Norfolk Voice #2

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norfolk

Still packing a punch The countryside is fighting back in the face of recession

Explore the Forum

Farming

Unique opportunities for your business

Making sure the rural economy is not forgotten

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce The Ultimate Business Network

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CONTENTS

Contents.

03 04 05

Chamber News

07

Chamber News

08 09

Business News

12 13

Chamber News

15

A very happy New Year to you all after a well-deserved festive break.

I hope you enjoyed the first issue of our new-look magazine. We’ve had some fantastic feedback from many people who said the design and content were spot on. In this next issue we are keeping up the good work to bring you more interesting and relevant articles and information that will help your business as we face another year and another set of challenges.

The Big Interview (page 22) features Deb Jordan, co-owner and driving force behind the hugely successful Pensthorpe Nature Reserve and Gardens. We also look at Kettle Foods (page 16) and their rise to national and international success. The sector focuses are on manufacturing and conferences, so there is plenty to think about as we go into 2011. Also, The Last Word (page 50) asks some searching questions of Christine Frazer, Business Services Director at Aviva. And, when you’ve had your fill of business, you can turn to our Take a Break section (page 44) for laughs, puzzles and competitions.

If you want to feature in Norfolk Voice, we are always on the look-out for interesting stories, ideas and initiatives. So please send any contributions and images to magazine@norfolkchamber.co.uk.

Also, it would be great to have your feedback or views on Norfolk Voice.

So read on…and enjoy!

Welcome/Contents

16 17

The romantic story of a business success

19

Chamber Events

21

Chamber Events

22 23

The Big Interview

24 25

Making sure the rural economy is not forgotten

28 29

Manufacturing – the new age dawns

34 35

A unique mix of business opportunities

36 38

Chamber News

37

Chamber Savings

43

Training

44 45

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

24

Take a Break

47

New Members

49

Business News Extra

50

The Last Word

28

Norfolk Voice is a Norfolk Chamber of Commerce publication.

All editorial and general enquiries: info@norfolkchamber.co.uk Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Norwich Office: 9 Norwich Business Park, Whiting Road, Norwich NR4 6DJ Tel: 01603 625977 Fax: 01603 633032 King’s Lynn Office: St.Ann’s House, St. Ann’s Street, KIng’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1LT Tel: 01553 770880 Fax: 01553 769322 Great Yarmouth Office: Beacon Innovation Centre, Beacon Park, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR31 7RA Tel: 01493 448023 Fax: 01493 448025

Caroline Williams CEO

22

International Trade

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0191 4788300 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING Helen Longley, Business Development Manager, Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0191 478 8480 Fax: 0191 478 8301 email: helen.longley@distinctivepublishing.co.uk FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss email:deangriss@btinternet.com E-BOOK www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk/publications

DISCLAIMER Distinctive Publishing or Norfolk Voice 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 Norfolk Voice.

CHAMBER’S GOLD PATRONS

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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NORFOLK VOICE

Are you on track with customer service?

Tycoons START baking. n Richard Courridge, Corporate Services Director Norfolk Chamber, with Tycoon students at START, The Forum.

Barry Dennis President of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce I was listening to the radio the other day where a woman was talking about how she stood in front of a train to protest against the way she and her family had been treated by railway staff.

I’ve always been passionate about customer service, thanks to the values of bosses I worked for in my early career. “Never forget son, the customer pays your wages,” and “Successful business is all about repeat business. ” These messages have stuck in my head.

Lots of organisations claim they really care about customers. You will see notices in reception areas and on web sites extolling the virtues of their customer service. But often that’s where it ends.

I was recently in the market for a new television. My dilemma was understanding the difference between plasma, LED and LCD so off I went to a well known Norfolk business that had a reputation for customer service. On arrival I spotted a sales person who was on the internet. I got his attention and asked what the difference was between the three. He said it depended on what I wanted. To watch telly, of course! He pointed out that plasma was more expensive to run. How much more expensive? He started quoting technical terms about electricity. How much to run per hour? He didn’t know. To cut a long story short I came away very confused. Not surprisingly I bought the TV elsewhere.

The Hewett School’s ‘Tycoon’ Business Company has used the annual START Christmas fair at The Forum as the launch pad for an exciting new venture – Yumkits, a start baking kit for younger children.

The Tycoon students came up with the idea of putting together a box of essential ingredients for baking Christmas treats. Adam Moulson, a year 13 student, said: “Yumkits contain all the ingredients and equipment you need to make cupcakes and muffins.”

In comparison, when I purchased an iPhone from the Apple store in Norwich, I came away singing their praises. They made it so easy and I left after 30 minutes with the phone fully operational.

Peter Barry and Richard Courridge from the Norfolk Chamber have been working with and advising the Tycoon students through the autumn term, to research, design and produce the kits in time for the pre-Christmas craft fairs held in schools and community centres during December.

The difference between the two was that one really cared and understood what my needs were. As a result I had a great experience.

Richard said: “Yumkits is a clever idea, and it shows the commitment and sound business sense of the Tycoons that they have produced a saleable product and thought about how to market it successfully.”

Great customer service needs to be a key part of the culture of a business and it needs to start at the top.

Tycoon is a project supported by the Norfolk Chamber and aims to bring together students and business people as part of its business education initiatives.

I raised a few eyebrows recently when giving a talk about customer service to a group of business people. I said that when in charge of operations like Archant, I used to publish my direct line in every publication.

Yes, I used to get some really angry calls, but what an impact when the person on the phone realised that they were where they wanted to be – straight through to the boss. They were usually so shocked that they would apologise for disturbing me. When I then listened to their complaint and used that little five letter word “sorry” along with “we’ll sort it,” they were totally gobsmacked.

It’s well known that word of mouth is the best form of marketing.

Not surprisingly I would rather have someone telling their friends and family that “they cocked up but quickly sorted it” rather than just the first three words!

If you are interested in becoming involved with projects like this then please contact richard.courridge@norfolkchamber.co.uk

CHAMBER DIGEST Green airport.

Stansted Airport has added the Carbon Trust Standard to its environmental credentials after introducing energy-saving initiatives. Initiatives include biomass technology installed as part of a £50 million terminal extension, single-engine taxiing trials to reduce emissions from aircraft manoeuvring on the ground, a campaign encouraging staff to turn off electrical items overnight, low-energy lighting on the airfield, sensor lighting in offices and motion sensors built into escalators and travelators to improve efficiency.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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CHAMBER NEWS

Foundation East launches ‘safety net’ loan for small businesses. n Valerie Jarrett, Norfolk loans manager for Foundation East, with Paul Waymark.

Karmelia blooms following loan from Foundation East Foundation East, a leading community finance company, reports that even small businesses with excellent prospects have struggled to access bank lending this year and as a result is launching a ‘safety net’ loan to provide fast access to essential funds.

Norfolk business Karmelia Garden Centre is one of the companies that have benefited from a Foundation East loan.

Businessman Paul Waymark is celebrating another blooming year at the Norwich garden centre by announcing plans to expand the business with the opening of a customer tea shop. Karmelia nearly didn’t get off the ground when he couldn’t get bank funding to set up.

Luckily he heard about Foundation East, where the strength of his business plan and quality of his management secured the much-needed loan.

Foundation East is a ‘lender of the last resort’ providing loans for businesses that have been refused bank finance despite having a viable business plan and cash-flow analysis. The membership society is using the launch of its Annual Review to highlight that help is available.

Foundation East Chief Executive Katy Ford says: “Over the last year Foundation East has noticed an increase in demand from businesses that would previously have received bank finance.

We have been concerned that the problem has been cash-flow and some timely support is all that is needed to keep these businesses afloat.”

As a result Foundation East has created a new type of lending to help established companies stay in business.

“In addition to the start-up and longer-term loans, we are also talking to businesses about a bridging-loan facility that they can access at short notice. This will help, for example, to pay suppliers in order to meet orders.

“We are actively lending to small businesses and keen to receive applications. Now is a good time to build a business, some of the strongest businesses are those that have survived harsh economic climates.”

Applicants need to have a basic business plan and cash-flow analysis, which is discussed in detail by one of Foundation East’s business loans managers. The manager will come out to meet the people involved and see what they want to achieve. The final decision to lend is made by a panel of members – business people and other professionals who understand what it takes to make a success of a business.

Foundation East is acutely aware that earlystage businesses need more than finance to thrive. This year it introduced a coaching scheme for people setting up new businesses and this is proving very successful.

More information on loans or becoming a member is available on the website www.foundationeast.org or by calling 0845 293 7751.

CHAMBER DIGEST Investment concerns.

A report has revealed that the East of England receives the second lowest levels of public spending per head in England and significant under-spending when compared to economic need. Public Insight, produced by the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) shows that the region received 9.7 per cent of total public expenditure in England in 2008/09, lower than the region’s share of population, at 11.1 per cent.

Science and technology is one of only two areas where the level of investment is not lower than the measured need. Will Pope, chair of EEDA, said: “The East of England contributes around £6 billion a year to the UK exchequer - we are one of only three regions to contribute more to the public purse than we receive back in public spending. If you apply the national average to our population, the East of England would have an additional £5.5 billion a year to spend, which is staggering.” The report is available at www.insighteast.org.uk

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CHAMBER NEWS

Aylsham school makes its mark with business challenge.

Great in glass.

On 15 and 16 November, Aylsham High School Young Chamber took part in the national ‘Make Your Mark’ Challenge competition. This was a record year for entries, with over 60 students registering to take part and 52 successful, giving the judges 13 teams to consider.

On the morning of 15 November the students received their challenge, which was to create a product to be sold on a market stall in the December period, but which could have a life for the rest of the year. Each team had to provide a business plan outlining the idea, costs, competitors etc, and prepare a presentation to be delivered to a panel of business ‘dragons’ the next day.

The winning team were ‘Nelson’s Hampers’, with a pick and mix hamper. Customers could choose from a range of products to fill their hamper. This Christmas idea could then be followed through with seasonal fruit and veg, Easter, Valentine’s Day, Halloween and Mother’s Day. The team has now been put forward for the regional heats

Great Yarmouth Glass and Windows has recently completed a £20,000 refurbishment of its showroom to showcase its widest ever range of products and to comply with new building regulations on energy efficiency.

and the final winning team will go on to float their product on a real market stall in the New Year.

The new showroom comprises what is probably the largest display of composite and PVC doors in East Anglia and a selection of the latest bi-fold doors.

A great two days were had by all. The students were supported by local business people who gave up their time to mentor and judge. A big thank you to Clean Energy Consultancy, North Norfolk Light Railway, Just Aylsham, Signs Express, Broadland Council, Brian Morris Films, Manig Consultancy, Breckland Orchard, Moco Development, and the Tilting Sky Promotions Company.

MD Steve Page commented: “We have been in business for 58 years and this latest investment will ensure that we continue to be leaders in this industry and provide the best products and services at competitive prices. We are proud to count among our customers some key regional companies such as Bird’s Eye and Pasta Foods, as well as Great Yarmouth Borough Council and Norfolk County Council.”

Breakwater and Norfolk Chamber go for Second Gold.

IT consultancy Breakwater IT has renewed its Gold Patronage of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce for the second year running.

The Norfolk Chamber’s Gold Patron Scheme offers exclusive sponsorship benefits to raise a company’s profile, increase brand awareness and generate new business opportunities. It is a cost effective way to achieve tangible results from marketing, publicity and promotion throughout the year by reaching a diverse and influential business audience on a regular basis.

Stephen Bowles, Managing Director of Breakwater IT, commented: “Our unique and special partnership with the Norfolk Chamber has enabled us to work closely with many key decision makers from leading companies across the county. The progressive relationship we have built up with Caroline Williams, Lisa Li and the team has genuinely pleased me and our first year of patronage has surpassed my own expectations. I therefore very much welcome the opportunity to continue our support of the Chamber to help underpin our strategy of being the leading IT service provider within the region.”

Chairman of Breakwater IT, Peter Davies, said: “We enjoy working with the Norfolk Chamber as we regard it as the most important business

n Lisa Li and Peter Davies

group of the area. We support a lot of the work they are involved in, including the recent lobbying for the dualling of the A11, the campaign for higher speed broadband and the LEP drive to bring a more competitive business environment across East Anglia. We are delighted to be The Norfolk Chamber Gold Patron in 2011.”

Lisa Li, the Norfolk Chamber’s Commercial Director, said: “We are delighted that Breakwater IT continues to see the value of Gold Patronage to this organisation. The team is looking forward to continuing a strong working relationship with Peter, Stephen and their team, to ensure the company gets maximum return on its investment, with increased brand exposure to businesses in Norfolk.

CHAMBER DIGEST Cultural quarter.

Plans for a new cultural quarter for Great Yarmouth moved a step closer with work starting to convert St George’s Chapel and construct a new pavilion alongside. RG Carter will be carrying out the works on the Great Yarmouth Borough Council-led project, working with English Heritage and Hopkins Architects. The work is expected to be completed by December 2011. The project to breathe new life into St George’s Chapel and the surrounding area has been enabled by funding and support from the CABE ‘Seachange’ programme, the Heritage Lottery Fund, the East of England Development Agency, Norfolk County Council and English Heritage. Councillor Barry Coleman, Leader of Great Yarmouth Borough Council, said: “The start of work at St George’s represents a significant milestone in the creation of a new cultural quarter for Great Yarmouth. A renovated chapel, as a multi-use arts and community venue, will provide a fantastic addition to our already thriving cultural offer and preserves one of the town’s most iconic buildings.”

“We are also delighted to announce that retail shopping outlet Chapelfield has renewed its Gold Patronage for the third year running.”

Patronage is Category exclusive. For more information contact lisa.li@norfolkchamber.co.uk

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PAGE TITLEVOICE NORFOLK

Norwich Call Centre Celebrates 10th Birthday.

Businesses lead the way in saving money.

Businesses looking for new ways to save money are turning to resource efficiency.

Several businesses recently signed up for one of Resource Efficiency East’s (REE) free business reviews, making changes that brought financial savings.

n Fiona Temple and Ron Pollin

Norwich-based outsource call centre business OpenContact celebrated its 10th birthday in November, following an exciting, challenging and turbulent decade for many businesses across the region.

The business was founded by Ron Pollin on 1 November 2000, from a management buy-out of what was left of Blakes Holidays, when the boating and cottage group sold their holiday interests to Thomsons. The booking office was already servicing a number of outsource call centre contracts, including the National Trust’s working holidays programme, when Ron spotted an opportunity, and acquired the contracts, systems and staff to continue in his own right.

The business went on to acquire a wide variety of clients, providing inbound and outbound call centre services, as well as mailing and fulfilment services, plus database design and management. In addition to the National Trust, who remain a client of OpenContact, a number of other clients have remained loyal to the business since 2000, including Dogtag Travel Insurance and Anglian Home Improvements.

OpenContact now works with a number of Norfolk businesses, including Proton Cars, Mattressman, Pine Solutions, Combat Paintball, Larchvine, 1st Choice Spares and Right Angle Events, as well as others based in the East Anglia region and further afield, including Go Ape and UK General Insurance. Ron says: “Client retention has been and remains our absolute number one priority, with the aim of developing long-term partnerships with our client, so that they can enjoy the benefits of reduced operational costs

by outsourcing their call handling to us. They put their faith in us to protect their brand with their customers, and give the best customer service possible, while maintaining a high call-to-sale ratio, and I am proud to say that we achieve this consistently, and have done so for the last 10 years.”

The company has had to endure its fair share of challenges along the way, such as the loss of Zenith Staybrite as a client, when it went into administration in January 2008. The company represented a sizeable chunk of business for OpenContact. “We’ve had to make some very difficult decisions over the years, and reducing staff costs is always the most difficult,” Ron continues, “but right now we are in the best shape possible to take the business forward, with an experienced and committed team.” Over the years OpenContact has employed over 300 people, and currently employs 55 staff at its offices on Roundtree Way. The family business is now run by Ron’s daughter, Fiona Temple, who took on the role of Managing Director two years ago, as Ron eased himself into a well-deserved retirement. Fiona says: “We are extremely proud of what we have achieved over the last 10 years, and very excited about what the next 10 years will bring. Being part of our clients’ growth, as well as seeking out new clients is our clear focus now, and hopefully that will generate new jobs and opportunities for the area.”

For further information please contact Fiona Temple, 01603 895405, Fiona.temple@opencontact.co.uk

Merit Plastic Mouldings, in Diss, identified over £17,000 worth of potential savings. Suggestions included switching off electrical items not in use at weekends and renewing waste management procedures. The company has been able to make immediate annual savings of £7,800 and reduce its carbon footprint by 30 tonnes. The company is now working on further recommendations made by the review, which could save a further £9,225 per year.

Rick Worcester, Production Manager, said: “For the small amount of time and effort we put in the rewards were outstanding.”

Frozen meat wholesalers G Morris & Son, from Norwich, is saving more than £38,000 a year after renegotiating its energy tariff, while Long Stratton sheet metal fabricators HLW Ltd is saving £1,250 after renegotiating its energy tariffs and reducing waste management costs.

Norwich office suppliers Hussey & Knights is making savings of £900 and three tonnes of carbon per annum through measures such as energy monitoring and sub-metering, reducing lighting where possible, installing seven-day timer plugs, monitoring water use, and improving environmental awareness within the company.

REE’s programme director Antony Gough said: “Norfolk businesses have shown enthusiasm to look at different ways of getting through difficult economic times and these businesses are enjoying significant savings, while having the added benefit of reducing their impact on the environment. Even just simple changes such as changing your energy tariff can result in significant savings.”

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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BUSINESS NEWS

Local Enterprise Partnership bids win approval.

The Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Local Enterprise Partnership, which includes West Norfolk, has been given the go-ahead. A green light has also been given to the New Anglia Norfolk/Suffolk LEP. Leaders from local businesses, local authorities, universities and social enterprises submitted their proposals to the government based on the economic areas of Cambridge and Peterborough, together with Rutland, West Norfolk and King’s Lynn, alongside neighbouring market towns and communities.

Councillor Nick Daubney, Leader of the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk, said: “This is excellent news and we are delighted to be involved in this exciting initiative. We have long maintained that growth and development needs to be based on an area’s economic reality. This bid reflects the economic geography of the area and demonstrates the strong links between King’s Lynn, Cambridge and Peterborough and the role that King’s Lynn plays as a major service centre and economic hub, equidistant from both cities.

Local business and civic leaders have also welcomed the Government’s decision, on

13 December, to give the green light for New Anglia, the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) for Norfolk and Suffolk.

The announcement means that the New Anglia team can continue its work firming up its proposal, developing priorities with stakeholders, a business plan and governance structures. The decision has been welcomed by Andy Wood, chief executive of Adnams and chair of Choose Suffolk, and Peter Barry, managing director of Great-Yarmouth based Pasta Foods, who have both championed the LEP. Mr Barry said: “The proposal, written in November by business and civic leaders, built on the combined strengths of the two areas, to create a partnership that will unlock the enormous economic potential of New Anglia, creating thousands of private sector jobs. This follows the Government inviting business and local authority leaders to develop proposals for Local Enterprise Partnerships to help.”

USC beats stiff competition to win award.

West Norfolk utility brokers USC has won the Supplier Excellence Award at the NFRN Awards 2010, held in London on 19 October. The award was given for outstanding services to the NFRN (National Federation of Retail Newsagents) which has 16,000 members. In 2009 USC won a contract to broker the membership.

Alan Taylor, Director of USC, commented: “We were delighted to win this award and we had some stiff competition. Others in our category included heavyweights such as Coca Cola, Booker, Diagio and Nestle, who were in fact runners up on the night. You can imagine how proud we were up against such strong national competition. The award is testament to the hard work of our team and our commitment to ensuring the best possible services to our

Further recognition for Lovewell Blake Following Lovewell Blake’s success in gaining the 2010 Business in the Community – Eastern Region Pro Bono Company of the Year Award, they were a finalist in the recent EDP Business Awards, Community Impact category.

Two years ago Lovewell Blake celebrated its 150th anniversary and launched a five year challenge to raise £150,000 to support local good causes. It has so far raised over £97,000, with over 50 community groups benefiting already.

The fundraising is a team effort with staff participating in events such as tandem sky diving, quiz nights, the Three Peaks Challenge and a charity relay cycle ride around their network of offices.

customers. Going forward the award will be instrumental in helping us win more contracts.”

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n Lovewell Blake staff participating in the 2010 cycle challenge

The firm also has a specialist team helping almost 100 charities deal with issues facing the voluntary sector – not least the impact of the recession. It also provides considerable free support through Norfolk ProHelp.

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NORFOLK VOICE

Great Yarmouth architect designs new development for Outer Harbour.

Price Bailey Wins Top Accolade.

Price Bailey has been awarded ‘Large Firm of the Year’ at the Accountancy Age Awards Dinner, held on 17 November.

Peter Gillman, Managing Director of Price Bailey Chartered Accountants, enthused: “It is a great honour to win what is regarded as the premier award for our profession and it is also a tremendous compliment to our entire team for the skills, dedication and personality that they bring to the firm. It is wonderful for everyone to receive this recognition from others!”

Great Yarmouth Architectural Design Consultancy, Paul Robinson Partnership, has successfully achieved planning permission at South Beach Parade, Great Yarmouth, for a 22,000 sq ft headquarters development for local business Seajacks Limited – which specialises in vessels that erect and maintain wind turbines at sea.

The site, next to the EastPort UK Outer Harbour, is currently owned by the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) and will be purchased and developed by Chaldean Properties Ltd. The development comes at a time which is crucial to the progress of the Outer Harbour.

Garry Ellis, of Chaldean Properties, said: “I hope this totally privately financed project will set a new benchmark and act as a catalyst in attracting additional companies to the area. We are using local consultants and contractors to provide accommodation for an expanding local business.”

The development will comprise three-storey offices and associated car parking, together with an adjacent single storey warehouse of over 1.5 acres. The offices, which will overlook the North Sea, have been designed with flexibility and energy conservation in mind, maximising natural light and ventilation. The steel-framed structure will have a composite panel envelope with green tinted (low e) glazing and bris soleil to reduce solar gain. Heating and cooling will be achieved via air source heat pumps. Surface water drainage will be a sustainable underground system (SUDS).

Simon Nicholas, a Principal at the Paul Robinson Partnership, said: “The practice is very excited to be involved with the first Port-related new build since the construction of the Outer Harbour, and we are looking forward to building on the remainder of the five-acre site with renewable energy and port-related companies. The Practice, which will be providing CDM Coordination, can also offer Building Surveys, together with Commercial Energy and BREEAM Assessments.

CHAMBER DIGEST Helping hand.

Business adviser Grant Thornton has raised more than £1,000 to help bereaved children in Norfolk through Norwich charity Nelson’s Journey.

Over 15 months, Grant Thornton’s Norwich office organised fundraising activities including coffee and cake days, a raffle and dress down day. A ‘Well Being Week’ was also held when local businesses treated staff to acupressure chair massages, manicures, pedicures, fresh fruit smoothies and fitness assessments, with donations going to Nelson’s Journey. Helen Mallett, Grant Thornton’s Corporate Responsibility Coordinator, said: “We wanted to fundraise for a charity which operates in the local area and our staff voted to support Nelson’s Journey.” For more than a decade, Nelson’s Journey has provided advice and practical help for children who have experienced the death of a mother, father, sibling or other significant person in their life.

Despite the recession, the firm has flourished and this year grew 6.8% to £15.7m, but that is just part of the story. Internal communication has been improved with an ‘Adding Value Guide’ made available to staff through the intranet that also includes a wiki facility, allowing anybody to add articles, insert comments and amend existing materials to keep it up to date.

A few years ago the firm changed the approach of the team towards client relationships by introducing partner contact time and fixed fee levels which helps to deliver a better service through regular contact between the client and accountant at no extra cost.

Price Bailey opened an office in Guernsey, which not only generates income from Guernsey but also facilitates a link to UK clients and creates fees from work that would previously have been outsourced.

Due to its success in the City of London earlier this year the practice expanded by moving into bigger premises in Dashwood House.

Offices have been upgraded and departmental structures radically changed so that partners and staff are moved around the practice to where their skills are needed to deliver a premium service to clients, which is clearly widely valued through the feedback they receive from clients.

A new graduate training programme has been implemented, providing structured experience across all departments, enabling newly qualified staff to make an informed decision about career preferences and provide the firm with highly skilled client facing teams for the longer term.

Overall this firm continues to rise to the challenges in what are still difficult economic times for the country.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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CHAMBER NEWS

Be on the ball in business… and on the pitch!

The Norfolk FA and the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce have joined forces to offer member businesses the CHAMBER 5IVES – a competitive five-a-side football league to run from January 2011 for 14 weeks. Aside from having fun and getting your staff fit after an indulgent Christmas and New Year, this is a great cost-effective way to get brand exposure for your company, as the progress of teams will be regularly covered through Chamber media channels.

The impact of rising sea Recently up are Holiday Inn Norwich North, Breakwater IT Ltd, Blue levels signed is increasingly Sky Leisure and STM Polythene Ltd, But don’t let them have all the fun – being seen get involved, get fit,as anda get some great branding for your company! challenge for businesses There will also be a FREE Macron kit from TCM Teamwear for everyone in the first 8 in teams to register. If you want to order a complete team kit, based lower-lying it will cost you just £150. areas like Norfolk.

What do you to do to take part?

However, forneed companies n Nominate a Team Captain – this person will be the main point of prepared to tackle the contact from your company for the Norfolk FA, responsible for identifying teampresented members, disseminating information to their team challenges ensuring adequate attendance for each match. byand flooding, there are n Identify 7 additional players, 3 of which can act as substitutes, significant business forming a squad of 8. Please note, if you are a micro-business and do not have enough players you can commandeer business associates, opportunities.

Win a two-night stay for two at Dunston Hall.

Increasing the membership of the Norfolk Chamber provides greater opportunity for everyone involved, as it increases our mix of sectors and businesses. This in turn provides our membership with increased potential to generate leads and identify business opportunities. So we are encouraging our existing membership to enhance the diversity available by identifying potential new members to the ultimate business network. So if you know of a business that would benefit from being part of our growing dynamic network, please refer them to us through Chamber Referral.

This quarter you can win a two-night stay for two people at Dunston Hall, including breakfast and dinner in the Brasserie on the first night.

friends or family members, but you will need to play under your Chamber Member Company Name.

n Each fixture price is £27.50 per team – so that’s only £5.50/head payable to the Norfolk FA. This can be prepaid or paid on the night. n Go to the Chamber website to download the application form and send it to Lisa Li, Commercial Director, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, 9 Norwich Business Park, Whiting Road, Norwich, NR4 6DJ, lisa.li@norfolkchamber.co.uk n Once the application has been checked and approved, send your company logo to the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce (hi-res JPEG) to get some brand exposure for your company through the league.

The Match Venue

So how do I enter? How do I refer?

Norfolk County FA’s Football Development Centre, Bowthorpe Park, Cloverhill Road, Norwich NR5 9ED. Visit the website at www.theFDCNorfolk.com.

n Look out for the Chamber Referral cards at events, or

Match Fixtures 2011 Always on a Friday at 5:30pm Week 1 14 January

Week 2 21 January

Week 3 28 January

Week 4 04 February

Week 5 11 February

Week 6 18 February

Week 7 25 February

Week 8 04 March

Week 9 11 March

Week 10 18 March

Week 11 25 March

Week 12 01 April

Week 13 08 April

Week 14 15 April

n Email your referral to debbie.sykes@norfolkchamber.co.uk and we will complete the card for you.

Entries for this promotion will be taken until 28 February 2011 and winners will be notified directly as well as publicised through Chamber media channels before 15 March 2011.

Dunston Hall is the ideal venue to suit all your business and leisure requirements. This Elizabethan-style red brick country house is set in 150 acres of spectacular wooded Norfolk parkland. The approach to the hotel is along a sweeping tree-lined driveway, leading to the original Hall, with its magnificent chimneys towering over the landscape. Dunston Hall has 169 spacious twin and double rooms, including sumptuous four poster suites and deluxe rooms. In addition, the hotel boasts 10 purpose-built conference rooms suitable for up to 300 delegates, a well equipped gymnasium, large indoor pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpool and solarium and an 18-hole parkland golf course.

Terms & Conditions: The offer is subject to availability and cannot be used over Christmas, New Year, Valentine’s night or at weekends.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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NORFOLK VOICE

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In most cases all learners will be funded, with not a penny to pay to achieve these recognised qualifications.

www.activetalk.co.uk enquiry@activetalk.co.uk

01603 627766

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Ask the Export Expert…

Expanding Overseas?

We have a dedicated international team to advise Norfolk businesses on all aspects of international trade with particular expertise in international logistics and country documentation requirements. Our services include: n Significant discounts on export documents – we stamp over 5,000 documents a year for local businesses n Online export documentation service – have your documents checked, certified and returned to you electronically on the same day n Translation service – technical and commercial, over 100 languages available n Training courses covering all aspects of exporting and importing n British Standards – we are distributors of BSi and can therefore obtain copies of the standards for you very promptly n Access to our International Chamber network Contact the International Team on 01603 729711

International Trade Courses.

The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce will soon be running more courses covering International Trade.

We recommend that the courses are attended by not just staff who are new to exporting, but also to experienced staff so that they can be updated on new rules and regulations.

Course topics over the next couple of months are: 25 January

Documentary Letters of Credit

10 February

eCert Workshop

21 February

Introduction to International Trade

22 February

Incoterms 2010

21 March

Export Procedures & Documentation

For more information on any of the above, please contact: Tracey Howard, Tel. 01603 729711 or tracey.howard@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Tracey Howard, International Trade Director answers your export questions…

I have a potentially very large export client asking me to take samples of my products abroad for them to have a look at. Is there any paperwork available that can assist with shipping the samples overseas?

As long as the goods are not sold while overseas and are only going to be used for demonstration purposes, you may be able to use a Carnet. An ATA Carnet is an international customs document that permits duty/tax free TEMPORARY import of goods for up to one year in over 60 countries. There are three categories for goods to be classified under: Commercial Samples, Professional Equipment and for Exhibition purposes. The main thing to remember is that a Carnet acts as a passport for the goods – whatever leaves the EC must ALWAYS come back. Norfolk Chamber is the nominated agent for the whole of the East of England for the issue of Carnets. Have a look at the Carnet section of our website www.norfolkchamber.co.uk for more information.

I would like to be able to check Import Duty Rates applicable to my customers overseas, but I can’t access the EU Market Access Database which I normally go to. Is there anywhere else I could try?

The World Customs Organisation (WCO) website may be able to help. The address is www. wcoomd.org. On the home page, select “About us” from the left hand side and then “National Customs Website”. Select your country and it will take you into the tariff pages. Please note that some of the links do not always work and many of the pages are in the countries’ national languages, but it’s still worth a try.

I am running low on blank Standard Shipping Notes and Dangerous Goods Notes – is there a local supplier of these forms?

Norfolk Chamber not only supplies the blank Certificates of Origin but they hold stocks of all blank forms such as EUR1s, A.TRs, CMRs plus Country Specific Invoices like Nigerian C16s, Caricoms etc. All forms are sold in Packs of 10.

I have been advised by our overseas client that they require a EUR1, however the value of the goods is quite low so I thought I could just include a declaration on our Invoice instead.

Where can I find the actual ruling on this?

Every exporter should hold copies of the HM Customs Notices which explain all the rules. The

section you need to look out for this particular query is in Notice No. 827, Section 6.1. You can either obtain a free copy of all the Notices (812, 827, 828, 829, 832) by calling HMRC National Advice Service on 0845 010 9000 (Mon-Fri, 8am8pm) or take a look at their website www.hmrc. gov.uk and follow the link for Import and Export.

Can you please explain what Intrastats are?

Intrastat is the system for collecting statistics on the trade in goods between the countries of the EU. It replaced Customs Declarations as the source of trade statistics within the EU. The requirements of Intrastat are similar in all Member States of the EU. Trade statistics are an essential part of a country’s balance of payments account and are regarded as an important economic indicator of a country’s performance.

A US customer recently returned some items for repair. The problem is that we supplied them with a large system and they have only returned a small part of the whole package but have declared the full system price of $500,000 on the paperwork. We will be using Inward Processing Relief (IPR), so duty won’t be paid – we don’t want to have an artificial duty liability. Can we legally declare the correct price of $25,000 for the small bit to Customs?

Yes, I would advise asking your US customer to supply an amended document, but you can formally instruct the forwarder to declare the true price of the part. The import may be selected for paperwork check and you will at some stage have to defend your position, but as long as you have clear evidence of what you say, make the change.

For help and advice on any other matter relating to International Trade, you can contact Tracey direct on Tel. 01603 729711 or Email. tracey.howard@norfolkchamber.co.uk

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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NORFOLK VOICE

Kettle Foods ...

the romantic story of a business success.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

From humble beginnings in Oregon to a business employing 410 people in Norwich, the tale of Kettle Foods is a remarkable one, mixing romance with business acumen to produce a multi-million pound company.

Kettle Foods has come a long way in the 23 years since its European operation was created in Norwich. Managing director Jeremy Bradley and his team place the credit for that on a sense of innovation and a loyalty to local people.

For all its Norfolk elements, the story is also inextricably linked to a small part of American history. The first potato chips were created in the mid-19th Century in Saratoga Springs, New York, by Moon Lake House chef George Crum.

Frustrated by a customer rejecting his fries for being too thick, the chef fried paper-thin slices of potato to make them impossible to eat with a fork. To his surprise, the customer loved them and the potato chip was created.

Kettle Foods itself was founded by American businessman Cameron Healy in 1978 in Salem, Oregon, USA, with the aim of providing high quality, naturally-sourced products. Starting with nothing more than an old van and a vision to make less processed foods, Cameron took to the road selling cheese and roasted nuts to natural food stores.

In 1982, he first sampled the delights of homemade potato chips while relaxing on a Hawaiian beach. Once home, he began experimenting with traditional chip production methods and Kettle Chips was born.

The next stage of the story brings the tale to Norwich. In 1988, Cameron and his son took time

out to take a motorcycle trip round Britain, during which they discovered the British love for crisps.

Jeremy Bradley

To take advantage of that, Kettle Foods subsequently established a UK branch in a converted shoe factory in Norwich, the city being chosen so that the company could be close to its potato growers.

Jeremy Bradley said: “The decision to move into Europe came because Kettle Foods had expanded rapidly in the US but, as with all businesses that expand rapidly, it had experienced cash constraints so sought new investment. There is a lot of romance to the Kettle Foods story and Cameron’s motorcycle trip to the UK is a good example. There was also a good business reason for being in the UK. We love our crisps and are currently the second largest snack market in the world.

“Kettle Foods‘ European operation was established in 1988 after the company had looked all over the UK for somewhere to set up.

The reason they chose Norwich was because they were looking for a particular kind of potato that had the crunchy quality they needed. They talked to other producers around the UK, but they said it could not be done. However, Norfolk could grow them and we have established a group of reliable growers in the area. Sourcing our potatoes locally is important to us. Our success brings investment which goes back into the local economy.”

By 1993, the company had outgrown its initial premises and moved to its current base on the outskirts of Norwich. In 2006, the company was sold to private equity group Lion Capital LLP, who themselves put it up for sale in December 2009.

In February 2010, Diamond Foods, based in San Fransisco, bought it for $615 million.

Jeremy said: “Diamond Foods have been going for a hundred years and their story is similar to Kettle Foods in many ways. Diamond Foods started out as a walnut-growing co-operative but have developed into a snack food company and saw many similarities between their Emerald Nuts brand and that of Kettle Foods. There is a good synergy between the two of us.”

Having been with Kettle Foods UK for 14 years, Jeremy said: “It has been a superb journey so far. When I joined we were turning over £18m a year, now it’s £70m, thanks to the work done by some wonderful people. I feel that there is great potential to expand what we do and that is what we are working towards.”

That potential for expansion builds on solid success. In 2008, the company was named the sixth fastest growing grocery brand in

It has been a superb journey so far. When I joined we were turning over £18m a year, now it’s £70m, thanks to the work done by some wonderful people. I feel that there is great potential to expand what we do and that is what we are working towards

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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FDF CPA winner 2008

the UK and identified as one of the country’s Top 100 Grocery Brands, in a list issued by The Grocer magazine. The company also secured a Gold Award in the Food & Drink Federation Community Partnership Awards.

In 2009, the 21st birthday of Kettle Foods Ltd UK, Kettle Chips made it on to the prestigious CoolBrands list for 2009/10 as voted for by a team of experts, including journalist Damian Barr and fashion designer Ben de Lisi and 2,458 members of the public.

Jeremy said: “We are already the third largest branded crisp manufacturer in the UK and have approximately five per cent of the market share.

We feel there is potential to expand and there is a lot of evidence that people like the way that our products are differentiated from other crisps.

We are always looking at new products.

For instance, we are developing a range of smaller bags which are more accessible for people.”

Currently employing 410 people at Norwich, Kettle Foods UK is looking to create more jobs in the future, both through expanding UK market share and also from the export market.

Ten per cent of its UK product goes abroad, supported by a a network of independent distributors in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and Sweden, as well as the Middle East.

Jeremy believes that percentage can increase.

He said: “We do see potential in exports but not every territory is the same and you have to tailor your marketing to each different one.”

It seems that the remarkable story of Kettle Foods has a few more chapters to go yet.

Kettle Foods has recently become a member of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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PAGE TITLEVOICE NORFOLK

You You can can count on us

count on us

C L I E N T

After all, it’s what we do for a living. Lovewell Blake will always guarantee a professional, friendly service, with that something extra After what do for a living.

Blake will always whenall, youit’s need it, we helping you to get Lovewell on with running your business. guarantee a professional, friendly service, with that something extra when you need it, helping you to get on with running your x Accounts & audit x VAT, CIS, PAYE & NICbusiness.

x Pensions & investments x Self assessment x Accounts & audit x VAT, CIS, PAYE & NIC x Payroll & bookkeeping x Tax planning x Pensions & investments x Self assessment x Corporate finance x Family business support x Payroll & bookkeeping x Tax planning x Business recovery x Human resources consultancy x Corporate finance x Family business support xMike Business recovery x Human resources consultancy Smith | 01603 663300 | mdls@lovewell-blake.co.uk ajt@lovewell-blake.co.uk

Mike Smith | 01603 663300 | mdls@lovewell-blake.co.uk www.lovewell-blake.co.uk ajt@lovewell-blake.co.uk

Offices: Great Yarmouth 01493 335100 | Halesworth 01986 873163 www.lovewell-blake.co.uk

Lowestoft 01502 563921 | Norwich 01603 663300 | Thetford 01842 755032 Offices: Great Yarmouth 01493 | Halesworth Market day offices: Aylsham, Diss335100 and North Walsham 01986 873163 Lowestoft 01502 563921 | Norwich 01603 663300 | Thetford 01842 755032 Market day offices: Aylsham, Diss and North Walsham

Registered to carry on audit work in the UK by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

Details about our audit registration can be viewed at www.auditregister.org.uk, under reference number C002613207. Lovewell Blake LLP is an appointed representative of Lovewell Blake which is authorised and Registered to carry on audit work in the UK by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Details about our audit registration can be viewed at www.auditregister.org.uk, under reference number C002613207. Lovewell Blake LLP is an appointed representative of Lovewell Blake which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber Events.

New partnership boosts business in North Norfolk.

A new affiliation between the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and North Norfolk Business Forum (NNBF) has been formed in a bid to further boost the region’s economy and help strengthen the business voice.

The main aim of the partnership is to enable the NNBF to join forces with the Norfolk Chamber to influence public sector partners and other key organisations.

Caroline Williams, CEO of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, said: ”We have the ability to influence policy at the highest level of

Government, so by joining together with the NNBF this can be strengthened even further. In addition, we can work together to tackle issues effecting North Norfolk businesses and maximise opportunities.

“As part of this relationship we can promote the NNBF’s activities through our own media channels – such as Norfolk Voice magazine and the Chamber e-newsletter – which reach thousands of people in Norfolk on a regular basis and give access to our wide range of services to help business grow.”

NNBF Chairman Ian Doughty said: “NNBF is a co-ordinated group run by businesses on behalf of businesses. Its aim is to represent the best interests of local employers and their staff and it seeks to boost the economy in a variety of ways. I believe that a closer working relationship with Norfolk Chamber of Commerce will assist one of our key goals of bringing together businesses to share knowledge and skills, enhancing productivity and improving the workforce of North Norfolk.”

In conjunction with the NNBF, the Norfolk Chamber is organising a series of networking events in North Norfolk to enable greater communication between businesses in the area. These will be on the following dates:

16 February

Merchant’s Place, Cromer

30 March

Crown Hotel, Wells-next-the Sea

14 April

Beechwood Hotel, North Walsham

22 September

Oddfellows Hall, Sheringham

27 October

The Racecourse, Fakenham

15 November

The Feathers Hotel, Holt

An elegant evening for a great cause.

In aid of the Norwich Civic Charity Appeal 2010/11, the Norfolk Chamber has been appointed to stage the Lord Mayor’s Charity Spring Ball on behalf of the Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor of Norwich, Councillor Tom Dylan, and The Worshipful the Sheriff of Norwich, Mr Derek James.

Each year a charity is chosen as a focus for the Appeal and this year the event is raising funds for Rotary House for the Deaf. This charity is for people with any degree of hearing loss. It’s a facility for people of all ages who are able to cope with living independently, with any assistance from the manager or deputy given when needed.

The event will be held on 11 March 2011 at Sprowston Manor Marriott Hotel and Country Club. There will be a delicious three-course meal with entertainment and dancing throughout the evening. We are inviting leading companies from Norfolk to get involved by sponsoring this very worthwhile cause. Sponsors will also gain valuable brand exposure for their company, plus the opportunity to network with other businesses.

Alternatively, you can book a table for the ball – tables of 10 cost just £500 plus VAT. For details on sponsorship packages, or to book a table, contact Debbie Sykes on 01603 729705.

LANCASTER SUITE The Most Versatile Venue For Up to 400 guests Launches | Private Dining | Dinner Dances | Awards Dinners | Balls | Proms | Parties | Christenings | Naming Ceremonies | Civil Ceremonies | Weddings Holiday Inn Norwich-North, Cromer Road, Norwich, Norfolk NR6 6JA t. 01603 410544 e. events@hinorwich.co.uk

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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NORFOLK VOICE

Business Alchemy uncovered.

By Chris Batten

just to get by; we should all be striving for exceptional performance on a sustained basis.

www.chris-batten.com

My experience in businesses across the world has lead me to conclude that for a business to survive there are 11 key elements; without one or more of these you are destined to ultimately fail.

If you have them all you’ll have every chance of survival. For me, however, survival is not enough – I want exceptional.

The key to exceptional is simple, have all 11 of the elements and then learn the skill of keeping them all in perfect balance. Learn that the balance needs to change, depending on the circumstances of the day.

In my latest book, due for release in a month or so, I explore the unfinished journey I have been taking in business. Over the years and after many a mistake I thought it worthwhile putting on paper the results, so far, from my journey and love affair with business.

What I talk about in the book is not rocket science and certainly not over-complicated, but I believe that it’s simplicity is probably one of the biggest reasons why so many businesses miss out on exceptional performance and just get by. I for one don’t think anyone should be in business Advert_408915_AW-02.pdf 25/02/2010 12:13:24

The true skill is being proactive rather than reactive. I have never quite understood why people start thinking about being wise with spending and increasing sales activity when times get tough. Surely the sensible option is to always spend the minimum and produce the maximum?

Business Alchemy the book is all about learning the elements, which are:-

• • • • • • • • • • •

Vision, Mission & Values Strategy Planning Leadership Change Management Coaching Hiring & Firing PR & Communication Marketing Sales Financial Planning

Next, it’s about getting the balance right and then changing the balance to reflect the circumstances of the day. Understand the need for passion. It’s okay being passionate about what you do, but it is essential that you learn to be passionate about business too; that’s being passionate about all the elements.

Finally, make sure you always think strategically and the best way to do that is really to understand your future market and competition and then maybe, just maybe, you’ll be a business alchemist too.

For more contact me on cb@chris-batten.com

Chris Batten RAINMAKER

C

Your Personal Rainmaker

M

Y

CM

Free weekly business tips and leadership hints. No tricks, no

MY

catches, simply email yes to hello@chris-batten.com with your preferred email address for delivery.

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www.chris-batten.com

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Diary Dates.

JANUARY

MARCH

26 Business Leader’s Event, Norwich

8 Chamber HR Forum, Norwich

WHEN? Wednesday, 26 January, 7:45am – 9:30am

WHEN? Tuesday, 8 March, 2:00pm – 5:00pm

WHERE? St Andrews House, City College, Norwich

WHERE? Dunston Hall Hotel, Norwich

WHAT’S IT ABOUT? Invitation-only event for Business Leaders in Norfolk. Sponsored by City College.

WHAT’S IT ABOUT? A must for all HR professionals to keep up to date with new legislation.

Sponsored and presented by Rogers & Norton.

To book: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

27 Mix@Six, Norwich

10 Meet the Buyer, Great Yarmouth

WHEN? Thursday, 27 January, 5:45pm – 8:00pm WHERE? Number Ten Bowling, Bowthorpe, Norwich WHAT’S IT ABOUT? Battle it out for the ultimate Chamber Bowling Championship. Book a team of six, or join in with a team on the night.

To book: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

FEBRUARY

8 Procurement Conference, Great Yarmouth WHEN? Tuesday, 8 February, 8:30am – 2:00pm WHERE? Great Yarmouth Racecourse WHAT’S IT ABOUT? A half-day conference organised by the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and in association with the East of England Energy Group (EEEGr) and enterpriseGY. We bring a group of specialists together to give you an informative overview of how to win business with large corporations.

WHEN? Thursday, 10 March, 9:00am – 2:00pm WHERE? Great Yarmouth Racecourse WHAT’S IT ABOUT? A one-day meet the buyer event in partnership with enterpriseGY. Meet some of the county’s biggest purchasers for one-on-one appointments. For more information, contact lisa.li@norfolkchamber.co.uk

11 Lord Mayor’s Ball, Norwich WHEN? Friday, 11 March, 6:45pm – late WHERE? Sprowston Manor Hotel, Norwich WHAT’S IT ABOUT? A must for all City of Norwich businesses. Tables of 10 for just £500 per table, with proceeds donated to the Rotary House for the Deaf. Sponsorship opportunities available.

For more information, contact lisa.li@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Refresh your business at B2B Spring 2011 How do you find new business opportunities in a recession?

Here’s how…our flagship B2B spring event, which will be held at Norwich City Football Club on 31 March.

You really can’t afford to miss it because it’s Norfolk’s largest b2b event, run on two floors, with seven themed business zones, workshops, special show-only offers and much more.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to set your stall out as an exhibitor, network with like-minded people, find new ideas and new possibilities to help your business grow and develop.

All this and it’s FREE for visitors to attend!

We’re also offering some great stand deals for early bookings.

To book: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

10 The High Five Series, West Norfolk WHEN? Thursday, 10 February, 12:30pm – 2:00pm WHERE? Congham Hall, Kings Lynn

Contact

WHAT’S IT ABOUT? We invite all local West Norfolk businesses to attend the last event in this series, where you can hear first hand from Tom Harrison of Morston Assets sharing his key drivers for success. Sponsored by Lloyds TSB and Hayhow.

debbie.sykes@norfolkchamber.co.uk

31 B2B Spring 2011, Norwich

To book: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

WHEN? Thursday, 31 March, 11:00am – 5:00pm

15 The ‘Go Ape’ Story, Norwich

WHERE? Norwich City Football Club, Norwich

WHEN? Tuesday, 15 February, 7:45am – 9:30am WHERE? Norwich City Football Club, Norwich WHAT’S IT ABOUT? Hear Jerome Mayhew, Managing Director of ‘Go Ape’, share the story of how they grew into the successful company they are today.

or call 01603 729705 for more details.

WHAT’S IT ABOUT? Our flagship event with over 80 exhibitors on two floors. For stand bookings and sponsorship opportunities contact debbie.sykes@norfolkchamber.co.uk

To book: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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NORFOLK VOICE

DEB JORDAN.

THE BI

The love affair that combines passion with business sense Deb Jordan fell in love with Pensthorpe the moment she saw it – it’s a love affair that has helped turn it into one of Norfolk’s most popular tourist attractions.

Perhaps known to most people as the home of BBC Television show Springwatch, Pensthorpe Nature Reserve and Gardens, near Fakenham, supports a wide range of endangered wildlife, including corncrakes, red squirrels and cranes.

And although it’s run as a business, for co-owner Deb there’s something much deeper.

Recalling the moment she and husband Bill first saw it, she said: “We saw it in Country Life Magazine. Oddly enough, we have never purchased the magazine before or since then.

Typical of how fate plays such a big role in our lives. When I saw it was for sale I showed Bill just out of interest really, and saw how his eyes lit up. It was some time before we were back in Norfolk and it was not a surprise to me that he suggested a family trip to Pensthorpe.

“We were all hooked from the first. The reality is that we fell madly in love with it in an instant. I was gripped with the sense of well-being that it engenders.

“I made a huge show of resistance, but knew it was hopeless right from the start. It was one of those idyllic days when the sun shone, the birds and nature were at their best and we bumped into the owner who went to find the children some peacock feathers he had hidden away.

He mentioned the sale had fallen through some months back.”

For Deb, the takeover in 2003 of the site, which owes some of its distinctive appearance to past gravel extraction, was the chance to reconnect with the world around her.

She said: “I was born on a farm in Ringstead and spent the summer holidays out in the fields with no worries about health and safety or any such thing. As you grow older I think you gain an acceptance of “put more in, get more out”.

Pensthorpe is an extraordinary place and I do feel that it has something spiritual about it.”

For all its remarkable attributes, Pensthorpe does have to be run as a business. Right from the start, the couple were determined that it would be independent and not reliant on their well known food company Jordans.

n Deb Jordan, Co-owner Pensthorpe Nature Reserve and Gardens

To bring in the money needed to protect and develop important wildlife habitats, the reserve has expanded to include a very large and

diverse gift shop and a popular café, both of which provide work for local people.

Deb said: “I think people imagine that it is part of Jordans, but that is not the case and we have had to learn a number of lessons. For a start, the reserve has to be sustainable and to pay its high annual costs it has to generate its own funds by encouraging more visitors to get closer to nature and visit the reserve. We now turnover £1.5m a year, which has trebled since we started, and employ more than 50 people at the busiest times of the year and a core of around 25. We have put together a very skilled team.”

Lying at the heart of everything the reserve team do is education and conservation. When the couple took over the estate, it had been dedicated to largely exotic species, but they have worked to develop a more natural feel.

Deb said: “It has proved difficult to change the perception of the reserve, but we have focused on more native species. We have set out to educate people about the threats posed to native wildlife by declining habitats. Education is a big theme for us.

“One of the best aspects of the job for me is learning heaps about birds and nature conservation, which would not have been the case had we not bought Pensthorpe. Also gleaning information from very knowledgeable and dedicated people in this field of work, who I would not have met if we hadn’t come here.”

A major boost for the Reserve was the BBC’s decision three years ago to base its popular Springwatch show at the reserve.

Deb said: “It started when Bill Oddie came to film a piece about corncrakes for one of his wildlife programmes and we subsequently heard that we were being considered for Springwatch. We held our breath then they confirmed they would be coming. I think they were attracted by the fact that there is so much to see here, so many different types of habitat.

“After the first show, I was listening to the radio and heard Terry Wogan chatting about Pensthorpe. I thought “that’s us! Terry Wogan is talking about us and North Norfolk!”

The value of the site has been acknowledged by others as well, with the reserve winning a

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

BIG INTERVIEW

By John Dean

deangriss@btinternet.com

n Aerial view of the reserve in Autumn © Mike Page

I was born on a farm in Ringstead and spent the summer holidays out in the fields with no worries about health and safety or any such thing. As you grow older I think you gain an acceptance of “put more in, get more out”. Pensthorpe is an extraordinary place and I do feel that it has something spiritual about it.

clutch of awards, including in 2009 The Berry Savory Award for Norfolk’s Best Tourist Attraction over 60,000 visitors.

The future for Pensthorpe’s connection with Springwatch is somewhat uncertain as the 2010 show was probably the last in its current format.

Deb is not sure how the reserve will feature in future shows but acknowledges the important role the programme has played in bringing its education programme to a wider audience.

“I think people used to see caring for wildlife as something rather unglamorous and exclusive, but I think they are beginning to see it differently now. They are seeing the enjoyment to be had from wildlife and a lot of what we do is peoplebased. Our view is that we are custodians of the countryside and the legacy we leave for our children is important. My view is that life is very short and there is not much time to make a difference.”

And she knows the job is far from done.

“Although we have been here since 2003, I feel we have not really tapped into everything this place has to offer. I believe we are all given opportunities and can make good or bad decisions in life at any stage.�If I have a regret, it is that we did not come here earlier. There is so much to do.”

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NORFOLK VOICE

Making sure the rural economy is not forgotten.

n Hannah Deane

At a time when so much attention is focused on how industry will emerge from recession, the role of the rural economy can sometimes be forgotten. However, businesses operating in the countryside face just as many challenges – and show just as much innovation.

It is vital for Norfolk that they succeed, as illustrated by statistics for farming alone in the Broads, which ranges from arable crops and horticulture to livestock and dairy. According to the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), the farms employ 8,500 people and support jobs in areas including food processing, haulage, farm equipment suppliers and business advice.

The important role played by agriculture and horticulture within the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads was highlighted in a NFU report released last year. ‘Why Farming Matters to the Broads’ set out to show how farming is linked to the local economy through everything from tourism to food production.

Norfolk NFU county delegate Richard Hirst, chairman of the working group behind the report, said: “It is time to stop undervaluing the contribution farming makes to the Broads.

As the report shows, this is an industry that generates more than £150 million annually to the regional economy, produces high quality

fresh food and helps protect the landscape. It is farming that helped shape the Broads and it is farming that has a huge amount to offer as we grapple with issues such as climate change and producing more food, while impacting less on the environment.”

According to the NFU, there remains much to be done to help the rural economy, including: n Flexible planning policies that allow diversified farm businesses to flourish. n A commitment to long-term investment in sea and river defences. n Changes to environmental schemes to recognise the contribution made by lowland graziers. n Training programmes to help farmers maximise resources.

The comments chime with a national NFU campaign, called The Recovery: Why Farming Matters. NFU President Peter Kendall said: “When

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COVER FEATURE

n David McCarthy

I hear senior politicians talk about the need to rebalance our economy, when I hear the Energy Secretary announce that the era of cheap energy is over and the Prime Minister talk about the need for people to come together and work together to pull Britain out of the doldrums, I’m happy to hold up farming as an example of answers in action.”

For Norwich businessman David McCarthy, an important factor in supporting the rural economy is local produce. It is a philosophy that has made D & F McCarthy one of Norfolk‘s business success stories.

The fruit and vegetable distribution company has been operating in Norfolk for more than a century, collecting produce from local farms and delivering to retail and catering outlets in Norfolk and north Suffolk. The company, which in 2010 opened a new state-of-the art distribution centre in Memorial Way, Norwich, has an annual turnover of more than £10 million and handles up to 100 pallets of produce per day.

environmentally-managed grazing marshes and arable land.

Making sure the rural economy maintains its hard-fought gains

Hannah said of Dairy Barns: “The company has increased its profitability every year since opening in December 2005. I attribute our success to working hard on the initial business case to see if the idea was feasible and, as we are a family business, a key part of that was to bring in an outside rural business consultant to ensure we thought through all the elements.

Christine Hill, Norfolk NFU Chairman, said: “We have a British agriculture, with our Norfolk production and countryside in particular, to be proud of with some of the best quality fresh produce and ingredients anywhere in the world.

Our rural economy has undergone considerable and hard-fought-for change over the past 15 years or so, driven by economic necessity. It is imperative the progress made is built on when the threat of climate change, coupled with population increase, is likely to create more uncertainty in global food supplies.

“Since opening, we have been busier and more successful than we ever anticipated with both accommodation and functions. When you start out, you have to be willing to work all hours and take on business which may not initially be profitable but that you feel may lead to bigger and better things. And you mustn’t be afraid to talk to people about your business and show them around. Word of mouth has been key to people finding out more about our business.

“Being rural is, of course, an advantage for the business as we are in a tourist area. But from a business point of view, slow broadband, no public transport and some peoples’ perception of us being “in the middle of nowhere” can cause problems.

“We are always looking at new ways to get people to visit us and social media such as Facebook, and encouraging guests to undertake on-line reviews on TripAdvisor and the like, have been of great advantage and have no cost to us.”

David said: “We believe that customers appreciate that we source produce from local growers whenever possible. We take our produce from a range of local growers, many of them small businesses. We try to support these types of businesses wherever possible.”

Everywhere you look in Norfolk, there are rural businesses working on innovative ways to increase income. Take Hannah and Ian Deane, who run Dairy Barns, at Hickling, a farm diversification project that provides accommodation and function space. Situated in the heart of the Broads, the business complements Lound Farm, a working family farm, which they own and run and which covers 360 acres of

It is time to stop undervaluing the contribution farming makes to the Broads. As the report shows, this is an industry that generates more than £150 million annually to the regional economy, produces high quality fresh food and helps protect the landscape.

“Good communication links, be they broadband or bus services, are vital in rural communities so that people can keep in touch with markets and customers and gain much needed skills and training, especially vital for new entrants to farming. These skills need the support of good scientific and practical research to move production forward while maintaining good stewardship of our countryside, which attracts so much tourism and to which we all feel a sense of belonging.

“Diversity of land type and local climate allow a broad range of cropping in Norfolk, which makes up our unique landscape. Economic pressures tend to reduce the range of crops which can be catered for in terms of labour, machinery, buildings and equipment, so encouragement of local food for local people is extremely important, as are the supply and ancillary industries which need to be local to service the farms.

“Agriculture interacts with many different agencies and we need joined-up goals and interaction between them to attract the greatest efficiency and confidence to venture into innovative ideas. This awareness will pay real dividends for individuals and groups of farming businesses as we progress out of recession in the coming years. We need freedom, not more regulation, to have the confidence to reach out as businesses and communities to take our countryside forward.”

n Christine Hill

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NORFOLK VOICE

Prevention is best medicine.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

NewGenn is a well-established small company with a long reach, selling as far afield as Korea and Malaysia. We use gentle cleaning technology to stop diseases, creating mass niche markets where the company is readily accepted.

Our preference is for prevention rather than treatment. Successful prevention means you eliminate the disease and in time do away with your own business opportunity. In contrast, those who simply treat diseases can expect long-term profits from the sufferer’s continued discomfort.

So how can a company succeed, thrive and develop global potential if it’s always putting its customers before its own profits? By addressing diseases that affect many millions of people around the world.

NewGenn designs and manufactures its own products. Export national licensees can manufacture from concentrates to reduce their costs and enhance market penetration.

NewGenn’s profits are built into the supply chain as the concentrates are made here in Norfolk.

Eczema is our current target, as 6,000,000 Britons suffer from the chronic patches of red and itchy skin. True to its principals, NewGenn doesn’t sell products which people can use on their damaged skin for years – we prefer to help them fix their skin in 2 to 3 weeks. When freed from

the misery and pain, the escapees become incredibly strong advocates who sell for us on a global scale. We just work away developing far-reaching disease prevention strategies and set a massive unpaid army of advocates on the path to victory.

Products are only part of the success against eczema. Another major component is building confidence. The authorities tell those with eczema that it can’t be cured, leading to deeply entrenched limiting beliefs. To challenge that negative thinking Dr Farmer invented the word EXeczema® to help those who were ready to move on. That simple process has achieved tremendous results. The EXeczema products consistently allow people to move on from eczema in a matter of weeks, even if they’ve suffered for decades.

What plans for the future? In 2011 the EXeczema campaign will be expanded through social media and direct internet sales. More export national licensees will be engaged, beginning in Eastern Europe and Africa.

However the real prize will be seeing more Norfolk people benefit from this local success, either as distributors or individual users. If you want to help please contact Dr Harley Farmer, NewGenn’s CEO and co-founder. He readily admits “We need help!” and firmly believes people like to see others escape disease. If you know of anyone with eczema and would like to free them, please contact NewGenn. Should you be a potential investor then please call Dr Farmer direct.

How long will it take to beat a disease that affects 10% of people throughout the developed world? Who knows? Will it finance NewGenn’s growth and global expansion for several years?

Easily.

NewGenn is located in Roudham, NR16 2SR, and can be contacted on 01953 717757 or www.newgenn.co.uk.

Thank you – we look forward to hearing from you.

The EXeczema products consistently allow people to move on from eczema in a matter of weeks, even if they’ve suffered for decades.

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MANUFACTURING

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NORFOLK VOICE

Manufacturing the new age dawns.

The idea of transferable skills is one in which Norfolk and the wider region is carving out new business opportunities

It’s one of those quotes that you hear so many times when people discuss the state of the UK economy. “Of course, in the old days,” folks say, “Britain used to make things.

Not now, though. Now we have not got a manufacturing sector.

There is nothing left.”

In view of such comments, it will doubtless come as a surprise to such people to hear that the UK is actually still the sixth largest manufacturer globally. And that, despite intensive international competition, the UK is at the cutting edge of many new advanced engineering and manufacturing techniques.

One of the areas making that happen is the East of England region, including Norfolk.

It is estimated that the region supports 18,000 businesses in various aspects of the manufacturing sector, attracting some of the most skilled workers nationally and internationally.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) suggest that Norfolk itself has 2,465 companies involved in ‘production’. However, that only tells half the story because the county also has many other companies that have established a reputation for hi-tech services. Many of those companies support the manufacturing sector, their role to maintain the

crucial supply chains on which manufacture relies.

The ONS figures show, for example, that the county has 3,680 companies involved in professional, scientific and technical work and a further 1,180 involved in transport and storage.

Many of these companies are vital for the continued success of manufacture in Norfolk and the wider East of England.

The Norwich experience also underlines the way that manufacturing is part of the wider economy. According to the City Council, employment in Norwich is predominantly service sector-based, reflecting the national picture, with the Business and Financial Sector accounting for 31% of employment in Norwich, 26% of people employed in public services, 12% employed in the retail sector and 7% in tourism.

The manufacturing sector accounts for almost 8% of employment in Norwich. It’s an important piece of the jigsaw.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE One of the reasons that manufacturing companies and those that service them continue to play their part despite challenging global trading conditions is that the East of England is renowned for generating ideas. It has the expertise to transform them into R&D opportunities then turn out products which are, in many cases, world-leaders. The manufacturing sector has proved the truth of that old adage, that standing still in business actually means going backwards and that innovation is crucial.

One of the areas in which this innovation is happening is renewable energy, including companies working in offshore wind, biorenewables and ‘green’ vehicles. It is a boom industry and Norfolk and the wider East of England region is at the forefront of a lot of what is being achieved.

Their success in places like Norfolk illustrates the way in which manufacturing and engineering skills are finding new life in the 21st Century. These may be modern technologies but there is a very real link with the past. Rather than dying out, as some may have imagined when traditional sectors hit economic difficulties, those skills have been adapted by companies working on renewables instead. An engineer who worked

in a ‘traditional’ engineering plant will find his or her skills just as useful when it comes to the development of latest-generation wind turbines, or the new generation of anaerobic digestors.

The idea of transferable skills is one in which Norfolk and the wider region is carving out new business opportunities.

The work being done around low-carbon vehicle design, development and manufacture in the East of England perfectly illustrates the point that old skills can morph seamlessly into new ones. The UK now has a world-leading position in automotives, thanks to the work of major motor manufacturers and world-class Research and Development centres in places like the East of England.

Across Norfolk can be found companies carrying out truly ground-breaking work in all sorts of sectors, not just renewables. From motorsport – world-renowned motor manufacturer the Lotus Group has its headquarters in Norfolk and is constantly innovating – to boat building, the area has developed an enviable pool of skilled workers.

The result has been new opportunities opening up for the engineering and fabrication sectors, which already employ thousands of people, as well as for those support companies that see in the success of manufacturing new opportunities to offer their services.

Manufacturing dead? Rumours of its demise are turning out to be somewhat exaggerated!

Much of the work is centring on new methods of design, how to use advanced materials to make vehicles lighter and stronger and also the development of alternative fuels like biofuels, electricity and hydrogen to reduce damaging exhaust emissions. Work being done in this part of the world will dramatically influence motor vehicle manufacture in the decades to come.

It’s another area in which the region is leading the country and, in some cases, the world.

Their success in places like Norfolk illustrates the way in which manufacturing and engineering skills are finding new life in the 21st Century.

These may be modern technologies, but there is a very real link with the past.

Rather than dying out, as some may have imagined when traditional sectors hit economic difficulties, those skills have been adapted by companies working on renewables instead.

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NORFOLK VOICE

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OUTOFOFFICE_86.5x110:OUTOFOFFICE

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NORFOLK VOICE

Providing the personal touch.

The good venues are the ones that can tailor themselves to providing the exact needs of the event organisers. It is always worth getting to know one particular individual who can deal with any issues that arise.

Anyone in business will tell you that, despite the rapid advances in communications technology, faceto-face contact remains the best way of bringing in new contracts and retaining existing ones.

Email and hand-held communications may be transforming the world in which we live, but the human touch is never more important than in testing economic times.

For many business people, the place to create and cement those personal contacts is at conferences, exhibitions and trade shows: humans still have a fundamental need to look each other in the eye when communicating, despite the rapid growth of the Internet.

The key to making such events a success is spending a little time choosing the right venue and making sure that you get the right support from its staff.

Even if that means paying a little extra, it is money well spent because it does not make sense to cut corners when such an approach could make your event less than effective. There

are few things more embarrassing for an event organiser than to see it unravel in front of them because they skimped on the planning – and a cheap venue will inevitably look cheap, presenting a poor image of the organiser’s organisation.

So what are you looking for if you are trying to organise an event? Well, one of the key factors is a good location, somewhere that is easy to reach and that looks attractive for delegates, especially if they will be staying overnight.

That means not just having good conference facilities but the scope to provide quality food and relaxing areas where delegates can gather informally. Somewhere with pleasant grounds is also a bonus.

When assessing the venue you are looking for, a number of other important factors must

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CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITIONS

ADVERTISING FEATURE be considered. Can the venue cope with the numbers expected to attend, has it got a good meeting room, will it provide equipment like projectors and Internet access, are the staff friendly and flexible in helping you meet your needs? If the answers to those questions are yes then the event is likely to be a success.

The staff at these companies live and breathe event organisation and will have encountered just about every problem presented by the process. Yes, it may add a little to the cost of organising a conference, but specialists make sure that they run smoothly – and will sort any problems on the day.

Experienced venue managers and their staff already know what is important to their users and will do everything in their power to make sure that the delegates’ needs are met. Their staff have been trained in conference management and know that the human touch is just as important as the right equipment.

Another advantage is that because they are so experienced, they will know all the key venue staff in an area and will already have a good working relationship – and may even be able to negotiate good deals.

The good venues are the ones that can tailor themselves to providing the exact needs of the event organisers. It is always worth getting to know one particular individual who can deal with any issues that arise.

But at a time when the bottom line is all-important, how can a company justify spending to attend a conference, or organising their own? Well, talk to people within the conference industry and they will tell you that they see business relationships growing by the minute at their events.

Another approach is to dispense with all the worry and anxiety involved in organising an event yourself by bringing in a specialist company to do it.

They see existing clients and contractors breathing new life into their relationships simply by meeting and people beginning to talk to people they didn’t even know existed.

Those conversations often lead to exciting opportunities.

Look round a conference and you will see people talking at their stands, but also wandering off for a coffee or for a chat in a corner. That is where the real business often happens, where personal relationships are forged and where ideas are firmed up.

There is also a knock-on effect on morale within companies taking part. During difficult economic times, many companies cut back, but taking a stand at an exhibition shows that you are optimistic about your business and confident enough to tell the world about it. A company prepared to organise or attend events like that is presenting a positive image and that counts for a lot in the world of business.

It counts for a lot with employees as well, because some of that confidence rubs off on them. They feel a sense of pride in their company – and at the end of the day it is people that make companies work. It’s back to that allimportant personal touch.

Look round a conference and you will see people talking at their stands, but also wandering off for a coffee or for a chat in a corner. That is where the real business often happens, where personal relationships are forged and where ideas are firmed up.

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NORFOLK VOICE

The Forum – a unique mix of business opportunities.

Whether you are looking to grow your business, network with new clients, engage with your staff or showcase your talents to a local, national or international audience, The Forum, in Norwich, offers contemporary facilities and bespoke hospitality right here on your doorstep. n Fusion – imaginative, innovative, unique

No two days are ever the same at The Forum.

The ever-changing reflections in the iconic steel and glass frontage, the lively exhibitions and events in the open spaces, along with the businesses and services inside, create an eclectic mix of experiences.

This landmark Millennium building, with its imposing presence in the retail and business heart of Norwich, continues to be many things to many people, and each year the footfall through the massive, glass-roofed Atrium is around two and a half million.

The Forum is constantly developing its role as a public meeting place, a unique exhibition and entertainment venue and as a source of new information and opportunities for all. The Forum strives to be a high profile champion of artistic endeavour, community achievements and business excellence.

Bespoke Event Management In 2009 The Forum Trust, the self-funding charity which looks after the building and administers a year-round programme of activities and events, redeveloped the building’s south side, providing Norfolk with a purpose-built auditorium, called The Curve, and the biggest digital gallery in Europe, called Fusion.

“What these new, high-spec spaces have enabled us to do,” says Robin Hall, The Forum

Trust’s Chief Executive, “is offer bespoke event management to all sectors of the community, whether it’s the business sector, the public sector, the third sector and everyone in between, large, medium or small.

“Our 120-seat auditorium, The Curve, has been hired for AGMs, training seminars, multi-media presentations, drama productions, networking events and much more, each booking being tailored to the needs of our customers.”

Impressive HD technology, broadcast quality microphones, touch screen controls and creative lighting panels ensure that events in The Curve are a cut above the rest; no wobbly power point presentations and rumpled table cloths here!

And for those who need to communicate, effectively and sustainably, with national or international audiences, the video conferencing facilities and internet streaming enable business focused events in the centre of Norwich to go global.

Fusion at The Forum has given Norfolk the largest permanent digital gallery in Europe.

During the day Fusion is a free public attraction and a showcase for creativity, exhibiting a range of work by filmmakers, artists, individuals and talented groups from around the region. Outside public hours it can be transformed into a truly unique corporate and entertainment venue.

“Fusion opens up endless opportunities for all types and sizes of businesses,” says Mark Hand, Head of Marketing and Business Development at The Forum Trust.

“Imagine launching a new sustainable product in a rainforest setting, surrounded by HD treetop footage and crystal clear birdsong. Or entertaining clients at a wine tasting evening, with the sights and sounds of Tuscany as a backdrop.

Creativity and Imagination

“Since Fusion and The Curve opened we have used these incredible spaces to help businesses launch, sell, engage and entertain in all manner of imaginative ways and we’re still managing to surprise ourselves!”

Finding new ways to engage with customers and clients is a constant challenge, but The Forum has a unique facility up its sleeve. It’s called Fusion, a giant gallery with digital ‘sound showers’, creative lighting and a 24-metre digital screen as the centrepiece.

A model that has proved extremely popular is using the informality and novelty of Fusion as a networking area, before taking guests or clients into the more formal surroundings of The Curve, in order to get down to business.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE n The Curve auditorium

n An evening event in The Atrium

Factfile

The Forum benefits from an annual footfall of around 2.5 million The Atrium provides almost 1000 sq metres for exhibitions and events The Curve offers HD, video conferencing and web-streaming technology Fusion has the largest fixed digital screen in Europe – 24 metres wide

n Fusion in use

“Fusion breaks down barriers and provides a talking point”, says Mark Hand. “It’s also interactive. You can think beyond wine and canapés and set up a giant gaming area using Wii technology. Or go the whole hog and turn either Fusion or The Curve into a private cinema.

“We are still discovering the possibilities of the technology and the spaces and our clients are proving key to this process by coming up with their own ideas and stretching all our imaginations.”

Millennium Plain is a busy thoroughfare between two shopping centres - ideal for public engagement

n Crowds on Milennium Plain

“We are focused on close community partnership work across the board, as we deliver events and activities which show Norfolk at its best and which bring out the best in Norfolk.”

In Spring 2011, for example, The Forum is working with many businesses and public sector partners, including City College Norwich and Norwich

“We are here to contribute towards the economic growth, cultural life and reputation of Norwich and Norfolk,” says Robin Hall, “and at a time when the public, private and third sectors are all facing enormous challenges we realise our role has become even more important.

“We are offering a broad spectrum of opportunities here,” says Mark Hand, “because we’re exploring technologies related to communications, education, climatology, food production, creative arts, sport, entertainment and more.

“New technology touches all our lives and we will be complementing the public-facing exhibitions and activities with more targeted, business-focused events in The Curve and Fusion.”

Business and Community Partnerships The Forum Trust’s plans for the future are firmly rooted in its mission statement; to help all of Norfolk’s communities explore and understand new technology, climate change, educational opportunities, cultural developments and diversity.

University College of the Arts (NUCA), to deliver a month-long ‘festival’ of technology.

We can use all our incredible spaces to help businesses launch, sell, engage and entertain in all manner of imaginative ways and we’re still managing to surprise ourselves.

The Forum is a distinctive venue, offering an incredible range of opportunities for all sizes of businesses; where else can you hold an intimate training session, a creative networking event, a formal AGM, a public-facing exhibition, an international video conference and a team-bonding pizza-making class... all under one very big glass roof?

If you would like to know more about the Spring 2011 technology month, about The Curve, Fusion and other spaces and facilities at The Forum, visit www.theforumnorwich.co.uk Or contact Mark Hand, Head of Marketing and Business Development, directly on 01603 727920 or at mark.hand@theforumnorwich.co.uk

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NORFOLK VOICE

Norwich law firm opens offices in London and Manchester.

The Norwich office of leading regional law firm Howes Percival is expanding its insolvency and corporate recovery work with the opening of two new satellite offices in London and Manchester.

Howes Percival, which is highly regarded

by Chambers & Partners and the Legal 500 for its work in this area, already provides contentious and non-contentious expertise for insolvency practitioners, commercial clients and government departments across the UK. The opening of the London and Manchester offices is a significant step forward in further developing its national reach.

Howes Percival’s Insolvency and Corporate Recovery group is one of the largest specialist units of its kind in the country. In addition to providing a full service offering to those affected by financial stress and formal insolvency, the group specialises in contentious insolvency work – for which it has a pre-eminent national reputation.

Howes Percival is the only firm in the UK contracted to provide insolvency advice and litigation services to both the Insolvency Service (an executive agency of the Department of Business, Innovation & Skills) and HM Revenue and Customs. The opening of the London and Manchester offices will allow the firm to enhance the levels of service it provides to these clients, in addition to extending its national insolvency and corporate recovery offering.

Howes Percival’s Managing Partner in Norwich, Andrew Barnes, commented: “The opening of the new offices in London and Manchester represents a very significant expansion for the Norwich operation. The move will further strengthen our proposition to offer high quality advice and cost effective, commercial and practical solutions to clients based across the country – city quality at regional prices.

“The intention is for the bulk of the work to be done in the Norwich office, which is a centre of excellence for insolvency and corporate

n Nick Oliver and Andrew Barnes

recovery work. We will be expanding our team of specialists in Norwich as a result of this announcement and investing further in technology to help us deal with cases, including those of the greatest complexity, seamlessly and cost effectively.

“While much of our business is still centred on serving the Eastern region, it is impossible to ignore London and Manchester as key markets for insolvency and corporate recovery work. Our intention is that the satellite offices will also grow in time to cover other types of work.”

The office in central London at 160 - 161 Drury Lane, on the border of Covent Garden and Holborn, will be headed by Nick Oliver, a specialist in contentious and fraud-related insolvency work. Nick acts for insolvency practitioners as well as other clients such as banks and multinational companies. Nick Oliver joined Howes Percival in August 2010 from London solicitors Blake Lapthorn, where he was a partner and head of team. Nick will also take responsibility for the larger Norwich-based insolvency team, which will remain the centre of excellence for the administration of this work.

The Norwich office will also remain the lead office for the team servicing the work for the Insolvency Service. This team, headed by partner Morris Peacock, continues to carry out investigations into companies prior to directors disqualification proceedings being taken, the

conduct of those proceedings and the windingup of companies found to be acting contrary to the public interest.

The Manchester office is situated at 19 Spring Gardens, in the heart of Manchester’s commercial centre. This office will be headed by partner Richard Healey. Richard has extensive experience of acting for insolvency practitioners. Richard is also responsible for the work undertaken by Howes Percival on behalf of HM Revenue & Customs. In addition to Richard’s work for HM Revenue & Customs and his contentious insolvency work, he also leads Howes Percival’s Corporate Fraud team, undertaking work on behalf of both institutional and private clients in relation to cases involving civil claims for fraud.

The insolvency experience of both Nick Oliver and Richard Healey has led to them being identified as leaders in their field by Chambers & Partners’ Guide to the legal profession.

Andrew Barnes concluded: “Our Insolvency and Corporate Recovery group has a national reputation for its specialist insolvency work. For a number of years the group has been at the forefront of the development of the law and practice relating to insolvency litigation and related funding solutions including Conditional Fee Agreements and ‘Adverse Costs’ insurance.

It has acted on some of the most complex and high profile cases in recent years.”

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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CHAMBER SAVINGS

Commercial Savings For Your Company.

As a member of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce you are entitled to a number of Commercial Benefits including Healthcare Plans, HR Support, Purchasing Discounts and Insurance Coverage that will not only help you save on operational costs, but can also be passed on to the benefit of your employees.

Negotiated at a national level and leveraging on the buying power of The British Chambers of Commerce Network of county chambers, service rates are free or at least comparable to those procured by large-scale corporations.

Below is a summary of each offering. Contact debbie.sykes@norfolkchamber.co.uk to find out more.

Chamber Legal

Chamber Health 1

Chamber Utility Auditing

FREE 24/7 Legal Helpline + Legal Expenses Insurance with up to £670,000 of indemnity, worth a minimum of £125 for the smallest business.

Chamber Optical & Dental Healthcare Plan from Westfield – provide your staff with healthcare from as little as £1.10 per week. Holistic treatments also included.

Free comprehensive review of your utility bills by approved specialists to make sure your business is getting the most competitive rates.

Chamber HR

Chamber Health 2

CHAMBER DIGEST

FREE 24/7 HR Helpline + Online Resource with downloadable templates, policies and updates on employment law worth a minimum of £350 for the smallest business.

Chamber Private Healthcare Plan from AXA PPP Healthcare.

On the right road.

The East of England’s bid to become a haven for electric vehicle owners has been delivered to Westminster. The plans for a £7 million project include 600 plug-in posts. One of the team that delivered the bid, MEP Vicky Ford, said: “With innovative local businesses throughout the advanced manufacturing and low carbon sectors, the East of England has the potential to lead the way and become a real test bed for new technologies to drive forward the development of next generation electric vehicles.” The bid, ‘Evalu8’, has provided plans to install plug-in posts in the following areas: Norwich (84 posts), Bedford (75 posts), Cambridge (84 posts), Ipswich (63 posts), Peterborough (75 posts), Luton and Hertfordshire (105 posts), and Thames Gateway South Essex (114 posts), London Stansted Airport (10 posts).

Chamber Purchasing

Chamber Debt Recovery

The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and AF Affinity have joined forces to give you access to Chamber Purchasing. Your business can now leverage on the buying might of Anglia Farmers through its subsidiary AF Affinity, enabling you to buy goods and services at very competitive prices.

Debt Recovery Service – Free initial letter and a small fixed fee if the debt is recovered. No charge if the debt is not recovered.

Chamber Finance

Chamber AA Fleet

FREE business banking for one year for established business and 3 years’ free banking for start-ups with Natwest as a Chamber Member.

Save up to 61% on AA Fleet Membership for company vehicles with Chamber Fleet Assist

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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NORFOLK VOICE

Healthy Staff + Healthy Business.

Your workforce is your most precious asset – but only if it’s healthy!

More and more employers are realising the importance of health and wellbeing in the workplace and investing in initiatives to engage their employees. The key drivers for this are: n Cost – of sickness absence, recruitment and productivity n Competition – employers must stand out to attract and keep quality staff n Corporate social responsibility – improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families, as well as the local community and society at large The Norfolk Chamber has recognised that a strong focus on employee health could bring huge long-term benefits to the region, and has developed an exciting new campaign ‘Healthy Staff + Healthy Business‘, which will strive to involve the Norfolk business community in a fun and challenging way to help them improve their mental and physical wellbeing.

Caroline Williams, CEO of the Norfolk Chamber, says: “Healthy Staff + Healthy Business will raise

awareness across businesses in Norfolk. Our aim is to help employers and employees to be more aware of their own health, and to understand how good health and wellbeing make good business sense. The statistics are significant. For instance a company in Bungay introduced a health and wellbeing initiative, including learning, and staff satisfaction rose from 40% to 90% in the period May 2009 to April 2010.

n Obesity costs England 18 million sick days per year, estimated at £1.45 billion for sickness absence

“We’ve already had a great deal of interest from both private and public sector organisations wanting to get involved. Many businesses are already doing a great deal for their staff, but not in a coordinated way, and we can help them maximise its effectiveness.

n Each week one million people (4% of workforce) take time off work due to illness

“Next year is going to be tough for everyone, so our aim is to have fun and at the same time help motivate employees across the county to take better health more seriously and increase Norfolk’s businesses bottom line.”

The statistics about health in the UK are quite startling:

n Work-related musculoskeletal disorders result in 8.8 million working days per year being lost on sickness absence. The costs of these conditions to society are over £7 billion per year

n Poor eating habits lead to a productivity loss of almost 97 million working days, worth £16 billion a year Norfolk Chamber would like to highlight good practise and innovative ideas across Norfolk, so please get in touch and help us with this campaign by sending us details about what you are already doing or of you would like to know more. Contact Caroline Williams at cw@norfolkchamber.co.uk

n The total cost to UK employers of metal ill health among their staff is over £25 billion, equivalent to £1,032 per employee in the workforce

A busy season leads to growth and development at Canary Squares.

Not only is Canary Squares (canarysquares.co.uk) a world-first concept which has caught the attention of Premiership football clubs and rugby teams around the world, but support and enthusiasm closer to home has enabled the site to undertake a number of exciting marketing ventures which are helping to cement its reputation as a ‘business to watch’ throughout 2011.

Canary Squares originally went ‘live’ in early 2010 as an opportunity for fans and businesses to claim their very own stake in the Carrow Road pitch. Regular competitions were held, driving thousands of visitors to CanarySquares.co.uk to try to win ‘money can’t buy’ prizes, including signed merchandise and lunches with the players.

As well as welcoming business supporters such as Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, the National Trust, BeWILDerwood, Pleasurewood Hills, ipatter. com and Norwich Puppet Theatre, the site has

recently launched a campaign with Heart FM which is generating widespread consumer awareness of the concept.

stand busy with interested parties keen to find out how this innovative and popular method of marketing could help their business.

Paul Williamson from Canary Squares comments: “A square on the pitch not only serves businesses very well, enabling them to advertise a logo and company information on the pitch from just 7p per day, but the squares make for excellent Christmas presents for fans. So a balanced approach to both consumer and business markets is essential at this key time of year. We are also undertaking an active PR campaign which enables us to further heighten awareness with these audiences and the marketing mix works well.”

Paul Williamson continues: “People like to get hands-on with CanarySquares.co.uk so having a huge plasma TV as part of our display enabled us to showcase the potential of the site to hundreds of visitors throughout the exhibition. We found it to be a very worthwhile and rewarding experience that has enabled us to further demonstrate the power of this innovative new marketing concept for businesses.”

In addition, Canary Squares had recent success at the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce B2B Autumn Event held at Norwich City Football Club. Over 80 organisations and individuals pledged to sign up on the spot, keeping the

Looking ahead to 2011, CanarySquares.co.uk has a number of projects in the R&D stage, which will give businesses and individuals the opportunity to heighten their links to this popular and thriving online community. www.canarysquares.co.uk

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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What you think you have may not be what you actually have...

As the only Chartered Financial Planners in Norwich, Smith & Pinching are well placed to help you with all your financial needs

Call us today for a no obligation consultation on 01603 789966 295 Aylsham Road, Norwich, NR3 2RY info@smith-pinching.co.uk www.smith-pinching.co.uk

Smith & Pinching is a trading name of Smith & Pinching Financial Services Ltd. Smith & Pinching are the only Chartered Financial Planners in Norwich at the time of printing. From this date others may follow our lead!

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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NORFOLK VOICE

Fit for business in 2011 Keep staff fit!

Corporate membership packages.

Perfect space and catering for...

• Meetings and training • Lunches and launches • Parties and corporate events

Pound Lane, Norwich NR7 0UB Tel: 01603 462462 www.oasisslc.co.uk

Formed in 1997, Genisoft Consulting Ltd has over 20 years experience in the Information Technology sector, and supplies consultancy services to clients throughout the local area. Consultancy ranges from bespoke software development to network planning and implementation.

The firm delivers a range of consultancy services to businesses, which are designed to be relevant and cost effective. The business has polite and skilled staff allowing clients to be certain that they are in capable hands at all times.

The company is owned and managed by Nick Chapman who has worked within the Computer industry for many years. Nick is well trained to look after your company, having previously worked for a broad range of blue chip and medium sized companies, he has a breadth of knowledge both business and IT related.

Services include n Bespoke Software Development n Smartphone Development n Business Process n Database Design/Development n VOIP Telephony n Website design and Hosting n And much more...

Genisoft Consulting Limited Henderson Business Centre, 51 Ivy Road, Norwich, Norfolk Tel: 0845 388 0916 email: info@genisoft.co.uk www.genisoft.co.uk

Carbon management & renewable energy Carbon management & renewable energy Carbon management & renewable energy Carbon management & renewable energy Carbon management & renewable energy

Clean Energy Consultancy Clean Energy Clean Energy Clean Consultancy Energy Consultancy Clean Consultancy Energy Consultancy

Confused by the multitude of renewable and greenbuild options?

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Confused by the multitude of renewable and greenbuild options?

Confused the multitude of renewable and greenbuild options?

Our independent advice and easy tobyunderstand approach is guaranteed to help you discover the results you want.

Confused by the multitude of renewable and greenbuild options?

Our independent advice and easy to understand approach is guaranteed to help you discover the results you want.

Our independent advice and easy to understand approach is guaranteed to help you discover the results you want.

Our independent advice and easy to understand approach is guaranteed to help you discover the results you want. call orapproach email to discuss your project Our independent advice and easy toPlease understand is guaranteed to help you discover the results you want.

Please call or email to discuss your project

Please call or email your project Clean Energy Consultancy Ltd,to P.Odiscuss Box 213, Norwich, NR18 8AT Please call or email to discuss your project t: 01953 798112 m. 07886 562483 e: info@cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk w: www.cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk Please call or email your project Clean Energy Consultancy Ltd,to P.Odiscuss Box 213, Norwich, NR18 8AT Clean Energy Ltd, P.O Box 213, Norwich, NR18 8AT t: 01953 798112 m. 07886 562483 e: Consultancy info@cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk w: www.cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk Clean Energy Consultancy Ltd, P.O Box 213, Norwich, NR18 8AT t: 01953 798112 m. 07886 562483 e: info@cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk w: www.cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk t: 01953 798112 m. 07886 562483 e: Consultancy info@cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk w: www.cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk Clean Energy Ltd, P.O Box 213, Norwich, NR18 8AT t: 01953 798112 m. 07886 562483 e: info@cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk w: www.cleanenergyconsultancy.co.uk THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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Deltic Training – the story so far: Founded 2006

Now: n Students worldwide in 14 countries

Just a few of the organisations from which students have enrolled since 2006:

Deltic Training confirms its distance-learning credentials by conquering the South Pole!

Abu Dhabi Department for Economic Development

n Award-winning tutors

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority

n Course delivery in UK and overseas

Al Hilal bank, UAE

n Award-winning students

Aviva PLC

n Recipient of award in recognition of exceptional student results, commitment to education, and outstanding academic achievement.

Belvoir Property Management Biogen Idec International BP Exploration Breakwater IT Bristol City Council

We offer fully accredited professional qualifications in strategic business management from the Institute of Administrative Management.

Open-access Level-3 to Level-5 Advanced Diploma.

Peter Lemon is seen pictured with the Deltic flag at its destination during an expedition which helped to raise over £18,000 for the Princes Trust in Norfolk.

Childrens Hospice Association Scotland DNS Arrow UK Ltd Glasgow Housing Association GM Procure Ltd Halliburton PLC IIR Middle East John Innes Centre Khoula Hospital, Oman Kuwait Oil Company Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust Lockheed Martin UK Marshall Aerospace

Top of the NSFL league! Deltic are very pleased to sponsor White Lightning FC, based at the University of East Anglia.

Nawras Telecommunications, Oman Nobles Hospital, Isle of Man Norwich City Council

Progression routes available to final year BA(Hons) and MBA.

Pictured above, Deltic student Nicky Foreman, receiving the Outstanding Student Award from Jenny Hewell, Chief Executive of the Institute of Administrative Management, at the recent 2010 IAM Graduation Ceremony.

Notre Dame High School Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust

Join us wherever you are and at any time on a distance learning basis, or contact us for details of the fixed venue Level-4 Diploma in Administrative Management, commencing in January 2011. Venues in Norwich, Great Yarmouth and Cromer.

Presidents Office, Kingdom of Bahrain Queen Mary University of London Renfrewshire Council Scottish Water Toyota East Africa, Nairobi University of Leeds

Time effective – cost effective – career effective.

West Suffolk College

Be part of the story.

I was impressed by the standard of the support given I must say that I really benefited from your course and experience…

...and many more!

I just got a payrise ….. in a big part due to undertaking training with Deltic!

Challenging, interesting and thought-provoking

Contact Deltic on 01263 734724, or visit www.deltic-training.co.uk NV02.indd 41

6/1/11 15:40:37

NORFOLK VOICE

Norfolk Copiers Ltd T 01603 861363 E sales@norfolkcopiers.co.uk www.norfolkcopiers.co.uk • Copy | print | fax | scan • Standalone and networked • New and refurbished • Mono and full colour • Lease, rental, purchase Free print audit – how much is desktop printing costing you?

Free quotations and demonstrations.

Norfolk Copiers Unit 4, Drayton Ind. Estate, Taverham Road, Drayton, Norwich NR8 6RL

Guidance for tenants ending their lease.

In the current economic climate businesses are looking to cut costs, and for those approaching the end of their lease or a break clause and considering relocating, there are some issues for the tenant to consider: 1. How much notice do I have to give?

S.27 Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 requires a minimum of three months notice before the last day of the tenancy, but if you are not in occupation on the last day of the tenancy there will be no liability to pay rent after that date in any event. In the event that the landlord serves a S.25 Notice under the Act to end the tenancy (minimum of 6 months notice), so long as you vacate before the last day of the fixed term the lease will end. The position changes if a tenant continues to occupy after the fixed term has passed, as notice must be given. If there is a break clause in the lease which allows you to end a lease before the end of the term, you must follow the termination provisions precisely.

2. What about repairs?

Your liability will depend upon the terms of your lease. Your lease may require internal repair only or external repair as well. It may limit the repair to the condition the property was in when the lease started, but some leases may require a tenant to put the premises in to a better condition.

Repair generally doesn’t include improvement but it can include renewal when for example the windows are beyond their service life and need replacement. However when considering repairs at the end of a lease (that generally does not include re-decoration or reinstatement of alterations) a landlord is only entitled to monetary damages capped under S.18 Landlord and Tenant Act 1927 as the amount by which the value of the landlord’s reversion has diminished. That is, simply put, the difference in value between the property in repair and disrepair. That may be less, in some cases much less, than the actual cost of repair. If the landlord has plans at the end of the lease to structurally alter the premises, redevelop or demolish them, then no damages may be payable. It is always worth taking advice rather than accepting what a landlord demands you pay. By way of an extreme

example the case of Business Environment Bow Land v Deanwater Estates Ltd 2008 makes interesting reading for both landlords and tenants. In that case the landlord demanded £557,483.97 for the cost of repair of premises which were subject to a lease, but sometime later, and after issuing court proceedings, agreed to accept just £1,073.50 from the tenant. The Judge regarded the landlord’s claim as inflated and reckless, and even though they secured judgement for the agreed amount, he proceeded to order the landlord pay all of the tenant’s legal costs.

3. What about the rates liability?.

You will most likely be paying the rates liability on the premises. That will end on the date your lease comes to an end. If you leave before the last date of the tenancy and the property is empty you will have no liability to pay rates for a maximum period of 3 or 6 months depending on the type of property.

If you are only occupying part of the premises you may be entitled to a discretionary relief to reduce the amount you would otherwise pay.

Adrian Newborough and Robert Pyke, (below) Partners in the Commercial Department at Fosters Solicitors William House 19 Bank Plain Norwich NR2 4FS. Adrian is the Head of the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Team and Robert the Head of the Commercial Property Team. Both have extensive experience of Commercial Landlord and Tenant matters acting for both Landlords and Tenants.

Visit www.fosters-solicitors.co.uk

Please note this article is prepared for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Fosters will be willing to advise you on your particular circumstances.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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TRAINING

Be the best you can be

– invest in yourself and your company.

We all make New Year’s resolutions – to take more exercise, eat healthier, or stop smoking. But if you are a manager looking to realise your potential and invest in your own future, as well as your business, here is something you should consider.

The Norfolk Chamber has created an exciting new Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management that will enable you to continue working, while developing your knowledge and skills. Designed by Teesside University and delivered by Matrix Training Consultancy Ltd, the programme is available for the first time in Norfolk, but it has already run very successfully elsewhere and won a number of awards.

You will achieve a nationally recognised qualification as a part time student, and on completion of the two-year course you have the option to do a BA Honours Degree. The course costs £6,000 and the majority of the sessions will be held at the John Innes Centre The programme has a local flavour, highlighting best practice across Norfolk and enabling you to work closely with other companies. You will benefit from accelerated learning, combining aspects of established theory with brain-based

MEET THE TEAM

approaches in small group activities, supported by guest and key note speakers.

In addition to students, we also need mentors, speakers and locations for workshops, which will be held throughout the course so you can experience real-life, on-site working situations. If you are interested in signing up for the course, or getting involved in any way, please contact Matrix Training on 01603 502240.

n Paul Taylor

n Margaret Wade

n Joe Mills-Brooker

n Charles Boulton

Management Essential The Norfolk Chamber also runs a Management Essentials course, delivered by Matrix Training.

These will be held at the Chamber offices on 9 February, 9 March and 31 March 2011. The programme covers a wide range of subjects to help you develop and improve your skills. The cost is £500, but you can use your Train to Gain entitlement if you haven’t already done so. For further details, contact Matrix Training on 01603 502240.

Skill Up – for all your training needs.

Too many managers view training as a luxury, rather than a competitive and strategic necessity. “What if we train our employees and they leave?” they ask.

Well, what if you don’t train them and they stay?

Training need not be expensive or last for days in order to be worthwhile. Workshops, classes and other short courses can be as invigorating as expensive courses and conferences.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce’s Skill Up Norfolk training website compiles most of the training opportunities within the Norfolk and East Anglia area, so you can find the training that is not only

beneficial for your company but affordable and cost effective. The site also offers information on the latest funding available – a real plus in this challenging economic climate.

Skill Up Norfolk is a one-stop-shop for all your training needs, whether you’re looking for: n training for your employees n funding opportunities for staff training n advice about which training could benefit your business The service is free to use, simply visit the website and start to find all your training information.

What makes Skill Up Norfolk different from other training portals is that there is a helpline available – a person at the end of a phone to help you find what you are looking for. Our Skill Up Norfolk Project Manager, Jason Williams, is on hand five days a week to help with: n General usage of the site n Finding specific training/provider information

n Jason Williams

n Becoming a registered training provider/user n Looking for funding information for training Go to skillupnorfolk.co.uk, or call Jason on 01603 729715.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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NORFOLK VOICE

Get out of the ‘boredroom’ for a day of fresh business thinking.

Inspirational Quotes.

The real leader has no need to lead – he is content to point the way.

Henry Miller

Win: full day meeting with refreshments for you and ten colleagues

Does your boardroom feel more like a boredroom? Need to get out of the office to inspire colleagues?

Holiday Inn Norwich is giving businesses in Norwich the chance to get out of the ‘bored-room’ for a day of fresh thinking with a full-day meeting for eleven delegates with the latest technology and uplifting refreshments within its meetings and events space, and all absolutely free.

Holiday Inn Norwich’s flexible and experienced team will take care of everything, from making your booking, throughout your event, to saying goodbye – ensuring that your meeting is a real success.

Whether you want to hook up with colleagues further afield with the hotel’s conference call facility, bring ideas to the big screen with a projector, or get interactive with flipcharts, Holiday Inn Norwich has the technology to suit any meeting style.

Holiday Inn Norwich’s meetings and event space means that delegates can take advantage of the dedicated break-out areas in between meetings – whether it’s to grab a coffee, network with colleagues or catch up on the latest business news.

Refreshments are integral to a productive meeting, and Holiday Inn Norwich really has thought of every little thing. From bacon rolls to kick-start the morning, tea and coffee and fresh fruit on tap, and a tasty lunch and themed breaks to keep the creative juices flowing throughout the afternoon – Holiday Inn Norwich will ensure delegates are fuelled with original and uplifting choices throughout the day.

For an additional boost, choose to have a warmup session in the hotel’s Spirit Health Club, and after hours relax and unwind with complimentary drinks at the bar.* Holiday Inn Norwich offers the Business Club loyalty scheme, which recognises the value of the people who book with Holiday Inn. Members get points for bookings made, earn high street vouchers, and get hotel rewards.

The hotel’s meetings and events space caters for up to 150 delegates and is committed to working smarter for a greener tomorrow.

Norwich International Airport is only six miles from Holiday Inn Norwich, where you can book its Park, Stay and Go package, which lets you leave your car for up to 15 days and includes taxi rides to and from the airport.

The only way of finding the limits of the possible is by going beyond them into the impossible.

Arthur C. Clarke

What do you think of the new Norfolk Voice?

We’ve worked really hard to ensure the new Norfolk Voice looks fantastic and is packed with interesting and relevant content. But we’d love to know what you think. We’ve put together some questions below and it would be great to have your feedback. We’ll make it worth your while – anyone who replies will be in with a chance of winning six bottles of delicious wine, courtesy of Broadland Wineries Ltd. Just email your comments to the questions to lucy.ohsten@norfolkchamber.co.uk by 28 Feb 2011.

We look forward to hearing from you. n Do you like the design and increased size of Norfolk Voice?

Contact Holiday Inn Norwich on 0871 9429060.

n Do you find the content interesting and relevant?

To win the prize, all you need to do is answer this question and send your answer to deangriss@btinternet.com by 25 Feb 2011.

n Is there anything you don’t like about Norfolk Voice?

Q: How many delegates can the meetings and events space hold?

n Are there any subjects/issues you would like to see covered in the magazine? n Any other comments?

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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TAKE A BREAK

Ridley Pinstripe.

Welcome to the diaries of Ridley Pinstripe, a go-getting young businessman who, at 33, has already risen to the position of Assistant Procurement Manager within manufacturing company Barking, Madd and Madd.

TUESDAY morning in the offices of Barking, Madd and Madd. Not one of our more buoyant days.

Too near the end of the week.

The atmosphere is usually somewhat funereal on a Tuesday due to the fact that it is another day at work but, on this occasion, it was particularly bad due to ... well, a funeral.

The person who died was our fax machine repair man, who was not, as previously suspected, missing somewhere near Workington, but was actually in the company Customer Relations Department, where no one had been for three months because we were waiting for a new Greensleeves tape.

After eating his way through the pile of Customer Complaints Forms, he died of starvation.

Before he died, he filled in one of the forms, complaining about his predicament. Not that anyone read it, of course. Had they done so, he might have been alive today.

Obviously, his demise caused much depression among the staff: the faxing was stacking up like nobody’s business.

All of which prompted management to launch their NEXT BIG THING, the latest phase in the Barking, Madd and Madd ‘Back To The Future’ strategy.

The document was due to be launched three months ago with a glossy brochure distributed to all staff. Unfortunately, a mix-up at the printers meant it had a large picture of a fox being chased by huntsman rather than Michael Fox but apart from that it looked OK. So, on Tuesday morning last week, in comes Lionel Toupe, the Head of Human Resources, Personnel Facilities and Anything Else That No One Else Wants To Do, struggling with a handful of brochures and announcing that an outside company had been hired to motivate the staff.

Attendance at the sessions was entirely voluntary and anyone who did not attend would have their reasons listened to carefully before being sacked.

The following day, the team from Happy Clappy Let’s All Smile Limited turned up. Now, as I may have pointed out before, I have risen to the

Sudoku Easy

position of Assistant Procurement Officer in the Stock Control Department. Basically, no one in this company uses a marker pen unless I sign the form. It’s stressful, but when the going gets tough the tough get going and in different colours.

Management had identified Stock Control as in particular need of motivation, presumably because of the constant pressure on high-flyers like myself. Anyway, the guy from Happy Clappy etc turned up, scrubbed and gleaming and dressed in a floral shirt, jeans and sneakers.

We trooped into the meeting room and he perched on the edge of the desk and switched his mobile onto vibrate.

Solution Issue 1

“That,” he said with a beam, “is because this time is your time. This is a peaceful glade in the centre of the dark forest.”

Apart from resembling a madman as he thrutched frantically during the phone’s constant vibration for the next two hours, he also seemed to have a real thing about forests.

During the session, we were asked to think all sorts of positive thoughts, how it felt to be a sapling poking forth into the light, a shrew emerging from its hole on the first day of spring and a tree swaying elegantly in a summer breeze.

It was not much use on the marker pen front but when that afternoon the old oak tree out the back of the offices keeled over in high winds and flattened the consultant’s new Jag at least we knew how it felt.

Terms and Conditions *Prize includes a full meetings day package for you and ten colleagues at Holiday Inn Norwich, Ipswich Road, NR4 6EP and includes: conference suite for eleven, projector, conference line, TV and video, bacon rolls on arrival, Danish pastries, lunch, tea and coffee throughout the day, drinks vouchers up to the value of £5 per person to be used in the hotel bar, fresh fruit, flip charts and stationery.

Entries should be submitted by email to deangriss@btinternet.com

Ridley

Prize valid until 15 April 2011 / booking subject to availability.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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Active Norfolk would like to invite your company to take part in Norfol k’s Fit4Work Corporate Games 2011, sponsored by Swiss Re.

The Games will take place on Friday 10th June at the UEA Sportspark in Norwich, 9am-6pm.

In 2010 over 40 teams took part and we want 2011 to be bigger and better!

The Games offers a unique opportunity for your staff and clients to join the action, get active and compete in sporting challenges against teams from other local businesses.

The event promises to be hugely enjoyable, as well as a serious opportunity for you to network and promote your business to potential customers.

From golf to tag rugby, netball to archery, there are activities to suit all abilitie s and give everyone a chance to shine. You just need bags of enthusiasm and a good team spirit to prove that your company is the very best in Norfolk!

An entry of the minimum of 5 people per team is required (maximum of 7 people) and you may enter as many teams as you wish. The cost to enter a team into the Games is only ÂŁ70, inclusive of all activities and equipment.

For more information and to register your team please visit

www.activenorfolk.org/corporate If you have any questions please contact us on

01603 732333 or email: info@activenorfolk.org

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NEW MEMBERS

New Members.

Broadlands Catering Ltd

Golf Days UK

Lafarge Readymix

01263 862206

01603 505533

01603 271747

Catering

Leisure & Tourism

Construction (General)

Privately owned company providing catering for clients either for conferences, corporate events, product launches or contracts, private functions such as weddings, family parties and gatherings.

At Golf Days UK, we organise and run golf events across Norfolk. We cater for corporate clients, society groups and individuals looking for more than just golf days.

We pride ourselves on meeting the needs of our customers. Whether it’s by using our Agilia™ range of self compacting concrete and screed, Extensia™ low shrink concrete, Chronolia™ early strength concrete or Artevia™ Decorative concrete.

Close Invoice Finance

The Iceni Guide

01273 321177

01603 816928

Invoice Finance

Advertising

Close Invoice Finance is part of Close Brothers Group, one of the City’s most enterprising and respected merchant banks and a FTSE top 250 listed company. We offer bespoke and award winning cashflow solutions to SMEs, unparalleled in the industry.

New monthly magazine for Norfolk that profiles the talents of local people with advertising and editorial. Wide range of features every month including fashion, beauty, events, news, art, reviews, and much much more!

Dingles Toyota 01953 458200 Car Services Dingles, a family run business, are proud to offer a comprehensive range of Toyota products and services. Whether you’re looking for a new or used car, the bodyshop or rental or would like to arrange a service.

Please visit www.dingles.toyota.co.uk

Drayton Old Lodge 01603 861600 Venues/Conference & Function Rooms/ Banqueting A professional business environment for networking, seminars and training events. A range of fully serviced and virtual offices to include reception and secretarial facilities. An ideal location for new or existing businesses.

Onsite restaurant and bar.

Lightning Group of Companies 023 8086 5890

01603 508066 Website Designers GML Consulting is the leading supplier of website and creative design services based in Norwich.

Our expertise enables us to enhance your brand and online presence and maxmise your business.

Lightning Group of Companies is one of the leading Electrical Instrumentation Installation Companies within the United Kingdom, offering Professional ISO-9001:2008 services throughout the United Kingdom.

Iceni Renewable Energy Ltd

Norfolk & Norwich Association For The Blind

01692 582888

01603 629558

Energy

Charities

Iceni Renewable Energy Ltd was formed in April 2010 as a special purpose vehicle (SPV) for the sole purpose of establishing, developing and obtaining planning permission of biomass renewable energy power stations and other renewable energy sectors.

A local blind charity helping 20,000 people in Norfolk with poor sight. Provides accommodation and care, community visiting service, educational and recreational activities.

No state funding, relies on legacies, donations and investments.

Out of Office Events

InTouch Systems

07734 216222

01603 425209

Events Management

Information Communication Technology (ICT) InTouch Systems is the region’s premier IT solutions provider. Based in Norwich for over 12 years, it provides for all size of commercial and not for profit organisations, offering comprehensive expertise in design, installation and support.

Total event company specialising in conferences, exhibitions, entertainment track.

Prior Diesel Ltd 01493 441383 Energy Prior Diesel Ltd has served the Oil, Gas, Marine, Power and Construction industries since 1981, and in that time we have become distributors for many leading engine, transmission, pump and equipment manufacturers.

Kettle Foods Ltd 01603 744788

GML Consulting Ltd

Electrical Installation

Food Processing Kettle Foods, producers of Kettle Chips, is based in Norwich and employs over 400 staff. Kettle Chips is the UK’s original and leading handcooked crisp brand and was last year the fastest growing top 10 bagged snack brand and voted on to the UK’s ‘Coolbrand’.

Reed Accountancy & Reed HR 01603 622392 Recruitment Reed is a specialist provider of permanent, contract, temporary and outsourced recruitment solutions and IT and HR consulting. Assisting jobseekers and employers since 1960. Reed has 400 offices worldwide, employs 4,000 people and delivers a world-class service.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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Are your finances in good health?

Hayhow & Co. is an experienced accountancy firm based in King’s Lynn, Norfolk

Accounting services Auditing Bookkeeping Business Support

Established in the early 1920’s, we offer a wide range of accountancy and advisory services tailored to your individual needs, and specialise in providing advice to small, medium-sized and fledgling companies and businesses.

At Hayhow & Co. we understand the pressures involved in running a business and our dedicated team are thus well-equipped to ensure

the process runs as smoothly as possible.

We endeavour to provide our clients with a first-class service - helping our business clients to achieve greater profitability, and our individual clients to enjoy greater wealth.

We have a wide portfolio of clients including some more specialist international companies, solicitors, estate agents, trusts and charities.

We offer a range of high quality accounting, financial and business services.

Corporate Finance Wealth Management Specialist services

Tel: 01553 764711

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19 King Street King’s Lynn Norfolk PE30 1HB

Email: info@hayhow.com

Web: www.hayhow.com

6/1/11 15:41:51

BUSINESS NEWS EXTRA

The sky’s the limit. £800 for men’s health.

It’s up, up and away for online business ipatter.com which welcomes the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) as the 1000th ‘Broadcaster’ to join its unique online community, bringing with it the opportunity to raise much-needed funds. ipatter.com, which launched in April 2010, is transforming the way that businesses, charities and individuals communicate with each other and their customers online.

Working in a more targeted way than Facebook and Twitter, the site enables people to network and promote themselves credibly on the internet and is attracting hoards of key local organisations such as the National Trust, the Mall Shopping Centre, the UEA Internship program, The Forum, Visit Norwich, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and Holkham Hall. ipatter.com will donate £5.00 for every referred business or organisation which signs up as a ‘Broadcaster’ and a further 50p for each individual that registers as a ‘member’.

Staff members at sister companies RPC Recycle, Comm-Tech and Juice Telecoms raised more than £800 for a prostate cancer charity by taking part in ‘Movember’, growing moustaches and leg hair respectively.

In just seven months since it launched, ipatter. com already has around 1,500 accounts registered as well as 35,000 valuable connections cemented between organisations or individuals.

For more information about the East Anglian Air Ambulance, visit its website at www.eaaa.org.uk.

For more information about the ipatter.com referral scheme, please contact: Belinda James, Marketing Manager on belinda.james@ipatter.com

Movember is a worldwide fundraising event that encourages men to nurture a moustache during November to help raise awareness of men’s health issues and raise sponsorship money that will go to The Prostate Cancer Charity to help with research for prevention and treatment.

Gavin Raines, marketing manager said: “The worst bit was the itchy phase, but what’s a little discomfort compared to what men suffering with prostate cancer have to go through? In the end I was quite proud of my handlebar moustache.

We are all really pleased to take part, show a little male solidarity and raise funds for men’s health.”

Call for delay in rules change. £5.4m boost.

The Norfolk economy benefited to the tune of £5.4 million when it hosted a stage of the Tour of Britain cycle race last year, according to a report.

Business adviser Grant Thornton, which has offices in Norwich, is urging the Accounting Standards Board (ASB) to delay new accountancy rules for private firms.

Norfolk County Council says that the income generated by the arrival of the UK’s biggest professional cycle race was a significant return on the authority’s £265,000 outlay to bring it to the area.

The company says the rules should be delayed by two years to help businesses keep costs down while the economy remains in a precarious position.

Anders Rasmussen, Partner at Grant Thornton Norwich said: “Postponing the Financial Reporting Standards for Medium Sized Entities until 2015 would defer the estimated £79 million cost of implementing the changes.

“The delay would also enable the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) to iron out any weaknesses in the new rules as they will be ‘road tested’ in other countries ahead of the UK.”

The county’s 117-mile stage of the race in September attracted record crowds and the report says that an estimated 130,000 spectators watched the race.

n Anders Rasmussen of Grant Thornton

The revised framework would also allow listed companies to adopt International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) with reduced disclosures for their subsidiaries, reducing costs – a move welcomed by Grant Thornton.

According to the council, the Tour provided a boost to the tourism industry and related trades, with 81% of the income generated by the event coming from out-of-county visitors. The event received a huge amount of local, national, and international coverage, showcasing Norfolk as a place to visit.

• Technical, Engineering & Construction • Commercial • Permanent • Industrial & Catering • Driving

Tel: (01603) 761717

12 All Saints Green, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 3NA Email: norwich@personnelpeople.co.uk

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

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NORFOLK VOICE

The last word.

Name Company Job title

BIOG :

Christine Frazer Aviva Property and Financial Services Director

Chris is the Director of Property and Financial Services, having taken up the role in October 2009. She has responsibility for the management of Aviva’s property and facilities portfolio in the UK, the management of money in an out of the organisation and for travel spend by employees.

Outside of work Chris’ main interests are sport, with three generations of the family being loyal and tolerant Norwich City fans.

What did you want to be when you were young?

What is the best thing about Norfolk?

A tennis player or an estate agent (I love looking at houses).

I love the big open skies best of all. I also love that fact that just ten minutes from the city centre you can be out in the countryside and it is less than an hour to get to gorgeous beaches.

What could you not live without?

Unfortunatly the answer these days is a mobile phone or Blackberry, but in general it would be my Friday night glass of wine.

If you could build a house anywhere in the world where would it be?

On the coast somewhere, just far enough from the sea to just spray the windows when the weather is really rough. I don’t think that is at all practical but I would love it.

What makes you angry?

If you only had a £1 left in the whole world what would you spend it on?

Chocolate.

What is in your opinion is the greatest invention ever?

The bicycle. I love it as a practical mode of transport that keeps you fit, and because it is pure fun as well as such an economical and environmentally friendly way to get about.

Rude people and bullies.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt in life?

If you could invite any two people to dinner who would they be and why?

To live for today and the future, and that on the whole people treat you how you treat them, so your experiences in life are pretty much your choice.

Michael Palin and Stephen Fry. Both favourites in our family, but for very different reasons.

If you could come back as an animal in your next life what would it be and why?: A cat, completly pampered but fiercely independent.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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“NatWest has helped my business go from one kitchen to four continents” Moez Karsan, Managing Director, European Oat Millers At NatWest, we’re committed to helping British business. That’s why we’ve supported European Oat Millers for over 20 years, expanding their small start-up to a multi-national business. With our loan, they acquired new premises, employed new staff and bought new machinery to help their growth.

We provide loans and overdrafts to over 3000 businesses every week.

To see how we can help you visit natwest.com/business or call 0800 073 2256.

Security may be required. Product fees may apply.

YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

Minicom 0800 404 6161. Calls may be recorded.

S36 11652 Kitchen 25x4 V8.indd 1

2/6/10 16:50:16 6/1/11 15:42:00

2

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PROOF 8

TA 250x168mm

OPEN is a unique venue, offering an extensive range of services and facilities in the heart of Norwich.

The stunning Grade II listed building, formerly the Barclays Bank Regional Headquarters, is one of the county’s largest full service venues, with a wealth of newly refurbished, contemporary conference and meeting space, including 5 conference and board rooms, a fully equipped nightclub, recording studio and media lab.

In addition, OPEN boasts the impressive Banking Hall - an exceptional venue, with fixed stage and state-of-the-art sound and lighting, private entrance, cloakrooms, large bar, green rooms and balcony viewing and seating.

The Banking Hall, which has a capacity of up to 1200 guests, is ideal for anything from concerts or dinner dances, to exhibitions, launches and private parties.

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www.opennorwich.org.uk

+44 (0) 1603 763 111

20 Bank Plain. Norwich. NR2 4SF

twitter.com/opennorwich

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