Norfolk Voice 41

voice

norfolk

Broadband and mobile improvements needed

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Jamie Thums of Lintott Control Systems Limited

Talking Technology 2017

Plus... Member News / International / Policy / Events NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

JULYAUGUST 2017

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CONTENTS

Hello!

Welcome to the latest issue of Norfolk Voice.

And welcome from me.

First of all, I’m thrilled to be the new Chief Executive of the Chamber. And, with a background in I.T. and technology I’m delighted that this, ‘my first number’ of Norfolk Voice is very much centered on digital issues.

We have some really interesting, and incredibly relevant, articles for you. Check out the ‘Big Interview’ with Jamie Thums of Lintott Control Systems on page 34 for instance. It’s very insightful and informative.

There are two important features in this issue. Our Digital Campaign Update on page 8 features input from members on the key points of broadband and mobile connectivity.

And on page 32 you’ll find a piece on our Talking Technology Event including comments from the speakers. It’s a chance to hear their thoughts on the opportunities for Norfolk’s businesses, and the emerging digital trends.

You’ll find some reports on other recent events too. See page 5 where we cover our Cyber Security Event, and our recent Norwich, King’s Lynn and Great Yarmouth Breakfasts.

And don’t miss page 61! It’s a look into a ‘week in the life of’ our Events Manager, Philippa Bindley, who is a very important member of the team.

COVER FEATURE

There is one thing I’m sure of though. Building on the excellent work of my predecessor, Caroline Williams, I’m confident that we can develop a strategy that will take the Chamber forward into whatever the future holds.

It’s a future that will embrace digital technology, but will always be driven by business.

I look forward to sharing it with you.

CHAMBER POLICY

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

MARKETING FOCUS

THE BIG INTERVIEW

CHAMBER FEATURE

MEMBER NEWS

ENERGY FOCUS

NEW MEMBERS

WEEK IN THE LIFE OF

MEMBER NEWS

BUSINESS SUPPORT

CONSTRUCTION

MEMBERSHIP

CHAMBER EVENTS

MEMBER NEWS

CHAMBER’S GOLD PATRONS

As you can imagine, I’m currently getting to know the team, and their roles within our organisation. There’s a lot to learn, and I’m relishing the opportunity to make a contribution.

Arriving in a new role is of course a time of change. I seem to have managed to arrive in a time when change is the norm. The national and international events of recent weeks and months are still difficult to take in; and they make it difficult still for any of us to make accurate predictions for business.

CHAMBER NEWS

Norfolk Voice is a Norfolk Chamber of Commerce publication.

PRODUCTION & DESIGN

jack.edwards@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2384 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ADVERTISING

Norwich Office: 9 Norwich Business Park, Whiting Road, Norwich NR4 6DJ Tel: 01603 625977

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ALL EDITORIAL AND GENERAL ENQUIRIES:

FEATURE EDITORS

Chris Sargisson CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

JULY/AUGUST 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

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The power of social media.

At the time of writing this column, it is only four days away from the next general election. Whilst the Chamber has kept neutral throughout this campaign, I always find it frustrating as a business owner that businesses themselves don’t get a vote, yet they contribute greatly to the economy and the tax revenue which effectively funds the majority of public services. Whilst virtually all businesses rely on the people they employ, it is also important to remember if there were not entrepreneurs out there who were prepared to start up and build successful businesses then many of these people would not be in employment.

There is a real danger that when people make their decision later this week at the ballot box that they will vote on the basis of headline grabbing sound bites which have been posted by all parties and their supporters on social media, rather than a well informed study of each parties manifesto. This election above all previously seems to have been significantly affected by social media and in my view not all for the good. People are circulating photos of graffiti covered political banners, protests are being held when politicians are visiting communities and businesses, and generally the overall feel of the campaign has been aggressive.

Social media should be a brilliant way for politicians to get over their policies and beliefs in an efficient and rapid way. Allowing people, where they want to,

show support for their political party, without being shouted down and often abused by those who often make the most noise on social media.

Clearly social media and the internet generally has already been shown to be an amazing tool in the promotion of business activities, allowing access to billions of potential customers worldwide, which prior to the internet would have been impossible. We are however I believe still developing the rules for engagement and may need to look at further controls and policing of content. I think that this is important if you are using social media as an intricate part of your digital marketing strategy.

This edition of the Norfolk Voice is focussing on Digital Infrastructure, in particular Broadband and Mobile Phone Connectivity. Which is essential for effective use of the internet and social media platforms. The Chamber is also holding a Talking Technology event in September which will hopefully help members understand the implications of the rapid changing digital sector, providing advice on security, storage and general developments.

Finally, I am pleased to be able to welcome our new CEO Chris Sargisson, who has now joined the Chamber and has a wealth of experience developing digital based and ecommerce businesses. Chris will be taking an active lead in pushing forward various initiatives on behalf of Chamber members in this sector.

Jonathan Cage

President, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

Seajacks helping the local supply chain.

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Over 50 members joined us for a Business Breakfast at the Great Yarmouth racecourse in April.

Members then heard from John Vingoe operations manager for Seajacks who spoke about the plans for East Anglia One the new wind farm in the East.

Bank of England provides economic insight.

Local businesses were recently invited to hear an economic update directly from the Bank of England at a meeting held at the Chamber’s office in Norwich. A range of businesses attended the event including those from the manufacturing, retail and service sectors.

Tim Pike, the Bank of England’s Agent for the South East, provided an update on the national economy and discussed what the local economic picture looked

like from the perspective of the businesses around the table.

Business confidence; investment and employee recruitment expectations; quantitative easing; and Brexit were amongst the topics raised at the meeting.

Feedback from the businesses highlighted that whilst an actual Brexit deal is still at least 2 years away, the business community intend to drive their businesses to success and invest for future growth and jobs.

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

The next Great Yarmouth breakfast is Thursday 7th September at the Royal Assembly Rooms Great Yarmouth for more information please visit: norfolkchamber.co.uk/ events

Fake News investigated.

On Tuesday 25th April over 30 Norfolk Chamber members gathered at King’s Lynn Town FC for the second West Norfolk Business Breakfast of 2017. Delegates took part in our ever popular networking activities while getting to know a range of businesses from across the region.

Mark Leslie, Editor of Lynn News gave a thought provoking talk about

the phenomenon of fake news and the impact it has had on the political landscape and public opinion and spoke about the challenges it poses to legitimate media.

Our next West Norfolk Business Breakfast will be held on 29th September. You can find more details about the event and book your place by visiting norfolkchamber.co.uk/events

JULY/AUGUST 2017

ChamberNews Caistor Hall breakfast meeting.

On Thursday 25th May over 100 Norfolk Chamber members joined us at Caistor Hall for a morning of networking with a delicious breakfast and a presentation from Charlie Gauvain, Managing Director at Eye Film.

Norfolk Chamber Cyber Security Conference helps businesses to protect themselves.

Over 100 Norfolk businesses attended the Chamber’s first Cyber Security Conference at The Space, Norwich on 18th May. The half day conference provided top tips on how businesses can improve their cyber security measures and gave an overview of the incoming General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which comes into effect in 2018 and will impact on all businesses.

doubling over the last few years.

Businesses can take some simple steps to protect themselves. One step would be to ensure that they take regular backups. On modern ransomware, restoring from a backup is one of the very few ways in which to circumvent it.”

The wide ranging ‘Ransomware’ attack that made headlines in May by hitting the NHS and spreading to more than 150 countries sparked greater interest in this already important topic and led to a number of thought-provoking discussions.

As well as Mr Maskall, other speakers included Peter Freeman, Managing Director of FreeClix; Kitty Rosser of law firm, Birketts; Andy Taylor of APMG International and Rahul Colaco of PwC.

The event host, Paul Maskall, who is Security Adviser for the Norfolk and Suffolk Cyber Crime Unit encouraged delegates to place greater value on their business’ data and ensure that they take responsibility, act proactively and implement robust security measures to protect themselves from the rising threat of data breaches.

He said: “Ransomware is not a new thing and incidents have been

Commenting on new General Data Protection Regulation, which comes into effect in May 2018, Kitty Rosser of Birketts said: “GDPR will replace our current Data Protection Laws and will bring about huge amounts of change.

Companies need to be proactive to make sure they are ready.”

The event drew a lot of attention from local media, with extensive coverage of the event provided

by Mustard TV’s Neil Perry. The conference was the main feature of that evening’s Business Extra TV programme.

The event was well received by delegates and proved to be successful in highlighting the importance of cyber security. Karen McDowall, facilities manager at financial advisory firm Smith and Pinching, said: “I wanted to come to check from an IT point of view that we had everything in hand, and we do have a lot of it in place. It has boosted my confidence in a lot of things and also shown me the areas where we need to improve.”

Charlie Gauvain took to the floor to emphasise the importance of an effective video strategy for your business. A few of the guests engaged in a practical demonstration of how best to film video testimonials.

The next Norwich breakfast is Thursday 6th July at Sprowston Manor, to book your place: norfolkchamber. co.uk/events

Former Chamber Chief Executive awarded MBE at Buckingham Palace.

Cyber security will be covered in the Talking Tech Conference that takes place on Wednesday 20th September. You can find more details about the event and book your place by visiting norfolkchamber.co.uk/events Caroline Williams, former Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce received a MBE at an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace in June.

Caroline Williams was awarded the MBE for services to the Norfolk Business Community in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List and has received her medal from HRH The Prince of Wales.

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

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

There are approximately 120 recipients at each Investiture, and recipients are each able to invite three guests to witness the ceremony.

Caroline was accompanied to the Palace by her husband Michael and sons Jason and Tom.

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

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ChamberNews

Norfolk Chamber Community Fund.

In 2016 as part of our 120th anniversary celebrations Norfolk Chamber committed to raising money to donate to a number of local charities. The three selected charities received their slice of the funds raised in December 2016: Mancroft Advice Project (MAP), Your Own Place CIC and The Bread Kitchen CIC. We recently caught up with each charity to see how the fund was helping them achieve their goals.

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Mancroft Advice Project’s aim was to support young people who are facing particular challenges in accessing employment, training and skills (also known as the Up! project). In the past 6 months 51 young people have received advice about moving into work or education, 27 of which are known to have successfully moved into education, employment or training.

Your Own Place CIC’s project looked to work with five local employers to provide ten unemployed

young people, most at risk of homelessness with supported work tasters. In the six months since receiving the funds, Your Own Place CIC have secured the backing of five employers and hope to increase this in a follow-up briefing meeting.

The Bread Kitchen CIC’s project aimed to run monthly ‘Skills Days’ for marginalised young people aged 16+. The grant has been used to run ‘Employable Me’ skills days for young people. In Spring, the group ran three sessions catering to 8 young people aged 16-26 from Great Yarmouth.

Commenting on the progress of the charities have made, Jonathan Cage, President of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce said: “We’re delighted with the progress of the projects and it’s great to see the money raised has gone to three great causes.

We hope to catch-up with the three charities again in December at the 12 month point.”

As you are aware Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, in addition to providing services for its membership, also has a key influencing role for the wider business community. To ensure our Board remains representative of the Norfolk business community as a whole, the Chamber needs to recruit several new Board Directors.

Members of the Norfolk Chamber Board are from variety of sector specific areas, therefore we are particularly interested in recruiting from the following sectors: Tourism, Logistics, Construction, Manufacturing and Health & Social Care. However, any applicants from outside these sectors would also be considered.

In addition to being a champion for your own sector, as a full member of the Board you will be responsible for supporting the operational and strategic direction of the company.

Candidate Criteria – Knowledge, Skills, Experience n A Director must be a member of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce n A Director will hold a senior position within the member business (Director or equivalent) n Preferably 2 years experience working with a Board of Directors or equivalent n Knowledge of non-profit organisations n Knowledge of strategic planning and budgeting n Knowledge and experience of the needs of SMEs n Demonstrated ability to facilitate organisational growth

Chamber members get quizzical.

On Thursday 4th May, we were joined by over 70 members for a Pub Quiz at The Oaktree, Norwich.

In teams of 6, delegates competed to be crowned Norfolk Chamber Quizmasters 2017.

n Participation at all quarterly Board meetings, including the Annual General Meeting and other meetings as required n Enthusiasm, drive and a passion for Norfolk business The deadline for applications to be received is Friday 18 August 2017 and interviews will be held on Wednesday 14 September 2017. Successful candidates will be notified of interview by the end of August. For more information on the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce visit our website: norfolkchamber.co.uk This is a voluntary/unpaid position.

If you are interested in being considered for a position on the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Board we would ask you to request a nomination form by emailing Nova Fairbank.

Email: nova.fairbank@norfolkchamber.co.uk

There were four rounds including famous places, general knowledge, celebrity and music. In the end, Mattioli Woods (pictured) were victorious, winning with an impressive 42 out of 52 points! With Richard Johnston Ltd coming in a very close 2nd with 39 points!

Take advantage of our informal networking opportunities with the next After Hours Event: Look The Business is on Thursday 17 August

Norfolk Chamber is recruiting new Board Directors.

2017 at Jarrold, Norwich for more info visit: norfolkchamber.co.uk/ events

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

JULY/AUGUST 2017

MemberNews Masterplan is approved by borough council.

Great Yarmouth Borough Council has approved a vision to enhance the town centre.

The Town Centre Masterplan illustrates how, through close partnership work, Great Yarmouth’s unique central spaces, and the links between them, can transform over the coming decade.

The six key projects are: n Strengthening the Heart of the Town Centre By 2025, the heart of the town centre – around the junction of King Street and Regent Road – has regained its vitality with a range of new occupiers and operators including a leisurebased anchor. n Improving the market and Market Place By 2025, trade and custom in the 6- & 2-day markets is greatly improved, supported by new stalls and service facilities and by the newlypaved Market Place. Together with the improved frontages this has created a beautiful setting for an expanded programme of events. n Transforming the Conge By 2025, The Conge is transformed, with new mixed-use development lining both sides of the lower half of the street, and the next phase ready for delivery connecting it to the Market Place. n Creating a sense of arrival at the town centre By 2025, the setting of Fullers Hill, Acle New Road, the roundabout, train station and quayside creates a new sense of arrival at this key junction of road, rail and water, linked to the new development on The Conge.

n Unlocking the potential of Hall Plain By 2025, the council has adopted guidance to ensure existing buildings are conserved and developed appropriately. With the 3rd river crossing near completion, there is significant commercial interest in refurbishment and new development. n Linking it all together By 2025, wayfinding is improved across the town through investment in key parts of the network of Rows and streets, with footfall significantly increased and commercial vacancies significantly reduced.

TaxAssist Accountants opens landmark 200th shop.

TaxAssist Accountants, the UK’s largest network of small business specialist accountants is celebrating the opening of its 200th Shop.

James Mattam, Group Business Development Director, said: “We’re immensely proud of Dave and all of his team for opening their third shop and helping us reach

a milestone of 200 TaxAssist Accountants shopfronts in the UK. Our brand continues to go from strength to strength and we continue to open more shops in other parts of the country. Retailing accountancy changed our business 15 years ago and we’re excited to bring more accountants on board and be a part of our future growth.”

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

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Right Angle Corporate have been going from strength to strength in 2017. A massive, 163% increase in turnover for the month of March saw the hire of Lauren Kirby.

Lauren came to the company to help support the sales team, who have been overwhelmed by the positive response to the new and exciting events they launched at the start of the year.

‘Taken’, which has received an overwhelmingly positive feedback, has really helped Right Angle to rise above other events agencies to be able to offer completely unique experiences. ‘Taken’, which has a strong focus on Leadership, sees participants bugging money, tracking police informants and rescuing their CEO or Manager within a set time frame.

Franchisee Dave Forrester’s new shop in Bingley, West Yorkshire, hit the 200th spot. Dave, who runs two other shops in Keighley and Ilkley, looks after more than 400 small businesses across the region and with his team decided to open his third shop to meet growing demand from existing small businesses and new businesses starting up in the area.

The office was officially opened by the Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Alun Griffiths, who made a short speech and performed the ribbon cutting. The opening was attended by local councillors, as well as current clients, friends, family and local businesses.

Right Angle Corporate 163% increase in turnover for March sees new hires.

Their award-winning experience, ‘The Killing’ has also been enhanced with the incorporation of a Virtual Reality aspect which will allow participants to experience a virtual crime scene using a smart phone and headset and puts Right Angle Corporate ahead of the game.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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Technology and how we use it is evolving rapidly but Norfolk’s digital and mobile infrastructure needs to keep pace. Norfolk Chamber is keen to ensure that both our digital and mobile infrastructure are fit for purpose and that our business community is ready to take advantage of new technology developments as they evolve.

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Greater mobile coverage is needed to provide better reliability. This includes erecting more mobile signal masts and creating a simplified planning process to gain the necessary permissions.

Another simple solution to improve existing coverage would be to allow mobile roaming across the existing network providers.

Nova Fairbank, Public Affairs Manager for Norfolk Chamber said: “Norfolk Chamber wants to ensure that our business community is able to take advantage of new technology developments as they evolve and one of those key areas is the rise in the mobile office and the need by more business people to do business on the move. To do this we need more investment in our mobile signal infrastructure and changes in how the service providers operate i.e. roaming signals.”

A network of providers ensures that the majority of Norfolk receives mobile signal coverage but no one provider can deliver a high percentage of overall signal coverage across the county.

At present the providers do not allow seamless roaming between their networks – so every business user, no matter which network provides their service, suffers from unreliable mobile signal coverage in Norfolk.

A recent British Chambers of Commerce survey showed that

83% of Norfolk business users experienced ‘not spots’, 43% had access to 4G, and more concerning, 11% of business users still only had access to 2G - voice calls only with no internet or data.

Neil Orford, President of Great Yarmouth Chamber Council and Partner at Lovewell Blake, said: “If we wish to be seen as a place to do business, we must continue to press for improvement in the service provided.”

Whilst approximately 86% of Norfolk has access to 24mbps, a recent British Chambers of Commerce survey, reported that the Norfolk business community still thought that Norfolk’s digital infrastructure was not yet totally fit for purpose.

could do more. More than half of businesses (54%) said that if the reliability of their broadband connection was improved it would allow them to use more applications, particularly cloudbased services (24%), transfer of large files (16%), and remote server access for employees (14%).

Paul Grenyer, CEO at Norwich-based Naked Element, said: “My issue is with mobile signals when I am out and about in the county, which I do quite a bit because I like to go to see clients. Reception is very sporadic. I use the train because I like to work but the other day I went from Yarmouth to Norwich and I only had reception for 60 per cent of the time, which means that it is dead time. It is frustrating and it needs to improve.”

Lynsey Sweales, a Norfolk Chamber Board Member and Director of Social B, said: “A reliable broadband connection is absolutely vital for all companies, yet 20% of Norfolk companies suffer from unreliable connections.

The focus of the Government must be on providing businesses with sufficient and reliable broadband connections to enable to them to do business confidently.”

The British Chambers survey showed that with more reliable connections Norfolk businesses

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

JULY/AUGUST 2017

CoverFeature

David Manning, Managing Director of MIGSOLV, which delivers The Gatehouse datacentre in Norwich, said: “Data and IT are ingrained in almost every business now, whether it’s what they deliver or simply helps them do what they do. We’ve found many of our local business customers want increased connectivity simply to save time or help them access services that make them more productive.

“Space in our data-centre is increasingly taken by local businesses. Their customers have faster connections so they want to see the businesses they buy from do more online. It’s a real opportunity for companies to stand out, regardless of size or sector.

So many Norfolk businesses trade across Europe and the world. Their customers don’t discriminate and expect faster connections as the norm. Whilst most businesses can now achieve high internet speeds, fast mobile connections are often less important than consistent coverage.”

David Robertson, owner of IT business Jader Ltd, said: “I use BT Infinity in the village that I live in (Kirby Cane). This has greatly improved my ability to work in the cloud. However, I have recently experienced ten times faster speeds in another part of the country. I think that we should not be complacent when achieving higher speeds, as to remain competitive in the technology industry we need to maintain an edge. The importance of embracing the ideas and abilities of the product of our education system is more important than virtually any other aspect of our evolution as a county within a country. The race to achieve and excel should not be restricted to the population of cities where Broadband infrastructure is strong.”

Steve Batson, Operations Director, WiSpire, said: “Some of the comments and feedback we receive at WiSpire and the latest BCC survey, confirms that there is still some way to go to deliver the connectivity businesses need to develop and grow their business.

The problem is particularly acute for isolated rural businesses and finding a viable solution will require investment from both the public and private sector. The introduction of the digital infrastructure fund and funding for full fibre networks is a good start and we would like to see the new government introduce a voucher scheme of appropriate value to help businesses resolve their connectivity problems.”

James Gulliver, Managing Director of Netmatters Ltd, said: “The way we produce and consume information has changed, the way we do business and carry out transactions has changed and so has the way we interact with individuals and businesses alike.

All these factors have resulted in more data than ever before having to negotiate its way through an already-overcrowded infrastructure and this data consumption is set to grow by a factor of 50 by 2025.

This is where superfast broadband comes in with all the commercial benefits it provides.

“It is this realisation which has put the Government and broadband providers alike centre-stage of economic debates, resulting in more investment from both parties to support a much-needed upgrade to the existing infrastructure, as businesses are becoming increasingly reliant on cloudbased technology and require more bandwidth to operate their business.”

A reliable broadband connection is absolutely vital for all companies, yet 20% of Norfolk companies suffer from unreliable connections. The focus of the Government must be on providing businesses with sufficient and reliable broadband connections to enable to them to do business confidently.

Lynsey Sweales, Director of Social B

JULY/AUGUST 2017

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Advertising

Barnham Broom welcomes...

Gina Frost

What can you offer clients in your new role?

Being a local company is a key factor in building relationships in Norwich and Norfolk. Being Norwich born and having spent the majority of my working life based in Norwich, I understand what clients need in terms of personal service and professional execution and Barnham Broom, allows me to continue with those beliefs. The customer is key and my role is to understand what they expect, interpret that and ensure that as a leadership team, we deliver on that expectation.

What brought you to Barnham Broom?

The opportunity to work for an independent, privately owned complex which has exciting plans for the future. Barnham Broom is a hidden gem and one that was beginning to come more and more onto my professional radar but I didn’t know that well myself. I visited several times before joining the leadership team and it is exciting and refreshing to realise that we are able to work with our General Manager, Janey Sheehan, to react swiftly to market changes, as we feel appropriate.

Why should people choose Barnham Broom?

The focus, over the last 12 months, has been on the quality of food in our Brasserie & Valley Bar and for our Conference & Events delivers stunning cuisine, cooked to a high standard, that simply tantalises the taste buds. I know because last week I indulged in the Rhubarb Delight lovingly prepared by Executive Chef James and it has to be seen and eaten to understand this exquisite culinary experience! Not forgetting our stunning Norfolk countryside location, with beautiful views from all areas of our 300 acres of two championship golf courses and still only 9 miles from Norwich city centre.

What's new for 2017?

More creative cuisine utilising local products for our corporate guests in the Brasserie, which is now open for lunch and extending this through to our clients for their meetings. If the venue meets the brief and the food feeds the mind, then the content delivered in those meetings is more likely to be heard and retained and an enjoyable experience is made for every presenter and delegate, everyone wins!

For more information on our exciting initiatives including our Hot off the Press - Summer Promotion, contact Gina today! t: 01603 759393 e: ginafrost@barnham-broom.co.uk

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Whether your purpose is a leisure break, a special celebration or business, you can be assured of a warm welcome at Park Farm Hotel. Despite our rural location standing in 200 acres of unspoiled Norfolk countryside, the fine city of Norwich is only a few miles away.

• Conferences Suites that can accommodate 2 to 120 • Specialist wedding venue • 53 stylish bedrooms

• Newly refurbished Seasons Restaurant • Fully equipped leisure club and spa facilities

• Afternoon tea served daily • Variety of catering options available • Ample free parking

Telephone: +44 (0)1603 810264

Email: enq@parkfarm-hotel.co.uk

web: www.parkfarm-hotel.co.uk

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

Ask the Expert: Is my business covered?

Lesley McKee, Account Executive at leading independent insurance broker Alan Boswell Group, answers your questions about business asset insurance If your insurer is unwilling to continue cover, it’s possible to buy a standalone policy for the existing structure during that time. An experienced broker can help you to find a policy that meets the needs of your business and building.

Q. How much should by business interruption insurance cover?

Lesley McKee Account Executive Q. What is business asset insurance?

A. The term refers to policies that protect your business’ property, such as buildings, equipment and stock from risks including fire, flood or theft.

Q. Will my buildings insurance cover major renovation work?

A. Not necessarily. It’s important to advise your broker before you get started. They can check that your insurer is willing to cover the existing structure during a refurbishment project. The majority tend to, but may restrict risks covered during building work.

JULY/AUGUST 2017

A. Business interruption insurance helps you maintain business continuity following an insured incident, so getting the right level of cover is crucial. Simply taking the gross profit figures from your company accounts will not necessarily provide the cover you need.

There are several different approaches to business interruption insurance, but the most common is loss of gross profit. Bear in mind that the insurance industry definition of a ‘gross profit’ is different from the one your accountant would use. Insurers tend to define gross profit as follows: turnover less uninsured working expenses and bad debts, adjusted for the difference between stock and work in progress between the start and end of the financial year.

Thankfully your insurance broker should be able to walk you through this calculation and explain how to apply it to your business!

When calculating business interruption sums insured, consideration should also be given to the amount of time covered by the policy – also known as the indemnity period. In most circumstances, a minimum indemnity period of 24 months should be sufficient to take into account site clearance, design and planning applications, rebuild time, replacement of plant and machinery, sourcing stock and rebuilding the customer and supplier base.

Q. Can I buy insurance to protect my business in the event of a cyber-attack?

A. Most definitely. Cyber liability is big news right now and several insurance companies have policies that offer a variety of cover. While it cannot prevent an attack, it can limit the level of damage caused. Cover can include: n Breach costs: covering legal advice, notifying customers and supporting affected customers.

n Crisis containment: covering the services of a PR company to manage your reputation. n Hacker damage: recovering the cost of repair, restoration or replacement if hackers damage your systems. n Cyber extortion: covering the services of a risk management company and ransom costs. n Cyber business interruption: covering loss of income if you cannot continue to trade.

An insurance broker can help you to tailor a policy to your particular needs, so your business is covered for the online risks it faces.

Business insurance from the experts.

Alan Boswell Group is a leading, local independent insurance broker based in Norfolk.

Visit alanboswell.com or call us on 01603 218000 to find out more.

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Norfolk Chamber outlines its key priorities for newly elected government.

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Norfolk Chamber is looking to the new Government to deliver a bold and clear strategy to support economic growth across Norfolk and all regions of the UK. Action is needed on a range of domestic fronts, including improving the competitiveness of the Norfolk business environment, upgrading physical and digital infrastructure across the county, and supporting local growth.

The Norfolk Chamber business community will judge the newly elected Government against five key criteria: n Infrastructure – revolutionise Norfolk’s physical and digital infrastructure. Ensure that the whole of Norfolk has access to super-fast broadband, better mobile connectivity, and delivering investments in the strategic schemes such as the A47 improvements, the Western Link of the NDR and the Great Yarmouth Third River Crossing, all of which will unlock the economic potential of the region. n Business Environment – deliver a globally competitive business environment. Ensure the best business environment possible with a relentless drive to improve the skills set of tomorrow’s workforce, without clobbering firms with ever-higher upfront costs. n Local Growth – unlock the potential of the local business community and maintain the place-based focus of the Industrial Strategy to ensure Norfolk’s key sectors can thrive and grow.

n Trade – support Norfolk exporters to drive economic growth. Expand trade support programmes, secure continued access to existing Free Trade Agreements, develop trade policy with business, and leverage Chambers of Commerce, which are best placed to provide stable export support in all regions of the UK. n Brexit – work with businesses to secure the best possible deal with the EU. Protect the status of EU nationals in the UK, develop future customs procedures in partnership with business, create a future UK immigration system that is responsive to economic needs and skills shortages at all levels, and ensure that there is no hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Jonathan Cage, President of Norfolk Chamber said: “While businesses all across Norfolk want a good Brexit deal, they are very clear that decisions taken here at home matter as much – if not more – to our future growth prospects. The best possible Brexit deal won’t be worth the paper it’s written on if

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

firms cannot recruit and train the right people, get decent digital connectivity, or get their goods to their market.

“The Norfolk business community wants a clear commitment from the Government to create the best possible conditions for growth.

Westminster must stop and reverse the relentless increases in the up-front cost of doing business in Britain, and give local businesses the confidence to drive investment, job growth and exports through the Brexit transition and beyond.”

“We will look to our newly elected Norfolk MPs to once again work in partnership with each other and ensure that the Norfolk business voice is clearly heard in Westminster.”

Norfolk’s elected MPs are: Broadland

Keith Simpson MP

Conservative

Great Yarmouth

Brandon Lewis MP

Conservative

Mid Norfolk

George Freeman MP

Conservative

North Norfolk

Norman Lamb MP

Liberal Democrats

North West Norfolk

Sir Henry Bellingham MP

Conservative

Norwich North

Chloe Smith MP

Conservative

Norwich South

Clive Lewis MP

Labour

South Norfolk

Richard Bacon MP

Conservative

South West Norfolk

Elizabeth Truss MP

Conservative

JULY/AUGUST 2017

ChamberPolicy

The voice of business is clearly heard at Chamber Roundtables.

Norfolk Chamber has been talking to businesses about their future plans and to better understand what factors are holding back their potential business growth. The Roundtables were free to attend and held in Great Yarmouth and King’s Lynn. Businesses have a final chance to have their say at the last Roundtable which will be held in Norwich on Tuesday 11 July 2017.

So far over 40 businesses, of differing sizes and from a diverse range of sectors attended the Roundtables to help pull together evidence for the updated New Anglia LEP Economic Strategy. Among the common themes in both areas were calls for better road and rail links, such as a fully dualled A47, and faster broadband. They also identified the need for parallel investment to be made in public transport to ensure sustainability of improved infrastructure.

Commenting on the need for strong business input, Norfolk Chamber President, Jonathan Cage said: “Previous infrastructure campaigns, such as the dualling of the A11 in Norfolk, were won by making clear the benefits to business. We can do a lot with joined-up marketing – that is in our power – however it is harder for us to say we are going to dual the A47. That’s where we need businesses to explain the difference it would make to them.”

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Also highlighted as key priorities were improved skills and raising the aspirations of young people.

The forging of stronger links between schools and employers and engagement with students of a younger age were also raised.

The new Economic Strategy will lay out the direction for the Norfolk and Suffolk economies through to 2036, highlighting where key strengths can be supported and where improvements are necessary.

The finalised document is due for publication by New Anglia LEP in Autumn 2017.

Another strong theme, that came from both Roundtables, was the need for a communication/PR strategy to ‘tell the story’ of Norfolk and Suffolk – to not only say, what a great place to live and work the two counties are, but to promote our strengths and show what opportunities are available.

Ensure your voice is heard – book your free place now at the Norwich Roundtable Park Farm Hotel, Hethersett

“Previous infrastructure campaigns, such as the dualling of the A11 in Norfolk, were won by making clear the benefits to business. We can do a lot with joined-up marketing – that is in our power – however it is harder for us to say we are going to dual the A47. That’s where we need businesses to explain the difference it would make to them.”

Tuesday 11 July 2017 3pm – 5pm

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

Jonathan Cage, Norfolk Chamber President

JULY/AUGUST 2017

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

Advertising

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DIY or Hire an Expert?

For any job out there, you always have two options: do it yourself or hire an expert.

Sometimes, the task at hand is so easy or takes so little time, that you just don’t think to hire an expert— making a cup of tea on a morning, for example. But other days, you’re running late or forgot to buy milk, so you nip into the nearest coffee shop and ask an expert to do it for you.

Other tasks, of course, are complicated or time consuming enough that your first thought is to hire someone else to do it. Maybe you need to replace the glass in your windscreen or want to add a patio to your garden. Either way, you’re probably going to hire (or at least consult) an expert.

The reason is two-fold: 1) the time, 2) the learning curve.

If something is complicated, you need to factor in the amount of time, energy, and expense it will take you to learn enough to be able to do it yourself.

Similarly, if a job is fairly involved, it will like take up a fair amount of your time, which you’re going to have to pay for anyway—either in time off work or in your leisure time.

Another reason, of course, is the experience and expertise an expert brings to the task. They will not

only have the tools and knowledge to do it, but they’ve done it enough times that the quality of the finished product will be higher and they’re less likely to make costly mistakes.

So we hire experts to do these complicated and involved jobs.

Because you have to pay a price whether you do it or they do…and they’ll be faster and make fewer mistakes.

Let’s go back to the idea of putting in a new patio.

If you do it yourself, you’ve got to buy all the tools and supplies, watch some YouTube videos, read a few articles, and then spend a whole weekend actually doing it.

The finished product looks great, but there are a few bits you had to re-do after finding the best technique.

Alternatively, if you hire some experts to do it, the outlay cost is probably higher, but they bring all the tools and supplies, as well as the experience of having installed about 10 patios over the last year.

The big day comes and you get to spend the weekend out and about, returning just in time to see a finished patio looking great.

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

There are pros and cons to both.

When you DIY, you learn a lot about the process, maybe even enough to do it again down the road or fix any little errors that crop up over the coming years. When you pay for an expert, you may not learn as much, but the finished product is more stable and less likely to have any issues in the future.

and leave the configuration to our experts.

When it comes to the customisation of our customers’ OpenCRM system, we tend to have three types of projects.

It comes back to that idea of DIY vs expert—there’s a cost either way and it should always be your decision about which you prefer to pay.

Type 1s want to go it alone, setting up the system, organising the implementation, and getting everyone trained up on it. They will rely on our knowledgebase and asking questions of our support team.

Type 2s will do much of the customisation themselves, but will do so after paying for a few training sessions and a couple hand-holding sessions to get them feeling confident enough to do so.

Type 3s on the other hand, choose to pay us to customise their system and train their staff. They may want to know how the customisation was done, but really they just want to get on with their normal day job

All three types end up with a finished product that works for their business and have a similar success rate. They’ve all had to pay some cost, whether it is their own time, our project management rates, or a combination of both.

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

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

JULY/AUGUST 2017

BusinessSupport Larking Gowen Tourism Business Survey Results February marked the 75th anniversary of American troops arriving in Britain during World War II with more than 100,000 US airman based mainly in East Anglia.

Local Destination Marketing Organisations are using this anniversary to attract US visitors and gain local interest.

to £7.50 per hour as happening too quickly. The National Minimum Wage also impacts negatively on 39% of businesses.

Larking Gowen recently held its 2017 Tourism Survey seminars in Norfolk and Suffolk, and here’s a snapshot of the findings.

Chris Scargill, tourism partner at Chris Scargill Tourism Partner Larking Gowen, said, “The tourism and Larking Gowen leisure world is inundated with challenges - local issues and worldwide politics affect customers and their behaviour patterns. Businesses must stay open-minded to the opportunities that may present themselves.”

Unsurprisingly, weather is a key worry for 33% of businesses surveyed. Although this is a factor that we can’t influence, last year East Anglia enjoyed more hours of sunshine than any other region.

It’s pleasing that 68% of businesses increased turnover in 2016, with three quarters expecting this trend to continue.

Noteworthy is that 56% converted the increase into improved profitability.

Last year the National Living Wage was introduced. 40% of businesses felt a negative impact and saw the increase

As well as facts and statistics, our 2017 survey contains a number of stories relating to local businesses which you are sure to find interesting. You can access the full survey at www.tourismsurveys.co.uk or email Chris at chris.scargill@larking-gowen.co.uk if you’d like a hard copy.

For further details on any tax or accountancy matter please contact Chris on 01263 712017 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 on 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.

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FLEXIBLE & COMPETITIVE BUSINESS SPACES

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Convenient location • Meeting facilities for 2 to 200 • Free internet, Comfortable restaurants • Spacious well equipped bedrooms Leisure club • Our own traditional pub • Ample free parking

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

Flexibility, strong listening skills and a willingness to learn are essential traits for success in an increasingly unpredictable world.

Businesses need to stay relevant and sustainable, as customers look more and more for high quality, socially ethical services.

Corporate social responsibility doesn’t need to cost financially but can add a real competitive advantage to your business.

The skills and knowledge you have picked up in your career could significantly contribute to a charity’s services and growth, making a tangible difference for people in need of support.

Charities look for: n business development expertise n mentors for staff and managers n time and advice on IT or legal issues n trustees and ambassadors NANSA is a progressive disability charity that is interested in working with professionals and businesses to make Norfolk a better place – if you’re interested to know how you can change lives easily, contact their CEO (Ros Czarnowska) rosczarnowska@nansa.org.uk or call 01603 627662.

JULY/AUGUST 2017

BusinessSupport

Corporate Social Responsibility.

It’s generally understood that business behaviours have direct and indirect impacts on the societies in which they operate, but do businesses view taking a proactive approach to managing these behaviours as a means to success?

Many studies carried out over the years demonstrate the benefits of incorporating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) into a strategic business plan. This is especially true now, where social media can be utilised to not only promote your CSR activities, but engage with your audience in a 2-way conversation.

Increased sales, enhanced stakeholder loyalty and attracting better personnel can all be linked to effective CSR. For some businesses CSR may mean engaging in business supported charity programmes or supporting staff in their own fundraising initiatives. For others it may involve environmental efforts or ethical trade agreements.

For us at Hugh J Boswell, it’s about supporting the businesses, ‘not for profit’ organisations and people in our community. Over the last 5 years we have raised over £50,000 for local charities and supported many other organisations with nonfinancial assistance, including apprenticeship programmes, involvement with the local Chambers and volunteering within schools and colleges.

At Hugh J Boswell we feel that supporting our local community benefits our entire business and would recommend adopting a CSR programme to any other business.

You can keep up to date with our latest initiatives by visiting our various social media pages or at www.hughjboswell.co.uk. If you would like to get involved with one of them, please feel free to get in touch.

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A chartered insurance broker with values

Independence • Trust • Customer Commitment Professionalism • Innovation

0576 Chamber Ad 2016 V0_2.indd 1 JULY/AUGUST 2017

08/12/2016 17:55 NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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.

O

C LK O RF

NO

To find out more visit:

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

HAMBER MEMBER

S

R

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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.

N

Training Courses

RFO

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ME

E MB

InternationalTrade

Translation Service.

Research has shown that language differences are a significant barrier to International Trade but with the Norfolk Chamber Translation and Interpreter Service, they don’t need to be.

SocialB finding new markets.

We talk with Lynsey Sweales, CEO, and Digital Marketing Strategist, at SocialB. An international award-winning team of digital marketing experts SocialB have been delivering outstanding results since 2008.

They operate across a wide spectrum of industry sectors, with clients ranging in size from small niche businesses to public sector organisations to global brands.

With over 17 years digital marketing experience herself, Lynsey says that the company’s philosophy is simple; ‘to provide a service that generates profitable sales and leads for our customers using a plain English approach’.

Have you encountered any specific problems in exporting?

It’s not easy! You can’t simply walk in to a country or market and make it happen. Commercial and cultural practices vary and having local knowledge is important. It’s why an Embassy, Chamber of Commerce and the Department of International Trade, is so important. But you have to do the groundwork and it’s not often straightforward.

Any specific advice for the world be exporter?

In our experience it would have to be - get it right at home first and the export demand should follow.

So, Lynsey, was it always in the plan to take SocialB into the export arena?

It certainly seems to have worked for SocialB. Can you give us a flavour of your export business?

In fact, no. We started with the domestic, UK, market in mind. Demand from overseas evolved.

It’s multi faceted. It’s definitely truly global, as we work with countries all over the world. We sell our digital marketing services overseas, and we also go abroad to deliver training. That said, we have clients who fly in to the uk for us to train them here, which of course is ‘exporting’ in real terms.

What was driving that?

Obviously, our own levels of service, but the UK is held in high regard as a ‘digital’ and ‘high tech’ nation. The UK’s digital reputation has definitely helped us I believe.

What do you think overseas customers look for most in buying digital and tech services from UK companies like SocialB? I think the key words are credibility, standards and qualifications. The UK’s standing in the sector is well regarded but the training and qualifications here are hugely respected.

What are your thoughts for the future?

They’re very simple and practical. You have to be agile, lean and you have to stay on top of your business. If your finger isn’t on the pulse it could drift in the wrong direction very quickly. You have to work at ‘future proofing’ your business. But these points in my view are good business sense and practice that should be practiced whether you are exporting or not.

Thanks Lynsey.

Our translation service can help you communicate effectively with your overseas clients in their native languages to help your business flourish. Whatever your translation needs, from introductory letters through to product manuals, we can meet your requirements and take a load off your mind.

Our translators are highly qualified linguists, translating into their mother tongue and are specialised in different sectors or disciplines such as automotive, aerospace, information technology, legal, software or medical technology.

Testimonial

“The Norfolk Chamber provide an excellent service and are always happy to go the extra mile to ensure the accuracy of the translations we receive.”

For more information on this service, please telephone 01603 729712 or e-mail export@ norfolkchamber.co.uk

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

A pleasure….

JULY/AUGUST 2017

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

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Advertising

Norfolk businesses ask ‘What Is Most effective B2B Marketing?’

Business-to-business marketing experts Full Mix Marketing have been working with an increasing number of Chamber Members and local companies keen to find the most effective marketing to reach other businesses.

“Many of our clients have grown naturally” says Sarah West, Managing Director of Full Mix Marketing. “They’re now looking for marketing to actively boost them to the next level”.

The Norfolk based agency has had a busy start to 2017, beginning relationships with businesses in IT, energy, manufacturing, engineering and professional services. They’ve been asked to evaluate current marketing, create effective strategies and deliver all the digital & traditional marketing businesses need to grow.

“Many design-led agencies favour business-to-consumer marketing” adds Sarah. “Whilst much is the same, businesses do shop differently. We’re interested

in results, so we work hard to understand our client’s customers, choose the most cost-effective marketing and communicate the right messages.”

Asked to identify the most effective marketing for B2B, Sarah replies “Digital marketing is always important as business customers usually view a company’s website before buying. However, social media and online advertising only make sense if customers are actively looking online. PR and direct marketing to key decision makers can bring the biggest and quickest results”.

Asked for her top tip, Sarah concludes “B2B marketing is all about return-on-investment. Badly targeted marketing is expensive.

Always ensure you choose the best method to reach your customers and tell them what’s in your product or service for them!”

Details of all the services Full Mix Marketing provide can be found at www.fullmixmarketing.co.uk

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

MarketingFocus Bringing the newest and most engaging premium advertising to Norfolk SME businesses.

With a passion for all things Norfolk, and with 15 years experience in sales and the electrical industry, BBA Digital Media was founded in 2015 to bring state of the art digital screens to Norfolk and make Out-Of- Home advertising effective and affordable for local companies.

Our big, bold, and beautiful HD digital screens are placed in exciting high footfall locations around the city of Norwich, showing hundreds of thousands of potential customers the exceptional products and services our county has to offer.

If your company is looking to increase brand awareness, promote a specific new product, service, or event, in a new and exciting way that offers exceptional ROI, give the team a call. We promise genuine passion, ensuring that your advertising needs come first. We want you to get the best result possible, so we give business sector exclusivity for the length of your campaign.

Digital-Out-Of-Home advertising screens enable your adverts to come to life! Working in real time, we can change your message at a drop of a hat, run several different adverts

during the same campaign period, and tailor your message for specific times of day. Your ad space works for you: promising an engaging, exciting, full colour motion message that reaches 750,000 plus new potential customers every week.

With a limited number of campaigns shown on each screen, and packages that run from one day up to an entire year, we make sure you can target the specific market that works best for your marketing aims.

Our screens are non intrusive, environmentally friendly, and exciting for the viewer, making the most of the time we all spend out and about everyday.

If you're ready to try out Digital-OutOf-Home, give one of our team a call and enjoy an exciting, supportive and collaborative advertising experience.

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23/06/2017 11:29 NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Advertising

Big changes ahead for personal data.

On the 25th May 2018 the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) takes effect. This law has already made headlines thanks to the draconian new enforcement powers it introduces with regulatory fines of up to €20 million applicable in the event of breach. ensure that they have appropriate compliance measures in place.

Necessary measures may include undertaking data audits and risk assessments, updating IT systems, implementing new policies and procedures, reviewing and updating contracts and rolling out training to staff.

Thanks to a string of high profile data breaches and the resulting media scrutiny, the reputational risks for organisations that fail to comply have never been higher.

This in turn has driven consumer awareness with far more people now informed of their rights under data protection laws.

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Despite initial confusion following the Brexit vote, it has now been confirmed that this law will take effect in the UK next year. In the longer term, the UK is expected to adopt equivalent measures into

national law at the point of exit from the EU. There is a significant amount of work to be done by organisations over the course of the next year to

The GDPR both enhances individuals’ existing rights and introduces brand new rights. In particular, the GDPR clarifies that an individual can claim compensation for distress if their personal data is mishandled. In cases of cyber-attack or failure to

comply with relevant marketing rules, the number of potential claims an organisation can face can easily run into the thousands.

Birketts has done a huge amount of work over the last year to raise awareness of the upcoming changes including offering free compliance guides and training sessions and welcomes enquiries from organisation seeking guidance.

Kitty Rosser Associate, Birketts LLP 01603 756559 kitty-rosser@birketts.co.uk

The GDPR: Getting to Grips with the New Law Birketts’ in-house GDPR training will ensure you’re fully up-to-date with the new legislation and know what your organisation will need to do to comply.

This practical session can be hosted at your own premises or at our offices in Norwich, Ipswich, Cambridge and Chelmsford.

For a quote and to discuss your specific requirements contact Kitty Rosser on 01603 756559 or kitty-rosser@birketts.co.uk Birketts_Norfolk Voice Magazine_186x126mm.indd 1 NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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19/06/2017 13:13 JULY/AUGUST 2017

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MemberNews

Full Mix Marketing chosen to help Chamber Gold Patron grow.

B2B marketing experts and Chamber members Full Mix Marketing have been chosen by Norfolk Chamber Gold Patrons MIGSOLV to help them gain more customers in the East of England.

Easylifeit Appoints James Allison as Strategic IT Consultant.

Full Mix Marketing were asked to pitch against four other agencies to secure the long-term relationship marketing for Norfolk and Suffolk’s only purposebuilt data centre.

EasylifeIT has announced the appointment of James Allison in the role of Strategic IT Consultant.

James joins from business consultancy firm WLP where he was Director and Practice Principal.

Prior to this James spent 15 years with market leading book production specialist Clays Ltd, including 4 years as its Commercial Director.

The Gatehouse in Norwich secures computer servers and data for national and international companies.

Sarah West, Managing Director of Full Mix Marketing, said: “It’s been a fantastic and diverse start to 2017. We’ve begun relationships with businesses in manufacturing, energy, recruitment, IT and engineering. What they all have in common is the desire to identify and deliver the right marketing for the best results.”

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David Manning, Managing Director of MIGSOLV, said: “Sarah and her team simply gave us the confidence they could deliver the results we need. They showed that more than just having a new website or advertising, it’s about understanding our potential customers and finding the best ways to reach them.”

Gold Patrons of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce since 2016, MIGSOLV discovered Full Mix Marketing through the Chamber Directory.

Based out of EasylifeIT‘s Norwich office, but working with clients across the UK, James’ principal focus will be on advising customers who do not need a full-time senior IT specialist, but could definitely benefit from some structured, strategic guidance periodically.

Sarah said: “Being members of Norfolk Chamber has been very positive for us. It regularly generates opportunities and is often a strong part of the marketing mix we recommend our B2B clients.”

Blind company introduces new packages.

With improving rail and road links in Norfolk, plus the many proposed developments, such as the proposed expansion of the University and Norwich Research Park, there are likely to be a lot of new people moving to the area.

This has led to a large number of new homes being built. Norwich Sunblinds noticed that people often plan all their finance around buying their new home but forget to budget for essentials, such as window dressings.

“We decided to create packages so that customers could have fitted blinds in their new home at a set price,” said Fiona Garwood, a director of Norwich Sunblinds.

The packages are available for various sizes of flats and houses, based on the number of windows and type of property.

Made to measure roller blinds from Norwich Sunblinds

There are also executive packages available which include real-wood shutters and roman blinds. Of course, the house doesn’t have to be new-build. The packages are available to anyone who is moving home and needs new blinds, curtains or shutters for all their windows.

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

James has a proven track record of helping business leaders and IT professionals to work in harmony and talk a common language.

Coming from a non-technical background, he has a passion for demystifying the often bewildering world of IT. Managing Director Lindsey Hall said: “I am delighted James has chosen to join us. James is an experienced and versatile business professional with an excellent reputation.”

James said: “Having previously been a customer of EasylifeIT, I had first hand experience of the way they work. I saw for myself how they put the client at the heart of everything they do. I am excited to be part of a growing and successful business that does things in the right way and shares my values.”

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

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Advertising

World Intellectual Property News Update: Amazon parachute delivery patent granted… Beyoncé faces challenge over ‘Blue Ivy’ Trade Mark… Diageo continues to enforce the design and branding Rights of its Bulleit Whiskey…Tiffany caught up in Copyright infringement claim (again!)… USPTO Director Michelle Lee resigns Amazon parachute delivery patent granted Tech giant Amazon has recently been granted a patent that could get the online retailer one step closer to automatically delivering packages and post via drones or larger unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The patent, originally filed in 2015, describes a system that works by placing a parachute inside the label of a package, allowing the package to be dropped by a UAV and land safely at its destination without damage.

Possible developments of the technology are also mentioned including installing shock absorbers and guidance controls into the parachute system for greater security and accuracy. Such a system would no doubt require significant testing and refinement, and may not yet be economically viable, but could well be the start of a new generation of delivery technology.

Beyoncé faces challenge over ‘Blue Ivy’ Trade Mark Beyoncé and Jay-Z have yet again been halted in their attempts to Trade Mark their daughter’s name Blue Ivy by the Blue Ivy Corporation, an LA-based events management company that has been in business since 2009. Beyoncé had originally filed for the Trade Mark ‘Blue Ivy’ back in 2012 shortly after her daughter was born but was eventually denied when the court sided with the events company.

Earlier this year Beyoncé tried again, this time applying to register ‘Blue Ivy Carter’ as a Trade Mark, hoping that the added distinctiveness of including her daughter’s surname would ease the path to registration. Yet again, the Blue Ivy Corporation has objected stating that the singer is simply registering the name to prevent others from using it (something Jay-Z has admitted publically), and that they do not have a genuine intent to use the name to sell the products that the application lists. These include fragrances, cosmetics, key chains, DVDs, bags,

JULY/AUGUST 2017

books and even playing cards and video games amongst others. It is not yet clear who will win the second round of this particular battle.

Diageo continues to enforce the design and branding Rights of its Bulleit Whiskey Drinks consortium Diageo has sued Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, claiming that its Redemption brand of whiskey was deliberately re-designed to closely mimic the appearance of Diageo’s extremely popular Bulleit brand. Diageo claim that both the new bottle design and the brand positioning of the new Redemption whiskey was a deliberate and wilful attempt to infringe Diageo’s Rights and trade on Bulleit’s vast goodwill.

Diageo is seeking destruction of the infringing products, profits, damages, and legal fees. Earlier in the year Diageo had also claimed that competitor Sazerac had also infringed its Bulleit brand, eventually agreeing an out of court settlement.

Tiffany caught up in Copyright infringement claim (again!)

Jewellery company Tiffany & Co has been accused of copyright infringement by photographer Peter Gould. Gould claims Tiffany unlawfully used a photo taken by him of designer Elsa Peretti in a promotional video and ‘intentionally and knowingly’ removed copyright information identifying him as the photographer.

This follows on from another case Gould filed against Tiffany back in February for unlawfully using photos of Peretti he had taken to sell Peretti jewellery.

USPTO Director Michelle Lee resigns Michelle Lee, the Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, officially resigned on Tuesday 6th June after two years in post.

Lee, the former deputy general

counsel at Google, did not disclose a reason for her decision or her future plans.

It was initially believed that Lee that would continue as Director throughout the Trump administration after more than 50 organisations, including Facebook, Amazon and Google signed a letter to Trump backing Lee’s continued leadership. Lee was described as an effective and fair leader who made the patent office run smoothly and instigated valuable changes during her time. A replacement has not yet been named.

For any aspect of Intellectual Property advice and overall strategy, please get in touch with the ip21 team.

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

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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

ConstructionFocus

Advertising

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How could Brexit affect the movement of labour in the UKs construction industry?

The health of a countries construction industry is arguably the clearest barometer to the buoyancy of its economy. Despite a year of economic uncertainty, political change and fears of a recession, the Office for National Statistics full-year data for 2016 shows the industry output grew last year, reaching £136.38bn.

Investment in large infrastructure can only be positive for the country but uncertainty with the lack of labour and increasing material costs is affecting confidence in the industry.

The construction industry accounts for over 3 million jobs in the UK, this is 10% of total UK employment, these figures suggest how greatly dependent the country is on the strength of our sector. The average pay that blue collar construction personnel has increased by 6- 8%

over the last 12 months this will set to rise to 20% if post Brexit.

The impending issue that the UK face’s post- Brexit is the deficit in the workforce to complete major projects. For the last 30 years + the construction industry has relied on foreign workers, putting boundaries in place to stop the free movement of labour between the UK and the EU member states could mean that we are losing these workers, causing a shortfall in supply of skilled and non-skilled

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

construction operatives, this would have a major effect on the delivery and the cost of these projects & ultimately on the countries economic growth.

In order to combat the shortfall in construction labour and the clear neglect towards training & development, it is vital that the government takes a proactive approach and insists that larger contractors are investing in their own apprenticeship programmes and training whilst SME’s are

incentivised to employ young local people.

At a time where EU sourced labour could rapidly diminish, intensified by an ageing and under-skilled workforce, something needs to change. In my opinion, the skills gap can be closed by investment into vocational courses and a campaign to raise awareness to invite ‘homegrown’ young people into an industry that has fantastic opportunity.

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Anglian Architectural

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Anglian Architectural Ltd www.angarch.com Unit 1, Mill Lane, Waterford Industrial Estate, Gt. Massingham, Norfolk PE32 2HT Tel: 01485 520860 Sales Fax: 01485 521196 Email: sales@angarch.com

ConstructionFocus

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Drone Photography technology is now providing high quality imagery to the construction industry. Building companies, surveyors, architects, and planners can employ this technology to support CGI’s and 3D modelling, infrastructure and construction planning submissions, roof inspections, site monitoring and up to date aerial mapping.

We maintain a range of stabilised, GPS equipped DJI drones that are capable of collecting up to 16mp still photography and 4K HD video data. Operating across East Anglia, specialising in: Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex.

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Norfolk’s One Stop Shop for Building, Timber, Plumbing, Kitchens, Bathrooms & Landscaping supplies

With over 30 years proven experience gained working for large organisations and high profile Clients providing the full range of quantity surveying services to Private Clients, Developers, Contractors and Sub-Contractors on projects ranging from £50,000 to £160 million, MHQS set up as a small business in 2015 to offer a highly professional service for a fraction of the price charged by large companies.

MHQS prides itself in a high quality of customer service, clear and concise documents and exceptional value for money giving added value to the Client.

Our services include: Feasibility estimates Elemental cost plans, cost checking and value engineering Schedule of works and bills of quantities Contract and procurement advice Measuring and pricing tender documents Tender analysis, negotiation and reporting

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

Contract document preparation and execution Programming Cash flow forecasts Valuations, cost monitoring and reporting, value engineering Final accounts Preparation and evaluation of contractual claims

We can provide the above and other services mainly for the residential, commercial, retail and education sectors of the construction industry. contact us today for a free quotation.

Martyn Howe Quantity Surveyors Limited Chartered Quantity Surveyor Tel: 01485 535209 Mob: 07841 373738

Email: martynh1960@gmail.com

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Increase the skills of your workforce with your local ‘outstanding’ training provider CWA offers a wide range of construction apprenticeships including brickwork, carpentry and joinery, electrical installation, painting and decorating, plumbing and property maintenance

“Encouraging talented people into our business and helping them build careers is absolutely

essential to the continuing success both of our

company and the wider industry. Our links with CWA are vital, both in helping us to tap into local young talent, as well as continuing their

development and education. We currently have four of our young employees studying at the college and hope to continue to build on the successes of our relationship”

Michael Saunders Construction Manager, Lovell

ConstructionFocus

Advertising

Brown&Co Architecture+Planning.

The Architecture+ Planning Team at Brown&Co has seen significant development and change in its relatively recent history.

Having rebranded following the purchase of Owen Bond Partnership, the Division has grown over the last three years, particularly in the last 9 months. The team of 14 staff has a mix of Architectural, Planning and Masterplanning professionals along with a talented support team. We service a wide range of projects – which has been a key feature in the growth of the business.

We cover all industry sectors across East Anglia but predominately operate within the residential, strategic development and education sectors. These are rural and urban projects that cover private and institutional clients.

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We consider there to be a wide range of factors contributing to this positive period in construction. Despite the

uncertain political climate, the cost of borrowing money remains relatively low, which provides an incentive for those funding projects through borrowing. More homeowners are looking to extend existing properties rather than move house, which is providing many opportunities, especially with a successful in-house auctions team.

The Call for Sites process is in full swing and Local Councils

BROWN&CO ARCHITECTURE+PLANNING

Award winning, dynamic chartered practice, with a broad project portfolio - providing creative solutions to your projects.

Architecture and planning half page advert.indd 2 NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

are forming their initial draft documents. The pressure politically and socially for greater housing provision is driving the development market which may result in planning applications, development opportunities and increased construction. We expect that the next 12-24 months will be spent servicing clients whose projects or sites are allocated. Equally, it is critical to take advantage of opportunities where

they arise, which is where we see ourselves being able to add greater value to clients.

The business in Norwich has a strong architectural history and pedigree; our aspiration is to make Brown&Co Architecture+Planning a household name in the region.

Speak to Fraser Hall, Divisional Partner at Brown&Co on 01603 629871.

For further information contact: Fraser Hall: T 01603 629871 E fraser.hall@brown-co.com

21/06/2017 11:56 JULY/AUGUST 2017

MemberNews

Finn Geotherm becomes Carbon Trust accredited.

Norfolk ground and air source heat pump installer Finn Geotherm, has become Carbon Trust accredited. Under the scheme, installations carried out by Finn Geotherm for small and medium sized businesses may be eligible for funding by the Trust of up to £10,000.

The Carbon Trust's mission is to accelerate the move to a sustainable, low carbon economy. Its Accredited Supplier scheme is the UK’s marketleading initiative for high quality energy efficient equipment and renewable technology suppliers, providing independent validation and recognition of a supplier's skills and services.

Accredited suppliers must meet or exceed criteria set by the Carbon Trust, which is designed to examine their capability to deliver thoughtful, welldesigned energy efficient and renewable energy systems.

Finn Geotherm is one of only a limited number of UK heat pump companies accredited by the scheme.

Guy Ransom, commercial director at Finn Geotherm, said: “We are very pleased to have achieved Carbon

Trust accreditation. The accreditation not only recognises our expertise in ground and air source heat pumps, but it also gives us the opportunity to further help small and medium sized businesses who are considering installing renewable energy systems and may benefit from the Carbon Trust Green Business Fund.”

More than 60 business people from across the Eastern region attended Pure’s second Women’s Leadership Alumni event to continue discussions on progressing gender equality in organisations of all sizes and sectors.

The Women’s Leadership Programme was first developed in 2014 by professional recruitment specialists Pure, in conjunction with strategic HR consultancy People & Performance. It has already helped more than 65 aspiring female leaders in the Eastern region to strengthen their leadership skills, develop their confidence and to work with their employers to remove any barriers to progression.

Guest speakers at the event included Dr Andy Wood, Chief Executive at Adnams, who described how the renowned regional brewing business keeps its people and values at the heart of the organisation through their inclusive culture. Despite a backdrop of significant competition and a declining market, Adnams has continued to grow and evolve and Dr. Wood still

After creating ITV Anglia weather bumpers for TrustATrader last year JMS were happy to be given the opportunity to pitch for their new national sponsorship bumpers for ITV1’s Bigheads, but it was a last minute job.

The Trader Olympics’ is made up of a series of eight short and colourful bumpers showing tradesmen competing with each other for the title of champion trader.

Women’s Leadership Alumni Event May 2017 considers the business to be ‘a 145-year-old start-up’ with the same level of focus still placed on the people and culture behind the business as when it was first founded in 1872.

David Britain, a strategic HR Consultant also led a workshop on aligning culture and values and Bree Sherwood, Director at PwC, gave a fascinating insight into the latest findings on gender diversity in the Eastern region. Lynn Morgan, CEO at Arthur Rank Hospice Charity (ARHC) and Donna Talbot, Fundraising Director at the charity and previous programme participant, also attended to share the story of ARHC raising £10m to build the spectacular new, awardwinning hospice which opened in Cambridge last year.

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

JULY/AUGUST 2017

It was all hands on deck at JMS headquarters with a quick turnaround needed for new sponsorship bumpers for returning client TrustATrader.

They had less than 24 hours to pitch ideas and from green light to delivery they managed to cast, set build, edit, clear and deliver all the idents needed within just four working days.

Region’s business leaders discuss gender equality.

The event, held at The Jockey Rooms in Newmarket on 24 May, brought together past and present delegates of the Women’s Leadership Programme, and their employer sponsors, as well as others interested in inclusive leadership.

TrustATrader chooses JMS to produce sponsorship for ITV's Bigheads.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

Company relocates.

Naked Element are now based at New Patricks Yard, 2 Recorder Road, Norwich, NR1 1NR. The company has recently grown its team, employing a Commercial Director and three new full time developers. As they have grown, they have needed more equipment and much more space.

At New Patricks Yard they have the advantages of their own office, air conditioning, a shower, whiteboard walls and remote controlled windows.

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

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Talking Technology Norfolk’s premier annual business technology conference will return for its seventh year in September.

The Talking Technology conference is aimed at raising awareness of available technologies in order to support business’ use of the innovative tech they need to improve productivity and ultimately increase revenue.

Talking Technology features industry leaders who are making an impact in the tech world and who will offer the insight and practical advice delegates need to take businesses forward by fully understanding and utilising today’s and tomorrow’s digital technology.

The half-day event on September 20 at The Space, Roundtree Way, Norwich, will feature local and national keynote speakers, workshops, an exhibition and a networking lunch.

We asked some of the speakers due to address the delegates on the day to provide a preview of their presentations

Taking to the sky

How to spot opportunites

Understanding A.I.

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James Horne

Dom Davis

Blue Sky Drones

“BlueSky UAV Specialists use UAVs (drones) for many specialist activities to a range of clients and our aim is to deliver these, with safety being paramount.

“Using UAVs can provide clients with significant time and cost savings when compared to alternative methods, with far improved results.

“Equally, unskilled operators or the incorrect use of UAVs can lead to negative press, reputational damage and expensive insurance claims to clients.

“Our discussion will focus on the safe use of UAVS, the various applications, the technology, the misuse, and the regulatory requirements of aerial works.”

Tech Marionette

Alex Redston and Kieran Ball Prison Voicemail

Talking about communication, Kieran said: “Technology has diminished the importance of location when starting a business, and our experience is a good case in point. From an office in Norwich, our small team operates a communications system that is now offered in a hundred prisons nationwide with customers based all around the world.

“This levelled playing field, however, means idea and execution are now more important than ever.

“Our talk at Talking Technology 2017 will focus on our process for identifying an unusual market opportunity, finding and validating a unique solution and bringing it to market.”

“From an office in Norwich, our small team operates a communications system that is now offered in a hundred prisons nationwide with customers based all around the world.”

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

Speaking about the rise of artificial intelligence, Dom Davis said: “Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is probably one of the most misunderstood terms in technology today.

“Its definition really depends on how you define ‘artificial’ and, more critically, how you define ‘intelligence’.

“Asking how AI will affect business is about as useful as asking how locomotion will affect business.

“Instead we should be thinking about what modern, smart algorithms can do for businesses of all sizes, because it turns out we’ve been adopting AI for a while now, we just haven’t realised.

“It’s becoming ubiquitous, and businesses of any size can utilise it to give them a real edge.”

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Feature

2017.

Looking to the future

Dean Withey Ubisend

“I will be talking about ‘Everything on Demand’ and how the use of artificial intelligence, chatbots and two-way messaging channels are helping businesses now and what this means for the future.

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“We are at the start of a perfect storm where technology can match or exceed consumers’ expectations of how businesses should interact with them.

“We now live in an age where convenience always wins out. This means that companies of all size need to solve problems quickly and efficiently to differentiate themselves.

“The future of AI and messaging services allows companies to improve b2c conversation. For example, AI gives the ability to answer questions 24/7, it never loses its temper with a customer and provides the quick and efficient communication that people demand.

“An AI-driven chatbot solutions provide a unified, cross business unit and scaleable solution. It will free up valuable resources and enable businesses to solve people’s problems with real care.”

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Date: Wednesday 20 September 2017 Time: 08:30 to 14:00 Venue: The Space, Roundtree Way, Norwich Price: from £30+VAT To see full programme, speaker line-up and to book your place, visit norfolkchamber.co.uk/TalkingTech17

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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

The success story helping to inspire the next generation of young engineers.

Few businesses can have undergone as dramatic a transformation as Norwich-based Lintott Control Systems Limited.

Five years ago, the company was in a distressed state with an uncertain future. Reinvented, Lintott today is very different. The company has a strong order book and longterm sales prospects, it is trading profitably and is developing groundbreaking ways of working.

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stagnated productivity. Lintott holds the view that placing people at the heart of business, training them, looking after their wellbeing and investing in new technology will address that.

“Satisfied and engaged personnel, motivated by engaging managers who inspire creativity will underpin productivity improvement. This is something we should seek to become much better at regionally as well as nationally while investing in technology.”

At the heart of the company’s success has been a focus on engaging its employees in everything that it does while at the same time using the very latest technology and digital systems to improve its productivity.

The other part of the company’s approach is its commitment to the local community, much of which is intended to help develop the Engineering and Manufacturing Sector regionally and to bring on the next generation of designers and engineers.

Indeed, in September the company will expand that work by hosting a new Academy on its site to encourage more young people to pursue careers in the field of STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). Narrowing the skills shortage in STEM is widely acknowledged as crucial to the UK’s success.

Today, Lintott is a pioneering and multi-award-winning Process Solutions Provider, which specialises in the design, manufacture and after-care of factory-built, packaged Water and Wastewater Treatment Systems, Process Software and Electrical Control Panels.

The latest chapter in Lintott’s story took shape when David Owen (Managing Director) and Jamie Thums (Chief Operating Officer) joined existing Director Mark Davy, taking controlling interest in the company.

Jamie said: “The year before we took over, the company had lost £1.3 million. The problem was that, although it had a full order book, booked margins were very tight, but orders still had to be delivered. It was immediately obvious, though, that the strength in the business was its staff.

“We set about turning the company around by engaging our people in everything that we did and by improving our use of technology wherever we could.”

As time has moved on, a central part of the process has been embracing Industry 4.0, which relates in part to the way devices communicate and interact. At Industry 4.0’s heart is a growing realisation that huge amounts of time and effort are wasted because too many production and backoffice systems are not connected, something Lintott set about correcting.

Jamie said: “We set about reinventing the company and we did it without any bank borrowings.

When we took over, it was not long after the recession and banks were naturally extremely cautious – notably with what was a lossmaking business.

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

“Understandably, people were worried about what was going to happen, but we were transparent from the outset and set out to take them along with us.

“Although we had to downsize the workforce, from approximately 160 to 80, we did so without making a single person redundant.

Simultaneously, we worked with colleagues to implement new working practices and implemented technology and software to integrate, automate and streamline our processes, initially without significant investment.

“Reinvented, today we have a strong order book and we’re recruiting, more than 30% in the past 12 months with more to come.”

Turnover in 2016 was up 22% on sales of £9.7 million and this year turnover is expected to rise by even more.

But the story does not stop there: the Lintott Team is eager to broaden its learning, investigating and sharing with others new and innovative ways of working.

Jamie, who chairs the New Anglia Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Group said: “As a nation, we have a problem with

With more than 100 community events under its belt since February 2015 and as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, Lintott believes in bringing through the next generation of young talent.

The company works closely with the University of East Anglia to support graduates and has teamed up with East Coast College, the College of West Anglia and Norfolk County Council to open the academy on its site.

Jamie said: “In addition to the need to support STEM, we must also develop the best leaders possible, so we attract, encourage and develop the next generation of engineers, technicians and scientists which will underpin the economic development and fabric of the region and the UK. “The external view of engineering in particular remains tarnished by a bygone era. The modern workplace is digital, it embraces and pioneers technology and is fuelled by the talent of its people. The more opportunities we provide for young people to experience it, the greater our opportunity of drawing more people to join and thrive in the sector.”

JULY/AUGUST 2017

BigInterview

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We set about turning the company around by engaging our people in everything that we did and by improving our use of technology wherever we could.

Jamie Thums Chief Operating Officer

JULY/AUGUST 2017

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

Essential Chamber Membership

All this for just

£150 + VAT

What is it?

Essential Chamber Membership is a new support membership package for small businesses who are looking for a cost effective means of support, advice & protection.

Who is it for?

This membership package is available to any business with 10 or less employees.

What is included?

HR Advice Line

Tax Advice Line

HR Document Library

Tax Investigation Insurance

Legal Advice Line

Online Directory Listing

£1m of Legal Expenses Insurance

Use of the Norfolk Chamber Logo

How much is it?

All this for just £150 + VAT

On average full HMRC investigations last 16 months and cost a potential £5,000 in accountancy fees. Having tax investigation insurance and advice when you need it is essential.

The British Chambers of Commerce have found that the average cost to employers of defending an employment tribunal is around £8,500.

To find out more and join online visit:

norfolkchamber.co.uk/essential-chamber-membership

MemberNews

Health & Safety Officer tackles 100 mile Tour de Broads Bike Ride.

In August this year Chris Brown, Monthind Clean's Health and Safety Officer will tackle the challenge of the Tour De Broads Race in Norfolk.

Chris successfully took part in the 100 mile bike ride last year with Partner Simon Biggs, and together raised £2,000 for Macmillan. The Tour de Broads is a fantastic event and is suitable for all ages and abilities as you can choose to ride just 3 miles or up to 100 miles. The longer route that Chris will be doing incorporates 16 Broads, 4 rivers and countless beautiful Broads National Park Villages. The 100 mile bike ride route can be seen in yellow in the image.

This year Chris will be raising money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance Charity.

Chris said: “'For people unfortunate enough to be involved in accidents or medical emergencies, the likelihood of a full recovery – perhaps even survival – can depend on the level of specialist medical care

they receive and how quickly they receive it. This is where EAAA can help. Since 2000 they have attended over 20,000 lifesaving missions, touching the lives of many thousands of people.”

You can support Chris at justgiving.com/ fundraising/CHRIS-BROWN125

Young writers explore the world through poetry as competitions returns.

Briar Chemicals Young Poets of the Year competition has launched to schools across the region.

This year’s theme is ‘Planet Earth’ and youngsters are asked to take their inspiration from their surroundings and write creatively about their perception of the world.

The final stage judge for the competition is Evolutionary biologist and TV presenter Ben Garrod. Ben has presented shows including Attenborough and the Giant Dinosaur with Sir David Attenborough, his awardwinning Secrets of Bones series and, most recently, The Day the Dinosaurs Died on the BBC broadcasted earlier this month.

The competition, now in its 13th year, is part of Briar’s Science in Schools programme, which aims to make science learning fun, informative and create opportunities for children to learn about science and the environment.

Tim Green, Site Manager at Briar Chemicals, said: “Children are intrigued about their surroundings from an early age. This competition encourages them to use their imagination; helping create an interest and understanding of how science is all around us in our everyday life.”

The competition has two age categories; eight to nine year olds and 10 to 11 year olds and schools across the region are invited to take part. The competition is open to pupils from schools within the EDP circulation area.

JULY/AUGUST 2017

The winner of each age category will receive £100 and each of their schools will receive £500, courtesy of Briar Chemicals. Briar will also donate £500 to help support Mr Garrod’s chosen charity, the Marine Conservation Society. The winners will also have the opportunity to spend a morning at the EDP. First stage judges this year are Prof Anne Osbourn from the John Innes Centre and founder of the SAW Trust (Science, Art and Writing, Lauren Cope from the EDP, and Sarah Piercy from Briar Chemicals.

The closing date for the entries is 21st July 2017, with the winners announced around National Poetry Day in September. For more information about the competition, email poetry.competition@briarchemicals. com.

US2U Consulting: Showing off at ExCel London.

US2U Consulting attended The Business Show 2017 on 17 and 18 May at ExCeL London to gain insights into the latest hot topics among the UK business community.

As the nation's largest free business trade show, The Business Show welcomed more than 25,000 businesses across the two days and included more than 350 exhibitors as well as hundreds of interactive masterclass sessions and seminars across its five business zones.

Among the highlights for the US2U Consulting team were the engaging life stories by 2014 Apprentice Winner Mark Wright, Caprice and Myprotein Founder Oliver Cookson, along with a lively debate about contract and employment law with controversial Pimlico Plumbers CEO Charlie Mullins (pictured with Rachel Blackburn). They also heard about key opportunities in Africa and the ASEAN nations, as well as the story of how Cornwall-based company Tregothnan became the official brand of tea for the Government's GREAT campaign.

Have you got a good news story to share?

Chamber members can publish on our website for free!

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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

37

Advertising

Supporting member businesses to grow across the energy sector.

The East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) is at the forefront of promoting businesses operating on the unique all-energy coast, England’s leading energy hub, nationally and internationally.

It supports its growing supply chain membership by connecting them with leading players in oil & gas, offshore wind and other renewable energies and nuclear, as well as acting as a central point of information for the industry’s latest developments.

For more than 16 years the EEEGR team has worked to provide all its members with access to new business, whether it’s meeting vendors face-to-face at its many networking events, or its annual conference and exhibition, and Meet the Buyer sessions.

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The not-for-profit organisation provides a collective voice for its 300-plus members, from leading international operators to SMEs and consultancies, to make regional industry concerns heard throughout the industry and at the highest level in Westminster and around the world.

Relationships and Memorandums of Understanding are flourishing with ‘exciting and important partnerships’, including Oil & Gas UK, Decom North Sea, EEEGR’s counterparts in the Netherlands, the Association of Dutch Suppliers in the Oil and Gas Industry and Offshore Renewable Industry (IRO) and Virginia Offshore Wind

Coalition (VOW) to help business development and export openings for its members.

Chief Executive Simon Gray said the East of England was a significant contributor to UKplc and increasingly crucial in keeping the nation lit and heated.

He said: “For more than 50 years, the gas industry off our coast has been key to the nation’s energy supply. Gas still has a future for decades ahead. Alongside the gas industry in the Southern North Sea off Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex has been the huge growth and multibillion investment into offshore wind as well as the potential for nuclear new build at Sizewell and Bradwell.”

He says that the East of England also has a ‘golden opportunity’ to become the centre of the multibillion decommissioning of assets across the Southern North Sea. In addition, EEEGR’s approach in bringing serious policy debate to its members wins frequent praise from national industry leaders.

Chief executive UK Onshore Oil & Gas, Ken Cronin congratulated EEEGR for gathering all national leaders on one stage.

Oil & Gas UK chief executive Deirdre Michie told a packed conference at its SNS2017 conference and exhibition in March: “I am always struck by the forward thinking of this part of the industry.”

Post-Brexit, EEEGR is leading where the industry needs to follow, according to RenewableUk chief executive Hugh McNeal, by presenting energy as a single voice.

He said: “As an industry, we can’t afford to focus inwards and focus on the value of different technologies.

We have to focus on supporting the supply chain to grow its business, recognise business and employment opportunities from all energy sectors.”

EEEGR is also taking a leading role in shaping the future of the industry with its four Special Interest Groups – Late Life and Decommissioning, SNS Rejuvenation, Offshore Wind Supply Chain and Marine.

The SNS Rejuvenation SIG, in partnership with the OGA and Oil and Gas UK, is chaired by Centrica’s Fraser Weir. The Group is driving the potential for unlocking the remaining 3.8tcf of gas categorised as ‘tight’ gas to secure longevity of the region where so many companies in the East of England have worked for the past five decades.

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

The SIG is also is addressing opportunities to work more closely with counterparts in the Netherlands, who share the area’s geology and many other similarities in the SNS gas basin.

Working to maximise opportunities for offshore wind The Offshore Wind Supply Chain SIG is working to ensure the region’s supply chain has every opportunity to compete in the UK and internationally, as the domestic offshore wind capacity is estimated to expand to almost five times by 2030.

A pipeline of new offshore wind farms stretches ahead for decades off the east coast, offering employment prospects through construction and operations and maintenance stages.

Ensuring a skilled labour force to serve future offshore developments and the nuclear industry, within Sizewell C on the horizon, EEEGR’s Skills for Energy programme works closely with employers and organisations, including the ECITB and OPITO, as well as the regions universities, colleges and schools.

JULY/AUGUST 2017

EnergyFocus Statutory and industry-specific medicals for working in the energy sector.

Statutory medicals are those required by UK or EU law, whilst industry-specific medicals are those monitored by an industry regulator. The hazardous nature of energy-sector workplaces means a range of medicals are required before employees can start work, and health surveillance may be required to continue working.

For anyone working offshore in the industry, Oil and Gas UK (OGUK) require an OGUK medical to be carried out. This medical is valid for up to two years and is required to work in UK and North Sea waters.

Offshore wind is a significant component of the energy mix in the region, and offshore wind workers will be expected to undertake the RenewableUK Medical Fitness to Work – Wind Turbines medical.

This is a comprehensive medical that tests physical, cognitive and sensory function to ensure the employee is fit to undertake a role in the physically demanding and potentially hazardous offshore environment.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency require anyone working on a seafaring vessel to have an up-todate ENG1 medical. These medicals are valid for up to two years and must be carried out by an approved practitioner.

In addition to these industry medicals, statutory medicals and health surveillance may be required to ensure compliance with relevant law. This is to ensure that the role employees perform does not adversely affect their health. Working in noisy or dusty environments, or where exposure

to hazardous material is a risk will often mean employers should be undertaking health surveillance on their employees.

Choosing an Occupational Health provider that has the competency to perform these tests is essential if employers are to meet their legal

obligations in protecting the health of their workforce.

For more information contact info@wrightwayhealth.co.uk or visit www.wrightwayhealth.co.uk

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

Advertising

A modern approach to energy.

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Indigo Swan are an energy consultancy based in the heart of Norwich. Their contemporary approach to energy management helped them win Energy Consultancy of the Year at the TELCAs in 2016, and they’re shortlisted for the same award again this year.

The truth is that every business needs the energy industry, but the reality is it can get extremely complex, time consuming and expensive. Whether you currently use a broker or do it yourself, like everything else, it’s a financial and time cost that can be controlled.

Introducing Chamber Energy “We started working with Indigo Swan in 2015, and Chamber Energy was born soon afterwards. We recognised there was an opportunity to collaborate and offer Chamber members the chance to review their energy spend with a local company they could trust. Since then, our members have seen the benefits of using an energy consultant, and the feedback we’ve had on the service Indigo Swan provide has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Jason Williams, Business Manager, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

JULY/AUGUST 2017

EnergyFocus Market knowhow We include Market Knowhow in our monthly newsletter. We send this information out to our clients, alongside blogs, product showcases and case studies. As you’re a chamber member, we’d love you to subscribe too.

There have been many influences impacting on the Gas and Electricity Wholesale price over the last year but, overall, we are in a similar position to 12 months ago. However, as we incentivise bringing renewable generation online and secure enough power to avoid the lights going out at peak times of demand, other charges within Electricity costs are increasing.

How we generate Electricity is changing, with a move away from Coal. In April we saw the first 24 hour period without Coal generation since the 1880s and a total monthly contribution of just 2% compared to about 25% for the year of 2015. Coal is an expensive form of generation, so we have seen closures, the intention being to close all by 2025 due to its environmental impact.

We rely heavily on Gas to generate Electricity, regularly contributing 45% plus to the monthly mix, compared to 30% in 2015. Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) deliveries and imports from Europe will be key this winter as Rough, our largest Gas storage facility, has now permanently closed. Rough is normally available during the winter to meet high demand, so its

If you would like to subscribe to our Market Knowhow please click here – www.indigoswan. co.uk/mk

© Beth Moseley Photography

absence could see regular seasonal price volatility.

According to the National Grid’s Summer Outlook Report, Solar and Wind contributions this summer may mean that measures are taken to use excess power or instruct other generation to cease. Great for the summer, but what about the winter when demand is at its peak and we have cold dark days?

The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) members have suffered due to the fall in the Oil price. This was over $100 barrel in 2014, but seems comfortable around $45-$55. An attempt was made to stimulate the price, with OPEC members agreeing to cap production from Jan 2017 – March 2018, joined

by Russia. This had little long-term impact, as US production proved resilient and increased output.

Brexit has built in an additional concern into prices, along with a de-valued £, increasing our import costs which has since become worse with the election result. On a positive note, as the Conservatives appear to have retained power, energy policy should remain stable to allow investment in targeted areas, such as Offshore Wind generation.

A good consultancy vs a great consultancy A good energy consultancy is there to help you make a good decision for your business. A great consultancy knows there’s more to it than just cost.

A great consultancy will consider how to get the best contract for your business, and how it can save you time on everything else, including:

n Make sure any objections are smoothed out so you can switch

Whether you use an energy consultant or not, here are some points to remember:

n Take and confirm meter reads are correct

n Compile all your current data to understand what’s what

Now, back to ‘professionally advising on the best option for you’. The issue is energy suppliers have sales targets and incentives.

Businesses often take advice from the finance & legal sectors, and these are heavily regulated. The energy industry, however, is unregulated and herein lies the problem.

n Make sure you have all the info you need before collecting prices

n Collect prices from suppliers n Decipher and compare them for you n And professionally advise on the best option for you (we’ll come back to this) Once you’ve decided which energy contract to take, they should pick up the reins again and take the hassle out of all the post-decision activities as well, like: n Arrange the contract paperwork with the suppliers

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Let’s say it’s the end of the month and a consultant needs one more supplier contract to hit this month’s super-duper cash incentive.

Another contract looks slightly better price-wise (and over the course of 3 years it’s actually quite a big difference) but has no incentive. They know you don’t really know what you are looking at.

So, which one do you think they will advise you to pick? A consultant should always be impartial.

n Make an informed decision about when it is the right time to buy your energy n Get a good spread of prices n Compare them on a like for like basis If you are using a consultant make sure they are conducting the above with your best interests at heart (not theirs), or you could be paying more than you need to If you aren’t using a consultant, think about how much your time is worth and whether it’s wise to get someone to lift this burden for you.

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

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Q&A with Emily Groves, Founder of Indigo Swan

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What encouraged you to start an energy consultancy?

Prior to starting Indigo Swan I worked for an energy savings technology company. During this time, two things became very obvious to me 1. Businesses were trying to save money by reducing their energy consumption levels, and yet how and when they purchased their energy was a frustrating and confusing task.

2. I was hating the journey I was on.

My job was tremendously stressful, I worked extremely long hours, I wasn’t being listened to and it was starting to impact my health physically and mentally.

Clearly there had to be a better way.

I set out with the mission to craft a rewarding and enjoyable experience for myself, my colleagues, our clients and the wider business community we engage with.

to your people. Having trust and honesty at the core of what you do means they’ll be engaged with your mission, feel proud of the organisation and have a hunger to always find a better way.

What does good business look like to you?

I’m so very proud of what we’ve achieved over the past 7 years.

We were built on the foundations of my personal experience and enthusiasm, and it’s this passion that’s shot through everything we do.

By valuing integrity above profit we’ve been awarded the UK’s Consultancy of the Year in 2016, our retention rate sits at 93% and our Net Promoter Score of 85 is industry leading.

The energy industry is unregulated which sadly allows a varying standard in quality and transparency delivered by energy brokers and consultants across the UK. This is unacceptable to me and I feel a responsibility to demonstrate that poor service, profiteering and misleading practices don’t have to be synonymous with our sector.

It has always been my belief that good business is directly connected

It is my aim to prove you can run an energy consultancy well, where your people are at the heart of everything you do, whilst still being profitable.

“I think good business is about holding tight to your values while delivering a world class service that meets and exceed the needs of your clients.

We want to be a shining example, on a national stage, of what a small business in Norfolk can achieve.”

Indigo Swan at the 2016 Telca Awards and Energy Awards ceremonies NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

JULY/AUGUST 2017

EnergyFocus Here’s what our customers have to say about us Having used our previous broker for a number of years we were happy that the costs we were achieving were reasonable but we were looking for more. What really stands out about Indigo Swan for me is that they go out of their way to make sure you fully understand the intricacies of the energy market through easy to understand reports with clear explanations and regular market updates - they’re experts but are always happy to share their knowledge.

We purchase energy on a truly industrial scale so ensuring the best possible purchase price is key for us and our customers. Indigo Swan clearly understood the market and could provide the best advice.

Indigo Swan have saved us thousands of pounds on a number of contracts which means the money saved can go towards the cost of running our hospices and providing much-needed care for our users.

David Manning from Migsolv

Sandra Holdsworth from EACH

Our previous broker was simply not as efficient as Indigo Swan. We never have to worry about mistakes being made or wait for responses as we had to do in the past.

Steve Falvey at The Forum

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

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

Advertising

East Coast College has arrived.

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The energy training and skills landscape has made an exciting step forward in the East of England through the merger of Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft Colleges to form East Coast College (ECC).

Serving the offshore wind value chain As an internationally renowned maritime and offshore training centre, ECC is approved by the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA), OPITO and the Nautical Institute and has unique expertise in offshore emergency response, electrical safety, dynamic positioning, navigation, radio communications and marine safety training for offshore wind farm personnel and companies.

In a drive to support collaboration within offshore wind the college has successfully partnered with two of Europe’s leading GWO approved training centres, Stuart Rimmer CEO and Principal

3Sun Training Academy and the National Wind Farm Training Centre.

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

This has led to the availability of the full suite of GWO approved Basic Safety Training modules, offered on a regular and flexible basis. Ian Pease, ECC’s Director of Commercial Development said “The value of our training partnerships lies in the ability to share the very best training facilities and industry best practice, ensuring that delegates attending GWO training receive a realistic and relevant experience equipping them to work with safety always at the forefront of their minds”.

Ian added, “We are dedicated to meeting the needs of the regions offshore wind sector and our locations in Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth, at the very heart of offshore wind construction, operations and maintenance, means we are well-connected to the industry and can respond swiftly

to its training and competence demands which are wide and varied”.

From Passion to Profession Stuart Rimmer, CEO and Principal of ECC said, “This is a really exciting time to be part of something new, the college prides itself on its ability to better equip students for university, an apprenticeship and their profession: through the development of soft skills, character and attitude, combined with top quality technical and professional training, ECC really is focused on turning ‘your passion into your profession’.

University of Suffolk ECC is a partner college of the University of Suffolk, offering JULY/AUGUST 2017

EnergyFocus

Embracing Offshore Wind.

Since the installation of the first offshore wind farm in the North Sea, East Coast College (ECC) has embraced offshore wind by working closely with developers and their supply chains to create a host of innovative training solutions.

It’s fully equipped with a marine transfer ladder replicating the access facilities workers are going to encounter when they visit a wind turbine, sub-station or offshore work vessel”. He added, “Its versatility also enables us to run product trials for clients including rescue devices, life-saving appliances and immersion suits - there is no better way to gain confidence in new equipment than trying it out in a safe and controlled environment”.

Ian Pease

Director of Commercial Development, ECC

degrees and HNDs to local adults wishing to develop or start a new career. And for those returning to education, the college has a host of Access courses that provide the allimportant spring board and study skills to start a degree.

The college has developed professional and technical faculties aligned to strategic growth areas for the region including Energy Engineering and has ambitious plans for a new £10 million Energy Skills Centre based at its Lowestoft campus, operational from Q4 2018. www.eastcoast.ac.uk/maritimeoffshore-energy

JULY/AUGUST 2017

World class facilities ECC offers an almost unique range of training facilities and safety courses to meet the needs of workers in the industry. A jewel in the crown is it’s Environmental Survival Tank (pictured) which has long been recognised as one of the UK’s best training facilities of its type, offering realistic sea conditions including waves, rain, wind and varying light all in controlled safety.

Ian Pease, ECCs Director of Commercial Development said, “Our environmental survival tank enables us to work with our partners to deliver GWO Sea Survival training alongside STCW Personal Survival Techniques.

Emergency Response for Offshore Wind ECC offers a series of scenario based offshore wind emergency response training and assessment programmes for Marine Coordinators, Control Room Operators and wind farm managers. Ian said, “We work directly with wind farm developers to test both their emergency response plans and their teams to ensure they are effective and work seamlessly together”. The college has a dedicated emergency response facility which it can modify to reflect individual wind farm control room facilities and emergency command centre systems creating a highly realistic training and assessment environment.

Just ask, ECC can help From MCA and RYA approved marine radio communications to Nautical Institute approved dynamic positioning training, ECCs training portfolio is wide ranging. Ian added, “The wind industry is fascinating and it’s not always the usual courses we get asked for, we’re about to launch a new one-day offshore wind farm navigational awareness course for marine coordinators and managers so that they better understand the conditions that crew transfer vessels encounter.

It includes the impacts of tides, weather and sea conditions and the limitations arising from the marine environment – this is a concept conceived through a ‘corridor conversation’ with managers attending a GWO Basic Safety Training at our centre who identified a gap in their team’s competence profile that we could help fill”.

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

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Advertising

Businesses in Norfolk and Suffolk can ‘BEE’ greener and save money for free, thanks to the Business Energy Efficiency (BEE) Anglia project.

So far BEE Anglia have awarded £93,975 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.

To date the project has reviewed 320 organisations and identified cost savings of £2,096,351 (£6,551 per business), and carbon savings of 21,557t (67t per business). The savings identified are the equivalent of 6407 flights from London to Sydney.

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“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

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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 (up to £20,000) and recognition for their efforts (Carbon Charter accreditation).

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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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beeanglia.org or call 01473 350370

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

JULY/AUGUST 2017

EnergyFocus

Commercial Solar.

Energy costs continue to rise faster than inflation and it is worth considering new technologies to maximise energy efficiencies to reduce power consumption and energy costs. On a commercial scale Solar PV, Voltage optimisation and LED lighting are 3 easy ways to have an immediate impact on bills.

This form of energy is undoubtedly the most economical and environmentally friendly way of reducing your long-term energy costs and carbon footprint.

Furthermore, the feed-in-tariff is still index linked and will give you a higher return than most other secure investments.

About Green Solar Footprint We are an independent local Norfolk based company that design and install Photovoltaic (PV) Electricity systems. As a customer-focused company, our team will guide you through every stage of the process whatever the size of project. We offer a wide variety of solar panels and inverters to suit every size of budget and installation. Our portfolio includes both in-roof and on-roof systems for new builds,

solar

ground mount systems and flat roof systems. We deal with both private and commercial work. We provide a 10 year warranty.

Green Solar Footprint are an NICEIC and MCS accredited member of RECC quality assurance scheme and a member of Which? Trusted Traders.

For more information or to ask for a free quote please contact Jaime Foot on 07881 934438, email admin@greensolarfootprint.co.uk or look at our website greensolarfootprint.co.uk “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children” quote from a Native American Proverb.

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How Wrightway Health helps power the Energy Sector.

Occupational Health in the energy sector is vitally important; employees work in high-pressure, potentially hazardous locations and environments where maintaining a healthy workforce is critical. Ensuring employees are fit to work in these environments helps prevent accidents, whilst ongoing monitoring of employee health can manage risk and sickness absence.

Wrightway Health offers all mandatory medicals required to work offshore, as well as offering bespoke packages where required.

Their clinic in Gorleston is ideally placed to service the offshore energy industry in Norfolk and Suffolk, but contractors may be based across the region. With clinics also in Norwich, Ipswich, Cambridge and Bury too, Wrightway have ensured that employees never have far to travel to get to a clinic.

Appointment availability is excellent across all clinics, recognising that workers may need medicals completed at short notice. The company offers ENG1, OGUK and Wind Turbine medicals, as well as CAA-mandated Step Change measurements and all other travel and visa-related medicals.

Every month, hundreds of employees use Wrightway Health to be medically certified for

JULY/AUGUST 2017

working offshore, but the company also works with large operators in the energy sector to deliver Occupational Health services at volume to employees. Large-scale health surveillance is used to screen employees facing potential exposure to hazardous chemicals, or monitor potential injury from hand-arm vibration syndrome, amongst others.

It is Wrightway Health’s understanding of the requirements of the energy industry and the particular hazards within it that have made them such a successful supply chain partner for the sector.

Alison Mackway, MD of Wrighway Health explains: “We’ve worked hard to build relationships within the sector, and our success is built on our reputation. Customers know we have more doctors and

specific skills in-house than our competitors. That means we can intervene early and effectively to keep employees healthy, safe and at work.”

For more information contact info@wrightwayhealth.co.uk or visit www.wrightwayhealth.co.uk

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

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Our agreements with all the major energy suppliers mean we will get you the lowest prices for your energy.

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EnergyFocus

Demonstrating the benefits of investment: enhancing the economic case Government support for an industry is dependent on that industry demonstrating the economic benefits it will deliver for the UK. Back in January, the Green Paper ‘Building our Industrial Strategy’ included an announcement to create an Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, and the potential to capitalise on Britain’s strengths in clean energy.

The recent election may have added a layer of complexity in terms of policy direction. However, this year is expected to see the publication of the Emissions Reduction Plan, a requirement under the Climate Change Act 2008. Whatever the make-up of government, decarbonisation needed by the Climate Change Act should provide opportunities for renewable energy firms moving forwards.

To secure Government support, industry needs to demonstrate a compelling case in terms of provision of jobs and wider economic benefits. Risk & Policy Analysts (RPA), an independent economics consultancy based in Loddon, Norfolk, is uniquely placed to help industry with this aim. We can identify, describe and monetise these benefits to enable industry to work towards realising the benefits for themselves, for Norfolk, and for the country as a whole.

Much of RPA’s work involves developing approaches to capture the economic, social and environmental benefits of projects, programmes and policies. We have both private and public sector clients, giving us insight into both perspectives and, importantly, the way that decisions are made. Our methodologies are recognised

for their innovative approaches, enabling a much wider range of benefits to be captured than is traditionally the case.

Estimating economic benefits Our methodologies cover wind, wave and tidal renewable energies and have been applied in various locations. For example, we developed a methodology (with ABPmer) for the Crown Estate1 to help developers identify the economic benefits, as Gross Value Added and jobs, from their investments in renewable energies.

This methodology was developed specifically for wave and tidal energy in the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters. Yet the steps within it are equally applicable to Norfolk and the east of England, especially given that our region hosts some of the world’s experts in renewable energy2. To estimate the economic benefits, the methodology follows three steps: n Step 1: the developer identifies how much of total projected expenditure could be allocated to construction, operation and maintenance, or decommissioning activities.

Expenditure in these areas is

then divided into categories reflecting specific activities such as (for construction): engineering services, component manufacturing, marine services, assembly, coating/ painting services, plate and steel fabrication, fabrication of electrical equipment, cabling services and installation, etc. n Step 2: the developer identifies how much of the expenditure allocated to each category could be spent in the local area, nationally or elsewhere. n Step 3: the developer identifies how and where current capacity may be the limiting factor on expenditure locally or regionally.

The methodology is supported by a spreadsheet with guidance on application of the approach also provided. Trialling of the methodology by developers helped ensure that the approach was understandable and provided realistic results.

Social and environmental impacts Although the economic benefits of an investment may be the focus of Government, an even more compelling case can be made by

incorporating the associated social and environmental benefits. We have a wealth of experience in assessing benefits to society as well as the benefits of the environment to industry. Broadening out an economic assessment to capture the wider social and environmental benefits does not just add to the case from industry’s perspective; it also enables Government to see how many of its wider goals and targets could also be achieved.

Capturing social and environmental benefits can also be useful in demonstrating to local people and communities how projects can improve their quality of life, through providing knock-on investment in social and natural capital. Again, RPA can provide support and assistance when assessing these benefits as well as offering advice and guidance on how to capture benefits across the three pillars of sustainability.

To discuss how RPA can help you please contact Teresa Fenn or Elizabeth Daly on 01508 528465 (teresa.fenn@rpaltd.co.uk; elizabeth.daly@rpaltd.co.uk). You can also see more information on us and our work at www.rpaltd.co.uk.

1 Link to RPA’s report for the Crown Estate: https://www.thecrownestate.co.uk/media/5468/socio-economic-methodology-and-baseline-for-pfow-wave-tidal-developments.pdf 2 New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership: http://www.newanglia.co.uk/our-prioritiessector-groups-and-contacts/energy/ JULY/AUGUST 2017

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

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Advertising

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Seabed Scour Control Systems Ltd. Seabed Scour Control Systems Ltd is acknowledged as the World Leader in the provision of Frond Scour Protection Systems for the global Oil and Gas and Renewable Energy Industries.

SSCS was established in the early 1980’s to meet the demand from the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry to address the impact of seabed scour on platforms, pipelines and similar subsea structures installed initially in the UK North Sea. SSCS has since extended its marketing area of operations worldwide and from its headquarters in Great Yarmouth is meeting customer requirements in the Far East, Middle East, the USA and China and now also supplies the field proven SSCS Frond Mat system into additional markets including offshore wind.

Recent projects utilising the SSCS Frond Mats include ongoing works in China for SINOPEC and CNPC, as well as our current involvement with

the development of the East Anglia One offshore wind farm found much closer to home.

structure which can cause holes in the seabed and weaken the turbine’s foundations.

ScottishPower Renewables is testing the suitability of the SSCS Frond Mats for use around the jacket foundations on the turbines at its 102-turbine East Anglia ONE wind farm. They are being tested at different scales, including using small-scale replica models that were produced and supplied by SSCS at the HR Wallingford testing facility in Oxfordshire.

Currently developers often use small rocks and boulders to perform this task which provide temporary protection, but SSCS Frond Mats providing a permanent solution could make the process more accurate and reduce costs, whilst reducing the footprint of the protection on the seabed and significantly reducing / eliminating any negative environmental impact associated with other methods of protection.

The technology mimics seaweed and sea grasses by slowing down the flow of water at the base of the turbine. This protects against damage from scour, which is the transport of sediment (sand in this instance) in the sea around the

Charlie Jordan, project director of East Anglia ONE, said: “We are keen to invest in technologies that have the potential to increase efficiency at the same time as reducing costs.

SSCS Frond Mats “Turbines need to be protected in a harsh marine environment, and although it is early days for frond mats, we are encouraged by what we have seen so far.”

“Turbines need to be protected in a harsh marine environment, and although it is early days for frond mats, we are encouraged by what we have seen so far.”

Charlie Jordan, Project Director of East Anglia ONE NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

JULY/AUGUST 2017

EnergyFocus

SSCS Lifting.

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SSCS Lifting operates as a Division of Seabed Scour Control Systems and combines expertise with many years experience and are not only manufacturers and suppliers of Lifting Products but additionally offer a genuine problem solving capability for all lifting and lashing problems covering every area of Testing and Certification.

SSCS Lifting is approved to DNV 2.7-1 for the manufacture of Lifting Sling Assemblies for Offshore Containers as well as being full members of the LEEA (Lifting Equipment Engineers Association).

Testing and Certification work is supported by a fully computerised certification management system, which maintains a comprehensive client database with records of each individual item of equipment provided or tested which can be used to compile Factory, Site, Vessel, Rig or Platform registers on Disc or Paper.

All certification is accessible from the company website at

JULY/AUGUST 2017

www.sscsystems.com which provides clients with 24/7 access to their certification.

The Company has worked in the Oil & Gas, Diving, Industrial, Defence & Agricultural industries for many years with both Supply and Hire of lifting equipment to support these operations. More recently, this experience and knowledge has been utilized in supporting the Offshore Wind industry for both UK and overseas windfarms.

Extensive work has been undertaken to provide products to the Norwegian sector which comply with the strict requirements of the NORSOK standards.

A range of available test equipment can offer both on-site and a call out service to inspect, test and certify lifting equipment and machinery.

Additionally, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) including Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) and Dye Penetrant (DP) and other forms of NDT including Visual Weld Testing (VT).

You can call us on: 01493 443380 Or e-mail us at: info@sscsystems.com For further information visit: www.sscsystems.com

Specialist equipment in this sector includes: Wire rope presses – from 40 tonne to 600 tonne capability; 100 tonne grade “1” horizontal test bed; 60 tonne jack test rig; various mobile gantries; 10 tonne chain block test rig and a 45 tonne overhead test gantry.

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

21 years – key of the door?

Jenex Ltd has been established since 1996 and is a procurement and equipment supply company to the international Oil & Gas industries, Water and Petrochemical sectors and Global Engineering organisations.

We are the U.K. & European Authorised Stockist/Distributor and Representative for the following companies: Cameron Valves & Measurement, GE Oil & Gas (Texsteam), Pentair (Penberthy), and now Knick. In addition, and to complement our main distributor lines, we also have access to many additional products enabling us to provide our customers the complete package.

With our offices based in Great Yarmouth, we are ideally placed to serve the local energy sector. We have an established worldwide customer base and have long standing relationships as a key supplier to many large global organisations.

K is for key goal

Mark Collins Director of sales and operations

Mark Collins the Managing Director explains that ‘Jenex Ltd’s primary goal is to provide the complete supply service, by establishing a link between customer and manufacturer. We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service, with a focus on using our technical expertise to ensure our customers’ equipment needs are met’.

K is for In November 2015 Jenex Ltd obtained the distributorship for Knick measurement products in the UK. Since its foundation over 50 years ago in Germany, Knick has consistently delivered exceptional quality manufacturing of measuring devices. Today, the owner-operated company still focuses on research, development and innovation to maintain the high levels of technological refinement leading to a large number of patents and licensing agreements.

Knick offers the complete solution for smart sensor applications. The company supplies contactless, reliable and digital measuring technology. Made in Germany with high quality products to exacting standards. Knick offers aboveaverage warranties and superior competency, providing complete satisfaction to the end customer.

K is for Kingsize Last year, Jenex Ltd proudly won the bid to supply two 24 inch valves to a local customer, one of the largest valves we have ever sold. Our senior sales executive Elliott Hannant, worked closely with our client from the initial enquiry through to project completion to ensure that the product we offered met all of the required client specifications and was delivered within the agreed timeframe. Elliott says ‘This was the biggest project I had worked on with Jenex Ltd and I am immensely proud of the end result’.

K is for Knock Knock!

Elliott Hannant Senior Sales

Who’s there? Jenex is! The last 18 months has proven very challenging for the majority of companies involved within the oil and gas sector, and Jenex Ltd is no exception. However, our message today is simple ‘We are still here with open doors, ready for business’.

One aspect that has remained solid throughout it’s 21 years of trading is that our clients both in the UK and worldwide receive excellent customer service, good quality products at competitive prices. Jenex Ltd is fully committed to the energy industry and is constantly evolving to keep up with an ever changing market.

To see how Jenex Ltd can help your business contact: sales@jenex.co.uk or telephone 01493 602211.

EnergyFocus

left to right, Sharon O’Mahony, Sally Spaull and Paul Gibbs

Recruiting for new Energy Division.

P&S Personnel, East Anglia’s leading independent recruitment consultancy, established in 2006 with its flagship location based in Great Yarmouth has appointed experienced recruiter Sally Spaull to head up its new Energy Division.

The award-winning Great Yarmouth based consultancy, which is owned and run by brother and sister duo Paul Gibbs and Sharon O’Mahony and Sharon’s husband Mark O’Mahony offers specialist recruiters internationally in a variety of sectors, including oil & gas, marine, industrial, construction, agricultural, engineering, general administration and finance.

Background: Sally brings with her a wealth of industry knowledge from her background in both the oil & gas industry and renewables and is committed to building a uniquely specialist Energy Division for P&S Personnel.

Sally commented: “I am thrilled to be joining P&S Personnel. Having worked in the Energy industry on both the agency side and the client side, I’ve had the opportunity to hone my skills and contacts across the board and am now able to help

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Paul and Sharon grow the business.

We share the same passion for recruitment, the same hardworking, honest work ethic; if we can’t fill the role well, we won’t fill it. I can’t wait to start building my team and establishing P&S Personnel as the go-to recruitment agency for the Energy sector.”

“And there are signs of green shoots and more positivity in oil & gas after the biggest downturn for many years. Because people have left the sector or retained into others there will be skills shortages, but we can help clients find the best possible candidates

Energy Sector Growth The Energy sector is an obvious growth point for P&S Personnel and the perfect complement to their business. The East of England has, over the last five decades, been the centre of one of the world’s most productive energy industries. It has a well-established, ‘all energy’ base

that embraces oil, gas, nuclear power and renewables amongst other technologies.

Current offshore / onshore wind and oil & gas developments are estimated to be worth £30bn over the next ten years and it is estimated that 7,700 people are employed in the energy sector in the region.

Welcome on Board Sharon O’Mahony said: “We are really excited to have secured Sally’s appointment. As a consultancy, we can now offer a completely unique recruitment service to the Energy sector; no other agency has the depth or breadth of experience that P&S Personnel can offer. The energy sector is over evolving and we are now able to evolve with it and deliver an exceptional service to our clients.

Sally is unquestionably a terrific addition to our team; she has the greatest reputation in the industry and operates with the same level of passion, honestly and integrity that

Paul and I share. We are confident that she will quickly establish the P&S brand as a major player in the Energy sector.”

The company is also looking at expanding its reach to Singapore with a fact-finding visit to explore the growing renewables and offshore sectors there, and is also interested in China, Thailand and Dubai.

Sharon added: “Our business is in a great position and so is the sector – with potential locally, in Europe and worldwide.”

01493 330338 jobs@pspersonnelltd.co.uk www.pspersonnelltd.co.uk

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Diary Dates.

Networking Events Norwich Business Breakfast Where: Sprowston Manor, Norwich When: Thursday 6 July, 07:30 to 09:30 Join us for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast. Make new contacts and catch up with existing ones.

Members only event.

Look The Business Where: Jarrold, Norwich When: Thursday 17 August, 18:00 to 20:00 The ultimate business fashion event is back. The evening offers plenty of opportunities to network with likeminded business people and not only update your wardrobe, but update your business connections too!

Members only event.

Great Yarmouth Business Breakfast

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Where: The Royal Assembly Rooms, Great Yarmouth When: Thursday 7 September, 07:30 to 09:30 Join us for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast. Make new contacts and catch up with existing ones.

Members only event.

West Norfolk Business Breakfast Where: Duke’s Head Hotel, King’s Lynn When: Friday 29 September 08:00 to 10:00 Join us for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast. Make new contacts and catch up with existing ones. This

event is perfect for businesses looking to broaden their network contacts. Open to all businesses.

Norwich Economic Business Breakfast & AGM Where: OPEN, Norwich When: Wednesday 4 October 07:30 to 09:30 Join us for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast. Make new contacts and catch up with existing ones.

Shortly after the breakfast members have the opportunity to attend Norfolk Chamber’s Annual General Meeting. Members only event.

HR Forum HR Forum Where: Holiday Inn, Ipswich Rd, Norwich When: Wednesday, 13 September 14:00 to 17:00 Join the Norfolk Chamber for an afternoon of accessing specialist knowledge for any HR professional or business owner. Open to all businesses.

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

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Special Events Talking Technology 2017 Where: The Space, Norwich When: Wednesday 20th September, 08:30 to 14:00 Talking Tech is back for a seventh year! Join us for an interactive digital and technology conference, featuring presentations, workshops and seminars all geared towards building upon the digital skills of Norfolk’s business community and showcasing the community’s technical successes.

Open to all businesses.

B2B Exhibition 2017 Where: Norwich City Football Club, Norwich When: Thursday 12 October, 10:00 to 16:00 The B2B Exhibition is back for 2017 following our most successful event in 2016, hosting over 100 exhibitors and over 750 attendees! We want to continue building on this success in 2017.

You can book your stand today to be at the region’s premier business to business exhibition.

Open to all businesses. More on page 55.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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MemberNews ChamberEvents

New for this year: There are a range of exciting new sponsorship opportunities to help gain maximum exposure for your business.

Be part of B2B 2017.

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Stands are booking fast at the region’s premier business to business exhibition.

Last year’s event sold out with more than 100 exhibitors and 750 visitors and this year promises to be bigger than ever. Building on its continued success in developing Norfolk businesses year on year the B2B exhibition is an unmissable date of the region’s commercial calendar.

Stand bookings include: n Extensive brand exposure through profiling in EDP supplement

Date: Thursday 12 October 2017

Time: 10:00 to 16:00

n Flexibility to choose the stand size and placement

Venue: Norwich City Football Club

n Access to marketing toolkit

All welcome

n Exhibitor training and top tips

To book your stand visit norfolkchamber.co.uk/b2b

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Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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Expert, affordable courses and free training.

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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.

Google Analytics 07/07/2017 09:00 to 12:30 Mark Ellaway, Bigfork Google Analytics is more than just a reporting tool that provides you with traffic information from your website. This course will teach you how to use Google Analytics to measure the performance of your website and produce reports.

Search Engine Optimisation 18/07/2017 13:00 to 16:30 Sean Clark, Clark St James Google, the UK’s leading search engine has over 200 factors it considers when ranking a website. During this course you will learn how to implement an effective search strategy that maximises your chances of ranking for relevant terms in your market sector.

Essentials of Email Marketing 13/09/2017 13:00 to 16:30 Holly Stibbon, 101 Ltd Email marketing offers sophisticated opportunities to target messages to the right people at the right time and bring in business.

This course will arm you with the knowledge you need to create email campaigns that deliver measureable results.

Create Profitable Google Adwords Campaigns

Finance for non financial managers

26/09/2017 Full day

26/10/2017 09:00 to 12:30

Matt Brown, One Vision

Julian Hammond, TIPS for Good Management

Get more visitors to your website and more value from your pay-per-click spend with Google Adwords. This course will teach you how to maximise your advertising spend on Google Adwords and how to stop a wasted budget.

Improve your knowledge of financial techniques as a manager and become more confident about dealing with finance. This half day course aims to give you the basic knowledge about how financial controls work in a UK organisation.

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MemberNews ChamberEvents

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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.

Export Documentation 06/09/2017 09:00 to 16:30 Your company’s success in the field of exporting hinges upon the practical knowledge and expertise of the staff involved. This accredited course creates confidence and proficiency through clarifying and educating on any export documentation and teaches you how to produce documentation.

Customs Procedures and Documentation

of the course you will have a working knowledge on the UK trade tariff, the different duties payable and how to calculate them.

operations. This will involve simple tips for improving HMRC relationships and other tips to make sure the audit runs smoothly.

Preference Rules of Origin

Incoterms 2010

07/09/2017 13:00 to 16:30

04/10/2017 09:00 to 16:30

This course will benefit exporters/importers with accurate documentation and greater understanding of the rules of origin. By the end of this course you will understand the determining preference rules of origin and the percentage rule and how to apply it.

As international trade becomes increasingly more complex, universally used rules are essential to avoid misunderstandings and costly disputes. This course looks at the rules from a practical point of view and explains all the costs, delivery and risk implications and where to go for more help and information.

07/09/2017 09:00 to 12:30

Surviving a Customs Audit

The course highlights the company’s and the individual’s legal responsibilities when declaring cargo to HM Revenue and customs. By the end

28/09/2017 13:00 to 16:30 This course will cover what is likely to happen during a HMRC audit of your import and export

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

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Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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MemberNews New Head of Technical College at KLM UK Engineering.

Ray Flower has been appointed Head of Technical College of KLM UK Engineering Limited.

KLM UK Engineering is a whollyowned AFI KLM E&M subsidiary specialising in maintenance and training solutions for regional and narrow-body aircraft fleets.

Week of wellbeing for Freebridge Community Housing staff.

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Freebridge Community Housing employees enjoyed their sixth annual Week of Wellbeing. The week aimed to support the wellbeing of staff across the whole company and involved an array of activities.

Reflexology, creative writing, dance classes and meditation comprised just a small part of the list of events on offer. The week is designed to promote and support the six strands of wellbeing – Career, Physical, Mental, Social, Economic and Community Wellbeing – for its employee team of over 200 people.

While many of the week’s events were run by Freebridge employees a host of local organisations and businesses, including The Wellbeing People, Alive Leisure, The Engaging People Company, Paul Tibbs Photography, the Natural Therapy Centre and The Maltings Q Club were amongst those who provided expertise and facilities.

Local businesses generously donated prizes for a charity fundraising raffle. Proceeds will be going to East Anglian Air Ambulance, King’s Lynn Foodbank and West Norfolk RSPCA, who are all Freebridge chosen charities for 2017.

Tony Hall, Chief Executive of Freebridge, said: “Once again we have had a fantastic Week of Wellbeing at Freebridge. This week gives our employees the opportunity to gain news experiences that can have a positive impact on both their work and personal lives.”

Ready, set, go!

Thomson & First Choice have launched the first flight to Rhodes for Norwich airport for anyone taking a holiday to the destination for summer 2017.

The decision to introduce new routes is part of the holiday company’s plans to ensure customers across the UK can fly from their local airport and stay at the best hotels in some of the most enticing destinations.

Karen Switzer, Director of Aviation Planning for TUI UK & Ireland, said: “Introducing the new route to Rhodes is a key part of our strategy to enhance the holiday experience for our customers from Norwich and give them wider access to our exciting collection of destinations.”

Richard Pace, Managing Director of Norwich Airport, said: "We are delighted that Thomson and First Choice have launched a new route to Rhodes.

It demonstrates the holiday company’s commitment to the airport and provides even more choice to local people."

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Ray Flower started his career in 1979 and has carried out many aviation training roles within the industry over the past 30 years.

Ray’s latest roles include Head of Aviation at Kingston University & Chief Academic Officer (CAO) for Al Ain International Aviation Academy (AAIAA) in the UAE, Engineering Head at Qatar Aeronautical College & Head of Aeronautical Engineering at MTC Oman.

Ray said: “I am very proud to be returning to KLM UK Engineering Limited as Head of Technical College. With my previous experience with the company and the newly acquired knowledge over the past few years in the Middle East I will bring a valuable contribution to both KLMUKE and its students.

“Being part of the new International Aviation Academy – Norwich and helping to educate and inspire the next generation of aviation engineers is an exciting prospect and I look forward to the challenge ahead, as well as continuing to support the training of our current staff within the MRO.”

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

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

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Norfolk Chamber Business Support Through your membership to the Norfolk Chamber your business has access to a number of support services that are free as part of your membership.

Human Resources This gives your business access to HR support whenever you need it and as often as you need it.

The services provided to members falls into two categories.

Advice Line

HR Online Reference & Downloadable Documents

The ChamberHR advice line gives you access to qualified HR specialists at any time.

They are there to assist you with all stages of an employment lifecycle; from advice on recruitment such as contracts and employee handbooks all the way through to exit interviews.

With your Chamber membership you have access to a practical and easy to follow online reference manual in employment law and human resource. The website has a bank of over 550 downloadable documents which can be downloaded, edited, saved in your ‘My Account’ or in your own filing system.

For instance:

For instance:

n Is one of your employees constantly absent? n Do you have a discipline issue? n Have you a redundancy problem?

n Do you need a Contract of Employment template? n Do you need policies to add to your Employee Handbook? n Do you need to know how to deal with a disciplinary

How do you access this HR support?

To access your ChamberHR Advice line benefit simply call 01455 852037 confirming your company name or visit the Chamber website to access the document library

Legal & Tax This gives your business access to legal & tax advice and protection whenever you may need it.

The 24/7 Chamber Legal Advice Line is just a call away offering unlimited telephone-based advice to support you whenever you have a legal, employment, HR or tax query.

You also benefit from £1 million worth of legal expenses insurance to cover the cost of representing your business should you become embroiled in certain legal disputes.

Any business fortunate enough not to have been embroiled in a legal dispute can count themselves lucky. No matter how well you plan and manage your business you never know when you are going to face unexpected, expensive legal and professional fees.

In addition to the many employment related disputes businesses also find themselves having to defend Inland Revenue investigations and HSE prosecutions. Your business could also find itself involved in legal disputes relating to its property or with a Landlord.

This insurance covers: Employment Disputes, Employment Awards, Prosecution Defence, Tax, VAT, PAYE and NIC Investigations, License Protection, Data Protection Act, Property Legal Protection, Landlord Disputes. Jury Service Allowance

How do you access this Legal & Tax support?

When the legal issue first arises be sure to call the legal helpline on 01455 852037

Health and Safety – Coming August 2017 We know that creating a safe workplace for your employees and meeting your legal obligations are priorities for your business.

That’s why your Chamber membership comes with complimentary access to Chamber Health & Safety.

With unlimited access to telephone-based health and safety advice, and an extensive library of online health and safety resources, you’ll have everything covered.

NewMembers Agile Property Partners 01603 567804 www.a-pp.co.uk Property Investment

Arena Partnership Ltd 01603 813932 www.arenapartnership.co.uk Market Research

BP Partners 01603 456216 www.BPPartners.co.uk Business Services

CD2 Solutions Ltd 01603 920047 cd2solutions.co.uk Website Designers

“The big advantage of becoming a member of the Chamber is that you are joining a community of like-minded people. They have gone through similar experiences Huw Sayer to you, have the same aspirations and are prepared to share their knowledge. It is not just about selling; you are not just saying ‘buy, buy, buy.’ It is about helping each other and building lasting relationships.

Social media fits in well because, between face-to-face meetings at Chamber networking events, you can connect with people online. This helps you keep those relationships alive. We use Twitter for a number of reasons, including the fact that it has a large number of users from the Chamber community. We use LinkedIn because it allows you to take part in more detailed conversations with specific sector groups.”

Coffee Quest Ltd 01603 871652 www.coffeequest.co.uk Food & Drink

Creative Learning (Norwich) Ltd 01603 748001 Educational Service

G&D Transport Services LTD 07733 265119 www.gdtransportservices. co.uk Transport

Inspired Renewables 01493 751500 www.inspiredrenewables. co.uk Renewable Energy

Netmatters Ltd 01603 515007 www.netmatters.co.uk Website Designers

NJM Consulting PMO Limited 07475 121828 www.njm-consulting.com Consultants (Business/ Management)

Prosper HR Services 01603 217587 www.prosper-hrservices. co.uk Human Resources Consultants

Smart eLearning Limited 01493 855062 www.smart-el.co.uk Educational Service

Stirling Strategy Limited 07590 099955 www.stirlingstrategy.co.uk Consultants (Business/ Management)

Thrifty Car & Van Rental 01603 660160 www.thrifty.co.uk Car Hire

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Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

Riverside Business Centre 01603 665239 www.riverside-bc.co.uk Property Agents/Management

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Weekinthelifeof GoldPatronNews

MIGSOLV receive increased enquiries after NHS & BA cyber issues.

Gold Patron’s MIGSOLV have received a significant increase in local businesses contacting them following the NHS cyber-attack and British Airways’ IT failure.

The recent online attack on the NHS resulted in the cancellation of thousands of routine operations, whilst a global systems failure for British Airways’ left passengers stranded around the globe.

“The headlines have clearly made local businesses question their own resilience” reports David Manning, MIGSOLV’s Managing Director. “It’s pushed data security up their agenda as they consider how they would be affected in similar situations.”

MIGSOLV own The Gatehouse in Norwich, the regions only purposebuilt data centre. It houses business’s computer servers and IT equipment, protecting data from threats including theft, extreme weather, power cuts and terrorism.

“There are lessons to be learnt from the recent headlines” adds David. “Businesses need to ensure their protection is always up-todate and their IT equipment is in a carefully controlled environment.”

The NHS was struck by a so-called ‘ransom-ware’ virus affecting servers using Microsoft Windows XP software first released in 2001.

Recent updates had been provided to guard against such a threat but some hospitals had failed to download them.

The cause of British Airway’s system failure is less clear, though data security weaknesses were identified by the airline itself in a recent report. BA initially blamed a power surge then human error, whilst industry experts have suggested it was likely a number of factors.

“Local businesses have been contacting us worried about the consequences of their IT failing” reports David. “We have several layers of protection, plus back-up batteries, three huge generators and temperature & humidity control, to keep their equipment running dependably.”

With an ever-greater reliance on IT and data, ‘business resilience’ has become an increasingly important issue, with many regulatory and customer bodies putting pressure on businesses to respond. “It’s increasingly smaller businesses contacting us” concludes David. “They want to ensure they can deliver business as usual, whatever happens”.

More details of MIGSOLV can be found at migsolv.com or by contacting 01603 510323.

Philippa Bindley Events Manager at Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Monday I start each morning with a much needed cup of Green Tea and checking emails before our 9am Monday morning staff meeting where each member of staff gives an update on last week and what they have got planned for the week ahead.

Followed by this is the managers meeting, where we discuss the business plan and look at new initiatives and discuss the chamber’s cyber security measures – a hot topic for businesses.

The afternoon is taken up with compiling a strategy for corporate hospitality for the Royal Norfolk Show, sending out invitations and launching a members’ competition for two VIP tickets.

Tuesday Starting off the day with the events team meeting to discuss preparations for the upcoming Cyber Security Conference on Thursday. With large events it’s all hands on deck the week of the event to help make sure it is a success.

With plenty of printing, briefings, badges and packing equipment it is a whole team event.

Wednesday Each Wednesday we check the EDP Business Section, to see which chamber and member events have JULY/AUGUST 2017

been featured in the Diary Dates column.

The afternoon was mostly taken up with interviewing candidates for a position in the International Department and overseeing the last minute preparations for tomorrow’s conference.

Thursday It’s the day of the Cyber Security Conference. We are at the Space in Norwich and it is 7am. It is a busy morning getting set up, briefing speakers, welcoming exhibitors and greeting delegates as they arrive.

Finally the event is underway with interesting talks from expert guest speakers on cyber security and data protection. After everyone has left it is time to pack up and head to nearby Zaks Restaurant for a celebratory burger with the team.

Time to head back to the office to unpack and start the vital post event admin.

Friday Friday is finally here after a busy week, and the team are still revelling from the success of the conference yesterday. My colleague, Naomi and I set off in the car for a meeting with Wymondham High to discuss preparations for their careers event in July.

I finish off the day with writing a list of things to do ahead of the next week.

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MemberNews

Services and maintenance company going from strength to strength.

EYE FILM wins Best Promotional Programme at Royal Television Society East Awards.

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Eye Film won Best Promotional Programme at The Royal Television Society East Awards 2017 for their school film Leighton Park.

This is the first time the awards have been held since 2003, when Eye Film won Best Onscreen Personality for John Peel’s episode of the TV series ‘Going Home’.

With the whole Eye team present on the night, MD Charlie Gauvain accepted the award together with Max Knaapen who shot and edited the film.

Eye Film was also nominated for Best Factual Programme for Alderney: The Evacuation, which they produced with the help of a Crowdfunder campaign. A third film in the series, Alderney: The War Years is currently in production and will be ready for release later in the year.

Cloud Computer Services and CSS Computers announce their merger.

Great Yarmouth-based companies CSS Computers and Cloud Computing Services have announced their merger to become CSSCloud Computer Services.

RFT is a ‘systems thinking’ organisation which comprises a commitment to continuous improvement. This approach is embedded into everything the business does including service delivery - the reason for bringing the repairs and maintenance service in-house in 2013.

RFT won its first contract to provide repairs to Breckland Council in 2015, and when that recently expired, successfully bid for the new contract. RFT is also now working with The Salvation Army to provide maintenance services for their buildings across Norfolk and Suffolk.

“We pride ourselves on putting the customer at the centre of everything we do and making the right decision for the property. We understand the challenges our customers face and therefore tailor our services to suit their needs. “

The newly-formed CSSCloud Computer Services will have a pool of at least fourteen technicians with varying specialisms, currently supporting 220 servers.

Whilst the companies officially merge on July 1st, customers are not set to see any day-to-day changes until October when CSS Computers Ltd will leave its

RFT has partnered with Breckland Council and The Salvation Army to provide planned works and a responsive repairs and maintenance service for their buildings.

Ceri Theobald, Head of Commercial and Business Development at RFT, said: “I’m delighted to be able to announce the new deals and confident we will deliver an excellent service for these customers.

The two companies are big players in the local IT support industry and this merger creates one of the largest IT support companies in the region. Both businesses have been part of the IT support landscape for decades. CSS Computers Ltd has been owned and run by Peter Green for 28 years, whilst Cloud Computer services has been owned and run by Kevin Miller since 2009.

Peter Green of CSS Computers on North Quay, Great Yarmouth said: “As a result of this merger we have a significant resource pool that will allow us to target larger clients in the future whilst continuing to support our existing customers. The merger will undoubtedly provide new local jobs and create another Great Yarmouth success story.”

It was a case of two new repairs and maintenance customers in a matter of weeks for RFT Services (Flagship Group’s in-house repairs and maintenance service) as the company continues to set its sights on commercial growth.

premises on North Quay and join Cloud Computer Services at Nimbus House on the Gapton Hall Industrial Estate.

Kevin from Cloud Computer Services said: “With both companies sharing the same ethos and competing in such close proximity, it felt logical to join forces. By combining our resources we’re able to offer support at greater scale than before.”

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Ralph Burton, Strategic Property Manager for Breckland Council, said: “We already have a good, strong relationship with RFT, and because the company is based in Dereham they know the district, they know our property portfolio and understand our needs and requirements.”

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Organic growth 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 through its policy of organic growth.

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

Today, having continued to deliver impressive, sustainable industryleading growth which is amongst the most impressive in the region, that figure is over 3,000. The company employs almost 10,000 people across the UK. Norse, whose headquarters is still in Norwich, is now a £190m, UKwide major player in facilities management, contract services and local authority partnerships, bringing vital income and local supplier expenditure to the area.

Having delivered an additional £20m of sales in 2016/17, Norse is now an established name across the country, thanks to a proven reputation for cost efficiency, value and innovative service delivery. Today the

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

group operates 15 joint venture company subsidiaries with local authority partners, and returned around £90m to public funds over the last 5 years.

Within Norfolk, Norse boasts a number of prestigious clients including the Norwich Research Park, University of East Anglia, Archant, and Norfolk County and Norwich City Councils, as well as numerous small and medium sized private sector organisations that are part of the local business infrastructure.

Managing Director Dean Wetteland puts the company’s impressive results down to its focus on organic growth rather than acquisition.

“We have concentrated on building on our proven business model, developing partnerships with local authorities around the country.

This is far more profitable and stable than the higher-risk acquisition approach to growth. Organic expansion has also delivered high client retention, meaning that the growth is sustainable and employment is secure. We don’t rule out acquisitions in the future, but for now the organic route is the core strategy.”

The ethos certainly seems to work as Norse is set for another record year in 2017/18. The company’s impressive growth, a quadrupling of turnover in the last 10 years, 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.

Wetteland says 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. 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.”

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