SIMON HOWARTH Talking about his generation Full stor y - Page 5
COLIN BARRATT This could prove costly! Column - Page 4
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Entrepreneur joins bid to boost skills
KIRKLEES College is aiming to help shape the workforce of the future. The college has launched a new foundation degree in business and management following validation from Leeds Metropolitan University. The course, which is now recruiting for September, 2012, is designed to address specific skills gaps in the local economy. It will develop the personal learning and development skills of new, existing and aspiring business men and women in the local area. The Kirklees Council Economic Performance Report suggests that 40% of employers with a workforce exceeding 200, report skills shortages. A study by the now-defunct regional development agency, Yorkshire Forward, suggested these shortages are mainly in the areas of marketing, sales, customer care, management and leadership. Work-based learning is a major element of the course. Placements will give learners first-hand experience of a business environment, developing their skills and putting what they’ve learned into practice. Enterprise is also a key focus and the course will help students to develop their careers and business ideas with the hope of giving back locally – specifically to Dewsbury where the course will take place. The foundation degree can be taken as a part-time course, ideally suited to those already in the workplace.
In these cases professional experience can potentially count towards the achievement of qualification. Richard Turner, business and management award leader at the college, said: “Employers increasingly want to be able to recruit students from college who have the skills and competencies they need. The new foundation degree is intended to provide knowledge and skills that will enable employees to be versatile and adaptable.” L o c a l bu s i n e s s m a n Wa s e e m Naeem, a member of the employer panel that helped to develop the course, said: “The course is a really good idea. It’s been developed locally and is exactly what Kirklees needs. The way the economy will move forward and recover is with entrepreneurs a n d yo u n g bu s i n e s s m e n a n d women.” Waseem, who runs Delicious Desserts delicatessen at Trinity Street, Huddersfield, as well as a recruitment business, said: “Because I’m young, I feel I can relate to young people and the obstacles they face. “Helping to develop this course has allowed me to support them. If I can do it, anyone can and this course will give them the opportunity and learning they need.” Akeel Javid, 20, of Dewsbury, is studying the extended diploma in business level 3 and has applied to start the foundation degree this September.
Yorkshire, said: “Dealing with an inspection by HMRC can be time-consuming and expensive for businesses. “It can be difficult to manage, especially given the raft of new legal powers given to HMRC over the last few years. “This includes the power to turn up unannounced on business premises and demand to inspect the books, records and equipment on site. “Recent experience of similar campaigns suggests that HMRC is likely to
Tackling late pay FIRMS in Yorkshire are tightening up their cash and credit control procedures in a bid to prevent late payments damaging their cashflow, according to experts at Yorkshire Bank. The bank’s invoice finance team found that during the last 10 months, the average time businesses took to collect payments reduced from 52 to 49 days on combined sales of £6.7bn.
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■ ON BOARD: Business tutor Helen Child, left, with, from left, student Akeel Javid, entrepreneur WaseemNaeem, student Mohammed Ali Ibrar and business tutor Jo Holme
He said: “I want to extend my knowledge of the business world with the course. Having local employers involved gives us role models to help us with our own careers. “It’s good for the college and I’m sure the community will be pleased to see it helping Huddersfield and Dewsbury to develop.” Foundation degrees attract students who may not previously have con-
sidered higher education, especially if they have spent some years out of learning. A college spokeswoman said: “The qualifications are a key part of the government’s strategy to widen participation and the number of h i g h e r e d u c at i o n p rog ra m m e s delivered at further education colleges has the potential to grow significantly in coming years.”
Property rental and taxis targeted by taxman TAXI firms and property rental businesses in West Yorkshire have been targeted for a crackdown by HM Revenue & Customs. The move is part of HMRC’s campaign to target specific sectors and industries regarded as a risk to the UK tax base – and collect an additional £50m of unpaid taxes. The campaign may also lead to a number of criminal investigations for alleged tax evasion. Ronnie Pannu, director in PwC’s tax dispute resolution network in West
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use this new power when reviewing the tax affairs of taxi firms and companies and individuals who let property.” Mr Pannu said: “HMRC starting an investigation as part of this campaign or turning up on the doorstep of a business can be a traumatic experience. “However, taxi firms and companies and individuals who let property in Yorkshire need to properly understand HMRC’s powers to review and inspect records and be adequately prepared
for the investigation process. “This has shown to significantly mitigate the impact on the business and ensure that the review is completed efficiently and cost effectively.” Andy Maxfield, senior manager for Grant Thornton’s Yorkshire tax investigations team, said: “HMRC has been gathering intelligence on tax evasion for the last year or so using ‘web crawler’ technology and is likely to have already identified several traders they plan to investigate.”
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Bucking the trend MANY small and medium-sized firms in the north have bucked the recession to maintain a high rate of growth, according to a report. The Business Growth Fund showed that despite turmoil in the stock markets, the worst recession in 60 years and a faltering Eurozone,16% of mid-sized SMEs in the North of England have demonstrated high levels of growth.
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Region’s firms still battling to get paid BUSINESSES in Yorkshire are tightening up their cash and credit control procedures in a bid to prevent late payments damaging their cashflow, according to experts at Yorkshire Bank. The bank’s invoice finance team found that during the last 10 months, the average time businesses took to collect payments reduced from 52 to 49 days on combined sales of £6.7bn. Despite of more invoices getting paid on time, owners are still concerned about the damaging impact late payments and bad debts would have on their businesses. A survey of more than 1,000 UK-wide companies by Yorkshire Bank found that about one in 10 business owners believe they would be forced to close or seriously scale back operations if their customers took more than 90 days to pay invoices. Simon Kitchingman, regional invoice finance partner for Yorkshire Bank, based at its West Yorkshire F i n a n c i a l S o l u t i o n s C e n t re i n Bradford, believes businesses have tightened their credit control procedures because of the growing pressure on cash and the availability of credit. He said: “All businesses, particularly
SMEs, depend on healthy cashflow to pay staff, buy stock and keep on top of their own invoices and bills. “Poor cashflow management can be one of the most critical issues which businesses face, but we believe UK companies have listened to the advice to tighten up their systems and controls.” The Asset-Based Finance Association, which monitors invoice finance across the UK, found that total invoice finance lending in the UK and Ireland last year increased by 7%
year-on-year. Its annual report also found that firms using invoice financing experienced – on average – a 13% growth in sales last year. This is in line with Yorkshire Bank’s findings that, since the start of 2011, 13% of its invoice finance customers also reported an increase in sales. Mr Kitchingman said: “Late payments and bad debts are a headache. They can affect the day-to-day running of a business and the sustainable growth of ambitious and profitable
companies. We are seeing more businesses taking out credit protection alongside their invoice finance facilities to mitigate losses from bad debts.” He said that businesses can take other simple measures to ensure their cashflow procedures are as effective as possible. “Adopting simple procedures such as agreeing payment terms and conditions upfront or using incentives for early payment can have positive effects,” said Mr Kitchingman.. “However, if late payments are a concern or are restricting cashflow, it is important to be rigorous about debt collection – recording conversations, possibly enlisting the services of debt collection agencies but ultimately looking for a swift resolution.” Business and Enterprise Minister Mark Prisk is leading a campaign to reduce late payments which can have a critical impact on businesses, particularly SMEs. The UK Government recently extended its Prompt Payment Code, a code of conduct for all businesses to adhere to when it comes to payment and treatment of suppliers.
Glittering prizes as trainees celebrate success MORE than 350 people attended the annual prize presentation evening held by engineering training provider KITS. Award recipients, family members and friends attended the ceremony at Huddersfield’s Galpharm Stadium. More than 100 certificates and special awards were presented to successful engineering and motor vehicle apprentices. The awards were presented by Karen Sherry, of the regional area relationship team for the Skills Funding Agency. Employer representatives and prize sponsors also attended. The Apprentice of the Year Award went to Phillip Francis (pictured left), a mechanical apprentice with Slaithwaite hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders manufacturer Hystat Ltd.
KITS chairman Alan Jagger presented the occupational area awards, Including ones for best engineer and moor vehicle apprentices. Awards to first-year apprentices in mechanical, electrical and fabrication were presented by KITS chief executive David Todhunter. He said: “This was another tremendous evening celebrating the record achievement of learners and I watch with interest their career development.” Brighouse-based KITS has delivered engineering, electrical, fabrication and motor vehicle training for more than 20 years at its training centre in Armytage Road, supporting local employers with their apprenticeship and other training requirements.
Customer service pays off CHARTERED accountancy firm Clough & Company is one of three Yorkshire businesses to receive top awards in recognition of customer service. The Cleckheaton-based firm was awarded the highest possible rating of “exceptional” in the awards, which are run by Investor In Customers and assess customer experiences and satisfaction levels across all industries. IIC independently assesses customer satisfaction levels through anonymous surveys undertaken with customers, employees and other business connections.
The criteria looks at how a company ensures its customers are the main drivers for processes, innovation and profitability throughout its operations. Steven Gash, practice chairman at Clough & Company, said: “We have always treated customer service as one of our main priorities and this award proves that we listen to our customers and provide them with exactly what they are looking for. “At a time when many accountancy firms are merging, we have always prided ourselves on maintaining both our independent and chartered status, which
enables us to forge extremely strong relationships with our clients and this is certainly reflected in this award.” Neil Craig, managing director of IIC, said: “In these austere economic times, it’s more important than ever that businesses ensure they offer the highest levels of customer service. “Clough and Company has achieved this by putting their customers at the heart of everything they do and thoroughly deserve this awards which will act as a big incentive for potential new customers.”
■ PRIDE: Steven Gash, of Clough and Company
Page 2 Treble top for mutual YORKSHIRE Building Society has been recognised for its excellence in mortgages at the 2012 Moneyfacts Awards. The society, which has its roots in Huddersfield, was named Building Society Mortgage Provider of the Year for a second consecutive year, as well as receiving a number of other accolades. The awards were presented to companies that have consistently offered the most competitive products, the best levels of service and shown the greatest innovation in the personal finance world during the past 12 months. The Bradford-based mutual also won Best Short Term Fixed Rate Mortgage Provider and Best Longer Term Fixed Rate Mortgage Provider, as well as being highly commended or commended in a further three categories In addition, Chelsea Building Society, part of the Yorkshire Building Society group, was highly commended in the Best Longer Term Fixed Rate Mortgage Provider category.
Focus is on growth WAYS to grow your business will be the focus on a seminar staged by the Huddersfield-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce next week. The latest 60 Useful Minutes event will be led by Business Doctor Neil Kendall and will help delegates develop a 10-step growth plan for their firms. The session takes place from 8.30am to 10am on June 14 at the chamber's premises at Lockwood Park. The aim is to help firms understand the bottom line benefits of their core values, think like a customer, “future proof” their business, understand your sustainable competitive advantage and increase profitability. The free seminar will be particularly valuable to businesses with two or more employees who are seeking long-term business growth. Contact Tracy Smith on 01484 483679 or email tracy.smith@mycci.co.uk
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Football, F1 and fashion! LEGAL eagles Natalie Gibson and Jennifer Stroud are flying high in Huddersfield. The two solicitors have been appointed to head the new Queen Street offices of well-established family law specialist Makin Dixon. While Jennifer has transferred from the firm’s Todmorden office and is new to the town, Natalie has joined Makin Dixon from Holroyd & Co in Milnsbridge. Both are now making contacts in the local business community. Natalie, 29, who was brought up in Edgerton and now lives at Salendine Nook, is a member of Huddersfield Incorporated Law Society and serves on its committee. She is also a member of regional businesswomen’s networking group Forward Ladies. She went to Greenhead College before gaining a law degree at Huddersfield University. She joined Holroyd & Co and worked as a para-legal before qualifying as a solicitor in 2007. Jennifer, 27, who grew up in Wyke and now lives at Rastrick, attended Whitcliffe Mount in Cleckheaton. Like Natalie, she took law at Huddersfield University before joining Makin Dixon in 2007 and qualifying in 2010. She worked at the firm’s Keighley office before qualifying and switching to the Todmorden site. Says Natalie: “I always knew from an early age that I wanted to do law. My careers adviser had high expectations for me – saying I was a good listener and meticulous about paying attention to detail.” Jennifer says: “My family always said I was going to be a solicitor. When I went to sixth form college, they didn’t have an A-level law course. But they allowed a few of us to do A-level law via distance learning, which was excellent.” Natalie has retained her links with the university by mentoring law students. “I help them apply for jobs and put together their CVs,” she says. “I have also had students work-shadowing me. It’s good to put something back.” At Makin Dixon, Natalie and Jennifer handle general family law matters – principally Legal Aid work – with particular emphasis on emergency protection work, representing victims of domestic violence. Both Natalie and Jennifer are members of Resolution, a body of lawyers committed to resolving disputes amicably. Natalie is also a collaborative lawyer, where parties commit to resolving their disputes without going to court. Natalie and Jennifer recognise that “people” skills are vital in their work. Says Jennifer: “People come to us for help when they are often at their lowest ebb. Helping to get them through the ordeal is the most
rewarding thing about this job. When the ordeal is concluded, they are so grateful for what we’ve done.” Natalie adds: “The satisfaction comes from helping people when they need help most of all.” Makin Dixon, led by partners Caroline Makin and Jane Campbell, has undergone an expansion phase in recent years. Jennifer says: “There were only two offices – Bradford and Keighley – when I joined in 2007. Now, there are seven.” While the firm has been active strengthening its position in the region, Natalie and Jennifer have been putting the word out themselves. “In the short time we have been here, we’ve become responsible for Makin Dixon’s Twitter account, @makindixon” says Natalie. “And we’ve just counted our 100th follower! Twitter is great for keeping people informed. We provide links to family law-related updates. There’s a lot at present about the changes to Legal Aid, for example.” The firm also has a Facebook page. However, the two solicitors are convinced that technology can only do so much to build a business and secure its reputation and providing a “Rolls Royce, personal service in today’s consumer society helps to ensure quality to clients”. Natalie recalls her first experience of the world of work. “I worked at the Merrie England restaurant in Oakes,” she says. “I used to make a good beef sandwich” Jennifer’s first job was working for HSBC at the Euroway Trading Estate, but while at university she did voluntary work at the Citizens’ Advice Bureau. That ethos still holds good at Makin Dixon. Natalie says: “We do a lot with domestic violence charities. For instance, we provide a hamper every year for the Pennine Domestic Violence Group’s Christmas party.” Away from work, Natalie and Jennifer share a love of good local restaurants, Formula One and football
Makin Dixon Solicitors Work: Family law firm Site: Huddersfield Phone: 01484 515993 Email: natalie.gibson@ makin dixon.co.uk and jennifer.stroud @makindixon.co.uk Web: www.makin dixon.co.uk
■ HOME GROUND: Natalie Gibson (left) and Jennifer Stroud, of Makin Dixon Solicitors, at the firm’s new offices in Huddersfield – although they are rivals when it comes to who they support. While Natalie is a Manchester United fan, Jennifer cheers on Arsenal. It makes for some friendly banter in the office, says Jennifer. Natalie says: “I do enjoy reading, although I don’t read as much as I used to. I love fashion, health and beauty and keeping up to date with the latest trends. I also love the South of France and I have been to Monaco – although, unfortunately, not for the Grand Prix.” Jennifer, who lists Egypt, Tunisia, Greece and Spain among her holiday destinations, adds: “Music was my main hobby. I started with the recorder when I was about five and moved on to the flute, clarinet and saxophone when I was at high school. My claim to fame is once performing with John Briggs at St Paul’s Hall in Huddersfield. I was also a member of the Kirklees Chorale. “I enjoyed playing, but I was never going to make it ‘big time’ as a performer and I was never going to teach music. I loved playing, but I didn’t like the theory.” Both Natalie and Jennifer are more than happy in their new roles in Huddersfield, however, “One of the best things about the job for me is the variety, says Natalie. “You don’t know who is going to walk through the door next.”
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Tory peer to open nonwovens event CONSERVATIVE politician Baroness Warsi (pictured) will be the keynote speaker at a major textiles seminar in West Yorkshire. The UK Nonwovens Network’s 15th summer seminar, entitled The Dynamics of Progress, will be held on Thursday, July 12, at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford. The event will bring together a group of professionals to discuss issues affecting the future of the nonwovens sector – which provides products ranging from nappies and face wipes to specialist materials for the construction, filtration, engineering and automotive industries. “We are delighted to announce that Baroness Warsi has accepted our invitation to open the 15th anniversary seminar of the Nonwovens Network,” said network secretary Chris Wilkinson. “The network has grown progressively over the past 15 years, but it does need continued support to ensure its future.” Other speakers will include Pierre Conrath, a director of the Europe-based nonwovens industry association EDANA; Alan Cottenden, of University College London; and Andrew Day, professor of quality engineering at Ford Motors, based at Bradford University.
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Mistakes can prove costly VER the next few weeks, O businesses will be busy reporting to HM Revenue &
Customs expenses payments made and benefit in kind provided to their employees on forms P11D for the year ended April 5, 2012, in readiness for the filing deadline of July 6. The completion of forms P11D can be a laborious task as well as a potentially costly one if they are not correctly completed as the Revenue can impose penalties up to 100% of the tax and national insurance contributions (NIC) unpaid, together with interest charges. Common P11D mistakes found by the Revenue when they review employer business records are: ● Interest-free or subsidised loan benefits – No taxable benefit will arise if the total amount of loan does not exceed £5,000 at any time in the tax year. Often, loans exceeding this figure do arise, but are also repaid before the end of the year but a benefit in kind will still arise and this needs reporting on form P11D ● Cars provided to employees for their private use – The benefit in kind charge is determined by a combination of the car’s list price, optional extras and vehicle’s CO2 emission. Sometimes, businesses do not use the correct list price or forget to include optional extras
TAX TALK Colin Barratt
when preparing forms P11D leading to additional tax/NIC liabilities ● Employer-owned cars and vans only used for business purposes – There are strict conditions for tax exemption to be given for any incidental private use by employees of such “pool” vehicles and frequently the Revenue obtain additional tax and NIC due to the lack of records kept by businesses to support pool status or because an employee has used the car on more than “incidental” occasions ● Assets owned by a business and transferred to employees – A benefit in kind arises if the price paid for the asset is less than its market value. Additional liabilities arise as the Revenue do not always accept the value paid by employees for such assets. It is advisable to obtain a third party valuation where the asset is of substantial value such as a car or house etc in order to counter Revenue attempts to imply that a benefit in kind
arises ● Business Mileage Allowances – No records being kept to support the payment at tax-free rates of 45p for the first 10,000 miles and 25p thereafter in employees’ own vehicles ● Home telephones – A benefit in kind arises if the business pays the employee’s private phone bill. Often the bill is in the employee’s name and the more expensive payroll NIC will be due instead of the usual Class 1A NIC associated with P11Ds. The Revenue can go back a number of tax years when looking at business records and mistakes as mentioned above can result in unexpected and expensive tax bills. Forms P11D submitted after the July 6 deadline will also attract a penalty of £100 per month or part month of lateness, for every 50 or part-batch of 50 employees provided with benefits.
Colin Barratt is tax partner at Wheawill and Sudworth chartered accountants, Huddersfield
Law firms doing better YORKSHIRE law firms are showing signs of growth, according to new research. The Law Society’s Law Management Section annual profitability survey, sponsored by Lloyds TSB Commercial, suggest that practice fee income for legal firms has increased by 1% in 2011 – as law practices continue to recover from the impact of the recession. In 2010, firms in the region saw a marginal increase in practice fee income of 0.2% after a 6.5% in 2009. The survey of LMS member firms also revealed that average net profit per equity partner increased from £112,549 to £114,853 – a rise of 2%. Law Society President John Wotton said: “Now in its 12th year, the survey is widely regarded as the annual financial health check, particularly for the smaller end of the legal profession.” Craig Bennett, senior manager
covering specialist markets for Lloyds TSB Commercial in Yorkshire said: “This year’s survey shows admirable resilience on the part of solicitors. “Fee income rose slightly against difficult economic conditions, while median net profit increased by 2% – a modest rise, but nevertheless building on last year’s improvement. “Last year’s respondents predicted that income growth might be around 1% and they were spot on. This year, they are forecasting 3% growth, so hopefully there are better times ahead. Respondents again commented positively on the support provided by their bank and this is pleasing. “This is a key focus for Lloyds TSB Commercial and latest figures show that we have achieved a growth in lending to the sector of 5% in the past year.” The survey also showed a slight decline in the number of support
staff per fee earner from 0.65 to 0.61, an average saving per fee earner of £821. The survey’s 181 participants reported total recruitment costs of £2.77m paid to recruit 1,050 people. This is about 11% of the reported workforce and runs ahead of the £2.1m and 8% in the 2010 survey. The median spend on non-salary overheads per fee earner was £38,142 compared with £37,163 in 2010, an increase of 2.6%. The survey helps firms plan for future financial objectives; big profit increases require detailed understanding of financial performance. Benchmarking against other firms helps firms face up to the challenges of the new legal services environment, and consider the benefits of external investment.
KIRKLEES BUSIN All eyes on a national prize
BUSINESSES in Kirklees have been urged to compete for a national prize. Companies with no more that £25m turnover in their last financial year have been invited to enter the National Business Awards’ Small to Medium-sized Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Santander Corporate Banking. The award recognises companies that have maintained consistent growth and strong financial performance. Entrants will be asked to demonstrate a clear understanding of their customers, full buy-in from staff and how they have delivered on core strategic objectives. The National Business Awards recognise the best-performing organisations in the public, private and third sectors – from thriving SMEs, dynamic entrepreneurs and enterprising charities to FTSE 100 businesses. Visit www.national businessawards.co.uk Finalists will be announced on August 2 and the awards will be presented at a gala dinner and dinner and awards ceremony on Tuesday, November 13, at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel.
Award date for lawyers
LAWYERS across Kirklees have been urged to enter a regional competition. Nominations are now open for the 2012 Yorkshire Lawyer Awards, which will culminate with a ceremony and dinner on October 3 at Saviles Hall in Leeds. The awards, supported by the Yorkshire Union of Law Societies, will recognise the achievements of people across 17 categories. Last year, DLA Piper walked away with a hat-trick of awards – corporate and commercial, corporate recovery and commercial. Peter McCormick, joint president of the Yorkshire Lawyer Awards, said: “Last year saw record nominations from an even wider variety of firms, but we are keen to invite more firms and individuals from all corners of the region to become involved.” To view the full award criteria and make a nomination visit www.yorkshirelawyer awards.co.uk. The deadline for entries is July 9, 2012. As well as honouring excellence in the Yorkshire legal profession, the awards will also raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research.
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■ WINNING RECIPE: David Pratt (left), retiring managing director of Total Foodservice, with his successor Simon Howarth
It’s a new generation A HUDDERSFIELD business has reached a milestone – with the fourth generation of its founding family taking the helm. Simon Howarth, deputy managing director of catering wholesaler Total Foodservice, is taking up the reins of the business with the retirement of current managing director David Pratt after 40 years in the food service industry. George Henry Howarth, Simon’s great-grandfather, set up the business almost a century ago as a fruit preserver distributing to shops in the Huddersfield area. The business now employs 110 people and has an annual turnover of £15m,. Simon said: “The heritage of our business is a source of great pride. To become the fourth member of my family to lead the business has been a lifelong goal and I’m looking forward to the challenges this will bring to ensure profitable business for our customers and ourselves for many years to come. “I’d like to thank David for the exceptional drive he has shown in leading the business over the past 16 years. He will be sorely missed.”
I n 1 9 9 0 , D av i d j o i n e d H owa r t h Foodservice – as the business was then known – after 25 years working for various wholesalers in South Wales. He was elected to the board as commercial director in 1992 and became managing director in 1996. “My time at Total Foodservice has been the most exciting, challenging and enjoyable years of my career,” said David. “I can leave the firm in the secure knowledge it is at its most successful to date and will continue to grow under the leadership of Simon and the whole board. “I’d like to thank all of the colleagues, suppliers and customers I have worked with, past and present, for their friendship and support and I wish Simon and the team all the success they deserve.” Total Foodservice, which has a depot at Dalton, recently opened a 36,000sq ft flagship depot distribution base in Clitheroe, Lancashire. The firm serves the North of England with frozen, chilled and ambient foods as well as non-food and cleaning products.
Society branches out YORKSHIRE Building Society, which has its roots in Huddersfield, is bucking the trend of bank branch closures by opening three new sites over the next few weeks. The openings mark the first steps in the Yorkshire’s plans to expand its retail network by opening 12 new branches over the next two years and follow
the opening of 16 new agencies over the last year. Pudsey branch has already opened its doors while the Ilkley branch will open on June 6 and Bingley’s new branch will open on June 11. The openings will take the Bradford-based society’s total number of high street branches to 227 and will create 14 jobs.
MANY small and medium-sized companies in the north have bucked the recession to maintain a high rate of growth, according to a report. Data commissioned from Experian by the Business Growth Fund showed that despite continued turmoil in the stock markets, the worst recession in 60 years and a faltering Eurozone,16% of mid-sized SMEs in the North of England have demonstrated high levels of growth. These “high growth” companies – all with turnovers of between £2.5m and £100m – have
each expanded by at least 33% in the last three years. Of the 635 high growth companies identified in the North, 231 are in Yorkshire, 316 are located in the North West and 88 in the North East. The BGF Growth Companies Barometer identifies 25,533 UK companies with turnovers of £2.5m to £100m. Of those, 4,013 are based in the North of England. Some 1,517 are based in Yorkshire with 1,956 in the North West and 540 based in the North East. The Barometer tracks the performance of these SMEs over a 10-year
period. Although the size of this population has remained consistent since 2000, the proportion of high growth companies in the North of England has declined by 9% in the last three years. Andy Gregory, BGF regional director for North of England, said: “This data highlights that despite challenging market conditions, there is a steady base of UK SMEs that continue to thrive across the UK. “It demonstrates the resilience of the group and the underlying quality of UK entrepreneurship. “
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Court ruling raises clause for concern ■ STATESIDE: Jonathan Wimpwenny, president of RIBA- USA, with Angela Brady, president of the President Royal Institute of British Architects, at the British Embassy in Washington
Architect is flying the flag HUDDERSFIELD-born architect Jonathan Wimpenny has been flying the flag for British construction and design in the USA. Mr Wimpenny, who has his practice in New York, welcomed Angela Brady, president of the Royal Institute of British Architects, to a special reception held at the British ambassador’s residence in Washington. Mr Wimpenny, a member of the well-known Wimpenny family of builders in Huddersfield, is a member of RIBA and president of RIBA-USA, which represents British architects working in the States. RIBA-USA has chapters in New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, Phoenix, San Francisco and Boston. Earlier the same day, Mr Wimpenny was moderator for a series of talks given by prominent RIBA-USA members at the American Institute of Architects Convention in Washington. It is the first time that RIBA-USA has been included in the convention.
BU S I N E S S t e n a n t s a c ro s s Kirklees have been urged to check and double check the small print on their lease break clauses following a landmark court case which left a firm up to £300,000 out of pocket. The business affected fell victim to a High Court judge ruling in favour of a landlord who had challenged the business’s right to break its lease. The case highlights the pitfalls involved in operating break notices and the conditions that must be met. Simon Armitage, of the corporate solutions division at property
firm Colliers in West Yorkshire, said: “The fact that the case hung on an outstanding sum of less than £200 has serious implications, proving again the importance of proper consideration of what might be termed the small print in commercial leases. "The landlord contested the attempted operation of the break as invalid. “The judge ruled in favour and held that the tenant could not operate the break because a small sum remained unpaid – despite it not being invoiced. “The amount involved was interest on late payment of rent at
some point during the lease term. “Only after the attempted break operation had the landlord claimed the interest. However, the judge ruled that the tenant should have known this sum was due. “The tenant continues to be liable for rent and other costs for the next five years – potentially in excess of £300,000.” Mr Armitage said: “Whilst the judgement may seem harsh, it highlighted the need for careful analysis of lease terms and conditions to ensure compliance. “This includes payment of rent and numerous other requirements such as repair and decoration.
“Tenants cannot assume that they can just walk away on a break date. “People may act independently and not take specialist advice due to initial costs, but this case stresses the importance of obtaining valuable advice and how it can eventually save significant costs. “In the present tough economic climate, landlords will scrutinise the validity of any break notice so there is a clear and present need for careful planning and specialist advice prior to the service of a break notice to ensure compliance.”
Tenant demand feeds rent hikes RENTS across Yorkshire rose significantly in the three months to April – as fresh tenant demand continued to exceed new instructions, a survey has revealed. The latest RICS Residential Lettings Survey showed that 11% more chartered surveyors in the region reported rents rising rather than falling in the three months to April. This growth was largely driven by consistently high demand as a net balance of 20% more respondents reported rises in prospective tenants. Rental values across the UK have now grown consistently since 2009 as the problem of
unaffordable mortgage finance and large deposits required by lenders remain a barrier to home ownership, with many potential buyers forced to turn to the rental market. Significantly, supply of property to the Yorkshire market continues to rise, albeit at a slower pace, with 8% more surveyors reporting increases rather than decreases in landlords looking to let their properties, compared to plus 21% in the previous period. Landlords’ gross yields also continued to rise during the early part of the year, although the pace of growth has begun to slow. This was the case in every part of
the UK except London where tenant demand also saw a slight downturn. Surveyors in Yorkshire are positive that the market will remain buoyant over the next three months, with 8% more predicting rents will rise rather than fall. Across the UK, all areas expect rents to continue to increase with the exception of Scotland where expectations entered negative
territory for the first time since October, 2009. RICS regional spokesman Bruce Collinson said: “The rental market will continue to be buoyant as long as the challenges facing the sales market exist, especially the lack of available mortgage finance. “As long as tenant demand continues to outpace supply, we’ll continue to see rents increase, adding to the pressure on many households who are already struggling financially in the current climate, where the cost of most things, including food, utilities and petrol has risen significantly.”
Renewable energy champ up for prize A BRIGHOUSE businessman has been shortlisted for a top regional award. Chris Hopkins (pictured right), managing director of renewable energy specialist Ploughcroft, is in the running for the North Entrepreneur of the Year Award. He was selected as a finalist from hundreds of entrants across the North of England for the annual awards, which recognise excellence in business success.
The regional winner in the competition run by professional services firm Ernst & Young will be announced on June 26 at a ceremony in Manchester. The winner from each of four UK regions will go through to the national final to compete for the title of UK Entrepreneur Of The Year. The UK winner will then be entered into the firm’s international awards. Mr Hopkins said: "It is really exciting to be shortlisted for this
award. I hope that my story will help to inspire other entrepreneurs to overcome their challenges and grow their businesses significantly, even in difficult economic times.” Mr Hopkins was recognised by the judges for his entrepreneurial spirit, innovation and the ability to lead and build teams. He has already gained national recognition by securing investment from Deborah Meaden and Theo Paphitis on BBC's Dragons Den.
Call to back work experience scheme CONSTRUCTION employers in Kirklees are being urged by the industry’s sector skills council to get involved in a two-week work experience programme to give youngsters the chance to find out what working in the industry is like. CITB-ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council and Industry Training Board for the
construction industry, is calling on local employers to sign up for the second year of its work experience programme Experience Construction, The scheme offers young people the chance to work with local companies and get a taste of life in the industry as well as pick up important trade skills. Participating companies will
receive personal support from a CITB-ConstructionSkills apprenticeship officer and a simple and cost-effective way of finding and recruiting the best young candidates. Mick Hamill, regional delivery manager for CITB-ConstructionSkills in Yorkshire, said: “This is a great opportunity for construction
companies to put themselves forward and contribute to the future of their industry. "The industry is facing a potential skills gap and so this scheme aims to inspire the next generation of construction workers, bringing new blood into the industry.” Visit www.cskills.org for further details.
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS ANNOUNCEMENT – AUCTION THURSDAY 19 JULY 2012 7pm
At The Cedar Court Hotel, Lindley Moor Road, Huddersfield, HD3 3RH
Clough Ing Barn
Lumb Lane, Almondbury, Huddersfield, HD4 6SZ
Lofty barn (150m2) with stable block, ripe for residential conversion. Stunning rural location with panoramic views.
Guide Price: £175,000 – £225,000
JANUARY 2012 AUCTION 90% SUCCESS RATE
28 Waterhouse Street Halifax, HX1 1UQ
Town Centre Shop requiring full renovation with residential potential on upper floors. Close to Yorkshire Bank and Broad Street Plaza.
Guide Price: £50,000
Dean Bottom Works
Storthes Hall, Huddersfield, HD8 0PP
■ SUITE SUCCESS: Stephen Frakes (left) and Andrew Locke at Bathrooms By Design
Former pub has new lease of life THE former Three Horseshoes at Skelmanthorpe is doing great business in its new guise as the home of Bathrooms by Design – following a major refurbishment of the Commercial Road property. The move was the brainchild of self-employed plumber, heating and tiling specialist Andrew Locke, who has transformed the former bar area and vaulted cellar to provide 40 well-lit bays displaying a wide range of bathroom suites, showers and accessories such as underfloor heating, heated towel rails, mirrors, furniture, walk in showers and many working bays. The pub car park means the showroom also has free parking for customers. Stephen Frakes, who has eight years’ experience in the industry, has been appointed manager at Bathrooms by Design, which also has the e x p e r t i s e o f A n d r e w ’s 26-year-old plumbing business behind it.
Said Mr Frakes: “It was a bit of a gamble to open a new showroom during the economic downturn, but Andrew has an excellent reputation and it is proving a success. “The showroom occupies a prominent site on a road used by people to get to Huddersfield, Wakefield and South Yorkshire. “We offer a design and installation service. “We offer a free survey to help people make sure they get the right products and we can call on plumbers, tilers, electricians, plaster’s and joiners if people want us to fit their bathrooms as well. We offer the full package.” Mr Locke said the showroom has been carefully laid out to provide plenty of space for customers to see the bathroom settings. “We wanted to make customers feel welcome. We have a well-lit showroom and a warm and friendly atmosphere” he said. “To take the stress out of
buying a bathroom, we have a DVD player, books, toys and even a bath with goldfish in to keep children occupied. Bathrooms by Design also uses new technology to gain an edge. As well as offering 3D design it is on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube can be viewed on its website w w w. b a t h r o o m s b y designhuddersfield.co.uk “Changing your bathroom can involve a lot of expense and we make it as easy as possible,” said Mr Locke.. “In the current economic climate, people are choosing to stay in their own houses and improve their properties rather than moving. “They are investing in improving their own properties. Said Mr Frakes: “We are a local company working with other local businesses and we are keen to support the local community.”
Highlights of safety training A COMPANY providing safety training for people working at height has joined a campaign to raise awareness of the mobile access tower industry. Astra Access Safety Training is working with the Prefabricated Access Suppliers and Manufactures Association, the lead body of the mobile tower industry. PASMA has launched Yorkshire Tower Week at the Royal Armouries in
Leeds – and Astra is following the event with a week of free events, including tower build demonstrations, mobile tower equipment inspections and half-price training courses. More than 50,000 people successfully undertake PASMA training each year and at least 1,000 of those are expected to obtain their training with Astra during 2012.
The open days come as more companies and health and safety practitioners seek objective proof that staff are competent in the assembly, use, inspection and dismantling of towers. The campaign has also been welcomed by the Health and Safety Executive, local authorities and major contractors. Contact 0800 121 4951 or visit www.astratraining.co.uk
0.34 Hectares (0.84 Acres) industrial land and buildings. Potential for other uses subject to planning permission.
Guide Price: On Application
Town Hall Hotel
52 Huddersfield Road, Elland HX5 9AH
Former public house 213m2 (2293 sq ft) located close to Co-op supermarket, Berties Banqueting Rooms and La Cachette. Planning consent for extension and change of use to C1 hotel and B1 office.
Guide Price: £105,000 – £115,000
OCTOBER 2012 AUCTION ENTRIES NOW INVITED
Former Honley Council Offices Eastgate, Honley HD6 6PA
Prominent landmark building with waterside frontage. Situated close to village centre, offering extensive accommodation on three levels. Planning application submitted for residential conversion.
Guide Price: £125,000+
25 – 29 Market Street Huddersfield, HD1 2HL
Substantial town centre commercial property/site opposite Sainsbury’s. Exciting development/conversion opportunity.
Guide Price: £95,000+
Moorlands
Moorlands Road, Marsh, Huddersfield HD3 3UH
Modern detached three bedroom house in pleasant residential location with good sized gardens, in need of some refurbishment.
Guide Price: £100,000+
58 Market Street
Milnsbridge, Huddersfield HD3 4HT
Prominent commercial property in centre of Milnsbridge. Suitable for a variety of uses subject to planning permission. Refurbishment/ conversion opportunity with good investment potential.
Guide Price: £35,000+
42 Manchester Road
Slaithwaite, Huddersfield HD7 5JA
Detached character dwelling in need of modernisation. Semi rural location with excellent views. Suitable for owner occupation/rental purposes.
Guide Price: £95,000+
76 Ashbrow Road
Sheepridge, Huddersfield HD2 1DF
Stone built cottage requiring full modernisation in popular residential location. Elevated position with superb views. Gardens to front and rear.
Guide Price: £35,000+
31 Market Street
Heckmondwike, WF16 0EU
Substantial town centre retail/office building with secure yard. Upper parts suitable for residential subject to planning permission.
Guide Price: £45,000+
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Allan Layfield
Parker Bird Gardner A LAW firm in Huddersfield has made a key appointment. Parker Bird Gardner Solicitors, which has offices at Queen Street, has appointed Allan Layfield as a director. During the past 10 years, Mr Layfield (pictured) has specialised in all aspects of family law, including divorce, separation, domestic abuse and matters involving children, including those relating to parents whose children have been removed from their care by the local authority. He has particular experience and specialism in the distribution of assets following relationship breakdowns. He is an accredited member of the Resolution Advanced Family Law Panel, a trained collaborative lawyer and is a member of the Kirklees Collaborative Family Law Group.
Jenna Hardy
Approach PR HUDDERSFIELD University graduate Jenna Hardy has joined Bradford-based public relations consultancy Approach PR as junior account executive. Ms Hardy (pictured), 23, who graduated last year in fashion media and promotion from the university’s school of art, design and architecture, will support the Approach team with a number of clients, including kitchen manufacturer In-toto. She has already gained industry experience in the fashion, music and lifestyle sectors, having worked for three successful PR consultancies in Leeds, Manchester and London during her university sandwich year. During this time, she had the opportunity to work alongside big brands such as professional hair care experts BaByliss PRO and high street fashion label Hobbs London Ltd.
Movers and shakers
Making a stand to help stadium
EMPLOYMENT law specialist Howarths is in the box seat after signing a further extension to a sporting sponsorship deal. Cleckheaton-based Howarths will again sponsor the north stand lower tier at Huddersfield’s Galpharm Stadium in a deal with Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd. Howarths already works with the stadium, providing specialist human resources and employment law services. The company has grown considerably over the last couple of years, including a move to much larger premises to accommodate its growing business needs. Stadium managing director Gareth Davies said: “I am delighted to be continuing our partnership with Andy Howarth and his team and look forward to developing
this further, working with them going forward.” Andy Howarth, managing director of Howarths, said: “Howarths has a fabulous relationship with the team at the Galpharm and we have worked closely with them for the last six years providing support in the form of our employment law service whilst Gareth and his team continually promotes and supports our growing business. “To be associated with the Galpharm Stadium has helped our business to expand and in becoming a recognised brand name in Kirklees and beyond and the decision to extend this relationship for a further three years was an easy and obvious commercial decision.”
■ HOT SEAT: Gareth Davies (second left), of Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd, with Andy Howarth, managing director of Howarths and his colleagues Tracey Hopkins (left) and Justine Egan
Hat-trick success for training company and Town A TRAINING company has extended its official partnership with Huddersfield Town into a third season. Dale Carnegie, founded in 1912, has a worldwide reputation as a leading training provider for businesses of all sizes, supporting organisations to develop their talent. The company has been associated with the Terriers since
2006 before becoming an official partner in the run-up to the 2010/11 season. Juliette Dennett, Mirfield-based managing director of Dale Carnegie Training, said: “We’re delighted to continue our relationship with Huddersfield Town. “The club is continuing to make waves both on the pitch and on the business side.”
Flooring the opposition
Richard Gage
Orchard Energy ENERGY advice business Orchard Energy has promoted Richard Gage to the new post of regional manager for the North of England. Mr Gage (pictured) will take control of a region covering Yorkshire and the North West as far as the Scottish border. Gareth Henderson, managing director of the Elland-based business, said: “Richard is a highly motivated and knowledgeable member of our energy team and the additional management role will enable us to win new business and maintain high levels of client service as our business grows. “Recent recruitment has also boosted sales and support at head office in Yorkshire and we will be expanding each of our regional teams in the North East, Midlands, South West, South East, Scotland and Wales during 2012.”
Page 8
■ COVERED: Darren Robinson (left), Quick-Step Flooring Academy manager presents the award to Nigel Bawn, of Bawn Flooring & Aspley Carpets A FLOORING installer in Huddersfield has it covered. Nigel Bawn, of Bawn Flooring & Aspley Carpets, is one of the first flooring installers in the UK to achieve the prestigious title of Quick-Step Master Installer after completing a rigorous training and assessment programme at the Quick-Step Academy for Excellence in Flooring. Said Nigel: “To be among the first
Quick-Step Master Installers in England is a great achievement. “Having my skills and professionalism accredited by the largest wood and laminate manufacturer in the world in these difficult times is amazing and allows me to offer a two-year installation warranty on Quick- Step to my customers. No one else can do that.”
Town commercial director Sean Jarvis said: “In the first year, we launched the Executive Programme – a training course for company executives and directors a joint venture that has proved a great success. “This year, we looked at how we could not only improve the performance of our own staff, but also how our relationship can reward businesses in the region.”
Chris Ross
Chadwick Lawrence LAW firm Chadwick Lawrence, which has offices in Huddersfield, has appointed Chris Ross as partner in the commercial property department at Leeds. Mr Ross, pictured (centre) with managing partner Jeremy Garside (left) and employment law partner Neil Wilson, has worked as a solicitor in Leeds for almost 40 years, initially starting at DLA after qualifying and moving to Yorkshire from London. He worked as a group solicitor for ASDA before joining Booth & Co, now Addleshaw Goddard, as partner. After three years, he moved to McGuinness Finch, a firm which focused solely on commercial property, before joining Read Hind Stuart in 1995, which then merged with Cobbetts in 2002. Mr Garside said: “Attracting people of Chris’s calibre further strengthens our position as an operator in the Leeds market and also enhances our overall offering in the wider Yorkshire area.”