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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Major names join university scheme
HUDDERSFIELD University is building on its reputation as a UK pioneer for degrees in transport, logistics and supply chain management. Now the university – in partnership with a group of leading companies – has announced a new sponsorship scheme designed to ensure that greater numbers of top-class students are attracted to a subject that is often under-appreciated, but acknowledged to be a vital element in the health of the economy and which offers excellent career opportunities. Representatives of 23 companies – including major manufacturers and supermarket giants – attended an event at the university’s 3M Buckley Innovation Centre to launch the Supply Chain Sponsorship Scheme. The scheme is designed to ensure that larger numbers of high calibre UK students are attracted to the industry. It results from an initiative by leading firms in the sector, including BiS Henderson, a leader in supply chain recruitment in both the private and public sectors; logistics companies Wincanton, Unipart Logistics and Lloyd Fraser; and manufacturer Premier Foods. Also involved are major names including Arla, Asda, ASOS, Clipper , Coca Cola, Cummins, DHL, J Sainsburys, Jigsaw, John Lewis, Morrisons, Network Rail, PZ Cussons, Scala Consulting, and Tesco. These companies have come together to form the Novus Trust to manage the scheme through the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport. Paul Brooks, chairman of skills for logistics and sales director at Unipart, said: “The industry requires a new way
■ DRIVING FORCE: Huddersfield University's David Leach (left) with (from left) colleagues Dr Nick Hubbard, head for division of Logistics, Transport & Tourism; associate dean of The Business School Prof Colin Bamford ; Andy Kaye, chief executive of BiS Henderson; Neil McConchie, managing director, Lloyd Fraser; Chris Chaplin, customer services and logistics director for grocery at Premier Foods; and Steve Agg, chief executive, Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport
to attract talent. We’ve got some brilliant people across our industry and adding to this, the Novus Trust and the University of Huddersfield will create a long-term sustainable difference to our pipeline of leadership talent.” Students with good A-level results will be eligible to study for a four-year logistics and supply chain management degree at the university while receiving the backing and mentorship of a sponsoring company, which then guarantees them employment after graduation. Leading the scheme for the university has been senior lecturer David
Leach and he was delighted to have the opportunity to work with Novus on the initiative. “We have a shared mission to increase both the quality and quantity of young people choosing to study and work in this vital field,” he said. “The demand for our graduates has always significantly outstripped the supply of young people choosing to study the subject. The Novus scheme is a great way for industry and the university sector to work together to encourage more talented young people in to the industry. “Increased university fees mean that
students are now expected to make an enormous investment in their university education. The offer of guaranteed employment at the end of the programme will enable young people to study in this area, confident that they will earn a return on their investment.” The first degree in transport and distribution – as the subject was initially known – was established in the early 1980s at Huddersfield. It has been a sector-leading course ever since, attracting large numbers of overseas as well as UK students. One of the key components of the programme, from the very outset, has been relevant, industry-focused content within our courses. This now goes hand-in-hand with the concept behind the new scheme, where Novus partners will ensure that the provision is even more closely aligned to industry requirements and ensure that graduates are able to make an immediate contribution to their employers. “Students will benefit from guidance from industry professionals throughout the degree programme,” said Mr Leach. “Short and long placements, together with industry-led sessions, will enrich the learning experience and ensure that students develop the personal, professional and technical skills needed to succeed in the workplace.” University vice-chancellor Prof Bob Cryan said: “It will ensure that participant companies effectively switch on a production line of new talent. “The students who are accepted on to the scheme will be in an enviable situation, benefiting not only from their degree studies but also from the mentorship and placements provided by their sponsor companies.”
INSIDE College project A SCHEME to bring local businesses and talented students together through an apprenticeship scheme “that really works” has been launched in Huddersfield. Shelley College has set up the Entice Project to help generate more work opportunities.
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Patrick’s on board A CIVIL engineering firm with offices in Huddersfield has made a key appointment. Patrick Parsons, which has offices at Edgerton, had recruited geoenvironmental expert Dr Steve Black as principal engineer responsible for areas including technical support and staff development.
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Firms urged to bid for training funds KIRKLEES businesses have been urged to follow the lead of a top Huddersfield company and bid for a share of up to £240m towards tailored training programmes that address their specific skills needs. The Government’s Employer Ownership Pilot has already committed about £90m and leveraged £115m from c o m p a n i e s i n c l u d i n g S i e m e n s, AkzoNobel and AJ Woods Engineering. Projects range from helping young people into work by delivering pre-employment training to extending apprenticeships and training to supply chains. Applications are now open for the second round and will close on March 28. Companies to benefit from the first round of funding included Huddersfield’s award-winning Textile Centre of Excellence, which secured more than £2m funding for an ambitious training programme to help the industry maintain its reputation for high quality textiles and clothing – and nurture the next generation of skilled employees. The programme was one of only 40 projects to win approval in the first round of the EOP initiative designed to put industry at the forefront of skills
training. Some 40 textile companies are pumping £2.8m into the TCE-led programme which will be matched pound-for-pound by the Government. The TCE bid aims to recruit and train 185 apprentices, offer 1,300 training places and engage with schools to increase awareness of careers in the textile sector. Unveiling the second round of bids, Skills Minister Matthew Hancock said: “For British businesses to succeed and compete in the global race, they need a highly-skilled workforce that can meet the challenges of the future. “With applications for round two now open, I would urge businesses – particularly small companies – to consider how the fund can help them grow, from creating new apprenticeship proCHALLENGE: Skills Minister grammes to setting up specialist train- ■ Matthew Hancock ing academies.” The call was echoed by Dave Dalton, chief executive of British Glass, which their successful bids. “We look forward to applying along received round one funding to set up a with our like-minded partners so we new Glass Academy. He said: “We are delighted that EOP might build the Glass Academy into a round two will enable more initiatives real force for learning now and in the such as The Glass Academy to flourish future.” – as well as providing round one bidBAE Systems, which is using EOP ders with the opportunity to build on funding to train up to 50 apprentices
for companies in its North West supply chain, has announced that MSM Aerospace Fabricators has become the first company to sign up to the scheme. The Manchester-based company has hired two BAE Systems-trained apprentices who will start in September. Charlie Mayfield, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership and the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, which administers EOP, said: “This is a major opportunity for responsible and ambitious employers to step up and get the training they need for long-term growth. I would urge businesses of all sizes, across all sectors, to get involved.” Total government investment in EOP for rounds one and two is £340m. Application forms and guidance for ro u n d t wo c a n b e fo u n d at www.ukces.org.uk. EOP was launched in November, 2011, with joint funding from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department for Education. It routes public investment directly to employers so they can design and deliver more flexible training packages.
Autonomy under investigation
Tech firms best-placed
THE accounting watchdog has opened an investigation into the software firm accused of misleading investors prior to its multi-billion dollar takeover by American giant Hewlett-Packard. The Financial Reporting Council will examine Cambridge-based Autonomy’s books in the period between January, 2009, and June
YORKSHIRE companies looking to raise finance from equity markets could find 2013 to be a good year, according to business advisory firm Deloitte. The firm said recent gains in the stock market and improved sentiment around prospects for China and Europe – combined with the US hav-
2011 – three months before it was bought by the US firm in a £7.1bn deal. HP wrote off £5.1bn from quarterly earnings, most of it linked to accusations of “serious accounting improprieties, misrepresentation and disclosure failures” at Autonomy.
‘Pay myth exploded’
ing stepped back from the fiscal cliff – meant there was a more positive environment for firms thinking about an initial public offering. Deloitte partner Rob Seldon said the technology sector and firms looking to expand aggressively into international markets were particularly attractive to equity investors.
A NEW report claims that justifications for high pay among UK chief executives is a “self-serving myth”. A study of international moves among the world’s top companies by the High Pay Centre claims to explode the notion that huge financial incentives are a must to keep talent in the UK. It found that fewer than 1% of company chief executives are poached from overseas – and most are promoted from within the company. Research among hundreds of leading international firms showed that only four chief executives out of 489 were poached while working for another company in a foreign country – just 0.8% of total appointments. Four out of five chief executive appointments in the world’s largest companies are internal promotions, said the report. Director of the High Pay Centre, Deborah Hargreaves, said: “The global talent pool is, in fact, a drop in the ocean. “These findings debunk the myth about internationally mobile chief executives flying around the world for new roles. “This is one of the reasons for the sharp rises in executive pay in the past decade.” Chuka Umunna, Shadow Business Secretary, said: “Excessive pay in the boardroom is bad for business, bad for our economy and bad for society.”
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £39.39 -0.05 Gannett 1241.54 -2.87 Hess Corp £42.44 -0.56 Microsoft 1768.99 +10.85 Motors Liquidation 47.86 Wal-Mart Stores £45.35 -0.26 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Avon Rbbr 4171/2 -21/2 BAE Systems 3361/2 +1/4 1 Rolls-Royce 967 /2 -81/2 AIM Brady Plc 96 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 2577/8 +23/8 BANKS Barclays 3011/2 +27/8 HSBC 7181/4 +15/8 3 Lloyds Banking Gp 52 /4 1 Ryl Scotland 340 /4 +11/4 Stan Chart 1704 +10 BEVERAGES Diageo 1877 -101/2 SABMiller £317/8 CHEMICALS Croda £245/8 Elementis 98 2211/8 +11/8 Johnsn Mat £223/4 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2725/8 +2 Costain 2661/2 +11/2 ELECTRICITY
Drax Gp 6121/2 -2 SSE 1405 +4 ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Laird 2313/8 +13/8 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 4061/4 +2 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 2671/8 +3/8 Cable & Wireless 405/8 Comm Colt Group 1137/8 -3/4 KCOM 777/8 +7/8 Talktalk Telecom 254 -3/4 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS Morrison W 2561/8 +6 Sainsbury 3335/8 +17/8 7 Tesco 367 /8 +51/4 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 1754 -5 Tate Lyle 7881/2 -5 1 Unilever £25 /4 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 342 +17/8 National Grid 691 +1 Pennon Grp 678 Severn 1595 +6 United Utils 728 +1/2 GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 2821/8 +11/2 ICAP 3573/4 +27/8 London StockExch 1253 -7 Man Group 1003/4 +27/8 Provident Financial 1477 +22
Schroders 1973 -1 Schroders NV 1562 -10 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS REXAM 455 -25/8 Smiths Grp 1214 -7 GENERAL RETAILERS Ashley L 281/2 Carphone Whse 211 -21/4 Dixons Retail 271/4 -3/8 3 Home Retail 127 /4 -5/8 3 Inchcape 490 /4 -11/4 Kingfisher 2787/8 -1/4 M&S 3823/4 +3/4 Mothercare 303 -51/2 Next £407/8 -3/8 1 WH Smith 690 /2 +1/2 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 708 -11/2 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 773/4 +3/4 Barrat Dev 222 -41/8 Persimmon 854 -91/2 Reckitt Benckiser £423/8 5 Taylor Wimpey 73 /8 -11/2 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING IMI 1186 -11 INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 2701/4 +11/2 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BBA Aviation 2323/8 +11/8 LIFE INSURANCE Aviva 3621/4 +51/4
1493/4 +3/4 1931/4 +11/4 939 +81/2 2563/4 +13/8 336 +3/4 MEDIA BSkyB 838 +5 +91/2 D Mail Tst 6501/2 3 HIBU /8 ITV 1155/8 -11/4 Johnston Press 13 -1/4 Pearson 1209 +5 1 -11/2 Reed Elsevier 693 /2 STV Group 1211/2 +1/4 Trinity Mirror 106 -41/2 Utd Business 750 UTV 146 +2 WPP 1011 -8 MINING Anglo American 19711/2 -1 Antofagasta 1133 +1 BHP Billiton £215/8 Eurasian Natural 3953/4 +181/8 Res Fresnillo 1660 Kazakhmys 753 +71/2 Lonmin 379 +63/8 Rio Tinto £361/2 VEDANTA 1274 +2 RESOURCES 1 Xstrata 1160 /2 +51/2 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES Inmarsat 646 -51/2 Vodafone Group 1735/8 -1/4 NONLIFE INSURANCE Lgl & Gen Old Mutual Prudential Resolution Standard Life
Local shares Carclo Marshalls National Grid Weir Gp
448 1081/8 691 £207/8
+21/2 +1/8 +1 -1/4
closed at at FTSE closed
6277.06 Up 13.13 Admiral Grp 1238 +10 +5/8 RSA Insurance Gp 1313/8 OIL & GAS PRODUCERS BG 11141/2 +9 BP 4543/4 -7/8 Cairn Energy 289 +23/4 Royal Dutch Shell A £211/2 +1/4 Royal Dutch Shell B £22 +1/8 5 Total £32 /8 -1/4 Tullow Oil 1170 -6 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES AMEC 1102 +1 Petrofac 1634 -4 Wood Gp(J) 808 -10 PERSONAL GOODS
Burberry Gp 1345 -20 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £301/8 +1/8 GlaxoSmithK 101/2 Shire £21 REAL ESTATE Brit Land 5701/2 +3 Captl Shop Cent 3521/4 +3/8 Hamrsn 4757/8 -21/2 Land Secs 817 +41/2 SEGRO 2503/8 +3/4 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Invensys 342 -31/4 Sage Group 3343/8 +33/4 SUPPORT SERVICES Berendsen 6131/2 -61/2 Bunzl 1153 +12 Capita 810 +2 De La Rue 9611/2 -41/2 Electrocomp 2535/8 -11/2 Experian 1080 -16 G4S 2801/4 +7/8 Hays 93 +1/2 Homeserve 2405/8 +31/8 Menzies J 727 -28 Rentokil 891/2 -5/8 Smiths News 172 +31/2 3 Wolseley £29 /8 -1/4 IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs 9031/2 -151/2 Spirent Comms 1651/2 -1/4 TOBACCO Br Am Tob £327/8 +1/8
Imperial Tobacco
£23 TOURIST RATES
LEISURE & HOTELS Bwin.Party Digital Carnival Compass Grp easyJet Enterprise Inns FirstGroup Go-Ahead Gp Greene King Intercontl Htls Intl Cons Airl Ladbrokes Mitchells & Butlers Natl Express Rank Org Stagecoach Group TUI Travel Whitbread
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139 /8 £257/8 777 970 1045/8 193 1368 7011/2 1896 2161/8 2201/2 325 2111/2 1521/4 3013/4 3113/4 £261/2
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FTSE 100
INDEX 6277.06
+13.13
FTSE 250
INDEX 13373.63
-1.62
Tourists going abroad can expect the following rates for sterling: Australia...................... 1.45 dollars Bangladesh................. 116.14 taka Brazil.............................. 2.77 reals Canada....................... 1.51 dollars China ............................. 8.78 yuan Czech Republic ...... 27.33 korunas Denmark....................... 8.36 krone Euro............................... 1.13 euro Hong Kong................ 11.60 dollars Hungary................... 307.03 forints India.......................... 74.58 rupees Japan........................... 138.93 yen Mexico ....................... 17.92 pesos New Zealand .............. 1.76 dollars Norway ......................... 8.32 krone Pakistan.................. 145.49 rupees Philippines ................. 54.95 pesos South Africa................. 13.12 rand South Korea.............. 1505.00 won Sri Lanka ................ 187.81 rupees Sweden......................... 9.69 krona Switzerland.................. 1.38 francs Taiwan ...................... 40.93 dollars Turkey....................... 2.63 new lira USA ............................ 1.51 dollars
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS HEATHER Jones says too many employers in small businesses have a problem dealing with “human resources”. And the Birstall-based owner of HR services firm Lamont Jones knows that dealing with staff in the wrong way can cost a company dear. “Some employers recognise their staff as a ‘resource’ but fail to appreciate the ‘human’ side,” she says. “Quite a lot of small employers are very good at running their companies, but have never been involved in a grievance procedure or litigation. They need to make sure their HR is being looked after properly.” Heather, who hails from Southport but has lived in Birstall for a number of years, set up Lamont Jones 10 years ago. She studied law at Durham University, but moved to Yorkshire and worked in banking with roles in the banks’ legal departments. “It was very boring,” she admits. “I thought it would be more exciting to work in HR. I started exploring the idea and over the years I had a number of different jobs which didn’t have ‘HR’ in the title, but which involved being responsible for groups of people. “My legal knowledge proved very important. HR is not just about dealing with things when things go wrong – it’s about trying to stop things going wrong in the first place and finding ways to bring out the best in your staff. “You have to get the right people, manage them in the right way and sort problems out when they occur.” Heather’s first significant role with ‘HR’ in the job title was as regional HR manager for a leading bank. She was shocked to learn on taking the job that nobody in the HR department had ever set foot in a bank branch. “The first thing I did was to send them out to the branches to see how the manager coped,” she says. “They had to see things at the ‘coal face’ and then work to improve the HR skills of the branch managers.” It was those experiences that set Heather to thinking about running her own HR business – to help smaller employers without the luxury of an in-house HR team to manage their employees better. She took redundancy from the bank, which gave her some money to set up Ingham Jones in partnership with another businesswoman. When her business partner
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Look after your staff! decided to leave – in amicable circumstances – Heather bought her out and renamed the firm Lamont Jones. The business started in offices above a flower shop in Cleckheaton before moving to mill premises at Carlinghow. The firm transferred to more suitable accommodation at the Titan Centre, Bradford Road, Birstall four years ago – since when it has expanded from one office to occupy three rooms. The facilities include a training room for clients to attend HR-related courses, although Heather and her seven-strong team also visit clients on their own premises. “I wanted nice premises for the staff,” she says. “They are in here a lot of the time and it has to be a pleasant environment. It provides the right image for clients – and if an HR consultancy cannot provide the right working environment for its own staff that doesn’t look good!” Heather sympathises with small employers who feel daunted by the issues that can arise dealing with employees. “We provide everything that an in-house HR department would provide for small to medium-sized businesses,” she says. “Our clients range from firms employing five people to companies with 350 staff. We are very hands-on. We do everything
■ TEAM LEADER: Heather Jones (front) with collagues Kristian Grogan, Julie Binnington and Joanne Gittins at the offices of Lamont Jones, Bradford Road, Birstall
from recruitment to redundancy and we can represent employers at tribunals. We also have a telephone helpline for employers to ask advice. “At present, some employers are needing help with the redundancy process. We have also seen a shift in terms of health and safety with the onset of the ‘no-win no-fee’ lawyers, which some employers find scary. “A lot of employers take fright if they get a solicitor’s letter. Smaller employers don’t have the level of knowledge necessary to respond. We can help them get things in perspective.” Says Heather: “We have been busy during the recession because of the ‘no-win no-fee’ lawyers and discrimination claims following dismissal.” On a more positive note, Lamont Jones has been helping a number of companies to recruit staff. “If they get the right person in the first place, they won’t have problems further down the line,” says Heather. She also draws on her own experience as an employer. “When you start running a business, you don’t know how to go about it to start with,” she says. “I don’t think just anyone can run a business. You have to have a certain temperament and a vision. You have to take a leap of faith and really believe in yourself. “I am a passionate believer that HR can affect the bottom line in a positive way – if it is done right. Most people cannot grow their business without employing people and HR is
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Heather Jones
really important. It’s either going to make or break your business, so you have to manage it correctly.” And there’s no question Heather is happy that she made the right choice of career. “I like the diversity of the work,” she says. “One day, I can be involved in training and the next I can be helping defend a client at a tribunal. The work is very varied and suits my personality. “I am growing the business. My job is to go out and get the clients.” However, Heather believes in the importance of getting away from the office to recharge the batteries.Having dependable staff means she no longer worries about being away. “There’s a qualified HR person on hand all the time,” she says. “Ninety-five per cent of the time we can answer an employer’s question on the first phone call. “When I call the office, I know the staff are coping all right without me!” Heather and her family keep four dogs, which means lots of walks. Holidays are also important, she adds. “I try to adopt Richard Branson’s model. He said that you should work hard for three weeks and take the fourth week off. My husband and I try to get away every month, even if it’s only for a weekend. “For the first time in 10 years, we are going to have a foreign holiday this year. We plan to visit the USA, although we haven’t worked out the itinerary.”
HENRYK ZIENTEK
Role: Owner Age: 55 Family: Married to Stuart with twins Helen and Emma, 25, and Louise, 20 Car: Mini Holidays: For the first time in 10 years we are having a foreign holiday and going to the USA First job: Working in a fish and chip shop in Southport. I still know how to wrap them properly in newspaper! Best thing about job: I love running the business and the challenges it brings Worst thing about job: Having to deal with sensitive issues. Some of the circumstances employees find themselves in can be upsetting Business tip: You have to believe in yourself. There will be days when you doubt your ability to succeed, but you have to say ‘I’m good at what do’ and get on with it!
Lamont Jones Work: HR services Site: Birstall Employees: 7 Phone: 01924 441032 Email: info@lamont jones,co.uk Website: www.lamont jones.co.uk
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KIRKLEES BUSIN
More in store from Google
espite an ever increasing numD ber of ways to find a website, Google’s organic index still
Centurion joins company ranks A CHARTERED accountancy firm based in Kirklees has added a specialist credit control and debt recovery division to its range of services that is specifically designed to appeal to businesses, banks and finance firms. Clough & Company, based at Cleckheaton, has set up Centurion Collections as part of the firm’s Clough Corporate Solutions corporate recovery and insolvency arm. Services on offer include outsourced credit control, debt recovery, debt verification as well as audit and collectability reviews. Chris Wood (pictured), head of Clough Corporate Solutions, said: “At the moment a lot of businesses are owed money outside their credit terms and as a result Centurion Collections is immediately proving successful with our existing clients and is already beginning to attract new customers where our fresh independent approach is having a very positive effect. “By outsourcing credit control, businesses can greatly improve their cash flow and working capital. “We look at each client individually and create bespoke action paths for each case depending on the debt age, type and criteria. “Generally, involving a third party to pursue overdue debts results in debtors paying up sooner and also emphasises that a business won’t tolerate its payment terms being abused.”
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accounts for more than 65% of all search traffic. This means that website owners occupying prime Google positions still enjoy the most cost-effective traffic there is. G o og l e r at e s web s i t e s u s i n g algorithms that now take an estimated two thousand ranking factors into account. These factors are regularly updated as the search engine looks to deliver ever more accurate results to the surfer. Though Google regularly update their algorithms, there have been two major introductions over the past two years. I n 2 0 1 1 G o og l e re l e a s e d a n algorithm called ‘Panda’ that was designed to emulate a manual review of your website quality and compare this against your websites’ user engagement. This new website scoring mechanism updates every four to six weeks and has been attributed to one of the major causes of turbulence within website rankings over the past two years. Last year Google released the ‘Penguin’ algorithm and like Panda, every
DIGITAL DIRECTION
Andrew Firth month or so a new variation is released. Penguin is concerned with the over-optimisation of websites – this means that websites that have been designed to suit what the search engines are looking for are being penalised if they have gone too far, i.e. they appear to be un-naturally written and have excessive levels of non-variant links coming into them. Website owners occupying prime search engine real estate get used to the low-cost visitor traffic gained from a high ranking; it is easy to see how complacency can set in. With Google reportedly making around five hundred algorithm changes each year (a level that has been increasing over the last two years) they are certainly keeping both website owners and search engine optimisation companies on their toes. For instance on January 17, 2013, Google released what is now widely considered to be a major Penguin refresh. The reason nobody knows for sure is
that Google don’t generally advise what they are doing, website owners have to work out what’s changed and why they are being affected. As a result of this recent update, many websites that had previously occupied enhanced positions dropped and other websites took their place within the rankings. As with any update, when the dust settles, positions stabilise and everyone goes back to work to try and recover, or indeed maintain their new found elevation. For the website owner who has lost ranking as the result of the update, it is important to remember that Google will always be looking to shake things up as their algorithms get smarter. Complacency with search engine positions is never a good thing; Google will always keep website owners on their toes as it strives to deliver the most natural search results to its users.
Andrew Firth is managing director of Ascensor Website Design & Digital Marketing
Bright start for bank staff A BANK has reported an encouraging start to the year at its Huddersfield office – following strong 2012 annual results for the bank in the UK. Handelsbanken said its latest group results confirmed its place among the 10 strongest banks in the world. The bank credited another successful year of growth to the loyalty of its local branch customers. The 141-year-old bank’s 2012 annual results revealed a 23% rise in lending to British customers during the fourth quarter against the same period in 2011. Business lending increased by 22% to £7.7bn while lending to personal banking customers rose by 27% to £2.8bn. UK customer deposits increased by 43% over the period to £3.1bn. The Huddersfield branch, run by a team of eight experienced bankers, is one of 148 British branches, stretching from Perth in Scotland to Portsmouth on the South Coast. Handelsbanken opened 29 new branches in 2012 as part of its long-term focus on customer satisfaction, prudent banking and cost efficiency. A spokesman said: “This local, customer-led approach has seen the
■ RESULTS: Huddersfield branch manager Tony Jones bank rated top for satisfaction and loyalty for the last four years in an independent annual survey of British banks’ personal and business
customers.” Worldwide, Handelsbanken has around 750 branches in 24 countries, employing over 11,000 staff. Tony Jones, manager of Handelsbanken’s Huddersfield branch based at Bradley, said: “The results further evidence our belief that long-term local relationships, without sales targets and staff incentives does work. We continue to increase our customer base with referrals from satisfied customers.” Anders Bouvin, Handelsbanken’s UK chief executive, said: “For us it’s not about how far or how fast we grow in the UK. Instead, it’s about ensuring every day that our branches are able to deliver the best possible service to their customers, based only on their individual needs.” Handelsbanken also reaffirmed its robust capital and liquidity positions and its low credit loss ratios, which have earned the Swedish-headquartered bank among the highest credit ratings of any international bank. The bank was recently judged one of the world’s 10 strongest banks for the second year running by financial information provider Bloomberg.
■ DIRECTION: Liz executive of the FIna Partnership
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Busy year in prospect EMPLOYER’S BRIEF Neil Wilson
N January 17, 2013, a numO ber of announcements were made by the Government
relating to the reform of employment law. These are explored in further detail below. With regard to unfair dismissal compensation, the compensatory award is currently capped at a particular level each year – with effect from February 1, 2013, at £74,200. The Government is proposing that, from summer, 2013, the unfair dismissal award will be capped at the lower of one year’s pay or the existing limit. The belief is that this will help manage employee’s expectations, create more certainty over the potential costs for employers and encourage early resolution of disputes. Turning to long-term sickness absence, the Department for Work and Pensions has announced that a health and work assessment and advisory service will be introduced in 2014. Importantly, for employees who are off sick for four weeks or more, there will be a state-funded assessment by occupational health professionals and case management assistance for those who require ongoing support to facilitate a return to work. The new medical certificates will also be amended (possibly with effect from March 2013) placing more emphasis on the need to assess employee’s health conditions in order to proactively manage sickness absence. Since 2006, the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations have applied to service provision changes. The Regulations previously only
applied to business transfers but the 2006 legislation, for the first time, covered situations where a particular contract or service was transferred in, out or between providers. This aspect of the Regulations goes far beyond the minimum required by the overarching European Directive and has caused widespread criticism from businesses. It is proposed that the service provision change provisions will be repealed. With regard to business transfers, it is proposed that employers will have greater flexibility in changing terms and conditions of employment and, if necessary and permitted, carry out redundancy exercises prior to a transfer taking place. Finally, the Government has launched a consultation on proposals for mandatory pre-claim conciliation in the hope that this will drastically reduce the number of claims submitted to the Employment Tribunal. It is hoped that prospective claimants will complete an early conciliation form and a conciliator appointed by ACAS will contact both parties, with the respondent having the option of whether or not to participate in conciliation. If participation is agreed, conciliation will take place for one calendar month which can be expanded by a further two weeks to facilitate settlement. The raft of measures announced will be subject to some amendment before their implementation, but it does mean that 2013 will certainly be a busy year for reducing employment regulation.
Neil Wilson is an employment lawyer at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors
Financial focus KIRKLEES businesses are invited to find out about key financial issues affecting them at a seminar later this month. Online payroll reporting, automatic enrolment pension schemes for employees and harsher PAYE/NI penalties from HM Revenue & Customs are among topics in the spotlight at the
event hosted by Sage, Eastwood & Partners Financial Services and Wheawill & Sudworth. The event will be held from 10am to noon on February 27 at the Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, Huddersfield. Email helen.hilton@wheawills.co.uk or phone 01484 423691.
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Ten tips for manufacturers KIRKLEES manufacturers have been urged to make 2013 “a year of action”. The Manufacturing Advisory Service is urging manufacturers across the district to go for growth in 2013 – and has released a 10-point action plan to help them boost efficiencies, reduce waste and increase sales. Having spent the last decade assisting thousands of companies across the country, the business support organisation believes this year could be an ideal opportunity for firms to expand both at home and overseas. MAS, which is funded by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, has tapped into its team of specialist advisers to come up with a range of useful tips, which focus on starting the lean journey, examining your customers, developing new ideas and cultivating your supply chain. MAS area director Martin Coates said: “The recent economic data suggests an upturn in the sector and – with exchange rates still favouring English exporters – all the conditions are there for our manufacturers to expand. “Our role is to provide on-the-ground support to Huddersfield companies through our team of advisers. “This could be through simple advice and guidance from our helpline (0845 658 9600), a free manufacturing review or by attending our workshops that look to tackle key issues affecting industry.” He said: “We also have funding available to deliver in-depth improvement projects that shape strategy, create new products, reduce waste and strengthen supply chains.” The MAS 10-point action plan says:
● Decide on your company’s key objectives – Decide on your strategy (be it growth or survival) and concentrate on three or four key objectives for 2013 ● If you haven’t started the lean journey, do it now – You can’t afford unnecessary bottlenecks and inefficient processes. Strip out any inefficiencies and free up cash/resources for new investment ● Don’t overlook your office processes – 60% of potential inefficiencies are found in office and administration processes rather than production ● Review your sales and marketing strategy – What are the most successful ways in which your business attracts and wins new business? ● Examine your customers – Where do your orders currently come from and what’s preventing you from reaching new markets? ● Develop your new ideas – What more could you do with your existing skills and capabilities? ● Work pro-actively with your supply chain – Work together to reduce bottlenecks that influence the end-user ● Keep service levels high – Retaining your client base is crucial and word-of-mouth marketing is the most powerful method there is ● Keep internal communications fluid – Often overlooked, this is one of the most crucial elements to keeping your business strategy on track ● Raise your profile – Share your good news stories with clients, suppliers, industry bodies and via social media. Visit www.mymas.org or phone 0845 6589600
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
■ TOWN CENTRE: Part of the Media Centre in Huddersfield, which is now home to My Management Accountant
Media Centre is their new home A HUDDERSFIELD company has moved to new offices in the town. My Management Accountant, which is now based at The Media Centre in Northumberland Street, offers a range of financial management tools to ensure individual business affairs are conducted and managed in the most efficient, cost effective, and legally compliant manner. Its core accounting services include management accounts, profit improvement, budgets and forecasts, business plans, key performance indicators, cash flow management and compliance. The company, which was previously based in Kirkburton, also delivers solutions for bookkeeping, payroll, human resources and insolvency issues. “After four years of development, I felt this was definitely the time to establish a stronger base for the company,” said managing director Martin Bown. “MMA’s client base is growing and as the business continues to expand I will be looking to grow the team so bigger office space will be vital to our development.” Mr Brown said: “I shall be introducing a new brand, My Finance Director, for companies needing more strategic guidance and support. And another new development, My Finance Team, will offer a fully outsourced finance team service.”
property
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Retail malls top of shopping list COMMERCIAL property investment transactions doubled across Yorkshire during 2012, figures have revealed. And the upsurge has been underpinned by the leisure and retail market. The total value of commercial property investment transactions in the region last year totalled £1.4bn compared with £732m in 2011, according to latest research by Lambert Smith Hampton. The retail and leisure sector accounted for more 78% of the market at £1.12bn. However, this was largely due to Norges Bank Investment Management’s purchase of a 50% stake in Meadowhall shopping centre at Sheffield for £762.5m – more than the total volume transacted across the whole of Yorkshire during 2011. Abid Jaffry, LSH’s northern head of capital markets, said: “This is the first time the retail and leisure sector has recorded such a high investment volume across Yorkshire. “This is indicative of market trends, which sees spikes in levels as a result of very large, single transactions. “The sector has therefore proved the asset class of choice, continuing to attract investment in spite of the sluggish conditions witnessed by both the industrial and office sectors.” Countering this, office investment across Yorkshire fell by 44% in 2012 to £133m, in comparison with 2011 (£133m), representing just 9% of the market. Activity in the industrial and logistics sector also remained low throughout 2012 (£93.2m), with a 41% drop on 2011, representing just 7% of the market. Nationally, investment in London accounted for more than half of the total market (£30.3bn) in 2012 at £17.4bn. Overall commercial property investment remained flat with a mere 1% increase on 2011’s total of £29.9bn. Ezra Nahome, LSH chief executive, said: “Throughout the year,. London has continued to attract investment, particularly from overseas investors in search of a safe haven. “In fact, prime Central London offices alone
■ STAR BUY: Meadowhall was the subject of a £762.5m deal which helped boost investment figures for Yorkshire
accounted for almost 40% of the transactional market in 2012. “If London was the top location for investment, then the office sector was the asset class of choice; more than £15bn was invested in UK offices last year – a 24% increase in comparison to 2011.” Countering this, retail investment UK-wide fell by 40% in 2012 in comparison with 2011. The one sub-sector of the retail market to perform strongly was the supermarkets, where over £1.1bn of deals were recorded at a weighted average yield below 5%. Investment in the UK industrial market also remained low throughout 2012 with a 40% drop on 2011. That aggregate figure hides the underlying trend though, which was that investment levels for standard multi-let industrial units and parks remained level and investment volumes for distribution warehouses fell by 60%.
Overseas buyers were net-investors to the tune of £7.7bn, making them the only major net-investors in UK commercial property in 2012. In response to the strong demand from overseas investors, the major UK investors were net-sellers in 2012. Mr Nahome said: “UK investors were active sellers because they were either looking to capitalise on strong demand for their prime assets or had their activities curtailed by a lack of debt; unattractive pricing levels; or worries regarding the overall state of the market.” The key investment trends that emerged in 2012 will persist throughout much of 2013, said the report. Overseas investors will continue to seek trophy assets in Central London, although transaction volumes could be limited by the availability of prime assets.
NewBuy having positive effect THE news that all the lenders supporting the 95% Government-backed NewBuy scheme will now accept part-exchange deals with the mortgage should offer a huge boost to the housing market in Yorkshire, claims a leading housebuilder. And it should see even more of the county’s homeowners moving up the property ladder in the next few months, according to Bovis director Kevin Wilkins. Bovis Homes, which has a development at Mirfield, is one of the few housebuilders in the country to be signed up with all six of the national lenders – Halifax, Barclays (Woolwich), Nationwide Building Society, RBS (NatWest), Aldermore Bank and Santander (who were the first to accept part exchange with NewBuy). Mr Wilkins expects the move to open up the market for those who have been struggling to sell their old home, while still aspiring to get a new place with a low-deposit mortgage.
■ FLAGGED UP: Bovis Homes has welcomed the impct of the NewBuy scheme
“The NewBuy mortgage has already helped a number of our customers make their dream move into a Bovis Home – especially first-time buyers,” said Mr Wilkins.
“It is now set to have an even bigger impact as more existing homeowners discover the advantages of NewBuy now that all the lenders involved have agreed to allow part exchange with the mortgage.” The housebuilder’s Home Exchange has proved to be a popular scheme with owner occupiers because it offers buyers a degree of certainty as well as a quick and efficient move. There is no chain and therefore no reliance on others being able to get their properties sold, while there is the significant benefit of saving thousands of pounds on estate agents’ fees. “With interest rates still at historically low levels and further money to be saved by using Home Exchange, the next few months promise to be a great time to buy,” said Mr Wilkins. “The NewBuy-Home Exchange partnership could really make the difference to some buyers who thought a move was out of their reach at the moment.”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
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Hotels sector healthy despite George’s woes THE demise of Huddersfield’s historic George Hotel has hit the headlines. But a property agency has stressed that the picture is not all doom and gloom for the hotels sector. Only 26% of UK hotel sales in 2012 were “distressed” transactions, according to research by Colliers International Hotels. The vast majority of deals involved new entrants to the market or expansion by existing hoteliers, it was claimed. The research by the specialist hotels team analysed buyer and seller sentiment and challenged the widely held belief that most hotels were sold by owners in a position of distress – with just 26% of deals emanating from administration or receivership. Julian Troup, head of Colliers International, Hotels, said: “Despite these extremely challenging times, we’re encouraged by the increase in the number of new buyers who saw the opportunity to invest in the hotel market after taking a long-term view on an improvement in real estate and recognising the immediacy of trading gains under their ownership. “Although there continue to be sellers that have to dispose of properties for financial or health reasons, this was surpassed by those who made the decision to sell for reasons such as retirement or a change of occupation.” The research also revealed that an encouraging 34% of buyers nationally were new entrants to the hotel market. Most of the remaining purchasers were existing hoteliers growing their portfolios or selling one hotel to acquire another or corporate buyers or sellers where the buyer planned a change of use.
Bumper offering for two-day sale CHARTERED surveyor Eddisons has attracted a massive 160 lots for its first two-day auction of the year. Tony Webber, of Eddisons, which has offices in Huddersfield, said: “This is a bumper catalogue to start our auction year. There is a wide selection of both residential and commercial lots, at guide prices to suit all budgets. “‘We look forward to building on the success of our 2012 auctions when we sold 787 lots, generating proceeds of over £60m.” Lots in the February catalogue include a residential development site in Holmfirth. The land next to 82, Woodhead Road, close to Holmfirth town centre, has outline planning consent for two detached properties. The guide price is £150,000 plus. Meanwhile in Cleckheaton, a vacant ground floor retail unit extending to 220sq ft is guided at £20 to 25,000. Elsewhere, a vacant ground floor retail unit in Mirfield extending to approximately 946sq ft has a guide price of £50,000 plus. The two-day sale takes place on February 21 at Leeds United Football Ground, Elland Road, Leeds and on February 26 at the Premier Inn, Trafford Park, Manchester.
The iconic George Hotel shut down and slumped into the hands of receivers a month ago. Colliers has been marketing the 60-bedroomed hotel following its sudden closure on January 2 and the agents have reported “lots of interest”. Last year, the hotels team at Colliers International sold 16 hotels in the Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and North East region with a combined value in excess of £26m. Peter Bean, director of hotels at the north office of Colliers International, said: “In our region, 50% of sales were on behalf of company administrators. These included the historic Judges Lodgings in York and the English Rose group sales of Wrea Head and Hackness Grange country house hotels and the Royal and Clifton hotels in Scarborough. “Six of the sales were to new entrants to the hotel industry, most of which were backed by bank lending – all of this activity demonstrating encouraging entrepreneurial and banking confidence.” In a forecast for the year ahead, Mr Troup added: “2013 will be similar to 2012 in terms of the level of activity and prices achieved. “There are still buyers out there with cash or those supported by bank funding. “We have also seen a marginal increase in private equity-backed interest, together with new to the market buyers who see the opportunity to acquire and run a hotel underpinned by the comfort of alternative use in the event of the hotel venture not being to their liking.” He concluded: “Both buyer and seller sentiment was similar to the previous year although
■ DEMISE: Efforts are under way to sell Huddersfield’s George Hotel
the banks, who are major influencers in our market, showed signs of accelerating the sales process whilst their colleagues in credit although remaining cautious did take a more realistic view on lending particularly to proven operators and better quality businesses.”
Despite the challenging trading conditions during 2012 Colliers International Hotels’ agency team sold 96 UK hotels which set Colliers International apart from all the competition in terms of the volume of hotel transactional activity concluded during the period.
Appointment brings a reunion A CIVIL engineering firm with offices in Huddersfield has made a key appointment. Patrick Parsons, which has offices at Edgerton, had recruited geoenvironmental expert Dr Steve Black as principal engineer responsible for providing technical support, staff development and identifying geoenvironmental and infrastructure design opportunities. Dr Black, who holds a PhD in applied geology, has more than 25 years of industry experience and has worked for a major site investigation firm and a number of high profile engineering consultancies. The move has seen him “return to his roots” with a mainstream multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy, following several years employed by a large brownfield regeneration company. In joining Patrick Parsons, Dr Black has been reunited with director Grant Richardson, with whom he worked for three years previously. Dr Black said: “When the opportunity came up to join Grant at Patrick Parsons I jumped at the chance. It is a vigorous and forward-looking company. “I hope to build up the team in the Huddersfield office and contribute to the company’s ongoing success. I’m looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.” Mr Richardson said: “Having worked with Steve in the past, I hugely appreciated his insight, knowledge, natural technical ability and the rapport he builds with clients and staff alike. He is ‘old school’ and in a very good way. “He has a degree of scrutiny and rigour that
■ CIVIL ACTION: Patrick Parsons director Grant Richardson (back) and new appointment Dr Steve Black just can’t be taught and is only gained through years of hands-on experience at the cutting edge of geoenvironmental assessment within multi-disciplinary engineering consultancies. “Steve massively bolsters our geoenvironmental capability, in particular in the residential development sector, where he has a
wealth of knowledge of complex contaminated brownfield sites assessment and remediation, and of tackling the issues that arise from the legacy of mine workings which riddle development land throughout northern Britain.” Established in 1964, Patrick Parsons has offices in Newcastle, Huddersfield and Chester.
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Rob Cheer & Rhys England
Stafflex
HUDDERSFIELD recruitment agency Stafflex has appointed two sales executives to support the company’s planned expansion. Rob Cheer (pictured top) had an early career in the Royal Navy before entering the recruitment profession almost 12 years ago. Since then, he has chalked up success in a number of employment sectors. Rhys England (also pictured) moved into recruitment in 2010 having enjoyed an early career in retail and direct sales, which included running his own business for a period of five years. Stafflex, which is based at Chapel Hill and supplies temporary and permanent staff to local industry, offices, engineering and education, has increased its workforce from two to 14 in the past 10 years. The company said it was keen to ensure that as sales increase, its high standard of customer service was maintained.
Hannah Mackenzie
Radcliffe Plant Hire A WOMAN who enjoyed a successful modelling career and running her own fashion businesses has switched from the catwalk to the world of construction. Hannah Mackenzie, who has sold vintage clothes at Huddersfield and Dewsbury markets, has joined Radcliffe Plant Hire, based at Leeds Road, Huddersfield. Company chairman John Radcliffe said, “We are an old company but as a business our life blood is in the ideas and energy that young people bring to us, and Hannah certainly hits the mark!” Ms Mackenzie said: “It’s lovely to be a part of the family at Radcliffe’s.”
Movers and shakers
Enticing offers!
A PROJECT to bring local businesses and talented students together through an apprenticeship scheme “that really works” has been launched in Huddersfield. Shelley College has set up the Entice Project to help generate more work opportunities for young people. Debbie Lumb, assistant principal and strategy team leader for the project, said: “Shelley College is passionate about building relationships and creating opportunities in the local community to benefit both students and businesses. “We understand that students must make the most of all opportunities available to them and this includes access to immediate work environments as well as encouraging continuing education. “We know that not all students wish to continue in further and higher education and that university does not appeal to all, providing a route to apprenticeships gives students a real alternative to forge a sustain- ■ COLLEGE DAYS: Representatives of local businesses and college staff join Kirklees councillor Jim Dodds (right) and Huddersfield Town ambassador Andy Booth (centre) at able career.” Under the scheme, apprentices earn a the launch of the Entice Project wage and work with experienced staff to gain job-specific skills designed around the create awareness of the scheme throughout Wellhouse Leisure has now got three real needs for employers. On a day-release the community. A bespoke website has been apprentices through the scheme – all from basis, they will also work towards nationally developed to showcase the students and Shelley College. businesses and help make a match. Camira Fabrics, with premises at recognised qualifications. An innovative “filtering” service offers a Meltham and Mirfield, has been one of the The project has the backing of many prominent local companies as well as many build-up of exposure of students to the first pilot businesses to run a taster day this small business enterprises. Several appren- work environment through taster days and year when 16 students visited – resulting in ticeship positions are already up and run- work experience and enables students and work placements for five during the Februning and many more are in the pipeline for business to understand each other well ary half-term and an open-ended placement before any apprenticeship position is for one lucky student. this year. Visit www.enticeproject.co.uk for more Events held at the college, such as Break- filled. Among firms involved, Shepley-based information fast and Brunch Meetings have helped to
She’s a legal eagle
Helen Place
Co-operative Bank THE Co-operative Bank has strengthened its team in Yorkshire with the appointment of a new specialist relationship manager for charities and social enterprises in the region. Helen Place (pictured) has been appointed to support the bank’s not-for-profit customers In Yorkshire and East Midlands. Ms Place has more than 20 years experience in banking, having held a number of relationship roles covering Yorkshire, the North East and Nottingham. Helen said: “The Co-operative Bank has a long-standing and close relationship with the sector and the two have shared aims to improve the lives for others in society. “The bank has a trusted reputation and places importance on strong relationships with managers who are totally dedicated to supporting charity and other not-for-profit customers through good and challenging times.” Ms Place will be based at the bank’s corporate banking centre in Leeds.
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LEGAL assistant Rozina Rehman, who works at Cleckheaton-based Howarths, has gained a Level 3 Diploma in Employment Law through distance learning from Oxford College. Ms Rehman (pictured) joined the company more than six years ago as a receptionist, but showed a keen interest in employment law and the work carried out by the legal team in advising and representing clients at the employment tribunal.
After completing an in-house training programme, she was offered sponsorship by the company to pursue the diploma qualification to back up her hands-on experience in the field. The diploma covered a wide range of topics, including termination of the contract of employment, discrimination, redundancy and Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment.
Suzy Brain England
IoD Yorkshire BUSINESSWOMAN Suzy Brain England has been appointed regional chairman of the Institute of Directors in Yorkshire. Ms Brain England (pictured) is widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading non-executive directors with a strong background in professional development. She founded Cloud Talking Mentoring and Counselling in 2003 and has been called on by some of the UK’s top housing, health and financial institutions to be a non-executive director. She received the OBE in 2009 for her public service. A Freeman of the City of London, she was Midlands Business Woman of the Year in 1996 and is a former Non Executive Director of the Year. In her new role, she is keen to promote professional development to all business leaders and wants to pursue ways to drive forward policies in keeping with the IoD ethos to help boost growth in the region. She said: “It is tough out there. Most of us are not getting business as easily as we used, yet most organisations have controlled costs and consolidated as much as we can. “The IoD has to be at the heart of change and must be involved with organisations such as the Local Enterprise Partnerships as they implement measures such as the green agenda, which make the rest of the UK and the world realise that Yorkshire is an attractive place to do business.”