Norfolk Voice 21

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Why buying local makes sense Big Interview

Cover Feature

Science Park ideally placed to take advantage of opportunities

LEPs begin to make a difference

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce MARCH APRIL 2014

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IS YOUR DATA IMPORTANT TO YOUR BUSINESSTO? IS YOUR DATA IMPORTANT THEN IT’S TIME TO MOVE INTO THE YOUR BUSINESS ?

GATEHOUSE DATA CENTRE IS YOUR DATA IMPORTANT TO THEN IT’S TIME TO MOVE INTO THE YOURGATEHOUSE BUSINESS ?

DATA CENTRE THEN IT’S TIME TO MOVE INTO THE Aƚ ƚŚĞ 'ĂƚĞŚŽƵƐĞ ĂƚĂ ĞŶƚƌĞ LJŽƵ ĐĂŶ ƚĂŬĞ ĂĚǀĂŶƚĂŐĞ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ ĂǁĂƌĚ ǁŝŶŶŝŶŐ ŽůŽĐĂƟŽŶ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ͘ GATEHOUSE DATA CENTRE dŚĞ ĚĂƚĂ ĐĞŶƚƌĞ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƐ LJŽƵ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ƐĞĐƵƌĞ͕ ĞĸĐŝĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ĐŽƐƚ ĞīĞĐƟǀĞ ƉůĂĐĞ ƚŽ ŚŽƵƐĞ LJŽƵƌ ďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ /d ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ͕ ǁŚŝůƐƚ ĂůůŽǁŝŶŐ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƌĞƚĂŝŶ ĐŽŶƚƌŽů ŽǀĞƌ LJŽƵƌ /d ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ͘ Aƚ ƚŚĞ 'ĂƚĞŚŽƵƐĞ ĂƚĂ ĞŶƚƌĞ LJŽƵ ĐĂŶ ƚĂŬĞ ĂĚǀĂŶƚĂŐĞ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ ĂǁĂƌĚ ǁŝŶŶŝŶŐ ŽůŽĐĂƟŽŶ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ͘ dŚĞ ĚĂƚĂ ĐĞŶƚƌĞ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƐ LJŽƵ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ƐĞĐƵƌĞ͕ ĞĸĐŝĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ĐŽƐƚ ĞīĞĐƟǀĞ ƉůĂĐĞ ƚŽ ŚŽƵƐĞ LJŽƵƌ ďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ /d ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ͕ ǁŚŝůƐƚ ĂůůŽǁŝŶŐ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƌĞƚĂŝŶ ĐŽŶƚƌŽů ŽǀĞƌ LJŽƵƌ /d ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ͘ Aƚ ƚŚĞ 'ĂƚĞŚŽƵƐĞ ĂƚĂ ĞŶƚƌĞ LJŽƵ ĐĂŶ ƚĂŬĞ ĂĚǀĂŶƚĂŐĞ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ ĂǁĂƌĚ ǁŝŶŶŝŶŐ ŽůŽĐĂƟŽŶ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ͘ dŚĞ ĚĂƚĂ ĐĞŶƚƌĞ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƐ LJŽƵ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ƐĞĐƵƌĞ͕ ĞĸĐŝĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ĐŽƐƚ ĞīĞĐƟǀĞ ƉůĂĐĞ ƚŽ ŚŽƵƐĞ LJŽƵƌ ďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ /d ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ͕ ǁŚŝůƐƚ ĂůůŽǁŝŶŐ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƌĞƚĂŝŶ ĐŽŶƚƌŽů ŽǀĞƌ LJŽƵƌ /d ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ͘

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0845 251 2255 ŝŶĨŽΛŵŝŐƐŽůǀ͘ĐŽŵ ǁǁǁ͘ŵŝŐƐŽůǀ͘ĐŽŵ 0845 251 2255

CONTENTS

Contents.

03

Welcome/Contents

22 25

Business Support

04 05

Gold Patron News

34 35

Commercial Property

07 09

Members News

40 41

Finance

12 13

Chamber Policy

14 The recent positive economic news has been very welcome, although I have to say the majority of our members that I meet are moving forward with some caution. As Norfolk has less large businesses than other areas we are inclined to be hit less hard in a recession. This can mean though that we do not recover as quickly. The feedback I am getting is that businesses are now starting to recruit again, which is borne out by the drop in unemployment figures, but still are holding back on any major investments or from going into new international markets.

Another positive sign is the increased number of buyers that we have coming to our Meet the Buyer event on 20 March, ready and eager to meet and buy from their local supply chain. This year we have buyers from across the Eastern region and with new software that can match buyer to supplier making each appointment a warm lead.

Read more on page 44.

The NRP highlighted in last month’s Norfolk Voice relating to Agri-tech has some really exciting plans and it is great to hear from Sally Ann Forsyth CEO of the Norwich Research Park as to her plans for the future as our main interview this month. Read more on page 18.

Norfolk has for a long time seemed to be invisible to Westminster but over the last couple of years with the help of the Chambers, our MPs and our LEPs the business case has got through and significant investment in infrastructure in particular is starting to flow into the County.

However, Norfolk’s full business potential is still not recognised by investors, nor as important, our young people. If we are to recruit and retain the best, the business community needs to be much more visible about its plans and its successes. The Norfolk Chamber started its campaign to make Norfolk more visible at our MPs event in February and already an increasing number of good news stories and case studies are coming through but we do need your help.

It is only by working together that we can get the message across that Norfolk is a great place to be in business.

Members News

15 17

International Trade

18 19

The Big Interview

21 28 31

9

Members News Cover Feature

32

Chamber News

36

Knowledge

37

Membership News

42

Apprentice Brokerage Service

43 47

18

Chamber Events

48

Members News

49

Take a Break

50

Members News

52

New Members

53

A Week in The Life Of

54

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

46 PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2384 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING John Neilson, Commercial Director Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2343 email: john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss email:deangriss@btinternet.com E-BOOK www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk/publications

DISCLAIMER Distinctive Publishing or Norfolk Voice cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and Norfolk Voice.

CHAMBER’S GOLD PATRONS

Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE3

NORFOLK VOICE

GOLD PATRON NEWS

Do you know your supply chain?

Partnership works to boost regional economy.

Rail operator, Abellio Greater Anglia and Tourism organisation, Visit East Anglia, have teamed up to offer a comprehensive package of offers in order to drive up visitor numbers to the region and boost the ‘out of season’ tourism economy.

Ian Hacon President of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce CEO - Blue Sky Leisure

The horse meat scare last year turned some of the food industry on its head. The principle reason for this was that businesses had completely lost sight of their supply chain.

Meat can be a highly commoditised product and the drive for price took priority over ensuring the best product. The impact this had on the companies affected was extremely serious and some are still dealing with the aftermath. For us at Blue Sky Leisure, we were unaffected; not by accident, but because we know our supply chain. We have long term relationships with our meat suppliers, almost all of whom are local. For instance, our burger supplier has been with us since the beginning and they source all their beef locally. We meet regularly and they are proud to show us the documentation and traceability. We also have the best food safety systems in house and train our staff beyond legal requirements.

So how is this relevant to you? It’s simple, who knows where the next scandal is coming from. Next week it might be an electronic component that gives you cancer! I urge you all to get to know your supply chain, ask them the question about the origins of their products, their culture, their attitude to product design, safety and sustainability. If you are not happy with the response you should think seriously about a different supplier. Even in today’s technological world, distance can be a real factor in controlling your supply chain. Widgets may be cheaper from China, but can you be confident thy meet all your needs? One way to avoid this is to buy local, you can then easily meet with and inspect your suppliers’ premises.

Responsible suppliers will welcome your visit. Buying local has other benefits such as potentially being more sustainable through less transportation and supporting your local economic area. There are various ways to find great local suppliers available right here at the Chamber, you could; n Attend our B2B in Autumn n Attend our Meet Buyer Events – next event: 20 March 2013 at NCFC, Norwich n Attend our Networking Events n Search our Membership directory

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

The ‘Discover Norfolk by train’ campaign centres around a visitor’s guide produced by the train operator and features a comprehensive package of unique 2for1 offers and discounts secured

by Visit East Anglia for a number of attractions, hotels, museums, tours, theatres, exclusively for rail passengers.

Andrew Camp, Commercial Director of Abellio Greater Anglia said: “With so much of our network extending into Norfolk, by encouraging people to travel by train we can help relieve pressure on local roads and by encouraging people to spend money at their destination we’re hoping to give a much needed boost to the local economy. This is the seventh promotion we’ve launched in partnership with Visit East Anglia and we hope it is as successful as our previous initiatives”.

“Keith Brown, Chief Executive of Visit East Anglia, said: “As a partnership campaign we believe we can offer visitors to Norfolk some fantastic and exclusive deals. With great offers on fares, attractions and hospitality, people can enjoy savings on a top quality day out, just by taking the train.

All offers are available to download and print online at greateranglia.co.uk/ daysout and focus on heritage, culture, shopping and hospitality savings for visitors to Norfolk.

The partnership has also created visitor guides for the Cambridge, Suffolk and Essex Regions.

GOLD PATRON NEWS

Looking to closer relations with China.

Howes Percival’s senior partner, Andrew Barnes visited China with UK Trade & Investment in 2012 and spoke recently at the China Business Forum hosted by the UEA. Here, he sets out his vision for making closer working relations between the Region and China a reality.

When David Cameron visited China in December 2013 he described an “open Britain” as being “the ideal partner for an opening China” and pledged that Britain would act as China’s strongest advocate in the West.

This represented a genuine political will in both China and the UK for the building of a long term relationship between the two Countries.

Naturally, businesses in East Anglia are questioning how they can fit in – and learn more about what is needed in China and how they might play a part in matching that demand.

My view is that although the VIP and trade visits are indispensable, they can never be sufficient on their own to create the perspectives and the depth of relationships that are needed to underpin a really productive, enduring and, vitally, a strategic partnership with China.

To do that, businesses need to be able to gain an accurate and subtle knowledge of China’s cultural tradition and the makeup and complexities of its business organisations.

gather opportunities for businesses in East Anglia, give the Region a voice and attract attention for both exports to China and inward investment by Chinese investors.

If we really can learn to understand China, and learn to understand the future together with China, the businesses and the people of the East of England will be much richer in very many respects, economic and otherwise.

Consequently, I propose the formation of a coordination body to build that awareness and to

Bernard Matthews welcomes new investors.

Bernard Matthews Holdings Ltd has announced that, it successfully completed an investment from Rutland Partners to support the growth and development of the business.

The deal brings the experience of Rutland Partners to the Board and the senior management team, and provides a strong capital injection to enable Bernard Matthews to fund its growth plans and fulfil its business potential.

“We are delighted with the new partnership and warmly welcome Rutland Partners to the business,” said Executive Chairman David Joll.

“It has been well documented that we have been looking into a range of funding options to help develop the business, but we wanted a partner who understood the company and were committed to helping us grow. Rutland Partners

fit this model perfectly, as from the outset they have seen real potential in the business.

“They also share our commitment to the importance of our farming heritage in Norfolk, Suffolk and Lincolnshire, our staff and to the brand, which has always been at the heart of the company.”

David Wingfield, Partner of Rutland, said: “We are excited to be investing in the leading turkey producer in the UK, which has such a widely recognised brand. We have been impressed by the energy and passion of the team at all levels of the business and are looking forward to the prospect of working with them under David’s leadership to enable the business to reach its full potential.”

As part of the new partnership agreement David Joll will remain as Executive Chairman with two members of Rutland Partnership joining the Holdings Board.

Rutland Partners is a leading UK based turnaround and restructuring investor which invests in UK companies to create stability, strategic change and improved performance.

Bernard Matthews is a buyer at Meet the Buyer on 20 March. Full details page 44.

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE5

NORFOLK VOICE

The Reserve Forces are changing.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

It has been widely reported in the National Press that the Government is changing the way the Armed Forces is manned and how it’s personnel will be deployed.

The Reserve Forces will, by 2018, account for one-third of our Armed Forces and this article gives an insight into the extraordinary men and women (Reservists) who are our Reserve Forces and the support given to them by their civilian Employers.

The average Reservist receives training in transferable skills which could cost a Company £8,000 per annum to deliver so, as an employer, it is essential that you are able to tap into their full potential.

Employers are not obliged by law to provide extra days off work, either paid or unpaid, to facilitate Reserve Forces training and courses but many do as the benefits gained become apparent in the workplace. Developing your HR Policy to include your Reservist policy ensures clear guidelines for both Managers and Reservists.

To find out more about our Reserve Forces please contact me.

Kristina Carrington Regional SaBRE Campaign Director Email: ea-empsp@rfca.mod.uk Tel: 01245-244817

Reservists, in the main, have full-time civilian employment and undertake their reservist duties during the evenings and weekends so that time out of the workplace is kept to a minimum.

As an employer it is important to understand the practical and personal skills their specialist training gives them and with this in mind SaBRE – Supporting Britain’s Reservists and Employers has produced a series of leaflets that explain the transferable skills available, all endorsed by the Chartered Management Institute.

We’re all stronger with Reservists

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

“We’re proud to support our Reservists not just from a community sense but from a sound business case. The training they bring back is first class in interpersonal skills, self-reliance and fitness.

The training they receive in leadership, communication skills and the like is a great boon to the business.”

Bob Page Head of HR, Hutchinson Ports UK

MEMBERS NEWS

Television presenter becomes company ambassador.

Businessman and television presenter Nick Hewer has become an Ambassador for QMS, an internationally accredited certification body based in Norwich which assists all types of organisations, all over the world, to achieve ISO Certification.

QMS International plc CEO, Jonathan Chapman, initiated the appointment of Nick due to his reputation of being a champion for small businesses, something which started in the late nineties when he ran an initiative for Gordon Brown called ‘You Can Do It Too’ Jonathan said: “Nick is an experienced and well respected business stalwart who has gone from successfully starting a PR Company in 1966 to becoming Lord Sugar’s must trusted business confidante.”

“I believed Nick would appreciate that over the past twenty years QMS has made it possible for over 5,000 start-up companies in the UK to achieve ISO certification which would have otherwise never happened, and with his appointment as an Ambassador I felt it would help increase the awareness of QMS’s unique approach to ISO certification at a time when the country needs as many new companies to

succeed as possible in order to aid economic growth and continue the climb out of a recession.”

time down to just 45 days. Since then QMS have assisted organisations of all types and sizes in gaining in excess of 20,000 certificates.”

QMS were the pioneers of simplifying the assessment process as Managing Director, Peter Gamble, explains: “The ISO process was originally long and drawn out, taking around 9 months on average to achieve certification, this was a shame because it hindered the growth of many companies and others were simply stopped from achieving it because of the expense. So 20 years ago I pioneered a new assessment process which took 80% of the work away from the organisation and cut the average certification

Nick Hewer said: “ISO certified businesses are undoubtedly more productive, more streamlined and more successful than their closest competitors, and a well-structured management system and a customer focused approach can often be the difference between success and failure. That is why QMS’s services are highly invaluable and I thoroughly recommend them to any business who wishes to succeed and gain a competitive edge in the world marketplace.”

Contract win for cleaning specialist.

Fendercare Marine is the company’s latest client in a portfolio that includes the NHS Timber Hill Health Centre in Norwich as well as a number of highprofile businesses.

Set up by managing director Ben Leary in January 2012, the firm is a familyrun business whose clients include offices, landlords and domestic clients throughout Norfolk.

Mr Leary first gained experience running a commercial cleaning organisation in London, before spotting a gap in the market in his home county, where he used his expertise to set up the new cleaning service.

The firm now has seven new members of staff in order to serve its growing client base and currently employs 16 full-time field and office personnel.

Norwich-based cleaning specialist Jack’s Clean Team has been awarded a new contract to supply cleaning services to Fendercare Marine Limited at their offices in Seething and Yarmouth.

He said: “Investing in local people is vital to our business and we train our staff not only to meet the most stringent quality standards but to take pride in doing a great job.”

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE7

PAGE TITLEVOICE NORFOLK

Airport announces the winner of the corporate travel demand survey.

Kevin Ovenden, CEO of the ACTEON GROUP Ltd, energy sector company based in Norwich, has won a prize provided by Norwich International Airport – a set of 50 business lounge tickets which can be used over the next 12 months when traveling from the airport.

In October 2013, Norwich International Airport set up an online corporate travel demand survey and invited all businesses in the region to take part and share their air travel requirements with the airport so that the airport’s business development team can work with airline partners and focus the efforts on delivering the right choice of direct business flights to key domestic and European business centres from the region’s local airport.

commented: “We are very pleased with the level of corporate responses received so far and we are planning to extend the survey into 2014. The responses are invaluable/essential tool for our business development work, as firstly they clearly demonstrate the readiness and willingness of the region’s businesses to work hand in hand with their local airport and secondly they help focus our route development efforts on working toward delivering new services to those domestic and European business centres which have been highlighted by the corporates in this survey.

Furthermore, on behalf of the airport I would like to thank all the businesses who have taken part in the survey for their valuable feedback and their continued support in improving air links from the region’s local airport.”

Hamsin Hadziabdic, Business Development Manager at Norwich International Airport

Special anniversary.

Having again outgrown rented premises in Bowthorpe, they relocated to Fletcher Way Norwich in December 2012. Purchasing the property in July the building was completely gutted, refitted and refurbished during the following months to provide an energy-efficient, modern, purpose designed headquarters for their relocation ready for the New Year of 2013.

Norwich based Image Display & Graphics Ltd has celebrated 25 years in business.

An award winning exhibition, display and graphics company they specialise in the design, creation and management of a wide variety of exhibition stands, displays, graphics, signage and events.

Launching as Image Development in February 1989 they commenced trading from a small city centre office in Norwich. By June of the same year they had moved to newly built manufacturing premises at Hellesdon Park, on the Norwich north-west ring-road. One unit became two within the first quarter and it wasn’t anytime at all until those 2 units had grown to 4. Some 25 years on Image are still at it and continue expanding and investing in their business.

MD Iain Cosham said: “Over the years we’ve seen many changes and experienced many challenges. We’ve seen our industry change beyond all recognition from the days of the trades union closed shop arrangement which declined in the early 90’s to the advent of digital technology and the birth of the internet back in 1995. Since then it’s been a matter of continued investment in new technologies, production processes and materials to keep pace and remain competitive.”

“For example we outgrew conventional large format printing several years ago and expanded into “grand format”. This added new exciting eco solvent machines to our print plant increasing the range of media’s we can print on but then we also needed more space to house them.”

“Although our core focus remains mainly on exhibitions and events, signage and graphics have again become an increasing part of our day to day workload. So 25 years on our repertoire remains as comprehensive as ever and investment continues. The new building was a huge financial commitment to secure our future in Norwich.”

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

On the up.

Prior to 2013 TrueTraders was mainly associated as an online retailer with the intent to develop its customer audience and create easier and more convenient means of shopping for existing and future customers 2013 was a big year for the company in which it moved to a larger premises which is situated in the busy town of Great Yarmouth.

The company has a larger warehouse and now has the ability to offer customers a walk in shop to view the great range of quality products, first-hand.

Recently, the company expanded the company in different direction and has already welcomed two new faces to the marketing and accounts departments.

The company has furthered its impression on the public by branching into many social networking sites and has plans to make TrueTraders more interactive and uptodate with the ever-changing world of technology.

MEMBERS NEWS

Initiative gives young people key skills.

East Norfolk Sixth Form College partnered with Traded.org.uk to further enhance the opportunities for students to develop their employability and work related skills. Traded.org. uk is an online business directory which raises money for local schools and colleges and also helps to foster closer business relationships to support student enterprise activity.

East Norfolk Sixth Form College has a talent pool of 1750 16-19 year olds who are drawn from as far north as Bacton and as far south as Southwold.

Businesses can really help students by offering a work placement as this allows them to gain an invaluable opportunity to consolidate and apply the knowledge and understanding gained in their A level or BTEC studies into a work based context. It also offers students an insight into what the real world of business is and challenges that they face.

Work placements are generally for one afternoon or one morning a week but can be tailored around each student so that they can gain meaningful experience of work. Work placements can help with raising the profile of

career opportunities within the organisation and they can also directly influence the employer by going through the stages of planning, implementing and evaluating work, which can have a positive impact on an employer’s management development.

Jonathan White, Development Director from Traded commented: “It is great to be helping East Norfolk Sixth Form College. Traded offers a win-win solution. It helps businesses with additional online presence by creating an online profile, which includes a business description, contact information, unlimited pictures, videos and the ability to post news stories, events, offers and job opportunities. It also allows each business to indicate their ability to help schools and colleges with visits, talks, mentoring support and work placements. In addition to East Norfolk Sixth Form College finding new business supporters, Traded will also help raise additional funds. Businesses that join the Traded directory pay £20 plus vat per year and we donate £10 to the school / college funds which can be injected back into the programme.”

Kasia Beblot Work Placement Co-ordinator said “We are delighted that Traded.org.uk are

supporting our students to gain opportunities for meaningful work placements. We have been running a pilot scheme and now that the demand for work placements is increasing, we need to expand our employer base. We have a talent pool of students here who would greatly benefit from this experience; however the programme can be also beneficial to employers.

By getting involved they could influence the quality of future employers and develop their recruitment channels while raising their community profile.”

Railway records best ever figures.

The North Norfolk Railway, based at Sheringham, achieved record passenger numbers in 2013 on its Sheringham to Holt operation..

it is used for Corporate events daytime and evenings where businesses hire the train for a period offering anything from refreshments to full sit down dining experience for the guests or staff. The Dining trains can also be hired to support Weddings which can be performed at Weybourne Station where a special license is held for ceremony’s to be conducted.

Away from the operating aspect the Railway has a comprehensive Engineering facility which is situated at Weybourne Station. Here maintenance of the Locomotives both Steam and Diesel is performed and in a separate building the upkeep of the rolling stock Carriages etc is carried out.

The total was 157,800, which was 6 % up on 2012 and 7,303 passengers up on the previous highest in 2011, where just over 150,000 used the Railway.

The record year was achieved even with the extreme adverse weather experienced in the first quarter of 2013 where the early spring Gala suffered from the weather resulting in low visitor numbers.

frequency for the majority of the year (April to November).

However, the reintroduction of the Thomas event in May was extremely successful and visitor numbers following that event improved month by month resulting in the final record number.

Outside of these months the Railway is still operating providing events and limited timetable operations.

The Railway has a number of streams to its business that all feed into the final numbers.

The daily operations provided by both Steam and Diesel traction provide a comprehensive timetable with services operating on a 45-minute

One of the operations which is growing in popularity is the Dining Train product. Regular evening Dining trains are supplemented by Sunday Lunch trains with a number of Murder Mystery evenings added during the year. The Railway also offers the Dining train for hire and

The Railway has 400 volunteers whose main function is to operate the trains and supplementary services such as Signalling and Station management. Anyone wanting to get involved can apply for roles from Driving ,to working in the Buffet facilities. The Company runs regular induction days which highlight all the possible activities volunteers can be involved in.

It is fair to say that without the volunteers there would be no railway. IF you are interested then please get in touch with our General Office for details 01263 820800.

FEBRUARY/MARCH MARCH/APRIL 2013 2014

PAGE9

NORFOLK VOICE

Could our factory ‘Downtime’ lead to improved ‘Uptime’ in yours?

ADVERTISING FEATURE Imagine this. A factory where production downtime doesn’t cost a fortune, where machine operators have time to learn the fundamentals of how the machine really works, where the planned maintenance programme can be fully implemented, where maintenance engineers have time not only to diagnose faults, but also have the time to analyse the causes of faults.

Does that sound unbelievable?….imagine some more…

A factory where pneumatic and hydraulic function can be seen in action, where computer control can be interrogated, modified and tested, where the robot doesn’t work 24/7.

A place where learning ‘why’ and ‘how’ the process works, leads to an understanding of ‘what’ is required to keep it running, more efficiently and more effectively.

Imagine if such a place could exist, better still if such a place existed in Norfolk, imagine the possibilities?

Imagine no more, welcome to your reality.

The factory of your imagination exists as part of a multi-million pound investment in engineering technology at The College of West Anglia, King’s Lynn. The reality is a dedicated facility which includes production plant with the sole function of providing ‘real’ learning and skills training. With capability to provide hands on training and assessment for line operators, single and multi-skilled engineers, in both mechanical and electrical principles, the reality is here availability now.

The reality of our factory; n ‘Downtime’ is king. Training time is valuable, not expensive. n Machine principles are understood n Maintenance skills are developed n Faults are identified, causes analysed n Fluid power works n PLCs are programmed and re-programmed n The robot waits for fresh instructions

A factory where the only thing missing is production pressure, such a unique place exists…and it exists for you in Norfolk.

Join a select group of businesses already benefiting from this reality. We have the time and the tools for training available, call in to see the training reality for yourself, or visit us here www.cwa.ac.uk/factory To discuss this further please call Nik Mitchell Training Manager at The College of West Anglia on 01553 815207. Or email nmitchell@col-westanglia.ac.uk

Speaking to groups of people doesn’t have to be like this…www.speakingwords.co.uk

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk business confidence improving.

Peter Hawes As I meet and talk with other Norfolk businesses I am greatly encouraged by their strength and resilience, with a significant number reporting increased confidence despite continuing economic pressures and cash flow pressures.

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It is a credit to the innovative, flexible and determined nature of business people within our county that, across the diverse range of sectors that make up the commercial community, many are upbeat about sales levels, export opportunities, investment plans and employment creation.

Norfolk has never been a ‘boom and bust’ area and its stability is seen as a positive by the hubs of excellence that have chosen to locate here.

In the county there are now innovative hi-tech firms and highly successful service industries, cutting-edge research and state-ofthe-art training and further education facilities, niche manufacturing and tourism operations that are competing on the national, and indeed international, scene. These organisations, along with the solid base of new and established smaller businesses, help keep Norfolk successful as a profitable commercial county.

We still lack some of the essential infrastructure in communications that will be necessary to guarantee sustainable, long-term competitiveness, but with the significant improvements to important parts of the transport network and the county’s push for better broadband coverage, we are addressing the issues. And, importantly for the wider perception of Norfolk as a brand, we are seen to be addressing them in a robust and resolute manner.

At Norse we have enjoyed considerable expansion over the last twelve months, both locally and across of the UK, and have seen first-hand the green shoots of recovery. Hopefully as these encouraging signs start to strengthen Norfolk businesses will be at the forefront of this renewed confidence.

Thetford 01842 750222

Peter Hawes Managing Director Norse Commercial Services

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MARCH/APRIL 2014

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NORFOLK VOICE

Improved economic conditions brings cautious optimism to Norfolk.

Have you seen accelerated demand as a result of the improved economic conditions?

At a recent Bank of England lunch, Tim Pike, the Agent for the East of England, asked local businesses whether, as a result of the improved economic conditions, they had: seen accelerated demand on their services; had plans to invest in their businesses; or had noticed access to finance was becoming easier; and whether there were any other issues affecting them?

Do you have plans to invest in your business?

Has access to finance become easier?

The range of Chamber member businesses around the table were from very different sectors: agri-tech to manufacturing, and transport to general trading, both large and small. Overall their answers were positive and they were cautiously optimistic about the future.

Many said that they were seeing signs of growth in their business and some had plans for investment, whilst others outlined their intention to export more. Access to finance was still proving problematic for some organisations, whilst others highlighted credit control was also becoming an issue, with many larger companies now operating on 90 day payment terms. Some of the smaller members highlighted that the

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Government’s recently announced minimum wage increase would make trading harder for them.

The Norfolk economy does not have the severe highs and lows that can be seen in other areas of the UK, such as the North East, therefore the effects of the improved economic conditions will take slightly longer to filter through to our region.

Business confidence in Norfolk will increase as more starts to happen locally and there are some really exciting opportunities ahead: City Deals; the upcoming agri-tech sector; and Sizewell C and offshore renewables; will all help drive economic growth in Norfolk.

CHAMBER POLICY

Great Yarmouth businesses update Brandon Lewis MP. Members of the Great Yarmouth Chamber Council recently met with Brandon Lewis, MP for Great Yarmouth, to highlight issues affecting local businesses.

Among the topics discussed was the need to highlight the many and varied opportunities available to local businesses from the offshore and renewable industry; Assisted Area Status and the benefits this could bring to Great Yarmouth; skills and careers advice; and infrastructure.

Brandon outlined that Great Yarmouth’s Assisted Area Status case was being well supported and that he was cautiously optimistic that Great Yarmouth stood a good chance of being awarded Assisted Area Status, which would bring our region into line with the offerings that other Centres for Renewable Engineering (CORE) areas already benefit from.

Members of the Great Yarmouth Chamber Council highlighted the need for more

Government support on the education establishments to ensure that the young people of today understand what opportunities are available to them locally. At present the schools do not have sufficient time or funding within the existing curriculum to cover careers advice in any great detail. Brandon advised that he was organising a Jobs Fair in conjunction with the Borough Council which would be held on 7 March 2014 at Great Yarmouth Racecourse.

Improvements to the A47, including extending the A47 to Lowestoft were also discussed.

Brandon advised that the Norfolk Nine MPs were campaigning hard at Westminster and called for the business community to keep raising the profile of the A47 campaign locally.

Brandon advised that the business case for the improvements was expected to be finalised by the Norfolk County Council in the next few weeks.

Norfolk business is our business.

The Norfolk Chamber Board Away Day was held at Zaks Restuarant on Mousehold Heath, Norwich. The discussions centred around defining the Norfolk Chamber Vision and what the Board wanted the Chamber to achieve in the coming year.

As a starting point, the Board were shown a short video called ‘Fish Sticks’. The fish company’s aim was to be world famous. One of their famous actions was throwing the wet fish around and people would come from all over the world to watch. The teamwork, enthusiasm and personal ownership of their vision and goals was obvious.

The three key buzz words from the video were Commit; Be It; and Coach It. The Board looked at what the Chamber’s ‘wet fish’ action should be. One possible conclusion was the Chamber’s ability to help businesses across all sectors, sizes and locations throughout Norfolk.

The Board brainstormed key words for what the Chamber should strive to be and came up with: n Modern n Credible n Influential

forward thinking, innovative and current and the Chamber must be synonymous with all of this.

n Successful n Engaging n Digital n Visible Norfolk Chamber has been using ‘We are You’ as it’s tagline. The Board want to see the Norfolk Chamber be the definition of its tagline. The fast growing business community in Norfolk is modern,

Having defined what the Chamber should be, the Board turned their attention to creating the Vision. How does the Chamber show that they represent the Norfolk business community?

Following much debate, the Board decided that ‘Norfolk Business is Our Business’ should be the Chamber’s Vision. Work is now underway to put the Mission behind the Vision.

MARCH/APRIL JULY/AUGUST 2011 2014

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PAGE TITLEVOICE NORFOLK

Caterham scoops ‘Business of the Year’ at MIA Business Excellence Awards.

Caterham has been honoured as ‘Business of the Year’ at the annual MIA (Motorsport Industry Association) Business Excellence Awards, held in Birmingham on the evening of Thursday 9th January 2014.

As a brand, Caterham has continued to grow, expand and diversify across each of the business arms that make up the Caterham Group – Caterham Cars, Caterham Technology & Innovation (CTI), Caterham F1 Team, Caterham Composites and the recently-launched Caterham Bikes division.

Many of the high profile activities of the group have benefited from engineering and development work that has been led by CTI, the specialist engineering services division of the Caterham Group based in Hingham, Norfolk, which has been a member of the MIA since January 2013.

The MIA was created in April 1994, and in the nearly 20 year tenure of the Association it has helped to grow member businesses substantially, remaining a positive beacon for the motorsport industry by working with UK and EU parliaments to ensure the British motorsport industry has a solid, long term role within the Economy.

The Caterham Group is one of two recipients of the Business of the Year Award, triumphing in the category for larger businesses with a turnover of over £5m.

Graham Macdonald, CEO of the Caterham Group, accepted the award and said: “Both CTI and the rest of the Caterham Group are honoured to receive this award from a

body whose members are some of the finest engineering minds in the world. This really is an accolade from peers, which makes holding this trophy all the more special and satisfying because they recognise the great work that is being done across the Group.”

The Caterham Group has had a whirlwind 2013, with expansion occurring internationally, the addition of Caterham Bikes, a Moto2GP team for 2014 and a number of new Caterham models.

Some of the highlights of the past 12 months include: n Marking Caterham’s 40th anniversary year, with the Seven 160 pulling the Seven back to its original philosophy of a simple, lightweight race car for the road. n Creation of the AeroSeven Concept n Launch of 3 new Caterham Seven models, the 485, 620R and 160

n Continuing work on Caterham’s flagship new sportscar as a result of the 50-50 Joint Venture with Renault n Expansion into motorcycles – including announcement of entry into the 2014 Moto GP2 championship n Caterham’s debut in the Le Mans 24 Hours n Expansion into new export markets in Asia and South America n Taking motorsport design expertise into the Aerospace & Marine sectors

Caterham is a buyer at Meet the Buyer on 20 March. Full details page 44.

New website is launched.

West Norfolk based Gurney Environmental have launched their new website which contains a host of news and information on the activities of this growing environmental water re-use and wastewater management company.

The new site includes details on past and present projects, information on the technologies and systems and case study’s of past projects.

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The company has started the new year with a major order from United Utilities for reservoir water treatment equipment Go to www.gurneyenvironmental.com for further information

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

A powerful global network for Norfolk companies.

The Government’s aim of transforming the British economy by 2020 by doubling annual exports to £1 trillion and increasing the number of UK exporters by 100,000 is undoubtedly a challenge to UK business and support networks.

Rising to this challenge, UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and the British Chambers of Commerce are developing a global network of businessled organisations to provide practical business support to exporting companies in the UK, offering a seamless journey from their local Chamber of Commerce to fully accredited British Business Centres overseas.

The Prime Minister recently launched an £8m programme to enhance these overseas business networks designed to provide SMEs with practical vibrant spaces in which to land and get started in overseas markets. In addition to the support offered by UKTI and Chambers, these business centres will provide other services – from hot desking to PR and discounted advice from experts – across 40 high growth markets such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Poland.

Building a global B2B network has started by connecting the new overseas British Business Centres to UK Chambers. The East of England is fully involved in this initiative and has recently appointed a Regional Coordinator to link accredited Chambers in this region to the networks overseas.

Bradley Rowley, recently International Trade Adviser for UK Trade & Investment based in East Anglia, and Vice Consul for Trade & Investment, British Consulate General, Shanghai, is in place to ensure that companies in Norfolk take full advantage of this new drive. Bradley brings his experience of supporting UK exporters both in the UK and overseas right here to the East of England and will be working in partnership with UKTI, who are behind this important initiative.

Bradley Rowley said: “Developing strong relationships between domestic and overseas networks is our first priority which will provide UK business with a powerful global business support network for the first time.”

“Markets selected have been prioritised as high growth markets but are often seen by our SMEs as difficult to access so it makes sense to provide more B2B support in these countries. In time, this will help position UK businesses at the forefront of global growth opportunities.”

Tracey Howard, International Trade Director of Norfolk Chamber said: “One thing that remains absolutely clear is the priority that must be attached to boosting our bilateral trade and investment and I am delighted to welcome Bradley, who brings impressive international trade experience. I have no doubt that his combination of business knowledge of the UK market as well as overseas, will greatly benefit businesses in our region.”

“Bradley will be developing a much needed integrated global business support network with Chambers of Commerce, UKTI and LEPs, focused on delivering quality services and maintaining high quality customer relations so that companies can see solid and sustained progress in their overseas markets.”

Bradley will be based at Suffolk Chamber’s Ipswich office but will work alongside International Trade Advisers in this region.

Norfolk Chamber – a powerful voice for business.

All companies can benefit from the range of information, advice, networking events and International Trade support that is available from Norfolk Chamber.

a powerful nationwide network of Accredited Chambers of Commerce, serving over 100,000 businesses across the UK, which employ over five million people.

Norfolk Chamber is one of the most influential business leadership organisations in the UK representing over 800 businesses in Norfolk.

The markets in this programme are Brazil, Colombia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey, UAE and Vietnam; Kuwait, Algeria, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Taiwan, Burma, Philippines, Cambodia, Pakistan, Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania, Mozambique, Angola, Chile, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary, Czech Republic and Japan. Although a developed market, Japan is included because it is often a less easy for UK SMEs and China already has a fully-operational China Britain Business Council which acts in this capacity with UKTI China.

By: n Leading – we provide a powerful voice for business to influence the way our area is shaped n Connecting – we empower the local business community to connect, collaborate and profit n Growing – we help business to prosper through tailored advice, high growth and international trade services At national level, as part of the British Chambers of Commerce it sits at the heart of

www.exportbritain.org.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2014

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NORFOLK VOICE

International Trade Services.

Many of you who know the International Trade Team at Norfolk Chamber will be fully aware of the documentation service that we provide, especially our online service ‘e-zCert’. But for those of you who don’t know us too well – we offer a lot more than just the documentation assistance.

Our services are not just available to members of Norfolk Chamber – any exporting company in Norfolk can obtain our help and guidance, however members receive up to 50% discount on the cost of the services.

Please see below a general overview of the other popular services that are available from the team:

Stationery We hold stocks of most of the blank forms that an exporter will need, such as Certificates of Origin, EUR1s, ATRs, country specific Invoices like Caricoms and C16s, Shipping and Dangerous Goods notes, Incoterms Booklets and much more. No need to search the internet for suppliers, as we store them all here at our Norwich office, where you can either collect them, or we can send them out in the post to you the same day that you order.

Training We deliver a wide range of training courses relating to International Trade. Some of these courses are now accredited, so when a delegate sits on six of these session they receive a Foundation Certificate from The British Chambers of Commerce. Topics cover export documentation, letters of credit and other payment methods, customs procedures and much more. The courses are repeated twice a year, so if you can’t make one date, it won’t be long before we run it again.

Translations We have a huge database of qualified, registered translators who are regulated by either the Institute of Linguists or the Institute of Translators and Interpreters. Our service is renowned for its speed, with 99% of the work being carried out by email within a day or so.

We can also arrange for an interpreter to be available to you for meetings, conference calls or events. Our rates are very competitive, so why not give us a try?

Letter of Credit Service Are you losing out on potential business by avoiding the use of Letters of Credit? This could be because you don’t understand their use, have heard worrying stories about payment being delayed, or simply have no idea how to use them. With the exception of full payment in advance, Letters of Credit are one of the most guaranteed forms of payment.

We provide a service that takes your L/C and deals with everything on your behalf – you don’t have to worry about a thing. The service includes everything from arranging the shipment, preparing the documents and, where necessary, getting them certified and legalised, liaising with the bank all the way through to the final payment, which goes straight into your bank account.

ATA Carnets A carnet is a customs document that acts as a ‘Passport for Goods’ which are exported temporarily. If you are taking part in an overseas Trade Fair or Exhibition, you may be able to use a carnet to simplify the procedure of taking the goods through customs, without having to lodge large deposits of money to cover the duty. A carnet could also be used if you are taking Commercial Samples overseas for demonstration purposes. When you pay duty for temporary exports, it can take several months after the goods have returned, to claim this back from customs. The cost of the carnet is a one-off fee which is non-refundable, but it can be considerably less than the duty you would normally pay. It does, however, eliminate the hassle of getting through customs in the first place.

Import Certificates If you are an importer of controlled goods, you are required to issue an Import Certificate.

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This is to make the UK Government aware that the item is coming into our country and track its whereabouts, so that it cannot get into the wrong hands and be used for something it shouldn’t. Norfolk Chamber can provide you with the forms that are to be completed by yourselves, which we will then check and stamp before sending copies to the relevant authorities here in the UK, as well as the country the goods are coming from.

International Trade Events We are working on another series of events covering high growth markets, where you can learn about the business opportunities available to you and how to access them. Specialists will come and explain how to enter these markets and give you tips on the cultural issues that you should be aware of when communicating with potential clients in these countries.

International Trade Update You can subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter, which comes straight to your inbox. This is where we highlight news articles that may be of interest to you and your business, regulations that you should be aware of, trade missions that are taking place, plus details of our own upcoming events and training courses. It comes in a headline format so is easy to read, with links that take you to the full article.

Further detailed information on any of the above services is available within the export section of the Norfolk Chamber website www.norfolkchamber.co.uk. However, you can obtain individual flyers by contacting the International Trade Team on 01603 729712 or at export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Tracey Howard, International Trade Director

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Researching the market pays off for company.

Case history – Heatrae Sadia, Norwich

Stand proud - be a case study!!

Based in Norwich, Heatrae Sadia is the UK’s largest manufacturer of electric water heating products for both residential and commercial applications and has been providing heating products for more than 75 years.

The company exports to a broad overseas market. This includes Northern Europe (which is a strong region for the BDR Group, of which Heatrae Sadia is a member), France, Belgium, Holland, New Zealand, Russia, and South, East and West Africa.

More recently, the company has made a new foray into the Middle East, specifically Qatar, where it plans to open an office to service the new customers it is working with there.

Steve Latarche, Heatrae Sadia Export Manager, explains: “When I joined the company in 2009 I was tasked with assessing the market for the GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council), which is like the common market of the Gulf region. Once I had established that there was a strong market we set about creating a suitable range of products and regenerating the Heatrae Sadia name in the region. We have also been working with regional consultant engineers and specifiers who operate there, and attending overseas trades shows in Dubai, Saudi and Iraq.

“This work is now beginning to bear fruit and we have secured a few good contracts with key clients that we hope will lead to more in the future.”

Researching potential overseas markets can be challenging, so how does Heatrae Sadia do it?

“A range of ways,” says Steve. “Desk research, the internet, personal knowledge of a region.

Attending trade shows is also important to get a feel for potential markets.”

“We also use the Norfolk Chamber a great deal as a resource and support. Their documentation service is very good and their export courses have helped us no end. Their team is very professional and I have nothing but praise for them. Other members of staff also attend their business and social events, so there is something for everyone.”

Exporters face many challenges – the culture, logistics, language barriers, but for Steve it is mainly the competition. “We are often up against products that are manufactured with inferior quality materials and that come with a very short warranty. We are as competitive as we can be, but we only use the best quality products and we offer the longest warranties in the industry, and this means our products comes with a premium.”

“In the Middle East especially, British manufactured products are considered to be of superior quality, so there is still a great deal of kudos to being British. This is a key selling point for us. In addition, our work with specifiers often means that our products are recommended at an early stage, but price is always an issue.”

Heatrae Sadia’s distribution process is very varied, because it works with such a wide range of clients. “Some of our products go straight to distributors. We also supply to exporters and direct to contractors. It’s quite a complex process.”

Steve’s experience with exporting has taught him a few valuable lessons over the years and his advice to novice exporters is clear: “Make sure trust and credit are earned. Know who you are dealing with and never assume anything. Also, get everything in writing, a contract is essential.”

We are looking for local members who would like to share their export experiences.

Case studies provide the audience with first hand knowledge of how easy/hard it is to open up in a particular market, as well as advice and tips on what to look out for.

Our next set of events are now being organised and will be scheduled as follows: October 2014

Poland

November 2014

Mexico

December 2014

Hong Kong

January 2015

Nigeria

February 2015

Czech Republic

March 2015

Kuwait

If you are active in any of these markets, and would be willing to deliver a short presentation to other exporters, please do get in touch with us.

International Trade Team Tel. 01603 729706 Email: export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

For more help and advice on how to export visit the International Section on www.norfolkchamber.co.uk, contact the International Team on 01603 625977, or email export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2014

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NORFOLK VOICE

THE BIG INTER Science Park ideally placed to take advantage of opportunities.

Sally Ann Forsyth was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Norwich Research in September last year with a clear remit to develop its full potential as a world-class science park.

She came to the role with plenty of experience; her previous job was Director of Science Parks for Goodman Limited, the major Business and Science Park developer in the UK.

worldclass research and innovation centre and number one in its key sectors.”

and networking space, we are attracting interest from a variety of companies.”

A key part of her role is to work with practitioners in open innovation with the ability to build successful coalitions between the Park partners, businesses, stakeholders and the regional community, all drawing on her strong scientific background and financial expertise; she is a qualified Associate Chartered Management Accountant.

The Park includes partners the University of East Anglia, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and four research institutes namely the John Innes Centre, The Sainsbury Laboratory, the Institute of Food Research and The Genome Analysis Centre, between them offering a huge range of expertise, excellent facilities and services and an unrivalled talent pool.

Sally Ann, who has in-depth experience of working with commercial, academic and Government organisations, said: “Norwich Research Park faces the same challenges as other businesses based in Norfolk, particularly in terms of the road and rail connectivity to the rest of the UK.”

Sally Ann said: “Synergies between the Research Park’s partners and businesses, as well as gaining Government and regional support, is contributing to the Park’s positioning as an outstanding location for research, innovation and business.”

“Progress is being made and the opening of the fully dualled A11 next winter will be a big boost for the region and the Park.”

As part of this role, she was Director for Harwell Oxford, a joint venture between STFC, UKAEA and Goodman and Colworth Science Park which was a joint venture between Unilever and Goodman.

“IT connectivity on the Research Park is superfast but good broadband and 3G connectivity is a must in more rural locations, particularly for those who may need to work from home from time to time.”

At Harwell she was responsible for the establishment of the Oxford Enterprise Zone, inward investment by Element 6 (De Beers) and the European Space Agency that led to the establishment of the UK Space Satellite Catapult Centre.

“Equally, it is important to change the perceptions of the region that are held by some and raise the profile of both the Research Park and Norfolk in general. It is a great place in which live and do business.”

Prior to joining Goodman, Sally Ann was Principal with Unilever Ventures where she focused on technology spin-outs and led the company’s activity to develop best practice in open innovation.

Sally Ann, who had more than 19 years’ experience within Unilever operating companies and holds a BSc (Hons) in genetics from Edinburgh University and a PhD in molecular biology from Cambridge University, brought with her a clear strategic vision for Norwich Research Park, which is based on the outskirts of Norwich.

She said: “My long-term vision for Norwich Research Park is for it to be recognised as a

The potential is certainly there. Sally Ann said: “Norwich Research Park is a unique cluster of world-class institutions and a thriving community of science and technology based businesses ranging from life science to IT.” “With more than 12,000 staff, 3,000 researchers and clinicians, and a host of entrepreneurs all located within a 1km radius, companies located here can reap the benefits. We can support the whole innovation supply chain from academic through to commercial.”

“The Park specialises in a wide range of business sectors and with our new hub building Centrum opening in Spring 2014 providing office and laboratory accommodation as well as meeting

“The Norwich Research Park aims to deliver solutions to the global challenges of healthy ageing, food and energy security, sustainability and living with environmental change.”

“It is an international centre of excellence in life and environmental sciences research with worldclass expertise in the research and development pipeline from genomics and data analysis, global geochemical cycles and crop biology, through to food, health and human nutrition.”

“Our science transcends conventional boundaries by forging interdisciplinary links, driving innovation, enterprise and promoting economic growth, and particularly underpinning a new bioeconomy.”

“The future is optimistic for the Norwich Research Park as a whole and we must seize the opportunity to make it a success.”

“The commercial accommodation on the Park is greater than 90% full so we are very much looking forward to the opening of Centrum in the Spring with an additional 22,300 sq ft (2,070 sq m) of office and laboratory space.”

“Centrum will be the hub building for the Park and with its meeting and networking space and drop in café/restaurant and we hope it will become a key business centre for the region.”

My long-term vision for Norwich Research Park is for it to be recognised as a worldclass research and innovation centre and number one in its key sectors.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

THE BIG INTERVIEW

RVIEW

By John Dean deangriss@btinternet.com

Sally Ann Forsyth Chief Executive Officer of Norwich Research based at Norwich Research Park

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE19

NORFOLK VOICE

Norfolk recruitment specialist polkadotfrog shares its advice on wellbeing in the workplace.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Wellbeing at work continues to be an important issue for employees and employers.

It characterises the quality of working life, making it important for employers to create a professional and caring environment for staff and ensure that everyone is treated equally and with respect.

Norfolk recruitment specialist polkadotfrog, which has recently celebrated ten years in the industry, offers its top tips on promoting wellbeing in the workplace:1. One-to-ones – having regular appraisals for staff will ensure they are communicated with, feel valued and that they have a forum for sharing any concerns or problems. It also means that they feel in control at work and emotionally supported.

2. Health – offering a complimentary eye test or screenings for cancer will make staff

feel valued and promote wellness in the workplace. Another option is a fitness activity during lunch or after work. polkadotfrog are running a series of Cancer in the Workplace events with Birketts on caring for staff after returning to work following cancer.

3. Family life / maternity – have a procedure in place in dealing with maternity leave in your business and know your requirements legally as an employer. In addition consider whether you can offer flexible working arrangements.

4. Work-life balance – job strain and working outside set hours just to get the job done can lead to frustration and stress. Ensure there is support for staff during busy periods, that they are thanked for their hard work and commitment and consider lieu time.

Lucy Tufts, Director and Founder of polkadotfrog comments: “The quality of working conditions and relationships with fellow staff are crucial to wellbeing in the workplace. All employers should have policies in place in making the workplace a more positive environment as it has such an

important effect on how a person feels. With good procedures in place, it can increase performance and staff retention.” polkadotfrog specialises in Office Support, Sales, Marketing, Finance, HR, IT, Legal and Shipping & Transport sectors across all levels and permanent, temporary and contract positions.

For more information visit www.polkadotfrog.co.uk or call 01603 337 000.

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MEMBERS NEWS

City Deal is signed.

Norwich Research Park hosted the signing of the City Deal, attended by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg.

Norwich’s success in securing a City Deal will bring new prosperity to the region, according to Dr Sally Ann Forsyth, Norwich Research Park’s Chief Executive.

She said: “Research into new ways of improving food production, human nutrition and health has always been a key focus for the research institutes on the Norwich Research Park.”

“However in recent years greater understanding of genetics – the code of life – has opened up opportunities for new types of research. We are fortunate to have The Genome Analysis Centre (TGAC) located on the Park and their cutting edge technological platforms, knowledge and key expertise in this area to help translate research into new businesses.”

A good example of this is Procarta Biosystems, a spinout from the John Innes Centre, that is developing a new approach to antibiotics.

Procarta’s patented approach takes away the ability of the bacteria to control its own genes.

This form of attack is completely new to bacteria and therefore makes it difficult for the bacteria to develop a resistance to drugs developed with this technology.

Dr Michael McArthur, co-founder and CSO of Procarta says that being on the Park has been hugely beneficial to the company. “As the science grows so does the company and we are actively recruiting. We want to play a key part of the scientific revolution that is going on at

the Norwich Research Park. The UK government has backed us through its scientific funding body, the BBSRC, and there has always been an expectation that we will generate value and jobs. I am glad to reciprocate.”

Norwich Research Park has one of the largest concentrations of microbiologists in Europe and this has created an exciting hub for drug discovery and research. Collaboration across the Park – between the University of East Anglia (UEA), UEA’s Norwich Medical School, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and the research institutes; The Genome Analysis Centre (TGAC), John Innes Centre (JIC) and the Institute of Food Research (IFR), plus the on-site Clinical Trials Research Unit – has started to fast track a range of new developments.

Other areas of expertise include; medical technologies, nutraceuticals, functional foods, industrial biotechnology, clean technologies and biofuels.

Norwich Research Park is keen to increase collaboration with regional companies. Its Centrum building, due to open in the spring, has flexible meeting spaces to create an environment that encourages networking and access to knowledge. It also has lab and office space for growing companies that want to locate there in order to benefit from the resources that are available in both terms of specialist equipment and expertise.

Sally Ann Forsyth says that entrepreneurs and regional businesses are actively encouraged to contact the Norwich Research Park office to talk about opportunities on the Park.

“Many of the companies we support have been able to access funding and grants as a result of working with partners on the Park and we can also arrange access to expertise and specialist equipment. We invite people to get in touch and see for themselves the opportunities that are on offer.”

New look for clinic website.

Website design agency Bigfork have designed a new website for Newmarket House, an eating disorders clinic.

The new website involved a revamp of the navigation system and content with new high quality photography. With the growth in tablets and smartphones the new website was designed to be mobile friendly and also has a SilverStripe content management system for the Newmarket House team to manage the content inhouse.

MARCH/APRIL 2014

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NORFOLK VOICE

When it makes sense to ask for help.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Being in business can be a challenging task at the best of times. So much to do, so much information to absorb, not enough hours in the day.

That is where business support companies come into their own because they can offer assistance in areas including finance, marketing, HR, administration and training.

They bring essential knowledge to SME owner and take many of the worries away from the daily task of running a business.

The advantages of outsourcing such services for SMEs are many, including the fact that it can represent a flexible approach to problemsolving.

Support companies are often prepared to negotiate advantageous terms and conditions for clients, perhaps based on a job-by-job basis or a fixed-price project cost.

That means that a SME can sign a deal that is specifically tailored to its needs, which can work out more cost-effective.

The same with training, vital in order to ensure that employees possess the very latest knowledge and skills.

And even though the company is not employing a full-time member of staff itself, it is still supporting jobs within other companies. Such arrangements can help both parties grow.

Marketing is another example. Companies can try to do the work themselves but it often makes sense to bring in professionals who can write compelling copy, source professional images, communicate with the media and harness the power of social marketing platforms to raise their clients‘ profiles.

Pick and mix One big advantage of outsourcing business support services is that SMEs can pick and mix the kind of services that they require.

They may already have a selection of specialist skills in-house and require additional support on only a few specific elements of a project.

Going out of house to specialist business support companies allows them to bring in those skills as and when required.

It makes sense to do so. Very often, a small business does not have in-house specialism in all the disciplines it requires and battling on without seeking expert help can turn out to be a false economy.

Take HR, for example. Workplace legislation changes at such a rapid rate that a SME needs specialist support to ensure it does not fall foul of employment law.

Finance is the same. SMEs need expertise in such a complex area of business and it often makes sense to buy it in.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Administration is another popular area of business support; whether it be administrative support, office management or providing business premises, it can save a lot of time and effort to buy it in.

A changing landscape Outsourcing business support services is providing a boost to the local economy, creating and preserving jobs, particularly at a time of such dramatic change.

For instance, companies providing such services are stepping in to carry out work in traditional local and central government areas as councils and Whitehall departments slash budgets in the likes of back-office functions, HR and marketing.

Not only has that led to more work being outsourced to the private sector but we are also seeing former public sector employees setting up their own businesses to offer their expertise to a whole new range of clients.

BUSINESS SUPPORT

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MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE23

NORFOLK VOICE

Norfolk businesses increasing recruitment according to Cooper Lomaz.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

PERFECTLY EQUIPPED TO FIND THE RIGHT TALENT From our offices in Norwich, Bury St Edmunds and Lowestoft we have dedicated sector specialists to solve your recruitment requirements, whether you’re looking for full-time staff or contractors.

2014 has started with a genuine sense of optimism that the economy is in true recovery – which is good news for Norfolk businesses.

One of the consequences of a growing economy is the need to recruit people, which was illustrated well by a recent survey by Deloitte which found that 70% of the UK’s leading companies expect to increase their hiring this year.

So, how are some of the key sectors in Norfolk shaping up for 2014 on the recruitment front?

Food Manufacturing This sector is enjoying dynamic growth led by new product launches, new investments and business mergers. However, because fewer people are choosing food manufacturing as their elected career there is a shortage of suitably qualified and experienced candidates to fill these newly created vacancies.

Digital Marketing Marketing budgets are often the quickest to grow when the good times return. So this sector should enjoy significant growth.

Norwich is one of the most important digital hubs outside London. So, it’s no surprise that demand is high for people with digital marketing skills in areas such as mobile apps, SEO and pay-per-click.

Energy The energy sector – oil & gas and renewables – has seen significant growth with Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft being at the epicentre of this resurgence.

Electrical and mechanical design engineers are in short supply as are experienced mid to senior level managers and degree-qualified engineers with practical ‘hands-on’ experience.

IT A growing number of companies in Norfolk are focussed on software or internet-based technology. Virtualisation, Cloud and mobile commerce have resulted in greater demand for candidates skilled in C#, PHP, Java and C++ as well as infrastructure technologies like Citrix XenApp, AWS, SCCM, VMware and Hyper-V. There’s also more demand related to hardware refreshes and Windows upgrades, plus significant transformation programmes are increasing demand for change professionals.

Finding the right candidates 2014 promises to be a busy year for employers as they staff up for the expected growth. It is imperative that companies partner with the right recruitment consultants to take advantage of this year’s opportunities. Cooper Lomaz has a strong local network and ability to find the best people in the region, including those not available through traditional advertising.

Norwich is one of the most important digital hubs outside London.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

BUSINESS SUPPORT

0845 388 6568 www.it-c.co.uk Providing IT Solutions for small business to the large enterprise Remote IT Support On-site IT Support Online Backup

Outsourced IT Telephony Systems Server Installation Network Design Cloud Services Bespoke Development

“It’s like having your own I.T Department in your business!!”

Conference facilities to inspire

Tel: 01508 470 823 Hold your next meeting, seminar or conference at OrbisEnergy, Lowestoft, one of the region’s most inspiring locations.

We provide a friendly customer focused hands on ISO Quality Management systems for small and medium sized business.

To discuss how we can help you grow your business and improve your bottom line using ISO 9001, 14001, 18001 and 27001 call us.

Email: info@mck-consulting.com | www.mck-consulting.com

• Conference room seating up to 220 people.

• Break-out and meeting rooms.

• Half-day or full-day hire.

• Functional and flexible facilities.

• Catering, audio-visual and exhibition support.

• Unrivalled views of the North Sea. To view or book Call 01502 509300 or Email bookings@orbisenergyconferences.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE25

NORFOLK VOICE

Authorized

Reseller

Business Data Management Solutions

Improve your office working environment Anglian Archives are specialists in all aspects of professional paper document off site storage and data management including electronic media tape/ disk back up rotation and scanning of documents including large format scanning for architectural plans and similar.

Reliable internet in rural areas using Satellite broadband.

• Home & wireless broadband • Event wireless internet • Community broadband

Check out our new online shop!

Anglian Archives are able to provide cost effective tailor made solutions for all data storage and management requirements including rapid file and box retrieval as needed via a bar coding system.

Additional services include secure document shredding, cataloguing and scheduled destruction of your files to whatever date you set.

We work with a number of blue chip companies across the private and public sector in a vast array of industries from construction and engineering, to financial and insurance, to solicitors, surveyors and architects, to local government and public services, to education and training and many in between!

We pride ourselves in our quality of customer service and flexibility so why not put us to the test?

shop.ruralbroadband.co.uk

Providers of 3G, WiBE, 4G and 20Mb Satellite Broadband.

For further information please contact Anglian Archives T: 01603 766404 E: info@anglianarchives.co.uk www.anglianarchives.co.uk

01485 572 253 www.ruralbroadband.co.uk

Simplifying your future We all strive to make customers the focus of our business and to give them an experience they will return to and share with others. However, poor service remains the number one cause of customer dissatisfaction.

It is not untypical for around 30-40% of staff effort to be spent undertaking activities that are not actually focused on the customer at all.

Your staff are one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your business and planning what you want them do and when is vital.

What gets in the way of making you easy to do business with?

Can you afford for this to be the case in your business?

Are you confident you can provide the customer service you desire all year?

Select Planning will help you answer these questions and others to help you deliver first class customer service in an affordable way: l

Why do your customers really contact you?

l

Are you meeting the real needs of your customers?

l

Are your people focused on the right things at the right time?

l

Do you have the correct number of appropriately skilled staff?

l

What do you need to do next week, month or year?

If you want to make it easier to do business with you, act now and get the most return from your investment by contacting Select Planning for a consultation. adrian@selectplanning.co.uk Tel: 07814 093420 keith@selectplanning.co.uk Tel: 07884 559303 Adrian Hawes

www.selectplanning.co.uk

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Keith Stapleton

The Games will take place on Friday 13th June 2014 at UEA Sportspark in Norwich from 9am – 6pm Active Norfolk is delighted to invite your company to take part in Norfolk’s Fit4Work Corporate Games 2014, sponsored by Healthy Norwich/NHS Norwich Clinical Commissioning Group and The Forum.

The Games offer 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.

There are activities to suit all abilities and coaches will be on hand to explain the rules.

Entry costs just £50 per team so this event offers excellent value for money for an active day out with colleagues.

For more details and to register your team visit www.activenorfolk.org/corporate If you have any questions please contact us on

01603 732333 or info@activenorfolk.org www.facebook.com/activenorfolk @activenorfolk

sponsored by

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE27

NORFOLK VOICE

Why buying local makes sense.

When it comes to procurement, there is a growing realisation that buying local is important because it supports Norfolk companies who, in turn, boost the local economy.

However, those involved in both buying and selling, stress that buying local is not the beall-and-end all, that Norfolk companies still have to demonstrate that they are the best commercial option.

For companies seeking suppliers, the advantages of buying local include the opportunity to minimise costs and the ease of developing strong relationships.

That is borne out by the experience of Ben Leary - Director of Norwich-based Jacks Clean Team, which was recently awarded a

new contract to supply cleaning services to Fendercare Marine Limited at their offices in Seething and Yarmouth.

Having local companies on which we can fully rely is essential to our stock management strategy.”

Ben said: “We work with local companies who support the local economy, just like we like other businesses to support us, as we are local.

Local companies are often more flexible and we have found them much easier to work with, especially when things do occasionally go wrong.”

“We look for reliability, service and value for money. VfM isn’t about being the cheapest, it’s about being serviced in a way which fits our business needs, which can at times mean urgent supply in a new location. For us to service our clients with excellence we rely on our supply chain having the same mindset.”

“We purchase just in time and rely heavily on our supply base getting it right first time.

Local companies have to compete, though.

Bradley Davis – Group Purchasing Director,

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

COVER FEATURE

over a cup of coffee, than you can, sometimes, in 20 or so emails.”

“I think it’s also important to show support for the local economy, especially in areas such as Great Yarmouth. It’s also an advantage when suppliers know your business and you as a person, I’ve noticed that greatly when we’ve had some urgent requirements, locally, people are more likely to open up out of hours or make that extra phone call which is less likely if the business you’re dealing with has had no previous knowledge of you or your company and that sort of help can be priceless if you have expensive equipment on down time.”

“When reviewing a supplier, obviously competitive pricing is important but just as important is the service they offer, the ability to quote and supply in good time and to have the confidence to recommend the best quality product to you, not necessarily the cheapest.”

Ben Leary

Director, Jacks Clean Team

of Kinnerton (Confectionery) Company Ltd, Fakenham, said: “It is not mission critical to have only local suppliers. If, however, we find that it is a cost effective solution, then we like to support local companies.”

“It can also be advantageous when looking at lead times, storage costs and transport costs. We believe that providing the service and quality meet our expectations then we can work with local companies.”

“It is also feasible that the local company can bring new ideas and concepts to us and these are not restricted to overseas suppliers.”

“Finally, local suppliers are on our doorstep and can therefore work much closely with us then their competitors which in some cases can ‘give them an edge’” Buying local makes sense to Dirk Doornbos Materials & Purchasing Supervisor, Seajacks UK Limited, Great Yarmouth, who said: “It is important to have strong local support in all aspects of procurement, if you can.

“Although geography isn’t so much of an issue or barrier in modern business, it is easier to nurture stronger relationships with local suppliers. You can achieve as much in a 20 minute meet face to face

There are real benefits to buying local, not least the knock-on effect on the community, according to Ron Simpson - Senior Relationship Lead Customer Services, Government Procurement Service, Norwich.

He said: “From the Government Procurement Service’s perspective strong local supply chains address a number of key government agenda items. They contribute to growth, social value, carbon reduction and local well-being.”

“Communities benefit economically by sourcing locally and, from a public procurement perspective, it promotes economy of effort, flexibility and local accountability. It goes without saying that we are looking for evidence that they can deliver value for money.”

“Increasingly, however, we are looking for innovative thinking and a determination to work with Contracting Authorities to deliver outcomes that benefit communities and deliver sustainable long-term savings.”

Despite pressures on budgets, local authorities remain important markets for local companies.

We purchase just in time and rely heavily on our supply base getting it right first time. Having local companies on which we can fully rely is essential to our stock management strategy.

Gillian Newton – Training Officer, Norwich City Council, Norwich, said: “ A local supply chain is indeed very important to us.”

“It supports our corporate priorities - helping to make Norwich a prosperous

city with increased local employment, retaining money spent by us in the local economy and an increased sense of community worth i.e. local suppliers being proud to be supplying local needs.”

“It also supports our Procurement strategy in helping to make effective use of council resources and deliver value for money services.”

“It offers reduced transport costs, which means a reduced carbon footprint for the council.”

“It makes it easier to build a good relationship with suppliers and to monitor their performance.

If any of our stock from these suppliers runs low, it is much easier to obtain more.”

She said the that following would be high on the council’s priority list when reviewing a supplier: n The supplier’s ability/availability to supply goods, services or works. n The ease with which the council can communicate with them n Do they have sound CSR policies and procedures including employment of local people? n Their proven reliability and performance stats n Proportional financial standing ( depending on the value of need) n Whether they can offer competitive pricing n Do they continue to develop sound business plans for the future? n That the pay the national minimum living wage in respect of delivering requirements.

Garry Wheatley - Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, South Norfolk Council, agrees that it makes sense to buy local, where possible.

He said; “It is a priority for South Norfolk Council to support the local economy and it welcomes bids from local firms and businesses.”

“The Council procures supplies and services on an equal opportunities basis and has a duty to ensure that it gets the best possible value for the Council Tax payer. Sourcing locally supports the local economy and promotes and protects local employment. A local supplier can result in reduced transport costs and quicker response times.”

Join the local supply chain at Meet the Buyer on 20 March. Full details page 44.

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE29 PAGE29

NORFOLK VOICE

LEPs begin to make a difference.

Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) are beginning to have an impact on business life and 2014 promises to be exciting years for the two bodies covering Norfolk.

Here, NV looks ahead to the next twelve months through the eyes of the two LEPs covering Norfolk.

n ensuring infrastructure, particularly road, rail and broadband is fit for business.

The LEP is already offering support including:

Many companies have moved into the Enterprise Zone since 2011 and all have gained from benefits, including: n Business rate relief

Funding The LEP Is inviting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Norfolk and Suffolk to apply for grants from its £12m Growing Business Fund to help companies grow and create new jobs.

Grants of between £5,000 and £500,000 are now available and more than 20 businesses have been awarded grants of between £25,000 and £500,000.

Norfolk Chamber Member FXHOME was awarded £30,000 to support expansion plans which includes marketing their unique and futuristic software to help the film and photography industry.

n Networking and partnership opportunities n Super-fast broadband and a simplified approach to planning.

Eunice Edwards, the Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft Enterprise Zone Coordinator, is keen to speak to anyone who thinks their business could benefit from moving in to the Enterprise Zone.

You can reach Eunice by emailing eunice.edwards@newanglia.co.uk or calling 07808 647203.

Green Economy Pathfinder

Andrea Wake operations Manager at FXHOME said:; “The investment from the Growing Business Fund has had an immediate impact on FXHOME, allowing us to create new roles doubling the capacity within the Marketing Department, and accelerate our strategic plan for growing awareness of our products.”

If you would like to know more about the Growing Business Fund visit the website www.newanglia.co.uk

New Anglia Board unveiling the draft Strategic Economy Plan.

New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership For the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, its Strategic Economic Plan is one of the most important and exciting initiatives under way in the region.

New Anglia has consulted with businesses and organisations across Norfolk and Suffolk to identify ways of transforming the local economy, creating jobs and establishing the area as a centre of business excellence in the UK and globally.

Having a single, focused Strategic Economic Plan will mean Norfolk and Suffolk are in a strong position to take advantage of the Government’s single funding pot for economic development and the new European funding programme.

The Energy Sector and Enterprise Zone The New Anglia region offers the broadest mix of resources for energy production and distribution in the UK, with the All Energy sector within the East of England Energy Zone employing more than 18,800 people. Over the next 20 years more than £50 billion will be invested in the sector in the East of England.

To maximise the opportunities within both the renewable and traditional energy sectors New Anglia has created an Enterprise Zone, part of the East of England Energy Zone, which focuses on growing energy-related businesses and creating high skill jobs. The Enterprise Zone covers six sites in Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft.

Construction of premises on the Enterprise Zone

New Anglia is the Government’s Green Economy Pathfinder, leading the way in demonstrating how economic growth can be achieved through the development and promotion of environmental sustainability.

For further information, please contact Green Economy Pathfinder Manager Marie Finbow by emailing marie.finbow@newanglia.co.uk or telephone 01473 264000.

The priorities of the Plan, which is likely to go to Government, at the end of March, are creating jobs growth through: n providing business support and funding n helping to develop skills that companies need now and in the future n developing the Green Economy n developing key sectors

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Hear from both LEP’s at our West Norfolk Breakfast on 9 May. Full details page 45.

COVER FEATURE

Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough LEP

£16.1 M

UNLOCKING

12,500 JOBS

GROWING PLACES FUNDING

ZONE SECURED CREATING

Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough LEP (GCGP) is in the process of negotiating, and agreeing, both its European Funding Strategy and Strategic Economic Plans with Government.

These two strategies will shape the economic future of the area, and could draw in a significant level of funding.

LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING FOR SOUTHERN ACCESS ROAD

£100,000 OF SFA FUNDING

INNOVATIVE

In addition to these two key negotiations, the LEP will be: n Launching a Local Skills Team in Fenland, Peterborough, Rutland and West Norfolk to better align local skills provision with business demand n Seeing tenants moving into the newly completed Incubator Building and other significant infrastructure developments at Alconbury Weald Enterprise Campus n Running the Year of Exporting to help companies make the most of overseas markets. n Launching the second round of Growing Places Funding, thanks to monies being paid back from first round recipients. n Finalising the Greater Cambridge City Deal. n Reviewing the results of the most comprehensive Skills Survey for our area to date, and turning those statistics into practical actions. n Selecting the preferred site for the Eastern Agri-Tech Innovation Centre and helping Agri-Tech businesses ac cess the funding programmes to support further innovation.

Mark Reeve, Chairman of the LEP, said: “Investing in economic growth is an important part of the work we do here at the LEP.” “For example, we have recently announced £5 million of funding for businesses and local authorities within our local area to help unlock jobs and accelerate economic growth.”

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

TO LAUNCH & SUPPORT TWO LOCAL SKILLS TEAMS ACROSS THE NORTH OF THE LEP AREA

8,000 NEW JOBS £4.6 M

FUTURE

£650,000

ALCONBURY ENTERPRISE The GCGP LEP team

CREATING

AGRI-TECH PROJECT

£76,150 (& RISING) OF GRANTS4GROWTH FUNDING

JOBS SECURED

COMMITTED TO THE EARLY UPGRADE OF THE

A14

£3.2M

REGIONAL GROWTH FUNDING

24

£50M

24 JOBS CREATED

£1 MILLION LEP PRIZE CHALLENGE

1,000 PEOPLE JOB READY

250

250 BACK INTO WORK

SKILLS | ENTEPRISE | INTERNATIONAL | INFRASTRUCTURE | ALCONBURY ENTERPRISE ZONE “We are able to launch this £5 million call for “With millions of pounds worth of new funding projects following on from a successful first round about to be channelled via LEPs we can have of projects that have repaid their loans.” a greater impact than ever before making it a really interesting time for the team.”

“In 2013, we provided £16.1 million of Growing Places Funding to a range of different projects You can find out more about the work of the to unlock their growth potential, with £5 million Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough being paid back already proving that this type Enterprise Partnership by visiting of funding works.” www.yourlocalenterprisepartnership.co.uk, emailing info@gcgp.co.uk or following us “Having been a member of the LEP Board from on Twitter @YourLEP the start I can honestly say that the work we are delivering is making a real difference.”

FEBRUARY/MARCH MARCH/APRIL 2013 2014

PAGE31

NORFOLK VOICE

CHAMBER NEWS

New era dawns for workers’ health.

Some of the biggest changes in the NHS’s history have taken place in 2013, raising questions around the future of treatment and care provision in the UK and causing a shift in how people will access healthcare in the future.

From rising dental price bands, to growing waiting lists for surgical procedures such as cataracts and knee replacements, the signs of change are already clear. As the NHS takes a step closer to its deadline of saving £20 billion by 2015, further shifts in service provision are likely to become apparent.

So what effect, if any, will these changes have on the health of the nation’s businesses?

As the health service strives to make efficiency savings, services classed as ‘non-urgent’ are likely to be increasingly rationed as the NHS focuses its resources to the areas of most immediate need – cancer and heart treatment.

For employers, this could spell an increase in staff sickness absence, as employees requiring ‘non-urgent’ procedures face a longer wait for treatment.

Paul Shires, Executive Director at Westfield Health, said: “The NHS is undergoing a period of immense change and, as we move closer to the savings deadline, some of the biggest shifts in service provision could be yet to come.”

“People may need to become more accustomed to self-funding healthcare if they want to access treatment quickly and return to work, helping to ease some of the growing pressures facing the NHS, especially with public health problems predicted to rise in coming years.”

Predictions made by The King’s Fund, an independent charity working to improve health in England, suggest that by 2018, 2.9 million people will be living with three or more long term health conditions – that’s a million more than in 2008 and at an additional care cost of an estimated £5 billion.

And, as life expectancy continues to increase, age-related conditions will become more

common, with one million people expected to have dementia by 2026, at an estimated cost of almost £35 billion.

Forecasts also suggested that by 2031, 46 per cent of men and 41 per cent of women will be obese, and the number of people in Britain with arthritis will have increased by a staggering 100 per cent to 17 million, according to the charity’s ‘Future of Health and Social Care Timeline’.

These shocking statistics may seem unimaginable now, but the huge strain that these sorts of health and social problems would place on both the country’s healthcare infrastructure and employers should be taken seriously today before it’s too late.

Paul added: “A rise in health problems, both physical and mental, would certainly result in more staff requiring time off work and, at a time when long-term sickness absence is already costing the UK’s private sector an estimated £3.1 billion every year*, employers will inevitably need to take more responsibility for the health and wellbeing of their staff.”

In 2012, Westfield Health launched Hospital Treatment Insurance (HTI), creating a new market in the health insurance sector in a bid to help employers tackle the issues facing businesses as the NHS continues to evolve.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

The product allows staff to avoid lengthy NHS waiting lists to receive ‘non-urgent’ treatment sooner. Combined with Westfield’s health cash plans, staff can also access pre and postoperative care such as physiotherapy and private consultations without worrying about the cost.

Paul said: “With our HTI and cash plan bundle, employers can provide their staff with a really valuable healthcare benefit that allows them to get back to health quicker, but also gives the company peace of mind that staff can get health problems treated and be back at work much quicker.”

Hospital Treatment Insurance is available to all members of Norfolk Chamber with five or more employees, either as a standalone product or, for more comprehensive cover, it can be used in conjunction with Westfield’s Chamber Primary Health Plan.

For more information about the Chamber Plan, visit www.westfieldhealth.com/chamber or call 0845 602 1629, available 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

*www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/jobs/9307888/Workersoff-sick-cost-UK-6.5bn-a-year.html

Knowledge Exchange Embeds Marketing Expertise

If you're looking to set the world on fire...

Low Carbon KEEP can help fund your business ideas and make them a reality.

anglia.ac.uk/lowcarbon

LOW Carbon KEEP is a funded knowledge transfer scheme designed to help SMEs in the East of England improve competitiveness, productivity and profits by working in collaboration with a UK University and providing access to a wealth of knowledge, skills Professor Teck Eng and expertise.

FLEX (UK) Ltd, part of the Software in Partnership group, is one such business that has benefited from this collaboration. It needed help to develop a sales and marketing strategy for its web-based HR system, YouLink HR, and expand into the competitive HR software market.

Through Low Carbon KEEP, FLEX (UK) approached the University of Essex to help develop its product. Together they developed a structured and achievable marketing and sales strategy, established YouLink HR as a brand and set up a pricing strategy and band of YouLink HR products. In addition, they analysed the company’s competitive environment and mapped its strengths and weaknesses, and embedded a marketing ethos and capability in the company.

Commenting on the collaboration, Norman Liu, Director of Sales and Marketing at YouLink HR, said: “We benefited greatly from the enthusiasm of the student associate asking questions about our business that we would never have thought to ask. Through this project, we became more aware of business theories and practices, so much so that we have identified missing knowledge gaps and have provided training to future proof the organisation.”

Through this knowledge exchange, FLEX (UK) has already begun to generate increased turnover. Marketing processes and activities are also receiving greater attention across the company and other products within the Software in Partnership group have benefited from the marketing know-how and skills gained.

If you want to find out more about how the Low Carbon KEEP knowledge transfer scheme can help fund your business, be sure to get in touch.

W anglia.ac.uk/lowcarbon T 0845 1964310 lowcarbonKEEP

Wish you worked here?

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James Allen or Graham Jones

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MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE35

NORFOLK VOICE

KNOWLEDGE

6 Ways to get noticed at work!

If you happen to be a natural introvert, the very thought of promoting yourself at work probably feels more like an unwelcome chore rather an opportunity to develop your career. Also, the Brits’ rather polite culture can make self-selling seem a bit crass.

However, there are moments in our working life when we really shouldn’t shy away from the spotlight – especially when everyone stands to benefit.

We all know someone who talks very loudly about their numerous accomplishments and, understandably, you may prefer to avoid becoming known as the office bragger. Yet, it’s very possible to get the attention you deserve

without over-egging it. And there’s even a place for subtly.

At Pure we meet very talented professionals from Cambridgeshire, Essex Norfolk and Suffolk who feel daunted by this aspect of career progression. We don’t want you to risk being overlooked at work; read on to find out how you can self-promote without feeling too pushy!

Lynn Walters Pure Resourcing Solutions

Sales - is it a dirty word.

Simon Tilbrook Q2 Action Ltd

It’s a strange thing that although everyone wants to get a great deal, save money and time – they don’t want to be sold to!

It’s ironic that there are lots of university degrees in Marketing & Advertising – but none in Sales!

When in actual fact every business needs to sell their products and services to survive!

Companies with great products and services to offer find it extremely difficult to get their sales

team in front of new prospects. There is a huge resistance to allow someone in to explain what is available. We are scared of being manipulated and don’t want to have to say NO. There seems to be a problem, or a gap that acts as a barrier to “getting your foot in the door” – or getting the opportunity to convert a Prospect into a Customer.

People are alike – we don’t really seek change and don’t want to be told what to do!

When making an approach to gain the chance to present your product or service, the prospect MUST see that there is a possible benefit for them!

Whatever means of marketing you use needs to create a question in the mind of your target – Can this help me?

The Food Information Regulations 2014.

The key messages for Food Business Operators are; n Make sure that the information that you have on your ingredients is up to date n Keep up to date ingredients information for any ready-made foods that are bought in (for example, packaging, or website details from your suppliers)

n Think about how allergenic ingredients are stored and labelled on your premises

A business’s Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) is one of their most important documents as it’s a set of documented detailed procedures to recover and protect a business’s IT infrastructure in the event of a disaster.

Every business that relies on IT Systems must have a Disaster Recovery Plan or risk going under.

If you cannot put accurate figures to the three points below, your company could be in trouble. n The maximum tolerable downtime (MTD) represents the longest period a business IT function can be unavailable before causing irreparable harm to the business. n The recovery time objective (RTO) is the time within which a business process must be restored, after a major incident has occurred, in order to avoid catastrophic consequences and loss of business operations. n The recovery point objective (RPO) is the age of files that must be recovered from backup storage for normal operations to resume if a computer, system, or network goes down.

The DRP provides an orderly sequence of events designed to activate alternate processing sites while simultaneously restoring the primary site to operational status.

The plan minimises the disruption of operations and ensures organisational stability and an orderly recovery after a disaster.

Managers must ensure that adequate programs are in place so that those team members charged with disaster recovery duties are well trained for their roles under the plan.

Start now - hindsight is a wonderful thing.

David Higgins ITSec

n Be careful of cross contamination- boards, utensils, serving spoons, woks etc n Thoroughly clean work surfaces and equipment, and wash hands before making food for someone with an allergy

n When preparing food, make sure you know what is in the ingredients you are using- for example cooking oils, dressings, toppings, sauces, garnishes- again this will need to be kept up to date n Ensure you staff are aware of allergens, and what to do when any ingredient or menu changes are made

Could you cope with an IT Disaster?

Sarah Daniels The RedCat Partnership Ltd

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Can you help others in business? If you know something that could help others - then share it on our website under our Knowledge section www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

MEMBERSHIP

Chamber Membership – it’s Big Thinking for smaller businesses!

Chamber, covering things such as data and legal expenses, has been known to be worth the cost of membership itself.

We constantly make the point that Chamber membership is not defined by, nor related to, the size of your organisation. It’s having a positive attitude that typifies our members, and working with smaller businesses I see that flair and positivity every day.

By Jason Williams Small Business Manager Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

The reality is though that sole traders, small businesses and of course start-ups do face added challenges. Chamber membership helps meet them.

Let’s start with start-ups. Inevitably, a new business will have a low profile and limited awareness. Contributing articles and news stories to The Chamber’s website is an excellent platform for promotion. It’s very cost effective too as your message will be spread through our social media network, including Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.

The Knowledge section of www.norfolkchamber. co.uk is really important, and it’s a two way street. You’ll find useful information and tips there, but by placing your own experiences and case histories into it you’ll gain credibility as a source of influence in your market sector.

With brand awareness growing, and the business developing, many small companies find that they need to address additional issues for which they don’t yet have internal resources.

HR for example is an area with implications for even a small team. ChamberHR gives you access to a lot of HR help. Aside from guidance from the 24/7 helpline, you’ll find the correct documentation you’ll need for many HR processes on our dedicated website.

It’s the same with legal advice and assistance.

We’d never suggest that we can replace a solicitor, but as a first port of call our legal department is a very cost effective resource.

In fact, the legal insurance you get with The

Being prudent will help you grow your business, but ultimately it’s down to finding more customers. The Chamber is the region’s premier networking opportunity. As a member you’ll make more contacts and do more business.

From the free ‘Chamber Sessions’ where you’ll gain knowledge from members’ expertise, to high profile events, you’ll enhance your visibility and gain influence.

All of these benefits are summed up in a very important symbol. As a member you’ll be able to carry The Chamber logo on your website and literature. It’s a clear signal that you mean business.

Being a small business is exciting, but demanding. Being part of The Chamber means you have the legal, HR, promotional and training help you need to stay focussed on your vision.

Chamber membership. It really does help smaller businesses be Big Thinkers.

Keeping you on the road to growth and saving money.

As a member of the Norfolk Chamber you have exclusive access to benefits that can save your business lots of time and money due to the combined buying power of the British Chamber Network.

In this issue I will concentrate on a newly updated 63% Discount on AA Fleet cover benefit that has the potential to save you hundreds if not thousands of pounds a year, keeping you on the road in 2014.

Our members are saving on average £600 per year using this discount with some large employers saving in excess of £1200 on their last renewal.

This deal is not just an introductory offer as this is a permanent deal which means you save money every year when you renew.

Now is the perfect time to take advantage of saving for the year ahead and make sure you’re getting the best rate possible for breakdown and roadside assistance on your company cars and other vehicles.

If you want to know more about the scheme then give us a call at the Norfolk Chamber on 01603 625977.

Below is a breakdown of the kind of saving you can get per vehicle using the 63% Discount

Up to 63% off Chamber Roadside Assistance provided by the AA †

Service Level

Roadside

Relay

Fleetwide 1

4

4

Fleetwide 2

4

4

Fleetwide 3

4

4

Fleetwide 4

4

4

Fleetwide 5

4

Relay Plus

4

4

Home Start

Accident Management

Offer Price

Standard Price

Saving

4

4

£81.32

£199.50

£118.18

4

4

£72.84

£174.00

£101.16

4

£59.27

£161.50

£102.23

4

£50.91

£136.00

£85.09

4

£42.55

£97.50

£54.95

£14.54

£34.00

£19.46

Fleet Europe

†Based on Fleetwood 3 Standard rates for 3-6 vehicles. All the above prices are per vehicle per year, inclusive of IPT (Insurance Premium Tax). Standard prices shown are based on cover for 3-6 vehicles. Offer prices shown are for any fleet size. All prices are subject to change. Fleetwide does not apply to: specialist vehicles ie taxis, mini cabs, hire vehicles, ambulances, DPVs (Disabled Passenger Vehicles), police vehicles, vehicles on tradeplates, minibuses, privately owned vehicles (unless used for business purposes), motorcyles and courier vehicles, or any vehicle over 3.5 tonnes gww.

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE37

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What we do know is that consumer choice and members of the public leading with their feet will design the shape of the legal market during this time of change. That means you have a huge responsibility to the way that you choose your legal service for now and anyone spending money or considering legal assistance should do just that, question yourself: what is the most efficient route to justice for you.

As with any product that you select in a market place whether that is a computer or suit, you want to make sure that you are getting the highest quality, most effective and the most cost efficient solution to your need. With that much power you really should be demanding those three things across all services.

You control the revolution; it is in your hands and you can now see for the first time what that has created.

For some time we have had different ways that you can get a legal service and this perhaps is now more uncertain than before. In the legal market there are a number of changes as companies jostle for position with what has often been referred to as “Tesco Law”. When you log on to the internet there is a whole host of companies offering different ways to receive this.

This can be confusing.

As a legal service, ‘The modern barrister’ is able for the first time to remove that middle process, but it offers an effective, cost efficient and high quality solution that builds your confidence on a very well-known reputation: the barrister.

Barristers until this time have kept quietly in

the back ground. Burrows Law Chambers gives you the barrister and is pioneered by a barrister wanting and creating that choice for members of the public. The choice of now being able to use ‘the modern barrister’ has come from understanding consumer choice. Barristers are known for their sharp wit, specialisation, highest quality, direct and solution based accuracy.

Barristers are also known for being the highest qualified in the country.

What is clear amongst directors, employers, entrepreneurs, and individuals is that they are looking for a service that has a resounding foundation within the legal profession and who knows about law. Trust is a huge part as is receiving clear and transparent communication.

Through Burrows Law Chambers and those that are selected to work as a barrister within our Norwich/national based company, you are receiving counsel advice of the highest order with a convenient approach. We encourage you to tap into a resource to set your case up against the other side in a punchy and practical way. That revolution is still in your hands, but you may just want to try Burrows Law Chambers to see if that could be where the revolution becomes the status quo. www.burrowslaw.co.uk and enquiries@burrowslaw.co.uk and 0845 154 8620

FEBRUARY/MARCH MARCH/APRIL 2013 2014

PAGE39

NORFOLK VOICE

FINANCE FEATURE

Newman & Co Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors

Landlords Targeted by HMRC A new scheme aimed at landlords who may owe tax was launched in September 2013. The campaign will run for at least 18 months and HMRC will allow landlords to come forward voluntarily throughout the entire time period that the disclosure opportunity remains open.

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

HMRC have confirmed that taxpayers that come forward voluntarily as part of the initiative will receive better terms and lower penalties in relation to tax due on their undeclared income than if targeted by HMRC. Landlords that are contacted by HMRC directly in relation to undeclared rental income will lose the opportunity to make a disclosure as part of the campaign.

Landlords can then face penalties of up to 100% of the tax due together with possible criminal prosecution if HMRC discover tax due on rental profits that has deliberately not been declared.

We offer a range of services tailored to suit our clients’ individual needs that include:

The campaign is open to all residential property landlords including those that have multiple properties and single rentals as well as specialist landlords such as student or workforce rentals, and holiday lets owners.

Please contact us to arrange a free initial consultation.

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

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.

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

W: www.newmans-online.co.uk

How to be an unpaid tax collector for the UK…and the EU Businesses selling services to consumers in other EU member states over the internet or related to telecoms and broadcasting will have to cope with yet another big VAT change in 2015. If businesses do not deal with this issue, their margins could be seriously affected.

Effectively you are being asked to be an unpaid tax collector for the UK and the EU! From 1 January 2015, a UK supplier of these services needs to charge VAT at the rate in the customer’s location.This will range from 15% to 27% VAT depending on the country your customer lives in. Businesses either have the option of registering for VAT in every member state their customers reside in or they can use a special system called a ‘Mini One Stop Shop’ (MOSS). Under MOSS, a separate return needs completing and a payment of the VAT charged to EU customers is sent to HMRC, who then distribute the revenues to the relevant member state.

Wayne Neale, Senior Manager

These changes will be a substantial change for many businesses and may create some issues around pricing.

Software is priced on a website at £20 including VAT.At present, UK VAT of £3.33 would be declared. From 2015, a sale to a customer in Luxembourg would result in £2.60 VAT being payable but a sale to a customer in Sweden would result in VAT of £4 being due.

Businesses affected need to start planning for the changes now as it may be necessary to vary pricing structures and change accounting systems.The MOSS can be applied for from October.

For more information contact Wayne Neale at Larking Gowen on 01603 624181 or at wayne.neale@larking-gowen.co.uk This article is designed for the information of readers. Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, information contained in this article may not be comprehensive and recipients should not act upon it without seeking professional advice. Larking Gowen is registered to carry out audit work in the UK and Ireland by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. Regulated for a range of investment business activities by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. ©Larking Gowen.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Established turnaround & growth team help East Anglian businesses to stabilise and develop in tough economic conditions.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The Parker Andrews Turnaround & Growth service is designed to work with clients that require expertise and funding to secure, maintain and improve their business.

such as a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) or Administration. However, I have always stressed the importance of clients seeking advice at the first signs of distress. As a result, we are seeing more businesses at an earlier stage which often enables us to negotiate with creditors and banks to avert a formal insolvency procedure and find a solution that allows the business to find stability whilst building a stronger foundation to grow from.

The team was established to work alongside accountants and other professional advisors to help their clients deal with the many issues facing small businesses. We also work directly with businesses to help them overcome the financial challenges of the current marketplace.

Jamie Playford, a Director at Parker Andrews and a Licensed Insolvency Practitioner with a Corporate Finance qualification, explains the service:

We typically work with businesses which have a good customer base but maybe have not had the funds available to invest in the business for the future. A typical client may be using its spare cash to pay down debt and may also be struggling financially, but that is not always the case. We have saved clients from the brink of insolvency but we have also worked with clients that wanted to grow their business but did not have the experience to know how best to go about it.

“As an Insolvency Practitioner, I regularly help to restructure businesses through formal procedures

For more information please contact Jamie Playford or David Morley on 0800 612 7593

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Offices in:

Cambridge Ipswich Norwich London MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE41

NORFOLK VOICE

APPRENTICE BROKERAGE SERVICE

Young apprentices – a key to growth.

Back in the 1800s Disraeli once said “The Youth of a Nation are the trustees of posterity” “You can get your money and you put it in the bank, or you can put it in the youth. You can put it into our future” Will i Am. Chris Reeve

From the 1800s Victorian society to the modern world of the celebrity, the importance of investing in young people has and will be ingrained in the fabric our society and politics.

It’s true then that this principle can be applied to business as the young are indeed our business of tomorrow but they can also help your business in the here and now.

With Apprenticeships, I found a way that I could take on an extra pair of hands and through them met my apprentice, Chris Reeve. Now I can focus on what I do best and Chris has taken over the bits I don’t have time for while he works towards gaining a qualification and actually works on projects that fit his skills set, not folding and sending letters all day!”

As the nation steps forward finally into economic growth, after battening down the hatches businesses will be ready to grasp new opportunities available to them with both hands but many don’t have the time or the resource to do so. In the last two years of talking to our members I have been repeatedly told that the biggest challenge to our small businesses is that they are time poor and can’t afford to recruit just yet. The solution that continues to help give a huge boost to a small business is to take the leap of faith that is investing in our young people as young apprentices.

To the surprise of many a business leader, investing in a young person had rewarded them tenfold as what they may lack in general work experience they more than make up in enthusiasm, boundless spirit and ‘out of the box’ thinking.

Over the last 12 months Norfolk Chamber has helped dozens of our members large and small to take their first steps in taking on their first ever apprentice and start reaping the rewards.

The key has been that having a young apprentice supporting your business has given the mangers and owners of businesses an economically viable way to spend more time to concentrate on growing their business rather than in the office or out on the site with the smaller yet vital tasks.

Robert Ashton, the Barefoot Entrepreneur said: “As I get busier, I find myself with less time to do the smaller tasks within my business, such as research or social media marketing – the tasks that ultimately help keep my business running.

Graham Footer CEO of Disabled Motoring UK comments on the impact of young minds in his business. “I am delighted that Disabled Motoring UK has once again had the opportunity to offer two young people the chance to join the organisation on an apprenticeship scheme. We know from previous experience that apprentices benefit the organisation in so many ways. Their enthusiasm, hunger to learn new skills and desire to prove themselves all add an extra dimension and gives the rest of the team here a real boost.

On a personal note, I get a huge amount of satisfaction that we have given a young person an opportunity to begin their work career, gain valuable experience and develop their skills.”

Jordan Jessett

Trina Beare Director of Lamberts, comments on the support received by the Chamber. “I have Chris to thank for introducing Lamberts to Apprentices. During one of his visits 12 months ago, the topic arose. Having little knowledge of the training schemes available to young people, I was very interested to find out what it involved and how it worked. Chris spoke at great length of the advantages and benefits of employing a younger member of staff on such an Apprenticeship programme.

In March, Jordan joined us as an Apprentice Warehouse Assistant. I have to say, it’s been a very positive experience for all of us. Jordan’s enthusiasm and commitment to the company has been unfailing from the start, and he’s become an extremely valuable member of our team here at Lamberts. We are extremely proud of him for what he has achieved so far, and look forward to being an integral part of his future career.”

If you want to look into how you too can benefit from taking on a young apprentice then let the Norfolk Chamber Apprenticeship Brokerage Service help you by contacting Chris Perry on: 01603 625977 or e-mailing chris.perry@norfolkchamber.co.uk

The Norfolk Chamber has made a commitment to support businesses by setting up the Apprenticeship Broker Service which is designed to help them consider all the implications of taking on a young apprentices, support them with finding the right qualification and One of the first businesses we helped was Lamberts in Norwich who ever since have not looked back.

By Chris Perry Business Manager

Their enthusiasm, hunger to learn new skills and desire to prove themselves all add an extra dimension and gives the rest of the team here a real boost.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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NORFOLK VOICE

The New Economy: Sustainability 2014. driving business to be the agent of change and create value for society, while sharing resource efficiencies. By working together we can redefine success in business and gain competitive advantage.

Business is the most powerful man made force on the planet and our delegates share a common value of wanting to be part of something bigger, being the change. Through a series of presentations, workshops and a showcase exhibition, our expert speakers from leading companies’ will share their vision for the future, be it through technological innovation, investment in sustainable talent and workforce or developments in agri-tech. Delegates will be inspired by those leading the way with clear vision for the future and translate ideas into action.

Businesses are continually seeking sustainable solutions and there is a unique opportunity to showcase your business’ products & innovations at a conference filled with enthusiastic, likeminded potential customers buzzing with enthusiasm for sustainable business practices.

In 2013 the conference attracted over 300 delegates and a sold out exhibition area showcasing new sustainable products and innovations.

Now in its fifth year, this dynamic, half-day conference is expected to be more popular than ever and has a clear overriding theme; The New Economy.

Leading Sustainable communities see a new sector of the economy, one that harnesses the power of private enterprise to achieve collective success. There is a global movement

If you are interested in our exclusive showcase exhibition the advice is to book sooner rather than later to ensure your place. Full and half size stands with early bird offers are bookable now, starting at £175+VAT. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your product or service at competitive rates. For full details and prices visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk The free-to-attend conference is at the John Innes Centre on Thursday 12 June and runs from 8.00 am to 1.00pm. Full details are available on www.norfolkchamber.co.uk to book stands.

What our exhibitors thought: “The event organisation was excellent… we had a constant flow of visitors who were interested in the services we can provide as independent consultants and have already set up follow up meetings which we are confident will lead to a significant amount of business.

In addition, the event gave us the opportunity to form relationships with companies whom we can work with in the future and enable us to expand into new markets. We consider the event to have been excellent value for money and look forward to exhibiting again.”

“The Sustainability Exhibition was an excellent opportunity to network with businesses & organisations both locally and nationally. Inspired Changed made several good contacts in our drive to support sustainability in the eastern region.”

There’s still time to strike. Meet the Buyer 2014.

‘Meet the Buyer’ - perhaps the three most important words in business. If you’re not in front of the people with the purchasing power to buy your products and services the entire marketing function comes to a grinding halt. Or even worse, never gets started.

And there’s no better way to get things started than by putting yourself in front of the region’s top purchasers at Meet the Buyer 2014. There’s still time to book your place and get up to five high quality appointments with key buyers, plus four expert led workshops, and a networking lunch.

Even in the digital age there’s nothing quite so exciting as face to face contact with people already predisposed to buying from you. And the meetings you’ll have at Meet The Buyer

Meet The Buyer 2014 is a unique opportunity to engage with the county’s supply chain. This is the Chamber at its most commercial, most connected and most confident. Another three words that mean a lot? Book. Match. Strike. Book your place. Match the buyers to your business.

Strike with the knowledge that you’re in front of a real sales opportunity.

are packed with even more potential. Not only have the buyers been matched to precisely your market sector, you’ll have the opportunity to further refine your contacts to those you’d most like to talk to.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Meet The Buyer 2014 takes place at NCFC Carrow Road on 20 March 2014. Book your place now. It’s more than an event. It’s a crucial part of your sales strategy for this year.

Open to all businesses. Full details www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

CHAMBER EVENTS

Diary Dates 2014.

MARCH Meet the Buyer 2014 WHERE: Norwich City Football Club WHEN: 20th March 10:00 – 16:00 WHAT: Meet the Buyer 2014 features 60+ of the region’s key buyers matched to the products and services you want to sell, expert industry-led workshops and unique networking opportunities.

There’s still time to book your place at this key regional supply chain event. Open to all businesses.

Better Business in Vietnam WHERE: Dunston Hall, Norwich WHEN: 25th March 15:45 – 18:45 WHAT: This event will cover the high growth market of Vietnam, which has a promising longterm growth potential and is forecast to be one of the top ten fastest growing economies in the next decade or so. Delegates will hear about the stability of the Vietnam market, the business opportunities available and important cultural aspects. Existing traders will offer delegates first hand first hand tips and advice. Sponsored by Dunston Hall & UKTI. Free to attend & open to all businesses.

APRIL A LEP Year: A Great Yarmouth Business Breakfast WHERE: Comfort Hotel, Great Yarmouth WHEN: 3rd April 07:30 - 09:30 WHAT: Join us in Great Yarmouth, for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast at our new member, The Comfort Hotel. Hear from Mark Pendlington, a board member of New Anglia LEP about the successes the New Anglia LEP has experienced locally in the past year and their aims for the next 12 months. There will also be plenty of networking opportunities to make new connections. Members only event.

After Hours: Networking the Italian Way WHERE: The library Restaurant, Norwich WHEN: 24th April 18:00 - 20:00 WHAT: Join the Norfolk Chamber for an evening of informal networking, with a tasty Italian twist. An antipasto plate will bring a relaxed spirit and friendly, casual conversation to your evening. Mixed with hand-picked Italian wine, antipasto is the perfect way to slow things down. Enjoy relaxed networking activities and making great connections over great food,

learn to ‘Network the Italian Way’. Members only event, but exclusive to the After Hours series – bring a guest who isn’t a member. The more the merrier!

MAY The Council, The LEP’s and Us: A West Norfolk Business Breakfast WHERE: Knights Hill Hotel, King’s Lynn WHEN: 9th May 08:00 – 10:00 WHAT: Hear from representatives of the two Local Enterprise Partnership’s that border West Norfolk, New Anglia LEP and Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough LEP and Cllr Nick Daubney, Leader of the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk about the successes they have experienced locally in the past year and their aims for the next 12 months.

Delivered with Cambridgeshire Chamber, join us at this breakfast for the opportunity to learn and network with a variety of West Norfolk and Cambridgeshire businesses and make new connections. Members only event.

Norwich Business Breakfast WHERE: Norwich City Football Club, Norwich WHEN: 15th May 07:30 – 09:30 WHAT: Join us in Norwich for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast. Make new contacts and learn key developments from our topical speaker.

Sponsored by Norfolk County Council, Norwich Business Travel Pack. Members only event.

and harness the power of private enterprise to achieve collective success. At this dynamic half-day conference our expert speakers from leading companies’ will share their vision for the future and expertise with you. Featuring networking opportunities, interactive workshops & an exhibition showcase. Full and half size stands with early bird offers are bookable now, starting at £175+VAT. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your product or service at competitive rates. Conference is free-toattend & open to all businesses.

HR Forum WHERE: Dunston Hall, Norwich WHEN: 18th June 14:00 – 17:00 WHAT: Join the Norfolk Chamber for an afternoon of accessing specialist knowledge essential for any HR Professional or business owner. Sponsored and delivered by Steeles Law. Open to all businesses.

JULY Norwich Business Breakfast WHERE: Barnham Broom, Norwich WHEN: 2nd July 07:30 – 09:30 WHAT: Join us in Norwich for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast.

Make new contacts and reaffirm those you already have. Members only event.

CHAMBER SESSIONS Free training delivered by Chamber Members, for Chamber Members at the Norfolk Chamber HQ, Norwich

JUNE

11th March

After Hours: Pub Quiz!

WHERE: The King’s Centre, Norwich WHEN: 5th June 18:00 – 20:00 WHAT: Join us for an evening of networking in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere as we take part in a test of your local and general knowledge.

With a round on Norfolk and on local businesses, you may be an answer to one of our teasers!

Take part in some relaxed and informal networking and perhaps be crowned Norfolk Chamber’s Pub Quiz Champions. Members only event.

Be Better at Presenting 8:30 – 10:00, Sarah Daniels, Red Cat Partnership 18th March

Be Better with Engaging Content 8:30 – 10:00, Richard Willner, Further 25th March

Be Better at Selling in a Tough Climate 8:30 – 10:00, Nial Adams, The PUSH Academy

The New Economy: Sustainability 2014

1st April

WHERE: John Innes Centre, Norwich WHEN: 12th June 08:00 – 13:00 WHAT: The New Economy is a global movement driving business to be the agent of change

8:30 – 10:00, John Jackson, The People People

Be Better at Motivating your Staff

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE45

NORFOLK VOICE

Super Bowl Challenge 2014.

There was a great atmosphere and competitive air as delegates finished work on a Thursday in January and headed to Hollywood Bowl for the Super Bowl Challenge 2014. A hard fought contest with 21 teams, delegates took advantage of the informal networking and team building. Price Bailey regained this year’s winning trophy in 2014 after losing it to Lovewell Blake in 2013. Lewis Brady, Price Bailey also scored the highest score across all delegates competing.

Robert Sparkes from BDO was awarded the funniest bowler with his ‘wrist flick’ technique.

Lucy Cage, Create Consulting scoring the most stylish bowl with her two handed bowling technique which achieved high scores for her team. A great evening with delegates set to book into the 2015 Challenge. “A massive thank you to the Norfolk Chamber for a great evening at the Super Bowl Challenge. We’re already talking tactics for next year!” (Leathes Prior)

Riding the waves of ‘Sales Success’.

In January over 50 delegates joined the Norfolk Chamber at the Sea Life Centre for a Great Yarmouth Business Breakfast called ‘Sales Success in 2014’.

Delegates heard from Elliot Symonds, Sales Manager at Jarrold Training, and learned his top tips for the 7 key techniques for closing the

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

deal. In this interactive networking breakfast, delegates enjoyed a host of networking opportunities by moving around the room and taking part in ice-breaker activities to get people talking & making new connections. Delegates then got straight in to practising the Duke of Wellington closing technique on each other. The event ended with an exciting tour of the Sea Life Centre.

Join us on the 3rd April for another Great Yarmouth Business Breakfast.

CHAMBER EVENTS

The Chamber meets the Norfolk Nine.

On February 7th, it was a full house as our region’s MPs met with local businesses. Held at Sprowston Manor, the afternoon proved to be both positive and constructive as MPs and local businesses committed to work together to raise Norfolk’s visibility. The host for the afternoon, Tim Youngman, Director of Marketing at Archant set the scene showcasing what Norfolk has to offer across all industries. Our Norfolk MPs spoke on the opportunity in Norfolk they are most excited about. Each MP spoke with energy, positivity and humour showcasing Norfolk as a great place to live and work. With eight of Norfolk’s nine MPs in attendance, Brandon Lewis MP for Great Yarmouth was called away on ministerial duties as the Flood Recovery, Fire and Rescue Minister due to flooding in the country.

Sponsored by Sprowston Manor and Abellio Greater Anglia, Jonathan Denby, Abellio

Greater Anglia said: “We were delighted to sponsor the Chamber’s “Chamber meet the Norfolk Nine” event with local MPs. It was an excellent opportunity for businesses, the Chamber and politicians to build links and exchange ideas on the key issues priorities facing Norfolk businesses and the wider community. We know that working in partnership makes a real difference to making tangible progress on the strategic priorities for our region.”

Andrew Dickson of Sprowston Manor, Marriott Hotel said: “It was fantastic to host the “Chamber meets the Norfolk Nine” event and encouraging seeing such a large presence from our business community. A refreshingly positive afternoon spent listening to our local MPs vision for Norfolk whilst participating in a debate on how our business community can work with our Norfolk Nine to orchestrate change and

shape our brand identity and visibility within our domestic and international markets.”

Towards the end of the evening, all businesses and MPs were in agreement when Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of the Norfolk Chamber asked for a show of hands of those who were committed to working with the Chamber to raise Norfolk’s visibility. All who attended left with a greater sense that Norfolk has an exciting future ahead. Richard Innes, Lees said: “How often does any business get to be in the same room as 8 MPs. This has to be a great event for any Norfolk Business.” Other businesses in attendance described the event as impressive and one which would bring positive results and ideas.

There was a great buzz and positive atmosphere as delegates and MPs remained in discussion even after the event was finished.

Chamber Session: ‘Be Better at Email Marketing’.

By Holly Stibbon, 101Smart In the first of the lunch time Chamber Sessions, Holly Stibbon, 101Smart gave delegates an energetic understanding into email marketing.

Holly emphasised strongly the legal aspects behind email marketing to ensure all delegates fully understood the dos and don’ts to their email marketing. She also gave delegates top tips such as the best times to send marketing campaigns, how to target your audiences and about the more personal touches to your email marketing. Gemma Neill, The Space, said it was a “very helpful ‘takeaway’ Session” adding that it was information she could “go back to the office and apply today!” Holly commented “It was really good to see people ‘get it’. Taking the thoughts and ideas, applying to their business,

asking questions and then the look on their face when they realised what they needed to do to improve. Very satisfying.” For more

details on what remains of Series 2, and for more information on Series 3 of The Chamber Sessions, please visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE47

NORFOLK VOICE

MEMBERS NEWS

Packaging group seeks new markets abroad.

STM Packaging Group, manufacturers of polythene mailing bags and flexible packaging, has been working with UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) to increase its international sales. Until recently export accounted for almost 5% of turnover, this is now approaching 10% thanks to UKTI’s Passport To Export program.

The programme enabled STM Packaging to research European markets using the Overseas Market Introduction Service (OMIS), this resulted in successful visits to Ireland, Sweden and Denmark, securing large orders and adding several new export customers.

Visits to existing customers in Belgium and Netherlands are planned to further strengthen business relationships, whilst Norway is to be the next destination to develop new business.

Luke Farrant, Export Manager for STM Packaging Group said: “A few years ago we did very little exporting, apart from occasional business with Ireland, but since working with UKTI we have become more committed to expanding our sales overseas. Working with our International Trade Advisor, Leszek Wysocki, we have identified potential markets, and UKTI has undertaken detailed research on our behalf in each of our chosen markets, which has been invaluable.”

Leszek Wysocki, International Trade Advisor for UKTI East said: “STM Packaging has shown great determination to increase its export business, and this commitment has been crucial to its success.

The business has taken care to thoroughly research each market in conjunction with UKTI and, as well as the recent trial order for Sweden, STM has won new business in its existing market, Ireland, following an OMIS report and has very good prospects of securing contracts in Denmark in the near future.

I am very proud to work with the company and am looking forward to continuing to help them increase their exports in new markets.”

UKTI aim to increase the amount of UK companies that export from current levels of approximately 20% to over 25%. This increase would add approximately £36bn to the UK economy.

Company launches new product.

Dragons, has been developed using a €20,000 cash prize from Imperial College London.

The ‘Fully Automatic Shower Power Booster’ has the same reliability as the manual version, but instantly reacts to water flow when a tap is turned on or off. Sales of £1,000 a day have been achieved since the launch of the pump last month, with over 300 of the new pumps sold so far.

Norfolk inventor and Dragon’s Den contestant, Alan Wright, who successfully launched a Shower Power Booster to stop the common problem of dribbly taps and showers, has now launched an automatic version of the pioneering energysaving product.

The new version of the Shower Power Booster, despite receiving no investment from the

Due to the increase in demand, and in preparation for an international export programme, assembly of the pumps will be moved from Alan’s home in Thorpe to the 100,000m2 factory complex owned by Flowflex in Derbyshire this month. To meet the volume of orders, Flowflex has set up an assembly line to manufacture the pumps. Flowflex earlier agreed a licensing and manufacturing deal in the UK. As well as product sales from the UK, Europe and across the world in areas including the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand and Africa, Alan is working with the ‘European Business and Technology Centre’ and UKTI to target and

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

support international export markets. India is the first area being visited as part of this programme with Alan travelling to the country early next year to help tackle climate change challenges and recommend the Shower Power Booster to help address the country’s problems with energy and water saving. The trip will be the first of many to promote this amazing product and will be part funded by the ‘Climate Kic’ programme and UKTI. Alan Wright comments: ‘I have nursed the product from invention to early production and development, but due to demand and international plans it’s time to hand over to Flowflex. It means that I can focus on marketing this product abroad and inventing new products, but I am determined to keep control of this quality product and continue to manufacture it in the UK. My long term vision is for international markets to produce the pump locally for their own market, and entering these markets with an established UK product helps enormously.”

The Automatic Shower Power Booster retails from £100 and can be purchased through the website www.showerpowerbooster.co.uk.

TAKE A BREAK

Ridley Pinstripe.

Sudoku Mar-Apr

It’s 7pm on Friday and normally everyone in the office would have been long gone for the weekend (by Thursday night usually), heading for wild parties, noisy nightclubs and drunken away days or, in my case, washing my socks and finishing that ready meal lasagne.

But this time is different at Barking, Madd and Madd because it‘s the eagerly-waited annual Company Awards night, sponsored by the firm to engender a sense of togetherness among the workforce.

The event happens in the main hall because the company says it wants to show how important the factory is and because, although the company may want to foster togetherness, it not prepared to hire a hotel.

But let’s be fair about this; they have made an effort and the hall has been bedecked with banners bearing the company‘s logo and the name of the firm in big red letters, spelled wrong, of course, but big and red all the same.

There are free drinks for everyone - tea, coffee, weak orange squash, take your pick - and some elderly sausage rolls and a couple of plates of what could be ham or possibly road kill. All provided by Lill‘s Gourmet Emporium and Snack Van, which is open again after that unfortunate incident with the squirrels.

An expectant audience has gathered; everyone is here except for Big Dan from Maintenance who did not read the memo saying that anyone who did not attend would be fired.

The ceremony begins with an inspiring speech from the MD, who says proudly: “Everyone in this company is important to us. Every single one of you is family” Glancing out of the window, I see Big Dan being manhandled down the main drive by the security guard, dropping the cardboard box containing his belongings in the process.

The MD then announces the first award of the night, Overseas Personality of the Year, won this year as for the last five by our owner, who was last heard of in a Caribbean prison cell after a misunderstanding about a bagful of laundered cash and some mercenaries from the West Midlands.

Answers in the next edition As the night progresses, so do the awards: n Green Practitioner of the Year: Micky from Maintenance for switching a tap off in the workshop (the company had planned to make it an award for the company itself but after that incident with the gas cloud the Environment Agency objected, certainly until the court case has been completed)

Sudoku Answers Jan-Feb

n Charity Fundraiser of the Year; Ethel in Accounts for giving back the Cancer Research UK money when the police arrived n Employee of the Year: Robbie the Apprentice for agreeing to work unpaid until 2019.

But what about you, Ridley, I hear you say?

Surely you must be in line for an accolade?

Cartoon

Well, dear reader, you don’t go into procurement for awards (especially not after I accidentally ordered 23,000 three foot square post-it notes after misreading the form) but, for all that, this year I think that I might be in with a chance.

Sure enough, the MD announces: “And now for the final award of the night, the What On Earth Does He Do Award? I am delighted that it goes to…’

I braced myself, getting ready to stride through the assembled ranks of my admiring colleagues, waving modestly and shaking a few hands…

‘Me!” concluded the MD.

Ridley

“I want you to find a bold and innovative way to do everything exactly the same way it’s been done for 25 years”

MARCH/APRIL 2014

PAGE49

NORFOLK VOICE

MEMBERS NEWS

The hunt is on for the best people.

As the brakes come off East Anglia’s reenergised economy, Norfolk employers are looking well beyond county boundaries to fill senior posts which are vital to their own business acceleration plans.

cost of living, the vacancies are increasingly drawing candidates from London and beyond.”

Mr Fletcher said the survey concludes that trend will continue as long-awaited trunk road improvements develop – the fully-dualled A11 is due to open during 2014 – speedier rail links and faster broadband speeds.

That’s a key conclusion of the 2014 Cooper Lomaz Recruitment Salary Survey, widely regarded throughout eastern England as a reliable barometer of employment and remuneration trends in the region.

Business is booming for leading independent recruiters Cooper Lomaz, as client companies’ needs for key management and senior staff rise rapidly. The firm has offices in Norwich, Bury St Edmunds and Lowestoft servicing SMEs and blue chip company clients.

“Cooper Lomaz’ own business revenue increased by 20% in 2013 and we expect similar growth in 2014,” said Operations Director Mark Fletcher.

“We have taken on 11 new consultants in the past year and anticipate we will increase our staffing levels by a similar number in the coming 12 months.”

“There are a lot more jobs around. The big challenge for us is to find people with the skill sets our clients are looking for. Employers are displaying more confidence in planning for the future, but many are frustrated by the lack of candidates with the niche skills they need to drive those plans forward.”

While the new-found confidence is funding modest salary increases across the board, the demand for key management personnel – in

“Faster transport links will also mean it is easier for people to travel between regional centres to work,” said Mr Fletcher.

Cooper Lomaz Operations Director Mark Fletcher (right) and Sales Director Richard Mould present the findings of the 2014 Cooper Lomaz Recruitment Salary Survey.

which Cooper Lomaz specialises across seven important business sectors – is producing spectacular gains for some. Those seven sectors are accountancy, engineering, food manufacturing, IT, oil gas & renewables, sales & marketing and the supply chain.

The big earnings winners are those with niche skills in engineering, Information Technology or energy or those with a wider more commercial/ strategic skills base, particularly in the areas of accountancy and marketing – and employers are searching long and hard to find them “The 2014 salary survey findings are a positive endorsement of the buoyancy of the East Anglian jobs market that there are a lot of quality positions paying good salaries which need filling,” said Mr Fletcher. “Coupled with the lower

Mr Fletcher said the survey highlighted that where employers are unable to fill permanent positions, they are increasingly prepared to turn to contract staff.

“Where the permanent jobs market is unable to provide the skills they need, more and more clients are willing to bring in someone in the short term,” he said.

The salary survey found that the sectors which present the biggest challenge are food manufacturing and the supply chain, where profit margins have long been squeezed by pressure from supermarkets. As a result, salaries have been depressed.

“The jobs are there but they are not paying as much as some other sectors. More needs to be done to establish apprenticeships and encourage graduates into the industry,” said Mr Fletcher.

The survey highlighted a further challenge – unemployment remains highest among school leavers and graduates and the rising costs of commuting makes finding work even more challenging for people in this demographic.

Green, lean or new machine!

Grants4Growth can help you cut your costs and your carbon footprint with our new capital and revenue business grant schemes. These simple, straightforward grants to fund efficiency improvements, reduce carbon emissions and help your business invest to grow.

n Based in Norfolk or Suffolk?

Grants4Growth is a two-year package of free, confidential and impartial support available to SMEs to help them reduce costs, increase competitiveness and resilience. It also provides capital and revenue grants to purchase/install efficient new processes, production facilities and clean tech and other direct assistance to promote products/services such as clean technology and renewable energy.

n Efficiency or green project?

n Small or medium-sized business?

n Investing in growth? n Considering new processes? n Looking into new technologies?

n Need technical advice? n Need one-to-one support?

Apply for your grant today and receive support of up to 28% and receive hands-on support from a knowledgeable and helpful local business broker to quickly guide your idea through the grant application process.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

For further details, take a look at: www. grants4growth.org.uk or contact Cassie Mant on 01362 656235 or at cassie@grants4growth.org.uk Grants4Growth is part of the Local Enterprise Growth & Efficiency Programme, managed

by Breckland Council. The main funder is the European Regional Development Fund via the East of England Competitiveness Programme administered by the Department of Communities and Local Government.

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corporate branding • logos • websites • leaflets • brochures • magazine design • marketing

NORFOLK VOICE

NEW MEMBERS

New Members.

Advanco Limited

07587 181538 Under construction Not Allocated

Bertram Group

0870 429 6666

www.bertrams.com Wholesalers/Distributors

Blue Sky Professional Development

01603 821177

www.blueskypd.co.uk Training Providers/Services

Bridge Training Centre

07824 425668

Training Providers/Services

Coleman Opticians Ltd

01603 624564

www.colemanopticians.co.uk Retail (Other)

East Anglia Care Homes Ltd

01953 600900 www.eachltd.co.uk Not Allocated

Eastern Financial Consultants

01603 431333

www.easternfinancialconsultants.com Financial Adviser

Heather Garrod

07747 441251 Not Allocated

Hexeal Chemicals Ltd

01603 604200 www.hexchem.co.uk Chemicals

Jack’s Clean Team

01603 292034

www.jackscleanteam.co.uk Cleaning Services (Comm/ Indus/inc window cleaning)

KTIB

01603 760511

www.ktib.co.uk Insurance Companies/Brokers/ Adjusters (all types)

LSI Architects LLP

01603 660711 www.lsiarchitects.co.uk Architects

MarshallCollins Ltd

01603 327117

www.marshallcollins.com Business Support Services

Onestop Webshop

01603 327323

www.onestop-webshop.co.uk Website Designers

Example Marketing and Web Design

Point Edge Face Consultants Ltd

01603 465525 www.pointedgeface.com Communications

Rockwell Industries Ltd

01603 765522

www.novocoworkwear.com/ www.novocoembroidery.com Not Allocated

Sandler Training

01485 525220

www.anglia.sandler.com Training Providers/Services

SEED Brand Marketing Events Ltd

07775 733444

www.seedconsultingcompany.com Marketing Services

Select Planning LTD

07884 559303

www.selectplanning.co.uk Consultancy/Interim Management

Smurfit Kappa Sheetfeeding

01603 679888

www.smurfitkappa.com Manufacturing (General)

Swains Plc

01485 524044

www.swainsplc.co.uk Information Communication Technology (ICT)

07736 030195

www.Examplemarketing.co.uk Marketing

GKM Watches

01945 665025

Watch & Clock Repair

Gurney Environmental

01553 776202

www.gurneyenvironmental.com Waste Management/Disposal

Find out about the benefits of being a Norfolk Chamber member. All information can be found at www.norfolkchamber.co.uk or email us at membership@norfolkchamber.co.uk

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

A WEEK IN THE LIFE OF

A week in the Life of...

Jack Bailey International Services Administrator

Monday

On Monday mornings we have our usual staff briefing to cover what we’re doing in the coming week which enables everyone to get a good idea of what other departments are up to.

Afterwards I get stuck into creating our weekly Business Policy update.

This involves collating and sorting all the most relevant business policy news for the week and combining it into a single newsletter. Once this has been drafted, approved and scheduled to go out I turn my attention to other export related duties such as studying our Carnet manual in advance of my upcoming training course on the subject.

Tuesday

Today is the day of ‘Better Business in Russia’ event and so, with assistance from the Events Team, I collect all the materials we’ll need to take with us to event and make sure we’re all good to go. In the afternoon we

head down to the venue to get set up. Everything runs smoothly during the event and delegates mention that they found the presentations given by our range of expert speakers to have been very helpful in explaining why Russia could be a potential market for their products.

Wednesday

Wednesday is a return to my normal day to day work as a member of the International Trade Department.

This involves checking export documentation that our clients send in for processing and advising them of any problems with their paperwork that needs to be fixed before it can be approved and returned. In between this work I also deal with incoming export queries from companies who are encountering specific problems. We aim to help them as soon as possible either by using our department’s knowledge of the field or by guiding them towards tailored resources which will enable them to deal with their issues.

Thursday

We have an upcoming training course next week and so I spend the morning preparing for that event. Delegates need to be contacted, materials prepared and paperwork drawn up to ensure everything is sorted out well in advance. Between my regular documentation duties I also receive a translation enquiry and so I consult our list of specialist translators and reach out to those who’d be best able to perform the work. After consulting with the client and confirming the details the translator is given the go ahead to proceed.

Friday

Friday is a break from routine as our offices are closed to enable all the staff to attend the Chamber Away Day. This is a staff training day that enables all the staff to not only better understand each other, but to give everyone a chance to collaborate with people from departments that

Jack Bailey

they don’t work with on a day to day basis. By utilising the different strengths that members of different departments bring to the table we explore how we can build upon the Chambers current success and achieve even higher goals.

Learning about working in museums.

Find out about Internship opportunities for those looking to studying the MA Museum Studies at UEA in partnership with the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts.

The School of Art History and World Art Studies at UEA is offering four Internships in partnership with the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts (SCVA) as part of the MA Museum Studies degree.

This course combines the cutting-edge research and curatorial experience of academic staff in the School with the professional resources and experience of the SCVA. It brings together in-depth historical and theoretical approaches to museums with practice-based modules addressing the public role of the museum, collections management and interpretation, with an emphasis on topical issues and responsive engagement.

The Internships provide students with £10,000 towards fees and expenses and those who are successful will undertake a programme of workplacebased training as part of a team at the SCVA, alongside their MA studies.

Other awards are also available to those studying within the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, including AHRC and MA-specific Scholarships, with deadlines falling between 1 March and 31 March 2014. Those who are interested can find details regarding eligibility and the application process on the University’s website.

PAGE53

PAGE TITLEVOICE NORFOLK

The last word.

Name: Duncan Johnson Company: Yodelay Biog: Yodelay.com is the evolving digital project launch pad of Duncan Johnson. You can download digital marketing apps for the iPhone, get involved with Open Source Digital Marketing Software Project if you are a developer, or sign up to one of Duncan’s digital marketing courses if you want to learn about the internet and promoting your business online.

Duncan is an Interim Digital Marketing Consultant/Director/Freelancer.

What did you want to be when you were young?

I wanted to be either a rock star or Captain Kirk.

Now that I’m an adult and seen how ill fitting Captain Kirk’s uniform was, I would settle for being a rock star.

What could you not live without?

Well, boringly I might say money and love but these days there’s an app for everything. You really can run your business from your phone and sort your love life out with a dating app. So even more boringly I would say my phone.

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

Not being one for rules and regulations I’m going to invite 4. Buddha, Steve Jobs, Occupy, and Richard Branson. OK so one’s a God, ones dead, ones a movement so that just leaves me and Dicky but here’s why they’re all invited.

I’m a Buddhist minded person anyway and since Buddha is omnipotent and omnipresent, he/she is going to be there anyway.

Steve Jobs, I’d have resurrected for the night because I’d love some of his genius to rub off on me and get an insight into where he would have taken things had he stayed on this level of existence.

Along with the Occupy Movement I would also have to invite the Zeitgeist Movement and Anonymous. All three of these groups stand for Human Rights and Freedom of Speech. Both of these are seriously being threatened by mega corps and governments and they have successfully defended your personal right to privacy and free speech on many occasions. Its a shame the average person is completely clueless to what these groups have done on their behalf.

Anonymous quite possibly wont turn up anyway since I wouldn’t know where to send the invites.

That leaves Richard Branson. He’s there to save on the lighting and electricity bill. He can stand in the corner and just smile all night. Actually he’s another hero of mine who continually demonstrates how to throw 2 fingers up at the status quo and established ways of doing things.

He’s a brilliant maverick and also a philanthropic figurehead for me.

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

This one’s tricky. I have an affinity for Morocco and the Marrakech Jam El Fanar, its mayhem and I love it. I love Vancouver, it was voted to have the highest standard of living in the world. You can surf in the morning and be snowboarding in the afternoon, and they love their sushi.

What makes you angry?

Bankers and the Monetary System / Ponzi Scheme they created. If you want to know where all the money in the world has gone ask the bankers, it’s not rocket science.

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

Bitcoin, at least it would go up in value.

What is the best thing about Norfolk?

Within 2 hours you can be in London, and three you’re in Brighton. I’m kidding. The best thing about Norfolk is the fact it is cut off and you have to have a purpose to come here. Which perhaps explains why an awful lot of the people I have met who are aspiring and entrepreneurial have indeed come from outside the region. The UEA has a lot to do with this and so there comes the challenge of keeping this talent in the region.

It also has a thriving digital community thanks to SyncNorwich.

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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

Being a geek, you might think I would say the internet and whilst I do believe this technology which has the ability to unite the world and bring people together can and will lead to global peace, I’m not going to vote it the greatest invention ever.

Scissors, they are the greatest invention ever.

Their design hasn’t changed since the day they were invented. It was perfect the first time. Their design has never been improved since 1500BC. Beat that internet.

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

Transcendental Meditation. Meditation when taught and practiced properly has so many physical and psychological benefits including; improved memory, focus, stress relief, brain function longevity, increased brain elasticity, and the promotion of a positive mental attitude.

I think it should be made a compulsory part of life skills taught in primary and secondary schools.

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

A Transient Orca. There are three types of Orcas or Killer Whales. The deep sea orcas eat crustaceans, hang out in the deep sea and we know next to little about them. The Resident Orcas also eat crustaceans but hang out in local coats getting their photographs taken by tourists. The Transient Orca though eats meat and earned the name Killer Whale. They travel all over the whole and although they have never harmed a single human being, Great White sharks are terrified of them. They have been recorded clearing massive areas of great whites and even filmed tearing them in two. Transient Orcas are truly the rulers of the oceans.

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