Direction
Business
SCHEMES THAT ALLOW BUSINESSES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE PAGE 32
CHARITIES AROUND THE TWO COUNTIES PAGE 30
CHAMBER OF THE YEAR 2013 Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Issue 34 November/December 2016
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Bu sin es s
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FIRSTWORD T ALLOW SCHEMES THA S TO MAKE BUSINESSE E A DIFFERENC PAGE 32
AROUND CHARITIES NTIES THE TWO COU PAGE 30 Issue 34 cember 2016 November/De
Commerce Chamber of THE YEAR 2013 & Worcestershire CHAMBERonOF Herefordshire published by Business Directi
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 4,000 businesses.
EDITOR Rebekah Harris 01905 673 639 rebekahh@hwchamber.co.uk
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FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss deangriss@btinternet.com 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.
WELCOME TO THE NOVEMBER/DECEMBER EDITION OF BUSINESS DIRECTION 2016 is now drawing to a close, after twelve months of change, challenges and opportunity. In the past year we have seen the EU referendum campaigns conclude with a vote for Brexit and we have a new Prime Minister, Cabinet and three new departments. Larger businesses will have started to think about the Apprenticeship Levy and businesses of all sizes have faced concerns about exchange rates and other financial headwinds. Going into 2017, the Chamber Network calls on the government to bring more clarity for businesses about the future for the UK. As some of you will know, I announced my planned retirement from Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce in October, and will step down as Chief Executive on Friday 31 March 2017. It has been a pleasure and privilege to support the two counties’ businesses over the years, and I will continue to do some work in Worcestershire in 2017/18 supporting Inward Investment opportunities. The Chamber has seen a number of developments since I became CEO nearly ten years ago. 2016 has brought numerous opportunities to celebrate the success of many of our members. In April, five Worcestershire businesses were awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade and Innovation. In June, 11 businesses became winners in the Chamber Business Awards 2016, with over 550 people at the ceremony, and five went on to claim their category for the West Midlands in the regional heats. In September, 120 people from the tourism industry attended the Visit Herefordshire & Visit Worcestershire Awards for Excellence, and in October the Chamber hosted our biggest Business Expo to date. This season we have also welcomed a new Patron member, EBC Group, and we look forward to partnering with them. One of the Chamber’s key assets is its people and we were delighted to be awarded the Investors In People (IIP) Gold Award in September. This edition of Business Direction focuses on Corporate Social Responsibility, and features a Big Interview with Andy Moss, CEO of Phoenix Life, about the business’ approach to its staff and the wider community. Best regards, Mike mikea@hwchamber.co.uk
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November/December 2016
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
03
CHAMBERNEWS
CHANGES TO THE CHAMBER BOARD Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce welcomes three new members to its board, and says goodbye to two former members. John Carr, Facebook, addresses attendees
GLP Training, Worcester
OVER 1000 AT OCTOBER CHAMBER BUSINESS EXPO
After two years serving as President, Stuart Speight has stepped down to be replaced by Andrea Borwell-Fox, Co-Director of borwell Ltd. Andrea has been involved with the Chamber for several years, both through her time on the Board as Vice President for Worcestershire and through her role in co-hosting the Worcestershire Women’s Business Forum (sponsored by borwell). Ben Mannion, Strategic Development Director at Hewett Recruitment, has joined the Board as the new Vice President for Worcestershire. Louise Hookham, former Vice President for Herefordshire, has stepped down and has been replaced by Mike Forrester, Chairman of Orchard Valley Foods Limited. Andrea said: “I am looking forward to
L-R: Mike Ashton, Andrea Borwell-Fox, Jim McBride, Mike Forrester and Ben Mannion
representing Chamber membership at local board level, at regional events and at the British Chamber of Commerce in London. During my two-year post, l will help promote member services and plan to introduce new initiatives too. You will always find me at the ever popular bi-monthly Women’s Business Forums and the annual Women’s Business Conference. I will continue to represent the IT sector alongside my day job as Commercial Director at borwell.”
Over 1000 people attended the Three Counties Showground on Thursday 6 October for the Chamber Business Expo, sponsored by Hewett Recruitment. 250 attendees enjoyed hearing from John Carr, Partner Manager at Facebook, the keynote speaker for the networking breakfast, who spoke on “The Evolution of Communication." Facebook delivered two workshops in the morning, and local company Johnson Fleming delivered a seminar on Auto Enrolment. The day also featured a “Meet the CEO“ event and a Business Leader’s Lunch, attended by over 50 people. The 125 stand exhibition had a lively atmosphere throughout the day, with visitors speaking to exhibitors, taking part in games and competitions and networking. Visitors were able to explore The Health and Wellbeing Zone, and find out about the thousands of exporting opportunities available aboard the Exporting is GREAT truck. Local experts were on hand on board the truck to advise visitors about translation, documentation and making the first step overseas. Jason Lane, Business Development Manager at McCarthy Taylor Limited, said: “The Business Expo is a great opportunity to make new connections and catch up with old contacts. This year’s event was the best I’ve attended so far, with more space for exhibitor’s stands and a lively feel to the day.”
04
Chamber staff celebrate the Gold accreditation at the Chamber picnic
IIP GOLD FOR H&W CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is delighted to have achieved the Investors In People (IIP) Gold Award, becoming one of only nine businesses in the two counties to achieve the accreditation and the only accredited Chamber of Commerce in Central England. IIP is the global standard for people management, delivered through a rigorous assessment framework. Successful accreditation is the sign of a great employer, an outperforming place to work and a clear commitment to sustainability.
Key areas assessed included the organisation’s Learning and Development Strategy, People Management Strategy, Leadership and Management Strategy, Reward and Recognition and Performance Measurement. Mike Bramall, IIP Assessor, said: “I am delighted to confirm that Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has now achieved Investors in People ‘Gold’ status. I have worked with the Chamber since 2009 and this success is just reward for the importance it places on its people and for the continuous improvement it has made in its people-management practices over this period. Mike Ashton and all his colleagues are to be congratulated on this excellent achievement of which everyone should be very proud.”
November/December 2016
CHAMBERNEWS
FIVE WORCESTERSHIRE BUSINESSES CROWNED REGIONAL WINNERS Adam Marshall, Director General of the BCC
BCC APPOINTS ADAM MARSHALL AS DIRECTOR GENERAL Bee Lighting Ltd, Gemporia, Vision Labs Limited, RGS Worcester and Waste Spectrum Environmental Limited are the 2016 winners for the West Midlands
Five winners from the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards have successfully gone on to claim their category in the West Midlands heats of the British Chamber Business Awards 2016. Bee Lighting Ltd was awarded the Small Business of the Year Award and Gemporia became the regional winner for the Best Use of Technology. Vision Labs Limited won the Commitment to People Development Award, RGS
Worcester became the regional winner in the Education and Business Partnership category and Waste Spectrum Environmental Limited took away the award for Exporter of the Year. Worcestershire claimed five out of the seven regional categories for the West Midlands, highlighting the strength of businesses in the county. These companies will now go forward to represent the West Midlands in the National Finals, which take place in London on Thursday 24 November.
CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW PATRON – EBC GROUP One of the region’s leading IT & Technology providers, EBC Group, has become the Chamber’s latest patron member.
services to a wide rage of industries and sectors, including managed print, document management, IT services, telephony and connectivity.
Established over 25 years ago, EBC Group have grown to become one of the most successful workplace technology specialists in the UK, providing managed
As part of the exclusive partnership, EBC Group will benefit from the Chamber’s extensive support, as well providing members with access to their expertise and unique tech offerings. They will also be partnering with the Chamber on a number of events. Richard Lane, Managing Director, said: “Having been a member of the Chamber for a number of years, we are delighted to take our membership to the next level. We value both our partnership with the Chamber, and with our clients throughout the area, and see this move as an opportunity to connect with businesses across the region looking for help with their IT and technology”.
EBC Group, new Patron member of H & W Chamber of Commerce
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Adam Marshall as its new Director General with immediate effect. Adam initially took on the role on an Acting basis following the resignation of John Longworth in March 2016, and was appointed to the role on a permanent basis following a robust recruitment process. Adam has worked at the BCC since July 2009, initially as Executive Director for Policy and External Affairs. Prior to joining, he helped start up the Centre for Cities organisation, built transatlantic industry-university links and worked in the broadcast media. He holds a BA from Yale University and MPhil and PhD degrees from the University of Cambridge. Adam Marshall, Director General of the BCC, said: “I am humbled and delighted to have the opportunity to lead the BCC team, and to speak up for Chambers and their many thousands of members all across the UK.” “At this time of national transition and change, BCC will ensure that the diverse voices of business are heard - regardless of size, sector, region or nation. We will act to ensure that British businesses get every opportunity to grow and thrive, both here at home and across the world. And we will stand up for the many thousands of dedicated Chamber member companies who combine the best features of business and deep local commitment.”
www.ebcgroup.co.uk
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
05
BUSINESSNEWS
Dr David Bozward and Tim Maxfield
UNIVERSITY GAINS CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE STATUS The University of Worcester has become one of a handful of education organisations to gain Centre of Excellence status from the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE). The University, which offers a number of Entrepreneurship degrees through its Business School, now has the flagship accreditation, which marks out organisations that promote and deliver enterprise skills development. Dr David Bozward, the University’s Strategic Lead in Entrepreneurship, said: “Entrepreneurship is part of the core strategy for the University of Worcester and, as such, we are developing a world class environment for students, staff and local entrepreneurs. “This IOEE Centre of Excellence is recognition that we have demonstrated our commitment to enterprise and also working with our local partners.” IOEE’s Chief Executive, Sarah Trouten, said: “There is an enterprising culture and clear examples of innovative practices with good engagement with external partners including LEP’s, growth hubs and local businesses.”
EXPERTS GATHER IN PARIS FOR MALVERN MICROCAL MEETING Microcalorimetry users from across the globe joined scientists from Malvern Instruments at September’s MicroCal open forum meeting, co-organized with Institut Pasteur and ARBRE-MOBIEU COST Action. The event provided a valuable opportunity for scientists to extend their understanding and applications of the powerful analytical technique of microcalorimetry, which investigates the interactions between, and thermal stability of, molecules/ biomolecules. The technique is widely used in the research and discovery of new synthetic drugs, and development and manufacture of biopharmaceuticals. Natalia Markova, Principal Scientist at Malvern, said: “We were pleased to have both beginners and experts at the meeting to share the latest advances in microcalorimetry. Our close collaboration with the ARBRE network was successful and helped ensure the high quality and broad scope of the meeting’s scientific content.” Ronan O’Brien, Head of Business Development – MicroCal at Malvern, added: “It was great to see so many varied applications using the technology, with a focus on best practices and proven solutions.” www.malvern.com
www.worcester.ac.uk
“Ascension” will be made from 3000 pieces of coloured glass
NEW SAS MEMORIAL FOR HEREFORD CATHEDRAL An internationally important artwork, dedicated to the Special Air Service, is to be installed in Hereford Cathedral in the form of a magnificent sculpture and stained glass window. The £1m project, funded through donations and due to be completed in April 2017, will be a modern focus for reflection. Called “Ascension”, the installation has been created by the Royal Academy sculptor, John Maine. The nine-metre high installation includes 3,000 pieces of European glass in 40 different colours. The parallax glazing is being assembled by architectural glass specialists Derix, of Germany. The stone sculpture will be carved from Brazilian blue syenite, golden sandstone from Clashach Quarry, near Elgin in Scotland and black Tournai marble from Belgium. According to the Dean of Hereford Cathedral, the Very Revd Michael Tavinor, it is “one of the most important pieces of new Cathedral art in the world.” www.herefordcathedral.org
TOP 50 FASTEST GROWING FIRMS INCREASE GROWTH Worcestershire’s top 50 fastest growing firms by turnover have grown in total by an average of 31% over the last three years. In total they currently contribute over £2.3bn to the Worcestershire and wider Midlands economy and have created an extra 2,259 jobs over the three years, according to a new report from accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP. The BDO Worcestershire Growth
06
Barometer 2016 looks at the fastest-growing businesses in Worcestershire and interviews leading business voices in the region. The top five fastest growing businesses are Working On Wellbeing Ltd, Grey Technology Limited, Cruise.Co (Holdings) Limited, Ashland Specialties UK Limited and Lioncourt Homes Limited. They collectively contribute £265m in revenues to the local economy and have increased employee numbers
by 25% over the last three years. Gary Rouse, Worcestershire Director, commented: “The financial success of these businesses, combined with the impact they have had on employment, should be welcomed by all. They have built a sustainable foundation for growth over the last few years and are continuing to forge ahead with their growth ambitions.” www.bdo.co.uk
November/December 2016
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FOCUSONDIGITALMARKETING
The Power of the Mobile Device
Mobile phones were designed to be exactly that: a mobile telephone, making it simple for people to make calls on the move. Today mobile devices do so much more. Web browsers, video cameras, gaming systems, social media sources, navigators, calendars, alarm clocks, torches, organisational systems to name a few. Just using your phone to make a call is definitely a thing of the past. Statistics and History Current figures show that there are 91.5 million mobile subscriptions in the UK to date, and 75% of adults own a smart phone. According to Google, 2015 made internet history, as for the first time more searches were done on a mobile device than a desktop. This means there is a good chance that when someone is looking for something, they are starting the search process on their mobile device.
Communication Still Remains Mobile devices were simply telephones for communication, obviously this is still the case but the level of communication has reached new levels. Apps, wifi, high res cameras offer so many different ways to share information. Social media and social media apps push the process of communication even further. Posts, tweets and images can be shared across the globe reaching potential customers in an instant. To truly benefit from mobile marketing you need to build a relationship process. Dialogue needs to be exchanged. Post an image on social media and look to get comments, retweets, shares - any type of response. The “mobile” nature of mobile phones means it is easy to stay connect and on top of social posts and messages. You can respond to customers and potential customers on the go, constantly remaining connected to your target market.
Download the full guide e-book here http://tiny.cc/ mobilepower
active users. Not only did the game surpass the dating app, but players in early July spent more time trying to catch Pokemon in the real world than using other popular apps including WhatsApp and Instagram. (Source: MailOnline). Location, Location, Location Prior to the Pokemon phenomena, people could “check in” to locations via Facebook. Or tag businesses on Twitter: “Loving my new dishwasher from @ dishwasher_express #dishwasherperfect” This not only increases brand awareness but provides a perfect place to 'share' or 'retweet' to potential customers. Yes, all of this can be done on a desktop computer, but life is hectic. The evolution of the mobile device allows people to send a quick tweet reviewing a product or ask a question via an email without having to be physically at a desk or a computer.
Have you caught ‘em all?
Develop your Mobile Marketing Strategy In order to achieve the best from a mobile marketing strategy you need to consider your industry and target customer demographics just for starters.
Google have been favouring mobile friendly websites in the search results. For potential customers this is great as the chances are most sites appearing in the top spots for search results will be mobile friendly. You can actually check your website to see how Google views it and whether it is deemed mobile suitable.
One of the latest trends is the Pokemon Go app. This free app uses GPS to place your trainer avatar on a map and interact with virtual creatures. There are various points across the world that are Pokestops to collect virtual resources for game users. Eventually businesses will be able to sponsor Pokestops to lure Pokemon Go users to their place of business! In fact some businesses have already started to take advantage of the fact that their business is a Pokestop or is near to one. With an average of 45 millions daily active Pokemon Go users, posting on social media that your business is a hot spot not only connects with your current clientele, it attracts new customers by connecting the latest trend to your business.
If your website isn’t optimised for mobile, it’s likely any other work you have been doing to promote your website or boost the rankings, will be wasted.
Just one day after its July 6th release, Pokemon Go had already been installed on more Android devices than Tinder, and threatened to overtake Twitter in number of
Are you Mobile Friendly? If your business is found through a mobile device, the next step in the process is to ensure your website is mobile friendly. How does the site appear when on a smaller device as opposed to a desktop display? Is it an easy browsing experience?
WSI can help you put together a mobile marketing strategy to not only keep you in the game, but provide results.
Phone: 01905 758034 simon.thompson@wsinetmarketing.co.uk www.wsiworld.com/simonthompson
FOCUSONLEGAL
Specialist lawyers lawyers at at Specialist mfg Solicitors Solicitors make make elite elite mfg legal list list legal Seven solicitors from Chamber Seven solicitors from Chamber patrons mfg Solicitors have been patrons mfg Solicitors have been named among the most outstanding named among the most outstanding in their field in 2016 Legal 500, the in their field in Legal 500, the 29th edition of 2016 the legal profession’s 29th edition of the legal profession’s referral guide. referral guide. The firm, which has eight offices The firm, haswas eight offices across thewhich region, placed in the across was placed in the top tierthe forregion, its contentious trusts and top tier for its contentious trusts and probate work, led by partner Robert probate by partner Robert Weston,work, who isled highly recommended Weston, who is highly recommended for the fourth year running in the legal for the fourth sector’s bible.year running in the legal sector’s bible. mfg’s expertise in the agricultural mfg’s in the agricultural sector,expertise commercial litigation and sector, commercial litigation and with family law was also highly rated family law was also singled highly rated with six further lawyers out when six lawyers singled out when thefurther guide was released in September. the guide was released in September. Farming and estates expert, partner Farming and estates expert, partner Iain Morrison, has been praised Iain Morrison, has been praised for the 10th year-in-a-row while for thecolleague 10th year-in-a-row while Iain’s Helen Gough is also Iain’s colleague is alsoand featured for herHelen adviceGough to farmers featured for her advice to farmers and landowners. landowners. Litigation specialists, partner Tom Litigation partnerPedley, Tom Esler and specialists, associate Samuel Esler and associate Samuel Pedley, were described as ‘highly professional’ were described as ‘highlydisputes professional’ in resolving commercial in resolving commercial disputes while family and divorce law partners, while and divorce law partners, Alisonfamily Webber and Gurdip Kaur Brring, Alison Webber rated and Gurdip Kaur Brring, were strongly by clients. were strongly rated by clients.
Aside from the seven experts, mfg Aside from the seven experts, mfg was also highly recommended in was also highly recommended in the guide for its employment and the guide forwork, its employment and HR services its commercial HR services work, its commercial property expertise, property property property litigation expertise, and personal tax and litigation and personal tax and trusts advice. trusts advice. “The Legal 500 is up there as “The Legal 500 isrespected, up there as one of the most one of the most respected, independent rankings of lawyers independent rankings lawyers across the world so toof see us across the world so to see us listed prominently once again is listed prominently once again is excellent”, said Maynard Burton, excellent”, said Maynard Burton, partner and chairman of the firm. partner and chairman of the firm. “Each individual named and “Each individual named and department listed thoroughly department listed thoroughly deserve the praise and recognition. deserve recognition. They arethe at praise the topand of their game They are at thefirst-rate top of their game and providing advice to and providing first-rate advice to clients every day. clients every day. “Special recognition simply must “Special recognition must go to Robert Westonsimply who has an go to Robert track Weston who in has an outstanding record winning outstanding track record in winning countless court cases, many of countless court cases, many of and which have been complex wills which have beenin complex and dispute matters the highwills court. dispute matters in the high court. He is quite rightly listed as being a He is quite rightly leader in his field.”listed as being a leader in his field.”
Robert Weston Litigation Division Robert Weston
Iain Morrison Iain Morrison
Litigation Division
Head of Division - Agriculture and Rural Affairs Division Head of Division - Agriculture and Rural Affairs Division
Tom Esler Litigation Division Tom Esler
Sam Pedley Litigation Division Sam Pedley Litigation Division
Litigation Division
Alison Webber Family Law Division Alison Webber Family Law Division
Helen Gough Helen Gough
Associate - Agriculture and Rural Affairs Division Associate - Agriculture and Rural Affairs Division
Gurdip Kaur Brring Family Law Division Gurdip Kaur Brring Family Law Division
Members can contact the team at mfg Solicitors Members can contact the team at mfg Solicitors by telephoning 0845 55 55 321 or by by telephoning 0845 55 55 321 or by visiting: www.mfgsolicitors.com visiting: www.mfgsolicitors.com
Tel: 0845 55 55 321 Tel: 0845 55 55 321
www.mfgsolicitors.com www.mfgsolicitors.com
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 23021_MFG_Business Direction Advert_V4.indd 1
@mfgsolicitors @mfgsolicitors 09 07/10/2016 16:20
BUSINESSNEWS Howard “Suited for Success”
Rethink Printing’s newly branded van
VIBRANT NEW LOOK FOR HEREFORD’S RETHINK PRINTING Rethink Printing, formerly Cartridge World, has recently undergone a total transformation. The company has introduced vibrant new packaging and a brand new premises where customers can purchase ink and toner cartridges, or make use of the “Tech Desk” for printer repairs and advice. Rethink Printing still provides an excellent service on all printers and cartridges, a support team that you know and trust, and dedication to providing value on your printing without the restrictions often associated with being part of a franchise. The “Managed Print Service” – in which customers pay a fixed monthly fee to include printer supply, cartridges and all servicing and repairs – is particularly competitive, with the invaluable benefit of Rethink’s Printer Engineers being on-hand when needed. To find out more, call 01432 272233, email info@rethinkprinting.com or pop in and see us at: Unit 2, Mortimer Business Park, The Old Railway Sidings, Mortimer Road, Hereford, HR4 9SP.
A YEAR OF GIVING AND SUPPORT AT MFG SOLICITORS Supporting and advising charities across the two counties continues to be the cornerstone of the CSR strategy at patron’s mfg Solicitors. Led by partner Kirsten Bridgewater, mfg’s CSR Committee has co-ordinated the donation of almost £9,000 to many local charitable causes in the past 12 months. These organisations are selected by employees from each of the firm’s eight offices for the role they play in the community, for families and for individuals. Examples include Worcester Snoezelen, Aspie and the Stroke Association. The firm not only sees its CSR strategy based on donations, but partners across the firm regularly provide advice to charities, helping them operate effectively. Alongside other law firms, mfg’s Private Client division takes part in high-profile will-making initiatives each year, including for Kemp Hospice and St Richard’s Hospice. mfg Solicitors will continue its charitable giving in the months and years ahead as it supports more and more good causes across the region. www.mfgsolicitors.com
GOWLING WLG WINS WEST MIDLANDS COLLABORATIVE ACTION AWARD Patron member Gowling WLG was one of a consortium of professional services firms to win a Collaborative Action award from Business in the Community for its creation of the charity “Suited for Success”. The talented young individuals who worked on the project realised that a lack of suitable interview clothing was holding back homeless and long-term unemployed people. They held a donation drive, provided pro bono advice to find premises, created a brand and website, and set up a referral scheme. Eventually they created Suited for Success, a registered charity. Foodbanks, job clubs, referral agencies and charities now refer their clients to Suited for Success, who provide them with “gently worn” professional clothing for their interviews to get them started in work. Gowling WLG were recognised by Business in the Community for identifying a need within the region that wasn’t being met, and without a budget or brief, meeting that need. www.gowlingwlg.com www.suitedforsuccess.co.uk
www.rethinkprinting.com
STRONG YEAR END RESULTS FOR RIMILIA Rimilia, the leading software company offering its RPA led finance solutions, has secured continued success resulting in strong growth across all sectors during its financial year ending Sunday 31 July. Specialising in Intelligent Finance Solutions and Accounts Receivable, Rimilia achieved overall year on year sales increase by over 40% and maintained profit margins reflecting customer wins across the globe. The year also saw a 30% increase in
010
Rimilia’s Managing Director Chris McGibbon
additional staff members across all departments and the launch of a fully integrated Accounts Receivable solution. Rimilia also moved offices to a new flagship Headquarters in Bromsgrove, which was officially by local Bromsgrove MP, Sajid Javid, in October. Managing Director, Chris McGibbon, said: “Continued investment in development, coupled with a tremendous pipeline, means exciting times are ahead. This is testament to the solutions we
provide and the approach we take with our customers to ensure they enjoy Software And a Service.” www.rimilia.com
November/December 2016
POLICYNEWS
CHAMBER CHAMPIONS SKILLS AT CONSERVATIVE PARTY CONFERENCE Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, alongside seven other Chambers from across the Midlands, hosted a Fringe Event at the Conservative
Policy representatives from Midlands’ Chambers and BCC President Francis Martin
LATEST QES RESULTS: MIXED PICTURE EMERGES POST-BREXIT VOTE The Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) – the region’s largest and most authoritative private sector business survey, based on more than 600 responses from firms in Q3 2016 – shows a mixed picture for the business community. The survey suggests that near-term uncertainty following the vote to leave the European Union has led businesses to lower their expectations for hiring, turnover, and investment in plant, machinery, and training. The results also suggest that the UK economy is still growing - albeit at a lower level than before the referendum - and supports the BCC’s forecast for growth of 1% in 2017. Given this mixed picture, and muted business investment intentions, the BCC is urging the government to use November's Autumn Statement to boost business confidence by giving the green light to key infrastructure projects, and by introducing measures that “crowd in” business investment and job creation.
Party Conference around the skills shortage that many businesses have been experiencing in recent years. The “Transforming Skills in the Midlands” Lunchtime Reception was held at the Birmingham REP Theatre on Tuesday 4 October, seeing over 100 MPs, Business Leaders and other key influencers attend. Speakers included Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), who told guests that businesses need a more locally-focused education system to meet the challenges of future growth. He was speaking a day after Prime Minister Theresa May and Chancellor of the Exchequer Phillip Hammond, speaking
BCC President Francis Martin, Chamber President Andrea Borwell-Fox and CEO Mike Ashton
at the Conference, had confirmed the Government’s commitment to the Midlands Engine for Growth. Transport Secretary Chris Grayling had also committed £12m to Midlands Connect, which is driving better connectivity between towns and cities in the Midlands. Images credit inpressimages
BUSINESSES QUIZ BANK OF ENGLAND OVER BREXIT Speaker line-up including Robin Walker MP
CHAMBER LAUNCHES CHARTER FOR INCLUSIVE GROWTH Theresa May in both her main campaign speech and her prime ministerial address said the test for her government is to deliver an economy that “works for everyone”. Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) are delighted to be taking up this challenge. With the support of Robin Walker MP, we launched the “Charter for Inclusive Growth” on Friday 30 September with an audience of over 70 businesses and charities. The Charter shows that inclusive employment helps businesses grow and prosper. It encourages and aims to assist businesses across the county to take on employees who need extra support, including those with learning and physical disabilities, long term unemployed, ex-offenders and young people with no work experience. The Charter addresses misconceptions about inclusive employment and recognises the benefits to the individual, business and society as a whole.
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Over 70 businesses attended the Chamber’s Annual Bank of England Breakfast to meet with Graeme Chaplin, Bank of England Agent for the West Midlands and Oxfordshire, on Friday 16 September at Hereford Cathedral. Graeme discussed Brexit and other headwinds the economy has faced since our last event in 2015, giving personal insights from his position at the heart of policy making. He also presented the Bank’s latest economic forecasts and explained the role of the Bank in promoting stability in the UK financial sector, particularly in light of recent events. A number of local businesses also took to the floor to pick Graeme’s brains and asked questions around future foreign investment, banking stress testing and the pension’s deficit. Sophia Haywood, Policy Executive, said: “The event was a huge success and it was great to see so many businesses attend from across the two counties – and even beyond – to gain a unique insight in to the running of the Bank of England at such an uncertain time.”
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FOCUSONRECRUITMENT
REVIEW THEIR RECRUITMENT PROCESSES Mainstay Group was founded in 2000 and operates across the UK with its headquarters in Worcester. Mainstay’s key sectors include residential property, asset management, commercial property, estate management, PRS Portfolio, facilities management services and surveying and professional services. These services are provided through Mainstay Residential, Mainstay Commercial and Mainstay Facilities Management. Twelve months ago the group decide to review their recruitment processes and select a new sole supplier to satisfy their ongoing requirements with vacancies ranging from administration and customer services to property management. Mainstay were keen to find a solution that efficiently filled all requirements whilst offering a positive candidate experience and promoting their employer brand. Hewett Recruitment were awarded sole supplier and proceeded to define the process for the most effective candidate attraction and assessment procedures. As ambassadors of the Mainstay brand, Hewett’s were aware of supporting and enhancing the employer brand of Mainstay as an employer of choice. As senior consultant Kate Turnbull explained “It was important to get the recruitment process right from the start. With Mainstay we are working with a company where a number of the roles
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are quite unique that require specific skill sets but where candidates might not have direct experience, what is more essential to achieve is a good personality/team fit. Assessment days can be an excellent way to see how candidates perform in both team and individual exercises. Whether it’s working together and practising how to survive in the wild, completing individual tasks, including personality profiles… the true character of the individual is often revealed. The CV takes a secondary role and is not presented until the end of the process enabling no prejudgments to be made on the individual candidates. This process allows people to shine and has been very successful for this particular client.” Hewett’s creative approach to recruitment means that each customer’s individual requirements are carefully analysed to produce the most effective model of recruitment which can be very different depending on the type of vacancy, skills, geographical location, fit etc. Ben Mannion, Director of Hewett Recruitment explained “Our work with Mainstay has involved much more than the provision of ‘traditional’ recruitment services. As well as arranging assessment days, we have spent time consulting with the senior management team to standardise the recruitment process and have provided training for line managers on interview skills to ensure successful outcomes and positive candidate experiences.”
Hewett’s have successfully placed 36 personnel since the beginning of 2016, using a wide range of attraction channels to maintain a constant flow of new candidate registrations. Luke Sanders, Group MD commented “Since engaging with Hewett Recruitment on a sole supplier basis we have been impressed by their ability to deliver against Mainstay’s requirements whilst building a close partnership with stakeholders at all levels. A particular success has been the Assessment Days that Hewett Recruitment have arranged to identify individuals with the right personality, strengths and aptitudes to be a success at Mainstay, rather than focusing on specific experience within a role which can be hard to come by.”
Luke Sanders, Group MD
www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk
November/December 2016
FOCUSONFINANCE
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BUSINESSNEWS
USING OUTSOURCING TO TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS Creating a flexible work-force has its challenges. Finding the right skills, knowledge, expertise and professionalism in just one person can be tricky. The added challenge of creating a team that can adapt to the changing needs of a business and create results often means that projects struggle to get off the ground. Maxim Lifting Services Ltd, a successful
Midlands based business specialising in Contract Lifting, have utilised outsourcing to support important back-office tasks and kick start specific projects.
and experience and it has freed up my time to focus on the strategic direction of the business. I now feel better prepared to build a team and grow my business”.
Ben Holliday, Owner, said: “Outsourcing has given us the flexibility to try new approaches, test our ideas and create a dynamic business environment. We have been able to tap into varied skills
Source&Effect provide Outsourced Business Support and have recently launched a Tailored Recruitment Service, Source&Recruit. www.sourceandeffect.com
Enjoying the view atop the Atlas Mountains
L-R: Laura Bolon, Warriors; Carl Arntzen, CEO Worcester Bosch; Leyton Williams, Warriors; Steve Lister, Worcester Bosch; Dave Rogers, Warriors
Arctic Circle receives iDEC training from Brightest Bulb
PROFIT FROM COLLABORATION Three locally based companies have collaborated in a piece of mutually beneficial business. New Chamber members, Brightest Bulb, have successfully delivered their two-day training course to Strategic Chamber member Arctic Circle, using the wonderful facilities of fellow Strategic Chamber member Stanbrook Abbey Hotel and Conference Centre. Brightest Bulb, via their iDEC™ (Individual, Director, Editor, Cameraperson) training approach, teach employees to create effective EGV (employee generated video) on their smart phones. Managing Director of Arctic Circle, Debbie Gittoes, said: “Like most companies these days, we need to generate regular video content. For the cost of a one-day professional video shoot, we can up-skill one of our employees to be capable of creating an endless supply of videos.” To learn more about this successful collaboration, including interviews with Debbie Gittoes, Gary Aymes and Mike Ashton, watch the video here: www. brightest-bulb.com www.brightest-bulb.com www.acl-online.com www.stanbrookabbey.com
WARRIORS ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP Warriors have announced a new three-year deal with long-term partner Worcester, Bosch Group. The leading manufacturer of heating systems has agreed to become the sponsor of the Warriors Community Department as well as backing the team by placing their logo on the back of the Warriors home and away shirts. The community partnership will see Warriors working with Worcester Bosch to raise awareness of the opportunities in engineering within Worcestershire. This includes the Worcester Bosch Initiative, which will see schools creating a product and presenting it - Dragons’ Den style - to local business leaders. The winning school will see their product brought to life and sold in the Sixways Store with profits going back to the school.
CHAMBER CHAIRMAN RAISES OVER £4K In September, Jim McBride embarked on an 85 mile trek of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. As well as a personal challenge, Jim used the trek to fundraise for Megan Baker House, a Leominster based charity of which he is a trustee. Supported by many of the business community, Jim raised over £4000, which will support children with cerebral palsy, dyspraxia and other motor related disorders. Jim said: “When I decided to take on the High Atlas Mountain Challenge rather than a 65th birthday party little did I know how hard it would be! I can now say that ‘wild’ camping is a phrase to be avoided at all times.
Warriors Partnerships Manager, Leyton Williams, said: “We are delighted to renew our partnership with Worcester Bosch as they have been supporters of the Club for a long time. Our new partnership focuses on a key area for both businesses - the community.”
Apart from the 85 miles trekked I have also climbed the equivalent of ascending higher than Everest from sea level, over 10,000 metres - a great challenge.
www.warriors.co.uk
www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ Jim-McBride-Atlas
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Thank you to all who supported me and Megan Baker House, but take it from me, never again!”
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BUSINESSNEWS Rural Media’s new post production facilities
BUSINESS BOOST FOR COLLINGWOOD FIRST AID The homepage of www. cbcharteredaccountants.com
CB, CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE TOP QUALITY FILM AND VIDEO ON OUR DOORSTEP Award-winning charity Rural Media has established a new commercial arm, RURAL MEDIA PRODUCTIONS, offering professional digital production in the heart of the West Midlands - with all profits feeding back into the Charity’s work using film, media and digital arts to educate, influence change and celebrate rural life. “We’ve been operating out of Hereford for 25 years, and the launch of RURAL MEDIA PRODUCTIONS is very exciting,” says CEO Nic Millington. “It not only gives businesses access to our expertise, but also generates income that can be used for the great causes championed by the Charity. The digital creative industries will prove more important in the coming years, and we aim to keep Herefordshire apace with the rest of the world by offering access to our top-drawer facilities.” If you want to commission Rural Media to help build your brand, please visit ruralmedia.co.uk or contact Rich Matthews (richm@ruralmedia.co.uk).
CB, Chartered Accountants are excited to announce the launch of their newly designed website, www.cbcharteredaccountants.com. The firm worked alongside Wolverhampton-based digital agency Phenix Digital to create a faster, easier to navigate, and more user-friendly website utilising video throughout. John Painter, Managing Partner, said: “We believe CB, Chartered Accountants are the most technologically advanced accountancy practice in Worcestershire. We have already demonstrated our commitment to technology by launching a mobile app in addition to promoting the use of cloud based accounting.” “It’s important for us to make information on our solutions and services easily accessible for our current and prospective clients. We endeavour to provide the most accurate, up-to-date information and share our knowledge and expertise.” “We wanted to give people the opportunity to get to know us better, understand a little about the firm and our innovative services such as the fixed fee accounting packages.” www.cbcharteredaccountants.com
www.ruralmedia.co.uk
SHOWCASING CSR – DRG One company that is showing their commitment to their local community is DRG, a well-established Commercial Building Contractor specialising in refurbishment of offices, and conversion of old buildings into new apartments. DRG’s dedicated work force is predominantly from Worcestershire.
Director Dan Gregory comments: “The team works well as I have used the same people for years and we try and use local companies that we trust; this results in a better finish for our apartments”. DRG even house their workforce in rented apartments to ensure they keep the best people on the job and use local suppliers where possible, supporting the community and reducing their carbon footprint. www.drg-solutions.co.uk
A Hereford firm has received a business boost from Retail Entrepreneur Theo Paphitis. Owner Mark Collingwood tweeted Theo during “Small Business Sunday” and was one of six weekly winners to gain a retweet by Theo to his 500,000 Twitter followers. The weekly initiative has 1700 #SBS winners and supports small businesses in the UK. Mark said: “We’ve been in business six years and it’s tough trying to raise our profile. Theo has recognised our hard work and helped spread the word about what we do.” www.collingwoodfirstaid.co.uk
APPROVAL FOR THE WOBBLY BREWING COMPANY The Wobbly Brewing Company has recently been approved under the new HMRC Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme. Anyone who supplies or manufactures alcohol must gain AWRS status. This includes wholesale companies, breweries and cider makers. The main aim of the scheme is to stop the illicit manufacture and supply of alcohol. To gain approval, the team spent several months reading, analysing and preparing systems and documents, and translating this to control systems. Charlene Downes and Mark Jones worked closely with customers and suppliers requesting information, enabling the company to control and document beers and ciders coming into Wobbly Brewing for secondary processes. They also introduced stock control systems, to control the amount and types of grain used in the manufacture of beers The approval opens the door for the Wobbly Brewing Company to supply their beers to a greater number of customers in the UK and further afield. www.wobblybrewing.co.uk
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November/December 2016
ADVERTORIALFEATURE
Huw Ponting Director 01432 806 990 hponting@novumlaw.com
5 steps to making a personal injury claim after a cycling accident Inspired by Team GB’s amazing gold winning performances in Rio this summer and not forgetting London 2012, cycling is becoming more popular than ever. However, it is not without its risks and unfortunately, accidents do happen. Staying alert, obeying the rules of the road and not taking unnecessary risks while cycling are all very important; but if the worst happens and you do have a serious accident that isn’t your fault, here are five essential steps you need to do take to make a personal injury claim for compensation: Step 1 - Gather evidence Make sure you obtain the names and telephone numbers of the driver(s) and any potential witnesses. If possible, you need the registration number, make, model and colour of any vehicles involved. Ideally, a photo of the scene of the accident can be extremely helpful. If you are knocked off your bike by a vehicle, you should always report the incident to the police. Step 2 - Ensure you receive appropriate medical treatment If you are injured, make sure you seek medical treatment, even if you think your injuries are minor. It’s always advisable to get medical advice and if you go to your local accident and emergency department (or your doctor) this is evidence you sustained injuries in the crash.
@Novumlaw Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Step 3 - Keep your damaged bicycle and other items Your damaged bicycle and other items such as your safety helmet are important evidence should you wish to pursue a compensation claim. It’s therefore vital you don’t dispose of any broken property. It may also help when the value of your damaged equipment is being assessed. If you can, it’s always worthwhile getting a quote for the cost of repairs or finding out how much a replacement bike would cost. Step 4 - Contact a local specialist personal injury solicitor Instruct a local, experienced, expert law firm, such as Novum Law to guide you through the compensation process. Above all, be wary of insurance companies making low value ‘early settlement’ offers. By contacting a local, specialist solicitor, you’ll be able to meet them face-to-face when it’s convenient for you and have an expert on hand should you have any questions or concerns about your case. Step 5 - Keep a detailed record of your expenses Any out-of-pocket expenses you incur as a result of the accident, such as: days off work; bus fares/petrol; time spent by loved ones or professionals looking after you after the accident, etc. should all be meticulously recorded. These ongoing expenses can then be included as part of your compensation claim. Novum Law is a national firm of specialist personal injury solicitors with offices in Hereford that can help if you, or someone close to you, has been injured in an accident that wasn’t their fault.
For more information and a free no obligation chat, please get in contact: www.novumlaw.com 017
SKILLS
SUPPORTING EMPLOYMENT IN WORCESTERSHIRE The Supported Employment Service at Worcestershire County Council is working with public and private sector employers to create real jobs for people with a learning disability. We are helping people to keep sustained paid employment but many more would welcome the opportunity to access
new work experience and employment opportunities.
looking for the next step. Most are looking for a small amount of hours.
The Council’s “Ability not Disability” Scheme has been supporting internal paid placements but is now keen to work with socially responsible business; securing jobs and helping candidates contribute to economy and community.
We provide bespoke support to businesses and the individual. We match candidates to the most appropriate job and support businesses to employ, train and retain candidates.
Some candidates are leaving education and looking to develop a career; others have skills from voluntary work and are
To find out more, contact Sally-Ann Parker on 01905 844393/ 07715044118 or saparker@worcestershire.gov.uk.
RELAUNCHED SIXTH FORM CENTRE OPENED BY MAYOR RGS Launches New Enterprise and Employability Course
Young Enterprise students and staff from Harrison Clark Rickerbys
RGS LAUNCHES ENTERPRISE AND EMPLOYABILITY SCHEME
ENCOURAGING NEW ENTREPRENEURS Entrepreneurship can start early and the chance to start your own business, with the backing of a mentor, is invaluable. Young Enterprise gives teenagers that chance, with the support of local businesses such as law firm Harrison Clark Rickerbys. Jack Powell and Marc Lazarus, who work in the firm’s Hereford office, gave their time as mentors, helping students at the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford to develop their business, supporting them through the whole process. Jack said: “I would really recommend mentoring - we helped them to work through their business ideas and to put them into practice; raising their initial capital, for instance.” Mentoring gave Marc the chance to contribute and the reward of instant results – he said: “You see the students change and progress week by week; it is great to see them take control of their own destiny.” For more information, contact Grace Perks on 07867 001849 or at grace. perks@y-e.org.uk. www.hcrlaw.com
L to R: Mrs Susan Marlow, Mrs Pamela Leek-Wright, Mary Rayner, Dr Nicholas Tate and Dr Melanie Hinton.
Kidderminster Mayor Mary Rayner and guest of honour Dr Nicholas Tate joined students and staff at Holy Trinity School for the official opening of the “Tate Suite” in the school’s newly extended Sixth Form Centre. Headteacher Mrs Pamela Leek-Wright commented: “We are extremely privileged to have the on-going support of someone with the experience and depth of understanding that Dr Tate has. His passion for education is always a good reminder of what teaching is truly about and it seemed only fitting that we named our new Sixth Form suite after him.” Dr Tate commented: “Revisiting the school two years after it re-opened as a Free School, I am impressed with how it is going from strength to strength - excellent SAT and GCSE results, extensive physical refurbishment, an expanding Sixth Form and now this attractive Sixth Form suite of rooms with which I am honoured to be associated.”
An exciting new venture is underway at RGS Worcester to show students the vast and varied possibilities that entrepreneurial endeavour can offer. As part of the Enrichment Programme, and in partnership with the Business School at the University of Worcester, all Lower Sixth students have the opportunity to start their own business. The launch coincided with the third Annual Worcestershire Festival of Business, where students heard from Dr David Bozward, Senior Lecturer in Entrepreneurship at the University. Students will learn about the process of developing business plans, mentored by individuals from the business world. They will learn to identify target markets, complete market research, deal with all the financial aspects of running a business, as well as adopting the soft skills, which are crucial for a successful business. The programme will culminate in pitching for seed capital at the end of this term before beginning to trade in next term. www.rgsw.org.uk
www.holytrinity.co.uk
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November/December 2016
FINANCEMATTERS
LAST CHANCE FOR OFFSHORE TAX EVADERS
HMRC have launched a new disclosure facility giving offshore tax evaders a final chance to settle any outstanding tax on wealth hidden offshore.
HMRC launched the Worldwide Disclosure Facility (WDF) on 5 September 2016, following the closure of offshore disclosure facilities such as the Liechtenstein Disclosure Facility at the end of last year. HMRC announced at the time that one final disclosure facility would be launched to enable those with offshore irregularities to come clean to the taxman, but there has been little detail about how this will work until now. The move comes ahead of their planned introduction for new data sharing arrangements and tougher penalties on tax evasion. Over 100 countries have now committed to new international agreements that will allow HMRC to access even more data about overseas accounts held by taxpayers. According to HMRC’s figures, tackling tax evasion brought in £26.6bn by tackling tax evasion and avoidance in 2014-15. Since 2010, £2.5bn has been raised from moves to tackle offshore tax evasion. The WDF is available to anyone who is disclosing a UK tax liability that relates
wholly or in part to an offshore issue. This includes: n Income arising from a source outside the UK n Assets situated or held outside the UK n Activities carried on wholly or mainly outside the UK n Where the funds connected to unpaid tax are transferred outside the UK Anyone wishing to disclose a UK tax liability in relation to the above is eligible to use the WDF. You first need to notify HMRC that you will be making a disclosure. Once you have notified HMRC, you will have 90 days to: n Collate the information needed to complete the disclosure, n Calculate the final liabilities including tax, duty, interest and penalties, and n Complete the disclosure, using the unique disclosure reference number provided when notifying. The WDF offers no special settlement terms, unlike earlier schemes which offered reduced penalties. This means that those who come forward will pay the tax in full, with interest, and they could still face criminal prosecution. There are a number of consultations running at the moment looking at the level of penalty/sanctions to be imposed on those who do not come forward during this disclosure opportunity, bearing in
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
mind that this is the is the last of many facilities aimed specifically at offshore issues. One suggestion is that there will be a penalty of between 100% and 200% of the tax due if someone is discovered to have not used this disclosure opportunity when they should. The WDF will run until September 2018. It is possible to make a disclosure under the WDF using the Digital Disclosure Service (DDS) launched in April this year. According to HMRC, one of the benefits of the DDS is that it removed the need for taxpayers to seek advice and help from accountants and professional advisors, as they can disclose by themselves. However, we would strongly advise against disclosing by yourself if you are considering using the WDF. Professional support can make it much easier to collect the required information, ensure your calculations are correct and negotiate the best possible settlement terms within the required 90 day deadline. If you are considering making a voluntary disclosure under the Worldwide Disclosure Facility, contact us for your free, confidential consultation today.
Tel: 01905 777600 mail@ormerodrutter.co.uk www.ormerodrutter.co.uk @OrmerodRutter
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BUSINESSNEWS
HOTEL CHOCOLAT LAUNCHES IN WORCESTER WITH HELP FROM PRINT STRATEGY EUROPE It’s another great endorsement of Worcester City Centre that such a dynamic brand as Hotel Chocolat have opened their new concept café and store in Cathedral Place.
Since 2008, Print Strategy Europe have provided Point of Sale displays, signage, invites and postcards, product catalogues, name badges and branded store uniforms for each of Hotel Chocolat’s new store openings.
Managing Director Rob Newton explains:
WORCESTER WIN BEST CONSUMER WEBSITE AT THE DIGI AWARDS Worcester, Bosch Group has come out on top once again, this time for its new consumer website. In its most recent win, the heating and hot water brand scooped Best Consumer Website at the 2016 Digi Awards, held at The Ministry of Sound in London. The new website which was developed with DRP Digital in 2015 was launched to provide customers with a one-stop-shop of useful tools and resources. From researching heating solutions, to looking for tips on improving efficiency or product advice, the intuitive and mobile friendly design allows users to find the information quickly and easily.
Following an excellent nine months of broadcasting across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Like Radio have launched a brand new product called Like Audio, which offers businesses tailored and bespoke business audio solutions. Effectively you could call it a business’ very own radio station at an excellent price! It is delivered via the Like Audio cloud directly to the business via a standard internet connection. All that is required is a small box which connects to the internet and the business audio system. The clever little box can also be used for hold music systems.
When the store opened in August it was the 50th store that Print Strategy Europe have helped Hotel Chocolat to open, making it a landmark both for Worcester and for the family owned print management business based in Droitwich.
The new Worcester café and store follows successful openings in Cambridge, Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, London’s Covent Garden and York and will serve its trademark real hot chocolate, their full range of luxury chocolates and the delicious “Ice Cream Of The Gods”.
LIKE AUDIO - TAILORED BUSINESS AUDIO SOLUTIONS
To launch the product, Like Audio are also offering free radio advertising with it. Prices start at £300 for a single unit, with discounts available for multi units/sites. Print Strategy’s MD Rob Newton celebrating the 50th Hotel Chocolat store they have helped to launch
“It’s been a real privilege to be a small part of Hotel Chocolat’s huge success story and we’re really excited that everyone in Worcester can now enjoy the New Café and Shop experience”. www.printstrategy.eu
Worcester, Bosch Group with Digi Award
After reviewing its former website and identifying common searches, the digital agency were able to develop more refined user friendly features. The website now hosts a series of “frequently asked questions” and helpful videos, plus a refined “find an installer” feature. To take a look at Worcester’s new website, visit www.worcester-bosch. co.uk.
To find out more, contact 01432 488 997 or email sales@likeradiouk.com www.likeradiouk.com
DRP CELEBRATES NEW EXPANSION WITH DRPBIGTALK ‘drpBIGtalk’, an interactive day full of tours, thought leadership sessions and entertainment, was the official opening of drp’s brand new building extension. This 4.2 acre site on the Ikon Trading Estate, in the Midlands, is the largest corporate creative production facility of its kind in the UK. drp unveiled the state-of-the-art headquarters to existing and potential clients with ‘drpBIGtalk’, an occasion full of insight and innovation with industry leading panelists and experts. David Meade, one of Europe’s most dynamic keynote speakers kick started the event with the power of engagement, followed by Samantha Wilson, one of the UK’s top sustainability gurus. drp has doubled their office spaces and capacity across the entire business. The bespoke facilities in the Midlands now include eight fully equipped edit suites, three state-of-the-art studios, digital innovation labs, a dedicated print facility, 3D projection cinema, construction centre, contemporary design suite and fresh new additions ‘The Park’ and Studio 3. www.drpgroup.com
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November/December 2016
ADVERTORIALFEATURE
NEW WYRE FOREST BUSINESS SOLUTIONS CENTRE TO OPEN ITS DOORS Forest region, following on from the success we have had in other areas.”
A fifth Business Solutions Centre (BSC) is set to open in Wyre Forest this month following the resounding success of other local Centres including the Hereford Business Solutions Centre based on Skylon Park; home of the Hereford Enterprise Zone.
Working in partnership with Wyre Forest District Council and brought to you by the University of Wolverhampton, the new Wyre Forest BSC will be based within Wyre Forest House, a council building, located on Finepoint Way in Kidderminster. The support on offer to businesses across the Wyre Forest region will include start-up advice with workshops and mentoring, access to technology from drone hire to cyber security support, leadership and
Councillor Ian Hardiman, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Regeneration at Wyre Forest District Council, adds “the new centre will act as a conduit between local businesses, advisors, consultants and key support organisations to help local businesses access funding and support opportunities open to them.” The Centre will be open to all local businesses from Friday 21 October.
development programmes, seminars, events and networking opportunities. The Centre will also benefit from free parking and a range of meeting rooms & facilities for hire at competitive rates.
To find out more, visit http:// businesssolutionscentres.co.uk/wyreforest, call: 01562 732 212 or email: wyreforest@ businesssolutionscentres.co.uk @BSCentres Business Solutions Centres businesssolutionscentres
Professor Ian Oakes, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Wolverhampton, said: “We have extended our support for businesses into the Wyre
SimpliWiFi is a specialist wireless network solutions provider with a broad variety of active locations across the UK. Our Guest WiFi solutions include Healthcare, Enterprise, Hospitality, Retail, Public sector, Education, Stadium, Outdoor and Event WiFi. We have creative, affordable and most importantly reliable ways to physically get the internet to your remote field site – and enough of it to handle a full commercial event.
For more information, contact us on Tel: 01544 327 310 Email: hello@simpliwifi.co.uk www.simpliwifi.co.uk
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Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
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CHAMBERTRAINING
INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT Our series of Management courses are aimed at new managers and team leaders as well as those who wish to refresh their expertise, go back to basics and re-assess the skills they currently have with new ideas and strategies.
THE ROLE OF THE TEAM LEADER (INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT)
MANAGING PEOPLE IN THE TEAM
This course looks at the role in detail, where it sits in the hierarchy, recognising levels of authority, expectations of the team and the management. We look at the skills that are needed:
Taking responsibility for the standards: a key part of the team leader’s role, managing poor performance as well as motivating good performance.
Communication – ensuring that you are clear and understood, acting as a conduit for information coming down from management and going back up from the team. Delegating work effectively – a key skill in team leading, recognising the skills of individuals or their development needs and helping people enhance their skills with real work experience. Representing the team – a significant part of the Team Leader’s role is to represent the Team at other levels of the organisation; key to this is loyalty and professionalism. Achieving the goals and targets set for the team – it is important that the Team Leader shares the responsibility for achieving the team’s goals and targets. Leading from the front but affecting the performance of everyone in the team. How to motivate good performance from individuals and from each of the team members, recognising that we all have different motivational drivers and how to use that in effectively leading teams.
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Delegates will leave with an idea of what good management practice looks like and the ability to self assess their own management practices. We look at the role of the manager in the workplace both as a leader and as a major part
This course focuses on the responsibilities for individuals within the manager’s role.
Managing behaviour – setting out the expectations of the organisation and the team. Clearly indicating what is acceptable and what cannot be accepted. Using the rules of the organisation to manage predictable and safe behaviour within the team and learning about your personality “colour profile”. Dealing with more demanding team members – initially informally but formally when necessary, to ensure that working in the team is a safe and enjoyable environment. Managing conflict between team members – there are times when even the most cohesive teams fall out, and when different groups within the team conflict with each other. Team Leaders need to ensure that this natural conflict is managed and that it does not act as a distraction that divides the team.
of the team who knows when to step back and allow the team to work independently, aware of the strengths of the individuals they manage.
MANAGING PERFORMANCE IN THE TEAM This course discusses ways to successfully use your skills to help your team gel and make sure performance is optimal. You will look at how to: Set goals and standards - Let the team know exactly what is expected of them and have clear measurable goals and performance standards. Measure performance – Teams work together to accomplish goals, but individuals make up those teams. Assessing performance of individuals and having practical strategies in place to improve the team’s and individual’s performance. Improve the impact of feedback – too often we don’t improve a situation when we give feedback; this session will help team leaders plan effectively to give feedback in a positive and constructive way. Use basic coaching or instruction techniques - to improve performance and skill levels in the team. Resetting standards and managing competence.
Creating an environment of trust – working together to resolve issues can enhance the team, creating a stronger bond and clarity of direction. These sessions will help Team Leaders build the skills and confidence to manage difficult people and situations.
November/December 2016
CHAMBERBUSINESSTRAINING
TRAINING CALENDAR NOVEMBER 2016 - JANUARY 2017 NOVEMBER COURSES
DECEMBER COURSES
JANUARY COURSES
Handling Distributor Contracts Tuesday 8 November - 09.30am-1.00pm £100+VAT Members, £125+VAT Non-members
Conducting Effective Team Appraisals Thursday 1 December - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members
Effective Presentation Skills Wednesday 11 January - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members
AEO Awareness Thursday 10 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members
Effective Time Management Tuesday 6 December - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT
Writing Effective Marketing Copy Thursday 12 January - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members
Non-members Search Engine Optimisation Tuesday 15 November - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members Quality Manager Training – ISO9001 Wednesday 16 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £236+VAT Members, £295+VAT Non-members Surviving a Customs Audit Wednesday 16 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members Basic Export Documentation & Procedures Thursday 17 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members The Language of International Communication Thursday 17 November - 9.30am-12.30pm £100+VAT Members, £125+VAT Non-members Successful Telesales Tuesday 22 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members
Managing Performance in the Team Thursday 8 December - 9.30am-4.30pm £155+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Advanced Microsoft Excel 2010 Friday 9 December - 9.30am-4.30pm £155+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Direct Shipping Monday 12 December - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members IPR (Inward Processing Relief) Tuesday 13 December - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members Google Analytics Tuesday 13 December - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members Basic Export Documentation & Procedures Wednesday 14 December – 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members
Intermediate Microsoft Excel Friday 13 January - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Effective Use Of Social Media Tuesday 17 January - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members Finance Skills for Managers & Team Leaders Thursday 19 January - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Basic Import Documentation & Procedures Thursday 26 January - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members Introduction to Project Management Thursday 27 January - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Fire Marshal Training Monday 30 January - 10.00am-4.00pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members
Tariff Classification Wednesday 23 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members Email Marketing Thursday 24 November - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members International Trade Compliance Management Tuesday 29 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members
For more information and bookings contact us on 01905 673 611, training@hwchamber.co.uk. www.hwchamber.co.uk/training Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
KEY: Chamber Business Training Courses Import and Export Training Courses
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CHAMBEREVENTS L-R: Debbie, Sue, Cassie, Andrea, Sharon, Emma and Cherry
WHY ATTEND A CHAMBER NETWORKING EVENT? Networking events are the ideal way to make new contacts within the two counties. Tracy Reck, Director of Exuberant Personal Training, says: “Chamber Events are consistently and without doubt, the best networking events I’ve attended (and in over four years in business I’ve attended a LOT of different ones!). Whether it’s a breakfast, a women’s business forum, an expo or a conference, Chamber Networking always leaves me feeling happy, connected and confident I’ve done something positive for my business and my brand.
TWO COUNTIES LADIES ENJOY WOMEN’S BUSINESS CONFERENCE In association with borwell Ltd Over 100 women from across the two counties met for a day of inspirational speakers, networking and delicious food at The Abbey Hotel, Malvern in September as the Chamber hosted its third Women’s Business Conference. After a fun, tower building icebreaking activity, delegates settled down to hear the remarkable life story of Debbie Gittoes, Managing Director of Arctic Circle. Debbie accredits her success to resilience, innovation and fostering an ethos of “being all you can be”. Cherry Blumberg, newly appointed Managing Director of Orchard Valley Foods Limited, told us how she has grown in confidence since learning to remove “the imposter from the room”. Emma Chetwynd-Jarvis, Rock Power
NEW EVESHAM BREAKFAST We are excited to be relaunching the Evesham Networking Breakfast at Karndean Flooring, Vale Park, Evesham from 7:30–9:30am on Tuesday 22 November. Attendees will enjoy bacon rolls and
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Connections, shared her insights into working in a highly dominated male sector. Emma is very pleased to see that more women are accepting the opportunities to join the energy industry. The final speaker was Sue Riches, who gave a humorous account of her expedition to the Arctic with her daughter and an all-female team. Additionally, the event raised almost £400 for St Richard’s Hospice, which was gratefully received by Rachel Jones. Lee Gough, from Megan Baker House, said: “Thank you for Friday’s Women’s Business Conference, it was brilliant. It’s one of my favourite events of the year and is now firmly in my diary.”
"The team that run the events are a pleasure to deal with and have always supported me and my business. They have offered me opportunities to speak at breakfasts, which really helped me develop my speaking skills, but also make me feel welcome and at home. They’re a really creative bunch and as such have put together meetings that make networking that bit more interesting, like being able to finish up the morning on a driving range. If you haven’t already, get along to a Chamber networking event. You’ll meet some great people and leave feeling like you’ve expanded your network in a really positive way.” To view a full calendar of events, visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/events
SAVE THE DATE!!!! Chamber Business Expo Thursday 2 March 2017 Three Counties Showground
networking before hearing from Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, as well as Shawn Riley and Chris Brookes from Wychavon District Council. This event is FREE for Chamber members and £17.50+VAT for Non-Members. To book, please visit events@hwchamber.co.uk
The Expo is always a brilliant opportunity for businesses to make new contacts, to be inspired and to win business. To find out about our most recent event, visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/expo To request an exhibition booking form, please email events@hwchamber.co.uk
November/December 2016
CHAMBEREVENTS
NETWORKING CALENDAR NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2016 NOVEMBER 2016
DECEMBER 2016
Bromsgrove Networking Lunch Friday 4 November - 12.30-2.30pm Grafton Manor, Grafton Lane, Bromsgrove B61 7HA £20.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members
Droitwich Wellbeing Networking Breakfast Thursday 1 December - 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
Redditch Golf Networking Breakfast Tuesday 8 November - 7.30-9.30am Abbey Hotel Golf Club and Spa Resort, Hither Green Lane, Dagnell End Road, Redditch B98 9BE £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members
Maximise Your Membership Event Friday 2 December - 8.30-11.00am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ FREE to Chamber Members
Manufacturing Forum sponsored by University of Wolverhampton Wednesday 9 November - 8.00-10.30am B Hepworth & Co Ltd, 4 Merse Road, North Moons Moat, Redditch, B98 9HL FREE and exclusive to manufacturers (including breakfast)
Ross-on-Wye Networking Brunch Tuesday 6 December - 9.30-11.30am Penyard House, Weston-under-Penyard, Herefordshire HR9 7YH £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members
Worcester Wine and Cheese Evening Thursday 10 November - 5.30–7.00pm Bottles Wine Bar, 22-24 New Street, Worcester WR1 2DP £20.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members
Worcester Networking Breakfast Thursday 8 December - 7.30-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members
Malvern Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Tuesday 15 November - 6.00-8.00pm Anupam, 85 Church Street, Great Malvern WR14 2AE £20.00+VAT Members and Non-members Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 16 November - 7.30-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf, Tillington Road, Burghill, Hereford HR4 7RW £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Evesham Networking Breakfast Tuesday 22 November - 7.30-9.30am Karndean Flooring, Vale Park, Crab Apple Way, Evesham WR11 1GP FREE to Chamber Members and £17.50+VAT Non-members
Hereford HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Wednesday 14 December - 9.30-11.30am Hereford Business Solutions Centre - Building B, Units 1-4, Skylon Court, Rotherwas, Hereford, HR2 6JS FREE event for Chamber Members and clients of Hewett Recruitment, £30.00+VAT Non-members Worcester Women’s Business Forum in association with borwell Ltd Thursday 15 December - 9.30am-12.00pm Elms Hotel & Spa, Stockton Rd, Abberley, Worcester, WR6 6AT £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members
Hereford Women’s Business Forum in association with Thorne Widgery Accountancy Tuesday 29 November - 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 Kidderminster Networking Lunch Wednesday 30 November - 12.30-2.30pm Hogarths Stone Manor Hotel, Chaddesley Corbett, Kidderminster DY10 4PJ £20.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members
To book your place on any of these events visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/events, email events@hwchamber. co.uk or phone 01905 673 600. Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
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BUSINESSNEWS
PARACHUTE IN THE SKILLS YOU NEED NOW
NETWORKING CLUB RETURNS TO HEREFORD Thursday Connections (formerly known as First Thursday Club) is sponsored by Harrison Clark Rickerbys, Business Checkmate Ltd, RRA Architects, Business Solutions Centre and Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce. Sponsors take turns in organising the events to ensure the location and turnout is kept new, fresh and interesting to generate enjoyable yet productive networking! We are pleased to have successfully launched Thursday Connections at Cellar Door in Hereford in October, which saw a sterling attendance of almost 70 delegates all looking to connect and build quality contacts. Thursday Connections runs every second month, on the first Thursday of the month, with a relaxed format. The sponsors firmly believe that Hereford has a wide variety of fantastic local businesses and wish to support and nurture key contacts. If you are interested in joining please email ThursdayConnections@mail.com or search @ThursConnect on Twitter. The next event is on Thursday 1 December 2016 from 5:30-7:30pm (venue TBC).
Andrew Grant presents Winsted with the formal Grant of Appointment of The Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2016
ROYAL AWARD FOR EXPORTING SUCCESS Bromsgrove based Winsted has been formally presented with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade by the Deputy Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Mr Andrew Grant. Recognised internationally, the award is the highest official UK business award and acknowledges the successful internationalisation strategy that Winsted has adopted in recent years. Members of the Winsted team were addressed by the Deputy Lieutenant for their contribution to the industry and awarded a certificate of Her Majesty’s warrant, and a crystal bowl in recognition. Making the presentation, the Deputy Lieutenant said: “The Queen’s Award for Enterprise are awarded to the very best companies. Winsted has proven themselves to be one of those companies”. The award is the third Queen's Award received by the company; the first award received in 2012, the year of the Queen's Jubilee, with the latest award received during the years of the Queen's 90th birthday.
The demand for a flexible workforce continues to grow across the UK. Hewett’s specialist consultants across IT, Engineering and Finance are offering contractors and interims to meet the needs of businesses across the region. Organisations can access individuals or teams of specialists for short or long term projects offering an immediate solution within a precise budget and flexile timescale. Parachuting in skills and expertise without the need for prolonged training and ramping up enables local employers to act swiftly to new opportunities and promptly address any shortfall in their current skills base. Ben Mannion, Strategic Director at Hewett’s, commented: “The ability to quickly bring on board key skills in order to deliver a particular project or piece of change is invaluable. Hewett Recruitment’s specialist Consultants are able to source the best contract and interim talent in the local area, whilst also ensuring 100% compliance with all relevant legislation to ensure peace of mind for our clients.” For more information contact Ben Mannion ben@hewett-recruitment.co.uk www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk
Ben Mannion, Strategic Development Director at Hewett’s
www.winsted.com
SURVEY REVEALS SECRET LIFE OF BUSINESS OWNERS Company owners are playing a dangerous game when it comes to risk management and their own financial future according to a recent survey by Haines Watts accountants. The study reveals that business owners in the West Midlands are drawing the lowest
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salaries in the UK and are investing heavily in their companies in the hope they can retire early.
huge risks with their financial future. If these were my clients I would be strongly urging them to make contingency plans.”
Karen McLellan, Managing Director at Haines Watts Hereford, comments: “It doesn’t take an accountant to see that the financial position of many respondents doesn’t add up to early retirement. Company owners who are ploughing all their money into the business are taking
The ‘For Love or Money’ survey is based on interviews with owners of £1m-£50m turnover companies. It reveals the earnings, wealth and spending habits of UK business leaders and explores their motivations for running a business. www.hwca.com/for-love-or-money
November/December 2016
ADVERTORIALFEATURE
WILL YOU BE SAFE FROM CYBER ATTACKS OVER THIS FESTIVE PERIOD? 2. Online Backup – allowing you to backup and retrieve emails, files and databases safely and quickly
Minster know that IT system security is paramount to businesses. However, a recent report from the Government has found that only half of all firms have taken any recommended actions to identify threats and address vulnerabilities.
Even fewer, about a third of all firms, had a formal written cyber security policy and only 10% had an incident management plan in place (www.gov.uk/government/news). Without the right protection it’s easy for your system to catch a potentially business-threatening virus. Therefore, Minster suggest you invest time over this festive period to ensure your business is thoroughly protected. To help with this, Minster’s Sentinel
3. Mail protect – providing email spam and virus filtering 4. Mail archive – helping to easily manage and organise all of your emails 5. Bitdefender – managed anti-virus system that will protect your system from threats
System Care offers many different tools which, when used together, can provide the ultimate shield against much of the fraudulent activity that’s affecting the business world. An innovative programme that provides automated care for your infrastructure, Sentinel System Care with Bitdefender can help you in five key areas; 1. System Monitoring – ensuring your most important IT assets are available and running correctly
Aside from these benefits, Sentinel also performs checks on your servers and networks to ensure your most important IT tools are running smoothly. For more information on how Sentinel can be your cost-effective defence against damaging threats, call Minster on 01562 68211 for more information. The Minster team would like to wish all chamber members a very merry Christmas and a prosperous new year!
£2.2M BUSINESS LOAN FUND TO SUPPORT WORCESTERSHIRE SMES Cllr Ken Pollock, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Economy, Skills and Infrastructure said: “This loan fund will be a tremendous boost for those businesses who are having difficulties getting finance despite having a strong business case. The fund has been a resounding success in other areas and we are very positive about what it can achieve here, specifically assisting business growth, protecting jobs and building the local economy by overcoming access to finance issues.”
A brand new business loan fund has been introduced to support growing Worcestershire based businesses that are unable to access finance from traditional lenders. The Worcestershire Business Loan Fund, which is set to deliver £2.2 million to local SMEs over the next three years, was launched to over 80 local professionals and business owners on Wednesday 12th October. The new initiative has been established by Worcestershire County Council and one of the region’s largest providers of business loans, BCRS Business Loans. Offering loans from £10,000 to £50,000 the new business loan fund has been especially designed to meet the needs of Worcestershire small and medium sized businesses that are viable but unable to access finance from traditional lenders, such as banks. BCRS Business Loans Chief Executive, Paul Kalinauckas, said: “We are delighted to be
able to offer this loan fund in conjunction with Worcestershire County Council. Our aim is to leave no viable business unsupported and this new initiative will enable us to increase our support for growing Worcestershire businesses. BCRS understand that getting business finance can sometimes be a problem. Lack of track record, unreasonable security arrangements or past financial problems may be hindering the process.
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Tel: 0345 313 8410 Web: www.bcrs.org.uk Email: enquiries@bcrs.org.uk @B_C_R_S BCRS Business Loans For any Worcestershire based businesses looking for access to finance please contact BCRS Business Loans through the fast-track online application facility at www.bcrs.org.uk or call 0345 313 8410.
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LEGALMATTERS
CELEBRATORY AIR AT THE LANYON BOWDLER OFFICES There has been a celebratory air at the Lanyon Bowdler offices after it was announced we had been highly recommended in a leading independent guide, the Legal 500 UK Directory.
The firm has been recommended in 14 practice areas, and 16 of our lawyers - more than ever before - have been recognised as being at the top of their game. The reason we are so pleased to be included in the Legal 500 is that it is based on independent endorsements from clients and fellow legal professionals. This independent recommendation is critical in helping clients to place their trust in us to look after their legal needs. To receive such a high level of recognition,
not just locally but across the West Midlands, is testament to the experience, knowledge and skill of our lawyers and their application of that for the benefit of clients. It is a clear indication that our clients can be assured of getting the very best legal expertise when they come to us for advice. Here in Herefordshire, our head of agriculture, Jon Clifford, was officially recommended in the guide for the first time, demonstrating the high level of expertise he can give to farmers and rural businesses in the region.
It has been a busy year for the firm in Herefordshire, following the successful merger with Beaumonts Solicitors in May which has resulted in a new Lanyon Bowdler office in Bromyard and the expansion of our team in Hereford. Ultimately, we know that our business, like any other, is only as good as our people. So the more good people we have, the better we can serve our clients’ needs. These kinds of endorsements confirm that our team are doing a great job for their clients, which is always nice to hear. William Morse is an employment partner at Lanyon Bowdler in Hereford. T: 01432 377152 E: william.morse@lblaw.co.uk
The firm was recommended for its sector specialisms in education and agriculture, along with our corporate and commercial, dispute resolution, employment and commercial property teams. The clinical negligence and personal injury departments were highlighted as being amongst the best in the West Midlands with a top tier ranking.
Transparently priced, practical advice and support delivered by legal specialists in Herefordshire Our specialist corporate, commercial property, dispute resolution and employment lawyers provide support to help you grow and protect your business, giving you a solid foundation to build upon
Incorporating Beaumonts Solicitors
01432 378379 www.lblaw.co.uk Supporting People, Businesses & Communities
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Broadway House, 32 - 35 Broad Street, Hereford HR4 9AR Beaumont House, Offa Street, Hereford HR1 2LH 38 High Street, Bromyard HR7 4AE Offices also in Shrewsbury | Ludlow | Oswestry | Telford
November/December 2016
ADVERTORIALFEATURE
CHARITABLE FUND RAISING AT THE JINNEY RING CRAFT CENTRE (HANBURY)
EVERY PENNY COUNTS! Most charities rely heavily on donations to achieve their worthwhile objectives, and many businesses, particularly those in the public eye, will receive numerous requests for financial support in one form or another. We are no different at the Jinney Ring Craft Centre and genuinely wish we could help everyone but it’s neither financially nor physically possible. Instead, our approach is to choose 3 to 4 charities each year and do as much as we can with our available resources to provide support in the most appropriate way. Basically, we provide the setting and organisational assistance for a partner-charity to hold an event-day at the Jinney Ring. Probably the best example is “Animals-R-Magic” for The Cinnamon Trust held in July each year. As the title suggests, the day is all about raising awareness of animal charities through stalls in our gardens alongside activities such as alpaca walks and dog shows. Our newest venture is “Come Fly a Kite” for Primrose Hospice which takes
raises funds for The Alzheimer’s Society. Visitors can commission a bespoke glass leaf (made and engraved onsite) which is added to an ornamental forged tree in memory of a loved one -- the tree is now a work of art in itself!
advantage of our open fields and prevailing wind off the Malvern’s, allowing ‘kiters’ to show off their skills, together with displays and advice for beginners. We have received tremendous support from the public at these events which are designed to appeal to families and charity supporters of all ages, giving them an enjoyable and memorable day out.
Not only are these events and activities stimulating and fun for our visitors but they are making a difference financially for the charities who raise funds through gate money, sales and donations. For our part, we cover our costs through the sale of food and get to enjoy the day almost as much as our visitors. For further information on forthcoming charity events at Jinney Ring Craft Centre, please visit www.jinneyring.co.uk or call 01527 821272.
We also tap into the talents of our ‘crafters’ as with our Memory Tree which
Love Herefordshire. Love nature. Would your business like to strengthen its environmental credentials and show support for local communities? We would like to offer you the opportunity to join Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, which in turn allows us to promote your company’s green credentials and social commitment to the environment and beautiful countryside of Herefordshire. We’ve run thousands of events in communities across the county, getting kids active and engaged outdoors through our successful ‘WildPlay’ programme. Our volunteer teams and staff manage hundreds of hectares of woodland, wildflower meadows and traditional orchards – helping to keep Herefordshire special. We are the only conservation charity dedicated to working in Herefordshire, with almost 5,000 members and 59 nature reserves across the county, including the popular Queenswood Country Park. Our aim is to protect local wildlife and its habitat, plus connect more people to nature in Herefordshire. As a company based in the county, we would love your support to help make the case for wildlife in this gorgeous corner of England. To find out more about our Corporate Sponsorship and Corporate Membership opportunities contact John Clark: 01432 356872 / j.clark@herefordshirewt.co.uk
nov 2016.indd 1 Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Herefordshire
Wildlife Trust 07/10/2016 09:57:22
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CHARITYNEWS Supporting local charities is an important part of Corporate Social Responsibility. 90 charities are members of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, representing and supporting a variety of needs in the two counties. Several of our charities are featured below; for a full list, access the Membership Directory at www.hwchamber.co.uk/member-login
HEREFORDSHIRE MS THERAPY CENTRE The Herefordshire MS Therapy Centre is an independent charity and registered member of the UK Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centres, which exists to meet the personal and therapeutic needs of people with MS and other long term chronic illnesses; including stroke,
cancer and fibromyalgia. The centre provides a mixture of mainstream and complementary therapies including a large four-seat (HBOT) oxygen chamber. It is a place where clients can share experiences and offer mutual support.
fundraising campaign to provide an extension to the centre. This will enable us to offer other exercise classes and therapies to an ever growing list of users, but also boost the space so that many more people can be accommodated.
In September 2016 we launched a
www.herefordmscentre.com
THE CHILDREN’S FAMILY TRUST – A FAMILY FOR LIFE
L-R: Ian Gibbs, Mason Gibbs, Lydia Buckmaster and Paul Barratt, MD of Karndean Designflooring
KARNDEAN DESIGNFLOORING TEE OFF FOR CLIC SARGENT The UK’s market leader in luxury vinyl flooring, Karndean Designflooring, has raised £8,000 in support of CLIC Sargent, a UK cancer charity for children, young people and their families, as part of its annual charity golf day. With its head office and state-of-the-art showroom based at Vale Park, Evesham, Karndean pledged its support to CLIC Sargent after learning of the tremendous support it had given to Mason Gibbs, the son of one of its Sales Managers, Ian Gibbs. Being diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin T-Cell lymphoma (a type of blood cancer) in April 2015, four-year-old Mason has since completed an intense phase of chemotherapy and is now in the maintenance period of his treatment, due to finish in August 2018. CLIC Sargent Fundraising Manager, Lydia Buckmaster said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Karndean Designflooring has made this wonderful contribution in support of their colleague and his son, Mason. We really appreciate the hard work and generosity that has gone in to their fundraising.” www.karndean.com
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The Children’s Family Trust is an Independent Children’s Charity which, since 1945, has been supporting children in Foster Care placements throughout the UK who cannot live with their own families. CFT is not for profit and much of the work the CFT does supporting children and young people in care is completely unfunded. A minimum of 85p of every pound that comes into CFT goes out again supporting young people by way of therapeutic input, educational support, and trips and holidays for children who may never have experienced them before. The charity also supports children who still need help having long since left the care of both the CFT and their Local Authority. CFT also supports young people who are not able to access help elsewhere well after they have left our care into their adulthood. Any child in our care will always have the CFT as their “family for life”, a right every child should have. www.thecft.org.uk
Deaf Direct’s Summer Camp for Young People and Children 2016
DEAF DIRECT Deaf Direct is your local, deaf-led charity, supporting people with hearing loss. Hearing loss affects one in six people in the UK. Imagine not being able to hear your grandchild’s first words or someone say “I love you”. Maybe you can’t hear the TV or radio as well as you used to. Deaf Direct is here to support people with hearing loss and their families across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Oxfordshire. Every year we help over 6,000 people, through Communication Assistance, Community Outreach and Support, Social Groups, Equipment, Youth Services, Information and Advice, Advocacy and Volunteering. We also provide training to businesses to enable them to communicate better with customers or staff with a hearing loss. Our Deaf Awareness training is offered at a discount of 10% to HWCC Members and we can also offer bespoke British Sign Language or Lipreading courses. To find out more, please contact us on 01905 746 301 or fundraising@deafdirect. org.uk www.deafdirect.org.uk
November/December 2016
CHARITYNEWS Neil Raisbeck begins the walk in Prestatyn
COMPANY DIRECTOR WALKS 177 MILES FOR COMBAT STRESS Herefordshire Health and Safety Consultancy, BN SHE Consultancy Ltd, have recently been rallying the troops. Company Director and Army Veteran, Neil Raisbeck, has walked the 177-mile Offa’s Dyke Path to raise money for Combat Stress (the leading veterans’ mental health charity). The charity currently supports over 5,900 veterans and their families. Treatment and support services are always free of charge, and are proven to work; though they need funding to continue to offer these life saving services. Neil started in Prestatyn and after 12 gruelling days of sweltering heat and blisters arrived in Chepstow having raised just over £2000. We are very proud of Neil and his efforts for Combat Stress. www.bnsheconsultancy.com
THE CLD TRUST – HEALTHY MINDS HEALTHY FUTURES The CLD Trust is a unique and innovative health and wellbeing charity providing support for young people experiencing difficulties with their mental health. The charity receives over 1200 referrals per year for specialist therapy together with over 250 referrals to the Strong Young Minds Programme for early intervention and support. They also provide support and training for schools, youth groups, parents/carers and businesses and are viewed as a leading health and wellbeing organisation in Herefordshire. The CLD Trust is the only organisation in Herefordshire providing early intervention support to young people experiencing issues which may affect their mental health and wellbeing. The Strong Young Minds programme is leading the way in piloting new working and peer support initiatives, developed in partnership with young people.
WORKING FOR CARERS Working For Carers is a business membership community and accreditation scheme supported by both Worcestershire Association of Carers and Herefordshire Carer Support. Our aim is to create a more carer-aware workplace, for the benefit of employers, their staff and our local communities. One in five carers give up work to care which means £5.3 billion is lost in earnings nationally. Those aged 40-49 are most likely to leave work or reduce their hours. An ageing population and abolishment of default retirement
Working with young people at Barrs Court Hub
The charity also offers training to local businesses, focussing on promoting the importance of health and wellbeing for staff, educating and training managers. This highlights how best to support staff experiencing difficulties to contribute towards building a robust and healthy workforce. www.thecldtrust.org www.thesymproject.org
age means more older workers and therefore more working carers locally needing support. Nearly one in eight employees combine caring for a loved one with a paid job, and that number is set to rise. The scheme can help local businesses to: n Retain talent and support recruitment n Demonstrate the social value of your business n Have a positive impact on your local community n Gain meaningful publicity n Enhance your reputation and the health and well-being of your employees www.carersworcs.org.uk/news/ working-for-carers.html
ROYAL LIFE SAVING SOCIETY UK RELOCATES TO WORCESTER The UK’s Drowning Prevention Charity, the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), is set to relocate its headquarters to Worcester for 2017. RLSS UK, currently based in Warwickshire, will be moving to its new London Road headquarters to enable it to continue to grow and raise its profile in a busy city location.
“We already have a number of links to Worcester and Worcestershire and are looking forward to building on these and Artist’s impression of the new RLSS UK headquarters
CEO, Di Steer, said: “We are thrilled to announce our relocation to Worcester. A city location will offer more opportunities for growth and a higher profile.
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
becoming an integral part of the business and local communities.” RLSS UK is the UK’s leading provider of water safety and drowning prevention education and aims to reduce the number of people who tragically lose their lives to drowning. Around 400 people drown in the UK each year. As well as educational, awareness and fundraising campaigns, RLSS UK also offers a range of leading lifeguarding and lifesaving qualifications and programmes. www.rlss.org.uk
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COVERFEATURE
SCHEMES THAT ALLOW BUSINESSES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is an increasingly important part of business life as companies seek to make an impact on their communities beyond the simple bottom line. From raising money for good causes to promoting sound health, companies in Herefordshire and Worcestershire are playing their part.
HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE BUSINESSES URGED TO HELP THEIR STAFF GET ACTIVE Businesses and employees across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are being urged to leave their laptops for lunchtime yoga and ditch their desks in favour of dumbbells, as part of a nationwide initiative designed to bring physical activity into and around the workplace.
Another company that takes CSR seriously is Tyrrells Potato Crisps Limited, which has worked closely with the Chamber for several years on a wide-ranging health and safety training programme. Key to the approach is the company’s belief that health and safety management should be approached holistically and collectively, embracing every aspect of the working environment, equipment, systems, procedures and people.
Workplace Challenge in collaboration with Sports Partnership Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and other County Sports Partnerships taking part across England, provides a unique mix of technology and on-the-ground support. NHS guidelines state that adults should try to do at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, such as cycling or fast walking, every week to stay healthy – but an estimated 40 per cent of people do not exercise enough, according to Public Health England. And it is not just our health that is suffering. An unhealthy workforce contributes to sickness absence, reduced productivity and an estimated cost of
£14.9 billion to businesses in lost working days every year. More than 48,000 employees from over 8,000 businesses across England have already signed up to Workplace Challenge, which includes tailored sport and physical activities. Stephen Brewster, Director of Sports Partnership Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: “The average number of sick days per person per year is 5.31. If we can reduce this figure just by one day by promoting health and wellbeing in the workplace, it could save businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire an estimated £35 million.” For more details, or to complete the free and simple registration, visit our website www.workplacechallenge.org.uk.
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COMPANY TAKES A RESPONSIBLE APPROACH TO HEALTH & SAFETY
Working with the Chamber, Tyrrells have delivered a range of Working and Managing Safely courses, presented by the Chamber’s Director of HR, Dawn Hardman. Janice Bennett, HR Director at Tyrells, said: “Occupational safety and health forms an integral part of CSR and we take the view that good OHS is about going above and beyond compliance with health and safety regulations in order to continuously improve. “We all have a part to play. The training courses run by Dawn engage our staff in that idea and the feedback we get is that they are amongst the most popular health and safety training courses we offer. Dawn manages to engage with the team and really brings the subject matter to life for all participants, whatever their level.” www.tyrrellscrisps.co.uk
November/December 2016
COVERFEATURE
WORCESTERSHIRE WORKS WELL Health is the focus for Worcestershire Works Well (WWW), a free accreditation scheme for businesses in Worcestershire which has been running for six years. Under the scheme, organisations can be accredited on three levels by achieving tasks related to improving the health of their workforce, including everything from quitting smoking to taking more exercise, supported by a WWW toolkit. 72 organisations across Worcestershire have signed up with 37 having already attained an accreditation and one, Southco Manufacturing, has achieved the top level. Partners in the scheme include Worcestershire County Council, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Sports Partnership, Community First & Worcestershire Regulatory Services. Andy Boote, Health Improvement Specialist in the Directorate of Public Health at Worcestershire County Council, who helps run the scheme, said: “The aim is to improve the health of workforces in Worcestershire and the scheme operates like an NVQ with levels of accreditation. It is proving itself very effective.”
Among those taking part is Wyre Forest District Council, which said: “The focus on Worcestershire Works Well has helped the Council better co-ordinate health and wellbeing activity for our employees and to raise awareness, including at a senior level. “Our annual health surveys have shown encouraging results overall, with improvements in terms of staff happiness and job/life satisfaction, reduced stress levels and improved eating habits/activity levels.” Another organisation taking part is Worcester-based ISO Quality Services Ltd, an independent organisation that specialises in the implementation, certification and auditing of ISO and BS EN Management Standards. They said: “We care very much about the well-being of our employees, stemming from our roots as a family business. “In our industry, recruitment and training costs are high and as a small business it is important that we retain talented individuals. Our participation in WWW has had a really positive impact on the whole business. It has truly brought the team together and highlighted concerns for us as a small team.
Interserve and Oakland International receiving their accreditation certificates at the most recent WWW event
we saw an increase in the number of employees losing weight, being encouraged to join weight loss groups and an uptake in the variety of exercises employees were becoming involved in. The majority of the company also acknowledged that they had been making healthier choices and smarter food swaps." Southco has sponsored an award to recognise ‘outstanding achievement’. This will be presented on Thursday 10 November at WWW’s bi-annual event. www.worcestershireworkswell.co.uk
“On a whole, sickness rates have decreased and based on a recent survey
A SIMPLE WAY FOR BUSINESSES TO SUPPORT CHARITY One of the easiest ways in which businesses can support charity is by signing up to Give as You Live (www. giveasyoulive.com), which allows people to raise money for their favourite good cause every time they shop online. Organiser EveryClick Ltd has helped raise more than £7.5m for UK charities and Give as you Live allows shoppers to raise much needed funds through purchases of everything from stationery to travel tickets and insurance. Give as you Live works with more than 4,000 of the UK’s top online retailers and users can select from any of more than 200,000 charities. It’s free to use and free to choose. You pay the normal price and the retailer pays Everyclick
commission for the sale and they pass it on to the selected charity. Managing Director Greg Hallett said: “People may be familiar with the ‘cashback’ idea or with raising money personally but we are helping businesses to take part as well. It is an easy way to donate money to charity without incurring expense or expending effort and it is ideal for businesses who may be buying stationery or booking travel tickets on a regular basis. “As an organisation, we are driven by the need to be relevant and we do that by seeking to raise at least 1% of a charity’s income through what we do. “However, with a small charity with lower incomes it could be 10% of their funding,
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
which makes us even more relevant. “One of the things we do is encourage groups of people within a company to take part so that not only is the company raising money but individuals are doing the same thing through their own personal purchases and collectively making a real difference. “You could be supporting all sorts of organisations, everything from one of the bigger charities to your local Church or School and, although you may only raise £10-20, if lots of people do it, it really adds up.” "It’s so easy and being totally free it really should be something all businesses are doing."
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BIGINTERVIEW
PHOENIX LIFE’S CEO SHOWS WHAT BEING A RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS IS ALL ABOUT “Phoenix Group’s Corporate Responsibility strategy is at the heart of our business; from the way we attract and develop our 600-strong workforce in Wythall, through to providing a helpful, transparent and fair service to 4.7 million Phoenix Life policyholders. Our aim is to create a positive impact on the lives of our employees, community partners and customers.” So says Andy Moss, Phoenix Life CEO. The Group re-launched its Corporate Responsibility strategy at the start of the year, focusing on all things ‘wellbeing’ – the financial, mental and physical wellbeing of all its key stakeholders. For ‘financial wellbeing’, the Group wishes to utilise its financial services skills and experience by helping to ‘improve financial literacy in the community’. Their network of staff volunteers assist with financial education workshops and encourage ‘maths through play’ at secondary schools close to their offices. The Group is partnered with Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and London’s Air Ambulance and through staff participation has raised an incredible £420,000 since 2014, funding numerous life-saving air missions. Staff can also support other charities, through traditional fundraising or by donating their time in the established volunteering programme. Staff can take up to 14 hours to support a local community project. The CEO and his management team led the way at the start of this year, by participating in a charity shop challenge in aid of Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice. The team worked across three charity stores in one day, raising £4,600 for the cause. A total of 2,300 hours have been donated to various community partners this year. Staff use skills and knowledge to improve the lives of others. Examples include painting and decorating, gardening and
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woodland preservation, reading and financial literacy programmes through to mentoring. Forty members of staff recently took part in an exercise at Arrow Valley Country Park in Redditch, supporting Redditch Borough Council personnel. Staff from the Group’s Risk and Customer teams worked on an array of tasks including litter picking, clearing pathways and a tree reduction exercise in the Millennium Wood which was planted 16 years ago. For ‘mental wellbeing’, the Group raises awareness and provides support to individuals living with mental health issues in the community. The ‘Time to Change’ Pledge was signed in 2014, which aims to remove any stigma or discrimination in the workplace around mental health. The Group works closely with Mind charity, to promote mental wellbeing and resilience tools in the workplace. Its network of staff volunteers have decorated several Mind and Trident Reach the People Charity care-homes in Birmingham. They have also served lunches for the homeless and vulnerably-housed at SIFA Fireside in Birmingham, and attended Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friend training. For ‘physical wellbeing’, the Group regularly promotes the importance of healthy eating and active lifestyles to staff and its community partners. Earlier this year, the onsite restaurant at Wythall achieved a gold level ‘Healthier Choices Food Award’ from Worcestershire Regulatory Services, making them the first company in the region to achieve the accolade. This Award is for establishments that have exceptional healthy and flexible menu options and is only available to those achieving the highest possible food hygiene rating. Inspectors praised the Groups’s work for promoting their weekly ‘no waste days’.
Phoenix Life’s CEO, Andy Moss (centre) joined by members of his senior management team, participating in Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice charity shop challenge.
The Group’s health awareness programme includes free onsite health-checks and flu vaccinations, gym membership and sports classes, alternative therapies and healthy food choices. Working with Worcestershire County Council, the Group achieved Level 1 in its Worcestershire Works Well accreditation and is now working towards Level 2, demonstrating its commitment to the ongoing development and promotion of staff wellbeing.
November/December 2016
BIGINTERVIEW
The national day of employee volunteering ‘Give and Gain Day’, was supported by staff. Volunteers worked with pupils at a local primary school, demonstrating the importance of healthy eating and worked on a garden project. Another team helped Trident Reach with preparations for a vegetable plot, giving residents the opportunity to grow their own produce and prepare meals together.
Lucy Symonds, Corporate Responsibility Manager, said: “There are benefits for staff, the Company and our community partners in having an active CR programme. Charitable fundraising and volunteering can motivate and engage staff, encourage team-work and skills-based knowledge-sharing. The Company benefits from high engagement scores, low absence rates and by having individuals that are continually developing new skills.
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Our community partners benefit from the range of donations, skills, time and resource we contribute to the cause.“ www.thephoenixgroup.com
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HEALTHANDWELLBEING
ROTHERWOOD HEALTHCARE CREATES NEW CAREER PATHWAY FOR CARERS Rotherwood Healthcare are implementing a new career pathway for carers as part of their ongoing efforts to create a better standard of healthcare. The position is titled ‘Assistant Clinician’ and will allow carers to earn up to £9 per/hr. Rotherwood Healthcare are in a unique position, having their own training company that operates internally within the business allows staff to constantly develop and specific pathway training to be monitored. The new position will be trialled at the exemplary Hereford Homes: Lynhales Hall, Gwen Walford House and Hampton Grange - which were recently
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awarded ‘6th best and number one nursing home in the West Midlands respectively’ by carehome.co.uk. A new analysis of the healthcare sector is warning that the UK could face a shortage of 60,000 nurses in 2020 if measures are not put in place to resolve staffing issues. The survey, produced by Christie & Co, found using agency staff typically cost 100% more per hour than the cost of regular staff.The total agency share of overall staff costs has increased by 51% on average. Both increased reliance on agency nurses and pay increases for permanent staff means overall staffing costs have increased. The analysis includes a survey of 12 of the largest nursing home providers who together offer 74,000 nursing home beds and represent around 30% of the UK sector.
Heavy reliance on agency nursing staff can be detrimental to a healthcare provider and the quality of service for the end user. Nursing Home budgets are heavily impacted by the higher rates of agency nursing staff, curbing agency spend allows money to be invested back in the business and into the service provided to create better experiences for residents and relatives. Richard Claridge, CEO of Rotherwood Group, had this to say: “We’re excited to trial the Assistant Clinician position within the Hereford homes. It gives existing Rotherwood carers the potential to take on more responsibility and continue their professional development whilst simultaneously supporting our nursing staff.”
November/December 2016
HEALTHANDWELLBEING
HEREFORD VISION Simon, you perform corrective procedures for people struggling with their vision, such as cataract and lens replacement surgery. What’s special about your approach here in Hereford? Every person’s eyes are unique to them and the best way of planning vision correction is to offer a completely bespoke assessment. While many benefit greatly from laser eye surgery, lens replacement surgery - perhaps with modern multifocal lenses - is a better choice for many.
TELL ME MORE. Lens replacement surgery utilises the same tried and tested techniques of modern keyhole cataract surgery. The lens of the eye is carefully removed and is replaced with a new lens, correcting the vision from inside. A special multifocal lens may then allow spectaclefree distance and reading vision. Does that mean that if you’ve been wearing glasses all your life you can do away with them? Provided the procedure is appropriate – and everyone needs a comprehensive
assessment first – then in many cases the answer is yes.
SO WHY GO PRIVATE? A key advantage is the ability to choose the type of lens used, like multifocals. Other advantages include no waiting and seeing the same, experienced consultant at every stage in your treatment. You certainly don’t need to wait for your cataract to impact on your life, or until you reach local NHS criteria. I know someone who had cataract surgery at another hospital - she still needs glasses. Could you help? Absolutely. While we wouldn’t want to change the lens that has been put in, there are straightforward options to address this. Thank you. Where should patients look for more information on these amazing treatments that are available locally? Please visit the www.HerefordVision.com website for more information, informational videos on the techniques discussed and brochures on the different treatments. Initial assessments are often available in Ludlow & Brecon too.
HerefordVision provides precision corrective eye surgery for people who wish to improve their eyesight. Specialist in cataract and lens replacement surgery.
Call 01432 370874 or visit www.HerefordVision.com
Wellbeing at Work
with Kathy Scott from Hands on at Work massage therapies
Delighted delegates - Our mobile massage service for expos and exhibitions Take a moment to think about the last time you attended or exhibited at a trade show or corporate event. Chances are it felt like a very long day where you were always on your feet, keeping your energy up and presenting a professional image.
We have the facility to come along and set up our mobile massage chairs and provide relaxing head and shoulder taster treatments. We can do this either on your corporate stand or as a complementary part of the overall event.
These big business events can be very fruitful, but they can also be tiring.
Each massage is performed over clothing, including formal business wear.
Profitable and enjoyable
Professional and branded
It’s our mobile corporate massage service.
It’s an eye-catching addition to any exhibition stand and a great way to
Here at Hands on at Work we have a wonderful way to make expos and exhibitions profitable and enjoyable.
The Hands on Work team can even adopt your brand colours and logos.
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
present a modern, corporate approach and an image of healthy vitality. Hands on at Work are pleased to deliver our mobile corporate massage service at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Expo events. Find out more - You can also find out more about workplace massage by calling 07989 367669, emailing info@handsonatwork.co.uk or having a click around our website.
www.handsonatwork.co.uk
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Awaiting NHS treatment to get back to work? There is an alternative Spire South Bank Hospital offers fast access to private clinical expertise across a wide range of specialities and treatments. Whether you have Private Medical Insurance, or are looking to self-fund, we offer affordable fixed price packages to help you get better sooner.
We offer the following treatments: • • • • • •
Knee, hip and shoulder surgery Hand and foot surgery Back pain treatment Varicose veins Men’s Health Physiotherapy
• • • •
Cataract removal Hernia repair Women’s Health Diagnostics including - Ultrasound, MRI and CT Scans
01905 350003 www.spiresouthbank.com November/December 2016
For you: Reduce the risk of lost time and income For the NHS: Reduce the demand on overstretched services Lost time = decline in productivity for you and your business Longer hospital waits and the potential loss of earnings are leading many patients to pay for treatment themselves or purchase private medical insurance. • Over 27.3 million annual working days lost each year due to ill-health • On average, each person with illness takes around 15 days off work per year • This equates to an annual cost of £8.2bn per annum to the individual and £2.8bn to the employer source: HSE cost model: http://www.hse.gov.uk/
According to recent Office of National Statistics data, the UK is on average 16% less productive than our G7 peers. So, a big question for small businesses and the growing population of self-employed workers is how to boost productivity? Part of the answer lies in optimising their health and wellbeing. More and more people are relying on medical policies to get back to work quicker and the reasons are absolutely rational. Increasing waiting times for NHS treatment is leading to more people self-funding and choosing private health insurance schemes.
· Lost time due to illness means reduced productivity for you and your business · By choosing to undertake private treatment – either as a self-funding patient or by using private medical insurance, ensures rapid access to treatment facilitating return to work, return to full pay and return to productivity.
· We’re experiencing longer waiting times to see a consultant, and that’s before treatment starts. This, in turn, means a delayed recovery and therefore a delay back to work. · By accessing private healthcare for elective surgery, and minimising blocked bed challenges, pressure on the NHS is relieved. For more information please contact our customer service team on 01905 350003.
Spire South Bank Hospital 139 Bath Road, Worcester Worcestershire, WR5 3YB Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
HEALTHANDWELLBEING
TRAINING BUSINESSES FOR LIFE What are your expectations from your First Aid Provider? Do they provide you with: n Guidance in Health and Safety regulations. n In-house and regular local open courses. n Regulated First Aid courses? n Professionalism with Subject Experience (Former Ambulance Paramedic). n Answers that concerns you. n Competitively priced courses. n Reminder service. Independent Medical Solutions was established by Andrew Fay in 2002, our returning clients appreciate our friendly and professional approach combining our Paramedic and medical experiences within our courses. n We provide guidance on your First Aid Needs Assessment. n We provide discount on all our In-house regulated First Aid at Work courses. (Min 6 delegates) n We deliver open regulated First Aid at Work courses. n We are competitively priced.
n We remind you when your First Aiders need refreshing and Requalification. Our Workplace training packages include: Chamber Member receive 5% discount n 3 day - QA Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work course n 2 day - QA Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work Requalification course n 1 day - QA Level 2 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work course n 3hr - Annual Refresher Training n Automated External Defibrillator Training n Evacuation Chair training
Call or visit us today on: Tel: 01527 457527 Email: info@imsfirstaid.com Web: www.imsfirstaid.com
Independent Medical Solutions
Limited
Could your business help us make a difference? If your organisation is looking to make a social impact we have a range of volunteering opportunities which can directly help older, vulnerable people and support you to meet your corporate responsibility policy All things Digital
We need your help to reach more people, raise awareness of what we do through social media and use technology more effectively
People Skills
Could you offer your expertise and skills to develop our personnel through training sessions, shadowing or one to one support?
A spare 15 minutes
We have all sorts of small volunteering opportunities which only take a few minutes but they enable us to help more older people eg: proof reading a leaflet or poster
Tea & biscuits
Or perhaps you could support older people to socialise, assist with building partnerships and help create the spaces to do this through contributing to refreshments, room hire or other facilities
Making Herefordshire & Worcestershire a great place to grow older To find out more, please contact us: Tel: 01905 740950 Email: volunteering@ageukhw.org.uk Website: www.ageukhw.org.uk Malvern Gate, Bromwich Road, Worcester. WR2 4BN Charity No: 1080545
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November/December 2016
IN THE BUSINESS OF SAVING LIVES BROOKES CATERING Brookes Catering is based in Norton, Worcester. As a company we pride ourselves on meeting the needs of all individuals and helping to ensure that you receive the personal touch to any of your catering requirements whether these are personal or business. Brookes Catering is well established and has been trading for 15 years and has recently received once again a 5 star hygiene rating.
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is 100 per cent funded by generous charitable donations from communities across the six Midlands counties served by the organisation, including Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Therefore support from local businesses plays an extremely important role in helping to save countless lives. Each day up to six people find themselves in desperate need of an air ambulance, and often the speed one of the charity’s three helicopters can attend an incident and clinical expertise delivered by the aircrew can mean the difference between life and death. This is why support from the local community is so vital. Michelle McCracken, regional fundraising manager for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, highlights the benefits businesses receive while supporting the service: “We work with a lot of companies who understand the importance of our service, but also want to develop their Corporate Social Responsibility credentials. We pride ourselves on creating bespoke and mutually beneficial partnerships with businesses, ensuring their fundraising not only assists our great cause, but is also a fun, engaging and a fulfilling experience for employers, employees.” Working with Midlands Air Ambulance Charity not only promotes a sense of incredible achievement, as supporters can see just how imperative the service provides, but it is also an opportunity to increase employee engagement, and raise business profile through positive PR.
If you are interested in finding out more about a rewarding partnership with the lifesaving organisation, call 0800 840 2040 or visit www.midlandsairambulance.com.
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
A new menu that has just be launched this month is: Assorted Filled Wraps Mini Cornish pasties Goats cheese and red onion tart Chicken tikka skewers with Mint yoghurt dip Savory cream cheese and Red onion marmalade scones Crisps
Brookes Catering offers catering for a lots of events such as: n Corporate buffets n Weddings n Dinners
n Canape Parties n Corporate event catering
Within Brookes Catering we are currently undergoing a new look with our website. We are creating a more accessible and user friendly website with downloadable menus. Please keep an eye out for the new look on the website www.brookescatering.co.uk
For more information, questions or quotes please do not hesitate to contact us on either 01905 356282 or info@brookescatering.co.uk
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VISITHEREFORDSHIRE
www.visitherefordshire.co.uk
Winners of the Visit Herefordshire & Visit Worcestershire Awards for Excellence
General Manager David Bailey with the stamp Photo credit Richard Swingler
BERRINGTON HALL COMMEMORATIVE STAMP CAPABILITY BROWN Herefordshire National Trust property Berrington Hall’s connection with Lancelot “Capability” Brown is being remembered as part of the 300th anniversary celebrations since his birth. Aside from their own marketing campaigns throughout 2016, the Royal Mail is issuing eight stamps to commemorate Brown, who is most famous for his work as a landscape architect who designed over 170 parks during the 18th Century. David Bailey, General Manager of Berrington Hall, said: “The tercentenary celebrations for Capability Brown have been a game changer for Berrington Hall in 2016. We utilised the Brown theme to develop a progressive programme, linked to our Georgian roots, which enabled us to present a holistic experience covering the last complete Brown parkland and garden as well as the Holland designed mansion. Early results show a deepening of emotional engagement with the property and our busiest ever year, all helping us to restore the parkland and gardens and showing us the way for the future. Our experience has enabled us to plan with confidence and celebrate Brown for many years to come.”
AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE The Visit Herefordshire Awards for Excellence were held on Tuesday 20 September at Eastnor Castle. These were the first Tourism Awards in Herefordshire for five years and it was great to celebrate so many different businesses. Nine award categories recognised different types of accommodation, food producers and eating out, events and attractions, which celebrated finalists from all over the county. Anna Pearson Gregory from Monnington House, Winner of the Best Self-Catering Award, said: “I am delighted Monnington House has won this award. Our guests regularly comment on our standards achieved. It is great the industry has recognised our hard work. Herefordshire is a wonderful county to visit - there are so many activities available nearby and of course the food is superb which helps enormously!” Congratulations to all winners and finalists. To see a full list, visit www. visitherefordshire.org.uk. The Awards for Excellence will return in 2017.
AWARD WINNING LLAMAS FOR OLD KING STREET LLAMA FARM Old King Street Llama Farm are celebrating after four llamas from their Golden Valley herd attended the British Llama Society National Show at Newbury, Berkshire in September, and trekked off with a pannier full of prizes. Fourteen month old female Loupin Stanes was awarded the Supreme Championship, whilst 11 year old Long Meg won the older female class. Kilpeck won the young male class and was awarded first place in the all-important llama fibre competition. Kilpeck’s older brother Stonehenge was awarded the prized Gelding Cup. Owners Amanda Huntley and Robert Dewar said: “We are really pleased that our llamas are now recognised as the best in the country and it’s a feather in the cap for Herefordshire that the Golden Valley herd has achieved the supreme accolade of the British Llama Society.” www.oldkingstreetfarm.co.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/berrington-hall
HOPES OF LONGTOWN NAMED IN TOP 100 Herefordshire entrepreneur Christine Hope, based in the Golden Valley, has been celebrating becoming one of the top 100 independent retail businesses for her Longtown based store, Hopes of Longtown. Nestled in the foot of the Black Mountains, Hopes of Longtown is
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a one-stop shop offering a wide range of products for local residents and visitors to the area, as well as a post office service. Each year the Independent Achievers Academy names the Top 100 local stores in the UK & Ireland; these are the top
independent convenience stores doing most to serve local communities around the UK. Christine said: “We are thrilled to be named in the top 100 again, our team work hard to continuously improve our range of products and services." www.hopesoflongtown.co.uk
November/December 2016
VISITWORCESTERSHIRE
www.visitworcestershire.org
Phepson Farm interior
WORCESTERSHIRE WINTER WONDERLAND Visit the reindeer at St Peters Garden Centre this festive period from Sunday 20 November until the morning of Christmas Eve. Santa will be available to visit weekends from Sunday 27 November and the week leading up to Christmas, but if you visit during the week the staff at St Peters Garden Centre will let you look around his grotto for a small charity donation – www.stpetersgardencentre.co.uk.
At this year’s Christmas Grotto at Webbs, Wychbold, as well as meeting Santa your child can create their own reindeer food to put out on Christmas Eve, decorate a bauble in Santa’s Toy Workshop and pick their own toy to take home. Take a spin on the real ice rink and experience fun for all the family. www.webbs.co.uk
Wrap up warm to enjoy a frosty winter walk around the grounds of Brockencote Hall and then toast your toes by the roaring fire while enjoying a selection of festive fancies, mince pies, sandwiches, cakes and scones. Why not add a glass of Champagne, mulled wine or Winter Pimm’s to really get you in the Christmas spirit. Call 01562 777876 to book.
Celebrate a little Christmas indulgence with friends or family at Hagley Hall with a delicious Afternoon Tea in the magnificent State rooms, including roast turkey and cranberry sandwiches. Homemade cakes include salted caramel éclair filled with creme patissiere, white chocolate and orange bauble and crumble topped mince pie. Call 01562 887290 to book.
Winter Wonderland Parties at Colwall Park Hotel include ice sculptures, three course dinner, white chocolate fountain with Christmas treats and the resident DJ to dance the night away. If you want to catch up with friends or organise a last minute team get together, the Colwall Park Hotel has something for all needs and all group sizes. Call 01684 540000 to book last minute availability.
Join an Amazing Festive Party Night with a group of friends or colleagues at Stanbrook Abbey. Kick-start your celebrations with a welcome drink, before sitting down to a three-course meal in the impressive Thompson Dining Hall. After dinner have a drink in George’s Bar, or a mulled wine around the fire pit before taking the party to the dance floor. Call 01905 887302 to book.
2016 BEST SELF CATERING WINNER – PHEPSON FARM Following their category win in the Visit Worcestershire Awards for Excellence, Phepson Farm said: “We are thrilled to have won the Best Self Catering Cottages Award, it has been great for all the team and for our valued guests. Having only recently completed our latest barn conversion it is wonderful to be recognised in this way. These are fantastic awards that help to raise the profile of tourism in our county and showcase what the businesses have to offer. We are looking forward to representing Worcestershire as we now go on to enter the VisitEngland awards for 2017.” Visit Worcestershire would like to congratulate all winners and wish them good luck in the national awards. To see a full list, visit www.visitworcestershire.org/awards. www.phepsonfarm.co.uk
NATIONAL TRUST CROOME CELEBRATED ON A STAMP Croome, near Pershore, has been featured on a new set of Royal Mail stamps to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot “Capability” Brown. Nicknamed “Capability” because of his description of locations as having “great capabilities”, Brown changed the face of eighteenth century England through his innovative approach to landscape gardening. Croome was the first project where
Brown was commissioned to remodel the whole estate; moving a village and church, extending Croome Court and creating a hand dug lake and serpentine river. “I am delighted that Croome was chosen by the Royal Mail to celebrate Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown’s 300th anniversary,” said Katherine Alker, Croome’s Garden and Park Manager. “It’s a great honour to be part of this set of stamps which
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
reflects the importance of Brown as a landscape designer who influenced fashion in garden design across the world.” www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croome
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WORCESTERSHIREBUSINESSCENTRAL
IS THERE AVAILABLE SUPPORT TO HELP GET MY IDEA TO MARKET? One of the main challenges facing those with innovative ideas is securing support, predominantly financial, to help turn their concept into an actual revenue generating commercial product.
At Worcestershire Business Central, this is one of the most common enquiries we receive after those enquiring about support to start up a new business. So what support is available if you are in a similar situation? The Worcestershire Proof of Concept Grant is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and is broad enough to help support the county’s SMEs to investigate, advance, commercialise and protect innovative business ideas. The grant fund is designed to help companies bring a new product, or service, to the market place. If your customer base means you are trading business to business, then your new idea could be eligible for a financial award of up to £30,000. As with most funding, the amount awarded must be matched. Therefore, if your project carries a total cost of £20,000 then the Proof of Concept could provide you with a contribution of £10,000 towards this total cost. If your project is £60,000 or more you could qualify for the maximum of £30,000.
WHAT CAN THE FUND BE USED FOR? The Proof of Concept fund seeks to support the commercialisation of something that is “new” to your business. It could be an innovation that a competitor uses and you wish to introduce something similar to innovate your own business. Alternatively it could be your own
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innovation. The grant can be used to support things like:
focused tools for schools. It has also supported the advancement of some more traditional engineering companies.
n Raw materials for testing
HOW DO I FIND OUT MORE?
n New tooling and equipment n Certification and testing costs n IP/ trademark protection n Outsourcing costs for software development, prototypes or first production batches n External market research n New brochure and website upgrade and launch at industry exhibition/ event The fund covers external expenditure only and cannot be used for internal costs such as staff salaries. Unfortunately, there are some sectors that won’t qualify for this particular funding such as primary agriculture, retail, social welfare, education facilities, banking and insurance.
Your first port of call as with any support you seek should be Worcestershire Business Central. We can be contacted via info@business-central.co.uk or you can speak to one of our advisers via 01905 677888.
WHAT ELSE IS NEW? Worcestershire Business Central also launched its new website in September - www.business-central.co.uk. The new website carries practical tips and advice to support your business at whatever stage you are currently at. You can also use the website to sign up to our informative newsletter, to make sure you are kept up to date with new, or changes to, support for businesses.
The Worcestershire Proof of Concept fund has already supported projects as diverse as a three-wheeled folding commuter bike and new software based curriculum
November/December 2016
ADVERTORIALFEATURE
DISABLED WORKERS: BEING REASONABLE The Equality Act 2010 requires employers to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate disabled workers. But what adjustments are you expected to make and just what is “reasonable”? Mention “disability in the workplace” and the first thing many employers will think of is the cost of big-ticket items like widening doors and fitting ramps to accommodate wheel chairs users. In practice, the sorts of disabilities that employers are likely to encounter are less dramatic and the adjustments needed less onerous. The type of adjustments you might be expected to make to accommodate an existing or new employee with a disability may include: n physical adjustments to the work place, e.g. fitting a hearing-aid loop system for the hard of hearing; n provision of specialist equipment, e.g.
an extra-large screen, for someone with a visual impairment; n changing a person’s duties; n provision of a mentor or additional supervision; n allowing flexible working, e.g. more frequent breaks for a person with diabetes. The Act applies equally to mental as well as physical disabilities. Adjustments to accommodate someone who suffers from anxiety or depression might include; allowing the employee time during the day to speak to a support worker or re-assigning him/her away from a stressful customer facing role. It’s worth remembering that the Act applies to recruitment too. So, you should be asking applicants if they have a disability and be ready to make adjustments to the interview process to accommodate it if they do. In determining whether an adjustment is reasonable, there are three main tests: 1) Is it practical? 2) Will it be effective? and 3) Is the cost reasonable (that word again), given the resources of the employer? So,
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
the Act recognises that the adjustments a small business is able to make are not the same as those of a multi-national. Our advice is that employers should be positive and open-minded in seeking ways of accommodating and enabling disabled workers. In the vast majority of cases practical, low-cost solutions can be found. Specialist Occupational Therapists, EnableWorks provides employers with practical, expert advice on adjustments to accommodate disabled employees. T. 01386 839427 E. simon@enableworks.co.uk
Simon Tandy, Director
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Telephone 01432 370514 Email info@rural-concierge.co.uk www.rural-concierge.co.uk
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November/December 2016
ADVERTORIALFEATURE
DO YOU NEED HELP WITH: n Setting up employment contracts and employee handbooks n Managing terms and conditions n Motivating and retaining staff n Resolving difficult employee issues? Myers Harrison provides HR services to small businesses who need access to expert and affordable support, either as a one-off piece of work or on an ongoing basis. We will provide you with the HR tools you need to manage your people - and importantly, we’ll ensure your peace of mind through the knowledge you are legally compliant. WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Deirdre Myers, FCIPD on 07855 250045 or deirdre@mh-humanresources.co.uk www.linkedin.com/in/deirdremyers
Outsourcing your Technical Documentation Operating under strict quality and configuration control and adhering to industry or customer standards, our suitably qualified and experienced team of experts, technical authors and illustrators can create, maintain and review all the publications that you need. Creating new publications
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Illustrating and designing Whenever diagrams and images are needed to provide clarity or show complex technical details, our experienced illustrators will create them to the highest standards. We regularly work from original drawings, collaborate with designers and work with the actual equipment.
To find out more please contact us on 01905 789006 or 0117 3707755. Email enquiries@aace.co.uk
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
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INTERNATIONALTRADE
Ellen’s famous fourth generation puddings
FIND OUT HOW WE CAN SUPPORT YOU TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS Businesses who choose to sell overseas become 34% more productive in their first year while those already selling overseas achieve 59% faster productivity growth than non-exporters. Join us along with Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce to find out the various levels of support that can be offered to help your business grow. Date: Tuesday 6 December Time: 18:00-20:00 Cost: Free Location: MTM Centre for Leadership and Management Development, Eadburgha House, 65 High Street, Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7DP Programme 18:00 Registration and refreshments 18:30 Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce – Cassie Bray, Director of Business Engagement, will tell you about how the Chamber can help support your business and promote growth 18:50 Department for International Trade – Naomi Steemson, International Trade Adviser, will explain how the DIT’s wide range of services can help develop your export strategy and extend your global reach, whether you’re an experienced exporter or just beginning your journey 19:10 Hear from Warwick Partington from MTM Skills on how the Department for International Trade has worked to find new business overseas. 19:30 Q&A - Your chance to raise and discuss issues currently affecting your business. 19:45 Tour of MTM CLMD studio and communications coaching facilities 20:00 Depart To book a place on this event, please visit http://exportgrowyourbiz. eventbrite.co.uk
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CHRISTMAS PUDS GO DOWN A TREAT IN THE US Worcester-based Ellen Halpin-Barnett, who launched her fourth generation Grandma Lily’s Christmas puddings in July at the Windsor Food Festival, has successfully brought her famous puddings to Chicago after the inaugural Midlands Engine trade mission to the USA and Canada in September. The Midlands Engine trade mission was the first time that businesses and organisations from across the entire region came together as one to promote trade opportunities. Drawing from the Midlands Engine’s strong manufacturing and engineering base, the visit focussed on three separate sectors – automotive, manufacturing & aerospace, and food & drink – specifically focusing on the Chicago and Toronto markets. Ellen, who trades under Luxury Hampers and Gifts Ltd, has been working with the Department for International Trade (DIT) team since January to explore export opportunities. She said: “Ireland was the natural place to start exporting and I’m delighted that I’ve already attracted a number of outlets but my dream is to sell to the US, where there is a huge Irish population.
“I have a lot of family in Boston and they believe the product will go down well in the US, which is why the Midlands Engine trade mission appealed to me. I’m very excited by the export opportunities – the sky is the limit.” Her American dream comes after a string of hotels, farm shops and local stores in County Mayo, Ireland, took orders for her lighter festive puds, which are made to a recipe that originates from the Irish county, where her family are from. The recipe has remained unchanged since her great-grandmother Lily began making it in the 1880s and is a light, fruit filled pudding, flavoured with warm Christmas spices and liberally laced with Irish whiskey. The programme involved sessions with UPS, a tour of Wrigley’s Innovation Campus, Tate & Lyle’s Commercial and Food Innovation Centre and a reception for the Midlands Engine delegation with potential US partners, buyers and investors. In addition, the British Consulate were so impressed with Ellen’s puddings that they placed an order for 200.
November/December 2016
INTERNATIONALTRADE
RETRO DESIGNER SETS HER SIGHTS ON INTERNATIONAL GOALS Sunday Girl poppy apron
She said: “We’ve been working very closely with the International Trade team and their help has been invaluable to us because it’s given us the confidence to keep going and to think big. The business is doing well now, and while we sell to individuals all over the world, we’re now in a good position to step up our plans and work with distributors so that we can sell our goods in overseas stores.”
MASTERCLASS: EXPORT ESSENTIALS Businesses in the early stages of exporting are invited to a free masterclass event. Tailored towards companies in the early stages of exporting, this workshop will cover the essential elements of exporting and help you develop the basis for your export strategy. Date: Wednesday 30 November Time: 9.00am – 4.30pm Cost: Free Venue: Hereford Business Solutions Centre, Skylon Court, Coldnose Road, Rotherwas, HR2 6JL This workshop has been designed to allow you to take a strategic view of your company and help you focus on your objectives for doing business in a new/existing international market. As well as providing you with a grounding in the fundamental principles of international trade, you will benefit from sharing in the planning process with other business leaders. You will be accompanied by Department for International Trade advisors and have the chance to raise any current issues you face. The event will cover the essential elements of exporting, including market research, market selection, product to service tailoring, routes to market, international communication, ecommerce, export finance and getting paid, international contracts and developing a strategic international trade plan. For more information and to book, visit https://ditmasterclasses.eventbrite.com
website to individuals but also via a distributor in New Zealand – Gaena is now stepping up her strategic plans for growth both at home and abroad.
The company are well ahead in their plans to launch a dress collection, and they are also hoping to move their business to a warehouse early next year to cope with the increasing demand for The Sunday Girl products.
A Midlands textile designer who creates retro-style aprons using her own fabric designs is cooking up the next stage of growth after meeting her initial export plans. Gaena Martin, who launched The Sunday Girl with her partner Noor Ali from her Kidderminster home nearly three years ago, is set to launch her own dress collection after the retail success of her kitsch 1950s-style aprons. The textile designer has worked with the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Worcestershire for more than two years to develop contacts overseas, learn about exporting, set up her website for international sales, and source distributors. Alison Avery, the International Trade Adviser in the Worcestershire team who is working with Gaena, even hand-delivered aprons and had a meeting with a commercial officer at the DIT office in Melbourne, Australia, earlier this year when she went on holiday as a way of introducing the brand. Now with 40% of The Sunday Girl sales going overseas – mainly through her
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Christine Hamilton, Interim Regional Director of the Department for International Trade West Midlands, said: “We work with businesses of all sizes, helping them to achieve their dreams of selling their goods and services abroad. There is a huge demand for British goods and The Sunday Girl demonstrates that even the smallest of entrepreneurial enterprises can set their sights high.” www.thesundaygirlcompany.co.uk
HOW CAN OUR INTERNATIONAL TRADE TEAM HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS? Right now there are over 1200 live exporting opportunities available on www.exportingisgreat.gov.uk. To find out more about how our local team can support you, contact Alison Avery at 01905 673 623.
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01299 266610 info@affinityvehicleleasing.com
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Contact us to discuss current special offers or for quotes to suit your financial and motoring needs.
01299 266610
“
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Quote parameters can be varied to suit driving and finance needs. Images are for illustration only and other colours and models are available. Finance provided to suit credit history: credit issues need to be disclosed from the outset to ensure appropriate finance suppliers are used.
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We’re on our way thanks to Affinity
info@affinityvehicleleasing.com
MOTORINGFEATURE
WINTER IS AROUND THE CORNER NOW’S THE TIME TO ORDER YOUR RELIABLE NEW CAR OR VAN You may have never considered having a brand new car or van, or sourcing a vehicle from anyone other than a main dealer, but with discounts of up to 50%, monthly prices starting at £64 incl VAT and no deposit deals available, now is the time to consider this option with local company, Affinity Leasing. WIDE VARIETY OF MAKES AND MODELS AVAILABLE Because we are completely independent from the vehicle manufacturers, we can supply a wide variety of makes and models. We can advise which vehicles have the best discounts, and we will compare a variety of finance providers to ensure you have the most affordable monthly payment available.
QUICK AND EASY We can deliver a number of models from stock. However if you would like a car or van with optional extras to suit you, the discounts are still available on factory orders. Most models are available with no deposit if you wish, and the full manufacturer’s warranty is included on all of our cars and vans.
PERSONAL AND BUSINESS LEASES AVAILABLE Individuals can chose to have a straightforward lease and hand back (PCH), the option to buy at the end (PCP) or traditional hire purchase (HP). Companies can select from contract hire and hire purchase. Deposit levels can be set to suit your finances.
vehicles on monthly finance with discounts of up to 50%. Supplied direct from the manufacturer, with full manufactures’ warranty, Chamber members are able to source new vehicles for personal or business use. To discuss any aspects of this scheme or for quotes to suit your financial and motoring needs, with no obligation, call on 01299 266610, email info@ affinityvehicleleasing.com or visit www.affinityvehicleleasing.com/members/ hereford-and-worcester-chamber-ofcommerce and log in with the unique code 'Networking'
HWCC MEMBERS BENEFIT Bewdley based Affinity Leasing offers brand new cars and light commercial
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
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MOTORINGFEATURE
GOVERNMENT PLAN TO IMPOSE TOUGHER SANCTIONS ON MOBILE PHONE USE BEHIND THE WHEEL? If you have anyone driving for your organisation for business purposes, you are legally obliged to ensure that their licence is valid and covers the vehicle they are driving. But how will you check your drivers’ licences, now the Government plan to impose tougher sanctions on mobile phone use behind the wheel? It was announced recently that Drivers caught using a handheld mobile phone, will get six points on their licence and a £200 fine. Under new rules, which will apply to England, Scotland and Wales, more experienced drivers caught breaking the rules twice, could also be fined up to £1,000 and face at least a six-month driving ban. By using a system such as Driver Hire’s, dh Licence Check, businesses can check the status of each driver’s licence in real time. This means you can always be in the know about drivers who may not have disclosed their penalties as they receive them. In
addition regular automated checks mean you save valuable time and money by automatically carrying out the required checks via the DVLA on time, every time, creating an auditable online record – thus providing you with complete piece of mind.
For more information on dh Licence Check call 01905 61700 or email worcester@driverhire.co.uk
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3 King Street, Worcester, WR1 2NX
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November/December 2016
HDC Quarter Pages 10-16_Layout 1MOTORINGFEATURE 07/10/2016 15:08 Page 3
HAPPY DAY CARS FOR A SAFE AND HAPPY CHRISTMAS During the festive season, Happy Day Cars are operating a premier chauffeur service 24 hours a day for the whole month, including Christmas Day and New Years day.
WORCESTERSHIRE’S PREMIER CHAUFFEUR SERVICE
Christmas parties, or a special family occasion, you can be assured a safe and luxurious journey to and from your destination. With cheaper rates than you would imagine, and protecting your licence, Happy Day Cars will ensure your celebrations are without drama, safe and secure. Rates are based on an hourly rate, without excessive increases for bank holiday times. Chamber members will receive a 10% reduction by quoting BD12. Happy Day Cars wish all members a happy Christmas and a prosperous new year. Book now to avoid disappointment, Call Tim on Droitwich 01905 409222.
Christmas Party, arrive in style and go home safely with Happy Day Cars chauffeur service. We are operating every
Book early on 01905 409222
day in December including Christmas day, so you can enjoy the festive period without losing your licence.
www.happydaycars.co.uk
SEE WINTER DIFFERENTLY AT LAND ROVER EXPERIENCE EASTNOR
OFF-ROAD EXPERIENCES The Land Rover Experience at Eastnor is the one outdoor activity that serves up fun and adventure whatever the British weather. If it rains, that just makes our off-road tracks all the muddier! As well as offering half day or full day Off-Road Driving Experiences all year round, we also have a number of very special adventures coming up. Whether it’s a gift or a family day out, a visit to Land Rover Experience Eastnor is a truly unique and inspiring day. You’ll drive the latest Land Rover models over 5,000 acres of Eastnor Castle Estate, where Land Rover has tested the off-road capability and technology of its vehicles for over 50 years.
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL It’s every child’s dream to meet Father Christmas…and there’s something of the child in us all. So young and old alike will love this chance to take a drive through the Eastnor estate tracks, overcoming the challenges of terrain and obstacles to meet Father Christmas in person. It’s an enchanting one-hour drive for up to four guests per vehicle, with a gift from Santa for all the younger passengers. Give an unforgettable experience this Christmas with a Land Rover Experience, Eastnor gift voucher. For details about all our experiences call: 01531 638779 or email eastnor@landroverexperience.com
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
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CONFERENCEWORCESTERSHIRE
www.conference-worcestershire.com
THE MUSEUM OF CARPET, KIDDERMINSTER Mercian Events enabled the smooth delivery of the Skype Link at Headway’s 2016 Conference
MERCIAN EVENTS LIVE STREAMING FROM THE INVICTUS GAMES 2016 Headway - the brain injury association and the Spinal Injuries Association held their 2016 conference at the Birmingham Metropole Hotel and chose Mercian Events for all their Event Support needs. The afternoon session included a Skype linkup with Florida USA, where the Invictus Games were being held under the auspices of Prince Harry. The Skype link introduced Rob Cromey–Hawke, Acting Chair of Headway Forces Support Group. Rob is now a successful athlete, but this was not the case in 2012 when an explosion in Afghanistan left the Royal Engineers Captain with serious spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. He was 29 and was told he would never be active again. Just over three years later, Rob was Vice-Captain of the British Team competing in the 2016 Invictus Games and defended the two Cycling Gold Medals he won in 2014. Rob had only just emerged from treatment and due to his injuries cannot even remember winning his medals in 2014. Through the Skype linkup, Rob gave an inspiring talk to the delegates in Birmingham about his journey into disabled life. Mercian Events are able to do a lot more than connect you to the other side of the world. If you require technical support for your events, call Mercian Events on 01905 726665 or email info@mercianevents.com.
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Capacity: 2–70+ Meeting Rooms: 2 Additional open areas for hire: 2 Total Meeting Space: 40 m2 Parking Spaces: Public Car Park at Museum 01562 69028 collections@museumofcarpet.org.uk
THE THREE COUNTIES CENTRE, MALVERN Capacity: 2–2000 Meeting Rooms: 6 Total Meeting Space: Over 2700 m2 Parking Spaces: 200+ 01684 584927 claire@threecounties.co.uk
THE HIVE, WORCESTER
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Capacity: 2–150 Meeting Rooms: 10 Additional open areas for hire: 5 Total Meeting Space: 817 m2 Parking Spaces: Public Car Parks 01905 765576 bookings@thehiveworcester.org
Capacity: 2–100 Meeting Rooms: 3 Total Meeting Space: 175 m2 Bedrooms: 63 Parking Spaces: 80 01527 541511 events@southcrestmanorhotel.com
MALVERN EVENTS WELCOMES OVER 200 FOR FESTIVAL OF INNOVATION Attended by business leaders, entrepreneurs and students from across the region, Malvern Events welcomed more than 200 guests during the fifth annual Malvern Festival of Innovation. Launched on Monday 3 October, St Edmund’s Hall, Malvern College hosted an evening with Marcus Du Sautoy: “On What We Cannot Know”, which attracted nearly 200 eager listeners. Attendees also had the unique opportunity to meet the world renowned author and Professor of Mathematics and Science. Futurist, Anne Lise Kjaer took to the stage at the festival’s Formal Dinner (Thursday 6 October), held in the Gryphon Room
Malvern Festival of Innovation 2016
– one of seven meeting rooms Malvern Events has to offer. Nearly 100 guests were welcomed with a glass of wine followed by a sumptuous three course dinner and stimulating conversation. The experienced and friendly Malvern Events team organise an array of external business events at Malvern College. Contact Nicky or Isobel for help with your event requirements via 01684 581640 or info@malvernevents.co.uk.
November/December 2016
ADVERTORIALFEATURE
www.barnett-waddingham.co.uk/pearl
PEARL Streamlined consultancy for Health, Wealth and Auto-Enrolment Our three pearls of wisdom for modern, stress-free workplace arrangements
For more information on our services please contact: Rob Thomas, Head of Streamlined Services | rob.thomas@barnett-waddingham.co.uk | 01242 538562 Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
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BUSINESSNEWS
APPRENTICESHIP SCHEME ENJOYS SUCCESS AT OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL
The first jump race meeting in October
BUSINESSES GET BEHIND HEREFORD RACECOURSE Four leading local businesses threw their weight behind the re-opening of Hereford Racecourse by investing in exclusive sponsorship deals ahead of the first fixture. More than 4,500 racegoers cheered jump racing’s first meeting at Hereford for four years on Thursday 6 October and both hospitality and the Rusty Bridge Restaurant were sold out. The commercial support has come from Cotswold MINI as the Racecourse’s vehicle supplier, solicitors Kidwells are sponsoring the Grandstand, The Verzons Hotel is behind the Leading Trainer & Jockey Championship and the Great Chase Owners & Trainers Bar is sponsored by Chase Vodka, who are also supporting Stable Staff initiatives. “We’ve been delighted by the support from local businesses,” said Rebecca Davies, Executive Director and Clerk of the Course. “It means a lot to us to know that we’ve got their backing as we bring jump racing back to Hereford.” For more details about future fixtures and tickets at Hereford Racecourse visit www.hereford-racecourse.co.uk.
BSCs new website
BUSINESS SOLUTIONS CENTRES LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE Business Solutions Centres (BSCs), brought to you by the University of Wolverhampton, is pleased to announce the launch of its brand new mobile and tablet friendly website. Superseding wolverhamptonbsc.com, the new BSC website promotes the business support available through all of its four physical centres; including Hereford and a fifth due to open at Wyre Forest this month. Businesssolutionscentres.co.uk acts as a virtual signpost to simplify the route to support available for Herefordshire and Worcestershire based businesses. Working in collaboration with local partners and Growth Hubs, the site provides a single source of access to a range of resources and topical events designed to help businesses grow. Areas covered include finance & funding, business start-up and growth, knowledge, skills & training and manufacturing, innovation & technology. Gary Dimmock, Outreach & Business Solutions Centres Manager, says: “The new website enables local businesses to easily locate what support is most relevant to them and importantly, how to access that support.” http://businesssolutionscentres.co.uk
THURSFIELDS WINS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR AWARD Thursfields was awarded Law Firm of the Year (5-15 partners) at the prestigious Birmingham Law Society’s Annual Awards dinner.
commercial teams in the past 12 months, during which time the Corporate Team achieved Legal 500 recognition and won a national award for its work.
Thursfields has its roots in Worcestershire and has in recent years expanded into the Black Country and Birmingham market. With a workforce of 120 employees and growing, Thursfields has won a number of significant and high profile business clients recently and the private client base has also grown.
Nick O’Hara, Managing Director, said: “We are delighted that Thursfields has been awarded Law Firm of the Year 2016. This is an outstanding achievement in recognition of our continued growth and success. The award is attributable to the hard work and dedication of all our colleagues who are committed to providing quality legal advice with excellent standards of customer service."
Key lateral hires have seen the firm achieve 30% growth in turnover amongst its
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Oakland International Apprenticeship Scheme students
Oakland International, a responsible family business working in partnership with Heart of Worcestershire College, is delighted with the Apprenticeship Scheme that was introduced six months ago. Talent Acquisition Specialist at Oakland International, Mrs Laura Watkins, explained: “As a significant local employer Oakland International is passionate about providing opportunities for unemployed, inexperienced people in our local community. “Involving apprenticeships within any business has the opportunity of bringing in fresh ideas and allows us to train a person from scratch, as opposed to them having to relearn systems and processes. Significantly the Apprenticeship Programme also fits many of Oakland’s social conscience core values.” A new initiative, Oakland International is looking to repeat the experience next year. Added Mrs Watkins: “By taking part in the Apprenticeship Scheme and offering an accredited qualification together with on the job training, we are continuing our investment in our employees and supporting their ongoing professional development.” www.oakland-international.com
www.thursfields.co.uk
November/December 2016
ADVERTORIALFEATURE
ALTERNATIVE PROVIDERS: THE RIGHT SOLUTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS? Let me start by saying that I don’t think there is anything wrong with going for the mainstream, big name products. (I’m an Apple devotee afterall).
Saying that, I’m also a big believer in seeking out alternative suppliers and most of the software on my Apple kit has been developed by one, two, or ten man bands. The most important thing is that you have the right tool for the job. And that doesn’t always mean having a recognisable logo on the side of it. Finding the right piece of software (or other equipment) isn’t always easy. Sometimes you’ll be tempted to go with the big names because you think that, by paying that premium, you’ll be getting the best product on the market. But that’s not always true. In my experience, going with an alternative provider can get you a system that is better for you and your business, offers you more for your money, and comes with a more personal service than you’d get with the big guys. But how do you find these alternatives?
1. EDUCATE YOURSELF The very first thing you need to do when shopping around is ‘know what you need’ and then read up and learn about the various products. This helps you cut through the jargon that will come from the sales people you’ll eventually speak to and also firms up your idea of exactly which features you need (as well as those that you really don’t). You might start off this education process on the market leader’s website, although I would encourage you to read up on blogs and industry publications to get a good idea of what kinds of options are out there. Once you feel like you have a reasonable understanding of the market, the next logical thing is to head over to your favourite search engine.
2. REMEMBER GOOGLE HAS MORE THAN ONE PAGE When you first type in your search, you’ll find the big names in the industry, without any trouble. But as I said before, just because they’re the market leaders doesn’t mean that they are the right provider for you.
Try looking at the second (or even third!) page of Google. Maybe type in the market leader along with the word “alternative.” I’ve personally found that little addition brings up a whole range of smaller, but still high quality companies. As you find these potential providers, you’ll naturally start to make some mental notes. But why keep it all in your head?
3. MAKE A LIST I’m not normally a big list builder and I’m not suggesting you necessarily have to go through a big Pro/Con process, but writing up a list of all the providers you think have the right solution for you. Why not rank them and make some notes about what each brings to the table. Now that you’ve got your list together, I’m going to suggest something rather radical: give them a call.
4. TALK TO SOMEONE No really, I want you to pick up the phone and speak to their sales people. Yes they want to sell you something, but by talking to them you’ll get a better idea of the full potential of the system and it will give you a feel for their company culture—possibly the fastest way to gauge how they handle customer service.
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
You may even be able to negotiate a better deal. After you’ve had the chance to talk to someone, maybe had a demo of the system, you’ll be able to go back to your list with a better idea of which product is right for you. All of this information might actually end up making your decision harder, but you’ll have far more confidence that whatever decision you make will be the right one. It might be the market leader. It might not. But either way, you’ve now located the tool that is the perfect fit for your business. It’s a process that takes an investment of time, but in my experience, this extra time is never wasted. If you have any questions about OpenCRM, please get in touch. I would love to hear from you. Find us at www.opencrm.co.uk or drop us a line at hello@opencrm.co.uk. Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems.
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COMMERCIALPROPERTY
NEW WORCESTERSHIRE INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY SET TO REACH RECORD PRICES Prices for new industrial properties across Worcestershire are set to reach new highs due to the shortage of quality units coming to the market, and a lack of available new and quality second hand industrial stock is pushing up values. “Demand is far outstripping supply for industrial units between 3,000 sq ft and 40,000 sq ft, as manufacturing and distribution businesses in the county continue to invest in new premises and show increasing confidence in the post-Brexit economy,” says John Dillon, whose firm GJS Dillon has disposed of more than 60,000 sq ft of industrial property in the last three months. “This is placing upwards pressure on prices, so within the next six months I would expect to see new build industrial units up to 5,000 sq ft in the right location in the county touch as much as £120psf, while similar units to rent could reach £7psf.
“Although they are not going to achieve the same levels as for new builds, prices of good quality second hand units in established business park locations are increasing quarter on quarter, and when they do become available are highly sought after, frequently going to best and final bids,” says Mr Dillon. “For freeholders there has never been a better time to sell or to rent. To secure the best price on the best terms, and to find the optimum buyer or tenant, it is advisable to seek to professional advice from a local Chartered Surveyor.
He says: “We encourage anybody looking for industrial or office premises in Worcestershire to register their needs with us, then they will be at the front of the queue when we put a new building on the market. “Businesses looking for industrial units of 10,000 sq ft or more can also use our specialist Business Relocation Service which will identify a business’s needs, space requirements and budgetary constraints and then search on and off the market for a property, as well as, if required, disposing of the old premises.”
“This is especially true when a landlord rents a unit with the intention of securing a commercial loan against the property or later selling on the investment, as its value can depend as much on the strength of the tenant’s covenant, as on the quality and location of the premises.”
To Let For enquiries please call
• New & Refurbished Industrial Units • Pleasant and Convenient Location
01384 569556 or 01299 822731
Wilden Industrial Estates Wilden lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 9JY
d Industrial Units enquiries@wildenestates.co.uk venient Location 058
wildenestates.co.uk
November/December 2016
THE MOST EXPERIENCED COMMERCIAL PROPERTY TEAM IN THE REGION
HELPING BUSINESSES THROUGH THE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY MAZE n
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Visit our website for a full list of available properties
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Surveys Rent Reviews n Investment Advice n Valuations n
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Building Surverying
Bromsgrove Office
Head Office
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13 New Road Bromsgrove B60 2JG
7 Roman Way Business Centre, Droitwich WR9 9AJ
9 Edgar Street Worcester WR1 2LR
01527 872525
01905 676169
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OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Lee Creese t: 07703 404318 e: lee.creese@sixpc.co.uk Elliot Dinsdale business t: 07730 892321 e: elliot.dinsdale@sixpc.co.uk
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OPEN FOR BUSINESS
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MEMBERSSERVICES
I would certainly recommend Westfield to others. Their plans provide maximum benefits to employees but minimal cost to the employer, so it’s a real winner. Euan Cameron, Financial Controller at Parafix
KEEPING YOUR STAFF HEALTHY WITH WESTFIELD HEALTH Affordable health cover that puts your staff first and works harder to keep them healthy. Your membership of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce gives you access to innovative, affordable health cover with an exclusive range of benefits. Together with the British Chambers of Commerce, Westfield have developed the Chamber Primary Health Plan that will work harder to make your staff feel more valued and motivated, and encourage them to be more proactive about their health. The plan helps policyholders to access essential healthcare, diagnosis and treatment, provides money back towards selected medical expenses, and can be combined with hospital treatment insurance to provide truly continuous cover. As a leading provider of corporate health insurance, nobody works harder to keep your employees at their fit and healthy best than Westfield Health.
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WHAT DOES HEALTH COVER INCLUDE? By providing this cover, you can help keep your staff at their fit and healthy best by allowing them to claim money back, for things like sight tests and glasses, dental bills and therapy treatments. They will also have access to health and wellbeing services, including: n DoctorLine™ service providing policyholders with confidential telephone access to a practicing UK GP, 24 hours a day – every day, from anywhere in the world, with optional webcam consultations n Best Doctors® - expert second medical opinion service n MRI, CT and PET Scanning Facilities n 24hr Freephone Counselling and Advice Line and up to six face to face counselling sessions (including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – CBT)
I have used Westfield Health for the last two years, it is a great service. Our Chamber membership entitles me to up to £100 each year towards new glasses, which means I can upgrade my glasses every year at no cost. Phil Gilbert-Smith, Leadership Development Manager at the Leadership Trust
To discover the full benefits of harder working health cover, contact Westfield Health on 0345 602 1629 or visit www.westfieldhealth.com/chamber
November/December 2016
BUSINESSNEWS
Kidwells is Expanding
The newly renovated Wainhouse Barn
RENNOVATION FOR DEWSALL COURT Following a £550,000 investment, the family run events venue Dewsall Court in Herefordshire has completed a renovation of the Wainhouse Barn, creating a stunning new space for each event that takes place at this quintessentially British countryside destination. Dewsall Court has installed glass walls to the previously open-sided Wainhouse barn, which can concertina to completely open up the space to the stunning gardens. An additional space has been added to the barn, which is complete with a living roof, decorated with beautiful wildflowers. Stunning finishing touches have been added, such as intricate mandalas on the new flooring provided by local Herefordshire artist Adam Fisher, and stunning iron work provided by local blacksmith Alex Wilkins. The Wainhouse Barn can now accommodate 200 guests in theatre style and 175 for a dinner, meaning that the investment has increased capacity by a third. www.dewsall.com
INTEGRA AWARD FOR STANFORD MARSH
Adrian, right, receiving the Award
Stanford Marsh is delighted to announce it has been awarded Member of the Year 2016 at the recent Integra “Get Connected” National Conference, held at the East Midlands Conference Centre in Nottingham in September. Group Director, Adrian Painter, collected the award on behalf of the company. He said: “We are extremely pleased to have received this award from Integra. Stanford Marsh Group isn’t a traditional office solutions company; in fact our core focus remains with 3D Print, CAD software and Wide-format systems. Integra however, offer great support enabling us to provide a competitive broad offering to our customers who want a ‘one stop’ solution, while ordering their specialty design products. Furthermore, Integra’s annual conferences never fail to provide invaluable ideas to aid our overall business strategy”. www.stanfordmarsh.co.uk
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
In 2008 Kidwells began trading in rented first floor accommodation in Hereford city centre. Within two years the Practice was the first Firm of Solicitors in Hereford to be awarded the Lexcel accreditation of excellence and we quickly outgrew the office space, taking on the second floor of the building to accommodate our growing team. In 2012 we moved to purpose built office facilities in Rotherwas Industrial estate, proud of our conference and seminar facilities, private office space and welcoming front of house area. It was always part of the business plan to expand outside of Hereford, a natural progression with a large percentage of our Client base across the West Midlands. However, little did I know at the beginning of 2016 that it would happen so fast and that I would be managing two offices. From décor to recruitment and everything in between, sourcing, staffing and opening a second office has been a challenging experience but possibly the most rewarding aspect of my role as Practice Director to date. I viewed nearly twenty properties in Worcester with fellow Director Claire Yardley and accidentally stumbled upon the office space on the Tything. The Agent had only received the keys that day and was without particulars, despite this I had a look around and confirmed my serious interest in the property before leaving. Negotiations began almost immediately and a plan was put in place to prepare for the move and begin trading from Worcester City Centre. From financial planning and forecasting, devising our marketing and PR strategy through to IT and telephony logistics it has been all hands on deck to ensure the move will go smoothly and our service provision will be uninterrupted. The Office will be staffed with specialist Lawyers from civil litigators to commercial property experts, all of whom have accepted positions with Kidwells starting end of October onwards supported by an experienced administrative team which will see the Kidwells Fee Earners double in size in less than four months. I will be spending my time between Hereford and Worcester to ensure our unparalleled client care, compliance and customer service continues. Our Worcester offices are due to open mid-November and we look forward to welcoming friends of the Firm, old and new, to our offices in the New Year and for hosting our first of many Charity events with our carefully selected Worcester based Charity to be announced soon.
For further information: Rebecca Hardy, Practice Director 01905 67675/01432 278 179 rh@kidwellssolicitors.co.uk www.kidwellssolicitors.co.uk 061
NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH BEWDLEY
LEDBURY
ROSS-ON-WYE
Bewdley Traders Group
The Vine Tap Limited
Kalos Marketing Academy
07510 156 708
07769 277 375
www.thevinetap.co.uk Mobile Prosecco Bar
www.kalosmarketingacademy.co Small Business Marketing Specialist
LEOMINSTER
WORCESTER
Supercraft Structures Limited
Encore Communications Ltd
01568 708 456
07740 872 852
www.supercraft.co.uk Manufacturing Steel Frame Buildings
www.encore-communications.co.uk PR & Marketing Communications
MALVERN
F8 Photography
Brightest Bulb
07843 347 998
www.f8-photography.co.uk Commercial Photography
www.brightest-bulb.com Video Training
Glazzard Architects
01299 405 148 www.bewdleybrewery.co.uk
BROMSGROVE Conway Logistics Consultants
07593 599 989 www.conwaylogisticsconsultants.co.uk
DROITWICH Fastsms
01905 672 592 www.fastsms.co.uk Text Messaging Services
SN Financial Services Ltd
01905 757 511
01905 779 697 www.snfinancial.co.uk Independent Financial & Mortgage Advisers
EVESHAM Abssac Limited
01386 421 005 www.abssac.com Power Transmission Equipment Distributors
Peninsula
01386 641 813 www.peninsulagrouplimited.com
HEREFORD
Missing Pixel
01684 566 141 www.missingpixel.co IT Service
Schmersal UK Ltd
01684 571 980 www.schmersal.co.uk Safety Equipment & Services
01684 231 461 www.thehealthyworker.co.uk Improving Health Related Productivity.
Varicon Aqua Solutions Ltd
01981 240 579
01684 312 980
www.battlelands.co.uk
www.variconaqua.com Aquaculture
Cabinco Structures Ltd www.cabincostructures.co.uk Sustainable Building Solutions
01432 853 111
Blue Moon Creative Ltd www.bluemooncreative.co.uk Marketing & Communications Agency
www.fertilefibre.com
Carsmetix Limited Hereford Racecourse
01432 273 560 www.hereford-racecourse.co.uk
Merlin Fireworks Ltd
01885 490 538 www.merlin-fireworks.co.uk
Pets Rainbow Bridge Ltd
01989 730 131 www.petsrainbowbridge.com Pet Cremation and Funeral Services
KIDDERMINSTER Jobson James Insurance Brokers Ltd
01562 215 215 www.jobson-james.co.uk
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Goldby Wealth Management LLP
01905 935 535 www.goldbywealth.com Financial Advice
Headturner Search Limited
01905 418 931 www.headturnersearch.co.uk Recruitment
Place Partnership Ltd
01905 673 190 www.placepartnership.co.uk Property, Facilities and Energy Management
Severn Angels Healthcare Ltd
01905 930 707 www.severnangels.co.uk Nursing Agency
PERSHORE 01386 555 666
Fertile Fibre Ltd
www.glazzards.com
The Healthy Worker
Battlelands Paintball Group
01600 719 218
07790 911 897
OUT OF AREA Hassle Free HR Limited Coventry
02476 992 869 www.hasslefreehr.co.uk
01386 552 803 www.carsmetix.com Quality Vehicle Body Repairs
The Aqueous Partnership Ltd
01386 710 544 www.aqueouspartnership.co.uk Sales & Marketing Strategists
REDDITCH The Cycle Studio Limited
01527 592 962 www.thecyclestudio.co.uk Cycle Retail
TM-Ops Ltd
01527 916 698 www.tm-opsltd.co.uk First Aid Course
November/December 2016
NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH Stephen Allen, Managing Director
THE AQUEOUS PARTNERSHIP With the right sector specific development strategy, The Aqueous Partnership can enhance all aspects of your sales and marketing portfolio.
been re-established, we can implement quarterly growth programs to help the business establish manageable year on year growth.
The Aqueous Partnership, based in Pershore, was born out of multiple corporate success stories using sector specific sales and marketing strategies. By carrying out a complete sales delivery analysis, we can ascertain exactly where changes or improvements can be made. We can then design and help implement a tailored strategy to help the business improve and build confidence to grow. When stability has
Our dedicated team are helping small, medium and large companies across the country improve profitability and increase long-term sales revenues. So if you’ve experienced a downturn in profitability or you simply want to grow your business and explore new revenue streams, we can help. Contact Stephen Allen, MD, at sja@aqpltd.co.uk or 01386 710544. www.aqueouspartnership.co.uk
PENINSULA – BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE LONG TERM The Vine Tap, a mobile prosecco bar
THE VINE TAP – HEREFORDSHIRE’S MOBILE PROSECCO BAR The Vine Tap vehicle is a classic Citroen Acadiane van restored and converted to dispense draft chilled Italian sparkling wine from a keg as well as offering Prosecco and Prosecco based cocktails. The concept has been designed to serve all sectors of the community, from corporate launches to private parties and weddings. Arriving on site to pouring the first glass takes only 10 minutes, with the same amount of time to pack up when finished. We also have a “stop me and buy one” push trike converted to serve the wine which means the operation can be taken indoors. The operation is designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible; the engine for the van is 602 cc with low CO2 emissions and the power for the onboard electric system is powered by solar panels. All disposable drinkware used is 100% recyclable. www.thevinetap.co.uk
Peninsula helps people in the areas of Employment Law, Health & Safety, HR and Employee Wellbeing. In practice, this covers everything from recruitment advertising to risk assessments, insurance to legal representation to dispute resolution and dozens of other matters too. Peninsula are here to build partnerships for the long term. For the day-to-day, and when the unexpected happens too. You can trust Peninsula to bring the expertise you need to solve your problems. When you know
who to ask, the right answer is only a phone call away. The most popular service is the Peninsula advice service. Any time of day or night, any day of the year, simply pick up the phone and they will be here to help. You don’t have to be an existing Peninsula member to give them a call. Peninsula helps more small and medium sized businesses in the UK every day than any other professional services provider. www.peninsulagrouplimited.com
FASTSMS LTD
Sandy Burt, Operations Director
Fastsms Ltd are a UK-based SMS service provider based in Worcestershire. Since 2002, we’ve helped big brands like Pepsi, Sainsbury’s, HSBC and the NHS. Our focus is to provide a service anyone can use, and never charge extra for support. The independent review site Feefo recognised us in its Trusted Merchant accreditation process. Since we started using Feefo, we’ve maintained a 98% customer satisfaction rating, the highest of all UK SMS providers. We attribute that excellent rating to our determination to help every customer, no matter how much – or how little – they spend with us. NetMessenger, our web based service, is robust, reliable, easy to use, and uses military grade security. We also have an
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
API that integrates into any application. Corporate Vision Magazine chose us as the Best SMS Messaging Platform – UK, and the Best for SMS Text Messaging Technology – UK 2015. We were also recognised as SMS Service Provider of the Year – UK and Best SMS Business Platform - UK in 2016. www.fastsms.co.uk
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MOVERSANDSHAKERS
BBR CHAIRMAN CELEBRATES 25 YEARS BBR’s chairman Nick Rumney is celebrating working for 25 years at the Hereford-based independent optometry practice and will be enjoying a Game Reserve break in South Africa. A third generation optometrist who graduated from Cardiff, Nick went on to complete an MSc in low vision in Melbourne and has worked as an optometrist in Australia, Jamaica and Kenya before joining BBR. Nick has been instrumental in driving the advancement of clinical practice by embracing new technology to deliver improved eye care which has not only saved sight but also saved lives.
Jane Gilbert, Richard Sutcliffe and Carolyn Price.
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS AT SUTCLIFFE & CO Jane Gilbert and Carolyn Rice have marked 60 years between them with Sutcliffe & Co, Worcestershire-based independent insurance brokers. Duncan Sutcliffe, director, commented: “It is rare in this day and age to have one, let alone two, members of staff celebrating their 30th work anniversary and we are honoured both Jane and Carolyn like being members of the Sutcliffe & Co team so much that they haven’t wanted to leave! “Both Jane’s and Carolyn’s experience and knowledge is invaluable and we look forward to celebrating many more work anniversaries.” www.sutcliffeinsurance.co.uk
www.bbroptometry.co.uk
L-R Vince Hopkins and Derek Fradgley
DEREK FRADGLEY, WORCESTERSHIRE AMBASSADORS The Worcestershire Ambassadors group of business leaders has announced the appointment of Derek Fradgley as its new Vice Chair. Derek was unanimously voted into the post by the Board, having been a founder member of the Worcestershire Ambassadors. Ambassadors’ Chair Vince Hopkins says: “As a membership we are working hard to help bring Worcestershire businesses and organisations together. Derek embodies what we aim for our members to be: he is passionate about Worcestershire and is committed to working pro-actively to make the county a better place to visit, live and work in.”
BILL SHOTTON, KALOS MARKETING ACADEMY Bill Shotton is a Small Business Coach & Strategic Marketing Specialist. Working on a performance guarantee of NO-RESULTS - NO-FEE, Bill teaches small business owners how to out-think, out-market, out-sell and out-perform their competition and transform their business so they double their profits. Supported with the world’s leading E-Learning Marketing System, Bill will help you to rethink your approach to marketing and lead generation. Following an initial consultation and some free videos, Bill will guarantee to increase the profit of any small business. www.kalosmarketingacademy.co
www.worcestershireambassadors.com
Nicolas (left) with MD Derrick Barker
NICOLAS PASQUIER, JMDA DESIGN
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JOBSON JAMES INSURANCE BROKERS LTD JACOB STYLER, PRINT STRATEGY EUROPE
Jobson James Insurance Brokers are delighted to announce the opening of their new regional office in Kidderminster.
JMDA Design are delighted to welcome experienced Design Engineer Nicolas Pasquier to the team, who brings with him a wealth of industry knowledge to further enhance the company’s next growth phase.
Joining the team as an apprentice in Social Media, Jacob is responsible for looking after Print Strategy’s social networking and website design. In his spare time Jacob likes to watch theatre shows, musicals and also likes to socialise with friends.
Nicolas Pasquier joins the team at JMDA Design’s Headquarters based in Worcestershire, UK as a Senior Design Engineer focused on child car seat design and nursery products, bringing with him over 10 years’ experience.
Jacob said: “I have got the best company to work and train with and I am looking forward to getting stuck in on Social Media and voicing us as a company as we work with highly valued customers and produce the best quality of print.”
Many businesses find they no longer have the relationship with their Broker that they once had. Brokerages are being sold and consolidated into faceless national organisations – but not here. At Jobson James Insurance Brokers, the team are all local, have a vested interest in the business and strongly believe in building lasting relationships with clients both old and new.
www.jmdadesign.com
www.printstrategy.eu
www.jobson-james.co.uk
EXPANSION AT DRP Worcestershire-based full service creative agency drp has seen a dramatic growth to the team, seeing a significant development to the drpevents team. October welcomed the arrival of four new recruits: Josh Berlen has joined drp as a Live Event Show Technician, and Laura Ciancimino, Emma Burgess and Sarah Robinson have all joined as Event Co-ordinators. drp has been employing locally in Kidderminster, Worcester and Hartlebury for the past 35 years. www.drpgroup.com
November/December 2016
MOVERSANDSHAKERS
TALENT REWARDED AT HARRISON CLARK RICKERBYS
Alison, Stacey and Trudy, eResponse Group
NEW DEPARTMENT AT ERESPONSE GROUP Award-winning Worcestershire recruitment and workforce solutions firm eResponse Group are investing in their own staff with the creation of a new Human Resources department. The formation of the three-strong team, which will oversee the training and development of more than 100 staff, is down to the group’s rapid expansion in recent years. The team will be led by Trudy Harding who takes up the new role of Head of HR. www.eresponsegroup.co.uk
LESLEY MEAKER, HALE EVENTS Hale Events are delighted to announce that Lesley Meaker has joined the Sales Team. Following their acquisition of the Hotel, Catering & Retail Show last year, they now run five successful trade shows, and have expanded their sales team accordingly. Lesley commented “After 26 years working as a retail manager for Clarks, I am looking forward to the challenge of working in a new industry, and getting my teeth into a whole new market”.
Talented lawyers are celebrating their promotions, alongside trainees celebrating their qualification as solicitors, at leading law firm Harrison Clark Rickerbys – and one of those promoted has worked her way up from office trainee to associate level. Jessica Poad, who specialises in IT and intellectual property issues in the firm’s commercial department, becomes a senior associate and Alexandra Cooper, Tom Kirkhope and Marianne Normington move up to associate level. www.hcrlaw.com
www.hale-events.com
PHIL MORRISON, HYCONTROL LIMITED Redditch, UK-based level measurement and silo protection experts Hycontrol Limited are pleased to announce the appointment of Phil Morrison as their new Regional Sales Representative. Phil will be assisting customers across the Midlands and beyond, covering an area that stretches from Powys to Lincolnshire. Established in 1983, Hycontrol is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of level measurement equipment. Hycontrol equipment can be found in the widest imaginable variety of industrial processes around the world, controlling and monitoring everything from cornflakes to nuclear waste. www.hycontrol.com
ROBYN ROONEY, H & W CHAMBER OF COMMERCE After two years at the Chamber, Robyn has been promoted to Marketing Manager, completing the Marketing team. Robyn joined the Chamber in 2014 and will be well known to many businesses for her role as a Business Development Executive, supporting new Chamber members to grow and develop. Robyn joins the Marketing team to support the delivery of the Chamber’s Marketing plan, and will be involved with Membership, Tourism, International Trade, Chamber Events and Training.
L-R - Alexandra Carr, Hannah Nicholls, Kelly Pougher, Shane Miller
THURSFIELDS WELCOMES FOUR NEW RECRUITS Thursfields has recently welcomed four new recruits to the Family Law team. Kelly Pougher joins the Solihull team from local firm Sydney Mitchell. Hannah Nicholls joins Thursfields from West Midlands firm Higgs and Sons, Laura Williams joins from Hallmark Hulme in Worcester, and Alexandra Carr joins the team from George Green in the Black Country to work alongside Pam Arrowsmith at Thursfields’ Halesowen office.
OLIVIA ATTWOOD, DOD-DLE Local cloud based accountancy software provider, dod-dle corporation, is delighted to announce it has appointed Digital Marketing Apprentice, Olivia Attwood, 19, to its growing team.
Robyn said: “I’m really excited for this new role and eager to develop the Chamber brand.”
Shane Miller, Head of the Family Department, said: “it is extremely exciting to welcome the four new recruits to the department.”
Having previously studied an A Level in Applied ICT at The De Montfort School, Evesham, Olivia has developed an in depth knowledge of the digital world, and will be able to transfer these skills into her new role, whilst working towards a Level 3 Diploma in Digital Marketing.
www.hwchamber.co.uk
www.thursfields.co.uk
www.dod-dle.co.uk
Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
The latest intake of trainees at Bishop Fleming
FURTHER GROWTH FOR BISHOP FLEMING The Worcester office of Top 40 accountants, Bishop Fleming, has recruited four new trainees to match growth in the local economy. Bishop Fleming has taken on 35 new trainees in total so far this year - a record number - and it is still recruiting. The firm has also accepted five placement students who have joined marketing, tax and audit. www.bishopfleming.co.uk
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LASTWORD
JANUARY FOCUS - LOOKING AHEAD For the January/February edition of Business Direction we will be reflecting on the challenges and achievements of the past year and looking ahead to 2017. For the Last Word, Malvern based esp tell us about their next chapter.
2016 golf day - Nicklin and mfg Group Photograph
2017 CHARITY GOLF DAYS In 2016, The Chamber Golf Society held four successful charity golf days, sponsored by HomeXperts, Nicklin Accountants, mfg Solicitors, Handelsbanken and CB, Chartered Accountants. The events had a huge increase in participants, networking opportunities and funds raised for local charities.
Artist’s impression of the Blackmore Park site to be completed in 2017
ESP – MAKING A GREAT DEAL OF DIFFERENCE IN THE LOCAL COUNTIES
We are very pleased to announce that we have decided to have four charity golf days in 2017, with details as follows:
esp have been based in Malvern since 1990 and are continuing our local success story in the company’s next chapter – esp at Blackmore Park. We are great believers in “keeping it local”: whether it’s our location, our employees or our expenditure, we are committed to putting as much back into the local counties as possible.
Wednesday 10 May - sponsored by HomeXperts Golf Course: TBC
Phase one of the move to Blackmore Park started in November 2015 with the new offices being the main focus. From the outset, the senior management team committed to retaining as much of the expenditure as possible on the new facilities within Worcestershire and Herefordshire. We are delighted to have completed phase one with 81% of the total spend going to companies based in the two counties, with the investment reaching 32 different suppliers. Another 1% has gone to 2 companies within the Midlands and the remaining 18% to 40 companies across the UK. 500 square metres of office space are now occupied by esp staff and include a dedicated sales floor, an operations floor, meeting rooms, visitors centre, shower rooms and a staff training space. Phase two, the construction of a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant, is now underway and is expected to be
completed in 2017. This will consolidate all operations, allowing esp to operate more efficiently, whilst allowing for expanded manufacturing capability and an increased storage and distribution area. Once completed, the new home of esp will cover an area equivalent to over three and a half football pitches and will be one of the largest manufacturing sites in Worcestershire. As with phase one, the vision is to spend our pounds locally; with the projects team hoping to surpass the incredible percentage already reached. Continual investment in our people and our manufacturing capability has allowed esp to successfully expand our customer base and develop a national presence. We currently employ 64 people (95% of which come from the local county) and have an extremely low turnover of staff. esp has a strong belief in their people; without the team our success would not be possible. A comprehensive training and development programme for all staff has been in place for the last few years and resulted in us winning the Commitment to People Development Award at the 2015 Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
Wednesday 21 June Golf Course: The Herefordshire Golf Club Wednesday 4 July - sponsored by Nicklin Business Advisers and mfg Solicitors Golf Course: Kings Norton Golf Club Wednesday 20 September sponsored by CB, Chartered Accountants Golf Course: The Vale Golf & Country Club All events are a Midday Shotgun Start, including arrival refreshments, 18 holes of golf, followed by a Presentation Dinner and raising funds for local charities. For each event several sponsorship opportunities are available from as little as £150. Booking details are available from www.amrosgolf.co.uk, or contact Neil Bettridge at sales@amrosgolf.co.uk, 07792 62035.
www.espenigma.com
January Editorial - Christmas is a busy time, so please send your 150 word good news stories to businessdirection@hwchamber. co.uk by Wednesday 23 November. For more information, visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/business-direction or contact the Editor.
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November/December 2016
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