April, 2009
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Failing to benefit from going green NORTHERN firms are falling behind businesses in other UK regions of Britain when it comes to adopting environmental policies – and missing out on possible cost savings. That’s just one of the findings of recent research which looked at business organisations’ green policies and the ways in which they deal with the issue of waste office furniture. Each year, 500,000 tonnes of waste furniture is sent to landfill by organisations from across the UK – a figure that many experts fear will only worsen given the current economic conditions and the heightened risk of business failure. The research by business
movers Robinsons found that 15% of businesses in the north had disposed of up to 500 pieces of furniture in the past 12 months – 5% up on the national average and almost double that of any other region. Most of the discarded furniture went into skips or the local tip, meaning it all ended up in landfill. The research also found that businesses in the North were the least knowledgeable about their environmental obligations compared to their peers in the Midlands and the South. More than half had no CSR or environmental policy in place – 5% higher than the national average.
■ DEAL MAKERS: Propaganda joint managing director Laura Kynaston with Bang directors Chris Garratt (centre) and Matt Skelland
Bang on target A MARKETING agency in Huddersfield has been awarded contracts worth £250,000 by a leading creative agency. Bang, based at King’s Mill Lane, has secured work from Leeds-based Propaganda, which was founded in Huddersfield. The deal includes taking on £250,000 of work from Propaganda in the next 12 months. To support the move, several members of staff will move across from Propaganda to Bang and Propaganda And Laura Kynaston, joint managing director at Propaganda, will take
up a post of non-executive director on Bang’s board. A mentoring scheme will also be set up between senior members at Propaganda and staff at Bang to share experience, knowledge and insights into current clients. Propaganda, which has 50 employees, said the contract would allow the Leeds-based agency to focus on its strategic and creative work with major clients as it it develops a consultancy role. Bang will be responsible for implementing creative work ranging from brochures and packaging to advertising campaigns and websites.
Said Ms Kynaston: “Propaganda’s roots began in Huddersfield, so it is great to be forming a relationship with another local company and putting a significant amount of finance back into the business community.” Bang marketing director Chris Garratt said: “Our relationship with Propaganda – and the high expectations they have – clearly demonstrates the strength and quality of the work that we produce. “The announcement marks an important step in Bang’s growth strategy, which will see us build our profile in the regional agency scene.”
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2
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
COMMENT
by
Henryk Zientek there’s one topic guaranteed to IFprovoke the public, it’s car parking. From complaints about “over-zealous”
traffic wardens to anger over “exorbitant” charges for council-run car parks, the subject is rarely out of the headlines. Now, business leaders are fuming over suggestions that local authorities should be allowed to charge companies for the workplace parking spaces they provide their staff. The Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce is among business organisations lobbying the Government to scrap proposals for a Workplace Parking Levy, which is being suggested as a way to raise revenues to fund public transport. They rightly point out that now is not the time to be talking about adding extra costs to businesses already battling a deep and devastating recession. The chamber has called it “a tax to far” and expressed concern that anyone should be contemplating such a move when the “wealth-creating” sector needs all the help it can get to turn around the fortunes of individual firms and the economy. As a way to encourage more people onto buses and trains, the Workplace Parking Levy is all stick and no carrot. It will only reinforce the cynical view that councils view motorists as an easy target for raising funds. Given how much they hand over in road tax, fuel duty and other costs, surely they are already doing more than their share?
Read Henryk Zientek's Business reports Monday to Friday in ...
Inside Issues
● Pump company taken over – page 3 ● Principles goes Stateside – page 4 ● Call to step up road funding – page 6 ● Meritmill finds a partner – page 7 ● Milnsbidge costume drama – page 9 ● Birstall haulier at the hub – page 11 ● New owners at Concorde – page 13 ● Anger at parking levy plan – page 14 ● Fifty years for Allsops – page 16 ● Green success for supplier – page 19
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FINANCIAL REPORT
Society underlines solid performance
YORKSHIRE Building Society delivered another solid performance – and said it remained one of the UK’s strongest savings institutions in a year of unprecedented turmoil for financial markets. The society, which has its roots in Huddersfield and ioperates seve ra l b ra n c h e s i n K i rk l e e s, strengthened its funding and cash position during 2008 without recourse to taxpayer support. The Bradford-based society said its performance had not been immune to the global banking crisis, but said its underlying financial strength meant it was “very well-placed” to weather the current storm.
It had also protected savers by not passing on the full impact of the Bank of England base rate cuts – which over the course of a year will make its savers £50m better off than they would have otherwise been. During the year the Yorkshire completed its merger with Barnsley Building Society, increased member savings balances by £1.2bn and reduced its management expense ratio for the third year running. Operating profits totalled £53m, although pre-tax profit of £8.3m were affected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme charge of £14.7m for the
failures of Bradford & Bingley, Icelandic and London Scottish banks. Chief executive Iain Cornish said: “The Yorkshire reacted extremely early to a crisis which began in mid-2007 and intensified throughout 2008. Our capital and our funding position are amongst the very strongest in the UK financial sector. “At a time when competition for retail funds has been particularly aggressive, we have grown our retail member savings balances by £1.2bn, more than enough to fund all our mortgage growth in 2008 and without having to resort to unsustainable savings rates.”
Iain Cornish, chief executive, Yorkshire Building Society
Bankruptcy rates soar
■ WINNING LINE: Pictured at the West Yorkshire Young Accountant of the Year Awards are (from left) Joseph Hennigan, Chris Hirst, Elizabeth Holloway, Victoria Wilson, Lee Sweeney, Kristina Sohanpaul and George Herd
Awards night honours students to count on! TALENTED young accountants have been recognised at a regional awards night. Prizes were presented at the annual dinner of the Leeds Chartered Accountants Students’ Society at the Royal Armouries in Leeds. The evening also raised more than £2,250 for the Yorkshire Cancer Centre, based at the St James’s Institute of Oncology in Leeds. The award for Young Chartered Accountant of the Year 2009 went to Victoria Wilson, of Grant Thornton, who won a luxury weekend for two in Milan. Second place was awarded to Kristina Sohanpaul, from Ernst & Young, and third place to Elizabeth Holloway, of PwC. Tim Lincoln, audit partner at Grant Thornton, said: “Victoria is a fantastic person to have around the office and she
demonstrates great initiative and expertise beyond core audit work. This is also brilliant news for Grant Thornton, and shows our commitment firm-wide to the local market.” Lee Sweeney, egional driector for awards sponsor Sharp Consultancy, said: “The three judges really put the six finalists through their paces this year with questioning which reflected the economic realities all business now face. “It’s a credit to them all that they could soon drill down to the key issues showing that their clients are truly in safe hands” The Young Accountant of the Year award celebrates the achievements of young chartered accountants who are judged on professionalism, both in and out of the office, work competence and overall personality.
MORE people across Yorkshire are declaring bankruptcy as the recession deepens, latest figures have revealed. Huddersfield and Dewsbury were among the worst-hit in West Yorkshire, according to figures from the Ministry of Justice. A total of 64 people in Huddersfield petitioned for bankruptcy during the fourth quarter of 2008 – up by 50% on the same period in 2007. The figure for Dewsbury was 98 – more than double the tally for the final three months of 2007. Some 861 people petitioned for bankruptcy in West and North Yorkshire – 50% up on the previous period. The figures showed increases of 78% for Wakefield, 76% for Leeds, 49% for Bradford and 18% for Halifax. There was a 32% increase in the number of people making themselves bankrupt in England and Wales. There was also a 12% increase in the use of Individual Voluntary Arrangements – where an individual in financial distress reaches agreement with creditors to restructure their debts.
Whether you are looking at buying a new business or selling your existing one, there are plenty of things to think about including:
• Valuation range and structuring options • Financing arrangements • Tax-planning ideas For truly independent advice and guidance, backed by years of experience, please contact Am Hayer or David Butterworth Tel: 01484 423691 email: am.hayer@wheawills.co.uk www.wheawills.co.uk www.wheawill.co.uk
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3
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Back on the prizes trail! A PUBLIC relations agency founded by Gomersal woman Suzanne Johsn is celebrating with its first nationa industry award nomination of 2009. The multi-award winning team at Approach PR has been shortlisted for Best Small Consultancy in the Fresh PR Awards. It will compete against agencies from Manchester and Newcastle in the competition in Manchester. The nomination comes hot on the heels of clinching two Chartered Institute of Public Relations PRide awards in 2008. The Fresh PR awards were created to celebrate innovation and creativity within consultancies outside the M25. The national judges shortlisted Approach PR in a competitive two-stage decision process. Suzanne, who is managing director of the Bradford-based agency, said: “Being nominated for a national award so soon after the CIPR PRide awards is a real boost for the team who work incredibly hard to really make a difference to our diverse mix of clients. “It’s been a fantastic 12 months for us in a difficult trading climate with four recent new business wins, two regional PR awards under our belt and now a national PR nomination.” The five-strong team has recently secured new business contracts with Skipton-based Rendezvous Hotel; Leeds Brassiere No 3 York Place and Bradford’s own business brainchild, the Yorkshire Biz Awards. Alongside managing international brands such as Délifrance UK Ltd and national charitable campaigns such as National Eczema Week, Approach PR also led the national and regional media campaign for “Who Do We Think We Are Week” headed by Bradford’s Schools Linking Network. “In a time where many companies are cutting budgets and staff we are working with and being approached by clients who recognise they need to become more proactive to survive,” said Suzanne. “Our strategy of looking closer to home is clearly paying off and it feels really good to be working with businesses on our doorstep. “We’ve had a great start to the year and we’re truly delighted to have ongoing recognition for our campaigns and acknowledgement of the development of our business and team.”
Company news? Appointments? Contact Henryk Zientek at KBN on 01484 437766
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■ TEAM EFFORT: Suzanne Johns (front) and the Approach PR team are seeking their first awards success of 2009 – after a series of successes last year. Previous triumphs have included winning two Chartered Institute of Public Relations PRide awards for campaigns on behalf of their clients
Pump repair firm aims to progress under new owners AN engineering company in Huddersfield has new owners. TAPS Ltd, based at Fieldhouse Business Park, off Leeds Road, has been bought by AxFlow UK Ltd for an undisclosed sum. All 18 employe e s i n H u dd e r s f i e l d w i l l b e retained. TAPS Ltd, formed in 1994, provides a nationwide repair and sales service covering a wide range of pumps and mechanical seals. The takeover is seen as a major development for AxFlow as it provides the company with a substantial in-house pump maintenance engineering based for its north of England customers and potential clients. AxFlow managing director Tony Peters said: “This is the most important development that we
have undertaken in the UK. It establishes AxFlow as one of the leading pump and service suppliers in the country. “Bringing TAPS into AxFlow gives us the additional engineering resources that will allow us to expand our capabilities. “Under the stewardship of founder Tom Cooper, TAPS has built up a fine team of engineers and support staff, which will be a great asset to the AxFlow group of companies.” Mr Cooper said: “I started TAPS. over 13 years ago and I am very proud that we have achieved year-on-year growth throughout this period. “Now is the right time to join forces with a much larger organisation that can give us the support and
financial strength to develop a greater customer base and gain increased market share. Joining forces with AxFlow presents us with a fantastic opportunity.” Mr Cooper said integrating TAPS into the AxFlow UK operation gave AxFlow the capabilities to provide maintenance and service facilities for a far wider range of pumps than it has in the past. The company said “considerable” investment has been made in new equipment at the Huddersfield plant, including the installation of two new cranes capable of lifting 15 tonnes in tandem to enable larger pumps to be handled. Other investment has included testing facilities, a new shot blasting machine bay and a spray painting booth.
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4
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Unlocking hidden potential
TECH TALK
Roger Pearson
Unclouded judgement RE you thinking about Cloud ComA puting? Is it right for my business? Does it work?
Thinking about it is probably the right place to be just now as one of the major cloud computing vendors, Google, has suffered a significant failure with users unable to access email, calendars and contact information. For the average home user this is not going to spoil the day, but how would your business cope if your CRM, accounts or line of business application was unavailable? Even more worrying perhaps that this can happen to the likes of Google, who you would expect to have the ultimate in resilient failsafe systems. Cloud computing is, as the name perhaps suggests, a slightly hazy concept. A Cloud service is typically an application run on servers and infrastructure owned, located and operated by a service provider outside your organisation. Applications are typically delivered to you via an internet connection and usually paid for on an ongoing monthly/annual basis. The attraction, marketing and also the risk of Cloud Computing is in handing over responsibility for key business applications to a third party. Because your business depends on these applications, if you are considering taking the plunge then it is extremely important to do due diligence. While there may be benefits of moving to a hosted/cloud system, there is some suggestion that the cloud is inherently good and this is not always the case. As with many things, you are likely to get what you pay for. Security and availability are two of the key concerns. Alex Hamer, partner at City law firm Reynolds Porter Chamberlain points out that the use of cloud computing could lead to breaches of the Data Protection Act. The important point here is to be aware of your regulatory requirements and ensure that a potential provider provides an appropriately secure service to match. The Google problem above is an example of the availability issue and when your applications and data could be located in a data centre on the other side of the country (or the world) you need to know who to call in the event of a problem and how your data will be safeguarded. With Cloud Computing, the performance of your business also becomes acutely dependent on the speed and quality of the internet connection between your office and the data centre. With typical “non-cloud” usage this can appear not to be an issue as you are sending emails and web browsing on a regular basis, but in fact this usage is very different to the constant, rapid connection needed to run Cloud Computing. There are some benefits to Cloud Computing, but it is not all plain sailing and not necessarily a cheap option. Do your due diligence and particularly make sure you consider the ongoing costs. Roger Pearson is a project manager at P2 Technologies Ltd, Lockwood
■ TEX MESSAGE: Principle Group’s headquarters at Tandem Industrial Estate, Waterloo. The company has now launched a US-based operation
Principle aims higher in USA
A COMPANY in Huddersfield has opened offices in the USA – as part of efforts to help customers make a name for themselves across the States. Waterloo-based global branding business Principle Group has set up premises in Knoxsville, Tennessee, and launched Principle US Inc to help spearhead its ambitious growth plans across North and South America. Managing director Richard Butterfield said: “The US office will form the hub for all of our activity across the Americas. We have a successful track record in implementing branding projects across the US, including nationwide branding projects for a number of major clients.” Principle US Inc will have an initial workforce of 20. The US arm is headed by chief executive officer David Pitt, who has more than 15 years’ experience in the industry. The company is looking to capitalise on key relationships it has built up in the brand design
■ WINNER: Richard Butterfield, Principle Group managing director
industry with clients including Wolff Olins, 20 /20 Ltd and Futurebrand to secure major global and US-based brand implementation projects. Principle Group – winner of the category for creative business in the 2008 Examiner Business Awards – was established in the UK in 1987 and operates across 50 countries. It specialises in large-scale national and international brand-
ing projects for clients including Barclays, HSBC, Xerox and steel giant Arcelor Mittal. Said Mr Butterfield: “Within the US, we expect to generate a multi-million pound turnover this year and expect this to continue to rise as more and more Fortune 500 companies in the US start to realise that Principle Group Inc is their trusted brand implementation partner. “We realise the importance of brands and the impact poor branding can have on a company’s reputation and sales.” Principle Group’s work ranges from designing signs for factories and offices and producing high quality vinyl graphics for vehicle liveries to setting up exhibition stands and designing office interiors. The company, which has more than 100 employees, started out from a rented office in a former textile mill in Scissett. Its first contracts were to provide signs for commercial buildings.
KIRKLEES businesses can unlock hidden profits by takng steps to rdeuce their impact on the environment, it is claimed. Business advice group Envirowise, said the UK’s struggling retail sector alone could reap the rewards of significantly reducing the £360m worth of waste it produces each year. Now the group has launched a guide advising retailers and others on how to develop a cost-saving environmental strategy. Elin Crebbin, Envirowise regional manager for Yorkshire, said: “For a business to be truly competitive, it needs to improve its performance across all areas. “As environmental regulations are more rigidly enforced and competitive pressures increase, failure to make the most of resources and minimise waste could prove an expensive mistake for many companies. “The Environmental Strategic Review guide helps to demystify the process by providing simple, straightforward advice that will help businesses better understand where they are in termsof resource efficiency and enable them to take crucial steps towards making improvements.” The ESR guide is available at www. envirowise.gov.uk or by calling 0800 585794
Food industry group has appetite to promote best of Yorkshire fare A GROUP promoting Yorkshire’s food and drinks industry is expanding its operations team. The new team at the Regional Food Group for Yorkshire and Humber will help to develop customer service and support business growth. Services available include faster enquiry responses, bespoke focus groups and tasting panels as well as tailored information about networking events and promotions. RFG operations director Colin Rich said: “It’s a great testament to the business that we’ve needed to increase both our
personnel and the services we offer to meet the demand from an increased number of members – now over 350 – and our expanding client base for specialist services. “We’re pleased that our newly expanded team is now in place and that we can continue to deliver our clients’ objectives to the highest standard, ensuring that all our members and clients receive the best service possible.” The team operates from six departments – client and membership service, sales, consumer projects and corporate relations, technical services, skills and workforce
development, and trade development. It will continue to offer services including advice and support on food technology, market research, product and business development, training, supply chain development, innovation, design, distribution and export. RFG is also recruiting for two further positions of account manager and sales co-ordinator. RFG members and clients range from small independent producers to multinationals covering wholesale, retail, distribution, hospitality, specialist service and production.
5
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Counting on success
RISKY BUSINESS Mark Dalton
ACCOUNTANCY firm Wheawill & Sundworth has scored a string of successes in recent exams. Darren Eastham and Chris Marshall have moved further towards qualification as chartered certified accountants, while Andrew Hudson, Stephanie Bowker, Lauren Hirst, Anton Sydor and Will Halstead continued their progress in the accounting technician exams. David Butterworth, managing partner at the Huddersfield firm, said: “It is good to see a lot of hard work and effort paying off with some excellent results. “The extra knowledge and experience gained by the team will be of great benefit to the firm and its clients.”
Building site focus LTHOUGH over the past few years A the numbers of people killed or injured in the construction industry
has fallen steadily, there continue to be many accidents that are a result of ignoring legal responsibilities or cutting corners. Accordingly, the Health and Safety Executive has launched two campaigns that impact upon property developers and those involved in refurbishment. The first of these is to raise awareness among property developers in the SME bracket about their duties under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007. A dedicated website (www.hse.gov.uk/property) has been set up, with a tailored leaflet to follow, to give developers free advice on how to comply with their health and safety responsibilities. It is built around three key themes: employing a competent team; understanding the structural risks and hazards associated with a building; and planning a successful project. It would appear that many property developers are not aware of – or are ignoring – their legal duties under the CDM Regulations. These include not employing a competent structural engineer when making structural changes to buildings or being unaware of the presence of asbestos. Perhaps I should remind developers not to put lives at risk by cutting corners on health & safety due to the economic climate. Health and safety should be an integral part of any project and will assist – not hinder, as many will think – bringing it to completion on time and to budget. In the second campaign, sites across Britain where renovations and maintenance work are being undertaken are to be targeted as part of a renewed inspection drive by the HSE. The reason for this is that in 2007/08, the refurbishment sector accounted for only around 40% of the construction market but was responsible for over half of construction fatalities. Unsurprisingly, the HSE feel there is still much poor practice to be found and are using about 100 inspectors to visit about 1500 sites. The inspectors will be targeting three main themes: falls from height; asbestos; and clean, tidy and well managed sites. They will be carrying out full inspections, not simply a sampling exercise, and any poorly performing sites will be issued with improvement or prohibition notices as may be required. Similar inspections carried out by the HSE at this time last year resulted in work being stopped on nearly one in three sites, and a total of 395 enforcement notices served. Both of these highlight the need for good health & safety practices on all types of construction sites. A site that is accident and incident free is likely to complete on time and without additional outlay, whereas a site only has to have one serious accident to be closed down. This, in turn will lead to completion delays with the inevitable delay in income or payment. Mark Dalton is an associate director at Wilby Ltd, based in Halifax
Centre opens A NEW training centre for construction workers has opened in Huddersfield. Kirklees Mayor Clr Karam Hussain performed the official opening of the training and assessment centre at the Chestnut Centre, Deighton. The new facility has been set up by Fresh Horizons Ltd, a social enterprise which ams to increase the number of building workers gaining qualifications help local building firms become more competitive. Fresh Horizons will work with building companies to qualify all their employees – enabling them to claim “Fully Qualified Workforce” status and giving them an edge when bidding for work, particularly from the public sector.
■ FLOOR SHOW: Heckmondwike FB has supplied this new high-performance carpet for the IT department at King James School, Almondbury
Carpet firm’s new image for historic school
A SCHOOL celebrating its 400th anniversary has chosen to keep right up to date when it comes to carpets. King James’s School in Almondbury turned to Liversedge carpet firm Heckmondwike FB to provide carpeting for its new IT suite. The school selected the firm’s Momentum range, which is available in 12 colours and features a striking criss-cross design. The carpet is hard-wearing and suitable for heavy traffic as well as having anti-static properties making it suitable for computer rooms. The British-made heavy contract broadloom carpet also has dust-trapping properties. Other benefits include a two-layer structure which helps reduce noise from heavy footfall, making the range ideal solution for installation in schools, colleges, universities, offices and libraries. Doug Norris, area manager for Heckmondwike FB, said: “We are delighted that the school selected our Momentum carpet as we know it will provide them with years of trouble-free use. It also looks superb and helps make the IT suite a real credit to the school.” Heckmondwike FB is the leading spe-
cialist manufacturer of heavy contract fibre bonded carpets and carpet tiles. The range includes fibre bonded and tufted carpet as well as specialist barrier and entrance area products. Alison Douglas, school business manager, said: “Since we received the Royal Charter from James 1 in 1608, we have p r i d e d o u r s e l ve s o n q u a l i t y i n everything we do. This is one of the reasons why we chose Momentum from Heckmondwike FB. It offers style, durability and the anti-static dust-trapping and acoustic properties are essential for our IT suite.” Heckmondwike FB, which has been making carpets in the UK for more than 40 years, is one of the leading carpet suppliers to the education and public sector. The company has in-house research and development facilities, which includes providing technical support to customers and a first rate after-sales service. The firm has achieved the ISO14001 environmental standard and its production processes meet ISO 9001 accreditation.
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6
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
■ ON THE UP: Alison France (front) and colelagues at Sanderson Associates, Grange Moor
‘Spend cash on the roads’ A LEADING Huddersfield-based business has called for “sensible” Government spending to help lift Britain out of recession. Sanderson Associates, one of the UK’s top consulting engineers, said public spending on “much-needed infrastructure schemes” and on schools, councils and the NHS would create jobs and improve efficiency. Alison France, managing director of the Grange Moor-based company, said: “There has been a good deal of criticism of Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s decision to spend his way out of the recession and there is clearly a danger in Britain getting deeper into debt. “But if the money is spent wisely on improving this country’s road network and infrastructure, for example, then that would have enormous benefits.” Sanderson Associates is recruiting 11 extra staff to add to its 46-strong workforce in response to increased demand for its expertise in highways, traffic, transportation and water matters. Said Alison: “It has been a bit quieter recently, but we are beginning to see plans coming through from some major construction companies. “The signs are that it is starting to move again, which is very positive.” She said: “We have very recently been instructed on completely new possible housing sites – so that area does seem to be on a recovery. “We also have clients that are cash-rich, not having to borrow and they are purchasing new sites for development. “Then we have been instructed to consider access to these new sites for development – again a positive step forward.” Ms France said smaller developers were also beginning to return with new small housing developments. She said: “All in all, things are moving forward positively and I expect an upturn this spring, especially if the banks feel able to lend more freely.” Sanderson Associates provides a reliable barometer of the state of the economy. At a time of high consumer spending, developments such as fitness centres and office developments featured heavily on the books. Today, with money tight, discount retailers are a feature on the workloads. The firm’s work includes advising on the traffic aspects of developments ranging from major roads and motorway junctions, shopping centres and industrial estates to access issues. It also provides services, including traffic assessments and surveys, giving expert evidence in court cases and at public inquiries and advising on issues such as street lighting and speed limits.
TAX TALK Colin Barratt
Tax-saving suggestions S we approach another tax year-end, A there are various ways to save tax, both now and for the future, which may
be of benefit to both individuals and businesses. Ideas include: ● Reviewing the assets of each spouse to see if transfers can be made from one to the other to ensure personal allowances are not wasted and basic rate tax bands are utilised as far as possible. Assets transferred between spouses are done so on a no gain/no loss basis which may also reduce a couple’s overall tax bill on their sale as both will be then be entitled to a Capital Gains Tax exemption of £9,600 for 2008/09. Unused allowances and rate bands cannot be carried to a subsequent year. Due consideration should always be given to any commercial or other risks in identifying such transactions particularly with business assets qualifying for Entrepreneurs’ Relief which could be jeopardised. ● If you have the means to do so, use up your Inheritance Tax gift allowance of £3,000; this allowance can be carried forward for one year, so if you did not use it in 2007/08, you could gift £6,000 before April 6, 2009. ● Switch savings into an ISA to build up a tax-free fund; the maximum investment is £7,200 of which £3,600 can be held as cash on deposit. ● Top up your pension fund with an additional contribution to mitigate higher rate tax liabilities; if you are employed, your employer might offer a salary sacrifice option to boost your pension savings. The salary sacrifice will need to be correctly structured to avoid “attack” by the Revenue. ● Think about making contributions to Stakeholder Pensions for non-earning spouses and minors. The annual allowance is £3,600 but with basic rate tax relief given on such contributions the amount actually paid would be £2,880. ● Check that you have paid enough NI contributions for state pension and benefit purposes and where appropriate consider paying additional voluntary contributions to protect pension and benefit entitlements. Organise or review your Will to ensure that your affairs are structured in the best way for your family. Such action may help mitigate potential inheritance tax liabilities. ● Consider making payments into Child Trust Funds for younger generations to build up tax-free funds. The annual tax free investment allowance for children born on or after September 1, 2002, is £1,200 with family members’ and friends’ contributions qualifying towards this allowance. ● In the 2008 Pre Budget statement, it was announced that temporary enhanced tax relief for trading losses will be available for businesses which can generate cash refunds and a change of financial year-end to March 31/April 5 might help accelerate this benefit. Reducing the next tax payment due on July 31, 2009, may be possible and is worth reviewing. Careful timing of capital expenditure and disposals can maximize benefits under the new Annual Investment Allowance under which the first £50,000 of expenditure can be wholly written off against profits. Colin Barratt is tax partner at Wheawill and Sudworth, chartered accountants, Huddersfield
7
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Chamber support package for stores
CITY TALK Simon Kaye
Economic deep freeze HE unaccustomed arrival of tradiT tional winter weather in the UK in early February coincided with further
evidence of a deep freeze in the economy. In both cases, the authorities appeared powerless to cope with the immediate crisis. Unfortunately, the processes of rebuilding savings in the UK, together with repairing the damage caused to the banking sector by past mistakes will take longer than the arrival of spring. A rapid increase in savings to historically more normal levels is undesirable because it would deepen the recession. So, the authorities worldwide are trying to smooth the process, by reducing interest rates and cutting taxes, to encourage consumers to keep spending. However, the problems of the banking sector continue to unfold like a cross between the dance of the seven veils and a slow motion car crash and it is hard for the authorities to calibrate their response until the problems holding back the banks are fully in the open. There has been controversy over government money being used to “bail out” the banks. Although there will be further inquests over who was responsible for the worst mistakes, policy makers now have to concentrate on countering the economic fall-out. The economy cannot revive unless companies can fund their normal operations and obtain finance for new investment, through a functioning bank sector. So far, increased injections of capital by the government and greater liquidity provided by the Bank of England have lagged the sector’s problems and failed to alleviate the credit squeeze. At present, the UK economy is trying to cope with a simultaneous outbreak of precautionary saving and a cut back in bank lending. The result has been a major disruption in economic output, as sales fall short and companies lack funding for working capital. Lower interest rates should eventually encourage spending and will help direct savers’ funds towards companies (whose bonds and equities offer greater yields, albeit at greater risk). March has seen a further cut in base rate, taking rates to yet another 300 year low of ½%. Having taken rates as low as they can go, the Bank of England is set to embark on unconventional means of boosting the money supply, having announced a plan to buy up to £75bn of corporate bonds and gilts in coming months. This is intended to offset the increased “stickiness” of money in the economy, as owners of cash hoard it rather than spending or lending. Although such a policy of “printing money” to buy bonds could have inflationary consequences if implemented in an economy where money was circulating rapidly, in the near term these risks seem low because the fractured credit system is rendering the economy moribund. As 2009 unfolds, the positive effects of official policy moves and falling fuel inflation should count for more and help engender a recovery in 2010. Although it is proving hard to nurture optimism in the face of near-term bad news, the best opportunities seem likely to appear amongst the fallen assets whereas the safe havens may prove to offer expensive insurance beyond the immediate uncertainties. Simon Kaye is Divisional Director at Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management
■ WORKING TOGETHER: Shafiq Rehman (left), former managing director of Multishades, with Steve Hubbard, of Meritmill, Batley
Talented textile firms teaming up TWO textile firms have joined forces to create a market leader in the manufacture of sampling presentations for the carpet and flooring industry. Creative Sampling Solutions has been formed from the merger of Baildon-based Multishades Ltd and Meritmill (UK) Ltd, which has head offices in Batley and facilities in Poznan, Poland. The two firms have a combined 77 years of experience within the industry. The new company will continue to operate from existing bases and hopes to create at least 20 jobs in the UK this year as well as safeguarding its existing workforce of almost 200. Shafiq Rehman, joint managing director with CSS, said: “This merger will increase our flexibility in meeting customer requirements as we com-
bine our two working practices. “By aggregating under one name we are able to offer improved levels of service and value for money. “CSS is now the largest manufacturer of sampling presentations in the UK and we are also hoping to build on our existing share of international markets,.” Joint managing director Stephen Hubbard said: “Both firms bring a lot of industry experience to the table and by pooling our collective resources we will be in a much better position to increase our market share. “The staff at both firms have been enthusiastic and excited about the merger which will help to secure jobs and generate new recruitment opportunities.”
Co-op strengthened by Somerfield acquisition CO-OPERATIVE Group has completes its £1.5bn takeover of the Somerfield supermarket chain. The Co-op, which has scores of food stores in the Kirklees area, said the deal propelled the UK’s largest mutual retailer into the “premiership” of food retailers – creating the fifth strongest player iwith an 8% market share and 3,000 stores generating annual sales exceeding £7bn. Somerfield has stores at Milnsbridge and Elland. Chief executive Peter Marks said: “This is great news for customers of both The Co-operative and Somerfield. It is a transformational deal which cements our position as the UK’s number one community retailer and returns us to the premiership of food retailers.” He said: “Our first priority is to start integrating the two businesses – something that will bring real scale benefits, enabling us to provide better value to our customers.
“There is a strong strategic fit between these businesses and we are looking forward to creating a single business combining the inherent strengths of both Somerfield and the Co-operative Group. “Somerfield has some great people and we are delighted to welcome them to the Co-operative family.” Somerfield chief executive Paul Mason said: “The Co-operative Group is buying a business that is in rude health with strong, positive like-for-like sales, and a profit margin that has doubled since the business was taken private in 2005.” Shopworkers' union Usdaw welcomed the completion of the aquisition. Generl secretary John Hannett said: “As the recognised union for both Somerfield and the Co-op, we are very pleased that this deal has now been finalised. “The acquisition will put the Co-operative Group in an even stronger position as a leading retailer, which is good news for our members.”
A PACKAGE of measures to help Kirklees’ hard-pressed retailers has been drawn up by business chiefs. The Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce said it was providing support to help local traders hit by the spending slump. It follows the collapse of high-profile retailers such as Woolworths, Adams and Zavvi and fears for the long-term future of many smaller stores in the Kirklees, Calderdale and Wakefield areas. It also comes amid concerns that banks are still reluctant to lend money to businesses. Chamber president Margaret Wood said: “Retailers play a vital role in supporting the local economy by providing valuable goods and services and creating jobs for local people. “They have been hard hit by the down turn and we want to help them recover quickly.” Local retailers who join the chamber will benefit from the support, which includes a free training programme to improve the skills of staff; free legal advice on all business matters and a free debt recovery service to help traders get paid more quickly. The training support offered is the NVQ level 2 in Retail Services. The free legal advice is telephone-based and covers all areas of commercial law while the free debt recovery service is provided by Huddersfield law firm Eaton Smith. Contact the chamber’s Wakefield office on 01924 311594.
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8
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Training call for food firms
FOOD and drink companies in Yorkshire can ride out the recession in better shape – if they take advantage of billions of pounds being pumped into apprenticeship schemes. Jack Matthews, chief executive of York-based food and drink sector skills council Improve, said the Government’s commitment to subsidising apprenticeships was a “great tonic in tough times” for firms seeking affordable ways to add value to their business. Mr Matthews said the food and drink industry was in a unique position to take advantage because demand for food would remain stable whatever the economic outlook. “There will always be jobs in food and drink because there will always be a demand there,” said Mr Matthews. “But companies that want to survive or indeed thrive in the recession will have to respond to changes in demand. We are already seeing consumers shop around to find better value, which puts producers under pressure to lower costs while maintaining quality. “In response, companies need to
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improve productivity and efficiency, which requires a higher skilled, more able workforce. Training staff to have the right skills therefore becomes more important than ever.” Mr Matthews acknowledged that the food and drink industry would not be immune from job losses during the recession, but pointed to research which suggests that demand for higher-skilled workers will rise. A survey by the Institute of Employment Research suggested that Yorkshire’s food and drink industry will need to recruit 17,000 workers by 2017 to cover retirement and other forms of natural wastage – with a significant rise in the number of management, professional and skilled technical roles. “There are already shortages of higher-skilled workers in the industry,” said Mr Matthews. “Around 6% of food and drink companies in Yorkshire currently struggle to fill management and technical positions – and clearly we expect the demand for people with these kinds of skills to rise. “Training people to rise through the
ranks is much more cost-effective than recruiting higher-skilled people externally. “The major advantage apprenticeships have is that they are almost entirely work-based, affording employers the flexibility and control to train their staff in the skills they really need for their business. “While the company gains a valuable staff member with the talent to make a difference to the business, the apprentice gains the confidence, ambition and sense of value which goes hand-in-hand with earning a recognised qualification, inspiring loyalty and the drive to take their career further.” All training costs for Apprenticeships are fully-funded by the Government for apprentices up to the age of 18, with varying levels of subsidy available for older workers. The Government has pledged to subsidise apprentice wages for companies with under 50 employees, while larger companies can now access a £10m “bonus” pot to train more apprentices than they need for their own business.
■ ADVANTAGE: Jack Matthews, chief executive of food and drink sector skills council Improve
Celebrations begin for Central Lodge ENTREPRENEURS Joe and Johnny Marsden are celebrating 10 years of success at their town centre hotel, The Central Lodge. And they count themselves lucky to have anticipated the trend for low-cost, no-fuss good quality accommodation which has seen them play host to celebrity guests Dame Thora Hird and comedian Russ Abbott as well as businessmen, tourists and shopfitting teams. The brothers opened The Central Lodge in February, 1999, as an “overflow” for their popular Huddersfield Hotel at Beastmarket. They converted the property, which had previously housed a takeaway and a taxi office, to provide 12 bedrooms. In 2003, when they sold the Huddersfield Hotel and other business interests, including Johnny’s nightclub, The Palace Bar and the Boy and Barrel, they retained The Central Lodge together with a car park for 50 cars. The following year, they ripped out the ground floor rooms to create a reception area, lounge, bar, laundry and kitchen – before acquiring neighbouring premises fronting Southgate to create additional bedrooms and bring the total to 21. Joe Marsden, 55, said the decision to focus on The Central Lodge proved a good one. “We have found that even before the recession, people were looking for lodge-style accommodation,” he said. “Bigger hotels were pricing themselves out of the market, but nor did people want the traditional B&B with tea served in china cups. “We didn’t go looking for this market, it found us. I wish we could say we saw it coming before everyone else, but it was just good fortune.” The Central Lodge has four full-time and eight part-time staff, including three night porters who work in shifts to ensure the hotel’s status for 24-hour reception service. Joe and his brother Johnny, 64, continue to keep an eye on things. “I come in two or three times a week to do the invoicing and pay roll,”
■ LODGE MEETING: Manager Liz Wood and co-owner Joe Marsden celebrate 10 years of the Central Lodge at Beast Market, Huddersfield
evening and talk to the guests as they check in.” Guests include business people visiting local companies and plumbers, electricians and shopfitters working on retail developments. Joe takes the opportunity to give them an insight into the town and its famous names. “”Huddersfield has been good to us and we like to think we have put a lot back,” he said. “It is a refreshing change to talk to people from all over the UK and Europe who come to our town knowing nothing about it. “I tell them about James Mason, Harold Wilson and David Brown and they are amazed by it all.”
Appointment CHRISTOPHER Rooney has been promoted director in the recovery services team at Pricewaterhouse Coopers in Leeds. Mr Rooney joined PwC almost three years and is a specialist in business recovery services. He began his career with Andersen 11 years ago and has worked with businesses and their funders and shareholders across a wide range of sectors.
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Suzanne provides awards message BUSINESS owner Suzanne Johns, who hails from Gomersal, is helping to support small and medium-sized businesses through the Yorkshire Biz Awards. Her Bradford-based company Approach PR is heading the media campaign to attract entrepreneurs from across Yorkshire to enter the awards, which reward those who have triumphed over adversity in making their business idea a success. The Approach team is also contributing to the sponsorship of the event, which takes place on June 26 at the Royal Armouries in Leeds. The Yorkshire Biz Awards, now in their third year, are supported by Yorkshire Forward and the region’s business support agencies. Alongside Approach PR, the 2009 sponsors include Yorkshire Forward, Business Link, Keyfund Yorkshire, Bradford Kickstart and Sharing the Success. Biz Awards organiser Alison Metcalf, of the Bradford Chamber, said: “These awards highlight those who have triumphed against ■ HELPING HAND: Suzanne Johns, of Approach PR is leading rhe media campaign to encourage entries for the Yorkshire Boz Awards
all odds – from being turned down by every high street bank to those who didn’t have the right skills in an industry yet have become leaders within it. “The Biz Awards create a sense of achievement for those who never thought they would make it.” The awards are free to enter and all winners receive a cash prize. Categories include Best New Start, Fastest-growing Business, Enterprise Through Innovation, Contribution to the Community and Business of the Year. Said Suzanne: “This year, the Biz Awards are focusing on encouraging companies to stand up against the doom and gloom and showcase their success in the face of adversity. “Despite the climate, the organisers are so confident in the entrepreneurial flair within Yorkshire that they’re aiming for their highest number of entrants yet.” She added: “Raising awareness is key to the success of the campaign, so we’re working hard at spreading the word to entrepreneurs from Cleckheaton to Doncaster. “We’re delighted to be associated with the Biz Awards because we relate to every single entrant having been through the setting up and running of a business ourselves. “By helping to sponsor the event this year, we hope to be an inspiration to others who are starting out on the road to independence and to show that with the right mindset, business formula and energy, your dreams can be realised.” Visit www.thebizawards.co.uk or call Alison Metcalf on 01274 230050.
James triumphs JAMES Briggs, 20 has qualified as the youngest chartered accountant in West Yorkshire after undertaking nearly three years of demanding training and passing the tough accountancy exams with flying colours. Mr Briggs (left) works with accountancy firm Clough & Company in Keghley. The firm also has offices at Cleckheaton. He has also been nominatied for the prestigious Sharp Consultancy Young Accountant of the Year 2009 Award. Mr Briggs joined Clough & Company nearly three years ago as a trainee accountant after studying A-Levels at Bradford Grammar School. As part of his new role as a chartered accountant he will work across a variety of areas including corporate finance, auditing and corporate and indirect taxes. Steven Gash, managing partner of Clough & Co, said: “We’re delighted with James’ progress. James has a very bright future ahead of him and we’re looking forward to seeing him put his new skills and knowledge to good use and further progress in his career with Clough and Company.”
Costume firm to the rescue! A COSTUME hire firm in Huddersfield has completed one of its biggest orders yet – to kit out the cast of the outrageous Mel Brooks musical, The Producers. Staff at B Authentic were asked to supply dozens of wartime German uniforms for an amateur production of the award-winning comedy, in which a scheming theatrical producer and his accountant try to make money by staging a sure-fire flop. Milnsbridge-based B Authentic was asked to help by members of Halifax Amateur Operatic Society, who are set to stage The Producers from April 1 to 4 at the Victoria Theatre, Halifax. Karen Hever, of B Authentic, said: “We have a massive selection of original wartime uniforms. Members of the cast have been along for fittings and we will be assembling all of the outfits and accessories during the course of next week for delivery before trhe curtian goes up.” She said: “We were asked for 50 uniforms – and we have them all in stock. It is one of the biggest orders we have ever received, although we get quite a few requests for hiring historical costumes from theatre groups.” B Authentic said wartime uniforms and fashions were popular with many customers. “We get people attending 1940s parties or re-enactments, “ said Karen. B Authentic regularly turn people into US army officers, ARP warden or RAF fighter pilots – while omen can get the Pearl Harbour look by transforming themselves into US servicewomen or go for stylish civvies with gowns, hats and sable jackets. B Authentic lcan ay claim to being the North’s biggest “dressing up box”, boasting more than 10,000 outfits spanning every period of history from the Middle Ages to the Swinging Sixties. The costumes are also in demand from TV production companies, schools and museums.
9 THE Scrivens Group is expanding in West Yorkshire with the takeover of Leeds Co-operative Society’s opticians division. Scrivens, which has 134 branches, is taking over the Co-op’s three stores at Beeston, Headingley and Hunslet.
10
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
ON THE MOVE
Senior post for banker Gregory Flynn has been appointed senior manager with Lloyds TSB Commercial. Mr Flynn (pictured) will be based at the Kirklees Business Centre in Huddersfield as part of an 11-strong team supporting companies ranging from start-ups to established and growing firms. Huddersfield-born Mr Flynn, who is a Town season ticket h o l d e r, j o i n s t h e Kirklees office from Leeds Business Centre and has 30 years of experience working with Lloyds TSB customers. Martin Humberstone, area director in West Yorkshire, said: “Greg has considerable experience with companies across a
number of sectors and we’re happy to welcome him to our growing team. “This appointment demonstrates our commitment to supporting local firms through the current economic difficulties by building a strong team which takes a long-term, relationship-led approach to banking.”
Sterling effort NICK Sterling has been promoted to managing director of the property services division at construction and civil engineering group Osborne. Mr Sterling (right), who lives at Clayton West, was formerly divisional director responsible for operations. He joined Osbourne in February, 2008, after a career in the affordable housing sector.
Osborne’s property services division p rov i d e s r e p a i r s, planned maintenance and other works in the affordable housing sector, including more than 50,000 homes in the south-east.
Vince takes up technical post
PROPERTY compliance specialist BES Consulting has appointed Vince Dooher as chief technical officer. Mr Dooher joins the Moldgreen-based firm from a leading IT consultancy, where he was head of information systems. He has worked with clients including Balfour Beatty, BT, Barclays, HBOS and Microsoft. A c e r t i f i e d Microsoft developer and a computing and information systems graduate, Mr Dooher has more than 10 years experience of leading
IT teams. This includes work for the British Library where he designed the UK’s largest data storage project. BES Consulting has announced a £1m investment in building the largest field-based team of surveyors qualified to help commercial property managers to reduce their energy costs and receive Energy Performance Certificates. BES Consulting is creating at least 30 new jobs to help meet soaring demand, which has included deals with Marston’s and Punch Taverns.
New directors for Sanderson C O N S U LT I N G e n g i n e e r Sanderson Associates has promoted Bob Greenwood, Peter Maurice and Jason McKellar to associate director. The three men will take on the responsibility of management of operations for traffic and transportation, detailed design, flood risk and training respectively. Mr Greenwood joined Grange Moor-based Sanderson Associates in 2006 as a principal engineer and team leader . He has more than 30 years experience in the transportation planning department of several local councils. Since joining Sanderson Associates, he has led his own team of engineers and technicians in the traffic and transportation sector of the business. Mr Greenwood was promoted to the new post of principal engineer to the managing director in January. Mr Maurice joined the company in 2002 as a highway design engineer. He previously worked for Barnsley Council for 10 years. He was promoted to the role of principal engineer and team leader in 2004. He manages his own team of five engineers and technicians concentrating on detailed design, highway construction and specifications for various types of developments. Mr McKellar joined Sanderson Associates in 2000 as an engineer. He had nine years experience in the detailed design
■ DIRECT LINE: Sanderson Associates, based at Grange Moor, has appointed (from left) Jason McKellar, Peter Maurice and Bob Greenwood as associate directors
section of an independent consultancy. He was promoted to principal engineer and team leader in 2004. He established a flood risk department within Sanderson Associates in 2007 and now manages his own team of four engineers and technicians concentrating on flood risk, detailed design, highway construction and specifications for various types of developments. Managing director Alison France said: “Jason, Peter, and
Bob have always shown real commitment and passion for the construction projects that they have led and worked on and I have no doubt will continue to do so within their new roles. “I am sure that they will all enjoy the opportunity to build on this successful portfolio of work that Sanderson Associates have undertaken over the years, maintaining and enhancing our reputation for delivering successful projects, within agreed time scales, for all of our valued clients.”
New director joins regional food group THE Regional Food Group for Yorkshire and Humber has appointed John Hendy as interim commercial director, covering for Elizabeth Halsall, who is on maternity leave. Mr Hendy (right) will be responsible for providing commercial support for RFG’s food and drink industry members in the region, and directing RFG’s Deliciouslyorkshire consumer brand. Previously, Mr Hendy led business development for the William Jackson Food Group in Hull and spent five years as business development director for Aunt Bessie’s, during which time the brand grew from £70m to £170m. In addition, he was responsible for leading the marketing and sales teams and helping Aunt Bessie’s become a Top 50 UK grocery brand.
P R O P E R T Y c o nsultancy Knight Frank has appointed Tearle Phelan, 30, to head its residential land development team in Yorkshire. Mr Tearle (above), who will be based in Leeds, joined the Sheffield office in 2000 and worked in the office agency department before specialising in residential land development in 2004. He became a partner in 2007. He said: “It goes without saying that we live in challenging times and that we face a very testing property market. “Ultimately, the market is cyclical and the good times will return. In the meantime, we must all work harder than ever to secure affordable deals which match vendors’ expectations.” Mr Tearle said: “The dramatic fall in the price of land does present opportunities and I am currently talking to a number of landowners and developers who are keen to do deals. “I think a couple of strong Yorkshire deals will restore confidence in the market and confidence is a vital commodity at the moment.”
Associate joins law practice
Property analyst
PROPERTY group Allsops has appointed Beth Hill to the new post of property analyst and researcher. Ms Hill (left), who gained a first class degree in geography at Leeds University, will specialise in the residential property sector providing analysis for both fund valuations and reversionary residential interests. Allsops handles more than £6bn
Taking charge of the team
worth of residential property valuations every year. The firm’s Leeds office provides specialist advice on residential property holdings to a range of clients, including major institutional investors, high net worth individuals, housing associations, property companies, house builders and developers.
LAW firm Lee & Priestley has appointed Ian Hemingway as an associate. Mr Hemingway joins the Leeds-based firm with substantial experience running high value commercial cases. He also has par ticular expertise in defamation law. His appointment follows Lee & Priestley’s appointment of intellectual property litigator Fe l i c i t y H a r r i s o n . To g e t h e r, t h e n e wc o m e rs h ave b e e n handed the task of developing a first class defamation team.
11
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Denby Dale firm in the picture A COMPANY designing and manufacturing visual presentation systems is in the picture as winner of a monthly business award. The Visual System and Sign Company, which has been in business in Huddersfield since 1981, was named winner of the Eaton Smith Business of the Month Awrad, which run by the law firm in association with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. In 2003 however, following a successful management buy-out, managing director Chris Hunter decided on a n ew dire c t ion for th e D en by Dale-based firm – focusing more on the UK healthcare market, including the large NHS Trusts. Since the takeover and new direction, the business has grown by 17% and established itself as one of the market leaders in the UK for the supply of visual display products for the nursing environment. Mr Hunter said the firm was looking to develop the business fur ther through diversification into other private sector niche markets and also by exporting the company’s products into Europe. He said: “It’s a great honour to receive the award and to gain recognition for all the hard work and effort we’ve put in. Winning Business of the Month gives us excellent promotion and just goes to prove that manufacturing in Yorkshire is still going strong.”
Jill Hague
Practical assistance today’s economic environment, there IonNarehow many practical tips that we can take best to survive and succeed in
■ WINNERS: Deborah Melluish (third right). of Eaton Smith, presents the award to Helen Hunter and Chris Hunter (centre), of Visual Systems and Signs, with (from left) Andrew Kemp, of Business Link Yorkshire; Andrew Choi, of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce; Kevin Winterburn, of Sheards; and Wayne Goodman, of Platinum Money Ltd The award is open to companies of all sizes in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield.
Vi s i t t h e we b s i t e w w w. e a t o nsmith.co.uk or contact Ian Greenwood on 01484 821389.
It’s a hub of activity A HAULAGE company is benefiting from a new state-of-the-art distribution centre – following a £30m investment by palletised transport network Palletforce. As a member of one of the UK’s biggest palletised transport delivery networks, Birstall-based Bedfords Transport will have full use of the ‘Palletforce Hub’, the largest of its kind in the UK. The news is a significant step forward for Bedfords Transport, which will be able to offer faster delivery turnaround. Philip Lockwood, depot principal at Bedfords Transport, said: “This is an important part of our growth and will enhance the services we can offer as we drive our business forward in 2009. “The new Hub will act as a nerve centre for the overnight delivery of palletised goods and bring huge benefits to members who need to transport goods
quickly and efficiently across the UK and Europe.” Being a member of Palletforce means Bedfords Transport works with other transport companies to reduce the distance travelled by haulage fleets and empty running – proving efficient, cost effective and environmentally responsible. The 380,000sq ft distribution Hub in Staffordshire is so big that it could house eight football pitches or 1,736 double deck buses end-to-end. It can handle up to 600 trunks a night and uses the latest technologies to deliver a wide range of goods that are used in our every day lives. Michael Conroy, Chief executive officer of Palletforce, said: “Palletforce has enjoyed years of constant growth and this fantastic new Hub will ensure that we are well positioned to provide a competitive and quality service as the
country faces challenging times ahead. “In 2009, many companies are looking at ways to drive efficiency and keep costs as low as possible – and therefore our system of palletised distribution becomes a very attractive way to transport goods around the country. “Hub-driven network distribution provides fast, high-density movement of palletised freight, which is both environmentally responsible and cost effective. “The new Hub will give our customers the very best express freight delivery services out there – in terms of quality, flexibility, cost and efficiency – all of which will be crucial to them in 2009.” Bedfords Transport and about 100 other transport operators across the UK make up the powerful Palletforce distribution network. Together they serve thousands of customers – which include major brands and well-known high street retailers.
Supplier in the fast lane BRIGHOUSE-based automotive fuels specialist Millers Oils is revving up for a new season. The company is to supply advanced motorsport products and provide technical support to the Arena International Motorsport team as it master minds the long-awaited return of the Ford marque to the British Touring Car Championship. Millers Oils will also provide its new Nano Technology range of gear and transmission oils for the team’s two Ford Focus ST entrants.
BANKER'S BLOG
Arena has a long and proven track record in BTCC. The team has been using Honda Civics in the championship until 2005 and recorded some high profile wins. Following a short absence from the competition, it has re-entered the fray by bringing Ford back to touring cars for the first time since the late 1990s. Its drivers include 23-year-old Tom Chilton, who is entering his eighth BTCC season. Millers Oils will form a technical partnership with Arena, working closely with the
team and the Ford Focus STs throughout the season. Arena will be one of the first racing teams to use Millers Oils highly innovative Nano Technology range of transmission oils, which employs nano-particle oil technology, while the team is also trialling new grades of Millers Oils’ established CFS Motorsport range during qualifying. Dave Mott, product manager at Millers Oils, said: “We are thrilled by the partnership with Arena – and that our high quality products have impressed during testing.”
these uncertain times. HSBC has produced a video which is accessible from our web site called “Challenging Times” and I have picked out some extracts from it which I thought you may find useful. The video covers managing cash flow, cutting costs, sales and marketing, building relationships and seeking opportunities. Managing cash is vital and your cash resource needs to be managed daily. It is important that you keep paying supplies and that you have contingency plans in place if there are any delays in payment. Keep invoicing at the right time and then follow up through statements, e-mails and phone calls to ensure that you are paid. Avoid the temptation to extend credit to customers unless you can afford it. I would say it, but ensure you keep speaking to your bank and try and avoid unauthorised overdrafts – they are more expensive. Our chief economists, Dennis Turner, has some useful messages. He talks about separating out the economic situation from the credit crunch – the needs for all business to adapt, respond and be flexible. Remember that your expenditure is somebody else’s income. In the current climate you need to search out new markets, customers and products. The temptation may be to reduce your marketing spend, but you need to keep yourself in pole position. Be proactive and focus on your existing customer base, cross sell and up sell. Consider online marketing and work with partners to collaborate, which can reduce costs. It is essential that you focus on service, remain positive and continue being proactive. How do you ensure that you have good housekeeping? Look at where your money is spent. Are your cash flow systems robust and do they allow you to foresee any problems? Shop around for all cost items, stationery, insurance, fuel etc. You need to prioritise cash above profit – cash is the lifeblood of the business. I would also recommend that you access the chamber of commerce and Business Link websites as they can provide you with many other sources of help that are free. For more information and some great customer ideas go to hsbc.co.uk/business Jill Hague is Head of Commercial Banking for HSBC in Huddersfield
Opportunity knocks ASIAN business people in Kirklees have been urged to enter a national award. The seventh annual Lloyds TSB Jewel Awards aim to recognise the impact British Asians are making in the world of trade and industry. The first of three regional awards will be held in April in Manchester when the winners of seven categories will be announced. They include ones covering retail, food and franchise; healthcare and education; public service; and business.
12
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Support for firms
Chamber seeks directors to join board
A SCHEME to provide Yorkshire firms with free financial advice – to help them operate more effectively and survive the economic crisis – is proving popular.
Cleckheaton-based chartered accountancy firm Clough & Company has reported a fast take-up of the Business Link scheme, which offers a free financial health check worth up to £2,000. The innovative advice service has been designed to give companies a comprehensive understanding of their financial situation through a full business assessment. It includes looking at a company’s revenue, cash flow performance and costs of overheads and sales. Nigel Bullas, a partner at Clough & Company, said: “In the current recession, it is imperative that businesses do all that they can to make sure they are financially secure. “The financial health check is the ideal way of helping companies understand their financial situation and whether or not they need to implement any changes in order to generate healthy sales and steady growth. “It provides businesses with a robust financial plan that will help protect and prepare them for any challenges they may face in the changing economic climate and ensure they are ready for the upturn.” Financed by Yorkshire Forward, the scheme is open to businesses in Yorkshire that have been trading for a minimum of 12 months and employ at least five staff.
■ LEGAL LINE-UP: President of the Huddersfield Law Society Lynn Crabtree with (from left) guest speaker John Myers; Iain Glencross, past president of the Huddersfield Medical Society; Andrew McConnell, president of the Huddersfield Society of Chartered Accountants; and Jimmy McKiee of the St Andrew's Society
Lawyers hear from Uganda MEMBERS of Huddersfield Law Society were updated on the organisation’s work in Uganda at their annual dinner. Almost 200 guests attended the dinner at Bertie’s Banqueting Suite in Elland. Guests were welcomed by president Lyn Crabtree and the guest speaker was barrister John Myers.
Other top table guests included Eileen Marchant, chairman of the bench at Huddersfield Magistrates Court; Stephen Bonfield, president of Halifax Law Society; Andrew McConnell, president of the Huddersfield Society of Char tered Accountants; Jimmy McKiee, of the St Andrew’s Society; and Iain Glencross, past president of
the Huddersfield Medical Society. Sarah Young, a solicitor with Ridley and Hall in Huddersfield, urged more local lawyers to get involved with the work of the society with the Ugandan Law Society, providing text books and arranging visits to provide support and advice.
Seize golden opportunity, firms urged
KIRKLEES firms have been urged to grab a share of the Olympic dream – by competing for contracts to help stage the 2012 Games. Gold medal winning kayaker Tim Brabants was speaking at the launch of the Yorkshire Gold Business Club – a group of 600 companies bidding for some of the 250,000 contracts available still remaining for the 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. He said: “I have been fortunate enough to go to three Olympic Games and I am here to tell everyone what a fantastic experience it is to be involved in the Olympics. “Not everyone can compete, coach or officiate at the games, but Kirklees companies can still be Olympians by taking up a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bid for contracts.” Tim was joined by Sheffield Central MP Richard Caborn and Paralympic archery gold medallist Danielle Brown for the launch of the Yorkshire Gold Business Club at York racecourse. Total contracts amounting to £9.3bn have been identified by the Olympic Devel-
Games. Tim said: “People at the launch event were very positive about the prospect of London hosting the games. “While most of the events will be within 50 minutes of the capital, there is no reason the build-up to the games and the contracts cannot be shared with the rest of the country. They can’t all be awarded to firms in London.” He stressed the massive scale and rane of contracts available, saying: “As an athlete, you take it for granted that things happen. You arrive on the plane, travel to the venues and everything is organised for you. “I hope to compete in London 2012, although I wil be coming to the end of my athletic career at that stage. I will certainly want to be involved in some way or other. It is too good an opportunity to miss – and I hope Kirklees companies will think so, too.” The Yorkshire Gold Business Club is backed by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward and offers companies joining a rane of benefits, including help to identify and bid for 2012 contracts. Visit
A BUSINESS group providing a voice for Huddersfield firms is seeking non-executives to strengthen its board of directors. The Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, which dates back more than 130 years, wants to bring in local business people following the appointment of a new management board. Chamber president ... said the organisation wantred to hear from people who had “substanial business experience at the highest levels” in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. She said: “Interested parties will be placed on our ‘register of interest’ for a period of two years and our nominations panel will draw talent from this register from time to time.” Chamber chairman Eddie Rodgers said non-executives would not be paid, but those taking part would be rewarded by being in a position to make a real difference to their local business community. The chamber board meets up to six times a year. Contact Mr Rodgers at eddie.rodgers @mycci.co.uk
Taking stock in Ireland INDEPENDENT stockbroking and investment management firm Redmayne-Bentley is to expand its branch network to Ireland with an office in Cork – and its first outside the UK. The Leeds-based firm already has more than 30 offices in the UK. Senior partner Keith Loudon said: “Our new team of stockbrokers has 30 years combined experience in stockbroking. We are delighted to welcome them on board to represent the firm in Ireland .”
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
MARKETING MATTERS
Law firm gets sporty
Clare Quartermaine
Being positive IKE the eternal optimist I am known L to be, I am determined to focus on the positive aspects of this recession
and see it as an exciting challenge. And watching what the big boys are doing is providing me with endless entertainment. This is the time when the banks are trying to make themselves appear as boring and safe as possible; when supermarket giants like Tesco are so scared of Aldi and Lidl that they launch new lines that undermine their own value brands! Ever get the impression that there are some knee jerk reactions going on? Certainly, not all brands are suffering from recession depression, but are thriving in this climate. Those that are winning are not undermining their brand with extreme price reductions, but are promoting their more appealing side. The trend at the moment is to focus on brand heritage, sustainability and value for money. All hail the new National Trust strap line “time well spent”! And with “Keep Calm and Carry On” being the mantra of the moment, people seem to have adopted a war effort frame of mind and are responding to more traditional values as opposed to the luxurious messages such as.. “Because I deserve it”. However, when budgets are being stretched to their limits – I have been considering which marketing activities appear to be the most effective in terms of both cost and result. Online marketing in the form of e-mail campaigns is a popular and very cost effective marketing solution. When data is becoming cheaper to buy and you don’t have to spend your budget on print and postage, you can see why companies are moving away from more traditional mail shots. However, the real jewel in the crown here is that with the majority of e-mail campaign software, we can collect a fantastic amount of marketing information. We can see who reads the email, how many times they have opened it, when and what time they read it, whether they clicked through to the website and even if they forwarded it on. With this sort of information at your fingertips, you can respond quickly to the wishes of your audience and develop your products or services accordingly. The results also strongly suggest that more people read the email shots than print. And, of course, it appeals to our environmentally friendly readership as well. So you really cant go wrong. But don’t be tempted to overdo it and bombard your readers. They might get fed up and turn against you! The trick is to use it frugally; such as when you have a special offer or for an important announcement. A mail drop from a favourite shop or general supplier is sometimes a very welcome break during the day and wont be dropped straight away into the recycling bin like its paper rival. Obviously, using emails as part of a larger campaign is the best use of this marketing method but it can initially help to streamline your offers by giving you the strategic information you need to market your business in this, shall we say, challenging time? Clare Quartermaine is founder and managing director of QT Creative
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■ DEAL MAKERS: Concorde Informatics non-executive chairman Barry Roberts (second left) and managing director Colin Meakin (right) with Marcus Armstrong (left), of Lupton Fawcett, and James White, of Brown Butler
New owners take helm at IT company A BRIGHOUSE company providing computer services has been bought by a consortium of local businessmen for a seven-figure sum. Concorde Informatics Ltd, billed as one of the north of England’s leading IT service and solutions providers, was formed in 1985 and has a turnover of £37m. The company employs 50 people at three sites. Long-term clients include Yorkshire Water, Yorkshire County Cricket Club, Jewsons Ltd, Birkby-based Marshalls plc, Rugby League club Bradford Bulls and several police authorities around the UK. The consortium is led by Colin Meakin, Concorde’s business development director, who joined the business 12 months ago after agreeing a deal in principle with its shareholders to set up a buy-in management buy-out that would enable the principal shareholder to retire. The sellers were advised by Huddersfield accountants Revell Ward and law firm Eaton Smith. Mr Meakin had previously spent 21 years at West Yorkshire-based ICM Computer Group plc, latterly as sales and marketing director. When the business was acquired by new owners in 2007 he left to look for his own investment opportunity. One of the key members of Meakin’s consortium is his former mentor, founder and chief executive of ICM Computer Group plc, Barry Roberts. Mr Meakin is taking on the role of managing director while Mr Roberts will act as non-executive chairman. Marcus Armstrong, of Leeds commercial law firm Lupton Fawcett, and James White, of accountants Brown Butler, advised the consortium on the deal, which included setting up a new company – Concorde Excel Holdings Ltd – to purchase the shares in Concorde Informatics Ltd.
The company, a Microsoft Gold Partner, has two specialist divisions offering bespoke software solutions to the automotive and public safety sectors. Together, Mr Meakin and Mr Roberts hold a majority stake in the new company. The consortium of new owners also includes two of the former major shareholders in Concorde, Terry Locker and Kieran Trimmer, who will continue as part of the senior management team. Mr Locker, previously managing director, becomes sales director of the new organisation while Mr Trimmer continues as finance director. Said Mr Meakin: “Concorde Informatics is a successful business with an excellent reputation and plenty of scope for future growth, both organically and through acquisition. “Having Terry and Kieran commit themselves to the new business is a major plus point and structuring the deal has enabled the transfer of ownership to be completed smoothly with little or no disruption to our clients and the day-to-day running of the business. “Last but not least, it’s fantastic to be reunited with Barry, who has a wealth of knowledge and experience in this market. We had a very successful relationship at ICM and we are both excited by the prospects at Concorde.” Mr Armstrong, a director in Lupton Fawcett’s corporate finance team, said: “We are delighted to have played a key role in Colin's first acquisition, which has been completed without any recourse to external finance. “Having worked closely with the management team, I am confident that the company is well placed to succeed in the IT service sector through organic growth and further acquisition.” The sellers were advised by Huddersfield accountants Revell Ward and law firm Eaton Smith.
COMMERCIAL law firm Lupton Fawcett has launched a new sports and media law department. The new unit is headed by Stephen Taylor Heath, one of theYorkshire region’s leading sports and media lawyers who has held in-house counsel positions with Sports Network Ltd, the boxing promotion company spearheaded by promoter Frank Warren, and Racing UK, the subscription horse racing channel. To mark the launch of the department, Leeds-based Lupton Fawcett hosted a masterclass for clients and contacts presented by Des Hasler, head coach of Australian rugby league team Manly Sea Eagles, the current NRL Grand Final winners. Hasler, an Australian rugby league legend, took a break from preparing his side to face Leeds Rhinos in the World Club Challenge to give a presentation on motivation, man-management, preparation and performance. Richard Marshall, Lupton Fawcett’s managing director-designate, said: “This is part of our drive to provide specialist advice in niche areas. “Stephen is one of the region’s most experienced and respected sports and media lawyers. His arrival has added significantly to the firm’s expertise in this field of law and has provided the impetus for establishing this new department.” Stephen said: “Sports and media businesses play an important part in this region’s economy and they have specialist legal needs. Our aim is to make Lupton Fawcett their number one choice.”
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14
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Anger at parking charge scheme
Jewel in the crown A J E W E L L E RY retailer with a branch in Huddersfield has been voted the best in Britain for taking care of its staff. Beaverbrooks, which has a store at King Street and 65 outlets UK-wide, topped the 2009 Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For. The results of the award are based on a survey of employees and a company questionnaire. A spokesman for the firm said: “Looking after and motivating their employees is at the heart of Beaverb ro o k s ’ c o m p a ny ethos. “The working environment this generates means employees often move swiftly through the ranks from shop floor to management, resulting in a dedicated a n d c a r i n g w o r kforce.”
Close call for firms SMALLER firms in Yorkshire are showing their resilience in the face of the financial crisis. A survey by Close Invoice Finance showed that one in five SMEs in the region expected their business to expand during 2009 – while 45% predicted it would stay the same size. Only 4% felt they would have to cease trading. Asked to pedict the impact on staffing l e v e l s, m o r e t h a n two-thirds of the 500 firms polled expected to keep the same number of permanent staff, while one in seven said they would recruit new permanent employees during 2009. David Thomson, chief executive officer of Close Invoice Finance, said: “Our survey shows that this sector is incredibly resilient and – even as the UK enters a recession – one in five SMEs still expects to expand this year.”
■ YORKSHIRE RIDING: Jamie Hunt (front), regional managing director, of Cattles Invoice Finance, pictured with Gary Yates, manager of GNY Sourcing at York
Equestrian supplier is taking the reins A COMPANY specialising in equestrian and country clothing is galloping ahead of the pack after securing funding from Birstall-based Cattles Invoice Finance. York-based GNY Sourcing Ltd was set up in 2002 by entrepreneur Gary Yates and owns the Blaze equestrian clothing range, which is stocked throughout the UK. Each year, six young riders are selected by experts to become ambassadors for the brand. The lucky few then join the exclusive Blaze Academy and receive a training bursary of £500.
Sport England recently awarded the British Equestrian Federation £5m as part of its £480m investment in grass roots sport. The grant will be used to increase participation and sustain the development of horse-riding in the UK. GNY Sourcing plans to use the funds from Cattles Invoice Finance to expand the business and ensure financial stability in a turbulent retail market. Gary Yates, director of GNY Sourcing Ltd, said: “The 2012 Olympics has definitely sparked interest in picking up
a new sport, especially in horse-riding. The new line of funding will help us develop our existing brands but also help kit out all those aspiring Olympians!” Jamie Hunt, regional manager at Cattles Invoice Fina n c e, s a i d : “A l t e r n a t ive sources of funding such as invoice finance can provide a lifeline for growing businesses. “It is great to see businesses like GNY Sourcing Ltd proactively seeking to secure their future through expansion and extra funding.”
BUSINESS leaders in Kirklees have attacked proposals to allow councils to charge firms that provide car parking spaces at work. A consultation period has closed on the Workplace Parking Levy scheme which would let councils charge firms for private parking spaces. Supporters of the scheme said revenues could it would deter people from using their cars and the revenues raised could be used to fund improvements in public transport. Nottingham City Council has already said it will adopt WPL and intends to charge firms £185 a yar for each workplace parking space from April 2010, rising to £350 by 2014. But Stephen Leigh, policy spokesman for the Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce branded the WPL as “a tax too far” and urged Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon to reject it. The British Chambers of Commerce calculate that if every council in Enaldn outside London adopted WPL, it would cost companies up to £3.4bn a year. A petition on the BCC website opposing the levy has been signed by 5,500 people. Said Mr Leigh: “In the present economic circumstances these proposals, if taken forward, would have a further serious adverse effect on the wealth-creating sector of the economy. “It will business which will drive the UK out of recession and it is particularly important that business should be given urgent and special consideration rather than being burdened with increased taxation.” Mr Leigh said that despite all the difficulties faced by businesses, the Government continued to “niggle away with more and more taxation, control and regulation” – which was likely to prolong the recession and increase the likelihood of job losses. And he claimed: “The effect of the WPL would be likely to be the complete opposite of what is supposedly intended. “Far from reducing congestion, the effect of the new tax would be to displace vehicles from off-road parking parking bays onto the streest – and add to the congestion in city centres and surrounding areas.”
Architects in spotlight AN architectural and interior design practice in Huddersfield has been shortlisted for a national award. Above & Beyond, based at Folly Hall Mills, is among the contenders for an award from the British Council for Offices in recognition of the firm’s work on a new head office development for South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive in Sheffield. Andrew Stoddart, managing director of Above & Beyond, said: “We’re delighted to have our hard work rewarded with this shortlisting. “The project really brought to life what Above & Beyond is all about as a practice – understanding our clients’ business objectives and using our design to help them achieve their goals. We believe this is an outstanding project and we’re looking forward to showing the judges our work.” Above & Beyond, formed in 1999, has a staff of 20 and works across a range of sectors including offices, transport and residential.
15
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Kirklees company expands A KIRKLEES company is set to invest £500,000 in expanding and upgrading its premises to meet growing demand for its equipment. Sewtec Automation, based in Ravensthorpe Industrial Estate, is a specialist manufacturer of automated equipment for the process and packaging industries. The company designs and produces machinery for the efficient handling and packing of products in a range of markets including food, tobacco and pharmaceutical. Sewtec managing director Bernard Meehan said that business remains strong, despite the current downturn. “In tough economic times, it is all the more important for manufacturers to maximise production efficiencies and throughput,” said Mr Meehan. “We are continuing to see a lot of interest in our bespoke solutions from a wide variety of companies. This investment programme will ensure that we are well placed to respond quickly to develop equipment and systems to meet specific customer requirements.” he expansion will see the company increase its current “footprint” by some 10,000sq ft, which as well as providing a smoother flow of work through the factory and helping to improve response times, will provide room for additional equipment in order to expand manufacturing capacity. The plans also include increased office accommodation for administration, control/electrical engineers, and design staff. Sufficient overcapacity is being built into all areas of the factory to allow for a current recruitment drive for additional skilled personnel.
Top award for Sesame A FINANCIAL services group based in Huddersfield has scooped a top industry award. Lindley-based Sesame Group was named Best Network and Support Services Provider at the Money Marketing Financial Services Awards held in London in recognition of the service and support it delivers to 7,500 financial advisers across the UK. The award covers a wide range of regulatory, product research, training and business development support services that enable IFA firms to trade efficiently and responsibly. Judges praised Sesame for its efforts to helping IFAs and their customers build robust and profitable businesses during the current economic climate. Sesame, which is based at Independence House, Holly Bank Road, has 500 staff across the UK and an annual turnover of £300m. It is part of the Friends Provident Group.
EMPLOYERS' BRIEFING Neil Wilson
Stress in the workplace HE Health an Safety Executive now T gives detailed advice and guidance on preventing stress in the workplace on its
■ SHOP TALK: Allison Burnley, manager of the new M&S Simply Food store at Waterloo in Huddersfield
Allison’s back as manager of M&S store A WOMAN who began her career with The store, which occupies a unit at the Marks & Spencer in Huddersfield on a Gallagher Centre on the site of the former YTS scheme has returned to the town – as Huddersfield Rugby Union ground, manager of its latest store. stocks more than 2,000 food products, Allison Burnley cut the ribbon to open including ready meals fresh produce, the new M&S Simply Food store at sandwiches, salads and snacks, as well as Wakefield Road, Waterloo. wines and champagne. She was joined for the ceremony by There is also a bakery providing bread, colleague Helen Rowell, who began work cakes and pastires as well as a selection of with M&S on the same day as Allison 26 clothing, and accessories, greetings cards years ago at the firm’s New Street store and gift wrap, flowers, homeware, newsand who is now in charge of training at paper and magazines. the new Simply Food outlet. The outlet also incorporates Said Allison: “We used to say that one energy-saving features, including day we’d run a shop together! “To come back to Huddersfield and dual-flush toilets and self-closing taps as open this fantastic new store is a dream well as lighting with movement sensors to reduce waste. come true for me.” Some 70% of materials used to build Allison, 41, first worked for M&S on work experience when she was a pupil at the store have been recycled. Allison, who was also joined by M&S Newsome High School. She joined the company on a youth retail director Steve Rowe for the official training scheme in May, 1993, but nur- opeing, said the store would appeal to a tured plans to attend Greenhead College “different” customer to the town centre and eventually join the police. branch. When the company offered her a “Because there is a large car park, we full-time job that summer, Allison expect the store to attract people in cars, jumped at the chance. “I thought working although it is also close to bus routes,” she with the public would be good experience said. for when I joined the police,” she said. “Wakefield Road is a commuter route However, 10 years later, she was still to Sheffield and Wakefield as well, so we with M&S – leaving the Huddersdfield expect to pick up on that.” branch to become a performance manAllison is married to Simon, 42, a ager overseeing the food halls at a number self-employed eletrician. The couple, who of M&S stores. In 2004, she graduated in training and live at Lascelles Hall, have a 12-year-old development from Middlesex University son, Ben. She said opening day at the store had as part of an M&S scheme. Allison became store manager at the been “heaving” and added: “We’ve had a firm’s Castleford branch before working fantastic first day. “The initial response from local cusin Leed for a number of years – latterly as manager of the Simply Food store at tomers has been that they are delighted with the range of products on offer. Crossgates. “There are already lots of loyal M&S As manager of the new 7,200sq ft store at Waterloo, Allison heads 50 full and shoppers in the area, so it’s great to be part-time staff, including three section able to offer them our products in such a heads. convenient location.”
website www.hse.gov.uk. The resources range from self assessment questionnaires for line managers to case studies and practical examples of how other organisations have benefited from the guidance. The launch of the website comes after recent figures showed an estimated total of 13.5m days were lost to work related stress last year. Employees absent with stress often means a significant cost to the business through sickness costs, cost of replacement and the management time it takes to deal with the illness. The HSE recommends that spotting the signs early and encouraging a culture of communication with managers and directors can help to prevent work place stress and the costs associated with it. Peter Brown, head of the HSE’s health and work division, said: “Pressure is part and parcel of all work and helps to keep us motivated. But excessive pressure can lead to stress which undermines performance, is costly to employers and can make people ill. In the current economic crisis businesses are looking to save wherever possible and managing work related stress effectively could represent some significant savings.” The recent economic downturn has seen a marked rise in employees suffering from stress; whether it be work related or from other factors. What is apparent from recent research carried out by a consultancy firm is that only a third of employees would discuss the stresses of their job with their managers. This could potentially mean that many employers are not aware that their employees are stressed and cannot therefore proactively manage this problem. As mentioned above this could lead to prolonged periods of absence and significant costs to businesses. It is suggested that employees may feel unable to talk to not only their managers but other facilities available within the Company such as occupational health therapists. More alarmingly it may even be seen as a sign of weakness to show that an employee is stressed. As mentioned in the previous article therefore it is imperative that employers recognise early signs of stress and put clear support measures in place to encourage employees to discuss matters internally if they have any problems. Meanwhile, the Work and Families Act 2006 made significant changes to maternity leave entitlements and it was expected that further changes would follow in 2009 and 2010. However, in light of the current economic downturn the Government has announced that it is reviewing these proposals. The plans were to allow mothers to take up to 52 weeks paid maternity leave (currently they are entitled to a maximum of 39 weeks paid leave) and allowing fathers to take up to 26 weeks of paternity leave subject to the mother taking all of her entitlement. It appears that the announcement from Business Secretary Lord Mandelson has been received warmly by employer groups. A spokesman at the British Chamber of Commerce has stated “the cumulative cost of regulation on business now stands at £66bn. A moratorium on harmful extra legislation would be good news in difficult times”. Neil Wilson is an Employment Lawyer at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors
16 Glittering event for coaches YORKSHIRE firms achieving success with the help of business coaches were recognised as a glittering awards night. The ActionCOACH Awards were held at the Alea casino in Leeds when the guest speaker was former footballer and now Burnley FC chief executive Paul Fletcher. York-based building services company HDTi Ltd scooped the prizes in three categories – for enterprise, innovation and the top title of Business of the Year. The company, which is coached byYork-based ActionCOACH business coach Mandy Hildred, has increased its workload and increased the value of its average contract from £250 to £10,000 in less than a year. Said Mandy: “I am over the moon that HDTi Ltd have won three awards and that all of their hard work has been recognised. The awards celebrate each team member and the effort that has been put in to realise the true potential of the business.”
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
Allsops marks 50 years A FIRM providing sheet metal components to a wide range of industries is celebrating 50 years of business success. Allsops Ltd, launched by founder Bob Allsop with just three employees in 1959, has grown to employ 120 staff and achieve annual sales of £10m. It has become one of the most respected names in the field of quality sheet metal components and fabrications – thanks in part to its commitment to investing in the latest state-of-the-art equipment, computer technology and automation. Until 1990 the company was a traditional sheet metal subcontractor using conventional machine tools,. Recognising the need to become more efficient and more competitive, the company has installed computer-controlled machines and laser cutting kit to increase speed, accuracy and flexibility. Investment in up-to-date equipment has also contributed to a reduction in material costs. Paul Goodwin, who became managing director in 1993, said: “Considering we have never had our own product, it is amazing that we were able to continually expand, particularly during some of the difficult trading conditions in the 1990s. “We put this ability down to our large, diverse customer base. We keep a careful watch on industry and market trends and seek new areas of business where opportunities are identified. “We try to always anticipate change and are prepared to exploit other avenues
Moving north for recruits
■ FIFTY UP: Celebrating the firm's 50 years in business are Allsops managing director Paul Goodwin (left) and (from left) business development director Stephen Fennell, technical director Stephane Levicoalis and finance director Ian Johnson
of business. We manufacture, to order, from customer’s own designs or we can draw up customer’s requirements ourselves, for many industries including shopfitting, electrical control cabinets, lighting, metal furniture and food processing equipment. “The choice we can offer customers of CNC laser cutting and high speed CNC punching provides customers with the most cost effective choice of flat component production.” By 1998 the company was employing 120 people and boasting a turnover of £5.5m. At about this time, the firm introduced a purpose-built powder coating plant to further enhance the service Allsops offered to customers. The most significant investment and further step towards automation took place in 1999 when Allsops had commis-
sioned nine press brakes. Allsops entered the new millenium looking for further growth. At the start of 2000, the company invested in its second Bystronic laser cutting system and towards the end of the year the company purchased the latest Pullmax 6000 punching system. The company moved to a new 85,000sq ft site in 2001 and invested in an additional powder coating plant and a second Bysprint laser cutting systems as well as a Virtek Laser QC quality inspection system. Additional investment in laser cutting and bending systems and punching machines took place throughout the years until 2008 when automation really began to play a major part in Allsops manufacturing process.
Project helps job seekers JOB seeeker Akbar Amini may soon be sitting on the other side of the desk after gaining qualifications in developing information, advide and guidance. Akbar joined the Up & Working project – a community employment agency fundined by Yorkshire Forward – in June, 2008, as he struggled with his English, which was preventing him getting a job. Akbar was a secondary school teacher in his native Iran and during his initial appointment with an Up & Working employment adviser, he expressed an interest towards working in an advisory position. When the opportunity arose for Up & Working to place candidates on the advice and guidance course, Akbar was the first name on the list. To further support Akbar with the completion of the course, Up & Working hired an interpreter to ensure that Akbar fully grasped what the course was about. With the help of the translator, Akbar was able to complete all the necessary course work. Up & Working, based in the Media Centre at Huddersfield, are funded through the Kirklees Access to Employment Programme. The agency provides support to consult, advise and guide people to overcome barriers preventing them from securing employment. Up & Working is now helping Akbar secure some voluntary work to give him
■ WORKING HARD: Akbar Amini, with the qualification he gained thanks to help from community employment consultancy Up & Working at the Media Centre, Huddersfield
practical experience in giving advice. . Helen Thomson, assistant director of economic inclusion at Yorkshire Forward, said: “As the region's development agency, we work with our partners to ensure that everyone in Yorkshire and Humber has equal employment opportunities, particularly during this time of economic difficulty.
“Up & Working plays an important role in the community by helping to improve employment opportunities and supporting individuals in overcoming any existing barriers to employment – bringing local employers and prospective employees together.” Contact Up & Working on 0800 0510299.
LEGAL and financial recruitment specialist Sellick Partnership has opened for business in West Yorkshire as part of an expansion strategy. The new Leeds office, led by board director Hannah Cottam, will provide financial and legal recruitment services for public and private sector organisations across the region. Sellick Partnership, formed in 2002, has seven offices UK-wide. It achieved turnover totalling £16m in 2008 and expects sales reach £21m this year. Ms Cottam said: “Leeds was the obvious choice as a location due to the city being the second largest legal centre in the UK as well as offering a fantastic infrastructure and links to reach other areas within the region.” Amy Bullock manages the legal recruitment division, supplying qualified solicitors and barristers to public and private organisations across the north.
Offering an alternative to job cuts
YORKSHIRE firms facing the prospect of making redundancies are being offered specialist help. Regional development agency Yorkshire Forward and arbitration service ACAS have joined forces to offer advice to help firms cope. The move comes as ACAS revealed that redundancy issues now accounted for almost a third of all calls to its national helpline. The link-up provides ACAS with more resources to support Yorkshire businesses – advising them on their responsibilities when it comes to making redundancies as well as helping them identify potential alternatives to making job cuts. ACAS adviser Fiona Williams said: “Companies looking at reducing staff costs often assume that the only way that they can do this is to shed jobs. In reality, if the company has timely and expert information and guidance, then alternatives can be found. “Where businesses have to consider cost cutting and changes to their practices, then we want to ensure they have the opportunity for an early intervention with experts who can advise them on all of their options and obligations.” Helen Thomson, assistant director at Yorkshire Forward, said: “It is important that companies and employees have access to expert skills and support that can help them if they do reach the difficult position of making cuts.” Contact Fiona Williams on 0113 205 3800 or call the helpline on 08457 474747
17
April, 2009
eddisons.com KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
PROPERTY FOCUS
‘Waterfront’ architects land top property award THE architects behind Huddersfield’s Waterfront Quarter scheme has won a top award. Leeds-based DLG Architects lifted the Architectural Practice Award for Excellence at the second annual Property Executive North Awards. The ceremony took place in Manchester – with DLG being the only nominated architectural practice from Yorkshire. Other shortlisted practices included Ryders Newcastle and Broadway Malayan from Manchester. DLG, which also has offices in London, was recognised for its work on several schemes, including master planning for the Waterfront Quarter project, which is set to transform a triangle of land bordered by Manchester Road, Chapel Hill and the river Colne.
The scheme includes offices, flats, a new campus for Kirklees College, car parking and the re-opening of a section of Huddersfield Narrow Canal. The site is currently occupied by Sellers Engineers, which will move to a new lcoation in the town. Andrew Gardner, partner at DLG Architects, said: “We felt honored to be nominated and delighted to win this much coveted award. “It is a great boost to our dedicated team who have contributed greatly to the successful completion of some key projects for the practice this year.” Scheme include The Atrium in Camberley; Willow Place in Corby; 14 Cornhill in London; The Becketts in Leeds; and The Ridings in Wakefield.”
Holme Bank Mills, Station Road, Mirfield
industrial
HOUSEBUILDER Persimmon has racked up losses of £780m for 2008 after reviewing the value of its land holdings. Excluding one-off costs totalling £904.8m, the York-based company made underlying profits of £126.6m – down by 78% on 2007. The firm warned that 2009 would be another difficult year, but offered some encouragement on recent trading. Weekly sales volumes so far this year were ahead of expectations, it said, while the order book was worth £698m. And West Yorkshire regional managing director Wayne Gradwell reported an increased level of interest in its developments across the region – including ones in H e c k m o n dw i ke, C l e c k h e at o n a n d Southowram – during the first two months Wayne Gradwell of trading in 2009. He said: “Many potential purchasers are The company said: “We expect these now taking the view that properties have reached a price level where they represent facilities to provide ample headroom and great value for money. Our wide geographic support for the effective management of the spread, covering 25 sites throughout West business over the next few years.” The severe downturn in the housing marYorkshire means that we are well-placed to ket last year led Persimmon to focus on benefit from this upturn in the market. “In addition, we have a wide product keeping costs to a minimum and conserving range from one bedroom apartments right cash. It reduced staffing levels to about 2,300 through to five bedroom family homes and we continue to market these with a wide after cutting its number of staff by 55% since variety of sales incentives such as part early 2008. The company maintained its three operatexchange and shared equity.” The company said: “We believe the com- ing brands of Persimmon, Charles Church bination of lower interest rates and an and Westbury Partnerships, but reduced the improvement in affordability will assist in number of operating businesses from 36 to increasing first time buyer activity, although 25 over the year. Legal completions for 2008 of 10,202 the threat of increased unemployment represented a cut of 36% on last year, remains a concern.” The company said it had renegotiated generating revenues of £1.75bn. The average terms on its existing debt and had also selling price of £172,994 was down by 8.7% agreed a new facility of £322m repayable in on a year earlier as a result of continued 2012. It will have funding lines of £1.08bn, pressure on prices and a 22% increase in reducing to £560m during 2011. affordable homes completions.
TO LET/ MAY SELL 3,261 m² - 8,451 m² (35,102 sq ft - 90,970 sq ft) Modern warehouse units. Generous 10m minimum eaves height Rental incentives available TO LET 73 m² - 930 m² (786 sq ft - 10,000 sq ft) Varierty of warehouse, workshop and office units. Popular secure business park. Convenient for junction 25/M62
Unit 3 Hoyer Industrial Park Leeds Road, Huddersfield
TO LET 569 m² (6,130 sq ft) Modern warehouse unit. Prominent main road location off the A62 Leeds Road. Generous secure yard and car parking provision
Units 1&2 Radcliffe Industrial Estate Lowlands Road, Mirfield
TO LET 779 m² - 1,729 m² (8,385 sq ft - 18,609 sq ft) Open span warehouse/industrial units. Cost-effective industrial space. Generous eaves height
Bent Ley Mills Huddersfield Road, Meltham, Holmfirth
retailretailretailretailoffice office officeofficeoffice
Falling prices lure would-be house buyers
Units 2&7 Jubilee Business Park Grange Moor, Wakefield
FOR SALE 3,428 m² (36,896 sq ft) Industrial investment opportunity. Passing rent of £80,600 p.a. Substantial single storey warehouse
Cartwright Court Bradley Business Park, Huddersfield
TO LET 70 m² - 410 m² (740 sq ft - 4,420 sq ft) High quality office suites. Self contained office development Immediately available
Wakefield Road, Lepton, Huddersfield
TO LET 11 m² - 193 m² (126 sq ft - 2,078 sq ft) Newly refurbished retail/office units. Prominent position fronting busy A642 Wakefield Road. Generous car parking provision
Norwich Union House, Huddersfield
TO LET Various suite sizes available Prominent town centre location. High specification accommodation. Lift access to all floors
The Library, Wellington Road, Dewsbury
TO LET 769 m² (8,275 sq ft) Imposing town centre property. Suitable for a variety of commercial uses (subject to planning). Generous rental incentives available
The Other Rooms 41- 45 Queengate, Huddersfield
FOR SALE 538 m² (5,792 sq ft) Prominent bar/restaurant premises. Opposite the University of Huddersfield. Suitable for a variety of uses without the need for planning Contact Philip Deakin or David Wright
01484 533151
Oak House New North Road Huddersfield HD1 5LG Birmingham Bradford Bristol Glasgow Huddersfield Leeds London Manchester
eddisons.com
Eddisons
18
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
PROPERTY FOCUS
Consultancy Upbeat report – but wins healthy outlook far less rosy new contract A COMPANY in Huddersfield has been awarded a three-year contract to provide health and safety services to one of the UK’s bigest commercial property consultancies. Bradley-based Safety Management and Monitoring Services will carry out health and safety, fire and flood risk assessments as well as asbestos surveys and online data management for 350 managed properties on behalf of Lambert Smith Hampton. SM&MS has been working with LSH for more than four years, having gained “preferred supplier” status to provide asbestos surveys on a national basis in 2004. Since then, it has completed more than 500 asbestos surveys on behalf of LSH and has provided expert health and safety advice to many of the regional offices as required. In addition, SM&MS provides its bespoke online contractor management system, ContractorPlus, to LSH. This allows the company to vet the health and safety documentation of all contractors it uses in order to reduce risks in using such contractors. Sue Morris, director at SM&MS, said: ‘We are delighted to have been awarded such a prestigious contract with LSH. “This is a reflection of the expert advice and support we have provided them on health and safety matters in the last few years and is a further indication of our continued success in the commercial property market.’ LSH provides a broad range of commercial property services and advice to clients in both the public and private sector. It has a network of 28 offices spanning the UK and Ireland. Robert Faulkner, head of asset and property management at LSH in London, said: ‘We are very happy that SM&MS will be supporting our health and safety requirements over the next three years. “As a company we have a comprehensive health and safety policy and
■ HEALTH PLAN: Sue Morris, director of Safety Management and Monitoring Services
with the involvement of SM&MS we will ensure that our teams work safely and securely, with no risk to themselves or those around them.” As part of the new contract, SM&MS will also supply LSH with its innovative PropertyPlus system, which links into ContractorPlus and will enable the company to assign tasks to approved contractors, get fee proposals and raise purchase orders for tasks derived from risk assessments. SM&MS)was founded in 1994 and has grown into one of the UK’s leading providers of health and safety services – helping companies meet legislative demands and achieve best health and safety practice. T h e c o m p a ny, wh i c h h a s i t s headquarters at Bradley Business Park and branch offices in London and Bristol, employs 80 people UK_wide providing health and safety, fire and flood risk assessment as well as disability audits, asbestos surveys, environmental management and training.
TAKE-UP of industrial and distribution space across Yorkshire rose by 5% last year, a report has revealed. Figures from national property consultancy Lambert Smith Hampton showed that 7.5m sq ft of space was taken up during the year. Some of the largest deals included Sainsbury’sacquiring 564,000sq ft at the former Somerfield unit in Sherburn-in-Elmet and the take up of 380,000sq ft by Campack SA at Opus Maximus, Scunthorpe. Rob Whatmuff, head of industrial agency at LSH in Leeds, said: “The major industrial and distribution markets across West Yorkshire performed better than average during the early part of last year, with occupier demand being mainly driven by the local economy.” H o w e v e r, L S H ’s l a t e s t research showed that the national industrial and distribution sector was bracing itself for
a sharp reduction in demand for space from retailers as a result of falling house prices and reduced consumer spending. Said Mr Whatmuff: “Despite its strong performance, the region has already begun to see a slowdown in enquiries with signs of take-up reducing. “Consumer confidence has been decimated, which has had a disastrous effect with retail coll ap s e s a n d t h e i n ev i t abl e knock-on effect on the big shed market in the region.” Despite the continued economic downturn, headline rentals are still being achieved, although landlords are offering greater incentives in order to achieve this. Mr Whatmuff said: “The economic uncertainty has also hit the small unit market, with occupiers increasingly wary of committing to new premises without flexibility and the feeling of a ‘deal’ being won via greater incentives.” LSH suggested the recent his-
■ UNCERTAINTY: Rob Whatmuff, head of industrial agency at Lambert Smith Hampton
toric drop in interest rates would not prevent a significant weakening in the UK industrial and distribution property sector in 2009 and 2010.
Hat-trick triumph for Marshalls personnel BUILDING products company Marshalls has won a hat-trick of awards in a national competition. Marshalls, which is based at Birkby and has operations in Elland, picked up the prizes in the Sustain Magazine Awards, which were presented at a ceremony in London. The company won the International Trade Award for
its partnership approach to working with overseas suppliers. It also landed the Governance Award for being the first company to “carbon label” an entire product range. And it secured the Gold Award for Sustainability, Business and the Built Environment in recognition of its “green” credentials.
Group marketing director Chris Harrop said: “Winning these awards is a testament to our approach and Marshalls’ commitment to sustainability. “Every business should make an active contribution to society as part of its key strategy, and the Sustain Magazine Awards showcased the very best.”
Key sectors hit by credit crisis LACK of cash and confidence caused by the credit crunch has reduced activity and prices for properties in the leisure and retail sectors, says a report. Christie + Co’s Business Outlook 2009 showed that values in the hotel sector fell by 18.3% during 2008 while the pub and restaurant sectors saw declines of 11.6% and 14.9% respectively. The care sector reported a 16.8% reduction while retail fared a little better with a 6.4% drop in average values. David Rugg, chairman of Christie + Co, said: “We are still seeing a consistent volume of buyers registering on our website and viewing businesses.
“In fact, we arranged more viewings by more viewers in 2008 as against 2007. The number of businesses for sale is stable and constant. It is the lack of cash, and with it a lack of certainty, that has slowed the market confidence of both buyer and seller. “Vendors continue to be motivated to sell for a variety of reasons — retirement, death, changes in personal circumstances or financial need — and buyer enthusiasm still exists. “Although many first time buyers have been deterred by the economic uncertainty, our transactional activity confirms that there are still new entrants to our markets, seeking to control their own investments and careers,
as well as the experienced operators who possess sufficient confidence and knowledge to expand.” Mr Rugg said Christie + Co’s advisory activity was also in demand – in line with the industry’s need for valuations and specialist professional advice. Mr Rugg said the challenge in 2009 would be matching vendor expectations with those of funded buyers. He said: “We saw signs, late in 2008, that vendors had become more realistic in their price expectations, thus providing real value opportunities for cash rich buyers in 2009.” Chris Day, international managing director at Christie + Co, said: “Most businesses
enter 2009 with concerns about future trading and the impact current economic difficulties will have on their performance. “At whatever level a business is trading we believe that service delivery and customer care will ensure that the business stands the best chance of success. “Increasingly we are seeing buyers looking to acquire businesses to achieve much higher returns on their cash than can currently be achieved almost anywhere else. “Unfortunately there will be “distressed” opportunities, as the market readjusts to a more normalised financing climate and values reflect the more cautious approach of lower leveraged investors.”
19
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
PROPERTY FOCUS
Major upgrade for BES A COMPANY specialising in property compliance has invested £600,000 in state-of-the-art technology. Moldgreen-based BES Consulting is upgrading its computer systems and internet-based operations to help clients ensure their properties meet legal requirements for energy efficiency, fire safety and asbestos protection. “Managing property compliance is complex, time-consuming and requires the storage of considerable paperwork,” said BES Consulting sales and marketing director Steven Daniels. “Each property needs to be surveyed regularly to ensure its continued compliance in each area governed by legislation. Remedial actions need to be managed and paperwork needs to be readily available. “It is a considerable challenge. If just one key date or action is missed, a company risks tough penalties. “We are investing in the
Funding success for green supplier A COMPANY in Huddersfield providing environmentally-friendly building materials has secured a six-figure loan to help it grow even greener. Environmental Construction Products Ltd, which trades as Green Building Store, has received the £100,000 loan from Partnership Investment Finance. The funding is being used to help the Golcar-based business promote its products in new and emergy markets. It will also enable the firm to develop new products targeted at the public sector. The company supplies environmentally-sensitive building products which promote energy efficiency. Items range from insulation to windows and from paint to bathroom fixtures. The company was involved in building a low-energy house at Longwood and has been praised for its worrk with West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive for its installation of waterless urinals and
■ CHALLENGE: Steven Daniels, consulting sales and marketing director at BES Consulting further development of our Property Compliance Manager, an innovative web-based product that removes this headache for property managers.” The new investment follows a £1m investment in building the largest field-based team of surveyors qualified to help commercial property managers to reduce their energy costs and receive Energy Performance Certificates. EPCs became a legal requirement for all commercial buildings let or sold from October and BES Consulting is creating at least 30 new jobs to help meet soaring demand from clients, including pub operators Marston’s and Punch Taverns.
water-saving toilets in bus stations. Steve Slator, financial director of E nv i ro n m e n t a l C o n s t r u c t i o n Products, said: “We need to maintain our position as a leader in providing environmentally sound building materials. “New Government legislation affecting social housing builds means architects and developers are looking for us to provide materials aimed at achieving tough environmental standards. “The loan enables us to commission and hold stock of a unique new water-saving bath, to help developers hit their targets for water efficiency, and achieve Secure By Design status for our range of windows. “It will also help us target our marketing in the social housing sector which is one of the few construction markets with potential for growth.” Ian Howson, PIF lending manager, said: “Environmental Construction Products is an innovative company which has found a niche away from traditional markets.
“It is forward thinking and they were moving towards the public sector construction market before the credit crunch hit. “Their business plans are strong and we believe the funding will enable them to develop their products and expand further.” PIF is an investment fund aimed at supporting growing businesses in Yorkshire. It has invested £37m in growing businesses over the past four years . The move was welcomed by Alex McWhirter, assistant director of business at regional development agency Yorkshire Forward. He said: “Companies that are d eve l o p i n g g re e n t e c h n o l og y products are ideally positioned to contribute to the long term growth of the region. “They will become increasingly important as the Government strives to hit its carbon reduction targets and it is important we provide support for companies like Environmental Construction Products enabling them to thrive and expand.”
commercial properties
14 st georges square, huddersfield hd1 1jf telephone 01484 558231/530361 - jonathan.wilson@bramleys1.co.uk
BRETTON STREET, SAVILE TOWN, DEWSBURY
PRICE ON APPLICATION
* Single Storey Industrial Unit with 2 Storey Office Block * 865.10m² (9,312ft²) * Popular Industrial Estate * Roller Shutter
Doors * Secure Site * 3 Phase Electricity * Gas Blower Heaters * 2.3 mles from Dewsbury Town Centre
offices industrial
SILVER STREET, SHAWS IND ESTATE, ASPLEY
£75,000 P/A
* Modern Industrial Unit * 1,473m² (15,857ft² ) * Roller Shutter Door * Rateable Value £61,500
* Popular Industrial Estate * 3 phase electricity * Outskirts of Huddersfield town centre * Gas supply
www.bramleys.com WHITACRE STREET, OFF LEEDS ROAD
RENTS ON APPLICATION
* Newly Refurbished Industrial Units * 500, 4260 & 6,337 sqft' * Single Storey * Good Secure Yard Space * Roller Shutter Doors
* Popular Leeds Road Corridor location * Close to M62 Motorway and town centre STARTER UNITS ALSO AVAILABLE
retail
HALIFAX ROAD, LIVERSEDGE
£4,750 P/A
*Modern Industrial Unit *73.2sqm (788sq ft) *Modern industrial unit on small industrial park *Rateable value to be assessed
*Self contained *Large roller shutter door *UNIT OF 571ft2 also available
offices OLD LEEDS ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD
FROM £10 PSF
* High Quality Office Accommodation * From 61.78m² (665ft²) to 383.87m² (4,132ft²) * High Specification Offices with Contemporary Design
* High Security * Former Chapel * Central Heating * Good car parking * Outskirts of Huddersfield Town Centre * Double Glazing
ST GEORGES SQUARE, HUDDERSFIELD
£12,000 P/A FLEXIBLE TERMS/ INCENTIVES
* Self Contained 3rd Floor Office Suite * 151.59m² (1,631ft²) net internal * Town centre location * Adjacent to railway
station * Full repairing and insuring lease * Gas fired central heating * Lift access * Security entrance system
WAKEFIELD ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD
£12,500 P/A
* Retail shop with ancillary accommodation * 103m (1,110ft) * Main road location * On street car parking
* Fully centrally heated * Suspended ceiling * Rateable value £5,200 * Outskirts of town centre
retail
DAISY LANE, HOLMFIRTH
£10,000 P/A
* Contemporary Office Accommodation * 80.54m² (867ft² ) NIA * Former Coach House * Pleasant Setting
* High specification Category II Lighting * Rateable Value £4,350 * Outskirts of Holmfirth * Car parking spaces
UPPERHEAD ROW, HUDDERSFIELD
£6,000 P/A
* Refurbished Second Floor Office Suite * 88.25m² (950ft²) * Open plan accommodation * Refurbished Second Floor Office Suite * 88.25m² (950ft²) * Open plan accommodation
* Opposite bus station * Centrally heated * Rateable Value £4,550 * Suspended ceiling with inset lighting * Close to Multi-Storey car park
WESTGATE, CLECKHEATON
£110 P/W
7 Westgate, Cleckheaton £110 P/W * Shop/Clinic * 35.86m² (386ft²) * uPVC shop front * Central heating * New lease
* Main road location * Various uses subject to planning consent
20
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
PROPERTY FOCUS
Eddisons to handle sale for Clariant SPECIALITY chemical company Clariant has instructed chartered surveyor Eddisons to handle the disposal of a major industrial complex in the Aire Valley. The site on Calverley Lane, Horsforth, extends to over 48 acres and has excellent development potential, according to Eddisons. Sion Croft, of Eddisons, said: “This is a significant industrial site in an enviable location six miles north-west of Leeds city centre. “It could be appropriate for higher value uses, including residential schemes subject to the usual planning consents and local authority policies. Most of the site has been developed for industrial use However, more than 15 acres remains undeveloped and
has been used for agriculture and recreation. “This land is allocated as Green Space or a protected playing pitch within a Special Landscape Area. The accommodation includes modern offices, laboratory, production and warehouse space including a quality high bay warehouse with more than 8,000 pallet spaces. ‘The Calverley Lane site occupies a prime piece of land in an area which has consistently attracted investment,” said Mr Croft. “Even in the tough trading conditions, we expect there to be significant interest. Eddisons is also working with Clariant on the disposal of the firm’s Bawtry Road site to the south of Selby town centre.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AGENTS CONSULTANT ADVISOR •
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TRAFALGAR MILLS LEEDS ROAD HUDDERSFIELD HD2 1YY •
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To Let Modern & Purpose Built Units
Why not use the experts? MB Services have over 20 years experience in letting industrial units Queens Mill Industrial Estate
Queens Mill Road, Huddersfield 1 mile from town centre, easy access to M1/M62 Modern Industrial Units to let Mezzanine floor Unit 19 ....4966 square feet Unit 20 ....5362 square feet
REDUCED RENTAL ON SOME UNITS Trafalgar Mills
Leeds Road, Huddersfield 2nd floor offices to let 4376 square feet Modern hi-tec office unit can be subdivided Broadfield Mills
Brockholes Business Park
New Mill Road, Brockholes 41/2 miles from town centre, easy access to motorway network Unit to let in attractive business park Unit 3.......985 square feet (available March 2009) Unit 11 ....985 square feet Unit 25 ....1170 square feet (available for sub let)
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Old Fieldhouse Lane
Fieldhouse Park
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Contact: Paul Andrew Eddisons 01484 533151
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Alec Michael Michael Steel 0113 248 999
■ AWARD CANDIDATE: the creative arts building at Huddersfield University – pictured during final building work – has been shortlisted for a top regional architecture prize of Huddersfield new Creative Arts building
Future perfect! A FUTURISTIC building at Huddersfield University has been shortlisted for a top property award. The £14m creative arts building at Queensgate is one of 17 impressive structures across West Yorkshire to be nominated for the Pro Yorkshire Awards 2009 run by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. The university building is one of six nominees in the sustainability category of the awards. Its rivals are St Margaret’s parish centre, Horsforth, Leeds; Sharrow Nursery, Junior and Infant School, Sheffield; Shibden Park interpretation centre, Halifax; and eco-friendly housing developments Pad 55 in Pickering and Henley Rise in Rotherham. Other buildings shortlisted in seven categories at the Pro Yorkshire Awards include Leeds City Museum, Leeds Grand Theatre, St James Church in Baildon, The Arthouse in Wakefield, Brewery Wharf in Leeds and Eastbrook Hall in Bradford. The categories cover building conservation, commercial, community benefit, regeneration, design and innovation, tourism and leisure, sustainability and residential. The creative arts building, which opens its doors last September, was
built with the help of a £6.5m funding RICS regional board and chartered package from Lloyds TSB Corporate surveyor with peroperty agent King Sturge in Leeds, said: “We received Markets. It is billed as one of the most strong support for this year’s Awards. “In fact, the Pro Yorkshire Awards exciting and inspirational teaching and research facilities for music and attracted more entries than any of the creative arts courses in the university other RICS regional property sector – incorporating rehearsal space, awards. “It just goes to show that despite the lectures theatres, a 120-seat concert hall, a recording studio, practice challenging economic conditions, rooms, exhibition space and an innov- property professionals in the area are ative, “cube-shaped” electro-acoustic still as committed as ever to the research studio. industry and helping us to recognise It also boasts a rain harvesting and reward the important work carsystem to collect rainwater and use it ried out by chartered surveyors and to flush toilets in the building after it other skilled specialists in our has been filtered. The system includes region.” a huge 45,000-litre capacity water Said Mr Harrop: “All 17 of the storage tank, which has been installed projects short listed in West Yorkshire into an underground pit next to the are a credit to the region and illustrate the important, skilful work that new building. A total of 46 projects from an entry chartered surveyors and property prolist of 76 across Yorkshire have made it fessionals in the area have comto the final shortlist of the region’s pleted. “Their inclusion in the short list property “Oscars” – which recognise inspirational initiatives and develop- puts West Yorkshire on the map as an ments in land, property, construction area that offers world-class, innovative buildings.” and the environment. NNC newsreader Nicholas Owen The regional winners will be entered into the national RICS Awards, where will announce the winners of the Pro they will compete against other lead- Yorkshire Awards at a glittering cereing projects from across the UK. mony held on Friday May 15 at the Colin Harrop, chairman of the Royal Armouries in Leeds.
Figures fall for new housing THE number of homes being built in Yorkshire has dipped sharply – with only 880 started in the last three months, a drop of 74% compared with the same period last year. The Communities and Local Government House Building figures showed that the Government is falling behind in meeting its ambitious house building target of 3m new homes by 2020. Shelter chief executive Adam
Sampson said: “These figures show Government is still not doing any where near enough to kick start the flagging house building industry and get Britain building again” “House building starts are severely declining at a time when more and more people in the Yorkshire and Humberside are in desperate need of a decent home.” Mr Sampson warned: “If the Government continues to sit back
and watch the house building industry completely stall, the effect on our economy, the house building industry and the lives of people who need a home, will be devastating. “There can be no question there is an urgent need to build more homes. Ministers must make a major investment in social housing now before the consequences of our failure to build are too great to ever recover from.”
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
PROPERTY
21
FOCUS
Property expert branching out
■ MILL WORK: Pictured at Folly Hall Mills are (from left) Paul Bailey, director of Jay Tee Group; Andrew Stoddart, managing director of Above & Beyond Architecture; Miles Jessop, former director of Joseph Lumb & Sons Ltd; Rachel Stirling. managing director of ESTL; and Angela Dowd, of Handelsbanken
Developer unveils latest mill scheme DEVELOPERS have launched the second phase of a £6m mill redevelopment scheme – buoyed by the success of the first part of the ambitious programme. The 19th century listed Folly Hall Mills, which stands alongside the river Colne, at Folly Hall, has been converted by Dewsbury-based Jay Tee Group to provide 60,000sq ft of prime office space. The first phase of the scheme, comprising 16,900sq ft of offices, has already been fully let to two Huddersfield companies, ESTL and Above & Beyond. The second phase, providing almost 40,000sq ft of office space, is now under construction – with suites due to be available for occupation from August. The launch was attended by about 150 business leaders, Kirklees councillors and property professionals from across Yorkshire. Last month, the council’s cabinet approved a grant of £400,000 towards the second phase of the develop-
ment. Clr Ken Sims, who was Cabinet member for regeneration at the time, said: “Given the current economic climate, it is heartening that a local development company which now owns the properties – Jay Tee Group – is confident to bring these buildings back into use with the potential of providing more than 150 new jobs. “The development will provide top grade office accommodation – of which there is a shortage and for which there is a demand in Huddersfield.” Training company ESTL has taken 15,000sq ft of office space at Folly Hall – including almost 7,000sq ft in the small mill building, 3,300sq ft in the former boiler house and 3,400sq ft in the main mill. Architects Above & Beyond have taken two floors in the smaller of the two mills – moving from offices at Huddersfield Media Centre. Jay Tee Group said the development would also boast its own cafe bar – Cafe 1844 – which is due to open
in September and occupy 1,600sq ft on the ground floor of the larger mill. Paul Bailey, project director at the Jay Tee Group, said: “The successful completion of phase one is a superb endorsement of the development. “Altogether there is 40,000sq ft of prime office space left in the main mill over five floors, which can be leased or bought. This space can be divided into office units from 2,000sq ft upwards. “We feel they will prove very attractive to professional services firms of all sizes, as well as to the public sector.” Said Mr Bailey: “The interior of Folly Mill is absolutely stunning – with vaulted ceilings, spiral staircases, exposed beams and flooded with natural light. It is an absolutely wonderful place to work. Joint agents for the scheme are Eddisons and Michael Steel 7 Co. Folly Hall, which was built in 1844, stands next to the Grosvenor casino complex. It has 180 car parking spaces and use of a 100 space pay and display car park nearby.
Carter Jonas gets a new look A PROPERTY agency with offices in Huddersfield has announced a massive re-branding exercise. Carter Jonas, which has a branch at Slaithwaite, has adopted a new logo, corporate identity and website.
Tony Wright, a Yorkshire-based partner, said: “We are all very excited about the re-brand. I think our clients will be very pleased when they see our new look. “We’ve also launched a new website to showcase the know-
ledge of our many proper ty experts across the UK and allow users to quickly and simply search for residential, commercial and rural property across the north of England – and indeed the entire country.”
A FORMER officer at Kirklees Council’s estates department has set up his own property consultancy. Dave Wood, who has 21 years experience in the sector, has fofrmed Wood Strategic Property Consultancy to help businesses reduce their property costs by identifying buildings that are surplus to requirements, review rents and leases and cut their rateas bills. Said Mr Wood: “Property is one of the biggest costs for most businesses after staffing expenses. If businesses can reduce their property costs it helps them stay in business.” Mr Wood, who is based in Almondbury, said he was focusing his attentions on West Yorkshire. He was responsible for the estates department at Kirklees until March last year when he left to set up his own consultancy. A chartered surveyor, he joined the council as a valuer and worked his way up the organisation. He has been involved in many of the major development schemes of the past 20 years, including the Sainsbury’s Shorehead store, the McAlpine Stadium – now the Galpharm – and the Leeds Road Retail Park. Before joining Kirklees, he worked in private practice in Leeds for two-and-a-half years in the non-residential property sector covering stra-
■ AUTHORITY: Dave Wood, managing director of Wood Strategic Property Consultants
tegic estate management. Mr Wood said property issues became even more during times of recession. “Businesses are more likely to be scaling down and find themselves with a big site and surplus property,” he said. “Others might be sitting on proper ties tha t have reached the end of their useful life or on land they want to develop. “And as we come out of recession, there will be new start-ups looking for properties as well as small firms who might need another unit or shop premises.
Latest lettings boost DTZ A RAFT of lettings have been announced at Albion Park in Leeds. REIT Asset Management, advised by DTZ, has let three industrial units to Sanctuary Bathrooms, Total Trade Frames and Carousel Envelopes. The deals follow four other
significant deals at this well established industrial park. Other recent new occupiers include Morfitts, Underworld Ltd and Warehouse Systems Ltd. Philip Caspell, senior surveyor at DTZ, said: “The recent spate of lettings has brought occupancy levels to 90%.” ,
22
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
014 8 4 4 3 2 0 4 3
Contact Jason Metcalfe or Mark Hanson
01484 432043 The Old Gatehouse 68 New North Road
Offices
Offices
Offices
Offices
Ripponden Business Park Oldham Road Ripponden
Brig Royd Surgery Brig Royd Ripponden
Standard House Half Moon Street Huddersfield
Marten House St Andrews Road Huddersfield
FOR SALE/TO LET
FOR SALE
TO LET
TO LET
780 to 1,524 sq ft
2,764 sq ft
1,483 sq ft
632 sq ft
Brand new self contained offices Finished to a high specification Car parking and ease of access to junction 22 M62
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First floor office suite Newly refurbished with DDA lift access Central location close to all amenities
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Good quality office suite Adjacent to Aspley Marina Rental incentives available
Huddersfield HD1 5NE
23
April, 2009
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
TOWN TALK
Agency passes the test
Sean Jarvis
Sponsors deal sealed
Y now I hope all our fans and the local B business community have noticed that we have entered into a new and excit-
ing sponsorship agreement with Thornton and Ross. I am delighted with the agreement on a number of fronts. Firstly, it is great to have one of the region’s largest and most respected employers supporting the club but also to be working with such an international brand is equally important. I am honoured to welcome them to Huddersfield Town’s “growing family”. In fact, over the past six months of negotiations I have got to know the team at Thornton and Ross very well and its clear they have a lot of synergy with ourselves including a fantastic family organisation built on a great history. They are great people to work with and of course we look forward to a long lasting relationship. I would also like to use my notes to thank current sponsor Casino Red for their support over the past couple of years and wish them well for the future. To that note, we are still in talks with Casino Red and hopeful that they continue to support the club, which I am sure they will. Over the coming weeks, I would also urge people to monitor the official website (www.htafc.com) and Kirklees Business News as we will have a number of further sponsorship announcements coming up. I am sure those who attended the Centenary Legends Dinner will agree it was a great evening. To hear stories from the likes of Worthington, Sidebottom, Lillis, Cowan, Ellam, Hutt et al was fantastic. What’s more to have the pleasure of meeting the legendary Ray Wilson was also a great honour and having over 300 fans gather in the room on a Monday night was also a great sight. Another event that was hugely successful was our second Business Forum held in association with business partners Chadwick Lawrence. We had about 50 businesses come along to the stadium before the Colchester game and listen to Steve Black and Mark Bradley, a customer services expert. The whole event was superb with some valuable lessons including motivation, dealing with customers and employment law (which was delivered by Neil Wilson of Chadwick Lawrence). I As some of our supporters will know, I attended the Stockport game, on the terraces, having previously gone to the North West HTSA launch. The launch was great with more than 100 fans asking myself, Dean Hoyle and Nigel Clibbens some very topical questions. My congratulations go to Steve King and the rest of the HTSA team that made it a great event. Finally for my column this month, I would like to highlight some significant dates of announcements that are coming up. On Saturday, March 21, we will be revealing the new away kit – at the stadium on the big screen. This will be something a little different for us but worth coming to see. Then at the end of March we will announce our new home kit sponsor, shortly followed by revealing the home kit. A few days later we will be able to reveal the new season ticket prices. So as you can see some interesting times ahead. If you want to be a part of it give me a call on 01484 484193. Sean Jarvis is director of business development at Huddersfield Town
Warm outlook
A COMPANY making radiators has launched two new products thanks to funding from Birstall-based Cattles Invoice Finance. The new RadArt and RadGlass ranges from Leeds-based Roco (Europe) Ltd combine stunning artwork with contemporary design to make radiators a personalised feature in the home.
Despite the credit crunch, sales have remained strong for Roco’s elegant and innovative radiators and the newly formed company is looking forward to the future. Managing director David Mankin originally set up the company to find his own route to market and encourage creativity in radiator design. Expansion into Europe is his
next goal – and talks have already been completed with Turkish wholesalers to distribute the products. Negotiations are now under way with French and Italian distributors. Jamie Hunt (top), regional manager of Cattles Invoice Finance, is pictured with Mr Mankin at the Radstore showroom in Leeds.
A MARKETING agency has puts its rugby union knowledge to the test. Wakefield-based Nourish has completed a contract at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium to promote hospitality packages for the RBS 6 Nation Championship. The agency was commissioned by the home of Welsh rugby to produce a creative campaign incorporating adverts and printed materials to promote the tournament and its new offering – the Ultimate Bootroom Experience. The marketing team at the stadium wanted to make people aware of the amazing opportunity they were offering to watch preparations for the match – including the chance to get up “close and personal” with the hallowed ground itself. Emma Rogers, hospitality sales manager for Millennium Stadium, said: “Working with the team at Nourish on the campaign for the RBS 6 Nations has been great. They understood exactly what we needed and delivered, even on some really tight deadlines.“ The Bootroom Experience gives rugby fans the opportunity to enjoy a glass of champagne behind the posts the evening before one of two key matches in the championship and share a three-course meal with a celebrity from the world of rugby.
Companies value talent COMPANIES are keen to keep hold of their talented staff – despite the impact of the recession. A survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development found that three-quarters of firms were not allowing the economic climate to affect their strategy when it came to retaining top talent. Among the 26% that had changed their policy, almost one in five were placing more emphasis – not less – on identifying, developing and retaining talent. Some 55% of the 705 firms polled said
they were working to develop more talent in-house while 45% were focusing on “essential” development. A quarter of respondents said they had been forced to reduce the scale of their operations – but had consciously preserved key talent throughout this process. Just 3% of those firms “downsizing” were having to let go of key talent, while 11% were taking the opportunity to recruit talent discarded by competitors. CIPD adviser Claire McCartney said: “It is essential that organisations avoid knee-jerk reactions and cost-cutting in the
very areas that will make the biggest difference. “Now is not the time to halt employee development, nor is it the time to postpone or scale back talent management strategies. However, more cost-effective solutions need to be found as return on investment will come under greater scrutiny. “Managing, developing and motivating talented employees is even more important because it is the one thing that can differentiate organisations and ensure that they thrive in the long term.”
WE BRING BUSINESS FACE TO FACE WITH BUSINESS
Staff take share of big bonus
Red ‘alert’ for retail group STAFF at two Huddersfield stores showed their support for charity by “going into the red”. Employees at DIY store Homebase and catalogue shop Argos stores wore a variety of red outfits as part of national Wear Red to Work Day. Solomon Antwi (centre), of Homebase, is shown with Rahel Gojam, of Argos, and James Davies, of Homebase. The event marked the start of the British Heart Foundation’s Red for
Heart campaign, which takes place throughout National Heart Month in February. H o m e b a s e a n d A r go s s t o r e s throughout the UK are working to raise £2m over the next 18 months with a variety of fundraising events and activities. The two retailers are part of Home Retail Group, which has the British Heart Foundation as its charity partner. So far, the partnership has raised
more than £750,000 to help the BHF put more defibrillators in communities across the UK. The Red for Heart campaign encourages people to “go red” for their loved ones in any way they choose and raise vital funds to fight the UK’s biggest killer – heart and circulatory disease. Mary Jones, acting store manager of Homebase at Leeds Road, said: “We are thrilled to be taking part in the BHF’s national campaign to celebrate National Heart Month.”
MORE than 500 workers at a Huddersfield supermarket are sharing in a record £22m bonus pay-out. The 545 employees at Asda’s Bradford Road store received hundreds of pounds extra in their February pay packets after hitting targets for sales and customer service. Staff at the Huddersfield store achieved 95% of their allotted targets – one of the best performances in the company. Nationally, 133,000 Asda store and depot workers are sharing the £22m bonus pot. The pay-out is shared among employees with more than six months service at the Leeds-based firm’s 358 stores and 23 depots across the UK. For the third year running, more than 44,000 Asda employees from 130 stores and 16 depots nationwide exceeded their performance targets – entitling them to pocket the full bonus entitlement. Workers in stores reaching
a “super bonus” threshold of 20% above target get up to £420 each. This year’s average bonus equates to £269 for a full-time Asda store colleague or £177 part time. A full time employee earning the 100% bonus gets a pay-out of £350. The annual perfor mance-related bonus scheme was first introduced in 1999 after Asda was acquired by US-based retailing giant Wal-Mart. The total paid to colleagues across the chain has now reached more than £129m. This year’s record bonus payments reflect ASDA’s performance in 2008. The company is due to report its fourth quarter trading figures next Tuesday. Asda director Caroline Massingham praised the “hard work and dedication” of store and depot staff, adding: “Once again they have helped us deliver outstanding value and customer service.”
Fleet management group joins elite list Redundancy Advice Services. Call Neil Wilson on 01484 519 999
www.chadwicklawrence.co.uk
Huddersfield | Leeds | Wakefield | Halifax | Dewsbury
VEHICLE fleet management group FMG Support has been ranked among Britain’s elite businesses. The company, based at Bradley Mills, is 97th in the 2009 Sunday Times Deloitte Buyout Track 100. The league table ranks British private equity-backed companies with the fastest-growing profits to September, 2008. Nearly a third of the 100 companies listed have their headquarters in London.
FMG Support is one of 13 companies based in north-east England to feature. The company secured a £7m investment from Spirit Capital in March last year to deliver its ambitious growth plans. Since the investment, FMG Support has won heavyweight contracts with Lloyds TSB Autolease and the Highways Agency. Nick Brown, chief executive at FMG Support, said: “We have enjoyed an immensely successful 12 months and have
already fulfilled several major ambitions. “Our contract wins reflect our continued focus on innovation and people development, which is enabling FMG Support to become increasingly recognised at a national level.” Craig Hopwood, of Spirit Capital, said: “This listing represents a significant milestone for FMG Support and we are pleased to continue to support the team throughout its future developments.”
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