STEVE HARVEY FRANKLIN
FTSE 100 -35.33 6876.47
Company on the move Full story - Page 7
DANIEL KRIGERS Affirmative action Column - Page 4
An EXAMINER publication
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
By HENRYK ZIENTEK Business Reporter henryk.zientek@examiner.co.uk
Nine out of 10 law firms and professional services businesses fail to take proper precautions when it comes to storing client data, it is claimed. Research by ITWiser, a division of Cleckheaton-based chartered accountancy firm Clough & Company, found that 90% of such businesses have insufficient IT security in place to protect client data from hackers, disgruntled employees and outsiders logging onto their networks. The research looked at Yorkshire law firms and professional services providers – companies that hold a wide range of sensi-
tive data about clients, including personal details, medical records and financial information. A separate tudy by KPMG found that 74% of IT and HR professionals working at firms with more than 500 staff, believe cyber challenges need specialist skills and 70% admit they lack expertise over data protection and privacy. More than half said they would consider hiring a hacker or someone with a criminal record in order to overcome the problem. Martin Clark, who heads ITWiser and is certified to work as an ethical hacker, said: “Nowadays, computer hackers are continually in the news with a number of high-profile incidents taking place recently such
as Microsoft’s hack and Sony’s blackmail attack. “However, in most cases computer hackers can reap far higher rewards by targeting small organisations that hold valuable data and are unlikely to have layers of security and dedicated teams to protect their networks. “This makes law firms and professional services organisations particularly at risk and we’ve seen several cases in recent months where hackers have entered systems and accessed a huge range of sensitive and personal data” Said Mr Clark: “There are a huge range of precautions that SMEs can take to protect themselves and an ethical hacker can test the robustness of the network.”
■■ Martin Clark, of ITWiser, says sensitive data could be put at risk
Region among the best for new business start-ups West Yorkshire saw a record number of new businesses registered in 2014 – taking the total figure for firms operating in the region to an all-time high. Figures from records management company Inform Direct – and detailed at www.informdirect.co.uk – showed that 15,924 new firms were incorporated last year against a previous best of 14,167 – an increase of 12%. This means the total number of businesses running out of the region now stands at 94,890, with predictions that it will break the 100,000 threshold by the end of this month. The tally includes 2,582 new business-
es launched in Kirklees and 1,289 new start-ups in Calderdale. There were 6,702 new companies formed in Leeds, 3,156 in Bradford and 1,835 in Wakefield. Almost 1,000 new firms were formed in Huddersfield, the Colne Valley and Holme Valley while more than 1,300 start-ups were in Dewsbury, Batley, Birstall, Cleckheaton and Heckmondwike. Henry Catchpole, chief executive of Inform Direct, said: “West Yorkshire is now in fourth place on a table of regions for start-ups businesses in 2014. “Seven companies were started per 1,000 people last year and there are 43 active companies per 1,000 people oper-
ating in the area. “It is great to see an entrepreneurial spirit flourishing right across the region. There is lots of support out there for fledgling businesses and it seems people are putting their ideas and dreams into action more than ever before.” According to the figures, there are now 29% more companies active in West Yorkshire than there were five years ago. Last year, in the UK as a whole, 586,784 new businesses were registered with Companies House – taking the total number to a record high of 3,509,084. Private limited companies made up over 95% of all formations.
Nationally, London remains by far the most prolific area for start-ups with 191,915 new companies started in 2014. Mr Catchpole said the growth in UK start-ups was being fuelled by the ease and speed with which a company can be started – usually within hours and generally for less than £20. Many companies were successfully operating from home and needed little more than a website before they can start trading. In addition, there were improved channels for accessing capital – including crowdfunding – making it easier for new companies to get early stage backing.
We supply appropriately qualified & skilled people to any Workplace. For temporary & permanent jobs in West Yorkshire contact:
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In the limelight Huddersfield businessman Ajaz Ahmed is taking centre stage to support the arts. The Freeserve founder will host an event in Leeds to showcase the skills of four arts charities, which have joined forces to create Here to Thrive – a group promoting the arts in West Yorkshire and emphasising to businesses the cultural, social and health benefits of getting involved in their programmes.
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Kirklees companies told it’s time to tackle hackers
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Status as superstar Paving manufacturer Marshalls plc has been awarded Business Superbrands status for the sixth year running. The Elland-based firm, which supplies stone and concrete products for construction, home improvements and landscaping, received Superbrands status in recognition of its role as a leading businessto-business brand.
www.stafflex.co.uk International House, Chapel Hill, Huddersfield HD1 3EE
Tel: 01484 351010
2
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2015 HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
national
Treasury reduces stake in Lloyds to below 23% The Government has sold another £500m of shares in Lloyds Banking Group, taking its stake in the lender to below 23%. In addition to the dividend announced by Lloyds last month, the latest transactions mean the Treasury has now recovered about £8.5bn of the £20bn injected into the group at the height of the financial crisis. The shares were sold at a level above the 73.6p average price the previous government paid for them. Lloyds shares closed yesterday 1p cheaper at 80.4p. A pre-election sale of shares in Lloyds to ordinary members of the public was ruled out last year by Chancellor George Osborne. The Government has chosen to sell the stock over time “in an orderly and ■■ Lloyds Bankin Group is set to pay its first dividend since the taxpayer rescue measured way” rather than through large tranches, as has been done previously. months to raise about £3bn. notification to the stock market every It said in December that it hoped to The stake is now 22.98%, compared time the Government’s shareholding sell off a stake of up to 5% in Lloyds with 40% at the time of the bail-out in in the bank crosses through a one Banking Group over the following six 2008. Lloyds is required to issue a percentage point threshold.
Election will hit business, says Sorrell Advertising boss Sir Martin Sorrell warned that the general election will hurt business, whichever of the two main parties wins. Sir Martin said a Conservative victory would create the uncertainty of a referendum on staying in Europe in 2016 or 2017 while Labour appeared to be campaigning on a “bashing business” platform. The WPP boss made the remarks as the global advertising giant reported a 12% rise in pre-tax profits to £1.45bn for last year, pointing to like-for-like revenue growth in all regions. Billings were up by 6.8% to £46.2bn on a constant currency basis, although exchange rate movements took a 6% to 7% chunk out of reported results leaving them flat year-on-year, the group said. Sir Martin said signs of improvement in the eurozone gave grounds for optimism. But the group also cautioned about a series of “flapping grey swans” of uncertainty in the world economy, including the UK general election in May. Sir Martin said whoever was in government after the election would have to tackle the dficit, which was still “too high”.
Mr Osborne said: “These sales are part of our plan to return Lloyds to the private sector and get taxpayers’ money back. The proceeds will be used to reduce the national debt.” Lloyds Banking Group has announced it will pay a dividend to its 3m shareholders for the first time since its taxpayer rescue. The landmark in the lender’s recovery, resulting in payments totalling £535m, came as it announced a fourfold rise in annual profits to £1.8bn. The dividend will provide the Government with at least another £100m this year. A Lloyds spokesman said: “Today’s announcement shows further progress made in returning Lloyds Banking Group to full private ownership and enabling the taxpayer to get their money back. “This reflects the hard work undertaken over the last four years to transform the group into a low-risk and customer-focused bank that is committed to helping Britain prosper.”
Recruitment prospects brighten
M&S is playing the loyalty card
Yorkshire firms are more optimistic about recruiting staff, a survey has revealed. The latest quarterly study by recruitment agency Manpower showed that the region’s Employment Outlook has risen two points on the previous quarter. At plus 4%, hiring intentions in the region have increased, but still lag two points below the national average of plus 6%. Amanda White, oprations manager at Manpower, said: “While the region is still a little
Marks & Spencer is to offer its army of small shareholders a discounted gift card instead of their dividend payment, the group said. The retailer has more than 190,000 private investors who together own about 30% of M&S stock – a number of whom have voiced frustration at the pace of the turnaround in its fortunes under former Morrisons boss Marc Bolland. The new scheme will enable them to exchange their
below the national average, it’s pleasing to see an improving outlook for jobs in Yorkshire and Humberside. “York in particular is leading the way, with steady increases across sectors and strong demand for qualified trades and customer services. “Hull also has a strong jobs market and those with technical and IT skills are in high demand, together with applicants who have customer service experience.” “However, it’s a less positive
picture in the rest of the region. In South Yorkshire, the market is stable, but not bullish and there are bright spots such as opportunities in call centres and positions in the NHS. West Yorkshire – and the Leeds market in particular – is the most cautious area in the region. Looking ahead to the second quarter of 2015, the national employment outlook remains at plus 6% for the third quarter running – showing the UK jobs market continues to plot a steadily optimistic course.
dividend pay-out to purchase a card up to the value of £1,000 at a 10% discount – so a £900 dividend payment could be swapped for a £1,000 card. It can be used to shop in M&S UK stores and online. The scheme has been developed with Equinti, a firm which manages shareholder registers. M&S group secretary Amanda Mellor said: “Our private investors are also some of our most loyal cus-
tomers and we’re continually looking at how we can best engage this important group of stakeholders. We’ve listened carefully to their feedback and believe that in the new Equinti scheme, we’ve identified a simple mechanic that rewards their investment in the company.” Investors will be able to choose how much of their dividend they wish to use to buy the gift card with any remaining dividend balance paid as normal.
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN
American Express Chevron Du Pont Exxon Mobil Gannett Hess Corp Microsoft Motors Liquidation Wal-Mart Stores Wrigleys
£53.27 £69.53 £51.87 £56.64 £22.91 £47.33 £28.39 49.63 £54.90 £52.92
AEROSPACE & DEFENCE
Avon Rbbr BAE Systems Chemring Cobham Meggitt Rolls-Royce Senior
AIM
600 Group API Grp Brady Plc Highland Gold Mining Johnson Service Grp London Security M”S Intl Nichols Redhall Group Scapa Grp Youngs GKN
7651/2 533 2251/4 3173/4 5561/2 9951/2 3375/8 18 /4 59 921/2 37 76 £231/8 140 1125 141/4 1411/2 1013
+0.25 +291/2 -4 +33/4 -3 -1/2 +81/2 -43/8
3
AUTOMOBILES & PARTS BANKS
+0.13 +1.01 +0.17 -0.03 +0.03 +0.09 +0.36
3583/4
Barclays Bk Ireland HSBC Lloyds Banking Gp Ryl Scotland Stan Chart Barr (AG) Diageo SABMiller Croda Elementis 98 Johnsn Mat
-2 +2 -1 /2 -41/2 1
-25/8
BEVERAGES
-21/4 -11/2 -1 -81/4 +20
678 1904 £371/8
+9 -241/2 -1/4
£26 /4 291 £335/8
- /8 +1/2 -1/4
2391/4 1727 3181/2 611/2 249
-41/4 -70 +21/4 +1 +9
CHEMICALS
3
CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS
Balfour Beatty C”R”H Costain Low Bonar Marshalls Drax Gp SSE
+1/2
2623/4 25 5661/2 803/8 3673/4 1044
ELECTRICITY
3971/2 1518
1
+23/8 +1
ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
Domino Ptg Laird Morgan Advanced Ox Instmts Volex
729 3383/4 3371/8 8501/2 641/2
-5 /2 -11/4 -11/8 +1/2 +3/4
4941/4 1351/2 332 2623/4
-31/4
1
EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS
Alliance Trust Br Assets Candover Inv Dunedin Inv
+3/4 -31/4
Dunedin Sml Edin Invst Electra Private Equity Forgn & C Henderson Smllr Cos North American Inc Scot Am Scottish Mortgage Witan
190 6691/2 £313/8 4501/8 585 864 241 2571/2 7701/2
-1 -51/2 -1/8 -1 +3 +1 +2
454 583/8 148 921/2 330
-51/4 -13/8 -1 -1/2 -4
-7
FIXED LINE TELECOMMUNICATIONS
BT Grp Cable & Wireless Comm Colt Group KCOM Talktalk Telecom
FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS
Morrison W Sainsbury Tesco Thorntons AB Food Carrs Millg REA Hldgs Tate Lyle Unilever
2081/4 2751/2 2401/4 71
FOOD PRODUCERS
+21/4 -11/8 -21/4 -13/8
£303/4 1401/4 319 606 £281/4
-5/8 -31/2 -181/2 +2 -3/8
2437/8 8687/8 826 £201/4 9221/2
+17/8 +33/8 +15 -1/8 -21/2
GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES
Centrica National Grid Pennon Grp Severn United Utils 3i Group
GENERAL FINANCIAL 4883/4
-81/4
Smith Nph
Local shares Carclo Marshalls National Grid Weir Gp
133 249 8687/8 1887
+7 +9 +33/8 +74
FTSE closed at
6876.47
1662 5291/2 £241/2 1897/8 £27 £307/8 £233/4
-2 -81/2 +1/4 -45/8 -3/8 -5/8 -1/2
3741/4 1191
+1/4 +12
GENERAL INDUSTRIALS
Smith DS Smiths Grp
GENERAL RETAILERS
Ashley L Dixons Carphone Home Retail Inchcape Kingfisher M & S Mothercare Next Signet Jewelers WH Smith
281/2 4351/8 1973/4 741 3593/4 5041/2 1901/4 £751/8 £785/8 1318
Aga Rangemaster Barrat Dev Bellway Persimmon Reckitt Benckiser Taylor Wimpey
-1/4 -21/4 -51/2 -61/2 -35/8 -61/2 +1/4 -1/4 -15/8 +1
HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES
-18
100 511 1950 1741 £581/4 1473/4
INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING
down 35.33 Close Bros ICAP London StockExch Man Group Provident Financial Schroders Schroders NV
1126
HOUSEHOLD GOODS
Fenner I”M”I Molins Renold Spirax-Sarco Weir Grp Ferrexpo
2101/2 1341 82 591/4 £325/8 1887
+2 -8 -34 -7 +1/4 -11/2 -31/2 +12 -1/2 +74
INDUSTRIAL METALS 53
-2
INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION
BBA Aviation
334 /8
-10 /8
5611/2 4281/8 2837/8 2253/4 16631/2 4463/4
-11/2 -13/8 +31/4 -13/8 -8 +13/4
848 2471/4 1661/4 1451 1132 992 3821/2
-81/2 +3/4 +31/4 +1 -5 -4 +61/4
7
LIFE INSURANCE
Aviva Friends Life Gp Lgl & Gen Old Mutual Prudential Standard Life
D Mail Tst ITV Johnston Press Pearson Reed Elsevier Sky STV Group
MEDIA
1
Trinity Mirror Utd Business UTV WPP
1913/4 552 1791/2 1559
MINING
Anglo American Antofagasta BHP Billiton Fresnillo Kaz Minerals Lonmin Rio Tinto VEDANTA RESOURCES
1138 7521/2 15431/2 686 221 1261/4 £291/8 5741/2
-3/4 +1 +41/2 +18 +2 +41/2 -7 -121/2 -45/8 -41/2 -1/8 +31/2
MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Inmarsat Vodafone Group
890 2191/8
NONLIFE INSURANCE
Admiral Grp Jardine LloydThomson Marsh McL RSA Ins Gp
1518 993 £373/8 4123/8
+3 +34 +1/8 -55/8
9191/4 4453/4 1981/8 155 £201/4 £213/8 £331/2 3461/8
-117/8 -11/4 -1/4 -37/8
OIL & GAS PRODUCERS
BG BP Cairn Energy Premier Oil Royal Dutch Shell A Royal Dutch Shell B Total Tullow Oil
OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES
AMEC Petrofac Wood Gp(J)
-1 -3/4
10553/8 8871/2 6611/2
-1/4 -71/8 -21/2 -4
PERSONAL GOODS
Burberry Gp PZ Cussons
1857 3295/8
-30 +15/8
£43 /8 1556 £521/8
- /2 -4 -1/4
825 7991/2 6611/2 3431/8 1239 4263/4
-14 /2 -8 -6 -47/8 -26 -3/4
486
-53/8
PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY
Astrazeneca GlaxoSmithKline Shire
5
REAL ESTATE
Brit Land Gt Portland Hamrsn Intu Properties Land Secs SEGRO
1
1
SOFTWARE & COMPUTER SERVICES
Sage Group
SUPPORT SERVICES
Berendsen Bunzl Capita Connect Group De La Rue Elctro Com Electrocomp Experian G4S Hays Homeserve Interserve Menzies J Northgate Prem Farnell Rentokil Travis & P
1119 1859 1192 1513/4 541 2441/2 2441/2 1160 291 1561/4 327 598 4071/4 6201/2 1917/8 1375/8 1969
+3 -22 -17 -31/4 +2 -3/4 -3/4 -27 -41/4 -21/4 -2 -131/2 -1 -31/2 +15/8 -1/4 -41
Wolseley
£401/2
-1/2
TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE & EQUIPMENT
ARM Hldgs IBM Spirent Comms
TOBACCO
Br Am Tob Imperial Tobacco
1179 £1061/4 881/4 £371/2 £313/4
-3/4 -1/2
81 £303/8 1158 1702 105 1003/8 £251/2 8701/2 £265/8 5511/2 1143/4 151 4581/4 2853/4 951/4 1901/4 7031/2 7511/2 3423/4 £525/8 3791/2
-3/4
TRAVEL & LEISURE
Bwin.Party Digital Carnival Compass Grp easyJet Enterprise Inns FirstGroup Go-Ahead Gp Greene King Intercontl Htls Intl Cons Airl Ladbrokes Marston’s Mitchells & Butlers Natl Express Punch Taverns Rank Org Restaurant Grp Ryanair Stagecoach Group Whitbread William Hill FTSE 100 FTSE 250
INDEX
-12 +13/8 +23/4
6876.47 17167.07
-11 +22 -3/8 -17/8 -17 +11/2 +7/8 -2 -91/4 +53/4 -1/2 -11/8 -71/2 +201/8 +23/4 -1/2 -43/8 -35.33 -105.14
3
HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2015
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
profile
Common touch is the key to success They’re helping businesses change the way Centre cafe and found we shared a view of where ing in the Media Centre in 2005.” they work. apps were heading and how we could create a Simon says: “We both saw that apps were the Simon Howship and Ben Childs are bringing a specialist business focused purely on apps. We way to go. The big ‘buzz’ for the past 10 years has shared passion for technology – and what it can looked at the ‘risks and rewards’ and decided been the full service agency, which did a lot of do – to their mobile app development company, there was an opportunity.” things but didn’t necessarily do all those things Common Agency, Ben, 39, who lives at Slaithwaite, studied prod- at a specialist level. We are all about mobile They head a 12-strong team based in top-floor uct design at Huddersfield University before applications, so we don’t tread on anyone else’s offices at Huddersfield’s Media Centre, helping joining greeting cards giant Hallmark where he toes.” clients across the country to raise brand aware- was involved in its developing digital business. Says Ben: “Companies wanted apps, but they ness, strengthen customer engagement and – His role took him to Boston, Massachusetts, didn’t know why! We are designing these things ultimately – have a positive effect on their turno- where he saw “lots of future technology”. for a purpose and to provide the customer with a ver and profits by designing and developing Ben moved to telecoms firm Orange as a return on their investment. mobile apps for iPhone, iPad and Android. designer and became design manager. “That’s “It’s about partnerships. A lot of agencies are Among its many credits, Common Agency is where I cut my teeth developing mobile apps,” about short-term relationships, but we get responsible for the Photobox app on iOS and he says. “But I was in a corporate world working involved with the business and find out what Android, which enables users to create person- with a lot of agencies. Eventually, I decided that their products are about and help develop a alised mugs, calendars, prints, phone cases if I didn’t get out soon, it would be too late. long-term strategy.” using photos from Cloud, Instagram, Facebook, “I left Orange and became a consultant, startSays Simon: “Apps are about a continual conGoogle and Dropbox. versation, adding new features. You are The agency also designed and never standing still. There’s new harddeveloped the Moonpig app with ware and software coming in on a daily features such as video cards and basis. custom text editing. “It has to be a journey. If someone Now the firm is recruiting to fill wants us to build an app and go away up to four new roles this year and again that’s quite unattractive to us. The is enjoying success with its sales customer needs a road map. Everything and marketing office in London, we build has the end-user in mind and which services its clients in the we try not to lose sight of that. We keep south east of England. things as simple as we can and as intuiSimon, 47, who lives at Dentive as we can.” holme, began his career in retailSays Ben: “Companies may have a ing with chains including PC good technical team who are focused on World – becoming a regional developing a website, but mobile expermanager and working across the tise is quite different. We want to create country – which he says gave him apps that provide the right level of cusa broad skills set. tomer experience. “I was a bit of a troubleshooter, “I use an app to pay for my parking in going into problem stores that Huddersfield,” says Ben. “It’s an example needed turning around,” he says. of an app that’s functional and enhances Among his success stories was the user experience.” transforming an under-performHe says: “We have found that in every ing Bristol store, which subsesingle instance, of all the users of an app, quently became the first store a big percentage have never transacted outside London to achieve £1m with that brand before.” turnover in a week. Says Simon: “When I started with PC Simon got involved in technolWorld, they were true ‘destination’ stores. ogy via the launch of Freeserve People would travel to buy from a store. and ran a technology business in Now customers will go looking online Canary Wharf for four years, but and if you are not there, your competitors after selling it, decided that the will take that business.” exciting developments in the In the past three years, Common Agenworld of mobile apps offered a cy has taken on four apprentices.. Now it bigger opportunity. is looking to recruit four more developers “I wanted to get back to Yorkthis year. shire,” he says. “That coincided Says Ben: “The right talent is hard to with the launch of the iPhone find, but we nurture that talent. It is a very and I knew there was a massive specialist skill. opportunity. Things were about “We are really passionate about what to happen! I had a chance meetwe do. This is where we have got to in our ing with Ben in 2010 in the Media ■■ Ben Childs and Simon Howship, of app developer Common Agency lives. That chance meeting ended up
with us doing this together. The people who work with us are just as excited and passionate and put their all into it.” Away from the technology, Simon enjoys the simple pleasures of life. “My life revolves around dog walking and getting out into the countryside,” he says. “I go stomping across the moors with our labrador, Rushkin.” Ben and his wife Kate have two children Ewan, 17, and India, eight. “I am a keen photographer and cyclist,” says Ben. “I’m into creative photography and use technology to try things out. I commute by cycle a couple of days a week. “One of the big positives about the business is that we can be flexible. Simon and I can be testing apps at three o’clock in the morning if necessary.” Commenting on its London office, Simon says: “A lot of the big brands are based down there. To have a conversation with them, we have to have a presence there. “We are down there on a fortnightly or weekly basis. People in London love our northern ‘openness’. But they expect you to deliver – and we understand that because we have both been involved in big corporate business.”
Common Agency Work: Mobile app design and development Site: Media Centre, Northumberland Street, Huddersfield Phone: 01484 437454 Email: hello@commonagency. com Web: www. commonagency. com
4
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2015 HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER
local
Company’s loyalty lies with Town Huddersfield Town has signed a new commercial partnership with digital loyalty card specialist Beep Xtra. Beep is represented in 186 countries and offers a unique loyalty programme for consumers. As part of the partnership, Town will introduce Beep to its growing family of commercial partners. Lyndon Farrington, managing director and founder of Beep, said: “We recognised some time ago that there is a real need for a loyalty programme not only in the UK but around the world. “Until about 18 months ago, there simply wasn’t the information technology available to cope with what we wanted to do, but now with the advancements in the ‘Cloud’ systems we can deliver a unique service where customers receive a small discount in the form of cash back – this is effectively cash they can spend on their card in other participating businesses. “That’s a win for them and a win for the businesses which accept the cards as more and more customers like to see cash on their card and an extra reason to shop locally!”
Safeguards welcomed Government plans to ensure that failing – but viable – firms can get essential IT and utility supplies during the rescue process were welcomed by insolvency trade body R3. The measures will stop essential suppliers from cutting off supply or charging premium rates while business restructuring professionals work to save a business. In return, these suppliers will be guaranteed payment ahead of others owed money for services provided during the rescue period and can ask for guarantees of payment from the practitioner. R3 Yorkshire committee member Chris Wood said said the proposals would make it easier for the insolvency profession to save businesses and jobs as well as returning as much money to creditors as possible.
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
EAT’s ruling shows delay can be costly The Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) recently considered a constructive dismissal case brought by an employee who resigned some 18 months after an identified fundamental breach of her contract of employment. It is a well established principal that, in addition to there being a fundamental breach of contract on the part of the employer which results in the employee bringing the relationship to an end, the employee must not delay in accepting the breach, otherwise they may be held to have “affirmed” contract. The longer the passage of time, the greater the argument that the employee has waived any breach of contract. In the case before the EAT, an employee suffered from symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression and, shortly into her illness, presented a formal grievance alleging unfair treatment when compared to others in her team. The employee made specific reference to considering her position but stated she was not well enough to discuss the grievance at that time. The employee remained absent for the next 18 months before finally resigning. She then presented a constructive dismissal complaint. The basis of this complaint was that her treatment prior to her absence amounted to a fundamental breach of the implied duty to maintain trust and confidence entitling her to resigning in response to that breach. The company, however, argued that the contract had been affirmed by the employee. She demonstrated a continuing intention to be bound by the contract rather than treating it as at an end. She accepted sick pay, made repeated requests to access
EMPLOYER’S BRIEF Daniel J Krigers
■■ Employees must act fast in response to a perceived breach of contract
work emails, applied for permanent health insurance under the company’s policies and attended welfare meetings. In response, the employee argued that she had not been well enough to consider her employment until the point of her resignation and this was supported by a jointly appointed psychologist. The Tribunal rejected this argument however, stating that they had access to more detailed information which presented a different picture. The employee’s claim failed and the matter was appealed to the EAT. The
EAT agreed with the conclusion that the employee was not too ill to resign at the time of the alleged fundamental breach of contract. It then turned to the principals of affirmation of contract. The EAT again agreed with the Tribunal in that there were a number of indicators which suggested the employee intended to continue to be bound by the employment contract which resulted in the failure of the constructive dismissal claim. For employees, the case highlights the importance in acting quickly in response to a perceived breach of contract. Whilst delay on its own will not be the sole factor in determining whether the contract has been affirmed, accepting benefits and continuing to act in accordance with the contract will generally be fatal. For employers, the case presents a useful review of the authorities on affirmation and still does not rule out the possibilities that a constructive dismissal claim can be brought many months after an event. The litigation in this matter could well have been avoided if the employer took more proactive steps to manage the employee’s absence rather than wait 18 months for the employee to conclude her employment.
Daniel J Krigers is an employment law solicitor at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors
Runway de-icer sales cleared for take off A company headed by Batley-born businessman Lawrence Tomlinson has secured a key contract. LNT Solutions, which provides weather protection systems to the aviation, rail and facilities management industries. has landed a deal to supply its GEN3 runway de-icer to Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA). GEN3 is designed to keep runways clear of ice for longer periods. The de-icer formula improves friction on active runways and taxiways. Leeds-based LNT Solutions also reports savings of up to 20% on the amount of fluid needed as a result of less frequent application. Richard Duncan, airside operations manager at LBA, said: “Leeds Bradford is pleased to support and work
■■ Richard Duncan (left), of Leeds Bradford Airport, with Philip Newton, LNT Solutions’ UK commercial manager
closely with LNT Solutions, a fast-growing local Yorkshire business. The GEN3 de-icer introduced at LBA has already delivered exceptional results in the most challenging of wintry conditions over the past six weeks,
allowing aircraft to operate with minimal disruption.” Philip Newton, UK commercial manager for LNT Solutions, said: “Forming a new partnership with Leeds Bradford with a groundbreaking product is very
exciting for us. LBA joins a growing list of early adopters of next generation runway de-icers worldwide. “We are continuing to invest in research and development to produce innovative products which secure operational efficiencies for our customers. It’s great to see these products now in use at LBA as well as on the continent and across the Atlantic.” LNT Solutions also supplies Highlands and Islands Airports in the Western Isles following successful trials. It is also in talks with a number of UK airports for the supply of GEN3. It is is part of LNT Group, chaired by Mr Tomlinson, whose interests also include care homes, software, construction and car manufacturing.
■■ Dave (left) and Kevin Henderson, of Direct Voice and Data
Recognising family values A company providing businesses with telecoms services has been shortlisted in the Yorkshire Family Business of the Year Awards. The nomination puts Skelmanthorpebased Direct Voice and Data in line for a second award in a matter of a few months – after 21-year-old managing director Dave Henderson was named Young Business Person of the Year last November in the Examiner Business Awards 2014. The firm was founded in 1984 following the deregulation of the telecoms market and began as Dial-In Telephones with a shop in Huddersfield town centre. In 2005, the company was bought by father and son Kevin Henderson and Dave Henderson, who relaunched the business in 2010 as Direct Voice and Data.” Now it supplies local businesses with business telephone systems, IT solutions, broadband and business mobile phones along with technical support services including data cabling, electrical contracting, audio-visual equipment and security systems. The Family Business of the Year Awards were introduced in 2012 to celebrate the contribution that family firms bring to the UK economy and the communities in which they operate. The awards are organised by Family Business United. Mr Henderson said: “We have worked really hard over the last nine years since the management buyout and have put structures in place so the family business can now really grow. This year should see our first acquisition of another company to add to our group. Our aim is for a profit increase of 10-fold over the next five years.” Vote by visiting www.familybusinessunited.com. The awards will be presented on June 11 at the Mayfair Hotel in London.
Ambassador award finalist A company headed by Denby Dale businesswoman Jo Haigh has reason to celebrate. Wakefield-based fds Director Services Ltd was a finalist for the coveted Yorkshire Ambassador Award at the Yorkshire Business Masters Awards. The awards, which recognise excellence, growth and enterprise in the region’s corporate community, were held at the Queens Hotel in Leeds Jo congratulated Lord Haskins, who won the category. Commenting on fds being named a finalist, she said: “I am immensely proud of my team and this acknowledgement is testament to their commitment and hard work in the region. “Our team is the best it has ever been and the business opportunities in the region are continuously improving which simply means the possibilities for our continued growth are excellent.”
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6
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2015 HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
‘Green’ improvements for new-look retailer A furniture store is undergoing major changes – and green is definitely the colour. Lindsays Furniture Mill at Britannia Road, Milnsbridge, has been rebranded @HomeMills to extend its ranges to include products such as bedroom sets, dining furniture, carpets and lighting as well as sofas, armchairs and occasional tables. The first phase of the transformation has included the introduction of Parky’s Bistro as well as established brands such as Tannery Carpets, Heathcote & Brown, Moda and Zeds Sleep Centre. Other brands include My English Summer. The second phase will encompass kitchens, bathrooms, curtains, a beauty salon and hair salon and a garden centre as the business aims to become a ‘destination’ retailer. The sprawling mill building has offered plenty of scope for expansion, says Ashley Lindsay, managing director of @HomeMills. I It has also seen a number of key environmental improvements, including the installation of a new biomass heating system and enery-efficient LED lighting. “The aim has been to make the building more environmentally-friendly and reduce our carbon footprint,” said Ashley. Lindsays Furniture Mill remains part of the new set-up. Said Ashley: “We have spent 24 years building the business and it has established a reputation. Now with the new offers we have introduced, we have become more of a department store.” The business was founded by Ashley’s parents more than 30 years ago and for many years was known as Lindsays Allsorts. A shop was opened in Crosland Moor and a second established at Byram Street before the top floor of the mill at Milnsbridge became available.
■■ Ashley Lindsay, of the newly named @Home Mills based at Britannia Road, Milnsbridge
Step up to audit shoe shops’ green credentials An Elland-based consultancy is taking steps to help a footwear retailer become more energy efficient. Orchard Energy is working with Yorkshire-based Pavers Shoes on a major energy audit to identify where consumption can be cut and plan the operational changes needed to improve efficiency. Pavers said the partnership will help it map out a comprehensive energy efficiency strategy that will be implemented at its headquarters in York and across its network of more than 100 UK stores. Jim Young, head of facilities at Pavers, said the audit would ensure
the business complied with the government’s Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS), which aims to reduce the amount of energy being wasted by businesses due to inefficiency. “Businesses of our size are required to carry out an energy audit under the ESOS scheme and we wanted to take this a step further, using it as an opportunity to develop a detailed energy efficiency strategy,” he said. “We have worked with Orchard on energy procurement for a number of years and when they made us aware of our obligations under ESOS we felt the findings of the audit should have a real impact on our business.”
Mr Young said the audit would look at all areas of the company’s operations, including its buildings, electrical and mechanical systems, heating, lighting and air conditioning. Monitoring and data collection systems would be reviewed and an employee engagement initiative implemented. He said: “As well as cutting our carbon footprint, we also expect this exercise to generate quite substantial cost savings which means more money can be channelled into developing other areas of our business.” The ESOS scheme requires all companies with more than 250 employees or more than €50m turnover to com-
Moving up to Heritage Exchange A marketing and management services consultancy has moved to new offices. KC Communications has relocated from Bates Mill, off Colne Road, in Huddersfield to Heritage Exchange at Lindley following the appointment of Johanna Green as marketing assistant in November last year and a spate of new contract wins. Founder Katrina Cliffe (pic-
tured, right, with Johanna) said; “It is a pleasure to relocate KC Communications to my home village of Lindley, a bustling centre of business and leisure activity. “The relocation to the Heritage Exchange is a strategic decision which will allow us to better service our growing client list whilst providing us with the scope to grow the business over
the next 12 months.” KC Communications, formed in August last year, offers marketing consultancy and management services to SMEs and educational establishments throughout West Yorkshire. Clients include Sheards Accountants, Paradigm Creative, Temple Learning Academy and Khalsa Education Trust.
plete an energy audit by December 5 this year and repeat the process every four years. Simon Pyne, of Orchard Energy, said: “An audit only becomes effective when the measures identified are implemented so we are very keen that our clients don’t just look upon ESOS as another box to be ticked. “Pavers already takes a proactive approach to energy management, working with us on procurement to keep costs as low as possible. Energy efficiency is a natural progression and we will be suggesting operational and cultural changes that will create a truly sustainable business.”
Record result for auctioneer Properties in Kirklees came under the hammer – and helped deliver record auction results for Eddisons. The company, which has offices in Huddersfield, sold 51 of the 56 lots on offer at a recent auction at Elland Road, Leeds, to generate proceeds of almost £3m. Among the highlights, a former water pumping station on Soothill Lane in Batley – offered on the instructions of Yorkshire Water – sold for £31,500 off a guide price of £10,000 to £15,000, while a halfacre parcel of freehold land at Upper Road in Batley sold for £135,000. The site, currently used as a council car park, has outline planning consent for 16 flats. Overall proceeds for the threeday February auction, which also included dates in Manchester and London as well as Leeds, stand at nearly £4.9m. Robert Limbert, associate director and auctioneer, said: “In terms of number of lots sold, this was the most successful auction we have ever staged and quite possibly the best auction of all time in the Yorkshire region. “The room was packed and a real feel good factor was apparent amongst buyers who bid enthusiastically for lots in all categories, ensuring the majority exceeded their advertised guide price.”
Eden finds ideal spot A growing technology firm with a Huddersfield man at the helm has moved to bigger premises. Eden, which provided IT and telecoms services for businesses, has moved from premises at Bradford to Moorfield Business Park, Yeadon, close to Leeds Bradford Airport. It follows the firm’s acquisition of a business specialising in the repair of mobile devices and tablets. Huddersfield business technology specialist Richard Kennedy, who now lives at Lightcliffe, launched Eden in 2011 with colleague Andy Payne after previously working for some of the UK’s largest IT and telecommunications companies. Richard said: “This office move is a direct result of several highprofile client wins over the last 12 months and relocating to a thriving commercial area in Yeadon will give us further space to continue growing as well as offering easy access to Leeds, Bradford and beyond.” He added: “We operate in a fast moving industry that is continually evolving and launched Eden with the aim of becoming a single source supplier to meet the technology requirements of forward thinking companies, ranging from micro businesses through to large corporate organisations.”
7
HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2015
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
Moving experience
Marshalls gets brand recognition
A firm providing internet marketing skills has moved into new offices in Huddersfield town centre. WSI Yorkshire has relocated from its original home in Holmfirth into a new 1,700sq ft purpose-built office at St George’s House in historic St George’s Square. The premises include a “breakout” room for informal meetings, executive meeting rooms for clients and showers for any staff running or cycling to work. Owner Steve Harvey Franklin said: “The move has been in the pipeline for quite some time. The business has been growing steadily year on year but it got to the stage when
there was just no room left, even for me! “We’re all really excited about our new premises. Moving into the centre of Huddersfield puts us in the heart of the local businesses community and being able to kit out the new office from scratch has given it a real ‘built for purpose’ feel with high tech interior contrasting nicely with the beautiful traditional exterior of St George’s Square.” WSI Yorkshire, formed in 2004, recently, acquired digital marketing agency Cloudspotting which sits together with WSI Yorkshire under newly-formed parent company Attercopia Ltd.
■■ Steve Harvey Franklin (left) and staff at the new offices of WSI Yorkshire at St George’s Square
Trainees get taste of work with social housing group TWO trainees in Kirklees have got a taste of the world of work. It follows a link-up between Cleckheaton-based Brookhouse Training and Manchester-based social housing service and repair operation PH Jones. Thomas Mayo and Adam Thompson undertook a 30-day work placement with the gas maintenance team at PH Jones, which is part of British Gas.
The placement will help the two trainees complete a portfolio of evidence toward their final gas exams. They worked with the PH Jones team servicing and repairing gas boilers in Greater Manchester to achieve greater energy efficiencies and performance for the tenants of Your Housing Group. Roy Parsk, work placement officer at Brookhouse Training, said: “We’re
very grateful to the Your Housing Group for orchestrating this opportunity with PH Jones. “Despite the gruelling work schedule Thomas and Adam both really appreciated the way PH Jones employees and managers helped them. “They now have completed portfolios and are ready to undertake their ACS assessments ready for the next phase of moving into employment.”
Brookhouse Training, based at Brookhouse Mill, Balme Road, provides training and assessment for candidates in the gas, plumbing and electrical sectors as well as providing health and safety training.. It is the only UK training company to have been granted gold status by sector skills council Utility & Skills for its Managed Learning Programme in gas training.
Paving manufacturer Marshalls plc has been awarded Business Superbrands status for the sixth year running. The Elland-based company has been supplying superior natural stone and concrete products to the construction, home improvement and landscape markets since the 1890s. Superbrands status was awarded to the firm following the most recent evaluation of the long-running annual survey, which has been identifying the UK’s leading business-to-business brands since 2001. The process was managed by The Centre for Brand Analysis and questioned 2,000 individual business professionals from across the UK as well as the independent and voluntary Business Superbrands Council (BSC). They judged more than 1,200 brands, which they assessed on the three key criteria of quality, reliability and distinction. Chris Harrop, group marketing director at Marshalls, said, “At Marshalls we work extremely hard to ensure that our brand remains market leading and synonymous with innovation, trust, quality and reliability.”
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8
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2015 HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
movers and shakers
Ajaz all ready to go treading the boards Caroline Brayshaw & Lesley Cooper
Family law appointments Ramsdens Solicitors has appointed Caroline Brayshaw (above left) and Lesley Cropper (right) to its family law team. They will be primarily based at Ramsdens Halifax and Huddersfield offices. Lesley joins Ramsdens with over 27 years of experience in family and matrimonial cases. She brings a wealth of experience in family matters including divorce, civil partnership dissolution, problems concerning contact with children and the division of property and other assets upon breakdown of the relation-
ship. Caroline has 20 years’ experience providing advice on all areas of family law including divorce, financial cases, injunctions and private law children matters. Caroline is also a member of Resolution. Helen Thewlis, partner and head of family at Ramsdens, said: “We are delighted to welcome Caroline and Lesley to the family team. They bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the team. This is an important time in the firm and is another key part of building a strong family law team.”
Counting on their support Huddersfield accountancy practice Sheards has teamed up with the Huddersfield Town Foundation. The partnership will see Sheards undertake a variety of fundraising and volunteering efforts throughout the year to support the foundation, which aims to improve the quality of life for young people across Huddersfield and the West Yorkshire area through a variety of activities – including its hugely successful Early Kick Off Breakfast Clubs. Mandy Taylor (centre) is pictured with Sheards’ Kevin Winterburn and Carolyn Atkinson. Kevin said: “After witnessing the impact the Huddersfield Town Foundation has had on the local community over the past 12 months
and the sheer determination of the people behind it we felt we had many skills we could lend to the foundation to ensure their continued success.” Mandy said: “To be supported by a local business with strong links within the town spanning over a century, really is an honour. “The charity serves up to 1,000 healthy breakfasts each school day to deserving children in our community. Every new corporate supporter ultimately ensures that we can not only sustain our 16 Early Kick-Off Clubs and other key initiatives, but also develop and grow.” Sheards’ fundraising activities will include its annual curry night on April 20, which has previously seen more than 100 people attend.
By HENRYK ZIENTEK Business Reporter henryk.zientek@examiner.co.uk
A Huddersfield businessman is taking centre stage to support the arts. Freeserve founder Ajaz Ahmed will host an event in Leeds to showcase the skills of four arts charities, which have joined forces to promote the arts in West Yorkshire and emphasise to businesses the cultural, social and health benefits of getting involved in their programmes. Here to Thrive is a collaboration between Huddersfield-based Chol Theatre, Balbir Singh Dance Company and South Asian Arts UK, both based in Leeds, and Bradford-based visual arts project Fabric. Funding for the joint venture has come from the Arts Council of England. The aim is to provide an opportunity for shared learning and support for the staff and volunteers of the four charities as well as a platform to discuss how charitable income can be attracted from new sources including philanthropy, corporate sponsorship and individual giving. The event, to be held on Thursday, March 19, at the Everyman Cinema in Leeds will include the screening of a film about the consortium, talks from representatives of each charity and the opportunity to meet people who have benefited from the programme. Yorkshire’s business leaders will also be in attendance as Here to Thrive sets out its goal to raise £250,000 independently over the next three years. Bronagh Daly, business development man-
■■ Ajaz Ahmed (second left) with (from left) Sue Burns,, director of Chol Theatre; David Andrassy, of Andrassy Media; and Keranjeet Kaur Virdee, chief executive of South Asian Arts UK
ager for the consortium, said: “We’re really excited to be holding this event and putting into practice all the theory we have discussed around philanthropy. “It is long overdue, but interest in arts philanthropy in West Yorkshire is growing and I am delighted at the positive response we have had from potential donors who want to help. With their support the four charities can continue to support artists, young people and their families.” Over the last year, the member organisa-
tions of the consortium have collectively supported more than 1,000 children in community projects plus another 1,556 young people in schools. They’ve also helped almost 150 artists and arts practitioners to find paid professional work opportunities. Ajaz said: “I’m looking forward to hosting and speaking at the Thrive Arts philanthropy launch. The organisation connects with potential investors to allow their projects to flourish. Its projects make a big difference by touching many people’s lives.”
‘Paperless policies’ raise charity cash Specialist insurance provider Caravan Guard raised £12,227 for Heart Research UK in 2014 – taking to £35,170 the amount amassed for the charity since their partnership was formed in July, 2008. The Halifax company’s “Paperless Policies” initiatives has seen Caravan Guard donate £1 each time a new customer chooses to receive their insurance documentation via email only. Now in its seventh year, the initiative has helped to fund the charity’s important research and groundbreaking projects across the UK. Caravan Guard managing director Ryan Wilby said: “It has been an absolute privilege helping to fund Heart Research UK’s essential work
over the past few years. ‘Paperless Policies’ has proved more successful than any of us could have ever imagined.” Mr Wilby said: “Put simply, it means our customers have the option to receive their insurance documents in a fast, more efficient way via email, while also giving them the opportunity to donate to one of the UK’s much-loved and relevant charities.” The latest funding milestone was announced as representatives from the Leeds-based charity carried out the latest series of healthy heart checks on Caravan Guard staff. Caravan Guard is aiming to generate £15,000 through the initiative this year.
■■ Caravan Guard advisers Tom Shaw (left) and Emma Dean (right), and managing director, Ryan Wilby (centre), present the latest cheque to Sharron Bright (centre left) and Vicki Litherland (centre right) from Heart Research UK
Chance for young entrepreneurs to prove themselves Young entrepreneurs are being recognised on the national stage. Independent education charity the Edge Foundation has teamed up with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy and Gazelle Colleges Group to run the Edge Challenge 2015. The competition is open to past and present students of any FE or sixth form college who are aged
between 16 and 25 and who have taken – or are undertaking – a course of technical, practical or vocational education. They are invited to present a bright and innovative business idea with the opportunity to win up to £4,000 to develop their start up. The winner of the individual challenge will receive £3,000 to develop their start-up along with
the support of a top business mentor for six months. Second and third prizes of £1,250 and £750 will also be awarded. The winning team with up to five participants will receive £4,000 and the support of a mentor to help develop their business proposal. To enter, students must set out their innovative and viable business idea – including a financial
and marketing strategy. The top individual and team entrants will have the chance to showcase their ideas at The Skills Show, which takes place from November 19 to 21 at the NEC in Birmingham. The Peter Jones Enterprise Academy operates at 36 colleges, including Kirklees College. Go to www.edge.co.uk or phone 020 79601540 for more details.