Business Direction 48 by Distinctive Media Group Ltd

Business Direction

“WE’RE WORKING TO RAISE THE PROFILE OF THE REGION’S FOOD AND DRINK – PUTTING IT ON THE NATIONAL FOOD MAP.” Page 30-34 Issue 44 48 July/August March/April 2019 2018

Specialists in business planning and strategic advice ballardsllp.com

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48 Issue 44 2018 gust 2019 March/April July/Au

BUSINESS DIRECTION

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. The deadline for the "Brexit" edition is the 29th March.

EDITOR Lucy Allen 01905 673 639 lucya@hwchamber.co.uk

EDITORIAL & SUBSCRIPTIONS businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk 01905 673 639 www.hwchamber.co.uk/business-direction

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle, NE1 6UF www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

ADVERTISING Helen Flintoff Business Development Manager, Distinctive Group 0191 5805990 helen.flintoff@distinctivegroup.co.uk

FEATURE EDITORS Ellen Rossiter ellen.rossiter@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

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.

LOOKING FORWARD TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES: MARCH – APRIL 2019

First Word

A Day in the Life Of

The first quarter of 2019 has been an important time for businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Companies have been resilient through a period of ongoing political chaos, but are now having to enact contingency plans for conditions that remain uncertain.

Policy

Business News

Skills

Business News

We will continue to work closely with Members to develop initiatives that we are looking forward to putting into practice in the coming months, to ensure that the two counties remain a great place to do business. In January, we were delighted to welcome over 100 businesses to the launch of the Chamber’s Business Manifesto 2019 at Worcestershire County Cricket Club. It was fantastic to see so many business leaders come out to support our priorities for the next twelve months. As the voice of business in the two counties, I’m looking forward to seeing the Chamber continue to work collaboratively with Members to influence government on the key priorities outlined in our manifesto. I would like to invite businesses to preregister their attendance for the Chamber’s Spring Business Expo on Thursday 7 March. Taking place at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern, the Expo is great way to raise your profile and gain key business contacts with our 120 exhibitors and growing number of attendees. To pre-register now, please visit our website at www.hwchamber.co.uk/ events/business-expo. I am delighted to share that the popular Food and Drink Producers' Zone, sponsored by mfg Solicitors, will be returning to the event. The Zone will welcome companies to showcase their produce and tempt visitors by offering free samples throughout the day. In this edition of Business Direction, we put a spotlight on the growing food and drink industry in the two counties, and speak to five businesses from Herefordshire and Worcestershire. I am pleased to welcome Droitwich Salt (Churchfields Farm), Croome Cuisine, Astley Vineyard, Green Cow Kitchens and British Cassis as our cover features. We will also get a taste of what "A Day in the Life of..." is like for local companies Brookes Catering and Poolbrook Cafe.

Chamber News

3 4-5

Chamber Training

24-25

Chamber Events

28-29

Cover Feature

30-34

Business News

Visit Worcestershire

Visit Herefordshire

Worcestershire Business Central 44 Movers and Shakers

International Trade

52-53

New Members

54-55

Members Services

Charity News

Members Services

Last Word

Finally, I’d like to wish good luck to all those who have already entered the Chamber Business Awards 2019! The deadline for applications will close on Friday 29 March at 4.00pm, and I look forward to seeing even more entries than 2018. Best wishes, Sharon sharons@hwchamber.co.uk

Our Patrons are:

March/April 2019

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBERNEWS

CELEBRATING THE FOOD AND DRINK INDUSTRY AT THE SPRING EXPO

Sponsored by

Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace, sponsored by Proton Partners International High Growth Business of the Year, sponsored by Hewett Recruitment Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by QinetiQ Micro Business of the Year, sponsored by Worcestershire Business Central Most Promising New Business, sponsored by mfg Solicitors LLP Small Business of the Year, sponsored by Orchard Valley Foods NEW – E-Commerce Business of the Year, sponsored by Air Products NEW – Family Business of the Year Entering the awards is free for Members and Non-members of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, and is a great way to raise your business profile, boost staff morale, make your business stand out from competitors and gain invaluable PR opportunities that follow being shortlisted for the awards. All winners of the Chamber Business Awards will be automatically entered into the Business of the Year Award, sponsored by FOLK2FOLK. This award will crown the

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

winner of winners for 2019 at the black tie ceremony in July. Some categories provide the chance for businesses to be entered into the British Chambers of Commerce Awards, where winners from Herefordshire and Worcestershire have previously been named as UK winners. Most recently, Phoenix Group were named as the national winners of the Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace Award 2018, following their entry into the Chamber Business Awards 2018. Speaking on behalf of Phoenix Group, Lucy Symonds, Corporate Responsibility Manager, said: “We’re proud to be winners of the Health & Wellbeing in the Workplace Award. Through our corporate responsibility programme we aim to educate, inform and engage our colleagues, providing tools and resources to support their physical, financial and mental wellbeing. We’re really pleased our efforts have been recognised externally within our region.” To download an application form, please visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/events/ business-awards. All entries must be submitted to awards@hwchamber.co.uk before 4.00pm on Friday 29 March 2019.

ADAYINTHELIFEOF

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF... To celebrate the fantastic array of food and drink businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Business Direction spoke to Brookes Catering Ltd to find out what “a day in the life of...” a caterer is really like.

How did the business start? The company was started by Graham Brookes (Owner) 18 years ago after he decided that he wanted to venture out on his own. He wanted to bring his passion for food into offering people bespoke catering packages to suit the needs of all client events, no matter how big or small they are. What time do you start work and what is the first thing that you do? So, every morning we start work at 4.00am. The first thing we do is turn on all of the necessary equipment before moving on to checking the fridge and freezer temperatures, and doing our opening environmental health checks. Once we have finished this, we finally make a start on the buffets for the day and prep any prepacked vending items that we have going out that morning. How varied are your jobs from day-to-day? Our day-to-day jobs vary massively, and can be anything from prepacking vending products, to corporate day-to-day buffets, wedding tastings, preparing for weddings, dinner parties, hot buffets, breakfast buffets and the list really does go on! It can also include preparation of Spetchley Park Gardens and cooking up fresh soup, cakes and scones before heading on to prepping for Shelsley Walsh. It also involves a lot of moving foods to events around the counties:- visiting sites for weddings, planning equipment, organising marquees, flowers, music and ceremonies – and of course, the daily running of a business.

Graham Brookes and Zoe Whitehouse from Brookes Catering

What has been your favourite event that you have catered for? One of our favourite events to be part of was providing the food at St Richard’s Hospice’s “Worcester Stands Tall” auction last year. Firstly, it was an absolute privilege to be asked by St Richard’s to provide the catering for the event, and secondly because it was such a fantastic event to be part of! The general buzz of the atmosphere as the auction went on was brilliant, and we got to meet a variety of people who had all worked so hard on the project. It was also really fun to design and create the food– especially the miniature desserts! What might people not associate with a catering business that you want people to know? Probably the customer consultation and advice that we provide, which allows us to contribute to the overall success of any event that we are part of. We can consult on the planning of the whole

event, and we are happy to help support our clients. We are often the first people that guests of corporate events encounter, so it is important to give a positive image through the service, staff and set-up to ensure that the event runs smoothly. And finally, what is the best bit about working in the food and drink industry? There are too many to choose from! It’s great because you meet such a variety of people that you effectively end up working alongside. We also get to travel to some amazing venues and be a part of people’s special days. It’s also really rewarding to get that all important “thank you” for the hard work that we do. www.brookescatering.co.uk

March/April 2019

Your local, award winning legal experts

WORKPLACE BANTER - WHY EMPLOYERS SHOULDN’T TURN A BLIND EYE Experience and case law tells us there is a fine line between harmless fun and offensive behaviour. Businesses must be mindful of the negative effect office jokes and jibes can have on their staff and how turning a blind eye could land them in an employment tribunal. Comments that are derogatory, demeaning or unpleasant are potentially discriminatory and harassing. It is therefore critical to recognise when to step-in and when “banter” could form the basis of a legal claim.

GRIEVANCES A toxic environment can leave people feeling alienated and whilst some will suffer in silence others will raise a formal complaint. Failing to investigate and address a discernible complaint will leave a business exposed. This is not about paying lip-service to a process but properly analysing the context in which behaviour occurs to understand its meaning and how the business should respond. Unhappy and disillusioned employees are less productive – affecting a business’s bottom line. A disenfranchised worker could vote with their feet; leaving the business to pick up the cost of recruiting a replacement and potentially being faced with a costly constructive unfair dismissal claim.

DISCRIMINATION Unaddressed banter can also escalate to a tribunal complaint – typically a costly discrimination claim with compensation being uncapped. Broadly speaking, discrimination occurs where someone is treated unfavourably

because of a ‘protected characteristic’: disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or age. As a form of discrimination, harassment is commonly litigated by workers offended by behaviour at work. The principle standard is whether the comments made had the purpose or effect of violating dignity or creating an intimidating environment. It is easy to see how a joke to one person can offend another.

WHAT CAN EMPLOYERS DO? For most businesses workplace banter is part of everyday life, sometimes creating a congenial place in which to work, strengthening bonds between colleagues and increasing morale. Banning banter is not the solution but striking a balance is.

Businesses could: n Invest in staff training – understand and create awareness around developing an inclusive culture at work. Ensure policies reflect the standards of behaviour expected. n Empower staff to raise concerns through a proper channel. n Treat complaints seriously - be mindful that unwanted comments could have adverse consequences for the business. n Take timely advice - something that is tempting to brush off as banter could form the basis of a legal claim. For further advice please contact Lisa Kemp, Associate Solicitor on 01905 677047 or email lkemp@thursfields.co.uk

www.thursfields.co.uk

FOCUSONTECHNOLOGY

HOW TO MAKE YOUR IT STRESS FREE There was a time when concerns for IT departments were simply attending to helpdesk tickets and menial support issues. Whilst these are still important today, IT departments face a host of new challenges, from data regulation and developing technology to security issues and financial management.

This can all sound a little overwhelming, particularly for those businesses who do not have the capacity for a large in-house IT team. Managing all of the different services and various suppliers can get complicated, not to mention expensive. Just when you think you’re on top of everything, a new update or security scare needs to be prioritised. When something breaks or needs updating you either need to pay for a repair or finance new equipment, meaning less budget for other IT projects, which can be particularly tough for small business with limited resources. Having to contact a different provider for your IT, phone, Internet and printers is a hassle and time consuming. And when something goes wrong it all gets messy, ‘Supplier A’ blames ‘Supplier B’, who in turn blames ‘Supplier C’. Sound familiar? But what if there was an easier way, where all of your IT and technology services were managed by a single provider? Many SMEs are turning to Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in a bid to improve their IT and technical operations, at a much more budget friendly cost. MSPs provide the simplicity and cost-savings of only needing to deal with one supplier. Delivered as a service, SMEs benefit from being able to pay monthly with the flexibility to adapt to your growing business. Need an extra user added? Easy. An MSP gives you the ability to add or remove users as, as well as the flexibility to add and update software without causing any disruption to your working day. Every business wants to save money, and a reputable MSP can do just that by reviewing what you are currently doing and recommending new cost effective solutions that you may not have

considered. With the constant monitoring of your network it is easier to maintain and fix things before they cause major problems. Additionally, managed services ensure your costs are predictable, setting out a monthly spend that give you all the technical support and expertise without the hidden charges, or the traditional expenditure from a break-fix solution. For many businesses however, the idea of ‘digital transformation’ is often associated with being both costly and rolled out on a scale that is much bigger than your average SME. The reality however, is that all business, both large and small, and can benefit from digitally transforming their infrastructure. Upgrading your IT systems doesn’t mean having to break the bank. Using managed services can provide your business with endless digital possibilities, at a fraction of the cost of sourcing, installing and maintaining the systems yourself. SMEs that are able to embrace and implement the right strategy at an early stage will reap the rewards, and ultimately keep a competitive edge. For regional charity organisation, Midlands Air Ambulance, investing in a digital transformation of both their IT infrastructure and communications was vital to the on-going success of the charity. For an organisation that relies entirely on donations and public support, they required a new IT infrastructure that would grow with the demands of the charity. Additionally, a new phone system and connectivity solution was also required,

with existing disparate phone systems proving costly and making collaboration difficult. Midlands Air Ambulance Charity have since benefitted from a new hosted telephony environment, fully managed and monitored WAN, in addition to enterprise level firewalling, routers and switches, which now accommodate new circuits and fibre across all sites. For Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, outsourcing to EBC Group has enabled the organisation to make considerable savings across their IT and connectivity, and most importantly has allowed them to re-invest those savings into critical patient care. As a total solutions provider, EBC Group can manage your IT infrastructure both on-site or in the cloud and provide everything you need to run your business including, Information Management, Connectivity and Telephony. We understand that technology can be a real headache, and as an award winning managed service provider you can be sure we know what we’re doing with over 30 years experience delivering managed solutions to our clients. For more information about EBC Group’s IT solutions and services, please contact 0121 585 4400 or hello@ebcgroup.co.uk or visit our website www.ebcgroup.co.uk

March/April 2019

From Field to Fork The 2019 Food and Drink Conference Professionals who supply and work within the food and drink industry will have the opportunity on Tuesday 19 March to attend Herefordshire's and Worcestershire's second Food and Drink Conference.

Speakers will cover a range of topics and partners from mfg will be onhand to discuss legal considerations when it comes to areas of corporate and employment law, tax and rural legislation.

The three-hour event, hosted by mfg Solicitors, financial experts from Santander, and the Chamber of Commerce, will include presentations delivered by specialists who know the industry inside out. It will also provide an excellent chance for food producers and suppliers to network and capitalise on business growth opportunities.

The presenter line-up includes: • Ian Wright CBE, Chief Executive of the Food and Drink Federation • Alvaro Alamillo, Head of International Partnerships at Santander Corporate & Commercial Banking

The conference, which is free to Chamber members and £20 for non members, will take place on Tuesday 19 March between 9am and 12pm at Sixways Stadium. Free parking is available and refreshments will be included. To book online please visit

www.hwchamber.co.uk/product/ food-and-drink-conference or telephone Olivia Williams on

01905 673 600.

• Robert Hardy, Commercial Director of European supply chain specialists, Oakland International

Our services to the food and drink sector Employment Helping hospitality businesses navigate complex employment and HR practices Rural Supporting agricultural clients who are diversifying their operations Commercial Property Advising on the sale and purchase of hotels, pubs and restaurants Corporate _______ Forming succession plans, commercial contracts and leading on mergers and acquisitions Litigation Assisting on regulatory issues, product recalls, hea h and safety, an commercial � dispute matters � Tax � Advising on inheritance tax and general tax planning

.Santander�

info@mfgsolicitors.com

Herefordshire &Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

The Future of Engineering Education

INSPIRING A DIFFERENT APPROACH Imagine a radically different approach to developing the engineers of tomorrow; one that transforms the lives of communi�es that engineers serve. Imagine a university that truly focuses on engineering prac�ce, one that excites and engages learners by pu�ng them at the heart of educa�on. NMiTE is doing precisely this through developing a new model of engineering educa�on with a focus on the philosophy of ‘engineering for life’. Located in Hereford, NMITE aims to secure university status and become Britain’s first wholly new university in 40 years. We will be welcoming our first learner intake – the Pioneer Cohort, in September 2019 (subject to Valida�on by our academic partner, the University of Warwick). NMiTE are doing things differently, with an emphasis on collaboration and communication, there'll be no application requirement for A-level (or equivalent) Maths and Physics and no lectures or exams. Also, Learners will have the opportunity to: Gain a Master’s (MEng) within 3 (46-week) years Work alongside leading industry names with increased job prospects Undertake real-world challenges through project-based learning Create personal por�olios, collate assessments and develop both team and individual work

“ You won’t come here to study

engineering; you will come here to be an engineer ”

For details and to register interest visit: NMiTE.org.uk @NMiTE

@NMiTEintheMaking

NMiTE-in-the-Making

POLICYNEWS

CHAMBER LAUNCHES MANIFESTO 2019 AT EXCLUSIVE EVENT Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce was delighted to launch its Business Manifesto for 2019 at an exclusive event at Worcestershire County Cricket Club on Friday 25 January. The launch event welcomed over 120 business people to hear the key policy wins in 2018 and discuss the main policy objectives and campaigns for the next twelve months. The Business Manifesto sets out the Chamber’s Policy Strategy and the key areas of business that we will engage in during 2019 to create and business environment that is conducive to growth. The Business Manifesto is a collection of Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s key business priorities for local and national government, which have been produced based on the Chamber’s interactions with over 4000 businesses, 600 responses from the Quarterly Economic Survey (QES), Area Council meetings and Roundtable discussions. Nationally businesses have experienced delays in parliament, as increasing political uncertainty continues to impede business preparations for Brexit. Locally, low unemployment and the national skills shortage continue to pose challenges for businesses who are attempting to recruit appropriately skilled staff. The Chamber's Business Manifesto highlights the key issues businesses face and will be used to draw the government's attention towards the challenges which impede growth in the two counties.

(L-R) Hannah Essex, Daisie Rees-Evans, Sharon Smith, Robin Walker MP, Cassie Bray, Poppy Bramford & Neil Schofield

Guests heard from Sharon Smith, CEO at H&W Chamber, Cassie Bray, Director of Business Engagement at the Chamber, Hannah Essex, Co-Executive Director of Policy and Campaigns at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), Neil Schofield, Head of External & Governmental Affairs at Worcester Bosch and Robin Walker MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Exiting the European Union. The event culminated with a Q&A session with the panel of speakers, which allowed delegates to voice their concerns and the factors currently affecting their business Speaking of the event, Robin Walker MP, said: “It was a pleasure to join the Chamber for their Business Manifesto launch at Worcestershire County Cricket Club, to celebrate the businesses who make such a massive contribution to our local economy and make sure their voice A Q&A session with the speakers

continues to be heard loud and clear in Westminster.” Commenting on the Business Manifesto, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “2019 will represent a year of change for many businesses across the country. The UK’s vote to leave the EU has been the dominant issue of recent times and will bring both challenges and opportunities for firms. Throughout the Brexit process, the Chamber of Commerce Network remains focused on providing practical support and advice for members to help them through this time of transition. Brexit also amplifies the importance of fostering the best possible conditions at home to support our companies to thrive locally, nationally and across the world. No one understands the priorities and needs of local business communities better than Chambers of Commerce, and this Business Manifesto is a testament to the forward-looking outlook and ambition Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber has for the future. We believe business is done better together. Your Chamber connects companies that are committed to improving the place where they work, to make them as attractive and competitive as possible. All of us at the British Chambers of Commerce look forward to working with the Chamber to deliver these goals.” To find out more about the Chamber’s Business Manifesto 2019, please contact the Policy department on policy@hwchamber.co.uk or call 01905 673 600.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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FOCUSONRECRUITMENT

EXECUTIVE TALENT UNEARTHED… Identifying the right candidates at Executive level requires a different approach. Traditional selection criteria just aren’t enough – more advanced recruitment methods need to be applied.

These senior level people will be making decisions that help to shape the current company culture and future of the business. The criteria specified for positions at this level are not simply found on a CV. To fully understand if a candidate has what it takes, we need to know much more about that person. Furthermore, the goal for any “Exec” selection criteria is to eliminate time and effort wasted on unsuitable candidates. Using technologies and profiling tools are a useful part of the process but nothing replaces the insight gained from a face-to-face interview. It can be a challenging task when the best talent is in demand and can choose where they want to work in such a competitive environment. They are almost certainly going to be in employment and not actively looking for a new job. As the “baby boomers” retire, the “Millennials” are moving in to more senior roles. Their approach and style of management is likely to be more transparent and collaborative. The first and most important step in Executive recruitment is to do your research and understand what the role looks like now and in 5 years’ time. What would you like this person to achieve? What credentials do you really want this leader to have? Would you prefer someone to grow in to this position or hit the ground running? Think about the culture of the business – is it where you want it to be or do you need someone to

implement and drive change? What are your company goals and how do you see this person’s role helping to deliver these? This research should be extensive but it is worth investing the time in understanding exactly what type of person the business needs moving forwards. At Hewett Recruitment our most valuable asset is our network and connections built up over nearly 40 years in business. Identifying talent is a skill that begins with building relationships and being trusted advisors to clients and candidates alike. Recommendations from our advocates

The success of Hewett Recruitment’s Executive Division is built upon an unrivalled network of senior professionals along with a bespoke search & selection approach to meet the specific requirements of our clients. 012

and connections within our network unearth hard to find talent that others simply cannot find. The highest level of discretion and confidentiality, together with an excellent candidate experience, ensure that we protect our clients’ brands and go the extra mile to find the leaders of today and tomorrow. Ben Mannion, Director at Hewett Recruitment, commented, “The success of Hewett Recruitment’s Executive Division is built upon an unrivalled network of senior professionals along with a bespoke search & selection approach to meet the specific requirements of our clients. In recent times these requirements have included Managing Director, General Manager, HR Director and Head of HR positions, where Hewett’s consultative, well-informed approach has identified the best technical and cultural fit for the business.” www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

March/April 2019

Fruit & Vegetable Wholesale

Safety System Installation

Conveyor System Installation

Drinks Manufacture

Exhibition Design

Building Services Consulting

Care Services Steel Fabrication Brewing Alternative Dispute Resolution Printing Travel Services Printing Dentistry Wholesalers Vehicle Parts Supply Plant Hire Joinery Building Restoration

Tooling

Education Steel Stockholding

Engineering

Restoration Services

Plastic Coating

Furniture Manufacture & Retail

Rubber Extrusion

Packaging Design & Manufacture

Sports Healthcare

Advertising & Marketing

Seafood Supply

Electrical Installation

Renewable Energy

Food Production Financial Services

Door Manufacture

Industrial Transmission Supply Seafood Supply

Display Manufacturing

Chemical Supply

Environmental Monitoring

Parking Control Management

Payroll Services Motor Racing

Glassware Design & Manufacture

Property

Groundworks

Business Services

Educational Consultancy

Presswork Welding & Machining

Insurance Construction Car Trading Entertainment

Aggregate & Waste Disposal

Laboratory Supplies

www.hwca.com

Metal Recycling Sportswear Design & Manufacture

Debt Collection

Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Equipment

Surveying Website Development Scrap Metal Recycling Garden Retail

Tooling Logistics Graphic Design Commercial Property

Wolverhampton 01902 793333

Vehicle Conversion Agricultural Machinery

Furniture Distribution

Hereford 01432 273 189

Assembly Tooling Nursery Products

Cheese Production

Worcester 01905 612347

Manufacturing

Evesham 01386 579999

Lithoprinting

Tewksbury 01684 290 123

Precision Engineering

Debt Collection

Blind Supply & Maintenance Holiday Accommodation Financial Services

Birmingham 0121 456 1613

Architecture

Tamworth 01827 61835

Aerospace Engineering

Printing Equipment & Supply

Clinical Trial Recruitment

Window Restoration & Installation

Ashby 01530 411130

Software Development

Plumbing Road Surfacing HR Consultancy Pipework Fabrication

Clinical Trials

Haines Watts West Midlands

Welding & Fabrication

Fulﬁlment & Distribution Application Development

Rooﬁng Logistics Forestry Tree Services Architecture Car Trading Freighting Windows Installation Law Interior Design Agriculture Laundry

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BUSINESSSUPPORT

WORCESTERSHIRE PARKWAY STATION TO OPEN THIS YEAR Construction work on the new Worcestershire Parkway Station, situated to the east of Junction 7 of the M5 is progressing well. The new station will ease congestion by reducing car travel to further away stations, transform access to the rail network for passengers currently restricted by minimal car parking capacity in other county stations and tackle the county’s current exclusion from the Cross Country network. Station construction is set to be completed during the summer. Once complete, before it can open, it will go through the standard rigorous Entry into Service process. This includes the inspection and testing of facilities, station staff training, driver training, completion of certification and the formal station hand-over to Great 64201 Parkway Railway Advert V02.indd 1

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Western Railway, who will operate and manage the station, and Network Rail who will manage the rail infrastructure. Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Economy and Infrastructure, Councillor Ken Pollock said:

“Every time I visit the site I am amazed at the progress being made. With the main station building now being fitted-out and the opening date expected later this year, the goal of trains stopping at Worcestershire Parkway Station is now in sight”. Worcestershire County Council currently expects the station to be open during the final quarter of 2019.

Construction Site February 2019

Passengers will be able to access current Great Western Railway services operating between Worcester and London along with Cross Country services between Cardiff and Nottingham, which do not currently stop at any Worcestershire stations. To keep fully up to date with the progress of Worcestershire Parkway Station visit the latest updates section of the council’s dedicated webpage at: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/parkway 12/02/2019 17:15

March/April 2019

BUSINESSSUPPORT

SET YOUR SIGHTS ON A GAME CHANGING SITE! Give your business the competitive advantage it deserves – put down roots at the brand new Redditch Gateway in the heart of North Worcestershire, the natural environment for business. Redditch Gateway is a major new business park occupying 1 million square feet of B1, B2, and B8 space situated beside the A435 just 4 miles from the M42 and 16 miles from Birmingham Airport. Designated as a ‘game changer’ development site and supported by Worcestershire LEP and Greater Birmingham & Solihull LEP, Redditch Gateway is a uniquely connected business destination within an area known for its wealth of technology companies, skilled labour market and an excellent quality of life.

WHY LOCATE AT REDDITCH GATEWAY? Brand new business park with great connections to transport and a skilled workforce

Redditch Gateway Business Park

Buy or lease off plan – space available and ready for occupation in just 18 months Skills on tap - established and skilled local workforce, Redditch businesses typically attract employees from the local population (around 84,000) Be in at the ‘ground floor’ of a game changing development envisioned to be a logistics, manufacturing, communication hub for key companies of the future

Access to the natural environment for living – great choice of quality and affordable homes, highly rated schools, multiple retail and leisure opportunities and open countryside on your doorstep To see for yourself the big picture of benefits at Redditch Gateway, why not request a personal tour of the site and a discussion to find out how your commercial vision could be realised? Contact Jonathan.elmer@nwedr.org.uk or call 01562 732552

Holland House, 70 Belmont Road, Hereford, HR2 7JW

NEW CLINIC

t: 01432 356655

The Old Post Office, Letton HR3 6DS

e: mail@herefordosteopaths.co.uk

Targeted Recovery At Hereford Osteopathic Centre our goal is to return you to full health, improve your well being and help you reach whatever life goals you may wish to achieve. In order to gain the best approach we take into account all elements that may be delaying your progress and come up with a plan that fits your budget, goals and desires

What is Osteopathy? FOR YOUR BODY TO WORK WELL, SO MUST ITS STRUCTURE Osteopathy is a diagnosis system and treatment for various different medical conditions. Osteopathy looks at the structure and function of the body. Osteopathy is centred around the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together.

New Patient Appointment: 1 hour including diagnostic clinical and structural assessment to get to the root cause of your symptoms, with treatment and advice. Hereford Osteopathic Centre

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

EBC GROUP TO HOST CHARITY RACE DAY EBC Group is returning to Wolverhampton Racecourse, on Friday 10 May to host a "Charity Race Day’, in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. Having previously hosted a number of successful corporate race days, EBC Group is planning to make its ‘Charity Race Day’ bigger and better than ever, with 2019 marking EBC Group’s 30th Anniversary. Group Managing Director, Richard

Lane commented: “We’re delighted to be holding our Race Day as part of our 30th anniversary and ’30 for 30’ challenge. Our race days have always been a great success, and a great way of raising money for our corporate partner Midlands Air Ambulance. This year is all about charity, and we’re encouraging all of our friends, contacts and suppliers to join us in making this day a real success. Not only will our race day be a great way to support charity, but it will also provide

a fantastic way to network with businesses from across the region.” www.ebcgroup.co.uk

GLOBAL EXPANSION FOR NEWLY BRANDED DRPG

WYCHBOLD FUDGE LAUNCHES NEW RETAIL PRODUCT

DRPG are opening four new offices, including Cologne, Illinois, Dublin and Belfast, increasing the group’s locations to seven.

Wychbold Fudge, a small family business established in 2014, is delighted to announce the launch of its latest product specifically aimed at larger retail outlets.

The group has also announced a multimillion-pound expansion plan for 2019, this includes a 15,000sqft extension to the Worcestershire Global Headquarters, which will include digital design and motion graphics studios, a team wellbeing centre, dedicated space for the DRPG training academy and a roof top recreational terrace. Group CEO, Dale Parmenter, said: “We have an aggressive growth plan over the next 5 years, part of this growth is being fuelled by our increasing global business, hence we feel the time is right to open in new locations.” The opening of the global offices will see an increase in team members across the business. With the HQ expansion, DRPG Studios will be the largest corporate communications facility of its kind in the UK and Europe. www.drpgroup.com

FOOD LABELLING REQUIREMENTS - PROPOSED CHANGES TO ACCOMMODATE BREXIT Brexit, in whatever form, creates a number of challenges for food and drink focused businesses, not least in the area of labelling. Businesses will need to start looking at the potential impacts of the various Brexit scenarios on food labels, such as references to ‘Union' with 'UK', country of origin and the name and address of the business operator. Businesses are in particular concerned about the changes that they might be required to make in the event of a no deal Brexit. However, there is the prospect of some comfort. Helen Davenport, Director at Gowling WLG, said: "With continuing uncertainty about how the UK will leave the EU, it is difficult for businesses to make firm plans and to develop strategies for the medium to long-term future. However, food businesses will be pleased to know that, should there be a no-deal Brexit, they will not necessarily need to change food labels and packaging from day one - as the government is proposing grace periods for some of the required labelling changes."

Building on the successful introduction of their unique “Droitwich Salt Fudge” which has proved popular when sold fresh at their stall at markets and local food festivals, the business has recently unveiled its new larger sharing bags. Not only unique because it is the only fudge to use Droitwich Salt, but the product is made and packaged entirely at home in the family kitchen. The new product initially launched as a limited product in the run up to Christmas 2018, however following popular demand is now being made available across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. To find out more about the Wychbold Fudge story, please visit www.wychboldfudge.com.

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March/April 2019

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Creating a high-performing team I’m lucky enough to work with high-performing teams every day, both in my own office and in my clients’ companies – all have common factors, the most important of which is the leader who sees what their team can become and is focused on achieving that. That leader, with both their vision and the values they instil in their team, sets the direction the team will take, their goals, the measure of their success and their development. Whether that person takes over an existing team and turns it around or builds a new team from scratch – which is much less common – their challenges are the same: • talk to stakeholders and understand the existing culture • spend time finding out what makes the business work and what holds it back • identify what people – customers, employees, shareholders – value. All this needs to be done before trying to change anything – if a leader makes changes immediately, they will not take everyone with them. Once this research is done, the team can progress with a vision of how to achieve the best performance allied to the company’s core values and needs.

A great leader will focus on: • getting the right people in the right roles • creating the right environment – one of trust and cooperation • challenging the team to exceed expectations and appreciating their skills • developing them and making learning an everyday part of work. Who are the right people? It is tempting to say that they are the people with the right experience for the job they can tackle the role straight away. But do they have the right attitude and approach for the role? Skills and experience can be acquired, but the right behaviour and attitude, with a drive to succeed and achieve as part of a team, as well as an acceptance of the company’s values, is much harder to add on. The best teams have strong leaders, but they also trust each other, rely on each other’s skills and experience, protect each other when something goes wrong, and work together to achieve their common goal. Like the Red Arrows, great teams work together to achieve the extraordinary. Talk to Arpinder Dhillon Partner, Corporate T: 01905 744 810 M: 07958 134 281 E: adhillon@hcrlaw.com You’ve read what I think, now tell me what you think on LinkedIn

In my view, the key thing is to identify ‘what will success look like?’. This question always drives a clear understanding of what you want to achieve and the actions which are needed to achieve it. Without this clarity it is unlikely that you will achieve your goals. Once you have answered this key question communicate your vision and your plan, build the right environment, encourage trust and cooperation among the team and don’t be afraid to take a risk. Frank Myers MBE, Chairman of Herefordshire Business Board and Managing Director of Ross-on-Wye based MCP Systems Consultants, Ltd.

Building your team? Issue contracts of employment to staff as soon as they join you – or risk a tribunal fine In a recent case (Stefanko v The Maritime Hotel Ltd) the Employment Appeal Tribunal fined an employer who had failed to provide an employee with a contract, even though she had left their employment within six weeks of starting work. This case heralds an important change to the generally held view that an employer has two months’ grace in which to provide its employees with a contract. Most employers know that under the Employment Rights Act 1996 (Section 1) we have to provide employees with a Statement of Terms and Conditions of Employment (including all the required information) within two months’ of the employee starting work. It is less well-known that tribunals will generally award up to four weeks’ pay on top of any damages for any other claim brought, as a penalty to an employer who has failed to comply with this requirement. In the Stefanko case, the first tribunal did not order a penalty payment against the employer because the employee had been employed for less than two months before she was dismissed. The Employment Appeal Tribunal overturned this decision, however, and fined the employer, stating that employees who have at least one month’s service have all the rights required by the legislation. In practical terms, therefore, if a new employee is dismissed after a month, without having received a contract, then an employer can expect to receive another bill for up to four weeks’ pay if the employee is successful in an Employment Tribunal in a related claim. The obvious moral of the story is to issue contracts of employment on or before day 1. It is surprising how many employers still have staff who do not have up-to-date or any contracts (often the senior and long-serving ones), and the lack of basic protection that this affords employers when things do not go to plan is worrying. If reading this article is prompting you to audit and review your contracts of employment, give us a call to find out how you can be sure you are not exposed to a tribunal. We have a range of services designed for employers of all sizes, from start-ups and microemployers through to SMEs and FTSE 100 companies with more complex needs including internationally based workforces.

Talk to us: 01905 612 001

Talk to Michael Stokes Partner, Employment and Immigration T: 01905 678 545 M: 07807 747 455 E: mstokes@hcrlaw.com

Website: www.hcrlaw.com

SKILLS

MALVERN COLLEGE INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCES NEW CAMPUS IN HONG KONG HOLY TRINITY’S SCHOOL DOG MAKES BIG IMPACT School dog ‘Fern’ joined Holy Trinity School and Sixth Form Centre in Kidderminster at the start of this academic year at the age of 3-months. Over the last 4-months she has been acclimatising to her new environment and getting to know her new friends. Headteacher, Mrs Pamela Leek-Wright stated: “There has been an overwhelmingly positive response from all members of the school community and already the impact of having Fern in school is tangible. Regardless of age, there seems to be a need that can be fulfilled by interacting with Fern, who seems to be having a powerful impact on the emotional well-being within school.” Once fully trained, Fern will be used to support the school’s well-being programme and working alongside the school counsellor, will be a regular visitor to the school’s libraries, encouraging pupils to read to her, promoting confidence and independence in a skill that underpins all learning.

Malvern College has announced plans for a brand new, 250-pupil capacity pre-school on Hong Kong Island. Malvern College Pre-School Island West is scheduled to open in September 2019. Allan Walker, Malvern College’s Director of International Schools, commented: “We are delighted that the success of our first schools in Hong Kong and elsewhere around the world has enabled us to further extend our market presence. The development of Malvern College Pre-School Island West marks another milestone in the strategic development of Malvern College’s international network of schools, providing even more young children with an opportunity to thrive and grow in the Malvern way.” Jacqueline So, Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Malvern College Hong Kong and Malvern College Pre-School Hong Kong, added: “Our new Pre-School is located in the heart of Hong Kong Island and will share the key attributes of Malvern College itself, providing a rounded, forward-looking education within a vibrant, nurturing learning environment.” www.malverncollege.org.uk

SAFARI PARK’S STUDENTS ARE TOP OF THE CLASS Students attending West Midland Safari Park’s Animal Courses have had a great start to the year, with some excellent exam results and exceeding the national pass rate. Students managed to exceed the national level for a ‘pass’, achieving a high number of merits and distinctions for; Level 2 Technical Certificate in Animal Care, Level 3 Advanced Technical in Animal Management and Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Animal Management. Education Manager, Nicola Anslow, said: “We are delighted with the excellent results achieved by all of our Animal Care and Animal Management students this year. It is a testament to the dedication of the Park’s Education team and the hard work put in by our students.” Following the results, the students will now decide to either continue their education at the Safari Park and advance to the next level, or leave the Safari Academy to go to university or find a work alternative. www.wmsp.co.uk

www.holytrinity.co.uk

HEREFORD COLLEGE OF ARTS GRADUATE SHORTLISTED FOR THE SIGNATURE ART PRIZE Hereford College of Arts BA (Hons) Fine Art Graduate Tottie Aarvold has been included in a shortlist of 21 artists for The Signature Art Prize 2018/19. ‘Behind Closed Doors’ was taken by Tottie Aarvold in an Art Gallery in Lisbon during an HCA international study visit and this shot ensured she was chosen from over 200 entries from top UK and International Art Schools to go up against four other shortlisted artists in the ‘Photography and Film’ category.

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Dan Pryde-Jarman, Course Leader for HCA’s BA Fine Art course said: “We are very proud to hear of Tottie’s success immediately after graduation, being selected and then shortlisted as a finalist for the prestigious and highly competitive Signature Art Prize. We encourage students and graduates to submit for national prizes and opportunities, and it’s so pleasing to hear of Tottie’s deserved selection and exhibition in London. We wish her the best of luck for the final award!” www.hca.ac.uk

'Behind Closed Doors' by Tottie Aarvold

March/April 2019

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

DO YOU NEED MORE BUILDING SPACE? WILL YOU BE CREATING NEW JOBS?

Grant support of up to £100k may be available The Marches Building Investment Grant aims to help small and medium sized enterprises, which supply products and services to other businesses, to expand and grow. Grants of up to £100,000 are available for businesses looking to extend, renovate or reconfigure premises or workspace. Subject to the number of jobs being created, grants of up to 45% of eligible project costs are on offer to businesses operating in Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin. MBIG is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The grant is unable to fund core farming operations, residential development, purchase of buildings and businesses involved in the retail sale of goods and services to the general public.

To find out more or to discuss your plans further, contact: TEL 01432 260 662 EMAIL mbig@herefordshire.gov.uk

Partnering with Defence Do you employ anyone from the Military community? This includes Service Leavers, Veterans, Reservists, Cadet Adult Force Volunteers or Military spouses/partners. Then you could be eligible for a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) award. The ERS is a three tiered scheme which encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards. These awards publicly recognise employers’ efforts to pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, whilst aligning their values with the Armed Forces Covenant. When speaking about the 2018 Gold ERS winners, Minister for Defence People and Veterans Tobias Ellwood said: “The breadth and diversity of this year’s winners shows how business support for the armed forces continues to flourish. Their commitment is a testament to the fantastic contribution our serving personnel, veterans and their families can make to any organisation. “We all have a role to play in ensuring that the armed forces community is not disadvantaged by service, and each of these employers is a setting an example as meaningful advocates for those protecting the nation.”

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

If you are a business operating within Herefordshire or Worcestershire, and would like more information on how you can get involved with supporting the Armed Forces, please contact our engagement team on wm-reed2@rfca.mod.uk

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

RUSSELL&CO SOLICITORS

Online Divorce - The devil is in the detail The online divorce system was set up by Her Majesties Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS). Its objective is to remove some of the bureaucracy from often stressful and lengthy divorce proceedings and reduce current delays experienced by clients, using the paper system. Presently, the system is being trialed by the public and a few carefully chosen solicitors, before being rolled out for general use. First indications are that the system will deliver rapid progress for clients, something that practitioners will welcome. Malvern solicitors Russell & Co in particular welcome a more streamlined process. However, Russell & Co warn that caution is necessary, when taking advantage of a slick divorce process. The current process,

although slow, often provides time for individuals to reflect on the emotional impact of divorce and the financial consequences. Where the divorce petition remains the application for financial settlement, it should be treated with respect. Once a divorce petition is issued, financial claims can be pursued by either party. Whether or not they pursue those claims at the time or not, does not prevent them from doing so in future. Either party are legitimately able to do so, even after decree absolute. There is no alternative to good legal advice and it is vital when the divorce process is simplified. It was announced post-Christmas 2018 that a divorce petition was issued on Christmas day! It is extremely likely that the petitioner did so without considering the consequences. Always seek advice before taking such an important step, without it online divorce could be the most costly application one ever makes.

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March/April 2019

BUSINESSNEWS

WORCESTER RACECOURSE ANNOUNCE LADIES DAY HEADLINE PARTNERSHIP WITH ARCTIC SPAS Worcester Racecourse is delighted to announce its new partnership with Hartlebury-based Arctic Spas, which will see the hot tub manufacturer taking headline sponsorship on the racecourse’s famous Ladies Day on Saturday 1 June 2019. Owner of Arctic Spas, David Martin, said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Worcester Racecourse after a successful first year in 2018 by

becoming headline sponsors of Ladies Day. This is the most high-profile event in the racecourse’s calendar and an event that is famous around the county, one which we are excited to be a part of. Worcester Racecourse’s Executive Director, Jenny Cheshire, said: “Arctic Spas have been a great supporter of the racecourse in 2018 and, as a local business that has gone from strength to strength, there is a real synergy between Arctic

RURAL MEDIA HEAD UP TWO-YEAR DEAL WITH THE BBC

Funded by Arts Council England and BBC Arts, New Creatives will see the commissioned artists, aged 16 to 30, receive support and training to make original creative content. Grant Black, Creative Director for Rural Media, said: “This is fantastic news for Rural Media and a great boost for the local creative industry. The BBC and Arts Council England’s investment in us shows how much faith they have in regional talent and production. “Most importantly New Creatives is an excellent opportunity for talented creatives across the Midlands to create content for the BBC and have their work seen by audiences far and wide.” www.ruralmedia.co.uk

www.worcester-racecourse.co.uk

PENGUIN DIVES INTO 2019 AND PLEDGES SUPPORT TO LOCAL HOSPICE

Rural Media, a media charity and production company based in Hereford will head up a new talent development scheme for the BBC and Arts Council England in the Midlands. New Creatives gives emerging artists from across the Midlands the opportunity to create films, audio works, podcasts and interactive media that will be available on regional and national BBC platforms.

Spas and our business. It has been great to see our relationship grow over the last year and we look forward to working closely in partnership with Arctic Spas during 2019.”

L-R: Michelle Nolan (Grace Kelly Ladybird Trust), Ruby Edwards (You Do Better and Funny Blood), Lorraine Henry (Henry Pepper PR), Amy Flemming (Primrose Hospice) and Lucy Wells (Worcestershire Community Foundation)

COLLABORATION IS KEY TO PR SUCCESS FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS Ruby Edwards, Owner of You Do Better PR Agency based near Pershore, was invited to speak at the Women’s Business Forum by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce. A collaborative approach is key to the success of Ruby’s business, and she invited Lorraine Henry, Founder of fellow county agency Henry Pepper PR, to join her in outlining what PR is and the impact it can have on all businesses.

Penguin Office Supplies is proud to announce it has made Primrose Hospice its chosen charity for 2019. The team at Penguin Office Supplies has an exciting array of fundraising events lined up for the year and look forward to raising as much money as possible for the Bromsgrove- based hospice over the next twelve months. Chris Hopkinson, Director of Penguin Office Supplies Ltd explained: “Penguin are based in Bromsgrove and we really want to give something back to the local community this year which is why we have chosen to support Primrose Hospice. They help so many in the local area and cannot continue to do so without the generous support of other people and the donations from local businesses. We’ve some brilliant ideas up our sleeves to raise cash for the hospice over the course of 2019 and can’t wait to get started!” www.penguinoffice.co.uk

Lorraine: “The Women’s Business Forum is always a popular event in the Chamber’s calendar and it was brilliant to see so many businesswomen attending, asking questions and networking. PR and media relations have benefitted countless charities across the two counties so it was great to get everyone together and really focus on what PR can deliver. Ruby and the Chamber organised a superb event.” www.youdobetter.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHAMBERTRAINING

www.hwchamber.co.uk/training

OUR LATEST TRAINING CALENDAR HAS ARRIVED! The last twelve months have been an exciting time for the Training team. We are delighted to announce that we have launched FIVE brand new courses, and welcomed the return of some favourites. The new courses contribute to a diverse portfolio of training courses covering Marketing & PR, HR, Legislation & Regulation, Information Technology, Personal Development and Sales & Customer Care.

OUR OTHER NEW COURSES INCLUDE: Mental Health First Aid Champion – developed by MHFA England, this one-day course qualifies delegates as Mental Health First Aid Champions. This awareness and skills course teaches delegates how to recognise the main signs and symptoms of common mental health issues, provide initial support and develop and understanding of how they can create and maintain a healthier workforce or community.

IOSH MANAGING OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & WELLBEING This is our newest addition. The brand new course was launched by IOSH at the end of 2018 in the format of a one-day workshop which provides practical advice and tools for managers to help create a healthy and productive place of work. We are even more excited as we are the ONLY provider in the two counties, and one of four in the UK to offer this course.

Our more up to date course calendar can be found on our website, alternatively, if you’d like an electronic copy, please email training@hwchamber.co.uk

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Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering – suitable for attendees working in either a catering or retail environment, who handle, prepares or serves food in the catering industry or wider field. On completion of the course delegates will have greater awareness of food handler’s responsibilities within the law and an understanding of basic principles of food hygiene. Introduction to WordPress – an interactive half-day workshop to guide delegates through the process of understanding websites and how to most effectively use WordPress. Looking at how to navigate around the website builder, delegates will leave this course with an understanding on how websites work and how to create a website structure on WordPress. Understanding your Customers - suitable for attendees working in any sector and any role, who deal with internal and external customers and want to develop their customer relationships further. On completion of the course delegates will have greater awareness of who their customers are and what they really want, enabling them to handle every situation confidently.

We have also seen the re-launch of our Finance Skills for Non Finance Managers course. This is a one-day course for delegates wanting an understanding of basic accounting principles and how to apply them. With the first course date selling out in a couple of weeks, we have a second date pencilled in for May and many more planned throughout 2019.

TRAINING IN HEREFORD As many of you already know, we started to deliver training courses in Hereford at the end of 2017. After successfully delivering 11 courses from our office in Hereford Business Solutions Centre, we are pleased to announce we have a further 12 courses taking place in 2019. Our Excel training and PR & Marketing course series are now a regular feature in our Hereford calendar.

March/April 2019

CHAMBERBUSINESSTRAINING

TRAINING CALENDAR JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 MARCH COURSES

Managing Performance in the Team Friday 1 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members £188+VAT Non-members Effective Time Management Monday 4 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members Writing Effective Marketing Copy Tuesday 5 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members Mentoring in the Workplace Wednesday 6 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members Excel Masterclass Tuesday 12 March - 9.30am-4.00pm £200+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non-members An Introduction to Digital Marketing & PR Tuesday 12 March - 9.30am-1.30pm FREE for Members / £100+VAT Non-members

MARCH COURSES Role of the Team Leader Monday 18 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members Assertiveness and Confidence at Work Thursday 21 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members Effective Presentation Skills Monday 25 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members Introduction to Microsoft Excel Wednesday 27 March - 9.30am-4.00pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members Train the Trainer Thursday 28 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members IOSH Managing Occupational Health & Wellbeing Friday 29 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members

APRIL COURSES

Intermediate Microsoft Excel Thursday 11 April - 9.30am-4.00pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members

Managing People in the Team Wednesday 17 April - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members

Professional Telephone Techniques Tuesday 23 April - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members

Mentoring in the Workplace Wednesday 24 April - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members

An Introduction to Digital Marketing & PR Thursday 25 April - 9.30am-1.30pm FREE for Members / £100+VAT Non-members

Fire Marshal Training Wednesday 13 March - 10.00am-4.00pm £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non-members Introduction to Project Management Thursday 14 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members Successful Telesales Friday 15 March - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-members

For more information and bookings contact us on 01905 673 611, training@hwchamber.co.uk. or www.hwchamber.co.uk/training

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH APPRENTICESHIPS from within, you give your organisation the chance to grow organically and the tools to meet the challenges of the current marketplace.

National Apprenticeship Week, the annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships from 4-8 March will bring the whole apprenticeship community together to celebrate the impact of apprenticeships on individuals, employers and the economy. One organisation that will be joining in the party is WCG, an award-winning group of further and higher education colleges based across the counties of Worcestershire and Warwickshire. WCG is one of the UK’s leading providers of apprenticeships - its Pershore College was awarded Training Provider of the Year at last year’s Worcestershire Apprentice Awards.

‘pioneers’ in trailblazing apprenticeship standards and ‘leading the way’ as an educational institution. WCG Apprenticeships works with 1100+ employers nationally and trains over 2500 apprentices per annum in a wide range of industry sectors from hospitality to IT and from horticulture to engineering.

WCG Apprenticeships offers an extensive range of apprenticeships all designed by industry for industry, so you know that your people will be acquiring relevant knowledge and skills that they can apply immediately in your business. It’s expert staff can help you to identify which apprenticeship would best meet your business needs and design training within the national framework. If you are an employer and looking for an apprentice you can find out more information at wcg.ac.uk/hireanapprentice. Alternatively you can call 0300 456 0046 or email employers@wcg.ac.uk to speak to the employer services team.

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March/April 2019

LEGALMATTERS

EMPLOYMENT LAW EXPERTS OFFER ADVICE “Changes already the subject of draft legislation include an increase in the maximum penalty for “aggravated” breaches of employment law, the extension of the right to receive pay slips and written statements of terms to “workers”, a requirement to include more detail in payslips for the hourly paid, and a change in the way holiday pay is to be calculated.

Businesses will have the opportunity to learn about the very latest employment legislation and case law at a seminar in Hereford during March.

Legal experts at Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors, based in Hereford and Bromyard, are holding an Employment Law Seminar on March 19 at the Three Counties Hotel, from 12.30pm to 2.30pm.

Will Morse

Will Morse, employment lawyer and partner, said the seminars were always popular with business owners and those working in HR because employment law is always changing.

“A main area that we will cover is the government’s Good Work Plan, which outlines changes that are intended following an independent review of modern work practices.

He said: “We will be discussing a range of topics, and I would advise anyone with responsibility for employees - regardless of the size of the business - to come along.

“We will concentrate on changes that are already timetabled, but also highlight other issues which the government intends to address.

“There will also be a requirement for businesses to provide more detail in statements of written terms, which it is essential that those responsible for issuing contracts to employees and other workers understand. “Amongst other content will be tips for employers in relation to references, not only highlighting, but expanding on, recently published Acas guidance.” For more details and to book a place at the event, contact Lanyon Bowdler on 0800 652 3371 or email info@lblaw.co.uk

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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www.hwchamber.co.uk/events

YOUR INVITATION - FOOD AND DRINK CONFERENCE Sponsored by

Date: Tuesday 19 March Time: 8.45am-12.00pm In keeping with this edition’s food and drink theme, and following the success of last year’s event, the Chamber has partnered with Santander and mfg Solicitors to deliver its second Food and Drink Conference.

Venue: Sixways Stadium, Warriors Way, Worcester WR3 8ZE Cost: FREE Members / £20.00+VAT Non-members

Alvaro Alamillo, Head of International Partnerships – Santander Corporate & Commercial Banking “Spain as a Market for UK Food & Drink Producers” Having previously worked in Madrid and Shanghai, Alvaro joined Santander in 2007 to start a career in the banking sector. After spells working for Santander in his native Spain and in the USA, he came to the UK in 2015 as Head of International Partnerships, heading a team whose role is to support UK businesses to achieve success in international markets.

Experiential events Chocolate Tasting with Hotel Chocolat Friday 22 March

Ian Wright, Director General – The Food & Drink Federation The FDF is at the heart of the debate on Brexit, diet and nutrition, plastic packaging and the UK's Industrial Strategy. Ian joined FDF in March 2015, after 14 years with Diageo, six of them as a member of the executive committee. Ian is a member of the Government’s Food & Drink Sector Council; he is also a member of the end-user advisory council of Pay UK. He is an active investor/adviser to business start-ups.

CHAMBER CONNECTS

Join us at High Street brand Hotel Chocolat for a relaxing afternoon of networking and participate in a tasting session of delicious chocolates they have on offer. Attendees will also enjoy a hot drink on arrival, a 10% discount code for Easter purchases and hear about the history of Hotel Chocolat. Robert Hardy, Operations Director – Oakland International Ltd “Double Duty Jeopardy – Avoiding Unnecessary Costs in International Trade” Robert is a Brexit Advisor and Registered Expert with EU Commission with over 35 years of achievement in European shipping, freight and customs clearance. Will Kerton - Droitwich Salt & Churchfields Farmhouse Ice Cream "Field to fork" The entrepreneurial diversification to the business' success and food production process.

Can you escape? Wednesday 3 April At this new experiential networking event, you will be divided into teams of 6 and enter a themed room full of clues, riddles, locks and puzzles. To complete and escape the room in 60 minutes you must work together in your group, use good communication and listening skills and embrace everyone’s strengths! To view all upcoming experiential events, please visit here www.hwchamber.co.uk/events-andtraining-calendar.

NEW PARTNERSHIP FOR WOMEN’S BUSINESS FORUMS Sponsored by

We are delighted to announce a new partnership for the Worcester Women’s Business Forum and Conference events. From April 2019, Member Patron Bishop Fleming will sponsor the event series. 028

After several successful years, the forums and annual conference will continue to be designed for business professionals who wish to network, form business relationships, hear from local speakers and share best practice in an open and supportive environment. To find out more information, please contact events@hwchamber.co.uk.

March/April 2019

CHAMBEREVENTS

NETWORKING CALENDAR MARCH - APRIL 2019 MARCH Chamber Business Expo in association with Hewett Recruitment Thursday 7 March - 9.20am-2.30pm Three Counties Showground, Malvern WR13 6NW FREE to attend Hereford Armed Forces Covenant Networking Breakfast (The Bugle Breakfast) Tuesday 12 March - 8.00-9.30am Sulva Barracks, Harold Street, Hereford HR1 2QX FREE to attend (Breakfast included) Redditch HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Wednesday 13 March - 9.30-11.30am Thorlux Lighting, Merse Road, Redditch, B98 9HH FREE for Members & Clients of Hewett Recruitment £35.00+VAT Non-members Worcester Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Wednesday 13 March - 5.30-7.30pm Ashleys Restaurant, 11 The Tything, Worcester WR1 1HD £20.00+VAT Members / £35.00+VAT Non-members Food and Drink Conference in association with Santander & mfg Solicitors Tuesday 19 March - 8.45am-12.00pm Sixways Stadium, Warriors Way, Worcester WR3 8ZE FREE for Members / £20.00+VAT Non-members Manufacturing Forum Tuesday 19 March - 8:00-11:00am Materials Solutions, Unit 4 Coneybury Rodad, Worcester Six Business Park, Worcester, WR4 0AD FREE event exclusive to Manufacturers only Leadership Development Series in association with 3WH Wednesday 20 March - 8.30-11.00am Bank House Hotel, Bransford, Worcester WR6 5JD £59.00+VAT Members/ £79.00+VAT Non-member Sales and Marketing Growth Forum - SOLD OUT Thursday 21 March - 8:30-11:30am DRPG Unit 212, Droitwich Road, Ikon Industrial Estate, Kidderminster, DY10 4EU FREE event for Members and Non-members Chocolate Tasting at Hotel Chocolat Friday 22 March - 2.00-3.30pm Hotel Chocolat, 23 High St, Worcester WR1 2QE £20.00+VAT Members / £35.00+VAT Non-members Herefordshire Networking Breakfast Thursday 21 March - 7.30-9.30am The Green Dragon, 44-46 Broad St, Hereford HR4 9BG FREE for Members / £20.00+VAT Non-members

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

TYRO Events in association with Worcester City Council Thursday 28 March - 4.30-6.00pm The Brick Room, New St, Worcester WR1 2DL FREE for Members and Non-members Chamber Business Awards 2019 – CLOSE for entries Friday 29 March - 4.00pm All applications should be submitted to awards@hwchamber.co.uk

APRIL Can you escape? Wednesday 3 April - 2.30-4.00pm Malvern Escape Rooms, Spring Lane North, Malvern WR14 1BU £20.00+VAT Members / £35.00+VAT Non-Members Business Leaders Herefordshire Dinner Thursday 4 April - 6.30-11.30pm Munstone House, Munstone, Herefordshire, HR1 3AH Complimentary event exclusively for Patron and Strategic Members Worcester HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Wednesday 10 April - 9.30-11.30am Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Severn House, Prescott Drive, Warndon Business Park, Worcester WR4 9NE FREE for Members & Clients of Hewett Recruitment £35.00+VAT Non-members Maximise your Membership Friday 12 April - 8.30-11.00am Hereford Business Solutions Centre, Coldnose Road, Hereford HR2 6JL FREE for Members Worcester Women’s Business Forum in association with Bishop Fleming Thursday 18 April - 9.30-11.30am Spring Grove House, West Midlands Safari Park, Spring Grove Road, Bewdley DY12 1LF FREE for Members / £20.00+VAT Non-members Meet the Neighbours in association with Harrison Clark Rickerbys Wednesday 24 April - 10.00-11.30am Hereford Business Solutions Centre, Coldnose Road, Hereford HR2 6JL FREE for Members and Non-members Herefordshire Networking Breakfast Tuesday 20 April - 7.30-9.30am Brinsop Court, Brinsop HR4 8LS FREE for Members / £20.00+VAT Non-members

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COVERFEATURE

WORCESTERSHIRE WINES COME OF AGE One of the oldest and most northerly in the UK, Astley Vineyard, was established in 1971 just north of Worcester near Stourport. You might assume that Worcestershire is not the best environment for vines, but 48 years of grape growing success would say that you’re mistaken. Today, the climate of the UK is akin to that of the Champagne region of France circa 1970 – thus very good indeed. At Astley, the vineyard benefits from proximity to the River Severn which moderates the microclimate, whilst the soil characteristics provides good drainage and acidity – both immensely beneficial for growing vines. Though you’ll find grape varieties synonymous with the English wine industry such as Bacchus and Madeleine Angevine, you’ll also discover less common varieties like Siegerrebe, and Kerner, which Astley Vineyard is practically synonymous with. Some of these vines date back to the original planting over 45 years ago, producing grapes with great depth of flavour. The results speak for themselves. Many of the vineyard’s wines are multi-medal winning, including a gold in 2018 for their Vintage Sparkling Kerner 2014 which was judged to have an "incredible red apple nose, fantastic aromatics, ripe palate and wonderful nose”. Numerous positive reviews in the broadsheet newspapers have been forthcoming too. 2018 saw a bumper crop, with the hot temperatures and a dry Autumn providing

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the perfect conditions for the grapes. 30 years of vineyard records show the harvest was more than 50% larger than the previous biggest crop. Set up by the pioneering Bache family, the vineyard was bought by the Haywood family just 19 months ago. It’s been a steep learning curve, as Bev Haywood readily admits, but it’s also been a challenge they’ve relished. “We were looking for a project in which the whole family could be involved, including my husband Tim, who’d just retired from his career in finance. However, we didn’t want to leave our friends in Stourport on Severn, where we’ve lived for over 25 years – so this project was ideal.” Astley is not only one of the oldest UK vineyards, but it’s also one of the smallest, producing around 8,000 bottles a year. The Haywood family, however, are not looking to change this, setting their sights on making the most of the existing land, raising the wine’s profile and that of the vineyard as a destination. “We don’t want to change the wine. It remains the core of what we do as the

grapes grown here have a very special quality,” explains Bev. “The property is lovely too and what we’ve been concentrating on since taking over is investing in it, including creating a visitor centre, which the vineyard has never had before.” The results have been promising. Hundreds of local people turned up for vineyard tours last summer, curious to find out more, whilst the new visitor centre, partly funded by a LEADER grant, has proven to be an ideal venue for a programme of special events and tastings. “The last 19 months have been a challenge, but we’ve found our fellow local producers really supportive,” explains Bev. “We’re working in partnership with Macneil's Smokehouse and Lightwood Cheese, promoting each other’s products, and they’ve become friends as much as partners. “Worcestershire and Herefordshire are great food producing counties, with a wide range of products originating from the region. The Chamber and the County Council are putting a great deal of effort into developing the regional food and drink industry and in telling its story.” www.astleyvineyard.co.uk

March/April 2019

COVERFEATURE

STEERING WHITBOURNE INTO THE FUTURE “Green Cow Kitchens began as an accidental outcome of our shooting parties,” explains Joe Evans, co-owner and manager of the Whitbourne Estate.

Joe and Keeley Evans

An estate located close to the market town of Bromyard, Whitbourne has been owned and run by the Evans family since 1860. Almost eight years ago, Joe Evans left his career in financial services to manage the estate. “Taking the estate shoot in hand was an early decision and that meant finding somewhere to wine and dine our guests - so we converted an old piggery into a simple dining room. “It was a low key affair, a pop-up restaurant in effect, run by a keen amateur cook who happened to have previously worked in the estate forestry department during his university holidays. After the first season, we decided to do things properly, kit out the restaurant and open it up to the general public on Fridays and Saturdays - creating a fine dining experience on the estate. “Guests are offered a 7 or 8 course tasting menu driven entirely by what’s available on the farm. One of my early shooting guests was a former Michelin starred chef, who’s taken our chef team under his wing, mentoring them and raising the standard above anything we imagined possible.” In 2016, their hard work paid off when Green Cow Kitchens won the Visit Herefordshire Awards for Excellence ‘Best Eating Out’ category. The year before, Joe was named the Young Agricultural Entrepreneur of the Year at the Three Counties Farming Awards. Today, managing Whitbourne is very much a family affair, with Joe and wife Keeley, “joined at the hip” working to diversify and secure the estate’s long term future Crumplebury is their latest project. “We’d begun hosting events on the estate, using marquees for the receptions - but we wanted to offer guests something more. At the same time, we’d heard our restaurant guests lamenting the lack of hotel accommodation in the area. So an idea took shape to offer high spec accommodation along with an events space. “We’re in the process of creating beautiful accommodation and a banqueting hall

right here on the estate home farm, with the original restaurant at the heart of the project, so restaurant, wedding and corporate guests can enjoy luxury accommodation too.” “Crumplebury will incorporate 12 luxury rooms, which comfortably accommodate 26 guests, along with our new events space. Food remains at the heart of our offering, with delicious, seasonal produce taking centre stage at events. “More and more now the estate is being utilised as a multi-day events destination whether they be corporate events or celebrations such as weddings and birthday parties. “For weddings, clients often like to include informal family meals and events, like pony trekking or meals around a campfire, in addition to the ceremony and reception. “We’ve chosen a different path to many venues in that we don’t offer fixed

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

packages but create a unique experience for every event, tailoring each one to reflect the wishes of the client. “We offer great facilities to the business community, combining ease of connections with complete discretion. Crumplebury is almost unique in being a beautiful, rural setting with good transport links. “You can be whisked from central London to Crumplebury in well under an hour by helicopter, we are in easy reach of a major airport and are only 25 minutes from the M5. “Crumplebury is a convenient and picturesque location for corporate events including board meetings, team away days and product launches.” Opening in October 2019, Crumplebury is now taking bookings for corporate events, weddings and celebrations. www.greencowkitchens.co.uk crumplebury.co.uk

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COVERFEATURE

PIONEERING BRITISH CASSIS Gold rating in the Great Taste Awards 2018, reaching the final 39 out of 12,500 entrants for the prestigious Golden Fork award. Whilst Jo herself was a finalist in the national Natwest Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2018, having won the Midlands Small Business Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

In this issue of BD, we speak to Jo Hilditch, Managing Director of White Heron Drinks and owner/manager of the Whittern Estate in North Herefordshire. Taking the road less travelled farming-wise, the estate has grown crops not always perceived as commercially viable. By the early 1950s, for example, they were part of a select group contracted to supply blackcurrants to Ribena. This tradition of negotiating less charted areas of farming continues today. Jo’s story is all the more remarkable given she never expected to run the estate, but everything changed when her younger brother Johnny was sadly killed in a car accident. Leaving her PR and marketing career behind, Jo joined her father in running the estate just over 25 years ago. Three years later, Jo was left in sole charge, following the death of her father. Drawing on the farm’s heritage, Jo set about diversifying to secure the estate’s future, in addition to encouraging biodiversity by meeting the requirements of the high tier countryside stewardship scheme. Soon the number of acres devoted to blackcurrants and cider apples had increased significantly, whilst the chicken farming enterprise was developed too. Joining several local farmers in an arable venture, enabled Jo to take advantage of the economies of scale, whilst developing properties on the farm into 5-star holiday

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lets provided an additional revenue stream. Biomass generators and solar panels were also installed on the estate. Speaking of her approach to farming Jo comments, “I never grow a crop without having a contract in place.” Yet even the best-laid plans go awry and finding herself with a huge surfeit of blackcurrants one year, Jo set about finding an alternative use for them. Her travels in France proved an inspiration and Jo embarked upon making cassis. This initial batch led to the foundation of White Heron Drinks and their award-winning product ‘British Cassis’, which is now trademarked. Today, Jo and her team produce around 60,000 bottles of the liquor, out of 20-24 tonnes of their blackcurrants.

“Our cassis is sold in retailers including Fortnum and Mason and Waitrose, we make regular appearances on QVC and we employ brand ambassadors too. We’re also looking at setting up British Cassis as a franchise, enabling independent retailers to sell it at agricultural shows and food festivals. “Now we’ve established the brand in the UK, we’re looking at export opportunities. Having voted ‘remain’ in the referendum, I was disappointed with the result. The EU has been good for business and I feel leaving is a regressive step. Brexit won’t be good for trade or the economy on a micro or a macro level. Having said that, our brand has a union jack printed on it and 'British' in the title, we'll continue to make this a defining feature as we navigate export in a time of political unrest!" Jo isn’t one to rest on her laurels. “We’re always looking to improve what we do, to take it further and to find new opportunities. We're excited as we're planning an imminent launch of a new expression to add to our range and then extending into gin. Over the next year, we’ll be exploring crowdfunding opportunities to facilitate this growth. “There are many outstanding independent food producers in Herefordshire. We’re lucky with the land and climate which is ideal for growing crops and we’re good at telling the Herefordshire story too. I feel passionately about the quality of the region’s produce and I work tirelessly to raise its profile.” www.whiteherondrinks.co.uk

Sharing the secrets of her success, Jo is adamant that it’s worth investing in branding, marketing and PR from the start, employing agencies with a strong track record. The results are impressive, they’ve appeared in every broadsheet newspaper in the UK and on numerous TV shows from the Hairy Bikers to Countryfile. Jo even turned down four investment offers after appearing on Dragons’ Den. In just a few years, British Cassis has won numerous accolades including a 3-Star

March/April 2019

COVERFEATURE

LET’S TALK ABOUT CHEESE Nick Hodgetts set up artisan cheesemakers Croome Cuisine in 2010, since then, the company has gone from strength to strength, winning multiple international, national and regional awards. Five years in a row, the talented team has won a people’s choice award at the Royal Three Counties Cheese and Dairy Produce Competition along with being awarded Supreme Champion in 2016. Additional accolades include a 2017 Great Taste award, and ‘Best Food Producer’ at the Visit Worcestershire Awards for Excellence 2018. Their efforts were crowned with a first prize at the Nantwich International Cheese Awards in 2018 for their Worcester Sauce and Shallots blend (with 48 entrants in the class).

him on a cheese-making course. He’s never looked back, creating and selling one cheesemaking company, before founding Croome Cuisine.

Talking about his intentions for Croome Cuisine, Nick explains: “The original idea was to remain a very small independent, selling mainly into agricultural shows, farmers’ markets and food festivals - but we’ve gradually expanded.

“2018 was an amazing year for us, as well as our award wins, we’ve secured grant support for a £400,000 project from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development which was a huge amount of form filling but a massive opportunity.

“Now we sell to well over 100 independent delis, garden centres and farm shops, as well as to the national wholesale trade and we export too. We are currently looking to diversify our marketplace by supplying the food service and are excited to be making burger toppings and relish for one of Worcester’s most popular Burger restaurants.”

“This investment will allow us to increase capacity with more warehousing, storage and machinery, enabling us to develop our export market and develop products for caterers - so we will be undergoing a significant expansion over the next few months.

Achievements which are all the more remarkable when you learn that Nick’s interest in cheese began quite by chance when an injury forced him off the rugby pitch and his concerned friends booked

“Our success is very much down to our amazing team, who are extremely committed and always go the extra mile. We’re a close-knit group of family and friends, many of whom have been with us from the start. We wouldn’t be where we are today without their skill, dedication and personality.

“The very best local produce is utilised in our cheeses, from Pershore Plums to Worcestershire Pears, hops, ale, cider, Lea & Perrins Sauce and honey from our own bee hives. Our bestseller is the Worcestershire Hop - a mature cheddar rolled in roasted hops and people have

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

really taken to our festive Christmas cake blend too. “We’re always looking to develop our range and introduce new seasonal blends; our Rhubarb and Ginger is one to look out for this spring. Our range of relishes and chutneys complement our cheeses and our beautiful, multiple-tiered cheese wedding cakes are also proving popular. “As well as steering Croome Cuisine, I sit on the board of Worcestershire Food and Drink, an association of independent growers, producers, retailers, caterers, & restaurants. We’re working to raise the profile of the region’s food and drink – putting it on the national food map. “We’re bringing local producers and restaurants together, creating a one-stop-shop for the local food and drink industry to make connections, share best practice and offer support. “Inspiring young people to join the industry is a priority too, so we are developing a mentoring scheme for young entrepreneurs and hope to create a new apprenticeship aimed at those entering a small food business. “Maintaining a vibrant food and drink industry for future generations is something about which I feel passionate.” https://croomecuisine.com

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COVERFEATURE

SALT OF THE EARTH Launched just 18 months ago, Droitwich Salt from Churchfields Saltworks is making a splash in the food and drink industry. Already this gourmet salt has received a Great Taste award, multiple accolades at the Ludlow Food Festival and it’s featured on both Back to the Land and Escape to the Country. The saltworks are based at Churchfields Farm, situated within the Salwarpe Valley on the edge of Droitwich Spa, a town synonymous with its natural brine springs and salt production. Yet despite an association that dates back over 2,000 years, no salt had been commercially produced in the Droitwich area for over a hundred years, until the Davies family of Churchfields farm took an interest. A chance remark at a local heritage society meeting got local farmer Michael exploring the possibility of producing salt once again and soon it became a family project, with daughter and son-in-law Will and Gillian Kerton taking up the baton. “It all began in the farmhouse kitchen, with Dad experimenting, using our kitchen range to galvanise the brine’s crystallisation process. The project soon grew and it wasn’t long before we were looking at producing salt commercially.” Due to their history of food production, Churchfields, successfully won a tender to use small amounts of brine water from the pump at Droitwich Spa to make salt, meaning this gourmet product was back on the culinary map. You may be wondering how salt production is viable today when it once proved impossible, but it’s believed that the energy costs associated with producing salt in an inland setting in the 19th Century were unsustainable.

Will and Gillian Kerton

Fortunately, technology has moved on in the intervening years, meaning renewable energy sources are making it feasible once again. As Gillian explains, “the gentle process of crystallising the natural brine to make pure salt is achieved through the use of renewable energy produced by the biomass generator installed on our farm. Droitwich has one of the oldest and purest brine springs in the world, so we’re pleased to be making this pure salt available again. “Developing the brand was one of the greatest challenges, we invested a lot of time in this as it’s so important to get it right. Will discovered a brilliant, Worcester based, agency Design Religion, who understood just what we were aiming for and helped us come up with a design that works.

be organising pre-bookable tours of the saltworks, so people can see how and where it’s made. “The local food and drink industry has been really encouraging too and we’ve been working closely with a number of local producers, including MacNeil's Smokehouse and Buxton Butchers. “Our range of flavoured salts developed in partnership with Michelin starred chef Brad Carter has been another highlight and we’re planning to develop this range over the coming months. We are just really excited about moving forward and doing our best. “There’s an absolute wealth of amazing food and drink produced in Worcestershire and I’d like to see more of it making its presence felt on the international culinary stage.”

“The last few years have been a steep learning curve, Dad would have been so proud of how far we’ve come and to see Droitwich Salt back on people’s tables. Now you can find our salt in delis and farm shops around the region, it’s being distributed wholesale and it’s being featured in some Mid-counties co-ops. “We’ve had a lot of support from the local community, who are pleased to find Droitwich Salt in their local shops again. People have been so curious about the process, that from later this year, we’ll

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March/April 2019

FOOD&DRINK

DELICIOUS AND IRRESISTIBLE BRITISH CHEESES The Truckle Cheese Company has made its name selling outstandingly tasty British cheeses to entice the most discerning customers.

From the knockout English Farmhouse Mature Cheddar to the Baron Bigod Brie de Meaux style soft cheese which graced Meghan and Harry’s wedding breakfast, this company has something for everyone. Remarkably, that includes vegans and people with dairy and other common food intolerances. The Truckle Cheese Company’s Big Vegan Homemaker kit enables people to make their own delectably delicious cheeses, free not only from milk but also from gluten, soya and wheat. It includes step by step instructions, ingredients and recipes to make up the Mediterranean-style versions of Mozzerella, Ricotta, Marscapone, Halloumi, Feta and Parmesan, simply by adding nuts and almond milk. A similar kit is available for people who are not

vegan or dairy intolerant but who like to showcase their kitchen skills. Both kits make about 20 batches – 15kg – of cheese and suggest fantastic ways to use them in recipes such as vegan chocolate cake or ricotta icing. Additionally, there is the Ultimate Cheese Making Kit with everything to make 10 varieties of cheese, plus the Mad Millie 15 Minute sourdough preparation kit. The sourdough kit includes a dry starter culture, tools and instructions to make six 700g loaves of this superb, cheese-friendly bread in 15 minutes without kneading. Truckle Cheese Company scours the country’s farming communities seeking out the very best of cheese makers. Its

range includes Vintage Cruncher Cheddar, Wookey Hole Cave Aged Cheddar, flavoured Cheddars and Wensleydales, Blue Stilton and Shropshire Blue. It also sells a quality range of crackers, chutneys, rillettes and pâtés to go with them and provides the most enticingly packaged hampers and gift assortments. 2019 also sees the introduction of Corporate gifts and hampers Find them online at www.trucklcheese.co.uk and get free delivery on orders over £50. Contact details: The Truckle Cheese Company, Evesham t: 01386 760000 e: customersupport@trucklecheese.co.uk www.trucklecheese.co.uk

Sparkling and still wine from the heart of England Set amongst the cider orchards and hop yards of Herefordshire, our five acre vineyard grows the fruit for our award winning fizz, rose and white wine. We also make delicious, aromatic brandy. Come and experience our tour and tasting; understand more about how grapes are grown and what makes a wine great! Booking details are on the website.

Contact: Jeanie Falconer, Frome Valley Vineyard, Paunton Court, Bishops Frome, Herefordshire WR6 5BJ Tel: 01885 490 768 | jeanie@fromevalleyvineyard.co.uk | www.fromevalleyvineyard.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

COMING SOON, THE NEW LOOK GREEN DRAGON HOTEL As the independent Herefordshire food and drink scene continues to transform the old town into a hub for exciting artisan restaurants, cafes, pubs and eateries, there is one new development that is being awaited with bated breath.

Undergoing a three million refurbishment this year, the iconic Green Dragon Hotel has plans to establish itself truly in the heart of the local culinary community and enable Hereford to become a real foodie destination, encouraging people to travel from near and far to sample all the city has to offer. With a heritage spanning centuries as one of the grandest locations in the county, it is no wonder it was the place where in 1797 a gathering of local farmers established the Agricultural Society which would grow eventually into the Three Counties Agricultural Society and launch the Royal Three Counties Show. With these long standing connections to community, agriculture and local pride in mind, the new look Green Dragon Hotel will be dedicating the entire ground floor to a showcase of Herefordshire food and drink. Launching later this year will be a brand new Brasserie style restaurant serving up a mix of classic and contemporary dishes with a spotlight on local, seasonal and sustainable produce from the bountiful nearby fields. The stylish and comfortable restaurant, just a stone’s throw from Hereford Cathedral and set in the classic 1920’s panelled hotel dining room, will be open to all and taking bookings seven

days a week. Take a booth for brunch with friends, ask about the private dining area for working lunches and birthday parties, or treat your partner to a romantic and delicious dinner any night of the week. Whether omnivore, vegetarian or vegan, the fantastic chefs will have a menu curated to make your mouth water. Look out for special chefs suppers throughout the year too. Espresso fiends look no further, as next door to the restaurant the old hotel bar will be transformed into a quick stop café serving delicious coffee, artisan patisserie and the perfect place to chat over a flat white or enjoy a glass of wine in the evening. No classic hotel would be complete without the Great British institution of afternoon tea, and the Garrick Lounge will be the most luxurious place to indulge your sweet tooth and spoil your loved ones with tea and cake…and perhaps a glass of champagne. What we’ve all been waiting for…the most exclusive cocktail bar in town. Formerly forgotten and now due to be the jewel in the crown of the Green Dragon Hotel, the cosy and glamorous Offa Bar, launching later this year, will have classic romance, fine wines, expertly curated cider lists and exceptionally crafted cocktails featuring spirits from internationally award winning Herefordshire Chase Distillery and White Heron Drinks. You’ll definitely want to be seen propping up this bar. Festivals and beyond! Everything is better with friends, and the Green Dragon Hotel

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will be helping the wonderful next door neighbours at A Rule of Tum (of the award winning Bookshop and Burger Shop restaurants) expand the much loved Indie Food Festival which will be back for its third year bigger and better than ever. Make the late August Bank Holiday a date for your diary and head to Hereford to sample all the delights of the indie food scene, with street food, bars, produce and makers markets, live demos, chefs talks and wonderful live music and DJs headlining the whole weekend. It’s a party all about the incredible independent food community in Herefordshire, and everyone’s welcome to join in. It’s never too soon to think about Christmas Dinner, and the impressive Ballroom will be the best destination for those city centre Christmas Parties when the season rolls around again, giving bigger groups the opportunity to indulge in all the festive treats that time of year has to offer. The ballroom is available to book all year round for parties and functions, alongside a range of other private spaces in the hotel, and the dedicated event coordinators can help plan meetings, conferences, weddings, private dining and more. To hear about all the latest developments and get your name on the guest list for those exclusive launch night events, head to the website www.greendragonhotel.com and subscribe to the mailing list, or get in touch with the friendly team to hear more by emailing info@greendragonhotel.com

March/April 2019

FOOD&DRINK

AWARD WINNING INDEPENDENT ICE CREAM MAKERS, WITH OUR OWN GUERNSEY COWS AND A FAMILY RUN TEAM After the stunning summer of 2018 we have just enjoyed a wonderful winter. You may think that the ice cream trade is completely seasonal, however our theatre and restaurant customers have seen brisk sales in recent months.

Looking forward to the spring we will be visiting trade shows to keep abreast of the latest trends and developments in the ice cream business, and to ensure that we bring you the best flavours possible. Our list of events for the coming summer continue to grow, helped by the anticipation of a summer hopefully as warm as 2018. The good summer prompted some businesses to treat their staff to some delicious ice creams. Perhaps your staff would enjoy a summer party or simply an ice cream on a hot afternoon.

We pride ourselves on the quality and integrity of our product combined with an unparalleled level of customer service. For visitor attractions and shops we can supply on loan a range of branded freezers to display and sell ice cream and also pavement signs and flags. We would be happy to speak with you to discuss your requirements.

For visitors to the business expo, we will be there with some new flavours, so do drop by for a complimentary ice cream. Adam will be pleased to talk to you about how we could be of service to your business. Contact us on t: 01600 750685 e: susan@kelsmor.com www.kelsmor.com

New Four Seasons

四季軒

18 Malvern Road, Powick Worcester WR2 4RU 01905 830238

Enjoy fine Cantonese dining experience The New Four Seasons is a family run

restaurant that has been established for over 37 years. We welcome you to a world of fine Cantonese cuisine with friendly hospitality served and enjoyed in the elegant interior of our licensed restaurant.

Supporting St Richard’s Hospice Giraffe ‘Standing tall’

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

• Ample parking • Disabled access • Excellent vegetarian options

• Local supplier used where possible • Caters for private functions including weddings and birthdays

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THIS SEASON’S GAME CHANGERS

Wholesome Stout is turning heads, winning fans, and rivalling even the world’s leading ‘black nectar’. This smooth, dark, kegged stout boasts roasted coffee notes and a dry, bitter finish. 1985 is a deliciously refreshing Kolsch-style lager brewed using the best of British hops together with European lager hops for a cool, crisp taste. Try them and be converted!

BUSINESSNEWS

PROMETHEUS MEDICAL TO PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR ATHLETES AT SPECIAL OLYMPICS WORLD GAMES The Local Organising Committee (LOC) of Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 has signed a partnership with Prometheus Medical. As the designated medical consultant at the World Games, Prometheus Medical will play an integral role by providing a team of trained medical experts to deal with field of play incidents. Prometheus will also offer its expertise in emergency planning to ensure appropriate measures are taken in the case of any incidents. Dr Mamoun Abu-Habsa, Regional Chief

Executive Officer of Prometheus Medical, said: “We are honoured for the opportunity to support the LOC of Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 in realising the global success this event promises to be and building a lasting legacy and knowledge base for future generations in the UAE and the wider region. Our shared vision, values and aspirations will be a great foundation for the success of this exciting collaboration.” For more information on Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, including

RESEARCH REVEALS £70M BOOST FOR AREA FROM HAY FESTIVAL New research shows Hay Festival’s local economic impact totalled more than £70m in the past three years, generating £25.8m for the area in 2018 alone, up 26% on 2016. Analysing visitor spend within a 30-minute drive from the festival site, the new statistics from independent data collection provider QRS Research shine a light on the direct economic value the festival brings in encouraging global tourism to Hay. Maggie Kerr, Development Director of Hay Festival, said: “Every year during festival week Hay throws its doors open to the world. The festival, Hay’s bookshops, shops, galleries, cafés, restaurants, campsites, hotels and community all give a welcome like no other place. Our research shows how valuable these visitors are to the town’s economy and how important the warm welcome they receive is to their experience. We’ll continue to work closely with our neighbours and friends to ensure that keeps moving forwards, but overall its good news for the town.” www.hayfestival.org

volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.abuDhabi2019.org.

SLICKER RECYCLING ACQUIRES J VANT LTD WYEVALE NURSERIES’ KAREN GETS BRITISH EMPIRE MEDAL A member of the sales support team at one of the UK’s leading commercial nurseries in Hereford has recently been awarded a British Empire Medal in the New Year’s Honours List (January 2019). Karen Jones, who works at Wyevale Nurseries, received the medal for her long and dedicated service to Kingsland Cub Scouts in Herefordshire. She explained: “It’s a great honour and I feel extremely proud. My greatest pleasure working within the scouting organisation is encouraging young individuals and watching them flourish and grow. I’m especially proud when some come back into scouting as young leaders.” Andy Johnson, Managing Director at Wyevale Nurseries, which is a family-owned wholesale grower, said: “We’re delighted for Karen; this is a wonderful honour and a testament to all her hard work in the community. She is an integral part of our sales support team, processing the majority of our landscape customer orders. Karen is a dedicated and committed colleague, who demonstrates wonderful skills both inside and outside the world of work, and she truly deserves this award.”

In a double transaction, Slicker Recycling Limited announced the acquisition of J Vant Limited and the purchase of the Kingsnorth hazardous waste transfer station. Based in Stourport-on-Severn, Slicker Recycling is the UK’s largest collector of waste lubricating oil and provider of waste management services to the automotive sector. Slicker Recycling operate from 10 UK facilities, with over 180 employees and a fleet of 100 plus front line vehicles. Commenting on the announcement from the Kent site, Mark Olpin Managing Director of Slicker Recycling, said.” This is Slicker’s second acquisition in 12 months, demonstrating the growth ambitions of the business. J Vant is an excellent company with an amazing local reputation who will secure Slicker’s geographic presence in the south-east region of the UK. We are very delighted with the opportunities this will present to us, securing market share, feedstock and combining our expertise for further strategic growth.” www.slickerrecycling.com

www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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VISITWORCESTERSHIRE

MEET THE CHEF… FELICE TOCCHINI FELI’S BAR & RESTAURANT What is the reason you became a Chef? My family owned a bar so catering was always in my blood. At school I was very creative so now I allow my artistic talent to shine in the kitchen. What is your proudest moment? I have lots, but I love teaching and passing on my knowledge to others in our demonstration kitchen, getting my two-year old grandson to make pasta from scratch though was unforgettable. What is your Signature Dish? I love creating new dishes and creating new combinations, I created my oddest dish working with the British sprouts association "Sprouty Cake"!

THE FOX AND HOUNDS LULSLEY

What is the reason you became a Chef? Becoming a Chef was a natural transition from a childhood hobby to a career and lifestyle, it’s just always been part of my life. What is your proudest moment? Being a vital cog in our development over the last year has been brilliant. Putting Lulsley on the Worcestershire food map and being recognised for awards is great. What is your Signature Dish? Braised Shin of Beef – especially as it’s a true Worcestershire dish, it brings together such a variety of fantastic local Worcestershire ingredients.

What is your Favourite Ingredient? I love fresh ingredients and produce, I like the smell, colours, texture; in Worcestershire we are so blessed that my favourites change with the season; it’s an impossible choice.

What is your Favourite Ingredient? Because of its versatility and popularity with customers, it’s got to be the humble mushroom. It may sound a touch uninspired, but the number of dishes it can form the basis of, or be used to enhance, is almost limitless.

www.felisrestaurant.com

www.foxandhoundslulsley.com

TIM JENKINS

DWIGHT CLAYTON

BROCKENCOTE HALL HOTEL What is the reason you became a Chef? I always cooked at home with my parents, after university I retrained and got experience working in local gastro pubs while at collage. I started working at Brockencote as a commie chef. What is your proudest moment? Retaining 3 rosettes for the first time, gave me a big confidence boost. What is your Signature Dish? I really enjoy coming up with new dishes and flavour combinations, but Broadway Venison with Jerusalem artichoke, sprouts and pickled elderberries keeps coming back during the winter months. What is your Favourite Ingredient? Over the last few years with costs increasing it’s been exciting to get whole animal’s in, it challenges us to use as much as we can. The asparagus 100m up the road is special. Picked in the morning, cooked and served for lunch, nothing beats fresh produce. www.brockencotehall.com

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GRAEME DAVIS

HICKORY’S SMOKEHOUSE WORCESTER

What is the reason you became a Chef? I've loved learning about cooking and growing food from a young age; I’m obsessed with new cultures and their cuisines, the creative side of being a chef is a big driver. What is your proudest moment? In my past life as a pastry chef I got to the national finals of Academy Culinaires awards for excellence in patisserie. Such an honour. What is your Signature Dish? It has to be super-cheesy mac and cheese with lashings of pulled pork, homemade BBQ sauce and my signature slaw. It’s a favourite at Hickory’s and at home! What is your Favourite Ingredient? Dark chocolate, it's an indulgent luxury ingredient and it satisfies my sweet tooth! It’s a great ingredient to add to savoury dishes too and a superb addition to a super-hot chilli! www.hickorys.co.uk/worcester

March/April 2019

VISITHEREFORDSHIRE

www.visitherefordshire.co.uk

CELTIC MARCHES NAMED AS BEST CIDER PRODUCER Under the stewardship of Susan Vaughan and her brother Robert Hancocks, Celtic Marches has been growing fruit and hops on the family farm in Bishops Frome for over 100 years. Using only local ingredients they are proud of this rich heritage and practice certainly makes perfect as they have recently scooped up a number of awards.

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD – HOPES OF LONGTOWN With Christine Hope at the helm, this family-run and proudly independent village store, also houses the Post Office and Royal Mail Sorting Office. Nestled in the spectacular Golden Valley in west Herefordshire, Hopes performs a vital role in the community with its vast array of locally sourced food and drink produce. As well as boasting a trio of Top 100 Independent Retailer awards, Hopes were also awarded the runner up prize in the Best Small Shops 2018 national

competition recently. This was presented to Christine by Ruth George MP on the House of Commons Terrace. It’s great to see an enterprising local company recognised nationally. Besides offering local wines, ciders, cheeses, cakes, ice-cream and gluten free products, Hopes are also helping the environment now with their refill scheme which maximises the use and reuse of plastic. www.longtown.cartridgeworld.co.uk

LAND ROVER EXPERIENCE AND THE STABLES & HAYLOFT you will navigate inclines, descent and also do some wading.

Evening Standard Journalist David Williams was recently hosted by Visit Herefordshire Member The Stables and Hayloft near Ledbury as he put a Range Rover Velar through its paces with another Visit Herefordshire Member, Land Rover Experience at Eastnor. Here you can get behind the wheel of a Land Rover and test yourself on an hour’s taster drive where

The perfect respite after this is luxuriating in the chic Stables and Hayloft, merely 10 minutes drive from Eastnor. Despite being barely open for a year now, the property was awarded Highly Commended in the Visit Herefordshire Tourism Awards last year after owner Amanda Smith converted the dishevelled barn into a luxury bolt-hole now. The one-bedroomed retreat features oak beams, large screen TV, wood burning stove and imaginative up cycling of original items such as the hayrack which now adorns the bedroom.

As well as receiving international recognition earlier last year, Celtic Marches have recently been named as the Best Cider Producer of 2018 at the Herefordshire Food and Drink Awards. Gwatkin Cider Company Ltd from Abbeydore and Leominster-based Newton Court Cider were named as the runners up. All cider apples that are used to make its produce are grown in 200-acres of orchards on the family farm, which has been run and owned by the family for over 100 years. This means that Celtic Marches has control over its cider all the way through the process from tree to glass, with PGI status to confirm that they only use 100% Herefordshire apples within its award-winning ciders. The past five years has demonstrated a huge amount of success for Celtic Marches, from its launch in 2013 with only Susan and her brother as employees to present day with 25 members of staff. The recognition shows that the demand for Celtic Marches’ craft cider has increased nationally and internationally alike. www.celticmarches.com

www.stablesandhayloft.co.uk and www.eastnor.landroverexperience.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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WORCESTERSHIREBUSINESSCENTRAL

www.business-central.co.uk

AN INTRODUCTION TO INSPIRING GROWTH: JOURNEY TO SUCCESS Inspiring Growth is a new dynamic business support campaign created by Worcestershire Business Central to discover the unique businesses in Worcestershire with strong growth ambitions, an entrepreneurial spirit, and are looking to maximise their opportunities in Worcestershire. Worcestershire Business Central, the government-supported Growth Hub for the county, has been in contact and helped support over 8,500 local businesses since 2015. Utilising the support programmes the Growth Hub can already offer, Inspiring Growth will look to continue this support, whilst identifying the scale-up businesses in the county who will drive the economic growth for Worcestershire. The Inspiring Growth campaign through a series of Business Development Roundtables, scale-up support events, and much more, will offer local companies the opportunity to network peer-to-peer, discuss barriers to growth, and create actions to lead them on their journey to success. The Business Development Roundtables will feature key speakers from established businesses that share their business

acumen with delegates on a wide range of topics. Past topics have included: digital marketing, social media, sales pipeline, time management, and procurement. Our future Business Development Roundtables will take place on the following dates: Date and Venue Wednesday 03/04/2019 Bank House Hotel, Worcester, WR6 5JD Thursday 09/05/2019 Wyre Forest House, Kidderminster, DY11 7WF Thursday 01/08/2019 Malvern District Council, Malvern, WR14 3AF Monday 02/09/2019 Wychavon District Council, Evesham, WR10 1PT To find out more about Inspiring Growth, to book for future events, or to discover the support available for your business, please contact 01905 677888 or email info@business-central.co.uk

GREENSAFE IT – ONE YEAR ON cost of building improvement works. Now one year on in their journey to expansion following the grant, Business Direction visited the site to see the transformation of its premises.

Last year, Business Direction spoke to John Sansom, Managing Director, of Greensafe IT Ltd to find out how Worcestershire Business Central (WBC) helped set the groundwork in motion in the company being awarded the full €200,000 through the Property Investment Programme (PIP) grant. The grant is designed to help businesses to improve their commercial premises by providing financial support towards the

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GREEN LIGHTS ARE GO! AT CHAMBER EXPO Come say hello to the Worcestershire Business Central team at the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Expo at the Three Counties Showground on the 7 March 2019, and be inspired on your business journey to success. Our dedicated team will be on hand to offer guidance to accelerate the growth of your business, steering you to the support and funding that will turn the corner for your business. With over 1000 delegates expected in attendance, over 120 exhibitors, and FREE entry, the Chamber Expo is the perfect opportunity to raise your business profile, network with other business professionals, and discover the FREE support available at the Worcestershire Business Central stand. In addition, if you fancy yourself to be a Lewis Hamilton or Sebastian Vettel or simply have a competitive streak, you will have the chance to try to be first over the finishing line on our dual racing simulator and be in with a chance of winning a prize. So if you’re looking to start-up a business, or one looking to grow, be sure to visit the Worcestershire Business Central stand to get set on your journey to success.

Speaking of the improvements, John Sansom commented: “Thank you to Worcestershire Business Central - in particular Gwen Davies, who was the catalyst towards introductions to people and organisations – for helping us to achieve an affordable solution. The change to our facilities means that Greensafe is best placed to manage continued high growth and success and has provided additional full time employment for over 30 staff.” To find out more information about all available grants and funding, please contact the WBC team on info@business-central.co.uk.

March/April 2019

All your business needs. All in one place. CONTACT OUR TEAM TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN SUPPORT YOUR BUSINESS TO GROW 01905 677888 www.business-central.co.uk info@business-central.co.uk @WBCUpdates

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

ARE YOU ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS IN BUSINESS? Do you have a process in place to safeguard your business from potential risk? Do you screen new clients and suppliers? What do you really know about these partnerships? Can your new supplier really deliver on time – or are they a smaller operation than you understood them to be? Is your shiny, new customer a habitual late payer or do they have a history of not paying at all? Could you be left for months waiting on payment, struggling with cash flow and unable to pay suppliers or invest in new business? Are you relying on gut instinct or do you have a more rigorous risk strategy at play? Successful business leaders make a habit of knowing the answers to these questions. Whilst gut instinct is not to be underestimated in business, something more tangible is prudent, so having all the key facts about another business is vital in order to avoid poor decision making. By implementing a risk management strategy, your company will increase successes,

DID YOU KNOW THAT IDENTECO’S BUSINESS SUPPORT TOOLKIT WILL PROVIDE ALL THIS INFORMATION FOR £79.95 + VAT PER YEAR? The online portal provides detailed financial reporting on over 6 million UK companies, unique financial health ratings and creditor days’ intelligence to help businesses understand their customers and suppliers. The subscription also includes many other vital business services such as data compliance audits and new market entrants information. However, we believe that the jewel in the crown for identeco subscribers is the unlimited B2B compliant marketing lists that provide data for telemarketing, email or mail campaigns which enable companies to reach and engage with new customers. And with an appealing price tag - subscription is priced at £79.95 + VAT per year - it’s a no brainer for any savvy business.

experience growth, reduce failures and hold the information to negotiate better terms and conditions for your business. Whilst due diligence doesn’t exactly get the blood pumping, a full understanding of the capabilities of new clients, prospects or partners will protect and sustain your business in today’s challenging commercial environment.

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MOVERSANDSHAKERS

NEW APPOINTMENT FOR HALLMARK HULME’S BUSINESS TEAM Hallmark Hulme is pleased to announce the appointment of experienced solicitor Rebecca Hastings to its business team. Working closely with companies to offer pragmatic, commercially-focused advice, Rebecca said “I look forward to bringing my corporate experience to the firm and building long term relationships with local business owners and managers”. www.hallmarkhulme.co.uk

OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL APPOINTS GENERAL MANAGER

WARRIORS APPOINT NEW HEAD OF COMMERCIAL

Oakland International has appointed Bob Richards to the post of General Manager at its Redditch facility.

Warriors are delighted to announce that Gill Wood has been appointed as the Club’s Head of Commercial.

Bob has 30 years of management experience and a proven track record in continual improvement, man-management and process management. Bob said: “I’m really excited about joining a great business with real growth potential in a challenging market place. Seeing the business in peak trading will help me formulate and support the design of the business strategy going forward.” www.oakland-international.com

NEW LITIGATION EXPERT BOOSTS DISPUTED WILLS AND ESTATES TEAM Beth King-Smith joins Harrison Clark Rickerbys as Partner and head of disputed wills, trusts and estates. Beth said: “Contentious probate, where wills, inheritances and probate are disputed, is a growing area, and one which presents people with very complex and upsetting challenges. I am very much looking forward to working with the dispute resolution team here maintaining their excellent reputation for resolving issues.”

Gill brings with her a wealth of experience after enjoying success as Group Advertising Director at Centaur Media for 20 years. Gill said: “I am really excited to work alongside the new owners and help drive the Commercial Team to future success. “Our Hospitality guests, sponsors and partners are vital to the future of the Club and I am looking forward to developing our relationships further.” www.warriors.co.uk

www.hcrlaw.com

NEW APPOINTMENT AT CHARTERED INSURANCE BROKER Hazelton Mountford has welcomed Charlotte Manning following a successful recruitment drive. Charlotte joins the Tenant Referencing arm of Hazelton Mountford, as Referencing Administrator.

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NEW ADDITION FOR SUTCLIFFE & CO Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Brokers is pleased to announce a new role for industry veteran Simon Egerton, who has been promoted to the National Sales position.

NEW PROMOTIONS FOR HEWETT RECRUITMENT Hewett Recruitment is delighted to announce another round of promotions for Lisa Marshall, Sarah Curtis and Jennie Lessemun who have all been promoted to Senior Consultant. Lisa and Sarah work on Hewett’s large Industrial Temp desk, while Jennie is a key member of the fast-growing IT Division.

THURSFIELDS LAUNCHES SPECIALIST RETAIL & LEISURE TEAM Thursfields Solicitors has launched a new Retail & Leisure Team made up of industry specialists who can provide a one stop service for retailers and leisure operators of all shapes and sizes across the Midlands region and beyond.

Charlotte said: “My role ensures that the process of validating a tenant’s references runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible. I am thrilled with my new job and thoroughly appreciate how welcoming, kind and supportive everyone is. Thanks to everyone at the firm for welcoming me to the team.”

Duncan Sutcliffe, director: “Simon has built up a fantastic reputation within the insurance industry so it made perfect sense to put him in charge of National Sales.” Simon added: “I’m extremely excited about this new role, which gives me the opportunity to help the continued growth of Sutcliffe & Co.”

There were two further promotions in the IT Division with Sam Birtwistle becoming IT Divisional Manager and Dominic Aston his counterpart in Engineering.

The team will be headed by Rob Pettigrew, a commercial property director based in Thursfields’ Solihull office. The team also includes corporate and commercial director Jane Rudge and associate Jade Linton, a specialist in employment and HR issues.

www.hazeltonmountford.co.uk.

www.sutcliffeinsurance.co.uk

www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

www.thursfields.co.uk

March/April 2019

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

MAGIC AND MOTIVATION: REMEMBERING THAT WORDS HAVE POWER Just finished reading “Magic Words: The Science and Secrets Behind Seven Words That Motivate, Engage, and Influence” by Tim David and it really got me thinking about how much impact my actual words have on the people around me. Tim David’s basic argument is that the words you choose to use and the way you structure your sentences can make a huge impact on the responses you are going to get out of the people around you. He says there are certain key “magic words” that, when used correctly, will not only make you a generally better communicator, but will actually help you motivate your team more effectively. “Magic words motivate others, and thus make you a more effective communicator.” The key word here being “motivate” - not force. He isn’t arguing that you can trick or force people to do what you tell them. But rather using words to make them really think about what you’re asking, giving them agency in the decisions, and making them feel more included. I’m going to go through a couple of Tim’s magic words and then talk a little about one that isn’t in his book, but that I’ve found has the same effect.

ASK QUESTIONS THAT PEOPLE CAN ANSWER “YES” TO When you are asking an employee to do something for you, maybe it’s asking for their help on a project or directing them to tidy their workspace before a client visit. Instead of telling them to do it: “I’m going to have you pick up this work” or “Clean your desk, we’ve got a guest today” Try asking them a question that they can say “yes” to: “Would you mind helping me on this project?” or “Do you have time to give your desk a quick tidy?” They may say no, but instead of your request being an order to be followed, it’ll be a job they’ve agreed to pick up. This will motivate them because you’ve given them the opportunity to really take ownership of the task. (The same works with kids, by the way, done that for years with ours.)

THE REASONS BEHIND “BECAUSE” Along the same lines as asking instead of telling, David writes about how giving someone a reason for what you’re doing

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will motivate them better than simply doing it. “...you can’t force someone to feel motivated. They have to find that motivation on their own.” And that’s not just for you, getting people to tell you their reason behind what they’re doing or why it is or isn’t working gives you information, but also gives them a motivator of their own. It may be something they can be proud of or it might be a focus that they can use to improve their work. So for example, you might need to take a project off their desk. Instead of saying “I’m giving this project to so-and-so” you’ll get a better response if you say “I’m giving this project to so-and-so, because they’ve got some free time today to look at it.” You aren’t asking permission, but you are telling them that all important WHY. It will also stop them wondering if they’ve done something wrong.

A WORD OF MY OWN The book goes on to discuss other “magic” words, like “help” and “thanks” – all of which can have an important impact on motivating and encouraging people. But I’d like to add a magic word of my own…actually, it’s more of a phrase…and that is “what do you think?”.

Asking people for their opinion on something and actually listening to it is a great way to motivate someone. It gives people a sense of ownership in their work and, at least in my experience, gives you an insight into how they’re feeling, how their department is doing, and might give you a better idea than what you came up with! (That’s the benefit of hiring great people.) The point of this article (and David’s book) is that the way you communicate matters, from your body language to the word choices you make. You can make people feel like a valued team member or an unimportant cog depending on how you speak to them. Remember that the next time you are giving someone a bit of a crap job to do. To talk to a member of the OpenCRM team about how CRM software can benefit your brand, call 01748 473000 or visit the website: www.opencrm.co.uk Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems.

March/April 2019

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INTERNATIONALTRADE

CLARITY & DIRECTION The reality of leaving the European Union looms ever near. Understandably, many businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire are exasperated by the uncertainty, the debates and indecision.

CLARITY

DIRECTION

Take some control back and be prepared. BREXIT Planning: Reviewing the Supply Chain is a unique bridging course offered by H&W Chamber's International Trade Services. Enable a positive changeover for your business, analyse key areas of customs and export compliance, assess your own business and understand key challenges and opportunities.

A keynote speaker at H&W Chamber of Commerce Expo, Thursday 7 March, will be Jon Walden MBE, a Principal Consultant in Customs and Trade Facilitation from Strong & Herd LLP. Jon will be speaking about “Beyond Brexit, a world of new opportunities”.

From the four courses that have already been delivered, attendees have subsequently recommended the course to their colleagues, with delegates now attending from head offices based in London. We are delighted with the positive feedback and referrals, and want to ensure as many local businesses can reap the benefits of attending the course. To that end we have added additional dates: 8 March, 17 May, 19 July and 20 September.

He will also be with us on our International Trade Services’ stand. So please come along and talk to Jon and the International Trade Services Team. This is an excellent opportunity for you to learn more of the comprehensive and specialist services that we offer.

Email: internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES Embrace them! In April we launch the International Trade Training calendar, download it from our website, for all import and export courses. Take some time to read through and plan, whether to reinforce, learn or update your own knowledge, or progress and support key members of your team whose daily work involves import and export processes. Never has it been so important to dot the i's and cross the t's. Each course is up-to-the-moment, covering changes in regulations and procedures. Consider new operations and approaches to ease the negotiations and transactions, such as Letters of Credit and Direct Shipping. Another reason for you to visit us at our International Trade Service's Expo stand and collect an International Trade Training booklet showing descriptions and dates of courses.

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March/April 2019

INTERNATIONALTRADE

HOW TO COMPLETE EXPORT CUSTOMS ENTRIES Friday 1 March 2019 a full day course

BEGINNERS GUIDE TO IMPORTS

EXPORT DEVELOPMENT 22 May 2019, 23 October 2019, 26 February 2020 Reaching new markets. Businesses that are new to exporting as well as seasoned exporters who are seeking growth through entering new markets will benefit from the skills and understanding that this seminar brings.

This is a unique course offered by Strong & Herd LLP. Completing and obtaining correct export customs entry declarations is an important task and it is essential that both the freight company (intermediaries) and the exporting businesses are aware of the information required to complete a legal declaration.

18 July 9.30am - 12.00pm

Members £280 and Non-members £350 +VAT including a buffet lunch

Two 1/2 day courses: Members £100.00 Non-members £125.00

EXPORT DISTRIBUTION & SALES CHANNELS

These brand new courses are written for anyone who has no prior knowledge of exporting or importing. It will take delegates through the basic principles and briefly explains the most common practices and terminology, facilitating understanding through practical exercises and presentations.

Using the above self-knowledge to identify key success factors in potential markets

The courses offer a great starting point, which can be followed up by Basic IMPORT Documentation & Basic EXPORT Documentation.

Producing an export development plan

21 May 2019, 22 October 2019 & 25 February 2020 This course addresses the crucial and challenging issues of finding, selecting and building a successful working relationship with agents and distributors. The course material covers:

BEGINNERS GUIDE TO EXPORTS 18 July 1.00 - 4.30pm

Key elements include: Identifying key strengths and weaknesses in the business and products/services

Desk research techniques and how to evaluate, compare and prioritise opportunities Knowledge of the most valuable sources of information Real world case studies

The courses will cover: What is an Import/Export Documentation, minimum requirements and responsibilities

PRICING FOR EXPORT

Transportation options, costs and insurance responsibilities

23 May 2019, 24 October 2019, 27 February 2020

Negotiating the deal

UK Customs special procedures , requirements and valuations

The importance of a formal contract, and what it should cover

Tariff Classifications

The course is intended to equip participants with a mix of technical and marketing skills in order to evaluate market opportunities, and make informed pricing decisions to maximise sales and business profitability. Key elements are:

Ways of reaching the end user. What’s best for your business? Finding potential representatives Selecting the right candidate – identifying the killer criteria

Building the relationship – the first ninety days Leadership and Motivation – meeting the challenge of managing agents and distributors

EU vs. the rest of the world differences in the supply chain Getting paid, the different ways businesses get paid for their goods.

Training courses are full day, unless otherwise indicated, run from 9:30 to 16:30 and include a buffet lunch. To receive our e-newsletter with course updates and services Email: internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk Visit: hwchamber.co.uk/international-trade

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Understanding how to calculate product costs Understanding how to calculate the costs of physically exporting a product (including for example, essential product and packaging modifications) Why “route to market” strategy is important in setting prices (for example when working with agents or distributors) Overview of marketing strategy techniques Examples of strategic pricing and circumstances in which they are effective

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NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH ALVECHURCH

HAY-ON-WYE

PERSHORE

Eureka! Research Ltd

Hay Festival of Literature & the Arts Ltd

Milford Research & Consultancy Ltd

Festival www.hayfestival.com

Constructive Methodology for Project Training & Delivery www.milfordresearch.uk

0121 6795465

Specialist Market Research (Building & Plumbing) www.eurekaresearch.co.uk

01497 822620

BEWDLEY

HEREFORD

Azure Digital Marketing

Broadshoulders Ltd

07793 556484

Digital Marketing & Social Media Marketing www.azuredm.co.uk

Lazercote Ltd

01299 212172 Construction & Property Maintenance

07980 558178

Education Business Solutions www.broadshoulders.co.uk

SME Finance Directors Ltd

0800 3047802

Business Consultancy, Strategy & Tax Solutions www.smefinancedirectors.co.uk

BROMSGROVE Electro-Comm Digital Services Ltd

01905 788020

IT Support www.electro-comm.co.uk

MDC Associates

0121 4536429 Insurance Company www.mdcinsurance.co.uk

CLIFTON-ON-TEME JHD Solutions Ltd

01886 812421

Housing Developers www.jhdsolutions.co.uk

DROITWICH Nomeq Ltd

01905 795005 Sales, Service, Calibration Checks & Repairs of Medical Devices www.nomeq.co.uk

Raymond James Investment Services Ltd

01905 885370

Wealth Management www.raymondjames.uk.com

The Droitwich Sign & Print Co.

01905 795644 Print & Signage www.dsandp.co.uk

Wychbold Fudge

07841 717779

Food Producer www.wychboldfudge.com

EVESHAM

LEDBURY emotion-i

07766 225784 Executive/Leadership Coaching www.emotion-i.co.uk

LEOMINSTER AGRI-HR LTD

07484 207424 HR (Agricultural) www.agri-hr.co.uk

07452 974818

REDDITCH Nash Business Systems Ltd

01527 912476

Software Development www.nashbusinesssytems.co.uk

Nic Services Group Ltd TA Procare Facilities

01905 402331

Cleaning - Commercial www.nicgroup.co.uk

Solid State Supplies Ltd

01527 830800

Distributer of Electronic Components www.sssplc.com

STOURPORT Slicker Recycling Ltd

03301 598325

Management Solutions (Waste) www.slickerrecycling.com

Eureka Financial Solutions

01299 821160

MALVERN ADDH Consulting Limited

07769 653035

Business Services, Management Consultancy & Recruitment www.addhconsulting.com

D-SIG LTD

07958 673660 Cyber Security www.d-sig.co.uk

No Worries PA Solutions

07376 851572

Personal Assistant with bespoke niche abilities www.noworriespasolutions.co.uk

Pippa's Guardians Ltd

01684 252757

Advice service for overseas parents looking to place children into British boarding schools www.pippasguardians.co.uk

WLS Solicitors

01684 216777 Solicitors www.wlssolicitors.co.uk

Financial Solutions www.eurekafs.co.uk

WORCESTER Alpaca Wool Sensation

07973 102008

Hand Made Alpaca Wool Products

Chucks Away Ltd

07702700729

Commercial Cleaning & De-Cluttering www.chucksaway.co.uk

CS Protection Brokers

01905 349799

Life Insurance www.csprotectionbrokers.co.uk

Drive Taxi App Ltd

01905 723888

Taxi & Private Hire www.drivetaxiapp.com

Exsel Design & Integration Limited

01684 579000

Engineering Design & Manufacturing www.exsel-group.com

AGM Event and Travel Solutions Limited

MIDDLE LITTLETON

Guardian Roofs-Direct UK Limited

Venue Finding & Event Management www.agmeventsolutions.co.uk

Eleonora House Cleaning Services

Mulberry Distillery Ltd

Cleaning Services www.eleonorasclean.co.uk

Conservatory, Tiled Roof Replacements & New Builds www.guardianwarmroofuk.co.uk

01386 572261

07788 570274

07842 679665

01905 695393

Gin School & Small Batch Mulberry Gin

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March/April 2019

NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH Joshua Robert Recruitment Ltd

Neva Consultants (West Midlands)

The Churches Conservation Trust

Niche Recruitment in the Specialised Field of Chartered Property Specialists www.joshuarobert.co.uk

Vehicle Fleet Management & Leasing www.neva-consultants.com

Trust www.visitchurches.org.uk

Phoneworcs Ltd

Thursfields

Telecomms www.phoneworcs.com

Solicitors www.thursfields.co.uk

01905 691040

Magrak Ltd

01886 888699 Storage Bins www.magrak.co.uk

Middlebrook Media

01386 800250

Video Production & Media Partner www.middlebrookmedia.co.uk

01684 573291

07738 081021

07469 857074

01905 730450

Renata Clarke Photography

07508 606077

Stylised Portrait Photography, Weddings & Fashion www.renataclarkephotography.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Kinetic Six provide innovative communications and security technology solutions to help protect the most critically endangered species across the world.

Award winning Support Bridge, Communications and Networks Support. 2018 saw the launch of our remote monitoring Bridge, based in Hereford. From here we monitor our different communication infrastructures around the world. This is a first in conservation where communication networks are being constantly monitored in a way that alleviates the pressure on the local project management team. Kenyan support bridge and local team go live early 2019. Next level support for our clients, Forward Operation Bridge Support Engineering Team, FOBSET

The airspace security industry is growing rapidly, and laws involving the safe integration of drones to national airspace are slow to catch up. As more drone incidents and airspace intrusions are occurring, organisations protecting high-risk and high-value infrastructure must be proactive and protect their airspace from drone threats Just as there are many positive applications for drones, they can also present a significant threat, including through espionage, spying, warfare, and most recently unfolding, data centre hacking. Kinetic Six has been working throughout 2018 to prepare for this growing threat and 2019 will see large deployments across the UK, support management and growth in this market. We only partner with the best technologies; with the Dedrone solution we will extend our operations throughout the communication spectrum to deliver first class technology and security assurance to all of our clients.

2019 - Patriot One Readiness preparation for the launch of Patriot One in the UK, with their complete suite of products and services that will be managed by the Kinetic Six team from offices in Hereford and London. The launch is set to take place in an iconic sports stadium with all our products on show. 2019 is going to be incredibly exciting, changing the dynamics of security in the world forever. We are always looking for new projects and technologies so if you think you could get involved, get in touch!Â For more information email info@kinetic6.co.uk, or visit www.kinetic6.co.uk follow us on social mediaÂ : Twitter - @KineticSixLtd Facebook - Kinetic Six Instagram - kinetic_six

MEMBERSSERVICES

ARTWORK CREATIVE

KINDER POCOCK Kinder Pocock is a tech-savvy cloud accountancy firm in Herefordshire with a focus on extraordinary client care. They are 100% Xero accountants, and are known to be Xero specialists, as one of the first accountants in the county to embrace Xero, beautiful online accounting software, seven years ago. They embrace Xero’s app eco-system and get a buzz out of using apps to help you to run your business more efficiently, freeing you up to do more of what you love, whatever that may be. Get in touch to find out how they can help you fall in love with your business again. www.kinderpocock.co.uk

Artwork Creative is a graphic design agency based in Colwall with a London Office with over 30 years experience.

DON’T TRUST WORDS. TRUST PICTURES. Renata Clarke is an emerging fashion and portrait photographer based in Worcester who also loves capturing fashion inspired wedding images. Her passion started about 15 years ago but for many years it was just limited to happy snaps of family, friends and places she visited. Everything shifted last summer when she got invited to a charity fashion show and discovered different side of photography. That day she decided to follow her heart and put all her efforts in turning this passion into a living. Since then she has attended several fashion events and organized several editorial photoshoots which have been published in fashion magazines. Renata is now launching her photography business. She’s especially drawn to the world of beauty and fashion but at the same time to the portraying real people and real moments. She wants to use these skills to help out local businesses with building or expanding their brand. Her favourite photography quote is by Adam Ansel: “You don’t take a photograph, you make it.” www.renataclarkephotography.com

The UKF Group have been providing high-quality service to the UK and European Manufacturing Industries for over 25 years.

With a predicted annual turnover of £30m, the Group prides itself on its professionalism at both operational

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They are proud to have clients based all over the world, and have enjoyed working with Coca-Cola and Tyrrells crisps, as well as the privilege of branding an island in the Falklands www.weddellisland. com being particularly proud of the imagery. Visits are welcome from existing and prospective clients at either office the kettle is always on and creative minds are continually ticking! Artwork Creative like to consider that working with them is a piece of cake whether you require advertising, animation, branding, brochures, exhibitions, illustrations, marketing, newspapers, packaging or websites. www.artwork-creative.com

CS PROTECTION BROKERS CS Protection Brokers are a family run life insurance brokerage based in Worcester helping individuals and businesses with their protection needs locally and nationally.

THE UKF GROUP

`Since starting out in 1992, the Group’s portfolio currently consists of: UKF Stainless Ltd, The Joint Perforating Company Ltd, Ferrari Stainless & Alloys Ltd and Stainless Metals & Alloys Ltd. Through these brands, the Group stocks and processes stainless steel and aluminium for a range of markets, including the air condition (HVAC), automotive, engineering and pharmaceutical industries.

Trading since 1986, they work with a portfolio of clients from sole traders to AIM quoted Plc’s, and everything in between.

With plenty of experience in insurance, marketing, customer services and business development, one of their core principles is the importance of their role in the local community. and management level, which is upheld by working to ISO 9001:2015 standards. In addition, the stainless steel stockholders have continuously invested in their workforce and facilities, including a state-of-the-art tube laser cutter, as well as new cold-bending and end-forming machinery.

2019 is THE year they will be working to build greater local business relationships within Herefordshire and Worcestershire, adding further value to the network of great companies in the counties. www.csprotectionbrokers.co.uk

www.ukf-group.com

March/April 2019

CHARITYNEWS

MATCON SUPPORTS EVESHAM VALE COMMUNITY CHARITY Evesham-based Powder Handling experts Matcon have been working closely with Evesham Adventure Playground Association, a local charity set-up to ensure children, young people and families have space to have fun together in an environment that challenges and inspires the mind and body. Matcon employees have volunteered 120 hours preparing and serving over 3000 hot meals during the school holidays and raised nearly £2,000 via fundraising events including a Bake-Off

competition and Static Bike Challenge. A substantial donation of £20,000 from the IDEX Foundation, a charitable giving organization part of IDEX Corporation who acquired Matcon in 2012, further supported the charity. These donations will allow them to extend their current playground space, fund new fencing and install specialist pieces of play equipment for sensory learning and stimulation. The purchase of an electric panel van to collect surplus produce from local supermarkets will further benefit

MALVERN HILLS CHARITY MEANS BUSINESS

NEW VILLAGE HAVENEERS PROJECT FOR HEREFORD CHARITY Breast Cancer Haven Hereford has begun its first initiative of 2019 and launched its Village Haveneers voluntary project. As an extension of the fundraising office, Breast Cancer Haven are on the hunt for enthusiastic volunteers to distribute collection tins, bra banks and event posters in their own towns and villages. We have already recruited Ross On Wye Haveneer Jenny Baldwin (pictured) who will be introducing herself to local shops, restaurants and bar owners to place a collection box on their premises, plus researching large businesses with a good footfall of employees that could support us by having a bra bank allocated on their site.

Chamber Member Heartstart Malvern has just celebrated its second birthday. At the recent AGM, the micro-charity proudly announced that it has provided free training to over 2300 people in resuscitation skills and installed 18 defibrillators in the locality. Despite amazing progress over a short time frame there remain obvious target audiences that the charity feels have not been well represented to date. A priority for 2019 is therefore to engage further with the business community – offering in-house training and to increase the availability of Public Access Defibrillators in workplaces. Heartstart Malvern Chairman Richard Vakis-Lowe said: “We are keen to talk to businesses in the Malvern Hills and surrounding area about how our charity supports their business objectives. Our training team have delivered training in small pubs and restaurants as well as large factory units. We can tie in to CSR policies and promote community involvement. Now that we are a Chamber member there is no excuse not to contact us.” www.heartstartmalvern.org.uk

A bra bank is a collection point for old and unwanted bras that is collected by BTR a recycle company in Bristol and exchanged for cash to go towards vital services offered at the charity. If you are a local business or a volunteer that would like to support the project, please get in touch with Julie Nicholas, Corporate Fundraiser, on julie.nicholas@ breastcancerhaven.org.uk or 01432 361058.

the community pantry and support their efforts to reduce the carbon footprint and Be Green! www.matconibc.com

LOCAL BUSINESSES PULL TOGETHER TO SUPPORT CHARITY MASQUERADE BALL The Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust is a local Worcestershire childhood cancer charity that works to fund research into children's cancers. Since Grace passed away, 2080 children and young people have passed away from cancer in the UK alone, which is the equivalent of 8 average primary schools full of children. It is the number one medical cause of death of children in the UK. The charity is so proud of the local Herefordshire and Worcestershire businesses, many of which are Chamber Members, who are supporting us with our Masquerade Ball taking place on Saturday 23 March at the Chateau Impney. The likes of SouthCo, TAD Electronics, Nicol and Co, Worcester Bosh, drpg, GTech, Croome Cuisines, Truth Company, Clover HR are to name but a few businesses that are helping us fight the fight of childhood cancer. We would like to say thank you to each of you who are supporting us. If you would like to know more, or to get involved with the Masquerade ball, please contact michellenolan@gkcct.org www.gracekellyladybird.co.uk

www.thehaven.org.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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March/April 2019

MEMBERSSERVICES

GROWTH FORUM

SIX MONTHS OF SUCCESS FOR BETADEN

In association with EBC Group The Growth Forum is aimed at owners, directors and senior managers of high growth businesses. Established to provide a platform to share best practice and practical advice on a range of topics including; innovation, export, skills and access to funding and help overcome barriers to growth. The forum includes presentations from a range of inspiring experts who will share their knowledge and guidance for implementing growth strategies helping companies develop their competitive edge. The forum covers a range of topics identified by businesses to be critical to their current and future success and covers a range of business functions including Finance, Sales, Marketing and IT.

DRIVING GROWTH FOR SMES Designed for SMEs with potential and aspirations to grow

Support with overcoming barriers to growth

Practical advice on innovation, export, skills and access to funding

Inspiring experts sharing knowledge and best practice

Practical guidance for implementing growth strategies

Helping companies develop their competitive edge

Our speakers are selected from a wide variety of businesses in the two counties and beyond. Our upcoming events include:

SALES & MARKETING GROWTH FORUM Thursday 21 March 8.30-11.00am DRPG, Studio 212 Ikon Estate, Droitwich Road, Hartlebury DY10 4EU Delegates will learn about the 5 Voices and the sales and marketing techniques that DRPG employ.

TECHNOLOGY GROWTH FORUM Thursday 16 May 8.30-11.00am EBC Suite, Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ In collaboration with EBC Group, WCCC are offering a free to attend day of cricket which starts at 11.00am.

FINANCIAL GROWTH FORUM Thursday 21 November 8.30-11.00am TBC

Launched on Tuesday 2 October 2018, BetaDen is home to Worcestershire’s first Tech Accelerator, dedicated to growing the entrepreneurs and emerging technology community within the county. The first cohort consists of the following businesses: Worcester Scientific, (a start-up Nano-sensor technology), Titania, (working on next generation of cyber security), Sidaway Technologies, (machine learning and digital technology), GBR14, (a cyber security start up working with encryption), Shedeo, (a gaming and AI production company and Syndial, (next generation blockchain technology.) The first phase of BetaDen has been highly successful, providing the entrepreneurs in residence with subject specialists and mentorship from technology mentors. Phase 2 and the coming months will see the cohort develop their proof of concept models and benefit from BetaDen’s offer of a fully funded POC grant of up to £15,000. The BetaDen team will be working hard with the entrepreneurs in residence this spring, gearing up to finish the first cohort with a showcase event in early May. Many of the cohorts have also had additional success over the past six months. The Worcester Scientific team were shortlisted in ‘The Engineer, Collaborate to Innovate’ awards, going head to head with well establish companies from around the country. Luke Hopkins (Shedeo) also found success with his music and production ‘Do you remember’ being featured on popular American Podcast ‘Jonah Raydio.’ From the end of February, BetaDen will be actively seeking applications from those interested in applying for Cohort 2. To find out more on the next cohort or any more of BetaDen’s wider ecosystem activities please contact the team on 01905 672700. www.Beta-Den.com

HEREFORD GROWTH FORUM Thursday 24 October TBC Email HayleyG@hwchamber.co.uk to secure your place now.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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LASTWORD

Q&A WITH POOLBROOK CAFE Business Direction caught up with Alison Pearson, Owner of Malvern Buffets and Poolbrook Cafe, to find out more about the growing business. HOW DID YOUR BUSINESS START? “I have had a passion for cooking from an early age, cooking my first three-course meal for my parents' 15th Wedding Anniversary when I was 12 years old. “My Mum taught me loads, and when I left school I went to one of the top catering colleges in the country, and spent a number of years in the industry working in top London and Cotswold hotels. “In 2011 I had the chance to take over a cafe which was popular with locals including people who worked in the area. This resulted in being asked to cater for business meetings and private events and so, Malvern Buffets was born. “In 2013 my son, Jake, joined me as an apprentice and completed his City & Guilds, Level 2 in General Catering and Level 3 in Patisserie.”

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO WORK IN A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS? “It’s great working with my son, who has a passion for baking sourdough bread which we can use in the cafe and sell the excess to the public. People often comment that they are amazed at how well we get on considering we work together and he still lives at home!

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“There is an awful lot to do after the closed sign goes up and as a fairly young business; I still do everything from the bookkeeping to social media and marketing activities, as well as the invoicing and banking etc.”

WHAT LED YOU TO INTRODUCING A MORE INCLUSIVE RANGE OF MENUS? “I have always been keen to try new recipes. With more and more families having a mix of dietary preferences and requirements, I wanted to offer more than just a jacket potato with beans to those who do not eat meat, dairy, gluten etc.”

ARE FOOD TRENDS CHANGING IN THE COUNTY? “There are definitely more requests for plant-based milks, food, cakes and etc., but there are still the hardcore who want nothing more than a traditional Full English Breakfast!”

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE FOOD AND DRINK INDUSTRY IN THE COUNTY? “I think we have some amazing small food and drink producers in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and if we don’t make something ourselves then

we all try to use other local producers whenever possible. “Some of us are concerned with Brexit on the horizon, and the potential rise in costs for base ingredients that we import could have a knock on effect with the pricing of home grown or produced foods. “Since the referendum we have already seen a 70% increase in the price of butter that is produced in this country. But, only time will tell!”

I think we have some amazing small food and drink producers in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and if we don’t make something ourselves then we all try to use other local producers whenever possible.

March/April 2019

A family of schools each of which has its origins in Malvern College Malvern College Hong Kong

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enquiries@malverncollege.org.uk â&#x20AC;˘ www.malverncollegeinternational.org

wcg.ac.uk/employers

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Delivering the new Engineering Standards Excellent reputation and success rates 16.9% above national achievement rate

Currently training

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Contact our work based learning team to discuss your needs:

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