Business Direction 26

Direction

Business

AS THE DUST SETTLES: GENERAL ELECTION 2015 RESULTS AND REACTION PAGE 34

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

British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

Issue 26 July/August 2015

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FIRSTWORD

WELCOME TO THE JULY / AUGUST EDITION OF BUSINESS DIRECTION

TLES: AS THE DUST SETON 2015 GENERAL ELECTI CTION REA D RESULTS AN

British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

PAGE 34

Issue 26 2015 July/August

rce THE YEAR 2013& Worcestershire Chamber of Comme CHAMBER OF Herefordshire published by n Business Directio

HWCHAMBER.CO.UK Business Direction, Herefordshire & 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 & Worcestershire.

EDITORIAL businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk 01905 673600

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: 01905 673600

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 & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce does not accept any responsibility for any representations made within them.

It is with great sadness that I start this first word with the news that Jack Stephens our Policy and PR Executive died on Tuesday 9 June. He was an outstanding young man who achieved so much. He was well respected and loved by all who met him and his professionalism seen first hand by many. I will miss him, the Chamber and Chamber staff will miss him but more than that the world will be a worse place without him. There is a full tribute to Jack on page 51

First word Chamber Business Awards

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Chamber news

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Business news

10-11

Business news

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Business news

16

Business news

18-19

Chamber events

24-25

Chamber training

30-31

Big Interview

32-33

Cover story

34-35

Visit Herefordshire

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Visit Worcestershire

45

International trade

48-49

Conference Worcestershire

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Jack was heavily involved in our build up to the election. The election is over and we have a Conservative government with a clear mandate. Businesses will be happy to have avoided a protracted period of coalition negotiations and the lack of stability that would have come with that. We look forward to working with the new local MPs and central government to represent local business needs.

Chamber news

51

Charity news

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We have written to all of the local MPs to say congratulations on their election success, but I would like to say particular congratulations to Sajid Javid, MP for Bromsgrove, who has been made Secretary of State at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. It is not only a great personal achievement, but great for the local business community that a local MP will be helping to shape the business and skills agenda over the next five years.

Last word

Sajid was a keynote speaker at the Chamber Business Awards which was held on Thursday 11 June. It saw 400 members of the business community come together at the West Midland Safari and Leisure Park to celebrate local business success and see Essential Supply Products Ltd, Orchard Valley Foods Limited, Apreco Limited, Rock Power Connections Ltd, Kudos Blends, The Royal Grammar School Worcester, West Midland Safari and Leisure Park, Malvern Instruments, The Little Soap Company, 3SDL Ltd and bdht come out victorious in their respective categories.

Finally, I would just like to congratulate Gtech and Prometheus Medical Ltd who both won a Queens Award for Enterprise: Innovation for the fantastic work they do in their respective fields. We have been engaging with the Deputy Lord Lieutenant to promote the Queens Award, so it is fantastic to see two local businesses recognised for their unwavering commitment to innovation and enterprise.

Mike Ashton mikea@hwchamber.co.uk

Business news

57

New Members

58-59

Movers and Shakers

60-61 62

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Our Patrons are:

July/August 2015

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

03

CHAMBERNEWS

CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2015 Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce revealed the winners of the Chamber Business Awards 2015 in association with Sanlam at a glittering event at the Treetops within West Midland Safari and Leisure Park on the evening of Thursday 11 June.

The annual Awards, which highlight the achievements of the drivers of economic growth in the two counties’ economies, are popular with the local business community, as over 440 attendees flocked to the West Midland Safari and Leisure Park for the

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highly-anticipated Awards evening. This year was the Chamber’s fourteenth Awards ceremony and had the theme of international trade, reflecting the Chamber’s desire to publicise the support that the Chamber and UK Trade & Investment can give businesses when trading internationally.

Keynote speaker at the event Sajid Javid, Conservative Member of Parliament for Bromsgrove and Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills and President of the Board of Trade said: “I would like to congratulate the award winners who have worked so hard to grow their businesses and create jobs across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. International trade is a vital part of

our long-term economic plan and it was great to meet local businesses that are branching out into lucrative new markets.

“UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) advisors are working with over 50 medium-sized businesses in this region alone and there is a raft of support out there for businesses that want to start their export journey.”

Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce: “The quality of the entries this year was outstanding and it was a pleasure to celebrate the success of these spectacular local businesses at our annual Awards evening.”

July/August 2015

CHAMBERNEWS

THE WINNERS OF THE CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2015 Overall Winner sponsored by Sanlam: Orchard Valley Foods Limited Exporter of the Year sponsored by Malvern Instruments: Kudos Blends Ltd High Growth Business of the Year sponsored

by Business Growth Service incorporating GrowthAccelerator: Orchard Valley Foods Limited Most Promising New Business sponsored by Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership: Rock Power Connections Ltd Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored by Worcestershire Ambassadors: Emma Heathcote-James Little Soap Company The Sustainabilty Awards sponsored by Resource Efficient Worcestershire: West Midland Safari and Leisure Park Small Business of the Year sponsored by Hewett Recruitment: 3SDL Ltd Commitment to Supporting Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace sponsored by University of Worcester: bdht Manufacturer of the Year sponsored by University of Wolverhampton: Apreco Limited Best Use of Technology sponsored by TechTeam: The Royal Grammar School, Worcester

Mike Henley Photography

Commitment to People Development sponsored

by Sanctuary Group: ESP (Essential Supply Products) Ltd Excellence in Innovation sponsored by Central Technology Belt: Malvern Instruments

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHAMBERNEWS

NEW PATRON MEMBER: UNIVERSITY OF WOLVERHAMPTON Recognised as one of the most entrepreneurial, business-facing universities in the region, the University of Wolverhampton is bringing its award winning business support service to the heart of Hereford’s Enterprise Zone at Skylon Park.

The venture will be based upon the Wolverhampton Business Solutions Centre, at the University of Wolverhampton Science Park, which has won a string of national awards for its work with businesses across the region.

The focus will be on helping businesses to achieve growth by providing a range of activities and services to companies in the Marches area. This includes delivering

the recently won £4.3 million Regional Growth Fund backed Greenshoots Plus grant funding, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, business start-up programmes and workshops plus the delivery of Continuous Professional Development programmes and consultancy services.

companies in the Enterprise Zone and provide a range of skills and technology development workshops. There will be an enterprise hub, hot-desking facilities and bookable boardrooms, providing a valuable resource to businesses from start-up’s to SMEs.

The Centre will establish a business network for

www.wolverhamptonbsc.com

Chamber of Secrets winners

LGG CHARLESWORTH LGG Charlesworth recently played host to the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Manufacturing Forum breakfast meeting at their factory in Malvern.

Nine companies from across Hereford & Worcester enjoyed a factory tour and presentations with an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback to LGG Charlesworth on issues they face within the manufacturing industry.

CHAMBER OF SECRETS WINNERS!!

It was a rainy afternoon in the City of Worcester but that did not dampen the spirits of the 22 teams that took part in the Chamber of Secrets Treasure hunt. Businesses from across the county took on the challenge to solve puzzles and find clues, hidden around the City to lead them to the Black Pear Diamond. Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce hosted the event in what turned out to be an amazing team building afternoon. The Treasure Hunt was excellently organised and every detail was considered, thanks to the main sponsors EML Events.

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After an afternoon of running around and head scratching one team stood out as the overall winners.

The winning team comprised of 3 staff from the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Adam from Pixel Stack & the Advance Events team.

Along with the delight of winning the Black Pear Diamond, each individual won Afternoon Tea in the beautiful settings of The Abbey Hotel, Great Malvern courtesy of Sarova Hotels.

Managing Director Graham Ward said: The format for this event was Charlesworth’s proposal to the Chamber, as we wanted to host a Manufacturing Forum but were not able to host such a large number of visitors as some of the preceding Forums. We therefore proposed a smaller event, but used the reduced numbers in order to have greater engagement of the participants. The result was extremely positive, with the factory tour being the centre of a dynamic two way exchange of information. People involved with manufacturing products have an almost insatiable appetite for improvement, and this style of forum offered the opportunity to have a number of manufacturing professionals sharing ideas in and around our processes.

The feedback from those participating has been extremely positive and I have no doubt that by holding this event we have enhanced the reputation of LGG Charlesworth within the business community.

July/August 2015

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

ACCURATE CUTTING SERVICES – AN UNRIVALLED TECHNICAL PARTNER SUPPLYING CUTTING ANSWERS TO BRITAIN’S MANUFACTURERS APPROACHING FIVE DECADES

and marine engineering, whether cutting from billets, Today, Accurate Cutting Services Ltd is still a private family owned business, but has increased bars, plate or blocks, to sawing fully or part machined components to optimise material yield or improve in size and scope through the acquisition of dimensional accuracy at lower cost.

Birkett Cutmaster Ltd. Now operating from two With knowledge and skills acquired over nearly 45 years main sites, Redditch in Worcestershire, and of service to industry, and by investing in locations best Cleckheaton in Yorkshire, we can offer faster suited to customers, Accurate Cutting Services has won response to customer needs in machine servicing an unrivalled place as a technical partner to leading UK manufacturers. and repairs, and a new larger portfolio of products for UK distribution.

OFFERING THE UK’S LARGEST, MOST VERSATILE Our main products are: n Subcontract sawing services n Bandsaw blade welding and supply of Amada bimetal and carbide tipped blades n Circular saw blade sharpening and supply of Julia HSS and carbide blades n Bandsaw machines from Amada, Pedrazzoli and Soitaab/Friggi n Circular saw machines from Amada and Pedrazzoli n Service, spares and repairs for most make of saws, and especially Amada, Pedrazzoli, Soitaab or Friggi.

The core of Accurate Cutting Services remains subcontract sawing, however using the same saws that we distribute gives us a practical advantage when considering customer requirements for the selection of their own sawing capacity, and also allows Accurate to select the best equipment for our own use.

Its advanced capabilities in reshaping metals have brought added value in a variety of industrial sectors, including aerospace, automotive, construction, energy

SUB-CONTRACT METAL SAWING SERVICE

The company can provide sawing solutions to seemingly intractable machining problems, producing cost-effective answers where other metal machining techniques have failed.

ADVANCED INVESTIGATION AND VALUERECOVERY SERVICES Accurate Cutting Services provides facilities for the investigation of component or fabrication failure, as well as valuable opportunities for reclamation. The company can tackle large items through the skillful use of its heavy duty bandsaw machines, upto 25 tonnes and 2000 x 6000mm capacity.

SOLUTIONS, TOO, THROUGH SAWING-MACHINE AND BLADE SALES AND SERVICE The company applies its over 45 years experience of developing, manufacturing and using band and circular saw blades, and machines, to providing sales and support solutions to their users.

Its sectioning of part-finished or finished forgings, fabrications and castings brings benefits such as low material loss, nil distortion and improved accuracy.

Manufacturing processes are simplified, with reduced production times and lowered direct costs.

With the metals used in today’s manufacturing including advanced alloys with extreme thermal, chemical or mechanical properties, heavy demands are made of blades. The right choice of blade to use, and its proper maintenance, are vital if delivery times, productivity targets and quality standards are to be met.

ADDING MORE VALUE – BY WORKING NEAR TO ITS CUSTOMERS

To provide the best possible service responsiveness, the company’s blade manufacture, grinding and repair, and sawing-machine repair work, are carried around the clock.

The company’s responsiveness to industry’s needs has led to it establishing working cells in Lancashire, Yorkshire, West Midlands and a second Redditch location. Some are within customers’ own premises, reducing WIP and transport costs and optimising response-to-change times.

For more information contact us on 01527 527058 email sales@accurate-cutting.co.uk Address: Crossgate Road, Park Farm Industrial Estate, Redditch, Worcestershire B98 7SN www.accurate-cutting.co.uk

Its services bring the greatest possible value to the customers there. Lead times and costs are low in the JIT working, and communications are ideal.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

NEW THINKING, PRACTICAL ACTION Recent H&W Chamber of Commerce business awards finalists, Fresh Nous are a marketing agency with a difference. Their innovative but practical marketing solutions are achieving results for a growing number of businesses in the region.

Headed up by former blue chip marketers, Laura DuPont and Celia Felgate, Fresh Nous focusses on marketing that really makes a difference; tackling the everyday business challenge of how to attract and retain customers. As champions of customer led marketing they help organisations step into the shoes of their current and potential customers to develop propositions, offers and marketing strategies that fit the needs and desires of their market.

Fresh Nous provide marketing support from proposition development, customer insight and sales channel development through to creative execution, web design and campaign management.

On top of all of that they’re making waves as digital marketing trainers and business mentors as training partners to the National Cyber Skills Centre and, more recently, heading up World Social Media Day activities at The Hive in Worcester.

PENSION FREEDOM FROM APRIL 2015 From the 6th April 2015 the government has allowed any one over the age of 55 to take their personal pension pots as cash if they wish giving them full access to their pension fund. This effectively allows savers the complete freedom about how they generate an income in retirement.

HOW DOES IT WORK? The pension reform means you can take some or all of your pension pot as cash and you will no longer be required to commit to purchasing an annuity or going into Drawdown. Although 25% of any pension fund can be taken tax free, by taking larger lump sums from their pension could come with a hefty tax bill therefore it is always advisable to seek financial advice on the best course of action.

Tel: 0800 193 0711 Email eddie@baylisswm.com www.baylisswm.com Bayliss And Co Wealth Management Limited, 14 Melrose Avenue, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY8 2LE

For further information please contact Fresh Nous on 07779 621151 email chat@freshnous.com or visit www.freshnous.com @freshnous

Fresh Nous

Eddie Hewitt Bayliss & Co Wealth Management Ltd is an appointed representative of Financial Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

67%

OF USERS ARE MORE LIKELY TO BUY FROM A MOBILE FRIENDLY WEBSITE

That’s a quote straight from Google itself. They run more tests than anyone else on the planet when it comes to enhancing the user experience. In other words they want people to find what they are looking for.

What does this mean for you?

It means they want all websites to be mobile-friendly, or they will inflict penalties, which will make it hard for people to find your site.

This is where YOU fit it in...

In most cases, your website is the first form of contact a new prospect has when finding out about your business. You need to be certain that when people do find your website, you convert as many of those people as you possibly can.

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If you think your visitors are finding you on desktop computer? Think again. A recent comScore report says smart phones and tablets combined, now account for 60 percent of all online traffic - up from 50 percent a year ago. And the trend is increasing in a big way.

The point is clear.....

If your site is not mobile friendly, you simply are not staying competitive. This will affect your search engine rankings and your customers may not be able to browse your website on their phones.

The good news?

Getting your website mobile-friendly is something we specialize in. Go to http://media4mobiles.com/lp/ and take our simple ‘free mobile friendly analysis test’ and find out if your website is mobile friendly.

It takes less than a minute....

July/August 2015

FOCUSONLEGAL

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

WRAGGE LAWRENCE GRAHAM & CO: THE MASTERS! Chamber patron and international law firm Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co has been named in the Great Places to Work list 2015 for the 15th consecutive year.

The firm is one of only two organisations to have been ranked every year since the survey began, with the Great Places to Work Institute awarding the firm ‘master status’ in recognition of this significant achievement.

Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co is the only law firm to feature in the list, which includes the likes of Capital One, Microsoft and Hilton Worldwide.

Louise Hewett from Hewett Recruitment with Su Harding of Southco, Kevin Green of Recruitment and Employment Confederation and Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

THE GOOD RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN Industry leader Southco hosted a top level lunch in association with Hewett Recruitment, to promote the importance of achieving the highest standards in recruitment through the ‘Good Recruitment Campaign’.

Some major local employers heard from Kevin Green – Chief Executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, who spoke passionately about the need for providing a positive candidate experience and refining and enhancing recruitment procedures in this candidate short market.

Su Harding HRD Director of Southco, is one of the organisations already signed up to the GRC, she explained “all businesses are continuously challenged with the need to maintain a strong talent pipeline. As Southco continues to grow it is important for us to be

able to source key skills that are increasingly difficult to find. The Good Recruitment Campaign will help us to enhance our recruitment strategy and that will enable us to give a great ‘candidate experience’ and find the right people to help both our business and our people grow.”

Mike Ashton Chief Executive of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce who also supports the campaign, encouraged employers to get behind this initiative and benefit from all the free advice and support on offer.

To hear more about the benefits to your organisation and how to get involved, contact louise@hewett-recruitment.co.uk www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

THE LEARNING BOX - A PLACE FOR INNOVATION AND SUPPORT

The centre is dedicated to offering the community access to digital resources and the training that they will need to help them take the next steps in their employment journey. At the Learning Box, individuals can develop their own career paths, access the latest digital equipment and have the opportunity to take part in personal and social development activities.

The centre will be open to the groups’ customers and the public alike through drop in sessions so that they can access the facilities when it suits them. The Learning Box 010

In the last year, the firm has acted on major instructions in the Midlands including the £307m sale of the National Exhibition Centre, as well as nationally and internationally. The firm was also a double winner at the Legal Business Awards 2015. www.wragge.com

WTPA LAUNCH WORCESTERSHIRE APPRENTICESHIP BRAND The creation of 3m Apprenticeships by 2020 is a significant challenge for any government. In Worcestershire we are bucking the trend and have seen growth in 16-18 yr old Apprenticeships over the last 2 years.

WTPA has been commissioned by the LEP to deliver a School Engagement programme which ensures ALL young people are informed of the opportunities available through the Apprenticeship pathway.

The Herefordshire Housing Group has recently opened a brand new resource centre for the community called ‘The Learning Box @Brierley Court’.

The group have transformed a once under-used community area at Brierley Court, Hereford, into a state of the art resource centre that promotes Total Wellbeing at its core.

HR Director Chris Oglethorpe said: “We’ll continue to build on this success to ensure we’re at the top of our game in terms of employee engagement and recognition.”

will be building up a range of programmes and courses tailored to customer’s needs in the coming weeks.

Andy Robertson, Social Development Team Leader at Herefordshire Housing said; “Through our extensive work with individuals at our Job Club, held at Hinton Community Centre, we had identified clear skills gaps and we wanted to really help individuals tackle these issues. This is where we had the idea for the Learning Box. The Learning Box is a great new facility with the latest digital equipment and we will be launching training courses in the coming weeks.”

Further developments now include ‘Worcestershire Apprenticeships’ which is a new brand that has been developed to promote further growth. The new dedicated website www.worcsapprenticeships.org.uk managed by WTPA provides impartial information, advice and guidance for parents, businesses, schools & individuals. ‘Live’ local vacancies are listed and details of local Apprenticeship events and grants available to businesses like the new Malvern Hills Council grant if businesses are eligible £1000 to support recruitment of an Apprentice.

For more information contact Kim Cook on 07917613342 or Helena Baxter on 07775502211 www.worcsapprenticeship.org.uk

www.hhl.org.uk

July/August 2015

BUSINESSNEWS

AMBASSADORS BOWLED OVER BY NEW MEMBERS Local sporting stars Daryl Mitchell and Moeen Ali from Worcestershire County Cricket Club have recently joined the Worcestershire Ambassadors. The Ambassadors is a membership organisation which drives and supports community initiatives and promotes Worcestershire to the rest of the country and beyond.

AMCO SERVICES INTERNATIONAL EXPANDS ITS NETWORK AND RANGE OF SERVICES THROUGH THE AMCO CHINESE HUB Through its Chinese Hub, AMCO Services is now supplying integrated procurement & sourcing, warehousing and logistics services, offering cost-effective production, storage and supply.

As a holder of key licences allowing the transport of raw materials such as plastic resins into China, AMCO is already a preferred supplier for many OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), first and second tier suppliers and manufacturers such as BMW.

“Our multi-lingual Chinese Hub team comprehensively supports many well-known international manufacturing businesses. Managing the whole process on their behalf, we are able to ensure the quality, consistency and regular supply of key components,” says Brendan Pickering, AMCO’s International Shipping Manager.

“We believe this is an invaluable service for businesses seeking to manufacture in China.”

“With the Chinese Hub, our new warehousing capacity and packaging service, we are really offering the complete international logistics service,” concluded Brendan. www.amcoservices.co.uk

THE PRINCE’S TRUST: HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE The Prince’s Trust local Development Committee have hosted a number of events during 2015 to raise funds and the profile of the charity across Worcestershire.

Events throughout the year have included; a Rugby event in March, a Golf Day in June and fund-raising activities at the Chamber Business Awards.

Mike Ashton explained why he supports the Prince’s Trust: “The Trust is a charity that closely matches the objectives that the Chamber looks to achieve in supporting businesses develop and grow and as such it is great that we can support this charity across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.”

They also hosted their first event in Herefordshire, where Weston’s Cider hosted a Cheese and Cider evening in their Scrumpy House Restaurant.

Other events are being planned for later in 2015.

For more information about events or getting involved sallyp@inspired-partners.com | m: 07812 990545

So far this year the local Development Committee have raised over £10,000 which will all be used to benefit young people in our local area.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Vince Hopkins, Chair of the Worcestershire Ambassadors comments: “Worcestershire is known across the globe as a sporting county and we are proud to have world class talent here on home turf. As an organisation that champions this county, it is only right that our sporting stars should be part of our membership. We are delighted that WCCC Captain Daryl and England player Mo share our philosophy about Worcestershire and have joined the Ambassadors.” www.worcestershireambassadors.com

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IN A REBALANCING ECONOMY As efforts continue to rebalance the scales of the UK’s economy, there has been a surge of creative-minded people looking at innovative ways to develop and market essential goods and services in a responsible manner. They see new solutions are required to address the problems that our society is wrestling with whether it’s a group of carers for the disabled who wish to organise themselves into a cooperative, the entrepreneur who has devised an innovative project, or a parish council looking to capture and distribute green energy.

Community self-reliance and innovative forms of finance are central in these cases. mfg Solicitors are proud to be at the forefront advising on these types of matters – especially those involving social enterprises, the capitalisation of community interest organisations, and specialist charities. It is their passion to see them develop and overcome challenges – hurdles that can be jumped through creative thinking, enthusiasm and the right professional advice. www.mfgsolicitors.com

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FOCUSONRECRUITMENT

HEALTH & WELLBEING ON THE ‘CORPORATE AGENDA’ LOUISE HEWETT In the past measures taken by employers to improve workplace health may have been seen as ‘perks’ or employee benefits.

Today as businesses grow along with demand for high quality employees, more UK employers are putting health & wellbeing on the ‘Corporate Agenda’. A growing number of employees are adopting measures aimed at promoting and reinforcing healthier working practices and lifestyle choices.

The workforce is working longer, an aging working population presents challenges for employers and needs to be carefully considered to be managed successfully.

Healthier people tend to be happier and more productive.

Most adults spend a large proportion of their lives in the workplace and many employers across Worcestershire are choosing to support and play a vital role in improving the health and wellbeing of their people through the Worcestershire Works Well programme.

This may include ongoing workplace health promotion, raising on awareness of particular health issues and supporting employees to make healthier lifestyle choices. The benefits of investing in a range of initiatives include getting employees back to work early, prompt access to diagnosis, early intervention and medical treatment.

One local organisation Orchard Healthcare (previously known as Worcestershire Hospitals Contributors Association) has been around for nearly 100 years providing affordable benefits to thousands of employees in some of the leading employers across Worcestershire.

This low cost example helps employees gain prompt access to treatment in areas like physiotherapy, chiropody, screening, diagnostic procedure and helps with the cost of dental, optical care, day surgery and hospital inpatients grants.

Most employees consider healthcare to be one of the most important and attractive employee benefits.

Surveys have shown that offering health benefits improves retention and lowers absenteeism. Keeping our people happy and well – has got to be good

business and how that is delivered can vary depending on the nature of your organisation. One of Hewett’s latest health initiatives is workplace massage – personally, I can’t wait for mine! www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

Hewett Recruitment can provide your company with a ‘talent health check’ - working with you to ensure you have the right people in place as you grow. Whether it’s a financial wizzard, IT Guru, HR expert or a team of assembly operatives we will give your operation our expert care and support.

Let us ease your growing pains...book your free consultation with one of our qualified specialists.

Contact our Specialist Consultants 01562 69090 or 01905 613413

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louise@hewett-recruitment.co.uk www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

July/August 2015

BUSINESSNEWS

ABT LOADMAC CHOSEN AS ONE OF THE ‘1,000 COMPANIES TO INSPIRE BRITAIN.’ WHAT IS A BRAND?

ABT Loadmac has been highlighted in a report celebrating the UK’s fastest growing and most dynamic small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The business is also among the top 50 best performing SMEs in the country and the UK’s leading cab, chassis and rollbar manufacturer.

The company is aiming to become the first choice for customers in the field, and expect to increase the workforce by 40 percent over the next five years.

Managing Director, Tim Morris, said: “We are extremely proud of our local heritage; therefore we want to give back as much as we can to the community.

“With this in mind, we are planning to incorporate an ABT Loadmac based apprenticeship scheme, focusing on

Tim Morris, ABT Loadmac

developing the skills needed to deal with the exciting challenges within the manufacturing industry.

“We are working in partnership with local schools and colleges to provide opportunities for positive, hard working individuals to develop their skills and experience working with an award winning local company dedicated to developing the lion of the British economy, the manufacturing industry.” www.abtproducts.com

WORCESTER TRAINER AWARDED US ARMY PRAISE Matthew Bennett, Director of MBIT Training Ltd has recently been working with the 504th Brigade, teaching Cyber Security and hoping to make a difference to operations in the EU. The CompTIA Security+ and Network+ courses taught over the past two years are ensuring that US military staff are trained to Dept. of Defence Level 2 standard, assuring their professionalism and knowledge is excellent.

MBIT Training supports arrange of CompTIA and Microsoft training programmes across the UK and works with other partner training organisations to provide trainers for official courses. They provide official course materials and also study guides for IT Training courses and also now offer Project Management certification training. www.mbittrainingltd.com

Dr Michael Paulaitis, Ohio Eminent Scholar and Professor Emeritus, and Prof. Jeffrey Chalmers have been leading the team characterizing the microvesicles.

The work is part of a larger NIH-funded project headed

by Prof. Thomas D. Schmittgen and Prof. Mitch Phelps

SO WHAT EXACTLY IS A ‘BRAND’?

Put simply, a brand is a set of associations that a consumer makes with a company. It’s the identity of the business and the impression it makes, whether through something visual, tone of voice or personality.

Customers buy products but they emotionally invest in brands, creating lasting relationships with your most important stakeholder: the customer. Although you can’t control it, with the right direction you can add incredible value to your business.

AlphaQuad has expertise in establishing brand identity and personality, whatever the industry.

Talk to us about evolving your brand – they’d love to hear from you. www.alphaquad.co.uk

ADVISED IN WORCESTERSHIRE Advised in Worcestershire is a not for profit organisation set up by the Worcestershire LEP, Worcestershire County Council and local businesses with the sole aim of raising awareness of the fantastic professional services that are available in the county across both private and public sectors and referring business amongst each other to keep business in the county.

OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY RESEARCHERS USE NANOPARTICLE TRACKING ANALYSIS (NTA) Researchers in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at The Ohio State University (Columbus, Ohio, USA) are using Malvern Instruments’ NanoSight Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) to study extracellular vesicle yields from different cell culture lines.

It’s not easy to understand what a ‘brand’ is.

To some, it’s a physical commodity made up of visual attributes. Others see it as an emotional entity but are reluctant to allocate time and resources due to its intangible nature.

They firmly believe that most, if not all, business support services and skills are available here, on your doorstep, in Worcestershire. There is no need to go to Birmingham, Bristol or London for quality professional advice support – it’s more convenient, probably considerably cheaper and just as skilled right here at home. in the Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the university. The project aims are to engineer cells to manufacture extracellular vesicles that target the liver, in order to deliver a specific microRNA species capable of retarding the growth of tumor cells. www.malvern.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

If you are a service provider - get your services registered – there is a nominal cost of £100 (25% discount for Chamber Members) which will predominantly go to promoting Advised in Worcestershire and its members www. advisedinworcestershire.com/register www.advisedinworcestershire.com 013

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

CLASSICALLY ENGLISH STILL AND SPARKLING WINES FROM THE FROME VALLEY IN THE HEART OF ENGLAND Our vineyard stands on the banks of the river Frome at Paunton. On a south facing slope surrounded by orchards, hop yards and rolling meadows it is easy to see why the site was chosen over twenty years ago.

Every vineyard has its own distinctive character shaped by the location, the soils and the micro-climatic conditions. Here at Frome Valley we have a warm sheltered site, protected from the prevailing weather systems and a gently sloping well drained silty soil which warms readily and provides fertility and a rich balance of minerals for our vines.

Our grape varieties include Pinot Noir, Bacchus, Reichensteiner, Madeleine Angevine, Schonurger and Rondo. This selection has proved well suited to the

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conditions and benefit from a long growing season and slow ripening.

Our wines are classically English in style with vibrant acidity, a fresh floral nose and clean on the pallet with plenty of fruit. This style of wine fits well with the current interest in lighter styles of wine form cool climate regions.

VINEYARD SHOP Opening Times - April-October: Wednesday to Saturday 11.30am-5pm.

made direct to your home within a few days of your order being placed. Alternatively, you can collect from our Vineyard, our shop is open Tuesday-Thursday: 6am-6pm or by arrangement.

TOURS AND TASTINGS Now available by appointment. Please contact us for more details on 01885 490768 jeanie@fromevalleyvineyard.co.uk www.fromevalleyvineyard.com

ADMISSION FREE for groups of under 10 Our wines can be purchased with complete peace of mind through our secure online shop www.fromevalleyvineyard.com. Delivery will be

July/August 2015

LEGALMATTERS

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

GTECH TAKES HOME ILLUSTRIOUS QUEEN’S AWARD Gtech has been named as a winner of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise – one of the highest accolades for business achievement. They have been awarded the Queen’s Award for Innovation in acknowledgement of their cordless vacuum technology and growth over the past few years.

Commenting on the award win, Gtech founder and CEO, Nick Grey, said: “We feel very honoured to receive a Queen’s Award. The team’s dedication in designing high performance, cordless vacuums and providing outstanding customer service makes me very proud.

We will enjoy this moment and continue to work

PROMETHEUS MEDIAL WIN QUEEN’S AWARD FOR LIFE-SAVING DEVICE Herefordshire business, Prometheus Medical, is celebrating being named as a winner of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation – one of the UK’s highest business accolades.

The Queen’s Award for Enterprise has been awarded to Prometheus in recognition of achieving outstanding innovation for the design and development of the Russell Chest Seal®. The life-saving device has been deployed by emergency and military services at home and abroad with many patients benefiting from its use over the last few years.

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are some of the most prestigious accolades for businesses in the United Kingdom. www.prometheusmed.com 016

hard to honour the award for both our company and customers.”

Since the launch of the AirRam in 2012, Gtech customers have embraced the revolutionary cordless technology which is a crucial part of the success that has been recognised today. From start to finish, the research and development process took two years and a £1m investment to get to the point they could provide customers with a unique cordless vacuum. www.gtechonline.co.uk

RIMILIA SALES DIRECTOR ACHIEVES WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CANOEING MEDAL SUCCESS Team GB Paracanoe athlete for the 200M Kayak Sprint competition and 2016 Rio hopeful Tim Lodge kicked off a big summer ahead by winning a bronze medal at the Sprint Canoe World Cup 2 regatta in Germany.

Tim is employed as a Sales Director by Bromsgrove based global financial technology company Rimilia who have supported him by providing flexibility for him to train around his busy work schedule. This setting has also helped Tim to maintain a good work to life balance and helped him to compete in international events as he begins his journey towards the Rio 2016 Paralympic games.

Tim was born without any ankles in both feet at birth and has had to undertake over 50 operations.

However this has not prevented him in pursuing his sporting passion which is canoeing.

On winning bronze medal at the world championships in Duisburg, Germany, Tim commented: “I had no expectations when I came here. I knew my times were good but was not sure how I would cope with the pressure of competition. I was really nervous on the start line so to get bronze I am ecstatic”. www.rimilia.com

RAPID RETAIL BEST SIGNING OF SUMMER TRANSFER WINDOW Rapid Retail, the stadium and events retail unit specialist, has proven to be one of the most successful signings during the final weeks of the football season.

While European football clubs will be spending millions on new players this summer, they have already been busy recruiting Rapid Retail. The Midlands-based company, together with sister company UK Kiosks, designs, constructs, supplies and fits high quality retail units and kiosks, which are used to sell merchandise and programmes but are also increasingly being utilised as catering units, ticket collection offices and information points. The firm has secured new deals with French Ligue 1 & 2 and Spanish La Liga clubs and is set to announce further contracts later this year. In the last few months Rapid Retail has generated business to the value of half a million pounds.

Together with Spanish club Atlético Madrid, French teams FC Girondins de Bordeaux, Olympique de Marseille, AS Monaco FC and newly-promoted Troyes AC have all signed up the company. Rapid Retail’s units are already in place at FC Barcelona, PSG, AC Milan, www.rapidretail.co.uk

July/August 2015

Magenta Technology Ltd

Specialist business equipment suppliers.

Since 1995 it has developed into a specialist print supplier with brands Sharp and Samsung and has an enviable reputation for looking after their clients.

They have held the ISO 9001 Certification since 2009 which endorses their commitment to customer care and service support, and are also members of the ‘Nationwide Association of Photocopier & Printer Suppliers’ which confirms their ethical company standards.

VISTAGE COMES TO HEREFORD & WORCESTER SME Business leaders all over the UK have been benefitting from the fast growing Vistage peer-group concept for many years……. except Hereford & Worcester, until now!

After a spell starting up a new business in China, Ian Harris has moved to Worcester to setup new local Vistage groups, also known as Private Advisory Boards. Ian has a wealth of experience across company functions and regions of the Globe, and is now using that with Vistage to help Senior Business Leaders in Hereford & Worcester.

Their account managers have a wealth of experience to guide a client through what seems to be a jungle of specifications, prices and finance options and understanding the client’s needs and targets is why their repeat business ratios are so high.

There are many new features, such as printing and scanning on a copier directly from the ‘Cloud’ or on a mobile device which are ideal low cost effective solutions for companies with staff working off site. Many companies would benefit from these features and Magenta sees it as their roll advising existing and new clients of these improvements in their industry.

Magenta Technology Ltd have grown through customer referrals and reputation and can supply equipment nationwide, through their network of Sharp and Samsung partner’s to ensure that a multi-location installation is carried out seamlessly.

Vistage is the world’s leading Executive Peer-Group Organisation for Managing Directors, Chief Executives and other business leaders and has a growing membership of over 18,000 members worldwide. Vistage is the only such organisation where membership cannot just be bought. www.vistage.co.uk/ian-harris www.linkedin.com/in/ian21harris

01432 278296 enquiries@magenta-tech.com www.magenta-tech.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

WARRIORS BACK IN THE BIG TIME

Worcester Warriors Players & Staff

With Worcester Warriors being promoted back to the Aviva Premiership next season, there’s no better time to be involved at Sixways.

Following a dramatic play-off final with Bristol, Warriors ensured it was they who would be part of the lucrative top tier of English rugby next season.

And as the new season approaches, there is everything for you and your business at Sixways.

Located at Junction 6 of the M5 and with excellent road, rail and air links, Sixways Stadium is the perfect venue, providing exceptional services and versatile facilities for large stadium events, business conferences, exhibitions, meetings, weddings, private dinners and parties from two to 1,000 guests.

With parking for 1,000 cars, Sixways has 60 modern meeting and event rooms all with natural daylight and complimentary wifi. Matched with quality catering, and

underpinned by warm, friendly personal service, your event is guaranteed to be a complete success. www.warriors.co.uk

HWGTA SCOOP AWARD AT TRAINING PROVIDER OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2015 WORCESTER SHOW ITS GREEN CREDENTIALS AT RHS MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL May 2015 saw Worcester, Bosch Group, sponsor the hugely popular RHS Malvern Spring Festival at the Three Counties Showground.

Worcester, Bosch Group sponsored the Festival Green which proved the perfect place for visitors to soak up the fantastic atmosphere, be inspired by the stunning show gardens and get some top tips from gardening and food celebrities in the Festival Theatre.

Speaking of the campaign, Sue Pennington, Consumer Brand Manager at Worcester, Bosch Group said: “We have history of working with the RHS, picking up a gold award for our show garden at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2011 so were thrilled to be able to work with the RHS Malvern Spring Festival. The show gives such inspiration to visitors and we hope people thoroughly enjoy the event and are able to pick up some top tips and advice to recreate at home.

“Occasions like this allow us to showcase our high level of innovation too. We had products such as Worcester’s brand new Wave Smart Thermostat on display which allows you to manage your heating and hot water from your smart phone or tablet using a wireless internet connection, putting you in control of your heating.” www.worcester-bosch.co.uk 018

Herefordshire & Worcestershire Group Training Association received the Bronze Award in the Training Provider Prime/Small category (275-500 Apprenticeships) at the prestigious “Training Provider of the Year” awards.

These Awards showcased and celebrated the achievements of those who have exceeded expectations and shown a dynamic approach to training, demonstrated initiative and enterprise, innovation and creativity, and shown an understanding of, and commitment to, the improvement of quality & skills development in the delivery of Apprenticeships.

The Awards offer organisations the chance to be recognised and rewarded for their commitment, hard work, achievements and success in delivering Apprenticeship programmes in England.

Finalists of the Apprenticeship 4 England Training Provider of the Year Award categories were each invited to attend the prestigious black tie award ceremony ,which was held at the Grand Connaught Rooms London , on the evening of 3 March 2015. Winners also received a specially designed trophy at the Awards.

Orchard Valley Foods Diploma Students

ORCHARD VALLEY FOODS TEAM UP WITH WORCESTER BUSINESS SCHOOL FOR TRAINING Orchard Valley Foods commenced their Diploma in Leadership and Management in April, delivered on site

by Worcester University Business School.

Mike Forrester, Managing Director of Orchard Valley Foods has been the driving force in bringing the Orchard Valley Talent Programme to the stage where the 2015 intake of 11 started their first module, Managing and Leading Teams and Individuals, in mid April.

Mike commented: “We were delighted with the interest shown in the Worcester Business School University Diploma amongst the staff. I am passionate about training, and it’s an integral part of the culture of Orchard Valley Foods.

The course will be challenging and stimulating for those taking part, and what they learn will stay with them forever.

While no guarantees are possible, we hope that this gives the business a pool of people who may move into more responsible positions over time.” www.orchard-valley.co.uk

July/August 2015

BUSINESSNEWS

A DIGITAL MARKETING FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH Claire Wozencroft, Managing Director of V8Media, Herefordshire’s leading Digital Agency and Terry Anderson, Technical Director of CorpFilms, Worcestershire’s most well-established Corporate Film Producer, are proud to launch their new partnership. This enables clients of both companies to benefit from a fully integrated online digital marketing strategy including websites, social media, bespoke programming and film production.

The combined goal of both companies is to focus on their internal expertise and working together to deliver high quality work.

BE INSPIRED WITH WORCESTERSHIRE INNOVATION WEDNESDAYS Worcestershire’s businesses are invited to dedicated sessions to further promote innovation in the workplace.

‘Worcestershire Innovation Wednesdays’, are held each month to showcase innovation across Worcestershire, present new developments and opportunities as well as provide an opportunity for like-minded business people to network.

The sessions provide a space for businesses and experts to come together to share ideas and thoughts about innovation and creativity with guest speakers providing specialist insight.

The concept which was initiated by QinetiQ, the experts in defence, aerospace and security, the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Worcestershire County Council has already seen success in recent months following the launch event in February.

Places are limited and businesses are being encouraged to register at the earliest opportunity for the next three sessions, each of which have a different focus: n Sport: 5.00 pm – 8.30 pm on Wednesday 15 July, at Worcestershire County Cricket Club, Worcester n International Trade Opportunities: 5.00 pm – 8.30 pm on Wednesday 19 August, at QinetiQ, Malvern.

Content is key for any website and video is a core part of the content mix. CorpFilms provide a full range consultancy, creative ideas through pre -production, presenters, actors and voiceovers to ensure an excellent result.

Claire of V8Media brings more than 20 years experience from the Internet Industry. V8Media offer a full range of digital solutions and have the core skills and experience in-house.

NEW AWARD SCHEME CREATED BY WORCESTERSHIRE REGULATORY SERVICES Catering businesses that have achieved Level 5 of the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme and want to stand out from the competition can apply for a new award scheme created

by Worcestershire Regulatory Services.

The HEALTHIER CHOICES FOOD AWARD recognises business owners who offer alternatives such as a choice of portion sizes and healthier menu options to cater for customers who are looking to lead a healthier lifestyle.

There are two membership levels, with Gold membership available to those who use some local and seasonal food.

Understanding customer needs can have a positive impact on your business by increasing your customer base, creating a better reputation and differentiating you from other businesses.

Amy Worboys - 01905 822799

www.wlep.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Claire Wozencroft, V8 Media with Terry Anderson, Corpfilms

CorpFilms has produced over 700 company films since 2002, making them one of the most well-established and experienced small to medium production companies in the region, servicing the Midlands, London, Wales, South West.

Visit V8’S Website: www.v8media.co.uk Visit Corp Films website: www.corpfilms.co.uk

SHELSLEY WALSH HILL CLIMB LOCATION FOR AUDI UK LAUNCH Audi UK launched its all-new RS 3 Sportback at the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb where 79 years ago Hans Stuck competed in the 16-cylinder Auto Union Type C and Hannu Mikkola took Best Time of Day in the Sport quattro in June 1986.

Audi’s history with the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb made the venue the ideal place to launch their 367 PS RS 3 Sportback which focuses on pure sports positioning and dynamics.

Held over two days, the RS 3 tackled the famous hill climb, the oldest motor sport venue in the world still on its original course, with journalists getting a rare opportunity to test the most powerful production 5-cylinder engine in Audi RS history.

With over 20 cars available in different specs and colours, the hill climb allowed drivers to experience the car to its full potential including the faster shifting gearbox and faster reacting quattro drive. www.shelsley-walsh.co.uk 019

INSPIRINGWOMENINBUSINESS

HEREFORDSHIRE & WORCESTERSHIRE GROUP TRAINING ASSOCIATION Emma Bennett – Commercial Operations Manager, HWGTA. After completing GCSE’s and A Level’s Emma knew that a University life wasn’t for her. After making the choice not to go University, Emma chose an Apprenticeship as a way forward.

A very ambitious young lady who wanted to be a successful business woman, she knew a degree wasn’t for her at that time, yet did not want that to prevent her future success.

The Apprenticeship path gave Emma the opportunity to gain real life experience, learn from others who we already successful in their fields and still gain valuable vocational and well recognised qualifications.

With strong female role models in her Apprenticeship placement in Debbie Gittoes of Arctic Circle and Jackie Wilmshurst of HGTA, it was this positive experience that drove Emma to change her careers direction and give back some of what she had received. Emma made the bold decision to change from a career in Business and Procurement and take up a role at Herefordshire & Worcestershire Group Training Association, a local Apprenticeship Training Provider and the same one where Emma undertook her Apprenticeship.

Now the Commerce Operations Manager at Herefordshire & Worcestershire Group Training Association, Emma says “Being able to guide young people in their career paths and work with local business to secure future talents is a very rewarding role.

Working with young people to develop industry skills and watch them develop is something I’m honoured to be a part of. Apprenticeships are just as valuable as any other progression route from school or college and allow employers to have a positive influence to shape individuals for the future of their business and industry.” www.hwgta.org 020

HALLMARK HULME ACAS Kate Nowicki is Area Director for Acas East Midlands Kate was appointed as East Midlands Area Director in 2012 and, with over 20 years of experience in Acas, she still enjoys getting stuck in with helping employers and employees to sort out workplace problems.

Kate relishes the challenge of working with people on all sides of a problem to move them forward to a better position. She works with a team of experienced advisers and conciliators helping employers develop effective and positive workplaces. She has a particular interest in health and well-being issues at work, including stress, mental health and resilience.

In addition to her regional responsibilities, Kate is the national lead on employment relations matters in the education sector.

Kate says: “It may seem like a cliché to say that a business’s greatest asset is its workforce. However the reality is that many businesses still do not harness the huge power within their workforce as well as they could. Our experience tells us that employers who engage effectively with employees can help ensure their staff are happier, more motivated and play their part in helping the organisation grow. Everybody in a company should understand why what they do is important - and what happens to the company if they don’t do it.

“Acas has a key role to play in helping businesses in the Midlands develop effective and productive workplaces through good workplace relations.’

For more information visit www.acas.org.uk/eastmidlands

Hallmark Hulme is Worcester’s oldest law firm able to trace its roots to 1790 and is headed up

by Managing Partner, Rebecca Widdowson who took up the role in 2013.

Rebecca was drawn to the legal sector by the variety of work and the interest of dealing with clients face to face and helping them to resolve complex legal issues in a practical way. She worked in Birmingham for a number of years, returning to Worcester in 2001 after the birth of her first son. She returned to work at Hallmark Hulme, a firm she had trained with previously, as Head of Litigation and has remained in that role to this day.

Rebecca’s responsibilities include operational control of the firm but is also heavily involved in the compliance and is the firm’s Compliance Officer. Since becoming Managing Partner, the firm has been awarded the Law Society’s Lexcel accreditation which recognises excellence in the legal sector. The firm has also recently been the first in Worcester to be awarded the Wills and Inheritance Quality scheme accreditation. The firm also holds the Conveyancing Quality Scheme.

‘My focus since becoming Managing Partner has been to use compliance with quality schemes as a way of focusing the firm on delivering quality services to all clients with a mechanism for measuring our successes and improving the experience for clients. Too often compliance is seen as a tick box exercise, but that is not the case here. Compliance can and is used as a means of driving up and maintaining standards and monitoring those standards. Our client feedback and retention shows that it works’.

Of course, the by-product of all of this is that clients are satisfied and they recommend the firm to others. In fact, since the beginning of 2015 99% of our clients who responded to our survey were satisfied with the service we provided The firm offers wide range of services to individuals and businesses. Whenever possible clients will have a partner or senior solicitor delivering the service and many clients appreciate that with experience comes knowledge, excellence and a one-to-one personal service. Hallmark Hulme does not hand work over to case handlers who do not know the client and cannot deliver a quality service.

Client focus is the driver for everything the firm does.

July/August 2015

INSPIRINGWOMENINBUSINESS

AUTO-ENROLMENT

ARE YOU READY FOR IT? As Independent Financial Advisers, Kingfurness & Associates Ltd are able to fully advise and assist with the forthcoming changes. We will complete an analysis of the different business requirements and provide a formal recommendation.

Kingfurness & Associates Ltd will implement a bespoke package, including liaising with the entire workforce on your behalf, which is one of the keystages in the auto enrolment process.

DO NOT delay contact Kathy Twigg at Kingfurness on 07988 763199 or email kathy@kingfurness.co.uk for further information

DELIVERING RESULTS FOR A CHANGE Sally Palethorpe set up Inspired Partners in 2004 to make a difference for businesses large and small; working with companies who want to improve their performance. Sally’s personal expertise lies in making things happen, and her passion is in helping others exceed their expectations. She works to create the best possible results for clients’ organisations and their staff.

What is Auto-enrolment?

As you are aware there have been a number of significant changes introduced by the Government in respect of Pensions.

The new Pension legislation will be complex and challenging for most employers. It will represent increased costs with extra Pension contributions, whilst also providing additional duties with extra communications and record keeping.

Every business has to automatically enrol eligible workers into a qualifying pension scheme if they aren’t already in one and the employer will need to make a contribution towards it. Failure to do so will result in substantial fines!

When is Auto-enrolment?

You will be issued with a ‘Staging Date’ which MUST be adhered to.

How long does the process take?

At least six months, in most cases. Larger employers may take even longer.

Initially Inspired Partners was a one-woman show. This changed quickly and there is now a team of 12 like-minded professionals who each bring different skills and experiences for the benefit of clients. We work across the UK as well as locally.

You’ll need to prepare as early as possible to give yourselves enough time to review and update your pension scheme, processes and systems.

Our clients come to us for a variety of reasons that are all related to change in the business. They may want to define and implement a new business strategy or improve their processes or develop their internal communications or help their employees be more effective in what they do. Our goal is to help businesses deliver successful outcomes that stick.

If you leave it too late, we may not be able to help you get ready in time.

We are now working closely with SMEs through the Business Growth Service.

We have a number of Growth Accelerator coaches and are a registered training provider which enables us to tailor the support we can offer.

Can I delay the ‘Staging Date’?

NO, although you may be able to postpone it for up to 3 months. There are severe financial penalties for any Company that does not comply with the new regulations.

To find out how Inspired Partners can help you with your business challenge please contact us for a conversation.

Email: sallyp@inspired-partners.com Mobile: 07812 990545 www.inspired-partners.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

UPGRADE OF EXISTING LIGHTING AT RR&B GARAGES CLT Electrical & Data provide a full range of electrical services from rewires to new installations operating predominately within the commercial office fit-out and industrial sectors.

RR&B Garages are specialists in the restoration of pre and post war Rolls Royce & Bentleys this means that attention to detail is key to their business and company image.

We were called into their premises after a light fitting had caught fire, we assessed their needs and proposed

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installing LED lighting in that particular area, when the works were completed Ian Pinder the owner and his team were so impressed with the light output of the LED fittings, they asked us to provide a cost for the complete upgrade of the lighting throughout the premises.

On being given the order to proceed we installed new lighting to the office’s, rest rooms, showroom and the workshop areas with the Spray Booth being a key concern, we installed high output LED fittings.

the new and improved lighting from a dull orange colour to a crisp white light improving the energy of the team and of course saving on the electric bill.

Call: 01527 835958 Email: info@cltelectricalanddata.co.uk Visit: www.cltelectricalanddata.co.uk /cltelectricalanddata @clt_electrical

The entire project was completed during normal working hours without any down time for RR&B. On completion Ian and his team were impressed with

July/August 2015

It’s half time in 2015, how is your business performing?

All high performing sports teams and individuals recognise that they cannot achieve the goals they set without a coach to help them. Achieving success within a business is no different.

Having someone from outside your business helping you to spend time working on your business not in your business is proven to deliver better results.

SMEs grow up to 4 times faster with a business coach than without.* As a registered Growth Accelerator coach, I can help improve your businesses performance and you can get Government support on your investment in a coach.*

So if you want the second half of 2015 to return a better performance than the first half and to better prepare for 2016, contact me for an initial free Government statistics show that consultation meeting.

Helping your business grow profitably

ARE YOU OR ARE YOUR EMPLOYEES STRESSED? Following the House of Lords ruling employers have the same duties in relation to stress as they do for any other risks to health and safety.

Stress is a topic that potentially affects every single employer and every employee. The cost of not managing stress can be huge typically sickness, absence from work and lost productivity.

For individual employees stress can lead to serious ill-health and worse case, bring the individual to the brink of suicide.

Research has shown that stress can have an adverse effect on organisations in many ways such as:

Visit www.ga.businessgrowthservice.greatbusiness.gov.uk for details of research and eligibility

*

To find out how we can help your business, contact us to arrange a free, no obligation consultation:

STRESS!

Adrian Russell Consulting Limited

Tel: 07909 688294 | ade@adrianrussellconsulting.co.uk

www.adrianrussellconsulting.co.uk

• • • • • • • •

employee commitment to work staff performance and productivity staff turnover and intention to leave attendance levels staff recruitment and retention customer satisfaction organisational image and reputation potential litigation

Pointers on how to manage stress: • Welcome to Kingsway English Centre in Worcester – we are a training centre for professional business people. We run English language courses and also have apartments to let and meeting/training rooms to hire.

English Language Courses We specialise in English courses for adults, aged typically 30-65 years. High quality courses to suit all abilities and needs, focussing on confidence. Study here in the UK or online via Skype. www.kingsway-english.com

Apartments We have 2 stylish Self-Catering Apartments for rent in a quiet yet central city location in Worcester, UK. Short-term lets in multiples of one week. Ideal for professionals and other visitors to Worcester. www.kingsway-apartments.com

Meeting/Training Rooms We have a variety of room sizes available to hire from 2 - 20 people; ideal for private meetings, away days and training events.

Tea, coffee and catering facilities available if required. We are located 200 metres from Worcester Foregate Street train station. www.kingsway-meetingrooms.com

•

• • • • • •

Ensure there are sufficient resources available for employees to do their job.

Support staff by helping them prioritise or renegotiate deadlines, adjust work patterns to cope with peaks Give staff some flexibility or control over their own work.

Give support and encouragement, even if things go wrong.

Hold regular meetings and one-to-one talks to discuss pressures.

Create a culture where members of the team trust each other.

Make sure staff have clearly defined roles.

Ensure there is a structure in place so employees are informed and consulted.

If you need help in managing health, safety related matters in your workplace, then contact Phil at Prem Safety UK Ltd on 07791481864 or email phil@premsafety.com

Kingsway English Centre Telephone +44 1905 619877 Email: info@kingsway-english.com 40 Foregate St, Worcester WR1 1EE

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHAMBEREVENTS

WOMEN’S BUSINESS CONFERENCE IN ASSOCIATION WITH THORNE WIDGERY AND BORWELL Friday 18 September 9.30am – 2.30pm | The Abbey Hotel, Malvern £35.00+VAT Members, £45.00+VAT Non-members Herefordshire and Worcestershire business people are invited to attend our second Women’s Business Conference this September.

Meeting at 9.30am for coffee and networking then an opportunity to hear from some inspirational business women This fantastic event provides an opportunity for you to build your network of business

CLARE MARCHANT – Chief Executive of Worcestershire County Council Clare will be presenting on Driving, Delivering and Dancing around your handbag – reflections on life as a Chief Executive".

contacts, share information about your services and products, increase your bottom line and do it in an entertaining and non-threatening environment. After hearing from our first set of speakers we will then reflect over a two course lunch before we go into the second session of the day to hear from more inspirational women..

CLAIRE GALER Managing Director Derriere Equestrian Ltd Claire Galer is the founder, Managing Director and designer of Derriere Equestrian®. Her knowledge, coupled with her strong drive, has led to the launch of this new, innovative and essential product range for riders.

SUE PILLAR – Associate of the Leadership Trust Sue Pillar will be presenting an inspirational talk about Women in the Army and her personal impact in the Intelligence Corps including tours in Afghanistan and Iraq.

CHAMBER EXPO EVENT IN ASSOCIATION WITH HEWETT RECRUITMENT The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce will be holding its next Business Expo in association with Hewett Recruitment on Thursday 8th October from 9am-3pm at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern.

The exhibition is one of Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s biggest business events attracting over 125 stands and over 1000 visitors it is a great place to: n Make new contacts n Catch up with friends and business contacts n Tell people about your business n Meet local suppliers Kick-starting with a networking breakfast that will feature a Keynote Speaker in Innovation at 8.00am before the official opening of the exhibition at 9.30am, the October Expo will include the following elements:

n The Innovation Zone Sponsored by WInnCo this Zone will include details of innovation, funding and collaboration within Worcestershire. Specifically focused on the Worcestershire Innovation Wednesday events which have been running on a monthly basis with a key focus on themes such as Agri-tech, Cyber and Advanced Manufacturing. n Malvern Festival of Innovation As part of the week long programme the Festival of Innovation will be teaming up with the Chamber of Commerce Business Expo to deliver a day devoted to instilling innovation in the heart of your business. Whether you need to protect intellectual property, secure funding, start a new venture, or grow an existing enterprise, this session focuses on how to think creatively in your business operations. Join us for a free-to-attend programme of talks, case studies and our exciting entrepreneur elevator pitching session in front of a panel of experts.

n Business Support Zone sponsored by Worcestershire.

Business.Central Find out what business support and advice is available for your business. n Networking Zone sponsored by SME Solicitors The Networking Zone is a lively hub of activity at the Expo, with free tea and coffee provided to all attendees by WaterCooler World as well as a number of tables and chairs around which attendees sit and do business, arranging to meet up with associates at the event.

An exhibition stand (including one free breakfast) costs members £275+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 01905 673600

OUR SPONSORS

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July/August 2015

CHAMBEREVENTS

NETWORKING CALENDAR JULY - AUGUST 2015 July 2015 HR Professionals Conference in association with Hewett Recruitment Thursday 2 July - 9.00am-3.00pm Bank House Hotel, Bransford, Worcester, WR6 5JD £35.00+VAT Members and £45.00+VAT Non-members Maximise Your Membership Event in association with ISO Quality Services Friday 3 July - 8.30-11.00am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, County Ground, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ FREE event Kidderminster Networking Breakfast Tuesday 7 July - 7.30-9.30am Stone Manor Hotel, Chaddesley Corbett, Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY10 4PJ £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Hereford Women’s Business Forum in association with Thorne Widgery Accountancy Ltd Tuesday 7 July - 9.30-11.30am Thorne Widgery, 2 Wyevale Business Park, Kings Acre, Hereford HR4 7BS £10.00+VAT Members and £20.00+VAT Non-members Evesham Networking Breakfast Wednesday 8 July - 7.30-9.30am The Vale Golf and Country Club, Hill Furze Road, Bishampton, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 2LZ £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Food and Drink Forum Wednesday 8 July - 8.00-10.00am AJ & CI Shell Windmill, Hull, Harewood End, Hereford HR2 8JS FREE and exclusive to Food & Drink producers Droitwich Breakfast Tuesday 14 July - 7.30-9.30am St. Andrews Town Hotel, St Andrews Drive, Droitwich, Worcestershire WR9 8AL £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 15 July - 7.30-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, Hereford HR4 7RW £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Women’s Business Forum in association with borwell ltd Thursday 16 July - 9.30am-12.00pm St. Andrews Town Hotel, St Andrews Drive, Droitwich, Worcestershire WR9 8AL £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Worcester Evening Golf Thursday 16 July - 4.00-8.00pm Gaudet Luce Golf Club, Middle Lane, Hadzor, Droitwich, WR9 7JR £20.00+VAT Members and £25.00+VAT Non-members Bromsgrove Networking Lunch Friday 17 July - 12.30-2.30pm Holiday Inn Birmingham-Bromsgrove, Kidderminster Road, Bromsgrove B61 9AB £20.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Ross on Wye Networking Breakfast Monday 20 July - 7.30-9.30am TBC £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Worcester Networking Breakfast Thursday 23 July - 7.30-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, County Ground, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members

August 2015 Redditch Networking Breakfast Tuesday 4 August - 7.30-9.30am Redditch Golf Club, Lower Grinsty, Green Lane, Callow Hill, Redditch B97 5PJ £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Malvern Networking Breakfast Wednesday 5 August - 7.30-9.30am Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 3ET £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Malvern Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Tuesday 11 August - 6.00-8.00pm Anupam, 85 Church Street, Great Malvern WR14 2AE £17.50+VAT Members and Non-members Worcester Networking Breakfast Thursday 13 August - 7.30-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, County Ground, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 19 August - 7.30-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, Hereford HR4 7RW £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Droitwich Quiz Night Thursday 20 August - 6.00-8.00pm St. Andrews Town Hotel, St Andrews Drive, Droitwich, Worcestershire WR9 8AL £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

Introducing Stanbrook Abbey Tucked away in the beautiful Worcestershire countryside, Stanbrook Abbey is a stunning hotel boasting wonderful features and facilities guaranteed to impress you and your party. Previously home to a closed order of Benedictine nuns, this Grade II architectural gem offers an oasis of calm, providing the ideal environment for you to obtain your business objectives.

Boasting Pugin designed architecture, this stunning venue has recently undergone a ÂŁ5 million refurbishment, carefully conducted to ensure that original features are maintained and enhanced, whilst new additions to the hotel are in keeping with its exquisite design.

Now boasting 57 glorious bedrooms, a luxurious new bar and an extended reception and welcome area, Stanbrook Abbey is a dream destination for functions, events and corporate retreats.

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The spectacular Callow Great Hall, with its stunning vaulted ceiling and carefully designed stained glass windows, can accommodate 190 delegates in theatrestyle. With 19 function rooms to choose from, all fully equipped with modern AV facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi, Stanbrook Abbey will have a room perfect for your requirements.

With 26 acres of grounds, large events and team building activities can be easily accommodated and are only restricted by your imagination. We offer a selection of exciting activities including wine tasting in our stunning Wine Cellar, Laser Clay Pigeon Shooting, Segway Safari and even an exciting Treasure Hunt! A mysterious cloaked Benedictine Monk will set the scene before your group is split into teams and led to their secret chambers where they will find information July/August 2015

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

“Stanbrook Abbey proved to be a brilliant choice for our function.

The meeting rooms, facilities, and staff were all outstanding.” packs, coded messages and time lines. Scripted clues and map co-ordinates will lead the teams to secret locations across Stanbrook Abbey to undertake exciting activities including abseiling and sword fighting!

After a productive day, enjoy an incredible meal carefully prepared by our talented Head Chef. Using fresh ingredients from local farms and the Vale of Evesham, our team delivers incredible dishes that are

just as inspiring as the surroundings they are served in.

Whether you want to impress potential clients, reward your staff, motivate your sales team or take your directors on a trip they will never forget, we have it all.

Conveniently located just five miles from the M5 and 40 minutes from Birmingham International Airport, Stanbrook Abbey is wonderfully accessible and just waiting to surpass even the highest expectations. ◆

Book your amazing event today StanbrookAbbey.com ◆ 0330 333 7 222 ◆ Hello@StanbrookAbbey.com Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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advert for Chamber magazine 2015_Layout 1 18/02/2015 15:27 Page 1

Boost Your Brand in 2015 • Huge range of Promotional Goods • to suit all needs, tastes & budgets • Quick turnaround & short runs on • many products from our catalogue • Everyday Value & Executive Gifts

YOUR PRINT D I S P L AY & PROMOTION SPECIALISTS

• Reliable Service, Quality Products • Help with your artwork from our team • We help Businesses, Charities, Unis, • Schools, Colleges & many others

01886 812160 • www.sbprint.co.uk

Auto Enrolment –Are you ready?

The Government introduced new laws from October 2012 that will have a significant impact on every employer in the UK. Key facts

How we can help

n Employers will, for the first time, be required to automatically enrol eligible employees into a pension scheme.

As independent financial advisers with 14 years experience we are familiar with the challenges that businesses will face in light of these new laws and regulations.

n Employers will, for the first time, be required to pay pension contributions for any employees who join and stay in the pension scheme. n The Pensions Regulator will enforce these new regulations. n Even if you have an existing workplace pension scheme, you may have to make changes so that it complies with the new laws. n Employers can either use their own pension scheme to comply with these new laws or rely on a Government built scheme - the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) scheme. n Don’t leave taking action until the last minute six months planning will ideally be needed.

We can: n Help you review your existing workplace pension scheme to make sure it will comply with, or exceed, the new requirements n Establish and integrate a new scheme n Assist with the communication to workers and integration of the scheme with your payroll.

The information provided is based on our current understanding of the relevant legislation and regulations and may be subject to alteration as a result of changes in legislation or practice.

Contact Mark Young or Beth Fortey on 01432 820710 Email: mark@padstone-fm.co.uk Email: beth@padstone-fm.co.uk Authorised and regulated by the Financial conduct Authority

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July/August 2015

FOCUSONLEARNINGANDDEVELOPMENT

WHOSE JOB ARE YOU DOING TODAY?

Why aren’t leaders leading and managers managing? And what’s the impact on business productivity? asks Liz Watkins-Young, Director of Rubus. Here’s her take on why...

“I was coaching a leader earlier. Recently elevated into a leadership role, he’s making the mental shift from simply managing a team and their delivery to leading growth within the business. He’s doing a great job. How do I know? Because he’s already taking action to coach a manager who’s struggling to have an impact in the business. Of course, both are ridiculously busy in their day jobs yet my client is taking time out with me to explore how he can empower one of his reports to be better able to deliver the required results.”

I hear regularly complaints from leaders and managers “under pressure”. Then I hear what they’re actually doing on ultra-busy days: dealing with e-mail, inconclusive meetings and checking the work of others.

How did they get trapped on this speeding treadmill?

YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO BOT I read a LinkedIn article recently (“It’s Not Management’s Job to Nurture Talent”) which tabled the phrase “Bringing Out Talent” or BOT. The author’s contention is that it’s everyone’s responsibility to BOT. Not the manager’s, not HR, not Learning & Development – it’s every colleague’s responsibility to BOT in everyone else. While intellectually I get that concept and embrace the likely business benefits (innovation, excellence in

customer handling, opportunity to increase sales), it’s unlikely to happen in most businesses.

n staff trust that you’re doing your leader/manager job – removing barriers that stand in their way

In most businesses BOT is a manager’s and a leader’s responsibility. But how can leaders and managers realistically BOT when they’re overloaded, doing work they’re employing others to do? It’s a crazy waste of time/money, it destroys staff morale and it’s a huge inhibitor of productivity. Per worker (including managers), Britain is now around 1/5th less productive than the G7 average, and 40% below the US.

n you remember to BOT - bring out their talent and use it to full effect.

STOP DOING THEIR JOB - PRODUCTIVITY DEPENDS ON IT!

01684 878067 | www.rubus-services.com

Let’s get leaders and managers back into proper roles - setting direction, ensuring clarity around goals and performance, effectively solving problems. “Yes”, you say, “and how are we going to break out of our current cycle?”

A good start is to learn to really trust your team and yourself – trust them, not control them; trust yourself to manage and lead – so you can delegate with confidence.

Then learn to listen and observe – to what’s being said and done; what’s not being said and done – so you can re-focus on the results you want.

If it feels like you’re on a speeding treadmill, STOP and examine who else’s job you’re actually doing today.

Then get back to basics. Orientate your team(s) around results and create the climate in which you can all perform to your best. If you’d like help with that you have my number.

Rubus specialises in improving performance from people. Our powerful programmes transform the way teams perform together and re-model role effectiveness in individuals. Bespoke programmes draw on ‘The Five Behaviours of a Cohesive Team’, ‘The RESULTs Programme’, DiSC Profiling and ‘The Work of Leaders’.

THE RESULTS WILL COME Results come when: n you and your staff are clear about the commitments made to the business n staff are trusted to get on with the job, treated as adults not children

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

John McConnachie

Liz Watkins -Young

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CHAMBERTRAINING

SAFETY COURSES WITH CHAMBER TRAINING

FOCUS ON: DAWN HARDMAN

HEALTH AND SAFETY Health and Safety suffers a rather bad press.

From bureaucratic decisions blamed on it, to fears and threats of litigation due to unforeseen complications.

Whilst the thought of taking days out of the office to attend a Health and Safety course may not fill you with inspiration, do you know at which point these threats and decisions become a justifiable Health and Safety argument?

Your responsibility to staff and customers is an important consideration and not one that can be taken lightly or without a sound knowledge to back it up, in order to justify with facts, the decisions that you make.

Our courses are, as always, interactive and engaging as we teach and discuss with our delegates a practical and reasonable approach.

Health and Safety courses running at the Chamber are: IOSH Working Safely – A grounding in the essentials of Health & Safety. IOSH certificated course IOSH Managing Safely –Designed to get you up to speed on the practical actions needed to handle health and safety in your teams. IOSH accredited course Emergency First Aid at Work – Suitable for low risk employers in meeting their legal obligations for minimum first aid provision in the workplace.

Fire Marshal Training – A general fire safety and awareness course for staff who may, as part of company fire procedures, have additional responsibilities for fire safety in the workplace Please see page opposite for training dates.

QUOTES FROM PAST COURSES....

THERE WAS A LOT OF INTERACTION WITH EVERYONE WHICH MADE IT HUMOROUS BUT ALSO KEPT THE SERIOUSNESS OF WORKING SAFELY. ENJOYABLE, TAUGHT WELL, FOOD EXCELLENT! VERY GOOD COURSE, WOULD LIKE TO DO MORE. MOST ENJOYED THE RELAXED ATMOSPHERE, WAS MADE TO FEEL WELCOME AND IT WAS VERY INFORMATIVE, I LEARNT A LOT DAWN WAS GREAT! VERY INFORMATIVE, CONTENT WAS GOOD. MOST EXCELLENT, THANK YOU!

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Dawn is Head of HR at the Chamber of Commerce, also responsible for health and safety for the organisation.

She has many years experience in health and safety management and is a Technician level member of IOSH (Institute of Occupational Health and Safety). She successfully delivers the IOSH Managing Safely and Working Safely courses both at the Chamber offices and at company’s own premises and to date over 100 delegates have successfully completed IOSH training.

Her health and safety professional experience includes health and safety process owner for IBM and more recently has successfully supported a number of local SMEs providing advice and consultancy services in respect of their internal health and safety programs.

She has also designed and delivered her own range of health and safety courses specific to clients’ needs, including induction programs and risk assessment.

Dawn has helped a number of clients design and implement their health and safety program providing advice and support in respect of policies and supporting procedures.

Dawn’s delivery style is a mixture of presentation, group discussions and interactive work

July/August 2015

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 2015

Colour & Grey

JULY COURSES Writing Effective Marketing Copy Wednesday 1 July 2015 - 09.30- 13.30 £80+ VAT for Members, £100+ VAT for Non Members Managing Performance in the Team Thursday 2 July 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+VAT for members, £188+VAT for Non Members Tariff Classification Explained Thursday 2 July 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

SEPTEMBER COURSES CONTINUED Advanced Guide To Export Documentation Wednesday 9 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

Colour & White

Basics of Export Documentation Thursday 10 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

OCTOBER COURSES Writing Effective Marketing Copy Thursday 1 October 2015 - 09.30-13.30 £80+ VAT for Members, £100+ VAT for Non Members Export Licensing Wednesday 7 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

Mentoring in the Workplace Friday 11 September - 9.30- 16.30 £150+VAT for members, £188+VAT for Non Members

Trading With the USA Thursday 8 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

Managing Agents & Distributors Tuesday 7 July 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

Managing People in the Team Tuesday 15 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Role of the Team Leader Tuesday 13 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Fire Marshal Training Limited spaces Wednesday 8 July 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £80+VAT for Members, £100+ VAT for Non Members

IOSH Working Safely Tuesday 15 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Incoterms Wednesday 14 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

Advanced Import Procedures Thursday 9 July 2015 - 09.30-16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

Assertiveness and Confidence at Work Tuesday 22 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Advanced Microsoft Excel Friday 10 July 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for members, £188+VAT for Non Members Effective use of Social Media Friday 10 July 2015 - 09.30-13.30 £80+ VAT for Members, £100+ VAT for Non Members An Introduction to Digital Marketing and PR Tuesday 14 July 2015 - 09.30-13.30 FREE to Members, £100+VAT for Non Members Intrastat & Trading In The EU Tuesday 16 July 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

Global Marketing and Importance of Understanding Language and Culture Tuesday 22 September 2015 - 09.30- 13.00 £100+VAT for Members, £125+VAT for Non Members

Letters of Credit Thursday 15 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250 +VAT for Non Members Successful Telesales Wednesday 21 October 2015 - 09.30-16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Direct Shipping Wednesday 23 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

AEO Awareness Wednesday 21 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

Creating a Customer Care Culture Thursday 24 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Customers Compliance Thursday 22 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

VAT on Exports Thursday 24 September 2015 - 10.30-13.30 £150+VAT for Members, £175+VAT for Non Members

Employment Law Update Friday 23 October 2015 - 10.00-15.00 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Introduction to Excel Friday 25 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Intermediate Excel Friday 23 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Intermediate Microsoft Excel Monday 7 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for members, £188+VAT for Non Members

IOSH Managing Safely Tuesday 29 September- Friday 2 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £495+ VAT for Members, £595+ VAT for Non Members

Fire Marshall Training Monday 26 October 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £80+ VAT for Members, £100+ VAT for Non Members

IPR Tuesday 8 September 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £225+VAT for Members, £250+VAT for Non Members

Conducting Effective Team Appraisals Tuesday 29 September - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Intermediate Microsoft Excel Thursday 30 July 2015 - 09.30- 16.30 £150+ VAT for members, £188+VAT for Non Members

SEPTEMBER COURSES

Key:

Train the Trainer Thursday 29 October 2015 - 09.30-16.30 £150+ VAT for Members, £188+ VAT for Non Members

Chamber Training courses delivered to the highest standards by professional and highly qualified trainers and consultants High quality import and export training courses specially designed to help local businesses trade profitably and effectively

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

031

BIGINTERVIEW

WORCESTERSHIRE LOCAL ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIP

Mark Stansfeld, Chair of the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, with Robin Walker MP backing the campaign to promote apprenticeships in Worcestershire.

WHAT IS THE LOCAL ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIP AND WHAT IS ITS POSITION WITHIN THE LOCAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY? The Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), one of 39 in England, is responsible for creating and delivering growth and jobs in the County. This is achieved through a partnership approach with business, local government, Higher and further education working together with a common, shared purpose – to create the conditions for growth in the economy, increasing prosperity and encouraging people to start-up businesses, invest and locate in Worcestershire.

As such, the WLEP is responsible for developing and delivering Worcestershire’s 10 year Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) and is working to: create an extra 25,000 jobs, increase Gross Value Added (GVA) by £2.9bn and contribute towards the delivery of 21,000 homes by 2025.

Initiatives include providing the right business support, investing in infrastructure and skills through the Worcestershire Growth Deal as well as raising the profiling of the County as a world class place to do business regionally, nationally and internationally.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE LOCALISED BODIES SUCH AS LEPS WORKING WITH LOCAL BUSINESS? The WLEP is supporting private sector growth, innovation and enterprise and job creation which can only be successful by working closely with local businesses.

The Business Board provides a sounding board for advice and feedback to the Executive Board to ensure that the voices of local businesses are heard, as well as being a conduit to facilitate wider engagement with leaders in the business, public and third sector communities. The Worcestershire geography provides a partnership with the opportunity to deal with local Worcestershire Parkway, a new mainline station proposed for Norton, which is allocated funded by the Worcestershire Growth Deal.

issues and priorities, by creating a focus.

The WLEP takes every opportunity to meet with local businesses and hope to welcome even more of you at the WLEP Annual Conference on 13 November 2015.

WHAT FUNDS DO YOU HAVE AND HOW ARE THESE BEING USED? LEPs are Government funded organisations and are a conduit for European and Local Growth Funds which are allocated for specific programmes.

Worcestershire LEP is responsible for a £60m EU programme which provides specific grant funding to support businesses and the training of people with a focus on moving individuals into work.

The WLEP has also been awarded £54.2m from the Government through the Worcestershire Growth Deal to be spent between 2016 and 2021 on agreed economic projects to develop infrastructure and skills as outlined in the Strategic Economic Plan (SEP). This includes a range of schemes for example to improve: skills, rail connectivity, traffic flow around key employment sites and increase access to Superfast Broadband.

A SUMMARY OF THE LEPS FIRST FIVE YEARS IN OPERATION The latest figures released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) earlier this year showed that Worcestershire was the third fastest growing economy in the UK between 2008-2013, only outperformed by London and Oxfordshire.

The LEP is driving the agenda to improve skills and has reported a four-fold increase in apprentices since 2011 with 10,000 people now participating in an apprenticeship programme.

There has also been significant business investment in Worcestershire with at least £600m of private sector investment secured since 2012 contributing to a £1.2bn increase in GVA – a good measure of the productive power of the county in terms of the value and quality of products and services. This is well ahead of planned progress towards the target of £2.9bn increase by 2025 with at least another £200m already committed to be invested before December 2017.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS MOVING FORWARD/ THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR ETC. In summary, the Worcestershire LEP is very much focused on delivery of the 10-year Strategic Economic Plan.

The Growth Deal funding is starting to be available to us for the agreed programmes of work, calls for EU funding started earlier this year in March and we continue to work with partners to raise the profile of Worcestershire to increase investment.

I would encourage business to be kept updated by visiting Worcestershire LEP’s website at www.wlep.co.uk, where you can register for a monthly e-newsletter or Twitter users can follow us at @worcsLEP.

GARY WOODMAN, Executive Director, Worcestershire LEP 032

July/August 2015

BIGINTERVIEW

PARTNERSHIP SECURES £40M INVESTMENT BOOST FOR HEREFORDSHIRE AS GROWTH HUB SET TO LAUNCH

Western Power Distribution is one of the latest investors to become operational on Skylon Park, the Enterprise Zone of the Marches LEP

More than £80m of investment for projects being launched this year and next has been secured for the region by the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). And more than half of that Government funding is headed for Herefordshire.

The LEP’s inaugural Growth Deal was a result of the submission to Government of the partnership’s Strategic Economic Plan (SEP). This was put forward by the private sector-led board, which includes the leaders of the local authorities of Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, following consultation with businesses on what barriers needed to be addressed to ensure growth and job creation.

Submitted in 2014, it outlined a vision for accelerating growth in the region, so it could unlock land for development, support for infrastructure projects and create jobs. Fast forward 12 months and the Marches LEP, and its Enterprise Zone at Skylon Park in Rotherwas, is already making huge strides towards its vision of a prosperous Marches, and a vibrant business base.

Driving this work forward alongside the LEP board is new LEP Director Gill Hamer. She said delivery on Growth Deal projects was already under way.

“First up for 2015/16 is the £33.m Hereford City Centre Transport Package. This is an important package of schemes including a new link road, which will enable a major mixed-use development.

“This regeneration programme aims to regenerate a significant area of brownfield land to the north of Hereford city centre and will create hundreds of new jobs and homes. It will also assist in delivering retail, leisure, tourism, employment, housing, and other development.”

The Marches Growth Deal, part of a £12 billion long-term programme to revitalise local economies, also saw £70.6m earmarked for pipeline projects in the Marches from 2017 to 2020, including the £27.6 South Wye transport package to support the development of Enterprise Zone.

Both the Marches LEP and central Government have recognised the impact that a A49/A456 link road would have on helping to develop the potential of the Enterprise Zone at Skylon Park. The South Wye package will reduce congestion thanks to the link road, but importantly it will unlock potential leading to the creation of hundreds of jobs and homes.

Another project being delivered this year is the Marches Growth Hub – a one-stop-shop for business support, with a virtual hub website due for launch in the summer.

Gill is no stranger to the world of business support.

A former Operations Director with Business Link, she joined the LEP from the Manufacturing Advisory Service.

“Supporting business is a LEP key priority, and the Marches Growth Hub will be the single point of access for businesses in this region looking for support, whether this be advice on taking on staff or information about finance schemes on offer.

Communities Secretary Greg Clark joined Partnership leaders to sign the new Growth Deal. From left, Greg Clark MP, Chairman of the LEP Graham Wynn OBE, Tony Johnson, Leader Herefordshire Council, Kuldip Sahota, Leader Telford & Wrekin Council, Keith Barrow, Leader Shropshire Councillor

“We’re working with Herefordshire Council and the Herefordshire Business Board, and our Shropshire and Telford partners, on this initiative, which is part of a national drive by Government to put LEPs at the heart of streamline business support activity.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

“The Marches Growth Hub will integrate national support with locally tailored activity including both public and private sector business support options.

Currently there are a myriad of ways businesses can access support and this needs to be streamlined. Our virtual hub will see businesses benefit from services that meet their changing needs and demands.”

Gill says that success will come by engaging with businesses of all sizes, and from all sectors.

“We need to target all of our businesses – not just the big employers or the start-ups. We need to bring on board our bigger companies, these are our business champions and they have supply chain opportunities which can benefit our SMEs – which make up more than 95 per cent of our regional economy.

It is important that we listen to our large companies, ask them what they need in order to grow and create jobs – whether that’s support for skills to ensure potential employees are work-ready or infrastructure investments to get goods and people from A to B. But we also need to look at how we can bring some focus to making sure business needs are serviced locally, that the support being provided is relevant for our SMEs as well.”

The Marches Growth Hub will be officially launched in September 2015.

GILL HAMER, LEP Director 033

COVERFEATURE

AS THE DUST SETTLES: GENERAL ELECTION 2015 RESULTS AND REACTION Thursday 7 May saw 46,420,413 people, or 66.1% of the eligible electorate, take to polling stations across the country to cast their vote in one of the closest run and potentially seismic General Elections in memory.

After five years of Coalition rule, and seemingly inconclusive polls for the entirety of the election period, many predicted another hung parliament and the prospect of protracted coalition talks. However, the actuality was that 36.9% of voters voted for the Conservative party, handing them 331 seats and a slim majority of 12 in the House of Commons. This represented a gain of 24 seats, many in key marginal battlegrounds with Ed Miliband’s Labour party.

Labour, who received 9,347,304 (30.4%) votes, suffered largely by losing key marginal’s and the rise of UKIP, who received high volumes of support in traditional Labour strongholds, tipping the balance of power in the favour of the Conservatives in certain cases. That withstanding, the single biggest contributor to Labour’s downfall was the rapid ascension of the Scottish National Party (SNP), who, off the back of the independence referendum last year, gained 50 seats, becoming the single biggest party in Scotland by a distance, whilst removing what has been the backbone of Labour’s support since its inception.

With referendums firmly at the forefront of people’s minds, an unlikely alliance of UKIP and the Green Party has emerged to demand that a conversation over our voting system – First Past The Post – occurs, with a view to holding a referendum to change to system of proportional representation. With combined votes of 5,038,712, yet only one seat in the Commons, it is expected that the calls for electoral reform will come to the forefront of the smaller party’s agendas over the coming years.

Locally, the results provided consistency and stability, with seven of the eight former MPs returning for another term. The only change was in Mid-Worcestershire, where Nigel Huddleston, the Conservative candidate, won a resounding majority after Sir Peter Luff stood down after a 23 year career in Parliament. Sajid Javid, Robin Walker, Karen Lumley, Harriett Baldwin, Mark Garnier, Jesse Norman and Bill Wiggin will all represent their respective constituencies for the next five years after winning commanding majorities.

The Conservative party will command a clear majority in the House of Commons and businesses will be reassured that we do not have to go through a period of protracted uncertainty whilst a coalition agreement is formed

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Commenting on the results, Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We congratulate David Cameron and the Conservative Party on their election victory. The Conservative party will command a clear majority in the House of Commons and businesses will be reassured that we do not have to go through a period of protracted uncertainty whilst a coalition agreement is formed.

“Businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire want to see a pro-growth, pro-enterprise programme – building on the positive steps taken, and lessons learned, during the Coalition years.

The Conservatives now have a clear mandate to take bold and important decisions, and must use it to help British businesses invest and grow. In return, business stands ready to work with the new government to deliver prosperity, jobs and sustained economic growth.”

July/August 2015

COVERFEATURE

BROMSGROVE

WORCESTER

MP: Sajid Javid PARTY: Conservative MAJORITY: 16,529 POSITION: SECRETARY OF STATE FOR BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS

MP: Robin Walker PARTY: Conservative MAJORITY: 5,646 POSITION: Private Parliamentary Secretary to Education Secretary, Nicky Morgan

“I was honoured to be returned as Member of Parliament for Bromsgrove and to be appointed as Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Business is the lifeblood of our economy and essential to our country’s growth. It is because of British business that the UK is now the envy of Europe with record high employment and a thriving business community. For every job lost in the public sector, five have been created by the private sector.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to keep working with Worcester’s thriving business community to make the city an even better place to do business. I look forward to continuing to drive the growth in apprenticeships, supporting employers & the skills agenda. Key infrastructure improvements, business rates reform and linking schools with businesses are all high on my list of priorities.”

REDDITCH MP: Karen Lumley PARTY: Conservative MAJORITY: 7,054 POSITION: Private Parliamentary Secretary to Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt “The growth of businesses is crucial if we are to bring more jobs and opportunities to our area. As a business owner myself I know how difficult running your own company can be. I am keen to help businesses wherever I can and hope to be able to support many more over the coming Parliament.”

As both a local MP and as the Business Secretary I look forward to continuing to back businesses of all sizes, and to supporting our young people to get the skills they need for their future in British industry”.

MID WORCESTERSHIRE

WYRE FOREST

HEREFORDSHIRE NORTH

MP: Nigel Huddleston PARTY: Conservative MAJORITY: 20,532

MP: Mark Garnier PARTY: Conservative MAJORITY: 12, 871

MP: Bill Wiggin PARTY: Conservative MAJORITY: 19,996

“Everyone benefits from a vibrant business community that creates jobs and pays taxes to finance our public services. I look forward to helping create an environment in which local businesses can truly thrive.”

“Supporting businesses in Wyre Forest has been my key priority for the last five years and will be my key priority for the next. I hope to build on the successes we have had so far and make sure that Wyre Forest will become a byword for business success.”

“I am proud to have been re-elected for North Herefordshire and I am confident with a Conservative majority Government we will see local businesses thrive and jobs being created.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

I will continue to champion North Herefordshire and ensure local businesses receive the support they need to grow.”

WEST WORCESTERSHIRE MP: Harriett Baldwin PARTY: Conservative MAJORITY: 22, 578 POSITION: Economic Secretary to the Treasury “I would like to thank everyone who put their confidence in me to represent the area once again.

The voters backed my priorities for West Worcestershire and I pledge to campaign for them - even higher employment, 21st Century infrastructure and fairer funding for our local schools.

This result is also a clear vote of confidence in David Cameron and the Conservatives and the long term economic plan to eliminate the deficit reach full employment and rebalance the economy.”

HEREFORD & HEREFORDSHIRE SOUTH MP: Jesse Norman PARTY: Conservative MAJORITY: 16,890 “The Conservative party’s decisive victory means that Britain has a new Government committed to cutting red tape while rewarding hard work and enterprise. In Herefordshire, independent businesses form the backbone of the local economy. I will carry on fighting for key services, such as fast broadband and better mobile reception, to help our businesses thrive.”

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WORLD CLASS WORCESTERSHIRE IS A GREAT PLACE TO DO BUSINESS, WORK, LIVE AND VISIT At Worcestershire County Council we’re proud of our track record of embedding sustainability across the services we provide. We have a clear plan achieving results when it comes to cutting the carbon we produce, working towards our ambitious aim of cutting emissions by 30 per cent by 2016 when compared to 09/10 levels.

The way we design our public buildings has long had a focus on sustainable design incorporating features for climate change adaptation and future proofing with the environment at the forefront of thinking. Examples such as the Bishops Wood Centre, opened in 1993, and more recently The Hive; the county’s ground-breaking library and history centre which started welcoming visitors in 2012.

The county boasts 220 Eco-Schools (the most registered in the country), with more than 50 flying the Green Flag recognising commitment to helping the environment and two Ambassador Schools and the benefits of sustainable travel have been promoted for many years, 036

particularly in Worcester and Redditch where targeted Choose How You Move campaigns have pushed alternatives to single car use such as walking, cycling and car sharing.

We work with our partners, Herefordshire Council, and have successfully reduced the amounts of waste sent to landfill, which is not only better for the environment but also saves the taxpayer millions of pounds. This has been achieved through increased recycling and successful behavioural change programmes such as Master Composter and Love Food Hate Waste programmes. To find out more visit the two counties one-stop hub for all things waste prevention www.letswasteless.com While the last few years have brought challenges due to funding reductions from Central Government, Worcestershire County Council’s commitment to sustainability hasn’t waned, in fact quite the opposite has been the case. Innovative projects such as the Better Use of Accommodation have helped rationalise our property, saving substantial amounts of money but also saving energy and cutting carbon emissions.

A ‘Spend to Save’ energy efficiency fund is also in operation across the council and schools, that offers

interest-free loans repaid from financial savings. To ensure annual cost is neutral, a payback period of 10 years is in place, with all savings over and above kept by those running the project. To date 77 schemes have been completed, which include a number of insulation and solar PV installations, saving an estimated 395 t/ CO2 per year (based on completed projects).

Put simply, the County Council is committed as ever to protecting and enhancing the environment.

Something recognised by the fact that Environment is one of the authority’s key corporate priorities, sitting alongside Health and Wellbeing, Children and Families and, importantly ensuring Worcestershire is Open for Business.

Unlocking barriers to economic growth and building a World Class Worcestershire as a place to do business, live and visit, is a vision a number of organisations, including the Local Enterprise Partnership and Chamber of Commerce, are very much behind.

Part of that is ensuring business is supported in working in the most sustainable ways, not only coming from the perspective of corporate social responsibility and wellbeing, but also because it makes good business sense.

July/August 2015

FOCUSONGREENVISION

The County Council and its partners, through Worcestershire.Business.Central (www.business-central. co.uk), has offered support for a number of years.

A fantastic example is the Resource Efficient Worcestershire project, which, working with Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has been helping SMEs to be smarter when it comes to effective energy and resource use.

Businesses across the county have benefitted since the scheme, part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, began. A total of 162 businesses have been supported since 2012 with grants of more than £430,000 provided to reduce energy and waste.

The result of this means the county and the businesses will benefit from a reduction of 1,350 tonnes of carbon each year – the equivalent of 2,298 tonnes of waste sent to landfill. Although the scheme has now finished, a bid for further funding to continue has been made, so it’s a case of ‘watch this space’ for anyone who hasn’t already taken advantage.

A key piece of sustainable infrastructure currently being put in place is the installation of 12 new rapid charge points for electric vehicles. Placed strategically around the county it’s hoped the facilities will help continue to stimulate interest amongst consumers in this growing sector where technology is developing fast making the travel option more and more attractive. Already in operation are rapid charge points at: n Evesham Leisure Centre n Webbs of Wychbold, near Droitwich n County Hall, Worcester

n Chateau Impney, Droitwich n Weaver’s Wharf, Kidderminster n Greenlands Business Centre, Redditch n Abbey Stadium, Redditch n Evesham Country Park A key piece of support on offer comes through the Supporting Worcestershire project, operated by the Energy Saving Trust on behalf of Worcestershire County Council through funding obtained from the Department of Energy and Climate Change. It offers free support and cashback (through a grant) towards the cost of PAS2030 certification for small businesses in Worcestershire.

Grants of up to £1,837 are available towards the cost of a certificate and Easy Green Deal certification support.

UPCOMING EVENTS INCLUDE: 30TH JULY: Introduction to renewable technologies and the RHI – Redditch

16TH SEPTEMBER: Small Business Masterclass: Tendering & Procurement - Bidding for public sector contracts – Worcester

Becoming PAS2030 certified could help your business to:

16TH SEPTEMBER:

n Access more opportunities to win work in the energy efficiency and renewable energy market

Small Business Masterclass: Collective working - is it an opportunity for my business? – Worcester

n Enter new markets and access new supply chains n Streamline your business systems n Improve your business reputation n Improve quality management and reduce risk n Gain competitive advantage To register interest and request an application form simply email supportingworcestershire@est.org.uk.

17TH SEPTEMBER: Safe Working at Height – Bromsgrove To find out more visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/ businesses/support-programmes/ worcestershire

In addition, businesses can also develop their skills and take advantage of networking opportunities through a series of free events. These include meet the buyer events and CPD training workshops.

The remaining charge points will be installed by the end of summer and will be located at: n St Martin’s Gate car park, Worcester n Crowngate Car Park, Worcester

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Book your place today for Worcestershire Innovation Wednesday ‘Worcestershire Innovation Wednesdays’ provides the opportunity for businesses and experts to come together to share ideas, identify innovative business processes and present new developments with like-minded business people.

The network has monthly sessions that are open to anyone who wants to come and share their creative thoughts and ideas to improve business practices.

Book your place today for one of the next two sessions:

Sport: 5.00 pm – 8.30 pm on July 15, 2015, Worcestershire County Cricket Club, Worcester

International Trade Opportunities: 5.00 pm – 8.30 pm on August 19, 2015 QinetiQ, Malvern.

Places are limited and must be booked in advance. Book your place today via the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership’s (WLEP’s) website at www.wlep.co.uk where you can also register for WLEP’s e-newsletter to be kept updated of future sessions and other news for your business.

Worcestershire Innovation Wednesdays were launched in February 2015 by QinetiQ, the experts in defence, aerospace and security, the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Worcestershire County Council.

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July/August 2015

FOCUSONGREENVISION

THREE INITIATIVES WORKING TOGETHER TO SUPPORT BUSINESSES IN THE SHIFT TOWARDS A LOW CARBON ECONOMY IN THE MARCHES AND WORCESTERSHIRE: METNET

BUSINESS FUTURES FORUM

RESOURCE EFFICIENT WORCESTERSHIRE

The marches environmental technology network (metnet) is a business network funded by the local councils and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). It provides support for environmental companies (and companies looking to diversify into the sector) across Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Telford & Wrekin and Shropshire.

The Business Futures Forum based in Herefordshire provides a network of support and information for local businesses looking to increase their efficiency and profitability whilst enhancing their sustainability and reducing their environmental impact.

The Resource Efficient Worcestershire programme helps small and medium size enterprises in Worcestershire to save money on energy, water, waste and raw material costs, to increase business profitability and reduce their environmental impacts.

Forum meetings are held quarterly and focus on a range of topics such as energy, resource efficiency, transport, waste, operational efficiency, grants, funding and legislation.

The support includes:

Benefits include: a chance to network with like-minded businesses, learn from case studies, share ideas and practical solutions, improve competitiveness and cost effectiveness, and reduce CO2 emissions, environmental impact and waste.

n Quarterly workshops on themes such as lighting, heating systems, environmental technologies and waste reduction.

Environmental companies include any business offering environmental goods or services, including waste management and recycling. Businesses diversifying into the sector can include plumbers and electricians, construction and insulation companies, manufacturers or anyone wanting to enter the environmental technologies supply chain or provide an environmental product or service. metnet provides a range of free events including business briefings, networking and exhibiting opportunities and aims to position its businesses as the key suppliers of low carbon products, services and solutions across the Marches and Worcestershire.

Membership is free and open to any business. For more details or to book your place on a forthcoming event visit www.herefordshire.gov.uk and contact eem@ herefordshire.gov.uk or call 01432 383262

metnet also has a website on which businesses can promote themselves and a regular email bulletin detailing events, funding, tenders and other business opportunities.

n A free resource efficiency review (12 hours support) n Grants to implement the recommendations

Visit www.business-central.co.uk/rew for more information or call 01905 822833 Resource Efficient Worcestershire is a partnership between Worcestershire County Council and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

To find out more about what metnet has to offer from businesses that have accessed our services, visit www.met-net.co.uk and watch our ‘video case studies’ on the homepage or phone 01584 879745.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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FOCUSONGREENVISION

WHAT IS ISO 14001?

ISO 14001 is an internationally accepted standard that outlines how to put an effective environmental management system in place. It is designed to help businesses remain commercially successful without overlooking environmental responsibilities. An ISO 14001 system provides the framework to allow you to meet increasingly high customer expectations of corporate responsibility as well as legal or regulatory requirements.

n Meet legal obligations to win greater stakeholder and customer trust n Avoiding adverse publicity n Integration with other standards such as ISO 9001 Quality Management and OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health & Safety Management

Organisations can no longer ignore their responsibility for managing the impact of their activities, products and services on the environment. Increasingly stringent legislation, customer pressure and a general growth of concern about environmental matters, produce an overwhelming case for environmental performance improvement.

J. W. Allcock Management Consultancy offer expertise in the design, development and implementation of management systems to recognised standards such as 14001:2004, Environmental Management Systems, ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Systems, AS9100 Aerospace, Space and Defence Quality Management Systems and OHSAS 18001:2007 Health & Safety and offer services to complement this core package.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ISO 14001?

The use of ISO 14001 can demonstrate an innovative and forward-thinking approach to customers and prospective employees. It can increase a business’s access to new customers and business partners. In some markets it can potentially reduce public liability insurance costs.

Other benefits: n Better environmental management reduces waste and energy use n Reduction in use of resources and operating costs n Improve operational efficiency and business performance n Demonstrate compliance to expand your business opportunities

WHAT WE OFFER ?

J. W. Allcock Management Consultancy has been established since 1991. We are totally committed to the satisfaction of our clients’ requirements and work closely with UKAS Accredited Assessment Bodies.

Advisory Service (MAS) for most ISO 9001, 14001, 18001 and AS 9100 projects and are registered on the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) National Consultants Supplier Register where you are able to view profile and feedback.

CASE STUDY J. W. Allcock Management Consultancy assisted ICONICS UK Ltd in the implementation ISO 14001 Environmental Management System. The project to implement ISO 14001 into their existing Quality Management System took four months to complete and included completing a full review of their business processes and environmental impacts, development of legal register and auditing of the system until the external assessment which they passed at the first attempt.

ICONICS now monitor their buildings energy use through their own GENESIS64 software and have seen a reduction in energy usage over the first 12 months since implementing the management system.

Richard Allcock We have a wealth of experience in implementing ISO 14001: 2004 Environmental Management Systems, ISO J. W. Allcock Management Consultancy 9001: 2008 Quality Management Systems and AS 9100 T: 01886 821 379 | M: 07801 888 058 Richard 1/2/11 14:48 Page 1 E:Allcock richard@jwallcock.co.uk Aerospace Quality Management Systems and over a W: www.jwallcock.co.uk wide range of industries.

FUNDING J. W. Allcock Management Consultancy are able to put forward projects for funding through the Manufacturing

J. W. ALLCOCK Management Consultancy

RICHARD ALLCOCK M.C.Q.I.

Consultant

Ecotec, developing innovative renewable energy solutions designed to save your business money.

Mobile: 07801 888 058 E-mail: r.allcock@virgin.net www.jwallcock.co.uk

Greenfields, Ravenshill Lulsley Worcestershire WR6 5QP Tel: 01886 821379 Fax: 01886 821484

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Call today For a FREE site appraisal and quotation info@ecotecservices.co.uk

www.ecotecservices.co.uk Ecotec Services Ltd. Orchard Street, Worcester WR5 3DW

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July/August 2015

FOCUSONGREENVISION

RECYCLE MORE WITH CLEARAWAY Based in Droitwich, Clearaway provides commercial recycling and waste collections to over 1000 businesses across Worcestershire and the West Midlands. We are a locally owned and managed company who care about delivering cost effective and environmentally compliant waste services for our customers.

As legislation continues to place greater obligations on business we are continuing to adapt our services. A new regulation came into effect on 1 January 2015 which places a duty on waste collectors to collect separate fractions of recyclable materials.

The regulations state that separate collections of at least paper, metal, plastic and glass are required where they are technically, environmentally and economically practicable (TEEP) and appropriate to meet the

necessary quality standards for the relevant recycling sectors. The aim behind the Regulation is to achieve a higher quality of recycled products in the UK.

We do provide separate collections for glass and food waste. This allows a better quality of recycled products to be achieved.

At Clearaway we provide a mixed recycling, glass and general waste service for our customers. The mixed recycling material is sorted at a high quality Material Recycling Facility (MRF), which meets the TEEP requirements. All that we ask from our customers is that only ‘allowable materials’ are placed in the mixed recycling container. Allowable materials are paper, cardboard, clean soft plastics, cans and plastic drink bottles. It excludes glass and food and definitely no black bags.

If you feel that you can recycle more please contact us at sales@clearaway.uk.com or 01299 252510 and one of our specialist advisors will complete an audit of your wastes and recommend the best option.

Award winning sustainable energy specialists in the three counties

Solar PV

Demonstrate your green credentials Control energy costs and generate energy from your roof or ground for 15 - 18% ROI

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Proven technology to achieve 80% efficiency guarantee for 25 years+ Full support with incentive payments

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Solutions for transferring equipment between buildings for landlords and tenants Products and aftercare to compliment your existing systems

Heat pumps

Capital free options available

EV accessories

T: 01432 860 644 E: energy@caplor.co.uk www.caplor.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Inspired

Sustainable

Improvement

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FOCUSONGREENVISION

The team loads excess gorse into the trailer at Carding Mill Valley to help prevent fires and flooding in the local area.

From £59+VAT Cheaper than a skip

LOCAL ACCOUNTANTS’ APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY Local accountants Whittingham Riddell have a strong commitment to recognise and improve upon the impact its activities have on the environment and the communities in which it operates. A central part of this approach, which is incorporated into the firm’s wider CSR Policy, is to help preserve and protect our planet to ensure future sustainability.

For instance, Whittingham Riddell operates a paperless office system, where all staff are encouraged to view documents electronically instead of in paper form. Where documentation is printed, waste products such as empty ink cartridges are recycled.

Whittingham Riddell have five office locations across Shropshire, Herefordshire and Wales. To avoid unnecessary travelling, the firm actively encourage its staff to car share or use conference calling where possible.

The firm is committed to sourcing supplies and services from sustainable sources in the local area. This covers everything from office supplies to using local caterers and venues for events. Not only does this help to reduce carbon emissions by goods and services not travelling so far, keeping trade local also helps to nurture and sustain the local economy.

Outside the office, Whittingham Riddell gets involved with various community projects as part of the firm wide Make a Difference Day Initiative. The Ludlow Team recently cleared overgrown gorse from Carding Mill Valley, which would have otherwise posed a significant threat to the environment in terms of fire and flooding, and are already looking forward to their next project which will be held at Whitcliffe Common in the coming few weeks.

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We take the hassle out of clearing away your unwanted stuff. We can visit your site and tell you what can be reused and rehomed. We then make all the arrangements for the items to be either donated to local charities and social enterprises, or recycled. We can de-logo your workwear and any other branded items. We arrange everything and provide a full paper trail to guarantee you are completely waste compliant.

[Low and Behold] have helped us reinvest resources we no longer needed back into the local community” Ruth from Amey We provide a cost-effective way to get rid of the stuff you don’t

Ourwant aim that is to issend landfill, so get in touch find out bothnothing good fortothe environment and localto charities. more reuse recycling Weabout take theour hassle out of and clearing away yourservice unwantedfor stuff.businesses.

We can visit your site and tell you what can be reused and rehomed. We then make all the arrangements for the items to be either donated to local charities and social enterprises, or recycled. We can de-logo your workwear and any other branded items. We arrange everything and provide a full paper trail to guarantee you are completely waste compliant.

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Our aim is to send nothing to landfill, so get in touch to find out more about our Registered waste Carrier, Broker, Environment Agency Registration Number: CB/KM3287UG reuse and recycling serviceDealer. for businesses.

July/August 2015

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

PERSONALISED FREE IT AND MARKETING ADVICE FOR YOUR BUSINESS (SERIOUSLY, IT’S FREE) Herefordshire Council’s CREATE project can offer free IT and Marketing help and advice at your place of business to help you move forward.

CREATE (Connecting Rural Enterprise for A Transnational Economy) has already helped many new and established businesses in Herefordshire.

Anna Wilde is Managing Director of PerfectArc Ltd and based in Ludlow.

Richard Evans is Director of Nominas UK Ltd and is based in Hereford.

Frances Davison is Director of Business Angel (Hereford) Ltd and is based in Whitney-on-Wye.

Jack McCaughtrie is Director of Core Tree and is based in Bewdley.

Ben Kinnaird is Director of Rather Inventive and is based in Cirencester.

A free Review session involves expert analysis of your business and provides realistic actions to move you forward.

Advisors have also assisted with fixing live problems, general IT queries and setting up analytics reports.

CREATE advisors are local professionals with experience spanning Social Media, Web Design, Imaging, Booking Systems, Open Source Software, E-book Publishing, Retail, Logistics and Cloud Computing and more.

Sam from Samantha Thomas Interior Design recently had a review and ‘found it very informative and learnt so much’ Sam felt the advice she received at the review will really help her to promote her business.

To book your CREATE: Review please email Nadine at hereford@ create-nwe.eu or telephone 01432 270706.

Herefordshire Wildlife Trust

Getting Outdoors with Herefordshire Wildlife Trust With the sun shining across the beautiful Herefordshire countryside, this month might be the time to look for an opportunity to ditch the suit and don some shorts – if only for the day. Volunteering with Herefordshire Wildlife, as either an individual or corporate team, is the perfect excuse to get outdoors while contributing to the conservation of our beautiful county.

Our 55 Nature Reserves include spectacular

wildflower meadows, ancient shady woodlands, lush floodplain meadows bordering meandering rivers, traditional orchards and undulating heathland commons. These landscapes all require hands on work to continue the traditional management which has shaped them through generations and centuries.

In the summer, this may mean cutting and raking meadows for hay or helping to maintain access through our reserves – stabilizing paths, hanging gates or constructing board walks.

Full details can be found on our website or get in touch by calling

01432 356872 or email enquiries@herefordshirewt.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

While once this work would have been undertaken by small holders, farmers and commoners, today our reserves are managed by work parties of volunteers and staff who continue with the seasonal patterns of tasks. Not only does this maintain vital habitats for our regional wildlife, and wild spaces for people to enjoy, but the teamwork and camaraderie links the teams with both the landscape and each other.

Find your place in nature this summer with the Herefordshire Wildlife Trust!

www.herefordshirewt.org 043

VISITHEREFORDSHIRE

GLEWSTONE COURT AWARDED 2 AA ROSETTES FOR CULINARY EXCELLENCE Glewstone Court is an iconic Georgian manor house just outside Ross-on-Wye. With its sweeping driveway shaded by a 300 year old cedar tree, stunning spiral staircase, porticoed landing and stunning views across Herefordshire, Glewstone Court is undoubtedly also one of Herefordshire’s most idyllic wedding and event venues. New owners Gary and Karen Homewood are keen to share their passion for food and entertaining and their love of Glewstone Court with regular and new visitors as well as local people who have yet to visit.

commented: “We are immensely proud of the entire team at Glewstone Court. Focusing on our core values of people, passion, integrity and creativity combined with delivering superb customer service to make every moment matter has ultimately led to this well-deserved achievement. A special thanks and congratulations to our Head Chef Vicky Lyons for her outstanding culinary creativity!” www.glewstonecourt.com

Recently, Glewstone Court Restaurant was awarded 2 AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence. Gary and Karen

POSTON MILL PARK STRIKES GOLD IN VISITENGLAND AWARDS

VISIT HEREFORDSHIRE AND HEREFORDSHIRE & WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN ONE PLACE

IBSA BLIND FOOTBALL EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Poston Mill Park has been awarded Gold in the Holiday Village/Park category at the prestigious VisitEngland awards for Excellence 2015 ceremony.

thePoint4 at The Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford is delighted to host the IBSA Blind Football European Championships Saturday 22 to Saturday 29 August 2015.

A Gold award is the highest VisitEngland can bestow for Excellence in Tourism and Poston Mill Park was presented with theirs at the glittering awards ceremony on Monday 11 May in Gateshead.

Blind football is fast paced and as entertaining as its sighted counterpart. Played 5-a-side at international level, the only sighted player on the team is the goalkeeper, who cannot leave his area.

James Berresford, VisitEngland’s Chief Executive commented: “We have received hundreds of applications of an exceptionally high quality making this competition for a Gold Award extremely tough. Poston Mill Park has raised the bar for Excellence for others to aspire to and I warmly congratulate them on their exemplary contribution to tourism in this country.” www.bestparks.co.uk

With some exceptional teams taking part in the tournament, including reigning European Champions Spain and the heavily fancied France and Germany, we are sure England supporters will want to get behind Head Coach Jon Pugh, Captain Keryn Seal and the rest of the lads as they fight for a place at the Rio Paralympics 2016.

This is a family friendly event, with tickets priced accordingly. Most days are split into two sessions with a minimum of two matches in each session. If you have never experienced blind football come along, tell all your friends and, most of all, have a good time.

Visit Herefordshire and the Hereford office of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are moving into The Town Hall in Hereford and will be in place by Wednesday 1 July.

The new office provides the advantages of being able to work together within a central location and in close proximity with Hereford BID who will share the same office, connecting tourism and business together in Hereford.

After the success of Destination Worcestershire’s link with Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, the model will be replicated and build on this model with input from the Tourism industry in Herefordshire to improve business and tourism in the County.

Mike Ashton Chief Executive of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce said: “We are looking forward to the next step in this ideal partnership in a central location with all interested parties working together being vital to the continuation and growth of these services.” www.visitherefordshire.co.uk

Tickets are available at http://tickets.rncb.ac.uk/ 044

July/August 2015

VISITWORCESTERSHIRE

A TASTY EVENT IN WORCESTER CITY THIS SUMMER New this year is Worcester’s Foodie Fortnight, a celebration of the city’s fantastic food and drink businesses from Monday 27 July to Sunday 9 August.

Look out for delicious sample menus, offers and activities. As part of the fortnight, Food, Glorious Food will be top of the menu in Worcester on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August as the Worcester Foodie Festival comes to Worcester City Centre. The festival which is a celebration of all things tasty will feature more than 40 stalls selling a mouthwatering selection of specialist food and drink. There will also be the opportunity to see some cookery demonstrations in the High Street or children and adults alike can get involved with some hands on workshops and tasting sessions. So, if you want to save yourself the washing up or appreciate a pint of refreshing ale, cider or juice whilst listening to

LOCAL MARKETING AGENCY, MODUS, BECOMES STRATEGIC PARTNER TO DESTINATION WORCESTERSHIRE Destination Worcestershire are delighted to announce that Modus have been confirmed as Strategic partners. The partnership sees modus and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, come together to help Destination Worcestershire in their mission to support the growth and development of local tourism businesses.

Modus, as a local full service-marketing agency, is excited to be involved in the project and keen to support the marketing activities, which are centred on attracting visitors to Worcestershire. Based in Worcester City Centre since 2006 modus is already a marketing and communications ambassador for local businesses working on design and branding projects for Love Worcester Heritage Festival, Fortis Living, Worcester BID Christmas Campaign, Worcester Foodie Festival, Worcester Warriors, Worcestershire County Cricket Club and many more.

Worcestershire, over the past 5 years, has grown to have the third fastest growing economy in the entire country. Now, Destination Worcestershire and Modus, are committed to driving forward the visitor economy even more. With their combined knowledge, experience and skills the partnership will no doubt ensure that the business community, no matter the size of those businesses, and the county as a whole will benefit profusely.

VISIT WORCESTERSHIRE TOURISM AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE 2015 Are you a tourism business or do you know a tourism business that deserves recognition?

live music in High Street, why not stop by and find some tasty treats to enjoy at home, including cheeses, pies, meats and sweets. Stalls are open from 10am to 5.30pm on Saturday and from 11am to 4pm on Sunday. www.worcesterbid.com/foodie

EUROPEAN WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS As the world marks just over a year to go until the Rio 2016 Paralympics, Friday 28 August to Sunday 6 September will see Europe’s leading wheelchair basketball nations descend upon Worcester to battle it out for both the prestigious European Championship title and a highly coveted place at the Brazil Games.

With everything to play for at the stunning University of Worcester Arena and a range of great value tickets available for all 73 action-packed matches – split across 33 sessions, the European Championships offers the West Midlands an unmissable opportunity to get closer to the action and support the very best in Europe.

Indeed, Great Britain will be amongst the 19 teams competing in the continent’s premier wheelchair basketball event with the GB Men’s Team the defending European Champions and the GB Women’s Team the current Bronze Medal holders.

The European Wheelchair Basketball Championships forms part of UK Sport’s National Lottery funded #EveryRoadtoRio programme, which targets events that will support the nation’s athletes in their preparation and qualification for the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

To deliver the event, British Wheelchair Basketball (BWB) has also teamed up with key partner the University of Worcester with invaluable support from Worcestershire County Council, Worcester City Council and Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership.

Tickets to this world class event are available from the Championship website www.euro2015.uk or through the Box Office on 0844 888 9991.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

If so, entries are now being accepted for the Visit Worcestershire Awards For Excellence 2015.

The Awards sponsored by the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, showcase the best in Worcestershire tourism, with the Winner and Highly Commended from each category being put forward to the 2015 VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

The winners will be announced at the Visit Worcestershire Awards For Excellence Awards ceremony as part of the Annual Tourism Conference at St Andrews Town Hotel, Droitwich on Thursday 15 October 2015 from 2.00pm-5.30pm.

Last year Brockencote Hall won an award at the Visit Woircestershire Awards for Excellence and went onto win a national VisitEngland award.

Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce said: “Awards are an excellent way of raising your profile, enhancing staff morale and celebrating what is good about your business. I urge any business that is in the Tourism sector across Worcestershire to get involved and enter.”

Award categories and sponsors:

BEST TOURISM EXPERIENCE Sponsored by Heart of Worcestershire College

BEST HOTEL AWARD BEST BED AND BREAKFAST AWARD BEST SELF CATERING AWARD BEST SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AWARD BEST BUSINESS TOURISM AWARD Sponsored by Modus

BEST TASTES OF WORCESTERSHIRE AWARD Sponsored by Worcestershire Ambassadors

BEST FESTIVALS AND EVENTS AWARD To enter download an application for at www.visitworcestershire.org/awards or email tourism@visitworcestershire.org

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FOCUSONHEALTH

Wellbeing at Work with Kathy Scott from Hands on at Work massage therapies

Does your job involve sitting or standing for long hours?

GOOD HEALTH NATURALLY Good Health Naturally is a 10 strong multi-disciplinary team of 4 Chiropractors and 6 complementary therapists with well over 100 years of experience between them, who work with patients or clients of all ages and also have the important ability to offer a customised team approach to those people with more complex problems.

As well as McTimoney Chiropractic – a very precise, light and gentle approach to chiropractic care, Good Health Naturally also offers Podiatry, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy, The Bowen Technique, Kinesiology, Energy Field Healing, Sports Injury treatment, Remedial Massage & Soft Tissue Therapy, Homeopathy, Reflexology and Indian Head Massage.

Chiropractors work with patients who are experiencing a wide range of problems including back, neck and shoulder ache/pain; joint pain, discomfort and stiffness; muscular aches/pains; headaches and migraine; sports injuries; some arthritic pains; frozen shoulder, and sciatica.

A high percentage of new patients come to us via other satisfied patients/clients, and we also receive chiropractic referrals from GP’s, Consultants and insurance companies, and welcome referrals from employers and occupational health organisations.

If yes, here’s five ways to help you manage this and stay healthy.

1. Ensure your screen, table and chair are aligned Bending over or twisting to one side to view a computer screen for long periods of time is never ideal. Ensure therefore that your table, chair and screen are ergonomically positioned. You’ll find lots of information on the internet about how to get this right.

2. Plan your breaks Whilst it is important to take breaks, this doesn’t always mean that you have to stop working. It may mean you simply undertake different tasks which require you to move in different ways.

3. Schedule physical activity Diarise your meetings and business journeys so that you can both change your environment at regular intervals and move in different ways.

4. Stand up, sit down If you stand all day you may be able to position a smart high stool to sit on from time to time and if you sit down all day, you could perhaps stand up to take your ‘phone calls. Even small posture changes during the day will help.

5. Share job tasks Perhaps there’s a colleague you could swop tasks with? Talk to your line manager to see if you can share responsibilities which vary your physical activity but still contribute to the overall business aim.

All employers will be well aware of the problems that arise when a member of staff is either off sick, or not able to function at their best due to health problems, as will those that are self-employed, and the mounting impact that this can quickly have on any business.

Our aim has always been to enable the person to remain in work, or return to work as quickly as possible, and 4 to 6 chiropractic treatments usually fully resolve most problems.

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Please contact us for further information:

For more details about healthy, happy and productive business teams, please call Hands on at Work on 07989 367669 or email info@handsonatwork.co.uk

T: 01562 822102 E:info@goodhealth-naturally.co.uk www.goodhealth-naturally.co.uk

www.handsonatwork.co.uk July/August 2015

FOCUSONHEALTH

• No waiting lists

• No waiting lists

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• Imaging results in days not weeks

• Imaging results in days not weeks

• Choose your Consultant

• Choose your Consultant

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Why choose choose Nuffi Why Nuffield eldHealth Health Hereford Hospital?

Hospital?

Hereford Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital offers the highest standards of clinical care, with Consultant-led treatment,

Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital offers the highest standards of clinical care, with Consultant-led treatment, spotlessly clean rooms, and a team of dedicated and experienced nurses. You don’t need private medical spotlessly clean rooms, and a team of dedicated and experienced nurses. You don’t need private medical insurance to get private healthcare at Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital, you can pay for yourself. insurance to get private healthcare at Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital, you can pay for yourself.

Costs are completely transparent with no hidden extras and could be less than you think. What’s more, if you pay for yourself

Costs arecovered completely transparent witheld no Health hiddenPromise. extras and less than you think. What’s if you pay foror yourself you are by our exclusive Nuffi Yourcould initialbe consultation, appointment and more, any necessary tests you are covered by our exclusive Nuffi eld Health Promise.

Your initial consultation, appointment and any necessary tests investigations are paid for separately but once we have determined your treatment you will be given a fixed all-inclusive price.or investigations are paid for separately but once we have determined your treatment you will be given a fixed all-inclusive price.

Specialities covered at Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital include:

Specialities covered at Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital include: • Cardiology

• General Surgery

• Physiotherapy

• Cardiology

• General Surgery • Gynaecology

• Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery

• •Dermatology Ear, Nose & Throat

•• Gynaecology Neurology

Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery • •Rheumatology

• •Ear, Nose & Throat Gastroenterology

•• Neurology Ophthalmology

Rheumatology • •Urology

• Dermatology

• •Gastroenterology General medicine

•• Ophthalmology Orthopaedics

• General medicine

• Orthopaedics

• Physiotherapy

• Urology

For more information or to book, contact:

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For more information or to book, contact: 01432 262509

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01432 262509 hereford.enquiries@nuffi Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital, Venn’s Lane, eldhealth.com Hereford HR1 1DF

Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital, Venn’s Lane, Hereford HR1 1DF Promise is valid for patients paying for themselves. Excludes assisted conception and IVF treatments. Your initial consultation and any necessary tests are paid for separately. *Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary Promise is valid for patients paying for themselves.

Excludes assisted conception and IVF treatments. Your initial consultation and any necessary tests are paid for separately. *Not including Business published

by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce as a directDirection result of surgical intervention.

private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is

INTERNATIONALTRADE

Left Mike Allcock (Joint Group Chief Executive, FW Thorpe Plc and Managing Director, Thorlux Lighting), centre is Craig Meakin, Director, and on the right Andrew Thorpe (Chairman and Joint Group Chief Executive).

UKTI RUGBY WORLD CUP – HIGH VALUE OPPORTUNITIES IN GLOBAL SPORTS PROGRAMMES We are using the Rugby World Cup as a good excuse to celebrate and maximise opportunities for British companies to make maximise the export opportunities in the global sports market.

On Monday 28 September, at Sixways stadium, you are invited to attend an event focussed on the current opportunities in the global sports market. There will be UKTI experts who are working on the High Value Projects around the world, such as the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, the Winter Olympics in Korea in 2018, and multiple other similar events, available to discuss real bid propositions that are currently being procured. The export opportunities are vast – ranging from building construction, security, related infrastructure to of course the sports elements.

UKTI are coordinating bids from British companies to help them to be successful in getting some of the vast business opportunities available to them – please come along to hear about how you could benefit from this too! https://uktiwestmidlands.eventbrite.co.uk/ global-sports

THORLUX WINS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR! Thorlux Lighting were announced winners of the Business of the Year Award, sponsored by UK Trade & Investment at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) annual awards ceremony, held at Edgbaston.

Craig Meakin, Director, was presented the award by Christine Hamilton, Deputy Regional Director for UKTI. It comes at an exciting time for Thorlux, as they are about to launch a new Healthcare lighting range in Australia, and also present their educational lighting solutions in the Middle East. Thorlux are working closely with their UKTI Medium Sized Business Trade Advisor Sally Stevenson to grow their international profile and sales.

The Redditch-based business was praised by the judges for embracing global challenges, its expansion into Germany and for its commitment to employing local people.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Introducing an online ATA Carnet service. Now digital to support business in the 21st century Chamber members receive the discounted rate of £200+VAT

UKTI Herefordshire & Worcestershire 048

July/August 2015

INTERNATIONALTRADE

FIRST CLASS EXPORT ADVICE In May this year UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) launched the First Time Exporters programme, a new package of support for businesses that are considering trading overseas for the first time, or that have limited experience of operating in the global market.

The aim of the initiative is to provide access to advice and training, to prepare businesses for exporting, to maximise their international potential and to utilise new technologies through a strong digital focus.

The package includes the support of a dedicated local International Trade Adviser, who will assess a company’s export readiness and discuss its export strategy, as well as services including the Passport to Export programme, the e-Exporting programme, Export Insight Visits and the online tool Export Savvy.

Export Savvy provides the expertise that can help a business to get started in international trade, increase export capabilities and save time and money. This unique learning and information tool is targeted at novice exporters and provides practical advice and

information, in helpful bite-sized sections, on a variety of export related subjects. Each section is video-based, 15 minutes long and features the advice of an experienced exporter discussing the topic in question. The modules are designed to help businesses to focus on different aspects of the export journey. Users are encouraged at the end of each topic to analyse the export potential of their business, reach conclusions and consider next steps.

The e-Exporting programme is another key component of the new initiative. With overseas markets easily accessible via e-commerce platforms, companies can also take advantage of a service that provides advice and guidance from a local Digital Trade Adviser - an expert in international trade online. This support can open up a global consumer market via electronic channels, which can prove to be a highly efficient route to market.

To find out more, or for more information on any of the UKTI services available from your local Chamber of Commerce please contact: E: enquiries@uktiwm.co.uk T: 03452220159.

ORNUA GROUP’S MAJOR INVESTMENT IN MEADOW CHEESE LEDBURY Ornua Group, formerly The Irish Dairy Board, has recently invested £5m in Meadow Cheese, its leading UK technology-driven dairy ingredients subsidiary in Ledbury, Herefordshire. Meadow Cheese supplies a range of dairy ingredients to leading food manufacturers and foodservice distributors in the UK and internationally.

The investment is in CMS technology, the process of shredding mozzarella and mozzarella blends is a technique that’s unique in Europe and is aimed primarily at the pizza market.

Michael Harte, Managing Director of Meadow Cheese said: “This is a significant investment in new and innovative technology. Our teams have been working on the project over the last two years. The first commercial product using the technology has been well received by

the market. CMS will keep Meadow Cheese at the fore front of innovation in the dairy sector and provides new and exciting food solutions for our customers.

“We are delighted at the investment made in the Ledbury site which highlights the long term commitment of the Ornua Group in Meadow Cheese. This is excellent news both for our staff and wider Hereford and Worcester business community”.

INNOVATION WEDNESDAY GOES INTERNATIONAL! The successful series of Innovation Wednesday events will enjoy an international focus on Wednesday 19 August. Qinetiq and UKTI will be hosting a BBQ at the Qinetiq site in Malvern, which will provide businesses the opportunity to learn more about how to export, how to get help exporting, as well as the chance to talk to representatives from UKTI and DSO from around the world. Canada, Australia, Central Europe are just a few of the markets that will be represented and available to talk about opportunities in their respective countries.

It will be a great evening, and a good chance to enjoy the British summer and learn about how to grow your business internationally!

Please register if you would like to attend, for details please email sally.stevenson@mobile.ukti.gov.uk

www.ornua.com

01905 673614 internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CONFERENCEWORCESTERSHIRE www.conference-worcestershire.com

BROCKENCOTE HALL WINS GOLD AT VISITENGLAND AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE 2015 Brockencote Hall has been crowned Small Hotel of the Year at the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2015.

The 21-bedrom hotel in Worcestershire, which has been nominated for three successive years, finally lifted the coveted title in May at a glittering ceremony at the Sage Gateshead.

Commenting on the award James Berresford, VisitEngland’s Chief Executive, said: “We received

hundreds of applications of an exceptionally high quality making the competition for a Gold Award extremely tough. It is therefore a tremendous achievement for Brockencote Hall to win a Gold Award, the highest accolade for Excellence in Tourism which VisitEngland can bestow. They have raised the bar for excellence for others to aspire to and I warmly congratulate them on their exemplary contribution to tourism in this country.” www.brockencotehall.com

Becketts Conference Centre has recently launched a series of new team building events which include Golf Coaching and Wine Tasting.

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The Fish - Farncombe Estate’s third hotel is open The Fish, a new affordable boutique hotel in the Cotswolds has opened its doors. It sits on the same privately owned 400-acre estate as one of the Cotswolds most celebrated luxury hotels, Dormy House and the exclusive eight-bedroom, private house hotel, Foxhill Manor which opened in March this year. The Fish is part of an extensive redevelopment and brand new type of accommodation for the Farncombe Estate. Rooms start from £125 per night.

Andrew Grahame, Chief Executive Farncombe Estate says: “The opening of The Fish is another significant milestone for Farncombe as it brings together both a new type of accommodation and the wide range of activities we offer on the estate. This very exciting addition will not only enable us to reach more leisure and corporate guests, but also serves to demonstrate that price doesn’t have to mean compromising on style and service.”

NEW TEAM BUILDING EVENTS AT BECKETTS FARM The Centre has their onsite golf range and professional instructors so the Golf Coaching is a great summer event to treat your team. The wine tasting sessions are run by Divine Wines based in Dickens Heath, delegates get to taste and learn about what local wines we have to offer.

LUXE FOR LESS IN THE COTSWOLDS

These new events are in addition to their other unique team building events including Ready, Steady Cook, the Great Becketts Bake Off! and the Tractor Challenge.

The Fish is a 21st century boutique hotel where family, friends and business collegues can head to enjoy all that the Cotswolds offers in a relaxed, calm and very affordable way. www.farncombeestate.co.uk

www.beckettsfarm.co.uk

July/August 2015

CHAMBERNEWS

JACK STEPHENS - 1991-2015 IN MEMORY OF JACK STEPHENS, OUR HUGELY TALENTED AND MUCH LOVED COLLEAGUE AND FRIEND Jack joined the Chamber in June 2014; fresh out of university and eager to start his first short term internship. Talk about taking the Chamber by storm, Jack certainly did that with his hardworking, conscientious attitude and his amazing grasp of the English language which sent many of us looking for a dictionary. Within days, the office was talking about this very capable and enthusiastic intern, and within a matter of weeks Jack had secured a position as our PR and Policy Executive. Thrown in at the deep end, Jack excelled, turning his hand to a variety of tasks ranging from arranging meetings with the Bank of England representative and local MP’s to being the Editor of this very magazine.

Jack’s professionalism and willingness to undertake anything asked of him meant that he quickly became the face of the Chamber in the media, especially on anything politically focused. This led to him being interviewed on Sky News, representing the Chamber in BBC One’s live devolution debate and in numerous radio

interviews. All of this for a 23 year old policy graduate, even many senior business leaders would flinch at the idea of a live debate on television.

Jack was not only a valued member of the team in the office but also in all extra curricular activities that the Chamber was involved in including; joining the Chamber’s running club, taking part in the company’s Run Bike Run team and also the Great Escape Challenge, a gruelling 2 day pursuit in Staffordshire.

Tragically, Jack was taken from us at the early age of 23 on Tuesday 9 June 2015 when he suddenly collapsed and died whilst on the way to join friends at a cricket match. It was later identified that Jack had suffered a pulmonary embolism caused by an undiagnosed deep vein thrombosis.

At home, Jack was not only a loving brother and son, but a friend to many. Having grown up in Droitwich and attending Droitwich High School he was well known locally. As a keen and talented sportsman, he was a member of local cricket, golf and football teams and was awarded Best Junior Cricket Batsman 2006 and Junior Player of the Year as well as being Captain of the junior golf team.

Jack with Colin Jackson, Olympic Silver Medalist and BBC Presenter, recently visiting the Chamber offices.

ADAM MARSHALL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR POLICY AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS AT THE BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE, SAID: “Jack Stephens was well-liked not just in the Herefordshire and Worcestershire business community, but across the UK Chamber Network. Over the past year, Jack’s dynamic, can-do attitude was a regular feature at national meetings — and his support in developing and communicating policy was fantastic.

Despite being at an early stage in his career, Jack understood what made so many businesses tick, and he brought that to bear on national efforts to influence Whitehall and Westminster.

Academically Jack excelled from an early age. Awarded the outstanding achievement award in his last year at first school aged 9, Jack's teachers recognised his

THE TEAM AT THE BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE IN LONDON “We will miss Jack’s energy and enthusiasm. We were hoping that he would one day become a national Chamber Fellow, doing a big project to support businesses not just in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, but literally across the UK. We are shocked and saddened by Jack’s death, and join colleagues everywhere in marking his life and legacy."

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

potential, suggesting that this would be the first of many academic awards that Jack would receive. Jack went on to secure a scholarship to study politics at Birmingham University, this was after taking a gap year to not only make sure that Birmingham was the right choice for him, but to save money to help fund his education.

Music was a huge influence in Jack’s life and he had a very eclectic tastes ranging from Fleetwood Mac to a host of non mainstream alternatives. Jack was wise beyond his years, in all that he did, Jack didn't like to just follow the crowd, Jack stood up for what he believed in and challenged this world where he saw fit.

The loss of Jack leaves a mountain of pain however his family and friends are determined to carry forward Jack's spirit and values by aiming to raise money as part of a legacy to contribute to supporting young people where finance is a barrier to studying at university.

Anyone wishing to contribute to this fund should contact the Chamber for further information.

01905 673600/01432 803236 enquiries@hwchamber.co.uk

JOHN PAINTER, CHAIRMAN OF HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SAID: “I was shocked and saddened to learn of Jack’s death. I had only known him for around 9 months and from the first meeting he showed an air of maturity beyond his age. I was struck by his passion and energy and his ability to relate to people. His passing leaves a void in the Chamber and in the lives of those who knew him.”

MIKE ASHTON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PAID TRIBUTE SAYING: “He was an outstanding young man who achieved so much. He was well respected and loved by all who met him and his professionalism seen first hand by many. I will miss him, the Chamber and Chamber staff will miss him and importantly anybody who knew him will miss him too.”

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

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Membership corporate golf • Entertain clients • Deliver team building days • Staff incentives Any time to Monday Friday

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Package 3 100 fourballs per year - £1000 +VAT

Discounted rates on: Corporate days | Buggy hire Conference/meeting facilities Advertising on site | Company logoed merchandise Rooms with our partner hotels FREE listing on our Corporate Partners page on our website Allowing 150 words and logo for advertising purposes For more information call 01905 796375 corporategolf@gaudet-luce.co.uk

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The golf course has always been a great place to spend time with clients and colleagues and with our range of golfing options it isn’t just the domain of giant multinationals anymore. So whether you are looking for the next big order, saying thank you for the last big order or saying well done to staff you should look at doing on the course.

Set in 120 acres of beautiful Worcestershire countryside, Gaudet Luce is well known for great facilities, with two courses, a driving range and excellent meeting facilities in the air-conditioned clubhouse. Add to that corporate golf coaching options, a gym, hairdressers and beauty salon, as well as our new Footgolf course and you will be able to entertain your clients in style.

Since the start of 2015, the award winning golf centre has increased its service to corporate clients with the arrival of Mark Laing as Corporate Liaison Manager.

Mark’s role is very simple, to make sure that your corporate golf works for you.

With a range of membership models and options for golf days he will use his 40 years’ experience as a PGA professional and Director of Golf at sites across the county to ensure that you get a return on your golfing investment.

Email Mark at corporategolf@gaudet-luce.co.uk or call him on 01905 796375 for more information on how we can help you entertain your clients with us at Gaudet Luce.

Plus:

or email

ENTERTAIN YOUR CLIENTS AND COLLEAGUES IN STYLE

We know you will get a great return from corporate golf at Gaudet Luce so as a Chamber member we would like to invite you to sample the corporate experience at Gaudet Luce. Come along and play as our guests with one of our corporate team in July and August this year* and see how you could entertain your clients and staff. To take up our offer of a FREE round of golf with one of our corporate team simple email Mark Laing at corporategolf@gaudet-luce.co.uk. **

@Gaudet_Luce

Rounds must be played during July and August 2015.** 18 holes available Mon- Fri from 2pm, 9 holes available Mon – Fri from 6pm.

*

Shobdon Airfield – Home to Herefordshire Aero Club A great place to fly from, a great place to fly to, a great place to be....

The only licensed airfield in Hereford and Worcester – Shobdon Airfield offers business solutions; Fully serviced airfield able to receive private charter flights - rotary or fixed wing A CAA Approved Flight Training Organisation - fulfil that dream and learn to fly!

A fantastic venue for corporate and staff incentive days –in partnership with Tiger Helicopters, Swift Light Fight Microlight Training, Herefordshire Gliding Club – and the Hotspur Cafe and bar – amazing food from breakfast through lunch and on to dinner.

Home of the unique Shobdon Food and Flying Festival, June 27th and 28th, 2015 We’re on your doorstep – come and find out just how much we can offer!

Call 01568708369 Shobdon Airfield –Shobdon, Herefordshire HR6 9NR

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www.shobdonairfield.co.uk July/August 2015

BUSINESSNEWS

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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LACK OF PROPERTY PLANNING ENDANGERS BUSINESS GROWTH John Dillon, partner at commercial property consultancy GJS Dillon LLP, says that with growing demand for industrial and office accommodation in the county, businesses can no longer be sure of finding the right premises when they want to move.

According to GJS Dillon, in the past 12 months Worcestershire has experienced a 25% increase in take up of industrial and warehouse space and a 20% increase in take up of office space, further reducing the choice of available properties.

Mr Dillon warns: “It can take up to two years to identify and acquire suitable premises, especially if the chosen premises are new-build or are being purpose-built, so the property aspects of planning for growth need to work alongside all other parts of the business plan and in the same detail. Using a local commercial property professional to help with property planning can ensure that all major aspects of any move are covered, namely: identifying needs, timescales, leaving existing premises, and availability of property and budget”.

He says: “A business may only move a few times in its history, so its directors are not best suited to work out detailed property requirements, nor to search and negotiate for new premises on and off the market”.

GJS Dillon offer a specialist acquisition service which has successfully found premises for more than 20 Worcestershire businesses in the past two years. Case studies and testimonials about GJS Dillon’s Acquiring Agent service can be found on its website www.gjsdillon.co.uk, along with details about its other services.

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OFFICES TO RENT

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WA I N W R I G H T R OA D

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WORCESTER

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Flexible licences

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All Inclusive Cost

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Fully Furnished

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Training/meeting room for hire

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HIGH QUALITY OFFICES TO LET

From 211 sq m (2,270 sq ft) to 422 sq m (4,540 sq ft) • 16 CAR SPACES/POTENTIAL FOR AN ADDITIONAL 6 • FULLY AIR CONDITIONED

Contact Dee today 01386 424717 www.demontfortoffices.co.uk

• LOCATED JUST OFF JUNCTION 6 OF THE M5 MOTORWAY

DEMONTFORT HOUSE , VALE BUSINESS PARK. OFF A46 EVESHAM Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHARITYNEWS

KIND-HEARTED ERESPONSE PLEDGE TO RAISE £55,000 FOR MIA County recruitment and training specialist eResponse has pledged to raise £55,000 to help a disabled child with equipment and alterations to her home.

Staff from across the firm, which has three Worcestershire branches in Kidderminster, Worcester and Redditch, have committed to holding a variety of fundraising events to support eight-year-old Mia Williams.

Warwickshire-based Mia has cerebral palsy and epilepsy and was also born without eyes. The much-loved little girl must also be carried and helped around the family home by parents Dean and Fran.

The amount of funding did not match the cost to buy new equipment and make changes to the family’s home - a situation which will now change after eResponse’s Paul Alekna promised to help out. www.e-responserecruitment.co.uk

GROWING SUPPORT FOR HEREFORDSHIRE CHARITY Fifty friends and supporters of Herefordshire Growing Point gathered recently at a fund-raising lunch in Lower Lyde, and were treated to a demonstration by Rayeesa Ashghar-Sandys of Indian cooking and ways to use British produce in authentic Indian cuisine. www.rayeesasindiankitchen.com Over £2000 was raised to support the work of Herefordshire Growing Point, a registered charity which has been working across Herefordshire since 1991 to provide social and horticultural therapy for vulnerable and disabled people of all ages. Regular gardening therapy sessions guided by experienced tutors are run at the specially designed Demonstration Garden in Holme Lacy, or in care homes and day centres around the county, helping over 250 people each month to improve their quality of life, recover from injury, or cope with long-term disability. www.growingpoint.org.uk 056

THURSFIELDS COMPLETE GREAT BIRMINGHAM RUN Colleagues at Regional law Firm Thursfields dusted off their running shoes and completed the Morrison’s Great Birmingham 10K which was held on Sunday 3 May. Thursfields is one of the longest standing and reputable law firms in the region employing 100 employees across offices in Halesowen, Worcester, Kidderminster, and Stourport. The Thursfields’ Team of runners was made up of Tony Gibb, Sarah Rooney, Gareth Burge, Tim Lawrence, and Lauren Hartigan Pritchard. The team took part in the race in aid of leukemia charity B Positive which was founded by Worcestershire native Jonjo Rooney to provide a support network to patients and their families. www.thursfields.co.uk

NEW HOPE PREPARE FOR 5TH BIRTHDAY EVENTS New Hope (daytime respite service for children aged 6-19 with disabilities) are delighted to be celebrating their 5th Birthday this summer.

New Hope will be holding a music festival at Top Barn activity centre on Sunday 26 July. There will also be a fete with stalls such as face-painting, bouncy castle, hook a duck, etc. Acts performing include: Blobbie Williams, The Magoos, Jasper in the Company of Others, Done By Sunrise and Haunted Souls.

New Hope was created in July 2010 by Jean Wilson when she couldn’t find suitable daytime respite for her own disabled daughter Emily. When the doors opened they were supporting 3 families, they now support over 93 families from Worcestershire, Warwickshire and the rest of the West Midlands. Tickets are £10 for Adults and £1 for under 16’s. www.newhopeworcester.co.uk

July/August 2015

BUSINESSNEWS

Red Zebra

THE BATTLE OF EVESHAM – POLITICAL, PERSONAL AND BLOODY! 2015 is the 750th anniversary of the Battle of Evesham and the Battle of Evesham Medieval Festival will be commemorating the battle and de Montfort’s legacy between the Saturday 1Saturday 15 August.

There is a packed programme with something to interest everyone. Activities and talks will be taking place covering subjects from medieval medicine to crime and punishment, ghost tours to falconry, all culminating with a battle re-enactment over Saturday 8 - Sunday 9 August.

The battle was fought between the rebel barons led by Simon de Montfort and King Henry III’s army. Heavily outnumbered, de Montfort’s cavalry charged anyway.

The battle lasted for hours before turning into a bloody massacre. Both de Montfort and his son were killed, along with around 4,000 of his soldiers.

Despite this defeat, de Montfort is hailed a hero; he fought for the people. A democrat and the man who set up the first true Parliament, de Montfort’s fame is international and his Parliament became the template which others have followed. www.battleofevesham.co.uk

HEREFORD INAUGURAL CHARITY POP QUIZ Megan Baker House was the chosen charity for the Inaugural Hereford Business Pop Quiz organised by Harrisons Business Recovery and Insolvency Limited in partnership with Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

The Den Restaurant in Hereford was the Venue for the sell out quiz hosted by Andy Edwards of Thorne Widgery and David Cash of Barclays. Quizzers enjoyed a homemade Pie and Chip supper before testing their knowledge on their pop music through the decades. £400 was raised for Megan Baker House who provides FREE conductive education sessions for Children and adults suffering from motor disorders.

Louise Hookham Director of Harrisons said “The evening was a rip roaring success and we are already planning for the next one.”

PROFILE OF AN APPRENTICE: LUKE BASKERVILLE EMPLOYED BY: STATION AUTO SERVICES TRAINING PROVIDER: NOVA TRAINING HEREFORD After completing school, Luke Baskerville joined Nova Training on the Study Program and gained Functional skills at Level 1 & Level 2 in Maths & English.

In addition, to Functional Skills, the program also includes vocational studies and this includes Nova Training arranging work experience with an employer in the learners chosen area as the aim of the program is to get young persons ‘ready to work.’ Luke wanted to be a Motor Vehicle Mechanic so Nova arranged for placements in local garages and on his second placement things went so well that the company offered him a Motor Vehicle apprenticeship. Luke has now completed the Level 2 apprenticeship and has just started the advanced apprenticeship at Level 3. www.novatraining.co.uk

www.harrisons.uk.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH BROMSGROVE 2KM (UK) Ltd 01527 834720 www.2km.co.uk Churchill Retirement Living 01527 882788 www.churchillretirement.co.uk EPIC CIC 01527 873353 www.epic-se.co.uk First Grade International Ltd 01564 731980 www.fg-int.co.uk

DROITWICH Ormerod Rutter Consultancy Ltd 01905 777600 www.or-consultancy.co.uk

KIDDERMINSTER Citrus Computing Ltd 01562 820081 www.citruscomputing.co.uk The Worcestershire Will Company Limited 01299 879826 www.worcestershirewills.com

LEDBURY Art of Fashion Ltd T/A Wannabe Workshops 0800 1701960 www.wannabeworkshops.com/

LEOMINSTER

Ostermann UK Ltd 01905 793550 www.ostermann.eu

Apex Electrical (Leominster) Ltd 01568 369 023 www.apex-electrical.com

Print Strategy Europe 01905 795700 www.printstrategy.eu

Gail Scott Interior Design 01568 780978 www.gailscottinteriors.co.uk

EVESHAM Clarify Copywriting 01386 830036 www.clarifycopywriting.co.uk Holland House Charitable Trust 01386 860 330 www.hollandhouse.org

HEREFORD BN SHE Consultancy Ltd 07882 943 769 www.bnsheconsultancy.com Evans Easy Space 01432 373 602 www.regus.com H S Infra Limited 07833 465735 www.hsinfra.co.uk Herefordshire Football Association 01432 342179 www.herefordshirefa.com/ LMO Catering Ltd. T/A The Den Restaurant 01432 268666 Smart Services inc Ltd 01432 355245 www.duedil.com/company/09041616/smartservices-inc-ltd Taylored Business Administration 07727 008 060 www.datalog.co.uk 058

The Herefordshire Samaritans 01432 269000 www.samaritans.org/branches/herefordshiresamaritans

Heritage Oak Frames Ltd 01568 613190 www.heritageoakframes.co.uk

MALVERN Innovate Malvern CIC www.festival-innovation.com/ Mount Pleasant Hotel 01684 561837 www.mountpleasanthotel.co.uk Russell and Co Solicitors 01684 892 000 www.russellandcosolicitors.co.uk/

PERSHORE

STOURPORT ON SEVERN Vistage 07881200848 www.vistage.co.uk/ian-harris

UPTON-ON-SEVERN Ellis Pitt Ltd. 07801 633 170

WORCESTER Advised in Worcestershire Ltd 0300 123 1440 www.advisedinworcestershire.com Alexander House Financial Services 07450 203 663 www.alexanderhousefs.co.uk Headway worcestershire 01905 729729 www.headwayworcestershire.org.uk Ian Priest Associates CTD 07917 355751 Kimberlee Communications Limited 01905 753 605 www.kimcomm.co.uk Market Link Integrated Marketing 01905726575 www.marketlink-uk.com Miss Milly Limited 01905 622509 www.missmilly.co.uk National Westminster Bank Plc 01905 355 743 www.rbs.com Zentano Limited 01905 340 098 www.zentanogroup.co.uk/

Poole Phillips Associates 01386 555166 www.poolephillips.co.uk

OUT OF AREA

REDDITCH

Ace Day Events Limited 01926 512 755 www.acedays.co.uk

Heller Machine Tools Limited 0121 275 3300 www.heller.biz Kerwoods 01527 584444 www.kerwoods.co.uk

ROSS ON WYE NFU Mutual Ross on Wye and Ledbury 01989 563 086 www.nfumutual.co.uk/branches/rossonwye/

AlloyGator Ltd 01527 909801 www.alloygator.co.uk Novum Law 01793 539 040 www.novumlaw.com Whole In One Golf Ltd. 01138 571 571 www.wholeinonegolf.co.uk July/August 2015

NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH

NEW CHAMBER MEMBER LAUNA BROOKS HOLDS WORKSHOP WITH OTHER CHAMBER MEMBERS

HEREFORDSHIRE FA ACHIEVE FOUNDATION LEVEL STANDARD FOR EQUALITY

Three Chamber members are celebrating a great success after holding their first joint workshop together. Jane Brook (Image Consultant, pictured left), Tracy J Reck (Personal Trainer and Professional Speaker, centre) and Launa Brooks (Management & Personal Development Specialist, right) met through networking and realised that there was much synergy in the work that they do. Their workshop, 'Journey to Greater Confidence', introduced attendees to a number of tried and trusted ways to lift them out of the doldrums, to stop them feeling stuck and to help them move forward with confidence and drive.

Not only was the workshop a complete sell out but the feedback was amazing, one attendee sharing 'All speakers were ace and it is not often you enjoy and take the benefit from all parts of the presentation'. The team are now planning a number of workshops on related personal development topics including a November meet on how to cope with Christmas! www.houseofcolour.co.uk/janebrook www.naturallyexuberant.co.uk www.launabrooks.co.uk

BLIND, OLD AGE PENSIONER MAKES COMEBACK

Herefordshire FA is delighted to have achieved the Foundation Level of National Standards for Equality in Sport. Achieving the standard has helped build on existing good practice in equality and also embed equality at every level within the organisation.

Five years ago Allan lost his eyesight and retired.

Keeping himself busy as a volunteer working for Worcester Association of Carers and Avoncroft Museum at Bromsgrove, a member of U3A local history group, Probus 87, and Malvern Toastmasters, and has now been elected to Droitwich Parish Council.

Jim Labert, Chief Executive Officer of Herefordshire Football Association, said: “We are a County that is committed to leading change, with equality, being at the heart of all of what we do.

We have some challenging years ahead and with the demographics of Herefordshire. We need to ensure that we lead the way and offer the benchmark for others to aspire towards.”

A retired Electromechanical Engineer, businessman and business coach, Allan has now joined a group mentoring young entrepreneurs and is hoping that his experience can help the next generation of aspiring entrepreneurs.

www.herefordshirefa.com

With the help of Sight Concern, Allan learnt touch-typing with software on his computer to help him. Allan now has a personal development book at the publishers, with a couple of novels, a personal development course and a marketing course on the way.

Allan has set himself a new project, a marketing book for Droitwich and district, with the aim to raise £25,000 for Sight Concern Worcester.

THE CHAMBER HAS BEEN THERE FROM THE START, OFFERING MY BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE, SUPPORT AND DIRECTION...

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce exists to support local businesses of all sizes start, survive and grow.

Our members make business connections and access our network’s professional expertise, knowledge and experience.

JOIN THE NETWORK AND MAKE SURE YOU’RE WELL CONNECTED. ■ ■ ■ ■

0845 641 1641

Over 150 events each year Over 1,400 members Invaluable networking opportunities Local, regional and international reach

■ Expertise to guide you every step of the way ■ Global support network ■ Over 70 courses in essential business skills

GOODBUSINESS@HWCHAMBER.CO.UK

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

HWCHAMBER.CO.UK 059

MOVERSANDSHAKERS

TRIO OF PARTNER PROMOTIONS AT MFG SOLICITORS

FOUR MORE ADDED TO BORWELL TEAM! CAROLINE SMALE, BISHOP FLEMING Top 40 accountants, Bishop Fleming which has an office in Worcester - have promoted their head of compliance to be the firm’s 27th partner with a remit to oversee the quality of technical services and staff training. Having joined Bishop Fleming as a graduate trainee in 1988, Caroline Smale qualified in 1992 and worked as an audit manager before becoming the firm’s Compliance Director in 2005.

More recently, her expertise has been recognised by the national accountancy profession. She was elected to the Practice Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW). In her new partnership post with Bishop Fleming, Caroline Smale will be the firm’s first partner with no fee earning role.

Steve Borwell-Fox Managing Director commented: “When it comes to software developers it is very hard to find candidates with the correct skills, so at borwell we will take skilled apprentices and train them up.”

Samuel and Jake joined borwell in January as Apprentice Software Engineers. borwell also recruited Curtis as a Digital Marketing Apprentice and Alistair Druett as Marketing and Business Development Manager. Curtis said: ‘’It is amazing that I am learning and working at the same time it’s brilliant!’’

Alistair Druett said: “I am really looking forward to working with such a great, well respected company like borwell and help business locally, nationally and internationally get their systems to work for them.”

As part of the firm’s long-term growth strategy, mfg Solicitors have announced three partner promotions.

CAREY MCKEOWN, CAPLOR PROPERTY Carey McKeown has joined Caplor Property, based in Fownhope, as Portfolio Development Manager. Carey has significant lettings and property experience having started as an office junior nearly twenty years ago to running the business with her husband. Carey will help develop the sustainable and affordable housing that Caplor Property focusses on, and build on the relationship with award-winning Martin & Co in providing rental services. www.caplor.co.uk/property/

www.borwell.com

www.bishopfleming.co.uk

Tax and trust specialist Gary Priest has been promoted within mfg’s private client division.

Gary joined mfg in 2005 and has built a reputation for his advice across the rural and agricultural business sectors.

Residential conveyancing expert Andrew Davies, who joined mfg in 2003, has also become a partner. Andrew has developed a wide client base advising on all aspects of residential conveyancing – including developers and those purchasing high-value country properties.

Completing the trio of partner promotions is family specialist Katherine Tippetts. She has over 10 years’ experience in dealing with a diverse number of finance-related matrimonial matters and disputes. www.mfgsolicitors.com

TOM HAMBROOK AND VERONIKA DAVIS, CURO CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

SARAH MORLEY, KENDALL WADLEY CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Kendall Wadley Chartered Accountants has announced the promotion of Sarah Morley to Assistant Audit Manager.

Reporting into Kendall Wadley’s Audit Manager Carole Liddle, Sarah’s new role involves managing Kendall Wadley’s audit clients to ensure their planning and compliance. She is also helping to develop internal control systems for clients, working across all three of Kendall Wadley’s offices in Malvern, Worcester and Hereford. www.kwca.co.uk 060

Bromsgrove-based Curo Chartered Accountants has recently recruited an accounting apprentice and qualified accountant to its busy team. Tom Hambrook and Veronika Davis joined the practice in response to a growing client portfolio and have settled in well to their new roles.

Says Curo’s audit partner Anna Madden “We’ve been fortunate to recruit two talented and enthusiastic individuals as we continue to look after our growing local market. It’s a busy time for us as we are seeing a lot of interest in our services, especially for our work with local owner-managers.

MINSTER MICRO COMPUTERS LIMITED APPOINT MIKE FIELDING Kidderminster based Minster Micro Computers Limited is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Fielding as New Business Sales Consultant.

“We find apprenticeships are a great way to nurture local talent and ensure professional qualifications are achieved even earlier.”

Mike brings with him 15 years sales experience and adds a further dimension to Minster’s expanding sales and account management team. Minster is continuing to recruit for a number of positions across the business, as part of a major recruitment drive, with Mike’s role focusing on working with local SME’s to help them gain the best from their existing IT systems and processes.

www.curoca.co.uk

www.minstermicro.co.uk

BARRY DAVIES, OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL In what will be a milestone year for the UK and Ireland supply chain specialists Oakland International, it has now been confirmed that Barry Davies is the company’s new Managing Director.

Barry also commented: “I am extremely pleased to be joining the Oakland International family business to review, revitalise and rejuvenate for success with all our stakeholders ensuring that we are a ‘partner of choice’ and an enabler for connecting networks.” www.oakland-international.com

July/August 2015

MOVERSANDSHAKERS

PROMOTION FOR TWO CORPORATE SPECIALISTS ABIGAIL APPLETON, HEREFORD COLLEGE OF ARTS (HCA)

JAMES PUGH, DJD ARCHITECTS DJD Architects are delighted to announce the promotion of chartered architect James Pugh to Director as they look to the future of the organisation.

James has been with DJD Architects for ten years and has worked as Associate Director for the past five years. He specialises in housing and sustainability, and says “I enjoy the challenge of balancing a project’s constraints whilst striving to create something that is more than the sum of its parts.” www.djdgroup.co.uk/architects/

Abigail Appleton, the current Creative Director of BBC Learning has been appointed by the Governing body as the new Principal and CEO of Hereford College of Arts (HCA).

As Principal, Abigail will have overall control in driving HCA’s strategic vision and for taking the College into a secure and successful future. She joins at a time when the College has ambitious plans to grow its higher and further education numbers together with making a significant contribution to the cultural, creative and economic landscape of the region.

Abigail will take up the role in this autumn. She takes over from Richard Heatly who announced his retirement after being Principal for the past 12 years. www.hca.ac.uk

NATALIE TANNER, HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce and welcome Natalie Tanner to their membership team.

Natalie has joined the Chamber with a strong background in customer facing roles within recruitment, retail management and cabin crew.

Natalie will be responsible for account managing 500 Chamber members throughout Worcestershire. In addition to this, she will be assisting with the Chambers marketing and social media teams to help deliver a variety of different content to our members and promote their business interests. www.hwchamber.co.uk

Leading regional law firm, Harrison Clark Rickerbys, is delighted to announce the firm’s most recent promotions which have taken place in the firm’s corporate department.

Two of the firm’s corporate specialists have been promoted; Rebecca Leask from Senior Associate to Partner and Jenny Staples, from Solicitor to Associate.

Rebecca joined the firm in September 2005 and has a general corporate practice with a specialism in Health and Social Care transactions, in particular corporate acquisitions and disposals, mergers, joint ventures, restructures and private equity deals. In addition to her practice as a solicitor, Rebecca is also a qualified barrister and Notary Public.

Jennifer, who joined the firm in March 2009, covers Harrison Clark Rickerbys’, Hereford and Ross offices providing corporate legal advice to clients nationally. She has a depth of experience in a wide variety of corporate matters.

She also acts for businesses of all shapes and sizes across a broad range of sectors.

LUKE RAWLINGS, THE HIVE Business events at The Hive are attracting increasing numbers and new businesses following the appointment of Luke Rawlings, business development intern.

Luke joined The Hive team in October last year as a recent graduate and member of the University of Worcester Momentum programme with the remit of building business activity at The Hive. Six months on the results are very positive.

Working with Business Centre partners: University of Worcester Business School and Worcestershire.Business.Central and local businesses Luke has organised regular networking and business support events, business breakfasts and workshops. www.thehiveworcester.org/ business-events

THURSFIELDS’ NEW RECRUITS FOR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENT

GILL CALDER, SME SOLICITORS SME Solicitors have announced the appointment of Gill Calder within its Wills and Probate team. Appointed in the role as Associate Legal Executive, Gill brings over 20 years’ expertise in Wills and Probate. Gill has a wealth of experience advising clients on Wills, powers of attorney, administration of estates and Court of Protection matters. www.smesolicitors.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Thursfields Solicitors are delighted to announce the recent appointment to their Commercial Property team of Claire Cooper, Associate Solicitor and Emma Hughes, Legal Assistant.

Thursfields have offices across the Black Country and Worcestershire and the new recruits will be helping to continue developing the Commercial Property department which has seen significant growth in turnover during the last twelve months.

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

www.thursfields.co.uk 061

LASTWORD Nigel Church of First Solution

HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE GOLF SOCIETY EVENTS - JULY/AUGUST 2015 Worcester Evening Golf Thursday 16 July 2015 4.00-8.00pm Gaudet Luce Golf Club, Middle Lane, Hadzor, Droitwich, WR9 7JR Part of our series of networking golf events, this is an excellent opportunity to meet and network with your neighbors on the golf course. We will play 9 holes teeing off from 4.30pm after the round we will have a relaxed meal in the clubhouse and some more networking finishing the evening around 8.00pm. £20.00+VAT Members / £25.00+VAT Non-members Worcester Evening Golf Thursday 17 September 2015 4.00-8.00pm Gaudet Luce Golf Club, Middle Lane, Hadzor, Droitwich, WR9 7JR Part of our series of networking golf events, this is an excellent opportunity to meet and network with your neighbors on the golf course. We will play 9 holes teeing off from 4.30pm after the round we will have a relaxed meal in the clubhouse and some more networking finishing the evening around 8.00pm. £20.00+VAT Members / £25.00+VAT Non-members

HOW INTEGRAL IS COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY IN THE MODERN BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT? It is surely now impossible to separate technology from the modern business environment. It has been well proven that properly designed and managed technology systems can deliver a competitive advantage in the modern connected economy.

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber Charity Golf Day Friday 2 October 2015 Sponsored By: CB Chartered Accounts Venue: The Worcestershire Golf Club Shotgun Start with 18 holes of Golf, Arrival refreshments, Player goody bags & Prize Presentation Dinner.

Team of 4 Entry £300.00+ VAT

WITH THAT IN MIND, WHY IS IT IMPORTANT THAT BUSINESSES HAVE GOOD CYBER SECURITY PRACTICES? It is critical for a number of different reasons, too many to list here. So without wishing to over simplify the argument, businesses need to protect what they own, the level of protection needs to be in line with the value of the digital assets that it is trying to protect. Every businesses strategic approach to cyber risk should be the responsibility of the board of directors.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING GOOD DIGITAL (PHONE AND BROADBAND) CONNECTIVITY? In the connected economy not being connected can cause a loss to profit and productivity. Good digital connectivity is therefore critical to maintaining the necessary business performance. It is an area of under investment within many businesses. There are however now a number of government grants available to help businesses get the connectivity they need.

IS IT A ONE-SIZE FITS ALL APPROACH FOR INTEGRATED DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS? Certainly not – although there are a number of technologies that we all rely on the service delivery, resilience and therefore costs of the services vary. It is important that any technology meets the business need, and cost is always a factor. No two businesses are the same and therefore logically no two technology systems should be the same.

WHAT SIMPLE TOP TIP COULD YOU GIVE TO BUSINESSES LOOKING TO KEEP THEIR VALUABLE DATA SECURE? Any company’s data security system is only as strong as the weakest link and generally this is the employees. So all businesses should invest in awareness education and the training of their staff in understanding data security and cyber risk. www.firstsolution.co.uk 062

For more information or booking form contact Neil Bettridge on 07792620355 or sales@amrosgolf.co.uk Booking form can also be downloaded from www.hwchamber.co.uk July/August 2015

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BUSINESSNEWS

Boasting a £5 million pound refurbishment, Stanbrook Abbey is more incredible than ever before and perfect for when only exceptional is good enough.

With 19 stunning function rooms and first class facilities, business and pleasure go hand in hand at Stanbrook Abbey. Contact us today and let us show you what we can do.

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Callow End, Worcestershire, WR2 4TY (junction 7 of the M5/South of Worcester) StanbrookAbbey.com • 0330 333 7 222 • Hello@StanbrookAbbey.com

July/August 2015