Business Matters #05

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issue

05 MARCH 2011

businessmatters Quarterly Magazine of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Manufacturing leads the NW recovery

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The Big Interview

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The NW sees positive growth in domestic and export markets

Looking after clients crucial to business success

Growth in exports must be supported

Longer-term comparisons show satisfactory growth in exports

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West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

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businessmatters University of Chester Riverside Building, Castle Drive Chester CH1 1SL Telephone 01244 669988 Fax 01244 669989

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info@cepnwchamber.org.uk www.cepnwchamber.org.uk Registered Company No. 173634

Contributing Editor John Dean & Francis Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

Production & Design Distinctive Publishing 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Telephone 0191 4788346 production@distinctivepublishing.co.uk www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

Advertising Telephone 0191 4788300 alison.seymour@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

Disclaimer Distinctive Publishing or West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce.

CONTENTS 004 005 006 008 009 010 013 015 016

WELCOME NEWS NEWS CHAMBER NEWS DTM LEGAL BUSINESS NEWS 20 QUESTIONS INTERNATIONAL TRADE CHAMBER EVENTS

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BUSINESS NEWS THE BIG INTERVIEW DENBIGHSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL CHAMBER TRAINING PATRONS PAGE CHAMBER NEWS NEW MEMBERS MOVERS AND SHAKERS

CHESTER BOOKING LINE (01244) TO OPEN A PRIVILEGED BUSINESS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT PLEASE RING (01244) 400466 BM MAGAZINE 05.indd 3

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n WELCOME

In a difficult economic climate there has never been a better time to make use of your membership to the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce.

Whether its national representation through our sources at Welsh Assembly and Whitehall or regional representation through the Chamber Business Council YOUR chamber is here to support you.

With a new year comes a new approach to adding real value to the cost of Chamber membership. February sees the first of many FREE events brought to you by the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce as we begin to publish our events schedule for 2011. This will include a number of sponsored events as well as those in collaboration with our key partners – each will provide you as a member the opportunity to network as well as hear from key speakers in a number of different sectors. The Chamber is extremely excited about taking a fresh approach to giving the members what they need and all within the cost of their annual subscription.

Operations play a key part in this new year – the Chamber Team, supported by the strength of the Board of Directors are working to an ambitious growth plan which will see our membership numbers increase in the coming months, we would welcome the support of our membership in aiding us in our plans so please let us know if you are aware of any business that would benefit from becoming a member of our Chamber.

Staying with the theme of adding value I would encourage all members to actively use our new website – not only is this our main vehicle for communications but is also where you can find details of our training and events calendar for the year ahead. Have you got a news item that may be relevant to the membership? Have you a special offer you would like to provide other members? If so I would urge you to let us know, the Chamber is keen to build its communications on the information that you provide so please keep us up to date with what’s happening in YOUR business.

Finally I would like to thank each and every member for their loyalty to the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber, especially in these austere times. There really has never been a more important time to be part of a growing network of businesses dedicated to supporting each other. As we move into a new year we aspire to build on the excellent work undertaken in 2010. To do this we require your support and as such I request your continued involvement in Chamber activities in 2011

Colin Brew General Manager

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Architects scoop three awards Lovelock Mitchell Architects received three awards in the 2010 Civic Awards for Design and Conservation, held at Chester Town Hall.

The Awards were for: All Saints Church of England Primary School in Saughall – Civic Award for Community New Build.

The Orangery at Lyndhurst, Childer Thornton – Highly Commended Award in the Residential New Build and Alterations category.

Trafford House, Victoria Crescent, Chester – Commended for Residential New Build and Alterations.

Andrew Banks, Director of Lovelock Mitchell, who is picturedcollecting one of the awards, said: “We are very proud to have received these awards amongst stiff competition. Our company is a long-established architect’s practice based in Chester since 1862, and now has four Directors and employs 20 staff. We pride ourselves with providing the best possible architecture to the highest standards both here in the UK and abroad.”

The event was attended by Chester dignitaries including the Mayor of Chester and was sponsored by Cheshire West and Chester Council, The Chester Civic Trust and The Cheshire Society of Architects.

BCC: MPC must not raise rates until recovery is more secure Commenting ahead of Thursday’s Monetary Policy Committee decision, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “We expect the MPC to keep interest rates unchanged in January. But the recent worrying clamour for an early increase in rates is misguided and should be resisted. While the concern over inflation is understandable, there is no evidence for the view that early action is needed in order to restore the MPC’s credibility.

“A premature increase in rates, while fiscal policy is still being tightened, would worsen pressures on individuals and businesses. This could risk derailing the recovery and make it more difficult to implement the necessary deficit-cutting programme.

“Higher UK interest rates will likely be necessary later this year. But it is important for the MPC to wait until the economy has absorbed the initial impact of the fiscal austerity plan.”

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

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NEWS n

Understanding the mechanics of funding for businesses Alex Walters, Director of Commercial Banking for NatWest in Chester and Nantwich, explains the various funding options available for businesses looking to grow.

When talking about identifying the right types of finance, it is important to note that each SME is different and they have their own unique needs and requirements. It is easy for people to talk homogenously about funding without understanding the mechanics involved.

A lot is talked about with regards to the availability of finance for SMEs. When you place initiatives such as the government’s Enterprise Finance Guarantee Scheme (‘EFG’) and together with existing bank balance sheets and product sets, there is probably more finance options available to SMEs than ever before. For example NatWest have recognised the potential for new and growing firms in the franchise industry and are making £100 million of new loans available to the sector with discounted fees. The fund could finance up to 1,800 new franchise businesses and 24,000 new jobs (based on typical start-up costs and franchisees typically employing around 13 staff). New franchises will also benefit from 2 years free banking.

The most recent survey by NatWest and the British Franchise Association* shows why franchising has become so popular with Britain’s entrepreneurs. In the height of the economic downturn, the industry’s turnover increased to £11.8 billion - with 94% of franchisors optimistic about the future.

Today we see a greater combination of funding lines in support structures than before. People are mixing asset and invoice finance with debt, ensuring that they are correctly funded and using their capital wisely. It is very much a case of financial products moulding to the customer, rather than trying to mould a customer to the financial product. We also continue to operate in an environment of historically low interest rates, and this should continue to be a benefit to businesses for the foreseeable future.

At NatWest we have set out a customer charter for our SME customers. Our aim is to ensure that our dealings will be conducted in an open, focused and transparent way. It is not about changing our approach, it is about reinforcing our current policies and taking the opportunity to see what additional support can be provided.

Most successful businesses adapt, and this should include their approach to financing their business as well. SMEs need to get themselves fit and ready, a finance review can be part of this activity.

It is likely to be a slow climb out of recession without an immediate return to periods of strong rapid growth. However there does need to be caution with optimism. In recent times, a number of businesses have had to make painful decisions, but having gone through this,

they should now be in a better shape.

We seek to provide practical advice as well as finance support. We have launched our online business knowledge hubs, offering support and advice to avoid the pitfalls and plan for opportunities ahead. Here businesses can access interactive business reviews, economic reports and guides.

With pressures on cash flow it is understandable that businesses are addressing concerns about their balance sheets and looking to pay down debt as opposed to taking more on.

From our own perspective, as a bank we are approving 85% of all business applications for credit, nationally providing currently new loans to over 5000 businesses per week. Indeed to reemphasise the point that customers are not utilising agreed borrowing we have just under £50bn in credit facilities that remain undrawn by our business clients. This appears to show that nervous markets creates nervous investors, but I would advise that as a bank we have the capital to meet the lending commitments we have made, but the right amount of debt for business will be greatly influenced by the pace of economic recovery.

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n NEWS

Member to-member discount scheme is relaunched

Legal expenses cover saves member £10k A Company that successfully defended itself at an employment tribunal saved more than £10,000 in costs thanks to the free legal expenses cover given to all W est Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce members.

The Chamber is to revive its previously popular member-to-member discount scheme.

The initiative will enable Chamber members to offer exclusive discounts on their goods and services to fellow members.

The aim is to enable members to help each other in business.

Similar schemes have been shown to generate extra business for companies offering the discounts, thereby growing their customer bases.

Members are now being invited to get in touch with the Chamber about discounts or added-value offers.

Details of offers will be displayed on an under-construction page on the Chamber website.

Colin Brew, general manager said: “As well as enabling members to find some great deals, this scheme will also boost trade within the region by encouraging companies to ‘buy local’.

“It will also strengthen ties between Chamber members and act as the ideal shop window for anyone wishing to get the word out about a great deal or discount they’re offering.”

Call 01244 669988 or email info@cepnwchamber.org.uk to get involved in the scheme.

A disgruntled employee accused the firm of constructive dismissal and disability discrimination. The details of the case were that bosses undertook a risk assessment and bought equipment designed to help the employee, who requested to return to work following surgery.

After calling the Chamber’s 24/7 legal advice helpline, the company requested medical evidence to establish what the employee could and could not do on their return to work.

The employee then resigned, claiming the company had not made provisions for her return to work, despite being advised that it needed to know what her limitations were.

After a two-day hearing an employment tribunal found in favour of the company and the employee’s claims were dismissed. The defence of the claim incurred £10,777 in legal costs, which the company would not have been able to meet had it not been for the Chamber’s legal expenses policy.

Colin Brew, general manager at West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, said: “All of our members benefit from a free legal expenses insurance service, as well a access to a free legal helpline offering professional advice 365 days a year.

“Unfortunately no matter how well you plan and manage your business you never know when you are going to face unexpected, expensive legal fees. Free with your chamber membership is the peace of mind that comes with a legal expenses insurance policy.”

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Chamber members receive a policy covering their business for up to £65,000 worth of legal services. The equivalent entry-level open market premium for this level of cover is around £1,500 a year.

As well as employment disputes, which accounted for 74% of calls to the Chamber’s legal helpline from September-November 2010, West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce’s standard legal insurance service covers data protection, HMRC investigations, personal injury and several other areas.

The commercial property team recently acted for a small business, which called the Chamber’s advice line seeking help with a complex lease renewal involving a sublet building. Without the Chamber’s assistance, the client would not have been able to afford legal costs and would have had to accept a lease from the landlord with unnecessarily onerous terms.

Meanwhile, a food manufacturer referred to the Traffic Commissioner by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) for shortcomings in the maintenance of its fleet of commercial vehicles retained its operator’s licence after being helped by the Chamber’s licence protection team.

For more information on the service, go to http:// www.wcnwchamber.org.uk/member-benefits/ chamber-legal.htm

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

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NEWS n

Profitability and higher VAT main concerns for small companies

Pressure on profit margins and the recent increase in the top rate of VAT to 20% are regarded as the biggest threats for 2011 by British small business managers.

In a poll of decision makers from 500 small and medium sized enterprises, 43% saw reduced margins and profitability as a concern, with 17% seeing it as the main risk to their business in the coming year. Higher VAT was regarded as a threat by 39% of respondents, with 15% considering it to be the greatest hazard.

According to the survey, which was commissioned by TheCityUK, the independent body promoting UK-wide financial and related professional services, reduced cashflow was identified as a concern by 36% of respondents,

although only 9% saw it as the main threat.

However, cashflow worries were not linked to the availability of bank lending, as only 21% of those surveyed cited reduced lending availability as a potential problem.

The research also revealed that a reduced order book and the increasing impact of business regulation were key issues for 28% of small businesses, while 27% cited on-going shrinkage of the public sector as a threat.

Chris Cummings, chief executive of TheCityUK, commented: “There’s no doubt that 2011 poses significant challenges for small businesses which are the backbone of the national economy and employ over 13 million people. While lending was an issue that grabbed the headlines, the real obstacles to growth now need to be addressed.”

Cummings added: “Business has pressing concerns that must be heard if the private sector is to create the jobs and opportunities needed to take up the challenge of generating real growth and make sure the UK remains globally competitive.”

Publish your news in our next magazine Has your company got a success story to tell? Members’ news will be considered for inclusion in the next edition of the Chamber’s quarterly Business Matters magazine.

General manager Colin Brew said: “We’re always keen to hear about the successes of our members, from client wins to major orders and expansion into new markets or sectors.

“Particularly in these difficult times, it’s good to hear about companies that are thriving.”

Email your company news to info@cepnwchamber.org.uk, being sure to include a contact telephone number

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

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n CHAMBER NEWS

Manufacturing continues to lead the North West’s recovery In the latest Chambers of Commerce North West’s quarterly economic survey the North West’s manufacturing sector continues to lead the region’s recovery with another quarter of strong positive growth.

A total 1,415 businesses responded to this quarter’s survey, reinforcing businesses’ view of the importance of the survey and their desire to support the decision making process of Government and the Bank of England. Such is the demand for this survey the national results were presented to the Monetary Policy Committee on 20th December to ensure they can deliberate the results before setting interest rates on 6th January.

The report’s headline numbers disguise the fact that the region’s construction sector continues to struggle, and therefore the broad based manufacturing results understate the actual strength of manufacturers’ performance. Again exports dominate the manufacturing performance and the continued growth in demand has resulted in positive job creation in line with last quarter’s expectations.

Confidence remains positive, though there is a tough year ahead with the Government’s cuts and tax rises and this is expected to impact on profitability, along with raw material price pressures due to the exchange rate; the downside of a weak pound that has favoured exports.

The region’s service sector continues to see positive growth in domestic and export markets. Domestic sales weakened slightly, but there was a strengthening of export demand and as a result confidence has held up this quarter. Job creation continues to grow across the sector,

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though it is not yet meeting expectations. Although there are positive expectations to recruit in the coming quarter, the North West is likely to see a jump in the claimant count in the New Year, resulting from public sector losses and released seasonal workers, before falling again.

General Manager of the West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber commented “The region’s economy is showing signs that it may slow in the New Year, but we must focus on maintaining business and consumer confidence. The North West and North Wales has a particularly strong manufacturing sector and is well placed to overcome the challenges ahead as the economy rebalances towards the private sector. The service sector will also contribute to this recovery, these results showing that export market demand is increasing.

The report does include some disappointing results. Investment intentions remain weak, indicating that there is some capacity to absorb any increase in demand at this time and reflecting businesses’ concerns that demand will fall further in the New Year. Inflationary pressures are evident and appear to be as a result of the impending VAT increase and the intention to pass on the rise to customers. The economy will slow, though this is very much in line with Chambers’ expectations. We expect growth to continue, though this will be slower throughout 2011 than it has been towards the end of this year.

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

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n DTM LEGAL

Advising those looking to sell their business After a long haul of hard work and business building, many entrepreneurs see the sale of their business as the final hurdle before they can reap the rewards from their endeavours. Whether planning the sale right from the off, or taking an opportunity that presents itself, there are some simple measures that businesses can take to make the final hurdle a little less daunting.

The first piece of advice is to continue running your business as if you were keeping control of it for the long-term. Try to avoid making changes that look as if they are being made simply to help sell the business. Instead, make sure your house is in order before you begin any sale process as issues which arise during the process can cause delays and price reductions or retentions.

Buyers generally look at four aspects of a business: accounts, strategy, management and staff. However it is the legal and contractual arrangements for each that can make or break a deal or dramatically impact upon price.

Have your advisers do some pre-sale planning; consider the legal issues affecting all areas of the business, not just suppliers and customers but also employees, property issues and disputes. A buyer of shares will also check that tax affairs are up to date and have been dealt with properly. Getting it right from the start will save money as most buyers insist on contractual provisions making vendors liable for liabilities that arise after the sale.

“The North West and North Wales has a particularly strong manufacturing sector and is well placed to overcome the challenges ahead as the economy rebalances towards the private sector. The service sector will also contribute to this recovery, these results showing that export market demand is increasing.”

Finally, consider your intellectual property and ensure any proprietary knowledge is secure and transferable to the new owners. This means clarifying that any patents, trademarks and domain names are all registered with the proper authorities as all form an important part of a business’ value.

Whether you end up selling or not, the above issues are all important elements in protecting and enhancing a successful business. With some good housekeeping and planning ahead, the final hurdle can be an exciting part of the adventure rather than an expensive leap of faith.

For more straight talking, friendly and effective legal advice, follow DTM Legal’s Blog at www.dtmlegal.com/blog or contact a member of the team on 01244 354 800.

Julie Mogan Partner at DTM Legal

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

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n BUSINESS NEWS

Labour market figures show need to increase private sector jobs Commenting on the labour market figures published today by the ONS, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “Although these figures are disappointing, they were not as bad as some had feared. Once again, unemployment is up, employment is down, and the level of inactivity has recorded a large increase. It is particularly worrying that the number of people who are working part-time because they could not find a full-time job, and the number of young unemployed, both rose to the highest level since records began.

“The figures confirm that the economy is facing serious challenges over the months ahead, and we believe that UK unemployment will rise by a further 100,000 over the next year to around 2.6m. With private sector employment likely to decline, it is critical that every effort is made to

enable businesses to create jobs.

“The relatively low earning figures support our assessment that the squeeze on incomes will eventually dampen inflationary pressures.

A premature rise in interest rates in these circumstances would risk damaging the economy, and the MPC should wait until the recovery is more secure before considering an increase. On its part, the Government should ensure that the labour market remains flexible, and should avoid imposing onerous regulations on business.

“Research published earlier this week by the BCC shows that new employment laws would heap staggering additional costs of £23bn on UK firms over the next four years. Employers cannot be expected to help get these people into work if they are constantly being hampered by such burdens.”

Mediation v Litigation Based on an article by Talog Davies LL.B, a Senior Solicitor with GHP Legal and Associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Despite the Government’s recent focus on mediation, as an alternative to litigation, in reality this is not the case. Mediation, or in its wider sense, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), has been very much a part of the litigation framework for some time, and arbitration clauses in construction contracts have been around even longer.

Furthermore, long before the current “buzz” word was used to describe a route favoured by the Politicians as an alternative to litigation - to save the courts time and money - the courts were already emphasising the importance of considering mediation in the litigation process.

Mediation and litigation should therefore not be viewed as an either/or solution, but as processes both worthy of consideration in dispute resolution, within the same framework.

Getting across the merits of ADR can however be a major hurdle for commercial lawyers, as parties often still see ADR as a sign of weakness

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or a nebulous means to an unsatisfying end.

Yet the signs are that ADR not only works, but is positively flourishing - particularly in cases of commercial dispute resolution. Between 2007 and 2009 the London Court of Arbitration saw more than double the number of cases handled that way being resolved. During the same period, the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution saw the number of its mediations conducted up by 66%.

If parties feel aghast at the notion that they may be forced to compromise and will possibly have to pay their own costs as part of the deal, then there is still no absolute requirement to use ADR. It is however worth noting that those who completely dismiss the role that ADR plays in commercial disputes can be penalised in costs, unless they can show good reason to refuse to mediate. Refusing to consider mediation is therefore a high risk strategy. Moreover, simply paying lip service to mediation and going through the motions won’t do either.

Talog Davies

ADR in all its various forms is a compliment to the litigation process and in my experience works best when it is utilised early in the proceedings, before substantive pleadings polarise positions and costs become an issue in themselves.

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

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West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

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20 QUESTIONS n

20 Questions Interview Name: Kevin Curtis Job Title: Managing Director Company: DrivingMonitor Lives: Chester Q1) What brings you to the industry?

I’ve been in the software development market for about 20 years, with the web being the main focus for the last 10.

I get a real buzz from working online and developing web products as the industry is always evolving - I never get bored!

Q2) What advice would you give to anybody wanting to get into this industry?

Be prepared for change and expect to adapt to new mediums overnight.

Q3) What is the most important thing you look for in a new recruit?

It sounds obvious but good common sense, a lively personality and the ability to ‘make things happen’ is far more important to me than what skills or software knowledge someone has.

Q4) If you could employ anybody from the world of Business who would it be and why?

Branson - he has the amazing ability to overcome any obstacle!

Q5) As a business person, describe your three main qualities?

Determination, perseverance, passion.

Q6) And your worst quality?

Stubbornness.

Q7) What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

Winning a global brand client when we’re still a small business.

Q8) What do you always carry with you to work?

An iPad, an iPhone and a bottle of water.

Q9) Would you say you live for work or work to live?

Work to live - but these days I’m struggling to fit in the living bit!

Q10) Who is the most famous person you have ever met – what were they like?

Recently met Robert Llewellyn (played Kryten in Red Dwarf and also has series on Dave called Carpool), he seemed like a really enthusiastic and interesting character. He’s big into eco & green technologies so he was at an Eco show we were exhibiting at in Earls Court.

Q11) Who in your view is your industry’s role model and why?

There’s no real central ‘role model’ as such in our industry of driver risk management. Organisations such as Brake and the Roadsafe campaigns try to raise awareness for driver safety on UK roads.

Q12) What is your biggest achievement?

Becoming a supplier to companies such as Vodafone, Pepsico & Walkers.

Q13) What was your first job and the amount in your first pay packet?

I worked in publishing back in the early 90’s and we set the publication using scalpels & wax glue (before computers were widespread!) and I dread to think what I earned - maybe £12k?

Q14) If you could chose to work for any company in the world, which would it be and why?

Apple, I love their ideals and attention to detail.

Q15) If you won the lottery would you retire?

Nope - I would always want to channel my passions into some project.

Q16) Do you make time for lunch every day?

I eat lunch every day but not sure it’s taking ‘time out’ to eat it as I’m usually surfing the web whilst munching away.

Q17) What is a normal day for you?

Up, school run, emails, conf calls, skype, proposals on a Mac, possible meeting and then catch up with the team, home, spend some time with wife & daughter, read bedtime story, tea, exercise, more emails then bed.

Q18) If you could work in a completely different field, what would it be?

Carpentry. I love working with wood.

Q19) If you could turn the clock back, what would you have changed about your business career?

Taken more risks sooner and thrown myself into bigger challenges each day.

Q20) What hobbies do you have?

Photography, 7-a-side, illustration, cycling.

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

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West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE n

Thoughts for the new year Clive Drinkwater, International Trade Director, UK Trade & Investment It’s that time of year again when we consider what we have been doing and plan how we can do things differently in the coming year. As we look ahead to 2011, we have some uncertain economic times ahead but we are constantly being told that we should export our way out of the difficulties. It is something that I would of course advocate myself, but is it a realistic aim?

Well, as ever, I have a five point plan that businesses should follow to get on the road to international success: 1. Take advantage of the competitive pound. We have benefited from this for a couple of years now. There is evidence that it is beginning to work its way through into increased exports and you should look to take advantage of it yourself. Not that long ago the Dollar was at nearly 2 to the pound, now it’s at 1.55. The Euro was around 1.40, now it’s 1.18.

This puts you in a much better competitive position against your European and American counterparts.

Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia. Did you know that Qatar, Turkmenistan, Ethiopia and Mozambique featured in the top ten fastest growing economies of 2010? There is real growth in these economies and you need to have a strategy to capitalise upon the many opportunities there.

2. Seek out the sectors of growth. There are some industries which have hardly noticed a downturn and the year ahead promises real growth in: ●

Medical/Bio/Pharma

●

Energy

●

Environmental technologies

●

ICT

●

Digital/Creative

5. Use the New Year to sharpen your focus.

Go back and revisit your strategy and value propositions. Identify opportunities for your business and hunt them down ruthlessly. If you don’t your competitors will

3. Think about the European market on your doorstep. The last year has seen good growth in Germany, Sweden and Poland as well as some others. You will get the benefit of strengthening economies as well as the competitive pound.

4. You must look at the emerging markets of the world. Of course, you should look at Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC markets) but consider others such as Mexico, South Africa,

We are in a great position to achieve an export led recovery but it will not happen just by chance. Planning your business around emerging international opportunities is becoming ever more important. Consider my five point plan and see if you too can emerge at the end of 2011 as a growing successful international business.

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n CHAMBER EVENTS | NETWORKING

“Our aim is that Chamber events in 2011 become must-see, must-attend events that are fully subscribed”

New-look events for 2011 The Chamber is making significant changes to the events it holds. And it has abolished attendance fees for members at all events for the whole of 2011.

The previous format of low-key mainly breakfast seminars is being dropped in favour of less frequent, prestigious events that educate, entertain and engage.

The 2011 programme is now being finalised and will be published before the end of January.

New events will include presentations by prominent businesspeople in the region who share the secrets of their success with Chamber members.

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They will also include seminars with academics and other acknowledged business experts who will share their knowledge to help Chamber members revitalise and improve the way they run their businesses and make money.

factor to our loyal members. We will be focusing on quality rather than quantity.

The abolition of attendance fees gives greater added value to Chamber members in return for their membership fee.

“Places will be given to members at all our events from now on.”

General Manager Colin Brew said: “We will be using our resources and access to our significant contacts to give more of a ‘wow’

“Our aim is that Chamber events in 2011 become must-see, must-attend events that are fully subscribed.

The Chamber’s full programme of events will be unveiled at the end of January. Check our events calendar on the Chamber website for further details – www.wcnwchamber.org.uk

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CHAMBER EVENTS | NETWORKING n

Have Your Say Do you prefer business breakfasts or evening networking events?

Are factory tours or listening to guest speakers your thing? The Chamber has lined up some events for 2011 already, and would like your views on what else you would like to see in the programme.

Email info@cepnwchamber.org.uk with your suggestions or click here for details of forthcoming events http://www.wcnwchamber.org.uk/ training-and-events

UK International Trade Seminar 16th March 2011 Have you considered expanding your business into international markets?. “http://campaign.mavada.com/t/r/i/wttddk/l/x” UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) works with UKbased businesses to ensure their success in international markets, and encourage the best overseas companies to look to the UK as their global partner of choice.

The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with UK Trade & Investment are holding a breakfast seminar for Chamber members on 16th March 2011 between 8.30am and 10.30am at the Mollington Banastre Hotel, Parkgate Road, Saughall, Chester CH1 6NN.

The event is open to all Chamber members and especially those who feel that expansion into international markets would be beneficial for them. The event will include a hot breakfast buffet, the opportunity to network with other Chamber members and there is no charge to attend. Spaces are limited so we would advise to book early to avoid disappointment.

If you would like further details or to book your place please contact the Chamber Team on 01244 669988 or alternatively email info@ cepnwchamber.org.uk or “http://campaign. mavada.com/t/r/i/wttddk/l/m” to visit the website

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n BUSINESS NEWS

Chamber Website What can you offer it and what can it offer you?

The Chamber has invested heavily in its new website and is seeking support from Members to maintain a site that adds real value to the cost of membership.

Do you have an interesting news story about your business that you would like to share?

Do you have a special offer you would like to pass on to your fellow members?

Is there something you want to tell others aout?

If so then PLEASE let us know - send your updates to us and we shall ensure that they are featured on the website for all to see Just contact the team on info@ cepnwchamber.org.uk or call on 01244 669988

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Unprecedented acclaim for Grosvenor Grosvenor is a record-breaking Garden Centre, having achieved Garden Centre of Excellence status for an 11th year in succession.

and providing customers with outstanding service, a high quality range of products and expert knowledge.

Following an annual audit from the UK Garden Centre Association which ensures that only the very best garden centres in the country receive this prestigious award, Grosvenor was delighted to be presented with the accolade at the annual Garden Centre Association Conference.

“Grosvenor is always a joy to visit and the fact that they have once again proved to be one of our highest scoring centres is testament to their expertise at providing an exceptional customer experience. To receive the unique accolade of achieving this status for 11 years in a row is a remarkable achievement and I am delighted to congratulate Grosvenor on their great success,� commented Gillie Westwood, chief executive, Garden Centre Association.

Members of the Garden Centre Association are located in the UK and Northern Ireland with only the centres who receive top marks named Garden Centres of Excellence. This honour is attained for consistently excellent standards

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BUSINESS NEWS n

Strong manufacturing figures HaveUK recovery is set to continue show Your Say

Commenting on the manufacturing PMI survey published today, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said: “These figures are stronger than expected and confirm our assessment that Britain’s economic recovery is likely to continue, despite the disappointing decline in GDP in the fourth quarter of 2010.

This new data also supports the BCC’s own quarterly survey published last month, which showed the recovery is still mainly being driven by manufacturing. It is also encouraging to see employment in the manufacturing sector at a record high.

“However, the recovery is fragile, especially as the austerity programme is now being enforced.

We believe that the government must persevere with its deficit-cutting plan to stabilise our public finances. But this must be supplemented with policies to support growth, while the MPC should maintain low interest rates for some time.”

Low Value Construction Tender Framework Events - for General Building Contracts

The Chester Grosvenor and Spa’s team are celebrating after winning another accolade for the food served in the luxury hotel’s restaurant.

La Brasserie, the five star hotel’s Parisian style restaurant, has just been awarded two AA Rosettes.

Cheshire West and Chester Council are launching a new Low Value Construction Framework for general building, aimed to be in place by autumn 2011.

To raise awareness of this Cheshire West and Chester Council’s procurement team are hosting three supplier network events targeting General Building Contractors to inform them of how to bid to be part of this.

The framework will be for 4 years and will select suppliers to carry out General Building Works throughout the Borough; this will consist of a number of Lots, with various value bandings.

These free events will be held at the following venues and light refreshments will be provided, advisors from Business Link will also be in attendance to offer wider business support:

Wednesday March 9th Registration 4pm - 4.30pm Start: 6.30pm Ellesmere Port Boat Museum

Wednesday March 16th Registration 7.30am 8am Start:10.30am Chester HQ Building, Nicholas St

For more information regarding the Chest take a look at www.thechest.nwce.gov.uk To book on one of the free suppliers events contact Clare Huber in the Procurement Team on 01244 972765 or email clare.huber@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

Thursday March 17th Registration 4pm - 4.30pm Start: 6.30pm Northwich Memorial Hall All tenders will be advertised on ‘Due North’ the Council’s electronic tendering system, in an area called “The Chest”. Tender documents and supplier responses are handled electronically, this allows a shorter procurement timescale and a more efficient process overall. Local suppliers will be invited to choose to bid on one or all of the available lots.

The Chester Grosvenor and Spa’s team win another accolade

The latest announcement means The Chester Grosvenor and Spa is now the only establishment in the north west to have a total of six AA Rosettes.

The fine dining restaurant ‘Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor’ has four AA Rosettes and a Michelin star.

John Retallick, La Brasserie’s head chef, said: “It’s simply brilliant to get the second AA Rosette. It’s down to a lot of hard work from everyone in the team and attention to detail. We have really raised the bar.”

The AA Rosettes are prestigious food accolades recognising excellence in restaurants and hotels.

Managing director Jonathan Slater said: “This is a terrific commendation for the team in La Brasserie. I’m extremely proud of them.”

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n THE BIG INTERVIEW

BIG THE

INTERVIEW

Richard Thomas Partner, DTM Legal LLP

Looking after clients crucial to business success In challenging economic times, the companies that succeed are the ones that value the importance of building relationships with their clients. That is the view of Richard Thomas, Partner in DTM Legal LLP. Also Vice Chair of the Chamber withresponsibility for North Wales, Richard believes that while 2011 will be a tough year for business, there is cause for some optimism, although the Government should do more to help businesses.

Born and brought up in North Wales, his varied path to a career in the legal profession began when he studied law at Aberystwyth University then attended Law College in Chester.

He said: “Before securing articles of clerkship, I experienced many different walks of life including being unemployed, telesales, bar work, transporting new cars around the country and sorting the post for the Royal Mail. I was ultimately fortunate enough to secure articles of clerkship, the two-year training period for solicitors, with the utility company Manweb Plc.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW n

“The quality of work I experienced at Manweb was beyond my expectations and I was able to assist with and advise upon contracts with many blue chip companies. The joy of advising on such contracts for a major PLC was that you were able to properly negotiate terms and you were not simply dictated to by the IBM’s of this world.”

He believes that the breadth of those early experiences has been crucial in shaping his approach to business.

He said: “Working in an in-house legal department provided tremendous insight into the “real world” of commerce and industry.

This enabled me to develop my legal skills to ensure that the commercial aim is always at the forefront when considering the legal issues. No commercial enterprise welcomes a “you can’t do that” attitude from its legal advisors and will expect a positive, constructive approach to the legal advice provided. Even in this day and age that is not always the case.”

Having qualified as a solicitor, he moved into private practice and pursued a career in commercial litigation.

He said: “The one piece of advice that has always stood me in good stead in my legal career was received early on and it was to make oneself indispensable. This led me down the path of insolvency work as the firm where I worked did not undertake any work of that nature and I developed an insolvency practice from scratch.

“Egged on by colleagues I, somewhat naively, decided to take the examinations to qualify as a licensed insolvency practitioner. Having promised myself I would never study again after my law exams, studying to become an insolvency practitioner made me appreciate why I had made that promise. There was clearly a lack of insolvency practitioners around at the time as I was able to pass the exam and whilst I do not use the qualification to seek appointments as liquidator or trustee in bankruptcy etc, it does make it look as if I know what I am talking about when advising on insolvency.”

Having been one of the owners of Chester’s largest law firm for five years, he, with colleagues, decided to put his experience to use by creating a new commercial law firm, DTM Legal, in 2008.

He said: “Having set up at the height of the recession, the growth of the firm, doubling in size in the first year, was beyond all expectations. However, the recession is affecting all sectors including the law with even big name firms going under. The current signs in the legal sector indicate that the recession is some way from over. “With SMEs unable to easily access funding from the banks, commercial activity that requires legal advice is stifled. Until someone takes a lead and starts lending in order to stimulate that commercial activity then a sustainable recovery is still on the horizon as opposed to round the corner.

“Whilst DTM has not been immune to the effects of the recession we have maintained a focus on our core markets and core strengths to ensure that the firm is in a position to meet the challenges of the recession head on. Any law firm should be able to provide legal advice but DTM develops relationships with its clients so as to properly understand their business and ensure that the legal advice we provide is tailored to meet that client’s business needs.

“In a hamstrung commercial market, 2011 is going to be an extremely challenging year with the main challenge being getting work in through the door. However, with DTM’s reputation for the quality of service provided and the strong relationship we develop with each client, we are extremely well placed to maximise our share of the SME legal market.

With plans currently being implemented to open a new office in St Helens and the launch or our new website, 2011 is going to be an interesting and exciting year for DTM Legal.”

He also values his role as Chamber of Commerce Vice Chair with responsibility for North Wales and again he comes back to the breadth of experience he has attained during his career.

He said: “Whilst some may view an insolvency specialist taking a lead role in the Chamber of Commerce as something of a contradiction, I believe an understanding of the real life practical difficulties and potential consequences faced by businesses in this economic climate enhances the Chamber’s offer to its members.

“Being born and bred in North Wales I have a particular personal interest in that area and the Chamber recognises that it has a lot of work to do in North Wales and I am certainly up for that challenge.

“With the Welsh Assembly Government effectively moving away from direct business development support and placing itself in the position of creating the appropriate conditions for the private sector to create economic growth, it is up to organizations like the Chamber of Commerce to challenge the Welsh Assembly Government to ensure the best possible conditions for economic growth are delivered.

“Further, the Chamber needs to bring all economic stakeholders together to work cohesively to maximize that economic growth and the Chamber has made great strides in that direction already with the setting up of the Chamber Business Council where Welsh Assembly Government, local authorities, institutions of higher and further education and business leaders meet regularly to deal with practical issues affecting economic development. I hope I can bring my legal, commercial and business recovery experience to bear in this context and help the Chamber’s members maximize their economic potential in these difficult times.”

Richard Thomas

“The one piece of advice that has always stood me in good stead in my legal career was received early on and it was to make oneself indispensable”

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n DENBIGHSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

A steamy affair

By Mark Dixon, Principal Regeneration Manager, Denbighshire County Council Drivers on the A55 at Rhuallt Hill are for the most part blissfully unaware of the goingson just off the trunk road at Junction 28.

This is the site which has been chosen by a consortium of three local authorities (Conwy, Denbighshire and Flintshire) to house a treatment plant which will process all their food waste for the next fifteen years or more.

The digestion technology involved produces a lot of surplus energy and whilst some of this is used to generate electricity which is sold back to the National Grid, there will still be a further 6,500 MWh per annum of surplus heat available from the process which could be put to good use. To put this into context, it would be enough heat to meet the annual needs of two pools the size of Rhyl Suncentre!

With its easy access to the A55 and a plentiful supply of cut price energy, the adjacent site which is also in Council ownership would be very attractive to a business looking for a location which meets these requirements.

The site has an area of about 1ha suitable for B1, B2 or B8 use (light or general industry or warehousing) and a paddock of about 0.6ha.

There are some fairly recent steel frame

buildings on the site including a 200 sq m office block, a 1780 sq m industrial unit and a 990 sq m barn.

The surplus energy from the waste treatment plant would come in the form of hot water at 91C and the supply would be constant all year round. Because the site is right next to the treatment plant, the heat loss from transporting the hot water would be negligible as it has to travel 1km before its temperature drops 1C. The proximity to the waste plant is however not

something which makes the site unattractive as odours are eliminated by a negative pressure system and carbon filtration in the waste reception building.

This is a unique opportunity in the Chamber area for businesses requiring low cost green energy and easy access to the transport network and any businesses interested in finding out more about the site should contact Jim Espley at Denbighshire County Council.

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CHAMBER TRAINING n

Learning for growth The department for Business Innovation and Skills has issued new information about business growth, especially recognising small business growth is vital to the UK economy.

Growth is the main focus, have you got the potential for growth?

How can you grow, what percentage growth can you achieve, how fast can you grow, where is your growth potential?

High growth firms are creating around half of all net employment growth amongst established businesses.

This is between 5-8% of all private sector jobs.

Are you ready to employ more staff, if so - are your recruitment skills ready?

Evidence shows that 67% of small firms have an aspiration to grow over the next 2-3 years.

Have you got the right skills in your company for growth?

The Chamber of Commerce can tailor a growth plan for your company from:

identifying how to grow,

ensuring your staff are skilled and ready

that you have support structures in place for rapid growth

assisting managers lead for growth

We are a highly qualified team who know the present business challenges since we are all business owners too!

Call us on 07855 311393 to discuss you rapid Growth plan...don’t wait

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n PATRONS NEWS

The Chamber is proud to have the following organisations as its Patrons.

You can now find the details of all our Patrons on our new website. Follow the links to each of their home pages and find out more for yourself.

Chamber Patrons and Strategic Members Cheshire West and Chester Council 2009–10 was an eventful first year for Cheshire West and Chester Council. We established ourselves as an ambitious, innovative and bold unitary authority that leads the way. We have taken significant steps towards meeting our aspirations and those of businesses, providing quality value-for-money services, often by adopting a fresh approach.

The regeneration of four areas is a key priority. These are: • The Weaver Valley Partnership • Ellesmere Port

• Chester Renaissance • Rural Agenda and Market Towns

By listening to businesses and embracing ideas, we have put in place building blocks that position Cheshire West as a great place with a great future.

www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk DrivingMonitor DrivingMonitor helps organisations meet their duty of care obligations by managing employees who drive on company business. The company has been assessing drivers over the internet for the past 8 years and works with businesses from 5 employees to tens of thousands. With head offices near Chester, DrivingMonitor deploys its software all around the UK and also works with the DVLA to check employee driving licences. DrivingMonitor is an innovative technology-based business that aims to use the internet more effectively and help organisations manage its driver risk and ultimately save money, reduce accidents and lower insurance premiums.

www.driving-monitor.com Hill Dickinson Lawyers The Hill Dickinson Group offers a comprehensive range of award-winning legal services from offices in Liverpool, Manchester, London, Chester, Sheffield, Piraeus and Singapore.

Collectively the firms have more than 1,300 people including 190 partners.

Hill Dickinson is a major force in insurance and well respected in the company and commercial arena. It has an award-winning property practice and is internationally renowned for its marine expertise. The firm is widely regarded as a leader in the fields of commercial litigation, employment, intellectual property, NHS clinical/health-related litigation and wealth management.

www.hilldickinson.com West Cheshire College West Cheshire College was the first college in the NorthWest to achieve the Training Quality Standard Award with excellence in engineering. The award reflects our commitment to working closely with local employers to offer the courses they need and providing candidates to fill their vacancies.

West Cheshire College offers apprenticeships and fast-track apprenticeships, access to the NHS Academy Cadet Schemes and a range of professional development courses, including HR, IT and accountancy. West Cheshire College has a flexible approach to training and ensures that solutions fit our clients’ requirements, providing enhanced business performance, increased staff motivation and retention and improved skill levels within your workforce.

www.west-cheshire.ac.uk

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CHAMBER NEWS n

Growth in exports must be supported

Small firms face fines for poor bookkeeping Howard Worth Accountants are warning that around 50,000 small businesses are set to be targeted annually by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) amid concerns that their bookkeeping is not up to scratch.

HMRC is targeting firms which it believes have underpaid tax because they have not kept the correct records, with fines of up to £3,000 in the pipeline for firms where HMRC finds significant problems.

It’s aim is to improve record-keeping in the 40 per cent of small firms where it believes procedures are currently inadequate.

Commenting on the trade figures for November published today by the ONS, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “These figures are mixed with a slight increase in the overall size of the trade deficit. But the underlying trends are positive, with the volume of exports rising at a faster rate than the volume of imports in November.

“Longer-term comparisons show satisfactory growth in exports, but the pace of recovery is still not strong enough. The impressive recovery in manufacturing output that we have seen over the past year has not yet been reflected

in a major improvement in international trade.

Since the Government’s austerity measures will inevitably dampen domestic demand, a substantial boost in exports is a key component in any UK recovery.

“The Government must ensure that British exporters do not face competitive disadvantages in key areas such as short-term trade finance.

On their part, Trade exporters must reinforce their efforts to move into fast-growing emerging economies such as India and China. It is risky for the UK to rely excessively on the Eurozone given the problems its faces as a result of the sovereign debt crisis.”

MPC should postpone interest rate Commenting on the inflation figures for January, published today by the ONS, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “The increase in inflation to 4% was exactly as most analysts expected, and there was even some relief in the markets that the outcome was not worse. The present situation is uncomfortable for the MPC. But, in the face of higher taxes, increased utility bills, and surges in food and energy prices, it is still likely that consumer price inflation will increase towards 4.5% before it stabilises.

“We believe that a premature hike in interest rates would make no difference to inflation in

the short-term, but would put the recovery at risk. It would also make it more difficult for the Government to implement measures aimed at cutting the deficit. Raising interest rates at a time when fiscal policy is being tightened will heighten pressures facing businesses and individuals. Over the medium term, the MPC is right to assume that inflation is likely to fall gradually towards its 2% target.

Chris Smith from Howard Worth said “The 2008 Finance Act gave HMRC the power to investigate business records – a process which will begin in the second half of 2011 for up to 50,000 small businesses each year.

HMRC is currently consulting on how to implement the proposals and the exact nature of the penalty regime”.

HMRC has said that forcing smaller firms to keep better records would benefit them in the long term, as it would improve their wider financial management and reduce the chance of a compliance inspection.

A full investigation or even an enquiry by HMRC into a firms business can be time consuming and costly. If HMRC do find that additional tax is due as a result of errors made, this may enable them to look at prior and later years. This could result in significant tax liabilities arising, as well as interest charges and penalties being imposed.

For more information, or advice on how to improve your bookkeeping procedures and how to deal with HMRC should they seek to look into your business, please contact us.

Tel: 01606 369000 Email: chrissmith@howardworth.co.uk www.howardworth.co.uk

“We believe that interest rates will probably have to rise later this year, but it is critical that the MPC waits until the initial impact of the austerity measures have been absorbed.

Considering an increase in interest rates before the middle of the year would be a mistake.”

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Cheshire PBS Mid Cheshire Chartered Accountants Complete Payroll And Business Service Cheshire PBS is a small friendly and efficient business.

Our Chartered Accountant has over 25 years knowledge and experience and oversees ALL his clients personally.

Our small but approachable workforce means you will always be able to speak to someone who knows and understands you and your business.

Our expertise and knowledge will assist you within your business ambitions and ultimate goals both in the short and long term.

Along with your Accountancy requirements Cheshire PBS can provide all or any of your administration needs.

Call for an informal chat to realise your business potential whilst we deal with all the ‘behind the scenes’ problems on your behalf.

Self Assessment And Corporation Tax Let Cheshire PBS Help You Get Through The Tax Minefield None of us look forward to the prospect of completing our Tax Returns, but is a necessity of being in business.

Why not let Cheshire PBS relieve you of that headache and worry by completing your Return for you.

Our Chartered Accountant has the knowledge to benefit your overall Tax Liability. As your agent we have the ability to deal with HMRC directly. We will make sure you claim for all your allowances and the return is completed corrected and filed on time.

Bookkeeping And VAT From the information you provide, we will produce an accurate record of sales and expenses.

We can determine the VAT content of both input and output monies and advice on the most effective VAT scheme for your business to keep the payments as low as possible.

We can reconcile the bank and if required produce an analysis of the complete expenditure against all sales income.

At the end of your financial year we will

produce and present the Annual Accounts for your business.

We can help with VAT registration and then as your agent we will calculate your VAT liability/refund on a quarterly basis and file same to HMRC. This will reduce the time and headaches of administration on your part, enabling you to concentrate on the all importance of the practicalities of running your business.

Cheshire PBS Complete Payroll And Business Services We will run your payroll for you, whether your employees are salaried, paid hourly, either weekly or monthly.

We will complete your Year End and file same online to HMRC and produce P60s for your employees.

We will calculate all remunerations due following the deduction of Tax, NI, SSP, SMP, Student Loans, Pensions and Benefits.

We can also file P45s and P46s online for you.

We will inform you of when and how much PAYE is due to HMRC including ant CIS vouchers.

Come Friday night both you – the employer and your employees can finish for the weekend, safe with the knowledge your payroll is complete.

Tel: 01829 760256

MARY.LANCASTER@CHESHIREPBS.CO.UK

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NEW MEMBERS n

New Members

For more information on chamber membership contact 01244669988 or visit www.cepnwchamber.org.uk

Aticus Recovery Regus House Herons Way Chester Business Park Chester CH4 9QR

Pinacle Solutions UK Ltd Perseus House Carlton Court St Asaph Business Park St. Asaph LL17 0JG

07768012718 /01244893710

01745535300

info@aticus.co.uk www.aticus.co.uk

enquiries@pinaclesolutions.com www.pinaclesolutions.com

Joining Date 03-Dec-10 Chartered Accountants Specialising in corporate rescue turnaround & Insolvency

Joining Date 16-Dec-10 Design, delivery and support on intergrated business communication solutions for voice, data and video conferencing

Proactive Gas Safety Ltd 15 Bramalls Park Anderton Northwich CW9 6AH

Uniti Solutions Ltd 3 Broadlake Willaston Neston CH64 2XB

01606 872864

07712200513

admin@proactivegassafety.com www.proactivegassafety.com

info@uniti-online.com www.uniti-online.com

Joining Date 09-Dec-10 Compressed gases & Equipment safety training

Joining Date 17-Dec-10 Consultancy, training and development

Classfree Ltd Engineer Park Sandycroft Deeside CH5 2QB

Transport Door Solutions Ltd No 6 Unit 3 Ion Path Road One Winsford Industrial Estate Winsford CW7 3PZ

01244 531652 info@thecircuit.co.uk www.thecircuit.co.uk Joining Date 16-Dec-10 Indoor karting Centre

01606 557114 john@cheshirevehiclewindows.co.uk www.transportdoorsolutions.co.uk Joining Date23-Dec-10 After market support for Spare Part, Servicing, Training and Preventative Maintenace for Bus and Coach Industry

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n MOVERS AND SHAKERS

Learning to Aspire wins award Jane Douglas and Jo Lord, Directors of leadership and personal development consultancy Learning to Inspire were recently presented with the much coveted Gold Award Investors in People accreditation.

Steven is pictured (left) with executive chef Simon Radley

The rise & rise of Steven Worth A chef at The Chester Grosvenor and Spa, who was promoted through seven ranks from commis chef to senior sous chef in just three years, was made ‘Employee of the Year’.

Steven Worth, 24, of Chester, operates The Westminster Suite kitchens preparing wedding breakfasts, working lunches for executives using the boardroom and creating fine dining experiences for hotel regulars.

His meteoric rise through the ranks began when he started work at the five star hotel, with its Michelin-starred ‘Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor’ restaurant, in February 2007.

Investors in People represents the prestigious national benchmark of good practice, setting the standard for organisations to improve their business performance, and the Gold Award is the highest achievement that can be awarded as part of the scheme.

Jo Lord, Director at Learning to Inspire adds: “We are thrilled to receive the Gold award. To secure Investors in People recognition is an achievement in itself, but to then have secured the highest possible level attainable makes us very proud indeed. As we specialise in learning and personal development, the accreditation is particularly pertinent.”

Established in 2000, Learning to Inspire, based in Dodleston, Chester provides a wide range of open and in-house leadership and personal development courses for businesses across Wales and the NW of England.

For more details on Learning to Inspire, and their courses visit www.learningtoinspire.co.uk

Steven has worked his way up from one of the most junior ranks in the kitchen to one of the most senior, making him the most rapidly promoted chef at The Chester Grosvenor and Spa in at least 20 years.

As ‘Employee of the Year’, Steven has won a three night break, for two people, from the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, inclusive of return travel, breakfast and dinner each day.

Steven said: “I was so pleased just to be nominated for, never mind win, ‘Employee of the Year’. I can’t believe it because I’m just doing my job. I’m probably going to take a golfing holiday as my prize and take one of my friends along. I’m really looking forward to it.”

Paul is appointed Chester-based Reckless New Media has appointed Paul Canning to its development team Paul has been working on a number of existing projects since just before the end of 2010. He already has four projects under his belt and is currently developing his fifth.

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