Business Direction 68 by Distinctive Media Group Ltd

Business Direction

BUSINESS GROWTH Issue 68 July/August 2022

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FIRSTWORD

BUSINESS GROWTH

ction Business Dire

As we move from a period of recovery into growth, businesses can expect to see great challenge with even greater reward in 2022. While businesses faced unprecedented challenge through the pandemic, cautious optimism, and an opportunity to grow carries the businesses of Herefordshire and Worcestershire forward. This is an equally daunting, yet exciting time for local enterprise. OWTH BUSINESS GR Issue 68 May/June 2022

BUSINESS DIRECTION Business Direction, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s full colour bi-monthly publication. Designed and produced by business people for business people, with a total readership of over 10,500. Please send all submissions to marketing@hwchamber.co.uk

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EDITORIAL & SUBSCRIPTIONS

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FEATURES EDITOR

Karen Southern karen.southern@distinctivegroup.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.

First Word

Chamber News

Chair’s Report

Business News

Policy News

Business News

For every business, growth is measured differently and as companies across the area continue to adapt to new ways of working, it is important that businesses consider what their growth may look like during this year. While the Chamber Business Manifesto reported that businesses are finding it more challenging to predict improvements in profitability for 2022, there is optimism in the areas that can be controlled.

Business News

Events

Opportunities to try new approaches, measure new areas of growth, and test out new markets arise from the adapted ways of working that are being integrating into day-to-day operations.

Two Counties

Movers and Shakers

New Members

As a Chamber, we have been excited to welcome new Members to our community and have been supporting them in their business growth through a number of tangible activities.

Business News

Charity News

We look forward to the ongoing re-launch of the Growth Forum, and our ever-popular Business Expo on Thursday 13 October providing businesses of all sizes the opportunity to grow their networks and profile within the community. Promoting and supporting business growth is a key focus of the Chamber and as such, I am delighted to introduce you to the latest edition of Business Direction. This issue is packed full of industry news and insights from across the two counties.

Chamber Training

24-25

Big Interview

26-27

Cover Feature

28-29

International Trade

40-41

People to do Business With

Business News

Worcestershire Works Well

Member Benefits

Last Word

With a focus on ‘Business Growth’, this edition looks at areas such as salary, corporate-social responsibility and the use of communications and digital media to inspire business growth, as well as celebrating the exciting news of our Members across the region. Our cover interviews for this edition celebrate awards for DRPG. Trueline Products and M-Studios discuss the importance of creating a talented workforce and how to make your business stand out from the crowd!

26-27

Best regards, Sharon Smith Chief Executive of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Our Patrons are:

July/August 2022

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBERNEWS

CHAMBER LAUNCHES NEW MEMBERS FEEDBACK ROUNDTABLE EVENTS Introducing the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Members Feedback Roundtable events.

INTRODUCING THE ‘MEMBER 2 MEMBER’ REFERRAL SCHEME The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are excited to launch our new and updated Member 2 Member referral scheme! Know an organisation that you think could benefit from Chamber Membership?

The good, the bad and the ugly, we want to know how you feel about your Chamber Membership and what we can do to improve your experience. We’re inviting Members to attend our new Roundtable events, alongside a selection of our Directors and Managers, to feedback on what’s working for your Membership and what’s not. So, whether you have a good news story you’d like to share or a concern that you think needs attention from senior staff, we would love to hear from you to help better our service. The next Members Feedback Roundtable is taking place on Thursday 28 July and will be hosted at NMiTE, Herefordshire. This event is free for Members to attend and has a maximum capacity of 12

attendees, given on a first come first served basis. Take this opportunity to have your voice heard and work with us to improve your Membership experience and enhance the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce offering. To book onto the next Members Feedback Roundtable please email events@hwchamber. co.uk, or to find out more information please call our team on 01905 673600.

THE CHAMBER’S HEREFORD DROP-IN DAYS ARE BACK!

Introducing our Member 2 Member referral scheme, an initiative that encourages Members to refer Non-member organisations to the Chamber. In exchange for 10 successful referrals, you could receive 100% off your renewal fee*. To find out more about this new scheme, speak to your account manager. *Terms & Conditions apply: subject to businesses joining Chamber Membership upon referral. Each successful referral equates to 10%. Exlusions apply for Patron and Strategic Members. To submit a referral, complete the ‘Member 2 Member Referral’ form in the Members Area on our website, or submit the following details to membership@hwchamber.co.uk: Your name Your company name Name of the company you wish ----to refer Contact name Contact email address and/or ----phone number If you would like to know more about our unlimited Member 2 Member referral scheme, please get in contact with your account manager.

On the first Wednesday of every month our Herefordshire Membership team will be hosting a drop in event at our Hereford offices in The Shell Store. Our drop-in days give Members the opportunity to discuss business growth, engagement, successes and struggles with their account managers, exploring new ways to best utilise Chamber Membership. This event is also a great way for Non-members to meet our Herefordshire team in an informal setting and allows local businesses to ask questions and share ideas. In the beginning of July, we held our first Ask the Expert session, where Michelle Collins, NatWest Local

Enterprise Manager (Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire) joined our drop-in day and attendees had the opportunity to ask questions about the NatWest Business Builder and finances. We’ll be holding more Ask the Expert sessions at our drop-in day, so keep your eyes peeled for more details! Our Hereford Drop-In Days will be taking place on the first Wednesday of every month, 10:00am-12:00pm, at The Shell Store Hereford. To book your place or to express your interest, please email bethi@ hwchamber.co.uk.

July/August 2022

CHAIR’SREPORT

MIKE FORRESTER: CHAIR’S REPORT

Mike Forrester, Chair

As part of my more formal role, I work with our Chief Executive on setting goals and targets and had the pleasure of signing off on her 2021/22 successful appraisal. At the same time making sure that this coming financial year’s objectives are aligned to the business plan and with several KPI’s relating to keeping the business fresh and relevant to its members and wider stakeholders. This year I have brought in some measures to build sustainability actions into the business model. More details to follow in the coming months. I also had the pleasure of visiting Becca and Josh Guest from Guest Homes Ltd. They have been a Chamber member for 3 years and recently decided to flex their membership by making the most of its benefits. Having exhibited at the business Expo in March, Josh and Becca have now committed to maximising their membership by attending regular networking, booking their stand at the next Expo in November and appointing a PR agency to raise their profile locally. Learn more about my visit and how Josh and Becca are working towards the expansion of their lettings business by focusing on building their portfolio with corporate lets and longer term leases in my recent posts on LinkedIn. I’m available to support every member and welcome the opportunity to meet up. Connect with me at many of the upcoming Chamber events. For more information about the full events and

training calendar, please go to: ------hwchamber.co.uk/events-and-trainingcalendar. As you can never stop learning, I enrolled on the Chamber’s Leadership Development Programme delivered by Lucy Barkas of 3WH. Now in its 4th year of running, the first module was attended by around 50 delegates at the Bank House in late March. My agenda here is to observe and interact with millennials and Gen Z. By 2030 80% of our workforce and customers will fall into these two generations. Appreciating how they communicate with each other, and colleagues, is an important skill we older managers and leaders should work on. I undertook an afternoon of judging for the Chamber Awards too. It’s always inspiring to talk to some of the wonderful businesses we have in the two counties and their journey so far. One of my personal social highlights

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

over the last two months was attending the recent Patron and Strategic Business Leaders Dinner and hosting Tessa Sanderson CBE, you might have seen my LinkedIn post. Take a look at all my posts here: www.linkedin.com/in/mike-forrester. To finish off, I was at the Food and Drink Forum at Weston’s Cider on May 21st. A great story with significant growth achieved and huge new business forecasted over the next two years. With investment to support the increased activity. With a presentation by another of our fledgling start-ups ‘Veg Life’. Learn more here: www.veglifeeats.com. There’s lots of Chamber activity to look forward to in the coming months and I will be reporting back again soon. In the meantime, please reach out to me directly if you think I can help you and your business, Mike. 05

BUSINESSNEWS

DELIVERING BUSINESS GROWTH THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL & GOVERNANCE FACTORS Business growth has historically been driven from a focus on financial factors such as stable revenues, high margins, and market share. Here at Bishop Fleming, we have actively observed the correlation between business growth and companies who consider non-financial factors such as Environmental, Social & Governance factors (ESG) in their business strategy. This is because investors and other stakeholders value companies that actively make decisions to monitor their impact and who make changes to their policies and practices to address the findings. Through meeting high ESG standards and having accountability, businesses can achieve ESG accreditations such as B Corp and SEDEX certification. Communicating these certifications to stakeholders increases value through motivated employees, increased customer loyalty,

Marcus Williams, Executive, Bishop Fleming

higher levels of innovation, and market leadership. A focus on ESG factors can include a review of how a business impacts its local society in terms of meeting the needs of workers, communities and supporting other local businesses to create shared value. It can also include a review of their supply chain to ensure a focus on sustainability through understanding the environmental impact of procurement. mwilliams2@bishopfleming.co.uk 01905 732116

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS FOR YOUR BUSINESS In today’s digital world, businesses widely understand the necessity of a strong social media presence. However, with what feels like an endless choice of social media platforms, it’s a challenge to understand which ones your business should focus on. Yet the choice can be very simple. Only focus on the platforms where your audience are. If your audience mostly use LinkedIn, focus on building a following there. If your audience mostly engage with educational video content, start creating your own.

There’s no point spending valuable time and resources creating videos for TikTok just because it’s a popular platform. Overall: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok can work wonders for a B2C e-commerce business while LinkedIn can be perfect for B2B. It’s important that you focus on the right platforms for your business, making sure that the platforms you use will have the biggest impact on business growth and provide the best ROI.

2022 IS THE RIGHT TIME TO GAIN EXPERT ADVICE With cost of living on the increase, including a rapid rise in gas prices and a rental price jump, now is the right time to look at cost savings and gain expert advice. Jake Mountford, Director at Hazelton Mountford, explains: “Hazelton Mountford have secured more business in various sectors due to a thorough review, making client cost-savings and, in some cases, increased cover. For the same, sometimes less, cost.” More recently Hazelton Mountford acquired a new client after conducting a full review and re-market of their portfolio of insurances, which hadn’t been done by their current broker in the previous year. Our work and recommendations resulted in them saving over £40,000 (around 35%) on their premiums from the previous year. We were able to identify areas of duplication of cover as well as ways to run their insurances more economically. Asking a professional broker like Hazelton Mountford to look at your specific needs can help you gain the safety and security you require when it comes to insurance cover. Hazelton Mountford are the only Independent Chartered Insurance Brokers in Worcester, and it sets them apart from the other brokers and companies within the area. The Chartered status means that they demonstrate a high level of expertise throughout every level of their business. Jake continues “With our experience and due diligence, we can offer the right cover at the right price. Now is a great time to review your insurance cover so, when it’s up for renewal, please make a call to the team and see if we can make cost-savings for you too.” Call 01905 611951 to chat about your review now. www.hazeltonmountford.co.uk

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July/August 2022

For you and your business SMES MUST BE CLEAR ON HOW THEY TREAT DIFFERENT CLASSES OF SHARES We work with many small and medium-sized companies that are owner managed, and often see various owners spending differing amounts of time in the day-to-day running of the business. We also often see senior employees at SMEs incentivised with shares so that they can receive dividends that are linked to their contribution to the company’s success. These arrangements mean that the shares held by an SME’s various shareholders are split into what are described as ‘alphabet’ shares. This means you have A shares, B shares, C shares, and so on, where dividend amounts are varied between these shares to reflect varying contributions made by the shareholders. For example, the A shareholder may be an investor shareholder and not work in the company, and so would receive a basic dividend each year. In contrast, the B Shareholder may be a major shareholder who also works full-time, and so would receive a larger dividend per share. And then the C shareholder may be a minority employee shareholder who will receive varying dividends based on their performance each year. In each case the dividends are proposed by the SME’s board of directors using their discretion and the shares are treated as different classes of shares. However, this treatment of the A, B and C shares as

different classes may not be correct and, if that is the case, it leaves the dividend payments open to challenge.

Fiona Boxwell

Quite often, we have seen that the only description of the rights attaching to the varying shares are those detailed in the statements of capital lodged at Companies House. In many cases, these make no mention of differing shares in the Articles of Association. What this means is that even though each of the A, B and C shares are described as though they are separate classes, the rights each has will be stated as identical in each case. Therefore, each of the A, B and C shareholders will be described as having a right to attend and vote at company meetings, a right to participate in dividends and a right to participate on a winding up or return of capital. In such cases, if the Articles of Association of the company fails to state more explicitly that each of the A, B and C shares constitute separate classes which differ for the purposes of dividends, companies could be challenged over their dividend payments. This is because the much overlooked section 629(1) of the Companies Act 2006 provides that shares are of one class if the rights attached to them are in all respects uniform. This means that the A, B and C shares are not different classes of shares but merely differing name designations within the same class of shares. Crucially, this would technically mean that

A, B and C shares should have identical dividends paid on them, which took place in the recent Routledge v Skerritt (2019) case. This potential banana skin could have serious and costly consequences for any SME. But fear not: such disasters can be easily avoided by ensuring appropriate provisions are included within the Articles of Association of the company and by having a properly adopted dividend policy. Fiona Boxwell Associate Director, Corporate Law Team info@thursfields.co.uk 0345 20 73 72 8

TECHADVICE

How to protect your business against zero-day cyber attacks Did you know that 4 malware attacks happen every minute in the UK and out of these, a huge 96% of them are zero-day attacks? Let’s take a look at the steps you can take to help protect your business.

What is a zero-day threat?

A zero-day threat is a malware threat that hasn’t been seen before and doesn’t match any known malware signatures which means that it can’t be detected by traditional cyber security software. This threat might exploit an unknown software vulnerability.

A zero-day exploit is when hackers take advantage of a zero-day vulnerability to carry out a cyber attack. When a zero-day attack is detected, it must be mitigated as quickly as possible as software developers have no patch to fix it.

Why you should be concerned about zero-day threats? Cyber attacks are becoming more and more prevalent and new zero-day threats are originating at an alarming rate. In order to protect your network, applications and data, it is vital to have an advanced threat prevention system in place.

How can you protect your business against zero-day attacks? Although the nature of zero-day malware threats mean that we cannot see them coming, there are still various ways you can help to protect your business.

Keep your software up to date to ensure that security patches are inplace and reduce the risk of malware infection Use a firewall to monitor and block suspicious activity Use an antivirus software to protect you against known and unknown threats Ensure your team is educated on zero-day threats and seek out solutions when zero-day vulnerabilities are discovered Limit the amount of applications you use, as the less you download, the less data you are putting at risk

Advanced Security Protection In today’s climate, a basic firewall is no longer enough to protect your business against cyber security threats; you need a full set of scanning engines to safeguard your network against viruses, spyware, malicious apps and data leaks.

What should your security protection include? Cloud Sandboxing: Organisations of all sizes are falling victim to sophisticated cyber attacks. Cloud sandboxes simulate physical hardware, exposing malware which is designed to recognise and evade traditional network security defenses.

AI-Powered Anti-Malware: Signature-based anti-virus solutions are only able to detect known threats, whereas AI-powered anti-malware uses a machine-learning engine which can predict threats. As modern malware mutates at an incredible rate, human produced signature-based virus detection is rapidly becoming obsolete. DNS Filtering: Hackers rely on DNS to carry out cyber attacks. DNS filtering detects and blocks potentially dangerous sites, protecting your network and team from damaging malware infections. Cloud-based DNS filtering services are efficient and save your business time and money. Network and Endpoint Threat Correlation: In order to manage security across your organisation, it is extremely important to have visibility into your network and endpoint event data. Threat correlation allows your IT team to respond to threats quickly and confidently, ensuring that you stop malware attacks before they have time to infect your entire organisation

How can EBC Group help? EBC Group offer the most advanced cyber security solutions to provide your business with the maximum possible protection against cyber attacks. Contact us online, call us on 0121 3680119 or email us at hello@ebcgroup.co.uk to find out more.

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There are 4 main reasons that you may consider outsourcing your HR if you are a company looking to grow; Ensuring your business is compliant, Improving your employee experience, Offering better benefits to your staff and reducing costs.

Working with SME businesses who have between 10 to 400 employees, we strive to take the strain of your HR troubles so you can continue to live a comfortable life. Our mission is to be outstanding, trusted advisors and partners to business everyday.

We understand that you built your business to do the thing you love and are good at - not necessarily managing people. That is where Clover HR come in. We are committed to providing quality and trusted advice and support that you can rely on. Opting for an outsourced HR service helps you reply to employee requests much quicker and in turn creating a happy and balanced work environment for your team and the business owner. Our sole purpose is to add value by supporting you to get the very best out of your team so you can drive the business forward and grow. Our mantra of ‘do the right thing’ drives us to excellence, to exceed expectation and to never settle for second best. All of our consultants have been hand picked for their specialisms in their particular field so we can meet the huge variety of complex employment challenges faced by business owners. Our ambition is to build a HR company that offers an unrivalled level of service that puts people - and not processes - at the heart of all it does.

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Ladies Day Tuesday 2nd August • Worcestershire County Cricket Club Royal London Cup Fixture • Worcestershire Rapids vs. Kent Sponsored by Anja Potze Fine Jewellery and Russell Meers & Gill Insurance Brokers

Situated in the Chestnut Marquee, with picturesque views The day’s cricket is complemented by top-class hospitality Guests will be treated to: VIP match admission • Reserved place in the Chestnut Marquee Drinks reception • Two-course lunch • Traditional afternoon tea Private pitch-side seating area, match begins at 11am Select local businesses exhibiting clothing and fashion accessories A table for 10 people £400 or individual places for £45 per person You can book online, email our Ticket Office at tickets@wccc.co.uk or telephone: 01905 337912 www.wccc.co.uk/ladies-day-2022

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July/August 2022

POLICYNEWS

WILL YOU BE LEVELLED BY THE UK SHARED PROSPERITY FUND? Much will have been heard about “Levelling Up” The government say it’s their central mission to level up the whole of the United Kingdom and this can take many forms. This revolves around levelling up opportunity and prosperity and overcoming deep-seated geographical inequalities. It is also about levelling up people’s pride in the places, and empowering local leaders and communities to create better places and better life chances. The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a central pillar of the UK government’s ambitious Levelling Up agenda. It provides £2.6 billion of new funding for local investment by March 2025, with all areas of the UK receiving an allocation via a funding formula. It will help places right across the country deliver enhanced outcomes. There are clear objectives with the fund. To boost productivity, pay, jobs and living standards, spread opportunities and improve public services, restore a sense of community, and empower local leaders and communities. With these objectives comes financial investment priorities and these are very clear. Community and Place Supporting Local Business People and Skills.

COMMUNITY AND PLACE The communities and place investment priority will enable places to invest to restore their community spaces and relationships and create the foundations for economic development at the neighbourhood-level. The intention of this is to strengthen the social fabric of communities, supporting in building pride in place. Strengthening our social fabric and fostering a sense of local pride and belonging, through investment in activities that enhance physical, cultural, and social ties and access to amenities, such as community infrastructure and local green space, and community-led projects. Additionally building resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods, through investment in quality places that people want to live, work, play and learn in, through targeted improvements to the built and natural environment innovative approaches to crime prevention.

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS The supporting local business investment priority will enable places to fund interventions that support local businesses to thrive, innovate and grow. Creating jobs and boosting community cohesion, through investments that build on existing industries and institutions, and range from support for starting businesses to visible improvements to local retail, hospitality, and leisure sector facilities. Promoting networking and collaboration, through interventions that bring together businesses and partners within and across sectors to share knowledge, expertise, and resources, and stimulate innovation and growth. Increasing private sector investment in growth-enhancing activities, through targeted support for small and medium-sized businesses to undertake new-to-firm innovation, adopt productivityenhancing, energy efficient and low carbon technologies, and techniques, and start or grow their exports.

PEOPLE AND SKILLS Through the people and skills investment priority, funding can help reduce the barriers some people face to employment and support them to move towards employment and education. Funding can be targeted into skills for local areas to support employment and local growth. Boosting core skills and support adults to progress in work, by targeting adults with no or low-level qualifications and skills in maths, and upskill the working population, yielding personal and societal economic impact, and by encouraging innovative approaches to reducing adult learning barriers.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Reducing levels of economic inactivity through investment in bespoke intensive life and employment support tailored to local need. Investment should facilitate the join-up of mainstream provision and local services within an area for participants, through the use of one-to-one keyworker support, improving employment outcomes for specific cohorts who face labour market barriers. To support people furthest from the labour market to overcome barriers to work by providing cohesive, locally tailored support including access to basic skills. Supporting local areas to fund gaps in local skills provision to support people to progress in work, and supplement local adult skills provision e.g. by providing additional volumes; delivering provision through wider range of routes or enabling more intensive/innovative provision, both qualification based and non-qualification based. This should be supplementary to provision available through national employment and skills programmes. So, what now, what is Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce doing to ensure this funding finds the right projects? Research into local business challenges is an ongoing theme for the Chamber. The results of the research provide the basis for lobbying of and working with local district and county councils to create and deliver. Then as projects are created, the Chamber, as a Business Representative Organisation will be involved in delivery and positive outcomes. Levelling up, together, for everyone’s benefit. 011

BUSINESSNEWS

MORGAN MOTOR COMPANY ANNOUNCES CHANGES TO ITS LEADERSHIP TEAM

WORCESTER BASED BUSINESS NAMED THE BEST TRAVEL AGENCY IN THE UK & IRELAND A high street agency in Worcestershire has recently taken the title of best travel agency in the UK and Ireland at the seventh annual TTG’s Top 50 ceremony in Birmingham. arrangeMY escape, Worcester was selected for this prestigious title as part of a power-list of the nation’s best agents by industry bible, Travel Trade Gazette. An independent, family-run travel business, the agency was selected from amongst 500 travel agencies and branches for the title, following a visit from a TTG journalist at the start of the year.

To help build on recent successes and future-proof the marque, the Morgan Motor Company is delighted to be strengthening its leadership team with the appointment of Steve Morris to Executive Chairman and Massimo Fumarola as Chief Executive Officer from 26 April 2022. Steve, who is entering his 40th year with the company, will be working alongside Massimo, who joins from Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. where he was Chief Project Management Officer and a member of the Management Board. Massimo’s arrival comes at a key strategic time for Morgan, the company have recently revealed the all-new Super 3, and are actively looking towards the future. Morgan’s focus is upon realising the growth set out in the business plan along with developing products that are appealing to its customers and compliant with future legislative standards. Steve’s new role remains full time, with the wider management team reporting to Massimo. Massimo and Steve will be jointly responsible for business objectives and will, alongside the Morgan management team, develop the business plan for 2023 and beyond. Things have never stood still at Morgan, the business will continue to evolve, exciting and delighting its customers and admirers as it has for 113 years. Steve Morris, Executive Chairman of Morgan Motor Company, commented “This is an extremely important appointment for the Morgan Motor Company. Massimo joins Morgan at a time when it is perfectly primed and positioned for future growth and further success. Therefore, it’s crucial that we have found someone of Massimo’s calibre, passion, and experience to work alongside me to help further cement the company’s recognition as one of the world’s most iconic sports car brands.” “On a personal note, I feel incredibly proud to be entering my 40th year at the company as Executive Chairman. To have led a team at Morgan that is,

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without doubt, the driving force behind many of Morgan’s notable successes is incredibly satisfying. Managing change is an important aspect of business leadership, I have established an ethos and ability for Morgan to embrace change and identify opportunity. This has become one of the inimitable traits of Morgan, one that gives Morgan the capability to adapt and prosper. I am excited to work with Massimo for many years to come and to see the company reach even greater heights of success, underpinned by passion, soul, heritage, and distinctive products.” Massimo Fumarola, Chief Executive Officer, Morgan Motor Company, also commented “Morgan Motor Company has a unique reputation for its rich heritage, distinctive styling, and superlative craftsmanship. As a sports car enthusiast, it’s an enormous honour to join such an iconic brand as CEO and work together with Steve to help amplify everything the company stands for. When I was a young boy, our neighbour had a Morgan, and I dreamt of driving a Morgan myself one day. For me, a Morgan is the best combination of pure vehicle dynamics, light-weight design, driving pleasure, quality refinement, functional design, and courageous engineering. Morgan sports cars are not about performances, they are about a truly authentic, unconventional and exhilarating driving experience. They stand for joy, freedom, individuality, self-confidence and aspirational lifestyle. Morgan has a timeless value proposition to ensure a best sensory customer engagement. I look forward to working together with the team and with our dealers to promote this unique brand globally”.

The business’ customer service, expertise, performance, and efforts to give back to the local community were all assessed as part of the awards process. The team were recognised for their innovative communication methods and technological advancements, particularly during the pandemic. Podcasts, GoPro and Loom videos were some of the innovative and informative methods of communication providing a more personalised and supportive approach. Adapting quickly to customer demands, arrangeMY escape introduced at-home visits as soon as it was possible, for those who still felt concerned about the pandemic. This is something that is still being offered, due to its success. Jennifer Lynch, arrangeMY escape general manager, commented: “I am beyond proud; the team have worked incredibly hard to build a solid community focused travel agency and to have this recognised by such a prestigious award is testament to our continued commitment. “There has been much uncertainty surrounding our industry at the moment. Coronavirus has affected each and every business associated in travel, including our own. Travel agents are often forgotten about in this crisis, working long hours to make sure customers are looked after. “However, there are positive signs and this brings us hope that we will become stronger, along with renewed confidence in booking with arrangeMY escape, and this award reinforcing our values.” As well as this prestigious accolade, arrangeMY escape was also awarded ‘best regional agency’ in central England. Opening in 2017, despite the pandemic, the travel agency has had success year on year, being named as a finalist in the same awards in 2020, winning customer service awards with Worcester BID in 2018 and then a member of the team scooping ‘travel agent of the year UK & Ireland in 2019. Jennifer added: “We are thankful to our loyal customers, suppliers and local businesses for their support over the last two years. We have been welcomed into the heart of Worcestershire and we cannot wait to share our good news.” To find out more about arrangeMY escape, visit www.arrangemyescape.com or call 01905 675015.

July/August 2022

THERE IS NO PLANET B At BioPak, it’s our mission to produce the most sustainable, environmentally friendly packaging on the market. We champion compostable packaging and we’re focused on reducing tree-based paper and fossil fuel-based plastic used in foodservice ware by offering an eco-friendly alternative. From tumblers to plates and everything in between, get in touch to find out more. It’s what the planet would choose.

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July/August 2022

THE PRINCESS ROYAL VISITS PERSHORE COLLEGE STUDENTS AT MAJOR SHOW The Princess Royal stopped by to speak with staff and students from a local college as they showcased their Commonwealth and environmental themed garden at a major show. The Queen’s only daughter visited the garden created by supported learning students from Pershore College during the RHS Malvern Spring Festival. Princess Anne spent time at the garden to find out about its inspiration, environmental credentials and the work the students had put in to create it.

which travelled around the edge of the raised beds. The garden was also carbon-negative. Catering students created a special cream tea for the unveiling of the garden including home baked scones and jam made using fruits grown at the college. Louise Badham, Head of Department for Supported Learning, Re-Engagement and Schools (Worcestershire) at WCG, said: “We were actually on-air giving a live radio interview at the time, and then we noticed that Her Royal Highness was approaching our garden!

A group of 90 students created the garden, which was entered into the School Garden Challenge at the event and came away as highly commended.

“The Princess Royal showed a real interest in the garden and asked us about the Commonwealth link, the plants in it and then we also spoke with her about the work the students had done in the creation process.

The four-metre squared plot included themed bunting made by the students and a model of the Queen’s royal train,

“It was a fantastic day and we had some tremendous feedback on the garden. To be awarded highly commended was

wonderful; the RHS judges said they really liked it because it was the kind of garden that could be at anyone’s home. To find out more about supported learning courses at Pershore College visit wcg.ac.uk/study.

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We hope this is your first Christmas card this year! Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

OLPRO SET TO DOUBLE SALES AFTER INVESTING IN NEW BOTTLING AND LABELLING PLANT MACHINERY Outdoor brand, OLPRO, is set to double the number of chemical products it sells after investing in an all-new bottling and labelling plant. Before investing in the new machinery, OLPRO would outsource the supply of tens of thousands of chemical products before selling them on OLPRO’s e-commerce website. However, the new investment means that the company is now able to create double the number of chemical products in-house over the next 12 months and the investment has also created one new full-time manufacturing job as a result. OLPRO is already well known in the outdoor industry for selling chemical products that are designed for cleaning various surfaces at the campsite, and more recently for chemical products which can be used to re-proof products that have lost their waterproof coating over time. This new investment means that the company can now look to expand both the quantity of the chemical products that it sells but also the variety of chemical products that it sells. OLPRO received 40% of the funding towards the new machinery from the Worcestershire County Council via the Here2Help Business grant. Daniel Walton, Founder of OLPRO, said: “We’re excited to now be in a position to bring more production in-house. Not only does this help to create local jobs, it also helps us to reduce costs on the products and continue to offer them at the highly competitive prices that we are known for as a brand.”

“Bringing more of the production of our products closer to our head office is a fundamental part of our business strategy moving forward, as it helps us to become more sustainable in an environmental sense, but also gives us more opportunity to be innovative and have greater control over improving the quality of our products in a way that continues to be cost-effective for our customers.”

successes local business OLPRO has experienced as a result of the Here2Help grant funding. The support we offer has not only made a difference to their business operations and generated local employment opportunities but has also helped provide a platform on which they can be enabled to innovate further for future growth and development.”

Councillor Marc Bayliss, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Economy and Skills said: “It is great to hear the positive

For more information on OLPRO and to view the company’s chemical products, visit their website www.olproshop.com.

The Fawcett Society and the Recruitment & Employment Confederation are calling on employers to stop asking applicants how much they were paid in their last job. By basing salary offers on previous income - any gender, race or disability pay gaps are perpetuated. Laura Hewett, Director, Hewett Recruitment

#ENDSALARYHISTORY As businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire continue to experience competition for skilled employees, companies are taking a deeper look at how their recruitment practices can become more inclusive. In light of this, the #EndSalaryHistory campaign is gaining traction.

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Asking a candidate about their current or previous salary is common practice as a means of establishing a suitable offer as part of the recruitment process. However, the campaign suggests that a fairer and more effective method would be to increase pay transparency both within the organisation and when it comes to recruitment advertising. Establishing robust salary bands using metrics such as the skill and responsibilities required to do the job, and the value of the work to the organisation means that

individuals can be fairly remunerated, based on what they bring to the role. Research by the Fawcett Society shows that asking about salary history makes the majority of candidates feel uncomfortable and less positive about the potential employer. Halting this dated practice could support building an employer brand as an inclusive employer of choice and contribute to creating a more balanced and fairer labour market for all workers. For further information on #EndSalaryHistory or to discuss how to make your recruitment processes more inclusive, please contact Laura Hewett. www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk.

July/August 2022

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Celebrating 50 years Serving the community since 1972

Fifty years on and the same values are at the heart of the company; service with integrity. Our experienced and hard working team has supported company growth and we are proud to serve the local businesses and individuals. With 50 vehicles, 60 trailers and 75 colleagues we have the scale to succeed but still provide a personal service. ABE has recently been recognised as an exemplar haulier through the DVSA’s Earned Recognition scheme. More information about our services can be found on our website or contact one of our friendly team on 01531-633195 / enquiries@abe-ledbury.co.uk.

ABE (Ledbury) Ltd Bromyard Road, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HRS8 1LG T: 01531 633 195 E: enquiries@abe-ledbury.co.uk W: abe-ledbury.co.uk

company

a LO GI STI C S

INTELLIGENCIA TRAINING & CIFAS FORM A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP Specialist apprenticeship training provider, Intelligencia Training have formed a strategic partnership with Cifas to generate an opportunity for apprentices to benefit from a range of added value activities whilst undertaking their Counter Fraud Investigator apprenticeship. Intelligencia training deliver an award-winning Counter Fraud Investigator apprenticeship curriculum to a growing number of Government agencies, public sector departments, local authorities and the banking, insurance and retail sectors Cifas is the UK’s fraud prevention service which leads the fight against fraud by sharing data, intelligence and learning. Organisations that collaborate with Cifas are drawn from all sectors, operating in both the public and private sectors working together to stop fraud. Cifas enable the secure sharing of high quality, trusted data to fight fraud. Their databases are the most comprehensive and diverse sources of fraud risk data in the UK.

This increased exposure to the Cifas community will provide considerable advantages associated with broadening sector understanding, networking and awareness of career progression opportunities.

Cifas data is included in the Office of National Statistics England and Wales Crime Statistics of police recorded crime and works alongside law enforcement agencies in tackling fraud, including sitting on the HMG Joint Fraud Taskforce.

Rachael Tiffen, Director for Learning & Public Sector for Cifas, said: “We are delighted to be a key part of this unique partnership. Our insights and opportunity to be part of our cross-sector fraud prevention community will be of enormous benefit to the apprentices that Intelligencia have trained, as well as access to cross sector information which will help provide a holistic view of fraud prevention activity not available elsewhere.”

By partnering with Intelligencia Training, individual apprentices will now benefit from becoming part of the Cifas community at the earliest point in their career, generating additional opportunities to join regular sector specific events.

Intelligencia Training’s Director of Education, Ian Richardson commented: “The opportunity for us to partner with Cifas is a great privilege and allows us to provide our apprentices with additional sector exposure from

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

one of the leaders in fraud prevention. Continuous Professional Development is key for all Fraud Investigators, and this will allow our apprentices to participate in further development activities. These highly anticipated events and seminars will also support the apprentices with Off The Job Training opportunities to ensure that they are continuously progressing throughout all parts of their apprenticeship.” To read more about Intelligencia Training’s levy funded apprenticeship training programmes visit www.intelligenciatraining.com and for more details regarding the services Cifas offer visit www.cifas.org.uk

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INSPIRINGWOMENINBUSINESS

Sarah Gooch CEO

SARAH’S HIRE

INSPIRING WOMEN IN BUSINESS In this issue, we celebrate Inspiring Women in Business. We take a look at the contribution that women-owned businesses are making to our local economy. We also shine a light on women who are making their mark in fields of expertise from equipment hire and sustainable packaging to logistics. Globally, much more remains to be done to ensure gender parity in both the ownership and leadership of businesses. Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are actively working to support more female leaders and role models who can inspire an inclusive style of leadership in business and civic life.

WOMEN’S BUSINESS FORUMS The popular Women’s Business Forum provides attendees with the opportunity to make business contacts and hear from interesting and informative speakers. After several successful years of running the event in Worcestershire, the Chamber has responded to popular demand and launched a Herefordshire Women’s Business Forum. Worcestershire events are organised in association with Harrison Clark Rickerbys and take place in a number of different venues across the county. hwchamber.co.uk/events/forums/womens-businessforum

COFFEE BREAK WITH SARAH GOOCH, CEO What is Sarah’s Hire? “In a nutshell, it’s equipment hire specialising in portable toilets.” What are the biggest challenges you face in running the business? “Keeping so many plates spinning! Clients’ needs are constantly changing and we can’t let them down. Toilets are referred to as necessariums for good reason!” You had very limited seed funding at the outset, how did you managed that? “Rigid control of cash-flow. I’ve also utilised government schemes over the Covid period to good effect. The business has grown now so I have more room for manoeuvre financially.” Being a ‘mum’ and CEO must create conflicting demands on your time. How do you handle this? “OK’ish according to my children!” Who are your typical customers and how do you find them? “Two broad types, events and construction. We’ve used digital marketing effectively so far but soon we are to test radio advertising and direct marketing.” Are your customers surprised to find it’s really a woman running what is primarily a toilet hire business? “Yes, but they soon realise it makes no difference!” I know your plan is to grow the business, how do you plan to achieve this and where do you see it being in 5 years? “Simple! £5million, 5 depots and 5 weeks’ holiday a year!” When you’re away from the office how do you relax? “The gym keeps me fit, girly weekends with my friends keep me sane and time with my family keeps me happy!

www.sarahhire.com 0203 935 6851

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July/August 2022

INSPIRINGWOMENINBUSINESS

Lorraine Brooks

Leanne Osborne

Distribution & Warehousing Manager

Managing Director

BIOPAK

ABE LEDBURY

When asked what I believe the key to success is, I always answer the same, “You can only change the future one day at a time, nothing happens overnight. Be part of that change”. I surround myself by men and women, professionally and personally, who want to be part of change. Those who fight for equal rights, for a better world, for a circular economy and for the future generation. Women are key to this progress and most importantly, women will make the world change.

2022 is a milestone year for Lorraine Brooks, Distribution and Warehousing Manager of ABE Ledbury - as well as turning 50 Lorraine is celebrating 25 years with ABE, which is also marking its half-century this year.

I have experienced many different situations within my roles and career, some positive and some not. The most important thing is that it has shaped me into the woman I am today. Strong! It made me realise that women achieving high-level roles in business is something everyone should strive for. Even in this day and age, I am still treated differently, or find occasions where I have to be part of a “man’s club” to succeed. BioPak changed that for me, and for many women within our business. Many businesses out there are evolving to not only champion women, but support the mindset of change. Women must support women. I am an advocate of seeing everyone progress and, in the business place, there are people who will find that a struggle if employed by companies who are closed minded. Surrounding yourself with like-minded women gives you a certain strength you can’t find elsewhere. My role models aren’t famous people, they are the women in my life, both professionally and personally, for many different reasons. Their resilient strength and confidence is something to be commended. Being made Managing Director of BioPak at 32 was daunting, however being supported and being around such inspiring people encouraged me to take the leap. You are not alone, we are many! Find out more about us at BioPak:

www.biopak.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Lorraine began her progressive career after responding to an ad in the local paper for a finance clerk at ABE. She said, “It was the start of the internet revolution and ABE had also recently become a shareholder member of Palletline, the first distribution network for palletised freight in the UK.” “These advancements were a catalyst for rapid growth for the business and my knowledge and skills developed quickly in response to the constant change - despite the long hours it was an exciting time.” Lorraine volunteered to attend Palletline’s national member meetings, and was one of only three women in attendance at the time. “It was a male dominated industry back then, but I used it as an opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s most respected leaders,” she said. Over the next decade, Lorraine also continued her studies, starting with Business Studies A-Level, then NVQ Level 4 in Business Administration, a Diploma in Management and finally an MBA in 2007. Today her responsibilities include employee engagement and development, preparing junior colleagues for leadership and encouraging diversity – she is working with Palletline to highlight the accessibility of logistics careers for women, which still represent less than 10% of the workforce. “It’s still a traditionally male industry, but the dynamics have changed for the better and my advice to women entering the sector would be to grab opportunities with both hands. Or create your own! “I feel privileged to have spent 25 years with a company that has encouraged and enabled me to fulfil my potential and it is my mission to retain that ethos.” For more information, visit: www.abe-ledbury.co.uk

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BUSINESSNEWS

HOW CHARITY SPONSORSHIP CAN SUPPORT BUSINESS GROWTH

By Sophie Burt, Head of Fundraising and Community Development, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity. The benefits for businesses and charities working together have long been realised. Aligning your business with a charity that connects with your own values can be a valuable growth opportunity, as well as providing the warm fuzzy feeling of making a real difference to your chosen cause. When it comes to event sponsorship this mutually beneficial partnership can go a step further and it’s important to discuss the aims that your business wants to achieve from this investment and explore the opportunities that exist beyond the usual logos, tickets and press releases. Charity event sponsorship can offer low-cost marketing for your business. The charity will have its own, often very engaged and invested, audience and so can offer a good ROI and a new way to differentiate your business. Customers are increasingly mindful so demonstrating your commitment to a charitable cause can improve public perception of your brand. Charity events can also be wonderful opportunities for client entertainment or staff appreciation. Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity will soon be hosting the annual Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust’s Staff Awards and will be offering a range of sponsorship opportunities that we hope will offer your business all the benefits that you are aiming to achieve. www.wahcharity.org

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PAYING IT FORWARD TO CELEBRATE 60 YEARS OF WORCESTER BOSCH Worcester Bosch offers a day of employee time to support on community projects across the country. The UK’s leading boiler brand, Worcester Bosch, have announced a new initiative to celebrate their 60th birthday, which gives its employees the opportunity to volunteer a working day for their charity or community project of choice. The company has over 1800 employees nationwide and are looking for Worcester and Clay Cross charities or community-led projects as well as groups that have national reach to put forward as inspiration. At Worcester Bosch, Corporate Social Responsibility is an intrinsic part of the business that extends beyond the products they manufacture to encompass environmental commitment, social community and the workplace. Giving back to the community, for the past sixty years, has not only helped the manufacturer support and build lasting connections with the local community but has helped inspire both employees and the next generation of apprentices and young professionals. Worcester Bosch puts charity and volunteering at the heart of their workforce and community. Every year, employees choose a charity to work

alongside and fundraise for. This year, the chosen charity is Mind who provide mental health services. Over the years hundreds of thousands of pounds have been raised for good causes along with days spent helping local charities including St Richard’s Hospice and Acorns Children’s Hospice. Victoria Billings, Director of Marketing at Worcester Bosch, comments, “Throughout our 60-year history, warming lives has been an intricate part of our business, not only in the products we manufacture but in the impact we have on those around us. We really want this to shine through during our anniversary by offering a collective 12,600 hours of support from all of our employees.” If you are looking for volunteers and are based in the Worcestershire or Clay Cross area, the company wants to hear from you! Please visit www.worcester-bosch. co.uk/60yearvolunteer and fill in the simple online form. Your project will be added to a register shared around the internal employees and our interested volunteers will be in touch.

July/August 2022

HOST YOUR EVE N T AT THE COURTYA RD

CORPORATE HIRE

The Courtyard can cater for a host of private events and functions. With multiple rooms and facilities available, from corporate style meeting rooms, multi-purpose studios and the luxurious Chase Lounge, there’s a space to suit all needs at The Courtyard.

From award ceremonies and conferences to team meetings and staff parties, The Courtyard can tailor a package just for you and your requirements.

The Courtyard can offer: Award winning catering, conference equipment, technical support, on-site parking, free wi-fi and much, much more! For more information about hiring a space at The Courtyard contact foh@courtyard.org.uk.

BOX OFFICE 01432 340555

courtyard.org.uk

In partnership with

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CONFERENCES & MEETINGS, CORPORATE FUN DAYS, BANQUETING & AWARDS DINNERS Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHAMBERTRAINING

GROWTH IS NEVER BY MERE CHANCE; IT IS THE RESULT OF FORCES WORKING TOGETHER

Our previous Manifesto documents have detailed “skills” as a key area of importance. Businesses recognise the significance of engaging in training and education, it’s the key to strengthening your workforce and effective succession planning. Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is committed to working with local schools, colleges, and businesses to reinforce this message, whilst the British Chambers of Commerce focuses on working with the Department of Education to create local skills improvement plans. In this year’s 22/23 Business Manifesto we see “skills” move to “people development”, a change from last year’s Manifesto. Several challenges present themselves with the long-term skills gap built on the impact of Brexit and Covid, leading to a huge disparity in supply and demand. A lack of available candidates, teamed with rising cost issues means sectors are beginning to feel the pressure with wage increases to attract and retain talent.

Yet despite inflation rocketing, massive hikes in energy prices and many facing a cost-of-living crisis, businesses still plan for growth and take opportunity where they can - prioritising on the things they can control,such as people and culture. Many companies have already adapted a flexible working policy, with a focus on health and wellbeing at home and in the workplace. Training and development of your employees is fundamental to driving growth in your business, providing job satisfaction, and reducing risk by retaining valuable staff.

development programmes for your business

The Chamber Training Department is committed to providing solutions that local businesses need to achieve their goals. We are increasing our portfolio to accommodate the ever-changing needs of learning and

or even just some thinking space.

sector. Be that a one-day training course to upskill or a course series to promote leadership and personal development. Whatever your requirements, rest assured we are here to help! Want to collaborate outside the office? Our room hire service could be the answer! Our training rooms are spacious and well-equipped. Situated 5 minutes away from Junction 6 of the M5 they are suitable for meetings, away days, your training sessions

For further details on our training courses, services, and facilities get in touch at training@hwchamber.co.uk

All courses can be found here: www.hwchamber.co.uk/training. Can’t find what you are looking for? Email training@hwchamber.co.uk with your course suggestions.

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July/August 2022

CHAMBERTRAINING JULY COURSE DATES 2022

IOSH Managing Safely Tuesday 5 July-Friday 8 July 9.00am-4.00pm £495+VAT Members £595+VAT Non-members

AUGUST COURSE DATES 2022 Canva - Simple and effective designs for digital marketing

Quality Manager Training - ISO9001

Tuesday 19 July 9.00am-12.30pm £90+VAT Members £110+VAT Non-members

Thursday 4 August 9.00am-4.00pm £236+VAT Members £295+VAT Non-members

Digital Reporting & Google Analytics

An Introduction to Digital Marketing and PR Tuesday 12 July 9.00-11.00am Free to Members £110+VAT Non-members

7 Steps to Closing the Deal Wednesday 20 July 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 9 August 9.00am-12.30pm £90+VAT Members £110+VAT Non-members

Emergency First Aid at Work (one day) Thursday 11 August 9.00am-4.30pm £90+VAT Members £110+VAT Non-members

NEW COURSE!

Managing People in the Team

How to use Microsoft Teams Effectively

Tuesday 12 July 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 26 July 9.00am-12.30pm £90+VAT Members £110+VAT Non-members

IOSH Managing Occupational Health & Wellbeing Wednesday 17 August 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Managing Performance in the Team Monday 22 August 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Communicating for Success

Assertiveness and Confidence at Work

Thursday 14 July 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Wednesday 27 July 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Train the Trainer Wednesday 31 August 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Whilst we’re continuously expanding our offering, please get in touch if there are any training courses you would like the Chamber to deliver in the future. All up to date courses can be found on our website: www.hwchamber.co.uk/events-and-training-calendar. Delegates have now been welcomed back to the Chamber office for our potfolio of training courses. For more information on any training courses, please see the website or email the training department training@hwchamber.co.uk.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BIG INTERVIEW

DRPG: A CREATIVE FORCE FOR GLOBAL CHANGE ‘In the future you will be judged by how much you put back into the community’. This simple advice has helped Dale Parmenter turn his company DRPG into a global creative powerhouse – and an industry world leader in sustainable working. Meeting sustainability expert Sam Wilson back in 2008 was a eureka moment for Dale. Her prediction - that ‘going green’ would become key to business success – put DRPG on a journey that saw them become the first creative agency in the world to gain international standards ISO14001 and ISO20121. This year, the team also received their ultimate business accolade – the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development. Now they are working towards the coveted B-Corp accreditation. Dale launched DRPG from a garden shed at the family home back in the 1980’s. Today, it’s a highly influential creative

communications group employing over 400 people throughout the UK, the US, Germany and Ireland. The multi-channel teams specialise in everything from video, events and digital, to research and strategy for top clients and brands including BT, ITV, John Lewis and Ferrari. Yet even with this global reach, company HQ has stayed close to Dale’s roots in Hartlebury. Dale explains: “From day one I’ve been passionate about sustainability and supporting the community, but we didn’t have a formal framework in place until I met Sam. She became – and still is – our sustainability consultant.

Dale with sustainability consultant Sam Wilson.

“At the time I was frustrated that green issues were just a tick box exercise for a lot of companies. In fact, there’s still a lot of greenwashing going on, whereby businesses say they have sustainable practices when in reality they don’t. “For me, sustainability has always been about taking action and making tangible change. For instance, we have achieved zero waste for landfill, got rid of single-use plastics in our buildings, and have 100% renewable energy at our HQ.” Dale continues: “Everyone focuses on the environmental aspect, which is incredibly important, but our mantra is the three P’s: People, Planet and Profit. “I use the analogy of three legs on a milking stool. If one is shorter than the others, the whole stool will rock. But if one of those legs doesn’t exist, it will fall over. Large organisations are now being judged on their effectiveness in delivering the triple bottom line. Clients are looking to us and our experience when raising their own profile in sustainability.” DRPG also aligns its working practices with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. However, for the team, it’s also very much about making small, regular changes, whether through better use of resources, reducing waste or carbon footprints, or supporting the local environment.

Founder and group CEO Dale Parmenter.

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Dale concedes that the Queen’s Award application process was ‘gruelling’. “Our previous entries failed because they were too corporate. So we rewrote our whole bid, focusing on what our people were actually doing and telling the stories around our different goals and objectives.

July/August 2022

BIG INTERVIEW

The DRPG team.

“For instance, our management systems have evolved to show how waste is measured in terms of power, water, recycling and so on. We now have sustainable measurements, objectives and goals for all our working practices.” Even now, while many of DRPG’s industry peers have yet to get a foothold on the sustainability ladder, DRPG is ahead of the curve with the launch of a new app. The app helps the team track the life of a project – based on practical production measures like water, waste and travel – to see where they are doing well and not so well. Reminders are set for targets so that adjustments can be made in real time, and the client gets a complete report at the end, detailing both successes and areas for improvement. DRPG also has its own CSR Charter spelling out its responsibilities and commitments for the next 10 years. “It’s important to create trust and transparency with our shareholders to show how we are doing good business, responsibly and sustainably. “Our first Charter was produced just before

lockdown, and the next one will dig deeper into our processes, systems and targets. “Gone are the days of tree-hugging! This is all about hard facts and measurement to benefit our clients, and also our competitors who will hopefully take inspiration from our work. “I was worried that momentum would be lost with Covid, but thankfully sustainability is still one of the No.1 priorities for businesses.” Even with last year’s lockdown restrictions, DRPG managed to run 58 community projects, including supporting St Richard’s Hospice, raising awareness about mental health and arranging a virtual music festival. So what is the future focus for DRPG? Technology and changing working trends are definitely in the mix, with a team dedicated to looking at new ways of global collaboration in these areas. Dale explains: “There’s been a huge shift and remote working has always been a

challenge for effective and consistent communication. So we’re looking at how clients can best connect (or re-connect) with their consumers and their own workforce. “At the same time, people are desperate to be face to face, and there’s been a huge surge in live events. “In the long term, I think there will be a continued mix between online and face to face interaction, but technology has got to progress in terms of creating a real experience. Zoom calls are all well and good, but then we miss out on important interaction like body language. “The metaverse (an emerging technology that combines virtual and augmented reality) can help us feel like we’re in the room, even when we’re not. I think that will become a much more useable and powerful tool in the business world, particularly in helping reduce overseas travel and flights.” More info at drpgroup.com

Everyone focuses on the environmental aspect, which is incredibly important, but our mantra is the three P’s: People, Planet and Profit. – Dale Parmenter, Founder & Group CEO, DPRG

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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COVERFEATURE

M-STUDIOS: MAKING VIDEOS FOR THE DIGITAL AGE You’re looking to market your company. You need a bright idea to stand out from the crowd. M-Studios can help you see the big picture with their creative video services. We’re not talking about shaky wedding footage or predictable drone shots here. Rory and Lizzie McAllister are seasoned industry experts, with an impressive portfolio spanning a combined 40 years of work for the BBC, local TV and radio, theatre and events. Rory specialises in filming and editing, while Lizzie writes storylines and scripts, and coaches clients who want to be their own video stars. Using their creativity to the full, their company makes fun, vibrant videos telling the real story behind a business – its people, values, aims, unique selling points – making sure your message is heard loud and clear. Whatever your brief – adverts, social media, internal comms, charity – Rory and Lizzie help you find the best promotional angle and then elevate it some more. Rory explains, “I think our unique selling point is the fact that we have the technical ability, combined with a proven background in storytelling and scriptwriting. In our experience, this sets us apart from other video production companies.” Rory’s enthusiasm and passion for his work are infectious, and it all started at a very young age. “I was around four when I started ‘broadcasting’ my own radio show – my listeners numbered three, all family! It was mainly Roland Rat impressions and records.” Bitten by the entertainment bug, Rory progressed to theatre work and then film school, culminating in a video production and media degree. He branched out into local radio, and then on to celebrity interviews covering “all the juicy stuff” in front of and behind the camera. To top it all, he has also worked in national media, with TV audience warm-up stints for Strictly and The One Show, and working for 5

Rory and Lizzie of M-Studios in action.

Live and Radio 4, alongside countless other high-profile commissions. Setting up a creative studio in Worcester was a natural progression, and M-Studios got off to a flying start in 2019, working with a host of high-profile clients like national tutoring service Kip McGrath and engineering giant AECOM. Then Covid hit. “The pandemic was like a hi-speed train hitting a wall. It completely derailed us,” Rory concedes. “But it was also a wake-up call. It helped see what we really valued in life and business.” The couple switched back to BBC and voiceover work until rules were eased for ‘essential services’. “We took business advice, and discovered that as a communications production company, we could take on projects that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.” So, for example, with church concerts, M-Studios filmed “little Songs of Praise episodes with a presenter, readings and songs”. While an extremely tough experience, Covid helped M-Studios reinvent its services, and Rory believes he can do the same for others.

The key to attracting customer interest is compelling content, great imagery, good stories and a plotline that pulls them in. 028

“Many businesses are at a crossroads when it comes to making the most of their image and brand. Video may be a 1980’s word, but it’s the future. “In this digital age, video and audio projects can really enhance a business profile. “We’ve just done a humorous Mastermind-style video for an insurance broker whose specialist subject was property. It’s about being creative. We also help companies create professional podcasts so that it doesn’t sound like it was recorded in a bedroom”. Video and podcasts add impact to websites and are an easy fit for a very diverse range of channels from social platforms such as LinkedIn and Instagram. Rory adds, “The key to attracting customer interest is compelling content, great imagery, good stories and a plotline that pulls them in. “A quick sell can be done in less than 90 seconds, while, for example, parents looking at a prospective school will happily browse through a 3-minute video while the kids are in bed. “If your content is interesting and informative, people won’t just swipe through it. Our background in telling stories to thousands of people is our greatest strength. We come up with great ideas every single day and put them into meaningful messages that grab attention.”

Find out more at m-studios.co.uk.

July/August 2022

COVERFEATURE

TRUELINE PRODUCTS HAS THE WINNING ‘EDGE’ Award-winning family firm Trueline Products, of Kidderminster, are proud to be ‘Made in Britain’. Having celebrated nearly 30 years in the fabrication industry, this highly skilled team continues to fly the flag for UK manufacturing. Steve and Anita Mares founded Trueline in Telford back in 1994, as a specialist producer of EWI render beads for the construction industry. After moving the company to Kidderminster, their son Luke Wellings joined the family business and contributed to its rapid growth.

The team celebrate their win at the INCA Awards.

Together they mapped out a clear strategy, which has seen Trueline enjoy an exponential rise in investment, sales, production and innovation ever since.

Trueline’s boom in business continues to this day with significant expansion plans on the cards.

Having built a solid reputation as a trusted supply chain partner, Trueline moved to their current home on Firs Industrial Estate and opened a Glasgow office. In fact, many of their contracts are repeat orders from satisfied customers seeking specialist solutions for external wall insulation, rendering and facades. Two years ago, the company invested over £600,000 in new machinery and a new paint line to double capacity, followed this year by a major IT investment which offers customers real-time updates on orders and delivery. They are also ISO 14001, ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 accredited. And to put the icing on the cake, the whole team’s efforts are winning awards. They’ve already been recognised by their peers with a ‘Supplier of the Year’ trophy at annual industry awards INCA (the Insulated Render and Cladding Association). Now the company are finalists in ‘Family Business of the Year’ and ‘More than 50 Employees Business of the Year’, at this year’s SME National Business Awards. Winners will be announced in December at Wembley Stadium, so good luck to the team!

What does Steve and Luke put the company’s enduring success down to in a competitive marketplace? Steve says: “We are really proud to be a homegrown company, still based in Worcestershire, with a strong customer base across the UK. We particularly value our team and their achievements. “Innovation in our design and products has also been crucial,” he adds. “A substantial amount has been invested in state-of-the-art machinery and software, ensuring that we always have extensive stock capacity and short lead times for orders right across the UK.

Steve concludes: “We’re committed to building on our tradition of quality craftsmanship and continual growth, and are always on the lookout for enthusiastic, keen people to join our workforce, who are passionate about manufacturing, innovation and technology and willing to train and learn on the job, or skilled employees who may be looking for a new challenge.” With such a strong track record of investment in their people and products, it’s safe to say that Trueline Products looks set to enjoy many more years in business as a key industry supplier. More information at truelineproducts.co.uk.

“Also, of course, we invest a lot in our team in terms of training and development. They have made Trueline the company it is today!” Luke agrees: “Investing in our team is essential to us. We couldn’t have achieved everything to date without such a skilled workforce. In fact, many of the team have been with us for over 15 years, or even longer!” The company is currently on a recruitment drive for apprentices and to fill positions across the manufacturing side of the business.

RECENT PROJECTS Trueline Products have worked on a wide and complex variety of projects for the construction and development industry. These include: The second phase of the ---state-of-the-art training and ---teaching facility at Brighton and ---Hove Albion Football Club, in ---Sussex. The expansion forms part ---of the club’s commitment to the ---women’s team. Solving structural challenges on a ---historical railway building, now a ---Wetherspoons in Aberystwyth, and ---designing and manufacturing ---bespoke copings and brackets.

MD, Steve Mares.

Director, Luke Wellings.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

The Premier Inn, in Faversham, ---where the company worked with ---the main contractor on a new hotel ---near the M2.

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TOP FINANCIAL WELLBEING TIPS FOR EMPLOYERS It’s sadly no secret that financial worries are on the rise, with the average household set to be £1,000 worse off this year compared to last.

Top financial wellbeing tips for employers: 1.

Explore cost-effective support – in an ideal world, you’d be able to offset the cost of living increases with pay rises for everyone. But with that not being feasible for a lot of companies, instead it’s worth exploring what support you can provide at low/no cost to yourself: more home-based working to reduce petrol costs, for example.

Money-specific benefits – there are lots of benefits out there now which support the financial health of employees, Health Cash Plans and Bundle for example – the latter costing just £2 per employee per month. These all include access to Paypare Perks, a discounts platform with offers on everything from the weekly shop to gym memberships.

At Paycare, we’re seeing an increase in individuals concerned about their financial wellbeing – and similarly, companies who are looking to support their teams with the cost of living crisis. While reversing the utility and petrol price hikes, lowering inflation or other costs of living isn’t something many of us have a direct say in, the good news is that there are plenty of things we can be doing as employers to help our teams weather the storm as best as we can, and support positive financial wellbeing. As money issues can have a profound impact on our mental and emotional health, it isn’t just about how we look after our finances, but what how we feel about them and what we can do to manage them.

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Stephen Burton-Pye

Being open – this can include regular wellness check-ins and promoting a culture where employees can discuss their money worries openly, without fear that it’s a ‘taboo’ conversation within your organisation.

For more information about supporting your team’s wellbeing, download our free guide from www.paycare.org/workplace-wellbeing.

July/August 2022

To Let

New and Refurbished Industrial Units Pleasant and Convenient Location For enquiries please call

01384 569556 or 01299 822731 Wilden Industrial Estates Wilden lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 9JY

enquiries@wildenestates.co.uk

www.wildenestates.co.uk

Find your digital voice! Engaging your brand with audiences that matter.

be-everywhere.co.uk E: info@be-everywhere.co.uk T: 0191 580 5990

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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EVENTS

BOOK YOUR STAND FOR THE AUTUMN BUSINESS EXPO, SPONSORED BY HEWETT RECRUITMENT

With over 120 exhibitors from lots of business sectors, don’t miss the chance to raise your profile with others in the Herefordshire & Worcestershire business community. This is the go-to event for

anyone starting or growing a business as well as for business professionals looking to improve skills and develop key relationships through networking. What are the benefits of exhibiting? >>

The Networking Zone Sponsored by Worcestershire Growth Hub This zone provides exhibitors and visitors with a place to take a seat, catch up with old and new contacts and do business throughout the day. Free tea and coffee, provided by Water Cooler World, will be in the Networking Zone throughout the day.

Food and Drink Producers Zone

Sponsored by mfg Solicitors Local food and drink companies will be showcasing their products and providing free samples throughout the day for everyone to taste and experience. Attendees will also have the opportunity to buy goods or gifts to enjoy at home!

Health and Wellbeing Zone

Sponsored by Paycare New for 2022, this interactive zone will focus on the importance of supporting workplace health and wellbeing with different business stands offering a variety of free activities, services and information.

Networking Breakfast - 8.00-9.00am

Sponsored by We are the Missing Link Pre booking is essential. £15.00+VAT Chamber Members / £20.00 Non members Over 200 business professionals go to the networking breakfast to begin a busy day of meeting people and interacting before the Expo officially opens at 9.00am. Based on feedback from previous events and attendees, we have made some small changes to the breakfast, which will now include breakfast rolls, danish pastries, fruit and refreshments. We have also shortened the time by thirty minutes to allow more time on the stands and the price per head has been reduced. Exhibition stands start from only £239.00+VAT, and more information on visiting can be found at www.hwchamber.co.uk/events/business-expo

Generate sales leads Promote your company Find new suppliers Network with business professionals Increase your product and service profile Make new business contacts

UPCOMING EVENTS Manufacturing Forum Tuesday 26 July | 9.30-11.30am Steatite Limited, Ravensbank Business Park, Acanthus Road, Redditch B98 9EX A strategic group to promote the interests of manufacturers in our region. It champions and lobbies for specific strategies and policies that benefit the members – from incubation to maturity, with a specific focus on skills, innovation and growth.

Members Feedback Roundtable Thursday 28 July | 10.00-11.00am NMiTE, Blackfriars Street, Hereford HR4 9HS The good, the bad and the ugly, we want to know how you feel about your Chamber Membership. We’re inviting Members to attend our new roundtable event, alongside a selection of our Directors & Managers, to share what’s working for your Membership and what’s not. So whether you have a good news story you’d like to share or a concern that you think needs attention, we would love to hear from you to help better our service.

Lunchtime Networking Thursday 18 August | 12.00-1.00pm Chamber Zoom

Tickets on sale for the Womens Business Conference

Sponsored by Harrison Clark Rickerbys Join business professionals from across Herefordshire and Worcestershire for our annual Women’s Business Conference in association with Harrison Clark Rickerbys. Hear from our inspiring female speakers, benefit from plenty of networking opportunities throughout the day and enjoy a delicious two course lunch. Wednesday 7 Septetmber | 9.00am-3.00pm | Crumplebury, Whitbourne, Worcester WR6 5SG £40.00+VAT Chamber Members / £55.00+VAT Non-members

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Sign up to our Lunchtime Networking to raise your business profile and make valuable business contacts. The session will provide the opportunity for each attendee to participate in a 60 second introduction and have further conversations in smaller groups in the break out rooms. Please note this webinar is limited to 30 participants and available to Members only.

July/August 2022

TWOCOUNTIES

TREES PLANTED FOR THE JUBILEE AT EVESHAM COLLEGE AND PERSHORE COLLEGE This reduction was supported by the college group’s detailed Environmental Policy, which is fundamental to its business strategy and is linked to its Sustainability Policy.

Students and staff at Pershore College and Evesham College have been planting trees to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. WCG, which includes six colleges across Warwickshire and Worcestershire, is taking part in the Queen’s Green Canopy, an initiative which invites people to ‘plant a tree for the Jubilee’ to mark the Queen’s 70 years of service and enhance the environment. Students and staff at Evesham College and Pershore College have come together to plant a rowan tree at each of the sites. The young rowan trees, which are a favourite for wildlife, were supplied by Pershore College Garden Centre and Nursery, which is also part of WCG. The initiative’s focus on sustainability mirrors the college group’s own green ethos, and the tree planting comes as the college group is awarded the Planet Mark sustainability certificate for an eighth consecutive year, which recognises organisations that make year-on-year reductions in carbon emissions. WCG reported a 7.5 per cent reduction in carbon emissions in 2020/21 compared to the previous year.

It has now set a target in conjunction with Planet Mark to reduce its carbon footprint by another 2.5 per cent in the 2021/22 academic year, alongside launching its revised Sustainability Strategy and Climate Action Roadmap. Angela Joyce, Chief Executive of WCG, said: “We are extremely pleased to support the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative and add a rowan tree to the grounds of each of our colleges. “The trees will not only be a lasting legacy in recognition of the Queen’s 70 years of service, but also help to enhance the environment. “We run a number of land-based courses at WCG so sustainability is something that is embedded in both our policies and our curriculum, and we have worked hard to reduce our carbon footprint, cut down waste and crack down on single use plastics. “This is why we are also thrilled to be awarded the Planet Mark sustainability certificate for the eighth consecutive year. “We are continuing to develop our policies and engage with students and staff about the importance of carbon reduction and are committed to reducing our carbon footprint even further during this academic year and beyond.”

THE MARCHES LEP: ENERGY FUND The Marches Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) recognises that energy provision is a critical element for unlocking future growth. Consequently, the Marches LEP Board has given approval to open a £4million call for capital energy projects. The LEP is seeking to support projects in the Marches that are able to achieve the following key objectives, as set out in the Marches Energy Strategy: Smart control and mitigation of grid ---constraints Innovation in agricultural technologies Sufficient reliable energy supply Development of the supply chain in key ---areas of the low carbon economy Local renewable energy supply Addressing high levels of fuel poverty

and a requirement for a minimum of 20% match funding. The call is being run as a two-stage process. Applications will initially be asked to submit a short Expression of Interest (EOI) form. Shortlisted projects will then be invited to submit a Full Business Case, for appraisal. The full business cases will need to be able to demonstrate how they meet the objectives of the Fund and that they can contribute at least 20% match funding to the project. See the Marches LEP Energy Fund Guidance on how to submit an Expression of Interest to the Marches Energy Fund. A list of Frequently Asked Questions is also available. If you have any further questions, please email tim.yair@nottinghamcity.gov.uk.

The call is for projects with a minimum grant funding requirement of £100,000, and a maximum value of £2,000,000

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

GJS DILLON NEGOTIATES LETTINGS FOR ENTIRE INDUSTRIAL PARK IN KIDDERMINSTER Worcestershire commercial property consultancy GJS Dillon has successfully negotiated all six lettings at an industrial park in Kidderminster. Relay Engineering Ltd, a specialist service provider operating primarily in the marine, oil and gas industries and CrossFit Wyre Forest, a fitness training facility, were the first two occupiers. They have now been joined by Music Industry Education LLP, Syxthsense Ltd, an energy equipment and solutions company and Streamline Solid Surfacing Ltd, a specialist in interior surfaces. The final letting to 24xpress Ltd, a courier company, has just been completed. The six industrial warehouse/units are based at Forest Industrial Park in Kidderminster, and benefit from six-metre high eaves, good loading/unloading facilities and allocated parking. The development supports Wyre Forest District Council’s strategy to build a portfolio of small and medium-sized units to enable businesses to grow locally and attract new investment into the area. The units are ideally located close to Kidderminster town centre with easy access to Junctions 4,5 and 6 of the M5. Andrew Lewis, GJS Dillon’s Commercial Agency Director who negotiated all of the 5-year leases says ‘We’re delighted that all six of these units have been let. As highlighted in our 2022 Worcestershire Commercial Property Market Report, the Wyre Forest industrial market has improved the most out of all six sub-districts of Worcestershire in the past five years. Forest Industrial Park is a great example of how Councils can support local businesses in providing the right size of accommodation to cater for a buoyant industrial market’ Cllr Helen Dyke, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council said ‘It’s great to see new units being created that are in demand in this area. We continue to make small and medium-sized businesses a priority as well as the larger more established companies in terms of providing modern and fit for purpose work spaces.’ For further details on commercial property available in Worcestershire please contact GJS Dillon’s Agency team on 01905 676169 or via andrewlewis@gjsdillon.co.uk GJS Dillon’s Worcestershire Commercial Property Market Report can be found here www.gjsdillon.co.uk/marketreport.

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MOVERSANDSHAKERS

NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Joe Goldsmith

When Joe Goldsmith joined product design consultancy, Simple Design Works, three years ago, he’d already had significant experience in the FMCG sector. It’s highly likely that today you’ll have used some of the everyday products he’s designed. Joe is passionate about human-centred design and incorporates research, trends and strategy into the products that Simple Design Works design. Joe’s been promoted to Lead Product Designer which is part of the Company’s growth strategy to build a world-class team whilst incorporating ethnography into all projects. www.simpledesignworks.co.uk

Laurence Cooper

HAZELTON MOUNTFORD WELCOME LAURENCE TO THE TEAM Laurence Cooper joins the team at Hazelton Mountford as Junior Account Executive.

really looking forward to furthering my

Based at the Worcester offices, right in the heart of the city in Bank Street, Laurence will focus on new business as well as managing a small book of existing accounts at the growing Insurance Brokers.

new role as a Junior Account Executive for

Hazelton Mountford are expanding and currently seeking a number of positions including Claims Handler, Account Executive and Trainee Account Executive. For more about the roles, and what it’s like to work at Hazelton Mountford, please go to: www.hazeltonmountford.co.uk/ careers-at-hazelton-mountford.

and it’s my pleasure to welcome Laurence

Laurence says: “I have worked in insurance since 2015, where I started in personal lines for A Plan Insurance in Foregate Street and gained my initial CII qualification. I’m

conversation about what it’s like to work at

qualifications and getting stuck into my Hazelton Mountford.” Director, Jake Mountford, comments: “Our people are at the heart of our business to the team at Hazelton Mountford. We look forward to seeing him learn and grow within the business. Welcome to the team!” The leadership team at Hazelton Mountford have recently unveiled their updated benefits scheme and welcome a the growing firm. Contact the team on 01905 611951.

MARSH COMMERCIAL APPOINTS AMANDA JOLLEY AS VICE PRESIDENT IN HEREFORD AND LUDLOW We’re excited to announce that new chamber member, Marsh Commercial, has appointed Amanda Jolley as Vice President for their Hereford and Ludlow offices. Amanda Jolley, said: “I’m thrilled to be leading the offices to build on the already stellar reputation and heritage we have in the local communities. The team work tirelessly behind the scenes, backing our clients to succeed. I’m looking forward to expanding our expertise and truly personal touch in the coming years.” www.marshcommercial.co.uk

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Amanda Jolley

July/August 2022

NEWMEMBERSPROFILE

BAXTER WILLIAMS

Nick Baxter

“CONNECTING EXCEPTIONAL PEOPLE” We are pleased to welcome our new Strategic Members in Baxter Williams. Founded in 2016, Baxter Williams recruit across several sectors to include executive search and commercial appointments both temporary and permanent. Whilst its founder Nick Baxter was originally from Birmingham, after graduating he played pro rugby for Worcester Warriors where he represented England Students, England 7’s and the Barbarians. “I’m proud to call Worcester my home and relish the opportunity to build strong working relationships across the Herefordshire and Worcestershire business community. We are very fortunate to work with some amazing organisations and leaders in the region including Bosch, Sanctuary Homes, Karndean and Tyrrells to name a few.” As a Non-Executive Director of the Worcestershire LEP, Nick is aware of the much-documented candidate and skills shortages across the region and gets immense satisfaction in leading, advising

& transforming businesses through their most valuable asset - their people.

organisations to significantly improve retention and productivity.

“Recruitment is just one of the great things Baxter Williams do which includes delivering a range of employee engagement programs. Having had considerable exposure to both national and international elite sports environments I recognise the importance of culture in creating high performing and productive teams. We also help with defining organisations’ succession planning so that companies provide their staff the chance to grow, develop and progress in their

In addition, we are often involved in the annual business planning process by creating robust people strategies to underpin planned growth. One of our key value adds is connecting our clients with each other where we see any potential synergy across their respective supply chains. We are delighted to join the Chamber as Strategic Members and welcome the opportunity to meet business leaders who want to attract and retain the best talent.”

VIDEO COMPANY WITH A DIFFERENCE IS PLANNING BIG FOR THE FUTURE M-Studios are excited to have recently joined the Chamber as Strategic Members and are looking forward to connecting with other companies within the Chamber as 2022 marches forward and into the future. We are presenters with years of experience working in the media. We have worked with the BBC and local radio, television and compèred for events of thousands, such as

the Olympics, which means that we understand how to help our clients to present themselves, and how to create a clear and engaging message. We work with clients uniquely to make our videos stand out; not just an ‘average’ marketing video, but one that can tell a story and give a flavour of who we are representing and their individual brand voice. We produce professional quality videos that are bold, creative, and interesting with great content and visuals; not “click-bait”, but one to raise the company’s profile; something eminently shareable, and to help any

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

business stand head-and-shoulders above the crowd. With the increased understanding of the value of video within the digital world of marketing, and desire growing to exploit this form of media, we are looking forward to this year being a very productive one and having increased opportunities to connect to see how we can enhance and support other businesses by doing what we do best. We are looking forward to connecting with others and getting to know you further as the year moves on.

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WORCESTERSHIRE ACCOUNTANT ELECTED AS PRESIDENT OF ICAEW BIRMINGHAM AND WEST MIDLANDS Ben Powell

Ballards LLP partner Ben Powell has been appointed President of the Birmingham and West Midlands branch of The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW) as confirmed in their recent annual meeting. Ben heads up the corporate offering at Droitwich-based Ballards LLP, an award-winning firm of chartered accountants that offers a range of services spanning audit, taxation, transaction services, recruitment, and digital consultancy. ICAEW Birmingham and West Midlands plays an important role in supporting local members to address the challenges facing the accountancy profession and other businesses. As President Ben will represent almost 7,000 ICAEW Chartered

Accountants living and working in the local area. He will focus on developing close connections with and between members by bringing new and innovative events and initiatives to the area.

economy of the UK. This role offers the chance to represent the great chartered accountancy profession and ensure our voices are heard regarding the Levelling Up agenda and the need to move towards a sustainable and green economy. ICAEW and its members are leading players in driving the needed change to protect the economy and the environment for future generations. With many early career committee members and a vibrant student society, the future looks bright for our profession in the West Midlands.” James Syree, partner and CEO at Ballards LLP, said: “We are immensely pleased by Ben’s recent appointment. As a firm we have always had strong links with the ICAEW and we are looking forward to seeing Ben’s contribution during his tenure.” www.ballardsllp.com

Speaking of his appointment, Ben said: “I am passionate about the West Midlands and what we offer to the wider culture and

Did you know? In 2021 Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire supported over 11,000 people. In 2022 we want to reach even more people that need us

I could not have managed without the assistance I received

of our Help at Home clients said that our service had a positive impact on them

How can I help?

Donate if you can Volunteer with us Payroll giving Run a fundraising event

T: 0800 008 6077 E: referralhub@ageukhw.org.uk

Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire; a registered charity, No. 1080545, a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales No. 3942023.

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July/August 2022

BUSINESSNEWS

SN FINANCIAL SERVICES WIN NATIONAL AWARD SN Financial Services are proud to announce their success in winning a national award at the Intelliflo Connected conference in May. This prestigious prize from Intelliflo, a leading CRM provider in the financial sector, recognised SN Financial as the “Super User” for uptake of the customer “Personal Finance Portal”. Intelliflo recognised the company for its adoption of the technology which allows customers to access their finance portfolio dynamically whilst maintaining security and data protection. SN Financial Services fought off strong competition from several contenders to pick up the award presented by Gabby Logan at the Park Plaza in London. Director, Samantha Neale said, “We are delighted to win this award and provide such an important part of our service to customers through the secure portal. We pride ourselves on providing a personal service, complemented by technology that really sets us apart from our competitors giving our clients a facility that suits their fast paced, online lives”.

BECKER CASE UNDERLINES SERIOUSNESS OF INSOLVENCY LAWS Samuel Pedley

and sentenced to prison for just over two years. Aside from his global stardom, his case demonstrates how seriously the UK Insolvency Service takes its responsibilities around bankruptcy and the penalties it is prepared to impose against individuals who avoid declaring the true position around their assets. There are a series of powers available to the court in these cases and they include community, supervision, rehabilitation, disqualification and conditional orders. In Becker’s case, however, the court went significantly further and found that his ‘dishonesty and lack of humility’ played a considerable part in his sentencing. Overall, the case highlights to those who are made bankrupt that they should be honest and take professional advice as early as possible.

As reported widely across the media, German tennis star Boris Becker has recently been found guilty of four charges under the Insolvency Act

For more information, readers can email Sam Pedley at mfg Solicitors through, samuel.pedley@ mfgsolicitors.com.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

A BEACON OF INNOVATION AND ENTERPRISE WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS TECHNOLOGY The 700 SqM Digital Culture Hub (DCH) is part of the successful bid by Rural Media to the Government’s Stronger Towns Fund and is the digital skills component of the Hereford Stronger Towns Skills Foundry initiative. The Skills Foundry is a partnership between NMITE, Rural Media, Hereford College of Arts, Growing Local CIC, and South Side. The DCH will be based in the centre of Hereford and contribute to “levelling-up” Herefordshire by creating an ecosystem of digital creativity and innovation for Herefordshire. Studio-based and remote incubator/accelerator programmes will enable young creative talent to establish new cultural enterprises in Herefordshire and strengthen the talent supply chain. The Digital Culture Hub has been designed around 5 skills and cultural development areas. Multi-level digital creative skills training, cultural & creative business development, broadcast, film, TV, audio, and interactive facilities. Additionally, mobile screen and exhibition units will help promote cultural, educational, and business opportunities and activities, and a public digital gallery will facilitate an immersive, and moving image exhibition functionality. The Digital Culture Hub will capitalise on: The growth of creative industry and micro-businesses Benefit public, private and VCSE sectors and the county’s zero-carbon targets Combat rural isolation and challenges stemming from an older age demographic Address the critical issue of ex-migration of young people from Herefordshire and attract talent seeking to establish tech businesses in the area Draw upon HCA and RM’s expertise in inclusion, diversity and social mobility Support and facilitate digital activity of the Museum, Library and Archive services Raise residents’ sense of pride in their city and county through public exhibition of cutting-edge digital cultural content Attract start-ups from further afield to re-locate to Herefordshire and encourage fringe enterprises and collaborative projects Nic Millington, Founder and CEO at Rural Media said, “The Digital Culture Hub will make a change in Herefordshire and the rural West Midlands by investing diverse individuals and communities with digital communication skills and the means to share their stories, build new enterprises, and put the county on the national and international map.”

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Sunday 4th September 2022 10am-4pm Strensham Airbase WR8 0BZ

STRENSHAM AIRBASE

Free entry & parking

midlandsairambulance.com/events Meet the crew and tour the aircraft Attractions and refreshments Lots more for the whole family!

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July/August 2022

CHARITYNEWS

CARER FRIENDLY EMPLOYER NETWORK Worcestershire Association of Carers –

Improve job satisfaction

Support for Working Carers

Decrease staff turnover

1 in 7 employees in the UK is in a caring

Local charity, Worcestershire

role and this number is set to rise

Association of Carers, hosts the Carer

dramatically by 2030. The peak age for

Friendly Employer Network which

caring is between 45-64, which means

brings like minded employers together

some of the most experienced staff will

to enable them to develop their working

also be in a caring role. Often staff are

carer support. Member benefits include:

struggling to balance the demands of work and being a carer. 600 employees leave work every day in the UK because of the pressure this can bring.

Dedicated telephone support for ----both Line Managers and Carers Opportunities to meet with a range of

Can employers afford to lose them?

----professionals to explore good

As an employer recognising that there

----practice and develop your businesses

are working carers in your workforce,

----approach to support working carers

and supporting them to manage their caring responsibilities and work can: Reduce staff stress Improve job performance

Unlimited E-carer awareness learning ----module

Online resources library For more information on becoming a member please contact Jane Taylor, Carer Friendly Employer Network Lead:

Regular carers clinics at your ----workplace

Rod Laight (Chairman of Primrose Hospice), The Rt Hon Sajid Javid and David Burrell (Chief Executive Officer Primrose Hospice).

Financial and legal carer information ----sessions in your place of work

CFEN@carersworcs.org.uk or visit www.carersworcs.org.uk.

The Rt Hon Sajid Javid speaking at Primrose Hospice’s Network Business Lunch.

SUCCESSFUL LOCAL BUSINESS LUNCH WITH BROMSGROVE MP RAISES OVER £3000 FOR PRIMROSE HOSPICE Primrose Hospice & Family Support Centre were pleased to once again be joined by their patron The Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP at their recent Networking Business Lunch and Q&A. The business lunch raised over £3000 which will help the hospice to support more people living with life-limiting illnesses and families in the local area. Mr Javid said: “It was great to once again support Primrose Hospice and Family Support Centre with their successful business lunch. This is a charity that is extremely important to the local community around Bromsgrove and Redditch. It is an honour to be their patron and support them in any way I can.”

The event held in Bromsgrove saw local businesses coming together to enjoy an afternoon of delicious food and networking, followed by Q&A from Mr Javid. David Burrell, Chief Executive Officer at Primrose Hospice said: “We would like to thank Mr Javid for his continued support with our Hospice. From raising over £20k through his 10K running challenge last year to something slightly less energetic at our Business Lunch. We are proud to have Mr Javid as our patron and it was a real pleasure to have him as our guest at our recent event. Thank you to all the businesses who attended our business lunch, we hope that

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

you can join us again for one of our many fundraising events throughout the year.” Primrose Hospice & Family Support Centre offer care and advice to patients living with a life-limiting condition and support families in the Northeast Worcestershire area. As an independent charity, they rely on the support of individuals and businesses to help them to raise the £1.75 million needed each year for them to provide services free to our local community. T: 01527 871051 W: www.primrosehospice.org

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INTERNATIONALTRADE

IS YOUR BUSINESS READY FOR THE CHANGE FROM CHIEF TO CDS?

Don’t let the new requirements for Import and Export declarations cause you delays! If your business trades overseas, by now you probably feel confident in navigating the paperwork. However, major system changes are coming soon which means you will need to be prepared for the switch over. With over 30 years of service, the Customs Handling of Import and Export (CHIEF) system is being retired and will be replaced by the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), in two stages. For imports, CHIEF is closing for good on 30th September 2022 and for Exports, 31st March 2023. This upgrade in IT systems is vital to keep up with the growing demand for Import and Export declarations following Brexit. The move falls in line with the Government’s ambition to have the world’s most efficient customs system by 2025, through the offer of resilience to change and reliability to the trade. There are 5 simple steps that will help your business understand the changes you need to make.

STAGE 1: ACCESS TO THE GOVERNMENT GATEWAY. Make sure you have access to the Government Gateway. To do this, you will need to obtain a Government Gateway ID via the Gateway portal online. You will also need to ensure you 040

have applied for/received a GB EORI.

STAGE 2: GET ACCESS TO THE CDS SERVICES Once you are in your Government Gateway, you will be able to see all your information relating to CDS, but first, you will need to provide the following information. GB EORI number Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) Business Address National Insurance Number Business start date Email address Once these have been provided you will be able to see your financial dashboard and a secure file upload service for HMRC document checks on CDS entries. It is important to note that you do not have access to submit declarations at this stage.

STAGE 3: LEARN ABOUT CDS Stage three is all about learning the new requirements in order to successfully submit a customs declaration on CDS. Most of this learning can be done through Volume 3 of HMRC’s CDS guidance. This will show you all the requirements for each Data Element that is now required to complete your entry.

www.chambercustoms.co.uk/ trainingcoursescustoms

STAGE 4: SETTING UP DUTY PAYMENTS ON CDS Once you have an understanding of completion, you can move on to stage four which is the finances. The two main methods of payment for duties will be the deferment account and CDS Cash Account. Both are accessible via your Government Gateway CDS portal. For the deferment account, you will need to set up a second Direct Debit for CDS. It is important that you do not cancel your first Direct Debit for CHIEF.

STAGE 5: MOVING OVER TO CDS Once this is all in hand it’s time to move on to stage 5, finding a provider. At this stage, you will need to communicate with your software provider to ensure they are ready for CDS. If they are CDS ready, they can give you access to the Trader Dress Rehearsal (TDR) which will allow you to complete test entries before moving into the live environment. If you are not completing the entries yourself then start a conversation with your Customs Agents to find out their readiness. Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber within the Chamber Customs network is ready for this change and are happy to act as customs agents for anyone who is in need of this service. The CDS changeover is coming and it is important that you get ready now! Our Chamber customs team are now set up and live on the CDS system to allow for a smooth transition. July/August 2022

INTERNATIONALTRADE

UPCOMING COURSE DATES

JULY / AUGUST / SEPTEMBER

JULY & AUGUST COURSE DATES 2022

JUL

BASIC IMPORT DOCUMENTATION:

IMPORT DUTY & VAT MANAGEMENT

BASIC EXPORT DOCUMENTATION

(VIRTUAL 2 HOUR)

(FACE TO FACE: 9:30AM-4:30PM)

AUG

JUL

INTRODUCTION TO CUSTOMS PROCEDURES

IMPORT CUSTOMS DECLARATIONS

A MUST IF YOU NEED TO UNDERSTAND THE CHANGES FROM CHIEF TO CDS FROM 30TH SEPTEMBER FOR IMPORTS

(VIRTUAL 2 HOUR)

SEPTEMBER COURSE DATES 2022

SEP

BASIC IMPORT DOCUMENTATION (VIRTUAL 2 HOUR)

20 SEP

WHAT’S NEW? UPDATE ON CUSTOMS & INTERNATIONAL TRADE (VIRTUAL 2 HOUR)

SEP

INCOTERMS® 2020 RULES

OVERVIEW INTERNATIONAL PAYMENTS

(VIRTUAL 2 HOUR)

BASIC EXPORT DOCUMENTATION

QUICK GUIDE TO RULES OF ORIGIN

(VIRTUAL 2 HOUR)

SEP

BESPOKE TRAINING Can’t find the training you are looking for? The Chamber’s dedicated International Trade team may be able to facilitate your training needs and offer Bespoke courses tailored to your companies needs. Thanks to their extensive network of International Trade partners and experts.

Please contact Internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk for more information.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH BEWDLEY

HEREFORD

REDDITCH

BPA Software Limited

The Munitions Business Coffee Lounge

B-Stitch Embroidery & Printing

01432 278626

07815 845527

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BRADLEY GREEN

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Instinctive Solutions Limited EFC Performance Ltd 07525 488 807 www.efcperformance.com

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Pocket Rocket Consultancy 01432 683126

Payton Brown Ltd 01527 872474

SHROPSHIRE Maybe Solutions Ltd 0800 0614214 www.maybetech.com

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FirstLight Trust

Kidderminster Choral Society

Dave The Coach Ltd

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01562 730701

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www.payton-brown.com

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Clear Business Services Ltd 07810 021313

Double Trinity 03303 305624

www.kidderminsterchoralsociety.co.uk

TEWKESBURY Adapt-IT Limited

www.clearbusinessservices.co.uk

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0330 0564079

Juraise (Springs) Ltd

Herefordshire Board Gamers

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07941 98166

WORCESTER

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CANNOCK

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KIDDERMINSTER

The Marketplace Space Limited

Worcester Business Advice 07785 268442

01543 523831

Wyre Forest & South Worcestershire

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www.themaketplace.space

Nightstop & Mediation Service

Ellier Group Ltd

CARDIFF

01562 743111

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RSA Associates Limited 07861 724400

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LEDBURY

www.red-fd.com

CHELTENHAM

The Ledberry 01531 632 676

Target PR

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01242 633100 www.targetgroup.co.uk

DROITWICH Alliance Payroll Services Limited 01905 772007

Customer Service Solutions Group Limited 07912 367676 www.customerservicesolutions.co.uk

V-Ex Virtual Exhibitions Ltd. 01905 917477 www.v-ex.com

Zeal Tax (Worcester) Limited

MALVERN Redbarn Group Ltd T/A Veritherm 01432 663107 www.veritherm.co.uk

www.alliancepayrollservices.co.uk

01905 691308 www.gozeal.co.uk

Capulet Property Services Limited T/A Gold Star Stays 01905 917051

3CT Security Limited

www.goldstarstays.co.uk

01905 955 090

07984 366761

Vanda Szabo Photography

www.emeldagrace.co.uk

www.3ct.co.uk

07557 874810

PERTH

www.vsphotography.co.uk

Emelda Grace Limited

DROITWICH SPA

Capella Associates Limited

Arena Online Ltd

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www.b-stitch.co.uk

07714 695898

Pauline Tarrant Consulting

01386 793981

www.arenaflowers.com

www.paulinetarrant.com

www.capellaassociates.com

July/August 2022

BUSINESSNEWS

CHAMBER MEMBERS INVITE CHAIR TO BE THEIR GUEST

LG HARRIS DONATE £5,000 TO THE NORTON COLLECTION MUSEUM

Josh Guest and Becca Byford invited Chamber Chair Mike Forrester to join them at their Headquarters for a discussion about their business. Guest Homes Ltd was founded in 2018 with 3 apartments in Brighton. The holidays lets and management business grew year on year by taking on properties around England. In 2020 the business expanded with a customer service team and a property manager and they continue to take on new management properties. Guest Homes are now focusing on consolidating their current properties to maximise their potential and ensure all of their clients are making the most money they can from their let. In addition, Josh and Becca have committed to raising the profile of their business locally. They’re maximising their Chamber membership by exhibiting at the recent business Expo and appointing a PR agency to support their growth. The recent visit from Mike Forrester solidified their union with the Chamber and allowed them the opportunity to chat about business and pick Mike’s brains when it comes to expansion of the organisation. Josh says: “It was great to meet Mike, tell him about our business and ask him for advice about its growth. Mike’s unique position and years’ of experience have given us some food for thought and we look forward to making more positive changes to

L-R Chamber Chair Mike Forrester meets with Becca Byford and Josh Guest from Guest Homes Ltd.

support our expansion.” Guest Homes have doubled their turnover since 2018 and now have 85 properties under the belts and employ 7 people, with an additional 3 full-time Virtual Assistants and a team of nationwide subcontractors. Josh continues: “Our aim is to fulfil our clients’ needs and make sure every customer has a happy stay. We welcome a chat from any Chamber member wanting to discuss their business needs with a short or long term lease.” Mike agrees: “I was delighted to be invited to join Becca and Josh at Guest Homes and was really buoyed to hear about their expansion. Their forward-thinking and ability to adapt and diversify has meant they have grown year on year. I encourage Chamber members to take a look at what’s on offer at this expanding business. It really is one to watch.” If your business is looking for flexible corporate lets for their business guests then Guest Homes is a great local choice. For more about Guest Homes please go to: www.guesthomes.co.uk or call 01905 347469.

Local decorating manufacturing company LG Harris have donated £5,000 to the Norton Collection Museum in Bromsgrove to help boost funding for their ongoing renovations after Sajid Javid MP got in touch to see if they could help out. The Norton Collection Museum exists as a result of one man’s passion for collecting. Dennis Norton started collecting in 1949 and has never stopped. Over the years, he has amassed a huge array of items that help tell the history of how we lived in years gone by. Many of the exhibits also help tell the story of the town he made his lifelong home, Bromsgrove in Worcestershire, including LG Harris & Co. Ltd. Chris Wood Managing Director at LG Harris says “we were pleased to have donated towards this very worthy cause and have also opened dialogue about how we can help further - through the donation of tools to help redecorate the museum and offering to canvas for volunteer decorators amongst the team. We have also agreed to share with them any interesting artefacts from the Harris and Hamilton history.

FAUN ZOELLER GAINS SILVER STATUS FROM INVESTORS IN PEOPLE FZUK Ltd are delighted to announce that they have been awarded the silver accreditation from the Investors in People scheme. Investors in People specialise in transforming business performance through people and is known to help businesses grow, develop, and compete ensuring that people always remain at the forefront. Silver status means principles, policies, and practices around supporting people are embedded in every corner of the organisation. This is the first time participating and receiving accreditation, FZUK looks forward to progressing further within the scheme. Simon Hyde, CEO of FZUK, was thrilled with the silver status as he explained, “Our team is the heart of the business and are the key to every success that we achieve. I am so proud of all the team by keeping that family feeling that enables the business to stay grounded. It’s an honour to be awarded this for the first time, but it is also an opportunity to gain experience as it highlights areas, we

should be proud of and like every area for improvement, helping to hold us accountable to our people and our values.” Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People, said: “We’d like to congratulate FAUN-Zoeller UK. Silver accreditation on We invest in people is a remarkable effort for any organisation, and places FZUK in fine company with a host of organisations that understand the value of people.” Silver is a fantastic achievement and something only 15% of the organisations we assess achieve. Stewart Gregory, commercial director at FZUK said “For our team to receive this recognition is a fantastic achievement and I am thrilled by the result. It really underlines our organisations core values. Investing in all our stakeholders, including our staff, clients, suppliers and shareholders, is what we do at FZUK. It is in our DNA.” Catherine Kings, HR commented, “achieving silver IIP status is such an amazing achievement for all of us. Our core values

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

identified by the whole team really are at the heart of everything we do. I am so proud to be part of the team who share ambition and a desire for success. ‘Corporate family’ is one of our core values and describes well what it is like to work at FZUK. Supporting, developing, and looking after our people is of high importance to us; therefore, growing and progressing with the IIP scheme is good for employees and exciting.” FZUK look to have a promising year ahead with more work being done in supporting many of their clients and helping the growth of the business throughout 2022.

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WORCESTERSHIREWORKSWELL

WORCESTERSHIRE WORKS WELL HELD THEIR SECOND WEBINAR ON TUESDAY 10 MAY Worcestershire Works Well, an accreditation scheme which is free to join, supports Worcestershire businesses to improve the health and wellbeing of their employees, was pleased to hold its second webinar, exclusive to Worcestershire Works Well members. Held on Tuesday 10 May, the Worcestershire Works Well webinar focused on key health topics, including suicide prevention in the workplace, as well as supporting parents and professionals with child to parent abuse. The webinar featured two keynote speakers, Mark Billau, Public Health Practitioner, Suicide Prevention and Michelle John, Founding Director of PEGS (Parental Education Growth Support). Michelle John, Founding Director of PEGS, commented: “We were delighted to get the opportunity to speak at the Worcestershire

Works Well webinar, and to share information about PEGS with businesses across the region – as well as highlighting the impact of Child to Parent Abuse.

training and advice for companies wanting to support any staff and service users experiencing CPA.

“We know at least 3% of households are impacted by CPA, and 70% of the parents we work directly with tell us they have either had to reduce their hours or give up work altogether as a result of the abuse they are experiencing.

“We also provide training for frontline professionals to help equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively and empathetically respond when CPA is either suspected or confirmed.”

“That’s why we have partnered with the Department for Work and Pensions to launch our free Employer Covenant (www.pegsupport.co.uk) which provides

Visit www.pegsupport.com or search PEGS Support on social media for more information.

SHARE YOUR STORY! Worcestershire Works Well is still looking for businesses to take part in case studies for the programme and also to help mentor other organisations who are beginning their Worcestershire Works Well journeys. Your case studies can be shared across Worcestershire Works Well’s social media which brings many marketing benefits for your organisation to show the rest of the county how you have focused on wellbeing. If you would like to take part, please contact Dawn Hardman for further

044

information by emailing dawnh@ hwchamber.co.uk. Worcestershire Works Well is an accreditation scheme which is free to join, designed to support businesses to improve the health and wellbeing of their employees. Improved employee health and wellbeing has been shown repeatedly to improve profitability and productivity of businesses. Business can obtain further information on the scheme here www. worcestershireworkswell.co.uk.

July/August 2022

MEMBERBENEFITS

INTRODUCING OUR NEW MONEYCORP AREA REPRESENTATIVE, KRISSY ROGERO "I’ve been at Moneycorp for over 7 years and have extensive knowledge of the business and how we can help with anyone’s payment solutions. I’m a good balance of professional and bubbly which may be one of the reasons why I was appointed the Head of Corporate Partnerships. When I’m not completely engulfed by the world of work, I love a good hike with my dog, eating great food and sipping a well-made Aperol Spritz."

international funding? moneycorp are here to help!

moneycorp have helped more than

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help minimise your currency costs. For more info please visit www. moneycorp.com/HerefordshireWorcestershire-Chamber-of-Commerce or email chamberfx@moneycorp.com.

ACCESS YOUR CHAMBER PRIMARY HEALTH PLAN WITH WESTFIELD HEALTH

In the real world, it’s often difficult to determine who is a well being and who isn’t. Someone may look like they’re coping really well, but the reality could be far different. That’s why Westfield Health have extended their offering from health cash plans and hospital treatment insurance to provide a more holistic approach, taking care of employees in both body and mind. Exclusively available to BCC accredited and affiliated member organisations of all sizes, the Chamber Primary Health Plan starts from just £6.13 per employee, per month and allows staff to claim

money back, up to set limits, for things like sight tests and glasses, dental bills, therapy treatments and consultations. Westfield Health are committed to delivering evidence-based programmes of health and wellbeing, that help your people to be healthier and your business to perform better. Suitable for businesses of all types, sizes and budgets, our workforce solutions

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

encourage healthier behaviours that will empower your people to be the best they can be, through assessment, education and intervention. To find out more contact your Westfield Health Partner Sam Holdaway on 07921 067 858 or email sholdaway@ westfieldhealth.com. further information can be found here www.westfieldhealth.com/chamber.

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LASTWORD

FIVE TRIUMPHANT QUEEN’S AWARD WINNERS FOR WORCESTERSHIRE Worcestershire Winners Announced in the 2022 Queen’s Awards for Enterprise

The winners of this year’s Queen’s Awards for Enterprise were announced on the Queen’s Birthday, 21st April. The high-profile awards honour businesses that have demonstrated excellence in the fields of international trade, innovation, sustainable development and promoting social mobility. In this, the Platinum Jubilee year, five Worcestershire businesses have been awarded the accolade out of a total of 232 businesses nationally. Since they were first created by Royal Warrant in 1965, the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise have become the most prestigious form of recognition a British company can receive and are designed to acknowledge and encourage outstanding achievements demonstrated by UK businesses. Celebrating notable performances from a diverse field of industry sectors, winners share a combination of integrity, passion and excellence in their field. This year’s recipients illustrate this mix perfectly and demonstrate that a successful business can be large or small, established or fledgling. Creative Communications Agency, DRPG, have been awarded a Queen’s Award for sustainable development, one of only 31 businesses nationally, and the first time a media agency has achieved the Queen’s Award for sustainable development. The Hartlebury based agency are proud to have been recognised for their investment in developing positive strategies to encourage new ways of doing business to reduce environmental impact. DRPG CEO, Dale Parmenter comments; “Winning the Queen’s Award for Sustainable Development has already reaped benefits, after three attempts to finally be recognised this has firstly made the team so proud of our achievement and secondly from our clients and our industry, the response has been incredible. Although we have many different sustainability accreditations, the Queen’s Award is the one which stands out and people get excited about globally.” The category of international trade saw two Worcestershire businesses awarded. Firstly, Excool Limited based in Bromsgrove provide unique and energy

046

efficient cooling solutions for some of the largest data centre providers worldwide. Duncan Williams CEO of Excool, comments; “To achieve this so valued award is a tribute to all at Excool who over the years have worked at the very height of their abilities and a recognition to all on the outstanding achievements within all our teams, everyone at Excool has contributed.” Also winning the award for international trade, were Pershore’s Pharma Packaging Systems. Specialising in cost effective and sustainable solutions for the pharmaceutical industry, Pharma Packaging use technology to produce standard and bespoke packaging that is responsive to industry innovations and regulations. Andrew Kennedy, Director of Pharma Packaging Systems Ltd, comments; “We are absolutely delighted to receive the Queens Award for Enterprise, to win an award so integral to what we do is an incredible achievement for our business. Exports have been a major part of our sales since the business inception and so the Queen’s Award for International Trade really is special. This award is also recognition of the hard work of our dedicated team who contribute every day to our innovative solutions. Their determination to provide the most high-tech and reliable solutions has been key to us satisfying our customer requirements worldwide and as such our export success over the past 20 years.” Broadway’s Little Soap Company were one of two Worcestershire based businesses to be awarded a Queen’s Award for innovation. This award recognised the resilience and dedication the company has shown towards ongoing innovation to produce plastic-free products offering countless benefits to both the skin and the planet. Founder of The Little Soap Company, Emma Heathcote-James comments; “It’s wonderful for the team to be acknowledged in this way. There is still so much to do. We have always been mindful of our social and environmental impact as a business. This achievement has made all the hard work worth it and is a constant mission for the team to better ourselves year on year.” Alongside them, Bromsgrove based Proteus Instruments were awarded for their innovation. The company

use the latest technology to deliver a state-of-the-art water monitoring system providing instant and accurate results. Rob Stevens, Managing Director of Proteus comments; “The team at Proteus Instruments are honoured to win the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation. The entire team at RS Hydro and Proteus Instruments are passionate about what they do. The award can help in raising awareness of important issues in helping to monitor our rivers and bathing waters. Only 14% of our rivers meet good ecological status; so, by promoting this awareness and combining it with this innovation, we will not only be able to monitor the quality of our water resources more effectively, but we will also be able to manage them, not just in the UK but globally.” The Queen’s representative, the Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Lt Col Patrick Holcroft LVO OBE, will be visiting the five winning Worcestershire businesses to formally present their award along with an invitation to Buckingham Palace to attend a royal reception later this year. Louise Hewett, Deputy Lieutenant of Worcestershire, who heads up the Queens Awards team in Worcestershire comments;“To achieve five 2022 Queen’s Awards winners in our county is excellent and reflects the diverse and outstanding quality of businesses that continue to emerge and grow in Worcestershire. Huge congratulations to all the winners of the most prestigious business award in the UK.” For further information on the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and to make an application visit www.gov.uk/queensawards-for-enterprise or contact Louise Hewett on louisehewettdl@outlook.com.

July/August 2022

Find your digital voice! Engaging your brand with audiences that matter.

be-everywhere.co.uk | E: info@be-everywhere.co.uk | T: 0191 580 5990

The Queen’s Anniversary Prizes For Higher and Further Education

2021

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS APPRENTICESHIPS Want to grow your own workforce? WCG is the largest provider of apprenticeship training in the West Midlands area, training more than 2500 apprentices each year in a variety of sectors, including Motor Vehicle, Veterinary Nursing and Land-based Engineering.

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Business Direction 68

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