Business Eye Jan 2016 by Buckley Publications

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Issue 157 Jan 2016 £2.50 Voted best Business Magazine in Ireland 2005 and Magazine of the Year for Northern Ireland

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Bank Targets SME Market Features:

Business Eye First Trust Bank Small Business Awards

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Contents

titanicbelfast.com Jan 2016 ISSUE 157

Cover Story

Barclays...Taking Aim At SME Marketplace

Business Eye First Trust Bank Small Business Awards The Business Eye First Trust Bank Small Business Awards have been launched for a second year, following the success of last year’s inaugural awards. The closing date for entries is Friday, 29th April, with Awards night taking place on Thursday, 2nd June, at the La Mon House Hotel & Country Club.

Barclays Bank might have been working with 500 or so SME’s here in Northern Ireland for a number of years, but the bank’s Head of Northern Ireland Adrian Doran and Corporate Development Director John Matters admit that they’re better known for a different type of banking. But that’s changing.

Catering For A Changing Workplace

Agri Food 2016

Agri Food... Still At The Top Of Its Game Is Northern Ireland’s agri food sector still one of our star performers? What’s needed to keep the sector flying high? We take a start of year look at the wider industry in the company of some of our leading players in the agri food game.

Business Eye joined forces with outsourcing group Mount Charles to stage a Round Table Discussion at the recently refurbished George’s Of The Market Restaurant at Belfast’s St. George’s Market looking at how catering and food in the workplace have changed over recent years, and how both are likely to change in the future

When Northern Ireland’s 26 local councils found themselves whittled down to 11 so-called ‘Super Councils’, each of them had to square up to new challenges along with their bigger areas and larger populations. We profile Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, in a pivotal location to the west and south of Belfast....and on the Belfast-Dublin Economic Corridor

City Airport....Building On A Big 2015 George Best Belfast City Airport has more growth and development in its sights as it takes off into a new year. Last year’s route developments, particularly on the European front, changed the look and feel of the airport. This year, says Commercial & Marketing Director Katy Best, could bring more good news.

Bobby Willis... Mapping Out A Future For Iconic Event Bobby Willis is a man on a mission... to save one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sporting events. He’s the driving force behind the annual Circuit of Ireland Rally, but warns that the event needs a serious dose of sponsorship to ensure its future

Tughans... Experian Title Kicks Off 2016 Law firm league tables aren’t crucial in the highly competitive world of legal services and the experienced leading partners at Belfast law firm Tughans are well aware of that. But at the end of something of something of an annus horribilis, being named at the very top of the Experian Deal Review & Advisor League for Northern Ireland is a major pat on the back... not to mention a significant achievement

Corporate Philanthropy... The Challenges For NI Business Eye teamed up with Giving Northern Ireland for a Round Table event to discuss the issue of strategic approaches to philanthropy and Corporate Social Responsibility. The meeting was held at the headquarters of PricewaterhouseCooper and chaired by Giving Northern Ireland’s Strategic Advisor Sandara Kelso-Robb

Eye on Exhibitions

Eye on Technology

Moving On

Eye on Education

Eye on Digital

Eye on Motoring

Eye on Events

Eye on Film Industry

Editor Richard Buckley Commercial Director Brenda Buckley

Business Development Manager Ciara Donnelly

Design Hexagon Tel: (028) 9047 2210 www.hexagondesign.com

Business Leaders Forum... What Does 2016 Hold? So what does 2016 hold for business and the economy here in Northern Ireland? We gathered together an eclectic mix of business leaders locally to offer their thoughts on the threats and opportunities posed by the coming months

Legal Services

Buckley Publications 20 Kings Road Belfast, BT5 6JJ Tel: (028) 9047 4490 Fax: (028) 9047 4495 www.businesseye.co.uk

Lisburn & Castlereagh... City On A Business Mission

Business Travel

Regulars

Specials

Photography Press Eye 45 Stockmans Way Belfast, BT9 7ET Tel: (028) 9066 9229 www.presseye.com

In this first edition of Business Eye for 2016, we ask a number of business leaders and opinion formers for their thoughts on what the coming 12 months holds in store for the local economy and for businesses here in Northern Ireland.

Comment

“Decisions are being made, money is being spent, sales are going in the right direction and the proverbial tills are ringing a bit more often.”

SPONSORED BY

TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD START-UP BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD CUSTOMER FOCUS AWARD Our judging panel will single out the local small business which most effectively brings to life best practice in customer service across all of its operations. The judges will look for clear evidence of customer satisfaction.

Aimed at Northern Ireland’s most promising start-up enterprise, the award will go to a young company of one year old or less which, in the view of the judging panel, best illustrates what can be achieved by startup businesses across any sector here in Northern Ireland. SPONSORED BY

EXPORTER OF THE YEAR An award which will recognise the top achieving exporting company from Northern Ireland’s small business community, recognising sales achievement in all markets outside of Northern Ireland itself, including both the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain.

MANUFACTURING BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD A category open to all companies with 50 employees or less engaged directly in the manufacture of products for sale in Northern Ireland and in export markets. The judges will look for evidence of research and development as well as innovation in manufacturing.

INNOVATIVE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD Open to companies operating in any business sector, this award will go to the organisation which best illustrates the most effective use of innovation through investment in innovative practices, leading edge products and/or services to contribute to overall business success.

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD A special category aimed directly at Northern Ireland’s growing number of small tourism and hospitality-related business enterprises, including pubs, restaurants, cafes, smaller hotels, tourism activity businesses and transport and travel providers.

This award is open to all small businesses based in Northern Ireland who provide products and/ or services in the wider technology field, including IT services, software development, technology product innovation and consultancy.

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION AWARD Despite smaller budgets, corporate responsibility plays an important role for small businesses in Northern Ireland. This special award will recognise the best example of how small businesses here can help to make a difference in the communities they serve. SPONSORED BY

For further information please contact Ciara Donnelly at Business Eye on 028 9047 4490 or ciara@businesseye.co.uk

enter online at www.businesseyeawards.co.uk 11

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Eye on News

£400 MILLION OF COMMERCIAL PROPERTY INVESTMENT TRANSACTED 2015

number of headline deals led the way in terms of major investments including Erneside Shopping Centre, Enniskillen (£34.25m), Fairhill Shopping Centre, Ballymena (£45.8m) and Showgrounds Shopping Park, Omagh (£26.7m). The market was further buoyed by the agreed sale of Bloomfield Shopping Centre, Bangor to Ellandi/Tristan for

c.£54m, their second major investment of the year after purchasing Erneside Shoping Centre in Enniskillen. Robert Ditty, senior director, CBRE commented: “The commercial investment activity seen in 2015 was strong, however perhaps not as strong as first predicted. A number of deals were delayed and are currently going through legals, meaning that Q1 2016 should see a significant amount of investment activity.” “We expect to see key assets and loan portfolios that were purchased over the last couple of years being re-traded and re-financed as some buyers such as private equity firms look to implement their asset management strategies and capitalise profit” “We also forecast continued improvement in the availability and cost of debt funding for prime income-

producing investment properties over the next 12 months. However it is likely that the availability of debt funding for speculative development will remain elusive for the short term.” He added: “2016 will see more interest from long-term investors as the investment market will be more focussed on generating returns from income and rental-growth.” While it is pleasing to see continued activity from Private Equity and Institutional Investors our Local Investors continue to remain active with many moving up the lot size curve with the assistance of debt finance as our local banks once again begin more normalised lending for commercial property assets. Of the £400m transacted 68% was made up of retail investment, which remains the most sought after sector. Office investment accounted

for only 3% of investment market activity in 2014, this increased to 29% in 2015 as investors sought to gain a foothold in this sector to capitalise on anticipated rental and capital growth as a consequence of the proposed reduction in the NI Corporation Tax Rate.

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Eye on Healthcare

NEW COSMETIC TREATMENTS WITH DR LISA NELIGAN Cosmetic anti-wrinkle treatments are now being performed by Dr Lisa Neligan at Kingsbridge Private Hospital, located on the Lisburn Road, Belfast.

any questions are frequently asked about anti-wrinkle injections:

.• Why does skin age? Aging skin and wrinkles result from a combination of many factors. It’s not just about cellular changes, collagen depletion, hormone loss, or damage caused by free radicals. The 11s - those vertical lines that appear between your brows - result from muscle contractions. When you concentrate, squint, or frown, the muscles between your brows contract, causing your skin to furrow and fold. After years of frequent contraction, those wrinkles can linger even after the muscles are at rest. • What is Botox? BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used to improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) in people 18 to 65 years of age for a short period of time (temporary).

.• Is the procedure painful? Discomfort is usually minimal and brief. Prior to injection, your physician may choose to numb the area with a cold pack or anaesthetic cream. The entire procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. .• When will I see results from a BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment? Within days, you may see a marked improvement in the moderate-tosevere frown lines between your brows. Lines continue to improve for up to 30 days, and results can last for up to 4 months. .• What will happen to the moderate to severe frown lines between my brows if I choose not to continue treatments? If you do not continue treatments, the moderateto-severe frown lines between your brows will gradually return to the way they looked before treatment. .• Do treatment results differ? Yes, individual results may vary. To get the best results, it’s important to go to an experienced doctor.

Introductory offer with Dr Lisa Neligan at Kingsbridge Private Hospital - 1 Area £199 - 2 Areas £299 - 3 Areas £350 Dr Neligan graduated from the University College Dublin medical school in 2001. She gained extensive experience working with patients in A&E, before training to become an anaesthetist and then a GP with the Royal College of Surgeons Dublin in 2009. Dr Neligan has worked as a GP in the NHS in Belfast ever since so you can be sure of excellent service with her wealth of experience.

To find out more information or to book an appointment please call 028 90 423200, email cosmetech@me.com or visit www.cosmetech.co.uk Cosmetech Clinics can be found at: Kingsbridge Private Hospital 811-815 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7GX Maypole Clinic, 5-7 Shore Road, Holywood, BT18 9XH Chelsea Private Clinic, The Courtyard, 250 Kings Rd, London, SW3 5UE

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Eye on Events

THE WAY TO A JOURNALIST’S HEART... (1)

t’s hardly surprising that, when it comes to media gatherings, Diageo’s annual media party is a bit more popular with local hacks than some others. Normally held on the busy run-up to Christmas, the event shifted this year to mid-January and the excellent (relatively) new Sweet Afton bar & restaurant in Brunswick Street, where the event as hosted by the affable Jorge Lopes, Diageo’s Brazilian-born Northern Ireland chief.

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Not content with plying Belfast’s best with plenty of Diageo products – beers, gins, vodkas and whiskies of the best – the organising team decided to showcase the skills of The Brewers Project, the new venture down at Dublin’s St. James’s Gate Brewery which is turning out a steady steam of brand new products. And so, in the interests of making those who missed the event just a little envious, here’s the unique food and drink line-up that Diageo and Sweet Afton came up with........

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• Chicken Korma paired with the wonderful Hop House 13 Lager • Steamed Mussels with Smithwick’s Pale Ale • Traditional Irish Stew with Smithwick’s Blonde • Bacon Ribs with Smithwick’s Irish Ale • Oysters with Guinness Dublin Porter • Irish Cheeses with Guinness West Indies Porter

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(1) Richard & Brenda Buckley of Business Eye with Adrienne McGill of the NI Chamber of Commerce & Industry. (2) Gerry Lennon (left) of Visit Belfast with Diageo’s Jorge Lopes and Bill Penton of Penton Publications. (3) Diageo’s Jorge Lopes. (4) Anne McMullan (Visit Belfast) and Pier Morrow (Belfast City Council). (5) Graeme Cousins (Belfast Vibe) and Sonia Armstrong (Ulster Business). (6) Paula Gracey (Sunday Life) Bill Penton and Pamela Ballentine. (7) Barra Best (BBC), Emma Fitzpatrick (Cool FM), Ellen Mc Lean (Cool FM) & Ciaran Barnes from Sunday Life.

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Eye on Cover Story

BARCLAYS... Bank Targets SME Market Barclays might bank 500 or so SME businesses here, but the bank’s Head of Corporate Banking in Northern Ireland, Adrian Doran admits that they’re better known for a different type of banking.

“P

eople always associate us with larger corporate banking” he says. “But we’ve been quietly growing our SME business banking operation here over the last few years, and it’s fair to say we feel the time is right to accelerate what we’re doing and attract a much broader range of business customers.” Barclays reckons that it has a couple of clear selling points to put in front of those potential customers. “We’re part of one of the world’s largest banking groups and a major player in the UK market. We have lots of experience in the SME market across the UK , so we’re well equipped to support this market in Northern Ireland. “We think our range of digital technology is a major advantage for us. We can offer our customers the full range of traditional products and services, whilst also providing other more advanced products, such as our recently launched Innovation Finance loan, designed for fast growing enterprises and partially guaranteed by the European Investment Fund.” The Barclays top team at its Donegall Square North headquarters has been boosted by the arrival last year of John Mathers, an experienced former Bank of Ireland Business Banker and the man who will head the Barclays charge towards more SME customers. The bank has had a presence in Northern Ireland for 20 years or so, and it has steadily expanded its activities and customer base since those early days. “In the past our growth has been largely on the back of working with large corporates

here, but the fastest growing part of our operation today is our SME business. We can support every size of business in Northern Ireland, from start-ups to PLCs. “I don’t think the market is aware that we offer banking facilities to businesses of all sizes, and that’s an important message that I’m keen to get across. Our goal now is to make sure that as many local businesses as possible know about Barclays and what we can offer. ” “We’re in the fortunate position where we’ve the capacity to be out talking to a lot of SMEs and we’re able to move quickly. We might be a big bank globally, but we’re pretty quick on our feet at a local level,” adds John Mathers, whose role as Corporate Development Director puts him in charge of new client acquisition for Barclays in Northern Ireland. “Some customers are telling us that we’re a fresh alternative to some of the established players in our local market .” he says. “Customers are seeing the digital offering we have, and the fact that we’re very well placed to help expanding local businesses. In addition we support many local companies with operations in GB or further afield”. Both Mathers and Adrian Doran agree that the whole nature of SME business banking has changed forever. “It used to be all about the branch network, with smaller businesses dealing directly with their local branch manager. But that’s all changed,” says John Mathers. “They’re much more likely to work online as well as with a local relationship manager and that’s exactly how we do it here at Barclays.” The bank isn’t short on innovative ideas

Eye on Cover Story

and is currently piloting two new products which are likely to be of interest to SMEs in Northern Ireland. It has just announced a new cash collection service for its cash-heavy business customers. The new service, which will be free for collections of £5,000 and above, offers customers a security vehicle to transport their deposits and enables them to book a collection time online from their mobile or desktop. Barclays is also currently piloting new technology which allows its business customers to avoid cashing cheques at a branch. Instead using mobile cheque imaging, customers can take an image of a cheque using the Barclays Mobile Banking app on their smartphone, and the cheque will be automatically sent for clearing - clever stuff, and an almost certain winner for timepoor small business managers. “These are all innovations coming from significant investment we’ve made at a UK level, and we benefit from being able to offer them to our customers here in Northern Ireland. We offer the exact same services in Belfast that you would get if you were banked by Barclays in Birmingham or Bristol,” adds Adrian Doran. When it comes to the profile of the Northern Ireland SME sector, John

Mathers says that Barclays is keen to work with businesses right along the growth curve and bring its specialist knowledge across different sectors. “We’re already working with a number of companies which have traditionally found it harder to get bank support, such as high growth tech companies and university spin outs” he says. “In short, we are keen to support the ambitions of Northern Ireland’s businesses, whether large or small companies.” One live example is Newry-based Statsports, the highly innovative local company behind the Viper pod systems, slotted into sports jerseys and used to monitor the training and in-match performance and key stats of professional sportsmen and women. Statsports’ customers include Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Juventus and the England and Ireland rugby teams to name but a few. Barclays helped to get the company started in business with a loan in the darkest days of the credit crunch in 2008. The company now employs over 40 people and was recently a finalist in the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. “We can also tap into high level Barclays sector specialists at a national level. Just recently, we were working with an aerospace firm here in Northern Ireland, and

we connected into the experience and expertise of the head of our aerospace team, who used to work for Rolls Royce and could talk knowledgably about the trends and opportunities in that sector. That type of industry knowledge can be very valuable for our customers.” Adrian Doran is clear about what makes Barclays different. “That’s one of the first questions we get asked when we’re out talking to potential customers,” he smiles. “We believe we have a strong offering in terms of our technology, we’ve got a wealth of expertise throughout our group and we combine that with a local office here in Belfast that can connect with our UK and international network. Our relationship model is at the heart of everything we do and that’s one of the things our customers value. “Northern Ireland has been a good news story for Barclays. We kept on growing our operation here right through the recession and we expect this to continue in the years ahead. It’s fair to say we used to be seen as a niche player in Northern Ireland, but we believe there’s no reason why we can’t become a Big 4 type player in this market. It’s all about new customers - we want to support the ambitions of local companies, helping them grow and succeed.”

One local SME to benefit from a £675,000 financing package from Barclays Bank is the ‘YoggieBerrie’ brand, set up by barrister turned entrepreneur Gavan Wall, His company opened its first frozen yoghurt (fro-yo), ice cream and coffee house on the Antrim Road in north Belfast. The funding also assisted him with the opening of a new Subway franchise on the Springfield Road, Belfast. The Belfast businessman also owns three Spar and four Subway outlets around the city. “We saw a gap in the market for a new business venture in north Belfast and initially explored an ice cream theme. This then developed into a coffee house, frozen yoghurt and ice cream business. We knew we wanted to create something really different and fun, and have something for everyone, where everyone could have a good time and so the YoggieBerrie brand was born. “We met with several banks but it was Barclays which really bought into what we were trying to create and had a clear understanding of our specific needs. Their support on the financial side of the business meant we were able to give 100% commitment to the artistic process and shop fit-out. We have been delighted with how well the partnership has worked so far and look forward to working together closely in the future as we roll out the YoggieBerrie brand across Northern Ireland”

Eye on Events

COLOURFUL YEAR AHEAD FOR TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTRE The Titanic Exhibition Centre continues to go from strength to strength and is looking forward to a year of growth in 2016, with 15 shows already secured.

he new venue, which is managed and marketed by a team with considerable experience in the conference and exhibition industry, has successfully attracted 15 local & national events for 2016, including Festival of Colours, Belfast Telegraph Holiday World, IFEX, Food for the Soul Fesitval, Belfast Film and Comic Com, with more in the pipeline up to 2019. Tim Husbands MBE, Titanic Belfast’s Chief Executive, commented, “We have had a very successful first few months with the launch of the Titanic Exhibition Centre and are looking forward to 2016. With 15 shows lined up already, including significant repeat business, we are pleased that the Titanic Exhibition Centre is playing a key role in maintaining Belfast’s position as a leading events and exhibitions destination.” Penton Exhibitions Limited’s Wedding Journal Show (January 2016 and September 2016) and Self Build Ireland’s Love Your Home (February 2016) & Improve your Home Show (October 2016) are both set to host its events again at the Titanic Exhibition Centre, following highly successful exhibitions in 2015.

Tim Husbands, Titanic Exhibition Centre Chief Executive is pictured with Nisha Tandon from Festival of Colours and Brian Corry, Self Build Ireland as the Titanic Exhibition Centre.

Managing Director of Self Build Ireland, Clive Corry said, “We were in at the beginning of this exciting project and it has greatly exceeded our expectations. Our first event in October was well up in both exhibitor and visitor numbers. Our biggest show comes next – SelfBuild & Improve Your Home – with 250 exhibitors, takes place from 12 – 14 February and our target is to hit 20,000 visitors – from architects to builders – Home Improvers, DIY enthusiasts to self-builders – there is something for everyone. The space inside the building is awe inspiring. It is easy to get to and to find and todays vibrant Belfast is all around. How could you beat that?”

Wynn Penton, Director of Penton Exhibitions Limited said: “We are delighted to host The Wedding Journal Show at the Titanic Exhibition Centre again in 2016! We were delighted to move to this vibrant city centre location, which brings a natural footfall! Our show was the first at the new and exciting venue, which was successfully transformed into a wedding wonderland with 10,000 visitors across the weekend! We are very much looking forward to hosting our winter show at Titanic Exhibition Centre.” The 6,000 square metre venue is proving popular with event organisers as it provides space for exhibitions, community and sporting events for 3,000

visitors and large scale banquets for more than 3,000 visitors. Titanic Belfast is responsible for the sales and management of the Titanic Exhibition Centre and offers it as a stand-alone venue or in conjunction with facilities at Titanic Belfast and SS Nomadic. The team, including newly appointed Melissa Crossey who has over seven years’ experience in the MICE industry, are promoting the new venue to local, national and international event organisers. This includes promotion at International CONFEX, London and IMEX in Frankfurt, alongside partners Visit Belfast, who provide a wider destination message. For more information visit, www.titanicexhibitioncentre.com.

Eye on Charity

SPORTING STARS COME OUT FOR PADDY WALLACE FUND BALL The Paddy Wallace Fund for Autism held its first official Christmas Ball at Titanic Belfast during December.

he fund has been set up by former Ireland and Ulster rugby star Paddy Wallace and his wife Tina following the success of last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Testimonial dinner, and aims to raise awareness of autism and support of families and children awaiting diagnosis or who have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum. The star-studded event

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featured well-known sporting guests including Rory McIlroy, Michael Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill, Tommy Bowe, Stephen Ferris, Iain Henderson, Darren Cave, Stuart Olding, Les Kiss, and Mickey Harte. For further details on the Fund visit www.paddywallacefundforautism.com, and keep up-to-date with its developments on Facebook (/PaddyWallaceAutismFund) and Twitter (@PWAutismFund).

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(1) John Hart, David Poots and Chris Milligan of Pinsent Mason with Holly Lyons of Arthur Cox. (2) Cora & Mark Regan, 3fiveTwo Group . (3) Paddy Wallace & Rory McIlroy. (4) Paddy & Tina Wallace . (5) Neil & Louise Hopkins . (6)Robert Calvert (Calvert Office Equipment) with Peter Lunn & Graham Cox (Kyocera). (7) Ian & Claire Lancashire .

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Eye on Agri Food

A Tasty Food And Drink Menu Will Boost NI’s Economy Says Michele Shirlow, Chief Executive, Food NI

he Year of Food and Drink is now up and running and was launched at an industry breakfast held during last month’s Breakfast Month, the first of 12 themes which will help celebrate our fantastic food and drink. More than 200 industry leaders enjoyed a healthy breakfast and were briefed about what is being planned. We are now focusing on the February theme and celebrating all things local. I am confident that this immensely exciting year-long campaign will deliver positive benefits for food and drink, hospitality and tourism here. While Tourism NI is driving Year of Food and Drink, huge opportunities for other industries are now beginning to take shape. Food NI is spearheading a series of initiatives for the industry. Several major retailers, for example, have already pledged to provide greater shelf space for local producers and to help in promoting their products. Tesco, for instance, is putting £500,000 into a year-long campaign to promote our food and drink, an initiative that will benefit many of our rapidly growing cluster of smaller and artisan businesses. Asda is also offering opportunities to smaller business through a special training initiative. Many hotels,

especially Hastings Hotels, and restaurants are now listing more local food and drink on their menus. They will help to create awareness among local diners of the outstanding taste and quality of our produce. BBC Good Food Show, one of the UK industry’s events, is coming to Belfast for the first time ever. It will be in the Waterfront Hotel in October and will offer unprecedented promotional and sales opportunities for local companies. This event will follow the Food Pavilion at Balmoral Show in May, which looks likely to be bigger and better than ever. A unique Taste of Ulster artisan shop is open at Belfast International Airport and doing great business. And Belfast City Airport is also promoting our food and drink. There will be a series of major announcements soon that will excite the food and hospitality industries by supporting the work of Tourism Northern Ireland and Food NI and Tourism Ireland in spreading the message about our food and drink here and overseas. We are working with our cadre of talented chefs to harness the products to develop Northern Ireland’s growing reputation as a global centre of original dishes that will also increase our appeal to tourists and other visitors. We hope to see a great many

restaurants and hotels across the region highlighting our food and drink on their menus. Many international chefs have already expressed interest in being involved in the year. The focus on hospitality could also lead to a review of some of the obstacles to the industry’s growth such as VAT and current licensing laws. Initiatives are needed to help improve margins across the industry. Showcasing and promoting the breadth and quality of what’s readily available here for local people and visitors to boost sales is, of course, what our Year of Food and Drink is all about. We will be telling people here and abroad about the products and the enterprising and creative people behind them….and also encouraging and challenging consumers to opt for more local food and drink. As well as boosting sales of food

and drink in Northern Ireland for smaller firms and artisans, the campaign will also seek to assist smaller businesses in particular to explore sales abroad and especially in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, still our most important export markets. A substantial rise in business to these two huge markets could have a profound impact on the local economy and especially in rural communities. It’s worth remembering that the UK currently imports food and drink worth £40 billion annually from abroad. Greater sales could result in more jobs across Northern Ireland. It’s going to be an immensely exciting and very rewarding year for Northern Ireland. We are keen to encourage all sectors to embrace the initiative and get involved in an ambitious campaign that will surely benefit the wider economy.

Eye on Agri Food

LUCA BRINGS FLAVOURS FROM TURIN TO PORTAFERRY Peppup Sauces in Portaferry was shortlisted in the recent UTV/Business Eye Business Awards. Sam Butler talked to company founder Italian born Luca Montorio about the artisan company’s future plans.

uca Montorio is quick to admit that being shortlisted in the UTV/Business Eye Awards has given his artisan enterprise a “fantastic boost”. He has since seen orders for his three-strong range of table sauces placed by the Spar retail chain here and expects further deals soon with major retailers. Dealing with top supermarkets shouldn’t be a problem for the enterprising Italian now living with wife Liz and two young sons in Portaferry. The first business for his gourmet ketchups, which are based on authentic Italian roasted peppers and tomatoes, was placed by Booths, the leading supermarket chain in England’s North West. Peppup is probably the only artisan enterprise here to win its first significant business outside ahead of the local market. This was in 2015. Deals with independent retailers and up-market delis here

soon followed the remarkable breakthrough in England. “I realised that the growth needed to ensure the company’s success could only come by focusing on retailers in Britain and this led me to approach a number including Booths in Preston. I contacted the buyer to pitch for business, offering to send samples and to meet him. I was delighted when an initial order followed the sampling. Repeat business has followed. I’ve also organised tasting sessions at the retailer’s stores in Lancashire. “The business gave me a tremendous boost and strengthened my conviction that the sauces could be successful because of their rich flavours,” he says. Luca grew up in Turin in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, famed for its peppers and tomatoes in tasty dishes. Turin is also the home of slow food and Terre Madre. Peppup was formed in 2013 to create innovative table sauces and followed a move to Portaferry. Both Luca and Liz are academic researchers specialising in natural sciences, biology and the marine environment. They met while studying at Sterling University in Scotland and have since held posts in the Shetland Islands, Denmark and Vietnam. Originally from London, Liz now works at Queen’s University’s marine laboratory in Portaferry. The original idea to start making ketchup came while Luca was watching an edition of television’s popular Apprentice series. “One of the tasks set for the contenders was to develop and market condiments. This gave me an idea to use my experience in Italy to create new and richer flavoured table sauces,” he adds.

The products are based on original recipes developed by Luca and influenced by his upbringing in Turin, where his father, Walter, and mother, Sandra, still live. His mother, a talented graphic artist, weighed it to create the company’s identity and distinctively colourful label. “What sets our table sauces apart is the rich flavour that comes from roasted peppers. I’ve kept the ingredients to a minimum to ensure the flavour of the peppers is paramount. A key objective for me was to create a new table sauce that didn’t compromise on taste. The sauces, which have gained UK Great Taste awards, are authentic and versatile. They can be used to flavour any dish, or enjoyed on their own. All three sauces are also gluten-free. “Apart from roasted peppers and tomatoes, the only other ingredients are sugar, salt and vinegar. I’ve also a reduced salt sauce to meet a developing market trend. The brand is all

about flavour, with roasted peppers the main ingredient. I didn’t want to put any water or thickening in it but kept it as concentrated as possible,” he says. Peppup is a real family enterprise that has engaged Liz and their two children, nine-year old Oliver and Dante, aged five. It was Oliver who came up with Peppup, the company’s name. “We were batting around names over the kitchen table when Oliver came up with Peppup, pepper and ketchup,” Luca explains. What do his Italian family and friends think of the new sauces? “They really love them. I’d aim to be exporting the sauces to Italy with its love for quality artisan foods with provenance and outstanding taste. However my focus at the moment is on promoting the brand and creating an awareness of Peppup in Northern Ireland and Great Britain as a tasty option. I see my longerterm future in product innovation, developing original products. I’ve got some new ideas in mind.”

Eye on Agri Food

Tasty Deal In Britain For Home Baker Sam Butler talked to Anna Taggart of Yummy Bakes NI in Newtownabbey about her successful artisan bakery.

ome baker Anna Taggart recently secured initial first business in Britain for her award winning bake-off shortbread. She’s now supplying the product to Sodexo, one of the world’s biggest and most successful foodservice corporation. Winning business with the British operation of this global industry leader is a remarkable achievement and a huge endorsement of the quality of the shortbread she hand crafts under Yummy Bakes NI, the artisan enterprise she set up after a career of almost 30 years with UTV and then in healthcare. Anna’s interest in baking and the recipes she is using for shortbread and other biscuits as well as scones, cinnamon wheels and cakes owe much to the influence of her late mother, Betty Macklin, who ran a popular café in the Fortwilliam area of north Belfast for many decades. “My mission in starting the artisan bakery was to fuse together the uncompromised values of traditional Northern Irish home baking with the modern convenience of a ready-to-bake product,” she says. What also helped to encourage Sodexo to respond positively to Anna’s pitch was her success in winning a UK Great Taste award for her richly flavoured shortbread. “I am absolutely delighted to have won business with Sodexo, my first sales contract in Britain,” she says. “And with one of the biggest names in foodservices. The home bakery sector remains much more significant in Northern Ireland than in Britain. There’s a recognition there that Northern Ireland now offers a wide range of home bakery products. I am sure that this also contributed to my success,” she adds.

Anna is also quick to acknowledge the advice provided by Levercliffe, the UK food consultancy, in helping to set up the contact with Sodexo and to get her ready to make a successful pitch for business. The link up with Levercliffe was arranged through an Invest NI programme for speciality food companies here. She subsequently submitted samples to the buyer responsible for bakery products. “The buyer really loved the taste and texture of the shortbread and subsequently placed an order’” she continues. Established in April 2012, Yummy Bakes has developed a strong customer base throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for a broad range of artisan bake-off products including home-baked scones, cakes and a range of biscuits and cookies. She started the business as sole baker, packer and delivery driver of home baked goods to cafes around Northern Ireland. “I left the job in healthcare because I saw a gap in the market for quality traditional home baking and decided it was time to share my mother’s recipes and to introduce traditional Irish home baking to the frozen, baked goods sector. I wanted to develop products that used only the best quality ingredients lovingly baked to provide rich flavours, a taste of luxury,” she explains. Over the past few years the company has won a series of awards across its product range from influential bodies including the Best Food Service Product at the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association Awards (NIFDA) for her home baked biscuits. The NIFDA endorsement followed IFEX awards for the Best Food

Anna Taggart.

“ I left the job in healthcare because I saw a gap in the market for quality traditional home baking and decided it was time to share my mother’s recipes and to introduce traditional Irish home baking to the frozen, baked goods sector. I wanted to develop products that used only the best quality ingredients lovingly baked to provide rich flavours, a taste of luxury.” Product - North and South Ireland. The award winners were traditional shortbread and flakemeal biscuits. Her aim is to make home baking easy. Over the past year, Anna has created an impressive portfolio and won sales at host of cafes and coffee shops across the province. Her products are also to be found at all three airports – Belfast International, George Best Belfast City and City of Derry Airport, a remarkable testimony to the quality of the products.

www.acti-snack.com Kestrel Foods Ltd., Unit 8 Carn Drive, Carn Industrial Estate, Craigavon, BT63 5WJ, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)28 3835 0934

Fax: +44 (0)28 3836 1116

Eye on Agri Food

2016

Year of Food & Drink

Brian Gillan, Head of Business Banking, First Trust Bank

The Year of Food and Drink 2016 is a very welcome opportunity to promote our culinary fare to tourists and to reinforce the provenance credentials of our food and drink manufacturers, helping them to grow their exports in the longer term.

t First Trust Bank we hope that it also becomes the launch platform for a more concerted and sustained promotion of the Northern Ireland agri-food sector to global markets and the ideal entrée for the establishment of the much anticipated food marketing body for the region. You don’t have to go too far to see the distinct advantages of such a body. Our near neighbours in the Republic of Ireland and Scotland have been reaping the benefits of their efforts for many years and we need to catch-up.

Just like us, they are blessed with some of the world’s most amazing natural resources. Our land, our water, our seas – all provide the necessary raw materials for quality food production and time and time again we have proven that we can rival the best in the world. The integrity of our supply chain is another key ingredient that we share, as is the wealth of quality food and drink producers, both large and small, that we now have. Using a similar platform under the banner of ‘Scotland Food & Drink’, in 2012 our Celtic cousins grew the industry’s turnover to £13.9 billion – the largest increase in turnover of all Scottish growth sectors, even out-performing oil and gas that year. More recently, Bord Bia’s latest figures showed a 4% increase in exports for 2014 to reach a record high of almost €10.5 billion - the fifth consecutive year of export growth. The role of a focused and well-resourced export marketing strategy delivered by a single export marketing body is recognised as the main ingredient of their success. While we are, relatively speaking, arriving late to the table, The Year of Food and

Drink proves we now have a newfound hunger to exploit our potential at a time when the opportunities are truly global. At First Trust Bank we expect this year to be a great success but hope that it is only the appetiser for a full blown and well-resourced export food marketing strategy – one that is delivered by a single body which can take our inherent strengths, package them and present the ‘Northern Ireland Food and Drink’ stall to global markets. Already working closely with a number of local food companies across Northern Ireland we know that they are excited about the prospects of the Year of Food and Drink and will be embracing it as part of their own marketing plans. We have invited a number of our customers, both large and small to share their views of the Year and what they hope to achieve through it. We hear from well know potato brand, Wilson’s Country and the multi award winning purveyor of fine meat - Hannan Meats. We also hear from local granola producers, Just Live a Little, who will no doubt be maximising the first theme served up in the showcase Year – Breakfast Month.

Eye on Agri Food Angus Wilson - Wilson’s Country

2016

Year of Food & Drink Employing over 70 people across its 6 acre site in Co Armagh, Wilson’s Country is one of Ireland’s best known potato brands. Angus Wilson started the company from his family farm at Richhill in the 1980s and now processes over 600 tonnes of potatoes a week. Working with 20 growers, Wilson’s Country supplies the retail and food service sector across Ireland. It’s been a challenging 18 months across the food industry but Angus cites innovation as a key enabler for growth and is looking forward to the 2016 Year of Food and Drink.

“W

ilson’s Country has been going for almost 30 years and as well as providing own-brand and branded Wilson’s Country range potatoes to the retail market, we also provide ownbrand and peeled products to the food service sector including a number of 5-star hotels. By their nature, potatoes are seasonal, meaning we handle up to 30 different varieties in a year – from Comber to Queens, it’s never a dull moment on site as we respond to changing tastes and demands! It was a busy 2015 for us and a key highlight for the firm was our investment in an advanced camera grading line system. The sophisticated technology means we can quickly identify and sort various grades of potatoes which contributes to the overall efficiency of our factory. We also launched some exciting new prepared products which have been performing well and we plan to build upon this growth in 2016. A key trait agri-food companies need to have is to be able to offer consumers high quality, convenience products. That’s

particularly true when working with what is often viewed as a traditional product. You need to ensure customers continue to appreciate how versatile, nutritious and delicious potatoes are! With this in mind we have joined with other local potato growers, processors and packers in a campaign called ‘The Mighty Spud’ with the slogan @MightyNotHumble to encourage consumers to rethink the versatility of the local potato. As well as this campaign, part and parcel of this process is continual investment in innovation. We have a very talented NPD team here who are constantly looking at new ways to offer consumers convenience. As a country we are naturally innovative and agri-food companies here have shown that they can quickly adapt and be flexible for customers. At Wilson’s Country, working with our growers across Ireland we often need to change tack to keep up with the

weather, seasonal flavours and client needs. As a region, we are not only known for our potatoes but due to our mix of sunshine and rainfall we also benefit from superior grass growing abilities – this is good for the meat and dairy producers as well as vegetable growers. We are thrilled that 2016 is the Year of Food and Drink in Northern Ireland. As well as supporting the industry ‘Mighty Spud’ campaign, we are also putting together a programme of activity along with our customers, including events and sampling to make sure we get out and about as much as possible to meet with potential customers and celebrate with existing ones. The potato is one of the most versatile vegetables Northern Ireland has to offer, so we are looking forward to joining in on a range of monthly themes across the year including Dairy in June, Meat in August and Christmas and Premium Foods in December!”

Eye on Agri Food Peter Hannan - Hannan Meats

2016

Year of Food & Drink

Peter Hannan is the founder and owner of Hannan Meats, a Moira based company which produces and supplies meat products to restaurants, hotels and retailers across the UK, Ireland, and Continental Europe. Its on-site shop, The Meat Merchant, serves over 2,500 people a week. Employing 35 people at their premises in Moira, the firm is looking forward to the Year of Food and credits its talented workforce for the opportunities that lie ahead.

“A

lthough we were established in 1991, when I look back, 2012 was the year that thrust us into prominence. It’s the year that we were named Supreme Champion at the Guilds Fine Food Great Taste Awards and launched us into the public arena where we have been playing ever since. When you look at the plethora of awards Northern Ireland’s food industry has won – from Great Taste Awards to Blas na hÉireann trophies – you begin to get a sense of how truly talented our agri-food sector is. We benefit from having stand out raw materials and a climate that lends itself

well to producing them. Over the last couple of years, you can also see how confident the sector is becoming. As more people believe in themselves and the more awards we win - the more other people and companies join in. I think another trait that sets Northern Ireland’s food industry apart, is our desire and ability to collaborate - and that’s something to be applauded. From large to medium companies to startups and artisan producers, everyone wants to help the other out. The way I see it, today’s smaller firms have the potential to become the leaders of tomorrow - and we want to play our part in fostering a collaborative environment to nurture this growth. Northern Ireland’s pool of creative agri-food talent also helps us stand out. One of the highlights of my career has been the wonderful people I have met, from restaurateurs to producers and retailers. Hannan Meats has very much a family feel to it. Our business is about the staff we have and ensuring they are happy at their work and take pride in it. In the Year of Food and Drink, we see endless opportunities for growth. Currently we are speaking with

11 different companies with a view to supplying them, and are also looking to export further across Europe as well as Hong Kong and Dubai. When I think about our growth prospects, I turn back again to the ethos of the people we employ. For us, the attention we give to detail is the difference between good and great. As I sit on the board of Food NI, I have to say I’m looking forward to everything planned as part of the Year of Food and Drink 2016 celebrations! The scale of what we are doing is quite unique, and I know there are some exciting initiatives planned that have yet to be announced! What is key for us as an industry is to ensure that we capture and cultivate the momentum from the Year of Food and Drink celebrations to ensure a legacy is created – one that we will nurture for years to come. That brings me back to the spirit of collaboration that exists in the food sector – everyone in the industry is pushing forward in the one direction, so hopefully we can all now push forward together in the one place.”

Eye on Agri Food Jill Crawford - Just Live a Little

2016

Year of Food & Drink

Jill Crawford and her husband David, established artisan granola company ‘Just Live a Little’ five years ago and run the company from their home and premises in Portaferry, Co Down where they employ 4 full time members of staff. In that time, the company has gone from strength to strength in both the food service and retail market, and export as far away as Dubai and Hong Kong.

“T

he last five years has been an incredible journey for us and we are now looking forward to what the Year of Food and Drink 2016 has to offer. We started out making granola in our oven at home and selling it in sandwich bags at St George’s Market in Belfast. Our big break came in 2011 when Howard Hastings, the owner of the Hastings Group of hotels, visited our stall and tasted our product. Within the space of one meeting with their chef, we became the sole cereal supplier to Hastings hotel chain and went from producing a few kilos a week to a few hundred kilos. We now produce 6 different types of granola, 2 granola bars and 3 handy ‘on the go’ portion pots.

2015 was a very special year for us. In the last quarter, we created some exciting new business opportunities abroad and are now exporting as far afield as Germany and Taiwan. It’s odd to think someone as far away as Asia is sitting at their kitchen table eating something which started being made in ours! We have also seen steady growth in the retail sector where we now supply Tesco, Asda, SuperValu, Mace and Spar as well as many independent stores. I think it’s the superior quality of produce that sets Northern Ireland’s food industry apart. We source as much of our raw materials as possible locally, including our oats and our apple sauce which we get from Armagh. I think companies here are also very innovative and can react to changing markets and consumer needs very quickly – this is particularly true of smaller companies who have greater room for flexibility. We ourselves are meeting changing needs and tastes with some very exciting products in the pipeline! I think this attitude of innovation to overcome problems and meet demand, especially on the artisan side, also lends itself well to exporting, and it’s

something we should shout about more. Looking ahead, we ourselves see huge potential to build on the growth we experienced at the end of last year and hope to start working in the Middle Eastern market soon and to begin working with a GB retailer. It’s set to be a very exciting 2016 for us; we will be launching two new granolas into the market – A No Added Sugar and a Gluten Free granola variety – both meeting a key growing trend for shoppers. Obviously this year holds added excitement given we are celebrating the Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink 2016. As January’s theme was ‘Breakfast’ we got off to a flying start working with various retailers to showoff our products across the province. It’s a fantastic programme and gives companies like us the opportunity to speak more with other suppliers, local producers, retailers and of course customers! We plan to do more sampling and marketing throughout the year and hopefully plan a few surprises along the way – the Year of Food and Drink is certainly going to add more ‘bite’ to our 2016 plans!”

Eye on Agri Food

A Year-Long Celebration of Local Food and Drink Businesses S

As we enter the Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink (NIYoFD) 2016, one retailer is looking back on its last two decades as Northern Ireland’s number one retail champion of local produce and ahead to the next jam-packed year of food and drink focus for the Province.

ince 1997, Tesco Northern Ireland has put local producers at the heart of its operations and is a proud and vocal supporter of indigenous food and drink businesses. 2016 marks a milestone year for Tesco Northern Ireland – reaching a staggering £0.5bn of investment in local produce from its more ‘humble’ beginnings of just £50m in 1996 – a fitting achievement as we enter the highly anticipated NIYoFD. For two decades, it has been steadfast in its support of local producers and was the first major retailer in Northern Ireland to do so. As a result, it boasts a considerable and long-established contribution to the overall economy of the Province, the various micro economies in agri-dependent regions and the continued growth of Northern Irish food and drink businesses. Seen by many suppliers as the gateway to growth for their business, Tesco Northern Ireland not only helps propel the Province’s most beloved brands to a national stage, it also deeply invests in and nurtures young start-up businesses, helping them bring their products to mass market by facilitating access to consumers through in-store sampling and exhibition opportunities. Tesco’s commitment to these brands, both known and unknown, will reach new levels in 2016, with the retailer committing to a packed schedule of activity in celebration of the NIYoFD, which will see consumer exposure to local products heightened. Profiling the quality and rich heritage of Northern Ireland’s food and drink offering is of prime importance to Tesco. Having long shared and voiced the same objectives as those behind the Year of Food and Drink initiative, the retailer is confident that

Tesco’s involvement and complementary programme of activities will make a splash, both for its suppliers and customers. Investing in the future The Tesco Northern Ireland Artisan programme, in particular, has been credited by many, (stakeholders and businesses themselves), as the perfect platform for young and ambitious brands to bring their products to mass market. Consisting of in-store “pop-up shop” opportunities and support through the buying process, the Artisan programme helps fledgling businesses get their products in front of consumers and hopefully, on the shelves. A popular aid for new businesses, these pop-up shops will be ramped up during the Year of Food and Drink and form a core element of Tesco’s fit-to-burst activity plan.

Eye on Agri Food

Eight years of Taste Northern Ireland A focal point of the Northern Ireland events calendar, Tesco’s Taste Northern Ireland festival will be back for its eighth year and, within the Year of Food and Drink, promises to be the best and largest celebration of local food. An unrivalled platform for local suppliers to showcase their range of products, whether craft beers, iconic crisps or artisan cheeses, the Taste NI event has become synonymous with ‘local’ - drawing in 25,000 consumers from across Northern Ireland and beyond, over a three-day period, to celebrate the quality and range of food and drink produced in the Province. ‘Local’ truly has a huge emotional tag for the people of Northern Ireland, with most market towns cherishing their second and third generation food businesses including bakeries, butchers and distilleries – all of which have a long and proud history here.

Relationships at the heart of business Brendan Guidera, Tesco Northern Ireland’s Stores Director, said: “Our Newtownabbeybased buying, marketing and technical team understands what our customers want in Northern Ireland and so can help potential new suppliers and keen artisan producers shape and craft their products with the consumer in mind. We pride ourselves on the level of tailored support on offer to suppliers or those who want to become suppliers. “In addition to the quality of the products on our shelves, it is the strength of our relationships which are at the heart of our success. We are proud of the relationships we forge with suppliers. Many of our suppliers have been in partnership with us for 20 years. Long-term relationships provide certainty, which allow suppliers to continue to innovate and invest for future growth, a process that can take years to

produce commercially viable volumes. “Having good relationships with suppliers is crucial to our business. Our supply base is diverse and varies from suppliers with turnovers of less than £500k, to large international suppliers with turnovers of tens of millions of pounds. Irrespective of size and scale, we look to work with those who share our passion for Northern Ireland’s rich and enviable cache of local products.”

Eye on Agri Food

Arthur Richmond, SHS Group; Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell; Kevin Kingston, CEO of Danske Bank; and Michael Bell of NIFDA.

FOOD AND DRINK SECTOR THE FOCUS OF DANSKE ADVANTAGE EVENT Over 100 business people recently gathered at Titanic Belfast for a Danske Bank event focusing on the food and drink sector.

he event was part first of Danske’s ‘Advantage’ series and addressed the opportunities for growth in new markets and the challenges created by the weakness of the euro against the pound, the volatility of global commodity prices and

Barbara and Stuart Hughes from Hughes Craft Distillery with Tony McConnell and Richard Caldwell from Danske Bank.

fluctuating demand from core markets. Speakers included ETI Minister Jonathan Bell, NIFDA Director Michael Bell and SHS Group Finance Director Arthur Richmond. A panel discussion followed, with panel members Martin Hamilton, MD of Mash Direct, Gerry Maguire, MD of Linden Foods, Ciaran Mulgrew, MD of Niche Drinks and Robert McCullough, Head of Agribusiness at Danske Bank. Kevin Kingston, Chief Executive of Danske

Bank, said: “Food and Drink is a sector where Northern Ireland punches well above its weight and where the strength of our produce and the innovation of our food and drink companies is leading to success and recognition around the world. Danske Bank is committed to supporting the growth and success of our local food and drink producers and processors – from the large international businesses to our growing number of small and innovative artisan producers.”

Jill Crawford Just live a little, Mark Breen New Olive Company Ltd, Oonagh Murtagh, Danske Bank and Mark McConville Priory Press.

2015/16

www.henderson-group.com

Eye on Agri Food

“Continuous monitoring of market trends and supply & demand involves attention to analysis, risk management and outlook forecasting. The bulk of our buying is in dollars but last year the company saw more than 44% of its revenue come from Europe. Operating in different currencies is challenging but where possible we mitigate risk by locking in rates with the bank and buying forward contracts. As I see it, the role of finance is not simply efficiency, it is about effectiveness in business,” said Lorraine.

Financial Control Is A Key Ingredient For Success This year sees Portadown based Kestrel Foods blow out 20 candles on its birthday cake - so what is the key to success for the dried fruit, nuts and seeds business going strong for two decades? Lorraine McAfee, Financial Controller, sites an appetite for growth, attention to analysis and a sharp eye on finances.

estrel Foods kicked off the New Year with a bang by successfully securing a deal with Tesco to stock a new range of its fruit and nut snacks, estimated to be worth £130,000. The company, famous for its

Kestrel Foods imports the bulk of its products from Asia and the USA to create its signature Forest Feast premium dried fruit offering. The range offers the ultimate in luxury snacking or the perfect ingredient when cooking and baking.

Forest Feast and Acti-Snack brands, is at the forefront of the market for premium quality dried fruit and nuts and an example of a local company experiencing phenomenal global success. The role as Financial Controller for Kestrel Foods has changed considerably as the business has experienced significant growth year-on-year. The company’s global reach has meant its business operations have become increasingly complex and Lorraine’s role, more challenging. With exotic products ranging from mouth-watering mango to dried coconut, the company relies on importing the majority of its ingredients from the other side of the world. Coupled with a growth strategy focused on exporting, for Kestrel Foods planning is a virtue. Lorraine explains how the company’s annual business plan and budget process is a key mechanic for running the business successfully: “The financial role within the business isn’t simply accounting and number crunching. The

current environment, and the business’s response to it, is a key responsibility of the Financial Controller. Kestrel imports the bulk of its ingredients from the Far East and USA, whilst enjoying a customer base in over 30 international markets. This success brings with it lots of moving parts, with the finance team at the heart of strategic planning.” Streetwise investment With the successful launch of five lines of exotic Forest Feast ‘Street Food’ snack mixes in 2015, and more exciting product developments on the horizon, how does Kestrel Foods manage its financial performance and budget forecasting on a global scale? Operating on a global basis requires the ability to navigate changing regulatory and economic environments. One of the key challenges that a global operator such as Kestrel faces is the volatility of currency, something that is effectively outside of its control.

Planning for success Kestrel Foods is a familyrun business, which has had tremendous success across all of its brands. The company experienced growth of more than 33% over the last three years and it shows no signs of slowing down. It seeks to continue its positive trajectory with sales forecast to increase in 2016 by 11.5% and those plans appear to be on track. The company has just announced two exciting export wins, securing contracts with supermarket giant TJX in the US & Canada and Gustav Gerig supermarkets across Switzerland. “Our strategic plan is to further develop our product portfolio and enhance opportunities with new and existing customers. In 2015 we invested significantly in our state of the art roasting facility which now gives us the ability to manufacture in-house, allowing us to improve the competitiveness of our products and enhance their marketability,” concluded Lorraine. Kestrel Foods is a prime example of the innovation and energy in Northern Ireland’s agri-food sector. By adapting ‘local’ tastes from across the globe into their extensive range and continuing to push the boundaries, this company is a force to be reckoned with in the fruit and nut industry. One thing is for sure, nothing will be left to chance.

WORLD CLASS INNOVATION

www.forestfeast.com Kestrel Foods Ltd., Unit 8 Carn Drive, Carn Industrial Estate, Craigavon, BT63 5WJ, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)28 3835 0934

Fax: +44 (0)28 3836 1116

Eye on Agri Food

Quest For Greater Innovation In Food Sam Butler talked to Stephane Durand, director of the new Agri-Food Quest Competence Centre, about the centre’s support for innovation within the local agri-food industry.

tephane Durand is helping to create a bridge between food and drink companies, local universities and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) that will promote innovative products and processes for international markets. He’s the director of the AgriFood Quest Competence Centre, which is hosted by Queen’s University, and brings to the role a vast background in innovation with industry leaders including Moy Park, Dale Farm, Dunbia, Thompson Feeds and Devenish Nutrition who have an impressive track record of success in product and process innovation. He’s a graduate of Pierre & Marie Curie Paris University in chemistry and biochemistry and also has an MSc in Food Science and Technology from Montpellier University in France. “The centre was set up last May with a mission to grow the agri-food Industry in Northern Ireland through research and Innovation,” he says. “It’s fundamentally industry-led in that we are committed to working closely with local companies on projects involving the universities and AFBI that they believe will enhance their competitiveness and/or open new markets. “Our role is to make it easier for local food companies including the

small and medium sized business which are the backbone of the industry here to access the vast knowledge and expertise that is to be found within our two universities and AFBI. We will broker collaboration between the companies and academic experts. “Many smaller companies in particular tend to be reluctant to approach them because they really don’t know where to start. We help them by providing a signposting service and by setting up initial discussions about the support and guidance they require,” he adds. The centre, recommended by the Agri-Food Strategy Board in the Going for Growth action plan, has pinpointed five themes that it is keen to work with groups of local companies. The themes are Hygiene and Shelf life, Innovative Processing and Packaging, Innovative Products and Concepts, Safety and Traceability and Bi-Products and Sustainability. “Our strategic focus is on increasing the level of collaborative research activity to support the agri-food industry growth strategy as defined in Going For Growth; that is to grow the agri-business sector by 60 per cent by 2020 to £7 billion turnover. “The objective of this collaborative research and

innovation activity is to help grow a sustainable, profitable integrated agri-food supply chain in Northern Ireland. Ensuring the success of what is now our most important manufacturing industry, which already makes a £5 billion contribution to the local economy, requires much greater investment in innovative activity, including new product development, in both short and long-terms. “We aim to help in developing the agri-food industry research agenda through mapping the needs of the local industry based on Going for Growth’s strategic pillars; to Identify relevant science and technology experts who can provide solutions to these needs; and to facilitate partnership between research experts and industry to stimulate innovation and competitiveness.” This should help in building an improved and sustainable R&D infrastructure supporting the agri-food industry across Northern Ireland and contribute to the economic wellbeing of rural communities in particular. “We’ve received our first set of possible projects following an invitation to companies last year. The five themes cover the main areas most likely to produce projects from industry. “The initial pitch required groups of up to three companies to collaborate on developing innovative projects for evaluation by the centre’s nine-strong steering committee comprising six representatives from member

businesses and three from universities and AFBI,” he explains. The centre’s core funding for research projects, £6 million over five years, is being provided by Invest Northern Ireland as part of its support for Going for Growth. Member companies are also backing the initiative with support in-kind. It is also seeking to leverage additional research funding from sources such as the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, IntertradeIreland and from national and international sources such as Horizon2020 and other EU programmes. “The agri-food industry here has immense potential. It has a rich and fertile soil that’s ideal for grass-fed animals and the cultivation of a range of crops. Our pristine waters along our coastline, loughs and rivers already produce superb fish and seafood. We have a global reputation for safe and of high quality processes and products. Closer links between companies and university experts will lead stimulate new products, processes and business models that will ensure its long-term viability and sustainability.”

Eye on Agri Food

LINDEN FOODS... BUILDING ON SUCCESS

Elaine Willis - Head of Innovation & Business Development, Linden Foods.

It’s been another good year for Dungannonbased Linden Foods with further market growth and more awards success.

ow the meat processing company is aiming for more growth in 2016, Northern Ireland’s Year of Food & Drink. Linden rounded off 2015 by picking up the Green Company of the Year title at late November’s UTV Business Eye Awards in association with Flybe, another major achievement for a company in an industry not always renowned for its environmental credentials. Now the Dungannon company has moved into 2016 by successfully launching a new premium brand aimed at the international marketplace.

Turf & Clover features an exceptional range of Irish meat products with full provenance thanks to Linden’s integrated local supply chain. Part of the farming co-operative Fane Valley, Linden says that it has identified a gap in the market for a quirky international brand, and reckons that NI’s Year of Food & Drink offers an ideal opportunity to launch a high quality new range of meat products. “We are all very excited about our new international brand. We strategically chose the big Anuga Food Show in Cologne back in October with a record 160,000 trade visitors from over 192 countries, to be the perfect venue to launch our new brand concept and gauge industry reaction. The response to Turf & Clover was extremely positive. It was tremendously successful for us and by far our best show ever,” says Elaine Willis, Head of Innovation & Development at Linden Foods. “Visitors to the show were quick to identify with the messages underpinning the new range. Turf and Clover came about from our love of all things Irish - the rain, the soil, the grass, and our respect for the land and the knowledgeable people that nurture it and from our family of thousands of farmers and their honest and sustainable approach to land and beast. “The fact that our beef comes from exceptional breeding farms in Ireland with a supply base which is best in the world generated huge interest. In particular, for our extensive assortment of over 30 gourmet burgers and cut portion control steaks.” The new Turf & Clover portfolio includes master

butcher selected prime steak cuts such as mature, sirloin, rib eye, fillet, flat iron and pichana. Also complementing the brand are ready to grill ultimate steak burgers offering exceptional flavour, hand chosen lamb loin and full-flavoured lamb chops. The overall brand also includes the colourful Foggy Dew range of meals that have been inspired by creative trends across the four corners of the globe but with a distinctive Irish touch.

Eye on Agri Food

2016: A Year of Opportunity? The agri-food industry in Northern Ireland demonstrated remarkable resilience and a great determination to succeed during 2015. Significant progress was made by the industry on initiatives to improve productivity and overall efficiency, notwithstanding immensely challenging market conditions at home, in Europe and further afield, especially for key sectors such as dairy and beef. Encouragingly, during the year, food processors continued to invest in innovation, particularly in new product development for market opportunities identified both here and abroad.

ncouraging progress was made during the year in measures designed to strengthen the industry’s overall performance proposed in the Northern Ireland Executive’s Going for Growth strategic action plan to 2020. There was also some good news from China with the prospect of an opening of this market to local pork processors and there may be progress for beef processors in the year ahead. Canada has already lifted its ban on beef imports from Europe, including beef from Northern Ireland. The progress in 2015, and the underpinning investment in resources, presents a good platform for the year ahead. Success in 2016 will require a continuing focus on improving productivity, further investment in innovation and in the search for new business opportunities. The agri-food industry, which remains Northern Ireland’s largest, and a major contributor to the local economy especially in terms of sales abroad, has the experience, determination and skills to continue its growth trajectory in the year ahead. There will be further opportunities to build upon the significant contracts won by local food and drink companies, both large and small, in markets as diverse as the US, China and the Middle East. As we go into 2016, business with Great Britain remains strong and it makes good sense for processors, especially small and medium sized business and artisans, to sharpen their focus on our near marketplace during this year. The future for dairy farmers and

processors remains somewhat uncertain, especially in the short-term. A recent EU report suggested that the global market for dairy commodities and milk imports will grow 2.4 per cent annually to 2025 and that there will be a risk of “short-term material imbalances strongly affecting dairy market prices.” The report also indicated that milk prices would be likely to recover to moderate levels in the shortterm and that there are opportunities in the markets for cheese and milk powders. A major positive is that demand for good food will continue to offer opportunities as the global population reaches nine billion by 2050. While Northern Ireland is currently well placed to play its part in helping to meet this demand we need to be able to identify and come up with innovative products that a growing global population, particularly in Third World nations, will require. 2016 presents real opportunities for the industry. As well as continuing to focus on improving productivity, efficiency and innovation for new markets, producers, processors and retailers must work ever closer in the supply chain to identity new business opportunities and to come up with wholesome, tasty and safe products that consumers will want to buy and at prices that will ensure worthwhile margins for all links in the chain. Improving returns means harnessing developments in technology to strengthen performance. It also means the Northern Ireland Executive must continue to stand by the industry to promote and support innovation through much greater investment in R&D.

Francis Martin, Partner and Head of Food & Drink at BDO Northern Ireland.

“ The agri-food industry, which remains Northern Ireland’s largest, and a major contributor to the local economy especially in terms of sales abroad, has the experience, determination and skills to continue its growth trajectory in the year ahead.” Overall, agri-food is a local industry with immense potential in terms of its contribution to the economy and in the export of premium foods worldwide. Our farmers and processors have the experience and ability to surmount current and future challenges and to make an even greater contribution to future economic growth. 2016 Year of Food and Drink will showcase the expertise of our producers and the superb quality of our food and drink and will provide new business opportunities.

Supporting

Breakfast Month

www.henderson-group.com

Eye on Agri Food

Nigel Toasts Success With Beer-Fed Beef! Northern Ireland has a healthy record of successful farm innovation particularly in food and drink, retailing, construction and engineering. Sam Butler talked to Nigel Logan of Hillstown Farm in Ahoghill about the successful transformation of the family farm into an enterprising food processing, retailing and beer brewing business.

igel Logan and his family have created one of the most diversified, innovative and successful farm enterprises in Co. Antrim. Logan, a fourth generation farmer of almost 200 acres of rich pasture land between Randalstown and Ahoghill, has developed an enterprise that stretches from rearing grass-fed beef cattle and producing a range of quality meats to a micro brewery, farm shop, which opened its doors in 2008, and, most recently, a restaurant. He is also now considering a move into farmhouse cheese. The meat portfolio features unique Wagyu-style beef using beer produced in the on-farm micro-brewery. The richly flavoured beef was developed to create a premium product that would help to increase margins.

“The Wagyu-style meat is available in our farm shop and some other local outlets and restaurants. Our unique craft beer range has expanded to four, which are also now available in almost 150 off-licenses and bars across Northern Ireland. The bottle conditioned beers feature quirky names that reflect their farm roots, names such as Goat’s Butt Beer, Horny Bull Stout, Spitting Lama and Massey Red Ale. “We began brewing on the farm for our cattle in a Wagyu beer-fed beef project to offer a premium meat with a uniquely delicious flavour. Influenced by the Japanese experience, the beer relaxes the cows to produce a more tender and succulent piece of meat. We then decided to take this a stage further by creating in the microbrewery to produce craft beers,” he says. “The beers are brewed in a converted barn. It’s not automated. They are all hand crafted. It’s a brewery that we built ourselves and we sourced all the kit locally, re-using and a lot of old dairy equipment. We strive to use the best quality ingredients available to ensure outstanding flavours,” he continues. The family farm has been supplying beef, sheep meat and pork from rare breed pigs such as Gloucester Old Spots to the

public through a very successful farm shop. In addition, a skilled chef prepares fresh meat pies, pastries, desserts and soups to be enjoyed by the customers. Logan, a modest and unassuming entrepreneur, is understandably convinced that local is always best and tries to keep food miles to a minimum, with the farthest product being sourced from only 20 miles away! “We take ‘field to fork’ very seriously and are proud of our ability to trace our beef, lamb, pork and chicken from birth on the farm right through to being sold by our butchers or cooked in the restaurant,” he explains. “We have always been passionate about hand-crafted produce and strive to support local suppliers and to create employment. Our aim has been to build a community around us that shares every step of the journey. Everything is born and finished on the farm. We use mainly Aberdeen Angus and Shorthorn beef and dry age it for a minimum of 28 days. “My father, Francis, was a farmer and I was keen to continue the family business. When my father was running Hillside, we only kept beef cattle and pigs, but once I returned home from Greenmount Agricultural College at Antrim we decided to introduce sheep and suckler cows. “Difficulties in farming, including price volatility and BSE, led us to diversify by the creation of a farm shop to sell our meats. This has been a tremendous success with local people in particular. “At Hillstown Farm, we now rear beef cattle, sheep, pigs, chickens, goats and llamas. We produce traditional breed beef, lamb, pork from rare breed pigs, chicken and eggs for our butchery counter and restaurant. Logan is also understandably proud of a clutch of awards won by the business including UK Great Taste Awards for its rib eyen steaks and five Northern Ireland Pork Sausage Champion titles. It’s also been placed in the UK Top 10 for sausages. He’s an enthusiastic supporter of the annual Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, which he sees as a way to increase awareness of the contribution of farming to the local economy. “Farmers in Northern Ireland never seem to get enough credit for the excellent work they do and how well they rear their animals. Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend is a tremendous way to highlight this in a fun environment,” he adds. Overall Northern Ireland’s biggest industry has seen a host of innovators and entrepreneurs over the years. The extent of innovation that exists within the farming industry doesn’t usually receive the recognition that it deserves.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere Diageo Northern Ireland: proud supporters of Northern Ireland‘s Year of Food & Drink 2016

DRINK RESPONSIBLY The BAILEYS, GORDON’S, CAPTAIN MORGAN, SMIRNOFF, GUINNESS, SMITHWICKS, CARLSBERG and HARP words and associated logos are trade marks © Diageo 2016.

KATY BEST & CITY AIRPORT... FOLLOWING UP ON A VINTAGE YEAR 46

Eye on Travel 2015 might be a bit hard to beat for the management team at George Best Belfast City Airport.

ot only did passenger numbers come close to the airport’s record year in 2009, but the airport launched three new premium routes into the heart of Europe served by three different airlines. “There’s no doubt that it was a great year for us,” says the airport’s Commercial & Marketing Director, Katy Best. “Not only did we launch routes to three key European cities – Amsterdam, Barcelona and Brussels (from April of this year) – but we introduced three new leading airlines to the Northern Ireland marketplace.” Strictly speaking, one of them isn’t entirely new. Dutch airline KLM has made a successful return to Northern Ireland, having operated to Amsterdam from the International Airport in the past. But its new route out of Belfast City is already exceeding the airline’s expectations, according to Katy Best, especially when it comes to passengers connecting internationally at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. “Vueling is the largest operator at Barcelona Airport and they’re delivering a high level of inbound visitors into Belfast, and we’re also delighted to have Brussels Airlines, part of the Lufthansa Group, coming on board in the Spring with the new direct route to Brussels.” It’s important, she says, that the Northern Ireland business community supports the new airlines and new flights into Europe. “The business community here has long demanded better direct access into Europe. That’s exactly what we’re providing with these new routes. But increasing frequencies and attracting more new routes depends on the level of support the flights receive,” she warns. “There’s no doubt that Belfast has moved up the rankings when it comes to route decisions, and that’s due to the rapid growth in tourism here.” Katy Best is quick to emphasise that it’s not all about new routes and new airlines at Belfast City. The airport’s biggest operator,

Flybe, reported a 10% increase in passenger numbers between 2014 and 2015, while the British Airways & Aer Lingus London Heathrow routes continue to be one of the mainstays of the local air travel infrastructure. “We all get excited about new routes and new airlines, but I think it’s important to bear in mind the huge contribution to Belfast and Northern Ireland that an airline like Flybe has made over the years. Their route into London City Airport is going from strength and they also provide important services to some lower volume destinations around the British Isles.” Total passenger numbers through the airport hit the 2.7 million mark last year, almost reaching record levels, with business travellers (both outbound and inbound) accounting for a good proportion of that total. “We are in the market for new routes,” says Katy Best. “We’re looking at a number of second tier city pairs, and we have Germany down as a major priority. Belfast is still without a direct link to the likes of Frankfurt or Dusseldorf, despite the fact that there are 35 or so flights a week from Dublin to German destinations. “We also reckon that a couple of new sunshine destinations could also be added to those that we already have (Aer Lingus serves Malaga, Palma, Faro & Alicante from this summer).” She goes on to identify Bristol as one of very few gaps in a comprehensive domestic route network, a lot of its served by Flybe, and also predicts further changes in the London Area flight market going forward. “I don’t think there is any doubt that we’re in a much stronger position these days when it comes to trying to attract new routes,” adds Katy. “The fact that we have bought in new airlines can only help our cause, as can a buoyant tourism market here. “Even the fact that some Northern Ireland-based passengers are travelling south to use Dublin Airport is

“ There’s no doubt that Belfast has moved up the rankings when it comes to route decisions, and that’s due to the rapid growth in tourism here.” something that can work in our favour. It helps to prove that there is a clear market here for certain international services.” But she also sounds a note of caution. “We do have to bear in mind that there are limits to how far we can go on route development. We’re serving a catchment area similar to Bristol Airport, and a bit like Bristol, we’ve got a much larger international airport 100 miles down the road.” Air passenger duty – a major thorn in the side of both airports and airlines here – continues to have a negative impact. “Put simply, it means that our passengers pay more to fly than those going through Dublin, and that’s a situation that we don’t need,” says Katy Best. “If the Scottish Government does move away APD, it’s vital that we can do the same here in Northern Ireland.” On the broader front, Katy Best reckons that the City Airport is in a good place as a business. “We re-financed the business last year and we’re working to a five-year plan to upgraded facilities. Among the plans we have are improvements to the

retail and food and beverage offerings in the departures area.” Belfast will be the venue for Routes Europe 2017, the annual event that helps match European airports to the airlines that use them. Potentially, that’s another boost for both of the two Belfast airports. “We’ll also be playing our part in the wider tourism push, including the Northern Ireland Year of Food & Drink 2016.” Katy Best says that there is evidence these days that the City Airport’s worth is being acknowledged by Belfast City Council. “There’s definitely more recognition of the fact that we have a key asset here,” she says. “What’s not always appreciated locally is the fact that this is the most centrally located airport anywhere in Europe. “We have come a long way over the years since the airport was established, and we have a very clear view of where we are going.” Footnote – Unfortunately, since this interview was conducted, Vueling announced that it is to discontinue its Belfast City-Barcelona route as part of a wider rationalisation programme.

Eye on Technology

Office 365 Accelerates SAM’s Expansion Plans By implementing Microsoft Office 365 SAM, the UK’s leading manufacturer of MDF mouldings, is increasing collaboration while lowering costs and preparing for growth. SAM recently replaced their outdated IT infrastructure with a new server environment and Microsoft Office 365, enabling continued expansion in the UK and European markets. Business Growth and Increasing Data Volumes… Founded in 1990, family-owned SAM has been recognised as the best in Europe for providing exceptional quality products made to the highest specification. Over the years, SAM’s IT infrastructure has become outdated, causing system instability and jeopardising business expansion plans. Having recently acquired the Welsh company, Hi Spec Doorsets, SAM struggled to deal with increased data volumes and foster productive collaboration among employees. SAM’s IT Director, Tim Patton explained “We were literally creaking at the seams and urgently needed to introduce new technologies and systems that were going to be more solid and stable. We needed a complete solution from an external provider who could be more of a strategic business partner than simply a support arm“. With a sales teams spread across the UK, Northern Ireland and Europe, SAM needed an accessible solution that facilitates email, video conferencing and voice calls between offices. In 2014, SAM brought in Xperience IT Solutions to define a complete IT strategy to support business

growth, reduce costs and drive productivity. The implementation took place over Christmas, that same year, when the Xperience team stripped out the legacy systems, replacing them with a new server environment and Office 365. Cloud-Based Global Productivity Patrick Leggett, Sales Director at Xperience IT Solutions, commented, “Upon consultation, we were confident the new server platform with Office 365 would deliver the requisite efficiency and productivity improvements.”

Left – Right: Tim Patton of SAM and Patrick Leggett, Xperience Group.

In addition, Office 365 is more cost effective, it offers predictable costs while eliminating the need to run and maintain large and costly hardware, consequently driving revenue growth. Tim Patton, “Upgrading to Office 365 has also been an excellent move. For one thing, I no longer have to worry about managing all the

“ With Xperience, you really are getting into a business relationship rather than simply making a purchase. Certainly, our experience of Xperience has been outstanding.” The new setup has improved the flow of information within the organisation, facilitating collaboration and bringing productivity gains. Office 365 has enhanced employee efficiency, allowing the team to access emails and data from anywhere at anytime, on tablets and mobile devices.

various licenses and upgrades. It is subscription-based so I can control my costs, and of course updates take place automatically. Office 365 is very low maintenance, it gives us complete flexibility and control users are familiar with, allowing them to get work done wherever they are.”

Following deployment, SAM benefited from enhanced business agility, improved productivity and increased employee engagement. Working in partnership with Xperience IT Solutions has dramatically reduced the number of support requests, boosting business confidence and allowing for further growth. Having enjoyed Xperience IT Solutions approach and professional expertise, Tim Patton concludes “Xperience is very pro-active in terms of how they manage their customers. With Xperience, you really are getting into a business relationship rather than simply making a purchase. Certainly, our experience of Xperience has been outstanding.”

Xperience IT Solutions 11 Ferguson Drive, Knockmore Hill Industrial Park, Lisburn, BT28 2EX Email: enquiries@xperience-group.com Tel: 028 9267 7533 www.xperienceitsolutions.co.uk

Eye on News

Shareholder Buyout Heralds Next Stage Of Growth For Funder A significant corporate finance deal has heralded the next stage of growth for one of Northern Ireland’s most successful and experienced funders.

he six figure buyout of an existing shareholder at Keys Commercial Finance has paved the way for an exciting company rebrand and new focus for 2016, including the introduction of a unique funding product, under the direction of now-majority shareholder, Judith Totten. With a team of 12 experienced professionals, Upstream Working Capital is set to be the leading provider of working capital solutions for NI’s SMEs, having already provided more than £120m of funding to local businesses in the last year alone . The funder offers a veritable mix of services including invoice and asset

financing as well as other advisory business services to help stimulate growth among the Province’s SME community. The Trade Finance product in particular is unique to the island of Ireland and is not currently offered in this form by any other funder on these shores. The Trade Finance product is ideally suited to businesses with strong order books but who are currently constrained by limits on their existing funding lines. It supports the supply chain by actually buying the product on the company’s behalf and then giving them a period to pay which is based on the company’s trading cycle. As it does not impact

on existing funding lines or security it offers fast growing companies with a proven track record the ability to meet demand and enhance profitability. Recent commentary from Invest NI has shown that Northern Irish business owners are primed for growth in 2016 but access to funding is still potentially a barrier for many. The only locally owned funder in Northern Ireland, Upstream’s major strength is in its owner-managed model, allowing decisions to be made and flexible solutions created – all with the ambitious SME in mind. Judith Totten, Managing Director, Upstream Working Capital, said: “After funding our own shareholder buyout, we took the decision to diversify the business and take it in a new direction, increasing the funding options available to SMEs and supporting

confident growth by providing flexible working capital solutions. “An SME ourselves, and having just reinvested in our own growth, we believe we understand, more than our competitors, the ambitions and pressures that Northern Ireland businesses face around their growth strategies. When we say we understand, we really do. “It’s an exciting time to be an SME here as confidence has been restored and we have begun to see movement, albeit cautious movement, in the market. Upstream, with its positive attitude and approach to funding, wants to help turn this into fearless movement, by facilitating growth and working collaboratively with our customers and partners to allow for a buoyant and confident trading environment.”

€15.5m Project to Deliver ‘RealValue’ To Future Energy Storage The RealValue consortium, led by Glen Dimplex and consisting of 13 Pan-European companies, revealed details on how the RealValue research and innovation project, consisting of 1,250 homes in Ireland, Germany and Latvia, has the potential to revolutionise how consumers use and store energy via their homes.

€15.5m European energy storage project, funded by Horizon 2020** (€12m EC funding), RealValue has been designed to accelerate innovation and develop business models necessary for use of small-scale energy storage in residential homes. Crucial to the success of the RealValue consortium*** is the involvement of all 13 partners who represent the entire energy supply chain - including ESB Networks, EirGrid, Glen Dimplex, SSE Airtricity,

Intel and the Electricity Research Centre at University College Dublin – who will collectively deliver a 36-month large scale pilot study, across five EU member states. At the launch, held in Croke Park and attended by renewables experts and consortium partners, it was also announced that around 200 Irish homes have already been installed with Glen Dimplex Quantum storage heaters and Quantum cylinders. In total, 800 Quantum energy systems (Smart Electric

RealValue Business Director, Rowena McCappin; Irish Broadcaster, Matt Cooper; Neil Stewart, Managing Director, Glen Dimplex Creda and Sean O’Driscoll, Chairman and Chief Executive, Glen Dimplex.

Thermal Storage Systems - SETS) will be installed in Ireland, with 400 homes identified in Germany and the remaining 50 homes and small businesses being recruited in Latvia. The Quantum energy system combines efficient, high-performance electric space and water heating with thermal energy storage capability. It’s the development of residential energy storage that

could transform how consumers store, consume and are paid for renewable energy in the future. RealValue will run for 36 months and it is anticipated that the resulting benefits will include cost savings, reduction of CO2 emissions and improvements in the flexibility and reliability of power systems across the globe. For further information on RealValue, www.RealValueProject.com

Eye on News

My Sister’s Closet And Agnew Group Officially The ‘Smartest’ Business In Town My Sister’s Closet, owned by leading fashion label and bloggers Anita and Donna Ross, have teamed up with Agnew Group to create a new ‘Smart’ partnership.

ith a top range boutique ‘The Boudoir’ at the Linen Green, and over 110,000 followers across their social media, the savvy duo recently launched ‘My Sister’s Closet – The Label’ to huge approval. This month the sisters have joined forces with leading car dealership Agnew Group as 2016 brand ambassadors for the Mercedes ‘Smart fortwo’ and ‘Smart forfour’ car range. Stocking 21 boutiques across Northern Ireland and Ireland, Anita and Donna are regularly on the road checking in with clients, and attending meetings with businesses and suppliers. The partnership with Agnew Group, provides My Sister’s Closet with two new Smart

cars, the ‘Smart fortwo’ and the ‘Smart forfour’ - perfect vehicles to nip around town and country, for the year ahead. Commenting on the partnership, Nigel Gilbert, Sales Manager with Agnew Group, said; “As a leading Car Dealership across Northern Ireland, we wanted to engage with a brand that reflects our own here at Smart at Mercedes-Benz of Belfast. My Sister’s Closet naturally came to mind for the new ‘Smart fortwo’ and ‘Smart forfour’ models given the huge business following Anita and Donna have, and the fact that they very much reflect the Smart and Mercedes-Benz car user. The cars are very fun, affordable,

Anita and Donna Ross, pick up their new ‘Smart forfour’ and ‘Smart fortwo’ from Nigel Gilbert and Emma Boden from Mercedes-Benz of Belfast.

and eco-friendly, which will be useful given how busy both ladies are across their many stockists and suppliers.” Welcoming the arrival of the new My Sister’s Closet branded vehicles from Agnew Group, Anita Ross, said; “We are delighted to have been asked to become brand ambassadors for the Agnew Groups Mercedes Smart car range. Donna and I are constantly on the road, providing updates through social media. Now with these hip, fun and funky cars, we will be able to update and engage with our followers from our very own My Sister’s Closet branded cars. We love how

the cars are designed, they are compact yet very spacious. The fact that the cars are eco-friendly also appeals as it makes them more efficient, especially given how often we will be out and about. We expect they will be full of clothing deliveries on a regular basis! If you see us around town, make sure and beep or say hello.” The Smart fortwo’ and ‘Smart forfour’ models driven by My Sister’s Closet are available to test drive from Agnew Group. To arrange a viewing or test drive, contact Agnew Smart of Belfast at 028 9068 9012 or visit http://www.agnewcars.com/smart/.

NI YEAR OF FOOD & DRINK LAUNCHED Northern Ireland’s Year of Food & Drink was kicked off in spectacular fashion earlier this month with a five-course banquet staged by Tourism NI in the grand surroundings of Belfast’s Ulster Hall.

irst Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness were joined by Economy Minister Jonathan Bell and more than 250 guests at the special event, where a menu featuring local produce was produced by Simon Dougan of Yellow Door. Formally recognising the array of awards and accolades achieved by the food and restaurant sectors in Northern Ireland, First Minister, Arlene Foster said: “The quality of our food is a major reason why people come to Northern Ireland. Food tourism already generates over £350million per year to the local economy, but I believe there is

significant room for further growth. “Tonight’s event gives us the opportunity to unashamedly restate that Northern Ireland’s food and drink heritage is not just unique, but among the finest tastes and flavours to be found anywhere in the world. “As the next 12 months of food and drink experiences unfold, there will be no better time for locals, visitors and global markets alike to enjoy a true taste of Northern Ireland. “The Year of Food and Drink 2016 is a very exciting initiative and hugely important for Northern Ireland. As we showcase, advertise and enjoy our

The First & Deputy First Ministers are pictured with Tourism N Chairman Terence Brannigan and guest speakers, food writer Nigel Barden & Laura Biggs of the BBC Good Food Show.

finest and tastiest produce all through the year, I believe Northern Ireland will perform very well as the destination of choice for food and drink.” The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness said: “Food and drink is an important element of our tourism proposition and global pitch. This £2.75million initiative will assist everyone involved in the food and drink industry to take our influence to another level. It is an important element of our ambition to build and develop a £1billion tourism industry by the end of the decade.

“We have a wealth of high quality, safe and wholesome foods available to the processing, food service and retail sectors. Our produce has world leading traceability and safety controls and is produced on farms with a strong track record in quality assurance systems and high animal health and welfare standards. This makes our produce very attractive to the global market. And he revealed that not only does he do most of the cooking when he’s at home in Derry.....but he grows all of his own herbs as well.

Eye on Law

TUGHANS... EXPERIAN LEAGUE TITLE KICKS OFF 2016 Law firm league tables aren’t crucial in the highly competitive world of legal services and the experienced leading partners at Belfast law firm Tughans are well aware of that.

ut at the end of something that they describe as a challenging year, being named as the leading firm in the Experian Deal Review & Advisor League for Northern Ireland is a major pat on the back... not to mention a significant achievement. According to the research, Tughans advised on 37 Experian-credited deals during the 12 months of 2015, ten more than the law firm in second position and notching up an impressive 25% of all the transactions recorded. And the Tughans total would have been even higher if the festive period hadn’t intervened and meant that a couple of deals dropped into the 2016 calendar year. “Everyone is aware that 2015 brought some unwelcome publicity for us as a firm, but what this research shows is that despite the potential for distraction our teams won and closed a considerable proportion of all of the significant transactions that took place in Northern Ireland,” says Tughans Managing Partner, Patrick Brown. “The last quarter of the year was the strongest one, and this augurs well for an even stronger 2016 in terms of deals and transactions across our corporate, banking and real estate departments. “We see it as a really strong endorsement from the business community for the experience, expertise and quality of our lawyers,” he adds. The Experian boost comes at a very

opportune time for Tughans. 2016 marks the firm’s 120th anniversary, marking it out as one of the longest-established companies of any kind in the city and one of its most historic law firms. “2016 is looking very positive. We’re working on a number of transactions due to complete in the coming months and we’ve also got a strong pipeline of instructions following on from those deals,” says John-George Willis, Head of Tughans Corporate Department. Tughans were involved in a series of highly significant corporate deals in Northern Ireland last year, including the biggest of the lot, the £950 million sale of Moy Park by Marfrig to its new parent company, JBS. Other transactions included Lyceum Capital’s major investment in Total Mobile; the sale of Lurgan-based Sawyers Transport to US giant Agro Merchants and Lookers Plc’s acquisition of the Benfield Motor Group in Newcastle Upon Tyne for £87.5 million.

John-George Willis

The hot sectors of the local economy remain much the same as in recent years, with John-George Willis singling out technology, healthcare and the agri food sectors, although within that, he says that the red meat sector is clearly facing up to a period of restructuring and consolidation.

Eye on Law “Another driver for M&A growth is that there are plenty of really good, undervalued businesses around Northern Ireland,” he says. “And, on the other side of coin, there’s a strong appetite for investments from both Dublin and London-based investors. It’s also good to see the banks back in the game and supporting companies and transactions. That’s important for the broader economy. “So there’s an optimistic picture all round, and what’s important for all of us is to encourage more of that optimism here in Northern Ireland.” On the commercial property front, the Tughans Real Estate team headed up by Phyllis Agnew has been instrumental during the past year in a number of notable deals.

“ We see it as a really strong endorsement from the business community for the experience, expertise and quality of our lawyers.”

Phyllis Agnew

Tughans worked on the sale of three major local retail centres – Lisnagelvin Retail Park in Derry/Londonderry (sold to M&G Real Estate), the Showgrounds Retail Park in Omagh (acquired by Tristan Capital Partners/ Pradera) and the south Belfast scheme close to Forestside occupied by Homebase. The three more recent transactions followed on from the sale of Enniskillen’s Erneside Centre, Fairhill in Ballymena and the Bloomfield Centre in Bangor..... all three of them considered as ‘trophy assets’ during the property boom. The firm’s property team also worked on the sale of the Lough Erne Hotel & Resort to a leading US investment group. “There’s no doubt that investors are becoming more and more active,” says Phyllis Agnew. “The big UK-based and international funds and investors are interested in opportunities here in Northern Ireland. “In particular, good office schemes are attracting interest on the back of the lack of Grade A office space here in Belfast, hotels are trading well, there are clear opportunities in the area of student accommodation here in the city, and there is a very clear interest in good retail opportunities. “And it’s good to see some of the locallybased developers back in action and actively planning commercial schemes.”

Tughans Managing Partner, Patrick Brown

Patrick Brown emphasises that Tughans see 2016 as a year of growth. “We’re definitely targeting growth across all of our areas and particularly in corporate, property and dispute resolution,” he says. “We’ve welcomed a number of new lawyers, some of whom have returned to Northern Ireland with substantial experience at major law firms in London and others parts of the UK, as we gear up for future growth across the board. “We have worked hard to develop teams of very good people in all of our practice areas, and we’re positive about 2016 and beyond.”

The Experian report showed that the number of significant business deals here increased by more than 50% last year, with 165 transactions recorded in 2015 compared to 104 in 2014. The value of those transactions rose from £1.72 billion in 2014 to £1.88 billion.

Eye on I.T.

Feel the Fear…. Then Do IT! Ken Roulston is Managing Director of CMI, one of NI’s leading IT organisations, providing Infrastructure Solutions and Managed Services to over 400 companies here and in GB. He knows all about managing risk, (and overcoming a fear of heights!) having completed a Wing Walk on behalf of The Mark Pollock Trust. Here he talks about the very real and increasing threats to business from an IT perspective and the options available to mitigate that risk.

IT Risk Management It is now accepted that IT is critical to any business today large or small. Therefore it is important that IT is always available and capable of meeting its requirements. The key challenges to this are; 1. Changing Technology • As solutions evolve products are becoming increasingly difficult to support needing regular attention through patching and upgrades as necessary. The increasing trend towards hosted (Cloud) solutions goes some way to address this, however most current systems need careful proactive monitoring and management. • Just as cars become increasingly difficult for the amateur to repair the same is true of IT and support providers need to constantly update their skills and knowledge through manufacturer approved training and state of the art diagnostic systems.

2. Threats to Data • Barely a week goes by without reports hitting the news of some attack on an organisations data and all the damage to reputation that follows. Such attacks are likely to increase in frequency and seriousness as the hackers develop their capabilities with increasing speed. • However it is also now becoming clear that the threat to data is also just as serious from internal sources either as a result of accidental or malicious activity. Indeed such instances are deemed to be currently the dominant threat. 3. Unscheduled outage • How long can you do without access to your IT? The answer usually depends on the nature of the user and the application but there are very few organisations today who can survive being without their IT for more than a day and in

some cases more than an hour. • Such issues may be extended time to repair a fault, impacts of single point of failure components or lack of access due to an external impact such as security, weather or accident related. 4. Regulatory requirements • As a result of the increasing use of IT there has been a similar and bewildering increase in the amount of compliance requirements to meet the various licensing and regulatory demands. These originate from the software manufacturers such as Microsoft, trade bodies and government legislation. • Indeed the impending EU Data Protection Regulation will significantly increase the requirement for all organisations holding data on EU citizens to ensure its safety with major ramifications in the event of breach of fines costing up to 5% of annual turnover.

It is important therefore for ALL businesses to assess the risk arising from such issues and take the appropriate steps to mitigate such in line with priority and budget. The first stage is to conduct a Risk Assessment exercise to determine the current position against a wide range of risks. Such an assessment will usually cover the following aspects; 1. Defining the scope a. Business requirements b. Information infrastructure c. Data sensitivity d. Data flows e. External interfaces f. Hardware and software g. Processes performed h. Users i. Applicable system security policies (company, contractual, legislative) j. Security framework (operating system, location/ containment facilities, & information storage requirements) 2. Followed by a review to Identify, evaluate, and report security vulnerabilities that could be exploited deliberately or accidently 3. Assessing the current state of security in terms of Technical, Operational, Administrative and Management controls 4. Determining the threat sources, their probability and impact level 5. Implementation of a Risk Mitigation Strategy

Free IT Risk Survey In order to establish your current position you may wish to take a few minutes and visit our online assessment tool which can be found at www.newcmi.com/RAS The good news is that there are numerous cost effective solutions available that help you to minimise the risks.

For a free consultation please contact Paul Ramm on 0800 023 2696.

A FARMING YEAR

MONDAYS AT 8PM

Eye on Round Table

FOOD IN THE WORKPLACE... A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT Business Eye joined forces with outsourcing group Mount Charles to stage a Round Table Discussion at the recently refurbished George’s Of The Market Restaurant at Belfast’s St. George’s Market looking at how catering and food in the workplace have changed over recent years, and how both are likely to change in the future. The Participants:

Cathal Geoghegan Managing Director Mount Charles

Christine Magee Sales & Marketing Director Mount Charles

RB – In broad terms, how has catering in the workplace changed and evolved? CG – It has changed a lot, from the old days of canteenstyle catering to a much more modern offering catering for different tastes. We’re also moving towards a much more retail-focused environment in the contract environment. CM – We talk about outsourced catering as distinct from in-house catering which is where the company provides its own catering for its staff. As people’s work lives have changed and lifestyles have changed, so has catering. We’ve worked hard to adapt our offering to changing workplaces. It does replicate the High Street and it tends not to be as heavily subsidised as it used to be. We’re looking at lower cost options for our clients and that means that we have to bring in the High Street brands.

Mary Nairn Downtown Radio/Cool FM

Pat McGarry Henderson Group

WF – I think there’s no doubt that more employers are looking for zero cost options, or at least for as low a subsidy level as they can find. And that applies to both office buildings and industrial facilities. FDs see catering, cleaning and other services as overheads to the business. So it’s all about the value to the business that catering can provide. In some organisations, there is next to no value. In others, there is significant value. RB – How do you define significant value? WF – Employee retention is important, and there are the employee demographics in broader terms. Staff productivity is key and more progressive organisations treat the catering space as an extension of the workplace. It can be a valuable space and it can add real value via communication and productivity. Think about it this way, if you walk into any Costa or Starbucks on the High Street, 60 or 70% of the people there will be working.

Wilton Farrelly, H&J Martin Michael Murphy Asset Management Services Irwins Bakery

CM – At big industrial facilities working shifts, the employer wants to avoid people having to leave to go outside for food so it makes sense to have catering available. CG – We work with our client base when it comes to planning, designing and re-designing catering operations. Henderson Group is a good example of that... PMcG – Yes, we’re building a new headquarters at Mallusk at the moment and there has been debate about what sort of staff restaurant we will have. Our challenge is to match the facility to the demands of different parts of the day. It runs from early morning when we have industrial guys looking for breakfast to accounts or IT professionals coming in later in the morning for a short break. Then there’s lunch and different demands for hot meals, sandwiches, and the like. In the evening, the dynamic changes again. On top of that, the space has to be used for a variety of

meetings, it has to be have wi-fi on tap, and it has to have appeal to draw people to use it. There is a huge value to having lots of different members of staff using one communal space. WF – And that sets a tone for your organisation. I remember going into places 20 years ago where there were separate dining areas set aside for senior management, which sends out completely the wrong message to the wider workforce. PMcG – Things have changed. Our staff restaurant is an integral and very important part of our new headquarters. We’ve gone as far as to survey all of our staff on what they’d like to see in the new facility and we’re waiting for the feedback. CM – It is important to drive usage of catering facilities. We’ve introduced loyalty programmes at some of our sites in recent years for the first time and that’s working towards keeping patronage high and subsidies for our clients low.

Eye on Round Table

CG – No two of our clients have identical needs, so it’s always a case of keeping the communication channels open to ensure that we meet their requirements. MM – We run on a 24/7 basis, 364 days a year. We’ve always worked with our people to find out what they want from their catering at different times through the day. We have delivery drivers heading out in the early hours of the morning and office staff arriving at normal office hours, so there’s a lot of different needs to cater for. Our production staff are on 15-minute breaks, so everything needs to be quick and efficient. They don’t want to stand in a queue and they see themselves as more important than office staff, who don’t have the same time pressures. On the cost front, we do subsidise but we still have the debate every year.

PMcG – We’ve been spending time talking about coffee machines. Coffee is a big factor, there’s a whole social thing around it. People look for the same quality of coffee that they can get on the High Street. So, if we get that offering right, it brings people in.

CG – It comes back to being adaptable. We did work with Costa because of a specific customer requirement, but we’ve got our own coffee brand offering and also a couple of other offerings. Certainly, we’re well aware of the importance of coffee in the wider picture.

RB – There has been some evidence of brand names being brought into on-site catering. Is that an important development?

MN – We have a relatively small catering operation but we are there seven days a week from early morning until late night. Our canteen is invaluable when it comes to clients coming to our site outside Newtownards, and we also run a student academy and their needs are different to those of others on site. You’ll hear things in a canteen environment that you’ll not hear anywhere else. That’s an important factor.

CM – We have brought the Costa name into one site, but we’ve also developed our own brand which we’ve rolled out to universities and which we think can be developed in business and industry as well. It is important for coffee to be branded, through the branded cup. What’s more, if you get the branding right, it’s possible to charge more for the product.

MM – Absolutely. Mary is quite right. I tend to go first thing in

the morning, not because I need a coffee, but because I can pick up the gossip from the night shift and the problems of yesterday can be whispered in your ear. Not always though - often there’s football on the agenda! But you can pick up information and gauge the mood. Ours is a traditional business, but it strikes me that the right environment is even more crucial in high tech businesses populated by younger people. WF – I met with a client in London recently and apart from being the only person in the building with a tie, I was struck by the fact that they immediately brought me to their restaurant and it was busy with people working online. From a practical point of view, a good restaurant can eliminate the need for meeting room facilities, coffee trolleys and the like.

Eye on Round Table public sector can’t be seen to have subsidised restaurant facilities. CM – Yes, all of the catering in the public sector has gone to a nil cost basis. That means that we have to ultimately change the mindset and the expectations of the end customers. We can deliver a range of quality nil cost options nowadays. People sitting in an office all days really don’t want a three-course lunch any more, times have changed. It’s about being more creative.

RB – Are most facilities subsidised or is that increasingly a thing of the past? CM – There are three ways of doing it – subsidised, fixed cost or nil cost. It depends on the number of customers, whether there are shifts and a range of other factors. From there, we can work with a range of different options across opening times, food offerings and the rest. We can always adapt to get the right result. RB – Do employees value a good catering facility or is it an expectation?

to consider. Speed of service, efficiency, simple things like people knowing your name, and value for money is important too. What matters is do they enjoy the food, do they enjoy the value, do they enjoy the surroundings? If they do they’ll come back. RB – Have tastes changed? Are customers more demanding? MN – People are certainly more health conscious. That’s the obvious change. We’re owned by the Bauer Group and we’re the only radio station with its own canteen. It’s important to remember that it’s a luxury to some degree.

CM – Sometimes when they’ve had a good facility for a few years, it’s seen as a given. But I’ve seen outside contractors coming into subsidised facilities and being amazed at how they can buy food cheaply.

RB – Both Mary’s company and Michael’s are located in industrial estates. Are city centre staff restaurants a bigger challenge, considering the competition around them?

MM – True, the grass is always greener. We have people joining us from other employers in the area and they love the fact that we’ve got a good canteen. But our longer established people think nothing of it. So I suppose the challenge is to keep their interest by continuing to make it a focal point of their working life. So it is a cost for us as a business, but it’s one that we definitely gain from.

CG – Yes, you have to price them effectively and get the offering right. When we do that, we’re well aware that the customers can head outside and find a lot of alternatives. Even sales promotions have to replicate what’s happening on the High Street. But, once again, it’s a partnership piece. Innovation is also key. We’ve introduced a new burrito-style brand offering which is proving to be very popular.

PMcG – It’s important to consider what drives people into staff restaurants. The ambience is important, of course, but there are lots of other factors

WF – One thing we haven’t touched on, and its important here in Northern Ireland, is the public sector offering and how it has changed. A key change is the fact that the

CG – The public sector is certainly a challenge, though. It’s all about getting the most value that they can get. The level of catering has diminished significantly from the days when subsidised canteen environments were the norm. RB – How important is the look and feel of a staff restaurant? MN – It’s very important if you’re going to use it for clients, even occasionally. CM – It is important but so is practicality. The furniture has to be hard-wearing and you can only go so far on decoration, look and feel. CG – We’re always looking at fresh concepts. We’ve introduced an open kitchen format at Moy Park, one of our biggest staff restaurants. The kitchen sits between two entirely separate restaurants, one for staff working with raw chicken and the other for those working with cooked chicken. MM – There is always a balance to be struck. You can’t spend too much on canteen chairs, but you don’t want bargain basement plastic ones either. A bit of care and thought can go a long way. PMcG – We’re designing ours at the moment. We’ll have the same number of people but a bigger production area. The more diverse the menu, the bigger the production area you need. We’re keen to drive our people to the restaurant. They get a proper break that way whereas sitting at a desk they don’t. MM – We’ll also provide hot water and microwaves for those who

want to do their own thing. There are packed lunch people and there are those who don’t do that. CM – But we look at them all the same way. Even if someone comes into one of our restaurants with a packed lunch, we’ll look for an opportunity to sell them a soup, a drink or a coffee. RB – Looking forward, how is catering likely to change? CG – We have to continue to innovate and to bring the High Street offering to the contract catering business. CM – It’s all about driving your revenues these days and it is much more retail-focused. That trend will continue. WF – I think we’ll see good businesses starting to integrate their catering operations more closely into their wider operations. If you need to look at staff retention, you need to consider catering as part of that. The work environment is increasingly important and a smart, subsidised staff restaurant could be just as important as other staff perks. PMcG – We’re right in the midst of building a new headquarters and a new staff restaurant. But the challenge is just beginning. There’s no point in building it if people aren’t going to use it.

Eye on Motoring

Porsche Centre Belfast recently held the Launch Event of the new Porsche 911

More Driving Pleasure, Performance And Efficiency: The New Porsche 911 Carrera

he 911 has been the world’s best-selling sports car for decades. Now the new generation has arrived to further extend this lead with innovative turbo flat engines, an advanced chassis and a new infotainment system it is exceedingly well-equipped for this. Thanks to more than four decades of experience with turbo engines – in both motor racing and production sports cars – the engines in the new 911 Carrera set benchmarks in terms of performance, driving pleasure and efficiency. The rear-axle steering, available for the first time as an option for the Carrera models further greatly extends the range of driving dynamics. Many exterior features of the 911 Carrera have been visually refined. These range from new headlights

with four-point daytime running lights to door handles without recess covers, a redesigned rear lid with vertical louvres and new rear lights – including the characteristic four-point brake lights. In the interior the new standard Porsche Communication Management with a multi-touch display offers a considerably expanded range of functions and greatly simplified operation. The new turbocharged engines boast 20 hp power increase coupled with lower fuel consumption. The completely new engine generation with bi-turbo charging raises the emotional driving pleasure of the 911 Carrera to an even more intensive experience; 370 hp (272 kW) of power at the rear of the 911 Carrera is waiting to be unleashed

and converted into sporty propulsion. The engine in the 911 Carrera S now delivers 420 hp (309 kW). In both cases this represents a power increase of 20 hp (15 kW). Both engines have a displacement of three litres. The greater power of the 911 Carrera S results from turbochargers with modified compressors, a specific exhaust system and tuned engine management. Every new 911 generation boasts enhanced performance and efficiency compared with the predecessor. For example, depending on the model variant, the new engine generation is almost twelve percent more efficient and fuel consumption is reduced by up to a litre per 100 kilometres. The 911 Carrera with PDK transmission now consumes just 7.4 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (a reduction of 0.8 litres per 100 km), while the 911 Carrera S with PDK consumes 7.7 litres per100 km (1.0 l less per 100 km). The new 911 also boasts impressive

performance: the 911 Carrera Coupé with Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK) and Sport Chrono Package sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds – making it two tenths of a second faster than its predecessor. The 911 Carrera S with PDK and Sport Chrono Package performs its showcase discipline in just 3.9 seconds (also 0.2 seconds faster). This means that it is the first 911 in the Carrera family to undercut the magic four second mark. And the top speeds of both models have also increased further: the 911 Carrera now has a top speed of 295 km/h (an increase of six km/h), while the 911 Carrera S now even reaches 308 km/h (an increase of four km/h).

For further information on the new 911 contact Porsche Centre Belfast on 028 9038 9999 or email info@porschebelfast.co.uk.

911 Carrera: Combined fuel consumption 34.0-38.2 mpg, urban cycle 24.1-28.5 mpg, extra-urban cycle 44.8-47.1 mpg, CO2 emissions 190-169 g/km 911 Carrera S Combined fuel consumption 32.5-36.7 mpg, urban cycle 23.2-28.0, extra-urban cycle 42.8-44.1 mpg, CO2 emissions 199-174 g/km; efficiency class 911 Carrera Cabriolet: Combined fuel consumption 33.2-37.7, urban cycle 23.7-28.5, extra-urban cycle 43.5-45.6, CO2 emissions 195-172 g/km; efficiency class 911 Carrera S Cabriolet: Combined fuel consumption 32.1-36.2, urban cycle 23.0-27.7, extra-urban cycle 42.2-43.5, CO2 emissions 202-178 g/km; efficiency class

Eye on Recruitment

EXECUTIVE SEARCH –

IN THE TRUEST SENSE 4c Executive Search is Northern Ireland’s leading provider of true executive search services, having been retained to deliver over 70 assignments for some of the province’s foremost organisations since its inception in October 2013. Emma Kieran, Search Consultant at 4c, gives an insight into the extensive process followed by the firm to find the best available candidates for its clients’ business-critical roles.

xecutive search, often referred to as real recruitment, is a methodically driven process used to identify and attract talented individuals to fill business critical roles in an organisation. The candidates searched for are normally inactive job seekers, that is, they are already employed and settled where they are until they are made aware of a new opportunity elsewhere that will further their career. At 4c we follow a proven step-by-step process that ensures the discretion of both the client and the candidate at all times, and leaves no stone unturned in helping us to find the best person for a role: 1. We begin by meeting with our client on a number of occasions to gain an in-depth understanding of the role they are seeking to fill. We also use this meeting to ascertain the company culture, how it functions, and where the role will sit within the structure. 2. We work with our client to draw up a bespoke assignment brief. This is a 15-20-page document that describes in detail important information about the company and the role to be filled. 3. In certain cases, we will propose complementing the executive search process with advertised selection since this, by using appropriate

media and well-crafted wording, can also attract suitable ‘passive job seekers’ who are browsing the job boards. We will draft the job advertisement, and will undertake the negotiation of competitive rates for the placement in selected media publications with the most strategic reach in terms of the candidates we are seeking. 4. Our next step is to work closely with both our internal researchers and our external team of international researchers, who will identify specific individuals that could be a suitable match for the role. An initial list of proposed target individuals will be approved by our client – ensuring that they have no issues with any organisations or individuals on the list at this stage. 5. Our team of researchers will then begin to approach potential candidates (subject to background checks being completed) to describe the opportunity. At this point, our researchers will provide details of the role but not the name of the client. If the candidate confirms that he/she is interested in progressing to the next stage of the process, arrangements will be made for a second call. 6. The purpose of this second call is to provide the candidate with more details of the role, but again without disclosing

Emma Kieran, Search Consultant at 4c.

the name of the client. Our researchers will gather more detailed important information about the candidate, such as their career background, their current salary and details of their current position, before gaining informed consent to share their information with a 4c Search Consultant. 7. At this stage, it is then over to me as a 4c Search Consultant to arrange a call with the candidate with a view to setting up a face-to-face meeting. At this meeting I will finally disclose the name of our client to the candidate and take them through the approved assignment brief, ensuring that they have a full understanding of the role in its entirety. This face-to-face meeting allows me to fully assess the suitability of the candidate for the role. If I am content that they meet all of the relevant criteria, I will seek the candidate’s permission to pass their details on to the client.

8. Having met all of the potential candidates, I then prepare a shortlist of suitable candidates and meet with the client to go through this. Together, we will agree a final list of candidates for interview. These interviews will either be conducted at the client’s premises, or at 4c’s offices in Belfast. A member of the 4c team will sit on the interview panel with our client if requested. This robust process is the ultimate example of executive search in its truest sense. We don’t make use of a little black book or an old boys’ network, nor do we work off an out-dated database, as can often be the case. We simply focus on genuine search and, as a result, we find the best available talent for our clients. http://4cexecutive.com/

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Eye on Local Government

Promoting that the Lisburn Castlereagh area is attracting inward investment are: Sinead Lavery, Economic Development Officer; Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chief Executive; Alderman Allan Ewart, Chair of the Development Committee; Alderman Jim Dillon, Vice-Chair of the Development Committee and Hazel King, Business Solutions Manager.

LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH... CITY ON A BUSINESS MISSION When Northern Ireland’s 26 local councils found themselves whittled down to 11 so-called ‘Super Councils’, each of them had to square up to new challenges along with their bigger areas and larger populations.

ey among those challenges are important new powers, including control over local planning issues and more input into local economic development. It’s fair to say that some of the new breed of councils have been quicker off the blocks than others. One of the quickest, at least to date, is the new combined Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council (LCCC),

in a pivotal location to the west and south of Belfast....and on the Belfast-Dublin Economic Corridor. “I think it’s fair to say that we’ve been energetically working on economic development for some time,” says Hazel King, Manager of LCCC’s Business Solutions Team and a highly effective advocate of doing business in Lisburn & Castlereagh. But she’s not the only one. Alderman Allan Ewart, Chairman of the Council’s Development Committee, is no slouch when it comes to selling the benefits of his area. Between them, the pair are passionate about what they’re trying to achieve.....and that’s something that reflects

well on the Council as a whole. What also reflects well is the depth and breadth of the City Council’s economic development efforts, and its achievement on the ground. The Council’s impressive, multi-faceted Civic Headquarters at Lagan Valley Island in Lisburn are testament to that – offering a variety of competitively priced function and conference rooms for hire. “We’re interacting with business in a number of different ways,” says Hazel King. “Inward investment is a highly competitive area but we’re making sure that we’re in there when it comes to mobile investments. And we’ve already had quite a few successes.

“We’ve assisted many local businesses to develop new international trade links, namely in the Netherlands as part of an annual trade programme, as well as to other parts of Europe, including the Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia, and we regularly host potential investors here in the City,” she says. “Our message is straightforward. Lisburn & Castlereagh is Northern Ireland’s best connected city – close to Belfast, to the M1 motorway, to rail links, two airports, Belfast Port, a couple of universities and a number of FE colleges. And we’re talking about a population of a million within a 30-minute radius.”

Eye on Local Government

Pictured in the Decora factory, based in Knockmore Hill Industrial Park, are Alistair Speer, Operations Director; Alderman Jim Dillon, Vice-Chairman of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Development Committee; Alderman Allan Ewart, Chairman of the Council’s Development Committee; and Russell Dickson, Managing Director, Decora Blind Systems.

“Key sectors on the target list include ICT, business & professional services, renewables and life sciences. And, of course, we complement and work alongside Invest Northern Ireland on the investment front.” Lisburn & Castlereagh plays strongly on the message that the area could hardly be better connected....and that means both geographically and digitally. Ofcom rankings show that it can offer 96.2% superfast broadband availability and one of the UK’s best average connection speeds. As part of a comprehensive inward investment programme, the Council holds a successful annual St. Patrick’s Day reception at Westminster alongside the area’s MP, the Rt Hon Jeffrey Donaldson, and were recently the only Council from Northern Ireland exhibiting at the largest UK based property and investment conference MIPIM UK in October 2015. Meanwhile, a number of events are being planned for 2016 to coincide with Tourism Northern Ireland’s Year of Food & Drink. Economic Development at council level isn’t just about inward investment. It’s also about providing assistance and advice to existing local businesses and helping to encourage the flow of new business start-ups.

The Economic Development Unit in the Council revolves around four key service areas:• Business Development • Rural Development • Regeneration • Tourism Development Within Business Development, the Council delivers a series of key business support initiatives under the Business Solutions banner: • Mentoring Programme – providing generic support and advice aimed at encouraging company growth • Networking – a discussion and networking forum for small business owner/managers • Female Networking – a forum aimed exclusively at female entrepreneurs in the Council area • Innovation – embedding innovation in all aspects of local business activity • Graduate Enterprise – dedicated programme to increase levels of graduate entrepreneurship • Sales & Marketing – aimed at assisting companies to develop new sales • Food & Drink business support programme • Procurement - to assist local businesses secure new contracts

Lord Maude, Cabinet Minister, congratulates Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council for taking the initiative to attend the MIPIM UK property exhibition.

• Access to Finance – practical support for businesses to secure external funding for business growth • Rural Development Programme – grants and support available for local companies based in rural areas “We are a business friendly Council and we work very hard to connect with businesses across the Council area,” says Alderman Ewart. “We hold regular business breakfasts and networking events here at Lagan Valley Island. We have just completed five business Roadshows across the new Council area, and we maintain regular contact through our business development initiatives, through a monthly e-newsletter, local press and social media. “As a Council we feel it’s important that we get out and talk to business people and find out what their issues and challenges are. That communication helps to make Lisburn & Castlereagh a better place to do business. “We also work closely with other key business organisations and bodies,” he adds. “And have established working relationships with local enterprise partners such as Lisburn Chamber of Commerce, South Eastern Regional College, Lisburn Enterprise Organisation, Inspire Business Centre, and

Invest Northern Ireland.” Dr Theresa Donaldson is keen to add that Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council continues to work with local businesses on the practical front. “When we talk to a business client, we’ll home in on what they need and how best we can help them. “We provide practical hands on support with issues like sales & marketing, the use of social media, strategic business planning and exporting,” she says. “We’re here to provide that help and assistance on an informal basis. “We’re ambitious, enterprising and entrepreneurial,” says Alderman Ewart. “That’s the key message that we’re sending out to businesses.....businesses that are already based here in Lisburn & Castlereagh and businesses who might come here in the future. We are hosting the first Lisburn & Castlereagh City Business Awards in March 2016, and I’m looking forward to celebrating and giving recognition to the world class local companies who have made the Council area their preferred location to do business.” Businesses in Northern Ireland wishing to relocate to the Lisburn & Castlereagh area can access the Council’s unique Soft Landing Programme, which provides access to free advice from local professional businesses.

Eye on Tourism

BOBBY WILLIS...

MAPPING OUT A FUTURE TO AN ICONIC EVENT Bobby Willis is more than a little tired on a Friday mid-morning at Bennett’s Cafe in East Belfast.....and for a better reason than most of us have for being a bit jaded by the end of the working week.

ach year in the first couple of weeks of January, Willis’s day job becomes a night job, as well. He set up Rallymaps nearly 40 years ago to provide specialist maps to the major teams who came here to compete in the Circuit of Ireland. “It was a simple enough idea,” he says. “The rally teams didn’t have time to organise and mark up their own maps so I offered to do it for one or two of them and it all grew from there over the years.” That was back in the days when the work had to be done by coloured pencils. The advent of colour photo copiers followed by the internet has made things a little less

labour intensive......but only to a degree. These days, Rallymaps generates maps for rally events all over the world from Europe to the Middle East and as far afield as New Zealand. Why the busy January? The small Belfastbased team works on maps on a daily basis for a team competing in the gruelling Dakar Rally. “The teams competing on Dakar are given their route instructions every evening of the rally. We have them emailed to us, we work through the night on the maps send back the finished versions early each morning before the cars set off. So it’s hard work.....to put it mildly,” he says. “But no one else is doing it to the extent that we are, so we’re in a good place. I suppose you could say that we’re exporting our expertise from Northern Ireland to the world.” It’s not a job that anyone could do. Bobby Willis’ mapping expertise is built on years of experience as a co-driver in rallies all over the world. He first went along to a local navigation rally in 1972 as a spectator, and was smitten. “The thing about navigation rallies is that

they’re exactly as their name suggests. They’re based around map reading and accurate ‘seat of the pants’ navigation by the co-driver combined with the skills of the driver.” Navigation rallies, in fact, form the basis of the sport. Today’s norm of closed road special rally stages were introduced some years later. During his lengthy motor sport career as a co-driver (formerly known as navigators) Bobby earned an international reputation with over 100 co-driving shifts in the Rally World Championship, the Middle East Rally Championship and the Cross-Country World Cup. Bobby’s rallying career has taken him all over the world including most European mainland countries, Australia, the Middle East, as well as North Africa for the world famous Dakar Rally. Working with Volkswagen in their logistics section also presented the opportunity to travel to Russia and throughout South America. “I’ve been incredibly lucky and all my travels have taught me so much about the sport that I love.....” he adds.

Eye on Tourism

Bobby Wilis with Idris Elba.

In December 2015 he was awarded the highly prestigious Contribution to Motorsport Award for 2015 by the Sparks NI Motorsport Committee. Bobby was presented with his award by one of the stars of the sports at the moment, Northern Ireland-born Kris Meeke. Currently driving for the Citroen team, Meeke became the first British or Irish driver to win a WRC (World Rally Championship) event when he triumphed in Argentina last year. Bobby Willis’s first international win was back in 1995 – on the Jordan Rally, but it was clinching the Lebanon Rally in 1996 alongside driver Abdullah Bakhashab that he regards as his first significant and very special achievement. In 2000 and in a searing heatwave, the pair finished 6th overall in Greece based Acropolis Rally but Bobby’s proudest moment came in 2003 when he and driver Stephane Henrard took 6th overall position overall in the Dakar Rally – universally billed as the world’s toughest and most challenging rally. And it’s still taking its toll on Willis, even though he’s not competing any more.....! After an accomplished co-driving career Bobby stopped competing in 2003 after the Dakar Rally which finished in January 2003 and one final outing in June 2003 with female driver Jutta Kleinschmidt – herself a former and only female winner at Dakar. In March 2013, Bobby came out of retirement to take part in the Mallorca Island Classic Rally, with Steve Perez driving a Lancia Stratos. The duo scored a win in their class and achieved fourth place overall in snowbound conditions. “We’ve got a rich tradition when it comes to rallying here, and we’ve produced plenty of famous names from Kris Meeke to Bertie Fisher and the legendary Paddy Hopkirk, as well as top co-drivers like Terry Harryman and Fred Gallagher.” But, working around the clock on rally maps apart, Bobby Willis has another major sporting challenge on his hands. He took on the role of Promoter & Event Director of the Circuit of Ireland Rally in 2009.

Bobby Willis with Paddy Hopkirk.

There’s no doubting his passion for the iconic event......but he’s keen to get a stark message out into the local community. “The Circuit of Ireland simply can’t survive without strong commercial sponsorship,” he says. “We’ve worked very hard over recent years to get the event back up where it belongs, but it costs a lot of money to organise and to run, and we won’t be able to go on without some lasting support.” The 2016 Circuit of Ireland Rally moves from its traditional Easter slot to April 7th to April 9th this year. The event is now part of the British Rally Championship as well as the UK & Ireland round of the European series. “Almost everyone I talk to about the Circuit of Ireland about has a fond memory of going to the rally years ago, and everyone knows the brand in some shape or form,” he says. “So it is very much a part of the annual sporting calendar here.” Bobby Willis’ single-minded campaign to restore the Circuit of Ireland to its rightful place kicked off in 2007 when he was one of the driving forces behind the appearance of the worlds’ top rally drivers at a highly successful WRC Special Stage held at Stormont. It turned out to be the Midas Touch for the waning Circuit of Ireland. “It brought the world’s top drivers to Stormont and opened everyone’s eyes to how spectacular the sport can be.” The Circuit of Ireland has grown significantly each year under Bobby Wlllis’s watch, Its inclusion in the 2012 Intercontinental Rally Challenge saw a 100% increase in spectators and attracting an international TV audience of millions via Eurosport & Discovery Channel.. In 2014, the IRC was repackaged as the Eurosport-led European Rally Championship and the Circuit became one of 13 rounds in the new series. The result was dramatic. Attendance doubled to almost 74,000, bed nights topped the 10,000 mark and the economic impact was measured at £1.5 million by an Ulster University specialist. Last year, the event increased its attendance to 78,500, bed nights to almost 14,000 and

produced an economic impact of £1.8 million. Crucially, the global television audience via Eurosport and its partner channels is estimated at 30 million. “That makes the Circuit of Ireland a dynamic and absolutely unique tourism marketing tool,” says Bobby Willis. “Big golf events are great but they only show the golf course and its surroundings. We bring the Circuit of Ireland to different parts of Northern Ireland, and the kind of images that TV produces are amazing.” Last year’s event was boosted by participation of Hollywood actor Idris Elba in the rally, as part of his Discovery Network programme ‘King of Speed.’ The upshot of extensive negotiations and planning between Circuit of Ireland and television production company Shine TV, ‘King of Speed’ was a one-hour programme documenting Elba’s quick-fire endeavour to become a rally driver and compete in the Circuit of Ireland Rally.   This year’s event will include spectacular special stages on the North Antrim Coast and the Glens of Antrim, as well as around Downpatrick, Lisburn, Antrim & Banbridge so more eye-catching images from both groundbased and helicopter cameras are guaranteed. “We work hard to make sure that some key landmarks and sights are included on the route and therefore that they’re covered on TV worldwide.” The Circuit of Ireland was honoured in November at the annual UTV Business Eye Awards, where it picked up the Tourism & Hospitality Project of the Year Award, beating off competition from last July’s return of the Tall Ships Race to Belfast. “We’ve a very special event which has been part of the sporting fabric here for a long time and it’s an event which can give worldwide exposure to Northern Ireland......that’s the bottom line. So we’re calling on businesses and others to throw their weight behind the Circuit of Ireland. Not just to ensure its survival but to make it something even more special.”

Eye on News

CULLODEN CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF 5-STAR STATUS The first hotel in Northern Ireland to be granted 5-star status, the Culloden Estate & Spa, is celebrating 20 years this month since it was first awarded the highest rating a hotel can receive.

n addition to this, the Culloden was included by The Times in a recent list of the 20 Coolest Hotels in Ireland. Formally known as Culloden House, the Culloden Estate & Spa was built in 1867 as an official Palace for the Bishops of Down before being sold during the 1920’s by the Church to the late Sir John Campbell. In April 1959 Culloden House was purchased for £10,000 by farmer Thomas Reid who was before being sold again in 1962 to Ruthledge White of White’s Home Bakery Limited and opened the following year as a hotel with 11 bedrooms. The hotel was then purchased by Hastings Hotels in June 1967 for £100,000 and has been transformed in to one of the finest and most luxurious hotels in Ireland. Hastings Hotels has continued to invest in the property to ensure it remains the jewel in the local tourism industry and it now boasts 105 deluxe bedrooms – one third of which are suites, 11 luxurious selfcatering apartments, a luxurious spa,

the Highland Conference Centre which boasts five purpose built meeting rooms and two major function suites, the Stuart Suite and the Cumberland Suite, which is undergoing refurbishment in 2016. The Culloden is also the first choice for many of the famous faces visiting Northern Ireland and has played host to politicians, pop stars and sporting heros including Michael Douglas, Dolly Parton, Bono, Tony Blair, John Major, David Beckham, Sir Cliff Richard, Kylie Minogue, Shirley McClaine and Lionel Ritchie to name just a few. Sir William Hastings, Chairman of Hastings Hotels said: “It is fantastic to celebrate 20 years since the Culloden Estate & Spa was the first hotel in Northern Ireland to be granted a 5-star status. When I first purchased the property in 1967, it was a hotel with 11 bedrooms and I am proud to have transformed it into what I believe is one of Ireland’s finest and most distinguished hotels. “We have not rested on our laurels

and have continued to invest in the property every year since we purchased it. In the last 20 years alone, since the Culloden gained its 5-star status, we have invested in excess of £20M to ensure we offer our guests a first class service every time. Not only have we invested in the property itself, but we continue to invest in our staff who ensure all our guests enjoy the 5-star treatment the hotel is wellknown for,” Sir William continued. “We are also big believers in supporting our local food producers and food provenance is of major importance to us. Where possible, we provide our guests with the very best of local produce which is reflected in the menus in our six hotels.

“Not only is the Culloden Estate the hotel of choice for well-known personalities when they are in town, but it has also established itself as a popular filming location thanks to Northern Ireland’s growing screen tourism. ” Sir William added. “What’s more, I am thrilled at the news that the Culloden was recently included by The Times, one of the UK’s largest daily newspapers, in a list of the 20 coolest hotels in Ireland as I believe this demonstrates that while guests appreciate the hotel’s palatial surroundings they also value the modern aspects of the Culloden including the modern bedrooms, luxurious spa and the fabulous cocktail list in the Crozier Lounge,” Sir William concluded.

SSE ARENA, BELFAST RANKS AMONG WORLD’S TOP ARENAS The SSE Arena, Belfast has been named in the world’s top 25 arena venues according to the Pollstar 2015 worldwide ticket sales report, the first edition since the arena’s major refurbishment last year.

oasting ticket sales of 474,616 the SSE Arena, Belfast placed 23rd on the Top 200 table thanks to an increase of 120,000 visitors to the arena which saw it climb 25 places from the 2014 report. The arena took 5th place among 18 UK venues, with The O2 – London topping the list as the world’s most popular by ticket sales. The figure excludes Belfast Giants Ice Hockey ticket sales which last year amounted to 160,000. Added to the Pollstar figure would see The SSE Arena, Belfast jump into the top 10 of the World Arenas report. In September 2015, the former

Odyssey Arena was renamed The SSE Arena, Belfast in a 10 year naming rights deal with energy provider SSE Airtricity. The Arena’s 15th year saw major events take the stage including sold out shows for One Direction, U2 and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards, while successfully launching a new theatre format catering for audiences of 1,500 – 3,500 people. Neil Walker, General Manager of The SSE Arena, Belfast, said: “We are delighted to have placed so highly and to have increased our annual attendance by more than 120,000. We would like to thank everyone who

came to the SSE Arena in 2015, it is through their support that we have helped make Belfast one of the top cities for entertainment in the world. “When we relaunched in September last year we expected the arena to complete its busiest year ever, and we more than delivered on those

expectations. With a strong outlook for 2016, we look forward to welcoming global stars including Adele and Elton John to Belfast in coming months as well as shows for The SSE Arena’s new Theatre format including The Magic of Motown, Red Hot Chilli Pipers and The Johnny Cash Road Show.”

Eye on News

LISNEY ANNOUNCES £2M INVESTMENT IN OBEL COMPLEX The Belfast city centre Obel property complex is set to receive a £2m investment from its owners, leading commercial property agent Lisney has announced.

he cash injection will involve a major upgrade of Ireland’s tallest building. Significant refurbishment works are set to be carried out to the common areas throughout the building. As the appointed asset manager for the project, Lisney will oversee the programme of enhancement works which will lead to a limited number of apartments in the Donegall Quay development coming to market upon completion. The commercial property agent is currently engaging with a range of local suppliers and contractors, with work already underway and expected to be completed before the end of 2016 Declan Flynn, Managing Director of Lisney Northern Ireland, commented:

“This multi-million pound investment not only represents the most positive development in the local property market for many years, but also provides a major boost to the Northern Ireland economy. “The Obel building helped reshape the Belfast skyline when it was first launched and the forthcoming refurbishment works will help the complex fulfil its full potential, becoming the pinnacle of city centre living for Belfast’s young professionals. “As the appointed asset manager for the project, we are already seeing very clear signs of the appetite which exists for living units at what is set to become one of the city’s most iconic buildings. “Private tenant occupancy rates in Obel Tower have risen from 50%

Declan Flynn, Managing Director of Lisney Northern Ireland, and Ciaran O’Kane, Director of Property Management at Lisney Northern Ireland, announce the £2 million investment in the Obel property complex by its owners.

to 95% since we were appointed last year and we expect demand to escalate ahead of the refurbishments.” The Obel is a 27-storey complex comprising of over 200 luxury apartments and 52,462 sq ft of grade A office accommodation, which is home to international law firm Allen & Overy and the Mount Charlesoperated eaterie, Fed and Watered. The Obel was first launched onto the market in 2005 when dozens of apartments were sold off-plan. Construction commenced in 2006 and was completed in 2011.

Ciaran O’Kane, Director of Property Management at Lisney, added: “Lisney is delighted to be asset managing this milestone investment project which will provide a real vote of confidence and shot-in-the-arm for the local property sector. “There’s no doubt the works which are set to take place will ensure the building will be of the highest possible specifications. “The finish will equal that of any luxury apartment development across Europe and be a fitting home for young professionals from all sectors.”

Monday 15th February. Winners will be announced at the flagship industry awards event held at Titanic Belfast in advance of a gourmet lunch and afternoon networking event on Thursday 31st March. Categories include:

• Most Environmentally Sustainable Construction Project • Most Successful Renewable Electricity Installation • Most Successful Renewable Heat Installation • Outstanding Award for Work in the Renewable Energy Sector

DEADLINE APPROACHES FOR RENEWABLE AWARDS As the deadline date of 15th February approaches, organisers of Northern Ireland’s leading renewables industry awards, the Action Renewables Awards, are urging local organisations to enter now for a chance to be considered for these prestigious awards.

eaming up with event sponsors, renewable electricity supplier Vayu and Tughans Solicitors, Action Renewables will take to the stage at Titanic Belfast to honour leading businesses, organisations and individuals working to promote renewable energy technologies across Northern Ireland for the 8th year at its annual awards luncheon on 31st March. “The impressive calibre of last year’s entries and the overwhelmingly positive response to the awards clearly demonstrates the importance of renewables to local businesses,” said Mary Rossiter, Vayu Energy. As a supplier of 100% green electricity, this

is something we’re seeing on the ground first hand, which is very encouraging. We would encourage as many businesses as possible to enter this year and help us to celebrate the very best in renewables.” “We are delighted to sponsor the Action Renewables Awards for eight years running,” added Maria O’Loan, Tughans. We recognise the importance of renewable technologies in Northern Ireland’s economic development having worked on some of the region’s most innovative renewable projects. The awards recognise the achievements and importance of the industry.” The deadline to enter the 2016 Action Renewables Awards is 5pm

• Best Community Renewables Project • Best Energy Saving SME • Best Energy Saving Large Organisation • Best Planning For a Sustainable Project • Best Renewables Installation within the Education, Healthcare and Public Sectors

To download an entry pack visit http://actionrenewables. co.uk/association-awards/

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

2016 A YEAR OF GROWTH & OPPORTUNITY? So what will 2016 hold for businesses in Northern Ireland and our local economy? We put the question to a varied cross section of local business leaders and opinion formers, and you can read their individual responses in the pages that follow.

he coming 12 months could be a period of real opportunity for Northern Ireland. In the positives column, there’s little doubt that tourism here will continue to grow and that will be backed up by new hotel projects and the opening of the Waterfront Hall’s Conference Centre in May. There’s also the little matter of Corporation Tax. Not that it will be reduced any time soon. In fact, we’ve got to struggle our way through a couple more New Year’s Eve celebrations before we can start to the reap the benefits. But there’s no doubt that we need to start sowing the seeds now. Belfast

City Council, heading off to the big MIPIM Real Estate event in Cannes with tax as part of its triple-pointed message to potential investors, is show the way in that respect. And then there’s relative political stability. Arlene Foster has settled quickly into the First Minister’s role, there’s an air of optimism and co-operation and it’s important that we make the most of that. Over on the other side of the graph, the clouds on the horizon are led by macro-economic threats, in particular the dual threat of Chinese ‘downturn’ and falling oil prices which the economists tell us pose

something of a problem for all of us. Coming much closer to home, Northern Ireland has to move into election mode yet again in May of this year to elect a new Assembly. Just when we get one that’s working reasonably well, we’ve got to do it all over again. As ever, then, there are opportunities and there are threats. Our various contributors pinpoint quite a number

of those in the coming pages. But, almost to a man and woman, one things comes through and it comes through strongly... optimism. Have we become a nation of optimists? What on earth has happened to us? Richard Buckley Editor

Jackie Henry Senior Partner, Deloitte Belfast

arly indications for 2016 are positive and, whilst this year certainly won’t be without its challenges, I see this as being a year of significant opportunity and investment for the local economy and business community as a whole. Last year’s confirmation of the 12.5% corporation tax rate from April 2018 onwards was hugely significant for Northern Ireland which will only hasten the pace of more FDI coming into the region. We must do everything we possibly can as a local business community to help attract that investment. In March this year, for example, a delegation of business leaders will travel to

the MIPIM international property investment conference to highlight to investors the wealth of opportunities that Belfast, and Northern Ireland in general, has to offer. Northern Ireland’s reputation as a leading hub for technology and creative industries, alongside our world-class pool of talent, our confirmed low rate of corporation tax from April 2018 onwards and a wealth of other opportunities for international investors, means that the region’s attractiveness as a place to invest is only going to grow. In driving for a reduced corporation tax rate our political leaders know they need to work together across the political spectrum and

with the local business community, to send out these positive messages about Northern Ireland as an excellent place to invest.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum Darren McDowell Partner at Harbinson Mulholland

016, with Arlene Foster as First Minister, offers the Northern Ireland Executive a renewed opportunity to work together strategically to create long term economic growth. While there is no doubt a corner was turned in 2015, with a new and growing spirit of optimism and innovation evident among local SMEs, more still needs to be done to support small businesses. The commitment to reduce the corporation tax rate in Northern Ireland to 12.5% from 2018 will stimulate inward investment, but this must at the same time be backed by political stability and an investment in a skilled workforce who can leverage this tremendous opportunity for the local economy. Small and owner-managed as well as family businesses remain the backbone of the local economy and they can only enjoy faster growth and reach their full potential with Government support aimed at strengthening the private sector. Alternative sources of funding, appropriate pools of expertise and adequate IT infrastructure are all required if Northern Ireland businesses are to compete at any sustained level of success in the global marketplace. The Executive has put much emphasis on its support for innovation and entrepreneurship

“ The Executive has put much emphasis on its support for innovation and entrepreneurship over the past few years and we can see this starting to bear fruit.”

over the past few years and we can see this starting to bear fruit, but this is a mindset that we need to continue to cultivate. Huge challenges lie ahead of us in 2016. Welfare reform, public sector reform and continued political stability after the Assembly elections in May are all essential in providing a backdrop against which small businesses can perform well. On the other hand, the fall in energy prices and

unemployment figures, along with the potential offered by upcoming events, for example the Year of Food and Drink, will offer the smallest of local businesses a chance to do better. So, overall, we are cautiously optimistic that with good planning, smart problem solving and careful commercial navigation, the more than 2,000 individual, SME, third sector clients and family businesses we represent can look forward to a fruitful 2016.

Richard Gillan Managing Partner at Grant Thornton (NI) LLP

espite relative optimism, there is no doubt Northern Ireland’s economy continues to face some challenges. Growth forecasts remain low - at around 1% - as austerity plans and Government cuts are poised to take effect, albeit that the recent reversal on the removal of tax credits has offered some respite to those on lower incomes. The forecast increase in interest rates, although modest and slow-moving, could have a detrimental effect on many individuals and businesses locally who are just surviving at the current level. In the coming year, I believe Northern Ireland’s business community can expect to see an increase in Merger & Acquisition activity following a steady increase in transactions throughout 2015. With banks’ appetite to lend SMEs increasing, there will be improved conditions and potential for companies to consider refinancing. That said, there has understandably been changes to lending criteria in light of the recession, leading to an ever increasing role for private equity and alternative sources of funding. Meanwhile, some local banks may still be under pressure to

reduce non-performing loans on their balance sheets, so 2016 may see further portfolio loan sales and an increase in enforcement action. The Fresh Start Agreement signed in December removes the immediate threat to the devolved administration, however the prospects for bold, strategic decision making remain low as politicians focus their attention on the looming Assembly Elections in May. After the summer, and fortified with a new mandate, we would hope the Executive will take steps to pave the way for the introduction of lower Corporation Tax in 2018. While there are certainly grounds for cautious optimism, strategic guidance from the Executive is a must if our economy is to maximise the opportunities which 2016 presents.

“ In the coming year, I believe Northern Ireland’s business community can expect to see an increase in Merger & Acquisition activity following a steady increase in transactions throughout 2015”

Eye on Business Leaders Forum Richard Ennis Director of Business and Corporate Banking, First Trust

f the Brexit referendum goes ahead this year, and it looks like it will, it will be the most critical issue facing the Northern Ireland economy in 2016. Whilst our politicians have had to deal with our own enormous challenges there will be fewer issues in our lifetime involving decisions of this magnitude for every aspect of our economy. It is critical that the business community seeks an understanding of the consequences of a vote and makes its voice heard. For Northern Ireland the position is potentially even more acute than the rest of the UK given our shared land border with the Republic. At First Trust Bank we have seen a noticeable return in business confidence in recent years with many customers now in a position where they want to and are in a position to grow. We saw strong levels of capital investment throughout 2015 and this has continued into January. However, the uncertainty and instability of a referendum result has the potential to delay investment decisions and slow any recovery. A possible reduction in Corporation Tax in 2018 is welcome news and according to the UU Economic Policy Centre, could result in over 30,000 additional jobs by 2033. This of course assumes we will

have the necessary skills to meet the needs of local and international businesses. On this point, we would encourage government to keep the skills agenda very much in focus as well. Overall, the main local economic challenge remains the need to rebalance the local economy and on two interdependent fronts. We need to achieve a better balance between the public and private sectors overall – but crucially we also need to achieve a better balance between domestic and international markets. A corporation tax reduction should help, but there is no escaping the fact that we need to grow our exports significantly and encourage more businesses to raise their export sights and ambitions.

“ A possible reduction in Corporation Tax in 2018 is welcome news and according to the UU Economic Policy Centre, could result in over 30,000 additional jobs by 2033.”

Mark Regan CEO Kingsbridge Private Hospital, part of the 3fivetwo Group

welcome £40m lifeline from the Executive at the end of last year helped take the edge off the waiting lists - but the bad news is there is that early indications would suggest that there will be little or no money available for the Waiting List Initiative in 2016. For most people, along with small businesses who do not have healthcare packages in place, a potential wait of more than 3 years for treatment is one of the most pressing issues facing the Executive in 2016. Half our budget is spent on dealing with the health needs of an increasingly ailing and ageing local population, yet our politicians are still wrestling with the challenge of delivering acceptable levels of care. As an independent healthcare provider, 3fivetwo Group has worked in partnership with the Trusts to help bridge the gap between NHS capacity and demand. It’s an issue which is not going to go away in 2016. There is a serious inequality in terms of elective healthcare in Northern Ireland versus that in England - 18 weeks from referral letter to surgery in England compared to a composite target rate of around 50 weeks here (and most people wait longer).

Patients from every walk of life are turning to us to have their treatment - not because they want to, but because they have been forced to. The fact is the NHS is not able to rapidly increase capacity the same way the private sector can, and that independents must be part of the long term solution in how we care for the healthcare needs of the population. Apart from any ideological difficulties, if the private sector is able to deliver healthcare in a more efficient and cost-effective way, we need to give it serious consideration as a society. Not only would it bring the waiting lists under control, but it would save the public purse money. My advice to our politicians in 2016 would be to create a health service which maintains quality, increases efficiency, reduces waste and serves the long term needs of the people of Northern Ireland Recruit talented managers, including those with business experience, and invest heavily in them. Give those managers independence and accountability and respect and reward staff. Even a simple ‘thank you’ goes a long way.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum Richard Donnan Head of Ulster Bank Northern Ireland

016 promises to be Northern Ireland’s sixth consecutive year of economic growth, aided by a robust recovery in the Republic of Ireland and relatively strong expansion in the UK. The public spending environment and the slowdown in China are amongst the key challenges. However, it is worth noting that the most recent employment figures show Northern Ireland created three times as many jobs in the private sector than were lost in the public sector during the penultimate quarter of 2015. And whilst China is slowing, it is still expanding by the size of Northern Ireland’s economy every two weeks or so. The business community can expect some important initiatives to support entrepreneurship and innovation in 2016. For me, two of the most notable are the Year of Food and Drink, and - one closer to home, so to speak - the opening of the Entrepreneurial Spark Hatchery

in Belfast. Food and drink is one of our flagship industries, accounting for c£2.8billion in external sales, and the Year of Food & Drink rightly puts the spotlight on the sector, highlighting and promoting Northern Ireland’s abundant capabilities and quality produce to our people, visitors and external markets. Increasing the quantity and quality of startup businesses is also key to the growth of our private sector, and the Entrepreneurial Spark Hatchery, powered by Ulster Bank, is one of an increasing number of initiatives that will help do so - providing free space for up to 80 entrepreneurs, with hands-on mentoring, a startup ‘bootcamp’, and a free programme of up to 18 months of advice, support and funding clinics. Rebalancing the economy by growing the private sector requires the seeds of strong new indigenous businesses to be sown as well as increased inward investment.

As well as the upcoming assembly elections, our politicians will have to deal with some difficult decisions regarding public spending and revenue-raising. In this context, we can expect the focus to return to the issue of corporation tax and how a cut would be funded. I would like to see our political leaders fully focusing on the development of an environment and supporting infrastructure that

will enable Northern Ireland to fully leverage and develop its many inherent capabilities and improve our productivity and competitiveness. That is, a considered and carefully constructed investment plan to fuel sustainable growth. Much easier said than done. But having a former Enterprise Minister and Finance Minister as the new First Minister certainly shouldn’t hurt.

Richard Caldwell Managing Director of Business Banking, Danske Bank

t Danske Bank we are expecting the economic recovery to continue on a slow yet steady path with growth of 1.8% in 2016, driven by labour market expansion and a strengthening private services sector. In terms of our Business Banking division, Quarter 4 of 2015 saw an uplift in demand from businesses

seeking funding for a range of projects including investment in commercial real estate, Buy to Let portfolios, construction, as well as increases in working capital to support growing order books across many sectors. We expect to see this demand continuing in 2016 as businesses look for ways to improve their

returns in the current low base rate environment. We anticipate the euro area economy to continue to strengthen in 2016 and this should support demand for NI exports in the year ahead. However, with sterling expected to remain relatively strong during 2016, the foreign exchange dilemma still presents significant uncertainty for local manufacturers. The recent publication of the NI Executive’s Budget announcing further infrastructure investment is very welcome. Significant investment in our connectivity, whether in IT, roads, rail or air-traffic, is an enabler to sustainable economic growth and this coupled with our ‘date and rate’ for corporation tax, will make Northern Ireland an even more attractive place for investors. In May there will be Assembly

elections which are likely to lead to an influx of new, first time MLAs and of course in recent weeks we have also seen two of the main parties appoint new leaders. I hope the new Assembly term will bring with it increased collaboration between the Assembly, the Executive and the business community, as we pursue the collective goal of helping Northern Ireland to realise its economic growth potential.

“ We anticipate the euro area economy to continue to strengthen in 2016 and this should support demand for NI exports in the year ahead.”

Eye on Business Leaders Forum Alan Bridle UK Economist, Bank of Ireland UK

016 will likely see another year of modest growth (forecast +1.2%) with NI continuing to lag UK and ROI performance with the resilience and capacity of the private sector being tested again, against the backdrop of spending restraint and rationalisation on public services. A two-speed regional economy will again be evident with consumer spending remaining the key driver of growth, underpinned by the favourable tailwinds of steady employment levels, a zero inflation outlook and typical wage growth of around 2%. It may not be the textbook scenario of export and investment-led growth and ultimately it may lose momentum but it is welcome nonetheless in a global economy that continues to generate both good and bad news. For Northern Ireland’s manufacturers, farmers and High St retailers, optimism is likely to be muted in the near-term with the headwinds unlikely to relent quickly. The recent softening in Sterling may offer some comfort and we should expect to see greater volatility on EU referendum uncertainty as the year progresses. In the housing economy, transaction volumes should remain at similar levels to 2015 with average prices rising by around 4%, supported

Andrea Hayes flybe UK General Manager (North and RoI)

ith 2016 nominated as the Year of Food and Drink, Northern Ireland has a great opportunity to showcase a core element of our tourism experience. Successfully promoted this ‘year’ has the potential to boost the local economy through increased visitor spend and growth in related businesses. However, easy access to Northern Ireland is vitally important if success is to be achieved. Airlines will play a critical role. High frequency, direct route flights at convenient times and competitively priced are the lifeblood of a sustainable tourism product and a growing local economy. To this end, our political leaders must address Air Passenger Duty. This punitive tax is doubly damaging especially for the domestic UK tourism market when passengers are hit twice when travelling. It also has major impact on our business sector. With local businesses increasingly travelling outside NI to find new work, particularly in the construction and IT sectors, their bottom line is being negatively impacted by the ongoing penalty of APD.

To enable Northern Ireland to compete globally, air connectivity is vital but it has to be at the right price. No APD on flights out of Dublin makes the Republic of Ireland an attractive FDI location. Our Scottish neighbours have also committed to reducing their APD by 50% during the life of the next parliament in Edinburgh with a view to complete abolition in the future. As we look forward to hosting the highly influential international ‘Air Routes’ conference in 2017, I would urge our political leaders to put our ‘air connectivity’ house in order this year in preparation Flybe has been proud to play its part supporting the local economy over the past 30 years and today offers links from 15 GB destinations into the heart of the city of Belfast. NI Executive, it’s over to you ….

“ To enable Northern Ireland to compete globally, air connectivity is vital but it has to be at the right price.”

by around £2 billion of new mortgage lending. While the rate of new builds is likely to increase in 2016, the rate of house price inflation will inevitably accelerate in the popular, in-demand locations. The commercial property market also enters 2016 with some positive momentum. With a tepid inflation outlook, manufacturing contracting and wage growth contained, the prospects of an early interest rate change remain slim with the Futures curve currently not pricing in a policy change in 2016. Despite some notable sector-specific difficulties, overall I detect a reasonably positive mood among businesses in their own prospects for 2016. However, as in 2015, I expect the pace of consolidation to quicken in sectors where competitive intensity remains high and organic growth continues to be very challenging. The Executive’s fresh start agreement, draft budget for 2016-17 and confirmation of corporation tax devolution in April 2018 provided some year-end cheer. As the next PfG is finalised, the challenge will be to balance longterm strategic goals – including addressing a growing infrastructure deficit – with short-term agility of decision-making and implementation.

Eye on Internet

I Was Going To Write A Shorter Letter But I Didn’t Have Time By Gareth Dunlop, Fathom.

Debate continues to this day as to who said it first, however variations on this theme have been attributed to physicists and physicians, philosophers and poets, priests and presidents alike. Luminaries no less than Blaise Pascal, Cicero, John Locke, Henry David Thoreau, Mark Twain, Benjamin Franklin and Woodrow Wilson have all been quoted saying something like it.

s far back as Roman times the quote was assigned to the Roman orator Cicero “Cicero excuses himself for having written a long letter, by saying he had not time to make it shorter.” In 1657 Pascal published a collection of open letters entitled Lettres Provinciales and within them notes “I have made this longer than usual because I have not had time to make it shorter.” A century later in 1750 Benjamin Franklin composed a letter describing his groundbreaking experiments involving electricity and sent it to a member of the Royal Society in London “I have already made this paper too long, for which I must crave pardon, not having now time to make it shorter.” According to an anecdote published in 1918 Woodrow Wilson was asked about the amount of time he spent preparing speeches, and his response was illuminating. “That depends on the length of the speech,” answered the President. “If it is a ten-minute speech it takes me all of two weeks to prepare it; if it is a half-hour speech it takes me a week; if I can talk as long as I want to it requires no preparation at all. I am ready now.” Regular readers will immediately identify the relevance of the sentiment to the world of web, where there is an inverse relationship between the heavy lifting done by the marketer and the lighter lifting done by the user. The organisation deals with the complexity in order to offer the user simplicity.

• I was going to develop a better website but I didn’t stop to think about the user’s needs or goals • I was going to write better content but I just cut and pasted from another source • I was going to make life easier for the user but I didn’t bother to commission any usability tests or other research The web’s great dichotomy is that the publisher and the reader are doing opposite things. The publisher is producing content. The reader is percolating content – and so the wrong content or too much content hinders, doesn’t help, the reader achieve what they wish to do. Bluntly put, content gets in their way. The Internet is legion with examples of organisations who have removed content and seen an uplift in customer satisfaction, task completion, on-boarding, online sales and conversion. Fathom helped a leading Irish online accounting company increase qualified in-bounds leads by 200% and free-trial sign-up by 85% by reducing the number of sign-up steps and the amount of content Over the years we have helped leading Irish telcos reduce call-centre queries significantly, saving them millions of Euro, by putting the right content at the right place in the customer journey, only displayed it when it is needed This is a trend which is mirrored the world over.

• No-one even noticed when The US Department of Health & Human Services deleted 150,000 of their 200,000 pages • Columbia College Chicago raised student enquiries by 80% by deleting 97% of their pages. Across the Internet, when web publishers take the time to write the shorter letter, users respond by reading it and acting on it.

Gareth Dunlop owns and runs Fathom, a user-experience consultancy which helps ambitious organisations get the most from their website and internet marketing by viewing the world from the perspective of their customers. Specialist areas include user-testing, usability and customer journey planning, web accessibility and integrated online marketing. Clients include Three, Ordnance Survey Ireland, PSNI, Permanent TSB and Tesco Mobile. Visit Fathom online at fathom.pro.

• Telenor of Norway doubled conversion and decreased support calls by 35% by removing 90% of their website

Eye on Film Industry

BELFAST ENTREPRENEUR COMMISSIONS ‘IRISH BANSHEE’ CREATION FROM INTERNATIONAL MAKE UP TEAM FOR LA SHOW

Titanic Creative Management founder Nuala Campbell was one of 75 exhibitors from across the globe at the annual IMATS (International Make Up Artist Trade Show) in Los Angeles earlier this month. The Belfast based entrepreneur, who runs the only film, TV and stage training academy of its kind in Northern Ireland, received a personal invitation to the show from the organisers who have not invited ‘a new outsider’ to participate in a number of years.

ccompanying Nuala at the exhibition was a specially commissioned live ‘Irish Banshee’ who was transformed by primetime EMMY nominated make up artist Brian Kinney, famed for his make up on Hunger Games films Mockingjay Parts I and II, during the three day show. The inspiration for the banshee came about following the creation of a unique style of prosthetic grade gelatine exclusively produced at Titanic Creative Management’s south Belfast workshop late last year. Nuala Campbell said: “It’s an honour to have been invited to the globally recognised IMATS and when we were thinking about how best to show potential customers what

our gelatine can do we decided that having it applied by an EMMY nominated make up artist was the best way to showscase its uniqueness and bring it to life.” Nuala enlisted the help of Game of Thrones and Harry Potter mould maker Dan Frye, sculptor Don Lanning, who has worked on Star Trek, Grey’s Anatomy and Pirates of the Caribbean and wig maker Andrew Whiteoak who has styled the likes of Rupert Everett, Stephanie Beacham and Gary Barlow, over the past month to create the masterpiece for pitching to what is probably one of the toughest markets in the industry. Nuala added: “I’m still pinching myself. What we have achieved in a short year is unimaginable. To be the only Irish company invited to participate at the IMATS is beyond anything we could have dreamed of when I set up Titanic Creative Management last year.” Back from LA, Nuala says she will be back to work at the Ormeau Road academy for elite makeup artists, hairdressers and costumiers for TV, film and stage giving young people the training they need to break into the industry. The next training session will be a mould-making workshop with international prosthetic artist, Dan Frye who is currently

working on the Titanic Creative Management Irish Banshee. The course will commence on Monday 25th January, there are a very limited number places still available on the course. www.titaniccreativemanagement.co.uk www.facebook.com/titaniccreativemgt www.twitter.com/titaniccreative www.instagram.com/titaniccreative

“ I’m still pinching myself. What we have achieved in a short year is unimaginable. To be the only Irish company invited to participate at the IMATS is beyond anything we could have dreamed of when I set up Titanic Creative Management last year.”

Eye on Giving

A FOCUSED APPROACH TO PHILANTHROPY Dr Joanne Stuart OBE , Director of Development Northern Ireland Science Park and former Chair IoD NI 2008-2011. 1. What are your thoughts, in general, on charitable giving? I believe that we all have something that we can do to help others, whether that be through giving time, money or passion. Working with a number of smaller charities I have seen at first hand the positive impact that charitable giving can have. We all have a responsibility to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;give backâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and a culture of giving leads to better society and sense of community. 2. Is your giving personal or corporate or a combination of both? My giving is a combination of both. Working for a not for profit, all of our surplus at the NI Science Park is invested in our programmes supporting entrepreneurs and working with young people to inspire them to achieve their potential. Our ethos is community over company, and we have a network of people who give their time on a pro-bono basis to help others to succeed. Our vision is to have one of the most entrepreneurial knowledge economies which will provide jobs and wealth. 3. How do you give to charity: monetarily, your own time as a volunteer or your specialist skills? My personal giving is a mix of all three. Most of my time is given on charitable boards. I chair Arts & Business NI, an organisation which advocates and brokers business based creative development to position the arts as a catalyst to help achieve business solutions, while securing new income streams for the arts and cultural sector. I am also treasurer for Tides Training, an organisation working in conflict resolution and mediation and Treasurer for Angel Eyes NI, a local charity supporting parents of blind and partially sighted children.

4. What types of causes do you favour and why? There are so many good causes, it is hard to choose. My approach is to work for and to support those charities with which I have a personal affinity or those that work in the areas that I am passionate about, such as education and innovation. Are there specific charities or causes that you give to regularly? How do you choose which to support? My niece and nephew are partially sighted and Angel Eyes NI was set up by my sister 8 years ago to address the lack of support for parents. This has been run on a voluntary basis and has grown from supporting a small number of families to now providing support to almost 500 families. As treasurer and trustee I am able to provide skills to help the charity grow in a sustainable way. In my professional career I am passionate about inspiring young people in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics and I really enjoy my time volunteering as a judge for BT Young Scientist and Young Enterprise. It also makes coming to work at the crack of dawn easier, as this is the one of the main purposes of the Science Park. 5. Do you believe that companies and individuals have a duty to help others? If yes, why? Absolutely, we have all at sometime been helped along the way, and it is good for us as individuals and as companies to spend time, energy and money supporting others. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know of any company which regrets a commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility. Global exemplar TATA is showing the world, a new business model of enterprise and innovation, founded on a Charity and whose bottom line is doing the right thing for society. At the Science Park we do a number of activities during the year to support charities and as a not-for profit invest our surpluses into our programmes to support

entrepreneurs and early stage companies with programmes at no cost to the participants. This is about creating a better society with more jobs and pathways into work which will help to sustain peace through prosperity. Personally speaking, it is very rewarding to work with charities and gives me a sense of purpose and perspective. 7. What is your message to business people who may be thinking about becoming more involved in strategic philanthropy? Get involved now! At Arts & Business NI we are able to show the business benefits that ensue from working with and supporting the Arts. For example, better staff engagement and development and brand enhancement. Taking a more strategic approach creates a positive impact for both the business and the charities. 8. Giving Northern Ireland was set up last year to champion Philanthropy. Why do you think it is important that there is an organisation that helps businesses and individuals think more strategically about giving? Creating a new culture needs a champion. Giving Northern Ireland has an important role to play in being an advocate for philanthropy both by business and the individual and provides a safe and creative space to talk openly about philanthropy. Celebrating those who are making a difference encourages others and the more businesses and individuals get involved the bigger and more positive impact there will be on our society.

Eye on Round Table

IF CHARITY BEGINS IN THE BOARDROOM, WHERE DOES IT FINISH, AND HOW? Charity, philanthropy, humanitarianism, or just old-fashioned social conscience - does business have a duty to invest some of its profits to promote the welfare of the less fortunate - and if it does, what’s the most effective way to do it?

usiness Eye teamed up with Giving Northern Ireland for a Round Table to explore philanthropy, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and to debate if it is possible – or even desirable - to develop strategies that are good for both corporate donors and their recipients.

Established in 2013, Giving Northern Ireland is a Northern Ireland champion for philanthropy, arguing for a more strategic approach to giving. In 2014 it joined forces with Business Eye and the Institute of Directors to run the Eye on Giving series, where Northern Ireland’s business leaders discuss

their personal take philanthropy and that of their organisations. The Round Table was made up of executives who have contributed to the feature series, Eye on Giving; it was hosted by PwC and chaired by Giving Northern Ireland’s Strategic Advisor Sandara KelsoRobb. Participants included:

Participants

Sandara Kelso-Robb (SKR) – Strategic Advisor, Giving Northern Ireland

Richard Buckley (RB) – Editor of Business Eye

Paul Terrington (PT) – regional Chairman of PwC in Northern Ireland

Esther Haller-Clarke (EHC) – Director of Type AB Consultancy

Peter Lunn (PL) Lunn’s Jewellers.

Peter McVerry (PMcV) – Station Director, U105

Dorcas Crawford (DC) – Senior Partner of Edwards & Company Solicitors

Grainne Walsh (GW) - Head of Consultancy, Stratagem

Leigh Yeaman (LY) Investment Director, Investec Wealth

Mary Trainor-Nagele (MTN) – Chief Executive Arts and Business Northern Ireland

Gary Mills (GM) – Chairman of Giving Northern Ireland

Eye on Round Table to commission research into that. That helped us realise just how significant the issue of privacy was for people in Northern Ireland; there are lots of things happening here but you don’t always discover what these are unless you are directly involved. Many people aren’t prepared to put their heads above the parapet and I want thank all of you for doing that and for contributing to the Eye on Giving articles and putting yourselves out there.

SKR - Northern Ireland faces some serious challenges: global economic difficulties are beyond our control and, closer to home, the UK government’s austerity programme is putting pressure on the block grant and on public spending her in Northern Ireland. These pressures are intensifying and there is a clear message from some quarters that business could - and should - be doing more. But, is the question one of not knowing what to do, not being asked to do more, not being engaged enough with the community, or does business know what it wants to but doesn’t have the time for real engagement? RB - Eye on Giving has worked very well for us in terms of content for the magazine because obviously we are trying to cover business in every aspect and one thing we had not been doing regularly was looking at the whole issue of philanthropy. We have been delighted to do it and this is a really good way to round it off because round tables, we think work extremely well. GW - What I want to hear is how small micro businesses such as ourselves can learn from larger organisations in terms of deriving maximum impact in terms of our Corporate Social Responsibility activities. LY – When I joined Investec, one of the first things that struck me was their approach to corporate citizenship and philanthropy and

I was really quite taken aback at how well it is done and I am interested to hear how other companies interpret it and how it is done outside as well. MTN - Arts & Business Northern Ireland supports the cultural sector to help strengthen it around their income, but we also work with the private sector in terms of bringing creativity and innovative thinking into business by way of the arts, so we are very much the connector between the two. So I am here really from two perspectives; one in terms of supporting the charity sector and arts charities and really trying to grow that whole culture of cultural philanthropy. But also obviously with the business community that we work with who are very much focused on corporate citizenship and corporate philanthropy. PT - From a PwC perspective I’m interested in the whole issue of what the purpose of philanthropy is for the company. I actually really hate the whole corporate and social responsibility terminology. It doesn’t feel like it reflects how we think about all of this. It is about everything we do coming together in a holistic way to drive towards a clear and given purpose and that includes the things that our people do, too.

EHC - We work mainly in cultural and tourism strategy and a number of our clients come to us knowing that they want to be engaged in something, but they don’t know what, or how to do become involved. They want the anonymity of the organisation name rather than giving as individuals but they also want authenticity in their giving and to know that their giving actually makes a difference. They’re anxious to see how donating makes a difference and they want long-term partnerships, so I am interested in how best to facilitate those objectives. DC - I think we underestimate the ‘feel good factor’ of giving so it’s not entirely selfless, it actually makes you feel great and our staff say they feel great when they get involved in a charity project; so, there’s a lot to be gained from engaging with your staff and getting them involved and the best events we’ve supported are ones where everybody was in on it. So, how can we take that further?

PMcV - One of the things that struck me whenever we initially started to look at it, was that we wanted to try to work with and connect with as many different audiences as possible. We were confident that whole area of giving and CSR was something that would give us a positive connection with our listeners and a positive connection with our clients. Many of them have a budget that they want to spend and others are coming to us to say well, what can you do to help us in a contra or ‘benefit in kind’ type initiative. PL - I have a real interest in this whole subject, so when Gary approached me about joining the Board of Giving Northern Ireland I thought it was something I’d like to become involved in. I was a founder and director of SOS Bus, and in our own business where we employ around 85 - 90 people on our various sites, mainly in Queen’s Arcade, I have a passion for this. But I have to say that our giving has been severely impacted by the recession so our aspirations have been difficult to deliver through difficult times. But this is not going to last for ever and better times will come back but I know there are impacts on charities today because there is not the same amount to give away. The final point I would make is that we are terrific in Northern Ireland, we are very generous but we are not as organised as we might be. So I think that is where Giving Northern Ireland comes in and it has a huge role to play to help us along that journey.

GM - Giving Northern Ireland’s business model would concentrate on creating a network of high net -worth individuals and our first piece of work was

Eye on Round Table

SKR - So… if there’s an appetite for Corporates to give, a need in the voluntary sector for donations or pro bono support, what are the barriers that keep them apart? What’s stopping that engagement from being more strategic, more planned and of more benefit to both? EHC - One of the most common errors is that the communication between both parties only begins when there is a need or a want and I think that is fundamentally wrong. Often they miss the point that nurturing long-term relationships between business and the voluntary sector makes the need more obvious, the appropriate support more apparent and that cements real long-term partnerships. MTN – That is one of the challenges that I hear, particularly from the cultural sector and there is a real frustration at the minute with the need to address this; they haven’t got the people or the capacity to properly grow strategic relationships and they get really frustrated by that. GM - Is there a role for professional advisers in putting those two sides together? LY - I think there is. Any of the events we have been involved are very centred on knowing your client and knowing your contacts and bringing those together. The real value of doing that is that putting them in touch with one another cements culture, people and relationships.

GW – There are challenges for business too. It’s difficult from a corporate perspective if you are being asked to demonstrate return on investment on financial or pro bono support, particularly if the organisation you’re engaging with can’t quite deliver on expectations, because that haven’t the resources or the capacity. Coming back to what you said about purpose: it has to be led, it has to be more strategic than just the whim or the personal interest of a couple of key people in the organisation. Support needs to be integrated into the business model; that’s essential but it means investing time and being comfortable with that time investment. That’s challenging, very challenging, particularly in a small businesses. DC - Time investment is a genuine challenge, especially in the current economic climate where margins are tight and you don’t have spare people. Ten years ago we maybe had an extra junior solicitor or we had an extra secretary, or people who had extra time. But now everybody’s working absolutely nose to the grindstone. LY - It’s definitely easier within an organisation where the ethos and culture accept that philanthropy is genuinely part of their business and not just a tick box exercise. That’s a culture where no one feels guilty for giving up your time during working hours to go and do something

for the community good. We actually have a department whose job is organisational development, to reinforce the culture and to oversee the different projects throughout the group are taking place. DC - Does that mean that there’s actually a case for an organisation that would act like a consultant and come in and help, maybe do some of the research or background work? Is there a place for some kind of facilitation by another organisation to interact with small companies that really want to raise funds or make some sort of community or cultural contribution, but who says, “… we’re really stretched, could somebody come in and help us?” SKR - One of the areas we are looking at in Giving Northern Ireland is the services that we can provide in terms of our expertise and intelligence. We have already generated over £250,000 for the sector and we haven’t taken any fees or any commission on that because of the financial support we have had from the Atlantic Philanthropies and from the Lloyds Bank Foundation for NI. As Giving NI has been building up services, I’ve been speaking to quite a few Corporates about how they can engage and 14 months ago I talked to PwC about setting up a Partners’ Giving Circle. So, could new philanthropy models like that be rolled out throughout the Corporate Sector in NI?

PT - Yes, it was interesting looking at how we could come together to create a Giving Circle. Our business people work in many different locations across the UK a so there is a question of logistics in how to create a Giving Circle that can meet regularly. We have four dinners a year and pretty well everyone shows up so there is potential to have a successful giving circle. During these dinners, the partners talk about the things they are involved with in charitable terms outside the firm. We have been pretty good at raising money and at identifying causes that we would like to support. But we have been less effective in distributing the money and that is something we needed to address. We have actually dubbed ourselves ‘the non-giving circle’ so this is an area where I thought Giving Northern Ireland could help in an advisory role. Sandara came along and talked to us about engaging with the issues rather than distributing the money. One of our challenges was to actually engage with a cause and build up a group consensus of the sort of help and support that we can deliver. Giving Northern Ireland has been a great benefit in explaining how to achieve this so the benefits of consultation has been terrific. So, maybe the solution lies in identifying the issues or cause, building the long-term relationships that define the nature of the support and then engaging with organisations like Giving Northern Ireland to help manage the delivery.

Eye on Events

CROSS COMMUNITY SUPPORT ANGELS INVEST IN THE HOSPICE

ictured celebrating Co-operation Ireland’s Ulster Bank Skills & Opportunities Fund award are, from left: Anne Porter (Director of Operations, Co-operation Ireland) Jordan McKeag, Sean Murphy (Regional Managing Director Branch and Private Banking Ulster Bank) Chantelle Shields

and Youth Officer Mark West. Co-operation Ireland received a £9,600 funding award to enable them to a support a Lower Shankill based crosscommunity group of 10 young people aged 17 -20 and help them develop improved job prospects and a brighter future in both life and the world of work.

usiness angels are more familiar with investing in high-growth startups, but a recent event at Halo, the Northern Ireland business angel network, resulted in a £28,000 “investment” into the NI Hospice. In a UK first, the charity did a full pitch alongside more conventional pitching

businesses to over 50 angels at a Halo meeting at the Belfast Harbour Commissioners. Five anonymous angels “invested” £5,000 each, while £3,000 was raised from a table ballot on the night. Halo Director Alan Watts (right) is pictured with the Chairman of the NI Hospice, Paul Terrington.

Eye on Events

25 YEARS OF THE CULLODEN SPA

ir William Hastings was joined by Rachel Crawford, Manager of The Spa at Culloden and Adrian McNally, General Manager of the Culloden Estate and Spa to celebrate 25 spa-tacular years of

business. The Spa at Culloden was one of Northern Ireland’s very first spas when it opened its doors in 1990 and was a ground-breaking concept when Sir William Hastings launched it at Northern Ireland’s premier 5-star hotel.

RAINBOW DRIVES SUCCESS FOR EDS

tuart Carson, Director of Sales and Marketing at Rainbow Communications is pictured with David Neill, Managing Director at Express Distribution Services (EDS). Northern Ireland’s leading independent telecoms provider, Rainbow Communications, has signed a

new £250,000 contract to provide EDS with all of its telecoms requirements including online tracking of all EDS vehicles, live tachograph, monitoring of driver behaviour and the provision of over 50 sim-cards to enable EDS to maximise on their existing telecoms hardware investment.

MINIBUS BOOST FOR CHARITY

LAW SOCIETY LINKS WITH CLIC SARGENT

he Law Society of Northern Ireland has announced that CLIC Sargent will be its chosen charity of the year for 2016. Commenting the President of the Law Society, John Guerin said: “CLIC Sargent is the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people, and their families. They provide clinical, practical, financial and

emotional support to help them cope with cancer and get the most out of life. I am delighted as President of the Law Society that we will have an opportunity to work with CLIC Sargent by supporting them in their various projects through awareness and fund raising initiatives.” John Guerin is pictured with Nadine Campbell, Fundraising Manager at CLIC Sargent.

he Cancer Fund for Children is celebrating winning a brand new minibus that will be used to transport children affected by cancer to stay at the charity’s Narnia log cabin in Newcastle, County Down. The charity that provides support for local children affected by cancer and their families, won the minibus from the LV= Broker Big Heart Minibus Giveaway through an online vote after kindly being nominated by local broker CIP Insurance. An impressive feat with over 65 charities nominated throughout the UK. The new bus was officially handed over to the charity by CIP Insurance and LV=

Insurance at Daisy Lodge, Cancer Fund for Children’s therapeutic short break facility at the foothills of the Mourne Mountains. CIP Insurance has been supporting Cancer Fund for Children for two years and has raised money for the charity by hosting a variety of fundraising events. Mike Crane of LV and Paul Williamson of CIP Insurance Brokers are pictured at Daisy Lodge with Gillian Creevy, Chief Executive of the NI Cancer Fund for Children. To find out more about Cancer Fund for Children’s services or how you can get involved visit www.cancerfundforchildren. com or call 028 9080 5599.

Eye on News

NI SCHOOLS SHINE IN BT YOUNG SCIENTIST EVENT Beating off stiff competition from a total of 26 Northern Ireland finalists, St Patrick’s High School in Armagh picked up the award for Best Northern Ireland School and BT Northern Ireland Best Project at the big BT Young Scientist Awards & Technology Exhibition in Dublin this month.

he St. Pats project, entitled ‘Power Down to Power Up’, was entered in the Social & Behavioural Sciences category at junior level and the group also received 2nd Place in the Social & Behavioural Junior Group for their entry. A second project entered by the school entitled ‘An investigation into how foam reduces spillages in

liquids’ in the Chemical, Physical & Mathematical Sciences category at junior level was also highly commended. St Catherine’s College in Armagh received the ‘BT-Best Project in Irish’ Award for their project ‘Eiseapláinéid a Fhiosrú’. They were also highly commended for the same project in the Chemical, Physical & Mathematical Sciences category at intermediate level. A second project from St Catherine’s College was also highly commended - ‘Irish dancing is a sport, not just a hobby’ in the Biological and Ecological category at junior level. Other Northern award winners were: • St Killian’s College in Antrim picked up 3rd Place in the ‘Technology Junior Group’ for their project ‘Speed Alert Shamer’ and they were also highly commended for their project ‘Distance Diagnostics’ in the Technology category at junior level.

The St Patricks High School, Armagh, team with NI Education Minister John O’Dowd.

• Rathmore Gs in Antrim were highly commended for their project ‘Dry Your Eyes’ which was entered into the Biological & Ecological category at intermediate level. • Ballymena Academy in Antrim were highly commended for their project ‘Apollo 10D’ which was entered into the Chemical, Physical & Mathematical Sciences category at intermediate level. • South Eastern Regional CollegeBangor Campus were highly commended for their project ‘Investigating the antibacterial effects of honey’ in the Biological & Ecological category at senior level. • St Mary’s College in Derry-Londonderry were highly commended for two projects in the Chemical, Physical

& Mathematical Sciences category for their projects ‘Investigating the effect of reheating pasta on the rate of digestion of its starch by amylase’ at intermediate level and ‘Investigating the effect of various dietary supplements on the activity of lipase in digesting fat’ at junior level. Alex Crossan, Managing Director Networks, BT Northern Ireland, said; “We are proud that the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition continues to act as a springboard for future entrepreneurs, academics, scientists and technologists and we have countless past winners who are proof of that. I would like to sincerely congratulate every single student who took part this week and to the thousands of other students who submitted a project but unfortunately didn’t qualify.“

ACTION RENEWABLES AWARDS LAUNCHED FOR 2016

eaming up with event sponsors including renewable electricity supplier Vayu and Tughans Solicitors at Titanic Belfast, Action Renewables recently announced that this year’s annual awards luncheon will take place at the iconic Titanic Belfast on Thursday 31st March 2016. Now in their 8th year, the Action Renewables Awards are recognised as the flagship awards of the renewables industry in Northern Ireland. Ciaran McConville, Business Development and Marketing Assistant, Action Renewables, said at the awards launch that 2016’s event would be the best yet. “Now in their eighth year the Action Renewables Awards have gained more and more momentum and popularity with each year, and has become a key event in the Northern Ireland Business calendar.” said Ciaran. “We’re delighted to welcome back event host Jamie Delargy and

our esteemed panel of judges for 2016, which includes industry experts Carol Forster, Operations Manager, NIEL; Jim Kitchen, Director, Sustainable NI; Dr Robin Curry, Queen’s University Belfast’s School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; and Andy McCrea, Renewable Energy Consultant. The high calibre of industry figures who attend the annual event teamed with the stunning modern venue of Titanic Belfast will help to make this year’s event one to remember.” With expertise in diverse areas of renewables development and practice, the 2016 judging panel represents all facets of the industry in Northern Ireland. “It is a pleasure to be invited to judge the Action Renewables Awards again this year,” said Carol Forster, Northern Ireland Environment Link. “The initiative has grown from strength to strength and is a wonderful way to showcase and celebrate excellence in the renewable energy sector.”

Pictured at the launch of the 2016 Action Renewables Awards at Titanic Belfast are Ciaran McConville, Action Renewables, Mary Rossiter, Vayu, and Maria O’Loan, Tughans.

The deadline for entry to the 2016 Action Renewables Awards is 5pm Monday 15th February 2016. Winners will be announced at the flagship industry awards event held at Titanic Belfast in

advance of a gourmet lunch and afternoon networking event on Thursday 31st March. To download an entry pack or book a place at the awards visit www.actionrenewables.co.uk.

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Eye on Business & Education

BDO AND DANSKE BANK TAKE BUSINESS MESSAGE BACK TO SCHOOL

Most companies in Northern Ireland will claim to have a serious commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and in fairness we do have a track record of ‘giving something back’ across the local business community.

ver the last three months Laura Jackson from business advisory firm BDO has teamed up with Angela McGowan from Danske Bank and taken the CSR ethos one step further, by taking the pro business message directly into classrooms across Northern Ireland. Since October the pair of leading business figures have together visited seven local schools and met with more than 500 final year pupils delivering the message that all students have a role to

play in making Northern Ireland a successful business region. Laura, a Partner in BDO, explains why both organisations felt the need to extend the relationship with future business leaders beyond placements and work experience. “A one week work experience placement for a 16 or 17 year old is a useful way of opening up what can be the mysterious world of business and the workplace. But we wanted to spread the message that everyone, from all socio-economic backgrounds and both genders, has a role to play in driving this region forward. In fact both Danske Bank and BDO made a point of also visiting schools where traditionally there has not been a track record of high academic achievement or ambitions around entrepreneurship and a career in business. “Accountancy and business advice is one such route open to young people but there are unlimited ways for today’s school leavers to make their mark on the future economy. “Getting out of the boardroom and into the classroom helps remove the barriers between the schools and the economy. It was a refreshing series of visits and one

we hope to carry on in 2016.” Danske Bank’s Chief Economist Angela McGowan explained the rationale behind the Bank’s involvement in the series of visits. “From Danske Bank’s point of view, we want to operate in a thriving economy, that cannot happen unless everyone is participating and achieving their full potential; so we wholly embrace our part in making that happen in the long term. That is why we cherish these school visits so much. We want to play our part in ensuring that the NI economy has a pipeline of engaged, committed and ambitious young people. “Young people can sometimes feel that the economy is remote, nothing to do with them. That is not the case and we want to get that message across. So our engagement with pupils is about inclusion as well as encouraging and motivating young people to take ownership of their own careers and the local economic direction. We can go back to schools like Belfast Royal Academy, where Laura and I both received our education, and try and make a difference”. “Young people are street smart and globally aware. We want them

to understand that the shape of the economy is changing constantly and new opportunities are continually emerging. For example, ten years ago there was no i-cloud or social media managers and many other emerging technologies were not even on the agenda. We cannot know precisely what the leading business sectors will be 10 years from now; but we must have confidence that our future workforce is prepared to be flexible and engage in all opportunities available. They should also consider entrepreneurship as a viable business career.” Angela feels that recent job losses in Michelin and elsewhere can lead to a pessimistic view of the local economy. “Of course the loss of major employers like Michelin and JTI/ Gallagher is a blow to those who work there but beyond the headlines there are new and exciting sectors emerging all the time - both globally and locally. Indeed, if managed well, the impending reduction in Corporation Tax should lead to rising demand for employees with a range of skill sets and experience.” Both Laura and Angela are renowned within their own organisations for fostering fresh talent and mentoring less experienced colleagues. Laura says the visits to schools over the last few months is an extension of that mentoring approach. “It is important to reach out to pupils well before they reach the end of their school days. There is no mystery about the business world and exciting careers, including self employment are open to everyone, even if they have had setbacks in exams or school work. “Going back to the classroom, even to our own old school, is refreshing and in fact we got as much encouragement out of the discussions as the pupils did. There is a wealth of talent in Northern Ireland classrooms and in BDO we will keep working with Danske Bank to foster that talent and point the way to the possible careers in business.”

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Eye on News

CIPD NI AWARDS 2016 LAUNCHED AT TITANIC BELFAST Outstanding achievements within the HR profession will be celebrated at the CIPD Northern Ireland Awards 2016 gala.

itanic Belfast is this year’s venue for an event which is now firmly established on the Human Resources calendar. At the gala on May 19 awards will be presented to teams, individuals and organisations, highlighting the depth of excellence within the profession in Northern Ireland. Recruitment specialists Brightwater are the principal sponsor. The categories have been amended for 2016 with the addition of the Talent Management Programme of the Year and Most Effective Recruitment Strategy prizes. They

replace Change Management and Building HR Capability accolades. Once again there will be 10 category prizes. The other categories are: Consultant or Consultancy Team of the Year; HR Team of the Year; Best Employee Engagement Strategy; HR Director of the Year; Health and Wellbeing Award; Most Effective Organisational Learning and Development Strategy; Outstanding HR Student of the Year and Most Effective Recruitment Strategy. CIPD NI’s Executive Committee will also be presenting the Chair’s Special Achievement Award, which

will recognise an individual, team or organisation who has made a significant contribution to the profession in Northern Ireland. In all categories the judges will be looking for clear evidence that a particular people management and development initiative or project contributed to organisational sustainability and success plus innovation and creativity that set standards of best practice. Launching the awards, Stephanie Mulholland of Brightwater said: “We are delighted to be supporting the CIPD as headline sponsor for the fourth year running. We have a strong relationship with the CIPD and the HR community in Northern Ireland so it’s great to sponsor these awards where you get to see so much HR talent in the one room, celebrating successes and recognising new initiatives in organisations across the province. “Last year’s event in Belfast City Hall

was superb. There was a really positive, celebratory and competitive mood in the room and it made for a fantastic evening.” Beth McMaw, Event Lead at CIPD NI, said she is confident Titanic Belfast will be another great venue for the gala. She explained the awards provide a fantastic opportunity for Northern Ireland’s HR and personnel development professionals to gain recognition for the quality of the work and innovation they are delivering across the private, public and voluntary sectors. Beth added: “We are very excited about taking this event to the iconic Titanic Belfast building. I would urge individuals and employers, large and small, to enter the awards this year.” The CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, has more than 3000 members in Northern Ireland. Entries are now open (note: they open on Jan 29) and the closing date is March 18.

of Visit Belfast added: “The huge popularity of world-class attractions such as Titanic Belfast and Giant’s Causeway coupled with the international appeal of Game of Thrones and our world-class golf courses is helping profile Northern Ireland’s appeal as a destination. The feedback from cruise operators is that Belfast remains one of their passengers’ most popular ports of call. “Visit Belfast will continue to work with Belfast Harbour and the city’s tourism providers to ensure that passengers have every opportunity to see the very best that Belfast has to offer.” Among the ships calling next year will be Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, launched in 2010 at a cost of £350m. The largest

vessel due is Princess Cruise’s Regal Princess with 5,100 passengers and crew, whilst the smallest will be All Leisure’s Hebridean Princess with just 74. The first visitor will be the MV Astoria in March as part of a British Isles cruise. August 2016 will be the city’s busiest cruise month ever with 26 calls expected. During the year there will also be a number of cruises embarking from the port. In recent years cruise lines operating western European itineraries have been introducing larger and longer vessels which require deeper channels and additional quay space. To accommodate these next-generation cruise ships and the increased popularity of Belfast, Belfast Harbour has plans to develop a new, dedicated cruise facility.

RECORD CRUISE SEASON ANNOUNCED FOR BELFAST Cruise Belfast has announced that 2016 will be the busiest cruise season in the city’s history with over 145,000 passengers and crew due to visit, representing a 26% increase in visitor numbers compared with 2015.

elfast Harbour will play host to 81 cruise calls in 2016, carrying passengers from around the world with the cruise industry’s best known operators once again scheduling Belfast, including Princess Cruise, Celebrity Cruise and P&O. Joe O’Neill, Belfast Harbour’s Commercial Director, said: “This is a fantastic announcement for Northern Ireland’s tourism industry with thousands of first time visitors getting the chance to sample the region’s great scenery, attractions, warm welcome and hospitality. “In the past five years we have almost doubled the number of cruise ships calling into Belfast which is a major achievement and a tremendous vote of confidence in Northern Ireland’s tourism offer. “Most of the major lines operating in

western Europe now call at Belfast and it’s particularly pleasing that year on year they have increased the number of calls they make to the city.” Several cruise operators have significantly increased the number of times they plan to call at Belfast this year. UK-based Cruise & Maritime Voyages is scheduled to call a total of eight times following the successful single call of its cruise ship the MV Magellan in 2015. Fred Olsen Cruise Line has also increased the number of its calls from seven in 2015 to a total of 11 visits in 2016. Larger ships are also strongly represented, with US-based Princess Cruises continuing to show strong support for Belfast and Northern Ireland with a total of 11 large cruise ships due to call carrying a total of 53,000 visitors. Gerry Lennon, Chief Executive

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Eye on Moving On Osborne King Commercial Property Consultants has announced a number of 1 staff promotions. Gail Prentice-Jackson assumes the position of Associate Director within the company’s Property and Asset Management Department. Gail joined the company in 2015 following the merger of Ardmore Commercial and Osborne King. 2 Chris Sweeney has also been promoted to the position of Associate Director within Osborne King’s general agency division. A graduate from Northumbria University, he joined Osborne King in 2005 and is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

1 Gail Prentice-Jackson

2 Chris Sweeney

3 Michael Potter

3 Michael Potter has been appointed Associate Director within the Osborne King’s Advisory division. A graduate in Estate Management from the University of Ulster, he spent 11 years with Ardmore Commercial before joining Osborne King earlier this year. 4 Richard McCaig assumes the position of Associate Director within the transactional department of Osborne King. He joined Osborne King in 2007 and is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors 5 Harry Crosby has been appointed Senior Surveyor within the Professional/ Advisory Departments. He joined Osborne King in 2010 and is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

4 Richard McCaig

5 Harry Crosby

6 Thomas Osborne

6 Thomas Osborne has been promoted to the position of Senior Surveyor within Osborne King’s Licensed and Leisure & Auction divisions. A graduate from the University of Ulster, he joined Osborne King in 2011. 7 Niall Watson becomes Delivery Executive – New Business & Mobilisation at Fujitsu Belfast. He has worked for Fujitsu for 18 years on the delivery of managed service contracts. Belfast law firm TLT has announced three 8 new appointments. Anna Vangrove joins TLRT from another leading law firm as an Associate specialising in banking and finance. 9 Peter McGrath is also appointed as an Associate specialising in commercial and 10 banking litigation while Michael Wilson becomes a Solicitor with TLT to advise clients on environmental and planning matters.

7 Niall Watson

8 Anna Vangrove

9 Peter McGrath

11 Maynard Mawhinney has been appointed to the Board of Around Noon, the Newry-based specialist in ‘food to go’ solutions. He is a former Director of Food and Tourism at Invest Northern Ireland and is a Board member of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise. Head of Private Client at Cleaver Fulton 12 Rankin, Michael Graham, has become a Full Accredited Member of Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE) following completion of the Older Client in Law Practice Award. Michael is one of only three such members of SFE in Northern Ireland. SFE is an independent, national organisation of lawyers, such as solicitors, barristers, and chartered legal executives who provide specialist legal advice for older and vulnerable people, their families and carers.

10 Michael Wilson

11 Maynard Mawhinney

12 Michael Graham

Eye on News

TAPAS TAKES OVER AT LANDMARK SITE A landmark city centre location has been transformed into a new tapas bar and casual dining venue and is poised to capitalise on the pre-Christmas rush.

he building, in Wellington Place, well known in decades past as The Wimpy and Carlton Bar, will now be known as the Solo Kitchen and Bar. Owner Michael Karan has invested more than £250,000 into the building which has become Belfast city centre’s only tapas bar. Up to 20 people will be employed within Solo. Michael, who also owns the Ambrosia Restaurant on the Ormeau Road, believes Solo will be particularly appealing to the

local business community and those seeking a served lunch or evening dining experience in the heart of the city. “Research has shown that people choose where they eat depending on how convenient it is to get to. Our position makes us uniquely attractive for our city centre customer base. “Overall Solo Kitchen and Bar will accommodate 120 people, 40 of which will be in our new tapas bar and the remainder in our casual

Pictured launching Solo are Anthony O’Neill (waiter) with Zoe Benson from Lisburn and Daniel McCavery from Moira.

dining area where customers will be offered an eclectic mix of Asian and European food. We have a small but very highly experienced team and we believe the time is right to offer Belfast something different. “Our client research shows clearly that the Belfast palette has

changed significantly and is much more international nowadays. Our tapas offering can be enjoyed as part of an overall dining experience or as a stand-alone treat. We’re delighted to be part of the food revolution that is clearly present in Belfast at the moment.”

ASDA RENEWS COMMITMENT TO NI Asda has reaffirmed its commitment to the Northern Ireland market as it unveils plans to invest a further £3 million during 2016 to enhance its store network.

ddressing an audience of industry stakeholders, Asda President and CEO, Andy Clarke, said that after ten years of successful retailing in Northern Ireland, he is pleased with the performance of the region’s 17 stores and paid tribute to colleagues and customers alike for their continued support. The news comes after Clarke pledged an additional £500m investment in lowering prices as he predicted another year of intense pressure for supermarket retailers against a turbulent global economic backdrop, in which he signalled the need for impactful changes and decisive action to make sure that Asda remains not only a viable business, but a strong market-leading one. “We’ve enjoyed ten years of strong retailing here and look forward to more growth in the future,” said Clarke. “There’s no doubt that the retail sector as a whole has permanently changed to reflect the shopping habits of customers today.

“But we know our customers better than anyone else and we need to structure our offer to meet their changing needs. This knowledge has shaped our plans to make our bigger stores easier to shop, laying them out in a way that’s relevant to today’s customers by removing fringe, marginal ranges and providing services that they need. We call this Project Renewal and the £3m investment is specifically designed to continue to meet the demands of our customers in Northern Ireland” According to the data from market analysts, Kantar, Asda’s market share In Northern Ireland grew to 17.4%, an increase of 2.2% YOY, with online growth showing a marked increase of 22.5% YOY – equating to 5.9% of total sales. Reflecting on the wider business challenges faced by retailers, Clarke added: “The Northern Ireland market continues to be important offering great potential, and while the wider UK market context may mean that we

Asda CEO Andy Clarke.

have to re-assess our involvement in some developments, we are committed to investing £3million in eight of our Northern Ireland stores, including £¾ million in a new Petrol Filling Station in Strabane” During his visit, Clarke also highlighted the success of Asda’s local sourcing policy. With over £300million of produce being annually sourced from 105 Island of Ireland food producers, Asda has played a significant role in boosting the local agri-food sector by creating export opportunities. To help drive its local supply model forward and create new business opportunities for local companies, Asda today launched its Supplier Development Academy. Eleven local food processing

companies will participate in the six month programme which aims to boost innovation, generate additional sales and optimise export opportunities via Asda’s GB store network. “As part of our commitment to Year of Food & Drink, we’re proud to support our suppliers through this unique Academy which is entirely focused on growth. When we first ran this initiative in 2012, participating suppliers achieved a combined sales increase of 20% and we hope to replicate this in 2016 – particularly by helping these suppliers gain more shelf space in our GB stores. “This also reflects how we are responding to our NI customers who have sent the clear message that they want to be able to buy the local products that they trust and enjoy,” Clarke added.

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Eye on Motoring

Personal Contract Hire: The Most Effective Way To Finance Your New Vehicle “If it appreciates, buy it. If it depreciates, lease it” J.Paul Getty

o buy or to lease? When it comes to personal vehicles, it’s an important question. If you’re buying, do you pay by cash, bank loan, or do you opt for a Hire Purchase plan. What about other costs that should be factored into the purchase price, such as fuel consumption and servicing? What are they and how do you estimate them upfront? Perhaps you should follow Mr Getty’s advice and lease. You won’t own the asset, but do you really want a depreciating asset sitting on your driveway? One you later have the hassle of disposing off, or selling. Calculating ‘Whole Life Costs’ Being in a position to accurately estimate the total cost of driving a car will help keep your personal costs under control. To calculate the total costs of operating a personal vehicle you need to consider more than just the purchase price. Many individuals often focus on capital costs of acquisition only. Others account for fuel consumption but don’t factor in depreciation. Yet, according to CAP Automotive, depreciation will cost the typical motorist three times as much as they spend at the petrol pump. The drop in value from depreciation varies between makes and models, but typically a new car will lose at least 50% of its value after three years. Buying a used vehicle will dampen the depreciation, but this can increase other whole life costs, all which need to be taken into consideration.

There is arguably no better way to manage depreciation costs than with personal Contract Hire. This is because your monthly payments are primarily based on the difference in value between the brand new vehicle when you take out the lease and the residual value when you return it. This means at the end of the contract you simply hand back the car without having to worry about depreciation or resale. Time and stress Those are some of the financial costs of running your vehicle, but the real headache for many individuals is the time and hassle it takes to manage their vehicle, particularly when operating on a busy schedule. Time spend co-ordinating and arranging road tax renewals, insurance, breakdown cover, scheduled servicing appointments, dealing with unexpected maintenance issues. Also the time spent meeting and negotiating if you chose to sell the vehicle. All of these can be a real headache for individuals who have more important things to worry about. With Personal Contract Hire all of these hassles can be avoided. Immediate benefits Personal Contract Hire is an increasingly popular method of funding a personal vehicle, with more and more individuals opting for this method. It’s a simple process, you choose the vehicle and it’s ordered for you. With

Personal Contract Hire you will start to receive numerous benefits when it comes to financing, running and effectively managing your vehicle; • Drive away in a brand new car that otherwise may have been out of your price range in terms of purchase price • Drive a brand new model every 2-4 years without having to worry about resale value • Pay a competitive fixed monthly amount to make your budgeting simpler • Low initial payment so you won’t be out large sums of money • Low fixed monthly repayments (usually 35%-55% less costly that car loan repayments) • Eliminate the risks surrounding vehicle depreciation and maintenance • Hassle free driving Choose a company who best meets your needs DFC and its funding partners purchase over 50,000 vehicles every year, and are experts in negotiating substantial discounts with manufacturers. We can then pass these savings onto you in terms of competitive rates. Through our major European Banking partners we also have access to competitive finance rates and the provision for unlimited funding. We believe that the spirit of vehicle management is a fixed monthly payment, with no hidden extra charges to be paid at the end of the contract. We are committed to managing contract costs, such as over contract mileage, refurbishment and termination costs during the contract period.

Local Company Local People Local Service 90

Should your contract situation change, i.e. increase in mileage, early termination or contract extension, come and talk to us. At DFC, we believe in long term relationships with our customers and therefore we understand that there may be an element of flexibility needed to ensure that we maintain a strong relationship. Choosing an independent company At DFC we are totally independent, and because we are not tied to any vehicle manufacture or dealership we can actively search the entire marketplace to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget requirements. We are trusted by our customers to provide honest, impartial advice and guide you through the selection process. Summary To summarise we at DFC want to show you how you can drive a brand new car of your choice with servicing, maintenance, replacement tyres and even road tax included, while avoiding paying a large deposit and eliminating any depreciation concerns. We understand that financing new car can be a big decision and we want to ensure that we guide you through the best options and find you the perfect car. We are confident that meeting up with us will result in both cost and time savings for you.

To find out more please call us on 028 9073 4222 or email sales@dfcbelfast.co.uk

DFC is Northern Ireland’s only major independent locally owned Vehicle management company. For 25 years DFC have supplied, funded and managed cars and vans. We are confident we can provide a cost effective solution for your business or individual needs.

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Eye on Motoring

dfcbelfast.co.uk Motoring with Derek Black dbmotoring@btinternet.com

SMOOTH SORENTO SHOWCASES WHERE KIA HAS GOT TO! Kia has moved from cheap and cheerful to good looking and good value. The new Sorento is a good example of this - its sleek lines and improved engines make it look more desirable than before.

hey have been beavering away at this machine and it now feels more of a quality item. Loaded with equipment, it now boasts seven seats which can be folded down to offer

decent load carrying capacity. You sit high and comfortably behind the wheel and the Sorento turns out to be quiet and relaxed to drive. It seems quite plush inside and four-wheel drive is standard - easy to deploy and giving grip enough for muddy fields or during a blizzard. Good for towing too. I am impressed by the development of the 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine which now develops a beefy 200PS and loads of torque. It handles the

bigger and heavier Sorento with no difficulty. But a vehicle of this size and calibre is never going to handle like a sports car. Nor is it going to be the greenest thing on the road. Still it is as easy to handle as most big SUVs and the combined cycle mpg of 49mpg with the six-speed manual gearbox with emissions of 149g/km are on par for its class. The automatic raises the emissions to 177g/km. The new Sorento may cost a

couple of grand more but has a lot of kit. You get a 7-inch screen on the KX-2 trim instead of the little 4.3-inch. Better equipped than a similar size BMW, Audi or Volvo, you can add a lot of high tech options and still be quids in. They even supply a full size spare tyre! Prices range from £28,785 to £41,000 (gulp) and are another indication of the progress that Kia has made over the last decade. And don’t forget that 7 year warranty!

room, not that it needed that. As always there are the little Skoda details such as an umbrella hidden in each front door and a rechargeable torch in the boot. There is a good range of diesel choices. My car had the 1.6-litre TDi engine, perhaps a little on the small side for this big estate. It worked hard to reach 62mph from rest in 11 seconds but records a 67mpg combined and emissions of 109g/km. (The Greenline economy special does even better) Move up to the 2.0-litre TDI 150 and you have a livelier drive

knocking more than two seconds off the sprint time. It may cost a bit more but economy and emissions do not suffer as it actually returns 68mpg combined and emits a similar 109g/km! The lesson of this is that smaller engine have to work harder depending on your driving style and this can affect economy. The improved interior is well organised with a 6.5-inch touch screen as standard and an optional 8-inch screen that adds a DVD player and in-car WiFi! It is so spacious, particularly in the

rear and the boot is bigger than most cars and sport utilities. Skoda is rightly confident that the new Superb will grow its presence in the company car market. They have even come up with a tempting SE Business edition that features part leather seats, lumbar support and good quality infotainment system. Fitted with the more desirable 150PS 2.0-litre diesel engine it is priced from £23,290. Other Superb estate models feature 1.4 turbo petrol engines and are priced from £18,585.

SUPERB STILL OFFERS SPACE AND VALUE THIRD TIME AROUND! The Superb has lived up to its name as a roomy and high value business car. It has those very desirable VW turbo diesel engines and a lot of features and details recognisable from more expensive cars such as the Passat.

have been driving the 3rd-generation Superb Estate and find that it carries on the tradition but with more refinements and a little more

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Eye on Motoring

dfcbelfast.co.uk Motoring with Derek Black dbmotoring@btinternet.com

IT’S THE AURIS ALL SORTS - PETROL, DIESEL AND HYBRID! Let’s be frank, the first generation Auris got off to a bland start and failed to continue the success of the Corolla. Second time around, it is much improved and is in the running as the most under-rated car of today.

smarr looker, especially in this rakish Touring estate version, some people might consider it still a tad boring. But what is boring about a car that starts first time every morning year after year, is easy to drive and feels as if it will keep going for ever? As a company car, it has a lot going for it. The model that I drove had a new 1.2-litre turbo

petrol engine that produces 114bhp and gives reasonable every day performance with 0-62mph in 10.8 seconds. This little engine is full of eagerness and shifts a fairsized machine without fluffing. While the CVT transmission may not appeal to keen drivers it just gets on with its job and takes the strain out of city driving. It does the business with 58mpg on the Combined

Cycle, emissions of 110g/ km and a BIK rating of 17%. I have also driven the Auris in hybrid form, which works very well and looks more like a ‘proper’ car than a Prius. In this format you are talking 78mpg and 85g/km which is appealing. This brings it down to 13% BIK! There is also a 1.4 diesel (16% BIK) - another appealing choice Inside you get a clear and simple layout with a central

touch screen that works fairly intuitively. There is reasonable space front and rear with a seriously useful boot. There is good sixspeaker sound, reversing camera and a DAB radio on the Icon model I drove. My 1.2 T Icon test car is priced from £20,795, the hybrid looks like value from £21,895 as does the diesel in 6-speed manual form from £20,695.

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CHARLES HURST BELFAST 0844 649 1139 Ross Sinnamon

Eye on Fleet Management

Ogilvie Fleet: Leading The Way In Technology Ogilvie Fleet believe in consistent investment in technology. Along with our award winning customer service, it’s another reason why so many customers are moving their lease vehicle to Ogilvie. We’ve developed a number of tools to help Fleet Managers run their fleet, along with dedicated tools for drivers to help them choose their next car and support them whilst on the road. For Fleet Managers Mifleet Showroom - Business Car Techies Award Winner 2013, 2014 & 2015 We recognised that no-one in the industry offered a simple solution to managing your entire fleet. We wanted to fill this gap so we designed Mifleet Showroom. Live information on your Fleet is displayed on one screen with a traffic light system to alert you to any areas that require attention. Say goodbye to your spreadsheets. Online Quotes We wanted to reduce administration for you and empower drivers so we created our online quotes system. Drivers are given a unique, secure, logon and can choose their next vehicle 24/7 from anywhere in the world. We work with Fleet Managers to predefine what cars

are visible ensuring that every order suits your business. Restrictions can be applied to filter results by almost anything, monthly rental, P11D, CO2, MPG, NCAP rating, manufacturer, model or vehicle type. For Drivers Ogilvie strive to make our drivers #HappyDrivers so we developed a suite of tools to help them throughout the contract. Online Tools The Ogilvie Fleet website is a source of information for your drivers. Everything from important telephone numbers through to tax calculators and online service booking tools are available 24/7. You can rest assured that if your driers have an early start, or a late finish, there is someone to support them via our 24hr driver helpline.

Ogilvie Fleet App We believe in consistent investment in technology, that’s why we launched our driver app. The app is free to download from the Apple Store and Google Play and provides helpful phones numbers, calculate your benefit-in-kind tax and locate your nearest service centre or charging point. The App is under constant development to ensure that we assist your drivers 24 hours per day. Contact Ogilvie today and our Tech team can help you reduce your administration and empower your drivers. Call us on 028 9045 0800, email us at fleetni@ogilvie.co.uk or visit our website www.ogilvie-fleet.co.uk

www.ogilvie-fleet.co.uk Ogilvie Fleet, Quay Gate House, 15 Scrabo Street, Belfast BT5 4BD Tel: 028 9045 0800 Email: fleet-ni@ogilvie.co.uk 94

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dfcbelfast.co.uk

Eye on Motoring

Hurst Nissan Takes A New Approach To Car Sales Charles Hurst Group, Northern Ireland’s biggest car retailer, has unveiled a new customerled concept which it believes is the future of modern car retailing.

he unique approach has been launched at the group’s newly refurbished Nissan dealership on Belfast’s Boucher Road and represents an investment of £250,000. Charles Hurst, the only car retailer in Northern Ireland to boast the new showroom design, has replaced the traditional sales desk with a more customer-friendly, paperless environment which utilises modern technology to give the customer better control and a seamless purchasing experience. Alan Thompson, Franchise Manager at Charles Hurst Nissan,

explains the thinking behind the changing face of car sales: “Through the internet, customers are now better informed, connected, and empowered in their purchasing experience and knowledge. The majority of our customers are spending more time researching online, utilising social media and car comparison websites before they contact the showroom. This new approach allows the customer to retain their lead in the sales process and enables us to provide a more transparent and holistic service which is seamless from initial contact, through to sales and after-sales services.”

Customers are able to book appointments online and are then checked-in using iPad technology and greeted by a host before being shown to one of the comfortable consultation areas which have replaced the formal sales desks. This new format enables the customer to take the lead with the use of iPads to select or design their choice of car and its unique specifications, which avoid the use of brochures and other unnecessary paperwork. The showroom interior is bright and modern with feature walls, Wi-Fi enhancement points, PlayStation to entertain children and plasma screens which showcase the latest car models. Colin McNab, Operations Director, Charles Hurst, said the new showroom underlined the company’s commitment and continued investment in customer focused services which is up to date with changing trends.

“Charles Hurst is constantly adapting and investing in modern car retailing and the new approach at Charles Hurst Nissan showcases the future of car sales which puts the customer first. “We have worked closely with Nissan to ensure the new showroom delivers a first class customer interface. As the leading Nissan dealer in Northern Ireland, it is important to us that we are at the forefront of the latest technology and customer offering, not just in terms of car models but also worldclass service, and this new showroom and approach allows us to do that.” In addition to the new Nissan showroom, Charles Hurst has also invested £250,000, in the opening of its new Van Centre which has adapted the same concept in modern motoring retail and offers the biggest selection of new and used vans in Northern Ireland as well as a van rental service.

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Eye on Motoring

dfcbelfast.co.uk Motoring with Derek Black dbmotoring@btinternet.com

WHAT DO YOU CALL A FRENCH QASHQAI? A COOL KADJAR! It is a clever move by Renault to bring in its own version of the popular Nissan Qashqai. The Kadjar also has a quirky name but, thanks to French design flair, it is a better looking car. It looks like a larger version of the Captur.

ractical and comfortable, the Kadjar even manages to squeeze in a little extra boot space. Underneath all the glitz, this is essentially a practical car with some familiar but frugal engines. It comes with front drive and a six-speed manual gearbox as standard but automatic transmission and four-wheel drive are available. Those simple but efficient engines will bring a smile to the face of the

company accountant. The 1.5 dCi diesel is a renowned fuel miser that is rated at 74mpg on the Combined Cycle and has emissions of less than 100g/km. With a modest output of 110 PS, it is not particularly stimulating to drive but has pace enough for the working day. There is also a 1.2-litre turbo petrol and a 1.6 dCi, both offering a little more power at 130PS each. Both use a bit more fuel but, even with four-wheel drive, the 1.6 dCi

manages 58mpg on the Combined Cycle. BIK bands run from 17% for the 1.5 dCi to 23% for the four-wheel drive 1.6 dCi with the petrol 1.2 in the 20% band. On the road I found the Kadjar to be more agile than I expected and it coped well with bumpy roads - as do most French cars. Starter Expression models come with Bluetooth, air con and electric

windows. Move up to Dynamic Nav and you get alloys, climate control and a much improved R-link navigation system. The price list starts from just under ÂŁ17,995 for a starter petrol car with the preferable diesels coming in from ÂŁ21,595 for a well specced Dynamic Nav model. The warranty is now for four years or 100,000 miles - I wonder why?

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dfcbelfast.co.uk

Eye on Motoring

Motoring with Derek Black dbmotoring@btinternet.com

’SMALL’ JAG IS BIG ON DRIVER APPEAL EVEN AS A DIESEL! At last Jaguar has a compact executive saloon to do battle with the Audi A4, BMW 3-series and Mercedes C-class. The XE is on a new platform and uses much weight-saving aluminium but keeps its advanced suspension system, front and rear.

hat means there is no compromise in the way it drives. It feels eager to turn into bends and rides with great composure even on our storm worn Ulster roads. Rear drive also helps to ensure that balanced poise. The engines are familiar from the time of Ford ownership. Offering either 161bhp or 177bhp, they can growl a bit when pushed. (Rumour is that Jaguar is developing its own diesels which will be smoother and quieter.)

Still, the 177 PS model that I drove had decent urge through the familiar slick 8-speed automatic gearbox, complete with paddles. It can sprint to 62mph in 7.4 seconds and is rated at a respectable 67mpg combined and emissions of 111g/km. The less powerful turbo-diesel, with a 6-speed manual gearbox, will appeal most to business users. Its bottom line is impressive with up to 70mpg according to the Combined Cycle and emissions of

sub 100g/km. Other engine choices include a 2-litre turbo and 3-litre V6 petrol for the traditionalists. Inside, the dash is dominated by a large colour screen for the infotainment system and this worked intuitively. My test car in Portfolio trim had luxurious leather seats and a reversing camera. Space is good in the front but a bit limited in the rear. The starter models come with

automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and front, side and curtain airbags. Options include adaptive cruise control and blindspot monitoring. The SE and upward models also have satellite navigation, climate control and automatic wipers and headlamps. Priced from £26,995, the XE makes Jaguar’s strongest challenge in the junior executive bracket.

Love to beat the competition Love the tiny whole life costs Love award-winning New Corsa

Kind on BiK – from just 15%*

Quids in for Whole Life Costs

V Value for money – monthly BiK tax from only £29*

New Corsa 1.3CDTi 95PS Design 5dr

Fiesta 1.5 TDCi 95PS Style ECOnetic 5dr

Polo 1.4 TDI 75PS SE 5dr

£20,769

B A

£20,971

Just keeps going... up to 91.1mpg†

£19,262

Whole Life Costs – 3 years / 60,000 miles1

Zero VED

VAUXHALL FLEET

Call 0870 010 0651 | visit www.vauxhall.co.uk/fleet Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km). New Corsa range: Urban 35.3 (8.0) – 83.1 (3.4), Extra-urban 57.6 (4.9) – 94.2 (3.0), Combined 47.1 (6.0) – 91.1 (3.1). CO2 emissions 139 – 82g/km. † = Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. * = 2015-16 tax year. General Motors UK Limited, trading as Vauxhall Motors, does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their own accountant with regards to their particular tax position. 1 = Whole Life Costs (3 years/60,000 miles) based on independently supplied data by CAP (November 2015). All figures quoted correct at time of publication (November 2015). Images shown for illustrative purposes only and may feature options at extra cost.

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