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An EXAMINER publication
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Business brokers aim to boost jobs
A KIRKLEES apprentice is encouraging other young women to consider a career in engineering – as figures show that just 3% of those starting engineering apprenticeships in the UK over the past two years have been female. Megan Lunn, of Meltham, is in the third year of an apprenticeship with global engineering firm Reliance Precision. S h e i s wo rk i n g t owa rd s a n Advanced Modern Apprenticeship in mechanical engineering – spending one day in the classroom at Kirklees College and the rest of the week at the company’s Lepton headquarters. Since September, 2011 – when Megan started with Reliance – some 23,510 men have started engineering apprenticeships compared to just 760 women. Kirklees is now aiming to increase the opportunities available for young people and businesses through apprenticeships and is one of eight apprenticeship hubs in the Leeds City Region. A Business Brokers scheme has been set up to provide firms across all sectors with the advice needed to identify where roles can be created and what financial support is available. A key sector being supported is engineering – building on the district’s industrial heritage – and Megan says her teacher at Honley High School gave her the idea of an apprenticeship. “I was really interested in science and technology at school, but wanted to use that practically rather than continuing to just study for years,” she said. “My teacher recommended an
■ SKILL SET: Apprentice Megan Lunn, of Meltham, is in the third year of an apprenticeship with global engineering firm Reliance Precision
apprenticeship with Reliance Precision would be the best route for me and he was right. I get to learn skills in a real engineering company with experiences you could never get in the classroom.” A government report, Tomorrow’s
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Engineers, found the UK has the lowest percentage of female engineering professionals in Europe. Megan says this spurred her on, adding: “For me, often being the only female has not been a problem and no-one has ever treated me any differently.
“I would encourage any girl interested in science and engineering to go for it and would love to see more and more female engineers coming into the industry in the future.” Grants of up to £1,500 are available to fund new apprenticeships in businesses of up to 1,000 employees which have not taken on an apprentice in the past year and Kirklees Business Brokers are able to help companies explore the best option for them and unlock that funding. Kirklees Council leader Clr Mehboob Khan said: “Kirklees has a strong heritage of engineering and Megan’s story shows the importance of apprenticeships to ensuring our area continues to be a world leader in the industry. “Kirklees Council, in partnership with Leeds City Region, is committed to helping businesses grow and develop their workforce by introducing apprenticeships. Our Business Brokers scheme is helping more companies to find the grants, incentives and other free support available so they can support their firm’s growth, and offer opportunities to young people, through apprenticeships.” He said: “With so few females in this country choosing engineering as a career option, it is encouraging to see that companies like Reliance Precision are helping buck that trend here in Kirklees. “I would encourage other companies to contact the Business Brokers to find out how apprentices can support their work.” Contact the Business Brokers team on 01484 437075 or e-mail apphub@kirklees.gov.uk
INSIDE On the shortlist A SOCIAL enterprise offering a vital lifeline to businesses across West and North Yorkshire has been nominated for a national business award for its impact on the community. The Business Enterprise Fund, headed by Brighouse-based Stephen Waud, has made the shortlist of the national Citi Microentrepreneurship Awards in the Impact category.
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Reserved seating SCISSETT-based Seatable UK, which supplies furniture to the education sector has been recognised for achieving excellence in health and safety.
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
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Stadium contract for Balfour Beatty INFRASTRUCTURE firm Balfour Beatty has won a £154m contract to carry out the transformation of London’s Olympic Stadium into a multi-use venue. The site is due to host five matches during the Rugby World Cup in 2015 and will be the permanent home of West Ham Football Club from 2016. Last summer, Balfour was awarded the contract to convert the stadium roof and will now lead the remainder of the transformation works. The company won the contract from E20 Stadium Partnership, which is a joint venture between the London Legacy Development Corporation and Newham Council. During construction, Balfour expects to employ up to 400 people and will work with Workplace,
Newham Council’s employment service, to hire local people wherever possible. Balfour is also committed to providing apprenticeships amounting to 7% of the total workforce. Sustainable construction methods will include features of the existing facility being recycled and incorporated into the new stadium and the re-use of crushed demolition material, existing balustrades and sanitary ware. Balfour chief executive Andrew McNaughton said the stadium will provide a first-class sporting and cultural facility for many generations to come. He said: “Balfour Beatty is proud to be associated with this project.” The site will also be a new national
■ BOOST: Balfour Beatty will employ up to 400 people on the new contract
competition stadium for athletics in the UK, hosting regional and national age group championships, as well as elite international events including the 2017 IAAF World Championships.
Financial forecast
Balfour delivered a number of projects for the London Games, including the Aquatics Centre and a £150m package of roads and bridges. Balfour expects work on the new contract to begin in the coming weeks and finish in spring 2016 – after which the stadium will become home to Premier League club West Ham United. The Hammers, who currently play their home games at Upton Park, secured a 99-year lease on the stadium following a protracted legal battle and rival bids from Tottenham Hotspur and Leyton Orient. Baflour, which is listed on the FTSE 250, posted a pre-tax loss of £6m for the first half of 2013 – following two profit warnings. That compares with profits of £92m the previous year.
Festive boost for music shops
Co-op Bank faces probe
A MUSICAL instrument retailer with a shop in Huddersfield reported best-ever festive trading figures. Dawsons Music Ltd, which traces its roots back 116 years and has a town centre store at Market Street, enjoyed the strongest ever November and December in its history. The Warrington-based group, which has 12 stores in the UK along with internet mail order and education divisions, also broke its previous records for weekly and individual day sales, while its web division continued to demonstrate significant growth. Sales in November and December were 20% up on the same period in 2012, with the company selling more than 1,000 pianos, more than 1,000 guitars each week and more
THE Co-operative Bank is to face an enforcement investigation by the Bank of England’s Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA). The regulator said the probe would “consider the role of former senior managers” at the lender, which underwent a rescue last year after a £1.5bn black hole was discovered in its finances. The shortfall was widely attributed to problems arising from the takeover of the Britannia Building Society and the failed bid to acquire more than 600 branches from Lloyds. Questions about the management of the bank were also raised following drug revelations surrounding fo r m e r b a n k c h a i r m a n P a u l
than 10,000 plectrums in December alone. Online sales continues to grow and now represent a significant proportion of the overall business. Visits from mobile phones and tablets doubled over the Christmas period – accounting for almost half of all online traffic. Managing director Mark Taylor said: “These fantastic results prove that the British appetite for learning and playing music is higher than ever. “We're now looking forward to further growth and the realisation of some exciting plans in 2014 as we continue to expand our store portfolio.” Dawsons Music Ltd was established in Warrington in 1898.
Flowers.The Financial Conduct Authority said it was also undertaking enforcement investigations into the bank, looking at “decisions and events up to June 2013’’. The PRA said no further details of its probe would be published until it had reached its conclusions. A separate review announced by Chancellor George Osborne will not begin “until it is clear that it will not prejudice any actions that the regulators may take”. The PRA indicated it would co-ordinate the timings of the two probes with the Treasury. It is the latest round of scrutiny to be faced by the bank and the wider Co-op group and the first formal confirmation of official regulatory probes.
FURTHER major reform of the banking sector will be one of the key regulatory themes of 2014, according to business advisory firm Deloitte. The Deloitte Centre for Regulatory Strategy has identified the top 10 regulatory changes that will affect banks, insurers and investment managers this year. They are: restructuring the financial system, capital and liquidity. wholesale conduct risk, banking union, operational risk, putting customers first through better conduct and culture, individual accountability, competition, managing regulatory change in an extraterritorial world. Steve Williams, a partner for Deloitte in Yorkshire, said banks faced a “multitude of new regulations”. He said: “Six years have passed since the start of the financial crisis. Banks, insurers and other financial services companies are having to deal with a fundamental overhaul of regulation and supervisory approaches – but the sobering fact is that the job is by no means done. “2014 will be a busy year. Banks will need to implement the new capital and liquidity framework, and the European Central Bank will be intent on establishing a new European supervisory regime. “Closer to home, conduct risk in both the wholesale and retail sector will remain at the top of the agenda.”
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £54.53 -0.14 Gannett 1787.80 -14.93 Hess Corp £48.41 -0.50 Microsoft £22.10 -0.38 Motors Liquidation 45.69 Wal-Mart Stores £47.55 -0.37 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Avon Rbbr 5921/2 +8 BAE Systems 4315/8 -5/8 Rolls-Royce 1289 +18 AIM Brady Plc 74 +1 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 379 +43/4 BANKS Barclays 2771/2 +45/8 HSBC 660 +35/8 Lloyds Banking Gp 801/8 +3/8 Ryl Scotland 3441/4 +1 1 Stan Chart 1333 /2 -51/2 BEVERAGES Diageo 1977 -91/2 SABMiller £301/4 -1/4 CHEMICALS Croda £241/2 -1/8 Elementis 98 2691/4 -41/8 3 Johnsn Mat £32 /4 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2931/2 +33/8 Costain 284 +63/4 ELECTRICITY
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Bwin.Party Digital 125 Carnival £247/8 Compass Grp 9621/2 easyJet 1597 Enterprise Inns 1505/8 FirstGroup 1303/8 Go-Ahead Gp 1839 Greene King 872 Intercontl Htls 1989 Intl Cons Airl 414 Ladbrokes 1763/4 Mitchells & Butlers 4421/4 Natl Express 285 Rank Org 1435/8 Stagecoach Group 3731/4 TUI Travel 4151/4 Whitbread £377/8
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
profile
Third time lucky for Eric! IT’S been a busy festive season and Lindley has proved the for chef and restaurateur Eric perfect location. Paxman – but then, that’s just “We are in a great spot,” he how he likes things! says. “I don’t think we could “I can’t switch off,” he admits. have picked a better location. It’s “It’s my livelihood and I end up a busy community and has easy thinking about the business 24 access to the motorway.” hours a day! But I like to have Eric says the key to success things just right.” for any business is to get the Having his own restaurant has product right. been a lifelong dream for the He says: “I had run a busy award-winning chef, so it’s restaurant before, so I had a understandable that he’s pretty good idea of how things determined to make a success are supposed to run! of it. “But you only learn by And realising his ambition experience and this is a very hasn’t been easy. different establishment to where Eric’s Restaurant opened its I worked before. The clientele doors at Lidget Street, Lindley, in are also different. November, 2010. The premises “I developed a menu based on had already served as a my own experiences. I’m restaurant several times over, but Huddersfield born and bred, so I the previous occupant had left know what people in and Eric decided the building Huddersfield like. I use local needed a whole new look. produce, which people also “I had been looking for appreciate – but I do things with suitable premises for about two a twist!” years,” says Eric. Eric certainly seems to be “I looked at well over 100 doing the right things. Since it properties and I had considered opened, Eric’s has received taking the site in Lindley on two previous occasions. The second time I was beaten to it. But it’s been third time lucky. I think it must have been fate.” He says: “We stripped the building right back to its bare shell and created an inviting space. “We opened up the downstairs area and upstairs we turned what looked like a house into a restaurant. “A friend of mine who is an interior designer helped create the look, but I also had a lot of input myself. We turned it into something that’s quite different to anywhere else.” Says Eric: “We also made sure we got the branding right. I brought a marketing company on board to make everything professional. “If I’m going to do something, it’s either all or nothing!” Having put his own stamp on ■ TABLE MANNERS: Eric things, Eric says business at the Paxman, chef and owner of Eric's restaurant has been “fantastic” Restaurant in Lindley
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Eric Paxman Role: Owner Age: 34 Family: Partner Michael Holidays: I’ve been to New York and Rio as well as Europe Car: BMW First job: Comis chef at Bradley’s during my training at Huddersfield Technical College Best thing about job: Seeing happy customers Worst thing about job: Paperwork – I hate sitting at a desk Business tip: You have to be committed to the job and you have to give it your all various accolades and awards and is currently the North East's Regional Restaurant of the Year as voted for by readers of the Good Food Guide. The restaurant has also made its debut appearance in the renowned Michelin Guide – while the venue was judged New Business of the Year in the 2011 Examiner Business Awards. Even as a pupil at Rishworth School where his strong subjects included science, art and design, geography and English – cookery was his forte. Eric trained as a chef at Huddersfield Technical College, where he gained a distinction – and now counts some of his ex-lecturers among his regular customers. At the age of 18, he set out to work in London at Marco Pierre White’s famed L’escargot. Eric’s time there allowed him to develop his craft, learning from Marco’s fine and classical style, although he was working well over 100 hours a week. After four years putting time in as head chef for a local restaurant, Eric travelled the world, gaining further experience from working in different kitchens. In Sydney, Australia, he worked under Bill Grainger for his three restaurants. Bill, familiar to viewers of BBC 1’s Saturday Kitchen, has been a huge influence on Eric and his restaurant. “Working overseas broadens your horizons and life experience,” says Eric. “The beauty of my industry it that you can take it anywhere in the world.” Returning to the UK after three years, Eric took up a position as restaurant general manager before embarking on being his own boss. Eric’s Restaurant has also been expanded – with Eric converting the former greengrocer’s shop next door into a relaxing bar area. And
Eric says: “It has grown ever since. “We have a three or four weeks’ waiting list every weekend and we have also started outside catering, which is going very well. We are already booked for 20 weddings next year. “I would like to add another restaurant somewhere, but I have seen it happen so many times where a business expands and things start to go wrong. I wouldn’t like that to happen here. Having my name on the door is what matters and the customers like to see me.” When Eric does got time away from the kitchen and the tables, he values the time spent with his partner, Michael, whom he describes as “my rock and my best friend”. And he adds: “I love eating out and when I do get the chance, I like to travel.” Eric has seen the tourist sights of New York and Rio, but rates San Sebastian in Spain as his favourite get-away spot. “The food there is fabulous,” he says. “And it has the best beach I’ve ever seen.”
Eric’s Restaurant Work: Restaurant and outside catering Site: Lindley Phone: 01484 646416 Email: eric@erics restaurant.co.uk Website: www.erics restaurant.co.uk
HENRYK ZIENTEK
Who will be the next Business of the Month? If you are proud of what your business has achieved; why not tell us about your success story and you could be a winner of our prestigious award. For further details please contact: Ian Greenwood, Eaton Smith Solicitors, 14 High Street, Huddersfield HD1 2HA T: 01484 821389 E: iangreenwood@eatonsmith.co.uk Business Of The Month Awards - Rewarding Success Since 1995
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KIRKLEES BUSIN
January proves to be a taxing time! Good times. Bad times. Whatever financial problems you are experiencing in your business, we can help.
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THE BUSINESS BATTLEAXE Amanda Vigar
HE January bookkeeping T blues are looming – as small business owners across the UK
are getting their books in order to submit tax returns by January 31. The penalties for late submission and payment are severe, with a fine of £100 levied for being just one day late. Don’t wait until the last moment to submit as well, as the Government Gateway may crumble under the pressure and you may be left fighting against the clock – and lose. Try to make the practice of “keeping good books” your New Year’s resolution and follow these simple steps to take the pain away: Get a head start with your accounts. HMRC states: “You must keep records of all your business transactions.” Getting into the habit of keeping good bookkeeping records is essential to the smooth running of every business, no matter how big or small. It’ll
amaze you to hear how many people have not budgeted for their annual tax payment. Don’t let your tax obligations take you by surprise, but instead budget for the “worst” (or best, as you’ll be operating a more successful business!) case scenario. Do everything you can to take the surprise out of tax planning. Let your accountant and accounting software do the hard work for you. As well as allocating time each week to review and update the books, small business owners should set time aside each week to go through the books and ensure that their accountant is kept in the loop, particularly about any unexpected changes in the business’s fortunes in order to avoid any surprises when tax returns need to be submitted. You still have time to make this January’s deadline, so here’s what you need to know: You have already missed the October 31 deadline for submitting your tax return by post;
you must instead submit your tax return online by January 31, 2014. The penalties for late returns are pretty steep and the longer you delay, the more you’ll have to pay – one day late, a fixed penalty of £100. This applies even if you have no tax to pay or have paid the tax you owe. Three months late, £10 for each following day – up to 90 days, maximum £900. This is as well as the fixed penalty above. Six months late, £300 or 5% of the tax due, whichever is the higher. This is as well as the penalties above. Twelve months late, £300 or 5% of the tax due, whichever is the higher. In serious cases you may be asked to pay up to 100% of the tax due instead. These are as well as the penalties above. The last thing anyone would want is to be burning the midnight oil in a frantic rush to get a tax return submitted by the deadline. So, speak to your accountant or bookkeeper to find out how you can help make January a less taxing time.
Amanda Vigar is managing partner at Holmfirth-based accountants V&A Bell Brown LLP
Firm retains winning ways A CHAIN of opticians practices is celebrating a hat trick of awards in – after having been announced as the winner of a prestigious national award in recognition of its services to optics. The Valli Group picked up the Company of the Year title during the Association of Optometrists annual awards ceremony in Birmingham. The award recognises a company which has striven to improve optical standards, drive forward technology and raise awareness of the importance of optics to a wider audience. Set up by Moin Valli and his wife Rachel in 2005, the company started life as a chain of three optical practices with eight staff, and in eight years has more than doubled in size to include eight businesses – six of which are optical practices – and 25 ■ IN FOCUS: Moin Valli and his team with the BBC's Naga employees. Munchetty.(centre) at the awards They own the Valli Opticians practices in Lockwood, Honley, Meltham and Mytholmroyd, alongside disabled patients, and Valli Corporate and something we are very proud of, but to be voted the winner is the icing Eye Care, which specialises in SD Haigh Opticians in Almondbury providing bespoke eye care services on the cake.” and Mamtora Opticians in Hebden Mr Valli is a former Young Business for medium to large companies. Bridge. Person of the Year in the Examiner Mr Valli said: “Winning this They also expanded further this accolade is a tremendous honour. To Business Awards. Last April, Valli year to include two other optical Group won the business excellence businesses – Valli Home Eye Care, a be shortlisted for such a prestigious, national award was great recognition category in the Optician Awards. domiciliary service for elderly and
Orchard growth
WASTE management fir Orchard Environmental has revealed plans to expand its premises and boost the size of its sales team in 2014. The Elland-base firm, part of the recruit two new quarter of the ye appointments ex 12 months in bo sales. Group managing Henderson (pict investment in th infrastructure to was already und “Building work h House to create for the environm space, a separat state-of-the-art I systems,” he sa Mr Henderson s Environmental h place a number enhance custom the installation o management so “Waste reporting the software and can manage the effectively and d recycling and wa he said. “It will also prov those managing similar complian assisting with on monitoring and “In the autumn, waste vehicle on out emergency c in the West York regular supplier scheduled. The Orchard Gro people and has across the UK, i Glasgow, Bristol Mr Henderson s to have an envir at the head offic focusing on was recycling servic area extending f of activity within Lancashire and make inroads ac UK.
Energy
ENERGY issues free event in Yor Manufacturing b Company of Cut stage the semina 10.30am on Febr Hall in Sheffield. Delegates will be views on issues cost of energy, e and energy capa supply. To book, email a
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Firms enter 2014 in optimistic mood KIRKLEES businesses are entering the new year in positive mood, a survey revealed today. The latest quarterly survey by the Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce indicated continued confidence among member firms across Kirklees, Calderdale and Wakefield as domestic sales remained steady and sales to overseas markets grow. Companies also reported buoyant expectations for turnover and profitability in the coming year – but expressed concerns about access to finance and taxation as well as uncertainty about the wider economic environment. Among key findings, respondents reported improved prospects for recruitment and said pricing pressure had eased. But investment stalled during the fourth quarter of 2013 as cash flow problems forced firms to put plans for spending on training and capital projects on hold. Steven Leigh, chamber head of policy, said: “As we begin a new year, it is encouraging to see positivity among Mid Yorkshire companies. “It has been a difficult few years for the business community and many firms across all industries and of all sizes have had to be agile and determined in order to survive. However for many companies this determination has paid off.”
■ FINDINGS: Mid Yorkshire Chamber president David Horsman (above) and head of policy Steven Leigh (right)
But he said much now depended on Government, adding: “Whilst the substance of many recent policy announcements – national insurance tax breaks, infrastructure investment, the British Business Bank – has been positive, there has been too much equivocation on issues of real significance. “This has particularly been the case with politically-sensitive areas, such as membership of the European Union, where divisions both between Coalition
partners and within parties have been evident. “On such a serious issue, which has a significant impact on investment decisions for UK companies, as well as trading decisions for overseas partners, more certainty is vital. “Political posturing on this issue, and on the future of our airports and railways, creates a climate of uncertainty. “It is our sincere hope that during 2014, and in the lead-up to the 2015
General Election, there will not be further exaggerated political posturing on these issues.” Mr Leigh also called for a longer term solution to the issue of business rates, saying: “This is a counter-intuitive levy which is having serious continuing effects on small businesses and on our high streets. “Government should give consideration to a full review of the ongoing fairness and relevance of the this tax in view of new factors, such as the increase in internet trading, if we are to prevent our town centres from becoming even more adversely affected.” Chamber president David Horsman said: “Businesses in the Yorkshire and Humber region had another good quarter, according to our latest survey. “All the key balance figures indicate healthy growth for both manufacturing and service firms, particularly in export markets.” But he said: “The economy is still not in as strong a position as we would like. If the recovery is to be sustainable in the longer term, we need to see many more pro-business policies from the government. “Business rates, poor infrastructure and difficulty accessing finance are just some of the issues that continue to hold businesses back and require serious consideration from policy-makers.”
Social media proves a mixed blessing MORE than a third of bosses in Yorkshire do not monitor or restrict access to social media at work, despite one in 10 admitting that they are concerned that it is being abused. The figures come from the latest Close Brothers Business Barometer, a quarterly survey that gauges the opinion of SME owners across the UK on a range of issues. It revealed that over two-thirds of the region’s workers are permitted to use social networks during business hours, with almost two-fifths allowed to access social sites for personal use. Lee Hayes (pictured), regional sales director of Close Brothers Invoice
Finance in Yorkshire, said: “Social media can be a mixed blessing – used well it can benefit your business enormously. However, if used inappropriately, the consequences can be severe. “The misuse of social media can lead to a range of problems in the workplace as what employees say or do in ‘private’ can have a lasting effect on the company’s online reputation. “That is why it is vital that local firms have a carefully considered social media policy in place; particularly during the festive season when staff may be tempted to post comments or photographs from Christmas nights out that are not in line with company policy.”
Mr Hayes added: “However, while business owners need to be aware of the impact that social media can have on their business, they should also note that there are many benefits of social networking. “In fact, a recent study by Microsoft revealed that nearly half of employees surveyed felt that their productivity has been increased through the use of social tools. “It’s clear that social media is here to stay and so firms in the region need to find ways to make it work for their business, which includes ensuring they have appropriate policies in place to deal with any issues as they arise.”
‘Economic uncertainty now the norm’ EMERGING markets and investment are set to drive manufacturing growth in 2014, according to a survey. But the improved outlook masks the fact that “economic uncertainty” is the new norm, said the study by manufacturing employers’ group EEF and Aldermore Bank. Manufacturing employers were more optimistic about prospects for 2014 compared with their view of 2013 with projected growth of 2.7% – the
second-best since 1994. Firms expected a “significant” pick up in investment. They said the outlook for the eurozone had improved, but stressed that emerging markets remained key to export success. Two-fifths of companies said they plan to invest moderately in the UK, with a further fifth saying their investment would be significant. Overseas, a third of large firms plan to invest compared to a fifth of small and
medium-sized enterprises. However, the extent of the difficult economic conditions of the last few years is emphasised by the majority of companies viewing “economic uncertainty” as the new norm, with instability overseas and rising input costs, especially energy, being the biggest risks. Andy Tuscher, EEF northern regional director, said: “Manufacturers are telling us they expect to make a greater
contribution to growth, investment and jobs this year. “Innovation, energy and diversifying into new supply chain remain key opportunities, but the UK and the eurozone are also looking better. “However, global uncertainty and rising energy costs pose significant risks and the challenge for industry and government this year will be to get industry’s investment plans over the line.”
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
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Construction sector leads way on training
APPRENTICESHIPS are taking Kirklees employees all the way to the top – with the construction sector leading the way. That’s according to new research, which finds that 26% of employers in Yorkshire currently have former apprentices working in board level positions. This compares to 19% of employers nationally. The findings – released to launch the third annual City & Guilds Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers list – highlight the commitment of Huddersfield employers to promoting former apprentices through the ranks. The research shows that 40% of all employers in Yorkshire questioned said apprentices go onto various
management positions in their company. That’s the second-highest figure among UK regions alongside the East Midlands. Nationally, an apprentice’s chance of becoming a director is greatest in the construction industry, with 47% of businesses in this sector employing former apprentices in board level positions. This is followed by manufacturing and engineering (43%), agriculture (33%) and energy and power (33%). The study was complemented by research among some of the companies featured in this year’s City & Guilds Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers list. Among those employers, 89% said that if they were starting out in their
career now they would opt to do an apprenticeship and that on average, 30% of their companies’ senior management positions are filled by former apprentices. Some 51% said the average time for an apprentice to reach a management position in their firm was five years or less. This compares to 33% saying the same for non-apprentices. The key skills which former apprentices bring to managerial positions were cited as knowledge of the business (98%), on-the-job experience (95%) and industry specific skills (93%). Matthew Hancock, Skills and Enterprise Minister, said: “Nearly every employer that takes on an
apprentice reports benefits to their business and the calibre of the companies included in this year’s Top 100 list just goes to show the breadth of employers who are now embracing apprenticeships. “Going to university or choosing an apprenticeship needs to become the new norm for school and college leavers. These figures support this aim and show that apprentices are able to succeed in some of the biggest businesses in the UK.” Chris Jones, chief executive and director-general of City and Guilds, said: “Apprenticeships provide employers with the workforce of the future. Through apprenticeships, employers gain the talented, skilled individuals they need.”
Firm in £2m expansion plans A MAJOR capital investment programme is under way at construction products firm Naylor Industries plc. More than £2m has been approved for investment in the New Year in an additional kiln for the production of specialist clay drainage pipe – which is set to help create 30 jobs. The company, formed in 1890, employs about 350 people – many of them drawn from the Kirklees area . It operates across five sites and manufactures a range of clay, plastic and concrete products for construction, building and civil engineering applications. The head office and main manufacturing site at Cawthorne will see a significant boost to its production capacity next year. Naylor’s products are highly regarded overseas with its strong British engineering pedigree. Opportunities to expand its
export sales are driving the expansion programme as well as a growing confidence in the UK construction and building industry recovery. The company has secured support from the Government’s Regional Growth Fund, which is contributing to the latest investment. Earlier this year, Naylor made The Times/HSBC International Track 200 – a list of the top UK Companies for export growth – and last month won the Insider Made in Yorkshire Exporter of the Year award. Chief operating officer Bridie Warner-Adsetts said: “We are delighted to be investing in growth and expanding our business due mainly to the fantastic reception our products are receiving overseas. “We look forward to creating more apprenticeships and skilled job opportunities as a result of this expansion”. Chief executive Edward Naylor said: “Following on from
Clay industry stalwart retires A MEMBER of a remarkable clay industry “dynasty” has retired after clocking up 40 years in the ceramics industry. Dr David Hoyland, laboratory technician at Cawthorne-based Naylor Drainage Ltd, was presented with a 40-year service medal by Naylor directors Edward Naylor and Bridie Warner-Adsetts on behalf of the Institute of Clayworkers. David’s father and two uncles also had long service in the clay industry – with the four family members’ combined service amounting to an extraordinary 180 years. ■ LAB WORK: Dr David Hoyland C(entre) with )from left) colleagues Neil Reading, Mark Booth, Edward Naylor, Bridie Warner-Adsetts, Kirsty Ibbotson and Sarah Robinson
■ ON TRACK: Edward Naylor (left), chief executive officer at Naylor Industries, with chief operating officer Bridie Warner-Adsetts and non-executive chairman David Fletcher at the International Track 200 awards very trying times in the construction industry, the business has a new found optimism and confidence.
Naylor have over 120 years of proud manufacturing history in the UK and we are very much looking forward to the future.”
■ GROWTH: Chris Jones, chief executive of City and Guilds
Landlords upbeat over year ahead LANDLORDS are looking to 2014 with an increasing sense of optimism for the wider buy-to-let market and the performance of their rental portfolios, according to a report. The study covering the fourth quarter by specialist buy-to-let lender Paragon Mortgages found that 38% of 200 landlords polled were feeling optimistic about the prospects for the property portfolios. Landlords’ optimism hit an all-time high during the second half of 2013 – with those surveyed feeling positive about the value of their property investments. A third of landlords expect an increase in net value in 2014. This has also been an upward trend – having dipped to an all-time low between 2008/2009 and remaining relatively flat through 2010 to 2012. Just over a fifth of landlords plan to invest in further buy-to-let property in the first quarter of 2014. Of those landlords looking to buy, large-scale landlords were more likely to expect to purchase property (25%) than small-scale landlords (8%). John Heron, director of mortgages at Paragon, said: “2013 has been a good year for buy-to-let and landlords certainly seem to be more active in the market. “We have seen a steady increase in the levels of optimism among our landlord customers, and this looks set to stay in the New Year. “We expect buy-to-let lending market wide in 2013 to be in the region of £20bn and whilst this would represent a material level of growth over 2012 we should keep things in perspective. “This only takes us back to the level of buy-to-let lending that we had 10 years ago and over that period the private rented sector has increased by 80%. “Any talk of boom conditions in the buy-to-let market would appear to be premature indeed.”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
Tackling a need for more houses
N April, 2013, the DepartIandment for Communities Local Government
decided to consult on a number of reforms to the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). T h e C I L e n abl e s l o c a l authorities to raise funds from developers undertaking building projects to pay for infrastructure works to support development. The amount of the levy has often been a point of contention between developers and local authorities and any changes to CIL are closely monitored. The response to the consultation published in April, 2013, has now been published and includes a number of important reforms and some good news for developers as local authorities will be required to strike an appropriate balance between the funding of infrastructure from the levy and the potential effects of the levy on the economic viability of development. This “Evidence Based Test”
INFORMED DEVELOPMENT
Martin Thompson will place a greater onus on the local Authorities to prepare and present locally applicable viability evidence. Those charged with the responsibility of considering this evidence will need to be sufficiently skilled in viability issues to ensure that the test is implemented effectively. This is complemented by allowing authorities to set differential rates by reference to the proposed size of development, or the proposed number of units or dwellings and extending the provisions for phasing CIL payments to all types of planning permission, to deal fairly with more complex developments. Allowing payment in kind provides for developers to pay
EIGHT of the 11 candidates who sat the associate entry to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors exam in Yorkshire and Humber have passed first time around – a first time pass rate of 73%. Nationally, 90 of the more than 130 candidates who sat the associate entry exam passed – a rate of 67%, according to the RICS. The candidates came from a variety of backgrounds and are among the increasing number of people opting to gain professional status without attending university. Associate membership to the RICS enables individuals to gain a professional qualification in property or the built environment without having to go university. With the cost of a degree becoming higher and higher, the RICS hopes this pathway will improve access to the surveying profession. Jennifer Welch, RICS director for the north and Midlands, said: “With the jobs market remaining extremely competitive and the worries over the cost of university now a real concern for many young people, it is critical that the professions open their doors to entry-level candidates.” Associate members are allowed to use the letters “RICS” after their name – the first step to “MRICS” or full chartered status.
CIL via provision of on-site and/or off-site infrastructure is a welcome addition and may quicken some developments to market. The final notable point is that the timetable for transition to a CIL charging regime will be extended by 12 months. If a CIL regime is not adopted then the current Section 106 system will continue to April 2015. As ever, there are points in the small print and the most notable is that comments on ap p e a l s w i l l h av e t o b e “received” rather than “sent” within 14 days, although there may be some discretion to extend that period. Those building for themselves will be entitled to a relief
from CIL which could save thousands of pounds and may encourage more people to self build. Planning Minister Nick Boles has said: “We urgently need to build more homes and these changes to the levy will help increase housing supply and help business grow by making the system more flexible and fairer.” The reforms are intended to come into effect early this year with the aim to improve the operation of the CIL. The big questions will be whether these are the last reforms before the election and which local authorities will become more development friendly.
Martin Thompson, is a partner in Commercial Property at Armitage Sykes in Huddersfield
Winning through with flying colours FIFTEEN graduates from property agency DTZ graduates have passed their Assessment of Professional Competence exams after completing the company’s training scheme. The successful completion of the exams means they are now qualified chartered surveyors and members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. The successful graduates include Jacques Esterhuizen, based in DTZ’s industrial agency team in Leeds. The APC is the practical training which, when combined with academic qualification, leads to membership of the RICS. The trainees at DTZ are
placed on the two-year graduate scheme when they join the company which gives them specialised training and regular appraisals with agreed action points in preparation for the APC exams. Tim Cameron-Jones, head of DTZ’s northern region said: “Each candidate has worked extremely hard to achieve this accreditation. This success highlights the importance we place on professional development at DTZ. “RICS status is the mark of property professionalism and this qualification is an important step in the career progression of each of the candidates.”
■ SUCCESS: Jacques Esterhuizen, who is based in DTZ’s industrial agency team in West Yorkshire
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Furniture supplier is safety champion A FIRM supplying furniture to the education sector has been recognised for achieving excellence in health and safety. Seatable UK Ltd, based in Scissett,has been awarded accreditation from Safecontractor, a leading accreditation scheme which recognises very high standards in health and safety management among UK contractors. Seatable, which employs 14 people and has turnover of £2m, has included major players such as Claas International and Shelley Academy among its clients. The company’s application for safecontractor accreditation was driven by the need for a uniform standard across the business. Director Jan Wright said: “Health and safety is without question one of the key fundamental areas in the business that is highly regarded and respected by all. “This – coupled with the company’s ISO:9001 2008 – is testament that as a company we view, what we do and how we do it with extreme importance and compassion for both our employees and our customers.” The firm, which is already an Investor in People, said Safecontractor accreditation would enhance its ability to attract new contracts – while its commitment to safety would be viewed positively by its insurers when the company liability policy is up for renewal. Safecontractor applies to most sectors, although it is particularly relevant to food manufacture, property, facilities management, retail and leisure sectors, all of which are big users of contracted services. John Kinge, technical director of Safecontractor, said: “Major organisations simply cannot afford to run the risk of employing contractors who are not able to prove that they have sound health and safety policies in place. “More companies need to understand the importance of adopting good risk management in the way that Seatable has done. The firm’s high standard has set an example which hopefully will be followed by other companies within the sector.” More than 170 major nationwide businesses have signed up to use the scheme when selecting contractors for services such as building, cleaning, maintenance, refurbishment or electrical and mechanical work.
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Stephen Branch
Northgate Vehicle Hire NORTHGATE Vehicle Hire, which has a site in Huddersfield, has appointed Stephen Branch as UK operations director as the company plans for further growth. Mr Branch (pictured) takes responsibility for Northgate’s UK operational strategy across its network of 67 branches and 55,000 vehicles and is the newest addition to the UK management team. He previously worked as regional operations manager for Northgate with responsibility for the financial and operational performance of the branch network in the North. Within his new role, he will also be responsible for the rental and workshop areas of the company, as well as the company’s customer support centre in Darlington. Mr Branch said: “Having worked with Northgate for a number of years I am delighted to be afforded this opportunity to complement the existing operational strategy and drive it forward. “2014 is set to be a busy year, with plans already in place to expand the company’s existing network of 67 branches to 90 in the next two to three years. Effective operation is key to its success, so it’s a very exciting time to be appointed as UK operations director.” Bob Contreras, Northgate chief executive, said: “Stephen already has a proven track record and his leadership in the operations team and improvements achieved means this appointment is well deserved. “There have been many changes throughout the company in recent years, with a particular focus on investment in our systems, people and infrastructure. Stephen’s appointment complements this activity and ensures our continued focus on the delivery of quality customer service as we grow our business.” Northgate has sites across 67 locations in the UK, with its head office in Darlington and northern branches at Red Doles Lane in Huddersfield and at Leeds, Sheffield, Wakefield, Doncaster, Scunthorpe, Grimsby and Hull.
Movers and shakers
Making an impact A SOCIAL enterprise offering a vital lifeline to businesses across West and North Yorkshire has been nominated for a national business award for its impact on the community. The Business Enterprise Fund, headed by Brighouse-based Stephen Waud, has made the shortlist of the national Citi Microentrepreneurship Awards in the Impact category. The awards, run in partnership with the Community Development Finance Association, celebrate excellence in community finance. They will be presented at a ceremony on February12 in Bristol. Mr Waud said being shortlisted topped off a very successful year for BEF after an expansion, recruitment drive and a further £10m investment. “We’re delighted to be shortlisted at the inaugural UK Citi Microentrepreneurship Awards which recognise the excellent work of community development finance institutions in changing lives and communities,” he said. ■ REFLECTING ON SUCCESS: Stephen Waud, of the Business Enterprise Fund “Our expansion into great new offices in Leeds and the creation of new jobs in loans this year and we want to grow that towards building even more confidence in 2013 has turned heads and we are now in 2014 and lend £6m to boost our offering and will show any SME doing seen as a key player in supporting business across Yorkshire that there are businesses with the support they need.” businesses get on their feet. “We facilitated almost £3m worth of Mr Waud said: “The shortlist will go alternatives to finance.”
New look for the new year
Timothy Hymas
Close Brothers Asset Finance CLOSE Brothers Asset Finance, part of the Close Brothers Group, has appointed Timothy Hymas as area sales manager at its manufacturing division in Yorkshire. Mr Hymas worked for Cromwell, the largest British-owned industrial distributor, for more than 20 years, with the last 10 years spent in the role of branch sales manager. He will now be responsible for generating new business and delivering bespoke asset finance solutions to the manufacturing sector. Mr Hymas said: “I am excited to be entering this new chapter in my career and I am pleased that I have joined an experienced and ambitious team, with a clear focus on supporting manufacturing in North Yorkshire. “Manufacturers are experiencing challenges on a number of fronts – issues such as the rising cost of raw materials, fuel costs and pressure to meet green targets are all squeezing profit margins. I believe we have a number of solutions that will not only ease these financial burdens, but actually enable companies to invest and expand too.” Steve Gee, managing director of the manufacturing division at Close Brothers Asset Finance, said: “I believe Timothy’s existing knowledge and contacts in this field will be a real asset both to our team and to businesses in the sector who are seeking funding to invest in new plant, machinery and other mission critical equipment.”
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■ ON BOARD: Howarths managing director Gavin Howarth (left) welcomes new arrival Mark Worsnop to the team EMPLOYMENT law specialist Howarths has reported a strong start to 2014. The Cleckheaton-based company marks its 12th year in business this month – with business partners and husband and wife Andy and Helen Howarth announcing the appointment of their son Gavin as managing director after three years with the firm. Gavin will continue to work very closely with his father, who is chairman, and co-director Tracey Craven to expand and develop the service Howarths provides to businesses throughout Yorkshire. The company, which lists Huddersfield-based SimplyBiz, Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd, The Pink Link and Walkers Windows among its clients, has also added to its services by
supporting businesses in the health and safety sector with the appointment of Mark Worsnop to the team. In addition, the company has undergone a rebrand from Howarths The Employment Law Specialist to start the new year as Howarths, People and Safety Management. Gavin said: “We’re really excited about the prospect of expanding our service and offering businesses further compliance support. “We’re genuinely passionate about what we do and the addition of health and safety was a natural fit to our business model. “Mark is a fantastic addition to the team and we are all very much look forward to working with him.”
Cherry Stewart
PwC ACCOUNTANCY firm PwC has appointed Cherry Stewart (pictured) to head the firm's business resilience team covering Kirklees. Her role will oversee the business resilience element of the firm’s risk team across its six northern offices, including one serving West Yorkshire. She will focus on supporting organisations across all sectors in areas such as risk management, governance and control frameworks and supply chain risk so they can develop and maintain a more resilient business. Ms Stewart joined PwC in 2002 and has more than 11 years’ experience as an internal audit specialist, performing reviews on corporate governance, risk management and fraud risk assessments. In addition to her new role, she leads the firm’s UK retail internal audit team and has previously spent two years working in the internal audit team at ASDA.
Rich Dumelle
KeyedIn Solutions A COMPANY providing Cloud-based project management software has announced a major appointment. KeyedIn Solutions, which has its UK headquarters at Cleckheaton, has appointed software sales veteran Rich Dumelle as general manager. Mr Dumelle has more than 17 years experience in the software sales industry in direct, re-seller and alliance sales channels. He previously held high ranking sales positions at Americaneagle.com and Epicor Software. “This hiring is a real coup for KeyedIn”, said Lauri Klaus, chief executive officer and founder at KeyedIn Solutions.