Business Direction 14

Business

Direction

The Serious Side of Exporting page 16/17 Does Worcester need a 4* hotel? page 23 Enter the Chamber Business Awards page 40

Page 26

Big Interview: Bill Jackson - page 24/25 ÂŁ2.00 where sold

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce BD14.indd 1

July/August 2013 Issue 14 2/7/13 09:40:53

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2/7/13 09:40:54

The Serious Side

Bu sin ess

Dir ec tio n

Does Worcester

of Exporting page need a 4* hotel?

Enter the Chamber

16/17

page 23

Business Awards

FIRSTWORD

page 40

WELCOME TO THE SUMMER EDITION OF BUSINESS DIRECTION Page 26

£2.00 where

: Bill Jackson - page 24/25 Big Inter view n published Business Directio

rce r of Comme ershire Chambe shire and Worcest

by Hereford

sold

Issue July/August 2013

As we go to press, summer has finally arrived (almost!) and many of our tourist attractions and businesses have started to recover from a difficult start.

Malvern Hills Technology Park: facilitating the expansion of the existing Malvern Science Park over the next 10 years, potentially leading to another 1,400 jobs.

A lot is going on in both counties; at New Road, the home of Worcestershire Cricket Club they are hosting a match against the Australia cricket team from Tuesday 2 to Friday 5 July as they prepare for the Ashes series, the new Worcester Arena has also recently opened and hosted a Sky Sports Netball competition and a number of paralympic events.

These ‘Game Changer’ projects provide real opportunties to leverage investment, leading to greater levels of employment and hence prosperity for us all.

14

HWCHAMBER.CO.UK Business Direction, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s full colour bi-monthly publication. Designed and produced by business people for business people. Distributed to 6,000 businesses including selected retail outlets across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

EDITOR Kelly Key 0845 641 1641 ext 213

kellyk@hwchamber.co.uk Oliver Smith 0845 641 1641 ext 279

olivers@hwchamber.co.uk

EDITORIAL businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk 0845 641 1641 ext 213

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

ADVERTISING Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2337

This edition concentrates on inward investment. The Hereford Enterprise Zone Chair, Bill Jackson, is featured on page 24 and 25; it is a big opportunity for growth and inward investment on the Rotherwas Estate. In both Herefordshire and Worcestershire we have some interesting leads developing.

Worcestershire, through the LEP, has identified four key strategic sites for development. These are: Redditch Eastern Gateway: a high quality business park with the potential for an additional 1,600 jobs in the county over the next 10 years.

South Kidderminster Enterprise Park: supporting the on-going development on the site of the old British Sugar factory. This will have the potential to create 2,000 jobs in the county and includes the development of 300 homes Worcester Central: the development of Worcester Technology Park to the eastern side of the city, close to junction 6 of the M5 motorway. Potential to create up to 9,000 jobs over a 15 year period.

Both counties have great opportunities for inward investment as they are both a good place to work, live and play. The mood in the two counties is now more positive and focused and we will hopefully see the rewards of that as we go forward.

Exporting is also critical to the economy and each year in the two counties we see an increase in the number of businesses exporters. China provides a great partnership opportunity and last October a trade mission went to China to learn more about the area and its opportunities, and recently a delegation from China came to Worcester.

As always, one of the highlights is the annual award. This year they will be held at Chateau Imney on Thursday 26 September. It is a wonderful opportunity to raise the profile of your company and celebrate your success. In the past we have had a large number who have gone onto win the regional awards and some in the national awards.

I hope you have a nice summer.

Mikea@hwchamber.co.uk

CONTENTS

Helen.smith@distinctivegroup.co.uk

3 First word

23 Destination Worcestershire

FEATURE EDITORS

4 Chamber news

24 Big Interview: Bill Jackson

John Dean & Francis Griss

5 Business news

deangriss@btinternet.com

26 Cover story: Major projects

7 Business news

38 Chamber training

8 Business news

39 Training planner

SUBSCRIPTIONS www.hwchamber.co.uk/view-our-businessmagazine Tel: 0845 641 1641

9 Business news 12 Business news 15 International trade

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publisher accepts no responsibility for omissions or errors within this publication. Editorial submissions are included at the discretion of the editor. The opinions expressed in articles and letters within this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber. All offers, promotions and competitions appearing in Business Direction are the sole responsibility of the advertiser/ promoting party and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce does not accept any responsibility for any representations made within them.

17 International trade 18 Policy 19 Investing in Herefordshire and Worcestershire

40 Chamber Events

24

42 Business news 43 New Members 44 Business news 47 Business news 48 Business news

20 Business news

49 Movers and Shakers

22 Conference Worcestershire

50 Last word

26

Our Patrons are:

July/August 2013

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

03 2/7/13 09:41:04

CHAMBERNEWS

WORCESTERSHIRE ORGANISATIONS RECEIVE RECOGNITION FOR PROMOTING HEALTH AND WELLBEING IN THE WORKPLACE Local businesses were honoured recently at Worcestershire County Cricket Club as they were awarded their Worcestershire Works Well Level 1 accreditation at the third bi-annual Worcestershire Works Well Conference.

Speller Metcalfe, Worcester Association of Carers, Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade Headquarters, Southco Manufacturing, RCA Regeneration, Droitwich Spa & Rural Council for Voluntary Service and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce received their certification after demonstrating to the assessors their commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of their staff.

Worcester Bosch’s headquarters in Worcester.

NEW PATRON MEMBER: WORCESTER, BOSCH GROUP

Dr Frances Howie, Head of Health and Wellbeing, Department of Adult Services and Health presented the certificates following a lively morning of presentations and group discussions, which included the importance of maintaining a healthy business, a thought provoking presentation about how food affects our moods and a health MOT demonstration.

Worcester, Bosch Group is a leading manufacturer of high-efficiency domestic boilers. Its range of Which?

Best Buy accredited Greenstar gas and LPG boilers, and its extensive range of Greenstar oil-fired condensing boilers are available in combi, regular and system options to suit all homes.

As part of the worldwide Bosch Group and with its Headquarters and manufacturing facility in Worcestershire, Worcester products are designed, manufactured and distributed with the innovation, quality and reliability that is synonymous with the Bosch name.

Delegates were also given the opportunity to experience “PING” - which is a portable table tennis set designed to fit to any table and may be assembled in seconds.

Worcester’s portfolio includes a range of renewable technologies for sustainable heating and hot water including Greenskies solar thermal panels, Greenstore ground source heat pumps and Greensource air to air and air to water heat pumps.

www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

NICKLIN CONTINUES EXPANSION WITH FURTHER MERGER Nicklin LLP is continuing its expansion across the West Midlands and beyond by merging with Worcester-based Crowther Beard LLP – the second merger for Nicklin in the space of eight months.

The merger was completed on 1 March and will see Crowther Beard, which also has an office in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, changing its name to Nicklin LLP, although it will continue to operate from its two existing offices.

All Crowther Beard staff are transferring to the new practice, with partners Sarah Costello-Byrne and Chris Hobbs taking on consultancy roles.

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Bromsgrove and District Housing Trust also gave an inspirational presentation and shared their ideas about health and wellbeing in the workplace. So far, 68 local businesses have signed up to the scheme and many of the companies that achieved Level 1 accreditations are now already working towards Level 2.

Worcestershire Works Well is a free accreditation scheme designed to enable local businesses to improve the health and wellbeing of the workforce. www.worcestershireworkswell.co.uk

Harvey Owen, Managing Partner at Nicklin, said: “This merger will enable both firms to share ideas and continue building on their existing strengths in order to enhance the services we offer to our clients which, in turn, will help to grow the practice.”

John Painter, who was Managing Partner at Crowther Beard and will remain as a partner within the new practice, said: “We have known Nicklin for some time and have found the firm to be very similar to ours in terms of its values, goals and approach to client service.”

Dawn Hardman receiving Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s certificate

www.nicklins.co.uk

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BUSINESSNEWS

A MAGIC TIME AT 10 DOWNING STREET Neil and Laura Westwood, founders of Magic Whiteboard, were recently invited to a reception at 10 Downing Street to celebrate entrepreneurship and met the Prime Minister.

SOFTWARE COMPANY RECEIVE CSO AWARD Malvern software firm borwell are delighted to receive an award for their vital contribution to an MoD operational system.

police forces and the UK Border Force, allowing significant cost savings and encouraging cross government co-operation.

The project, named Telesto, has been developed for strategic tracking and distribution of maritime information with front line users both within the MoD, across Government and internationally. Telesto provides information to many government agencies, including most of the coastal

Telesto was used extensively to support many security operations including Operation Ellamy (military intervention to Libya) and the maritime component to the London Olympics. During the Olympics the crew of HMS Albion, using Telesto, policed the Weymouth regatta.

employing apprentices and his kids would like drawing on it. www.magicwhiteboard.co.uk

In a private conversation, David Cameron said that he was pleased that Magic Whiteboard were

www.borwell.com

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On June 19, Malvern invited Viscotek chromatography and Zetasizer particle characterization system users to near neighbour The Morgan Motor Company, to host its most recent User Group Meeting. The location ensured an alternative technology talking point alongside the laboratory techniques that were the day’s main business.

Resource Efficient Worcestershire is managed by Worcestershire County Council in partnership with Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund

Malvern’s exclusive User Group Meetings are offered as part of a highly successful global programme of education, networking and information exchange that encompasses

Visit www.business-central.co.uk/resource-efficiency-grants

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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During the reception David Cameron addressed the attendees saying: “Small businesses are essential for the future growth of the UK economy and the Government are absolutely on the side of business, on the side of entrepreneurs and in particular, on the side of small businesses.”

classroom-style events, live webinars, on-demand presentations and a wide variety of interactive eLearning tools.

Guest speaker Dr Ian Tucker from Unilever talked about the company’s use of light scattering techniques in their research and development workflow, while Mat Jennions of Diamond Light Source LTD, discussed the measurement of membrane proteins.

Together with presentations from Malvern’s own technical and applications specialists, these added up to a full and varied day, with delegates also treated to a tour of The Morgan Motor Company’s factory. www.malvern.com/events

05 2/7/13 09:41:21

HIGH FLIERS’ LEADERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER The University of Worcester is recruiting now to its prestigious part-time study programmes for senior executives: Master of Business Administration (MBA): This is a general management qualification for current and future middle and senior managers seeking to gain a real edge in the business world, hone their professional skills, assume a significant leadership role, switch careers and boost their pay packet.

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA): The DBA is a life and game-changing experience designed to not only enhance your advanced understanding of business and management but also of yourself, your way of working and your own management style.

Unlike research-doctorates such as PhDs, there is a significant taught component where you will work with other professionals from Education and Health, as well as Business Management backgrounds.

Both of these programmes are available on a flexible part-time study basis allowing you to achieve top flight qualifications without interrupting your professional working life.

To learn more about how either of these programmes can help you to move your business and career forward, and develop top-level business networks, contact: MBA: Dr Tim Sellick Worcester Business School University of Worcester e-mail: t.sellick@worc.ac.uk Tel: 01905 542498

DBA: Dr Jan Francis-Smythe Worcester Business School University of Worcester e-mail: j.francis-smythe@worc.ac.uk Tel: 01905 855242.

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Finance subject to status. Guarantees/indemnities may be required. Examples exclude VAT and are based on 36 month non-maintained agreements. Profile 3+35, payments in advance of 3 monthly rentals + VAT, followed by 35 monthly rentals plus VAT with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicles must be returned in good condition and within agreed mileage, otherwise further charges will be incurred. Prices correct at time of going to print and are subject to change without notice. Subject to availability at a Ford Authorised UK Dealer for vehicles with finance accepted and vehicle contracted between 01/07/2013 and 30/09/2013. Not available with any other promotion. Ford Lease is provided by ALD Automotive Limited trading as Ford Lease, Oakwood Park, Lodge Causeway, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3JA.

06 BD14.indd 6

July/August 2013

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BUSINESSNEWS Who or what is cyber security?

And where is the Doctor?

HOGE 100 LAUNCHES TASTY NEW SOFTWARE Chamber Strategic Member Hoge 100 has launched a new software product set to be of interest to all manner of smaller businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, including retail, travel and hospitality.

‘WHO’ OR WHAT IS CYBER SECURITY? Worcestershire is being hailed as a leading force in cyber security, with the sector set to play a significant role in the county’s economic future.

To attract talented people, Hewett Recruitment is working with local businesses to help demystify cyber security.

The Worcester based software provider has added DK Business Solutions to its portfolio of bespoke and off the shelf software systems.

For businesses such as restaurants and bars, this new software allows orders to be taken on the server’s iPad, or other tablet, to then flow seamlessly to printers in the kitchen and bar and be recorded in the financial part of the system. Other suitable applications include

Jon Holmes and Alistair Hayward Wright

Targeted specifically at companies striving to streamline operational efficiency for stock and projects and a fully integrated CRM, DK Business Solutions allows POS systems to merge seamlessly with sales, accounts and sales management packages being used. www.hoge100.co.uk

Worcester and Tewkesbury’s plant and tool hire company, WHC Hire Services, is continuing to gain recognition for its work in ensuring that operators of plant, machinery and vehicles are doing so in safety.

Ruth Inglis, Titania’s Marketing Manager, commented: “With initiatives such as the Cyber Valley and Malvern Cyber Security Cluster, Worcestershire is a blossoming hub for cyber security. This is great news for local cyber security companies, and helps increase the pool of cyber talent.”

www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

charities and not-for-profit for which there are special donations and CRM facilities.

PRESTIGIOUS AWARD FOR WHC HIRE SERVICES

Cyber companies borwell and Titania are already recruiting through Hewett Recruitment to meet demand for high quality personnel.

Andrea Borwell-Fox added: “As Worcestershire’s cyber security enterprises prosper, more young people will consider a career in this lucrative industry. Helped

by Hewett’s pro-active approach, Worcestershire will also begin to attract more experienced cyber security professionals who have historically flocked to larger cities.”

Stuart Wild, Director of Hoge 100

James Clutterbuck, Owner of WHC Hire Services, commented: “We have always focused on safety and the safe use of equipment and that has led to the success of our highly advanced safety testing service.

Not only is all of our own hire equipment tested and rated for vibration and noise, but we also supply the service to other large national companies to ensure the safety of their in-house tools and plant.”

James receiving the RoSPA Occupational Health and Safety Award 2013 on behalf of WHC Hire Services.

WHC Hire Services’ focus on safety for customers and businesses has been recognised by RoSPA in its 2013 Awards.

WHC also continues its safety related work in other innovative areas. Its unique ‘Track-lock’ system is gaining widespread interest throughout the industry. www.whchireservices.com / www.nexuscl.com

HAYWARD WRIGHT BRANCHES OUT Hayward Wright Chartered Accountants continues to grow and has opened a third office in the West Midlands. Hayward Wright has been based in Redditch for the past seven years and has grown every year.

In 2011 Hayward Wright opened a Worcester office to help with the growing demand for their services, particularly from the Worcester business community.

This has further established them in Worcester and given them the platform to branch out further.

Hayward Wright has three offices in Redditch, Worcester and now Cheltenham. The new office will allow Hayward Wright to share their bespoke accountancy out into a new area, build new relationships and keep the firm growing. Hayward Wright offers a bespoke service for their clients giving them the support and guidance to reach their business and personal goals through expert advice. www.haywardwright.co.uk

CHAMBER HR WEBSITE AND ADVICE LINE

Trained HR Professionals are on hand 24 hours a day to offer advice on employment issues via the telephone or dedicated website.

Contact your Chamber representative for a Username and Password.

Website: www.hwchamber/hr.website-and-advice-line Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

EMPLOYMENT LAW WORKSHOPS POPULAR WITH BUSINESSES A programme of employment law workshops run by county law firm mfg Solicitors is proving to be a big hit with businesses from across the two counties.

The firm launched the new-look series of workshops last November to help businesses and HR professionals understand latest employment law changes, how to tackle them and to encourage the sharing of best practice.

GOOD INTENTS RELOCATE TO CENTRE OF LEDBURY Marquee suppliers Good Intents Ltd are delighted to be relocating their operating centre from a rural location to the centre of Ledbury, which will enable the business to run more efficiently and raise their local profile.

Over the past 10 years Good Intents has completed some outstanding contracts with multi-tiered structures using their revolutionary scaffold sub floor system, and have supplied marquees for weddings, hospitality and corporate use. The family business is continuing to invest and achieve high standards despite the economic downturn. They are one of very few companies to have earned CHAS Accreditation, opening doors to many public sector procurement officers.

Directors Bruce and Lucy Schofield strive to be one step ahead of the competition and are looking forward to the addition of a new modern structure from the USA for this summer, which will add another dimension to the marquee business.

Hosted by Partner and Head of Employment Sally Morris, the practical four-hour sessions are held on alternate months and now see up to 20 local businesses attending each time.

Sally said: “The employment law landscape has changed considerably in recent years so our workshops are really popular.

People can not only get accurate and straight-talking advice, but Sally Morris they can network, debate the big issues and see how other businesses and HR teams are approaching any changes or issues. Feedback has been tremendous.”

The next workshop will take place at mfg’s Adam House offices in Kidderminster on Thursday 12 September at 9am and costs £15 per person.

01905 734039 to book or email elizabeth.wiltshire@mfgsolicitors.com www.mfgsolicitors.com

www.goodintents.co.uk

TECHNOLOGY COMPANY OFFICIALLY OPENS ITS DOORS The ‘what’s your postcode?’ company Postcode Anywhere were recently delighted to officially open their doors to customers, partners and friends to celebrate and reflect on its incredible journey.

Oaker Wood Leisure is preparing for their first few residential camps of the season and preparations are made all the easier thanks to a grant they received from the European Regional Development Fund through the Shropshire and Herefordshire Business Enterprise Fund.

The eco loo was built by another local company, Biological Design, who have built many ‘tree bogs’, as they like to call them, for sites and festivals across the country.

As the company has now settled into its new headquarters in the recently rejuvenated Diglis Basin, the directors felt it would present an ideal opportunity to say thank you to all its supporters.

www.postcodeanywhere.co.uk

GRANT HELPS OUTDOOR ACTIVITY COMPANY TO BECOME MORE ECO FRIENDLY

David Davies, Owner of Oaker Wood Leisure, said: “The grant helped pay for an Eco Friendly Compost loo for the onsite group residential campsite and the installation of a bore hole.

Both of them add to the ethos of the site of being environmentally friendly.”

Set up in 2001 by Guy Mucklow and Jamie Turner, the company has grown to become one of the leading providers of web based addressing software in the UK, accounting for over 1 in every 2 addresses looked up in website check out forms.

Worcester City MP, Robin Walker, volunteered to open the building commenting: “As a Member of the Select Committee for Business Innovation and Skills, I have recently called for an inquiry into the future of the retail sector. Postcode Anywhere’s success is a reminder that there are huge opportunities as well as challenges in the changes taking place.”

David Davies putting the bleach in the bin now that the Eco-friendly loo is on site

Bookings for 2013 are up compared to previous years and the company puts this down to the investments and improvements made over the winter months. Other improvements include new tents and the arrival of Olympic Bunk beds which Oaker Wood purchased from the Olympic Village.

Robin Walker MP, opening Postcode Anywhere’s new offices

www.oakerwoodleisure.co.uk

FUNDING FINDER

A funding search which provides details of a range of funding opportunities and grants available to businesses, including European, public sector, lottery, Venture Capital and loan funds. Chamber members have the additional benefit of email alerts when new relevant funding opportunities are available.

Tel: 0845 614 1641 or email www.hwchamber.co.uk/funding-finder 08 BD14.indd 8

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BUSINESSNEWS

VEHICLE TUNING COMPANY CEO WINS PRESTIGIOUS ENVIRONMENT AWARD Paul Busby of Viezu Technologies, a Bromsgrove based company, has been named as the CEO of the Year at The 2013 People and Environment Achievement Business Awards in London.

Design Religion’s Greg Russell and Martin Pope at Sixways

AHEAD OF THE GAME - TO TAKE WARRIORS’ BRAND FORWARD Worcester Warriors have appointed Design Religion as their new official creative partner and official community partner.

Winning the five-way pitch, Design Religion will be providing Worcester Warriors with exclusive brand,

design and creative consultancy. The appointment is now newly underway.

Scytale provides the user with Internet, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), Satellite and GSM mobile phone coverage on a global scale. These communications are established in less

www.viezu.com

www.designreligion.co.uk

than 10 minutes and have the potential to drastically reduce response time in the event of a natural disaster or national emergency.

Gemma Greenman, Marketing Executive for GRC, said: “The Scytale launch was a huge success for GRC. The entire process, from the spark of an idea, to design, manufacture and launch took little over six months to complete.

I think this really proves GRC’s credentials as an innovative, flexible and rapid moving company.” www.grcltd.net

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Paul commented: “It’s a great honour and privilege to be named as CEO of the Year, especially so as these awards concentrate on how green initiatives can be good

In winning the CEO of the Year accolade, judges were looking for a visionary leader who most clearly demonstrated an outstanding commitment to sustainability in their market, along with personal contribution to the organisation’s growth built on green credentials.

Based in Diglis Basin, Design Religion has been established since 2004 and its client base includes local and national names such as Aston Martin Racing, Martini, McMinn Developments, MIRA, P&S Tools, Samuel Taylor Ltd, Unity Trust Bank and Victoria Carpets.

SCYTALE LAUNCH AT GRC GRC in Hereford recently celebrated the launch of an innovative new product, Scytale. Scytale is the result of a six-month design and development process generated by a requirement from Vodafone. The launch event was well attended by a diverse range of interested customers representing the Armed Forces, Security and Broadcasting sectors.

The founder of one of the world’s leading vehicle tuning companies collected the prestigious award, which recognised his individual endeavours in helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

for business as well as the planet, which Viezu has been working hard to achieve with its market-leading BlueOptimize™ vehicle tuning products.”

NEW BRANCH AND TRAINING ACADEMY BRINGS JOBS Chamber member eResponse Recruitment has unveiled its new offices and training academy in Kidderminster.

The recruitment specialists, who also have branches in Worcester and Redditch, have invested £40,000 into the refurbishment of the 3,200 square-foot facility in the town’s Church Street, a move which has also created seven new jobs.

The new training centre can cater for up to 70 people every day and offers sessions on a whole host of qualifications including Health and

Safety, Security, Manual Handling, Fire Safety, First Aid and Administration Skills.

Amy Byng, Manager of eResponse’s new branch, said: “As a business, we are growing year-on-year and are delighted to have opened our new Kidderminster offices. Our move into the town not only boosts the local job market, but through our training centre, people can learn with us and then find jobs and placements in the specific sectors they have trained in.” www.e-responserecruitment.co.uk

09 2/7/13 09:41:53

MAD

MAD ABOUT WELL BEING Momentum Action Learning Development NEW DYNAMIC DUO We provide innovative and creative solutions that are highly practical and useful. our approach will change the way you view yourself and your actions and provide a catalyst for positive change.

STRESS PROOFING MAD’s approach to the pressures of modern living is attracting attention.

MAN STRESS Zebras and lions may see trouble coming in the next minute and mobilize a stress-response in anticipation, but they can’t get stressed about events that are far in the future. sometimes we men can be stressed by things that simply make no sense to zebras or lions.

Man stress helps build awareness of the interface between physical habits and your emotional connections to the world. Designed specifically for men, it requires a different kind of body awareness than used in the gym or fitness studio. It also brings together theory about the relationship between pressure and stress, the impact of stress on the body and brain, and emotional intelligence (EQ).

WOMEN UNDER PRESSURE Females respond to stressful situations by protecting themselves and their young through nurturing behaviour.

Women have developed a completely different system for coping with stress partly because their responses evolved in the context of being the primary caregiver of their children.

Stress management for Women recognises that there are systems that are as old as fight-or-flight that are tremendously important.

Discover how a better sense of physical self can help you deal with the stresses of modern life. info@madassociates.co.uk

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All your business needs.

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FOCUSONlegal

End of time : Tenancy renewal and termination Part 2 of 2 The compensation payable is a multiple of the rateable value (usually one), but this multiplier may be doubled if the tenant has been in occupation for 14 years or more.

A landlord may draft the lease so as to exclude such right to compensation but this clause will not be effective if a tenant has been in occupation more than 5 years. A tenant may also be entitled to compensation for improvements they have carried out at the premises with the landlord’s consent.

The terms of a new tenancy In this the second of a two part guide, David Bayliss, commercial solicitor at QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright, explains some points to consider when a commercial lease (that gives a tenant legal rights to remain in the premises and renew the tenancy) is coming to an end.

Grounds for refusing a renewal of a tenancy A landlord can oppose an application for a new tenancy on certain defined grounds including: • • • • • •

a tenant’s failure to repair; persistent delays in rent payment; breaches of other obligations; where the landlord can offer reasonable alternative accommodation; where the landlord has a firm intention to demolish or reconstruct the premises; or where the landlord has held its interest for 5 years and has a firm intention to occupy the premises for their own business or residence.

Compensation for non-renewal

If a tenant has a right in the lease or other contractual option to renew the lease, the new terms will generally be negotiated by their respective professional advisers based on the old lease. Alternatively, a tenant may have applied to Court for the grant of a new lease under the statutory tenancy renewal procedure.

Hopefully, the tenant and the landlord will agree the terms of a new lease between themselves and in practice this is the normal route. However, if this proves impossible, the court will have to decide.

If you are a tenant or a landlord, contact David Bayliss in good time before your lease is set to end so that you obtain the best advice on your options.

If you would like a copy of both parts of this advice, or to book a free initial discussion, contact David Bayliss:

T:

01905 726 789

E: dab@parkinsonwright.co.uk W: qualitysolicitors.com/parkinsonwright

When a lease is terminated, a tenant may lose the goodwill they have built up and incur relocation costs. The tenant may be entitled to compensation if a landlord successfully objects to the grant of a new tenancy because of a firm intention to demolish or develop or occupy the premises themselves and, as a result, the tenant fails to obtain a new tenancy.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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H

BUSINESSNEWS

SPECIAL EVENTS AT SIXWAYS STADIUM Sixways Stadium has so much to offer over the next coming months. Kicking off with Ladies Night on Friday 2 August priced at just £25 per person including a one course meal. A great way for the girls to come and let their hair down and enjoy live entertainment courtesy of The Pleasure Boys.

The ever popular Sportsman’s dinner returns to Sixways with legendary former British Heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno on Friday 6 September followed by All Black phenomenon Jonah Lomu on Saturday 12 October. These unique black tie events include a three course meal, live auction and photo opportunities. Both are priced at £49 per person.

The start of the Aviva Premiership season would not be the same without the annual Chairman’s Lunch.

Worcester Warriors Chairman Cecil Duckworth welcomes guest speaker BBC Sports presenter John Inverdale. John will host this special event and will be joined by the Worcester Warriors players. Price is £55 per person, which includes a sumptuous three course meal. www.sixwaysevents.co.uk

£1 MILLION REFURBISHMENT COMPLETED AT WHARTON PARK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB The owners of Wharton Park Golf & Country Club near Bewdley have recently announced the completion of a £1 million refurbishment of its clubhouse facilities.

Members of Bishop Fleming’s tax team celebrate their win at the LexisNexis Taxations Awards in London

WEST MIDLAND’S FASTEST GROWING ACCOUNTANTS VOTED UK’S TOP REGIONAL TAX TEAM Accountancy firm, Bishop Fleming, which has an office in Worcester, has won the national title as the best tax practice in a regional firm

The popular club, which boasts a 6455-yard, 18-hole championship course, was taken over by Alan Umbers, wife Anne and daughter Stacie in 2010.

Three years on, and with the club celebrating its 20th anniversary, the impressive seven-figure overhaul includes three new-look bars and restaurants, refreshed function rooms for weddings and other celebrations, seven boutique-style bedrooms and an extended golf shop.

Stacie Umbers, Managing Director at Wharton Park, said: “With the help of our team we have completed what we think is a fantastic refurbishment. It allows us to offer first-class facilities which are really helping to entice local people and visitors into the club and into Bewdley.”

Planning permission has also been granted for a state-of-the-art driving range.

• • • • • • • •

and and pers

www.whartonpark.co.uk

The tax team at Bishop Fleming, already Britain’s fastest growing Top 50 accountancy firm, was announced the winner of the 2013 LexisNexis Taxation Award at a black-tie event attended by 700 tax professionals at London’s Hilton Park Lane Hotel.

Frank Bruno

As to bu

Rupe

Busi

www.bishopfleming.co.uk

THE ALL NEW SOUTHCREST MANOR HOTEL & SPA The future looks extremely bright at the Southcrest Manor Hotel & Spa after undergoing a £500,000 investment with additional plans for the future.

Not forgetting local business, the Manor is a buzz of activity with business men and women meeting for a quick catch up over coffee or lunch overlooking the beautiful 10 acre landscape in the new look conservatory.

Newly appointed General Manager, Chris Osborne, with his new Head Chef and Management Team have certainly made waves, with increased interest in the venue and its events.

be pr

www.southcrestmanorhotel.com

Exciting new menus to tempt you include a fabulous new buffet breakfast, Conservatory snack menu and sumptuous new dinner menus too. You don’t even have to be a resident of the 60 bedroom hotel to enjoy these delights, whether it be a private dinner, a lunchtime snack, or a more formal event or wedding celebration, all you have to do is call in, or speak to one of the new experienced sales co-ordinators, who will be more than happy to help you with any questions.

Jo Hu

Alan, Anne and Stacie Umbers at Wharton Park Golf & Country Club

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CHAMBER LEGAL ADVICE LINE

This service offers members unlimited access to free help and advice on commercial and employment law, environmental health, taxation and VAT issues.

Website: wwwhwchamber.co.uk/legal-advice-line

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The (CM

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Herefordshire College of Technology Management and HR Courses As an employer, we know that you want the best from your team. One way that this can be achieved is to support professional development. At HCT we provide a range of high quality and well respected business based programmes across a range of levels: • • • • • • • •

CIPD Award in Coaching and Mentoring Level 3 CMI Diploma in First Line Management Level 3 ILM Coaching and Mentoring Level 4 CIPD Diploma in Human Resource Practice Level 3 CIPD Diploma in Human Resources Management Level 5 CMI in Management and Leadership Level 5 Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Level 7 HNC in Business Management

I have had plenty of opportunity to use my new skills at work. The Personal Development Plan, which we put together at the start of the course, allowed me to develop my strengths in the workplace and to improve as a manager. I have used the knowledge I have gained and it has often caused me to view situations at work from a different perspective.

Rupert Lawrence, Management and Leadership Level 5 Business Solutions Officer, Herefordshire Housing Limited

Having become a HR Manager, I was keen to complement my experience and develop my knowledge and skills with a professionally recognised HR qualification. My employer has been very supportive and I am already putting my new abilities into practice.

Joanne Moore, Management and Leadership Level 5 Human Resource & Governance Manager, Learning Disability Wales

Managers rated business school qualifications, professional bodies’ qualifications and Chartered Manager as the top three most effective ways of developing their abilities. Professional bodies’ qualifications are viewed as particularly important at the early stages of a management career.

I wanted some training to make sure I was doing the very best for my team - it was also a good opportunity to share best practice. I have been able to take much of my training back into the workplace.

Emma Deer, Management and Leadership Level 5 Finance Manager, Allpay Limited

I have been able to build upon my current accounting and retail skills which has been very useful.

Matthew Robinson, Diploma in First Line Management Level 3 Store Assistant B&Q

For more details on these courses please call 0800 032 1986 and quote ref: BD613 or visit www.hct.ac.uk

The Business Benefits of Management and Leadership Development (CMI) February 2012

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ADVERTORIAl Bill Ballard, Jeremy Syree, James Syree, Liz Peters, Matthew Watson

Senior Management Team: Steven Jones, Michelle Hammett and Paul Gee

PROFESSIONAL ACCOLADE FOR DROITWICH FIRM Partners and employees at Droitwich-based accountancy practice Ballard Dale Syree Watson LLP are celebrating as they have secured the title Accountancy Firm of the Year 2013 in the West Midlands.

Jeremy Syree with accounts trainee Amy Procter Nicholls

The Accountancy Firm of the Year award was bestowed upon Ballards by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). They won the title in the category for practices with no more than 5 partners.

The prestigious ICAEW awards seek to recognise the achievements of its members throughout the West Midlands. Droitwich based Ballards are thrilled to win the award, as they fought off stiff competition from similarly structured rivals in and around Birmingham City and some excellent practices throughout the region.

Business development director Steven Jones maintains that the firm’s success is due to a number of factors, but building strong relationships with its diverse client base has certainly been key.

Ballards have built up a substantial portfolio of clients from private and public sector organisations.

It specialises in providing services to healthcare professionals as well as having roots in farming and rural businesses. The firm also acts for a broad spectrum of businesses, from emerging technology companies to traditional manufacturers. It also continues to support its ethos of looking after the accountancy needs of local ‘owner managed businesses’ (OMBs).

The personal development and training needs of junior members of staff through a continuing nurturing and mentorship process is also high on the firm’s agenda.

The practice has been successful in attracting fast-track graduates from red brick universities, as well as people wishing to attain qualification through vocational training and part-time study.

Ballards also seem to be appealing to more experienced accountancy professionals that have worked in some of the larger national multi-site practices. Mr Jones believes that the firm’s success is largely due to its specialist approach and really understanding the needs of specialist sectors. www.ballardsca.com

The five senior partners at the practice, including founder Bill Ballard, pride themselves on investing a high degree of personal contact with both existing and new clients.

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INTERNATIONAlTRADE

MARKET VISIT TO POLAND Monday 2 to Thursday 5 September 2013, Kielce Businesses are invited to join a Defence & Security Focused Trade Mission to Kielce MSPO 2013 being led by UKTI Herefordshire & Worcestershire.

Defence & Security is one of the 6 key sectors for UK business in Poland. Public security is high on the Polish government agenda and this market is predicted to be worth £2.5bn annually by 2015. Poland’s defence sector has seen a rapid change since the fall of communism and Poland’s accession to the EU and Nato. Defence improvements by 2019 are worth at least £6bn.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

UKTI SUPPORTS ATMAN STRATEGY TO WIN CONTRACT IN MALAYSIA Worcester-based Training and Consultancy company Atman Strategy Ltd have recently secured their first training partnership in South East Asia: Malaysia and Indonesia following support from the UKTI Team based at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

Atman Strategy’s Managing Director Tony Copeman first discovered there was a demand for the range of leadership, management, sales and soft skills training they provide when he was asked to deliver tender procurement training to the Oil and Gas and Banking Sectors in March 2012. At this time, he spoke to UKTI Advisor Paul Thompson, who organised for representatives of the company to attend a reception at the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur. An event that led to joining a trade mission to Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong in May 2012, which was arranged as part of the UKTI Market Visit Support Programme and followed the Prime Minister, David Cameron’s, trade visit a few weeks earlier.

During the trade mission they met with Dr Prof Ravindran Pathmanathan, the Managing Director of a corporate training and development organisation with representation across Malaysia and Indonesia. Since then they have been in negotiation, with a partnership contract being signed last month that means that

he can now deliver accredited training courses on behalf of Atman Strategy throughout the region. The courses that will be offered include: sales, account management, organisational development, team building and leadership skills.

The UKTI Market Visit Support programme allows companies to visit overseas markets where UKTI has a presence, either as part of an organised group, or, where appropriate, on an individual basis. Companies receive support in preparing for the visit, ensuring that the company is properly prepared to make the most of their time in the market, and UKTI can provide funding to assist with travel and accommodation costs. The purpose of the visit can vary from market research, visiting potential sales leads, attending trade fairs and meeting prospective agents or distributors.

UK expertise is highly valued by the Polish defence and security sector and small and medium-sized companies have been successfully selling their products to all segments of the sector from battlefield/soldiers’ to command centres equipment.

The visit will be to provide an opening for West Midlands SMEs to access these opportunities by visiting a key exhibition and working in conjunction with the local UKTI commercial team.

Target companies will be those operating directly within the Defence & Security sectors and others involved in Advanced Manufacturing looking to access this important growth sector in Poland £250 travel grant for eligible companies Nick Corley Tel: 0845 6411512 Mobile: 07730 982728 Email: n.corley@uktiwm.co.uk

Tony Copeman, Managing Director of Atman Strategy said: “The service received from UKTI was superb and they have been with us all the steps of the way. In particular we would like to thank Paul Thompson for his support and guidance.”

If you are interested in finding out more about the Market Visit Support programme or other export programmes offered by UKTI please contact the UKTI Team on 0845 641 1613 or email

internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk

TRANSLATION AND INTERPRETATION

75% of the worlds population don’t speak English. Translators and interpretors on behalf of the Chamber are highly skilled in more than 150 languages to help trading overseas easier.

Website: www.hwchamber.co.uk/translation-and-interpretation

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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INTERNATIONAlTRADE

THE TRAINER: SANDRA STRONG Sandra has 29 years experience in international trade, from desk-level to becoming the corporate shipping manager for the Ferranti International Group until its break-up in 1993, when, after 2 years working for the receivers, Strong & Herd was formed.

She was a graduate member of the Institute of Export & International Trade (IoE) until awarded a Fellowship of the Institute in 2011 for services to UK Companies involved in all areas of international trade. She is also a Certified International Trade Advisor and a member of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). She is a National Councillor for the Institute of Export (and northwest branch committee member), an enthusiastic member of the British Exporters Association (BEXA) and a number of Chambers’ International Trade Forums. She recently sat on the UK ICC Review Committee for the changes to the Incoterms® 2010 rules and is active in the North West Export Hub along with HSBC, AON, Pinsent Masons, RSM Tenon, UKTI and HMRC. She continues to have hands-on involvement in export and import on a daily basis. In addition, she assists companies in operating compliant customs procedures such as IPR, OPR, End-Use (predominantly Civil Aircraft and Military), AEO application and procedures, PCC, Intrastat reporting systems, Export Control Regulations (both UK and USA, eg ITAR) and Letter of Credit procedures. She presents practical in-company and public workshops (throughout the EU) that reflect the very latest in export and import techniques with useful tips on how to put theory into practice.

Since 1999 she has worked closely with HM Revenue & Customs in presenting awareness workshops covering all aspects of customs procedures, eg new procedures such as ECS/ AEO, tariff classification, origin and preference, valuations rules. These “spotlight” presentations focus on current issues and changes affecting companies involved in international trade.

de i S s u o eri S e h T ing t r o p x of E

r nce fo a d i u rs ical G Pract ping Exporte o Devel

Follow her on Twitter at:

http://twitter.com/SandraStrong

EXPORT DOCUMENTATION

The E-cert online provides you with a fast, easy and secure way of submitting your export documentation.

Chamber Members receive a 50% discount. Website: www.hwchamber.co.uk/exportdocumentation

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INTERNATIONAlTRADE

BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO EXPORT LICENSING CONTROLS ON GOODS, TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE The Herefordshire and Worcestershire region has more than the average number of high-tech businesses and companies supplying military designed goods both within the UK and outside. This brings with it a number of compliance issues and, though the UK Government, UKTI and the Chamber network do their very best in providing support in these specially controlled areas, some businesses still don’t know that they come under specific regulations - especially if shipping goods, software and/or technology outside the UK. Unfortunately, they don’t know until their goods are stopped by customs or they get a visit from HM Revenue & Customs. The penalties are not to be ignored: n Strict liability offence, e.g. export or attempted export of controlled goods/technology without a licence n Goods liable to seizure n Penalty of up to 3x the value of the goods/ technology n With knowledge of Weapons of mass destruction end-use, up to 2 years imprisonment n Deliberate act with intent to evade controls n Magistrates court - £5,000 or 3x value of the goods (whichever greater) and/or 6 months imprisonment n Crown Court - 10 years imprisonment and/ or unlimited fine Sounds scary – but only around 5% of UK exports come under these controls. As an exporter you legally have to know if and when these controls affect you.

There are two levels of export licensing controls Goods and technology specifically designed for military use and high grade/high technology products which, though not designed for military use, could be used in that area. These are known as strategic goods.

In addition, exporters must also be aware of current embargoes and sanctions levied by a number of bodies and authorities including the UK, EU, USA, UN and OSCE and the “Catch-All” controls that relate to goods/technology that may be used in any nuclear explosive activity or unsafeguarded nuclear fuel cycle.

If you are asked to specially design, develop, adapt, configure or re-configure goods or technology for a military end-use then you will come under the Military List controls and an export licence will be required before you can supply the technology or goods outside the UK. If you don’t specially design for military end-use you can still be caught under the regulations if the inherent capabilities of your products mean they would be ‘useful’ in such an environment without modification.

This can include the fact that goods have a high level of encryption built-in. These are called dual-use goods – a very misunderstood phrase. Firstly, dual-use does not mean something used by both military and civil end-users it comes down to its technical capabilities.

Some examples of products/ technology defined as dual-use include (but not exclusive to): n The inherent capabilities can be the materials they are made of e.g. withstanding very high or low temperatures like some o-rings, seals made of specific types of fluorinated compounds n Materials, metals or semi-produced items, e.g. nickel tubes/ pipes specially designed for named products, e.g. heat exchangers n Equipment used to manufacture or test high tech items, e.g. lathes n Chemicals and related items, e.g. glass flask that can withstand very high/low temperatures without breaking n Para-military items, including security and surveillance equipment n Electronics (e.g. microprocessors), computer and telecommunications equipment dependent on their technical capabilities n Encryption levels in goods (e.g. servers, routers) and software n Cutting-edge technology in the field, e.g. laser technology n Some aerospace, marine and satellite goods The full UK Strategic Export Controls Lists can be found at www.gov.uk

The levels of technology on which the dual-use regulations are set are based on a multi-country agreement called the Wassenaar Arrangement. Full member countries include all EU member states (except Cyprus) plus Australia, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, New Zealand, Canada and the USA. There are also other observer countries. Each country then sets out its own dual-use controls based on the Wassenaar Arrangement. In the USA, dual-use regulations are within the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and products are either EAR99 (below the level of control) or given a specific category number called an Export Classification Code Number or ECCN, (e.g. 5A001). The UK has a common Dual-Use List within the EU, but this doesn’t mean you can just move items caught under these controls around without doing anything – you must maintain a register and make statement to the fact they are controlled on invoices and other commercial paperwork.

The good news is that if you are caught under these export control regulations the UK has a wonderful system of General Authorisation, which takes some of the administrative burden away. But, unfortunately, as always, ignorance is not a defence.

If you are concerned that you may be exporting products that come under dual-use or military design controls you can get more information from the www.gov.uk website in particular n www.gov.uk/controls-on-dual-use-goods n www.gov.uk/faqs-licensing-of-controlled-goodsfaqs n www.gov.uk/electronic-transfer-abroad-ofcontrolled-military-technology-and-software Also, you may like to consider registering for updates on the Export Control Organisation (ECO) website http:// blogs.bis.gov.uk/exportcontrol/ and/or for the electronic system of rating products/ technology and licence applications called SPIRE at www.spire.bis.gov.uk Alternatively, contact your local Chamber of Commerce for advice on 0845 641 1613, internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk, www.hwchamber.co.uk/doing-business-overseas

0845 641 1613 internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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POLICY

ACCESS TO START UP LOANS AVAILABLE TO OVER-30S

Entrepreneurs and small business owners over the age of 30 will soon be able to access Start Up loans from the Government to help make their business dreams a reality.

The scheme, whose Chairman is former Dragons Den star James Caan, was originally aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs. However, following the acceptance of the recommendations made in a recent report by Enterprise Advisor Lord Young, Start Up loans are expected to be available to over-30s from this summer.

For more information on Start Up loans visit: http://www.startuploans.co.uk/

INWARD INVESTMENT IN THE UK Unlike most of its competitors, the UK isn’t just an investment destination: rather, it is an investment multiplier, a springboard to international growth that upgrades the value of a company’s investment.

The UK, in itself, offers the best of international business. Companies don’t do business in the UK just because they’re interested in the prosperous UK market. They also come here to become global.

In 2011/12, the UK attracted 1,406 new investments, which created or safeguarded 112,659 jobs. Of those, UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) helped to land 1,172 investments, generating 60,486 jobs.

Deciding where to locate your international business is often a long and involved process. It is UKTI’s job to know the UK’s strengths and where investment opportunities exist. UKTI works with a range of professional advisors to support their overseas clients who are expanding to the UK, or that have already established UK operations.

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Clients’ needs can be wide ranging and technical.

Because of this, we want to work together with you to support your investment journey. UKTI offers an unrivalled service dedicated to working with you to bring your operations to the UK and to support existing investors in expanding their UK operations.

To find out more about how UKTI can provide you with the tools to map your business ambitions in the UK, contact their expert team. www.ukti.gov.uk

WAGE INCENTIVES NOW EXTENDED NATIONALLY THROUGH JOBCENTRE PLUS The Youth Contract wage incentive which allows businesses to claim up to £2,275 for recruiting a new member of staff that is aged 18 – 24 years old who is unemployed through Jobcentre Plus has been extended.

Applying for a wage incentive is simple. To find out more talk to Jobcentre `Plus - they will give you advice on eligibility and support to find the right person for the job.

For more information contact Mike Dzioba on 01342 363670 or email at

michael.dzioba@jobcentreplus.gsi.gov.uk

July/August 2013

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INVESTING IN HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE

TOYOTA CONTINUE TO EXPAND AND INVEST IN THE CITY Demolition work has started as Westlands Toyota start work on transforming Victoria Works, the former IJF Body Repair Centre, into its new dealership on the Bromyard Road in Worcester. The £1 million investment by the Westlands Motor Group in redeveloping the building will transform the site and reflect Toyota’s brand new corporate identity emphasising the company’s on-going commitment to the city in line with strategic expansion plans. Westland also represent Toyota in Bromsgrove, Hereford and Stourbridge and Hyundai in Gloucester.

The plan that will guide South Worcestershire’s economic and housing growth until 2030 has recently been submitted to the Department for Communities and Local Government.

The South Worcestershire Development Plan (SWDP) is being jointly prepared by Malvern Hills District Council, Worcester City Council and Wychavon District Council. Once adopted, it will form the basis for planning decisions across South Worcestershire until 2030.

Mark Roden, Westlands Managing Director, stated that: “The investment to relocate from the existing Toyota dealership in Hallow will enhance the brand’s prominence for the benefit of both existing customers and prospects in line with the increased interest in the Toyota brand as a whole raft of new models are being introduced. It therefore forms a significant part of the group’s strategic development.” www.harrislamb.com www.westlandsworcester.toyota.co.uk

VISION FOR FUTURE SUBMITTED TO GOVERNMENT

Mark Roden Managing Director Westlands Toyota with Lance Turner Director of Harris Lamb

Submission of the Plan to the Government is a major milestone in the process. It will trigger an examination, and a hearing is expected to be held in public in Worcester in the late summer. That will lead to a Planning Inspector’s report, expected to be issued in late 2013, on whether the Plan can proceed to adoption by each of the three councils.

Submission of the Plan follows the recent revocation of the West Midlands Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS), which had previously guided planning policy.

Submission of the draft Plan follows a technical consultation in January which tested that the plan complies with the necessary legal requirements and is ‘sound.’ It attracted 1,860 representations.

Details of this recent consultation, and the full content of the submitted draft Plan, are at www.swdevelopmentplan.org

HELPING MAKE HEREFORD A BRIGHTER PLACE In December 2012 Sir Robert McAlpine, the main developer for the exciting £90m development in Hereford City, approached local business Signs & Labels Hereford to tender for the manufacture and installation of hoarding boards to promote this new and prestigious development.

the road closure on Newmarket Street, the job was completed on time. John Hughes, Director of Signs and Labels Hereford, said: “Since then we have had really lovely feedback from the local public and customers alike, and we are both pleased and proud to say we have helped make Hereford a brighter place.”

Signs & Labels Hereford were delighted to be awarded the contract and with a tight deadline to meet due to

www.signslabelshereford.co.uk

WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUB REDEVELOPMENT UPDATE

The multi-million pound investment will create 25,000 square feet of office and lab space on the park, which could create up to 150 new jobs.

Already one of the most significant employers in the area, being home to 23 businesses with more than 300 staff, the “phase 4” development has been backed by Malvern Hills District Council and Worcestershire County Council.

He said: “This is excellent news. The development will not only safeguard existing jobs within our 23 companies but also provide the right environment for these - and other - high-growth technology companies to flourish and grow new jobs here in Worcestershire.

This ambitious project sees the addition of the following main features to the New Road leisure complex: • Four-storey, 120 bedroom Premier Inn Hotel.

• Hospitality and Conference Facilities including Executive Suite offering unparalleled views.

The Club Facilities are scheduled for completion in August, with the Premier Inn opening for business in November.

• A Sports Bar available for non-members.

www.wccc.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Malvern Hills District Council has given planning consent for a scheme to expand Malvern Hills Science Park.

Science Park Chief Executive, Alan White, welcomed the decision.

The current £10million redevelopment project at Worcestershire County Cricket Club is nearing completion.

• New Reception Area, Club Offices and Meeting Rooms

PLANNING GO-AHEAD FOR BIGGER SCIENCE PARK

“Indeed, an economic impact assessment has estimated that Phase 4 will generate an extra £1.3 - £2 million annually for the local economy, which is great news for Malvern and the wider county.”

Work will start at the end of this year. www.mhsp.co.uk

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BUSINESSNEWS

RETIREMENT SCHEMES TRANSFORMED FOR RESIDENTS Two landmark retirement schemes in Worcester have undergone a major transformation following a £3 million makeover by leading housing and care provider Sanctuary Group.

Noele Court and Warmstry Court, both located at the heart of the city, have received a multi-million pound refurbishment which was celebrated at two special tea party events for residents and invited guests.

The makeovers began in February last year and have seen improvements to the 64 apartments at the two schemes, including stylish new kitchens and bathrooms and completely revamped shared facilities such as lounges, where residents can enjoy some companionship.

DRPGROUP OPENS ITS DOORS TO KIDDERMINSTER COLLEGE STUDENTS Local Worcestershire based business the drpgroup gave students from Kidderminster College the opportunity to see how the business works, while Managing Director of the drpgroup Dale Parmenter shared his thoughts and opinions on business factors and how he began his own career path.

The day was an opportunity for the students to experience the facilities at drpgroup and also gain

more knowledge of what is involved in running an award-winning agency.

Most of the students are looking to their future and making decisions regarding what career they would like to embark on. This tour gave them the chance to see all departments within drpgroup and network with the drpteam, benefiting from their insight.

Simon Clark, Managing Director for Sanctuary Housing Services, said: “With the support and involvement of the residents, these two schemes have been completely transformed.

The improvements have taken account of future needs of residents should they change and the new features are stylish and homely. Residents played an integral role in shaping how the finished schemes look, including selecting their preferred options for the interior design of communal areas, and the finished results look amazing.” www.sanctuary-group.co.uk

www.drpgroup.com

PIONEERING SCHEME TO CREATE THE NEXT GENERATION OF BUSINESS LEADERS A unique pioneering scheme to find 200 of the next generation of the Midlands business leaders and entrepreneurs has been launched. great200leaders is a personal performance and business growth scheme created by Birmingham City Council as part of the Business Development Programme and targets individuals in the Birmingham and Solihull LEP area. great200leaders will offer 200 business owners or managers the opportunity to work in one of three working groups, and receive 100 hours of support through a coaching and mentoring programme.

The scheme is part funded by ERDF, and each participant has to contribute one third of the cost, £2,000+VAT To apply for the coaching and mentoring programme contact

david.ledbury@growthaccelerator.com www.birmingham.gov.uk/bdp

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Carina Hillman, Stephanie Hughes, Ashley Greenway, Milly Kemp and Ella Hughes some of Marches Housing Association’s apprentices

APPRENTICES FLOURISH AT MARCHES HOUSING As Marches Housing Association looks for three new apprentices, last year’s, Stephanie Hughes and Ella Hughes are celebrating leaving their trainee boots behind and becoming permanent members of staff.

Since Marches started taking on apprentices in 2008, six have continued their careers at Marches after successfully applying for vacant positions. Karen Sheers, Head of Corporate Resources, says: “Whilst apprentices are encouraged to apply for vacant positions, a permanent job is not guaranteed at

the end of the apprentice contract. It is testament to the success of the scheme and the hard work of the apprentices that they have all gone on to find permanent positions, frequently before the end of their basic contract.”

Marches runs its apprenticeships in partnership with Herefordshire Group Training Association. HGTA provide assessment and certification of the National Vocational Qualifications undertaken by apprentices. www.marchesha.co.uk / www.hgta.org

July/August 2013

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ADVERTORIAl

FILLING THE CONSTRUCTION SKILLS-GAP In the fifth annual skills survey from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), the key findings indicated that 77% of respondents believe a skill shortage exists in the construction industry, a worrying trend illustrated by a 5% increase from the 2010 survey.

However, to ensure that your investment in pays off, it’s important to work closely with a training provider that can tailor their training programmes to develop your staff and take your business forward. Training providers need to play a role in supporting local businesses too, and that’s why NEW College prides itself in ensuring the delivery of work-ready candidates with the relevant knowledge and experience to fill the skills-gap.

In a separate survey from the CIOB, 79% of respondents believed that relevant and up-to-date Continuing Professional Development could assist in eliminating skills gaps within the construction industry.

The skills shortage and the pressure this places on employers is a common theme with nearly half of the 694 organisations surveyed by the Confederation of British Industry and the vocational qualifications body EDI telling researchers they were struggling to find staff with skills in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Hereford and Worcestershire has a number of training providers and pathways available for current staff and young people to develop the skills that businesses need, be it through work-based apprenticeships or via more traditional teaching methods.

“To show their commitment to training, NEW College are proud to announce the launch of a brand new state-of-the-art plumbing and gas centre in 2013 offering fully funded plumbing courses accredited by City & Guilds as well as A.C.S. gas qualifications. Find out more at www.discovernewcollege.com”

In the current economic climate it’s increasingly important develop the staff you already have. NEW College has the advantage of offering both basic skills and industry

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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standard qualifications. So whether your company needs a boost in terms of functional skills, plastering, carpentry, or complete professional qualifications in plumbing and gas, NEW College can offer a training programme that matches your requirements.

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conferenceworcestershire www.conference-worcestershire.org

CONFERENCE WORCESTERSHIRE MOVES INTO A NEW ERA WITH BOOKOTEL The Worcestershire based conference and event venue finding service Conference Worcestershire, which is now part of the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, has formed a brand new relationship with a Worcester based agency to help deliver a much improved service for conference and event organisers.

BookOTel is a Worcester based family owned business which was established in 1990 and has grown to be one of the largest and respected business travel agents in the UK, with vast experience in delivering a successful venue finding service.

between a 4 hour to 24 hour turn-around time for every enquiry.

The new partnership will also provide the BookOTel agents with a broader knowledge of what Worcestershire has to offer conference and event organisers by promoting Conference Worcestershire members to their already existing database of national and international clients.

If you would like to submit a conference or event enquiry please contact Conference Worcestershire on 01905 732962 or via email

conferenceworcs@bookotel.com

The new relationship will help to increase bookings via the Conference Worcestershire service by offering

FARNCOMBE CONFERENCE CENTRE: A NEW NAME – A NEW ERA Cotswold Conference Centre has gained an enviable reputation as one of the best Midlands venues to meet, train and teambuild. They have recently taken the decision to change their name and will now be known as Farncombe Conference Centre.

Farncombe, with its 89 bedrooms and 11 meeting rooms, is based on the beautiful 400-acre Farncombe Estate near Broadway. It is also home to Farncombe Courses (a programme of leisure weekends and study days) and Farncombe Events, for groups of all kinds.

Andrew Grahame, Chief Executive of Farncombe, said: “We felt that after 12 years it was time to bring all our businesses under a single Farncombe banner. As our businesses grow in strength, we believe the Farncombe brand will become synonymous with the best of hospitality in the best of locations.”

The Conference Centre comes with a long string of awards, including twice

REFURBISHMENT BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO ICONIC CHATEAU IMPNEY HOTEL

winning the VisitEngland national title for Business Tourism and a VenueVerdict Gold award from customers every year since the standard was launched in 2009.

The Farncombe family includes the prestigious four-star Dormy House Hotel, which is currently undergoing a £10m refurbishment. In 2014, the prestigious new House Spa will open its doors to hotel guests, spa members and day visitors. www.farncombeestate.co.uk/ conferencing

Droitwich-based Chateau Impney Hotel & Exhibition Centre has concluded the first phase of a major refurbishment programme which, when completed, will position the site as one of the UK’s leading hotel and exhibition venues.

The next phase of work, which has already commenced, will see the remainder of the bedrooms in the main Chateau building, its 41 Courtyard Rooms and nine self-catering apartments totally refurbished in grand style.

The three-month programme has seen the 106-bedroom property lavishly refurbish a quarter of its accommodation, while preserving the Chateau’s wealth of important historical features. Improvements have also been made to a number of other parts of the hotel, including its function rooms, the reception and bar areas, and the Chateau’s ornamental gardens. In addition, the hotel has been rebranded and launched a new website.

As well as the 106-bedroom hotel, the Chateau Impney site also boasts extensive conferencing and exhibition facilities, including the expansive Impney Regent Centre, and one of the largest exhibition spaces in the Midlands after the NEC. In recent years, the facilities have been under-utilised, something the new management team plans to rectify. www.chateau-impney.com

Room Hire

The opportunity to hire spacious and well-equipped rooms at the Chamber’s head office in Blackpole, Worcester.

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DESTINATIONworcestershire

SEVERN VALLEY RAILWAY VOLUNTEERS EARN ROYAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE The ‘outstanding achievement’ of volunteers at the Severn Valley Railway has been recognised with a prestigious national award, decided by The Queen herself.

CROOME’S RED WING RECEIVES BOOST WITH ‘BUY A BRICK’ A crumbling Grade 1 listed building at a local National Trust estate is receiving a boost to save it, thanks to the charity’s volunteers who are launching a ‘Buy a Brick’ appeal.

The Red Wing at Croome Court, near Pershore, is undergoing major restoration to stop it from collapsing after it was rescued from private ownership in 2011.

The appeal aims to raise thousands for the ‘Capability’ Brown designed building, which housed the servants’

quarters for the Court, by asking that £10 be donated for each brick.

By symbolically buying a brick you will be making a real difference to the project, and have your name recorded in an acknowledgement book on display in the Red Wing. The appeal will also make an interesting present for family or friends.

To buy a brick, visit Croome, call 01905 371006 or email croomepark@nationaltrust.org.uk

VISIT WORCESTERSHIRE INCREASES WEBSITE STATISTICS BY a third The Visit Worcestershire website statistics have increased from 35,066 in April 2013 to 46,805 in May 2013, which shows a fantastic growth of 33% and a significant increase in the amount of people using the website to find out about days out, short breaks and holidays in Worcestershire.

Victoria Carman, from Visit Worcestershire, puts this impressive increase down to the recent support she received from Malvern based digital marketing specialists SharpMonkeys. SharpMonkeys analysed the statistics for www. visitworcestershire.org and identified two areas where there could be improvements in organic Search

Engine Optimisation to help the website rank higher and increase visitor numbers, which has led to spectacular results in just a short space of time.

Visit Worcestershire will be continuing to work with SharpMonkeys to introduce a Google Adwords campaign during the summer for targeted keywords. There will also be the opportunity for tourism businesses to get expert advice and training via specialist training courses on Search Engine Optimisation and Social Media. More details will be available soon to Destination Worcestershire Members. www.sharpmonkeys.co.uk

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service rewards excellence and outstanding achievement by groups of volunteers who regularly devote their time to helping others in the community and providing an outstanding service.

One of the thousands of nominations received from across the UK, the SVR’s volunteers earned the Royal stamp of approval, steaming through regional and national committee assessments, before being selected by The Queen herself to receive the esteemed award.

Winners of what is regarded as ‘the MBE for voluntary organisations’ were officially announced yesterday to coincide with the anniversary of The Queen’s Coronation.

In celebration of the achievement, four long-standing volunteers from the Severn Valley Railway - Hugh McQuade, Columb Howell, Gary Williams and

Martin White were invited to sample some Royal hospitality at The Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

The four rubbed shoulders with The Queen, Princess Eugenie and the Princess Royal, who revealed she is a self-confessed steam enthusiast after once being invited to drive a steam train.

An impressive reminder of the award, a commemorative piece of crystal and certificate signed by The Queen will shortly be presented to the Railway by the Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, and will be displayed in pride of place. www.svr.co.uk

THE POWER OF MOBILE MESSAGING Alistair Shortland, CEO and Founder of Worcestershire based Textlocal, firmly believes that mobile is already vital for all businesses.

Today, people are busier than ever, and want to browse, consume, and communicate on the go, using their mobile phone. Smart businesses give their customers what they want.

Mobile messaging is an extremely powerful tool for businesses within the travel and tourism industry. It allows organisations, like travel agents, tour operators, travel networks and tourist attractions to engage and interact, on a personal level, with their customers at any time. Additionally, it’s fast, cost-effective and highly accountable, all great attributes for

the travel and tourism industry.

All businesses can benefit by increasing communication methods with potential customers, by introducing loyalty schemes for already existing customers as well as helping to increase the number of sales with new and existing customers. www.textlocal.com

‘HAVE YOUR SAY’ ABOUT A 4/5 STAR HOTEL IN WORCESTER CITY CENTRE

Visit Worcestershire is carrying out a piece of research on behalf of the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership to find out if there is demand for a 4 Star Hotel in Worcester city centre. A number of sites have already been suggested for the hotel however attracting inward investment from a top end hotel brand is difficult without evidence from the visitor and business markets. Please complete a short survey to help us and be in with the chance to win dinner for two & a bottle of wine at Brockencote Hall Hotel www.visitworcestershire.org/hotelresearch Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Biginterview

Enterprise Zone heralds exciting future Jackson Equestrian in Chester. Bill has been a director for 17 years.

For the past four years, he has been Chairman of the Leominster Area Regeneration Company (LARC), which has been responsible for the regeneration of Leominster, including the new bridge and industrial estate together with transforming the town centre with a 94% shop occupancy.

Of his job as Chair of the Hereford Enterprise Zone, he said: “It is an exciting challenge and its success is key to the prosperity of the city and county, creating jobs and apprenticeships not only in the Hereford Enterprise Zone, but in all the towns throughout Herefordshire.

We were selected by the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership as the Enterprise Zone, so the links to businesses in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin are also important for us.”

Hereford Enterprise Zone, whose partners include Herefordshire Council and the Goodwin Trust, offers ‘a high-quality business space and vibrant dynamic business community in an attractive parkland setting‘.

For entrepreneur Bill Jackson, these are exciting times in Herefordshire. As Non-Executive Chair of the Hereford Enterprise Zone, he is helping to create a new era in the county‘s economic history.

The intention is to develop the South Magazine area as a centre for excellence for the Defence and Security sector (including cyber security), based on the talent and expertise available locally through the MOD and Special Forces presence, and nearby Qinetiq and GCHQ. The North Magazine is aimed at advanced engineering business, reflecting again on local business strengths, particularly environmental technologies, food technology and processing.

Companies in the Enterprise Zone benefit from: n Business Rates relief n simplified planning process n superfast broadband n local business sponsorship

As Chair, Bill is responsible for leading the Zone‘s board, ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities, and also fostering relationships with the business community and all key stakeholders in both the private and public sector.

n help with skills and recruitment Bill said: “We hope to create 1,000 jobs by the end of the year, focusing on the sectors in which we are already strong.

It’s the latest challenge for Bill, who was born in Hereford and attended the Cathedral Prep and Lucton School, going onto found Jackson’s Estate Agency in 1982.

“Working with our partners, we are seeking to take advantage of the area’s qualities. We have a good quality of life, a good business environment, a good education system, high-speed broadband and good tourist attractions.

The current company, Jackson International, operates estate agents offices in Hereford and Leominster and

“We want to persuade hi-tech companies to come here. We are already negotiating with some major

international companies from the United States, Canada and Europe and the idea is to bring in hi-tech businesses and we are also talking to local companies in the hope that they will expand.

“We have an excellent educational system and it is important that we keep those talented young people in the area.”

A big part of the offer is Skylon Park, a new business park at the heart of the zone and one which is attracting interest from some major businesses.

The brand for Skylon, which is in Rotherwas, is inspired by the Skylon of 1951, the centrepiece of the Festival of Britain, which was designed and manufactured in Herefordshire.

The name is designed to emphasise innovation, ambition, courage and drive on the 72-hectare site, which will concentrate on defence and security, traditionally strong sectors given the area’s links with the Special Forces.

Herefordshire has more than 85 businesses in the sector and Skylon has set out to create high quality business spaces and a vibrant, dynamic business community in an attractive setting.

The idea is to create a cluster of similar companies, with businesses from the same sector encouraged to work together for mutual benefit Skylon Park itself has wartime links, the site having been acquired by the Ministry of Munitions in 1916 and developed into a National Filling Factory for filling a variety of munitions with explosives in both world wars.

At its height in World War Two, 5,000 women worked at the site. Following the war, the local authority lobbied for the area to be used by local industries and the Rotherwas Industrial Estate came to support many of the county’s leading businesses. Some of the buildings left over from the Munitions Factory have been retained at the site as a heritage asset.

Bill said: “We are looking to the future of the site but are also keen to respect the heritage of the area.

“This was an important site in the history of the employment of women and we want to celebrate that and plan to open a new heritage centre.”

We hope to create 1,000 jobs by the end of the year, focusing on the sectors in which we are already strong.

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Biginterview

We want to persuade hi-tech companies to come here. We are already negotiating with some major international companies from the United States, Canada and Europe and the idea is to bring in hi-tech businesses and we are also talking to local companies in the hope that they will expand

Bill Jackson Non-Executive Chair of the Hereford Enterprise Zone

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coverfeature

Major projects that boost the economy They are the game-changers, the major projects that dictate the economic future of Hereford and Worcestershire. At their heart are dedicated teams of planning officers working to bring together numerous disciplines to create vibrant schemes which support innovation and create jobs.

In this edition of BD, we look at some of the most exciting projects

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Signs are good for Worcestershire A lot of work is being done to support the Worcestershire economy and one of the most exciting projects is the Worcester Technology Park, to be developed on a greenfield site of 72 hectares (178 acres) immediately to the east of the M5 motorway, next to Junction 6.

The northern part of the site has outline planning consent for 140,000 m² (1,500,000 sq ft) gross of manufacturing, offices, research and development and logistics and is available for multiple occupation.

The southern part of the site is being brought through

the planning process and should provide a further 78,000 m² (840,000 sq ft) of space for research & development and B1c light industrial use.

Worcestershire County Council is working in partnership to deliver the early phase construction of the Technology Park in collaboration with the landowner.

It is anticipated that buildings on the site will be ready for first occupation in mid-2015, with the early stage of development comprising a mix of large and small occupiers and an Enterprise Centre for smaller occupiers.

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coverfeature The council is also involved in a range of major transport projects designed to improve even further communications in the area.

Hoobrook Link Road Phase 2 is an example, going ahead after Worcestershire County Council received news that its £4.9million bid to Central Government had been successful.

The Department for Transport confirmed that cash from its Local Pinch Point funding pot would be given to the project, which plans to connect the A442 Worcester Road to the A451 Stourport Road via the old British Sugar site (situated to the south of Kidderminster Town centre). At the point where the route crosses the River Stour and Staffordshire/ Worcestershire Canal, a bridge is proposed.

News of the bid’s success has been welcomed as a key priority to alleviate traffic congestion, a barrier to

economic growth, by Worcestershire County Council, the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, local Members of Parliament and Wyre Forest District Council.

The remainder of the funding for the scheme, estimated to be around £11million, is being sought from local sources and third-party bodies. A planning application should be submitted in August and if the remaining funds are found it is hoped that construction could commence in December 2014.

Cllr Simon Geraghty, Worcestershire County Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy, Skills and Infrastructure, said: “Ensuring the area is ‘Open for Business’ is a key priority for the County Council.

The proposed Hoobrook Link Road will cut congestion, improve access, connect two employment corridors and promote economic growth.”

Artists illustration of the possible Worcester Technology Park

Plan that maps out an exciting future for Herefordshire It may sound dry but the Local Development Framework is a vibrant document that points the way forward for business in Herefordshire.

Currently being completed, the Plan sets out the conditions in which business can thrive between now and 2031 and has placed the economy at its heart.

Andrew Ashcroft, Assistant Director Environment, Economy and Culture at Herefordshire council, said: “Previously, we have hinted at supporting opportunities for business in the Plan but this document puts them at the forefront.

“It’s not the traditional land use type of plan but one which takes a wider approach in order to attract hi-tech businesses.

“The Plan sets out ways in which we can make the area more attractive to businesses.

“It’s important that we do that because, at the moment, the area’s demographic is skewed towards the older person and we have a fine education system but we are losing a lot of those young people aged between 18-30.

“Creating the conditions for the kind of jobs they want is a way of making sure that we do not lose them.”

One of the ways that is being done is the Hereford Enterprise Zone, whose partners include Herefordshire Council and the Goodwin Trust, and which sets out plans for a high-quality business community.

Companies in the Enterprise Zone benefit from: n Business Rates relief n Simplified planning process n Superfast broadband n Local business sponsorship n Help with skills and recruitment Andrew said: “We are thrilled to be part of the

Enterprise Zone, which will focus in part on defence and security companies, building on Hereford’s links with the SAS. “It is an exciting time for the area. Existing companies already see the benefits of doing business in the County and we are working hard to promote its image to others at both a national and international level.

“We work closely with the Chamber of Commerce and other organisations to ensure that we support our businesses.

“One of our big advantages is that we are large enough to attract companies but small enough to fix things when they need fixing.

“Take the need for a Hereford Relief Road. We are talking to the Highways Agency about it and negotiations are at an advanced stage and are set within the evolving Local Development Framework.”

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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It’s not the traditional land use type of plan but one which takes a wider approach in order to attract hi-tech businesses. The Plan sets out ways in which we can make the area more attractive to businesses. andrew ashcroft Assistant Director Environment, Economy and Culture

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clarenco.com

www.

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CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION FEATURE

CORPORATE

Meetings & Events Situated on the edge of the historic riverside town of Bewdley this popular venue for meetings and events is well situated in a convenient location, with an attractive rural setting offering free parking and free WIFI. This recently refurbished and modernised venue really is a must see....

The latest phase of our refurbishments saw 7 spacious boutique bedrooms equipped with superking beds, 40” HD TV’s, wet rooms, free wifi, work stations, air conditioning and some have balconies with fabulous views.

Whatever your requirement you can be assured of a warm welcome, attentive service and unbeatable value in a spectacular setting. Meeting rooms available to cater for 2-200 delegates.

Day Delegate rates from £20.00+VAT per person* 24 Hour Residential rates from £100.00+VAT per person* Corporate Dinners from £20.00 + VAT per person.

At the end of a hard days meeting continue networking with clients in our contemporary lounge bar or in Greens Restaurant, alternatively why not de-stress with a game of golf on our Championship Golf Course? *T*&C’s apply

CONFERENCE  MEETING  TRAINING VENUE

CALL US NOW 01989 760716 Weston-under-Penyard Herefordshire HR9 7YH Email corporate@penyardhouse.co.uk Web www.penyardhouse.co.uk

Longbank, Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 2QW 01299 405222 • enquiries@whartonpark.co.uk • www.whartonpark.co.uk

Farncombe: a new name for an award-winning conference centre Farncombe Estate, 400 acres of Cotswold parkland overlooking Broadway, is a bit of a mystery to its neighbours. They sometimes refer to it as “Group 4” although it’s many years since this was the training hub for the global security company. In fact, Farncombe is home to Cotswold Conference Centre, a multi-award winning and multi-faceted venue specialising in business meetings, training and teambuilding.

Its 11 meeting rooms and 89 bedrooms also play host to Farncombe Courses, where thousands of students have enriched their

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lives on leisure weekends for the past 10 years. And it’s one of the main employers in this rural location.

Now the family that owns the estate is creating a single Farncombe brand. From the end of June, “Farncombe Conference Centre” is born.

customer service and sustainability apply just as much to the new name as to the old.”

To read more about Farncombe Conference Centre and the other Farncombe businesses, visit www.farncombeestate.co.uk

“We pride ourselves on a professional service and a personal approach” says Operations Manager Richard Howdle.

“We want everyone to know that the Gold standards we win for Business Tourism,

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CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION FEATURE

Stockton Road, Abberley,Worcester,WR6 6AT Tel: 01299 896666 | Email: info@theelmshotel.co.uk

Make our luxury country hotel your home and enjoy everything The Elms has to offer and we’ll ensure your stay is as special as it can be……

We offer guests stylish and desirable family breaks through a unique combination of Ofsted registered childcare, great family facilities, delicious food and wine, a beautiful spa, understated yet attentive service in a luxurious setting and makes the perfect location for exploring the Midlands.

Together with a unique family friendly atmosphere, The Elms also provides the perfect setting for conferences, private dining parties and weddings. Our event rooms are beautifully appointed, creating a welcoming ambience which is the perfect environment to do business.

23 Beautiful rooms | Free Wi-Fi throughout | Free car park for up to 120 cars | All day dining areas | Bar open all day | All bedrooms have digital TV/DVD | The Spa | Well equipped gym | Bear’s Den crèche | Tennis court | Functional meeting rooms with character and natural daylight

15% off DDR (£55) with FREE Bacon Rolls 15% off 24 hour rate (£185) with FREE Pre Dinner Drinks

PLUS EVERY BOOKING GETS A FREE SPA VOUCHER FOR THE BOOKER AND A FRIEND!

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIAl

JESSICA BEDDING JOINS WESTLANDS MOTOR GROUP Westlands Motor Group are thrilled to announce Jessica Bedding as their New Group Fleet Manager. Jess has nearly 10 years experience in Business and Fleet Sales and has worked in and around the West Midlands with BMW, Toyota and Lexus franchises.

Jess has joined Westlands Motor Group in June this year and has one aim – to make sure Westlands is your first port of call when considering or renewing company vehicles. Whether you’re a local business with 3 vehicles or a fleet operation with 3,000 vehicles – Jess has the knowledge and experience to advise you of the best and most cost efficient methods.

“I am an advisor first and foremost with a creative approach to finding funding solutions when it comes to company vehicles. I can help improve cashflow, show you ways to lower your corporation tax and boost

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your company image. My aim is to work in harmony alongside your company and be a member of your team through the lifecycle of your vehicle ownership. Toyota provide some winning products and I can show you how to get them working for your company.

I can offer a no obligation consultation at your convenience and from that, look at your current fleet compared with like for like vehicles to show areas of high expenditure and cost saving. With the current Toyota range, you can ensure that you do not have to compromise on style, comfort or equipment to keep your costs to a minimum. Our class leading emissions also ensure your staff BIK Tax and National Insurance contributions are kept low.

For example, the stunning New Toyota Auris is built in Britain and made for business. An Auris Active Hybrid is available from just £214 + VAT per month. It comes with zero road fund license, is London congestion charge exempt and will return 74 mpg. The BIK is just 10% meaning drivers will pay only £33.23 per month (£66.47 for higher rate tax payers) On top of that,

businesses can benefit from 100% capital write down in year 1 due to CO2 emissions of just 87g/km.

Summer 2013 will see the launch of the All New Auris Touring Sports. The New Auris Touring Sports is the first model in its class to offer a full-hybrid petrol electric powertrain delivering class leading CO2 emissions of 85g/km. It will also be available with a choice of diesel or petrol engines.”

In her spare time, Jess swaps horsepower for horses.

She has an ex-racehorse whom she has retrained to be a wonderful riding horse. She also has a young mare from excellent showjumping stock whom Jess is hoping to compete in the Dressage World. On top of all that she also has a young daughter to keep her occupied!

For more information on the any of the Toyota range, or to arrange an appointment to discuss your business needs call Jess directly on 07581 125853.

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RCAREGENERATION

Jessica Bedding Business Centre Manager Westlands Motor Group Tel : 07581 125853 email : jessica.bedding@westlands.toyota.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Specialising in Commercial Agency matters, in and around Hereford and the county.

Turner & Company is the largest firm of Commercial Chartered Surveyors based in Hereford and we provide a wide range of services throughout the City, Herefordshire and beyond. Please contact us for assistance with ●

Sales & Lettings ● Valuations ● Development Advice

● Sales

● Rating

● Lettings

● Development advice

● Acquisitions

● Shops

● Rent Reviews

● Offices

● Lease Renewals

● Industrial/Warehousing

● Valuations

Turner and Company Thorpe House, Broad Street Hereford HR4 9AS

Tel: 01432 276202 www.turnerandco.co.uk

paulhodgson@crossandjames.co.uk www.crossandjames.co.uk 01432 343777

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s .EW 2EFURBISHED )NDUSTRIAL 5NITS New & Refurbished Industrial Units s 0LEASANT AND #ONVENIENT ,OCATION ● Pleasant and Convenient Location ●

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&OR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CALL THE %STATE /Fl CE

01299 822731 01299 822731

For enquiries please call the Estate Office:

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ADVERTORIAl

CREATIVITY IS THE LIFEBLOOD OF MANY SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES Applying some creativity can help a company to stand out in the marketplace. But It doesn’t have to be an expensive exercise that soaks up your entire marketing budget.

Worcester based marketing agency NinetyFive Creative is helping local companies to achieve just this, as Managing Director Matt Lloyd explains: ”We’ve produced some fantastic examples for local companies that have been very cost effective. We encourage clients to think about what they could do if there were no financial limitations, and then see how we can apply these principles within their budget.”

AN OUTSIDER LOOKING IN When you’re too close to your business you’ll benefit from some creative support. Matt says: “Clients ask us for a leaflet because that’s what they’ve always done. We’ll suggest alternative routes such as an email campaign or even an app. Clients love it because it sparks their creativity too.”

OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW Creativity can also stretch to a groundbreaking proposition. Remember the Domino’s Pizza ‘30 minutes or less delivery guarantee’ which helped the company to gain fans and build market share?

ONE STEP AT A TIME Creativity plays a part at every level from the design of your logo, brand and marketing collateral, to your advertising placements and the messages that you use. Focus on one area at a time if it feels daunting.

SET TIME ASIDE When you’re fighting deadlines, creativity is probably the last thing on your agenda. To maintain momentum try building time into your calendar to facilitate ‘Creative Sessions’ with your team. You’ll be amazed by what can be achieved in just one hour!

Find out more about NinetyFive Creative at www.ninetyfivecreative.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIAl

ST MICHAEL’S HOSPICE INVESTING IN THE FUTURE St Michael’s Hospice has recently started work on a multi-million pound investment in its future in Herefordshire, with commencement of building a brand new 20 bed In-Patient unit and Integrated Services block.

The original buildings are nearly 30 years old and can no longer accommodate the number of people who use their facilities whether as patients, carers, family or individuals, learning new skills through one of the many education courses run by St Michael’s Hospice.

The total project, costing £11million, has been designed by the Herefordshire based, award winning architects, Architype and is being constructed by the local West Midlands construction firm Speller Metcalfe. Jonathan Hines, director at Architype said “We have been inspired by the Hospice’s dedication and unrivalled enthusiasm and to this we have developed an exemplary design, which brings an entirely new and fresh approach to hospice buildings”.

The first phase of the new development, costing £8million, will provide 20 single bedrooms with en-suite shower facilities; individual external patio areas and intimate internal sitting space for socialisation; new therapy suites; bereavement suite; accommodation for relatives; catering and a new reception area. The new accommodation will enable the Hospice to double the number of people that they can currently care for, whilst being more energy efficient and improving the environment available to both staff and clients. Nicky West, St Michael’s Hospice Chief Executive, said “The new development will transform the care and services we can provide to

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those diagnosed with a life limiting illness and those supporting and caring for them. The facilities will be much more appropriate to what people expect and deserve in the 21st century.”

Steve Speller, Managing Director of Speller Metcalfe said “We are honoured to be managing such a worthwhile project. St Michael’s Hospice is a project particularly close to the company’s heart, having had two colleagues who sadly passed away and were cared for by the hospice. Contributing to improving the hospice environment and enabling improved access to its services is something we are looking forward to make happen”.

Once the new In-Patient unit and Integrated Services block is complete, it is hoped work will then commence on the second phase, redeveloping the original Hospice buildings to expand the education

and out-patient facilities. This is an important part of the whole redevelopment as St Michael’s Hospice is one of the West Midlands lead educators in Palliative and End- of- Life care, as well as providing a wide range of support and therapies for people who choose to continue to be cared for at home.

The whole project is the biggest community development to be happening in Herefordshire at the moment, and will have a lasting impact on the County and its residents, of all ages and for years to come.

St Michael’s Hospice is a local charity and relies on the support of the local community, businesses and individuals, to fund its facilities and services.

Tel: 01432 851000 www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk Registered Charity Number 511179

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ST MICHAEL’S HOSPICE SUPPORTS LOCAL BUSINESSES St Michael’s Hospice supports local businesses in ways many business leaders do not realise.

St Michael’s Hospice provides care for all impacted by the diagnosis of a life-limiting illness, even those in full time employment, with support courses such as Adult Carers of Working Age ; Saturday Club and FRESH for children and young people living with someone with a terminal diagnosis. The support and advice helps minimise as much as possible, the stress on those who continue working. It also helps employers, as workers who feel their family are well supported, have fewer days off work and better physical and mental health in the longer term. All of this care and support is provided free of

charge at the point of service and is so much more than any private health insurance package can provide. However, to deliver these services St Michael’s Hospice needs to raise over £4million p.a. and this year, a further £3million,to fund its redevelopment.

HOW BUSINESSES CAN SUPPORT ST MICHAEL’S HOSPICE There are many ways for your business to support St Michael’s Hospice, such as choosing us to be your Charity of the Year, staff fundraising, sponsorship, corporate donations, Hospice events and challenges. All of these, as well as benefitting St Michael’s, can help promote your business, show your commitment to the community and keep your funds local, to support your families, friends and neighbours.

CORPORATE EVENTS IN 2013

WHEELIE BIG CYCLE SUNDAY 21ST JULY 2013 SPONSORED BY HEINEKEN AND BULMERS

Join us with your family, friends or colleagues for a great day of cycling on our first Wheelie Big Cycle. The Wheelie Big Cycle has a choice of three routes, all taking in different aspects of the beautiful Herefordshire countryside. With water/snack stations, on all routes there are plenty of places to stop, plus the opportunity to have your picnic in the grounds of Garnons Estate.

JULY IS ST MICHAEL’S HOSPICE BIG TEA MONTH Holding a Big Tea party is as easy as one, two tea!

Pick a day this July, buy or bake some cakes and pop the kettle on!Then ask colleagues or customers to join you and ask for a donation to St Michael’s Hospice. If you prefer have a G&T party and invite clients to meet your staff or visit your offices and use the event to make people aware of your business.

CORPORATE GOLF DAY FRIDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER 2013 SPONSORED BY HEINEKEN AND BULMERS.

The Hereford & Worcester Chamber of Commerce new Golf Society’s only golf event in Herefordshire. Held at Burghill Valley Golf Club, the day begins with a shot gun start with lots of competitions on the course, followed by a three course dinner and prize presentation.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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VENUS MIDNIGHT WALK

MICHAELMAS FEAST & AUCTION

FRIDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER 2013

FRIDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2013

SPONSORED BY HOOPLE LTD

Join us for a Michaelmas Banquet and auction, to celebrate the St Michael’s Hospice feast day and also raise much needed funds for this important local charity.

Join us for the 2013 Venus Midnight Walk. Beginning and ending at the Point4 the 10k walk will take you on a loop through the city of Hereford.

It’s night so be bright and raid the fancy dress box to make sure you’re seen.

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chamberTRAINING The PR and Marketing Series Special offer Book all 6 courses from £400 +VAT Individual workshops cost £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members Designed as a series of half day monthly workshops taking your business on a marketing journey, starting with raising your profile and working through to developing your social media strategy.

All courses run from 9.30am until 1pm and include course notes, refreshments and lunch.

Workshop 1 - Raising Your Profile Wednesday 25 September 2013 - 9.30am -1pm Your brand is your business identity. It’s defined by how you portray your business, and how your market then interprets this.

As your business and market grow and develop, so too must your brand. Everyone is looking for ways to stand out from the crowd. A clear brand focus that links your know-how with your message and creates a strong point of difference from your competitors will help you get noticed. You don’t have to have a big budget to boost the awareness of your brand and build stronger loyalty amongst your customers and staff. Hard working and cost effective PR tactics will grab the attention of your target audiences and make an even greater impact in your market. Make the most of what you’ve got and allow your business to really stand out from the crowd.

Workshop 2 - Getting to Grips with Social Media Wednesday 9 October 2013 - 9.30am -1pm We're all familiar with social media tools, like blogs, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube and these are a great way to give staff the freedom to become 'brand advocates'. If a business takes the time to think about its personality, and how this is reflected in its staff and everything it does, it will stand a much better chance of differentiating itself from its competitors and attracting new customers. This 1/2 day workshop is designed to develop practical use of social media, to help attendees incorporate social media into their marketing mix and to learn from case studies of successful marketing campaigns. Plenty of practical exercises and participation in a friendly environment.

Workshop 3 - Writing Effective Press Release Friday 8 November 2013 - 9.30am -1pm Getting your story out there is harder than it’s ever been and sometimes your messages about your company’s goods and services can get lost. The need to write concise, compelling and, above all, newsworthy press materials is greater than ever before. Journalists and broadcasters are under pressure and only the most newsworthy and well-written stories make it through. This course is designed to give delegates from the private, voluntary or public sectors, the tools to get coverage of their goods and services in print and broadcast media.

The course is designed to be hands-on. Participants will leave with an understanding of when, and why, press releases should be used; how to write and distribute an effective press release; how to integrate press releases into their overall marketing and social media strategy; how to maximise newsworthy events.

Would you like to win more new business?

In today’s challenging market, companies who are serious about growing need to do everything they can to maintain their competitive edge. Favourable media coverage is worth its weight in gold when it comes to creating brand loyalty and recognition. To the public, a positive mention in an article is far more powerful than an advertisement because editorial - reviews, articles and so on - is seen as more trustworthy. Getting the media to say good things about your products or services is smart marketing.

Whilst many small to medium sized businesses recognise the need to engage in some form of marketing, often the variety of courses can appear daunting. There are many qualifications available for professional marketers but often individuals just need to know the basics in some of the key disciplines. In September, the Chamber will launch the next PR and Marketing Series to help your business build its brand using a variety of cost effective tools.

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Workshop 4 - Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) Wednesday 11 December - 9.30am -1pm Learn how to easily increase traffic with Search Engine Optimisation in just 1/2 a day. Our SEO introduction workshop identifies the simple steps you can take to rank highly in search engines and build online business success. Optimising your organisation's website for search engines can be a powerful way of increasing traffic and getting more from your website.

This workshop will show you how search engines work, what influences them, how to get your website performing better and optimised well in Google. This is a practical approach to how SEO works and will help to demystify SEO and what you're paying for. It will teach you how to get the maximum return from your online marketing spend using Google Analytics and SEO. Attendees will leave with a list of action steps to help you grow your web presence.

Workshop 5 - Writing Effective Marketing Copy Wednesday 15 January 2014 - 9.30am -1pm Clear, concise and credible copywriting is an essential part of all successful business communications. From business letters to e-mails, from newsletters to e-shots, from brochures to websites, from ‘phone texts to twitter feeds, now more than ever before, we are bombarded with marketing materials demanding our attention. Your words, therefore, must stand out from the crowd, communicate key messages and make the reader act. This workshop will show you how to easily and quickly write effective marketing copy that connects your business to both your customers and your potential customers.

Workshop 6 - Social Media Strategy Friday 7 February 2014 - 9.30am -1pm We’ll show you how easy it is to start using social media effectively. Our approach is straight forward and practical, with all the learning relevant to your business. As part of the workshop you’ll have your own social media workbook that makes developing your own social media strategy a breeze. This will give you a clear plan that can be put into practice as soon as you’re back in your workplace. We’ll be looking at Social Media Tactics using real local, business examples and how you can apply these to your industry. We’ll also get you started with the right tools to help you manage your updates and start measuring the success of your social media campaigns. If you have a particular project in mind, whether it’s a product launch or running an event – we can take you through from start to finish to ensure you’re getting maximum exposure for your business.

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White

CHAMBERBUSINESStraining Colour & Grey

If your business requires any type of training, coaching or consultancy then the Chamber Training Centre can help you. Please find below a list of courses for July, September and October JULY Courses

Colour & White

September Courses

Managing People in the Team Tuesday 2 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Basics of Export Documentation Thursday 19 September £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member

Microsoft Word - Essential Skills for Office Staff (2007) Friday 5 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Role of the Team Leader Tuesday 24 September £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Assertiveness and Confidence at Work Monday 8 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

VAT on Exports Tuesday 24 September £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member

Selecting and Managing Agents & Distributors Tuesday 9 July £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members

PR and Marketing Series - Raising Your Profile Wednesday 25 September £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members

Advanced Import Procedures Wednesday 10 July £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non MemberCustoms Compliance Managing Absence Wednesday 10 July £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non Members Customs Compliance Thursday 11 July £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member Fire Marshal Training Monday 15 July £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members

September Courses

October Courses PowerPoint for Presentations Friday 4 October £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members Tariff Classification Tuesday 8 October £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member PR and Marketing Series - Getting to Grips with Social Media Wednesday 9 October £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members Internal Quality Auditor Training - ISO 9001 Standard Tuesday 15 October £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Advanced Export Documentation Tuesday 3 September £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member

Direct Shipping Tuesday 15 October £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member

Import Procedures (Basics) Wednesday 4 September £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member

International Sales Online Wednesday 16 October £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member

IOSH Managing Safely Tuesday 3- Friday 6 September £495+VAT Members / £595+VAT Non Members

Intermediate Microsoft Excel Friday 18 October £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Introduction to Microsoft Excel (2007) Friday 6 September £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Employment Law Update Tuesday 22 October November Courses £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

The Exporter’s Guide to International Payments Tuesday 10 September £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member

Export Licensing Thursday 24 October £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member

Effective Presentation Skills Tuesday 10 September £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members AEO (Advanced Economic Operator Status) Tuesday 17 September £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Member Communicating for Success Tuesday 17 September £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members Managing Appraisals Thursday 19 September £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Bespoke Training Courses If there is a course that you are interested in that isn’t listed please contact the Training Team on 0845 641 1641 To book for any of these courses visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/ businesstraining or call the Training Team on 0845 641 1641 or email training@hwchamber.co.uk 039 2/7/13 09:45:33

CHAMBEREVENTS

THE BUSINESS CELEBRATION AND NETWORKING EVENT OF THE YEAR! Chamber Business Awards 2013 featuring the Worcestershire Ambassadors CSR Awards Thursday 26 September The Chateau Impney Hotel, Droitwich, Worcestershire WR9 0BN The Chamber Business Awards 2013 featuring the Worcestershire Ambassadors Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Awards offers an excellent opportunity for local companies to showcase their achievements, celebrate their successes, get free publicity and boost staff morale. It is free and easy to enter and open to all businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Taking place this autumn in the beautiful surroundings of the Chateau Impney Hotel, Droitwich, the 2013 ceremony promises to celebrate the best of Herefordshire and Worcestershire businesses in a glittering ceremony!

Finding ways to stand out and win business is always a challenge. It is important to differentiate your business from the competition. Therefore, every business, large and small, based in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, is urged to use the most prestigious business awards in the area to their advantage. Winning a Chamber award will get you talked about and make potential customers take notice.

Tickets to the event are available now priced at £70+VAT for members and £90+VAT for Non-members, tables of 10: £630+VAT for Members and £810+VAT for Non-members For entry forms and to book your place, visit www. hwchamber.co.uk/chamberbusinessawards or contact the Chamber events team on 0845 641 1641.

There are 11 categories this year:

MOST PROMISING NEW BUSINESS (FOR BUSINESSES TRADING UP TO 3 YEARS) This award is aimed at businesses who have started trading within the last three years and who can demonstrate that they have developed and implemented strategies that will support the survival and growth of their business as it develops.

COMMITMENT TO PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT AWARD, HEREFORDSHIRE COMMITMENT TO PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT AWARD, WORCESTERSHIRE – SPONSORED BY SANCTUARY GROUP

EXPORTER OF THE YEAR - SPONSORED BY MALVERN INSTRUMENTS

This award will be given to the business that demonstrates excellence in its approach to workforce development and can show a continued emphasis on supporting employees to achieve their full potential. There will be an award presented for each county of Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

As the global economy becomes increasingly important this is the perfect category to show how you stand out in the International arena.

WORCESTERSHIRE AMBASSADORS OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO CSR BY AN INDIVIDUAL

AWARD FOR SUSTAINABILITY IN BUSINESS, HEREFORDSHIRE AWARD FOR SUSTAINABILITY IN BUSINESS, WORCESTERSHIRE This award is aimed at businesses who can demonstrate that they have implemented sustainable environmental strategies throughout their business.

There will be an award presented for each county of Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

WORCESTERSHIRE AMBASSADORS AWARD FOR CSR IN THE COMMUNITY This award is aimed at businesses who can demonstrate that they have implemented charitable enterprise strategies for the community in which they serve.

EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION - SPONSORED BY CENTRAL TECHNOLOGY BELT

This award is aimed at individuals who can demonstrate that they have performed exceptional personal contributions to charity and/or the community outside of their workplace.

GROWTH BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED

BY GROWTHACCELERATOR This award is for businesses who can show that their organisation has achieved consistent business growth, which has resulted in improved profitability, job creation and development of new or existing markets.

This award is applicable to small, medium or large businesses.

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY NICKLIN LLP This ‘winner of winners’ award will be selected from the winners of each of the award categories and announced at the Chamber Award Ceremony.

This award is aimed at businesses who can demonstrate that their organisation has harnessed innovation by introducing new ideas, processes, technologies or products and services.

SUMMER OF ACTIVITIES IN WORCESTER CITY CENTRE THE WORCESTER FESTIVAL - EVENTS, ACTIVITIES & FUN FOR EVERYONE

WORCESTER MUSIC FESTIVAL AND WORCESTER BID TEAM UP FOR THE BIG BUSK

Worcester Festival is back for 2013 and promises even more exciting events.

There will be dancing in the streets on Saturday 27 July as Worcester Music Festival and Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) host the second Big Busk.

This year’s festival starts on Saturday 10 August, and will run until the August Bank Holiday on Monday 26 August - a total of 17 days of events, activities and fun for everyone across the city and beyond.

The Festival is an opportunity for local people to attend and participate in a wide selection of professional and community events and activities or even stage or host their own event. For more information, visit www.worcesterfestival.co.uk

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From 11am until 4pm, Worcester Music Festival acts will perform in various locations around the city centre to entertain shoppers and promote the festival which takes place from Friday 30 August to Sunday 1 September this year. Supported by Worcester BID, it is hoped that the event will bring more visitors in to the city centre to listen to the music and visit local traders.

Anthony Robbins, Chairman of Worcester Music Festival said: “We all had a wonderful time working with the BID at last year’s Big Busk and there was a great atmosphere throughout the town with live music at every turn. We are really looking forward to showing the people of Worcester some of the great quality local acts we have available.”

For more information about the Big Busk or Worcester Music Festival, visit www. worcestermusicfestival.co.uk/thebigbusk

July/August 2013

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chamberevents

Networking CALENDAR JULY/AUGUST Food and Drinks Producers Group Wednesday 10 July 8.30-11am Hereford Cider Museum, Pomona Place, Hereford HR4 0E We are hosting a Food and Drinks Producers Group at the Heineken Bulmers site in Hereford. Aimed at food and drink primary producers and manufacturers, this will allow attendees to share advice and information, receive updates on key issues and build a strong network with positive business opportunities.

FREE EVENT Please email DeborahS@hwchamber.co.uk

WORCESTER ARTISAN FOOD AND DRINK MARKET A new event is coming to Worcester city centre this summer. On Saturday 17 August, Cathedral Plaza will host the first Worcester Artisan Food and Drink Market. This free to attend event will see Cathedral Plaza packed with local artists and makers displaying their wares and offering excellent quality food and drink to take home.

Run as a partnership between Boffy Arts and Events, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Cathedral Plaza, the market will run throughout the day. All three organisations are keen to support local businesses and are encouraging

shoppers to visit Cathedral Plaza during the event to see what talents the local area has to offer.

The market will give shoppers the opportunity to buy something a little bit different, all the while supporting the local economy. The organisers hope this will be the first of many such events in Worcester city centre.

For more information, please email

events@hwchamber.co.uk

START TO GROW – FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH! Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and strategic members, Hayward Wright are pleased to announce the Start to Grow Forum dates for the remainder of 2013.

Aimed at businesses who are within their first two years of trading, the Start to Grow Forum is informal and provides attendees with practical and relevant information and a range of speakers and business themes. There is also the opportunity for attendees to access one to one informal meetings with key advisers and business contacts at the end of every event.

The Forum events are consistently popular, with attendees feeding back that the format allows for plenty of networking and the opportunity to make useful business contacts.

Alistair Druett, Hayward Wright, commented; “The Start to Grow event allows businesses to share best practice

and learn from others who have been there and done it. Hayward Wright love to support new businesses and help them grow. It is crucial that young business get the advice and support to allow them to flourish.”

It is free for members to attend these events, please email events@ hwchamber.co.uk, call 0845 641 1641 or visit the website to book your place.

Dates for your Diary (all events run from 4-6pm) Wednesday 17 July - Worcestershire County Cricket Club, County Ground, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ Wednesday 25 September - Venue TBC Wednesday 27 November - St Andrews Droitwich, St Andrews Drive, Droitwich WR9 8AL

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Redditch Networking Breakfast in association with Smarter Working West Midlands, a programme part funded by the European Union Wednesday 17 July 7.30-9.30am The Abbey Hotel, Hither Green Lane, Dagnell End Road, Redditch B98 9BE Another in our series of sponsored events, this buffet breakfast is designed to provide an array of networking opportunities as well as the opportunity to hear about a range of support available to businesses.

FREE EVENT Malvern Networking Breakfast Thursday 18 July 7.30-9.30am Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Malvern, WR14 3ET Join your fellow businesses for an excellent networking breakfast. Our speaker at this event will be Simon Williams from Arrivista Business Coaching. £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members HR Forum Hereford Thursday 18 July 11.30am-2.00pm Burghill Valley Golf Club Run in association with Hewett Recruitment, the HR Forum is aimed at HR Representatives from businesses with over 20 employees. A confidential forum designed to allow you to share best practice and seek advice and support from peers in an open and supportive environment. £22.50+VAT Members, £30.00+VAT Non-members Chamber Curry Club in association with Harrisons Business Recovery and Insolvency Ltd Friday 19 July 2013 12.30 - 2.30pm Champagne Signature Bar and Restaurant, Hereford An informal lunch club for local businesses to meet and network over a delicious Indian buffet £17.50+VAT Members, £22.50+VAT Non-members Ross on Wye Networking Breakfast Thursday 25 July 7.30-9.30am Penyard House, Weston under Penyard, Ross on Wye HR9 7YH £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members Droitwich Networking Breakfast Thursday 1 August 7.30-9.30am St Andrews Town Hotel, St Andrews Drive, Droitwich £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 7 August 7.30-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, HR4 7RW £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members Worcester Networking Breakfast Thursday 15 August 7.30-9.30am Bindles Brasserie, 55 Sidbury, Worcester WR1 2HU £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

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newmembersnews

COLOURFUL NEW TECHNOLOGY Investment in digital print technology means that Something Different can now offer a large range of branded promotional items with a full colour print.

More and more companies and organisations have multi-colour logos or product pictures that they would like to feature on pens, bags, clothing and so on. For many years this was either not possible, very expensive, or required very large quantities. Now, low run, low cost and fine print quality is available as never before.

Another Something Different development involves computer-controlled cutting processes that can produce bespoke shapes of certain products in low-run quantities.

Digital printing and laser engraving also allows us to apply individual names and sequential numbers to some products at very little extra cost.

All of these developments mean that the choice and decoration of branded promotional items can be far more ambitious than in previous years without breaking the bank. www.somethingdifferent.co.uk

NEW CONFERENCE FACILITIES AT HAREWOOD PARK, HEREFORDSHIRE

FABULOUS FINN FLIES THE FLAG FOR WORKING SOLUTIONS! Working Solutions have once again hit their target of ‘recruiting high calibre candidates for high calibre clients’ by placing fabulous Finn, Anna Watkins, in a Sales Support Administrator role at Kingspan Insulation in Pembridge! The company received a number of applications for the role but there were several factors relating to Anna’s work experience and personality that caused her to stand out amongst the competition.

Simon Lambourne, Sales Director at Working Solutions, said: “At the registration stage, Anna presented herself really competently and professionally and yet combined that with a fun approach, a zest for life

Anna Watkins and Sue Richards from Kingspan

and a real sense that her approach to work was in a different league to others – we immediately had confidence in her abilities and recognised she was ‘a cut above the rest.’

www.workingsolutions.co.uk

BUSY TIMES AT POLA VAN RENTAL New Chamber members, Pola Van Rental Ltd, who have a fleet of refrigerated rental vehicles for long, medium or short term rental, have had a busy few months.

Due to increased demand for their services they have had to add to their fleet with a number of Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter refrigerated vans to full ATP Class C specification. Further recent improvements have meant the addition of a folding driver’s bunk, with cab night heater on some vehicles. Even with the folding bunk, a loadspace length of 4050mm can be achieved, allowing four standard UK pallets or five Euro

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pallets to be carried on a Mercedes Sprinter 313CDi LWB High Roof. This added advantage for European operation means overall vehicle length is below seven metres; hence reducing ferry charges.

A new conference facility will soon be opening its doors in rural Herefordshire. The Meeting Space in Harewood Park, Herefordshire will provide a unique location for companies to hold important meetings where you want to impress; boost team morale or bring your team together for some creative brainstorming sessions.

Set on a private estate, the Meeting Space benefits from prime location, a dedicated person to deal with your needs throughout the day and a simple menu designed by a former Gordon Ramsey chef.

A stunning mix of traditional and modern, The Meeting Space, naturally lends itself to being a great choice for networking events, to create discussion, promote your business and help you deliver an impressively successful event.

With 12 years of international production experience, their goal is to assist your team through areas of support, so you can move quickly through any issues, and feel good about your choices. www.themeetingspace.co.uk

Pola Van Rental also have long term rental contracts with three UK Water utility companies, providing smaller specially designed 2.8t refrigerated Ford Transits with split compartments for water sample collection all over the England and Wales, and recently achieved full accreditation for ISO 9001:2008. www.vondridge.co.uk

July/August 2013

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newmembers BROADWAY

LUDLOW

UPTON-UPON-SEVERN

The Lygon Arms 01386 852255

Working Solutions (Mercia) Ltd 01584 877677

SBP Limited T/A Permadoor 01684 595200

BROMSGROVE

MALVERN

WORCESTER

CA Fabrications Ltd 07900 800421

All About Magazines 07952 591031

AS & EEF Giles Ltd 01905 22861

www.allabout-local.com

WORCESTER

Threshold Consulting Ltd 01298 872628

City Signs 01905 640007

www.threshold.uk.com

www.citysigns.co.uk

CAP Furnace Spares Ltd 01886 833663

Julian Slaughter Ltd 01905 457822

www.capfurnacespares.co.uk

www.julianslaughterimagery.co.uk

PERSHORE

Box it 01684 592915

www.pumahotels.co.uk/hotels/the-lygon-arms

www.cafabrications.co.uk

DROITWICH Pola Van Rental Ltd 01299 253478

www.vanfridge.co.uk

Train2 Succeed 01905 777910

www.train2succeed.co.uk

EVESHAM Kanes Foods Ltd 01386 830471

www.kanesfoods.co.uk

HAREWOOD END The Meeting Space 01989 730993

www.themeetingspace.co.uk

HEREFORD Signs & Labels Hereford Ltd 01432 340296

www.signslabelshereford.co.uk

Corporate Services (Hereford) Limited 01432 371027

www.workingsolutions.co.uk

www.permadoor.co.uk

Wychavon District Council 01386 565000

www.boxit.co.uk

PWSAS LTD / Pressure Washer Sales & Service 01386 860032

www.eventexcellence.co.uk

www.wychavon.gov.uk

www.pressurewashersalesandservice.co.uk

REDDITCH Brunel Logistics (UK) Ltd 01527 404900

www.brunellogisticsuk.com/

ROSS-ON-WYE Monow Ltd 01989 768179 Ross-on-Wye

www.corporate-group.co.uk

Event Excellence Ltd 07720 681741

Maple Worcester Ltd 01905 754567

www.mapleworcester.com

Grow-And-Progress 01905 753480

www.grow-and-progress.com

M A Bakers 01905 451117

www.mabaker.net

Something Different Ltd 01905 381162

www.somethingdifferent.co.uk/

Did you know Chamber Members.... n Are entitled to free Legal Expenses Insurance n Get free editorial in Business Direction and online n Have access to a 24/7 HR and legal advice line n Get unlimited free of charge export advice and 50% discount on documentation n Receive discounts on business training n Are entitled to a free credit/debit card processing audit n Receive 61% off AA Roadside Assistance There are over 1,400 Chamber members who could be doing business with you!

JOIN NOW! Call 0845 641 1641, email goodbusiness@hwchamber.co.uk or visit www.hwchamber.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

LAW FIRM STEPS UP TO SUPPORT CHARITY KIDS WALK A Worcestershire law firm has partnered with county radio station Free Radio to lend their support to one of the area’s most popular annual charity events. mfg Solicitors has announced the sponsorship deal with Free Radio to back the station’s second Walk for Kids event, which takes place on Sunday 7 July.

The 10.5-mile walk, which is free to enter, is helping to raise funds for local charities Acorns Children’s Hospice, Megan Baker House and New Hope. The route starts at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern, with the finish line at Worcester Racecourse.

Free Radio has confirmed that thousands of people have already signed up for the event, with the station hoping to top last year’s fundraising total of £108,000.

The Walk for Kids event has two starting times on 7 July – 10 and 10.30am. Organisers are asking people to arrive at the starting line at least 30 minutes before for the walk, which is expected to take between two to four hours.

To enter readers can sign up at

www.walk.freeradio.co.uk Free Radio Walk For Kids (front) Kirsten Bridgewater, partner at mfg Solicitors, with presenters Lizzie Crow and Rich Hurst

MATT SADDLES UP FOR 150 MILE CHARITY CYCLE RIDE Local business man Matt Lloyd, Managing Director of NinetyFive Creative, is recovering from his latest cycle challenge, which helped to raise in excess of £2000 for the Child Brain Injury Trust.

Thirteen Wragge & Co cyclists have completed a 450-mile bike ride over five days, raising more than £15,000 for the firm’s charity of the year, Make-A-Wish Foundation® UK.

Along with 11 other cyclists, Matt completed the ‘Follow the Thames, a 150 mile cycle challenge’, in just two days. The route started at the source of the River Thames in Cirencester and crossed the river at various points throughout the trip before finishing at the London Eye on the second day.

The challenge started in Paris, with the ‘Tour de Wragge’ team travelling through Compiegne, Arras, Calais, crossing the channel and then on to London and finally Birmingham.

The Child Brain Injury Trust is a nationwide charity that provides non-medical services to families affected by childhood acquired brain injuries across the UK.

BIS operations and Program Manager Andy Rudall, one of the riders, said, “The challenge we set ourselves this year has been a tough one. However, the support we’ve received has been fantastic and our aim is to raise as much money as possible for this worthy cause.”

After completing the challenge, Matt said: “I’d like to say a huge thank to you everyone who supported me, including the fantastic team at The Green Bike Company in Worcester for supplying a bike for me to use!”

So far, the challenge has raised more than £15,000 for Make-A-Wish and donations are still coming through via the team’s virginmoneygiving page: virginmoneygiving.com/TourdeWragge2013.

If you’d still like to make a donation, you can do so on the team’s Just Giving page - www.justgiving.com/

prospect-accounting/

Matt Lloyd at the London Eye - the finishing point of the challenge

HAINES WATTS CHARITY BALL IN AID OF HELP FOR HEROES Haines Watts in Hereford are delighted to announce their charity ball in aid of Help for Heroes. The event will be held at Lyde Arundel on Saturday 21 September. The dress code for the evening is lounge suits/smart wear.

A lively evening is planned with entertainment from

WRAGGE & CO’S INTREPID CYCLISTS COMPLETE CHARITY BIKE RIDE

Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes to children and young people fighting life-threatening conditions. It is Wragge & Co’s nominated UK charity of the year for 2013. www.wragge.com

The Spitfires and a delicious three course meal with a drink.

Tickets cost £40 plus VAT per person email hereford@hwca.com for a booking form.

www.hwca.com Wragge & Co staff involved in the cycling challenge

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businessNEWS

ASK THE COACH We asked the West Midlands’ most successful business coach, Simon Williams from Arrivista Business Coaching, what questions he’s been asked the most this month.

Q. Why do I often get a negative response when I telemarket / cold call?

A. People are more interested in themselves than others. So when you call make it about them, not you. Focus on the benefits to them from working with you.

Q. What is the most important skill for a sales person to have?

A. Here’s a clue: 77% of US Corporate buyers surveyed said that sales people COULD NOT listen.

LETTING AGENCY COVERING THE ISSUES THAT MATTER Worcester-based letting agency Premier Places has been hitting the headlines throughout the first six months of 2013.

As part of the firm’s overhauled media relations strategy, Director Julia Williams has been discussing and giving expert commentaries on a variety of major

PRESTIGE CHAUFFEUR SERVICES WILL BE SUPPORTING MACMILLAN CANCER Prestige Chauffeur Services is a local, rapidly expanding company, that provides a high end, luxury chauffeur service for corporate and media clients that are looking for more than a simple journey from A to B, which is currently offered by many other companies.

Prestige Chauffeur Services are pleased to announce that they will be supporting Macmillan Cancer as their charity of choice. Over the coming months they intend to hold a car wash, cake stands, raffles, dinner auction nights and, the biggest of all, a Celebrity Charity Golf day followed by a dinner auction. www.prestige-chauffeurs.com

issues affecting the rental market – including landlord safety certificates, taxation, tenancy rights and how George Osborne’s 2013 Budget affected the sector.

Julia has become a regular spokesperson on several industry-related websites and within specialist supplements of regional newspapers, including the Birmingham Post. www.premierplaces.co.uk

Return on Investment. E.g. if profits from new sales is greater than the marketing spend to generate such, this is a positive ROI. Marketing should always be viewed as an investment and every initiative you undertake must be measured as to how many leads it has generated or helped convert.

Q. What is ‘cash gap’?

The difference between when you pay for goods and when your clients pay you. The more successful you become the bigger the gap may be. This needs to be pro-actively managed / financed or the business can end up in trouble.

Q. What is the secret of success?

Helping others achieve their goals. www.arrivista.co.uk

DEVELOPING A LEARNING ORGANISATION Your people drive your business, your people grow your business, your people are your business.

In the long run, the only sustainable source of productivity and performance is your organisation’s ability to learn at individual, team and organisational levels. So, are you developing your people and does your organisation know how to learn?

its competitors through engaged employees and stakeholders.

So, what are the key elements involved in developing a sustainable organisation that is willing to learn?

Investors in Learning has developed a four step quality mark to support in the development of a ‘Learning Organisation’. The process incorporates a needs analysis, looking at nine areas which are foundational to the development of sustainable solutions, and can achieve return on investment and measure impact. www.investorsinlearning.com

Organisations focused on learning will benefit from competitive edge, and ability to learn faster than

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Q. What is ROI in relation to marketing?

045 2/7/13 09:46:06

FEATURE

THE SCIENCE OF A FIRST IMPRESSION First impressions interpret our decisions when choosing friends, partners and business relationships, but it’s not just our social world where first impressions lead us. Whether buying a house, selecting a car, or choosing a kitchen, whatever decisions we make in our day-to-day lives, our first impression of an object or person dominates our decision making and there is science to prove this.

Over the years, numerous neuroscience and psychology studies have established that our brains lead us in all decisions we make. The amygdala area of our brain receives information from all our senses and controls and moderates our motivations, telling us where to go and why. The Posterior Cingular Cortex (PCC) controls our attention and autobiographical emotional influences in our memory. It is also active when we assess the value of objects, possible choices, and make risky decisions or calculate bets. Together, the amygdala and PCC help us to compute first impressions of objects, places and others.

Paul Barton

SECURED PLANNING PERMISSION Malcolm Scott Consultants have been successful on behalf of a number of clients during May and, notably, have secured planning permission on one site outside a settlement boundary in Worcestershire on a site not previously allocated for residential development. Working with DJD Architects and Planning Officers allowed a scheme to be designed which both reflects the existing character of the area and retains those features which were considered significant. This resulted in no objections during the course of the determination, and the approval of Outline Planning Permission.

The National Planning Policy Statement provides that where a Local Planning Authority cannot demonstrate an adequate 5 year housing land supply, relevant Development Plan policies should be considered out of date, and planning permission ought to be allowed unless there will be clear demonstrable harm.

This policy is underpinning many of Malcolm Scott Consultants’ negotiations with Officers. It has allowed the practice to develop a successful methodology to examine available evidence; present it in a manner which supports residential applications; and, importantly, to work with Officers to arrive at a preferred design.

Paul Barton is a Director at Malcolm Scott Consultants.

For further information, please contact Paul Barton at: Malcolm Scott Consultants Ltd, Grove House, 1 Loves Grove, Worcester, WR1 3BU T: 01905 726353 E: paulb@malcolmscottcons.co.uk F: 01905 611221

In order to define our potential, both in social and business environments, creating a good first impression can be crucial in securing a subconscious trust in others of our capabilities as individuals and our delivery of service in business.

These neurological assessments of each other socially, are the same processes we use when making judgements and reactions to our surroundings too. In short, its all well and good wearing a freshly dry-cleaned suit to meet a potential new client; but where you meet them can also be key.

Enquiries: corporate@penyardhouse.co.uk | Tel: 01989 760716 www.penyardhouse.co.uk

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businessNEWS

INSPIRED PERSONAL TRAINING Health Research has long established the link between fitness and well being and organisational performance.

Inspired Personal Training (IPT), based in Worcester, has been leading the way in supporting executives, organisations, teams and individuals in getting ‘fit for higher performance’.

Led by Leighton Bentley, and his team at Norton, IPT work with organisations and individuals (large and small) to provide a range of wellness programmes to address an organisations needs:

DRPGROUP STUDIO LAUNCH OPENED WITH A BOOM

n Fitness and wellness programmes for the welfare of all staff

The drpgroup officially opened their new Midlands studio complex with a launch party recently. The company themed the event in a 1940s style, complete with a spitfire outside replicating the original purpose of the building as a spitfire engine parts and storage production facility.

n Team building events n Individual training as part of an occupational health programme to complement HR policies and reduce sickness/absence

LOCAL COMPANY WINS NATIONAL MORRISONS CONTRACT

The company have spent £3.6 million on kitting out the new building and restoring some of its original features. All drpgroup clients were invited to the event and given the chance to experience the wartime ambience outside before being taken on tours of the building by members of the drp team. Each department had the chance to showcase what they do, but with a fun element to it.

A Worcester-based software company is celebrating as its paperless Data Management System has gone live for the Morrisons Food Safety Auditing Team and will be used to audit 500 national retail stores.

The evening gave the drpgroup the opportunity to really deliver on their strapline of ‘anything’s possible’, ending the night with a projection mapping finale on the building itself.

Applied Principles, a software and hardware developer, started the project to provide nationwide food safety audits for the retail giant in December 2011.

www.drpgroup.com

n Assist in creating a healthy workforce n Protecting and investing in an organisation’s people is critical to sustained business success. IPT’s programmes are tailored to the organisation’s/client’s needs and should be a part of every organisation’s HR strategy of investing in their people. www.inspiredpt.co.uk

Prior to introducing the new system entitled Principal Suite™ food safety auditors at Morrisons used a paper based, 50 plus questionnaire system, across 15 departments per store. From this, a report for the store manager was compiled with the entire information then reproduced as a spreadsheet.

This is the first time that Principle Suite™ has been used for multi-site auditing in the retail sector. www.appliedprinciples.eu

ECO2SOLAR MANAGING DIRECTOR NAMED ‘MIDLANDS ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR’ Kidderminster businessman and renewable energy pioneer Paul Hutchens has been named ‘Midlands Entrepreneur of the Year’ at the 2013 Midlands Business Awards.

Paul accepted his accolade from Shalini Khemka, Chief Executive of award sponsors E2Exchange, and guest speaker Lord Karan Bilimoria at the prestigious award ceremony recently at the Hilton Metropole Hotel (Birmingham).

The award recognises Paul’s achievements to date since setting up his own successful renewable energy firm, Eco2Solar, in 2007.

developments, rapid growth and best practice in providing solar photovoltaic, solar thermal and heat pump system installations for a broad range of commercial, social and domestic clients throughout the West Midlands and UK wide.

His latest venture has seen him move into energy efficiency technologies for the non-domestic market with the launch of Eco2Energy, which aims to help businesses make significant savings on their energy bills. www.eco2solar.co.uk

At the helm of Eco2Solar, Paul has led continued

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Paul Hutchens with Shalini Khemka, Chief Executive of award sponsors E2Exchange, and guest speaker Lord Karan Bilimoria

047 2/7/13 09:46:16

moverSandshakerS

KEVIN PROBERT, ENGLISH MUTUAL

AMANDA MILLICHIP, DESTINATION WORCESTERSHIRE Amanda joins our marketing department to promote Worcester City as part of the Destination Worcestershire team following the Chamber’s successful bid to market Tourism Services on behalf of Worcester City Council. With 13 years of experience working in local authority tourism, 11 in Worcester, she offers a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Amanda will be delivering a marketing plan for the city & Worcester Christmas Fayre to entice visitors to not only stop for a day, but stay for the weekend. www.hwchamber.co.uk

Kevin Probert has joined English Mutual’s Employee Benefits division, as the company continues to grow its presence in the UK. Kevin specialises in Auto-Enrolment, Group Pensions and Business Protection as well as having specialist knowledge in Wealth Management and Risk Assessment. He joins the extensive Employee Benefits division at English Mutual under the helm of Elliott Silk and will be working with existing and new clients to the business.

With nearly 20 years’ experience in the financial services industry, Kevin’s career started at Sun Life of Canada where he qualified as a business advisor after completing his HNC in Business Management. After joining Lloyds as a corporate advisor, he then left in 1999 to set up his own practice. Kevin has extensive experience in working with both corporate and private clients and his core client propositions are about problem solving to produce end goals for clients.

GEORGE GIBSON, HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce and welcome George Gibson to their membership and marketing team.

L-R Laura Quigley and Michelle Dudson

MICHELLE DUDSON AND LAURA QUIGLEY, GOUGH BAILEY WRIGHT Gough Bailey Wright, have welcomed another two faces to its ever growing team.

In addition to this, he will also be assisting with the Chamber’s marketing and social media teams to help deliver a variety of different content to our members and help promote their business interests.

Michelle Dudson joins the award winning agency’s design team, having previously worked for a well-known marketing company before going freelance, but Gough Bailey Wright has enticed her back to agency life.

Re-joining Gough Bailey Wright is Laura Quigley, PR Account Manager, who left the agency six months ago to go on a sabbatical to teach children in South Korea. She now returns to work in the PR department, continuing the team’s expansion.

www.hwchamber.co.uk

www.gough.co.uk

George has joined the Chamber with a strong background in marketing, account management and local recruitment and will be supporting all new Chamber members within their first 12 months of membership.

www.englishmutual.com

LIAM WEAVER, BRITANNIA BENNETTS

GRACE RALFE, HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Britannia Bennetts on Enigma Business Park, Malvern, has announced the promotion of Liam Weaver.

Within the Malvern family run removal and storage company, Liam’s role has developed from the operations department into that of Removal Co-ordinator. He undertakes surveys of all types of property needing removals, with a specialism in the requirements of international removals and shipping. www.britanniabennetts.com

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Ian Jones has recently joined Ninety Five Creative as the new Web Developer.

Ian graduated from the University of Worcester with a first class honours degree in Computing and History. Ian will be focusing on expanding the company’s web portfolio.

Grace Ralfe joints the Chamber as Events Sales and Marketing Assistant having spent some considerable time successfully involved in sales, from newspapers to garden gnomes. So, with this in mind, there will be no lack of enthusiasm, being a lover of live events including the theatre, this promises to be a very exciting and productive time for all concerned.

www.ninetyfivecreative.co.uk

www.hwchamber.co.uk

Ian Jones, Ninety Five Creative

Charlie Weller, Worcester Warriors Worcester Warriors have recently appointed Charlie Weller as their new Rugby Sales Executive.

Charlie joins Warriors with the principal role of securing new business for Corporate Hospitality, Sponsorship & Advertising for the Warriors/Sixways Stadium.

Charlie joins Warriors having previously headed up the Cruise department for a Travel Consortium. www.wrfc.co.uk

July/August 2013

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moverSandshakerS RECRUITING THE OAKLAND WAY Midlands based multi temperature supply chain distribution specialist, Oakland International, has launched a dedicated Careers Website, (www. oakland-career.com) designed to provide a business overview as well as information on careers and training opportunities available with the expanding supply chain operator.

Encompassing two divisions in the UK and one in Ireland, Oakland International is aiming to maximise staff potential and employment opportunities by attracting high calibre people key to their long term success.

THOMAS HORTON ANNOUNCES PARTNER PROMOTIONS JAN BAILEY, WORCESTERSHIRE LOCAL ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIP Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (WLEP) is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Jan Bailey to its executive team.

Jan will be based at the WLEP offices, Brindley Court, Gresley Road, Worcester.

Thomas Horton LLP have announced a trio of partner promotions as part of plans to strengthen the firm’s long-established heritage in the region.

Richard Hull, Head of Criminal Legal Services, who has worked at the legal firm for eight years, is now the practice’s Deputy Managing Partner.

Fiona Lawson-Hughes, Head of Children’s Matters, and Jeff Taylor, head of the firm’s Corporate and Commercial division, have both been promoted to full partnership status with immediate effect. www.thomashorton.co.uk

Continuous improvement in both the marketplace and the workplace is vital and so career progression is supported through the firm’s dedicated training facility, the Oakland Academy, designed specifically for employees and offering a framework of courses based around foundation and intermediate level training courses including operational, core skills and health and safety topics, through to more advanced leadership, management and specialist qualifications such as Accountancy.

Jan joins the Partnership’s independent executive team as Communications and PR Executive with responsibility for raising the profile of Worcestershire as a great place in which to invest, work, live and play.

She will also be responsible for delivering a variety of communications through both printed and electronic media.

ADRIAN MARKLEW, QUICKSILVER PR

Jan brings with her more than 15 years’ experience in similar roles, most recently as Project Manager of the ‘Over the Hill?’ campaign at the Rural Media Company. www.wlep.co.uk

FAB FIVE APPRENTICES LAND PERMANENT CONTRACTS Last years intake of appretices impressed partners at Ormerod Rutter so much that the company is now recruiting the same number, plus an IT apprentice.

Dan Stokes (Bromsgrove), Oliver Maiden (Kidderminster), Amelia Roberts (Bewdley), Sam Batkin (Worcester) and Grace Humphreys (Stourport) are each spending three months in tax, limited company, small business and audit departments before working in a specific department from September to further develop their skills. www.ormerodrutter.co.uk

LISA KEMP, MFG SOLICITORS County law firm mfg Solicitors has added to their team with the appointment of Lisa Kemp as assistant solicitor within their widely respected employment division.

Experienced in a variety of HR, employee and employer-related matters, Lisa will report to partner and head of division, Sally Morris.

Sally said: “Lisa is a talented employment specialist with a bright future so I am delighted to have her in the team.”

www.quicksilverpr.co.uk

ROSS PRINCE, WORCESTERSHIRE GROUP OF ACCOUNTANTS Ross Prince, an audit manager in the Midlands office of national audit, tax and advisory firm Crowe Clark Whitehill, has been appointed chairman of the Worcestershire Group of Chartered Accountants.

The group, which helps local chartered accountancy firms and their staff meet professional training requirements via the provision of courses, is part of Birmingham and West Midlands Society of Chartered Accountants. He succeeds Rob Richards of Richards Sandy Partnership.

www.mfgsolicitors.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Evesham based public relations company Quicksilver PR has strengthened its team with the appointment of Adrian Marklew as account director. Adrian knows Worcestershire well having previously led on communications for Redditch Borough Council and covered the county in his previous role heading up the Midlands regional office of a national PR agency.

He joins at an exciting time for the company, working for clients including Evesham Market Town Partnership, Farncombe Estate, housing associations and a social enterprise. Other Quicksilver PR clients include a literary festival, an art gallery, refrigeration and manufacturing companies.

049 2/7/13 09:46:33

lastword

NEXT ISSUE OF BUSINESS DIRECTION... CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY The theme for the next edition of Business Direction is Corporate Social Responsibility. For the Last Word we spoke to Chair of the Worcestershire Ambassadors Granville Orange, who gave his view on the importance of CSR to local businesses and their CSR awards at the Chamber Business Awards 2013.

Adam Warren, Managing Director of Greenworks Solutions, added: “Our business practices of providing a good working environment, satisfying career progression, and a reduction of the overall negative impact that we make to the environment, are part of forging sustainable growth for the business.”

When they launched 3 years ago, the Worcestershire Ambassadors’ CSR Awards were greeted with enthusiasm and delight, and quite rightly.

To find out more about the categories, and to download an application form, visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/Calender/

This year again, entries are underway to nominate those individuals and businesses who are trying to make a difference to where we live, how we live and how others live their lives. Both are open to all businesses across the county, whatever size or type.

Award Categories: Environment - Entrants will be judged on their commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of the business and efforts made to source local suppliers and working with like-minded organisations.

The Worcestershire Ambassadors’ CSR Awards can be entered over the coming months up until the Wednesday 31 July deadline, after which the judging process will then see entries narrowed down, ready to announce first the finalists and then the overall winners at the Chamber Business Awards at the Chateau Impney on Thursday 26 September.

The categories are: ‘Community’, ‘Sustainability in Business’, ‘Commitment to People Development’, and an individual award for excellence in CSR. There are so many fantastic community initiatives going on across Worcestershire, in businesses, homes, community groups and sports clubs, and it is the aim of the Worcestershire Ambassadors to applaud this, because it is all for the good of our county. In so many businesses across Worcestershire it is clear to see the hard work and commitment to the community, and there are so many individuals doing exactly the same every day. If you know someone who does this, why not put them forward to the Ambassadors’ CSR Awards, and help give them the recognition they deserve.

The winners of last year’s CSR awards were (in the Workplace and staff category), Eco2Solar, based in Kidderminster. In the community category, the winner

Community - Judges will be looking at the involvement of businesses within the community and support given to charities.

Granville Orange

was: Worcester University, based in Worcester. In the environmental category, the winner was: Greenworks Solutions, based in Redditch.

Workplace and staff - Businesses will be evaluated in regards to workplace initiatives, employee support and going beyond the legal minimum requirements Individual award for excellence in CSR - This special award will be for an individual who has personally made an outstanding contribution to the community and commitment to CSR.

The 3 winners of the individual category were: Ian Spike Betterton, Glyn Harding the University of Worcester and Jean Wilson.

“People are at the heart of our business and in the current economic climate, we recognise that it is our staff that set us apart,” commented Paul Hutchens, Managing Director of Eco2Solar, winner of the Workplace and Staff category. “That’s why we have chosen to invest time and effort in developing a workforce programme that supports personal growth and development.

Who are the Worcestershire Ambassadors?

The Worcestershire Ambassadors are individuals who care passionately about the future health and prosperity of the county.

Drawn from all strands of the community, the Ambassadors share a common enthusiasm to create a county to be proud of.

People are at the heart of our business and in the current economic climate, we recognise that it is our staff that set us apart

The Worcestershire Ambassadors’ objective is to promote all that is great about living and working in this county, linking organisations together and developing the social and economic prosperity of the county.

To include a news story in the Corporate Social Responsibility edition of BD please send your stories to businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk 050 BD14.indd 50

July/August 2013

2/7/13 09:46:36

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