FTSE 100
JAS SOHAL Huddersfield pride
-16.34 5510.82
Full inter view - Page 3
NEIL WILSON Red tape challenge Column - Page 5
An EXAMINER publication
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Firms team up for major export drive
TWO Huddersfield companies have joined forces to impress top designers at a leading fashion fabric trade fair. Exportwise Consulting has helped Samuel Tweed Fabrics launch its new collection of luxurious mohair fabrics onto the international market at the prestigious Premiere Vision event next February in Paris. Export consultant Florence-Claire Deniel set up Edgerton-based Exportwise Consulting earlier this year after 30 years experience working in international sales and marketing in Europe, America and Asia. The Huddersfield businesswoman is working with local businesses to help them identify, develop and maximise opportunities to trade internationally. She said: “Export is playing an increasingly important part in helping Yorkshire businesses grow in times of economic uncertainty. “During a recession, businesses need to seek new opportunities and diversify their customer base. However many small business owners simply don’t know where to start, which is where I can help.” John Harrison, managing director
■ WORLD WIDE: Export consultant Florence-Claire Deniel, of Exportwise Consulting
of Samuel Tweed, John Harrison, said: “Working with Florence has really helped to maximise the vast opportunities that international exporting can
bring. “By showcasing our new range at the world’s premier fabric trade show, we are not only introducing Hudders-
field fabrics to Europe, but to countries across the world.” Exportwise Consulting provides tailored advice for small and medium Yorkshire-based companies looking to export, supporting them in their journey into international trade. Samuel Tweed Fabrics was founded by the Tweed family who still farm at Bolster Moor. The family used wool from their farm in a small weaving mill to make textiles, including travelling rugs for the rapidly growing motoring fraternity. Over the years, other products were added including floor rugs, scarves, and stoles. By the mid-1950s – with the firm now based at Whitley Willows – clothing fabrics were being shipped to the top fashion houses of Europe. In the early 1970s, mohair was introduced into the collection for the first time. The name Samuel Tweed has been synonymous with luxury mohair ever since. In 2005, the Samuel Tweed brand was acquired by Mr Harrison, who was design director and had designed and marketed Samuel Tweed fabrics for more than 25 years.
Be prepare for a ‘slow and sluggish’ recovery KIRKLEES companies must accept a “slow, sluggish” recovery that is likely to take between three and five years, an insolvency expert has warned. Andrew Walker, Yorkshire regional chair of insolvency industry body R3. said the latest Insolvency Service figures showed a flattening in corporate
insolvency – just days after official figures showed UK growth of 0.5%. He said: “Insolvency numbers remain historically low compared to the levels seen after previous recessions – largely as a result of the value of business assets currently too low for creditors to pursue – they simply will
not cover the debts they are owed. “Consequently businesses are being allowed to stay afloat albeit as a ‘zombie’ enterprises. When the economy begins to enjoy a period of sustained growth we are likely to see creditors being more aggressive in their pursuit of debtors.”
R3’s Business Distress Index revealed that 43% of firms are experiencing decreased profits. Said Mr Walker: “The first few years after a recession are traditionally difficult as it will take some time for businesses to sufficiently rebuild their reserves to support expansion.”
INSIDE Winning ways A COMPANY providing managed IT support to professional firms has won a monthly business award. Lockwood-based P2 Technologies is the latest winner of the award run by law firm Eaton Smith in association with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Business Link.
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Image building KIRKLEES construction firms have been urged by the Federation of Master Builders to help tackle a shortage of skilled workers by showing how the building industry can offer rewarding careers.
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Solicitors for business inYorkshire www.chadwicklawrence.co.uk Huddersfield | Wakefield | Halifax | Leeds
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
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Ryanair posts rise in half-year profits
L O W - C O S T a i r l i n e Ry a n a i r announced a jump in profits – but said passenger numbers will fall by 10% this month as it grounds more planes this winter. The Dublin-based operator posted profits of £467.5m in the six months to September 30 – an increase of 20% – as a 13% rise in average fares helped it offset a 37% hike in fuel costs. The company is pulling 80 of its aircraft to reduce winter losses amid soaring fuel prices and expects traffic to fall 4% in the second half, with 500,000 fewer passengers flying in November. The strategy will improve its full-year profit forecasts by 10% to £378.2m, reflecting a boost to its margins. Ryanair, which has a fleet of 272 planes, said average fares rose as a result of a better mix of new routes and as competitors put up their prices in
■ ON BOARD: Ryanair passenger numbers are set to fall this month
response to higher costs. Revenues were up by 24% to £2.7bn while passenger numbers rose by 12% to 44.7m. Outspoken chief executive Michael O’Leary also hit out at BAA’s decision to call for a judicial review into a ruling that it must sell Stansted Airport as “pointless”.
He said: “These delays allow BAA Stansted to continue to charge excessive fees and generate monopoly profits, even as Stansted’s traffic declines from less than 24m passengers in 2007 to less than 18m in 2011.” He called on the Competition Commission to end the “interminable delays” and force an early sale of the airport. Ryanair said comparisons with the previous year were aided by the disruption caused by the Icelandic ash cloud in 2010, which resulted in flight cancellations. Revenues from additional charges rose by 15% to £418.6m after Ryanair extended a reserve seating trial from 40 to 80 routes. The results represent an improved performance on the first quarter when profits rose by 1% to £120.2m.
Jobs in jeopardy
Ryanair recently outlined ambitious plans to almost double the number of passengers it carries and stretch its reach across Europe. Mr O’Leary is reportedly aiming to increase passenger numbers to as much as 130m over the next decade, up from 72.1m in 2010/2011. This would make it one of the biggest airlines in the world. Ryanair believes that higher fuel costs could work in its favour by forcing competitors to cut capacity and routes and drive demand for budget airlines. The results follow the announcement last year that Ryanair is to base a third aircraft at Leeds Bradford Airport from summer 2012 – adding six new routes to the 20 already operating there in a move expected to create up to 100 jobs and attract an additional 900,000 passengers a year.
Call to reform tax credit system
Premier given extra time
MORE than 30,000 jobs could be created if the Government agreed to reform the system of giving tax credits to firms for research and development, it is claimed. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and the Engineering Employers Federation maintained that economic output could be increased by £3.1bn over the next 30 years if the system was changed. A joint submission to the Government said that investment decisions by UK and foreign firms would be boosted if the current arrangement of tax credits was changed to a cash benefit or redeemable credit when research and development costs
THE troubled company behind Mr Kipling and Branston pickle said it had been given extra time by its banks to get its finances in order. Debt-laden Premier Foods said tests on financial covenants, which were due on December 31, have now been deferred for three months as it buys more time to thrash out a refinancing package. Shares rose by 11% after the company described the latest development as “an important step” towards a longer term financial foundation for the business. The move was also seen as a vote of confidence in new boss Michael
arose. The additional cost to the Government would be about £205m a year, but 7,700 jobs would be created on conservative estimates, rising to 31,300 under more optimistic assumptions of the impact of the change, said the report. The business groups warned that some firms were looking more favourably to countries such as France, where R&D incentives were “dramatically” more attractive. US-owned firms would particularly benefit from the change because at the moment they have to pay more tax in the US if they receive credits in this country.
Clarke and his plans to focus the company’s efforts on eight “power brands” of Hovis, Ambrosia, Batchelors, Bisto, Loyd Grossman, Mr Kipling, Oxo and Sharwood’s. St Albans-based Premier has been scrapping for its life in recent months as profits plummet and it struggles to keep up with repayments on its £850m debt mountain. Its share price has collapsed from 34p to 4p over the past year after a series of profit warnings. It has suffered as shoppers increasingly switch to supermarket own-label brands and it is forced to put on more promotions to compete.
MORE than 1,000 jobs are at risk after a push by Carphone Warehouse and America’s Best Buy to crack the UK electronics market ended in failure. Best Buy’s 11 “big box” stores will close by the end of 2011 after it made losses of £46.7m in the six months to September and Carphone said current trading conditions meant the venture did not have a viable future. Carphone and its partner Best Buy launched their joint-venture in 2008 with a promise to shake up a market dominated by Currys and PC World owner Dixons Retail and Comet, although the first store did not open until 2010. Best Buy originally planned 200 stores in Europe by 2013 and hoped to undercut the competition on price and offer American-style customer service. Despite a £1.1bn investment, its launch coincided with the downturn, which saw a substantial drop in demand for sales of TVs, video consoles and computers, while the growing popularity of the internet added to its woes. Carphone hopes to find work for the “large majority” of 1,100 staff at its 805 stores in the UK, which are increasingly focusing on electrical goods such as smartphones and tablet computers, particularly through its Wireless World format.
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £31.56 -0.37 Gannett 704.79 -1.56 Hess Corp £39.29 -0.30 Microsoft 1637.34 -0.62 Motors Liquidation 46.80 Wal-Mart Stores £35.69 -0.19 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Avon Rbbr 300 -3 BAE Systems 2725/8 -11/4 Rolls-Royce 717 +21/2 AIM Brady Plc 781/2 Dawson Intl 11/4 Man Brnze 35 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 1863/8 -37/8 BANKS Barclays 1793/8 -41/4 HSBC 535 -5 3 Lloyds Banking Gp 27 /4 -7/8 1 Ryl Scotland 22 /4 -7/8 Stan Chart 13941/2 -18 BEVERAGES Diageo 1309 +1 SABMiller £221/8 CHEMICALS Croda 1748 Elementis 98 1401/2 -11/2 Johnsn Mat 1804 -40 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2411/4 -41/2 Costain 1993/4 -3/4 ELECTRICITY
Drax Gp 5481/2 +7 Intl Power 3351/4 +51/4 SSE 1338 +24 ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Laird 1483/4 -27/8 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 3381/2 -7/8 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 1907/8 -1/4 Cable & Wireless 391/4 +1/4 Comm Cable & Wireless 275/8 +1/4 Wwide Colt Group 101 +1/2 KCOM 701/2 -21/4 Talktalk Telecom 1231/4 -33/4 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS Morrison W 3101/4 -17/8 Sainsbury 2985/8 -33/8 Tesco 4045/8 -7/8 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 1112 -18 Tate Lyle 679 -2 Unilever £203/4 +1/8 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 3021/2 +43/4 National Grid 6221/2 1 Pennon Grp 714 /2 +31/2 Severn 1568 +25 United Utils 624 +71/2 GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 1963/4 +7/8 ICAP 3623/4 +121/4 London StockExch 897 +24 Man Group 1411/4 +11/4
Provident Financial 1044 -7 Schroders 1380 +10 Schroders NV 1206 -6 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS Cooksn Grp 4741/4 -101/8 REXAM 3363/4 -83/8 Smiths Grp 9531/2 -121/2 GENERAL RETAILERS Ashley L 203/8 -1/8 Carphone Whse 348 +3 Dixons Retail 103/4 Home Retail 891/2 -11/2 Inchcape 3271/4 +63/4 Kingfisher 262 -1/2 M&S 326 +21/2 1 Mothercare 154 /4 +31/4 Next £271/2 +3/8 WH Smith 5551/2 +2 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 5401/2 -81/2 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 75 Barrat Dev 871/2 -17/8 Persimmon 4961/4 -61/4 Reckitt Benckiser £323/4 -1/4 Taylor Wimpey 363/4 -5/8 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING Charter 905 -5 IMI 8031/2 -19 INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 3041/2 -123/8 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BBA Aviation 1801/8 -23/4 LIFE INSURANCE
3221/4 1043/4 1073/8 618 2701/4 2071/8 MEDIA BSkyB 7411/2 D Mail Tst 4253/4 ITV 631/2 Johnston Press 45/8 Pearson 1155 Reed Elsevier 547 STV Group 1063/4 Trinity Mirror 48 Utd Business 5061/2 UTV 120 WPP 6671/2 Yell Group 35/8 MINING Anglo American £233/4 Antofagasta 1206 BHP Billiton 19831/2 Eurasian Natural 6761/2 Res Fresnillo 1866 Kazakhmys 935 Lonmin 1071 Rio Tinto £345/8 VEDANTA 1251 RESOURCES Xstrata 1003 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES Inmarsat 461 Vodafone Group 1727/8 NONLIFE INSURANCE Admiral Grp 1180 Aviva Lgl & Gen Old Mutual Prudential Resolution Standard Life
-61/2 -1 -3/4 -21/2 -11/4 -11/4 +21/2 +5 -15/8 -1/8 +3 +1/2 +3/4 -3/4 +21/2 -7/8 +4 -1/8 +1/4 -5 -4 +11/2 +27 -16 +8 -1/8 -6 +1 1
-2 /8 -1/8 -6
Local shares Carclo Marshalls National Grid Weir Gp
2963/4 861/4 6221/2 1860
+10 -33/4 -71
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5510.82 Down 16.34 RSA Insurance Gp 1081/2 -11/4 OIL & GAS PRODUCERS BG 1372 -11 BP 4523/4 +1/4 1 Cairn Energy 288 /8 -33/4 3 Royal Dutch Shell A £21 /4 Royal Dutch Shell B £223/8 +1/8 Total £315/8 -1/8 Tullow Oil 1418 -12 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES AMEC 901 Petrofac 1397 -6 Wood Gp(J) 6191/2 PERSONAL GOODS Burberry Gp 1353 -15 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £295/8 -1/8 Axis-Shield 469
GlaxoSmithK XD Shire 1988 REAL ESTATE Brit Land 4953/4 Captl Shop Cent 3151/2 DTZ Hldgs 27/8 Hamrsn 395 Land Secs 680 SEGRO 2293/8 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Autonomy Corp £251/2 Invensys 2101/4 Logica 811/4 Misys 2843/4 Sage Group 2783/4 SUPPORT SERVICES Berendsen 438 Bunzl 799 Capita 700 De La Rue 8631/2 Electrocomp 2125/8 Experian 7901/2 G4S 250 Hays 77 Homeserve 2971/8 Menzies J 4913/4 Rentokil 661/4 Smiths News 941/4 Wolseley 1841 IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs 6201/2 Psion 521/4 Spirent Comms 1245/8 TOBACCO Br Am Tob £29 Imperial Tobacco £23
7 -19 -103/4 -2 -183/8 -115/8 -11 -21/4
-123/4 -31/8 -51/4 +25/8 -55/8 -11/2 -71/2 -1/2 -21/4 -9 -37/8 -1 -251/4 +93/4 -25/8 -1/4 -10 -241/2 -3/4 -33/8 -1/8 +1/4
TOURIST RATES
LEISURE & HOTELS Bwin.Party Digital Carnival Compass Grp easyJet Enterprise Inns FirstGroup Go-Ahead Gp Greene King Intercontl Htls Intl Cons Airlines Gp Ladbrokes Mitchells & Butlers Natl Express Rank Org Stagecoach Group TUI Travel Whitbread
135 £22 5691/2 3523/8 313/4 329 1343 4447/8 1095 1493/4
+3/8 +1/4 +4 -13/8 -1/4 -21/2 -4 -23/8 +8 -71/8
1371/2 2281/4 2181/4 1385/8 2461/4 1595/8 1646
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FTSE 100
INDEX 5510.82
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FTSE 250
INDEX 10302.24
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Tourists going abroad can expect the following rates for sterling: Australia...................... 1.47 dollars Bangladesh................. 115.01 taka Brazil.............................. 2.51 reals Canada....................... 1.55 dollars China ............................. 9.07 yuan Czech Republic ...... 26.76 korunas Denmark....................... 8.25 krone Euro................................ 1.11 euro Hong Kong................ 11.79 dollars Hungary................... 320.31 forints India.......................... 69.21 rupees Japan........................... 119.00 yen Mexico ....................... 19.20 pesos New Zealand .............. 1.87 dollars Norway ......................... 8.61 krone Pakistan.................. 129.92 rupees Philippines ................. 58.70 pesos South Africa.................. 11.93 rand South Korea.............. 1561.00 won Sri Lanka ................ 166.26 rupees Sweden....................... 10.11 krona Switzerland.................. 1.37 francs Taiwan ...................... 42.05 dollars Turkey....................... 2.66 new lira USA ............................ 1.53 dollars
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS HUDDERSFIELD is going places. That’s the view of Jas Sohal, partner at law firm sterlingKING. Jas, who is Huddersfield born and bred, foresees exciting times for the town – partly based on his own experiences in his area of expertise, commercial and residential property work. “Huddersfield is a thriving place,” he says. “But it has yet to realise its full potential. We have a first class university with strong world class businesses, such as David Brown Engineering and Cummins Turbo Technologies and Syngenta. “We are ideally placed on the M62 corridor and we are right in the heart of England with good links to other parts of the country – but we need to be encouraging development rather than stifling it. "We have to move with the times to keep Huddersfield at the forefront.” Notwithstanding the current economic climate, Jas insists: “In the next few years, I can see Huddersfield looking like a building site with development going on and cranes on the skyline – particularly along the Leeds Road and Cooper Bridge corridor and the town centre. “All it needs – once confidence returns – is to analytical mind – both of embrace development and which are more suited for the everything will start to legal profession. improve and things will fall “Whilst undertaking the into place.” law degree, I realised that I He believes it is imperative was in my element and I was that the town provides enjoying what I was doing. attractive sites to encourage But I only discovered which inward investment and thinks area of law I wanted to it is only a matter of time specialise in whilst I was before a scheme such as the completing my training long talked-about Mirfield contract.” gyratory comes to pass. Jas undertook his training Jas recognises the need to at one of the top 100 law protect green spaces, but firms ranked in the UK, says provision of a major Gordons LLP, where he business park is also vital, eventually stayed for nine adding: “Huddersfield needs years. “I had an intuitive feel development to create a buzz for real estate law,” he says. and to encourage blue chip “Around the time I qualified companies and smaller the property boom was in full businesses to come to the swing. There was a lot of area. That is what will work around and I was kick-start the Huddersfield working for high profile economy and create jobs.” corporate clients such as Jas also believes that his Wm Morrisons, JCT 600 and firm can play a part in driving Coors Brewery. It gave me a Huddersfield forward – as tremendous opportunity and part of the town’s network of a good grounding.” hard-working professionals. Later, Jas joined He says: “Our part is to Huddersfield law firm Eaton provide a professional and Smith LLP as a senior comprehensive quality solicitor, saying: “It seemed a service to our clients at good opportunity to come competitive prices and to deliver what the client needs. back to Huddersfield and to avoid the daily commute to We aim to understand our clients’ businesses as well as Leeds.” Jas set up sterlingKING we understand our own. If we Solicitors earlier this year in do that, their success will modern offices at Pennine result in our success.” Business Park, where he is a Jas, 35, went to Fartown High School, where his early ambition was the be a pilot. In fact, he went on to study law at Huddersfield University and the College of Law in York. He says: “I wanted to be a pilot, but as you go through your education, ideas start to crystallise you realise where your strengths really lie. “People at school used to say I had an eye for detail and I was very persuasive and tenacious in argument. ■ GREAT STRIDES: Jas English is one of my strengths and I also have an Sohal, of Sterling King
profile
Page 3 Jas Sohal
Time for a town plan! real estate partner working with a team of dedicated lawyers. Together, they cover areas including landlord and tenant , litigation, debt recovery, personal injury and employment law. “Working for Gordons provided invaluable experience and a good grounding,” he says. “But I felt inspired to look at opening my own practice. You get to a crossroads in life when you have to make tough decisions and I decided that now was the time to do it.” While many professionals choose to base themselves in the town centre, Jas had no qualms about setting up operations at the business park. “You have to think outside the box,” he says, “It isn’t a question of having to have a town centre presence; ultimately it’s a question of delivering a quality service to clients. “Due to modern communications it is no longer essential to have a town centre presence since we undertake work nationally as well as locally. The business park is well-established with major businesses operating at the business park, including Handelsbanken and The Examiner. “A lot of our work comes from recommendations and from clients who have followed me throughout my career. We offer practical and sensible advice and legal solutions to a variety of business problems.” Although the Bradley office has only been up and running for a few weeks, Jas and the team have already made great strides. “We have done some refurbishments in the office,” he says.
“We have also invested in a leading case management software which will streamline our work in all areas and will result in a better service for clients, ” Jas has plans for further expansion “We aim to go from strength to strength,” he says. “We want to create jobs and opportunities for young people to get work experience. We want to forge links with the university to provide work placements with undergraduates studying law. It is about putting something back into the community – not about taking.” Jas values time with his family – his wife Sarbjit and sons Jaren, seven, and two-year-old Devan. A true-blue Town fan, Jas takes
Jaren to watch the Terriers whenever he can, saying: “My eldest boy is an avid Town fan.” He adds: “In my leisure time I like working out at Maloney’s gym in Marsh Mills. I also enjoy running particularly on Saturday mornings as I join a friend and we run around the outskirts of Huddersfield – in all weather! There is no calling it off when it’s raining because neither of us wants to let the other one down! “I like going out with friends and socialising, but it is time with my family that I particularly cherish.”
Role: Partner Age: 35 Family: Married to Sarbjit with sons Jaren, seven, and Devan, two Holidays: Visiting the ancestral home in the Punjab. It is very good to de-stress by going back to see a simpler way of life Car: BMW First job: Helping out in a chemist shop on Bradford Road, Fartown Best thing about job: When a client pays me a compliment for a job well done. That is rewarding Worst thing about job: Having to chase that same client for payment! Business tip: Never look back in anger or forwards in fear
sterlingKING Solicitors Work: Full service law firm Site: Pennine Business Park, Bradley Employees: Four Phone: 01484 450500 Email: info@sterling king. co.uk Web:www.sterling king.co.uk
HENRYK ZIENTEK
On the board with Looking for a Mortgage Are you aware that HMRC launched a “Mortgage Verification Scheme” in September 2011. For a fee mortgages lenders will be able to check with HMRC whether an applicant’s stated income levels tie in with those reported on their tax returns. The aim of the scheme is to tackle fraud in the mortgage industry by helping asses risk. However, bear in mind that not only will this information be used to help tackle fraud, it will also help HMRC to identify differences in income levels being declared. HMRC will no doubt investigate instances where differences arise!
Lesley Sutton Director 01484 538 351
theboard@revellward.co.uk
www.revellward.co.uk
local
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KIRKLEES BUSIN
Time to broaden those horizons? ■ DRAGON’S DEADLINE: Dragon's Den tycoon Deborah Meaden
Time to make a snappy decision! DRAGON’S Den panellist Deborah Meaden is urging fledgling firms to put their foot down! The deadline to enter the exciting Local Business Accelerators is fast approaching. Now Deborah, who is the campaign’s national ambassador, is encouraging companies to make sure they don’t miss out. The scheme aims to reward successful businesses with top professional advice from business mentors and substantial fee advertising space in local papers. The Newspaper Society initiative is backed by almost 500 regional newspapers, including the Examiner, publisher of Kirklees Business News. Fledgling firms can apply to take part via www.accelerateme.co.uk until the November 14 deadline. Businesses from sectors such as catering, retail, technology, education, sports, creative industries and manufacturing have already applied. Said Deborah: “Local Business Accelerators is the perfect opportunity to drive your business to success. With less than two weeks before entries close I’m calling on businesses in the Kirklees area to get involved. “I’ve got a simple message for businesses in the area – don’t miss this great opportunity! Free advertising and invaluable mentoring advice to kick start your business is not to be thrown away. “So if you’re a business that’s between one and three years old, with a great idea that wants to succeed, enter to be in with a chance of building a better future for both your business and the local community.” For details of the scheme, go to www.accelerateme.co.uk
HE domestic business T market in the UK is tough at the moment and our area is
not exempt from feeling the strain. But whereas today’s business world is one characterised by change and uncertainty, organisations are taking this challenge head on by looking at the opportunities of international expansion. This is supported by findings from HSBC’s recent Trade Connections report, a new global trade forecast which found that by 2025, the UK is set to increase its international trade by 60%. This means that British businesses are expected to increase their import and export activity from current levels of $933.7bn to $1,360.7n in the next 15 years. Businesses in our area have as great an opportunity as any other UK region to capitalise – thanks to its strong reputation for innovation and industrial change. In particular, HSBC’s recent Future of Business report identified resurgence in manufacturing in the North East, harnessing technological advances and making
BANKER’S BLOG Jill Hague
the UK known for prototyping, plastronics and advanced composites. The next 15 years represent an exciting period for businesses in the region, if they take steps to capitalise on how the world is changing now. For businesses that are looking to grow, international trade is a great opportunity and it is important for businesses to shape their future strategy based on meaningful insights by ensuring the right strategic partners are in place. Learning from peers and contacts who can provide valuable i n s i g h t s, c o n s i d e r i n g a l l iances/partnerships and looking at supply chain risk will all help to prepare for the new venture.
International markets will always be subject to fluctuations, so businesses should conduct research and strengthen their knowledge about the markets they plan to trade with – from projected economic outlook, to relevant legislation and specific industry restrictions or regulations. With the right advice and preparation, what may initially seem to be a daunting prospect can result in a diverse business, leading to exciting new growth opportunities. As well as the obvious business potential, broadening a company’s horizons and improving the skills and knowledge of its staff are extra benefits of overseas trading.
Jill Hague is HSBC area commercial director for Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield
Co-operative solutions
■ VOICE: Michael Fairclough
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
THE economic crisis has provided a new lease of life to the co-operative movement, claims a new report today. The report, entitled The New Pioneers, has been released by The Co-operative Group. The report is the annual review of The Co-operative Enterprise Hub and illustrates how communities, by embracing the co-operative model, can support the economy for future generations. Key findings of the report show that: ● The co-operative economy is no longer regarded as a business backwater. It is witnessing new entrants engaged in a diverse range of sectors including pubs, marketing and media, sports clubs, education, playgroups and gyms ● The public is challenging the orthodoxy that the role of business is the relentless pursuit of profit ● The Co-operative Enterprise Hub has delivered more than 2,300 days of free advice, training and consultancy since its successful pilot scheme in 2009 ● The service, which earlier this year became available across the UK for the first time, has supported almost 700 member-owned enterprises ● The Co-operative Group, at the forefront of the resurgence of this alternative approach to enterprise, will invest an additional £7.5m between 2012-14 in The Co-operative Enterprise Hub - exclusively supporting
the development of fledgling and expanding member-owned enterprises Michael Fairclough, The Co-operative Group’s head of community and co-operative Investment, said: “The co-operative business model has been described as an old solution to a modern problem. “Fundamentally, it gives people a voice, a say in how services are delivered. “In an age when the general public have serious concerns about the transparency of our financial systems, it is a model that is being increasingly adopted. “As more and more people rediscover the benefits of self-help and mutual ownership, the co-operative alternative will, without doubt, play an increasing part in fostering future enterprise – contributing to the rebuilding of a more balanced and stable UK economy.” Mr Fairclough said the unprecedented economic, social and environmental challenges had given rise to unprecedented opportunities for co-operative development. The co-operation economy continues to grow. In 2010, sector turnover in the UK exceeded £33bn – growing at 4.4% and out-performing the economy as a whole. The Co-operative Enterprise Hub is witnessing the expansion of co-operatives across new sectors.
Free advice for growing firms
SMALL firms in Kirklees are being offered free expert advice from chartered accountants as part of a new initiative to help boost economic growth. The Business Advice Service has been launched by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales to help with a variety of issues. More than 2,000 ICAEW practices have already signed up t offer the initial free consultation under the scheme. Chris Manners (pictured), ICAEW regional director, said: “Start-ups growing small businesses need th best advice to succeed at a time o fragile recovery and limits on publ spending. “There is a clear need for expert business advice which helps SME and start-up businesses become engines of growth. “In response, the Business Advice Service will offer SMEs the opportunity to discuss their business with a qualified chartered accountant through a free initial consultation. “ICAEW chartered accountants wi be able to offer expert advice on a whole range of issues facing them from starting a business to turnaround, restructuring, financia management or taxation issues.” The scheme is supported by the Department for Business Innovatio and Skills. Small businesses can g details at www.businessadviceservice.com A Yorkshire region launch event w be held at 8am on Wednesday, November 23, at Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane ground. The speaker will be ICAEW director Mark Protherough and James Newman, chairman of Finance Yorkshire. Contact Carmel Smithson on 0113 322 0873 or carmel.smithson@icaew.com.
Terry provides the inspiration
THE former chairman of regional development agency Yorkshire Forward will aim to inspire busine delegates from across Kirklees at an event next week. Terry Hodgkinson will deliver his talk, Inspired Leadership - Finding the Hero Within Yourself, at a breakfast event organised by proN Business Networking. The event takes place from 7.30 to 9.30am on Tuesday, November 15, at Healds Hall Hotel in Liversedge. A spokeswoman for proNet said: “You don’t have to be a proNet member to attend this event and enjoy Terry’s presentation. The event is open to all.” Ring Jamie Dobson on 07792 090 700, e-mail inspiration@joinpronet.com or vis www.joinpronet.com
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Breaking down major barriers HANCELLOR George Osborne has C announced important changes to employment law which have the aims
of reducing the number of Employment Tribunal claims and boosting the economy generally. The Government has consistently spoken of businesses being concerned about taking on new recruits because of the amount of employment regulation currently in place in the UK. In response to this, it has been announced that, with effect from April 1, 2012, the qualifying period for unfair dismissal rights will be increased from one year to two years. It is unclear whether or not this will apply only to employees who are recruited after this time or whether current employees will be included as well. The Government has estimated that the measures could save businesses £6m a year and unfair dismissal claims should be reduced by approximately 2,000 per year. Business Secretary Vince Cable has commented: “We have one of the most flexible labour markets in the world, but there is more we can do to give British business the confidence it needs to create more jobs and support the wider economy to grow. Businesses tell us that unfair dismissal rules are major barrier to taking on more people.”
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EMPLOYER’S BRIEF Neil Wilson
In addition to the qualification for unfair dismissal, other proposed measures have been announced but will not be implemented at the same time. It is proposed that there will be a fee of £250 to be paid when lodging a form ET1 and a further fee of £1,000 payable by the claimant in a matter where it is listed for a final hearing. If the claim is for over £30,000, a higher fee will be payable and such fees will be refunded if the claimant wins and forfeited if they lose. Further comments by the Employment Relations Minister Edward Davey have suggested that low paid workers may be exempt from paying such fees. The aim is to require people using publicly funded services to make a contribution to it, whilst ensuring that those who cannot afford such fees are not necessarily preven-
ted access to justice. A sliding scale is likely to apply therefore depending on the employee’s income and those on the lowest pay levels may well not have to pay a fee at all. Tribunal fees are not likely to be implemented until December, 2013, and further consultation is expected. These announcements have been made in conjunction with the “red tape challenge” scheme which is aimed at inviting the public to comment on how laws can be simplified. Businesses are encouraged to comment on current employment regulation and a dedicated website has been set up so that feedback can be given on such matters as compliance and enforcement, termination of employment, managing staff and recruitment.
Neil Wilson is an employment lawyer at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors
KAL teams up with Town KIRKLEES Active Leisure has renewed its partnership with Huddersfield Town – while its logo appears on the front of the club’s academy shirts for a second successive season. KAL joined Town as the Family Partner last year and has lived up to that billing by hosting a number of family orientated days in co-operation with the club. KAL manages 11major sports centres and swimming pools across Batley, Dewsbury, the Colne Valley and Huddersfield on behalf of Kirklees Council – with the vision of getting more people more active more often across the region. KAL was also one of over 40 companies who donated money to enable 800 local school children to travel to Old Trafford and watch the League One play-off final at the end of the 2010/11 season. Town chief executive Nigel Clibbens said: “It is brilliant news that Kirklees Active Leisure has chosen to continue to support the club’s academy and to continue to be identified as the club’s formal Family Partner. We are very proud to have them involved.” KAL chief executive Alasdair Brown said: “We are extremely pleased that we have been able to continue supporting Huddersfield Town’s academy. “The importance of developing sports among young people is very important and the work which Huddersfield Town and the academy do within our local communities goes a long way in helping us deliver our vision.”
■ HOT SHOT: Town chief executive Nigel Clibbens (front) with academy manager Graham Mitchell (back) and KAL’s Alasdair Brown and Mark Dunstan
Close up view for bank’s managers MORE than 75 NatWest relationship managers in West Yorkshire will spend two days a year working for their local small and medium-sized business customers – to get a better understanding of the challenges facing these firms. Members of the bank’s team in Huddersfield are among those taking part in the Working With You programme. It involves all relationship managers in England and Wales who look after businesses with a turnover of up to £25m. The programme also extends to senior directors and credit teams. Across Yorkshire and Humberside more than 130 NatWest relationship managers are taking part in the programme. Those taking part will be given the task of examining how the business operates, assessing its goals and ambitions and finding out about any barriers or challenges it faces. Liam Kane (pictured), regional director for NatWest in Yorkshire, said: “All our relationship managers will go on these visits with a blank agenda and aim to get under the skin of the business. “Spending time with the business should highlight the practical issues that can give the management team sleepless nights. We need to appreciate these challenges by thinking like a business first and a bank second.”
property
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Firm expands into Brighouse A NEW tenant has been secured at an industrial estate in Brighouse. Aflex Hose, a leading manufacturer of flexible hoses for the pharmaceutical and chemical industry, has taken almost 28,000sq ft of space at Prince of Wales Works on the Armytage Road Industrial Estate. The premises are in addition to the firm’s existing site in Sowerby Bridge. The deal was completed by the Huddersfield office of chartered surveyors Eddisons on behalf of the landlord, Armytage Trading Company, off an asking rent of £115,000 a year. The self-contained site, which is near Junction 25 of the M62, was formerly occupied by Heritage Bathrooms. Meanwhile, Eddisons had been instructed to dispose of the former Broomfield Methodist Church, near Cleckheaton. Offers are being invited in the region of £220,000 for the premises on Shaw Street. The premises cover more than 1,500sq ft.
Retail park sold in £6.4m deal ACTING on behalf of The Merchant Navy Officers Pension Fund, the capital markets team at CBRE in West Yorkshire has sold Parkside Retail Park at Pontefract to Aviva for £6.4m. The retail warehouse park, which is close to J32 of the M62, comprises a terrace of five retail units totalling 44,641sq ft . The units are fully let to high profile tenants Pets at Home, Comet, Topps Tiles, Fitness First and Carpetright. Robin Bullas, of CBRE, said: “Parkside Retail Park is a successful retail destination with excellent long-term returns from the existing high calibre tenant base.”
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Winning tactics from Rixonway DEWSBURY-based Rixonway Kitchens – a leading manufacturers working in affordable and social housing – has donated a kitchen to Pontefract Collieries Football Club. Rixonway, the only UK kitchen manufacturer working solely with the social housing sector, donated the kitchen when it learnt that the football club’s catering facilities had been badly damaged in a fire. A number of teams use the Pontefract Collieries FC facilities including the Pontefract Pirates, teams for adults and children with learning difficulties. Performance Ensemble ‘The Company’, the newly crowned 2011 Drum Corps Europe champions, also use the facilities at the club to rehearse. Rixonway provided a kitchen from its Trieste range in beech which was chosen by the football club. Guy Nottingham, chairman of Pontefract Collieries FC, said: “The new kitchen has made such a difference. “We’ve been coping with just a kettle to provide refreshments for our teams since the fire and we are thrilled that we now have facilities to be proud of.”
■ CUP WINNERS: Manager Trevor Waddington with Pontefract Pirates in their new Rixonway Kitchen
The completion of the kitchen installation coincided with a charity event for the Prince of Wales Hospice which raised nearly £2,500 and saw a Hospice Select 11 play Leeds United Legends, who featured current Leeds Manager Simon Grayson. The match
referee was World Cup ref Howard Webb. Paul Rose, chief executive of Rixonway Kitchens, said: “It’s always great to see a donation have such a positive impact on a community. “We consciously support the
communities in which we operate, whether it be by supporting local charities, tackling worklessness or reducing our environmental impact in the region. “We’re delighted to hear the kitchen has made such a difference.”
Builder reports robust trading H O U S E BU I L D E R Ta y l o r Wimpey aid housing market conditions remained robust – despite the continued drought in mortgage lending. The group, which also trades as George Wimpey and Bryant Homes, has a current order book of 6,265 homes – up from 5,496 at the same stage last year – after an “encouraging” autumn trading period.
The company said cancellation rates remain at low levels and sale prices have been stable since results in August, when the group announced a return to half-year
profit. It added: “Housing market conditions in the UK have remained robust despite the ongoing uncertainty in the wider economy. “Although mortgage availability remains restricted, we have seen an ongoing incremental improvement since the half year results.” Wimpey has focused on driving more value from the properties it
builds and said this strategy meant it was on track to deliver its target for an operating margin in the double digits in 2012. It has also secured the purchase of 3,793 new plots on 36 new sites since the half year. Meanwhile, planning consents have been secured for 285 homes at a site near Bath, 650 homes at a site near Crewe and 233 plots at Worthing.
Closing date nears for awards HOUSEBUILDERS in Kirklees have been given an extension to the deadline for entering the National House Building Council’s Health and Safety Awards 2012. Builders now have until Friday, November 25, to submit entries for the award scheme, which recognises outstanding contributions to health and safety best practice in house building across all site sizes. Simon Mantle, NHBC group health and safety policy manager
at NHBC, said: “Health and safety is still a primary concern for housebuilders and is now becoming a key responsibility for everyone working on site. “There are fundamental practices that can be put in place on any size site to ensure that the safety and day-to-day well-being of all workers remains front of mind.” “Since the inception of the awards in 2009, we have seen increased interest every year and
the awards are fast becoming acknowledged as a fantastic accolade for business success and employee engagement.” All NHBC-registered housebuilders are eligible to compete in categories including best site, best company and best group of companies. Special awards will recognise excellence in occupational health, worker engagement and health and safety leadership. The closing date for the special
awards in January20, 2012. Entrants face a rigorous judging process, including site inspections for site entries. Small, medium and large companies will be judged against their peers in separate classes. A shortlist of finalists will be announced on March 16, 2012, before the awards ceremony on July 6 in Birmingham. Go to www.nhbc.co.uk/hsawards
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Efforts to build a better image CONSTRUCTION firms in Kirklees have been urged to help tackle a shortage of skilled workers by showing how the building industry can offer rewarding careers. As training body CITB-ConstructionSkills continues its review of construction education, skills and training, the Federation of Master Builders is urging all industry bodies to work together to improve the image of the industry and increase the number of high-achieving construction apprentices. Government figures showed a “significant” growth in apprenticeship numbers during the past 12 months. However, the total number of construction apprenticeships remained lower than the total number training prior to the recession. Output in the construction sector is expected to decline this year and next – meaning that many employers lack the confidence to commit to training a new recruit, even if they have taken on appren-
tices in the past. But the FMB said the industry needed to continue recruiting new talent to ensure it is able to meet future demand. Brian Berry, FMB director of external affairs, said: “While it is good news that the construction industry took on over 26,500 new apprentices in 2010/11, a lot of smaller employers remain extremely concerned about the future
and any further increase will undoubtedly be a major challenge. “Nevertheless, there are exciting times ahead for the industry as the country embraces the transition to a low carbon built environment. Therefore, it is essential we continue to attract enough high quality candidates.” He said: “Despite the common characterisation that the c o n s t r u c t i o n t ra d e s a re low-skilled jobs, the reality is very different. “The construction workforce is full of people who are highly skilled in their craft or crafts, and in order to keep pace with changes in the industry many more people need to develop these skills. “This is why it is important for industry bodies to continue to work hard to counter negative portrayals of construction in the media, and educate schools and colleges about the variety of rewarding career options in the industry.”
Agency’s reference pointer to success A LETTINGS agency in Huddersfield has increased turnover by more than 20% in just over a year through membership of a networking group. Applegate Lettings joined The Referrals Network to develop strong local connections and business relationships to help their fledgling business fly in the years ahead – and after only one year the company is moving from success to success. Company owner Amy Wray said: “It’s tough for everyone right now. “Long working hours are a day-to-day reality when you run your own business and as the list gets longer it just seemed impossible for me to focus on that all important new business. “I cannot express how much the members of The Referrals Network have helped me. It’s refreshing to see the barriers down and businesses looking out for one another.” Using the online Referral Network. Amy can run her business and still network – and refer business no matter what time of the day it is as
■ NETWORKING: Amy Wray (left), of Applegate Lettings, with Kaya Redmonds, of The Referrals Network it’s always open. Amy added: “This is probably why at least 65% of the company’s business derives from customer recommendations. We simply have the time to look after the people that make our business – customers.” The Referrals Network still values face to face meetings, but believes business people working towards a common goal can manage their own commitments successfully to
help each other. After meeting fellow members to learn of the services they provide, passing on referrals is online. The Referrals Network is the only UK online referrals networking facility. It already has two groups in Leeds, one in Wakefield and one in Huddersfield with expansion quickly progressing across other sites in Yorkshire and Lancashire.
Thursday 26 January 2012 Contact: Richard Smith MRICS, Paul Andrew MRICS, or Doug West huddersfield@walkersingleton.co.uk 01484 477600
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Sue North
Severn Unival SUE North has been appointed as human resources adviser for the Severn Unival and Severn Ball Valves divisions of the Severn Glocon Group. Ms North will manage HR policies and procedures and lead an employee development programme to support further improvements in business performance and customer service excellence across the two divisions. She will be based at Severn Unival’s premises in Milford Street, Huddersfield. Severn Unival designs and makes specialist valves for the energy industry in markets including the Middle East, the Far East, Europe, Canada, the USA and the North Sea. Severn Ball Valves is based in Aberdeen. The Severn Glocon Group employs more than 500 people worldwide and was awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in international trade earlier this year.
Stephen Harrison
Eddisons COMMERCIAL property agency Eddisons has appointed Stephen Harrison as associate director. Mr Harrison (pictured) was previously with Ryden Commercial Property Consultants. He joins the seven-strong agency team, which covers West Yorkshire, including Kirklees. Mr Harrison, 32, said: “I am delighted to have joined such a respected and recognised national company and look forward to contributing to its future growth.” Nigel McDonald, managing director of Eddisons said: “Stephen is an excellent appointment. His experience acting for national, regional and local property companies will compliment the expertise already within the agency department.” Eddisons employs more than 200 staff across eight offices nationwide.
Movers and shakers
They’ve a talent for technology! A COMPANY providing managed IT support to professional businesses has been recognised for its achievements since being formed just four years ago. Lockwood-based P2 Technologies is the latest winner of the Eaton Smith Business of the Month Award run by the Huddersfield law firm in association with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Business Link. P2 Technologies was set up in 2007 by colleagues Martin Page and Roger Pearson to act as clients’ IT departments or complement existing in-house teams. Since the launch, P2 has expanded its professional sector customer base and introduced new systems and quality measures to ensure customers receive the best service. Earlier in the year, P2 Introduced IT Anywhere, a cloud computing system which replaces traditional high-cost IT equipment for customers. Reducing capital expenditure and increasing IT flexibility and security, the service is proving to be a real success. P2 Technologies has now appointed an apprentice as part of Microsoft’s Britain Works campaign. The company also maintains strong links in the region by employing all staff in Yorkshire and sustaining local supply-chain relationships. It works with several local companies,
■ SWITCHED ON: Chris Taylor (third right) presents the award to Martin Page (second right) and Roger Pearson (right), of P2 Technologies with (from left) Kathryn Shuttleworth, of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce; Cathy Burger, of Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership; Jim Purcell, of Business Link; and Matthew Scholey, of Eddisons
including Kingsgate Shopping Centre in Huddersfield where it has helped to improve efficiencies and provides ongoing technical support. P2 has received Microsoft Gold Partner Accreditation, Dell Business Partner Accreditation among other standards. Mr Page said: “We are delighted to have been awarded Eaton Smith Business of the
Company in the swim!
Safety event focuses on the older workers AN ageing workforce and the implications for health and safety will be discussed at a seminar this month. Kirklees and Calderdale Occupational Health and Safety Group will provide an insight into the challenges surrounding physical and mental health, safety and well-being which face employers with an older workforce. The event follows the group’s successful September event, which looked at health and safety issues affecting younger workers. Issues will be addressed by speakers Angela Thompson, of PROHMS Professional Occupational Health Medical Services; Vanessa Scrimshaw, of New Dawn Resources; and Joanne Crawford, of the Institute of Occupational Medicine. The event takes place from 8.15am on Wednesday, November 23, at the Shay Stadium in Halifax. Go to www.kcohsg.org.uk/home or call group secretary Michael Metcalfe on 01422 388318
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A COMPANY working to keep vehicles on the road got into the swim to help a local group of youngsters. Roadside recovery specialist Britannia Rescue has donated funds to Kirklees Synchronised Swimming Club. The money will be used to train one of the club’s coaches to a higher level. The team – pictured above – came first in the under-15 section of the Leeds Kingfishers Competition and many of the girls are now competing at national swimming championship levels. The club, formed in 1985, faces the withdrawal of funding due to council cutbacks. Club chairman
Tracy Wyke is approaching local businesses to help keep the club afloat. She said: “We are extremely grateful for Britannia Rescue’s support. We are putting the money towards getting a teacher qualified to the level required so that we can run more classes and recruit more members. “Quite a few of the team are competing at national level now and will also benefit from the extra training time with a teacher.” Peter Horton, Britannia Rescue managing director, said: “Giving young people access to sport really helps them to develop vital life skills such as teamwork and communication.”
Month award. Our team continues to work hard to provide good quality service to all our customers and we are very proud to have received this award as recognition of our work.” The award is open to firms in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. Contact Ian Greenwood at Eaton Smith on 01484 821389.
Reward for good service A BUSINESS transformation company is calling for nominations for a new award to recognise outstanding customer service. Insight with Passion, co-founded by Huddersfield-born businesswoman Kate Hardcastle, has launched the Customer at the Heart scheme – which gives consumers the chance to have their say about positive customer service experiences and nominate worthy companies. Customer at the Heart has been designed to encourage and reward small and medium-sized UK enterprises in the retail and service sectors. Said Kate: “Customers are not loyal by nature and research shows that emotion influences purchase decisions six times more than rationale. “It’s therefore imperative in this current economic climate that companies strive to connect with their customers on an emotional level – which is something that can be achieved by delivering excellent customer service.” The first recipient of a Customer First Award under the scheme is the Potting Shed Spa in Leeds, which was recognised for its uplifting ambience, friendly and intuitive staff and “little points of difference” such as retro TVs and screening customers’ choice of DVD while they have their pedicure. To put forward your choice, email nominate@customerattheheart.co.uk