Kirklees Business News, November 2008

November, 2008

233

‘Cyber squatters’ have a name for it FIRMS set for a merger or name change have been warned to watch out for “cyber squatters” – or face paying thousands of pounds to get the website name they really want.

Huddersfield IT expert Malcolm Pow issued the warning after opportunists cashed in on the Lloyds TSB takeover of Halifax Bank of Scotland to register a host of website domain names.

Mr Pow, of computer support company Ulysses IT, said: “Many of the potential website domain names for the new company – such as LloydsHalifax.co.uk – were bought by speculators minutes after the deal was announced.

“While it’s illegal for anyone

to try and pass themselves off as the new bank, it’s a slow process for the bank to take them to court and get the domain name.

“What is more likely is they will just pay a few thousand pounds to buy the domain name simply and quickly.”

Holmfirth-based Mr Pow said: “The people who buy these domains in the hope a company will pay for them are known as cyber squatters.

“And any business announcing a new name or a merger should buy the new domain name before the deal is announced.”

Both LloydsHalifax.co.uk and LloydsHalifax.com are shown to have been registered to a private individual in Scotland.

■ FAR FLUNG: Nicky Battye (right) and David Kershaw, of Boomerang Recruitment, are expanding the business into the Middle East

Flying to Dubai A RECRUITMENT company in Huddersfield is helping clients in the Middle East to find the workers they need.

Boomerang Recruitment, headed by founder Nicky Battye, is making the most of opportunities in the ever-growing jobs market in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

She said: “Having a solid foundation in the UK, a substantial knowledge of international recruitment and some excellent contacts in the region, we felt the time was right to expand in to global recruitment – with particular reference to the United Arab Emirates – and take the company in a new direction.”

Said Nicky: “Using the step-by-step method that has seen Boomerang grow to its current position after only three years, I’m applying that same criteria to the UAE recruitment market – and it’s already paying dividends.

“With tax-free benefits, a fantastic climate and a high standard of living, it’s becoming increasingly more attractive for UK workers to explore the benefits of employment in the UAE.” Nicky, who set up Boomerang three years ago, said: “I’m delighted that Boomerang has moved forward in the right direction since it was founded.

“Our model for getting it right at Boomerang has always been getting to know our clients and how they work – not just the basic job specification they are looking for.

“By doing this and having excellent communication with our candidates we have consistently been able to place the perfect person for that company, not just someone with the right experience.”

Colleague David Kershaw said: “I’ve quickly learned that we do things a certain way here and that way is by attention to detail, attention to our client’s specifications and a clear knowledge of our candidate’s background and personality.”

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2

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

COMMENT

by

Henryk Zientek VENTS are moving quickly in the EThebeleaguered banking industry.

Government has provided a £37bn

lifeline to three of Britain’s biggest banks in its continuing effort to rescue the UK banking system using taxpayers’ money.

It is injecting £5bn for the Royal Bank of Scotland and also underwriting a £15bn share issue by the bank. In addition, Lloyds TSB and its proposed new partner Halifax Bank of Scotland are receiving up to £17bn of emergency funding.

In theory, the Government could end up owning about 60% of RBS and 43.5% of a merged Lloyds TSB-HBOS business – although Chancellor Alistair Darling has stressed that RBS, Lloyds TSB and HBOS will be run “at arm’s length” and the Government will not be involved in the banks’ day-to-day decisions.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown said the bail-out was “unprecedented but essential for all of us”.

This is just the latest chapter in a horror story which had its origins in the US and has quickly spread from a nightmare on Wall Street to send shock waves through the London stock exchange and financial markets worldwide.

While the arguments about blame will rumble on, the main concern now is that stability returns to the banking system and the wider economy. The Government should also aim to make life as bearable as possible for hard-pressed firms especially as most forecasters believe the fall-out in terms of company closures and job losses will continue well into 2009.

Hard times ahead.

Read Henryk Zientek's Business reports Monday to Friday in ...

Inside Issues

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FINANCIAL REPORT

Bankruptcy alert!

MORE than a fifth of Yorkshire households are now struggling to keep up with bills, a survey has revealed.

The survey by polling body YouGov and insolvency industry group R3 found that 23% of households in the region now find meeting their bills “a constant struggle” or have fallen behind with their financial commitments.

Figures also showed that for the first time ever, some 600,000 British residents say they are repaying debts under a Debt Management Plan – an unofficial, but formalised agreement between an individual in financial strife and their creditors.

DMPs do not show up in the government’s official quarterly insolvency statistics – but the survey said the figure for DMPs was now four times higher than the total for people working their way through insolvency via an Individual Voluntary Arrangement.

It is also twice as high as the number who said they were cur-

■ WARNING: Peter Sargent, of insolvency group R3, urged debtors to seek advice

rently bankrupt or had been declared bankrupt in the past.

Nearly 15m households – 63% of the British total – said their financial circumstances had worsened in the past six months,

with only 13% seeing an improvement.

This comes at a time when 43% of the adult population currently uses an authorised overdraft, while 34% have a credit card that is not repaid in full each month.

Only 30% have no borrowing at all.

The survey said there was evidence that households were adjusting their spending habits. Almost half of those polled said they now spent less money on items like DVDs, CDs and jewellery while 38% were buying more own-label or value goods.

R3 is predicting a dramatic rise in corporate and personal bankruptcies over the next 12 months – due to careless use of credit cards, borrowing without thinking about how to repay the money and “irresponsible lending by credit providers”.

Peter Sargent, the group’s Huddersfield and Halifax spokesman, said: “People’s attitude to debt has softened to an alarming degree and we are not surprised that

people are borrowing with no idea of how to repay.

“The proliferation of credit cards in the late 1990s has led to a situation where 30% of the economy is based on consumer spending. Escalating house prices have given a false sense of wealth and provided security for less scrupulous creditors to lend irresponsibly.”

Meltham man Mr Sargent, who heads Begbies Traynor in Halifax, said: “This is a situation that everyone will have their part to play in diffusing.

“The key point is that people should not be afraid to seek advice from a qualified practitioner – and the earlier the better.

“The survey also revealed that less than half of those in serious financial difficulties have sought professional help to sort their financial problems, which is deeply worrying.

“People should be less afraid of seeking advice than the consequences of not seeking it.”

Jo takes lead in expansion A HUDDERSFIELD woman is at the hub of exciting expansion plans for a Yorkshire financial management and accountancy practice.

MGR has opened an office in Sheffield to complement its London site – and expand its services to include dedicated corporate finance and tax divisions. It is also looking to expand further in Yorkshire through a merger and acquisition strategy.

Denby Dale woman Jo Haigh, MGR’s head of corporate finance, said: “The Sheffield office has been opened to help the business to provide an even better service for its clients.

“MGR has a national customer base with many of its business clients located in the north of England, so opening an office in Sheffield was very much a strategic decision and part of the firm’s ambitious growth plans.

“The next stage of the plan is for MGR to acquire an additional business based in Yorkshire to allow us to offer a full portfolio of accountancy services from the Sheffield office, including audit and financial services.”

Cattles in line for big prize

■ EXCITING PLANS: Jo Haigh, head of corporate finance, and Chris McGowan, head of tax, at accountancy practice MGR

A BIRSTALL-based financial business has been shortlisted for a national award.

Cattle Invoice Finance is one of five nominees in the category for Business Rescue Funder of the Year in the Insolvency and Rescue Awards 2008.

A panel of 15 judges will deliberate and choose the winners.

They awards will be presented at a ceremony to take place on October 30 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

Broker takes award A BRIGHOUSE man has won a finance industry award.

Neil Grimshaw, founding director of Ravenhall Risk S o l u t i o n s, wa s n a m e d Young Broker of the Year in the UK Broker Awards.

Mr Grimshaw formed Ravenhall Risk Solutions in 2006 after graduating from Huddersfield University in 2003. Since then, Ravenhall has expanded to exmploy five staff and has become an established insurance broker placing more than £2m of clients’ money.

Mr Grimshaw’s latest success follows her gaining a

highly commended rating in the 2007 Insurance Times Awards and the achievement of major client wins, including becoming preferred supplier to the Association of British Riding Schools.

R av e n h a l l h a s a l s o developed a new travel insurance product for pregnant women.

Since its launch in March, the company has sold more than 800 travel insurance policies.

Mr Grimshaw has also been shortlisted in two categories for the IT Awards in December.

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

Neil Grimshaw

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

Chartered Accountants Business & Tax Advisers Registered Auditors

3

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Business broker makes its move

Healthy work for agency A MARKETING agency in Huddersfield has given a new look to one of the UK’s biggest names in healthcare.

The Engine Room, based at the Media Centre, Northumberland Street, has unveiled a re-branding for UK Medical, a leading supplier of medical products to the NHS and private healthcare sector.

Darren Evans, creative director, said the project followed the launch of Brand Engine, a brand “makeover service” devised by The Engine Room focusing on “getting under the skin of what makes a company tick and what drives it”.

He said: “A series of workshops and design audits take place to establish business needs, competitors and their position in the marketplace, all before a brief is created to get the design strategy exactly right.

“We then go on to use the resources across the rest of the business to develop new corporate identities and also plan a roll out campaign to communicate the new look.

“Only after we have this buy-in, do we then look at marketing campaigns and the use of other services of ours such as Engine Mail and e-marketing solutions.”

Mr Evans said Sheffield-based UK Medical saw the value in investing in design.

After 20 years, its look had become a little bit dated and not truly representative of their position as an innovative organisation at the forefront of their industry.”

UK Medical also took into account the Design Council's findings that every £100 a business spends on design increases turnover by £225 and that 84% of the UK’s fastest-growing businesses believe that design has become more important in maintaining their competitive edge.

A BUSINESS broker handling more than £150m of sales last year has moved to new offices in Huddersfield.

Redwoods Dowling Kerr has switched from Honley to the Media Centre at Northumberland Street after joining forces with BBTA Ltd. The successful business broker has been established for more than 30 years and was founded as Dowling Kerr by Mike Dowling and Kate Kerr in Holmfirth.

Since then, the business has flourished following the merger with national broker Redwoods to form Redwoods Dowling

Kerr.

The company, which handled transactions totalling £150m last year, said the move to a town centre location would ensure the operation was more visible and strengthen its links with local businesses.

Andrew Steen, associate director of Redwoods Dowling Kerr, said: “I am keen to keep the business within Yorkshire and feel that the close working relationship with Yorkshire businesses has been an enormous contributing factor to the success of what was once a family run firm.”

■ POWERING UP: Garden Court residents Blanche Naven (front) Peter Senior (left, back) and Joan Morgan (right) get a lesson in IT thanks to Virgin Media and Digital Unite mentor Jeff Maud

Pensioners take to IT RESIDENTS at a sheltered housing scheme in Huddersfield are gearing up for lessons in IT after receiving free broadband internet access.

The “silver surfers” at Garden Court are getting online as part of Virgin Media’s Power to All People initiative, which is being run in partnership with Digital Unite, a training organisation helping older people get involved with digital technology.

The resident at the Yorkshire Housing complex have been given a free broadband internet connection for a year, two PCs, computer training and a printer under the scheme. The training is being provided by Digital Unite.

Stuart Poore, director of corporate responsibility at Virgin Media, said: “The internet offers exciting opportunities for all ages. More people are using their PCs for

shopping, online banking, sharing photos and keeping in touch with their families.

“What makes this project really valuable is that we are giving training as well as broadband and kit to older beginners. Our goal is to help those without the skills or resources to use and enjoy the web for the very first time.”

Maria Milner, scheme supervisor, said: “We are thrilled that we’ve been selected by Virgin Media and Digital Unite for this scheme. We hope that by encouraging this type of project we’ll enable residents to improve and develop new skills, as well as maintaining contact with family.

“Some are looking forward to communicating with relatives in places as far flung as Japan. Residents are also eager to show their friends pictures of where they grew up and spent their childhood.”

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4

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

TECH TALK Roger Pearson

The cereal commuter

OES this sound familiar? This mornD ing, just after cornflakes, I made the dash from the back door to the car in

the rain, drove the 20 minutes to Lockwood, sat in the queue at the bottom of Lockwood Scar and arrived at P2 in good time to open the helpdesk at 8am.

For anyone who commutes to work regularly, perhaps you have a similar routine. But for many, the daily commute is changing as remote working becomes technical reality and businesses and workers seek the advantages of a more flexible working pattern.

There are some fairly compelling reasons for our firms to consider remote working – cost of office space, rising utility prices, increasing traffic congestion and employee motivation.

On top of that, since the Employment Act 2002, businesses have been required to seriously consider requests for flexible and remote working from employees. Where staff retention is important, offering key workers the opportunity to work from home can also be a real incentive to anyone considering their employment options. No surprise then that in a recent BT report, 83% think that flexible working has competitive advantages for business.

What are the business and technology considerations? Perhaps we are concerned that working from home is unproductive and that a day working from home may actually be spent watching television. A perfectly valid concern, however, staff are often more productive and focused at home when they would otherwise be distracted in the office.

Technology is often required to enable remote working and has an associated cost, but remember to consider this versus the cost of office space and perhaps replacing staff who would otherwise leave. Perhaps a few years ago, finding and implementing the appropriate technology could have been quite challenging, but this really should not be a hindrance today.

A popular technology setup for remote working is a broadband connection and an application delivery technology such as Terminal Services or Citrix.

Broadband is faster and cheaper than ever and although some providers have not had the best reputation for service it is not too difficult to find a good recommendation. Even better, with the roll out of super fast HSDPA services on the latest mobile devices you can now get broadband internet access speeds on your mobile phone. Of course, this is subject to signal strength.

Terminal Services is included to varying degrees on Windows PCs and Servers. Briefly, it provides secure remote control of office applications from remote/home desktops.

After logging on, the screen view is transmitted to the remote PC and keyboard and mouse clicks are sent back to the office machine real time, enabling a full “in the office” working experience. Security is important and configuration can be adjusted to permit or deny access to applications and devices such as printers and USB drives protecting company data. If necessary, combine this with a VoIP telephone system and todays technology can give you a very rich working environment which can be accessed from almost any remote location.

Roger Pearson is a project manager at P2 Technologies Ltd, Lockwood

Day to celebrate STAFF at a building society office served champagne and cake to customers to celebrate winning two awards in 2008.

The Meltham branch of the Yorkshire Building Society was twice named Branch of the Quarter for its first class service, its commitment to finding the best deals for customers and its success generating business through recommendations.

Branch manager Andrea

Brook said: “We have had a fantastic year at our branch and feel we’re really a key business in the village.

“We quite regularly have visits from customers who just pop in for a chat and we’re more than happy to share the latest village news over a cup of tea.”

Andrea (left) is pictured with colleagues (from left) Jackie Preston, Laura Meskimmon, Gail Edwards and Melaine Mountain

Danny set to help develop potential

A MIRFIELD businessman has been appointed an official ambassador for a new initiative to help people make more of their potential.

Danny Matharu, managing director of corporate events, recruitment and sales company Hillrich Ltd, joins the likes of The Apprentice’s Sir Alan Sugar, Dragon’s Den panellist Peter Jones and Ann Summers founder Jacqueline Gold in supporting the Make Your Mark campaign.

The national campaign aims to create a culture to support enterprising people through the inspirational stories of business leaders who have already made their mark – and combined making money with making a positive impact on local communities.

Danny is already making his ideas happen by inviting all young entrepreneurs involved in the Make Your Mark campaign to his annual DreamStart conference free of charge – along with priority passes to all other events he runs.

Said Danny: ““I am honoured to be asked to help with the Make Your Mark initiative, joining esteemed individuals like Sir Alan Sugar, Peter Jones and Jacqueline Gold who all support the campaign.

“I only wish that Make Your Mark were around when I was young as I would have probably started up in business 15 years earlier!”

He added: “I am passionate about assisting young people to overcome any fears and negativity, as I believe these are any entrepreneurs’ biggest hurdles.

“Along with Make Your Mark, I will actively aim to increase the number of young people starting up in business in Yorkshire and beyond.”

Eimear Hale, of Make Your Mark, said: “A Make Your Mark ambassador is an individual who can use their experience to inspire others and encourage them to turn their ideas into reality.

■ AMBASSADOR: Danny Matharu, of Mirfield-based Hillrich Ltd, is backing campaign

“Ambassadors are central to the campaign’s aim of increasing entrepreneurial motivation and experience. Danny will join a network who together will inspire people across the UK to take the plunge and make their ideas happen.”

Some 600 Make Your Mark Ambassadors across the UK are committed to telling their inspiring stories via events, school visits and the media. Their efforts will inspire others to go out and make their dreams a reality.

Make Your Mark is a not-for-profit campaign backed by businesses, charities, education bodies and government.

Business groups involved include the British Chambers of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses, the Institute of Direct-

ors and the CBI. Also involved are bodies including Arts Council England, the Learning and Skills Council, the National Federation of Enterprise Agencies, Shell LiveWIRE, and the Prince’s Trust.

Danny runs the annual DreamStart conference and exhibition as well as other large-scale business-to-business events. Hillrich also offers sales training and graduate recruitment services to organisations across Yorkshire.

DreamStart 2008, held at the Royal Armouries in Leeds, included 78 exhibitors and 17 seminars on major business issues for business owners and senior directors from companies across the region.

Firms can make more of resources KIRKLEES firms have been urged to find out how to save cash by becoming resource efficient.

Environmental advice organisation Envirowise is hosting an event on October 22 at the Marriot Hotel in Leeds to help businesses counter the impact of rising costs for food, fuel and raw materials.

The free event Competitive Climate: Profitable Future, is open to managers, directors, front line staff, and environ-

mental representatives across all sectors.

It will cover topics such as legislation, business opportunities, practical workshops on reducing water use, packaging and eco-design and achieving a “greener” supply chain.

Guest speakers include Keith McIntosh, environmental mana ger a t Manchester United; and Andrew Robinson, managing director of amenity and landscape suppliers, Rigby Taylor. The

event will be chaired by a representative of Business Link.

Elin Crebbin, regional manager in Yorkshire and Humber for Envirowise, said: “The event gives businesses the opportunity to learn directly from our advisers and also from leading companies that have been through these programmes themselves.”

Fo r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n v i s i t w w w. e nv i ro w i s e. gov. u k o r e m a i l kate.lynch-blosse@envirowise.gov.uk

5

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

CITY TALK

Simon Kaye

Hurricane season FTER what has felt like a hurA ricane-driven restructuring of the US financial system in recent months, rarely

have the prospects for the world economy appeared so uncertain.

While there is general agreement on the need for the US and other western economies to reduce debt, there are wide differences of opinion over how rapidly this will occur and whether the immediate threats to confidence in the financial system will degenerate into a collapse or whether a more orderly workout can be engineered.

The threat to financial stability is rooted in unsound lending by parts of the banking sector and the overly thin layer of capital available to absorb losses. This has led to a freezing up of normal credit channels and recurrent speculation over the fate of a series of banks.

In an atmosphere which at times has approached feverish panic, such rumours can become self-fulfilling, leading to fears for other parts of the banking sector, in a self-feeding series of collapses. This is why banks are now unwilling to lend to each other and why investors, stung by losses in bank shares, are unwilling to stump up the additional capital needed.

Clearly, this is a process that cannot continue for long before material damage is done to economic confidence, as now appears to be happening. So, radical action has become necessary for the authorities to restore confidence in the credit markets.

It is, of course, possible that policy mistakes will occur akin to those in the 1930s (which included tighter monetary policy, fiscal retrenchment and trade barriers) and precipitate a major and prolonged downturn.

However, with enough egg landing on the faces of financial pundits over the past year to threaten a world omelette shortage we should not assume something will happen just because someone says it could, particularly if the global authorities (armed with history books of the 1930s) appear to recognise the risks and are embarking on precisely the opposite course.

Seemingly ignored in the recent mood of deepening gloom, the building blocks of a more controlled way of restructuring the banks are being assembled. Bank losses are being forced into the open, prompting closure, takeover or capital raising according to the circumstances.

The US government is assembling a toolkit of measures including the ability to purchase “troubled” assets from the banks, giving investors greater certainty over the soundness of banks seeking additional capital. Central banks globally are providing massive quantities of liquidity to smooth the adjustment process while the interbank lending markets recover confidence.

Although investors are currently suspending judgement over the success of these measures, this is normal in times of crisis, when investor confidence is frayed. This does not mean that pessimism itself is always a reason to buy but it is not necessarily a contra-indicator.

Although we believe that an unduly negative view of the future is priced into financial markets, a period of lower volatility is necessary to allow sentiment to regroup.

Simon Kaye is Divisional Director at Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management

■ MEMORY MAN: Huddersfield Giants star Eorl Crabtree with Chris Hunter, the managing director of local company Cosynight which is supplying the player with a "memory foam" mattress

This sleeping Giant’s okay!

TECHNOLOGY developed by space agency NASA is now helping Huddersfield Giants star Eorl Crabtree get a good night’s sleep.

The player has become a great supporter of M e m o r y Fo a m m attresses, pillows and other bedding products supplied by Huddersfield firm Cosynight.

He said: “Cosynight

mattresses mould themselves to the contours of your body and provide 100% support together with great comfort. Even after a hard game when certain joints and muscles have received a pounding I can look forward to a good night's sleep.”

Chris Hunter, managing director of Cosynight, said: “Eorl joins a growing band of

h i g h ly a c t ive s p o r t s people who appreciate the a dva n t ag e s M e m o r y Foam products can offer.

“I'm delighted, but not surprised that he has fo u n d o u r r a n g e o f products to offer so many advantages. The bottom line is that if they are good enough for a Giant – and astronauts for that matter – they will be fantastic for everyone else.”

Pioneer addresses top show A CHARTERED physiotherapist in Huddersfield was among keynote speakers at the National Back Show held at London’s Earl’s Court.

Georgie Oldfield (right), of the Huddersfield Pain Relief Centre, Longley, was invited to talk about the results of a programme she has been pioneering to eradicate chronic pain.

Said Georgie: “This programme is based on the work of Dr John Sarno, a professor at the New York University Hospital, who for over 30 years has been specialising in the treatment of chronic pain.

“Although a lot of research now demonstrates that stress has a major impact on the level of pain, Dr Sarno’s work shows that the majority of ongoing, chronic pain is actually caused by stress and the repressed emotions associated with the stress. The programme is a simple, self-help programme that teaches patients how and why the pain is caused and how to resolve it.”

Georgie is the only health profes-

Letters attracting attention

IF your name starts with the letters A, M, S, R or P then you get more junk e-mail than anyone else in Kirklees, it has emerged.

New analysis of more than 500m junk email messages has found these are the most popular letters when people sending “spam” try to guess people’s email addresses.

It means that 40% of e-mails in their in-box are likely to be spam.

By contrast, only about 20% of incoming e-mails are likely to be spanm for people people whose names start with Q, Y or Z. IT expert Malcolm Pow, of software services firm Ulysses IT in Huddersfield, said: “For years. we noticed that some people got more spam than others, for no apparent reason. Now we know why.

“Spam e-mail is a bit of a joke, but there is a serious side to it. Some of our Huddersfield business clients get thousands of spam messages a day. Without effective filtering to ensure they don’t have to deal with them, their business would be crippled.”

The analysis was carried out by the University of Cambridge on 550m spam e-mails received in two months earlier this year. It found that “spammers” take a real e-mail address such as malcolm@u-it.co.uk and try the part at the front on a new domain name to try to guess new email addresses, such as m a l c o l m @ y a h o o . c o . u k o r m a lcolm@gmail.com.

Said Mr Pow: “If you’re being plagued by spam there are two things you can do – either use cost-effective technology to filter it better or change your name to Quentin or Yolanda!”

Ulysses IT, formed in 1998, specialises in computer support for businesses.

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Meet Bob... sional specialising in this innovative work in the UK – and as the awareness of Dr Sarno’s work is gradually becoming more known, she is finding that more people are travelling from places as far away as London and Edinburgh for a diagnosis and advice.

Said Georgie: “This is not only exciting because of the often complete eradication of pain that can be achieved, but also because once the patient has the diagnosis and information, the emphasis is on self-help and therefore costly, ongoing treatments are not required.”

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6

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Business coming to terms with the carbon economy GLOBAL economy. Eurozone economy.

Domestic economy. These are all terms we’ve become extremely familiar with in recent weeks.

Just turn on the TV, pick up a newspaper, or listen to the news on the radio and you cannot escape from commentary on some aspect of the current state of the economy or something that’s happened as a consequence of it.

The global, eurozone, and domestic economies infringe upon and affect our everyday lives in almost everything we do. They affect the purchase decisions we make, they affect the place where we live, they affect what we eat, what we wear, and they affect where we go and how we get there.

But perhaps we’re taking our eye off the ball, because there’s a far more important economy, one which transcends all the financial global chaos that’s occurring in the world today, an economy which has slipped silently down the priority list, whilst everyone’s been so busy reeling from the consequences and the fallout from the global credit crunch.

This economy is the Carbon Economy – which is that intangible domestic and global response to tackling climate change through the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. Emissions, which are man-made, rather than causal effects of nature, emissions which create greenhouse gases which deplete the ozone layer that protects us, emissions, which are causing global warming and subsequently creating extremes of weather with

The cost of global climate change is exercising the minds of government across the world. it should also provide food for thought for UK companies, says ALAN HALL, regional director for the EEF North East

all the catastrophic consequences which that incurs.

We are all part of the carbon economy and we are all involved in it moving towards increased efficiency, through the energy we use, through the things we are required to recycle, through the things we buy, and via the way we move about. We all leave carbon footprints, very often very large carbon footprints, and very often, even without realising it. So this too, affects nearly every aspect of our everyday lives.

Most people realise that reducing carbon emissions is an issue that is very important for us to concentrate on, important for us to do something about, important for manufacturers, for government and for everyone to focus on, if our children and grandchildren are to be spared the consequences of further climate change and the misery and costs that are associated with the consequences of procras-

We put your business first Our advice, support and expertise will help your business achieve its ambitions We are a trusted partner to 6,000 manufacturing businesses like yours across Britain. On any given day you’ll find us helping our members tackle a whole range of employment challenges.

That’s probably why they have consistently voted us the most useful provider of business advice, support and expertise for six years running.* Our expert teams provide advice and support on: • Human resources & legal matters • Health & safety • Environmental compliance & responsibility • Information & research • Training & development • Policy & representation Why not put our expertise to work for you?

Call us today on 0800 458 1500 to find out how we can benefit your business.

The manufacturers’ organisation

www.eef.org.uk * Voted most useful agency or organisation for the six years running in The Manufacturer’s Annual Manufacturing Report.

■ STILL FUMING: don’t be left in a jam by the move towards a low carbon economy

tination.

But are we as consumers doing enough to pressurise industry and manufacturers into providing goods and services that are produced in a more fuel-efficient manner? Probably not.

As at the present time, we’re probably more concerned about whether our savings or our pensions are safe, whether we’ll still have a job in six months time, or whether we’ll be able to pay the gas, electricity bill and mortgage this winter.

Hurricanes, floods, gales, “Wettest, dullest, coldest, period since records began” etc. are again, all terms we’ve become very familiar with in recent years. Whatever happened to balmy summer evenings? Cold, bright, crisp January mornings when the snow remained white and stayed around long enough for children and adults alike, to enjoy? Real autumns, when the falling leaves and autumnal colours weren’t shrouded in fog or obscured by horizontal rain?

These are the currencies of a low carbon economy, currencies that we should all be eager to invest in, currencies that will inevitably yield large dividends, if not for us, at least for our children or grandchildren.

So what is The Low Carbon Economy? – And why is it so important?

There is no universally accepted or entirely unambiguous definition of what constitutes the low-carbon economy he says but governments around the world are now getting very serious about climate change. They have to they have no choice.

The cost of global climate change is no longer just being measured in how many million or billion dollars are needed to clean up after a climatic event – the real cost is now also being measured in the increasing level of human suffering and increasing levels of the loss of human life that these climatic disasters cause. Disasters, which many, don’t believe are natural at all – they believe they’re man-made.

Many governments, including our own, view this cost as totally unacceptable not only from a political standpoint but also, obviously on humanitarian grounds. So the consequences for us all over the forthcoming decade will manifest themselves in terms of increasing “green legislation”.

Our government has set one of the most ambitious targets for the reduction of carbon emissions of all, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by 60% (on 1990 levels) by 2050. This is a tall order, and will inevitably prove expensive in the short term, but in the longer term will reap real benefits. In 2007 both the UK and the EU announced longer term and interim targets for the reduction in carbon emissions. The UK government’s Climate Change Bill proposes an

interim target reduction of 26-32% by 2020, whilst the EU is committed to cutting emissions by 20% by 2020 or 30% if a matching commitment can be made from other major non-EU emitters.

The three key areas where we will see increasing green legislation and demands for increased efficiencies will be low carbon energy consumption in manufacturing; motor vehicles and power driven transport ; and domestic energy consumption.

Estimates suggest that by 2015, the world market for environmental goods and services will grow significantly. In 2004 it was estimated to be valued at $548bn, by 2015 it is projected that it will be worth $800bn.

So there are many business opportunities for manufacturers to seize upon and develop now, not in five or 10 years time; Opportunities which should be viewed as precursors to green legislation being forced upon them. Action by manufacturers now will put them ahead of the game and will provide real benefits, not only in realising cost efficiencies, but also in providing significant advantages that socially responsible production processes can have on consumer purchasing habits and brand perceptions.

EEF came together with Deloitte Manufacturing Industry Group during 2008 to look at what business opportunities there were for manufacturers in moving towards a low carbon economy, how to exploit them and what types of EU or governmental funding is available to offset some of the initial capital costs that will inevitably be incurred.

This culminated in the publication of “Delivering the low-carbon economy – Business Opportunities for UK manufacturers” a detailed report outlining the issues and the opportunities for UK manufacturers to exploit. This publication is available at www.eef.org.uk However, EEF sees this opportunity as being of such importance that it is organising a Low Carbon Economy Summit which will bring together a number of key players, support organisations, funding providers, experts from the energy and environmental industries as well as leading manufacturers to discuss how best to exploit these opportunities.

Linking into the supply chains being formed can establish an early toehold in emerging global markets. Manufacturers in Yorkshire, Humberside and the north-east have proven that they can lead the way in low carbon technology.

For more information on the summit go to www.eef.org.uk/lowcarbon or call Greg Ward, EEF Washington on 0191 416 5656, EEF Sheffield on 0114 268 01671, or EEF Leeds on 0113 289 2671.

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Pigs & Bees win approved supplier status A MARKETING agency in Huddersfield has been appointed an approved supplier to businesses in the region.

Pigs & Bees Creative Marketing, based at Slaithwaite, has achieved the Suppliers Quality Assured Standard and has been listed on the Yorkshire and Humberside Brokerage Platform operated by Business Link Yorkshire and regional development agency Yorkshire Forward.

“We’ve always balanced working with larger national and international clients with helping start-ups and smaller businesses launch and grow,” said managing director Bob Taylor.

“Some of our smaller clients are our biggest champions, recommending us to people they deal with.

“Being appointed to the list of approved suppliers is further testimony to the effectiveness of the work we do.”

Pigs & Bees was formed in 2007 and employs five people.

Clients include Toyota Material Handling, West Riding Motor Group, BugBear Busters, Imagination Gaming and The Dental Care Centre.

Catching up on data capture A GROUP bringing together manufacturers from Kirklees and Calderdale focused on data capture technology when it met in Halifax.

The Calderdale and Kirklees Manufacturing Alliance visited the European Centre of Excellence for Automatic Identification and Data Capture to see how technologies such as bar coding, radio tags, smartcards and biometric identification can help aid manufacturing business.

The event was held at the Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre, Hopwood Lane, Halifax.

■ READY FOR WORK: some of the engineering apprentices at KITS in Brighouse

Firms buck trend to recruit trainees

ENGINEERING apprentices are in huge demand, a training company has reported.

Brighouse-based Kirkdale Industrial Training Services said it had seen “an unprecedented rise” in the number of Kirklees and Calderdale fir ms recruiting apprentices several months ahead of schedule.

C h i e f e x e c u t i v e D av i d Todhunter said: “Ordinarily, the recruitment process commences early in the New Year, but KITS has already placed over 50 apprentices with local businesses.

“We have continued our successful recruitment of school leavers with 90 starting on their apprenticeship programme this year – all of whom are of a high standard and eager to pursue a career in the mechanical, electrical, fabrication or motor vehicle disciplines.”

Said Mr Todhunter: “It is encouraging to see not only school leavers looking at an apprenticeship with such enthusiasm, but also to see businesses in our region recognising the need to recruit young people for the ongoing development of their companies.

“Activity in both the engineering and manufacturing sectors is buoyant and it is reassuring to see such a positive situation in light of the

alleged economic slowdown reported by the media.

“The recruitment of apprentices at such an early stage in their development would appear to support this, and demonstrate businesses are looking forward to growth within their own organisations.”

The upbeat assessment comes as the government unveiled a new initiative to help West Yorkshire manufacturers invest in the future by working with schools and colleges to deliver a pioneering new qualification.

The Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design, which will be launched in September next year, aims to equip 14 to 19-year-olds with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in industry.

The manufacturing diploma will be delivered by partnerships between local schools, colleges and employers.

In its first year, it will be available in 27 areas across England, including Bradford. Over the next two months, other manufacturing companies across West Yorkshire will have the chance to join new partnership groups bidding to start t e a c h i n g t h e d i p l o m a f ro m September 2010.

Membership campaign TONY Mucci, of Rastrick, has been appointed head of sales and marketing at Leeds-based healthplan provider LHF. Mr Mucci (pictured) will lead a 22-strong team and will be responsible for increasing LHF membership.

He began his career with Provident Insurance and has worked for other leading insurance providers in sales and marketing roles for 15 years before joiningh LHF. Mr Mucci has a diploma in marketing and a diploma in management.

The diploma will be taught alongside GCSEs and A-levels and will focus on three core themes – product design and science, business and enterprise, and production systems – with the option to study different manufacturing sub-sectors in greater depth.

Students will be able to apply the theory learned in the classroom to real work environments, for example by spending time in specialist colleges with high-specification manufacturing facilities and in the workplace. A minimum of 10 days work experience is an essential part of the diploma.

Helen King, project leader for the team developing the new diploma, said: “Companies have long spoken of the problems they face attracting young people into the sector and about the difficulties of finding skilled recruits who can add something to their business.

“The diploma offers the chance for employers to take action, by engaging directly with young people while they are still in learning.

“This early contact with young people will help businesses get a head start in picking out the brightest talents.”

7

Agency highlights shocking ways to cut down on waste

EMPLOYERS in Kirklees should use “shock” tactics to encourage workers to save energy and cut down on waste – by showing them the bills.

Environmental advice organisation Envirowise said bosses should disclose gas, electricity, water and recycling bills to employees to encourage them to take more responsibility for reducing company outgoings and reduce their environmental impact.

Elin Crebbin, Yorkshire regional manager for Envirowise, said: “The more transparent businesses are about the effect rising utility costs are having on the bottom line, the more staff will be encouraged to take a proactive stance towards minimising waste – and adopt the same approach to cost cutting in the workplace as they do at home.”

A survey by Envirowise showed that people committed to cutting waste at home were lapsing into bad habits as soon as they got to work.

A third of 1,80 office workers polled “took no action whatsoever” to reduce the amount of resources they use during the working day.

Said Ms Crebbin: “This research sends out a clear signal to businesses that good domestic environmental practices do not necessarily translate to the workplace.

“By ensuring gas, electricity, water and recycling bills are not cloaked in mystery staff will have a greater understanding of how their actions can help reduce costs. With the credit crunch continuing to bite, cutting costs by making more efficient use of resources and minimising waste has never been more important.

“Those businesses that make positive changes to reduce their environmental impact and reduce costs now will be better equipped to survive and thrive during the current downturn.”

Envirowise said simply measures to help cut bills included urging employees to switch off lights and computers at the end of the working day, installing self-closing taps to conserve water and reducing mains water usage through rainwater harvesting. Visit: www.envirowise.gov.uk or call the Envirowise advice line 0800 585794

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8

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Business in Brief

Rich pickings COLIN Rich has been appointed operations director for the Regional Food Group promoting the food and drink industry in Yorkshire. His appointment completes the senior management team – along with chief executive Jonathan Knight, company secretary Stephen King, commercial director Elizabeth Halsall and science and innovation director Sarah Knapper. RFG, formed in 2002, has received £4.1m funding from Yorkshire Forward to develop and deliver more services for the food and drink industry in the Yorkshire and Humber region.

Creative location CREATIVE brand communications agency Clearsilver moved to new premises in Leeds. The move to recently-renovated premises in York Street in the heart of the city’s cultural quarter follows growing client demand for the firm’s services, which include strategic marketing, public relations, e-commerce and design. Clients include ASDA.com, IT specialist SmartFixIT and St Stephen’s in Hull.

Wealth creators MORE than 40 representatives from the Kirklees professional community attended a wealth management seminar run by Shelley-based Robertson Baxter Financial Service. The event at Huddersfield’s Galpharm Stadium included speakers from Cazenove Capital Management, insurer Winterthur Life and investment and insurance group The Hartford. The event focused on guidance to professionals acting as trustees and operating with private clients.

All set for night of celebrations!

THE waiting is over!

Today we reveal the firms shortlisted as finalists in the prestigious Examiner Business Awards.

Now the countdown begins to the glittering awards evening next month, when representatives of the nominated companies will join leading figures from the town’s business community at the Galpharm Stadium to reveal the winners.

A high-powered panel of judges deliberated long and hard to draw up the final list from scores of hopefuls who have submitted their entries over the past few weeks.

The judging panel, comprised Jeremy Garside, managing partner with law firm and award sponsor Chadwick Lawrence; Prof John Thompson, professor of entrepreneurship at Huddersfield University’s Business School; Ken Gillespie, director of regeneration at Kirklees Council; Andrew Palmer, assistant regional director for the CBI in Yorkshire; and Henryk Zientek, business correspodent for the Huddersfield Examiner and editor of Kirklees Business News.

Awards will be presented in these 11 categories – New Business of the Year; Small/Medium Enterprise (SME) of the Year; Business of the Year; Community Award; International Business/Trader of the Year; Regeneration Award; Employer of the Year; Creative Enterprise Award; Green Award; Young Business Person of the Year; and Business Person of the Year.

The finalists are drawn from a wide range of sectors, including construction, computer technology, design and marketing, manufacturing, catering, leisure and retailing.

More than 60 entries were received – with past winners bidding to repeat their success alongside

NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: Lazarus Mobility (Aspley); ProperMaid (Marsh); Environmental Defence Systems (Kirkburton) SME OF THE YEAR: Andrew Jones Pies Ltd (Huddersfield); Swift Blinds & Curtains (Lockwood); Coopers Coffee (Bradley) COMMUNITY AWARD: The Pink Link Ltd (Netherton); Disposables UK Group (Meltham).

Temujin Restaurant (Milnsbridge) INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS/TRADER OF THE YEAR: Camira Fabrics (Mirfield); Novus Sealing Ltd (Cleckheaton); The Principle Group (Waterloo) REGENERATION AWARD: Heritage Exchange (Lindley); Sporting Pride Community Trust (Bradley Mills); Huddersfield University (Queensgate)

organisations making their debut in the area’s premier business awards.

Previous winners of awards in 2006 and 2007 are among those submitting entries this year – underlining the appeal of the competition and the value companies place on taking part.

There are no shortlists for the categories of Business of the Year and Business Person of the Year.

The judges have chosen a winner in each case and they will be revealed at the awards night.

The judges were impressed with the number of entries, the high standard of submissions and the range of achievements of companies across the town.

The 2008 awards will be presented on Thursday, November 13 at The Galpharm Stadium. BBC Look North presenter Harry Gration will host the event.

Tickets cost £50 plus VAT. Phone 01484 437702 for tickets.

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR: Above and Beyond Architecture Ltd (Huddersfield); Ploughcroft Building Services Ltd (Brighouse); FMG Support (Bradley Mills) CREATIVE ENTERPRISE AWARD: Inhouse (Huddersfield); QT Creative (Huddersfield); The Principle Group GREEN AWARD: Camira Fabrics; Holme Valley Camping and Caravan Park (Thongsbridge); Green Building Store (Golcar) YOUNG BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR: Chris Hopkins, of Ploughcroft Building Services Ltd; Santo and Marco Battaglia, of Battaglia Marble and Granite Ltd (Birkby)

Company’s on the right tack A COMPANY developing a new harness to move stubborn horses into horseboxes has galloped away with a £20,000 funding deal.

Equine Evolution (UK) Ltd has been handed the sum by Partnership Investment Finance to meet rising demand for the new harness from amateur and professional riders following its launch at the top equestrian trade show BETA International in February.

Shelli Perkins, owner of Equine Evolution and a former flat racing jockey in the USA, explained: “I developed the product when I was working with a highly strung 17-hand show jumper called Regency Showgirl.

“As you can imagine, sometimes it can be extremely difficult to coax a large stubborn animal like this into a horse box, which is why I designed the harness.

“It is a unique product, so it has generated lots of interest. We found that we needed additional capital to order stock to fulfil orders, which is where the PIF loan came in.”

Ian Howson PIF lending manager said: “Equine Evolution has an innovative product and a strong business plan to back it up.

“When they approached us, I was impressed by how passionate Shelli was about the product and by how much time, money and effort she has invested in it.

“I think the PIF loan has been the final

piece of the jigsaw, allowing the company to build momentum so it can have the success it deserves.”

Said Shelli: “Now we have the stock due to arrive shortly, I am really optimistic about the future of the firm.

“We are planning to launch two further new products at BETA international in 2009 and we will be travelling to trade shows in Germany, Dubai and New York.”

PIF is an investment fund aimed at supporting growing businesses in Yorkshire and the Humber.

It aims to encourage enterprise and economic regeneration by providing equity investments and loans to eligible businesses and has £10m worth of funds to invest before the end of 2008.

Alex McWhirter, assistant director of business at regional developmenr agency Yorkshire Forward, said: “This deal demonstrates that entrepreneurs with inventive ideas can still be successful, even during these tougher economic times.

“I think one of PIF’s greatest assets is its ability to recognise the potential of innovative businesses and to provide support.

“I would encourage businesses with a great product but which need additional capital to take the next step forward, to ■ MODEL IDEA: Shelli Perkins, managing director of Equine Evolution, approach PIF before the fund closes at the and Ian Howson, PIF lending manager, with a prosthetic horse modelling end of 2008.” the new harness developed by Equine Evolution (UK) Ltd

Caravan insurer on the shortlist CARAVAN and motor home insurance specialist Caravan Guard was shortlisted for the title of Customer Service Provider of the Year in the UK Broker Awards 2008.

Halifax-based Caravan Guard was named among the finalists after investing more than £1m in its custom-designed premises, training and technology in an effort to further improve customer service.

The nomination comes just months after Caravan Guard narrowly missed out on winning personal Lines Broker of the Year at the British Insurance Awards.

The UK Broker Awards was held on September 19 at The Brewery in London.

Yorkshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Legal People.

Sponsors of the HuddersďŹ eld Examiner Business Awards 2008

www.chadwicklawrence.co.uk

10

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

ON THE MOVE

New challenge for fire officer LAW firm Armitage Sykes has appointed two of its trainee solicitors as fully qualified assistant solicitors at its offices in Huddersfield and Brighouse.

Ryan Swann and Emily Barber have been appointed following the successful completion of their two-year training contracts.

Mr Swann is based at the New North Road office in Huddersfield working in the company commercial department. He joined the firm in January, 2007, after gaining a law degree at Sheffield University followed by a one-year Legal Practice Course at the College of Law, Chester.

Ms Barber, a former pupil of Shelley High School, will work in the family department at the Brighouse office. She graduated in English literature at Warwick University followed by a one-year conversion course to gain the Graduate Diploma in Law and a Legal Practice Course at BPP Law School in Leeds.

She joined Armitage Sykes in September 2006 and has gained experience working in all three of the firm’s offices across a range of departments including family law, wills and probate and residential conveyancing.

Health choice SUE Maude has been joined healthcare specialist Xiros in Leeds.

M s M a u d e ( p i ctured), a technical production specialist, who lives at Linthwaite, will work in validation, quality assurance and research and development.

She is a graduate of H u dd e r s f i e l d U n i-

versity, where she gained a BSc honours and previously worked for Piramal Healthcare in Huddersfield.

A FORMER chief fire officer has joined the board of change management and leadership consultancy SFL. Phil Toase has taken up the post after retiring from his role as chief fire officer of West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

He has also served on the Fire Service College board and advised the Government on senior appointments within the fire service as president of the Chief Fire Officers Association.

Mr Toase said: “I met with SFL during my time as chief fire officer and was surprised and impressed with what the company wanted to deliver to the fire and rescue service. I am delighted to be joining the board and helping shape SFL’s service delivery in the public sector.”

board at SFL

Three join marketing agency MARKETING consultancy Golley Slater has announced three senior appointments at its Leeds office.

Tim Orrell joins from Beyond1 as managing director of the marketing services and advertising division. He brings a wealth of client experience that includes Asda Hewlett Packard and Marks & Spencer.

The marketing services and advertising division has also been boosted by the appointments of Aidan Nicholson as account director and Nicola Hirst as senior account manager.

Mr Nicholson, who will

Karen rejoins agency

ADELE Barlow, of Longwood, has been appointed national projects manager for Improve, the York-based food and drink sector skills council.

In her new role, she will work with UK and European governments to tailor new initiatives to the advantage of food and drink manufacturers.

Ms Barlow (pictured) previously worked for organisations developing new learning programmes and qualifications. In her spare time, she is a fundraiser for Cancer Research.

Her first major project at Improve is to represent the industry’s bid to secure public funding for employee learning through the government’s Train to Gain initiative.

SFL chief executive and founder John Fay said: “Phil will help SFL build on its emergency services and Ministry of Defence practice and will also guide the company on other public sector issues such as social housing and local government.

Mr Toase, who has 34 years experience in the fire service, lives in Huddersfield. He was awarded the CBE for services to the fire and rescue service in 2004.

SFL was formed in 2003 and provides change management, leadership and development services for clients including Littlewoods Shop Direct Group, Lloyds TSB, 16 fire and rescue services UK-wide, LaFarge, ■ FIRE CALL: Phil Toase, former Superdrug, Zurich, Lloyds Phar- chief fire officer for West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, has joined the macy and the RAF.

R E C RU I T M E N T consultancy Stark Brooks has appointed former employee Karen Clements as part of its plans to expand in Yorkshire.

Ms Clements, who has five years’ recruitment experience, will re-join the firm as a part-time senior consultant and will work with a select number of accountancy firms.

During her previous spell with Stark Brooks, she was nominated for a regional recruitment award.

head the Proctor & Gamble account, joins from Poulters where he worked with clients including Pepsi, Kelloggs and GlaxoSmithKline.

Ms Hirst has 13 years experience in the industry h av i n g w o r k e d w i t h T-Mobile, Coca-Cola and Kiss 100 radio station. She will head the Army’s marketing account in the north-east, Yo r k s h i r e a n d t h e north-west.

Golley Slater has more than 50 people working at the Leeds office in marketing ■ NEW NAMES: Nicola Hirst, Aidan services, public relations and Nicholson (centre) and Tim Orrell join the dialogue marketing. expanding Golley Slater team in Leeds

Recycling expert YORKSHIRE Water has appointed Sean Brennan as head of waste and processing recycling.

Mr Brennan succeeds Bill Parker, who has taken on a new role as head of strategic asset management.

Mr Brennan joins the Bradford-based company with 17 years experience in the oil industry with BP, which he joined as a graduate engineer in 1991. His duties included project management, maintenance, engineer-

ing and operations management at the Grangemouth and Coryton oil refineries and an eight-month posting to BP’s Indonesian polyethylene project.

He became Air BP’s UK and Ireland operations manager responsible for all aspects of aviation fuel supply, operation and into-plane refuelling to the UK’s regional airports before moving on to become technology and services manager.

Gavin’s well-pleased EVENTS management firm Wellplease Events has appointed Gavin Newman as commercial director.

Mr Newman, 41, joins the company’s Leeds office from Camp Hill, North Yorkshire, where he spent five years as events director.

He has more than 20 years experience in the industry.

Wellpleased Events specialises in event organisation, live communication and brand marketing for clients including GE Money, Lloyds TSB, ASDA and KPMG.

Legally speaking VOLDI Welch has been appointed to head the personal injury department at Huddersfield law firm Ramsdens.

Voldi above), who hails from Huddersfield, was formerly a partner at Leeds firm Ison Harrison and has more than 15 years personal injury litigation experience.

The firm has also appointed Sarah Jessop, formerly of Manchester firm Linder Myers, to the commercial litigation team.

Laura Pollard joins the commercial property department from Slater Heelis Collier Littler, while Heather Nuttall joins Ramsdens’ Halifax private client practice specialising in wills and probate.

Newly-qualified Laura Beevers joins the matrimonial and family law practice.

Ramsdens has 14 specialist partners and more than 140 staff with offices in Huddersfield, Holmfirth, Slaithwaite, Elland and Halifax.

Called to the law ACCOUNTANCY firm BDO Stoy Hayward has appointed two people to lead and develop the fir m’s national court work strategy for the North.

Director Susan Berry and assistant manager Patricia O’Reilly join the Leeds of fice from Kroll, where they previously worked together.

Their new role sees them developing BDO Stoy Hayward’s court work offering in the North, which entails building on existing contacts, making new contacts and winning new court work appointments, such as bankruptcies and compulsory liquidations.

11

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Founders join in Freeserve’s birthday bash TWO of the founders of internet service provider Freeserve – Huddersfield businessman Ajaz Ahmed and fellow entrepreneur Rob Wilmot – have celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Mr Ahmed was inspired to set up Freeserve after he bought a PC from a local retailer and nobody in the store could tell him how to get onto the internet.

Freeserve helped kick-start the internet revolution by providing affordable access to the worldwide web by offering a free CD with every PC sold by Dixons.

In just three months of its launch in September, 1998, Freeserve became the largest Internet Service Provider in the UK. Nine months after its launch, it was floated on the London and New York stock exchanges with a market value of £1.5bn and at its peak was valued at £9bn.

The success of Freeserve launched the dotcom boom in the UK by dramatically increasing the numbers of people with internet access – resulting in the birth of many new e-commerce start-ups which have become established companies.

Mr Ahmed, who handled business development, and Mr Wilmot, who was responsible for technology and content, will attend a reception in their honour on Monday at the National Media Museum in Bradford.

Mr Ahmed, who lives in Huddersfield, said: “When we launched Freeserve, I don’t think anyone, including us, had any idea how big it would become and how much of an impact it would have.

“Before Freeserve, we were lagging behind the US in terms of internet companies and internet usage and without Freeserve, it may well have taken the UK a few more years to get the internet take-up that we required to remain competitive.

“Rob and I are proud that Freeserve’s roots were in Yorkshire and that all the infrastructure was based in the region.This had a ‘cluster’ effect and many more internet companies were started in Yorkshire as a result.”

Mr Ahmed added: “Freeserve has left a legacy that people still to this day have great affection for. Ten years on, we wanted to bring people together to reminisce and also to

■ FREE WHEELERS: Rob Wilmot (left) and Ajaz Ahmed

talk about the future of the internet.

“The National Media Museum is a fitting place to hold the reception as it is the national archive for all things media including film, photography, television, radio and new media.

“It is also about to embark on a brand new venture to create a gallery all about the internet, something that Rob and I are very excited about being involved with.”

Freeserve sold its shares to Wanadoo, a France Telecom company, in 2001 for

£1.65bn and at the time of sale had more than 2m active customers.

Mr Ahmed is a member of the council of Huddersfield University and has joined the board of the Media Centre in Huddersfield to promote the town as a location for more high-tech and creative companies.

The pair moved their business, Zestmedia, to the Media Centre in 2002. Mr Ahmed worked on the shop floor of Dixons for 16 years prior to the success of Freeserve.

Running your own business?.... this could happen to you...

■ HIRE STANDARDS: Sally Ramskill (third right) and Sarah Ainsie (second right), of Birkwood Plant Training Ltd, receive the Business of the Month Award from Steven Pollitt (centre), of Eaton Smith, with (from left) Anne Gerard, of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber; Alison Palmer, of Eaton Smith; Henryk Zientek, of Kirklees Business News; and Diane Crossley, of Peripheral Partners Ltd

Birkwood leads the way A COMPANY excelling in the field of plant and machinery hire has won an award for its efforts.

B i r k wo o d P l a n t H i r e , headed by Mark Ramskill, was named Business of the Month in the competition run

by Huddersfield law firm Eaton Smith and the Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

Mr Ramskill put customer service, product knowledge and staff training at the focal point of the business – ensuring that the company gave the best advice and training to customers to ensure they understood the

and could handle them safely.

He also realised that training was an important and growing sector. Keen to explore and address this gap in the market, he established the training division in 2005.

Plant hire and related training still remained the main drive of the business, but focused training took more of a central role when his wife Sally joined the business a year later.

The training arm grew rapidly as Wakefield-based Birkwood’s reputation spread.

Other markets and sectors were explored and Birkwood

with a range of utility companies, expanding its customer base.

“As a result, customers have been able to upgrade the skills of their staff.

Sally Ramskill said "We were delighted to win the Business of the Month award.

“We are a small company, but we have big plans and are very proactive.

“Winning the award is great recognition for the work that we do and just proves that you don't have to be a big company to look after your staff and have ambitious business plans!”

Federation of Small Businesses

Want to know more?...

Join us at our information evening On Thursday 23rd October, Briar Court Hotel, Birchencliffe, Huddersfield , HD3 3NT. 7.00 for 7.30p.m.

Meet members, enjoy light refreshments and have all your questions answered by our membership advisors

To book your place Tel: 01924 283548 If you can’t attend and want more information

Freephone 0800 652 8465

12

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

■ FACTORY SITE: Directors Bruno Jouan, David Clegg and Chris Elliott at the group’s premises in St. Thomas’s Road, Huddersfield.

The company is now looking to expand further overseas with sites in the USA and India

TOWN TALK Sean Jarvis

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A PRECISION engineering company is expanding into markets worldwide – with the opening of new factories in the USA and India.

VTL Group, which supplies components for the automotive and Industrial sectors has two sites in St Thomas Road, Huddersfield and one site at Luddendenfoot in Halifax, has just commissioned a new production facility in Charleston, South Carolina, to service its American customers.

The 20,000sq ft US facility, part of VTL’s Precision business, began operations last November and was officially opened last month by the Mayor of Charleston.

It now employs about 35 staff which will increase to 70 by the end of 2009.

VTL are also in the early stages of developing another factory at Dharwad, Karnataka, southern India, to manufacture items such as automotive transmission components and precision machined industrial components for clients in the Far East and in Europe.

To this end VTL acquired a five-acre site in, where it is currently building a 35,000sq ft factory to begin operations in July, 2009, as Uni-VTL Engineering PVT Ltd. The site will have enough space for a further 35,000sq ft production unit to be added when needed.

VTL Group was formed in November, 2001, by joint owners David Clegg, Chris Elliott and Bruno Jouan when they completed a management buy-out of French-owned Valeo Transmissions Ltd in Halifax.

The business expanded with the 2006 acquisition of precision engineering firm Taylor & Whiteley Ltd – which now provides the TWL name.

TWL Precision make components used in the manufacture of turbochargers.

TWL Engineering make large precision shafts, forge tooling, jigs, fixtures and compressor housings.

Customers include Cummins Inc – the US-based parent of Huddersfield-based Cummins Turbo Technologies – Flowserve, Weir Minerals, Kodak and Wabco.

In total, VTL Group has 270 employees, including 140 at St Thomas Road where it occupies a factory built on part of the former Brook Motors complex.

It has a further 95 employee’s in Halifax and 35 in the USA. Since 2001, it has invested more than £12m in the latest technology to manufacture components for turbochargers and synchronizer rings for manual transmissions.

as successful as we all hoped, it is early days and – as adverse to using football clichés as I am – it’s a marathon and not a sprint.

Everyone at Huddersfield Town and the supporters I have spoken with are all still very confident that we will be successful during this campaign which is, of course, our centenary season.

What the last few weeks have shown is that no matter how much planning you put into a certain area of a company, things do not always turn out as you expect.

Our core product is what happens on the field on a Saturday afternoon and it is rare that a company has so little control over the success of its core revenue stream. Behind the scenes, each department has targets to hit irrespective of whether we are top of the League or bottom and each department head, from tickets and corporate to retail and media, all have to demonstrate an ability to reach those clearly defined targets irrespective of the success of the first team.

Our customers, whether they are individual supporters or businesses, are fantastically loyal. We increased that loyal fan base significantly over the summer with a groundbreaking season ticket campaign which offered a full season of football for just £100.

Not only were we successful in increasing our customer base by over 100%, we did it by making our product affordable which has helped massively in the current climate, although none of us anticipated such a dramatic national economic downturn. In truth, attendances were dropping across the entire Football League and in that sense it was something that needed addressing.

Our season ticket policy has had other additional benefits for different areas of the business and not just the obvious such as merchandise sales. A potential captive audience of 16,000-plus supporters on a matchday and a customer database which has increased significantly over the summer is something which many local, regional and national businesses have been keen to tap into.

Over the past few months, companies have been contacting us wanting to take an advertising board, advertise in the programme or take advantage of our excellent corporate hospitality. This is particularly encouraging and demonstrates the strength of advertising at Huddersfield Town as advertising and promotion budgets are usually the first things cut when a company starts to tighten the purse strings.

Our success also comes from looking after our current partners, such as Casino Red, Yorkshire Building Society, Thomas Cook, Mitre and Subway, to name just a handful from a database that has over 1,000 company names. We recently took on an Affinity Executive to ensure that both sides get the most out of the partnership. Further to that, we are sending an offer to any business in the local area to contact us (0870 44 44 552) if they would be interested in ticket initiatives for their staff for targeted games during this season.

Sean Jarvis is director of business development at Huddersfield Town

13

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

BANKER'S BLOG Jill Hague

Manage your cash

N this month’s article I look at how you Imachinery can free up cash from plant and to help you manage your cash

flow better in today’s environment.

Hire purchasing or leasing your equipment is one way of making your working capital go further. Is equipment finance for you? Below are the main benefits that this form of funding can offer.

You can conserve cash and spread the payments over several years. Three to five years is normal, but it could be longer for some plant and machinery with a longer working life. Financing should not normally last longer than the expected economic life of the equipment.

You can tailor the timing of the payments to suit your expected cash flow. For example, you may be able to arrange an initial payment holiday or seasonal payments. You may be able to generate extra cash by selling and then leasing back assets you already own.

You can control your outgoings if taking a fixed rate deal. The same can be said for a variable rate deal with extended or reduced period depending on the movement in interest rates. You will know what your payments are going to be, right from the start (though changes in tax rates or allowances might affect your payments under a lease). Provided you honour the terms and conditions, the finance will be secure for the term of the agreement.

You need offer no extra security as the equipment itself is normally the only security on a finance agreement. Funding through a loan or overdraft might mean you need to provide extra security if your bank doesn’t already hold sufficient security. Finance agreements must normally be shown on your balance sheet (the exception being operating lease) as an asset and a liability.

If you do not want to own the asset at the end of the period, you could opt for a lease. With a finance lease, the asset is sold to a third party at the end of the agreement, and you receive most of the proceeds as an agreed rebate. Alternatively, you may be able to extend the agreement for another term, at a much lower cost. For example, the quarterly payment on the primary agreement might become the annual payment in the secondary period.

With an operating lease, you make lower payments in total but do not normally share in the proceeds when the equipment is eventually sold.

The tax position depends partly on whether the deal will eventually give you ownership of the equipment, and partly on your own tax position.

It is recommended that you seek professional advice on tax and funding decisions. You can normally claim capital allowances and can offset the interest element of the payment against your taxable profits in line with your depreciation.

If you opt for a lease agreement you wouldn’t claim capital allowances but normally you can offset the rental payments against your taxable profits. If you are VAT-registered, you can generally reclaim the VAT on the capital cost of the asset.

In summary, financing your assets makes a lot of sense be it to free up working capital, open up an additional credit line or address your tax position. Talk to us if this gives you food for thought.

Jill Hague is Head of Commercial Banking for HSBC in Huddersfield

Company’s open days A BRIGHOUSE firm staged an open house for customers and suppliers to mark the completion of work to extend and redevelop its premises.

Spring Vale Industrial Estate to manufacture key components in a “clean room” environment.

It has also built new offices for its engineering and service departments.

Asquith Butler mounted a three-day exhibition of its products, which include large capacity machining centres for customers in the aerospace, automotive and general engineering sectors in the UK, Europe, Turkey, the USA, Australia and New Zealand.

The company, led by managing director Paul Hinchliffe, was created with the merger of Halifax firms William Asquith Ltd, formed in 1865, and The Butler Machine Tool Company, established just three years later.

The open days follow a similar three-day event in 2006 to mark the first phase of development at the site, which included a new assembly area and test facility.

■ NEW LOOK: Asquith Butler Engineering co-owners Paul Hinchliffe (left) and Craig Wilkins in the new workshop at Brighouse

Good result!

A DEWSBURY firm displayed a range of skills when it installed the giant scoreboard at Huddersfield’s Galpharm Stadium.

Richard Alan Engineering completed the support steelwork contract on a 4-week “rapid response” basis for the near 30-metre high-definition scoreboard at the home of Huddersfield Town and the Huddersfield Giants.

Philip Armitage, operations manager Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd, which owns the site, said: ““In 2008, the decision was taken to replace our ageing scoreboard with a ‘state of the art’ digital display s c re e n , c o s t i n g ab o u t £175,000.”

“However, in order to mount the screen, a complex support frame was required.

We had an extremely short time span in which to design, construct and install both the framework and the screen, as we had to try to complete the work in between the football and rugby fixtures.

“Richard Alan Engineering rose to the challenge and installed the bespoke framework on schedule, which enabled us to install the screen on time.”

Edward Jennings, operations director for Richard Alan said: “We took a cumulative sharp intake of breath when we were first contacted and asked to undertake the steelwork contract.

“However, this sort of contract is what we’re good at – because we’re able to deploy the resources the Richard Alan Group effectively and at short notice. “ “After accepting the contract on a four-week rapid response basis, the new steel-

Marketing Design work was detailed, manufactured and painted at our works in Dewsbury – and the dismantling of the old scoreboard and the installation of the new was completed within a seven-day intense period on site in Huddersfield, by our senior operatives, Wayne Bragan, Andy Clark and Simon Catling.

“In addition, we were able to employ scaffolding from our group sister company, Scaffolding Access Solutions, and the skilled services of Wes Johnson and Dave Philp who run SAS.” “These engineers with their respective operatives pulled out all the stops and proved that being able to offer and control a turnkey project enables Richard Alan to provide customer solutions that are right first time.”

The work also won praise from Bob Kronman and Tonie Wishart, who head projects and installations for Display LED Screens Ltd, the company that supplied the screen.

Said Mr Kronman: “The quality and accuracy of the steelwork and the manner in which Richard Alan Engineering and Scaffolding Access Solutions worked with us was first class.”

■ SCORE LINES: Steelwork goes up as part of work to install a giant scoreboard at the Galpharm Stadium

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14

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Forward with new funding

TAX TALK Colin Barratt

Generating extra cash S the effects of the credit crunch A continue to bite, many homeowners are finding it difficult to meet their ever

increasing household bills.

However, there is the potential for many to use their main asset to generate much needed extra income to see them through the current financial crisis which could, in many cases, be tax exempt.

Under the rent-a-room scheme, an individual can be exempt from income tax on profits made from letting furnished accommodation in their only or main home if the gross receipts they get are £4,250 or less. Gross receipts include not just the rent but other income arising from letting such as the provision of meals, cleaning, laundry etc.

The rent-a-room scheme applies to the ordinary letting of living accommodation in the individual’s own home. It does not apply to rooms let as an office or for other business purposes. But the scheme applies to genuine lodgers who study at home or who do some of their business work at home in the evenings or at weekends.

The £4,250 limit may be halved if the individual owns their home jointly with another person.

If income exceeds the rent-a-room limit, the excess will be taxable but an individual cannot then claim any of the normal expenses of letting their property, such as repairs, utility bills and mortgage interest, to set against the excess.

It may be beneficial not to have the rental income treated under the rent-a-room regime but instead to have their letting income calculated on an actual basis, that is rents received less expenses incurred. This may be the case if expenses exceed the rental receipts and an individual wants to claim the loss to set against rental profits from other properties that they may let out.

An individual must inform HM Revenue & Customs that they have started to receive rental income from letting furnished accommodation in their only or main home. If the rent a-room regime applies, it will continue until they tell their tax office they want the actual basis to be adopted. The time limit for electing to be taxed on the actual basis is the first anniversary from the normal January 31 tax return filing deadline.

Where an individual is considering letting their home, it is advisable to obtain clearance to see whether their mortgage provider minds them taking in a lodger or their insurance company is satisfied that their cover is adequate.

On the eventual sale of the property, the individual’s normal capital gains tax exemption for any profit made on disposal is not jeopardised where a lodger lives as a member of the homeowner’s family, sharing their living accommodation and taking meals with them.

Similarly, no chargeable gain arises in respect of accommodation let out under the rent a room relief rules.

Colin Barratt is tax partner at Wheawill and Sudworth, chartered accountants, Huddersfield

■ BUSINESS MINDED: Labour MP David Blunkett (second left) and regional minister for Yorkshire Rosie Winterton (right) with fellow speakers (from left) Martin Smithhurst, managing director; Frank Haslam Milan; Andy Powell, chief executive for Edge; and David Harbourne, director for Yorkshire & the Humber 14-19 Challenge; at the Business in Schools launch event

Firms backing school link-up

KIRKLEES companies were among more than 100 employers from across Yorkshire attending the launch of a new initiative to help schools and businesses get together.

Rosie Winterton, regional minister for Yorkshire, and Labour MP David Blunkett were among speakers at the launch of Business in Schools.

The initiative spearheaded by education foundation Edge aims to help young people get ready for the workplace by encouraging more employers to provide work-related learning in schools and colleges.

Edge partnership director Jonathan Bramsdon said: “We conducted extensive research in Yorkshire & Humber among employers about working with schools and colleges and they called for more information and a dedicated website to help them.

“We hope our campaign will be the answer they’ve been looking for – benefiting both their bottom line and the local economy, while ensuring the workforce of tomorrow is better prepared and job ready.”

Ms Winterton said: “Employers tell me

that they are keen to get involved in education, but many of them are unsure how to get started. This new website fills that gap between the world of education and the world of work.

“For the first time, everything employers need to know about engaging in education can be found in the one place. Students will have a far more comprehensive range of opportunities for learning in the workplace and also benefit from bringing back to the classroom their aspirations and experience.”

Mr Blunkett added: “Closer connections between education and business are critical to the UK's economy and future prosperity, but also to the future of young people and changing their aspiration and knowledge of their future possibilities.

“I would encourage all employers in Yorkshire and the Humber to get involved with their local schools and colleges through Business in Schools – even the smallest investment of time can make a big difference to the life of a young person, and to a business and its local community.”

Visit the website at www.businessinschools.co.uk

A PROGRAMME to help Yorkshire firms boost sales and profits by improving their manufacturing systems has been awarded more than £1m to keep up the good work.

Following a successful pilot scheme last year, the Manufacturing Masters programme has received a further three-year funding deal from regional development agency Yorkshire Forward.

The programme gives manufacturers the opportunity to gain professional qualifications to degree and masters levels while tackling “real life” problems in their workplace.

Jim Farmery, assistant director of business at Yorkshire Forward, said: “Local manufacturers need radical change to keep pace with modern technological needs and skills shortages.

“Despite the continuous growth of the industry year-on-year since 2001, meeting the skills gap for ‘high value’ manufacturing is still proving a significant challenge for the vast majority of companies.

“It is estimated that over the next eight years, manufacturers in the region will have to train more than 3,000 of their existing workers in higher level skills every year if the region is to continue competing successfully in world markets.”

The pilot for Manufacturing Masters – run by YFM Business Development in conjunction with Leeds University and supported by Yorkshire Forward – helped more than 100 firms and 1,000 employees across the region.

YFM provides investment capital and business development services to small and medium-sized businesses across the UK. For the past six years, it has also run the Manufacturing Advisory Service in the region– helping Huddersfield firms including Milnsbridge-based Specialist Glass Products and Lockwood Christmas displays firm KD Decoratives.

Peter Faccenda, contracts manager at MAS, said: “Manufacturing Masters was launched in response to manufacturers telling us that they needed to have a highly skilled workforce with the knowledge and skills to solve operational problems and prepare their business for the future.”

Signs look good for winner BUSINESSMAN Mark Davies has notched up a hat-trick of success after his company won an award at an international event for the third year running.

Mark, who runs signs and graphics franchise business FASTSIGNS in Huddersfield, received the Growing Sales Achievement Award at the company’s 12th annual franchisee convention in Colorado Springs, USA. The award recognised the Leeds Road business for a consistent improvement in sales between two 12-month periods.

The business was one of just six UK award winners at the convention, which was attended by more than 500 delegates from FASTSIGNS centres in the USA, Canada, the UK, Mexico, Brazil and Aus-

tralia.

Said Mark: “I’m delighted that we have won this award because it is a fantastic way of thanking everybody here who has worked so hard.”

Mark took the plunge to start his own business three years ago when he was just 23. His father Trevor, who is also involved in the management of the centre, received a special mention for his work as a business mentor for new franchisees.

FA S T S I G N S H u d d e r s f i e l d provides signs, exhibition stands, posters, banners, shop fascias and vehicle graphics to businesses throughout the region.

Mark and Trevor were named Newcomer of the Year in 2006 and won an award for sales in 2007.

■ FAMILY FORTUNES: Mark Davies (left) and his father Trevor, winners of the growing sales achievement award at the FASTSIGNS convention

15

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Propaganda leads ‘hate crime’ fight

A CREATIVE agency headed by a Huddersfield man is spearheading a campaign to tackle hate crime and prejudice following the shocking death of a Lancashire girl.

Propaganda, chaired by Julian Kynaston, of Denby Dale, is handling the marke t i n g fo r S O P H I E , a c h a r i t abl e foundation set up in memory of 20-year-old Sophie Lancaster, who was murdered last year simply for being dressed as a Goth.

Propaganda will work in conjunction with Sophie’s mother, Sylvia, to promote the positive nature of different subcultures, to campaign for tolerance in society and to provide a lasting legacy for her daughter.

Leeds-based Propaganda is developing a full marketing and communications programme for SOPHIE – which stands for Stamp Out Prejudice Hatred and Intolerance Everywhere.

It will get under way in November with a UK-wide press and outdoor advertising campaign.

Mr Kynaston said the campaign is inspired by “Sophie’s love of life, her freedom of expression, her desire to be individual, and the positive way in which she embraced who she was”.

He said the adverts would celebrate her life, balanced with conveying the shocking reality of her murder.

On Saturday, August 11, 2007, Sophie and her boyfriend, Robert Maltby, were returning to their new home, walking through Stubbylee Park in Bacup, Lancashire.

A gang of teenage youths savagely attacked Robert without provocation,.

When he was beaten unconscious, they turned on Sophie who was cradling her boyfriend, trying to protect him.

Laughing and egging each other on, they kicked, punched and jumped repeatedly up and down on Sophie’s head. The police officer leading the inquiry described it as “one of the most violent murders he has come across in his lengthy career”.

Robert was in a coma with bleeding on his brain, but gradually recovered over the following two weeks. Sophie did not wake up and despite 13 days of hopes and prayers, Sylvia finally had to switch off her daughter’s life support machine.

The judge at the trial described the murder of Sophie and the attack on Robert

■ RIGHT: Host Gaynor Barnes Janet Watson, Clive Yeadon, Nigel Priestley, and Sarah Young, of Ridley and Hall Solicitors, receiving the award from Claire Rickaby

Janet Handley

Engaging employers MPLOYER engagement is an increasE ingly important aspect of the Government’s agenda for higher education and

■ MESSAGE BOARD: The poster devised by Propaganda for launch of SOPHIE, which was set up to combat hate crime following the murder of 20-year-old Sophie Lancaster.

Right – Propaganda’s Julian Kynaston

as a “hate crime” and “degrading humanity”. The five violent offenders received sentences ranging from four years to life, but showed no remorse in the dock.

On seeing the initial creative work for the campaign, Sylvia Lancaster, said: “I was so nervous before the meeting, but when I saw the work, it perfectly communicated the core message of the foundation, and how I want Sophie to be remembered.

“For me, it was really important to balance Sophie’s character as a sensitive, intelligent and caring girl, proud of who she was as well as conveying the horrendous and senseless circumstances of her murder.

“We have to hope that through the foundation we can change people’s feelings and misunderstanding of alternative subcultures and drive out the feelings of hatred that seem to plague our society. “ It would certainly be a fitting and lasting legacy for Sophie, who had so much she wanted to achieve and so much to give to the world – an opportunity that in life was pointlessly taken away from her.”

Said Mr Kynaston: “This has simply been the hardest job we have had to do and it is impossible not to get caught up in the emotion.

“We could have easily used disturbing images of Sophie in hospital that have been in the media to generate the shock factor, but Sylvia was rightfully adamant that the campaign should be positive and peaceful.

“Just seeing Sophie’s beautiful face both conveys the way that she lived her life and the shocking reality of what has been taken away.

“I am delighted that Sylvia has given us the opportunity to help work with the foundation, which continues to generate so much support and empathy on a worldwide basis. For us, this is the beginning and our determination to succeed has never been stronger.”

Legal prizewinners

■ ABOVE: Paul Judge, of Henderson Insurance Brokers, presents the award to Lorette Law and John Durkan, of Switalski’s Solicitors, with host Gaynor Barnes (second left)

UNIVERSITY VIEW

TWO law firms with offices in Kirklees have picked up regional awards.

Ridley & Hall and Switalski’s Solicitors were among the winners in the 2008 Yorkshire Lawyer Awards, held at Rudding Park, North Yorkshire.

Ridley & Hall, based at Market Street, Huddersfield, was recognised in the category for specialist law firm, w h i l e S w i t a l s k i ’s , w i t h offices at New Street in Huddersfield, Dewsbury, Wakefield, Leeds, Bradford and Halifax,won the award for the best law firm with one to 30 partners.

Nigel Priestley, senior partner at Ridley & Hall, was shortlisted for the title of Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year 2008 in recognition of his

work fighting claims on behalf of “kinship carers” who end up looking after the children of friends or family to stop them being put into foster care.

The annual awards, hosted

by Yorkshire TV presenter Gaynor Barnes, attracted more than 300 lawyers and other professionals from across the region.

Among other accolades, Neil McLean, of DLA Piper was named Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year 2008 in recognition of almost 30 years’ service to the legal profession.

Mr McLean is considered to be one of the north's leading real estate lawyers and has been involved in development and regeneration projects across Yorkshire.

re-skilling the workforce.

The Leitch Review (2006) identified the need for UK PLC to develop world class skills in order to compete in a global competitive environment. Leitch suggested that individuals, businesses and universities need to invest in improving skill levels through a collaborative process.

An exemplar of this is the Business School’s work with Royal Mail to address the organisation’s future development and workforce requirements. Following a competitive tender against 14 other institutions the university was selected to work with Royal Mail to develop an innovative and flexible way of meeting business needs. Staff from the Business School have worked closely with Royal Mail colleagues to conduct a training needs analysis followed by the development of a two-year Foundation Degree in Business Skills for HR. The degree was launched at Royal Mail’s training centre in Rugby in September this year and students have just spent a week at the university studying one of their first modules, Skills for Business. This module develops students’ understanding of commercial awareness and introduces them to the key financial aspects of business operations in addition to related software packages.

There was strong competition for the 20 places on the course within Royal Mail Group, with each place attracting between five and seven applicants, depending on the region within the business.

Students on the course have come from all over the country for a special block teaching session this week, leaving their offices for the university classroom. For some it marks a return to education after 30 years in full-time work and for many it’s their first ever taste of a higher education learning environment.

All of the students were eager to seize the opportunity afforded by the course and saw it as an essential learning experience and qualification to keep pace with rapid changes in the organisational structure and culture of the company.

One students Michelle Harris, a project manager based in Sheffield, said: “Development opportunities come round all the time, but there was a lot of noise around this course. As the first cohort of students we realise that we are high profile and that the company will be looking to see the benefits in the workforce and build on the success of the course.”

For Michelle, this is a return to university, but this time she feels better equipped to apply her learning to her current role. “The focus of this course is about learning skills and applying them. It’s exciting coming to university again and I’m enjoying it more second time around as I have my work and life experience to draw on.”

The Foundation Degree in Business Skills for HR is the second foundation degree offered by the Business School that has been designed in conjunction with a major employer. The Foundation Degree in Contact Centres was introduced in 2006 and delivered with cohorts of students employed at First Direct in Leeds.

Janet Handley is Head of Department of Leadership and Management at the University of Huddersfield

16 Adare on shortlist

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

MARKETING and customer communications specialist Adare has been short listed in a national awards scheme.

Adare, based at Clayton West, has been nominated in the category for creative use of alternative media alongside digital print in the Digital Printer Awards.

The company has been recognised for its bespoke online direct marketing application delivered for estate agency group Hamptons International.

In just 14 weeks, Adare presented an innovative digital printing solution, integrating a complete property database for each branch across the Hamptons network with a library of digital artwork and editing tools.

The bespoke reactive portal enables online data selection, artwork editing and proofing through to digital print, fulfilment and returns management.

Each branch can now conduct highly targeted direct marketing campaigns allowing personalisation at a branch level as well as adhering to centrally managed brand guidelines.

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■ WATER WORKERS: Leandra Trethewey, PR manager for Yorkshire Water, and Rob Salmon (centre), director of corporate affairs, receive the award from Don Clark, UK sales director for award sponsor Vocus

PR team win top trophy YORKSHIRE Water’s communications team has landed a top industry award.

The team was named na tional in-house PR team of the year at the Char tered Institute of Public Relations Excellence Awards – beating off competition from Camden Council, Westminster Council and The Financial Times.

The award was made at a ceremony hosted by

Channel 4 newsreader Krishan Guru Murthy.

The PR team was recognised for helping Yorkshire Water become Utility of the Year for three years running and its handling of criticism following severe flooding in Hull.

Yorkshire Water PR manager Leanda Trethewey said: “This is the first time we have won a national award of this kind and it is fantastic recognition for the team's

achievements after a busy year in the press office.”

Rob Salmon, director of corporate affairs, said: “The team has handled some tough PR and press issues over the last year and has done a terrific job of protecting and promoting Yorkshire Water's reputation.”

Yo r k s h i r e W a t e r ’ s in-house PR team is also shor t-listed for eight regional CIPR Pride Awards.

Getting a grip on company finance

KIRKLEES business people who want to improve their grasp of finance now have a new qualification available to them.

The Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales is intended to widen access to the profession.

It is aimed at aspiring finance professionals looking to undertake a rigorous, i n d u s t r y - b e n c h m a r ke d qualification, as well as providing a stepping stone for those considering the ICAEW’s full Associate Chartered Accountant qualification.

Andrew McConnell, director of finance at Huddersfield University and president of Huddersfield

Andrew McConnell Society of Chartered Accountants, said: “Market research by the Institute identified that many already in business want to increase their career prospects with a

grounding in finance and accounting.

“CFAB is a stand-alone qualification which will appeal to those with the potential, but not necessarily the academic or vocational experience, to take the ACA in its own right.”

The qualification comprises the six modules from the ACA professional stage – business and finance, management information, law, assurance and tax – with accounting at the core of the syllabus.

Each module can be tackled at the candidate’s own pace, allowing employees to build their study around work commitments.

Assessment is online, with learning undertaken either through self-study or tuition over a 12-month period.

Send e-mail greetings KIRKLEES firms have been urged to save cash – and benefit the environment – by sending e-mail Christmas cards this year.

Environmental advice group Envirowise said small and medium-sized firms across the UK were likely to spend £94m on buying and posting greetings cards this year – creating 20,000 tonnes of waste card in the process.

Since 2005, more than 130,000 e-cards have been sent free of charge

through the Envirowise website – saving businesses more than £50,000 on postage, card and envelope costs as well as saving more than a tonne of paper.

The e-card system offers users a choice of 13 designs which can be branded with business logos and personalised with individual messages.

To preview designs and send your e-cards, visit http://www.envirowise.gov.uk/card

Viewing the future TWO Huddersfield-based communication specialists are providing a glimpse intio the future – with a special event at the town’s Galpharm Stadium.

Message4it and UK Phone Solutions have joined forces to stage Tomorrow’s World Today on Friday, November 7.

Andy Earnshaw, marketing director for Message4it, said: “We want to demonstrate that communication technologies that will be part of everyday business, social and personal life in the future are actually available today – and those businesses that embrace these technologies can gain significant competitive advantage over their rivals.

“The event gathers together businesses that deliver leading-edge visual, audible and mobile communication products, together with three industry specific ‘futurologists’ who have the vision to understand how products available now and in the near future will be used by businesses and will affect us all.”

Mr Earnshaw said: “This is not a head in the clouds sci-fi event – it is an event which deals with commercial issues and should provide a valuable insight for all types of businesses from all industry sectors.”

The event will include an exhibition featuring companies including T Mobile, Blackberry, message4it, UK Phone Solutions, creative agency Fantastic Media, asset management specialist Qrganise, display screen technology firm Displax and Reality Communications.

Speakers include Richard Butterfield, managing director of global branding business The Principle Group; Ian Byfield, communications manager at the Automatic Identification and Data Capture European Centre of Excellence; and Gregory Davis, UK channel account manager for Blackberry.

To attend the event, visit www.towoto.co.uk or text “mt” to 07967 603060.

Let’s pray for rain!

FIRMS in Kirklees have been urged to cut their water bills – by collecting rain.

Environmental advice body Envirowise said companies across England and Wales used enough water each year to fill more than 2.6m Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Now businesses in Yorkshire are being asked to consider rainwater harvesting as an effective way to cut back on mains water usage and reduce costs.

Rainwater harvesting systems enable the collection, storage and use of water to reduce dependency on mains supply and safeguard operations in the event of potential water shortages and price hikes.

Rainwater can be used for flushing toilets and as cooling water in manufacturing processes. Locations that can benefit include hotels and pubs, nurseries, garden centres and sports grounds.

Elin Crebbin, Yorkshire regional manager for Envirowise, said: “By utilising the rainwater that falls on the roofs of your site, you can reduce demand for mains water and assist local drainage by limiting the volume of rainwater reaching the ground.”

Envirowise has published a water fact sheet that helps businesses find out if rainwater harvesting is suitable for their property.

The fact sheet takes businesses through simple steps to help work out the amount of water they use, the maximum water that may be harvested in a year and the cost benefits. Visit www.envirowise.gov.uk/publications

17

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

PROPERTY FOCUS

Don’t forget to claim for rate relief

Move goes to plan A COMPANY providing advice on town planning matters has opened a new office in Huddersfield.

Manchester-based Higham & Co has set up its first Yorkshire office at the Heritage Exchange Centre in Oakes to meet the needs of a growing client list across West Yorkshire.

The new office will be managed by Andy Keeling, who joined the firm from Kirklees Council two years ago.

Higham & Co managing director Peter Higham said: “With our resources and Andy’s local knowledge, I have no doubt that the new office will be well-received by existing clients and, of course, new clients.”

Said Mr Keeling: “I know the West Yorkshire area well and look forward to serving a wide range of clients.”

In addition to planning ser-

vices, Higham & Co wil be offering property services to clients ranging from major plcs to individual property and landowners.

■ NEW FACES: Higham and Co has opened new offices at Heritage Exchange in Oakes, Huddersfield.

Pictured are (from left) senior partner Peter Higham, partners David Highton and Jane Worsey, associate partner Andrew Keeling and partner Matt Waugh

KIRKLEES business owners have been urged to make sure they claim for small business rate relief.

Shafiq Khan, partner at Clough and Co, who advises start-ups and SMEs, said many small businesses eligible for a rate rebate were not aware of the scheme introduced in April, 2005, to give businesses based in properties with low rateable values the opportunity to ease the burden.

Research from the Local Government Association suggests that fewer than half of the 870,000 small businesses across England which qualify for the scheme have applied for it.

Said Mr Khan: “With recent controversial changes to Empty Property Rate Relief and the current economic climate, it’s critical that SMEs are aware of all the support that is available.

“As with any Government

scheme, the SBRR is not straightforward and complicated paperwork puts many SMEs off.

“However, start-up firms are the backbone of our future economy and it is more critical than ever that small businesses are aware of what they are entitled to and are applying for rate relief correctly and on time.”

Mr Khan said: “The abolition of the relief will hit disadvantaged areas hard, create financial insecurities for companies currently in possession of empty properties and – I believe – is just another a stealth tax on businesses. I “t is naive for the Government to think that empty properties can be let within three months – especially in the current economic climate.

“No landlord benefits by keeping a property empty.”

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18

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

PROPERTY FOCUS

PROPERTY VIEW

Agency parcels up new contract

Paul Andrew

Everything energetic ROPERTY owners, landlords and P tenants alike must take note of the requirement introduced on Octo-

ber 1 stating that it is now compulsory for all commercial buildings to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

The EPC has been introduced in stages, starting in April this year when buildings with a total floor area of more than 10,000sq metres were required to have one.

As from July 1, this extended to buildings with a total floor area greater than 2,500sq metres.

However, an EPC is only required when the building is constructed or prior to marketing either for sale or to let. It is the responsibility of the person selling or renting the building to have a valid certificate to show prospective buyers and tenants.

Upon occupation, the EPC must be given to the eventual buyer or tenant.

Any properties on the market before and remaining on the market after October 1, 2008, must provide an EPC to the purchaser/prospective tenant as soon as possible after exchange of contracts. If the property remains on the market after January 4, 2009, an EPC will be required immediately so that this can be shown to prospective purchasers and tenants.

The certificate is valid for 10 years or until a new EPC is prepared which is usually when there has been significant alteration to the premises.

For a building to fall within the requirement of an EPC, it must have a roof and walls and use energy to condition the indoor climate. Those buildings which do not have heating do not require an EPC. The introduction of the EPC is part of the government’s aim to improve energy efficiency and it is hoped that tenants will increasingly seek premises which are more energy efficient.

The government requirements also state that an EPC should be prepared for each part of a building which is to be offered separately for sale or to let. Therefore, individual units which do have a heating installation will require individual EPC assessments.

The penalty for failing to make an EPC available to a prospective purchaser/tenant when selling or letting a non-domestic property is fixed at either 12.5% of the rateable value of the property subject to a minimum fine of £500 up to a maximum fine of £5,000. Individual breaches will be penalised separately.

The EPC does have a positive aim to improve the energy efficiency of industrial and commercial buildings throughout the country. The real question however is whether EPC’s will have an impact on the desirability of properties to potential purchasers/tenants or whether they will simply add additional costs to vendors and landlords and place further burden on the commercial property market already struggling affected by the current economic uncertainty.

Paul Andrew is Head of Agency at the Huddersfield office of chartered surveyors Eddisons.

■ MOVING IN: A computer image of Folly Hall Mills, viewed from the neighbouring Waterfront Quarter development

First tenants for Folly Hall project A MILL development on the edge of Huddersfield town centre has secured its first two tenants.

Historic Folly Hall Mills is being converted into high-quality offices in a £6m scheme.

Now Huddersfield-based architect practice Above & Beyond has confirmed it will take two floors comprising 4,715sq ft of at the grade II listed mills, which overlook the river Colne at Folly Hall.

The firm, which has a staff of 12, will move its operations to Folly Hall from the Media Centre at Northumberland Street in November.

And Dewsbury-based Jay Tee Group, which is developing the mill, is taking one floor at Folly Hall Mills, accounting for 2,300sq ft of space. The company also plans to a move in November.

It means that more than 70% of the smaller mill is now let. There are still two 2, 300 sq ft office suites available. Work to convert the larger mill get under way in November.

Andrew Stoddart, managing director of Above & Beyond, said: “We are delighted to be moving into our new offices in November and recognise that being located in a stunning converted building will create a powerful impression

to clients about how we can make a difference to their business.

“The space will act as a showcase office, allowing us to adopt 21st century ways of working including ‘hot-desking’, flat screen technology and a dedicated ‘creative space’, intended to promote free thinking. It’s an exciting way to launch into our second decade of business.”

Folly Hall Mills is being transformed into 60,000sq ft of modern 21st century offices in two phases.

The development was officially launched by Clr Ken Sims, cabinet member for regeneration at Kirklees Council.

The Jay Tee Group has reported a “very encouraging” list of enquiries in the old woollen mill, which has been vacant since 1993.

The group bought the property in 2005 from Amco plc for a sum exceeding £1m. The mill was previously owned by Kirklees Council.

Jay Tee project director Paul Bailey said: “We are delighted to welcome Above & Beyond to Folly Hall Mills, which we feel is a tremendous development for Huddersfield.

“It will involve significant regeneration of the riverside area, creating new employment oppor-

tunities and raising the profile of Huddersfield as a major office destination in the region.”

He said: “Altogether, there is 60,000sq ft of prime office space over five floors, which can be leased or bought. This space can be divided into office units from 2,000 sq ft upwards.

“We feel they will prove very attractive to professional services firms of all sizes, as well as to the public sector. We love it so much we have moved here ourselves.

“The interior of Folly Mill is absolutely stunning – with vaulted ceilings, spiral staircases and exposed beams. It will be an absolutely wonderful place to work.

Phase one has involved the conversion of the first of the two riverside buildings, with phase two starting shortly.”

There is also consent for a 2,500sq ft restaurant on the ground floor, which will service the office development and also be open to the general public.

The development will feature a new steel and glass structure linking the two historic mills with the old engine house to create a single office building with underground parking.

The joint agents for the scheme are Eddisons and Michael Steel & Co.

Building firm changes name A MAJOR construction company has changed its name.

HBG Construction, the firm which built Huddersfield University’s creative arts building becomes BAM Construction from next Monday, linking in with its European parent company, Royal BAM Group.

HBG Construction has undertaken a string of developments across Yorkshire, including buildings for the schools of education and human and health sciences at Huddersfield University, Leeds Grammar School, Leeds Metropolitan University and Selby College.

Other projects include ones to restore Leeds City Varieties and build offices and stores for clients including BT, ASDA, Tesco and Marks & Spencer.

HBG’s facilities management business, which manages services for Wharfedale and Doncaster Hospitals, is re-branded BAM FM.

SANDERSON Weatherall has won a major contract with Royal Mail to provide estate management services for its prope r t y d iv i s i o n a c ro s s northern England.

The contract, which was won following a competitive tender, encompasses services from the firm’s property management, landlord and tenant and planning teams across the Leeds, Newcastle, Manchester and Teesside offices.

David Rastrick, director at Sanderson Weatherall, said: “We have worked with Royal Mail for the last four years and this further contract win is particularly gratifying as it is a clear reflection of the quality of service we offer our clients.

“We have a great deal of strength across the north of England and look forward to continuing to utilising our experience to the benefit of Royal Mail.”

Jonathan Green, of Royal Mail, said: “The tender process was very competitive but the depth of Sanderson Weatherall’s knowledge and understanding of our business was evident and we are delighted to welcome them back on board.

“They will be a valuable resource for our business.”

Lettings for Leeds PROPERTY agent DTZ has completed another key office letting in Leeds.

Acting on behalf of of Harrogate based Solvgrin Ltd, DTZ has completed an office letting to Maria Mallaband Care Group at Westcourt on Gelderd Road.

MMCG has taken a 10-year lease on confidential terms on the ground floor of the Carey Jones designed building comprising 7,625sq ft.

The top-grade office space has been fitted out

by Leeds based shopfitters Avanta UK, to provide a new head office for MMCG.

A BUILDING industry boss has won a top construction award.

Garvis Snook, chief executive of Yorkshire building and maintenance company Rok, has been named Real Estate and Property Services Entrepreneur of the Year.

The award was presented at accountancy firm Ernst & Young’s annual UK Entrepreneur of the Year Awards and recognises Mr Snook’s achievements in creating a nationwide network of building and maintenance operations built on the quality and talents of its people.

The presentation was hosted by actress Joanna Lumley at the annual dinner at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London. It featured more than 35 finalists in eight different categories – all described as having “achieved their potential, building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses”.

Rok, which has carried out a number of schemes for Kirklees Council, has offices

in Rotherham, Wakefield, Leeds and Malton, North Yorkshire.

Its directly-employed workforce in engaged in building and maintenance work in the education, social and affordable housing and insurance sectors.

Said Mr Snook: “This award goes to the heart of our people-first philosophy.

“We focus on the people who build and look after our buildings and make their employment experience great for them, asking them, in turn, to look after our customers. This is testament to them.”

He said: “As a forward-thinking business we have adjusted focus to reflect the changing market, which has created a sustainable organisation for the 21st century.

“The recent launch of our new business stream, Rok Plumbing Heating and Electrical, is indicative of this approach and reflects the increasing amount of maintenance contracts we are winning across the UK.”

Hotels checking in to a greener future

A COMPANY in Huddersfield is helping hotels book in to save water.

Green Building Store, based at Golcar, has provided water-saving toilets to two hotels in Sussex as part of a project run by Brighton-based environmental consultancy Ecosys.

And being water-wise is expected to save the hotels about £96,000 a year in water costs.

The Chatsworth Hotel in Worthing and Deans Place Country Hotel in Alfriston have replaced a number of their conventional toilets with ultra-efficient WCs from the Green Building Store.

Other saving measures being taken by the hotels include installing sensor controls in the urinals and fitting flow restrictors to taps.

Ecosys spokeswoman Nancy Bluck said:

“We wanted to show businesses how easy it is to increase profit and help save energy and water simply by using resources more efficiently.

“The WCs from Green Building Store were specified because they had already proved to be robust and reliable in high usage settings and we have not been disappointed. We are delighted with the results, which show that the hotels have saved more than 4m litres of water between them over the course of a year.”

Green Building Store has been a leading manufacturer and supplier of sustainable building products since 1995. The company has been shortlisted as a finalist for the 2008 Sustainable Housing Award.

Ecosys is an independent not-for-profit environmental consultancy set up in 1998 in Brighton.

developmentdevelopment development

Building industry boss gets award

industrial retailretailretailretail

■ ROK REWARD: Garvis Snook, chief executive of building and maintenance firm Rok

officeoffice office

PROPERTY FOCUS

eddisons.com

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FOR SALE

5,024 m² (54,083 ft²) Substantial former dyeworks complex. Suitable for a variety of uses (subject to consent). Prominent frontage to A62 Manchester Road

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0.19 ha (0.47 acres) Planning consent for conversion to form 10 three/four bed town houses. Semi rural aspect. OIRO £220,000

Land at St Andrews Road Huddersfield FOR SALE

0.51 ha (1.5 acres) Surfaced car park with provision for approx 100 vehicles Located off St Andrew’s Road (B6432) a short distance south of A62 Leeds Road. Suitable for a variety of uses, subject to consent

The Other Rooms 41-45 Queensgate, Huddersfield FOR SALE

538.29 m² (5,792 sq ft) Prominent Bar/Restaurant Premises. Suitable for a variety of uses. Close to Kingsgate Shopping Centre/ University of Huddersfield

43 Market Street, Huddersfield TO LET

93.47 m² (1,006 sq ft) Rent reduced. Current A2 planning consent. Suitable for a variety of uses subject to planning

Unit A Prospect Works Bradford Road, Brighouse

TO LET

200 m² (2,153 sq ft) Brand new industrial/workshop unit. Generous eaves height of 6.5 m. Immediately available

Unit 10 Pennine Business Park Huddersfield FOR SALE / TO LET

232 m² (2,500 ft²) Unexpectedly re-available. Popular Bradley Business Park location. Ease of access to M62 motorway Contact Paul Andrew or Philip Deakin

01484 533151

Oak House New North Road Huddersfield HD1 5LG

Birmingham Bradford Bristol Glasgow Huddersfield Leeds London Manchester

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Eddisons

20

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

PROPERTY FOCUS

Factory site for sale

A MASSIVE factory site is up for sale in Huddersfield.

An eight-acre stretch of land at Turnbridge – formerly occupied by the Dresser Roots engineering works – has been put on the market by Leeds-based property consultant Dove Haigh Phillips acting for owner US-based Dresser Inc. The site at Turnbridge Road, off St Andrew’s Road, Turnbridge, has been cleared after a demolition programme over the past few months. It stands next to a factory and technical centre used by turbocharger makers Cummins Turbo Technologies.

Mike Dove, director of Dove Haigh Phillips, said: “We expect strong interest in this site.

“Despite challenging conditions in the UK property market, the supply of good quality commercial and industrial development land within Huddersfield is extremely limited.

“This site is well located close to the town centre and is of sufficient scale to support a substantial employment creating development for the town’s economy.”

Mr Dove said the site was also important given proposals for large-scale developments nearby – including the HD One scheme to provide leisure facilities alongside the Galpharm Stadium and the Waterfront Quarter to regenerate industrial land at Folly Hall.

He said: “The surrounding area is emerging as a focus for a variety of new development proposals, reflecting the rising profile Huddersfield as a highly attractive location for occupancy and investors.”

Cummins had been linked to the site last year when a report to Kirklees planning officers suggested the company wanted to transfer some of its operations from the west side of St Andrew’s Road.

But a spokeswoman for the firm said: “We have looked into it as a possibility, but the decision was

■ ALL CLEAR: The former Dresser Roots site (levelled site in right foreground) at St Andrew, Road

made that it was not right for us at this time.”

The Dresser site has been part of Huddersfield’s manufacturing sector since 1850 when WC Holmes Ltd set up a factory to make industrial air blowers. At its peak, the company employed 1,000 people and even as recently as the 1990s there were 250 workers.

The firm changed its name to Peabody Holmes

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before being bought by US-owned Dresser Roots in 1990, but the factory closed a year ago with the loss of almost 60 jobs when manufacturing ceased and sales, servicing and repair operations moved to another Dresser site in Lancashire.

Dresser Roots makes blowers and compressors for use in a wide range of industries at sits in the USA, the Middle East, China and Mexico.

Lettings agency opens doors A NEW lettings agency has opened its doors in Huddersfield.

Wigwam Lettings hopes to help property owners maximise the return of income on property which remains unsold in the stagnating sales market – as well as offering existing or aspiring landlords a new customer-focused approach to letting.

Managing director Paul Hollingsworth, who had years of experience in the lettings market in London and Leeds, said: “I am committed to providing an inclusive and tailored service, doing everything possible to take the stress out of letting.

“I am very encouraged by the response I have received from existing contacts and the number of new landlords.”

Redrow builds up hopes for prizes T WO i n i t i at i v e s t o improve the skills of employees at Redrow Homes have been shortlisted in the 2008 Housebu i l d i n g I n n ovat i o n Awards.

A development programme to “home grow” future site managers and an awareness and training programme to improve the quality of the design of Redrow developments have both been shortlisted in the category for best training or staff initiative.

The awards, devised by the Home Builders Federation and Housebuilder magazine, aim to recognise firms which demonstrate a commitment to innovation i n t h e h o u s ebu i l d i n g industry. The awards are supported by the Government.

Winners will be announced at London’s Millennium Mayfair Hotel on October 23.

■ ALL FIGURED OUT: Eurocell Building Plastics has opened its 90th branch – in Huddersfield, with manager Dan Richardson (left) and Tony Gunby

New branch is opened A NATIONAL building products firm has opened its 90th branch – in Huddersfield.

Eurocell Building Plastics has bucked the gloomy trend for the sector with the move to the Leeds Road Mini Park close to the town’s Galpharm Stadium.

T h e c o m p a n y, w h i c h t a r g e t s installers and the DIY trade for its range of roofing plastics and exterior fixtures and fittings, has opened all 90 of its branches in less than five years – from

Inverness in the north to Truro in the south and also in Ireland..

Northern divisional manager Paul Dixson said: “To open our 90th depot is a great achievement and one of which we are particularly proud.

“It demonstrates that despite a challenging market, we are confident about the future, mainly because customers are drawn to our competitive prices, excellent ser vice and extensive product range.”

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

21

PROPERTY FOCUS

Far from retiring!

A RETIREMENT complex in Holmfirth has won an award from the building industry.

Brockholes-based Conroy Brook Developments has been highly commended for its Holme Valley Court development at Huddersfield Road.

The award was made by the Yorkshire and Trent region of the Federation of Master Builders and means that the project was considered by judges “to be of the highest standard available in the industry”.

Holme Valley Court provides 44 one and two-bedroom apartments set in the grounds of Holme Valley Memorial Hospital. Since it opened in April, 50% of apartments have been sold with a further 30% reserved.

The development features landscaped gardens with walkways, seating, artwork and a specially commissioned water feature at the entrance to the building. Each apartment is fitted with emergency alarm call and

video phone entry. The complex also has CCTV and intruder alarms.

Richard Conroy, director of Conroy Brook, said he was delighted to win the award – which coincides with the launch of the firm’s Somersby Court apartment development at Somerste Road, Almondbury.

The scheme has 30 two-bed flats with features including distinctive curved glass balconies and granite kitchen worktops.

The complex has an energy-efficient heating system using a combination of electricity and renewable energy from the atmosphere to reduce heating costs.

Despite the economic climate, Conroy Brook is having a busy year. Among other developments, is it providing a care unit for the Hollybank Trust alongside the Holme Valley Court scheme to provide accommodation for young people and adults with profound disabilities and associated learning difficulties.

■ WINNING WAYS: Huddersfield-based Conroy Brook Developments has been awarded a highly commended certificate from the Federation of Master Builders for its Holme Valley Court retirement development in Holmfirth

Residential property still in big demand RESIDENTIAL property proved popular at the latest northern property auction staged in Leeds by Eddisons.

Out of 39 residential lots on offer, 24 were sold. Total sales amounted to £3.3m.

Among the lots attracting most interest, the grade II listed Fearnville House at Roundhay, Leeds, was sold on behalf of Leeds City Council for £228,000 off a guide price of £50,000.

The commercial category performed less well with 23 of 39 lots offered attracting buyers and

■ VALUE: Auctioneer Tony Webber

achieving total sales of £3.6m.

Eddisons auctioneer Tony Webber said: ‘The pattern of recent auctions has continued with buyers responding favourably to the more realistic pricing and revised seller expectations of residential lots, which are clearly seen as offering good value for money.

“On the other hand, the commercial sector remains subdued and seems to be taking the brunt of the current economic uncertainty due to highly restrictive bank lending.

Other successful lots included a former farm at M e a n w o o d , L e e d s, which achieved £159,000; land on the site of a former school at Pool in Wharfedale, which sold for £100,000; land with planning permission for 12 houses at Toftshaw Lane, Bradford, which realised £450,000; and the former park keeper’s cottage at New Wortley recreation ground in Leeds, which went for £96,000.

The Star, Roberttown Lane, Roberttown. Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Star Inn up for sale A LIVERSEDGE pub is on the market with licensed property agent Christie + Co. The Star Inn, a fully refurbished, food-led pub at Roberttown Lane, dates back to about 1800.

The detached propertyincludes an open plan, split-level main bar to seat 88, a designated dining area with conservatory overlooking the garden and a 50-cover function room with its own bar on the first floor. There is also an owner’s flat with single bedroom, bathroom, lounge and laundry room and a trade car park.

Jonathan Booth, of Christie + Co in Leeds, said: “Our client, Ian Cowling, carried out a major internal revamp of the Star Inn in November, 2007, transforming the public house into a stylish eatery which attracts a loyal local trade as

well as being a drive-to destination for food and for drink. He has now placed the lease on the market in order to purchase a freehold pub.”

Said Mr Booth: “Even though food is highly important to the business, there is scope to expand trade in all areas, in particular to make more use of the function room, extend the opening hours and introduce entertainment.

“All in all, this is a property that has all the ingredients for a highly successful leasehold operation.”

Christie + Co is seeking offers in the region of £55,000 for the leasehold interest in the Star Inn. The premises are held on a 30-year lease from Enterprise Inns, which started in May, 2003, with a current annual rent of £37,908.

Businesses abandoning costly offices BUSINESS owners in Huddersfield are abandoning expensive commercial premises to work from home, it is claimed.

Software support firm Ulysses IT, said new technology was enabling more bosses to cut the costs associated with running offices.

A survey of more than 500 small businesses discovered that two-thirds of business owners were thinking of closing their premises to run their business from home.

The survey blames the credit crunch and rising cost of commercial premises for the move.

Ulysses director Malcolm Pow said: “With mobile broadband, you can now use a laptop anywhere virtually as fast as you can in an office.

“Mobile devices such as Blackberrys allow you to deal with email on the move – and internet phones mean you can take and make business calls anywhere you have an internet connection.

“These tools have made it so easy to professionally operate a business anywhere, you can see the attraction of reducing the cost base significantly by dumping premises.”

One in 10 firms surveyed by mobile phone giant O2 said they had chosen not to renew a lease in the last eight months – in order to work from home or remotely.

Of the two-thirds that were planning to leave business premises, eight out of t10 said they would do it to reduce costs.

Nearly half of Britain’s 4m small businesses are already run from home. It is thought this will rise to 60% this year.

Said Mr Pow: “During a credit crunch, not having expensive premises could be the difference between surviving and thriving. And when times are good again, the reduced cost base means a lot more money in the pocket of the Huddersfield business owner.”

Ulysses IT specialises in computer support for locally. The business was established in 1998 and operates as an “outsourced” IT department for clients.

First letting at retail site PROPERTY adviser Colliers CRE has announced the first letting at a new retail centre in Leeds.

Fashion chain TK Maxx has been taken a 49,000sq ft unit at Broad Gate – the former Allders building being redeveloped on The Headrow.

Developer Highcross said the scheme would provide four large retail units totalling 120,000 sq ft at lower ground, ground and first floors.

TK Maxx has secured the largest of the four new retail units in the prominent 1930s building at the beginning of this year. When it opens in late autumn, it will occupy both the ground and lower ground floors.

Colliers CRE has also secured a deal for the UK’s leading home retailer, Argos on a 25,000 sq ft unit situated on the ground and lower ground floors.

Sainsbury’s will also open an 18,000 sq ft grocery and convenience store, which is expected to be open in time for Christmas.

Tom Cullen, director at Colliers CRE in Leeds, said: “The commitment to take occupation from these well known brands is testament that Broad Gate is a key retail location.”

PROPERTY FOCUS

Region’s land values halved

THE value of development land for housing in Yorkshire has almost halved over the past year, said a survey.

Figures from property agent Knight Frank showed that brownfield land – former industrial sites – had plunged by 49% in value while greenfield land had fallen by 48% in value. The figures were the worst for any UK region in the Knight Frank Residential Development land Index.

Jon Neale, head of development research, said: “Over the past year, developers have put their land acquisition activities on hold, which has dramatically reduced demand for sites.

“Developers have found it almost impossible to access finance to buy land, while the pronounced slowdown in the sale of new homes has prompted them to reconsider the size of their future needs.

“Many are selling sites to raise cash and bolster their balance sheets, which has dramatically increased the supply

of land on the market, further depressing values.”

Mr Neale said: “There is evidence that many other vendors have not yet come to terms with the changed market conditions and have unrealistic expectations of what price their site can achieve – particularly if it was bought at the top of the market.”

Julian D’Arcy, head of residential development in the north of England for Knight Frank, said it was hoped that regions suffering the earliest and most dramatic falls, such as Yorkshire and Humberside, may be among the first to see recovery.”

And he added: “While land values are falling, the fundamental outlook for the north of England for the longer-term remains positive.

“Despite the current market difficulties – which have mostly been caused by a lack of available finance for both developers and purchasers alike – the fact

remains that there is still demand for housing in the region, especially for quality developments in good locations and a more diverse mix of housing, particularly family homes.

“Those that are brave enough to purchase land at the present time may well find themselves in a golden scenario of securing their land-bank at a highly competitive margin when stability returns to the market.”

Although developers and housebuilders now account for 29% of vendors, government agencies and local councils remain the largest source of supply, providing 31% of the market.

The index also highlights the important role of the Housing Association sector during the current downturn.

Outside the capital, they now represent 30% of all acquisition activity – compared to just 16% for private sector developers.

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23

November, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Funding for rural retailers

EMPLOYERS' BRIEFING Neil Wilson

Time to be ‘age aware’ CASE heard in the Glasgow A Employment Tribunal has highlighted the pitfalls of employers making

comments and business decisions based on the age of their employees.

The claimant in this case was 62-year-old and the first complaint he raised was when an appraisal document stated “ambition is not a motivation for Joe (due to his age).” During the subsequent grievance meeting his manager, far from attempting to resolve the situation, commented that it was difficult to justify his salary given his age. He also stated “you’ll be waiting for death.”

The company attempted to justify this treatment of the claimant by stating it did not intend to discriminate on the basis of his age.

The tribunal held otherwise and gave a finding that he had been subjected to harassment on the basis of his age.

The case highlights the need to train all employees to ensure such comments are stamped out and treated as wholly unacceptable remarks. Age must also not be a consideration in employment decisions e.g. when deciding whether to award a pay rise or not.

The age discrimination regulations in force in the UK allow employers to compulsorily retire employees at 65, subject to a detailed procedure being followed. Heyday, an organisation connected to the charity Age Concern, has challenged the legality of the default retirement age, and this challenge has been sent to the European Court of Justice to rule on.

An opinion has now been given by the Advocate-General; these opinions are followed by the ECJ in about 80% of cases, but a final decision is not expected until early 2009.

It is opined that the ECJ should dismiss Heyday’s claim that the default retirement age is unlawful. He comments that the retirement age is not incompatible with the Equal Treatment Directive from which the age regulations derive and that a “general justification” defence will suffice for an employer wanting to retire an employee at 65 or above.

Employers should treat the opinion with caution; further clarity will be brought to the exact legal position in a few months time. For now though, the opinion will give Employers cautious optimism about the legality of the default retirement age.

A recent review of the flexible working regulations has led to the Government accepting a recommendation to extending flexible working rights to parents of older children. The right is due to come into force in April, 2009, and will benefit a significant number of workers in the UK. The Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform will now consult on issues relating to the implementation of these changes. It is proposed that the right to request flexible working for children up to the age of 16 will be introduced in a single step rather than a phased implementation, and part of the consultation is to ask for businesses views on how the administrative burden of responding to requests can be managed and reduced.

Neil Wilson is an Employment Lawyer at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors

■ SCHOOL REPORT: Eddie Rogers, chief executive of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, has demanded a review of the education system amid concerns that many youngsters are failing to achieve basic skills needed by employers

Chamber call for education review

A MAJOR review of the education system is needed to improve the basic skills of school leavers, claimed a business leader in Huddersfield.

Eddie Rogers, chief executive of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said proposals to force all teenagers to remain in education unless they had training places or jobs to go to would do nothing to help those disillusioned by schooling – or improve their literacy or numeracy skills.

The Government’s Education and Skills Bill seeks to make it compulsory for teenagers to remain in education, training or employment until the age of 18.

Mr Rogers said various government initiatives since the 1970s had tried and failed to address the problem of young people being unable to enter the labour market due to lack of basic skills.

He said: “It is unacceptable that nationally, and particularly within our region, some 40% of school-leavers do not have basic skills in reading, writing and counting – let alone any other practical qualifications or training.

“This problem needs to be tackled head-on with a complete review of our education system. If young people are already disengaged from education and failing to attend school at 16, it is highly unlikely that these measures to force teenagers to stay in education will have the desired effect.

“Employers in this country have a great track

record of helping young people to continue training in employment – but can only do so if the young people presenting themselves for jobs have the right attitude and basic skills to enable them to benefit from vocational training.”

Steven Leigh, head of policy for the Lockwood-based chamber, said: “Ministers have correctly identified that the UK has a major problem with young people who are not in employment, education or training.

“But threatening 16 to 18-year-olds with financial penalties, fines, attendance orders and youth courts is more likely to further alienate them than inspire them to raise their own expectations and self-esteem.”

Mr Rogers welcomed government plans to achieve 400,000 apprenticeships in learning by 2020, but said: “So far, there is no indication that the government will change funding mechanisms to allow business and industry to successfully implement the proposals.

“The government must recognise that the success of legislation will depend on the response of business and young people. The schools system needs to be reformed so that young people come out of it with basic skills which businesses and employers can help build upon and develop.”

RURAL shops businesses on the outskirts of Kirklees are set to benefit from a six-figure funding boost.

Regional development agency Yorkshire Forward is spending £170,000 on a pilot programme to help rural retail businesses diversify and add to the services they offer.

Under the Rural Retail Support Programme, successful applicants will get up to £10,000 to pay for specialist advice and help meet investment costs to develop their business for the future.

The programme – aimed at businesses of all sizes and at any stage of development – will be managed by Business Link Yorkshire, which has offices at the Textile Centre of Excellence at Red Doles Lane, Huddersfield.

Andy Tordoff, head of rural renaissance and tourism for Yorkshire Forward, said: “Yorkshire Forward aims to support the development of rural businesses and encourage them to diversify to meet the needs of their customers and local community.”

Helen West, chief executive of Business Link Yorkshire, said: “Rural retail businesses often need to operate with a greater flexibility than their urban counterparts s they are often the only local service provider.

“The programme aims to work with existing businesses to ensure that they offer a wide range of goods and services to their customers.”

Tel 08456 048048 or visit www.businesslink yorkshire.co.uk

Easy Computers adds new names A COMPANY selling computers via the internet has added to its online armoury.

Easy Computers, based at Deighton, has acquired two new websites selling electrical appliances and security cameras – in the process recruiting five additional staff and boosting its total workforce to more than 100 employees.

The company has completed the purchase of kitchen equipment retailer www.appliancesdirect.co.uk and has launched CCTV and security website called www.iviewcameras.co.uk in the space of a few days.

Managing director Nick Glynne said: “There are two ways to approach a recession – cut costs or expand. We have chosen to expand.

“We’ve seen so many of our competitors already fall, but luckily for us we have a strong business model and a great team here in Huddersfield.

“I believe that any business offering great value will thrive in a slow down and with this in mind we've launched two new websites this year specialising first in kitchen appliances and now in CCTV.” Mr Glynne said there was a ready market for cheaper CCTV equipment, claiming: “CCTV shouldn’t be as expensive as it is. Also, new technology means it is easy to set up yourself without the need for an expensive installer.

“With tough times ahead, it’s likely that crime will increase so it makes good sense to look after your business and protect

your home.

“People often think it will be too technical or complicated to set up but the truth is anyone can set it up and we provide you with all the support to help you every step of the way.”

Mr Glynne said he was optimistic about the future, adding: “We have three more websites due to launch in the next year. We are still on track to grow by 25% in the next 12 months, despite the slowdown.”

Easy Computers Ltd, based at Trident Business Park, Leeds Road, already sells computer equipment, air conditioners and TVs via websites Laptops Direct, AirCon Direct, Servers Direct and Direct TVs. Last year, it made its third appearance in the regional Fast Track 100.

WE BRING BUSINESS FACE TO FACE WITH BUSINESS

Suma puts top advice on the web

Cleaner way of working THE office isn’t generally regarded as the dirtiest type of workplace.

But Computer Cleaning Week has highlighted the fact that bacteria ls lurking on keyboards, telephones, door handles and lift buttons.

In fact, the average office door handle or lift button can harbour nearly 400 times more bacteria than most toilets.

Yet, research suggests that only 8% of full time workers wash their hands when they arrive at work each morning – meaning that all the bacteria picked up their way in is being put straight onto their office equipment.

This will ultimately lead to an increase in bacteria within the workplace that can cause the spread of micro organisms such as E.Coli, C-Difficile and MRSA. Staff at Huddersfield-based Ask Strategic Marketing and Research joined forces with Katie and Sophie Hastelow, of BugBear Busters, to ensure that the Ask office stayed hygienic.

‘BugBear Busters offers a bespoke IT and communications equipment cleaning package tailored to customers’ specific needs.

Research by YouGov also showed that 50% of full time workers wash their hands no more than four times during the working day – although experts recommend washing your hands at least 10 times a day to minimise cross contamination of

■ HYGIENE SQUAD: BugBear Busters Katie and Sophie Hastelow get to work on cleaning the work station at Ask Strategic Marketing and Research during Computer Cleaning Week office bacteria.

Some 50% of female respondents power up their computers before washing their hands compared to 42% of men.

Bacteria in the work place does not only affect workers, it can also be a costly

affair, resulting in deterioration of office equipment performance or even total breakdown.

The survey found that the keyboard is the dirtiest item in the office – while other survey findings suggest that sickness absence costs UK firms £11.7bn a year.

AN Elland firm is providing top tips for other businesses.

Wholefoods company Suma, based at Lowfields, is one of 100 companies enlisted to share their stories and provide advice to other firms via a new online service developed by Royal Mail.

The new website asks businesses to fill in a short questionnaire and analyses the information to provide free “growth packs” containing advice, relevant product and service recommendations as well as case studies from other companies of a similar size and type to theirs.

Advice provided ranges from information on finding new customers and keeping existing ones to tips on saving time and money.

The online service – available at www.royalmail.com/growth - is part of Royal Mail’s nationwide Partner for Growth campaign celebrating success and supporting growth among the UK’s 4.4m small and medium-sized businesses.

As well as providing recommendations to other businesses through the growth packs, an in-depth case study of Suma outlines some of the challenges the business has faced, as well as employee Dan Norvell’s top tips for success.

Said Dan: “Suma has benefited enormously from the right advice given to us at the right time. In the last three years, our green business annual turnover has greatly increased and one of the tools used was a carbon-neutral mailer.

“By being part of this campaign, we can share the benefits of our collective experience with other entrepreneurs and support others in meeting their growth plans.”

Suma Foods is the UK’s largest independent wholefood wholesaler and distributor – specialising in vegetarian, fairly traded, organic, ethical and natural products.

Firms finding a place for talent

Yorkshire’s Legal People.

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K I R K L E E S e m p l oye r s providing top quality work placements for students could be in line for an award.

Nominations are being sought from business leaders, students and careers advisers for the National Council for Work Experience 2008/9 Awards.

Last year, regional development agency Yorkshire Forward won the public sector category in the awards, which recognise employers who provide undergraduate work experience.

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The awards feature 11 categories covering organisations of all sizes in the private, public and charitable sectors.

This year’s competition includes a category for the best work experience provider for overseas students studying in the UK. NCWE director Heather Collier said providing good quality work placements played a big part in retaining talented young people in the region.

She said: “We have found that students who take part in

quality work placements locally are more likely to return to the host area – and in some cases the same organisation – after graduating, rather than migrating to the bright lights of London.”

Organisations can apply online at www.work-experience.org/awards.

The closing date for entries is December 12, 2008.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on March 5, 2009, in London.