BRIAN STAHELIN
FTSE 100 -20.33 6834.77
HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014
The recruitment officer Interview - Page 3
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COLIN BARRATT Grounds for concern? Column - Page 4
An EXAMINER publication
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
By HENRYK ZIENTEK Business Reporter henryk.zientek@examiner.co.uk
■■ Enterprise agency chief Martin Hathaway
Two thousand new companies have been launched in West Yorkshire by entrepreneurial jobseekers looking to turn their business dreams into reality, according to figures from the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency. The milestone has been reached three years after the New Enterprise Allowance scheme was launched. The Government scheme partners jobseekers with a mentor to draw up a business plan then gives them financial support to help them through the early months of their company. West Yorkshire businesses which have been launched range from legal practices to heating engineers, web developers and personal trainers. The 2000th start-up is a gardening and maintenance firm in Wakefield set up by a mechanic made redundant after 17 years in the same company. Many more budding entrepreneurs are currently working with the
Enterprise Agency’s team of advisers and mentors to develop their business plans and are preparing to launch, further boosting West Yorkshire’s economy. Martin Hathaway is chief executive of the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency, which is an associate company of the Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and has the contract to deliver the New Enterprise Allowance in the county. He said: “West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency advisers and mentors have worked with hundreds of people since 2011 who have had the ambition, imagination and drive to want to start their own businesses. “We provide support and encouragement to all those placed on the New Enterprise Allowance with a business mentor from our MYMentor network, start-up advisers who guide them in the right direction and free membership of the chamber when they start their company – providing vital networking opportunities. “We are proud to have reached the milestone of having 2,000 of these
individuals turn their dream into reality and look forward to helping support more individuals begin their enterprise journey in the future.” The 2,000th firm was launched by Wakefield 44-year old Martin Wade who decided to set-up his own gardening and maintenance business after being made redundant from his job as a mechanic team leader at Direct Line after 17 years. He said losing his job made him take the leap into running his own company. Said Mr Wade: “I had always wanted my own business but, with financial and family commitments, found it difficult to justify not having the security of a guaranteed wage at the end of the month. Being made redundant made the decision a lot easier, it gave me the push I needed to bite the bullet and give it a go. “The support from the New Enterprise Allowance and the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency was invaluable. If I needed any information, I could ring someone up and they would help me out. Starting up on your own can be a lonely experience so it was great to know that someone was at the end of a phone.”
Well-grounded company secures £250,000 funding A down-to-earth company has been given a six-figure boost. Rogers Geotechnical Services Ltd (RGS), which specialises in soil investigation for the construction, property development and insurance sectors, has received a £250,000 investment from Finance Yorkshire. The equity-linked investment is enabling the company to update its fleet of vehicles and invest in a new drilling rig as well as refurbish its soils laboratory at its premises at Barncliffe Business Park, Shelley. RGS, a family-run firm with 15 employees, is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Managing director Emma Rogers is supported in the business by her husband and operations director Chay and his father Steve, who is technical director.
Emma said: “Despite difficult times through the recession, we have grown the business, largely by seeking new markets and we have got to the point where we needed to invest in new equipment, including a drilling rig. “Finance Yorkshire’s investment provides capital to the business and enables us to maintain our position in what is a competitive sector.” RGS operates nationwide with clients in both the public and private sectors and handles all aspects of ground investigation including fieldworks, in situ testing, geotechnical and contamination laboratory testing, subsidence/heave investigation, geotechnical and environmental consultancy. Finance Yorkshire investment director Paul Gower, said: “RGS
is an innovative, family business with a strong reputation for providing quality services. “We’re confident our investment will support RGS in growing in size and scale, serving current and newly acquired customers.” RGS was advised in the deal with Finance Yorkshire by Cathy Cook, of Jordans Solicitors in Wakefield and Martin Bown, of My Management Accountant in Huddersfield. To date, Finance Yorkshire has made 617 investments totalling more than £77m. Finance Yorkshire provides seedcorn, loan and equitylinked investments ranging from £15,000 to £2m to help small and medium-sized businesses meet their funding requirements for growth and development.
■■ Chay Rogers (left), operations director of RGS, with (from left) RGS managing director Emma Rogers;, Paul Gower, of Finance Yorkshire; Martin Bown, of My Management Accountant; Cathy Cook, of Jordans Solicitors; and Steve Rogers, RGS technical director
It has attracted £30m invest- £15m from UK Government ment from the European and £45m match funding from Regional Development Fund, the European Investment Bank.
Clothes show A textile firm in Huddersfield has embarked on a new venture to support British tailoring. Bradley-based fine cloth weaver C&J Antich & Sons has set up a commissioned suit-making service for British tailors under the English Tailoring Company brand. The move is set to bring benefits to the Antich Group – enabling the group to weave fine worsted cloth from sheep’s wool as a raw to material to the manufacture of fine suits. The aim is to provide UK tailors with a competitive all-UK alternative to outsourced overseas manufacture .
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Fruitful link-up Elland-based Orchard Energy is celebrating 10 years of trading – after being helped on the road to success by Queen’s Award-winning business adviser Eric Binns. In 2004, Orchard’s managing director Gareth Henderson sought advice from Mr Binns, who was an adviser with Business Link West Yorkshire at the time, about starting his own business. Now Eric is Calderdale Council’s principal officer for enterprise support and is the holder of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion.
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014 HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
national
Insurer ‘well-placed’ for further growth in 2014 Insurance and investment group LV= posted a 47% drop in pre-tax profits for the first half of 2014. But the group, which has call centre operations at Folly Hall Mills in Huddersfield, reported operating profits up 18% to £39m against £33m for the same period last year. Net earned premiums increased to £1.1bn from £1bn last time. LV= blamed short-term investment fluctuations for pre-tax profits slumping to £47m from £88m. last time. Earnings from general insurance were up by 7% to £46m against £43m before. LV= said group solvency remains strong at £718m. In life and pensions business, underlying operating profit fell to £7m from £11m, reflecting lower margins on enhanced annuities sales and increased sales of less profitable fixed term annuities. New business contributed £6m compared with £5m last time. Total life business sales increased by £55m or 9% to £662m. During the period, LV= was named the UK’s most recommended insurer,
according to research by YouGov amongst 30,000 consumers. It was also the first provider to launch a one -ear annuity to help customers affected by the budget – just 10 days after the announcement. General insurance business continued to diversify into non-motor lines while the group was also number one provider of income protection insurance sold by advisers. LV= saw renewal rates of 79% and 83% on direct motor and home insurance, while the UK Institute of Customer Satisfaction Index showed LV= to be the leading insurer for customer satisfaction. Mike Rogers, LV= group chief executive, said the increase in group operating profit was a good achievement
in what have been tough trading conditions for both its general insurance and life businesses. He said: “We’ve seen events affecting both businesses, with continued pressure on motor premium rates impacting general insurance and the Budget affecting our life business, so given this backdrop, we can be pleased with our performance for the year-to-date.” Commenting on the outlook, Mr Rogers said: “With our mutual model, focus on an excellent level of customer care, and diverse business lines LV= is well placed for continued business growth. “We expect to see motor rates start to improve to more sustainable levels later in the year and into 2015.
It’s plastic fantastic for De La Rue The Bank of England has named banknote firm De La Rue as preferred bidder to print the country’s first plastic bank notes. The Basingstoke-based firm, which has produced bank notes since 1860, is expected to sign an extended 10-year contract that will see it print standard notes from next year, as well as the plastic notes from 2016. De La Rue has printed notes at the Bank’s plant in Debden, Essex since 2003 under a contract due to end in April. Shares in the company, which prints more than 150 national currencies, closed 4% or 31p higher at 774p following the news. It will now co-operate with the Bank’s due diligence checks ahead of the contract being formally signed in the autumn. The decision to print plastic banknotes followed three years of research into the merits of polymer notes over current cotton paper notes. The notes, which are coated with a thin film of polypropylene polymer, are harder to counterfeit and stay cleaner for longer. More than 25 other countries use plastic banknotes, including Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Singapore and Canada.
“A degree of uncertainty will remain for our retirement solutions business until more clarity is provided on the new pensions landscape. “However, we are supportive of the Government’s decision to ensure that guidance offered to all retirees is provided independently as we believe this will help ensure the right consumer outcomes. “We have a well-recognised, strong brand and we remain financially strong and fit for the future.” LV= employs 5,800 people and serves more than 5.5m customers with a range of financial products. The UK’s largest friendly society and a leading financial mutual was founded in 1843. The organisation was formed in 1843 with the goal of giving financial security to more than just a privileged few. For many decades, the mutual was most commonly associated with providing a method of saving to people of modest means. Today, it offers its services direct to consumers, as well as through IFAs and brokers and partnerships with other organisations.
Construction workers ‘losing out’ New chief negotiator for Acas Construction workers are losing hundreds of pounds a month because of changes to their employment status, a union has warned. Ucatt said changes introduced by the Government in April prevented employment agencies and payroll companies registering construction workers as self-employed. Rather than employ workers on a standard PAYE basis, agen-
cies are now forcing thousands of construction workers to be employed via so-called “umbrella” companies, under which a worker has to pay both the employer and employee national insurance contributions, said the union. Workers report they are losing hundreds of pounds a month due to having to work under an umbrella company, according to Ucatt.
Arbitration and conciliation service Acas has announced a new chief conciliator who takes the lead on trying to resolve high-profile industrial disputes. David Prince, the service’s regional director in London and the South East, will take over from Peter Harwood next month. Brendan Barber, who chairs Acas, said: “Peter Harwood
The union is pressing the Government to introduce measures to end the “exploitative practice”. Ucatt official Andy Jones, speaking at the TUC Congress in Liverpool, said: “This is an attack on wages and a further move towards casualisation in construction and other sectors. While umbrella companies might be legal, they are certainly totally immoral.”
has given outstanding service assisting in the resolution of countless difficult disputes. “ David’s wealth of experience in employment relations with both employees and employers will be invaluable in his new role. “David had overall responsibility for dispute prevention and resolution during the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“His strategic role and his team’s hard work ensured that the Games remained dispute free.” Mr Barber said: “Research has shown that our collective conciliation work brings a very significant benefit to the economy, assessed as £76 for every £1 spent. “This is because of the potential impact when disputes are not resolved.”
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN
American Express Chevron Du Pont Exxon Mobil Gannett Hess Corp Microsoft Motors Liquidation Wal-Mart Stores Wrigleys
£55.20 -0.31 £78.15 -0.77 £40.65 -0.24 £60.67 -0.82 £20.72 -0.03 £61.43 -1.13 £28.81 +0.37 46.46 £47.48 -0.54 £49.54
AEROSPACE & DEFENCE
Avon Rbbr BAE Systems Chemring Cobham Meggitt Rolls-Royce Senior
AIM
600 Group API Grp Brady Plc Highland Gold Mining Johnson Service Grp London Security M”S Intl Nichols Redhall Group Scapa Grp Youngs GKN
625 4503/4 2331/2 297 471 1015 2813/8
193/4 -1/4 611/2 77 -1 641/2 61 £23 1981/2 10051/4 +131/4 161/2 +1/2 1371/2 9721/4 -61/4
AUTOMOBILES & PARTS BANKS
+21/2 -51/8 +1/2 -43/4 +1/2 -4 -43/8
3541/4
-31/8
Barclays Bk Ireland HSBC Lloyds Banking Gp Ryl Scotland Stan Chart Barr (AG) Diageo SABMiller Croda Elementis 98 Johnsn Mat
2247/8 257/8 6621/8 721/4 3421/2 1235
BEVERAGES
633 18191/2 £341/4
CHEMICALS
Drax Gp SSE
-11 +2 -1/8
£221/8 280 £317/8
-41/4 +1/8
2351/4 1477 288 651/4 192
-67/8 +9 -63/4 -3/4 -1
CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS
Balfour Beatty C”R”H Costain Low Bonar Marshalls
-13/8 -3/8 +13/4 -13/4 -41/2 +41/2
ELECTRICITY
6421/2 1477
-1 -34
ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
Domino Ptg Laird Morgan Advanced Ox Instmts Volex
-51/2 -4 -1/8 +2 -91/2 +6 -3/4 +3/8 -21/2
3871/4 50 1423/8 981/4 3097/8
-11/4 +1/8 +11/4 +3/4 -31/8
170 2915/8 2327/8 1081/2
-33/8 -3/8 +43/8 +47/8
£275/8 1600 439 6821/2 £271/4
-11/2 -5
324 /8 9141/2 8151/2 1976 866
- /4 -11/2 -8 -19 -8
FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS
Morrison W Sainsbury Tesco Thorntons AB Food Carrs Millg REA Hldgs Tate Lyle Unilever
FOOD PRODUCERS
-4 /2 -1/8 -43/8 -20 +31/2
4573/8 1381/2 562 271
+23/8 -11/4
Centrica National Grid Pennon Grp Severn United Utils
+11/2
3i Group
1
192 605 £267/8 398 527 854 2441/2 2333/8 711
FIXED LINE TELECOMMUNICATIONS
BT Grp Cable & Wireless Comm Colt Group KCOM Talktalk Telecom
580 /2 300 313 1143 873/4 1
EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS
Alliance Trust Br Assets Candover Inv Dunedin Inv
Dunedin Sml Edin Invst Electra Private Equity Forgn & C Henderson Smllr Cos North American Inc Scot Am Scottish Mortgage Witan
GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES 1
GENERAL FINANCIAL 3751/4
-31/2 1
-91/4
Smith Nph
Local shares Carclo Marshalls National Grid Weir Gp
135 192 9141/2 £263/4
-2 -1 -11/2 -3/8
FTSE closed at
6834.77
1377 3641/4 £201/2 1211/8 £207/8 £243/8 1867
GENERAL INDUSTRIALS
Smith DS Smiths Grp
2881/8 1340
GENERAL RETAILERS
Ashley L Dixons Carphone Home Retail Inchcape Kingfisher M & S Mothercare Next Signet Jewelers WH Smith
271/2 3691/4 182 677 3045/8 4281/8 250 £711/4 £731/8 1102
Aga Rangemaster Barrat Dev Bellway Persimmon Reckitt Benckiser Taylor Wimpey
155 3603/4 1566 1311 £535/8 1103/8
INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING
down 20.33 Close Bros ICAP London StockExch Man Group Provident Financial Schroders Schroders NV
1064
HOUSEHOLD GOODS
-3 -41/4 +1/8 -2 -1/2 -1/8 -13 -3/4 -7 +1/4 -55/8 -1 +2 -11/4 -73/4 +11/2 -7/8 +1 -13
HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES
Fenner I”M”I Molins Renold Spirax-Sarco Weir Grp Ferrexpo
-1 +4 /2 -45/8 -25 -24 +1/8 -21/8 1
350 1322 137 58 £291/8 £263/4
-7 -1/2 +1/4 -5/8 -3/8
131
-1
INDUSTRIAL METALS
INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION
BBA Aviation
317
LIFE INSURANCE
Aviva Friends Life Gp Lgl & Gen Old Mutual Prudential Standard Life
BSkyB D Mail Tst ITV Johnston Press Pearson Reed Elsevier STV Group
MEDIA
-41/2
5251/2 3043/4 2391/4 2003/4 1440 4063/8
-51/2 -41/2 -21/2 -41/8 -111/2 -101/8
8821/2 859 2183/8 37/8 1117 988 3511/2
+1/2 -15 -2 +8 -2 -143/4
Trinity Mirror Utd Business UTV WPP
1983/4 621 2041/4 1291
MINING
Anglo American Antofagasta BHP Billiton Fresnillo Kazakhmys Lonmin Rio Tinto VEDANTA RESOURCES
15431/2 791 1891 8511/2 3013/4 2201/4 £321/8 1078
-31/4 -31/2 -5 -2 -21 -3 -51/2 -161/2 +3/8 -41/8 -13
MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Inmarsat Vodafone Group
705 2051/2
NONLIFE INSURANCE
Admiral Grp Jardine LloydThomson Marsh McL RSA Ins Gp
-21/2
1208 4683/4 1751/8 3411/4 £243/8 £253/8 £403/4 723
-10 +17/8 -7/8 -25/8 -1/8 -1/8 -1/2 -6
OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES
AMEC Petrofac Wood Gp(J)
1091 1095 751
1515 3695/8
+23 -41/4
£453/4 14321/2 £513/8
+1/4 -15 +11/8
728 6431/2 604 3451/2 1071 3633/4
-4 /2 -6 -91/2 -3/4 -10 -37/8
3891/2
-1/4
1033 1645 1192 1531/2 774 2453/8 2453/8 1070 2627/8 1313/8 3143/4 639 5901/2 5051/2 194 1251/8 1685
-9 -10 +2 -21/2 +31 -3/8 -3/8 -3 -3/4 -11/4 +3/4 -161/2 -141/2 -121/2 -25/8 -13/8 -20
PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY
Astrazeneca GlaxoSmithKline Shire
REAL ESTATE
Brit Land Gt Portland Hamrsn Intu Properties Land Secs SEGRO
-20
-13 -7 -9
1
SOFTWARE & COMPUTER SERVICES
Sage Group
SUPPORT SERVICES
1289 986 £327/8 4671/2
OIL & GAS PRODUCERS
BG BP Cairn Energy Premier Oil Royal Dutch Shell A Royal Dutch Shell B Total Tullow Oil
-81/2 -1/2
PERSONAL GOODS
Burberry Gp PZ Cussons
Berendsen Bunzl Capita Connect Group De La Rue Elctro Com Electrocomp Experian G4S Hays Homeserve Interserve Menzies J Northgate Prem Farnell Rentokil Travis & P
£321/2
Wolseley
-1/8
TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE & EQUIPMENT
ARM Hldgs IBM Spirent Comms
TOBACCO
Br Am Tob Imperial Tobacco
981 +241/2 £1171/2 -1 +1/4 1055/8 £361/8 £263/4
+1/4 -1/8
95 £237/8 9821/2 1377 1161/2 124 £231/8 830 £227/8 3691/4 133 1485/8 4091/4 2485/8 9 161 6461/2 6003/8 3601/2 3651/2 £44 3483/4
-3/8 +1/8 -61/2 +11 -41/2 -2 -1/8 -81/2 -1/8 +5/8 -25/8 -23/8 -77/8 -21/8
TRAVEL & LEISURE
Bwin.Party Digital Carnival Compass Grp easyJet Enterprise Inns FirstGroup Go-Ahead Gp Greene King Intercontl Htls Intl Cons Airl Ladbrokes Marston’s Mitchells & Butlers Natl Express Punch Taverns Rank Org Restaurant Grp Ryanair Stagecoach Group TUI Travel Whitbread William Hill FTSE 100 FTSE 250
INDEX
6834.77 15768.25
-101/2 -5 -61/4 -33/8 -3/4 -41/8 -20.33 -156.34
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HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
profile
Making his mark in the jobs market There are few people better qualified to help others into the jobs market. In a varied and wide-ranging career, Brian Stahelin has sold encyclopaedias, worked behind a bar and done a host of temporary jobs for major names including Nestle and the BBC. But he found his forte in the field of recruitment – setting up his own company to match employers seeking temporary staff with candidates ken to get into work. Brian launched Stafflex in 2000 from a cramped 100sq ft office in Aspley. The agency now occupies 2,500sq ft of space on a prominent site at Chapel Hill and employs 18 staff to provide temporary workers for clients in the education, commercial, industrial and engineering sectors. In an industry which doesn’t always have the greatest of reputations, Stafflex has stood the test of time. Says Brian: “Our ethos is the same now as it was when when started – to try to deal with people decently and properly and not to be aggressive; to build relationships with clients. “People don’t like to be ‘sold to’. We understood that from day one. As a result, we still have clients on board who were with us right from the beginning. “We won’t poach people from other agencies just to get their ‘little black book’ of contacts. All our staff live pretty close to where we are – which means they know the area and the culture. We deal mainly within a 10-mile radius of our offices, although we are extending our boundaries. ”And we try to spend the money we earn in the local area. We try to put something back into the community because we are living and earning from it.” Stafflex is a long-standing sponsor of Huddersfield Town, but has also supported other causes – including funding sports kit to local schools, making a donation to Ravensknowle Gala and even backing a Buddhist monastery in Scotland!” The company is a member of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Huddersfield
Town Centre Management. Brian is a non-executive director and vice-president of the chamber as well as a trustee of Kirklees Active Leisure and trustee and chairman of governors at King James’ School, Almondbury. “We try to look after our staff,” he says. “We call it the Stafflex family. Length of service among the employees averages 60 months, which means there is continuity and knowledge to draw on. We are Investors in People and have been accredited four times. We give all our staff a week for personal developnment and a personal training budget annually. Last year, we had a particularly good year, so we invited all our staff and their partners for a break at the Swinton Park Hotel in Masham.” Continuity of employment is hardly the way to dsescribe Brian’s own career! Born in Salisbury, his father served in the forces which meant Brian lived at various times in Aden, Malaya, Germany and Norther Ireland. From the age of eight to 18, he attended boarding schools in Southport and Surrey. “You learned to carve your own path,” he says. “It teaches you to stand on your own two feet and be independent.” In his youth, Brian recalls telling his father that he wanted to be a manager “because it sounded good”, but was more interested in sport. He left school at 18 and had a
Brian Stahelin
variety of short-term jobs, including working for a demolition firm and on building sites, working in a pub cellar and selling encyclopaedias. He got a job with Nestle at its Croydon headquarters as a production programming clerk “dealing with the people moving milk from farms to the factory”. Just 18 months later, he was offered a commercial apprenticeship. “I wanted to be a salesman, but I was considered too young,” Brian recalls. “I chose HR – or personnel as it was called then.” Brian later had a spell at the BBC as a “temp” working for its central services department. He decided not to renew his sixmonth contract when it expired – but it had given Brian his introduction to the world of temporary labour. He worked in personnel at bookmaker William Hill, covering staffing issues at all its betting shop branches south of the river Thames, before moving to Yorkshire and working for organisations including Rowntrees and Shepherd Construction during the day and behind the bar at night to build up some funds. Brian’s career path took another twist in the early 1970s when he visited recruitment asgencies in Leeds to register himself as available for work. “I went into a firm called SOS Rwecruitment and it was electric,” he says. He joined as an interviewer before moving into
■■ Brian Stahelin, managing director of Stafflex Ltd at Chapel Hill
tele-sales and progressing to branch manager at Sheffield and then area manager covering Leeds, Sheffield and Bradford. During his time with the company, it grew from 17 to 120 branches and Brian ended up in charge of two trading divisions. He eventually set up his own recruitment businesses – firstly in Manchester and later in Huddersfield – before coming up with the concept for Stafflex. “I have been in the business for a long time now and I think it is a fantastic industry,” says Brian. “You don’t have to be the most academically-gifted person to do well in it. The recruitment industry is a great leveller and it is a superb industry for people to achieve whatever they want to achieve if they are prepared to work at it. It is an industry where you can have control of your own destiny. It’s possibly the secondoldest profession,” he adds. “The slave trading fairs of Roman times were a sort of recruitment process when you think about it!” Brian says Staff;ex weathered the recession thanks to its loyal and understanding staff, who all took as 20% pay cut. “They could see what it was like out there,” he says. “I didn’t want to lose anyone. Within six months, we were trading above the line and we returned everyone to full pay. “We kept in contact with our customers and as the economy started to improve, those clients stayed with us.” Brian says the employment landscape has changed in the wake of the recession. “More people are now self-employed and a lot of them are working from home,” he says. “It means they have more time to themselves and less stress. A lot of people are building up employment portfolios where they work for one, two or three different organisations. They get variety and they are less stale and less vulnerable if one employer goes under.” A busy diary means Brian is unlikely to get in a rut. “I like to go walking in the hills, visiting the pub, socialising and spending time with the family.” he says.
Role: Managing director Family: Daughters Abigail, 34, Jessica, 32, Rosie, 27 and Poppy, 24 Car: My ambition is to own an Aston Martin, but I’m never going to be able to buy a new one. My ‘boy’s toy’ is a 12-year-old Jaguar XKR. I also have a Nissan Pathfinder Holidays: Malta and travelling around the British Isles First job: I was a Christmas postie . I also worked as a pool attendant during the school holidays Best thing about the job? The fact that the job is never finished and the ‘social’ effect we have supporting our staff and their dependents Worst thing about the job? Employers who don’t pay us on time and candidates who say they will do a job and don’t Business tip: Make sure you make the right decisions for the right reasons
Stafflex Ltd Work: Employment agency Site: Chapel Hill, Huddersfield Phone: 01484 351010 Email: brianstahelin@stafflex.co.uk Web: www.stafflex.co.uk
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014 HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER
local
KIRKLEES BUS
Capital advice for the homeowners ■■ Town chairman Dean Hoyle cuts the ribbon with Vicki Davenport and Richard Allen, of The Pink Link Ltd
Dean opens Pink Link’s new base Huddersfield Town chairman Dean Hoyle was on hand to help logistics firm The Pink Link Ltd celebrate the official opening of its new premises at Oakes in Huddersfield. Dean cut a pink ribbon to open the premises at Crosland Road – with Town player Murray Wallace and former Town favourite, Andy Booth in attendance. The Pink Link Ltd team was joined by a number of clients, friends and family for a drinks reception with lunch and a tour of the firm’s new site and pink offices. The family-owned and managed palletised distribution specialist said the move and expansion had led to a number of key service improvements for its clients as well as closer motorway links and improved IT communications. David Allen, who founded The Pink Link Ltd in 1991 but is now retired, also attended and spoke highly of the business and its employees. “The business has come a long way since my involvement 25 years ago,” he said. “This is testament to my son and daughter who completed a management buy-out 10 years ago. “Since then, the company has gone from strength to strength. The new location is fantastic and exemplifies the business’ continuous strive towards improving service and customer experience.” Vicki Davenport, sales and commercial director at The Pink Link Ltd, said: “The official opening was a fantastic event and we were delighted to be joined by a great number of guests, customers and friends. “Customer care and providing the personal touch is key to The Pink Link success and is something the business prides itself on delivering at all times through our highly skilled customer service team. It was great to have the opportunity to show our guests around the new premises and introduce them to employees they may not have met previously.”
In recent years it has not been uncommon for homeowners to think about obtain planning permission in respect of their garden in anticipation that any windfall payment on a sale of the garden to a developer will be exempt from Capital Gains Tax (CGT). However, exemption from tax may not always be available. As mentioned in my last article, the gain on the sale of an individual’s home is generally exempt from CGT where they have just one home and this has been used as such throughout its period of ownership. The CGT exemption can also shelter the gain arising on the disposal of land which is occupied and enjoyed with the house as its grounds and gardens, where the area of does not exceed half a hectare (just over an acre). The exemption applies whether the land was disposed of at the same time as the house, or whether it was disposed of separately before the disposal of the house so long as it was still garden or grounds at the date of disposal. A gain on the sale of the grounds and gardens sold separately after the disposal of the residence will always be liable to tax. The timing of the sale is crucial; always sell gardens and grounds before or at the same time as the house, never after the house. Also, any part of the land which is fenced off from the house to be sold for
TAX TALK
■■ Caroline Swallow an the latest range of dem
Colin Barratt development will not be treated as being part of the grounds and gardens at the date of its sale, even if the area is less than half a hectare. The point being that it is no longer occupied as garden or grounds at the date of disposal. Careful consideration is required when looking at a prospective sale of the land so as not to disturb its status as a garden or grounds otherwise this could lead to an unwelcome and unexpected tax bill. Where the garden and grounds are in excess of half a hectare, the CGT exemption will only be available where the land is required for the enjoyment of the main house and not the enjoyment of the owners, taking into account the size and character of the house. In these circumstances, CGT exemption on the sale of larger grounds would need to be negotiated with HMRC. However, HMRC may see a sale as
evidence that the land was not required for the enjoyment of the house and they would then assert that any gain on its sale is taxable unless the disposal was made within the family and the owner was prepared to accept some restriction in the reasonable enjoyment of their residence, or the sale was due to financial necessity. Evidence would need to be kept to support a claim for CGT exemption in these circumstances in case of HMRC enquiry. Some homeowners may be able to negotiate the sale of their garden to a developer in receipt of an immediate payment plus future pay-outs depending on the success of the development. The initial lump sum would be regarded as a capital receipt potentially covered by the CGT exemption but the “slice of the action” payments would be liable to income tax.
Colin Barratt is tax partner at Wheawill and Sudworth chartered accountants, Huddersfield
Agency creates bonds with latest client Birstall-based marketing agency has secured a clutch of new client wins – including Bradford-based international adhesives manufacturers Fantas-tak Ltd. The agency has begun work on a campaign to maximise growth for Fantas-tak over the next two years and develop a new look across the brand. Fantas-tak is Europe’s leading manufacturer of glue dots and niche adhesive products. It also manufactures and supplies its own market leading brand of glue dots, SuperDots and devices for attaching CDs to packaging
SuperCentres and SuperStuds. Among its projects, Fantastic will set up new platforms to drive awareness and sales through two new business websites. Richard Turner, director at Fantas-tak Ltd said: “We approached Fantastic because of their enviable reputation for generating results as well as the firstclass strategic marketing ability and overall service.” Sally Wills, senior account manager at Fantastic Media, said: “The manufacturing industry is an area which we are steadily moving into, with a number of clients now coming on board from this
who use them by reducing the risk of serious injury or death. To become certified, a company must design its own road traffic safety framework by identifying threats to road traffic safety and then design and implement a plan
A Dewsbury furniture than 1,400 organisatio ted to transforming people with dementia Shackletons has sig tia Action Alliance an plan setting out how outcomes of The Dem ration. The main commitm funds to its research a sion to focus on inn and manufacture of for people with deme The company has l of dementia-focused designed to meet th demands within the r Jason Bloom, natio Shackletons, said: “W the Dementia Action the national program lobby for awareness standing of the needs tia. “Our input is ensu and maintains a fulfil lifestyle within a care Shackletons has be creating comfort for m is the UK’s leading care furniture which Yorkshire.
Charity helping ■■ Fantastic Media’s Andrew Hobson (left) and Michael Turner, managing director of Bradford-based Fantas-tak Ltd
sector. It’s definitely an excit- ing a long-standing relationing time at Fantastic and we ship with Richard and his are looking forward to build- team.”
Road safety focus earns recognition at FMG A Huddersfield company has become one of the first in the UK to achieve certification to the international standard for Road Traffic Safety. Fleet incident management specialist FMG said the standard – ISO 39001 – aimed to make roads safer for all
Shackle plays it
to overcome the road safety challenges they face. Ben Creswick, director at FMG, said: “We want to use our knowledge and experience to further support those in charge of company fleets, in the dual responsibility they increasingly face; reduc-
ing both the frequency of incidents and the impact of incidents on their people and business.” Mr Creswick said FMG had further incorporated robust internal mechanisms to manage the safety of our own people.”
A charity designing equipment for disab given a powerful boos Craftsmen at Brockh – standing for Desig Disability – were left w when the aged air com shop blew its last. It m as riveting and stapli hand. Now Bradford-ba equipment firm Thor at Barge Street in H plied a new comp DEMAND team car aids and adaptations over bed mirrors and Last year, more tha fited from DEMAND’ A spokesman for DE and equipment is one costs, the money sav ous donation will be u solutions to help eve ple.”
5
HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014
SINESS NEWS
nd Jordon South with mentia friendly furniture
etons ts part
e firm has joined more ons UK-wide committhe quality of life for a. gned up to the Demennd has set out an action w it aims to deliver the mentia Alliance decla-
ment will be to direct and development divinovation in the design furniture specifically entia. launched a new range d bedroom furniture he growing needs and residential care sector. onal sales manager at We have signed up to n Alliance to support mme which is there to and improved underof people with demen-
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and making bespoke bled people has been st. holes-based DEMAND gn & Manufacture for with a major headache mpressor in their workmeant heavy work such ing had to be done by
ased compressed air rite, which has a depot Huddersfield, has suppressor to help the rry on manufacturing s such as seats, ramps, d sports equipment. an 3,700 people bene’s charitable work. EMAND said: “As tools e of the charity’s major ved by Thorite’s generused to create bespoke en more disabled peo-
local
Company passes its health check International business Extract Technology has been awarded accreditation from Safecontractor for its commitment to achieving excellence in health and safety. Safecontractor is a leading third party accreditation scheme which recognises very high standards in health and safety management amongst UK companies. Extract Technology, which employs 65 people at it Bradley premises, specialises in providing containment and aseptic equipment for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. Extract’s recent clients have included major players such as GlaxoSmithKline, Astra Zeneca, TEVA and Sandoz. The company’s application for Safecontractor accreditation was driven by the need for a uniform standard across the business. General manager Alan Wainwright said: “To gain accreditation to the scheme is another important achievement for our business and clearly demonstrates our commitment to health and safety within our organisation. “Safecontractor accreditation not only supports our overall health and safety management practices, but will enhance the company’s ability to attract new contracts.” Safecontractor is applicable to most sectors, although it is particularly relevant to food manufacture, property, facilities management, retail and leisure sectors. John Kinge, technical director of Safecontractor, said: “Major organisations simply cannot afford to run the risk of employing contractors who are not able to prove that they have sound
■■ Extract Technology operations manager Paul Hudson (left), operations support administrator Gail Yates and documentation and health and safety controller Adam Ratcliffe with the certificate
health and safety policies in place. “More companies need to understand the importance of adopting good risk management in the way that Extract Technology has done. The firm’s high standard has set an example which hopefully will be followed by other companies within the sector.” Under the Safecontractor scheme, businesses undergo a vetting process which examines health and safety procedures and their track record for safe practice. Those companies meeting the high standard are included on a database, which is accessible to registered users
only via a website. Client-organisations signing up to the scheme can access the database, enabling them to audit potential contractors before they attend site. These clients agree that, as users of the scheme, they will engage only those who have received accreditation. Over 210 major, nation-wide businesses, from several key sectors, have signed up to use the scheme when selecting contractors for services such as building, cleaning, maintenance, refurbishment or electrical and mechanical work.
Sad note as former postman Darren takes up the reins at Cleckheaton lawn care firm A Kirklees businessman has taken control of a thriving lawn care franchise following the sad death of its former owner. Bob Anderson and his wife Anne launched TruGreen West Yorkshire in 2004 since when it has gone from strength to strength. Now Bob’s successor, Darren White, is relishing the opportunity to continue to develop the Cleckheatonbased business and bring in new staff to help grow the business. A former postman and franchise owner, Darren has local and technical knowledge to offer customers award-winning lawn care programmes and treatments. He said: “Bob was highly regarded within the lawn
■■ Darren White, who now runs TruGreen
care industry and the TruGreen national franchise network and it’s an honour to be serving his customers. Alongside my wife, Rachel, we aim to build a successful operation, employing more
local staff as the business develops.” TruGreen West Yorkshire is a franchise of ServiceMaster Ltd, a national franchisor based in Leicestershire. Steve Welch, TruGreen
operations brand manager – who has more than 30 years’ experience in the lawn care industry and as a sports groundsman – said: “Bob’s passing was a real tragedy and he will be greatly missed. “We are so pleased that Darren has joined the TruGreen family and is committed to building the business that Bob and Anne started 10 years ago. “They were passionate about changing tired-looking gardens into beautiful, attractive lawns and this reflects the ethos of Darren also.” Darren has begun trading as TruGreen West Yorkshire following his graduation from ServiceMaster Ltd’s training academy.
Firms must put provisions in place for auto-enrolment Many firms are underestimating the time needed to ensure they have provision in place for auto enrolment, according to a survey. The latest member survey by the Forum of Private Business into the cost of compliance shows that while a resounding 90% were aware of deadlines for them to have schemes in place, 51% have yet to start taking any of the necessary steps required to be ready for auto enrolment. While the figures presented a more positive picture compared with the most recent Employer’s Pension Provision Survey from the Department of Work and Pensions, they highlight the pressing need for small business owners to understand the importance of starting the auto enrolment planning process sooner rather than later. Ian Cass, head of business support at the Forum, said: “The findings show that our mem-
bers are ahead of the game when it comes to auto enrolment. It is great news that the overwhelming majority are aware of their staging dates and obligations thanks to high profile awareness campaigns and regular member updates. “However, awareness and action are two separate things. The question of whether small firms will be able to have their schemes up and running in time and at a reasonable cost remains a serious concern. “Questions over the ability of providers to cope with the high demand for pensions advice and their willingness to offer products to the SME market are a growing worry as we get ever closer to auto enrolment deadlines. “What is becoming all too apparent is that companies who fail to plan sooner rather than later could find themselves paying a premium for advice and more limited options.”
Awards deadline draws near for ambitious manufacturers Manufacturers in Kirklees have just weeks to put themselves forward for a prestigious national business award. E E F / A l d e r m o r e ’s Future Manufacturing Awards are designed to find the best of British manufacturing and give companies across the UK the chance to be recognised as industry champions. There are seven differ-
ent award categories to enter, including one covering strategic growth, smart products, health and safety, skills and training, operational excellence, climate and environment and exporting. There are also separate awards for the best manufacturing apprentices. All entries should be made before October 3, 2014 at www.eef.org. uk/awards/
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014 HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
local
Lawyers secure £10m payments for IRHP failings A LAW firm with offices in Huddersfield has reached a £10m milestone in recovering compensation for SMEs and individuals who were sold unsuitable Interest Rate Hedging Products (IRHPs). In 2012, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) identified serious failings in the way banks sold these complex products – finding that IRHPs were mis-sold on the basis that they would provide protection from future adverse interest rate movements. IRHPs were sold to customers, described by the FCA as unsophisticated and these customers faced substantial regular payments under the terms of the agreements and breakage costs, often running into the £100s of £1000s to exit the agreements. At an early stage of the review process, law firm Chadwick Lawrence identified that there was an imbalance where the banks relied on their own independent solicitors to carry out fact finds, but encouraged customers not to seek legal representation. The law firm reacted by developing a team of dedicated banking and financial specialists to deal with these cases, resulting in significant settlements for 65 clients over the past two years.
Chadwick Lawrence now works closely with forensic accountants, derivative experts, financial advisers and insolvency practitioners and has built a reputation in finance and banking litigation – so much so that they are now the go-to firm for this area of legal service, a significant growth for the company. Dan Hirst, associate solicitor at Chadwick Lawrence, said: “We have recognised a growth area for the firm and have dedicated time and resource into building up our skill-set to deal with all financial and banking matters, with great success. “Whilst for many the review process is coming to an end, we continue to receive instructions from those who have been unsuccessful in the review, those who have changed solicitors to take advantage of our expertise in the field and to those who are seeking assistance with the sale of embedded hedging products. Robert Brackup, partner at Chadwick Lawrence, said: “Over the past two years, we have successfully reclaimed millions for our clients. “Consequently, we are now approached by accountants, financial institutions and other solicitor firms to work with or advise on similar finance and banking cases.”
Initiative ‘will boost small firms’
■■ Dan Hirst (right) and Robert Brackup, of Chadwick Lawrence
Textile company launches all-British suiting service A textile company in Huddersfield has embarked on a new venture to support British tailoring. Bradley-based fine cloth weaver C&J Antich & Sons has set up a commissioned suit-making service for British tailors under the English Tailoring Company brand. The move is set to bring benefits to the Antich Group – enabling the group to weave fine worsted cloth from sheep’s wool as a raw to material to the manufacture of fine suits. The aim is to provide UK tailors with a competitive all-UK alternative to outsourced overseas manufacture . Chairman Chris Antich said: “We’re very proud to be able to offer this service to the tailors of England. “Sending production overseas is becoming less attractive and now we can provide independent tailors with an alternative to foreign manufacture that carries many benefits. “Our lead times are quicker for one,
■■ Chris Antich, of C&J Antich & Sons, based at Bradley
our cloth is superior, our production “Domestic garment and textile line is ‘greener’ for the environment manufacture was something that Britand let’s not forget the positive impli- ain was built on, but sadly it declined. cations that domestic production has “However, our new venture, the for the UK economy. English Tailoring Company, is a posi-
tive step in the reinvigoration of British manufacturing. And we hope to see other businesses trying to do the same.” Mr Antich said keeping manufacturing in Britain was hugely important for the local and national economy, for securing jobs for local people and for keeping prices competitive and quality high. Founded in 1989, C&J Antich & Sons has become a leading commission weaver, warper and mender in the Yorkshire fine worsted industry, producing the finest British worsted cloth for the world’s best known fashion brands. Antich, now the largest worsted manufacturer in the UK, has annual turnover of £2.8m and employs about 90 people. Production facilities at the Bradley site enable the firm to make 200 bespoke suits a month with a leadtime of just two to four weeks.
Professional services urged to enter expertise awards An initiative has been launched to recognise the success of the UK professional services sector in helping drive exports. The British Expertise International Awards 2015 is open to entries from British architecture, construction, development, infrastructure and related industries. Tracey Smith, chief executive of British Expertise, said: “Now
accounting for 10% of UK exports and 24% of UK services exports, the UK professional services sector is making a massive contribution to the UK economy. Our awards celebrate the successes of this sector, which too often in the past has been the unsung hero of the UK economy. For example, it achieved 120% growth in exports between 2001 and 2011.”
The awards place the spotlight on the UK professional services sector at a critical time. UK Trade & Investment believes that UK firms can secure an additional £10bn worth of contracts each year in high value opportunity projects across the globe. The Duke of Gloucester (pictured, right), president of British Expertise, said: “Our awards cel-
ebrate the remarkable achievements of the UK professional services sector. “These awards present powerful evidence of the consistent, world-class innovation that is being delivered by UK companies in this sector internationally.” The deadline for entries is November 5, 2014. Visit www. britishexpertiseawards.com
Business owners across Kirklees will benefit from a new Government initiative aiming to make life easier for the estimated 2.9m home-based companies across the UK, according to a local small business accountancy specialist. “This is welcome support for local home-based business owners,” said Nick Brook, who runs TaxAssist Accountants at Lockwood. “The Home Business Initiative is designed to cut the red tape associated with running a business from home and encourage more people to take the plunge. “Local entrepreneurs will no longer have to file for planning permission to run a home-based business, the majority will be exempt from business rates and a new tenancy agreement will make it easier to run businesses from rented accommodation. “Business owners must still consider their obligation to register with HMRC as self-employed and possibly even for VAT, regardless if their business is conducted purely over e-commerce sites. “Some people may not even realise they are trading, but if you’re buying with a view to selling at a profit, there is a good chance you are self-employed and should register to complete a tax return. ‘Never assume’ is always the golden rule when dealing with HMRC.” Recent research from the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills and entrepreneur organization Enterprise Nation found that home businesses contribute £300bn to the UK economy every year. The 2.9m home-based companies account for 59% of all UK small enterprise. Since 2010, the number of home businesses in the UK has increased by 500,000.
Blanket coverage A bedding manufacturer’s latest accolade is not to be sneezed at. Mirfield-based John Cotton’s Slumberdown brand has been awarded the Allergy UK Seal of Approval for its anti-allergy pillows, duvets, mattress and pillow protectors. Allergy UK’s Seal of Approval is an endorsement given to products which have passed the charity’s high standards of scientific testing and have proven efficiency at reducing or removing allergens. The Slumberdown anti-allergy collection inhibits dust mites and prevents bacteria and fungus from growing on the bedding. David Page, sales and marketing director at the company, said: “This is fantastic news for Slumberdown. We are proud to be associated with Allergy UK and to know that our products merit the Seal of Approval.”
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HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
Tour gives lift to Yorkshire hotels Hotels in Yorkshire have seen a marked improvement in their fortunes – and are now among the region’s best-performing businesses. New research by insolvency trade body R3 showed that just 16% of the 448 hotels in Yorkshire and the Humber had a higher than normal risk of insolvency in July and August – with levels now lower than those across the UK. In August, 18% of the UK’s 8,166 hotels had a higher than normal risk of insolvency. Yorkshire was the region whose hotels put in the strongest performance in the UK last month, only exceeded by London with 14% at risk. R3 uses research compiled from Bureau van Dijk’s “Fame” database of company information to track the number of businesses in key regional sectors that have a heightened risk of entering insolvency in the next year. Chris Wood, R3’s vicechairman for Yorkshire
■■ Chris Wood, of Clough Corporate Solutions, says a rise in consumer spending is helping to boost the hotel sector
and partner at Clough Corporate Solutions in Cleckheaton, said: “The hotel sector across the UK has faced some tough conditions in recent years and it’s encouraging to see it finally starting to improve, partly as a result of increased domestic consumer spending and also boosted by our hosting of international events such as the Tour de France and the Commonwealth Games, both of which have
attracted more overseas visitors, “There’s no doubt that the Grand Depart delivered a huge boost to the region’s hospitality sector, not only from the hundreds of thousands of visitors who descended on Yorkshire in July, but also from the positive feelings created by the phenomenal success of our hosting of this world-renowned event. “Having seen the glory
of the Yorkshire countryside on TVs around the globe, hopefully the Toureffect will continue as more people from both the UK and overseas choose to visit the region over the next few years.” Other sectors which continued to show a strong recovery in Yorkshire were agriculture and manufacturing which put in the strongest performances last month with just 12% of agricultural businesses at risk in August and only 17% in manufacturing having a higher than normal risk of insolvency. Mr Wood said: “We are seeing an overall improvement in many sectors. “However, during the recovery period it is vital that businesses continue to operate with caution. “With cash reserves depleted and funding still difficult, careful planning and cash flow management remains essential. “As ever, the key is to seek professional help at the first signs of financial difficulties.”
Building firms upbeat but labour costs pose a worry Two-thirds of construction firms in Yorkshire are more optimistic about their future prospects than they were 12 months ago, according to a new report. However, the survey of more than 600 companies by national law firm Irwin Mitchell highlighted growing concerns among senior decision makers about the cost of labour - with 61% expecting wages to rise during the rest of 2014. Irwin Mitchell said the skills shortage in the sector was partly responsible for the expected rise in labour costs. The law firm also highlighted the growing issue faced by main contractors who are seeing tender return prices increasing due to sub-contractor inflation following a long period of flat prices. The survey also revealed some significant differences in optimism in different parts of the UK with the lowest level of confidence recorded in Wales at 62%. The figure for Northern Ireland stood
TOWN CENTRE
£10,000 pa
at 75% whilst in Scotland the figure stood at 64%. In England, levels of business confidence were highest in the East Midlands (84.6%) and lowest in the North West (64.7%). Julie Morrissy, construction partner at Irwin Mitchell in Yorkshire, said: “On the whole, these results reflect an improving construction sector. “Not only are we seeing the impact of strong demand for house building, the sector is being buoyed by mid to high end residential developments, offices, commercial space and logistics. “The key now is to ensure that this positivity is sustained into the longer term. “The opportunities exist but there are threats and it is vital that companies deal with them effectively. “The availability of materials is a concern, but with the majority of firms expecting wages to increase during the rest of the year, it’s clear that the lack of skilled workers could also hamper future growth.”
CROSLAND MOOR
£3,500 pa
It’s time to ADD on some extra space A pallet distributor has secured the lease on a 22,400sq ft warehouse at Lowfields in Elland. ADD Express has taken the detached single storey warehouse which is directly opposite its 30,000sq ft facility. ADD is paying £5.25 per sq ft on a fiveyear lease with six months rent free. The Leeds office of Knight Frank completed the deal on behalf of asset managers Citivale, based in Leeds, and TIAA Henderson Real Estate. Tom Lamb, of Knight Frank, said: “This new deal for ADD underlines their confidence in Lowfields, which is a tremendous success story. The deal is also excellent news for the Calderdale economy, creating sustainable jobs for the region.” Mr Lamb said: “The rents at Lowfields are holding up exceptionally well, thanks to the quality of the park and its facilities, combined with its location. It is just off Junc-
l l l l l l
Shop to let Recenty renovated EPC D79 A3 permsson granted £192 per week Approx: 420 SQ FT
l l l l l
Headline into here for 150
WESTGATE HUDDERSFIELD
£1,500 pa
Hairdressing Salon 252 SQ FT £67.30 per week Within extra care housing scheme Rates not yet assessed
SANDY MOUNT
ALMONDBURY
£200,000
■■ Dave Fairbrother (left), of ADD, with Tom Lamb (centre), of Knight Frank and James Appleton-Metcalfe, of Citivale
tion 24 of the M62, so it benefits from the immediate links to the motorway network. “It is also very wellplaced for both Leeds and Manchester and has excellent access to both the East and West Coasts ports.” James Appleton-Metcalfe, managing director of Citivale, said: “We are
delighted that ADD are so happy with Lowfields Industrial Estate that they have decided to lease a further 22,400sq ft of quality industrial and warehousing space. We are proud to be part of their success.” Dave Fairbrother, director of ADD Express, said: “Lowfields is the perfect
geographical fit for us and the facilities are first-class. We are well-looked after by the owners, the units are superb and we have the option to buy in three years’ time. “All in all, the estate provides everything we need. We had no hesitation expanding here.”
l l l l l l
Town Centre office 2nd Floor Electronic Entry System Gents & Ladies WC Approx 380 sq ft Rateable value £2150
WESTGATE 54 John William Street, Huddersfield West Yorkshire, HD1 1ER
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FOR SALE Residential Development Site Approximately 0.63 acres On the approach to Almondbury Outline PP granted App No. 2013/60/93174/W
KIDROYD
8
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014 HUDDERSFIELD EXAMINER
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Birthday thanks for Eric’s sound advice
Martin Hathaway
New chief for chamber The Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce has announced the appointment of a new chief executive. Martin Hathaway succeeds former executive director Andrew Choi, who leaves the chamber this month to pursue other interests. Mr Hathaway is pictured (second right) with (from left) chamber chairman David Horsman, Mr Choi and chamber presidwent Steven Pollitt. Mr Hathaway was the former chief executive of Yorkshire and Humberside Chambers of Commerce and takes up the new role with immediate effect in order to ensure the continued success of the Lockwood-based chamber and its associated company, the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency (WYEA). The chamber operates across Kirklees, Calderdale, and Wakefield. Mr Choi was appointed in 2009 since when membership has risen due to rebranding and improvements to its membership benefits. The chamber’s annual
dinner is now established at the forefront in the Yorkshire region, and last year the organisation celebrated its 160th anniversary. The chamber’s MY Export Hub has become a highly-respected international trade support service and the MY Network partnership, along with MY Conferences, has positioned the chamber at the heart of the region’s business community. WYEA has supported more than 2,000 entrepreneurs who have started new businesses through the New Enterprise Allowance Programme while the WYEA Loan Fund continues to provide access to affordable finance for small businesses throughout the region. Chamber chairman David Horsman said: ““We welcome our new chief executive Martin Hathaway, and look forward to building on our efforts to support the future growth of businesses in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. Finally, we all wish Andrew all the best with his future endeavours.”
Kevin Anderson
Leading region’s marketers The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) in Mid Yorkshire has appointed Kevin Anderson as chairman. Mr Anderson, who takes over from Andrew Sherratt, has been a member of CIM for more than 18 years and a chartered marketer since 2005. He is currently global marketing director at The Big Word in Leeds. He said: “I am delighted to take on the role as chair in one of the largest regions within the CIM at a time where the CIM and the wider marketing industry continues to experience great change, driven through technology.
movers and shakers
“The Mid Yorkshire branch has over 1,000 members and I am looking forward to representing the regions’ members and continuing to deliver growth.” Kevin will formally take the chair at the CIM Mid Yorkshire Senior Marketers Lunch on September 18 – part of the “Marketing Yorkshire’s best – to the world” event. The session will hear from two leading Yorkshire business people – Mark Garratt, director of external affairs at the University of Bradford and Kevin Sinfield, tea marketing manager of Taylors of Harrogate.
By HENRYK ZIENTEK Business Reporter henryk.zientek@examiner.co.uk
It’s been a fruitful partnership. Elland-based Orchard Energy is celebrating 10 years of trading – after being helped on the road to success by a Queen’s Award-winning business adviser. In 2004, Orchard’s managing director Gareth Henderson sought advice from Eric Binns, who was an adviser with Business Link West Yorkshire at the time, about starting his own business. A decade on, Orchard is marking its 10th year in business and Eric, now Calderdale Council’s principal officer for enterprise support, has been to Buckingham Palace and received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion. “It has been wonderful to observe Gareth’s progress and follow the remarkable growth of his business, which is now a major employer in the region,” said Eric, who was presented with an engraved crystal chalice and a Grant of Appointment by Business Secretary Vince Cable at a special ceremony in Westminster followed by a reception at the palace in July. “Gareth’s is an amazing success story and I am pleased that he continues to base his business here in Calderdale and contribute to the local community in so many ways.” Eric had regular meetings with Gareth in the early days and recalls that he very quickly recognised that Gareth had all of the essential knowledge, experience and personal attributes to create a successful business. “He was ambitious and confident, although understandably cautious as he had never been self-employed before, but he took my advice about networking with local businesses and this is where he really shone,” Eric said. “His strength was in building relationships and I believe this is still the case today. He worked diligently to research his industry and his market as he connected with people in Kirklees, Calderdale, Bradford and beyond.” Eric’s work at Calderdale Council involves offering advice, guidance and encouragement in self-employment. He believes that his own
■■ Gareth Henderson (left), of Orchard Energy, and award-winning business adviser Eric Binns
career history across many business sectors – being self-employed and experiencing redundancy four times in 14 years – has helped him to empathise and offer appropriate support to others through difficult times. “Many people have lost their jobs over the past few years as a result of the recession and a lot of them had never considered working for themselves,” said Eric. “It has been extremely rewarding to show those people that as well as employment and unemployment there is another way – self-employment. “The advice offered by Calderdale Council is free and available to everyone and I never turn anyone away. I feel very fortunate to have a job that I enjoy so much and success stories like Gareth’s make it even more worthwhile.” Gareth said Orchard, which now employs more than 90 people across the UK, had gone into its 10th year “on a high”. He said: “This has been a landmark year for Orchard Energy in terms of growth, profile and strategic positioning. We have enjoyed record sales, signing 356 new clients in the past 12 months, and have created new jobs at
all levels of the business, appointing a senior management team to drive the business forward. “As we look ahead, we are preparing to open another base in Northampton in addition to our existing regional offices in Newcastle, Glasgow and Bristol to enable us to fulfil our aim to be within easy reach of all our clients to facilitate regular face-to-face contact.” Gareth said Eric’s advice had been invaluable as he had prepared to become a business owner for the first time. “Eric supported me with practical advice and information as well as providing moral support in those first few years, which is hugely important for anyone starting out in business,” he said. “He is approachable, inspiring and knowledgeable and I am delighted that the gift he has for empowering entrepreneurs has been recognised with a Queen’s Award. “There is no doubt that his advice in those early days has helped Orchard Energy achieve the level of success it enjoys today as the business celebrates its 10th anniversary.”
Graduate sharing his knowledge
■■ Gareth Eyre, who is working with Stelram Engineering
A Huddersfield University graduate is playing a key role in a Government-backed project to ensure that a West Yorkshire company stays at the cutting edge of specialist engineering and expands its order book. Wakefield-based Stelram Engineering Ltd designs and manufactures bespoke machinery for production lines. It has provided highly-specialised equipment and automated systems for a wide range of companies in sectors that include car manufacture, food and drink production and consumer goods. To increase its capacity, it has embarked on strategies to increase standardisation and “mass customisation” so that
designers working on bespoke projects will utilise standard components and designs as far as possible. The firm has embarked on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with the university. Gareth Eyre, who graduated in 2013 with First Class Honours in motorsport technology, has been appointed KTP associate. He is supervised by Dr Simon Barrans, reader in turbocharger engineering at the Turbocharger Research Institute, based at the university. For the next two years, until the completion of the KTP, Mr Eyre will spend most of his time at Stelram, where he previously worked for a short spell as a designer.
Part of his task will be to help compile “The Stelram Bible” which will include a procedure system and repository of standard components for designers to use in their bespoke projects. Mr Eyre is also undertaking postgraduate study leading to a Master’s degree in mechanical engineering. The KTP also draws on the expertise of Dr Iain Reid, a senior lecturer in operations management at the university. A qualified engineer, Dr Reid has also researched and written on the subject of “agile manufacturing”, which demonstrates how companies can become more robust .