Norfolk Voice 16

voic e

norfolk Are you local?

Big Interview New centre promises vibrant times for green sector

Is there still funding for business out there?

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce The Ultimate Business Network

MAY JUNE 2013

NORFOLK VOICE

MIGRATION SOLUTIONS LTD

One man changed the world.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Sitting in the comfort of our arm chair, in our study, or reading this article online can only mean one thing … computers, in one way or another, have touched our lives.

You see, computers are central to everything we do today. This article was written on a computer, it was emailed to the publishers for editing, it was inserted into the Norfolk Voice using electronic publishing, it was printed via computer controlled printing methods and it was published online via a web site and the Internet. All of this may seem simple, but if it wasn’t for an event that happened 68 years ago, none of it would have been likely – if possible at all.

68 years ago on the 7th May 1945, the ‘German instrument of surrender’ was signed in Reims.

A day later it was ratified in Berlin effectively marking the end of World War II in Europe. The 8th May is commonly celebrated as VE day, (Victory in Europe). What, you may be asking, has this to do with an article in the Norfolk Voice.

The truth is that none of it would have been possible if it were not for one man.

Alan Turing is credited for his paper, on ‘computable numbers’, which contained the description of the ‘Universal Machine’ that is the theoretical basis for all modern computers.

During World War II he developed the concept of a storable programme whilst also working as a leading code breaker at Bletchley Park. It is only because of Turing’s remarkable work that the world of computers, (and the technology that they support), developed to what it is today.

Alan Turing died of a suspected suicide on the 8th June 1954.

Following the end of World War II, technology changed at a rapid rate. During the war, most people obtained their information by radio or by visiting the cinema to watch a newsreel. By the 1960’s most households had a television set, and by the 1980s many households had some sort of computer, (mainly used for games). By the 1990s computers became common in the workplace and the use of word processors and, to some degree, spreadsheets began to be business ‘must haves’.

By the early 2000s almost all homes had a computer and were connected to the Internet in some form or another. The verb to ‘google’ was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2006. Today, many of us wouldn’t even dream of visiting a library, we would just ‘google’ it.

And, of course, we should not forget that in business, every business is using computer technology in some way. It may be for running the accounts, or a website advertising the business, it may be for providing an online

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

service, or just filing a VAT return with HMRC. We communicate more by email than by any other method – in 2012 an estimated 144 billion emails were sent every day!

In 2012 there were 634 million websites that were visited by 2.4 billion web users. 1.3 billion of us were using smartphones to read email and surf web pages. 4 billion hours of video were watched on YouTube every month in 2012 and 1.2 trillion searches were made on Google.

In May 1945, a single individual with an exceptional mathematical talent had used a single computer to crack German messages and begin to bring the dreadful war to an end.

In 2013, nothing we do in modern life can be done without a computer being involved in some way. And the foundation that supports all of the technology we rely on is a data centre. At MigSolv, we understand the technology, and we run one of the most advanced and secure data centres … anywhere.

MigSolv 0845 251 2255 or AskUs@MigSolv.com

CONTENTS

Contents.

03

Welcome/Contents

04

Chamber News

05

Members News

07

Knowledge

08

Chamber News

09

Members News

12 13 15

International Trade

16 17

The Big Interview

18 19

Members News

24 25

Members News

In this issue of Norfolk Voice we have two main features which look at ways to find new business – always a vital issue during challenging times. In our Hidden Gems feature we profile some of our larger business members within the region and identify why they value working with local suppliers, which is so vital for the health of Norfolk’s economy.

26 27

Cover Feature

28 29

Funding

In the run up to our Sustainability 2013 event we also look at funding opportunities for low carbon solutions and we profile examples of businesses that have successfully accessed funding. We would encourage all members to review which of the funding opportunities could assist their business.

Our Big Inteview features Dr John French, CEO of the Adapt Low Carbon Group, based at the University of East Anglia. John initially created the original concept for the InCrops Project and, in 2008 after gaining funding from EEDA and ERDF, the project became live and the InCrops Enterprise Hub was born. With a team of nine specialist staff, the aim of the Enterprise Hub is to promote innovation in alternative non-food crops across the East of England.

The year-on-year comparison statistics for our community website are very exciting and show that our members are really getting behind it and are benefiting from our social media activity. The Chamber is also benefiting through increased footfall at events and a significant increase in members. We tell our story on page 39.

As part of our Unlocking the Potential of Norfolk’s Young People theme for 2013 we have launched the Chamber Apprentice Broker Service. More details can be found on page 8.

5

Chamber Policy

34

Members News

38 39

Chamber News

40 42

Chamber News

9

43

Chamber Events

45

Take a Break

47

New Members

49

A Week in The Life Of

50

The Last Word

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

16 PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, 6th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2384 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING Helen Longley, Business Development Manager, Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 887 3812 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.

We hope you enjoy this issue of Norfolk Voice.

CHAMBER’S GOLD PATRONS

Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MAY/JUNE 2013

PAGE3

NORFOLK VOICE

CHAMBER NEWS

Think local.

Norse is new Norfolk Chamber Patron.

DAVINA TANNER President of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

I hope that by the time Norfolk Voice reaches you, we are all enjoying warm spring weather and getting out and about a bit more.

In this issue of the magazine you’ll read about the importance of buying from suppliers who are closer to home. I’d like to take a wider look at the whole area of doing right by your local community.

Corporate responsibility (CR) is something that all businesses, whatever their size, should be thinking about. We may believe that our business operates in isolation but that’s seldom the case. We all rely on the patronage, support and goodwill of our communities and so have a responsibility to give something back when we can.

It’s obvious that a business such as Chapelfield should contribute to the community of Norfolk and Norwich. Our shoppers, tenants and staff are hugely important to us so we invest time, energy and money in a wide variety of projects that are important to them and their families. From initiatives that reduce crime in Norfolk to health awareness campaigns: from schemes that provide training opportunities for young people to working with local charities.

But every business can make a contribution to its local community; it is the will to do so that makes the difference. From nominating a staff charity of the year as a fundraising focus, to giving staff time off to volunteer – CSR has no boundaries or rules.

It’s all about deciding what matters to your business, your staff and the communities that you operate within. Businesses that demonstrate a commitment to CSR often find that their teams are well-motivated and engaged: they feel proud to be part of an organisation that is not just about profit and cares about its local area.

So, as we get ready for summer, why not think about how your team can get out in to your local community?

Davina Tanner

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Chris Perry of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, left, and Geoff Tucker Sales Director of Norse

We are delighted to announce that Norse has become a Patron of the Norfolk Chamber. One of the UK’s most dynamic and fast-growing facilities management services providers, Norse has the financial strength so vital in times of economic pressure.

With a strong balance sheet, industry-leading business retention and staff turnover, and 96% customer satisfaction, Norse delivers first-class services that its customers value and trust.

Geoff Tucker, Sales Director of Norse, said: “As a major contractor of local businesses, and an employer of a wide range of staff skills, Norse is fully committed to supporting the local economy. As part of this support, in the past the company has regularly sponsored and taken part in events and publicity organised by the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.

“We firmly believe that by becoming a Patron of the Norfolk Chamber, Norse will be in an even better position to help encourage and facilitate use of the Chamber’s valuable services to enterprises across the county. We are looking forward to playing an increasingly active role with the Chamber in working with Norfolk’s business community.”

Nor se

MEMBERS NEWS

Launch of new Emergency Services academy.

Police and fire officers are supporting a new college academy which has been launched to give students a real insight into the “blue light” emergency services.

It is being run by the College of West Anglia in King’s Lynn, adding to the uniformed and public service course it already runs for the Army, Navy and RAF. PC Sarah Chandler, Police beat manager for Gaywood, Fairstead and Reffley, said: “We are really pleased to hear of the opening of the Emergency Services Academy in King’s Lynn.

“It will provide a fantastic opportunity for the young people in our area to get more involved with the work of our emergency services and to gain an insight into our roles.”

From the fire service, Steve Gerrard, Green Watch manager, said the creation of the academy would help students learn what happened on a daily basis and to shape their career decision making. While there are no full-time vacancies at present, there are opportunities to join the service’s retained crews in different parts of the community.

The launch turned out to be an exciting morning for two students, Sam Oakes and Jessica Brown, who have already reached Level 3 on the uniformed services course as both the fire service and Police arranged activities especially for their benefit.

Joining forces for the new academy launch are, back row, from left, Police Community Support Officer Rebecca Messenger, Emergency Services Academy course director Pat Kavanagh, Police beat manager Sarah Chandler, and Carl Smith and watch manager Steve Gerrard from Norfolk Fire Service. Front row: student Sam Oakes, Stuart Shinn, from the fire service, and student Jessica Brown.

Kavanagh, who spent 24 years in the police force in stations across Norfolk, as well as eight years in the RAF Police.

They were given the chance to use hoses, see a rescue demonstration from a smoking building and even use a Police “stinger” which is thrown across the road to puncture the tyres of some speeding vehicles who fail to stop.

Jessica, who aims to study law or sport at university and Sam, who wants to get to Sandhurst to do Army officer training to get into the parachute regiment, praised the college course they were completing, saying it was giving them a real and valuable insight into uniformed services and thought the new Emergency Services Academy would offer similar benefits.

Heading the Emergency Services Academy, which starts in September, is course director Pat

The academy’s new two-year course will see students, who must be over 16 years of age, earn a diploma in Public Services and sufficient UCAS points to gain a university place, such as at Anglia Ruskin in Cambridge, the college’s partner.

To enrol, students must have five GCSEs at Grade C or above, including Maths, English and a Science.

Application details can be gained from the college website at: www.cwa.ac.uk

Snow brings business benefits for ESE. Whilst most people dread the sight of snow on the ground, one business from Norwich has reaped the benefits from an extended winter.

ESE Direct, a thriving industrial supplies company, based on Northumberland Street in the city, has seen record sales of some of their winter maintenance products compared to winter last year.

Bags of rock salt saw an 109% increase in sales, whilst purchases of salt spreaders have gone up

by over 1000%. Other big sellers include grit bins and snow ploughs.

Simon Francis who heads up ESE Direct said: “Sales in general are up on last year but due to the unpredictable winter weather we experienced, sales of some of our winter products soared. We have a very wide range of high quality products for bad weather, and our customer services team work hard to get every order delivered as quickly as possible.”

The company sells a vast range of products from workshop and storage equipment to winter products and first aid kits. Sales from their e-commerce site www.esedirect.co.uk and mail order catalogue make up 80% of their sales.

They are enjoying a buoyant start to 2013, with sales for January and February up 26% on the same time in 2012.

MAY/JUNE 2013

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Corporate Games 2013 Active Norfolk would like to invite your company to take part in Norfolk’s Fit4Work Corporate Games 2013, sponsored by Admin Re.

The Games will take place on Friday 14th June at the UEA Sportspark in Norwich, 9am-6pm.

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 archery to golf, sitting volleyball to wheelchair basketball, there are activities to suit all abilities 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 £50, 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

Newman & Co

Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors Real Time Information (RTI) – The biggest change to PAYE in 70 years!

Many employers will have recently received a letter from HMRC informing them of their mandatory enrolment in RTI, the new monthly reporting regime for those operating a payroll scheme. For some, this may represent a significant additional administrative burden, especially for those still preparing manual payroll records. If you are already using recognised payroll reporting software, you should have received an update in time for the change to RTI in April this year. However, whatever your situation, it is advisable to review you current payroll solution and consider whether external assistance is required either in an advisory capacity or to prepare your payroll for you and ensure RTI compliance.

HMRC Targets Second Home Owners HMRC have launched the Property Sales Campaign that encourages taxpayers that have sold a second property but have not declared the capital gains tax to volunteer this information to HMRC by 9th August 2013. This can be done by email, mail or telephone. An arrangement to pay the outstanding tax must then be made by 6th September 2013. After that date, HMRC will begin contacting taxpayers that they consider may have undeclared capital gains tax on the sale of their second properties and levy the tax, interest and penalties due. Penalties that arise for not declaring the tax due within the normal time limits will be reduced if taxpayers take advantage of HMRC’s campaign.

Wayne Goddard FCCA (Director of Newman & Co. Chartered Accountants)

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Newman & Co Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors

Newman & Co Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors have been serving local businesses and individuals in East Anglia for over 20 years.

We offer a range of services tailored to suit our clients’ individual needs that include: Tax Returns, Advice and Planning Preparation of Annual Accounts l Bookkeeping services and Management Accounts Preparation l Payroll Services including Real-Time Processing l VAT Returns and Advice l

l

We provide an efficient, friendly and competent service through our professionally qualified staff and believe that there is real value in developing long-standing professional relationships with our clients.

Please contact us to arrange a free initial consultation.

4b, Church Street, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4DD T: 01379 640640 E: diss@newmans-online.co.uk W: www.newmans-online.co.uk

KNOWLEDGE

Without a brand, you are a commodity.

“A commodity has full or partial fungibility; that is, the market treats its instances as equivalent or nearly so with no regard to who produced them”.

James Thomas, from Square Social To begin, let’s define what a brand is. A brand constitutes anything you can see, hear, or feel. Let’s use Coke as an example. Interbrand estimated Coke had a brand equity value of $78 billion in 2012. What does this mean in layman’s terms? Basically, anything Coke touch will turn to gold.

What Isn’t Branding Having a generic out of the box website isn’t branding. No matter what product or service you sell, all of your competitors probably have a web presence in some form. If they don’t, well as the quote goes: “If the external changes in your industry are moving quicker than the internal ones within your business, then the end is near”.

There exists a fallacy that branding, social media, or content marketing won’t work for some because they are in a boring industry, or because ‘everybody does it that way’, or because ‘it just won’t work’.

Your business or industry is as boring as you make it. If you can’t even get excited about your product or service, how can you expect your customers and prospects to?

Creating a Facebook page is not branding. Simply setting up a Facebook profile does not mean your social is sorted. Creating one proves nothing. To create a social profile and invest no time in it says to potential customers that you are a commodity.

If you are a commodity, then you’ll be familiar with this line – “What’s the best price you can do?”

The best thing about having a strong brand is you aren’t selling on price. If your low prices are the only value you can bring to the table, then you’re in trouble. What happens when one of your competitors builds a strong brand, sells the same service you do and still manages to charge double your fee? (Ahem, Salesforce.com).

Posting a blog article is not branding. Blogs have been around for years. Posting a blog article telling the world that you’ve just won ‘Generic Award of the Year’ doesn’t deliver any value to your customers, and it doesn’t differentiate you from your competitors.

How To Build A Brand

If You Stand Out, You Aren’t a Commodity

A lengthy mission statement isn’t branding, or a brand value. A brand value is tangible. Take Virgin for example, a brand built on doing things differently and superb customer service.

Remember the definition of a commodity? “The market treats its instances as equivalent or nearly so with no regard to who produced them”.

Building a brand is simple. There will be consultants out there who will argue otherwise.

However, as Einstein famously quoted: “If you can’t explain it simply, it probably means you don’t understand it well enough”.

If your competitor’s brand is built on low prices, why not build yours around a premium service.

The two rarely go hand in hand. If the market treats commodity instances as if they are nearly identical, then it’s logical to assume that this will help nudge you out of the commodity zone and into the profitable business zone. n Go the Knowledge Section on the Chamber website for more articles relating to IT & E-commerce, Procurement, Health & Safety, Networking and Start-up advice.

BRANDING TIPS Some tips to start building your brand: n Figure out what it is that you stand for.

Focus on tangible values. n Apply these values to all your customer touch points. n Emulate your industry leaders

MAY/JUNE 2013

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CHAMBER NEWS

Buying and selling with a buzz!.

In an exciting new way to do business, the Meet the Buyer Dinner, on 28 February, brought together key buyers and Great Yarmouth suppliers.

This relaxed setting was a great success with buyers and suppliers, who embraced this different approach.

The event, delivered by Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with enterpriseGY, is part of a drive to stimulate business in the area, and provided an exclusive opportunity for businesses based in Great Yarmouth to meet with buyers in a relaxed and informal environment.

The buyers enjoyed this way of making connections; Dirk Doornbos, Seajacks UK Ltd, said: “A relaxed and friendly opportunity to meet potential suppliers.”

Jill Hardy, Eastport UK, commented: “An event extremely conducive to networking with a good range of suppliers.”

The suppliers’ feedback was very positive: Kim Dexter, Dexters Great Yarmouth Ltd, said: “Excellent company, it was like having dinner with friends.”

Charlotte French, Eriks UK, commented: “A great Meet the Buyer with some brilliant new contacts made.”

By Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

The buyers attended represented a variety of business and industry sectors, including offshore with Seajacks, EastPort UK, Fendercare Marine and RS Occupational Health present; education with the UEA, Great Yarmouth College and Ormiston Venture Academy and a variety of other buyers looking for innovative local opportunities such as Blue Sky Leisure, Norfolk County Council and Pasta Foods.

Ian McCreadie, Chair of enterprise GY, said: “The opportunity for Great Yarmouth suppliers to meet with key buyers whilst pitching for business in a speed dating style event has proved to be immensely successful. One of enterpriseGY’s key aims is to stimulate business growth in the area and tonight has done just that.”

Caroline Williams, CEO of Norfolk Chamber, commented: “Meet the buyer events like this are hugely successful because they provide a rare opportunity for buyers and suppliers to make vital connections, in one place. The evening had a real buzz about it and many of those who attended reported that some very positive connections were made. This is fantastic news for Great Yarmouth and we are delighted to be working with enterpriseGY to help boost business in this area.”

New Apprenticeships Service from the Chamber.

The Norfolk Chamber has secured funding from the Skills Funding Agency to set up a Chamber Apprenticeship Broker Service to help local businesses employ 40 apprentices aged between 16 -18, by the end of October 2013.

There are a number of different apprenticeship schemes now operating in Norfolk. The role of the Chamber will be to lend a helping hand to businesses to help them identify the most appropriate scheme and providers to meet their needs and get more young people into jobs.

Chamber CEO, Caroline Williams, commented: “We are passionate about helping provide

Building Team Chamber.

links between Norfolk’s young people and the business community and this is one way we feel that we can really help.

“This contract with the Skills Funding Agency will provide us with additional means and impetus to work closely with our members to enable our young people to be employed as soon as possible and for them to provide the much needed resource to our businesses using the excellent training providers we have in Norfolk.”

If you’re interested in taking on an apprentice, please contact Chris Perry at the Chamber on 01603 729707.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

What can affect me more than anything is my staff. I know I should not be so affected but right now I am really pleased that I am. I have a really great bunch of people working for me; they are motivated, loyal and think customer first. Just what is needed for a service-based business like Norfolk Chamber. Our budget forecast for the year which ended March 2013 was challenging and our financial results were significantly better than budget and the positive feedback we have been getting from our members has been truly humbling.

Building a team can be the best and worst for any manager. Great if you get it right, truly horrible if you don’t. Although as a good leader you do empower your staff, how you handle situations can have a major impact on the performance of your team and affect your bottom line. Like many managers I have had to learn, and to be honest I am still learning how not be a controller and give my team space. As I have a relatively new team, this does take a lot of willpower, but the results are always worth it. Not everything goes to plan, but the job satisfaction and the development of an individual when they are given responsibility within a safe environment is truly magical.

So why am I writing about this now? Partly it is because I am just so proud of my team and what they achieved last year, but also due to the experience we have just gone through recruiting 3 three new members of staff. This was due to one leaver and two new additional posts. A regular conversation I have with our larger members is their desire to be an’ employer of choice’ and how they can best can achieve this.

As we all have experienced, finding new people with the right skills and who we feel will complement our teams is no easy matter.

I had not thought of Norfolk Chamber as being an employer of choice, but all three successful candidates who joined our events and membership teams, Hannah, Jessica and Paul, all indentified to the agencies we used that they wanted to be put forward for the positions due to the Chamber’s increasing reputation for helping Norfolk businesses reach their potential.

Heading up a business right now is tough and sometimes it is hard to stay motivated when the buck stops with you. What I have learnt over the past year in particular is that by getting the right people into the right position within the team, believing in their capability and listening to how best I can support them the results can be truly magic.

MEMBERS NEWS

BDO and PKF merger completes.

A taste for the stars.

by David Lloyd, Creative Director of Naked Marketing

It was roughly 27 years ago when I watched my first Star Wars film. This day was to shape my life in becoming a fully fledged Star Wars fanatic.

Marilyn Martin

Accountancy and business advisory firm, BDO LLP, has announced that its merger with PKF (UK) LLP is complete.

The firm will now operate as one, under the BDO brand and as part of BDO’s international network, the largest global accountancy organisation aimed at the mid-market, with revenues of over $6bn operating in 138 countries worldwide.

The firm has also announced its senior management team, including the partner responsible for Norwich and the 140 people working for clients across East Anglia via its former three PKF offices. Marilyn Martin will be heading up the Norwich, Ipswich, Great Yarmouth offices from completion, leading business growth across East Anglia.

Marilyn Martin, Lead Partner for BDO LLP in Norwich, said: “The announcement demonstrates both firms’ ongoing commitment to East Anglia and local businesses in Norwich. The merger will greatly benefit the region’s professional community. It will provide broader and deeper expertise and international reach for many clients on a local basis, but will also allow staff to gain broader experience from working in an enlarged firm. My focus from today is on ensuring a smooth integration of the two firms and continuing delivery of exceptional service to all clients.”

Simon Michaels, Managing Partner of BDO LLP, said: “It’s time for people to think again about BDO. The merger has transformed our market presence overnight. Senior leadership is a critical factor in making the merger a success, but I know this team is the right mix to build on our ambitions still further and respond quickly to the domestic and international environment. We also remain focused on delivering exceptional service to our clients and creating the right environment for our people to develop and grow.”

Since that day I have watched these films hundreds of times – and as a child spent every spare penny of my pocket money on Star Wars merchandise. So imagine my overwhelming delight when a design brief came through that would entail getting to work with this iconic brand. It is not every day that you are approached to produce packaging design for Lightsabers.

After initial draft designs we were then supplied with just about every Star Wars image, still and graphic, supplied in a big box and the sender was Lucas Films. With all this imagery the designs came together with ease and then it was off to the London licensors for final approval. This was to be another surreal moment as I sat alongside a full scale model of Yoda whilst critiquing the final designs.

The pack we designed features both Yoda and Darth Vader on the outer and the sleeves for

the Lightsabers themselves have been designed to mimic the style of Yoda and Darth Vader’s Lightsaber (I told you I was a fanatic). We have worked on some huge brands but for me personally this one has to be up there as I am a self proclaimed Star Wars geek!

These packs include both strawberry and lemon & lime ice lollies and can now be found in most supermarkets including Sainsburys. Naked Marketing would like to say a massive thank you to Icefresh Foods, not just for the amazing opportunity but for making a geeky Creative Director very, very happy. We have enjoyed working in partnership with Icefresh Foods on some amazing brands and were delighted to be runners up in the Hello Kitty design at awards in 2012.

Norfolk firm secures chinese government contract.

A Norfolk firm-Right Angle Events Limited, based in Taverham, Norfolk, have secured a contract with the Chinese Government. During the Summer Holidays, the company will entertain over 1500 Chinese students aged between 12-18 years of age.

Each student will experience a 3 Hour Crime Scene Investigation Master Class and Investigation. In addition, they will learn how the largely unarmed British Police Service operate.

Steve Gaskin, Director of Education, for Right Angle Events said ”This is a huge opportunity for our firm. This has been a carefully negotiated process over the past 5 months. We are delighted we have the opportunity to exchange cultural ideas with our Chinese clients and give

them a first class insight into our award winning products.”

All of the equipment, consumables and personnel will come from Norfolk.

THANK YOU We would like to thank all the students from Sewell Park School who participated in the MP’s event on 8 February and were featured in the photographs in the post-event write up in the MAR/APR issue of Norfolk Voice.

FEBRUARY/MARCH MAY/JUNE 2013

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PAGE TITLEVOICE NORFOLK

£2.8 MILLION

CAPITAL AND REVENUE FUNDING AVAILABLE TO SMALL BUSINESSES LOW CARBON KEEP PROGRAMME What is the Low Carbon KEEP Programme?

The Low Carbon KEEP Programme is a European and UK Government funded scheme designed to enable small to medium size businesses to work in partnership with UK universities and colleges.

What can Low Carbon KEEP do for my company?

The Low Carbon KEEP scheme provides SMEs with the funding, resources and expertise needed to help them innovate, expand or improve their low carbon performance. Funding is available now until December 2014.

How does the programme work?

The company and the university recruit a graduate with relevant experience to work full time in the company on a specific project with agreed timescales. The graduate is supported by a specialist academic from the university who is committed to at least half a day per week at the company to direct the project.

What could a typical project look like?

A typical Low Carbon KEEP project could address resource efficiency within a business, development of new products or services, innovation in process or attainment of accreditation.

However, the scope for potential projects is huge so if you have a great idea, get in touch!

For more information visit us today at: www.anglia.ac.uk/lowcarbon Contact us: lowcarbon@anglia.ac.uk | carole.randall@anglia.ac.uk | Tel. 0845 196 4310/5818 |

Edmundson Electrical Norwich Ltd has been trading for 35 years and is your local and largest stock holding wholesaler with a well established national reputation in its marketplace. Recently re-located to new premises which have a 29’500 sq ft warehouse, including sales office, trade counter, conference facilities and on site electrical vehicle charger. We are committed to satisfy the demands of our customers with innovative products to keep up with the ever changing technology within the industry to include renewable, PV and LED lighting.

@LowCarbonKEEP

n Trade Counter service for collections from 7am-6pm 5 days a week n Free same day delivery service available throughout Norfolk on all

orders placed before 9.30am n Dedicated and experienced staff catering for all your electrical

requirements n Only offer high quality yet cost effective branded products from

world leading manufacturers

www.edmundson-electrical.co.uk Unit C The Frenbury Estate, Hellesdon Park Road, Norwich NR6 5DP • Tel: 01603 405 123 • Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-6pm Sat-Sun Closed

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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We speak your language

info@linguamax.co.uk www.linguamax.co.uk

Peter Hawes

Building a strong base of interdependent local business is core to stimulating economic vitality in the county, and needs to be one of the shared priorities of larger and smaller local enterprises alike.

It therefore makes sense that larger, established businesses should be encouraged to share their wealth of experience and expertise with the small business community in order to facilitate responsible, sustainable and mutually-beneficial growth, with market and supply guarantees on both sides.

By recycling an appropriate share of their revenue back into the local economy these big corporate wealth creators will be enriching the whole community.

Within Norfolk there are a number of such organisations which are firmly rooted in the county. They have an economic self-interest in helping ensure that the commercial communities in which they are based are successful, vibrant and in sound financial health.

In sourcing services and goods locally, larger organisations will be cutting down their carbon miles, helping to build stability for the local employment market (with the attendant benefits to everyone of increased consumer spending confidence) and ensuring good community engagement – all examples of corporate best practice and social responsibility.

In sourcing locally the bigger organisations should actively encourage their suppliers to develop the skills and careers of their workforce. However, they should also directly support career opportunities for future entrants to the local skills pool, via schemes such as apprenticeships and work placements.

In short, by working together the larger and smaller organisations should develop a symbiotic environment that encourages and facilitates mutual growth and prosperity.

Peter Hawes Managing Director Norse Commercial Services

MAY/JUNE 2013

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NORFOLK VOICE

Can growth in Norfolk be unlocked through delivery of infrastructure?.

Heathrow debate in Norfolk.

the development industry. Most of the utilities planned their capital expenditure programmes for a 5 or 8 year period and did not take into account speculative development. This is clearly a problem when developers are often keen to try and bring forward development quicker than this timeframe, especially when the utilities only consider development as not being speculative if it has planning permission.

At a recent meeting of the Chamber’s Planning & Development Group, a debate was held with the Highways Agency, Norfolk County Council, Norwich International Airport and various utility companies, including BT, Anglia Water and UK Power Networks on how to unlock growth through infrastructure delivery.

The debate highlighted that whilst there was a certain amount of cooperation between each of the utilities and the public agencies, there was little or no discussion with landowners and

The meeting discussed potential ways of working around these problems, including the opportunity for new types of funding and income streams to come into the market. It was clear that it is essential for developers to talk to the utilities at the earliest stage possible. The Chamber Planning & Development Group agreed to continue their liaison with the utilities and would advise the teams of any constraints that they were made aware of that stopped growth from coming forward.

All parties agreed to work together to lobby Government in respect of rail, road and general infrastructure improvements.

West Norfolk businesses have their say.

The New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership (NALEP) recently consulted members of the West Norfolk Chamber Council on the pre-consultation draft of their Plan for Growth.

One of the most congested rail routes from Norfolk to London is the King’s Lynn to Kings Cross line and they would like to see equal emphasis placed on this route, as well as the Norwich to London Liverpool Street line.

This is an important topic for local businesses and the Norfolk Chamber, British Chambers of Commerce and Heathrow Airport are holding a ‘One Hub or None’ Seminar on 7 June in Norwich, to learn the views of local Norfolk businesses and their response to the ongoing capacity debate. Delegates will be able to discuss the issues identified in new research from Frontier Economics and question Heathrow Airport executives directly.

A summary of the key findings is that the lack of capacity at Heathrow is already costing the UK up to £14bn a year in lost trade and this figure could rise to £26bn by 2030. The UK Department of Transport forecasts that by 2020 there will be 11 million of un-served passenger demand at Heathrow, rising to 28 million by 2030.

Having reviewed the Plan, the West Norfolk Chamber Council highlighted the following areas that they would like to see the NALEP consider within their Plan for Growth:Improvements to the A47 are seen as vital by West Norfolk businesses to assist economic growth. However they voiced their concern that any improvements would put further constraints on the existing bottleneck routes around King’s Lynn. They asked for these concerns to be taken into consideration when planning the improvements to the A47. One suggestion was for an additional river crossing to ease congestion around King’s Lynn.

With the continued prolific media coverage about the proposed plans for expansion at London Heathrow, the Norfolk Chamber are keen to ensure Norfolk businesses have their say, and are bringing the debate to Norwich.

Heathrow feels that passengers who cannot be accommodated at the London hub will be lost to overseas hubs such as Dubai and Istanbul who operate a similar model for long-haul routes and transfer traffic and not pass through other British airports.

Tourism for West Norfolk depends on good roads and good communications, however improving these aspects may have a detrimental effect on the very thing that attracts the tourists.

The West Norfolk Chamber Council sought reassurances from the NALEP that the character of the region would not be lost due to growth, whilst benefitting from improved roads and communication links.

The NALEP advised that they would take the above comments into consideration when revising their Growth Plan, which will go out for wider consultation at the beginning of April.

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Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce said: “Ensuring the right air travel solutions to meet the varying needs of Norfolk businesses are available is an important topic.

We have facilitated key Heathrow Airport Executives coming to Norfolk to hear the views of our businesses as international trade is very important to our local economy. We expect a large number of businesses to attend to ensure that their opinions are taken into account.”

All businesses members and non members are invited to take part in this discussion please email events@norfolkchamber.co.uk for an invitation

CHAMBER POLICY

Chamber has first say on Growth Plan.

The New Anglia LEP (NALEP) has recently carried out an initial consultation on the first draft of their ‘Funding for Growth Plan’ and members of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Board, Area Councils and Special Interest Groups had the opportunity to provide their feedback.

Below are just a few of the comments from them: Ian Hacon – Chief Executive, Blue Sky Leisure, Great Yarmouth “Funding for business growth is my number one, both for start-ups or expansion. Then I think it’s infrastructure and planning – road/ rail/broadband etc. I would have said red tape etc as another, but that’s more a central government issue.”

Trevor Ivory – Partner, Howes Percival, Norwich “In my view the focus should be on creating the right conditions for growth. For me the LEP is best placed to do this by delivering (or more accurately getting others to deliver) the improvements in infrastructure that are needed.

That includes the big ticket items like the strategic road network and better mainline rail links, but equally important is the improvement of local infrastructure such as broadband.”

Russell Leggett – Partner, Lovewell Blake, Great Yarmouth “Many people are saying “Funding for Growth” but I am struggling with what that specifically means. Funding from Government can only create the right conditions which encourage growth. This, in my opinion, is mostly infrastructure and image.

“In Great Yarmouth we need land to enable construction of a new “Energy Park” in the South Denes area. There will clearly be a cost of purchasing such land and re-accommodating the current owners or tenants. Funding to assist Great Yarmouth Borough Council to do this would be great. Improved marketing of Norfolk and Suffolk with particular emphasis on Great Yarmouth would benefit both counties. The sleepy image of the counties and the less than positive image of the town must be overcome to entice better businesses here.”

Mark Reavall – Executive Director, College of West Anglia, West Norfolk “The view from an education and training aspect and specifically from the College of West Anglia would be about potential future gaps. The first is that of the place of Higher Education and the development of higher level skills on this side of Norfolk. We are historically in an area of low HE take up and a HE centre would be of major importance on the potential for us to deliver increased higher level skills training. Whilst we have limited provision in King’s Lynn, it has not grown over the last five years and employers are looking for more staff with higher skills and for higher skills training.

“Secondly is the growing need for specialist training in areas covering sustainable technology and renewable energy. Both areas have increasing interest from employers, but we currently have no facilities to help in these

subjects in this area. Developing these facilities in conjunction with the LEP would help solve a problem for many employers.”

As noted by nearly all of the Chamber member replies, economic growth and improved infrastructure featured heavily. Caroline Williams, CEO of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, said: “To facilitate economic growth in Norfolk there is a need to ensure that local businesses are aware of procurement and supply chain development opportunities. Another aspect is the need to maintain and grow urban area and projects such as City Deals will help in this area. Planning and an increase in house building will also contribute towards improved economic growth.”

New Anglia LEP has advised that they had taken all comments into consideration and a redrafted version was issued for wider consultation during May. The final plan will be taken to the New Anglia LEP Board towards the end of the summer.

Chance to win £25,000 for being the best.

There are lots of highly successful businesses throughout Norfolk and this is their opportunity to showcase the best of Norfolk at a national level. The Awards recognise and reward business success across the UK, with a range of specialist categories to meet the needs of any organisation. Each year hundreds of businesses compete for the coveted National Chamber Awards along with the £25,000 cash prize on offer.

The following categories are now open for entry:

Celebrating ten years of success, the Chamber Awards are considered one of the UK’s most hotly contested and prestigious business awards.

n n n n n

Online Business of the Year Most Promising New Business Exporter of the Year Excellence in Innovation Commitment to People Development

n Marketing Campaign of the Year n Outstanding Personal Achievement n The Sustainability Award Entry to the Chamber Awards is free for Norfolk Chamber members – so take the first step towards winning and enter your business today.

The closing date for entries is 28 June and the regional winners will be announced on 30th September. The winners will go through to compete in the National Final, where they will be judged by a panel of business leaders and entrepreneurs. The Chamber Awards programme will conclude with the prestigious gala awards dinner on 28th November in central London, where one business will be awarded the £25,000 prize courtesy of the RBS Group. To enter go to www.chamberawards.co.uk.

JULY/AUGUST MAY/JUNE 2011 2013

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NORFOLK VOICE

FOCUS ON ENGINEERING

Create The Real Green Deal.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Are you interested in trying to be more sustainable, want to be green, thinking about trying to be off grid, but don’t know where to start?

Not sure where to go to get independent advice, fed up with being sold PV/solar panels or other products by contractors and suppliers just trying to sell product? Interested in payback times, tax breaks and how to make the green deal really work for you? Then you need to speak to Create.

Create Energy, the specialist energy team at Create Consulting, provides independent energy advice to property owners and businesses. With a whole range of different initiatives, including the Green Deal being launched, with a certain degree of scepticism; the Feed in Tariff dropping considerably and the cost of PV panels dropping even quicker, it is very difficult to find clear practical advice.

Create works with its clients to understand their future property plans, their proposed investments budgets and what they would like to achieve following the review. We then undertake a detailed audit of current energy usage and develop a detailed model of how a building operates. Depending on the scale of the building, we would use our IES software which enables us to consider various different scenarios, including the benefits of insulation, lighting improvement, daylight issues, different heating solutions and general building fabric improvements. Our team of expert consultants will then work out the best solution for you and your property.

The output is provided in a concise easy to understand report outlining a range of potential

options with clear advice on payback, capital costs, with anticipated income and details of capital allowances and potential tax benefits.

Following the presentation to the client, Create will then project manage any installations, obtaining the best available prices, from competitive experienced contractors, removing the worry and time pressures away from the customer.

Create can also provide advice on a whole range of renewable technologies, including Solar, PV, Wind Turbines, Anaerobic Digesters, Biomass, CHP, Hydro Power, Ground Source

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and Air Source. Using the businesses core planning support skills, Create Energy can help landowners and energy developers achieve planning for a whole range of technologies.

If you would like to discuss any aspect of energy generation or efficiency then please contact Fiona Keysell or Jonathan Cage on 0845 450 7908 (or via email: jonathan.cage@ createconsultingengineers.co.uk/fiona. keysell@createconsultingengineers.co.uk).

Alternatively, Jonathan and Fiona will be at Sustainability 2013 at the John Innes Centre on the 9th May 2013.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Norfolk Chamber delighted with the uptake of their NEW Accredited Training Courses.

Norfolk Chamber is delighted with the amount of interest that has been shown for its brand new Accredited Training Courses covering International Trade.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is playing a leading role in the Government’s Get Britain Exporting agenda by launching a new National Trade Skills Training programme, which was rolled out in Norfolk from January 2013.

“So far, we have hosted four courses from the package of six, with some delegates making the most of the 10% discount we are offering for booking all six courses in one go,” said Tracey Howard, Norfolk Chamber’s International Trade Director.

“We are very lucky that our regular trainer, Mike Strawson, who has been working with us for many years, actually played an integral

part in writing not only the coursework, but the questions as well. This means that delegates who attend the courses are being trained by one of the major contributors. Every delegate who has attended the courses so far has received a Merit Pass, which is a credit to Mike.”

Norfolk Chamber members EV Offshore, based in Norwich, provide remote video in challenging environments to customers in the global oil and gas industry. They have booked Hannah Harvey onto all six courses and she has passed the four courses that she has completed so far.

Hannah said: “I would describe myself as a few steps in front of a beginner when it comes to import and export. Like most, I know what I need to know and fumble my way through everything else by asking as many questions as possible.

“As soon as I found out the Chamber of Commerce was running this series of training courses, I jumped at the opportunity and picked from the various course dates. Currently I am half way through the six topics and am already finding it incredibly useful, even managing to impress my freight agent when I use the correct

Mike Strawson, International Training

Tracey Howard, International Trade Director

terminology. Although I don’t need every topic, I would recommend attending all six, because even if you may not think you need it, it’s surprising how much you will use it.”

For more information on these courses, please contact the International Trade Team on 01603 729712 or email export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Global Marketplace Success!

Norfolk Chamber is delighted with the impact that The Global Marketplace Series has had on local businesses, with all of the events being attended by large numbers of delegates from all across the county.

The seminars, which were sponsored

by Barclays and UK Trade and Investment, have provided business growth opportunities for those looking to trade overseas, giving delegates a clear insight into the importance and opportunities of international trade and how it can impact their business at such a vital time.

We have all heard how Lord Green is determined to help more and more companies to start exporting for the first time, and we are confident that our efforts with this series of events has gone some way to help towards that goal.

The seminars have proved to be the most successful International Trade Events that Norfolk Chamber has organised in the past few years, notably by the increase in delegate numbers.

Some businesses booked themselves on all six seminars and told us that they would definitely make a concerted effort to look closer at these particular markets, as they had learned so much.

Norfolk Chamber is now planning the next series of International Events, which will begin later this year. Once planned, we will start to advertise these through our usual channels.

Anyone interested in receiving the International Trade Newsletter, where our future International Events will be highlighted, should contact the team on 01603 729712 or email export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

MAY/JUNE 2013

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NORFOLK VOICE

THE BIG INTER New centre promises vibrant times for green sector.

These are exciting times for the green industry in Norfolk, according to the man tasked with driving forward one of its most promising initiatives.

Environmental Sciences and the centre will take its work onto the next stage by encouraging the establishment of more spin-off companies.

Dr John French is leading the creation of a centre that builds on the successes of the University of East Anglia’s business activities in the low carbon sector.

In the past decade he has increasingly specialised in fundraising for major infrastructure projects, something which links in with the creation of the new centre.

Behind the move is the Adapt Low Carbon Group at Norwich Research Park, which was created by the merger of the university‘s Low Carbon Innovation Centre and the InCrops Enterprise Hub.

He said: “I have always been interested in protecting the environment. When I did my PhD it was about minimising the damage done by pesticides.

The Group works collaboratively with the Norwich Business School and the School of

It’s the latest challenge in a career which saw Dr French secure a BSc in Applied Biology from London University and a PhD from Cambridge after which he worked at a number of universities and also ran his own business.

“Although my background is in agriculture and biotech, I have over the years also

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become interested in economic development, particularly in levering finance.

“I have worked to plug the gap, the Valley of Death for businesses desperate to develop but unable to find the funding to do so.

“It is a specialised field but, once you have learned, it is amazing what you can achieve.”

That philosophy drove the idea for the Adapt Group, the idea for which came to Dr French when he created the InCrops Project, which went live in 2008 after gaining funding from EEDA and ERDF. With nine specialist staff, the Enterprise Hub promotes innovation in alternative non-food crops across the East of England.

The Adapt Low Carbon Group, in turn, is driving the new centre, which it is hoped will create hundreds of hi-tech jobs after UEA secured £6m from the European Regional Development Fund

THE BIG INTERVIEW

RVIEW

By John Dean deangriss@btinternet.com

Dr John French, CEO of the Adapt Low Carbon Group, based at the University of East Anglia.

on top of nearly £7m of its own funding and £2.5m of Government funds.

Designed to link with the NRP ecosystem of business support to help entrepreneurs transform low carbon ideas into business reality, the enterprise centre will be built on the UEA site close to a former garden centre near Earlham Park and will itself be a low carbon building design aimed at meeting the highest standards for energy use and sustainability.

Key to the 3,400sqm project, which will be up and running by 2014, will be a new centre for the built environment with an area dedicated to showcasing new sustainable products and biobased materials from local companies.

There will also be space for new start-up businesses to create opportunities for UEA graduates.

Dr French said: “I am passionate about renewables and this centre will act as a demonstrator.

“It will allow businesses to take their ideas and test them out and it fits in with the university’s intention to help more graduates start their own business.

“And we are going to be very broad in our criteria of what constitutes low carbon. For instance, we see digital as a low carbon industry.”

“The centre will be housed in a building which will itself inspire because of its low carbon design.

Key to the venture is the capacity to help the new businesses access funding, something which chimes with Dr French’s expertise in the field.

“The idea is that it will allow the creation of a cluster of like-minded businesses who can develop their ideas in our incubators.

“We really want to set new standards with the building and we would like to see graduates coming along and taking up incubator space.

A major part of the approach will be the Low Carbon Innovation Fund, a £30 million venture capital fund operated by the Adapt Low Carbon Group, based at UEA and managed by Turquoise International and set up in 2010.

“The centre will not only further advance UEA’s low carbon credentials but will also provide leadership and inspiration to businesses and entrepreneurs.

A Venture Capital Fund for SMEs in the East of England, LCIF invests in companies developing low carbon products and services or improving their processes to reduce their operational carbon (CO2) outputs.

“What we hope is that it will allow businesses to start up free of risk as they come up with innovative green solutions to reducing our carbon footprint. By working together on the same site, we hope to see collaborations.

Dr French said: “Funding is at the heart of what we are doing with the new centre. The existence of the Venture Capital Fund means that companies with good ideas will be able to apply for the funding they need.”

The idea is that it will allow the creation of a cluster of like-minded businesses who can develop their ideas in our incubators.

MAY/JUNE 2013

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PAGE TITLEVOICE NORFOLK

Company moves to new premises. requirement for headquarters closer to the A11.

This has been exacerbated by the opening of our London satellite office in November last year.

Norfolk audio visual experts Snelling Business Systems celebrated the start of building works on its new headquarters in Norfolk.

The event was marked with a traditional groundbreaking ceremony attended by Managing Director Toby Wise, the board of directors of The Snelling Group and contractors Plantdrive Limited.

Established more than 12 years ago to meet an increasing demand in the market for audio visual integration, Snelling Business Systems now employs 27 full time members of staff and is one of the market leaders in its field in the UK. Despite the challenging economic climate since 2008, the company has continued to grow year on year and has become increasingly recognized for its specialism within the education and higher education sector.

“We have, therefore, been looking for premises for some time, but when this particular site became available, we recognised its multiple advantages, not least the opportunity to build a purpose-built facility, which will perfectly suit the needs of the business.”

Toby Wise said: “When we initially founded Snelling Business Systems in 2001, we operated out of the Snelling Group’s premises in Blofield Heath, to the East of Norwich, where we have been based ever since.

“However, as the company has continued to grow, our premises, by contrast, seem to have shrunk, as our boardrooms, one by one, have been given over to workshops, office space and storage.

“In addition, as our reputation has spread and we have been awarded contracts further and further afield, in particular across the south of the country, we have recognised an increasing

The Snelling Group has purchased a substantial plot at Wymondham Business Park and, in conjunction with the developer Plantdrive and his design team Plandescil Limited, has designed bespoke premises, consisting of 15,000 square feet, which will incorporate a large loading bay, a unique product demonstration / witness testing area and large open plan offices on a mezzanine level.

The Snelling Group has also appointed local Architects, Cowen Consulting Limited, to project manage the development on their behalf. With an investment of over £1.5 million, the site will serve as the company’s main operations hub producing and processing goods for onward shipment to their satellite office and client sites.

Strategic alliance for Norfolk and Suffolk businesses.

Business telecoms specialist Comms Supply has formed a strategic alliance with Woodbridge IT support company, React Computer Partnership.

Working together, the two companies will be providing businesses across Norfolk and the East of England with a complete IT and connectivity solution.

“Broadband isn’t always the right fit and our business is all about creating bespoke solutions for our customers; we needed a partner who works in the same way. We often recommend that customers have two broadband connections at one site so that they are protected should problems occur. Comms Supply can provide us with these options.

React CP was founded in January 1997 by Richard Pledger and his brothers Alan and Francis. The company has established a great reputation for providing business customers across the East of England with a single contact point for all their IT needs: from hardware to software installation to comprehensive support.

“It was a mutual interest in football that first got me talking to Karl at a networking event, but once we’d finished chatting about sport we moved on to IT and telecoms. It became clear very quickly that Karl and his team share the same ethos as we do and there is a natural synergy between our two businesses.”

Comms Supply was founded by experienced business telecoms specialist Karl Alderton in January 2012. The company provides a wide range of business telecoms services: from comprehensive phone, mobile and broadband packages to simple line rental; with an aim of delivering innovative and flexible communications solutions that really help businesses to thrive.

Karl Alderton, MD Comms Supply (left), with Richard Pledger, Director of React Computer Partnership Ltd

Richard Pledger said: “When we are recommending IT solutions for our customers it makes perfect sense for us to be able to supply broadband or any other type of connectivity, such as fibre connections, that they may require.

In the past we have used large, well-known suppliers but they can provide a very onedimensional service.

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Karl said: “Forging this alliance with React CP is a great way to mark the first anniversary of Comms Supply. We’ve expanded into larger premises in Norfolk but are committed to growth in Suffolk and across the East. Suffolk is an extremely exciting market place for us. There is a varied business landscape with some innovative start up businesses working alongside established, highprofile organisations.”

MEMBERS NEWS

Norfolk law firm Hansells brings Elgar expert to Norwich.

Property dealmaker of the year.

Solicitor Walter Hansell, one of our partners, and he was also a client of the firm. Elgar met Walter at the triennial Norwich Music Festival in 1905.

Their friendship is recorded in the Elgar Diaries.”

Martin Bird also attended a performance of Elgar’s The Apostles performed by Norwich Philharmonic Society who are sponsored by Hansells. The Apostles was a very challenging work which required six soloists.

Back Left, Hansells managing partner Roger Holden and world Elgar expert Martin Bird with pupils from Kinsale Junior School

Norfolk law firm Hansells Solicitors & Financial Advisers invited the world Elgar expert, Martin Bird, to give school pupils a masterclass on the composer’s links to Norwich and Norfolk.

Roger Holden, Hansells Managing Partner, said “Edward Elgar was a great friend of Norfolk

“If it wasn’t for the generous sponsorship from firms like Hansells, music organisations would struggle to afford to put on works like this. It is so expensive,” said Martin.

Robert, who joined Arnolds Keys in 2009, beat off competition from commercial property professionals in all of the major national firms, as well as local competitors, to carry off the Dealmaker title.

Caroline Dixey, chairman of Norwich Philharmonic Society said: “Elgar’s connections with Hansells make his links with the city and county even more fascinating. He is not recognised as much as he should be for his contribution to music in Norwich.”

Managing partner Guy Gowing commented: “Robert’s success shows that even in difficult economic times, tenacity, good contacts and an excellent local market knowledge can result in deals being done.

Charity partnerships.

Ashton KCJ Solicitors has announced that it will be supporting three local charities through a charity of the year partnership. They are Macmillan Cancer Support, Magpas and Norwich based Nelson's Journey.

Each year, staff at the firm vote for the charities they wish to support. The firm aims to raise at least £10,000 during the year through activities such as dress down days, cake sales and by staff taking part in sporting events.

The firm has already exceeded its fundraising target for its current charities: EACH, Big C and Headway. The funds have been raised by staff

“It is telling that this award has been won by someone working in a locally-based firm – that closeness to the local market and the local economy really is the key to actually completing deals, which in the end has to be the ultimate measure of success for any property professional.”

taking part in a 125 mile bike ride, a sky dive, Santa Runs, Hats for Headway and much more.

Edward O’Rourke, CEO at Ashton KCJ, said: “We are delighted to be supporting three new charities this year, each of which provide vital services and support in the local communities where we live and work.”

Norwich design agency ‘clicks’ with National Trust.

Sue Bailey, Associate and Chair of Ashton KCJ’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) team, added: “We recognise that the current climate is making fundraising for charities more and more difficult. We will be mobilising our staff to get involved in as many fundraising activities as possible throughout the year.”

Elite public service academy.

From September, Elite, in conjunction with College of West Anglia, will open the doors of the Public Services Academy to the first cohort of students.

The Academy will initially take school leavers and offer them a range of Level 2 qualifications, with progression to either the level 3 qualification in Public Services at the academy or regional college, into an apprenticeship or full time work with a local employer.

The course will cover subjects such as: n Teamworking and problem-solving

A Norwich property professional has been named Norfolk’s commercial property ‘Dealmaker of the Year’ by leading industry publication Estates Gazette.

The publication looked at every commercial property deal done in the county during 2012, and found that Robert Flint of Arnolds Keys had negotiated and completed more deals than anyone else.

n Understanding health and safety and hygiene n Physical fitness n Equality and diversity n Working as a volunteer The programme is delivered over 14 weeks and prospective employers are welcome to observe and interview potential apprentices and employees during this time. Elite has backing from Norfolk’s largest employers and senior political figures, but would like to encourage all members to support this exciting new project

The Click Design Consultants are delighted to announce that they have been appointed to create an advertising campaign for the National Trust.

The campaign will aim to highlight the breadth of offer, encourage repeat visits and communicate the Trust’s great outdoor experiences – as well as showcase the wonderful properties. Launching in May, the campaign will run across the East of England.

Creative Director, Bobby Burrage, comments: “We’re extremely proud of our client list. Year on year it becomes evermore diverse with a wonderful array of organisations. It’s an honour to be able to name the National Trust as a client and we’re very excited about starting work with them.”

MAY/JUNE 2013

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NORFOLK VOICE

WINSOR BISHOP

Exciting Time at Winsor Bishop.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Sky Dweller Is availiable in White Gold, Yellow Gold or Rose Gold.

Cosmogrpah Daytona. Is available in White Gold Or Yellow Gold.

Winsor Bishop is proud to have a long standing relationship with Rolex, the leading brand of the Swiss watch industry.

Headquartered in Geneva, Rolex enjoys an unrivalled reputation for quality and expertise the world over. As Baselworld 2013 (the world’s leading watch exhibition) has just reached its climax with some exciting new additions to the watch world it is worth taking time to remember models which were released at last year’s event, all of which are at our London Street store.

All Rolex OYSTER watches, are certified as chronometers for their precision, are symbols of excellence, performance and prestige. Pioneer in the development of the wristwatch as early as 1905, the brand is at the origin of numerous major watchmaking innovations, such as the OYSTER, the first waterproof wristwatch, launched in 1926, and the PERPETUAL rotor selfwinding mechanism introduced in 1931. Rolex has registered over 400 patents in the course of its history. A truly integrated manufacturing company, Rolex designs, develops and produces in-house all the essential components of its watches, from the casting of the gold

alloys to the machining, crafting, assembly and finishing of the movement, case, dial and bracelet. Rolex is also actively involved in supporting the arts, sports, the spirit of enterprise, and the environment through a broad palette of sponsoring activities as well as philanthropic and patronage programmes.

A prime example of Rolex watchmaking expertise, the Oyster Perpetual SKY-DWELLER is an entirely new watch combining practical functions, ease of use and the timeless elegance of classic Rolex lines. Designed with global travellers in mind, its dual time zone display is intuitive to read and easy to operate.

The SKY-DWELLER is also equipped with an annual calendar that automatically adjusts the date at the end of months with 30 and 31 days – thanks to a patented design that ensures outstanding reliability for this type of function – as well as a particularly practical interface for setting the watch: the patented rotatable RING COMMAND bezel.

A distillation of Rolex innovation, the SKYDWELLER incorporates no fewer than 14 patents, five of which are brand new. It is equipped with the new calibre 9001, a mechanical selfwinding movement developed and manufactured by Rolex, certified as a chronometer, with a 72-hour power reserve. Available in 18 ct yellow, white or EVEROSE gold, in a 42 mm case, the SKYDWELLER is an embodiment of the precision, reliability and prestige of Rolex watches.

Ask any serious watch enthusiast to name the most highly sought after watch, and chances are that the same name will come up time after

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time—the Daytona. The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, enjoys a status and cult-like following that no other watch in the world can claim.

The Daytona is offered in several variations, including stainless steel models and are particularly prized by collectors. Rolex sends each of their dealers a very limited number of the coveted stainless steel Daytona variants each year. Not surprisingly, demand for the Daytona far outstrips supply, as it has for many years, and nearly every Rolex dealer maintains a long list of clients waiting for the opportunity to purchase one.

Named after the international speedway ‘Daytona’ where Rolex sponsored the event not long after its inception; this jewelled version of the Oyster Perpetual COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA in 18ct yellow or white gold is resplendent with a bezel entirely set with an array of 36 rainbow coloured natural sapphires. The lugs and crown guard of the case are set with sparkling diamonds. The black lacquer dial is adorned with diamond-set hour markers and GOLD CRYSTALS counters whose particular reflections are achieved by an exclusive process.

Featuring 8 internally flawless diamond-set hour markers and indices in 18ct gold which are all hand applied.

01603 620638 www.winsorbishop.co.uk

CONFERENCES & EXHIBITIONS

Innovation key in the world of conferences and exhibitions.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Breakfast Meetings at Norwich Cathedral The conferences and exhibitions industry has been through challenging times but the signs are that innovation continues to offer hope for its future.

The main reason for the sector’s resilience, according to industry experts, is its ability to constantly try out new things while never losing touch with the needs of its clients.

That has been underlined by several sources, including the report compiled jointly by the Events Industry Forum and the Business Visits & Events Partnership.

It highlighted opportunities for growth in the UK Events Industry, which it suggested can grow from its existing £36.1 billion, to £42.2 billion in 2015 and £48.4 billion in 2020.

So what are you looking for if you are trying to organise a conference or exhibition and need to select a venue? One of the key factors is a good location, somewhere that is easy to reach and attractive for delegates.

When assessing the venue you are looking at other factors as well. Can it 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?

The good venues are the ones that can tailor themselves to providing the exact needs of the event organisers and are prepared to be flexible.

One trend increasingly being observed is the arrival in the market of venues previously not considered for such events. Hotels and business centres have always hosted conferences and exhibitions but increasingly other venues are becoming involved. From football grounds to cathedrals, such venues offer something a little different in terms of visitor experience.

One approach for conference originators is to bring in a specialist company to identify the best venues and do the organising, working in liaison with staff at the event hosts.

The staff at these outsource companies will have encountered just about every problem presented by the process and take all the worry away from the company originating the event.

Testimonial – Mark Fair, Breakaway Networking

Linked to the conferences and exhibitions market is the need to offer corporate hospitality as part of the package and many conference and events organisers are integrating such attractions as added value for their events.

A recent report by Market Intelligence provider Key Note said that, although the economic downturn had resulted in a drop in activity in the corporate hospitality sector, some companies still saw good reasons for continuing with the investment, recognising that strengthening the relationships between client and business partner during tough times is more important than ever.

Spectator sports remained the most popular choice for provision of corporate entertainment, including everything from a trip to the races or a visit to see a football match.

As a result, the company believes that the corporate hospitality industry will increase by 8.5% to reach a value of £1.34bn in 2016.

Combining a modern and adaptable space with first class catering, and home to numerous breakfast clubs in Norfolk, the Refectory provides the ideal venue for those early morning meetings. But don’t just take our word for it…

For the past five years Breakaway Networking has been meeting weekly at the Refectory, and it would be hard to beat as a venue in the centre of Norwich.

The building adds an ambience to our meetings and always impresses any guests, giving a stunning first impression, and the hospitality team are excellent, with the quality of food and service always exceedingly high. Overall, the Refectory provides a perfect venue for various events and offers excellent value for money.

Breakfast delegate rates start from only £10 + VAT per person. For further information and to book contact 01603 218322, hospitality@cathedral.org.uk or visit www.cathedral.org.uk/venue-hire

MAY/JUNE 2013

PAGE21

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For further information and to book contact 01603 218322, hospitality@cathedral.org.uk or visit www.cathedral.org.uk/venue-hire

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Skills for Energy Thursday 4th July, 10am-4pm John Innes Centre, Norwich

People: Powering the Future Help us to give people the skills to shape the future of the energy industry.

To learn more or to book, go to www.eeegr.com/events or call 01493 446535

The home of English country life and the great outdoors An elegant 16th Century Manor House nestled in Norfolk’s natural beauty of unspoiled beaches, stately homes, and historical surroundings. An inspirational retreat to savour time, do nothing, do everything. Enjoy hearty food in 1559 restaurant or a relaxed game of golf on the Manor Championship course.

We will inspire you with timely, manor house traditions in a fresh and playful way.

The hotel will deliver the highest standard of service in a relaxed environment. A perfect venue for groups of up to 40, rooms, balls and banquets up to 300, product launches, away-days, ‘blue sky thinking’, team meetings and training. Flexible and unique – that’s Sprowston Manor.

Sprowston Manor a Marriott Hotel, Sprowston Park, Wroxham Road, Sprowston, Norfolk NR7 8RP

T: 01603 418087 E: gina.frost@marriotthotels.com www.marriottsprowstonmanor.co.uk

MAY/JUNE 2013

PAGE23

NORFOLK VOICE

Businesses have to go further than ‘just recycling’.

Leading Norfolk environmental consultants Delta-Simons says that firms are still out of touch with the green revolution and waste millions of pounds as a result.

Delta-Simons, which helped prepare the Olympic Park for the landmark 2012 games and works with clients including Tesco and the Crown Estate, said recycling was ‘just the beginning’ and countless more measures needed to be implemented.

MD Gareth Pickles said: “In the past, many companies just wanted to be seen to be doing their bit. For a long time now businesses have seen the green revolution as something soft and fluffy, a cause only for those with a conscience, but now they realise it’s something they simply cannot ignore and has significant commercial drivers in terms of reducing overhead, winning new business and making profit.

“Most companies employ some sort of waste recycling activity but recycling is the tip of the iceberg and those companies are missing the point. There are huge benefits to be had from avoiding and managing waste properly but often most commercial benefits are won from a more comprehensive approach to corporate

responsibility including looking hard at energy, water, waste, transport, policy, management systems and looking to change inefficient old operating habits.

“Business leaders are often wary of change, but this isn’t about radical change, it’s about selectively and subtly adapting business practise gradually as part of sound leadership for increased profit. In these economic circumstances, what credible business leader wouldn’t want to do that?

“There is a general acknowledgement that we can’t carry on using more energy but now it’s time to put that into practice.”

Chris Perry, Membership Manager of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, said that Chamber members are routinely now being asked to

report on environmental performance and carbon footprint in tender processes.

Mandatory carbon reporting began in April for FTSE-listed companies, although the net is likely to be widened in the coming years.

The introduction of these reports will enable investors to see which companies are effectively managing the hidden long-term costs of greenhouse gas emissions.

Indeed, firms with a more responsible attitude to the environment are likely to win more contracts after a number of local authorities and trusts decided to measure carbon footprints as part of the tendering process.

Delta-Simons has offices in Norwich, Lincoln, Edinburgh and Durham.

OneStream wins business award.

OneStream was among those companies honoured at the awards ceremony which took place at The Zest Rooms, Potters Leisure Resort, to celebrate all that’s outstanding in business and enterprise in the Borough of Great Yarmouth.

The awards recognise achievement through innovation, entrepreneurial thinking and sheer determination of businesses of all sizes and from every sector.

Matt Buck, Head of Customer Experience at OneStream, said: “We are delighted to have won the Great Business to Business Customer Service Award at the Spirit of Enterprise Awards judged by Bateman Groundworks. The awards evening was fantastic – really well organized by enterprise GY with a great venue, excellent food, great entertainment and good networking opportunities, too.

“Winning this award is independent approval for the hard work of our business and its people; it serves as a marker of what we expect of our organisation, and what others can expect of us; it has further boosted the spirit of the team at OneStream and crucially it will spur us to build on our hard work and achieve more.

“The quality of the judging businesses and fellow finalists across all of the award entries was impressive. For me, the Awards evening really drove home how Great Yarmouth has a great deal to offer and be proud of.”

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Chris Share, Managing Director of OneStream (left) and Matt Buck, Head of Customer Experience of OneStream.

MEMBERS NEWS

A Rosie future for young apprentice.

Left to right: Su Bolden, care curriculum design manager from Norfolk County Council; Rosie Cole and Christine Futter

Previously unemployed jobseeker, Rosie Cole from Dereham, is one of three young recruits now looking forward to rewarding careers in care work, thanks to a successful employment partnership between Norwich-based Ingeus and Norfolk and Suffolk Care Support (N&SCS).

Ingeus delivers the Government’s Work Programme across the East of England, working with employers to provide local unemployed candidates for vacancies. Rosie and her colleagues have been employed as care apprentices by N&SCS, a not-for-profit organisation set up to access training, funding and specialist advice for care sector employers.

Rosie, 19, was out of work for almost a year before being referred to Ingeus for help with developing her CV, confidence and interview skills. Despite previous work experience and making every effort to find a job, including moving house to an area with more opportunities, it wasn’t until Ingeus recommended her for the care apprenticeship that she was able to make the much-wished-for move from benefits into permanent work.

Rosie is now employed on a year-long, Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care; an intensive, industry-recognised

Strategy team takes local businesses to the Top

suite of qualifications to enable her to work in any care environment. The apprenticeship project is funded by Norfolk County Council and includes a comprehensive induction and three work placements, plus theory-based training provided by Norfolk Adult Education and Guidance Service.

She said: “My partner and I were both unemployed and I was beginning to despair of ever finding a job, let alone one which would lead to a lasting career. I was interested in care work at school so this apprenticeship is a real lifeline. I’m learning so much on placement and feel like I’m finally achieving something.”

Christine Futter, Operational Business Manager at N&SCS, worked with Ingeus’s specialist employer services team to recruit the apprentices. The service is free to employers and is tailored to their specific needs and vacancies. Four Ingeus clients were successful, one recruited directly into a local care home vacancy, while three joined the apprenticeship scheme. As young jobseekers on the Work Programme the apprentices were employed with support from the Government’s Youth Contract, a wage subsidy for employers recruiting long-term unemployed 18-24 year-olds.

Christine said: “Ingeus really listened to my requirements and understood the qualities I was looking for. It was clear that the candidates had been well briefed on the roles and had a genuine enthusiasm and aptitude for the work.

“Working with Ingeus saved me time and meant there were no advertising costs. Accessing the Youth Contract funding has also enabled us to invest in further training and Rosie is now firmly on the way to a fulfilling career in care.”

Working with jobseekers to improve employability skills, and employers to deliver a fee-free, end-toend recruitment service, Ingeus both recruits and helps retain staff for employers of all sizes and industries. Visit www.ingeus.co.uk/employers for further information on Ingeus’s services and the Youth Contract Wage Incentive.

The Price Bailey Strategy team with leading local entrepreneurs

Twenty of the region’s entrepreneurial business leaders joined Price Bailey’s business strategy team for the third meeting of PB Entrepreneurs at the Top of the City, Norwich City Football Club, last week.

The group has formed to meet each quarter, offering strategic insight and peer review to important clients and contacts of the firm who are looking to grow and improve their businesses.

The firm’s head of strategy and development, and lead business coach, Nick Mayhew, said: “It’s a natural add-on to our chartered accountancy practice.

“In getting to know our clients’ businesses inside out from a financial perspective, we are also in a really good position to help them to build on their strengths and meet wider business challenges.

PB Entrepreneurs offers a forum to support that.”

PB Entrepreneurs Clubs are already established in London and Cambridge. The theme of the afternoon was growth - learning from the examples of high-growth companies including Zappos and SpaceX, as well as high-growth clients. Attendees worked through their own plans, before wrapping up with an hour focussed on the business growth plans of one particular member. Dr Vince Forté, the subject of the specific case study, said: “It was such a privilege to be able to present our business case and receive so much valuable advice – all those top business brains working for me!”.

The group meets next in Norwich on 11th June, to discuss ‘Winning Strategies’.

FEBRUARY/MARCH MAY/JUNE 2013

PAGE25

NORFOLK VOICE

The advantages of thinking local.

In an age of global market places and international supply chains, the local provider can sometimes miss out.

However, that need not necessarily be the case and concerns about the environment and the amount of miles goods travel are beginning to open up new opportunities for businesses seeking to sell locally.

In addition, there is a growing appreciation that using a locally-based provider allows for a higher quality, and certainly more personal, service than might come from a major company.

That is certainly the experience of John Cowan, Team Principal of Norfolk-based Spirit Motorsport Ltd, whose business actively seeks out local suppliers and supports Norfolk Chamber of Commerce’s campaign to do the same.

He said: “We have a policy of supporting local business. Recently, Spirit Motorsport took part in the meet the buyer event hosted by the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Norfolk County Council.

“Sourcing products and services locally plays a key part of our Corporate Social Responsibility commitment and it also enables us to reduce the mileage that products travel, saving on transport costs and benefiting the environment.

“Norfolk has some amazing potential companies that can really add value into the Spirit Motorsport supply chain, many of whom attended the the Meet the Buyer event 14th March at Carrow Road.

“The approach Spirit Motorsport has is to always be open to talk to potentially new suppliers.”

His comments find an echo at fellow Norfolk company Seajacks, a leading owner and operator of purpose-built self-propelled jack-up vessels working primarily in offshore wind energy and oil & gas sectors.

found locally that, although not impossible to find from suppliers further afield, are definitely harder to maintain.

“I’ve found in my time procuring for Seajacks and, to a lesser degree, in my previous job, that once set up, the support we get locally is second to none.

“We’re lucky to have some very knowledgeable and competitive suppliers, basically on our doorstep.

“They are also very used to working with the demands of the oil & gas and renewable energy business, which means that you can more often than not get that elusive part on a Sunday afternoon or late evening.

“One of our suppliers actually drove some desperately needed oil down to Harwich one evening about 10 o’clock and there’s been numerous examples like that which speaks volumes for local supply.

“I think this sort of service and support is something that is down to locality. Local suppliers know that little bit more about Seajacks avenues of work. They know if they provide a good service to us, we’ll make sure people know about it.

“Local suppliers tend to be the ones who can suggest better quality alternatives for the cost.

“Being nearer to hand also makes it easier to build on the foundations already made, sometimes a 10 minute face to face chat can be more rewarding than a host of emails and phone calls. Again, this is that much easier when you’re dealing with people that are half an hour away.“ Hayley Mace, publications editor at Norfolkbased Anglia Farmers, agrees and the company values its good relationships with local suppliers.

She said; “We value our network of local suppliers and work closely with a wide range of Norfolk businesses to source everything from animal feed to building supplies and vehicles.

“We recognise the importance of buying close to home – and close to our members – looking not just for great prices but excellent customer service.

Materials Supervisor Dirk Doornbos said: “The opportunities that larger businesses see buying locally are, I think, many.

“As our membership grows across the country, our supply chain has extended and we work with a number of national suppliers, but our aim is to develop excellence in agricultural purchasing and we work with suppliers who share that ethos and who can help us achieve that goal, wherever they may be.

“There’s the obvious ones which include the lack or near lack of carriage charges and the ease of amending any shortfalls or mistakes, but the real value is the relationships and support that’s

“We have 1,700 approved suppliers and hear regularly from businesses who want to work with us and benefit from the potential that our volumes can bring to their business.”

The company particularly values the personal level of service that comes from buying local.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Being nearer to hand also makes it easier to build on the foundations already made, sometimes a 10 minute face to face chat can be more rewarding than a host of emails and phone calls. Again, this is that much easier when you’re dealing with people that are half an hour away Dirk Doornbos Materials Supervisor, Seajacks

COVER FEATURE

Image from Seajacks

MAY/JUNE 2013

PAGE27

NORFOLK VOICE

Is there still funding for business out there?

So much has changed in recent months, it’s easy to think all public funding has disappeared – but there are still sources you should consider if you are seeking business finance.

The Low Carbon Innovation Fund (LCIF) was set up to provide investment into Small or Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the East of England to facilitate the regional aspiration to become a world class low carbon economy.

Launched in 2010, the Low Carbon Innovation Fund is a £30 million venture capital fund operated by the Adapt Low Carbon Group, based at UEA and managed by Turquoise International.

low carbon products and services or improving their processes to reduce their operational carbon (CO2) outputs.

LCIF has a wide-ranging remit to invest in a variety of different sectors and has a current portfolio that includes such diverse technologies as terahertz analytical tools and innovative vegetation control products.

One such company is Syrinix, a world leader in developing smart pipeline monitoring technology, based at the Hethel engineering centre in Norfolk.

Syrinix has received early stage and follow on investment from LCIF (£65K and £750K respectively), both part of much larger investment rounds.

CEO James Dunning said: “LCIF has been key to our fundraising rounds as their support provides credibility to our company and establishes the firm foundations of an investment round which others feel confident to join. Our recent funding round of £2.2m would not have been possible without the support and hard work of the LCIF team”

LCIF has invested more than £4m of European Regional Development Fund monies alongside £11m private investment which will rise to a combined total of £50m by the end of 2015.

To build on its successes, LCIF is expanding its offerings this year to include a small investment scheme, which will provide smaller amounts of equity funding through a quicker and easier application route, with standardised terms to reduce the costs for SMEs requiring smaller amounts of investment.

A Venture Capital Fund for SMEs in the East of England, LCIF invests in companies developing

Please visit www.lowcarbonfund.co.uk for further details.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

What about other funding sources?

The Technology Strategy Board (TSB) offers a range of funding options from TSB SMART funding (for Proof of Market, Proof of Concept of Prototype grant) to the TSB Collaborative R&D grant, which has regular specific calls to encourage business and universities to work together on innovative projects in science, engineering and technology.

There are also regular calls for applications for Feasibility Studies, and the European FP7 funding for collaborative research and development.

In addition the UK government frequently calls for business inputs through the SMALL Business Research Initiative (SBRI).

The availability of these funding opportunities changes, so it’s important to keep searching for updates at www.innovateuk.org/competitions A number of low carbon funding opportunities can also be found on government websites such as www.gov.uk/innovation-funding-for-lowcarbon-technologies-opportunities-for-bidders and another place to keep an eye on is www.gov.uk/business-finance-support-finder which provides a search engine to locate business support for your type of business based on your postcode.

Laura Chellis, Programme Manager, Innovation Funding, Adapt Low Carbon Group, University of East Anglia.

FUNDING FEATURE

KEEP-ing it green Businesses in eastern England are taking advantage of a scheme which supports their work in the field of waste minimisation.

More than £3.2 million of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) funding is available to small to medium businesses in the East of England through the Low Carbon KEEP programme .

The opportunity is designed to support SMEs by helping them to reduce resource consumption, develop new products, increase profitability and purchase capital items such as equipment and software.

Managed by Anglia Ruskin University, the scheme has already funded more than 40 successful projects and provided £975,000 of funding to SMEs. The Low Carbon KEEP team is eager to support more small to medium-sized businesses in an effort to reduce carbon emissions, increase profitability and improve competitiveness.

It also enables businesses to improve their competitiveness by working with an academic and graduate.

Despite spending cuts throughout Europe and the UK, funding for Low Carbon KEEP projects is still available until the end of December 2014.

For more information, visit www.anglia.ac.uk/ lowcarbon, phone 0845 196 4310 or email lowcarbon@anglia.ac.uk.

Rev-ing up for business growth REV ACTIVE is a three-year package of free, confidential and impartial support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMES), focused along the A11 corridor in Norfolk.

It identifies those SMEs with the greatest potential to improve their resource efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

The focus throughout is on low cost/no cost opportunities, bottom line benefits and short payback periods.

One company that benefited was Green Frog Taxis, in Norwich, a successful business start-up running a fleet of environmentally-friendly hybrid vehicles.

Removing the barriers to growth The New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership helps to grow jobs and remove the barriers to business growth in Norfolk and Suffolk.

Its Growing Business Fund is designed to accelerate the expansion of small and mediumsized businesses whose growth is being held back by a lack of finance.

REV ACTIVE assisted in the expansion of Green Frog Taxis to include three new Toyota Prius Hybrid vehicles in the fleet by the end of 2012.

The scheme will invest £3m of Regional Growth Funds to create 250 local jobs until March 2015.

It is targeted at Greater Norwich (including Norwich, Broadland, and South Norfolk) and Great Yarmouth.

By investing in fuel efficient hybrid vehicles, Green Frog Taxis is able to reduce the carbon impact of the business and reduce fuel overheads with savings passed on to the customer.

Jason Middleton, New Anglia’s Funding and Projects Manager, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for companies in Greater Norwich and Great Yarmouth to secure significant funding to boost their business.

Another enterprise to benefit was Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, at South Walsham, near Norwich.

“The fund will provide grants of up to 20%, between £25,000 and £100,000 to business that have a shortfall in their investment plan and are able to create at least one job for every £10,000 provided by the fund.”

As part of an extension to their tea rooms, Fairhaven wanted to ensure that they were doing things in the most resource efficient manner possible.

REV ACTIVE recommended a range of improvements, including extra doors and windows in the new extension, maximising natural ventilation, pinpointing opportunities to improve efficiency and installing energy monitors.

Louise Rout, of Fairhaven, said: “REV ACTIVE has advised and supported us each step of the way as we make our business increasingly resource efficient.”

More information is available at www.revactive.co.uk

To find out more, visit www.newanglia.co.uk

CHAMBER DIGEST Ask any business person trying to develop a business what would help most and many of them would identify access to funding. In this edition of NV, we look at some opportunities open to Norfolk companies.

For more funding information check out the Knowledge section of www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

MAY/JUNE 2013

PAGE29

NORFOLK VOICE

TELECOMS

Telecommunications industry faces up to challenges.

Few industries move as rapidly as telecommunications, an industy where technological breakthroughs come on a daily basis.

Take the rapid advance of hand-held technologies, which is opening up a myriad of new opportunities, giving companies the chance to communicate with clients who are on the move.

Then there’s Facebook and Twitter and other sorts of communications tools, as people increasingly receive their information online through Social Media.

Within the office, communications systems are becoming ever more efficient with everything from conference calls to Skype changing the way we work.

Where there are opportunities so there are challenges and the challenge for telecoms providers is not just to keep up with developments but also to make sure they are constantly innovating.

Market research specialist Informa Telecoms & Media recently said that the challenges would continue throughout 2013, in its view.

Chief Research Officer Mark Newman said: “We reckon that 2013 is going to be another tough year for the telecoms industry with a continued emphasis on cost control… and we see risks for those operators that do not invest properly in building wide-area networks that can deliver high-quality data services.”

That emphasis on high quality is crucial because so many companies rely on fast communications.

Take marketing, which has found itself having to cope with the dramatic development of technology over recent years.

Going back twenty years, the main way for public relations agencies to convey information about their clients was through the post, sending out hardcopy press releases and printed photographs.

What brought about the major change was the advent of email. Suddenly, it did not take a press release two days to reach a media outlet, it took two seconds, and all done at the press of a button.

The effect has been dramatic: suddenly a PR agency sending out a release can see it hitting the web within minutes, particularly as many media outlets now consider themselves as much Internet providers as conveying news through their more traditional formats.

The same is true of telecoms providers serving companies with staff out on the road for much of the time; from engineers to sales people, they need to be able to make and take calls while on the move and to ensure that happens, they need telecoms systems that work and work well.

The same is true of marketing firms and experts realise that the telecommunications providers who best suit their needs are the ones who can ensure systems that are rapid and reliable.

Judging from the rate of innovation under way, the telecommunications industry is rising to the challenge.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

SUPERFAST BROADBAND IS IN NORFOLK NOW!

Super Fast Fibre Broadband Has Arrived In Norfolk

SWAINS PLC, Connectivity Specialists for East Anglia, are helping businesses across the region get the most out of the broadband services available to them such as:

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Our Data Specialist Robert Locke says “Fibre Broadband is a cost effective, high speed data connecton. Since its introducton to Norfolk we have seen a major increase in orders placed for this service enabling businesses to beneft from working smarter.”

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LOCAL COMPANY HIT

BY TELEPHONE FRAUD TELEPHONE fraud is now bigger than credit card fraud and if undetected could cost your company thousands of pounds. A local business recently fell victm of this criminal actvity and despite being aware of the issue, really hadn’t comprehended the implicatons of being liable for the calls made which amounted to thousands of pounds.

Through working with Swains and understanding the technicality of the fraud, they now have in place securer measures.

East Anglia’s Connectivity Specialists, Swains Plc, offers a FraudProtect service. Whilst we cannot promise telephone fraud won’t happen to you, we can help minimise your liability cost*. *Terms and Conditons apply.

NORFOLK VOICE

MEMBERS NEWS

New joint venture company will safeguard jobs and deliver key services.

L to R. Mike Britch (MD Norse Group) Bill Tombs (Operational Manager, Norwich Norse) Councillor Alan Walters, Peter Hawes (Norse Commercial Services MD), Adrian Akester (Head of Citywide Services, Norwich City Council)

A multi-million pound contract between Norse Commercial Services and Norwich City Council, which will secure the jobs of a local workforce and strengthen the bonds of a public sector partnership, came into effect on 1 March.

“It represents real benefit for the residents and taxpayers of Norwich and will give the longterm services-delivery stability, and employment security, that can be a problem with traditional supplier and contractor agreements. It’s a business model that Norse has proven to represent best practice and value in an increasing number of similar arrangements that the company has with local councils around the UK.” Councillor Alan Waters, Norwich City Council’s deputy leader, said: “The decision to create a publicly owned joint venture is based on the need to strengthen and protect a number of key city council services. It will also provide security of employment for the staff transferring to the new organisation.”

About 150 staff have transferred into the new company under TUPE arrangements.

The £4.8 million per year contract to deliver environmental services such as street cleaning, grounds maintenance, building cleaning, arboriculture, pest control and sheltered housing cleaning will be provided by a new company called Norwich Norse (environmental).

“This joint venture approach between Norse and Norwich City Council is a partnership, with shared goals and agreed outcomes for mutual benefit,” said Managing Director of Norwich Norse Graham Jermyn.

Brian Rye, regional secretary of UCATT, said: “UCATT welcomes the initiative of Norwich City Council to establish the partnership of Norwich Norse and supports the delivery of public services in Norwich through this joint venture. We believe it will help to end fears and uncertainty over job security which our members have endured for over two years.”

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

B2B’s James earns his stripes.

It has been 18 months of steep learning curve for James Stanford, who was offered the first ever 'work experience' opportunity within B2B Cashflow Solutions.

Director Simon Reynolds said: “'Guinea Pig' James joined us, as a favour to his father who is well known to our Directors, in September 2011 on a work experience programme after passing his A-levels but struggling to find a career path.

“Since that time, James has worked extremely hard from a 'standing start' to learn the basics of commercial finance, focusing specifically on asset finance, invoice finance, and business rates rebates in support of our business customers.

“During his 'apprenticeship' James has been developing his industry knowledge and skills through on-the-job training, periodic written tests, and targeted delivery of service and solutions to selected existing customers.

“More recently, James has begun to evidence a level of apptitude which is exposing him to regular face-to-face contact with customers and professional partners, while also generating his own new-business customers base through proactive contact of pre-qualified target prospects.”

ENGINEERING

Celebrating the engineers and seeking the new talent.

It is difficult to underestimate the importance of engineers to the modern world.

Take any major industrial project and it needs engineers.

Any large investment will always include them because they are the ones who narrow the gap between a design on a board to the reality on the ground.

They are the ones who make things happen.

They were the ones who shaped the Industrial Revolution through their skills in bridge-building, furnaces, mining equipment and shipbuilding and they are the ones who continue to shape the world today.

But the importance of engineering is not just about large buildings and big bridges, it is

about the smaller things in life - the gutter and the electronic device, the car and the battery.

Each one has an element of engineering in it somewhere and Norfolk has plenty of highly skilled companies continuing to carry out high quality work.

Ensuring that the number of youngsters progress to careers in the field is seen as crucial to ensuring the future of our companies and our nation as it competes on the world scale.

However, there is a challenge in the eyes of many, namely that there is a lack of engineering skills in the UK economy.

There are plenty of skilled men and women already working in the field but everyone from business leaders to politicians are concerned about the dearth of replacements when they retire.

One of the challenges is changing the perception of the industry, making young people realise that it is not just about ‘oily rags’ but also about the likes of chemical engineering and nanotechnology, using highly skilled scientific methods.

At a time when some other professions are seen as having more ‘glamour‘, those working in industry are speaking out to celebrate the importance of the engineer.

That is why they are calling for more initiatives to encourage young people to take the subjects that they need for careers in engineering, Maths and Science primary among them.

And the opportunities are there for those who embrace them. With sectors like renewables and offshore oil and gas experiencing encouraging times, the need for engineers has never been greater.

Companies and trade bodies are already doing their bit, running apprenticeships and training schemes which will unearth the next generation of talented engineering.

They are not just working in the UK because many companies operate on a global scale with the result that their engineers will work all over the world.

The same can be said about Norfolk education providers, who have realised that there remain exciting opportunities in engineering fields.

It’s the capacity to export expertise that ensures that UK-based companies can look forward to exciting times ahead - with the engineers playing their part.

MAY/JUNE 2013

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NORFOLK VOICE

R&C CHURCH LTD

Going from strength to strength.

ADVERTISING FEATURE The company currently serves the following industries;

R&C Church Engineers Ltd is a family run business, established in 1982. At present it provides a precision engineering service both locally and nationally.

n Oil and Gas n Offshore n Shipping n Factory n Agriculture n Transport n Prototype Engineering n 24 Hour Emergency Call Out Service (365 days a year)

With over 30 years experience and a wealth of knowledge, providing customers with a complete cradle to grave package which allows the company to work closely with many contacts to provide fabrication, heat treatments, testing and coatings to compliment the machine shop offerings, which specialises in CNC turning, milling and Metal Spraying. The company’s market niche is to supply customers with a quality solution within a quick turnaround timeframe.

The company is in the process of carrying out a modernising internal restructure, and are also currently pursuing the acquisition of ISO accreditation, whilst planning an expansion and move to a larger premises. Managing director Mike Church commented: “This is a really exciting time for the company, we plan to modernise the business and bring us in line with the stringent requirements of the energy sector related companies. Coupled that with our good reputation and over 30 years of trading and we

will have a winning formula that should see the company go from strength to strength.”

If you have a project you would like to discuss, please contact Mike Church on 01493 858715 alternatively e-mail info@churchengineering. co.uk or visit us at www.churchengineering.co.uk

YOUR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SPECIALIST

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– Offices ranging from 229 sq ft – 1898 sq ft (21.3m² – 176.3m²) CONTACT US:

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01362 656293 / 656210 commercial.property@breckland.gov.uk www.breckland.gov.uk/businessproperty

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Spread the word with Promotion.

 

There’s a new name on the Norfolk marketing map in the form of PRomotion!

    

Founded in 2004 by journalist and PR consultant Rob Wilkinson, PRomotion moved to Feltwell in West Norfolk from Yorkshire last year and is already making a splash with clients across the East Anglia region.

 

“The rapid growth in online activity means that PR content offers a myriad of benefits from SEO to social media. PRomotion is very much at the cutting edge of these developments using a network of high quality, self employed marketing consultants.

“Norfolk boasts a vibrant and creative business community and it’s great to be here!” exclaimed Rob, a former stand up comedian, WBA supporter and keen rugby union player..although only occasionally these days!

“We deliver cost effective PR and marketing services and training for SMEs and start ups looking to make their mark with press releases, newsletters, case studies, features, sponsorship and the full range of online content.

“For example we currently manage the Twitter and blogging presence for eight different companies with more expressing an interest.

“We also have a strong belief in CSR and the importance of businesses supporting their local community,” added Rob who carried out the PR for the Great Britain Special Olympics teams at the 2007 and 2011 World Games in Shanghai and Athens respectively and also delivers media training for the England Rugby League squads.



 

  

  

Plans are already afoot to deliver a number of PR workshops across the region and PRomotion is offering Norfolk Chamber members the chance for a free trial of PR activity throughout June and July.

For more details contact Rob on 01842 827044 or by email rob@getpromotion.co.uk

   

MAY/JUNE 2013

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NORFOLK VOICE

Norfolk Chamber – one year on.

by Caroline Williams, CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.

Website Traffic

About 18 months ago I was convinced that social media was a powerful communication channel which the Norfolk Chamber needed to embrace and the key to its success was through an effective website.

The great part of being a membership organisation is that I have an enormous wealth of expertise to call on. I had definite ideas as to what I needed from a new website and roughly what I needed it to look like.

Thank goodness it was explained to me that I was missing a key step which necessitated a whole day with my team, facilitated by Duncan at Yodelay, to really understand who the website was aimed at and what they would expect from the site. Not rocket science, but one of the most effective days I have ever spent. The findings in the form of a site plan were then sanity checked with the Norfolk Chamber Board which was able to re-emphasise what as businesses they would expect and need from the site.

A key point which emerged was that this was not a site for the Chamber to sell itself but a site for Chamber members to use to promote themselves, share knowledge and as a result

Referrals back to website from

Visits

36,360

213 56,108

Unique Visits

18,458

1072

200 28,854

Page Views

135,583

1949

164 256,475

2381

1 April 2011 – 31 March 2012

1 April 2012 – 31 March 2013

exchange best practise and do business. The more the site was used by Chamber members the more the Chamber itself would be positively promoted.

I personally am chuffed to bits as our members have really embraced the site and over 300 members add content to the site on a regular basis keeping it new and relevant. Visits to the website have increased by 20k and most significant I feel is that the referrals from social media channels back to the website have increased beyond all recognition. In addition, the Chamber has increased its delegates across its events and membership numbers are rising significantly. We are looking forward to what the Chamber network can achieve over the next 12 months.

We are not designers, so our next step was for Bobby at The Click to overlay his creativity onto the site plan. Once the initial creative boards were done, we brought in Peter from City College, who was tasked with building the site, and Duncan, to ensure that all aspects of the site would work for the benefit of the users and as a Chamber we could manage it effectively and efficiently. As we had been clear from the beginning what we wanted to achieve, not a lot of horse trading was needed and the site was designed, built and sanity checked with the minimum amount of changes.

Above are a few of the stats we use to monitor our progress. If you have any ideas how we can make the site www.norfolkchamber.co.uk even more useful to you please do let us know.

The site we created last April has evolved and we have plans for the future but, to date as a Chamber network, how have we done?

What can you offer?.

What can you offer for other Chamber Members?

Don’t forget, as a Norfolk Chamber Member you have access to promote your business by offering exclusive deals or discounts to other Chamber members via our website. This really is a good way to promote your business to other members and even their staff. For more information please call the membership team on 01603 625977

Do you also have some news you want to share?

If you’re reading the news articles in Norfolk Voice and want to share your own news, then

why not upload it to our website today? If you’re a Norfolk Chamber Member you can upload your news for free on the Chamber website at any time and as often as you like. Once uploaded it will then be visible on our homepage plus then sent out via our social media channels to over 5000+ local businesses to give it as much visibility as possible. For more information please call the membership team on 01603 625977

Share best practice and blog your knowledge If you have some knowledge to share on any areas of business or industry then if you’re a Norfolk Chamber Member you can upload your Knowledge Blogs with your photo on the

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Chamber website. Give someone some Top Tips or a ‘How To’ guide on topics such as HR, Marketing or even some industry knowledge that will be useful for other Norfolk businesses.

Promoted also via our social media channels it is a fantastic opportunity to grow your personal professional profile and credibility.

Are you making use of the Norfolk Chamber Logo?

As a Member of the Norfolk Chamber you can apply to have a copy of our logo for use on your own website and letterheads. For more information please call the membership team on 01603 625977

CHAMBER NEWS

The April 2013 Norfolk Chamber Board of Directors meeting highlighted the success the Chamber has achieved over the last year. Below are just a few of the positive and exciting things we have been up to.

Ian Hacon, Vice President said: “It is great to hear how engaged our members are with the Chamber and I am really looking forward to even better results in 2013/2014.”

Events

Membership

23%

189 new Chamber in 2012/2013

Members recruited

9%

10%

increase in delegates attending Chamber events

2011/2012 = 2,756

International

2012/2013 = 3,393

Sustainability 2012 had over 230 attendees 2013 Chamber Bowling Night was a sell out with 140+ people attending Opportunities 2013 had the highest footfall in the last 2 years with 450+ attendees

Below are just a few of the comments received from delegates following the events: John Hall, McDonald Hall Ltd “This was my first ever Chamber event, which I found extremely useful for networking opportunities; especially as I am new to the Norwich Business scene. I found the breakout sessions very good and an opportunity to input into the event.”

Peter Treglown, Four Agency “The chamber MP’s event provides relevant and thought-provoking content from some of the County’s top influencers. It is a superb community to meet and speak to our MP’s on topics related to business in Norfolk and to hear firsthand about current government initiatives.

Excellently organised, it certainly stands out as one of the ‘must attend’ events in the Norfolk business calendar.”

Glenn Hoy, Best Bar None Norwich “This was my first MP event- it will not be my last.

Plus this was my first Chamber event for several years, the changes at the Chamber are very positive. I intend to become an active member and advocate for the Chamber.“

2011/2012 = 98

105%

overall increase in Membership

2011/2012 = 712

2011/2012 = 20

2012/2013 = 783

66%

62%

222%

2012/2013 = 5

62 Start-Up members have joined the

2012/2013 = 107

increase in the number of translations processed 2012/2013 = 41

increase in the number of international training courses

2011/2012 = 8

increase in Gold Patronage

2011/2012 = 3

increase in documentation for Members

2011/2012 = 40

2012/2013 = 13 increase in the number of delegates at international events 2012/2013 = 129

Chamber in 2012/2013 Over the last year the top 10 destinations for Norfolk Exporters (outside of the EC) have been:

What did Chamber members say about being part of the Norfolk Chamber?

Gemma Pendleton, Marketing Manager Steels Law “Steeles Law uses the Member News facility on the Norfolk Chamber website on a regular basis.

It is an excellent way to broadcast your news, articles and details of events to fellow members of the local business community, both through the website itself and Twitter. We now consider it an essential part of our digital communications strategy.”

Mark Ellaway, Director, Bigfork “Since becoming members of the Chamber, we have successfully raised awareness of our digital marketing services and gained new clients. Their events are always well attended, networking “hotbeds” and their website allows you to post your news, views and articles. The Chamber team have always been very helpful and I would recommend Chamber membership to any business in Norfolk.”

United Arab Emirates (UAE) • Saudi Arabia Qatar • India • China • Eqypt New Zealand • Russia • Algeria • Kuwait

Below are just a few of the comments received from some of the delegates at International events: Spotlight on Angola “The event was a great success, and showed the enormous interest being shown in a country with huge opportunities.”

John Woodruffe, Head of UKTI based in Angola Spotlight on Turkey “I really enjoyed it. The insight into the “softer”, cultural issues around doing business in Turkey, were particularly interesting.”

Andrew Robinson, PKF (UK) LLP Spotlight on Emerging Europe “Well done – good knowledgeable speakers.

Factual and most of all, informative.”

Peter Sturman, HSBC

MAY/JUNE 2013

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NORFOLK VOICE

Making sure our young people have the right facts.

by Caroline Williams, CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.

The current activity around apprenticeships and getting our young people into work is very welcome and totally supported by Norfolk Chamber. However, the almost deathly silence relating to careers advice, or Information Advice and Guidance (IAG) in modern jargon, is not at all welcome.

The Government has decided that it is the schools/colleges’ responsibility to provide IAG to its pupils, but it is with no extra resource and on the back of the removal of any support for education/business partnerships. The assumption seems to be that the schools should be ready and able to take up this mantle and provide our young people with the knowledge and inspiration needed to assist them to make the right decisions about their future careers.

On paper this may look fine, but in practice it is far from fine. I recently spoke at a conference to those responsible for delivering careers advice and IAG across Norfolk. They were eager for information and to do the very best for their

left to right: Katie Downes, Chamber Events Assistant Apprentice; Molly Brown, Repro Arts; Alasdair McKenzie, Novagraaf; Chamber CEO Caroline Williams; and Daniel Williams, Big C.

students, but only a small percentage had the knowledge about the local labour market and the career paths/qualifications needed to take advantage of the vast opportunities being created across Norfolk now and in the future.

The relationship between the subject teachers and those tasked with this very important role within a school, academy or college seems patchy.

The business community is able and willing to put time and resource into ensuring that our young people are not only ready for the world of work but feel motivated and inspired by the exciting options on their doorstep.

Although Norfolk businesses are ready for action, we cannot do anything constructive without the support from our schools, academies and colleges at the highest level, including Principals and Governors.

Although now working within a competitive environment, our schools, academies and colleges need to share best practice and develop a model of Careers/IAG which will ensure that all our young people are given the knowledge they need to make the right choices early enough, starting at primary school, and be motivated to achieve those very important GCSE grades.

Real life examples from across sectors need to be introduced within the curriculum. The tired old case studies trotted out year on year need to be a thing of the past and local case studies need to be used to bring to life the sectors and businesses where our young people can find employment when they leave academia.

The business community would be delighted to be involved in making these actions a reality.

It is essential that our young people receive the information they need to inspire, motivate and help them choose the right path, with support and help of the whole community, thus making the need for campaigns like Jobs for Norwich a thing of the past.

The IAG Careers Conference on 5 March

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

The Norfolk economy needs our young people to make the right decisions and be excited about the opportunities open to them across all types of businesses and sectors in Norfolk, so let’s work together to make it happen.

CHAMBER NEWS

Norwich does Business over buzzing breakfast.

There was a great atmosphere as 80 Norfolk Chamber members from various local businesses got together in Norwich to network and do business over breakfast, on 26 February.

The speakers Peter Mitchell, Group Managing Director, Jarrold & Sons Ltd, and Andrew Dernie, Head of Demand, Aviva Group Shared Services, spoke about an important local project for Norwich, the Norwich Business Improvement District (BID).

Peter Mitchell is Chair of the Norwich BID. He spoke about the Business Improvement District which will help Norwich businesses in a variety of ways. Businesses such as the Library Restaurant where the breakfast was held will gain a great deal from the plans which include promoting the city and improving services.

Andrew Dernie is a Board Member of the Norwich BID and a member of the Norwich Chamber Council. He talked about how

they can give Norwich a stronger voice by local businesses working together to make a difference to key strategic plans.

After the speakers the delegates had a chance to 'safari network' and move round the tables to meet new people and do business and many members came away with some new contacts.

Paul Youngs, Print Box Print Management, said, "What a great buzz at The Library. I came away with some very useful contacts and had an excellent breakfast too!"

Carl Byrne, from By Design, said, “The Chamber Breakfast at the Library in Norwich went really well, there seemed to be a very proactive buzz in the air and it was packed. I met some interesting people and will definitely do it again.”

At the breakfast the Norfolk Chamber also continued this year’s theme of Unlocking Potential in Norfolk’s Young People. Apprentices from Novagraaf, Repro Arts and Zing Insights came along to the breakfast to get a taste of what networking is all about.

The Chamber Breakfast at the Library in Norwich went really well, there seemed to be a very proactive buzz in the air and it was packed.

Carl Byrne

By Design

Big C were also there as the featured event charity and Daniel Williams, Chief Executive, told the delegates about the important work that they do locally.

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NORFOLK VOICE

CHAMBER NEWS

Lots of Opportunities to do business.

The Norfolk Chamber’s Opportunities 2013 event was an all-round success for buyers, suppliers, exhibitors and delegates.

The media sponsor for the event was Archant and the successful event had a packed schedule.

The exhibition was lively with some interactive and eye-catching stands. The best stand award, chosen by Andrew Merricks, Chair of Trustees from Nelson’s Journey – the featured event charity – was awarded to Image Display for their ‘Market Stall’ stand inspired by fruitful ways to showcase your business in the marketplace.

Technology Zone sponsors OneStream had the Nokia bus outside so delegates could check out the latest handsets, and Hospitality & Leisure Zone sponsors Eaton Vale Activity Centre teamed up with Moco Developments to show effective ways to communicate using mini remote control tanks.

The exhibition had 500 people in attendance and an all-round good atmosphere and there were plenty of ways to do business.

The Meet the Buyer went down a storm with more buyers and suppliers than ever before and by the end of the day all of the 800 appointments with the 40 buyers were fully booked.

There was also three great workshops from Mark Rhodes, Rhodes2Success on Networking so easy anyone can do it, Mike Jones, Modello on Broadband : It’s more than just speed which was sponsored by BT Business and David Tillyer, 101Smart Limited, on How to get results from email marketing.

The networking workshop came in particularly useful for those that attended Networking United, which was a unique event bringing Norfolk’s networking organisations together to network under one roof.

Overall it was a great day. Here is some feedback from the event: “Opportunities 2013; a stunning event for Green Duck Recycling with a good number of meetings booked for the coming week. Norfolk is moving in the right direction. Green Duck Recycling had a great deal of success, not only with the Meet the Buyer event but with more interest on our stand.” David Palmer, Green Duck Limited.

“We had a really good day at the Chamber event; we met with clients and it gave us the opportunity to speak to businesses who were interested in our services. Great to be involved, our best show yet!” Holly Stibbon, 101Smart Limited.

The buyers found it to be a really useful day.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

“A really lively and vibrant event which gave lots of contact with energetic SME suppliers.

It gave us the opportunity to both broaden our supply base and encourage local supplier development.” Vincent Hunt, South Norfolk District Council.

“Well presented, certainly a powerful business tool. Everything is up for negotiation!”

Hellen Hetherington, Anglia Farmers.

“This was a very helpful event in which I saw suppliers locally who we were not aware of and would not necessarily seen or realised we needed to see had they contacted us cold” Andrew Brookes, Adnams Plc. Now taking bookings for the next business to business exhibition, which will be held on October 17, 2013.

CHAMBER EVENTS

Diary Dates.

May

Heathrow Airport - One Hub or None?

Lord Green Business Lunch (Rescheduled from 25th March)

Sustainability 2013

WHERE: Caistor Hall Hotel, Norwich

WHERE: Sprowston Manor, Norwich

WHERE: John Innes Centre, Norwich

WHEN: 7 June, 07:30-09:45am

WHEN: 11 July 12:00-14:30

WHAT’S IT ABOUT: A chance to discuss the aviation capacity debate at a local and national level following recent research indicating the lack of capacity at Heathrow was costing the UK up to £14bn a year in lost trade. Hear local businesses’ viewpoints and national perspectives over breakfast. Open to all

WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Join the Norfolk Chamber and Lord Green, Minister of State for Trade & Investment for a Business lunch covering essential international trade issues for Norfolk Businesses.

Sponsored by Barclays, PwC and Sprowston Manor. Member only event.

WHEN: 9 May 08:00-13:00 WHAT’S IT ABOUT: This dynamic, half-day, freeto-attend conference will highlight innovative and entrepreneurial business responses to the challenges of achieving sustainable growth and show how to take advantage of expanding new markets. Presenting a programme of national and local expert speakers who will share their knowledge and expertise. Sponsored by Adapt and Green Economy Pathfinder, supported

by BiTC and Lloyds TSB. Exhibition opportunities available. Open to all businesses.

Stop the Press: Breakfast News; A West Norfolk Business Breakfast WHERE: Knight’s Hill Hotel, King’s Lynn WHEN: 14 May 07:30-09:30 WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Meet the new Editor of the Lynn News, Nick Woodhead, and hear his vision for the future of the publication over a delicious breakfast and network with other Norfolk Chamber members. Member only event.

businesses by invitation.

Print isn’t Dead: A Norwich Business Special Breakfast WHERE: Norwich City Football Club

save the date Autumn B2B Thursday 17 October, 2013.

WHEN: 21 June 07:30-09:30 WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Join the Norfolk Chamber for a morning of fantastic networking opportunities over a tasty breakfast and meet other local businesses. Hear from Bob Crawley, Publishing Director at Archant, about the power of PR for your business. Member only event.

Streamlining Employment: HR Forum WHERE: Dunston Hall Hotel WHEN: 25 June 14:00-17:00

June Meet the Chamber WHERE: The Library Restaurant, Norwich WHEN: 6 June 15:30-17:30 WHAT’S IT ABOUT: This free, informal event is a great opportunity to meet the team and network with some other businesses over a coffee. You will be able to find out about how the Norfolk Chamber can help you grow and develop your business in 2013 and beyond.

Open to all businesses.

Talk, Taste & Tapas: After Hours WHERE: The Library Restaurant, Norwich WHEN: 6 June 17:30-20:00 WHAT’S IT ABOUT: For those who prefer early evening networking, our new informal After Hours series starts with Talk, Taste & Tapas. An event with a Spanish twist will start with a welcome drink, followed by tasty tapas, then it’s into a fun group networking activity to ensure you make those important contacts. Member only event.

WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Join the Norfolk Chamber and your expert hosts from Howes Percival LLP for this HR Forum which will focus on recent case law developments and proposed legislative changes, providing a practical insight and identifying how these issues will impact on employers. Open to all businesses.

July Stars and Stripes Summer Social WHERE: Norwich WHEN: 4 July 17:30-20:00 WHAT’S IT ABOUT:Join the Norfolk Chamber on the 4 July for our ‘All American’ Independence Day themed Stars & Stripes Summer Social! The perfect team building event with an American twist followed by a BBQ from the U S of A, games, fun and relaxed networking. Open to all businesses.

MAY/JUNE 2013

PAGE43

NORFOLK VOICE

MEMBERS NEWS

Businesses raise money at Charity Quiz Night.

Pure Resourcing Solutions (Pure) in Norwich hosted a fun-packed annual charity quiz night at the De Vere Dunston Hall Hotel, raising £1,897 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

Forty teams from local businesses including Heinz, Lovewell Blake LLP and Anglian Farmers came along for the evening of friendly rivalry which was organised by Pure - one of the leading recruitment consultancy businesses in the East of England.

It was the ‘Amnesiacs’ from Norfolk Community Health and Care that claimed the quiz crown, with each lucky team member winning a bottle of champagne. A raffle also proved popular with superb prizes including a round of golf for four people at Dunston Hall Golf Club, champagne and £100 of Next vouchers.

Gill Buchanan, Director of Pure, said: “The evening’s success surpassed our expectations and I’d like to thank all of the businesses that contributed to the event. Our 10-year partnership with EACH is very important to us

The winning ‘Amnesiacs’ team from Norfolk Community Health and Care

and we are proud to be supporting seriously ill children and their families in the communities where Pure is working.”

Gary Cook, Norfolk Fundraiser for EACH, added: “On behalf of everyone at the charity, I’d like to thank the quiz teams and Pure for raising funds to provide care and support to local life-threatened children and their families.

Fundraising like this enables us to deliver a range of services including short-break care, specialist therapies, end of life care and bereavement support.”

The quiz brings the total that Pure has now raised for EACH in the last decade to more than £49,000. Also, in January staff from the company’s Norwich office volunteered at the Quidenham hospice.

To find out more about Pure’s fundraising activity, contact Anna Hill, Marketing Manager on: 01223 209888 or Anna.Hill@prs.uk.com.

Proserv seals North Sea contract wins.

Rapidly-evolving energy production technology services company Proserv has secured two major contract wins worth in excess of £15 million for work in the North Sea, further strengthening the company’s market-leading position in the subsea controls and communications field.

The first deal is with TAQA for the control of subsea wells approximately 16.5km from the Tern platform in the Cladhan field. Proserv will implement a system to control three subsea wells as part of a significant development project for the company. Using Proserv’s proprietary Open Communications Controller (OCC) technology, the system will provide a high-speed network capable of communication speeds up to 1.3Mbps.

The second contract award is with another leading operator and also involves work to control the subsea wells. Proserv will use a cutting-edge system, which will control a number

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

of wells and manifolds. This features a fibre-optic communications system using Proserv’s Open Communications Hub (OCH) technology for fully transparent communications and high-speed data monitoring from the subsea multi-phase flow meters and control modules.

Proserv’s facility in Great Yarmouth will be the focal point for both contracts with all the manufacturing work taking place in the Norfolk town.

TAKE A BREAK

Ridley Pinstripe.

Sudoku May-June Mar-Apr

It’s 9.15am on a Tuesday at the offices of Barking, Madd and Madd and the atmosphere is somewhat lethargic - far too near home time for anyone to be particularly motivated.

However, all that changed when Wally ‘Wally’ Walters strode into the Stock Control Department. Well, I say strode, dragged himself painfully would be a more accurate description.

You see, as Head of Sundries, he tends to get the jobs that no one else wants to do with the result that he’s the hardest working member of staff, went grey at twenty seven, already has arthritis in both knees and looks more careworn every time you see him. He even managed to cadge himself a bus pass on his thirtieth birthday after an unfortunate phlegm-based incident.

Answers in the next edition

This time, though, as he hobbled across the room, wheezing slightly, he looked like he was enjoying himself.

He waved a piece of paper in the air and announced: “I need a volunteer for an exciting project. A chance to go up in everyone’s estimation.”

Sudoku Answers Jan-Feb Mar-Apr

Noticing that within seconds, everyone had suddenly become motivated and that I was the only person left in the room, I grasped the nettle of opportunity.

Cartoons

‘What do you want doing, Wal?’ I asked, ever keen for career advancement.

‘The bosses have decided that they want to run something up the flagpole, Ridley.’

Now, I’ve spent enough time running things up the flagpole until they turn frothy before whistling their way past the graveyard to know that such statements are cobblers and totally meaningless so I responded in the time-honoured manner.

“I guess we need to prise open the envelope on this one,” I said, nodding wisely.

‘What envelope?” He looked baffled. “I’m talking about flagpoles, son. The string is knackered and we need someone to climb up and tie the new flag on.”

It was then that I realised he was holding something which revealed itself as a black and white flag bearing the company logo. Crossed widgets on a bed of unpaid invoices.

And which is why twenty minutes later I found myself half way up the flagpole in front of the building, watched through the office windows by staff taking bets on when I would fall and how many bones I would break.

Now, I’ve never been good at heights, I think it’s why I never advanced beyond Assistant to the Assistant (Stationery Procurement (Marker Pens), so I do not mind admitting that I was terrified.

Glancing back at the building, though, I found myself inspired as I noticed that the managing director had woken up and was watching me intently (it was only later that I found out he had a fiver on me falling 26 feet and breaking nine ribs - 45-1 apparently).

“I’m no expert, I think it’s some of cyber attack.”

“I have a note but from my doctor.

I’m kind allergic to criticism.”

Determined to show him that I could climb the greasy pole, as it were, I kept going and triumphantly secured the flag before sliding down to a chorus of cheers from my colleagues.

Oh, and an email from the MD telling me that the blessed thing is upside down and that he’s docking a fiver from my wages unless I break something this time.

Ridley

“I like to important, begin everywrite performance with a line “If it’s really URGENT review in the subject compliment.

I lookitgood today!” and I’ll be sure Boy, to ignore immediately!”

MAY/JUNE 2013

PAGE45

NORFOLK VOICE

The East Anglia Commercial Skills Centre Achieving business success through the development of commercial skills

l l l l

Procurement Development Negotiation Skills Sales Success CIPS Professional Diploma

Our experienced team provide practical training and advice to improve your performance Call to discuss your needs

01603 401 363

Email: info@anglia-business-academy.co.uk www.anglia-business-academy.co.uk

Training locations in Norwich, Cambridge, and Bury St Edmunds

This summer NILE is expecting to welcome over 1000 language, subject and vocational teachers from all over the world to Norwich.

We are a team of reliable, professional and proactive accountants, who are dedicated to providing a friendly and efficient service.

We save you time We save you money We provide a continuous working relationship tailored to your individual needs.

How could you and your business beneďŹ t from meeting them?

We provide the following services; Accounting l Auditing l Book-keeping l Payroll l

l VAT Taxation l Business Support l Specialist Services l

Contact Us Today For Your Free Initial Consultation

Contact our Assistant Director, Sarah Mount, at sarah@nile-elt.com or call 01603 664473 to discuss how your business and NILE could work together next year.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

19 King Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1HB T: 01553 764711 F: 01553 767152

E: info@hayhow.com www.hayhow.com

NEW MEMBERS

New Members.

ABC Food Safety Ltd

Charles Stenner Cards

01603 274486

01603 611481

www.abcfoodsafety.co.uk Training Providers/Services

www.charlesstennercards.co.uk Printers

Access Inspection Development Ltd

East Anglian Motor Auctions (Norwich) Limited

Midcontinent (Great Yarmouth) Ltd

01493 655269 www.midcontinent.co.uk Offshore Services

01953 859180

07789 375949

www.aidropeaccess.com Offshore Services

www.eama-norwich.co.uk Motor Vehicle Dealers/Leasing

www.norfolkbrides.co.uk/ Events Management

01603 480700 www.arthur-brett.com Furniture Manufacturers/Suppliers (inc office)

ASCO UK Fuel & Lubricants UK Ltd

01493 848081 www.ascoworld.com Oil and Gas

Barkley Bookkeeping

01603 251789 www.barkleybookkeeping.co.uk Bookkeeping

Big Sky Additions

01603 516230/254 www.bigskyadditions.co.uk Consultants (Business/Management)

Cabins & Containers

01493 658199 www.cabinsandcontainers.co.uk Cabins & Containers

First Self Drive

01603 624275 www.firstselfdrive.co.uk Transport

Gail Mayhew - Planning Consultant

01603 765763 Planning Consultant

Gladstone Coaching And Development

01263 862307 www.gladstonecoaching.co.uk Coaching & Mentoring

www.hollyandbeau.com Clothing

07525 173151 www.centurytraining.co.uk Training Providers/Services

01493 202210 www.nr30investments.co.uk Investments

NUA Business Limited

01603 610561 www.nuca.ac.uk Education

01328 316087 www.js-creative.com Graphic Design

Kier Construction www.kier.co.uk Construction (General)

www.rmpsiteengineering.co.uk Engineering

01603 767258 www.rodneybarrett.co.uk Investment

Sewell Park College

01603 411721 www.sewellpark.com Education

Simtra Limited

01359 243575 www.simtra.co.uk Communications

Tank Replacement Services Ltd

Peril Solutions Ltd

01603 783199 www.perilsolutions.com Cleaning Services (Comm/Indus/inc window cleaning)

01362 687144 www.tankreplacement.co.uk Heating/Plumbing Suppliers

TaxAssist Direct Ltd

01603 611811

Pete Goodrum

075022 56752 www.petegoodrum.com Public Relations

www.taxassist.co.uk Financial Services (Accountants)

TEN Creative

JS Creative

01603 412131 Century Training Academy Ltd

NR30 Investments Limited

Holly and Beau Ltd

01328 830820

01603 664955

Rodney Barrett

Norfolk Brides

01953 454383

Arthur Brett & Sons Ltd

RMP Site Engineering Ltd

01603 756163

PRomotion

01842 827044 www.getpromotion.co.uk Public Relations

www.tencreative.co.uk Marketing Services

The Pennoyer Centre

R & C Church Engineering Ltd

01493 858715 www.churchengineering.co.uk Engineering

01379 676660 www.pennoyers.org.uk Venues/Conference & Function Rooms/Banqueting

Livelink Resource

01603 513111 www.livelinkresource.co.uk Call Centre

MAY/JUNE 2013

PAGE47

NORFOLK VOICE

Founded in 1987, The Personnel People is one of Norwich’s most established independent recruitment consultancies.

insurance specialists

insurance specialists

We are constantly striving to move with the times and pride ourselves on providing our clients with top quality personnel that reflect the qualities we adhere to – flexibility, responsiveness and capability.

• COMMERCIAL Supplying all office personnel from entry level through to senior management.

• DRIVING Supplying all classes of drivers including Forklift & mates/porters.

1958

1958value 2008

2008

transpare integrity

valu

COMMERCIAL | LIABILITY | FREIGHT | HAULAGE | CONSTRUCTION | MOTOR TRADE | PERSONAL

We provide full coverage throughout East Anglia and offer a service that is as individual as each client or candidate that we deal with.

Supplying permanent, contract and temporary staff across:

50 Years transparency integrity

50 Years

• CATERING & CLEANING All levels of catering staff, hospitality/events & cleaning (including industrial) provided.

• INDUSTRIAL Recruiting Skilled & Unskilled labour for Production, Manufacturing, Warehouse & Distribution.

Local Insurance Brokers offering a personal service to local businesses - large or small Free Advice & Consultation For All Types of Business Including

• T.E.C Technical, Engineering & Construction staff.

Restaurants Shops n Guesthouses n Hotels

For full details on our services and the vacancies we haveavailable please visit us at:

Offices Liabilities n Tradesmen n Motor Trade

Property Owners Fleets n Manufacturers

n

n

n

n

n

n

Helping Local Business Since 1958

www.personnelpeople.co.uk

Authorised & Regulated By The Financial Services Authority

Tel: 01603 761717 Email: norwich@personnelpeople.co.uk 12 All Saints Green, Norwich Norfolk NR1 3NA

01263 733313

0800 731 2449

38 Red Lion Street, Aylsham NR11 6ER

enquiries@fcgardner.co.uk | www.fcgardner.co.uk

F. C. Gardner & Co. 38 Red Lion Street, Aylsham, Norwich, Norfolk NR11 6ER

Proprietor: John Ennals Consultant: Paul Graham

Tel: 01263 733313 Fax: 01263 733394

Email: enquiries@fcgardner.co.uk F. C. Gardner Web: & Co. www.fcgardner.co.uk 38 Red Lion Street, Aylsham, Norwich, Norfolk Proprietor: John Ennals Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) 307624

Tel: 01263 733313 Fax: 0126 Email: enquiries@fcgardner.co.uk Web: www.fcga

Consultant: Paul Graham

Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) 307624 FCG6829 - letterhead v1 REPRO.indd 1

Key Person Cover

Shareholder/ Partnership Protection

Key Person protection gives your business financial strength to carry on if you lose a vital employee due to death, critical illness, or disability. Losing someone in your firm who is vital to both profitability and continued success could be disastrous.

Boswell Financial Services helps firms which might lose customers and bank support as a result of death or long-term absence, to provide financial breathing space. Other risks include lost productivity, as well as costs and time involved in recruiting and training a replacement.

Ask us to advise the appropriate levels of cover your business requires.

01603 626155

Carrow Hill, Norwich, NR1 2AH

Losing business owners/directors/partners can also have a major impact on your business.

Using Shareholder/Partnership protection helps to ensure continued control for the remaining owners.

Boswell Financial Services’ Director Martin Hewetson says the right cover will ensure that remaining shareholders have funds in place to purchase the shares from the deceased’s estate.

Using this cover means that the estate of the deceased gets fair payment for their shares, and control of the firm is kept within the business.

We work closely with your legal team to help draw up the necessary legal agreement and trusts. Call us to discuss how we can help you.

www.boswellfinancialservices.co.uk

enquiries@boswellfinancialservices.co.uk

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

09/11/2012 10:03:42

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A WEEK IN THE LIFE OF

A week in the Life of...

Julie Austin International Services and Documentation Co-ordinator Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

Monday Started with Monday morning meeting where we go through things that happened in previous week and what will be happening in the coming week.

Put together interview packs for Administrator role. The rest of the day was taken up checking and stamping Export Documentation.

Tuesday Busy day today catching up on HR jobs and quality procedures.

Undertook successful quality audits with Nova Fairbank, Executive Assistant to CEO. Attended the last in the International Trade Spotlight series on Emerging Europe, which was a very well attended and informative event.

Translation and Interpreter Service.

The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce translation service can help you communicate effectively with your overseas clients in their native languages.

Working with our comprehensive database of highly qualified native speaker translators, we can ensure that your documents are translated swiftly and accurately.

Interpreters can be arranged for any events, meetings or conference calls that you may have. Whatever your translation needs, we can meet your requirements and take a load off your mind. Here are some of the latest comments made by customers of this particular service: “Many thanks, good job!”

John Marshall, Xport Group “We would like to thank you for the urgent translation that you arranged for us. It was a real help having this back the following day - I know you said it was a quick service but we didn’t realise it would be that quick! Thanks again - much appreciated” Steve Easter, Delta Fire Ltd “Thanks for being so quick which has been of great help to us” Patricia Marcus, KSG They put their trust in us – why don’t you?

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Spent most of my day on Export Documentation.

This included quite a lot of electronic applications processed through the Online System, e-zCert. The rest of the time was spent assisting clients with their international queries.

Split my day between HR and International Trade.

On the HR side second interview packs were put together, agenda created for Staff Meeting and processing staff holiday forms. On the International Trade side it was again processing documents and assisting clients.

Chaired the monthly Staff Meeting. The main discussion was on social media. Discussed and liaised with agencies regarding an Events Coordinator role we have available in the Chamber.

Second interviews were also held for the Administrator role. A very busy but productive week.

e-zCert eXpress.

What is e-zCert eXpress? e-zCert eXpress is an online service delivered by Norfolk Chamber of Commerce allowing exporting companies to apply and receive electronic export documentation.

What are the benefits?

Everything from applying for the documents to the Chamber stamping is all completed online within minutes. Any inaccuracies can quickly and easily be rectified rather than going backwards and forwards by post.

The system saves hours and even days for time-pressed exporters and has been warmly welcomed across the UK n SPEED: By forwarding your export documents to Norfolk Chamber electronically, you can have them checked, certified and returned to you for printing at your premises. Think of the time and cost saved by using this service! Think of the ability to move goods faster! n SERVICE: A faster service from Norfolk Chamber creates efficiency for you by freeing up staff normally used for delivery and collection of documents. Think of the ability to provide a better service to your client! n SIMPLICITY: Forwarding and receiving documents electronically and printing them off at your own premises is quick and easy—could you have it any simpler? n SECURITY: You have absolute security in the processing of documents. Think of the time and costs saved by not having to use expensive couriers. You can apply for all of the following documents on e-zCert eXpress: EC Certificates of Origin, Invoices, EUR1s, ATRs, Health Certificates, Free Sale Certificates and much more...

For more information, please contact the International Trade Team.

PAGE49

PAGE TITLEVOICE NORFOLK

The last word.

Name: Angela Pilkington Company: P&K Training Job title: Owner Biog: P&K Training Services is an independent training company owned by Angela Pilkington and is based in an 18th century building near King’s Lynn town centre.

Angela had previously worked for a multinational insurance company and felt she lacked a challenge, so 18 years ago decided to forge a new career in training.

She undertook marketing and management training and then qualified as a teacher and internal verifier for adult education through Norwich City College and became a parttime tutor for them. Following this she then held the position of area commercial training manager for one of the leading charities before joining P & K as manager. With her experience she was able to build the business and because she enjoyed the work so much, bought it from the previous owners 5 years ago.

As well as being involved with the local Chamber and taking an interest in the businesses and activities of King’s Lynn, she arranges the day-to-day running of P&K and co-ordinates a team of 15 very experienced casual trainers who teach First Aid at Work, Paediatric First Aid, First Aid for Sports, H&S, Food Hygiene, Moving & Handling, Teaching Skills etc.

During the race season, Angela works as one of the Snetterton Medical Team as ambulance crew. As well as enjoying motor sports the work keeps her skills up to date dealing with real injuries, which in turn enhance the courses P&K offer to people from all areas of commerce and trade. Being an independent company and with the expertise at her fingertips, she can offer a personal touch and tailor courses to customer’s requirements and offer excellent quality at affordable prices. To relax Angela likes to travel, visit the theatre, attend the opera and also enjoys a lively rock concert.

What did you want to be when you were young?

What makes you angry?

Dancer or a Vet.

Idiots!

What could you not live without?

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

Gin & Tonic.

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

Jack Reacher and Daniel Craig – I like a man what does!

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

Sri Lanka – despite nearly losing my life in the tsunami would like to live there, it’s like stepping back in time 20 years or more.

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

Act on gut instinct - don’t be dissuaded by others.

Lottery ticket - it could benefit me and lots of others.

If you could come back as an animal in your next life, what would it be and why?

What is the best thing about Norfolk?

A cat – very independent and it pleases itself where it settles.

Largely unspoilt – miles of beaches and national trust land.

What is, in your opinion, the greatest invention ever?

Electricity – especially for the hair dryer and tongs.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

The way your business communicates is changing We can help it change for the better Find out how at The Royal Norfolk Show 26th - 27th June 2013

Avenue 11 Stand 307

www.comm-tech.co.uk/RNS

01603 518 518| enquiries@comm-tech.co.uk |

twitter.com/comm_tech

Communications Centre | 33 King Street | Norwich | Norfolk | NR1 1PD