COLIN BARRATT Taxation too taxing?
LUKE RUDDIMAN Getting under the feet!
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Full inter view - Page 3
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Recycling regime brings big savings A TEXTILE company with sites at Meltham and Mirfield is racking up big savings through recycling. Contract furnishings specialist Camira Fabrics has teamed up with Holmfirth-based Footprint Recycling in a bid to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill and achieve savings totalling tens of thousands of pounds on the way to its target of achieving 100% recycling by 2012. S i n c e j o i n i n g fo rc e s w i t h consultancy Footprint Recycling in January last year, Camira has exceeded its first-year target for a 50% reduction in waste going to landfill by achieving an 80% cut – benefiting the business by £40,000. Waste categories including paper, cardboard and textiles are being recycling and Footprint is also looking at diverting some of the firm’s other waste types to RDF – or refuse-derived fuel – in the effort to achieve zero waste going to landfill. Robyn Brook, partner at Footprint Recycling, said: “RDF is something that is starting to become more mainstream. Waste-to-energy has been around for sometime now, but it is being more widely applied than it used to be.” Footprint has also helped change the culture among employees by setting up recycling zones for specific items of waste and “banning” wastepaper baskets at desks. Equipment has also been installed to bale some of the waste materials
on-site to generate better revenue and make the firm’s systems more efficient. Footprint has given presentations to staff and undertaken training to get the recycling message across to employees. Said Robyn: “Camira’s management team have been putting their weight behind this. Zero waste to landfill is a goal the company wants to reach as board level and everyone is working towards that. Employees also get a sense of satisfaction when they can see tangible results from recycling.” Alan Williams, operations director at Camira fFbrics said: “The waste management expertise and enthusiasm of the Footprint team has enabled us to exceed our 2011 goal of recycling 50% of our waste with significant cost benefits to the business. “Sustainability is very important to Camira and this partnership gives us the opportunity of realising one of our key environmental goals of reducing waste to landfill to 0% by 2013.” Camira has also made environmental improvement central to its recently-launched £2m dyehouse at Park Valley Mills, Lockwood. The joint venture with Holmfirth Dyers has resulted in a state-of-the-art dyeing facility boasting “green” credentials which include warm air drying, 100% dye exhaustion – meaning that clean water is discharged to the sewer after use – and an
The new MAS, which is funded by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, is expected to help generate £1.5bn in economic growth, help create 23,000 jobs and safeguard a further 50,000 jobs. MAS has worked with thousands of manufacturers across the country helping them to improve productivity and competitiveness. The new-look MAS offers an even
Root and branch BUSINESSES are set to go green with a new initiative from the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. The chamber has teamed up with member firm Orchard Energy, based in Elland, to launch an energy and environmental efficiency scheme aimed at encouraging companies to reduce their carbon footprint. The partnership will see a tree planted for every business that signs up to the scheme.
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■ GREEN GAINS: Clare Verity, left, and Robyn Brook of Footprint Recycling, with Camira Fabrics operations director Alan Williams
energy-efficient hot water boiler backed by hot water recovery for re-use in subsequent dye batches. Footprint partners Robyn Brook and Clare Verity – the UK’s only all-female company working in the sector – have worked with a number of organisations, including Huddersfield’s Kingsgate shopping centre. Clare said: “We see ourselves as environmental management consultants because we are helping companies that are at the grassroots to take that first step to recycling. People think it involves a lot of time and effort, but once things are organised it becomes straightforward.
“The biggest issue is that companies have to change how they deal with waste – and change is what people are frightened of. But with a bit of reorganisation and commitment, businesses can save time, make more money and reduce costs by recycling.” Clare said: “Landfill charges are only going to go up and the only answer is to look at reducing waste. “Our customers are also aware that their clients want to know what they do with their waste. Companies with a sense of corporate responsibility want to deal with like-minded businesses.”
New look for Manufacturing Advisory Service KIRKLEES firms are set to benefit from a new-look Manufacturing Advisory Service. An improved MAS was launched across Yorkshire at the premises of Leeds-based pre-press inkjet specialist Agfa Graphics. The new-look service is available to all manufacturers across England and is delivered by the Manufacturing Advisory Consortium.
INSIDE
wider range of support and hands-on advice including how to develop marketing and sales plans; establish innovative new products, services and design and develop a growth strategy. It can also help to supply other vital ingredients for manufacturing success, such as putting the right financial measures and IT solutions in place; delivering in-house training and support and providing support
towards the cost of tooling for new product development. The launch event also marked the unveiling of the MAS Works Awards aimed at promoting the great work that manufacturing is doing around the country. Firms recognised in the awards included Huddersfield’s ABG Ltd, Disposables UK, and Novaglaze Ltd as well as Dewsbury-based Gee Graphite.
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Company reward A COMPANY has been recognised for its hard work and commitment to Huddersfield. Bradley-based Safety Management & Monitoring Services received the Business of the Month Award from Huddersfield law firm Eaton Smith, which runs the competition in conjunction with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Government export support arm UKTI .
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
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Award is safe and sound for SM&MS
A COMPANY has been recognised for its hard work and commitment to Huddersfield. Bradley-based Safety Management & Monitoring Services received the Business of the Month Award from Huddersfield law firm Eaton Smith, which runs the competition in conjunction with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Government export support arm UKTI. SM&MS, a health and safety and employment law consultancy formed in 1994, has grown by 20% during the past 10 years, taking its turnover to £3.5m. As well as working for major names like Costcutter, Kwik Fit, Spar and Harvey Nichols, it also provides workplace compliance services for small and medium-sized firms. The judges were particularly impressed with the company’s attitude towards innovation and development and felt they deserved recognition for the cloud based compliance systems – PropertyPlus and ContractorPlus. The company’s “Simple” service was commended as offering a helping hand to those smaller companies who despair at the red tape and compliance headaches they are obliged to manage. Ian Greenwood, of Eaton Smith, said: “The company illustrated how their growth over 18 years is largely due to word of mouth and referrals based on the good service they provide. “They have stayed true to their roots and employed locally, bringing the total number of employees to 60. They are still a family-run business with a focus on nurturing which reflects in their staff retention rate. “It is a very impressive company and we are very lucky to have them in Huddersfield.”
■ HEALTHY SIGNS: Alison Palmer, centre, of Eaton Smith, presents the award to Richard Edwards (fourth right), of SM&MS Ltd and his colleagues, right, with, from left, Kathryn Shuttleworth, of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce; Jill Hague, of HSBC; Steve Haynes, of UKTI; and Chris Brown, of Brantwood Financial Planning
Richard Edwards, director of client services at SM&MS, said: “This has been a total surprise. Being recognised locally means the world to us. “Ambitions are high this year and we have plans to grow and expand working towards developing a
larger business right here in Huddersfield.” The Business of the Month Award is open to firms in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. Contact Ian Greenwood on 01484 821389 for further information.
Network members will have a ball! THE founders of a business networking group are setting out to support Huddersfield’s Kirkwood Hospice by hosting a spectacular Mid Summer Night’s Dream Ball. Ladies 4 Networking, launched in 2010, has expanded from one monthly meeting in Huddersfield to regular events taking place in towns across West Yorkshire, including Halifax, Huddersfield, Brighouse and Bradford – and is set to expand across the Yorkshire region. The hospice at Dalton provides specialist palliative care, free of charge, for tens of thousands of people in Kirklees who are living with cancer and other life threatening illnesses. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the opening of the hospice and the
start of the biggest building project since Kirkwood was built in 1987 and – with it – the launch of a £3m Capital Appeal. Marina Simioli, Huddersfield-based Travel Counsellor, who together with her sister Nada Tokos, of Tokos Solutions, runs Ladies 4 Networking, said: “The formula has been an instant success for women in business who are passionate about supporting, forming alliances with, advising and learning from others. “At each meeting, ladies bring and readily share contacts, experience, expertise and skills. “Having established such a powerful resource, it felt appropriate to create an opportunity for members to celebrate their success and collaborate to generate proceeds for a thoroughly
deserving cause. “As soon as the idea came to me, I called upon one of our members, Helen Davies, owner of Brighouse-based events company Bash, to take care of the organisation and co-ordinate everything.” The ladies-only event will take place on Saturday, June 16, at the Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top. The event will include dinner, entertainment by Huddersfield-based professional swing singer Richard Daniels, a raffle, an auction, dancing and a fun casino. For ticket details, to sponsor an element of the ball or donate an item for the auction or raffle, contact Helen on 07561 107888 or e-mail ■ CHARITY PUSH: Helen Davies, helen@your-bash.co.uk of events organising business Bash
Non-execs face greater demands ALMOST a third of non-executive directors expect to reduce the number appointments they hold to make sure they commit the amount of time to carry out their duties effectively, according to new research. The study by PricewaterhouseCoopers also showed that 58% of non-execs expect to spend a further five to 10 days a year
on their non-exec duties because of the increase in risk and regulatory requirements. Some 37% believe the greater demands placed on them have made the role of non-exec less attractive. The research suggests the impact of reviews and the introduction of the 2010 UK Corporate Governance Code that have focused on the duties of
non-execs have been a double-edged sword – creating more paperwork and regulation. Graham Ward-Thompson, northern remuneration and reward partner at PwC, said: “Following the amendments to the UK Corporate Governance Code in 2010, we’ve started to see how the changes are shaping the roles of board members
and impacting the duties of individual directors. “While the increased challenges have made the role more attractive, many feel challenged by the complexity of the business and the demands associated with the increased involvement, influence and responsibility which the new role brings.”
Page 2 Joining the Elite A COMPANY providing software packages and technical consulting services to the UK legal sector has taken a step forward. Exen Legal Solutions, based at the Media Centre in Huddersfield, has signed as an Alliance Partner with Elite, a Thomson Reuters business. The partnership gives Elite’s LawSoft clients the opportunity to tailor their solutions according to their business needs and differentiate their offerings from those of competing law firms. “The legal landscape has become increasingly competitive,” said Exen director Graham Moore. “Through this partnership we can advise and assist Elite clients in the development and management of projects that help set them apart from the competition, while achieving measurable improvements in business performance through the use of existing technology.” Exen’s services include business information implementations, systems integration, data migrations between platforms and suppliers and business process automation.
Sustained efforts KIRKLEES firms have been urged to enter a contest to find Britain’s most sustainable business. The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales has launched the ICAEW Sustainability Award. Judges will be looking at examples of policies or projects that have a positive impact on society, the environment and the economy; where an organisation has not only changed behaviour internally but is also helping to change behaviour among customers and suppliers. The competition is open to all organisations in the public and private sectors. Finalists will be announced in August and winners will be named at a gala dinner and awards ceremony on November 13 at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel. Got to www.national businessawards.co.uk for more information.
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS A YOUNG entrepreneur is forging a career with one of the UK’s fastest growing franchises. Luke Ruddiman, 21, has opened up the latest branch of disaster restoration specialists Tempest Restoration at a new 1,200sq ft unit at Herbert Brown Business Park in Milnsbridge. It’s a big step for the Edgerton man, who trained as a plumber and a gas engineer before working as a commercial catering engineer for Slaithwaite-based company Triline Contracts. But he is determined to make a success of the venture – and is already considering taking on additional staff as the business grows. “I always wanted to do something practical,” says Luke, who attended Huddersfield Grammar School and Huddersfield New College. Working at Triline proved the stepping stone to setting up his own business. “They were a lovely company to work for,” he says. “They really looked after me, but I wanted to set up something for myself.” Luke’s father, Tony – who has run a number of successful businesses himself – helped set the ball rolling. Luke had already seen how franchising provided a route into self-employment during a visit to the States. Last year, with Tony’s support, Luke decided to make a go of it. Says Luke: “We went to a franchise exhibition in Birmingham last September and looked out for something that would not be too exposed to the ups and downs of the economy. “We looked at franchising because franchises have a much better survival rate than the typical start-up business.” Now Luke has the Tempest Restoration franchise for Huddersfield, Halifax and Bradford. As well as drawing on his own experiences in plumbing and as a gas engineer, he underwent an intensive training course to learn the skills necessary to run a business offering flood, fire and water damage restoration as well as carpet, rug and upholstery cleaning. “Once you learn one trade, it is easier to branch out into other areas,” says Luke. “But you still need the proper training. I am more of a practical person than a ‘paperwork’ person and that has helped enormously.” Luke, who only began trading after Christmas, says: “There has been a good response from local businesses, including carpet manufacturers, launderettes, hotels, estate agents and lettings agents who are keen to support local suppliers.” Tempest Restoration offers a 24/7 call out service and takes on the role of helping people when they need it most – when their
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Luke makes a clean break home or business has been damaged by a fire or flood. He says: “You can end up being something of a counsellor for people who are distressed by the damage done to their homes and they become your friends because they know you are part of the solution, not the problem.” And it is a demanding and expanding market. The record freeze of December, 2010, for example, left insurers with more than 12,000 claims a day – at a cost of £38m a day and £900m in property damage claims. Tempest Restoration supplies its services to loss adjusters, building and property maintenance companies, housing association and insurance companies covering all major restoration work for domestic and commercial policyholder claims. It saves insurers money by getting on site within 24 hours for a fire and four hours for a water damage claim and is one of the first companies in the UK to adopt industry-leading claims management software, which accelerates the way damage is assessed on site – helping to reduce claims life cycles still further.
While Luke’s branch covers the Huddersfield, Halifax and Bradford areas – with the hope of expanding into other areas soon – the Tempest Restoration network has national coverage. “There are probably four major competitors in our market nationally and locally a few more,” says Luke. “While its competitors do a lot of franchising, Tempest has 20 at the moment and only plans to set up a maximum of 26, which provides plenty of scope for individual franchisees to expand. “I speak to the franchise owner, Martin King, on a daily basis to discuss how things are going. It’s good to have that contact to make sure everything’s on track and to get the latest information.” Luke says: “There is a great deal of satisfaction in helping people. When you arrive on the scene of a major flooding, people can be distressed – but to see the looks on their faces when we have gone in there and dried things out and salvaged personal belongings gives us a lot of satisfaction. Often, these are items of sentimental value – not just property that can be replaced
Luke Ruddiman
by the payment of a cheque.” Along with routine appointments to clean carpets, rugs and upholstery, he may get a call at any time of day to deal with a “disaster”. But he says: “I don’t mind the long hours and if I was still working for someone else, I would be wanting to set up for myself. I enjoyed what I was doing, but I don’t think I was stretching myself enough.” Running Tempest Restoration leaves little time for relaxation, although Luke says: “I have just taken up golf. A lot of my friends play and it is a great way to relieve stress. I play at Bradley and on the golf driving range at the Galpharm Stadium. I also enjoy ski-ing – so I made sure I got a ski-ing holiday in
before setting up the business!” But Luke’s focus is entirely on building up his business. Not only is he the youngest owner of a Tempest Restoration branch, he is already considering employing people, possibly an apprentice to help him expand the business. “We are looking to set someone on towards the end of the year to help with the carpet and rug cleaning side of the business,” says Luke. “I was lucky enough to have a job when I decided that I wanted to go on my own and set up this branch of Tempest Restoration. I want to be able to offer employment to someone else and help someone else work in this industry, which I believe has so much to offer.”
HENRYK ZIENTEK
Easy steps now for big tax savings in the future!!
Tempest Restoration Work: Flood, fire and water damage restoration; carpet, rug and upholstery cleaning Site: Milnsbridge Phone: 01484 446215 Email: luke.ruddiman @tempestrestoration .co.uk Web: www.tempest restoration.co.uk
On the board with
Entrepreneur’s relief enables individuals to reduce their tax rate from 28% to 10% when selling their business or shares in a trading company.
This relief can potentially generate a huge tax saving but in order to qualify certain conditions need to be met for the 12 months prior to disposal. These conditions are often easily met but conversely can be easily broken. Some simple tax planning now could ensure you are eligible for Entrepreneur’s Relief on your future sales.
Revell Ward Tip:
Do not wait until considering a sale, plan ahead now and take advice to ensure that your future sales will qualify – saving up to 18% of your tax bill!!
■ EQUIPMENT CHECK: Luke Ruddiman, of Tempest Restoration at Milnsbridge
Role: Owner and franchisee Age: 21 Holidays: Road trip along the east coast of America and backpacking around Thailand and the Far East Car: VW van First job: Gas and commercial catering installation engineer Best thing about job: Building something for myself and being my own boss Worst thing about job: Seeing the destruction and damage to peoples’ homes and personal belongings – so we try to save as much as we can Business tip: Customer service is everything
Lesley Sutton Tax Director
01484 538 351
theboard@revellward.co.uk Twitter@RevellWard
www.revellward.co.uk
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Distress signals still ‘significant’ THE number of businesses in reporting signs of distress remains significant – although it is below the national average, according to research by insolvency trade body R3. Figures from the organisation also show that 19% of firms in the region admit to regularly using their maximum overdraft facility, compared with 30% across the UK. However, some 35% of businesses in Yorkshire say they are experiencing reduced sales volumes, close to the national figure of 37%. Chris Wood, Yorkshire R3 committee member and partner at Cleckheaton-based Clough Corporate Solutions, said: “While businesses in the region seem to be faring better than in some parts of the country, many are still reporting signs of distress and yet we have not seen the number of corporate insolvencies we would expect. “This could be down to a number of factors, but will certainly have been influenced by a shift in creditor attitudes. “With the realisation that economic recovery is still not on the horizon, creditors – including HMRC and the banks – have been giving businesses ‘Time to Pay’ on their taxes and more breathing space to settle their debts.” Mr Wood said suppliers and investors were reluctant to support businesses perceived to be struggling, adding: “We are seeing more and more suffering, but this is not manifesting itself in business failures.”
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Pay attention to estate planning FEW years ago InheritA ance Tax was becoming a political hot-topic.
Rising property prices and healthy investment performance had meant that more and more individuals discovered they had estates tipping over the threshold at which IHT was payable. However, fast forward to present day and property prices and asset values generally continue to be suppressed, meaning IHT is perhaps not the same problem it was for many people who were on the borderline. The introduction from October 9, 2007, of the ability to transfer any “nil rate band” (currently £325,000 for tax year 2012/13) unused by a deceased spouse or civil partner to the survivor has also meant that most joint estates under £650,000 escape IHT altogether. However, estate planning is not all about Inheritance Tax and there are a number of estate planning tips that can be relevant regardless of whether or not you are caught by the IHT net. Make a Will – Ensuring you have a valid and up to date Will is the cornerstone of any estate planning. Where no Will has been made then the estate must be distributed in a particular order known as “the Intestacy rules”. These differ depending on whether the deceased lived in England and Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland and can be complex. It is also important to be aware that any existing Will you may have made will automatically be revoked on marriage or civil partnership so, even if you have previously made a Will it may no longer be valid. It is also important to review any existing Wills to take into account other changes in your circumstances. There are many things you can do through a Will such as: ● Ensure your assets, money, and property pass to whom you wish to inherit and in the way you want
FINANCIAL FOCUS Karen Wynard
● Save Inheritance Tax and care fees ● Ensure your spouse / partner always has a home ● Appoint guardians to care for your children (and provide money for their maintenance) ● Give rights of occupation to adult children who are still living at your home when you die ● Ensure an inheritance for your children in the event of your partner remarrying after your death Consider making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) – When we think of the term “estate planning” it is usually in the context of controlling what will happen to our assets when we die, but what about what will happen to our assets whilst we are still alive should we become unable to manage our own affairs? This is why making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is important – possibly even more important than your Will. An LPA is a legal document that allows you to choose persons (attorneys) you would like to make decisions on your behalf if you lack the mental capacity to make the decision yourself. There are two types of LPA. A property and financial affairs LPA allows an attorney to make decisions about paying bills, dealing with the bank, collecting benefits, selling your house, etc. A health and welfare LPA allows decisions on medical treatment, care, medication, where you live, etc. Making a LPA not only gives you peace of mind that someone of your choice will be there to manage your affairs, but can also make this process less stressful for your loved ones, should they be placed into a situation where they need to make
decisions on your behalf. Pre-nuptial agreements – Okay, we appreciate this is not the most romantic thing to discuss with your partner when proposing, but in some cases a pre-nuptial agreement may be a sensible thing to consider. It perhaps also doesn’t at first glance appear to be “estate planning”, but the costs of divorce can often be greater than the costs of any inheritance tax. Consider, for example, a couple who each have children from previous relationships. They may wish to ensure that their assets are ‘ringfenced’ to ensure they would not be lost on divorce – Such planning is often incorporated in Wills but of course this only covers a scenario should either party die. It is important to stress that pre-nuptial agreements are not legally binding, although they are increasingly taken into account provided they meet the following conditions: ● Each party has received good quality legal advice ● Each party makes a full financial disclosure ● The terms are fair and reasonable (for example making sufficient provision for children) ● There is no pressure on either party to sign the agreement The issues raised above are not necessarily exhaustive, but hopefully this article demonstrates that estate planning is just as much about control over your assets as it is about tax. However, whether you are looking for advice on general estate planning or mitigating inheritance tax please contact us if you need further guidance and we will be happy to help.
Karen Wynard is head of corporate services at Eastwood & Partners (Financial Services) Ltd
Yorks car dealerships drive ahead A CAR retailer with sites across Yorkshire has achieved record sales. Family-owned company JCT600 boosted turnover by 1.3% to £623m in 2011 from £613m the previous year. The firm, which has 42
dealerships across Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, and the North East, made pre tax profits of £8.5m on ordinary activities – down from £12.3m in 2010 – following significant investment as margins were squeezed in difficult trading conditions.
While UK new retail registrations fell by 14.2% and used car sales dropped by 0.4%, the Bradford-based firm bucked the trend to increase sales of new cars by 1.3% and used car sales by 4% while making major investments in the business.
Consultancy seals merger
A HOLMFIRTH-based human resources consultancy has completed a four-month project. The Personnel Partnership has been overseeing a merger between two leading West Yorkshire not-for-profit mediation services, Mediation Yorkshire and Mediation Leeds. The new company will operate under the name Yorkshire Mediation Services and will be one of the largest providers of community mediation services in the UK with a staff team of eight and more than 50 volunteers. The organisation will work to resolve conflict across the region, focusing on neighbour dispute resolution, peer mediation and workplace mediation. It will also provide training in mediation, communication and other conflict resolution skills. The Personnel Partnership was appointed to advise on all employee-related issues arising from the merger, including overseeing redundancies and providing guidance on the Transfer of Undertakings, (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006. The project, which began in January, was managed by Helen Straw, founder of The Personnel Partnership. As well as providin all the strategic and practical advice, she supplied the relevan paperwork relating to an effective restructure. Complex legal advice on the application of TUPE was provided by Amanda Beaumont of Seabury Beaumont LLP. Bridget Rowe-Sykes,chief executive of Yorkshire Mediation Services said: We engaged The Personnel Partnership to provid professional HR support throughout the merger as we knew it was crucial to give staff confidence that the process was being handled fairly and in accordance with legislation. “I found it really useful to be able to refer to Helen’s expertise when questions arose about terms and conditions. She always gave excellent, knowledgeable advice and created a programme of activity for us which helped us meet the TUPE transfer date on time.” Helen said: “I am happy to say that the merger process, which can be very emotional and difficult for employees and managers alike, went smoothly and to the timetable identified in the original plan. “I really enjoyed working with Bridget and the new board of YMS. It was a pleasure to help them get to where they needed to be in a fairly tight timescale, whilst ensuring legal complianc and best HR practice. I look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.”
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Tackle the taxing bills TAX TALK Colin Barratt
CCORDING to a recent survey, the A number of people falling into the higher rate tax bracket has increased
significantly over the last few years, despite difficult economic conditions. The increase is put down to a combination of the rise in income coupled with a real decrease in the threshold at which higher rate tax applies. Currently, higher rate tax applies where a person’s total gross income exceeds £42,475. In the last Budget, this threshold will reduce to £41,450 from April, 2013, potentially increasing the number of higher rate taxpayers still further. There are a number of ways individuals can mitigate their tax bills. For married couples, it would be sensible to review the assets of each spouse to see if transfers can be made from one to the other to ensure personal allowances are not wasted and basic rate tax bands are utilised as far as possible. Assets transferred between spouses are done so on a no gain/no loss basis which may also reduce a couple’s overall tax bill on their sale as both will then be entitled to a Capital Gains Tax exemption of £10,600 for 2012/13. Unused allowances and rate bands cannot be carried to a subsequent year. Due consideration should always be given to any commercial or other risks in identifying such transactions particularly with business assets qualifying for Entrepreneurs’ Relief which could be jeopardised. Switching savings into an ISA can build up a tax-free fund; the maximum investment
is £10,680 of which £5,340 can be held as cash on deposit. Paying personal pension contributions as well as making charitable Gift Aid donations can be useful in obtaining higher rate tax relief. Where such donations are already made by a married couple, it would seem sensible for these to be paid by the spouse who is the highest rate taxpayer as they are able to obtain the optimum relief for these payments, without affecting the tax position of the charity. If you are employed, your employer might offer a salary sacrifice option to say boost pension savings or to help towards the cost of childcare. The salary sacrifice can help mitigate tax bills but they will need to be correctly structured to be effective. As mentioned in my last article, from January 7, 2013, a tax charge will apply to an individual whose income falls between £50,000 and £60,000 where they or their partner are in receipt of Child Benefit. The charge will be 1% of the full Child Benefit award for each £100 of income within this range. For instance, a Child Benefit recipient with two children would get £1,752. If their adjusted net income is £54,000, the income tax charge will be £700.80. The charge on taxpayers with income above £60,000 will be equal to the amount of Child Benefit paid. Making use of some of the above mentioned ideas can help mitigate higher rate tax bills as well as possibly protecting entitlement to Child Benefit.
Colin Barratt is tax partner at Wheawill and Sudworth chartered accountants, Huddersfield
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Sales soar for fire service supply firm A COMPANY supplying fire-fighting equipment has reported a massive increase in sales. Brockholes-based North Fire lifted turnover by almost 200% during the 2010-11 financial year. Managing director Oliver North said that during an extended period of economic uncertainty, the company had continues to show encouraging financial growth. Recent deals with several fire brigades had
helped “significantly” move the business forward. During the last financial year, the company’s end of year results showed turnover of almost £600,000. This has risen to almost £1.5m in just six months – to the end of March, 2012. Mr North said: “We couldn’t be more pleased that to have trebled our turnover within just six short months. This is the perfect start to the new financial year.”
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Call for action on late pay GOVERNMENT should do more to encourage the prompt payment of trade bills, says a business support group. The Forum of Private Business said the Government tendering process should take into consideration the length of time contractors take to pay their suppliers. The not-for-profit group is urging the Government to use the contracts as a tool to fight late payment by refusing contracts to those companies who take an unreasonable amount of time to pay invoices. New research carried out by the forum in conjunction with credit reference agency Graydon UK suggests that more than half of all small businesses have been affected in some way by the practice in the last year alone – with 16% claiming it has nearly put them out of business. “While we strongly support the Government’s plans to improve the public sector procurement process for the benefit of smaller private sector businesses, it would be extremely welcome if it were to ensure only those firms which pay their suppliers promptly
are awarded these lucrative state contracts,” said forum senior policy advisor Phil McCabe. “It would send a clear message to big business that late payment is not acceptable and will not be tolerated by government. “This is an amazing opportunity for it to lead by example and set the standard for the private sector to follow. “There really is the potential for massive impact here for very little effort and, after all, if government is paying primary contractors within 10 days, why should those same contractors not settle with their suppliers as soon as possible?” Mr McCable said: “Our latest research on late payment shows clearly the impact late payment has on small business. “By being a beacon of best practice and only using firms which respect the supply chain by paying their dues promptly, the Government would be demonstrating huge support for small business.”
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Green plan ‘impractical’ says FMB GOVERNMENT plans to force homeowners to spend thousands of pounds extra on “green” home improvements when they extend their properties will be impractical, unpopular and counterproductive, warns the Federation of Master Builders. Brian Berry, FMB chief executive, said: “There is an urgent need to improve the energy efficiency of our existing homes, but people should be encouraged and not forced to take action as the current proposals will only backfire on the Government. “In the current economic climate when many homeowners are struggling to pay their bills it makes no sense to impose this hidden tax.” He said: “A survey of our members reveals that 70% of FMB building companies do not believe that the Government’s proposals are technically, functionally or economically feasible to implement for most domestic extension projects. “Our research also shows that 73% of builders think that home owners would carry out less work as a result of the proposals with a further 69% expecting homeowners to turn to cowboy builders instead to get around the proposed legislation. ” Mr Berry said: “The Government needs a rethink about the best way to encourage homeowners to make their homes greener and more energy efficient as the current proposals are self-defeating. “What is needed is a range of incentives to help kick start energy efficient home improvements. A good way would be to reduce VAT on energy efficient repairs or lower the Council Tax. The last thing homeowners need at this time is extra cost.”
property
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Listed building plea to Osborne CHANCELLOR George Osborne has been urged not to press ahead with a 20% increase in VAT on approved alterations to listed buildings. S eve n t e e n o rg a n i s at i o n s, including the Campaign to Protect Rural England, the Federation of Master Builders, the Heritage Alliance and the Royal Institute of British Architects have signed a letter describing the disruption the budget measure is already causing to planned building projects and the threat it poses to the future of the UK’s historic buildings. Brian Berry, chief executive of the Federation of Master Builders, said: “All of our organisations feel strongly opposed to the Government’s decision to remove the zero rate of VAT on approved alterations to listed buildings because it makes it so much harder to give them a sustainable future. “Sympathetic alterations are often needed to ensure our historic buildings can continue to be of social, cultural and economic value. “This might mean improving listed town centre buildings, converting redundant farm buildings
or renovating town halls and community buildings for the enjoyment of all. “Furthermore, we shouldn’t underestimate the role these buildings play when it comes to supporting our local economies. “Heritage tourism contributes over £20bn a year to the UK economy, supporting almost half a million jobs.” Mr Berry said: “We all saw the recent GDP figures showing that a decline in construction sector output helped drag the economy back into recession in the first quarter of 2012. “So it is deeply difficult to understand why the Government is taking a decision that will lead to a further fall in construction activity. “The Treasury has acknowledged this increase in VAT will have an adverse effect on the construction industry and we already know projects are being cancelled or curtailed. “Under EU law, once the zero rate of VAT has been removed it cannot be reinstated. Therefore, we are urging the Government to reconsider its decision in order to prevent a further decline in the industry at this time.”
■ BUDGET BLOW: Chancellor George Osborne has been urged to support the construction industry by abandoning plans for a 20% VAT increase on approved alterations to listed buildings
Andy Thornton answers call A COMPANY in Elland has completed a capital assignment. Interiors and fit-out specialist Andy Thornton Ltd worked with design agency Blacksheep to provide decorative interiors at Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar at the five-star London Marriot Hotel, County Hall. The company worked closely with Angie Newby-Stubbs, head designer at Blacksheep, and the interior contractor from concept drawings and a detailed brief. The process included inspections at Andy Thornton’s workshops and the provision of samples for approval at every stage of the manufacturing process. The centrepiece in the main bar area is an elegant cocktail bar, supplied by Andy Thornton, which features an illuminated bar counter in specially-sourced granite with a zinc bar top. The back fitting comprises of an ornate solid brass drinks gantry with open glazed shelving and four antique mirrors to effectively display the impressive selection of spirits. Underneath are specially manufactured stainless steel clad base units and stainless steel worktop. Directly in front of the bar is a circular seating area, defined by four bespoke high wing-back
■ FINE DINING: Part of the interior of Gillray's Steakhouse & Bar, which has been equipped by Elland-based Andy Thornton Ltd curved deep button-backed sofas set around a circular patterned carpet. These have been upholstered in mustard leather to complement the carpet. Andy Thornton also supplied lounge chairs, tubs and coffee tables all manufactured specially to Blacksheep specifications. To the sides of the foyer entrance, Andy Thornton installed brass-framed cloak
cupboards with silvered mirrored doors and a brass clad wine display feature. There is also a free standing greeter station by the riverside entrance and a curved reception counter close to the restaurant. In the restaurant the focal point is the Cheese & Chutney servery, which incorporates a mirrored counter and bespoke granite worktop and a display gantry in
brass with decorative spinnings. Around the restaurant Andy Thornton also supplied three free-standing waiter stations in veneered oak with granite tops and mirrored splash backs. Leather Chesterfields fill the restaurant and bar, including one at nine metres in length, specially made with a slight radius to fit against the curved back wall. These are matched with a mix of bespoke side chairs, again manufactured to Blacksheep designs and upholstered in premium colour-dyed leathers with contrasting piping to give a contemporary feel. Cast iron table bases are matched with a mix of marble, oak and zinc clad tops. Angie Newby-Stubbs said: “From the inception of this project, Andy Thornton has delivered on every level, from initial design discussions on the bespoke furniture to site delivery. “All members of the team are professional and a delight to work with. Working in such close partnership has meant that this project was delivered to the highest standards expected not only of Blacksheep but also the client, Marriott International.”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS PRELIMINARY ANNOUNCEMENT AUCTION – THURSDAY 19 JULY 2012 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.
Eastlawns
Thomas Street, Lindley, Huddersfield, HD3 3JJ
■ SPORTING STARS: Rachel Foster, centre, of Hunters Estate Agents with, from left, Giants Aaron Murphey, Jonny Molloy and Matthew Sarsfield and colleagues Katy Marshall, Peter Blackburn and Helen McManus
Giants at open day AN estate agency in Huddersfield celebrated its new name and new look with an open day featuring three players from Huddersfield Giants. Aaron Murphy, Jonny Molloy and Matthew Sarsfield joined the team at Hunters Estate Agents, John William Street, to meet their fans. There was also a free draw for clients buying through the agency to win four free tickets for an Giants game after completion.
The Huddersfield office of Hunters Estate Agents was one of many Bairstow Eves offices to be rebranded Hunters in the closing months of 2011 – following the announcement in September that Hunters Property Group had acquired Countrywide Franchising Ltd, which traded under the Bairstow Eves name. Rachel Foster, who runs the office, has operated her own estate agency franchise on John William Street for
the past seven years – and has been so successfully that her father, Peter Blackburn, joined her two years ago. The transition to Hunters has seen the office refurbished and renamed. Rachel said: “It has been, and continues to be, a very exciting time for us here at Huddersfield. We are the same great team, but with the added benefit of Hunters enhanced marketing packages and systems.”
Energy assessment A CONSTRUCTION group involved with major projects in Huddersfield has turned up the heat on its rivals. Leeds-based GMI has refocused its renewable energy business to provide clients with a total energy management service. GMI has delivered an extensive range of solar photovoltaic schemes for major clients including Tesco, Town Centre Securities PLC, JCT600 and Pavers Shoes. Now its GMI Renewable Energy business has been renamed to trade as GMI Energy, providing a better representation of the wider scope of capabilities offered by the group. Expanding on the experience of delivering projects such as the largest solar pv system for Tesco in the UK and the country’s largest city centre solar system – at the time of installation – at Clarence Dock in Leeds, the professional team at GMI have built a wealth of knowledge. It has also built a network of partners to cover renewables and energy efficiency systems. These include low energy lighting, biomass boilers and smart metering solutions.
To drive the business forward, GMI has appointed Carl Nielsen as managing director of GMI Energy. He has more than 27 year's experience working in the mechanical and electrical sector for NG Baileys and has a thorough understanding of different properties and their energy requirements. Said Mr Nielsen: “It is an exciting time for GMI as the business continues to expand and grow into new areas that provide the perfect complement to the core construction business. “As energy requirements and legislation for UK property is evolving in the coming years, we want to be the partner of choice for clients to provide them with a full turnkey solution for their energy management needs from a name they trust.” Among its construction projects, the GMI group is building Kirklees College’s new engineering centre at St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield. It also developed a Travelodge and Costa Coffee outlet as part of the Spindlegate development at Leeds Road in the town.
Residential development site 0.2 Hectares (0.62 Acres) in centre of Lindley. Planning application pending for erection of 12 semi detached dwellings.
Dean Bottom Works
Storthes Hall, Huddersfield, HD8 0PP
0.31 Hectares (0.76 Acres) industrial land and buildings. Potential for other uses subject to planning permission.
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.
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 permission for residential conversion.
25 – 29 Market Street Huddersfield, HD1 2HL
Substantial town centre commercial property/site opposite Sainsbury’s. Exciting development/conversion opportunity.
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.
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.
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.
76 Ashbrow Road
Sheepridge, Huddersfield HD2 1DF
New driving force at property agency PROPERTY agency CBRE has expanded its service offering to include a petroleum and automotive division in West Yorkshire. The new division will operate as part of a 30-strong team in the company’s global corporate services division. The new team comprises director Alastair Coates, surveyor Richard Syers and consultant Peter Squire, who will continue to carry out transactions for the team’s global oil company property
accounts and seek to expand the business with automotive dealer groups, car park operators and petrol retailers. Richard Sunderland, managing director of CBRE in Leeds, said; “The new team brings with it a wealth of experience within this specialist sector. “Based in a northern office of CBRE, they will offer an extensive service to regional clients with the benefit of the team’s national and global coverage.”
Stone built cottage requiring full modernisation in popular residential location. Elevated position with superb views. Gardens to front and rear.
31 Market Street
Heckmondwike, WF16 0EU
Substantial town centre retail/office building with secure yard. Upper parts suitable for residential subject to planning permission.
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Mark Richards & Lee Cory
Ferno (UK) Ltd CLECKHEATON-based Ferno (UK) Ltd, which manufactures medical equipment for the emergency services, has made two new appointments to oversee the company’s continued expansion into the military sector and drive forward its after-sales service. Mark Richards (pictured, top) joins Ferno as a specialist business development manager with more than 15 years experience in sales and customer account management. He will work on a number of business development projects across the UK, including building relationships and growing sales with the Ministry of Defence, developing Ferno’s service division and leading training for key clients and Ferno partner companies. Mr Richards has previously worked for Seymour Manufacturing International, Pepsico UK & Ireland and Shippam’s, part of the Princes food and drink group. Ferno has also promoted Lee Cory (also pictured) from service technician to service team leader. He will be responsible for managing the day-to-day running of the service division, which offers an after-sales repair and maintenance service and asset management systems to customers. Ferno managing director Jon Ellis said: “Mark brings a wealth of solid experience in sales and business development and I am confident that he has the skills to further extend our interests in the military and defence sector where many of our products are already used. “Lee has worked for us for seven years and has gained an incredible level of knowledge about Ferno and our products. His new role will allow him to apply that knowledge at a higher level to further develop and enhance our service business.”
Nigel Lombard
S&C Labels SPECIALIST printer Print-Leeds has appointed Nigel Lombard (pictured) as head of new sales development for its Huddersfield-based labels division, S&C Labels. Mr Lombard, who is an experienced account manager , has been appointed to develop new accounts in the beverage label industry, in which S&C Labels specialises. S&C Labels produces bottle labels for customers including Marston’s, Sam Smith’s and Carlsberg. S&C Labels, based in Kirkburton, was acquired in a £1m deal by Print-Leeds in February. The deal tripled Print-Leeds’ turnover to nearly £5m and the number of employees to 40. Print-Leeds’ managing director Rod Fisher said: “We’re lucky to recruit a sales person of Nigel’s calibre. “We know from our research we can increase our market share as bottling plants and brewers want quality print from experienced and long established firms and exceptional customer service, which is exactly what we have built our reputation on at Print-Leeds.” S&C Labels will move to Print-Leeds’ premises in Stanningley, Leeds, later in the year.
Movers and shakers
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Branching out to save energy BUSINESSES are set to go green with a new initiative from the Huddersfield-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. The Lockwood-based chamber has teamed up with member firm Orchard Energy, based in Elland, to launch an energy and environmental efficiency scheme aimed at encouraging companies to reduce their carbon footprint. The partnership with Orchard Energy and its waste management division, Orchard Environmental, will see a tree planted for every business that signs up to the scheme. “When we decided to launch the scheme we were looking for a local organisation that could provide a range of services to help businesses reduce overheads and improve sustainability,” said chamber spokeswoman Kathryn Shuttleworth. “We have worked closely with Orchard on a proposal that we believe will help our members save money and improve their green credentials.” Gareth Henderson, Orchard Group managing director, said every chamber member would be offered a free energy and waste audit to help identify inefficiencies and highlight areas where savings can be made. “Finding ways to reduce overheads, cut down on energy consumption and manage waste more effectively isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for business too,” he said. “Energy and waste represent significant costs for businesses and any measures that can help reduce spending, particularly in the current economic climate, will make budgeting easier and allow for investment in other areas.” Mr Henderson said Orchard will plant trees quarterly – one tree for each member entering into the new scheme. Members will be given the opportunity to pick the species and location and Orchard will report regularly to the chamber on the number of trees planted and the volume of carbon offset by the scheme.
■ DIG THIS: Orchard Energy’s Gareth Henderson, right, and Richard Gage with Kathryn Shuttleworth, left, and Tracy Smith, of the Mid Yorkshire chamber
It’s an enterprising effort
BUSINESS bosses got an insight into the commercial operations of Huddersfield Town at the latest meeting of the Huddersfield Town Enterprise Academy. More than 135 people attended the event held at Huddersfield YMCA in Salendine Nook to hear Town commercial director Sean Jarvis (pictured, front) speak about the club’s commercial activities, including marketing, communications and
corporate social responsibility. The event was co-sponsored by law firm Chadwick Lawrence and accountancy firm Grant Thornton. The academy, set up in 2009, is managed by West Yorkshire-based Yorkshire Business Growth and provides a focal point for businesses in the region to come together, exchange ideas and learn new aspects of business practice through a series of networking events.
Firms ready to set out the stalls KIRKLEES firms will be manning the stalls at a trade show next week. The Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with the Calderdale and Kirklees branches of the Federation of Small Businesses to stage the Chamber-FSB Trade Show 2012. Chamber members across Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield are invited to attend as exhibitors and delegates. The event takes place from 4pm to 8pm next Tuesday at the Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top. The event aims to bring business people together, help exhibitors meet potential new customers, build brand awareness, demonstrate and sell new products and services. Keynote speakers will be Yvonne Castle (pictured), managing director of award-winning firm business coaching specialist YCChange; and Mike Holman, who has been involved in business networking for more than 10 years and who has spoken internationally and nationally on the subject of networking and “word of mouth” marketing.