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GLEN TIMMINS Bouquets, not barbed wire
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SIMON KAYE November round-up! Column - Page 5
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Rapid response to help growing firms KIRKLEES companies with star quality are getting a helping hand. GrowthAccelerator has been launched by the Government to focus on small and medium-sized businesses with the potential for rapid and sustained growth – to double their turnover in the next three or four years and achieve a growth rate of 20% year-on-year. The UK-wide programme, which can apply to firms in any sector, has been backed by a £200m investment by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and is being delivered in the Kirklees area by Leeds-based business improvement specialist Winning Pitch. The company specialises in helping businesses develop through marketing, team building, personal development and customised training programmes. C o m p a n i e s e l i g i b l e fo r t h e GrowthAccelerator programme have to be registered limited companies based in England, employ fewer than 250 people and have turnover below £400m.
The partnership between the private sector and Government will see proven business experts working with companies to identify their barriers to growth and ways to overcome them – covering issues such as securing finance, turning innovative ideas into commercial products or developing leadership skills. The programme includes an online “Growth Mapper” to provide a 360-degree assessment of the business. Ann Storey, of Winning Pitch, said: “We focus on the areas that are holding a business back and what is stopping them from growing. We bring in a proven expert in business to coach them and help them overcome the barriers. “In Yorkshire, we have 70 coaches who are all independent and have been proven to deliver results. They have worked in senior positions, grown a business and achieved things.” Firms get one-to-one coaching for up to 10 days as well as the opportunity to attend workshops and networking events.”
■ TARGET: Business Secretary Vince Cable aims to boost SMEs
Ann, who is based in Leeds but also works at the Media Centre in Huddersfield and the Wakefield offices of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We have already been able to assist some fabulous local businesses in sectors such as engineering, web design and healthcare with coaching in areas such as access to finance,
innovation and business development. “Companies trying to get into international markets can use us alongside organisations such as UKTI to undertaken feasibility studies.” Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “GrowthAccelerator is an exciting new programme that is at the heart of the Government’s commitment to help businesses deliver growth by increasing their chance of gaining access to finance and spurring innovation. “The £200m programme will deliver high quality coaching to a range of businesses that will help them grow and give the economy a real boost. “The UK boasts vibrant small and medium-sized businesses that have the chance to become the household names of tomorrow. “With targeted support we are giving entrepreneurs a fantastic opportunity to take their businesses forward to succeed both here and abroad. I look forward to seeing what this great programme helps them achieve in the future.” Go to www.growthaccelerator.com
Enterprise agency welcomes change of rules KIRKLEES jobseekers who want to become self-employed have been given a boost. Under new rules announced by Employment Minister Mark Hoban, jobseekers are now eligible to join the New Enterprise Allowance scheme from day one of their claim. Previously, anyone who wanted to access the full range of financial support and advice through the scheme had to wait between 13 and 26 weeks to be considered. The rule change should benefit many jobhunters in Kirklees, according to the Huddersfield-based West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency, which delivers the national scheme in West Yorkshire in partnership with Jobcentre Plus for jobseekers
who want to pursue self-employment. The agency, which is the enterprise arm of the Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, has seen a doubling in referrals from Jobcentres across Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield during October compared with the previous month. Participants on the scheme are assigned their own business mentor and given access to free start-up workshops to help them write a business plan as they prepare to start trading. Once they’ve signed-off jobseekers allowance, they can claim weekly payments for their first 26 weeks of trading to help take the financial pressure off as the business grows.
In the 15 months to October, 228 jobseekers across the chamber area signed-off jobseekers allowance to start their own business under the New Enterprise Allowance. The agency has now helped 106 jobseekers from Wakefield, 84 from Kirklees and 38 from Calderdale to go it alone. As part of his announcement, Mr Hoban also revealed that more places would be made available on the scheme in a bid to reach the target of 40,000 new start-ups nationally. Andrew Choi, executive director of the agency, said: “It is encouraging to see so many jobseekers pursuing self-employment and the number of people starting their own business in mid-Yorkshire just proves what
an enterprising area it is “This scheme is a fantastic opportunity for jobseekers to access the advice and financial support that they need to get their business idea off the ground and grow to be successful.” He said: “Small and medium s i z e d bu s i n e s s e s a r e t h e lifeblood of our economy and we need the Government to continue to invest in schemes like these so we can keep supporting new enterprise.” West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency is still looking for volunteers from the business community to give up an hour every fortnight to mentor participants on the enterprise scheme.
■ ADVICE: Andrew Choi, executive director of the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency
INSIDE Safe and sound STAFF at a Holme Valley accountancy firm are in safe hands – after nine out of its 10 employees gained safety qualifications. The members of staff at V&A Bell Brown were awarded certificates after successfully completing their Emergency First Aid at Work qualification. They completed the one-day EFAW course, which was delivered by Mike Shucksmith, of West Yorkshire Medical Services Ltd.
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Training concerns THE Federation of Master Builders has called for action to “restore the apprenticeship brand”. The call follows a report by MPs on the Business, Innovation and Skills Select Committee which argued for a single definition of an apprentice – while recognising the crucial role of apprenticeships in providing job opportunities and supporting sustainable economic growth.
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
national
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Improving figures for house builders DEMAND for new build homes is holding steady amid help from various government schemes, some of the UK’s largest housebuilders said. Redrow and Taylor Wimpey told the City that while access to mortgage finance was still restricted, initiatives such as NewBuy, which underwrites 95% mortgages with participating lenders, had helped confidence. Bovis Homes added that prices in the housing market were broadly stable, with prices generally stronger in the south of England. As well as New Buy, Redrow founder and chairman Steve Morgan pointed to the impact of the FirstBuy scheme, which helps low income buyers with an equity loan. He said: “Without a doubt industry numbers would be considerably lower without this intervention.” In an update covering the first 19 weeks of its financial year, Redrow said it continued to make “steady progress”, with sales per outlet up slightly on a
■ CONSTRUCTIVE COMMENTS: Taylor Wimpey, Redrow and Bovis have all posted encouraging figures for house sales and completions in recent months
year earlier at 0.58 per week. The average price of reservations was 13% ahead of last year at £223,000, reflecting the strength of the London property market and increased sales of Redrow’s New Heritage Collection. Taylor Wimpey reported 467 reservations under NewBuy and its Scottish equivalent since the scheme’s launch in March, legally completing on 137 and exchanging on 132 homes. It has also completed a total of 1,179 homes under the FirstBuy scheme. Taylor Wimpey added that it hoped
to see further improvements in mortgage lending over the coming months as the Government’s Funding for Lending scheme gained more traction. The positive updates did not prevent shares slipping. Bovis closed 9p down at 506.5p with Redrow 2p lower at 156.6p and Taylor Wimpey marginally down at 58.75p. After selling more homes on sites bought after the economic downturn, Bovis expects to see its full-year operating margin at about 13%, significantly
Mobile auction
ahead of its 11% margin last year. Bovis said it had continued to invest in “good quality” land with planning consent and this year had acquired 2,331 consented plots across 16 sites which were mainly for family homes in the south of England. It is also in the final stages of acquiring 1,000 consented plots on eight sites. Taylor Wimpey, which saw its sales rate increase slightly to 0.57 sales per outlet per week in the year to date in 2012, up from 0.56 in the equivalent period last year, said it continued to add “attractive, short term and particularly strategic sites” to its land portfolio. It approved the purchase of 3,436 plots across 33 new sites since July and made a successful bid for the first residential phase of development of Chobham Manor in the Olympic Park. Redrow said its balance sheet remained strong, despite investment in land hiking net debts to £90m.
Travelodge extends gym link-up
Progress for Wincanton
A BUDGET hotel chain with sites in Kirklees has stepped up a partnership with a gym chain by announcing £70m plans to find another 10 sites. Travelodge already shares locations with The Gym Group in Guildford, Plymouth, London Waterloo and Wembley, but wants to expand this over the next five years. The move is part of Travelodge’s drive for an additional 50 sites – or 5,030 rooms – in London by 2020, while Gym Group wants 20 new gyms in the capital by next year. Travelodge, which was founded in
THE turnaround of logistics business Wincanton is “gathering momentum”, its boss said – after it returned to profit and clinched two major retail deals. The group, which counts Asda and The Co-operative among its customers, has struck a multi-million pound deal with DIY giant B&Q and signed a five-year contract with supermarket Morrisons to operate its first UK convenience store distribution centre in London. In contrast to a £13.6m loss last year, Wincanton reported a £13m
1985 and employs 6,000 staff, has 520 hotels and more than 37,000 rooms across the UK, Ireland and Spain. They include hotels at Leeds Road in Huddersfield and at Mirfield. Commenting on the gym link-up, Travelodge director Paul Harvey said the existing four co-location sites had worked “enormously well” for both parties. There are currently 27 sites in operation by Gym Group, which is focusing its search for new sites on London and the South East.
pre-tax profit for the six months to September 30. Chief executive Eric Born said the company’s drive to lead the UK and Ireland market continued to gather momentum and that Wincanton’s recent new business successes were a clear indication of progress. Last year, Wiltshire-based Wincanton sold its mainland European operations to focus on the UK and Ireland and disposed of its business delivering food to restaurants, pubs and other caterers. It also reduced staff numbers from 26,000 to 16,000.
REGULATOR Ofcom has given operators four weeks to register for what it claims will be the UK’s biggest ever sale of mobile airwaves next year. Prospective bidders must submit a £100,000 deposit to register for the auction of new spectrum, which can be used by smartphones and tablets to provide superfast 4G services at speeds similar to home broadband. Ofcom expects to raise a minimum £1.3bn from the process, a far cry from the £22.5bn that was gained by selling 3G frequencies during the dotcom boom in 2000. The new spectrum auction could see 4G services being provided by a range of providers as early as next May, according to the regulator. EE, the owner of T-Mobile and Orange, is currently the only mobile operator in the UK with enough spectrum to offer 4G capability. Its three rivals, Vodafone, Telefonica and Three, are expected to join the group as front runners for additional frequencies as demand for mobile broadband continues to skyrocket, although the auction is also open to new entrants. Ofcom expects to start bidding for the new frequencies in January. Using software specifically designed for the process, the bids will be placed online on secure servers. EE’s 4G services were launched on October 30 in 11 major cities including London, Southampton and Bristol.
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £34.89 -0.28 Gannett 1055.95 -22.05 Hess Corp £31.57 -0.39 Microsoft 1785.41 -31.00 Motors Liquidation 47.25 Wal-Mart Stores £45.47 -0.09 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Avon Rbbr 332 +23/4 BAE Systems 3061/4 -23/4 Rolls-Royce 871 -6 AIM Brady Plc 102 +11/2 Man Brnze 9 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 2053/4 -1/4 BANKS Barclays 235 +43/4 HSBC 6033/4 +27/8 1 Lloyds Banking Gp 45 /8 +11/2 1 Ryl Scotland 274 /2 +43/8 Stan Chart 14431/2 +5 BEVERAGES Diageo 1800 -3 SABMiller £263/4 +1/8 CHEMICALS Croda £221/2 -1/8 Elementis 98 214 -21/8 3 Johnsn Mat £22 /4 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2377/8 -71/2 Costain 2341/2 +1
ELECTRICITY Drax Gp 541 SSE 1395 -4 ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Laird 2213/4 -11/4 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 3683/4 -2 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 2247/8 +5/8 Cable & Wireless 381/4 +3/4 Comm 1 Colt Group 102 /8 +31/2 KCOM 74 -1/2 Talktalk Telecom 1865/8 -4 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS 1 Morrison W 264 /2 Sainsbury 349 +11/8 Tesco 3243/4 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 1385 +10 Tate Lyle 757 +10 1 Unilever £23 /4 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 3195/8 -3/4 National Grid 687 -2 Pennon Grp 6661/2 -3 Severn 1518 +5 United Utils 6471/2 -3 GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 2143/4 +1/2 ICAP 3155/8 +41/4 London StockExch 969 +2
+1/2 Man Group 811/2 Provident Financial 1349 +20 Schroders 1564 +9 Schroders NV 1264 -1 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS Cooksn Grp 575 -4 REXAM 4417/8 -1/8 Smiths Grp 1052 -2 GENERAL RETAILERS Ashley L 273/4 +1/4 Carphone Whse 1761/2 +11/2 3 Dixons Retail 24 /4 +1/2 Home Retail 114 +11/2 Inchcape 4021/4 +1/8 Kingfisher 2857/8 +21/4 5 M&S 384 /8 +23/8 Mothercare 2973/4 +31/4 Next £36 1 WH Smith 607 /2 +1 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 6591/2 +3 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 603/4 +11/4 Barrat Dev 1875/8 +3/8 Persimmon 767 3 Reckitt Benckiser £37 /4 Taylor Wimpey 583/4 -1/4 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING IMI 940 -9 INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 2061/4 -41/8 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BBA Aviation 2065/8 +1/2
LIFE INSURANCE Aviva 3281/4 +27/8 Lgl & Gen 1411/2 -1/8 3 Old Mutual 168 /8 +1/4 Prudential 849 +21/2 Resolution 2373/4 +1/4 1 Standard Life 303 /8 +13/4 MEDIA BSkyB 7531/2 +1/2 D Mail Tst 4511/4 -3/4 1 HIBU /4 3 ITV 86 /4 +1 Johnston Press 12 -1/4 Pearson 1225 1 +1 Reed Elsevier 610 /2 STV Group 1031/2 +1 Trinity Mirror 70 -1/4 Utd Business 693 -5 UTV 125 -1/2 WPP 811 +3 MINING Anglo American 18271/2 -381/2 Antofagasta 1257 1 BHP Billiton 1950 /2 Eurasian Natural 2891/8 -7/8 Res Fresnillo 1936 +7 Kazakhmys 6791/2 -21/2 1 Lonmin 483 /4 +277/8 Rio Tinto £303/4 -1/8 VEDANTA 1103 +16 RESOURCES Xstrata 956 -141/4 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES Inmarsat 546 -2
Local shares Carclo Marshalls National Grid Weir Gp
3851/4 95 687 1748
-121/2 +11/2 -2 -3
closed at at FTSE closed
5767.27 Down 2.41 Vodafone Group 1665/8 NONLIFE INSURANCE Admiral Grp 1092 RSA Insurance Gp 1123/4 OIL & GAS PRODUCERS BG 10401/2 BP 4271/4 Cairn Energy 2771/2 Royal Dutch Shell A £213/8 Royal Dutch Shell B £22 Total £301/4 Tullow Oil 1379 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES AMEC 1030 Petrofac 1552
-1 +38 +1/8 -161/2 -17/8 -11/2 -1/8 -3 -19 +10
Wood Gp(J) 843 -6 PERSONAL GOODS Burberry Gp 1247 +30 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £281/2 -1/8 GlaxoSmithK 101/2 Shire 1750 -13 REAL ESTATE Brit Land 5211/2 +1 Captl Shop Cent 3323/4 -11/2 1 Hamrsn 471 /4 +33/4 Land Secs 792 +31/2 SEGRO 2293/4 +23/4 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Invensys 2211/4 -133/8 Sage Group 3045/8 -23/4 SUPPORT SERVICES Berendsen 571 -61/2 Bunzl 1015 Capita 727 +31/2 De La Rue 1064 +2 1 Electrocomp 209 /4 -31/4 Experian 1046 -4 G4S 2483/4 -43/4 Hays 801/2 -11/2 Homeserve 2303/8 -3/8 Menzies J 5781/2 -11 Rentokil 86 -1 Smiths News 1521/4 -3/4 1 Wolseley £27 /8 IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs 7151/2 +3 Spirent Comms 143 -2
TOBACCO Br Am Tob Imperial Tobacco
£321/8 £241/4
+1/8 -1/8
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
1181/4 £251/2 6901/2 650 70 1881/2 1252 591 1579 1701/2 1913/4 3261/4 1701/2 1491/4 2735/8 2485/8 £237/8
+13/4 +1/8 +2 +1/2 -11/4 -1/2 -18 +2 +22 -1/8 +13/4 -3/4 +5/8 -15/8 -25/8 -13/8
FTSE 100
INDEX 5767.27
-2.41
FTSE 250
INDEX 11803.30
-39.12
TOURIST RATES Tourists going abroad can expect the following rates for sterling: Australia...................... 1.45 dollars Bangladesh................. 122.47 taka Brazil.............................. 2.91 reals Canada....................... 1.51 dollars China ............................. 8.85 yuan Czech Republic ...... 29.15 korunas Denmark....................... 8.87 krone Euro............................... 1.19 euro Hong Kong................ 11.69 dollars Hungary................... 317.57 forints India.......................... 77.10 rupees Japan........................... 120.20 yen Mexico ....................... 18.71 pesos New Zealand .............. 1.81 dollars Norway ......................... 8.71 krone Pakistan.................. 143.56 rupees Philippines ................. 55.89 pesos South Africa................. 12.93 rand South Korea.............. 1507.00 won Sri Lanka ................ 195.48 rupees Sweden....................... 10.25 krona Switzerland.................. 1.44 francs Taiwan ...................... 40.25 dollars Turkey....................... 2.70 new lira USA ............................ 1.52 dollars
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS GLEN Timmins is saying it with flowers. And his new business, Flowers by Glen, which he launched just a few months ago, could hardly be further removed from his previous job as a prison officer. Glen spent 19 years in the prison service, working at Doncaster Jail where he was one of 652 prison staff looking after 1,045 inmates. For the last few years, he specialised in managing prisoners viewed at risk of suicide or self-harming – a task which throws up enormous challenges and can take a huge emotional toll and for which he won an award in 2010 for Prisoner Care. Says Glen: “I got great satisfaction from my work reducing self-harm and preventing suicide and getting lads to face demands to enable them to lead more fulfilling lives. I worked with a great team of staff. But in the end I decided I had to leave because in the last year I felt completely burnt out. “One of the important aspects of the job is to have good inter-personal skills. It is about dealing with people in very challenging situations; people who are very emotional , extremely upset, violent and many with past abuse, drug and alcohol issues. “But sometimes you come to a crossroads and you can carry on doing what you are doing or take a new route.” Glen’s decision to change career came during a drive home from work – as he was passing Rockwood Garden Centre at Wakefield Road, Grange Moor. “My grandfather was keenly interested in plants and flowers,” he says. “I have always enjoyed gardening, too.” Glen decided to take a concession at the garden centre to provide fresh cut flowers and indoor plants. He also supplies outdoor plants, tubs and baskets. Says Glen: “I had often dreamed of doing this kind of thing, but it is a big challenge. “I have corporate clients and supply local pubs and restaurants with flowers on a weekly basis. I also provide flowers for large venues for events such as Christmas parties and weddings as well as supplying flowers for funerals.” Glen says: “The weather hasn’t been on my side this summer! But people who visit the garden centre are always pleasantly surprised by what they find. It is a bit of a curiosity shop, there’s quite a lot going on inside. “It’s a great location because it’s on a busy, main road and with a catchment area covering Huddersfield, Wakefield and Dewsbury. A lot of garden centres are in out of the way places.” Glen says: “Business is growing and when people come in they are always positive. I have good, regular customers and a number of friends, such as Steve and Brenda Fennell in the next
profile
Glen picks a new career concession doing ‘shabby chic’ furniture who I can call on to help if needed. “The owners, staff and other concession owners create a warm friendly atmosphere for all.” A major coup for Glen was to provide floral displays for The National Media Museum in Bradford when an event was held to mark the retirement of James Bond producer Michael Wilson from his role as a chairman of trustees of the museum. Glen also provided flowers for the Grattans Freeman catalogue 100th birthday which included a fashion show and meal for 180 at the same venue. He now counts museum development executive Sue Clayton as both a customer and a friend who again helps out and has a passion for flowers. Glen has also hosted flower arranging events for local members of the Women’s Institute. “White lilies are the best
■ FLOWERING: Glen made a big career change to run his floristry business
sellers,” he says. “Small arrangements are also popular. I like to advise people in terms of colour and how an arrangement might look. People always want flowers for the kitchen table or in the window at home.” While autumn oranges and reds are popular at present, Glen expects Christmas to bring increased demand for traditional arrangements, wreaths and seasonal plants, such as poinsettias. Glen will also be involved in the village Christmas Fair, which takes place on November 24 at Grange Moor village hall. Despite his 19 years in the prison service, retailing is nothing new to Glen. Born in Hull, he was put up for adoption at a young age and went to live with his adoptive parents in Doncaster when he was just six weeks old. Growing up, Glen says he always wanted to work in a hospital, but in his teens took two weekend jobs – Saturdays at Halfords and Sundays at a riding stables. “I got a permanent job with Halfords and moved round quite a bit,” he says. “I left the company as a technical manager and went to work for John Lewis at its new store in Aberdeen as a department manager. I worked in lighting and then kitchenware – and that’s how I got my customer service background.” Glen still calls John Lewis ‘the Rolls Royce of shops’. “I was in Scotland for seven or eight years before I returned to Yorkshire,” he says. “I was visiting Sheffield when I saw a job advert for a prison officer and applied. When I got the
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Glen Timmins
job, a lot of people said I would never stick at it. But prisoners are still customers in a way. As a prison officer, you have to be firm, but fair.” Now he is relishing his new challenge. “It’s scary leaving a full-time job and a guaranteed monthly income,” he says. Glen admits to not taking days off at present as he wants to give the business 100%, but his days are varied and not at all monotonous. The typical day starts with a visit to the market at 5.30am. Glen can also be travelling to set out arrangements at pubs and restaurants. ““I am always available on the telephone and it can be 10pm before I finish for the day,” he says. “It’s not a nine to five job. “Even when I’m at home I can be dealing with quotes and invoices. “I also visit people at their homes to discuss arrangements, particularly for things like funerals. It’s the personal touch that counts and being able to empathise with them. I also provide a service to people who may not be able to place fresh flowers on loved ones’ graves. “I have been to quite a few networking events at places like the John Smith’s Stadium and the Design House in Halifax. Networking is new to me and you have to learn which are the most useful events, because there’s lots of choice when it comes to which ones to attend.” Glen moved to his home near Castle Hill two years ago and when time
allows enjoys macro photography and long walks around the area. “I like visiting friends whom I hold dear due to having no direct family apart from my partner,” he says. “I also like socialising and meals out. “And I like houses. I have refurbished houses and rented them out in the past and I like to see what’s going off in terms of decorations and trends.” Glen lost both his adoptive parents some years ago – and more recently his step-mother. But he recognises the debt he owes them. “I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for them,” he says. “It is a big regret to me that they are not here to see what I’ve now achieved, but I know they would have supported me.”
Role: Proprietor Age: 48 Holidays: Greece, although my ambition is to visit New England Car: Mercedes estate First job: A Saturday job in the cycle department at Halfords Best thing about job: Being creative and having the opportunity to realise a dream Worst thing about job: Not getting enough free time! I don’t think it is good for anyone business or me not to get a break Business tip: Follow your dream, but think about it carefully – don’t jump straight in
Flowers by Glen Work: Floristry Site: Grange Moor Phone: 07958 070395 Email: flowerbyglen.com Web: www.flowersby glen.co,uk
HENRYK ZIENTEK
Who will be the next Business of the Month? If you are proud of what your business has achieved; why not tell us about your success story and you could be a winner of our prestigious award. For further details please contact: Ian Greenwood, Eaton Smith Solicitors, 14 High Street, Huddersfield HD1 2HA T: 01484 821389 E: iangreenwood@eatonsmith.co.uk Business Of The Month Awards - Rewarding Success Since 1995
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Managing Partner Nick Ledgard, who leads the specialist financial team, says “Every business has different needs and aspirations and we always tailor our services to meet their exact requirements. As accountants we are completely client focused and our initial priority is to get on a client’s wavelength and find common ground. All businesses have very individual needs and even the different people within each business have their own goals and ideas, all of which have to be understood and analysed. We can then produce a choice of strategies, or route plans, that will achieve all of the various individual goals within the business and those of the various stakeholders”. “We help clients navigate around problems in the journey by highlighting them as soon as they become evident and suggest various solutions, or detours, to get them back on track to the destination as quickly and efficiently as possible”. “It is like having your own financial and business SATNAV with you for the journey, giving advice and re-calculating the best route depending upon the decisions taken by the driver”. “My team and I offer a very honest approach and our first job is to clarify client’s needs so everyone is moving forward in the same direction. We pride ourselves on ‘thinking…outside the books”. Walker & Sutcliffe is already the number one choice for many local and national businesses and continually grows a portfolio of commercial and personal clients. The business was started by David Walker in 1975 and has grown over the years to become one of Huddersfield’s leading chartered accountancy practices and business strategy specialists. Today all kinds of businesses use the services of Walker & Sutcliffe, ranging from sole traders to multi-national organisations. Among the services offered by Nick and his team are business start-up advice, cash flow planning, accounts and audits, tax compliance, CGT and IHT planning, advice on buying and selling a business, payroll, management information systems, retirement and exit planning and strategic issues.
Nick says “We differ from many other accountants by taking the time to fully understand our individual client’s needs and goals. This allows us to ensure our advice is directed towards achieving the client’s actual goals, not some presumptions of them. We specialise in succession planning to safeguard the future of the business and to maximise its worth. It is amazing that many people leave it too close to their desired retirement date to think about how they are going to realise the value in their business, which is often their largest single asset. All our clients are different and therefore our services are tailored to meet their individual needs”. Although Walker & Sutcliffe offers help to many local businesses, its portfolio includes customers from Scotland to the South Coast, and even overseas. Local clients are always welcome to use free boardroom facilities at Walker & Sutcliffe for meetings or small conferences. This is all part of the service and continuous dedication to its valued clients. Nick said “Walker & Sutcliffe exists to help individual client’s financial needs. Through a joint venture, R B Walker & Sutcliffe, we are also working with colleagues who are specialists in wealth management. Our aim is always to improve the financial performance of our clients’ businesses and personal assets and make sure they are structured to perform in the most profitable and efficient way”. Contact Nick and his team on FREEPHONE 08000 32 32 03
Our Mission Statement “To be the first choice as auditors, accountants, taxation and general business advisors for the Small Medium Enterprise sector in West Yorkshire and the surrounding areas by offering a progressive, proactive approach through a value-for-money service of financial measures and advice, enabling clients to meet their financial and business goals in the short, medium and long terms.’’
It’s time you got more from your accountant Thinking… outside the books
added value services include… Tailored programme to maximise profitability Tailored tax efficient solutions
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Call Freephone: 08000 32 32 03 and quote KBN /1211 to give us the chance to help you achieve your goals, or contact us through our website at:-
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Managing partner Nick Ledgard
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
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Confidence grows for long-term prospects INCE the middle of the S year, equity markets have performed strongly, due
largely to positive action from major global central banks. Most significantly, moves by the European Central Bank have dramatically reduced the odds of a euro break-up, while the Federal Reserve in the US has reassured markets that easy monetary policy will be in place until, and perhaps even some time after, the economic recovery is completely assured. In our view, the long-term outlook for “risk assets” continues to remain favourable, although we would highlight that the final two months of the year could be very testing for financial markets. The key issue is whether politicians in the US will avoid the “fiscal cliff ” next year, which would almost certainly send the country back into recession. Also during this period, a leadership transition in China is taking place, while events in the eurozone never seem to be far from the headlines. With thanks to the ECB, sentiment towards the eurozone has improved significantly since the summer months, with recent p o l i c y a c t i o n d ra m at i c a l ly improving the odds that the Euro-Area can continue to exist in its current form and avoid a further downturn. A more positive tone has also been apparent from the political elite, with the establishment of a banking union by the end of 2013 recently agreed and the 500 euro European Stability Mechanism fund now in place. Nevertheless, the macro-economic and fiscal outlook for the eurozone continues to remain somewhat of a concern. It is highly likely that the Euro-Area entered another recession in the third
CITY TALK Simon Kaye
quarter, with very subdued growth perhaps the best case scenario for 2013. Spain remains a particular cause of concern – GDP has declined for five consecutive quarters, unemployment is around 25%, bad loans in the banking system recently hit a record high and this year’s budget deficit target may well be missed (yet again!). Nevertheless, the ECB’s pledge to do “whatever it takes” has led to a dramatic decline in short term Spanish (and Italian) borrowing costs. Looking to Italy, the key area of uncertainty relates to the fact that the country will go to the polls early next year to choose a successor to the current leader Mario Monti (although Mario Monti has not ruled out continuing his leadership if the poll results are inconclusive). Meanwhile, the probability of Greece leaving the euro in the near-ter m appears to have declined somewhat – Angela Merkel’s recent visit to the country was symbolic that Germany is perhaps willing to show more sympathy with troubled member states. Indeed, at the time of writing it seemed likely that Greece would receive its next bail-out tranche of circa 30bn euros and would also be given an additional two years to meet budget deficit targets. In the US, developments on the US macro front have been particu-
larly encouraging in recent months, despite high levels of political uncertainty. Third quarter GDP rose by 2% compared to a 1.3% increase in the second quarter. The employment picture also continues to improve, with the unemployment rate now at its lowest level since January, 2009, which has helped to promote spending – for example, auto sales in September increased at the fastest pace since March, 2008. The housing market, the cause of the initial crisis, also seems to have turned a corner recently, thanks to record low mortgage rates, a material fall in sales inventories (to long-term average levels) and improving lending conditions – house prices have risen 5-10% this year on an annualised basis. As we approach year end, the key issue facing the US economy is whether the “Fiscal Cliff ” in 2013 can be avoided – the economy could face a potential fiscal contraction next year of circa 4% of GDP if Republicans and Democrats fail to reach some form of compromise on fiscal issues. For several months now, an economic slowdown has been apparent across a number of the major emerging market economies, including China. Chinese GDP in the third quarter rose by 7.4% year-on-year, the slowest pace since the first quarter of 2009, while 2012 looks set to be the slowest year for economic growth since 1999, due in part to the effects of the slowdown in
Simon Kaye is divisional director at Investec Wealth & Investment
Europe. In response and with thanks to lower inflation rates, policymakers in China have been able to reduce interest rates and also recently approved 1trn RMB in new infrastructure projects. It is hoped that once the leadership change is finalised in November, additional measures to help the economy could also be announced and one should not underestimate the level of firepower available to policymakers in China. Indeed, there is already evidence that after seven consecutive months of slowdown, growth rates may finally begin to increase in the fourth quarter of this year. After three consecutive quarters of decline, the UK economy finally grew in the third quarter by a much better than expected 1% – this was the strongest quarterly increase in GDP since the third quarter of 2007. Although clearly encouraging, it is unlikely that this rate of growth will be sustained going forwards – the Olympics added around 0.2 percentage points to the headline figure, while second quarter GDP was favourably comparable because of the extra jubilee bank holiday. Indeed, for perspective, the economy is still around 3% below its pre-crisis level and has not grown at all over the past 12 months. UK public borrowing also remains a concern, with the Office for Budget Responsibility borrowing target likely to be missed this fiscal year. However, the labour market in the UK continues to improve, with the unemployment rate currently at 7.9%, from a peak of 8.4% late last year. This has been positive news for UK banks and should help to support asset quality and credit expansion going forwards.
Time to heed this safety drive ITH the dark nights and W dark mornings already upon us and the UK weather
becoming even more unpredictable, now is the time to think about winter driving. Employers are responsible for the safety of employees when driving on company business, whether in a company vehicle or a private car. Surveys indicate that drivers of company vehicles are less well-prepared for winter driving than drivers of private cars, which is a warning to fleet managers to spread the message – Be Prepared. Drivers should be prepared as far as possible for the hazards
RISKY BUSINESS Kevin Barrett
associated with winter driving. Ideally, journeys should be avoided in bad weather, but if travel by road is necessary, some reasonable precautions should be taken: ● Check traffic information and weather bulletins for advance warnings of trouble along the
route ● Plan your route to avoid exposed routes or steep country lanes. Leave yourself plenty of time to avoid rushing and make sure someone knows your route and your expected arrival time ● Make sure your vehicle is fit for the journey. Tyres should be
Kevin Barrett is risk management consultant at Wilby Ltd
properly inflated and have at least 3mm tread depth to be safe in wet or icy conditions. All lights should be working as should windscreen wipers, de-misters, etc ● All windows and mirrors should be unobstructed by ice or snow before starting off ● The vehicle should be regularly serviced with anti-freeze in the radiator and a winter additive in the windscreen wash ● The vehicle should carry a basic emergency kit containing as a minimum de-icer and scraper, warning triangle in the event of a breakdown, mobile phone, torch, warm clothes, boots, blanket, a first aid kit, food and drink and a spade.
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Can your business afford to ignore Health & Safety? With Competent Health and Safety advice from just £25 a month you don’t need to Wilby Risk Management offer a range of services including: Competent Advice Risk Assessments Assistance with CHAS applications contact us today on 01422 358525 or email healthandsafety@wilbyltd.co.uk
Wealth & Investment. A wealth of know-how With more than 150 years’ experience of serving clients by investing their money wisely, Investec Wealth & Investment have the knowledge and expertise you need regarding your investments, pensions or other financial matters. Please bear in mind that the value of investments and the income derived from them can go down as well as up and that you may not get back the amount that you have put in. For further information please visit our website, call Simon Kaye on 0113 245 4488 or email simon.kaye@investecwin.co.uk investecwin.co.uk
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Deal values up in Yorkshire PROPERTY experts have reported a big rise in the value of commercial property investment transactions across Yorkshire. Figures from Lambert Smith Hampton showed that the value of such deals rose to £303m in the third quarter of 2012 from £172 for the previous three months. That represents an increase of 76% from the second quarter of 2012 and is close to the figure of £306.5m for the third quarter of 2011. The biggest deals included Hammerson Plc’s acquisition of Victoria Quarter in Leeds for £136m, Gatehouse Bank Plc’s purchase of 115-126 Briggate in Leeds for £33.4m
and Praxis Holdings’ acquisition of Crossgates Shopping Centre in Leeds for £29.5m. The retail sector, accounting for 31.4% of total investment in the second quarter of this year, increased to 83.5% for the third month with transactions worth £235m. The office sector, which accounted for 33% of the total market in the second quarter fell to just 5% of total investment in the third quarter at £16m while the industrial sector accounted for just 3% of the market at £10m. Investor demand in the region remains focused on the retail sector with demand for office and industrial stock limited.
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TRAFALGAR MILLS • LEEDS ROAD • HUDDERSFIELD • HD2 1YY
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Attention all new business owners !
Balance Accountants launch enhanced service for new businesses
Research shows that 4 out of 5 new businesses fail within their first 5 years of trading and that 57% fail within the first 12 months. The good news is that research also shows that careful financial planning and a good accountant are 2 of the things that really make a difference in helping new businesses to avoid becoming just another statistic. The Balance START-UP SERVICE is squarely aimed at new or fledgling businesses with the sense and foresight to learn the financial ropes, get their accounts in order and then prepare to prosper and grow. It’s our way of helping to tip the balance in favour of short term survival leading to long term success. So if you are about to start or have recently started a new business then it might be worth a call to Balance Accountants to see how the service that we offer can help your business to succeed!!!! Balance Accountants specialise in helping business owners to have better, more profitable and more enjoyable businesses. If your business is not performing as well as you want it to then you should contact us now. Balance Accountants,Victoria Court, 91 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth HD9 3JA Tel: 01484 685 413 Fax: 01484 682206 www.balanceonline.co.uk info@balanceonline.co.uk
property
Page 6
Pipe dream – or nightmare! A CONSUMER watchdog is urging businesses to protect their property this winter – by guarding against burst pipes. Each winter, businesses suffer frozen and burst pipes because they are not as prepared as they could be for exceptionally cold periods of weather. Research by the Consumer Council for Water (CCWater) suggests that only one in five owners of small and medium-sized businesses are sure about the best thing to do to minimise the risk of a frozen pipe bursting. Also a quarter of businesses do not have tanks and pipes lagged in readiness for the winter. Most business customers, however, said they would welcome advice and guidance from their local water company or another expert source. Tony Smith, chief executive of CCWater, said: “Winter can be a difficult time financially, but could be
■ PIPEWORK: Figures suggest few business owners know how the minimise the risk of frozen and burst pipes
much worse if you have to deal with frozen and burst water pipes. “There could be a significant impact on business, stock and customers and therefore your bottom line. “Prevention is certainly better than cure and investing a little time and money now could save major costs and insurance claims in the longer term.” Businesses should ensure that water pipes in cold draughty areas are insu-
lated and make sure they insulate outside taps – or turn them off at the stop tap and drain the water from them. If they plan to close for a few days or over Christmas period, they should leave the heating on low. If the pipes freeze, firms should find and turn off the stop tap and make sure any nearby cold taps are turned on to allow the water to escape when it thaws. Don't turn hot taps on until the central heating is switched off but do what you can to protect or remove anything which might be damaged if the pipe bursts when the water thaws. Check all visible pipes for damage or evidence of freezing. If you can identify which pipe is frozen apply a hot water bottle or hot wet towel. If you notice a leak once pressure in the pipe has built up again, turn off the stop tap and call a plumber.
Upturn in buyer demand boosts regional market BUYER demand in Yorkshire rose at its fastest rate in almost three years during October – with purchasers across the region looking to test the pre-Christmas market, according to a housing survey today. Figures from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors showed interest from would-be buyers rose at its highest rate since December, 2009. During October, chartered surveyors reported a considerable boost in new buyer enquiries with a net balance of 15% more respondents reporting rises – from minus 11%. Said the survey: “It appears that the growing optimism shown in recent months may slowly be translating into an upturn in activity.” Despite this, the number of homes coming onto the region’s market remained flat. Last month, 1% more respondents reported falls rather than rises in vendors placing their properties on the market. Moving on to prices, although demand saw an upturn in fortunes, prices across the region continued to dip with a net balance of 32% more surveyors reporting drops. Prices in Yorkshire and Humberside have now been in negative territory since December, 2009. Regionally, all areas of the UK saw improvements in levels of demand with the exception of Northern Ireland and Scotland. Significantly, the North East and the West Midlands saw the most notable rises, with surveyors in those regions reporting net balance readings of plus 56% and plus 35% respectively. Yorkshire and Humber chartered surveyors are hoping that the current upturn in interest should translate into
■ HOME FRONT: Growing optimism in recent months may be translating into an upturn in activity, according to the latest survey by the RICS a greater number of sales, as a net balance of 18% more respondents predicted rises in transactions over the coming three months. RICS spokesman Ian Briggs said: “It seems that with Christmas around the corner, those who are in a position to buy have decided to get out there and see what is available. “That said, with the typical age of a first-time buyer now pushing 40, it would appear that mortgage dependent home purchase may in future be effectively restricted to 40 to 50 year olds.” Colleague Ian Perry said: “Overall
activity is still very low in most parts of the country and what the market desperately needs is for this to translate into actual sales. “Initiatives like the NewBuy scheme are all well and good, but they need time to bed in and take effect and access to affordable mortgage finance is still very difficult for many first time buyers. “With the Autumn Statement around the corner, we would like to see the government continue to focus on delivering new homes and encouraging the banks to lend at affordable levels.”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
Page 7
Apprenticeship ‘brand’ worries
Export mission for Naylor TWO representatives of pipe manufacturer Naylor have just returned from an export sales mission to South East Asia. Edward Naylor, chief executive of the Cawthorne-based company, and technical manager Simon Marsh, gave a presentation on micro-tunnelling – a method of installing pipes without digging trenches. They gave the talk to the Institution of
Civil Engineers in Jakarta. Mr Naylor (left) and Simon Marsh (right) are pictured being presented with a pewter memento by the ICE’s Michael Dobie (centre). Naylor Industries plc is a leading manufacturer of building materials and specialised products with more than 100 years of production and supply experience to the construction industry. The group employs about 220 people – including a number from Kirklees.
Retail
High Street Huddersfield 359 m2 (3,862 sq ft) Large centrally located showroom/retail premises close to bus station. Could suit alternative use such as restaurant (STP)
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To LeT/MAY SeLL www.michaelsteel.co.uk
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All enquiries to Alec Michael at Michael Steel & Co on 0113 234 8999 or email alec@michaelsteel.co.uk
A BUILDING industry group has supported c a l l s fo r a c t i o n t o “restore the apprenticeship brand”. A report by MPs on the Business, Innovation and Skills Select Committee has called for a single definition of an apprentice – while recognising the crucial role of apprenticeships in p rov i d i n g va l u abl e employment opportunities and supporting sust a i n abl e e c o n o m i c growth. The Federation of Master Builders said the report echoed many of its recommendations. They include creating a single definition to clarify the apprenticeship brand and enable effective regulation as well as making sure they are employer-led and that qualifications are designed to equip the learner with the skills required by the sector. Employers in the construction industry also believe apprenticeships are the best way to learn a trade and levels of satisfaction from learners and employers are high. And they argue that a clear, single definition
of an apprenticeship would help remove inequalities in funding, training standards and achievements across different sectors. The FMB has consistently argued that the volume of apprenticeships must not be prioritised over quality – and the apprenticeship brand must not be put at risk because of an inconsistent approach to provision. Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said: “I congratulate the committee on a clear set of evidence-based recommendations. “The Government has already demonstrated its commitment to supporting apprenticeships and its aspiration to raise their status to put them on an equal footing with university. “Now we just need to ensure the commitment and the funding are applied in the most effective way possible. “I hope the Government will carefully consider each of the committee’s recommendations and I look forward to its formal response.”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Movers and shakers
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Company gets nine out of 10!
Charlie Spalding, Sophie Smith & Heleena Egan
Howarths EMPLOYMENT law specialist Howarths has expanded is team with three new appointments. The Cleckheaton-based firm has appointed Charlie Spalding (centre), who has more than 20 years experience in the legal and customer service industry, along with Sophie Smith (right) and Heleena Egan (left), who bring sales and marketing skills to the business. The appointments foreshadow further expansion plans for 2013 at the family-run company, which provides employment law advice, tribunal representation and management training to businesses throughout Yorkshire. Business development director Tracey Craven said: “As always, is it very exciting working at Howarths and the entire team is dedicated to continually building the business and improving our service to clients. To do this we understand the need to have the right people with the right skills in the right positions, and we are confident that we have found this in Charlie, Sophie and Heleena.”
STAFF at a Holme Valley accountancy firm are in safe hands – after nine out of its 10 employees gained safety qualifications. The members of staff at V&A Bell Brown were awarded certificates after successfully completing their Emergency First Aid at Work qualification. They completed the one-day EFAW course, which was delivered by Mike Shucksmith, of West Yorkshire Medical Services Ltd, which provides a wide range of statutory and vocational training to all types of businesses and organisations in the West Yorkshire area. The EFAW course consisted of a mix of theory and practical modules with the staff learning how best to deliver first aid in a variety of emergencies including choking, heart attacks and seizures. Company director Amanda Vigar said: “Having nine members of staff with the EFAW qualification is invaluable for the company. It raises us above the Health and Safety Executive’s minimum standards for the amount of first aiders and brings peace of mind whilst at work. “The only reason we didn’t achieve a full house for advanced H&S trained staff was due to a staff absence.” She added: “We had the training take place in our Holmfirth offices, so we could create situations that were as realistic as possible so we are prepared should we be required to use the training.”
■ HEALTH CHECK: Director Amanda Vigar (back, second left) with (back from left) admin support workers Dawn Ellis, accounts manager Trevor Cole, office manager Claire Sykes, account senior Steve Batty, accounts assistant Alison Acott and (front) accounts assistant Lucy Verrill, accounts senior Steven Whittacker and tax manager Nigel Bottomley
Firm’s transports of delight
Emily Raleigh
3M Buckley Innovation Centre EMILY Raleigh has been appointed PR consultant to help raise the profile of Huddersfield University’s new 3M Buckley Innovation Centre. Ms Raleigh (pictured) has the task of helping to attract businesses that would benefit from the centre’s ethos, by highlighting the state-of-the art facilities available, the flexible workspaces on offer and the access to financial, technical and commercial support. She previously worked for full-service communications agency Kindred and brings experience from both the private and public sectors, in particular the health, education and pharmaceutical sectors. The centre, funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Kirklees Council, is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built building that offers a range of support to assist dynamic business growth. It will help companies to penetrate national and international markets and houses the latest technology. It will make financial and commercial support accessible for all tenants and act as a catalyst to promote collaboration between businesses and higher education.
■ PRIZEWINNERS: Marc Buchanan and Vicki Davenport (centre) receive the award from Rachael Alpha, of Palletways Europe, and Martyn Young, Palletways UK managing director A HUDDERSFIELD company delivering palletised goods has been recognised for its work. Netherton-based distribution firm The Pink Link was presented with the award for Outstanding Commercial Contribution by palletised freight network Palletways. The Pink Link collects and delivers small consignments of palletised freight to customers in the Bradford, Huddersfield and Halifax postcode areas for the Palletways network. Vicki Davenport and Mark Buchanan, of The Pink Link, received the award for excellence in commercial management, which encompassed all aspects of sales, marketing and customer care. The award was presented by Martyn Young, Palletways UK managing director, during a Palletways sales conference at
the Williams F1 Conference Centre in Oxfordshire. The company fought off stiff competition to be just one of a handful of companies to be given an award at the conference – and the only one from the North of England. Vicki, who is sales and commercial manager at The Pink Link, said: “It was great to be recognised for all our efforts and we were delighted to win the award. “There are over 100 companies in the network and to be recognised as one of the top achieving companies for new business is fantastic.” Mr Young said: “We’d like to congratulate The Pink Link on the contribution they have made to new business and to help us to grow the network this year.”
Gerd Born
Windcrop SLAITHWAITE man Gerd Born has been appointed site assessor with Windcrop, a leading provider of small scale wind turbines. Mr Born (pictured) joined the Leeds-based company as one of four new appointments in the region. A further six are planned before the end of the year. Mr Born, originally from South Africa, built his career in sales before setting up home in the UK where he worked his way up from car showrooms to selling automotive related products. A second site assessor and two telesales staff have also been appointed at the Leeds office and general manager Richard Moody is actively recruiting for a third. Windcrop launched into Yorkshire in September. The firm has a strong and successful reputation in the East of the UK, which it hopes to replicate in Yorkshire. Mr Moody said: “I’m overseeing a recruitment drive that is expected to deliver rapid expansion in the next six months. Small wind energy is a great offer for farmers and private landowners. We’ve already had more than 25 orders from the region. It basically enables the landowner to generate ‘green’ electricity for free. With rising energy bills and talks of an energy crisis looming, generating your own power can make a big difference for the future of small landowners.”