

The Equality Act 2010 specifies that reasonable changes or adjustments should be made to ensure that everyone has access to businesses/organisations providing goods, facilities or services to members of the public. For instance, this might include purchasing a ramp when access to your business is via a step and not a flat entrance and purchasing a hearing loop for hearing impaired customers.

As well as ensuring you are compliant with the law, the Government has also reported that disabled people have a combined income of £212 billion so it makes good

which a comment can be posted, the wide audience it can reach, and the potential risk to the business as a result of such posts, it seems strange that some businesses do not have relevant guidelines. After all, a social media policy can afford a business some protection and offer assistance if disciplinary action is necessary.”

Nicola’s top five tips for a good social media policy: 1. Ensure that you have a robust social media policy in place that clearly details what is, and is not, acceptable.

If the business adopts a zero-tolerance approach, then this should be made clear in the policy 2. Use clear language that employees will understand and, where possible, avoid using technical jargon which may be confusing 3. Ensure employees are aware of the policies and procedures and provide relevant training. Make sure these are included as part of the induction process 4. Ensure policies are regularly reviewed and updated. This should be the case with all policies but, given this is such a progressive area, it is especially important 5. Ensure the policy is applied consistently amongst staff to avoid the risk of discrimination arguments and ensure managers are aware how to enforce it.

business sense to ensure your disabled customers can easily access your premises and your services.

Cambridge City Council’s Access Officer, Mark Taylor, is able to provide free, nonbinding advice to you on adjustments you may be able to make, although note that the courts rule on what is considered as ‘reasonable adjustments’ on a case-by-case basis depending on circumstances involved.

Further advice is available on the City Council’s website at https://www.cambridge. gov.uk/collective-responsibilities-under-theequality-act-2010.

You can also seek professional advice from the Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) by phoning 0808 800 0082.

grow your

Members invited to ‘play’ with revolutionary online security tool Cloud-pin Ltd wants Chamber members to try out what it believes is the password and identity confirmation system of the future.

ShayypeTM is a new easy-to-use technology designed to give users a new code every single time they perform an action such as logging in - making life far harder for hackers, while restoring a degree of control to users.

“This is the ingredient that’s been missing from the whole area of cyber security up to this point,” explained Chairman Jonathan Craymer.

“In the past the odds were weighted in favour of hackers and criminals, as anyone using fixed passwords was like a sitting duck, waiting to be shot at.

That’s because hackers can so easily get hold of static passwords, who can then use them like a set of door keys. Giving everyone the facility to ‘generate’ a new login code every time – which no-one else can use - is the answer.”

With Shayype, instead of passwords users employ a secret pattern or shape on a little matrix of squares, which only they know and which never changes.

This guides them to read off fresh combinations of numbers, meaning the resulting code will always be different.

And the code can’t be used again by a hacker, even if it’s intercepted.

There’s more information on www.shayype.com.

Grow your business through innovation The ‘Grow your Business’ brand of workshops was developed by the Chambers’ Learning and Skills Sector five years ago. During that time it has had a different focus of business growth - such as developing and investing in your people, through apprenticeships, planning for growth. As with any growing business it is important to have the right people and skills set.

The 2017 theme was ‘innovation’ and working with partners Exemplas and Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Local Enterprise Partnership we have delivered a successful series which has enable businesses to learn and understand what free business support and grants are available via Innovate to Success programme and Signpost 2 Grow.

The latest workshop was held in

KNOWLEDGE

Peterborough, supported by Allia Future Business Centre and Opportunity Peterborough, and businesses took the chance to take part in workshops which made them think about and discuss their own ideas of business growth.

A new theme will be set for the 2018 series and we would welcome any ideas or suggestions from members as to a theme and workshop element we could focus on with A new theme will be set for the 2018 series and we welcome ideas or suggestions for a theme and workshop element. Send your ideas to h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk For further information on business support and funding visit: Signpost to Grow www.signpost2grow.co.uk/ Innovate to Succeed www.exemplas.com/innovate2succeed/

HR professionals host lively debate

Equality and Diversity was the theme of the latest workshop which was held at Hinchingbrooke Country Park.

HR and Recruitment committee members Nicky Cockerill (Buckles Solicitors), Rebecca Ryan (Leeds Day) and Jo Evans (Evans HR Consultancy) used their extensive knowledge and expertise to bring this event together.

Looking at fictitious case studies such as a member of staff asking for time off for religious reasons, someone seeking

time off (sick leave?) for plastic surgery for non-medical reasons, extended leave request due to family bereavement whilst visiting abroad were debated and through table discussions analysed each situation and their thoughts of handling the case. Some topics caused a very lively debate!

The workshops are aimed to be informative, engaging and provide useful information. Feedback included: ‘love the interaction,’ ‘speakers very knowledgeable’, ‘discussion and ability to digest and challenge’, ‘it was useful to find out other people’s perception/opinion on equality and diversity issues/matters’.

We look forward to delivering more workshops in 2018 to really keep members on the right track when it comes to looking after your people and being up to date with employment law!

Any burning or hot topics you would like us to consider please drop an email to h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk connected February 2018 11

As a Chamber member you have the power to influence key decision makers and play a leading role in tackling the issues that are preventing your business from reaching its potential, while an experienced team of lobbyists represents your interests in Whitehall.

NEW MD TO LEAD IMET SKILLS CENTRE

Annual Conference 2017

BCC Annual Conference

2018 The Conference will take place on 8 March at the QEII Centre in London. A selection of senior decision-makers, business leaders, young entrepreneurs and opinion formers will discuss issues relevant to businesses across the UK. This year’s programme will focus on the following key themes: • The Future of UK Trade • Diversity in the Workplace • The Future of the Workforce.

Confirmed speakers include Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA) Matthew Taylor, who will join the Future of the Workforce panel. The RSA has developed a global profile as a platform for ideas, and during Matthew’s time as Chief Executive it has substantially increased its output of research and innovation and has provided new routes to support the charitable initiatives of its 29,000 Fellows.

The BCC Annual Conference is an excellent opportunity to find out about the latest policy developments, hear from experienced and inspirational speakers and to network with business people from across the country.

Visit the Chamber website to find out more.

12 February 2018 connected

Leading construction industry professional Joanne Sainsbury takes up her new role as head of iMET, a key new £10.5 million manufacturing and engineering skills centre designed to support the region’s economic growth.

Joanne, who has extensive experience of the engineering industry and a passion for emerging technologies, has spent 16 years as a structural engineer in the building industry and has worked on a number of international projects. iMET, the Innovation, Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology centre, is due to open at Alconbury Weald later this year and will focus on high-level training for businesses and apprentices in the key areas where increased skills have been identified as essential for growth.

It will be led by Cambridge Regional College and Peterborough Regional College, in a joint partnership.

The development of the skills centre has been supported by Huntingdonshire District Council, Cambridgeshire County Council, Urban & Civic and the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise Partnership.

Joanne took up her new role as managing director of iMET on 18 December and is looking forward to building a strong relationship with local employers.

“Together we can directly influence the future of the manufacturing, engineering and technology industries, whilst also providing a career path for young people in the region,” she said.

“Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have great potential for growth in these areas and are key to the region’s development. I will be working with employers to understand what they need, how they see the future of their industries and develop what we can offer.

“The rate at which the manufacturing and engineering industries are changing is huge in terms of technology advances, so keeping up with training and skills to meet the demands from employers will be a key objective for the iMET team.”

Joanne Sainsbury, the new managing director of iMET skills centre

the power to

INFLUENCE

Uncertainty constraining UK economic growth The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has slightly downgraded its threeyear outlook for the UK economy, cutting growth expectations from 1.6% to 1.5% in 2017, from 1.2% to 1.1% in 2018, and from 1.4% to 1.3% in 2019.

Key points in the forecast: • UK GDP growth forecast for 2017 is downgraded from 1.6% to 1.5%, and is expected to slow to 1.1% in 2018 (downgraded from 1.2%), before rising to 1.3% in 2019 (downgraded from 1.4%).

Quarter-on-quarter growth in Q4 2017 is forecast to slow slightly to 0.3%.

• Export growth is expected to grow at 4.3% in 2017, 3.1% in 2018 and 2.9% in 2019 as global growth drives international demand, while import growth is expected to grow by 3.7% in 2017 2.7% in 2018, and 2.9% in 2019. This leaves our net trade position weaker across the forecast period than we previously forecast in Q3.

• Productivity is expected to grow by 0.5% in 2017, 0.6% in 2018 and 0.5% in 2019 • Inflation of 2.7% is forecast for this year, and 2.8% and 2.5% in 2018 and 2019 respectively. Inflation is expected to

peak at 3% in the final quarter of 2017, in line with our previous forecast • Our new forecast is that the next increase in UK official interest rates, to 0.75%, will occur in Q4 2019 • Growth in consumer spending is expected to slow from 1.6% in 2017 to 1.0% in 2018, before rising to 1.3% in 2019 • Business investment growth has been upgraded from 0.4% to 2.1% for 2017 as a result of revisions to ONS data, but is expected to slow to 0.8% in both 2018 and 2019 • Looking at sectors, manufacturing growth has been upgraded from 1.4% to 2% in 2017, and is expected to grow at 0.9% and 1.1% in 2018 and 2019.

Construction growth has been revised upwards for 2017 from 1.3% to 3.2%, and is expected to grow at 0.5% and 1.0% thereafter. Services sector growth has been downgraded from 1.8% to 1.7% in 2017, and is forecast to grow at 1.3% and 1.6% in the following years • Public sector net borrowing is expected to total £52.7 billion in 2017, £47.8 billion in 2018 and £36 billion in 2019.

The latest

BCC

Monthly Economic Review is available online

These monthly briefings, prepared by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), provide easy-to-use commentary on the key domestic and international economic indicators for UK businesses. The report also provides a comparison between the economic data compiled by external organisations such as the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the BCC’s own Quarterly Economic Survey and economic forecast.

The Chamber Policy Group is notified by email when the review is available but can be viewed by all members in the member area of the Chamber website.

To join the Chamber Policy Group, email s.parr@ cambscci.co.uk. connected February 2018 13

We’re your gateway to international trade, providing a unique combination of expert knowledge, essential documentation and the business connections needed to capitalise on new market opportunities overseas and succeed in a global marketplace.

Accredited Training in International Trade The Chamber runs a rolling programme of training courses that culminate in the nationally-recognised Foundation Award in International Trade.

The courses provide the knowledge to assist with your international trade activities and you will receive detailed notes to take away to build up a toolkit of reference information.

Incoterms and Export Licence Controls Wednesday 24 January, 9.15am-5.00pm This is your opportunity to understand fully the comprehensive aspects of international commercial terms ‘Incoterms’. You will be guided through each of the Incoterms, explaining the costs involved, who should meet these costs, the transfer of risk points and we’ll clarify the issue of insurance. The roles of BIS (Business Innovation & Skills) and their SPIRE system will also be explained.

Finance Options: Focusing on Letters of Credit Tuesday 27 February, 9.15am-5.00pm Getting paid is a vital part of the sales transaction, so join us on this one-day course to explore the options and reduce the costs involved in receiving payment. You will learn why, when and how to use Documentary Letters of Credit (L/cs).

This masterclass will guide you through the complexities of L/c rules and regulations (UCP600) so you can be proactive in instructing your customer to encourage L/c clauses that work for you.

Cost per course: £250.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £300.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members.

Venue: Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6FT Full course outlines can be found at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk To book, please call Jenni Misseldine on 01223 209810 or email j.misseldine@cambscci.co.uk

14 February 2018 connected

GLOBAL

MEMBERSHIP

an exciting package of costsaving benefits and services for companies involved in international trade.

A key feature is online access to Tate’s Export Guide, the leading international trade reference publication covering the essential requirements for documentation and procedures involved in exporting to over 240 countries. It’s included in every company’s Global Membership package, so you can save money by cancelling more expensive subscriptions you may hold with other providers.

Key benefits: • Online access to Tate’s Export Guide (worth over £455 a year) • 10 free rejections per year – a saving of up to £60.00 (plus VAT) • Additional discounts on export documentation processed in person and online • Additional discounts on our international trade training courses • Additional discounts on our translation services • One hour of on-site documentation assistance and support each year from a member of the export team • Opportunities to ‘Ask the Chamber’ and seek advice and expert opinion from our experienced International Trade team • Subscription to our informative International Trade e-newsletter • Access to the International Idea Exchange, linking members to share expertise and provide advice • Opportunity to display our ‘global member of’ logo on your website and business stationery.

To find out more about our Global membership package, please telephone 01223 237414 and speak to a member of the international trade team.

extend your

GLOBAL REACH

British exporters keep calm and carry on The British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with DHL, have published its latest Quarterly International Trade Outlook, based on survey and documentation data from UK exporters.

The Outlook shows considerable price pressures amongst exporting businesses – but exporters are absorbing the impact for the moment thanks to stronger sales and orders.

The BCC/DHL Trade Confidence Index, which measures the volume of trade documentation issued by accredited Chambers of Commerce for goods shipments, rose by 2.25 per cent on the quarter and stands at the third highest level on record.

The survey, based on the responses of over 3,300 exporters, shows that in the manufacturing sector, exporters are enjoying strong sales and orders in foreign markets, and are also reporting improvements in domestic sales and orders.

The results of the survey indicate the price pressure from the cost of raw materials is high across the board for exporters (86% in manufacturing, 42% in services). 68 per cent of exporting manufacturers consider exchange rates as

a concern to their business.

The findings suggest that the fall in sterling is increasing price pressure for businesses across the economy, but particularly in manufacturing. However, many of those businesses that export have been able to offset the fall in sterling thanks to timely improvements in sales and orders, both overseas and at home.

Key findings from the report: • The BCC/DHL Trade Confidence Index, a measure of the volume of trade documentation issued nationally, rose by 2.25% on the quarter. The Index now stands at 126.51 – up 4% on Q3 2016 – and stands at the third highest level since records began in 2004 • 44% of exporting manufacturers and 30% of exporting service firms reported increased export sales in Q3. 41% of exporting manufacturers and 26% of exporting service firms reported increased export orders • 1% of exporting manufacturers reported that domestic sales had

increased, and 38% domestic orders increased in Q3 2017 • 39% of exporting manufacturers expect their prices to rise. Of these firms, 86% cited raw materials as a cost pressure • 68% of exporting manufacturers cite exchange rates as a concern to their business, and 49% in the services sector • 33% of exporting manufacturers and 31% of exporting services firms view inflation as a concern to their business.

Business cheers negotiations breakthrough in Brussels – and urges swift start to trade talks Commenting on the news that the UK government and the European Commission have reached a deal to conclude the first phase of the Brexit negotiations, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “Businesses will be breathing a sigh of relief that ‘sufficient progress’ has been achieved.

After the noise and political brinksmanship of recent days, news of a breakthrough in the negotiations will be warmly welcomed by companies across the UK. “Business will particularly cheer the mutual commitment to a transition period to support business confidence and trade, and will want the details confirmed swiftly in the new year when negotiators move on to

the big questions around our future trade relationship with the EU. “For business, a swift start to trade talks is crucial to upcoming investment and growth decisions. Companies all across the UK want absolute clarity on the long-term deal being sought, and want government to work closely with business experts to ensure that the details are right.

“Businesses want answers on what leaving the EU will mean for regulation, customs, hiring, standards, tariffs and taxes. The job of the UK government and the European Commission now is to provide those answers – and do everything in their power to ensure vibrant cross-border trade between the UK and EU countries can continue.”

connected February 2018 15

We provide Chamber members with many opportunities to widen their network of business contacts – building connections, creating opportunities and maximising the benefits of being part of Cambridgeshire’s most vibrant business network.

June

Business

Our target to engage with 100 young women during 2017 was smashed at The Skills and Careers Show 2017 in East of England Arena, Peterborough.

The Chamber stand took the focus #BeBoldforChange and saw us sharing, supporting and answering questions to students interested in their next steps and entering the world of work.

Women’s Sector

2017 saw the Business Women’s committee go from strength to strength with a powerhouse of enthusiastic women driving activities that focus and support business best practice in a mutuality supportive environment for our business women members.

We are pleased to share some of our best bits…

‘Supporting professional women to be successful and flourish in social, development and inspirational environments’ Interested in playing a part? Please make contact with Helen Bosett, Sector Co-ordinator, h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk

Follow us on Twitter @CCWomensSector

FEBRUARY The year started with us considering how the whole self, mind, body and soul affect and influence our mood, concentration and motivation.

Led by Eve Taylor OBE, recent Women Leaders Life Time Achievement award winner, took us thorough the do’s and don’ts of getting your personal and professional balance right.

MARCH

My proudest achievement this year is the sell-out event in the Cathedral to celebrate International Women’s Day where we saw business women from all walks of life mixing with school and college young women sharing their aspirations for #BeBoldforChange….amazing!

Keep 8 March 2018 free as we are doing it all again.

May, September and November Our successful Storm in a Teacup networking sessions in Ely and Cambridge saw Chamber members coming together to consider work challenges and solutions through an action learning model. A favourite across the county with people coming back time and time again. More of these scheduled in 2018 at your request!

16 February 2018 connected

JUNE

This year’s summer social saw us at Hinchingbrooke Country Park enjoying productive, professional networking and listening to an insightful speaker focusing on self confidence in the workplace.

December

2017 finished on a high with the extremely popular and successful Christmas lunch.

A great get together with a strong business focus as Brian Jones shared with us his and his wife, Maggie’s, journey from international corporate executives to establishing their successful Alwalton Hall day spa in Peterborough – living the dream!

“I hope this encourages you to consider getting involved in 2018, making the most of your Chamber membership as I am a great believer of the more you put in the more you get out. None of this would be possible without the Chamber infrastructure to support its members in their business goals through the services they offer us. As part of my role at Peterborough Regional College, and a board director of five companies, I find the Chamber services and business networking invaluable. Particular thanks to Helen who guides and supports the exciting plans we come up with and to give you a taste for 2018 see what is already in the bag: 6 February - Storm in a Teacup, Ely 8 March - International Women’s Day, Peterborough April - Professional Development event May - Storm in a Teacup, Cambridge June - Summer Networking, Huntingdon September - Storm in a Teacup, Peterborough September - Business Women’s Conference, Cambridge October - Storm in a Teacup, Ely December - Christmas Lunch, Peterborough Wishing you and your business an amazing 2018 and really looking forward to meeting more of you during the forthcoming year!”

Karen Beckwith, MBA, Chair, Business Women’s Sector and Executive Director Subsidiaries and Business Services, Peterborough Regional College

widen your

CONNECTIONS

Message from the Business Women’s vice-chair “Over 60 business women attended the Business Women’s Christmas Networking Lunch at Orton Hall Hotel.

They were joined by guest Speaker Brian Jones, owner of Alwalton Hall Health and Wellness Centre. Brian gave an impassionate speech about the challenges and the joys of running your own successful business, which he does alongside his wife Maggie and the team of Alwalton Angels.

The delicious Christmas lunch served by the hotel was a wonderful way to start the festive period.

“The Women’s committee felt the year as a whole achieved our aims: to inspire local business women, offer support and guidance in their career aims, and deliver events focused around creating a positive sense of wellbeing, networking opportunities, and of course having fun.

“The Sector committee would like to wish everyone a successful 2018, whatever you hope to achieve. Take a look at our planned events for 2018 and see what you might benefit from being a part of.”

Rachael Church, PR & Communications Manager, Greenwoods Solicitors LLP and ViceChair of the Business Women’s Sector

Construction sector highlights The Construction Sector has had an eventful 12 months and the Construction Network continue to bring together likeminded business and professionals to make connections and form collaborations.

Here are some of their highlights.

January – The A14 Integrated Delivery Team updated on the works and how companies could engage with the project.

March – national multidisciplinary, environmental consultants REC Ltd sponsored the event at Alconbury Weald raising their profile as a new company to the area. In Peterborough we heard an update of the development of Fletton Quays from Peterborough Investment Partnership.

April – over 120 construction related professionals met one to one with successful contractors on the Peterborough City Council Contractors Framework which include Burmor Construction, Coulson and Sons, Kier Construction, Lindum Group Peterborough, Morgan Sindall and RG Carter Cambridge.

June – another successful comedy night and black tie dinner with 110 guests and raising £1,200 for the Chamber Charity members’ pot.

Great entertainment from comedian John Styles (son of ex England footballer Nobby Styles). We’re now on the hunt for a comedian for 2018…any suggestions?

July – more charity fundraising as we held the Chambers’ first Charity Cycle Ride. Twenty cyclists pedalled their way around a 50km route raising just over £300. It wasn’t a race but well done to Colin Brackley for finishing the route first!

September – the Huntingdonshire network met at West Anglia Training Association and heard an update of the A14 works as well as seeing the successful Highways Academy training centre.

November – sponsors Tobermore and Pegasus Planning Group shared the stage and presented their wares in Peterborough, and in Huntingdon we heard from Simon Parsons of Berrys.

These networking events will continue in 2018 – monthly in Peterborough and alternative months in Huntingdon. Dates and locations can be found on the Construction sector page of the Chamber website.

Sponsorship opportunities are available during 2018 – details can be found on page 24-25. connected February 2018 17

widen your

CONNECTIONS

SPECIAL OFFER

PRIZE DRAW WINNERS NOVEMBER The November prize draw was made

by Brian Jones, the newest member of the Chamber Board, in the beautiful setting of Orton Hall at the Business Women’s Christmas Lunch.

Brian is Chairman of Alwalton Hall, a beauty and wellness sanctuary and day spa in Peterborough.

Our new member winner is FlexiSolar Ltd and our member winner is Steve Worboys from Lindum Peterborough.

Both members will receive £100.00 off their next membership renewal.

BUILDING NETWORKS Our festive drinks evening took place at Dawson of Stamford which brought together local businesses to network and connect whilst enjoying a little tipple and fine party food courtesy of Waitrose.

Guest speaker Cllr Matthew Lee, Leader of SKDC gave an interesting speech about his early achievements since his time in office and referred to a successful Business Summit and the launch of Invest SK and the benefits this will make to the Stamford economy.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS AND SHARING IDEAS

18 February 2018 connected

Being new to the Cambridge area, Angela Hunt from To the Moon and Back Foster Care, saw the Storm in a Teacup session as a great way to meet new people but more importantly to share and seek ideas.

She sought feedback, guidance and advice from others present in relation to raising their profile in the area and of increasing the awareness of the need for more foster carers across Cambridgeshire.

Angela came away full of suggestions she had gleaned and commented: “Storm in a Teacup is a great concept. It was lovely to meet a group of business women in a relaxed environment willing to generously offer ideas and relevant local knowledge all of which has helped me prioritise our marketing strategy. Having never met any of them before, I left feeling I had made some lovely friends and I am already looking forward to the next session.”

Our next Storm in a Teacup event takes place in Tuesday 6 February in Ely. See the event pages for full details.

As a Chamber member you have access to many exclusive and discounted offers from our national partners and local Chamber members, helping to drive your business costs down.

One of these offers is from AXA PPP healthcare.

By taking out business healthcare cover with AXA PPP you will receive the following: • Up to 50 per cent discount on your Chamber membership fee When you join AXA PPP healthcare, you can receive 50 per cent off your Chamber membership for three years.

Terms and conditions apply: • Free Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) This will be available for the whole company to use, not just those covered by the healthcare plan. This gives all employees in the company 24/7 confidential telephone access to qualified counsellors providing support on any issue concerning them.

What are the benefits?

• Tackle mental health issues early – getting people the right support and quickly ensuring everyday issues don’t escalate • Help reduce absence to keep the business running smoothly • Businesses can demonstrate a robust mental health strategy with access to an online portal as well as e-counselling.

For more information on this benefit, please contact Bren Coleman on 01223 209811.

ask the

EXPERT

Do all SMEs need to be in the cloud in 2018?

Aidan Kirkpatrick, Director of Kirkpatrick Consult Limited and over 20 years’ experience of working in IT and teaching, has his say.

According to the Cloud Industry Forum back in February last year, the overall cloud adoption rate in the UK for SMEs was 82 per cent, so the chances are that you are already. If you consider yourself to be in the remaining 18 per cent, then either you don’t know what constitutes cloud computing or you haven’t seen how easy it is to set yourself up with enterprise level systems at SME level affordable prices.

Some cloud services are actually FREE! Cloud computing (or ‘the cloud’) is ‘a network of remote servers hosted on the internet and used to store, manage and process data in place of local servers or

Legal Privilege... are your communications as private as you think?

David Hodge, Principal Lawyer with Slater & Gordon LLP, says that legal privilege can be complex but broadly speaking, documents that are subject to legal privilege are an anomaly to the general rules of disclosure/inspection in that they remain private and do not have to be disclosed during legal proceedings.

Are all confidential documents protected by privilege?

Absolutely not. They must meet relevant

personal computers’. Or in other words, any website that you have to log into your account with a username and password.

Cloud computing is everywhere! Think of any area of your business (accounting, marketing, communications, customer relations, planning…) and there will be at least one cloud service (Xero, MailChimp, Office365, HubSpot, Trello) for it.

Which cloud services should you use?

There is obviously no one-solution that will work for everyone, but you should definitely be using one. Why? Well, a lot of people have put (and continue to put) a lot of time and effort in to creating cloud based solutions that are useful to their users and then they host, maintain and support them. This means that not only do you benefit from all of the expertise that the creators have acquired over time, but you also get that without the usual support and maintenance overheads required for

internal systems and at a very small (if at all) scalable monthly price. In addition, unless you intend to fund your own R&D department, you will benefit from all of the upgrades and modifications that the cloud service provider has invested in. If you are not afraid of change and are able to evolve to meet demand, this can be very useful. The trick, of course, is to know which changes to implement and how.

If implemented well, this gives you the competitive edge as it frees you up to do what you do best and as is so important in this day and age perfect excellent customer service.

So, in order to answer the original conundrum, no you do not need to be in the cloud, but if you aren’t already, you should definitely be thinking about how it can make your business more efficient and ultimately more profitable.

tests in order to benefit from privilege.

What are the key forms of privilege?

The most important forms of privilege are legal advice privilege and litigation privilege.

How do these two forms of privilege differ?

Legal advice privilege attaches to all communications made in confidence between a client and his/her legal adviser for the purpose of giving or obtaining legal advice. Whereas litigation privilege applies to confidential communications between a party and his/her legal adviser (or certain third parties) only where litigation is existing, pending or reasonably contemplated, and where the dominant purpose of the communication is to obtain advice or assistance in connection with that litigation.

So, legal advice privilege covers any communications with my ‘legal advisers’?

In short, most but not all and there are some key exceptions to be aware of: 1. Very importantly, ‘legal adviser’ is narrowly construed – it includes solicitors and barristers but does not include HR Adviser’s or others who are not legally qualified such as accountants. This is a common misconception.

Care should also be taken with in-house counsel (i.e. employed lawyers) who often perform both legal and commercial roles.

2. It applies only to communications between the ‘client’ (i.e. those authorised to

seek and receive legal advice on behalf of the business) and the legal adviser and not others. So, in one case interview notes taken by a solicitor did not benefit from privilege.

3. A document does not attract privilege merely by virtue of being sent to a legal adviser. The document must exist for the purposes of taking advice. Documents created more generally will not benefit.

What of litigation privilege, as there any things to look out for?

Inevitably, yes. A couple of the key points to be aware of include: 1. If litigation is not yet commenced, it must be a real likelihood and not a mere possibility. This can cause difficulties when a business wishes to assert privilege over advice given in connection with a disciplinary or grievance process, for example, unless legal advice privilege applies.

2. The ‘dominant purpose’ of the communication must be obtaining advice or assistance with the actual or anticipated litigation. The burden of proof is on the party claiming privilege and often documents can be created for more than one purpose.

Privilege is a legal concept that is often ignored or misunderstood. It can be complex, but is undoubtedly of great importance in ensuring that private communications remain just that. Challenging privilege and requiring disclosure can often provide ripe pickings for a Claimant in litigation. connected February 2018 19

business talk with

MATTHEW GOODING

LinkedIn

If I had to make a New Year’s resolution, it would probably be to spend less time on social media.

Of course, there’s a certain amount of perusing that’s part of the job, but too often I find myself aimlessly scrolling through Facebook and Twitter when I should be doing something more productive.

The network which I have the biggest love/hate relationship with is LinkedIn. Now, don’t get me wrong, it’s proved very useful to me in terms of making contacts, scoping out companies for stories and, recently, finding subjects for our Working Day feature that runs in Cambridge News each week. If you’d like to get involved with that particular article do let me know, we’re always looking for candidates.

But what I can’t stand is having to scroll through a raft of supposedly motivational

nonsense to get to the good stuff. If you’re on LinkedIn you’ll know what I mean, the posts in question often come from Silicon Valley types with a gazillion followers, many of whom have been deemed ‘influencers’ and conferred a special status by the site.

They usually concern hiring, or team morale, or some other concept where they can teach us mere mortals a thing or two. A few examples currently appearing on my feed: “How to deal with nightmare colleagues”, “Should kindness be part of your business strategy?”, “Why hiring aliens is the way forward for your company”.

I might have made that last one up, but you get the drift.

The other common type of irritating posts are the long, unverified, and probably made-up tales of people who have had come through massive hardship to become business heroes. I guess these give some people hope and inspiration, but for me they’re just a waste of internet space, the sort of fake news nonsense that belongs on viral websites.

So if you use LinkedIn, please think before you share, you’ll be doing us all a favour!

Matthew Gooding is Business Correspondent of Cambridge Business magazine, produced by Cambridge News & Media, which this year scooped the Santander SME/Enterprise Title of the Year for an unprecedented third consecutive year.

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news from

Welcoming Business Development Manager Dean Newton Highly-experienced Business Development Manager Dean Newton is welcomed to the Ellgia Group, another exciting appointment to one of the regions fastest growing waste management companies.

Dean has over 25 years commercial experience in both waste and transport industry, having held several key management positions within a number of leading waste companies.

He will be responsible for contributing to Ellgia’s overall business development strategy and will play a key role in delivering the company’s ambitious

Blue Donkey celebrates 20th birthday As Blue Donkey turns 20, we leave our teenage years behind and march towards our quartercentury. Way back in 1997, we set out to meet the emerging intelligent telemarketing needs of local hightech companies. Basically, we wanted to make the calls they would make themselves if they had the training, the teams and time to do so. We’ve helped our clients navigate a changing telemarketing industry and several recessions. Over the years we’ve honed our skills and aided hundreds of businesses in improving their marketing and communication skills.

Although hitting the two-decade mark is an achievement, we are more excited about what the future holds.

We’ve gained both ISO:9001 and IIP accreditations, maintained exceptional levels of customer service and customer care and worked hard to ensure we’re always at least one step ahead of the competition.

ELY CHAMBER

growth goals as well as building on its outstanding reputation for service and high quality services to its clients.

Joe Hemsley Rudd said: “Dean’s track record, experience, and contacts in the sector are second to none and we are thrilled to have him on board. He brings with him incredibly strong knowledge and experience which will be vital as we continue our ambitious plans to grow and continue to deliver high quality services for our clients.”

Dean commented: “I am very excited to be joining the dynamic and innovative team at Ellgia during an exciting time for the company. I am looking forward to meeting clients and colleagues, old and new, and working with the team in achieving its future sales and business growth targets.”

Students meet former PM Gordon Brown during visit to city Government and Politics students at King’s Ely were given the chance to fire questions at former Labour Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

The group of Sixth Form students attended an ‘Afternoon Tea with Gordon Brown’ event organised by Topping and Company Booksellers.

The event was promoting Brown’s new book, Gordon Brown, My Life, Our Times, of which some students were lucky enough to get a signed copy. Gordon Brown, an MP for 32 years and longest serving Chancellor of the Exchequer in modern times, also talked in great detail about his political career and personal life, including how inspired he was to meet Nelson

Mandela and how disappointed not to win the 2010 General Election.

After the talk, King’s Ely students took advantage of the opportunity for members of the audience to ask questions, with topics covering everything from Brexit to Labour policies.

Teacher of Government and Politics at King’s Ely Senior, Sharon Jackson, who organised for the students to attend the event, said: “It was a unique opportunity for our Government and Politics students to meet a former Prime Minister and invaluable in broadening their understanding of Prime Ministerial power, certainly something that cannot be replicated in the classroom.”

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk connected February 2018 21

College stars in accommodation audit Murray Edwards College is celebrating receiving a Three Star Campus Rating for the third time, following an in-depth audit of the standard of en-suite accommodation it provides for conference delegates and B&B guests.

It was awarded the accolade from VisitEngland, the country’s national tourist board, for the facilities and services on offer in its bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as public areas such as reception and the dining room.

The audit included assessment of a wide range of different aspects of the accommodation – from decorative order through to the choice of refreshments on offer.

Freya Vaughan, Marketing & Events Officer, said: “We were so pleased to receive our Three Star Campus Rating once again this year which is an important official endorsement of the high standard of our accommodation.

“Our repeated success reflects a number of enhancements we have made to our facilities since the last audit.”

Celebrating success at Murray Edwards College, left Chris Pope, General Manager Conferences, Catering and Residences with Freya Vaughan, Marketing & Events Officer.

Citystay scoop SME Business of the Year Award Citystay Serviced Apartments are the recipient of the Highly Commended SME Business of the Year award by the Association of Serviced Apartment Providers at their fifth annual Gala Dinner and Awards evening.

The criteria for the award included having a sound business plan and marketing strategy, combined with strong leadership and management skills, exceptional customer service, solid financial performance and

Cambridge North sees continued passenger growth Passenger numbers at Cambridge North are continuing to grow six months after the station was opened, figures have revealed.

Over 75,000 people have used the station since it opened in May, with almost 5,000 people passing through during the week commencing 24 September, the most yet and almost double that of its opening week.

22 February 2018 connected

clear unique selling points.

Managing Director Neil Fernandez commented: “It’s fantastic for all of our loyal and hard-working team to be recognised at industry level.

This award affirms and energises the Citystay team for our expansion plans for 2018.”

The continued success and development of Citystay is testament to a fundamental belief that the delivery of an outstanding service must never be compromised.

Train operator Greater Anglia says that passenger numbers have continued to grow above expectations since the station opened in May 2017, demonstrating its importance as a vital point of access to the business park, which was previously only accessed by road.

Greater Anglia’s Managing Director, Jamie Burles, said: “We’re delighted that Cambridge North is proving popular beyond our initial expectations and that it is benefitting residents and local businesses alike, opening up new journey opportunities in the north east of Cambridge.”

Best Business Women Awards 2017 Finalists Desi Gray and Sohini Biswas from SKAT Limited have been shortlisted recently as finalists in the Best Business Women Awards 2017 in Recruitment and Customer Services categories.

Desi commented: “We are so proud to be nominated as both the categories represent what we do.”

Debbie Gilbert, organiser of The Best Business Women Awards, said: “We were delighted with the number of entries this year, which came in from all over the UK. This is a tough competition judged by business experts. To be a finalist is a major achievement. Finalists have been selected for their business acumen, determination, creativity and tenacity.

Over 80 per cent of start-ups fail in the first three years and all our finalists are all shining examples of being successful entrepreneurs who have proved their success to our judges.”

Sohini said: “We are really excited as this is our first national award nomination and we are really proud of what we have achieved so far.”

news from

CAMBRIDGE & SOUTH CAMBS CHAMBER

Domino support school science club Domino Printing Sciences donated a selection of items as resource materials to enhance science lessons and as the first step towards sponsoring a regular after-school Science Club.

Bar Hill Community Primary School were presented with a box of scientific equipment to use in the classroom.

The Science Club will give children the opportunity to access scientific enrichment activities, encouraging them to engage in the subject and potentially decide to study it at a later stage.

Domino employees will play an active part in the club, sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm with the pupils.

Christina Bird, Senior Analytical Chemist and Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Ambassador at Domino, said: “Key Domino staff are currently working towards providing support and activities

including events during the Spring and Summer terms as outlined in the school’s curriculum.

“I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to lead this exciting collaboration.”

Phenomenal support secures funding

local community.”

Michelle Yung, Marketing & Communications Manager at Form the Future CIC, said: “We are delighted to be receiving funding from the NatWest Skills and Opportunities Fund, which will enable us to create a specialised programme that will benefit many disadvantaged students in our local area.”

Form the Future CIC is one of 12 organisations in the Midlands and East region that has been awarded a grant from the NatWest Skills and Opportunities Fund.

The £12,111 grant will allow the social enterprise to develop a new entrepreneurship programme that will benefit over 400 students from local schools.

Teaching students about the skills and behaviours needed to succeed in business, will encourage and inspire them to succeed in other areas of their lives.

This new programme aims particularly to help and empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Janat Hulston, Chair of NatWest’s Midlands and East Regional Board, said: “Through the Skills and Opportunities Fund, we have been able to support a range of programmes in their development and delivery. Form the Future CIC has created a fantastic programme through which will have a positive impact on the

Bill Brogan, Conference & Catering Manager and Ian Hogg, Assistant Catering Manager.

College achieves National Allergy Accreditation

Children and teachers from Bar Hill Community Primary School receive scientific gifts from Domino.

L-R: Mariana Soberon, Danny Holt, Anne Bailey, Andy Rice, Anna Aldred, Michaela Eschbach, all from Form the Future CIC, and George Neville-Jones from NatWest

New appointment enhances economics Bidwells has welcomed Juliet Clark as Principal Planner to provide research, analysis and advice to clients on strategic planning and economic policy issues and produce socio-economic evidence in support of local plan promotions and planning applications.

The catering team at St John’s College produces more than 1,400 meal each day and was working towards this achievement for many months before being assessed.

Bill Brogan, Conference & Catering Manager, said: “A huge amount of work has gone into this accreditation and I’d like to thank Ian Hogg, Assistant Catering Manager who has led the initiative.

“The College has had an Allergy Policy in place for some time and working towards this accreditation has helped ensure we meet the objectives set. It has involved not only reviewing practices, but also training our team to understand the implications and responsibilities of being an Allergen Accredited Venue.

“Before each service starts, all staff are briefed on the dishes to be served and what specific allergens are contained. This is backed up by allergen cards and details on the menu which also provide this information.

“We have a growing number of students and visitors from both the UK and overseas who have allergens and food intolerances, particularly in relation to dairy. This accreditation highlights our official commitment to engaging with and helping to meet their requirements.”

Looking to the future, the college will undertake two sessions of allergen training every year for all staff and also undergo an annual Allergy Audit, conducted by external assessors.

This includes undertaking demographic modelling, housing and employment needs analysis, five-year housing land supply assessments, socio-economic impact assessments and economic benefit statements.

Neil Waterson, Partner and Head of Economics at Bidwells, says: “Juliet’s expertise and experience will complement our

wider planning offer, helping to support our efforts to grow work in the Life Sciences and wider commercial sectors, as well as assisting with the growing number of new settlements and strategic residential projects with which we are involved. By appointing Juliet, we will be able to develop our service further, adding strategic value to client projects.” connected February 2018 23

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

2018 Is your organisation looking to raise its profile, be at the forefront of a specialist audience or simply looking to sponsors a high profile event in 2018?

Here is a quick snapshot of the wide range of special events we have in our calendar for 2018 with sponsorship to suit your target audience, location or pocket.

All sponsorship packages provide great publicity and exposure for an organisation through our event promotional channels with additional benefits specific to the event.

NETWORKING BREAKFASTS/ LUNCHES A number of networking breakfasts are held across the county throughout the year, attended by a vast range of business sectors.

Sponsorship: £100.00 (plus VAT)

International Women’s Day (IWD) - Peterborough Celebrating IWD at Peterborough Cathedral with 140+ business professionals and young people, to be inspired by our guest speakers and debate the theme #PressforProgress.

Sponsorship £500.00 (plus VAT)

Exhibitions Comedy Night and Black Tie Dinner - Peterborough Organised by the Construction Sector, over 100 business professionals gather in June for a good, fun evening with a three course dinner, wine and guest comedian.

Main sponsorship £1,000 (plus VAT) or smaller packages available on request.

24 February 2018 connected

Four exhibitions take place throughout the year in different parts of the county – Newmarket, Huntingdon, Cambridge and Peterborough. Each attended by hundreds of visitors representing a wide business range.

Various exhibition packages available on request.

chamber

GLOBAL BUSINESS AWARDS - CAMBRIDGE Recognising outstanding achievements from members trading internationally or providing a service to. Global Leaders lunch is held in Cambridge in June with 70+ in attendance.

Choose to sponsor from four categories: • Award for International Service Provider • Award for Achievement in New Markets • Award for Overall Growth in Exports • New Exporter of the Year Award sponsorship £300.00 (plus VAT) per award

SPONSORSHIP

Riverboat Georgina - Cambridge A relaxing, summer social networking event in August on board Riverboat Georgina,

attended by 60+ people from a wide range of business sectors.

Sponsorship: £350.00 (plus VAT)

CHRISTMAS

LUNCH - CAMBRIDGE

CONSTRUCTION NETWORKING LUNCHES AND BREAKFASTS A specialist forum for construction and propertyrelated companies to meet informally to connect, form collaborations and share best practice.

• Peterborough – monthly lunches attended by 60+ construction professionals • Huntingdon – alternative monthly breakfast meetings attended by 40+ construction and property professionals Huntingdon - £350.00 (plus VAT) Peterborough – from £300.00 (plus VAT) or exhibit for £30.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £50.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members

Our traditional Christmas event held in Cambridge and attended by 70+ business executives and professionals.

Sponsorship: £1,000.00 (plus VAT)

Business Women’s Christmas Lunch - Peterborough Over 60+ business women get together to make new connections and share knowledge in a fairly fun and relaxed environment and be inspired by a guest speaker.

Sponsorship: £250.00 (plus VAT)

Full event details and sponsorship packages are available by contacting Helen Bosett, Sector Co-ordinator (h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk) or Jenni Misseldine, Events and Training Co-ordinator (j.misseldine@cambscci.co.uk) connected February 2018 25

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FENLAND CHAMBER

Racing season success

Businesses look set to reduce CO2 emissions by 1,800 tonnes with help from Business Energy Efficiency project Since the Business Energy Efficiency (BEE) project launched in the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough area in spring 2017, the programme has supported 70 SMEs to identify cost savings of £411,233 and carbon savings of 1,801t. That’s the equivalent of 535 flights from London to Sydney!

This potential savings have been identified by working with small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to improve their energy efficiency. The project is being delivered by the environmental charity PECT, in partnership with Groundwork and Nwes.

Using funding secured from the European Regional Development Fund, BEE offers a free audit service to help organisations identify energy saving opportunities.

Businesses who look to invest in capital projects to improve energy efficiency can access a grant scheme offering up to £20,000 in financial support.

Terry Henderson from the BEE beneficiary, Automated Systems Group Ltd, based in Bar Hill near Cambridge, explains: “It has been a pleasure working with the Business Energy Efficiency team, resulting in a much improved working environment and reduced carbon footprint.”

Following advice from the Business Energy Efficiency advisor that visited their site, Automated Systems Group Ltd replaced its traditional light fittings with LEDs leading to a reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions, whilst cost savings are expected to be approximately £2,500 in the first year alone.

Prior to commissioning the LED lighting project, Automated Systems Group Ltd was successful in applying for a grant from Business Energy Efficiency and received £5,246 (25 per cent of total costs) towards the improvement works.

Businesses across the region have also been taking action to improve their energy efficiency and save money. However, BEE’s grant funding pot is limited and only available for a fixed period of time, so businesses are recommended to get in touch sooner rather than later!

To find out more and to register your interest, please visit www.beecp.co.uk, email info@beecp.co.uk or call 01733 882549.

Motorsport staff and students at Wisbech have been celebrating an incredibly successful race season, thanks to a special partnership with Norfolk Cars Ltd – MINI Specialist.

Their achievements this year include two wins and two double podiums, which made up just a fraction of their 28 trophies.

The highlight of the season, however, was earning a fantastic second place in the 2017 MINI Challenge UK’s Cooper AM Class. The championship took place at Snetterton with three drivers representing CWA and Norfolk Cars Ltd – MINI Specialist: Chris Middleton and Gary Papworth racing in the Cooper AM class and Neal Clarke in the Open class. Ultimately, it was Chris Middleton who secured a trophy for the college, having achieved second position in all his races.

JP Latham, motorsport and engineering lecturer, accepted the award on behalf of his team at a glitzy ceremony in Whittlebury Hall, Silverstone. He said: “The 2017 MINI Challenge season has gone really well for us, the team of staff and IMI Motorsport level 2 and 3 students built, prepared and ran two MINI Coopers all season. We worked in partnership with Norfolk Cars, MINI Specialist, and I’m thrilled we won almost 30 trophies including second in the AM Cooper Championship…we’re certainly looking forward to the new season in 2018!”

Chris Middleton, driver and motorsport lecturer, added: “It’s been a privilege both co-managing the team this year with JP and driving our number 78 MINI Cooper, bringing it home in second place in the AM Category. We’ve had a great start to competing in this championship alongside our partners Norfolk Cars – MINI Specialist and things are looking exciting for next year.”

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page? Get in touch.

Tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk connected February 2018 27

news from

Mick George Ltd provide solid foundations for A14 improvements Mick George Ltd has been contracted to complete a significant proportion of work on the A14 project.

Great progress has been made to date, along the 21-mile route of this 1.5 billion Highways England scheme.

The project team is committed to positive engagement with local communities, employing local workers and companies wherever possible.

To that end, local business Mick George Ltd has been contracted to complete a significant proportion of work on the project, for which circa 1,000 locally-sourced staff members are employed, of which 150 have been recruited for this project alone.

The organisation has now landed a lucrative contract worth over £16 million, for the exclusive supply of concrete for the main highway build.

In its entirety, 300,000m3 of concrete will be supplied over three and a half-years, from two dedicated on-site plants. These have been established on site at Brampton and Ermine Street, with further supplies sourced from Mick George’s existing local facilities.

To date, the concrete supplied has been instrumental in the advancements made to build 34 new bridges and other structures. The first side road bridge on the A1198 opened to traffic in September 2017, with the Grafham Road bridge, which will pass over the A1 and A14, also nearing completion.

Many of the columns and foundations for the remaining bridges are in place, including the 750m River Great Ouse viaduct. This structure alone will require 800 concrete panels and the manufacturing of panels required for the bridgedecks is also well underway.

In addition, the business has already made significant earthworks, concrete and waste management provisions on the project’s five site compounds within the Cambridgeshire region, which are critical to the development of the project.

Total aggregate requirements for the duration of the project are likely to exceed 10 million tonnes and Mick George Ltd’s contribution brings numerous benefits.

HUNTINGDONSHIRE CHAMBER

Awards success for Encocam Encocam are thrilled to announce their success in the EEF Futures Manufacturing Awards, winning Environmental Achievement South East Region and South East Regional Runner Up for Business Growth. They now go forward to the next round for Environmental Achievement, to compete on a national level.

The Environmental award recognises manufacturers and supply chain firms that have done the most to improve their overall environmental performance and enhance sustainability. They were up against stiff competition from a range of innovative

businesses – small and large – from across the region. Their entry was selected by a panel of judges drawn from business leaders, industry experts and academics, who were impressed by our significant water reduction and efficiently managed waste disposal. With the regional title now secured, they will now go on to compete for the national title in London in January 2018.

The EEF Future Manufacturing Awards, now in their ninth year, are the most established and respected regional and national recognition of manufacturing success.

Local Chartered Accountants help businesses celebrate success at National Awards Keith Middleton, based at the Letchworth office of George Hay Chartered Accountants, recently joined the judging panel for the SME National Business Awards 2017.

The awards were presented at a glittering ceremony, beneath the iconic arch of Wembley Stadium, on Friday 1 December 2017.

Amongst the awards up for grabs were Best New Business, Business Innovation, Apprentice of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year and an Overall Winner, which went to White Cross Vets.

Keith Middleton said: “Whether it is logistical challenges, working out who to employ, dealing with finances and tax, or making sales, running a small business can be an all-consuming challenge.

“That is why I was so keen to join the judging panel and help celebrate the achievements of the UK’s very best small businesses.

“Here at George Hay Chartered Accountants, we work with a diverse range of SMEs across a variety of sectors, so we understand the challenges they face, but we also see the real difference they make to their staff, customers, owners and communities.

“I would like to congratulate all the winners on the night, as well as those who were shortlisted. As judges, we faced some very difficult choices.”

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk connected February 2018 29

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page?

Get in touch. Tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

ABAX enters Germany and continues its expansion streak in Europe The Norwegian telematics company ABAX announced it is to continue its expansion streak as the company enters Germany. This follows rapid growth rates in the UK and Dutch markets.

“We are looking forward to our strategic entry into the German market. Like the rest of our markets, the German market demands solid technical solutions which makes it easier to manage small and large vehicle fleets in an efficient and smart manner,” says Petter Quinsgaard, CEO ABAX Group.

3.2 million commercial vehicles are waiting for ABAX in one of the most attractive automotive markets in the world. With a market penetration rate of only 15 per cent it still remains significantly untapped when it comes to advanced aftermarket telematics solutions.

“ABAX’s continued growth into new European markets highlights the progression that we are making as a company. The German economy is one of the strongest in Europe and will, along with offices in Poland and The Netherlands, help to capture significant market share within mainland Europe,” says Chris Miller, CEO ABAX UK. The solutions provider has experienced significant growth rates above 30 per cent in the last five consecutive years.

Arbicon Rebrands Arbicon, Your Construction Experts, are Chartered Quantity Surveyors with a difference! 2017 was a very exciting year at Arbicon as they went through a business rebrand.

Eve Strug, Business Development Manager, commented: “Arbicon have been providing Adjudication and Chartered Quantity Surveying services to the construction industry for many years.

Over time, we realised that there was a major gap in the market for a business such as ours to extend our expertise in a collection of related services.

“During our brand realignment programme we developed six subbrands under the Arbicon umbrella, these are Alternative Dispute Resolution, Construction Debt Recovery, Expert Witness, Collaborate, Contracts and Academy.

“In addition, our rebrand also saw a number of new marketing initiatives. Leading the way was a fully responsive website, supported by new stationery, video show reels, a brochure pack about our business and even promotional merchandise.

“We are very excited for the future and we relish the opportunity to continue to find solutions to the many problems in construction for construction people.”

GREENWOODS SOLICITORS LLP SUPPORT EXPANSION PLANS Greenwoods Solicitors LLP was delighted to act for Oundle based client Fairline Yachts to secure its expansion into a five-acre (20,000 sq metre) facility in a waterside location.

The aquistion will create up to 200 jobs in the Southampton area and allow Fairline to build larger yachts, which has not been possible at its existing Northamptonshire location.

The new site, to be named Fairline Marine Park, will boast state-of-the-art facilities.

30 February 2018 connected

Building work is expected to take around nine months to complete and Fairline hopes to launch the new facility and begin boat building on the South Coast this summer.

Associate Director Kelly Peck: “I’m extremely proud of the Commercial Property team at Greenwoods for its hard work in completing this deal so quickly and efficiently.

We are delighted to have supported Fairline in such an important investment for their future growth and look forward to seeing the new facilities in Southampton take shape.”

CKH celebrate community champions

Cross Keys Homes (CKH) said a massive thank you to Peterborough residents who give back to the community at their annual Resident’s Awards evening.

CKH handed out awards to residents who received nominations from their neighbours for their hard work and dedication to making a difference.

The evening celebrated those residents who have achieved great things for themselves, their neighbours or their whole communities.

More than 100 people attended with the red carpet even being laid out to greet the honoured guests.

Popular former DJ, Keith Dalton, hosted the evening with each of CKH Directors presenting one of the awards.

Chief Executive of Cross Keys Homes, Claire Higgins, said: “Congratulations must go to all the worthy winners and runners-up. It’s always a challenge for the judging panel to choose a winner from the shortlisted nominees as there are so many inspirational stories.

“This year we recognised a wonderful group of young students who went on a journey in self-confidence, incredible volunteers who spend their time helping others, and the good neighbours who do Cross Keys Homes proud every time they do something to support their community.”

All the winners received an award and certificate which had been sponsored

by Cross Keys Homes’ contractors Mears.

news from

PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER

Solicitor recognised as expert Claire Clarke, solicitor at Hegarty Solicitors, has been awarded full membership of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

STEP is the global professional association for practitioners who specialise in family inheritance and succession planning. STEP works to promote high professional standards among its members.

Claire’s expertise lies in all aspects of wealth management, including drafting Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney, dealing with probate applications and administering estates together with Court of Protection applications and care home planning.

To be accepted for full membership, Claire followed the Qualified Practitioner route which is open to practitioners who already have a recognised professional qualification and

at least five years of postqualification experience.

Claire was required to complete three 5,000 word thesis papers on different areas within the STEP fields.

Greg Baker, Partner and Head of the Wills, Trusts and Probate department at Hegarty Solicitors commented: “We are delighted that Claire has been awarded full membership of STEP and has demonstrated her expertise in this area. To become a full member of STEP, practitioners must have a combination of specialist qualifications and experience, including significant involvement at a specialist level. We are proud to now have four solicitors who are full members of STEP in our team and one affiliate member of STEP, which means we are able to offer our clients expert advice from solicitors who are highly qualified in their area of law.”

Watch out for digital in 2018 but make sure to cut through the noise Digital is one of the top internal communications trends for organisations to watch out for in 2018, according to feedback captured in the weekly ‘Who’s who Wednesday’ feature from pfk the communications agency.

‘Who’s who’ profiles those working in the internal communications (IC) industry by asking a common set of questions each week.

Contributors from across the industry gave their predictions for the top three IC trends for 2018, with 50 per cent citing digital and social media, but caution was also given on how these channels are used.

A great example of how social media can be an integral part of the internal communications toolkit was provided in the first ‘Who’s who’ from Louise Creighton, Communication and Engagement Manager at Anchor Trust. The introduction of Workplace by Facebook at Anchor gave everyone in the organisation

a voice, resulting in over 71 per cent of users active on a weekly basis.

Internal communications recruitment specialist, Vicki Marinker, believes that internal communicators need to use social media and influencer networks with authenticity to build trust with employees. Whilst Jennifer Sproul, CEO of the Institute of Internal Communication (IoIC), advises IC professionals to ‘Cut through the noise’ with shorter, sharper and more visual messaging and to understand how internal audiences consume content, to enable improved segmentation techniques and personalised messaging.

Industry commentator and IC Kollectif Contributor of the Year, 2017, Mike Klein wonders whether practitioners will embrace the model for rethinking ‘internal comms’ as ‘employee communication’ will gain any traction.

How to contribute pfk the communications agency will continue to monitor and share IC insights and commentary through ‘Who’s who’ in the new year.

To contribute, simply complete and submit the online form at http://commsagency.co.uk/ whos-wednesday-form/

Celebration of Communication Marketers took away a host of new ideas following a seminar organised by promotional merchandise firm Vibrant Colour.

The free half-day ‘Celebration of Communication’, held at the Allia Future Business Centre, covered topics like digital marketing strategy, promotional merchandise, and gender marketing, with more than 40 in attendance.

Christopher Smith, Director of Vibrant Colour Print and Promotional Merchandise, who has created the event, said: “It was great to bring together marketers from across the city, and from post-event feedback, it seems like everyone took away at least one piece of new learning.

“I was delighted to learn a couple of delegates have had conversations between themselves after the event developing plans, and I’ve already helped several businesses develop exciting and effective promotional merchandise making use of the ideas and inspiration they picked up from the event.”

connected February 2018 31

The perfect place for your life sciences business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A truly networked location, Norwich Research Park is home to 80 businesses and brings together 4 world-renowned institutes alongside the University of East Anglia and the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust with clinical trials facilities.

The Park offers world-class research facilities, a thriving life sciences community, cost-effective rent and it’s just an hour from Cambridge.

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Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce 100 YEARS inspiring business success

news from

CAMBRIDGESHIRE MEMBER NEWS

Prestigious award for East Anglian businesses Commodore Matt Harrison OBE Royal Navy, on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, awarded six East Anglian businesses with an Armed Forces Covenant Silver Employer Recognition Scheme Award at an event held at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge.

The Employer Recognition Scheme was launched in 2014 by the Prime Minister to recognise and reward UK employers for their support and commitment to Defence. The scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employers that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to Defence and the Armed Forces Community. This includes the reserves, service leavers, Armed Forces veterans, the wounded, injured and sick, cadets, military spouses or partners and their families.

Silver award holders demonstrate support for defence by employing at least one person from the defence community and actively communicating and projecting a positive image of defence to their employees via established HR policies and procedures. They also support reservists by giving them the flexibility needed to plan and fulfil their annual training and mobilisation commitments.

As part of the event, 61 other businesses from across the region also had their status as Silver Award winners re-validated highlighting their continued commitment to defence personnel since 2014.

Commodore Harrison, said: “After 30 years in the Royal Navy I understand, more than most, how essential forces-friendly employers are in supporting our Armed Forces to protect their nation, our nation. The relationship is mutually beneficial.

Those who serve or have served offer employers a wealth of knowledge, skills and fresh perspectives and, in turn, many employers are prepared to offer a nurturing, supportive and rewarding work environment. My thanks and congratulations go to all of the East Anglian employers for the work they have done and continue to do in supporting the defence community.”

Kristina Carrington, Regional Employer Engagement Director, Ministry of Defence added: “It’s wonderful that the number of East Anglian employers with Silver Award status is growing. It clearly illustrates that the region strongly supports the men and women of our Armed Forces who give so much to our country.”

BREXIT, BUDGET AND BREAKFAST Scrutton Bland, a leading provider of accounting, tax and financial advice and services to individuals and businesses across the region, held its second budget breakfast of 2017.

Guests were greeted by some famous faces, in the guise of life sized cardboard cut-outs of national and international political figures including Teresa May and Donald Trump.

The theme was the turbulent geopolitical events of recent months and the perpetual deal or no deal question hanging over the UK’s exit from Europe.

Managing partner Jason Fayers commented: “Global politics in North Korea and the USA have kept the world on tenterhooks, but closer to home it is the situation with Brexit and the effect the uncertainty is having on our economy which we are watching most closely.”

Scrutton Bland’s Budget Breakfast is now an established fixture on the regional business calendar, and the event is regularly oversubscribed. Working late into the night, Scrutton Bland’s team of tax, independent financial advisers and finance professionals transcribe, analyse and consolidate the Chancellor’s key points ready to present them to an audience of over 280 invited guests the next morning.

High profile winners in this November’s Budget were first time house buyers, drivers of electric cars, and lower and middle earners. Following a generous cooked breakfast of locally sourced produce, they were presented with a concise scrutiny of some of the most pertinent changes which will impact their personal and business affairs.

“It is important to us as a firm that we provide our clients and associates with our professional response to the Budget announcements as quickly after the Budget as we can,” commented Jason Fayers.

“As advisers we understand the effect that the Budget can have on the economy of our region and we take our responsibility to our clients very seriously. By hosting a breakfast straight after the Budget we can provide our professional opinions on the impact of any tax and fiscal changes on the finances of our clients.”

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page? Get in touch.

Tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk connected February 2018 33

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce 100 YEARS inspiring business success

Would you like to become a Chamber member?

Get in touch today to find out the many benefits.

Tel: 01223 237414 Email: enquiries@cambscci.co.uk

NEW MEMBERS this month ASK US HR

AVIDITY IP LTD @AVIDITYIP CAMBRIDGE ADVISORY PARTNERS @CAMBSAP_MEDIA CHRIS GROOME DECORATING LTD @BAGROOME CHRIS HARRIS WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD GBC LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT OWLSTONE INC @OWLSTONENANO REGAL PARK PROPERTY COMPANY @REGALPARKUK

Ask us HR Ltd is a small consultancy offering expert HR advice to local businesses.

They tailor their work to the specifics of the HR challenges you face, whether it be a one-off piece of advice or on-going support, they always have the best interests of your company at heart.

THE ROTARY CLUB OF ELY HEREWARD

www.askushr.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Ely Hereward

CAMBRIDGE ADVISORY PARTNERS Cambridge Advisory Partners (CAP) is a boutique practice of highlyexperienced consulting partners, CEOs, successful entrepreneurs and behavioural specialists committed to delivering a more accessible partner-led service, making a real and measurable difference. CAP have a new purpose to bring the consultancy, advice and support expected by multi-nationals to local companies. www.cambridgeap.com

34 February 2018 connected

The Ely Hereward Club is one of the new generation Rotary clubs - focussing on supporting and fundraising for charities and good causes based in the local community and helping in practical ways those less fortunate than themselves.

They meet every Wednesday evening at St Peter’s House in Broad Street, Ely. Their club’s style is relaxed, informal, flexible, and progressive. There is no

formal meal, no ritual, and no regalia at our regular club meetings.

They are now into their 30th year and membership is approximately 50:50 men and women, with a wide spread of ages and backgrounds. Since 2004 the Club has raised over £60,000 for local, national, international charities and local good causes. www.rotaryclubely-hereward.org

news from

REGAL PARK PROPERTY COMPANY LIMITED

NEW MEMBERS

Regal Park is an established award winning independent estate agents who have offices in Stamford and Peterborough. Their services include sales, property management and financial services. They look forward to meeting other members of the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. www.RegalPark.co.uk

connected February 2018 35

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“We’re moving in together and both have children.

What do we need to know?”

Cohabitation-law.co.uk is the UK’s first website dedicated to the financial and legal issues facing unmarried couples in England and Wales. The reality is that couples that live together do not have the same legal rights as married couples, and despite popular belief, the ‘common law marriage’ does not exist.

To talk to us in person call: 0344 326 0450 or email: cohabitation-law@mills-reeve.com

So whether you are at the start of a relationship or the end, this website provides you with all the simple, practical answers and advice you need to protect yourself and your family.

Cohabitation-law.co.uk

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connect with

LEP

Pledge your support to young people and help shape the workforce of the future

#JoinTheJourney Finding new members of your team with the right skills can be a real challenge for local businesses. To tackle the issue, we need to not only look at the current pool of job seekers, but also look ahead to our future workforce.

The skills-gap is growing due to a combination of local talent being drawn down to London, and a mis-alignment between education and the skills needed in the workplace. Businesses are now realising they have a key part to play in defining the future of a suitably skilled workforce, if they are going to have a healthy supply of well-skilled employees in the future.

An important activity businesses can do to help tackle this pressing issue is work with their local schools and colleges at a strategic level. This allows businesses to better connect with the workforce of the future, and help young people to better understand the future employment opportunities in the local area.

From the very beginning, the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough LEP has prioritised skills with a single ambition; for our business needs to drive the skills supply at local level. Over the last five years through the funding of local skills teams, the LEP has been supporting business to engage with education providers. To date over 2,000 businesses have benefited from this unique relationship, as well as 140 schools and sixth form colleges. All are now making a difference to how careers messaging is delivered to the young talent of the future.

As part of an initiative to further this

network of partnerships, and support the wider ambitions of local businesses, the LEP is leading a campaign asking all businesses to make a pledge of support to local schools and colleges to provide young people with an insight into the world of work.

Entitled #JoinTheJourney, the campaign – run by the LEP’s Signpost 2 Skills programme – calls upon businesses to support local schools and colleges with their careers activities and employer engagement. This could be anything from going into a school to give a talk about their own career journey through to taking on a young person for a work experience placement.

Stella Cockerill, Head of Skills at the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough LEP, explains: “It is vital for young people to learn more about the different career options available to them locally. By having the opportunity to hear from local business people, and experience what it’s like to work in a real business environment, we are equipping them with the knowledge and insight they need to make the right decisions about not just future careers, but about the qualifications, skills and experience they will need to secure those jobs.

“From a business perspective, it also means you have the opportunity to spot young talent and play a proactive role in developing your future workforce now. The career messages they receive now will shape the careers decisions they make and the value they will offer potential future employers. I would

therefore encourage as many businesses as possible to #JoinTheJourney and pledge their support.”

It couldn’t be easier for businesses to get involved. They simply need to visit www.gcgp.co.uk/jointhejourney/ to download the Pledge Form and return to the Signpost 2 Skills team, who will then be in touch with further details on how to engage with the campaign.

The #JoinTheJourney campaign has already started to gain support from a range of local businesses, from small enterprises to multinational organisations. No matter what size your business is, from individual entrepreneur to global corporation, the Signpost 2 Skills team would encourage you all to #JoinTheJourney and make your pledge today.

Find out more and obtain the communications toolkit by visiting www.gcgp.co.uk/ jointhejourney or searching #JoinTheJourney on Twitter.

connected February 2018 39

Love birds no more?

At Woodfines we understand that family issues, such as divorce, are stressful and emotional for everyone involved.

We also recognise the need to provide practical support to help you secure your future. We are specialists in resolving financial disputes, some of which can be complex and of significant value. We look at alternatives to full litigation, such as mediation and collaborative law, which can help ease the emotional pain of separation.

Our friendly lawyers take the time to listen to you and understand your circumstances. We tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and secure the outcome you want by: • supporting you through this difficult time • working with you to achieve a quick and amicable solution • providing a personal, local service • being flexible about when to meet • offering free parking facilities on site

Taking the time to understand you...

For sensitive, helpful advice, from one of our friendly lawyers, call 01223 411421 or email cpilsworth@woodfines.co.uk.

insight from

ALEX SPENCER

WHY YOU NEED VIDEO CONTENT MARKETING

Video content marketing is becoming the norm these days, so if you want to be noticed online you need to take that first step.

Around 82 per cent of all internet traffic will be video content by 2020, according to research by Cisco.com. Many people now prefer the ease of watching a video rather than reading about a product.

Include YouTube in your marketing strategy YouTube is the second biggest search engine after Google, so it makes sense to be seen

there. According to research by Google, almost 50 per cent of internet users look for videos relating to a product or service before visiting a store. If they can’t find a video about your product, they may skip past it.

How to get started with video content There are plenty of ways to start using video on your website and in social media that will attract customers.

These are some of the simple ways you could transform the way you present information to your customers and reach a new audience.

• Create a product demonstration video • Publicise an event with a taster clip • Create a shareable animation for social media • Change customer testimonials from text to video to engage more people • Try an animated explainer video which uses graphics and a voiceover to talk about your products and services • Build a massive Twitter following using behind the scenes videos of your business

• Showcase your products with an unboxing video. Samsung have particularly effective unboxing videos for their new phones • Demonstrate expertise by filming a useful presentation. For service-based companies, a video can inspire trust by showing customers the team they will be working with.

Deciding which type of video to use Normal marketing rules still apply to video content – so you should consider your specific marketing goal, your audience and distribution method.

Decide where your video will be seen. Will it stay on your website or should it be shared on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn? You may need a different tone for different channels.

The quality of video you need will depend on its purpose. A launch event or video brochure will need to be professionally shot.

If you want to send a quick Tweet from a networking event, use your phone’s camera.

Alex Spencer, Spirus Marketing

Managing your payroll needn’t be a headache Moore Stephens can handle your payroll processes from start to finish saving you time and money.

We can also help with auto-enrolment, employment tax advice, remuneration planning and employee share incentives.

Call 01733 397300 or email east.midlands@moorestephens.com to find out more.

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Moore Stephens East Midlands is an independent member firm of Moore Stephens International Limited. Registered to carry on audit work and regulated for a range of investment business activities by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales. DPS39038 December 2017

connected February 2018 41

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it’s happening

OUT & ABOUT

Send us your photos each month and we’ll include the best of the bunch! Email images direct to s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

St John’s welcome Chinese delegation A delegation, including Mayors from Ankang City in Shaanxi Province, China visited from the National High Tech Industries Development Zone to talk about Cambridge and inward investment. They visited St Johns College where they were given a talk about Cambridge, the benefits of coming to the city and the welcome that Chinese delegations can expect.

Dance Moves and Grimm Tales in Ely

KING OF THE RING

Global street dance sensation Flawless put King’s Ely students through their paces during a high energy masterclass at King’s Ely while Thespians at King’s Ely Junior wowed audiences with their sell-out production of Grimm Tales.

In excess of 300 people turned out in force at Vic’s Gym, Peterborough, for a special Charity Boxing night, delivered by local business Mick George Ltd.

HAINES WATTS SUPPORTS LOCAL CHARITY The staff at Haines Watts Peterborough City office were delighted to hand over a cheque for £213 to Jacqui Campey, Services Manager at Peterborough Rape Crisis Care.

Staff members nominated a local charity to receive funds from their ‘Dress Down Fridays’ Charity collection.

connected February 2018 43

ALL-INCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP

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FREE training programmes

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chamber

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

EVENTS

100 YEARS inspiring business success

AMAZING BENEFITS OF

CHAMBER

MEMBERSHIP DATE: Thursday 8 February and Thursday 22 February TIME: 9.30-11.30am LOCATION: Milton Hall, Ely Road, Milton, Cambridge, CB24 6WZ DATE: Wednesday 14 February TIME: 9.30-11.30am LOCATION: Chamber office, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6FT PRICE: Free to attend, please register in advance CONTACT: Bren Coleman on 01223 209811 or email b.coleman@cambscci.co.uk

explore new opportunities to do business overseas, or take advantage of the cost-savings and protection available, our extensive membership package offers it all.

You will also discover our latest promotional opportunities and get connected with our benefit service providers. We will also explain how we can help you engage with others in the Chamber network and across the wider business community.

Come and learn the real, tangible benefits of membership in terms of financial savings and increasing revenue and profitability.

Whether you’re looking to generate interest in your services and increase sales, develop your professional skillset,

DATE: Wednesday 28 February TIME: 9.00am-12.00pm LOCATION: The Bull Hotel, Peterborough, PE1 1RB DATE: Wednesday 7 March TIME: 9.00am-12.00pm LOCATION: Holiday Inn, Bridge Road, Impington, Cambridge, CB24 9PH PRICE: £30.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £45.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members CONTACT: Jenni Misseldine on 01223 209810 or email j.misseldine@cambscci.co.uk The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force in the UK in May 2018.

It could expose you to fines of up to €20 million.

GDPR is not just about what marketing material you can send to your customers, it also covers all ‘data processing’ that your business undertakes, whether that is done on a computer or on paper.

If you are not now planning for GDPR, you probably should be. Mike Holland of OlsenMetrix will outline what is required of you and how to stay out of trouble with your data to ensure you stay within the law.

CAMBRIDGE

SPEED NETWORKING

BREAKFAST - PETERBOROUGH DATE: Friday 23 February TIME: 7.45-10.00am LOCATION: The Bull Hotel, Peterborough, PE1 1RB PRICE: £17.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £24.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members CONTACT: Jenni Misseldine on 01223 209810 or email j.misseldine@cambscci.co.uk

GDPR GET YOURSELF PREPARED

Promote your business to a room full of people, broaden your network of business contacts, pitch ideas to potential business partners and even cut your everyday business costs by switching to a new supplier at this forthcoming Speed Networking event.

SAFARI NETWORKING

BREAKFAST DATE: Tuesday 23 January TIME: 7.45-10.00am LOCATION: Fitzwilliam College, Storey’s Way, Cambridge, CB3 0DG PRICE: £17.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £24.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members CONTACT: Jenni Misseldine on 01223 209810 or email j.misseldine@cambscci.co.uk Take advantage of our safari’s group format and get connected with other Chamber members table by table, plus the opportunity for a little extra networking over a full English breakfast before you head back to work.

Chamber members can book events online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk connected February 2018 45

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce 100 YEARS inspiring business success

Your essential business calendar for the next months.

INFORMAL NETWORKING EVENINGS

February 2018 5

St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club 5.00-7.00pm

7

The Crown Hotel, Stamford 5.00-7.00pm

12

Poets House & Restaurant, Ely 5.00-7.00pm

15 21 28

Metro Bank, Cambridge 5.00-7.00pm

Peterborough Greyhound Stadium 5.00-7.00pm

SAVE THE DATE

Thursday 8 March 2018 celebrating International Women’s Day at Peterborough Cathedral A morning of inspirational speakers and workshops on this year’s theme #PressforProgress We expect another sell out event with 140+ business representatives and young people.

Further information and ticket prices can be found on the Business Women’s page of the Chamber website.

46 February 2018 connected

Octavia View, Wisbech 5.00-7.00pm

GLOBAL

Business Network DATE: Tuesday 30 January and Tuesday 27 February TIME: 5.00-7.00pm LOCATION: The Moller Centre, Storey’s Way, Cambridge, CB3 0DE PRICE: Free to attend CONTACT: Helen Bosett on 01223 209815 or email h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk Organised by the International Sector Whether you are already involved in international trade or considering expanding into new markets, Global Business Network offers a unique informal environment to share experience and expertise.

• Monthly guest speakers providing specialist knowledge and advice

INFLATION AND THE ECONOMY DATE: Thursday 22 February TIME: 6.00-8.00pm LOCATION: The George Business Centre, Stamford, PE9 2LB PRICE: £10.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £15.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members CONTACT: Helen Bosett on 01223 209815 or email h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk Pam Wright, Deputy Agent for the Bank of England in the East Midlands, returns to Stamford to talk about the Bank’s latest forecast for inflation and the economy. She will also look at prospects for growth in the UK economy amongst the Brexit uncertainties.

Sponsored by:

• Learn more about markets and successful strategies by talking to other exporters • Form relevant connections across the globe • Hear the latest initiatives and meet those that can help to support your international trade activities • Obtain export documentation advice from the Chambers’ in-house international trade team.

At our January event guest speaker Vincenzo Pampararo, International Trade Manager at Department for International Trade (DiT), will give an update as to the structure of DiT, business support available to companies who trade internationally or those considering exporting, plus funding streams available.

STORM IN A TEACUP DATE: Tuesday 6 February TIME: 9.30-11.30am LOCATION: Poets House and Restaurant, St Mary’s Street, Ely, CB7 4EY PRICE: £12.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £17.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber member CONTACT: Helen Bosett on 01223 209815 or email h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk Organised by the Business Women’s Sector This innovative event brings professional women together to share ideas and experiences.

chamber

EVENTS

FORTHCOMING BUSINESS EXHIBITIONS 2018 TWO COUNTIES

BUSINESS EXHIBITION DATE: Wednesday 14 March TIME: 11.00am-3.30pm LOCATION: Millennium Grandstand, Rowley Mile Racecourse, Newmarket • Exhibition space from £100.00 (plus VAT) • Free speed networking • Free business seminars Your business can be part of this fantastic event with a stand to promote your own business available from just £100.00 (plus VAT) plus you will have the chance to meet and network with other businesses and gain some excellent brand awareness. Visitors and exhibitors can also take advantage of free seminars and speed networking sessions.

Organised in partnership with Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, West Suffolk Councils and Cambridge Independent.

Huntingdonshire DATE: Wednesday 25 April TIME: 10.00am-4.00pm LOCATION: Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester • Huntingdon’s biggest business to business networking event • Over 100 exhibitors • Free speed networking sessions • Expert seminars • Stands available from £95.00 (plus VAT) Organised in association with the Federation of Small Business.

MAXIMISE YOUR EXHIBITING INVESTMENT DATE: Thursday 1 February TIME: 9.30am-12.00pm LOCATION: Madingley Hall, University of Cambridge, High Street, Madingley, Cambridge CB23 8AQ PRICE: £17.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £24.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber member CONTACT: Jenni Misseldine on 01223 209810 or email j.misseldine@cambscci.co.uk

THE PETERBOROUGH BISCUIT DATE: Wednesday 7 February, TIME: 9.00am-5.00pm LOCATION: East of England Arena and Events Centre WEB: www.peterboroughbiscuit.co.uk This event includes three speed networking sessions organised by the Chamber, taking place from 10.30-11.30am, 12.30-1.30pm and 2.30-3.30pm.

• 370 business in attendance • 3,000+ visitors expected.

NEW FOR 2018 - The Biscuit Marketplace which features independent retailers from the Peterborough and Stamford area.

Given there is a significant resource cost associated with attending any exhibition or trade show what can businesses do to maximise their return on investment? In this practical session, delivered by Caroline Robinson of Sandler Training, we will share best practice on critical steps that your business can take before, during and after the event to get a meaningful result from these types of events.

Who is it for?

Members of your team who can influence the success of the exhibition: • Directors • Marketing • Sales • People manning your stand.

Also presenting will be Borney offering advice on how to make your banner stand out from the crowd, as well as Vibrant Colour advising on the latest trends of promotional material and making them beneficial to your company.

Please visit the Chamber website for full details of Chamber events. www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk connected February 2018 47

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