Norfolk Voice 34 by Distinctive Media Group Ltd

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UK and the EU – do the pieces fit together? Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MARCH/APRIL 2016

MAYJUNE 2016

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CONTENTS

Welcome! The British Chamber of Commerce QES results for Q1 were released recently. Norfolk’s results suggest that the Norfolk economy is on hold. Whilst the majority of the picture is static overall, there are clear indications that economic growth is continuing to soften. From sales and orders to confidence and investment intentions, many of the Norfolk business indicators are at a low ebb. However, there continues to be opportunities and we know from experience that Norfolk businesses are robust and are used to making their own success. In the background there is the EU referendum in June and the Chamber is holding a Business Debate on 10 June to really get down to the business issues. Details of this event and comments on the EU from our members can be found on page 26 Devolution is another important discussion point. Following the publication of the Devolution deal for the East in the Chancellor’s budget in March, views ahead of councils voting will be sought. While business is likely to be included in this wide-ranging research, it is vital that as businesses we feel we have a key role in the discussions now and ongoing, and identify what we need to be able to create and maintain the jobs to drive the Norfolk economy forward. We need you to work with us to achieve the best deal for business.

MEMBERS NEWS

Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

MAY/JUNE 2016

CHAMBER POLICY

BUSINESS SUPPORT

MEMBERS NEWS

THE BIG INTERVIEW

FEATURES

CONFERENCES AND EVENTS

CHAMBER EVENTS

NEW MEMBERS

VIEW FROM THE BOARD

MEMBERS NEWS

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

FOCUS ON FINANCE

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

MEMBERSHIP

THE LAST WORD

CHAMBER’S GOLD PATRONS

We are officially launching our 18th Business2Business Exhibition within this issue, although many of you have been booking stands already. It really will be bigger and better this year and we have listened to your feedback and will not have zones but more promotion and more customers! Please see enclosed supplement and get your stand booked now! I am personally determined, with your help, that our young people will not feel negative about their future if there is anything that we can do as a business community. Although we have our challenges, with the launch of Tech East, the development of Renewables and many fabulous business growing in Norfolk we need to really get our act together to help inspire Norfolk ‘s young people about their future.

CHAMBER NEWS

Norfolk Voice is a Norfolk Chamber of Commerce publication.

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NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Strong EU relations needed, in or out. With all the current focus being on Brexit or Bremain, it is worthwhile remembering that, according to historians, East Anglia was the last part of Britain to be physically attached to Mainland Europe before we decided to part company and float away. Interesting enough, the North Sea - which was formed when we broke away - is now home to one of East Anglian’s biggest opportunities with the world’s largest offshore wind farm being located off our coast and with further wind farms currently being developed in this area.

businesses, I am sure that everybody will have an opinion and it is important that, as the time to make a decision gets closer, we all respect each other’s opinions before and after the referendum so that we can get on with the job in hand, whatever that may be. It is important for the success of the economy that any political disruption ceases the day after the referendum and we all work together for the benefit of the region and the country. Whatever the decision on Brexit, it would be good to ensure that Norfolk develops a strong position within Mainland Europe again, and although it may be too much to ask for a physical link to be reinstated, there is no reason why we can’t develop stronger working and trade relationships with our nearest neighbours.

With respect to the current position with Europe, the Chamber has decided to take a neutral stance, presenting unbiased information to our members to help support them in making an informed decision, whichever camp they decide they are in. As member

Looking for more information before you cast your vote? Norfolk Join us for our EU Chamber of Commerce Debate on 10 June. Committed to Business See page 26 for more.

Jonathan Cage

President, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

120 years Pub Quiz.

On Thursday 14th April, we were joined by over 55 members for a Pub Quiz at The Unthank Arms, Norwich. In teams of 6, delegates competed to be crowned Norfolk Chamber Quizmasters 2016, as we tested their knowledge through the years. There were three rounds including ‘Celebrity Yearbook’ where delegates had a sheet with pictures of celebrities when they were younger and had to guess who the

celebrity was. ‘Historical Trivia’ which included 15 questions about the 19th century through to present day and the final round, ‘Guess the Intro’. During this round we played 10 very short song introductions and teams had to guess the song and artist. In the end, RG Carter Ltd (pictured) were victorious, winning with an impressive 53.5 out of 67 points! With Reed + Weep (REED Recruitment) came in a very close 2nd with 52 points!

Cocktails & Canapes. On Thursday 17th March, we were joined by more than 30 members for Cocktails & Canapes at Bond Norwich. Delegates networked over a glass of prosecco and in groups of 6 took part in cocktail making masterclasses, making either a Mojito, Old Fashioned or Pornstar Martini.

As the cocktail workshops began, we mixed things up with some speed safari networking which kept the conversations flowing whilst they awaited their turn to put their cocktail making skills to the test.

Take advantage of our informal networking opportunities with the next After Hours Event: The Networking Games & BBQ, Thursday, 23 June, 18:00 - 20:00 Oaklands Hotel Norwich. Book now www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/events

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MAY/JUNE 2016

ChamberNews SPS share how they diversified from the Oil & Gas Industry. On Thursday 7th April, over 70 Norfolk Chamber members joined us for a Business Breakfast at the Cliff Hotel in Gorleston. The morning focused on the Oil and Gas industry, and looked at how businesses can diversify in the face of economic changes. The first presentation of the morning came from the event sponsors New Anglia Growth Hub, who explained what support the Growth Hub can provide for businesses. Then our main speaker Fred Rogers of Subsea Protection Systems explained how his company have diversified to avoid the crash in oil prices. Fred told delegates how SPS had avoided a previous crisis in 2008 by diversifying into Windfarm Protection, which helped them recognise that price of oil could not be sustained indefinitely and therefore they needed to adapt further. He gave an overview of the

Fred Rogers, Subsea Protection Systems various industries SPS have now diversified into, including, coastal and flood protection, offshore tidal turbines and the farming industry. This subject was of particular interest to many of the members in the room as was shown by the attentive Q+A session.

Does this sound like something you’d like to attend? Take a look at our events section on page 43 to see what’s coming up.

Showcase the best of Norfolk business. series of regional heats, culminating in the national final, which takes place in London on November 24. Companies can enter seven categories, covering people development; international business; technology; young people; customer service and entrepreneurship. From local standout to national champion: the Chamber Awards seeks to put the best of British business on the map. The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) are once again inviting businesses from across the country to take part and showcase their talents and achievements through a

There will be regional and national winners announced later in the year.

The categories are: n High Growth Business of the Year n Education and Business Partnership n Small Business of the Year n Export Business of the Year n Commitment to People Development n Best use of Technology n Excellence in Customer Service

To enter: visit www.chamberawards.co.uk before 24 June.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

Chamber welcomes new Management Accountant. Louise Marsden is the Chamber’s new part time Management Accountant. On joining the Chamber, Louise commented: “I’m looking forward to working with a great team at the Chamber who do a fantastic job for businesses in Norfolk. There has been plenty for me to get my teeth stuck in to already such as work on budgets and the year-end accounts, not to mention working with the audit committee and Chamber Board.” If you would like to get in touch, please email louise.marsden@ norfolkchamber.co.uk

Chamber congratulates local businesses. Norfolk Chamber were proud to sponsor two recent awards. Congratulations to Vida Healthcare who received the Customer Care award at the King’s Lynn Mayor’s Business Awards (right), and Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden who won the Small Business award at the Norwich & Norfolk Eco Awards (left). MAY/JUNE 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MembersNews Team expansion for Reflection PR.

Reflection PR has welcomed a new senior member to the team as they continue to grow their leisure, tourism, food and drink expertise. With more than 15 years of PR and marketing experience, Angi Davies joins Reflection PR as a Senior Account Manager. Angi said: “I’m looking forward to working with a wide variety of clients and helping to develop the business further.”

Suzy Pettican, Managing Director of Reflection PR, said: “Angi first worked with me in my spare bedroom four years ago, so I’m delighted to welcome her back at an exciting time for the business.”

Vital funds raised for local charity Nelson’s Journey.

Riverbank Chinese Buffet Restaurant in Norwich helped make a significant contribution towards the ongoing work of local charity Nelson’s Journey. The proceeds of 40 meals were donated to Nelson’s Journey following a Chinese buffet meal in the restaurant. The total amount raised was about £800. CEO. Nelson’s Journey offer support to children who are suffering the loss of a loved one. Pictures on the evening were taken by Joe Lenton Photography.

Local commercial finance broker celebrates its 10th anniversary with national award. A Norfolk firm which specialises in finding and structuring funding to help local businesses prosper and grow has been recognised with a prestigious national award. B2B Cashflow Solutions, which has been a finalist in the Business Moneyfacts Awards for the past four years (‘Highly Commended’ last year and ‘Commended’ in 2014), this year became national winner in the category ‘Best Asset Based Finance Broker’ against stiff competition from eight other finalists across the UK. The awards were presented at the Lancaster Hotel in London on 17th March. Launched in 2006 by directors Ian Hart, Nick Flower and Simon Reynolds, who between them have nearly 90 years commercial finance and business banking experience, B2B Cashflow Solutions is an independent commercial finance brokerage and consultancy, based in Framingham Pigot, which

has developed a range of products and services to accommodate the whole-life finance cycle needs to support the growth aspirations for local businesses. Simon Reynolds said: “Our aim has always been to develop a brand which local businesses could trust and identify with to find and structure funding which helps them prosper. We believe our Business Moneyfacts Award represents recognition nationally that a Norfolk firm is leading the way in helping other local and UK businesses to achieve their own growth aspirations”. Specialising in finding cash for businesses, and restructuring existing funding for companies to reduce debt burden and improve cash flow, B2B Cashflow Solutions aims to deliver these solutions, often where traditional mainstream funders have failed, through a diversity of alternative markets, and works closely to support its banks relationships and other professional partners.

Increasing awareness of Norwich Fashion Week on digital signage networks. The Norwich Fashion Week promotion campaign went live on BBA Digital Media signage networks across Norfolk. Norwich Fashion Week was created in 2010 to celebrate and promote the vibrant fashion scene in the city. It brings together Norwich’s nationally-recognised, independent retail offering and the city’s thriving student fashion design community,

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

plus professional practitioners in fashion and beauty. The BBA Digital Media network increased awareness of the event, which happened between March 10th - 17th, hosting five different shows, the retailers show, the hair show, the vintage show, the designers show finishing with the fashion excess.

MAY/JUNE 2016

AdvertisingFeature

Over 100 NCLS Apprentices to Graduate @ Norfolk Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony. Over 100 successful apprentices from Norfolk Community Learning Services, will be invited to celebrate their achievement at the third annual Norfolk Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony organised by the Apprenticeships Norfolk Network and supported by Norfolk County Council. The event will be held at St Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall, The Halls, St Andrews Street, Norwich. NR3 1AU, on in July 2016 at 6.45 to 8.30pm. We believe achieving an Apprenticeship deserves recognition and should be celebrated in style so that the apprentices will remember, and rightly value their achievement for the rest of their lives. Our apprentices alongside apprentices from other training providers will enjoy an evening of celebration and entertainment.

a Foundation degree or Higher National Diploma. We offer quality Apprenticeship training which provides the knowledgeable, skilled and effective workforce your business needs. We offer competitive costs, skilled trainers and assessors and good success rates. Normal NCC Adult Education Contact details and the new email address: ncls.apprenticeships@ norfolk.gov.uk

Norfolk Community Learning Services are working as part of the Apprenticeship Norfolk Network offering apprenticeships from level 2 up to level 5, equivalent to

7 Norfolk

Recruit an Apprentice Find out more about our tailored on and off the job training programmes to build the skilled workforce your business needs.

www.norfolk.gov.uk/adulteducation 0344 800 8020

MAY/JUNE 2016

NORFOLK VOICE â&#x20AC;˘ THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Irish Society of East Anglia 125th Celebrations.

Ex-Serviceman Duncan Slater joins DMUK. 8

Disabled Motoring UK (DMUK) has announced that Duncan Slater, an ex-serviceman from Scole in Norfolk, has joined the charity as its new External Affairs Manager. In 2009 Duncan was on patrol in Afghanistan when the vehicle he was travelling in detonated an IED. The explosion caused him severe foot and leg injuries, which led to a double lower leg amputation. In 2012 he was medically discharged from the military.

so that their disabled customers will know it is suitable for their access needs. Duncan will also act a spokesperson for the charity. Duncan said: “My wife said to me last year, you got injured in 2009 and its now 2015, when are you going to grow up and get a job! So that’s where DMUK came in.

Since then he has been part of an ex-servicemen expedition to the South Pole organised by the charity Walking with the Wounded in 2013 – accompanied by HRH Prince Harry. He also ran the London Marathon in 2015 and plans to complete the Marathon Des Sables in April 2016.

“The one thing I can say is that driving and riding motorcycles has given me enormous freedom and driving was the first thing I was able to do after I came out of hospital which made me feel alive again. I now know the huge benefits of being a Blue Badge Holder, and can honestly say that having a Blue Badge and car adaptations makes my life so much easier and gives me the same freedoms all motorists enjoy.

His role at DMUK will see him tackle very different challenges, by engaging with businesses, organisations and government to promote the mobility needs of disabled people. Duncan’s role will also include managing the Disabled Parking Award which is an accreditation for car parks to achieve

“I started to work for DMUK at the start of February and I would say it’s the final piece of the puzzle, as I feel I am contributing by working for a great charity and I feel that all the issues that DMUK fight for and help to shape and improve is exactly the work I want to be a part of.”

US2U Consulting attend Change Management Conference. Rachel and Kerwin Blackburn of US2U Consulting attended a conference on ‘How to Meet the Crisis in Change Management Head On’ in London. Change management is a core US2U Consulting service and

this conference provided a fresh perspective on a constantly evolving topic that is becoming increasingly prominent in today’s business climate. Key issues to consider included how to engage and motivate employees throughout change, provide effective leadership and empower your workforce to ensure they maximise their potential.

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Chamber member, the Maid’s Head Hotel in Norwich, recently welcomed the Irish Society of East Anglia to celebrate their 125th anniversary with a St Patrick’s Day lunch. The society’s first dinner was held at the Maid’s Head, on St. Patrick’s Day 1892, so the society was back where it all began. Irish Society President, Maurice Connery, pictured with the Lord Mayor of Norwich, Councillor Brenda Arthur, is holding the president’s walking stick, passed down from president to president since the inaugural dinner in 1892.

Norfolk Chamber are also celebrating our 120th anniversary! Read more on page 44.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

We are working with Mr Lender! Tudor Lodge Consultants are working with Loughton-based online finance company Mr Lender. Founded in 2011 by CEO Adam Freeman, the company has become one of the most established lenders in the UK, with their mission to provide short-term credit solutions for UK residents, using technology combined with outstanding personal customer service - something which has seen them gain a score of 98% on Reviews.co.uk. Tudor Lodge Consultants specialise in Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) and their task is to improve the Google search rankings for Mr Lender for relevant search terms related to short term loans in the UK. MAY/JUNE 2016

MembersNews Price Bailey expands Insolvency & Recovery Team.

Accountants and business advisers Price Bailey has announced an expansion to its Insolvency and Recovery team with two new senior appointments.

nor(DEV):con 2016 a HUGE success! Paul Grenyer, Director at Naked Element and Founder of Norfolk Developers Ltd, is celebrating the success of nor(DEV):con this year. The event attracted more than 400 people, the biggest turnout since it began in 2014. There were international speakers, fully booked workshops and a great atmosphere over the whole weekend. This year’s new business speakers proved popular,

especially Chamber Member Ermine Amies’ ‘Time Bandits’ session, with delegates taking away practical tips and advice on how to better use their time, and Jon Bradford’s ‘Silicon Broad: Bridges not Valleys’ about the future of tech startups. The EDP covered the conference, which will be held from Thursday 23rd to Saturday 25th February next year, and already has a number of big names lined up.

James Chadd named Managing Director of CIS Group. Conductor Installation Services Ltd (CIS), an Acteon company that provides hammer services to install conductors and drive piles, has announced that James Chadd has been appointed Managing Director. James will be responsible for overseeing the fulfilment of all strategic initiatives, as well as driving day-to-day execution of business globally. “Having worked with James since founding the company in 2005, I am extremely confident that he will continue to build upon CIS’s solid track record of achievement and service excellence,” said Andy Penman, outgoing Group Managing Director of CIS. James Chadd

MAY/JUNE 2016

“In addition to his valuable skill set and in-depth knowledge of the global

conductor- and pile installation industry, his commitment to the growth and development of CIS makes him the ideal choice for this leadership position.” Prior to his promotion, James served as Group Technical Sales Manager for the past eight years. During this time he carried out business development and technical sales outreach in Europe, Sub Saharan Africa and the Middle East. Previously, he worked as Offshore Conductor Installation Supervisor before being promoted to the post of Technical Sales Engineer in 2006. Before joining CIS, he worked as a Conductor Installation Engineer in the field – both onshore and offshore - installing conductors and piles around the world for nearly four years for BJ Tubular Services.

Matt Howard joins Price Bailey from BDO Norwich as an Insolvency and Recovery Partner. He has extensive experience in dealing with all aspects of corporate and personal insolvency together with informal arrangements and turnarounds. Matt also brings experience in dealing with independent business reviews and solvent liquidations. He is a Fellow of the Insolvency Practitioners Association and the Association of Business Recovery Professionals. Stuart Morton also joins Price Bailey from the BDO Norwich office. Stuart is a qualified Insolvency Practitioner and his remit is to offer prompt advice and effective solutions when businesses and individuals face financial pressure and distress. Stuart has particular knowledge and experience in areas including retail, construction and manufacturing. “This is fantastic news for Price Bailey as it brings to the firm two big hitters in the East Anglian insolvency market,” said Head of the Price Bailey Insolvency and Recovery department, Paul Pittman. “Matt and Stuart will enhance our wealth of expertise which can be drawn upon to deliver the right solution for any given situation.”

Free 24/7 HR advice line for members, to help save your money and protect your business. Use it today on 01455 852037

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Chamber presents first Investment in Young People Awards.

Sprowston Young Chamber looks to the future.

In this edition, we are catching up with Sprowston High School’s Young Chamber.

Caroline Williams, Jonathan Cage, Vicky Webber, Mark Proctor

George Nobbs, representing Norse, Jonathan Cage

10 Lovewell Blake team

In our last edition, we announced the launch of the Investment in Young People (IiYP) award in Norfolk. Just a few months later, we are delighted with the amount of interest this has gained! To date, we have received 10 applications for this national award, which will recognise and celebrate the important work done by companies that help young people gain employability skills and prepare them for future employment. Caroline Williams and Jonathan Cage, President of Norfolk Chamber, were delighted to present two awards in recent weeks. First, they visited Norse and presented the award to George Nobbs, Leader of Norfolk County Council. Secondly, they congratulated the Lovewell Blake team, including Vicky Webber, HR Adviser, and Mark Proctor, Partner. Caroline Williams, CEO of Norfolk Chamber, said on presenting these awards: “The IiYP is an exacting award to achieve because an organisation needs to clearly demonstrate that they are being innovative in their activity in supporting Young People. This is a national

Norse team and Caroline Williams award and we would like to show the rest of the UK, through local companies being recognised for their work by gaining this award, just what a great place Norfolk is for young people to develop their skills. We congratulate the Norse Group and Lovewell Blake for being the first Norfolk organisations to gain this award.” Derek Kozel, Director of IiYP UK, who visited Norse to assess their application, commented: “Having helped over 400 young people with work experience placements, and 20 young people with learning disabilities, they are making a real impact on developing the talent of Norfolk’s young people. I am delighted to pass their application; the bar has been set high!” To qualify for the award you will have worked with a local school, college or education provider by engaging in activity that helps students for a better understanding of enterprise and businesses whilst gaining a range of employability skills. Any sized business working with young people can apply, as long as they can evidence their activity against specific criteria.

Following on from the successful Your Future Careers Fair at the school in March, the team are now planning their first networking breakfast, entitled ‘Developing Leadership’. Ryan Bedwell-Woods, Event Manager, said “We want to focus on the growth of leadership potential from young people up to Managing Directors and Chief Executive Officers. We also want to offer the chance to network, meet young leaders at the start of their journey, and hear from some key speakers on entrepreneurship and leadership.” Networking starts at 7:30am, presentations from 8am, to close with more networking and ice-breaker activities from 09:30-10:00. Ryan and the other members of the executive board (pictured) have been in post since the start of the last school year. Now they are looking to expand and recruit a junior board for years 7-10, which will be led by Charlotte Beach of the main executive board. Charlotte described that they are looking for “enterprising young leaders and ‘can-do’ people with an interest in business” keen to start getting involved in the Young Chamber activities, and hopefully continuing their involvement through their High School career.

“I am delighted to pass their

application; the bar has been set high!”

When: 07:30-10:00, 29 June

Derek Kozel, Director of IiYP UK

Where: The Space, Norwich

Questions? Email iiyp@norfolkchamber.co.uk Visit www.youngchamber.com/iiyp to find out more and complete the Application Form

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Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

To book: visit http:// sprowstonhigh.school/ youngchamber

Committed to Business

MAY/JUNE 2016

ChamberPolicy

Great Yarmouth Chamber Council review third river crossing.

Our latest meeting of the Great Yarmouth Chamber Council focused on improvements to local infrastructure, primarily the Third River Crossing near Harfrey’s roundabout. Tig Armstrong, Infrastructure and Economic Growth Manager at Norfolk County Council, delivered a presentation about where the plans are now, what the next steps are,

and how the Chamber network can help progress the project. Mr Armstrong outlined the route and proposed design, pictured above, timeline of the project, and the parties involved in delivering this project. Currently, thanks to the Local Growth Fund, £2m has been secured to see the project through to 2018. The focus now is on lobbying Government to secure an additional £3m to complete the high level design,

which is projected to happen from 2018-20. Ultimately, construction should take place from 2021-23. Summarising the meeting, Andy Penman, Group Managing Director of Conductor Installation Services and Past President of Great Yarmouth Chamber Council, said: “We calling for the Chancellor to support critical infrastructure in the area to help the growing energy sector, particularly to support the Third River Crossing.

If the Government can commit £3m in funding, to complement what has already been secured from the Local Growth Fund, it will secure the essential next stage of the project. Secondly, they would like clarification on how the new plans for apprenticeship funding will work for SMEs, to ensure the process is effective and not a burden on businesses.” Following the meeting, the Chamber have written to the Business, Energy and Transport Secretaries to support this vital infrastructure project.

Norwich Chamber Council help shape our work with young people. At the latest Norwich Chamber Council meeting, the main topic for discussion was the Chamber’s Young People business plan. Norfolk Chamber CEO, Caroline Williams, presented feedback on the Your Future Career events in schools, as well as outlining her vision for the Chamber’s increasing involvement in developing the talent of our local young people.

Three main areas for delivery were outlined: 1. Young Chamber – increasing our engagement with local schools and helping develop their business links and student skills to be better prepared for the workforce. MAY/JUNE 2016

2. Investment in Young People Award – now launched in Norfolk to recognise the important work local companies do to help young people gain skills and prepare them for future employment. 3. Creation of a Young Chamber Leaders Network – local business people to support the Young Chamber work. Keep an eye out for more details on how to become a Young Chamber Leader over the next few months. This will be a great opportunity for staff development and community work. After the main presentation, there was a ‘round the table’ session of business updates from each council member which helps share the experiences of the local business community.

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ChamberFX. 12

The British Chambers of Commerce have partnered with exchange experts, Moneycorp, to provide money saving foreign exchange to its members. If you have international payment requirements Moneycorp can offer expert guidance and bespoke payment solutions to help your business save money. Moneycorp is an award-winning foreign exchange specialist with over 35 years’ experience in the industry. Our market expertise saves businesses and individuals time and money on their international payments and currency transactions.

With a long history of providing foreign exchange, we take great pride in our great reputation for reliability and dedicated customer service. We offer further assurance that your money is safe hands, as Moneycorp is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the provision of payment services.

We work with a wide number of organisations from large blue chip companies to start up businesses trading overseas for the first time. The chamber members we work with range in size, from a large drilling company to a small start-up business, which have all benefited from our services. We have a team of dedicated dealers that provide money transfers at bank-beating exchange rates and offer free expert guidance on the foreign exchange market, helping our clients make informed decisions when moving money overseas. We offer free online services to businesses using our leading online platform – Moneycorp online – which has over 100,000 active users and enables you to buy currency, create transfers and send them globally 24/7. Our charges are lower than the banks, and our pricing is some of the

ChamberFX – Georgina Cope

most competitive in the industry, with nine banks competing for our business ensuring our rates are as favourable as possible. Our expertise means we act as a third party international payments supplier for many partner organisations, ranging in size from small traders to blue chips. Some of our more notable partners include the Telegraph, BNP Paribas and Post Office Ltd, to name but a few. To ensure our international client needs are met, we also have offices

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in key overseas markets including Ireland, France, Spain Brazil and the USA. The expanding Retail division operates bureaux de change branches at Gatwick, Stansted, Bristol, Southampton and Southend airports, and locations across Central London. The Wholesale team provides bulk foreign currency, not only for our own branches, but also for travel companies, airport retailers, cruise ships and private banks.

In total, last year Moneycorp handled more than 8.1 million customer transactions and exchanged more than £22.7 billion in currencies. Call us today to see how much we can save you on your foreign exchange and international payment activity.

For more information, please call 020 7823 7400 or email chamberfx@moneycorp.com. Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MAY/JUNE 2016

InternationalTrade International Trade Training Courses. Here at Norfolk Chamber we know how difficult it can be to keep-up-to-date with the world of International Trade and so to help you achieve success in this field we put on a variety of specialised training courses. Whether you’re just getting started or feel you need a refresher, these sessions will help to boost your understanding of the subjects.

The future is out there!

Overseas Construction and Engineering Opportunities By Julie Austin International Trade Manager, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.

I’m constantly trying to discover what export opportunities exist for our members, so keeping in touch with overseas Chambers is very much part of my role in the International Trade team. A round up of my recent discussions has shown that there are a number of construction and engineering projects planned around the world over the next few years. Within that sector they all represent opportunities for businesses in our region. In Brazil there are significant projects under way in highways, ports, airports and railways. Taiwan also offers opportunities in railways, alongside renewable energy, nuclear, and a range of initiatives including museum installation and sports infrastructure. Cambodia was my next ‘port of call’, albeit by telephone, where I learned that building machinery, equipment and materials are all in demand. So too are experience in training and standards, urban planning, architecture and engineering.

Public housing and new town projects, including hospital development and urban regeneration feature highly in the services being sought in Hong Kong. They have key infrastructure projects under way, including a cultural district, a sports complex, and work at HK International Airport’s 3rd Runway, as well as railway projects. In the Philippines property development is a key area, for both housing and commercial establishments. Meanwhile, when I talked with colleagues in Poland I discovered that energy is a prime market, with ‘green’ expertise much in demand. There’s a real opportunity there for foreign companies who could introduce innovative solutions or materials. Obviously I wasn’t able to travel to all of these places, (I wish!) but as a piece of desk and telephone research this snapshot of what’s going on reveals that there are opportunities all over the world for Norfolk businesses to explore and develop. If you’re interested, do contact us. The Norfolk Chamber International Trade Team can help you make a start by putting you in touch with the relevant overseas Chamber. Call us on 01603 729706. You can also find out more about export opportunities by taking a look at the Exporting is Great website at www.exportingisgreat.gov.uk Overseas business is vital to building our businesses for tomorrow and, as I think my latest research shows, the opportunities are waiting for you!

Forthcoming dates and topics: June 2016 16th

Letters of Credit / Methods of Payment*

30th

e-zCert Workshop

July 2016 6th

Understanding Exporting

Courses marked with an asterix form part of the British Chambers of Commerce Accredited Courses, which can result in a Foundation Award Certificate upon completion of 6 courses. If you have a delegate who wish to book onto six courses we can offer a 10% discount for bulk booking. Please talk to the Team for more details. Please take a look at www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/ export to book.

Did you know you could get 25% off training through the ETIP Scheme? Visit norfolkchamber.co.uk/etip

Hear from a Chamber member why they value our training courses… Are you interested in exporting to Dubai? Want to find our more? See page 44 for our next international event. Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

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“I have attended 2 courses this year, Understanding Exporting and Export Documentation. As the role of Export Administrator is the first time I have dealt with exports I felt both of the courses were very informative and

helped me get a better understanding of the job that I do on a day to day basis. I will be looking at other courses to attend in 2016.” Chris Skuse, Omex Agrifluids Limited

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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‘New £65m joint venture great news for Norfolk’ says Norse MD. Norfolk based Norse Commercial Services has launched its latest joint venture, a 10-year, £6.5m a year deal that will have positive impact for local employment, the supply chain and taxpayers according to Norse Managing Director Peter Hawes. Norse South East, a partnership with Havant Borough Council.

Peter Hawes said: “This new partnership is great news for Norfolk as our profits help Norfolk County Council maintain services locally. As all central services including HR, payroll, IT and procurement are Norwich based, it reinforces long-term job security and employment opportunities for our staff here in Norfolk. Some of the additional procurement

expenditure will find its way into the local supply chain.” “This is the fourteenth such partnership we have in the UK, and the first of its kind in the on the south coast. This means that we are a truly national group of companies, continuing to see long-term sustainable growth by exporting our services across the UK,” he added. Sales Director Geoff Tucker said that the launch comes at a time when Norse is seeing continued expansion. “This new company is the latest in a long line of local authority partnerships. In addition we have won over 200 new commercial contracts over the last few years, adding more than £40 million new business over the last two years alone” he said. An independent report, published in November last year, confirmed that Norse Group pumps around £129 million into the Norfolk economy through its services, wages and procurement of supplies.

Be a visible part of Norfolk’s Business Community

Norse Commercial Services MD Peter Hawes at the launch of Norse South

Norse started in Norfolk and today we’re truly a national success story, so we know a thing or two about the importance of visibility to local businesses. Increasing visibility of the commercial achievements of Norfolk will benefit us all and at Norse we are playing our part: •

Supporting local SMEs

•

Developing the talent of Norfolk’s young people

•

Encouraging the improvement of our region’s transport and communications infrastructure

•

Promoting Norfolk as an area of commercial excellence on the national stage

In this, the 120th anniversary year of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, Norse fully supports its key campaigns for our county; let’s all raise our visibility and continue our success story.

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Finding the right support.

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Many companies are exploring new and innovative ways of getting the job done as they begin to grow again. For some of them that can mean turning to outside business support, whether it be outsourcing sales calls and accounts or bringing in specialist HR and marketing firms. Done well, outsourcing allows companies to concentrate on what they do best, freeing up their teams to be more creative and focus on the job in hand. In addition, it can help them save money, become more flexible and manage growth more effectively. It also allows businesses to gain access to expertise and technologies. Increasingly, businesses have seen the sense in such an approach. There are plenty of established companies that can help and, with the reduction of the public sector and cutbacks by many companies, the area is seeing the creation of new enterprises run by skilled practitioners who, having lost their jobs, are striking out on their own. They bring an immense range of expertise to the table and it makes a lot of sense to tap into it.

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A design for life. Fergus Partridge, former creative director and founder of London design agency theFarm talks about building a successful design agency, moving to rural Norfolk and becoming a freelancer. What brought you to East Anglia? We - my wife and I - had been searching for a part of England to move to from London for years, but being constrained by the need to commute meant we were looking at counties fairly close to London. Then we discovered North Norfolk and I decided to sell out of my design agency and go it alone. That gave us the freedom to raise the children in this beautiful part of the country. How do you find life as a freelancer compared to life running a creative agency? On one hand it’s very liberating, but it can be frustrating at the same time. What do you mean by that? Well, running two offices in two countries with 25 staff is demanding. You’re always travelling, doing less and less creative work as the company grows, and spending a lot of your time managing staff and clients. So in that sense the switch to freelance is

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incredibly liberating - to do the creative work yourself, and to have sole responsibility for it. For me though the down-side is that clients find it hard to break from the established agency model. They just don’t believe that they’ll get the results without the traditional account-team infrastructure - and a big creative team. So do you recruit people to fill that perceived gap? Occasionally, and usually for specific skills, rather than workload. So I’ll recruit animators, coders or brand strategists when the need is there, but what’s tough is to convince clients that in most cases I can handle pretty sizeable branding projects by myself. How do you manage that when it’s usually handled by a team? It’s because I started at the bottom, teaching myself the basics of graphic design, then as the company grew I started to understand the broader strategic concerns of clients like Lloyds TSB, BBC and Sony, and began to help those people turn their business ambitions into brand strategies, involving campaign ideas and finding the language they needed to bring them to life. So, as Creative Director of theFarm, I ended up writing a lot, developing TV scripts and specialising in brand books and brand guidelines, where I’d often do everything from drawing a logo to advising clients on innovating retail customer experience, or overseeing other agency’s work.

The Partridge studio and family in Norfolk. Inset photo: Chris Taylor.

You mentioned earlier that you had offices in two countries. Where was your second office? In Prague. I did a lot of work in the mobile sector when it was booming in the early 2000s. A Czech start-up called Oskar asked me to help them build a brand to compete with the likes of T-Mobile and Eurotel (now O2). After several years of growing success they were bought by Vodafone, who employed our company to help them retain loyal customers and build a wider Central European presence. So we opened an office in Prague, recruited lots of bilingual Czech staff, and started to build a client base there. What kind of work did you do for big clients like Vodafone? A mix of consultancy work and hands-on creative execution. In Prague we initially created a massive brand-awareness campaign for Oskar/ Vodafone all over the country’s major towns, covering whole buildings in dual-branded advertising. At the same time in London we’d be making screen-printed fliers for Diesel out of old bits of leather we got from Brick Lane, or designing credit cards for Santander. It was always that varied. So a very different world to the one you work in now in Norfolk. Yes and no. The scale of projects is smaller, but the variety is still there. In the last year I’ve designed a limited edition set of playing cards, written and designed the new brand identity

guidelines for Wagamama, designed two art books, created a brand for award-winning London based tech start-up Freeformers, and designed the identity for a magic-based charity. Your working day must be very different though? Yes. I work all over the place. The Norwich Research Park is fantastic. If I need to concentrate on some writing I’ll often go to the Blakeney Hotel, and I also work at home, surrounded by empty countryside and busy children. I also like the train. People complain about journey times to London, but for me it’s a bonus. Three hours each way from Sheringham gives me way more uninterrupted work time than I’d ever get in a normal office environment. Finally, why do you have a bird in a wig on your homepage? When I first went solo, I thought I should have a really slick, typically understated designer’s identity. I tested a few ideas with a good friend of mine who runs ad agency 101/London, and he binned them all! ‘You have a really weird name - that’s gold dust. Just use it confidently and people will always remember you’ was his advice. So I secured my URL, bought a partridge, and made the most of my odd name. People seem to like it.

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10 mistakes new business owners make.

Jo Pyman and Jamie Playford Directors of Leading Strategies

Starting a new business is a lot like becoming a new parent – hard work, lack of sleep, lack of money, lack of time for going out and, hopefully, a feeling that in spite of all the challenges it will all be worth it in the end. It’s also like becoming a new parent in the sense that no matter how many books you read and classes you attend, nothing will quite prepare you for bringing your business to life. You’re potentially going to make a lot of mistakes, but here are 10 you can easily avoid. 1. Assuming there’s a market for your idea Don’t assume, ask and ask people you know who will be objective and honest with you. If there is genuinely nothing like your idea in the market, then find out why not. If there is competition out there then what do you bring that’s different? How much are people really likely to be willing to pay for your product or service? 2. Ignoring business organisation Whether you like it or not you will need to have some sort of structure to your business to ensure that everything which needs to be done actually gets done. It is also a prerequisite for ensuring compliance to any relevant legal regulations such as the data protection act. 3. Jumping into business with friends Business and friendships can mix very well, but only if the people involved share a similar vision and realistic expectations. It’s also important to be pragmatic about what workload you can take on, particularly if you have other responsibilities and to be clear about how finances will be managed. As a final point, it’s strongly recommended to have a plan in place in case one of you is forced to back out of the business for any reason. 4. Overestimating early sales There is a place for optimism, but in finance it’s best to err on the side of caution. Businesses

generally take time to gain traction and it can easily be a year or more before they make any real money. 5. Assuming you will get finance/outside investment A quick (re)watch of Dragons’ Den should be enough to show how often entrepreneurs are rejected by potential investors and similar comments apply to bank financing. Your chances of getting investment increase in line with your professionalism and the quality of your idea, but it can still take time to get recognition from venture capitalists and financial institutions. 6. Failing to budget for outside help There are several aspects to running a business and even if you are good at all of them, will you really have the time to do all of them? Even if all you do is outsource certain particularlychallenging tasks to freelancers on an ad hoc basis, you still need to assume you’re going to need to pay for help at some point. 7. Being bamboozled by consultants Some consultants are worth their fees, others less so. Some are better sales people than mentors. Really good consultants will be happy to share their track-record with you openly and give you time to make up your mind about whether or not you need their services right now. Be very suspicious about ones who push hard to get you to sign up there and then.

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8. Forgetting to network Network at every opportunity and if you don’t have the time, energy or money for it then you need to reassess your business and see what steps you need to take to make it happen. 9. Thinking online marketing is everything Even if your business is run purely online, be prepared to look at offline options for driving traffic to it. There is plenty of life left in real-world promotional tactics such as old-school leafleting or delivering talks (which you can then potentially repurpose as web content). 10. Analysis paralysis Yes you have to plan but you can’t spend your whole life planning. At some point you just have to take a deep breath and jump! If you are thinking of starting a new business or would like help to grow or improve your existing business, get in touch to find out how our team can help: mail@leading.uk.com / 0800 246 1845 / www.leadingstrategies.co.uk

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You’re hired! Abellio Greater Anglia employs ten new apprentices. A team of ten apprentices are on track for successful new careers after being selected to join train operator Abellio Greater Anglia.

Student Graduation 2016, a success for Blue Sky Professional Development. Blue Sky Professional Development held their annual Student Graduation at the Assembly House, which coincided with their 3rd birthday.

Students, their families, tutors and guests joined Kate Woods and Beth Russell, Directors of Blue Sky, for a celebratory evening of drinks, superb canapes and the presentation ceremony. They were joined by Steve Way, HR Manager with Aquaterra Energy Limited who gave a speech on the transferable HR skills required in a range of industries and what Steve saw as the future issues facing HR. Also giving a brief talk on the Chartered Institute of Personnel

and Development (CIPD) was Tony Chapman, Centre Development Liaison with the Institute. This year was another successful year for Blue Sky’s students with all 3 levels of CIPD qualifications being achieved, as well as, for the first time, the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management. Blue Sky Professional Development delivers ILM qualifications in Leadership and Management at levels 3 and 5, and CIPD Qualifications in Human Resources and Learning and Development at levels 3. 5 and 7 to students from across East Anglia from their offices in Norwich, and training venues in Colchester.

SMS launch new corporate website. SMS, a subsidiary of Alderley plc, has launched a new corporate website (www.sms-alderley.com). The website has been designed with a fresh new look, an uncluttered design and easier to navigate functionality throughout. As there is a general increase in the use of mobile devices, the website site has also been optimised for smart phones and tablets, which means that all visitors can access the website content on the go more easily. Dave Howlett, Managing Director – SMS, said: “Our goal is to provide our visitors with clear and accurate product and service information.

The operator has launched a bespoke scheme for 18 to 24 year-old applicants not previously in employment, education or training which will see the new recruits work in various roles across the company’s customer service department while completing a Level 2 NVQ qualification. The successful recruits were amongst more than 150 applicants for the apprenticeships. Their exciting journey will introduce them to a range of roles over the next 12 months including working in the ticket office, on the platforms dispatching trains and as part of the train presentation team. Bryony Bridgewater, 19, from Gorleston in Norfolk was unemployed for two years before being recruited onto the apprenticeship, which is her first ever job. “I am keen to learn and wanted a customer service role but

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Andrew Goodrum, Customer Service Director at Abellio Greater Anglia, said: “We are very pleased to welcome our new apprentices. This customised training course will offer a range of transferrable skills. The railway is a great place to work with a wealth of opportunities and fantastic benefits. We already operate a very successful engineering apprenticeship and this new scheme will help strengthen our customer service department.”

Global role for drug discovery enterprise born at Norwich Research Park. A business that grew out of research laboratories at Norwich’s worldrenowned John Innes Centre, has become a global force in the battle against infectious diseases and cancer. Inspiralis supplies vital products and services to businesses and academics working at the forefront of drug discovery and antibiotic development. It is one of a number of innovative new businesses that have prospered within the supportive environment of the Norwich Research Park.

The new website has been designed with this in mind and we feel that it delivers, giving potential customers the detail they need when considering SMS products and services before getting in touch direct.”

got nowhere applying for apprenticeships on my own. Ingeus really helped, and even if I hadn’t got the job, I thought I’d come a really long way in building my confidence and employability skills,” Bryony said.

Founded in 2008 to service the needs of professionals working in specialist areas of biochemistry, Inspiralis’ customer base spans the globe – and it is widely recognised as the number one topoisomerase company in the world. “A key element of our business is to supply the necessary tools and

materials to develop and screen novel anti-infective and anti-cancer compounds,” said founder director Dr Nicolas Burton. “The overseas demand for our services from research groups working in the pharmaceutical industry and academia around the world is so great that today 90% of our products are exported.” Inspiralis has continued to go from strength to strength, recently expanding into new premises at the Innovation Centre.

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MembersNews Whale of a Time Clothing has teamed up with leading local clothing manufacturer. Cotton World has announced a new partnership with Norfolk based fashion brand Whale of a Time Clothing, launching this year.

are being careful to make sure that each piece is high quality and affordable.” Cotton World has worked closely with Ellie to turn her initial design drawings into a reality, developing patterns and leveraging longstanding relationships with cotton producers to source high quality fabrics at the right price. Ellie surmised: “Cotton World have helped me through the whole process, always willing to sample and make small changes until everything is spot-on.”

Whale of a Time Clothing was founded in autumn 2015 by young entrepreneur Ellie Wales, 18, who is studying for A-levels in Textiles, Graphics and Geography at Wymondham College and models for Sandra Reynolds, Norwich. Ellie started her company with the vision of providing students with affordable casual wear with a retro-inspired twist. From a standing start, and using monies left to her by her late Grandmother, Ellie has achieved considerable success, commenting: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the public’s reaction to our products. When we launched our Fin sweatshirt this spring over 50% of initial stock sold in the first weekend!” In 2016 Whale of a Time Clothing has expanded its product offering to include new cotton

sweatshirt styles and a collection of cotton t-shirts, alongside headwear and accessories. Thanks to a combination of online marketing and attendance at national shows and events, Ellie is optimistic about future growth: “There are several new styles in the pipeline, all designed to compliment our existing garments. We want to grow awareness of the brand but

Cotton World Managing Director, Gary M. Holley commented: “During the first 6 months of trading Whale of a Time Clothing has established itself as an exciting new clothing brand in the UK marketplace, and we are proud to be a part of this journey.” He added: “This is a first for us. We’re exerienced in dealing with established companies on volume manufacture, but we can see the potential and are willing to take risks.”

First Australian franchisee for TaxAssist Accountants.

Avendra Narayan CPA has become the first Australian TaxAssist Accountants franchisee. Avendra, who has more than 45 years’ experience in accounting, business and finance has opened a shop in the Liverpool district of Sydney, New South Wales. Joining Australia’s newest network of accountants, and becoming its first franchisee held no fear for Avendra, who was attracted to the shop concept and business development initiatives offered by TaxAssist. Avendra said: “Many people will ask what makes TaxAssist so different? Really, it boils down to offering a more comprehensive, all round service, specifically for small businesses – if you like – a ‘one-stop-shop’.

JMS works with Spotify. One of JMS Group’s biggest clients, Adam & Eve DDB, the agency behind John Lewis’ “Man On The Moon” advert, requested the JMS team to work quickly with them on a Spotify campaign for their client, Volkswagen. Supplied with a comprehensive worksheet and scripts by the agency, JMS was requested to record, mix and supply more

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than 51 audio tags for a Volkswagen Golf Event campaign for use across the UK Spotify service. As can often be the case with campaigns, the turnaround was tight with airtime looming, so the mantra of the day was, “Link … Record … Edit … Mix … Repeat”, with the entire process being completed within six hours.

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Alan Boswell & Co – a company you can trust.

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These are exciting times for Alan Boswell & Co, a company that excels in offering high quality financial planning and which is continuing to grow as it helps clients deal with their financial planning needs, in particular recent changes in the tax and pensions legislation and implementing healthcare schemes. More and more financial advice firms are larger financial companies. It means they w Whilst its initial success was based but now that figure is nearer 50 per information on products their parent compa cent.” on working with individuals, the Norwich-based company has experienced increased demand for its services from businesses and, as a result, has just moved into new, larger offices.

Alan Boswell & Co., part of the Alan Boswell Group, has moved into Cedar House on Carrow Road, not far from the offices that it previously occupied. Managing Director John Whitehead said: “The move reflects our steady growth over recent years. We have seen growth of between five and ten per cent every year and needed more space to ensure that we are able to deliver our services effectively. “Although we deal with some large companies, much of our work is for SMEs. One of the big drivers has been the introduction of autoenrolment and we have helped a lot of small businesses introduce their pension systems. “Compliance is a big aspect of autoenrolment, especially for smaller companies that might not have as much in-house resource. We have helped some businesses that thought they could do it themselves and ended up facing the possibility of a steep fine because they got some aspects wrong. “We have seen our work for corporate clients grow steadily. When we started out, 25 per cent of the work we did was for businesses

To simplify the way the company handles its growing corporate workload, the decision was taken to channel all the corporate work through its London base, which has been rebranded Alan Boswell Employee Benefits.

It’s known as ‘restricted advice’ and an incre are operating in this way.

John said: “Clients like dealing with us because of our reliable name, which means they know that we have a track record of offering good guidance. They know that they can trust the service that they will receive.

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“I think it is also important that we are independent. We give the best advice we can without being tied to any specific company or product and our clients know that they will receive an expert service. “Another attraction is that we are part of the Alan Boswell Group, which includes the UK’s independent insurance broker of the year. We can help clients with whatever their needs are, from financial planning to general insurance. “We are confident about 2016. There will, undoubtedly, be a period of uncertainty if the UK votes to leave the European Union but businesses are getting themselves in much better shape than before the 2008 crash. We expect business growth overall throughout the year.”

John Whitehead Managing Director

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“Clients like dealing with us because of our reliable name, which means they know that we have a track record of offering good guidance. They know that they can trust the service that they will receive. I think it is also important that we are independent. We give the best advice we can without being tied to any specific company or product and our clients know that they will receive an expert service.”

Alan Boswell & Company Ltd authorised and regulated by the Financial Condu NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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Focus onFinance

Flood Re brings comfort to flood hit homeowners. At the beginning of April over 350,000 households became eligible for support from the newly established Flood Re. Flood Re is an insurance industry initiative put in place to ensure that people with properties in flood risk areas do not get priced out of the market or left unable to find an insurer that will offer them a policy. Householders will buy their insurance policy as normal. In turn the insurance company will pay a premium to Flood Re and in return

the organisation will cover the flood element of any claim, minus an excess of £250. There are over 20 insurers that have signed up to use Flood Re and this will increase over time. You can find out who these insurers are online at www.floodre.co.uk. In addition to the premiums paid by insurers to Flood Re, there will also be an annual industry levy to fund the organisation, initially set at £180m. Spread across the market this should not create a significant increase in premium prices for the average homeowner.

But for those with properties in flood risk areas, Flood Re will make a massive difference and it will ensure home insurance remains both available and affordable. As such it is a hugely important initiative. The support provided has also been structured to discourage developers to build on flood plains and increase the number of homes in these vulnerable areas. This means that only properties built before 1 January 2009 are eligible which will contain the liabilities that Flood Re has to bear.

For more information on anything raised in this article or to discuss your business insurance arrangements please contact Hugh J Boswell Managing Director, Peter Foster, on 01603 723581.

Tax efficient investment in start-up companies Investments into tax efficient schemes are a valuable source of capital for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). Statistics show that £12.3bn has been raised through the Government’s Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) since it was launched and over £250m has been raised through the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS). The tax benefits available to investors will be of interest to those looking for high future return with tax savings at the outset. For EIS share issues, the investor receives income tax relief of 30% of the amount invested to a maximum of £1m in a tax year. For SEIS share issues, the tax relief is more generous at 50% of the amount invested up to £100,000. The relief is given as a tax reducer so an investor with an income tax liability of £100,000 who invests £100,000 in a SEIS qualifying company will see their liability reduced to £50,000.

For both schemes, shares sold at a profit after three years are fully exempt from capital gains tax and capital losses are fully allowable when sold; it is also possible to offset any capital loss against net income. Capital gains on any assets sold can be deferred by investing in an EIS company. There is a similar 50% reinvestment relief under SEIS.

Greg Smith, Tax Manager

Investing in an SME is high risk so one should always seek advice from a financial adviser before committing funds; the tax savings available are often attractive to taxpayers who can shield themselves from much of the financial risk of the investment. However, a number of recent court cases have denied tax relief for investors so professional advice is a must.

For more information contact Greg Smith at Larking Gowen on 01603 723608 or at greg.smith@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. ©Larking Gowen.

MAY/JUNE 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Air charter company c SaxonAir Charter Ltd is a company on the up – literally. The specialist charter flights company, which is based at the Klyne Business Aviation Centre at Norwich Airport, is continuing to expand as it takes advantage of Norfolk’s growing aviation industry and the growth in offshore activity. SaxonAir own and operate a range of aircraft for charter, from worldwide business jets to Norwich based helicopters, as well as offering a range of aviation support services, including passenger handling for offshore helicopters, hangarage facilities, and aircraft sales.

Tasked with guiding the company’s expansion is Alex Durand, a former pilot who is now Chief Executive Officer. Alex brings a lot of experience to the job, having worked in a variety of aviation roles. Alex said: ”I’ve been in business aviation for more than 20 years, starting as a pilot then moving into management and consultancy before coming to work for Saxon Air. “I believe that being based in Norwich helps us. Our core charter work is from the UK into Europe, and in some ways Norfolk serves Northern Europe better than most other parts of the UK. “It has a surprisingly diverse range of strong industries and I’ve experienced a refreshingly straightforward work ethic.” “Like many things, though, its strength is its weakness – the sense of geographical separation allows the region to develop to its strengths, but there’s a feeling of self-imposed isolation. The challenge is often perceived limitations and potential can be compromised by lack of ambition.” Nevertheless, supporting the company’s growth is the development of aviation in Norfolk, as well as the gathering strength of sectors such as offshore industries.

Alex said: “It helps that Norfolk is developing a strong aviation sector, although it doesn’t have a strong business jet market and most of our aircraft are based elsewhere.” “The offshore industry is crucial, however, and allows Norwich to be a viable International Airport with a range of supporting industries.” “The new International Training Academy would probably not be possible without this base, but at the same time it would also probably not be possible without Norfolk; it is an unusual concept of aviation training that is backed by openminded thinking and strong regional backing.” Such a situation has given the company confidence to plan a growth strategy that can be measured in years rather that in terms of a quick-fix.

The course taught crew members the skills to successfully and confidently respond to medical events before, during and after a flight, integrating first responder training with the medical kits that are available on board an aircraft and is taught by instructors from medical, triage and aviation backgrounds. The result of all this attention to detail is a growing number of clients and a strong confidence for the years to come. Alex said: “We are looking to add further aircraft to our operation, attract new offshore helicopter operators to our business, and expand our portfolio of services and locations.” “We’re also looking to engage more locally. While we operate worldwide, Norwich is our home.”

Alex said: ”We are lucky enough to be backed by an owner that supports long term growth, and a highly motivated group of individuals that work hard to deliver a personal but professional service.” “Our industry is tough, highly regulated, with demanding clients and operational conditions, but because of our backing we are able to take on work that is right for the business, not just work that will pay the bills in the short term.” To further underpin its offer, SaxonAir Charter Ltd, which is now one of the leading UK based private air charter companies has recently invested in enhanced training for their crew on in-flight health and safety. The training ensures all staff on board are able to better deal with any illness or injuries that may arise mid-flight, in addition to their standard crew training. The course was held by MedAire, a health and safety company for crew of airlines in business aviation and yachts, and the crew qualified after a period of intense training at Inflite Jet Centre, Stansted Airport.

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BigInterview

continues expansion. “We’re also looking to engage more locally. While we operate worldwide, Norwich is our home.”

Alex Durand Chief Executive Officer SaxonAir Charter Ltd MAY/JUNE 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

UK and the EU – do the Norfolk Chamber will be holding a debate in the lead-up to the EU Referendum vote to give businesses clear information on the viewpoints from both sides of the argument. The vote will be one of the biggest choices facing the British electorate in a generation and the Chamber wants to give local business people the opportunity to hear from both the Remain and Leave campaigns in order to make an informed choice at the ballot box. Those arguing to stay in the EU as part of the Remain campaign say that a Brexit would cause damaging uncertainty to the UK economy and

threaten important trading links with European partners. Arguing that stability is all in business, they say that it makes no sense to throw away one of the planet’s strongest trading alliances. They also contend that much is already being done to reduce the bureaucracy traditionally associated with the EU. Those campaigning in favour of Brexit as part of the Leave campaign say that the UK economy would be the better for leaving. They argue that the UK treasury will be freed of its £12bn a year EU budget burden and that UK businesses will benefit from a less burdensome regulatory framework.

They also say that leaving the EU would allow Britain to trade more freely with the rest of the world and that Britain doesn’t need to be a member of the EU in order to do that. The East of England voting intentions, when surveyed at the start of 2016 by BCC, found that 55% would vote to stay in Europe, 34% would vote to leave, and 11% are undecided. The national picture showed the vote to remain would be slightly higher at 60%, the vote to leave at 30%, and the remaining 10% undecided. Norfolk Chamber are seeking to help inform local business people about both sides of the argument before casting their vote.

Want to hear from experts on both sides of the debate?

The Chamber is holding ‘Europe: The Business Debate’ on Friday 10 June in Norwich; an unbiased EU debate for Norfolk businesses to get the answers they need. Hosted by BBC Norfolk’s Nick Conrad, you will hear from national speakers on key issues which will affect businesses, and the opportunity to ask the panel questions and take part in roundtable discussions. The neutral position of the argument will come from EU expert Stephen Booth, Co-Director of Open Europe, the award winning EU policy think tank. Stewart Agnew MEP, along with another ‘Vote Leave’ campaign representative, will be joining us to bring you the facts from the campaigners wishing to leave the EU. We also have official ‘Stronger In’ campaigners joining the debate, names to be announced soon.

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When: Friday 10 June 14:30 – 17:00 Where: Norwich City Football Club Cost: £25 Members, £30 Non-Members. To book, visit our website www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/events

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

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CoverFeature

e pieces fit together? Here are some local views, including our members – what do you think? Join our debate on 10 June.

“From an employment perspective the prospect of a Brexit looks a bit like a storm in a tea cup. An EU exit will not change our employment laws overnight. EU employment directives are enshrined in domestic legislation which will not immediately be repealed and I rather doubt that there will be much change in the medium to longer term. There will be some incremental slimming down of EU influence via legislation and the judicial reinterpretation of existing laws. But there will be no big bang and we may become more attractive to foreign employers than our EU neighbours. With regards to immigration there will undoubtedly be an impact with a Brexit but it will take some time to work things out, negotiate the terms of our exit with our EU partners and plan what to do with the three million EU citizens already living and working here including those much vaunted EU citizen Premier League footballers!“ Jeanette Wheeler, Partner, Employment Team, Birketts LLP

“I am in favour of staying in – it is the only sensible option for business in the UK. The inevitable uncertainty following Brexit would hit confidence, leading to a general slowdown in the economy, which would hit both commercial and residential markets. The EU may not be perfect but the uncertain future outside is a much more frightening prospect.”

“For many the decision on continued EU membership lies between their assessment of the “cost vs benefit” analysis of EU membership and the uncertainty of what the fortunes of the UK would be outside the EU. For Norfolk Businesses, economic factors such as cross border trade, job creation and investment will have a stronger influence over their decisions than the more social issues of national security and immigration.”

“I believe we should remain in the EU. We are preparing young people and adults for work not just regionally but internationally. In the EU, we have greater opportunities for cultural exchange, learning and integration. We have much to learn from high-performing EU nations on their approaches to education and skills. They more effectively utilise apprentices, encourage mastery and rounded education and give technical education parity of esteem with ‘academic’ study. All businesses thrive only in times of economic certainty therefore for us to make the investments we need in higher skills we require the stability of remaining in the EU.”

“I want to uphold and protect the historic rights of the people of this country to make our own laws, set our own taxes and control our own borders. It is now increasingly obvious that this cannot be done within the European Union, which has little interest in serious reform. I will therefore vote to leave.”

Guy Gowing, Managing Partner, Arnolds Key

Simon Watson, Partner for Lovewell Blake LLP

Stuart Rimmer, CEO Great Yarmouth College

Richard Bacon, South Norfolk MP

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NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Grants that can help

Businesses are used to making their own luck and finding their own funding but there are often hidden gems out there. In this edition, we look at four key funds available for Norfolk businesses. Grants are awarded to a business for a specific project or purpose, everything from grants for energy efficiency, capital investment which leads to job creation or grants to support training.

Grants usually come from the Government, the European Union, local authorities and, in some cases, private organisations and usually you won’t need to pay back the money but they rarely, if ever, pay for 100% of the project. You will often need to match the grant amount with your own funds. Grants are for projects in the future so you can’t apply for a grant after you’ve spent money towards the project. They are awarded to businesses that need them and the test is ‘will the project complete without the grant?’

Read more about four key grants in Norfolk and their success - could they help you next?

Employer Training Incentive Pilot (ETIP). This supports businesses to upskill their employees by paying 25% towards the costs of the training, up to a maximum of £1,000.

which provides a virtual reception service including a telephone answering service and online appointment booking for health clinics.

The grant is awarded to the business and the training must be provided by a registered training provider. To be eligible, the training must be additional or for career development i.e it is not required by law or essential to the running of the business.

Managing Director Jennifer Spencer, who looks after a team of 11, was approved for a grant of more than £450 using ETIP to train her Officer Manager Jean Snowden in Level 3 First Line Management.

The grant will support Apprenticeships at levels 2-4, an accredited qualification between levels 1-4 or non-accredited training as long as it is not ‘in house’. One Chamber member who benefited from this grant was Real Time Reception, based in Cromer,

Jennifer said: “This really helps our business because by training our staff effectively, we’ll be more productive and more efficient. The grant has made the training possible.”

Mick Biegel, left, who manages ETIP says that “1,400 grant applications have been approved so far and ETIP is scheduled to run for a second year until March 2017. This is super news and the best possible vote of confidence to support Norfolk and Suffolk businesses to upskill their workforce.” Visit our website to find out more: http://norfolkchamber.co.uk/etip

To date, more than £900,000 has been committed towards training with more than £230,000 provided by the ETIP grant.

Stay up to date on the latest funding news - we have a dedicated section on our website: ww.norfolkchamber.co.uk/news/funding-news

You can apply for ETIP funding to attend our International Trade Courses. Find out more on page 13.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

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Feature

p your business grow. The Eastern Agri-Tech Growth Initiative. The Eastern Agri-Tech Growth Initiative funds a wide range of projects from large scale growth projects to innovative research and development. To date, the scheme has awarded nearly £4m across 47 projects in the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise Partnership (GCGP) and New Anglia LEP areas.

You must also show that the grant will create permanent long term employment, or protect existing ones.

From arable farming and new crop development through to remote technology, process engineering and food manufacturing, the scheme is keeping the region at the forefront of agricultural development.

One of the companies who have received funding is J.A Collison and Sons, one of the largest cut flower growers in the UK, based in King’s Lynn. Having identified a way to improve production efficiency, they were successfully awarded a grant to part fund the purchase of the Bercomex Furora: a fully automatic, robotic flower processing and bunching line to help grow their business further.

The grant provides up to 20% of project costs, a minimum of £25k and up to a maximum of £150k.

The J.A. Collison & Sons team, pictured, were successful in winning a new supermarket

contract to supply packed tulips as a result of the grant funding.

You can find out more about The Eastern Agri-Tech Growth Initiative and how to apply at www.agritechgrants.co.uk.

Growing Places Fund. n £2.5m for the new Innovation Centre at King’s Lynn which will accommodate and support new businesses in the town and surrounding area as well as create 65 new jobs.

The Growing Places Fund provides loan funding to help kick-start and support major infrastructure projects in Norfolk and Suffolk. The fund has already committed more than £17m on capital investment projects helping businesses and developers to create an estimated 5,000 new jobs and 2,000 new homes as well as boosting skills and opportunities.

n £500,000 to support commercial developments on the Barton Mills roundabout on the A11 in Suffolk with new road infrastructure and drainage. n £2m for Haverhill Research Park to enable the construction of a spine road to facilitate new homes and a future innovation centre and research park.

The fund provides infrastructure loan funding to projects that might otherwise have stalled or not started at all. The fund allowance is determined on a case specific base, up to 50% of the total project cost. One Chamber Member who benefitted was Pasta Foods. They received £2.35m over two phases to help finance a new world-class pasta manufacturing production line, pictured, including new equipment at their new Norwich site. Gordon Chetwood, Managing Director of Pasta Foods Limited, said: “The Growing Places Fund made a significant impact in accelerating our growth plans and has facilitated the installation of a of a world class facility in Norwich for us to grow our share of the UK pasta market.”

n £300,000 for a new conference and entertainment venue at Kesgrave Hall in Suffolk.

Other projects include: n £6.6m to go towards the £53m flood defences in Ipswich which will alleviate flood risk and unlock employment and housing land creating up to 4,000 new jobs and 1,800 new homes. n £2.4m for the Hopkins Homes Mulberry Grove development on the former HL Foods site in North Walsham, to improve infrastructure for a 176-home development.

n £80,000 to Norwich City Council, for work on the Norwich Aeropark

More information is available at www.newanglia.co.uk/growing-places-fund

Growing Business Fund. The fund helps businesses to expand by awarding grants of between £5,000 and £500,000. The grant is up to 20% of the total project spend. One job must be created for every £10,000 of grant (or part of) which the business receives. The project is designed to support capital investment and can pay towards the cost of buildings, machinery, equipment, fixtures and fittings and so on. Priority will be given to five high-growth sectors: Manufacturing/Engineering, Energy, Life Sciences, ICT/Digital Creative and Agri-tech. MAY/JUNE 2016

Chamber member Finn Geotherm, based in Attleborough, provide ground and air source heat pump systems to the commercial and domestic sectors. They have been awarded £37,000 from the fund to help them double the size of their offices, update their IT systems and acquire additional plant and equipment in order to meet growing business demand. The grant also helped them to recruit 8 new employees.

Businesses from other sectors can apply and will be considered on their merits. There are some ineligible sectors and the New Anglia Growth Hub advisers can provide full guidance on these.

For more information, call 0300 333 6536 or email growthhub@newanglia.co.uk – read case studies at www.newanglia.co.uk

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

AdvertisingFeature Your phone system is hacked, a staff member leaves their laptop on the train, a computer virus interrupts business for days. The UK government reports that over 70% of small businesses have suffered a data breach in the last year with an average cost to SME’s of between £35,000 and £65,000. Most companies believe it won’t happen to them, but ask yourself, if it did, could you afford this cost? Now considered one of the most dangerous threats, it is essential to ensure you protect you and your business against Cybercrime activities. Simple steps to help prevention include: n Secure your networks, phone systems, computers with firewalls and passwords n Change passwords frequently n Use Anti-Virus and ensure kept up to date n Educate yourself and staff on risk areas such as email scams and malware n Only use secure wireless networks n Protect your personal information, never give out details over the internet unless you know the site is secure n Use software to alert you of any exceptional activity, such as calls being made out of hours n Bar or limit Premium and International calls on your phone system

n Use suppliers who can monitor unusual activity

Claire Swain Mason, Managing Director at Swains Plc, commented that, “As we become more reliant on technology, the risks of being a victim of fraud are growing. Cyber insurance will give you the support and resource to manage

an attack after the event. Whilst safeguarding your business through taking the appropriate steps does not guarantee prevention, it is key to reducing the opportunities of fraud happening and limit the cost.”

Training company seeks out Cyber Stars as part of battle against hackers. Specialist training company Inteltrain is offering a programme to help organisations keep their digital data secure from hackers, by creating ‘Cyber Stars’ in each of their departments. The Level 2 Award in Cyber Security Awareness for Business helps people working at all levels of organisations to identify cyber security risks. The programme will allow them to take action to prevent the kind of attacks that have hit a number of high profile businesses over recent months, costing them millions of pounds and resulting in the details of thousands of customers being stolen. The attacks are costing global business more than £200bn a year. Inteltrain says that, rather than living in fear of an attack, businesses can take practical steps to prevent it happening. The programme, being delivered by Inteltrain in partnership with cyber security specialists Intqual-Pro, is a new qualification which includes practical

examples and scenarios to allow learners to train using real-life incidents. Those successfully undertaking the Cyber Star initiative will become an officially qualified representative tasked with ensuring the implementation of cyber security policies within their area of responsibility.

Nick Atkinson, Inteltrain Commercial Manager, said: “This training is critical. Data security should not just be about a small number of people, it should run throughout the business.” You can find out more about Inteltrain and its products at www.inteltrain.com

The training for the OFQUAL-regulated qualification is delivered by a range of former Government and HM Armed Forces cyber security specialists

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01485 524 000 swainsplc.co.uk

Swains Plc Connecting and Protecting Businesses

Spires Insurance comprehensive cover against cyber and data risks

Managed firewall Web content filtering Advanced monitoring systems including Solarwinds Phone hacking protection

Data breach Phone hacking Cyber business interruption Privacy protection Hacker damage Cyber liability Extortion

01603 964074 spiresinsurance.co.uk *Source: PWC 2015 Information security breaches survey on behalf of HM Government

Spires Insurance Services is a trading name of Spotlight Insurance Services Ltd (FCA registered number 616284), an appointed representative of Saffron Insurance Services Ltd (FCA registered number 302774). Registered office: 22 High Street, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1AX. Registered in England 829892.

www.easterntechnologyalliance.co.uk

Working together to connect your business A new alliance to change the way you manage your IT, print and communication. Trusted independent providers, with a mutual resolve to deliver the range and quality of business technologies you require. Simplicity is at the core of our service, with solutions sourced and maintained through three companies, working seamlessly together. Find out more about how we can remove the complexity from your IT, print services, data networks and telecommunications by giving us a call today on 01603 952002.

Focus on Technology

Giving the tires a kick. With most things in life, we like to know what we’re getting is good value for money – whether it’s a new car, a new pair of jeans… or indeed, a website.

that the people building your site understand the importance of general quality standards.

Does it perform well? Does it look OK? Will other people like it?

How does this affect design?

It’s fairly easy to answer these questions when it comes to material things like cars. You can take a model you like for a quick test drive, read all the relevant reviews – and give the tires a proverbial kick. But getting a solid feel for the quality of a website is a little more difficult. How a website looks on screen is a good first sign of its quality. But if you’re not an expert, how can you tell if the things you can’t see are up to scratch?

Make sure their processes include thorough testing against web standards, and that this testing is part of a wider quality assurance regime.

Coming back to our rather overworked car analogy, web standards are a bit like the safety and emissions standards all cars are subject to. They might mean a tweak to appearances here and there to smooth off the roughest edges, but most of the work is done under the bonnet.

One way is to make sure it adheres to web standards. And you don’t need detailed technical knowledge to check.

If your agency has an internal standards document, it should include a guide to help their designers meet them without compromising on design. Abiding by web standards should have little or no effect on how your site looks. Meet the standards, but don’t be restricted by them.

Web standards

So how do I test something that’s hidden?

The magic words to look out for are “W3C Standards” and “WCAG” – standards established by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to promote consistency, standardise code and ensure both accessibility and stability for websites.

The easiest way to check is to use an online validator – just Google “W3C validator” to give you a broad overview of how your site performs. This is the same tool your agency should use to check their own work.

Ensuring your site abides by web standards: n makes it more likely to display and behave correctly across all browsers, including future devices – extending your audience n should make both large and small updates quicker and cheaper n can improve its search ranking

Another option is to use a more user-friendly service. Google “nibbler silktide”, which provides a simplified (though commercially limited) report. Automated website testing is helpful as it can give you a good indication of how things stand, but getting an expert to check your site is always a good idea. There are plenty of third-party services who can audit your site quite cheaply, or for free – including us at ON. If you’d like to hear more, contact me at peter@osbornenash.co.uk

These standards are incredibly important. So important, in fact, that you should ensure that you and the people you work with not only understand them, but also improve upon them by making them a core part of your own internal quality standards. Internal guidelines should also include things like functional and security testing, and internal processes, like wire-framing and technical specifications. Web standards are the canary in a cage – letting you know

MAY/JUNE 2016

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Your business ideas and information are at risk! “Ask yourself the question?”

£75k - £311k

What is my business doing to prevent damage from a Security Breach?

is the average cost of a security breach to a small business!*

If the answer is ‘Expect IT team to deal with it’ then ask again. BE PREPARED!

SGS Legal don’t just negotiate the contracts that govern technology projects we also provide end to end solutions which include training and internet facing security products. Core areas of Cyber and Data protection solutions:

• Managed web tier security service

• Board briefing sessions

• Managed vulnerability scanning

• Incident response and crisis management exercises

• Network security scanning

• Penetration testing and simulated attack • Contract health checks

Core areas of our Technology solutions:

• E-learning training packages

• Payments and card agreements

Data Protection

• Outsourcing agreements

Information security

• Advice on protecting innovative technologies

Cyber and Data Protection for Executives

• Licensing agreements • Cloud computing agreements

*Source: PWC 2015 Information security breaches survey on behalf of HM Government

For more information contact Stuart on 0333 600 5151 or visit www.sgslegal.com

Focus on Technology

Level the playing field. In today’s global market, both large and small businesses are increasingly competing against one another. And it is technology that is helping this mid-market to level the playing field; enabling them to offer more to the consumer and gain parity in many important areas. Technology advancements such as cloud systems, enhanced security, and remote working mean that small businesses can project their efficiency, resulting in a team more effectively competing with larger businesses. These innovations give SMEs access to the much needed resources and tools used by their global sized competitors. Never before in business has this level of equality been available for SMEs, and one of the most

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instrumental ways this can be achieved is through the use of an effective and integrated CRM system. By using a good CRM system, like OpenCRM, businesses of all sizes can fully integrate all their company’s data and information from across all of their departments. This will give you a rich, detailed, and all encompassing perspective of your customers, the status of your business and ensures your team is aligned at all times. A CRM system provides the same tools and templates whatever your size of business, as we all require similar things. You could be a oneman band or a growing team of 20, but the software you require is still the same as the larger corporates. Utilising a CRM system can actually result in the smaller companies becoming more connected to their customers. Larger companies often struggle with this crucial personal touch, due to their sheer size. In SMEs, employees often need to be able to wear a number of hats,

picking up a variety of roles within the company. It’s not a bad thing but can cause some stress if they are also having to use a different system for each of these roles. By using a CRM system they can consistently perform all the jobs on their todo list in one place. Centralised systems are the perfect way to share information, enabling your team to download, share, communicate, and access data at a moment’s notice, in a safe and secure way. By implementing a CRM system, small businesses can understand their customers more, analysing their data in the same way as a global corporation would, enabling an SME to grow quicker and expand their customer base at a faster rate. By working at this same level, whatever the size of business, demonstrates how a small team can share the same knowledge and expertise to that of the larger company and in many cases entice customers away from them.

customers and their team more efficiently. Using this real time information means that SMEs now have the same quality of data as the larger firms, but for a lower cost and more emphasis on a connected approach between the small business and its clients, something the larger companies will struggle to achieve. Levelling the playing field indeed. If you have any questions about OpenCRM, please get in touch. I would love to hear from you. Find us at www.opencrm.co.uk or drop us a line at hello@opencrm.co.uk

Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems

An effective CRM system enables small businesses to connect with

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

AdvertisingFeature

Face-to-face contact the key in the world of conferences.

The conferences and event sector is booming at the moment, creating jobs and bringing investment to a wide range of venues. An industry which employs more than 550,000 people, the UK events sector is estimated to contribute more than £36 billion to the UK economy each year with the Business Visits and Events Partnership having forecast that the figure will grow to £48.4 billion by 2020.

The main reason for the sector’s success, according to industry experts, is its ability to constantly try out new things while never losing touch with the needs of its clients. Those clients say that, amid all the innovation and clever technology, the main reason they like conferences is their ability to provide face-to-face contacts. Anyone in business will tell you that, despite the rapid advances in communications technology, face-to-face contact remains the best way of bringing in new contracts and retaining existing ones; humans still have a fundamental need to look each other in the eye when communicating despite the rapid growth of the Internet. The key to making such events a success is spending a little time choosing the right venue and making sure that you get the right support from its staff.

CREATE CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS

www.bonboncommunications.com BonBon Communications & Events Ltd @bonboncomms

Even if that may mean paying a little extra, it is money well spent because it does not make sense to cut corners when such an approach could make your event less than effective. When assessing the venue, be it a specialist conference centre or the likes of hotels, you are looking for a number of important factors. Can the venue cope with the numbers expected to attend, has it got a good meeting room, will it provide equipment like projectors and Internet access, are the staff friendly and flexible in helping you meet your needs? If the answers to those questions are yes then the event is likely to be a success.

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Conferences&Events Shell schemes are about to get much more interesting! Introducing LINK2 Link unlimited banners seamlessly Link around corners and wall returns First roller banner with user interchangeable graphics Patented self-levelling alignment and tension system for uneven floors Ideal solution for lining shell schemes Banners can be used individually Integrated LED lighting

EXHIBITIONS | GRAPHICS | DISPLAYS | DESIGN | EVENTS

Looking for inspiration, creativity, ideas and ways to engage your delegates? Here at Sprowston Manor, let us inspire you! Our dedicated events team will create and design the perfect meeting space and atmosphere for you and your guests from the choice of our 12 meeting rooms. With free flowing Starbucks© coffee and extensive menu options, we will be sure to make your meeting a memorable one.

All from just £32 per day delegate

Please call 01603 254212 to book your meeting or for more information.

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AdvertisingFeature Hold your event at the Green Britain Centre We host a range of events at our eco-building for businesses and community groups – whether you’re looking for a meeting room for two, or a venue for two hundred, we’ve got it covered. Our dedicated events team will make sure your event runs smoothly.

To book your event please call us on 01760 726 736. www.greenbritaincentre.co.uk

The Green Britain Centre, Turbine Way, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 7HT

Murray Edwards College Offers Two Conference Centres In One

Murray Edwards College, Cambridge offers two self-contained conference centres on one site.

attractive outdoor deck and additional syndicate rooms are available upstairs.

Easily accessible from the A14 and a convenient distance between Norfolk and London, the College also benefits from free on-site parking.

The Kaetsu Centre is a light-filled, elegant building, comprising eight flexible meeting rooms and a Foyer located over four floors. Its Lecture Theatre seats 150 delegates and includes a range of AV equipment and theatre-style lighting.

Buckingham House is a modern and flexible conference centre, with a registration desk located in the airy Foyer, which leads to the refreshments servery. Both Lecture Theatre (seats 140) and Seminar Room (seats 60) have HD projection. Sliding doors open onto an

The College has a total of 159 en suite bedrooms, singles and twins available, including 35 in Buckingham House and 12 in the Kaetsu Centre.

Tel: 01223 762267 Email: events@murrayedwards.cam.ac.uk Web: www.murrayedwardsevents.com

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Conferencing

Co m

• Meeting facilities for 2 to 72 dele • On site catering

• Ideally situated between Norwic Cambridge, Kings Lynn and Bur

• Good road and rail links, On site Telephone: 01842 768300

Email: bookings@keystonetrust.org.uk Website: www.keystonetrust.org.uk/business

Keystone Innovation Centre, Croxton

Conference and Meeting Venue l Meeting facilities for 2 to 72 delegates

l Good road and rail links

l On site catering

l On site parking

l Thetford is ideally situated between Norwich, Cambridge, Kings Lynn and Bury

l Free Wifi

Office space to rent • Modern serviced offices • 20-450sqm • 30 minutes from Cambridge and Norwich • On site parking • Fibre internet

Telephone: 01842 768300 MAY/JUNE 2016

Email: bookings@keystonetrust.org.uk Website: www.keystonetrust.org.uk/business NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Keystone Innovation Centre, Croxton Road, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 1JD

Diary Dates. Networking Events Developing Futures: A West Norfolk Business Breakfast Where: Dukes Head Hotel, King’s Lynn When: Friday 6th May, 08:00 – 10:00 What: You will have the opportunity to hear from two speakers on the Downham Market Centre for Advanced Knowledge Engineering. Join us for a morning full of cross-county networking and a delicious breakfast as you hear how the project will create a catalyst to change the aspirations, skills and employment landscape in the region and the UK. Norfolk and Cambridgeshire Chamber Members only.

After Hours: The Networking Games & BBQ

Where: Oaklands Hotel, Norwich When: Thursday 23rd June, 18:00 – 20:00 What: To celebrate the upcoming Olympic Games, Norfolk Chamber will be hosting a competitive evening of what we do best: networking. Enjoy a summer BBQ out on the terrace of Oaklands Hotel whilst indulging in a range of networking games designed to get you making those allimportant connections. Book as an individual, or bring your staff along to build your teams and contacts. Members only.

Attract, Engage & Inspire: A Norwich Business Breakfast Where: Norwich When: Wednesday 6th July, 07:30 – 09:30

What: As the summer holidays draw nearer, another set of school, college and university graduates are preparing to become the future business leaders of Norfolk, but are businesses doing enough to attract them to our region? Join us for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast as we discuss how we can attract high calibre graduates to Norfolk and keep them here! Members only event.

Special Events Doing Business in Dubai - Raise your Profile and Maximize your profits Where: Holiday Inn, Ipswich Road, Norwich When: Tuesday 10th May, 15:00 – 17:00 What: Dubai is the international hub of the Middle East and one of the world’s major travel centres. Norfolk Chamber is holding a special event with Dubai Airport Freezone to help businesses like yours learn more about the opportunities in this exciting marketplace. Free of charge and open to all. Read more on page 44.

120th Anniversary Celebration Where: Norwich Castle Museum When: Thursday 19th May, 18.00 – 20.00 What: To thank our members for their continued support, we would like to invite you to join us as we celebrate 120 years committed to business. This exclusive event

will take place at the historical Norwich Castle Museum where guests will be greeted with drinks and canapes upon arrival and treated to an evening full of entertainment. Spaces are limited and tickets will be randomly allocated though ballot entries. Registration now closed. - see page 44 to sponsor the event.

Europe: The Business Debate Where: Norwich City Football Club, Norwich When: Friday 10th June, 14:30 – 17:00 What: In the lead up to the EU Referendum vote, Norfolk Chamber will be holding an event to give businesses information on the viewpoint from both the Remain and Leave campaigns of the debate. With round table discussions highlighting key business issues and Q&A opportunities, find out what is the right decision for your business. Open to all.

Talking Technology 2016 – Unlocking Digital Growth Where: The Space, Norwich When: Wednesday 21st September, 08:30 – 14:00 What: Talking Technology is an interactive half day event, exploring how businesses can be transformed by developing digital skills and taking advantage of innovative technologies. The event will act as host to both local and national big name brand speakers including AirBnB and will include thought provoking seminars and practical workshops, as well as a networking lunch and exhibition. Early Bird Tickets are available now! Open to all businesses to attend..

For more information, to see a full list of events, or book now visit: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/events

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

B2B Exhibition 2016 Where: Norwich City Football Club, Norwich When: Thursday 13th October, 10:00 – 17:00 What: The region’s premier business to business exhibition is the place to exhibit your business in 2016. Our stands are bookable now with Early Bird Rates available. The exhibition is free for visitors to attend, including entrance into free workshops running on the day. Open to all businesses.

HR Forums HR Forum: Can you keep a secret? Where: Holiday Inn Norwich, Ipswich Road When: Wednesday 22nd June, 14:00 – 17:00 What: As employees become more mobile, stay with businesses for shorter periods of time, and utilise the benefits of social media to raise their profiles, these are increasingly important issues for employers to be aware of. This comprehensive and practical HR Forum, sponsored and delivered by Ashton Legal, will explore various issues involving confidentiality, secrecy and privacy. The speakers will look at the importance of confidentiality with prospective employees, during the employment relationship and following termination. They will also look at data protection and the new rules regulating employees’ information during their employment. Open to all businesses.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

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ChamberEvents

The B2B Exhibition is BACK.

When: Thursday 13 October, 10am – 5pm. Where: Norwich City Football Club. Last year saw over 90 exhibitors and over 650 visitors. Visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/b2b @norfolkb2b Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

For more information please refer to the brochure included in this edition.

This is the big one.

2016 is the 18th year of B2B, and the 120th anniversary of Norfolk Chamber. With two reasons to celebrate we’re determined to make this the biggest and best B2B Exhibition ever. Dedicated to supporting and helping businesses grow since it was launched, B2B has itself grown into one of the key events in the business calendar. NEW THIS YEAR; exhibitors are free to select the location of their stand across either of our two floors at Norwich City Football Club: Business

Boulevard or Anniversary Avenue. Based on feedback from previous years, our exhibitors can now place their businesses where they feel best, opening B2B to even more businesses in even more sectors. Be part of it in 2016. Join us and celebrate everything B2B.

Talking Technology 2016 - Unlocking Digital Growth. Talking Technology is an interactive half day event aimed at developing and supporting the use of digital skills and innovative technologies in business, to improve productivity, increase revenue and unlock digital growth. The UK’s digital economy is accelerating rapidly, having grown at an impressive 32% faster than the rest of the economy. ‘Traditional’ (non-digital), industries have been transformed by utilising the innovative technologies and products available, but more needs to be done to take advantage of the benefits that digital transformation can offer the economy. As part of our continued commitment to business, Norfolk Chamber are delivering a programme of interactive seminars and practical workshops, exploring how businesses can

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We have already confirmed 11 expert speakers including Venetia Scott-Dalgleish, Regional Market Manager for AirBnB, Steffan Aquarone, TEDX speaker and founder of payment app Droplet and Jacyn Heavens, founder of the fast growing software company Epos Now. Early Bird Tickets are available now! Hear from the industry leaders making waves in the tech world and gain the insight and practical advice you need to take your business forward today!

implement the use of digital skills and technology to reap the rewards. Talking Technology will host national and local key note speakers and will provide valuable networking opportunities with an exhibition and networking lunch by invitation.

When: Wednesday 21 September 08:30-14:00 Where: The Space, Norwich Book your place: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/TalkingTech16 #TalkingTech

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Doing Business in Dubai. Raise your profile and maximize your profits. Dubai is the international hub of the Middle East and one of the world’s major travel centres. With easy geographical access to the key markets in the East and situated conveniently with links to the gulf and the West Dubai it makes the perfect place to do business. In Norwich on Tuesday 10th May Norfolk Chamber will be hosting a special event with Dubai Airport Freezone to help businesses like yours learn more about the opportunities in this exciting marketplace. The Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZA) is an organisation that deals with import and export trades and services.

Learn about: n How to expand your business in to the Dubai market n How DAFZA can help your business benefit from 100% corporate tax exemption, 100% personal income tax exemption, 100% foreign company ownership and more n How other businesses have succeeded and their advice

When: Tuesday 10 May 15:00-17:00

Where: Holiday Inn, Ipswich Road, Norwich To book your place visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

Celebrate 120 years with Norfolk Chamber. It’s not too late to get involved in Norfolk Chamber’s 120th anniversary celebration event, which takes place in May. You can show your support by donating a raffle prize, with all proceeds going to the Norwich Community Fund or donate directly, with Norfolk Chamber match funding donations up to £5,000.

There are also sponsorship opportunities available, which includes tickets to the event, special mention, promotion in the next edition of Norfolk Voice and much more.

Norfolk Chamber are also proud to sponsor this year’s City of Ale festival. Celebration glasses will be available at our event in May, and the festival from the 26 May to 5 June. Visit www.cityofale.org for more details.

For more information about this event please contact Philippa Bindley, Events Manager on 01603 729703 or email philippa.bindley@norfolkchamber.co.uk

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

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ChamberEvents

Free Business Training.

Covering a wide range of topics, our expert members are here to help your business and your professional development through their top tips: all free to members! Learn direct from those who live and breathe their topics daily from their work. Available at both breakfast and lunch to suit your diary, held in Norfolk Chamber, Norwich office, don’t miss out on these free opportunities to better your business.

Be Better at Business Blogging Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Tuesday 10th May 2016, 08:30 – 10:00

What: In this interactive session, Huw Sayer, Business Writers Limited will discuss ways to improve your business blogging. He will look at why you should blog, what you might blog about and how it can help you build your brand. He’ll will also discuss how blogging should fit with your sales, marketing and social media strategy. This session will include practical tips on content and style for aspiring bloggers and those responsible in managing external writers.

Be Better at Public Relations Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Thursday 12th May 2016, 12:30 – 14:00 What: This workshop will explain why it is vital in today’s highly competitive and increasingly media savvy world for every organisation to have a proactively managed public relations strategy in place. John Haschak, Partnership Plus will focus on media relations giving delegates an insight into how it operates and the confidence and

For more information and to see a full list of events visit: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/events

MAY/JUNE 2016

ability to engage with journalists for the benefit of their own organisations.

Be Better at Creative Leadership Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Tuesday 17th May 2016, 08:30 – 10:00 What: In this experiential session, participants will review what creative leadership means to them and practically what they need to do to be even more creative in the future. Rachel Paul, ConsultEast has a proven track record in coaching leaders and senior managers to grow their organisations successfully.

Be Better at Content Marketing Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Thursday 26th May 2016, 12:30 – 14:00 What: Host Derin Clark, from Affinity, will provide a brief overview of what content marketing

is and how it has evolved. She will look at different forms of content marketing and how these can be used by businesses to reach out and engage potential customers. Delegates will gain a basic understanding of a content strategy, as well as how to measure success of content marketing.

Be Better at LinkedIn Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Thursday 9th June 2016, 12:30 – 14:00 What: Marketing strategies for your business are wide and varied. Every year something new comes along for you to get your head around and fit in with your current marketing effort. Nobody is great at everything. Social media is expanding all the time and getting the message through the noise can be hard. That’s where LinkedIn can cut through and offer some real gains, learn how in this session with John Davy, Dojo Media Consulting.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Give your new business a boost Norfolk Chamber membership can help you in the early stages and beyond

Join the Norfolk Chamber today from £8.25/month We can help you:

Meet new customers

Tap into training

Find free legal advice

Make countywide connections. We host over 70 networking events each year from business breakfasts to after-hours gettogethers for our 900+ business members.

Our members share knowledge and expertise with each other through regular free Chamber sessions. Topics cover: social media, marketing, sales, management, and much more.

Our unlimited 24/7 legal & tax advice lines are an invaluable service to help save you money in the long run. Plus, get free legal expenses insurance worth £670,000.

Raise your proﬁle with ours

Receive helpful HR Resources

Develop International Trade

Our website attracts over 8,000 visitors each month. Find an immediate audience and promote your business for free on our website, social media channels and magazine.

No dedicated HR department? ChamberHR includes a 24/7 advice line and a comprehensive database of documents, policies, and letter templates – free for members. Or attend our expert HR Forums.

Our dedicated international team offers advice on trade, logistics, and country documentation requirements. And members enjoy 50% off export services.

To ﬁnd out more and join online visit:

www.norfolkchamber.co.uk Or contact us on 01603 729704 or membership@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Inﬂuence key policy makers As a member you have the opportunity to join with other like-minded businesses to influence policy makers and ensure that the business voice is heard loud and clear at a local, regional and national level.

View from the Board

Lots on the agenda for James. Strengthening the links between young people and the world of work is a significant part of our vision, and essential for all our futures. This was an opportunity to inspire 14 - 24 year olds about their career options.

This time round we talk with James Mason, Board Member, and Commercial Director of Norfolk Training Services Ltd., about what’s been on his agenda recently. It’s been busy! ‘First off I have to mention my being at the British Chambers of Commerce Annual Conference. Yes, I know it made some headlines and led to a resignation, but nothing can detract from the fact that this was a great opportunity to hear a wide range of topics discussed, and to engage in very healthy and robust debate. For me, the two things I brought away came from two of the keynote speakers. Sir Martin Sorrell, Chief Executive Officer, WPP demonstrated real positivity in his thinking on how most things

are possible when you’ve identified problems and obstacles, and then found a way to resolve them. And Margaret Heffernan, CEO, Author and on the Board of Directors for RADA in Business made the very good point that sometimes being a real leader means that you have to step back and trust the management team you’ve hired to actually get on with the job of managing. Both of those speakers have successful careers, but they had to start somewhere. As do we all. That’s why events like the Norfolk Skills and Careers Festival, which took place at The Norfolk Showground in February, are vital. The Chamber were instrumental in putting the Festival together.

In terms of helping people already in work, and in business, we’ve been actively involved in discussions with Norfolk County Council over the works in the centre of Norwich and the programme to pedestrianise Westlegate. Our aim has been to ensure that all the possible impacts of the scheme have been explored, and that all those affected have a voice. We’ve ensured that key questions have been raised. Questions like ‘Will reduced traffic flow make people less keen to come into Norwich centre? If it does, what impact will that have on businesses?’ These have been good discussions, enabled by our strong links with the Council. I know other Chamber Board Members have touched on this, but I do feel strongly that my ‘day job’ means that I can can contribute more, and more valid, thinking to my role within The Chamber. Wearing my hat of Commercial

Director of a work based learning organisation I can, for example, see the issue of the Apprenticeship Levy from all sides. It will be a levy of 0.5% on companies with a paybill of over £3m. There are probably more of those than we realise. I’ve no doubt that it will give businesses more control over their apprenticeship programmes, and create opportunities. The fact is though that at this stage we don’t know what the full impact will be on companies and their supply chains. I’ll be using my experience and knowledge of that to inform and update Chamber members as things progress. Ironically, whilst I am on the subject of my day job, my biggest challenge at the moment is probably that of finding enough suitable apprentices to fill all of the possible roles out there. That’s arguably a good problem to have, but it’s nothing to be complacent about. It’s another example though of how education, government and businesses must all work together, with young people, to overcome obstacles. It’s all about being positive. Good job I listened to Sir Martin Sorrell!

“I’ll be using my experience and knowledge of the apprenticeship levy to inform and update Chamber members as things progress.”

KLM UK Engineering Supports UTCN Students with Business Project. MembersNews KLM UK Engineering have been supporting UTCN students with a core project as part of their year 12 studies. The project is designed to introduce students to industry and solving problems in a business environment. The winning team visited KLMUKE and presented its findings to the senior management team & had a tour of the facilities. The winning team ‘Crash Bang Wallop’ - Will Porter, Willow Woodmin, Brandon Jeakings and Ben Allen, are pictured below with Arjan Meijer, Luke Frost and their tutor Max Molenaar.

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NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Acorn HR Consulting 01502 731707 www.acornhrconsulting. vpweb.co.uk Human Resources Consultants

Blooming Artificial 08009 777589 www.bloomingartificial.co.uk Retail (Other)

Brewin Dolphin 01473 267200 www.brewin.co.uk/east_ anglia Investment

Catton Park Trust Ltd 01603 423880 www.cattonpark.com Charities

Alison Wheeler 01953 601724 Health Services (inc Private)

BNI Norfolk Ltd 01603 432431 www.bninorfolk.co.uk Business Support

Business Growth Club 01603 443355 www.businessgrowthclub.net Coaching & Mentoring

CITYPAC Ltd 0845 862 3055 www.citypac.co.uk Courier Services

Belem-B Consultancy Ltd 07401 979297 www.belembconsultancy.co.uk Consultants (Business/ Management)

Board Warehouse 0800 0722800 www.boardwarehouse.co.uk Advertising

C&K Meats Ltd 01379 872900 www.ckmeats.co.uk Food Processing

Contemporary Taste ta Knights Court Hotel 01493 843089 www.knights-court.co.uk Hotels

48 Ensure you access all the benefits available to you as a Norfolk Chamber member, these include: Business Support

Find New Customers

Influence Change

Access Advice

Free HR Online Document Library Over 500 HR documents available to view and download whenever you need them.

Networking Events Access our 70+ events a year to network with other Norfolk businesses.

Representation Ensure your voice is heard at a local, regional and national level.

HR Advice Line Free 24/7 HR advice line, whenever your business needs it.

Raise Your Profile Promote yourself through our website and social media. Upload your news/blogs/events/ offers to our website and we will share them over social media.

Chamber Campaigns Join our campaigns for better broadband, mobile, infrastructure, and help us inspire Norfolk’s young people.

Legal Advice Line Free 24/7 Legal advice line.

Free Legal Expenses Insurance £1M worth of legal expenses insurance to cover the cost of representing your business should you become embroiled in certain legal disputes. AA Breakdown Cover Up to 64% discount available to our members. Primary Care Health Plan A very affordable absence and risk management tool, as well as an excellent employee benefit.

Norfolk Voice Free editorial in our bi-monthly magazine. Online Directory Improve your SEO through your company listing as well as being found through our directory search. Chamber Member Logo Use our logo on your website and literature.

For more information please visit: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk or contact us on 01603 729707 or email membership@norfolkchamber.co.uk

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Quarterly Economic Survey Take part in the QES which is used by the Bank of England and the Chancellor to plan the future of the UK economy

Tax Advice & Protection Free 24/7 Tax advice line and Tax investigation insurance. Chamber Sessions Free weekly training across a range of topics such as; Marketing, Social Media, Leadership etc. Export Training Whatever your exporting role, we have a course that will help you and your company succeed.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MAY/JUNE 2016

NewMembers Evander Direct 0345 145 0130 www.evander.com Building Contractors

LEX Recruitment Ltd 01953 681015 www.lexrecruitment.co.uk Recruitment

Chamber Membership give you access to a number of great benefits such as: n Free HR and Legal Advice n Networking events n Free Company promotion

Flight Simulator Sales & Servicing Limited 01603 397334 www.flight-simulators.co.uk Technology

Maple Cone Limited 07926 069196 www.maplecone.co.uk Consultancy/Interim Management

n Free training sessions n Free Legal Expenses Insurance n Free HR Templates and Documents To find out more or to join please visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/membership

FurtherMore Marketing 01692 535 432 www.furthermoremarketing. co.uk Marketing Services

Premier Travel Agency 01842 754771 http://www.premier-travel. co.uk/ Leisure & Tourism

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

49 Genix Ltd 0800 096 3013 www.genix.org.uk Training Providers/Services

Prior Diesel Ltd 01493 441383 www.priordiesel.com Energy

Stucco Pompeji UK Ltd 01603 714125 www.stuccopompeji.co.uk Manufacturing (General)

Trust Norfolk SEN 01263 820520 www.trustnorfolk-sen.co.uk Charities

Hunted Recruitment Limited 01603 858024 www.huntedrecruitment. co.uk Recruitment

Proeon Systems Limited 01953 859 110 www.proeon.co.uk Engineering

The Engineers Store 01493 446569 www.the-engineers-store. co.uk Manufacturing (General)

Zoological Society of East Anglia 01953 887771 www.banhamzoo.co.uk Animal/Pet Services

Kiyan Logistics Limited 01493300746 www.kiyanlogistics.com Logistics (Distribution/ Warehouse Services)

Safer Environmental Services Company (UK) Ltd 07783 124383 Shipping

The Smile Organisation 07873 953926 www.smileorganisation.co.uk Social Enterprise

Turn over to page 50 to read our interview with Martin Goymour, CEO of the Zoological Society of East Anglia. Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

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NORFOLK VOICE â&#x20AC;˘ THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

LastWord Name: Martin Goymour Position: Chief Executive Company: Zoological Society of East Anglia Martin Goymour is the Chief Executive of the Zoological Society of East Anglia, a charity formed in 2013, which is home to Banham Zoo and Africa Alive! wildlife parks. Martin is also among the third generation of a well-respected, Norfolk family business, Goymour Properties. He began working for them in 1980 as an assistant to the MD before being appointed managing director in his own right, just five years later at the age of 35. Martin became the MD and chairman of the Goymour Group in 1987 and has retained the role for the past 20 years, during which the company has seen vast expansion through a series of valuable acquisitions.

Africa Alive! (formerly Suffolk Wildlife Park) near Lowestoft was acquired by the Goymour Group in 1991. Since then the park has undergone a dramatic re-branding and it now specialises in housing and protecting an array of African species. Dinosaur Adventure (formerly the Dinosaur Park) was acquired in October 2006 along with the Weston Park Golf Club and both have become thriving attractions for Norfolk residents, holidaymakers and families alike. Martin is additionally zoo director of Banham Zoo where he has worked for 39 years and remained devoted to its development. The zoo has been rated among the UK’s top 3 zoos by Which and is notorious for its efforts to protect rare and endangered species.

What is the biggest challenge facing my business? Since the creation of The Zoological Society of East Anglia, (ZSEA) a registered charity in 2013, into which I gave both of my cherished parks, Banham Zoo and Africa Alive! the independent trustees have retained me as the CEO to forge ahead with ZSEA’s aspirations to promote and undertake work in the conservation of wildlife and promote education about it. As a relatively new charity ZSEA needs to gain recognition for the work that it does and establish itself within its East Anglian base; it is far more than the sum of these two most popular wildlife conservation parks. I remain also as the Managing Director of the family business; mainly comprising of Goymour Properties Ltd., the parent company whose offspring includes Dinosaur Adventure. My biggest challenge there is to ensure the total

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separation of the ZSEA from the family businesses and to nurture the 4th generation of the family in their role. Challenges come in many guises not only from within a business but externally too. Those that we all face currently include the knock on effects of the living wage and the rising wages levels determined by the Government over the coming years. The second biggest external challenge will come from a potential exit from the EU. What can you see from your office window? Walking to work the halfmile or so takes me past my 11 Suffolk horses grazing in the home paddocks, across the main Banham Zoo car Park to the main offices at The Grove. Together with my wife Caroline, she and I part company as she heads to the zoo offices, where she manages the administration and care of ZSEA season ticket holders and more, as I head on to The Grove, the Edwardian house,

Not only has Martin lived in Banham for 55 years, but his businesses are key to the tourism, leisure and residential economy of Norfolk. In the years he has been involved with the management of the business, the Goymour Group has expanded its impressive portfolio of regional businesses and now owns some of the most cherished and successful companies in East Anglia.

formerly my parents home, which is now the main offices for all our various enterprises, and where some 15 senior staff are located. What do you always take to work? Enthusiasm and my latest companion an eleven-monthold black Cocker Spaniel named ‘Poppy’. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs? ‘Build it and they will come’ – but as recently reminded people still need to know what it is that you have built! Know your market. Passion is good, but you still have to direct your energies! The human species is gregarious; to work with people you need to understand them. See yourself as others see you, not always how you see yourself. Be realistic. Who do you admire most in business?

scratch, most if not all and anyone involved in the tourist industry in the UK. All of these are either extremely stubborn, single minded, focused, dedicated people. The UK climate is a constant challenge and yet we persist! Whilst big industry hits the headlines, it is still the entrepreneurs and the family businesses that form the backbone of the country. What are your three main qualities? Perhaps not for me to say – ask the senior managers with whom I work – they would probably give wincingly different answers – some of them acceptable! Honesty, consistency, inclusiveness, definitely stubbornness, patience – often over valued as that means something I want done now cannot be for various reasons, Vision – probably the most important and sustaining.

Most farmers, most individuals who have created a business from NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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