FTSE 100
LAURA LAMBERT Arts and crafts movement
+4.81 5356.34
Full inter view - Page 3
WILL MORRIS Bring out the bunting Column - Page 5
An EXAMINER publication
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Waste charge rule change hits firms
TAX chiefs have been urged to go easy on Kirklees firms hit by changes to waste and recycling charges that came into effect this week. Rule changes introduced by the Treasury mean that waste materials going to landfill – and previously exempt from charges – are now subject to the full rate of landfill tax of £64 a tonne. Elland-based waste management firm Orchard Environmental said the changes would send shockwaves through industry. It said they could leave a big dent in many firms’ budgets – particularly those handling large volumes of waste and recycling material. A tax briefing document issued by HM Revenue & Customs on May 18 announced that material referred to as fines – a by-product of the recycling process – along with grit and screenings would no longer be classed as inert material, which attracts a lower £2.50 rate of landfill tax compared to the full £64 charge. Also, material known in the sector as the “top fluff layer” – which has previously been considered engineering material and exempt from tax – will now be taxed at the full landfill rate. The “top fluff layer” is material laid
about a metre thick and used to protect and stabilise the contents of a landfill site before it is “capped”. In addition, there is the possibility that Revenue & Customs may backdate the higher rate landfill tax obligation to 2009. The Treasury said the changes would help the Government meet European Union targets in 2013 and 2020 to reduce landfill waste. But Justin Holley, of Orchard Environmental, said the new tax rules would have a “significant and immediate” impact on the cost of waste disposal for Yorkshire businesses. “The sudden announcement has really shaken the industry and service providers are being forced to carry out a rapid review of the prices they charge their customers,” he said. “It will also have a big impact on firms like ours that manage multiple waste streams for businesses and focus heavily on agreeing prices with waste and recycling suppliers to help with budgeting and cash flow.” Mr Holley urged leniency from Revenue & Customs in view of the speed at which the changes had been introduced. He said: “These have been grey areas for some time and clarification has been expected.
online submission must still be made. “If HM Revenue & Customs is satisfied that the business is run by practising members of a religious society, whose beliefs prevent them from using computers, then they are also exempt. “But if these exemptions apply to a business then it is important that they confirm their position with Revenue & Customs and not assume that the exemption applies. “If a business was VAT registered before April 1, 2010, and was first required to submit online returns from April 1, 2012, they will be charged a penalty if a paper return is submitted for the accounting periods ending on
Boss on the run! CAMPER van manufacturer Wellhouse Leisure has won an award recognising its impressive growth record in difficult market conditions. And David Elliott, managing director of the Shepley-based firm, has also been commended by law firm Eaton Smith for his achievement in running 22 marathons during 2011 and this year to raise thousands of pounds for charity.
● Full story - Page 8
■ RUBBISH PLAN: New tax rules will have a “significant and immediate” impact on the cost of waste disposal, says Elland’s Orchard Environment
“But the sudden introduction of the changes has given the waste and recycling industry very little time to adapt its business models and factor in costs into their current budgets.” Mr Holley said the new rules come on the back of landfill tax rises of £8 per tonne which were introduced on April 1 – and warned that costs were set to rise further over the next two years. “The Government has been raising
the tax steadily year-on-year in an effort to encourage reduced dependence on landfill,” he said. “By 2014, businesses will be paying £80 a tonne for general landfill.” Orchard Environmental is part of energy management business Orchard Energy, which has offices in Elland, Glasgow, Cardiff, Newcastle and Bristol and counts care homes, sports complexes and shopping centres among its clients.
Get online to file VAT returns, warns expert A KIRKLEES accountancy firm has warned businesses that they must now file VAT returns online and pay any VAT due electronically to avoid penalties from the taxman. Nigel Westman, partner of Clough & Company in Cleckheaton, said: “Most VAT registered businesses have been required to submit their VAT returns online since April, 2010, but these new rules which came into effect on the April 1, 2012, mean that all businesses must now do so. “The only businesses exempt are those subject to an insolvency procedure but – if the business is subject to an approved Voluntary Arrangement, administration or trust deed – an
INSIDE
or after March 31, 2013.” In addition to submitting VAT returns online, businesses must also pay any VAT due electronically. Said Mr Westman: “This generally gives businesses up to seven extra calendar days to submit their return and pay their VAT. There are some exceptions to this rule – for example, businesses which file annual returns and make payments on account.” Businesses can pay the VAT due by Direct Debit, online, via telephone banking or by cheque at a bank or building society using a Bank Giro paying-in slip which must be obtained from Revenue & Customs.
■ PENALTY: Nigel Westman, of Clough & Company in Cleckheaton
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Training success AN apprentice at Britain’s largest manufacturer of horse boxes has galloped off with a training award. Alexander Lee, who works at Meltham-based Equi-trek, won the Apprentice of the Year Award at the Virtual College’s YP Training Awards 2012. More than 150 guests attended the ninth annual YP Training Awards, which were held in Leeds.
● Full story - Page 4
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
national
Drinks firm Diageo toasts £300m deal DRINKS firm Diageo has unveiled a £300m deal that will see it acquire a leading brand of Brazil’s national drink. Cachaca, which is made from sugar cane, has its roots as a working man’s drink but is now increasingly popular with middle-class consumers, particularly in the cocktail caipirinha. The deal with Ypioca gives Diageo the second-biggest cachaca brand by revenue and the third biggest by volume, with net sales of about £60m in 2011. The acquisition of the so-called “Brazilian rum” marks an expansion in Diageo’s Latin American business, which already sells Venezuelan dark rums Cacique and Pampero and distributes Mexico’s leading tequila brand Jose Cuervo. Chief executive Paul Walsh said: “Brazil is an attractive, fast growing market with favourable demographics
and increasing disposable incomes. “This acquisition gives us the leading premium brand in the largest local spirits category. “It will also provide Diageo with an enhanced platform from which to accelerate the long term growth of our premium international spirits brands in Brazil.” Diageo reported 23% net sales growth in Latin America in its half year results to December, 2011, the greatest jump across all regions worldwide. The acquisition will more than double the Brazilian business for Diageo, whose current cachaca offering comprises only the small Nega Fulo brand. Ypioca is popular among Brazil’s burgeoning middle class which is expected to make up 57% of the population by 2014, said Diageo Latin America and Caribbean president Randy Millian.
■ WET SALES: Diageo has added to its stable of brands, including Guinness, with a £300m deal with Brazilian cachaca brand Ypioca
Director takes the chair
Production gap for mining firm ONE of the few remaining deep coal mines in the UK faces a lengthy production gap as a result of unprecedented geological conditions. Hargreaves Services said work on preparing a new panel for use at Maltby Colliery in Rotherham later this year has been suspended due to the significant ingress of water, oil, gas and other hydrocarbons. The conditions, which are believed to have never happened before in Maltby’s 100-year history, will result in a gap between production panels of 12 to 16 weeks and knock £16m from Hargreaves profits for next year. Its shares closed down 299p at
Diageo is the world's leading premium drinks business with a wide range of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, beer and wine. Its brands include Johnnie Walker, C r o w n Ro y a l , J e B , W i n d s o r, Buchanan’s and Bushmills whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Baileys, Captain Morgan, Jose Cuervo, Tanqueray and Guinness. Its products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange. Ypioca is a leading premium cachaca brand in Brazil, with more than 160 years of heritage. Diageo’s acquisition of the Ypioca brand will include a distillery, bottling plant and warehousing. Ypioca has an 8% share of the total cachaca market at 6.6m nine-litre cases. Diageo shares closed flat at 1513p.
760p or 28%, although the company insisted the situation would not have an impact on the long term viability of the mine. Production division director Gerry Huitson said: “No one on the mining team, including our independent expert geologist with 32 years experience at many different UK mines, has come across these conditions before. “We will revise the mining plans to avoid this locality and it is highly unlikely that these conditions will be found again in any subsequent panels.” Maltby produces more than one million tonnes of coal per year.
INSURER Prudential has ended its five-month hunt for a new chairman by appointing the board member who was initially charged with leading the search. Paul Manduca at first ruled himself out of the process, but was subsequently invited to put his name forward as a candidate to replace Harvey McGrath. The Pru’s senior independent director, who handed over responsibility for the search to fellow board member Lord Turnbull, has sat on the Pru board since October, 2010. He founded of Threadneedle Asset Management in 1994 and has been
chief executive at Rothschild Asset Management and Deutsche Asset Management. He will step down from his position as chairman of Aon UK in order to reduce his commitments and “make Prudential his principal focus”. Mr Manduca will assume the £600,000-a-year position on July 2, taking over from Mr McGrath who announced his decision to step down in December following flak over the Pru’s failed £22bn bid for Asian insurer AIA in 2010. Lord Turnbull said Mr Manduca would be an “excellent” chairman for the insurer.
Page 2 Search for chief A PROVIDER of finance to social enterprises across northern England is seeking a new chief executive. Current incumbent Ann Oldroyd has announced she is to retire after 10 years’ service at the Key Fund. Alistair Grimes, chairman of the Key Fund board, said: “Ann’s contribution over the last 10 years has been invaluable.” He added: “We’re looking for a new CEO who has the energy, passion and vision to secure and invest a capital base sufficient to meet growing market demands. “Our next phase of development aims to place the Key Fund as the first choice funder for this growing sector.” In the past 12 years, the Sheffield-based Key Fund has supported more than 2,000 organisations and invested more than £26m across the UK.
Blood money FILM distributor Entertainment One hailed the success of the fourth instalment in the vampire romance The Twilight Saga as it posted higher sales and profits. The firm reported a 33% rise in pre-tax profits to £43m in the year to March 31as its film division lift revenues by 17% to £272m. Animated children’s favourite Peppa Pig was also a major contributor.
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £35.58 Gannett 827.49 Hess Corp £29.77 Microsoft 1852.61 Motors Liquidation 47.81 Wal-Mart Stores £41.64 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Avon Rbbr 2991/2 BAE Systems 275 Rolls-Royce 8151/2 AIM Brady Plc 82 Dawson Intl 11/4 Man Brnze 251/2 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 185 BANKS Barclays 181 HSBC 5103/8 Lloyds Banking Gp 26 Ryl Scotland 21 Stan Chart 1329 BEVERAGES Diageo 15131/2 SABMiller £237/8 CHEMICALS Croda £221/8 Elementis 98 2065/8 Johnsn Mat £213/4 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2753/8
Costain
-1/8 +25/8 +8
3
+ /4 +21/4 -3/4 -31/2 +1/4 +1/8 +2 -1/2 -1/8 +3/8 +15/8 +1/4 +1/4
198 -2 ELECTRICITY Drax Gp 562 +11/2 Intl Power 4133/4 -1/4 SSE 1348 -11 ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Laird 1853/4 +33/4 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 342 +1/4 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 2051/4 -11/8 Cable & Wireless 311/8 -3/8 Comm 1 Cable & Wireless 34 /4 +1/8 Wwide Colt Group 1123/4 -1/4 KCOM 681/8 +1/2 3 Talktalk Telecom 154 /4 +1/4 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS Morrison W 2731/4 +1/4 Sainsbury 2935/8 -17/8 1 Tesco 304 /2 -5 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 1176 -4 Tate Lyle 6731/2 +4 Unilever £201/4 -1/8 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 3111/4 -13/8 National Grid 6781/2 -6 Pennon Grp 729 +1 Severn 1680 -21 United Utils 647 -2
GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 1723/8 +21/8 ICAP 3433/4 +21/2 London StockExch 970 +6 Man Group 73 -1/4 Provident Financial 1095 +17 Schroders 1198 +4 Schroders NV 9981/2 +31/2 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS Cooksn Grp 645 +51/2 REXAM 4003/4 +81/4 Smiths Grp 1027 +12 GENERAL RETAILERS Ashley L 231/2 +3/4 Carphone Whse 1293/4 Dixons Retail 15 +1 Home Retail 771/2 +3/8 Inchcape 3151/2 -7/8 Kingfisher 2747/8 -5 1 M&S 345 /4 -25/8 Mothercare 192 Next £297/8 -1/8 WH Smith 5021/2 +71/4 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 6101/2 +5 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 691/4 +1/4 Barrat Dev 1185/8 +23/4 Persimmon 568 +171/2 Reckitt Benckiser £341/8 -1/8 5 Taylor Wimpey 41 /8 +11/4 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING IMI 895 +15
INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 2161/4 +93/4 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BBA Aviation 199 LIFE INSURANCE Aviva 2697/8 +11/2 Lgl & Gen 1103/4 -1/8 3 Old Mutual 143 /8 +3/4 Prudential 684 +1/2 Resolution 1991/2 -27/8 3 Standard Life 205 /4 MEDIA BSkyB 6911/2 -71/2 D Mail Tst 3963/8 -1/4 ITV 79 +23/8 1 Johnston Press 7 /8 +1/8 Pearson 1154 +12 Reed Elsevier 492 +41/4 STV Group 102 +5 Trinity Mirror 27 -1/2 Utd Business 536 +81/2 UTV 125 WPP 795 +13 Yell Group 13/4 MINING Anglo American £201/8 +1/8 Antofagasta 1038 +21 BHP Billiton 17161/2 +13 Eurasian Natural 456 +53/4 Res Fresnillo 1322 +5 Kazakhmys 6901/2 +101/2 Lonmin 746 +17 +5/8 Rio Tinto £285/8
Local shares Carclo Marshalls National Grid Weir Gp
3853/4 88 6781/2 1614
+103/4 +3 -6 +62
closed at at FTSE closed
5456.34 Up 4.81 VEDANTA 9721/2 +6 RESOURCES 3 +271/4 Xstrata 939 /4 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES Inmarsat 4093/8 +87/8 Vodafone Group 1725/8 -1/2 NONLIFE INSURANCE Admiral Grp 1128 +12 RSA Insurance Gp 1005/8 OIL & GAS PRODUCERS BG 1263 -31/2 BP 3993/4 -75/8 Cairn Energy 2891/2 +21/4 1 Royal Dutch Shell A £20 /8 Royal Dutch Shell B £207/8
Total £28 -1/8 Tullow Oil 1432 +37 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES AMEC 9941/2 +3 Petrofac 1562 -15 1 -5 Wood Gp(J) 705 /2 PERSONAL GOODS Burberry Gp 1401 +29 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £261/8 -1/8 GlaxoSmithK XD 141/2 Shire 1896 -1 REAL ESTATE Brit Land 4973/4 +3 Captl Shop Cent 318 +1/2 Hamrsn 4221/8 Land Secs 7171/2 +61/2 SEGRO 2197/8 -1/2 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Invensys 2163/4 +23/4 Logica 67 +11/8 3 Misys 349 /4 +1/2 Sage Group 2553/4 +21/4 SUPPORT SERVICES Berendsen 4803/8 +83/4 Bunzl 1017 +11 Capita 629 +18 De La Rue 1009 +6 Electrocomp 2003/8 +13/8 Experian 907 +4 G4S 2803/4 +47/8 Hays 72 +7/8 Homeserve 146 +4
Menzies J 595 Rentokil 773/4 Smiths News 951/4 Wolseley £23 IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs 5011/2 Psion 567/8 Spirent Comms 1581/4 TOBACCO Br Am Tob £301/2 Imperial Tobacco £237/8 LEISURE & HOTELS Bwin.Party Digital 1261/2 Carnival £207/8 Compass Grp 6371/2 easyJet 495 Enterprise Inns 66 FirstGroup 2211/8 Go-Ahead Gp 1127 Greene King 483 Intercontl Htls 1432 Intl Cons Airlines 1371/8 Gp Ladbrokes 166 Mitchells & Butlers 2291/8 Natl Express 1925/8 Rank Org 1191/2 Stagecoach Group 237 TUI Travel 1673/4 Whitbread 1860 INDEX FTSE 100 5356.34 INDEX FTSE 250 10515.28
+61/2 +1/2 +1/4 +1/8 +101/4 -1/8 +5/8
-1/8 +11/2 +31/2 +5 +1/2 +21/4 +16 +3 +20 -33/4 +41/8 +15/8 +7/8 -1 +2 +21/4 +39 +4.81 +97.76
TOURIST RATES Tourists going abroad can expect the following rates for sterling: Australia...................... 1.51 dollars Bangladesh................. 121.21 taka Brazil.............................. 2.78 reals Canada....................... 1.53 dollars China ............................. 8.90 yuan Czech Republic ...... 28.88 korunas Denmark....................... 8.79 krone Euro............................... 1.19 euro Hong Kong................ 11.56 dollars Hungary................... 331.87 forints India.......................... 76.44 rupees Japan........................... 118.64 yen Mexico ....................... 19.61 pesos New Zealand .............. 1.91 dollars Norway ......................... 8.94 krone Pakistan.................. 135.97 rupees Philippines ................. 58.46 pesos South Africa................. 12.19 rand South Korea.............. 1621.00 won Sri Lanka ................ 193.79 rupees Sweden....................... 10.68 krona Switzerland.................. 1.43 francs Taiwan ...................... 40.55 dollars Turkey....................... 2.73 new lira USA ............................ 1.50 dollars
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
profile
Crafty move suits Laura IT’S a change of pace that took some getting used to – but Laura Lambert is really glad she made the move! The 30-year-old mother-of-two enjoyed a hectic career as a project manager working for drinks brand Bacardi until moving to Huddersfield because of her husband Richard’s job. She worked – unhappily, she admits – as a secretary with the NHS for almost four years before going on maternity leave and deciding that she wouldn’t be coming back! Now she has discovered how to put her creative talents to good use running her own business, Small & Gifted, making and supplying personalised wooden and fabric products for children and the home. The handmade items include door plaques, wall letters, photo frames, clocks and items for weddings, christenings and other special occasions. “The NHS job was only a stop-gap,” says Laura. “I suppose it was a bit of a backward step after my previous job and I certainly didn’t like working in the public sector. “When I went on maternity leave I didn’t want to come back because I wasn’t enjoying it.” Initially, she took up a franchise opportunity providing 3D castings of children’s feet and hands as a keepsake for parents. But she says: “It was a lot of work for very little money. I was living and breathing it 24-7, so I cut my losses and looked for something else. “We know several people
with unusual names, who were saying how difficult it was to buy personalised gifts. I thought: ‘I could do this’. I would be working for myself from home and I could work around my children. “I started researching suppliers online. I knew what I wanted to make, but it was a case of finding the materials. “I set up on Facebook, selling to my friends and within a couple of weeks it was obvious it was going to be successful.” Since its launch in March last year, the business has trebled its turnover and now employs two part-time staff to help keep up with the orders – an average of 400 are sent out each month. Says Laura: “I’ve always been artistic, although I’m no good at drawing! I used to do cross-stitching and making my own cards. As a child, I was always making
■ HOMEWORK: Laura Lambert in her studio at the family’s Linthwaite home
things.” Laura’s working day starts at 9am after she has dropped off oldest son Jacob at the nursery and continues until 3pm when she goes to collect him. The evenings involve dealing with email and orders. Weekends are strictly family time to be spent with husband Richard, who is the professional at nearby Crosland Heath Golf Club, and the boys – not forgetting family cat, Sinbad. “I have always said that the business shouldn’t be to the detriment of the children,” says Laura. Laura works in a small studio amid paint pots and artists’ materials. “You also have to very disciplined working from home,” she says. “I don’t do any housework during ‘working hours’ – although I’ll play some music when I’m working on my own. It’s quite therapeutic.” Working at the family’s Linthwaite home has taken some getting used to, Laura admits. “I worked for a full marketing agency managing the Bacardi account,” she says. “I worked on things like the Bacardi Christmas drive, setting up displays in supermarkets and taking charge of temporary staff recruitment for promotions. I was part of a team working with a lot of other people. “When I set up Small & Gifted in March last year I worked on my own for a long time. I found it quite lonely and it was difficult to adapt, but now I have two staff. We get the work done, but we also have a giggle.” Laura has plans to develop the business by selling her items in local
Page 3
Laura Lambert Role: Proprietor Age: 30 Family: Married to Richard with sons Jacob, five, and Leo, three Holidays: Centre Parcs and Majorca Car: Audi A3 First job: Working as a waitress at my dad’s fish and chip shop Best thing about job: I enjoy being my own boss Worst thing about job: Trying to strike the right work-life balance Business tip: Be unique
independent gift shops as well as expanding online sales, but she adds: “I need to keep it under control. “If you get too big the danger is that customer service suffers. I don’t want to lose the personal touch. “A lot of the reason my customers buy from me is because they know me,” she says. “They can ring me or call round to see what I’m doing. People know I am a working mum and they can relate to that.” Facebook has proved a great way to do business. Customers use it to keep in touch with Laura and other online friends – not just about their orders, but to share gossip, family news and pictures. Says Laura: “It’s fabulous making money and being your own boss, but a work-life balance is hard to maintain.” She says: “Our lead time for orders is three weeks. I want to reduce that, but it is difficult. “In a corporate environment, there is always someone to pick up the slack. “Customer service is important, so we always keep customers informed about progress. “Christmas and Mother’s Day are the busiest times. “Last year, demand for Christmas gifts took us completely by surprise. We had between 1,200 and 1,500 orders. This year, we will shut our Christmas order book in November.”
Laura was born in Grimsby before moving to Lincolnshire. “I didn’t want to go to university, she says. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I was at school. I ‘aced’ all my grades at A-level, but university was not for me.” Now she thinks it would be difficult to return to her former career. “If I wanted to go back to project management, I would have to have a degree,” she says. “But people without degrees are often better candidates because they have experience. At 18, I was already working and getting that experience. Now I would have to be at university.” She adds: “I do sometimes miss the structure of working in an office – but I don’t miss the office politics. I love having my own business.”
Small & Gifted Work: Personalised handmade wooden and fabric products for children and the home Site: Linthwaite Phone: 0783 4421148 Email: info@small andgifted.co.uk Website: www.smallandgifted .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
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
profile
Crafty move suits Laura IT’S a change of pace that took some getting used to – but Laura Lambert is really glad she made the move! The 30-year-old mother-of-two enjoyed a hectic career as a project manager working for drinks brand Bacardi until moving to Huddersfield because of her husband Richard’s job. She worked – unhappily, she admits – as a secretary with the NHS for almost four years before going on maternity leave and deciding that she wouldn’t be coming back! Now she has discovered how to put her creative talents to good use running her own business, Small & Gifted, making and supplying personalised wooden and fabric products for children and the home. The handmade items include door plaques, wall letters, photo frames, clocks and items for weddings, christenings and other special occasions. “The NHS job was only a stop-gap,” says Laura. “I suppose it was a bit of a backward step after my previous job and I certainly didn’t like working in the public sector. “When I went on maternity leave I didn’t want to come back because I wasn’t enjoying it.” Initially, she took up a franchise opportunity providing 3D castings of children’s feet and hands as a keepsake for parents. But she says: “It was a lot of work for very little money. I was living and breathing it 24-7, so I cut my losses and looked for something else. “We know several people
with unusual names, who were saying how difficult it was to buy personalised gifts. I thought: ‘I could do this’. I would be working for myself from home and I could work around my children. “I started researching suppliers online. I knew what I wanted to make, but it was a case of finding the materials. “I set up on Facebook, selling to my friends and within a couple of weeks it was obvious it was going to be successful.” Since its launch in March last year, the business has trebled its turnover and now employs two part-time staff to help keep up with the orders – an average of 400 are sent out each month. Says Laura: “I’ve always been artistic, although I’m no good at drawing! I used to do cross-stitching and making my own cards. As a child, I was always making
■ HOMEWORK: Laura Lambert in her studio at the family’s Linthwaite home
things.” Laura’s working day starts at 9am after she has dropped off oldest son Jacob at the nursery and continues until 3pm when she goes to collect him. The evenings involve dealing with email and orders. Weekends are strictly family time to be spent with husband Richard, who is the professional at nearby Crosland Heath Golf Club, and the boys – not forgetting family cat, Sinbad. “I have always said that the business shouldn’t be to the detriment of the children,” says Laura. Laura works in a small studio amid paint pots and artists’ materials. “You also have to very disciplined working from home,” she says. “I don’t do any housework during ‘working hours’ – although I’ll play some music when I’m working on my own. It’s quite therapeutic.” Working at the family’s Linthwaite home has taken some getting used to, Laura admits. “I worked for a full marketing agency managing the Bacardi account,” she says. “I worked on things like the Bacardi Christmas drive, setting up displays in supermarkets and taking charge of temporary staff recruitment for promotions. I was part of a team working with a lot of other people. “When I set up Small & Gifted in March last year I worked on my own for a long time. I found it quite lonely and it was difficult to adapt, but now I have two staff. We get the work done, but we also have a giggle.” Laura has plans to develop the business by selling her items in local
Page 3
Laura Lambert Role: Proprietor Age: 30 Family: Married to Richard with sons Jacob, five, and Leo, three Holidays: Centre Parcs and Majorca Car: Audi A3 First job: Working as a waitress at my dad’s fish and chip shop Best thing about job: I enjoy being my own boss Worst thing about job: Trying to strike the right work-life balance Business tip: Be unique
independent gift shops as well as expanding online sales, but she adds: “I need to keep it under control. “If you get too big the danger is that customer service suffers. I don’t want to lose the personal touch. “A lot of the reason my customers buy from me is because they know me,” she says. “They can ring me or call round to see what I’m doing. People know I am a working mum and they can relate to that.” Facebook has proved a great way to do business. Customers use it to keep in touch with Laura and other online friends – not just about their orders, but to share gossip, family news and pictures. Says Laura: “It’s fabulous making money and being your own boss, but a work-life balance is hard to maintain.” She says: “Our lead time for orders is three weeks. I want to reduce that, but it is difficult. “In a corporate environment, there is always someone to pick up the slack. “Customer service is important, so we always keep customers informed about progress. “Christmas and Mother’s Day are the busiest times. “Last year, demand for Christmas gifts took us completely by surprise. We had between 1,200 and 1,500 orders. This year, we will shut our Christmas order book in November.”
Laura was born in Grimsby before moving to Lincolnshire. “I didn’t want to go to university, she says. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I was at school. I ‘aced’ all my grades at A-level, but university was not for me.” Now she thinks it would be difficult to return to her former career. “If I wanted to go back to project management, I would have to have a degree,” she says. “But people without degrees are often better candidates because they have experience. At 18, I was already working and getting that experience. Now I would have to be at university.” She adds: “I do sometimes miss the structure of working in an office – but I don’t miss the office politics. I love having my own business.”
Small & Gifted Work: Personalised handmade wooden and fabric products for children and the home Site: Linthwaite Phone: 0783 4421148 Email: info@small andgifted.co.uk Website: www.smallandgifted .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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KIRKLEES BUSIN
Greek tragedy set for final act
HIS year, we have taken an T optimistic position on the outlook for the global eco-
nomy. Our view has been that the combination of an improving American picture and a “soft landing” in China would provide a solid platform to overcome a European recession. The latter always appeared likely as austerity measures took hold, but we have judged that recession would be prevented from becoming depression by the emergency liquidity measures enacted by the European Central Bank at the end of 2011. The media is now full of cataclysmic predictions as to the consequences of Greece’s almost inevitable exit from the eurozone and we must decide whether this probability changes our own more sanguine expectations. We are monitoring the situation closely, but for now the answer is no. Our reasoning is as follows: Our expectations for Europe have long envisioned a recession this year. The question is whether a Greek exit from the euro would precipitate something worse. Many eminent investment strategists and economists express fear that the resulting shock would be a European equivalent of the Lehman’s bankruptcy. We side with those who believe that the consequences for the rest of Europe are manageable, if perhaps uncomfortable in the short term. The potential damage from a Greek exit for much of the past two years has been high, not because of the direct economic impact upon its neighbours of the depression in Greece itself that would immediately follow, but because it was an integrated part of the European financial system.
CITY TALK Simon Kaye
Despite the fact that Greece still uses the euro as its functional currency, in practical terms this is no longer the case. The tortuous road that has been travelled to reach this point has given banks, corporations and investors plenty of time and incentive to disengage from Greece or to build up reserves against this moment. The risks (in terms of capital loss) now lie with the ECB and the rescue funds (the IMF included) who have supported the Greek government over the past two years in the absence of a liquid public market for their debt. They can afford it or can be quickly recapitalised. The more difficult transmission mechanism to dismiss, the one that should be most feared, is fear itself. The bears’ argument is that once Greece leaves, European credibility will be lost and markets will move on to the next weakest eurozone members with a vengeance, threatening the entire European edifice. Undeniably, should Greece leave the union, there will be a period when so called bond-vigilantes and the “frightened money” crowd come together to test the resolve of central bankers to defend the remaining members. Nevertheless in our opinion a domino effect is very far from inevitable. However large the financing problems of the other troubled
countries, their problems are much smaller than those of Greece. Furthermore, Portugal, Ireland, Spain and Italy all have governments that function. With popular acceptance (if not enthusiasm) they have instituted fiscal reform measures. They collect their taxes. With the possible exception of Portugal, they have practical industrial bases that can benefit from any relative devaluation achieved within the eurozone, either “internally” through domestic deflation, or externally through higher German inflation. These foundations also provide fertile ground for more pro-growth (investment-seeding) policies to take root. Finally these countries are not trying to hold the rest of Europe to ransom. In short, they are worth saving and can be saved. Since it is no longer defending the indefensible, if Europe has the will and acts with resolution in any post-exit period, it should be possible to calm investors’ nerves quite quickly, turning their appetite from fear to greed and preventing a domino effect. Indeed, if Europe grasps the nettle and cuts off support for Greece, the result (if politicians make the right choices) could be the salvation rather than the damnation of the euro.
Simon Kaye is divisional director at Investec Wealth & Investment
Local businesses ‘best’ MOST people in Britain believe that independent and local businesses provide the best service, a survey has revealed. And more than half of UK consumers are willing to spend as much as 11% extra with a company if they get good customer service, according to the latest Global Customer Service Barometer from American Express. The survey showed that 81% of consumers in the UK believe that small independent or local businesses provide the best customer service experience – as
they excel in the knowledge of the products or services they provide and understand the needs of their customers. Two-thirds of UK consumers said they were willing to spend more for products and services provided by a company that offers excellent customer service. On average, these consumers would be willing to pay 11% more on a product or service, although one in 10 said that they would pay as much as 20%. Simon Chrisp, head of customer service at American Express, said: “When customers know that
a company is listening to them and addressing their needs quickly and responsively, they will not only spend more – they will spread the word to others as well. “Great customer service is great business and a competitive advantage when done right. In the UK, more than one in five people have said that they would simply refuse to do business with a company that provides poor service. “Only consumers in Australia and Japan are seen to be more discerning.”
Alex lands top training award
AN apprentice working for Britain’s largest manufacturer o horse boxes has galloped off with a training award. Alexander Lee (above), who works at Meltham-based Equi-trek, won the Apprentice o the Year Award at the Virtual College’s YP Training Awards 2012. More than 150 guests from manufacturing companies across the north of England attended the ninth annual YP Training Awards, which were held at the Leeds Marriott hote The awards are made for significant efficiency improvements among manufacturing companies and also recognise outstanding contributions from individual employees and apprentices. Oliver Halstead, quality manag at Equi-trek, said: ”All our apprentices have been doing well, but Alex has excelled at every job he has been given. H is, without a doubt, the epitome of what we were looking for when we said yes to an apprentice programme.” Richard Prince, factory manage and Alex’s direct mentor, said: “it was a great night and we are proud of everything Alex has achieved.” Alex said: “I was really pleased to attend the evening and colle the award. I am enjoying both the practical and learning aspects of working at Equi-trek YP Training’s divisional directo Alistair Gladstone, said: “Our training delivery for apprentice complements traditional face-to-face training with e-learning which is second nature for learners who have grown up with the latest technology.” The awards were sponsored by qualification awarding body EMTA Awards Ltd. YP Training is part of Virtual College, the UK’s leading e-learning provider with 15 years' experience and more tha 750,000 online learners. YP Training provides productivity improvement training and apprenticeship recruitment and training to the manufacturing and industrial sector.
NESS NEWS
Enjoy the Jubilee fun RISKY BUSINESS
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Will Morris
HE Jubilee weekend will shortly be T upon us and many people will be hosting street parties and other celeb-
rations. The Government has stressed it’s desire that celebrations for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee should go ahead unhindered by bogus health and safety restrictions. And people planning and organising street parties and celebrations in their neighbourhoods are being urged to challenge anyone who wrongly cites health and safety as an excuse to ban or place restrictions on certain events. The Health and Safety Executive has published online tips for the Jubilee that give advice about common misconceptions, and offers support in the shape of its “Myth Busters Challenge Panel” to help address any silly restrictions that people may come across.
This follows guidance from the Department for Communities and Local Government about how successful local events could be organised with the minimum of bureaucratic fuss. There is nothing in health and safety law to stop you celebrating in June. If you think someone is wrongfully using health and safety you can seek advice from the Myth Busters Challenge Panel. Often, health and safety is invoked wrongly to disguise a person's real motives -–an unwillingness to honestly defend an unpopular decision, concern over costs or complexity of running an event or worries about potential civil liability claims. Kirklees Council’s website offers some useful advice on planning your Jubilee celebrations along with information on planned events.
Will Morris is risk management consultant at Wilby Ltd
Committed to saving EMPLOYERS and employees across Kirklees have been urged to get saving. Castle & Minster Credit Union is promoting its save-as-you-earn scheme where employees can nominate an affordable amount to be deducted from their pay and deposited in a credit union savings account. The credit union, which works with organisations including Kirklees Council, NHS Kirklees, Kirklees College and West Yorkshire
Fire and Rescue, already has about 1,000 members – 12% of all its members – saving in this way. A spokesman said: “Business can benefit from introducing payroll deduction in the work place as it demonstrates they are a committed employer. “It can lead to improved employee health and sickness absenteeism by taking the stress out of money management. “It has low set up costs, can help attract and retain quality employees, help
meet company community ethos, provides good public relations and demonstrates support for the local community and economy.” Employees benefit from instant access to savings, reduced dependence on high interest “pay day loans” and other features such as free life insurance on savings and loans. Castle & Minster has five branches across the district, including ones at Civic Centre 1 in Huddersfield and Dewsbury Town Hall.
Director help for firms A NEW service to help companies find prospective independent non-executive directors has been launched by the Institute of Directors. The NXD Directory has won the backing of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills as it aims to bolster resources for medium-sized companies. Mark Prisk, minister for business and enterprise,
said: “Becoming a non-executive director or having one in your company is one of the best ways of sharing skills, experience and business acumen.” More than 2,000 IoD members have asked to join the Directory as NXD candidates. The list includes chartered directors, experienced directors of multi-nationals and
successful entrepreneurs. Companies, trusts or school boards looking for non-executive directors will pay an administration fee of just £100 and will be carefully matched up with up to 10 possible candidates. The only requirement for firms using the service is that at least one member of the board must be a member of the IoD.
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Company on its metal to light up Queen’s Jubilee A HOLME Valley firm is helping light up the landscape for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Bank Holiday Monday will see a network of more than 4,000 beacons lit by communities across the UK to celebrate the Queen’s 60 years on the throne. And Honley-based metal fabrications firm Allsops Ltd has worked with Kirklees Council to produce one of the beacons and modify the existing one atop Castle Hill. Friends of Cliff Rec approached Allsops managing director Paul Goodwin to ask if the company could help its project to light a beacon at the recreation ground at Wooldale. Production director Lyndon Tyas and design engineer Adrian Bould visited the recreation ground then proceeded to design and manufacture the beacon before delivering it to Birkby-based Walker Timber where the bottom stand has been completed. Meanwhile, the beacon at Castle Hill has been modified completely with the firm working in partnership with Kirklees Council. Allsops also provided plaques to be fitted to the base of the beacons commemorating the diamond jubilee. A spokeswoman said: “Allsops supplies products all around the world, but Paul wanted to give something back to the local community.” Allsops is one of the largest manufacturers of sheet metal in the area with more than 120 employees.
■ HOT METAL: The jubilee beacon made by Allsops Ltd Allsops Ltd, formed in 1959, provides steel and aluminium components for customers in a wide range of industries, including global names in sectors such as food processing, retailing, electronics, logistics, utilities, defence, transport, pharmaceuticals and waste water treatment.
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Final unit sold at Springwell 27 A BUSINESS park at Birstall has sold its last remaining phase one unit. Advanced Dyeing Solutions has bought the final unit (above) – measuring 6,850sq ft – in phase one of the Springwell 27 scheme. With all 11 units now sold within phase one, a planning application has been submitted to increase the amount of accommodation in the second phase from 26,000sq ft to 30,000sq ft. During the early stages of the project, Ocado selected the site to house its 10,500sq ft regional distribution depot. On the back of that, joint developers Gregory Property Group and Eshton Property Development – under the Eshton Gregory name – built phase one, which provided about 30,000sq ft of small units. More than 200 jobs have been created at Springwell 27 over the past three years – with deals agreed with operators including Floorbrite, UPVC Maintainance, K R Hannaford, DSP Electrical and used JCB specialist T C Harrison Group. Richard Tovey, director of Eshton Gregory, said, “The success of phase one at Springwell 27 serves to reinforce its excellent location. “With all units now sold we are in a strong position to release the second phase of the scheme.” Phase two will offer design-and-build opportunities ranging from 10,000sq ft to 30,000sq ft. Springwell 27 is an eight-acre development alongside Birstall Retail Park close to junction 27 of the M62. Joint marketing agents are Carter Jonas and Dove Haigh Phillips.
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Sunshine greets TV weatherman
TELEVISION weatherman Jon Mitchell heard about the outlook for renewable energy when he visited a Brighouse-based business. The ITV forecaster was special guest at renewable energy company Ploughcroft’s open day at its Eco Roof Visitor Centre. Managing director Chris Hopkins welcomed Jon and other visitors to the event and gave a presentation about the company’s journey from a roofing company to the UK’s leading installer of solar photovoltaic panels and other renewable technologies. He also explained about his appearance on BBC TV’s Dragons Den when he secured investment from Deborah Meaden and Theo Paphitis. He also spoke about being chosen to represent small and medium-sized firms on the Government’s Green Construction Board. Jon said: “It was great to join Ploughcroft to find out more about the renewable energy systems they offer. “It was really interesting to hear about the background and history of the company and to see all the different technologies on show at their Eco Roof Visitor Centre.” Visitors to the event were able to discuss the latest renewable technologies, including solar, thermal, energy management systems, wind turbines and air source heat pumps. Also on display at the open day was Ploughcroft’s latest addition to its capabilities – in the
■ SOLAR SITE: Ploughcroft's Chris Hopkins (right) with weatherman Jon Mitchell
form of the Wall Pod electric vehicle charging stations. Ploughcroft is the UK’s only approved installer of WallPod electric vehicle charging technology for UK homes and businesses. Mr Hopkins said: “This was a really worthwhile event and we had lots of interest from
potential customers about our renewable energy systems, especially solar PV which just goes to show that homeowners are still looking to generate an income from their roof. “It was really good to welcome Jon Mitchell.”
Student among award finalists
■ STANDARD: Clare Danahay, of the WiP
A STUDENT from Huddersfield University is among 10 young women shortlisted for a top property award. Margaret Watson, who is studying architectural technology and interior design at the university, joins the Yorkshire and North East regional finalists in the Association of Women in Property 2012 National Student Award Programme. The winner, who will be chosen by a panel of judges, will be announced on June 27 and will go forward to the “Best of the Best” national competition in London in September.
Clare Danahay, who chairs the Association of Women in Property Yorkshire and North East branch, said: “The awards are now in their sixth year, but this year they are very special as it is the 25th anniversary of WiP. “The standard has been higher than ever. The students are the rising stars of the property industry, which always needs talented and skilled people. “The ratio of women to men is still far too low and these awards are designed to raise awareness of the issue and encourage more young women to enter this
interesting and rewarding sector.” The second year students are reading property and construction-related degrees at universities in Huddersfield, Leeds, Newcastle, Northumbria and Sheffield. The regional winner will get £300 prize money, help to find a work placement with a local property company, a year’s free membership of WiP, a mentor from the association and an invitation to the national awards dinner in September at Claridge’s in London.
Rating proposals ‘will be costly’ GOVERNMENT plans to “localise” business rates could cost the taxpayer up to £1.3bn, according to analysis by a national property consultancy. The proposals would allow local authorities to maintain local control over an as yet undefined portion of the increase in rates revenues collected from successful, growing, local businesses. But Lambert Smith Hampton said the proposals were overly complex and probably unworkable. Head of rating Richard Wackett
said: “It’s inevitable that the localisation policy’s inherent lack of regional parity will translate into intolerable unpredictability for business,” he claimed. “Local authorities will likely view this as an opportunity to bridge any funding gap by increasing local business taxes. I would expect top-up of up to 5%. Considering rates raise £26bn, this equates £1.3bn extra bill for the tax payer.” Mr Wackett said local authorities were also having second thoughts – including local authority
representatives and the London council’s body, which represents London’s 33 local authorities. At the same time, UK PLC’s anti-localisation stance had been made clear for some time, due to the unpredictable environment it creates for businesses, he said. Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Local Government, dismissed opponents of the proposals as “grumblers”. But Mr Wackett said: “He should not be so quick to dismiss his critics. There are some serious problems.”
■ PROBLEMS: Richard Wackett, of LHS
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Attack on VAT plans BUILDING industry leaders claim the UK’s heritage remains at risk until the Government drops its plans to add 20% VAT to listed building alterations from October 1 this year. The Federation of Master Builders welcomed the Government’s announcement of £30m to help listed places of worship pay the VAT on their repairs and alterations. But FMB chief executive Brian Berry said: “No one with an interest in seeing the continued use of all of our historic buildings will be satisfied with this step. “Removing the zero rate of VAT on alterations to listed buildings in such a short timescale will add significantly to the existing financial burdens on private owners and charities that look after our cherished heritage.”
property
Manufacturing company proves as safe as houses A COMPANY making kitchens for the affordable and social housing sector has won awards for workplace safety. Dewsbury-based Rixonway Kitchens had its approach to the prevention of accidents and ill health recognised in the RoSPA Occupational Health and Safety Awards 2012 for the third year running. The Gold award was presented at a ceremony at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel at the National Exhibition Centre. Nick Greenall, operations director at Rixonway Kitchens, said: “We are delighted to have won a RoSPA Award for the third year running. “At Rixonway we take health and safety very seriously and we’re happy that our efforts have been recognised. We continue to monitor and update our stringent processes to ensure our standards remain as some of the highest in the industry.” Rixonway’s most recent investment in machinery has led to health and safety benefits for its employees. The specialist Fusion machine, produced by Italian company Essetre, allows Rixonway to cut and edge its kitchen work tops in a single process – halving
■ SAFE HANDS: Eric Wiles (left), RoSPA trustee, presents the award to Martin Fowler, Rixonway compliance co-ordinator
the time taken and improving safety for workers. The new system has brought improvements in productivity and energy consumption, as well as lowering transportation and handling requirements for staff, creating a safer working environment. Rixonway has also developed a housekeeping and visual management
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system designed to keep workplaces free from clutter and ensure only the correct equipment required is available. Mr Greenall said this work had massively improved Rixonway’s occupational health and safety performance as well as reducing absence levels throughout the company by reducing the fire risk, lowering the incidence of
slips and trips and improving the maintenance and preventative maintenance of machinery. The company has become an approved and accredited training provider for IOSH Managing Safely and IOSH Working Safely. Rixonway has also committing resources and time to ensure training is available to all employees by building health and safety responsibilities into people’s jobs. The awards were presented at a series of gala dinners held alongside Safety and Health Expo 2012, which is Europe’s leading annual health and safety exhibition. David Rawlins, awards manager at RoSPA, said: “The RoSPA Awards programme provides well-deserved recognition for the winners and spurs on other organisations to raise their standards of accident and ill health prevention. “We congratulate Rixonway Kitchens on its success and encourage it and all our other winners, to remain committed to safety and health, an approach that is well recognised to be good for workers and the bottom line.”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Steph Craven & Jade Walsh
Ask Insight MARKET research and strategic marketing agency Ask Insight has appointed two new recruits. The agency, based at the Media Centre in Huddersfield, has appointed graduate Steph Craven (left) and Jade Walsh (right), who is in her final year studying for her GCSEs. Ms Craven started working at Ask as an intern for a month and the agency was so pleased with her she was asked to stay on as a paid placement, which then progressed to a permanent role as a junior research executive. She graduated from Bradford University with a first class honours degree in interdisciplinary human studies. In her new role, she will help the agency with a range of client work and gain new research skills. Ms Walsh is a student at The Creative and Media Studio School, Rawthorpe, where Ask is responsible for the business engagement campaign. She works eight hours a week during free periods and after school. She writes news stories, features and uploads pictures to the Studio School portal which lets businesses know what is happening at the Studio School.
Natalie Gibson & Jennifer Stroud
Makin Dixon Solicitors Family law firm Makin Dixon has appointed solicitors Jennifer Stroud and Natalie Gibson to head its new Huddersfield office. The opening of the new branch at Queen Street brings the total number of Makin Dixon offices to seven. Others include ones in Halifax, Bradford and Keighley. Ms Gibson (right, top), who lives at Salendine Nook, and attended Greenhead High School, joins the firm from Holroyd & Co in Huddersfield while Ms Stroud (also pictured), who lives at Rastrick and is a former student at Whitcliffe Mount, has transferred from the firm’s Todmorden office. Both studied law at Huddersfield University and are members of Resolution, a body of lawyers committed to resolving disputes amicably. Makin Dixon is headed by partners Caroline Makin and Jane Campbell and covers general family law with a special emphasis on emergency protection and representation of victims of domestic violence.
Security specialist A YORKSHIRE security provider with clients in Kirklees has joined a select band. Cerberus Security & Monitoring, has become only the fifth company in the region to achieve the National Security Inspectorate’s Alarm Receiving Centre Gold status – proving it is among the best in the country. The award was presented to Cerberus managing director Steve Hardcastle and financial director Anna Milnes by NSI chief executive Jeff Little.
Movers and shakers
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Marathon man leads the field! A COMPANY achieving impressive growth in difficult market conditions has been recognised with an award. Shepley-based Wellhouse Leisure, which specialises in manufacturing motorhomes and camper vans, won the Business of the Month Award run by Huddersfield law firm Eaton Smith in association with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and UK Trade & Investments. Managing director David Elliott received the award from Eaton Smith partner Alison Palmer at a presentation at the law firm’s High Street offices. Wellhouse started in 2003 by importing compact people carriers from Japan and turning them into camper vans. Starting with just three staff, the company has grown to employ 27 people and has opened branches in Inverness and Devon. During 2010, Wellhouse Leisure approached Hyundai Motors with a view to building camper vans with the motor manufacturer. That progressed to Wellhouse designing and building vehicles on Hyundai chassis from scratch – with the vehicles making a debut at the NEC Motor Show in Birmingham a year ago and winning three major industry awards. While the recession has led to a 15% fall in annual sales for the industry, Wellhouse has bucked the trend to lift sales year-on-year. Mr Elliott had also performed a series of
■ WELL DONE: Alison Palmer (centre) presents the award to David Elliott (third right), of Wellhouse Leisure, with (from left) Paul Misselbrook, of Appleyard Lees; Steven Leigh, of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce; David Butterworth, of Wheawill & Sudworth; Neil Worthington, of Worthington Brown; and Jo McBeath, of UKTI
profile-raising activities for the firm which benefit the local community – such as running 12 marathons in seven months last year to raise £20,000 for a local charity and running an incredible 10 marathons in 10 days to raise £4,000 for Huddersfield
Website that’s a winner
A COMPANY selling everything for a child’s bedroom has landed an award for its website from Mumpreneur UK. Kids Bedroom Boutique Ltd, based at Denby Dale and run by mother-of-one Alison Fearns, won the silver award in the competition. The judges were looking for websites which were visually pleasing and easy to navigate with simple payment processes and ample information about the products and services provided. Alison, who runs her business from Springfield Mills, said: “We are really proud of this award because our
website was only launched in early March . This represents a big achievement for us and still leaves us something to aim for – a gold award!” She added: “The web development side of the business has been absolutely fascinating and daunting at the same time. So while being fairly computer literate , I am at heart at bit of a Luddite and I had quite a few reservations and demons to overcome at the beginning. Fortunately, I worked with an excellent web developer who was very empathetic to my business objects. I chose her, above others, because she is my target customer, a busy mum with kids.”
Towns “Keep It up” campaign in aid of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. The Business of the Month Award is open to firms in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. Contact Ian Greenwood at Eaton Smith on 01484 821389.
Leon Wdowczyk & John Lomax
Waterhouse TWO key members of Leeds-based building refurbishment and office fit-out specialists Waterhouse have been promoted to the board of directors after a joint 25 years of loyal service. Huddersfield-born Leon Wdowczyk (top), design director, joined Waterhouse 11 years ago to head the design department. He previously held key design posts with Fairhurst Architects and Christopher Pratt’s Commercial and brings to the board 30 years of experience. He attended All Saints’ High School at Bradley before taking the art foundation course at Huddersfield Polytechnic and continuing studies at Newcastle Polytechnic before pursuing a career in commercial 3D design. Leeds-based John Lomax (also pictured), surveying director brings to the board 37 years of surveying expertise and has worked with the UK’s leading quantity surveying practices. He joined Waterhouse 14 years ago and has spent his entire career in the surveying industry. Waterhouse, formed in 1853, has become one of the north’s leading office fit out and office refurbishment specialists.