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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Sewtec secures a seven-figure deal
A COMPANY supplying automated equipment to major names worldwide has secured a string of orders worth millions of pounds. Sewtec Automation, based at Ravensthorpe Industrial Estate in Dewsbury, has been awarded the prestigious contracts by a major FTSE 100 company and will supply a range of machinery over the next 18 months. Although the client cannot be named, managing director Bernard Meehan said the win demonstrated the strength of the company despite difficult times for manufacturers. “This is a major project for our customer with the implementation roll out covering factories throughout Europe,” he said. “This is further good news for the long-term future of Sewtec and also for other local businesses who support us.” Sewtec Automation has grown its
business in recent years and now supplies key machinery and automation to major multi-national companies. More than 80% of the business goes for export. This year alone, Sewtec Automation has supplied equipment to China, Dubai, Bulgaria and Russia. The company is a world class supplier of automation systems to companies such as Nestle, Twinings, Proctor & Gamble and Unilever. Equipment supplied include conveyors, loading robots, machines for filling and capping bottles and electrical control equipment. It also provides project management and design-and-build services. As part of its expansion plans, Sewtec Automation is investing further in its manufacturing capabilities. The company is installing three new computer-controlled machining
centres and launching a recruitment campaign across all skill areas. Said Mr Meehan: “In times of recession when manufacturing businesses across the country are struggling, Sewtec Automation stands out as a regional success story.” Sewtec, which dates back to 1867, was the design and development house to sewing machine manufacturer Singer. In 1982, it broke away from the sewing industry to focus on applications for automotive sector servicing companies worldwide. More recently, it has concentrated on the fast-moving consumer goods industries in sectors such as food and confectionery, tobacco and personal products. Sewtec’s project planning skills mean it is often involved at the very early stages of confidential projects for new product investigations and launches.
stant temperature. On average, between 70% and 90% of patients who use the system do not need a wig. Paxman’s latest scalp cooler is already attracting potential business partners from across the Middle East. The cooling caps are worn 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy, during the treatment itself and for a period of time after infusion of the chemotherapy depending on the toxicity of the drugs. The new-style cooling cap features
straightforward programming and controls, including recommended cooling time guides. It is connected to a refrigeration system which uses an up-to-the-minute touch screen display and simple switch operation – making it easy for the patient and staff to operate. Managing director Glenn Paxman, said the exhibition would enable the firm to expand its links in the Middle East. He said: “Arab Health will allow us to
Credit crunch? SIMON Pope, 41, is enjoying the sweet life – as a full-time biscuit designer and tester for Fox’s Biscuits at Batley. The product development controller munches his way through 472 packets of biscuits a year – that’s more than 7,000 individual biscuits – to make sure they meet the grade.
● Full story - Page 8
■ TEST PIECE: Sewtec Automation has won a string of major contracts
Middle East beckons for health products firm A COMPANY supplying scalp coolers to treat hair loss in cancer patients is taking its innovative product to the Middle East. Paxman Coolers, based at Penistone Road, Fenay Bridge, will showcase its next generation of scalp coolers at the Arab Health exhibition next month in the United Arab Emirates. Paxman’s cooling caps combat hair loss in people undergoing chemotherapy by ensuring the scalp remains at a con-
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put our products on an international stage and establish links with potential business partners from across the UAE – enabling us to expand on our already buoyant overseas market.” Arab Health, the largest healthcare event in the Middle East, runs from January 25 to 28 at the Dubai International Convention Centre. Paxman’s visit to Dubai follows its appearance in November at Medica in Dusseldorf, Germany.
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Clare has the look BUSINESSWOMAN Clare Quartermaine has fashioned a new enterprise. Clare, who runs marketing, design and web agency QT Creative, has set up a new retail website offering clothing inspired by the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s.
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Cadbury investors urged to reject bid Hershey has already said it is considerCADBURY has accused Kraft of trying to buy it “on the cheap” as it set out a robust ing options for Cadbury, as has Ferrero defence against the US suitor’s £10bn Rocher maker Ferrero. Cadbury is widely speculated to favour a hostile bid. The Dairy Milk maker upped long-term tie-up with Hershey, which already holds a performance targets and said profit mar- licence to make Dairy Milk bars and gins for the current year were expected to Cadbury Creme Eggs in the US. Kraft’s approach – worth about 725p a be higher than original guidance, as it sought to underline its prospects as an share – is also seen as being far short of the 850p price analysts believe Cadbury can independent company. Cadbury chairman Roger Carr warned fetch and has been quickly dismissed by shareholders not to let Kraft “steal your the group’s board as being “wholly inadequate”. company with its derisory offer”. Cadbury shares rose by 4.5p to close at The group’s defence comes amid reports that Cadbury is in talks with US rival 795p yesterday. The new performance targets will see Hershey over a possible “white knight” Cadbury aim for sales growth of 5% to 7% offer. Cadbury did not comment on reports of a year for the next four years –while also talks with Hershey, but confirmed interest seeking to reward investors with double digit growth in shareholder pay-outs. from potential rival bidders.
Cadbury has already lifted revenue guidance for the current financial year and said recent trading was in line with the upgraded expectations thanks to emerging market growth for chocolate sales and “excellent” performance across its candy range. It is also hoping to slash its supplier network as part of the plan to deliver better figures. Investors now have until January 5 to make up their minds on the Kraft bid, with the whole process subject to a 60-day timetable under Takeover Panel rules. But it may turn into a lengthy takeover battle if other groups that have been circling Cadbury formally enter the fray. The Unite union is calling for Cadbury to remain independent to protect its 6,200 workers in the UK and Ireland.
■ CHOCS AWAY: Kraft’s £10bn bid for Cadbury has been labelled “derisory”
Mouchel rejects takeover bids
Investors back cash call
ENGINEERING firm Mouchel said it had “unanimously rejected” two takeover approaches from rival VT Group. The Surrey-based firm said it understood that its suitor remained interested in a deal despite the rebuttal. Mouchel shares soared by 28% on the update. That follows a 19% leap on Friday when Mouchel said in an upbeat trading statement that it was pulling out of crisis-hit Dubai to focus Middle Eastern operations on Abu Dhabi instead. It is thought that VT has so far put forward potential offers at about
LLOYDS Banking Group said its £13.5bn cash call had been a success after shareholders took up more than 95% of the shares on offer. The result of the rights issue is better than a previous fundraising last June when 13% of the offer was not taken up by investors. The issue formed part of a £22.5bn plan to strengthen the bank’s balance sheet and allow it to escape the government’s asset protection scheme. The Treasury, which owns 43% of Lloyds after last year’s banking bailouts has taken up its rights to new Lloyds shares. That means they have committed
250p a share – above the current price at about 240p, but far below year trading highs of more than 384p. Mouchel said VT’s approaches were “wholly inadequate and at a level which substantially undervalues the company”. Itr added; “The board has discussed these approaches with its advisors and has unanimously rejected them.” Mouchel is valued at about £273m based on yesterday’s share price. it is believed that VT has pitched its approaches at about £281m. A formal offer from VT could spark a takeover tussle for Mouchel
Full of beans
£5.7bn of taxpayers’ money to take part. The update from Lloyds showed that investors subscribed or sold the rights to 95.31% of the shares on offer. The remainder of the stock is to be sold by the rights issue underwriters in the open market. The average Lloyds private shareholder holds 740 shares and was asked to stump up £336.67 to maintain their stake. The taxpayer has paid £5.7bn to take part. Shareholders had the chance to buy 1.34 new shares for each existing share at 37p.
COFFEE business Costa continued to defy the recession – after owner Whitbread reported another “outstanding” performance by the chain. Costa increased like-for-like sales by 6.7% in the three months to November 26 – more than double the rise during the first half-year. Total sales in UK and overseas franchise unitsrose by 28.2% to £141.8 m after Costa opened 154 stores in the UK and 22 overseas during the first three quarters of Whitbread’s financial year. Across the group, which also operates Premier Inn hotels and Beefeater and Brewers Fayre pub restaurants, like-for-like sales were 0.3% higher in the quarter. Chief executive Alan Parker said 2009/10 results would exceed City predictions.
Buy-out approach TV production firm Shed Media – which makes New Tricks and Supernanny – is weighing up an initial approach from a buy-out consortium. Shed Media said Bowmark Capital and Darwin Private Equity were working over a possible deal.
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £25.33 +0.33 Gannett 856.41 +48.50 Hess Corp £34.56 +0.41 Microsoft 1846.03 +13.51 Motors Liquidation 46.04 Wal-Mart Stores £33.15 -0.41 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE 5 BAE Systems 346 /8 +37/8 Rolls-Royce Gp 4931/4 +33/4 Smiths Grp 9901/2 +2 VT Group 526 -151/2 AIM Brady Plc 60 +2 Dawson Intl 13/8 -1/4 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 1137/8 +1 BANKS Barclays 2915/8 +35/8 HSBC 7197/8 +161/2 1 Lloyds Banking Gp 55 /8 -1 Ryl Scotland 31 +3/8 Stan Chart 1575 +651/2 BEVERAGES Diageo 1052 -1 SABMiller 1814 -8 CHEMICALS 1 Croda 764 /2 +51/2 Delta 141 -1 Elementis 98 471/2 -1 Johnsn Mat 1498 -2 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2513/4 +1/4 Costain 231/2 ELECTRICITY 1
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Intl Power 300 +47/8 Scottish & Sthrn 1114 +7 Energy ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Chloride 1733/4 +11/2 Invensys 2841/2 +15/8 Laird 1091/4 +25/8 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 3131/4 +13/4 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 143 +7/8 C&W 1413/4 -1/4 Colt Telecom 126 +1 -1/2 KCOM 441/2 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS Morrison W 2753/4 -13/8 Sainsbury 3201/8 +7/8 Tesco 4181/4 +13/8 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 8111/2 +3 Cadbury 795 +41/2 Nth Foods 667/8 +2 +81/4 Tate Lyle 4261/4 Unilever 1890 +12 +1/2 Uniq 243/4 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 264 -15/8 National Grid 650 +5 Pennon Grp 509 +41/2 Severn 1047 +2 +21/2 United Utils 5031/2 GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 2781/4 +7/8 ICAP 4241/2 +11/4 1 London StockExch 763 /2 +69 +73/8 Man Group 3171/4 1
Schroders 1225 +9 Schroders NV 1007 +6 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS 1 Avon Rbbr 100 /2 +81/2 Cooksn Grp 4063/8 -13/4 REXAM 2791/8 -67/8 GENERAL RETAILERS Ashley L 131/2 DSG International 351/8 +1/8 Home Retail 302 +31/4 Inchcape 263/4 -3/8 Kingfisher 2341/4 -1 1 +21/4 M&S 403 /4 Mothercare 663 +3 +1/8 Next £201/2 WH Smith 524 +2 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 625 +5 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 1181/2 -31/2 Barrat Dev 1101/8 -15/8 Persimmon 426 +3/4 3 Reckitt Benckiser £32 /8 -3/8 Taylor Wimpey 34 +5/8 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING Charter 702 -2 +2 IMI 5171/2 Man Brnze 111 +1 INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 1823/4 -51/4 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BBA Aviation 1553/8 +13/8 Forth Ports 1083 +42 LIFE INSURANCE Aviva 3801/2 +97/8 1
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1071/8 +11/4 612 +9 787/8 2073/4 +1/4 MEDIA BSkyB 572 -6 Chrysalis 1011/4 -33/4 D Mail Tst 4141/8 +101/4 ITV 523/8 +3/8 Johnston Press 261/2 -11/4 Pearson 8691/2 +1/2 Reed Elsevier 4803/8 +7/8 STV Group 42 +21/4 Trinity Mirror 1501/4 +4 Utd Business 4425/8 +75/8 1 UTV 102 /2 -21/2 WPP 6101/2 -3 Yell Group 407/8 +1 MINING Anglo American £263/8 +3/4 Antofagasta 945 +291/2 BHP Billiton 1906 +31 +18 Eurasian Natural 8911/2 Res Fresnillo 819 +5 Kazakhmys 1268 +15 Lonmin 1830 +66 Rio Tinto £313/4 +3/8 VEDANTA £243/8 +3/8 RESOURCES Xstrata 1074 +27 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES Inmarsat 6581/2 -1/2 Vodafone Group 1421/2 +7/8 NONLIFE INSURANCE Admiral Grp 1110 +3 RSA Insurance Gp 116 -3/4 Old Mutual Prudential Resolution Standard Life
Local shares Carclo Chapelthorpe Instore Marshalls National Grid Rensburg Sheppards Weir Gp
1281/2 111/2 45/8 893/4 650 639
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677
-71/2
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5315.3 Up 53.7 BG 1085 +171/2 BP 581 +53/4 1 Cairn Energy £31 /8 +1/4 Norsk Hdro 4923/8 +15 Royal Dutch Shell A 1833 +16 Royal Dutch Shell B 17671/2 +181/2 7 Total £38 /8 +1/4 Tullow Oil 1290 +40 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Petrofac 975 +171/2 Wood Group 2965/8 +101/2 PERSONAL GOODS Burberry 595 +91/2 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £281/8 -1/8 Axis-Shield 401 -1/4
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1183 REAL ESTATE Brit Land 4447/8 DTZ Hldgs 711/2 Hamrsn 380 Land Secs 6381/2 SEGRO 3301/2 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Autonomy Corp 1528 Dimension Data 733/8 Logica 1133/4 Misys 2003/8 Sage Group 2303/4 SUPPORT SERVICES AMEC 774 Bunzl 6531/2 Capita 730 Davis Service 3781/2 Group De La Rue 9681/2 Electrocomp 1635/8 Experian 6171/2 G4S 2531/2 Hays 991/4 Homeserve 1654 Menzies J 3203/4 Rentokil 1003/4 Smiths News 113 Wolseley 1216 IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs 1693/4 Psion 88 Spirent Comms 945/8 TOBACCO Br Am Tob 1961 Imperial Tobacco 1907 LEISURE & HOTELS
+24 +37/8 -3/4 -43/4 +1/2 -13/8 +16 +1/8 +41/2 -31/4 -3/4 +1 -31/2 -11/2 -23/4 -11/2 -2 -21/4 +11/4 +16 -1/4 +15/8 -31/2 -21 +1/2 +1/4 +11/8 +21/2 +6
Brit Airways Carnival Compass Grp easyJet Enterprise Inns FirstGroup Go-Ahead Greene King Intercontl Htls Ladbrokes Mitchells & Butlers Natl Express PartyGaming Rank Org Stagecoach Group TUI Travel Whitbread
201 £211/2 4591/4 3463/8 1023/8 3931/8 1271 4191/4 897 1391/8 2581/2 1867/8 2563/4 781/8 1633/4 2611/8 1380
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FTSE 100
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS As the recession retains its grip on the UK economy, many firms are fighting for survival. And company director Ross Ball draws his inspiration for battling the downturn from the world of unarmed combat. Ross, operations director at Milnsbridge-based Horizon Signs, is a keen follower of Ultimate Fighting Championship – a form of fighting that brings together the martial arts of boxing, karate, wrestling and judo. “It’s sometimes called cage fighting,” says Ross. “But it has lost its barbaric image. It has become a very technical sport. If you are a slugger, you will lose because your opponent will outwit you with superior technique. “There are some lads from Huddersfield fighting at a national level. It is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country and it is exhilarating to watch because it is a real spectacle.” Ross is proud to explain how Horizon Signs is doing its best to ride the punches of the recession by beating down costs, honing efficiency and displaying a true fighting spirit. “As manufacturers, we are not immune to the recession,” he says. “Manufacturing has been hit hard. But we see it as an opportunity to analyse everything we do – to look at our costs, our relationships with suppliers. We have become ultra-frugal – which is a good habit to get into. “This has been our philosophy for the past 12 to 18 months. We make sure everything we buy is at the right price and the right quality. That has saved us a lot of money. We have made profits throughout the recession – something we intend to develop further.” Horizon Signs also embarked on developing new products to broaden its markets. As well as producing signs for pubs, restaurants and shops it has won contracts with local authorities and other public sector customers to provide items such as road signs and bus shelter advertising boxes. Its latest product is a roller board for schools. The aluminium frames can be powder-coated in a wide range of colours. For primary schools, the four sides of the board are painted in red, blue, green and yellow, for instance. “We are always trying to innovate and make products that customers want,” says Ross. “We have a skilled workforce, a fully-equipped fabrication works and powder coating bay. And we are full of new ideas.” Horizon Signs was started in 1980 by Ross’ father Keith. “It started as a reprographics company,” says Ross. “Over time, they acquired a fabrications business making things like
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Bright signs on the Horizon Eventually, someone asked if we could make signs for a garage forecourt. They ordered 100 of them and we decided that making signs was the way to go.” The company moved from premises in the centre of Milnsbridge to the nearby Holme Mills Industrial Park, which provided more room for expansion. “When I was at school I used to spend weekends and holidays helping in the fabrications department,” says Ross. “At that point, we were making sunbeds and I would help assemble them.” After gaining qualifications in business and finance at Huddersfield Technical College, Ross worked at Horizon for a few more years before taking up a post with shopping catalogue giant Grattan in Bradford as a purchaser and stock controller before returning to Horizon. “It gave me the opportunity to work with a large organisation,” he says.
“I think that experience helped when I came back to Horizon as production manager.” Ross also sampled the realities of running his own business – supplying notice boards to schools. “As a one-man operation I had to do everything –dealing with the accounts and the banks,” he says. “I certainly learned the value of money!” When Keith’s two fellow directors decided to retire, Ross brought his business to Horizon. Now he is running the company alongside his father and sales director George Foster. Aged 33, Ross remembers the last recession vividly. “I recall it from the point of view of the family – when my father was working all hours to keep the business going. “I have been on the best learning curve possible – better than any university could offer.” He adds: “People ask: ‘How can you work with your dad? Aren’t you at
■ BOARD ROOM: Ross Ball of Horizon Signs, with the company’s latest product, a durable roller board designed for schools and colleges
loggerheads all the time?’ But he will ask my opinion and we will have an open discussion about things. There are never any arguments. “We employ people we know. Our longest serving employee has been with us 25 years. “My uncle works for the firm and so do my dad’s friends. “As a result, we have people we know we can trust who are committed to the business.” Away from work, Ross lists UFC among his interests and has watched fighters at venues in Dublin, Birmingham and London. But he also enjoys mainstream sport. “We have a box at the
Page 3 Ross Ball Role: Operations director Age: 33 Family: Partner Nicola Holidays: Anglesey and the Greek Islands Car: Mitsubishi Warrior First job: Metalworker on the shopfloor Best thing about job: I am in control of my future Worst thing about job: Fear of letting down the customer Business tip: Give the customer what he wants
Galpharm Stadium and we have been enjoying watching Town this season,” he says. “I also play five-a-side on the outdoor pitch at Colne Valley High School every week.” Ross also keeps fit taking border collie Red on long walks around Ilkley Moor, Scammonden and Digley Reservoir. And his business philosophy matches his pugnacious spirit. “Even if you are being beaten, your skills and commitment can help you turn the fight round – so that you deliver the knock-out blow.”
HENRYK ZIENTEK
Horizon Signs Work: Sign manufacturer Employs: 30 Site: Holme Mills Industrial Park, Milnsbridge Phone: 01484 460909 Email: ross@ horizon-signs.co.uk
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KIRKLEES BUSIN
Clare’s latest business has a touch of style BUSINESSWOMAN Clare Quartermaine is fashioning a new enterprise. Clare, who also runs marketing, design and web agency QT Creative, has set up a new retail website specialising in “vintage-inspired” clothing. The new website, named 20thcenturyfoxy.com sells clothing from British and American wholesalers plus some locally-based budding fashion designers. Some of the items were showcased at a fashion show extravaganza at the Peacock Lounge earlier this month when the site was officially launched. “I have always loved clothing from what we term The Golden Era – the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s,” said Clare. “I think the fashions during these times really flattered women of all ages, shapes and sizes.” Clare said: “The market for this clothing is really growing and is fuelled by recession-influenced nostalgia for these eras and an increasing interest in 1940s and 1950s style and dancing. “I will also be designing a small range of
clothing to compliment the stock that the site will sell and to plug a few holes in the market. “In my frustration with current fashion – which seems more tailored towards women in the teens or early 20s – and in need of another challenge, I decided it was time to try another business venture. “This seemed like an exciting direction that utilised our skills in web, marketing and our experience in the retail sector.” QT Creative, based in The Media Centre, lists IMG Media Group, Northgate PLC and many local businesses including The Woolshops Shopping Centre in Halifax among its clients. Clare works with many clients as their “virtual” marketing director or project manager – using her team’s talents to offer complete marketing and creative services. Clare started her business as QT Multimedia Design when she was just 22 with a business partner. She bought the business about three years ago.
VAT warning from HMRC
■ HIGH FASHION: Clare Quartermaine’s latest business venture takes its inspiration from the 1930s to the 1950s
Cracker of an idea for shops
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HUNDREDS of firms across Kirklees are being urged to get ready now for major changes to VAT return filing and payment coming in next April. HM Revenue & Customs has sent a leaflet to all 1.9m VAT-registered businesses in the UK to alert them to the fact that those with an annual turnover of £100,000 or more – excluding VAT – will have to file their VAT returns online and pay their VAT electronically from April 1, 2010. Under the changes, businesses registering for VAT on or after that date will also have to file their return online and pay electronically, whatever their turnover. Every year, about 14,000 businesses register for VAT across Yorkshire. HMRC is calling on all VAT-registered businesses in the region to take notice of the changes – as well as local firms planning to register for VAT in the coming months. To file a VAT return online, businesses new to HMRC’s online services need to register for the VAT Online service at www.online.hmrc.gov.uk. HMRC spokesman Stephen Banyard said: “Filing your VAT return online has a number of benefits – it’s secure, convenient, does arithmetical checks and calculations for you and provides you with an immediate online acknowledgement that your online return has been safely received by us.”
■ CHECKOUT THIS: Sean Jarvis (right), commercial director for Huddersfield Town, with Michael Broadhurst, manager of Sainsbury's store at Shoehead after the supermarket signed up as a club partner
More in store for Town SUPERMARKET Sainsbury’s is the latest company to partner Huddersfield Town. The Shorehead branch has joined forces with the club to undertake a number of joint promotions during 2010 – starting with an initiative that encourages Kirklees children to eat healthily and become active in sport. The store joins the likes of Perry’s, Thomas Cook, Gordon’s Solicitors and Grant Thornton in supporting the club. Town commercial director Sean Jarvis said:
“Our commercial operation continues to grow and we are delighted to welcome Sainsbury’s Shorehead on board as our newest partner. We’re sure their enthusiasm and support will be a massive boost for the club. It was clear that there was a lot of common ground shared by the two organisations in terms of what we want to achieve.” Store manager Michael Broadhurst said: “Working in the community is one of our main objectives and Huddersfield Town is a very strong vehicle in this area.”
SIX independent shops in Huddersfield are working together to boost their Christmas takings. The tie-up – involving Kitten Heels Boutique, Stonez Jewellers, La Fleur Floral and Bridal, Tames Meadow Cards, Alexandra House Spa and Mark Riley Hairdressers – aims to encourage local customers to shop locally by offering special promotions. Maxine Stead, owner of Alexandra House Spa, who came up with the idea, said: “Lots of my clients go shopping into Huddersfield and I wanted to help promote some of the independent shops in town – especially in the run-up to Christmas. “I thought this would be a good way to promote each other’s businesses and to bring more customers into Huddersfield. “In the current economic climate, small businesses need to work together to generate as much business as possible to ensure that retailers can survive these tough times.”
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Bank supports restaurant plan
RESTAURATEURS Stephen and Jonathan Tiffany have bucked the trend to expand their business interests. The owners of Ford Inn at Holmfirth saved 20 jobs when they bought the CragRats Brasserie near Holmfirth. Now the father and son team are building on the brasserie’s existing reputation – and demonstrating their confidence in the local economy. Said Jonathan: “We are fully open for business at the Brasserie. “It is an exciting new opportunity for us. “We will continue our policy of serving locally sourced produce at a more competitive price structure yet never compromising on high standards or quality.” The duo were backed in the purchase by HSBC, which arranged a commercial mortgage to enable them to realise their ambitions. Said Jonathan: “While we understand that the restaurant sector has been experiencing vast difficulties, we are delighted that HSBC have renewed their commitment to work with local businesses.” Jill Hague, HSBC’s area commercial director for Calderdale and Kirklees, said: “We are delighted to support Stephen and
Page 5 Franchise first TYRE fitting specialist HiQ has celebrated its first anniversary as a fully franchised business – with increased turnover, average sales and customer numbers. HiQ, which has a centre at New North Road in Huddersfield has achieved a double-digit rise in turnover while average sales are up by 5%. Customer numbers are 8% ahead. HiQ retail director Juergen Titz said: “2009 has been a challenging year. But the overall picture is that there is always room for individual entrepreneurial performance in a recession. “Is there room for winners in a recession? Definitely. The business performance of the group has proven this.”
Responsible Long Term Investing We manage funds for private clients, charities, trusts and pension funds. ■ MENU MASTERS: Cragrats Brasserie owners Steve Tiffany (second right) and son Jonathan (right) with Jill Hague and Graham Hallam, of HSBC
Jonathan expand their business and allow them to continue to deliver an excellent level
of service within the local community. We wish them every success going forward.”
We can help you in all aspects of your financial planning, whether it’s your investments, pension or general financial matters. We are committed to providing high quality independent professional advice with the aim of helping our clients to achieve their financial objectives.
Dealing with the deficit HE financial crisis last year was T countered by a series of fiscal and monetary policies worldwide that
CITY TALK
effectively underpinned much of the private sector’s debt burden with government guarantees. The transfer of risk from an overburdened financial sector (in which confidence had collapsed) onto the broader shoulders of tions assumed by some governments has society as a whole seemed the only way of eroded confidence in the sustainability of preventing a collapse of the banking system their budget arithmetic. and, with it, economic activity. These pressures have come to the fore in Cutting interest rates to help borrowers recent weeks, as a series of countries suffered manage their debts and boosting public credit rating downgrades. spending to help compensate for a slump in Some state-owned companies in Dubai, consumer spending and capital investment which had enjoyed a remarkable property appeared to be sensible insurance against the boom, requested a delay in servicing their risk of a repeat of the 1930s’ Great Depres- debts, Greece’s credit rating was downgraded sion. (making a crisis out of a drachma?) and While the crisis was raging, there was little concerns resurfaced over the public finances questioning of the need to halt the self-feed- of Spain and Ireland, which were amongst the ing collapse in confidence. European countries worst hit by the credit As the financial system stabilised, there crunch. were sufficient signs of depressed activity to The UK was not immune from these keep policy makers vigilant against the risk of doubts. Our relatively large financial sector a renewed financial hurricane and even when meant the UK’s budget deficit ballooned to early signs of reviving economic activity become one of the largest in the developed appeared there remained an emphasis on world, putting pressure on Chancellor preventing a “double-dip” back into reces- Darling to spell out in the Pre Budget Report sion. how it was going to be brought under conNow that financial markets are functioning trol. properly again and the signs of economic The gilt market, in selling off the day after convalescence are unambiguous, attention is turning to the unresolved debt problems in many economies. Simon Kaye is divisional director of Changing the name on an IOU is not the Rensburg Sheppards same as repaying it. The size of the obliga-
Simon Kaye
the announcement, seems to have decided that the statements of intent to squeeze spending after the election and to cap the government’s pension contributions were too vague. There were nonetheless two pieces of good news. Firstly there was a sharp revision down in the estimated possible loss from the bank sector rescue. It no longer seems fanciful to speculate that the government may ultimately make money from the rescue. The second point was more subtle: although the economy had weakened 1.5% more than expected at the time of the budget, the projected deficits were almost unchanged. This implied that the underlying deficit was less bad than appeared last April. N eve r t h e l e s s, given a mediocre growth outlook it is doubly important that the politically very difficult process of bringing down the deficit is clearly spelt out and believable. The rating agencies may revisit the UK’s status if this task is shirked after the election.
Simplify your life Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management Quayside House, Canal Wharf, Leeds, LS11 5PU Tel: +44 (0)113 245 4488 E-mail: info.leeds@rsim.co.uk Member firm of the London Stock Exchange. Member of Liffe. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management Limited is registered in England. Registered No. 2122340. Registered Office: Quayside House Canal Wharf Leeds LS11 5PU. Offices at: Belfast Cheltenham Edinburgh Farnham Glasgow Leeds Liverpool London Manchester Reigate Sheffield.
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Care home scheme is just the start A CONSTRUCTION company headed by Batley-based tycoon Lawrence Tomlinson has completed its first project for a care home operator. LNT Construction has finished its £5m project to provide the 84-bed Aire View home at Kirkstall, Leeds, for care home operator Avery Healthcare Group. The handover signalled the start of a strong partnership between LNT Construction and Avery Healthcare. The developer is now working on a further three homes in the north and Midlands for Avery, which is led by managing director John Strowbridge. Mr Tomlinson, who chairs LNT Construction, said: “It is a significant move for us to be handing over the first of four homes to Avery Healthcare at a time when other developers and operators have had to halt their expansive visions due to an unforgiving economic climate. “We have worked with John and his team throughout the whole design process to include many bespoke features to Aire View Care Home. “It will be a superb facility for the local community and I look forward to developing many more LNT Construction builds for John and his team.” Aire View has several features of note, including all rooms having en-suite WCs and showers. The building exceeds recommended space requirements to provide spacious lounges and serveries. The development also benefits from fully-landscaped sensory gardens, a courtyard, a hair salon and attractive floor to ceiling windows in public areas. LNT Construction has built more than 2,000 care beds in the north since 1997 for a variety of third party operators, making it the region’s largest care bed provider.
property
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Firm completes its schoolwork HEAD teacher Dawn Horton took to the controls of an excavator to start the demolition of Stile Common Junior School after construction company Morgan Ashurst finished building its £7.4m replacement. Dawn watched with mixed emotions as specialists pulled down the 1970s building of the former Stile Common Junior School in Headfield Road, Newsome. She is now head of Hillside Primary School, which has been built next to the old site, where children from the infant and junior schools are now studying together. “The children and staff were fascinated watching the demolition of the junior school and with the speed at which it came down,” she said. “Children were sad to see the shell of their memories disappear, but their absolute delight and wonder of their new school building far outweighed their sad feelings.” Mark Ladlow, project manager for Morgan Ashurst, said: “This is a landmark moment in the scheme to provide modern, state-of-the-art facilities for children, teachers and the community at Hillside Primary School. “We are now making good progress on creating an environment area and a football pitch for the new school, which is due to be completed in January. “It has been a real pleasure to work on Hillside Primary School,” said Mark. “Throughout construction, we got to know Dawn and some of the children by staging several events including health and safety talks. We worked hard to create a really special new school and we are delighted that everyone is happy with the new building.” Clr Ken Smith, Kirklees Council joint cabinet member for children and families, said: “The new Hillside Primary School is a superb facility containing lots of environmentally-friendly features. We are delighted
■ OLD SCHOOL: Dawn Horton, headteacher of Hillside Primary School, takes the hot seat in the excavator, joined by Morgan Ashurst project manager Mark Ladlow
that the pupils are enjoying their school so much.” The new school accommodates 12 classrooms, a children’s centre, a hall, a dance studio, a library and a kitchen. Energy-saving features including a wind turbine, a biomass boiler and a rain water recycling system. The project, worth £4.7m to Morgan Ashurst, is the third the firm has successfully
completed for Kirklees Council. It has previously completed a £3.8m project to design and build the new Howard Park Primary School and Children’s Centre in Cleckheaton and the Moorlands Primary School in Huddersfield. Morgan Ashurst has more than 1,800 employees in the UK and works for private and public sector clients on projects from £50,000 to more than £300m.
DTZ halves its losses
Promising outlook
PROPERTY agency DTZ Holdings plc reported a narrowing of its losses despite a fall in group revenue when it unveiled its half-year results. The group said revenue fell by 8.7% to £168.2m during the six months to October 31 compared with £184.3m for the same period last year. Losses before taxation were halved at £4.6m against £9m last time following exceptional charges of £16m. However, DTZ “strengthened” its cash position at £48.3m against £27.3m before, while an additional credit facility of £15m had been secured from the company’s largest shareholder. Staff costs had been cut by £55m following a shake-up of the business. DTZ expected to make an additional £15m of
NOW is the time to buy or sell property, a senior estate agent has advised. Tony Wright, partner at Carter Jonas, which has an office in Slaithwaite, said signs for the property market in 2010 were promising. But he added: “There are a number of underlying economic issues – all collectively out of our control – which have the ability to undermine the improvements that we are experiencing in the market.” Mr Wright said 2009 was challenging in many ways – but the last few months were much more rewarding. Buyers made a welcome return to the market and there was a significant upturn in activity across all sectors of the market. “The signs for 2010 are equally promising,” he said. “I anticipate an early
operating cost savings in the current year. Chief executive Paul Idzik reported an 11.5% rise in revenues to £46.3m from the group’s Asia Pacific business as well as an increase in work from existing and new clients. He said the group remained cautious, but was trading in line with market expectations. Said Mr Idzik: “We have made very good progress during the first half of our financial year, building on the work started last year. “We have stabilised the business and while revenues declined overall, we estimate that the overall market fell by a greater extent. “Our strategic review is complete, we have achieved cost savings of some £70m and we continue to win major
corporate mandates. The business is now well placed to compete aggressively in the territories and markets which we choose.” Mike Mitchell, managing director for the firm’s northern region, reported several major business wins during the half-year. He also reported increasing activity in the investment market as well as work on a number of developments. Said Mr Mitchell: “Despite difficult economic circumstances, I am pleased with the region’s performance. “Following a very difficult year, property investment markets now can be comforted that we are experiencing a stabilisation of yields.”
■ CONFIDENCE: Tony Wright, partner at Carter Jonas with offices in Slaithwaite
upturn in activity following the traditionally quiet Christmas and New Year period
with buyers returning to the market with not only a greater level of confidence but also renewed vigour and enthusiasm. “The early part of 2010 will be a good time to buy and sell. “With an election proposed for mid-2010, this is likely to have some negative impact on the late spring/early summer market although a possible change in government is unlikely to have any long lasting effect.” And he added: “My advice to those intending to buy or sell a property in 2010 is get on and do it whilst the going is still good.” Carter Jonas is a property consultancy with turnover of £30m, 75 partners and more than 400 staff working from 31 offices.
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
More homing in on rental option
Company shows drive A COMPANY specialising in creating driveways has teamed up with one of the biggest names in decorative concrete. Lockwood-based Spectacular Driveways UK Ltd has joined forces with Lafarge Artevia to run an advanced training course to raise the skills level of contractors already in the industry. Managing director John Quinn has specialised in decorative concrete for over 14 years and offers training courses at his training academy in Albert Street. The course covers all aspects and the processes which are involved in becoming a pattern imprinted concrete specialist – giving attendees a kick-start in setting up their own businesses. He said: “We have been running training courses for almost three years now and the attendance has been fantastic. “We have trained lads from all parts of the UK and we have even had enquires from abroad. “One of our trainees is now part of our network after becoming a franchisee of the business and covers the North Yorkshire region. “It’s a great feeling when ex-trainees get back in touch and tell us how well they are doing – especially if they were unemployed beforehand.” Lafarge Artevia will work with Spectacular Driveways UK Ltd next month when a demonstrator and a national technical manager from Lafarge Artevia will be showing their advanced placing and finishing techniques.
A PROPERTY lettings agency says more young people are opting to rent their homes than buy. Belvoir, which has offices at John William Street in Huddersfield, said more and more young people were following European rental trends . It predicted that the UK property market will continue to head towards the European model – where it is normal for tenants, young and old, to rent rather than buy. Chief executive officer Mike Goddard said: “Lives free of commitment have traditionally made young Britons the bedrock of the UK lettings market. “However, in recent months we’ve been observing not only an increase in the number of young people renting, but a stretching of the boundaries as a growing number of ‘30 somethings‘ opt for renting long-ter m over home-ownership.
“Some put this shift towards European trends down to the collapse of the UK housing market, but in reality, the collapse merely accelerated a movement which has been happening for some time.” Belvoir has a network of more than 140 franchisees stretching across the UK – and looking after a property portfolio valued at more than £1bn. In 2001, Abbey’s annual Rent versus Buy Index found that by the end of a 25-year mortgage, homeowners were on average £135,000 better off than renters over the same period. However, by the time Abbey conducted its 2008 study, homeowners were on average only £5,811 better off and in some areas it was cheaper to rent. In London, for example, the average rent was £650 compared with an average mortgage repayment of £1,117. “Although there are still big advantages to home-owning, the
■ TREND: Mike Goddard, chief executive officer at Belvoir
benefits of renting over a long period are becoming more apparent,” claimed Mr Goddard. “Growing numbers of consumers are seeing varying mortgage repayments, legal fees, estate agent fees, stamp duty and repair costs as contributing to an uncer-
Industrial
tain future. “Globalisation and world travel have also played a greater role in young peoples’ lives and as a consequence a greater need for mobility and flexibility is now required. “The economic crisis of September, 2008, merely compounded this situation. When house prices dropped by as much as 30%, the increased affordability of property was offset by increasing deposits and the cessation of bank lending, which limited the number of first time buyers to the lowest level in modern times.” Mr Goddard said the flight of migrant workers from Britain drove down rental prices as UK landlords faced stiffer competition for tenants. Increased repossessions and rising unemployment combined with lower rental prices had tempted more young Britons into renting.
Retail/Showroom
TO LET – Less than £4 per sq ft
TO LET - Immediately available
Unit M2, Colneside Business Park, Milnsbridge
TO LET
Crystal Works, Union Road, Heckmondwike
Northgate, Almondbury
576 m2 (6,200 sq ft)
39 m2 (420 sq ft)
High quality modern industrial/ warehouse unit only a short distance from main A62 Leeds Road
Ground floor commercial/retail space in busy parade in centre of Almondbury with parking
Joint Agent
Investment
TO LET - Flexible lease terms
836 m2 (9,000 sq ft) Good quality single storey warehouse/industrial unit with excellent communal yard facilities.
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Barncliffe Business Park, Near Bank, Shelley
tel: 01484 530361 www.bramleys.com
FOR SALE
700 – 15,000 sq ft Predominantly single storey industrial/ storage units along with office accommodation available on part recently refurbished multi-occupational complex.
TO LET – Preliminary annoucement
Retail/Showroom TO LET - Immediately available
Colne Road, Huddersfield
Joint Agent
90 m (970 sq ft) 2
Modern trade warehouse/starter unit on outer ring road adjacent Just Tyres and Plumb Centre just off Chapel Hill.
tel: 01484 530361 www.bramleys.com
PRELIMINARY ANNOUNCEMENT
Huddersfield Road, Mirfield 669 m2 (7,200 sq ft) Large open plan showroom/retail space adjacent The Bathroom Shop, Speight’s Lighting & Oxfam with large car park
For more information contact Alec Michael on 07717 870 320 or email alec@michaelsteel.co.uk
The Wellington, 47 Wellington Street, Batley Busy market town centre pub with new 10 year lease & passing rent £25,000 pax
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Lawrence Tomlinson
LNT Group BATLEY-born businessman Lawrence Tomlinson has been appointed as an official Patron for Yorkshire. The title has been bestowed on the tycoon by regional tourism agency Welcome To Yorkshire. The patronage scheme was set up earlier this year to develop an exclusive list of ambassadors from the county, who will fly the flag for the region’s tourism industry – which is worth £6.3bn to the Yorkshire economy. The selected patrons will help build on positive perceptions of the county in the UK and overseas destinations. Other chosen representatives include Yorkshire cricketer Michael Vaughan, Jet 2 chief executive Phillip Meeson and Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu. Mr Tomlinson, 45, founded Leeds-based LNT Group in 1990. The group has eight businesses spanning sectors including construction, care homes and motorsport. The group employs more than 300 people across the north .
Movers and shakers
Apprentice put on his mettle APPRENTICE Lloyd Holroyd has achieved success in double-quick time. Lloyd, an architectural metalworker with Elland-based Andy Thornton Ltd, was named Best Level 2 Apprentice in 2009 while undertaking a welding and fabrication certificate in engineering at Kirklees College in Huddersfield. What makes the achievement special is the fact that Lloyd, who lives in Elland, completed levels 1 and 2 of the course in just one year instead of the normal two. He now plans to complete Level 3 during 2010. Philip Dunn, architectural metal-
Networking group stages visitors’ day A BUSINESS networking group is staging a visitors’ day for one of its local branches. Business Network International is inviting local firms to find out more about how the group
works at a visitors’ day from 11.30am to 1.30pm tomorrow at Bagden Hall Hotel, Scissett. Mike Holman, executive director for BNI in this region, said: “We have seen more and more
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people turn to networking in the recession as it is so effective.” Contact Jill Evans on 01484 321000 or email j.evans@planet-group.co.uk for details
work manager at Andy Thornton, said: “We are extremely proud of Lloyd’s achievements. “He is an extremely hard-working and conscientious employee who thoroughly deserves this recognition.” The firm’s metalwork department specialises in making high quality structures such as entrance canopies, shelters, balustrades and staircases for exterior and interior use. Lloyd (centre) is pictured with production manager Greg Lodge (left) and architectural metalwork manager Philip Dunn at Andy Thornton’s Elland premises
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■ TASTE TEST: Simon Pope, who is paid to eat biscuits all day at Fox's Biscuits SWEET-TOOTHED Simon Pope claims to have the best job in Britain – being paid to eat an astonishing 7,080 biscuits a year. The full-time biscuit designer and tester munches his way through an extraordinary 472 whole packets of biscuits in 12 months. Simon, 41, is new product development controller for Fox’s Biscuits in Batley – which means he spends his entire day working with biscuits. This involves helping come up with new designs to seeing how they taste with a cuppa. And while it might sound like a recipe for piling on the pounds, Simon manages to keep trim by copying wine tasters and using his own home-made biscuit spittoon. He said: “It might sound like an ideal job spending your day munching biscuits, but when you have to try 20 or 30 in a day it’s obviously not going to do your waistline any favours. "So when I'm biscuit testing I’ll nibble on it, check for things like taste, texture and firmness, but I don't swallow. It’s an art I’ve acquired in the five years I’ve been doing the
job.” Simon, who is married with two children, feels he is in a privileged position in his unofficial role as Britain's biscuit guru. "'I get to study biscuit designs and styles from around the world as well as sampling them,” said Simon. “To be honest, I sometimes still can’t believe I actually get paid to eat biscuits. “Part of my job involves testing biscuits once they’re in the stores and I tend to get funny looks when I plonk 200 pounds worth of biscuits down on a checkout till.” Simon admits he also has the occasional biscuit during his office tea break – and even occasionally takes his work home with him. He said: “When friends come round to see us, I always try to educate them with something a bit rarefied, like a dark chocolate ginger biscuit – but they always end up asking for a good old classic like a crunch cream.” Simon rates his favourite biscuit as the Rocky Bar – which he's enjoyed since childhood – followed by Rich Tea.