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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Happy to play the numbers game! A NEW service has been launched to help crunch the numbers for small owner-managed businesses in Kirklees. Accounts Online will use the latest developments in “cloud computing” after signing a reseller agreement with another locally-based firm, Liquid Accounts, a leading provider of online accounting software. This will allow secure access to accounting records from any location with broadband internet access. The launch of Accounts Online has been supported by FDYL, a supplier of part-time finance director support and management accounting services to smaller firms across Yorkshire. FDYL associate Graham Lawley has overseen the development project and has now taken up the role of managing director for the new business.
Said Mr Lawley: “We’re happy to provide a fully outsourced solution or to work hand in hand with a company’s in-house finance team. “The use of Liquid Accounts is a key feature of our business model and allows our team to review information with clients from different locations at the same time, adding a new dimension to the level of support we can offer.” Accounts Online has also recruited sales manager Kevin Banks, who has wide-ranging experience in the financial services sector, including branch management positions with the Woolwich. He said: “I’m very excited ab o u t t h e p ro s p e c t s fo r Accounts Online. “I believe that we can make a real difference in the smaller SME sector, especially in the current climate.”
It’s down on paper PAPER manufacturer Disposables UK has gained a top European environmental award. The Meltham-based company has met the requirements of the EU Eco-label scheme, which was set up in 1992 to encourage firms to market products and services that are kinder to the environment.
● Full story - Page 4
■ CLOUD CROWD: Liquid Accounts Ltd operations director Richard Holmes (left) and sales director Darren Garland (second left) with Accounts Online UK Ltd's managing director Graham Lawley (second right) and sales manager Kevin Banks
Golf supplier swings in with record revenues A GOLF retailer based in Huddersfield is on the fairway after posting record results. Direct Golf UK, which has its registered office at Milnsbridge, said it had increased like-for-like revenue and profits for the year to September, 2009. While sales were flat on the high street, online revenues were up “signi-
INSIDE
ficantly” on the previous 12 months following investment in staff and systems to price its products competitively and speed up deliveries to customers. Chairman John Andrew said: “Our continued commitment to offer world class customer service, great prices with super-fast delivery has been very popular with our customers and seen
us take market share from our competitors in a very tough market place. “We have achieved this through increasing the product range and availability, controlling costs, improving sourcing and making efficiencies where possible. “My experienced and dedicated employees have shown once again that any business that focuses on keeping its
customers happy can succeed even in the toughest of times.’” The company plans to add to its 12 stores over the next few years. Managing director Neil Bell said: “To achieve growth in the retail market during a recession is nothing short of outstanding. While it is impossible to predict the year ahead, we remain extremely positive about the future.”
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Charity call-up TELECOMS firm Talkative Ltd has joined forces with Overgate Hospice to develop a recycling partnership for old mobile phones. The firm is also becoming a corporate member of the Elland-based hospice.
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Cadbury rejects ‘derisory’ Kraft bid CONFECTIONERY group Cadbury has branded as “derisory” a £9.8bn hostile takeover offer from US food giant Kraft. The company behind brands including Dairylea and Kenco coffee appealed directly to Cadbury’s investors after its initial approach was rejected by the board in September. But Kraft said it was not prepared to improve the terms of its cash-and-shares offer – which is now lower than two months ago due to falls in the Kraft share price. Cadbury chairman Roger Carr said: “The board has emphatically rejected this derisory offer and has strengthened its resolve to ensure the true value of Cadbury is fully understood by all.” He added: “Kraft’s offer does not come remotely close to reflecting the
true value of our company.” Kraft disappointed with weak third-quarter results last week -–downgrading revenue guidance and hitting its shares. This has sent the value of the firm's offer down from 745p in September to 717p today. Mr Carr said: “The repetition of a proposal which is now of less value and lower than the current Cadbury share price does not make it any more attractive.” Cadbury, which makes Dairy Milk and other chocolate bars, will contact shareholders shortly with a defence document setting out why it should remain as a standalone business. Mr Carr added that a merger with Kraft represented the “unattractive prospect” of being absorbed into the US firm’s “low growth conglomerate busi-
ness model”. Kraft, which also owns Oreos biscuits and Toblerone chocolate, tabled its offer in reaction to a 5pm “put up or shut up” deadline imposed by the City’s Takeover Panel. It now has 28 days to send out its offer document to Cadbury shareholders. The US firm said: “We believe that our proposal offers the best immediate and long-term value for Cadbury’s shareholders and for the company itself compared with any other option currently available, including Cadbury remaining independent.” Kraft believes it makes a “unique fit” with Cadbury and can deliver annual cost savings of £373m by creating a “global powerhouse” of leading confectionery and snack brands.
SECURITY group G4S forecast a strong performance next year after operating profits rose by 12% in the first nine months of 2009. The company, which provides services ranging from cash transport to facilities management, said government and new markets had boosted the business at a time of slightly slower growth in commercial security services. It said revenues were ahead by 9% at constant exchange rates in the period to the end of September. Margins improved by 0.2%. Recent contracts have included running two immigration detention centres for the UK Border Agency. And an electronic monitoring contract worth £40m a year has been extended for a further two years.
■ BLOCKED: Cadbury has rejected a hostile bid from Kraft
Revenues fall for Aer Lingus
Public sector lifts Kier
EMBATTLED airline Aer Lingus reported a further slide in revenues – but said performance was “stabilising” after efforts to cut aircraft numbers and capacity. The Dublin-based carrier, which last month unveiled plans to cut a fifth of its workforce, said it was removing another plane from its long-haul service to trim winter and summer 2010 capacity further. Revenues fell by 9.7% year on year in the third quarter, although the number of passengers rose by 7% and the group said it was carrying more passengers per plane. Fares plunged by 17.6% on average in the three months to Septem-
CONSTRUCTION and housebuilding firm Kier said a raft of public sector work was helping it ride out recession after a “good start” to its financial year. Since July, the company has landed £250m in work under the Building Schools for the Future scheme well as £70m in health projects. The firm said that the private housing market had “stabilised” while its fast-growing support services business has a “long list of potential new contracts”. Bedfordshire-based Kier’s strong start comes despite a £17.9m fine from the Office of Fair Trading for
ber 30 as the airline struggled due to the consumer spending slump. But Aer Lingus said the pace of decline in fares had levelled off and an 8.5% hike in sales per passenger on extra charges for short haul flights, such as checked-in baggage and advanced seat booking, also helped. Chief executive Christoph Mueller, who joined in September, is leading a major overhaul and cost-cutting drive to steer the firm back to profit. About 676 staff are being released and Aer Lingus is changing its pension arrangements under the first phase of his turnaround plan.
Secure performer
anti-competitive practices – the largest individual penalty among fines totalling £129.5m for 103 firms. Kier is considering contesting the decision and has until November 22 to lodge its appeal. Kier has also pre-qualified for early contracts on the Crossrail east-west London rail link and is bidding for similar work in Hong Kong. Keir’s housebuilding business has secured almost three-quarters of its planned sales for the year in completions and orders so far. But it said the shortage of mortgages meant the housing marketing remained “fragile”.
Losses reduced STORAGE firm Lok’nStore has posted narrower annual losses. The group, whose fortunes are largely tied to the housing market, said occupation levels rose by nearly 2% in the year to July 31. Lok’nStore reported annual pre-tax losses of £656,000 – an improvement of 12% on losses seen a year earlier.
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £22.40 +0.24 Gannett 643.95 +17.28 Hess Corp £34.76 +0.82 Motors Liquidation 44.68 Wal-Mart Stores £30.72 +0.19 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE BAE Systems 3205/8 +27/8 Rolls-Royce Gp 469 +11/2 1 Smiths Grp 947 /4 +163/4 VT Group 5661/2 +11/2 AIM Brady Plc 691/2 Dawson Intl 23/8 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 115 +3 BANKS Barclays 3443/4 +81/4 HSBC 693 +95/8 Lloyds Banking Gp 853/4 +1 Ryl Scotland 393/4 +25/8 3 Stan Chart 1616 /4 +93/4 BEVERAGES Diageo 10131/2 +101/2 SABMiller 1659 +13 CHEMICALS Croda 7971/4 +63/4 Delta 1613/8 +13/8 7 Elementis 98 60 /8 -5/8 Johnsn Mat 15081/2 +271/2 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2675/8 +71/4 Costain 285/8 +11/8 ELECTRICITY Drax Grp 462 -27/8 1
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Scottish & Sthrn 1077 +2 Energy ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Chloride 1753/4 +97/8 Invensys 303 +63/8 Laird 1273/4 +33/4 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 3111/4 +43/4 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 1383/4 +1 -11/4 C&W 1373/4 Colt Telecom 1251/8 +15/8 KCOM 401/2 +1/4 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS Morrison W 2863/4 +11/4 Sainsbury 3315/8 +1/8 1 Tesco 416 /2 -11/2 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 8173/4 +11/4 Cadbury 7583/4 +3/4 Nth Foods 651/8 +11/8 Tate Lyle 4693/4 +51/4 Unilever 18061/2 +111/2 1 Uniq 38 /8 +1/8 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 2421/4 +1 +21/2 National Grid 6141/2 1 Pennon Grp 449 /2 +43/8 Severn 9461/2 +1 1 +5/8 United Utils 444 /2 GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 2771/2 +61/4 ICAP 4161/2 +9 1 +20 London StockExch 917 /2 1 +103/4 Man Group 340 /4 Provident Financial 9343/4 +83/4
Schroders NV 934 +171/2 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS Avon Rbbr 821/2 Cooksn Grp 3951/4 +221/4 REXAM 2901/2 +51/8 GENERAL RETAILERS Ashley L 16 +1/4 DSG International 323/4 +3/8 Home Retail 310 +7/8 Inchcape 301/8 +5/8 Kingfisher 2405/8 +53/4 3 M&S 374 /4 +71/4 Mothercare 6123/4 +61/4 Next 19681/2 -61/2 3 WH Smith 512 /4 +11/4 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 5511/4 +151/4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 1161/2 -1/2 Barrat Dev 1361/4 -21/2 3 Persimmon 424 /4 -17/8 Reckitt Benckiser £301/2 +1/4 7 Taylor Wimpey 41 /8 +1/4 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING Charter 734 +27 +61 IMI 5203/4 Man Brnze 139 -2 INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 1675/8 +71/2 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BBA Aviation 1573/4 -17/8 Forth Ports 1145 -43 LIFE INSURANCE Aviva 4043/4 +115/8 Lgl & Gen 833/8 +31/2 1
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6051/4 +271/4 957/8 -1/8 2211/8 +81/8 MEDIA BSkyB 5481/4 +13/4 Chrysalis 100 D Mail Tst 4281/4 +5 ITV 49 7 Johnston Press 26 /8 -3/8 Pearson 8521/2 +8 3 Reed Elsevier 481 /8 +81/8 STV Group 691/4 +3/4 Trinity Mirror 165 +31/2 Utd Business 482 +33/8 UTV 1081/2 +1 3 WPP 567 /4 -1/4 Yell Group 481/4 +41/8 MINING Anglo American £247/8 +1 Antofagasta 8901/4 +363/4 BHP Billiton 1776 +721/2 Eurasian Natural 9241/2 +161/2 Res Fresnillo 8841/4 +453/4 Kazakhmys 1292 +79 Lonmin 1628 +63 5 Rio Tinto £30 /8 +11/2 VEDANTA £233/4 +11/8 RESOURCES 1 Xstrata 1012 /2 +50 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES Inmarsat 6091/4 +143/4 Vodafone Group 1377/8 +21/8 NONLIFE INSURANCE Admiral Grp 10461/2 +111/2 RSA Insurance Gp 1221/2 +3/8 OIL & GAS PRODUCERS Prudential Resolution Standard Life
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Local shares Carclo Chapelthorpe Instore Marshalls National Grid Rensburg Sheppards Weir Gp
991/2 123/4 45/8 94 6141/2 670 726
+11/4 +21/2 +10 +121/2
FTSE closed at
5235.1 Up 92.4 1
BP 595 +11 /8 Cairn Energy £287/8 +7/8 Norsk Hdro 416 +67/8 Royal Dutch Shell A 1843 +351/2 Royal Dutch Shell B 17971/4 +423/4 Total £383/8 +3/4 Tullow Oil 1273 +37 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Petrofac 10201/2 +281/2 Wood Group 3363/8 +123/4 PERSONAL GOODS Burberry 5911/2 +10 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £271/4 +3/8 Axis-Shield 4033/4 -71/4 GlaxoSmithK XD 61/2 Shire 11311/2 +361/2
Brit Land 4661/4 +81/8 DTZ Hldgs 751/2 -21/2 Hamrsn 4231/4 +83/4 1 Land Secs 695 /2 +9 SEGRO 346 +1/4 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Autonomy Corp 1405 +15 +7/8 Dimension Data 733/4 7 Logica 123 /8 -1/4 Misys 217 +21/4 1 Sage Group 219 /2 +7/8 SUPPORT SERVICES AMEC 8701/2 +18 +73/4 Bunzl 6543/4 Capita 7681/4 +11/4 Davis Service 418 -5 Group De La Rue 9893/4 +33/4 Electrocomp 158 -1/8 Experian 5841/4 +11/4 G4S 251 -17/8 Hays 1011/2 +11/4 Homeserve 1597 -3 Menzies J 318 -13/4 Rentokil 1051/8 +1/8 Smiths News 1193/8 +37/8 Wolseley 12731/2 +161/2 IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs 1545/8 +3 Psion 115 +2 5 +7/8 Spirent Comms 93 /8 TOBACCO Br Am Tob 19581/2 -1/2 Imperial Tobacco 18331/2 +101/2 LEISURE & HOTELS Arriva 4511/4 +5/8 Brit Airways 1981/4 -1/2 1
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Compass Grp easyJet Enterprise Inns FirstGroup Go-Ahead Greene King Intercontl Htls Ladbrokes Mitchells & Butlers Natl Express PartyGaming Rank Org Stagecoach Group TUI Travel Whitbread
4111/8 3741/2 1211/2 3953/4 13771/2 4173/4 8423/4 1245/8 2497/8 3371/2 2341/2 855/8 1413/4 2451/4 12441/2
+33/4 +43/4 +3/8 +33/8 -131/2 +43/4 +181/4 -11/2 +31/4 +71/2 +31/2 +1/8 -11/4 +4 +111/2
FTSE 100
INDEX 5221.32
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TOURIST RATES Tourists going abroad can expect the following rates for sterling: Australia...................... 1.71 dollars Bangladesh................. 109.28 taka Brazil.............................. 2.57 reals Canada....................... 1.70 dollars China ........................... 10.22 yuan Czech Republic ...... 26.36 korunas Denmark....................... 7.92 krone Euro............................... 1.07 euro Hong Kong................ 12.32 dollars Hungary................... 274.26 forints India.......................... 68.67 rupees Japan........................... 143.79 yen Mexico ....................... 19.95 pesos New Zealand .............. 2.12 dollars Norway ......................... 8.99 krone Pakistan.................. 131.27 rupees Philippines ................. 67.25 pesos South Africa.................. 11.63 rand South Korea.............. 1690.00 won Sri Lanka ................ 181.19 rupees Sweden....................... 11.03 krona Switzerland.................. 1.61 francs Taiwan ...................... 47.33 dollars Turkey....................... 2.32 new lira USA ............................ 1.60 dollars
Due to technical difficulties at the Stock Exchange, some of the share prices quoted may not be accurate
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS BUYING British could be the best way to kick-start the country’s recovery. That’s the view of Simon Bodsworth, marketing and development manager at Slaithwaite-based furniture firm Daval. “We should be making a conscious decision to buy British,” says Simon. “It’s down to everyone in their everyday purchasing decisions – from furniture to suits to cars. The more we buy British the quicker we will be out of recession and on the road to recovery. “As a company, we have made an active decision over the past few years to buy from more British suppliers. “A lot of the furniture industry is based in Germany and Italy, but where possible we try to opt for British suppliers. It makes sense in terms of security of supply and in terms of building good working relationships to have suppliers closer to hand. “You still have to make a commercially-sensible decision, but more and more companies are waking up to this way of thinking.” In terms of his own industry, Simon is in no doubt about the advantages of being patriotic. “To start with, buying British, as opposed to continental fitted furniture brands, would ensure our home-grown industry not only continues to produce world-class products, but maintains the innovation drive we’ve seen in recent years within the UK market – making sure we come out of this recession stronger than ever. “But it’s the retailer, however, that could potentially reap some of the biggest rewards. Yes, they would obviously benefit from swift and efficient service from some of the UK’s best furniture makers, but they would also improve their margins simply by focusing on making their pounds go further and not chucking Euros down the economic drain. “Germany might have brought us innovation beyond our wildest dreams in the past – and the Italian’s gave us a lesson in style yesteryear. But that was then. With the Euro against us, now is the perfect time to turn our sights to home-grown
profile
Let’s show British is best talent, while helping pull this country out of recession by pouring money back in and saving jobs to boot. “What’s more consumers are demanding British. Spurred on by the economic downturn, and reinforced by the likes of Dom Jolly’s latest TV project, Made In Britain – where he is set to trade in all his ‘foreign’ goods for equal British-made alternatives – spending habits are continuing to change drastically. “Consumers are more conscious about where their products are coming from, but they’re also more savvy about design and individuality.” Simon says environmental issues also play a part. “The government says businesses have a major role to play in helping protect and enhance the environment,” says Simon. “Companies are obliged to make commitments to reduce their carbon footprint. So the big ships from abroad must halt and let the trucks on Britain’s roads continue to drive the economy back to where it belongs.” Simon has played a key part in the development of the family firm since joining the company at its Spa Field Mills premises five years ago. But it was not always
what he had planned. Following school and college, Simon gained a degree in business studies at Sheffield Hallam University and undertook a one-year placement with a company in Hexham, which he discovered was a supplier to Daval. “I was able to develop my business skills and marketing skills as well as getting involved in the design side of things,” he recalls. “Everything just seemed to click into place. There was an opening at Daval for someone to work in marketing and I seized the opportunity with both hands.” Simon’s father, David, is chairman of the company – which he established in 1977 – while Simon’s uncles Tony and Alan are operations director and human resources manager respectively. Simon says that being the son of the boss doesn’t mean he gets a cushy time. “You are constantly trying to prove yourself,” he says. “People think you get your breaks because you are a family member, but you are actually working twice as hard to show that is not the case.” It does have some advantages, however. “A lot of our independent retailers are also family businesses and that helps them relate to us. They are often a father and son team – and
Page 3 Simon Bodsworth Role: Marketing and development manager Age: 26 Family: Father David, mother Alyson, brothers Paul and James Holidays: Ski-ing in the Swiss Alps and relaxing in Tenerife Car: Audi TT First job: Making drawer boxes for Daval during the summer holiday Best thing about job: Flexibility, no two days are the same Worst thing about job: None Business tip: Change is the only constant, so embrace it
they see us as bigger versions of themselves.” Says Simon: “Being a member of the family, I have done everything from sweeping up to making the tea to helping develop out in-house software system, Option-I, which handles all aspects of a customer’s order.” The system allows Daval’s customers – independent furniture retailers – to specify a much wider range of colours, styles and finishes when they select the company’s fitted bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms and home office furniture. The new system enables Daval to meet demand for tailor-made and one-off furniture quickly and put the firm at the forefront of the industry. It also means the company can operate “just in time” – reducing the need to hold large stocks. “More people want choice and individuality,” says Simon. “That’s where the independents come into their own.” Away from work, Simon’s time is taken up with his two horses. “The first time I sat on a horse was when I was two years old,” he says. “My father used to ride, so it must be in the blood. “I go eventing and I’d
reached quite a high level before I broke off to go to university.” Simon has competed in events at venues such as Bishop Burton and Stoneleigh. “I’m up at 6.30 every morning mucking out,” he says. “So I’ve already done a couple of hours work before I event get to the office!”
HENRYK ZIENTEK
Daval Work: Manufacturing kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture Employs: 70 Sites: Spa Field Mills, Slaithwaite Phone 01484 848500 Email: enquiries@ daval-furniture.co.uk
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KIRKLEES BUSIN
Swift work by firm A FIRM celebrating 40 years in business provided a surprise for one of its first-ever customers. Lockwood-based Swift Blinds and Curtains Ltd replaced two plain Venetian blinds it originally supplied 40 years ago to Holmfirth woman Gladys Chaplin. Joint managing director Nick Swift was on hand to present the replacement and said: “Gladys contacted us about replacing the blinds and we thought it would be a nice touch to replace them free of charge. “We were delighted to see that the blinds we supplied 40 years ago were still working well and we were very pleased with the quality of the product. They have certainly served their purpose.” Swift Blinds and Curtains Ltd manufac-
tures and retails products for business and domestic users as well as supplying blinds to the trade nationwide. It manufactures its blinds at Broadfield Mills, Albert Street and also operates a showroom nearby at Lockwood Road. Swift has 50 employees and has become a prominent part of the local community and a well-known name in the town. Swift sales director Mr David Roebuck says : “A lot of people who know us for our domestic business don’t realise we undertake contract work and local authority work as well. Similarly, people who deal with our contract operation don’t realise we are in the domestic market.” However, Swift is enjoying success – with showroom sales up by 15% so far this year.
Rebuilding trust EMPLOYERS will have to find new ways of winning over their workers as a result of the recession. A report by accountancy firm PricewaterhouseCoopers said that pay and promotion freezes, changes to pension schemes, cuts in recruitment and slashed training budgets had eroded the bonds of trust between some employers and their employees. In contrast, other organisations had excelled at doing more with less to
engage and develop their employees in an unstable employment landscape. Graham Ward-Thompson, Yorkshire and Humber partner for human resource services at PwC, said: “As the long-term impact of ‘people’ decisions taken during the downturn begins to be felt, the winners and losers of the war for talent are starting to be revealed – with those who focus on investment and employee engagement emerging as clear leaders.”
Tom’s got a hot idea
■ PRESENT SURPRISE: Gladys Chaplin, of Holmfirth, with Nick Swift, of Swift Blinds, and her replacement venetian blinds which the Lockwood company supplied after her 40-year-old original blinds were some of the first fitted by the company
Agency alert EMPLOYER’S BRIEF Neil Wilson
PPORTUNITIES for permanO ent employment in many industries across the UK are very
scarce at the moment. Recent unemployment levels for the UK stand at 7.9% for the last quarter – with the Yorkshire region faring significantly worse than the national average. For those seeking paid work, agency work can provide a short-term answer to an individual’s unemployment. Currently, agency (or “temporary”) workers do not automatically receive the same rights or statutory protection that an employee would benefit from. Under the Working Time Regulations, agency workers are entitled to benefits such as paid holiday and minimum rest periods and workers are also protected by the national minimum wage regulations. Currently, however, there is no provision in UK legislation for equal treatment for agency workers. There is nothing to stop an employer giving agency workers much less favourable terms than its full-time workforce. Perhaps this, in part, is why agency workers are so appealing to a company. If there is short-term demand for workers, why not take on an agency worker; there is no need for an employment contract, there is no liability for dismissal of the worker and the terms can differ from the full time employees? There is a cloud on the horizon for businesses, however, and once again it has emerged from the European Union. As a result of the recently enacted Agency Workers Directive, the UK is now required to implement this by way of Regulations by December, 2011. These Regulations will allow agency
workers who have worked with the same company for a 12-week period to benefit from the same rights and equal treatment as the permanent employees. “Equal treatment” refers to the same rates of basic pay, annual leave entitlements, overtime rates, break entitlements, participation in any bonus or commission schemes and any other additional benefits that are enjoyed by permanent employees under their contract of employment. So what effect will this have on the future of agency workers? The response from businesses is, on the whole, far from optimistic. According to recent research, 81% of 134 organisations questioned opposed the Directive. Some 75% agree that equal rights should be awarded to agency workers, but after 26 weeks instead of 12. It is estimated that up to 50,000 agency workers could be at risk of losing temporary work, with up to 250 recruitment agencies facing extinction. Many businesses are already looking at creative ways of avoiding the Directive. There is a growing trend of companies creating their own “internal agency” that acts as a “relief bank of workers”. The business would have a large list of individuals who will work on an ‘as and when’ basis (commonly known as ‘casuals’) and the business will avoid having to use employment agencies, therefore. Further consultation is expected on how the Directive will be implemented, but it is surely only a matter of time before agency workers are given the protection that will no doubt make them a less attractive proposition to many businesses.
Neil Wilson is an employment lawyer at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors
A BRIGHOUSE man has come up with a hot idea for Christmas. Now 33-year-old entrepreneur Tom Stevenson is hoping his business savvy will win him an international award. Tom is taking part in website Alibaba.com’s Global Startup Challenge – an international trading competition that rewards the winner with a £10,000 business grant. Tom promises to make the competition sizzle with his plans to make the humble barbecue an integral part of Christmas this year. Having enjoyed two barbecued turkeys last year as part of his festive feast, Tom is convinced he can elevate the summer favourite to a year-round culinary delight! With hints on holding a successful barbecue and exciting accessories available from his aptly named website – www.baregrills.co.uk – Tom believes he’s onto a red-hot chargrilled winner! Judges were impressed with Tom’s “obvious flair for business” and his “thorough understanding” of the online market he intends to target with his business plan. Tom is now forging partnerships with suppliers via Alibaba.com and using their £1,000 of start-up cash to purchase his wares. He is using features on the Alibaba.com website – including forums offering guidance from experienced business owners and traders as well as calling on the support and advice of the public who will be voting to decide which start up business will take home £10,000. Maggie Choo, a director of Alibaba.com, said: “We received a huge response of pitches from confident, motivated budding entrepreneurs in Yorkshire to participate in the Global Startup Challenge. “With a capability to connect more than 9m companies across 240 countries and regions worldwide, 420,000 UK businesses are already successfully trading across the Alibaba.com platform. “The Global Startup Challenge is all about demonstrating that you no longer need buckets of cash or extensive trading experience to start a global business.” The trading competition runs until January with the public able to vote for their favourite business at any point of the competition online at www.globalstartupchallange.co.uk. Founded in China in 1999, Alibaba.com listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange in 2006. It is billed as the premier online marketplace for small and medium-size companies around the world to identify potential trading partners and interact with each other to conduct business online.
NESS NEWS Proof on paper for green firm
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PAPER manufacturer Disposables UK has secured a prestigious European environmental award. The Meltham-based company has met the requirements of the EU Eco-label scheme, a voluntary scheme set up in 1992 to encourage businesses to market products and services that are kinder to the environment. Products and services awarded the Eco-label carry the flower logo, allowing consumers – including public and private sector purchasers – to identify them easily. The Eco-label covers a wide range of products and services, including cleaning products, appliances, paper products, textiles and home and garden products, lubricants and services such as tourist accommodation. The environmental criteria
behind gaining the Eco-label accreditation is very tough – with only the best products which are kindest to the environment being entitled to carry the EU Eco-label. Emma Wood, marketing manager for Disposables UK, said: “The company has been working on gaining the EU Eco-label on our Bay West range of toilet tissue and hand towels for the last 18 months. “As the Eco-label considers the whole life cycle of the product from raw material through to finished product through to product disposal, the process has been long and challenging, but very worthwhile.” Each of the Bay West products, which are made at Disposables UK’s head office production plant, were tested at independent test centres and the results ana-
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Page 5 ■ GREEN LIGHT: Bob Ryder (left), of DEFRA, congratulates Disposables UK sales director Paul Halliwell and marketing manager Emma Wood
lysed by Eco-label assessors and then reviewed by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs. Said Emma: “Working with our paper mills and their pulp suppliers, we have secured this major certification on some of our Bay West products and we truly believe this is going to give us a great selling advantage over our competitors.
“Disposables UK has recognised the importance of being green. To be able to provide certified ‘green washrooms’ into places where environmental concerns are a consideration makes customers happy and increases our market share.” Disposables UK Limited has been shortlisted for Thursday Night’s Examiner Business Awards.
Exports are the answer BANKER’S BLOG Jill Hague
aving a solid domestic business is H the primary focus for many companies in Huddersfield, especially
during the recent downturn. However, as domestic markets continue to pose challenges, and the cost of suppliers, services and skills become more expensive, HSBC believes businesses should consider what opportunities lie beyond these shores. In doing so, a business can diversify risk and capitalise on growth opportunities by harnessing new revenue streams. The recent HSBC Going International study conducted amongst 500 UK businesses either trading internationally or planning to in the future, reiterates our view. T h e s t u dy r e v e a l s t h at 3 8 % o f domestic-only UK businesses see international trade as crucial to their overall survival. This increases to 90% to when speaking to those who are already trading overseas. In Yorkshire and Humberside, over a third of businesses are already trading internationally, with 88% of these reporting that international trade is vital to their long term success. We are currently experiencing an increase in the number of discussions with both existing and new customers in Huddersfield who are either looking to export for the first time or who are researching new markets. As a result, HSBC is working in partnership with UKTI to explore all possible options for customers. The biggest international markets for businesses in Yorkshire and Humber are in Europe, with Germany, France and Italy topping the list. However, we are also witnessing an
increase in the number of businesses looking to trade with emergent markets, buoyed by a booming economy in China and growing consumer demands. In fact, 44% of international businesses in Yorkshire and Humber are already trading with China. This trend looks set to continue with businesses in Yorkshire and Humber investigating the possibility of international trade citing Asia, Spain, France and Germany as key geographical targets. Trading overseas can offer a wealth of opportunities and could increase profit potential. But success is dependent on a number of factors; from an understanding of the local currency and payment terms to a different language and rules of etiquette. Therefore, it is vital to take professional advice from expert organisations such as the North East’s Regional Language Network. A strong banking relationship is key for businesses with overseas aspirations. HSBC’s team of commercial and specialist experts in Huddersfield, working seamlessly with its unique global relationship management team around the world can help negotiate the opportunities and challenges overseas. We believe the only way the UK will recover quickly and sustainably from the recession is by trading her way out. That calls for increased commitment to the export of goods and services. Exposing a business to overseas opportunities makes it more competitive, more productive and better equipped to deal with economic challenges.
Jill Hague is HSBC area commercial director for Calderdale and Kirklees
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
Page 6
Tolent is rising to a new challenge A PARTNERSHIP between Huddersfield University and building contractor Tolent Construction has reached new heights. The company has secured a £170,000 contract to refurbish the roofing of the 14-storey Central Services Building at the university’s Queensgate campus. The work is scheduled for completion this winter. The contract is the latest in a series of developments undertaken by Tolent on behalf of the university dating back to 2001. Previous work by Tolent has included a new reception, the refurbishment of the library, a new teaching and performing arts centre in Oldham and the conversion of a music building into a lecture theatre, teaching facility and offices for the university’s estates and facilities department. Colin Blair, director of estates and facilities, said: “The
fact that we have been using Tolent for more than 10 projects since 2001 demonstrates our satisfaction with the reliable quality of their work and service. “In 2008, they completed five projects with a total value of about £8.5m. In each case, Tolent worked closely with the university’s management team and end users to deliver very high quality, high-tech facilities – all of them completed on time to fit the schedule of the academic year.” Tony Collins, project manager at Tolent, said: “We are delighted to continue working with the university on their exciting redevelopment. “For many years Tolent Construction have been very active in the education sector and I believe that our experience has been an important factor in developing a successful relationship with the university.”
Trading sound advice BUILDING tradesmen across Kirklees can find out how to make savings by reducing waste – thanks to new fact sheets from environmental advice group Envirowise. The building industry creates some 120m tonnes of construction, demolition and excavation waste every year – about a third of all waste in the UK. The new fact sheets provide information to help bricklayers, labourers, electricians, plumbers, decorators, plasterers and carpenters. The fact sheets can be downloaded for free at www.envirowise.gov.uk Elin Crebbin, Envirowise regional manager for Yorkshire, said the new fact sheets could help local small builders and tradesmen find out the simple and effective ways to save money and help the environment. They also highlight legislation affecting sole traders as well as giving details of organisations that can offer more help.
■ HIGH RISE: On the roof of Huddersfield University's Central Services Building are (front to back) Colin Blair, estates and facilities director for the university; Tony Lelliott, university building surveyor; and Tony Collins, project manager for Tolent Construction
commercial properties
14 st georges square, huddersfield hd1 1jf telephone 01484 558231/530361 - jonathan.wilson@bramleys1.co.uk
www.bramleys.com
offices offices
COLNESIDE BUSINESS PARK, MILNSBRIDGE
QUEEN STREET, HUDDERSFIELD
£30,000 PA
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Office Premises
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541.62m² (5,830ft²)
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Good car parking
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Popular location
Potential Call Centre ● Open plan ● Showroom ● FLEXIBLE TERMS ●
LOCKWOOD ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD
£11,000 P/A
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Ground and First Floor Offices
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115.6m² (1,244ft²)
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Listed building
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Georgian Terrace
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Close to
£13,000 PA
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University ●
Electric central heating
ST ANDREWS ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD
First floor office
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premises
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84.45m² (909ft²)
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Courtyard setting
Fully inclusive rent Category II lighting ● 1/2 mile from Huddersfield town centre
industrial LEEDS ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD
£20,000 PA
FOR SALE OR TO LET
Secure Site/External Storage ● 1.25 acres (0.5 hectares) ● Secure Perimeter ●
Popular Industrial Location ● Just off Leeds Road ● Good Motorway access ●
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Secure fenced site
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632sq yds
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High profile position
Outskirts of Huddersfield town centre ● Good access to M62 motorway network ● Close vicinity to retail park ●
commercial RAILWAY STREET, HUDDERSFIELD
£500,000
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Development Opportunity
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791.06sqm (8,515sqft)
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Partial implementation of Planning Consent for two commercial units and residential apartments
SALENDINE NOOK SHOPPING CENTRE, HUDDERSFIELD
STANDARD HOUSE, HUDDERSFIELD
FROM £7,000 PA
Retail units 20.72sqm (223sqft) and 155.33sqm (1,672sqft) ● Popular shopping centre ● ●
Recently refurbished ● Adjacent to Sainsburys ● On site car parking ●
PENISTONE ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD
£8,000 PA
Retail unit 44.77sqm (482sqft) ● Ancillary accommodation 69.77sqm (746sqft)
Return frontage Rateable value £6,400 ● Close to bus station and multistorey car park
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GEORGE STREET, HUDDERSFIELD
£15,000 P/A
Single storey workshop ● 501.48m² (5,398ft²) ● B1 Planning Consent ●
Rateable value £7,300 ● Car parking for up to 12 vehicles ● 3 Months rent free available ●
£15,000 PA
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Gas supply
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Industrial Unit/Warehouse 553sqm (5,954sqft) ● Rateable Value £11,500 ● 3 Phase Electricity
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Flexible terms
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13,188 sqft also available
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
property
Key appointment for building firm AN award-winning building company has appointed a “headhunter” to help recruit key personnel. Brighouse-based building services company Ploughcroft Ltd has engaged Paul Mulcock to help the company find a marketing manager to promote the business and its successes. Ploughcroft was founded by managing director Chris Hopkins and his father Bill in 1997. Earlier this year it was named a gold winner in the Bucking the Trend competition run by Business Link Yorkshire. The company was also winner of the Employer of the Year category in the 2008 Examiner Business Awards. Ploughcroft has won plaudits for its innovative response to the recession – launching the Rooferman franchise to help construction workers made redundant get into business for themselves after just five weeks of training. Rooferman offers prospective roof-
ers the chance to set up a man-in-a-van business without the usual risks associated with going into business for themselves. Franchisees get intensive training at Ploughcroft’s purpose-built training centre on Owler Ings Road – covering areas such as roofing techniques, repair and maintenance and installing “green” technologies such as solar panels. They also benefit from a support package which includes regular visits from a franchise manager, a mentoring programme, top-up training as and when required, performance benchmarking and regular networking meetings. Mr Mulcock, managing director of Broad Oak Solutions, based at Slaithwaite, said: “I am delighted to be partnering such a progressive and innovative business as Ploughcroft – a firm proving that even in difficult conditions, business can flourish.”
■ WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY: Chris Hopkins (right), managing director of Ploughcroft, meets “headhunter” Paul Mulcock
INDUSTRIAL
ReTAIL
FOR SALE – NEw INStRuctION tO LEt
Modern Workshop and Offices
Town Centre Retail Unit
Martin Street, Brighouse 44 Park Street, 1 Modern workshop Brighouse
■ LINK-UP: Adrian Wilson (left) of A R Wilson and Co Surveyors , with Justin Dugdale, director of Cornerstone Estate Agents, which are tackling the commercial property market
Commercial arrangement ESTATE agency Cornerstone has forged a are owners looking to sell or lease their new partnership to strengthen its activities in properties, investors or tenants looking for the commercial property market. suitable business premises. Cornerstone, which has branches at Denby “We also aim to offer a comprehensive and Dale, Kirkburton and Honley, has linked up cost-effective commercial property managewith Scissett-based chartered surveyor Adrian ment service for people with a single property Wilson to formally launch Cornerstone Com- ot a portfolio of properties.” mercial. Mr Dugdale, who is based at Cornerstone’s The new service – running alongside its offices in Wakefield Road, Denby Dale, said: estate agency work – will focus on commercial “We have predominantly dealt with residential property sales, lettings and management in the property, but we have frequently dealt with Huddersfield, Holmfirth, Wakefield and local business people selling commercial propBarnsley areas. erties. Now we want to build up that part of the Mr Wilson has more than 20 years experibusiness.” ence in the business as a chartered surveyor. He said properties had ben selling in the Justin Dugdale, of Cornerstone, said: “The service will build on our wealth of local commercial sector, adding: “We are seeing property knowledge to ensure we satisfy the more enquiries for start units. They are provrequirements of our customers – whether they ing very popular.”
and offices 1 63.98m2 (687 sq ft) 1 548.21m2 (5,901 sq ft) 1 Return frontage 1 close proximity to J25 M62 overlooking Park Street Price: On application and West Park Street 1 open plan retail space tO LEt with additional stores Single Storey 1 w/c and kitchenette Industrial and facilities Rental: £8,250 per Workshop Unit annum exclusive unit 5 Branxholme (Incentives available) Industrial Estate,
Brighouse
1 90m2 (969 sq ft) 1 established industrial estate 1 Benefits from Scf and fSL throughout 1 Drive-in access by way of a steel roller shutter door Rental: £6,500 per annum exclusive
tO LEt
Unit 3 Westbury Street Elland
1 Detached modern single storey industrial unit 1 229m2 (2,467 sq ft) 1 ease of access to J24 M62 Rental: £12,000 per annum exclusive
Page 7 Financial problems DEVELOPERS in Yorkshire are unable to get finance to turn their schemes into reality, an expert has claimed. Alex Munro, head of commercial development agency Knight Frank in West Yorkshire, said the climate remained very challenging for those who want to build. He said: “Banks only want to lend on the lowest risk properties, which means a substantial equity interest from the borrower, a secure covenant as a tenant and a fundable lease length which is a minimum of 15 years, ideally a minimum of 20 years. “It is also important to remember that the due diligence process has moved from detailed to forensic.” But he added: “It is also the time for the wealthy individuals to get back into the market, where they can get real value for money. We should also not forget the one or two funds which still have the appetite and cash for development if someone else has done the hard yards in pulling it together.”
offIce tO LEt
Pennine House
Bradley Business Park, Huddersfield
1 Modern B1 office suites 1 1,000 sq ft to 2,637 sq ft 1 considerable car parking provision 1 competitive rentals Further Details: On application
tO LEt – NEw INStRuctION
74a Commercial Street
Brighouse
1 first floor offices 1 84m2 (905 sq ft) 1 Town centre location Rental: £5,200 per annum exclusive
LAND tO LEt
Land at Leeds Road Huddersfield
1 Prominent Leeds Road frontage 1 close to Mercedes/Audi dealerships 1 0.27 Ha (0.68 Acres) (may divide) 1 Potential for alternative uses Rental: On application Joint Agents: Hanson chartered Surveyors
tO LEt
Heathfield House tO LEt/FOR SALE
Pennine Business Park
Bradley, Huddersfield
1 High specification offices 1 372 & 557m2 (4,000 & 6,000 sq ft) 1 ease of access to J25 M62 Rental/Price: On application Joint Agents: Eddisons
Heathfield Street, Elland
1 Detached two storey office and works 1 642m2 (6,912 sq ft) 1 Shared secure yard 1 ease of access to J24 M62 Rental: £22,500 per annum exclusive
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Ahmed Mahdi & David Ford
Fantastic Media BIRSTALL-based Fantastic Media has appointed two new members of staff to strengthen its digital operations. After working for a small web development agency in Leeds, Ahmed Mahdi (pictured top) has joined Fantastic as part of a bigger team and to develop his experience and skills. He will be fully involved in building websites for clients and making them into dynamically driven content managed systems. For the third year running, Fantastic is continuing its partnership with Huddersfield University as it has employed a student on a year’s placement in its digital department. David Ford (also pictured), a third year student in multimedia design, will work on video and design projects for a broad range of clients. Fantastic, formed almost four years ago, has now employed five new starters since the beginning of 2009.
Movers and shakers
Birthday treat for busy staff STAFF enjoyed a sweet treat to mark the first anniversary of a Huddersfield online retailer. Your Department Store, based at Ashbrow Mills, Sheepridge, began with just two retailers on the books – but now it has 23 retailers trading online. “We are delighted to be celebrating our first birthday,” said chairman David Ruddiman. “This first year has seen the business go from strength to strength. “We are very grateful to the first retailers in particular who took the
brave move to become part of YDS and are pleased they are still with us a year down the line. “Here’s to the next year!” YDS, which has a staff of nine, allows independent furniture retailers to have an online trading site at a fraction of the cost it would take to develop their own e-commerce systems. Recent additions to the retailer list include Lancashire-based Domus Furniture and Carpets, Stevenson’s and Odd Size Beds.
Hospice gets mobile support
Jacqui Tuff
UP & Working
IT adds up for Samantha INSURANCE broker Samantha James is aiming to be leader of the pack. Samantha, 25, an account executive at Eastwood and Partners in Huddersfield, has reached the final of the IT Pack, an initiative run by Insurance Times and Aviva to spotlight the next generation of insurance brokers across the country. Samantha attended an IT Pack session in Leeds where she impressed with her contribution and her thoughts on the Insurance Industry. She now has to go to London to be interviewed by a panel of judges, including Nick Hewer from TV’s The Apprentice. The winners will receive their awards at a ceremony in December in Birmingham. John Eastwood, managing director of Eastwood and Partners, said: “The company are delighted that Sam has been selected as a finalist, it is well deserved and we wish her all the very best for the final.” Eastwood and Partners has more than 80 staff at offices in Huddersfield, Halifax and Sheffield providing insurance broking, risk management and financial services.
RECRUITMENT agency UP & Working Ltd has appointed Jaqui Tuff to the team. Jacqui (pictured) brings more than 15 years of experience to the company, having started out with nationwide agency Link up Recruitment in 1994. She worked her way up to branch manager following 10 years managing industrial and commercial placements. Jacqui became general manager for Horizon Recruitment and before taking up the post of strategic development manager for Major Recruitment Ltd based in Cleckheaton. She joins UP & Working, based at the Media Centre in Huddersfield, after a year as an independent consultant and adviser.
Stewart Wiliams & Kate Burn
Manifest MARKETING agency Manifest Communications as appointed Stewart Williams as creative designer and Kate Burn as public relations executive. Mr Williams (pictured, top) gained a degree in creative imaging and advertising at Huddersfield University before working for Mitre Sport International as head of design where he headed a team of three designers. Ms Burn (also pictured) joined Manifest’s Huddersfield office after completing a degree in public relations and advertising at the University of Lincoln. She worked as a marketing assistant for Leeds-based manufacturing and engineering parts supplier WDS Component Parts Ltd. Nev Ridley, joint managing director at Manifest Communications, said: “Considering the current economic climate, it is an ambitious move for us to be expanding rather than trying to consolidate. However, employing young professionals like Stewart and Kate will generate new opportunities for both the Huddersfield and London offices.”
Page 8
■ TALK TO ME: Richard Winterbottom, managing director of Talkative, with Kathryn Rogan (left) and Laura Ramsden, of Overgate Hospice A TELECOM company is ringing up cash for charity. Liversedge-based Talkative Ltd has joined forces with Overgate Hospice to develop a recycling partnership for old mobile phones. The company is also becoming a corporate member of the Elland-based hospice. Talkative managing director Richard Winterbottom has undertaken a large recycling campaign to help the hospice improve on the few hundred pounds it currently gets from donations of recycled mobile phones. Kathryn Rogan, of the hospice, said: “Overgate Hospice is the only hospice in Calderdale. “Since it was established in 1981, it has expanded and continues to provide care to adults in Calderdale who have a life limiting illness.
“We have a 12-bed inpatient unit and there are doctors and nurses providing 24 hour specialist care to the patient while supporting families also. “We have a day hospice that offers day care to 12 patients a day. “Patients attend day care for support, to have a bit of fun and can also access therapies such as physiotherapy or aromatherapy.” Kathryn said the hospice running costs would total £1.9m this year – with just 18% covered by the local Primary Care Trust. She said: “It is pleasing to see a small to medium-sized business in Talkative Ltd embracing its corporate social responsibility to the wider community.”
Quality move for law firm LAW firm Chadwick Lawrence has joined the ranks of an exclusive nationwide alliance of high quality solicitor firms. The firm, which has offices at Railway Street in Huddersfield, has joined QualitySolicitors.com – the UK national legal brand which promotes the use of solicitor firms over “call centre law” soon to be provided by supermarkets and banks. Chadwick Lawrence was chosen as one of only 100 law firms nationwide to be named as founder members. QualitySolicitors.com will match users of its free service to the best high quality solicitor for their particular issue. The website at www.QualitySolicitors.com aims to address all possible legal needs by including extensive legal resources, DIY documents, online legal advice and by referring users to the telephone legal advice service from consumer organisation Which?