Chamber Profile Magazine Winter 2023 by Cornerstone Vision

NEWS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF DEVON & PLYMOUTH CHAMBERMEMBER OF COMMERCE FREE TO MEMBERS

Winter 2023

Produced in partnership with Diversity Business Incubator

THE GREATEST SHOW IN DEVON Region’s businesses feel the buzz at 2023 Devon Business Show PAGES 16-21

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE AND DIVERSITY Recognising outstanding achievements in Plymouth’s BAME business community PAGES 8-10

NEWS: Introducing our brand new Chamber President

PATRONS: Welcoming Retain Limited and Livewell Southwest

PICTURES: From all our Chamber and member events

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FIRST WORD

CONTENTS

CHAMBER PROFILE Winter 2023

MEMBER NEWS 5 6

COVER STORY Recognising outstanding achievements in Plymouth’s BAME business community. SEE PAGES 8-10

Stuart Elford shines the spotight on DBI and the Devon Business Show Celebrating 45 years of the Suzanne Sparrow Plymouth Language School Plymouth Science Park secures £500k for state-of-the-art dream project

CHAMBER NEWS 6

Devon & Plymouth Chamber Chair receives his MBE at Windsor Castle 7 A warm welcome to our two new Devon & Plymouth Chamber Patrons 11 HM Lord-Lieutenant appointed new Devon & Plymouth Chamber President 36-41 Pictures from this quarter’s Devon & Plymouth Chamber and member events 43 A warm welcome to all our new Devon & Plymouth Chamber members

SECTOR FOCUS 22 LEGAL

FOCUS FEATURES THE GREATEST SHOW IN DEVON 16-21

Region’s businesses feel the buzz at 2023 Devon Business Show

SPOTLIGHT ON NORTH DEVON 12-14

A thriving business community and a global hotspot for growth and success

SOCIETREE LAUNCH 36-37

Pledge to plant 96 ‘microforests’ at Plymouth schools and education providers

GA Solicitors celebrates record-breaking year with investment rollout 23 RETAIL The Barcode in Plymouth is the inspired place to plan your Christmas 24 HEALTH Simpila working to create happier and mentally healthier workspaces 25 WELLBEING Tackling workforce challenges in healthcare for a brighter future 26 EDUCATION Realising the benefits of social research within your organisation 28 INTERNATIONAL TRADE Specialist on course for record year of growth 29 EDUCATION Refining post-16 education: A vision for bold reform 30 DIGITAL Expert advice for keeping your business and your data safe 31 DIGITAL Award-winning performance marketing and digital transformation 32 TRAVEL Realising an ambition to deliver a greater South West for everyone 33 FINANCIAL The apprenticeship pathway to growth with Bishop Fleming 34 MANUFACTURING Mitigating impact of marine cargo delays and cost fluctuations 35 MARINE Babcock’s Devonport site welcomes more than 250 new recruits

CHAMBER PEOPLE 43 Thomas Roberts, Corporate Manager at Westcotts and Chamber Director

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

FIRST WORD

FIRST WORD THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF DEVON AND PLYMOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CONTACT DETAILS Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Unit 5 Derriford Business Park, Brest Road, Plymouth, Devon PL6 5QZ T: 01752 220471 E: chamber@devonchamber.co.uk W: www.devonchamber.co.uk News and articles should be sent to: E: marketing@devonchamber.co.uk Front cover: Recognising outstanding achievements in Plymouth’s BAME business community. See pages 8-10. Photo Credit: James Reader Published by Cornerstone Vision Ltd 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY T: 01752 225623 W: www.cornerstonevision.com Managing Editor Ian Pilkington Designer Louis Chadwick Advertising David Simpson E: dave@cornerstonevision.com Printed by PDS Print W: www.pdsprint.co.uk PRIVACY NOTICE Cornerstone Vision Ltd process personal information for certain legitimate interest purposes, which includes the following: • To provide postal copies of this publication to Chamber member and Cornerstone Vision Ltd customers; and • To offer marketing and promotional opportunities within this publication to Chamber members an prospects. Whenever we process data for these purposes, we always ensure we treat your Personal Data rights in high regard. Chamber Profile is produced on behalf of Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce by Cornerstone Vision Ltd and is distributed without charge to key businesses and all Chamber members in Devon. The publisher is committed to achieving the highest quality standard. However, views expressed in the magazine are independent and while every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise. The publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without the prior written permission of Cornerstone Vision Ltd.

SOCIAL MEDIA Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/@chamber_devon Like us on Facebook Devon Chamber of Commerce Join us on LinkedIn Devon Chamber of Commerce

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

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We’re thrilled to be partnering with Diversity Business Incubator (DBI) for this edition of Profile to shout about the truly unmissable Grand BAME Business Gala. Over the past six years, the Gala has established itself as one of Plymouth’s most successful business events and has become a cornerstone for a vibrant, talented and diverse community of entrepreneurs and businesses and nominations are open now! Founded by Devon & Plymouth Chamber Director, Jabo Butera and David Feindouno, it is a testament to the resilience, innovation, and community spirit that define the city’s Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) business community. Read on to find out more about the Gala on 2 February and all the incredible things DBI are doing here in Plymouth and beyond. The Chamber has been making tangible changes to its own approach to equality, diversity and inclusion alongside our members. In this edition of Profile, City College Plymouth details the changes it has been making, including the formation of a committee dedicated to upholding these core education values. Our Chamber team is also working hard on a more involved and interactive events programme for 2024 which promotes diversity and inclusivity, as well as showing off everything our wonderful region has to offer. We’ll be offering you exciting networking opportunities right across the county, from Plymouth in the south all the way up to North Devon, where you’ll find a thriving community of global businesses. In this Profile, we look at why an increasing number of firms are recognising North Devon as a hotspot for growth and success - and why it appears lots more organisations and entrepreneurs want in on the act.

CHAMBER PATRONS

Next, I want to say a special thank you to everyone who joined us at Plymouth Pavilions in October for the Devon Business Show - and what an incredible event it was with more than 1,000 visitors and exhibitors in attendance. None of it would have been possible without our amazing partners - including our headliners, City College Plymouth, YGS Landscapes Ltd and Wildanet - not to mention our dedicated Chamber team who made sure everything on the day ran smoothly and like clockwork. This edition features our favourite pics from an unforgettable event, and I’m thrilled to say that we’ve already opened bookings for 2024 at a great new venue - Plymouth Life Centre. This winter marks the 210th anniversary of the Devon & Plymouth Chamber - and I’m delighted to announce that two of our most well-respected members and collaborators, Retain Limited and Livewell Southwest, have stepped up to become Patrons. We have also welcomed on board a new president in David Fursdon, who shares our vision of “looking forward to seeing the Chamber flourish”. David is an incredibly well-known figure in Devon and throughout the local business community, taking into account his 40 years in the county, his tireless work for local charities and organisations, and his current role as His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Devon. Finally, I’d like to congratulate Suzanne Sparrow on her Plymouth Language School celebrating its 45th anniversary this year. Her endless list of achievements is even more incredible when you consider that she has just celebrated her 99th birthday! Well done, Suzanne!

STUART ELFORD CHIEF EXECUTIVE, DEVON & PLYMOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

”

MEMBER NEWS

NEWS FOR & FROM MEMBERS OF DEVON AND PLYMOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CELEBRATING 45 YEARS OF THE SUZANNE SPARROW PLYMOUTH LANGUAGE SCHOOL Suzanne Sparrow is undoubtedly one of the region’s most influential business figures - and this year her Plymouth Language School celebrates its 45th anniversary. We visited the former Devon & Plymouth Chamber Chair at her beautiful South Hams home to find out more about how her vision came to fruition and how the business has continued to thrive.

There are few people who know more about running a successful business than Suzanne Sparrow. This year, her Suzanne Sparrow Plymouth Language School celebrates its 45th anniversary. Even with the ill effects of Brexit, COVID and the war in Ukraine, the business continues to thrive and welcome new students of all nationalities to Britain’s Ocean City. Suzanne admits it’s been an extraordinary journey and one she “wouldn’t wish businesses to go through”. Born and bred in Plymouth, Suzanne attended Plymouth High School for Girls, before joining the Royal Navy at the age of 17 and following in her father’s footsteps. She even survived her home being blitzed in 1941. After being released from service at the end of World War II, Suzanne worked in various jobs - including being secretary at the Marine Research Laboratory at Newton Ferrers. During her time there, she met many visitors from overseas, some of whom had limited spoken English. She says: “At home we also had young overseas students staying with the family to help improve their English, and it was through this I realised that Plymouth did not have a professional language school. “I had developed a great interest in the English language and, as my children were growing up, I kept myself active with typing, editing and books and that sort of thing. “Eventually I was asked

if I’d organise a group from Switzerland who were, I think, doing a kind of study of the pubs in Plymouth. “I thought there must be people needing the English language having a ghastly time learning and not realising how the language does connect with a life and the way you use it. So I thought, ‘Well, I have no idea how to start a language school, but I’ll do it’. “We started by hiring premises and the Chamber of Commerce was then in Looe Street. It was a wonderful place for the elderly members of the Chamber of Commerce to go to work. I had premises in the Plymouth Art Centre, as it was then, and when I had larger groups, we used Prysten House and places like that.” Suzanne and her business joined Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce in 1979 at a time where attitudes to women in business were not what they are today. And it’s testament to her incredible character that in 1988, she became Chair of the Chamber. Suzanne recalls: “When I started at the Chamber, it really was an old-boy network. The HQ in Looe Street had this wonderful pub near it, which the ‘old boys’ often frequented. “Of course, being a female and not having a business background, some were actually rude to me and some wouldn’t even speak to me, despite the fact that I’d been in the Navy and I was doing a man’s job anyway! “Time turned a bit on them

because in 1988, there was a naval secretary there who said, ‘Do you know, I don’t know who we’re going to have as chairman, I can’t think’. Then he looked at me and said, ‘What about you?’. So I said, ‘Oh, I’ll have a bash’.” The following year, Suzanne co-organised a visit to Brussels and Strasbourg to discover more about the EU and its workings. This led to the Chamber opening up an international section which Suzanne ran for more than a decade. with a group from the Chamber which had never happened before. Suzanne had founded the Suzanne Sparrow Plymouth Language School In 1978. Her continued passion, determination and dedication to language is undoubtedly one of the main reasons for the School’s longevity. Even more incredible when you consider that she has just celebrated her 99th birthday on 23 November. In recent years, understandably Suzanne has passed over the day-to-day running of the North Road-based school to her daughter, Hilary Desvernay, who is now principal. But she admits that she “doesn’t know the word ‘retirement’,” and still maintains a hands-on role from her home in the South Hams. One of Suzanne’s proudest moments came in 2009 when she was awarded a Doctorate by the University of Plymouth for her contribution to education.

In 2016, she also won the 2016 Lifetime Achievement honour at the Plymouth Business Awards, given to the businessman or woman who has made a considerable, profitable and lasting contribution to business in the city. Suzanne is proud of her Plymouth roots, and is equally proud of what her School has achieved in the last 45 years. “I cannot say I’m putting my feet up because I am still fairly active,” she says. “And I’m very pleased when people turn up at the school, particularly those who have been before or who are now sending their children and, of course, grandchildren as well. So it’s of great interest still. “I will always love the fact that people are so nice and so kind in Plymouth. There are many, many very kind and helpful families and this is what has maintained the School. “It has also benefited the economy of Plymouth enormously in the past, and I think we have brought more than £40 million into the local economy over the years. “I think we’ve done our part in selling Plymouth as a brilliant city to come to.”

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

MEMBER NEWS

PLYMOUTH SCIENCE PARK SECURES £500K FOR STATE-OF-THE-ART DREAM PROJECT Plymouth Science Park has been awarded £507,000 for a new digital engineering test facility, to complement its Advanced Digital Manufacturing Innovation Centre. The funding has been allocated by the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), from the £8m Digital Investment Programme. The DREAM (Digital Reverse Engineering And Metallurgy) project will offer businesses a digital engineering test facility for reverse engineering, design, manufacturing and validation of additive manufactured prototypes and products. Ian McFadzen, CEO at Plymouth Science Park, said: “We are thrilled to have secured this substantial funding, a testament to the Park’s commitment to innovation. DREAM will support modern production methods and pioneering technologies, helping to expand our offer to additive manufacturing and engineering companies in the South West and beyond.” The project is being developed in response to companies outlining their need for local digital engineering test beds, to underpin new production methods empowered by digital technologies. Having access to state-of-the-art reverse engineering, design, inspection and validation technologies will support the creation of regional jobs, develop skill sets, and improve productivity and throughput of the manufacturing base, whilst strengthening supply chain resilience. Karl Tucker, Chair of the Heart of the South West LEP, said: “We are proud to support

Plymouth Science Park’s visionary DREAM project. The test facility aligns with our mission to drive regional innovation, and is a testament to our region’s potential in shaping the future of engineering.” Procurement of the equipment is underway and should be installed in spring 2024. To find out more about Plymouth Science Park, visit www,plymouthsciencepark.com. To find out more about the Heart of the South West LEP, visit www.heartofswlep.co.uk.

CHAMBER CHAIR RECEIVES HIS MBE AT WINDSOR CASTLE An incredibly proud moment for our Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Chair, Richard Stevens, who travelled to Windsor Castle in September to receive his hugely deserved MBE. The Plymouth Citybus MD was named in the New Year Honours back in January and said at the time: “I believe businesses should be at the heart of our communities as great partners. My huge thanks to the Go Ahead Group for enabling me through their commitment to empower local management to achieve this award, I am both proud and humbled.” Everyone at the Chamber is extremely proud of our Chair and the work that he has done for business in the region - congratulations, Richard!

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

Westcotts announces new sponsorship of Plymouth Argyle Westcotts has announced its sponsorship of Plymouth Argyle for the 2023/24 season, representing the firm’s largest sponsorship to date. This partnership marks an exciting new chapter in the journey of the Plymouth office, with colleagues continuing to build relationships with the community. In September, Adam Croney, alongside other Westcotts colleagues, enjoyed watching the team win 3-0 against Blackburn Rovers. Adam Croney, Partner at Westcotts’ Plymouth office, said: “We’re extremely excited to be supporting Plymouth Argyle this year, who are a fixture of the local community. “The club reflects some of the best that Plymouth has to offer, from their outstanding players to the club’s charitable work through Argyle Community Trust. They make a positive difference to the Devon and Cornwall communities through the power of sport. “Westcotts has been embedded in the city for many years and we also value the important role that Plymouth plays in the South West. We’re looking forward to watching the club, and the city, continue to thrive.”

MEMBER NEWS

A WARM WELCOME TO OUR TWO NEW DEVON & PLYMOUTH CHAMBER PATRONS

Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce that two of our most well-respected members and collaborators have stepped up to become Patrons. Retain Limited and Livewell Southwest have both accepted patronage at a hugely exciting time for our organisation. This winter marks the 210th anniversary of the Chamber – two centuries of proudly supporting the region’s businesses. So much of that longevity and success is thanks to our patrons, who represent some of the bestknown and respected names in the local business community. Retain Limited is a wellestablished, award-winning three-in-one contractor for industrial and commercial roofing, scaffolding installation, safety netting and access solutions, and roof-mounted solar PV design and fixtures. The group of companies found a unique space in the market to offer clients a structured approach by eliminating the need for multiple contractors and streamlining the process by being a one-point, trusted contact for clients. This

approach both builds a strong client-contractor relationship and clear communication between project site workers. Retain Limited group of companies holds multiple awards and certifications, including,

unique opportunity for us to grow our local and regional visibility and become further connected throughout the southwest of the country. “The patronage also offers us many opportunities to support the Devon and Plymouth business community with our unique and award-winning three-in-one services within the construction and renewable energy sectors.” Our other new Patron is Livewell Southwest, a social enterprise that provides integrated physical and mental health and social care services, serving a population of around 270,000 across South Hams, West Devon and Plymouth. They are also responsible for delivering specialist services to people living in parts of Cornwall and Devon. Founded in 2011, Livewell Southwest works alongside colleagues from local NHS hospitals and services to deliver expert care to a range of communities, including community nursing; services for people with learning disabilities; physiotherapy; community mental health services; social work; wellbeing and health improvement services; services for children and young people and community pharmacies. Livewell Southwest employs more than 3,000 members of staff who champion their commitment to providing outstanding care. Geoff Baines, Livewell Southwest’s Deputy Chief

“THIS PATRONAGE PRESENTS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR US TO GROW OUR LOCAL AND REGIONAL VISIBILITY AND BECOME FURTHER CONNECTED THROUGHOUT THE SOUTHWEST OF THE COUNTRY.” but not limited to their CITB accreditation, National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Gold Award for Health and Safety for six years in a row, and they are approved Gold members of Constructionline. Jamie Gibbs, Retain’s Founder and Director, commented: “The Retain Limited team and I are very excited to become a Patron of the Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce. “This patronage presents a

Executive, Director of Safety and Quality, said: “This is an incredible opportunity for us to collaborate

with some of the most renowned and esteemed names in our local business community. “Becoming Patrons enables us to play an active role in all business endeavours and issues spanning Plymouth, Devon, and the broader Southwest region. This move strategically aligns with our vision, and together, we can contribute to shaping health and wellbeing benefits from economic growth within the city”. Patrons of the Chamber are some of the best-known and respected names in the business community. They are woven into the Chamber’s extensive lobbying activities and become one of the region’s principal voices. Chamber Chief Executive, Stuart Elford said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome not one, but two new Patrons to our Chamber family. “Retain Ltd and Livewell Southwest are both hugely successful and influential organisations here in the South West. “Through their support for the Chamber, our patrons demonstrate their commitment to the development of the economy and business throughout Devon and Plymouth. “Our patrons will take centre stage as we look ahead to our packed events programme for the rest of 2023 and beyond. And we’re also counting down to this year’s Devon Business Show, which promises to be a true celebration of our region’s thriving business community. “Our Patrons play a unique role in developing the future of our region, and the Chamber is far stronger with the support and Patronage of Retain Ltd and Livewell Southwest.”

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER FOCUS: DBI Awards

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE AND DIVERSITY The Grand BAME Business Gala and Nominations

Recognizing Outstanding Achievements in Plymouth's BAME Business Community In the heart of Plymouth, a vibrant and diverse community of entrepreneurs and businesses thrives. Amongst these talented individuals and organisations, there is an annual event that stands as a shining beacon of celebration and recognition—the Grand BAME Business Gala. For the past six years, this gala has been a cornerstone of the community, and in 2024, it promises to be bigger and better than ever. Founded by Jabo Butera and David Feindouno, the Grand BAME Business Gala is not just an event; it’s a testament to the resilience, innovation, and community spirit that define the Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) business community in Plymouth and its surrounding areas. This gala continues to play a crucial role in recognising and honouring exceptional achievements within the BAME business community.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

The Grand BAME Business Gala is of paramount importance as it serves as a shining beacon of recognition, celebration, and unity within the vibrant BAME business community in Plymouth. This annual event not only honours the exceptional achievements of individuals and organisations but also underscores the significance of diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. In a world where diversity is a wellspring of innovation and resilience, the Gala provides a platform to showcase the remarkable contributions of the BAME community. It reinforces the idea that every voice, every talent, and every entrepreneurial spirit matters. Furthermore, the Gala inspires and empowers future generations by highlighting the stories of trailblazers and champions who have overcome challenges and made

a positive impact. It fosters a sense of belonging and unity, reminding us that when we come together to celebrate excellence and diversity, we create a stronger, more vibrant, and more inclusive community for all. The Nominations: Celebrating Excellence At the heart of the Grand BAME Business Gala are the nominations—a call to recognise and celebrate individuals and businesses that have made a significant impact on the community. Nominations for the 2024 gala are now open, inviting everyone to participate and acknowledge the champions who have made a difference in Plymouth. Nominations are open in multiple categories, each designed to highlight different aspects of achievement and contribution within the BAME community.

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provide an opportunity for individuals and businesses to shine a spotlight on those who have positively impacted their lives and the community at large. The nomination process is simple and open to everyone who wishes to participate in this celebration of excellence and diversity. To nominate your champion in Plymouth, follow this QR code:

The 2024 Grand BAME Business Gala: A Night of Inspiration. The culmination of these nominations will be the 2024 Grand BAME Business Gala, set to take place on Friday, February 2nd, 2024, at Plymouth Pavilions from 6 pm till late. This event promises to be a night filled with inspiration, celebration, and recognition. Booking link:

Imagine a room filled with the energy and passion of entrepreneurs, community leaders, and visionaries, all coming together to celebrate the achievements of the BAME business community. The gala will showcase the resilience, innovation, and dedication of individuals and organisations that are making a real difference in Plymouth and its surrounding areas. The gala isn’t just about handing out awards; it’s about creating a sense of unity, community, and shared purpose. It’s about highlighting the positive impact that diversity and inclusion can have on the business world and society as a whole. Supporting Empowerment and Growth The Grand BAME Business Gala isn’t just a one-night event; it’s a testament to the ongoing commitment of individuals

like Jabo Butera and David Feindouno, who founded the gala to support and empower the BAME business community in Plymouth. Through the awards and nominations process, the gala encourages individuals and organisations to continue their work, knowing that their efforts are appreciated and recognised. It inspires others to join the movement for diversity, equality, and empowerment. In the face of challenges, the BAME community in Plymouth remains resilient, innovative, and dedicated to making a positive impact. The Grand BAME Business Gala serves as a platform to shine a spotlight on these qualities and to celebrate the individuals and businesses that embody them. Get Involved: Nominate Your Champions As nominations for the 2024 Grand BAME Business Gala are now open, we encourage everyone to get involved. Take a moment to think about the individuals and businesses that have inspired you, made a difference in your community, or demonstrated exceptional resilience and innovation. Nominate them using the provided QR code. Be part of a celebration that showcases the excellence and diversity of Plymouth’s BAME business community. In 2024, let’s come together at Plymouth Pavilions to celebrate these champions, their stories, and their commitment to making a positive impact. The Grand BAME Business Gala is not just an event; it’s a testament to the power of unity, inspiration, and community.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER FOCUS: DBI Awards

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Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

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MEMBER NEWS

HM LORD-LIEUTENANT APPOINTED NEW DEVON & PLYMOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT Devon & Plymouth Chamber David chaired the Country Lord-Lieutenant of Devon in April Plymouth Chamber. of Commerce is delighted to Land and Business Association 2015. “David is an incredibly wellwelcome a new president who is (CLA), firstly in Devon and then David said: “I am delighted known figure in Devon and “looking forward to working with nationally as President during to have been asked to become throughout the local business the organisation and seeing it a turbulent time through foot President of Devon & Plymouth community, taking into account flourish”. and mouth disease. After this Chamber of Commerce. his 40 years in the county, his David Fursdon is His Majesty’s he became a Commissioner of “The Chamber is fortunate to tireless work for local charities Lord-Lieutenant of Devon and has the Crown Estate, dealing with have so many innovative and and organisations, and his current lived in the county for role as His Majesty’s “THE CHAMBER IS FORTUNATE TO HAVE SO MANY more than 45 years. Lord-Lieutenant of INNOVATIVE AND IMAGINATIVE BUSINESSES ALONGSIDE He has served in a Devon. OTHER WELL-ESTABLISHED AND SUCCESSFUL number of high“Everything we do ORGANISATIONS WHO APPRECIATE THE HELP AND SUPPORT is aimed at building profile public roles THAT THEY CAN ACCESS THROUGH MEMBERSHIP.” in the South West a bigger and better and beyond, as well Chamber for all our rural and commercial property imaginative businesses alongside as running several successful members and having a true portfolios and renewable energy other well-established and businesses in tourism, property, champion of Devon like David as and then also of English Heritage successful organisations who agriculture and consultancy. our president can only make us (chairing the business committee appreciate the help and support As well as being an experienced during the re-development of the stronger. that they can access through first-class cricketer back in the “These are certainly exciting visitor centre at Stonehenge). membership. day, David also proudly served in times for our organisation, and we After serving on the Board of “I look forward to working with the military for a number of years. have also just welcomed on board the SWRDA, David chaired the the Chamber in what are choppy David’s appointment as two new patrons. The future of London 2012 South-west Board economic waters and seeing it president marks the 210th Devon business certainly looks before and during the Olympics. flourish.” anniversary of the Devon & bright.” More recently, he chaired the Devon & Plymouth Chamber Plymouth Chamber - over two Government’s ‘Future of Farming’ of Commerce CEO, Stuart Elford centuries of proudly supporting review (to bring more new added: “We are delighted to the region’s businesses. entrants into agriculture), DEFRA’s welcome David Fursdon on board Led by its diverse board of SW Rural and Farming Network as president of the Devon & directors, the Chamber has and was on the Board of Historic hundreds of members who have Houses at the National Trust. access to numerous business He currently chairs both Sir benefits, including a packed James Dyson’s farming company events programme for the rest of and the Institute of Agriculture 2023 and beyond. and Horticulture. He is also a David was educated at St trustee of the Royal Countryside John’s College, Oxford, where Fund and a Commissioner and he was a scholar and cricket trustee of the Food, Farming and blue. He then worked in the MoD Countryside Commission. (arms control and disarmament in David has supported the Whitehall and at the UN Geneva) NSPCC (chairing the Devon Full before moving in 1978 with his Stop Appeal) and affordable wife to Devon, where his family housing initiatives (serving on has lived for many years. He is the Affordable Rural Housing married with three children and Commission and Rural Housing four grandchildren. Policy Group). He has run his own He taught at Blundell’s School businesses in tourism, property, in Tiverton where he was later agriculture and consultancy. to Chair the Governors (2000David was High Sheriff of Devon 2011). He then worked as a rural in 2009, and was appointed HM Chartered Surveyor in Exeter.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER FOCUS: NORTH DEVON

NORTH DEVON A GLOBAL HOTSPOT FOR BUSINESS GROWTH AND SUCCESS North Devon is home to a thriving community of global businesses, and it appears lots more organisations and entrepreneurs want in on the act.

North Devon is fast establishing itself One of the companies taking a significant we have like the Enterprise Hub, the more as a unique and dynamic hub for business amount of the new space is the digital direct opportunity we will have to get this talent opportunities. mail platform, Stannp.com, which operates together and do some incredible things.” From Chulmleigh in the south to Ilfracombe across the UK, US and Canada and now bases Positive feedback like that from such a on the coast, an increasing number of firms itself out of Node. well-known worldwide organisation is proof are recognising this region as a hotspot for Sam Heaton, Growth Director at Stannp. that North Devon should not be overlooked growth and success - nowhere more so than com, said, “As a tech-first company, we were as a thriving hub for business. Barnstaple. looking for somewhere modern that had a This project has certainly helped showcase The area’s largest town is home to a real energy and a feel of innovation about Barnstaple and North Devon’s impressive thriving community of innovative local talent pool, and all the businesses and entrepreneurs, and members, community and it appears lots more want in on stakeholders should feel very the act. proud to be involved. Since opening its doors to Another North Devon village members in October 2021, putting itself firmly on the map the Node Cowork hub has is Appledore, where the the experienced unprecedented Department for Levelling Up, demand from businesses across Housing and Communities has Cllr Rufus Gilbert (Devon County Council), Julian Dymond (Node the globe. this year announced £15.6 million General Manager) and Sam Heaton (Stannp.com) The Roundswell business hub of funding from the Levelling Up quickly surpassed 50 members in its coworking space, and saw its other offices reach capacity, prompting the need for expansion. Just four months after launching its ambitious £2.1m extension in May 2023, the extra 5,780 sq ft of new office space has reached capacity - truly showing the growing demand for modern workspace in North Devon.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

it. Node exceeded our expectations – it’s so refreshing to be around other like-minded companies, not just socially but in the collaborative opportunities that come with the sharing of local knowledge and ideas. “Despite working across the UK and the US, we’ve never wanted to leave North Devon – the access to talent here often gets overlooked, and I feel that the more spaces

Fund for the Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre. Expected to open in 2025, the worldleading centre will research green technology and work with local universities and private companies to bring investment and directly create nearly 100 highly-skilled jobs. It will feature cutting-edge research and industry partnerships from the Centre for Future Clean Mobility (CFCM, University

CHAMBER FOCUS: NORTH DEVON of Exeter) and the University of Plymouth scrap the extension of HS2 from the West and Tavistock, would support an hourly offshore renewable and maritime autonomy Midlands to Manchester. Tavistock-to-Plymouth service and stopping specialisms. Although full details of funding and and increasing frequency at Bere Alston, The complex will also Bere Ferrers and “ALL OF THESE HIGHER-SKILLED AND HIGHER-PAID several west Plymouth incorporate a range ROLES WILL STIMULATE A GREATER SPENDING of offices and flexibly stations in combination POWER IN THE COMMUNITY AND FOLLOW-ON PRIVATE with the existing designed workshops to INVESTMENT, INCLUDING IN LOCAL TOWN CENTRES two-hourly service support businesses to AND EMPLOYMENT INFRASTRUCTURE.” innovate. between Plymouth and A report submitted by Gunnislake. Torridge District Council in July 2023 said: “All timescales are yet to be unveiled, the Cllr Debo Sellis, County Councillor for Government has confirmed that it, “will of these higher-skilled and higher-paid roles Tavistock, said: “I would like to thank Cllr deliver rail improvements in the South West”. will stimulate a greater spending power in the Andrea Davis, County Council officers and The announcement includes Devon County community and follow-on private investment, local MP Sir Geoffrey Cox who have listened Council’s project to reinstate five miles of including in local town centres and to residents’ concerns that I’ve shared with employment infrastructure. them. They’ve been tenacious “Crucially, the centre will in backing the reinstatement provide new inspiration and of the Tavistock-to-Plymouth a visible indication of the line and we look forward potential to truly succeed in to improvements for future Torridge and across northern generations. Devon, boosting education “This is a step in the right and addressing long-term, direction and it’s great that engrained deprivation and Westminster is supporting Former Tavistock to Plymouth rail to be reinstated truly embodying the levellingthe Tavistock-to-Plymouth rail up agenda.” line. People want to see better track and deliver a new single platform More good news for North Devon comes in connectivity, particularly young people, and station at Tavistock, which would serve the Government’s announcement to re-direct it’s positive to see investment in the South investment in rail infrastructure improvements communities in Tavistock, Horrabridge, West.” Lamerton, and Mary Tavy. across the country, following the decision to Reopening the line between Bere Alston

CELEBRATING THE VERY BEST OF NORTH DEVON BUSINESS The Business Boost Expo (BBxpo) returned to Bideford College in October 2023 to showcase the very best of North Devon business. It was inspiring to see such a mix of fantastic organisations and entrepreneurs out in force for what has become North Devon’s largest independent annual business exhibition. More than 40 exhibitors and hundreds of visitors met at Devon Hall to network, collaborate and learn more about our county’s range of goods, services, business support, funding and training providers. On the day, Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce hosted its Chamber Connect event

as part of BBxpo, offering the opportunity to get to know the team on a more personal level and develop an understanding of just how the Chamber’s many benefits can help your business. Congratulations to Robert Zarywacz and the Business Action team for putting on such an incredible event. They will also be launching BBxpo in Ilfracombe on Tuesday 6 March 2024. More details of that will follow shortly.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER FOCUS: NORTH DEVON

QUALITY SIGNAGE AND RESPONSIBLE MANUFACTURING Catching Up With Business Action’s ‘North Devon Business Of The Year’: The Sign Maker

Established business, The Sign Maker, strives to make a mark with quality signmaking and responsible manufacturing. Honouring traditional crafting techniques is a trademark of the business - one that has seen growth through every season. Onsite, The Sign Maker craft an impressive range of high-end business signage, alongside bespoke house signs and memorials. Each sign is made to order, so no two days in the workshop ever look the same. From natural and painted wooden signs

to signboards and commemorative plaques, the team approach each sign with expertise and creativity - resulting in oneof-a-kind signage. The team recently rose to the challenge of crafting a large number of signature entrance signs for a showground; their client was delighted, and described working with The Sign Maker as ‘a pleasure’. 2023 has been a year to remember. From

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solar panel installation (completing their three-strand green energy structure) to announcing the signing of a daughter company, WheelCover. com (specialising in the manufacture of wheel covers for 4x4 vehicles) directing duo, Kate and Shaun Price, are proud to see the business go from strength to strength.

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Apply ISO systems to boost your bottom line Delivering excellent quality of service is vital for any company. It is a major factor in customer retention and provides the basis by which any company can grow. Working with a variety of clients over the years we have come across a range of issues which can be all too common in counteracting this. From quality problems which keep recurring and lead to losing customers, senior management teams having poor awareness of business management systems and even poor-quality performance due to not totally understanding the requirements of a particular client there are many things which can significantly impact business performance.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

Companies have told us they struggle to prepare for surveillance audits, they have employees who are confused about their roles and responsibilities and they need to implement certified business management systems in order sell their products and services. Ignoring these issues isn’t an option and could be catastrophic for the future of a company. If any of these issues sound familiar then we can help. Our continually updated service offerings include: 1. Design, installation, maintenance and improvement of various standalone and integrated ISO business management systems.

2. Closed loop management of internal audit process of business management systems. 3. Closed loop management of new or established supplier audit systems. 4. Delivery of quality, environmental, occupational health and safety and energy business management system/process trainings and improvements. 5. Quality, environmental, occupational health and safety and energy performance improvement of internal business processes. We offer a 2 hour long consultation free of charge in order to showcase our services or complete a gap analysis for you. To find out more visit www.improvedwayslimited.co.uk

CHAMBER FOCUS: EEDI

CITY COLLEGE PLYMOUTH SUPPORTS EEDI FOR OUR FUTURE WORKFORCE In May 2023, City College Plymouth reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to equity, equality, diversity and inclusion (EEDI) with the formation of a committee dedicated to upholding these core education values. Tasked with developing a positive cultural climate, the EEDI Committee works to ensure that all students and staff can flourish, contribute to the life and culture of the College, and reach their full potential. This approach not only benefits the morale of our extended College family, but fosters an approach which we hope those who study, work and train with us will carry forward into future employment. EEDI is not only morally good, it is - quite simply - good business sense. Recent business research published in the Harvard Business Review demonstrated that companies with above-average total diversity had both 19% higher innovation revenues and 9% higher EBIT (earnings before income and taxes) margins. In a global economy, it is organisations with diverse workforces who demonstrably exceed expectations. We recognise, however, that to weave EEDI values through every facet of our large and varied organisation requires dedicated commitment and action from everyone, at all levels, to foster a positive culture. City College is proud to serve students and staff who embody our diverse community, and this is reflected in the appointed committee members, who include stakeholders, lecturers, corporate support staff and students from across the College. Meeting monthly, the EEDI Committee promotes diverse representation within our College community to create an organisational culture that is both respectful and inclusive to all groups protected under the human rights act. They support and provide information to our colleagues and students, as well as acting as a point of contact, or safe space, for anyone wishing to raise issues concerning LGBTQIA+, gender, disability, racial or other inequalities. Each meeting addresses the areas in which the College can continue to develop a culture of diversity, safeguarding and respect, as well as identifying barriers that may be detrimental to student and staff success. To achieve these goals, the committee is

initially focusing efforts on three areas within the College: estates, staff training, and an implementation of an open dialogue with students and staff within both curriculum and support services. Their hard work is already bearing fruit. Our Kings Road site has seen a number of changes in recent months to remove physical barriers on campus, including: relocating the multi-faith room to make it more accessible; increasing the number of gender neutral toilets across the campus; and creating quiet places on-site for students with special educational needs. City College has also launched a campus accessibility navigation app, the first UK college to do so. We have invested in British Sign Language (BSL) training for lecturers and an interactive ‘sign of the day’ activity for students. Through our ReciteMe accessibility software, our website is now more user-friendly for individuals with disabilities, situational challenges or who require English language support. Another facet of the College’s EEDI agenda is the Student Voice initiative which fosters open communication between students and staff. This group meets with the Chief Executive to discuss how EEDI affects the student body and how existing feedback channels could be improved. One example of this is the College’s efforts to source staff

training materials on the use of pronouns to support our trans and non-binary students. We are proud of our equality and diversity efforts. We see the benefits that positive change can have for both our students and their future employers. In the current climate, City College Plymouth feels that it is more important than ever to carry forward the values of equity, equality, diversity and inclusion. We know there is more work to do, and we’re listening.

Ben Manning Executive of Curriculum, Quality & Student Experience City College Plymouth

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER DEVON BUSINESS SHOW

REGION’S BUSINESSES FEEL THE BUZZ AT 2023 DEVON BUSINESS SHOW PICTURES FROM THE 2023 DEVON BUSINESS SHOW Photos By Jay Stone

Over a thousand people packed into Plymouth Pavilions to connect with more than 90 of the region’s leading businesses and entrepreneurs at the 2023 Devon Business Show. There was a real buzz in the room about the return of Devon’s biggest Business Show as firms of all sizes met and engaged with potential new clients, customers and suppliers to showcase their products and services. All 99 stands for this year’s Show sold out in record time, with exhibitors pulling out all the stops to make their displays as interesting, innovative and interactive as possible. The hugely popular event is organised by Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce around three themes – People, Planet and

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

Purpose – supported by headline partners City College Plymouth, YGS Landscapes Ltd and Wildanet as the respective ‘People and Skills’, ‘Planet’ and ‘Purpose’ partners. It is designed around six key zones that cover the region’s core sectors. A huge thanks to our Zone Partners: University of Exeter (Business Services); PL1 Events (Digital, Media & Technology); Plymouth Active Leisure (Retail, Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality Zone Partner); Sir Fix a Lock (Sustainability); Plymouth Marjon University (Education and Skills); and WH Scott & Son Engineers (Marine, Construction and Manufacturing). Before the Show we were joined by a number of exhibitors at Salumi Bar & Eatery for an epic networking session, not to mention a delicious breakfast, in partnership with The Plymouth Charter.

Then afterwards, we invited exhibitors to join us at Moxy Plymouth for what proved to be a perfect end to celebrate a brilliant day of networking with delicious pizzas and plenty of drinks. The Show offered a fantastic opportunity to hear from the region’s leading businesses and entrepreneurs - LIVE from the studio - with business knowledge, top tips and insights courtesy of Fresh Air Studios and supported by our official Podcast Partner Westcotts. Babcock International Group were our Show Hub Partner, Kaya Gallery our Show Lanyards Partner, and Inch Recycling Solutions our Virtual Goodie Bag Partner. We’re also grateful to our First Aid Partner, White Cross Training, whose Laurence and Sam kindly provided cover at Plymouth

CHAMBER DEVON BUSINESS SHOW

“What an incredible event and I want to thank everyone who came, including attendees, exhibitors and in particular our headline partners, City College Plymouth, YGS Landscapes, SocieTree and Wildanet.” Stuart Elford, Devon & Plymouth Chamber CEO

Pavilions free of charge. Thanks also to our Accommodation Partner, The Duke of Cornwall Hotel in Plymouth, who offered special overnight rates just for exhibitors and partners. Stuart Elford, Devon & Plymouth Chamber CEO, said: “We had the most fantastic day at Plymouth Pavilions for the Devon Business Show. “What an incredible event and I want to thank everyone who came, including attendees, exhibitors and in particular our three headline partners, City College Plymouth, YGS Landscapes and SocieTree, and Wildanet. “I want to say a special thank you to Paul Philpott and his team at Fresh Air Studios who were live-streaming podcasts from the stage - which are now available on Apple iTunes and Spotify.

“And also thank you to Paul Burton and his team from pbmedia who helped us with social media throughout the day. The spread across the channels has just been amazing. “I was particularly thrilled to be able to announce next year’s Show, which is on Wednesday 16 October, 2024, at a great new venue - Plymouth Life Centre. “Their sports hall is 40% bigger than the hall we were in at the Pavilions, and they’re going to open up all their facilities to attendees and exhibitors. So, there’ll be gyms, yoga, swimming, the climbing wall and much, much more. “We’re going to theme the show around people, about health and wellbeing, and we’ve got an area out the front where there’s an opportunity to showcase the motor industry. It’s going to be absolutely brilliant and you can register your interest as an

exhibitor now on our website. “I want to end by saying thank you again for attending what was an amazing Show, with such a positive buzz. I’m really, really thrilled and I’ve got to thank my team who did the most incredible job. I’m so proud of them.” The Devon Business Show will be back on Wednesday 16 October, 2024 with a fresh new format that will promote inclusivity and feature exciting, innovative and interactive displays. To secure your space for next year – and have your first pick of the stand locations at the Life Centre – visit our website and email our Devon & Plymouth Chamber team and register your interest. www.devonchamber.co.uk/devon-businessshow/

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER DEVON BUSINESS SHOW

PREPARING FOR LAUNCH AT THE DEVON BUSINESS SHOW We held an exclusive Devon Business Show launch event at The Duke of Cornwall Hotel in Plymouth in the build-up to the main event. Our Devon & Plymouth Chamber team was joined by our Show Partners to celebrate the return of Devon’s biggest business show to Plymouth Pavilions. As well as enjoying canapés and Prosecco, we also got to hear from our Headline Partners, City College Plymouth, YGS Landscapes Ltd and Wildanet and about some of the brilliant things to expect on the day which certainly ramped up the excitement even further. A huge thank you to all our exhibitors and, of course, our partners, without whom we wouldn’t be able to put on incredible events like this.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER DEVON BUSINESS SHOW

Our Partners People and Skills Headline Partner: City College Plymouth

Podcast Partner: Westcotts Chartered Accountants & Business

Planet Headline Partner: YGS Landscapes Ltd

Advisers

Purpose Headline Partner: Wildanet

Show Hub Partner: Babcock International Group

Business Services Zone Partner: University of Exeter

Virtual Goodie Bag Partner: IRS - Inch Recycling Solutions

Digital, Media & Technology Zone Partner: PL1 Events Limited

Show Lanyards Partner: Kaya Gallery

Retail, Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality Zone Partner: Plymouth

Show Bag Partner: University of Plymouth

Active Leisure

Accommodation Partner: The Duke of Cornwall Hotel

Sustainability Zone Partner: Sir Fix-a-lock Ltd

First Aid Partner: White Cross Training

Education and Skills Zone Partner: Plymouth Marjon University

Pre-Show Event Partner: Salumi Bar & Eatery

Marine, Construction and Manufacturing Zone Partner: WH

Post-Show Event Partner: Moxy Plymouth

Scott & Son Engineers

Drinks Partner: The Devon Coffee Company

Show Podcast Studio: Fresh Air Studios Ltd

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER DEVON BUSINESS SHOW

“I WANT TO END BY SAYING THANK YOU AGAIN FOR ATTENDING WHAT WAS AN AMAZING SHOW, WITH SUCH A POSITIVE BUZZ. I’M REALLY, REALLY THRILLED AND I’VE GOT TO THANK MY TEAM WHO DID THE MOST INCREDIBLE JOB. I’M SO PROUD OF THEM.”

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER DEVON BUSINESS SHOW

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF SHOW TIME AT MOXY PLYMOUTH

What a perfect end to a brilliant day of #networking at the Devon Business Show. We had a fantastic time at Moxy Plymouth celebrating the end of this year's event - with delicious pizzas and plenty of drinks. Incredible hospitality by our hosts, and lots of amazing conversations about a truly unforgettable event. Find out more about #MoxyPlymouth here: https://www.marriott.com/engb/hotels/nqypo-moxy-plymouth/overview/

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

GA SOLICITORS CELEBRATES RECORD-BREAKING YEAR WITH INVESTMENT ROLLOUT

Chamber patron, GA Solicitors, has been operating in Plymouth for more than 200 years. This year it is celebrating record growth with headcount, turnover and profit all at their highest ever levels. The firm, which is headquartered in Plymouth and has an office in Bath, has seen both turnover and profit increase by some margin in the last 12 months. The partners have therefore made a conscious decision to invest a substantial amount of this back into its staff, facilities and technology to ensure continuity of service levels, the provision of niche legal advice and to future-proof the business for further growth. Importantly for staff, the partners chose this year to provide a significant pay increase to every single employee to help alleviate the pressures of the current costof-living crisis. Every staff member saw a substantial pay rise, a move which increased salary overheads for GA by hundreds of thousands of pounds. A full IT overhaul is planned for 2024. This will see the replacement of all existing laptops across the firm, the introduction of modern handsfree headsets, and new software and programming across the board, including new cutting-edge cybercrime and ransomware software. In addition to its IT and staff, the firm is also planning to upgrade its heating and

University of Plymouth, with 13 members of staff being alumni of the popular university. This record-breaking year comes at a time of plentiful good news for the firm with it securing record rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners UK, being nominated for four national conveyancing awards, and also being reaccredited by Lexcel, the Law Society’s legal practice quality mark for client care, compliance and practice management. David Wallis, managing partner of GA Solicitors, said: “There is no doubting that the legal sector remains very competitive and, with regulations tightening and costs rising, firms must work hard to remain profitable, efficient, compliant and also effective. “At GA Solicitors we of course face all of these challenges, we are however very lucky to have a strong team of staff – both legal and administrative. Each person plays a key role in the organisation and ensures we offer not only top-level legal advice, but also an incredibly boiler systems to ensure it operates in a more high level of client service. It is this which has energy efficient manner. This decision follows been instrumental in our success and has seen an 18-month programme of tackling the us secure rankings in The Legal 500, Chambers firm’s environmental impact and looking to & Partners UK and Chambers & Partners High reduce its carbon footprint. David Wallis, the Net Worth, as well as an incredibly positive managing partner, has spoken at green events audit with Lexcel, once again securing our and provided supportive advice to other accreditation. organisations looking to make operational “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the changes and become more environmentally team and we all look forward to building on friendly. this success over the coming months.” GA Solicitors is actively recruiting for “THERE IS NO DOUBTING THAT seven more members of staff, including THE LEGAL SECTOR REMAINS a family practitioner, childcare lawyer, VERY COMPETITIVE AND, WITH property litigation lawyer, commercial REGULATIONS TIGHTENING property lawyer, residential property lawyer AND COSTS RISING, FIRMS and a contentious probate lawyer. MUST WORK HARD TO REMAIN If you would like to find out more about PROFITABLE, EFFICIENT, joining GA visit GAsolicitors.com or email COMPLIANT AND ALSO recruitment@GAsolicitors.com

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

EFFECTIVE.”

In the last few months, GA Solicitors has recruited nine people, bringing staff numbers up to 93 – its highest ever total. Still pushing for growth, the firm remains actively recruiting for a further seven vacancies as it continues to develop its services and build upon niche sector specialisms. Many of the firm’s staff have come through its links and strong relationship with the

SECTOR FOCUS: RETAIL

THE INSPIRED PLACE TO PLAN YOUR CHRISTMAS

From festive nights out to team celebrations, The Barcode mixes elegant dining with clever entertainment ideas Since opening four years ago, The Barcode’s acclaimed bars, restaurants and game spots have become the go-to choices for unmissable – and perfectly tailored – Christmas celebrations. Whether you want delicious canapés and sharing feasts, cocktails and craft beers at Cosy Club, Las Iguanas and indie favourite Brewdog or entertaining nights out at Boom Battle Bar, Paradise Island Adventure Golf and the newly arrived Spinners (or mix and match them), The Barcode is full of inspiration. Be the first to mix things up at the unforgettable Spinners where your team can go head to head over entertaining games of bowling, clayshot and darts with live DJs alongside welcome drinks packages (they have booths for parties of all sizes or you can hire the whole place for 150 people). They also serve up crowd-pleasing rustic Fior di Latte mozzarella and Napoli salami pizzas, loaded nachos,

buffalo wings and irresistible churros. For sitdown Christmas dinners, the opulent Cosy Club is mixing the traditional (pigs in blankets with after-dinner plates of British cheeses) with pan-fried salmon, slow-roasted pork belly and champagne packages. With twinkling lights, Zizzi has festive mocktails and cocktails (Tiramisu Martini anyone?), seasonal menus and decadent desserts while Las Iguanas brings a welcome change of pace to winter with spicy enchiladas, fillet-steak skewers and Bahian jackfruit curry. For laid-back nights out, book Brewdog’s tables and share their signature Hoppy Meals of burgers and fries; head to Boom Battle Bar for VR axe throwing and karaoke; see festive movies at Cineworld or lose yourselves in the ever-entertaining Paradise Island Adventure Golf. The Barcode is all about creating your very own Christmas with a bespoke twist. Merry Christmas one and all…

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

SECTOR FOCUS: HEALTH

SIMPILA MENTAL HEALTH We work with individuals, groups, and organisations to create happier and mentally healthier workspaces where everyone can thrive and achieve their ambitions. We provide training, consulting, and speakers to help raise awareness, education, and support for all Amazing Humans.

We focus on making things Simpila and we have one business KPI and that is to help more people. If you need to justify an invest in mental health training, consider the following: • 1 in 4 adults experience mental health issues each year • 61% of UK employees have experienced a

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

mental health issue due to work or where work was a contributing factor • The average cost of mental health to employers equates to £1,300 per employee • 1 in 5 people take a day off due to stress. Yet, 90% of these people cited a different reason for sickness • 1 in 6 workers will experience depression, anxiety or problems relating to stress at any one time • 72 million working days are lost every year, costing the UK economy £74-£99 billion • Presenteeism accounts for 2 times more losses than absences • 85% of managers feel that employee wellbeing is their responsibility Founded in 2016, Simpila is on a mission to help improve awareness, education, and support for the conversation of mental health across society. The company was founded following a personal crisis experienced by the founder Matt, using this to provide the power and passion to make sure we take better care of ourselves, and the support for others. We work with individuals, groups, and companies to improve the overall wellbeing of all. We don’t just cover mental health, we also

offer support programmes, menopause, and neurodiversity awareness workshops. Reach out if you are interested in creating a healthier, happier workplace with Simpila. training@simpila.com or visit our website www.simpila.com

SECTOR FOCUS: WELLBEING

TACKLING WORKFORCE CHALLENGES IN HEALTHCARE FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE By Livewell Southwest As a provider of integrated physical and mental health services, Livewell Southwest has a 2,000-strong workforce delivering care across Plymouth, South Hams, West Devon, and even some parts of Cornwall and Devon. Established in 2011 as a social enterprise, our focus is on achieving positive outcomes and creating social value for local communities. Our success is marked by our partnership working with health and social care providers across the sector to make accessing health and social care services simple. However, we are working in exceptionally challenging times. In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the challenge of sustaining a robust workforce has long been a pressing concern. Caring for an ageing population with increasingly complex health and social care needs requires a diverse workforce that represents the communities we serve. With high levels of vacancies across the sector there is a need to offer something more accessible to prospective employees in terms of pathways into the sector. Working in partnership with Plymouth’s health and social care providers, Livewell Southwest is addressing the workforce challenges facing NHS and CARE providers ahead of the coming Winter. This has given rise to a sector wide “recruitment fair”, bringing local health, social care, education, and training providers together to showcase a diverse range of opportunities. The primary objective is to provide the best experience for potential

employees by connecting them to a marketplace of prospective employers, and routes into health and care, starting from entrylevel courses to post-graduate programmes. This event, which has grown over time, is now a regular occurrence happening both in April and October. With each iteration, providers can gain a

to highlight roles and careers in health and care and showcase what a diverse, flexible, and exciting career opportunity the sector provides”. This event is a testament to its growing presence in the community, with over 600 at the most recent gathering in October, and more local organisations with a strong collective reach

Geoff Baines, Deputy CEO and Director of Safety and Quality for Livewell Southwest said: “While this is undoubtedly a significant challenge, our true strength lies in our collective unity. Joining forces to confront the workforce challenges facing our city not only presents an excellent opportunity to showcase our diverse range of opportunities,

better understanding of what our audiences want, help them make those connections and showcase the possibilities of roles they may not have previously explored. The goal is to open doors for both Plymouth residents and those considering Plymouth as their destination. David McAuley, Programme Director explains: “Developing a system wide recruitment event, across the health and care sector has enabled us to work with partners in targeting areas in the employment market that have historically had high levels of vacancies. It has also enabled us

expressing eagerness to participate. However, the event extends beyond numbers, it offers a valuable opportunity to shine a light on the important work of healthcare professionals in the city.

but demonstrates that fortifying our partnerships throughout the city, we are actively bolstering the foundation for the future of healthcare within our community”.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

SECTOR FOCUS: EDUCATION

REALISING THE BENEFITS OF SOCIAL RESEARCH WITHIN YOUR ORGANISATION – DO YOU REALLY HAVE A SOCIAL IMPACT? An insight by Rich Adams, Business Engagement Manager at University of Plymouth & SERIO Team Manager

In our ever-evolving world, understanding the impact our organisations make has never been more crucial, especially given the time, energy and investment made into ensuring our corporate social responsibility (CSR) or even core mission, is achieving real benefit for people. Based within the Research and Innovation department of the University of Plymouth, SERIO is a team offering specialist evaluation and research services both regionally and nationally. They work with public, private and third sector organisations, providing bespoke services tailored to their clients’ needs. A cornerstone of SERIO’s social and policy research is the pursuit of answers for the client around their impact. By analysing data through a human interaction and equity lens, SERIO can help your organisation understand the true social impact you are making and provide recommendations for improvement. The SERIO team is skilled in programme monitoring; ascertaining what works; gathering credible evidence bases to demonstrate the levels of success achieved; the provision of agile data to inform continuous improvement; articulating best practice; and carrying out return on investment analyses.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

Some examples… SERIO has successfully worked with a wide range of clients/funders over the years including more recently Exeter City Council, Pluss CIC, Livewell Southwest, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS, Power to Change, RECOOP, and Trevi. SERIO regularly work with public charities and third sector organisations who support our communities. One example of this is SERIO’s partnership with Pluss CIC in evaluating all five of their Building Better Opportunities programmes, funded by National Lottery; these aimed to engage and support disadvantaged adults who were out of work or most at risk of social exclusion back into, or towards employment, employability activity or learning in the longer term. The evaluation provided evidence to inform and shape future delivery; it focussed on ‘what works’, captured best practice case studies to complement the data, and produced a social return on investment to help inform future policy, investment and activity. SERIO also evaluated Pause Plymouth, which is part of a national model that works with women to provide an intensive programme that aims to give women the chance to pause and take control of their lives.

SERIO’s evaluation provided a qualitative insight of the experiences of the women receiving the support, the staff delivering the intervention, broader system engagement and impact of the project at a local level. “As we look to the future, the role of social research teams in public, private and third sectors will only become more critical. In an era of rapid technological advancements and societal change, their expertise will be instrumental in guiding us towards being more equitable and sustainable.” - Racheal Skelton, SERIO Research Manager Social research teams are being employed more and more often to independently validate or verify investment in time and revenue in commercial and non-commercial environments. Projects that are geared towards social inclusion, mobility and policy development all require an understanding of their true impact if we are to improve the levels of positive social benefits. As Donna Vascott the Research Manager within the SERIO team recently noted, “Unless we measure and understand the project from the Users’ perspective how will you ever know if you are generating any real social impact?” The role of social impact teams has long since extended beyond the confines of academia. The work leads to policy changes within Local Authorities and CSR investment decisions by industry. In particular, the business world can improve their products and services based on insights from teams like SERIO, leading to more positive staff recruitment and retention, value for money and impact of their social goals. For further information please contact SERIO via serio@plymouth.ac.uk, or Serio.ac.uk.

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SECTOR FOCUS: INTERNATIONAL TRADE

INTERNATIONAL TRADE SPECIALIST ON COURSE FOR RECORD YEAR OF GROWTH Huge congratulations to International Trade Matters, who are on course for a record year following increased demand for help in exploring export markets. The South West trade company, founded by Linda Middleton-Jones in 2017, helps around 40 businesses every month through a mixture of strategic advice and tactical training. This has placed her Devon-based business on target to increase sales by 25% to align with the firm’s national rollout of its Global Trade Blueprint (GTB). Linda, who was named Most Influential Woman in Multi-Sector Commerce last year, explained: “There was a major gap in international support between what the Chambers of Commerce provide and what the Department for Business & Trade delivers, that’s where International Trade Matters comes into its own.

“We have built up our compliance specialisms to include IP, sector strengths in marine, automotive, and aerospace and in developing new market entry strategies – all fine-tuned into the new Global Trade Blueprint that supports businesses at any stage of their export journey. “There’s definitely a demand for independent specialist export assistance, so much so that we are seeing a significant increase in companies requesting our services. We are linking the principles of Lean into Export allowing companies to build on their competitive edge and visibility in overseas markets. “The UK’s reputation for manufacturing design, innovation, and new technology is still firmly in place and, despite all of the challenges and additional hurdles we have to contend with, international trade still remains a

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

fantastic way to grow your business.” New Business Council ushers in new partnership era The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) held its inaugural meeting of its new Business Council alongside Cabinet Minister, the Rt Hon Michael Gove and Shadow Chancellor, the Rt Hon Rachel Reeves. The new body, comprising some of the most prominent British businesses, has been brought together to work in partnership with politicians to drive the future of the economy at this crucial time. BCC President and Business Council Chair, Baroness Martha Lane Fox, said: “Now more than ever, businesses must come together to tackle the challenges facing the UK economy. “In the face of economic disruption and with a general election looming, our new, national Business Council will help the voice of business to be heard loud and clear by policymakers.” Princess Yachts welcome Will Green as new CEO Princess Yachts has announced the appointment of Will Green as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Will has been a pivotal member of the Princess Yachts team for 20 years, and most recently served as Executive Director, Commercial. He has been instrumental in driving the sustained period of commercial success enjoyed by the business in recent years and has been critical to establishing the company as one of the leading luxury yachts manufacturers in the world today. Will said: ‘It is an honour to be appointed CEO of Princess. Those who know me will recognise the passion I have for the brand, so this is an exciting opportunity to shape the next chapter for the business and build on its amazing legacy. “I am excited and privileged to work alongside a very talented team which has achieved a long track record of success and, with the support of our controlling shareholder KPS Capital Partners, I know we can build on this further with investment in some key areas

and by focusing on what we do best – building exceptional yachts for our customers.” WBD ranked in top 2% of sustainable businesses globally Womble Bond Dickinson’s (WBD) sustainability programme has been recognised once again after the firm retained its gold certification from EcoVadis, the world’s largest and most-trusted provider of business sustainability ratings. EcoVadis assesses criteria across four themes: Labour & Human Rights, Ethics, Environment and Sustainable Procurement with many businesses across the world now taking into consideration the ratings of potential clients, suppliers, and partners. The 2023 survey evaluated over 100,000 companies from 200 industries spanning 175 countries. Nick Barwood, UK Chair at Womble Bond Dickinson, said: “Each year the requirements to achieve the ‘gold’ banding increase so to have retained our medal and improved our score is a fantastic achievement and is due to a huge concerted effort across teams in the business. “As a firm, WBD aims to be a responsible business working closely to ensure we deliver the best for our people, clients and communities and EcoVadis is a vital part of assessing our responsible business activity.” Register for our International Trade training courses The Devon & Plymouth Chamber’s dedicated International Trade team is on hand to help you learn the key skills that are essential to businesses that trade overseas through our 2023 training courses. With over 15 different international trade courses – many of which are British Chambers of Commerce accredited and result in recognised qualifications – the Chamber’s international trade training programme is ever-evolving so as to meet the needs and demands of current and would-be exporters. These sessions are delivered by expert and experienced trainers from Devon-based International Trade Matters. They will cover the key skills that are essential to businesses that trade overseas. Visit our website to find out more and book: https://devonchamber.co.uk/internationaltrade/training/

SECTOR FOCUS: EDUCATION

REFINING POST-16 EDUCATION: A VISION FOR BOLD REFORM A view on the announcement of the Advanced British Standard - Jackie Grubb, Chief Executive at City College Plymouth The recent announcement regarding the Advanced British Standard, along with associated funding and educational reforms, presents a bold vision for the future of post16 education. In light of the ever-shifting political landscape, it is clear that these proposals may undergo modifications or even bear a different name when transformed into official policy. Therefore uncertainty remains, notwithstanding potential consultations and the publication of a white paper. Nonetheless, these proposals challenge the existing status quo in post-16 education and open the door to substantial discussions on reforming the educational landscape for this age group. Over the past five years, there has been a noticeable policy shift towards emphasising technical education reform including the T Level consultation in 2018 and the “Skills for Jobs: Lifelong Learning for Opportunity and Growth” white paper in 2021. However, these initiatives still retained the concept of separate paths for technical and academic education. The current announcement seeks to eliminate these distinctions by merging both streams under the umbrella of the Advanced British Standard, allowing students to blend technical and academic routes. From the perspective of further education colleges, this reimagining is a welcome development, and it’s heartening to see the sector integrated into these proposals. Nevertheless, the success of these proposals will hinge on their funding and practicality. The proposition to increase students’ study time to align with international standards (1,475 hours over two years) comes with a substantial cost. For further education colleges, this means a 315-hour increase in the standard full-time curriculum, far surpassing the 195 hours mentioned in the policy document. This adjustment would necessitate the hiring of the equivalent of at least 25 new teachers per college for a medium-sized general further education college with 2,500 full-time 16- to 18-year-old students. The recruitment challenge alone poses a significant hurdle. The proposed £30,000 tax-free incentive over five years to address new teacher attrition is indeed a positive step and will aid in retaining newer staff. However, retaining experienced staff remains just as crucial for colleges and

is not addressed by this incentive. A broader increase in the base funding rates is the only viable long-term solution to this issue, enabling colleges to offer competitive salaries that encourage the long-term retention of staff. The recommendation to mandate the continuation of maths and English education until age 18 is a complex issue. While there is no doubt about the value of these subjects to learners and their future career prospects, it must be acknowledged that there is already a high demand for maths teachers. This could pose a significant challenge for colleges that are already coping with a surge in students requiring these subjects post-pandemic and a shortage of teachers. Furthermore, increasing teaching time by 15-20% necessitates equivalent space. Current avenues for capital investment in colleges are insufficient to bring about the necessary

changes, particularly given re-classification limiting alternative options. Addressing this investment gap is imperative; otherwise, many of these efforts will be stymied by a simple lack of physical capacity. Putting aside these funding challenges momentarily, these proposals demonstrate a readiness to reshape the educational landscape. They offer any incoming government the opportunity to boldly address the country’s skills needs through more comprehensive reform, with further education colleges at its core, than might have been possible previously. As a sector, we should cautiously embrace this potential.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

SECTOR FOCUS: DIGITAL

KEEP YOUR BUSINESS AND YOUR DATA SAFE In today’s digital age, protecting your business and its invaluable data is paramount. With the rise of cyber threats and sophisticated hacking techniques, strengthening your business’s cyber security posture has become critical. In this article, we will use our expertise to delve into the world of cyber security, to provide essential insights and strategies to help you bolster your defences to ensure the safety of your business and sensitive information. UNDERSTANDING THE THREAT LANDSCAPE Security threats can come from anywhere inside or outside your business environment. They can be intentional or just a simple employee mistake, making it difficult to stop them from happening. The increase in remote working has drastically expanded the attack surface for most organisations, and cyber attacks are on the rise. The Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2023 from the UK Government found: • 32% of businesses have suffered a breach or an attack in the last 12 months. • Only 21% of businesses and 16% of charities have a formal incident response plan. • £4,960 is the average cost of a breach for a medium or large business in the last 12 months. Cyber criminals are always coming up with new and devious ways to carry out cyber attacks. From phishing to malware and ransomware, attackers are more adept at breaching traditional security measures. At ITEC, a Xerox Business Solutions Company, we place cyber security at our core, and we

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

take every step to help you create a culture of security that protects your business, data and people. STRENGTHEN YOUR DEFENCES CHECKLIST • Use strong passwords: Passwords with at least 16 characters that contain a mix of lower and upper case letters, numbers and symbols are the strongest. Also, remember to use a unique password for each account. • Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer to your cyber security with MFA. It provides a secondary method of confirming your identity, making it harder for attackers to breach. • Train your staff and raise awareness of cyber security: Educating your staff is an important step to strengthening your security posture. Our KnowBe4 Security Awareness and Training helps raise awareness of phishing attempts and ensures people know how to report them. • Keep your software up to date: Keeping software up to date is an easy way to improve your digital security. Outdated software can often create an open door for attackers to easily enter and disrupt your business. • Tighten access controls: Restrict access to sensitive systems and data based on roles. Tightening access to data can help keep it safe and mitigates the risk of internal errors that could lead to an attack. • Enhance network security: Use firewalls and configure them to block unauthorised access. Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for secure data transmission and regularly

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monitor network traffic for any unusual activities. Data protection controls: Encrypt sensitive data and regularly back up critical data and store it in secure, offsite locations. Ideally, immutable backups are best as they can not be altered once created, meaning you have clean data to restore should you be compromised. Strengthen device security: Encourage employees to use passcodes, encryption, and remote wipe features on their mobile devices.

LEARN HOW TO CREATE A CULTURE OF SECURITY Watch our webinar to explore how you can foster a security-conscious culture that safeguards your business and avoids unnecessary disruption. Visit: www.itecgroup.co.uk/insights/webinarbeyond-phishing

HOW WE CAN HELP If you would like to learn more about how we can support you to strengthen your security posture please get in touch, call us on 01752 424499 or email us at: enquiries@itecgroup.co.uk

SECTOR FOCUS: DIGITAL

AWARD-WINNING PERFORMANCE MARKETING October 2023 marks 35 years since we opened the doors to Accord Marketing. For over three decades, we have been committed to helping businesses succeed through innovative marketing strategies, creative excellence, and unwavering dedication to our clients’ success. We have transformed countless brands, driving growth and profitability while continuously adapting to the ever-evolving marketing landscape. Today, our headquarters in Barnstaple is home to our savvy digital team, on hand to deliver an ever-evolving portfolio of services across Devon and the South-West. “We are incredibly proud of our journey over the last 35 years. It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovation of our team and the trust of our clients. We are excited to embark on the next phase of our journey and look forward to many more years of success.” said Simon Gear, Chief Operations Officer. Google classifies Accord in the top 3% of agencies in the UK. We have been part of the Google Premier Partner programme - their highest certification

- since its inception in 2015. To qualify, an agency must continuously meet Google’s exacting requirements in three key areas: best practice, ad spend, and performance growth, as well as demonstrate: • Managing a team of qualified experts delivering the highest standard of work, underpinned by progressive thinking. • Following best practice processes. • Retaining clients by delivering the return on investment they want and deserve. • Implementing ethical digital marketing that drives outstanding results. This status affords us priority access to Google’s latest tools, beta products, techniques, and resources - which means our clients can exploit new opportunities and platforms, utilise the latest research and data, and receive invites to high-profile events and industry presentations. Our Digital Academy Launched in 2016, our Digital Academy is designed to deliver best-in-class training

via specialist modules, group workshops and on-the-job coaching. During each of the 12-month programmes - for Paid Search, SEO and Analytics - all recruits develop a detailed understanding of how digital solutions solve marketing challenges and gain the technical skills needed to succeed in this fast-paced industry. They also undertake a series of exams designed by Google across various disciplines and are trained in Bing, Meta, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok best practice. “Digital marketing is experiencing huge growth, creating a massive demand for people with specialist skills. Hence, we heavily invest in tailored training that allows our people to build a strong foundation in the basics of digital marketing.” David Taylor, Chief Digital Officer To discuss your next project with us, or learn more about what we can offer and how we can work together, contact david.taylor@accordmarketing.com.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION DOESN’T HAVE TO COST YOU AN ARM AND A LEG People throw around Digital Transformation like it’s a magic wand created to rescue organisations from the pit of troglodyte despair. We need to stop overwhelming ourselves with massive over arching terms and instead understand what we are actually trying to achieve. We believe that wide scale transformation is not the right path to take. Instead, we look to focus on the individual frictions and issues within an organisation, usually caused b legacy systems/processes that were created to allow the organisation to function, but are now slowing organisations down. This makes growth slow, painful and ultimately expensive. It could be an issue with paper based processes, poor customer communication destroying retention rates or so many different systems your employees spend more time flitting between them than using them. When approached with an idea or challenge, our priority is to create solutions that don’t contribute to the issue. We take a step back to see the whole context. Whether

it’s an app, a dashboard, or a website, we focus on two things: solving the immediate issue and ensuring it brings genuine value to the organisation. Digital transformation isn’t about grand, costly endeavours that take years to implement. It’s about pinpointing where the real issues lie and strategically tackling those that will deliver the greatest impact. Growth doesn’t require flawless solutions; it requires an understanding of where you can improve and taking iterative, actionable steps. If you are finding your organisation is struggling with a problem, get in touch with our team and we will work with you

to develop a plan to get you on your way to turning those problems into growth opportunities. contact@elixel.co.uk

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

SECTOR FOCUS: TRAVEL

GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY DELIVERING A GREATER SOUTH WEST FOR EVERYONE

At GWR, we are delivering a rail network fit for the 21st century that supports businesses, residents, and visitors alike and are committed to improved infrastructure, timetabling, ticketing, and customer experience. Earlier this year, following the stabilisation of post-Covid travel patterns, we made the biggest changes to timetables in 5 years across our network. For the South West, this has meant improved connectivity with Bristol and London with timetabling adjusted to suit both business and leisure travellers. In partnership with Network Rail, we have embarked on a major programme to improve the signalling system across Devon and Cornwall. We understand the disruption caused by these works is frustrating in the short term. However, by early 2024 a fully upgraded digital signalling system will mean not only improved service reliability and safety

but also will allow for more trains to run right across the region. Alongside timetabling and signalling improvements, this year has also seen three new train stations open, including Marsh Barton in Exeter which provides regular connections between Paignton and Exmouth. Situated in Exeter’s largest trading estate, it provides access to over 500 businesses, new housing developments and safe cycle routes

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

to the city centre, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and County Hall. In the first three months of opening, it has already seen over 23,000 passenger journeys and will eventually serve around 230,000 passengers per year. Meanwhile Okehampton Station, which reopened in 2021, was recently named Small Station of the Year at the National Rail Awards – the railway ‘Oscars’. The station saw over 120,000 journeys in the first year – more than double forecast - as well as stimulating a further 40,000 additional journeys at Crediton. Onward bus connections to other parts of Devon and Cornwall are available directly outside the station. The coming years will see new stations at Cullompton, Tavistock, and Okehampton Parkway alongside the creation of the ‘Mid Cornwall Metro’ and a new station at Wellington in Somerset. Alongside an improved network, we are also making sure our customers have the products they need at their fingertips. This summer, our popular Devon and Cornwall Railcard went digital – the first regional railcard in the UK to do so with card holders saving up to 1/3 on standard class rail fares and available to buy online at GWR.com. Meanwhile, regular travellers in Cornwall can now simply ‘tap in, tap out’ within a PAYG area that covers Penzance to Par, saving them time whilst guaranteeing them the best single fare on the day. As a business operating within the South West, we know how critical tourism is to the region’s economic success. Many of our customers are, of course, leisure travellers eager to experience everything Devon and Cornwall has to offer. We therefore work closely with tourism partners across the region, using our marketing activity to help actively promote events and destinations

across the region. This year, this has included collaborative marketing activity with Visit Exeter and Destination Plymouth, plus working with Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company to create a unique through ticket journey by train, steam railway and boat to Dartmouth. And finally, we continue to work directly with businesses to make rail the better choice.

Our conference fare tickets offer venues and conference organisers discounted rail travel to a number of southwest stations. Meanwhile, our Business Direct travel portal supports organisations who want to encourage their staff to travel more sustainably. This is just a snapshot of some of the work we undertake with our partners to help keep the South West moving. Find out more at GWR.com

SECTOR FOCUS: Financial

THE APPRENTICESHIP PATHWAY TO GROWTH Recruiting the right talent for a business is a key challenge for any organisation embarked on growth. And in the current economic climate, finding people with the requisite skills is particularly difficult to achieve. So, that means recruiting apprentices who are willing and able to learn new skills. Bishop Fleming’s Better Growth strategy could not be happening without its ability to recruit apprentices who can be skilled up to provide the services the firm offers. That being of professional services to corporate clients in a number of key sectors including manufacturing, technology, construction, food & drink and healthcare, and more recently also in the public sector. 2023 has seen the firm recruit a recordbreaking number of apprentices. Its 74 new recruits included 43 university graduates, 26

school leavers and five placement students. This fourth successive year of growth in apprentice numbers comes just three years since Bishop Fleming became an accredited apprenticeship Employer Provider. The growth in recruitment can also be attributed to a move away from the traditional round of graduate hiring to a widening of the net to encourage non-graduates, school leavers and those returning to a career after a break to apply for positions. Each apprentice receives an extensive induction plan for their first 100-days. Many will start to undertake their qualifications for the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), with whom the firm is a ‘Partner in Learning’. Other apprentices may pursue different qualifications in tax or payroll for example. Bishop Fleming is only one of a few in the

UK to have Employer Provider status, which has yielded great results for its Apprenticeship programme. The firm has been ranked once again for its apprenticeship programme in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer rankings for 2023 and is current holder of the Investing in People award at the Accounting Excellence Awards. The firm is a Certified Great Place to Work® and is ranked as a Best Workplace for Women and Best Workplace for Consulting and Professional Services. Anyone interested in seeking a similar rewarding career should visit careers.bishopfleming.co.uk to find out about current vacancies or to enquire about joining the firm’s 2024 intake.

Do you need a website that delivers measurable success? We partner with our clients to create websites that clearly communicate their offering to their customers, and then are measured and improved to ensure continual success.

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01752 936300 Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

HOW MANUFACTURERS, WHOLESALERS AND SUPPLIERS CAN MITIGATE THE IMPACT OF MARINE CARGO DELAYS AND COST FLUCTUATIONS For manufacturers, wholesalers, and suppliers, a reliable supply chain to deliver parts and materials is crucial to financial success. Delays, fluctuating and unforeseen transit costs, and lost deliveries can seriously disrupt operations, leaving firms struggling to fulfil customer orders on time. In turn, the knock on effects can be significant, affecting everything from profit margins, customer relationships, and reputation. What causes shipment delays? There are many issues that can cause shipping delays. For instance, environmental issues like the drought conditions affecting shipping flows through the Panama canal, which is expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Then there are incidents like the Suez canal blockage, which created additional costs estimated at $9.6bn a day by holding up hundreds of container ships for six days in 2021. However, most delays have rather more mundane causes, including: • •

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Port congestion; Supply chain disruption, as seen following worldwide COVID-19 lockdowns; Workforce shortage; Changing trade policies and customs clearance processes, for instance those flowing from Brexit.

The fluctuating cost of cargo Unfortunately, shipping delays are not the only source of unforeseen cargo costs. In recent years, businesses have been forced to navigate volatile marine cargo pricing, which saw some rates more than quadruple in 2021. But it’s not only external factors that can

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

create unexpected shipping costs. Incidents at sea combined with General Average (GA) – a long-established principle of Maritime Law – can also bring unforeseen expense. GA sets out that losses incurred through ‘sacrifices at sea’ made in order to save a ship should be covered by those benefitting from the loss. For instance, where cargo is jettisoned, any party which has suffered the loss is entitled to recover a proportion of their loss from the other parties who have benefited – in this case, those whose cargo was saved. How to mitigate the impact of cargo shipment delays There are a number of steps that manufacturers, wholesalers and suppliers can take to help lessen the blow from marine cargo delays and fluctuating prices: •

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Perform annual supply chain risk assessments: Look across the supply chain at suppliers, third-party dependencies, physical locations etc. Identify potential risks and any measures that could help to eliminate them or reduce the impact if the worst should happen. Build marine cargo delay into business continuity planning: Build on supply chain risk assessments by thinking about how the business could respond in specific worst case scenarios. Reducing marine cargo reliance: Where possible, source parts and materials from closer to home. Even if this is only applied to a portion of a business’s supply chain, this will help reduce your exposure to shipping risk. Maintain inventory buffers: Particularly for parts and materials that can only be supplied from afar, having ‘just in

case’ supplies held locally can help to mitigate the impact of shipment delays. The role of marine cargo insurance When it comes to managing and mitigating marine cargo risks, insurance also has an important role to play – helping to cover losses and, in many cases, also protecting against General Average fees. However, it’s important to review marine cargo insurance regularly, to ensure it remains appropriate for the business and its shipping activities. As with any coverage, underinsuring your business could leave you exposed financially if the worst should happen. Help is at hand If you need help, guidance, and support with marine cargo risk management or marine cargo insurance, contact a Marsh Commercial expert on 01752 202030, or visit marshcommercial.co.uk.

SECTOR FOCUS: MARINE

BABCOCK’S DEVONPORT SITE WELCOMES MORE THAN 250 NEW RECRUITS Babcock, the international defence company, has welcomed more than 250 new apprentices and graduates to its Devonport facility. Babcock’s new early careers employees will support a variety of projects and business areas, from life extension programmes on frigates and submarines, to advanced manufacturing and technology innovation projects carried out on site. The apprentice roles include welders, fabricators and pipe workers, as well as electrical fitters, mechanical fitters and computer numerical control (CNC) machinists. The graduates are involved in a wide range of business areas such as specialist engineering (mechanical, electrical, process and civil), naval architecture and project management. This new cohort of joiners will benefit from the recently launched Babcock Skills Academy. A hybrid teaching model that combines cutting-edge digital resources and hands-on training to enhance Babcock’s workforce capabilities. Paul Watson, Babcock’s Managing Director for Devonport said: “A very warm welcome to our new starters, we are delighted to welcome so many talented recruits to our site. “The calibre of our candidates was extremely high again this year and it is fantastic to be offering so many apprentices and graduates the opportunity to unlock their potential with us.”

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER SOCIAL DIARY

SOCIETREE LAUNCHES WITH PLEDGE TO PLANT 96 ‘MICROFORESTS’ AT PLYMOUTH SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION PROVIDERS

More than 200 people attended a special launch evening at the Market Hall in Devonport for SocieTree, an exciting new social enterprise which has pledged to plant 96 unique ‘microforests’ at schools throughout Plymouth and surrounding areas. The event on Thursday 5th October gave people, businesses and organisations the opportunity to find out more about this brand new Community Interest Company and how they can take part and donate to these microforests. SocieTree’s Board of Directors is made up of Steve Warren-Brown, founder and Managing Director of locally-based YGS Landscapes, together with Adam King, Steve Evans and Nick Sprague. The team’s long-term ambition to build a greener, more sustainable future in as many different communities, starting with the

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

planting of the 96 microforests. a school or education provider and funding YGS Landscapes is one of the headline the creation of a microforest – investing their partners for this year’s Devon Business Show, corporate social responsibility budgets in which takes place at Plymouth Pavilions on a sustainable way with environmental and Wednesday 11 October. educational benefits. Steve Warren-Brown Microforests are “THROUGH OUR PILOT joined us for our Devon literally small, dense PROJECTS, WE HAVE Business Show podcast forests that are a ALREADY PLANTED special, produced mixture of trees and HUNDREDS OF TREES by Fresh Air Studios plants that produce AND GIVEN AWAY in partnership with remarkable biodiversity HUNDREDS OF BOOKS Westcotts, to tell us all for their size. AND THE EFFECT IT’S HAD SocieTree’s aim is to about the return of the ON THE CHILDREN HAS create a lasting legacy pop-up forest for 2023. BEEN OVERWHELMING.” that not only inspires While SocieTree expects most of its the next generation by funding to come from company sponsorship, planting microforests, which have incredible anybody interested in supporting its plans is environmental benefits, but also by supplying welcome. The team is inviting companies and free books to every child who takes part. organisations to join its mission by sponsoring As part of the package, the children receive

CHAMBER SOCIAL DIARY

two years of free books, based on the work of microforest pioneer Dr Akira Miyawaki. The book series, entitled My Wacky Forest, is centred around the main character Mushi, who is a Fun-guy! SocieTree has named the initiative Project 96 – and is inspired by the late Queen who died aged 96, carrying on her vision of a ‘Green Canopy’. Two microforests have already been planted as part of a pilot scheme at Mount Wise Primary School and the YMCA Discovery College in Honicknowle, linked to Manadon Vale Primary School. Co-Founder Steve Warren-Brown said: “Through our pilot projects, we have already planted hundreds of trees and given away hundreds of books and the effect it’s had on the children has been overwhelming.

“The smiles prove that kids love nature, and to know that these micro-forests will continue to do educational, social and environmental good as they grow is a wonderful feeling. The planting days are fantastic and reinforce the need to get this done. Every school should have its own ‘My Wacky Forest’! “The environmental effects of microforests are well-documented. Evidence shows they are incredibly efficient at sequestering carbon, they are significantly more diverse and they can grow up to 10 times more quickly, meaning you can have real generational impacts. Add to this the potential to reduce air temperature and to remove pollutants and you really do have a ‘Superlung’. “It is not just the environmental benefits that interest us. The children get free books,

which are educational and FUN, and we have all read about the benefits of being outdoors and its impact on wellbeing. These projects impact on a multi-layered level and really do have huge potential which we are of course looking at recording and continuing to develop. “Whilst our initial aim is to plant the 96 schools as part of Project 96, we would love to think that this may inspire others to get involved...why not aim to plant one in or on behalf of every school in England?” Find out more how you can sponsor at https://www.societree.uk/ or email info@societree.uk.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER SOCIAL DIARY

30 Under 30 Networking Pictures from a brilliant afternoon at The Corinthian Plymouth for our latest 30 Under 30 networking event, in partnership with Babcock International Group. Don’t worry if you missed out, as registration is open for our next meeting at Foot Anstey LLP on Thursday 7 December.

City Conversations Brilliant to have so many of Plymouth’s leading businesses joining us at Foot Anstey LLP for our September City Conversations, our flagship event for business leaders and the city’s strategic briefing. As well as a fantastic line-up of speakers, we were also joined by our two newest Patrons, Livewell Southwest and Retain Limited.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER SOCIAL DIARY

Devon Business Networking Some of our favourite pictures from September’s Devon Business Networking event at South Devon College, in partnership with Westcotts Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers. Huge thanks to everyone who joined us, including our speakers.

PABC Quarterly Meeting A fantastic turnout for September’s Plymouth Area Business Council (PABC) quarterly meeting, sponsored by Azets, with 70 people in attendance at the Council House in Plymouth, including some new members.

Brand Biscuit Studio Brand DNA Workshop Congratulations to Brand Biscuit Studio’s Christina Wilkins who held her successful Brand DNA Workshop at our Devon & Plymouth Chamber HQ, where guests learnt about the importance of how to define their brand and ensure it stands out.

Pelican of London Voyage Our Devon & Plymouth Chamber team and members had a wonderful time aboard the tall ship Pelican of London, where we discovered more about how Seas Your Future teaches young people sailing and other skills that help improve their physical, mental and social development. Stuart Elford also linked up with the Fresh Air Studios Ltd team to record an ‘In Conversation With…’ podcast, supported by Westcotts, before everyone headed to the National Marine Aquarium for a special presentation evening for Seas Your Future partners, sponsors and friends. Available on iTunes & Spotify.

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER SOCIAL DIARY

Green Breakfast Networking What an incredible morning at Pentillie Castle and Estate for our Green Breakfast Networking event, in partnership with YGS Landscapes Ltd. Thank you to everyone who joined us, including our excellent guest speakers.

Net Swimming We wrapped up this season’s Devon & Plymouth Chamber Net Swimming events with a dip in the beautiful waters of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park - it truly is the best way to start the working day. Huge thanks to everyone who joined us to end an unforgettable summer including our event partner, Rebecca Day for supplying the samples that improve swim performance and nourish the skin and muscles. And also to The Terrace Cafe and Bar for opening early each time and providing delicious coffee and breakfast rolls. That’s not the end of our open-water adventures - we’ll be back!

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER SOCIAL DIARY

PINPOINTING CLIENTS’ ISSUES AND DEVISING PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS Meet Becky Warnes, an award-winning independent business consultant based in the South Hams who is having her first book published next autumn

Becky Warnes collaborates with a diverse clientele, many of whom seek to launch new products or revitalise declining sales trajectories. Her expertise lies in facilitating her clients' competitive edge through in-depth market analysis, repositioning unique selling points (USPs), and crafting sales strategies to seize market opportunities.

She offers a comprehensive package, serving as a strategist, mentor, and trainer, ensuring her clients maximise sales effectiveness. Becky believes that sales professionals can and should work ethically, and this involves adopting collaborative ways of working that not only increase sales revenues but also future business opportunities. What sets Becky apart is her

adaptability. She recognises the uniqueness of each client's needs and tailors her approach accordingly, never compromising on service standards to achieve the best possible outcomes. Her desire to understand the current state of any environment allows her to build relationships with stakeholders and identify barriers to sales success. Her commitment to ongoing learning keeps her attuned to the everevolving client landscapes, allowing her to design specific strategies aligned with current national and local priorities. While Becky's extensive experience spans the private sector, she also contributed her skills to the NHS, where she served as a digital transformation strategist. Her role involved supporting the development of digital plans and roadmaps while actively managing programs to enhance the patient-centric experience, ultimately improving quality and healthcare outcomes. A large part of Becky’s impact came from working with leaders

and front-line staff to create two-way communications, that enabled honest feedback and reporting, and promoting psychological safety. Regardless of the complexity of the challenge, Becky possesses a rare talent for pinpointing the root causes of issues and devising practical solutions. Her innovative outlook drives her to venture beyond conventional norms, and she fosters a dynamic collaborative approach, ensuring that the right individuals are engaged, and their talents fully harnessed. In Autumn of 2024 Becky’s first book will be published by Routledge Publishing. She has been commissioned by this global publishing house to write about how traditional relationship marketing and selling techniques can be adapted to the digital age.

County Conversations Some of our favourite pictures from a fantastic morning of networking at Petroc’s Tiverton Campus for County Conversations. Thank you to everyone who joined us, including our amazing guest speakers. And special mention to Neil Heather from Doorcare South West Ltd who was on hand to fix our hosts’ broken door and show the #ChamberFamily in action!

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER SOCIAL DIARY

CELEBRATING OUR AMAZING CHAMBER CHAMPIONS Our Devon & Plymouth Chamber team hosted a special event at The Loft in Plymouth to celebrate our Chamber Champions. The Chamber Champions scheme allows more businesses to gain access to a host of benefits, advice and services aimed at helping them to connect, grow and succeed. If you know someone who would be interested in joining Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, all you need to do is refer a new paid member to start enjoying the incredible incentives. So many well-known faces from the local business community were in attendance at our

Champions event, all helping to build a bigger and better Chamber for all our members. Clare Baker, the Chamber’s Membership Experience Manager, says: “Your business deserves to be part of something bigger, and our Chamber Champions scheme is all about building a better Chamber for all. “Being part of our Chamber family means getting opportunities to learn, collaborate and build powerful new connections. As well as an extensive events programme throughout the year, our members also have access to a number of resources including our Finance Finder and our Wellbeing Hub.

“We can also help you access over 200 new markets overseas through our British Chambers of Commerce’s 100 years of Trade experience messages. “So, if you’re an advocate of our wonderful county and an advocate of business, get involved today and connect with

more than 90,000 individuals in Devon.” If you’re not already a Chamber Champion, visit the dedicated #ChamberChampions page on our website to find out more: www.devonchamber.co.uk/ chamber-champions/

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY County Conversations 5 December 2023 Taking place at Exeter’s Future Skills Centre, our flagship breakfast event provides a platform for business leaders to hear from senior figures in the public and private sectors about developments of critical importance to businesses. Christmas Networking Lunch 11 December 2023 To get you in the festive spirit, we’re inviting members and non-members to join us at Boringdon Park Golf Club for a delicious festive lunch, which includes a drink on arrival, a three-course meal and competition prizes. City Conversations 11 January 2024 Our flagship invitation-only event returns to Foot Anstey in Plymouth, featuring excellent guest speakers and providing business leaders with strategic briefings on a wide variety of topics that are of interest to those in senior management roles. Devon Business Show 16 October 2024 The Devon Business Show will be back in 2024 with a fresh new format that will promote inclusivity and feature exciting, innovative and interactive displays. You can register your interest now as an exhibitor at our brand new venue of the Plymouth Life Centre. Find out more on our website: https://devonchamber.co.uk/devon-business-show/

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

CHAMBER PEOPLE Thomas Roberts is Corporate Manager at Westcotts Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers and a director on the Devon & Plymouth Chamber Board

What do you do and why do you enjoy it? I’m a manager at Westcotts (SW) LLP where I support a large portfolio of owner managed businesses and charity clients. I’ve been working in finance for over 15 years and I enjoy what I do now more than ever. I get to meet so many different people from different walks of life and find out about the people behind the business itself. It’s more than just the numbers! What inspires you? Spending time with my wife. When people overcome their own adversity and challenges, it inspires me to do the same. What drives you? My own passion to ensure I’m the best person I can be. This hopefully inspires others to live in the same way.

Where do you see the future of your organisation? Utilising software such as cloud accounting to provide proactive advice that our clients need. Business owners are not overly interested in how things went nine to 12 months ago. They need to know how things may look in the future through forecasts and planning. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? You can’t move forward if you’re carrying the weight of the past. If you could sum up your CV in one word, it would be..? Reliable When it comes to business, do you follow head or heart? You must balance both. It’s important to ensure you’re making the right decision for the right reasons. Describe yourself in five words Driven, Dependable, Approachable, Organised and Tall!

How do you balance life and work? This can be very difficult to manage but I try to ensure I have my own time to relax with the people who mean the most to me. Turning off notifications is always a good place to start! What’s your favourite quote? “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.” A fantastic film and a quote I always remember. Who has been the greatest influence on you? Both my parents. Although very different people, they’re both extremely hard-working and have taught me to remain grounded whilst driving towards the goals I aim for. What are you most proud of? Before my role at Westcotts, I was the Finance Director of a local conservation charity. I played an integral role in keeping the charity in business through COVID and the various lockdowns. I left the organisation in the best financial position it has ever been, and this would be my proudest professional achievement to date.

NEW MEMBERS A WARM WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS FROM ACROSS DEVON & PLYMOUTH Ace Double Glazing Ltd Unit 4, Miller Court Millbay Road Elburton Plymouth PL1 3LQ www.acedoubleglazing.co.uk Appleyard & Trew LLP Suite 7, BLOCK Melville Building Plymouth Plymouth PL1 3RP www.appleyardandtrew.com Assentech Sales Ltd Mount Pleasant Farm Gorran St Austell Cornwall PL26 6LR www.assentech.co.uk Austin Matley The Tides 12 Higher Warren Road Kingsbridge Devon TQ71LG www.austinmatley.com Building Plymouth 10 Parsonage Way Queens Annes Quay Plymouth Devon PL4 0LY www.buildingplymouth.co.uk Choice Fulfilment Services Ltd 37b Sisna Park Road Estover Plymouth Devon PL6 7FH www.choicefulfilment.com/ City Care Southwest Ltd Plumer House Tailyour Road Plymouth Plymouth PL6 5DH www.citycaresw.co.uk City Security Ltd 46a underlane Plympton Plymouth Devon PL7 1QX www.citysecurityplymouth.co.uk

CL Drylining Ltd 71 Bowerings Road Bridgwater Somerset TA6 6HF cldryliningltd.co.uk/

Lewis College Ltd Wessex House, Teign Road Newton Abbot Devon TQ12 4AA www.lewiscollege.co.uk

Red Air Drones Aerial Media Limited 1 Barnfield Cresent Exeter EX1 1QT www.redairmedia.com

Comms & Culture Hope Cove House Ilsham Marine Drive Devon Torquay TQ1 2PH www.commsandculture.co.uk

LMB insurance Services Ltd 22 bickham park road Peverell Plymouth PL3 4QL www.LMB insurance.co.uk

Resilience Communications Ltd 29-31 Enterprise Court, Marine Drive Cornwall PL11 2EH www.resiliencecomms.com

Complete Training LTD Unit D4, Phase 4, Plymouth Science Park, 18 Davy Road Plymouth Devon PL6 8BX www.completetrainingltd.co.uk/

LTC Recruitment Limited Derriford Business Park The Apex, Brest Road Plymouth Devon PL65FL www.ltc-rec.co.uk

SocieTree PLYMOUTH Devon PL6 5QZ www.societree.uk

Devon and Cornwall Food Action Unit 4, Porsham Close, Belliver Industrial Estate, Roborough Plymouth PL67DB devonandcornwallfoodaction.org/

Megan Mai Virtual Services 1 Bramble Lane Honiton Devon EX14 1AS

Ferndale Community Tenants Group CIC rear 11 to 12 Vermont gardens, Plymouth PL2 2EX www.fcradio.co.uk Fresh Digital Media 22 Constantine Street Plymouth Devon PL48DE www.freshdigitalmedia.co.uk Global Media One The Square Temple Quay Bristol BS1 6DG www.global.com Handelsbanken Ground Floor Salt Quay House Plymouth Devon PL4 0BN www.handelsbanken.co.uk/plymouth Laura Jackson - your personal Travel Agent Plymouth www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/laura.jackson

Method Engine 2 EDDYSTONE Cottages, Downderry Torpoint PL11 3JZ www.methodengine.io No Limits Cafe & Hub 3 Bridge House, Sherborne Road Newton Abbot Devon TQ12 2QX www.nolimitscafe.co.uk Plymouth Active Leisure Ballard House, West Hoe Road, PLYMOUTH Devon PL1 3BJ www.plymouthactive.co.uk Plymouth Highbury Trust Plymouth Highbury Trust 207 Outland Road Peverell Plymouth PL2 3PF www.plymouthhighburytrust.org.uk Pound Lane Financial Management Lower Loveham Farm High Bickington Umberleigh EX37 9AU www.poundlane.co.uk

South West Foreign Exchange Ltd Britton House 10 Fore Street Kingsbridge Devon TQ7 1JE www.southwestfx.co.uk Sphere 6 4 Kimlers Way St Martins Cornwall Looe PL13 1PS www.sphere6.com Stasis Media Ltd 11 Hearder Court Beechwood Way Devon Plymouth PL7 5HH www.stasismedia.com Teachers 2 Go 19 Park Lane Business Centre Nottingham Nottingham NG60DW teachers2go.co.uk The Mad Cow Gallery 96b Ridgeway, Plympton Devon Plymouth PL72AG www.themadcowgallery.com Welding Equipment Online Ltd Unit 9, Residence 2 Royal William Yard Plymouth Devon PL1 3RP www.weldingandwelder.com

Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

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Winter 2023 Chamber Profile

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