Business Eye March April 2023

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Translink Marks 50th Anniversary Of Citybus

Translink has been marking the 50th anniversary of Citybus, the Belfast public transport network rebranded to Translink Metro in 2005, with original vehicles and retired staff involved in the occasion.

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Coney Island Coffee Launches Investment Programme

Artisan producer Coney Island Coffee has invested almost half a million pounds in new equipment and a major relaunch of its brand and products.

20 Lockton – Delivering Locally From A Global Base

As Lockton’s own corporate brochure puts it, the recent history of the insurance sector is one of mergers and acquisitions feeding the growth of a small number of global players. But Lockton’s own story is different. Belfast Office Head Gary Ennis and Trade Credit Director Nigel Birney take up the story.

24

Narratology – Making A Difference In Executive Recruitment

Business Eye’s Richard Buckley chats to Ruth McDonald, Founder & Managing Director of leading executive recruitment specialist Narratology, about the role of specialist agencies and how the market has changed, for employers and candidates alike...

30 LoughTec – Talking Tech To The World From Tyrone

Name a Northern Ireland company providing cyber security advice to worldwide giants like GlaxoSmithKline and most of us might hazard a guess on some of our biggest IT operations. Instead, it’s a relatively small firm based in Omagh that’s been catching the eye of some world-leading organisations for whom cyber security is a matter of business life or death.

54 Cinch Fast 30 – Weight Loss With Results

Founders Nicola McIlhagger and Angela Hunter talk about Cinch Fast 30, a 30-day intermittent fasting challenge which is producing real weight loss results for its participants.

60 Steering Rotary Ireland On A Steady Course

When Captain Sean FitzGerald retired last year after 48 years at sea most people would have forgiven him for putting his sea legs up on the sofa and taking some time out. But Sean FitzGerald isn’t most people. He had other plans.

50 Musgrave NI – Ambitious Growth Plans For Retail Group

Retail group Musgrave NI, operator of the SuperValu, Centra and Mace convenience brands here, has major plans for invest and grow its share of the market here in Northern Ireland. We catch up with Retail Director, Paddy Murney.

62 Changing The Game In Digital Marketing

After what began as an idea whilst hiking in the Mourne Mountains, co-founders Jess Orr-Downey and Hannah Bryans, successfully launched social media and search marketing agency, Part Three Digital, in 2020 at the peak of a global pandemic.

68 Roseann Kelly – Forging International Connections

The driving force behind Women In Business here in Northern Ireland talks about accelerating the important job of forging international connections to benefit women in business at home.

The continued refusal of the DUP to allow a return to devolved government here has been in stark contrast to the atmosphere of hope and celebration engendered by President Joe Biden’s brief visit but, in particular, by the GFA 25th Anniversary celebrations held at Queen’s University.

Comment

It was Senator George Mitchell’s emotional speech at that event that encapsulated the hope felt by so many in the wake of the Good Friday Agreement, a momentous achievement whatever some of the naysayers and negativity merchants might try to claim. Can we still find a way to return to the hope of those days 25 years ago? Can we find a way to start grabbing some of the economic and business benefits which can definitely come our way?

The lesson of the past couple of weeks of celebrations must be one of optimism. A way can, should and will be found to get us past the current political impasse. It’s not that we haven’t had to face hurdles before now.

That said, it’s fairly clear that little will happen between now and the local council elections on 18th May. On the face of it, these elections are for little more than choosing local representatives who can effectively deal with issues of whatever enlarged parish you happen to live in – potholes, cleaning, bins, leisure centres and the like.

But this is Northern Ireland, and even very local elections become very political very quickly. So you can bet your bottom dollar, as Joe Biden might say, that all of the local parties will be counting the heads when the local council results start coming in.

If the DUP does well, and it might well do so, they’ll see that as a vote of confidence for their boycott of the institutions.... rather than a vote of confidence for their local councillors and their ability to get a pothole fixed or a pedestrian crossing installed on a busy road.

Richard Buckley EDITOR

Irish Magazine Editor of the Year 2005

If the Ulster Unionists eat into their lead or if Alliance continues to nick seats, there might just be a different message. Sinn Fein, meanwhile, will expect to put more clear blue water between themselves and the SDLP, although both support a return to devolutions as soon as possible. So, as ever, elections are important here and this one will be no different.

All of that said, it’s hard to see how the leadership of the DUP can, even in its moments of unbounded joy, think that it has many options. The majority opinion around here is against its stance. And the party has few if any friends in the UK as a whole never mind further afield, where it has almost precisely none.

It needs to lean back and smell the coffee. And it needs to return to a democratic system of devolved government here.

As one of the leading architects of the Good Friday Agreement, former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, said recently, this is the only place in the world where the democratic system allows one party to hold everyone else to ransom until it gets exactly what it wants.

In any democratic system, that simply doesn’t make any sense. To make devolved government here sustainable, it’s something that’s going to have to change.

“The lesson of the past couple of weeks of celebrations must be one of optimism. A way can, should and will be found to get us past the current political impasse. It’s not that we haven’t had to face hurdles before now.”

Planning approval granted for £10m expansion of Urban HQ

architectural practice based in Belfast whose strong environmental credentials will ensure the new project will be among the most energy efficient and environmentally sustainable flexible workspaces in Ireland. The new building will be the first and only new-build flexible workspace in Belfast.

Michael Martin, Director of LIKE Architects: “Given the success of Urban HQ’s flexible workspace offering, we are delighted that planning permission has been granted on another landmark development in the heart of Belfast. Having been involved in previous schemes along Upper Queen Street, this building is sensitively designed to complement the current streetscape and is a positive sign for the office sector as Belfast looks to attract more businesses to the city centre.”

The design of the interior of the new building has been led by the same designers of Urban HQ’s Eagle Star House, Kingston Lafferty Design (KLD). KLD are an award-winning Dublinbased interior-design studio known for championing emotional wellbeing in its projects. The studio has created a space for the new development that follows the same high-level concept as Eagle Star House, a space that is not only functional but also enhances the well-being of its users.

The new site at 46-52 Upper Queen Street, directly opposite its existing building at Eagle Star House, will create a nine-storey, Grade A office building with private office suites, meeting rooms, a roof-top wellness studio, members’ lounge and event space.

Since launching back in September 2020, Urban HQ has transformed the flexible workspace market in Belfast and this second site represents a further £10m investment in the area, and is expected to support 100 full time construction jobs during the build as well as expanding Urban HQ’s own team in the city to service the new building.

Urban HQ made the decision to expand after experiencing exceptionally high levels of demand for

its first venture at Eagle Star House, a building that has been owned by the Walker family for over 20 years and was lovingly restored to bring big-city style workspace to Belfast. Ryan Walker, Urban HQ Owner and Director: “Being able to bring this additional £10m investment into Upper Queen Street to sit alongside our existing building is incredibly exciting. This area of Belfast has undergone a significant transformation in recent years and as a local business, we are proud to be playing a part in the story of regeneration in the City. Once complete, the unique offering from Urban HQ will help attract the very best companies from around the world to Belfast and we are very much looking forward to getting started with the next chapter of the Urban HQ story.”

Jamie McCoubrey, Urban HQ Managing Director: “Demand for this standard of workspace has surpassed even our expectations, with more employers and business owners looking for an office environment that offers flexibility, quality in terms of design and service and green credentials that can help them meet their own environmental objectives and ambitions. We also know that employees are looking to achieve a stronger work-life balance and having amenities such as yoga and mindfulness classes, shower facilities and cycle hubs all help employers deliver that to them. Our team on the ground offers the very best service, and have been delighted with how well our first couple of years have gone.”

The buildings have been designed by LIKE Architects, an award-winning

Roisin Lafferty, Creative Director, KLD: “Our aim with the design of the new building for Urban HQ was to create a space that allows you to flow freely whilst being met by elements of surprise, keeping the space energetic with bold forms and maintaining the strong brand of Urban HQ’s recognisable personality from the Eagle Star House building.

There is a sense of intrigue upon arrival, with every space creating a variety of sensations with strong patterns, textures and rich palettes emulating the soul of the original design while introducing a new twist to the space.”

With planning now in place, it is hoped that work will start on site this year, with the new building expected to welcome new members in 2024.

Northern Ireland’s leading flexible workspace provider, Urban HQ, has been granted planning approval for a second location in Belfast.

Eye on News

Kings Hall Apartment Plan Gets Go Ahead

The development company behind the Kings Hall Health and Wellbeing Park has been granted planning permission by Belfast City Council for the second phase of apartments aimed at those over 55. The move follows on from the successful first phase development of the residential project and will see a further 40 apartments built at the south Belfast site.

Situated on the northwest corner of the project on a brown field site, the ageappropriate residential development will be spread over four stories and include a resident’s lounge, library and club room.

The development offers a range of two and three-bedroom units, will be built around a landscaped central courtyard and will include two or three commercial units, developer Kings Hall Residential said.

The latest phase of the Kings Hall Health and Wellbeing Park project follows the completion and sale of

16 independent living apartments on the site and is in reaction to growing demand for similar accommodation.

As well as residential living accommodation, Kings Hall Health and Wellbeing Park also includes Kings Hall Life Sciences building Dataworks which consists of 40,000 square feet of grade A medical and shared space which is home to Kingsbridge Healthcare Group, precision medicine company Diaceutics and SpaMedica eye hospital. It is also home to care home operator Abbeyfield and childcare nursery Malone Kindergarten.

David Burrows, Director at Kings Hall Residential, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded planning permission for the next stage of the Kings Hall Health and Wellbeing Park development. The age-appropriate living apartments are a vital piece of the jigsaw which makes up our vision to develop a health and wellbeing park of the future for

Northern Ireland and will address a very real demand for such accommodation.

“As well as high specification accommodation, the addition of the resident’s lounge, library and club room will create a warm, collegiate atmosphere and provide a unique offering in a convenient location. We believe passionately that the people

of Northern Ireland deserve the choice of accommodation that has been available on the mainland for many years and the creation of communities to avoid social isolation, provide security and peace of mind is vital.

Construction at the site is expected to begin in the summer 2023 once a contractor has been appointed.

BELFAST CITY AIRPORT AND LOGANAIR CELEBRATE 40 YEARS

As the first airline to operate a scheduled commercial flight into Belfast City Airport in 1983, when it was known as Belfast Harbour Airport, Loganair passengers arriving on the Aberdeen flight on 30th March were welcomed with a celebratory water cannon display.

Katy Best, Commercial Director at Belfast City Airport commented:

“Loganair has had a longstanding presence at Belfast City Airport, dating back to our very first day of commercial operations in 1983, and coming together to mark this wonderful occasion has allowed us to reflect on our relationship through the years.

“Throughout the past 40 years, our partnership with Loganair has gone from strength to strength and we are very pleased to offer unrivalled convenience to both business and leisure passengers wishing to travel to Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness, and Teesside International Airport.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Loganair to deliver high quality service and choice for travellers long into the future.”

Luke Lovegrove, Loganair’s Chief Commercial Officer, said:

“Belfast City Airport plays an important role in the history of our airline as we operated the first scheduled services into the Airport in 1983.

“The aircraft operating into Belfast at that time was also built in Belfast. It’s a

privilege to be part of the 40th anniversary celebrations today and we look forward to continuing our relationship with the Airport providing unrivalled domestic connectivity.”

Flights from Belfast City Airport to Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness and Teesside International are available to book now at loganair.co.uk

Celebrations have taken place to mark the 40th anniversary of Loganair’s first flight from Belfast City Airport.

Katie Best, Belfast City Airport’s Commercial Director, with Loganair’s Luke Lovegrove

Translink marks 50th anniversary of Citybus

Citybus is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Rebranded Translink Metro in 2005 following a major review of the Belfast bus network, this milestone is being celebrated to mark the contribution of the service to the city and its people.

On 2nd April 1973, the company started operations with all staff, vehicles and depot assets of the former Belfast Corporation Transport Department transferring on this date. Citybus Ltd remains the legal trading name of Translink Metro to this day.

The public transport service has transformed over the decades with today’s modern, high tech, zero emission electric buses now operating across Belfast a world away from the 1970s Citybus fleet where some vehicles dated back to the 1950s.

Marking the occasion, Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway said:

“This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the contribution of Citybus in Belfast and to celebrate the success of the city’s Translink Metro and Glider service today.

“Starting up during the Troubles, Citybus kept services operating, maintaining a sense of normality. Bus drivers often faced adversity and we remember our colleagues who sadly lost their lives during this challenging period.

“Since then, there have been many numerous developments in terms of service routes, people, vehicles, ticketing and technology with the Citybus story also reflecting Belfast’s evolution over the years into a modern, vibrant city.

“However, one thing that has remained consistent has been the vital role played by the city’s bus service in keeping people connected and supporting economic, environmental and social wellbeing.

“Citybus, and now Metro and Glider, remain synonymous with Belfast – always a familiar and reassuring sight and an integral part of the city’s rich tapestry. I’d like to pay tribute to former and current colleagues who have shown tremendous dedication, resilience and service over the decades to keep the city moving,” said Chris.

Find out more about 50 years of Citybus at www.translink.co.uk/citybus50 and follow @Translink_NI #Citybus50.

Citybus is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Pictured marking the anniversary are front l-r Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive, Kerry Meadowcroft, Senior Inspector - Metro/Glider and Susan O’Neill, Translink Metro /Safety Bus driver along with some employees who have worked for Citybus and Metro or Glider over the decades.

SMALL CHANGES, BIG IMPACT

At Hilton Belfast we are proud to share that we have recently been awarded Green Tourism Silver Accreditation.

Our award winning, Meet with Purpose program offers Meeting Planners and Travel Managers the tools to make a big impression on guests while making a positive impact on the world with every meeting or event.

Impact

Meet in a more sustainable way using the Hilton LightStayTM meeting calculator. Reduce your environmental footprint by making informed low-waste choices and with Carbon Neutral Meetings we will offset your event’s carbon emissions by investing in quality carbon reduction projects

Energise with locally sourced and balanced menus, designed by our Head Chef, to boost energy and minimize leftovers. Share the bounty; quote Business Eye when making your enquiry and we will donate £1 per delegate to The People’s Kitchen Belfast.

Engage with rewarding social impact opportunities that align with your company ESG goals. At Hilton Belfast we have partnered with Clean the World to recycle our discarded soaps. We can offer recommendations on how your organisation can do this.

Are you in the tourism and hospitality sector? Then the TED programme is here to boost your business.

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Eye on News

Assess, Adapt,

Coney Island Coffee invests almost half a million and relaunches brand and products

Artisan producer Coney Island Coffee has invested almost half a million pounds in new equipment and a relaunch of its brand and products.

The move will see it more widely available in a range of outlets across Ireland as well as through its online store and subscription service.

The company - formerly called Cinema Coffee Project - has acquired a state-of-the-art Giesen roaster and associated equipment for its Lurgan roastery, and has invested significantly to create its new brand, in training and development, and in new 100% compostable and recyclable packaging.

Led by Annie David, commercial director, and Niamh McAliskey, operations manager, the company is a sister business of Lurgan-based Spadetown Brewery. It was acquired by entrepreneurs Patrick McAliskey

and Martin Dummigan in 2021.

Coney Island Coffee produces small batch roasted coffee, expertly adjusted roast by roast to extract the very best from each bean, using responsibly sourced green beans.

The brand is named after Coney Island, which is situated just off the south shore of Lough Neagh.

The firm’s customers include Avoca, which is hosting a launch event for the new brand on Saturday 8th April in Belfast. Currently available in some of Avoca’s leading stores, the brand is set to be rolled out across Avoca’s estate, with the brand aiming to double turnover with the retailer.

Coney Island’s new products include a Signature Espresso Blend,

a Single Origin Nicaraguan, a Single Origin Guatemalan, and a Limited Edition 200 Fermented Single Origin Colombian Speciality Coffee.

Annie David says that the team is focused on bringing the finest coffees to a wider market.

“We’re super excited to be launching the new brand. We’ve been working hard to make sure it aligns with our aim of connecting with the community, environment, suppliers and customers.

“The investment and rebrand reflects growth plans, and customers will start to see Coney Island Coffee products more widely available in leading retailers across Ireland over the months ahead. We will also be

opening our subscription model to an even wider range of customers.

“A big part of our ethos will be to continue sourcing and roasting the best coffee beans available and doing good in the Lurgan area by investing in our local community and helping create new jobs,” she adds.”

The firm is also launching a number of complimentary product ranges alongside the brand relaunch to include hot chocolate, Monin coffee syrups, The Fine Cookie Company cookies and Miss American Pie Cookies.

Annie David, commercial director, Patrick McAliskey co-founder, and Niamh McAliskey, operations manager, at Coney Island Coffee’s roastery in Lurgan.

Development Plans For Ulster Folk Museum

National Museums NI has submitted a Proposal of Application Notice to Ards and North Down Borough Council ahead of revealing plans to reinvigorate the Ulster Folk Museum as a dynamic heritage and environment resource.

Expected to cost in the region of £50 million, the project has already attracted just over £1million support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to help progress the development stage of the project. The plans prioritise the creation of learning facilities which will enable more people to get involved in heritage and environmental conservation in new and different ways.

First opened in 1964, the museum was founded to preserve a way of life distinctive to the people of Ulster which, despite altering little for centuries, had started to disappear due to rapid changes to society. Now, almost 60 years later, the newly revealed plans seek to ‘reawaken’ the significance of these forgotten customs, skills and knowledge as resources for promoting new ideas and actions in response to the issues we face in today’s world including cultural diversity, wellbeing and environmental change.

The scheme includes two new, carefully located buildings – a ‘Culture Hub’, creating a greater sense of welcome and orientation for visitors, and an ‘Industry Zone’, telling the story of industrialisation and unlocking the potential of a unique collection that is currently inaccessible to the public. Plans also include the repurposing of currently inactive and underutilised spaces to create dynamic learning facilities to enable greater participation in activities such as heritage craft skills and environmental volunteering.

Chief Executive of National Museums NI, Kathryn

Thomson, said there has never been a more appropriate time for investment. She explained: “At National Museums NI we want to ensure inclusive access to our museums and maximise the learning, wellbeing and economic benefits they bring to wider society. We have a fantastic opportunity to reawaken the Ulster Folk Museum and encourage people to reconnect with its heritage and environmental assets in new ways.”

Kathryn continues: “The rich cultural landscape and diverse collections preserved at the Ulster Folk Museum have never been more relevant to our lives today. With co-ordinated investment, we can help to

bring people together through heritage and inspire new thinking about our shared and sustainable future.”

The role that the museum can play in protecting the planet and educating people about the environment and biodiversity will be a key part of the wider plans. Ulster Folk Museum already has a successful partnership with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) who have relocated their Native Tree Nursery to the museum. Working with museum staff, TCV have access to a plant collection containing more than 100,000 specimens, many of which are native flora, supporting planting programmes and biodiversity conservation.

The partnership also introduced a Green Gym offering people the opportunity to better their physical and mental health by planting fruits and vegetables at the cottage gardens within the museum.

Dianne Keys, Operations Leader at The Conservation Volunteers said: “We are living through a climate crisis. The Ulster Folk Museum can become a real focus for people who want to make a new and different way of creating a sustainable future, and we’re really looking forward to continuing to be involved in its development.”

Throughout the development of the project, National Museums NI will engage with a range of user groups to understand their diverse needs. A period of Preapplication Community Consultation will commence on 13 April and members of the public will be invited to provide feedback on the proposals online at www.reawakeningfolkmuseum.com from Friday 24 March and at a drop-in community consultation event scheduled to take place at Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, on Thursday 20 April from 4pm to 8pm. An additional drop-in session will take place at Ulster Museum, Belfast, on 21 April from 11am to 3pm.

Eye on Hospitality

Ballycastle eco hotel gears up for launch of new £1.2m restaurant

One of the most sustainable hotels in Europe, The Salthouse in Ballycastle, is gearing up for the opening of its new restaurant, The Lookout.

An indoor and outdoor culinary venue, The Lookout represents a £1.2m investment and also includes a downstairs prep area with a bakery that will support other elements of the hotel.

Among the roles created as a result of the investment are 10 new chef posts. Those who take up the positions will be the force behind a predominantly European menu boasting a host of pasta dishes as well as burgers and other classic plates. Keeping the sustainable ethos in mind, every ingredient used at The Lookout will be sourced locally where possible, with some even grown on-site.

The decision to elaborate on the existing offering at the hotel, which includes a 24-bed hotel, six eco lodges, spa and another restaurant was prompted by a surge in demand for breaks at The Salthouse.

It is expected The Lookout will become a favourite with locals as well as day-trippers and the staycation market.

It will also bring the hotel’s restaurant offering to two, with the existing venue continuing to serve up its renowned seafood dishes and classic mains in a more formal setting.

Carl McGarrity, Director at The Salthouse Hotel, said: “When we launched The Salthouse in 2019 we

knew we were filling a void in the hospitality scene, and the subsequent demand from our customers is behind our expansion, including the addition of the new restaurant.

“The Lookout will offer a relaxed dining alternative that will complement our existing a la carte venue and offer our guests the sustainable experience that comes hand in hand with being part of The Salthouse culture.

“Carbon neutral is a term that is being used more and more, by consumers and businesses alike. Our customers want it, they expect high environmental ethics from service providers and due to that demand, we have chosen to expand to meet their needs.

“Our new restaurant will elevate our offering and provide more choice for the ethically minded traveller, but it will also ensure we are loyal to our sustainability theme, all whilst offering the best of service, quality and the most stunning views that stretch across the Atlantic.

“A major recruitment drive is underway ahead of the expansion

and we look forward to launching to the public this summer.”

The Salthouse is a self-sufficient business. An onsite wind turbine and solar panels have been integrated into the design and the energy that they generate powers the hotel and eco lodges.

The property also has a ‘no single use’ plastics policy where possible while the water that services The Salthouse is from its very own borehole.

The Salthouse, located on Dunamallaght Road in Ballycastle, is approximately a one-hour drive from Belfast and Derry-Londonderry, and three hours from Dublin, which makes it very accessible for both local and international visitors.

The Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones filming locations are only a short drive away, while some of the top golf courses and fishing locations are nearby.

The business is a joint venture between Nigel McGarrity and a local property developer.

The Lookout will open this summer, creating 30 new jobs.

L-R Nigel McGarrity is pictured with his son Carl McGarrity, Director at The Salthouse Hotel.

Views from The Salthouse Hotel

Eye on News

An Ultrafast way to secure your mortgage

Belfast-based mortgage advisory firm, Mortgage Propeller, is celebrating two years in business by reporting a 600% increase in sales throughout the UK and the creation of 5 additional jobs.

Matthew McAllister, co-founder of Mortgage Propeller, 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.

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 continued: “Our broker platform, mortgagepropeller.com is a fully automated marketplace connecting home buyers from all over the UK with mortgage brokers. Within the space of seven months, £55m of mortgage applications went to over 30 brokers - that’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.”

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.

Speaking about the impact of Ultrafast Full Fibre on local businesses, Openreach NI Director Garret Kavanagh said: “We are delighted to hear about the impact Openreach NI’s build programme has had across local businesses in Northern Ireland. It is fantastic that having access to 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.”

And the future continues to look bright for Mortgage Propeller who now have eight fulltime staff and are actively hiring more.

Mortgage Propeller co-founders Matthew McAllister and Paul Dalzell.

We’re the right people to find the right person for the right job. honeycomb.jobs

Eye on Broadband

Fibrus hits 250K milestone

Northern Ireland broadband provider Fibrus has achieved the milestone of connecting 250,000 homes across Northern Ireland and Cumbria this month. The company has hit this landmark at an impressive speed since its inception in 2018, with its sights set on reaching 1 million homes in the near future.

Fibrus chief executive Dominic Kearns reflected on the company’s outstanding growth at a celebratory event in Lisburn’s Larchfield Estate last month, addressing the 400 staff, suppliers, friends and partners in attendance.

“You are the reason this business has achieved this milestone and with continued effort and partnership with

our supply chain, we will continue to exceed targets” he said. “Our partners are a major part of the Fibrus success story so far, and that will be the case going forward as well. We don’t take pleasure in meeting targets, we take pride in smashing them. That’s the Fibrus way.”

Kearns had a special word of thanks for those who have helped make the home-grown company a possibility. “I

want to thank Viberoptix and Charles Brand, they have been with us from the very start, delivering our infrastructure across the North, just like they said they would. Also to KN Circet who came on board as another primary contractor for the Project Stratum contract and to our design partner Entegro would have also been with us from the first step on this connectivity journey.”

He continued in thanking the many kind sponsors in attendance including Holm Utilities, Telenco, Genesis advertising, Electricityworx Ltd and many more.”

Kearns said the company began with a singular goal - to digitally connect communities so that everyone could have the same opportunities when it comes to working from home or operating online.

“We will continue to level up rural communities by providing the full fibre broadband connectivity that people need,” he said. “At the same time, we

will give back to the areas in which we operate and be a real force for good. By the end of this year, we will have given £180,000 back to communities in Northern Ireland and Cumbria in England via our community fund partnerships.”

Hitting the quarter of a million mark is a significant landmark for the Belfast based company that only started out during the Covid pandemic and now employs 400 staff. So far, Fibrus has laid over 17 million metres of fibre - remarkably, that’s more than the distance between the Giant’s Causeway on the north coast and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Fibrus is on a mission to reach one million homes in the future, and this week’s milestone of 250K premises is just the beginning.

L-R Colin Hutchinson, Conor Harrison, Dominic Kearns, Linda McMillen and Shane Haslem.

Eye on Broadband

L – R – Stefan Cunning, Rachel Lightburn, Maria Moreno Diaz, Kevin Gillespie, Michelle Mallon.

(Marc Fitzachary & Steve Turner (Anixter), Stephen Carlton (Corning).

Conor Harrison with Jimmy Murphy, Teo Boanchis, Grainne McKernan, Colin Dalton, and Jim Doyle from Entegro.

Dominic Kearns with Viberoptix team L-R Kieran Martin, Naomhan McCrory, Kevin Brogan and SeanOg Brennan.

Chief People Officer – Linda McMillen.

Shane Haslem, Aaron Dumican, Jemma Dougherty and Billy McClean.

Dominic Kearns with representatives from Telenco.

Beth Michell.

Jennifer Devine and Gemma Stewart.

Eye on Cover Story

DELIVERING LOCALLY FROM A GLOBAL BASE

city, a team with more than 1,000 years of insurance industry experience under its belt.

“The fact that we’re a privately owned company sets us apart, our focus isn’t on shareholders and the stock-market but on our Clients” says Gary. “We haven’t grown globally by acquisition, we’ve grown by recruiting the right people. It’s just as relevant here in Northern Ireland, where we’re part of a global business, but one which empowers us to run autonomously here in Belfast.”

Jack Lockton founded the firm in the USA back in 1966 and it now ranks as the largest privately owned independent insurance broker in the world with $2.7 billion in revenues and 27% year on year growth. That’s not to mention 9,500 people worldwide and 100+ office locations.

It’s a clear source for pride for Lockton’s people, amongst them Gary Ennis, Partner and Head of the Firm’s Belfast office, itself an employer of 125 people in the centre of the

“We’re a global business but we’re certainly not just corporate-focused when it comes to the local insurance market. Our customers range from the biggest to the smallest and we’re really proud to have 99% customer retention and to have clocked up 16 years of year on year growth.”

Internationally, Lockton’s growth has been little short of impressive. It took the global firm 52 years to notch up its first $1 billion in revenue, seven years to record the second billion and just four years to come close to the third.

As Lockton’s own corporate brochure puts it, the recent history of the insurance sector is one of mergers and acquisitions feeding the growth of a small number of global players. But Lockton’s own story is different, and it’s a story as relevant locally as it is on a global scale.

Eye on Cover Story

Eye on Cover Story

“Jack Lockton laid down basic principles for all Lockton offices around the world. Following these principles we’ve been able to shape this business to fit Northern Ireland, its business customers and its economy.”

Locally, Lockton had a £16 million revenue last year and put some £125 million worth of insurance premium value into the wider marketplace. The Belfast operation, based just off Bedford Street, has four distinct operating departments – broking, claims and risk management. The fourth is a relatively new Trade Credit Insurance operation, headed up by Nigel Birney and already on a fast growth track.

“It’s another example of how we aim to grow organically,” says Gary. “We felt that there was a gap for a dedicated trade credit insurance offering, so we recruited the best people in the business to run it. The demand we’ve seen so far from business customers here backs up that decision. In fact, the new department has now become a Trade Credit Centre of Excellence within Lockton across GB and Ireland.”

Nigel Birney, one of the most experienced trade credit insurance

experts on these islands, says that Trade Credit Insurance cover is becoming more important for local businesses to have during these times of economic uncertainty and instability, and not just those in the construction and manufacturing sectors, where it’s traditionally employed, he points to a rise in interest from pharmaceutical companies affected by slower payments from health authorities.

“There are a of lot threats and forces out there affecting businesses, especially at the moment” says Nigel. “The rising cost of doing business, supply chain issues, geo-political issues, energy and so on and Trade Credit Insurance provides real protection to businesses against the potential

catastrophic impact of bad debt on cashflow when a customer defaults in payment, particularly during these uncertain times.

“It’s designed to allow companies to trade with confidence knowing that they’re protected against any potential credit risk. So, it’s a bit like any other insurance product, only targeted specifically at protecting against the existential threat of an unforeseen bad debt”

“But there are plenty of other benefits such as access to market intelligence on new and existing customers, the ability to offer credit terms where others can’t, reduced bad debt reserve requirement and increased access to working capital facilities, as banks will often view Trade Credit

Insurance as a form of collateral.”

Nigel Birney heads up a sevenstrong team of experienced trade credit specialists, the largest and most experienced team of its kind in Ireland, providing independent advice on all aspects of trade credit insurance. His department also deals in the surety market, advising on and providing bonding options, particularly for companies trading in the construction sector.

In the wider Lockton business in Belfast, there might be a number of distinct insurance departments, but Gary Ennis stresses that all work together as one unit under one roof. “We’re one of the few companies with our claims people in-house and that makes a real difference to our customers,” he says.

“Covid has made a difference to all of us. We helped to navigate a lot of our customers through the pandemic. Every company has had a closer look at how it does things and at how it might grow in the future. We’re no exception as a business ourselves.”

Looking to the future, Lockton Belfast plans further growth and Gary Ennis concedes that it might soon have to look at larger office options in the city.

“The rising cost of doing business, supply chain issues, geo-political issues, energy and so on and Trade Credit Insurance provides real protection to businesses against the potential catastrophic impact of bad debt on cashflow when a customer defaults in payment.”

A SPECTACULAR VENUE FOR SPECTACULAR EVENTS

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Eye on Executive Recruitment

Ruth McDonald’s Narratology

Making A Difference In The Executive Recruitment Space

Business Eye’s Richard Buckley chats to Ruth McDonald, Founder & Managing Director of leading executive search firm Narratology, about the role of specialist consultancies and how the market has changed, for employers and candidates alike...

Eye on Executive Recruitment

Tell me more about Narratology – areas of speciality… what makes you different?

We’re an executive search firm and we’re very fortunate to work with brilliant companies in Northern Ireland and beyond to appoint the most senior positions in their organisations. Quite often we work with company owners and CEOs to create new roles, so our assignments can start long before we actually speak to prospective candidates. Clients work with us to define the role, develop a compelling proposition in their market and then to identify and engage the top talent they’re looking for. We manage the entire process on behalf of our clients which ensures absolute discretion for them and for our candidates.

The recruitment market postCovid - what has changed? What are candidates looking for now?

What candidates are looking for has evolved but I would say it started before Covid and like many things perhaps Covid accelerated it. When I named Narratology 4 years ago it was because I could see that executive candidates bought into the story of a business, the vision, the values and where they themselves can make an impact. That’s even more the case today. It matters to leaders how companies do business, how they treat people, how their future fellow leaders operate in the organisation. They’re more socially conscious and they’re attracted by good initiatives in this space. They’re interested in how they can progress, so it’s not just about the job itself, it’s the opportunity it presents.

What are companies now looking for in leaders?

Companies aren’t looking for caretakers, they’re looking for decision makers, strategic thinkers who can set the vision and clear objectives for their teams to deliver on. They’re looking for strong people leaders – team builders who can inspire and develop talent but also drive accountability at all levels of the organisation. And they’re looking for leaders who can adapt, who can listen to diverse points of view and who can change course if required.

We hear a lot about shortages of good people… does this apply at executive level?

It’s not impossible to find great senior talent. But sometimes companies have to make a choice between having no one or worse having someone with the wrong behaviours, and perhaps making

a compromise. Could they compromise on level and consider a high potential senior manager instead of a director? Could they afford a higher salary to buy in the industry capability they’re looking for? Could they compromise on geography and consider remote working to find a unique skillset?

Or could they consider an already successful leader coming from a different industry? That’s something I push clients on as it’s a great opportunity to bring diversity of thinking and fresh perspective to an existing leadership team.

What can organisations do to make themselves more attractive to new people?

Companies have to work harder than ever before to attract talent, even at executive level. In the past we talked about “employers of choice”. Now there’s lots of choice.

At Narratology that’s our job to create a proposition that stands out amongst our clients’ competitors. But outside of this there are a few things companies can do to make themselves attractive. We talk about employer branding. Having a strong employer brand means having a compelling story and a clear mission that people want to be part of. Companies need to shout loudly about the things they are proud of. We all know the global names who do this well but there are Northern Irish businesses who have amazing employer brands and are standing out above the crowd.

If a candidate is considering your company, they’ll look at your website, they’ll Google the company, they’ll Google you, they’ll check out your leadership team on Linkedin. From this information how would I perceive life working at your company?

What would be my experience of joining your leadership team?

What about your recruitment process. It has to be a positive experience for everyone. It can be robust and succinct at the same time. At Narratology we set timescales with our clients at the outset to ensure everyone stays engaged.

What can they do to retain talent?

People stay with companies for the same reasons as people join. I mentioned the recruitment process. How is your onboarding process? I spoke to someone recently who was bowled over by the effort everyone had made to welcome him. First impressions count and a warm welcome doesn’t cost a thing.

We advise on remuneration and at executive level it isn’t all about the basic salary. Leaders are more interested now in their efforts being rewarded in the long term. And it’s not all about equity either, for many organisations that just isn’t an option. Larger companies do tend to have long term incentive schemes or even share options, but privately owned firms can actually be more creative when it comes to additional incentives. Benefits such as healthcare and pension are important at this level and again where large companies might have comprehensive benefits packages in place, privately owned companies can be creative and can reward senior talent with what matters to them.

And one final point around retention. It’s not just about promotion, it’s about progression. Giving people opportunities to develop and broader experience so they’re not standing still. This adds to the quality of the employee experience and shows them they’re valued.

So in what instances do companies work with Narratology? When should they contact you?

We focus on executive level appointments so C-suite, director senior management and Boardroom hires. In a

lot of instances clients work with us to create a new role whether that’s due to growth, due to change or replacing a key position at a different level. Everything we do is based around research and insights into our clients’ markets so (before they make any business decisions) it’s good to be informed - and sometimes reassured - on availability of talent, salary benchmarking and our previous experiences as soon as possible.

Succession planning isn’t just about the CEO retiring. Any key role in an organisation carries a risk if there isn’t sufficient talent to backfill it. Roles become vacant for a variety of reasons and sometimes too soon. We support our clients with their succession planning through talent mapping and providing tangible data long before we need to recruit.

Finally, Ruth, what are the advantages in using a search firm like Narratology as against doing it themselves?

Finding the right senior talent isn’t easy. It can be time consuming. It can be very costly if it goes wrong. This is what we do every day, every week. We know our clients, we know their markets and we know how to deliver successful outcomes first time.

“Companies have to work harder than ever before to attract talent, even at executive level. In the past we talked about ‘employers of choice’. Now there’s lots of choice.”

Eye on News

MIT’s brightest young technology innovators bound for Donegal

On May 11-12, MIT’s Innovators Under 35 will bring Europe’s most aspiring young innovators to Gaoth Dobhair, on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way to showcase their work and demonstrate how they are already helping to make the world a better place through pioneering advances in technology.

The MIT Innovators Under 35 has been celebrating young changemakers for more than 20 years and will also feature some of the world’s leading technologists, with biomolecular physicist Georgios Nounesis, Director of the Greek National Centre for Scientific Research, ‘Demokratis’, delivering a keynote to the final list of Young Innovators.

Georgios and the young innovators will also be joined

by distinguished leaders in innovation and tech from Italy, Andorra, the USA, Sweden and Holland including Vanesa Aroyo, Head of the Innovation Agency in Andorra and author Nicklas Bergman who sits on the Investment Committee of the European Innovation Council Fund.

Notable alumni of MIT’s Innovators Under 35 include Google Founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page, CRISPR Technology Pioneer Feng Zhang and Tesla Motors Co-Founder JB Straubel.

The festival is sponsored by Údarás na Gaeltachta, the North West City Region Councils of Derry City and Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council, NUI Galway, Catalyst, Randox, Optum, Ulster University, Unosquare and Atlantic Technological University.

The focus of this year’s festival will look at how technology can make society a better place and help generate economic growth in areas including biotechnology and medicine, computer and electronics, hardware, software, Internet, artificial intelligence, robotics, telecommunications, nanotechnology and materials, energy and transportation.

The festival will also showcase the wildness and beauty of Gaoth Dobhair and the surrounding Gaeltacht area that is playing host to this year’s visitors. The 175 attendees will see how truly remote the Gaeltacht area is, but how the modern advances in technology mean that a place as remote as Gaoth Dobhair can also be as connected as any major world city.

Connla McCann, Director of Aisling Events which is hosting the festival said:

“Gaoth Dobhair is an area of rich heritage and culture right at the heart of the largest Gaeltacht in Ireland. Despite being located on the Atlantic’s Edge the area can now also boast some of the strongest broadband connectivity on the island of Ireland and a range of European-class companies at its business park. It’s digital Gteic hub provides accommodation for tech workers and entrepreneurs who can deliver services for global companies while still living under the shadow of the Errigal. It’s a treat to be bringing the most brilliant young innovators across Europe to a region which is demonstrating that innovation can happen on the road less-travelled.”

(L-R) Adam Goodall, Investment Project Manager at Derry City and Strabane District Council; Amy Dickson, Events Coordinator at Aisling Events; Councillor Liam Blaney, Mayor of Donegal County Council and Micheál Ó Dubhir, Development Officer at Údarás na Gaeltachta.

A world-leading technology conference that showcases Europe’s brightest young tech stars will be hosted in Donegal next month.

Eye on News

Millar McCall Wylie appoints new Managing Partner

Belfast law firm Millar McCall Wylie has appointed Jan Cunningham as its new Managing Partner in a development that it describes as ‘a positive, natural progression as the firm continues to evolve’.

The multi-specialism law firm, which employs 53 staff between its Belfast city centre and Ballyhackamore offices, has continued to sustain significant growth year on year and experienced its most successful year to date in 2022.

An experienced lawyer recognised by the Chambers and Legal 500 directories, Jan Cunningham has been a partner at Millar McCall Wylie since 2011 and leads its employment law department.

Speaking about his new role, Jan Cunningham said: “I am extremely honoured to be stepping into the role of Managing Partner, following in the footsteps of Peter McCall, who will continue to be as active as ever, leading our Real Estate team with his invaluable expertise. The firm has a talented and experienced board of directors and along with our Chief Operating Officer, I know I will benefit from continued support and direction.

“We have ambitious plans across all areas of the firm, underpinned by our first class team and the support of my fellow directors. Our focus is on growing client work whilst cultivating an employee experience that attracts and retains the very best talent. Maintaining a positive culture as we continue to scale is key.

“I would like to thank the whole team at Millar McCall Wylie for their ongoing support as well as our clients for their trust, partnership and loyalty,” Jan Cunningham said.

One of the founders and outgoing Managing Partner Peter McCall added: “I am delighted to be handing over the reins to Jan. He is extremely well regarded by his colleagues, clients and peers and is ideally positioned to help us deliver the growth plans we have in place, whilst continuing to nurture our progressive, inclusive company ethos.

“We are growing and that is thanks to driven people throughout the firm. This development of Jan’s role is a very positive, natural progression as the firm continues to evolve. Everyone at Millar McCall Wylie congratulates Jan as we embrace this next chapter with enthusiasm,” Peter McCall said.

Eye on Research Workplace Stress Takes A Major Toll

Research has found that workplace stress is having a greater impact on individuals than relationship breakdowns. According to recent research conducted by Westfield Health, more than a quarter of workers (27%) ranked their job as more stressful than a relationship breakdown (8%).

These worrying statistics highlight the negative effects of workplace stress on individuals, surpassing even stressful personal circumstances.

These findings are consistent with other recent research indicating that mental health in the UK workforce is declining. On average, employees are taking a week off work due to mental health issues every year, yet a staggering 66% aren’t accessing any mental health support. As a result, an astounding 17.9 million working days were lost across the UK in 2022, having a direct impact on businesses in terms of costs related to employee absences.

Given that more than 800,000 workers were affected by stress in 20221, it is clearly an issue that needs to be addressed. More than half (51%) of all work-related ill health cases were due to stress, depression or anxiety, up from 40% in 2014, highlighting a new priority for businesses to focus on.

If unchecked, these figures pose a substantial threat not just to individuals’ long-term mental health, but also to employers. There are proven links between workplace stress levels and drops in productivity, which can directly impact a company’s bottom line.

Richard Holmes (pictured), Director of Wellbeing at Westfield Health, says:

“The research shows a definite shift in how people are perceiving their work life, with more people suffering from the negative impacts of workplace stress and finding it even more stressful than their personal circumstances. These findings give employers an insight into the issues their workforce is facing, with workplace stress becoming a new priority and allowing them to address and potentially resolve some of these stress triggers.”

“With increased cost-of-living pressures accompanying high levels of workplace stress, this can become a huge risk factor for organisations. Not only does workplace stress impact morale and culture, but it

can also have detrimental effects on productivity, staff turnover and ultimately the company’s bottom line.”

Employers must be aware of the tell-tale signs of workplace stress within an organisation to reduce the negative impact it can have on the business. Team members having difficulty concentrating, forgetting deadlines or displaying unusual behaviours can all be indicators of stress. Additionally, employees taking an unusual number of days off, particularly sudden instances of extended annual leave, may also be a warning sign, advises Richard.

“HR teams should be well equipped to spot, approach and support employees in managing

workplace stress. This support could include encouraging them to take time out by making sure they take regular breaks, frequent catchups between managers and employees, and additional support such as providing helplines for employees that may be struggling.

“Overall, businesses should try and create a positive culture where employees are encouraged to be open and honest about how they are feeling. This approach could help to reduce the incidence of workplace stress in the first place and empower those who may be struggling with stress to speak up to HR or their manager on how the business can support them.”

Meetings and Events with a difference, at Killeavy Castle Estate

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In addition to a range of spaces, function rooms and outdoor areas that can be configured to meet your exact needs, it is the setting of Killeavy Castle Estate that sets it apart from other venues, providing a calm space to make strategic decisions, a break from the norm that will rejuvenate your creativity and a surrounding landscape that provides the opportunity to take part in a range of unique activities that promote cohesion within teams. The abundance of natural daylight in our event spaces will stimulate fresh thinking, while the scenic landscape of Slieve Gullion provides a mindful focal point that will keep delegates calm, centred and focused.

With modern audio-visual facilities, award-winning cuisine, and a range of accommodation options, we are proud to offer a unique venue and tailor-made experiences for all kinds of conferences, meetings and events.

Whether it’s a small client meeting, a corporate away day or a company conference or board meeting, our dedicated meeting and events team will work with you to ensure its success.

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To find out more or make a booking for your next meeting or event, visit killeavycastle.com or email events@killeavycastle.com

Eye on Cyber Security

Seán McDermott, LoughTec Chief Executive and Adrian Bell, Director Cyber Security Global Sales.

Eye on Cyber Security

LoughTec – Based In Tyrone But Talking Tech To The World

Instead, it’s a relatively small firm based in Omagh that’s been catching the eye of some world-leading organisations for whom cyber security is a matter of business life or death.

LoughTec, founded by Seán McDermott and his business partner Cathal Green, has carved a niche for itself as one of our most successful, home-grown cyber security and managed IT service providers, working with client companies all over Northern Ireland and well beyond.

“I think I can safely say that I’m the only man in the island of Ireland to have conducted a Zoom meeting with the Chilean Secret Service in Spanish,” smiles Seán McDermott. “That’s an extreme example, of course, but we do work with clients worldwide and we do it every week.”

McDermott built his career at one of the Omagh area’s largest employers, Omagh Meats, nowadays part of the Foyle Food Group. “I spent 17 years in areas like stock control and sales until IT became a much bigger thing in the 1990’s, impacting on stock management, traceability and automation.

“I took my exams with the old BIC Systems in Belfast, became Group IT Manager and the rest is history,” he says. But it still took a formidable leap of faith to step away from the safety and comfort of the Foyle Food Group and set up his own IT consultancy.

McDermott pays tribute to the influence of long-time friend and

tech entrepreneur Patrick McAliskey, the founder of Belfast tech giants Novosco and nowadays an investor in a range of business enterprises, not least a Lurgan-based brewery.

“Patrick gave us a lot of advice and a lot of inspiration,” he says. “Cathal became CTO, I became CEO, and we got off the ground back in 2007. There have been a few bumps along the way, but we’re now a 20-strong team, still based in Omagh.”

The fledgling company started life at Omagh Enterprise, which Seán describes as a ‘brilliant organisation’, and set itself up initially as a managed service provider. But, even in those early days, LoughTec developed a niche helping companies to establish secure remote working. It was a prescient move. Thirteen years later, the Covid pandemic swept in and every organisation everywhere needed that kind of advice and help.

Right from the outset of the pandemic, LoughTec found itself working with some very big organisations indeed, including quite a number of household names, providing very specific and exacting security solutions for the new era.

“Sage is an organisation that has

changed how it even thinks about cyber security,” Seán adds. “And they’re not the only ones. The pandemic didn’t just move the goalposts, it changed the whole game.”

Pandemics apart, the cyber security threat to just about any organisation, large or small, is about as intense now as it has ever been.

“Encryption is the biggest problem,” he says. “There are lots of criminal gangs out there monitoring company systems, watching and waiting, then pouncing with systems encryption which can immediately paralyse any company and its operations.

“Local businesses here in Northern Ireland are being hit more often than they ever were, and they’re being hit harder. We’ve had calls over the weekend from companies here that have been hit. It’s become a 24/7 operation as far as we are concerned. In fact, we reckon that 90% of attacks take place after 5 pm on a Friday evening.

“Some companies, even nowadays, think that a piece of anti-virus software will protect them but it won’t. The threats are changing all the time, the

criminals are moving quickly, and real protection has to be a constant process of development and refinement.”

LoughTec now operates three distinct divisions – remote working, managed services and cyber security. “Our firm target is to double the size of our team up to 50 over the next 24 months” says Seán McDermott. “And we want to continue to be thought leaders on cyber security. It’s an ever changing environment and one we have to work very hard to stay on top of.

“There is no Valhalla when it comes to cyber security. But the onus is on every local company to do the very best it can to protect itself and its critical business processes and information. It might not be right, but there’s also a real stigma attached to being the victim of a cyber-attack.

“All of us who work in cyber security know that there a lot of potential points of entry for cyber criminals. But here’s the thing. All that is needed is one small hole, one small route through to the system.

“The best advice, is to take the best advice.”

Name a Northern Ireland company providing cyber security advice to worldwide giants like GlaxoSmithKline and most of us might hazard a guess on some of our biggest IT operations.

SPAR serves up DISHtractingly tasty Balmoral Show for 2023

The range of meal solutions, branded ‘The Kitchen, Cooked Locally’, has been developed in collaboration with some of NI’s best local producers, creating a wide choice for shoppers looking for quick and tasty evening meals.

The Kitchen will take centre stage at SPAR’s exhibition space at The Show, with dozens of products available for sampling. From The Kitchen’s range of mains and sides, show-goers can

sample chicken tikka masala, chicken katsu curry, roast chicken and creamy tomato pasta and both garlic and sweet chilli potato cubes. The team also has dessert covered, with The Kitchen salted caramel and apple pudding and chocolate brownie pudding also on offer.

Complementing The Kitchen range of samples will be SPAR’s enjoy local range of Northern Irish cocktail sausages and salt and chilli sizzle steaks, plus sweet treats including caramel slices and brookies – a brownie and cookie hybrid – served up alongside Greek yoghurt and mango compote.

Bronagh Henderson, Fresh Marketing Manager at Henderson Group says Balmoral Show is the perfect platform for shoppers to try their new products.

Bronagh commented; “We have worked with some of our long-term

suppliers to create The Kitchen, which brings some new and exciting products to the shelves of our stores, delivering on consumer trends. Working with the likes of Daily Bake, K&G McAtamney, Big Pot Co. and Davidson’s Puds has allowed us to be innovative and create products that align with recent food trends, while providing quick, tasty meals for tonight’s tea at value prices.

“£300,000 has been invested into the line, which has choice and value at its core. We know from research that shoppers want to try new foods that are made locally and are easier to cook, which is exactly what The Kitchen represents.”

The Kitchen’s ‘DISH-tractingly’ tasty products will be just one exciting element of SPAR NI’s presence at

Balmoral Show this year. Alongside the sampling station, SPAR’s iconic Big Red Stetsons will also make their return.

The Big Reds will be available for show-goers to pick up in exchange for a donation towards SPAR and EUROSPAR NI’s charity partners, Marie Curie and Cancer Fund for Children.

Last year, funds of over £18,000 were raised in just four days.

This year, SPAR has added a Stetson Selfie Station where visitors can capture themselves with their Big Reds and share for their friends to see across social media.

The on-site SPAR shop will also open its doors once again, providing all the essentials visitors and exhibitors will need pre show and throughout the duration of the event, from fresh sandwiches and Barista Bar coffee to water, snacks and treats.

Bronagh added; “Balmoral Show is not only a chance for us to engage with our shoppers and reveal our new products, but also get some quality time with our suppliers. Balmoral is the biggest agri-business event of the year, and we are looking forward to catching up with our peers and partners, meeting our shoppers and sharing what’s new at SPAR NI this May at

The Show.”

SPAR NI is returning to Balmoral Show this year with some DISHtractingly tasty meals for visitors to sample.

Bronagh Luke, Head of Corporate Marketing at Henderson Group with Vickie White, Royal Ulster Agricultural Society ahead of the Balmoral Show 2023

Phil Alexander, CEO of Cancer Fund for Children, Paddy Doody, Sales and Marketing Director at Henderson Group and Conor O’Kane, Senior Partnership Manager at Marie Curie NI celebrate the £18,000 raised from the Big Reds at last year’s Balmoral Show with SPAR NI.

Eye on AgriFood

Dale Farm Scoops Up NI Ice-cream Market

The development reflects changing consumer demand, driven by the costof-living crisis, and people’s preference to ‘indulge dine’ at home rather than eat out. In direct response to the luxury desert trend, Dale Farm has invested over £100k, to extend its hugely successful premium Rapture range, by introducing a new ice cream tub format.

The launch includes two new Rapture flavours - Honeycomb and Sea Salted Caramel – which are made locally in Kilrea, using milk supplied by the company’s 1,300 Dale Farmers. Both flavours were recently recognised at the 2023 Ice Cream Alliance awards with a diploma and special diploma of merit.

With demand for fun, novelty and impulse-buy products in the ice cream market also on the rise, Dale Farm has developed a new range of ice lollies – Fruit Hoops – which are made without artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. This consolidates the brand’s dominant market positioning, where together with partner brands, it holds 65% share of the Northern Ireland Impulse ice cream market.

Claire Hale, Dale Farm, said:

“We are excited to bring these new products to the market and further enhance our ice cream portfolio. Backed by the strength of our 1,300 Dale Farmers who own the business and supply us quality milk, we’re dedicated to building a product portfolio which delivers the variety and value for money that consumers expect.”

“This Spring will see us launch impactful, targeted, fully integrated marketing campaigns to support our new product launches, building upon the success of our ‘Favourites’ campaign, which was recognised as ‘Best Marketing Campaign’ at the 2023 Women in Business Awards.”

Fruit Hoops and Rapture ice cream tubs are now available in participating retailers across Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland’s Number one ice cream brand, Dale Farm continues to build on its dominance of the local ice cream market through the expansion of its ‘luxury’ product range.

Dale Farm has invested over £100k, to extend its hugely successful premium Rapture range, by introducing a new ice cream tub format

Dale Farm has developed a new range of ice lollies – Fruit Hoops – which are made without artificial colours, flavours or preservatives

Eye on AgriFood

EU Funding Worth £55 Million In Dairy Sales

The Dairy Council for Northern Ireland has announced the completion of a round of EU and DCNI funded programmes that have driven £55.6 million* in new sales of dairy products to markets in South-east Asia and the Middle East.

Implemented in two tranches over the last six years the programmes received investment in marketing support to the value of £2.6 million, driving sales in Saudi Arabia, UAE, China, Taiwan, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Japan.

Dr Mike Johnston, chief executive of the Dairy Council, which was the only organisation in the UK agri-food sector to secure EU funding for export support, said while the programme is concluding, its legacy will provide for future opportunities for the industry.

“We had confidence in these export programmes from the

outset, as structured with both outward and inward missions, they ensured potential customers got to see first-hand the professionalism and efficiency of Northern Ireland’s dairy industry and the high EU standards to which the dairy sector here operates as they walked the entire NI dairy supply chain,” he said. “However, even our own projections were exceeded with the programme demonstrating a return of investment of 21.3:1; bringing remarkable value and establishing long-term relationships upon which trading channels between Northern Ireland and international markets can continue to thrive.”

The support and assistance offered by agencies and organisations across the sector, says Dr Johnston, made success possible even in the face of restrictions visited upon the programmes by Covid in the final years.

“While the programmes did not stop entirely during the Covid era, restrictions did mean a delay with the postponement of both outward and inward missions. Throughout we have received invaluable support and assistance from our colleagues at DAERA, FSA, CAFRE and the Institute for Global Food Security at QUB. We are grateful

£37 Million Causeway Distillery Opens

to them and to everyone along the supply chain who helped us in highlighting its integrity and robustness, giving new overseas customers the confidence and trust to source their dairy products from Northern Ireland, thereby supporting our core aim of generating sales and, ultimately, contributing to the wider economy,” he concluded.

This comes as part of Proximo’s £60 million investment in its Irish single malt distilling and aging facility over the past 5 years, The distillery takes its name from the Giant’s Causeway. This legendary landmark is just a stone’s throw away from the Old Bushmills Distillery, and has inspired Bushmills’ whiskey-makers for centuries.

Unveiled as part of a two-day event, the Causeway Distillery was lit up in a visually arresting copper hue, playing homage to a core feature of the new venture - the Stillhouse - which can be seen through the large windows.

The ten copper pot stills have been designed specifically to match those at the Old Bushmills Distillery, enabling the famed Irish Whiskey brand to achieve the exact same quality and flavour of single malt whiskeys in both distilleries. As such, they hold great significance for the product and the future legacy of Bushmills and US-based owners Proximo.

Bushmills Irish Whiskey from the world’s oldest licenced distillery, and its owner, global spirits giant Proximo, has marked 415 years of whiskey heritage with the opening of the new £37 million state-of-the-art Causeway Distillery in Bushmills.

Campaign magazine places Ardmore in prestigious Top 30 agency list

Campaign magazine has placed Ardmore in its top creative agencies for 2022 in its latest list of the best UK marketing and advertising businesses.

The magazine – a bible for the global ad industry – also confirmed that multi-awardwinning Ardmore was the only agency in the Northern Ireland region to appear for a second year running.

Campaign magazine compiles the prestigious list of creative businesses according to exclusive Nielson billings figures, to shine a global spotlight on the Top 30 UK Regional Agencies. Since the agency first appeared in the coveted list in 2019, Ardmore has risen seven places to sit proudly at position 21 for 2022.

Ardmore is a recognised global industry leader in behaviour change, recruitment marketing, tourism

and transport, food, retail and fastmoving consumer goods (FMCG), representing a range of premier clients including Belfast City Council, Brand USA, Dale Farm, Destination British Columbia, eir evo, Lidl, Lowden Guitars, Lunn’s Jewellers, MCS Group, National Trust, Network Rail, Phoenix Natural Gas, Progressive Building Society, Rushmere, Starplan Furniture, Stena Line, The Executive Office and Translink.

The Ardmore Group - comprised of advertising agency Ardmore, public relations agency LK Communications, and eCommerce specialists Built for Growth (BFG) Digital - offers local, national and international brands

a truly integrated communications service spanning strategy, design, film, digital, media, PR, reputation management and eCommerce marketing, all coordinated and delivered under one roof by more than 80 marketing and communications experts.

Ardmore Chief Executive Officer, John Keane, said:

“To have consecutively appeared in Campaign’s list of Top 30 UK Regional Agencies is an incredible achievement for our team and demonstrates our commitment to growth across the Ardmore group. We have incredible talent here in Northern Ireland to rival any

global agency and are pleased to be standing shoulder to shoulder with the very finest in the marketing and communications industry across the UK.

“The talent and expertise of our team, coupled with the insight we have from our international networks and partnerships, is what makes us so unique. It’s also what allows us to provide a world class service for our diverse range of clients in Northern Ireland and across Europe.”

Ardmore’s listing in Campaign Magazine’s Top 30 UK Regional Agencies is the latest in a number of accolades from the Ardmore Group. In 2022, BFG Digital won UK eCommerce Agency of the Year and earlier this month was awarded eCommerce Project of the Year at the prestigious Digital DNA Awards, whilst LK Communications was recently named PR Consultancy of the Year at the Pride Awards from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR). Ardmore has also just been shortlisted for Media Agency of the Year and Best Long Term Media Strategy, in The Media Awards.

In 2022 Ardmore announced its plans to work towards net zero status, after cementing a new partnership with Planet Mark, a globally-recognised certification for progress and excellence in sustainability. The agency has been a member of the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising for over 20 years and is also a longstanding partner and shareholder in Worldwide Partners Inc (WPI), a global network of 83 independent agencies in 44 countries, who collaborate and work together as one to harness their creativity, local expertise and diversified capabilities to deliver meaningful campaigns for a range of international brands.

Whiskey returns to Belfast

Drinks company Titanic Distillers has invested almost £8 million to convert the historic Titanic Pumphouse, in the heart of Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, into a new distillery and visitor centre that will give guests a chance to explore the site where Titanic last rested on dry ground, before her maiden voyage.

A listed building, the Pumphouse, and neighbouring Thompson Dry Dock, first opened in 1911 to service and accommodate the massive White Star transatlantic liners Olympicand Titanic.

Now, 112 years later, visitors will experience the workings of the new distillery and hear the story of Belfast’s whiskey tradition, why it disappeared and how it has now returned at the Pumphouse, the new home of Titanic Distillers. Guests will also have a chance to view the distillery’s three new Forsyth’s stills which are situated on a

mezzanine floor overlooking the original Gwynne pumping engines which are deep in the building’s pump-well.

All of the original pump equipment and associated internal historic features of the building have been retained and are available to view as part of the associated visitor tours, while the exterior includes a new food and beverage area.

With prices starting at just £10, four tours are available to book at www.titanicdistillers.com.

For £10, visitors can enjoy the Dock Tour, a one-hour guided experience of the exterior dry dock, including a 66-step descent into the historic location where Titanic last rested on dry land.

The Signature Tour, which costs £25, is a 60-minute fully guided tour of the distillery, located within the historic Pumphouse, a walkthrough the distillation process

followed by a ‘sensory experience’ and tasting of Titanic Distillers award-winning Irish spirits.

Premium (£40) and Legacy (£100) Tours are also available – both of which include tours of the distillery, Pumphouse and Thompson Dock, lasting two hours and 150 minutes respectively.

Titanic Distillers Director Peter Lavery is excited to finally open the doors of the distillery and Pumphouse to visitors.

“It’s been quite a journey to get this far but we’re finally here and we can’t wait to open our doors to the public on April 28,” said Peter. ”Whiskey has played an important part in the history of our city but there hasn’t been a working distillery here since the 1930s, so we are delighted to revive this great distilling tradition - bringing Belfast back to the forefront of Irish Whiskey production, while at the same time telling the story of a historic past when we led the way globally - not just in

shipbuilding but across many areas of industry, manufacturing and innovation.”

Stephen Symington, Director of Titanic Distillers, added: “We have embraced the history of our distillery’s location to create a unique product and visitor experience, immersed in the spirit of Belfast’s industrial and maritime past and inspired by the people who worked in Belfast’s shipyard more than a century ago.”

“It is important though to recognise that, outside of the site’s massive tourism appeal and historic significance, this is also a working distillery in which we will be able to produce our own products to build on our success to date and really make the most of the growing global demand for Irish Whiskey.”

The Titanic Pumphouse is within walking distance of Titanic Belfast, the world’s biggest Titanic exhibition centre and Northern Ireland’s number one tourist attraction, clocking up more than 800,000 visitors per annum in the days before Covid-19.

Also resident in the Titanic Quarter is the SS Nomadic tender ship which ferried passengers to the great liner, and HMS Caroline, a decommissioned C-class light cruiser of the Royal Navy that saw combat service in the First World War and served as an administrative centre in the Second World War.

On completion, the project is expected to create 41 jobs across a number of areas including operations, distilling, hospitality and sales.

For more information or to book a tour, visit www.titanicdistillers.com. For larger group bookings, email groups@ titanicdistillers.com

BELFAST’S newest tourist attraction, and the city’s first working whiskey distillery in almost 90 years, is to open its doors to the public at the end of April 2023.

Eye on Law

Succession in family businesses – A threat or an opportunity?

By Richard Gardiner, managing partner, RSM Belfast

to prevent loss of value, whether through tax leakage, commercial issues, a change of management style or social/economic factors which were not adequately considered. Effective and early planning is the most important consideration, as most issues can be overcome, given enough time to plan.

and an emerging mindset locally.

Traditionally, local businesses have tended to think of wealth as stemming from the family trading business, and everything flows from there.

Often an entrepreneur is behind the business originally, and it may be the second or even third generation that is faced with a situation where they either can’t or don’t want to continue to trade on existing terms. Whatever the scenario…and no two examples are ever the same…the biggest issue is often the absence of strategic succession planning.

The owners need to start several years in advance, and it’s never too early to start getting “the house” spring cleaned for a potential disposal. Tidying up loose ends, streamlining the balance sheet, checking statutory requirements, and ensuring proper governance is evidenced can be time consuming, but it’s all vital when selling, as it eliminates last minute stress and maximises value.

Transferring shares is also a challenge, whether to the next generation or to external third parties. A common factor is the desire

A family may want to retain ownership of the business but not be actively involved in management going forward. A new management team rightly wants to be rewarded for their efforts, and this creates a tax challenge, with potential loss of value, but also an opportunity to move forward in a new way. A phantom share scheme can be a suitable solution, providing the new team with an effective annual dividend (along with the family members) and also potentially a capital sum on future retirement. This motivates new executives to join, ensuring the business continues through the generations, while retaining equity within the family with no tax leakage. Preserving value and allowing each generation to manage the asset for the longer-term benefits all the family.

In the US, the concept of the “Family Office” is a popular one

The family office concept may be real (with an actual restructuring of the family company or group) or virtual, involving no physical changes in the business structure, but simply a change in how the family or owners consider and manage their wealth. The main trading business always plays a significant part, but the family, with its often diverse needs and objectives, sits apart from the formal entity or entities.

Thinking outside the box in terms of family needs, wealth generation, value protection and diversification of assets can lead to a completely fresh approach to the traditional view, which historically provided for everyone until the day came when it could do so no more…often through natural circumstances and not necessarily because of a lack of management or desire on the part of the owners.

You can never plan for every eventuality as a business owner, however there is no substitute for strategic succession planning. Those who look ahead in good time will avoid the pitfalls and preserve their assets for future generations. It’s an opportunity to be actively grasped, not a threat to be ignored.

To discuss your succession planning requirements, email Richard.gardiner@rsmuk.com

Rarely is succession straightforward in a family business. Whether planning to hand the reigns on to the next generation, or disposing of a business, the process is not without its challenges.

onSustainability Eye

Powering the transition to a smarter, greener energy future

Paul Carson, Managing Director of the Strategic Power Group - the home to Strategic Power Projects and Strategic Power Connect - explains how the company is delivering home-grown clean energy solutions for large commercial and industrial energy users in Northern Ireland.

Eye on Sustainability

The last 12 months have been characterised by an unprecedented level of uncertainty and upheaval for businesses of all sizes. We have seen spiralling energy prices, a weakened security of supply and increasingly frequent reminders that without a rapid and radical reconfiguration of our current energy system, namely through a sustained move away from an overdependence on fossil fuels, our transition to net zero by 2050 is seriously at risk.

For too long the narrative has been one which pitted reliability, affordability, and sustainability against each other, with businesses told that pursuing any one of these goals had to come at the inevitable expense of the others. Strategic Power Connect is determined not just to change this story, but to tell an entirely different one.

With renewable energy now significantly less expensive than burning fossil fuels, businesses who push to decarbonise their production and supply chains, are, in fact, now also ensuring that they have access to a cheaper and more dependable energy source.

Seasoned renewable energy developer, Strategic Power Projects has long been a key player in the green economy with decades of experience across the Island of Ireland.

Working to drive decarbonisation and diversify the energy mix with increased levels of renewables, Strategic Power’s goal has always been simple, even if the challenges it faced were more complex: produce power from wind and solar energy and store it for when it was needed.

Then, in June 2022, seeing the increasingly challenging conditions in which its customers were operating, the company made the strategic decision to use its expertise and market knowledge to launch an extension of its energy portfolio by offering sustainable power to local large energy users in the commercial and industrial sectors.

“With governments strengthening sustainability policies and setting increasingly ambitious renewable energy targets, it is imperative that we all, businesses developers and government alike, take decisive action,” Paul Carson, Managing Director of the Strategic Power Group, said. “We need to phase out expensive imported fossil fuels and instead make

the most of our world-leading levels of renewable energy production.

“We are at a critical juncture when it comes to cutting our carbon emissions and delivering our net zero goals. It is simply impossible to continue with a business-as-usual approach and it is exciting to see how entrepreneurs and companies in Northern Ireland understand that. We set up Strategic Power Connect as a direct response to the significant and vocal demand from large energy users, who made it unequivocally clear that they wanted a solution to tackle their rising energy costs and assist their commitment to decarbonisation.

make difficult decisions – they can go green and, in fact, save money.”

Another feature of today’s energy landscape is the growing requirement for companies to place Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations at the forefront of their business planning. Businesses need to evidence real progress, particularly when it comes to environmental factors as this can play a determining role in their ability to attract green capital.

Liam Faulkner, who has just joined Strategic Power Connect as CEO, said there is another vital part of Strategic Power Connect’s offering:

“We recognise that with so many unknowns at present, what businesses need most is certainty. At Strategic Power Connect we design, install and manage on-site renewable energy systems to enable major companies to become more resilient and self-sufficient and enable their transition to net zero and secure long term energy price certainty.”

Strategic Power Connect offers direct renewable energy to its customers, supplying and installing solar equipment on site with the option for no capital outlay. As Paul explains, the goal has been to deliver a nimble and affordable solution:

“We recognise that with our concurrent energy and cost of living crises, that the bottom line is always going to be front and centre of any business’s decision-making process.

“However, partnering with us simply couldn’t be easier, and crucially, it makes business sense. With the option of no upfront cost, our customers only pay for the energy they use. Solar is a quick and easy technology to deploy, and it can be operational in 6 – 8 months. We really feel like businesses are no longer pressed to

“We want to help businesses and manufacturers be confident that they can stand behind their green commitment activities, sure in the knowledge that they are meeting ESG standards and enabling them to access funding and investment,” Liam said. “With a range of forthcoming ESG-related reporting and disclosure requirements, it’s very clear that sustainability is no longer a buzz word, but rather an integral part of how any modern business operates, and these practices need to be embedded in the fabric of the business.

“This is something we can advise on and help to implement.”

Ultimately, Liam is hopeful for the future and the key role that Strategic Power Connect will play as it partners with companies to drive down their carbon emissions and make the needed change to a more sustainable and responsible way of doing business.

“Sourcing a secure and sustainable energy supply has never been more important for business and industry. A smarter, greener and crucially, less expensive energy future is the story we at Strategic Power Connect want to tell and one we are ready to deliver.”

“With governments strengthening sustainability policies and setting increasingly ambitious renewable energy targets, it is imperative that we all, businesses developers and government alike, take decisive action. We need to phase out expensive imported fossil fuels and instead make the most of our world-leading levels of renewable energy production.”

Eye on Sustainability

Platinum recognition for Moy Park’s biodiversity initiatives

Moy Park’s efforts to protect nature and biodiversity have been recognised with ‘Platinum’ level accreditation in an independent Business & Biodiversity Charter, delivered by Business in the Community Northern Ireland (BITCNI) in partnership with Ulster Wildlife.

The Charter recognises organisations that are committed to enhancing and protecting biodiversity and have taken action to address their impact on all living things, from ecosystems to individual organisms. The top rank was conferred on Moy Park in recognition of its focus on protecting and enhancing the

environment through a range of nature-focused initiatives including schools outreach and community engagement, along with strategic partnerships and investments to enhance biodiversity at its sites across Northern Ireland.

Recent projects delivered by Moy Park include planting 350 trees on the grounds of its facility in Ballymena and introducing native hedging plants at a local Dungannon school as part of a pilot ‘Hedges for Habitat’ project with Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful.

Declan Cunningham, Head of Sustainability & Risk at Moy Park says that respecting the environment is a fundamental business priority for the company.

“Over the last year we have established biodiversity teams at our sites who collaborate closely with local groups, schools and environmental organisations to help maintain a more diverse ecosystem,” explains Declan.

“Biodiversity is a key pillar of our plan to invest in nature-based solutions to help offset carbon emissions and ensure we continue to produce food sustainably and reduce our environmental impact. Over the next year we will build on our existing partnerships to create even more wildlife corridors, establish, and protect habitats and teach young people about ecosystems and the environment.”

Congratulating the

company, Ulster Wildlife Chief Executive Jennifer Fulton said; “Congratulations to Moy Park on achieving the Platinum Award in the BITC Business and Biodiversity Charter. It is encouraging to see a large agrifood business proactively building its environmental credentials. The company continuously strives to minimise biodiversity impacts including responsible sourcing of sustainable products and identifying opportunities to deliver biodiversity gains.”

Kieran Harding, Managing Director of BITC NI is pictured presenting Declan Cunningham, Head of Sustainability & Risk at Moy Park with Platinum level accreditation in the Business & Biodiversity Charter.

Eye on Sustainability

Sustainability is at the Core of Collins Aerospace

spearheading the sustainability strategy within Collins Aerospace.

Andrew said, “The strategy has seen us introduce Environmental Best Management Practices (BMPs) across the site. As well as looking towards building a more sustainable future, we’re looking at how we can build sustainability into our everyday operations.

“We are continuously working to reduce our environmental impact on the ground through better efficiency and resource management in our operations. All electricity used on site is procured from 100% renewable sources, and this initiative alone will ensure a reduction in our carbon footprint by over 1500 tonnes of CO2 per annum. We are committed to eliminating waste, championing reuse and recycling across our value chain to accelerate a more circular system.”

Companies are becoming acutely aware of their responsibilities to move to a more sustainable way of working, whilst still fulfilling the needs of their current customers and without compromising the needs of future generations.

One such company that is showcasing exemplary standards in sustainability practices is Collins Aerospace in Kilkeel, which has placed sustainability at its core and is committed to achieving positive changes.

With over 300 sites across the world, Collins Aerospace, a business of Raytheon Technologies (NYSE: RTX), is a global aircraft seating manufacturer and at its facility in Kilkeel, in the heart of the Mournes, it manufactures seating for the world’s most reputable commercial and business airlines including British Airways, Qatar, Delta Airlines and Lufthansa.

As the world faces the realities of climate change and the aerospace industry looks for a

sustainable path forward, Collins Aerospace is bringing an elevated perspective to help lead the way.

With almost 900 employees across two sites in Kilkeel, the company, over the last 50 years through its evolution from Aircraft Furnishings to Collins Aerospace, has contributed heavily to the economic prosperity of the local area. With its widespread community outreach and large number of employees, it is in a unique position to make meaningful, positive changes to reduce not only its impact on climate change, but the impact of the wider community.

Collins Aerospace has also played its part in contributing to the broader Northern Ireland economy and has worked hard to implement a business sustainability strategy to help improve its environmental performance. The strategy focuses on encompassing carbon reduction, circular resources, and nature and biodiversity protection.

The company in Kilkeel has created

a dedicated ‘Transformation Team’ consisting of employees from all areas of the facility who are focussed on transforming processes, tools and people to drive continuous improvements in productivity, employee experiences, skills and customer satisfaction. Through its work and focus on sustainability practices, it has achieved a $1M saving by reducing the footprint of material and enabling more footprint for value added production.

The team also created a complete circular economy by using plastic waste from thermoformed plastic sheets, which is often discarded, as feedstock for 3D printers of non-critical manufacturing jigs and fixtures. The impact of this new process has proven a 72% Co2e saving through the utilisation of the new printing method. This is part of Collins’ commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Andrew Chambers, Senior Manager, Environment Health and Safety is

Collins Aerospace in Kilkeel was recognised for its sustainability practices at the recent Business Eye Sustainability Awards, receiving ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Sustainable Manufacturing Business of the Year’ category. Andrew concluded, “Seeing the progress and tangible results that we’ve achieved to date and the recognition at the recent Business Eye Sustainability Awards, encourages us to continue and improve on our sustainability journey.”

Through its Collins Kilkeel Connect (CKC) Committee, which focuses on community, people and place, employees are encouraged to get involved in organised company events to promote sustainability and improve staff health and wellbeing. Activities include local beach cleans, road litter picks and volunteering days.

As a leader in developing advanced solutions for the aerospace industry, Collins Aerospace in Kilkeel is certainly setting the standard for manufacturing companies across Northern Ireland with regards to the implementation of a successful sustainability strategy and establishing new ways of working.

When we think of sustainability, three words spring to mind: economy, society and environment.

Collins Aerospace in Kilkeel was recognised for its sustainability practices at this year’s Business Eye Sustainability Awards, receiving Highly Commended in the Sustainable Manufacturing Business of the Year category. Pictured (L-R) are Andrew Chambers, Collins Aerospace, Niall Devlin, Bank of Ireland, and Naomi Rooney, Collins Aerospace.

Eye on Sustainability

Northern Ireland can lead the world on sustainable food manufacturing

By Michael Bell OBE, Executive Director, Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA)

Making food and drink firms part of the solution

The government recently announced a revised strategy for meeting the UK’s net-zero emissions targets, setting out new policies on energy, carbon capture, electric vehicles and more to enable the UK to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

Addressing the climate crisis is the single biggest challenge we face across all industries, and across society, in the coming decades. Achieving net-zero and decarbonising our economy is something that we all need to play our part in.

As Northern Ireland’s largest single manufacturing industry, feeding some 10 million people, food and drink needs to be part of the solution on delivering UK net zero. NIFDA members, and those across the ‘eating ecosystem’ of sectors linked to food and drink – including farming, processing, transport, cold storage, retail – are taking action to reduce emissions, create more sustainable products, and be part of the solution on climate change.

Delivering through innovation

For our customers and consumers, sustainability is no longer something that is nice to have – it is a must have. Equally, the

need for industry to continue to improve its environmental footprint will form a key pillar of future government food policy. Always ahead of the curve, NI food and drink companies are adapting to these consumer trends and the evolving regulatory environment and finding the opportunities for green growth while reducing emissions.

Indeed, at our most recent Northern Ireland Food and Drink Awards we celebrated those firms that are finding innovative ways to make their processes, products and packaging more sustainable. The new Environmental Sustainability category saw a record number of entries from processors who have initiated projects to enhance their

environmental footprint. NI food and drink companies continue to develop more sustainable products and make their processes more energy efficient – with a range of initiatives from improving the recyclability of packing, to introducing greener farming practices to using clean and renewable energy to power production.

Plastic waste is another issue the industry is taking seriously. As a society we need to rethink our use of plastics, and at a government level there needs to be investment in better recycling infrastructure, and a reform of the system to drive up recycling rates. Through our NIFDA packaging forum,

major companies across the

Eye on Sustainability

food and drink sector in Northern Ireland are exploring ways in which government and industry can work together to deliver practical solutions on plastics and packaging.

Great work is being done across the eating ecosystem to improve climate outcomes. On farm, encouraging efforts have been made to improve biodiversity, make farms more energy efficient and move towards renewable power.

Extensive research is also being carried out measuring levels of carbon sequestration and looking at how farms can further lower their carbon footprint. On the transport side, firms are decarbonising their fleets with some introducing vehicles powered by natural gas which will have a significant positive impact on emissions.

Need for collaboration and support

Northern Ireland food and drink has the track record when it comes to innovation, quality and commercial success, so we have the tools to make Northern Ireland the world leader in sustainable food production. We are rising to the challenge, but we cannot do it by ourselves. Political stability is key, and we need a functioning Executive back at Stormont with ministers to work with us and fight our industry’s corner.

Firstly, maintaining our innovative cutting edge, driving the green growth agenda, and exploring the possibilities of advanced manufacturing requires investment. Unfortunately the industry here is

at a disadvantage compared to our regional competitors. We are the only region on these islands without a processor capital grant. We need to level the playing field. A capital support scheme would further drive innovation, boost productivity and win value adding new business. Now is the time to address this competitive disadvantage.

Secondly, we need ministers in place to support further industrygovernment collaboration on sustainability. The recommendations of the joint DAERA/Department for the Economy Independent Strategic Review of the Northern Ireland Agri-Food Sector published last year included the establishment of a new Sustainability Body for the industry. With full collaboration across the supply chain, such a body

would allow us to quantify the net impact on and contribution to the environment from Northern Ireland agri-food – highlighting areas for improvement based on scientific evidence and showcasing our sustainable credentials from farm to fork. The new body could facilitate new levels of partnership between farmers, manufacturers, and government. Without a functioning Executive, its impact may be limited. There is still a long way to go, of course. But we are making good progress on sustainability through innovation, investment and collaboration. With stable politics and the right support, we have the potential to lead the world on sustainability and boost the local economy in the process. Let’s get back to work.

The 2022 Northern Ireland Food and Drink Awards took place on Friday 11 March at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast.

Michael Bell pictured at NIFDA annual dinner.

Innovate, Collaborate And act with Urgency

Whether it is the need to address Climate Change, or the war in Ukraine, issues tend to bleed into each other creating a compound effect with no simple, siloed, answer. They need to be addressed as a whole, not one by one.

And that is certainly true for sustainability and how it impacts an organisation like NI Water.

Like all public bodies here, NI Water is mandated to help achieve Net Zero by 2050. That is no longer just an aspiration. It is the law.

But the need to respond to Climate Change isn’t just a legal requirement. It is also a physical reality. More intense rainfall, alternating with drier summers, creates new pressures for a water utility.

In part that is about making our operations and assets more resilient. However, it is also about responding to growing public concern about the need to

protect our rivers and beaches.

The Victorian sewage system we inherited was traditionally designed to use heavily diluted discharges as a relief valve at times of heavy rainfall. That is increasingly unacceptable.

But the drive for sustainability is also a financial imperative. Partly because of the war in Ukraine, NI Water’s electricity bill has more than doubled in the last few years, so our dependence on fossil fuels now carries a very real operational cost as well as an impact on the environment.

A sustainable strategy, therefore, must address all of those pressures - and do so in a coherent way.

Our Climate Change Strategy has set a target of Net Zero for our use of energy by 2030, and for all emissions by 2040. That means looking at each aspect of both our operation and that of our supply chain to identify how, year on year, we reduce our carbon emissions.

Central to that is how we source and use energy. NI Water is the largest user of electricity in Northern Ireland so flexing our operations and developing new sources of renewable energy is key both to decarbonisation and the creation of a renewable energy system.

But it is also key to addressing the underlying driver of cost - the volatility in the global energy market. We need to end our dependence on imported fossil fuels. Hence NI Water’s plans to use wind and solar power, hydro, and electrolysis to meet its energy needs as outlined in our Power of Water report.

And we need to address another structural issue: the historic failure to invest in our wastewater treatment works which is now constraining economic and social development across Northern Ireland because the network couldn’t cope with

the environmental impact.

The consequences of that failure to invest has now been recognised and is reflected in the additional investment allocated in NI Water’s current regulatory settlement. But the hard reality is that inflation - as in other infrastructure projects - is impacting the work and the backlog will take many more years, and regulatory settlements, to clear.

So we need to develop a more sophisticated and truly sustainable approach - one that balances not just social, economic and environmental imperatives, but also local needs with regional equity.

Achieving that will require both technical and organisational innovation by NI Water; collaboration with central and local government, regulators, and the private sector; and, above all, an active sense of collective urgency.

That is the real sustainability challenge for the future.

If there is one thing the last few years has taught us it is that there are few problems which come neatly compartmentalised.

NI Water solar panels at Moneymore, working to reduce electricity for abstraction and treatment of water.

SAVE WATER SAVE ENERGY SAVE MONEY

Small changes. Big difference.

By using less hot and cold water, your business can save money and help to protect the environment for future generations. Here are four simple steps to help your organisation become more water efficient…

1. Calculate your water consumption Review previous water bills and work out your average daily water-use. If there’s an increasing trend that can’t be explained – it could be a leak!

2. Look for leaks. Fix them, quick! Most leaks are easily fixed. But often they go undetected or ignored. If your business has a dripping tap or leaky loo, you could literally be pouring your profits down the drain.

3. Set targets for improvements

Whether installing water-saving devices, or implementing simple behavioural change, it’s important to set companywide targets. And stick to them.

4. Get staff on board

Water-saving requires team effort. Explaining the importance and practices of water efficiency is key for staff buy-in. Why not appoint a member of staff to monitor your water-use?

For more water-saving tips, visit www.niwater.com/how-to-save-water/ or scan the QR code

Eye on Sustainability

A&L Goodbody & RenewableNI Team Up For Earth Day

Corporate law firm

A&L Goodbody (ALG) has teamed up with RenewableNI to mark Earth Day 2023.

Earth Day is widely recognised as the largest secular observance in the world, marked by more than a billion people every year, as a day of action to change human behaviour and create global, national and local policy changes.

The theme for this year’s Earth Day is sustainable fashion – referring to a clothing supply chain that is ecologically and socially responsible. It aims to reorient the industry and consumers away from the fast fashion model and toward sustainable practices in sourcing, production, distribution, marketing, and consumption.

ALG and RenewableNI – an official Earth Day partner – marked the occasion this week at a seminar held

in ALG’s Belfast city centre offices by asking attendees to bring an item or items of clothing to swap or donate.

ALG Partner Mark Stockdale commented: “Tackling climate change is one of the key societal issues we believe our firm has the greatest ability to influence. We are doing this by reducing ALG’s environmental impact through how we run our business and the services we deliver.

“As part of this strategy, we were proud to partner with RenewableNI to support the ambitions of Earth Day 2023 to build a healthy economy, build an equitable future and build our ‘only home’.

“We were grateful to guests attending our offices from across the energy and renewables sector in Northern Ireland, and members of our 120-strong team at ALG in Belfast, who participated in our clothes swap initiative – helping to shine a light on the wide-ranging environmental benefits of swapping or donating clothes as an alternative to throwing them away.”

RenewableNI Director Steven Agnew commented: “Impacts of the climate

emergency and biodiversity crises are already beginning to be felt in Northern Ireland, so it is vital that we work together to mitigate the worst impacts.

“Today’s seminar at ALG focused on the need to meet the Climate Bill target of 80 per cent renewable electricity by 2030 and the actions the industry is taking. But we also promoted the smaller steps that individuals can make.

As an official partner of Earth Day 2023, we used our in-person event to give away wildflower seeds and to raise awareness of fast fashion.

“While switching to renewable electricity can help apparel companies reduce their carbon emissions, limiting the textiles going to landfill in Northern Ireland saves waste and energy required to make new clothing.”

SME Net Zero knowledge gap must be closed before it’s too late

Almost two-thirds (63%) of SMEs do not have a sustainability plan in place despite green goals rising further up the business agenda, finds new research launched to mark Earth Day 2023.

Small business owners have a Net Zero knowledge gap which must be closed if the UK is to meet its 2050 Net Zero pledges. More than half of SMEs (59%) are unclear on what is required to reach Net Zero despite 99% of the UK business community being made up of small businesses.

One in six (14%) of SME-owners say a lack of knowledge is preventing them from progressing the sustainability of their business. The Road to Net Zero research was commissioned by, myCSO,

a SaaS platform created as an accessible solution for SMEs to monitor and manage their sustainability progress.

Earth Day is a global awareness event which has been celebrated since 1970, and sees billions of individuals worldwide come together each year on April 22 to take action towards a greener, more sustainable and equitable future for the planet.

Despite more than 50 years of awareness raising, many small businesses still trail behind in adopting greener practices.

Half of SMEs (50%) said a lack of funds was stopping them from becoming a more sustainable business, and one-inthree (33%) felt a lack of time means their Net Zero plans are not advancing.

Ravi Chidambaram, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Rimm Sustainability, said: “Without significant change the UK and the rest of the world will not meet Net Zero targets. We cannot afford for this to happen, and we have a collective responsibility to change our fortunes while there is still time. We must find ways to stop time and money being limiting factors to reaching our green goals. To make starting and understanding sustainability, ESG and the road to Net Zero easier we have created a single platform which small businesses can use in the place of a Chief Sustainability Officer.”

The lack of requirement by customers or suppliers, who do not ask or care about sustainability credentials meant

43% of SMEs hadn’t sought out more sustainable practices. Almost a quarter of SMEs say they have no plans to become greener as it isn’t a legal requirement, highlighting more could be done by the government to encourage sustainability.

Ravi continued: “A united approach to improving practices means business that do not adopt greener processes are left behind. The longer some customers, suppliers, and partners do not require those that they do business with to take responsibility for the environment, the longer achieving our collective Net Zero mission will take. To help the UK reach its 2030 and 2050 targets the government may have to step in with tougher regulation and guidance.”

Pictured (L-R) are Niamh Collins, Associate, ALG; Mark Stockdale, Partner, ALG; and Steven Agnew, Director, Renewable NI.

Eye on Motor Trade

UK Awards Double For Agnew Volkswagen

Northern Ireland’s leading Volkswagen dealership has landed two top industry awards.

Agnew Volkswagen, with showrooms on Belfast’s Boucher Road and at Mallusk, has been named as the top Volkswagen Retailer Group in the UK for 2022. It took the coveted Volkswagen UK title ahead of retailer groups across the whole of the UK network. To complete a remarkable double, Agnew Volkswagen has also been named No.1 Fleet Business Partner in the UK for 2022. It’s the fifth time in the past seven years that the team has lifted the fleet award for unrivalled consistency!

These nationwide award wins are testament to the passion, commitment and service of the entire team, as they are judged against an extensive list of performance criteria, so to come out on top is a brilliant

achievement. The dedicated local Fleet team prides itself on providing exemplary service and advice to a wide range of local businesses

and business car drivers, so being recognised again by peers is incredible. The state of the art facilities in Belfast and Mallusk showcase an evolving and exciting Volkswagen product line-up, including the expanding ID electric range with the unique ID.Buzz, winner of the What Car? 2023 Car of the Year Award. Aside from electric vehicles, there

are plenty of alternatives in the Volkswagen range, including the evergreen Golf and Polo as well as the Tiguan and wider SUV line-up.

To discuss your business or personal vehicle needs contact Agnew Volkswagen Belfast on 028 9023 4477 or Mallusk on 028 9034 2111 or search ‘Agnew Volkswagen’.

Sam Mallon, Head of Business, Agnew Volkswagen Mallusk; Brian Robinson, Franchise Director, and Gerry Mulholland, Head of Business, Agnew Volkswagen Belfast.

Julie Graham Fleet Sales Executive, John O’Reilly Fleet Sales Manager, Stanley McKittrick Fleet Co-ordinator and Steven Lavery Business Development manager.

Eye on Retail

Paddy Murney Musgrave Retail Director Charts Growth Plans

He spent 20 years with Coca-Cola, the last five of them as Commercial Director for Ireland, before making the move to global giants Unilever for a short-lived stay heavily impacted by the Covid pandemic.

“I took the job not long before the pandemic and ended up sitting in front of a computer screen at home for a couple of years,” he says. “I really missed being out in the field and in

Paddy Murney has been steeped in the grocery and drinks sector for his entire career, but the relatively new Retail Sales Director at Musgrave Northern Ireland is clearly energised by his current role and by Musgrave Group’s potential growth in the local marketplace.

the stores, so when the opportunity came up to join Trevor Magill (Musgrave NI’s Managing Director) and the team here, I jumped at it.” He was also attracted, he says, by Musgrave’s perceived ‘challenger’ status in the convenience retail sector here in Northern Ireland. “It’s a good position to do business from. We are continually growing our estate and have ambitious growth plans for the next few years and beyond.”

Musgrave, of course, trades through three distinct retail brand names – SuperValu, Centra and Mace. And it’s a sizeable operation – 103 Centra stores, 37 larger SuperValu outlets and 81 Mace businesses.

Trevor Magill, and his immediate predecessor Michael McCormack who is now the Managing Director for the wholesale division within Musgrave Group, have both picked up the growth pace at Musgrave’s

Northern Ireland business. The company, still family owned and in business for more than 140 years, ranks as Ireland’s leading food retail, wholesale and foodservice company with more than 1,000 stores and offices across the island and total sales of €4.5 billion. The parent group also operates the Musgrave Marketplace wholesale business and the Drinks Inc wholesale alcohol sales business.

Eye on Retail

“Covid was a major test for us, just as it was for every retailer. But we came through it, we learnt from it, and we welcomed more customers to our brands during those days. Customers wanted to shop locally and wanted to shop in stores that they trusted and felt safe in, and we continue to build on these relationships created during that time.

“We’re definitely in good health and we’re going in the right direction,” he says. “Now we are concentrating on accelerating growth and growing in retail means driving like-for-like sales and opening new stores.

“It is a very competitive marketplace. There are the big supermarket groups, and there are also very professional convenience retail specialists. But there are definitely gaps in the retail landscape, and many opportunities out there.

“Our priority is to drive growth in our existing businesses through

like-for-like sales by ensuring we offer value in the market and remain relevant to our customers. For example, the launch of our EPIC Deals campaign across SuperValu and Centra stores in January, offers our shoppers excellent savings on big brand products and will continue throughout the year.”

Competitor conversions is also key priority for Musgrave – convincing existing independent retailers that their future lies with one of the Musgrave brands – and Paddy welcomes discussion with interested parties.

“Our growth is also fuelled by identifying and developing new retail sites, both on greenfield and brownfield sites and we’re always on the look-out for opportunities,” he says.

In parallel, the company is committed to a continuous programme of investment in modernising, refurbishing, and equipping its existing stores.

Outlets in Portstewart,

Omagh, West Belfast and Portglenone are among those to have benefitted from recent company-led investments.

Unlike its direct competitors, Musgrave operates increasing numbers of stores combining convenience retail with an offlicence offering, something that sets the group apart.

Other innovations include the development of its bean to cup Frank and Honest gourmet coffee brand – now the largest on-thego coffee brand on the island of Ireland – which also offers shoppers a digital loyalty app.

The group is also focused on sustainability as it works towards its ambition of achieving net zero carbon by 2040. Introducing measures such as electronic shelf edge labels, self-check outs, LED lighting and energy efficient refrigeration across the estate, Musgrave is also supporting its retail partners make their stores more sustainable and launched a £2.7m

Sustainability Fund for SuperValu and Centra stores last year, with a further £1m added to the fund in 2023. The fund, which is part of the Group’s overall sustainability strategy, will result in an estimated 12% carbon reduction by the company over a two-year period.

“There are plenty of challenges for retail at the moment. We all have to face cost increases and rises in energy costs,” Paddy Murney says. “And, in the sector we operate in, succession is another challenge. Most of our stores are operated by independent retailers, and it can be hard for them to ensure succession within their families, but we are on hand to support them with future plans.

“As things stand, we’ve got firm plans for 15 new stores across Northern Ireland in the shortterm future,” he adds. “Even though there are challenges to navigate, we are stepping up that pace of growth. We’re confident and we’re optimistic.”

Eye on News

Enjoy Chocolate for Grown-Ups with Coole Swan Signature Serves

With brighter evenings and a long weekend on the horizon, Coole Swan has launched three fresh new cocktail recipes with a touch of chocolate that are perfect for hosting.

Coole Swan, the independently owned and family run Irish cream liqueur, has launched three fresh new cocktails to be enjoyed this Easter long-weekend and beyond Whiskey, chocolate and cream are the three perfectly blended ingredients in Coole Swan and these serves offer grown-ups an alternative way to get their chocolate fix during the Easter long weekend and into summer. Perfect for creating a wow factor when hosting, the signature serves include the silky Coole Blue, the fresh Coole Smooth and a Coole Swan twist on a classic, the Coole Grasshopper. Nothing on the drinks market compares to the versatility and quality of Coole Swan, a refreshing modern craft blend of whiskey, chocolate and cream. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy chilled, over ice or in a diverse and exciting range of cocktails. As always, the innovators at Coole Swan push boundaries when it comes to getting creative with cream liqueur. The silky liquid is lighter than traditional cream liqueurs and plays well with other drinks. For the Easter long weekend and then into summer, Coole Swan encourages fans of Irish cream liqueur to try a fresh and fun approach to cocktails. For those who want to add a drop of luxury to their every day, try one (or all) of these delicious serves:

Coole Blue:

This silky sky blue Coole creation packs a punch. Combining Coole Swan, Blue Curacao, Grand Marnier and Tequila Blanco this serve is perfect for those who enjoy an orange hit with their chocolate; a modern take on a classic pairing. For the pièce de resistance Coole Swan recommends garnishing with an edible orchid to make a real statement when hosting.

Coole Smooth:

If Coole Swan did champagne, this would be it. Coole Swan, cooled chai tea, spiced rum, cinnamon syrup and sweet brown sherry are shaken together to produce a light, spiced, perfectly balanced and very moreish cocktail. Topped with maraschino cherries and served in a champagne flute, the Coole Smooth makes a fun and refreshing celebration or welcome drink.

Coole Grasshopper:

This classic cocktail has been reimagined with a Coole Swan twist. Famous for its minty kick, green glow and silky smooth texture, it’s the perfect pour to enjoy at home with family and friends. Combining Coole Swan, Crème de Menthe and Crème de Cacao, this serve is simple yet powerfully flavourful, combining two palate pleasers – mint and chocolate. The Coole Grasshopper is ideal for an at-home celebration… or on any night of the week for that matter. To be garnished with a chocolate straw or grated chocolate.

Coole Swan is available in Tesco, Supervalu, Centra and a range of independent retailers across Northern Ireland. A full list of stockists is available here. Price from £22.

Eye on News

Musgrave NI announces £18 million investment for 2023

Musgrave Northern Ireland, which operates the SuperValu, Centra and MACE brands, has announced investment of £18 million for 2023, opening 18 new stores across the region creating 250 jobs.

Already this year, Centra Foxes Glen on the Stewartstown Road, Belfast opened its doors supporting 21 jobs, including 10 new positions.

The investment will also fund significant refurbishments of SuperValu and Centra stores. Following the refresh of four SuperValu stores in 2022 as part of Musgrave’s SuperValu Rejuvenation programme, several new stores will benefit from refurbishment creating an enhanced shopping experience, including a new hot and cold deli counter, a Moo’d Ice Cream bar, expanded in-store bakery, and an upgraded off-licence.

Trevor Magill, Managing Director for Musgrave in Northern Ireland said:

“We have ambitious plans to grow our network of stores this year with 18 new stores due to open

in 2023 across the region. Working with our retail partners, we are making significant upgrades to our stores to ensure that we are providing the best quality shopping experience possible, whilst reducing our impact on the environment.

“Our stores are at the heart of the communities in which we operate, and I’d like to thank our dedicated teams across SuperValu, Centra and MACE for helping us provide those communities with great quality, value and excellent customer service.”

In 2022 Musgrave introduced a £2.7M Sustainability Fund, and in 2023 environmental impact remains high on the agenda with an additional £1M committed to supporting stores in reducing their carbon footprint. To achieve Musgrave Group’s goal of Net Zero by 2040, the business has been supporting its retailers by providing suitable initiatives based on each store’s needs and set-up, including upgrading freezers and refrigeration units, LED lighting retrofit, solar panels, and electronic shelf edge labels (eSELs).

KPMG Bolsters Deal Advisory Practice

James Neill has been announced as a Partner in KPMG and the new head of the Restructuring and Forensics practice in Northern Ireland, one which boasts deep experience and a market leading reputation for handling some of the province’s largest and most complex turnaround and restructuring projects. With over 20 years’ experience across the breadth of business restructuring and corporate finance, James has extensive experience advising a wide range of both performing and distressed businesses across all key sectors in Northern Ireland. He has worked on some of the most high-profile insolvency and restructuring projects in Northern Ireland in that time and has a particular specialism advising corporates in turnaround scenarios.

James is also an active member of Chartered Accountants Ireland, is the immediate past chairman of the NI region of R3, the association of Business Recovery Professionals and is an accredited expert witness who regularly provides expert witness testimony.

James will be joined by Director John Donaldson, who also has extensive experience advising on business turnarounds, corporate restructuring and insolvency.

Johnny Hanna, Partner in Charge at KPMG in Northern Ireland, said: “I am delighted to welcome James and the team to KPMG. They bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge within the restructuring and forensics area which will help to grow our reputation as a market leader in the sector.

“We take our role as a true partner to the local economy seriously and this latest investment highlights our commitment to invest and broaden our skills base to meet the changing needs of business. KPMG is perfectly placed to help Northern Ireland’s public and private sector take advantage of the growing wealth of levers – a range of city deals, dual market access to the UK and EU and the chance to devolve corporation tax-setting powers – which will act as a catalyst

for economic and social growth and a prosperous future for the province.”

James Neill said: “I’m excited to be joining KPMG at a time of growth for the firm. The team and I are focussed on building upon the firm’s reputation within the restructuring sector throughout Ireland.

“The skills and experience of the team, combined with the breadth and depth of expertise from the wider KPMG family worldwide, provide an exceptionally strong offering for our clients.”

KPMG provides audit, tax, deal

advisory and consulting services to the private and public sectors throughout Northern Ireland. Clients include government departments and agencies, multi-national organisations, entrepreneurs, owner-managed businesses and inward investors.

The Belfast office is also home to the firm’s Centre of Excellence which delivers a range of digital consultancy services in growth areas including cyber-security, applied intelligence (AI) and digital transformation for clients across the UK and Ireland.

Pictured, from left, is: James Neill, Partner in KPMG and the new head of the Restructuring and Forensics practice in Northern Ireland, and Johnny Hanna, Partner in Charge of KPMG in Northern Ireland.

KPMG is continuing the next stage of its Northern Ireland growth strategy with a number of key senior appointments to further strengthen its Deal Advisory practice.

Eye on Lifestyle

Townsend CEO’s Six Stone Weight Loss Leads to Major Life Transformation and Business Success

helping them to lose weight, boost confidence and improve overall health.

As she approaches her 60th birthday and completes a £200K revamp of the historic Enterprise Park, Margaret is brimming with energy and is unrecognisable to her former self…

On May Day 2021, just as lock-down 3 was coming to an end, Margaret happened upon a new Lifestyle Programme launched by Cinch Fast 30 looking for trial participants to take part in a 30-day Intermittent Fasting Challenge.

Margaret was weighing the heaviest she had ever been, very low energy, had aches and pains preventing her from running and felt at an alltime low. She decided to take up the offer and threw herself in.

And now, two years on, and six stone lighter, Margaret feels this is one of the best decisions she has ever made and is encouraging and motivating others to take up the Challenge and give it a go.

What is the Cinch Fast 30?

Cinch Fast 30 was set-up by two local businesswomen, Nicola McIlhagger and Angela Hunter, following their own success with weight loss and health improvements using Intermittent Fasting. Having tried numerous High Street diets over the years, and despite being extremely active, this duo still struggled to get results. They identified a clear gap in the market for an easy weight-loss alternative which didn’t involve calories counting, syns, cutting out major food groups or pounding it out at the gym. They trialed and researched the topic of Intermittent Fasting extensively and developed a 30-day programme, and lost a combined 2.5 stone, and helped Nicola manage her Endometriosis symptoms.

To-date the Cinch Fast 30 has helped over 1,000 people world-wide take back control of their lifestyle,

Cinch Fast 30 is an online community which features a series of E-books, daily videos direct to email, together with ongoing group support. There is also a recipe library and ten minute work-out videos. There are also weekly Zooms, regular meet-ups, retreats, Supper Clubs and events. Mindset is a huge part of the programme, which is the missing link in most weight loss programmes.

Cinch Fast 30 is a community of people, with a similar goal, to live a happy, healthy life, without deprivation.

The results have been phenomenal with many Challengers reporting not only significant weight loss, better sleep, reduced brain fog, much more energy and a better relationship with food and themselves.

Margaret is just one of hundreds of people who is now down 4 dress sizes and has a huge a renewed level of energy and has had a complete reduction in knee and joint pain. She has since been able to return to running and has run numerous 10km races and the Belfast Half Marathon, September last year, 9 years since she last ran it and although older had her best time – she is a completely transformed, healthier version of herself.

Margaret said:

“I have always led a busy, active lifestyle, and my job involves me wearing many different hats throughout the day, from managing leases for new and existing tenants, to board meetings with the trustees, liaising with tenants on various issues from parking to insurance, bringing new economic life to the area and everything in between. It’s a busy active role and requires a lot of focus and energy.

“Throughout lockdown, we were working from home a lot, and this led to weight gain and like most people at that time, an unhealthy relationship with food.”

“I had reached the point where I was too scared to weigh myself or let anyone take my photo because I was so unhappy with the way I looked. I didn’t even recognise myself,” she said.

Over the years she had tried different

‘High Street Diets’ and even as an avid gym goer and runner, still battled with her weight. At that time commented Margaret, “I was fit but I wasn’t really burning fat, I just couldn’t get it shifted.”

“I was scrolling on Instagram May Day 2021, and came across a post by the Cinch ladies, looking for trial participants for a new weight loss and health boost program they were launching, the next day, called Cinch-Fast 30.

“I had never heard of Intermittent Fasting, but at my wits end with my weight and tired of trying to count calories or cut our carbs, I was intrigued to find out more.

“I got in touch and was delighted to be told I had secured a place on the trail.

“Straight away I knew that this was a brand-new way of looking at my diet and my lifestyle. Nicola and Angela were so welcoming, and I was inspired by their own stories of weight loss and passion behind the brand.

“The range of materials we were given access to was unbelievable – so detailed, well researched and so simple to follow.”

“The manual outlined all of the information about Intermittent Fasting and how by changing the timing of your meals each day you can both allow your body to burn fat and to heal, something I had never been able to achieve.”

“We were encouraged to make these changes extremely slowly, which I did, with the support of Nicola and Angela and the other trial participants and as this is a lifestyle not a diet I worked it to fit into my lifestyle, so much so that I didn’t tell anyone at the beginning what I was doing. I didn’t want the continuous comments we often get which are “how is the diet going?!!”

“Very quickly I started to feel the results.

“I didn’t even weigh myself at the start as I just didn’t want to face reality.

“So, I judged my progress on my clothing – which started to feel looser within the first two weeks.

“After the initial adjustment period of about a week or two, I started to really enjoy delaying eating each day –something I never thought I would hear myself say and what surprised me even more was the increased energy levels!

Margaret Patterson McMahon is CEO of Townsend Enterprise Park, West Belfasta charitable organisation whose aim it is to stimulate social and economic regeneration.

Eye on Lifestyle

I couldn’t believe what energy I had all whilst in that fasting period. The reverse was happening the less food I give my body the more it give back to me. Also what I noticed was the clearer clarity I had, something which is vital when you are dealing with so many different situations in the day which I could be as a working mum of two teenagers and you have to make decisions and multi-task!”

“In the mornings I sipped on a combination of hot water and black coffee – gone were my endless cups of milky coffee followed by breakfast, office ‘elevensess’ and a big lunch. Indeed I never thought that black coffee would be something I could ever take and I now love it.”

“I brought my Overnight Oats into work and ditched all the highly processed sugary snacks, in fact as time went time I didn’t even want them. My mindset had changed as had my taste. I just loved how good, good food tasted and that became my automatic food of chose.”

“Instead of biscuits, I have one of my Cinch Protein Balls in the Afternoon and a big healthy dinner in the evening which could be anything from a fish dish, chicken or veggie – tasty, simple meals the entire family can enjoy. The recipes are so simple, family friendly and delicious, however I did allow myself a little something of what I love but always in a eating window, that’s what makes this a lifestyle and not a diet.”

“Following the 30 days, my results were undoubtable and quite amazing – my aches and pains had lessened dramatically, my mobility increased, and my afternoon cravings and energy slump were gone. Also gone was the need to feel that as a woman of a certain age I felt

the need to take vitamin supplements. All that has gone and I take absolutely nothing nor do I feel the need to. That is something I feel very privileged for.”

“I made the decision to stay in the group with most of the other trial participants who were experiencing equally as amazing results.

“Very soon after starting I was back to hiking for miles. Then about 8 months in, I gradually started running again –something I thought at age 59 was a thing of the past! Having completed the Belfast Half Marathon, in memory of a friend who died suddenly whilst on holiday having suffered a heart attack and raised funds for the Air Ambulance NI, one of the family’s chosen charities, I now have my sights on completely the Great North Run in September, supporting the British Heart Foundation. I have always watched this on TV in awe and completely moved by the many stories of those running for their chosen charity. The British Heart Foundation has meaning to me with family and friends suffering from heart disease.”

“The amazing thing about Cinch is that it’s so much more than Intermittent Fasting. Nicola and Angela encourage everyone to get out and active as much as possible. Anything from walking, cold water swims, gym classes, jogging, hikes, yoga or a Park Run. They encourage you to take time for yourself and find an activity that you enjoy. This is as much for your mental health as for your physical health and as a Trustee of the Community Sports Network whose charitable objective it is to promote healthy living through being active and eating well I whole heartly feel that I should do the same and help others to do so also”

“I wholeheartedly recommend this

lifestyle to anyone, and of course anyone can do it themselves, the difference in doing it with the Cinch Fast 30 is that online community which the ladies have built. We are all cheerleaders for each other. There is no judgement, no guilt if you have had a bad day, just support, friendship and lots of laughter. Also it is not a once size fits all! You shape it to fit you and life. It’s an individual journey and we all get to our own individual end goals.

“Hands down, Cinch FAST 30 is the best decision I have made for me in many years and when you get to a certain age you should never give up believing in yourself and what is possible and what you can achieve.”

What is Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent Fasting (IF) is based on the theory that during fasting periods, the body has a chance to heal and reduce inflammation. Insulin production is reduced, encouraging the body to use energy in stored fat cells, leading to weight loss. Short periods of fasting also help promote autophagy, the body’s way of cleaning out damaged cells to regenerate newer, healthier cells.

Angela Hunter co-founder of the Cinch Fast 30 program said: “We are absolutely blown away by Margaret’s results.

“I had known Margaret for a few years as she was a PR client, and to have her onboard from day one of this programme has been a complete joy.

“Margaret has always been a wonderful businesswoman and mentor, and now, true to form that she has reached her own target weight loss of six stone, she is encouraging and motivating others within our group day and daily, to inspire them to achieve success in their persuit of weight-loss and wellbeing.”

“The participants are consistently reporting that they are feeling better than they have in years.

“This programme is very gradual and managed. There’s no strict or extended fasting and no-calorie

reduction or counting. Instead, all of our challengers choose their own daily eating window based on mood, feeling, cycle, stress levels, how they slept the night before, their diary, etc.

“It is highly flexible and not prescriptive or restrictive. It puts the challenger in complete control. I believe this is why we have had such a tremendous success rate.”

“This is not a quick-fix diet. The 30-day challenge is just the beginning of a lifestyle change.

“We give people these tools for life, with many people reporting that this has changed their life.”

Nicola McIlhagger, co-founder of the Cinch Fast 30 program continued: “When we started this program, we had this overwhelming desire to help empower people to take back ownership of their own health and weight by educating them, inspiring and motivating.”

Results for Cinch Fast 30 participants are tangible, measurable and based on recognised scientific principles. However, Angela and Nicola feel it’s important to say they are not health professionals, dieticians or nutritionists.

“The Cinch FAST 30 is a first-hand account of our experience with intermittent fasting. We stress that we are not doctors, nor nutritionists and don’t claim to be,” Angela added.

As with all diet or lifestyle changes, we advise all participants to check with their doctor before embarking on any change to their eating pattern or diet.

You can sign up for the Cinch FAST 30 programme at www.cinchfast30.com –prices start at £49.99

Get an Extra 10% off with Business Eye

Bronze package - use code ‘Mags-Bronze’£49.99 (£45.99 with discount)

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Angela Hunter and Nicola McIlhagger

Eye on News

Digital skills empower disabled artists

to those interested in sensory disabilities, as the technology was created originally as an access tool.

The masterclass on Thursday, June 15 is Sound like a Pro, with Peter Fleming, a stroke survivor, musician, songwriter and owner of his own recording studio, White Mountain Music in Maghera. Those taking part will learn how to use recording software, how to record a vocal or an instrument with a microphone or a mini keyboard, how to mix what is recorded, and how to use a free mastering website to create their own mastered track for podcast or music.

An ambitious project led by disabled artists for disabled artists is delivering top quality digital technology masterclasses to level the playing field and increase technology skills opportunities in Northern Ireland’s creative arts sector.

Digital Horizon, run by the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability (UofA), offers five new disabled-led masterclasses for d/ Deaf, disabled and neurodiverse artists to empower others to use technology to further their careers.

Head of Business Administration at UofA, Edel Murphy, who is leading the programme said: “Our masterclasses are facilitated by accomplished deaf, disabled and neurodiverse artists for their peers using the latest technology to develop their careers. These masterclasses will support the disability arts sector to pursue new ambitions with the use of digital technology.”

All masterclasses are free to attend and take place from May 12 to June 23 at the UofA Ledger Studio in Royal Avenue in Belfast. This professional

development programme is part of the three year Digital Horizon initiative funded by the Santander Foundation’s Financial & Digital Empowerment Fund. Masterclass topics include creating digital artwork, producing electronic promotional press kits, the use of motion sensors in live performance, professional sound recording and an introduction to British Sign Language (BSL) presentation.

The first masterclass on Friday, May 12 is Digital Painting and Moodboards using the digital illustration app Procreate, run by award-winning artist Joel Simon, a professional visual artist based in Belfast. Joel, who is an amputee, has work spanning many visual mediums including painting, animation and film.

This Masterclass is suitable for practitioners of all visual arts and is aimed at artists who want to develop their knowledge in using technology in visual creations. They will learn how to create digital artwork, mood-boards and colour studies using Procreate.

The second masterclass on Thursday, May 18 is Create Your Own Digital Press

Pack and is led by Kris Marsden an accomplished songwriter and musician who has toured with Pete Doherty. Much of his work is based on personal experience of mental health issues and he has organised gigs to raise funds for World Mental Health Day.

Kris’s masterclass is suitable for any art form and will show artists how to plan and develop their own professional press packs or EPKs (Electronic Press Kits) including writing your own short biography, selecting and editing images and logos, including reviews.

The third masterclass on Friday, June 2 is Motion Sensors in Performance, run by Ben Glover, who is deaf and Stephen Bailey, who is autistic and disabled. They run London-based ASYLUM Arts, which is dedicated to improving neurodivergent and disabled representation in the arts.

Participants will learn how new motion sensor technology can be used in creative performance. This masterclass will be of interest to people who work in the theatre or performance. It is also relevant

The fifth masterclass on Friday, June 23 is What Makes an Excellent BSL Presenter and Broadcaster, with Paula Clarke, a deaf artist, performer and tutor, who works as a BSL broadcaster on the BBC. In this masterclass, participants will learn presentation and interviewing skills, and gain knowledge from examples and highlights of Paula’s career. They will be given the opportunity to practise what they learn and even possibly create their own BSL broadcast for social media.

Edel added: “We welcome artists and creative people to sign up for one of these fantastic masterclasses or indeed apply to be part of the next series of masterclasses to be programmed in 2023.”

The principal funder of the University of Atypical is the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Patricia Lavery, Head of Community Arts and Education, at the Arts Council, said: “The Arts Council of Northern is committed to supporting meaningful opportunities for d/Deaf, disabled and neurodiverse artists to develop their professional, artistic careers. We are delighted to support the University of Atypical and their impressive Digital Horizon programme which helps to strengthen the Disability Arts sector in the region and enable our disabled artists to learn new skills from experts in the use of emerging digital technologies when creating artwork.”

For more information about how to take part in the masterclasses go to: www.universityofatypical.org

Musician, Peter Fleming, broadcaster, Paula Clarke, musician, Kris Marsden and artist, Joel Simon launch a new series of digital skills masterclasses led by disabled artists for disabled artists as part of the Digital Horizon project. For more information about how to take part in the free masterclasses go to: www.universityofatypical.org

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has received £5.1m from the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund, breathing new life into Antrim and Glengormley town centres. This means new space for businesses, entrepreneurs and local job opportunities.

The funding received through Levelling Up alongside the Council’s investment of over £5m, will create two state of the art flagship hubs, offering 16,000 sq ft of offices/workspace and shared areas in each town centre. This modern, flexible and highly accessible accommodation will meet the needs of new start up businesses, early growth businesses and budding entrepreneurs.

Watch the transformation take shape at…

ANTRIM

Former Wellworths building on the High Street with a new riverfront access.

GLENGORMLEY

Former Police Station site at the junction of the Glenwell Road and the Antrim Road.

If you are an entrepreneur looking for a supportive environment to start a business, a small business owner looking for that next workspace or you are just looking for a place to hot desk then get in touch to find out more E. investment@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Eye on Charity

Action Your Will and Help Saves Lives

Participating solicitors across Northern Ireland are waiving their fees for basic wills in a month of their choosing. In lieu of payment, clients’ donations will help towards raising funds for Action Cancer’s range of services including: therapeutic support services and their unique breast screening service.

It is estimated that 70% of the adult population in Northern Ireland do not have a will.

Mark Jones, Corporate Fundraising Executive with the charity, said: “We are delighted to have the support and generosity of so many solicitors here in Northern Ireland, including Donnelly & Kinder who have been extremely

kind in donating their time and fees. These solicitors can accommodate will writing, free of charge to their clients in a month of their choice. All donations in lieu of will writing will directly support Action Cancer’s unique breast screening service and its important counselling and therapeutic services.”

Ann Kinder, Managing Partner of Donnelly & Kinder, said: “The work of Action Cancer positively impacts the lives of thousands of people across Northern Ireland every year and we believe it is now more important than ever to support our local charities. At Donnelly and Kinder Solicitors, we have over twenty years of will writing expertise which we are proud to offer,

whilst also helping to support Northern Ireland’s leading, local cancer charity.”

Action Cancer is Northern Ireland’s leading, local cancer charity and all money raised stays in Northern Ireland to support local people affected by cancer.

2023 marks Action Cancer’s 50th Anniversary. The charity has been at the heart of cancer prevention, detection and support for people in Northern Ireland since 1973. The services that Action Cancer provide are unique and free to the user but come at a cost to the charity of £4 million every year. These services include an early detection breast screening clinic, therapeutic services for people living with a cancer diagnosis as well as people supporting a loved one with a diagnosis and a range of health improvement services. These can be accessed from Action Cancer House in Belfast or from 13 regional locations and on board the Big Bus, supported by SuperValu and Centra which travels to over 200 locations each year.

Participating solicitors have each chosen a month to waive their fees in support of Action Cancer: Donnelly & Kinder Belfast (March), Donaghy Carey Solicitors Belfast (March), Stephen Begley &Co (April), Thompsons NI, Belfast (April), J.W. McNinch & Son Solicitors, Ballyclare (April), Conn & Fenton, Lisburn (May), James T. Johnston & Co, Belfast (May and June), Donard King & Co Solicitors, Ballynahinch (June), Roche McBride Solicitors, Strabane (October), James McNulty & Co, Omagh (November) and Kearney Sefton Solicitors, Belfast (November).

To find out more, visit www.actioncancer.org/fundraising/ action-your-will or contact Mark Jones at Action Cancer on 028 9080 3345 or mjones@actioncancer.org

Ann Kinder, Managing Partner and Leah Deehan, Solicitor at Donnelly & Kinder Belfast joined Action Cancer to launch the charity’s ‘Action Your Will’ campaign.

Ann Kinder, Managing Partner of Donnelly & Kinder and Leah Deehan, Solicitor Donnelly & Kinder joined Lucy McCusker and Mark Jones from Action Cancer to launch the charity’s ‘Action Your Will’ campaign.

FRIDAY 8TH DECEMBER 2023

TITANIC BELFAST

DON’T MISS OUT!

Secure your table of 10 ~ £1,500

Email: thechristmasball@actioncancer.org

Eye on Voluntary Sector

Steering Rotary Ireland On A Steady Course

Eye on Voluntary Sector

from their experiences, exhausted from travel and with few or no possessions.

Howard Caskie from Limavady Rotary has been co-ordinating the District’s response to this emergency.

connections with several counties north, south, east and west. The son of a Garda, he was born in Kilrush in West Clare before his father was transferred to Limerick and then to Naas in Kildare where he attended primary and secondary school at the local CBS.

Amember of Rotary for 24 years, he had held several Rotary positions both locally and at Ireland district level, including Omagh Club President and membership convenor for Ireland. But he saved the top job for his retirement, stepping into the role of District Governor of Rotary Ireland in September of last year. If he thought for a moment life was going to slow down – it was just for a moment. He says in Rotary there is always something happening.

“Rotary International is a humanitarian service organisation so when a disaster occurs our network of 68 clubs and 1,700 members all over the island of Ireland can respond very quickly. For example, once news broke about the catastrophic earthquake in southern Turkey and northern Syria we immediately launched an appeal among our clubs with all funds going to our partner organisation for emergency relief ShelterBox.

ShelterBox is an ideal partner to have in this situation as it specialises in providing tents, blankets, warm clothes and other aid to people affected by natural disasters.

Rotarian Kerr Fulton-Peebles, who is attached to Enniskillen Rotary Club, is an advocate for ShelterBox in Ireland and is coordinating club efforts to assist with fundraising and with collating information from ShelterBox as the situation unfolds.

All finances are being directed to the Rotary Ireland account where District Treasurer Seamus Parle in Wicklow is administrating the fund. At present he is sending donations twice weekly directly to ShelterBox. As of the end of February £30,000, had been raised with more events and clubs to contribute. Our target is to reach £50,000 in the short term but given the scale of the disaster we are hoping to raise £100,000 overall.”

Prior to the earthquake, one of the groups which Rotary clubs here mobilised to help were Ukrainian refugees. The Irish Republic was one of the first countries to open its doors to refugees and clubs all over the island were quick to offer aid to people fleeing the war following the invasion of their homeland by Russia. In very many cases they arrived traumatised

Rotary came up with the idea of preparing ‘Welcome Packs’ for the refugees, for use for example by members of Wexford Rotary when meeting refugees at Rosslare ferry port. These contained not just essential clothing, snacks, basic medical support, footwear and hygiene products but also additional items like phone chargers and toys for children. Later when the needs of refugees who had been resident here for some months changed, a second grant was allocated to things like English classes, swimming lessons, childcare and counselling services as well as refurbished bicycles for mobility.

In Ukraine itself Rotary became aware of the plight of the Kovalenko family, two parents and eight children. Within five minutes of evacuating their home in Kyiv, the building was demolished by a Russian missile, leaving the family traumatised and without shelter. A third grant enabled the construction of a prefabricated house comprising kitchen, bathroom, 2 bedrooms with double bunks for the kids and a lounge / bedroom for the parents. It was constructed within two weeks and meant the Kovalenkos had a warm home for Christmas.

Currently, Rotary Ireland is negotiating with the Rotary Club of Kyiv- International to equip a shelter for Internally Displaced People. The project, which involves the purchase of beds, bedding, basic storage furniture and water filters, will be financed from contributions made by Rotary club members all over the island.

Sean FitzGerald says the dynamic response by Rotary Ireland to events in Ukraine and Turkey/Syria shows what can be achieved by people working on the ground as part of a coordinated team.

“There are many families in Turkey / Syria and Ukraine like the Kovalenkos which need help. That presents people with a choice. You can stand on the side-lines and say it’s too big a problem or you can actually get involved and make a contribution. Rotary is built on a very strong ethos of service, of giving of one’s time to help others. That’s why we believe it’s the perfect organisation for people of all ages who wish to turn ideas into action and become a force for positive change.”

Despite having been away at sea for many years Sean embodies Rotary Ireland’s all island outlook, given he has strong

He later studied at Jordanstown Polytechnic – now the University of Ulster –in Co Antrim where he met his wife Liz before completing his master’s at the National Maritime College and Institute in Cork. They lived in Carrickfergus for a period before returning to Liz’s hometown of Omagh –where he first joined Rotary in 1999.

Sean loves meeting people from the different clubs, and he says one of the advantages of moving around so much in his youth, is it makes it a little easier to make connections.

“I met former Taoiseach Micheál Martin in Cork before Christmas for the launch of the local club’s Remembrance Tree. I’d never met him before, but we got talking and it turned out he went to school nearby. I asked him if he remembered a small sweetshop called FitzGerald’s and of course he was a regular customer. That was my grandfather’s shop. Meeting new friends, making connections working together, that’s a huge part of what Rotary is about.”

He says that although he went away to sea at the age of 18 Rotary later helped him keep a vital connection with normality and provided him with great friendships and support through Rotary International’s global membership of 1.4 million members across 200 countries.

At a very successful annual conference in the City of Derry / Londonderry late last year Sean told delegates he was determined to expand the organisation’s membership and to raise its public profile.

“Rotary is involved in an unbelievable number of areas be it our annual youth leadership competition where we send 24 students to Strasbourg for Euroscola, our School Bikes Africa programme, the elimination of polio or fundraising for health and education projects both here and in the developing world. We have great stories to tell. We just need to draw breath now and again and share them and engage with local communities, particularly with younger people. Rotarians are people of action, making a difference in our communitiesthe world can never get enough of that.”

If you – or family, friends, work colleagues - would like to contribute to one of our appeals or if you’d like to learn more about Rotary or find out where your nearest club is please go to www.rotary.ie

When Captain Sean FitzGerald retired last year after 48 years at sea most people would have forgiven him for putting his sea legs up on the sofa and taking some time out. But Sean FitzGerald isn’t most people. He had other plans.

Eye on Digital

Part Three Digital:

After what began as an idea whilst hiking in the Mourne Mountains, co-founders Jess Orr-Downey and Hannah Bryans, successfully launched social media and search marketing agency, Part Three Digital, in 2020 at the peak of a global pandemic.

Since then, the digital agency has experienced impressive growth year-on-year to become a six-figure revenue business which has doubled in size from four employees, to a team of eight and has acquired a business premises on the Holywood Road in Belfast.

It has been a busy start to 2023 for the team, who have secured the contract as the digital advertising partner for the Game of Thrones Studio Tour. The partnership comes

as the tour continues to attract global visitors to its immersive experience of the TV series, which was filmed primarily at the Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge.

Part Three Digital has been recognised at prestigious industry talent awards, including Small Agency of the Year at The Spider Awards 2022, Best Newcomer at the Digital Media Awards 2022, as well as the Digital DNA Awards, Women in Business NI Awards and NI Social Media Awards.

What makes Part Three Digital different?

“The industry has shifted in terms of how brands want and need results online,” said Jess, “social media marketing and SEO are merging to focus on maximising brand performance in search engines, where there is a focus on creating content that sings, maximising brand awareness, increasing website traffic, growing social media

communities and engagement, as well as share in search results and positive brand sentiment.”

“The majority of agencies on the island of Ireland who touch digital take a ‘holistic approach’ but fail to pack a punch when it comes to social and search marketing – we are here to fill that gap, to work with clients and their agency partners delivering great campaigns that people love to talk about.” added Hannah. “This also includes taking Influencer Marketing seriously, our

The female founded agency changing the game in digital marketing

Eye on Digital

offer too, our culture is incredibly important to us. We are focused on developing people’s careers, everyone at Part Three Digital has a plan to grow and become an expert in their field. We recognise talent and we share and celebrate successes together,” said Jess.

Favourite part of the journey so far…

“Securing the contract as digital advertising partner for Game of Thrones Studio Tour has been an amazing achievement. We are thrilled to be growing our client base in the travel and tourism sector, a thriving industry here in Ireland,” said Jess. “The Game of Thrones Studio Tour joins our growing client roster which includes Santa Rita Wine Estates, [yellow tail], Magners Irish Cider, Tipperary Water, Cow & Gate, Milupa, Outcider, Further.Space, Unilin Insulation, Moody Activewear as well as STORIES Parfum.”

agency has created a whole role dedicated to this aspect of digital.”

According to research by the Digital Marketing Academy of Ireland, Influencer Marketing continues to show sharp growth with market value increasing from $1.7 billion in 2016 to an estimated $16.4 billion in 2022. Influencer Marketing Manager, Ali Fair said, “Within the team at Part Three Digital I bridge the gap for brands struggling to find the ‘right’ influencers to work with. Helping to create more authentic and long term partnerships between brands and content creators.”

A female founded agency in a male dominated sector

“We pride ourselves in being female founded, we intend to create an environment where everyone can thrive, grow and smash their career goals – whether they are team members or our clients. We feel lucky to have partnered with one another, we are 50/50 partners, we make the same money, and we are each other’s rock, we support and complement one another in every element of the business, and we are excited to be on this

journey together,” said Jess.

From 2012-2020, The Agency Collective’s Benchpress, reported 75% of agency leaders being male, the scales are only now starting to tilt in favour of gender diversity, with 2020 recording 36% of agency directors as female, Part Three Digital is a welcomed breath of fresh air to the Northern Ireland business community.

Nurturing young talent for success

Both Jess and Hannah are passionate about nurturing fresh young talent and have developed links with Ulster University, offering guest lectures on digital marketing. “I always got so much value from hearing from industry experts when I was at University and I am so glad we can repay the favour.” said Hannah, “We try to share tangible takeaways with students on SEO and digital advertising. Young talent really is the future in digital marketing. Jess added, “50% of our team are under the age of 30. They live and breathe social media, they are expert video editors and know more about TikTok than most marketing experts.”

Digital Content Executive, Ellen Watson said, “Working for Part Three Digital has allowed me to expand my skills and grow my confidence in digital and search. It feels like a dream come true to work every day with a team who massively inspire me and encourage me to perform at my very best.”

“Our goal is to create an agency that thrives, where long days are the exception, not the rule and our team feel supported at work. We may work hard to get ahead but we enjoy all that life has to

“Another highlight for our team was winning Small Agency at The Spider Awards, that was really special. To be recognised in such a prestigious line up is something we will never forget.” added Hannah, “We had no idea what to expect starting our own business, we have faced many challenges, but the highs have always outweighed the lows. Jess and I both felt that together, we had the passion, skills and drive to succeed in a male dominated market and that we had to take the leap. We would encourage anyone thinking of launching their own business to go for it!”

LEVELLING UP ANTRIM AND GLENGORMLEY

Levelling

Up – neat phrase but what does it actually mean?

Levelling Up is about investing in your area and the things you care about – from parks and high streets to homes and local landmarks, it’s about safer streets, jobs for locals and pride in our hometowns. Levelling Up will bring new

opportunities to parts of the UK that for decades have seen investment and jobs headed elsewhere. Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has received £5.1m from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, breathing new life into Antrim and Glengormley town centres. This means new space for businesses, entrepreneurs and local job opportunities.

The funding received through Levelling Up alongside the Council’s investment of over £5m, will create two state of the art flagship hubs, offering 16,000 sq ft of offices/ workspace and shared areas in each town centre. This modern, flexible and highly accessible accommodation will meet the needs of new start-up businesses, early growth businesses and budding entrepreneurs.

We’re seeking entrepreneurs looking for a supportive environment to start a business, small businesses looking for that next workspace or those just looking for a place to hot desk.

To find out more E. investment@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Funded

Eye on News

BoyleSports to sponsor Summer Festival of Racing at Down Royal

Ireland’s largest independent bookmaker, BoyleSports, will sponsor the highly anticipated Summer Festival of Racing at Down Royal Racecourse following the signing of a new 3-year contract.

One of the most colourful dates in the racing calendar, this partnership gives BoyleSports exclusive naming rights to two celebrated races at the Summer Festival as well as title sponsorship and branding of the full race card at the Down Royal Race Evening on the 2nd June.

‘The BoyleSports Ulster Derby (Premier Handicap)’ and ‘The BoyleSports Ulster Oaks’ will both take place at Down Royal on the second day of the Festival, with a total prize fund of £170,000 up for grabs enticing the cream of Irish racing’s runners and riders.

The prestigious two-day Festival, taking place on the 23rd and 24th June, is no doubt,

the highlight of the summer racing calendar at Down Royal.

As part of the new three-year agreement, BoyleSports will also be the Title sponsor and will have branding rights across the full card for Down Royal’s evening race meeting on Friday 2nd June.

Emma Meehan, Chief Executive of Down Royal Racecourse said: “We are delighted to welcome BoyleSports back to Down Royal with an extended 3-year partnership spanning from 2023-2025.

“Last year’s Summer Festival was a huge success and we’re looking forward to what will be an exceptional two days of racing with a record crowd expected.

“Our Summer Festival is one

of the highlights of our racing calendar, and we are excited for an action-packed weekend full of top-class racing while continuing to build on our long and mutually beneficial relationship for both brands.”

BoyleSports, a family-owned firm established by John Boyle, opened its first shop in Markethill, County Armagh in 1982. The brand is now firmly established as Ireland’s largest privately owned bookmaker, boasting over 375 shops across Ireland and the UK and an extensive online business operating under the BoyleSports.com brand.

Sharon McHugh, Head of PR & Sponsorship at BoyleSports, said: “We are thrilled to be back at Down Royal sponsoring this year’s Summer Festival of Racing. Last year was a fantastic event, and we are looking forward to welcoming racegoers back to what we know will be a great weekend of racing.

“Our new extended partnership with Down Royal highlights our continued investment in Northern Ireland, in local horse racing and it reinforces our support of not only the sport, but the owners, trainers and jockeys involved. This deal will continue to provide us with the opportunity to promote the BoyleSports brand to a diverse audience, to deepen our association with the key festival in the Northern Ireland annual racing calendar and to encourage everyone to have a great day out.”

Gates open at 12pm.

General admission is £25, children under 14 go free, and tickets are available at the turnstiles on arrival.

For full details on the BoyleSports Summer Festival of Racing at Down Royal or to book tickets please visit https://downroyal.com/fixtures/

Sharon McHugh, Head of PR & Sponsorship at BoyleSports with Emma Meehan, Chief Executive of Down Royal Racecourse.

Make Your Mark with DiversityIt Is Not a Choice

Award winning global engineering, technology, and consulting service provider, Expleo employs over 250 staff in NI and in 2023 intends to double this, creating a further 100 jobs in their Belfast office. They believe that not only is Diversity and inclusion the right thing to do both morally and in terms of the business success, but that it is also no longer an option – it is something they MUST deliver on.

Hannah McAteer, Human Resource Business Partner at Expleo explains how they are planning on ensuring a diverse workforce by teaming up with Diversity Mark to become an accredited employer and and why this, along with other initiatives, are so important to the organisation;

“First of all, our customers, suppliers and stakeholders are diverse, and we believe that the workforce that delivers our products and services should reflect that customer base. We have a vast global network reaching from the UK and Ireland to America and India – A diverse workforce is a true reflection of our client base.

“Also, our world is ever changing and as employers we must embrace that change if we are to succeed and to thrive. Our employees are the very core of our business and we must nurture them and create an environment where they are welcomed.

“More and more we are seeing the importance that potential employees place on the intrinsic offering and by that I mean, the STEM industry job market is really quite buoyant, there are good packages out there and good salaries, so it comes down to everything else – our people want to know what is important to us when it comes to the issues that matter

to them. They want to come to work as their authentic selves, and to be accepted, irrespective of their background, sexuality or gender. It is up to us to create that environment for each of our employees.

“At Expleo we put a lot of importance into this area as we fully believe a nurtured employee is a more confident and creative one who will absolutely thrive and innovate – With that in mind, we have introduced several initiatives to increase D&I. We have six employee resource groups from a gender balance group to a parents and carer group to a LBTGQ+ group and more – these groups are vital to maintaining healthy relationships within the workforce and ensuring that management fully understands the needs of our employees.

“We are about to roll out the second tranche of our ‘A Bolder You’ mentoring programme, the first of which was hugely successful and saw ten pairs of mentors and mentees complete the programme which aims to advance female career progression.

“Taking part in Leonard Cheshire’s Change 100 programme gave us access to two new and valuable employees with disabilities who were put through a rigorous and inclusive recruitment process managed by the Change 100 team, this year we are committed to

taking on 5 placements through this scheme or a similar programme.

“In 2022 we had the absolute pleasure of our employees taking part in Belfast’s Pride parade where they marched in solidarity through the streets of Belfast in support of the LGBTQ+ community and we continue to work closely with the Pride team.

“The list of projects we have created to ensure we meet our D&I goals goes on to include our Women Returners Programme to attract more women to Expleo, we’re looking at hiring another 5 through this scheme in 2023.”

A required element of the introductory training at Expleo is also a bullying and harassment module which ensures that all staff are aware of the impact it can have in the workplace. Hannah explains;

“This course not only raises awareness of the impact such acts can have on the individual but it also helps all staff identify what behaviour is acceptable and how they can report it – this keeps the workplace harassment free and leads to happy employees.”

One of the commitments Expleo have made in order to help drive their Diversity and Inclusion journey was to become signatories with Diversity Mark working towards their bronze accreditation, Miss McAteer goes on to say;

“We launched our own D&I strategy to help us hire, retain, and develop top talent in 2019, and we have now signed with Diversity Mark to support our strategy and to help us not only understand and connect better with our employees on a more meaningful level but also to provide us with an accountability partner.

“Working with Diversity Mark allows us to benchmark ourselves against an accredited framework, it helps us to spot any gaps and to see where we are doing well and where we could do better. Having the accreditation to work towards has also given us the motivation to action several initiatives that we had talked about but not put into motion.

“We have a big recruitment drive in place this year and we are confident that our D&I strategy and the support from Diversity Mark will help us to achieve the aim of doubling our workforce in Belfast and maintaining the diversity within the organisation.”

To find out more about becoming accredited with Diversity Mark please visit www.diversity-mark-ni.co.uk

Eye on News

McKeever Hotels and Ulster Bank partner for growth

McKeever Hotels, which has hotels throughout Antrim and in Letterkenny, has announced a new banking partnership with Ulster Bank as the family-run hospitality group sets out fresh plans for growth.

The new partnership sees the business refinance to the bank as it continues to expand and upgrade its hotel portfolio, with major investments at two of the group’s flagship hotels already underway.

Dillons, the 83-bed hotel based in Letterkenny, is currently undergoing a full renovation of a third of its bed stock to create a range of deluxe rooms and suites that offer a luxury stay in the heart of the town’s cathedral quarter.

Formerly the Court Hotel, Dillons was acquired by McKeever Hotels in 2014 and at that time underwent a multi-million euro investment to rejuvenate its public areas.

At the four star Dunadry Hotel and Gardens, several new

investment projects are also under way, including a full refit of its welcome area as well as the development of a new cellar experience that will offer guests wine and whiskey tasting.

Ulster Bank relationship director Richard Lusty says: “McKeever Hotels is a business on an ambitious journey, one that already spans three decades and generations of the McKeever family. Eugene and Catherine had a vision and the determination to see it true. Today, their contribution to the tourism and hospitality sector is unquestionable.

“We’re very proud to be working alongside Eugene, Catherine, and the wider McKeever family,

including their daughter, Bridgene, the group’s marketing director, and son, Eddie, its operations director and current president of the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation. The family business is such an immensely important partner of the local economy and its long-term plans align directly with our commitment to help people, communities and businesses thrive.

“Combining our expertise and support with the family’s drive to better serve the sector, we’re confident McKeever Hotels will be well positioned to maximise its growth potential.”

Eugene McKeever, Managing Director at McKeever Hotels, says:

“We were hugely impressed by the bank’s understanding of our needs, of the sector’s needs, and by the proactivity of Richard and

his team in outlining a funding plan that enables us to meet the current demands of the market while planning for the future.”

The hospitality group is continually working to better serve its residents, communities and the environment, Eugene adds.

“Our partnership with Ulster Bank will see us improve how we operate as a business, helping us to reinvest in our assets and grow with emphasis on reinforcing our sustainability commitments as we continue to explore new energy-efficient upgrades and renewable energy projects.”

Established in 1993, McKeever Hotels operates five hotels, including four in Antrim –Corr’s Corner Hotel, Dunsilly Hotel, Adair Arms Hotel and Dunadry Hotel – and one, Dillons Hotel, in Letterkenny.

Ulster Bank’s Andy Tew and Richard Lusty with Eugene (left) and Eddie McKeever (right) of McKeever Hotels.

Roseann Kelly

Forging International Connections For NI Businesswomen

Eye on Women In Business

This has never wavered. The WIB Group now includes the business units, the Women in Business Network, we all know and love; Diversity Mark, the accreditation body for corporate companies; our Centre of Learning, offering business and personal educational development and Timely Careers promoting employment opportunities for women returners. The WIB Group is passionate about building a prosperous economy which is inclusive of all.

More recently we have been working to promote Northern Ireland and its inclusive business ethos on a global scale. Through our connections and relationships with the Dubai Women’s Business Council, Washington DC Chamber of Commerce and most recently our own International Voices of Leadership conference, we have a renewed ambition to deliver growth and gender equality that will ultimately bring prosperity to not only our economy but to society as a whole.

I had the opportunity recently of Interviewing Dr Raja Al Gurg, founder and President of the Dubai Business Women Council and one of Forbes World’s most powerful international businesswomen, at the Queen’s

University Chief Executive’s Club. Throughout our conversation, a theme that cropped up again and again was how great leaders put people at the very centre of their business. I was really moved by Dr Raja’s strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Inspired by her leadership on a global scale, the conversation got me thinking about the importance of networking and connecting people internationally and the opportunities it creates, for inward investment and growing the NI economy. Dr. Raja Al Gurg was accompanied to Belfast with Board member Faiza Al Sayed and we have agreed

to explore how our networks could work more closely together including establishing a peer mentor programme. We are also exploring a peer mentoring programme and a Memorandum of Understanding with the DC Chamber of Commerce which is headed up by Angela Franco, President and CEO, who I had the pleasure of hosting at our first ever WIB Group Women’s Leadership Roundtable in Washington as part of the events for the St Patrick’s week celebrations. Along with Angela Franco I was joined by a small group of leading businesswomen and agencies including DC Chamber of Commerce, Vital Voices, Ireland Funds, Intertrade Ireland, NI Chamber, CBI, US and NI senior businesswomen, including our own Head of the NI Civil Service, Jayne Brady. We discussed the importance of inclusive leadership and that group brought together real know-how – the who and the what – to make a tangible impact on the world around us. It was an excellent opportunity to promote the Northern Ireland economy and to present the island of Ireland as a location with ample business prospects and, perhaps more excitingly, room for tangible growth. Getting out there and hosting events like

this allows us to have a voice on an international platform and ultimately everyone embraced the opportunity to network for what it really is: a chance to connect and make a difference. At our International Voices of Leadership Conference with global leaders Hillary Clinton, Mary McAleese, Dame Louise Richardson and many others we explored the importance of embracing inclusivity, making your voice heard and looking at the essential strategies to develop as an impactful leader. It was a real honour to bring together such a diverse range of leading female voices to celebrate the changes that they have made possible and showcase how women are leading in business right across our economy. As well as shining a light on their stories of resilience we featured local young voices, Tara Gráinne Ní Chonghaile, Cormac Savage and Farrah OliverMcAuley who all shared their hopes for the future and vision for the next 25 years of social progress in Northern Ireland. Connecting and networking is something that is ingrained in the DNA of the WIB Group. And as the world grows ever smaller we must lift our heads and look for global connections that will have invaluable benefits for our local economy.

Our vision when we started Women in Business almost 21 years ago was to create a new economy, to build a more inclusive economy in Northern Ireland.

Interviewing Dr. Raja Al Gurg

Roseann Kelly with Malcolm O’Hagan and Mary Hearty of InterTrade Ireland

Eye on News

Mobile Dental Care For The Homeless

Clients at Simon Community NI who are suffering the misery of toothache will be able to access free emergency pain relieving treatments on the Dentaid mobile unit.

On board a fully equipped mobile dental unit, volunteers from Bupa Dental Care will be visiting Simon Community NI services in Belfast, Bangor and Armagh every month for the rest of the year.

In addition to offering extractions and fillings, the team will be providing oral cancer checks, scale and polish, preventative treatments and dental health advice.

According to research carried out by Groundswell, 90 per cent of people experiencing homelessness have suffered problems with their mouths. More than half are currently living with the misery of toothache and for some the problem has

become so severe they have tried to extract their own teeth.

Dentaid The Dental Charity has six mobile dental units that visit soup kitchens, hostels, temporary accommodation and community buildings across the UK. In addition to people experiencing homelessness, the charity’s patients include survivors of abuse, refugees and asylum seekers, cancer patients, fishing communities and people overcoming addiction.

“We have had a long-held ambition to extend our charitable dental services into Northern Ireland and help those experiencing homelessness to access dental care,” said Dentaid The Dental Charity CEO Andy Evans.

“We’ll be helping people out of dental pain but also enabling our patients to feel more confident and understand the

importance of dental health.

“We know our patients face many practical, emotional and physical barriers when it comes to dentistry but by taking our mobile dental unit to a location where they feel safe and supported we can give them the best possible chance of accessing care.”

Penny Chapman, Bupa Dental Care Area Manager in Northern Ireland, commented: “We’re proud to partner with two such important charities, Dentaid The Dental Charity and Simon Community NI, to help harder-to-reach communities in Northern Ireland get the dental care they need and deserve.

“We’re currently planning a programme where our dental professionals will go out on the road every month to treat patients in need and help bridge the gap to improving oral health

for those who need it.”

Simon Community NI Chief Executive Jim Dennison welcomed the partnership, “This initiative will help give people their smiles back. Oral care can be extremely challenging for those experiencing homelessness and can cause people to become insecure about speaking or smiling, which further impacts their social isolation.

“The mobile dental unit provided by Dentaid the Dental Charity together with their volunteers from Bupa Dental Care will bring dental care directly to our clients improving their dental health and giving them the opportunity to smile with confidence again.”

Clinician Paul Blundell, patient Curtis and clinician Teona Baillie

People experiencing homelessness in Northern Ireland will receive dental care thanks to a partnership between Dentaid The Dental Charity and Bupa Dental Care.

Cosmetic Surgery Clinic

Treatments Include:

Surgical Procedures

• Breast Surgery

• Facelift

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• Anti-Wrinkle Injections

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Contact us today to book a consultation with one of our Consultant Surgeons. Please call 028 9042 3200 or email frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk cosmetech.co.uk

‘Teeing up’ Northern Ireland in the United States

Tourism Ireland is teaming up with the NBC Golf Channel to promote Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland to golfers in the United States – with a new six-episode miniseries set to showcase our superb golf courses, as well as the array of experiences that visitors can discover off the golf course when they visit.

Golf Channel host Alexandra O’Laughlin and a film crew have been here this week, filming lots of great content at some of our top golf

courses, including Royal County Down Golf Club, Ardglass Golf Club, Holywood Golf Club, Royal Belfast Golf Club, Lahinch Golf Club, Dromoland Castle Golf & Country Club, Adare Manor Golf Club, The K Club, Portmarnock Golf Club and Seapoint Golf Links. Filming also took place at Game of Thrones Studio Tour and the Cliffs of Moher.

The mini-series will air around coverage of the PGA Championship, US Open, The Open and the Ryder Cup, as well as on the digital and social channels of the Golf Channel, during 2023 – reminding US golfers

that now is the time to book a holiday to Northern Ireland.

Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland’s Head of North America, said: “We are delighted to partner with NBC Golf Channel once again, to showcase some of our world-class golf to a huge audience of potential American golf holidaymakers. The mini-series will remind viewers that the island of Ireland offers American golfers the complete package – with some of the very best golf in the world, stunning scenery and the warmest of welcomes – and that now is the time to book their trip.

“Golf is the world’s largest sports-related travel market and Tourism Ireland is working hard to drive home the message that a golfing holiday here is about much more than a round of 18 holes – the combination of our world-class golf and our unique brand of hospitality plays a key role in attracting US golfers.”

Ryan Griffiths, director; Ross McLaughlin, Tourism Ireland; Alex O’Laughlin, NBC Golf Channel presenter; Frank Borden, cameraman and Timothy Nitsch, cameraman during filming for a new NBC Golf Channel mini-series at Royal County Down Golf Club.

Hyundai’s electric dream

Electrification is massive for car owners and the car industry. As consumers, electric cars are a seismic shift in how we buy, own and use our cars. Arguably, the challenge for established car makers is even bigger.

With battery powered cars, there is less to distinguish between them. Combustion engines have taken many different forms over the years but battery powered cars are much more similar in how they work.

It’s also an entirely new technology that’s enabled new players to enter the market. Tesla could never have happened in a petrol / diesel-only car market. And there is a slew of other car makers, many in China, that are looking to muscle in on a sector which has for decades been dominated by big American, European and Japanese brands.

Korean brands Kia and Hyundai see an opportunity too. Having made massive strides in the latter decades of the petrol / diesel era, both are looking to capitalise further in the transition to electric.

Having dipped its toe in the

water with the small Kona electric SUV in 2019, Hyundai upped its game considerably with the Ioniq 5 – UK Car of the Year in 2022.

Recently, a striking saloon – the Ioniq 6 - has been introduced. But this is just the tip of Hyundai’s electric ambitions. It plans to launch 23 all-electric models and reach a sales target of one million BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) by 2025.

For the time being though, the Ioniq 5 remains Hyundai’s flagship electric model and was recently tweaked to include a larger battery version and other improvements.

The entry point to the range remains the 58kWh battery unit mated to a single 168bhp motor driving the rear wheels. However, the 73kWh battery version has been replaced with a 77.4kWh unit, offering increased range and a little extra power. In rear-wheel-

drive form it delivers 225bhp, while opting for the all-wheel-drive version gets you whopping 321bhp.

The original entry level SE Connect Trim has been dropped, leaving Premium, Ultimate and the top-spec Namsan Edition. Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, climate control and smart cruise control. There’s also wireless smartphone charging and two 12.3-inch displays - one covering the infotainment and the other a digital instrument cluster providing key info for the driver.

Also new for 2023 is the addition of a battery heater and conditioning function, which manages battery temperature while on the move and helps to improve real-world charging performance. Other additions include digital rear and side

mirrors, along with Hyundai’s V2L system which allows you to charge portable devices, which might be especially useful for campers.

We’ve become accustomed to the swift performance of electric cars and the Ioniq 5 is no different. The 58kWh battery 168 bhp version is good for a 0-62mph time of 8.5 seconds. The higher output 225bhp and 321bhp versions reduce this to 7.3 and 5.2 seconds respectively. Range is on a par with class rivals. The 58kWh unit is good for 238 miles before recharging, according to Hyundai’s own figures. Realworld figures will deliver a good deal less. The 77.4kWh version ups this to 315 miles in 225bhp trim and 298 miles in 321bhp trim.

The Ioniq 5 is also one of the very few electric cars to support 800V charging, which means much faster charging – theoretically topping up from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 18 minutes. I say theoretically because chargers that can deliver this are rarer than hen’s teeth… for the time being at least. It’s a sign of where electric cars are going though.

Prices start at £43,150 for the Premium level 168bhp variant, rising to £57,650 for the range topping Namsam 77kWh allwheel-drive. The usual super generous Benefit-in-Kind tax rates for company car drivers apply.

The Ioniq 5 shows Hyundai is getting serious about electric power, writes James Stinson.

Motoring with James Stinson

Eye on Motoring

Going to the D-Max

There’s something in knowing what you’re good at and sticking to it. Just ask Isuzu.

The Japanese company only sells pick-ups in the UK and has become rather good at it. Since the launch of the D-Max in 2012, it has sold more than 50,000. Last year, sales were 18% higher in a market that was 30% down on the year before.

That’s no mean feat, given the challenges posed by supply chain shortages right across the automotive sector and continued stiff competition from the likes of Ford, with its Ranger, and Toyota, with its ever-popular Hilux.

The latest D-Max has landed a clutch of awards including “Pick-up of the Year” from 4x4 Magazine and it’s easy to see why. The D-Max is a reliable and extremely capable workhorse that comes stacked with the kind of kit that puts more expensive SUVs to shame.

The range consists of single-cab, extended-cab and double-cab variants. The double cab variants are popular because they give you proper 5-seat carrying capacity.

The range is divided into ‘business’, from £23,149, ‘all-purpose’ and

‘adventure’. You’ll find them on farms, in forests, up mountains and on building sites. Equally, there’s a growing leisure / adventure market for people who spend their weekends speedboating or doing a bit of serious off-roading.

Isuzu went full Mad Max with the launch of a new Arctic Trucks AT35 version last year – a kind of D-Max on steroids, which Isuzu says was “developed and engineered to handle the most challenging landscapes while offering distinctive presence and authentic performance that is noticed everywhere, whether on or off-road”.

That means significant enhancements to the body, frame, drivetrain, suspension, wheels and tyres, aimed at delivering the ultimate in off-road performance.

There’s extra-wide colour-coded wheel arch extensions, which create additional clearance and amplify the vehicle’s raised stance. The vehicle is also equipped with Arctic Trucks extended profile side steps, strengthened Arctic Trucks mud flaps and a versatile 2-inch rear multifunction receiver hitch, enabling the quick and

easy fitment of tow balls, winches, rear-mounted steps and more.

D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 also benefits from an SUV-like level of specification with gunmetal grey exterior styling elements, premium black interior headlining, a nine-inch multimedia system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibility and

exterior and interior along with dedicated locking wheel nuts and an Arctic Trucks torque wrench.

With prices starting from a cool £47,999 (+VAT), the AT35 is very much a halo product but also does a job in highlighting the poise, purpose and adaptability of the whole D-Max range.

Given its capabilities, the D-Max is very refined and comfortable. It boasts a mighty towing capacity of 3,500 kg and a load bed that can carry more than a tonne.

It has genuine off-road credentials too, with a ‘shift on the fly’ transmission that allows you to switch between rearwheel-drive and four-wheel-drive with the twist of a dial. Another setting is ‘4L’, which puts the transmission into a lower ratio.

an eight-speaker sound system. The leather interior includes the Arctic Trucks branding incorporated on the headrests and further benefits from a wireless mobile phone charge point. The vehicle is finished with Arctic Trucks and AT35 badging throughout the

If your work involves a lot of off-roading, the ‘all purpose’ versions all come with a locking rear differential for improved offroad ability. Even these cheaper versions, from £28,149 (+VAT), come with niceties including alloy wheels and heated front seats.

Motoring with James Stinson

Isuzu is making a name for itself as the go-to pick-up maker, writes James Stinson.

“Isuzu went full Mad Max with the launch of a new Arctic Trucks AT35 version last year –a kind of D-Max on steroids.”

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