Business Eye August September 2022 by Buckley Publications

Features: Danske60 Bank Business Eye Profit 200 3636Ellvena GrahamExperienced Chair Takes Over At Tourism NI Strategic46 PowerThe Right Offering At The Right Time Electric & Hybrid vehicles can bring a lot of benefits to your business. Find out more about our fleetfinancial.co.uk/emotiveoffering... emotive Paddy Doody & Henderson Group Squaring Up To The Challenges 200 Issue Aug/Sept217 2022 £2.50 Voted best Business Magazine in Ireland 2005 and Magazine of the Year for Northern Ireland

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In a first for Northern Ireland, local developer Mayfair Group, led by Victoria Patterson has achieved property sales of £5 million directly through social media channels. It’s believed to be the first time this has occurred in the local residential property market.

With demand for online services continuing to increase, the role that Openreach Northern Ireland (NI) plays in keeping people and businesses connected has never been more important.

While most companies are fearing the worst from the current energy price crisis, one local organisation looks as though it’s in the right place at the right time. Strategic Power supplies and installs solar power and battery storage systems for local companies.

Photography Press Eye 45 Stockmans Way Belfast, BT9 7ET Tel: (028) 9066 www.presseye.com9229

12 Belfast Distillery Company Invests In Visitor Centre Economy Minister Gordon Lyons, Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey and Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd have visited Belfast Distillery Company at Crumlin Road Gaol to welcome the company’s £22.3million investment.

When global financial services company Citi established its small outpost in Belfast in 2005, the phrase ‘levelling up’ had not yet entered the UK business or political vernacular. But, through the growth of its team from an initial 375 to a projeced 3,700 by the end of this year, it’s shown how big financial services operations can thrive in regional economies.

Strategic Power – The Right Offering At The Right Time

18 Local Developer Disrupts The Property Market

Editor Richard Buckley Commercial Director Brenda Buckley Design Tel:McCadden(028)9024 www.mccadden.co.uk2228

26 Full Fibre Technology – Opening Up New Business Opportunities

The True Measure Of Success: Measuring What Matters

For so many of us, the ‘norms’ of business life pre-Brexit and pre-pandemic seem like a distant memory, so why then do we still evaluate our performance based on the old norms? Is there more to success than the bottom line? Nigel Harra & Laura Jackson of BDO Belfast take a closer look.

61 The Danske Bank Business Eye Profit 200

Buckley Publications 20 Kings Road Belfast, BT5 6JJ Tel: (028) 9047 4490 Fax: (028) 9047 www.businesseye.co.uk4495

Pinnacle Growth Group –Home-Grown Firm Helps NI, GB & International Clients

The definitive listing of Northern Ireland’s top performing private sector organisations, ranked by the only measure that really matters, profit. For the first time, the 2022 listing reflects corporate performance during the Covid era.

Aug/Sept 2022 ISSUE 216 Contents

Citi Belfast Success – A Case Study In Levelling Up

In his foreword to the 2022 Business Eye Profit 200, Danske Bank’s Managing Director of Corporate & Business Banking, Shaun McAnee, takes a look at the economic headwinds facing the local economy.

Paddy Doody is well aware that plenty of challenges lie ahead on the horizon. But, with the Henderson Group coming off the back of a strong pandemic performance and some favourable trends, the Group’s Sales & Marketing Director is confident that one of our largest private sector companies has the strength to survive and prosper.

The fast growing Lisburn-based consultancy firm has established a reputation for itself well beyond Northern Ireland, and it has ambitious growth plans for the future.

20 Paddy Doody & Henderson Group – Squaring Up To The Challenges

NI Companies Resilient In Face Of Ongoing Challenges

The biggest, most pressing, most urgent issue facing almost every business here is rising costs, particularly rising energy costs. And, as at least one energy expert tells us in this edition, there’s no prospects of the rise being halted and reversed any time soon.

“Some businesses are being hit harder than others. Hospitality is a good case in point, and the industry has been crying for help almost every day over recent weeks. But no one appears to be listening.”

Can Liz Truss (or Rishi Sunak...but at the time of writing that seemed unlikely) do anything.

It looks very much as though it’s a case of every man for himself as we head into the autumn and winter months. And, of course, there’s some sense to the argument that says that central government can’t come to the aid of everyone in every crisis, as it did with the pandemic. It would be good to have a local Executive in place, if only to argue our regional case. It would be good to have some financial aid for energy costs, as looks likely. But what would be best would be if Liz Truss settled into Downing Street and wasn’t tempted to meddle in Northern Ireland matters by scrapping the Protocol and prodding the Europeans with a sharp stick. Business in Northern Ireland is happy enough with a tweaked version of the deal we already have, Liz. So don’t use us as a handy political football.

As we leave the Covid era behind and wrap up what’s been a peaceful summer for Northern Ireland, it’s a bit of an understatement to say that local companies and our local economy face any number of challenges.

Short of abandoning the Ukrainians, flying to Moscow and making up with President Putin, that seems unlikely. Apart, that is, from applying a few sticking plasters here and there.

Unfortunately, by the time the DUP deigns itself sufficient satisfied to get off its collective backside and back to government, it will be too late for some. Hospitality businesses, and some smaller retailers, will have gone to the wall.

The Executive simply isn’t missed as much as some would have us believe that it is.

The lack of a working Executive here is another problem although, again, it’s not the biggest obstacle on the economic horizon.

Richard Buckley EDITOR Irish Magazine Editor of the Year 2005 Some of our politicians might delude themselves that the NI Protocol is the biggest challenge facing companies here. It most definitely isn’t and only the party member stooges from around business here would say otherwise. In fact, as many of us will say until we’re blue in the face, the protocol presents real opportunities played the right way. Opportunties that could give Northern Ireland a real edge. But, by the time many of you read this, Liz Truss is likely to Prime Minister and the scrapping of the Protocol and almost certain trade war with Europe beckons. What a prospect that is.

Some businesses are being hit harder than others. Hospitality is a good case in point, and the industry has been crying for help almost every day over recent weeks. But no one appears to be listening.

Hospitality was one of the hardest hit sectors during Covid and it’s still recovering from the pandemic. It faces major staff and recruitment issues as a direct result of lockdowns and closures. It’s also had its levels of VAT ratcheted back up to normal levels following a tax break offered during the Covid crisis. Now, the energy bills being slapped on restaurants, hotels and the like are nothing short of eye-watering.

Spiralling energy costs impact on every business and lead, of course, to increased costs being passed on to the customers of every business. Hence the major concerns over an inflation rate that’s gathering pace.

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BELFAST’S SIGNATURE SETTING. MAKE STATEMENT A ENQUIRE NOW ABOUT EVENT AND VENUE HIRE AT TITANIC BELFAST VIA ENQUIRIES@TITANICBELFAST.COM TITANICBELFAST.COM TITANIC AT

The INVENT 2022 Awards Night will take place on 1st September at the ICC Waterfront Belfast. The event will see innovators across Northern Ireland be recognised for their work, will showcase the ten INVENT 2022 finalists and unveil the INVENT 2022 overall winner. Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.invent22.co/awards

“When I first established Seating Matters in response to a lack of appropriate seating in local care homes, I never imagined our business would grow to where it is today. We now supply our chairs across the UK and Ireland, Australia, USA, Canada and other parts of Europe. We have aggressive growth plans where we will supply our chairs to many new territories globally in the next five years, allowing us to help more people.

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Throughout her 30-year career working with patients, Martina discovered the profound effects that unsafe seating could have on patient outcomes. In response to a lack of appropriate seating in care homes in her local community, Martina established Seating Matters in 2008. Martina designed the first therapeutic chairs to meet the complex needs and pressure injuries of her individual patients. Research has shown that appropriate seating improves respiration, digestion, posture, reduces pressure injuries and improves a patient’s overall quality of life.

Pictured at Seating Matters HQ in Limavady, Meg Magill, INVENT Programme Manager, Catalyst; Martina Tierney, Clinical Director at Seating Matters; Elaine Smyth, Head of Innovation Community, Catalyst and Mark Cunningham, Head of Regional Business Centres, Bank of Ireland UK.

Business Leader Martina Tierney Wins Catalyst Impact Award 2022

“Our goal is to improve millions of lives every year through our products and global partnerships. It is recognition like this which will help us to improve the lives of many more people in the future. I look forward to celebrating this achievement with everyone at INVENT this September.”

Speaking about her achievement, Martina Tierney, Clinical Director at Seating Matters said: “It is an honour to be recognised by the local community and the INVENT panel for my work with Seating Matters, designing chairs to meet the complex needs of patients with disabilities and issues with mobility. I am so glad that more people can now see the importance that good seating has on a person’s health and wellbeing.

Occupational therapist Martina Tierney from Limavady has been named the Catalyst Impact Award Winner 2022 for her exceptional work with Seating Matters, designing therapeutic chairs to meet the wide-ranging needs of patients with disabilities.

Martina’s work with Seating Matters has been recognised by an expert panel of judges, making her the first ever recipient of the prestigious award.

he brand new Catalyst Impact Award is a part of Catalyst’s annual innovation competition, INVENT 2022. It recognises an inspirational business leader who has significantly contributed to Northern Ireland by creating positive and inclusive economic and social impact from innovation.

Lauren Kinghan has been awarded the Chartered Institute of Taxation’s KPMG Pat Cullinan Memorial Medal. The award is given to the Northern Ireland candidate who achieved the highest marks in the Chartered Institute of Taxation final exams. Lauren is a Tax Manager at KPMG and studied at Queen’s University Belfast.

Pat Cullinan, a native of Co. Tyrone and a Tax Partner with accountancy firm KPMG, was killed in the tragic air accident, which also claimed five other lives, at Cork Airport on 10 February 2011.

Pictured at KPMG’s Soloist building in Belfast are, from left, Pat’s brother Aidan Cullinan, Lauren Kinghan and Johnny Hanna, Partner in Charge and Head of Tax at KPMG in Northern Ireland. Tax Manager

The results of UK’s Best Workplaces™ for Women list are based on what women themselves have anonymously reported to Great Place to Work® about their workplace experience and how well represented they are in the workforce and management.

Sarah Balmforth, Director of Human Resoures, Hughes Insurance

Top Award For KPMG

Hughes Insurance has been ranked among the UK’s Best Workplaces™ for Women (2022) by Great Place to Work®, the global authority on workplace culture. The insurance broker, which employs over 250 people across Northern Ireland, ranked 12th on the UK-wide list.

Juan Miguel Estallo, CEO of Liberty Seguros, parent company of Hughes Insurance said: “This award confirms that we are on the right track in our ongoing work to make our company a diverse and equitable one. At Liberty we live by our values of “Putting People First” and “Making things Better” and so we are proud to have this recognised by Great Place to Work®. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a key part of the company’s strategy and this involves genuine and visible engagement of the Executive Team as well as managers and all employees across the organisation.” Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, they have surveyed more than 100 million employees around the world and used those deep insights to define what makes a great workplace.

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Sarah Balmforth, Director of Human Resources at Hughes Insurance, said: “We are proud of our rich and diverse team, and that females are well-represented within our workforce and our leadership team. We never assume that we are truly an inclusive company and are constantly reviewing our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) efforts to ensure we are meeting the evolving needs of all of our employees, and fostering an environment where everyone can be at their best, both professionally and personally.” 69 per cent of Hughes Insurance staff are female. In addition, its senior management team has a female majority with 73 per cent of members women, a rate well above the average.

Recent research as part of the annual Female FTSE Board report, conducted by Cranfield University’s School of Management to measure of the number of women executive directors on the corporate boards of the UK’s top companies, has found that only 31 women hold executive roles in just 27 companies. Only eight are CEOs and only 15 are CFOs or finance directors.

Benedict Gautrey, Managing Director of Great Place to Work® UK, said: “Now in its fifth year, our 2022 list showcases the largest collection of Best WorkplacesTM for Women that the UK has ever recognised. These results are based on what women themselves have anonymously reported to us about their workplace experience and how well represented they are in the workforce and management. Ensuring people aren’t discriminated against, placing positive value on our differences, creating fair access and advancement for all, and fostering a sense of value and empowerment in employees is what being a Great Place to Work® is all about. “Only by first identifying the gaps in workers’ experiences can organisations truly take action to close them, which is why analysing employee experience is important. We are proud that the data and insights we provide organisations helps on that continuous journey - and it’s wonderful to celebrate so many Best Workplaces™ for Women this year, across all sectors and organisational sizes.”

HUGHES INSURANCE NAMED BEST WORKPLACE FOR WOMEN

Developed with a view to hosting colourful gigs, sessions, drama and theatre shows the focal point of the courtyard will be elevated to provide customers with a unique experience with the venue surrounded by refectory style table and benches adding to the bespoke ambience.

The Clover Group has also confirmed that it will be opening another new venue, White’s Beer Hall located in High Street in September.

Kathy Simpson, Head of HR Business Partnership said: “One Step at a Time was a fantastic initiative which not only encouraged colleagues to get active and improve health and wellbeing, but also to raise money for two very worthwhile causes. Supporting our charity partners, particularly during these uncertain times when they really need our help, is very important to us so we are delighted to have raised these funds.” Lucy McCusker, Action Cancer Corporate Fundraising Manager continued: “We’d like to thank SuperValu and Centra for their continued support which helps us provide our vital prevention and life-saving services onboard our mobile clinic the Big Bus.

Clover Group announces two major Belfast City Centre developments

The Clover Group NI, which currently operates eight leading Belfast bars has announced that it is investing £1.4m on two significant and innovative new venues which are set to support the hospitality trade and footfall within the city centre.

8 Eye on News Musgrave NI employees have raised £14,236 for their charity partners after embarking on a challenge to walk 800km per team.

Musgrave Group Head of HR Business Partnership Kathy Simpson (right), and HR Business Partner Demi Ledley (left) are joined by NICHS Corporate Fundraiser Steph Ellis (second left) and Action Cancer Corporate Fundraiser Lucy McCusker and following the One Step at a Time fundraising initiative.

The projects, which will create a total of 50 new jobs, will see the development of a hip new hotel in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter and a new cutting-edge venue which will be an extension of the popular cocktail bar Margot’s. Located adjacent to Belfast City Hall, ‘Brat’ will provide a late-night dimension to Margot’s underground vibe bringing together an eclectic clientele with a quality food and music offering.

Musgrave, which owns or operates the SuperValu, Centra and Mace convenience retail brands in NI, as well as Musgrave MarketPlace and Drinks Inc wholesale brands, saw over 300 colleagues put on their walking shoes and travel a combined distance of 20,000 km. The challenge aimed to raise vital funds for Musgrave’s long-term charity partners Action Cancer and Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke, as well as improve health and wellbeing.

The new hotel will be located in Little Donegall Street and will see the Clover Group working with F&B Creatives O’Donnell O’Neill Design to craft a unique amphitheatrical development extending over three levels.

Commenting on the two developments, Mark Beirne, Director of Clover Group NI said, “The vision across all our outlets has always been to provide unique, exciting and new experiences for our customers here in Belfast and those that are visiting our great city. Both Brat and our creative new hotel project will add new vibrant, hip and urban offerings that will appeal to broad range of people who are looking for the best fun and craic that Belfast and the Cathedral Quarter has to offer.

MUSGRAVE NI WALKS THE DISTANCE TO RAISE OVER £14K FOR CHARITY

Destined to be an important hospitality hub for both locals and tourists alike, the hotel will consist of 23 self-contained Pod Hotel Rooms and it will exclusively feature Market Food Kitchens, bars and tiered seating terraces overlooking an al fresco dining courtyard with stretched sail cloth awnings overhead.

Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke Corporate Fundraiser, Steph Ellis, added: “We are so grateful for the ongoing generosity of Musgrave Marketplace and Mace, their staff and customers who, over the years, have ensured that thousands of people affected by chest, heart or stroke related illnesses have received the support and care that they deserve.

We are confident that these new venues will not only be dynamic new dimensions to the city’s night life but they will also be a significant draw for people outside these shores who are looking for unique cosmopolitan experiences, with a distinctly Belfast twist.”

Last year almost 3,000 local people availed of a critical health check or mammogram for the detection of breast cancer on the Big Bus, and the funds that continue to be raised make a crucial contribution to the lives of so many people in Northern Ireland.”

“Currently, over 335,000 people across Northern Ireland are living with chest, heart or stroke conditions - that’s almost 1 in 5 of us. 90% of our care and prevention services and research projects are funded exclusively by donations. The funds raised by Musgrave Marketplace, Mace and Drinks Inc through the One Step at a Time campaign will help us continue to deliver life-changing programmes and support local people affected by chest, heart and stroke illnesses to rebuild their lives.”

Its Radius Connect provides mobile, fixed line and cloud services based on solutions from industry-leading providers such as Microsoft, Vodafone, O2, EE, NFON and Gamma, counting CBRE, Deli Lites, UPU Industries, Shelbourne Motors and John Minnis Estate Agents are also among its top-tier clients.

Earlier this year, Radius Connect booked in with Hastings Hotel Group to provide enhanced mobile telecommunications to staff right across its Northern Ireland property estate. A client of Radius Connect for more than a decade, the Hastings Hotels team took delivery of a new fleet of handsets, bolt-on data sharing and cost-saving international roaming to keep everyone continuously connected as part of a ‘wrap-around’ customer care package.

In March, the company announced an investment of £1m with the launch of a new specialist renewables company, Parr Renewables. Creating over 20 new jobs, Parr Renewables collaborates with colleagues across its teams to deliver tailored sustainable energy solutions.

“Working with Radius, we’ve introduced a range of significant tools that has enabled us to work better, faster and at maximum productivity to ensure that we continually deliver for our clients on time and on budget. I’m delighted with the transformation we’ve made in just a few months and the difference our investment in Radius has made to our company and the wider team.”

And the new hub also acts as a catalyst for further expansion across the island, complementing existing offices in Dublin, Derry-Londonderry and Galway.

Part of Sunday Times’ Top Track 100 companies, Radius, which has more than 40,000 customers in Ireland in telecoms, fuel cards and telematics, owns DCI, the island’s largest fuel card business which last year celebrated its 25th anniversary.

Parr FM is one of Northern Ireland’s most successful FM companies with a stellar roster of major clients including BOC, GLL, Triangle Housing, NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS), Co-op, Lidl, and Boots. The mechanical and electrical services specialist which recently opened a new Glasgow hub as part of its growth ambitions has partnered with leading business solutions company Radius to help maintain its growth momentum.

Stephen McQuoid is Regional Director, Ireland, Radius Connect. Radius Connect is rapidly becoming a leader in business telecoms in the UK and Ireland. For more information on Radius Connect and the wider family group of Radius businesses, www.radiusconnectsolutions.comvisit

Parr Facilities Management ups the ante for growth with Radius

Our success is built on the partnerships we develop with our clients, and we are delighted to be supporting Parr FM in its nationwide strategy for growth.

Based in Crewe in England with offices in 18 countries, Radius says it is “actively pursuing an international diversification strategy” to provide customers with a range of business services across telecoms, electric vehicle charge points, telematics, insurance and fuel cards.

Eye on Cloud Communications

From telecoms to telematics, Radius has been helping Parr FM to connect its teams seamlessly and digitally in every region, improving turnaround times, productivity, cost management and project success.

Under the stewardship of Radius’ telecoms arm Radius Connect, Parr FM, which has more than 200 staff in offices in Belfast, Manchester, Dublin and Glasgow, is transforming its telecoms infrastructure, adding more mobile and cloud-based assets to support its growing remote-working teams. Committed to paperless working and more streamlined reporting, Parr has more than 210 mobile phones in use as part of a top-tech upgrade which includes the installation of a cloud-based hosted phone system that provides the flexibility and security required to support its dynamic business needs.

A company with a fleet of more than 130 vehicles on the road in every region, Parr has also just installed specialist GPS telematics, delivered by Radius Telematics, allowing it to keep track and improve efficiencies among its mobile teams and which complements the introduction of a dedicated fuel card system provided by Radius to manage fuel consumption and cost. Parr Facilities Management managing director, John Warren, said: “In a fast-changing business and economic landscape where we manage multiple, concurrent projects in all jurisdictions, we are acutely focused on investing in the best technology to ensure that we maintain our dynamism, responsiveness, and competitive edge to support our growing client base.

“As one of Northern Ireland’s experienced, focused companies, we wish John and all the team continued success as we reaffirm our commitment to assisting in delivering its plans and ambitions.”

Stephen McQuoid, Ireland Director at Radius Connect, said: “With a diverse, award-winning portfolio of business solutions designed to deliver growth and capacity and help drive innovation, Radius is recognised and trusted for providing an outstanding customer experience.

Last year, Radius Connect relocated to a new state-of-the-art grade A office in Belfast’s Clarendon Dock as part of a multi-million-pound investment which brings together its fuel card, telecoms and telematics divisions in a move integral to the integration of its businesses across the UK and Ireland.

Radius Connect’s Stephen McQuoid with John Warren, Parr Facilities Management

Leading building services, fit-out, and facilities management firm Parr Facilities Management is driving new growth opportunities across the UK and Ireland following a major digital business transformation designed to enable its continued plans for expansion.

Currently undergoing a £600,000 transformation, the Dairy Farm store in Dunmurry will be the next revitalised store to re-launch, closely followed in September by Portglenone, which is receiving a £720,000 makeover and Omagh, which will launch later in the year following an investment of £730,000. Aligning with Musgrave NI’s sustainability commitments, the stores, which are part of the Group’s company-owned portfolio, are powered using green electricity and feature digital screens, energy efficient LED lighting and topgrade energy efficient refrigeration systems as Musgrave works to achieve its net zero ambition by 2040. In addition, the introduction of electronic shelf edge labels to the stores will save a combined total of 28,000 sheets of paper per year.

The revitalised store also now has a one-of-a-kind off-licence stocking premium wine, beer and spirits as well as a dedicated ‘Zero Zone’ with a wide range of alcohol-free drinks options.

Steve and Dave Flynn from The Happy Pear with Caroline Rowan, Head of Retail Operations at Musgrave Northern Ireland at the launch of the newly revitalised SuperValu Portstewart store. Musgrave Northern Ireland has announced that the business has invested £3.2million in the rejuvenation of four SuperValu stores across Northern Ireland.

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Caroline Rowan, Head of Retail Operations at Musgrave Northern Ireland said: “Our rejuvenated SuperValu stores are truly stores of the future. In addition to the £2.7million sustainability fund Musgrave NI has committed to empower SuperValu and Centra retailers to become net zero by 2040, we have also invested £850,000 in energy saving materials across these four rejuvenated SuperValu stores, making them as efficient and green as possible.”

With increasing consumer focus on shopping local and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, customers can expect an extended range of fresh, local produce in each of the new stores at great prices. Working with more than 3,000 local farmers and in partnership with over 150 local suppliers, Musgrave NI is committed to supporting the local supplier network across all its stores, buying £160m worth of local food and drink annually.

SUPERVALU

MUSGRAVE INVESTS OVER £3M IN STORES OF THE FUTURE

The first of the four companyowned stores launched recently in Portstewart to great fanfare with local celebrity home cook, Suzie Lee, and Dave and Steve Flynn from The Happy Pear in attendance. Creating six additional jobs in the local area, Musgrave invested £1.1million in the store which boasts a new hot and cold deli counter, a Moo’d Ice Cream bar and expanded in-store bakery.

Caroline “Offeringadded,ourcustomers value for money with a choice of local, own label and big brand products is a priority for Musgrave. Built with the community at their heart, each SuperValu store will offer the same great value to customers with offers on over 200 big brands every week and over 400 cheaper own brand products, up to 33% cheaper than the better-known brands. And with more than 500 of our branded products pricechecked against Tesco, we aim to deliver the best value for our customers across our entire range.”

The 16th Belfast Mela Festival, sponsored by Sensata Technologies attracted more than 60,000 people over its new eight-day format this year, culminating in its spectacular return to Botanic Gardens for Mela Day on Sunday (28 August) to celebrate Belfast’s growing cultural diversity.

“It was an ambitious plan to move to an eight-day festival this year but I am delighted that more than 60,000 people turned out across an exciting series of events this week culminating in our spectacular finale back at Botanic. “So many different communities have made Northern Ireland their home and it has never been more important to embrace the individuality and cultural heritage of each citizen and find strength in our diversity. Let’s continue to celebrate everything that is good about our city and its people and we look forward to bringing you another cultural extravaganza of global music, dance, food, theatre and arts in 2023.”

ArtsEkta the organisers of the Belfast Mela will be planting a tree for every paid attendee to Mela Day this year as part of its commitment to improve its eco-friendly strategy and overall sustainability entitled Green Mela.

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Nisha Tandon, Founder of Belfast Mela and Director of ArtsEkta said: “This has been our most successful Belfast Mela Festival yet and we have been delighted to welcome so many people back to Botanic Gardens on Sunday after a two year break due to the pandemic.

forBotanicreturnSpectaculartoGardensBelfastMela

This project is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund under the Investment for Growth and Jobs Northern Ireland (2014-2020) Programme.

Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd said: “The historic Crumlin Road Gaol setting will enhance this regeneration project and help to maximise its economic, social and environmental benefits to the local and wider community. I welcome the ambition of this project, the expectation that the Distillery will help create jobs in north Belfast and bring more tourists into the area, and that it will play a key role in the regeneration of a significant historic building in Belfast.”

Belfast Distillery Company invests £22m in new J&J McConnell’s Distillery and Visitor Centre

Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey said: “My Department, through its Urban Development Grant programme, is providing muchneeded investment in north Belfast with grant funding of £656,000 for the Belfast Distillery. The project will deliver economic, social and environmental improvements as well as creating jobs and boosting tourism in the area.”

The support we have received from across government has been vital to making this ambition a reality for us. We are truly delighted to be developing our distillery in north Belfast and look forward to working with and supporting our local community with employment opportunities. We look forward to helping our great city grow and develop in the years ahead.”

Economy Minister Gordon Lyons, Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey and Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd have visited Belfast Distillery Company at Crumlin Road Gaol to welcome the company’s £22.3million investment.

The Department for Infrastructure has provided Belfast Distillery Company with the lease to develop its distillery within the historic Grade A listed building.

The distillery will extend over three floors offering 1,000 sq. m. of distilling floor-space and 1,700 sq. m. for the visitor centre, with plans to host over 100,000 visitors each year. Visitor experiences will include whiskey tours, cocktail masterclasses, a tasting bar and shop. Job opportunities are available at various levels across sales, marketing, operations, hospitality and finance.

In our home market, we are having great success with our product to date, experiencing significant support from our trade partners in hospitality and retail sectors. “The J&J McConnell’s Distillery and Visitor Experience will become the home of our brand and will help us to take our business to the next level in the global whiskey market.

John Kelly, CEO of Belfast Distillery Company, said: “We launched McConnell’s Irish Whisky in 2020 and we have already achieved significant success in the US, Canada, Europe, Australia and China.

“The global Irish whiskey industry has trebled in size over the last decade, and Belfast Distillery Company is already a great addition to the sector. The J&J McConnell’s Distillery and Visitor Experience will boost our economy as both an export business and a tourism offering. I look forward to following its continued growth to becoming a globally recognised brand in the international spirits sector.” The Department for Communities and Invest Northern Ireland have provided a combined £1.9million of support towards the project.

12 Eye on News The major investment includes plans to regenerate the A Wing of the Crumlin Road Gaol into the J&J McConnell’s Distillery and world-class visitor experience, and to create 49 new jobs.

Making the joint announcement, Economy Minister Gordon Lyons said: “This multi-million pound investment will see the transformation of this historic Belfast building and create 49 new jobs, contributing over £1.7million of additional annual salaries into the local economy.

WithSustainabilityTwoAwards

Denise Kennedy, Titanic Belfast’s Head of Operations and Chair of the internal Sustainability Action Team said: “We are very proud to be the first organisation on the island of Ireland to receive Silver Awards for both Green Tourism and Green Meetings. At Titanic Belfast, we have been committed to sustainability from our initial conception as a BREEAM Excellent rated building and throughout the last ten years with the implementation of lots of strong initiatives and policies. This most recently includes the introduction of our Sustainability Charter, which has been developed by a working group of employees with representatives from across all levels of the business, and outlines our Vision, Mission and Goals.

The Silver Awards are in recognition of the extensive sustainability initiatives and policies the world leading visitor attraction has put in place which includes a number of ambitious goals including committing to reducing energy consumption by five per cent by 2030, removing all single-use plastic items by 2025 and aiming to become a zerowaste organisation by 2030.

14 Green Tourism promotes greener ways for businesses and organisations to operate and the awards certification programme recognises the commitment of tourism businesses which are actively working to become more sustainable. The Green Meetings accreditation has recently been introduced as a new standard specific to meetings and events venues. According to the Green Tourism report, the world leading visitor attraction has ‘displayed an excellent understanding of sustainability and awareness of opportunities and challenges associated with running a responsible business’ and has demonstrated ‘excellent examples of good practice such as rainwater harvesting, the combined heat and power system and a more sustainable events delegates pack’.

Visit Belfast’s Chief Executive Gerry Lennon said: “It’s brilliant to see Titanic Belfast leading the way and becoming the first business on the island of Ireland to receive silver accreditation for both Green Tourism and Green Meetings.

Titanic Belfast undertook the process as part of a city-wide sustainable Green Tourism partnership funded by Belfast City Council and delivered by Visit Belfast.

These awards demonstrate our commitment to driving forward our sustainability practices to achieve our key sustainable goals and to support this within the wider destination. We are on a journey to become as sustainable as possible and whilst we are making big strides in doing so, we look forward to continuing to work hard to create a positive impact, support our local communities and drive economic regrowth whilst protecting our environment and the Titanic legacy.”

Titanic Belfast has become the first organisation on the island of Ireland to receive Silver Awards for the Green Tourism and Green Meetings accreditations.

For further information on Titanic Belfast’s Sustainability Charter go to titanicbelfast.com/sustainabilitywww.

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This recognition rewards their commitment to sustainable tourism in Belfast and their efforts to reduce their environmental impact on the wider planet. Sustainability continues to shape the future of business events and tourism, both of which play a crucial role in supporting the city-vision of transitioning to an inclusive, zero-emissions, and climate resilient economy within a generation. Congratulations and well done to all at Titanic Belfast for securing the dual award.”

Victoria has focused on promoting the Group’s newest developments on social platforms like Instagram and Facebook. This has proven extremely popular with homebuyers, as all properties in the latest release of their Moira One and Thorburn Gate developments reached sale agreed entirely online within minutes.

In a first for Northern Ireland, local developer Mayfair group, led by Victoria Patterson has achieved property sales of £5 million directly through social media channels.

Victoria has also just announced Mayfair Group’s latest feature which allows buyers to choose and upgrade the kitchen and bathrooms for their new home using an online simulator.

Although Mayfair Group continues to work with estate agents and their properties are available through well-known sales platforms such as PropertyPal, the innovative strategy represents a departure from how homes for sale in Northern Ireland have traditionally been marketed.

“We have more exciting announcements coming up on our social media channels throughout the rest of this year and we’re looking forward to engaging directly with customers and future Mayfair Group homeowners as we turn their dreams into reality with just a few clicks of a button.

With a simplified, end-toend offering, Mayfair Group is disrupting the market and revolutionising how new homes are bought in Northern Ireland.

“Our social media engagement is backed up by our streamlined, online financial qualification and reservation process, which is very attractive to buyers.

Victoria’s social media promotion is supported by ‘Mayfair Residential’, the company’s in-house estate agency that allows applicants to get financially qualified online in a streamlined, three-step process online before reserving their new home. Mayfair Residential can also provide mortgages, through independent third parties, including a green mortgage that rewards sustainable living.

Victoria believes it marks the beginning of a fundamental and needed shift in the property market: “Achieving £5 million sales via social media in such a short space of time is beyond our expectations and I believe this is just the beginning of a fundamental change in how people expect to buy their homes.

Victoria’s Instagram account, @ designbymayfair, has a growing following of over 25,000, where she shares insights into development projects whilst also providing interior, style and décor advice under the ‘Design by Mayfair’ brand. This led to her identifying the opportunity for Mayfair Group to connect directly with homebuyers online.

“This entire approach is designed with homebuyers in mind. It makes purchasing a Mayfair Group property easy and stress free, and you end up with a beautiful, high quality new home.

“We’re disrupting the market and that’s good news for the public and everyone who wants to buy a home.

“We could see there was an opportunity to create a more direct relationship with our customers online, so we invested heavily and have created a unique offering.

Eye on News Mayfair SocialSecured£5MarketNIDisruptingGroupPropertywithMillionSalesViaMedia

Victoria Patterson, Partner, Mayfair Group

Awards Located

Titanic Hotel Belfast Your Future Venue next event a memorable one by hosting it at Titanic Hotel Belfast, four times winner of Ireland’s Leading Hotel’ at the World Travel in the former headquarters of Harland & Wol where the world famous RMS Titanic was designed and built, the hotel is home to seven private heritage meeting rooms of varying sizes, including the awe-inspiring Drawing O ce One with views of the iconic Titanic Belfast visitor attraction. a historic venue, meeting rooms are equipped with the latest technology and modern facilities to accommodate your next hybrid or ‘in person’ meeting with ease. £ per person. event, residential meeting, private dinner packages available on request. more, (0)28 9508 2000.

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Now that the pandemic has been consigned to history, there’s no shortage of other challenges for big companies like Henderson Group, not least the so-called cost of living crisis with its sharp effect on energy costs across the board.

20 But, with the Henderson Group coming off the back of a strong pandemic performance and some favourable trends, the Group’s Sales and Marketing Director is confident that one of our largest private sector companies has the strength to survive and prosper.

The Covid pandemic presented plenty of challenges for the retail group, which had to adapt to keep trading throughout the worst of the crisis, but it also brought opportunities. “People’s shopping habits changed by necessity,” says Paddy Doody. “They had to stay close to home during the early part of the pandemic, and it’s something that has stayed with them.”

Eye on Cover Story

they’ll be more promiscuous too... promiscuous in the sense that they’ll shop around a lot more.” Henderson Group has already seen a significant jump in sales of own brand lines in its stores.

“With the combination of rising energy costs and the rising cost of essentials in the shops, there’s no doubt that we’re seeing and will see a drop in disposable incomes,” he adds. “People are already more cost conscious and more savvy, and we’re aware that

Paddy Doody is all too aware that there are a few storm clouds on the economic horizon this summer.

“We’ll continue to work hard to deliver as much value, and as many offers, as we possibly can for our shoppers. We have to keep

Squaring Up To The Challenges

The Henderson Group has grown into an impressive enterprise by any standards. It certainly impressed a recent visitor to its Mallusk headquarters site, Chancellor of the Exchequer Nadhim Zahawi. With a turnover nudging £1.2 billion, more than 500 stores and some 5,000 employees, this is a company which is crucial to the broader local economy... not just because of its size, but because of its economic impact across just about every local community here.

Paddy Doody & GroupHenderson

“When you’ve got 500-plus stores of varying sizes, plus over half a million sq. ft of warehousing and hundreds of vehicles to fuel, heat, light and refrigerate, rising energy costs have a serious and immediate impact,” says Paddy Doody. “Add to that the fact that our suppliers are facing similar issues and are coming to us with price rises and you start to get the picture of what we’re up against.

we’re also bringing goods in from Britain. What we really want to see is a real focus on minimising bureaucracy and red tape, perhaps through an increased and better use of available technology.” Henderson Group, he says, has continued to invest at an impressive pace. And it didn’t take its foot off the investment pedal during Covid, either.

21 things as tight as we possibly can at a time like this, and I don’t think we’ve seen the worst of it yet.” Technology like the Gander app, which finds on sale and discounted items in local stores, will have an increased role to play, Paddy Doody reckons. Not surprisingly, Henderson Group’s Sales and Marketing

“By way of example, we’ve spent £35 million on this site alone,” he says, looking out of the boardroom window at the large Henderson Group office and warehousing complex at Mallusk.

“But we’ve also maintained a large-scale programme of investment in our stores, including

“Suffice to say that we are an all-island business. We’re buying goods from the Republic, but

Director sidesteps any issues which have become politicised, as almost every issue seems to do here in Northern Ireland. So, while he says that Brexit has caused serious issues, he doesn’t go into the detail of the NI Protocol.

promiscuous

“With the combination of rising energy costs and the rising cost of essentials in the shops, there’s no doubt that we’re seeing and will see a drop in disposable incomes. People are already more cost conscious and more savvy, and we’re aware that they’ll be more promiscuous too... in the sense that they’ll shop around a lot more.”

22 Eye on Cover Story refurbishments, extensions and the building of brand new stores on sites that we’ve acquired.” He spotlights the new EUROSPAR at Doagh in Co. Antrim, developed from a small Mace store and petrol station in the village. Not far from HQ, SPAR Mallusk has been quadrupled in size and will open in its new form in Q4 this financial year. Other recent developments include a much larger store at Kircubbin on the Ards Peninsula and at Rossdowney in Derry/ Londonderry. Investments

have also taken place at two of the company’s busiest sites on the outskirts of Belfast –Brackenvale on the Saintfield Road and Ballyhackamore on the Upper Newtownards Road.

Meanwhile, the redevelopment of the Maxol site at Kinnegar in Holywood (where SPAR runs the retail offering) will include a suite of rapid chargers for e-vehicles... the first of many due to be developed here. “Growing the size of our stores is something that has been a focus for us over recent years. We’ve extended the larger EUROSPAR format to a lot more of our sites. EUROSPAR supermarkets now make up around 30% of our business, and that’s a lot more than it was a few years ago,” Paddy Doody adds. “We’ve always been prudent and that’s not going to change,” he says. “We’ve invested well and we’ve invested wisely. And I think that puts us in a strong position going forward, whatever the challenges that might be thrown at us. “We’ve also continued to invest in price – in keeping costs for our customers down. That’s something that is about to become even more important, we feel. “Suppliers might well be under pressure, but it’s incumbent on us to push back on every single supplier price increase.” On the other hand, he’s well aware of the pressures others are under. Rising costs for dairy farmers, for instance, has led to a noticeable increase in the price of milk across the entire industry. Amongst the big grocery names, he reckons, there has been a bit of posturing around price challenges. “But what we all have to do, at the end of the day, is to keep the end consumer in mind.” A lesser known Henderson Group success story is the EdgePOS point of sale technology, developed by Henderson’s own technology division and now in operation not just across the group’s 517 stores here in Northern Ireland, but at other retail groups across the UK, Ireland and as far afield as Australia. “Technology plays a crucial role in what we do. It’s about efficiency in all of our operations, but it’s also about convenience for the shopper. We’ve worked to introduce in-store innovations like self-scanning (SPAR has one of the most userfriendly systems around), stock management and replenishment.” Staff in an increasing number of stores no longer handle cash, with shoppers able to use an automatic payment interface. “We’re well aware,” says Paddy Doody, “that there are challenging times ahead. But we’re in a strong position to cope with whatever comes our way, and to look after our retailers and shoppers at the same time.”

Rockdene has also been recognised as a ‘Families, Dogs, Cyclists, Golfers and Film Crew’ property. The Welcome Schemes help to direct visitors to suitable establishments that pay particular attention to their specific requirements.

Mark Bethel, Owner of Rockdene Properties Limited, added: “I am honoured to have received a fivestar quality grading award from Tourism NI as recognition for my team’s hard work to deliver a unique luxury self-catering experience at the heart of Portrush.

Paul Dalzell, CEO, Milecross

David Roberts, Director of Strategic Development at Tourism NI, commented: “We are thrilled to award Rockdene this well-deserved five-star grading. With research indicating that Northern Ireland’s closer to home markets continue to be highly sought after, self-catering accommodation like Rockdene is vital to supporting demand this summer and beyond.”

With over £300m funds under management, Milecross is one of the largest Openwork Partnership businesses in the UK with over 30 offices and 80 advisers already working from branches across NI, Scotland and Northwest England. These numbers will now initially increase to close to 100 following the announcement while the network continues to identify additional opportunities for growth.

“This is just the next step to wider expansion plans for Milecross, and we are excited to bring our skills and experience to the area through our unique business model which has helped us achieve great success in Northern Ireland.”

This latest move further advances the network’s plans to more than double in size throughout the UK in the next five years and comes just months after it successfully launched its offering in England with a number of Yorkshire Building Society agencies in Northwest England.

23 Rockdene Beach House Portrush has been awarded five stars by Tourism NI. The property is an ideal base for exploring the many attractions along the Causeway Coast including a variety of Game of Thrones filming locations, East Strand Beach, the Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

Five-Star Stay at North Coast Beach House

Eye on News

One of the largest financial advice networks in Northern Ireland, Milecross Financial has announced a £1.5million investment to further expand their operations across Scotland through several key acquisitions and partnerships in Glasgow, South Lanarkshire and Aberdeen.

David added: “This five-star rating now gives it a great springboard to draw even more visitors to the North Coast area. I commend Mark for all his efforts in transforming this unique property into a luxurious self-catering accommodation.”

Paul Dalzell, CEO, Milecross, said:

Rockdene has touched the hearts of so many people during their visits to the North Coast over the last 100 years and I am now delighted to provide such a special place for families and groups of friends to relax, unwind and marvel in the delights of the Causeway Coast.”

“Our core values of long-term sustainability, strong customer focus, colleagues who are valued and having a positive engagement with local communities are mirrored by each agency and adviser who has joined our operation in Scotland.

NI Financial Services firm invests £1.5million in expansion of Scottish network

Pictured at Rockdene Beach House in Portrush (L-r) are David Roberts, Director of Strategic Development at Tourism NI and Mark Bethel, Owner of Rockdene Properties Limited.

“We now have an even broader reach and range of services and support for clients across the region. Each agency has the flexibility to augment their own suite of products with the additional services Milecross can deliver including investments and mortgages from other providers through our financial advisers now based in each location.”

Situated on the mouth of the river Lagan and with the iconic Titanic Belfast building and Harland and Wolff cranes providing a stunning backdrop, the Slipways brings together Belfast’s strong industrial and maritime history and Northern Ireland’s resurgent future to create an authentically ‘Belfast’ event space.

For further information on the wide range of events packages at Titanic Belfast, visit titanicbelfast.com/ venuehire or email enquiries@ titanicbelfast.com.

Full Steam Ahead For Titanic Belfast

24 The world-leading attraction is firmly established on the local, national and international stage, with 82% of visitors coming from outside NI, and as the tourism industry rebuilds it will undoubtedly continue to act a catalyst for regrowth.

Eye on Venues

Located on the top floors of Titanic Belfast with stunning views of the historic Slipways and Belfast Lough, where the world-famous liner was built and launched, the Titanic Suites offer clients enormous flexibility. With capacity for intimate dinner parties of 20 to large scale takeovers for up to 1,500 - the possibilities for your conference, banquet, exhibition or reception are endless! The opulent décor, themed on the interiors of RMS Titanic, White Star Line crockery and a stunning replica of the liner’s famous Grand Staircase provides guests with a hint of heritage alongside a truly five-star experience. With an impeccable record of providing high-quality food and world class service, the experienced chef team create seasonal menus tailored to each event with stunning courses prepared using the very best of local and sustainable ingredients, ensuring all guests enjoy a dining experience to remember.

Other event spaces operated by the Titanic Belfast team include SS Nomadic – famous as a tender for Titanic, the last remaining White Star vessel is available for exclusive hire providing a spectacular heritage venue with access for up to 180 guests. The White Star experience can be enjoyed from the moment they arrive on the dockside and marvel at the ship’s design and luxurious décor, including same the original interiors that greeted first and second-class passengers on board RMS Titanic.

Having recently been recognised as a leader in sustainability with a Silver award from the Green Meetings accreditation, which sets the standard for sustainability practices within meetings and events venues, Titanic Belfast is committed to supporting event organisers in delivering greener events at the venue. This is part of its own ambitious sustainability goals which include committing to reducing energy consumption by five per cent by 2030, removing all single-use plastic items by 2025 and aiming to become a zero-waste organisation by 2030.

Since launching 10 years ago, there is no doubt Titanic Belfast has played a key role in the resurgence of tourism not only for Belfast and Northern Ireland but to island of Ireland as a whole.

So, it’s not unexpected that the worldclass venue has also seen a marked increase in the number of corporate events from both local businesses, as well as national and international associations and companies, as people welcome the return of face-to-face gatherings.

As a unique destination, Titanic Belfast boasts a diverse and versatile selection of event spaces and is part of the TBL International portfolio of venues, providing event organisers with options across multiple sites, catering for every need.

Since the beginning of 2022, the iconic venue has hosted an extensive number of high-profile events including the Management and Leadership Summit, Critical Care Review Conference, the Irish Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry and The Academy of Urbanism Congress gala dinner, welcoming delegates from all around the world to experience a taste of Northern Irish hospitality. While a busy calendar lies ahead, hosting an array of prestigious events such as the European Council on Eating Disorders, the Association of Anaesthetists of GB and Ireland and Solar Orbital gala dinners, Candlelight Concerts, the CIPD Awards and the Pretty in Pink charity gala.

For larger scale outdoor events, it is no surprise that the historic Slipways have been the location of choice for hundreds of world-class events including the Giro d’Italia Big Start, BBC’s Biggest Weekend and Carl Frampton’s world title fight.

We also spoke with two local businesses that were established in the middle of the pandemic who know all too well the role technology plays in operating a business in today’s climate.

The service is delivered over fibre optic cables running right to the property or business, which also means Ultrafast Full Fibre broadband is five times more reliable than traditional copper based broadband connections. Greater capacity means more devices can be connected – so more people can get online at once without experiencing any slowdown, buffering or dropouts. And the pandemic highlighted our reliance on fast and robust broadband. In fact, demand for broadband over the Openreach network doubled during 2020 and increased a further 20% during 2021 - more and more NI homes and businesses are ordering a Full Fibre upgrade.

Chief Executive of NI Chamber Ann McGregor says: “The digital future of Northern Ireland is extremely positive.

The continued Openreach investment puts Northern Ireland in an enviable position well ahead of our near neighbours, as the most connected region in the UK and in Ireland. This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to take advantage of, while we are ahead of other regions.”

Digital connectivity has been at the heart of these businesses since the beginning and without access to a fast, reliable and futureproof broadband they would not have experienced the growth and success they are proud of today.

Full Fibre technology opens up endless opportunities for businesses across Northern Ireland demand for online services continuing to increase, the role that Openreach Northern Ireland (NI) plays in keeping people and businesses connected has never been more important.

With

The last few years have made businesses stop and reconsider the way they operate. The pandemic has increased the need for businesses to be adaptable and agile to survive, finding innovative ways to overcome the challenges they’ve faced. These challenges include an unstable economic landscape; many businesses migrating to digital services meaning increased competition; and the increased need to streamline operations. Despite these challenges, some businesses have come out stronger than before and many have found that technology has played a key role, with greater digital connectivity through Ultrafast Full Fibre broadband. This Full Fibre technology has opened up endless opportunities, even encouraging the set-up of new businesses throughout the most challenging of times during the pandemic. At the heart of greater digital connectivity is having robust infrastructure in place that can cope with increasing demands and the continued development of new, data-hungry businesses. Openreach NI is leading the charge in ensuring the region has a future-proof broadband network capable of meeting these demands - now and for decades to come. It continues to invest in the economic future of Northern Ireland with more than 80 per cent of homes and businesses now able to get its next generation Ultrafast Full Fibre broadband – that’s 4 out of 5 properties.

Full Fibre broadband is up to twelve times faster than the average home broadband connection. For example, you can download a two-hour HD film in less time than it takes to make a cup of tea.

26 Eye on Communications

He converted his garage into a small bakery and set up his Instagram page and website which were key to getting the word out to customers and receiving orders. For the first three months during lockdown, Steve and his wife Kirsty sold bagels and schmear from their home for pick-up every Saturday morning.

Eye

Matthew, Brendan and Paul launched Mortgage Propeller just before the pandemic hit, however significant investor commitments were lost overnight in March 2020 when the world went into lockdown. Digital connectivity then played a key role in overcoming this challenge, enabling them to link up with other investors from across the globe via video calls to raise their first £500k of investment. Matthew said: “On one Dragon’s Den style presentation I pitched to over 50 investors via Zoom. You need solid, reliable broadband to do that without any buffering or drop outs, thankfully that went well and I got £100k of investment from 10 of the investors on the call. Having access to Ultrafast Full Fibre broadband made all the difference” Speaking about the key role Ultrafast Full Fibre broadband played and continues to play in the business, Matthew said: “We launched our broker platform, www. mortgagepropeller.com in January 2021 which is a fully automated marketplace connecting home buyers from all over the UK with mortgage brokers from all over the UK. Within the space of seven months, £55m of mortgage applications went to over 30 brokersthat’s a lot of people buying their home through our fully online platform. “Over 400 borrowers’ bought their home during lockdown with the help of broadband by connecting to our brokers. Even as the volume of activity increased the platform never crashed, it was seamless. We are really proud that so many borrowers were able to, and still continue to get their dream home secured through our platform. None of it would be possible without the businesses’ fast and reliable connection to Ultrafast Full Fibre broadband.” And the future continues to look bright for Mortgage Propellers who now have eight full-time staff and are actively hiring more. Bodega Bagels When Northern Ireland was still reeling from the impact of the pandemic, Steven Orr, co-founder of New York City-inspired bagel company Bodega Bagels decided to pursue his long-time passion for authentic NYC bagels and open his own take on the classic bagel bakery alongside his partner Kirsty Winter. Speaking about the role technology played in the initial thinking behind his business, Steve said: “With no similar businesses to draw inspiration from locally and no way to get on a plane to the USA during Covid, I learnt everything I know about running a bagel shop online. Youtube, Instagram and Reddit played a massive role in giving me the knowledge and tools to take the leap.”

Steve continued, “Through my online search I got in touch with a New Yorkbased influencer @brooklynbagelblog as well as Scott Rossillo, owner of the Brooklyn Bagel shop and renowned for inventing the famous rainbow bagel.

Steve began to put the wheels in motion to get his business up and running.

“Bodega has been entirely built as an online business that just happens to be a bricks and mortar bakery at heart.” on

Mortgage Propeller Matthew McAllister, co-founder of Mortgage Propeller, the UK’s most innovative mortgage advisory firm based in Belfast, accredits Full Fibre broadband for getting the business off the ground and allowing them to operate. After a couple of tedious experiences securing a mortgage himself, Matthew was determined to create a free platform to speed up the mortgage application process and remove unnecessary stress. Alongside his co-founders Brendan Sheehy and Paul Dalzell, as a FinTech startup, they needed investment to create the technology to launch a pilot and prove the concept.

Communications

For more information nihelp@openreach.co.ukcontact

“We use a cloud-based rota app for scheduling and driving new customers to our website via Instagram and TikTok and we share online spreadsheets with our accountancy firm for timesheets to run payroll, as well as with our wholesaler suppliers for weekly ordering of inventory. Where possible I want to be able to run every aspect of Bodega from ordering, stock levels, staffing and promotion from my phone.”

Steven Orr, co-founder of bagel company Bodega Bagels Mortgage Propeller Co-Founders Matthew McAllister and Paul Dalzell alongside Laura Gorman, Lois Tudge and Eoin McAlinden.

“I worked in IT as a project manager for the past 10 years so I was well versed in the power of technology, but still had no idea how much I would rely on it when running my own business.” Now as a 13-strong company with 2 locations across Belfast, Bodega continues to rely heavily on digital connectivity through future proofed Full Fibre broadband to run the business day to day.

Without being able to get in touch with people across the globe in New York City through social media and video calling, Bodega Bagels would never have been as authentic and as close to the real thing as it is today.”

Steve credits the power of digital connectivity for the business’s immediate success. “From week one we sold out within 20 minutes and even as we increased in capacity, we sold out of bagels every week. That was largely due to the buzz we created on social media - as more people posted pictures of their bagels, we got busier and busier with online orders. “We were effectively an online-only business for the first 4 months of trading. Without Full Fibre broadband technology, none of it would have been possible during lockdown.”

One in three (34%) business leaders said the pandemic was the main driver of the supply chain challenges, and around one in five (18%) blamed Brexit for the ongoing turmoil. Other reasons for the disruption included increased shipping costs, cited by 16% of respondents, events in Ukraine (12%) and increased competition for scarce resources (10%).

To address the problems, in the past year almost half (42%) of businesses have increased the number of suppliers they use in an attempt to become less reliant on one source, a third (33%) have nearshored the supply chain and 41% are considering nearshoring within the next 12 months.

Tom Pugh, economist, RSM UK said: ‘As businesses struggle with supply chain difficulties, the race to find the next prime minister will no doubt bring further uncertainty. A change of prime minister could bring slightly looser monetary policy, which may support the economy in the short term. But lower taxes could feed into higher inflation and a faster, higher interest rate rise which could offset any positive economic impact over the next year.’

*The research was carried out by The Harris Poll for RSM. 412 senior executives from UK middle market businesses, defined as companies with a turnover between £10m and £750m, or financial institutions with assets under management of £200m to £7.5bn, were surveyed for the research.

The top five supply chain issues that businesses are currently experiencing include delays with orders (48%), increasing costs (46%), missed deadlines (37%), orders not fulfilled (35%) and poor communication from suppliers (34%).

Richard Gardiner, office managing partner for RSM in Belfast, said: ‘The first supply chain shocks, mainly from coronavirus related chaos, were most acutely seen in advanced microchips, semi-conductors and high-end consumer goods. But now we have a more general supply chain issue affecting basic necessities too, and this is when the supply challenges really start to bite. Add to this the impact of generally higher transportation costs and customs and duty requirements at the borders, with the ongoing geopolitical landscape not improving for the foreseeable future, it’s very likely prices will continue to rise.’

Soaring energy costs and wage growth expectations are also compounding the problem for many businesses, reducing remaining profits and stakeholder returns.

28 Eye on Outlook Well over a third (39%) of middle increasesexperiencingmiddleledsupplyshowedclearbusinesses,causeresignationNorthernbarrierthisanProtocol,aroundthearecontextWithinmiddlehittingcreatedmanufacturingthethepandemic,‘TheAccordingdisruptiontheandwithinexperiencedbusinesses*markethavesupplychainissuesthepast12months,thislikelyrepresentstipoftheicebergaslookssettocontinue.toRSMUK’slatestRealEconomy’report,thethewarinUkraine,aftermathofBrexitandsoaringcostofenergyandmaterialshaveaperfectstormthatisthebottomlineofmanymarketbusinesses.theNorthernIrelandthecomplexitiesfurthercomplicatedbyongoinguncertaintytheNorthernIrelandanddependingonindividual’sperspectiverepresentseitheraoranopportunityforIrelandbusinesses.Theprimeminister’srecentisalsolikelytofurtheruncertaintyforatleastuntilitiswhowillsucceedhim.RSM’slatestresearchunanticipatedchainissueshavetoalmosthalf(44%)ofmarketbusinessessignificantintheiroperating costs, while 42% said they’ve seen their profits decline.

Growing supply chain issues fuelling multiple pressurepoints for businesses, says RSM UK

Richard Gardiner, office managing partner for RSM in Belfast

The Economy:Real

Richard Gardiner continued: ‘The EU decoupling from its dependency on Russian fuel has started, but it will take time and will not be an easy transition process. It is inevitable that it will cause tension economically and geopolitically, and the hit on established international supply chains is increasing costs.’ Around two thirds (63%) of middle market businesses surveyed said their supply chain issues were also causing problems for their downstream customers. Over half (53%) said they’d been delayed in fulfilling their customers’ orders and 43% had increased the price of their goods significantly. Around a third (33%) admitted some orders were not fulfilled at all.

Richard Gardiner concluded: ‘From speaking with our clients here in Northern Ireland, their concerns surrounding supply chain challenges are heightened due to the Northern Ireland Protocol, which adds an additional layer of complexity in terms of transporting goods and border checks between EU and nonEU countries. This, coupled with the aftermath of Brexit, the pandemic and inflation on supply chain management processes, means that clients are really feeling the pinch and they work to mitigate supply chain pressures and squeezed profit margins. This is clearly not just a UK issue but very much a similar story across other advanced economies and going forward the global ‘just in time’ supply methodology might require a rethink.’

A commitment to extend facilities as the Company’s growth plans are further escalated and realised.

Eye on Finance

SECTOR: Service based business providing secure corporate management support, across the UK and Ireland. Established 20+ years ago as a Facilities Management business which has evolved into more specialist niche services.

FACILITY SIZE: £4M on day one with substantial headroom – with the facility expecting to peak at £16M in 24 months, mirroring the growth in revenue.

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This method of funding was entirely new to the Company’s advisors and set Upstream apart from other providers. As a result, the client is now deploying all of the capital available to fund their growth plans, which has resulted in already positive results and new business growth. Upstream is now working in a complementary manner with the incumbent Bank, and all parties have established a collaborative and supportive relationship for the client’s benefit.

CHALLENGE: The promoters had a timely opportunity to scale the business, as their market is maturing and streamlining with the advent of fintech based solutions. Simultaneously, the founder wished to take some cash off the table for personal use, without major dilution of ownership. The business was well capitalised, financially stable, with clear and well-defined revenue streams. However, critically it needed a mix of working capital and growth capital to fund certain specific assets necessary to compete in a larger market. Whilst generally supportive, their Bank was struggling to structure a deal to fund existing and future revenue streams in an efficient and scalable manner and to give headroom for growth and diversification.

Upstream collaborated very closely with the client in a short time frame, looking at the future booked revenue, alongside the existing asset base and purchase orders to create a fluid receivables based, revolving line of finance.

Here’s how we recently assisted one well known Northern Ireland business:

With Upstream, we can use your company’s committed income streams to free up a significant amount of working capital that can, in turn, enable you to unlock discounts with your suppliers, manage your supply chain more efficiently, employ new staff, and explore new territories. At Upstream – part of Cubitt Trade Holdings (Europe) LLC – we specialise in structuring scalable, flexible, and innovative working capital solutions for ambitious businesses where growth, and development is being constrained due to insufficient and unimaginative funding. Covering Ireland and headquartered in Belfast, Upstream is led by an experienced team of owner-managers who have been supporting businesses of all sizes, across most sectors, as individuals for decades, and under the auspices of Upstream for more than a decade. Now, as part of a major, international finance group, Upstream has access to significant capital which has been earmarked for deployment in the UK and Ireland’s commercial and corporate markets.

and

Those images show scenes of devastation, communities being torn apart and violence and despite that nation being promised a positive future, their lives have been turned upside down overnight.

ANorthern Ireland property developer has helped raise £10,000 hiking five peaks of the Mourne Mountains.

He adds: “Few will not have seen the images from Afghanistan that have circulated the press recently.

David Simpson, who is also a passionate traveller and is currently on a mission to visit every country in the world having last spent time in Syria recently, took a break from foreign lands to embark on the arduous challenge for charity.

Eye on News NI property

Leigh Osborne, Community & Public Fundraising Manager at Action Cancer, said: “Action Cancer is a local charity that must raise £4m each year in order to deliver its range of cancer prevention, detection and support services.

L-R Sarah Agnew, Waites Gym; Leigh Osborne, Community & Public Fundraising Manager at Action Cancer and David Simpson, Simpson Developments

Afghanistan Appeal

It’s so true; early detection saves lives. “The charity also provides prevention, detection and support in Northern Ireland through health improvement programmes, digital breast screening, health checks and support and therapeutic services. “It is making a huge difference as early detection saves lives. With no regular government funding, Action Cancer is reliant on fundraising from the general public and local business community.”

The funds will be split between Action Cancer and UNICEF’s Afghanistan appeal. Supported by members of Ballyclare-based Waites Gym, David completed the seven-hour challenge in September 2021. This year he is launching the “7 Peaks Challenge with Action Cancer” which takes place on Saturday 17th September 2022.

The hike follows on from Simpson Developments recent donation of £15,000 to the Northern Ireland Hospice.

The Mourne Mountains are home to Northern Ireland’s highest peak, as well as incredible views and challenging hikes. He covered five peaks – Meelbeg, Meelmore, Bearnagh, Commedagh and Donard – in addition to Loughshannagh, Slievenaglogh and Corragh. Speaking about this mission, he said: “I am always seeking out new adventures and I understand that I’m in a very privileged position to do so. “I chose two charities to benefit from the hike; Action Cancer and UNICEF’s Afghanistan Appeal for two very good reasons. “I admire the work of Action Cancer. It is the only charity in the UK and Ireland to offer breast screening to women aged 40 – 49 and 70 plus who fall outside the NHS age range. Their unique 3D breast screening technology is picking up more cancers at an earlier and more treatable stage.

“The fundraising does not stop and we are thrilled that David Simpson is launching this year’s 7 Peaks Challenge which takes place on Saturday 17th September 2022. Team Action Cancer will take on the 7 Peaks Challenge and conquer seven peaks of the highest and most spectacular mountains in the Mournes while helping those affected by cancer in Northern Ireland.”

Action

Mr Simpson will give the other share of funds to UNICEF’s Afghanistan Appeal.

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the charity adapted its services so that these could be delivered online or safely face-to-face. We are delighted to see fundraising efforts ramping up in 2022 as we rely on donations to deliver our services and we would like to thank Simpson Developments and Waites for this kind donation.

UNICEF is currently working around the clock putting themselves at risk to help the lives of these vulnerable families with essential life saving supplies and it is an honour for me to support those efforts.”

To sign up for the “7 Peaks Challenge with Action Cancer”, contact Leigh Osborne via email losborne@ actioncancer.org or call 07928 668543.

David Simpson, Simpson Developments, took seven hours to complete the challenge and encourages others to sign up for this year’s “7 Peaks Challenge with Action Cancer” developer hikes five peaks raising £10,000 for Cancer UNICEF’s

“It is hard to accept that people are being forced to live this way and having travelled in and around the area I know they are among the kindest, most hospitable nationalities.

of the Mourne Mountains

County Down Irish Whiskey and Gin distillery, Hinch, has appointed Sacha Donnelly as its new Events Co-ordinator.

L-R Aislinn Strange, HR & Training Officer, Hinch Distillery; Patrick Cross, Director, Hinch Distillery and Sacha Donnelly, Events Co-ordinator, Hinch Distillery. Hinch Distillery appoints new Events Co-ordinator as distillery completes the final stage of its tour experience

Sacha will join the 50-strong team at the business and is the first of several appointments to be Theannounced.Newrynative’s appointment will see her identify and report on business opportunities, managing sales operations to reach financial and customer targets at what is one of the newest, up and coming tourism locations here.

Sacha will conceptualise, plan and coordinate business and social events, in addition to coordinating weddings. She will work closely with the couple getting married to ensure that their big day goes off without a hitch. This often involves managing vendors, coordinating with other wedding professionals such as photographers and florists, and overseeing any number of other tasks related to ensuring that everything is perfect on this one day. Using her creativity Sacha will spearhead a new itinerary of activities that will further boost the profile of the distillery, while her digital aptitude will allow her to ramp up the distillery’s online presence via social media networks.

Eye on News

Sacha achieved a First Class Honours in Event Management from Ulster University and has experience in the retail and hospitality industries, with senior appointments and event management responsibilities. A true entrepreneur, after her roles in retail and hospitality, she set up her own wedding business, White Nights Teepee Hire, which offers bespoke weddings and events in unique canvas bell tents. She will marry her new role at Hinch Distillery with her own business going forward. Her appointment comes as Hinch Distillery secured funding from Tourism NI to complete the final stage of its tour experience. That £500,000 Maturation Warehouse, which showcases the maturation process involved in making Irish whiskey, will add an additional element to the offering at the site. Hinch Distillery is planning to add even more members to its team this summer including chefs and front of house staff.

David Roberts, Director of Strategic Development at Tourism NI, said: “We are delighted to work with Hinch Distillery to help grow its tourism offering. We have offered them £200,000 of support under the Experience Development Programme 2020-2021, which has helped with the construction and fit out costs relating to the Hinch Distillery Visitor Centre Experience. “The completion of the Maturation Warehouse will add another important dimension to the whiskey tour experience which is attracting domestic and international visitors. The distillery and visitor centre adds to Northern Ireland’s growing drinks tourism industry with its distinct product offering and customer experience. This is something that Terry and his team should all be proud of.”

Hinch Distillery Director, Patrick Cross, said: “We are delighted to appoint Sacha to the role of Events Co-ordinator. She will play a very important role in the future of Hinch Distillery and her background will see her execute many big events and weddings at the distillery. “Hiring the right people is the most important part of building a strong team, of course, and delegating to give people more autonomy is a powerful motivator. We welcome Sacha to the family and look forward to working with her.”

That £500,000 Maturation Warehouse, which showcases the maturation process involved in making Irish whiskey, will add an additional element to the offering at the site.

Founder of Vikela Armour, Peter Gilleece, said: “It is an honour to be named as the overall winner of INVENT 2022 and to see the potential of our business being recognised. “Existing body armour leaves the head, arms and legs completely exposed and is built on an outdated concept. It is also too heavy, reducing the flexibility of movement and causes the wearer to become exhausted. I wanted to address these issues, leading to the creation of Vikela Armour.

Paramedics, motorcyclists, mine clearance charities, the military and many more industries can benefit from our lightweight, full coverage products.” He added: “The funding we have received from INVENT will help us to expand into more industries, including aerospace and automotive. We hope that in five years from now we will be growing our manufacturing base further within Northern Ireland and will be starting to design the next evolution of armour.”

Greentech – Phasora Ltd Health and Wellbeing – Pulse AI Business Software – Thunder Consumer Software – Linc Product –

Newry Chamber President’s Banquet Lunch Launched

Julie Gibbons launches the Newry Chamber President’s Banquet Lunch which takes place on Friday 21st October. Pictured are event sponsor representatives, Mairead McParland, Director, and Mary Dillion, Restaurant Manager, from the Canal Court Hotel & Spa and Caroline McKeown, Senior Relationship Manager, Ulster Bank.

Belfast-based engineering graduate Peter Gilleece set up Vikela Armour to develop a new type of body armour that provides better protection and comfort than conventional flak jackets.

INVENT Awards category winners on the night were: Vikela Armour

“At Ulster Bank, we want to support businesses fulfil their ambition for success and it’s great to have such a committed partner in Newry Chamber to help us achieve this aim. This region has an important role to play in driving growth for the overall economy of Northern Ireland and, as we mark 20 years of Newry City status, it is a great opportunity to come together and celebrate the strength and success of the local business community.

Ten finalists were chosen to compete for the main prize at a showcase event in the ICC Belfast, with Vikela Armour taking home a prize package of £26,000 from the total prize fund of £50,000.

Mairead McParland, Director at Canal Court Hotel & Spa said, “We are delighted to partner with Newry Chamber once again. The Canal Court, as the city’s largest hotel and conference facility, has a strong working relationship with the Chamber. Our professional staff will ensure a great afternoon for the Chamber’s guests and the local business community.”

Organised by science and technology hub Catalyst with headline partner Bank of Ireland, the annual INVENT Awards celebrate the brightest new business ideas with the greatest commercial potential from across the region.

Caroline McKeown, Senior Relationship Manager, Ulster Bank, commented “This event has become a firm fixture in the local business calendar and as we approach the banquet, we are looking forward to working with the team at Newry Chamber and growing our partnership even further.

Tickets for the Banquet can be reserved by contacting the Newry Chamber office via email admin@newrychamber.com

George Higginson from Bank of Ireland, Peter Gilleece, founder of INVENT 2022 winner Vikela Armour, Meg Magill, INVENT Programme Manager, and Steve Orr, CEO of Catalyst.

Next generation body armour start-up Vikela Armour named winner of INVENT 2022

32 Eye on News Body armour start-up Vikela Armour has been named as the winner of this year’s INVENT Awards, Northern Ireland’s premier competition for innovative start-ups.

Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade have announced the date of their annual President’s Banquet. It will take place on Friday 21st October (12 noon to 3.30pm) at the Canal Court Hotel & Spa. This year’s theme will be a City of Celebration marking 20 years of city status. The Banquet is one of the highlights of the business year in the city, with more than 200 guests expected from organisations across the Greater Newry area. Julie Gibbons, Chamber President, commented “The Chamber has always been about businesses and individuals coming together, sharing ideas and supporting each other. We want to celebrate this collaborative spirit at the Banquet. A panel of local business leaders involved in the city status bid will look back at how far we have come in 20 years. Headline speaker, Jayne Brady, Head of the NI Civil Service, will set out her vision for an NI of the future in her keynote address. This is an event not to be missed as we launch our inaugural Chamber

President’s Awards in recognition of people who have made an inspirational contribution to the Greater Newry area. We are grateful to Banquet sponsors Ulster Bank and the Canal Court Hotel & Spa for their support. We are delighted to have Southern Area Hospice and Saint Vincent de Paul as the Charity partners for the event too”.

Government support in the rear-view mirror

33 Eye on AAccountancy

As a result, the inevitable appears to be happening - a rise in corporate distress, leading to a rise in formal insolvencies.

The “keep the head down and wait for the better days” approach is of course appealing. In the end, most businesses came through the pandemic in decent shape. It must be remembered, however, that was with the cushion of bounceback loans, furlough monies, rates holidays and grants. That support is, on the whole, long gone.

Finance is also more expensive and harder to secure, with lenders taking a more cautious approach overall. Deals that were on the table three months ago have been pulled due to a reversal in lender appetite.

Objective, straight talking professional advisors, be it accountants, lawyers, insolvency practitioners, HR professionals or others, will play a key part in the survival and growth of many businesses over the coming months and years.

s the local economy is thrust back into uncertainty, it can feel like a repeat of early to mid2020. To rise above the current challenges brought about by a new set of worries, business leaders need to understand how the situation has shifted - and how a restructuring mindset can keep a business on track, and lead to future growth. At the time of writing, the country is not technically in a recession; however, from talking to business leaders in recent weeks and months, their concerns are crystal clear – on the ground, it feels very much like a recession. Increased costs all round, compounded by a reduction in consumer demand and tightening of belts, is causing worry within many sectors. Hospitality venues are being forced to operate on reduced hours, retailers are reporting days with no customer visitors instore and construction companies are having to down tools. It is fair to say that this is a strikingly different, considerably more uncertain, business environment to the one that business leaders have faced in recent years. The recovery was already having an inflationary impact as demand for labour and materials intensified. The Ukraine conflict continues to exacerbate supply chain disruption and has fuelled further rises in energy, transport and agricultural prices. As inflation climbs upwards, and shows no sign of stopping, borrowing costs are on the rise, with the biggest rise in 25 years announced in early August. This undoubtedly has the impact of squeezing household budgets and denting the business and consumer confidence that had built up during the latter part of 2021 when deposits had accumulated.

For any business experiencing distress, the knowledge and independence of a professional advisor might well be the difference between turning the corner and shutting the doors.

Gareth McGonigle is Restructuring and Insolvency Director at ASM Chartered Accountants and is a Licensed Insolvency Practitioner. If you or your clients would benefit from a free, confidential discussion, please do not hesitate to contact Gareth on 02890 249 222 or at mcgonigle@asmbelfast.comgareth.

This is the time to take prompt and proactive action in preventing risks, propping up finances and stabilising day-to-day operations. Forecasting cash flow projections to ensure where there is a funding gap, it is identified well ahead of time, allowing for appropriate action to be taken.

A TOUGH FEW MONTHS AHEAD

With inflation due to hit double digits in the coming months, business leaders are having to make some tough decisions.

Don’t go it alone

34 Eye on Commercial Property

Brian Lavery & CBRE Mixed Fortunes For Real Estate Sector

Hit as hard as any sector by the Covid pandemic, Northern Ireland’s real estate sector recovered better than most. As the pandemic eased, things were looking up right across the office, retail, industrial and hotel sub-sectors.

“The market will need to see delivery of a few developments to get the momentum going, just as it did in the student accommodation space over the last five years. However, there is a significant city centre residential living opportunity in Belfast due to our history and it is one of the most attractive asset classes for investors, delivering early mover advantage for those who come in at the beginning of the journey.”

Capital is mobile and it goes to the places where there is political certainty and economic and social positivity.” On the domestic front, he says that Belfast’s office space is starting to fill up in the wake of Covid. The brand new Ewart Building, clearly visible from CBRE’s seventh floor offices in Linenhall Street is an excellent example of the bounce back now as it now has 70% of space let and agreed with more in discussion.

But, if there is a move towards quality in office terms, there is also a move towards greener, more sustainable, buildings.

The retail sector, says Brian Lavery, has its challenges. “On a basic level it’s getting very tough to heat and light a major shopping centre, for example, without passing increasing energy costs on to the tenant companies and then down the line on to shoppers.”

CBRE has just placed one of Northern Ireland’s premier shopping centres, Rushmere in Craigavon, on the market for £57 million so any resulting deal will be a good bellwether on the state of the retail investment marketplace.

“In a sense, Belfast was fortunate that many Grade A office spaces were in construction pre-Covid. Post-Covid, we’re seeing improving demand for new Grade A office space as companies have heightened awareness of the importance of health and wellbeing for their teams. This bodes well for the new developments including City Quays 3, Olympic House in Titanic Quarter and the Paper Exchange in Chichester Street,” he says. “There are a number of reasonably sized office letting deals at the legal stage at the moment.” Private sector organisations, he says, are introducing hybrid working systems, but the vast majority have returned to office working in some shape or fashion. “Hybrid working is not affecting the demand for space but it is delaying some decision making,” he says, “Employers are prioritising collaborative, health and wellbeing designed space for their employees and there is a very distinct move towards high quality, high specification office environments. “It’s not just about looking after people post-pandemic. It’s also about attracting young mobile talent and retaining that talent in an ultra competitive marketplace. Global companies like KPMG, PwC and Deloitte have been showing the way with local companies also adapting to the need for clever and better designed space for their people attraction and retention strategies.”

“There is already legislation in place in GB that makes it illegal to let or sell a building unless stringent energy ratings are met by 2025. Because of the lack of a devolved government here, we don’t have that legislation yet, but it will come. We all need to start thinking about the buildings of the future.”

“Development can happen if it’s in the right places,” he says. “And there is still huge demand for industrial and logistic space out there from logistics operators and the manufacturing sector.”

“Globally, we’re seeing world leading blue chip companies aiming for net zero carbon office spaces, and that requires a major shift in investment levels. On the flip side, the cost of doing nothing vastly outweighs the investment and, here in Northern Ireland, we need a move towards net zero, in fact net positive, buildings.”

The same goes for retailers like Home Bargains, B&M Bargains and Poundland, all of whom continue to expand in terms of space. However, there is much work to be done to reinvigorate the high street and breathe life back into town and city centres.” Moving to the industrial sector, he welcomes the development of 100,000 sq. ft of industrial space in the Duncrue area of the city, the first speculative investment of its kind in 15 years or so and a positive indicator of market sentiment.

For more information, visit www.cbreni.com or follow @CBRE_NI on Twitter

At CBRE NI itself, expansion has continued. The firm has taken on eight new employees over the past 12 months and has invested in its Building Consultancy team, providing bespoke advice to its clients on new-build and restoration construction projects, interior fit-out and consultancy services including cost management, engineering and building surveying.

“There is positivity,” he adds. “Retail parks continue to perform very well, and we’re seeing continued demand for space from the likes of Starbucks, Caffe Nero, McDonald’s and Greggs.

35 But, again in common with other areas of the local economy, real estate didn’t reckon on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the continued political uncertainty at home. “Initially, I don’t think anyone anticipated the fallout from the war in Ukraine,” says Brian Lavery, CBRE NI’s Managing Director. “But it soon became clear that the knock-on effects are going to impact on just about everyone and every part of the economy.” Brian Lavery says he knows of two potential US investments which have pulled out of coming to Northern Ireland. “Those decisions aren’t just based on global geo-political factors. They’ve also been influenced by political uncertainty here at home. It’s simple.

“Yes, we’ve got a few headwinds at the moment out in the marketplace.

As a business we are, like any other, considering costs, but that’s nothing unusual. All you’ve got to do is look at the last few years and what we’ve come through. We’re confident that the market will keep on doing what it does best and we are buoyed by the fact that real estate investment is often regarded as a hedge against inflation.”

The hotel sector, he adds, has bounced back well from the Covid pandemic. “Occupancy rates have been really good this summer and we’ve even seen some transactional activity in the hotel and leisure marketplace, such as the Wirefox acquisition of the Bushmills Inn on the north coast and some interesting planning applications coming through.” It’s not the only sector which is seeing increased activity. The major Loft Lines development planned in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter by Watkins Jones and Lacuna Developments, marks a major step into the build to rent space, with more project announcements expected in the future.

“It’s a very experiencedprofessional,boardandthis is also a very professional, well-run operation across the board,” she says. But she’s realistic about Tourism NI’s role.

GrahamEllvena –Experienced Chair Takes Over At Tourism NI Eye on Tourism

“Tourism NI can do nothing on its own,” says Ellvena. “It has to work hand in hand with government, its agencies and with a wide range of other organisations. That’s a fact of life for an organisation like this one. Collaboration is the name of the game.”

“In fact, one of the key challenges facing the tourism industry here at the moment is the shortage of people available to take on these jobs.” She’s joining an organisation she already knows well, and she underlines the fact that she will be working with what she describes as a ‘very strong board’ with representatives from the industry itself, from food & drink, from finance and from a range of other sectors.

One of Northern Ireland’s most experienced boardroom directors has taken over the chair at Tourism Northern Ireland.

The former head of Ulster Bank in Northern Ireland, she also chairs Catalyst and has just stepped down as Chair of ICC Belfast/ Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall. She also sits on the board of agri food giant Dale Farm and serves on the senate at Queen’s University as well as the management committee at Ulster Rugby.

Ellvena Graham is a passionate advocate of tourism’s potential when it comes to job creation and economic impact. “This is an industry that can really make a difference.

It can provide plenty of jobs, many of them in outlying, rural areas where they’re badly needed.

36 Ellvena Graham replaced Terence Brannigan when his tenure came to an end during July, and she says that it’s a role that she didn’t have to think twice about.

“This is one that I really wanted,” she smiles. “I really want Northern Ireland to be successful as a region, to stand out, and tourism is definitely crucial to that.” She certainly brings any amount of experience to the chair’s role.

she says. “And I’m also looking forward to getting out and about across Northern Ireland to talk to the people who make tourism work on the ground.”

“I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in to the job,”

“Back in 2016, around three out of every 100 in the Republic reckoned that they were likely to visit Northern Ireland. Nowadays, that’s risen to 10 out of 100...and that shows the potential that exists for close to home visitors before we get into the GB market and overseas visitors, notably those coming from the US.” “A huge number of first time visitors have been coming here, especially this summer, and it’s vital that we work really hard to sustain that.

Eye

“So there’s plenty to be done but we’ve got a fantastic product to offer so I’m confident and I’m looking forward to the task ahead.”

“We’ve got to make sure that we remain a value for money destination, we’ve got to work to turn day trippers into overnight visitors, and we also have to try really hard to get the North American visitors back in numbers.” on Tourism

August’s ISPS Handa Invitational tournament at Galgorm Castle outside Ballymena was another major golfing success, and produced a colossal 15,000 bed nights (a measure used by tourism authorities) for Northern Ireland as a whole and Co. Antrim in particular. She’s not afraid to identify issues that need to be addressed.

The various City Deals announced for Northern Ireland’s regions are welcome, she says. “They’re injecting much needed money into tourism on a regional basis, and that has to be a good thing. We’ve always got to remember that the tourism product here doesn’t end with the big signature destinations like the Giant’s Causeway and Titanic Belfast.”

“That won’t be easy bearing in mind the added pressures tourism businesses are under at the moment,” she adds. “These are tough times and many of our businesses are small enterprises.

“Against that, there is so much that we do really well. What makes the difference here is the people. We’re friendly – despite the negative publicity sometimes – and we’re inordinately proud of our own part of the world. We’re great hosts.”

Despite the interruption of Covid, tourism here in Northern Ireland has developed rapidly over recent years.

The new Tourism NI chair points to golf as a definite jewel in the crown of our tourism offering.

Peace Bridge, Derry~Londonderry.

As for Tourism Northern Ireland’s priorities under her chairmanship, Ellvena Graham singles out the job of maximising visitor numbers from the Republic of Ireland, getting more people into the industry to fill jobs and maintaining competitiveness and value for money.

The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim.

“Golf tourism has performed really well on the back of the Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2019. The Open, of course, is coming back to the North Coast in 2025 but, in the meantime, we can make hay while the sun shines.”

“It’s been well documented that our normal restaurant opening hours can leave tourists with little to do on Monday nights, for example, and Sundays here remain a bit of a problem for visitors.

For the next couple of years, the Titanic Hotel quickly became part of the Belfast landscape, drawing visitors, tourists, and locals alike into its bar, restaurants, rooms, and function suites. 2019 turned out to be a bumper year, just as Northern Ireland tourism as a whole hit new heights in the same year. It all ground to a halt in March 2020, when the Covid pandemic swept in. “For quite a number of months, there were only a few of us keeping an eye on an empty hotel,” says the Titanic Hotel Belfast’s Sales & Marketing Director Yvonne McIlree. But the good news for the Titanic Hotel Belfast and its Dublin-based owners, Harcourt Developments, is that the current year is well on course to surpass 2019’s record levels. By any standards, that’s quite an achievement. As we speak, there are several events taking place in the hotel at the tail end of the summer. Almost as soon as it opened,

Titanic Hotel –Looking To The Future With Confidence

Belfast’s iconic Titanic Hotel celebrates its fifth anniversary this month (September), and it’s been five years which the team at the hotel will remember for contrasting reasons.

pened in a blaze of publicity back in 2017, the hotel immediately won a series of plaudits for how it had elegantly breathed new life into one of the city’s most notable industrial heritage sites, the old Harland & Wolff Drawing Offices.

38 Eye on Venues

the hotel became a popular venue for weddings. But they’re part of a healthy mix which helps to make the Titanic Hotel Belfast the success that it is. “We’ve had very healthy occupancy levels in our rooms right through the summer season, but also right through the year,” says Yvonne. “We’re busy all-year round, we don’t really have an off-peak season.” Guests come in the form of tourists visiting Belfast (most of them at the moment from ROI and GB) but also business visitors. Bar and restaurant patrons can come from almost anywhere and include many Belfast locals, while the hotel hosts plenty of business events of varying size, from team building and meetings through to business launches and awards. “The Titanic is more than a hotel,” says Yvonne, putting her finger on what sets this place apart from other hotels around the city and elsewhere. “It’s been described as ‘half hotel, half museum’ and I suppose that describes it pretty well.” Certainly, the place is steeped in atmosphere and houses a number of artefacts harking back to the Titanic itself and the halcyon days of the Harland & Wolff shipyard. Housed in the hotel also is the infamous Telephone Exchange where they received the call that the Titanic was sinking, and the original offices and ‘corridor of power’ where the Company Directors where based. The hotel’s concierges, dressed in their period flat caps and tweed waistcoats, regularly host informal tours of the various items dotted around the property.

“So coming here, and staying here, is an experience in itself,” adds Yvonne. “Guests love to learn, for example, about how Lord Pirrie (H&W’s chairman until 1924 as well as Belfast’s Lord Mayor and a Member of Parliament) had his office in what is now one of our meeting rooms.” The hotel could hardly be better placed for visitors to Belfast. Right next door to Titanic Belfast, it’s only a short walk from Cathedral Quarter via the footbridge over the Lagan and it’s in the heart of a Titanic Quarter which is expanding rapidly. The brand new Titanic Distillery and Visitor Centre is due to open this autumn to add to the list of local attractions. It also regularly plays host to sports teams, performers and others in Belfast for events taking place at the nearby SSE Arena.

“Our challenge at the moment is to continue to offer value to our customers in the face of rising costs, but that’s a challenge faced by plenty of businesses just now,” she says. “At the same time, we’d like to increase our scope and attract more visitors from overseas, and North America in particular.

The hotel, says Yvonne, doesn’t suffer from the kind of staffing issues highlighted by many in the wider hospitality industry as a key challenge. “We’re fortunate to have a really loyal group of people working for us, a quarter of whom have been with the hotel since it first opened its doors,” she says.

We’ve an offering here which we know appeals to American visitors.”

The residential conference business is particularly lucrative, as it is to most hotels, combining as it does event space rental with rooms and food and beverage revenue. “When we first opened, we were seen by many as a leisure hotel primarily. We still have a strong leisure market, but we’ve proved our worth as a business hotel and business venue over the past years.” “Of course there are challenges ahead,” says Yvonne. “We’re currently finalising our 2023 forecasts for our head office and the key area of concern is around energy costs, while food costs are also rising sharply.”

The hotel forms part of a Harcourt Developments hotel portfolio that includes the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool as well as three properties in County Donegal – the Lough Eske Resort, the Redcastle Hotel & Spa, Bundoran’s Grand Central Hotel and the Caribbean resort of Carlisle Bay in Antigua.

• Include an assessment of the operation of the surrender principle, an examination of options for reforming it and an assessment of the implications of those options for licence holders.

LICENSING REFORM: WHAT IS NEXT ON THE HORIZON?

The surrender principle in Norther Ireland dictates that if a business intends to open a new public house, or off-licence, it has to obtain a licence from an existing business which is giving up its licence.

Hospitality and leisure businesses in Northern Ireland continue to face significant challenges as we reach the second half of 2022.

The Department was required to publicise, for the first time, the number of liquor licences in Northern Ireland. The first set of these statistics were published in June 2022. The headline statistics showed;

recently commented that “I would say if you look at our pub stock, the surrender principle has actually helped to keep it very high quality if you compare it to a lot of Great Britain where you have huge chains and every pub is the same”

2021 (“the act”) was introduced. This act, the most comprehensive in over 30 years, was welcomed by much of the sector as a much-needed step during a difficult period.

Statistics on number of licences in Northern Ireland

Following amendments to the Act by MLA’s the Department is required to appoint an independent person to conduct a full statutory review of Northern Ireland’s licensing laws to including the surrender principle. The review must;

In August 2021 the Licensing and Registration Licensing of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland)

Changes ahead?

40 Eye on Law Following the difficulties presented by Covid-19 lockdowns the sector saw significant bounceback as restrictions eased and pent up demand led to higher consumer spending. However, the recent cost of living crisis and recruitment difficulties have again left the future uncertain.

Any change to the surrender principle is likely to present a number of challenges for the Department both practically and financially. Licences are of significant monetary value to current licence holders and many have charged these to financial institutions when borrowing. There would likely be a need to develop a compensatory scheme for current licence holders and a determination of the level of compensation to be offered.

• Be completed by 2024 and laid before the assembly.

The surrender principle is, however, supported by many in the sector including the biggest hospitality group Hospitality Ulster. Colin Neal of Hospitality Ulster

• There is a significant variation in the number of liquor licences held by public houses in each Local Government District, per 10,000 of the population, shows a big discrepancy between Local Government Districts with a range from 11.8 in Fermanagh and Omagh to 2.5 in Lisburn and Castlereagh.

The principle has resulted in a highdemand and consequently high cost for licences. Alongside this, applicants have to demonstrate an inadequacy in the vicinity of the proposed licensed premise.

Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021

By Eoin Devlin, legal director at TLT

Surrender Principle

Conclusion The recent changes to our licensing laws have been broadly welcomed as a step towards a more modern licensing framework for local businesses at a time when they battle against significant economic head winds. The appetite for more reform continues however and the hospitality sector will await with interest the outcome of the independent review of our licensing laws and the options it proposes as regards the surrender principle.

• As of December 2021, there were 1,193 liquor licences for public houses and 637 for off-licences;

Many businesses based in other jurisdictions have been deterred from entering the NI market due to the cost and difficulty in obtaining a new licence.

The process is often seen as a barrier to investment. Some local businesses have complained that the surrender principle makes the cost of a new licence prohibitive for many small and medium enterprises with such an outlay required.

There has been a high demand for additional permitted hours and local producers’ licences.

Amongst the changes the new law has seen businesses able to apply for increased licensing permitted hours, the abolishment of Easter restrictions, new rules for local producers and the ability of the Department to designate certain events as ‘special/major’ and vary licensing hours in those areas accordingly.

The statistics above highlight the finite amount of public house and off sales licences in Northern Ireland.

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It was while working in the manufacturing sector here that Robert McConnell and Dr. Scott King realised they shared a common goal of nurturing NI businesses and supporting their growth. This mutual passion led them to establish Pinnacle Growth Group.

“Ithink through our own experiences at the client end of consultancy, we realised there was a need for a bespoke service, focused on the client’s individual challenges and goals, rather than a ‘one size fits all’ approach.” says Robert. “It’s something that stuck in both of our heads when we decided to set up our own consultancy. We were determined to carve out a new style of consultancy, one that never lost sight of the client and focused on delivering a real return on investment” The two met as engineering students at Ulster University and both worked for BE Aerospace in Kilkeel before going their separate ways, Robert to composites specialists CCP Gransden and Scott to become the founding head of NIACE, the Northern Ireland Advanced Composites & Engineering Centre. So, the pair bring plenty of frontline industry experience to the table. They’re joined on the Pinnacle senior on Business Advice

Pinnacle Growth Group Home-Grown Firm Helps NI, GB & International Companies

“We also encourage our team to embed themselves in their clients’ companies, to absorb their culture, to understand their business and what it’s all about. It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of tweaking a generic, off the peg solution to every project. That’s why understanding what our clients are trying to do is vital. “And, if we don’t think the project is right for us or for the client, we’ll not be afraid to tell them so. It’s all about honest and straightforward advice.”

“It’s still the case that too many companies here in Northern Ireland don’t apply for the various types of grants available,” he says. “There are probably a few reasons. Some aren’t aware of the various funds available, others may not have the resources or knowledge to know how to apply, and some are nervous about how they administer a grant and liaise with the funder. But they’re missing out on available public funding that can accelerate their growth and enable them to undertake activities which, without funding, wouldn’t be possible.”

Judith Neill says that part of the continued success of Pinnacle is also down to its team. “We are very proud of the team members we have in place. Each brings something unique and challenges us to keep ahead of the curve when it comes to client consultancy. We invest in our team as we believe this translates to the quality of the work we produce for clients.”

“It’s about what the client needs, not about what we can get out of them.

A large part of Pinnacle’s business lies in securing grants from funding organisations across the UK and Ireland.

“We’ll work on grants and a whole spectrum of other finance sources,” Scott King explains. “We’ll work with our clients across funding strategy, grant identification, completing applications, grant administration and grant evaluation. Importantly, we focus on linking everything back to their business goals and vision.

Eye on Business Advice

Judith Neill

“We’ve gone from one local client in the early days to a broad range of clients today, including globally recognised companies,” adds Robert. “They span across almost every sector from advanced manufacturing to digital technologies and the public sector.” Some clients, for fairly obvious reasons, can’t be named. But others include construction firm Spanwall, power specialists Continu, MDE Installations and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. “There’s a big range in terms of size too. Our smallest client is a £50,000 turnover company but our largest client is a household name turning over many hundreds of millions of pounds. Client engagement is a simple thing to do but it’s also crucial.” Scott King, Robert McConnell, and Judith Neill make it clear throughout the interview that, for Pinnacle Growth Group, it’s all about delivering for the client, whatever their size, sector or scale. “We take a bespoke approach to every project, we tailor our support and our delivery, and we always aim to add value along the way,” says Judith Neill.

All three senior managers say that they’re ambitious to continue the impressive growth at Pinnacle. “We’ll continue to grow here in Northern Ireland, we’ll continue to grow nationally, and we’ll continue to grow internationally,” says Robert McConnell. “We know that we can expand our client base. “We live and breathe what we do here at Pinnacle Growth Group. We’ll work hard to continue to evolve and to improve ourselves. And we’ve got some exciting new opportunities in the pipeline. So, watch this space.”

“We’ve helped over 400 different businesses of all shapes and sizes with Brexit advice,” says Robert McConnell. “As soon as Brexit started to take effect, we had potential clients knocking on our door looking for advice on what to do and how to do it. We’ve always taken a very pragmatic approach to how we can help them.”

He’s seen behind the curtain and he’s a great advocate of what we’re doing, and he’s engaged in our own growth, not just at board meetings but at any time,” adds Scott King.

Robert McConnell Dr Scott King

To find out more about Pinnacle Growth Group, visit: pinnaclegrowth.grouphttps://

Pinnacle Growth Group has worked with a series of client companies since Brexit, providing practical advice and guidance across areas like customs changes, team training and change management.

The management team at Pinnacle Growth Group have an experienced chairman to turn to whenever they need to. Dr Alastair Hamilton, the former Head of BT Business and Chief Executive of Invest Northern Ireland, took over the chairmanship of the company a couple of years ago. “Alastair is hugely experienced, but he also has a real drive and enthusiasm for helping businesses, particularly businesses here in Northern Ireland.

43 management team by Judith Neill, an experienced business leader who adds a strong sales and customer relationship focus to the management mix. “We felt that we could do something different, helping local manufacturing companies,” says Scott King. “Like a lot of companies, this one started life around my kitchen table, but we’ve always had a vision of what we wanted to achieve.” In four short years (Pinnacle was founded in 2018), the vision has become reality. Pinnacle Growth Group, from its base in Lisburn, has played its part in creating some 600 jobs, it has secured over £15 million in grant funding for its client companies, and it has invested steadily in its own growth. Over the past year or so, Pinnacle has invested £400,000 in the development of the 20-strong team at the consultancy, with plans to invest a similar amount this year. Its current investment programme includes the renovation of a neighbouring property at its fashionable Bachelor’s Walk headquarters in Lisburn to double the office space available. The expansion of its current premises has allowed the organisation to facilitate collaboration, to create training and development areas and to welcome more clients onsite.

44 But through the growth of its initial team of 375 over the past 17 years to a projected 3,700 members of staff by the end of this year, Citi have demonstrated just how regional economies can be impacted by large employers shifting jobs away from capital cities. “When we set up operations in Belfast almost two decades ago, we were the only major bank to do so,” says James Bardrick, Citi’s Country Officer for the UK. “Now – nearly two decades later – we find ourselves becoming part of the national conversation around levelling up as our success in Northern Ireland continues to grow.”

Citi’s success in Belfast has been marked by the expansion of the original technology team, with its offices now providing a home to vital functions including a legal team of 150 and growing – Northern Ireland’s largest in-house legal team. The team also takes great pride in the high retention rate within those original Citi Belfast staff.

Citi Belfast’s success in Northern Ireland shows how ‘levelling up’ can benefit business and the UK’s regional economies

When global financial services company Citi established its small outpost in

Commenting on the appeal of the global roles offered and Citi’s drive to attract what it calls ‘Soaring Ambition’ Leigh Meyer, Belfast Site Head, Global Head of FX Ops said: “We continue to grow and build upon our footprint as the only global investment bank to operate in Northern Ireland. We are now one of the largest employers locally and the largest financial services employer. Our functional footprint covers 21 diverse areas which include Technology, Operations, Legal, Compliance, Anti-money Laundering, Risk, Internal Audit, Markets and Securities Services, and Private Bank. All these roles deliver critical services to the bank and its global customers, supporting daily transactions in trillion-dollar businesses.” Reflecting on the importance of these critical services delivered from Belfast and how they have contributed to stopping the brain drain from Northern Ireland with promising talent opting to work locally James Bardrick added, “If I can get a great job, which doesn’t feel like a provincial job, in a place I love with a lower cost of living than London, why wouldn’t I want to ‘live locally and work globally’?” The mantra is ‘Live locally, work globally’ on Regional Development Belfast

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in 2005, the phrase ‘levelling up’ had not yet entered the UK business or political vernacular.

Find out more about career opportunities at https://jobs.citi.com/belfastCiti:

“From apprenticeships to mentorships to those returning to work – and through training and ongoing opportunitiesdevelopment–wecontinue to seek out bright, enthusiastic professionals aspiring to build a career in financial services or find a supportive workplace environment to grow their potential,” Leigh adds. “We want people to build their careers here, not just apply for a job. We work closely with local universities and schools to identify future skills required for successful careers within the finance sector and nurture up-and-coming talent covering all levels from apprentices and graduates to experienced roles,” says Leigh.

in Northern Ireland shows how bringing globally-oriented roles centered around an organisation with a strong focus on driving local engagement, ensuring the future talent pipeline, and ensuring a high level of job satisfaction can not only deliver growth and success for the company but can also improve the communities in which they operate.

Eye on Regional Development

Citi’s apprenticeship recruitment increased by 70 percent in 2021 and it brings in over 100 people on graduate recruitment programmes every year whilst also aiming to work with even younger people to encourage students into careers in technology and banking. “We are working to set up training for primary school teachers about how to integrate coding into the classroom,” he adds. As the national conversation continues to explore how employers can ‘level up’ by shifting operations to regional bases across the UK, Citi’s success

45 and it has been a key driver in talent acquisition and retention. Significant work has been done through the years to effectively engage with local stakeholders, promoting awareness of Citi’s role as an employer of choice and ensuring the strength of the talent pipeline as Citi Belfast continues to grow.

“Northern Ireland may be small in size, but it is big on success,” says Leigh. “Initially we recruited local talent from universities, but quickly recognised there was a broader talent pool to consider. With the opportunity to recruit such exceptional talent locally, we have grown to become a strategic delivery centre for many of our global businesses.”

While most companies are fearing the worst from the current energy price crisis, one local organisation looks as though it’s in the right place at the right time.

46 Eye on Energy STRATEGIC POWER –

The Right Offering At The Right Time

“Our offering is a simple one to understand,” says Managing Director Paul Carson. “We provide our client companies with solar energy installations or battery storage systems – or a combination of the two – at no cost to them, giving them the chance to at least partially offset the rapidly rising cost of energy.”

The company, formed just a couple of years ago, operates on an all-island basis and has already been very busy with installations south of the border, where larger-scale industrial operations have been quick to see the benefits of solar and battery power as the energy crisis deepens. “But it’s not just about cutting energy costs, important as that might be,” adds Paul Carson. “What we’re doing is all about sustainability. Solar power is one of the ultimate sustainable energy sources so our clients can make positive moves into sustainable energy whilst saving on costs at the same time. “We do all of the work for our clients,” he explains. “We’ll do the applications and look after the planning process, if that’s required.

While the early growth has been in the Republic, Paul Carson and his team see plenty of opportunities and potential customers here in Northern Ireland, and the company is ready and waiting to talk to anyone who’s interested. “We’re working with the early adopters at the moment,” he says. “But we’re well aware that there are a lot of organisations out there who could gain real benefits from what we’re offering. We’re not even scratching the surface yet. There is any amount of potential out there.”

“We do all of the work for our clients. We’ll do the applications and look after the planning process, if that’s required. We’ll complete all the installation work and we’ll secure the connection to the electricity grid.”

47 Strategic Power Projects & Strategic Power Connect are led by Co. Down entrepreneur Paul Carson, the man behind both Strategic Planning and Simple Power, and backed by London investment house Gresham House.

Strategic Power is a relatively small team of six based around the island of Ireland. It uses a number of expert contractors to carry out its installation and maintenance contracts. A new installation, from initial feasibility work through to operation, can typically take 10 months or so although planning permissions, if required, can add to that timescale. If another selling point is required, the Strategic Power Managing Director quickly provides one. “The global energy market is nothing if not volatile,” he says. “But, in solar power, we’re able to guarantee real security of supply going into the future. Our customers don’t need to be hostages to that volatility.”

Eye on Energy

We’ll complete all the installation work and we’ll secure the connection to the electricity grid.” Industrial energy users are facing the same challenges as domestic energy users at the moment, only on a much greater scale, says Paul Carson. “Tariffs are going up steadily and there’s no real prospect, that we can see, of that situation changing in the foreseeable future. “Already, even before the autumn and winter, we’ve heard talk of penalties to energy usage at peak times, and in the Republic, measures are already been taken to limit power use at data centres, which are major users of power.” But, even as prices rocket, the sustainability agenda remains firmly to the fore. “When we sit down with potential customers, we’re just as likely to meet with the sustainability manager as we are the financial director,” smiles Paul Carson. “We’ve had a pretty phenomenal uptake, particularly over the past number of months,” he adds. “It’s a great opportunity for businesses, particularly manufacturers and large users like cold stores or food processors, tick two very important boxes at one time.” When Strategic Power’s experts go in to a company, Paul explains, they’ll start by assessing the firm’s energy bills and usage in some detail. Then they’ll design a bespoke system, using solar power or combining solar power with BESS (battery energy storage systems) technology for the effective management of peak and off peak usage. Strategic Power’s solar and battery systems won’t provide all of the power needs of any company. “But we can replace between 30 and 35% of a company’s electricity supply. That can make a significant financial difference. What’s more, we’ll fix the cost of our power for 20 years. That’s a pretty good offer in this day and age,” says Paul Carson. “We build the installation, we own the installation and we operate the installation,” he says. “But the customer can reap the financial and sustainability benefits. Businesses don’t want to have to invest in energy systems and they don’t want to own those systems. Most businesses prefer to leave that to us, and to concentrate on what they’re good at.” But what are the potential savings? As things stand, Paul Carson estimates that solar power can be as much as 50% cheaper than power sourced from existing suppliers. And that percentage could look even better as traditional power sources become even more expensive, as they are predicted to do.

• Implementation of a Property Energy Strategy Action Plan • Creation of a Capital Fund to facilitate energy efficiency improvements to Council building stock Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Alderman Stephen Ross said: “I am pleased to be involved in the all-party group which is focused on sustainability in all its forms. It is important that the Council takes the lead in projects and initiatives that reduce our emissions, promote our environmental benefits and drive sustainable processes.” on Awards

Council In Line For Prestigious Business Award Over Efforts to Combat Climate Change

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough is the first Council in Northern Ireland to install EcoFill contactless water filling stations along their shorelines to reduce the amount of plastic bottles ending up in the marine environment.

• Installation of solar bins and bin sensors in key sites to increase capacity and reduce litter

The quality and quantity of work covered in a short period of time has seen the Council reaching the final of the Responsible Business Awards NI - Climate Action Award, for the organisation that best demonstrates a significant commitment and contribution to climate action in Northern Ireland, against a prestigious field. Evidence of the scale and ambition of the Council’s commitment was seen in its participation in the seminal United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 26) in Glasgow in 2021. Furthermore, plans are well under way to participate in the upcoming COP 27 in Egypt later this year.

• The first Council in Northern Ireland to install EcoFill contactless water filling stations along the shorelines to reduce the amount of plastic bottles ending up in the marine environment. Estimated that each station will save approximately 65,000 plastic bottles from going to into the waste stream each year

• Completion of Carbon Footprint Assessments for all Council premises, providing baseline information to enable improvements to be prioritised

• Reduction in consumptionenergyby11%

• Provision of a School Uniform Recycling Scheme, Muddy Boots sustainable food project, and an Eat Clever programme – focused on healthy eating and food waste reduction

•

So what does this commitment to climate change look like in reality?

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Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s commitment to tackling climate change has seen it shortlisted for a coveted business award.

Twitter: @ANBorough gov.ukantrimandnewtownabbey.Online: Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Alderman Stephen Ross said he is delighted that the Council has been shortlisted for the Responsible Business Awards NI – Climate Action Award.

•

48 Thanks to the leadership of an all-party working group of elected members, the Council has reached an important milestone in reducing its carbon footprint.

• Carbon Literacy training completed for elected members and staff

• Commitment to planting 1 million trees – 126,544 trees planted to date

• Adoption of a sustainable development approach to capital investment in infrastructure • Investment in Blue/Green Infrastructure and promotion of active travel to provide opportunities for residents to use safe off road routes for travel and improve connectivity between residential areas, employment hubs and town centres

• Reduction in consumptionwaterby36% Reduction in CO2 emissions by 17% These reductions have resulted in financial saving in one year of almost £260,000 Continued focus on building on successes in recycling • Antrim and Newtownabbey is the number 1 Council for recycling in Northern Ireland

Earlier this year, after the first announcement of funding, CASE allocated approximately £1m to four research projects involving Queen’s University, Ulster University, AFBI and 13 companies. The projects will investigate the production of bio-fuels from waste cooking oil; develop new technology for marine mammal observations around tidal energy deployments and aid with the decarbonisation of the agriculture sector through innovative nutrient management. The research impact and outcomes will benefit the project consortium and the wider Northern Ireland economy.

Further funding is now available to CASE Member companies through the Department for the Economy’s Green Innovation Challenge Fund. The fund aims to further the goals of the 10X Economic Vision and the Energy Strategy by:

CASE is an industry led, collaborative, sustainable energy research centre hosted at Queen’s University Belfast, partnering with Ulster University and the Agri Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI). This new £4.5million award will help progress Northern Ireland along the path to Net Zero Energy, as outlined in the NI Energy Strategy 2021.

• Encouraging green innovation in renewables and low carbon technologies;

• Assisting SMEs to gain the skills they need to engage in innovation activities;

• Assisting businesses to exploit new opportunities through the adoption of new technologies;

Speaking at the launch of the next round of funding, CASE Chairperson, Trevor Haslett CBE said, “Since it was established through the Invest NI competence centre programme, CASE has successfully bridged the gap between academic research offerings and industry research needs. Now we are seeking to go further and faster by being a facilitator to help alleviate the current energy crisis and move Northern Ireland further along the path to Net Zero. This next round of funding wil help a range of projects move forward and add their expertise to the mix. We wish all of those who apply for funding every success.”

CASE is seeking applications from suitably qualified consortia for research and development funding to support the decarbonisation of the energy system.

Further details on the funding criteria are available www.case-research.netat

• Providing advisory services and support to assist companies in understanding innovation and developing their innovative capabilities;

The Centre for Advanced Sustainable Energy (CASE) is pleased to announce that it has been selected to manage the Green Innovation Challenge Fund (GICF) on behalf of the Department for the NorthernEconomyIreland.

• Ocean energy – wave, tidal, offshore wind, floating solar

Centre For Advanced Sustainable Energy Issues Call For Applications To Green Innovation Challenge Fund

• Fostering collaboration and partnership working between industry, academia and other civic institutions.

• Energy systems – community / local energy, grid stabilisation, ancillary and distribution system operator services, demand side management, integrated supply chains and Power-to-X Trevor Haslett concluded, “We would particularly welcome Pathfinder project applications which tackle technical, environmental, policy and social acceptance barriers in technologies which have been verified to TRL 6. These projects should aim to realise significant impacts across the wider supply chain, involve researchers from both technical and social science subject areas and may involve funding requests in excess of £375k.”

49 Eye on Sustainability

• Providing support to businesses to engage in research and development so that they can continue to innovate and drive new commercial opportunities;

Proposals are sought from across the following research areas:

• Bio-energy – anaerobic digestion, biogas production, upgrading and bio-fuel production

Economy Minister Gordon Lyons said: “I welcome the success of the initial pilot of the Green Innovation Challenge Fund meaning we have been able to directly fund support for research and innovation to develop proposals from NI businesses on low carbon technologies helping to place us at the forefront of the energy transition. As recent global events have illustrated, the issue of securing an indigenous supply of low carbon or zero emission energy is more critical than ever. Diversifying our energy mix with new technologies in green hydrogen or developing low carbon synthetic alternatives to our everyday liquid fuels will increase our efficiency and move us forward on the path to be a zero carbon economy.”

50 In 2020 and 2021 leading business advisers GMcG Chartered Accountants advised on 24 transactions across a range of sectors to buyers based in Ireland, the United Kingdom and internationally. The deals included the disposal of eleven SME businesses, eight acquisitions as well as five management buyouts (“MBOs”). This resulted in GMcG Chartered Accountants being ranked the Number 1 Corporate Finance Adviser in Northern Ireland in the 2020 Experian Deal and Adviser League Table for M&A Activity and Number 4 in the 2021 Experian Deal and Adviser League Table. Key to this success has been the experience and expertise of GMcG’s Corporate Finance and Tax teams, combining to deliver the best possible outcome for businesses and their owners. For business owners considering a sale or MBO, a common initial question is ‘When is the right time to sell?’ Robbie Milliken, Director of GMcG’s Corporate Finance team, shares his insights into how businesses can best approach this question: “Business owners should constantly keep their exit strategy and succession planning under consideration as economic and business landscapes continue to evolve.

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In addition, the length of time and often emotional

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO SELL?GMcGDirectorsRobbieMilliken and Lyn Canning Hagan discuss some of the key Corporate Finance and Tax businessconsiderationsrelatedforowners. on Corporate Finance

“Where a strong management team exists, it is natural to consider an MBO in the first instance, especially if the management team is comprised of family members of the current owners.”

Eye on Corporate Finance

51 energy required to sell a business can be underestimated and it is imperative that the owners continue to focus on their key operations to ensure they maintain the value of the business. As a result, careful strategic planning is required to maximise the return and to ensure a smooth process to a successful completion. It is important for the owners to understand their core value drivers, such as key contracts and recurring revenue and take steps where possible to protect these. In addition, a well-prepared information memorandum highlighting the key attributes of the business supported by well-presented financial records and other key documentation are crucial to the successful completion of a transaction.”

Robbie Milliken, Director, Corporate Finance

When considering an exit strategy the owners should take time to consider who may be interested in acquiring their business. GMcG has a proven track record of successfully identifying potential acquirers using its strong network of contacts locally and further afield as well as being able to access members within the TAG Alliances Corporate and M&A Group, a worldwide Alliance of Independent Accounting Firms (TIAG®) and Independent Legal Firms uncommonFurthermore,(TAGLaw®).itisnotforthebuyer to be a business well known to the owners. Robbie Milliken adds: “In many cases well known competitors and key suppliers have been in contention to acquire the business. Additionally, where a strong management team exists, it is natural to consider an MBO in the first instance, especially if the management team is comprised of family members of the current owners. This is a predominant feature of many Northern Ireland SME businesses.”

Business owners should also review the tax implications of a sale as part of their exit strategy and understand the importance of involving a corporate tax adviser early in the strategic process.

Lyn Canning Hagan, Director, Tax & VAT Solutions

Regardless of the exit strategy, be it a sale to a third party or an MBO, it is crucial that the owners consider their business from the buyer’s viewpoint. This should involve undertaking a robust market analysis and a realistic assessment of market share, growth, competition response and underlying economic conditions as well as the senior management team’s ability. This will be key to helping the owners develop a realistic valuation of their business.

GMcG’s Tax team, headed up by Lyn Canning Hagan and with many years of experience in M&A transactions and corporate re-organisations, is well placed to assist businesses at this time. Lyn Canning Hagan outlines the importance of taking tax advice early and throughout the process: “Early engagement with a tax adviser can have a significant positive impact on planning for an exit strategy and maximising the business owner’s value from the business. An in-depth discussion and review with the business owner in relation to their business and personal goals and objectives will include addressing a range of key areas from a tax perspective. It is important to ensure that the business structure is commercially optimised for sale and to avail of various tax reliefs.

For more information, contact Robbie Milliken on millikenr@ gmcgca.com; or Lyn Canning Hagan on 028gmcgca.comhaganl@gmcgca.com90311113

Involvement of a tax adviser with commercial awareness and experience in M&A transactions and corporate re-organisations at the various stages of a transaction itself is also important; from the Heads of Terms, through the due diligence process to the sale agreement tax warranties and tax covenant review brings added value to a transaction. “ Choosing an adviser with the right levels of experience, contacts and expertise can be pivotal to the smooth and successful completion of a sale or MBO arrangement. GMcG’s Corporate Finance and Tax teams have a wealth of experience in managing transactions from start to finish on the owner’s behalf, affording them more time to focus on the core operations of their business.

Barry explains: “The Musgrave Group is a 7th generation familyowned business, now 146 years old, and Growing Good Business is our fundamental purpose. We are committed to creating a sustainable, profitable business that benefits our shareholders, our people, our retail partners, the local communities we serve, and the wider economy.

Joining Musgrave in 2005 as a regional manager, Barry has been an integral part of business development since 2015 and his focus is clear: to drive the Musgrave retail brands in Northern Ireland and welcome entrepreneurs who want to be part of the largest convenience retail group on the island of Ireland.

Centra retailer Sinead Farrell, expanded her business with a brand-new store in February this year. She shares her experience of working with Musgrave NI.

She continues: “The process with both sites was smooth and we received great support from start to finish, from the design teams to the store facilitation teams which helped us get the stores ready and open to trade. Since opening, both stores have exceeded all our expectations and sales are in a really strong place. Thanks to Musgrave for the support and here’s to continued growth of the brand together.”

Barry adds: “The Stewartstown Road site was previously derelict but being on an extremely busy road and in an area of high population, we identified it as a site with fantastic potential, and a great opportunity for an existing retail partner to increase both their and our store portfolio.”

“I have been with Musgrave now for eight years with our first store Centra Boucher Road, opening in January 2004 and our second store Centra Stewartstown Road, in February 2022. The sites were presented to us through the Musgrave Business Development team who were able to show us strong facts and figures around the potential of the sites and plans for what they might look like,” says Sinead.

With award-winning brands under their belt, Musgrave NI is set on growing its store network further and Barry and his team, are keen to discuss opportunities with interested entrepreneurs, both retailers and commercial operators alike. “We are always on the look-out for new opportunities – whether that’s identifying a greenfield site for a new development, changing the use of an existing business or competitor conversions – and would encourage any interested parties to get in touch.” on Retail MUSGRAVE NI:

“Redefining retail is our mantra. We have a £14m store investment programme underway this year alongside a £5.6m investment in value, helping shoppers manage the increasing cost of living. We spend £160m annually on local food and drink; and we have exclusive food-togo brands including Moo’d Ice-Cream, Green Kitchen and Rotisserie Chicken. The acquisition of Drinks Inc in 2019 also means exclusivity on alcohol ranges for the Musgrave network while our gourmet coffee brand, Frank and Honest, is the number one on-the-go coffee brand on the Island of Ireland. We also recently announced a £2.7m sustainability fund for our retailers aimed at empowering them to achieve net zero carbon by 2040.” Along with his team, Barry is continually seeking opportunities to help existing retail partners develop and grow their business. “Our retail partners are the life blood of our business and supporting them to ensure their success is core to our operations. We have seen many partners grow their portfolios from one store to two, three or four stores – this level of growth and loyalty reflects the strength of our brands,” Barry explains.

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Ambitiously focused Musgrave NI is ambitiously focused on pursuing new commercial opportunities and acquisitions to grow its food retail brands – SuperValu, Centra and Mace. New Business and Acquisitions Manager Barry Holland, discusses the opportunities available.

Barry can be contacted on 07795 965204 or via barry.holland@musgrave.ieemail

Want to convert or sell? Talk to Musgrave - the leading retail experts. Whether you’re looking to convert, sell your business, freehold or leasehold, talk to us. We’re an award-winning driving new opportunities for growth. Our strong track record for building better brands is highly recognised. In fact, our Frank and Honest on-the-go coffee brand is now the largest on the island of Ireland. Denis McLaughlin, Business Development Manager denismc@musgrave.ie | 07881 938374 Barry Holland, New Business and Acquisitions Manager Musgrave barry.holland@musgrave.ieNI | 07795 965204 Terence Lagan, Business Development Manager terence.lagan@musgrave.ie | 07775 009699 215 CENTRA AND MACE IN N.I. 4.5m CUPS SOLD IN N.I. IN 2021WINNINGAWARDBRANDSINVESTMENT£26mINSTORENETWORK2022/2023INCL.NEWSTORES GROUP TURNOVER £ £ INVESTED£5.6mINVALUEIN2022

54 The Irish-owned pizza chain, established in 1986, currently operates 42 outlets in the Republic of Ireland and 14 in Northern Ireland but Hughes, and a new senior management team, have set their sights on bringing the total number of FSP stores to more than 100 by 2025.

“Add the current situation in Ukraine and a cost-of-living crisis into the mix and, as far as the wider business environment goes, we’re currently in the midst of a perfect storm but the frontline feedback from our franchisee base remains positive with sales volumes and average transaction spends holding up well.

Star Pizza CEO Colin Hughes Four Star Pizza’s new CEO Colin Hughes has revealed plans to open 45 new stores and create 900 new jobs on the island of Ireland over the next three years. Eye on News

These include a focus on franchisee training, quality control, menu improvements, new product development and innovation, brand refreshment, store refurbishments, delivery options, enhancing the company’s digital proposition and – crucially – securing all-important supply chains which have been significantly impacted by global events. “Whilst we are excited by our growth plans, we’re under no illusions that the road ahead will not be easy, as we continue to operate in the most challenging of business environments,” continued Colin. “Global supply chains are under pressure and, while consumer demand remains strong, the impact of Covid19, Brexit and the war in Eastern Europe continues to impact on supply chains. Recruitment, especially in the hospitality industry, is very difficult, freight markets are unbalanced, and price inflation is increasing all the time. “One of the most important aspects of my role to date has been to review our supply chains and work with our key suppliers to ensure continuity of supply across all products, including flour, cheese, proteins and packaging.

“In just a few months you could own a brand new business, built around a highly successful model and with all the support you need from a team of business experts to help you to recruit, manage, grow and thrive in your chosen town or city,” he added.

“As purse strings tighten across the country, the convenience, affordability and value for money that Four Star Pizza provides, without compromising on quality, has provided a platform from which we can expand to satisfy increasing demand from our loyal and ever-growing customer base. “From the outset, my priority was to carry out a full review of the business and speak to each and every one of our valued franchisees, who have been amazing in helping me understand the many facets and challenges of running one of the country’s biggest franchisee networks.

Four

Aside from company expansion, Hughes has targeted a number of other areas to accelerate Four Star’s forward momentum and continue improving the quality of its products and services to customers.

According to Colin Hughes, interested parties do not need any previous pizza experience as Four Star Pizza will provide all the necessary training in food preparation, accounts, customer service, delivery and marketing.

The proposed timeframe for this expansion includes the opening of four new stores this year with a further 16 in 2023 and 25 more in 2024.

Currently the company is engaged in a proactive campaign to identify new store locations and recruit potential franchisees.

New CEO reveals Four Star Pizza growth plans

“The good news, from a Four Star Pizza point of view, is that we are operating from a position of strength, having just enjoyed our best year to date in 2021*, and having carried out a data-driven location analysis of our business, I am very excited at the potential to grow the business across many areas, not least geographically,” he added.

An average of 20 jobs per store will see the company create a total of 900+ new jobs during this period.

“It’s been an extremely busy, but very productive, first few months in the job,” explained Colin. “Our ultimate goal is for virtually everyone in Ireland, north and south, to have access to a local Four Star Pizza outlet, and the road to achieving that has already started.

“Even if someone is currently running another franchise but is thinking of a change, we would encourage them to get in touch to hear about our exciting plans,“ concluded Colin.

“There’s no point in creating demand if you’re not in a position to meet it, so that has been a priority for us and we are now well positioned to move ahead with our expansion plans.”

With a wealth of senior executive experience for a host of major hospitality-based companies, Lurgan-born Hughes took over the role of CEO for Four Star Pizza (Ireland) in January this year. Following a root-and-branch review of Four Star’s business, he has identified several areas for growth, setting a target to open an additional 27 stores in the Republic and a further 18 in the North.

“We’re on the hunt for any potential entrepreneurs with a good business brain to consider joining our growing network and becoming part of a progressive company with a very strong brand,” continued Hughes.

“Becoming a Four Star Pizza franchisee requires a lot of commitment but we are here to help and we offer an extensive training programme to enable franchisees to reach the required levels in terms of operations, marketing and customer service.

Eye on News

“As well as being home to the world-renowned Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and many of the world’s leading technology companies, Boston is a market we already have a clear insight into,” says MCS Managing Director Barry Smyth. “Belfast’s links with Boston are strong in the technology sector, with many firms from Massachusetts and the wider New England area operating in Northern Ireland today, while the cities also have a shared culture and history in a wider sense. Our US clients have seen the benefit of working with MCS locally and many now want us to support their businesses in the US, not just NI, so this expansion is really built on client demand.“

55 The firm which specialises in placing people in sectors including technology, finance, manufacturing, marketing and professional services says the decision to expand across the Atlantic was based on client demand and the similarities between Belfast and Boston.

“The US, and Boston specifically, are home to many recruiting firms,” says Mr Quinn. “We are aiming to raise the sector’s game by applying new levels of service quality. MCS and the team in Belfast have dedicated their work to a quality, consultative approach to truly help their clients build out the best possible teams and that type of dedication and service level is exactly what we aim to bring to Boston.”

AMERICAINTOFIRMRECRUITMENTBELFASTEXPANDSNORTH

Established 14 years ago, MCS Group has established itself as Northern Ireland’s leading specialist recruitment agency. “Our mission has been to raise the bar, set the standard, and be the benchmark for specialist recruitment in today’s world. It is this desire to provide exceptional service levels to clients regardless of where they are based, which has led us to this point and the opening of our new office in Boston, Massachusetts,” says Mr Smyth.

MCS occupies a central role in the growth and success of the tech sector in Northern Ireland, championing talent and Belfast as a Centre of Excellence.

Leading Northern Ireland specialist recruitment company MCS Group, which employs over 75 people in Belfast, has opened its first international branch in Boston, Massachusetts.

Barry Smyth and Ryan Quinn, MCS.

The firm says it will use its considerable knowledge and skill developed in building and scaling technology teams over the past 14 years to assist New England’s technology companies to continue to flourish.

The Boston office will be led by Ryan Quinn, who takes up the new position of Regional Vice President, and is currently being supported by a small team of staff, with further recruitment ongoing. Having joined from US firm Eliassen Group, where he was Practice Director of Recruiting, Ryan will be responsible for emulating the MCS standard for clients, consultants and candidates alike. Focusing initially on the New England and wider east coast market, MCS is partnering with and supporting clients in the Fintech, Healthtech and Cleantech industries.

56 O

Getting your quality right as a differentiator is critical to business success and Nick Coburn, Managing Director at Ulster Carpets, explains why quality is such an important factor to success, “Manufacturing a high value product such as ours places a considerable emphasis on quality, both in terms of our carpet and our service. We consistently deliver these high standards by being in complete control of every step of the manufacturing process.

f course, for any business to succeed, it needs money. However, to focus on the bottom line as the sole method of evaluating success, is a mistake.

“We feel that the high levels of repeat business that we enjoy from customers across the world speaks volumes about the high standards that we set. This, in turn, ensures that we can continue to reinvest and build for the future.”

By BDO NI Senior Partner, Nigel Harra and Partner, Laura Jackson

The way in which Ulster Carpets engage with its customers is exceptional, and underpinning that engagement is a product of the highest quality. Quality measurement can be found throughout all aspects of the customer journey.

Denroy, Tobermore and Henderson Group to see what performance measures they value and how these have helped their businesses thrive.

Quality Matters

You should go beyond the numbers and see the skills and experience that creates impact. Focusing only on profit without considering other success measures is outdated.

The BDO NI Audit team, under partners Nigel Harra and Laura Jackson, has been collaborating with clients to consider the health of the business beyond profitability. There are many key learnings to be shared in the way our leading businesses have driven growth against a backdrop of climate emergency, technological advances, and a changing workforce. We talked to a number of our clients including Ulster Carpets, Henry Brothers,

At BDO NI, we seek to measure quality by a Net Promoter Score survey. The results of which between 2020 and 2022 to date, when asked to score the firm out of 10, 97% of our responding clients scored us 8 or above in relation Management THE TRUE MEASURE OF SUCCESS: Measuring what matters

Eye on

Success is both a journey and a destination, the strategic points of qualitative advantage are what is measured in these organisations and they are motivational for everyone involved.

Partnering with the Belfast Chamber, our “Rethinking Doing Business; a Sustainability Awareness” survey showed that whilst nearly all companies acknowledged the importance of climate change (91%), 60% admitted to not adapting quickly enough to the challenges presented by climate change.

Their commitment to their ESG is showcased further by the 28 International, National and Local Environmental Awards won since 2014 including the 2021 Business in the Community Northern Ireland Responsible Company of the Year Award.

Businesses were forced to think about identifying new products, new markets, and new ways of managing supply chains that were for significant periods of time halted or at the very least disrupted. To do this, it is vital that businesses are able to assess their own situation which will allow them to identify areas of development and improvement. Leading engineering company, Denroy Group are no strangers to adapting to the changing environment, with a key focus on understanding the organisations current strengths and weaknesses before working towards delivering innovative solutions.

“Driven by a determination to provide world-class products and excellent customer service, staff are always looking ahead to the latest technologies and advancements in the sector and are encouraged to ‘think outside the box’ and introduce new technologies to improve the customer experience.

A direct output of this has been the recent introduction of new online tools to enhance both customer experience and how we work internally as a team.”

“There is very much a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and inclusivity at Tobermore which creates a motivated and engaged team who feel empowered to be part of the company’s journey of success.”

“At Henderson Group, we recognise this vital dynamic, and in recent years have focused on how we can further improve employee engagement across our businesses.

CEO, Kevin McNamee explains, “The system we use is based on the EFQM model, the basis of which is to first of all understand who our stakeholders are. It is then critical to understand their expectations of us and finally to understand their perception of our performance. Without understanding their perceptions against expectation, we cannot implement our continuous improvement activities.”

“Engagement isn’t just about being satisfied, rather being totally immersed in the values and culture of an organisation, and we have placed great emphasis on engaging with our colleagues to help them understand both what we want to achieve, as well as how we want to do so.”

If you would like to talk to the BDO NI team about how we can support your business, talk to us via 02890439009 and visit our website www.bdoni.com

Social Impact Incorporating your Environmental, Social and Governance agenda into your business strategy can provide real value to your business. Whether this is through optimising more sustainable products, reducing operational costs through lower energy consumption, attracting talent through a strong social reputation, creating a priority for a unifying organisational culture, or investing in sustainable equipment for example.

Tobermore, one of Northern Ireland’s leading manufacturers, also understands the importance of a continuous innovative culture to its overall success.

“Well Aware”, an internal brand for health and wellbeing was part of Henderson Group’s wellbeing vision. Sam Davidson, Group Human Resources Director at Henderson Group, explains the importance of taking care of your employees and the positive impact it can have, “Notwithstanding the very challenging skills shortages which many businesses currently face, it’s indisputable that organisations who have high levels of employee engagement also have great customer satisfaction scores.

It’s about quality; trust and having the right team that can build strong relationships that make people want to do business with you. Taking a step back from the bottom line allows us to see the full picture. It enables us to see the all the reasons why businesses succeed and how to best measure their impact in all its forms.

Eye on Management

Recently celebrating 80 years in business and the opening of a new £8.6m factory to expand production, Paul Shields, Financial Controller explains how this unique aspect of the award-winning firm is a key factor in its remarkable growth.

One company that takes ESG credentials to the heart of its operations is Henry Brothers. Ian Henry, CSR Director, outlines how over two decades the organisation had this proactively on the agenda. “We have a long history of implementing environmentally beneficial initiatives, including founding the Sustainability Professionals Forum, creating a Carbon Literacy Training Programme, and developing the Henry Brothers Nature Reserve.

“For example, to continue to innovate and progress it is vital that we understand how we deliver on quality, cost and delivery for our customers.

57 to recommending us. This quality of service is a key indicator of success for any company and through this measure we have found our clients trust our team and our service.

Through third party certification and a significant level of engagement with customers we are able to measure and evaluate our performance against our KPIs and respond as a direct result”.

Being a responsible employer will inevitably lead to employees driving the success of your business. Recently, BDO NI launched its new Agile Working Framework aimed at supporting our 150 employees to have a sustainable work life balance aimed at delivering longterm benefits for both the business and employee. This framework, which was developed in consultation with staff puts trust on employees to continue to deliver on behalf of the company and our clients whilst facilitating the flexibility that we all need in our daily lives.

Continuous Innovative Culture Adapting and innovating to new ways of working and engaging has become a necessity for companies in recent times.

A key value for BDO NI is to be a responsible employer, providing opportunities for growth and development for our teams, including prospective new recruits. BDO cultivates the next generation of leaders through its summer placements, with 13 of this year’s 26 interns already recruited to join the firm permanently following the completion of their studies.

A recipient of the Corporate Social Responsibility Award at the 2022 Irish News Workplace and Employment Awards, the culture at Henderson Group lends itself to employees making the connection between career development opportunities and business engagement which has no doubt positively impacted the Group’s phenomenal success.

BDO NI has also adapted to the changing environment, investing in new client collaboration and communication tools, allowing us to service our clients more innovatively. While focusing on transparency and delivering client value, this investment in technology makes the service we provide unique to each client and their requirements.

“Our Journey to Net Zero will be achieved through working with our stakeholders to drive environmental change and involves initiatives such as investing in 100% hybrid/electric cars by 2025, the widespread use of eco-cabins by 2025, and enhancing our biodiversity by 2% a year.” In doing so, Henry Brothers have measured the impact of a successful ESG strategy on a company’s opportunities and business resilience.

Employee Engagement and Wellbeing

when in fact they do not require that employee to undertake the work on a consistent basis. With regard to limitation, the case of Harpur does not address the issue. However, the case of Chief Constable of the Police Service for Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Policing Board v Agnew and others does. The Court in this case failed to give a concrete limitation date for claiming holiday pay, but as a guide it encouraged the parties to agree a “pragmatic, administrationfriendly method for calculating and paying “normal pay” based on averages taken over a rolling 12-month period immediately preceding the period of leave”. Employers should therefore pro-actively identify possible instances where there has been a potential underpayment and come to a sensible compromise with the employee to rectify this. McKees was established in 1887 and employs 58 staff in its Belfast office. The firm specialises in corporate and commercial, financial services, commercial property and dispute resolution. One of Northern Ireland’s leading commercial law firms, McKees, is advising businesses who employ term-time, zero hours or part-year workers to check their contracts following a recent Supreme Court judgment in the case of Harpur Trust v Brazel upholding the Court of Appeal’s decision that partyear workers should not have their paid holiday apportioned.

holidayshakesjudgmentCourtSupremeuppay

Previously it was argued that the statutory entitlement to annual leave should be apportioned for an employee working fewer weeks than the standard 46.4 week working year. However, the Supreme Court stated that the Working Time Regulations 1998 did not allow for apportioning of holiday pay for permanent employees.

Firstly, they should try and avoid situations where employees are employed on a full-time contract of employment but work a vastly greater number of hours at a peak time. Avoiding long periods where an employee undertakes no work will help reduce the possibility of absurd results as the employer must ignore periods where no work is carried out for the purposes of holiday pay

Andrea McCann inmckees-law.com)ismccann@mckees-law.com)(andrea.aPartneratMcKees(www.specialisingemploymentlaw.

58 Eye on Law Andrea McCann is a Partner specialising in employment law at McKees said: “This decision is likely to have a significant impact on any businesses who employ term-time, zero hours or partyear workers as the case settled the dispute on what the correct method is for calculating holiday pay for employees who only work for certain parts of the year.”

asswitchingthehavecalculations.ofreduceproportionalwouldtheanandhourshourlylookFurthermore,calculations.employersmayatthoseemployeesonanratewhoworkvaryingdependingontheseasonsdecidetoinsteadpaythemannualisedsalarywhichissameeverymonth.ThiscurbthepotentialforunfairnessandtheadministrativeburdenhavingtoundertakeweeklyEmployersalsotheoptionofchangingcontractofemployment,toazero-hoursmodelopposedtoafull-timecontract

“For employers in Northern Ireland, this decision is applicable to an employee who is deemed to have no regular working hours under (s. 20 of the Employment Rights (NI) Order 1996). For these employees, employers must now change how they calculate holiday pay in order for it to comply with the decision in Harpur,”Andrea continued. The correct formula to calculate holiday is the Calendar week method, this involves calculating the average of all the remuneration earned in the previous 12 weeks by the employee. If in the last 12 weeks, no remuneration was paid on any given week, the employer must ignore these weeks and must instead take account of earlier weeks where remuneration was paid to calculate the 12-week average. This is notably different from the provision in England which uses a 52-week average calculation period which was introduced on 6th April 2020. For those staff employed permanently but have irregular or part time hours the decision could lead to them receiving a proportionally greater sum of holiday pay than a full-time member of staff. To avoid this, employers have several potential steps available to them.

59 Sponsored by onprofit 200 Eye 200 Information supplied by

The return of a more “business as usual” environment is also reflected in the number of companies switching banks – in fact, so far this year we’ve seen 50 medium and large business customers move to Danske, a marked increase in the level of re-banking activity compared to last year. We know they’re attracted by our appetite to lend, the quality of our relationship managers and local support teams, and the convenience of our digital channels. In May, for example, we became the first bank in the UK to create a digital solution that lets business customers view all of their accounts and payments across multiple banks in one place. Through our online business banking platform, District, businesses can now get a full overview of their finances and gain a single point of entry to their accounts and transactions, including those of other banks. Customers have loved this new proposition because it makes life easier for them. And there is more to come, as we continue to invest in and develop our digital offering for businesses.

Sustainability may have seemed less important to some at the height of the pandemic, but recent extreme weather has reminded us that companies can no longer afford to ignore their climate impacts. We’re committed to helping customers become more sustainable, both through offering greener products and through the sharing of knowledge.

NI challengesofresilientcompaniesinfaceongoing

The pandemic, the world of hybrid work, and the cost of living crisis have created new challenges for businesses and like many organisations, we’ve learned that we have to be able to change and adapt to be successful.

60 Eye on TProfit200

It’s incumbent on companies in all sectors to show they are being proactive on sustainability not only because it’s the right thing to do, but also because it’s something prospective employees increasingly prioritise. It’s a competitive job market for many of the sectors represented in the Profit 200 and we know that both recruitment and retention are a challenge for all businesses, with tech and other professional services reporting severe skills shortages.

By Shaun McAnee, Managing Director of Corporate & Business Banking, Danske Bank

So far, 25 of our business customers have taken part in the Climate Action Programme, which Danske co-developed with Business in the Community NI to help firms take stock of their carbon impact and put plans into action to reduce them. All Danske’s relationship managers have also been through climate training with Business in the Community, enabling them to help our customers make more informed choices.

The annual Business Eye Profit 200 list of the most profitable companies in Northern Ireland provides an excellent barometer of how our best private sector businesses are performing. I have the privilege of introducing the feature again, and would like to use this opportunity to congratulate all of the companies featured on this list.

he figures are reflective, in many cases, of a year in which many businesses’ results were impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, not to mention ongoing uncertainty over new postBrexit trading arrangements, global supply chain issues and rising costs. We’ve been proactively helping many of our own customers to navigate these challenges and I’ve been heartened by the high number of business customers who have continued to actively pursue growth opportunities over the past year – including many names familiar to the Profit 200. That appetite for growth amongst our customers has driven our own performance, with the bank reporting over £400m in lending approvals to businesses in the first half of this year. Trade finance, invoice finance, asset finance and currency management activity are all up significantly too.

We’ve placed a high importance on leadership development, on connecting our people and improving wellbeing. And we’ve been working hard to make sure we’re a great place to work in which everyone feels that they belong, supporting our colleagues’ personal and professional development and creating different pathways into a career with Danske, such as Danske Futures, our degree-led apprenticeship programme. Having been named an ‘outstanding’ place to work in the UK-wide Best Companies workplace engagement survey, we are continuously listening to our employees, and importantly, acting on that feedback. While the economy has bounced back from the pandemic, the outlook for the UK remains very uncertain. We can’t ignore that there are many challenges still facing all local companies, among them, rising costs for energy and materials, wage pressures, the impact of inflation on the cost of living and consumer confidence, and supply chain disruption related to the war in Ukraine. The effects of some of these challenges are likely to be reflected in next year’s Profit 200 list. It is in these times that businesses need a good financial partner, which has scale in the market and locally based relationship managers ready and available to provide expertise and advice. Danske Bank will continue to play a key role in supporting the wider economy and we remain resolute in our commitment to work with our customers to navigate whatever challenges lie ahead.

61 Eye on Profit200 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) 1 Randox Laboratories Ltd 30/06/21 219,318 547,701 44,415 181,032 1582 2 Schrader Electronics Ltd 31/12/20 97,700 230,250 36,800 287,872 1094 3 Northern Ireland Electric. Networks 31/12/21 87,100 297,000 92,700 302,200 1208 4 Qubis Ltd 31/07/21 82,747 1,657 77,225 1,552 5 Moy Park Ltd 31/12/20 82,656 1,458,445 70,033 1,50,444 9934 6 Almac Group Ltd 30/09/21 80,782 735,071 63,550 677,254 5783 7 Power NI Energy Ltd 31/03/21 80,500 717,700 24,600 662,200 411 8 Northern Bank Ltd 31/12/21 61,269 200,000 13,077 200,005 1295 9 Encirc Ltd 31/12/20 58,564 335,667 39,602 326,959 1338 10 Northern Ireland Water Ltd 31/03/21 58,200 418,906 84,500 429,100 1321 11 LCC Group Holdings Ltd 30/09/21 53,835 848,972 28,765 717,842 345 12 W.& R. Barnett Ltd 31/07/21 51,289 1,274,825 43,742 1,135,843 1684 13 Herbert Corp.holdings Ltd * 31/12/20 46,728 45,411 29,833 190,458 618 14 Moyola (Cellars) Ltd ** 31/10/21 44,739 2,514 -14,655 25,124 12 15 Kainos Software Ltd 31/03/21 43,761 150,611 19,016 114,330 776 16 Ulsterbus Ltd 28/03/21 35,721 141,664 -31,493 109,035 2180 17 FP McCann Group Ltd 31/12/21 34,041 342,104 20,617 259,320 1592 18 Terex GB Ltd 31/12/20 33,442 318,381 59,232 429,490 1757 19 SSE Airtricity Energy Supply (NI) Ltd 31/03/21 28,608 220,937 10,677 226,395 102 20 John Henderson (Holdings) Ltd 31/12/20 28,495 956,647 32,340 918,062 4171 * Business Disposal ** Exceptional Profit Information supplied by

62 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) 21 Gardrum Holdings Ltd 31/12/20 28,439 145,619 25,177 143,741 151 22 Fourds Ltd 30/04/21 27,374 101,899 1,972 13,675 117 23 Coca-Cola HBC Northern Ireland Ltd 31/12/20 27,215 204,739 8,651 232,100 450 24 MRP Land Ltd 30/09/21 26,940 83,394 22,198 96,410 35 25 Westland Horticulture Ltd 29/08/21 25,612 254,035 14,531 208,034 849 26 SHS Group Ltd 01/01/21 23,140 655,568 19,566 569,981 1210 27 Brett Martin Holdings Ltd 31/12/20 22,973 194,765 7,202 165,431 1077 28 Eakin Healthcare Group Ltd 31/03/21 22,262 102,119 22,749 88,761 552 29 Hilton Foods UK Ltd 03/01/21 21,569 694,373 17,014 546,703 1153 30 Ballyvesey Industries 30/09/21 19,297 667,726 537 613,112 2,257 31 John Graham Holdings Ltd 31/03/22 19,026 948,320 12,133 808,097 2212 32 Fane Valley Co-Op 30/09/21 18,796 209,913 14,275 190,612 183 33 Tobermore Concrete Products Ltd 30/04/21 18,741 67,040 10,745 48,218 380 34 Ge Grid Solutions (Uk) Ltd 31/12/20 18,134 51,550 14,214 51,679 253 35 Huhtamaki Foodservice Delta Ltd 31/12/20 18,055 100,391 3,460 62,282 557 36 Sever eld (NI) Ltd 31/03/21 17,516 181,990 16,488 139,263 341 37 Hilton Foods Ltd 03/01/21 17,360 20,586 34 38 Coolkeeragh ESB Ltd 31/12/20 17,048 126,678 26,470 137,419 39 Norbrook Laboratories Ltd 30/07/21 16,639 195,649 2,900 167,657 1459 40 Moyle Interconnector Ltd 31/03/21 16,527 34,489 11,611 30,641 10 Eye on Profit200 Information supplied by

63 Eye on Profit200 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) 41 McAleer & Rushe Const. Contr. Uk 31/12/21 15,019 400,534 8,686 290,053 359 42 Mantlin Ltd 31/12/21 14,995 21,611 8,166 15,615 4 43 Heron Bros. Ltd 31/08/20 14,535 128,379 5,433 106,851 281 44 William Keys & Sons Ltd 31/12/20 14,013 89,872 23 45 Mutual Energy Ltd 31/03/21 13,169 78,088 11,160 72,044 30 46 Citybus Ltd 28/03/21 12,836 64,068 -16,273 43,398 876 47 EP Kilroot Ltd 31/12/20 12,781 111,887 -1,122 105,092 91 48 ERE LPS Holdings Ltd 31/12/21 12,383 28,880 -9,063 15,273 4 49 Nelipak Healthcare Packaging Ltd 31/12/20 11,474 66,597 10,335 68,459 279 50 Andor Technology Ltd 31/03/21 11,116 57,545 17,122 63,810 264 51 Phoenix Natural Gas Ltd 31/12/20 10,999 63,538 16,817 62,682 122 52 Gilbert-Ash Holdings Ltd 31/12/20 10,963 176,156 5,602 163,089 174 53 N.I.I.B. Group Ltd 31/12/20 10,958 86,936 33,807 135 54 Kilwaughter Minerals Ltd 30/04/21 10,868 39,645 4,259 35,693 177 55 Seagate Technology (Ireland) 02/07/21 10,475 136,579 10,283 10,283 1,557 56 B.H.C. Ltd 31/03/22 10,175 96,445 9,273 65,022 403 57 SSE Airtricity Gas Supply (NI) Ltd 31/03/21 10,064 106,342 5,536 122,741 83 58 Hunter’s Hill Wind Farm Ltd 31/12/21 9,732 21,919 1,389 13,387 59 Lin eld Properties Ltd 31/07/21 9,639 2,173 -1,256 1,622 10 60 Premier Transmission Ltd 31/03/21 9,516 28,126 5,842 25,121 14 Information supplied by

64 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) 61 Kilwaughter Holdings Ltd 30/04/21 9,379 42,870 5,381 38,484 190 62 Hotpursuit Enterprises Ltd 31/12/20 9,296 16,878 3,838 24,667 292 63 Foyle Food Group Ltd 01/01/21 9,229 381,860 5,179 370,737 1342 64 Walter Watson Ltd 31/12/21 9,068 65,823 5,056 52,038 217 65 McBurney Holdings Ltd 31/12/20 9,053 103,979 4,955 103,803 816 66 Orby Holdings Ltd 31/08/21 9,048 13,782 5,620 12,692 50 67 Crossbows Optical Ltd 31/12/20 9,037 10,589 2,461 4,211 29 68 Pharmapac Holdings Ltd 30/06/21 9,034 42,568 8,480 60,122 157 69 FD Technologies Public Ltd Company 28/02/22 8,999 263,463 11,147 237,867 2766 70 River Ridge Recycling (Portadown) Ltd 30/06/21 8,898 55,949 3,736 46,787 255 71 Allstate Northern Ireland Ltd 31/12/20 8,750 128,431 10,716 125,519 2298 72 Lidl Northern Ireland Ltd 28/02/21 8,627 345,380 2,077 278,194 1068 73 Corramore Holdings Ltd 30/08/21 8,515 28,732 3,246 16,138 25 74 Ready Egg Products Ltd 31/12/20 8,382 57,403 8,371 64,022 154 75 Carson Mcdowell Llp 30/04/21 8,246 17,135 6,986 15,737 153 76 Dale Farm Co-Op Ltd 31/03/21 8,241 523,710 9,772 504,528 1,218 77 Decora Blind Systems Ltd 31/12/20 8,134 88,181 6,456 82,784 1021 78 Forestview Trading Ltd 30/09/21 7,998 25,093 5,600 23,499 213 79 Isaac Agnew Ltd 31/12/20 7,846 292,698 8,623 330,448 655 80 Haldane Fisher Ltd 31/12/20 7,767 126,837 3,518 83,769 586 Eye on Profit200 Information supplied by

65 Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) Budget Energy Ltd 31/03/21 7,733 78,856 3,076 39,232 59 82 McBurney Transport Group Ltd 31/12/20 7,723 92,131 3,777 92,048 620 83 Cranswick Country Foods (Ballymena) 27/03/21 7,613 116,915 9,857 115,458 410 84 D. Shannon Stewart Ltd 30/04/21 7,529 94,217 6,235 92,639 856 85 N & R Gordon Ltd 30/04/21 7,529 94,217 6,235 92,639 856 86 Edge Innovate (NI) Ltd 31/12/20 7,511 28,885 6,528 28,569 241 87 Nicobrand Ltd 31/12/21 7,491 17,229 2,004 8,115 39 88 Deloitte Ireland Llp 31/05/21 7,463 296,234 -7,761 275,640 2418 89 Texthelp Ltd. 30/09/21 7,447 26,697 5,546 21,971 194 90 The Sycamore Avenue Company Ltd 31/12/20 7,435 81,924 5,857 83,729 699 91 Lough Erne Investments Ltd 25/12/20 7,367 58,368 7,939 65,046 160 92 Kelvatek Ltd 31/12/20 7,275 17,525 9,187 17,581 43 93 The Old Bushmills Distillery Co. Ltd 31/12/20 7,255 31,780 8,877 43,696 101 94 Balcas Timber Ltd 31/12/20 7,221 109,994 7,790 108,671 376 95 Agricolor Ltd 30/09/21 7,198 158,559 5,669 141,419 356 96 Liberty Information Technology Ltd 31/12/20 7,146 52,868 6,418 46,960 567 97 Caterpillar (NI) Ltd 31/12/20 7,081 439,472 -13,654 487,656 1509 98 Capital Gearing Trust P.L.C. 05/04/21 6,726 9,942 6,374 7,775 Aidan Strain Electrical Engineering Ltd 28/02/21 6,721 36,498 6,329 40,122 162 100 Avondale Foods (Craigavon) Ltd 31/03/21 6,693 68,062 6,986 63,143 484 supplied

Eye on Profit200 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit

Information

66 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) 101 Westbank Business Park Ltd 31/08/21 6,682 66,059 3,348 40,922 200 102 M.J.M. Marine Ltd 31/12/20 6,678 31,710 17,974 116,615 258 103 McKenzies (NI) Ltd 31/07/21 6,579 30,639 632 15,525 40 104 Dartan Hall Holdings Ltd 30/09/21 6,556 87,044 14,532 83,353 234 105 Mzuri Group Ltd 31/12/20 6,416 109,367 6,644 87,795 1350 106 Newpark Homes (NI) Ltd 31/12/20 6,287 14,210 6,117 14,599 21 107 Capita Managed IT Solutions Ltd 31/12/20 6,257 78,595 6,971 82,510 477 108 Lagan Homes Group Ltd 31/12/20 6,158 95,414 3,182 77,465 86 109 Lynn’s Country Foods Ltd 27/02/21 6,122 120,080 34,975 17,589 619 110 Floorform Holdings Ltd 30/04/21 6,066 1,241 8,123 1,386 11 111 P.J. Conway Contractors Ltd 31/12/20 6,055 18,298 4,857 20,130 607 112 Boreal Ltd 31/12/20 6,051 4,196 673 4,567 24 113 Brockaghboy Windfarm Ltd 31/12/20 6,026 10,873 6,739 11,757 114 Hannon Transport Ltd 31/01/21 6,006 56,517 3,839 54,767 427 115 Telefonica Tech Northern Ireland Ltd 31/12/20 5,986 52,370 3,734 42,099 318 116 Soni Ltd 30/09/21 5,984 114,286 -617 106,006 119 117 Hampden Group Ltd 27/12/20 5,919 46,851 -9,024 45,140 309 118 Donnelly Bros. Garages (Dungannon) Ltd 31/12/21 5,910 264,399 1,458 252,364 527 119 McLaughlin & Harvey Holdings Ltd 31/12/20 5,875 480,345 11,486 513,445 800 120 CDE Global Ltd 31/12/20 5,832 64,321 4,869 69,714 257 Eye on Profit200 Information supplied by

67 Eye on Profit200 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) 121 BHH Ltd 31/07/21 5,824 231,698 6,615 203,922 190 122 Cahore Holdings Ltd 31/03/21 5,722 14,193 7,488 10,889 123 Conexpo (NI) Ltd 31/12/20 5,685 29,023 3,158 25,597 43 124 JMW Farms Ltd 30/09/21 5,642 62,847 6,359 53,594 115 125 Breezemount Group Ltd 30/09/21 5,606 23,664 2,018 20,043 370 126 Woodside Logistics Group Ltd 31/03/21 5,509 68,407 4,151 69,875 557 127 Wilsons Auctions Ltd 31/03/21 5,506 27,543 1,259 36,367 297 128 Tracey Concrete Ltd 31/03/21 5,485 29,467 3,625 26,709 185 129 Noel Eakin & Sons Ltd 31/12/20 5,466 3,964 937 4,567 22 130 MacNaughton Blair Ltd 31/12/20 5,462 75,120 6,162 81,324 380 131 Cunningham Contracts Holdings Ltd 31/03/21 5,333 20,977 2,841 18,009 57 132 Harry Corry Ltd 28/02/21 5,325 46,322 1,473 48,832 743 133 Multi Packaging Solutions Belfast Ltd 30/09/21 5,301 35,822 6,699 33,285 173 134 Munster Simms Engineering Ltd 31/12/20 5,251 22,666 4,444 22,909 188 135 WRM Holdings Ltd 30/06/21 5,237 53,365 7,112 46,115 93 136 Premier Transmission Financing PLC 31/03/21 5,169 28,126 8,101 24,121 14 137 Springfarm Architectural Mouldings Ltd 28/02/21 5,077 34,219 2,539 38,086 181 138 Lotus Homes Holdings Ltd 31/12/20 5,063 29,964 2,597 29,822 5 139 Germinal Holdings Ltd 30/06/21 5,003 31,591 5,445 29,524 97 140 Controlled Electronic Mgmt. Systems Ltd 30/09/21 4,977 21,905 3,528 21,897 189 Information supplied by

68 Eye on Profit200 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) 141 Diageo Global Supply IBC Ltd 30/06/21 4,956 71,786 3,761 73,236 118 142 Kilmona Group Ltd 30/06/21 4,891 18,250 5,618 18,031 217 143 Mannok Cement (NI) Ltd 31/12/20 4,857 13,863 4,449 12,921 3 144 A&M Commercials Ltd 30/11/20 4,849 40,495 598 30,115 33 145 DCCEnergy Ltd 31/03/21 4,787 41,920 4,040 53,239 41 146 Kingspan Water & Energy Ltd 31/12/20 4,763 91,515 4,528 95,742 718 147 Armstrong Medical Ltd 31/03/21 4,699 18,953 4,275 18,685 210 148 Sisk Healthcare (Uk) Ltd 31/12/20 4,656 34,572 4,464 28,135 57 149 Whitemountain Quarries Ltd 31/12/20 4,627 77,655 9,331 91,518 245 150 Huhtamaki (Lurgan) Ltd 31/12/20 4,625 40,429 4,465 39,196 290 151 M. Keys Ltd 30/09/20 4,576 37,456 1,221 29,095 124 152 Howden Uk Ltd 31/12/20 4,523 23,105 -6,620 30,883 145 153 Highway Barrier Solutions Ltd 31/03/21 4,515 17,167 3,372 18,343 93 154 Springvale Eps Ltd 30/06/21 4,493 26,757 3,698 21,345 110 155 Castlehill Enterprises Ltd 31/03/21 4,428 17,168 3,247 19,532 95 156 Clearway Disposals Ltd 31/12/20 4,397 66,034 3,765 72,254 93 157 River Ridge Holdings Ltd 30/06/21 4,379 55,949 159 46,787 259 158 K Holdings (NI) Ltd 31/12/20 4,303 17,052 2,179 16,771 137 159 Keystone Lintels Ltd 31/12/20 4,282 43,432 3,869 52,903 402 160 Morrow Group Ltd 30/04/21 4,179 29,101 2,177 24,722 134 Information supplied by

Eye on Profit200 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) 161 BSG Civil Engineering Ltd 31/12/20 4,129 21,706 6,508 31,846 70 162 MRDE Ltd 31/03/22 4,117 5,312 3,374 5,137 163 Patmond Energy Ltd 30/06/21 4,111 39,622 2,155 39,204 7 164 W.I. Hill Holdings Ltd 31/12/20 4,057 10,840 5,256 15,270 61 165 Henry Group (NI) Ltd 31/03/22 4,057 95,616 3,156 56,912 198 166 Regal Processors Ltd 31/12/20 4,049 12,889 4,014 12,151 32 167 John Hogg & Co Ltd 30/09/21 4,049 72,966 3,286 100,295 304 168 Newpark Developments (NW) Ltd 31/12/20 4,032 14,131 2,973 14,572 17 169 ACH No.1 Ltd 31/12/21 4,024 25,819 415 21,785 230 170 Sarcon (No.214) Ltd Dominos 26/12/21 4,016 15,450 3,806 14,635 125 171 Maxol Oil Ltd 31/12/20 3,999 162,505 4,016 209,442 15 172 Morgan McLernon Ltd 31/12/20 3,983 63,824 3,554 56,138 474 173 McCulla (Holdings) Ltd 31/12/20 3,957 29,052 2,261 28,665 258 174 Calor Gas Northern Ireland Ltd 31/12/20 3,953 30,245 5,286 31,983 80 175 Acheson & Glover Ltd 31/12/21 3,951 25,819 404 21,785 230 176 James E. McCabe Ltd 31/12/20 3,885 97,254 2,753 96,685 556 177 Crust & Crumb Bakery Ltd 30/06/21 3,845 50,648 2,648 39,819 296 178 Cherry Pipes Ltd 31/12/20 3,821 18,376 1,636 13,676 66 179 P&O Ferrymasters Ltd 31/12/20 3,808 446,024 5,101 458,257 395 180 Bulrush Horticulture Ltd 30/09/21 3,770 16,942 2,195 16,942 75 Information supplied by 69

70 Eye on Profit200 Company Name Year End Pre-Tax Turnover Pre-Tax Profit Turnover No of (£000) (£000) previous year previous year employees (£000) (£000) 181 Murdock Builders Merchants Ltd 31/12/20 3,770 65,222 2,624 68,182 355 182 Greiner Packaging Ltd 31/12/20 3,768 46,065 3,682 45,025 270 183 Modern Tyres Ltd 31/12/20 3,727 37,923 2,364 40,673 266 184 Acheson Holdings Ltd 31/12/21 3,707 25,819 198 21,785 230 185 Regency Carpet Manuf. Ltd 30/06/21 3,687 40,733 701 26,356 107 186 McCulla (Ireland) Ltd 31/12/20 3,660 28,021 2,023 27,710 258 187 Breezemount Services Ltd 30/09/21 3,652 20,578 1,259 17,200 365 188 Lamont Stone Ltd 31/12/20 3,649 8,565 3,591 8,459 74 189 Dunboe Investments Ltd 31/03/21 3,634 20,605 2,473 16,498 188 190 3173 Ltd 31/03/21 3,634 20,605 2,473 16,498 188 191 Camlin Ltd 31/12/20 3,615 39,848 1,354 33,017 399 192 Irish Salt Mining And Exploration 30/11/20 3,607 17,894 2,200 14,986 58 193 Trade Mouldings Ltd 31/03/21 3,580 25,836 2,295 24,239 162 194 Golf Holdings Ltd 31/12/20 3,540 949 46 195 Agnew Commercials Ltd 31/12/20 3,537 98,474 3,194 10,576 191 196 Ballygarvey Eggs Ltd 30/09/21 3,474 37,644 3,927 33,021 65 197 Lagan Homes Ltd 31/12/20 3,461 32,184 468 12,615 32 198 Robert Roberts (NI) Ltd 31/03/22 3,430 16,078 -490 13,850 24 199 Grand Opera House Trust 31/02/2021 3,407 5,222 307 7,329 40 200 Musgrave Retail Partners NI Ltd 02/01/21 3,399 308,025 1,100 277,105 889 Information supplied by

So why is this?

We are also more frequently collaborating with our Banking colleagues to find really creative solutions that complement our clients needs - which really is the ‘win:win’ scenario for all parties.

At Upstream we positively encourage our clients to push those traditional boundaries.

Don’t get me wrong, I have huge sympathy for our colleagues in the traditional lending environment who have to deal with cumbersome decision-making processes and are often choked with overly onerous protocol. They simply don’t have the ability to flex and pivot in the same way as more agile independent funders.

The daily news reports on for example, arrears in BBILS and CBILS, the cost of living crisis and inflation, added to still erratic patterns of working from home and so forth, is not conducive to innovation, future planning and freedom of thought.

Now, as part of a major, international finance group, with business and financial interests across Europe, North and South America and a specialist focus on supply chain, logistics, warehousing and inventory management, Upstream has access to significant, flexible and scalable capital, which has been earmarked for deployment in the UK and Ireland’s commercial and corporate markets. If you run a stable, financially sound business with major growth ambitions, locally or globally, that are being constrained by lack of cashflow, we’d love to talk.

The good news is that access to cash no longer needs to be a growth inhibitor. In fact our growing team at Upstream is the indisputable validation that unlimited capital does indeed drive growth. In the past year we have seen our funding support for Irish businesses reach eight times what it was just two years ago.

Well firstly, the scale of ambition in Irish businesses is heart-warming and to be celebrated. Secondly, is a traditional funding model which is understandably constrained by often ‘offshore’ credit policy and decision making, which is looking at the economic landscape and planning for trauma.

At Upstream – part of Cubitt Trade Holdings (Europe) LLC – we specialise in structuring scalable, innovative, and increasingly large-scale working capital solutions for ambitious businesses where growth, and development is being constrained due to insufficient and unimaginative funding.

Ascaling business can be curtailed by many factors, ranging from a lack of vision, or being in a comfortable rut to insufficient market research – but more often than not, it’s access to working capital that represents the single biggest challenge for ambitious business owners.

Covering Ireland and headquartered in Belfast, Upstream is led by an experienced team of owner-managers who have been supporting businesses of all sizes, across most sectors, as individuals for decades, and under the auspices of Upstream for more than a decade.

It’s at times like these our range of bespoke funding solutions can come into their own by unlocking committed income streams to release working capital that can be used to secure discounts with your suppliers, manage your supply chain more effectively, grow your team or even acquire a competitor.

Often the first question we ask is: “what could you do if you had unlimited cash?” It’s a big question that traditional funders seldom raise, but for us it’s a crucial indicator of whether a CEO, business owner or director has got the stomach and the vision for what it takes to be successful.

One of the things our customers like most about us is that, at Upstream, we make decisions locally and fast – even if that’s a no. More than that we partner with our clients through the provision of innovative, tailor-made solutions that are shaped around a client’s specific circumstances and opportunities – not by their historical performance. We try to build headroom into our solutions, and future proof the business against the unforeseen, to rebuild bruised post pandemic confidence and assure our clients that we are aligned with them now, and for the months and years ahead.

If experience of economic downturns has taught us anything, it’s that there is always opportunity.

72 Eye on Finance What if… my unparalleledaremanyitdominatingWithcash?hadbusinessunlimitedstormyeconomicheadwindsthemediaheadlines,maybesurprisingtolearnthatNorthernIrelandbusinessescontinuingtoplanforgrowth.

We must act now to combat the climate crisis, and Translink has a clear, ambitious plan to increase passenger numbers and reduce our emissions by 50% by 2030, deliver a Net Zero public transport network by 2040 and become Climate Positive by 2050. We’re on track to achieve this, but it means examining our entire fleet, as well as our large estate of stations and facilities, to meet our ambitious targets. We aim to change the way we design, build and operate our infrastructure and assets so we can minimise our carbon and air pollution emissions.

For more information, please www.translink.co.uk/betterconnectedvisit

The scale of the challenge demands breadth and scale of ambition, and we all have a duty to act quickly and decisively to reduce emissions. For Translink, transport has a huge role to play in the economy reaching Net Zero.

Connected

In order to drive an essential modal shift in transport habits, we focus on the whole customer experience, from the moment someone decides to use our services, from using our website or Journey Planner app, the ticketing experience, the condition of the station, halt or bus stop/shelter, the station they arrive at, the helpfulness of our staff, the frequency, reliability and punctuality of services and of course,

The possibilities for Translink in the years ahead are significant - public transport is key in the Race to Zero and in encouraging a modal shift in our transport habits, improving public health and air quality, reducing congestion and driving improvements to our communities across Northern Ireland - Translink will continue our journey to transform transport in Northern Ireland, ensuring a positive legacy for future generations.

Translink – a Future that’s Better.

This will make an important contribution to overall emission reduction targets and will look after the safety and wellbeing of our passengers, neighbours and staff. In order to deliver this, we are investing in battery electric and hydrogen technologies, delivering a Metro fleet in Belfast that is already over one third Zero Emission and by the end of 2023, a 100% battery electric Foyle Metro fleet in Derry~Londonderry. We are also taking action on a sustainable rail fleet, moving towards an ever-cleaner and more efficient NI Railways network, and pursuing an Enterprise Development Strategy to make the Belfast-Dublin service even more attractive.

There is no doubt that an effective, successful, and sustainable public transport network is required to address environmental, economic and social well-being needs in our society.

We will continue to drive a modal shift through investment in stations, rail, and bus infrastructure and through connecting with other travel modes, in particular walking and cycling. We have carried out a review of how we can better integrate with active travel and this will see us invest in more cycle parking infrastructure at our stations, work with partners on cycle hire schemes and with local councils to better integrate cycle ways in to stations.

Climate change is the most pressing environmental challenge of our time, with overwhelming scientific evidence that we need to act now.

Connected’, serving as a reminder that, in order to better connect our society, we must lead the development of a fully integrated transport network. This will link services and modes across Northern Ireland, as well as enabling wider policy objectives focusing on connecting people with employment, education, and healthcare, as well as retail, social and leisure opportunities.

making sure all our services are accessible to all.

We have already been rated as Platinum status in the Business in the Community Northern Ireland Environmental Benchmarking Survey, and we will continue to benchmark Translink with the very best organisations in carbon emission reduction. Bus and rail services are vital in order to connect communities in every part of Northern Ireland, and more and more people have been discovering that in recent years - prior to the pandemic, in 2018/19, we carried a record 84.5m+ passengers across all our services, the highest such figure in 20 years. This removed over 70m car journeys from our roads, took over 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. Since Covid-19, passenger numbers have been growing back and we have ambitious plans to grow beyond 100m passenger journeys per year, helping to decarbonise our environment and decongest our town and city centres.

As part of this process, we will deliver the Translink Future Ticketing System (TFTS), a customer-led, innovative solution which will introduce contactless, account-based ticketing across the network, with a focus on ease of use, integration, convenience and best value.

Work on Belfast Grand Central Station, which will replace existing facilities at Europa and Great Victoria Street, is on schedule to complete in 2025, significantly increasing capacity. We are also planning new stations, including at Ballymena, Lurgan, York Street and Lisburn West, and have recently concluded a programme of enhancement across our network of bus stations, and continue to enhance Park and Ride capacity along key routes.

73 Eye on Transport Translink’s strategy for the decade ahead and beyond focuses on the theme ‘Better.

ULSTER UNIVERSITY

Northern Ireland’s SMEs might have a strong reputation for innovation, but they tend to lag behind other regions when it comes to productivity.

Help To Grow: Management has a strong emphasis on productivity growth, and that’s no surprise.

The Help To initiallyUniversity’sexperiencedhereStrategy,Business,fundedisManagementGrow:courseaUK-wideinitiative,bytheDepartmentofEnergy&Industrialandit’sbeingdeliveredinNorthernIrelandbytheteamatUlsterBusinessSchool,atthebrandnew

Helping CompaniesLocalTo Grow

A new course being introduced this September by Ulster University Business School is aimed directly at businesseslocalwith an eye for growth.

Laura Bradley-McCauley says that, above all else, it’s a businessfocused programme. “It’s very applied, it’s very practical and it is designed to fit in with the existing commitments of busy senior leaders and managers of small and medium-sized businesses,” she says. “We’re all too aware that businesses can be a bit wary of courses which they might consider too academic or too timeconsuming but this programme is very focused on their needs and business context.”

The first cohort of some 20-25 local business managers will on Management Education

Eye

Belfast city centre campus but also at both Coleraine andProgrammeDerry/Londonderry.DirectorDr.

“We’re all too aware that businesses can be a bit wary of courses which they might consider too academic or too time-consuming but this programme is very focused on their needs and business context.”

“The programme offers businesses here a chance to help make a step change in how they are growing their enterprises. Not only will the programme give small businesses critical skills but it creates an alumni community, supported regionally and nationally, that participants, now and in the future, can take advantage of.”

Programme Director Dr. Laura Bradley-McCauley

Interested in the Help To Grow: Management Programme at Ulster University? Visit ulster.ac.uk/help to grow or contact Dr. Laura BradleyMcCauley on 028 71 675324 or by in/dr-laura-bradley-b384b825/Linkedinlm.bradley@ulster.ac.ukemailwww.linkedin.com/

The new programme, she says, sits very well with the wider UU Business School and its portfolio of courses and offerings.

75 embark on the new course in September at the new York Street campus. Interest has been high, despite the programme being launched during the quieter summer months. Thanks to UK Government funding (90% subsidised), the cost per participant has been pegged back to a competitive £750. “It’s still an investment for smaller companies but we think it’s an affordable one and it’s one which can deliver a lot of value for a relatively small input,” says Dr. Bradley-McCauley. Ulster University hopes to run three cohorts on the programme between September and March of 2023, with participants learning how to develop an effective growth strategy, review systems and processes to work smarter, adopt new digital technology and build good leadership and management practices. In terms of time commitment, there’s a balance to be struck between the work pressures of the participants and delivering the right kind of learning. The new Help To Grow: Management programme seems to hit that balance well. Participants can expect to commit to 50 hours over the 12-week period of the course. That breaks down into ten hours of one to one mentoring, eight hours of peer learning and 32 hours of course content learning, evenly split into 16 hours online and 16 hours face to face. “There are a total of 12 topic areas across subjects like innovation and growth strategy, customer engagement, building a sustainable business, employee engagement and operations as well as finance but a third of the course is case study based. All learning is centred around the participant’s own organisation and its aims and objectives,” Laura continues. The course is open to any noncharitable local organisation of at least one year old and employing between five and 249 people, and individual participants must be in a managerial position with some responsibility for staff “Anyonemanagement.whoembarks on the course will come away with a defined growth action plan for their company developed with mentor support and peer support that a course like this delivers,” says Laura.

Eye on Management Education

The Programme Director emphasises that there is a strong element of interactivity. “We’re keen to get as much feedback as we can from businesses and from participants as we move through the cohorts,” she says. “We want to be reactive to suggestions. We’re here to support Northern Ireland’s small businesses.”

Gordons Chemists

The breast screening service is always free to the user. However, each appointment costs the charity £120.

76 Neil Gordon along with his brother Robert started the independent pharmacy chain in Donaghadee, County Down, 42 years ago. Since then the firm has grown from strength to strength and today is Northern Ireland’s largest independent pharmacy chain with 54 local stores throughout the country and employs approximately 900 people. In 2006 the business expanded into Scotland where it now has 9 stores. Since 2006 when the partnership with Action Cancer began, Gordons Chemists have turned their stores pink every October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to raise funds and awareness for Action Cancer’s breast screening service. Action Cancer’s breast screening service is unique to Northern Ireland and is available to women aged 40-49 and over 70 — those who fall outside the NHS screening age range (50 – 70). Neil Gordon sadly died of cancer in 2014 which cemented the Gordon family’s passion and commitment to making a difference through their partnership with Action Cancer. During the month of October staff encourage customers to be ‘breast aware’ and give out information on breast cancer signs and symptoms as well as signposting women in their 40s and over the age of 70 to Action Cancer’s early detection screening service at Action Cancer House and on board the Big Bus which travels to 200 locations throughout Northern Ireland each year.

Gordons Chemists have raised over £300K for Action Cancer to date. Fundraising activity across its stores has included; fancy dress, raffles, bake sales, ‘biggest loser’. In addition, Gordons staff have gone above and beyond, getting their friends and family involved in fundraising activity in their local communities.

Eye on

Robert Gordon, Co-Founder of Gordons Chemists said; “We are delighted the staff and customers at Gordons have customers have raised such a fantastic total of £300K over the last 16 years. Our partnership has gone from strength to strength. The pandemic has highlighted that our Pharmacies are at the heart of our local communities and we are here to support our customers and their health needs and concerns. Charity

Pictured at the launch of last year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) campaign are Mark Jones, Corporate Fundraising Executive, Action Cancer, Eadaoin Smith, Senior Radiographer, Action Cancer, Lucy McCusker, Corporate Fundraising Manager, Action Cancer and Fiona McQuillan, daughter of Co-Founder Neil Gordon and Pharmacist at Gordons Chemists.

IN GOOD COMPANY

Action Cancer has been working in partnership with Gordons Chemists for the last 16 years.

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The campaign sought to warn the Northern Ireland public to Stay Safe in the Sun. This year’s campaign was a massive success achieving unprecedented media coverage in press, radio, online and TV as temperatures soared In July and early August. Action Cancer warned people to be vigilant and reminded the public of this very important health message- Stay Safe in the Sun during the summer - no matter what the weather.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Northern Ireland. Each year around 4,360 people are diagnosed with skin cancer and 399 develop the most serious type of skin cancer, known as malignant melanoma. A total of 93 people die from melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer in Northern Ireland every year.

Action Cancer teamed up with its long-term partner Gordons Chemists to launch this year’s Safe Sun campaign. Pictured left to right is: Anne Thompson, Health Improvement Officer Action Cancer, 7-year old Freddie McCusker from Moira and Melanie Talbot, Marketing Manager at Gordons Chemists.

Unfortunately, the statistics show that incidence of skin cancer is increasing in Northern Ireland with men being at a greater risk than women in developing the disease.

Melanie Talbot, Marketing Manager at Gordons Chemists, added: “Gordons Chemists is proud to support Action Cancer in delivering its Safe Sun message. Our community pharmacists have been at the forefront of service delivery during the pandemic and are here to offer sun safety advice to our customers across all our 54 stores in Northern Ireland.” on Charity To find out how your company could work in partnership with Action Cancer, please contact Lucy McCusker, Corporate Fundraising Manager orlmccusker@actioncancer.orgoncall07743416325.

Anne Thompson, Health Improvement Officer at Action Cancer, said: “We are encouraging people to protect themselves and their families as much as they can from skin damage from sun exposure. The use of a high factor sun cream, at least factor 30, covering up and staying out of the sun in the middle of the day, are all key to reducing your risk of skin damage. Love the skin you’re in and be vigilant of any changes. Contact your GP for follow up if you have any concerns because early detection saves lives.”

SAFE SUN CAMPAIGN

77 Our staff across Northern Ireland work tirelessly throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October to collect donations, and they’re passionate about making sure that our customers know of the potentially lifesaving services which Action Cancer can offer them.” Melanie Talbot, Marketing Manager at Gordons Chemists added, “We know that the money we raise for Action Cancer goes directly towards saving lives. We’ve seen a significant number of our customers have a cancer detected, because of a screening made available to them by Action Cancer, and because a member of our staff encouraged them to make an appointment. Supporting Action Cancer is just one of the ways that we try to give something back to the communities we work in.” Plans are underway for this coming October. Please call in to your local Gordons store and show your support.

This summer Action Cancer launched its annual Safe Sun campaign in partnership with Gordons Chemists.

It is a common misconception that you only need to apply sun cream when the sun is out. It is important to know that even on a cloudy day, when outdoors your skin is always at risk of damage from UV rays from the sun. This skin damage can not only cause premature aging, it significantly increases your risk of developing skin cancer.

Aspiring chefs to step up to the plate with launch of new NI Chef Academy

Eye on News

The quality of the programme is second to none and offers aspiring chefs a real foot in the door to a fantastic new career alongside top employers. With no formal entry requirements, the course is accessible to everyone that can demonstrate a passion for cooking and a real drive to build their career as a chef. With just six coveted places up for grabs, I would encourage anyone interested to step up to the plate and apply today.” Applications close on 29th August 2022, with successful candidates enrolled from mid-September.

The launch of the new Chef Academy complements the School’s dedicated Bar Academy and further underscores their commitment to firmly establish the NI Hospitality School as a centre for excellence. Well done to all those involved.”

The launch of its new Chef Academy is the latest development in the school’s ambitious plans to support the hospitality sector locally and provide a pathway to employment for those seeking a career in the industry. Each year, the NI Hospitality School aims to facilitate employment for six chefs and 24 bartenders in a £685,000 annual investment, providing a significant boost to local employment.

Apprentices can enjoy a competitive benefits package including an attractive hourly rate above the recommended National Living Wage and receive a mix of on and off-the-job training with ongoing mentorship support. The blended learning approach also includes offsite training, with chef apprentices offered the opportunity to learn about sourcing, meeting some of the region’s top food suppliers and even getting to cook alongside a leading chef for a high profile dinner event.

Thomas Turley, South Eastern Regional College Lecturer in Hospitality and Catering, said: “I’m delighted to work with the Northern Ireland Hospitality School to launch a brand-new Chef Academy dedicated to nurturing a new generation of culinary talent.

Aspiring chefs are being called to step up to the plate and enrol on a brand-new training course, launched today by the Northern Ireland Hospitality School, offering students the chance to gain a chef qualification and secure guaranteed employment with one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels.

The Gallaher Trust is delighted to continue our partnership with the Northern Ireland Hospitality School and looks forward to welcoming a new batch of qualified chefs, particularly at a time when the hospitality industry is facing recruitment challenges. This will no doubt add great value to Galgorm, Adair Arms Hotel and Tullyglass House Hotel.

Lauren McAteer from The Gallaher Trust said: “Since the NI Hospitality School was launched last year, we’ve been delighted to see the response from young people keen to get a foot on the hospitality ladder, as well as from those looking to make the move to a new career within the hospitality sector. We’re very pleased that the school offers students a dedicated education centre which is focused on providing first-class training and development; as well as real-world experience of a busy kitchen environment and learning from the very best across three of Northern Ireland’s top hotels. For us, the fact that the school facilitates employment for all of the graduates is the ultimate goal and one that makes these courses so attractive to students.

The new course is an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in becoming a chef to gain experience in a busy kitchen working under the supervision of passionate chefs at the top of their game, all whilst gaining a nationally recognised fullyfunded qualification and securing guaranteed employment at the end of the 12-month programme.

78 The brand-new Chef Academy will see six successful candidates selected to undertake a year-long scholarship delivered through on-the-job training at one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels; Adair Arms Hotel, Galgorm Resort or Tullyglass House Hotel, where they will ultimately secure guaranteedSuccessfulemployment.candidateswill gain a nationally recognised qualification (FDQ Level 2 Diploma in Professional Chef - Northern Ireland), delivered by training partner South Eastern Regional College (SERC). The course involves not just classroom learning, but on the job training with our highly skilled kitchen brigade as well as unique experiences with our local food producers. Representing an investment in year one of nearly £250,000 the new academy aims to recruit six locally based chef apprentices for its first intake in September, with applications now open.

The announcement follows the launch of the Northern Ireland Hospitality School last April, part funded by Ballymena-based charity The Gallaher Trust. To date, the school has already supported 24 students in gaining full-time employment with partnering hotels through its dedicated Bar Academy.

For more information, or to apply, please visit nihospitalityschool.com

Eddie McKeever, Group Operations Director, McKeever Hotels; Galgorm Chef Hubert Kuc; Colin Johnston, Managing Director, Galgorm Collection and Shauna Kerr, HR Manager, Tullyglass.

The shopping centre and retail park boasts a purpose-built, enclosed mall shopping centre with an adjacent open consented retail park and is priced at £57m.

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The property, which comprises more than 30 acres across the retail park and 50 commercial units in the shopping centre, is the dominant retail scheme within the wider urban area of Craigavon.

RSM Advises Leading Independent Retailer on Acquisition to Support Next Phase of Growth on News

Rushmere Shopping Centre Retail Park On Market For £57m

Andrew Coggins, Senior Director at CBRE NI, commented: “Rushmere Shopping Centre and Retail Park is a very exciting asset to bring to the market in Northern Ireland, and is currently the largest investment asset to come to the market in Northern Ireland to date this year.”

Richard Gardiner, who leads RSM’s business advisory service and is managing partner at RSM in Belfast, said: ‘The Creighton family have been highly successful, award-winning independent retailers working with the Henderson Group for many years. We have enjoyed a close working relationship with the business, and welcome the news of this acquisition, which has brought together two closely aligned local businesses while consolidating the Creighton Group’s position in the marketplace even further.’ Niall Creighton added: ‘We are honoured to have the opportunity to take over a store that has been familyrun since the early 1900s, which mirrors our own family business, which was established by my father 86 years ago in 1936. Expanding the Creighton company name, which has become synonymous with community retailing over the years, has always been our long-term strategy, and we look forward to bringing even more to the community, always keeping locally sourced products and partnerships at the forefront of the business.’

RSM’s Richard Gardiner and Michael Blair advised Creighton Group on the funding package and structure to support the company’s next phase of growth.

Commercial real estate agencies CBRE NI and Savills are acting as joint agents on the sale of the property.

Leading audit, tax and consulting firm RSM UK’s business advisory and tax teams have supported Creighton Group on its acquisition of local County Armagh retailer JD Hunter & Co Supermarket.

Rushmere Shopping Centre and Retail Park in Craigavon has been brought to the market in a joint sale by Savills and CBRE NI in what will potentially be the largest commercial real estate investment sale in Northern Ireland in 2022.

Ben Turtle, Director at Savills, added: “The scheme is fully let to a number of well-known and prominent tenants, so we anticipate that there will be strong investor interest in this investment opportunity.”

Established in 1936, the Creighton Group is made up of three independent businesses across Belfast including a petrol forecourt, deli and Spar store at a number of local sites, as well as an autostore, garage and vehicle recovery service. The company is owned by the Creighton family under the SPA and EUROSPAR brands in Finaghy, Blacks Road and Balmoral. Owned and managed by the Henderson Group since 2019, JD Hunter & Co Supermarket employs 145 people from the local community. The Creighton Group has bought the business outright for an undisclosed sum, with all employees remaining in continuous employment under the new ownership.

Rushmere Shopping Centre and Retail Park is home to some of the UK and Ireland’s most prominent retailers, and the recent anchor letting secured to Primark will only continue to enhance its retailing appeal, with other complimentary retailers including Boots, Home Bargains, Superdrug and Dunnes Stores in the shopping centre, as well as Homebase, Matalan, Next and Currys/PC World in the retail park.

Matthew Wilks, Business Development Manager, Vix Technology, said: “Vix is passionate about improving the sustainability of public transit networks, and providing real time transit information in a way that meets the needs of all passengers is key to getting people on board. “Working with Translink, NOW Group and the wider local community in this way enables us to focus on what matters, obtaining valuable feedback from those passengers with a variety of disabilities, to help ensure everyone’s journey is as comfortable and as informative as possible.”

Translink has held passenger engagement sessions with members of NOW Group to enhance the journey experience for customers with disabilities. Ruth Mulholland, left, and David Lowry (Translink) with, centre, Rachel Hunter (NOW Group)

“We’re continually investing in our network with real time passenger information and audio-visual next stop announcements currently live across Belfast (Metro, Glider). We’re extending this feature to Urby and Goldliner services and plan to cover all Ulsterbus services over coming years as part of our Enhanced Passenger Information and Communication (EPIC) Project “We’d like to thank NOW Group members for working in partnership with us to provide valuable insight and recommendations that will ultimately ensure everyone is better connected and can enjoy a safe, comfortable and convenient journey experience.” said David.

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The recent engagement events aim to provide practical experience and support to instil passenger confidence by making journey planning and the actual journey experience easier.

For more details on Translink’s commitment to making services safe and accessible for everyone visit co.uk/usingtranslinkwww.translink.

Delivered in partnership with Translink’s contractor Vix Technology, the sessions included a journey by Glider and practical demonstration of on-board accessibility features, digital passenger information and ticket vending machines at halts.

Ensuring services and facilities are accessible to all is a key part of Translink’s customer focus.

David Lowry, Head of Fleet Systems, Translink, said: “We’re committed to removing any barriers to using public transport and investing in enhanced real-time passenger information to improve the overall journey experience. “End-to-end accurate and accessible travel information is a vital part of a high-quality public transport network and key to attracting more passengers on board services. Every passenger should be able to travel with the confidence that they have boarded the correct service and are travelling to their intended destination.

Translink Spotlights Disabled Passenger Experience

Jenny Potter, NOW Group said: “The NOW Group were delighted to have members from Translink and Vix Technology join us in the Hive for an engagement session with our participants. They thoroughly enjoyed their time on the Glider, learning about the on-board accessibility features and how to purchase tickets for their journey. We hope from this session our participants will be able to build their confidence and awareness of the accessibility of Translink transport.’’

Flights will launch from 31 October 2022 with departures on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays throughout the winter season until 24 March 2023, providing easyJet customers in Northern Ireland with more convenient domestic connections this winter.

Hamilton Architects have marked their 50th Anniversary with a celebratory dinner for staff, colleagues, clients and VIP guests at the Ulster Museum, one of their signature projects. Host Tina Campbell presented the Partners with an artwork of the iconic building, rendered by artist Marcus Patton, to mark the occasion.

easyJet launches new route between Belfast City and Glasgow

Hamilton Architects Celebrate

Pictured from left are Partners Paul Millar, Graeme Ogle, Michelle Canning, Mark Haslett and Richard Keys. 50

“Following the success of easyJet’s flights from Belfast City Airport to London Gatwick and Liverpool, and with flights to Bristol taking off in September, we are thrilled to strengthen our partnership with the addition of a service to Glasgow.

Ellie McGimpsey, Aviation Manager at Belfast City Airport, commented:

The new route to Glasgow marks further expansion of easyJet services from Belfast City with the last year seeing the launch of new routes to London Gatwick, Bristol and Liverpool, which have proven popular with leisure and business travellers alike.

Years Of ExcellenceDesign

“With flights up to three days a week, we are confident this route will be popular for both inbound and outbound travellers. “Coupled with an average security processing time of only six minutes, passengers travelling to Glasgow will be able to benefit from a wealth of choice and flexibility at Belfast City Airport.”

A cultural hub, Glasgow is home to the Scottish Opera, Ballet and National Theatre of Scotland, whilst also being the gateway to one of the world’s great rail journeys; a scenic route through the heart of the Scottish Highlands from Glasgow to Fort William, and for those looking to book a Christmas break this winter, the city is brimming with festive markets throughout the season.

81 Eye on News EasyJet has launched a new route from Belfast City airport to Glasgow, with seats on sale at easyJet.com and via the mobile app, from just £22.99.

Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager said: “We are delighted to be launching another new service from Belfast City which will offer our customers more choice when travelling between Belfast and Glasgow. This new route further strengthens our network in Belfast, having recently added services to London Gatwick, Liverpool and Bristol from Belfast City. Adding such choice has proved hugely popular with our customers and we are pleased to be offering further connectivity for those looking to explore and enjoy all the UK has to offer this winter. “We are proud to be the largest airline in Belfast and Northern Ireland and remain committed to offering customers great value fares and more choice when they fly with us.”

82 Eye on Finance This latest move further advances the network’s plans to more than double in size throughout the UK in the next five years and comes just months after it successfully launched its offering in England with a number of Yorkshire Building Society agencies in Northwest England. With over £300m funds under management, Milecross is one of the largest Openwork Partnership businesses in the UK with over 30 offices and 80 advisers already working from branches across NI, Scotland and Northwest England. These numbers will now initially increase to close to 100 following the announcement while the network continues to identify additional opportunities for growth.

Paul Dalzell, CEO, Milecross, said: “Our core values of long-term sustainability, strong customer focus, colleagues who are valued and having a positive engagement with local communities are mirrored by each agency and adviser who has joined our operation in Scotland. “We now have an even broader reach and range of services and support for clients across the region. Each agency has the flexibility to augment their own suite of products with the additional services Milecross can deliver including investments and mortgages from other providers through our financial advisers now based in each location.”

Simon Gordon, Regional Manager, Milecross in Scotland, added: “The new businesses that have joined Milecross Scotland will benefit from all back-office services available from our existing regional hub in Aberdeen including compliance and administrative support, cost efficiencies and IT support. Our aim is to collectively grow Milecross by helping each of these agencies maximise their potential - giving their clients access to some of the best deals in mortgage and protection products and expert investment advice tailored to their needs. “This is just the next step to wider expansion plans for Milecross, and we are excited to bring our skills and experience to the area through our unique business model which has helped us achieve great success in Northern Ireland.”

ScottishininvestsServicesFinancialfirm£1.5millionexpansionofnetwork

Paul Dalzell, CEO, Milecross

83 Eye on Finance

Paul Dalzell, CEO, Milecross (left) with Simon Gordon, Regional Manager, Milecross, Scotland.

The windfarm will house just five wind turbines but will deliver enough energy to power over 8,000 homes or businesses annually, delivering significant impact for its size. 3T Power’s windfarm at Ballyutoag Road will also have the added benefit of reducing annual carbon dioxide emissions by 14,800 tonnes, a significant amount when considering just one individual in the UK has a carbon footprint of around 10 tonnes. Commenting on this latest development 3T Power Director Thomas Kelso said, “We have worked steadily to create one of the biggest networks of renewable energy generators in Northern Ireland. We’re proud of the fact that 100% of the electricity we provide to businesses here is home grown and we have supported independent turbine owners through our efforts to harness their electricity output. “Being able to join our own network of generators as generators ourselves is a step forward that we’re very much looking forward to. Wind turbines don’t pollute the air or sea, they don’t require water to cool them and they reduce our need for fossil fuels. Wind energy is also the most cost-effective form of energy bar none. This allows us to meet our customers’ demand for energy that’s both sustainable for the planet and pocket.”

84 Until now, Northern Ireland’s only supplier of 100% locallygenerated renewable electricity has relied on independent generators in order to harness the power of wind electricity generated locally to supply business clients across the province. But with ground-breaking underway at the Ballyutoag site, five wind turbines are planned to become operational by 2023.

The move to include generation with supply is just one of the measures being taken by 3T Power to respond to the everincreasing demand for renewable energy from businesses in Northern Ireland as business owners remain keen not just to reduce their energy costs but also to increase their sustainability credentials.

Eye on Energy 3T Power ramps up the farmdedicatedrevolutiongreenwithwindproject

The Ballyutoag wind farm project was first initiated back in 2014, with the site at Ligoniel undergoing significant independent assessment for factors including archaeological interest, soil, water and other environmental factors.

The windfarm at the Ballyutoag site is expected to be operational in late 2023, in which time those five turbines will join the 3T Power network, growing 3T Power’s potential to supply local businesses with ‘homegrown’ green energy and also continuing to offer the opportunity for business clients to have full traceability of where their electricity is generated, right down to the specific turbine.

As well as providing renewable energy with zero emissions, this wind farm will also provide a year of employment and opportunities to local contractors.

The project also received positive support from the local community following a public information day in October 2014, held at a local Young Farmers Club. Following significant snags in the project, the team at 3T Power have acquired the site and will see the development through to completion.

Currently 46% of electricity in Northern Ireland comes from renewable sources, but we are on target for 70% of electricity supplies coming from renewable sources by 2030. Our ‘wee country’ could become a world leader in green energy generation!

3T Power has been at the forefront of the green revolution for businesses in Northern Ireland with 100% of the electricity we supply coming from renewable sources – everything from wind to waves to sun to waste. Thanks to our network of renewable energy generators, 3T Power provides renewable energy for clients ranging from hospitality to heavy industry, community hubs and even churches.

3T Power is expanding its capacity for providing Northern Ireland’s businesses with 100% locally generated renewable electricity through the development of its own wind farm located just outside Belfast.

Based on the periphery of Europe, Northern Ireland has few natural fossil fuel deposits of its own. In the past, the province have been entirely dependent on fossil fuel imports but with the volatility of the fossil fuel market at an all-time high and continued tensions in Eastern Europe, Russia and the Middle East, the emphasis on utilising clean, natural resources located on our back step has never been so important.

Computer-rendered photomontage of the view from Divis Mountain - about four kilometres south of the Ballyutoag site

If you’re a business or a renewable electricity generator interested in joining Northern Ireland’s green revolution contact 3T Power today or visit their website for more information www.3tpower.com

BGF, is an independent investment company, specialising in supporting earlier stage and established private businesses, across all regions and industry sectors in the UK and Ireland. This latest funding marks a follow-on investment for BGF, which first backed Mzuri in April 2020, and brings its total backing for the company to £20 million.

“It has been a very difficult year for independent retailers, but this campaign has shone a light on how valued they are in their community, and the vital role they play in keeping the local economy alive. As they work to remain viable in this difficult business climate, it is only right that we celebrate and champion the sector.

Coleraine and Newtownards Win High Streets of the Year

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Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Lord Caine, who presented the award, said: “I congratulate Coleraine and Newtownards on winning the prestigious High Street of the Year Award, which highlights how highly valued retailers in these areas are to their local communities.

85 Leading audit, tax and consulting firm RSM UK’s business advisory team has helped Mzuri Group secure a total funding package of £10m from venture capital firm BGF to boost its ambitious European growth plans.

“The UK Government is committed to making NI a better place to live, work, invest, and do business, and we will continue to support the growth of Northern Ireland’s high streets by building a stronger economy and through major investment such as the Levelling Up Fund and the upcoming UK Shared Prosperity Fund.” Retail NI Chief Executive, Glyn Roberts said: “The High Street Heroes Awards is a wonderful celebration of Northern Ireland’s independent retailers. The winners are based across Northern Ireland showing a brilliant regional response to the campaign and emphasising the community support for retailers.

Leading window blind company secures £10m funding to support ambitious European growth plans

Founded in 1979, Mzuri Group is a leading window coverings group which designs, manufactures and distributes window coverings to customers in the UK, Europe and Australia. The group, made up of 12 companies and employing over 1500 people, will use the funding from BGF to boost growth and build its European sales and distribution.

oleraine and Newtownards have jointly scooped the prestigious High Street of the Year award, battling High Streets across Northern Ireland for the coveted prize, while Wardens of Newtownards received the sought-after Overall Retailer of the Year award and Shauna Corrigan from McGrane’s in Keady being voted Northern Irelands best retail employee.

Over ten thousand votes were cast for Retail NI’s High Street Heroes awards, with old favourites and new faces picking up gold, silver, and bronze across a range of categories. The initiative shone a light on Northern Ireland’s independent retailers, with the public choosing their favourite retailers in an online vote. In an exclusive reception at Hinch Distillery, retailers across the region were celebrated with Chill Off-Licence in Derry/Londonderry, Harkins Pharmacy in Maghera and Murrays Nearby in Cullyhanna all picking up gold. Northern Ireland Office Minister Lord Caine addressed the event. High Street Heroes NI was a joint initiative from Retail NI and Belfast Live supported by Camelot and Voice for Locals.

Stuart Dickson, managing director of Mzuri Group, said: ‘Mzuri has significantly expanded its business since BGF first invested in the company, and we view this latest round of funding as a tremendous endorsement of our plans for further growth in the years ahead.

As well as its substantial capital support, access to BGF’s network and its expert advice has been invaluable as we have assessed acquisition opportunities and moved into new markets. We look forward to continuing to work closely with BGF’s investment team in the future.’

“It is really good to see many independent retailers from some of our smaller rural towns getting the recognition they deserve at our High Street Hero Awards.”

RSM’s Richard Gardiner and Michael Blair advised Mzuri Group on the funding package to support the company’s next phase of acquisitive growth. Richard Gardiner, who leads RSM’s business advisory service and is managing partner at RSM in Belfast, said: ‘As one of the UK’s leading window blind businesses, the funding secured will enable Mzuri Group to take the next steps in its ambitious growth strategy and expand its European markets, client base, all while playing an integral role in supporting economic recovery in the UK post-pandemic.’

Speaking on reopening day, Beannchor Managing Director, Conall Wolsey said: “We are thrilled to see this day arrive and finally reopen the doors of Bullitt Hotel once again. The closure gave us some time to innovate and renovate parts of the hotel including upgrading rooms, menus, special offers and entertainment packages. “The Bullitt team is a close-knit community which was missed over the past four months, but we are delighted to have all staff back onsite again and ready to welcome the return of our muchloved and missed guests.”

In the Bullitt lobby, the Sound Advice Pop-up record display has been updated as well as adding a new pop-up magazine display, collaborating with local online lifestyle magazine store Iris, where guests can read, return or buy their favourites.

Belfast’s much-loved Bullitt Hotel reopens its doors today with exciting renovations, new rooms and menus and a relaunch party with DJs on the decks all weekend long, after being closed since March 2022.

86 The four-star hotel located in the heart of Belfast’s city centre was dearly missed by locals and tourists alike, since closing due to a fire earlier this year. Named after the Steve McQueen movie, Bullitt returns with the same cool, vibrant and contemporary vibe that guests have enjoyed since its opening in 2016. Guests can enjoy some exciting new additions to the hotel, including the introduction of the brand new ‘Biggy’ Rooms, Bullitt’s alternative version of a suite. Whether it’s a quick stop over or a longer stay, Bullitt reopening means guests can lay their heads in a room perfect for them with a range of styles to choose from, including the Dinky, Comfy, Roomy and now Biggy rooms. Known for a no-nonsense philosophy, Bullitt’s Biggy rooms are the biggest of the bunch at 35sq m and perfect if you fancy a little more space. Guests can kick back, stick on the record player or connect your smartphone and turn up the amp. Each room is fitted with everything guests could possibly need including a SMEG mini fridge stocked with complimentary drinks and snacks, a double walk-in shower and a Nespresso machine for that caffeine fix.

Also making a comeback is the award-winning restaurant Taylor & Clay, which boasts an open kitchen built around an incredible Asador wood-fired grill, on which our new menu was designed around.

The boutique hotel also has a host of exciting events and collaborations featuring popular local talents lined up for the relaunch, including a courtyard party this weekend, Marion from Sound Advice Belfast for a laid-back Balearic adventure on Friday 12 August and a funky, avant-garde return of Iain McCready with support from Chris Frieze and Never Never on Saturday 20 August.

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To celebrate the reopening, the hotel has a Bullitt’s Back Baby offer which gives guests £20 of FREE hotel credit when you book to stay this August in a comfy room for only www.bullitthotel.com£99.

Bullitt Hotel is undertaking further renovations to its rooftop bar, which plans to reopen in the Autumn with some very exciting changes and new concepts.

BELFAST’S BULLITT RE-OPENS ITS DOORS

The reopening of Bullitt sees a return of Belfast’s ever-popular speakeasy, cocktail bar Rattlebag, where guests can enjoy cool tunes and slick interiors alongside an innovative rotating cocktail menu.

The exciting new development will be brought to life by Vita Student’s customer centric approach to people and hospitality with a host of events and activity which create a platform for residents to “begin big” and support positive wellbeing.

Commenting, Graham Mitchell, Development Director at MRP stated: “We are delighted to announce another funding deal with VITA, one of the leading providers of student accommodation, building on our strong working partnership to date. “This exciting project supports the very significant demand there is for student accommodation in Belfast city centre and help to further improve the broad appeal of Belfast as a location for international students. It will deliver exceptionally high-quality living space in a prominent location with great access to transport infrastructure and close proximity to Belfast’s main university campuses. This combined with Vita’s top level of on-site services will significantly add to Belfast’s vibrant student offering and create an experience for the residents, which is not currently available in the market.”

87 Vita Group and MRP will develop 271 high-quality studio apartments with Vita Student’s signature mix of amenity space including large design-led hub spaces, private study and dining rooms and a gym. Adding to MRP’s significant footprint in Belfast, the new 15-storey development, already under construction, is located on the corner of Little Victoria Street and Bruce Street providing great accessibility to the busy Queen’s University and Ulster University campuses.

The development supports the growing demand for student living within the city centre, and marks Vita Group and MRP’s third partnership together with Vita Student Canon Park opening in September and a second Birmingham site on Gough Street, which has recently had plans submitted to the council. Max Bielby, Chief Operating Officer for Vita Group said: “Belfast presents an exciting opportunity for Vita Student. The city attracts top talent from around the world to study at its universities and is currently underserved by existing PBSA. This puts pressures on the local housing market and so there is pent up demand for quality student accommodation, helping to attract more talent from Northern Ireland and around the world. We are pleased to build on our partnership with MRP in creating the best student living experience Belfast has ever seen.”

Vita

BelfastIrelandintooperationsNorthernwithfirstPBSAVitaGroupistaking‘theworld’sbeststudentliving’,VitaStudent,toNorthernIrelandwithitsfirstsiteinBelfastafteragreeingafundingdealwithMRP. Eye on News

Leading Design & Build contractor, McAleer & Rushe commenced construction in January 2022 and will be utilising a number of modern methods of construction, including offsite prefabricated bathroom pods. The PBSA development is set to complete in Summer in 2023 for the 23/24 student year intake. Designed by TODD Architects with a red brick façade, the Vita Student Belfast building will have a lower 5-storey podium base addressing Bruce Street and the remaining 10-storey element is set back above from the podium elevation. Group expands

As expected, rising costs dominate business challenges once again as energy prices (86 per cent) and overheads (83 per cent) continue to be the top two issues impacting businesses, as they have been over the past six months.

On the whole, the latest figures from InterTradeIreland’s Business Monitor show that despite the unprecedented impact of rising costs, business performance overall is holding steady for now, with 83 per cent of companies across the island of Ireland in stable or growth mode, on a par with last quarter’s results (85 per cent).

Reassuringly the impact of Brexit (43 per cent) and Covid-19 (39 per cent) has declined as companies continue to adapt. However, almost half of businesses (46 per cent) now cite a difficulty in recruitment of appropriate skills as a key issue. Looking at the data, Martin Robinson, InterTradeIreland’s Director of Strategy explains; “As skills challenges become a significant issue, we are starting to see companies look at different ways to tackle shortages. 35 per cent for example have increased advertising while 29 per cent are retraining in-house. Innovation through exploiting digital technology is another area that could help firms create efficiencies. Our recently launched Business Solutions voucher provides support to businesses to explore the most effective ways of overcoming these ever-rising challenges.”

There is a note of caution however for the leisure, hotel and catering sector which has experienced a more challenging time than most, with 42 per cent now experiencing a drop in sales compared to 23 per cent last quarter.

Data from InterTradeIreland’s latest Business Monitor survey (Q2 2022) reveals companies that export cross border are outperforming companies that do not, with 41 per cent enjoying rapid to moderate expansion. This is almost double compared to non-cross border traders (21 per cent). Likely To StrongExperienceGrowth

Martin Robinson, Director of Strategy at InterTradeIreland, says that this is a recurring trend the business development body has tracked over the last six quarterly surveys. “Despite the challenges SMEs face, on the whole, cross-border trade remains remarkably robust with a higher percentage of companies who export cross border reporting profitability, growth and increased sales compared to their non-cross-border trading counterparts,” says Martin.

88 Indeed, over three quarters of cross border traders (78 per cent) describe themselves as profitable compared to 51 per cent of firms that do not sell into the opposite jurisdiction.

“InterTradeIreland helps businesses identify cross-border opportunities and to explore their export potential through programmes such as Elevate and Acumen and have seen firsthand how a focus on reaching new markets can help enhance productivity and sales. Recent data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) shows that cross-border trade in goods reached €7.65 billion in 2021 and continues to increase. In January-May 2022, Irish import trade with Northern Ireland has risen by another €356 million (23 per cent) and Irish exports to Northern Ireland have risen by €586 million (42 per cent), compared to the same period in 2021.”

Eye on News Companies who Export Cross Border Twice as

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The Enterprise train is a key economic and social connector for the people of Dublin, Belfast and the stations in between and we look forward to another 75 years of its successful operation.”

89 Its 1st year in service consisted of one train in each direction with Its launch heralding a new era in cross-border rail travel connecting the two cities. Today, 75 years later, Enterprise passenger demand is on course to reach an alltime high with 16 departures daily (8 in either direction)*. From an operational perspective, there have been many milestones over the decades like diesel railcars replacing steam locomotives to major refurbishments and railway upgrades. But the Enterprise story has also been impacted by the wider historical context like The Troubles when the Peace Train Organisation was set-up and the ‘contraceptive trains’ of the Irish Womens Liberation Movement. Now jointly operated by Translink NI Railways and Iarnród Éireann, the Enterprise Strategic Development Plan outlines ambitions for the development of the service from procurement of new fleet and line electrification to journey time improvement options. To celebrate the rich history of the service, an exhibition of photographs of the train, its customers and staff through the years is now on display at Dublin Connolly Station and Lanyon Place Station.

At 10.30am on 11th August 1947, the inaugural Enterprise train service travelled from Belfast to Dublin – a seven-carriage steam train operated by the Great Northern Railway (Ireland). Enterprise Train Service Celebrates 75th Anniversary

Iarnród Éireann Chief Executive Jim Meade, said: “The Enterprise service has a rich and evocative history. I am certain that our customers will very much enjoy the exhibition that is now on display at Lanyon Place and Connolly.

Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway said: “Today we celebrate the service, our staff and customers over the decades. Whatever your reason for travel, Enterprise has been there to connect us to family, friends and opportunity, evolving with the times and better connecting Belfast and Dublin. Thank you to everyone who has shaped the Enterprise journey and we look forward to delivering our ambitious plans to secure the future of our flagship cross-border rail service.”

James McGinn, Managing Director of Hastings Hotels said: “We are delighted to launch our latest recruitment drive to find 12 new Trainee Managers. If you are passionate and committed to delivering excellent customer services, motivated, enthusiastic and keen to invest in your career development then this could be the programme for you. Since it was first introduced six years ago we have invested in the personal and professional development of our trainees who have gone on to work in full-time management positions across Hastings Hotels. The programme has been a huge success, both for the group and the individuals who have taken part, for example, two of our current General Managers completed it including Niall Burns who is at the helm of the 5-star Culloden Estate & Spa.”

HASTINGS HOTELS LAUNCHES RECRUITMENT DRIVE FOR 12 NEW TRAINEE MANAGERS

90 Now in its sixth year, the Hastings Beverage,hospitalityexperiencetraineedevelopmentgroup’sacrossandfast-trackfunctionalbyhospitalitytoprovidesManagementTraineeProgrammeauniqueopportunityhelpidentifyanddevelopthemanagersofthefuturecombiningoperationalandsupportexperience,leadershiptrainingtailoreddevelopmenttheaward-winningsixprestigioushotels.Throughoutthetwo-yearprogrammeeachwillgainextensiveacrossallareasofincludingFood&Housekeeping,General

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“We are dedicated to helping nurture the next generation of talent and encouraging and enabling employees to hone their skills and achieve a rewarding career in this exciting industry. The programme, delivered in association with Ulster University combines the hands-on experience with the theoretical aspects of leadership, finance, HR and marketing – all in line with the Hastings Hotels vision and values giving us a holistic approach to all of our trainees,” James concluded.

Northern Ireland’s leading collection of hotels has launched a new recruitment drive to find 12 new Trainee Managers.

James McGinn, Managing Director of Hastings Hotels is joined by current Trainee Managers Pearce Copeland, Aine Kelly, Margarida Pereira and Nicola Hardy as the leading collection of hotels launches a new recruitment drive to find 12 new Trainee Managers.

Operations, Front Office and Spa. In addition to this, they will have the chance to work at the worldleading visitor attraction, Titanic Belfast, in all aspects of the business including front of house, visitor experience and retail outlets. The programme has been designed in association with the Ulster University, and each successful Trainee Manager will graduate with a Diploma and a full-time management position in one of Hastings Hotels six properties.

“Our first Key Awards for Rising Stars will take place at our annual Hospitality Exchange 2022 event in October. Successful entrants will be acknowledged at a special lunch hosted by compere Pamela Ballantine.

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Eligible businesses can make a nomination via the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation website www.nihf.co.uk where further details on category criteria is available.

There are lots of deserving candidates and we look forward to rewarding the positive contributions each individual makes to the sector.”

Renamed the ‘Key Awards’, each awards event has been designed to celebrate excellence and innovation.

Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) Launches ‘Key Awards’

“We are encouraging members to nominate a star within their business who has shown exceptional talent in their chosen discipline and made a significant contribution to their business.

The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) has rebranded its annual industry awards calendar which champions talent within the hotel and hospitality sector. Stephen Meldrum, President of the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF), and Derry-Londonderry based Lauren Burton.

The first of this new suite of accolades, ‘Key Awards for Rising Stars’, was launched this month by Stephen Meldrum and DerryLondonderry based Lauren Burton. Discussing the importance of rewarding best practice within the industry, Stephen Meldrum, President of the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, said: “The Federation fully recognises the vital role that people play in making our hotel industry a success. Within the sector, there are businesses and individuals who are consistently striving to exceed expectations and they are progressing at a stellar pace. We’re keen to acknowledge these rising stars, highlight their career progression and raise the profile of opportunities that exist within a hotel setting.” Stephen continued: “We felt it was important to relaunch and rebrand our award categories and introduce a new category to truly reflect the evolution of the sector. In the coming year, we will run a competition for reception and housekeeping staff and we will explore how we can highlight best practice and recognise great people in our businesses.

Detailing the benefits of the new equipment for children coming to the Hospice, Suzanne Gordon, Physiotherapist at Children’s Hospice, explains: “Learning to ride a bike is one of the most memorable milestones of childhood, giving children an amazing sense of independence and achievement. With the specialist trike we can help give the children here that same sense of independence and achievement, providing new experiences while providing physical benefits such as improved hand and eye co-ordination, spatial awareness and lower limb mobility.

“We are so grateful to the Energy for Children Charitable Trust for their support to fund these two important pieces of specialist equipment, which will bring so much joy to many children that come to Horizon House each year.” Charity Liaison Officer, Gillian Orr said: “NI Children’s Hospice provides such important care and support to families in the most difficult of circumstances and we are delighted to help play a small part in ensuring it can provide the best possible experiences for the children and families that it supports.

HOSPICENIBOOSTMOBILITYFORCHILDREN’S

The NI Children’s Hospice has been given a boost for specialist mobility equipment with the recent granting of funds from the Energy for Children Charitable Trust. Suzanne Gordon, Physiotherapist, NI Children’s Hospice, with the new specialist trike and walker which have been funded by the Energy for Children Charitable Trust.

“Making a positive difference and helping local children in need is exactly why the Energy for Children Charitable Trust exists and we are pleased to help provide facilities and equipment to make things better for the families and organisations that are working to improve young lives”, added Gillian.

Founded on the principle that ‘all monies raised go directly to local children and young people’, the Trust aims to reach deeper into the heart of local communities throughout Greater Belfast and beyond in order to really make a difference to disadvantaged children’s lives. Since its formation, the trust has helped over 8,000 local children and continues to help those who need it most.

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Energy for Children is an initiative of Phoenix Natural Gas and the wider natural gas industry. The Charity was established in 2005 to provide financial support to groups and individuals that may slip through the net of the wider charity network.

92 The Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, based at Horizon House, provides specialist care for children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions, supporting over 300 children and their wider families each year. The Hospice takes a holistic approach to the care it provides, going beyond meeting clinical and medical needs to include wider social, psychological and spiritual care for children and their families. With the support of the Energy for Children Charitable Trust, the NI Children’s Hospice has been able to purchase a new specialist trike and walker that can be used to help children at the Hospice with their physiotherapy needs while also giving them greater independence and freedom to explore the Hospice with their family.

“The specialist walker is also of significant benefit as it assists

children who struggle to walk, helping them build their strength and confidence in a safe way and ensures that children who have access to this type of therapy at home don’t miss out when they need to stay with us at the Hospice.

Tony Marron, Managing Director of Liberty IT said: “We are delighted to have once again been named as one of the best workplaces for women. At Liberty IT, we are taking major steps in leading the way when it comes to being an organisation that firmly believes in equality and equity for all of our employees. We have invested heavily in this area in recent years and our employees play a huge role in helping us to create and implement the initiatives so this accolade is recognition for our people, our leaders and our Women in Tech employee resource group who have devoted their time to help create a positive working environment that provides equitable opportunities for all.”

Emma Mullan, Senior Director of Talent added: “As an organisation, we are really proud to receive continuous recognition for being an employer committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. This is the second year we have been included in the list of ‘Best Workplaces for Women’ and whilst it is a fantastic achievement, it also helps remind us of the importance in the work we are doing to help bridge the gap of the under-representation of the number of females working in tech. We are confident that the positive initiatives we have introduced at Liberty IT to date, and the ones we are working on to build on this in the months ahead, will play a vital role in helping to address this imbalance and also encourage more young women to pursue employment in this innovative industry and give women already working in tech the confidence and tools to further their career.”

A Derry/Londonderry-born charity, it has two offices; one in Derry-Londonderry and a second office in Belfast.

Liberty IT’s Senior Director of Talent, Emma Mullan, and Managing Director, Tony Marron, are pictured as the industry leader in digital innovation is recognised as one of the ‘Best Workplaces for Women 2022’ by Great Place to Work UK for the second consecutive year.

“AWARE has an established network of support groups across Northern Ireland, which are run by trained volunteers. Support groups welcome people with depression and bipolar disorder, as well as carers for people with the illness. We also deliver Information Outreach sessions and attend community events to give more information about AWARE and our services. “We are most grateful to NIHF President, Stephen Meldrum, for nominating AWARE to receive this funding and support.”

NIHF Golf Fundraiser Raises £1740 for AWARE

93 Eye on News Liberty IT has been recognised as one of the ‘Best Workplaces for Women 2022’ by Great Place to Work UK for the consecutivesecondyear. The industry leader in digital innovation has been placed number 14 in a list of 61 Large Organisations with 251 – 1,000 employees. The list commends organisations for creating fair access and advancement for all, fostering a sense of value and empowerment in employees and showcasing how they are putting these principles into practice. The results are based on what women themselves have anonymously reported to Great Place to Work UK about their workplace experience and how well represented they are throughout the workforce and leadership. The prestigious accolade is a result of the company’s work across several initiatives. These include two new support programmes - Female Mentoring Circles and a Buddy Scheme. Launched by its Women in Tech employee resource group in response to employee feedback, these initiatives help to ensure female employees can access and grow their own internal networks and avail of support they might need at different stages of their career. The company also introduced “The Power in Me” workshops aimed at empowering women on their career journey through addressing perceived barriers to advancement. Liberty IT also launched a new “Family Leave Toolkit” which supports new parents prepare for leave, during leave and ensuring a smooth return to the workplace after leave.

LIBERTY IT NAMED AS A BEST WORKPLACE FOR WOMEN

Monies raised on the day were matched by the NIHF in recognition of the importance of mental health and the role of AWARE.

Lesley Wright, Community Fundraising Officer for AWARE, is pictured with NIHF President Stephen Meldrum.

Discussing the donation NIHF President Stephen Meldrum says: “We’re thrilled that our members gave so generously to support AWARE. This charity relies entirely on local donations to enable it to provide the support that it does to local people affected by depression. I know what a difference their services can make.”

Thanking the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, Community Fundraising Officer for AWARE, Lesley Wright, adds: “At AWARE we believe little things make a big difference and we strive to make a really difficult time for our service users and their families a little easier.

The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) Golf Fundraiser, which was held in Galgorm Castle this summer, has raised £1,740 forAWARE - the Depression Charity for Northern Ireland and the only charity working exclusively for people with depression and bipolar disorder.

A IrelandinfluencerNowIrelandofYearfetchthefastestgrowingmicro-platforminNorthernandIreland,fetchhopes

One year ago, acrossinfluencerbrandsfetchmicro-influencerlaunchedRNNcommunicationsintegratedagency,Communications,Ireland’sfirstplatform,Ireland,connectingwiththemicro-communitytheislandofIreland.

Fetch Ireland is a sister company of RNN Communications. Christmas campaign booking slots are now available. To discuss your campaign brief, simply email: jolene@fetchireland.social or see www.fetch-ireland.social/www.RNNCommunications.com

fetch Ireland works with participating brands to schedule campaigns or ‘drops’ – mailouts of products/ services/experiences – which are then sent to influencers that have been hand-selected based on relevance to the brand/brief.

Riki Neill, Director of RNN Communications and fetch Ireland pictured with Jolene Kelly, Head of Services, fetch Ireland (right) and Kerrie Ann McElroy, Manager,Communityfetchireland.

There’s one single cost for a campaign which reaches 20 influencers and includes end of end campaign management, postage and packaging and reporting. Optional bolt-ons for increasing the campaign are no problem, and we can build bespoke campaigns.

Influencer marketing can be extremely time-consuming, from finding influencers that work for the brand, to researching and contacting them and managing a big mailout. We manage the campaign from start to finish including all contact with the influencers, coordination of mail out and collation of results for postcampaign reporting. So, we’ve done the research, we have the database, and our digital dashboard launches products to our fetch community. to have surpassed 500 registered microinfluencers before the end of the year.

fetch further elevated the campaign messaging and cut through by engaging with its network of micro-influencers, delivering widespread access to niche, engaged audiences for the brand This particular campaign reached over 50,000 people and created 40 pieces of unique and innovative content for the brand to repurpose on its own social media platforms.

The feedback we have received has been extremely positive. The top compliment we receive about fetch is the time we save in-house teams and agencies.

We worked with a Spirit brand to launch their ‘make at home’ Christmas cocktail range. The campaign with fetch Ireland was one tactic within a much larger PR campaign that included media relations, advertorials and sponsorship.

How does fetch Ireland work for brands?

In just one year, 500 pieces of unique content have been created for over 20 brands. fetch Ireland works directly with brands, and with distributors, advertising and PR agencies, and even tourism providers, to help bring their products and services into the social media newsfeeds of their target audience. Business Eye sat down with, Head of Services, Jolene Kelly to discuss how fetch Ireland is benefiting brands in the FMCG and drinks sectors and beyond, and what makes its offering so different.

Where fetch really excels is as part of a larger campaign e.g. in supporting a product launch. fetch can really complement and drive forward a wider brand campaign, create noise online, reach thousands of new eyeballs, and also create 50+ pieces of new and original content, that can be repurposed by brands.

Influencers apply to take part in a campaign, and the fetch team selects those influencers who are the best fit for the campaign based on their profile, audience and suggested content

What sort of feedback have you received from marketing managers who have used fetch Ireland?

How does fetch Ireland work within a marketing campaign? Is it complementary to other tactics?

In exchange, the approved influencers will create content about the product, e.g., product reviews, promotion of offers/discounts or new product launches, bringing the brand directly to their own niche audience, increasing awareness of a brand’s product/service and reinforcing its credibility and authority.

94 Eye on Communications

James Lewsley has been appointed as Head of Finance and Governance at National Museums NI James has been with National Museums NI since 2019, starting out in the organisation as Finance and Governance Manager before becoming acting Head of Finance and Governance in October 2020.

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4. Gary McAreavey 2. Tim Balfour 6. Rachel Richardson 3. Sacha Donnelly 5. Samantha Thompson 1. James Lewsley 7. Laura Menary 8. Jen Rea 9. Julie McKeown Eye Moving On For when business success needs admin support 10. Kathryn Holland 11. The Right Rev Alan Abernethy 12. Mukesh Sharma MBE DL

Laura has over 15 years experience of defending clinical and dental negligence claims on behalf of healthcare providers Jen Rea has been appointed as Head of Marketing and Sales at the Grand Opera House in Belfast. She takes up the role following the recent completion of a major £12 2 million restoration and development project at the historic Theatre. A first-class Honours Graduate in Communication, Advertising and Marketing from Ulster University, Jen has over 13 years of experience in marketing and communications, including within the arts and tourism sectors

With over 30 years’ experience in manufacturing and operations management within the engineering and construction industries, Gary McAreavey has been appointed Managing Director of Jans Offsite Solutions At the same group, Samantha Thompson a Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA) with an MSc in Professional Accountancy, has been appointed Head of Finance at Antrim based company, the Jans Group Law firm DWF has appointed Rachel Richardson as Director Employment. She has over 20 years experience specialising in employment law and practised previously in England prior to her relocation back to Northern Ireland Also at DWF, Laura Menary becomes Senior Associate, Healthcare.

Julie McKeown has been appointed to the Construction Industry Training Board She has over 33 years’ experience in the industry as the HR Director at Henry Brothers Kathryn Holland has been appointed as Commercial Manager at Down Royal Racecourse. She brings with her a decade of experience in Sales Marketing and Events Kathryn has spent most of her career running a range of diverse campaigns and projects to aid business growth across the public and private sectors

The Right Rev Alan Abernethy has been appointed Chair of The Goliath Trust, an educational charity based in Belfast. Rev Abernethy is a former Bishop of Connor serving from 2007 2019. He has served Church of Ireland parishes in Dundonald, Lecale, RAF Bishopscourt, Helen s Bay and Ballyholme. Mukesh Sharma MBE DL joins the board of The Goliath Trust. Mr Sharma serves as a board member of a number of charities including ArtsEkta Moving on Music and is a committee member of The Prince’s Trust Northern Ireland and Chair of the Northern Ireland advisory board for Barnardo’s He is Chair of the Northern Ireland Committee of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and Trustee of the National Heritage Memorial Fund UK

Tim Balfour has been appointed Senior Account and Business Development Manager at Barclay Digital Services He will be managing the company’s landline clients while also generating new business Tim had previously been working as a Fixed Line Account Manager at another telecoms firm County Down Irish Whiskey and Gin distillery, Hinch, has appointed Sacha Donnelly as its new Events Co-ordinator Sacha will join the 50-strong team at the business and is the first of several appointments to be announced The Newry native’s appointment will see her identify and report on business opportunities, managing sales operations to reach financial and customer targets at what is one of the newest, up and coming tourism locations here.

“I’ve been on a bike long enough to know it doesn’t take very much for things to go wrong. It can be the result of fatigue or it can be something random like a dog running out in front of you. I have no say on braking and so communication and trust will be key between us. The important thing will be for Gary to gain the confidence he needs so that we can both work, quite literally, in tandem.”

A Coleraine-based business owner is to undertake the most gruelling task of his career in aid of a charity that supports blind and visually impaired people this September.

Neil Ward, Head of Advocacy and Communications at Fighting Blindness praised the duo ahead of the tour. He said: “Driving the Cure for Fighting Blindness is undoubtedly a remarkable challenge and clearly is not for those of a nervous disposition!

Mr Ryan said: “I’m not daunted by the physical side of riding over 700km. We’ll get through that. It’s the technical aspects of riding with someone I’ve never been with before on a tandem that will be the challenge!

“Once in the saddle, the most important thing for me will be communication with Peter to make sure that we know exactly where we are going and what we’re doing so he can stop pedalling or push harder. The great thing is that I get to be the brake, while Peter gets to be the turbo. Peter is very fit and that energy, along with my adrenaline, will push me along.”

Mr Gary McClarty, Managing Director of MCL InsureTech, said: “During lockdown, I purchased a tandem so that my wife and I could go on some mini-adventures. We had great fun and I am now looking forward to taking on the challenge of cycling from Paris to Nice – 700km in just 6 days – to raise funds for Fighting Blindness.

He is hoping to raise €10,000 (£8,500) for Fighting Blindness, an Irish patient-led charity with a vision to cure blindness, support people living with sight loss and empower patients. It is the only Irish charity funding research into treatments for sight loss.

“Both Peter and Gary deserve our immense admiration and are real champions for the Fighting Blindness cause, which is hugely appreciated.”

The aim is to raise over €10,000 (£8,500) for research into sight loss conditions and members of the public can lend their support at www.idonate.ie/GaryAndPeter.

Eye on News Cycling Challenge For Coleraine Businessman

In just over a decade, its4women has become one of Ireland’s largest independently-operated insurance intermediaries. Customers are based across the island of Ireland.

Peter Ryan’s para-cycling success began in 2013 when he won the National Para-cycling Championships in the 40km time trial. After that, a long string of championship titles followed. He was diagnosed with Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy in 2010 — an optic nerve disease — and today has just 10 percent of his sight left. Since his diagnosis he has been supported by the Fighting Blindness charity.

96 Gary McClarty, founder and owner of MCL InsureTech, and the name behind online insurance brand its4women, will cycle from Paris to Nice on a tandem bike with Paralympian Peter Ryan. Mr McClarty will be the pilot responsible for the brakes while Mr Ryan will be the ‘stoker’ responsible for speed on the Paris2Nice Charity Cycle. It will be no easy journey as the duo navigate over 700km (435m) of sloping valleys and sheer mountain tops with some downward tracks providing the backdrop for speeds up to 110km per hour. The pair has embarked on an exhausting training programme ahead of the event (9-15 September), which will mean at least two 50km (31m) ride-outs mid-week and a longer 100km (62m) ride-out at weekends. International cycling coach, Anthony Walsh, will be guiding the duo between now and September to build up their bike-handling skills, techniques and stamina. Mr McClarty is undertaking the mission as part of the CSR efforts for the its4women brand, the company’s first bespoke insurance product.

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Standard equipment includes the MG Pilot advanced driver assistance system, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, 7-inch driver display, Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto connectivity, automatic LED headlights and rear lights, rear parking sensors, 17-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, automatic climate control and MG iSmart app connectivity.

Priced from £28,495, the MG4 SE Long Range model gets the larger 64-kWh pack which is capable of 281 miles of range on the WLTP Combined cycle. Compared to the smaller battery, the 64-kWh charges faster at up to 135 kW, enabling a charge time of only 35 minutes from 10% to 80% using a 150 kW DC rapid charger. The SE Long Range also gets additional standard kit compared to the SE Standard Range, including MG’s Active Grille Shutter System (AGS). The feature regulates air flow according to vehicle requirements and is said to improve aerodynamic efficiency by up to 30% and can increase EV range by as much as 10%. The MG4 EV Trophy will be the highest available specification at launch with a base price of £31,495 ($38,170). The range-topping model also gets the bigger battery but a lower range rating of 270 miles. Trophy models are equipped with an upgraded MG Pilot system that adds Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Change Assist (LCA) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). In addition, the MG4 EV Trophy gets a two-tone roof, rear privacy glass, twin aero rear spoiler, leather interior with electric driver’s seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, Bluetooth key, satellite navigation, 360 camera, wireless phone charging and an upgraded MG iSmart system compatible with live services. Based on parent company SAIC Motor’s Modular Scalable Platform, all MG4 EV models come with a single motor, rear-wheel-drive configuration and promise “superb roadholding and engagement,” thanks to 50:50 weight distribution, RWD configuration and a low center of gravity. MG also says the MG4 EV offers “exceptional storage, cabin and boot space” within its compact exterior dimensions thanks to its stretched 2,705-mm (106.5-in) wheelbase.

The new ID Buzz launches with three trim levels: Life, Style and 1st Edition. The entry-level Life starts at £57,115 and offers LED headlights, heated windscreen, ‘Buzz box’ removable storage, Discover Pro navigation and infotainment with 10-inch colour touchscreen, and wireless charging.

MG’s “no compromise” EV

Motoring with James Stinson www.cityauctiongroup.com

The interior features recycled synthetic material and ‘leather-free’, in addition to the all-electric powertrain. The ID Buzz is manufactured using sustainable components, with battery housings and wheel rims made from green aluminium and tyres from low-emission production.

There’s a Buzz about VW MG has announced pricing for the all-new MG4 EV, which it describes as an “affordable zero emissions motoring without compromise”. Volkswagen has started taking orders for its new all-electric ID. Buzz, with prices starting from £57,115.

he ID Buzz is Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ first allelectric vehicle and features a 77kWh lithium-ion battery, supplying 150kW (201 bhp) to a rear-mounted electric motor developing 229 ft lb of torque and capable of an all-electric driving range of up to 258 miles.

Priced from £61,915, Style adds the IQ. Light LED matrix headlights and adaptive interior ambient lighting and tailgate surround lighting, while the range-topping 1st Edition starts at £62,995 and adds 21-inch Bromberg alloy wheels, Discover Max navigation system with 12-inch colour touchscreen and comfort seats with memory function.

All ID Buzz variants are available with a two-tone paint option and feature a digital cockpit equipped with up to eight USB interfaces, including three USB-C ports for rapid charging supplied as standard, Hello ID voice control and online functionality via We Connect and We Connect Plus.

98 Eye on Motoring The all-electric compact hatchback will be offered in three specifications at launch: MG4 EV SE Standard Range, SE Long Range and Trophy Long Range. The base SE Standard Range model is priced from £25,995 and features a 51-kWh battery enabling a WLTP range of 218 miles.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is planning to produce up to 15,000 ID Buzz and ID Buzz Cargo vehicles this year. Once production is up to full speed, as many as 130,000 vehicles per year will be produced at the VW factory in Hanover. Order books for the ID Buzz Cargo van will open soon.

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Other standard kit includes automatic headlights, dual-zone air conditioning, automatic wipers and electric mirrors.

They now account for nearly 14% of all new car sales. Add in plug-in hybrids and that rises to more than 20%. Diesels made up less than 6% of sales. UK new car registrations fell by 9% to reach 112,162 units in July, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). In Northern Ireland sales were 15% lower, with 2,759 units sold during the month. Ongoing global supply chain issues, predominantly the lack of semiconductors, continues to cause problems for the sector, exacerbated by Covid lockdowns in key manufacturing and logistics centres in China, plus disruption from the war in Ukraine, all of which restricted production output and thus supply into the UK new car market. While the sector expects the second half to improve as supply issues start to recede, it is unlikely that the market will be able to recover the significant losses sustained so far. In Northern Ireland, some manufacturers are doing better than others with Hyundai filling two of the top three best seller spots in the first half of this year. The South Korean car maker has a strong range and a good dealer network in Northern Ireland, with the Hyundai Tuscon outselling all other models in the year to the end of July.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “The automotive sector has had another tough month and is drawing on its fundamental resilience during a third consecutive challenging year as the squeeze on supply bedevils deliveries. While order books are strong, we need a healthy market to ensure the sector delivers the carbon savings government ambitions demand. “The next Prime Minister must create the conditions for economic growth, restore consumer confidence and support the transition to zero emission mobility.”

All cars benefit from keyless entry, an electric tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and safety kit such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and traffic sign recognition.

100 Eye on Motoring Motoring with James Stinson www.cityauctiongroup.com

The cabin is also improved with aluminium pedals and gearshift paddles and black-and-red Alcantara upholstery. Prices start at £42,495.

The range-topping Veloce gains an improved ride, thanks to the addition of dual-stage valve suspension (DVS), and different styling again, with a darker front bezel, matt-black inserts, privacy glass and 19in alloy wheels.

Top ten new cars in Northern Ireland Jan-July 2022 1 Hyundai Tuscon 2 Ford Kuga 3 Hyundai Kona 4 VW Golf 5 Renault Captur 6 Ford Puma 7 Dacia Sandero 8 Vauxhall Corsa 9 Toyota Yaris 10 Peugeot 3008 Car sales have been falling in recent months but electric cars are bucking the trend. In the first half of 2022 sales of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) in the UK were nearly 50% higher than last year, in a market where overall sales were 12% lower. Alfa’s new baby SUV

The Speciale will be available only at launch and start at £38,595. Standard equipment includes a 10.25in touchscreen infotainment system with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and wireless smartphone charging.

The Tonale is available to order now, with first deliveries expected in the Autumn.

Alfa Romeo has revealed prices for the new Alfa Romeo Tonale, which will start at just under £40,000.

The new compact SUV, which joins the Italian firm’s line-up beneath the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, will be available in three specifications: Speciale, Ti and Veloce. Alfa has high hopes for the new Tonale, which it expects to be the firm’s biggest selling model with the Veloce anticipated to be the model’s most popular specification level.

Every Tonale is driven by the same 1.5-litre electrified powertrain, making this the first Alfa Romeo to feature a hybrid powertrain. It consists of a 157bhp turbocharged engine mated to a 48V electric motor and a small battery. Power is managed by a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Electric Car Sales Surging

The Ti is priced from £39,995 and gains a bespoke exterior design, with 18in wheels, a chrome front-grille bezel and gloss-black inserts, mirror caps and wheel caps. Inside, it receives black cloth upholstery and a leather steering wheel.

Ford’s Kuga was the second best-selling car, followed by the Hyundai Kona. The ever-popular VW Golf shows there’s life in the traditional family car yet, taking fourth spot in a top ten dominated by SUV-type vehicles. A special mention too for the Dacia Sandero, which was the seventh best selling car in Northern Ireland in the first half of the year. The Renault-owned, Romanian-built Dacia shows that new cars don’t need to cost the earth, with prices starting from just £12,000. Like many of us, the industry is clearly concerned about the economic outlook.

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Business Eye August September 2022

Articles inside

Local Developer Disrupts The Property Market

NI Companies Resilient In Face Of Ongoing Challenges

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Citi Belfast Success – A Case Study In Levelling Up

The True Measure Of Success: Measuring What Matters