Business Direction 20

Direction

Business

CONFIDENCE DRIVING REVIVAL OF CONSTRUCTION SECTOR PAGE 30

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR 2013 Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

July/August 2014 Issue 20

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Dir ect ion

FIRSTWORD

IT’S GREAT TO BE BACK!

CONFIDENCE L OF DRIVING REVIVA TOR CONSTRUCTION SEC PAGE 30

rce r of Comme ershire Chambe THE YEAR 2013 CHAMBER OFpublished by Herefordshire and Worcest

2014 Issue July/August

20

n Business Directio

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 Mike Ashton 0845 641 1641

mikea@hwchamber.co.uk Emily Martin 0845 641 1641 ext 232

emilym@hwchamber.co.uk

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

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

ADVERTISING Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 887 3805 helen.gowland@distinctivegroup.co.uk

FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

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

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.

A huge thanks to you for your support and kind words.

There are so many good news stories, not only around the economic recovery, evidenced in the results from the Quarterly Economic Survey, but also some of our own home grown business success stories.

Viezu Technologies Ltd and Guy Mucklow of Postcode Anywhere have been presented with a Queen’s Award for Industry and our businesses are engaging with Land Rover. We are enjoying great Export success with members exporting to Brazil, Russia, UAE, China and the USA. The Expo at the Three Counties Showground was a great success and we are now gripped with Awards fever as I write. As this edition of Business Direction is published, we won’t know the results of our hotly contested business awards, but we will all be preparing for our glittering awards evening at the Bransford House Hotel on July 10th, where we will be crowning the Business of the Year, amongst other winners, some of whom will have the opportunity to go forward to the national British Chambers of Commerce awards.

The Chamber continues to work closely with our partners across the two counties, lobbying government on businesses, behalf and we were pleased to welcome a visit from the British Chamber of Commerce’s Policy Team, who came to Malvern to canvas opinion from local businesses about barriers to growth, ahead of the General Election and the BCC’s business manifesto.

Evidence from our Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) shows that exports continue to flourish with 17% of exporters reporting an increase in export sales in Q1 from figures taken from our QES. Our members are exporting, quite literally, all over the world. Don’t forget to look out for export training opportunities from UKTI and learn how to develop your business through export with the experts.

Finally, I want to say a big thank you to Sharon Williams, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Jim McBride, Chamber President, and the rest of the brilliant Chamber team who have done really superb work in my absence. I am now whole heartedly (no pun intended) looking forward to the next few exciting months in the two counties and seeing our businesses and the economy grow from strength to strength.

First word

3

Chamber news

4-5

Business news

7-8

Business news

12-13

Business news

16-17

International trade

19-21

Chamber training

26-27

Big Interview

28-29

Cover story

30-31

Conference Worcestershire

38

Destination Worcestershire

39

Chamber events

40-41

New Members

42-43

Members services

44

Policy

45

Charity news

47

Movers and Shakers Last word

48-49 50

28

Mike Ashton mikea@hwchamber.co.uk

30

Our Patrons are:

July/August 2014

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

03

CHAMBERNEWS

GROWTH VOUCHERS HELPING RAISE YOUR PROFILE WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES THE NEW CHAMBER WEBSITE Small businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are being encouraged to apply for new ‘vouchers’ from the Government’s Growth Voucher programme to help them grow.

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are acting as a delivery partner for the scheme, and can help you along the application process.

John Legge, Managing Director of John P Legge Computer Services Limited, did just that and contacted the Chamber to discuss the programme and how it could help him.

John said: “I first met with Chamber staff to discuss a voucher towards web and digital marketing development costs. They were really helpful and helped me to fill out the application form to good effect.

The application went through quickly and the next week I was granted a voucher towards half of AIM Internet’s costs for the marketing in SEO and Web searching. I was very pleased with the service granted”.

Businesses can apply for up to £2,000, to match their own investment, to be spent on strategic business advice covering several areas, including: finance, recruiting and developing staff, leadership and management, marketing, and making the most of digital technology.

The Growth Vouchers programme will distribute vouchers to around 20,000 small businesses in England, focussing on small businesses who have never sought business advice before.

The programme is available to all businesses which are VAT registered, have been trading for over a year and have 49 employees or less. In the first instance, businesses need to visit www. gov.uk/apply-growth-vouchers to establish their eligibility and register their interest.

Our brand new website has launched, with a fresh new look and several user-friendly improvements, including a new fully searchable Members Directory with over 1,300 listings.

The enahanced comprehensive Members Directory with improved search tools, now offers searches by sector, employee numbers and area. There is also the option to only view businesses offering Chamber Member discounts on products and services.

The site is now easier to navigate and includes everything you need to know about Chamber services, from International Trade and Training to Networking Events, and with online

booking you can secure a place on the event of your choice in an instant.

There is also a whole section devoted to member news, and we are always pleased to post good news from our members.

The responsive design is fully compatible with tablets and mobile devices, so you can pick up business opportunities on the move. The site is also open to non Chamber members and has a wealth of information to support your business.

Log on now at www.hwchamber.co.uk to see the latest offering from the Chamber of the Year.

If you want to be part of that success and are interested in online advertising opportunities please contact the Marketing Team today on 0845 641 1641.

For more information or to apply, log onto www.gov.uk/apply-growthvouchers. Alternatively, contact the Chamber on 0845 641 1641 for support.

Apply for a grant of up to £2,000 to pay for strategic business advice To find out more about the Growth Vouchers Programme and apply for a voucher contact:

www.gov.uk/apply-growth-vouchers

DELIVERY PARTNER

SUCCESS STORIES ON THE WEBSITE We love to hear about your successes and are always keen to put good news on our website. Our new website includes a success button feature with which we highlight our success story of the week.

Keep sending us your good news and look out to see if your story is the success of the week! businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk

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July/August 2014

CHAMBERNEWS

FOLLOW THE SUCCESS STORY OF THE CHAMBER AND ITS MEMBERS IN THE PRESENT ....

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is having a cracking year. As ‘Chamber of the Year’, we have enjoyed a whole year of success...as have some of our members.

We were awarded ‘Chamber of the Year’ partly because ‘membership is at the heart of everything we do’ and we are very pleased to have helped many of our members with their own successes in the last year. Last year we were one of only 6 chambers (out of 53) to show positive growth in membership.

The Chamber is very proud to have been placed in the Top Ten ranking of 53 accredited Chambers for our response to the Quarterly Economic Survey (QES). Over 300 businesses filled in the survey in Quarter 1 of this year and of course, the more responses we send, the more influence our opinions have in Government.

We were delighted to be able to give away an array of amazing prizes kindly donated by our members during our scratch card promotion, when we invited members and non-members to become winners too.

Our Events Team produce over 300 events per year and the highlights of those this year have been the Chamber Expo, held at the Three Counties Showground in March 2014, and the stunning Christmas Fayre held in Worcester in early December. The Expo attracted over 130 exhibitors and 900 visitors and our Christmas Fayre attracted over 100,000 visitors and 100 exhibitors.

Our brand new website has just been launched and this offers a new fully searchable Members Directory with over 1,300 listings. The site is now easier to navigate and includes everything you need to know about Chamber services from International Trade and Training to Networking Events, and with online booking you can secure a place on the event of your choice in an instant We have just been awarded our Level 2 certificate

by Worcestershire Works Well, and have passed our Chamber Accreditation with flying colours. Our apprentice Abigail Robbins was named Apprentice of the Year for Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and our customer satisfaction scores are at an all time high, with 71% of members being satisfied with their membership.

We also have silver status for Investors in People.

We are delivering tourism services on behalf of Worcester City Council that includes marketing the city as a tourist destination, managing the Tourist Information Centre and organising a vibrant programme of events.

Visit Worcestershire has attracted 60,000 visitors a month to the county’s official tourism website www. visitworcestershire.org and 10,000 Twitter followers.

Destination Worcestershire now boasts 250 members and we are the only official distributor of the official Worcestershire flag.

Eckington Manor and Brockencote Hall Hotel, two of our tourism members, have been honoured at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2014, as a result of

entering the Visit Worcestershire Awards for Excellence, and we are really proud to have such outstanding venues in our region.

Our Members have also seen great success this year and the Chamber has helped to facilitate some of those wins. Herbfarmacy is an organic skincare business based in Herefordshire which sells products made from herbs grown and processed on the company farm.

Herbfarmacy has used UKTI’s services to internationalise their website, then work with a Japanese distributor to launch new products in 8 outlets.

Viezu Technologies and Guy Mucklow from Postcode Anywhere have both been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise and the Morgan Motor Company have been awarded an Autocar award for the Morgan 3 Wheeler at the first Autocar Stars Event.

Kingspan, based in Herefordshire, have been given a Herefordshire Diamond County Award which recognises local businesses that demonstrate a real commitment to investing in the local community.

IE Developments have won great acclaim for their ground-breaking innovative Eco development at St. Katherine’s Field at Cradley, Herefordshire, the first site in the UK to achieve the AECB Silver accreditation and one of the only developments in the county to be A rated, with EPC’s in excess of 100. Worcester Bosch also

awarded them House builder of the year 2012 under their sustainable 2020 initiative.

The Hereford office of national accountancy firm, Haines Watts is celebrating success, having won Accountancy Firm of the Year – SMEs, at the annual FDs Excellence Awards and Oakland International, Redditch has been awarded Logistics Company of the Year at the Irish Logistics and Transport Awards.

It is tremendous to see business success across the two counties and the Chamber is committed to supporting businesses on their journey to success. Keep sending us your success stories and look out for our story about future success in the next edition of Business Direction.

Scratch Card Promotion Prize

Kindly Donated by

Morgan car for the weekend

Morgan Motor Company

Amethyst and citrine necklace, sterling silver

The Genuine Gemstone Company

£75 Webbs Vouchers

Webbs

Silent Night Lavender Sleep Treatment spa day for 2

Dormy House Hotel & Spa

Introductory Footplate Steam Experience

Severn Valley Railway

£100 voucher for the ‘Great Little Breaks’ website

Hotelshop

Bed and Breakfast for 2 including a 60 minute spa treatment

The Elms

Westons Cider box of mixed ciders “Cider Makers Choice’

Westons Cider

Anja Potze gift voucher £100

Anja Potze Fine Jewellery Ltd

4 Worcester Cricket passes and 2 car parking places

Worcestershire County Cricket Club

Half Day IT Training Session with John P Legge for up to 6 people

John P Legge Training

20 Minute Helicopter Ride over Hereford for 2 people

Kidwells Law Solicitors

2 complimentary tickets to She Stoops to Conquer

Malvern Theatres

3 course dinner and coffee for 2 in the Oscars Restaurant

The Southcrest Manor Hotel

A Spa treatment; use of the pool and a light lunch; for 2 people

Holiday Inn Birmingham - Bromsgrove

Four people to play a round of golf

Gaudet Luce Golf Club

4 tickets to a Worcester Wolves match & opportunity to meet players

Worcester Wolves

Painting by Peter J Wale “The Commandery Worcester’”

Postcode Anywhere

Tablet

TechTeam

The Abbey Hotel dinner x 4 voucher

The Abbey

Thank you to all supporting businesses and congratulations to our winners

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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TO P U

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email Tewkesbury@basepoint.co.uk Contact Claire or Emma on 01684 854444

Basepoint Tewkesbury is located just 2 minutes’ drive from J9 M5.

Oakfield Close, Tewkesbury Business Park, Tewkesbury, Gloucester GL20 8SD

BUSINESSNEWS

BUSINESS MOBILE MESSAGING SPECIALIST DEVELOPS NEW RETAIL PRODUCT FOR SMALLER BUSINESSES Malvern based, international business text messaging company Textlocal, recently recognised as one of the fastest-growing businesses in the UK, launches a campaign to enable SMEs to try business text messaging.

n Client accounting for small businesses available anywhere, at any time and on mobile devices n Accountant tools for management reporting and final accounts production n Personal financial management John Painter, Managing Partner, CB Chartered Accountants said: “The number of clients requesting a cloud based solution continues to grow and, it is no exaggeration to say, this client demand is changing the face of the accounting industry.

We have a number of clients on board with the Xero system, that system works and our clients like it.” cbcharteredaccountants.com

Textlocal operates from centres in Malvern and Chester, and for promotion in the Midlands area is working with Worcester based media partner Nexus Creative.

John Painter, Managing Partner Textlocal’s new retail product

www.textlocal.com / www.nexuscl.com

CYBER ATTACKS: COMING TO A SCREEN NEAR YOU

Helen Davenport, Wragge Lawrence, Graham & Co

A range of energy efficiency improvements are being made to Sanctuary Group’s offices in Worcester as part of a programme to reduce the environmental impact of its operations.

Sanctuary has made the improvements to reduce its carbon footprint and ensure long-term energy cost savings.

Work to the premises in Castle Street includes replacement of the main slate roof, new upgraded double glazed timber windows, and fitting of more efficient air conditioning and internal ventilation units.

Hacks and attempted hacks are happening daily, with those responsible ranging from hacktivists to disaffected employees, foreign state entities and terrorists.

Chamber members will also hear more about this

ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS AT WORCESTER OFFICES

The leading housing and care provider is carrying out works to create greener, cleaner offices for its 1,000 Worcester-based employees.

The Government regards cyber attacks as one of its top four risks to the UK’s economy and security.

On 5 June 2014 the Government launched `Cyber Essentials’ to create an industry-led organisational cyber standard. It enshrines best practice for protecting businesses, large or small.

CB Chartered Accountants have partnered with market-leaders Xero to provide cloud accounting solutions to local SMEs. Technical innovation and accountancy may not appear to be natural companions, but the latest developments in cloud technology are being used by the profession to help small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) achieve growth and profitability.

In the cloud, there’s no need to install and run applications over a desktop computer. Instead, you pay for the software by monthly subscription.

Xero is an online accounting platform designed specifically for the cloud which provides:

In addition to helping businesses send millions of messages to their customers, employees and members, Textlocal’s exclusive online platform, ‘Messenger’, provides businesses with a self-service, automated system. ‘Messenger’ is used by over 100,000 customers from all business sectors, including Groupon, Optimax, La Tasca, Redrow and Wickes. Over 30 million texts are sent per month through the system. Textlocal was recently recognised for their growth and innovation, being listed at number 45 in ‘The Sunday Times Hiscox Tech Track, 100 2013’ and number 26 in the Deloitte UK Fast 50. Building on this national and international success, the company has developed a new ‘credit or gift card’ type product, which allows businesses to try text messaging multiple customers for just £4.

The recent e-Bay experience hit the headlines but all organisations, large or small, are vulnerable. The insurance market for these sorts of risks is in an early stage of development.

IS YOUR ACCOUNTANT’S HEAD IN THE CLOUDS?

standard as it is adopted by public and private procurement teams across the UK. Chamber Patron Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co has a dedicated multi-disciplinary team which advises on how best to protect your business from the legal issues arising from cyber attacks.

For more information please contact Helen Davenport – Helen.davenport@wragge-law.com

Sanctuary will also be able to generate its own electricity from the installation of new solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to three of their four city centre offices.

The latest improvements are part of a range of energy efficient measures the group has made, including its award-winning ‘Data Centre’ which harvests heat generated from IT servers and re-uses it to heat the offices. www.sanctuary-housing.co.uk

www.wragge-law.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

07

BUSINESSNEWS

HEWETT RECRUITMENT CHAMPIONING ‘GOOD RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN’ Hewett Recruitment are championing the Recruitment & Employment Confederations ‘Good Recruitment Campaign’ in Herefordshire & Worcestershire.

WARRIORS SET TO LAUNCH REGIONAL ACADEMY CENTRES Worcester Warriors will launch six new Regional Academy Centres later this year where the most talented rugby players in the Midlands will have access to some of the finest training environments in the country.

The Centres, which are all set to open this autumn, will be based at Telford College of Arts and Technology, Broadstreet Rugby Club, Hereford Cathedral School, Luctonians Rugby Club, Warwick School and a Birmingham location to be announced at a future date. They will run alongside the club’s current centre at Sixways.

Youngsters between the ages of 13 and 18 will receive up to seven hours of contact time every week under the guidance of the club’s experienced academy coaches.

Warriors’ Interim Chief Executive, Anthony Glossop, said: “I believe the introduction of these Regional Academy Centres will be transformational for the club as they will allow us to take our brand into new areas to unearth the next generation of Warriors first-team players and supporters.” www.warriors.co.uk

WHAT ASPECTS OF YOUR BUSINESS KEEP YOU AWAKE AT NIGHT? “What do our customers think?”

“What do our customers want?”

“How are our staff doing?”

n ShARP - a direct opportunity to engage our consultants with your research and analysis needs, either short or long term.

Instead of getting to the heart of these issues, other things get in the way and it’s easy to put research on the backburner and miss out on vital insight that could help add value to your business.

To help deliver critical business insight to the local business community, the Applied Research Group (ARG) within Worcester Business School is working with businesses to address their research/knowledge transfer needs in a variety of ways.

Depending on the length of time and investment required to gain the insight you need, the ARG offer three ways of meeting your research needs:

n KEEN/KTP - an ERDF-subsidised opportunity to recruit a graduate to develop and transfer their knowledge into business growth and innovation over a 6-24 month period. n Match-funded PhD - a subsidised opportunity to research a specific business issue through in-depth, innovative research over a 3 year period.

For an informal chat about your research needs, contact Dr Helen Watts (Lead Consultant) by email h.watts@worc.ac.uk, or dial 01905 855316.

The campaign, created by businesses for businesses, exists to promote the critical importance that good recruitment practice plays in organisational success.

As demand returns to the economy and businesses are looking to hire more staff, fine-tuning their resourcing strategies becomes critical. This is the right time to create a national focus on good recruitment. The campaign will help organisations to reinvigorate their recruiting strategies so they provide a better candidate experience and work more effectively with their recruitment partners.

A self-assessment tool-kit is available to enable employers to measure yourself against the good practice Charter, allowing you to define your strengths and weaknesses and identify how to improve processes and systems in order to create a better candidate experience. Employers can browse the information, data, case studies and research on good recruitment practice. For further information and details on how to access the Good Recruitment Campaign visit: www.rec.uk.com www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

MALVERN INSTRUMENTS TO AQUIRE MICROCAL BUSINESS FROM GE HEALTHCARE LIFE SCIENCES Malvern Instruments has entered into an agreement with GE Healthcare Life Sciences to acquire the company’s MicroCal™ microcalorimetry business.

Financial terms were not disclosed. The acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to complete in the third quarter of 2014.

MicroCal develops and supplies easy-to-use microcalorimeters. These are used to study proteins and other biomolecules in drug discovery and development. The acquisition will further strengthen Malvern’s expanding portfolio of analytical solutions for customers in core pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical markets. Within Malvern, MicroCal will retain its key location in Northampton, Massachusetts and will become an integral part of the Malvern business. www.malvern.com

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 641 164 www.hwchamber.co.uk/support/finances/finance-finder 08

July/August 2014

FOCUSONLEGAL

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

09

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

RADIATION WORRIES? KEEP IT SIMPLE! When you think about the West Midlands, you might be forgiven for not immediately thinking about “Nuclear” or “Radiation”. Such thoughts are normally reserved for places such as Chernobyl, Fukushima, or perhaps Cumbria’s Sellafield.

So, now you may be thinking about “Radiation” and will probably presume that this has nothing to do with your business. However, you could be wrong.

The truth is that radiation is all around us. In the equipment that we use; in health centres, dentists, vets, schools, manufacturing, and many businesses.

Most of it is present in low levels, for example, the radioactive source Americium 241, in your office smoke detector, and although generally safe, you still should still be aware of the many regulations and legislation surrounding radiation.

radioactive. Help is at hand, at highly competitive rates, from Worcester-based Energy Simple Ltd. The company offers radiation protection advice and solutions to businesses large and small, helping them to comply with the law and ensure that they operate safely.

At the helm of Energy Simple Ltd is the vastly experienced Robert Wilson, aka “Seth”. Seth’s experience includes a decade serving on nuclear submarines in the Royal Navy; operational and decommissioning support in nuclear power-stations; and involvement in numerous projects in the Oil and Gas, Mining and Recycling industries. During his work, Seth has acquired a network of incredibly skilled and highly qualified consultants, advisors and staff who are always willing to go the extra mile. With a unique and reliable business model, Seth and his team can offer the best advice and service at a fraction of the cost of bigger companies - so, why not let Energy Simple take your radiation worries away, today?

As an employer; it is your legal obligation under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to ensure that your company complies with the regulations - namely the Ionising Radiations Regulations 1999. Never heard of them? Well then, they probably don’t effect you, or do they?

What’s more, because Energy Simple works all over the West-Midlands area, as well as having consultants working further afield, they can provide peace of mind to fellow small businesses, and are on call to offer a personal and reliable service, according to the client’s needs and schedule.

Luckily, now you do not need to travel far to find a highly specialised company that can advise on all things

In addition to general radiation advice, they offer specialised health physics and land remediation services,

Worcestershire Proof of Concept

contamination monitoring, environmental surveying, radioactive waste management solutions, and more.

Energy Simple is a small, specialist company that is dedicated to taking the worry out of environmental and safety regulations by providing common sense solutions to radiation issues. A local quality service on your doorstep.

They look forward to your challenge.

For more information, radiation advice or a no obligation quote, please call: 0800 024 6661.

Your Virtual Assistant and Administrative Support Partner n Word Processing

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n Transcription n Copy Typing n Proof Reading n Creation and Maintenance of Spreadsheets & Databases

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Call 0300 123 14 40 Email info@business-central.co.uk

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July/August 2014

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

GET INTO “THE PROMOTIONAL MIX” Promotional merchandise incorporates products that are branded with a logo and are given away to promote a company, corporate image, brand, campaign, message or event.

The giving of gifts goes back throughout the history of man and in the late 20th century a new industry evolved around the concept of giving gifts to existing and prospective customers to gain business and build corporate identities.

Why use promotional products? Recent research undertaken by the British Promotional Merchandise Association discovered that 69% of companies use promotional products to target customers effectively, 52% agreed that their brand message lasted longer and 46% stated that it created loyalty amongst their customers.

Is it more effective than normal advertising? The same study revealed that when comparing promotional products against other forms of marketing such as TV, print and online advertising 83% could recall a company from a promotional product, 68% from a TV advert, 60% from a print advert and only 32% from an online advert.

Does it actually work and how does that compare when converting from the initial advert or gift to a sale? Well 21% made a purchase after receiving a branded corporate gift, 13.4% made a purchase after seeing an advertisement and a mere 7% purchased after seeing a TV advertisement.

Most people just throw them away. The study also showed that 87% of recipients retain their promotional gift for longer than 12 months: 18% respondents having kept a branded mug for the longest length of time, 15% a USB stick and 12% a pen.

In 2009, a PPAI study based on purchasing habits of end users, revealed that promotional products ranked higher than any other preferred choice of advertising and marketing in the following areas: n Ability to achieve long term memorability at the cost of paying for only a single exposure n Flexibility to fit the cost of the medium to any budget n Ability to bond the audience to the advertiser to promote repeat business n Audience friendly (not likely to cause offence or be regarded as a nuisance) n Ability to generate traffic at trade shows and events The research by BPMA in 2012 also showed that 49% of buyers of promotional merchandise have increased their spend compared to the previous year and 33% plan to increase again in 2014.

The Promotional Mix Ltd has been trading since the early 1990’s. Offering an extensive range of promotional products, corporate gifts and personalised awards, they have released their latest catalogue for 2014/15 with new branding and an improved website.

Sarah Brooks from The Promotional Mix in Droitwich explained, “We experienced a steady decline in sales from 2009 to 2013, but the last quarter of 2013/14 finished 20% up on the previous year, and the first quarter for 2014/15 is already 50% up on last year with a full month still to go.”

Sarah also added “We offer excellent service and competitive pricing, free visuals and product samples, no obligation quotations and friendly helpful advice. So if you are looking for something new or need help in getting your message across to your customers, get in touch to make an appointment to discuss your next project”.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

For a free copy of their new catalogue, please email sarah@promotional-mix.co.uk call us on Tel: 01299 252090

www.promotional-mix.co.uk

011

BUSINESSNEWS

LADIES DAY 2014 Worcestershire County Cricket Club is pleased to announce that their hugely popular Ladies Day is taking place on Thursday 31 July 2014 in the Chestnut Marquee.

Take in the atmosphere and enjoy the pleasant surroundings as Worcestershire take on Derbyshire Falcons in the Royal London One-Day Cup match.

Tickets are priced at £49 per guest or purchase a table of 10 for £450 (inc VAT). Price includes entry into the ground, drinks reception, a sumptuous buffet lunch of salads, cold meats and potatoes followed by a traditional afternoon tea. www.wccc.co.uk

POLITICAL PRESENCE AT WORCESTER The Worcester, Bosch office was recently visited

by Shadow Energy Minister Jonathan Reynolds MP, in an event organised in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce.

Sam Pedley

PROTECTING YOUR BRAND Often a grey area in business, Intellectual Property (IP) are legal rights to an idea, or brand, under which the owner can benefit from the property they have created – such as a trademark, copyright, design right or patent.

The Shadow Minister was taken on a tour of the facilities at the heating company’s headquarters

by Carl Arntzen, Managing Director of Worcester, Bosch Group. He then met several key members of staff to discuss the Labour Party’s commitment to energy policies such as the Green Deal and the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

Members of the Chamber of Commerce then participated in a Q&A session with the MP on the issues of energy in business and their policies ahead of the upcoming elections. www.worcester-bosch.co.uk Carl Arntzen and Jonathan Reynolds MP

IP is often an intangible asset which many businesses (established, new or expanding) do not always recognise or take steps to protect in order to establish and grow their reputation.

Not enough businesses guard their hard-earned brand in what is a fiercely competitive market. Similarly, many fail to realise the statutory monopoly a registered trademark gives – and the right to sue for infringement.

Within the media over the coming months we will be covering what these rights are, closely examining the world of IP and addressing some big issues for businesses to be aware of.

THE ABBEY, MALVERN In the heart of Great Malvern, The Abbey is a historic 4-star hotel with beautiful landscaped gardens and views over the Vale of Evesham.

The hotel’s seven light-filled suites, featuring modern equipment and free WiFi, are perfect for company meetings, large conferences, dinner dances and private celebrations.

Amongst them, the Elgar Suite with its built-in screen, stage, private bar and sprung dance floor is a popular setting for large conferences, dinner dances and receptions for up to 300. With direct access to the hotel’s car park, the suite gives you that bit of extra privacy. Over the years, the Elgar has accommodated balls, birthday parties, dinner dances, fantastic charity events and even racing nights.

mfgsolicitors.com

The hotel’s warm atmosphere and friendly service will invite you to stay longer. With 103 bedrooms, some with excellent views over the Vale of Evesham, free WiFi throughout, a restaurant and cosy lounge bar, The Abbey is your number one choice for exploring Malvern and the surrounding areas.

www.mfgsolicitors.com

www.sarova-abbeyhotel.com

For further information members can contact Sam Pedley at mfg Solicitors through samuel.pedley@

CHAMBER LEGAL ADVICE LINE

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

Website: www.hwchamber.co.uk/legal-advice-line

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July/August 2014

BUSINESSNEWS

WEST MIDLANDS TAX-GURU EXTENDS ROLE IN GOVERNMENT TAX SIMPLIFICATION

L-R: Colin Jackson, Rebecca Addlington, Jamie Baulch, and Mark Foster

Andy Richens, the Technical Tax Director at Britain’s fastest growing accountancy firm, Bishop Fleming - which has an office in Worcester - has agreed to spend more time as an adviser to the Chancellor’s Office of Tax Simplification (OTS).

Having been seconded to the OTS as an adviser on small business taxation issues by Bishop Fleming, Mr Richens has been asked to spend more time with the OTS. Mr Richens will now spend the majority of his time on projects developing recommendations to improve and simplify the country’s tax system, but will continue to provide a consultancy service to Bishop Fleming and its clients.

Andrew Browne, Head of Tax at Bishop Fleming, said: “This development is a huge accolade for our approach to serving the taxation issues for owner-managed businesses, which was recognised by the firm’s national Best Tax Practice award.”

Andy Richens said: “It is the ambition of everyone in my profession to have the opportunity to influence taxation changes, so I welcome this invitation to increase my role with the OTS.” www.bishopfleming.co.uk

ENGLISH MUTUAL SPONSORS FUNDRAISING EVENT English Mutual, part of Sanlam UK, recently announced the major principal sponsorship of a male well-being fundraising event.

were official ambassadors for the event and over 100 members of staff from English Mutual and Sanlam UK pledged to join the 5km run.

Sanlam UK, part of the Sanlam global financial services group, partnered up with Prostate Cancer UK as the principal sponsor of ‘Sanlam’s Go Dad Run’ and is using their adviser and client network to encourage thousands to join.

The three different events, based in London, Birmingham and Cardiff, were designed to get men of all ages to run, walk or crawl 5km and took place during the Father’s Day weekend of the 14th and 15th June.

Through the effective use of its professional network and adviser community, Sanlam hopes to raise funds for prostate cancer sufferers in the UK, as well as raise awareness with their clients and contacts. Across the country, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with a staggering one in eight men suffering from the disease during their lifetime. Details for the 2015 event can be found on the website.

Olympians Colin Jackson, Mark Foster and Jamie Baulch

www.godadrun.co.uk

CHACE CARE HOME CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF ITS NEW WING The Chace Care Home in Malvern held an Open Day to help celebrate the grand opening of their new 12 room wing.

Staff, residents and guests celebrated this special occasion with afternoon tea followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony undertaken by the guests of honour, Carol and Bill Reeley, who founded The Chace in 1983. The Chace is still owned and run by their son, Anthony Reeley, alongside a highly qualified Care Management Team.

Bishop Fleming’s Andy Richens - now working for the Chancellor’s Office of Tax Simplification (OTS).

Managing Director, Anthony Reeley, said: “We are really pleased to be able to offer these beautifully appointed rooms to new residents. It has also been a great opportunity to recognise the hard work of our team here at The Chace, many of whom have been with us for many years and help to provide a loving and caring

Bill and Carol Reeley, founders of The Chace Care Home cut the ribbon to celebrate the opening of the new 12 room wing.

home for our residents, which we are truly proud of.”

Residents and staff will also be helping to choose and plant the new garden areas to enhance the beautiful gardens. www.thechace.com

WORCESTER COMPANY LEADS THE WAY IN 3D BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING The most talked about subject in construction over the last few years is Building Information Modelling or BIM - using intelligent 3D computer models that allow the whole design and construction teams to work collaboratively.

BIM makes the whole construction process more efficient, leading to significant cost savings. The government has decreed that by 2016 all public sector contracts worth over £1m must be carried out using BIM. Over the last 7 years Bury Associates have been providing some of the UK and Europe’s leading architects working on refurbishment projects with Building Information

Models of existing buildings. Using the latest laser scanners that can take up to a million measurements a second, every detail of a building is captured to millimetre accuracy. Back in the office, the laser scan data is precisely computer modelled to create the 3D BIM. With past projects including creating BIMs of Blackpool Tower, Manchester Central Library and the London Dungeon tourist attraction, the company has seen an extraordinary growth in demand for its services over the last 12 months. www.buryassociates.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

013

SKILLS SUPPORT FOR THE WORKFORCE 2013 - 2015 Do you have employees who would benefit from skills development?

Calling all employers!

Do you need support to keep ahead of the pack?

The Marches Skills Provider Group is made up of the more established Colleges and training providers in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Herefordshire.

If you need help to upskill your team make contact to discuss your needs with Claire Wills on 07920 007726

Are you a business with less than 250 employees?

The Marches Skills Provider Group have come together to meet the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership Skills Plan and the project is subsidised by the European Social Fund.

The project is targeted towards employed adults to enhance their skills to become more successful in the labour market, advance career prospects, and reduce the risk of long term unemployment by delivering local training that meets the requirements identified by the Local Enterprise Partnership research.

Examples of up coming courses on offer: = ILM Level 3 Management = Level 2 Customer Service = Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care = Hospitality Services and many more

“In challenging times, it is important that we support employers by helping to develop a skilled workforce which is fit for purpose and fit for the future. The skills Support for the Workforce project is helping to do exactly that.”

Graham Wynn - LEP Chairman

What would you say to free training for your employees?

Too good to be true? It’s not.

The Marches Skills Provider Group have funding to provide free training for employers in Herefordshire and

Ongoing Starts 15th Sept

Riverside Training

Ongoing

Award in Occupational Health & Safety

Award in Awareness of Dementia

carol.davies@hoopleltd.co.uk 01432 383500

Flexible to suit needs

Herefordshire & Ludlow College HGTA

Any route in Health & Social Care or Childcare

Ongoing

Certificate in Principles of End of Life Care

Ongoing

Hospitality Services

Business Administration

Coaching & Mentoring in the Workplace

June, July, Aug

Delivering Effective Customer Service

Hoople

Team Leading Responsibilities

ILM Level 3 Award in Leadership & Management

Shropshire with less than 250 employees. The providers below are offering courses in the following sectors:

Ongoing

Ongoing

reillye@hlc.ac.uk 07870 512684 jackie.morris@hgta.org 01432 377028

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

charlotte@riverside-training.co.uk 01432 359244

For more information please contact Claire Wills on 07920 007726 or email: claire.wills@tcat.ac.uk

ASKTHEEXPERTS

PROFESSIONAL LEGAL ADVICE WITH REAL LIFE UNDERSTANDING GABBS SOLICITORS IN HEREFORD, LEOMINSTER AND HAY ON WYE

MANMINDER CHHOKER

JOHN SHURVINTON

QUESTION

QUESTION

I am in a relationship and considering marriage. I want to protect my business and my home in the event that the marriage is not successful.

Should I obtain a pre-nuptial agreement?

I married three years ago. Unfortunately, things have not worked out and I am thinking about divorce. Luckily, we have no children. However, I am very worried because my husband says he is entitled to half my business, even though I started it up many years ago. Is this right?

ANSWER Pre-nuptial agreements are still not absolutely binding under English law.

However, courts will now give effect to a pre-nuptial agreement, unless there is some reason why it would not be fair to hold the parties to their agreement. To ensure that full weight is given to a pre-nuptial agreement, both parties must enter into it of their own free will, without undue influence or pressure and must be informed of its implications. It is certainly worth you considering a pre-nuptial agreement.

ANSWER

QUESTION

QUESTION

I have been divorced for three years and am now considering re-marriage.

My ex-wife and I did not have any formal financial settlement on divorce, having come to a voluntary agreement. Is it now too late to formalize the agreement with my ex-wife?

My husband is a shareholder in a family run business. It is a limited company and my husband says all of the assets owned by the company will be excluded from our divorce settlement. Is there anything I can do?

ANSWER

Divorce courts can only make orders against assets owned by the parties to the marriage. A company is a separate legal entity and owns its own assets.

It is only in very limited circumstances, such as where there has been a deliberate attempt to evade the law or legal obligations, that the court will “pierce the corporate veil” and make orders against a company’s assets.

However, you could seek a transfer of your husband’s shares into your name or offset the shareholding against other assets.

Ideally, financial settlements should be formalized by way of a court order at the time of divorce. However, there is no time limit on applying for a financial order.

Therefore, you and your ex-wife can still apply for a financial consent order which sets out the terms of the voluntary agreement you reached on divorce. This would bring finality to any financial issues between you and your ex-wife and ensure that neither of you could make any claims against the other in the future.

In a short, childless marriage, the usual starting point is that all assets acquired during the marriage (matrimonial assets) should be divided equally.

Other assets, such as assets which either party may have brought to the marriage, are treated differently. Subject to the other assets being sufficient to meet your husband’s needs, as you owned your business prior to the marriage, you have an argument that you should be able to retain it.

ANSWER

Contact Gabbs Solicitors Family Department on

01432 353481 or email Manminder on mchhoker@gabbs.biz or John on jshurvinton@gabbs.biz www.gabbs.biz

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

015

BUSINESSNEWS

WORCESTER SOLICITORS ANNOUNCE PARTNER PROMOTIONS QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright has promoted three solicitors to Partner, and appointed the founder of their specialist Domestic Abuse Unit as its new head.

Suzanne Oldnall has been appointed Head of the Domestic Abuse Team. Suzanne has over 25 years’ experience in Family Law and specialises in domestic abuse cases, emergency injunctions/non-molestation orders and applications under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.

Other appointments include Richard Green to

Employment Partner, Karen Billington appointed as Wills and Probate Partner and Emma Roberts, who has been promoted to Family Law Partner.

Richard Green joined the firm in 2013 and specialises in contentious and non-contentious Employment Law, representing principally employers. Richard advises and represents clients on all employment disputes, ranging from unfair dismissal to discrimination and equal pay claims.

Karen Billington joined QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright in June 2011 specialising in Estate Administration, Will Drafting, Trust Advice, Care Home

HAINES WATTS WINS ACCOUNTANCY EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR A THIRD YEAR NEPETA CONSULTING HELPS SOCIETY WIN WEBSITE AWARD The Malvern Family History Society website has won the award for the “Best Website for a Small Society” from the Federation of Family History Societies. The website has been completely overhauled in a collaboration between the society and Nepeta Consulting.

Nepeta Consulting provided the new look and a framework which allows the committee to keep the site up to date. They also provided training to the committee members. Catherine Banks of Nepeta Consulting is a member of the society and gave her time free of charge to the project.

The sites were judged on seven basic categories: appearance, usability, content, design, association, innovation bonus and metrics, with sub categories in each of these areas.

“We are delighted to have won the award” said Frank Townsend, Chairman.“We now have a site to be proud of that we can maintain ourselves.” www.mfhs.org.uk / www.nepeta.co.uk

016

The Hereford office of accountancy firm Haines Watts is celebrating success having won Accountancy Firm of the Year – SMEs, at the annual Finance Directors’ Excellence Awards.

The award comes on the back of having won Auditor of the Year for the past two years.

The awards recognise the service providers that support Britain’s finance community using the results of an annual survey, in which Finance Directors and financial decision-makers record their opinion.

Karen McLellan, Managing Director at Haines Watts in Hereford, said: “This type of award really matters to us because it’s voted for by business people and not by an academic panel of experts. It’s fantastic that we are the first firm ever to have won an award in three consecutive years. We are proud of all our staff, who do an outstanding job for our clients day to day and who have contributed towards us winning this award.” www.hwca.com

Funding, Equity Release, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection work.

Emma Roberts joined the firm as a Solicitor in February 2010. She is a member of the Children’s Panel and is able to assist families once social services have become involved. Emma is certified by Resolution as a specialist family lawyer in the areas of private children law and domestic abuse. www.qualitysolicitors.com/parkinsonwright

L-R John Hollingshead, General Sales Manager, Molly Weaver and Simon Hughes, Sales Executive.

BENGRY MOTORS TO SUPPORT NATIONAL WOMEN’S CYCLE RACE TEAM Local Mazda dealer, Bengry Motors, is providing a Mazda6 Tourer to national cycling team Epic Cycle Scott Contessa Women’s Race Team.

The Mazda6 Tourer, supplied by Leominster based Bengry Motors, will be used as a team support vehicle throughout the road racing season, with the last race taking place on 28 September 2014. The Mazda6 Tourer, which features the Japanese marque’s innovative SKYACTIV technology, will support the women by trailing team members at each race and carrying essential equipment.

Viv Melia, Managing Director, Bengry Motors said: “We’re delighted to be supporting this amazing team as they embark on what promises to be a great season.

We hope that the Mazda6 Tourer will prove invaluable to these incredible women, as they travel around the country to compete in this extremely challenging sport.

With the rear seats folded, the Mazda6 Tourer boasts 1648-litres of storage space, so we’re certain it will easily swallow the team’s equipment!” www.bengrymotors.co.uk July/August 2014

BUSINESSNEWS

Partners of the newly-merged GJS Dillon (left to right) Bill Fellows, John Dillon and Philip Jones.

NCD HELP ENTREPRENEURS INTO RETAIL New Channel Developments are a niche sales development agency who specialise in getting SMEs’ products into retail sales channels – including high street stores, catalogues, online e-tailers and TV shopping, to name but a few!

GJS DILLON GROWS MARKET COVERAGE WITH MERGER Leading Midland independent property consultancy GJS Dillon has expanded its geographical, valuation and building surveying operations following a merger with respected chartered surveying firm JWL Fellows.

offices in Worcester and Bromsgrove. Bill Fellows, who founded JWL Fellows, is now a Partner at GJS Dillon.

Stourport-based JWL Fellows, established in 1986, has a client base covering North Worcestershire, the Black Country and parts of Birmingham, as well as clients in Scotland, the south west and Northern Ireland.

The merger means that GJS Dillon can offer clients a comprehensive valuation, secured valuation (now being on the panel of most major commercial lenders) and building surveying services in-house, in addition to its existing commercial property, acquisition consultancy and property management capabilities.

Now the firm has merged with GJS Dillon, which has

www.gjsdillon.co.uk

THA RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION The Hereford Academy (THA) has received national recognition for the value it adds to students’ achievements at GCSE. A recent in-depth analysis of official Department for Education data on all state-funded schools in England

by Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT), the national schools membership organisation for improvement and collaboration, identified The Hereford Academy’s success.

Sue Williamson, Chief Executive of SSAR, said: “The Hereford Academy should be congratulated for their exceptional achievement. They have proved themselves to be leading the field in improving GCSE outcomes for their students. There is so much good practice that this school could share, and I hope many schools will join us at the celebration ceremony for the chance to network and share the strategies with award-winning schools.”

Recently, they have done some work with an American entrepreneur who has developed a patented innovative cat litter tray. To start with, they found him a Chinese manufacturer, then conducted all of the sales approaches to various pet retailers, catalogues and TV shopping channels - finding success with both Scott’s of Stow catalogue and QVC. With two excellent sales opportunities on the table, the client really had no choice but to ‘pull the trigger’ and ship over a 40’ container!

We also found him a fulfilment house based in Hereford (Pack-IT) - which doubles as a social enterprise for people with disabilities.

Currently live with Scotts of Stow and looking forward to QVC any day!

www.newcd.co.uk

ALLTEKO PRESENTED WITH THEIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS MANUALS FOR IS0 9001 CERTIFICTATION On Monday 31 March, the Allteko team were presented with their Quality Management System Manuals, with ISO 9001:2008 Certification to follow in the next two weeks. Allteko were further audited

by Ian Ormerod, certified Lead Auditor for QAS International, and passed the first audit with no minor or major non-conformances corresponding to their Quality Manuals and Policy.

At Allteko, we are really happy to be gaining our manuals and ISO certification so smoothly; and we are very excited to receive our official certification in the next two weeks and anticipate this will help achieve a higher volume of business. Special thanks to our newly appointed Quality Representative George Hudson for his voluminous work into this project; he was instrumental in ensuring the quality management system was promptly incorporated into our procedures.

Front (L-R): Ian Ormerod, (Certified Lead Auditor, QAS International), David Fielding ( Allteko MD), George Hudson ( Business Development Manager, Allteko) Back (L-R): Justin Lee, Wendy Fielding, Sarah Fielding, Rebecca Lee

www.allteko.com

www.theherefordacademy.org.uk Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

017

BUSINESSNEWS

TECH TIPS: COMPUTER PASSWORD AND SECURITY RISK Computer specialists Logiplex Solutions warn of two urgent issues that may put the security of your computer at risk.

Heartbleed is a vulnerability in the security used by many internet servers. It potentially allows a malicious individual to listen in to private information being sent over the web. This could potentially include passwords, payment details and other personal information.

The advice is to change your passwords.

As a general rule, passwords need to be unique to each website and somewhat complex (different character types, non-dictionary words, etc). If this makes keeping track of your passwords difficult there are services that can aid you in creating and managing passwords. These methods are preferable to asking your web browser to remember your password.

Windows XP and Office 2003 support has been ended by Microsoft making these more vulnerable to attack.

WORCESTER CITY 10K & RUN BIKE RUN ....coming to the City on 21st September 21st!!

Join thousands of others, set a challenge for your employees and run or cycle for charity, for better health, getting fit, for motivation and for lots of fun!!

Starting & finishing at Worcester Racecourse, the 10K route takes in the major landmarks of the city including the riverside, the majestic cathedral and County Cricket Ground.

The Run Bike Run can be entered individually or as teams of three, which is perfect for bringing friends and colleagues together to complete the 50KM challenge: 10KM Run through the city, 35KM Cycle through picturesque Worcestershire and Malvern Hills and 5KM Run around the racecourse.

To enter and for full details go to worcestercityrun.com

www.logiplex.co.uk

HARRIS LAMB OVERSEES NEW VAX BUILDING IN DROITWICH Harris Lamb is playing a key part in the development of a design and build premises of 231,000 square feet in Droitwich on behalf of Vax. The purpose built premises at Stonebridge Cross will centralise Vax’s warehousing operation, safeguarding jobs and allowing for further job creation.

The building will occupy a floor space of 231,000 sq ft, making it the largest new build in Worcestershire in the last five years, and represents a massive investment in an economy where design 018

and build opportunities in the region had pretty much ground to a halt.

The move has been welcomed by district councillors, who are delighted to see such significant investment in Droitwich, as well as by MP Peter Luff, who said that it was encouraging to see a large firm with origins in Droitwich expand in the town, making more jobs likely.

The building is expected to be completed

by Autumn 2014. www.harrislamb.com July/August 2014

INTERNATIONALTRADE

SUPPORTING SMES IN THE WEST MIDLANDS TO INCREASE SALES AND PROFITS THROUGH EXPORT

Experienced exporters understand the amount of investment needed to increase business through overseas activities. SMEs can now receive financial support from £1,000 up to £30,000 to fund export activities along, with specialist business support.

ELIGIBLE WEST MIDLANDS SMES CAN BENEFIT FROM: n Flexible Funding/Finance – SME match contribution required n European Regional Development Funded

n Grant expenditure can be used for a wide range of international activity such as; exhibition activity, exploratory market visit, export consultancy, international marketing, internationalising websites, IPR development (e.g. international patents and trademarks etc), language & cultural awareness development, market information/research, overseas business set up/running costs, overseas seminars/ workshops, product testing/standards.

n An assigned Account Manager to fully assist the grant funding process n Introduction to a UK Trade & Investment International Trade Adviser To book an appointment to see one of our Advisers, call us on 02476 236 406 or email info@wmbusinessexport.co.uk For further information visit our website: www.wmbusinessexport.co.uk

UKTI HELPS KEYNETIX BRANCH OUT INTO NEW MARKETS UK Trade & Investment’s (UKTI) support and guidance helped Keynetix survive the economic downturn by finding new customers in Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

Keynetix was founded in 2000 based in Redditch. Its software has been used in some of the UK’s largest projects, including London’s Crossrail and London’s 2012 Olympic Park.

In 2009, the global economic slowdown began to affect the UK construction market, so the company decided to look abroad for new customers. Roger Chandler, Founder and Director of Keynetix met with an International Trade Adviser (ITA) to learn more about the help available in mid-2010 and then signed up for Passport to Export, the UKTI programme that helps businesses to prepare for international markets.

Thanks to this intense training and a UKTI grant for travel expenses, Keynetix made its first market visit to Australia and New Zealand in 2011, meeting with several potential agents, one of whom it appointed after its return to the UK in autumn 2011. Since then,

the agent has made sales to several of the largest geotechnical consultants in the country.

Having completed Passport to Export, Keynetix then joined Gateway to Global Growth, working with UKTI to grow its business in Australia and narrow down the attributes it was looking for in a potential local agent. Then, in late 2012, a contact Roger had met during his initial visit to Australia offered to take on the role. He was quickly appointed and as a result the company now expects to close several large orders in the coming months.

Meanwhile, over the last year UKTI has continued to provide financial support to Keynetix. In mid-2013, the company received UKTI funding for a market visit to Canada where it made two sales, with several more in the pipeline. Also in 2013, Keynetix attended the International Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering in Paris, thanks to funding from UKTI’s Trade Access Programme (TAP).

Through our Passport to Export programme we offer new and inexperienced exporters:

n Free capability assessments n Support in visiting potential markets n Mentoring from a local export professional n Free action plans n Customised and subsidised training n Ongoing support once you’re up and running www.keynetix.com

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

019

INTERNATIONALTRADE

TRAINING COURSES WORCESTER 2014 Course Title

Date

Trainer

The Exporter’s Guide to International Payments

Tuesday 9 September 2014

Mark Hayward - M J Hayward Assoc Ltd

International Trade Compliance Management

Wednesday 10 September 2014 Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

Advanced Export Documentation

Thursday 11 September 2014

Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

Customs Compliance

Thursday 18 September 2014

Sandra Strong - Strong & Herd

Global Marketing and the Importance of Understanding Language & Culture

Tuesday 23 September 2014 HALF DAY

Keith Jones - Link Me 2 Export

Basics of Export Documentation

Wednesday 24 September 2014 Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

Top Ten Tips for VAT on Exports

Thursday 25 September 2014

Wendy Andrews - Bishop Fleming

Planning your attendance at an International Congress or Exhibition

Wednesday 1 October 2014

Keith Jones - Link Me 2 Export

Letters of Credit

Tuesday 7 October 2014

Mark Hayward - M J Hayward Assoc Ltd

Incoterms

Wednesday 8 October 2014

Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

Direct Shipping

Thursday 16 October 2014

Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

Intrastat & EU

Thursday 23 October 2014

Gavin Inglis - Strong & Herd

Advanced Guide to Letters of Credit and Finance

Tuesday 28 October 2014

Mark Hayward - M J Hayward Assoc Ltd

Export Licensing

Tuesday 11 November 2014

Sandra Strong - Strong & Herd

Basics of Import Procedures

Wednesday 12 November 2014 Sandra Strong - Strong & Herd

Organising an International Distributor Meeting

18 November 2014 HALF DAY

Keith Jones - Link Me 2 Export

Basics of Export Documentation

Tuesday 9 December 2014

Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

The Bribery Act

Thursday 8 January 2015

Keith Jones - Link Me 2 Export

What’s new – Changes in International Trade

Tuesday 20 January 2015

Sandra Strong - Strong & Herd

Advanced Import Procedures

Wednesday 4 February 2015

Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

Tariff Classification

Thursday 5 February 2015

Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

Basics of Export Documentation

Thursday 19 March 2015

Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

Advanced Export Documentation

Tuesday 24 March 2015

Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

IPR (Inward Process Relief)

Wednesday 25 March 2015

Anthony Griffiths - Strong & Herd

HERBFARMACY IMPACT OF UKTI SUPPORT Herbfarmacy is an organic skincare business based in Eardisley, Herefordshire, which sells products made from herbs grown and processed on the company farm.

The company first came into contact with UKTI in 2012 and, in response to a slow UK market, they looked to expand overseas, concentrating on building exports. Previous experience selling reactively to a large customer in Hong Kong encouraged Herbfarmacy to target other countries in the Far East, where their products and packaging had a particular appeal.

Herbfarmacy signed up to UKTI’s Passport to Export programme and attended a trade mission to Tokyo. With a product in Japan under another label already doing well, using UKTI services helped the company to internationalise their website, then work with a Japanese distributor to launch new products in 8 outlets. Receiving help and advice from an International Trade Adviser and a network of UKTI contacts, including at the Japanese embassy, Herbfarmacy plans to continue to develop sales in Japan.

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is the Government Department that helps UK companies to succeed in the global economy. Providing businesses of all sizes with a range of support and advice, UKTI’s experienced International Trade Advisers offer mentoring and assistance in the development of an international trade strategy, finding new customers and visiting potential markets abroad. www.herbfarmacy.co.uk

To Book Contact: Alison Avery Tel: 0845 641 1507 Email: Alisiona@hwchamber.co.uk

EXPORT DOCUMENTATION

Chamber Export Documentation Authentication prices frozen for 2014!

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

UKTI Herefordshire & Worcestershire 020

July/August 2014

West Midlands

INTERNATIONALTRADE

Serbia Market Visit:

Serbia Market Visit:

3-7 November 2014

3-7 November 2014

UK Trade Investment (UKTI)(UKTI) is What areare thethe benefits UK&Trade & Investment is What benefitsofof delighted to announce an upcoming delighted to announce an upcoming joining a UKTI market visit? joining a UKTI market visit? market market visit to visit Serbia, to help to Serbia, to help companies in railways and rail • access to tailored in-depth market companies in railways and rail • access to tailored in-depth market in theMidlands West Midlands securitysecurity in the West to to research to identify contacts research to identify contacts take advantage of opportunities appropriate to your business.This This take advantage of opportunities to to appropriate to your business. in a country making significant will provide will provide with itineraryofof trade intrade a country making significant youyou with anan itinerary investment into improving its national pre-arranged pre-arranged business appointments investment into improving its national business appointments infrastructure. and qualified contacts with interest infrastructure. and qualified contacts with ananinterest in your products/services* A maximum of 20 companies can join in your products/services* A maximum of 20 companies can join this hosted trip – register your interest as • benefit from the support of this hosted registertoyour interest from the International support of Trade soontrip as –possible discuss your as plans • benefit experienced soon as with possible to discuss your plans an International Trade Adviser (ITA) experienced International Trade Advisers throughout your visit with an International Trade Adviser (ITA) Advisers throughout your visit • open doors and boost credibility What are the business • openbydoors credibility being and part boost of a British Government opportunities in Serbia? associated visit by being part of a British Government Could your business become one of the associated visit • a briefing on the Serbian market and hundreds of British companies Could your business become one of enjoying the opportunities in the Railway sector • a briefing on the Serbian market and success in Serbia? hundreds of British companies enjoying and Security sector opportunities in the Railway sector success•inimprovement Serbia? of Safety Management and sector • aSecurity briefing on the Serbian economic System & political situation (by an embassy

What are the business opportunities in Serbia?

• improvement of Safety Management • a briefing on the Serbian economic member) • rehabilitation of selected railway routes System & political situation (by an embassy • the organisation of presentations • privatisation of a freight forwarding member) • rehabilitation of selected railway routes company through PPP arrangement

• privatisation of a freight (expected in 2015)forwarding company through PPP arrangement • financing of the selected feasibility (expected in 2015) studies (estimated value :

EUR 100,000-200,000) • financing of the selected feasibility studies (estimated value : • acquisition of a selected route/ EUR 100,000-200,000) obtaining the operation license in the railway freight transport sector

by participating British companies

• the organisation of presentations (organised either at the British Ambassador’s residence or in the by participating British companies relevanteither ministries – Ministry (organised at the British of Interior / Ministry of residence Transport) or in the Ambassador’s relevant ministries – Ministry of Interior • a networking reception / Ministry of Transport) • UKTI support before, during and after

your visit toreception ensure the trip is a success • a networking

• acquisition of a selected route/ and you have a clear understanding of • creation of a shareholding • UKTIthe support before, during obtaining the operation license incompany the next steps you need to and take after between a British sector company and your visit to ensure the trip is a success railway freight transport *available as a part of UKTI’s Overseas of Serbian Government and you have clear understanding Market Introduction Service (OMIS) • creation of a shareholding company the next steps you need to take between a British company and *available as part of UKTI’s Overseas Serbian Government Market Introduction Service (OMIS) Published [June 2014]

by UK Trade & Investment West Midlands © West Midlands Chambers of Commerce LLP

Published [June 2014]

by UK Trade & Investment West Midlands © West Midlands Chambers of Commerce LLP

Any enquiries regarding this document should be emailed to us at enquiries@uktiwm.co.uk or you can call: +44 (0) 345 222 0159

Any enquiries regarding this document should be emailed to us at enquiries@uktiwm.co.uk or you can call: +44 (0) 345 222 0159

Preparation veryimportant important Preparation isisvery to to getget maximum benefitout outofof this visit, maximum benefit this visit, andand an an International TradeAdviser Adviser support International Trade willwill support you theprocess process help you throughout throughout the to to help youyou to to identify and objectives. identify andmeet meetyour yourown own objectives.

All West West Midlands areare invited All Midlandscompanies companies invited to join join the funding to the mission, mission,and andflexible flexible funding may be onon eligibility – – may be available availabledependent dependent eligibility please speak to a local International Trade please speak to a local International Trade Adviser for guidance.

Adviser for guidance.

Cost of participation Cost of participation

• each delegate will be required to

• each delegate be required to and reserve and paywill for their own travel reserve and paythroughout for their own travel and accommodation the duration of their visit. Accommodation accommodation throughoutand theflight duration recommendations are available from of their visit. Accommodation and the flight British Deputy High Commission recommendations are available from the Deputy High Commission • British UKTI Market Visit Support (MVS) financial assistance of £400 may be

• UKTI Market Visit Support (MVS) available for eligible companies. To check financial assistance of £400 may be your eligibility please contact us or speak available forInternational eligible companies.

To check to your local Trade your eligibility Adviser (ITA) please contact us or speak to your local International Trade Adviser (ITA) and further Registration

information

Registration and further For further information or to register your information interest in joining this trade mission please visit:further www.uktiserbia.eventbrite.co.uk For information or to register your interest in joining this trade mission please Or contact: visit: Paul www.uktiserbia.eventbrite.co.uk Thompson

Or contact: E: p.thompson@uktiwm.co.uk

T: 0845 641 1510 or 07730 982726 Paul Thompson Please note there are approximately 20 E: p.thompson@uktiwm.co.uk places available. The closing date for T: 0845 641is1510 982726 applications Fridayor 1907730 September 2014.

Please note there are approximately 20 places available. The closing date for applications is Friday 19 September 2014.

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Did you know ..

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If you are a small to medium sized business employing less than 250 ● employees and interested in recruiting your first apprentice, you If you are a small to medium sized could be eligible to receive a £1500 business employing less than 250 grant.

● you know ..

Did

Did Did youyou know .. .. know

Did youandknow .. in reemployees interested Did you know ..Rotec you Engineering Academy, in partnership with South Worcestershire College, can offer your cruiting your first apprentice, If you are a small to medium sized organisation support in finding the right individual, and then train them in the skills that will make the If you are a small to medium sized apprentice a value asset, one which will stay with you and strongly contribute to your success. could eligible to receive a £1500 Ifbusiness youbeare a small to medium sized employing less than 250 | Fabrication | CNC Engineering | Tool making | Mechanical Design | Manufacturing business than 250 grant.

If youemploying areemploying a small less toEngineering medium sized business less than 250 employees and interested in re-

business employing less in than 250 employees and interested reemployees and interested reRotec Engineering Academy, in partnershipin with South Worcestershire College, can offer your cruiting your first apprentice, you organisation support in finding the right individual, and then train them in the skills that will make the employees and interested in recruiting your first apprentice, you cruiting your first apprentice, apprentice a be valueeligible asset, one which will stay with you and strongly contribute to your success. could to receive ayou £1500 cruiting your first apprentice, you could be eligible to receive a £1500 Engineering | Manufacturing | Fabrication |a CNC Engineering | Tool making | Mechanical Design could be eligible to receive £1500 grant.

South Worcestershire College could be eligible to receive a £1500 grant.grant. grant.

Contact the

Rotec Engineering Academy, in partnership withLearning South Team Worcestershire College, offer your Work Based on (01386) 712690 or emailcan p.howard@rotec-ltd.com organisation supportAcademy, in finding in thepartnership right individual, thenWorcestershire train them in theCollege, skills thatcan willoffer make your the Rotec Engineering withand South apprentice a support value asset, oneinwhich will stay with you and strongly contribute to your success.

Rotec organisation Engineering Academy, partnership with South Worcestershire College, can offer in finding the right individual, and then train them in the skills that make the your Rotec Engineering Academy, in partnership with South Worcestershire College, canwill offer your apprentice a value asset, one which will stay with you and strongly contribute to your success. organisation support in finding the right individual, and then train them in the skills that will make the organisation support in finding the right individual, and then train them in the skills that will make the Engineering | Manufacturing | Fabrication | CNC Engineering | Tool making | Mechanical Design apprentice a value asset, one which will stay with you and strongly contribute to your success. apprentice aContact value asset, one which will stay with you and strongly contribute to your success.

Engineering | Fabrication | CNC Engineering | Tool making | Mechanical Design the| Manufacturing South Worcestershire College

Engineering | Manufacturing | Fabrication| |CNC CNC Engineering Engineering | Tool making | Mechanical DesignDesign Engineering | Manufacturing | Fabrication | Tool making | Mechanical Work Based Learning Team on (01386) 712690 or

email p.howard@rotec-ltd.com

South Worcestershire College Contact the South Worcestershire College Contact the South Worcestershire College Work Based Learning Team on (01386) 712690 or email p.howard@rotec-ltd.com WorkWorcestershire Based Learning College Team on (01386) 712690 or email p.howard@rotec-ltd.com Contact the South Work Based Learning Team on (01386) 712690 or email p.howard@rotec-ltd.com Contact the

Work Based Learning Team on (01386) 712690 or

email p.howard@rotec-ltd.com

n

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362789 www.wildwoodrooms.co.uk Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Hospitality at Worcester Racecourse!

Experience a unique day at the races with an exciting hospitality package at Worcester Racecourse. Offering stunning racecourse views and mouthwatering menus, the hospitality packages available at the home of summer jumps racing provide a glorious day at the races to share with friends, family, colleagues or clients.

Hospitality at the Racecourse includes the Private Suite Package, Marquee Package and Severn Restaurant Package, all available for the 22 fixtures from May to October.

For all enquiries and bookings please call the racecourse team on 01905 25364 or visit the website, www.worcester-racecourse.co.uk 023

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

FREE TRAINING FOR YOUR BUSINESS – NO STRINGS ATTACHED! The Unique Skills People, the business-trainingarm of North East Worcestershire College, are pleased to be able to up-skill your workforce by providing FREE training opportunities for small to medium enterprises in Bromsgrove and Redditch.

Plus, free courses from the BCS (British Computer Society): n BCS Word Processing Level 1 (GLH 20 Hours) n BCS Spreadsheets Level 1 (GLH 20 Hours) n BCS Databases Level 1 (GLH 20 Hours) n BCS Powerpoint Level 1 (GLH 20 Hours) n BCS Online Basics at Entry 3 (GLH 20 Hours) n BCS Word Level 2 (GLH 30 Hours)

This free training opportunity is available to your employees who are over the age of 19.

All of the free training is funded by the European Social Fund meaning that registration, resources, teaching and certification costs are met.

The following qualifications are on offer: n Emergency First Aid Level 2 n Health & Safety in the Workplace Level 2 n Food Safety in Catering Level 2

024

n BCS Spreadsheets Level 2 (GLH 30 Hours) n BCS Powerpoint Level 2 (GLH 30 Hours) Currently the IT courses are held at Osprey House in Redditch on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays or Fridays 9am - 3pm. USP are able to fit your staff in at a time to suit. Evening classes will be made available providing there are sufficient numbers, and likewise USP will even consider onsite training at your company for viable group sizes.

For further information, speak to Francesca Gibbs by e-mailing fgibbs@ne-worcs.ac.uk or calling 01527 572931/07781 379251.

As well as these free training courses, USP offer a wide range of standard, customised and bespoke courses at all levels. The courses are designed and delivered to individuals who want to improve their own skills and for companies who want to enhance their employees’ knowledge.

NEW College, USP’s parent company, have been providing a wide range of training solutions for large numbers of local SMEs and national employers for many years.

USP has a successful track record in providing innovative and creative training solutions; meeting the needs of employers from a range of different market sectors. The company is able to utilise a large network of trainers and business professionals who have up to date commercial awareness, business acumen and experience within their chosen field.

Contact a member USP’s dedicated sales team on 01527 548871 or email kskinner@ne-worcs.ac.uk who will be pleased to discuss your requirements, answer your questions and arrange a free consultation to discuss any immediate or future training needs.

July/August 2014

A REFINED RECRUITMENT SOLUTION HE A MA VYW EST EIG RO HT

EMERGING TALENT

Specialists in attracting and placing talented Permanent, Temporary Interim and Contract team members for Commercial, Industrial, IT & Technical, Engineering and Executive positions.

We can meet the evolving needs of your business, helping you recruit the right personalities for your talent pond.

Contact Hewett on 01562 69090 or 01905 613413 louise@h louise@hewett-recruitment.co.uk www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

HUN G TO G RY ROW

CHAMBERTRAINING

CAN’T SEE WHAT YOUR AFTER? TRY SOMETHING BESPOKE SPECIAL OFFER: 30% DISCOUNT OFF YOUR FIRST DAYS BESPOKE TRAINING FOR MEMBERS* The Chamber of Commerce has a long history of providing relevant business training, coaching and support for its members and the wider business community. Many of our current clients opt to use our Bespoke Training Services. A bespoke training course can be tailored or wholly customised to meet your organisations needs.

HOW IT CAN SAVE YOU MONEY - Our standard bespoke daily rate for Chamber Members is £810+VAT. Up to 12 attendees can attend any course, saving you over £80 per delegate.

WHAT WE CAN DELIVER - Any of our public training courses can be delivered as a bespoke day. Our trainers will work with you to tailor the course content and delivery style to your specification. Don’t worry if you can’t see the course you want in our current training calendar, we have a team of trainers who can work with you to devise the right course for your business.

YOUR PLACE OR OURS? – With a number of spacious well-equipped rooms, ample free parking and free refreshments throughout the day, the Chamber facilities are a popular solution. Alternatively, you can hold the training at your own premises.

THE BENEFITS - People are your most valuable asset and development of their skills is essential to your business. Attendees will leave with the ability, confidence and motivation to be more productive in the work environment.

HOW IT WORKS - An enquiry can be submitted by emailing training@hwchamber.co.uk or calling 0845 641 1641. After a discussion has been had about your requirements, you will receive a proposal via email. If you want to take the training forward, we will organise a date to suit your business needs.

RECRUITMENT SELECTION & HR SUPPORT Effective recruitment and selection is the first vital step in creating a winning team. Our dedicated team of HR Professionals can support your business with all aspects of HR support including recruitment, selection and

interviewing. The initial consultation is FREE with no obligation.

PSYCHOMETRIC TESTING Many employers are now using psychometric assessments to measure the capabilities of applicants, compare the most able candidates, and find the best match between employer and employee. Employers love psychometric assessments because they measure personality and ability and help screen job applicants.

Chamber training is able to offer a full Psychometric Testing service and our qualified consultants are able to administer, score, interpret and feedback results.

ROOM HIRE If you want to deliver your own training, our facilities offer the perfect environment to do so from. Conference rooms at Severn House are spacious and well equipped.

Situated 5 minutes away from Junction 6 off the M5, they are suitable for meetings, away days, your training sessions or even just some thinking space. Members receive a discount on all Conference rooms. *training must be booked and paid for before 31st August 2014.

Bespoke Training Courses Courses take place at Severn House, Worcester and start at 9.30 am.

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 026

July/August 2014

CHAMBERBUSINESSTRAINING

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 to October 2014 Colour & Grey

JULY COURSES Search Engine Optimisation Wednesday 2 July £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members Emergency First Aid at Work Thursday 3 July £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members Successful Telesales Tuesday 8 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members Managing Absence and Performance Issues Wednesday 9 July £180+VAT Members / £210+VAT Non Members Getting to Grips with Social Media Thurday 10th July £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members Intermediate Microsoft Excel Friday 11 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members Internal Quality Auditor Training Tuesday 15 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

SEPTEMBER COURSES

OCTOBER COURSES

Introduction to Microsoft Excel & White FridayColour 5 Spetember £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Social Media Strategy Wednesday 1 October £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members

Managing Appraisals in the Team Tuesday 9 September £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Intermediate Microsoft Excel Friday 3 October £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Assertiveness and Confidence at Work Tuesday 16 September £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Managing People in the Team Tuesday 7 October £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Managing Equality, Bullying and Harassment Wednesday 17 September £180+VAT Members / £210+VAT Non Members

Employment Law Legislation Update Wednesday 8 October £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Writing Effective Marketing Copy Thursday 25 September £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members

IOSH Managing Safely Tuesday 14-17 October £495+VAT Members / £595+VAT Non Members

PowerPoint for Presentations Friday 26 September £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Professional Telephone Techniques Tuesday 21 October £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Finance Skills for Non Finance Managers Wednesday 16 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

027

BIGINTERVIEW

COMPANY DRIVEN BY CONCERNS OVER ‘SLOW RESPONSE’ TO FLOODING Frank Kelly’s interest in flood defences was fostered during many years working in the construction industry, a time which saw him increasingly concerned at the way the UK handles torrential downpours.

Today, he uses that knowledge as part of his work running UK Flood Barriers, the Droitwich company that he founded in 2007 and which has found its products increasingly in demand.

At the heart of his work is a belief that the UK has been too slow in responding to the increasingly frequent downpours that bring flooding chaos to so many communities.

Frank, who began his career in road building and other construction work, formed his company initially to design flood defence products such as valve systems for houses and introduced a BSI kite mark testing facility for such products.

He said: “I had watched serious floods like the ones in 2004 and felt that there was a gap in the provision which needed innovative solutions. I felt that prevention was being totally ignored.

“The extent of domestic flood protection was to bring out the sandbags, so I formed a company to design products which could help keep floodwaters out of the home.

“It was not as if we had not been warned about the potential for flooding; the Thames Barrier was installed in the eighties and we have seen its use growing steadily each decade, for example.

“I had built houses for a while and during that time had started thinking ‘hang on, these properties are at risk but rather than reacting after the flood we should be installing products during construction which can keep the water out.’ I believed that much more needed to be done on prevention.”

The new company’s approach proved such a success that in the past seven years, it has also moved on to larger community-wide flood defence systems.

In addition to working on houses, it works on commercial developments such as health centres and power plants across the UK, much of it with local authorities and utilities providers, as well as increasingly working abroad; one recent project was in Malaysia, another prospective one is a two mile barrier in Long Island, New York.

Today, the company employs 27 people, including technicians and designers, and Frank said: “The key to our success is our innovative approach. Our reputation is growing to the point where we are now seen as the market leader, not only as a manufacturer, but as a source of information and education.

028

“Every project is different, every property, every community has different needs and you have to approach each one with that in mind.

“You also have to take a holistic view, recognising that there may not just be one solution, there may be a combination of them.

“I use my knowledge of the construction industry all the time; it gives me an insight into some of the challenges.

“There is, however, still a frustration that the problem is not being taken seriously enough in some quarters.

“During bad weather, we can get ‘once in a hundred years’ events every few days. Flash floods are becoming a big issue and we have to address it. We have to prepare better for flooding.

“As a company, we talk regularly to the insurance and construction companies, arguing that flood defence systems should be considered in the same way as fire alarms.

“These days, you are more likely to flood in the UK than have a house fire and you would not dream of building a house without smoke alarms, so why would you have one without flood defence systems?

“We also argue that all houses in vulnerable areas should be fitted with pumping systems. ”Another of our concerns is that we can do more to handle the rain when it falls; for instance, one of the problems is sewage overflowing when the system cannot cope.

We have to look at ways of ensuring that that does not happen.”

Not surprisingly given the heavy rains of the past few years, the company’s workload has increased and that accelerated after Prime Minister David Cameron announced in February this year a new scheme to provide grants of up to £5000 to home and business owners that have been flooded following a winter of major incidents.

The grant is being provided to fund additional flood resilience or resistance measures for homes and businesses that have been flooded since 1st December 2013.

Whilst the Prime Minister’s announcement will doubtless mean additional workload for UK Flood Barriers and other flood defence companies, Frank is urging caution when both selecting products and installers.

He said: “When protecting their property, homeowners need to be confident they are in safe hands. Opting for BSI kite marked products installed by certified flood professionals is a good place to start.

“However, the fact remains that we all have to do more to prevent the damage caused by flooding and educate people about the risks and the solutions available.” www.floodbarriers.co.uk

July/August 2014

BIGINTERVIEW

“Every project is different, every property, every community has different needs and you have to approach each one with that in mind.

FRANK KELLY CEO, UK Flood Barriers Ltd

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

029

COVERFEATURE

CONFIDENCE DRIVING REVIVAL OF CONSTRUCTION SECTOR The construction sector needs confidence in order to thrive, which is why the opening of the new £90m shopping centre in Hereford is so welcome.

Developer Stanhope has invested in opening 18 stores in the Old Market development, including a number of well known high street names, plus restaurants and a cinema.

Among those supporting the development is the steering group behind the proposed Business Improvement District (BID), which was recently unveiled.

It was set up by a group of like-minded businesses in Hereford, who took out a loan from the Department for Communities and Local Government to see if a BID can be established.

A BID is a legal entity set up and run by businesses in a specific geographic area, and there are now more than 170 of them in towns, city centres and industrial parks across England.

The team behind this one hope that fostering confidence can have a beneficial knock-on effect on other sectors in the area, by creating the right conditions for new projects.

Chair John Jones, Managing Partner of Philip Morris and Son, said: “The idea came about because there was a void in Hereford city, with no form of city centre partnership.

“We took on board the recommendations of the Portas Report and we are asking businesses what they think needs doing, which includes better marketing and improved signage. We are also looking at the idea of pop-up shops “We will not have a lot of money but you can achieve a lot with small amounts.

Peter Martin, Group Director Property Sanctuary

“It is not a case of being a rival to the Old Market. They have been very supportive. They know that eighteen shops does not make a whole day’s shopping experience and 030

that we have more than three hundred, so we are working together to create the right environment for shoppers.”

July/August 2014

COVERFEATURE The third sector on the Park is the University’s Learning and Research Campus, which will be situated at the rear of the site, beyond the Health/Wellbeing and the Enterprise/ Technology zones. Development of the Learning Campus is more of a long term venture, which will only begin after all other development on the site is complete.

Shane Tustin-Rose, 23, from Droitwich learning new bricklaying skills at college

Sanctuary sees University Park as important for its development and Sanctuary Grove, at Bromyard Road, Worcester, is one of its major projects.

When the £22m project is completed in Spring 2015, it will be home to a 60-bed care home, a 60-bed extra care facility, 40 close care units (32 apartments, 8 bungalows) and facilities including restaurant, café, beauty salon and staff offices.

The company is using the site to run a skills academy in partnership with contractor Stepnell Ltd, Jobcentre Plus and Worcester College, and will employ a minimum of six new apprenticeships.

Group Director of Property Peter Martin said: “Creating employment opportunities is a key priority for Sanctuary, which is why we encourage all our development partners to recruit local people and establish apprenticeships on our sites.

When BIDs are set up a steering group carries out extensive consultation with businesses then publishes a business plan. Each eligible business in the area described in the plan gets a postal vote to say whether it is for or against setting up a BID, and the Hereford poll will take place in September.

Another major project which has been offering the construction sector plenty of cause for optimism is University Park in Worcester. Situated on Bromyard Road, University Park, a University of Worcester enterprise, has outline planning permission for a mixed variety of developments.

Divided into three zones, the most advanced development currently is the Health and Wellbeing sector. The first development on this part of the site provides a new home for the St John’s House Surgery,

previously located in the centre of St Johns, which opened in March this year.

Taking up most of the remainder of the Health and Wellbeing zone is a Care Home and Extra Care Facility for Sanctuary Group. Designed by Stepnell Ltd under a Design & Build arrangement with Sanctuary Group, construction is already under way and completion is expected in March 2015.

The second zone at University Park is the Enterprise and Technology area, which is being developed by the University of Worcester in conjunction with its joint venture partner Wrenbridge LLP. Although the programme for development is more medium term and will take place after the Health zone is complete, discussions with several potential clients keen to relocate their business to University Park are already taking place.

“Our developments not only help sustain local employment, but also ensure young people gain valuable skills for a long-term future in the construction industry.”

“Our national development programme stands at £750m for the period 2011-15 and will see the delivery of more than 5,000 new homes by next March. We have stayed confident throughout but, nationally, we are increasingly seeing confidence returning to the construction sector.

“There is a definite pick up, although I have to say that it differs from region to region. In London, the South East and East we are seeing more confidence, more investment, more building and prices rising, whereas it tends to be behind that in other areas and is lower the further north you go.

“They will catch up, though, but initially as the sector recovers, you will see labour shortages and higher materials prices.”

Artist’s perspective of how the development at Sanctuary Grove will look when finished.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

031

Wyre Forest Cemetery

Amada UK, Kidderminster

Worcester Bosch

Hereford Police Station

Bridgewater & Coulton is a professional practice of Chartered Quantity Surveyors, Cost Consultants, Project Managers, Employer’s Agents and CDM Co-ordinators with offices in Worcester and Coventry.

We were established in 1935, and have the necessary experience to assist our clients in all procurement routes and methods of construction. This experience is also balanced with innovation to ensure we offer the best possible service on all projects.

We work for a full range of private, commercial and public sector clients on projects ranging from £50,000 to over £20m and offer a high level of service backed by an excellent track record.

We function as individual consultants, as members of the design teams, or within a consortium.

We can advise on all elements of a construction project including, cost, design, quality, time, value for money, risk management, associated legal aspects, health and safety, etc.

For more information contact us on:

T. 01905 26479 F: 01905 723960 E: worcester@bandc-uk.info | W: www.bandc-uk.info 30 New Street Worcester WR1 2DP

We can also assist clients in assembling project teams when acting as Project Managers.

For a detailed discussion on your individual requirements please contact Malcolm Knight who would be happy to assist.

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

YOUR LOCAL BUILDING AND HEATING CONTRACTORS C J Bayliss (Hereford) Ltd are delighted to have created a new plumbing and heating division as part of their already well-established family-owned construction company.

Based in Hereford, we undertake a wide range of building construction projects, including new builds, renovations on historic buildings, public and community structures, church and other ecclesiastical projects, social housing, commercial developments, as well as smaller builds including extensions for both commercial and residential projects.

Our workmanship and attention to detail is our number one priority, and we are fully focused on providing a quality service and meeting the requirements and expectations of our clients.

The new division, a natural expansion of the business started in 1955 by Cyril Bayliss, whose son Ray and grandson Michael are the company’s current director and managing director, offers a complete range of plumbing and heating services:

n System power flushing

n Boiler servicing – from £50.00 plus vat (Gas, LPG & Oil)

n Free quotations

n Domestic & Commercial central heating repairs and installation n Landlord inspections, safety reports and certificates n Domestic & Commercial boiler replacements and system updates n Full system installation n All plumbing works

n Solar heating repairs and installation n Under floor heating & Ground source heat pump installations With a wealth of experience, a client portfolio including Herefordshire Council, The Duchy of Cornwall and the National Trust, a commitment to attention of detail and meeting the expectations and requirements of clients. C J Bayliss guarantee the new division will offer the same level of service to customers, old and new.

For more information please contact Terry or Sarah at our office on 01432 265130 or by email at heating@cjbayliss.co.uk

The aim of the new division is to add plumbing and heating services to our extensive range of construction skills. As part of this new in-house division, a service and maintenance business has been launched to offer the expertise and attention to detail that the company is known for, to a wide range of customers.

The new division will be headed up by Terry Morgan, who has nearly 40 years’ experience in the plumbing and heating trade. Joining Terry and manning the office and administration side of the tam is Sarah Bathurst.

Our engineers, Tim Burgoyne, Robin Morris and Chris Morgan are all Gas Safe and OFTEC registered and have more than 30 years’ experience between them.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

033

JOSEPH WOODS Builders

Property Maintenance in Hereford &Worcester We are Joseph Woods Builders a small work force with a lot to offer! We have over 260 years of Knowledge.

All of our staff are professionaly trained with many years of experience within the building industry Services

Current Projects

n Building Refurbishments

n English Heritage

n Quality Joinery Work

n Worcester City Council

n Property Maintenance

n Worcestershire County Council (including schools)

n 24 Hour Emergency Work

n University of Worcester n Worcester College of Technology n The National Trust

For more information on how we can assist you call us on

01905 455 060

Unit 7 Buckholt Business Centre, Buckholt Drive, Worcester, Hereford &Worcester WR4 9ND

Engineering your company into pole position!

The Centinal group is a leading manufacturer and supplier of hydraulic and engineering products. We distribute, design, subcontract machine, manufacture and market a full range of hydraulic, cable jointing and engineering products.

Based in south central England we have an unrivalled purchasing and manufacturing power along with expertise and equipment to match.

Engineering your company into pole position!

With the latest technology and comprehensive range of CNC machines including lathes and machining centres that provide us with unmatched manufacturing capabilities. We continuously invest in new technology to keep the company at the top end of performance, quality and boast an in-house CAD design facility.

We are official distributors and suppliers of leading brands The Centinal group is a leading manufacturer and supplier of including: Burndy, Baudat, SPX Power Team, Parker Hannifin and many more. hydraulic and engineering products. We distribute, design, subBy combining this technology with fully qualified engineers we contract machine, and market a full range of can further develop manufacture your unique requirements. hydraulic, cable jointingwww.centinalgroup.co.uk and engineering products.

Worcester:

Oxford:

Reading:

Based in south central England we have an unrivalled purchasing and manufacturing power along with expertise and equipment to match.

Central Engineering The Brook Works,174 Bromyard Road Worcester WR2 5EE Telephone: 01905 748569 Email: damian@cehsltd.co.uk

Unit 2, Pony Road Horspath Industrial Estate, Cowley, Oxford OX4 2RD Telephone: 01865 715757 Email: sales@mfhydraulics.co.uk

Parkerstore Unit 2, The Microcentre Gillette Way, Reading RG2 0LR Telephone: 01189 864566 Email: nick@mfhydraulics.co.uk

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

ENGLISH MUTUAL: AN ANNOUNCEMENT...

When English Mutual was sold in 2012 some people thought that it was a little odd.

They thought that something must be wrong; that the company must have been in “trouble” and been a victim of circumstance in that long, hard and seemingly endless financial crisis.

However, in truth, the decision to sell was based on a realisation that things needed to change.

We realised that people in this country wanted and deserved something new; that they were tired of being let down by their banks, their advisers and their insurance companies; of being overcharged and under serviced, being spoken to in language they didn’t understand and having their money invested in ways they couldn’t relate to, seemingly for the financial benefit and gain of other people.

We realised that people wanted to receive great service and to feel valued and secure. That they didn’t want to just be sold the products of companies that didn’t seem to care by advisers who had little or no control over the delivery of the outcomes they had promised.

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For years we had spoken of wanting to do something amazing in the UK, of wanting to build the finest financial business in the country; a company of excellent reputation; a company of both substance and style, where everyone associated with us felt looked after and part of something “different”. We realised that if we were serious, if we really wanted to become more than just another local financial advisory firm, if we wanted to genuinely lead the market, we needed to change.

We knew that it wasn’t enough to just give advice anymore. We knew that to best serve our clients we had to be responsible. Responsible for the products we recommended, responsible for our failures and successes in equal measure and, most important of all, responsible for the performance of our clients investments.

So we became part of Sanlam, a company dedicated to redefining how client wealth is invested and managed in this country and, ultimately, how financial planning advice is delivered and received.

30000 people we can now start to deliver on both our promise and our promises.

But it’s not all about money. Sanlam’s culture is one of empowerment and improving people’s lives, understanding that we must keep decency at our core and that we have a duty of care, not only to our clients and staff, but to everybody, for the greater good of us all. It is that, above everything that makes Sanlam special.

So, from the 14th July 2014, English Mutual will proudly trade as Sanlam and, whilst it may all start to look very new, some things will never change; our knowledge, appreciation and understanding whose money we look after and to whom we are accountable, our recognition of our responsibility, our position within the community and the need for generosity and humility.

We would like to thank everyone who has supported English Mutual over the years and look forward to talking to you about the future, a future we hope you will want to part of.

THESE ARE BIG WORDS; BUT SANLAM IS COMPANY THAT MEANS IT. As part of a AA- rated international organisation which manages over £44 billion pounds and employs over

July/August 2014

We are looking forward to meeting you

Sanlam is a trading name of Sanlam Wealth Planning UK Ltd (Reg. in England 3879955) and English Mutual Ltd (Reg. in England 6685913). English Mutual Ltd is an appointed representative of Sanlam Wealth Planning UK Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: St. Bartholomew’s House, Lewins Mead, Bristol BS1 2NH. Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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+44 (0)845 603 3679 getintouch@sanlam.co.uk

www.sanlam.co.uk

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CONFERENCEWORCESTERSHIRE

www.conference-worcestershire.org/meetings-events

STANBROOK ABBEY RENOVATIONS HAVE BEGUN The renovation of Stanbrook Abbey has begun! 2014 signals the start of the evolvement of this iconic events venue, as the exciting renovation work commences.

Stanbrook Abbey was purchased in 1835 by a community of Benedictine nuns who called the Abbey their home for over 170 years. In 2009 it was purchased by Mike Clare (founder of Dreams Bed Company) and underwent extensive refurbishment prior to opening the first phase in

The next phase of development is very exciting and incorporates the installation of the Garden Pavilion, which will be able to accommodate up to 200 guests for banquet dining as well as a new 49 luxury bedroom hotel. The work is due for completion in autumn 2014 but Stanbrook Abbey will continue to be open for business throughout this exciting period. www.amazingvenues.co.uk/venues/ stanbrook-abbey

MEETINGS AT THE MANOR

HOTEL ENJOYS A STAR ROLE

If you’re bored with boardrooms, why not host your corporate retreat in an historic Cotswold Manor House, complete with Chef and House Butler?

The Southcrest Manor Hotel is set to star on the small screen as part of a hit property programme, Channel 4’s A Place in the Sun: Home and Away.

Foxhill Manor, a Grade-II listed, eight-bedroomed residence, complete with ballroom, media room and grand staircase, is available to hire for the first time in more than 100 years.

In the episode, show presenter Jonnie Irwin helps a family who live near Wythall find a home, and the Pool Bank hotel was used as the filming location for where the couple discuss what they thought of the properties shown to them.

Foxhill Manor was built in 1909 and is set at the heart of the private 400-acre Farncombe Estate with long views over Broadway and the Vale of Evesham. It has just opened after a £2.2m refurbishment, as a glamorous exclusive-use venue.

Jonnie Irwin said: “At the end of the show we wanted somewhere quiet and attractive to find out what their thoughts were and so we came here because it has got beautiful gardens and it is quiet and away from the crowds.”

Foxhill Manor will be operated by the experienced hospitality team at Dormy House. Features include a sweeping drive, 038

September 2012. Stanbrook Abbey forms part of the newly launched AmaZing Venues collection, a group of iconic and historical properties.

sunset terrace for drinks or a marquee, exceptionally spacious bedrooms and suites, a media room with outsized bean bags, a ballroom licenced for weddings – and The Pantry, a cupboard full of good things to eat, for when guests get the midnight munchies. www.foxhillmanor.com

Maxine Napolitano, Business Development Manager, added the hotel had hosted previous stars such as Danny Dyer, Laurence

Llewelyn-Bowen and Todd Carty, as well as being used for Location, Location, Location.

She said: “It has been great having them here and its lovely they approached us because of our lovely views. It is a great compliment to receive and just shows the wonderful things this hotel has to offer.” www.southcrestmanorhotel.com July/August 2014

DESTINATIONWORCESTERSHIRE

BUY LOCAL AT THE TOURIST INFOMATION CENTRE The Worcester Tourist Information Centre (TIC) now officially stocks locally produced Worcestershire Black Pear Sweets and locally brewed cider.

The Worcestershire Black Pear sweets are a creation by the award winning Mr Chill’s Traditional Sweet Emporium in Evesham, a deep purple oversized pear drop with a sugar coating and the fruity flavours of pear and blackcurrant. The sweets are packaged in a 200g Worcestershire Flag branded jar.

Oldfields Orchard Ciders are made by the multi-award winning Hobsons Brewery and Geoff Thompson, whose hop fields and orchards at Oldfields sit side by side on beautiful south-facing hills near the River Teme. The ‘Worcestershire Cider’ is made from freshly pressed local apples, with a medium dry and a medium sweet flavour, and the impressive ‘Discovery Cider’, made from Discovery dessert apples, is presented in a beautiful Italian Prosecco bottle.

The TIC are also the only stockists in the city of ‘a gift from Worcester’ branded clotted cream fudge and shortbread.

There is also a vast array of Worcestershire souvenirs, from pens to fine porcelain, so why not contact the TIC for bespoke corporate gift sets for your clients?

The TIC can be contacted on 01905 726311 or visited at The Guildhall, High Street, Worcester.

VISIT WORCESTERSHIRE MEMBERS HONOURED AT THE VISITENGLAND AWARDS Two Visit Worcestershire members have been honoured at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2014, which were held on the 12th May at Cheltenham Racecourse.

Brockencote Hall Hotel near Kidderminster was Highly Commended in the Small Hotel of the Year category for the second year running and Eckington Manor was given two awards, being named as the silver award winner in the Bed and Breakfast/Guest Accommodation category and the bronze award winner in the Taste of England section.

Victoria Carman, Tourism Development Officer at Visit

Worcestershire said: ‘We have seen two outstanding venues recognised at these prestigious awards and I am delighted that Worcestershire has been put firmly on the national map for tourism excellence. Visit Worcestershire members all work to very high standards and it’s great that these two venues have been rewarded nationally.’

Visit Worcestershire will be launching its own prestigious local tourism awards in June, which will culminate in a gala awards ceremony on Thursday October 23rd at the Mercure Kidderminster Hotel. If you would like to enter these awards please go to: www.visitworcestershire.org/awards

VISIT WORCESTERSHIRE WEBSITE REACHES OVER 70,000 VISITORS The Visit Worcestershire website reached 70,403 visitors during May 2014. Compared to the May 2011 figures of 11,607 visitors, this is a massive achievement and the highest volume of traffic since it was launched.

You can find all the things you need to know to help plan day trips, short breaks or family holidays in the county, from attractions and accommodation to restaurants and retailers, and much more.

The website is full of tourist information for Worcestershire and promotes the county as a tourism destination to domestic and international markets, working alongside VisitEngland (the national tourist board).

If you would like to promote your business on the official Visit Worcestershire website contact the team today on

0845 161 1547

www.visitworcestershire.org

STAY UP TO DATE Join our fellow 10,000+ followers on Twitter and 4,800+ Facebook fans to get up to the minute information and ideas for things to do in our beautiful county. See why the beauty of the Malvern Hills inspired J.R.R Tolkein and C.S Lewis and get amazing ideas for great days out and fantastic breaks, as well as the latest news and goings on in the area! facebook.com/visitworcestershire twitter.com/VisitWorcs Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHAMBEREVENTS

CHANGE OF FORMAT FOR THE HR FORUMS - in association with Hewett Recruitment The Chamber and Hewett Recruitment have been running our HR Forums for HR Professionals since 2008.

THE NEW SEVERN RIVER FESTIVAL The River Severn will be the central attraction at an event to celebrate the ancient life blood of the city, on Saturday, August 30th 2014, organised by the Chamber of Commerce.

Worcester Rowing Club and Worcester Dragons will also be hosting an array of boat races throughout the day. Worcester Dragons Chair, Max Allan said, “ Working with the Chamber, it is great to be able to invite local businesses that wish to enter a team to take part in the festival and compete alongside other companies“.

Dominic O’Loghlin, Club Captain of the Worcester Rowing Club, said: “Worcester Rowing Club which is celebrating 140 years of Rowing in the city this year are proud to be a part of this fantastic and innovative sporting event. The river festival is shaping up to be a spectacular sporting event , not to be missed. The City is in for a treat.”

Our speakers are selected from a wide variety of businesses and topics include updates in legislation as well as advances in HR thinking designed to help you run your business legally and effectively.

From July, all of our forums will be free for members and clients of Hewett Recruitment and will run from 9.30am – 11.30am.

REDDITCH Wednesday 10th September 2014 Wednesday 5th November 2014 Wednesday 25th February 2015

HEREFORD Tuesday 8th July 2014 Tuesday 14th October 2014 Tuesday 20th January 2015 Places are limited so to reserve your seat, please email events@hwchamber. co.uk

WORCESTER Tuesday 16th September 2014 Tuesday 2nd December 2014 Tuesday 17th March 2015

There will be a market running along the banks of the river with a variety of stall holders and family entertainment. The festival is taking place within the weekend of the Worcester Music Festival, so visitors will be able to listen to musicians and performers who will be playing alongside the river too as well as youthcomm who will be supporting throughout the day.

Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce. said: “Worcester is a city that is on the map because of the Severn and its capacity for trade. The river is a feature of the city that we should make more of, particularly as a tourist attraction and a centre for our leisure industry. I look forward to seeing the city’s waterway come to life at this great new event.”

This event is FREE to attend and if you would like to get involved in any way, please contact events@hwchamber.co.uk.

CHAMBER EXPO EVENT The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce will be holding its next Business Expo on Thursday 18th September from 9am-3pm at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern.

The exhibition is one of Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s biggest business events, attracting over 125 stalls and 900 visitors in March. It is a great place to: n n n n

Make new contacts Catch up with friends and business contacts Tell people about your business Meet local suppliers

Kick-starting with a networking breakfast for an hour before the official opening of the exhibition at 9am, the September Expo will include the following elements: The Great Chamber Bake Off! In aid of Macmillan Cancer Care Chamber staff and members will be encouraged to bring their homemade cakes to the event to be judged and auctioned off to raise funds for the charity.

Business Support Zone, sponsored by Worcestershire.Business.Central Find out what business support and advice is available for your business.

SAVE THE DATE! Women’s Business Conference Friday 17th October 2014 9.30am – 2.30pm The Abbey Hotel, Malvern 040

Herefordshire and Worcestershire business people are invited to attend the first Women’s Business Conference this October. More details are to be confirmed in due course but save the date now to make sure you don’t miss this fantastic event and our interesting and exciting speakers!

Construction Conference With a number of exhibitors from the construction sector and keynote industry speakers.

An exhibition stand (including one free breakfast) costs members £250+VAT and non-members £350+VAT. Places are available at the breakfast for £17.50+VAT for members and £22.50+VAT for non-members.

To find out more visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/expos, email events@hwchamber.co.uk or phone 0845 641 1641.

July/August 2014

CHAMBEREVENTS

NETWORKING CALENDAR JULY - AUGUST 2014 July 2014 Worcester Networking Breakfast Tuesday 8th July 7.30am-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road Worcester, WR2 4QQ £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Malvern Networking Breakfast Thursday 31st July 7.30am-9.30am Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Malvern, WR14 3ET £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

August 2014

Hereford HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Tuesday 8th July 9.30am-11.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Hereford, HR4 7RW FREE EVENT

Malvern Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Tuesday 12th August 6.00pm - 8.00pm Anupam, 85 Church Street, Great Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 2AE £15.00+VAT Members and Non-members

Hereford Women’s Business Forum in association with Thorne Widgery Accountancy Wednesday 9th July 9.30am-11.30am Thorne Widgery, 2 Wyevale Business Park, Kings Acre, Hereford, HR4 7BS £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Worcester Networking Breakfast Thursday 14th August 7.30am – 9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester, WR2 4JJ £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Malvern Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Tuesday 15th July 6.00pm - 8.00pm Anupam, 85 Church Street, Great Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 2AE £15.00+VAT Members and Non-members Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 16th July 7.30am-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Hereford, HR4 7RW £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members Bromsgrove Networking Lunch Friday 18th July 12.30pm – 2.30pm Holiday Inn, Bromsgrove £17.50+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members Chamber Golf Day Sponsored by HomeXperts In aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice Monday 14th July 2014 Wharton Park Golf Club, Bewdley, DY12 2QW Arrival refreshments, 18 Holes, 3 Course Presentation Dinner Goody Bag for every player Teams of 4 £306.00 To Book please contact sales@amrosgolf.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Worcester Street Market - Food, drink, arts and crafts Saturday 16th August 9.00am – 5.00pm Worcester High Street FREE – no booking required Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 20th August 7.30am-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Hereford, HR4 7RW £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members Malvern Networking Breakfast Thursday 28th August 7.30am-9.30am Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Malvern, WR14 3ET £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members Severn Festival – boat races, riverside market and entertainment Saturday 30th August All Day The Riverside by the fountains, Worcester City Centre FREE attendance for all the family - No booking required Visit the website for more information and to book www.hwchamber.co.uk/calendar or call 0845 6411641

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NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH BROMSGROVE Corrosion X Limited 01527 888955 www.corrosion-x.co.uk

Focal Image 01527 832984 www.focalimage.co.uk

Ultimate Sports Nutrition (UK) ltd 0845 1800 556 www.usn.co.uk

Herefordshire Riding for the Disabled 01432 870831 www.rdahereford.org

Lovescape Holistic Therapy 01432 639050 Lynda Amos Wealth Management 01432 343818 www.lyndaamos.co.uk

The Best of Hereford Ltd 01432 291012

DROITWICH

www.thebestof.co.uk/hereford

Jotika Ltd 01905 776073

The Wobbly Brewing Company Limited 01432 278345

www.jotika-ltd.com

www.wobblybrewing.co.uk

SPA Print 01905 775813

Tomlins Training 01981 880303

www.ellisonstudios.co.uk

EVESHAM Kleena Coola Ltd 01386 840008 www.kcoola.co.uk

Scott Farms (UK) Ltd 01386 446648 www.scottfarmsinternational.com

HEREFORD A.J & C.I Snell 01989 730229 www.ajandcisnell.co.uk

Basically Wooden 01432 340401

MALVERN HD Connectivity Ltd 01684 576348 www.hdconnectivity.com

REDDITCH Autotechnik Systems Ltd 01527 598050 www.autotechnik.co.uk

Storwell Systems Ltd 01527 592444 www.storwellsystems.co.uk

STOURPORT ON SEVERN Rotary Printers (Stourport-on-Severn) Ltd 01299 823839 www.rotaryprinters.co.uk

www.tomlinstraining.co.uk

WORCESTER

White Haywood Farm Restaurant and B & B 01981 510324

Create Safer Organisations 01886 888133

www.blackmountainsfarmrestaurant.co.uk

www.createsaferorgs.com

KIDDERMINSTER

DHD Solutions Ltd 01905 317370

Eastmills Ltd 01562 865085 Good Health Naturally 01562 822102 www.goodhealth-naturally.co.uk

Integrated Continuity Solutions 0843 123 1233 www.continuity.uk.com

www.basicallywooden.co.uk

Kentmaster Ltd 01299 253394

Faith In Flowers 01432 373695

www.kentmaster.com

www.faithinflower.co.uk

LEOMINSTER

Gabbs Solicitors LLP 01432 353481

TCHOUKBALL UK 07976 442576

www.gabbs.biz

www.tchoukball.org.uk

Hereford Rewinds Limited 01432 275002

Tiger Aviation Limited 01568 708028

www.herefordrewinds.co.uk

www.tigeraviation.co.uk

www.dhdsolutions.co.uk

EML - Event Management & Logistics Ltd 0845 680 9870 www.em-l.co.uk

Energy Simple Ltd 01905 384222 www.energysimple.com

Farries Business Services 01905 921553 www.farriesbusinessservices.co.uk

Hays Specialist Recruitment 01905 726427 www.hays.co.uk

Image ID 01905 821258 www.imageid.co.uk

Luxury Hampers and Gifts Ltd 01905 745437

CHAMBER LEGAL EXPENSES INSURANCE

No matter how well you plan and manage your business you never know when you are going to face unexpected legal fees. Members are entitled to free Legal Expenses Insurance (terms and conditions apply). Call 0845 641 1641 www.hwchamber.co.uk.co.uk/legal-expenses-insurance

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July/August 2014

NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH Mike Henley Photography 01905 424834

Venture Public Relations Ltd 01905 560207

Caprica Healthcare 07770 390972

Namesco Limited 0845 363 3332

OUT OF AREA

Mevyn 02032 817780

Spirit Executive Limited 01905 28590

www.advantageifa.co.uk

www.mikehenleyphotography.co.uk

www.names.co.uk

www.spiritexecutive.com

The Recruitment Company Midlands Ltd 01905 731234 www.therecruitmentcompany.org.uk

www.ventureprmarketing.com

Advantage IFA Ltd 02920 444044

Auctus Bid Consulting 01905 724357

www.auctusbidconsult.co.uk

Bridgewater & Coulton 01905 264 79

www.capricahealthcare.com

www.mevyn.co.uk

Performance Paints Ltd 01684 273040 www.performancepaints.eu

Universal Learning Ltd 07966 443380

www.universallearningltd.com

www.bandc-uk.info

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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MEMBERSSERVICES

GOLF DAYS 2014 Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce invite all businesses to join the Business Golf Society. Not only do golf events offer an enjoyable game but has also give members the opportunity to network in an informal and relaxed environment.

Golf networking allows attendees to get to know their fellow competitors over a longer period of time, ensuring better business relationships as well as encouraging a healthy dose of competitive spirit!

The society was launched in January 2013 and membership is completely free of charge. The Chamber will host a series of its own events throughout 2014 as well as supporting a number of local Charity Golf Days. The Society welcomes male and female players of any level, both members and non members of the Chamber.

2014 DATES: MONDAY 14TH JULY 2014 Sponsored by HomeXperts In aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice Wharton Park Golf Club, Bewdley, DY12 2QW Arrival refreshments, 18 Holes, 3 Course

Presentation Dinner Goody Bag for every player Teams of 4 £306.00 To book please contact sales@amrosgolf.co.uk

FRIDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER 2014 St Michaels Hospice Charity Golf Day The South Herefordshire Golf Club, Upton Bishop, Ross on Wye, HR9 7UA Tea, coffee & Bacon Rolls, 18 Holes, Presentation Dinner Teams of 4 £240.00 To book please contact emorawiecka@ st-michaels-hospice.org.uk

FRIDAY 3RD OCTOBER 2014 Sponsored by CB Chartered Accountants In aid of The Emily Jordon Foundation The Worcestershire Golf Club, Malvern WR14 4PP Arrival refreshments, 18 Holes, 3 Course Presentation Dinner Goody Bag for every player Teams of 4 £360.00

CHEAPER BROKER PRICES MEAN EVEN MORE SAVINGS FOR BUSINESSES Simply Business Energy are generating an impressive track record of switching businesses onto cheaper contracts for their gas and electricity consumption.

Over the years, hundreds of businesses have enjoyed achieving lower energy bills through the company’s straightforward, hassle free service.

But there’s more great news to come, as Simply Business Energy announce that they are significantly cheaper than other energy brokers. Compared to other specialist business energy brokers, Simply Business Energy’s quotes are hundreds of pounds cheaper on average.

Local business, Brookend Farm House, owned by Julie Aldersey, chose Simply Business Energy to switch. As well as making significant savings on her energy costs, Julie saved £310 a year compared to other quotes she’d received, and was over the moon with the service.

OFGEM research shows two in five

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businesses have never switched providers. If you haven’t made the switch, you could be paying too much for your gas and electricity. When it’s time to switch, choose Simply Business Energy as your specialist broker and enjoy double savings for your business. www.simplybusinessenergy.co.uk

HASSLE-FREE HEALTHCARE INSURANCE FOR MEMBERS Widely respected healthcare insurance expert Edna Maule-ffinch has over 20 years’ experience in the industry and has built a trusted network during her career, which has played a key role in giving her personal, family and corporate clients, peace of mind.

Edna said: “From the minute I arrived in the healthcare industry I have put sincerity, integrity and customer service at the centre of everything I do. But for me it’s also about giving a tailored approach for clients.

There should never be a one-size-fits-all solution for something so important.”

Edna, who is offering a free initial consultation session to all Chamber members, provides no-nonsense advice on private medical insurance, life cover, critical illness, income protection and business insurance. Members interested in securing their future can contact Edna through

edna.mauleffinch@capricahealthcare.com or telephone 07770 390972. www.capricahealthcare.com

Thinking About Joining?

Join now and get 10% off membership by quoting this code: BD101HWC

Offer valid until 31st July 2014 only open to new members

www.hwchamber.c

o.uk July/August 2014

POLICYNEWS

NEW BANKING SURVEY LAUNCHED Access to finance for growing businesses remains one of the barriers to growth. The British Chambers of Commerce continues to work on a better Business Bank, a bond market for SMEs, more incentives for equity finance and by helping businesses to check what their peers think about service from banks.

‘WE HAD OUR SAY ON THE BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE MANIFESTO’ Members of the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce met at the Elim Conference Centre in Malvern, to share thoughts and opinion on business issues with a team from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Mike Spicer, Director of Research, Hannah Staunton, Director of Press & Campaigns and Nida Broughton, Chief Economist from the Social Market Foundation travelled from London to gather local opinion on business issues, which will then be fed in to the BCC Election Manifesto.

The discussion focussed around skills & employment and access to finance; just two of the barriers to growth that are experienced both locally and nationally. The home team explained that although work was being done to better connect schools and businesses, there was still some ignorance about, for example, the range

The Chamber has also helped to launch a new Business Banking Insight (BBI), a first of its kind website which looks at how well the UK’s small and medium-sized businesses are being served by banks. Commissioned by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, BBI is designed to help businesses make better informed banking decisions. The programme is driven by ongoing support from the BCC and other key stakeholders.

For more information go to:

www.businessbankinginsight.co.uk

of jobs available in engineering; there is competition for skilled workers from larger companies and careers advice in schools is still inadequate. It was suggested that Careers Advice be based in Chambers and included in Ofsted inspection.

On access to finance, it was suggested that there is an appetite for a more local, relationship based banking model, to help with the speed of decision making.

A central website which would offer comprehensive advice on access to funding was felt to be essential, and it was suggested that there is a big impact from business rates policy in declining areas.

And lastly of course, roads and infrastructure are an issue locally as is Rural Broadband.

The team will now take the feedback back to London along with the views of other Chambers and we look forward to seeing the completed manifesto.

If you would like to know more about policy at the Chamber of Commerce please go to: www.hwchamber.co.uk/support/policy

THE QES INFORMING: THE GOVERNMENT FOR THE LAST 25 YEARS The British Chambers of Commerce and the accredited Chamber Network run Britain’s most influential private business survey – the BCC Quarterly Economic Survey.

The Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) is the largest and most representative independent business survey of its kind in the UK, and this year it celebrates its 25th year of informing government.

Each quarter, over 7,500 businesses participate in the QES. All accredited Chambers of Commerce across the Country ask businesses the same questions at the same time, looking at a wide range of issues, including; home sales and orders, export sales and orders, employment prospects, investment, recruitment difficulties, cash flow, confidence and price pressures.

Local results are fed into the British Chambers of Commerce to formulate the first national economic indicator of the quarter, published in advance of official figures and other private surveys, and it consistently mirrors trends in official data; because of this, it is closely watched by key organisations, including the Treasury, the Bank of England, the Office of Budget Responsibility, the EU Commission and the IMF. Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce have a very good track record of completing surveys and are currently ranked 9th out of 53 Accredited Chambers for their participation. The more responses - the more influence, so this is a statistic we work hard to maintain; so please continue to fill yours

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

in! The results of all the surveys are published on our website: www.hwchamber.co.uk/support/policy/quarterlyeconomic-survey

The QES now has its very own website where you can find out even more about the survey: www.economicsurvey.org.uk

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CHARITYNEWS

LET’S MAKE IT HAPPEN We have all supported many charitable causes over the years. We now have the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of thousands in our area.

Will you join us in this deal making proposition? The Worcestershire Breast Unit Campaign has to date raised nearly £1.2 million and only £115,000 is now needed to enable the work on the new unit to commence.

LET’S AVOID FURTHER DELAY… LET’S MAKE IT HAPPEN. If each business were to contribute £50 to the fund… IT WILL HAPPEN. In recognition, you will be added to the role of honour of donors to be published in the Worcester News.

YOU CAN DONATE BY:

SUCCESSFULLY INSPIRING YOUNG LIVES The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Prince’s Trust Development Committee was delighted to be the charity of choice for last Wednesday’s evening of racing at Worcester Racecourse.

This was the first event of its type put on by the Racecourse and the Trust and it proved to be a great success, promoting awareness of the Trust’s work and raising much needed funds for its work locally.

There were nine stalls at the racecourse, each manned by individuals who have started their businesses with support from The Prince’s Trust Enterprise scheme.

The event allowed them to promote

their businesses and share with others how The Prince’s Trust has helped them personally. For some of the young people this was the first time they had exhibited their business and they all agreed that the experience was really positive.

“We were delighted to be working with the Prince’s Trust for the first time and to be able to help showcase some of the inspirational businesses that have been started with the support of the Prince’s Trust Enterprise scheme,” said Jenny Cheshire, General Manager Worcester Racecourse. www.princes-trust.org.uk

n Sending a cheque payable to Worcestershire Breast Unit Campaign, with your name and the name and address of your business, (quoting “Chamber”) to:

PR man Stuart Henry has raised almost £3,000 for charity Reverse Rett after completing the London Marathon in ‘gruelling’ heat.

n Bank transfer to: Worcestershire Breast Unit Campaign HSBC Sort Code: 30-93-11 Account number: 02504965

NOTE: if you do give by bank transfer, please notify the Campaign office directly of your gift by emailing details directly to Nichola.Underwood@ worcsbreastunitcampaign.nhs.uk.

Please include your name, and the name and address of your business (quoting “Chamber”) so that the Campaign can acknowledge your support.

With grateful thanks from all at the Chamber and Worcestershire Ambassadors….LET’S DO IT. www.everybodyknowssomebody.co.uk

BREWING BEER TO HELP BIRDS Family-run Birds Brewery have brewed a new beer, called Nightjar, to help raise funds for Worcestershire Wildlife Trust.

The brewery will be donating 2p from the sale of every bottle and 2.8p from the sale of every pint to help with the Trust’s conservation work at The Devil’s Spittleful and throughout the county.

Delia Shannon, Business Development Officer for the Trust, said: “Heathland is one of our most threatened habitats – Worcestershire has lost 90% in the last 200 years. Nightjars are symbolic birds of heathland; these nocturnal birds

£3,000 RAISED AS PART OF PR MAN’S LONDON MARATHON CHALLENGE

Worcestershire Breast Unit Campaign Freepost RSAX-JTUA-LACU Charles Hastings Education Centre Charles Hastings Way Worcester WR5 1DD

were once found on heathlands across North Worcestershire. We’re hopeful that heathland restoration work on our Devil’s Spittleful nature reserve will enable these birds to return to the county once more.”

Nightjar will be available on the pumps at The Ladybird Inn, Bromsgrove and the Admiral Rodney, Berrow Green and is available to buy by the bottle from the Bird’s Brewery shop in Old Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove or online at www. birdsbrewery.co.uk www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk

Stuart, 34, from Worcestershire firm Henry Pepper PR, completed the tough 26-mile course in just over five hours and has thanked his sponsors for their support.

“Although I trained hard, I wasn’t prepared for the high temperatures during the marathon, but I am pleased to have finished and to have that all important medal. I was raising money for Blake McMillan, who is from my native Dundee. He suffers from MECP2 Duplication Syndrome, so the £3,000 has gone towards a research programme into his condition. Once again, I’d like to

thank everyone who sponsored me and who has shown an interest in Blake.”

Stuart’s shirt sponsors included Henry Pepper PR, Premier Places and Chamber patrons, mfg Solicitors. www.henrypepperpr.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

047

MOVERSANDSHAKERS

L-R: Jacob Grey, Elliot Troth, Alistair HaywardWright and Chloe Blackwell

HANNAH TOOTH, CHRIS GARSIDE, THEBESTOF HEREFORD ROSS PRINCE, CROWE CLARK WHITEHILL MIDLANDS An accountant who joined the firm as a trainee chartered accountant in August 2002 has risen through the ranks to become a partner at national audit, tax and advisory firm Crowe Clark Whitehill’s Midlands office.

Ross Prince, who is also chair of the Worcestestershire Group of Chartered Accountants, became a partner at the firm’s Midlands office on Tuesday, April 1.

Ross Prince said: “It is great to be recognised by the firm in this way and it demonstrates that when you join Crowe Clark Whitehill there is a clear route to the top if you put the work in and show dedication and enthusiasm.

Hannah and Chris are the proud new owners of thebestof Hereford. In the county they call home, they really look forward to helping other local companies to connect with the surrounding community and raise their profile locally. The buy local ethos is extremely important in a world where supermarkets and large organisations very much lead the market, and Hannah and Chris look forward to championing the high street and keeping local enterprise alive. www.thebestof.co.uk/hereford

Based at Gabbs’ Hereford office, John is a solicitor specialising in family law and civil litigation.

Charlotte ”Speedy Gonzalez” Millward, is the friendly and cheerful pair of hands who helps customers at Sign-Rite, from initial enquiry to checking jobs are completed to their satisfaction.

John brings with him many years of ‘know how’ and has extensive experience of advocacy in court. He has appeared successfully on appeal in the High Court and has acted in cases involving well known individuals from the worlds of TV and film.

Manminder is a Solicitor in the family/ matrimonial department, based mainly at our Hereford office. She has over 7 years experience in dealing with disputes arising from family breakdowns and prides herself on being able to offer her clients an efficient yet sensitive service during challenging periods in their personal lives.

048

Charlotte (20), from Leominster, had a placement at Sign-Rite to complete her Business Administration apprenticeship and so impressed that a Customer Support job was created for her at the Herefordshire company. “We discovered that we couldn’t do without her cheerful efficiency,” said Creative Director Clancy Wilson.

Scott “Maker & Fixer” Wood joined Sign-Rite as a trainee signmaker. Scott (28) has a background in the hospitality industry but his hobbies demonstrated his aptitude for the role of designing, making and installing signage.

Chloe Blackwell and Elliot Troth, both 19, and 18-year-old Jacob Grey have joined the Worcestershire based practice, which specialises in tax planning, statutory accounts and business advice.

The trio are concentrating on specialist areas and will be mentored by the senior team as each works towards their Level 3 AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) diploma.

“Our industry needs fresh faces and must attract the talent of tomorrow. I think we’ve got three first-class trainees who, with hard work and dedication, have promising careers ahead of them.” www.haywardwright.co.uk

www.croweclarkwhitehill.co.uk

CHARLOTTE MILLWARD, SCOTT WOOD, SIGN-RITE

Hayward Wright Chartered Accountants has taken on three new apprentices as part of their growth plans.

Managing Director Alistair Hayward-Wright said: “Chloe, Elliot and Jacob have the passion and enthusiasm we look for in all of our people.

“I look forward to continuing to contribute to the growth of our Midlands office, and I will always be keen to encourage and develop our other young staff, many of whom show a similar aptitude and commitment.”

JOHN SHURVINTON, MANMINDER CHHOKER, GABBS SOLICITORS

CHLOE BLACKWELL, ELLIOT TROTH, JACOB GREY, HAYWARD WRIGHT CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

L-R: Matthew Lee (Managing Partner), Fleur Lewis, Hazel Tucker, and Jerry O’Sulivan (Chairman).

FLEUR LEWIS, HAZEL TUCKER, BISHOP FLEMMING Bishop Fleming, Britain’s fastest growing accountancy firm which has an office in Worcester, has promoted two senior people to its partnership.

Fleur Lewis, who joined Bishop Fleming from Ernst & Young as Director of Audit, and Hazel Tucker, who joined the firm in 2005, have been promoted to the firm’s partnership.

These two appointments increase Bishop Fleming’s number of partners to 26, ten of whom have been admitted within the past three years.

Both John and Manminder are members of Resolution, a national organisation of specialist family lawyers.

“I like projects – like making a replica Iron Man costume - and mending and fixing things at home,” said Scott, from Leominster.

Matthew Lee, the firm’s Managing Partner, said: “We take great pride in the fact that most of our partners have been ‘home-grown’ within the firm. We believe that this policy is at the heart of why we have won so many national awards and been the country’s fastest growing accountancy firm for two years running. “

www.gabbs.biz

www.sign-rite.co.uk

www.bishopfleming.co.uk

PETER HOLDER, S&A PRODUCE (UK) LTD Herefordshire based S&A Produce (UK) Ltd are delighted to announce the appointment of Peter Holder as Group HR Manager.

Peter arrives at the leading grower, packer, importer and exporter of quality soft fruit and asparagus following 12 years in a similar role at a manufacturing company based in North Lincolnshire.

Born in Hereford, Peter studied at Worcester University and has a strong background in recruitment and selection, employee relations and training and development. www.sagroup.co.uk

July/August 2014

MOVERSANDSHAKERS

PETER JOHNSON, JULIE HOMERSLEY, HAINES WATTS Haines Watts recently welcomed two new team members to its expanding team in Hereford.

Peter Johnson, a Chartered Accountant, has lived and worked in Hereford all his life and has a deep understanding of the Herefordshire market. Previously with Baker Tilly, Peter offers a wealth of professional experience to his local client base of unincorporated and agricultural businesses.

Haines Watts have also appointed a new Marketing & Business Development Manager.

Julie Homersley, who specialises in professional services marketing, is familiar with the Hereford market having previously worked at Baker Tilly and Gordon Lutton. Julie’s role will be to build on the firm’s excellent reputation for delivering expert resource at a local level and at a competitive fee. www.hwca.com

HallmarkHulme’s head of probate Trish Venables and new partner Lynda Bragg-Walker

LYNDA BRAGG-WALKER, HALLMARKHULME Lynda Bragg-Walker is the first Chartered Legal Executive in the practice’s 224 year history to take on the role. Her fellow partners are all solicitors.

The mother of two grown-up children, Mrs Bragg-Walker joined the Sansome Place-based firm in 2010 and currently heads up HallmarkHulme’s wills and lasting powers of attorney department.

Mrs Bragg-Walker said: “I’m delighted to have been made a partner and look forward to helping to drive the practice forward. My role entails compliance work relating to our Lexcel qualification and I will also continue to visit elderly clients in their homes or in hospitals or care homes to take instructions and give advice.”

Partner and Head of Probate Trish Venables said: “Lynda is already a great asset to the practice. She has established an excellent relationship with her colleagues and clients and we are delighted that she has agreed to become a partner.” www.hallmarkhulme.co.uk

L-R: Samantha Paxton, Sarah Astbury and Janet Humphries

DIANE HUGHES, MENCAP L-R: Chris Townsend, Julia Whelan and Jonny Wood

CHRIS TOWNSEND, JONNY WOOD, CURO CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Bromsgrove-based Curo Chartered Accountants has recently hired more staff, as it continues to grow the practice and take on more clients.

Chris Townsend joins from a Birmingham practice and has been recruited to work with Curo’s audit and accounts clients. Jonny Wood joins as an apprentice and is studying towards the professional AAT qualification, which he hopes to achieve late 2015.

Julia Whelan from Curo said: “We’re really pleased to welcome Chris and Jonny to the team – Curo has been winning a steady stream of new clients recently and we need good calibre professionals to help and assist on the accounts and tax sides, in particular. www.curoca.co.uk

Mencap is the registered charity that supports people with a learning disability. They have recently appointed Diane Hughes as the new employer engagement facilitator.

Diane works with the employment team to help find jobs and work experience for the clients. She has worked for Mencap for 17 years supporting other teams and is really enjoying her new role with the employment service.

People with a learning disability can work. When they do work, it helps build their confidence and it brings to an employer a motivated, reliable, and committed employee.

Are you looking for new staff, or happy to provide work experience to one of our clients? Can Diane come and meet you and tell you more about the service?

Email: diane.hughes@mencap.org.uk Tel: 01905 740501 www.mencap.org.uk

SAMANTHA PAXTON, JANET HUMPHRIES, MFG SOLICITORS County law firm mfg Solicitors has bolstered its widely respected commercial division with the appointments of Samantha Paxton and Janet Humphries as associates.

Samantha, a commercial property expert, joins mfg from Eversheds while Janet, who has a reputation for leading complex investment transactions, joins from Thursfields. Both will report to partner Sarah Astbury and work across the firm’s offices in Worcestershire and Shropshire. Sarah said: “Samantha and Janet both join us with outstanding reputations for their expertise, experience and advice across a whole host of corporate and commercial legal matters.

DIANE ROGERS, KIDWELLS Kidwells are very happy to welcome Diane Rogers to the Kidwells group on the marketing team for Kidwells Solicitors. Diane brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience in customer service in the retail and business sector, and has a very hands on approach.

EDNA MAULE-FFINCH, CAPRICA HEALTHCARE LTD

“Together they will be immense assets to mfg as we continue to develop services we provide across both the public and private sectors.”

Diane’s first project is to set up and run the new Kidwells Business Networking Group. For further details go to the events page on their website or contact Diane on 01432 278 179

Healthcare insurance expert Edna Maule-ffinch has joined Caprica Healthcare Ltd as an Independent Healthcare Consultant. Well-known across Worcestershire, Edna has over 20 years of experience in the medical insurance industry and specialises in providing professional, cost-effective advice and support on all aspects of Healthcare insurance.

www.mfgsolicitors.com

www.kidwellssolicitors.co.uk

www.capricahealthcare.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Send your stories for Movers and Shakers to: businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk

049

LASTWORD

EXPORT - THE FOCUS OF THE NEXT BUSINESS DIRECTION

For the Last Word, we spoke to Nick Daffern, Managing Director of Rapid Retail, which exports pre-fabricated shops and kiosks.

WHEN DID YOU START EXPORTING? Our first event was the Rugby World Cup 2007, held at Stade de France in Paris. We delivered 13 programme kiosks and a retail unit used for the sale of event merchandise to the event.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE BENEFITS OF EXPORTING?

In this edition we meet Alistair Hayward-Wright, Founder and Managing Director at Redditch and Worcester based Hayward Wright Chartered Accountants

We have seen increased commercialisation, market penetration and, of course, new business opportunities.

TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR COMPANY

WHAT ARE THE PITFALLS? Talking about his export operation, Nick Daffern, Managing Director of Rapid Retail, says: “We have taken our concept of high quality shops, kiosks and retail units to many sports stadia, entertainment venues and events throughout Europe and the UK. Our company’s bespoke units are both portable and easy to install and therefore perfect for export. They offer clients a flexible and low cost way to drive revenue through maximising purchase opportunities and increase customer turnaround.”

The transport costs are considerable and there are lots of regulations.

Modular retail units, portable kiosks and event services.

WHICH COUNTRIES DO YOU EXPORT TO? HOW DID YOU START EXPORTING? Through enquiries from sports stadia around Europe.

HOW HAS THE UKTI OR CHAMBER TEAM HELPED YOU? The team has given advice in terms of business and export regulations for various European countries and, more recently, an Overseas Market Introduction Service (OMIS) for Germany. They have really helped us on our export journey.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS THINKING ABOUT EXPORTING? Thorough market research is absolutely essential. Key document and proposal translations in the language of export country is also really useful and, of course ,utilizing the UKTI office.

HOW DO YOU SEE EXPORT CONTRIBUTING TO THE ECONOMIC RECOVERY? We have seen an increase in sales , which obviously leads to an increase in profits, thus expansion, more employment and therefore tax revenue – leading to economic growth.

WHAT ONE THING WOULD YOU LIKE THE GOVERNMENT TO DO TO MAKE EXPORTING EASIER? More funding!

If you would like to know more about Rapid Retail please go to: www.rapidretail.co.uk If you would like to start your exporting journey with the help of UKTI please get in touch at: internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk/0845 641 1641

WE’D LOVE TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR EXPORTING SUCCESS, PLEASE EMAIL STORIES TO BUSINESSDIRECTION@HWCHAMBER.CO.UK BEFORE AUGUST 1ST. 050

We provide a refreshing, pro-active approach to accountancy. I think we are different in that we offer a fast, professional service but with jargon-free advice.

People, especially small business owners, appreciate that. But we are about more than just numbers. We offer commercial business advice, reports and unique commentaries on issues affecting the industry. To me, it’s about going above and beyond and standing out in what is a competitive market.

WHAT SECTORS DO YOU COVER?

WHAT DO YOU EXPORT?

To Europe, including Spain, France, Italy, Sweden, Germany.

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

Since forming in 2007 we have built our reputation acting for clients across a variety of sectors. The manufacturing, construction and engineering trades are important to us. But then we also look after some niche businesses within the education, creative, retail and medical sectors. Our spread is national, not just local or regional. That’s a vital cog in our growth wheel.

WHAT BASIC FINANCE ISSUES SHOULD BUSINESSES GRASP? It’s amazing how many business owners ignore good financial management practices and stick their accounts at the bottom of a filing cabinet or in a far-flung corner of their laptop. All of our most successful clients have one thing in common – they constantly have one eye focussed on their numbers, understand their profit and loss figures and conduct regular reviews. Those reviews, which should be at least on a monthly basis, are vital as they help business owners understand what’s working and what needs to change. That kind of discipline leads to good cash management and strong margins.

BEST THING ABOUT RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS? Our people are what makes Hayward Wright a great place to work and to do business with. To see our team buzzing and thriving on daily challenges or problem solving is superb. I also love being in a position where I can get under the skin of a client’s business and put us in a position where we can help develop their offering and enhance their financial standing.

AND THE MOST CHALLENGING? I am sure other business owners would agree that it can be very lonely at times running your own business. There can be tough decisions to take. But we’ve built a great team and to have them around makes it all worthwhile. www.haywardwright.co.uk

July/August 2014

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