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LAURA KIRWAN Squaring the Circle
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RAYMOND BUTTERWORTH Proper ty prospects brighter Repor t - Page 6
An EXAMINER publication
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Pioneer firm seals new funding deal
A FIRM providing thermal insulation and protection paints has sealed a major funding deal. Thermilate (Europe) Ltd, based at the Media Centre in Huddersfield, has received a second round of investment from EV, the independent venture and growth fund manager. The addition of EV’s funds will enable the company to pursue further business opportunities. Thermilate makes and distributes a range of pioneering thermal insulation and protective paints, coatings and building products for indoor and outdoor uses for domestic, commercial and industrial applications. Its growing product range is designed to save energy, reduce costs and lessen environmental impact. T h e p ro d u c t s u s e t h e l at e s t nano-insulating technologies and apply innovative formulae devised by the company’s research & development team. During 2009, Thermilate entered into a number of new trading relationships to supply thermally-efficient coatings in the UK and overseas. It is now in advanced talks with
major retailers and paint manufacturers to further expand its distribution. Jonathan Diggines, chief executive of EV, said, “This investment meets EV criteria. “We initially invested in Thermilate at a very early stage of the company’s development to help it launch its product range in the UK. “The management team has since achieved substantial growth, but there is plenty more to come from Thermilate’s environmentally-friendly and energy-saving products.” Wayne Thomas, EV investment director for the deal, said: “It was key to our investment decision that Thermilate developed its ra nge of thermally-efficient coatings and building products based on the company’s proprietary intellectual property. “Burgeoning global demand for reduced carbon usage means that ■ TEAM TALK: Thermilate managing director Ash Ashfaq (second left) with many organisations are now looking at colleagues (from left) Chris Crabtree, Beverley Weigert and Hannah Smith alternative sources of building and related materials – and this is Thermilour business. implementation of plans for growth, ate’s clear market opportunity.” “We are already trading very health- through development of our organisaThermilate managing director Ash Ashfaq said: “We are delighted that ily and with the additional investment tion, especially our marketing and EV has shown further commitment to we are accelerating the immediate sales and technology infrastructures.”
Flooding alert sounds in wake of big freeze KIRKLEES firms have been urged to check water pipes for leaks as temperatures rise in the wake of the big freeze. Yorkshire Water sounded the warning after reporting a 50% rise in call-outs from companies to tackle leaks.
The Bradford-based company said plunging temperatures had caused pipes to crack as the frozen ground around them exerted extra pressure. Water in exposed pipes could also freeze – putting businesses at risk of losing crucial water supplies. A spokesman said businesses could
take a few simple steps to save themselves thousands of pounds of costly repair bills – with measures including ensuring that all pipework, cisterns and tanks in unheated areas like lofts, roofs and underfloor spaces are well insulated and that insulating materials meet British Standards.
Simon Redfearn, customer services team leader for Yorkshire Water, said: “Our teams have been working around the clock to provide extra support. We’d urge anyone experiencing problems to get in touch with us.” Go to yorkshirewater.com/yourbusiness or call 08456 789789.
INSIDE Blooming success A LANDSCAPING firm in Kirklees has won an award for training in its 30th year. Mirfield-based Grace Landscapes Ltd was named Employer of the Year at the annual awards run by the British Association of Landscape Industries. The company received the award at a ceremony at London’s Grosvenor Hotel
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Brush strokes Birstall-based Leyland Paints joined forces with an up-and-coming Yorkshire sports star for a charity karting challenge at the Autosport International event at Birmingham’s NEC.
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national
Sales perform well for model kits firm MODEL toy maker Hornby reported a major boost in pre-Christmas orders despite earlier worries about a fragile UK market. In November, the Airfix and Scalextric firm reported caution among some UK retailers on buying in stock – but the situation “improved significantly” in the run-up to the festive season, Hornby said. The trend continued into early January as demand for its products remained strong, putting retailers’ stocks at “historically low levels”. “We are delighted that the appeal of our products remains strong,” Hornby added. Best-sellers for the Margate-based company included Scalextric products based on the Formula One Grand Prix teams and Disney/Pixar’s animated
adventure Cars. Hornby has also secured licences with Disney/Pixar for model tie-ins for Toy Story 3, which is set for release in the summer. The group holds the rights to produce branded toys for the London 2012 Olympics, including a limited edition of the London-Beijing-London han-
Ferrero clears way for Kraft bid ITALIAN confectioner Ferrero ruled itself out of the Cadbury takeover race after last week’s recommended £11.9bn bid from US food giant Kraft. Ferrero, which makes Ferrero Rocher chocolates, had been weighing up its options over Cadbury since November amid rumours that it could make a joint approach with US rival Hershey. But Hershey formally withdrew from the race on Friday, clearing the way for Kraft’s takeover. Kraft, which makes products including Terry’s Chocolate Orange and Maxwell House coffee, has also given more details about the terms of its offer.
Although Kraft’s offer for Cadbury last week included 500p cash, some investors can opt to be paid 799p in cash if other shareholders choose to accept a greater proportion of Kraft’s shares in payment. The total value of the US firm’s offer – including a 10p special dividend – has edged down from 850p to 837p because of the pound’s fall against the dollar since December. This lowers the conversion price of Kraft’s shares, which are priced in dollars. Shareholders have until February 2 to accept Kraft’s offer, which will create the world’s biggest chocolate and sweets firm with more than 40 major confectionery brands.
dover bus. Hornby has gained positive feedback on its early Olympics products and will launch more products for collectors across its brands later this year. The fir m continued to make improvements to its supply chain in China, which was disrupted by the takeover of its main supplier by Hong
Kong toy firm Kader. Hornby has broadened its supplier base to reduce its exposure to a single company, although Kader is now delivering increased capacity and volumes. This gave the firm “renewed confidence” about being able to meet demand – particularly in Europe, where profits will be “significantly ahead” of last year. The strength of the euro has helped offset the weakness of the pound against the dollar earlier in the year. This left pre-tax profits sharply lower in the six months to September 30, at £700,000 against £1.8m a year earlier. Chairman Neil Johnson said the recent pick-up in the pound against the dollar would also help the firm rebuild squeezed UK margins and stand Hornby in “good stead”.
Banks to rein in bonuses GOLDMAN Sachs is set to cap the 2009 pay and bonuses of 100 UK-based partners at £1m each in a bid to ease public anger at huge payouts, it was claimed. The investment bank’s move represents a sacrifice of several hundred million pounds, it is understood. But many UK executives below partner level will still earn more than £1m – as the bank believes restricting pay packets could damage its ability to recruit and retain the best staff. Last week Goldman, which employs 5,500 people in the UK, announced it had set aside £10bn for compensation and benefits last year – a whopping 48% above 2008 levels.
But the bank said its share of revenues paid out in salary and benefits for 2009 was 35.8% – its lowest as a public company. Last week, US president Barack Obama called for a ban on retail banks using their own money in investments and restrictions to banks’ abilities to make high-risk trades. British high street giant Barclays has said it is likely to defer paying bonuses to its highest earning staff for up to three years. Royal Bank of Scotland, which is 84% owned by the taxpayer following a string of bail-outs, is expected to pay up to £1.5bn in bonuses to its investment bankers.
Page 2 Break-up approved THE break-up of failed Bradford & Bingley has been cleared by European officials. B&B’s savings business was sold to Spain’s Santander in September, 2008, and its loan book nationalised at the height of the financial crisis. The European Commission said its decision was “closing the chapter” on UK bank restructuring caused by the financial crisis. The Commission concluded that the 10-year plan to close down B&B “ensures an orderly winding-down in a manner which maintains financial stability”. According to reports, B&B is close to agreeing a deal to merge its loan book with Northern Rock’s asset management arm. The Commission approved restructuring plans for Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group in November.
European role axed PLUMB Center and Build Center group Wolseley is scrapping the role of European chief executive to “focus on business unit performance and accelerate decision making”. Incumbent Rob Marchbank will leave on March 1 and the group will now seek to appoint a UK managing director.
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £23.14 -0.61 Gannett 979.87 +30.77 Hess Corp £36.83 +0.71 Microsoft 1800.95 +18.46 Motors Liquidation 46.16 Wal-Mart Stores £32.56 -0.02 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE BAE Systems 3541/2 -5 Rolls-Royce Gp 480 +3/4 Smiths Grp 1001 -1 VT Group 537 AIM Brady Plc 671/2 -1/2 Dawson Intl 17/8 +1/8 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 1181/2 -1/8 BANKS Barclays 276 +45/8 HSBC 6743/4 +11/4 Lloyds Banking Gp 527/8 -5/8 3 Ryl Scotland 35 /8 +5/8 Stan Chart 1445 +17 BEVERAGES Diageo 1059 -9 SABMiller 1672 -33 CHEMICALS Croda 779 -11 Delta 1481/4 -23/4 Elementis 98 51 Johnsn Mat 1494 -22 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2701/2 -63/4 Costain 243/4 +1/4 ELECTRICITY
Drax Grp 4161/4 -51/4 Intl Power 313 -3 Scottish & Sthrn 1173 -6 Energy ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Chloride 1877/8 +7/8 Invensys 3013/4 -53/8 3 Laird 129 /4 -33/8 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 318 -1/8 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 1393/8 -31/4 C&W 1425/8 -13/8 Colt Telecom 1293/4 -23/4 1 KCOM 53 /4 -11/2 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS Morrison W 2907/8 -31/2 Sainsbury 3263/8 -7/8 3 Tesco 415 /4 -6 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 8731/2 -61/2 Cadbury 825 -71/2 1 Nth Foods 64 /4 -11/4 Tate Lyle 4003/4 -15/8 Unilever 1911 -17 Uniq 261/2 -1/2 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 2791/8 -21/8 National Grid 637 -7 1 Pennon Grp 531 /2 -8 Severn 1137 -11 1 United Utils 526 /2 +31/2 GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 265 -41/2 ICAP 3943/4 -27/8
London StockExch 6611/2 -3 Man Group 2643/4 -73/4 Provident Financial 943 -61/2 Schroders 1268 -1 Schroders NV 9991/2 -51/2 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS Avon Rbbr 92 +21/2 Cooksn Grp 4283/4 -11/4 REXAM 2993/4 +25/8 GENERAL RETAILERS Ashley L 111/2 -2 DSG International 331/2 -1/4 1 Home Retail 254 /2 -23/4 Inchcape 267/8 -1/8 3 Kingfisher 220 /4 -23/4 1 M&S 346 /2 -11/2 Mothercare 618 -261/2 Next 1919 -23 WH Smith 490 -1 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 6251/2 -3 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 129 -6 Barrat Dev 1267/8 -1/4 Persimmon 451 -2 Reckitt Benckiser £313/4 -3/8 Taylor Wimpey 393/8 -1/2 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING Charter 713 -31/2 IMI 549 +91/2 Man Brnze 108 -2 INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 2133/8 -55/8 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BBA Aviation 1615/8 -11/4
Forth Ports
1110 LIFE INSURANCE Aviva 3947/8 Lgl & Gen 79 Old Mutual 1033/4 Prudential 6041/2 Resolution 797/8 Standard Life 2011/2 MEDIA BSkyB 5471/2 Chrysalis 102 D Mail Tst 4577/8 ITV 573/8 Johnston Press 281/4 Pearson 8791/2 Reed Elsevier 506 STV Group 501/2 Trinity Mirror 1523/4 Utd Business 4277/8 UTV 100 WPP 596 Yell Group 361/2 MINING Anglo American £245/8 Antofagasta 9331/2 BHP Billiton 19141/2 Eurasian Natural 9321/2 Res Fresnillo 7141/2 Kazakhmys 1304 Lonmin 1856 Rio Tinto £321/4 VEDANTA £251/4 RESOURCES Xstrata 11021/2 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES Inmarsat 669
+10 -21/4 +23/4 +1/4 -1 -3/8 +21/8 +31/2 3
-3 /4 -1/8 +1/4 -6 -10 -11/2 -31/2 -33/4 +1 +1/2 +3/8 -1/2 -81/2 -20 -22 +2 +10 +15 -3/4 -1/4 -221/2 +1/2
Local shares Carclo Chapelthorpe Marshalls National Grid Rensburg Sheppards Weir Gp
150 15 87 637 5971/2 7641/2
-5 -2 -7
-11/2
FTSE closed at
5260.3 Down 42.6 Vodafone Group 1331/2 NONLIFE INSURANCE Admiral Grp 1127 RSA Insurance Gp 1283/8 OIL & GAS PRODUCERS BG 1174 BP 599 Cairn Energy 3371/4 Norsk Hdro 469 Royal Dutch Shell A 1788 Royal Dutch Shell B 1723 Total £371/4 Tullow Oil 1261 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Petrofac 956
-2 +13 +25/8 -10 -65/8 -43/4 -7/8 -19 -20 -3/8 -17 +71/2
Wood Group 3347/8 -13/4 PERSONAL GOODS Burberry 617 +2 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £301/2 Axis-Shield 410 +5 GlaxoSmithK 261/2 Shire 1220 -11 REAL ESTATE Brit Land 4381/4 +61/4 DTZ Hldgs 78 +11/2 Hamrsn 3851/4 -7/8 Land Secs 654 +3 SEGRO 316 -21/4 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Autonomy Corp 1529 -1 Dimension Data 785/8 +11/8 1 Logica 119 /4 +7/8 Misys 2161/4 +15/8 3 Sage Group 237 /4 +17/8 SUPPORT SERVICES AMEC 7331/2 -81/2 Bunzl 6261/2 +51/2 Capita 726 +1 Davis Service 4153/4 -33/4 Group De La Rue 984 +11/2 Electrocomp 1763/4 -23/4 1 Experian 606 /2 +41/2 G4S 2531/8 -1/4 Hays 1111/4 +3/4 Homeserve 1660 -62 Menzies J 3171/2 -1/2 Rentokil 1157/8 -11/4 Smiths News 117 +3/4 Wolseley 1435 +15
IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs Psion Spirent Comms
1893/8 92 1083/8
TOURIST RATES
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TOBACCO Br Am Tob Imperial Tobacco
£201/4 1991
-1/4 -17
LEISURE & HOTELS Arriva 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
466 2075/8 £221/2 4451/2 387 1143/4 3711/4 1350 428 921 154 2691/4 2063/8 2931/2 903/8 1761/2 2663/4 1358
-71/8 -1/4 -1/8 -11/2 +7 -23/4 +21/4 +27/8 +51/2 +13/4 -15/8 -3/8 +8 +11/2 -3/4 -6
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
profile
Laura Kirwan
Laura makes a good move SELF-EMPLOYMENT is even better the second time around for Holmfirth-based marketing specialist Laura Kirwan. Laura, 32, worked as a freelance for six months after a career in marketing with several London-based companies before joining theatre and training company CragRats and progressing to the post of marketing director. Now she is back in business for herself after the recession claimed CragRats as one of its victims. And she believes she can use that unhappy experience to positive effect when working with her clients. Laura, who was born in Stoke on Trent, but grew up in Elland and attended Brooksbank School, left Huddersfield when she was 18 to complete a business degree at Nottingham Business School. “I wanted to go to art school originally,” she says. “But I quickly realised that perhaps I wasn’t a good enough artist and it wouldn’t be a good career choice. I took a business degree – which is what a lot of people seem to do when they don’t know what they really want as a career!” After graduating, she went to work in London as a marketing executive at Reuters. “I wanted to sample the big corporate world,” Laura recalls, “But I was always trying to work my way back to Huddersfield.” She achieve that goal by completing her post graduate qualification at Leeds Business School. After that, she went
freelance, although her clients were all based in London. “Eventually I found a job at CragRats, where I worked for six years and became marketing director,” says Laura. “It had been a challenge to get back to what I regard as my home town! “But the idea of working for myself again was always at the back of my mind. “Being a director at the top of an organisation – working with clients such as BAE Systems, BT and the Learning and Skills Council – has given me a good level of experience.” Laura says circumstances “forced her hand” – when CragRats was hit by the recession and clients cut back on their training budgets. Seventy people lost their jobs as the Holmfirth-based company went into administration due to severe cash flow problems. “I was one of the four board members and it was
■ CAPITAL MOVE: Laura Kirwan is happy to be home
a shock to me,” she recalls. “We had huge contracts in place right until the last minute. “Although we knew things were tough – because we had very slim profit margins – CragRats was always an altruistic organisation with a really healthy order book. But the recession meant training budgets were being cut and business dried up overnight.” The experience left a clear impression on Laura, who says: “You can win all the awards and have the best marketing, a healthy pipeline of orders, sound products and great people. But in the middle of a recession, a lot can go wrong and it can take you by surprise.” As founder of Circle Marketing – and its website wearecircle.co.uk – Laura spends much of her time as an “outsourced marketing director” helping companies develop their business strategy. “People are desperately trying to build up orders and deliver products and services, particularly during a recession. “But it’s like being a hamster on a wheel and means business managers and owners aren’t taking a step back to look at the whole business. “It’s something every business needs to do. Now is the time to focus on the big picture because, hopefully, we are coming out of the recession. If your company has survived so far, well done, but things can still go wrong. It’s also the start of a new year when people traditionally
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Role: Director Age: 32 Family: Married to husband Johnny Holidays: South Africa and Thailand Car: Freelander First job: Marketing executive with Reuters Best thing about job: Helping businesses thrive Worst thing about job: Working from home and having to resist the lure of the biscuit barrel! Business tip: Take time to look at your strategy and speak to an expert
Circle Marketing take stock of things.” Laura has developed an online health check to allow company bosses to “take the temperature” of their business and look at fundamental areas of concern. One of the things companies should consider is to develop a marketing strategy – which can encompass website design, branding and re-branding as well as PR and e-marketing as ways to get the company’s products noticed more widely. Circle Marketing’s clients include ones in sectors such as training and education, manufacturing e-commerce and business services. Most of them are SMEs in Huddersfield, Leeds and Manchester areas. Laura says: “There are plenty of opportunities because everyone needs some help over marketing, but everyone is cautious. They want to work with credible people.” Laura is a chartered marketer and along with her business degree and post graduate qualifications in marketing is an SME ambassador for the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Some of her time is spent speaking at free CIM events and giving marketing clinics to provide firms with the pointers they need to set them on the right track to improving their marketing performance. Laura enjoys the flexibility of working for herself from home, saying: “It keeps me very busy. Like any business, the first
but I am passionate about marketing and helping my clients. “I don’t mind when things are dropped on me at the last minute, even if that means working over the weekends.”
HENRYK ZIENTEK
Work: Strategy, branding and marketing communications Sites: Holmfirth Phone: 07969 793150 Email: laura@ weare circle.co.uk
local
Driving ambition A BRIGHOUSE car dealer has helped drive sales for Alfa Romeo in the UK. Dews Garage, based at Bradford Road, contributed to Alfa Romeo UK achieving its highest sales figures since 2003 – with total sales for 2009 up by 52% on the previous year. Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders showed annual sales of 9,067 vehicles in 2009 against 5,950 in 2008. The increase came against a background of a declining UK car market. Craig Hamer, dealer principal at Dews Garage, said the sales success was boosted by strong demand for the Alfa MiTo, claiming: “The launch of the Alfa MiTo has been a key to our sales this year.” The Italian marque, which celebrates its centenary this year, is set for the spring launch of the MiTo MultiAir – the latest in greener performance engines as well as a five-door Alfa Giulietta this summer.
Time to chip in! FIRMS across Kirklees are urged to enter a competition recognising the best use of digital technology. Organisers of the Big Chip Awards are calling for more entries from Yorkshire firms following its most successful year ever in 2009. Last year’s competition attracted a record 234 entries – and 2010’s award ceremony looks to be the biggest and best to date. The awards include a North of England Award, a new Little Chip Award for exceptional student achievement and a Big Green Chip Award. Categories will be judged by a panel of leading industry figures chaired by Michael Nutley, editor-in-chief of New Media Age. The awards, organised by Manchester Digital, are open to digital companies, creative agencies and any organisation or business which has undertaken digital initiatives in the past year. Entries should be submitted o n l i n e a t w w w. b i g c h i p awards.com. The closing date for entries is Monday, March 1.
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KIRKLEES BUSIN
Firms facing rise in frauds
REPORTED fraud more than doubled in Yorkshire last year, latest figures have revealed. Specialist fraud investigators at BDO said fraud totalled £280m in the region last year against £133m in 2008. The £147m increase in Yorkshire and the north-east represents the second largest hike in reported fraud levels nationally – with the region just behind London and the south-east. Nationally, the amount lost by businesses and the public sector to larger frauds increased last year by 76% during the recession – with both the number and size of frauds increasing dramatically. And BDO warned that worse was to come. Annual reported corporate fraud could hit the £5bn mark in the next few years as more fraud is uncovered through management questioning costs more closely and tighter cashflow and credit making fraud harder to hide. Simon Bevan, head of fraud at BDO in West Yorkshire, said: “2009 saw the steepest increase since our
report began seven years ago – with the average value of each fraud now over £5m compared to £1.8m in 2003. “Based on my experience of the two previous recessions, I expect that reported fraud will treble over the next two years. There has always been a lag effect, with reported fraud continuing to rise for at least a couple of years after businesses start to come out of the recession. “A large part of this will be a tidal wave of fraudulent borrowing that has only just started to appear – particularly through use of over-valued properties as security for loans – while the property market was booming. “Many of these frauds are yet to be recognised by the banks, which still have them classified as non-perform■ FRAUD WARNING: Simon ing loans.” Said Mr Bevan: “It is only when Bevan, head of BDO Stoy specialist recovery departments start Hayward’s fraud services team thorough investigations and eventually litigating against alleged dishon- will come to light. “It will take many years for the est borrowers and their complicit advisers that the true nature of these excesses of the past years to work potentially horrendous fraud losses through the system.”
Orchard proves fruitful A COMPANY providing firms with energy advice is the latest winner of a monthly business award. Brighouse-based Orchard Energy Ltd was recognised for its success in the awards run by Huddersfield law firm Eaton Smith and the Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. The company, established by managing director Gareth Henderson in August, 2004, has committed itself to simplifying the energy management process for its customers. Orchard vigorously campaigns to make businesses aware of differing energy tariffs and payment plans. Judges in the award said that Orchard has displayed “conspicuous success and growth” – employing 20 local people and becoming a prime mover in the utility intermediary sector. The company has built strong relationships with the power companies – enabling it to increase its buying power and get instant access to the right departments. Through hard work and dedicated support, Orchard has been able to eliminate the difficulties clients face when dealing with their energy process – resulting in clients regaining confidence and control of their energy management. Orchard works independent of all energy suppliers, allowing its clients
Shortlisted for a top award A FIRM providing ecoloy and environmental services in Huddersfield has been shortlisted for a national award. Betts Ecology is among the finalists in the Small Business Local Legends competition run by smallbusiness.co.uk and supported by insurance provider Insurantz.com. The contest aims to identify the SMEs which encapsulate the true spirit of entrepreneurship in their local communities. Betts Ecology, founded in 1985, has offices at the Media Centre in Huddersfield and in Worcestershire and Kent. It stems from the Betts family business which was formed in 1760 to refine and recycle high value industrial wastes and mineral ores. The company is a member of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment. Betts Ecology impressed judges with its proven ability to weather the economic highs and lows of the past quarter of a century. Chairman Dr Christopher Betts said: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this competition and to be recognised for the hard work and effort we have put into building and maintaining our business over the years. “The work we do is varied – from helping a client to build a new sett for a family of badgers to creating new ponds for European protected species like the great crested newt or even moving rare grassland from one area to another to ensure its survival. “We believe it is the knowledgeable and dedicated team of staff at Betts Ecology who are the real key to our success – it is their perseverance and sheer hard work that makes it all happen.” Voting for the Local Legends competition closes on Friday. Vote at www.smallbusiness.co.uk
Hospitality sector shines ■ ENERGY RATING: Alison Palmer (centre), of Eaton Smith presents the award to Gareth Henderson (third right) and Rachel Henderson (second right, of Orchard Energy Ltd, with (from left) Greg Flynn, of Lloyds TSB; Bob Styring, of Business Link Yorkshire; Kathryn Shuttleworth, of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce; and Henryk Zientek, of the Examiner
to enjoy complete transparency and total confidence in their recommendations. The company works alongside clients – providing regular updates on consumption reporting, invoice validation, market intelligence, metering and general housekeeping. Judges said this “trusted partner
approach” has been key to its success and the reason why Orchard are this month’s winners of the Eaton Smith Business of the Month Award. The award is open to all companies in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. For details, go to www.eatonsmith.co.uk or contact Ian Greenwood on 01484 821389
BUSINESSES in the hospitality industry in Kirklees have been urged to enter a regional award. Hotels, restaurants, bars and pubs have the chance to win prizes in the 2010 Northern Hospitality Awards, which takes place on April 12 at the Hilton, Deansgate, Manchester. The deadline for entries is Friday, February 19. The competition, run by Moorfield Media, features eight categories. Go to www.northern hospitalityawards.co.uk or obtained by calling 0161 2355224.
NESS NEWS
local
Blooming good show for Grace
A LANDSCAPING company in Kirklees has won an award for training in its 30th year. Mirfield-based Grace Landscapes Ltd, which also has offices in Chesterfield, Warrington and Durham, was named Employer of the Year at the annual awards run by the British Association of Landscape Industries. The company, which has been an association member for 25 years, received the award at a presentation ceremony at London’s Grosvenor Hotel. The award was presented to founder and chairman Tim Grace and managing director Hugh Pawsey. Grace Landscapes, which has more than 150 staff and turnover exceeding £6m, was formed in 1978 by Mr Grace after he completed his national diploma at Askham Bryan College, near York. From humble beginnings with a single van, the company now has a fleet of more than 50 vehicles and carries out commercial landscape construction and maintenance contracts from the Scottish Borders to the Home Counties. Mr Pawsey first worked for the company as an Askham Bryan student in 1982. He joined the firm as a director three years later. As managing director, he now heads the senior management team. The company undertakes a wider variety of work – from clearing allotment sites for
■ LAND LORDS: Nat Spencer (left), operations manager at Grace Landscapes, with chairman Tim Grace (centre) and managing director Hugh Pawsey and the award
Kirklees Council to constructing and maintaining landscape projects on new retail developments. Ian Fearnley, who joined Grace Landscapes 24 years ago, is now company training co-ordinator.
He registered the company with City and Guilds as a training provider in 1999 and with the help of funding from various government training schemes as helped more than 100 apprentices undertake their NVQs.
Network is heading to town A NETWORKING group for women in business is coming to Kirklees. Forward Ladies has joined forces with Ramsdens Solicitors, HSBC and the Heritage Group to stage a series of “interactive and fun networking events” throughout the district during 2010. Etta Cohen, founder of Forward Ladies, said: “The entrepreneurial spirit of West Yorkshire astounds me. “And teaming up with local businesses like Ramsdens Solicitors, HSBC and the Heritage Group allows us to provide a local networking forum for women in business to expand their contacts with the ultimate aim of doing deals to grow their businesses in Kirklees. “Women will be able to utilise one of their best skills to build their businesses – communication.” Jill Hague, area commercial director at HSBC, said: “We are delighted to continue to support and work with Ramsdens and Heritage Group as well as sponsoring Forward Ladies. “There are many good things that we are doing to encourage females in the organisation to progress and
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■ BUSINESS TALK: Forward Ladies networking group founder Etta Cohen (left) with (from left) Mandy Barwick, group operations manager at Heritage Group; Vicky Broadley, commercial manager at HSBC; Sinéad Sopala, marketing manager at Ramsdens Solicitors; Danielle Firth, business centre manager at Heritage Exchange; Claire Richardson and Jackie Astbury, human resources and training managers at Ramsdens
develop. However, there are things we can improve on through our local network groups.” Sinéad Sopala, marketing manager at Ramsdens, said: “We are really excited about this venture and the opportunities it can generate.” Mandy Barwick, of the Lindley-based Heritage Group, said: “We are pleased to partner in this initiative and hope that this forum and our calendar of future events will help local business women by
providing events with inspirational guest speakers and training opportunities for personal development and business growth.” The launch event is open to women in business in Kirklees. The first event, Unlocking the Secrets of Effective Networking, is from 11am to 1pm on Thursday, January 28, at Heritage Exchange, Wellington Mills, Lindley. Register at www.forwardladies.co.uk or contact Sinéad Sopala on 01484 558 087.
Tourism campaign KIRKLEES tourist spots are being promoted as a holiday destination in countries across the Far East. Welcome to Yorkshire, the tourism agency for the region, is staging its first marketing campaign in China. The campaign also takes in Hong Kong, Singapore and mainland China. Peter Dodd, international sales director for Welcome to Yorkshire, will meet international tour operators and travel journalists to highlight what Yorkshire has to offer and promote the county as a place for the Chinese to spend their holidays. He said: “China alone has over a fifth of the world’s population and millions of people from China, Hong Kong and Singapore visit London every year. “Our aim to educate the tour operators and media who influence the booking of those trips about the richness, the vibrancy, the history, beauty and accessibility of Yorkshire to London and to welcome more visitors from the Far East to our county.” As part of the trip, Welcome to Yorkshire will present gifts, including packs of Taylor’s Yorkshire Tea and Grandma Wild’s Yorkshire Biscuits – while government ministers will receive a special 1877 edition of Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights to highlight the appeal of Haworth and other sites linked to the Bronte sisters.
Small is beautiful SMALL firms are better equipped to withstand insolvency, it is claimed. Figures from credit insurer Euler Hermes UK showed that small companies with shareholder funds of less than £100,000 are less likely to fail than those with substantially larger resources. “It is only when we look at companies with shareholder funds of more than £5m that the insolvency rate really starts to come back down,” said Kris Macauley, head of risk information. “Businesses falling in the bands in between show considerably higher rates of insolvency.”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Property investors returning THE property investment market has started to recover, says a Huddersfield estate agent. Raymond Butterworth (pictured) of Boultons, said the agency had enjoyed a successful 2009 in the auction room. Said Mr Butterworth: “We experienced increased demand for all sectors of the investment market, but particularly for tenanted or vacant residential property, ground rents, tenanted retail premises and properties in need of renovation. “Setting realistic reserve prices in 2009 resulted in buyers seeking better long-term returns on their money, especially bearing in mind the historically low bank rate – thus making money cheap to borrow while at the same time there being only a very small return on capital invested in the banking world. “This demand helped to ensure that Boultons averaged a success rate of more than 76% during the year and produced total sales of more than £6.1m from the five auctions held at the Galpharm Stadium in Huddersfield.” Mr Butterworth said Boultons was now taking entries for its first auction of 2010, which will be held on February 25 at the stadium. Said Mr Butterworth: “The highest single price obtained at auction last year was for a farmhouse with three-acre paddock in Lepton, which realised £435,000, while the lowest price was for a single story under dwelling in Golcar, which realised £32,500.”
Express delivery A NATIONAL commercial property consultancy has won a major contract to provide retail property advice to bus and rail company National Express. Lambert Smith Hampton will work with the transport company, which operates across Yorkshire, to attract national retailers to its bus and rail stations. Stuart Parker, director of property at National Express Group, said: “LSH’s appointment is an integral part of National Express’ commitment to providing our customers with first class facilities, which is demonstrated by the £15m redevelopment of our flagship coach station in Birmingham. With the support of LSH we have secured leading brand retailers to operate in the new coach station. “We are pleased to have awarded this contract to LSH and are confident in the firm’s innovative and strategic approach to maximise retail opportunities for the Group’s bus and coach portfolios going forward.” Paul Barnett, transport director at LSH, said: “We are delighted to have secured this prestigious nationwide contract. The three-year contract, with the option of a two-year extension, will be managed across LSH’s Leeds and London offices.
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Scheme to help apprenticeships A SCHEME to encourage building industry employers to take on an apprentice who has lost a previous position due to the recession has been extended. Even more employers will be eligible to receive £1,000 to take on an apprentice under the scheme run by ConstructionSkills, the UK’s sector skills council for construction. The offer is open for all apprentices who have completed college induction training, registered for their framework with Construction Awards Alliance or other approved body and completed a period of site training to allow collection of work-based evidence. ConstructionSkills launched the Apprenticeship Matching Service early in 2009 to help employers retain their apprentices or – when this was not possible – match displaced apprentices with employers in the area. The scheme was initiated in response to the high numbers of young apprentices in Yorkshire being made unemployed as a direct result of the tough economic conditions felt by the construction industry. In order to attract even more employers in Yorkshire to take on apprentices, ConstructionSkills and the National Apprenticeship Service have decided to extend the original funding which was available to employers for
taking on a displaced apprentice. Previously, only those employers in Yorkshire who had taken on an apprentice in the last 12 months of their training could receive the extra money. All displaced apprentices have been put on a national register in a bid to find new work placements for apprentices who cannot continue training with their original employer. Russell Buckley, apprenticeship manager for ConstructionSkills Yorkshire and Humber, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to open up this offer to a far wider audience. “The Apprenticeship Matching Service team has already found new placements for over a third of apprentices that have been
laid-off and there are more we can help, but we really do need the support of employers. “We understand that employers are having a tough time at the moment and that taking on new staff might not be seen as a plausible option financially. “However, I must stress that apprentices add significant value to a business and its bottom line – through their determination, hard work, enthusiasm and loyalty! “This is especially the case for displaced apprentices as they have already received some learning and will possess a certain degree of on-site competency already.” Go to www.cskills.org
Home fixture for Town HUDDERSFIELD Town has launched a new scheme with Kirklees Council – to provide special offers for council tenants. The Galpharm Stadium was the venue for the launch of the 2010 KNH Excel Discount Card by the club and Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing. More than 100 representatives from KNH partner businesses as well as its staff and tenant representatives attended the launch in the Fantastic Media Suite. Speakers included KNH chief executive Simon Rogers, director of investment Noel Chambers, Town commercial director Sean Jarvis and Kirklees Council leader Clr Mehboob Khan. KNH is an “arm’s length” management organisation owned by Kirklees Council, which manages about 23,000 council properties in the district. KNH launched its Excel Discount Card in January 2007. The card is used by tenants and KNH staff in more than 150 local shops and businesses. Over the last three years, the number of partner businesses involved has increased to 260 – with Town one of the latest to join up. KNH and Town formed a partnership in March last year to work together promoting community engagement – with the club providing special offers, free match day tickets and a children’s competition in KNH’s tenant magazine Door to Door. Mr Rogers said: “I’m very pleased that Huddersfield Town continue to work in partnership with KNH. “The club is making a very generous contribution to our discount card scheme –
■ CARD PLAYERS: Clr Mehboob Khan (right), leader of Kirklees Council with Huddersfield Town commercial director Sean Jarvis (centre) and (from left) Noel Chambers, Helen O'Sullivan and Simon Rogers, of Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing
as well as jointly launching the 2010 KNH Excel Discount Card – but they’re also supporting us in our wider mission which is to help create successful communities in Kirklees. “It’s a fantastic partnership for all involved, but especially for our tenants and leaseholders and their families who will
benefit from the new offers.” Mr Jarvis said: “The partnership between ourselves and Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing was one of the real positives for the club commercially in 2009 and I hope that the launch of the 2010 discount scheme will prove to be just as successful.”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
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Private landlords list red tape as big worry REGULATION tops the list of concerns among private landlords, a report has revealed. Research by Paragon Mortgages showed that six out of 10 landlords are worried about the level of regulation required in relation to running their property business this year. Many are also concerned about funding property and tenant disputes. John Heron, managing director at Paragon Mortgages, said landlords operating in the private rented sector were already heavily regulated – with an estimated 50 Acts of Parliament and 70 sets of regulations governing the sector. But he warned that more could be on the way – with the Government recently concluding a consultation on the launch of a national mandatory registration scheme for landlords. Ministers are due to report back shortly. In addition, the Treasury is consult-
ing on proposals to extend the Financial Services Authority’s remit to regulate the buy-to-let sector – which it is feared will tighten buy-to-let product availability and increase the cost of mortgages, having an effect on residential property investors and tenants. Said Mr Heron: “It is not surprising that regulation tops the list of landlords’ concerns for the year. “They already have to comply with a myriad of regulations, which seem to be regularly added to or amended by the Government. “Several new statutes have been introduced in recent years, including Energy Performance Certificates, tenancy deposit protection and Houses in Multiple Occupation licensing. “Employing a good managing agent can help, but individual landlords have ultimate responsibility to ensure that they are complying with the necessary rules and regulations. ‘But regulation can also impact
landlords indirectly. “For example, if the Treasury legislates to give the FSA the power to regulate the buy-to-let market, then buy-to-let mortgage product availability may decline and it could become more expensive to borrow. “Any extra costs are likely to be passed on to the ultimate end user – the tenant – and could price the private rented sector out of the reach of some of the more vulnerable households. This must be avoided.” With buy-to-let lending levels subdued and mortgage product availability limited, 37% of landlords polled said they were worried about how they will fund property purchases in 2010. Almost a third of those questioned also expressed concerns about retaining and finding tenants, while tenant disputes were a concern for 24% of landlords and 12% were worried about meeting mortgage payments.
■ CONTENDER: Huddersfield University’s futuristic creative arts building was one of the nominees in a previous Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Pro Yorkshire Awards for outstanding construction projects across the region. Organisers are now seeking nominations for the 2010 awards
More time to take part in top awards CONSTRUCTION industry businesses in Kirklees have been given extra time to submit their entries for a top regional award. The deadline for the annual Pro-Yorkshire Awards run by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has been extended to Friday, January 29. Known as the region’s property ‘Oscars’, the awards are held annually and celebrate the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment. RICS chiefs are concerned that the extended festive break and the recent bad weather means that many people have missed work and have not had the opportunity to put in their entries.
Yorkshire & Humberside regional board and head of the Pro-Yorkshire Awards judging panel, said: “We want to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to nominate their favourite project.” The awards will be presented at a glittering awards dinner at The Pavilion, Elland Road, Leeds, on May 14. Eight categories cover building conservation, commercial, community benefit, design and innovation, regeneration, residential, sustainability and tourism and leisure. There is also a Project of the Year award for the scheme that has excelled across all eight categories. For further information and an entry form, contact RICS events manager Jenny
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AGENTS CONSULTANT ADVISOR •
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TRAFALGAR MILLS LEEDS ROAD HUDDERSFIELD HD2 1YY •
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Modern Industrial Units To Let Fieldhouse Park, Leeds Road, Huddersfield Units 9, 11 and 12 From 8,900sq ft to 11,986sq ft Secure site which benefits from CCTV monitoring. Ideally situated for M62, on a main road location. Terms available on application. Contact: Jason Metcalfe/Phil Deakin Hanson Chartered Surveyors 01484 432043
TO LET/FOR SaLE
Pennine Business Park Bradley, Huddersfield
1 High specification offices 1 372 & 557m2 (4,000 & 6,000 sq ft) 1 Ease of access to Junction 25 of the M62 Rental/Price: On application. Joint agents: Eddisons
FOR SaLE – PRiCE REduCEd 7 Martin Street
Brighouse
1 Modern workshop & offices 1 548.21m2 (5,901 sq ft) 1 Close proximity to Junction 25 of the M62 Price: £210,000
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Bradford Road, Cleckheaton
1 Prominent ground floor offices 1 42 – 84m2 (449 – 898 sq ft) 1 Ease of access to Junction 26 of the M62 Rental: On application
TO LET
9 Brook Street
Huddersfield
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1 336.86m2 (3,626 sq ft) 1 Substantial town centre retail/leisure unit 1 Suitable for licensed trade use Rental: £20,000 pax
Paul Andrew Walker Singleton 01484 477600
Christine Eccleston MB Services 01484 557102
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Kate McIntyre & Paul Stevenson
Business Link TWO senior appointments have been announced by Business Link Yorkshire. Kate McIntyre joins the business support body as operations director while Paul Stevenson has been recruited as director of partnerships and marketing. Ms McIntyre, a chartered accountant, started her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers and has worked at a number of organisations, including Skipton Building Society, First Direct, AXA PPP Healthcare and HBOS. She has significant senior level experience in strategy, customer service, operations and change management. Her achievements include leading the team to launch First Direct onto the internet, changing the claims handling process at Halifax Household Insurance and supporting thousands of customers through the flooding of summer 2007. She also led on the acquisition of a dental insurance business while at AXA PPP Healthcare. Mr Stevenson is an experienced marketing and business development specialist with a strong track record across media, telecoms and e-commerce. He has worked on projects for Toyota, Newsquest Media Group, Experian, Virgin Media forerunner NTL, The Daily Mail Group and wedding advice and retail business Confetti.
Movers and shakers
Sponsors get into top gear
A KIRKLEES-based firm and a leading Yorkshire sports star joined forces for a charity event at the biggest show in motor sport. Birstall-based Leyland Paints and 16-year-old Ginetta racing car champion Sarah Moore were involved the first-ever Charity Karting Challenge held at the Autosport International event at Birmingham’s NEC. The competition, which raised more than £59,000 for Malaria No More UK, was organised by former Fo r m u l a O n e d r i v e r D av i d B r ab h a m ’s Racing4Charity organisation and saw household names from Formula One, the British Touring Car Championship and World Rally Championship among the competitors. Leyland’s involvement in motorsport started last year with its sponsorship of leading BTCC team Motorbase Performance. Leyland brand manager Nicki Hickman said: “Last year, we undertook a wide variety of sponsored events to make money for Help for Heroes. Our commitment to motorsport and charity has certainly turned a few heads across the industry.”
Stephen Wright
Thorite A COMPANY boss with operations in Huddersfield has been elected to a senior post. Stephen Wright, managing director of pneumatic products supplier Thorite, has been appointed vice-president of Bradford Chamber of Commerce – having joined the organisation only last July. Thorite, based in Bradford, includes a branch at Barge Street, off St Thomas’ Road, Huddersfield. Mr Wright (pictured) has already represented the chamber in meetings with Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Chancellor of the Exchequer Alistair Darling. He will no support chamber president Harold Robinson in promoting the interests of member firms and the wider business community.
Gary Rowbotham
Techmesh A NEW business network to boost Yorkshire’s IT and telecoms sector has announced a major appointment. The techmesh network, run by Connect Yorkshire and supported by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward, has appointed Gary Rowbotham as programme manager. Mr Rowbotham (pictured) joins techmesh from Iphone Telecom and will be responsible for expanding its network of members and promoting Yorkshire and the Humber as the fastest-growing digital sector in the UK outside London. Mr Rowbotham is an experienced director in the digital sector, having managed companies in the UK and Spain. He has held senior roles at Vorsprung, Siemens and Iphone Telecom.
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■ DRIVING AMBITIONS: Nicki Hickman (left), of Leyland Paints, with Sarah Moore and ex-Formula One champion David Brabham at the 2010 Autosport International at the NEC in Birmingham
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