COSTSBUSINESSBusinessDirectionDirectionBusinessDirectionDirection Issue September/October69 2022
ADVANCED TAX PLANNING ENTREPRENEURSFOR Accounts & Taxation Transaction Services Wealth DigitalRecruitmentManagementServicesTransformation ) ) ) ) ) Ballards LLP Chartered Accountants offer a full compliment of services to support you and your business across its entire life cycle. From expert tax advice and accounts compliance to strategic planning and digital transformation. Visit www.ballardsllp.com chartered accountants
ChiefSharonBestBosch.regards,SmithExecutive of Herefordshire ofWorcestershire&ChamberCommerce
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 MARKETINGmarketing@hwchamber.co.ukTEAM 01905 673600 (option 5) EDITORIALmarketing@hwchamber.co.uk&SUBSCRIPTIONS 01905 673 639 PRODUCTIONwww.hwchamber.co.uk/business-direction&DESIGN Distinctive Media Group Ltd, 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle, NE1 6UF ADVERTISINGwww.distinctivegroup.co.uk Angie BusinessSmithDevelopment Manager, Distinctive Media Group Ltd 0191 FEATURESangie.smith@distinctivegroup.co.uk5805472EDITOR Karen Southern
First Word 3 Chamber News 4 Chair’s Report 5 Business News 6 Policy News 11 Business News 14 Skills 18 Business News 19-20 Chamber Training 24-25 Big Interview 26-27 Cover Feature 28-29 Events 32 Two Counties 33 New Members 36-37 Worcestershire Works Well 38 Business News 39 International Trade 40-41 People to do Business With 42 Business News 43 Charity News 45 Movers and Shakers 46 Business News 47-48 Member Benefits 49 Last Word 50
Through our Quarterly Economic Surveys, we are able to recognize and respond to the opinions of businesses, and plan our support accordingly. We continue to adapt our service offering and remain current with the latest guidance, advice and support which we are proud to deliver to our TheMembers.Chamber Business Manifesto 22-23 outlined our promises to deliver support, by sharing best practices displayed by Member businesses and continue to advise on policy changes and trends that arise. We look forward to the continued success of our live Forums and Conferences and delivering regular Bank of England briefings with national economy updates.
September/October
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. 2022 Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
The ability to adapt when faced with unprecedented challenges is what sets businesses apart. Throughout this year, we have seen unbridled dedication of businesses as they continue to power through steep cost inclines, employing new ways of working to help with these pressures. Identifying where the cost increases are occurring within a business is what allows them to plan strategies, anticipate the impact and adjust accordingly.
This October, we are delighted to be welcoming many businesses to our ever-popular Business Expo in association with Hewett Recruitment, providing firms from the two counties with the opportunity to grow their networks and make new business Icontacts.ampleased to introduce this latest edition of Business Direction, keeping you updated with the latest industry news from across the two counties. Shining a light on ‘Business Costs’, this issue is packed full of business news looking at themes such as energy costs, recruitment and retention, cyber-safety and sustainability. Our cover interviews for this edition share the importance of cyber-safety with advice from Hazelton Mountford, boosting your business with Armed Forces skills and the cost of doing business with Worcester
karen.southern@distinctivegroup.co.ukBUSINESSCOSTSBusinessDirectionDirectionBusinessDirectionDirectionIssueSeptember/October2022
03 FIRSTWORD
Our
Patrons are: 26-2728
BUSINESS INTRODUCTIONCOSTS
Rising costs of raw materials, energy, fuel and wages all feed into a rising “cost-of-doing-business” and firms will be affected in different ways. As businesses have found ways to work smarter to navigate through these pressures, opportunities to develop future-proofed systems have arisen.
04 September/October 2022 CHAMBERNEWS
AT THE CHAMBER
Now, 600 Kickstart jobs have been offered supporting young people in the local area to access work skills and experiences. On top of these opportunities, each and every young person who was part of the scheme has been offered additional advice to ensure the longevity of these experiences, and some have even continued into apprenticeships and full-time Overemployment.190local employers have been involved in this scheme.
The scheme, launched by the UK Government in 2020 as part of their Plan for Jobs programme, aims to support young people aged 16-24 on Universal Credit to get into work by providing them with 6 month work placements to boost their experience and training.
Hosted by the amazing Rhys James, the Awards welcomed over 700 guests from businesses across the two counties. The Awards celebrated firms across Herefordshire and Worcestershire and were a fantastic way to raise awareness of local business success. The Chamber would like to thank all 140+ businesses that entered – every entry was of an extremely high quality, making the competition tougher than ever. 15 awards were up for grabs, with the winners of each individual category entered into the final coveted award, Business of the Year. A huge congratulations to all our 2022 award winners.
The lucky winners of the night’s Awards included:BestUse of Technology, sponsored by TechTeam, Heart of Worcestershire College Commitment to the Community, sponsored by ISO Quality Services Ltd, Central Roofing & Building Services Ltd Employer of the Year, sponsored by University of Worcester, Rotherwood Healthcare Excellence in Customer Service, sponsored by NEOPERL, Surf Tech IT Excellence in Innovation, sponsored by Malvern Hills Science Park, Proteus Instruments
The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce were delighted to welcome guests to the Worcester Arena for the Chamber Business Awards 2022, sponsored by Karndean Designflooring.
CELEBRATIONS BUSINESS
Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce have been working with Worcestershire County Council and Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership to deliver over 600 Kickstart jobs since 2020.
Excellence in Professional Services, sponsored by Worcestershire County Council, Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Excellence in Sustainability, sponsored by Business Energy Efficiency Programme, Malvern Panalytical Exporter of the Year, sponsored by Malvern Panalytical, Robert Welch Designs Ltd Family Business of the Year, sponsored by Harrison Clark Rickerbys, Shooting Reels Health & Wellbeing in the Workplace, sponsored by Cargill Protein Europe, ISO Quality Services Ltd High Growth Business of the Year, sponsored by EBC Group, Central Roofing & Building Services Ltd Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by OGL, Neoperl U.K. Ltd
AWARDS 2022!
KICKSTART SCHEME A SUCCESS FOR OVER 600 YOUNG PEOPLE
On the same day I made it to the leaving event for Alison Avery from the Department of International Trade, who many of you will know. I have personally worked with Alison and she is a very skilled operator in the field of international trade. She supported my own business, which became a multi-million pound exporter and won a Queen’s Award.
I would like to open my report by asking you all to take the time to look through the latest Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Manifesto. It gives an excellent snapshot as to what the Chamber has been doing to support Members and highlights the great things happening in the two counties.
05Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce MIKECHAIR’SFORRESTER:REPORT
PEOPLE - Developing talent now and for the future.
PLANET - Boosting a green global economy.
The Board joined colleagues from the West Midlands Chambers for a networking event the night before the conference. Throughout the day, we heard from The Right Honourable Rishi Sunak MP Chancellor and The Right Honourable Rachel Reeves MP, the Shadow Chancellor, among other very notable business leaders. However, I was disappointed to miss the Chamber Awards this year but a long standing, three times rearranged, family holiday could not be moved - I was told. I heard great reports and congratulations to all the finalists and Iwinners.wasdelighted to meet Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England, for a private breakfast with Patron Members at Sixways Stadium. There were insightful comments from Andrew on the causes of the global supply chain crisis, inflation, and labour shortages. Suffice to say, energy costs and inflation may not have peaked Severalyet. attendees also gave their updates and, to be honest, there were not many positives. I think we are all in for a challenging year of cost pressures, labour costs and availability, and a potential economic downturn. Please contact me directly if you think I can help you and your business: www.linkedin.com/in/mike-forrester. Until next time, Mike.
Mike Forrester, Chair
PROGRESS - Seizing new opportunities.
I managed to meet some of our members recently, including Peter Appleton from ISO Quality Services Limited and heard all about their plans for securing more space at their current offices. I also caught up with Judith Ford, CEO at Night Stop. It is such an inspirational organisation, providing emergency and secure accommodation for young people who have become homeless, often at short notice. Please take a look at the website to see the range of services they provide for young people and their families: www.wyreforestnightstop.org.uk
It was the British Chambers of Commerce Annual Global Conference at the end of June with the theme:-
CHAIR’SREPORT
At Hewett Recruitment, like some other local businesses, we have given a one-off “cost of living bonus” to assist our employees through this period. This is a popular method of meeting employees half way, without committing to unsustainable pay rises for years to come.
COST OF LIVING: IMPACT ON RECRUITMENT & RETENTION
Alison Rolf, a Consultant Chartered Legal Executive with over 25 years’ experience, has recently joined the firm from Messrs Davidson Mahon Solicitors in Warwickshire. Alison deals with all aspects of family law including divorce, financial matters, pre and post nuptial agreements, cohabitation and children. She offers a fixed fee initial hour-long appointment by a range of methods (face to face, telephone or virtual) so that you can discuss your case in more detail and decide whether you would like to proceed.
Over the last few years, many companies have had a focus on providing wellbeing benefits and additional more creative perks such as coffee machines or ‘birthday off’ to differentiate their employment offering in a crowded market. However, the cost of living crisis has meant that more than ever, it’s cold hard cash that employees want. We are seeing more candidates looking for a reduced commute to the office due to the cost of fuel. Working from home has been incredibly popular, but as the cost of heating our homes rises and the temperature drops, this cost will need to weigh-in against work-life-balance for many. So individuals who plumped for a remote role with a once-a-week schlep into the office are now rethinking this option and potentially looking for an employer with a local office they can get to easily and cost-effectively.
Silverback Law, a firm of Solicitors based in Redditch, are delighted to announce that they’re now expanding their offer to include family law as one of their services.
Alison is a member of Resolution, a Professional organisation, who advocate dealing with matters as amicably as possible, and can guide you through the Pleaseproceedings.visitthe website www.silverbacklaw.co.uk or alternatively contact Alison direct on 07974 581696.
LOCAL LAW FIRM EXPANDS IT’S OFFERING TO INCLUDE FAMILY LAW
Laura Hewett, Director, Hewett Recruitment
06 September/October 2022 BUSINESSNEWS
The latest Report on Jobs from KPMG and the REC suggested that we may now be past the peak of the post-pandemic hiring spree, but we are not yet seeing an increase in candidate availability. So with demand for talent still out-stripping supply, the cost of living crisis is driving candidate and employee behaviour and businesses are having to react.
on the financial integrity interests of the business.
3. Mere Confidential Information – this is confidential information which is more easily protected. Employees only have a duty to keep mere confidential information, confidential during their employment so you should consider including specific confidentiality clauses in their contracts of employment so the information is protected post-employment too.
4. Trade Secrets – “Need to Know” “For your eyes only!” – the most confidential of confidential information.
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SOLIHULL | BIRMINGHAM | WORCESTER | KIDDERMINSTER | HALESOWEN INFORMATION IS ONE OF A BUSINESS’S GREATEST ASSETS
confidential
That is why it is very important to protect that information. There are some practical steps you ought to take such as password protecting confidential information, restricting access to only those who need to know, and actually marking it as “confidential”. All of these steps practically demonstrate you value the information and are serious about its protection. You would find it very difficult to argue that information should be classified as a Trade Secret if you leave it lying around the office (or server) for anyone to read, copy, access or take.
For you and your business
2. Knowledge and skill – this is information that a person picks up “on the job” which is confidential but its in their head just by virtue of being used. For example an engineer uses a method of repairing a machine that is only known by your business but because they are regularly carrying out your process its in their head and they would naturally take it with them if they left.
The commercial relationship may generate information which needs to be protected, either because a consultant is advising and making recommendations or the research and development is identifying new product or service methodologies, new market data etc. It’s important therefore to also ensure that there are appropriate confidentiality protections in your terms and conditions.
Tel: 0345 20 73 72 8 | info@thursfields.co.uk www.thursfields.co.uk Hannah Clark
The big danger areas arise when that information has to be shared. That is where contractual safeguards can assist. There is merit in having in place a non-disclosure agreement at the point that negotiations begin. It can be hard to evaluate whether a commercial relationship will work without sharing some information.
they
greatest assets.
The timing of the protection can also be crucial. Most confidential information has a shelf life – marketing strategies or pricing information may become obsolete after 12 months. Other information may need to remain confidential forever – the secret recipe for KFC or Coca Cola for example. It’s important that any protections put in place, are in place for a sufficient period to provide the necessary protection. Our Commercial Team can assist you in protecting one of your most valuable assets. For more information contact Hannah Clark on 0345 20 73 72 8, email info@thursfields.co.uk or visit www.thursfields.co.uk.
Knowing how the product is priced, who the suppliers are, who the customers are, how the product or service is created etc. can all be vital to the financial integrity of the Therebusiness.arefour types of information:
1. Public information – this is information that is in the public domain and can be accessed on a non-confidential basis. For example the information about your company that is filed with Companies House – who your shareholders are, who your directors are, your annual accounts. You cannot generally protect this – its already out there for the world to know.
Information is one of a business’s There are lots of reasons to keep certain information and are largely based
EBC Group can help you assess which Unified Communications and Collaboration system would best suit your organisation’s needs and provide assistance with implementing it, from installation and configuration to maintenance and optimisation. Get in touch with us today online, call us on 0121 3680119 or email us at hello@ ebcgroup.co.uk.
UC&C is a collection of Unified Communications (UC) and Collaboration solutions which are brought together and made available to use through one User Interface (UI) in order to improve connectivity and productivity.
UC&C integrates a diverse range of communication tools, including Voice, IP Telephony Calling, Instant Messaging, Desktop Sharing, Presence and Web Conferencing, Audio Conferencing and Video Conferencing which interact together in a virtually seamless way to provide near real-time collaboration. As technology continues to evolve, we’ve entered an era where work is no longer refined to a specific desk, phone, or computer screen. Professionals have the freedom to share their skills and pursue new opportunities across the globe, requiring only the right device, and a cloud connection to perform their role.
Ability to access expertise from anywhere: Due to their cloud-based nature, team collaboration tools mean that you can bring together the best talent from anywhere in the world to contribute to the same project at the same time.
Easier to track projects: Online collaboration tools come with various capabilities that help team members to see the evolution of their projects over time making it much easier to manage a project and ensure that everyone stays on the same page. Easy document management and reporting: Collaboration tools ensure that the same files are all stored in the same place meaning that information doesn’t get lost and everyone working on the same project can access the same information easily and many make reporting easier.
UC&C: The modern way of 0121 3680187 www.ebcgroup.co.uk3680187
With so many employees beginning to work remotely, companies need to find a way to serve users who don’t want be tethered by wires and physical locations.
The result has been an influx of fantastic communication tools, designed for almost every touch point in the average business. The only problem? We’ve innovated so fast that the sheer number of communication tools available is enough to overwhelm any worker or IT team. What are the benefits of UC&C?
UC&C can, however, pose challenges to networks with old infrastructure as it has changed the nature of corporate network workloads. In a network with compute and storage separate, these dynamic workloads can cause congestion and latency. As UC&C and other dynamic workloads have increased, there has been an increase in the adoption of hyperconverged networks to deal with the consequent challenges.
IT Services | Cloud | Security | Telephony | Print & Data The simplicity of one Managed Service Provider for all your technology needs
working TECHADVICE
Combining communication and collaboration tools into one simple interface provides organisations with an array of benefits, including: Higher productivity: Employees in different locations using different devices and mediums can work together in a unified environment. Better performance: Employees can both communicate and collaborate in an instant meaning that they can solve customers’ problems faster, improving the reputation of your business.
Reduced costs: As UC systems operate on the cloud, they allow companies to move away from a Capex model, to an OpEx strategy which involves fewer initial costs.
What are the challenges of UC&C?
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Profitability is a similar concern, 42% expect their profits to increase, this is compared to 50% last quarter (43% v 50% nationally) and 26% of businesses in our region expect profitability to decline. Little encouragement really, but this figure rises to 28% in the national analysis.
Locally in Herefordshire and Worcestershire businesses have reported that their UK Sales have remained relatively constant. Over the last two surveys 45% of businesses reported increased sales whilst 37% had reported falls, just 1% different from last quarter.
So, two things can happen. We can let market forces work through the maelstrom of challenges and barriers, or as is the case, as a Chamber of Commerce we can support businesses to survive and thrive through these unprecedented times.
The Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) has been conducted by the British Chamber of Commerce within its UK network since 1989. Its findings have allowed businesses, their partners, and representative bodies to assess their current position, plan, and benchmark themselves amongst their peers. This last survey was completed by 5700 businesses across the UK, 376 (6.8%) of them from Herefordshire and WhilstWorcestershire.assessing the last two surveys it is clear the research was being completed during “unprecedented times.” Each moment there was a chance of sustained recovery, another factor would become relevant to slow any progress. It’s true that this is still very much the case. Whilst Covid factors may have settled in the UK, and the transport of goods across our oceans may have calmed, the effects of The Ukraine War, and the global supply issues the war has created along with tough health measures in China, have given businesses huge challenges in fulfilling production schedules and orders. Supply issues drive prices. None more so than in energy prices and the inflationary increase in many vital raw materials is a huge concern.
I think this can be seen as a positive indicator that our local economy is fighting its corner in the UK marketplace. Sales might be vital for any business, but cashflow and profitability drive to survival and growth are also important. The indications are concerning. The last three quarters have indicated pressures on cash flow in businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. In this survey, 24% reported their cashflow had worsened in the last three months.
The survey indicates the considerable financial stress that businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are experiencing. The level of inflationary pressure has reached record levels and to some extent, based on recent times, we are in uncharted territory. It is evident that where previously businesses were showing cautious optimism, they are now reporting concern and a number of factors have presented themselves in this report and will be detailed later.
011Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce POLICYNEWS
Whether it is forums to share best practice, training courses to upskill and retain your team, communication channels to highlight opportunity, our international trade team helping businesses with their certificates and documents, or events and expo’s to make connections you can be sure our team are ready to help. and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce were asked to complete the latest Quarterly Economic Survey, outlining business performance and confidence in the period between mid-March and mid-May 2022.
Equally, 14% of businesses reported a fall in sales. It’s useful to compare this situation with the British Chamber of Commerce’s data. Nationally, 41% reported increased sales, and 18% recorded a fall in sales.
012 September/October 2022
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“I’m really looking forward to seeing the technology they use with the watering, how they deal with pests and diseases, their approaches and how it differs from here in the UK.” Mark Diggines, trainer/assessor in horticulture at Pershore College, added: “We have historically had success in getting at least one student placed on this programme – but to have three this year is “Wephenomenal.areproud of their achievements and look forward to hearing about all the new knowledge they have gained when they Toreturn.”findout more about horticulture apprenticeships at Pershore College visit www.wcg.ac.uk/study
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Abigail Green works for The Bransford Webbs Plant Company. She decided to leave a career in the pub industry behind and pursue a career in horticulture during one of the lockdowns. “It’s been an amazing first year experience with Bransford Webbs and Pershore college, and this is a great way to top it off,” she said.
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A trio of Crop Technician Level 3 students have won the International Plant Propagation Society (IPPS) 6-pack award – which gives six ‘new to the industry’ horticulturists the chance to attend the IPPS European Region Annual Conference in Zwischenahn in October. The selected students who have all just completed their first year of study are Tom McDonald, 24 from Evesham, Donné Perauld, 39 from South Africa but living in Farnborough, and Abigail Green, 27 from AtWorcester.thethree-day conference, the students will get the chance to speak with growers from across the continent, tour nurseries in Germany and assist the conference organisers on delivering the Tomevent.McDonald, who works for New Leaf Plants in Evesham alongside his studies, said: “I’m really looking forward to speaking with growers and finding out how other countries manage their crops. To go from working as a seasonal staff member at New Leaf, to a full-time apprentice and now be selected to attend this conference is amazing.”
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Three apprentices at Pershore College have won a major horticulture award and will now get the chance to attend one the sectors’ most prestigious conferences in Germany. rofessio vices to peopl e wh o p redomina ntly ru th ei r ow n bu sines s del i vere d by peopl e wh o under stand s hare th bition s pas sio itme bu sines goa s d with It wh at make busines s haineswatts atio
AWARD-WINNING SUCCESS FOR PERSHORE HORTICULTURE STUDENTS
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We Are The Missing Link will be at Business Expo on Thursday 13th October, as exhibitors and sponsors of the networking breakfast. See you there.
is Business
a bright, stand-out-from-the-crowd, professional website. • an easily navigable and reliable e-commerce store. • and fully functioning, CRM/ERP back-office support systems. • all working in synergy and realising your business goals. We are an established, family-run business in Herefordshire, offering to advise, build, optimize, host and develop your online presence … and everything required to support it … from the customer journey to cyber-security protection. www.wearethemissinglink.com WEBSITE DESIGN & BUILD • MOBILE DEVELOPMENT • ERP MANAGEMENT • SEO & ANALYTICS • E-COMMERCE WEB SOLUTIONS • SUPPORT & HOSTING connectinallelementsofyouronlinebusiness
.indd 1 14/06/2022 13:00 013
Ensuring that all of your systems are integrated, working harmoniously, robust, secure and ready for change is crucial. If your online shop fails to add the correct shipping costs, or your website isn’t capable of showcasing newly introduced sub brands, then it’s going to cost time and money to put right, move on and Herefordshire-basedcompete.
IT’S NOT INVISIBLE
Magazine
What you want Direction issue 68 185mm wide x 116mm deep Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
We Are The Missing Link is seeing an increasing demand for a highly specialised service that can include website design and build, system integration, development, maintenance and protection of their clients online presence. Director Trudy Macklin explains; “We all seek growth, but at the same time, have to be aware of operating and profit margins. Profits usually increase when costs are reduced, or at least kept low by a business that is careful, efficient and “Weforward-thinking.AreTheMissing Link offers a consultancy approach that regularly highlights where clients can save money or avoid unnecessary expense in the long term. This is as much down to highlighting the consequences of poor decisions and omissions as it is to providing a comprehensive quote up front. “Much of what we can create, manage and develop might be seen as ‘back-office support’ or ‘built-in’; but it is no less important because it is invisible. Indeed, it is this silent integration that makes it all the more crucial that everything works perfectly enabling your business to grow and grow well.”
The way we do business has changed so much in less than a generation. Who remembers waiting impatiently for the ink to dry on a fax, before walking to the right department with this latest sales order or enquiry, in one hand … and the days post in the other?
Much of what we do now, from stock-taking to employment references, from repeat orders to client records is effectively invisible. And yet, every element of a business’s activities has a time factor, or a need for resource or space, or it calls upon skills; which means, it all still has a cost.
Farr, HR and Facilities Director who heads the health and wellbeing programme comments: “As a family business with strong people-oriented values, we work hard to create a working environment geared towards creating happy and healthy employees. For the past few years, I have been heading up the wellbeing within the company, from achieving Worcestershire Works Well Accreditations, working with our Mental Health Nurse, improving staff benefits, supporting staff through the pandemic, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and most recently creating company Wellbeing Promises to our staff. Winning the Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace Award at the Chamber Awards was a culmination of all the above, linked with the hard work and support from the whole team, from Director level downwards. It was wonderful to be recognised for the work that we have been doing and to share this with the wider business community. Our team at ISO QSL are amazing and we all feel incredibly proud – especially Thisme!“ is the second time the firm has been recognised for their health and wellbeing initiatives, having won the Worcestershire Works Well Outstanding Achievement Award back in 2019. This latest win comes less than a week after the firm were also recognised at the Worcestershire Social Media Awards. Here they won Best Social Media Campaign by a Business for their annual charity campaign, Bingo Box which helps support Worcester Foodbank over the Christmas period. In addition, they were Highly Commended for Best Use of LinkedIn by a Business and received silver in Best Use of Twitter by a Business. Their Office Mascot Harry also received a special recognition, winning silver in the Social Media Personality of the Year (non-human) category.
The whole team were so overwhelmed as they all work so hard to ensure we give our clients the best possible service”.
& CO WINS SERVICES’PROFESSIONAL‘EXCELLENCEAWARDCHAMBERFORINAWARD WINNING WEEK FOR ISO QSL
LEADING TRAINING PROVIDER RECOGNISED BY CITY AND GUILDS
Duncan adds “We are making strides forward in the insurance industry, listening to our clients and evolving every aspect of our organisation to provide a first-class service. I couldn’t be prouder of my team to win an award for Excellence in Professional Service and I would like to thank the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce for their continued support – thank you!”.
Highly SurroundedProfessionalforBusinessCommerceChamberWorcestershireHerefordshireacelebrateSutcliffeinsuranceWorcesteracclaimedCitybroker&Co,winningprestigious&ofAward‘ExcellenceinServices’.byover700
The passion for supporting businesses at all levels with risk management and insurance needs, is clear to see at Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Brokers. Their expansion programme is a success story and is to continue well into 2023, with further announcements planned for the autumn.
BUSINESSNEWS
SUTCLIFFE
For more information about Sutcliffe & Co winning a Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Award, contact the Sutcliffe Head Office on 01905 21681 or alternatively email enquiries@sutcliffeinsurance.co.uk.
HWGTA, an Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ provider of Apprenticeships and short courses has worked across the two counties of Herefordshire and Worcestershire for more than 50 years, dedicated to providing training and upskilling opportunities to both apprentices and non-apprentices. Employers and individuals are encouraged to read more here - www.hwgta.org.
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Group Training Association (HWGTA) received an “Excellence in EPA delivery” Award last month from City and Guilds and ILM in response to the outstanding results that apprentices are achieving in their End Point Assessment (EPA) tests.
HWGTA’s Apprenticeships in Leadership, Management and Engineering are assessed by City and Guilds (who also own the brand ILM) and many are achieving a final grade of Distinction. Nigel Morgan, CEO of HWGTA commented that ‘seeing so many apprentices achieve the highest grade possible is recognition on the high levels of support from our employer partners and HWGTA delivery teams, as well as lots of hard work from the apprentices themselves’.
As a fourth generation insurance broker, both their Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Team and their Mann Broadbent Division for sports, dance and leisure insurance, are going from strength to strength, building on a foundation of providing an excellent service.
The Sutcliffe & Co Team receiving their award at Worcester Arena © Official Photographer F8 Creates
014 September/October 2022
business leaders at the Worcester Arena at a black-tie awards ceremony on 7th July 2022, the Sutcliffe team proudly lifted the award for excellence, demonstrating their commitment to providing a ‘Personal service in a commercial world’.
ISO Quality Services Ltd are celebrating another successful night at the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber Business Awards after walking away with Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace 2022. The Award now sits proudly next to their previous wins: Family Business of the Year 2021, Excellence in Professional Services 2019, and Excellence in Customer Service Debbie2018.
Duncan Sutcliffe, Managing Director says, “When they read our name out as the winners of the ‘Excellence in Professional Services’ I just couldn’t quite believe it. It was such a magical moment to remember.
015Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Call us on 01905 828800 EDWARDS MAZDA, 19 Main Road, Kempsey, Worcester WR5 3PAwww.edwards-mazda.co.ukWith excellent whole life costs, strong residual values across a range of award-winning vehicles, Mazda delivers the perfect combination of class-leading e ciency and excellent driving dynamics, o ering fleet managers, business owners and company car users with solutions to meet their fleet and driving needs. YOUR PERFECT BUSINESS PARTNER EDWARDS MAZDA ALL-NEW MAZDA CX-60 DRIVE TOGETHER BOX OFFICE 01432 340555 courtyard.org.uk In partnership with HOST CHRISTMASYOUR PARTY AT THE COURTYARD’S CHASE LOUNGE Celebrate the festive season in style at The Courtyard Hereford! Looking for somewhere to host your own private Christmas Party for 30+ people? Whether an o ce party or a big group of friends, we can help you celebrate the festive season in style. Enjoy a selection of Festive Canapés on arrival, a slap-up Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and delicious desserts, plus your own private bar! 3 courses – £32pp 3 courses plus a glass of fizz £38pp Enquiries to CHASEATCHRISTMASfoodanddrink@courtyard.org.ukPARTYTHECOURTYARD’SLOUNGE Christmas party hire ad.indd 1 05/08/2022 14:49:26
016 September/October 2022 KEEPING YOU & YOUR BUSINESS CONNECTED WITH HR & EMPLOYMENT LAW Do you struggle to keep up with the legalities and requirements of running a business, or worry about what is around the corner with your employees? We are looking to help you! Join Clover HR, an established and leading HR Consultancy based in Worcestershire who are providing professionals like yourself a FREE and informative seminar where you can keep your foot in the HR door and feel confident whilst running your Teamedbusiness.up with Carbon Law Partners as part of the panel of experts, you can expect networking opportunities, Q&A sessions and talks from some of our leading professionals. Don’t miss out - Reserve your tickets today! FREE SEMINAR TICKETS LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE Date: Thursday 20th October 2022 Time: 9am-12pm Venue: Worcester Warriors, Sixways Stadium, Worcester WR3 8ZE (Duckworth WWW.CLOVERHR.CO.UK/CLOVER-CONNECTIONS/Suite) wccc.co.uk/christmas
A Herefordshire transport company which started with just two trucks, helping local producers to take their goods to market, is marking half a century in business.
SAFARIVENUES.CO.UK OF CORPORATE ENTERTAINING AT WEST MIDLAND SAFARI PARKDISCOVER THE WILD SIDE CONFERENCES & MEETINGS, CORPORATE FUN DAYS, BANQUETING & AWARDS DINNERS
Clive Brooks, Managing Director, said that without the support from its customers and dedication from its colleagues ABE could not have got to where the business is today.
ABE Ledbury, a Palletline Logistics company, today employs a 75-strong workforce and operates 50 vehicles and 60 trailers, serving customers across Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Powys, Gloucestershire and Shropshire.
“There are no contracts between ourselves and our customers so there is no requirement for anyone to offer us repeat “Thisbusiness.”isagreat motivation for our team. They know we always have to give our very best from the first phone call with the customer through to the final delivery.”
Following a night trunking and loading operation you can expect to see their vehicles in every town every day. abe-ledbury.co.uk
ABE CELEBRATES
017Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
The team at ABE Ledbury prides itself on its high levels of service. Such a consistently high performance earned the company the Small Business of the Year title in the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber Awards. It was also shortlisted for the Customer Service Award. ABE are also finalists in the Motor Transport Awards for Operational Excellence taking place in the Autumn. Demonstrating ABE’s long-term commitment to the area the company recently purchased it’s Ledbury site which it had leased for the past twenty years.
Farms, micro-breweries, small cottage industries and artisan bakeries all sit on ABE’s client portfolio alongside larger, well-known names across many sectors. Another major part of ABE’s business is delivering goods from around the country to end-users within the two counties.
50 YEARS OF SUCCESS
Kidderminster College recently held their first Talent Spot event to help local employers meet our full-time students looking to progress onto Heldapprenticeships.overtwodays at the College, local employers were able to discuss their current apprenticeship vacancies with a range of students from a selection of our full-time courses. Discussions were had around the recruitment process, interview tips, job security and promotion opportunities after completing an Andrewapprenticeship.Cahill,Managing Director of Mobileworxs, said that this is “just the sort of event to connect the college with potential employers”. Stay tuned to see more events from Kidderminster College and The Point Business Centre at Kidderminster College to help local employers and the local community connect with each other.
Theemployers.newcourse is being delivered by Warwickshire College and University Centre (WCUC) and is the only degree-level qualification currently being delivered in Malvern.
The college group launched the degree in response to the economic requirements of the Malvern district identified by the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (WLEP) and it has already received 11 applications ahead of the upcoming academic year. The degree is being offered full-time and part-time, with other options including the foundation degree and top-up degree also receiving significant interest from Lastapplicants.year,WCG became the first college in the UK to be granted Bachelor degree awarding powers by the Office for Students, alongside the Foundation degree awarding powers already in place.
“To have received the amount of applications we have for the first year is tremendously encouraging. We’re proud to be running the only degree-level course in Malvern and we understand it may be the first degree course ever to be run directly from the town.
“There has also been high-demand for the Computer Networks and Cybersecurity course at two of our other colleges, which is a clear indicator that young people are considering the sector as a viable future career choice.
KIDDERMINSTER COLLEGE HOLDS ITS FIRST TALENT SPOT EVENT
Applications are still open to study Computer Networks and Cybersecurity BSc (Hons) at Malvern Hills Centre for Digital & Cyber Technology. Visit www.wcg.ac.uk/study for more information.
The BSc (Hons) in Computer Networks and Cybersecurity is the first degree course to be launched by college group WCG at Malvern Hills Centre for Digital & Cyber Technology. The centre is located on Malvern Hills Science Park alongside some of the region’s and country’s top cyber industry
“Our course delivery at Malvern Hills Centre for Digital & Cyber Technology has been carefully selected to support the priority skills for businesses in the Wychavon District.” The state-of-the-art equipment installed at Malvern Hills Centre for Digital & Cyber Technology is the latest as specified by Cisco to study towards the CCNA v7 Edqualification.Shuker,HE Computing Subject Lead, added: “Malvern Hills Science Park is the ideal location to run this course from, as it has an established reputation nationally in the computer network and cyber-security “Theresector. is a growing need for experts in this sector of the economy and a lack of skilled individuals to fill positions – and that includes here in Malvern and the wider “Theregion.new course meets the requirements of employers and will prepare students for working in a sector which is constantly growing and developing.”
DEGREE LAUNCHES IN MALVERN TO STRENGTHEN TOWN AS NATIONAL HUB OF CYBERSECURITYSKILLSAnewdegree course has launched in Malvern to enhance the town’s status as a national hub of cybersecurity.
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Steve Taylor, Dean of Higher Education at WCUC, said: “We have launched this degree as a strategic response to the economic needs in Malvern and it will contribute to the already flourishing cybersecurity hub in the town.
James Gentle from ActionCOACH said: “We wanted to ensure that the entrepreneurial winners had not only the cash injection they needed but also the support, direction and focus to ensure their success.”
THE AGE OF INSURANCEWORLDCLAIMATHEOVERTAKINGISCYBER-ATTACKTHEFASTFIREASREASONTOINTHEOF
DENCOACHWESTACTIONCOACHHERTSTODACORUM’SWINNERS
019Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Sponsored by local businesses, the scheme is aimed at individuals and businesses with a great business idea who are keen to expand their business in Dacorum, or require funds to adapt their business to better survive the post COVID
Darryll Thomas
With cyber criminals fast becoming more adept at targeting their prey and utilising ransomware to gain your data, the team at Hazleton Mountford have seen a significant increase in claims – that has now overtaken fire as their most requested claim.
Shortlistedenvironment.contestants will present to the dragons, and the winners will receive £1000 at the awards lunch on 15/07/2022 at Little Hay Golf Club.
There a few weeks left of our summer and so far it has seen record-breaking temperatures – with wall-to-wall sunshine set to continue in pockets into September. In the workplace, this meant employers having to take care of their staff. Many have instructed workers not to travel to the office at times, whilst others have taken steps to make sure air conditioning is in place to keep temperatures at a good level. We have also seen good examples of employers making changes to their dress code or introducing summer workwear for customer-facing staff. Many of these employers have rightly undertaken risk assessments, and others have called for legal advice as they needed proper professional guidance before communicating with staff, including vulnerable workers. Whatever steps you take, this summer has put employee protection under the spotlight more than ever. The rule of thumb for HR teams is to be on top of the policies and if in doubt, take advice to avoid any potential pitfalls.
For more information, readers can email Darryll Thomas at mfg Solicitors through, darryll.thomas@mfgsolicitors.com.
Simeon and the team at Hazelton Mountford supported the client in, advising Cyber cover in the first instance, attending technical claims meetings and working with the loss adjustor to ensure the policy reacts as it should do. Jess Price, Account Executive, explains: “People often say to us that their data is safe as it’s in ‘the cloud’ and they have firewalls and other mitigations BUT when you think about keeping your home safe you not only have locks on doors and windows, alarms and other measures, yet you still insure your property and its contents. We don’t seem to look at data in the same way, and perhaps we However,should?” it’s estimated that the attack cost the business over £200k. Simeon concludes: “Don’t waste any time in mitigating against a cyber-attack. It’s businesses like yours that can suffer greatly if you don’t insure against it.” Please check out our latest news for updates about cyber security fundamentals, call Simeon on 01905 611951 for a chat or email: simeon@hazeltonmountford.co.uk for more information about how Hazelton Mountford can help you.
RISING TEMPERATURES OUTSIDE AND INSIDE THE
ActionCOACH West Herts is supporting this great initiative and has decided to provide complimentary group coaching to all of the winners who receive the grant.
Simeon Chapman, Director at the local brokerage firm, has learnt a great deal from a recent ‘brute force attack’ that a client has had to manage.
Dacorum’s Den is the local version of the popular TV program Dragon’s Den and is sponsored by local businesses. Shortlisted applicants are invited to put their business ideas before a panel of judges led by Mike Penning MP who will hear their ideas and decide who to award the grant to.
WORKPLACEBUSINESSNEWS
On Tuesday, June 7, creative communications group DRPG published its latest ESG Charter review, compiled of the ongoing efforts, advancements and achievements in supporting the environment and local communities.
To read the Charter visit: drpgroup.com/resources CAN TACKLE RISING COST OF
In order to cope with these dramatic cost increases, firms need to get a grip on their expenditure. Unexpected bills are the last thing they need in this current climate – and in particular energy bills are a significant worry for a lot of bosses.
020 September/October 2022
Formally known as the CSR Charter, the original publication in 2020 gave a strong foundation, with the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals sitting at the heart of everything it does. In 2021, DRPG published its first annual Charter Review, reported on its progress and, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, was able to take huge strides. In May 2021, the Earl of Wessex visited the DRPG studio complex in Hartlebury to see for himself the work the team has been undergoing for sustainability.
But there’s another crisis, similar to the struggle households are going through, which is dramatically hitting businesses, and that’s the ‘cost of doing business’ crisis. Firms across the country are being confronted by rapidly rising costs of vital raw materials, fuel, wages and, of course, Manyenergy.businesses simply don’t have either the spare income, or the spare savings, to manage such instant and dramatic increases. WHAT’S CAUSED THIS?
DRPG publishes ESG Charter, highlighting the advancements on the business’ commitments to the triple bottom line of people, planet and profit.
DOING BUSINESSSUSTAINABILITYBUSINESSMATTERS:DRPG’SLATESTCHARTERRELEASENEWSWe’reallnowfamiliarwiththecostoflivingcrisis–howhouseholdsarestrugglingtokeepupwithbillsandaffordtherapidlyrisingcostoffood,fuelandotheressentials.
Although this charter reaffirms the company’s commitment, sustainability has remained at the heart of the business for over 15 years and DRPG is set to continue with more goals for the future. The group has been working hard to become a certified B Corp and is ready to submit its B Impact Assessment for verification. Auditor availability permitting, it hopes to achieve certification by autumn of this year.
A POSITIVE STEP FOR BUSINESSES
HOW FIRMS
Creative communications group
Integrity Manager, Andrew Davies who leads the sustainability team at DRPG and is responsible for the updated charter, says, “The need for the review is to ensure the actions we’re taking are tangible and measured to track longer-term progress. Our industry is constantly shifting, and this year has been no exception to the rule of change, with the major return of live events and impacts of the associated travel. I have no doubt that there will be valuable lessons and re-alignments of our sustainable efforts in 2023, as well.
THE
There’s some good news though –installing a smart meter is a positive step in taking control of business outgoings. Once installed, energy readings will be sent directly to the supplier, bringing an end to estimated bills. That means that businesses will only pay for what they use – and some energy suppliers may also offer an in-home display screen, to show exactly how much energy is being used. A handy way to bring an end to nasty shocks at the end of the Firmsmonth!with 10 employees or less could be eligible for a smart meter. To find out more please visit smart meters. You can also contact your energy supplier or broker.
“The most substantial development to be noted this year is the group’s adoption of the ‘Three P’s’ or ‘People, Planet and Profit’. Looking at sustainability as an all-encompassing umbrella over the business really allows the team to focus on creating a sustainable future with the ‘Triple Bottom Line’ becoming our roadmap and business plan.
The current price inflation is one of many impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, which interrupted supply chains, clogged manufacturing, and created the global delays that are being seen years later. This has been worsened by worldwide issues such as the conflict in Ukraine, and the continuing Covid-19 lockdowns in China, which have also increased prices. Battered businesses now face a stark choice – whether to pass on the increases to their customers, or to try and absorb these new expenses to keep prices down.
021Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 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 To Let New and Refurbished Industrial ConvenientPleasantUnitsandLocation Wilden Industrial Estates Wilden lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 9JY enquiries@wildenestates.co.ukwww.wildenestates.co.uk For enquiries please call 01384 569556 or 01299 822731
A PASSION FOR PEOPLE
Businesses take time to build up. It can take years of hard work to get to a stage where you’re happy with everything you put in - and pleased with the results coming out the other side. You may run your business with your spouse. Many businesses thrive on the ‘family-run’ aspect – from corner shops to SME’s and beyond. But what happens to your business when a marriage breaks down? They are a prominent feature in most divorce matters; and knowing how to deal with this part of the divorce effectively will allow you time to focus on other matters through the process. There are a number of steps you can take to ‘divorceproof’ your business, such as articles of association, which can require shares in a company to be ‘bought back’ by the company in the event of divorce, and phantom agreements, which can be put in place prior to a marriage to agree ‘phantom’ shares that may revert to the business in the event of divorce. Going through a divorce is a sensitive and overwhelming matter, especially when costs come into conversation. Taking the right steps can help to ease the financial burden, however.
Protecting your business and avoiding a costly divorce
Anita Hennessey of our Family Law team in Worcester offers her five top tips for clients. From pre- and post-nuptial agreements to voluntary negotiations, she explains the best ways to avoid an expensive divorce -something which is good not only for you, but also the future of your business.
Anita Partner,HennesseyFamilyLawT:M:E: 01905 744 536 07715 060 ahennessey@hcrlaw.com340
In circumstances where it would not be appropriate to consider mediation, court proceedings do not have to be the answer!
Preserving family relationships and saving costs where possible is key, so using litigation should be the last resort. We will always try and negotiate with your spouse’s lawyers in the first instance with voluntary exchange of financial information.
If you find yourself in an acrimonious situation, ensure that you find the right lawyer for you. Family law is extremely personal, and you need a trusted lawyer who can work with you to achieve the right settlement in the most cost-effective manner.
Consider a pre- or post-nuptial agreement
One of the best ways to avoid high costs, court proceedings and uncertainty in terms of financial settlement upon divorce is to enter into a pre- or post-nuptial agreement. Recent case law means that the court are upholding pre- and post-nuptial agreements that are properly drafted and advised upon by solicitors. Some may think this is rather unromantic, but it is important to remember that these agreements do not come into play unless you and your spouse separate. Therefore, if you remain in a happy marriage there will be no change in how you choose to deal with your finances. We insure against many risks in life, and with more than one in three marriages ending in divorce, it is sensible to insure against the risk of marital breakdown, which can be one of the most expensive life events.
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For further information, please contact Anita Hennessey.
In a relationship that does not involve allegations of domestic abuse and where there is not a controlling party, it can be extremely cost-effective to consider mediation. This is where a trained mediator will try and assist you with reaching financial settlement; the costs savings are far reaching. Consider mediation Go collaborative Where you wish to reach an amicable settlement, but do not feel confident in doing so without a lawyer, finding a collaborative lawyer may be a good middle ground. There are many locally trained family lawyers who can work Voluntary negotiations If all else fails, find a good family lawyer collaboratively with your spouse’s lawyer to achieve an out of court settlement.
CHAMBERTRAINING
Training courses, and bespoke solutions are delivered to the highest standards by professional and highly qualified trainers and consultants, and the Chamber Training Team are renowned for going the extra mile to ensure all clients and delegates receive first class service. Chamber Business Training has an enviable portfolio of clients ranging from small to medium enterprises, to larger multi-nationals, and our flexible approach makes us a first-choice training provider for many local firms.
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Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce deliver multiple training courses every week that any business can take advantage of, and Members can benefit from discounted rates to help keep business costs low.
With a range of courses on offer including any type of training, coaching or consultancy, businesses can book onto many different training courses to suit any need. Whether you are looking for a one-off course to solve an immediate skills gap, or a longer-term training provider to deliver a series of training solutions, the Chamber can help you to develop your Allteams.Chamber
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.
INTERNAL AUDITOR TRAINING Wednesday 5 October | 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester INTERMEDIATE MICROSOFT EXCEL Wednesday 12 October | 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Hereford
TRAINING COURSES TO SUIT ANY BUSINESS NEED
BUSINESSES CAN BOOK THEIR TEAMS ONTO TRAINING COURSES IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER SUCH AS: EFFECTIVE TIME MANAGEMENT Wednesday 14 September | 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Hereford MENTORING IN THE WORKPLACE Tuesday 22 September | 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester
SEPTEMBER DATES 2022 SEPTEMBER 2022 2022
Members £200+VAT Non-members
CHAMBERTRAINING
£160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester IOSH Working Safely Monday 10
£160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester Excel Masterclass Thursday 29 - 9.00am-3.45pm £200+VAT Members £250+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester Internal Auditor Training Wednesday 5
DATES
9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester An Introduction to Digital Marketing and PR Tuesday 11 - 9.00am-11.00am FREE for Members £1100+VAT Non-members Location: Online Managing People in the Team Tuesday 11 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester Intermediate Microsoft Excel Wednesday 12 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Hereford Intermediate Microsoft Excel Tuesday 18 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Online An Introduction to Finance for the Non-financial Manager Wednesday 19 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Hereford Introduction to Project Management Wednesday 19 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Online Mental Health First Aid (1 day) Thursday 20 - 9.00am-4.00pm £200+VAT Members £250+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester
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.
Members £200+VAT
Members £200+VAT
OCTOBER DATES
£90+VAT Members £110+VAT Non-members Location: Online Employment Law Update Wednesday 28
025Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
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.
OCTOBER DATES 2022 Role of the Team Leader Wednesday 7 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester Introduction to Microsoft Excel Thursday 8 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Hereford Effective Time Management Wednesday 14 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members Location: Hereford Fire Marshal Training Wednesday 14 - 9.00am-4.00pm £90+VAT Members £110+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester Manual Handling Training Tuesday 20 - 9.00am-4.00pm £90+VAT Members £110+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester Mentoring in the Workplace Tuesday 22 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester Managing People in the Team Monday 26 - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Non-members Location: Hereford Assertiveness & Confidence at Work Tuesday 27 9.00am-4.00pmSeptember £160+VAT Location: Online Canva - Simple and effective designs for digital marketing Tuesday 27 - 9.00am-12.30pm - 10.00am-3.00pm - 9.00am-4.00pm -
MAINTAINING GREEN MOMENTUM
Our research teams have been really encouraged by our hybrid field trial results, where a small heat pump is added to a gas or oil boiler system. The heat pump covers basic space heating requirements, and the boiler kicks in if temperatures fall below zero, or for a quick heat or hot water boost. It leads to a dramatic drop in carbon emissions, plus consumers get used to not relying solely upon gas or oil for their heating.
Carl explains, “Clarity is needed around the government’s 10-point plan for its green industrial revolution. We’ve very conscious that some of our current technologies look set to be banned by the end of this decade or early in the next one.
“The new site will take a couple of years to come online so Worcester Bosch won’t start getting supplies until the end of 2023, but it is a long-term investment.
“Well, I can confirm that as a direct consequence of our supply issues, Bosch is building a new semiconductor factory in Germany. The Group is one of the biggest suppliers of electronic components to the automotive industry, and it simply can’t suffer this type of disruption again.
Globalisation and Just In Time have been industry buzzwords for many years, but their methodologies aren’t faring well in such exceptional headwinds. Does Carl see a shift in strategy?
The current economic climate is one of the most challenging times of my career, says Carl Arntzen, CEO of Worcester Bosch.
“Yes, business is a real challenge at the moment,” Carl concedes. “Like every other company we’ve suffered a huge impact from ongoing supply constraints, shortages of raw materials, and price “Ourincreases.issues are mainly linked to supply, but the semiconductor electronics shortage is the origin of our problems if we drill down to the root cause. “Bosch is big enough and ugly enough to compete on the global supply chain market; however, the problem doesn’t actually lie with our built-in electronics systems. Our sub-suppliers are struggling to get parts to make sub-components, so we are doing a lot of spot buying on the open market to help them complete the part on our behalf!” Carl adds, “Our sales volumes will be severely affected this year because of these supply issues, and profitability will take a hit from increased running costs. Worcester Bosch will still make a profit, but dramatically reduced from our traditional standpoint. “We are very lucky to be part of the global Bosch Group, which is self-financing overall, but our financial performance needs to recover to continue investing and innovating in the future.”
At the moment, Just In Time simply isn’t working and in fact, we are carrying inventory – a dirty word in our business!” he says wryly.
Like every other business leader, Carl had hoped the economic turmoil would have settled by now, but extraordinary demand is still rocking the boat. “It looks like these issues will run over into 2023, so we continue to plan ahead. Demand has started to drop off a little bit, which will help our supply chain recover. But that in turn will present other challenges for us as a business.”
“The current climate presents a real challenge to traditional thinking around global supply chains, not only in electronics but in many other areas too.
026 September/October 2022 BIG INTERVIEW
The political vacuum at the centre of UK government also presents a massive headache for businesses, not least Worcester Bosch.
IT’S TIME FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO ACT
IS GLOBALISATION WORKING?
It’s been a year since Business Direction last spoke to Carl. At the time his focus was on innovation and sustainability, as the company looked ahead to a new post-pandemic era of business. Today however, the company – like many others - faces a double whammy of uncertainty caused by the lingering effects of lockdown and the cost-of-living crisis. At the time of writing, the new Prime Minister had yet to be announced. Carl echoes the sentiment of every business in the country when he says it’s time for the new government to provide desperately needed positive leadership in these unprecedented times.
Carl Arntzen, CEO of Worcester Bosch
“Our research teams have been really encouraged by our hybrid field trial results, where a small heat pump is added to a gas or oil boiler system. The heat pump covers basic space heating requirements, and the boiler kicks in if temperatures fall below zero, or for a quick heat or hot water boost. It leads to a dramatic drop in carbon emissions, plus consumers get used to not relying solely upon gas or oil for their heating.”
“Newquickly.technologies like heat pumps don’t work like that. They are a great technology but can’t react instantly to a sudden change in temperature. We need to make sure the right heating system and technology is applied to the right house!”
“If I got the chance to meet the new Prime Minister, I would simply say, ‘We need you to make decisions now. Decarbonisation and climate change isn’t going away. These issues need urgent resolution. Let’s get on with it!”
“So we are lobbying parliament to make key decisions on certain heating technologies. It makes the government’s inward-looking focus over the past months all the more Hydrogen-readyfrustrating.”boilers were at the top of Carl’s agenda in our last interview; today, though, Worcester Bosch is still waiting for a top-level decision. “We have taken part in field trials to help the government decide on the future of the gas network and repurposing it over to hydrogen. But we face yet more delays and really can’t afford to waste more time.
“The previous government also made some bold forecasts around heat pumps, running a couple of funding programmes and various other schemes, yet people haven’t been persuaded to make the Carlswitch.”believes that part of the problem hinges on consumers’ current expectations and the way new technologies operate.
027Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce BIG INTERVIEW
“Consumers need some gentle nudges to change behaviour, for instance running appliances at lower temperatures and getting better thermal insulation. UK homes are traditionally very leaky and this, coupled with our dramatic weather changes, mean current heating systems are geared to turn up the thermostat
Nevertheless, Worcester Bosch continues to be a passionate advocate of hybrid technologies. “They should be supported as transitionary technologies that helps everyone get used to a little bit of electric heating alongside using their boiler.
Carl is both pragmatic about current challenges and optimistic for the future.
“Everyone needs the new government to step up to the mark straightaway and support everyone through this short-term energy crisis. Once we get through this winter, I think the economy and inflation will start to settle down over the next couple of years.
Carl continues, “Luckily the UK rarely gets sub-zero temperatures, so I still think that heat pumps could still help meet future energy needs. Sadly it’s the same old record, with the decision on converting new houses over to heat pumps also delayed until 2026.”
“Our sights are firmly set on decarbonisation, and we remain very excited about investment in new technologies. Bosch is renowned for innovation, it’s in our DNA. We’re just being held back a little by the blunt realities of life at the moment.
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Mountford: they have a second office in Evesham and are actively recruiting. “We ran an open day for school leavers to take on an apprentice but were so impressed with the general attitude and willingness to learn that we ended up with two!”
If things do go wrong, you need to be confident they can ‘hold your hand’ through the claims process.
“It’sconfusing.farbetter to narrow down to two quality brokers for the best terms.
Today, the company is the only independent chartered insurance brokers in Worcester, no small achievement as only around five per cent of UK insurance brokers have the professional qualifications for this status.
If the events of the last two years have taught businesses anything at all, it is to ‘expect the unexpected’ at work. But don’t think that new ways of working reduce your insurance liability and risk, advises Simeon Chapman, of Hazelton Mountford chartered insurance brokers.
“From a cost angle, a business should have a strategy for marketing renewals. For example, going out to market every year with lots of brokers isn’t very efficient. You could have, say, five brokers going to an underwriter on your behalf with five different presentations and quotes. It could end up being time-consuming and
“It’s never good practice to cut corners”, says Simeon, Director at the Worcester-based firm. “In fact, in the current business climate, it’s more vital than ever to have proper cover.” Simeon sees business interruption insurance as a critical aspect, highlighting recent fires in the region which put businesses out of operation for some time. “Obviously if you can’t trade, your customers will look elsewhere for services and goods, and it can be difficult to tempt them back. Cost savings are top of everyone’s agenda, but while it’s easy to replace a computer or a small piece of machinery, it’s much more difficult to replace customers and profit!
COVERFEATURE
“Comprehensive cover can actually be a lot cheaper than people think, and good business interruption covers fixed costs, such as wages and other overheads that still have to be paid until you’re back on your feet. “It’s tempting to say, ‘Oh we’ll scrimp on that’, but at the risk your business won’t be fully protected and you lose out in the long Simeonrun.”has seen a definite shift in focus since the rise of working from home. “Cybercrime is much more commonplace, particularly because remote training is challenging. In an office, someone might lean over and say, ‘I’ve got this dodgy email, what should I do?’ But people working from home are more likely to click on junk mail and that exposes a whole new area of risk. Data protection is a similar Simeonproblem.”adds,
“Conventional office costs have gone down, but liability hasn’t. We see a lot of claims for cyber-espionage – either manipulated invoices or a brute force attack, the data equivalent of a break-in. Criminals aren’t stealing your house contents, though, they’re stealing your data or adding a virus to your system.
Simeon concludes, “It’s very important to find a quality broker who understands your business and offers the right options.
“In a normal week, we deal with eight to 10 claims – last week, there were 28 claims! There’s also a rise in traditional claims now that roads are busier.”
“We started with nothing, and today have just over £11m Gross Written Premium, so we’ve done reasonably well,” Simeon says (with some understatement).
Hazelton Mountford makes sure you get the right deal – we’re not always the cheapest, but we find the cover you need.”
Hazelton Mountford’s core services are business insurance, private clients insurance and a tenant referencing service and they place great value on their tailor-made customer service. Simeon explains, “We spend a lot of time with our clients assessing and evaluating risks on-site. We then recommend the best terms and cover from an insurance “Mostperspective.covers are not compulsory, so it’s about making sure the business understands the risks and gets the best protection for their needs. You either take the risk or you pay a premium for someone else to take the risk.” More growth is on the cards at Hazelton
GETTING THE BEST VALUE OUT OF YOUR INSURANCE COVER
More details at hazeltonmountford.co.uk.
Hazelton Mountford was launched in a small office above a Droitwich wine bar by Gordon Hazelton and Jake Mountford in 2008, with Simeon joining three years later.
Simeon Chapman
BOOST YOUR BUSINESS WITH ARMED FORCES SKILLS
COVERFEATURE
“The Armed Forces have a clear understanding of how to motivate themselves and others, and maintain morale individually, or in a team of any “Organisationsize. is also crucial. This means choosing the right priorities, managing resources and workflows, and meeting deadlines; this behavior comes naturally to those with a military background.
“For instance, give a Private soldier a task and they will find the most effective and efficient way to do it. You could say that many ex-service personnel are project managers without even realising it!”
More details about recruiting military veterans are available from the Career Transition Partnership at ctp.org.uk.
TOP TRANSFERABLE SKILLS FROM MILITARY TO BUSINESS
Employers can also advertise jobs for free at CTP Right Job and Forces Families Jobs. Find out more about the work of West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association at wmrfca.org and contact Phil Sinclair at wm-reed2@rfca.mod.uk
“Effectively, I sell the Armed Forces Covenant to business, but with no costs involved,” he explains. “The Covenant is a promise by the nation that everyone who serves or has served in the military – together with their families - are treated fairly.”
029Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Staff recruitment is tough at present, but a rich seam of skills is available through the Armed Forces Covenant. Regional Employer Engagement Director, Phil Sinclair, explains why employers should consider hiring personnel with military backgrounds. Over 14,000 people leave the UK Armed Forces every year, but they certainly don’t leave empty-handed. Even those who only complete initial training before deciding military life isn’t for them come away with transferable skills which are ideal for business.
Phil explains, “Teamwork is a key part of military training – either working individually, as part of a team or a collective team effort. “Effective communication is also essential. It’s embedded in training, whether you’re a Private soldier or a Lieutenant General, to help maintain focus and direction. “Then there’s leadership. Almost everyone with a military background has a strong and instinctive understanding of what it means to lead, and how to be a leader. It’s part of their lifeblood, along with motivation.
Phil Sinclair - Regional Employer Engagement Director Stefan Reeve - Cyber Security Apprentice at Superfast IT and Army Reservist
Phil Sinclair – an Army veteran with over 30 years’ service – is Regional Employer Engagement Director for West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association. He belongs to a close-knit network of advisors across the UK, who are building mutually beneficial partnerships with the corporate community through a government-backed scheme called Defence Relationship Management.
While special consideration is given to those suffering injury or bereavement, Phil is keen to point out this doesn’t mean preferential treatment over everyone else.
“It just makes sure our Armed Forces community don’t have to tackle barriers to services, goods and resources that the rest of us take for granted.” “Military transferable skills are a great benefit, not least in terms of cost,” he explains. “Our Reservists and veterans develop a wide range of soft and hard skills throughout their military careers, which are a great asset to any “We’reworkplace.not saying we have enough personnel leaving to meet the acute level of skills shortages faced by the UK. There are around 150,000 serving members across the forces, with approximately 14,000 leaving every year. But we are proud to say that our value is based on quality not quantity. “It’s all about the genuine skills and experience built up over the years which can make a real difference to business attitude and performance.”
“Another top key skill is planning, which concentrates on attention to detail, resource management, executing plans correctly, and building in contingency where necessary.” Phil adds, “Practically every trade, skill and qualification required in business exists in the Armed Forces, from communications, catering and engineering to logistics, driving, healthcare and education.
BECOMING A FORCES FRIENDLY EMPLOYER Hiring Reservists and veterans has proven business benefits for all types of business, large and small. Companies can sign the covenant to support the Armed Forces community in a number of Thisways.includes having policies that encourage service in the Reserves or provide jobs to veterans and their partners. The MOD seeks to foster open, honest partnerships with companies and support their needs too, by providing training and guidance to ex-military personnel moving into employment in the civilian sector. Find out more at armedforcescovenant.gov.uk
You can encourage your employees to use their Plan to catch health issues early by attending regular appointments, knowing they can claim back some or all of the costs. And while optical and dental treatments are among the most-claimed types of healthcare costs, a Plan offers much more than that – with a minimum of seven different types of appointment included (such as physiotherapy and chiropody) within every single Plan.
And our Employee Assistance Programme offers round-the-clock confidential support for any Policyholder, as many times as they need. Where needed, the Policyholder may also be offered up to six structured counselling sessions too.
Everyone signed up to our Plans also gets access to our Paycare Perks platform, which hosts a variety of offers on both necessities and luxuries – a real helping hand in tough financial times.
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An employer seeking a stand-alone EAP would be looking at paying out around £15 per employee (IOD), but because we truly want to offer maximum value, we include access to MyHelpline within all of our Policies – whether individual or employer-paid. And we know that for every £1 spent on an EAP in the UK, employers see an average return on investment of £8 (EAP Association).
BUSINESS BENEFITS
Higher levels of productivity – in some cases, productivity rises by at least 12% where issues such as mental ill health are addressed (Breathe HR).
Paycare paying back on average more than 80% of all premiums in claims payments, there’s a higher return on investment compared to other benefits available for companies to choose from for their team.
To learn more about how a Health Cash Plan and Wellbeing Services can support your business and team – download our FREE guide to Workplace Wellbeing: www.paycare.org/workplace-wellbeing
FOCUSONFINANCE
Helps recruitment – at least three fifths of jobseekers consider employee wellbeing as a crucial factor when applying to work for a new company (Glassdoor).
MAKING FULL USE OF A PLAN
We can clearly see the benefits to staff of their employer-paid Plan. But how does the company themselves reap the value of their investment? Less presenteeism – this collectively costs the UK more than £15billion each year (Centre for Mental Health).
It’s a concept which is hundreds of years old yet its purpose is still extremely relevant today – especially at a time when wellbeing matters more than ever, and we’re all reassessing both household and organisational budgets in light of the cost of living crisis.
Less sickness – a third of businesses experience a drop in absence rates after introducing health benefits (CIPD).
Health for all – everyone has access to a whole range of benefits – meaning they can pick and choose which they need, and you’re supporting them all in a way which is of real individual and collective Plus,value.with
WHY IS A HEALTH CASH PLAN MORE VALUABLE TODAY THAN EVER BEFORE?
In need of funding to drive your business forward? Has inflation impacted on your working capital requirements? Do you have growth potential but can’t get all the support you need from the traditional banking Oursources?lending can cover all types of funding requirements in most business settings. Loans available for borrowing between £15,000 and We£50,000area Worcestershire based lender with government legacy funds available for lending to enterprises in the West Mercia Region (Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire & Telford & Wrekin) For more information and the link to begin the application process, please visit our RegisteredMRRTemail:www.impetus-marches.co.ukwebsite.lending@impetus-marches.co.ukLtd,TheGardenHouse,WR101PZinEngland05112041 031Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce FOCUSONFINANCE
Health and Wellbeing Zone
Following on from the previous successful events, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has again teamed up with Hewett Recruitment for their 9th annual HR Professionals Conference. The conference is aimed at HR Professionals from companies of all sizes and sectors. It’s a date not to be missed for those wanting to understand the current and future innovations and challenges facing businesses.
BOOK YOUR STAND FOR THE AUTUMN BUSINESS EXPO, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH HEWETT RECRUITMENT
What are the benefits of exhibiting? >> Generate sales leads Promote your company Find new suppliers Network with business professionals Increase your product and service profile Make new business contacts
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. Exhibition stands start from only £239.00+VAT, and more information on visiting can be found at www.hwchamber.co.uk/events/business-expo
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 Edgards Water, will be in the Networking Zone throughout the day.
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!
Lunchtime Networking Thursday 27 12.00-1.00pmOctober|Chamber Zoom 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 breakout rooms.
Food and Drink Producers Zone
Sponsored by Hewett Recruitment
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.
Zone Sponsored by Worcestershire Growth Hub
Thursday 10 November | 9.00am-3.00pm | Bank House Hotel Spa & Golf Club, Bransford, Worcester WR6 5JD £40.00+VAT Members / £55.00+VAT Non-members
Sponsored by mfg Solicitors
EVENTSTheNetworking
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.
UPCOMING EVENTS Bank of England Annual Briefing Friday 23 September | 8.00-10.00am The Green Dragon Hotel, Hereford, HR4 Businesses9BG are invited to attend the Chamber’s Annual Bank of England Briefing to hear from Graeme Chaplin, the Bank of England’s Agent for the West Midlands and Oxfordshire.Graeme will update Members on the bank’s recent activities,UK economy and how the bank will help support UK businesses with a series of monetary policies.
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
Tickets on sale for the HR Professionals Conference
Herefordshire Networking Breakfast Wednesday 5 October | 7.30-9.30am NMiTE, Blackfriars Street, Hereford HR4 9HS 12.00-1.00pm Join fellow Chamber Members and business professionals from across the region to access plenty of networking opportunities, the chance to introduce yourself to the group, hear from a local guest speaker and enjoy a complimentary breakfast.
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For more information about Bees Knees Marketing see www.beeskneesmarketing.co.uk or call 07779 299860
TWOCOUNTIES
PR and Marketing agency Bees Knees Marketing is celebrating its 5th birthday this Foundedsummer.by Rosie Hamilton, who is a Chartered Institute of Public Relations Accredited Practitioner, the agency has gone from strength to strength in the last 5 years acquiring clients from across the Three Counties and the UK. Projects undertaken include managing a comprehensive marketing and branding review for Link and Upton Business Centre and the provision of PR and marketing services to a wide range of professional services companies. More recently, Bees Knees Marketing has been providing PR support to Kidderminster-based Citizen Communication which has just won high-profile marketing and communications tenders with BetaDen and Worcestershire County Council.
During the pandemic Rosie offered a free press release service to Chamber members and carried out voluntary work within the Bromsgrove community. Earlier this year she spearheaded a fundraising concert for Ukraine which raised over £1000 for DEC ‘Duringcharities.lockdown, many business owners recognised how much value is generated by effective PR and marketing’ says Rosie ‘So much of what I do involves helping my clients build a clearer understanding of their target audiences and then linking their business objectives with their messaging. This helps avoid the scattergun approach which simply wastes money’ ‘Being a business owner is thoroughly enjoyable but it can be a tough challenge sometimes as fellow members will recognise! I’d like to thank the Chamber, our clients and everyone who has supported us through these first 5 years. I’m excited to see what the future holds’
Celebrating the vibrancy, variety and success of businesses within the County, this special celebratory raceday will bring together business people for a day of informal networking in the Rusty Bridge Restaurant, at just £58 + VAT pp.
We are delighted to be hosting the inaugural Herefordshire Business Raceday on Monday 31st October.
INAUGURAL HEREFORDSHIRE BUSINESS RACEDAY
Grants of between £100,000 and £2million will be available through the new Marches LEP Energy Fund for capital projects which help future-proof energy provision, promote the use of renewable and sustainable power sources and boost the low carbon economy.
“The Marches LEP recognises that energy provision is a critical element for unlocking future growth which is why the board has given approval to open a £4million call for capital energy projects.
For more details of the scheme and the application process visit marches-lep-energy-fund/www.marcheslep.org.uk/transparency/
A £4million fund to help develop new innovations to safeguard the region’s energy supply and support the drive to Net Zero has been launched by the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).
MARCHES LEP LAUNCHES £4MILLION ENERGY FUND
Plus, any Herefordshire business that books has the opportunity to upgrade and include race sponsorship for just £500 + VAT making it a truly memorable day for you and your business.
Rachel Laver, Marches LEP chief executive, said the fund was being launched to help the region address its climate responsibilities, and the growing issues of energy security and the cost of power.
“This new fund builds on the key aims of the Marches Energy Strategy to build a clean, environmentally-responsible and resilient energy infrastructure across the region. It will seek to help the most innovative, effective and sustainable projects across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin become a reality.”
Whether large or small, multinational or local we will be celebrating the best of Herefordshire business. We hope Chamber members will join us on the day to enjoy a complimentary Celtic Marches drinks reception before a three course Herefordshire themed menu with guest Chamberspeakers.members that book a table of 10 (£580 + VAT) will also receive 25 complimentary tickets for the day. Please email kmansell@hereford-racecourse to find out more or book.
“There is not a business or family in the region that has not been impacted by the soaring energy costs of the past few months and we are all aware of the pressing need to respond to climate change and meet our net zero targets.
BEES NOMINATIONWITHBUSINESS5CELEBRATESMARKETINGKNEESYEARSINAWARD
“We want to help projects which will help improve our energy infrastructure, contribute to the growing development of our low carbon economy, address the issue of fuel poverty across the Marches and also ensure that the region has a greater degree of energy security.
Key objectives of projects to be supported by the fund include: Smart control and mitigation of grid Innovationconstraints 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
033Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
www.four-squared.com
Emma ManagingRichardson,Director 2022 helen.flintoff@ karen.southern@
The hiring boom has not yet come to a head and the previous challenges of increasing wages in order to secure retention remains as popular as it has been over the past few quarters. We are witnessing some of the highest pay awards in recent history, but this may not be a recurring trend. In response to the challenges of recruitment, retention and skills shortages, it seems that some employers are now more likely to say they intend to upskill existing employees. This is a positive step, as employer investment in training has decreased in recent years. Retention is as important as recruitment in the battle to secure the labour supply required to meet demand. Official statistics now show a record low redundancy rate, with data suggesting redundancies will continue to remain low in the coming quarter. After peaking during the pandemic, redundancy intentions have now been low for six consecutive quarters. Only 13% of employers surveyed in recent CIPD research said they intended to make layoffs in the three months leading up to September 2022. This demonstrates that, in a tight labour market, employers should prioritise retaining existing employees over recruiting new ones. Therefore, it may be prudent to concentrate on your current workforce. Provide training to upskill or reskill employees in order to fill skill gaps and support employee engagement and Considerretention.using internal secondments to provide development opportunities as well as redeploying your workforce to your most critical areas of need.
Recruitment is extremely difficult right now, and all of the current data available suggests that it will remain so in the coming quarter.
RECRUITMENT MD “DON’T HIRE, UPSKILL”
distinctivegroup.co.uk greenbusinessjournal.co.uk
distinctivegroup.co.uk editorial:
034 September/October
to advertise or contribute to GREEN JOURNALBUSINESS advertising:
Engaging your brand with audiences that matter. be-everywhere.co.uk | E: info@be-everywhere.co.uk | T: 0191 580 5990 Find your digital voice!
From brain-boosting breakfasts to spectacular fire pit feasts, where whole cuts of estate lamb, beef and pork are slow-roasted on the Asado grill, the sky’s the “Swaplimit.strip lights and water coolers for big skies and this extraordinary landscape, and we guarantee you’ll watch engagement and productivity soar,” adds “AndKeeley.of course there’s our whole estate to play “Whetherin. you’re keen on clay shooting, archery, game cookery or cocktail-making masterclasses, we’ll curate your version of a perfect event.”
with 11 spoiling bedrooms, indulgent self-catering cottage and breathtaking indoor and outdoor spaces, is the ideal spot to gather, create and inspire. Flexible meeting and private dining spaces include the Art Gallery, seating up to 120.
BLUE
Following a career in banking in the Far East, owners Joe and Keeley Evans returned to the family estate in Whitbourne in 2010. COMMUNICATIONSPRINTQUALITY–DIRECTPRINTMAILDELIVERINGAND
CRUMPLEBURY IS DELIGHTED TO HAVE BECOME A STRATEGIC MEMBER OF THE HEREFORDSHIRE & WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
With a dream of running their own restaurant, Green Cow Kitchens was born. This intimate, farm-to-table, fine dining eatery serves seasonal tasting menus celebrating the bounty of the estate and organic home farm. Ten years on, this converted 18th century pigsty is at the heart of a state-of-the-art events Crumplebury,venue.
windows and a generous balcony offer spectacular farm views. The Grand Hall, seating up to 200, boasts incredible views across the 1,500-acre estate. Big enough for major car launches - Volvo and Citroen have recently driven their new models through the vast doors - smart enough for conferences and dazzling works parties, the team delights in curating memorable, bespoke events.
It’s perfect for board meetings - where executives gather around oak tables hewn from estate timber - dinners and product Floor-to-ceilinglaunches.
“Having spent my share of business meetings in windowless hotel rooms, I wanted to come home and create inspiring spaces,” says Joe, Chair of Hereforshire BID and the CLA. Each event, conference and launch is unique and tailored to your business, all with critically-acclaimed Green Cow Kitchens food at their heart.
Operating from Droitwich, Blue Print Direct Mail has been sending imaginative, engaging and highly targeted direct mail for over 20 Recentlyyears. we took the decision to upgrade to Strategic membership of the Chamber and we’re extremely excited for the business growth opportunities that this will bring. Direct mail or, in other words, bulk print and post, broadly refers to mail that is printed, processed and mailed in volume at reduced rates. Used for advertising mail, it can be transactional too, such as with bank Whilststatements.direct mail is our speciality, it’s not all we do. We are first and foremost a printer and we can provide products in any format from small run business cards through long run flyers, brochures and leaflets to banners, posters and Westickers.livein a digital world but print and mail still has an important part to play in reaching audiences and generating business. Not available historically, we now have the means to show you how measurable direct mail actually is. Our business is committed to constant improvement with ISO 9001, ISO 14000 and ISO 27001 accreditations and we strive very hard to offer the highest levels of service in support of our customers’ requirements. To do this, we continually invest in our staff, equipment, and software to ensure continued innovative and reliable Wesolutions.lookforward to meeting with and being able to offer our competitively priced, high quality services to our fellow members.
NEWMEMBERSPROFILE 036 September/October 2022
The company offer Commercial, Industrial, Domestic, Electrical testing and certification, Pat testing, CCTV and Data and Alarm.
Pete and Alex have directed the company into renewable energy offering electrical vehicle charging, Solar PV and Battery. You can be confident with the quality of work with the accreditations achieved such as NicEic Approved contractors, Constructionline gold, Acclaime SSIP, DBS Checked and Asbestos trained.
Ormerod Rutter provides accountancy services and business advisory across all sectors, and we are delighted to work more closely with the Chamber of Commerce, as strategic members.
037Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
“When you instruct us, you will find that the person you appoint will be looking after you personally, from start to finish,” says Senior Partner Ian Stirzaker. “You will know what we are doing, why, when and how much it will cost. We make sure you always understand what is going on and then we get on with it. Our job is to be helpful and to make sure you feel welcome and at ease in our offices here at SME” Find out more at www.smesolicitors.co.uk or call 01905 723561.
Pat-Man 24/7 are honorable and experienced electrical contractors.
Pete and Alex are the directors and they have built the company on simple old fashion values such as always answering the phone, turning up on time, efficient turn arounds and good relationships.
On top of their achievements Pete and Alex are lovely guys to work with and support the local charities and education sector.
PAT-MAN 24/7
As Business Advisers, we recognise the different needs and challenges you will face at each stage of your business life cycle and provide specialist support to Ourclients.expert tax team have an extensive knowledge of UK and international tax law and we pride ourselves on our specialist advice on personal and corporate tax, alongside accountancy, audit, tax planning, business sales and acquisitions, financial management, strategic planning, shareholder advice, wealth planning and Operatingprotection.out of our three offices, in Droitwich, Bromsgrove and Birmingham, we are a team with a diverse range of skills and pride ourselves on our business and accountancy advice. With experience dating back 40 years, we are committed to improving and innovating within the firm and developing the next generation of specialist advisors through our dedicated talent acquisition and apprenticeship programme.
“We are delighted to become strategic members and meet the other businesses within. We look forward to building good relationships and meeting good people. We like to help support the Worcestershire and Herefordshire business’s to build our community up. Feel free if any one would like to meet for a coffee or an introduction with ourselves”
We are delighted to welcome back SME Solicitors to the Hereford and Worcester Chamber of Commerce as a Strategic Member. SME Solicitors is an independent minded legal firm with a focus on top quality helpful service based in offices with parking at Sansome Walk in the centre of TheWorcester.firmbelieves in offering a dedicated and personal service to resolve your individual requirements, whether in private life or business.
NEWMEMBERSPROFILE
INTRODUCING ORMEROD RUTTER
“We look forward to building good relationships and meeting good people.”
The prime objective of each and every one of SME Solicitors’ legal team is to build a relationship for your current requirements and to anticipate future need too.
SME SOLICITORS
As Business Advisers, we know that receiving advice from someone who understands your business context is a vital step in the right direction and can be critical to your success, and we look forward to meeting and working alongside more members.
Jonathan Downes of Glassfull is one of the speakers on the day and he will be discussing ‘The Heart of Connection’. This talk will be a focus on the importance of being connected with our own emotions as the basis for being more connected with others - something men aren’t always naturally good at. Jonathan will also be discussing the problems caused by ‘expectations’ that we often put on Worcestershireourselves.
038 September/October 2022 WORCESTERSHIREWORKSWELL
WORCESTERSHIRE WORKS WELL PREPARE FOR THEIR NEXT ANNUAL CONFERENCE!
Some of the businesses who are involved in the scheme will be speaking on the day, discussing the initiatives they have been running to support men’s health.
As part of its offering to Members of the scheme, the annual conference, being held at Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove, is a free event where Members can network with other businesses and learn more about health and wellbeing in the Thisworkplace.year’s theme for the conference is Men’s Health and topics on the day will include: domestic male abuse, signs and symptoms of prostate cancer, suicide prevention, mental health and nutrition.
Works Well are expecting a high demand for places on this event, so bookings are currently restricted to 2 representatives only from each organisation. A waiting list is being operated, so if you would like to bring more than two representatives, please send details to wwwadmin@worcestershire.gov.uk
The locally-based accreditation scheme, Worcestershire Works Well (WWW) which supports businesses to improve the health and wellbeing of their employees, is excited to be hosting its next annual conference on Thursday 29 September 2022!
SHARE YOUR STORY!
The newly accredited businesses will be celebrated on the day also.
LEVEL 1 ACCREDITED! Staff at vietec dusted off their trainers and walking boots in a bid to get up, move, be less sedentary and be more motivated. Working towards their Level 1 Worcestershire Works Well Accreditation, the team at vietec decided to promote health and wellbeing in the workplace by competing in teams in a step count challenge for #WalkThisMay - a campaign organized throughout the month of May to encourage people to get outside and get some more steps in! This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to work together as a team. As part of this campaign, the team organised a special day out when they met up for the first time after lockdown when restrictions were lifted. They had the option to either walk or go by water for the 20km trip. Some went by barge, some Philwalked!Drew, Managing Director at vietec said “It was good to see the team join in with the WWW accreditation. Our company day out gave us the ability to wind down as a group and was a great success and hope we can continue to do more as a team. We owe Rebecca a debt of thanks for the hard work she put in the help us gain the Congratulations!accreditation.”
TAX EFFICIENT PROFIT FOR HW CHAMBER MEMBERS
Chris Williams explains Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credits “The ThirdRock Way”. Company Directors will recall discussing with their accountant the most tax efficient method for profit extraction and a conversation around salary v dividend. Despite Government measures to level the playing field, the savings in National Insurance Contributions continue to outweigh the company tax relief on salary for many Directors with, the optimum strategy landing on a combination of nominal salary and profit balance taken as dividend.
039Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
“We are very pleased to have been able to advise on the deal, which will enable Precedental to consolidate its place in the market as an industry leader.”
Thursfields provided legal advice to the shareholders of Precedental. Director Gareth Burge and associate Joe Rollins advised on corporate matters, with Lisa Kemp providing employment advice and Ben Lyons advising on property matters.
Burge said: “Precedental was founded in 1990 by directors Ross Liversidge and Peter Smith in conjunction with the Prince’s Youth Business Trust. The company is a specialist dental service provider and is highly regarded in its field by dental practices.
BUSINESSNEWS
Precedental Ltd, a Stourbridge based dental laboratory company has been acquired by Amalgamated Laboratory Solutions Ltd (ALS Dental), a London headquartered business backed by Ansor Private Equity.
Chris Williams of ThirdRock considers the Director of an innovating Company, claiming R&D Tax Credits who is devoting a lot of time to Research and Development. The Director will be shocked to learn that the valuable 230% tax deduction applies only to staff costs, including salary but cannot value the Directors dividend. Should the Director challenge the traditional thinking around salary v dividend, and which is best? ThirdRock take a holistic approach to R&D tax claims and have crunched the numbers with some startling results. R&D Tax Credits remain a generous cornerstone of the UK tax code and many local companies are not claiming. With the average claim worth an estimated £54,000 contact us to see how we may reward your innovation.
Ross Liversidge and Peter Smith, founders of Precedental, commented: “We definitely made the right decision in choosing Thursfields to represent us in the sale of our business. The high level of client care and service we received from Gareth, Joe and the entire team at Thursfields was second to none! Their advice, guidance, attention to detail and support made the entire sale process much easier for us. We would have no hesitation in recommending Thursfields and we are so pleased they were recommended to us – for any legal matters in the future, they will be our go to for Corporatesure!”finance advice was provided to the shareholders of Precedental by BSN Associates. ALS was advised by Lawrence Stephens (legal) and Azets (corporate finance).
THURSFIELDS ADVISES PRECEDENTAL ON SALE TO ALS DENTAL
In line with the changeover, we are now inputting as many of our declarations on CDS as possible. In order to input declarations on CDS we do require some additional information which were not required by CHIEF –examples being: vehicle registration number or Vehicle ID & both Gross & Net Weights. We have some simple Import & Export information sheets which outline all of the information we need to complete declarations via CDS and are happy to provide these to all client who need these.
OUR SUPPORT FOR IMPORTERS AND EXPORTERS
The Customs Handling of Import and Export (CHIEF) system is being retired and will be replaced by the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). For imports, the switch over is just around the corner on 30th September 2022 and for Exports, the switch over will be 31st March 2023.
INTERNATIONALTRADE
FX and international payments service 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! For
“Chamber Customs have expert knowledge of the import process and how it works. From the onset of Brexit they have guided us through the rapidly changing world of importing horticultural product. They provide an efficient, effective service meaning goods have a smooth passage through the port systems. The benefit of having ‘someone’ to speak to when uncertainties arise is huge. Thank you Chamber Customs team!” - Wyevale Nurseries
or Internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk for
Certificates
Egyptian
“I have always found the export certification staff at the Chamber readily on hand to offer a very good service. Their response times and availability to sort out any problems is impressive.” - UK Log Exports you to the Chamber and Mark for providing this excellent service.” SPX Cooling Technologies UK Ltd
There are 5 simple steps that will help your business understand the changes you need to make. Our Chamber Customs team are now set up and live on the CDS system to allow for a smooth transition. Further details on how to transfer to CDS can be found on our website at: Customs Declaration Service - Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce (hwchamber.co.uk)
MEET THE TEAM Leanne Wanczyk AdvisorDocumentationExport Emma Harris AdvisorDocumentationExport Kayla Ball TradeInternationalAdvisor
“Thank
Chamber of Commerce support for businesses that import and/or export has been well established for many years. Our services assist in getting your products to/from your clients or suppliers in the most effective and efficient way, ensuring costly delays at ports are Contactavoided. us today for help with any of the following documents or declarations: of Origin and UKAuthenticationArab-British Certificate of Origin Certification and Legalisation
If your business trades imports or exports and you have not yet discussed changing over systems with your Customs agent, please check this out without delay. 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.
040 September/October 2022
information
Consular Services – non Arab documents requiring legalisation by an Embassy and/or the Foreign & Commonwealth Office – a bespoke further details or support, please contact us on 01905 673614 support or more
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041Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce INTERNATIONALTRADE 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. BESPOKE TRAINING SEPTEMBER COURSE DATES 2022 WHAT’S NEW (VIRTUAL: 10:00-12:00) BASIC (VIRTUAL:DOCUMENTATIONEXPORT10:00-12:00) QUICK GUIDE TO ORIGIN RULES (VIRTUAL: 10:00-12:00) OCTOBER / NOVEMBER COURSE DATES 2022 BASIC DOCUMENTATIONEXPORT INTRO TO PROCEDURESCUSTOMS ADVANCEDDOCUMENTATIONEXPORT BASIC DOCUMENTATIONIMPORTOCTOCT275 NOV26OCT 2020INCOTERMSRULESIMPORT DUTY & (VIRTUAL:MANAGEMENTVAT10:00-12:00)QUICK GUIDE TO CLASSIFICATIONTARIFF10NOV NOV16 NOV17 (FACE TO FACE: 09:30-16:30) (FACE TO FACE: 09:30-16:30) (FACE TO FACE: 09:30-16:30) (VIRTUAL: 10:00-12:00) (VIRTUAL: 10:00-12:00) (FACE TO FACE: 09:30-16:30) UPCOMING COURSE DATES SEP2120SEP (VIRTUAL:(VIRTUAL:IMPORT28SEP8NOV13OCTCUSTOMSDECLARATIONSATACARNETPROCEDURES10:00-12:00)10:00-12:00) SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER / NOVEMBER
042 September/October 2022 NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITHBIRMINGHAM Versinetic Ltd 0121 295 5400 www.versinetic.co.uk BROMSGROVE Purple Vibrant Ltd 07870 569455 www.purplevibrant.co.uk CHELTENHAM Woodland Heritage Limited 01242 467356 www.woodlandheritage.org DROITWICH Form Financial Clarity 0330 0949 040 www.formfinancialclarity.co.uk FAREHAM Earth Hub Limited 01527 369220 www.earth-hub.co.uk HEREFORD Fluidmaster GB Ltd 01432 357 331 Instinctivewww.fluidmasteruk.comSolutionsLimited 07791 842108 www.instinctivesolutions.co.uk LS Wyldbore 074 8154 5738 Silverwww.reedsy.com/lesley-wyldboreScopeMedia 01432 483163 Suewww.silverscopemedia.comSmithTherapy 07852 224886 www.suesmiththerapy.com KIDDERMINSTER Atticus Insurance Brokers 01562 543581 Hartleburywww.atticusinsurance.co.ukCastlePreservation Trust 01299 33170 Preparedwww.hartleburycastle.comPeopleLtd 07557 669 449 www.preparedpeople.co.uk LEOMINSTER Wild Edric Media Ltd 01568 572966 www.wildedricmedia.com MALVERN Mention Resources Ltd 0121 728 2208 www.wemention.co.uk REDDITCH C R Mac Donald Limited 01527 518989 www.crmacdonald.co.uk DH Design Services 07814 643703 JHwww.dhdesignservice.comLines&SonsLtd 01527 63078 Topwww.linesandsons.comBoxStudiosLtd 01527 390351 www.topboxstudios.com ROSS-ON-WYE Cool Moves Dance and Fitness 01989 750354 www.coolmovesdance.co.uk STOURPORT-ON-SEVERN Active Youth Outreach Services CIC 07954 171621 Calatheawww.ayos.org.ukSupply Chain Ltd 0330 165 53443 www.calathea.app SURREY The Business Cube 07702 358066 www.thebusinesscube.co.uk WORCESTER Be The Change Hospitality 01905 610505 www.bethechangefoods.co.uk
Social media users in Worcestershire are welcome to join #WorcestershireHour by sharing the hashtag in their posts. Twitter hours are on Monday evenings from 8-9pm and Wednesdays from 12-1 pm.
043Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
White & Green Mineral Toothpaste is available to buy from www.thegreenwoman.co.uk or from stockists which can be found on the website.
Umami Chef was founded in 2019 by Jackie Bailey. It was the first company in the UK approved to grow koji – a naturally occurring fungus, which has been used for centuries to make Japanese fermented foods like miso, soy sauce and sake. The business, based in Worcester, is growing rapidly thanks to the current interest in naturally fermented foods.
The team at Sinclair Day Accountancy is celebrating a double victory having won two awards for best practice in social Themedia.Worcester-based accountancy firm won accolades for Best Use of Twitter and Best Use of LinkedIn by a Business at the Worcestershire Social Media Awards held at Sixways. 180 guests, looking resplendent in evening attire, enjoyed a three course dinner before the presentation of the awards. Winners were deemed by the judges to be best at using social media to promote their business, charity, public sector or community cause.
BUSINESSNEWS
The company won silver awards for their Sweet White Fava Miso Paste and Filtered Shio Koji and a Bronze for Fresh Shio Koji. They hope to spread the word about Japanese fermented foods and encourage people to eat miso made with beans grown in the UK.
An innovative natural
beenGreenCarnallEvepioneeringdevelopedtoothpaste,bysistersandSuzanneofTheWoman,hasshortlistedfor a national award.
Suzanne Carnall of The Green Woman said that the company was delighted that its White & Green toothpaste had been recognised.
The Shropshire based company has developed the premium White & Green mineral toothpaste as part of its range of 100% natural, certified organic health and beauty products.
“We worked very hard to find only the best, most effective natural ingredients to go into our new toothpaste. It’s quite an honour to have that work recognised by the Health & Wellbeing team by shortlisting us for the oral care award,” she Shortlistedsaid. products will now be judged by a panel of expert judges.
‘Thesaid: Worcestershire Social Media judges considered all aspects of how each finalist was using the different social media channels. Sinclair Day Accountancy stood out in the LinkedIn & Twitter for Business categories because they not only provided vast amounts of insightful content, they also proactively engaged, promoted and supported other local businesses, including other accountancy firms. This was a fun and fabulous evening and we’d like to congratulate all the winners and everyone who was short-listed’ Sam Sinclair-Day, Head of Awesomeness at Sinclair Day Accountancy said: ‘We are really thrilled to have won both Best use of Twitter and Best Use of LinkedIn by a Business. We have absolutely loved engaging with our Twitter followers and our connections on LinkedIn. Our whole team have been involved, writing top tips, blogs and sharing photos. So it is fantastic to receive acknowledgement of the hard work that has gone into our social media over the last couple of years.’
Sam Sinclair-Day with Claire Hill from Hill HR Consultancy Ltd
Now the new product, which was launched earlier this year and is produced at the company’s Ludlow Makery, has been shortlisted in the Health & Wellbeing Awards 2022 run by the national magazine.
Stuart Allen, who is a Business Consultant and founder of #WorcestershireHour and the Worcestershire Festival of Business
DOUBLE WIN FOR SINCLAIR DAY ACCOUNTANCY IN WORCESTERSHIRE SOCIAL MEDIA AWARDS
Umami Chef has been awarded three Farm Shop & Deli 2022 awards - with every single product they entered being given an accolade. This was an especially good achievement as it was the first awards they’d ever entered.
The toothpaste contains high quality organic ingredients and artificial flavourings have been replaced with natural plant extracts such as peppermint essential oil. It contains no fluoride or Triclosan.
NATURAL TOOTHPASTE SHORTLISTED FOR NATIONAL AWARD
AWARDS FOR UMAMI CHEF AT FARM SHOP AND DELI SHOW
Contact us to find out how we can support you and your loved ones 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. How can I help? Did you know? I could not have managed without the assistance I received In 2021 Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire supported over 11,000 people. In 2022 we want to reach even more people that need us of our Help at Home clients said that our service had a positive impact on them Donate if you can Volunteer with us Payroll giving Run a fundraising event
CHARITYNEWS
The school holidays can be a time of great excitement for many children, but for some, it can be a time of uncertainty and hunger. Charities like Evesham Adventure Playground work hard to provide meals for those in need, with a ‘no questions asked’ policy. This means that no one should feel uncomfortable about asking for help.
www.herefor.gameswww.herefordshireboardgamers.co.uk
SOLID STATE STEPS OUT FOR RESEARCHCANCERUK MATCON SUPPORTS EVESHAM ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND PREPARE LUNCHES DURING THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS HEREFORDSHIRE BOARD GAMERS CELEBRATES 6TH BIRTHDAY!
Matcon has supported the charity since 2018 and we’re excited to get involved again this year with their Summer Lunch campaign. Through this program, Matcon volunteers will be helping to prepare lunches for children in need.
Solid State plc pledged to match the funds raised pound for pound by individuals, and the overall donation was a fantastic £3000 for this brilliant cause.
Herefordshire Board Gamers were thrilled to celebrate their 6th Birthday by bringing their incredible fundraising grand total to over £17,000. The charity were so proud to have raised a huge £6,000 last year to contribute to this impressive total. Donations contribute to the local community, including a £4,461 donation to Herefordshire Mind.
During lockdown, they started a free community ‘lending library’ which now has over 400 games, jigsaws and more. Another key focus area for the charity is educating people about this interesting hobby, with guides and articles for new gamers. The charity also share advice on inclusion, accessibility, and best practice to other communities. They are proud to be giving back in Herefordshire and would love support in order for them to continue to grow. As a volunteer-led, not-for-profit, they would love support in advertising, event sponsorship or raffle prizes as well as community partnerships.
On 28th June, Solid State plc staff undertook their annual charity challenge, this year raising money for Cancer Research UK. Employees from the Group, which includes Steatite, Solid State Supplies, Pacer, Active Silicon and Willow Technologies, were tasked with covering the virtual route between the company’s UK sites by walking, running or cycling for an hour to contribute to the combined distance of 575 miles over 8 Thecounties.challenge meant that all staff were able to participate wherever they were located. The team was blessed with warm, dry weather and took up the challenge with partners, children and dogs getting involved too! Together, the group accumulated 583 miles, meeting the target with some steps to spare.
Herefordshire Board Gamers is a gaming and fundraising community which provides a range of free events, both in-person and online, with a focus on providing a friendly, inclusive community.
“We know that many families struggle to make ends meet, and we are proud to help such a fantastic charity with a small part of their work. The biggest reward is to see the smiles on children’s faces when they enjoy a delicious lunch!” said Richard Kenney, Matcon Volunteer.
045Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
EMILY REGIMBEAU ADDS TO MFG’S RURAL AFFAIRS TEAM Solicitor Emily Regimbeau has joined the award-winning Agriculture and Rural Affairs team at mfg Solicitors. A specialist in rural property sales, easements and agricultural tenancies, Emily is reporting into partner and head of department, Iain Morrison. She said: “I’ve admired mfg’s reputation for many years and the agricultural team is seen as one of the best and most experienced in the UK. I am delighted to have joined Iain and the team at a time of huge change for farmers and the rural sector in general.” THEY BROKER IS GEARING
THURSFIELDS PROMOTES 12 LAWYERS TO RECOGNISE KEY STRENGTHS
UP FOR EXPANSION WITH ANOTHER NEW RECRUIT
This month, Hazelton Mountford on board Lydia Taylor as Senior Account Handler. Prior to joining the local Chartered Insurance Broker, Lydia has gained over 10 years’ experience in insurance, with a specialism in Schemes and Affinities, and completed a degree at Manchester University.
More about careers in insurance at Hazelton Mountford can be found here: www.hazeltonmountford.co.uk/careers-at-hazelton-mountford
MOVERSANDSHAKERS 046 September/October 2022
Top Midlands law firm Thursfields Solicitors has promoted 12 lawyers in recognition of their skills, hard work and client focus in the past year.
Hazelton Mountford have recently consolidated their efforts in recruiting new talent to their team – including launching a new employee benefits scheme and a Chartered Insurance Apprenticeship – and are delighted to extend a warm welcome to Lydia.
Lydia says: “Moving to Hazelton Mountford is definitely the best decision I could have made for myself. I am excited to continue my career in insurance with them all and relish the opportunities that the firm has to offer.”
&MOVERSSHAKERS
BRING TO THE FIRM THE GROWING LOCAL INSURANCE
Michelle O’Hara, managing director of Thursfields Solicitors, said: “We’re delighted to be making well-deserved promotions across the firm to recognise colleagues’ commitment to our clients at Thursfields. Other promotions include three lawyers who have become senior associates, and five who have become associates. They are: SENIOR ASSOCIATES Cerith Rees, Private Client Jill Roberts, Family Darren Cox, Residential Property NicolaAssociatesPearce, Commercial Property Andrew Piggin, Residential Property Reiss Taylor, Private Client Katherine Hall, Commercial Property Georgia Morris, Dispute Resolution Ms O’Hara added: “I want to congratulate all colleagues on their new appointments and thank them all for their contribution to Thursfields.”
Key promotions are Stewart Coles, Louise Jones and Laura Williams, who have all become directors in the firm’s Commercial Property, Residential Property and Family departments respectively, and Harbinder Gosal, who is now an associate director in the Family department.
CITY SIGNS EXPAND THEIR TEAM IN NEW GROWTH PHASE
MUSEUM INVITES BUSINESS COMMUNITY TO CELEBRATE WORCESTER’S PORCELAIN HERITAGE WITH NEW SHOWSTOPPER TRAIL
Darren Wilkins, Managing Director at City Signs says “We are delighted to welcome Lucy to the team, and I know her skills and experience will inject key resources into our service delivery. The last 12 months have been very successful due to the investment into our onsite print facility and in turn an increase in orders. We wish Lucy all the best in her new role, she’ll be a great asset to the business”.
City Signs, who are a second-generation signage business founded in 1960, has recently been shortlisted for numerous awards due to their family run ethos and professional service. As their environmentally friendly range of signage, display and vehicle livery products increases so too their strategic growth plan Specialisingcontinues.in high volume print, display and banners, City Signs pride themselves on a rapid delivery across the UK. Their commitment to the local community and charities is unwavering with further events planned at the end of For2022.more information about City Signs, Worcester’s leading signage specialist, please contact Darren on 01905 640007 or email info@citysigns.co.uk.
047Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Lucy Horton explains the reasons for the move to City Signs, “City Signs have a great reputation both locally as a business and as an expert in signage and display. They’re such a friendly family business so I’m thrilled to join the team. Many thanks for their warm welcome!”.
The Museum of Royal Worcester has set itself the delightful challenge of sharing Worcester porcelain’s pioneering story through 22 exceptional objects for 2022, that form a new Showstopper Trail launching on 28 September. They are showcasing the quality and excellence in art, design and enterprise within the Museum’s world-class collections to visitors and local communities. The physical and online Showstopper Trail will reveal rarely seen archive material, as well as sharing the people stories of innovation and skill on accompanying film Sophieclips.Heath, Museum Director explains “We’re inviting companies to share in and support the Museum’s work by sponsoring a Showstopper Pot on our Trail for a whole year for £500+VAT. By combining your brand with our city’s flagship heritage collection, you can enjoy a range of benefits and celebrate our porcelain heritage, local talent and creativity, that put Worcester on the world map. We’re excited to see which organisations choose which Showstopper Pots! Harrison Clark Rickerbys, Worcester BID, Anja Potze Fine Jewellery and Philip Serrell Auctioneers have already chosen theirs.” Find out more at showstoppermuseumofroyalworcester.org/ or contact Fiona Blake, Development Manager on 07938fiona@museumofroyalworcester.org,376965.
BUSINESSNEWS
City Signs welcome their newest recruit to their Head Office in Worcester, Lucy Horton as Office Administrator. The announcement comes as the company enters a new stage of growth and expansion due to new signage technology and services being added to their Lucyportfolio.Horton adds to City Signs internal customer service delivery and operational structure, as the investment in a new high tech signage print facility has driven an increase in sales in 2022.
3rd Place: Phil Price, John Bligh, James Masters, and Jordan Lockyer Julia Allen from Midlands Air Ambulance adds: “We are extremely grateful to Peter, Susan, Jennifer and the whole team at ISO QSL for supporting our pre-hospital emergency service by continuing to host their annual golf day to support our charity. Their continued support through raising vital funds and raising awareness within the business community will help fund future vitally important missions via our helicopters and critical care cars within the 6 counties that we serve. It was an honour to join ISO QSL and their keen golfers on the day and I’d like to thank everyone who attended for their support too”.
2nd Place: Chris Lown, Steve Knott, Jamie Woods, and Carl Sampson
FIRM
With the rise of costs within the manufacturing sector, it has been crucial for businesses to look to alternative funding. Herefordshire furniture maker ijlbrown acquired financial support to improve efficiency in the on-site workshop with a new Speed Sander. This funding was provided for through the Business Growth Programme, hosted by the European Union Regional Development Fund and Birmingham City Council.
Peter continues: “We’d like to give a special thanks to our sponsors Borwell, Sutcliffe & Co, Indegu, Haines Watts, Jonathan Lee Recruitment, Nicol & Co, Business Solutions Midlands and Assure Technical. Along with our raffle prize donors Browns at the Quay, Bolero Venues, Zentano, Midlands Air Ambulance, Worcester Warriors, Auto K, Cottage in the Wood Hotel & Restaurant, Bank House Hotel, Bransford Golf Club, Julian Powell from Hallmark Whatley Hulme Solicitors, Phil Price and John Bligh.”
The new sander machine is much more efficient and has allowed the team to reduce the number of processes and processing time in production. The machine is much wider, meaning that the team can sand an entire tabletop through in one go, rather than putting the tabletop through in two halves. The sander also offers the function of sanding veneered tops, which the team was not able to do previously. Through the access of this alternative funding, ijlbrown can expand their business exponentially.
1st Place: James Osborne, Jeff Osborne, Stewart Murdoch, and David Murdoch
A well-known recruitment firm has relocated to prominent self-contained offices in central Worcester with the support of commercialWorcestershire-basedpropertyconsultancy and Chartered Surveyors GJS Dillon.
If you missed out and would like to attend next years event, please email marketing@isoqsltd.com for further information.
are pleased to announce their recent charity golf day raised £2,500 in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, doubling last year’s achievement.
Hewett Recruitment is now based at The Avenue which is situated in the heart of Worcester city centre, close to both Worcester Foregate Street and Worcester bus station. The accommodation, which measures 803 sq ft, consists of open plan offices, a board room and meeting room and is part of a popular commercial Actingdevelopment.onbehalf of the client, Andrew Lewis, GJS Dillon’s Director of Commercial Agency negotiated the 18 month lease. Mr Lewis said ‘Worcester remains an attractive business location and unlike other cities, it has retained a strong community atmosphere. The City centre has proved popular with companies wishing to maintain a high street presence at a time when it has been more difficult to get in front of people’ Ben Mannion, Director at Hewett Recruitment said ‘The Avenue is perfect for our needs in that we have sufficient offices for staff and can make the meeting space available to our clients. Our central location makes commuting easier for everyone and we enjoy being part of the City’s business community. We’d like to thank GJS Dillon for their negotiations and support with the move’ GJS Dillon has been instructed to let additional office accommodation in the same building. The 365 sq ft open plan office has a further meeting room located off the main office space. Further information about Worcester commercial property to rent or for sale is available from Kyle Pugh on tel. 01905 676169 or email kylepugh@gjsdillon.co.uk or via www.gjsdillon.co.uk FUNDING GJS
BEST GOLF DAY BY PAR! IJLBROWN EXPANDS BUSINESS WITH EU
048 September/October 2022
The local ISO providers have been hosting their golf day for seven years now and it’s proved more popular than ever, attracting 40 Thegolfers.eventwas held at Bransford Golf Club, a stunning Florida-style golf course that offers a challenge to all levels of golfers. The day began with networking over bacon butties before heading onto the course for an 18-hole Stableford team Afterwards,competition.the golfers enjoyed a two-course meal at The Bank House Hotel where prizes were given to the winning teams:
BUSINESSNEWSISOQualityServices
RECRUITMENTHELPSDILLONLOCAL LOCATE TO CITY HOT SPOT
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These services can be accessed with one phone number for HR, Health & Safety, Legal and Tax advice – 01455 852 037, and one website for access to over 750 free downloadable template documents.
As a member you have free access to four essential services delivered by Quest.
When calling you will be asked to provide your name and company name. Provided by Quest your business benefits from comprehensive legal expenses insurance policy with a total of £1,000,000 excess free cover and £100,000 per claim. These services can help you resolve any issues that you have with HR and employment law, health & safety, legal or tax. However, you don’t have to wait until you have an issue or a serious problem before you call. The advice line will help answer any questions you may have.
Regardless of the healthcare benefits you choose, everyone covered will have access to:
049Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
As AXA’s UK health and wellbeing specialists, AXA Health will be your health partners to keep your business healthy and happy, and help your employees bring out their best selves. Whatever healthy looks like for you and your team, we’re here to help you get there, building a wellbeing culture throughout your organisation – no matter how big or small.
As a member you have free access to four essential services delivered by Quest:
It has been an honour to represent the Chamber over this period, not least because recent times have emphasised just how important the Chamber network is and continues to be. From the implications of Brexit to a global pandemic and now a cost of living – and in many cases a cost of doing business - crisis, the Chamber has been at the heart of lobbying local and national Government as well as providing advice and support to all its members. Furthermore, what became very clear during the pandemic was how effective the membership network is at supporting one another, sharing best practice and lending an advisory ear when needed.
“I look forward to meeting many of you in the coming two years of my Presidency and learn more about the challenges and successes that make these two counties, and your firms, a marvellous place to work.”
CHAMBER PRESIDENT
Whilst I would have happily continued as a Board Director, I am also a firm believer that change and different perspectives can offer huge value. In my opinion the fact that the H&W Chamber’s Board is refreshed by a new Director every 2 years is a real asset and why it is one of the best performing Chambers in the UK, often punching above its weight compared to larger Chambers. It is a pleasure to welcome Clive Brooks, MD of ABE (Ledbury) Ltd who will take over as Vice-President from Mark Smith of Lloyds Banking as he steps up to the role of AllPresident.thatremains for me to do is wish Clive and Mark the best of luck in their new roles and say a big thank you to the whole Chamber team, in particular
September 2022 marks the end of my 2 year tenure as President of the Chamber of Commerce and when I must step down from the Board of Directors after 6 years of involvement.
More recently I have worked with the Chamber Policy Team to raise support around employment opportunities for the scores of Ukrainian refugees that are coming to our 2 Counties due to the dreadful situation in their home country. This initiative is something I will continue to back as a Patron Member, along with my involvement in the local skills agenda which is a key pillar of the Chamber’s Business Manifesto.
Sharon Smith, CEO. It has been fantastic working with Sharon and she has led the Chamber brilliantly through a very challenging time. It’s with real pleasure that I pick up the reins from Ben, who has been tireless in supporting the Chamber and its members through many months of unchartered territory. I’m sure you’ll join me in wishing him well and we’ll look forward to his ongoing and active support of the Chamber in the coming years. Thank you Ben, you’ve left big shoes to fill! I adopt the Presidency in equally challenging times, with the prospect of supply chain fragility, skills and resourcing challenges and inflationary pressures all presenting hurdles in virtually all commercial sectors…and no crystal ball or magic wand in sight! And yet, the resilience of our businessfolk across the two counties continues to shine through with resourceful tenacity and a keen agility. In my ‘day job’, as a Commercial Relationship Director with Lloyds Banking Group, and after 40 years’ experience in financial services, I’ve come to appreciate that, as we work our way through this tough economic period, now is just the time to deepen and strengthen our links with each other across these two great counties. We’re stronger together, so please make the most of your Chamber; lean in to all the Chamber’s colleagues can do to support you and your team.
LASTWORD 050 September/October 2022
A FORPASSIONPEOPLE
Harrison Clark Rickerbys is a trading name of Harrison Clark Rickerbys Limited. “ “ When a relationship breaks down, emotions can run high and disputes often spiral out of control. When you need to move forward, we’re here to help. Anita Hennessey, Partner, Family Law 01905 744 536 | www.hcrlaw.com
Contact our Business Development team to find out how you can boost your business: 0330 135 6940 | employerenquiries@wcg.ac.uk WantAPPRENTICESHIPStogrowyourown 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. INDUSTRY PLACEMENTS Looking to recruit for the future? Offering an Industry Placement will allow you to trial the abilities of a potential employee or apprentice and are completely flexible, meaning you can vary them to suit your particular business needs. T NotLEVELSreadyto commit to an apprentice? The T Level programme allows you the opportunity to offer a 45-day industry placement to students looking to kickstart their careers. From September, WCG will be offering the following T Levels: • Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction • Digital Support Services • Engineering (Manufacturing, Design & Development) • Health wcg.ac.uk/worcsemployers BOOST BUSINESSYOUR
