Norfolk Voice 39

voice

norfolk

David McQuade, Flagship Group has the Last Word

Why Norfolk’s infrastructure needs improving

Our Big Interview with Andrew Paine, Head of Offshore Wind Development UK, Vattenfall Plus... Member News / International / Policy / Events THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MARCHAPRIL 2017

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Contents 03

04/05

06/07

08/09

12/13

16/17

18/21

22/23

24/25

26/27

28/29

32/35

36

37

39

40-41

42

CONTENTS

Welcome!

We have a bumper Norfolk Voice for you this issue. As we venture into 2017 key areas for the Chamber to concentrate on are becoming clearer. At our recent MPs event we talked about four key areas.

1. Revolution in Technology: the need to both protect our businesses from cybercrime (see our event page 33) and to search for technological solutions via fast internet and improved mobile connections.

2. Bridging the skills gap: as we grow our businesses we need to retain and recruit the best people with the right attitude and skills.

Apprenticeships have been a great way to grow our own.. the Chamber has employed three of their apprentices full time, but what are the changes businesses need to be aware of, page 24.

3. Improved Infrastructure: air, road, and rail. Hear from our members on what improvements they want to see happen and why, page 6.

4. Economic Trends: what is going on locally, regionally, nationally and globally?

Actually that is a very good question – answers on a postcard! Seriously, as part of the British Chambers of Commerce Global network we have access to a wide source of data to support our members.

MEMBER NEWS

2017 will continue to be surprising and challenging especially with Brexit unfolding but you can be assured that the Chamber will be here to inform, innovate and support all areas of your business.

CHAMBER POLICY

BUSINESS SUPPORT

THE BIG INTERVIEW

MEMBERSHIP

MEMBER NEWS

MEMBER NEWS

NEW MEMBERS

MEMBER NEWS

Alternative energy is vital to the UK’s economy, whilst we are waiting patiently for Sizewell C, we do not have to wait long for activity in Offshore Wind. Read the Big Interview from Andrew Paine, Head of Offshore Wind Development UK, Vattenfall, on page 22.

You may have noticed our shiny new website. If not I suggest you do take a look norfolkchamber.co.uk. We have plans to add new additional features over the next few months so do keep an eye on what we are doing. You will find all our services on the website, our events and our expanding training offering throughout this magazine so do take time to check that you are aware of how we can help you be even more successful.

CHAMBER NEWS

COVER FEATURE

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

CHAMBER FEATURE

CHAMBER EVENTS

VIEW FROM THE BOARD

THE LAST WORD CHAMBER’S GOLD PATRONS

Norfolk Voice is a Norfolk Chamber of Commerce publication.

PRODUCTION & DESIGN

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FEATURE EDITORS

Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

MARCH/APRIL 2017

John Dean & Francis Griss email:deangriss@btinternet.com DISCLAIMER: Distinctive Publishing or Norfolk Chamber cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and Norfolk Chamber.

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

3

A challenge and opportunity for Norfolk.

This edition of Norfolk Voices theme is Infrastructure and Skills, both subjects are intricately linked and are both a challenge and an opportunity for Norfolk. Often we hear talk about an infrastructure deficit within the region and when you look at other areas of the UK, and compare them to Norfolk this could be considered as true. As we don’t have any Motorways within the County and the rail network is fairly limited especially the east/west link.

In some respects the absence of Motorways within the County make it the place that we all enjoy and want to live within. We do however need to strike a balance between protecting the unspoilt countryside within the County and the need to be able to efficiently move people and goods between our main towns and the City. With this in mind it has been recognised by central government that we need to catchup with our infrastructure which has resulted in funds being made available for not only the A11, the NDR but also future improvements to the A47. The dualling of this last road would be a significant part in the overall infrastructure jigsaw, which we still need to complete.

We do however need to make the most though, of what the County has already got. The dualling of the A11 has significantly opened up opportunities along this corridor for new development both residential and commercial. The NDR when it is opened later this

year/early 2018 will open up opportunities to the north and east of Norwich. The new rail franchise should also give a boost to the County with all new rolling stock being secured and improved journey times and frequencies to both London and Cambridge.

Digital infrastructure is clearly one aspect which we could do with a step change in. A predominantly rural County with many excellent businesses, needs a fast and efficient digital network whether this be superfast broadband or mobile phone coverage. Norfolk needs to have a network which is faster and better than its neighbours to ensure that our businesses get the best opportunity in the increasingly growing digital marketplace.

The link to Skills however is, that if we are going to deliver on some of these infrastructure projects and opportunities that will follow, we need to ensure that we have an appropriately qualified and skilled workforce. Whether this be as a trade, or a professional, or somebody who is just starting out in business. Norfolk Chamber of Commerce is just launching its new series of Training courses being run by the Chamber by its members for its members in a wide range of specialist areas. Details of the courses should be within this copy of your Norfolk Voice, if not please do not hesitate to contact the Chamber for further details.

Infrastructure updates and ample networking.

Jonathan Cage

President, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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On Thursday 19th January, over 70 members joined us for a Business Breakfast at the Great Yarmouth Town Hall.

When guests wrapped up their networking sessions, they were treated to a full English breakfast courtesy of T&K Banqueting Ltd. Presentations then came from our event Sponsors, Norfolk County Council, supported by Great Yarmouth Borough Council. Tig Armstrong, Infrastructure and

Economic Growth Manager, David Allfrey, Major Projects Manager, both from Norfolk County Council gave updates on infrastructure across Norfolk, looking at both the dualling of the A47 and the Third River Crossing project. Both government spending and timelines were discussed, Norfolk County Council advised that building work could begin on bridge as early as 2020.

David Glason, Group Manager for Growth, Great Yarmouth Borough Council then updated guests on investment within the Town Centre explaining that £2m is being put into regenerating Great Yarmouth.

To learn about any upcoming events, please visit: norfolkchamber.co.uk/events

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

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

How would your business cope in a power cut?

In January, Norfolk Chamber held a focus group for microsmall rural based businesses (with under 50 employees) to discuss implications of power cuts or failures on their business, in partnership with UK Power Networks.

The focus group explored small businesses reliance on electricity, resilience to power cuts, their concerns, the potential impact of power cuts and how business could be supported.

MARCH/APRIL 2017

ChamberNews

Chamber Members Question the MPs.

On Friday 3 February over 150 Norfolk businesses arrived at Holiday Inn Norwich North for an afternoon of debate and discussion with five of Norfolk’s MPs. Sponsored by Norse, Greater Anglia and Holiday Inn, the event returned for its seventh year with MPs Sir Henry Bellingham – MP for South West Norfolk, Richard Bacon – MP for South Norfolk, George Freeman – MP for Mid Norfolk, Keith Simpson – MP for Broadland and Norman Lamb – MP for North Norfolk. This year’s event host was Carole Walker, BBC Political Correspondent and ‘Norfolk gal’.

The afternoon was split into two sections, covering a range of key

topics affecting Norfolk’s business community. The first section saw Norman Lamb, Richard Bacon, George Freeman and Keith Simpson covering revolution in technology.

The discussion saw cyber-crime, broadband, mobile and of course Brexit covered by a mixture of interview style with audience questions.

pre-recorded video message. Both Richard Bacon and George Freeman then returned to the stage along with Sir Henry Bellingham and Jamie Burles, Managing Director of Greater Anglia. Infrastructure was the main topic of questions as we heard about the A47, rail, air travel and once again the implications of Brexit.

After a break, members had the chance to hear from Brandon Lewis – MP for Great Yarmouth, in a

The afternoon provided both members and MPs with plenty of thought.

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Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

For the full event write up, visit the Policy News section on our website at norfolkchamber.co.uk.

Business Rates debated.

West Norfolk Networking.

On Friday 10 February Norfolk Chamber Members from across the region joined us at Dukes Head Hotel in King’s Lynn for an informative morning with The College of West Anglia.

Business leaders from across the County joined together to attend the annual Business Ratepayers Consultation event run in partnership with Norfolk County Council in January at Norwich City Football Club.

MARCH/APRIL 2017

The event provides local business ratepayers with the opportunity to learn more about the County Council’s budget planning and prospects for 2017/18 - and to discuss the impact of this on the County’s delivery of key services as well as the impact on the economy.

Mark Reavell, Executive Director for Partnerships at the College of West Anglia took the stage after breakfast and our safari move, speaking to delegates on the challenges facing employers and apprenticeship providers to hit targets set by the government for 2020. Mark also covered the upcoming Apprenticeship Levy,

which is set to affect businesses from April 2017.

The next West Norfolk Breakfast takes place on Tuesday 25 April 2017, visit norfolkchamber.co.uk/ events

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

Why Norfolk’s Infrastructu All businesses rely on transport infrastructure. It allows them to bring in raw materials and move their goods out to markets.

Such moves are vital to support local businesses.

The area, for example, has Norwich International Airport and seaports at Great Yarmouth and King’s Lynn – both towns have an Enterprise Zone and all would benefit from better road and rail connections.

However, in Norfolk, we are challenged with a largely rural community with no motorways and minimal dual carriageways. Talk to any business person and they will highlight frustrations of one type or another, be it road or rail.

Norfolk Chamber is playing its part to help bring about the improvements we need. We will work with our partners to achieve:

There are glimmers of hope but much more needs to be done to achieve the infrastructure that the county needs and deserves.

n Delivery of Phase 1 A47 Improvements by

2023

n Approval and funding for the Great Yarmouth

Third River Crossing to relieve congestion and support access to the port and Enterprise Zones

n Commitment from Network Rail for

infrastructure improvements along the Great Eastern Mainline to improve journey times, frequency and reliability

Here, we look at the reasons behind the campaign.

n Further funding to dual more sections of the

A47 (Phase 2), which will support the delivery of economic growth and jobs

A47 improvements update

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Dualling the full A47 would cut 55 minutes off journey times but selected improvements on the A47 and A12 between Peterborough and Lowestoft, would, within 20 years, lead to: n 16,890 more jobs in the area n 10,585 new homes n An annual £706m boost in economic

output (GVA)

The Phase 1 improvements along the A47 in Norfolk were announced in the 2014 Autumn Statement and are expected to be in place by 2023. The improved sections are: North Tuddenham to Easton; Blofield to North Burlingham; A47/A12 Great Yarmouth junction improvements, including reconstruction of the Vauxhall roundabout; and the A47/A11 Thickthorn junction. The public consultation on these improvements will start in Spring 2017.

The proposed A47 Phase 2 improvements are the dualling of the Acle Straight, at a cost of £120m; and the dualling of Tilney to East Winch (£140m) plus the cost of the Hardwick Flyover. The next step is for the A47 Alliance, which includes Norfolk Chamber, New Anglia LEP and the local authorities, is to create the business case with which to lobby Westminster and the Department of Transport for funding for these improvements.

“We look forward to the public consultation this spring on phase 1 of the A47 implementation.

We are in the process of preparing funding submission for phase 2 and we hope that central government will acknowledge the need for the dualling of the Acle straight and improvements between Tilney and King’s Lynn.

We don’t see this as the end of the story. The County Council as well as the Chamber and other partners look forward to the full dualling of the A47 between Peterborough and Lowestoft including the grade separation of the key junctions.”

“The phase 2 improvements to the A47 should mean there is significant benefit to business by improving traffic links, which, in turn, would assist those looking to recruit staff from other areas as daily congestion and travelling times would be reduced. It would also assist businesses that rely on the A47 to bring products and materials into Town’s like Great Yarmouth.”

Neil Orford

Partner for Lovewell Blake LLP and President of the Great Yarmouth Chamber Council

Tom McCabe

Executive Director of Community and Environmental Services, Norfolk County Council

“Investment in improved transport infrastructure is an essential step to unlocking Great Yarmouth’s true potential.

The ability to attract opportunities will not only benefit existing businesses but also the communities we serve today and the future prosperity we can deliver tomorrow.”

Richard Goffin, Port Director, Peel Ports Great Yarmouth

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

MARCH/APRIL 2017

CoverFeature

ure needs improving.

Norwich Northern Distributor Road update

Why we need the Great Yarmouth Third River Crossing

Great Eastern Mainline – what needs to happen now

The £178.5 million Norwich Northern Distributor Road (NDR) runs for 12.5 miles from the A1067 Fakenham Road at Attlebridge to Postwick on the A47 and is due to be finished by December.

Lack of connectivity severely inhibits movement in Great Yarmouth, resulting in congestion that limits the economic potential of the area’s Enterprise Zone, The Great Yarmouth Energy Park, the South Denes Business Park and the deep water outer harbour owned by Peel Ports.

Greater Anglia was awarded the East Anglia Rail Franchise, which commenced in October 2016. The new franchise has committed to deliver new rolling stock, wifi in all carriages and will achieve London to Chelmsford in 25 minutes, Colchester in 40 minutes, Ipswich in 60 minutes and Norwich in 90 minutes at least twice per day.

However, the NDR does not complete the ‘full circle’ by joining the A47 in the west, as it would need to cross the environmentally sensitive Wensum Valley.

The lack of a link has been a criticism of the 12.5 mile road. People in places such as Costessey, Weston Longville and Ringland fear the road currently being built will lead to rat-running where they live in the absence of a proper connection from the A1067 to the A47.

Norfolk County Councillors are looking to spend an additional £425,000 for further specialist work over the next 18 months to produce evidence. There is considerable opposition from the Wensum Valley Alliance, who oppose such a link.

The new crossing would provide much-needed connections between the strategic road network and the fast-growing energy related Enterprise Zone, providing links across the River Yare to the economic growth hub on the South Denes peninsula. The crossing would also support tourism, which is worth £577m per annum to Great Yarmouth.

It could: n Help deliver up to 5,000 jobs n Reduce congestion on Haven bridge by 1,000

vehicles during peak periods

Whilst businesses in our region welcome the commitments, we need to ensure that the service is consistent and reliable.

Much of that reliability depends on Network Rail and further significant infrastructure improvements are needed.

Norfolk Chamber will work in partnership with Greater Anglia to lobby and influence for Network Rail improvements.

n Reduce congestion on Breydon Bridge by 200

vehicles during peak periods

n Create shorter journey times n Improve quality of life for residents and

employees

n Reduce high season congestion n GVA uplift of £150m per annum

“Our business is all about connectivity so we’re delighted to see work progressing on the Northern Distributor Road because anything that makes it even easier for people to travel to their local airport has got to be welcomed.

We’ve just celebrated a 10% increase in passenger numbers having passed the half million mark for the first time since 2008, and we hope that the completion of the road in early 2018 will help support further growth next year.”

Richard Pace

Managing director of Norwich Airport

MARCH/APRIL 2017

“The Third River crossing will make a huge difference to the local economy, providing an infrastructure to support the growth of business in Great Yarmouth, and will be a significant boost to job creation, both now and for the future.”

Gordon Chetwood

“We have members of my Firm’s practice travelling to and from London on the Great Eastern mainline every day and we know all too well how vital a fast and reliable service to and from London is to our business and to the Region - and with the growth of our Cambridge Office we need the same high quality service also to and from Cambridge.”

Andrew Barnes

Senior Partner, Howes Percival LLP, Norwich

Managing Director, Pasta Foods Limited, Great Yarmouth NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

7

BBA Digital Media helps the Timber Project make a difference.

Break launches new business venture.

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Break has launched a new initiative, working with local business to invest in the future of our young people.

Five local businesses have already signed up to become Corporate Patrons for Break - they are Aspiration Europe, Kings & Barnham, Osiris Technologies, Print Box UK and Product Resolutions.

For as little as £50 a month, any organisation can join the Break Corporate Patron scheme to help change the lives of young people across East Anglia By becoming a Break Corporate Patron, companies can benefit from being part of an exclusive group of forward-thinking businesses, who can work with Break to achieve the aspirations of some of the most vulnerable young people in our community.

Chemical industry experts optimistic for future growth.

Briar Chemicals attended the Chemical Industries Association annual business conference, which this year was focused on “Brexit” and the UK Chemical Industry’s future strategy.

The event provided an excellent forum for senior management of UK chemical manufacturing companies, alongside UK Government Ministers and other stakeholders, to come together and define policy and opportunities.

She said they included: n Sterling devaluation makes our selling prices more

attractive

BBA Digital Media have supported The Timber Project for the past four months and the campaign went live on their digital screens.

Chris Moore, co-Founder of The Timber Project, said: “We have had a lot of donations on the back of this so we really appreciate the help.”

The team are out in Greece and along the Balkan route devoted to providing basic shelter and hygiene facilities for refugees stranded.

Chris said "The temperature is well below freezing and many people are still living in tents. The more we can do provide warm spaces for people really makes a difference.”

Discounted healthcare plans for your employees. Visit norfolkchamber.co.uk for details.

There is no question that following the “Brexit” vote on 23rd June 2016 there is uncertainty in the business environment and that this has resulted in a great deal of lively dialogue in our industry and in the media as a whole.

Susan Brench, Head of Commercial at Briar Chemicals, said: "Whilst we understand our stakeholders’ concerns, I would like to offer the following perspective; Briar Chemicals believes that the current economic and political climate has also resulted in several opportunities presenting themselves.”

It's always nice to get good feedback from any business you deal with but when it's a charity that feeling is even better.

Briar Chemicals attends Chemical Industries Association annual conference n There is the potential for reduced regulatory burden n Government action can make the UK an even more

attractive investment location

n From a recent survey, the UK chemical industry,

being a long-established, highly export-orientated manufacturing sector, maintains a positive outlook to business prospects

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

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

MARCH/APRIL 2017

MemberNews Customised supports CEDIA bid to open doors to veterans.

John Gostling, Managing Director

Breakwater starts the year with fresh leadership.

In 2017, technology looks set to continue being a very influential part of our lives, providing a multitude of challenges and growth opportunities for business.

Breakwater is lucky to work within a field that benefits from substantial investment and research, with IT regularly offering up new platforms to deliver the next level of innovation, and this year looks set to raise the technology bar even higher.

As an IT support and services provider, Breakwater works to ensure it is continually on the leading-edge, recommending new and efficient ways to meet the technology needs of clients.

John Gostling has been appointed Managing Director of Breakwater, having been part of the company for four years and Operations Director for the past two.

John said: “I am extremely excited to be meeting the year ahead in a position that enables me to actively guide the direction of Breakwater and the talented team we have here.”

Greater Anglia train fleets win awards for improved reliability.

Improvements to the reliability of Greater Anglia’s train fleet have been recognised at the rail industry’s coveted Golden Spanners Awards.

The region’s train operator received a ‘Golden Spanner’ award for its Intercity fleet, which operates on the Norwich – London mainline, with a 98.43% improvement in reliability based on the number of miles per technical incident (which is measured as a technical fault that causes a delay of three minutes or more), making them the most reliable and also the most improved train fleet in the country.

Last year miles per incident on the Norwich – London mainline were recorded at 24,251 miles and are now 48,122, representing an improvement of 98.43%.

Six further fleets operated by Greater Anglia also showed improvements in reliability compared to the previous year.

The Class 321 fleet, which serves commuter routes in Essex, saw an improvement of 54%, going from 17,553 miles per technical incident to 27,030.

On Greater Anglia’s regional routes in Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, the reliability of the Class 153 trains was up 20.5% and Class170 trains up 14.1%.

Great networking opportunities at our breakfasts, informal evening events and business exhibitions. Visit norfolkchamber.co.uk/events to book.

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Customised Limited were delighted to support CEDIA's Veteran Outreach programme.

The lack of experienced technicians is one of the biggest problems facing the Custom Install industry.

Kris Gamble, Managing Director at Customised Ltd, who was in the Royal Air Force for six years, said: “Ex-military men and woman should not be daunted by the hitech gadgets and the glamorous surroundings where home technology is commonly installed.

“They need to realise that the technology they used during their military service and the environments in which they carried out their duties far exceed what they'll encounter as a home technology professional.

“If they want to continue to work in an industry which is fast moving, cutting edge and highly professional, then the smart home industry is an opportunity worth exploring.”

Kris' comment on the Outreach Program were included in the recently published Winter 2017 edition of CEDIA Communicates.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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

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Three little words that speak volumes about us.

Great thinking Great relationships Great results

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Do Chinese companies deserve their reputation as the likeliest source of intellectual property theft? And how can this risk be mitigated?

Throughout history rising political powers have always sought to acquire and exploit technology to speed up economic and social development. According to intellectual property historian Doron Ben-Atar, throughout the 18th and 19th centuries both the US and almost every major European state engaged in technology piracy and industrial espionage to a lesser or greater degree. So perhaps it should come as no surprise that China as a fast-growing economic superpower could be the latest political player keen to meet and extend the forefront of modern technology to this end. the doors were in fact completely interchangeable.

The threat from online attack has also never been greater than in current times. A recent article published by the Guardian quotes the Director of the US National Security Agency Keith Alexander in 2012 describing commercial cyber-attacks as “the greatest transfer of wealth in history,” with a follow up report estimating such intrusions cost the US economy $300bn a year - with China responsible for up to 80%.

A key difference of course in modern times is the dawn of the internet and the technological advances which make it much easier for information to be obtained, and for reverse engineering to be completed in very short periods of time. These time-reducing factors often result in counterfeits being available immediately after product launches which can be incredibly damaging to the original owner.

It is also in part likely to be a cultural issue, with the concept of individual intellectual property ownership not as strongly recognised in Chinese cultures as it is in western cultures.

A number of writers on the subject have suggested that Chinese companies are more likely to illegally exploit the intellectual property assets of others than counterparts in other countries, and that the Chinese government does little to deter this attitude.

This is an opinion that is frequently and resoundingly refuted by the Chinese government but the volume of legal cases accusing Chinese companies of illegally acquiring or exploiting intellectual property rights suggests that the problem does exist.

Jaguar Land Rover, General Motors, Ineos and Avago Technologies are among some of the recent notable companies that claim to be victims of Chinese intellectual property theft. In the case of General Motors, Chinese company Chery were producing vehicles so similar that

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Other sources also report that over half of all Chinese counterfeiting is done simply by copying a design straight from a company’s website, raising the difficult topic of how companies can publish technical information to generate sales without overly-facilitating the counterfeiting of their products.

A combatting factor affecting intellectual property piracy in recent times is the establishment of international treaties which protect rights owners and offer a legal course of action to pursue retribution. But here again China can be problematic as it employs a first-to-file intellectual property system. This means, for example, that if a third party registers a preexisting international brand in China before the entity does so, it can be extremely difficult for the preexisting entity to regain ownership.

The Chinese intellectual property legal systems are improving constantly though in an attempt for China to be further accepted at the world political table. In situations where the Chinese legal systems have been appropriately embraced, disputes are increasingly being settled in favour of existing international rights holders.

There are several steps that can be taken for business owners to mitigate the risk of intellectual property theft from China. These include: n Registering brand names,

designs and other IP Rights in China – given the first to file system retrospectively claiming

In reality it is impossible to accurately judge how widespread intellectual property theft really is in China, but from the available statistics and individual cases that have come to light it is certainly prevalent enough to warrant a detailed risk mitigation review for any established business.

ownership can be very difficult, and expensive! n Only working with Chinese

companies under contractual agreements that explicitly address intellectual property concerns.

n Establishing an IT security

framework to securely store sensitive information and minimise the risk of cyber-attack.

n Travelling with ‘clean’ laptops

and only sharing need-to-know information.

n Reviewing all publicly available

technical information, including website and marketing material, and enforcing an appropriate level of privacy.

To discuss any of these issues and how to protect your business’s intellectual property assets internationally, please get in touch with the ip21 team.

Richard Jones MBA DipPC CMgr MCMI Business Relationship Manager for ip21 Ltd

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A specialist Intellectual Property company that moves with the times At ip21 we pride ourselves on offering a full range of IP services, as well as IP advice and support tailored to the commercial benefit of our clients.

• Patents • Trademarks • Licensing • Design Rights • Litigation • IP Strategy • IP Valuation • IP Budgeting

Intellectual Property Specialists Offices in Norwich, London, Chelmsford and Bury St Edmunds Tel: +44 (0) 1603 457008 Email: info@ip21.co.uk www.ip21.co.uk

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

Get involved with careers event.

Enterprise in Schools Training.

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Norfolk Chamber is supporting schools across Norfolk on delivering the following Your Future Career Events. We are looking for businesses to take a free stand at these events to inspire students on careers available.

To take a stand please contact Jenny Bond, Events Assistant on 01603 729702 or email Jennifer.bond@ norfolkchamber.co.uk STEM at Archbishop Sancroft High School (Harleston) Date: Monday 13 March 2017 Time: 8:30am - 5:30pm Attleborough Academy Careers Event Date: Tuesday 14 March 2017 Time: 8:30am - 1:30pm STEMM at Flegg High School Date: Wednesday 22 March 2017

A British Chambers of Commerce survey in 2016 showed that 67% education leaders recognise the need for better careers information. The survey also showed that 82% businesses believe secondary schools should offer work experience. 100% of the Norfolk education leaders surveyed also stated that employer engagement has a clear benefit for their pupils, including: greater awareness of the soft skills that businesses value.

n How to communicate effectively with young

Norfolk Chamber believes that it is important that business individuals working in schools are supported, so we have developed a short training course to help businesses to feel more confident working with young people in a school environment.

n Examples of activities to do in schools

Date: Thursday 03 July 2017

3 Free Training Workshops:

Time: 09:30am - 1:30pm

The training is fully funded and we are pleased to announce that we can offer these training workshops for free!

people

n Understanding perceptions of young people and

how they think

n How employers can successfully engage with

young people

n Listening skills and learning styles

Time: 8:00am - 1:00pm Thetford Academy Careers Event Date: Thursday 11 May 2017 Time: 12:45pm - 15:45pm Wymondham High Careers Event

Thursday 02 March 2017, 1:30pm - 3:00pm Tuesday 28 March 2017, 1:30pm - 3:00pm Thursday 20 April 2017, 1:30pm - 3:00pm

The sessions will be delivered at Norfolk Chamber’s office by the Skills Service UK. The informative interactive workshop will cover: n Information about schools, Key States,

qualifications and terminology

n Safeguarding introduction and do’s and don’ts

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

If your school would like our support to deliver a career event for FREE, please email events@ norfolkchamber.co.uk Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

MARCH/APRIL 2017

ChamberPolicy

Chamber group looks at roads and rail.

At a recent meeting of the Chamber’s Transport & Infrastructure Group, the members reviewed both road and rail transport.

Highway England’s research. The agricultural sector was not mentioned, yet Norfolk is one of the largest food producers in the UK. Additionally there wasn’t a map of showing regional GDP, which Chamber Group felt would be an essential perspective in assessing how the road network should support various regions.

Jonathan Denby, Greater Anglia’s Head of Corporate Affairs provided an update on the Greater Anglia Rail Franchise and what it planned to deliver over the duration of its 9 year franchise. He gave an overview of what the new transformational franchise aimed to achieve, including the replacement of the entire fleet with new rolling stock and an outline of the infrastructure needed to ensure the success of the Great Eastern Mainline.

Nova Fairbank, Public Affairs Manager for Norfolk Chamber said: “A formal submission was made via the Highways England online consultation, but I also had the opportunity to highlight our views at a subsequent meeting, in London together with the British Chambers, where I was able to directly feedback to Elise Lewis, the Divisional Director for Strategy & Planning at Highways England. Ms Lewis advised that the consultation document was a condensed version and the points we had made had already been taken into account. We await the final publication in Spring 2017.”

The group also reviewed Highway England’s discussion paper on their emerging strategic economic growth plan. The group were concerned that several key income generating sectors did not appear to have been taken into account when considering the areas of

The next meeting of the Transport & Infrastructure Group will be held on 10 April.

“I also had the opportunity to highlight our views at a subsequent meeting, in London together with the British Chambers, where I was able to directly feedback to Elise Lewis, the Divisional Director for Strategy & Planning at Highways England.”

Nova Fairbank, Public Affairs Manager for Norfolk Chamber

Norfolk Chamber strengthens its Board.

Norfolk Chamber has added another member to its Board of Directors.

Paul McCarthy, the General Manager of Intu Chapelfield has been appointed, which now takes the Board to a total of twelve members. The Norfolk Chamber Board is made up of Chamber members from across the County to ensure that members’ interests are represented at local, county and regional levels.

Mr McCarthy has been a member of the Norwich Chamber Council since June 2014 and is a strong supporter of the Chamber.

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Jonathan Cage, President of Norfolk Chamber said: “Paul brings a wealth experience and gives a retail perspective to the Norfolk Chamber Board. I am looking forward to working with him to support and promote issues affecting the business community in Norfolk.”

Commenting on his appointment, Paul McCarthy said: “It’s a real privilege to be joining the board of the Chamber of Commerce and I look forward to contributing to the governance of our Chamber and supporting the wider team in the work that they do in providing support, services and a voice for all of us.”

Paul McCarthy

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

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Advertising

The 2017 North Norfolk Tidal Surge: What happened and how to prepare for the future.

On January 13th 2017, residents of North Norfolk were advised to take drastic action. Reports of high tides set to push sea waters towards the east coast were forecast, potentially bringing waves crashing over coastal defences. Fears were that they might reach similar levels to 2013, when water levels exceeded those of the devastating floods of 1953. Areas of greatest concern included Salthouse, Cley-next-the-sea, Walcott, Yarmouth and Cromer. The Environment agency issued 42 flood alerts including 12 severe warnings across the county.

5000 homes were evacuated in Great Yarmouth alone. Tonnes of sand bags helped construct makeshift defences against sea waters and local businesses were recommended to protect their premises as best as possible.

We recommend businesses, especially those residing in areas prone to flooding, have a checklist of actions that prepares them for the worst. This includes: n Unplugging electrical items n Moving stock to higher levels n Make important documents watertight n Create a list of emergency contact numbers

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(including out of hours)

By being prepared and taking some simple steps you can dramatically reduce the impact a flood has on your business, reducing not only the disruption but also the financial loss.

The storm caused waves to breach Cromer’s sea wall and destroy a dozen beach huts, and rip up a section of Cromer’s promenade. The town’s award-winning 116 year-old pier took a battering

too. Despite the damage, it is unlikely repairs will reach the £3.1 million bill following the 2013 tidal surge.

If you are concerned about future threats caused by storm or flooding to your business, wish to discuss your insurance needs, or would like more information on anything raised in this article, please contact Hugh J Boswell on 01603 626155.

A chartered insurance broker with values

Independence • Trust • Customer Commitment Professionalism • Innovation

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08/12/2016 17:55 MARCH/APRIL 2017

We recover your debts while you run your business.

At JCRS Ltd we work as an extension to your own credit control department, to provide an effective and efficient debt recovery and credit management service.

Whether you have a one-off or if you have ongoing bad debtors, JCRS will work for you to take away the hassle of chasing and obtaining payments, resulting in improved cash flow and profit for your company.

We can work with any industry that offer credit terms.

At JCRS we pride ourselves on offering a bespoke service, meaning we take time to get to know you, your business and your customer base in order to maintain a professional approach. We believe in being articulate and persistent to ensure that we achieve the highest levels of return. We are able to flex and adapt to bring a bespoke service to each client.

Previous clients have appreciated being able to maintain ongoing, good relationships with their customers as a result of not being directly involved in chasing payments.

01603 319 034 info@jacksonscrs.co.uk www.jacksonscrs.co.uk

Commercial Debt Recovery Specialists

Tax Strategies Large businesses and their approach to tax compliance have been very much in the public and political spotlight in recent years and this has found its way into government policy announcements.

Arguably, last year’s Finance Act requirement that businesses publish their tax strategies was only asking them to make public something that should already exist. However, as HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) intensify their compliance activity in relation to small and medium enterprises, did their commentary on what they expect to see in a tax policy have relevance for businesses as a whole?

“At a time when HMRC strive to maximise tax revenues through compliance we encourage our clients to make consideration of ‘tax risk’ a core element of their corporate governance.”

I think the answer to that one is ‘yes’ and, whilst I’m not suggesting that HMRC are about to ask everyone to publish their tax strategy, I expect that we will see, within HMRC interventions, an increasing expectation that one exists.

John Weston, Employment Taxes Manager

As I reflect again on the content of HMRC’s guidance (available at www.gov.uk/guidance/large-businessespublish-your-tax-strategy), I think a supplementary question may be appropriate. If HMRC were to ask about your approach to tax risk, how comfortable would you be?

At a time when HMRC strive to maximise tax revenues through compliance we encourage our clients to make consideration of ‘tax risk’ a core element of their corporate governance and similarly, if you have any concerns in this regard, we recommend taking advice. www.larking-gowen.co.uk

If you have any queries with regards to this, please contact me at john.weston@larking-gowen.co.uk or call 01603 624181.

This article is designed for the information of readers. Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, information contained in this article may not be comprehensive and recipients should not act upon it without seeking professional advice. Larking Gowen is registered to carry out audit work in the UK and Ireland by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. Regulated for a range of investment business activities by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. ©Larking Gowen.

MARCH/APRIL 2017

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

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YOUR PASSPORT TO INTERNATIONAL TRADING Whether you’re looking to start exporting goods, or you’re already trading overseas, talk to the Norfolk Chamber International Trade Team.

We can help you with:

Documentation

Letters of Credit

Fully qualified staff providing a high quality, reliable and efficient service for all your export documentation.

Online e-zCert within 1 hour of submission.

Through our associates we off er a comprehensive and cost-effective letter of credit service – either a full or checking service – to ensure all documents are in order before being presented to the bank.

ATA Carnet ‘passport for goods’ An international customs document that permits duty/tax-free temporary import of goods or samples for up to one year into specifi c countries.

Especially useful if attending trade fairs.

Translation and Interpreting Qualified translators to communicate efficiently and effectively with your overseas clients. From an introductory letter to a product manual all documents translated swiftly and accurately.

Links to Global Network We have direct access to Chambers of Commerce and Business Centres in 41 high-growth countries who can help your business explore a specific market with market research, help find the right contacts and facilitate meetings.

Other Services Let us help you save money on your international payments. Competitive Chamber Credit Insurance can protect your business when exploring and expanding into new markets.

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C LK O RF

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To find out more visit:

norfolkchamber.co.uk/export Or contact us on 01603 729 712 or export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

HAMBER MEMBER

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S

A wide range of accredited training courses covering all aspects of international trade. Ideal for improving the skills and competence of all staff involved in exporting and/ or importing goods.

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Training Courses

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InternationalTrade

Doing Business in Japan.

Join us for our FREE international event, Doing Business in Japan, sponsored by Barclays, at Holiday Inn, Ipswich Road, Norwich on Tuesday 28 March 2017.

Japan is the world’s third largest economy in the world – bigger than the UK and Germany combined.

Around 450 British companies currently operate in Japan from major FTSE 100 companies to small businesses. Visible high street names include Lush, Ted Baker and Burberry. Larger multinationals such as Barclays have a strong presence in Japan.

giving advice and guidance on doing business in Japan.

To book you place go to norfolkchamber.co.uk/events/ chamber-event/doing-business-japan

Hear our expert speakers, Mr Daisaku Yukita, Deputy Director General of Jetro London, Tom Bool, Founder of Integro Languages aznd Jeff Evans, Regional Director (Eastern), Barclays Trade and Working Capital, Corporate Banking

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ATA Carnet.

Duty-free and tax-free temporary imports The ATA Carnet is an international customs document that permits duty-free and tax-free temporary import of goods for up to one year. The initials “ATA” are an acronym of the French and English words “Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission”.

ATA Carnets cover almost everything: n Commercial samples; n Professional equipment; n Goods for use at trade fairs, shows,

exhibitions.

ATA Carnets cover the usual and unusual; computers, repair tools, photographic and film equipment, musical instruments, industrial machinery, vehicles, jewellery, clothing, medical appliances, aircraft, race horses and art work to name a few.

ATA Carnets do not cover perishable or consumable items or goods for processing or repair.

Speed through customs n ATA Carnets reduce costs to exporters

by eliminating value-added tax (VAT) and customs duties.

n Carnets simplify customs border crossings

and cut red tape by allowing importers and exporters to use a single document for all customs formalities.

To obtain information on the ATA Carnet system please contact Norfolk Chamber of Commerce on 01603 729715, e-mail export@norfolkchamber. co.uk or visit our website.

n Carnet holders are not required to post

securities with customs.

Want to grow your overseas business? – Norfolk Chamber can put you in touch with British Chambers of Commerce overseas – contact us on export@norfolkchamber.co.uk for more details.

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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

Advertising

Feeling lost with Data Protection Reform? Don’t worry, it’s not just you.

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This time next year, most UK and EU businesses will have implemented or be in the process of implementing new processes and tools to help them meet the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) that will come into force in Spring 2018.

There are a number of great ideas behind this reform, seeking to protect the data and data rights of individual people.

Many of the elements that make up these new rules require software providers to create new tools and parameters in their product.

We (along with most other SaaS providers) started spec’ing the bits of development we would need to do towards the tail end of last year to make sure we’d have them completed in time.

This work will mean you’ll have the tools you need to implement these new regulations, but there are many unanswered questions around how they will work in practice.

Let me give you an example: HMRC says that as a company you need to keep your accounting records for 6 years. GDPR states that you can only keep financial records of former clients for “a reasonable amount of time.” Will these two time frames marry up nicely? No one seems to know.

Another example is the new rules around removing certain pieces of data after a given period of time, let’s use the National Insurance number of your former employees.

After they leave your company, you’ll need to hang on to it in

your records for a while, but then remove it after that “reasonable amount of time.” Easy enough to remove from your system, but what about from your archived and backed up data?

You don’t want to get rid of your archives in case you need them, but will it still be considered reasonable to have this information in your system’s back-ups after another 12-18 months?

You can see how the questions can start to mount up, can’t you?

Now I’m not saying for one second that I think the GDPR is a bad idea.

I think seeking to provide people with greater protection for their data is something we should have done years ago.

But. But, but, but.

How can you practically implement these reforms?

Sadly, it’s a question that just hasn’t been properly answered yet.

It’s not to say there isn’t time, legal experts have a good year or more to start getting the guidance sorted for how these reforms are going to work in practice and what companies need to do to meet them.

And we are starting to see information trickling out.

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

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) are regularly adding new guidance and advice to their website in order to help businesses prepare for the reforms. If you aren’t sure about how these changes will affect your business, I would always suggest you head over to https://ico. org.uk/for-organisations/ where you can find their most up-to-date advice about GDPR under the “Data protection reform” section.

I would also suggest that you get in touch with your service providers to find out what they are doing to prepare for these reforms and when you should expect to start seeing these new tools coming into your system.

important, official guidelines that they can use to make sure they are doing everything they can to protect our data. But I suspect that we won’t see this kind of clarity for another several years, once the lawsuits and court cases have been resolved, leaving all of us with even more uncertainty than we had before.

To talk to a member of the OpenCRM team about how CRM software can benefit your brand, just call 01748 473000 or visit the website: www.opencrm.co.uk

We’re expecting to provide the necessary system updates towards the tail end of this year/early next year, for example. We want to give our customers a good few months to get to grips with them and get them configured in time to meet that Spring 2018 deadline.

But this uncertainty around how the regulation will work, what tools will be needed, and how businesses need to implement them really isn’t helping.

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

It is my sincere hope that, by March this year, businesses and service providers have clear and most

MARCH/APRIL 2017

BusinessSupport Special offer to fellow members of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and readers of NV magazine only.

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Also, a completely FREE no obligation site survey.

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Although we are Norfolk based we serve most of the UK via our regional offices.

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Every job, no matter how big or small is important to us and we are well aware that attention to detail is essential in any successful campaign.

As Approved Contractors with Constructionline and Safecontractor plus members of the NICEIC and Exor high standards are expected and delivered.

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Where are your critical documents stored today?

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

Advertising

‘BEE’ greener and save money for free.

Businesses in Norfolk and Suffolk can ‘BEE’ greener and save money for free, thanks to the BEE Anglia project launched last year. European funding was approved just in the nick of time to help businesses grow sustainably while cutting their energy costs.

So far BEE Anglia have awarded £23,130 in grant funding for various energy efficiency projects including radiant heating, vehicle tracking, wood burner and lighting. The scope for grant funding has been widened to enable ANY energy efficiency measure to be considered. Approval will be based on being able to demonstrate sufficient associated energy savings.

The BEE Anglia project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and is being delivered across the region through a partnership of Groundwork, Norfolk County Council, NWES and Suffolk County Council.

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To date the project has reviewed 142 organisations and identified cost savings of £1,334,026 (£9,395 per business), and carbon savings

of 17,445t (123t per business). The savings identified are the equivalent of 5185 flights from London to Sydney.

“Having a BEE Anglia advisor come to our business and take the time to understand our individual needs and requirements was very valuable; the report that they produced for us has enabled us to prioritise improvements to our premises that will have the most significant energy

and cost savings and reduce our carbon footprint. The fact they could then help us with a grant towards this was a very welcome bonus.”

Tim Basey-Fisher, St. John’s Hall Storage in Beccles The project has three core offers that have been designed to help businesses reduce carbon and save money using independent advice (FREE Energy reviews), grant funding and recognition

grant g fundin

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for their efforts (Carbon Charter accreditation).

If your organisation is interested in the service, register your interest online (www.beeanglia.org) or call Groundwork on 01473 350370. Our dedicated advisors will be able to answer any queries about eligibility for the programme or potential grant projects.

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

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Norse driving investment, revenue and employment in Norfolk.

Norse Commercial Services is one of Norwich’s success stories, helping to drive the local economy through investment, revenue generation and employment opportunities.

Ten years ago, Norse Commercial Services provided employment for around 1,000 people in and around Norwich.

Today, having continued to deliver impressive, sustainable growth which defied the last economic slowdown, that figure is over 3,000.

The company, whose headquarters is still in Norwich, is now a £180m, UK-wide major player in facilities management, contract services and local authority partnerships, bringing vital income and local supplier expenditure to the area.

Founded in Norfolk over 25 years ago, Norse is now an established name across the country, thanks to a proven reputation for cost efficiency, value and innovative service delivery. The group now operates 15 joint venture company subsidiaries with local authority partners, which have saved the public purse tens of millions of pounds over the last decade.

Within Norfolk, Norse boasts a number of prestigious clients including the Norwich Research Park, University of East Anglia, Archant, and

t 01603 894100 e info@ncsgrp.co.uk w www.ncsgrp.co.uk

Norfolk County and Norwich City Councils, as well as numerous small and medium sized organisations that are part of the local business infrastructure.

Sales Director Geoff Tucker puts it down to the innovative approach Norse takes: “Norse has a well-earned reputation for flexibility, dynamism and innovation, whilst delivering cost-efficiency, value and quality,” he says. “We develop long-term relationships with clients, sharing goals and agreeing outcomes, rather than taking the traditional contractor/supplier approach.”

This ethos certainly seems to work as Norse is set for another record year in 2017. The company’s impressive growth - sales are up 10% year-on-year - has led to significant increases in employment opportunities in Norse’s Norwich head office, as well as in its numerous operating divisions and joint venture partnerships around the country.

Tucker believes that Norfolk is a great place to do business and that Norse is well-known as a major ‘force for good’ in the local economy.

“Norse provides secure jobs and millions of pounds’ worth of business for local companies through our supply chain and staff wages.,” he says. “We also play an active role in the local Chamber of Commerce and business initiatives and in adding social value in terms of support for a wide range of local communities and individuals.”

Tucker says that Norse continues to be fully committed to Norwich as its head office base, and to being very much a part of the local area’s future.

Work well under way on offs Progress is being made on planning for a major wind farm project that will see up to 1.3 million homes supplied by electricity generated off the Norfolk coast.

Swedish state-owned energy company Vattenfall is developing Norfolk Vanguard, a 1.8 gigawatt development to be located more than 47km from the shore, so far out that you will not be able to see it from land.

The project, which would go operational in the mid-2020s if approved, is expected to create many jobs and boost the local economy, according to the man overseeing Vanguard and its sister scheme Norfolk Boreas.

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Andrew Paine. Head of Offshore Wind Development UK for Vattenfall, said: “We expect the project to have a beneficial effect on the UK economy both in terms of contracts placed for the manufacture of the turbines and in areas such as construction.

In February 2016, the joint venture between Vattenfall and ScottishPower Renewables was replaced with individual project specific agreements from The Crown Estate for each developer to progress their interests independently.

Vattenfall have now started developing plans for the northern half of the zone, which is split into two development areas, Norfolk Vanguard and adjoining it Norfolk Boreas, both named after ships commanded by Lord Nelson in the 1700s.

Vanguard is the first project to be developed with an application for consent due to go into the Planning Inspectorate in the second quarter of 2018 with Boreas a year behind.

“The wind energy industry offers plenty of opportunities and we have been seeing the supply chain responding to the challenges.”

Taken together, the two projects will have an operating capacity of 3.6GW, with the potential to provide power to up to 2.6 million UK homes.

The seeds of the project can be traced back to 2010 when Vattenfall acquired rights from The Crown Estate, in a joint venture with ScottishPower Renewables, to develop the East Anglia Offshore Wind Farm Zone.

Before the application for consent is submitted, the company has been involved in a wide-ranging consultation on the plans, which include a proposal to bring power to the shore between Bacton and Eccles-on-Sea. Vattenfall will run

Norfolk was selected for a number of reasons and not just the fact that there is plenty of offshore wind. The waters are shallow, which makes it easier to carry out construction, access to the National Grid is good and there are a lot of port facilities along the Norfolk coast.

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

an underground cable from shore to connect into the existing National Grid’s substation near Necton.

One round of consultation helping to shape the Norfolk Vanguard project took place last year with another due in March and third one later in the year before the proposal is finalised.

Vattenfall recently revealed its latest thinking based on the results of the first consultation. Local people and communities along the proposed 60km underground cable route for the wind farm were informed that the potential development area had narrowed from a 3-7km wide search area to a 700 metre corridor. The narrowing of the search area allows more focused environmental surveys.

Ruari Lean, Vattenfall’s Project Development Manager for Norfolk Vanguard, said: “We spoke with nearly eight hundred people last autumn and as a result we have been able to make good progress on the development of Norfolk Vanguard.”

“We have managed to narrow the search area for the cable route from what was around 7,000 metres at its widest to 700 since the public engagement last autumn. That allows us to focus our ecological assessment work. We are looking forward to discussing these plans with people in March and then refining the route further later this year with the benefit of more local feedback.

“The summary report found that many people were interested in the benefits of the project. We know from experience that economic, social and environmental benefits from wind farm investment can be significant. So one of our priorities in 2017 is to talk further to people about how we can have a really winning impact.”

Andrew Paine said: “Norfolk was selected for a number of reasons and not just the fact that there is plenty of offshore wind.

“The waters are shallow, which makes it easier to carry out construction, access to the National Grid is good and there are a lot of port facilities along the Norfolk coast.

“Taken together, those factors make it an ideal place to site an offshore wind farm and, once the consultation is complete, the application for consent will go in with a decision expected some time in 2019. These decisions can take a long time.

“Although Vanguard and Boreas are separate projects, we are beginning work on Boreas as well and will go to consultation. Effectively, Boreas will be a year behind Vanguard.”

One of the big advantages, as with any new technology, is the way the finances become more attractive as they mature and that is certainly the case with wind energy.

Andrew said: “Offshore wind is becoming more competitive as the costs reduce.”

MARCH/APRIL 2017

BigInterview

shore green energy scheme.

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Andrew Paine Head of Offshore Wind Development UK, Vattenfall

MARCH/APRIL 2017

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

Changes to the way apprenticeships are funded.

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Paula Bailey Head of Employment at Howes Percival LLP, explains what the changes will mean.

In April, the way the Government funds apprenticeships in England is changing and many businesses will find themselves facing new obligations.

However, many business people still find themselves confused as to what effect the new Apprenticeship Levy will have on them.

The Apprenticeship Levy will come into force on April 6. Its introduction means that employers

with an annual pay bill of more than £3m will need to pay 0.5% of their NIC pay bill for the tax year on the Apprenticeship Levy.

It could change the way people think about learning and skills so we could see some more creative thinking.

Employers will then be able to access funding for apprenticeships through a new digital apprenticeship service account.

You don’t have to pay the levy to benefit from it so we could well see more smaller businesses taking on apprentices to take advantage of the levy available.

The Government will apply a 10% top up to the funds that an employer has to spend on apprenticeship training in England. Funds will expire 24 months after they enter the employer’s digital account unless they are spent on apprenticeship training.

The introduction of the levy means that employers will need to consider their strategy for employing apprentices and how best to utilise the funding.

I think there is the possibility that we will see more apprenticeships because companies who pay the levy will want to obtain value for money.

The problem is that the Government has taken a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach and that does not suit every business. For example, one of the stipulations is that 20% of the training has to be off the job and that does not suit every business.

There is also an issue with certain companies and sectors where there may be a greater number of lower skilled workers, such as the leisure and food and drink sectors, who are struggling to work out how they could make this work. There is a limit to the number of times you can teach someone to pull a pint.

Celebrating the role of apprentices.

The tenth annual National Apprenticeship Week will take place between March 6-10 and provide an opportunity to celebrate apprenticeships across all industries and all levels.

Employers and apprentices from across England will come together to demonstrate the many benefits that apprenticeships can bring.

Toolkits have been created, to help employers, apprentices, MPs, schools, colleges and training providers to support the week.

The week will encourage more employers to take on apprentices and individuals to choose an apprenticeship as a ladder of opportunity to a great career.

Sue Husband, director of the National Apprenticeship Service, said: “National Apprenticeship Week is a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate the many benefits of apprenticeships.

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

“Year-on-year I am overwhelmed by how many organisations get behind the week and show their support with the huge amount of events and activities that take place across the country. I have no doubt that this, our tenth anniversary, will be our biggest and best week yet.”

National Apprenticeship Week 2017 is coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service and you can find out more at gov.uk/government/topical-events/ national-apprenticeship-week-2017

MARCH/APRIL 2017

ChamberFeature Rain’s story shows the value of apprenticeships.

The value of an apprenticeship is illustrated in the story of Rain Crowson, who works for Norwichbased Naked Element, which designs and builds software, mobile apps and websites.

Rain, who is 18 and from Norwich, is a Level 4 Apprentice working as a Business Administrator and PA to Director Paul Grenyer, having joined the company last July.

She said: “I attended City College in Norwich and studied business administration and finance.

“I wanted to be a PA and did not think that I needed to go to university to develop the skills I needed.

“I met Paul at a breakfast event and he talked to me about becoming an Apprentice. Being an Apprentice allows me to develop the skills I need as I work and I also receive sales training once a week. I learn from the people I work with. I can always ask for advice.”

Degree and Master level apprenticeships present exciting opportunity.

By Prof Neil Ward Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic), University of East Anglia Degree and Master level apprenticeships provide an exciting development in vocational higher education, and a new opportunity for universities and business to forge partnerships. A well-considered and planned scheme has the potential to benefit not only the workforce and employers but the economy as a whole.

With the growing prevalence of degree apprenticeships comes a sense of ‘rebranding’ as apprenticeships take on a higher-level solution to the skills-gap issue.

Degree apprenticeships will aim to provide a high-calibre of vocationally experienced university graduates, meaning higher education institutions will continue to train the leaders of the future while giving greater opportunity to students from all backgrounds.

At UEA, our academic staff include worldleading experts with knowledge and insights that can benefit a wide-range of sectors, employers and job roles so it’s vital that we understand business needs in order to fully meet their requirements. Our range of courses and schools of study – including health sciences; computing sciences;

MARCH/APRIL 2017

education; engineering; and business – can benefit businesses affected by the levy, and could be a good way for them to attract, retain and upskill existing and new staff. The integration of academic teaching and rigorous assessment with practical work and on-thejob training is pivotal to degree apprentices successfully demonstrating the right skills, knowledge and behaviours for the job.

Paul said: “Rain is the second apprentice we have taken on and I like the idea because it means that we get young people before they have developed any bad habits. We can shape them to work in our way.

“I am not worried that taking on an apprentice means you have to do more training because you are learning all the time in software anyway.

“What we have also found talking to our apprentices is that they develop a great loyalty to the business.”

At present, we are seeking to understand the nature of the demand for degree apprenticeships from businesses and employers across our region. We believe a tailored, strategic approach is necessary for organisations to recover as much value from the levy as possible, and we are encouraging businesses to not only make an individual assessment, but to also talk to us and their peers to gain perspective on the bigger picture for their sector.

UEA aims to develop existing employer relationships, establish new relationships and to build on successful collaborations which could complement the ways in which employers recruit graduates. By aligning the development of degree apprenticeships with UEA’s vision and objectives for growth and success, we hope the initiative will help in driving education and business forward together.

For more information please email apprenticeships@uea.ac.uk

“Being an Apprentice allows me to develop the skills I need as I work and I also receive sales training once a week. I learn from the people I work with. I can always ask for advice.”

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

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Cecil Gowing Infant School supports Marie Curie daffodil bulb planting.

Desire Marketing celebrates merger first anniversary.

Norwich based marketing company Desire Marketing is celebrating the first anniversary of its merger with fellow local business Traded Network.

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The two companies merged on the 1st February 2016 and since then the new company has focused on expanding its portfolio of digital and traditional marketing services to businesses in Norfolk and across the UK. Jonathan White, Managing Director, said “The past 12 months have been an exciting time for the company.

We’ve experienced a fantastic growth in sales which

has been down to a real team effort by everyone working here. The merger last year made us more efficient as a business and has enabled us to provide an even better service to our clients. This has been evidenced by the 233% increase in monthly sales we’ve seen over the past year and the new contracts we’re winning.”

The company has also grown in size taking on new staff and expanding from five team members last February to eight today – with recruitment for more staff currently on the go.

Former stable lad gets back in the saddle for cancer charity.

Former stable lad John Neilson is to get back in the saddle to raise money for a cancer charity, John, 51, the Commercial Director of Newcastle-based publishers, marketing specialists and Chamber member Distinctive Group, has been selected to ride in the Macmillan Charity Horse Race at York Races in June.

He has already begun his training, regularly riding out for Rose and Tony Dobbin in Northumberland to ensure he is fit enough.

He will be among twelve members of the public who will saddle up at York Racecourse to race and raise thousands of pounds for Macmillan Cancer Support, in the Best Western Hotels-sponsored Ride of their Lives.

They will all enter the record books as the race is part of the oldest and biggest charity raceday in the world - Macmillan Charity Raceday - which will see its 47th year on Saturday 17th June.

John, who lives in Weardale, worked in racing as a stable lad. He said: “My wife’s cousin was taken by cancer a few years ago at a really young age so this is my way of doing something for an excellent cause. I’ve

pledged to raise £5,000 so every penny counts no matter how big or small a donation.”

Brighter Law have sponsored John to the tune of £3,000 and he will be carrying their company name and logo on his breeches on the day of the race.

Sales Director Sam Stanfield said: “Brighter Law Solutions are delighted to sponsor John. Macmillian is a charity close to our hearts, so to raise money and awareness for such a great cause is an honour.”

You can support John at his Just Giving page: justgiving.com/fundraising/John-Neilson3

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

Twelve children, aged four to seven, from Cecil Gowing Infant School in Norwich, planted 24 daffodil bulbs at the Maids Head Hotel to help raise money for Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal. The children also decorated pots and then planted their own daffodil bulb to take home.

Chamber member The Maids Head is inviting people to sponsor a daffodil bulb for £15, with the money going to Marie Curie. To aid identification each child also added name sticks next to their bulbs.

Eloise Moore, teacher at Cecil Gowing Infant School said: “All the children take part in outdoor learning once a week in mixed age groups, either at the school or out in the community. We were really pleased to return to the Maids Head, after working with the hotel on our wedding event last year.

The children learn about different charities, so this has been an excellent opportunity to introduce them to Marie Curie and also for them to visit a city hotel.”

Have you got a good news story to share?

Chamber members can publish on our website for free!

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

MARCH/APRIL 2017

MemberNews From Nelson's County to Nelson City export win for Gurney Environmental.

Double award win for Finn Geotherm.

Norfolk-based renewable heating expert Finn Geotherm, has won two highly prestigious industry trophies at the National ACR & Heat Pump Awards 2017. The company was also highly commended for a third.

Finn Geotherm was awarded the Non-Domestic Ground Source Project of the Year Award for its landmark installation at RAGT Seeds in Cambridgeshire. The ground source heat pump system provides both heating and passive cooling for six of RAGT Seeds’ glasshouses which are used for developing crops. The installation has revolutionised the way in which RAGT Seeds heats

Gurney Environmental kick started 2017 with the receipt of an new order from the City of Nelson in New Zealand.

and cools its glasshouses, not to mention producing significant cost and energy savings.

The company also won the Domestic Ground Source Project Award for its ground source heat pump installation at Weybourne Mill – a picturesque 18th Century tower windmill in North Norfolk. The system specified and installed by Finn Geotherm provides low maintenance heating and hot water for the whole house, including a mill bedroom all the way up on the fifth floor.

In addition, Finn Geotherm was highly commended within the Heat Pump Installer of the Year category.

Golf Day raises £12,750 for Macmillan!

This was the 18th year that Rogers & Norton have hosted this event and a record sum was raised on the day amounting to £12,750.00 to help those suffering from cancer in Norfolk.

The cheque was presented to Nicola Clark, Macmillan Fundraising Manager for West Norfolk & West Suffolk, and Sema Hussein, Fundraising Manager for Norwich & North Norfolk, by the fundraising team from the Solicitors Practice consisting of Graham Knights, who MARCH/APRIL 2017

The first phase of the order includes the supply of nine wind powered SERIES 3 aerator/mixers to replace the existing electric aerators/ aspirators which are costly to run.

Following a lengthy consultation process with Gurney Environmental Nelson City Council chose the Accel-o-Fac system for its sustainable credentials and proven ability to improve the wastewater treatment process in facultative lagoons and extend the life of the wwtp.

The order also follows the successful demonstration of the Accel-o-Fac system with Australian Water Utilities at selected sites, including the Toora wwtp owned and operated by South Gippsland Water, where improved processing and a significant reduction in energy have been achieved.

The Annual Charity Golf Day for Macmillan Cancer Support was held at Barnham Broom when more than 100 golfers enjoyed the Valley course followed by a grand dinner, auction and raffle to fundraise for the Charity where they were joined by additional guests.

Graham Knights, Practice Manager for Rogers & Norton, said: “Barnham Broom is an excellent venue for this event with all the staff there buying into the cause with their enthusiastic help and support to help make the day successful. The support we have also received from companies and individuals alike has been amazing as cancer seems to touch so many people’s lives now and we are extremely grateful for their invaluable help every year.”

The West Norfolk based sustainable wastewater treatment solutions provider have received an order from Nelson City Council in New Zealand to supply their Accel-o-Fac wastewater treatment upgrade to a wastewater treatment plant owned and operated by the City Council.

£1 million worth of Legal Expenses Cover included in your membership, visit

is also an Ambassador for the charity in Norfolk, Ellie Walpole and Emma Wilson plus Abbi Knights from Barclays and Greg Hacon representing Barnham Broom Golf Club.

The fundraising was supported by Barclays £4£ scheme whereby three members of staff at Barclays nominated this event as their chosen charity.

norfolkchamber.co.uk/ connections/memberbenefits

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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

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The benefits of membership: A Member story.

Desire Marketing has been a member of the Norfolk Chamber for three years now and find it a valuable part of our business support network.

Over the three years I have personally built up an excellent relationship with the Chamber, who have provided me with additional opportunities including running a workshop at the last Talking Technology conference on how to get seen online, delivering some of the ‘be better at’ training sessions and now I deliver the social media for business course as part of the new member training programme.

There are many ways the Chamber can help your business in support and advice, marketing, networking and the Chamber has a voice to influence change. Also remember to keep looking at all the member-to-member offers that are listed online. I have listed the top five areas where the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce has helped our business.

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Networking - Meeting new connections is key to growing our business. We have attended many networking events and as a result we have been introduced to many local business people.

Networking is all about getting to like, know and trust people.

Marketing solutions - As a marketing company we always say to our clients or prospects that they should join the Norfolk Chamber because of the marketing benefits that come with membership. You are reading this article, only because of our membership! The online directory links you to many people online and I believe the best marketing tool for your business is the online member news section, as you can add your website link to your story which generates good search engine optimisation for your site.

Plus any news that you publish may end up in this magazine. In the past 12 months we have had three articles published in Norfolk Voice.

Training - The Chamber offers some excellent training courses, these can be the free sessions that last just an hour or the new Training Room, which offers half day courses at great value for money. In 2017 we will be making more use of the training provided.

Jonathan White, Managing Director of Desire Marketing

documents and forms to help with your employee activity and people to talk to on the phone for HR or legal advice. We have used both of these services and I am sure saved a small fortune on external fees.

Social events - Meeting people outside of work is a much more relaxed environment. The Chamber puts on some really good social events. In the summer, I went to the quiz jointly organised by the Norfolk and the Cambridge Chamber, which was great fun and I also met new connections.

Plus the events are a great way to include your staff. We had four members of staff recently attend the John Lewis Christmas event.

If you use your Chamber membership to its full potential the value it gives is fantastic. We look forward to being members for years to come.

Free HR and Legal support - This is an extremely useful service that is included in the membership. A whole bank of free HR

If you use your Chamber membership to its full potential the value it gives is fantastic. We look forward to being members for years to come.

Norfolk Chamber Gold Patron Scheme.

The Patron Scheme is a strategic partnership between business and Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.

Becoming a Patron offers benefits additional to those acquired by becoming a member of the Suffolk Chamber. These include opportunities to gain high profile connections across business, media and with political leaders throughout Norfolk and on a national level.

The Benefits

Who can be a Gold Patron?

As a patron member you gain additional exclusive benefits that are not accessible to standard Chamber members.

There is no restriction on the type or size of a business that can become a patron, but it is best aimed at those who see increased profile & brand awareness as a key goal going forward.

n High Profile and Strategic Networking n Raising your Brand Awareness through

profile on the Chamber’s website and newsletters

n Influencing Policy on a Local, Regional and

National Level

n Increased Credibility

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

What does it cost?

Gold Patronage is £7000 + VAT paid annually.

Our current Patrons are below.

For more information, contact Jason Williams: 01603 729 704, jason.williams@norfolkchamber.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2017

MembershipNews

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Norfolk Chamber launches new-look website.

We are delighted to announce the launch of our completely redesigned website.

The new website has been designed to provide the ultimate user-friendly experience with improved navigation and functionality throughout; whether you’re looking to upload your own content, browse through our huge collection of events or find out more about how we can help your business.

With the user experience firmly in mind, our new website has been designed to be more mobilefriendly, load much faster and easier to navigate.

New features: New Workbench We have now introduced the ‘workbench’. This is where Chamber members can manage and upload their content more efficiently. You can see which stage your content is at; ‘draft’, ‘needs review’ or ‘published’.

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Edit your Directory Listing We have enabled the ability for Chamber members to update their online directory listings.

Use our Website User Guide to help you upload content: norfolkchamber.co.uk/website-user-guide

Content Filters We have now implemented filters onto our Events, Training, News and Blogs to make things easier to find.

Further exposure We always aim to promote our members content in a variety of ways to maximise the amount of exposure.

Why should you upload?

The Norfolk Chamber website can be used by our members as a free PR platform to promote their activities. The type of content you can promote includes case studies, a new product or service, any events you are running, Blogs and training courses.

Member News and Blogs are always pushed out on our Twitter feed to a following of over 7,600, and put forward for inclusion in this magazine, which has an estimated readership of 10,000 business people.

Some of the benefits in doing this include:

Member Events and Training Courses are included in our own monthly Events Newsletter to a database of over 9,000 business contacts.

n Average of over 10,000 visitors per month

norfolkchamber.co.uk

n Raise your business profile in Norfolk n Highlight yourself as an expert within your

sector

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

Advertising

Self-employed, or not?…what?

Companies are being warned to take employment law advice regarding their contractual arrangements with “selfemployed” contractors following the recent decision by the Court of Appeal in Pimlico Plumbers ltd and another v Smith.

There are 3 types of employment status that an individual can be categorised as from an employment law standpoint. Each category of status has different rights attached to it, the 3 categories are; employees, workers and selfemployed contractors. An employee is afforded the full set of rights, a worker being entitled to fewer (for example, minimum wage, paid annual leave, along with some other procedural rights, such as a right to be accompanied at any form of disciplinary meeting and is entitled to protection from the Equality Act etc) and a self-employed contractor having extremely limited protection from employment related legislation.

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Despite the contractual agreement between the company and Mr Smith describing him as a “self-employed operative” the Court of Appeal said that the original Employment Tribunal had been entitled to stand back and looked at the arrangement as a whole. There have been a few recent high-profile cases whereby self-employed contractors have successfully argued “worker” status despite their written contract clearly

setting out a ‘self-employed’ status (CitySprint and Uber, Uber are in the process of appealing this decision).

Consequently, the written contract is becoming less definitive in determining the true employment status of individuals and the Tribunal is becoming more inclined to look at the true working relationship between the parties.

The potential consequences of these cases for some companies are huge. One of the significant consequences of the decision which could create a substantial financial liability for some companies is a “workers” right to holiday pay, which would be enforced retrospectively.

Fortunately, the law changed in 2015 when the government enacted the Deduction from Wages (Limitation) Regulations 2014 which imposes a two year limitation period on unlawful deductions from wages claims presented on or after 1st July 2015. So, the liability to pay all of your “workers” holiday pay would only extend back two years but this could still be an extensive liability for any company subject to a claim.

HR Answers is a UK leading specialist in Human Resources, Recruitment and Selection and Training and Development Services. We offer a flexible, affordable service tailored to your business. It is our personable approach which sets us apart from our competitors. We make an effort to become familiar with our clients, to gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of their operations. We offer high level employment law advice in a clear and practical manner to enable you to effectively run your business.

Call us at HR Answers for a friendly chat: 07979 365724 or info@hranswersltd.co.uk www.hranswersltd.co.uk

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09/02/2017 10:05:58 MARCH/APRIL 2017

Training

IntelligenciaTraining increases cyber security awareness at council.

Cyber security specialists Intelligencia Training have carried out a successful training programme for investigators at a London council to help them tackle cyber crime and fraud.

Intelligencia Training, which runs the Cyber Stars initiative to help organisations large and small prevent security breaches, delivered the course for staff at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

The Cyber Stars initiative, which has been designed and developed by cyber security experts, is an on-site one day course which gives people an improved understanding of cyber security. It is the only programme of its kind backed by a nationally-recognised qualification and access to ongoing learning materials via the Cyber Stars e-learning platform.

Andy Hyatt, Head of Fraud at the Council, said; “One of the fastest emerging fraud risks that councils face is the threat of cybercrime, which is why I felt my investigation officers needed to get a better understanding of what cybercrime is and how it manifests itself.

“People invariably look towards the ICT Department to protect organisations against cybercrime but it’s everyone’s responsibility and, while ICT are centre stage in maintaining cybersecurity, I want officers from the Corporate Anti-Fraud Service to support them by maintaining awareness and disseminating good practice. This course has given them the skills to achieve this goal.

“The course gave us a greater understanding of best practice in cyber security. It discussed the different types of cybercrime threats, from

MARCH/APRIL 2017

remote attacks like malware or hacking to more intrusive threats like social engineering.

“The initiative provides the Council with the assurance that officers have attained a good level of competency in cyber security. This is the sort of course that will be beneficial long after the classroom session.

“Cybercrime is constantly evolving and, through the initiative and post-course support provided, we will continue to be kept up to date with details of new threats, emerging risks and the latest developments.”

of every person working at any level of an organisation and Cyber Stars provides vital information to help them guard against online criminals. With over 90% of cyber attacks being directly linked to user error or lack of awareness organisations the Cyber Stars offers a cost effective solution to an ever growing risk.”

You can find out more about Intelligencia Training Limited and its products at www.intelligenciatraining.com

Intelligencia Training is working to improve cyber security at many organisations including financial institutions and local authorities.

Nick Atkinson, Commercial Director, said: “We believe that cyber security is the responsibility

“Cybercrime is constantly evolving and, through the initiative and post-course support provided, we will continue to be kept up to date with details of new threats, emerging risks and the latest developments.”

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

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Diary Dates.

Networking Events John Lewis Beauty Evening Where: John Lewis, Norwich When: Thursday, 2 March 2017, 5:30pm to 8:00pm Round up your colleagues and join us on for an evening of networking, beauty demonstrations and plenty of bubbly at John Lewis, Norwich.

West Norfolk Nites Where: Bank House Hotel King’s Lynn When: Monday, 27 March 2017, 6:00pm to 8:00pm Be part of a growing network of businesses from West and North Norfolk, whilst indulging in delicious canapes and drinks supplied by Bank House Hotel.

Free to attend, booking required.

Great Yarmouth Business Breakfast

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Where: Great Yarmouth Racecourse When: Thursday 20 April 2017, 07:30am to 09:30am Join us for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast. We will have an interesting presentation delivered

by John Vingoe, Operations Manager, Seajacks.

Fake News: A West Norfolk Business Breakfast Where: King’s Lynn Football Club When: Tuesday, 25 April 2017, 8:00am to 10:00am Fake news is a topic concerning the world right now – but how does it affect businesses? Join us along with Mark Leslie, Editor of Lynn News as he provides an informative talk on the dangers of fake news to businesses of all sizes. The morning will also provide an opportunity to network, make new contacts and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Member only event.

Norwich Business Breakfast Where: Norwich When: Thursday 25 May 2017, 7:30am to 9:30am Our Norwich breakfast events attract businesses from across the county, making them a great tool for networking and business promotion.

Special Events Cyber Security Conference Where: The Space, Norwich When: Thursday 18 May, 2017, 9:00am to 12:30pm On 25 May 2018 a new European regulation will come into effect meaning that businesses will have to completely re-think

their data protection regimes.

This is something that affects all businesses, from SME’s to corporate giants across the country. The agenda will look to bring speakers from a range of businesses and backgrounds, including live demonstrations, to inform you of how your business can stay safe in the modern age of technology. Member only event.

Talking Technology Where: The Space, Norwich When: Wednesday 20 September, 2017, 9:00am to 1:00pm Norfolk’s premier annual business technology event.

This is an interactive half day featuring expert local and national key note speakers, practical workshops, an exclusive tech sector exhibition and plenty of networking opportunities. Open to all businesses.

B2B Exhibition Where: Norwich City Football Club When: Thursday, 12 October 2017, 10:00am to 4:00pm The B2B Exhibition is back for 2017 following our most successful B2B in 2016, hosting over 100 exhibitors and over 750 business people! You can book your stand today to be at the region’s premier business to business exhibition.

International Events Doing Business in Japan Where: Holiday Inn Norwich, Ipswich Road When: Tuesday, 28 March 2017, 2:30pm to 4:30pm Japan is the world’s third largest economy in the world - bigger than the UK and Germany combined.

Our event explores how you can start trading there. Discussing; How to enter the market, possible business opportunities for UK businesses, what to be aware of culturally and finance. Free to attend, open to all businesses.

HR Forum Mind the Gap – Pay Discrimination in the Workplace Where: Holiday Inn Norwich, Ipswich Road, Norwich When: Wednesday, 22 March 2017 2:00pm to 5:00pm Join the Norfolk Chamber for an afternoon of accessing specialist knowledge essential for any HR Professional or business owner.

Sponsored and delivered by Howes Percival. Open to all businesses.

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

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

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

MARCH/APRIL 2017

ForthcomingChamberEvents Date: Thurs 18 May 2017 Time: 09:00 – 12:30 Venue: The Space, Norwich For full information visit norfolkchamber.co.uk/ events

Keep your business safe and avoid a €20m fine.

This May Norfolk Chamber are set to deliver a new event for our members based around cyber security.

On 25 May 2018 a new European regulation will come into effect meaning that businesses will have to completely re-think their data protection regimes. This is something that affects all businesses, from SME’s to corporate giants across the country.

This morning conference will set to outline these changes, including the €20m fine if your data is hacked.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

Other topics to be included on the morning will be: n Trends in Cyber Security n Where does Data Protection fit in?

Sponsorship and exhibition opportunities are available for this event starting at £75+VAT. Email events@ norfolkchamber.co.uk for more information.

n Inside threats n Social Media n The Internet of Everything n Developing a strategy

The agenda will look to bring speakers from a range of businesses and backgrounds, including live demonstrations, to inform you of how your business can stay safe in the modern age of technology.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

HR Forum: Mind the Gap – Pay Discrimination in the Workplace.

Date: Wed, 22 March 2017 Time: 14:00 to 17:00 Venue: Holiday Inn Norwich, Ipswich Road, Norwich Open to all businesses, for more information and to book your place visit: norfolkchamber.co.uk/ events Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Employers with 250 or more employees will soon be required to publish a report setting out the gender pay gap within their organisation.

A concern for employers is the risk that this will lead to an increase in employees pursuing claims for sex discrimination and equal pay.

This HR Forum will help you understand the law surrounding equal pay issues and the reporting requirements, including defences to equal pay claims, dealing with back pay and pay protection and handling an equal pay grievance. In addition, Howes Percival will review forthcoming legal reforms and recent case law decisions and identify how these developments will impact on local businesses.

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

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Expert, affordable courses and free training.

Business Training Chamber Training offers a wide range of training solutions to help you unlock the potential of your workforce and boost your business performance.

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Training Course

Date

Format

Members Price

Non member Price

Make your LinkedIn profile work for you

01/03/2017

MORNING

£125+VAT

£150+VAT

The Art of Networking

24/03/2017

MORNING

£125+VAT

£150+VAT

Create Profitable Google AdWords Campaigns

29/03/2017

FULL DAY

£200+VAT

£250+VAT

Speaking and Presenting with IMPACT

05/05/2017

MORNING

£125+VAT

£150+VAT

Social media for business

10/05/2017

AFTERNOON

£125+VAT

£150+VAT

Finance for non-financial managers

12/05/2017

MORNING

£125+VAT

£150+VAT

How to write engaging web and print copy

16/05/2017

MORNING

£125+VAT

£150+VAT

International Export Training Delivered by experienced trainers, these courses are specifically designed for staff involved in exporting and/ or importing cargo to and from the UK. Most international courses are accredited.

Training Course

Date

Format

Members Price

Non member Price

Incoterms 2010

08/03/2017

FULL DAY

£248+VAT

£310+VAT

e-zCert Workshop

16/03/2017

MORNING

£35+VAT

£50+VAT

Import Procedures

05/04/2017

FULL DAY

£248+VAT

£310+VAT

Customs Procedures and Documentation

26/04/2017

MORNING

£168+VAT

£210+VAT

Agents and Distributors

03/05/2017

MORNING

£168+VAT

£210+VAT

Inward and Outward Processing Relief

03/05/2017

AFTERNOON

£168+VAT

£210+VAT

Creating an Export Strategy

04/05/2017

FULL DAY

£240+VAT

£300+VAT

To book your place on a training course visit norfolkchamber.co.uk/training

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

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

MARCH/APRIL 2017

ForthcomingChamberEvents

FREE bitesize workshops Expert advice, professional trainers and free attendance combine to create the Chamber Sessions.

These free bitesize one hour workshops over breakfast or lunch are delivered by our expert Chamber members for our Chamber members at Norfolk Chamber’s Norwich office.

Don’t miss out on these free opportunities to better your business. All sessions are free to attend as part of your Chamber membership.

Workplace Wellbeing Tuesday 14 March 2017, 8:30am to 10am What works and what doesn’t in terms of workplace wellbeing? What do great leaders and managers do? And what can YOU do to help yourself and others? You’ll hear from Tom Oxley, Bamboo Mental Health and Emily Groves, Indigo Swan on the horror stories and exemplar activities from real employers.

Attracting and Retaining Skilled Staff

Serving Your Customers Through Social Media

Tuesday 21 March 2017, 8:30am to 10am

Tuesday, 28 March 2017, 8:30am to 10am

Demonstrating how investing in a benefits package for your staff, can provide financial protection for your business and contribute to its growth. By attracting talented individuals and retaining in-house expertise, your business is less likely to be impacted by high staff turnover – and it costs less than you might think. Join us for this session to hear insights from industry specialists.

No matter your size or industry, customers increasing want to contact businesses via social media. This session will show you how to turn customer enquiries and contact into opportunities to impress. You will discover how to respond to messages and comments to enhance your social media following and build a relationship with customers that leads to sales.

“The training courses are an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge and help your company grow no matter what your background is. The courses are diverse which allows you to choose the correct course specific to your requirements. They are delivered by experts who have a wealth of experience and are keen to help from a group environment through to individual needs.” Tobar Group Ltd To book a training course today: norfolkchamber.co.uk/training. events@norfolkchamber.co.uk | 01603 625977

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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

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MemberNews

Mayday links with MIGSOLV data centre to boost customers’ security across East of England.

Norwich-based IT support company Mayday IT is launching data centre ‘colocation’ and disaster recovery services to boost businesses’ security and productivity throughout the East of England, in partnership with data centre operator MIGSOLV.

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Mayday IT supports hundreds of companies across the East of England and beyond, with particular expertise in advising accountancy, legal and other professional services firms.

To-date, it has concentrated on providing IT support, maintenance, training, network design and project management.

By extending its partnership with MIGSOLV after rigorously testing its ‘Gatehouse’ data centre in Norwich, Mayday is now also introducing:

‘colocation’ services – helping companies place their IT equipment in MIGSOLV’s ultra-secure facility disaster recovery – helping customers store copies of their data safely in MIGSOLV’s data centre to avoid data loss or business interruption if anything happens to their main premises Carl Shiplee, Head of IT at Mayday, said: “This marks a milestone for our company. It gives us a whole new way to help our customers strengthen their business performance – and to drive our own growth.”

David Manning, Managing Director of MIGSOLV, said: “Mayday bring considerable expertise in advising professional services firms on their technology and an impressive reputation in this market.”

MIGSOLV are Gold Patrons of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.

Local firm Johnston Logistics UK expands warehousing capacity for pallet storage.

Local logistics firm Johnston Logistics UK (JLUK) has responded to the continued shortage of modern and fit-for-purpose warehouse space by creating an extra 6,660 new pallet storage spaces at its site at Snetterton, Norfolk.

It has been widely reported in the business media that the UK has been experiencing a short supply of warehousing space. This has been partly attributed to the increase in demand for storage from eCommerce retailers.

Rob McIndoe, Finance Director (Richard Johnston Limited), said “Our approach allows clients to flex the

TaxAssist Accountants unveils new look app.

Clients can access their accounts at the swipe of a finger whenever they want.

TaxAssist Accountants has made managing the accounts of its small business clients even easier by introducing a new look app for Apple and Android smartphones and tablets.

As the largest network of accountants specialising in servicing the needs of small businesses, TaxAssist Accountants has used this expertise to completely redesign its app so that help is just a touch away – whether the client is a builder, hairdresser or IT consultant.

With the Government’s Making Tax Digital plans set to revolutionise the way accounts are reported, there has never been a better time to move away from those spreadsheets with a swipe of a finger across a phone screen.

space they require with minimum notice. We are happy to provide a quote for storage from a few weeks to longer term contracts.”

With wide aisles and state-of-the art handling equipment, we can retrieve clients’ inventory regardless of its size or fragility. The company also holds the BRC Standard for Storage and Distribution meaning that only the best practices in handling, storing and distribution of products are used across the site.

Norfolk Chamber members can get their news stories considered for free editorial in this magazine by uploading them to norfolkchamber.co.uk

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

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

Once downloaded, the app provides clients with full access to Inuit QuickBooks Online and Receipt Bank, clients will also be able to access their accounts and upload their expenses, wherever there’s a wi-fi or mobile data connection.

James Mattam, Group Business Development Director at TaxAssist Accountants, said: “In a world where everyone wants near instant access to information, it is only natural that the next stage of this evolution for clients is being able to access their accounts and receive help from their accountants at the touch of a button.”

MARCH/APRIL 2017

NewMembers BlueSky UAV Specialists 01263 834 534 www.blueskyuav.co.uk Photography

Drone Photography Ltd 07484605375 www.dronephotography.co.uk Photography

Mandalay Events 07935 115641 www.mandalayevents.co.uk Events Management

Bullard Co 0777 555 2674 Consultants

Frontier Utility Limited 0208 506 6435 Business Services

Marine Handling Ltd 07375 409695 Marine Products

Digital Boss 01603 727768 www.digitalboss.co.uk Marketing

Jacksons CRS Limited 01603 319034 www.jacksonscrs.co.uk Debt Collection

Maven Consultants Limited 07714 133888 www.mavenconsultants.co.uk Consultants

Your new business could be here for as little as £8.25 a month. n

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37 Padgate Services Limited 01603 483358 www.padgateservices.co.uk Engineering Services

Pickr 02032898128 www.pickr.works Business Services

Pitkin & Ruddock Ltd 01502 563629 www.pitkin-ruddock.co.uk Refrigeration

Power Different 01603 406052 www.powerdifferent.co.uk Energy

Ridgeon Group Ltd 01223 466000 www.ridgeons.co.uk Building Material Suppliers

Robert Harwood Trading (East Anglia) Ltd 01953 889998 www.rhtltd.co.uk Lifting Equipment

Syrinix Limited 01953 859128 www.syrinix.com Manufacturing (General)

The Recruiting Office 01603 964816 www.therecruitingoffice. co.uk Recruitment

Ward Trade Marks Limited 01223 421779 www.wardtrademarks.com Patent Agents

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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

MemberNews US2U Consulting support the British Red Cross.

US2U Consulting were pleased to make a donation to the British Red Cross to enable them to purchase two new wheelchairs for their Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk mobility services.

The wheelchairs will be provided, alongside various other forms of mobility aids, to those in need across the East of England, with the goal of getting people more active.

38

Rachel and Kerwin Blackburn), said: “We provide various mobility aids to over 50 people each week in Norfolk alone and it is great to see businesses in the region supporting us in our goal of getting people in need more mobile and active.”

Rachel Blackburn said: “We are really happy and excited to be supporting the work of the British Red Cross in Norfolk.”

Paul Fleet, Senior Community Fundraiser (pictured alongside

World wetlands day celebrates commitment to securing Norfolk’s finest wetland.

Norfolk Wildlife Trust announced on World Wetlands Day that more than £500,000 has been donated so far to the Hickling Broad Land Purchase appeal in just three months.

The Trust is working to raise £1 million before the 31 March deadline to purchase 655 acres of the Hickling Broad Estate that were put on the open market in September 2016.

However, there is still a way to go to ensure that this internationally important and wildlife-rich wetland is secured for the future.

Norfolk Wildlife Trust Chief Executive Brendan Joyce said:, “Hickling Broad is a nationally and internationally important wildlife jewel. This will be the biggest land purchase in the Trust’s 90 years’ history.”

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ViewfromtheBoard

Norfolk’s reputation will be defined by talented business leaders.

By Caroline Williams, Chief Executive, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce I wrote recently about leadership, and how business leaders can and should have a voice in the region’s strategy. The point I was making was that the knowledge and strategic ability of business leaders is there to be used and should not be ignored.

What defines those leaders is the way in which they’ve guided and grown businesses. Those businesses in turn define the region in which they operate. We’re no exception. Norfolk is dependent on talented business leaders and we’re blessed to have many.

In fact, the quality of key people here is beginning to create an image of Norfolk that’s more than acceptable - it’s marketable.

Across a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, finance, technology and the creative businesses we have an array of high profile talent driving cutting edge companies. They’re here because Norfolk is a good place to do business. Of course we continue to campaign for improvements in our infrastructure, but in truth we

are far from inaccessible; and in a digital age we’re connected globally, 24/7.

There’s space to breathe here, and a good quality of life helps fuel the minds and bodies that run our businesses. Those already here are a clear signal to leaders and entrepreneurs everywhere that this county is the place to be.

I’m not trying to suggest that this is a new phenomenon. We have history. Norfolk has a fantastic track record of being home, and in some cases birthplace, to outstanding businesses. Aviva, and its original formation as Norwich Union; Colmans; Barclays - which began here; Lotus; all brands that are burned into the national and international consciousness, and all brands that have defined Norfolk.

And now newer organisations are following the same path. Unfettered, in a digital world, from archaic geographic restrictions, and enthused by the lifestyle, the people and the sheer variety of Norfolk’s facilities these business leaders and their teams are starting to influence us now.

They must now become the force of attraction themselves. Their success must draw others here, so that

Caroline Williams they might succeed. And when they succeed the county succeeds.

You could call it a virtuous circle.

But somehow that familiar business model is, in this case, flawed. The metaphor of a circle is a dangerous one. No matter how much ‘a recurring cycle of events, the result of each one being to increase

the beneficial effect of the next’ is a ‘good thing’, we must not go around in circles forever. It’s about changing and moving forward. About innovation. Because ultimately, it’s innovation that has defined all the leadership that defines Norfolk, and on which Norfolk, and its reputation, depends.

Introducing - the 1896 Club.

From its inception The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce has always been committed to improving and enhancing opportunities for the county’s businesses. Central to the thinking has been learning from one another through the sharing of ideas and opinions. Hand in hand with that philosophy the Chamber has striven to lobby for local commerce at the highest level.

the development of commerce in Norfolk. It’s where knowledge and awareness of crucial issues can be ‘brought to the table’.

In short, our aims have embraced being both a forum and a voice.

It’s where ideas can be implanted, and strategies developed, to ensure that our business leaders are ready to tackle emerging concepts; to make our county’s commerce fit for purpose in dealing with, for example, changing attitudes to customer care, with cyber crime, and with the threat of ‘disruptive players’.

This year we introduce the 1896 Club. Named after the year of our inception the 1896 Club is the true embodiment of those goals.

By exchanging ideas and best practice the 1896 Club will become a formidable forum and, ever mindful of our goals, a powerful voice.

We believe that the 1896 Club is a unique opportunity for the meeting of minds.

Firmly rooted in the spirit of disseminating information and opinions, it will be a forum of trust; a space where honesty and integrity will be qualities that inspire forthright conversation.

This is the forum for senior business leaders employing 50 or more staff, across all sectors, to address the issues that matter most for

The Club has been conceived for today’s business leaders and will therefore be accessible through online resources, including

Named after the year we began, this is where you make the future begin. Because you can influence it.

MARCH/APRIL 2017

a dedicated LinkedIn group, as well as regular ‘face to face’ meetings.

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

39

New head of finance appointed.

Norwich law firm Hatch Brenner has appointed Ian Johnson as Head of Finance. He will be responsible for all aspects of finance for the firm as well as being actively involved in day to day management, providing support to the Managing Partner Dawn Parkes.

Pure launches engaging new website for clients and candidates.

In addition to his new role at Hatch Brenner, Mr Johnson will continue to work as a Director – Finance and Administration for brain injury charity Headway Norfolk and Waveney Ltd. Hatch Brenner Managing Partner and Head of the Private Client department Dawn Parkes said: “We are delighted to welcome Ian to the Hatch Brenner team. His experience and friendly and approachable personality is going to be a great asset to our growing practice in the city.”

Pure has launched a new website to provide an updated platform for both clients and candidates to interact with the professional recruitment specialists for the East of England.

Colin Cook, Partner and Head of the Personal Injury team, added: “Myself and Ian have previously worked together through Ian’s involvement with Headway, and I look forward to working directly with Ian as well as strengthening the relationship between both organisations.”

Established in 2002, Pure have become established leaders and trusted advisors in the Accountancy, Executive, Financial Services, HR, IT, Marketing and Office markets.

The new website has been designed to further enhance the services it provides by offering a quicker way to search for jobs from any device, and to showcase the addedvalue Pure can provide including psychometrics, skills testing, induction support and transition coaching.

40

Restoration of Warham Reading Room completes.

Warham Reading Room, a community building in Warham, North Norfolk, has been given a new lease of life after work to refurbish and extend the building was completed.

The Reading Room has been a strong presence in the village of Warham, Norfolk, since its opening in 1982. Its use had declined, particularly in recent years with the building requiring modernisation, but the improvements and extensions, carried out by Chamber members LSI Architects and RobSon Construction, have revived its use to secure the buildings future.

Funded by the Big Lottery Fund’s Reaching community’s programme, the restoration is sensitive to the existing

building and palette of materials, complementing the existing hall but adding a flexible, functional and modern space. The use of timber, large sliding folding doors and a minimal profile canopy, open the extension up to the grounds to the rear.

A green roof has been added, not only for its environmental benefits, but to ensure neighbouring properties have a better view, than looking out onto a more traditional roof finish.

Rachel Harmer, Architect at LSI Architects, said: “It’s fantastic to see the building in use now the work has completed, following a great deal of hard work by a number of very committed villagers.”

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

The site features resources and expert advice blogs to help candidates at every stage of their career and to support the growth of the region’s businesses. The calendar section highlights the events held throughout the year to support the growth of the talent pipeline in the region and the development of local organisations.

This includes Pure’s dedicated campaigns such as the Women’s Leadership Programme, Finance Leadership Programme and the Best Employers Eastern Region initiative.

Be part of Norfolk’s premier business network - join today norfolkchamber.co.uk

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

MARCH/APRIL 2017

MemberNews Welcome to Digital Boss.

Hello, we’re Digital Boss! A fresh, transparent and trustworthy digital agency who get a kick out of bringing your ideas to life. We create exceptional work to enable your business to stand out in today's busy digital environment, improving user engagement and increasing traffic.

Our digital business benefits mean you can spend your valuable time on bringing in more revenue.

Greater Anglia making it easier and cheaper to buy train tickets.

Norfolk Chamber Gold Patron Greater Anglia is supporting national plans to simplify train fares and make buying tickets easier, by making its own customer-focused improvements.

The Rail Delivery Group, which represents all train operators and Network Rail, announced trials of a new fares system and an action plan for companies, aimed at making ticket purchase from ticket vending machines easier and simpler.

Andy Camp, Greater Anglia Commercial Director, said: “We fully support the Rail Delivery Group’s plans. We are already well advanced in adopting

and delivering the actions announced, with some initiatives already in place and other planned as part of our new franchise.

“We are committed to offering our customers great value fares and make it as easy as possible for them to use our services.”

Greater Anglia has introduced a new fares “Price Promise”, guaranteeing the best price possible if customers book via the Greater Anglia website or app, or refunding the difference if they find the same ticket cheaper elsewhere.

We specialise in social media and website content management. Our four in house Content Managers can manage your social network pages and create relevant and engaging content for your audience - In the right tone of voice for your business.

However, we can also help Norfolk Businesses through a handful of other marketing services such as website and graphic design, powerful targeted digital campaigns and video filming and editing.

We’re more than happy to advise on your overall marketing strategy and provide you with a personal LinkedIn optimisation report too.

Digital Boss is proud to join the Norfolk Chamber because it’s quite simply the hive of activity within the Norfolk business community to network and create opportunities for one another. In a non-pushy, yet positively proactive way. @TheDigitalBoss

Norfolk salaries up 6.4pc as employers battle to keep top talent, says survey.

Is your school interested in making more links with local businesses? Join our Young Chamber membership from just £350 + VAT

Norfolk’s professionals have seen pay jump to an average of £32,970, an increase of 6.4% over the past year, according to Cooper Lomaz Recruitment’s wellrespected annual salary survey for the eastern counties.

The influential jobs barometer shows that, while the Norfolk figure remains £3,000 lower than the East of England average of £36,400, there has been a drop of 35% in the number of people who say they are willing to move location to find a new job.

It is the 12th Recruitment Trends and Salary Survey to be produced by independent Norwich and Bury St Edmunds-based recruiters Cooper Lomaz, using data gathered from thousands of respondents.

Cooper Lomaz Operations Director Mark Fletcher said: “Employers realise they must work harder than ever to attract and keep the cream of eastern counties workers.

Salary alone is no longer the be-all and end-all when it comes to remuneration.

“Recruitment remains a candidate-driven marketplace.

Benefits such as a generous pension scheme, private health and dental care, life insurance, child care

MARCH/APRIL 2017

vouchers and gym memberships are all factors that help retain and motivate staff.”

One of the more surprising revelations was that the gender pay gap between men and women in the eastern counties appears to have widened from £8,000 to £10,000.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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

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LastWord Name: David McQuade Position: Chief Executive Company: Flagship Group David McQuade has worked in social housing for 35 years starting his career in 1981 with City Housing in Glasgow.

He worked in London and Kent from 1988 before joining a Suffolk based Housing Association in 1993. He was Deputy CEO of Flagship when it started in 1998 and in 2008 became Group Chief Executive.

David leads the Operations Board to deliver the company’s strategic and business plan objectives.

42 Briefly tell us about your business?

Flagship owns and manages more than 22,000 affordable homes across East Anglia. Our purpose is to provide homes for people in need.

Our core business is to develop, manage and maintain our homes, aiming to build about 500 new properties every year. We have a number of subsidiary companies including RFT Services (repairs and maintenance), Flagship Homes (homes to let and for sale), and Gasway (gas services).

MARCH/APRIL 2017

associations, local authorities and develop a wider range of commercial services for private sector customers.

How many employees do you have?

The Group’s turnover is around £120m, and we invest more than £70m per annum in our asset management and development programmes. The company is rated A1 by Moodys, and has the highest grading from the industry regulator in Governance and Financial Viability.

We are keen to grow our service offer, working with other housing

We have around 750 staff consisting of 300 Flagship Group employees, 300 RFT staff and 150 in Gasway.

What has been your greatest success to date and why?

We have provided much needed affordable homes for rent and sale for communities in East Anglia, and, with key Local Authority and Private Sector partners, built thousands of new homes since we started in 1998.

This is vital given the significant

challenge for local people in finding suitable affordable homes.

What is the next challenge for your business and how will you achieve it?

As in other parts of the UK, East Anglia faces a huge challenge where demand for affordable homes dramatically outstrips supply.

We need to increase our efforts working with Local Authorities and other partners to help tackle this major housing crisis. We will do it by trying to continually improve our performance, and using our resources and talented staff, keep finding new and innovative ways to build more homes for local people.

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For more information about our tailored on and off the job training programmes email ncls.apprenticeships@norfolk.gov.uk or phone us 0344 800 8020 www.norfolk.gov.uk/adultlearning @NorfolkCLS Norfolk Community Learning Services

Norse – a force for good in Norfolk Norse Commercial Services is recognised as a force for economic good in Norfolk through its: · Support for the local supply chain - Norse spends nearly £35m annually

with Norfolk suppliers

·

Provision of local employment – Norse provides employment for around 5400 people, and since 2010 has created 357 apprenticeships, in the county

·

Return of revenue into Norfolk - Via dividends, rebates and service discounts, Norse has generated over £20m of income for Norfolk County Council in the last 5 years

An independent report has shown that the Norse Group supports a Gross Value Added of around £129 million in Norfolk through its services, wages, procurement of supplies and the spending power of its workforce.

That’s got to be a force for good.

For more information of Norse Commercial Services visit our website: www.ncsgrp.co.uk

t 01603 894100 e info@ncsgrp.co.uk w www.ncsgrp.co.uk