Kirklees Business News, October 2008

October, 2008

232

Firms must make more of e-mailing KIRKLEES firms have been urged to improve e-mail systems – after a survey claimed that up to 60% of businesses fail to reply to customers’ messages.

The survey by marketing organisation Strike Force Sales showed that six out of 10 e-mails sent to companies are “totally ignored”.

Even sending an e-mail stressing you want to buy the company’s product doesn’t get a fast response – with only 7% of firms ringing the prospective customer to secure the sale. In some cases, firms took three days to follow up the inquiry.

The survey also showed that companies with an automated e-mail response system promising a reply from a member of

staff never actually sent it.

Malcolm Pow, a director of computer support firm Ulysses IT, said: “It’s basic customer service to reply to people when they get in touch with your business and something you have to get right all the time.”

“The problem is that a lot of businesses suffer from high levels of unwanted spam e-mail. Customer e-mails can get caught up in the middle of that spam.”

Mr Pow said: “Kirklees businesses wanting to get more sales from their customers without doing any extra work should put technical systems and personal checking in place to ensure an e-mail from a customer is seen, labelled as a high priority and dealt with immediately.”

■ ROAD GAME: Sean Jarvis (left), director of business development at Huddersfield Town, and Richard Allen (right), managing director of The Pink Link, present Sally Peckett with her shirt after she won a competition to name five Pink link trucks after her football heroes

Town legends!

KEEN Town fan Sally Peckett has won a competition to name five trucks after her football favourites.

Sally, 38, who lives at Longwood, took part in the contest run by Netherton-based haulage firm The Pink Link.

The company, one of Huddersfield Town’s major sponsors, ran its competition to allow supporters to name five of the company’s 10 new trucks.

An email invited Town fans to submit the names of their top five players of all time.

More than 10,000 emails were sent out and thousands of Huddersfield Town supporters entered the competition.

Now five of the firm’s striking new trucks will bear the names of Sally’s all-time Leeds Road legends – Trevor Cherry, Andy Booth, Steve Kindon, Frank Worthington and Denis Law. The vehicles will be out and about on local roads shortly.

Sally was presented with a signed Town shirt by Sean Jarvis, director of business development at the club, and Pink Link managing director

Richard Allen.

The presentation was made at the Galpharm Stadium and attended by Sally’s 15-year-old son Jake and his girlfriend Galena Boothroyd, 14.

Mr Allen said: “We’re delighted that a fan like Sally won our competition. She’s Huddersfield born and bred, a lifelong Town supporter and season ticket holder.

“The competition worked in conjunction with The Pink Link Ltd’s sponsorship at The Galpharm Stadium to help encourage local pride in Huddersfield’s sporting legends.”

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October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

COMMENT

by

Henryk Zientek HE Government has decided its TWith time to act in the housing market. home buyers struggling to get a

foot on the property ladder and homeowners facing crippling mortgage costs, it was clear that something had to happen.

But while measures such as a stamp duty “holiday” for property purchases up to £175,000 and an extension of shared equity schemes may help kick-start this vital component of the UK economy, there seems precious little assistance for businesses.

The point is well made elsewhere in this issue by Eddie Rodgers, executive chairman of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, who thinks a corporation tax “holiday” of sorts would do wonders for our hard-pressed smaller firms. He also suggests scrapping the “daft” decision to impose business rates on empty commercial properties.

In part, the problem may be one of perception. While everyone can see that a stagnant housing market and higher home loan costs hit individuals directly, the business community does not play the “people factor” nearly as well.

Never mind that companies employ millions of people, generate billions of pounds for the UK economy and makes a massive contribution to the Treasury – “business” should shut up and get on with it. That seems to be the message.

The Government will no doubt be accused of having half an eye on its ratings in the polls when it announces measures to help house buyers and homeowners. It should no forget that there are plenty of votes in backing business, too.

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

Inside Issues

● Nursery firm opens stores – page 4 ● Wise moves to go “green” – page 5 ● Polish trip for Andel team – page 7 ● Learning from the Olympians – page 8 ● Ceiling firm hits heights – page 10 ● Independent Education – pages 14-16 ● Site managers win awards – page 24 ● Rok’s school work – page 25

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS IS MAILED FREE OF CHARGE TO NAMED INDIVIDUALS IN ALMOST EVERY BUSINESS IN KIRKLEES Editorial

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FINANCIAL REPORT

Failing to clean up at the housework THE hidden value of unpaid housework has been revealed in a survey.

Figures from Yorkshire Building Society suggest that if people in the region were paid for the chores they do around the home – like cooking, cleaning, shopping, gardening and DIY – they would be earning £150.67 a week or £7,834 a year.

Nationally, the hidden value of domestic chores stands at more than £462bn a year – with the average weekly “wage” totalling £151.23 and the average “salary” at £7,834.68.

Yorkshire Building Society, which has its roots in Huddersfield, polled more than 1,500 customers to find out how much housework they do each week – then applied the hourly rate typically charged for such work as cleaning, cooking, ironing and

caring to find out the vale of their unpaid work..

The average working week is 37.5 hours, but the survey showed that Britons spend half this time again – 16.5 hours – on unpaid household chores. That takes the average working week to 54 hours.

Cooking and DIY were the most costly weekly household tasks at £20.49 and £19.09 respectively.

Cooking is also the job Britons

spend most time on – 2hrs 22mins – followed by cleaning 1hr 56mins), gardening (1hr 48mins) and grocery shopping (1hr 47mins).

The survey showed that women spend more time than men on weekly unpaid household chores – 17hrs 39mins against 15hrs 53mins).

Among the UK regions, people in the north-east spend the most time on domestic tasks at 17hrs 23mins a week.

In Yorkshire, people typically spend 16hrs 27mins a week on domestic jobs.

Asked what would happen if they were unable to carry out these tasks due to illness or injury, some 58% said they would expect their partner to do them – in addition to their own share of the chores.

Almost one in five would rely on family while only 8% would hire someone to do the work.

Tanya Jackson, corporate affairs manager for the building society, said: “It is easy to underestimate the value of work carried out around the home.

“However, the fact that this work accounts for £462bn in the UK every year highlights that people must take into consideration the limitation on time and finances that would occur if people were unable to continue carrying out these duties.”

Success adds up for workers FOUR members of staff at a Huddersfield insurance broking business have passed key exams.

Helen Leadbeater, Sarah Sugden, Lydia May and Michelle Kulyn, who work for Eastwood and Partners at Northumberland Street, have passed professional examinations organised by the Chartered Insurance Institute.

They have all gained credits towards the Certificate of Insurance with Michelle passing the threshold required to gain the qualification.

Lucy Hodgson, human resources manager at Eastwood and Partners, said: “The training and development of our staff is extremely important to the success of the company and we are very pleased that they have passed these examinations.”

Eastwood and Partners now has more than 80 staff based in Huddersfield, Elland and Sheffield providing insurance broking, risk management and financial services.

■ TOP STAFF: Eastwood and Partners staff (from left) Helen Leadbeater, Sarah Sugden, Lydia May and Michelle Kulyn, who have all passed key exams with the Chartered Insurance Institute

Care homes firm sold in £15.3m agreed deal A HUDDERSFIELD firm running 10 care homes across Yorkshire has been sold for £15.3m.

Valeo Ltd has been sold to CareTech Holdings PLC, a stock market-quoted company providing care services for disabled people and others with learning difficulties.

Deighton-based Valeo Ltd provides a range of specialist services for adults with learning difficuties, including residential care and supporting living schemes.

Valeo opened its first home

in 1991 and set out to work with and support the needs of people who are often excluded from main stream community living. The company was formed as a partnership, but became a limited company in 2004.

In Kirklees, the company has properties in Birkby, Milnsbridge and Cambridge Road in Huddersfield and at Temple Road, Dewsbury. It also has sites in Sheffield and one in Barnsley.

CareTech Holdings was formed in 1993 and had sales

of £53.1m in the 12 months to September, 2007.

It has more than 150 residential care homes and four day care centres mainly in southern England and the West Midlands.

Alison Palmer, corporate partner at Huddersfield law firm Eaton Smith, who acted for the sellers, said: “I have been involved with Valeo for a number of years and have witnesses their impressive growth, which has resulted in the successful sale of the company.”

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Where everything clicks MILLIONAIRE businessman Ajaz Ahmed was on hand to launch a new website for the National Coal Mining Museum at Caphouse, near Grange Moor.

Huddersfield-based Mr Ahmed, who founded internet service provider Freeserve, joined museum director Dr Margaret Faull and former Labour minister Baroness Morris for the launch of the website, which provides information about the museum and the colliery site.

It includes a virtual tour of the museum, information on events and a run-down on facilities for school parties and corporate events.

Mr Ahmed developed Freeserve, which was launched by retailer Dixons in 1998. About a year after its launch, Dixons sold it to France Telecom’s Wanadoo for £1.5bn and by 2000, the business was worth £9bn.

Mr Ahmed remained as business development director at the company until April, 2001, when he left to pursue other business interests. He is a board member of several companies as well as being a member of Huddersfield University’s governing council.

Baroness Morris held ministerial posts with the Department for Education and Employment, latterly as Secretary of State for Education and Skills, before becoming Minister for the Arts at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. She was made a life peer in 2005.

Dr Faull said: “We are delighted that the eminent IT entrepreneur and founder of Freeserve agreed to mark the completion of our project and launcht he website for us. Visitors were able to see the website in action.”

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Keep open lines of communication

KIRKLEES firms have been urged to resist cost-cutting which could hit their communications with key targeted customers.

Steve Williams, sales director at Clayton West-based direct mail firm Adare, said some businesses were doing more harm than good by cutting costs in customer communications in their bid to combat the impact of the credit crunch.

He said: “While cutting the level of interaction with existing and prospective customers may deliver some initial savings, the true negative impact could be far more severe in reality – costing, rather than saving the business money.

“There is clear justification that if companies execute planned and targeted direct marketing campaigns, especially during economic uncertainty, this will enhance their

acquisition and retention revenues thus easing overall pressures.

“Companies should focus on identifying key prospects and clients who have the propensity to purchase more of their products, thus maximising the opportunity for aggressive customer acquisition as opposed to fading into the background.”

Mr Williams said consumer choice had never been greater.

“With this in mind, companies need to deliver more expedient, relevant and most critically cost-effective communications to their target audiences if they are to maximise revenues,” he said.

Businesses should invest in data as a prerequisite to maintaining maximum return on investment across all customer communications, the company said.

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October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

TECH TALK Roger Pearson

Crunching the costs YEAR on from the start of the credit A crunch in the financial sector and as the UK Business Confidence Monitor

records confidence at a record low, here is a view from inside IT. Small and medium-sized businesses facing the credit crunch are in many cases seeking efficiencies and cost savings.

Prices are continuing to rise in many sectors and IT is also affected to some extent with transport, raw material and exchange rate costs filtering through from manufacturers to resellers and then to end users.

On the positive side though, Yorkshire and northern England more broadly continue to be the most optimistic in the latest UK Business Confidence Monitor survey.

So, as perhaps budgets need to be re-thought, what part then can IT play in supporting our businesses when times are tough?

Well, as perhaps is happening in other parts of your business focus can turn to getting the most from existing assets and consolidating costs where possible.

From companies seeking cost consolidation, convergence of IT and telephone systems has and continues to receive significant interest and is indeed one of the most effective consolidation technologies.

While perhaps a large investment at this time may not be ideal for some companies, for those of you that can invest there are offers from vendors seeking to inject life into their sales cycle which represent good value.

Because of the economic climate, there are also some vendors offering 0% finance to help minimise the initial outlay for cash strapped firms.

Costs can be reduced by merging IT and telephony support fees, eliminating call costs between offices and reducing line rentals with VoIP based services.

As well as consolidating costs, connecting telephone and computer systems in this way enables significant process improvements positioning firms well for future growth.

We are also hearing reports of and seeing directly an increasing number of queries for more flexible IT support arrangements.

Maintaining a stable and secure system continues to be the top priority, but the focus of other projects is shifting towards changing existing systems to support improvements in the business process.

Integrating your business systems with clients, suppliers and business partners can significantly reduce costs and speed up the flow of business from its initial entry as new business to invoicing and payment.

Look for repetitive tasks or form filling – these are instances where IT can return the biggest efficiencies.

Similarly to the convergence of smarter IT and Telephony this can also be an ideal preparation for firms looking forward to future growth.

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

Adding a bit of bite at Batley centre SOMETHING fishy’s been happening at The Mill in Batley.

A 20ft fibreglass shark heralded the arrival of fishmonger Fish Direct to the Manna food hall at the Batley retail complex. The new outlet offers more than 100 products in fresh and frozen fish and seafood.

Owner Andrew Nelson said he aimed to educate the uninitiated on the whole process of eating fish from catch to table – using audio visual presentations, 360-degree displays, a “catch of the day” board, recipe ideas and information

leaflets.

Said Mr Nelson: “We are really excited about the new shop. Fish is a vital food for healthy bodies and healthy minds – as well as providing a delicious and easily varied meal, it comes with a free dose of Omega3 in every portion.”

The Mill is a factory outlet housing more than 40 stores offering big brands in fashion and footwear, furniture and homeware and fresh foods. There is also a hair and beauty salon and a full-time children’s day care centre.

More in store from Mamas & Papas

NURSERY products firm Mamas & Papas has bucked the gloomy trend among retailers to announce plans to open four new stores in the UK. The Colnebridge-based company will open new stores at Westfield in West London, Gallagher Retail Park in Birmingham, Capital Retail Park in Cardiff and Victoria Square in Belfast.

The new stores are in addition to plans for a store at Giltbrook Retail Park in Nottingham, which is due to open in November.

Marek Laskowski, managing director for retail at Mamas & Papas, said: “This new phase of store launches represents the ambition within Mamas & Papas to build on current success and meet the ongoing demand by our customers.

“A Cardiff store has been long overdue in our retail portfolio and the additional stores in the Midlands and London demonstrate the scale of demand for our products and services.

“The Belfast store is an opportunity for our Northern Ireland customers to experience our collections in full and no longer have to travel to our Dublin stores and make their purchases in euros.”

Ms Laskowski added: “Mamas & Papas are bucking the high street downturn and are deter mined to capitalise on strong like-for-like sales which the brand has been enjoying.”

The new stores will create more than 150 jobs and add a further 52,000sq ft to its existing store network.

Mamas & Papas reported a 46% rise in fashion sales for the spring and summer period compared with the same period last year. It said further store openings were set to follow in 2009 as demand for the brand increases.

The family-owned business has been trading for 27 years and has 32 stores across the UK employing 1,100 staff and selling more

■ FOUNDING FAMILY: The Mamas & Papas team of (back from left) Paul Robinson, Amanda Jennings Scacchetti, Olivia Robinson Scacchetti, and Rob Jennings with (front) Luisa Scacchetti and David Scacchetti

than 2,500 products. Turnover for 2007 exceeded £130m.

The business was inspired by Luisa Scacchetti, one of the UK’s leading female entrepreneurs, when she discovered that many products available to her during her pregnancy and motherhood did little to meet her expectations.

She founded the business alongside husband David to provide nursery products and maternity clothing with a designer look.

Mamas & Papas has a fervent celebrity following with customers including fashion designer Stella McCartney and pop star

Gwen Stefani.

The company has eight international stores in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Kuwait City and Doha as well as retail presence via boutiques and high end department stores in the Far East, Australasia, North America and Europe such as Saks 5th Avenue, David Jones and Harvey Nichols.

Its UK stores include a flagship store at Regent Street in London and other outlets in Bir mingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Gateshead, Glasgow, Ipswich, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Preston, Reading, Sheffield, Southampton, Watford and York.

Light shines on PR company NORTHERN Lights PR has been appointed to promote the work of Business Link.

The award-winning agency won the contract in a competitive tender with six other agencies and will work with Business Link’s in-house team to develop and deliver its PR strategy.

John Shepherd, director of partnerships and marketing for Business Link Yorkshire, said: “We were impressed that

Northern Lights really understood our priorities, particularly working successfully with partners in the region and achieving tangible results for businesses.

“Their ideas were innovative and they are already using their networks to help us.”

Business Link Yorkshire has a free customer information centre to help businesses with queries from employment information to exporting.

It can also help businesses of all sizes find and use specialist advice – from an individual thinking about starting a business to a large corporate wanting to enter new markets.

Victoria Tomlinson set up Northern Lights 18 years ago.

Account director Carol Arthur is deputy chair of the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire branch of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations.

5

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Searching for skills in textiles

CITY TALK

Simon Kaye

Maximum pessimism?

YEAR on, the credit crunch seems A no closer to ending and has proved far worse than expected.

The extent of leverage in the financial system has transformed US housing sector problems into truly eye-watering losses for many financial institutions. A total of over 500bn dollars has been written down by the banks, forcing them to raise unprecedented amounts of new capital (350bn dollars and counting) to plug the holes.

Although the authorities have taken steps to ensure the stability and functioning of the system as a whole, this does not prevent individual institutions from suffering material losses. Consequently, sentiment towards the banking sector remains fragile.

Banks have hoarded liquidity and cut back new lending, in this way transmitting the market shock into a credit squeeze for the broader economy, particularly the housing and commercial property sectors, which had become overvalued when credit was easy. The normal “fire break” to interrupt this process is that central banks cut rates. However, although the US Federal Reserve has cut interest rates dramatically, lending rates have risen because banks have become more cautious as they seek to rebuild their capital.

These problems, serious as they are, are scarcely unrecognised by equity markets, which have all fallen significantly. It is easy at such times to become caught up in the negative mood and blind to the opportunities thrown up by lower prices. Unless there is a substantial and sustained fall in corporate earnings, investing in equity markets at current ratings seems likely to be well rewarded in the long term, despite the tactical risks. The question exercising investors is what could catalyse a change in economic fundamentals and investor mood.

Two possible candidates are the passage of time (allowing the banks to complete their retrenchment and recapitalisation) and falling interest rates during 2009, once the current “pulse” of commodity driven inflation has passed through the system. The recent fall in energy prices should reduce the headwind to growth, while opening the door to lower rates in countries such as the UK, where the mortgage drought and falling house prices are likely to keep consumer spending under pressure.

Structural problems in the UK and US economies (with common roots in unsustainably low saving levels and an unwinding housing boom) are likely to keep growth below par for some years. However, if 2009 proves to be a year of declining inflation and falling interest rates for the UK, with exports responding to this year’s fall in sterling, monetary conditions will become a tailwind for equities instead of a straitjacket.

Although it seems too late to be running for cover (which would be akin to driving using the rear view mirror), it is important to exercise care and patience in investment selection. A premium is likely to be placed financially resilient companies which are not unduly dependent on an early economic recovery. At times like this, it is also well to recall that in the view of some iconic investors the best time to invest is when it feels least comfortable.

Simon Kaye is Divisional Director at Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management

■ BITE-SIZE LEARNING: Employees (from left) Mohammad Shahid, Colin Johnson, Julie McCourt, Kevin Waldron, and Kevin Whittell with McVities factory manager Ian Lavery and their training certificates

Slice of the action A BRIGHOUSE training company provided the icing on the cake for employees at a confectionery firm.

Eight workers from the McVities Cake Company in Halifax completed N a t i o n a l Vo c a t i o n a l Qualifications in business improvement techniques with Kirkdale Industrial Training Services at Armytage Road.

The course, funded through the Learning Skills Council-funded Tr a i n t o G a i n p r ogramme, gave formal

accreditation to back previous training by McVities in the areas of lean manufacturing, workplace organisation and continuous i m p r o v e m e n t t e c hniques among other subjects.

Stephen Ed wards, manufacturing change leader at McVities, said: “Delegates perceived this as a great opportunity for personal development.

“For the business, the course allowed us to bed in our workplace organisation work,

which delivered sustainable improvements in all of our manufacturing and warehouse areas.

“It also afforded us the opportunity to apply the learning in a practical environment, providing hard evidence of the work carried out by the teams.”

The Train to Gain programme is designed to provide training and m e n t o r i n g t o s t a f f, ensuring they have the right skills to do the best job and helping boost productivity for their employer.

Don’t ignore opportunities KIRKLEES entrepreneurs are slow to recognise the business advantages of adopting environmentally-friendly behaviour, said a report by accountancy firm Deloitte.

Just 29% of UK businesses are undertaking any carbon reduction initiatives – despite more than a quarter of the firms surveyed by Deloitte believing that environmental issues will have a positive impact by creating opportunities to exploit new products and services.

Some 38% of companies said they were “many years away” from introducing changes to cut their carbon footprint, while 33% said they would do so in the next one or two years.

Most of the green initiatives being employed by UK entrepreneurs involve waste reduction, recycling and energy conservation.

More complex initiatives, such as reducing CO2 emissions for the business as a whole, water conservation and imposing green requirements on their own suppliers were not as popular – due to the greater effort and resources required.

Simon Manning, head of private companies at Deloitte in Leeds, said: “While there are some notable exceptions, many Yorkshire entrepreneurs are still weigh-

ing up the cost of complying, versus the cost of not complying, when it comes to implementing environmental initiatives.

“It is an issue being allocated increasing board agenda time as it could represent a cost to the business rather than an opportunity.

“The reality is, however, that there are two broad reasons why entrepreneurs should have green issues firmly on their agenda.

“Firstly, environmental factors are increasingly influencing the buying decisions of both businesses and consumers. For example, pressure from shareholders on large businesses to be responsible corporate citizens means that they increasingly vet the environmental records of their own suppliers.

“Secondly, the growing pressure on businesses and individuals to reduce their environmental impact inevitably brings opportunities for new products and services to help them meet this goal.

“The innovative nature of entrepreneurs combined with their agility to respond to market opportunities quicker than larger corporates, should place them in an enviable position to capitalise on environmental challenges.”

KIRKLEES textile companies are being urged to help in a nationwide campaign to find the top 50 skilled people in the fashion and textiles industry.

The Behind the Seams campaign has been launched by Skillfast-UK, the sector skills council for fashion and textiles, to draw attention to the industry’s unsung heroes – whose creative talents and technical ability go into producing successful businesses and international brands.

Skillfast-UK also hopes the campaign will highlight the need to recruit and train at least 40,000 new employees over the next five years to replace those leaving the industry through retirement.

Linda Florance, chief executive of Skillfast-UK, said: “Kirklees has 345 fashion and textiles businesses – many of them fantastic small companies which may not be household names, but which create exceptional products, using highly-specialised techniques.

“Behind the Seams will celebrate the skilled individuals who are the backbone of our sector and we will use the results of the campaign to lobby politicians for more support to develop the skills of the next generation of employees.”

Kirklees textiles companies can nominate an employee for a Behind the Seams Award online at www.skillfast-uk.org/bts They will be asked to explain in 100 words, why their employee is a hidden hero when it comes to skills.

The top 50 nominees UK-wide, plus their employers, will be invited to receive their awards at a major event in London on November 11.

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6

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

We don’t have to repeat that Winter of Discontent THERE are a surprising number of similarities between the current economic climate and that of the winter of 1978-1979.

Although I don’t believe direct comparisons can be made between the two periods in our economic history – as hopefully we’ve moved on and learned some valuable lessons from those dark times – there are nevertheless some worrying indicators that a protracted return to economic instability is a real possibility.

The “Winter of Discontent”, a phrase coined

by Larry Lamb, the then editor of the Sun newspaper to describe the worsening UK economic situation of the time, is a phrase which has lodged in the throat of many a politician, economist, senior industrialist and trade unionist for many years and, left a bad taste.

The impact the Winter of Discontent had on the economy between September, 1978, and February, 1979, was almost 29.5m working days lost to strike action, the end of a Labour administration that would not see power again for another 18 years, the beginnings of the dilution of trade union influence under the incoming Thatcher regime and a move to the economic doctrines of Milton Friedman.

One of the causal factors of this economic unrest was sparked off by the government’s move in July, 1978, to impose a 5% wage rise ceiling, extending on from a voluntary incomes policy that had been agreed between the TUC and the government back in 1975 and originally put in place in an effort to bring down inflation.

Thirty years on from the winter of discontent of 1978–1979 are all the variables in place for a repeat performance in 2008-2009? ALAN HALL lan Hall, director for the EEF North East region investigates

The TUC was not expecting this additional imposition – they were expecting the voluntary incomes policy to be scrapped. So when the Ford workers strike of September 22, 1978, began, and by November, the Ford Company and the TGWU had negotiated a 17% increase, the government realised it could no longer enforce the 5% deal. This opened the floodgates from both the public and private sectors, many worker groups coming out on strike in support of higher wage settlements.

The consequences of which, are, as they say, now consigned to history.

This could never happen again for a number of reasons. But the danger is that currently wage claims submitted that are well above the present ceiling rate could begin to filter through in the worsening economic climate. If this happens we could have a mini-repeat of 30 years ago.

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■ ALL OUT!: Could we witness a return to the widespread industrial unrest of 1978-79?

What is also quite unnerving is the realisation of just how many economic and political similarities there are when comparisons are made between then and now. At present, with rising prices in almost every sector, with inflation running at 4.4% and likely to rise further and with pay rises pegged for all sectors at 3.5%. Well, you can see where this could go, can’t you?

Both periods have a Labour government coming towards the end of its tenure. Both periods have wage rise capping.

The recent push by tanker drivers to negotiate wage levels far in excess of the current wage ceiling having antecedents in the Ford workers strike of September, 1978. World oil prices – then and now – pushing production costs to a level that could not and cannot be sustained by demand, leading to flat growth at best and the looming threat of lasting recession.

Add to this a free fall in the housing market, a downturn in the construction industry, rising unemployment, rising energy costs, rising food prices, fuel poverty and negative equity – all leading to a significant lack of confidence in the consumer sector, then there’s no getting away from the fact that it’s rather like déjà vu.

Particularly as all these variables were key economic factors leading to the unrest in September, 1978, just as they are now in September, 2008, exactly 30 years to the day, when the winter of discontent first began.

So what does this mean for business performance in the manufacturing sector across our region over the forthcoming months?

One of the things that I believe is inevitable is that the economic slowdown will continue well into 2009 and probably beyond. Companies will therefore have little choice other than to either seek new opportunities in new markets, which may not be straightforward because the EU is itself experiencing an economic slowdown and the global credit crunch is generally affecting world trade. Or alternatively, and what is more likely, they will be forced to review their internal costs of production. These internal cost reviews may manifest themselves in a number of ways, for example, looking at ways of reducing overhead costs or where practicable, streamlining. For some it may mean relocating to overseas operations where labour costs are lower. However, and unfortunately - where I feel the real cost analysis will be focused will be on labour and staffing levels.

This inevitably will lead to job losses and further fuel the rising level of unemployment.

I don’t believe that the service sector will be exempt from this type of review because here in Yorkshire the sector has enjoyed buoyant business conditions and lucrative revenues for

over 10 years. The current economic slowdown is therefore bound to end some of this bonanza and that is bound to result in more job losses.

During the second trading quarter of 2008, unemployment rose by 0.2% to 5.4%. This equates to 1.67m on the unemployment register, although over the whole year to date there has been no change.

I believe the picture will be very different when the final quarter of 2008’s trading figures are in. I expect to see a significant increase in the level of unemployment over the forthcoming months. We are already seeing an increase in workload for our HR and Legal teams here in Yorkshire.

EEF’s primary role is to represent the interests of manufacturers (as employers) to government, the media and the wider macro environment. As experts in the world of work we provide a wide range of HR, legal, health & safety, environmental and employment services not only to member companies but also to any organisation seeking professional assistance in these areas.

So while we may not be able to change the fortunes of the manufacturing sector here in Yorkshire over the forthcoming months, as these are likely to be dictated by global events, one way in which we can help in the current economic climate is to minimise legal costs in the event of companies having to shed staff.

This is an area where we can make a real difference, by providing professional employment law advisory services to companies or organisations faced with the prospects of having to reduce staffing levels either through lay-offs, redundancies or in some cases closures and relocations etc.

Alternatively, we can provide employment law expertise to help with negotiations, representations, or any employment related issues where there is a need for mediation.

EEF is a not-for-profit organisation, so it represents a very good value proposition for companies looking to maintain or reduce costs while receiving expert legal advice – advicewhich in almost every case can be provided at very cost effective rates at well below, rates charged by private sector law firms.

If companies are looking to make savings on their current legal arrangements and want to obtain more information on the benefits that EEF can provide, they can contact EEF’s HR & Legal Departments at any one of their centres in the North East Region or at any of their other centres throughout the country.

For more information contact 0113 289 2671 (Leeds) 0114 268 0671 (Sheffield) or 0191 416 5656 (Washington) or visit www.eef.org.uk

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Big ideas could earn big money SMALL firms with big ideas for tackling climate change are being urged to compete for up to £40,000 each in a competition backed by oil giant Shell.

The Shell Springboard programme aims to support companies developing energy-saving technology or new ways to generate power.

James Smith, chairman of Shell UK, said: “Small and medium-sized firms are a vibrant and creative sector of the economy, so they’re ideally placed to be climate change entrepreneurs.

“In the future, we will be reliant on a mix of a number of different energy sources and energy-saving technologies.

“Grassroots innovation from small businesses could be a crucial factor in driving the development of this mix. I would urge firms operating in this field to give serious consideration to the Springboard programme.”

Shell Springboard offers a financial boost for UK businesses with compelling ideas for innovative, viable ways to reduce greenhouse gases.

Up to six awards of between £20,000 and £40,000 are on offer in each of three UK regions. Last year, awards of £40,000 were made to five businesses from across the UK. The deadline for entries is November 7, 2008.

Full details and an online application form can be found at www.shell springboard.org

Legal win for Adessi NORTHERN marketing agency Adessi has been appointed to handle the public relations account for top law firm Irwin Mitchell’s Leeds office.

The appointment extends the relationship between the two companies – Adessi already looks after PR for Irwin Mitchell, the UK’s fourth largest law firm, in the north east of England.

Adessi is implementing a two-pronged PR campaign to focus on Irwin Mitchell’s personal injury expertise. It will also boost the profile of the Irwin Mitchell’s Leeds Office.

■ INTREPID TEAM: The Andel team of (from left) Ataul Nadeem, Rosie Pogson, ian Pogson and Brian Roberts, with the Land Rover they drove 2,000 miles to Poland

Polish journey for Land Rover fans

A COLNE Valley company has marked 60 years since the first Land Rove rolled off the production line – by driving a lovingly-restored 1972 vehicle 2,000 miles to Poland.

Andel Ltd, based at Brougham Road, Marsden, sent managing director Ian Pogson and three of its staff on an overland expedition through Holland, Germany and Poland to Ustka, near Gdansk on Poland’s Baltic coast.

Just a few months earlier, the team’s 1972 Series 3 Land Rover Safari was being used as a chicken coop on the moors above Marsden.

Mr Pogson paid £500 for the vehicle – before lavishing thousands of pounds on its restoration.

The Land Rover, which officially qualifies as an historic vehicle and is therefore road tax exempt, was completely rebuilt from new chassis upwards by Andel employees Brian Roberts, Andrew Evans and Ataul Nadeem with support

from Mr Pogson.

Mr Pogson was joined by his daughter Rosie, Mr Roberts and Mr Nadeem on the trek to Poland.

Said Mr Pogson: “It gave us 2,000 miles of trouble-free motoring, but it was slow going.”

Mr Roberts owned the vehicle at one time, so is particularly attached to it. He said: “With all the new and better parts we have used, it is in better condition now than it was when it left the factory 36 years ago.”

Back in 1972, the price for Land Rover’s top-of-the-range vehicle as £9,000. Mr Pogson said: “It has cost us much more than that to rebuild, but if we are still running it another 36 years it will have been a very good investment.”

The company, which designs and supplies flood alarm and leak detection equipment, is now running the Land Rover as a company vehicle – and using it as example of Andel’s engineering prowess.

Andel set up its Polish business,

Andel Polska, three years ago. The company sells Andel’s products into the Polish market and is set to provide the springboard for Andel to expand into Ukraine and the Baltic States.

“Andel Polska is making good profits and is growing rapidly,” said Mr Pogson. We hope to be able to use the lessons we have learned in Poland to tackle the northern Baltic countries and other countries such as Ukraine and Romania.

“All these emerging countries are adopting current best practice when in comes to asset and environmental protection, so being the first there gives us a strong position in our specialised field.”

Andel is the UK’s largest leak detection business – developing electronic monitors and sensors to detect leaks from pipes, tanks and washrooms in places such as libraries, art galleries, museums and banks.

7

Firms can find funds

FUNDING is still available to help Kirklees firms grow – despite the credit crunch.

Regional development agency Yorkshire Forward said two major regional funds were continuing to make investments in firms which are looking to expand into new markets and which are ineligible for funding through traditional routes.

Partnership Investment Finance, which covers parts of North and West Yorkshire, the Humber and North and North East Lincolnshire, has almost £11m of its £37m funding pot available for investment before the end of 2008.

PIF can help firms looking for loans and investment ranging from £3,000 to £1.5m and has so far assisted 440 small and medium-sized companies ranging from ones employing a handful of people to a major business with more than 200 employees.

Businesses backed by PIF in recent months include Milnsbridge-based Lazarus Mobility, which received £20,000 to create a website and set up a showroom to display its range of products for people with mobility problems.

Batley-based shopfitting firm Sandoms received a £100,000 loan from PIF to support its expansion plans following a management buy-out.

The second fund, the South Yorkshire Investment Fund has invested more than £50m in businesses and now hasalmost £10m to invest until the end of the year.

Tax advice KIRKLEES firms struggling to pay a tax bill have been encouraged to take positive action in dealing with the problem.

David Butterworth, of chartered accountancy firm Wheawill & Sudworth in Huddersfield, recommended firms reach a Time to Pay arrangement with Revenue & Customs to cover PAYE/NI, VAT, corporation tax and self-assessment liabilities.

Mr Butterworth said firms should make sure they contact Revenue & Customs before the payment deadline passes, expalin why there is a problem – perhaps due to slow-paying customers or a bad debt – and set out their strategy to improve the position.

Companies should put forward their payment proposals backed by a cashflow forecast – making sure the arrangement is realistic so they can keep to it and meet ongoing tax bills as well.

“Revenue & Customs are well aware of the current economic climate and will help where there is a genuine cash flow issue.” ,

Firm with the right data A NEW data storage centre has opened in Elland to help local companies keep confidential and sensitive information secure.

SunGard Availability Services has opened the new centre to meet the needs of up to 4,000 businesses across the north. The centre provides local businesses with a range of managed IT services, including data storage and retrieval and business consultancy.

The move comes as a survey highlighted a shortage of data centre facilities in Yorkshire.

Manchester Enterprises, the economic development agency for Greater Manchester, said many businesses were struggling to find locations with enough power to meet their growing needs.

A separate report by AFCOMS Data Centre Institute warned that by 2010 more than half of all data centres will have to move to new

facilities or outsource some applications – while over the next five years power failures and limits on power supply will hit data centre operations at more than 90% of companies.

SunGard Availablity Services, based in the USA, has 14 centres in the UK, including four in London and others in Leicester, Coventry and Bristol. It also has centres in France, Germany, Belgium, Norway and Sweden.

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8

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

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■ HEALTHY CHOICE: Lloyds TSB has launched a new West Yorkshire team focused on the needs of firms in the health market

Bank names new team A SPECIALIST banking team has been set up by Lloyds TSB Commercial to cover firms in West Yorkshire’s growing healthcare sector.

The team – operating across Kirklees, Bradford, Calderdale, Leeds and Wakefield – will provide tailored financial services to healthcare companies and practices with annual turnover of

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up to £15m.

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The five-strong team was launched in response to the healthcare sector’s rapid growth

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on the back of continued NHS outsourcing policies and an ageing population.

Graham Scott, regional head of healthcare banking services, said: “Businesses operating in the healthcare sector often have specific requirements and many West Yorkshire firms are experiencing rapid growth.”

BIRSTALL-based marketing agency Fantastic Media has been retained by bespoke vehicle company Overfinch.

Fantastic will develop and deliver a strategic marketing plan for the client. Increased investment in marketing will build the Overfinch brand and increase awareness in the company’s niche target market.

The two companies had an existing relationship – with Fantastic providing marketing support on an ad-hoc basis.

However, a decision was taken to embark upon a more sustained marketing campaign after a three-way agency pitch.

Neil Underwood, commercial director at Overfinch, said: “We’re delighted to be undertaking a brand-building and tactical marketing campaign with Fantastic Media.”

‘Adopt spirit of the Olympians’ KIRKLEES company bosses are being urged to replicate the tactics behind Team GB’s Beijing Olympic success to help steer the UK economy away from recession.

“Imagineering” – a form of Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) – has been successfully used to inspire success in America and Russia for years.

Britain secured a record medal haul at the Beijing Olympics, producing the country's best performance for 100 years, because competitors learned how to imagine what winning was like and it enhanced their performances.

But Yorkshire-based international NLP expert Sonia Saxton, who has worked with some of Europe’s leading companies including LG Philips, Pfizer and Parker Hannifin, said UK businesses were lagging behind competitors in using NLP techniques to improve performance and drive results.

Ms Saxton set up her own NLP business, Saxton Partners, after using its techniques to help the sales team at Royal Sun Alliance beat their sales target by more than 100%.

She said: “Our athletes have always had the ability, but they did not truly believe they could win. The Americans and the Russians have always been better at dreaming and fulfilling those dreams. Now we have caught them up.

“If an athlete can imagine winning and what it is like to hear the crowd as they cross the winning line, they get the feeling of what it is like to win. It becomes a reality to them, and their mind shifts its perception of what is possible and enhances their performance.

Sonia Saxton, of Saxton Partners “If you applied the same winning formula to a business or sales team, for example visualising having gained a sale or winning a contract, you can see how beneficial it would be to your company.

“Some companies do already use NLP to boost performances of both teams and individuals, particularly at more senior levels in the business.

“However, there is definitely an opportunity for more businesses to use it and across different levels of the organisation. It can have quite remarkable, long-lasting results, as well as improving morale and communications.”

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10

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Machine tools get new look

EMPLOYERS' BRIEFING Neil Wilson

Extending family ties HE Government has shown its conT tinued committal to improving working rights for mothers and families with

important amendments to legislation coming into effect both in 2008 and 2009.

Currently, maternity rights entitle new mothers to take a total of 52 weeks maternity leave. This is made up of two periods of 26 weeks broken down into ordinary maternity leave and additional maternity leave. A new mother will either qualify for statutory maternity pay or maternity allowance for a maximum of 39 weeks.

During ordinary maternity leave all contractual entitlements and benefits, obviously excluding remuneration, continue and should any of these benefits cease, it will amount to sex discrimination. There is also duty on the employer to ensure that the new mother is kept informed of events and opportunities which affect her role during maternity leave and the employee is entitled to attend for work or training events for up to 10 days during her maternity leave without bringing this leave to an end.

If a woman returns after ordinary maternity leave, she is entitled to return to the same job she carried out before maternity leave began. If returning after additional maternity leave, the employee has a similar entitlement, but if it is not reasonably practicable to return to this role an alternative suitable option must be found. After returning to work a new mother then has a right to request to work flexibly. Currently, all employees who are parents of children under the age of six (or disabled children under the age of 18) have a right to request to change their hours of work to suit their childcare needs. A detailed procedure must be followed by the employer in responding to this.

From October, 2008, the following changes to maternity rights will apply: Employees will be entitled to the same benefits enjoyed during ordinary maternity leave while on additional maternity leave.

This means that all contractual benefits will apply during additional maternity leave.

During the two week period following child birth (which is compulsory maternity leave) the employee will have a right to payment of any bonus that accrues during that period.

An employee can make a claim of discrimination if her terms and conditions do not remain the same during additional maternity leave. Prior to this amending legislation, a claim could only relate to ordinary maternity leave.

The amending legislation will not mean however that statutory maternity pay or maternity allowance is payable for the final 13 weeks of additional maternity leave.

With regard to flexible working, it is likely that the right to request such arrangements under the statutory procedure will be extended to those with parental responsibility for children up to the age of 16 with effect from April 2009. It is estimated that this will potentially allow a further 4.5m employees to make such a request. This is currently under consultation still and a clearer indication of when this will be implemented will be announced in due course.

Neil Wilson is an Employment Lawyer at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors

■ TOP HONOURS: Graham Stacey (left), managing director of Ceiling 2 Ltd, with (from left) Carl Hudson, Sally Crosland, Stuart Haigh, Hayley Slater and Terry Woodhouse and their award

New heights for ceilings company A COMPANY fitting suspended ceilings for banks, shops and hospitals has reached new heights by winning a national award at the first attempt.

Linthwaite-based Ceiling 2 Ltd gained a silver award in the category for installations valued at below £100,000 in the Association of Interior Specialists Awards held in London.

The award recognised the firm’s outstanding work fitting a suspended ceiling at Armthorpe Coronation Working Mens’ Club in Doncaster.

Judges visited the club to view the workmanship for themselves and the company also underwent a stringent interviewing session.

Although the contract was not the biggest the company has tackled, it provided some unusual challenges due to the shape and features of the rooms.

Now Ceiling 2 aims to use its national exposure to win more contracts in the face of tough competition from bigger companies.

Owner Graham Stacey said: “It is a big achievement. It is the first time we have entered the competition and to come away with silver is testament to the skills and dedication of our staff and the quality of our fitters and sub-contractors.

It has attracted a lot of interest.”

Mr Stacey formed the company 25 years ago

after leaving his job as works engineer with Reliance Gears at Lepton. His interest grew from carrying out a project at Reliance to fit ceilings and partitions at premises on the site.

“I started doing bits and pieces at weekends and I left Reliance to set up the business in 1984.”

Mr Stacey’s team also includes contracts director Carl Hudson, sales manager Marcus Naylor, finance manager Karen Appleyard, office manager Sally Crosland and health and safety co-ordinator Hayley Slater.

The company moved from Paddock to Hazel Grove, Linthwaite, six years ago. It carried out a refurbishment of the premises to provide a “working showroom” for potential customers.

Ceiling 2 is now notching up annual turnover totalling £2m for its work refurbishing existing business premises and carrying out work on new developments.

Contracts have included work on the new birthing ward at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, a new store in Liverpool and Colnebridge-based nursery products firm Mamas and Papas and a refurbishment project for estate agency Bramleys in Huddersfield.

It has also worked for Huddersfield University, discount retailer Netto, banking giant HBOS and the Nationwide Building Society.

Agency work praised A DIRECT marketing company is on track for a major award for its work with a leading estate agency chain.

Adare, based at Clayton West, has been shortlisted in the category for best new data software or technology in the Marketing Connect Awards.

The nomination recognises Adare’s work for estate agency group, Hamptons International. The awards will be presented on September 22 at London’s Grosvenor House.

Adare developed an online marketing system that brings together a complete property database for each branch of Hamptons with a library of digital images and editing tools.

The new system allows Hamptons staff to add property instructions to the database and produce

direct mail material with just 15 clicks of the computer mouse while maintaining a consistent “corporate” look.

Since the software launch, Adare has delivered more than 2m targeted mailers – and with the application being web-based new branches can be quickly added. The system went “live” with 60 branches and now covers 123.

The nomination follows a trio of prestigious award wins for Adare covering print, internet and design.

Adare, which hs 800 staff at 20 sites, operates in a range of industries, including retail, financial services, not-for-profit and the public sector. Clients include Tie Rack, Fitness First, Revenue and Customs, HBOS and Royal Bank of Scotland.

A LEADING engineering company has launched a new service at its Elland site.

Precision Technologies Group has set up J&S Remanufacture Ltd at its Rosemount Works to design and build new machines tools under the prestigious Crawford Swift and Binns & Berry brands in addition to expanding its remanufacturing and servicing business.

The new operation will continue to provide new machines, spares and services for its established brands, which include Binns & Berry, Crawford Swift, Joshua Heap, and Hepworth Copy Systems.

PTG group chief executive Mark Franckel said: “I am delighted that we have acquired these historic British brands and see enormous benefits.

Crawford Swift is a specialist in the design and manufacture of new lathes, welding machines, polishing machines and other special purpose machine tools.

Binns & Berry specialises in the design, manufacture and repair of large capacity computer numerically-controlled lathes for components up to 15 tons.

The companies operate from a 38,000sq ft engineering works in Elland.

Holiday win from car dealer A HUDDERSFIELD man has won a weekend holiday for two in London after visiting a car dealership in the town.

John Hetherington won the prize – including a London show and a ride on the London Eye – after visiting a family weekend at West Riding Toyota on Leeds Road.

The family weekend marked tha fact that for the first time, the dealership had exclusive access to 90 ex-management cars. It slashed used car prices by up to £2,000 and is offered £500 of free fuel to everyone buying a car during the

11

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Cattles has the answers for business BIRSTALL-based Cattles Invoice Finance has launched a string of new products.

The award-winning business said it aimed to provide flexible financial solutions for businesses at all stages.

David Jones, of Cattles, said the new developments included bridging finance designed to sit alongside an invoice finance facility, giving a company’s clients access to funds exceeding £75,000, secured against commercial or residential property.

Said Mr Jones: “The product has bee specifically developed with SMEs in mind and gives clients the additional funds they need to purchase new premises, raise funds to inject into their business, meet tight deadlines or resolve a temporary cash flow problem.”

A Small Firms Loan Guar-

antee is available to clients struggling to get conventional funding and provides a fast and reliable cash injection of up to £250,000.

“We are delighted to be offering this additional funding opportunity in conjunction with an invoice finance facility, plugging what is a significant gap in the business finance market,” said Mr Jones.

Cattles has also announced the launch of Sure Start, a new package for start-ups.

“Sure Start has been designed to provide embryonic businesses with the financial support they need to make their first crucial steps,” said Mr Jones.

“It is available to companies less than 12 months old.

Clients are able to budget successfully by ‘fixing’ their monthly fees, so they know exactly what they are paying.”

Piece of pie

PIE man Andrew Jones (left) now has more reasons to celebrate.

The award-winning Huddersfield pies and pasties maker has landed a deal to supply his succulent savoury products to Morrisons.

Now his firm, based at Old Leeds Road, is producing 2,400 pies and pasties a week for the supermarket chain – taking its products to 24 Morrisons stores across Yorkshire.

Andrew (pictured left) has joined a list of 10 regional food producers of Morrisons’ Yorkshire Range.

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12

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

ON THE MOVE

Accountancy PR team completed

DAVID Kershaw (right) has joined Boomerang Recruitment as a consultant. Mr Kershaw, 33, who lives at Scissett, joins the Fartown company after a career in sales with major companies including British Gas, Sky and William Hill. in his new role, Mr Kershaw, who hails from Sheffield, will work alongside agency boss Nicky Battye (left) and will be involved in business development, staff recruitment and generating new business.

His partner, Rachel, works in the teaching recruitment industry in Wakefield.

Strong support Nigel Squires has been appointed head of business development

by Huddersfield-based f l e e t p e r fo r m a n c e improvement company FMG Support.

Mr Squires (pictured right), formerly head of automotive for RAC Corporate Partnerships, will focus on creating opportunities in complementary markets as well as expanding current service areas in direct fleet, contract hire and leasing. He has 15 years experience in the automotive industry and has been responsible for a customer

HOWARD Rhoades has been appointed media relations manager in the north for the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

Mr Rhoades joins existing ICAEW media contacts Colin Young and Sonia Kenson and his appointment brings the team up to full strength.

The team handles all press work for the institute across the north-west, north-east, Yorkshire and Humber. It also has PR responsibility nationally for the Institute’s Learning and Professional Development directorate Mr Young handles press and media for the ICAEW Solicitors’ Special Interest Group and Ms Kenson looks after the ICAEW Entertainment & Media Special Interest group.

Mr Rhoades has worked for the past seven-and-a-half years as

Sales and service supervisor Howard Rhoades

Sonia Kenson

media adviser/manager to the Ministry of Defence where his remit included establishing and taking responsibility for regional press offices. Previously he worked in press office roles for the Cabinet Office, the Health & Safety Executive and the Government News

Colin Young

Network.

The ICAEW has about 8,000 members in Yorkshire and Humber, including 5,500 in West and North Yorkshire, 1,500 in South Yorkshire and approximately 1,000 in the Humber area.

Partnership chairman portfolio that includes the top 10 largest fleet partners and a wide range of motor manufacturers. Mr Squires was instrumental in implementing Volkswagen Group’s roadside assistance programme in 2007 and received the Chief Executive’s Award for sales performance with RAC Business Solutions.

Back to Green GREEN Communications has appointed Dan Phillips as client services director.

Mr Phillips, 30, who lives at Sheffield, began his career at Green and rejoins after a spell at a Leeds-based agency – as Green bucks the economic climate to notch up a string of new client wins.

Ian Green, director of media, said: “Dan's appointment reaffirms our commitment to clients of delivering results and value across the media spectrum.

“In what is widely accepted as a tough time for all business, Green has enjoyed substantial growth in 2008 in terms of our client portfolio and our growing account teams.”

Accounts post MARKETING agency Adessi has appointed Beth Leonard as accounts manager with its Leeds team.

Ms Leonard, 25, brings a wealth of project management experience having previously managed accounts for Google, Proctor and Gamble and Morrisons. She will be working on accounts for global packaging corporation Clondalkin Group and law firm, Irwin Mitchell.

DAVID Horsman has been appointed as the new chairman of Partnership Investment Finance’s Partnership Group.

Partnership Investment Finance is a £37m investment fund aimed at supporting growing businesses in Yorkshire and Humber. It aims to encourage enterprise and economic regeneration by providing equity investments and loans to eligible businesses in the region’s Objective 2 areas.

Mr Horsman said: “The Partnership Group constitutes companies and organisations which came together in 2001 to ‘design’ the PIF range of financial products.

“They were anticipated to become a key element in the marketing of the PIF products and advisers to the main board.

PIF has relied upon the support of these organisations and others who have assisted us in achieving our goals.”

David Horsman Mr Horsman has been involved in organisations supporting SMEs for the last 20 years, including the Huddersf i e l d - b a s e d M i d - Yo rk s h i re Chamber of Commerce, West

Chris Wood and Ian Gostellow have been appointed as insolvency experts at the Clckheaton offices of accountancy firm Clough & Company.

Mr Wood (right), of Huddersfield, and Mr Gostellow, who hails from Dewsbury, will head the firm’s new division, Clough Corporate Solutions.

Mr Wood was formerly with PricewaterhouseCoopers while Mr Gostellow joins from Haines Watts.

Clough Corporate Solutions services include insolvency, business and asset acquisition and general advice on debt recovery.

Clough & Company, formed in 1953, employs 88 members of staff in a range of departments including business development, management services, corporate finance, audit, taxation, financial management and IT evaluation.

Yorkshire Enterprise Agency, Calderdale Business Trust, Action Halifax and Business Link West Yorkshire.

PIF Chief Executive Dr Jon Harris said: “David has made a tremendous contribution to PIF since it was launched and his position, as chairman of PIF’s Partnership Group, means that he will continue to support PIF as it seeks to invest more than £8m in the region’s growing business over the next four months.”

Alex McWhirter, Assistant Director of Business at Yorkshire Forward said: “David’s commitment to Partnership Investment Finance has been huge and he has played a key role in developing PIF’s profile in the region and ensuring it continues to make investments which ultimately support Yorkshire and the Humber’s long-term economic success.”

Partner appointed KPMG has named Iain Moffatt as its new office senior partner in Yorkshire.

Mr Moffatt, 46, who will take up the post on October 1, has been an audit partner with KPMG for 11 years.

He joined KPMG in 1983 and has worked for leading firms, including Persimmon, Pace and Marshalls.

JIM Fletcher, 37, has been appointed branch supervisor at the Huddersfield sales and service centre of Thorite, the UK’s largest distributor of pneumatic products and process systems.

Mr Fletcher (pictured), of Sheffield, joined Bradford-based Thorite in 2005 as a sales administrator based at the firm’s Sheffield branch.

He now takes on new responsibilities, including managing all resources at the Barge Street premises in Huddersfield, improving customer service levels, training new and existing team members, maintaining stock levels and handling telephone account management.

The Huddersfield site is one of nine regional outlets covering Yorkshire, Lancashire and the north-east.

The right response CHARLOTTE Britton h a s b e e n ap p o i n t e d search director by Huddersfield-based Digital Brand Response Group.

Ms Britton takes up the role of head of Traffic Online Marketing. She joins from Pollenation, which also operated in the field of search marketing and brings more than 10 years experience. She previously worked for rival S t i c ky e y e s. c o m a n d worked on brands such as First Direct and Alliance & Leicester.

Ms Britton chairs the Institute of Directors’ Young Directors Forum for Yorkshire and Humber and is a keen landscape photographer.

Traffic Online Marketing is part of the Digital Brand Response Group, which also includes creative agency Enjoy Digital.

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Keeping tabs on award chances

BANKER'S BLOG Jill Hague

Time to get money wise

N this month’s Blog I have tried to highIdone light some of the things that can be to keep your business ahead in the

current climate.

The UK’s SMEs are being hit by a pincer movement of suppliers billing quicker and fewer companies paying within agreed payment terms.

As a bank we are urging businesses to review their finances to ensure they have the best tools in place to manage their money, whether they trade solely in the UK or do business across the globe.

Our research has found that one in five (18 %) small businesses reported suppliers are billing quicker and a further 20% said that fewer companies are paying within agreed payment terms. This research follows figures from the Federation of Small Businesses showing that large firms are delaying invoice payments to smaller firms.

Yet according to the survey among senior decision makers of 596 small and medium-sized companies, many SMEs are overly reliant on their savings and overdraft to fund both cashflow and big purchases and business investment.

It found two-fifths of SMEs (40%) are raiding savings and a quarter (24%) relying on overdrafts to manage their everyday finances. While nearly one in five (18%) used their overdraft to fund big purchases, such as business vehicles and equipment, with 11% turning to their credit card for business investment.

We would urge any business to talk to their trusted advisers to ensure they have the right financial tools in place for the current environment.

Quicker billing and longer payments can put pressure on small businesses and form an unsustainable cycle but SMEs can break this cycle.

Some guidance on forward planning and risk assessment to get ahead in business includes: Forward planning with your cashflow – do keep cashflow budgets up to date, focus on receiving payment for sales, avoid unnecessary or excessive expenditure, and arrange appropriate financing before you need it. Do not assume payments will be received on time, tie up excessive cash in working capital, and overtrade by accepting orders you cannot finance.

Taking control of your budget – do focus on key indicators which have a significant effect on performance, use budgets to anticipate problems, regularly review performance and find reasons for variances, use budget control as a prompt to action, and revise budgets as more up-to-date information becomes available. Do not confuse changes in timing with permanent changes to the levels of income or expenditure and ignore favourable variances without finding an explanation.

Managing debt risks – do chase debts as soon as they become due, try to resolve the problem if there is a genuine dispute, use firm but friendly telephone calls, keep records of everything that is said, and who you are dealing with. Do not accept excuses at face value without establishing what will happen next, offer further credit to customers who are not paying, take legal action if the debtor is unlikely to be able to pay.

Making large business purchases – do consider all the funding options such as leasing, HP, loans and mortgages. Do not tie up your personal wealth and overdrafts making long term purchases, use asset finance options instead and free up your overdrafts etc for short term requirements. So get savvy and stay ahead.

Jill Hague is Head of Commercial Banking for HSBC in Huddersfield

13

■ WELL DONE: Huddersfield University student Simbarashe Makwembere receives his award of £300 as the top student in the first year of the BA accountancy and finance degree course from West Yorkshire Society of Chartered Accountants past president Gail Monnickendam while (below) Stephen Duerden receives his award

Best students get financial bursaries TWO accountancy students at Huddersfield University have received bursaries totalling £500.

The awards were presented to first-year students Simbarashe Makwembere and Stephen Duerden by Gail Monnickendam, past president of the West Yorkshire Society of Chartered Accountants.

Simbarashe, who comes from Zimbabwe, was awarded £300 as top student in the first year of the BA (Honours) accountancy and finance degree course while Stephen Duerden received £200 as the second best student in the first year of the course.

Ms Monnickendam said: “We felt the society could do more towards supporting and encouraging the next generation of the profession.

“As well as the monetary prize, the other key element for the winners is that being a bursary recipient will be something they can add to their CVs which will enhance their career prospects and go towards easing the way for the business leaders of the future.”

Wilma Teviotdale, head of the university’s department of accountancy,

said: “I am delighted that two such excellent students have received this recognition from WYSCA. “Many of our students remain in the region after graduation or do placements with professional firms in West Yorkshire, so WYSCA’s relationship with Huddersfield University is very important to our students’ future professional development.”

AN Elland-based firm providing tags to keep track of vulnerable people in hospitals is among 10 northern companies shortlisted for a major award.

Active Tagging, which has its registered office at Victoria Road in Elland and premises at Dean Clough in Halifax, was named a regional winners of the HSBC Start-Up Stars Awards.

Now it joins nine other regional winners competing with outstanding firms across the country for the national title of Start Up Star 2008 and a first prize of £50,000.

Active Tagging, led by business partners Christopher Bullock and Damian Mallinson, was set up in January last year to provide electronic tags to keep track of legal documents.

It has since widened its scope to provide tagging devices to protect vulnerable people such as the elderly or new-born babies from harm or abduction and has systems installed in hospitals worldwide.

It also makes equipment for access control to high security areas and tagging products to keep track of valuables or monitor the whereabouts of employees.

Other regional winners include a company in Goole providing waterless urinals, a Manchester firm supplying low-energy lighting for adverting billboards, a Blackburn business creating job opportunities for deaf people and a North Yorkshire consultancy developing renewable energy.

The Start-Up Star 2008 will be revealed at gala dinner to be held on October 29 at the Dorchester Hotel in London. A cheque for £5,000 will also go to the company demonstrating the strongest commitment to the environment.

Huw Morgan, head of business banking for HSBCm said: “Last year, HSBC helped more than 130,000 new businesses get started – so we understand what it takes to set up a new venture and go it alone.

“We hope the success of these businesses in this year’s HSBC Start-Up Stars Awards will help them go from strength to strength.”

Funds to feed industry A GROUP promoting Yorkshire’s food and drink manufacturers has secured £4.1m funding to spread the word about the region’s mouthwatering fare.

The Regional Food Group supports the food and drink sector by fostering trading links, improving the competitiveness of local producers and increasing consumer awareness.

The extra funding from regional development agency Yorkshire Forward will enable it to offer more advice on matters including product development, automation, health and safety, quality standards and exports.

John Sorsby, food and drink sector man-

ager for Yorkshire Forward, said: “Yorkshire Forward is committed to developing the food and drink sector in the region. We have confidence in the Regional Food Group to deliver support for the sector and to champion its cause.”

Independent food industry forecasts suggest that the UK market for regionally-sourced food will increase from £4.3bn last year to £5.7bn in 2012.

RFG chief executive Jonathan Knight said: “It is important that our region’s produce is competitive, has the right production processes in place, maintains its excellent quality and has the profile to capitalise on its market potential.”

“We have already seen some great successes for our members through the practical solutions and advice we offer. Our additional services will present an even stronger support.”

Said Mr Knight: “Food and drink producers and manufacturers can come to us with any related question. We should be regarded as the ‘google’ for the region’s food and drink industry.”

RFG will also represent members’ interests with bodies such as the Food Standards Agency and lobby on issues including recruitment and training, rising raw material costs and packaging.

Rishworth School & Heathfield

Open Events 2008 Rishworth School

Independent Co-educational Day and Boarding School. Continuous education from 11-18 years

A thriving, independent co-educational school with its happy mix of day-pupils, weekly-boarders and full-boarders, Rishworth is an exceptionally friendly, caring community in which pupils are as strongly encouraged to rejoice in each other’s achievements as to take pride in their own.

Heathfield Heathfield, Rishworth’s Junior School (including Nursery and Infant sections), provides a caring environment and a stimulating education for boys and girls from the ages of 3 to 11.

Set in its own grounds, Heathfield has excellent facilities which include a spacious hall, dining room, gymnasium and specialist teaching rooms for Music, Design Technology and Art and ICT. Heathfield also shares some of the Senior School’s facilities, including the swimming pool, performing arts centre and extensive playing fields.

Rishworth Events Open Morning - Senior School Saturday 11th October, 9.30 - 12 noon Open Evening - Senior School Monday 13th October, 6.00 - 8.30pm Entrance Assessment for Year 7 Entry Saturday 8th November, 9am Sixth Form Open Evening - Senior School Wednesday 19th November, 6.30pm -9pm Address by Head of Sixth Form, 6.45pm- 7.15pm

Heathfield Events

Open Afternoon - Heathfield - Nursery, Infant and Junior School Monday 13th October, 1.15pm - 6pm

Rishworth, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom HX6 4QA. Tel: +44 (0)1422 822 217 Fax: +44 (0)1422 820 911 Website: www.rishworth-school.co.uk E-mail: admissions@rishworth-school.co.uk

Registered Charity Number: 1115562

IF you’re considering independent education for your child, then remember that many local schools will be holding special open days in the coming weeks. ● Parents wishing to give their children the best start in life should consider CLIFF SCHOOL. The school offers continuous education in a warm and caring environment for boys and girls from two to 11 years. Facilities are based on two sites both of which are close to Wakefield city centre and only two miles from Junction 41 of the M1.

Academic standards are high but the wider curriculum looks to give children an opportunity to identify and develop other gifts and talents. The smaller classes and family atmosphere mean that children are offered very personal attention.

The school offers pre and after school care every day and breakfast is available if required. In the school holidays there is an exciting club for pupils from three to 11 years and our nursery operates for 51 weeks of the year for pupils aged two to three. Our provision is fully registered by Ofsted and is regularly inspected. ● Personal shopping, personal banking, personal medical care ... in a world where personalised service makes a world of difference to adults, isn’t it only right that children should also receive the individual attention they need to thrive?

Small is still beautiful at BATLEY GRAMMAR SCHOOL where the comparatively high ratio of teachers to pupils means we can truly nurture and care for our boys and girls (aged three to 18) as they grow in confidence and stature to reach their goals.

Four illustrious centuries of great teaching combine with latest technology and facilities – including our new state-of-the-art sixth form – to provide a personalised education truly fit for the 21st century.

‘It seems only yesterday that our daughter came to you as a shy 12 year old, when you assured her that you would help her fulfil her potential. She has immersed herself in her work, and has enjoyed every moment at Batley Grammar School, involving herself completely in every aspect of her school life.

Our thanks for providing our daughter with an opportunity to achieve something we could never have imagined’ (parent).

‘What sets Batley Grammar School apart from the others is the small class sizes - they enable the teachers to give far more individual attention which really makes a difference’ (pupil).

Batley Grammar School: a personal choice.

A limited number of free places are available for September 2009. Please contact the school office on 01924 474980 ● As a parent, your choice of school has an enormous impact

on your child’s future and finding the right school, where your child will develop and thrive, is no easy task.

THE MOUNT PREPARATORY SCHOOL is conveniently situated just five minutes from both Huddersfield town centre and J24 of the M62, and provides a close-knit, caring and supportive community from it’s inspirational setting in a nineteenth century mill owner’s house, set in almost two acres of leafy grounds.

The Mount School provides a nurturing environment for every one of our pupils and encourages them in producing consistent work to the very best of their abilities. An excellent range of facilities and activities is available and every pupil is actively encouraged to take full advantage of these. Our impressive academic tradition and balance between modern and traditional teaching methods ensure the provision of a well-rounded education and the outstanding results gained in recent Grammar School entrance examinations are testament to the success of our teaching programme.

Our next Open Morning takes place on Saturday October 11, 2008 between 9.30am and 12pm and we look forward to welcoming you. For further information or to arrange an individual visit, please contact our Admissions Tutor, Virginia Gidley on 01484 426432 or email: info@themount.org.uk ● Founded in 1724, RISHWORTH SCHOOL is fully co-educational and aims to provide for your child a caring environment in which they can achieve a high standard relative to their natural talent. The School comprises a nursery for children from age three, a Junior School, Heathfield, which has its own separate site, and the Senior School.

The school admits pupils of a broad range of academic

abilities and prides itself on being able to give your child close personal attention, both in, and outside, the classroom. Pastoral care is highly developed, with a tutorial system which ensures that your child receives regular encouragement and help on matters ranging from academic work to personal development.

Boarding accounts for about 25% of the pupils in the Senior School. Boarders are generously accommodated and are regarded as an important part of the life of the School. Weekly boarding and flexi-boarding are popular options and open to you as a Parent.

Located in 130 acres of a beautiful Pennine valley, the School has a mix of elegant older buildings and excellent modern facilities including a capacious sports hall with fitness suite, a separate, newly-re-developed Sports Club with 25-metre indoor swimming pool and squash courts (opened last year by HRH The Princess Royal), a large expanse of games pitches, a music block, numerous modern ICT suites, wireless (and cabled) Internet and Intranet connection across the whole site, a Performing Arts Theatre, a new, updated centre dedicated to sixth-form study, freshly-refurbished boarding houses and A r t d e p a r t m e n t , a n d n ew ly - i n s t a l l e d , state-of-the-art Science laboratories.

Communications are very good from Huddersfield via the M62 to Rishworth- in term-time it takes you less than 25 minutes. A School bus also serves the Huddersfield area.

Please visit us at our Open Events (as advert-

ised) or alternatively, contact our Admissions Officer so we can arrange a personal tour for you and your child. ● The PREPARATORY SCHOOL Lightcliffe provides a strong Educational foundation for children aged two – 11 years old. It provides a safe secure environment to allow children to develop and fulfil their potential, preparing them for the next step to higher education ‘Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the school’ as we provide: Little Lightcliffe Day Nursery for 2-3 year olds with experienced staff for the very young Full time Nursery for 3-4 year olds Individual attention in small classes Excellent results Before & After School Care and Holiday Club for children.

Competitive, affordable fees ● HIPPERHOLME GRAMMAR SCHOOL is a small, caring and well disciplined school that consistently produces excellent examination results for its students: with all students significantly out performing expectations. This achievement is a key part of the school, because each student is treated as an individual and given the opportunity to maximise their particular talents and strengths. Academic achievement is very important but so too is the development of a well-rounded character. Hipperholme excels at providing an excellent environment in which individuals are given opportunities for leadership development and personal enrichment.

The Silcoates School Foundation A family of schools providing a continuous education from 0-18 years

Our January 2008 Independent Schools Inspectorate Report said: ‘The quality of pastoral care throughout the school is outstanding’ ‘The school is a happy community’ ‘Pupils have a sense of belonging to the school’ ‘Relationships among pupils and with the staff are excellent’ ‘Throughout the school the pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding’ ‘The quality of leadership and management in the school is outstanding’

An outstanding education and closer than you might think

Hipperholme Grammar School provides high quality education from 2years to 18 years for girls and boys. Examination results are consistently amongst the best our recent Independent Schools Inspectorate Report described the school as ‘outstanding’.

Inspectors said:

Boys and girls aged 7-18

• • • •

Sunny Hill House

•

Silcoates School

Our school has benefited from a significant investment programme, which has further enhanced the already enviable teaching facilities.

Students can access a state-of-the-art IT network and all Lower Sixth students are provided with a laptop for their studies, by the school.

Your child deserves the best possible start in life so for further information contact The Grammar School Hipperholme on 01422 202256, e-mail secretary@hipperholmegrammar.org.uk or visit our website on www.thsf.org.uk ● WOODHOUSE GROVE received a glowing report from the Independent Schools Council Inspectors who confirmed that the school had

‘The quality of pastoral care throughout the school is outstanding’ ‘The school is a happy community’ ‘Relationships among pupils and with the staff are excellent’ ‘Throughout the school the pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding’ ‘The quality of Leadership and Management in the school is outstanding’

The Grammar School provides the type of education all parents are seeking: small but caring; academic yet focussing on personal development.

Boys and girls aged 2-7 St Hilda’s

For more information contact:

Boys aged 0-7 Girls aged 0-11

The Headmaster, The Grammar School Hipperholme, Bramley Lane, Hipperholme, Halifax HX3 8JE or telephone the school on: 01422 202256 or email secretary@hipperholmegrammar.org.uk or visit thsf.org.uk for more details.

OPEN DAY SATURDAY 27th SEPTEMBER 2008 10am -12.30pm at Silcoates School, Wrenthorpe, Wakefield WF2 0PD Tel: 01924 291614 www.silcoates.co.uk

- We are ticking all the right boxes. Now is your chance to experience education as it should be.

Woodhouse Grove A Complete Education

CLIFF SCHOOL Independent Day School For Boys and Girls aged 2-11 years

Open Afternoon Tuesday 30th September 2008 4.00pm – 6.00pm

Our pupils benefit from a broad education and high academic standards within a caring, friendly environment Fabulous Nursery facilities, OFSTED Registered and approved

Pre-Prep (2-7 years) 24 Bar Lane, WF1 4AD 01924 203200

info@cliffschool.com

Prep (7-11 years) 2 Leeds Road, WF1 3JT 01924 373597

www.cliffschool.com

We look forward to welcoming you

OPEN MORNING A co-educational boarding and day school for 11 to 18 year olds, where boys and girls flourish, learn together and become prepared for the world beyond school.

Saturday 20th September From 9.30 am until 12.00 noon Headmaster’s welcome at 11.00 am For a prospectus or further information please contact the Headmaster’s Secretary on 0113 250 2477 or send an e-mail to: enquiries@woodhousegrove.co.uk Apperley Bridge West Yorkshire, BD10 ONR www.woodhousegrove.co.uk

met its aim of providing an education which recognises the contribution of all pupils, in whatever field, with success. The report concluded by saying “the academic achievements of pupils have continued to develop, with many pupils, of all abilities and ages, achieving academic standards which fulfil or exceed their potential.”

Headmaster, David Humphreys says, ‘it is without doubt the best inspection report the Grove has ever received. The Inspectors recognised that Woodhouse Grove School is successful in achieving its aim to provide opportunities for pupils to develop their talents and skills across all areas. They confirmed the quality of teaching, extra-curricular activities and pastoral care throughout the school and commended staff and pupils for the contribution they make to the happy and purposeful community they found here. In a good number of areas of school life there were examples and evidence of the very best that any school could offer.”

So if you are looking for a school with traditional values but ambitions for the future, if you are looking for an unpretentious school that seeks to make the most of its pupils’ abilities, that values individuals, celebrates achievement but seeks to nurture all - we are worth a closer look!

Come along to one of our Open Mornings which will be held at The Grove on Saturday September 20 and Saturday November 8 from 9.30 am.

Alternatively, contact the Headmaster’s Secretary to arrange an individual appointment on 0113 250 2477. We look forward to meeting you. ● SILCOATES SCHOOL FOUNDATION in Wakefield will be holding an Open Day on Saturday September 27 from 10am to 12.30pm.

To find out more about the various schools, take a look at the website www.silcoates.co.uk ● THE GIRLS’ GRAMMAR SCHOOL in Bradford is holding Open Days on Tuesday September 23 from 2pm to 6pm and Saturday November 8

from 10am to 1pm. ● RASTRICK INDEPENDENT SCHOOL is a top 10 Northern co-ed independent school which offers great opportunities for local children. Take a look at the website www.rastrickschool.co.uk or ring 01484 400344. ● Information mornings will be held on Saturday October 4 from 9.30am to 1pm at QUEEN ELIZABETH GRAMMAR SCHOOL and WAKEFIELD GIRLS’S HIGH SCHOOL.

Wo r r i e d about the 11+ Examinations?

Concerned you cannot afford Independent Education or find an alternative suitable school?

Rastrick Independent School is here to help...

• Recent three quarter million pound investment has created additional places, enabling us to reach out the the wider community • Assistance, Bursaries & Scholarships Why choose us?

• 100% Pass Rate for 14 consecutive years • 100% Pass Rate at least 5 GCSE A*-C grades including Mathematics and English • Whatever your child’s age 5-14 years you can apply for help • Preparation for life

‘The Times’- A top 10 Northern Co-Ed Independent School Also ranked 190th Nationally - Birth to 16 year olds Contact the Headmistress for an informal chat, We are here to listen.

Rastrick Independent School Ogden Lane, Rastrick, Brighouse, HD6 3HF

Tel. 01484 400344

info@rastrick-independent.co.uk

www.rastrickschool.co.uk

Good reason to smile A DENTAL practice in Huddersfield celebrated its second birthday with a party for clients and friends.

The Courtyard at Wormald’s Yard in Huddersfield town centre was set up in 2006 by Marcos White (front) with the aim of creating a new experience in the field of dental care. He wanted to combine the relaxing atmosphere and style of an exclusive spa with the professionalism of a private dental practice.

Marcos said: “It was great to bring everyone together – my team, clients and the various supporters we’ve had – and say thank you. Everyone seemed to have a good time and you could tell our clients by the brightness of their smiles!”

The Courtyard features comfortable leather sofas, subtle contemporary décor and subdued lighting to create a setting that is completely unlike the traditional sterile image of a dentist’s surgery.

Plea to keep Russia links A LEADING expert on Russia is urging Yorkshire businesses not to be sidetracked from trading with the country, despite the current dispute over Georgia hitting the headlines.

Dr Evgeny Polyakov, head of the Russian-British Business Centre at Huddersfield University, is set to outline trading opportunities with Russia when he addresses business delegates at an international trade conference in Leeds later this month.

He will be telling the International Business Advice O p e n D ay o n Tu e s d ay, September 16, at Leeds Civic Hall that Yorkshire entrepreneurs that they can be confident about dealing with Russia if they understand the thinking of the people they will be dealing with.

He’ll outline what goes on around the business table, how respect their rules – but “play your own game” – and how to manage corruption.

Dr Polyakov is a keynote speaker at the open day – the first-ever free event of its kind in the region – which is designed to help companies beat the credit crunch by trading internationally.

The event is being backed by Leeds City Council, Leeds-Bradford Airport and regional airline Jet2. It is being organised by Chamber Inter-

Dr Evgeny Polyakov national the Yorkshire support and advice body on international trading as well as chambers of commerce in Bradford, York, Sheffield and Hull.

Chamber International manager Tim Bailey said: “We know many businesses want to look at their overseas trade options, but don’t always know where to go for help, or aren’t able to dedicate all the time and money required. It’s especially true in times when the economy slows down.

“We are responding to this by offering a free event – with all the help and advice they need under one roof – at no cost.”

Clr Andrew Carter, deputy leader of Leeds City Council, said the event was crucial given the current economic climate.

He said: “We’re experien-

cing some economic uncertainty at the moment, and businesses rightly want to consider new opportunities. The fact the organisers have kept the event free shows their commitment to the business community and understanding of the issues they face just now.”

Yorkshire Chamber International was involved in exports totalling £153m last year – with textiles, engineering, chemicals, paper and packaging, toileries, food and drink among the major sectors represented.

Exhibitors at the free event will include the Institute of Export, the professional body for international trade professionals; foreighn exchange service 4xCurrency Corporation plc; HM Revenue and Customs; and Government export support arm UK Trade & Investment.

More than 300 delegates are expected to attend to explore current thinking, meet specialists in the industry and join workshops on topical issues delivered by expert speakers – as well as make the most of networking opportunities.

Free briefings have been designed both for beginners and businesses that have been trading overseas for many years.

Call 01274 230058 or see w w w. c h a m b e r - i n t e r n ational.co.uk/openday

17

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS ■ COVER STORY: Malcolm Tracey (cente), of law firm Eaton Smith, presents the Business of the Month Award to Charles Dunn (second right), of Riley Dunn and Wilson, with (from left) Paul Shelton and Anne Gerard, of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce; and Aidan Jewitt, of the Royal Bank of Scotland

Firm goes by the book to win award A BOOKBINDING business which was saved from administration to return to profitable ways has won a business award.

Riley Dunn and Wilson, based at Red Doles Lane, Huddersfield, was formed more than 100 years ago, was the latest winner of the Business of the Month Award run by local law firm Eaton Smith and the Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

The business went into administration in March last year. The company and its assets were bought by Charles Dunn, grandson of one of the founders, and his business partner Jeremy Mills in May, 2007.

Now the company is trading very profitably, recruiting more staff and continues to invest in new technology – including a digital press to give it a printing capability for the first time – as it embraces opportunities for growth.

Riley Dunn and Wilson has the enviable reputation as Britain’s best known name in library binding and restoration – qualities that helped it to capture a top contract with the French National Library.

The firm has specialist departments around the country which enable it to respond to demands from all over the UK and Europe. With more than 800 prestigious clients, it works for

professional institutions, local governments, museums and libraries in the UK, Portugal and France.

Managing director Charles Dunn said he was delighted to receive the award, adding: “This company has gone through many changes in its time.

“We may be a ‘new look-new start’ company incorporating new technology and techniques,

but we are no ‘upstarts’. This award recognises our investment in expertise and the hard work that has been put in to make it one of the best in its field.”

The Business of the Month Award is open to all companies in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. For more details visit the website www.eatonsmith.co.uk or contact Ian Greenwood, of Eaton Smith, on 01484 821389.

Housing market moves ‘don’t go far enough’ BUSINESS figures in Kirklees have offered a mixed reaction to Government measures aimed at supporting struggling home buyers.

Measures to help kick-start the housing market include a one-year freeze on stamp duty for buyers of properties up to £175,000.

That raises the threshold on which 1% stamp duty is paid from its previous level of £125,000 and will save save eligible home buyers up to £1,750 when they buy a property.

The Government is also introducing a scheme giving families struggling to meet mortgage payments the chance to sell their home and rent it back or to enter into a shared equity or shared ownership scheme on the property.

Estate agents said the moves did not go far enough. Paul Keighley, partner at Bramleys in Huddersfield, said the freeze on stamp duty would be a slight help but would not have a major impact on reviving the market.

He said: “It may well provide a boost next spring, when people can clearly see that stamp duty will go back on from September, 2009.

But the Government needs to address the mortgage market by making home loans more accessible to first-time buyers.

“They should also scrap Home Information Packs, which would save everyone putting their property on the market £350.”

Raymond Butterworth, of Boultons, said the stamp duty freeze was a step in the right direction, but claimed the biggest benefit would come by making mortgages more accessible after the credit crunch forced lenders to scrap 100% mortgages.

“A whole generation of first-time buyers who have been used to getting 100% mortgages are now being offered 90% deals and suddenly have to find that other 10% themselves,” said Mr Butterworth.

“First-time buyers have not been able to get into the market this year and release the

■ VIEWPOINTS: John Royle (right), partner in the property department at law firm Eaton Smith; and Eddie Rodgers (far right), executive chairman of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

first-time seller to move up the property ladder. There is a shortage of first-time buyers who are turning to renting rather than buying.

“Something has to happen to make mortgages more accessible, whether that means house prices falling, people going away and saving up or some form of help from the G ove r n m e n t t h ro u g h s h a re d e q u i t y schemes.”

John Royle, a partner in the property department at Huddersfield law firm Eaton Smith, said: “Increasing the stamp duty threshold will help first-time buyers and there is some help for people in difficulty through an extension of the shared equity schemes.

“This is not a complete solution, but it will help kick-start change.”

However, Eddie Rodgers, chairman of the Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said small firms also needed support.

“The Government has announced measures to assist home buyers and kick-start the housing market,” he said. “These may or may not have the desired effect, let’s hope they do.

“But yet again, the Government has failed

to announce any measures to help business, particularly small business, to weather the current economic nose dive.

“Our chamber is very disappointed that there is no recognition from Government that it is the wealth-creating sector of the economy which must be given a boost if we are to find a way through present difficulties.

“Businesses are suffering from shocking levels of taxation on fuel – which in itself is a major inflationary factor. Utility prices are out of control while the Government claims it can do nothing about it.”

Mr Rodgers called for an immediate quarter-percent cut in lending rates and said hikes in corporation tax for small businesses should be put on hold. The main rate of corporation tax should also be reduced to levels comparable with the UK’s European counterparts.

He said the “daft” new property tax levied on empty commercial property should be scrapped to restore some confidence to commercial markets.

“Talk of resilience does not in itself create resilience,” said Mr Rodgers. “Business needs a booster jab now!”

National award for clay firm’s efforts A CLAYWARE company employing many people from the Kirklees area was among the winners in the prestigious manufacturing Excellence Awards.

Naylor Drainage Ltd, based at Cawthorne, Barnsley, was named Best SME in the competition run by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

The firm was recognised for its “strategic direction, investment in process and product plus boundless enthusiasm”.

Chief executive Edward Naylor said: “Modernising the business and launching new products and ventures has taken a huge amount of work and the award is fantastic recognition of the effort that everyone has put in.”

Staff levels stay stable EIGHT out of 10 employers in Yorkshire plan to make no change to staffing levels, a survey has revealed.

Figures from recruitment agency Manpower show that 8% of bosses in the region expect to increase the size of their workforce in the final quarter of the year while a similar percentage expect to axe jobs. A massive 84% forecast no change to current staffing levels.

Amanda White, Manpower’s operations manager for Yorkshire, said: “Businesses have faced difficult times since the credit crunch and wider economic concerns have started to impact hiring plans in the region.

“As a business we’ve seen a drop in demand for permanent workers, but an increase in temporary staff – reflecting the local business need for a more flexible workforce in this challenging business climate.”

Said Ms White: “The recruitment situation is definitely tougher than it was last year, but it is not all doom and gloom with local companies still recruiting.

“We anticipate continued demand for workers in credit management and legal companies as well as a high demand for administration, secretarial and customer services staff. In addition, redevelopment in our cities indicates that Yorkshire and Humberside remains an attractive destination for new businesses.”

Some 9% of London employers plan to recruit against 1% planning cutbacks.

Bosses in the south-west and eastern England also anticipate hiring levels above the national average. But 16% of north-east employers plan to axe jobs compared with 13% looking for more workers.

Employers in the utilities sector are the most optimistic about creating jobs.

18

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

No taste for this ‘spam’

Fifth employee for finance firm

S O RT I N G o u t “spam” e-mails costs the average Kirklees business £392 a year in lost productivity for each of its employees, a survey has claimed.

Computer support company Ulysses IT said that up to three out of every four e-mails received by businesses were “spam” – and that a huge amount of time is wasted reading and deleting them.

Director Malcolm

A FINANCIAL Services firm is expanding with the appointment of a fifth member of staff and an improved website.

Lucy Woodhead has joined Robertson Baxter, based at Huddersfield Road, Shelley, as client services assistant. She is pictured (second left) with (from left) directors Stephen Baxter and Greg Robertson, client services manager Liz Townend and chairman Michael Woodhead.

The move comes as Robertson baxter unveiled an enhanced website and a new brochure.

Said Mr Baxter: “Service is paramount to us. We want and need to understand our clients inside out. By fostering close relationships and providing continuous high levels of service, we are able to provide detailed advice and manage our clients’ investments well in these hard times.”

Valve firm rises to Chinese challenge!

A VALVE manufacturer with operations in Huddersfield has helped land sales worth millions of dollars in China.

Weir Power & Industrial, which has its headquarters at Bradley and a site at Ainleys Industrial Estate, Elland, has secured major contracts for its own products and those of other Weir Group operations.

The company set up a Chinese sales office in 1998 and manufacturing operation in 2006.

Following a string of contracts for its own range of valves, it is now developing opportunities for the Weir specialty pumps business, which has become part of the power and industrial division after a shake-up of operations by the Glasgow-based group.

Recent contracts include supplying safety valves from Weir Power & Industrial France for two nuclear power plant projects.

Hopkinson and Batley-branded valves have also been specified for petrochemical and nuclear power plants.

Andrew Will, sales and marketing director for the emerging markets team, said Weir’s production system had also been successfully adopted by its Chinese manufacturing unit.

He said: “Being able to offer complete sales, manufacturing and after-sales market

■ EASTERN PROMISE: Andrew Will, sales and marketing director for the emerging markets team at Weir Power & Industrial, is optimistic of achieving more success for the company in the Chinese market

support services – all from within the territory– is providing customers with the added value they demand.

“Having a local presence in the Chinese market is clearly valuable and is helping Weir Power & Industrial establish a competitive edge in China.”

Earlier this year, Weir’s Suzhou factory

was included in Siemens’ approved supplier database for its power generation division following a customer audit.

Said Mr Will: “The accreditation further strengthens the reputation of Suzhou as a world class manufacturer of products for the power generation market and the continued growth of the operation.”

P2 takes the heat managing & protecting your wealth

contact Greg Robertson or Stephen Baxter

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A PLUMBING and heating business is keeping business flowing following a review of its IT and telephone systems.

Holmfir th-based Millside Heating Services turned to software supply specialist P2 Technologies, based at Lockwood Park, Lockwood, to review its existing IT system, which was struggling to cope with the demands of the growing business.

P2 recommended a number of improvements and installed a Microsoft Small Business Server as a centralised platform for the customer database, e-mails and other electronic data.

The move has helped

improve data security and reduced day-to-day management and maintenance.

In a bid to reduce ongoing b u s i n e s s c o s t s, P 2 a l s o installed an Avaya “Quick Edition” telephone system giving Millside Heating all the advantages of this new technology.

Calls are made over the internet via P2’s fully managed service.

Mark Antrobus, founder of Millside Heating, said: “We know how much our own customers value our fast response and quality of service, so we need the same level of support from our business partners like P2.”

Pow said: “Business is tight for many Huddersfield firms at the moment and they need to get the most out of their people.

“Having them waste time dealing with spam is just money down the drain.

“There’s no way to stop spam, but it’s fairly easy to deal with it more effectively.

“If employees don’t have to see spam, they won’t have to waste time deleting it.”

Law firm move into new office

LAW FIRM Irwin Mitchell has opened new offices in Leeds city centre.

The new offices at We l l i n g t o n P l a c e houses 212 staff, including 141 legal experts.

More than 200 people from the business community attended an opening party, which included a champagne reception and live music.

D av i d K n a g g s, regional managing partner, said: “The building is a fantastic

symbol of the development and progress being made generally in Leeds and we are glad to be a part of that.”

The firm deals with corporate and private clients and specialises in a range of practice areas, from commercial litigation and intell e c t u a l p r o p e r t y, commercial property, corporate law, IT and insolvency, to pensions, employment, transaction, family and public law.

Top level move C H A RT E R E D accountancy firm Garbutt & Elliott has a p p o i n t e d D av i d Dickinson as chairm a n a n d Ru s s e l l Turner as managing director in his place.

During seven years as managing director, Mr Dickinson guided

the firm through a challenging and ambitious growth phase, including incorporating the partnership, appointing a new generation of directors, moving to new offices and setting up G&E Wealth Management.

• Business Technology with Business Benefits • Flexible Systems & Support • Rapid Local Service • IT Budget Control • Trustworthy Engineering • Expert Advice

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19

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

TOWN TALK Sean Jarvis

Season’s greetings!

O begin with, I would like to pay T tribute to the Huddersfield public and businesses for helping to make

our Centenary game versus Arsenal – and effectively launch our Centenary season – go with a real bang.

Our supporters were brilliant and turned out in force – 19,044 to be exact, which made the Galpharm Stadium the place to be on Wednesday, August 6. What’s more, the banqueting suites were packed to the rafters with companies from all over the UK. We had planned for an attendance of anything between 12,000 and 15,000 – but with some aggressive marketing, we were quite surprised by the turnout. Which goes to show that if you put your mind to it you can make things happen and buck the economic doom and gloom.

In fact, it is that mantra that we are holding dearly at the club – to believe. We do believe that we can put in a real challenge for promotion this season. We are also fully aware that the impact of a successful football club can have on its local town and surrounding areas and what it can generate for local business.

There was once some market research undertaken in East Anglia on the impact of promotion of their local team and the conclusion was that it attracted £5m to the area.

We want to achieve promotion and repay the great support of our community.

However the message is clear. We can accelerate this kind of success if more businesses support the club and tap into our model of believing. In simple terms, we need your support in helping us achieve.

In terms of supporting the club, we have numerous options to suit a variety of budgets ranging from high profile sponsorships to the entertaining of clients.

New for this season is the Corporate Blue and White Foundation. For as little as £10 a week, a business can become a member and enjoy the numerous benefits membership holds, including the opportunity to win £20,000 and the ability to join like minded businesses in a networking event at the club.

It’s our clear aim this season to try and build some of the former glories and mount a serious challenge for promotion. There is a real buzz this time around and we are keen for as many companies to join in this success as possible. Their participation will not only accelerate Town's success but also join us in helping to communicate our message to a wider audience.

Spreading the word about Town will not stop at these shores as we are looking to break into the international community.

Closer to home, I have been invited to Ireland to give a lecture to the CEOs of their clubs about how we at Town have caused a stir within football. I am incredibly proud to be representing not only the Terriers but also the town as a whole. I will send a clear message that Huddersfield is definitely a place to watch.

As for the club, we are starting to break record after record. We think this Centenary season is going to be a special one. My message is: don't let your business miss this opportunity. Join us – it’s going to be good!

Sean Jarvis is director of business development at Huddersfield Town

■ TASTE TEST: Marcus Hanson (left), marketing director of the Miniature Bakery with colleagues (from left) Nadia Brooke and Graham Berry and David Cooper, of Cooper's Coffee

Coffee and biscuits a winning combination COFFEE and biscuits is taking on a whole new meaning for two Kirklees firms.

Bradley-based Cooper’s Coffee has been chosen as national distributor for hand-baked chocolate cakes and biscuits made by Batley-based company The Miniature Bakery.

The company’s range – which includes chocolate-covered snaps, meringues and Viennese whirls – is made by a group of bakers and chocolatiers using high quality organic ingredients approved by the Soil Association.

The range is already proving a hit with top retailers including Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Harrods. With the help of Cooper’s Coffee, The Miniature Bakery hopes to win over coffee shop customers as well.

The Miniature Bakery was founded in 2007 by a group of food enthusiasts led by

chairman Malcolm Little, a former chairman of Youngs Bluecrest andf executive of United Biscuits.

The new company began working from a small kitchen in the world-famous Batley Variety Club and supplying a handful of retailers.

The company moved to a larger bakery in June this year to enable it to increase production and seek more customers.

David Cooper, managing director of Cooper’s Coffee, said: “I’m very excited about our partnership with The Miniature Bakery. These indulgent new products, hand-baked by a team of highly-skilled bakers and chocolatiers, are unparalleled to anything I have ever tasted before.

“The Lemon Viennese Sundae, for example, looks like a biscuit but tastes like a cake. Each variety is presented in a tray with detailed product information similar to the

kind you get with chocolates, making you want to work your way through the pack until you have tried each one.

“The portions are again similar to chocolates, so they are the perfect accompaniment to an espresso or latte.”

Marcus Hanson, marketing director of The Miniature Bakery, said: “We wanted to create a partnership with a like-minded, local company that understands quality, innovation and brand so Cooper’s Coffee was the perfect fit.

“Our products aim to fuse continental p at i s s e r i e a n d c o n f e c t i o n e r y w i t h Anglo-Saxon tastes and textures to create a more sophisticated product in line with the coffee being served in the UK today.

“We feel that our range gives coffee shops the opportunity to offer a premium snack product that perfectly complements the quality of their coffee.”

Business Link boost A NEW-LOOK business support group has helped more than 22,000 companies and would-be entrepreneurs in Yorkshire during its first three months of operation.

Business Link Yorkshire, which has offices at the Textile Centre of Excellence in Huddersfield, also achieved an 89% satisfaction rate among client companies.

The organisation was launched on April 1 with headquarters in Barnsley and offices at 10 other locations, including the Textile Centre at Red Doles Lane.

The service is run by new company Y&H IDB Ltd, which won a £29m three-year contract awarded by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward. The new service replaced a system of four sub-region Business Link groups.

During its first three months, a 50-strong team of advisers has handled calls on topics

ranging from exporting to marketing and from product development to trading online.

Its website has been used by start-ups and established businesses for information on subjects ranging from the latest employment law to building a business plan.

And advisers have gone out to businesses across the region where extra support will help them to grow and develop.

Business Link Yorkshire has staged four Enterprise Shows and has run free workshops on business start-up as well as ongoing business issues such as employing people, managing finances and growing new markets.

Helen West, chief executive of Business Link Yorkshire, said: “This is a very significant achievement for a business that is only a few months old – particularly when large numbers of new staff and teams were involved in training and induction.”

■ BUSINESS SUPPORT: Helen West, chief executive of Business Link

20

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Groups in bid for glory

Seeking a ‘green’ way to cut costs in the credit crunch ENVIRONMENTAL measures could be the answer to combating the downturn, it is claimed.

Kirklees firms have been urged to cut waste, reduce raw material use and becoming more energy-efficient as a way of combating economic difficulties.

More than 85 per cent of companies questioned by sustainable business experts Envirowise on environmental measures to cut costs, chose the above actions as a way to make their businesses more profitable.

The findings follow a warning by the British Chamber of Commerce that firms face “a difficult and risky climate” in the next six to nine months with recession looming.

Envirowise said the research showed growing awareness that cutting waste and making better use of resources had become business imperatives in the current climate.

Envirowise programme manager Elaine Sharp said: “With fuel, energy and raw material costs continuing to rise and changes in the economy persisting in creating challenging marketplaces, there has never been a better time to lead the way in using resources wisely.”

Research showed a changing attitude among businesses to “green” issues. Figures from MORI showed that 60% of businesses in 2005 had an environmental policy against just 11% in 2003.

“The change in management thinking away from the early 1990s focus on sales and labour has obviously had an impact,” said Ms Sharp.

“UK businesses are increasingly recognising that resource efficiency is not an expense, but a money saving measure to be embraced and a responsibility that should be shared between employers and employees to have the biggest impact.”

Legislation had also driven businesses to adopt greener practices.

In the past 10 years, courts have handed out £3m in fines for non-compliance – while company directors have been handed sentences of eight years behind bars and more than 170 days of community service.

■ STARRY-EYED: Manager Louise Bonnar with the five-star rating for The Old Farmhouse at Hinchliffe's Farm Shop, NethertonIGHT

Five-star performance A FIVE-STAR rating has been served up to staff at a Netherton restaurant.

The Old Farmhouse, which stands alongside Hinhcliffe’s Farm Shop at Netherton Moor Road, was given the top rating for food hygiene and standards of its facilities by Kirklees Council environmental health staff following a rigorous inspection of the premises.

The inspection included checking that food was being stored properly and that food preparation areas as well as customer areas such as the dining room and toilets were kept

thoroughly clean.

Manager Louise Bonnar , who was presented with a Scores on the Doors certificate, said the restaurant was delighted with the accolade, which followed the unannounced visit.

The restaurant, which has 10 full-time staff and seats up to 50 diners, serves traditional English breakfasts and lunches, including homemade cakes and coffee, as well as evening meals on Fridays and Saturdays, using locally-sourced produce.

‘Tackle scourge of late payment’ THE credit crunch and a worsening economy have led to an increase in late payments, it was claimed.

Now the West Yorkshire Society of Chartered Accountants has highlighted some “golden rules” to help small firms make sure they are paid promptly – to keep the cash flowing.

Society president Merryck Lowe said: “Firms should make sure they know their customers and make sure they are able to pay their bills by getting a credit check on them.

“This might seem like looking a gift horse in the mouth, but a debtor becoming insolvent owing you two to three months’ work will create a big hole in your finances compared to an outlay of about £20 or so.

“Agree payment terms before you supply. If they intend taking 60 or 90 days to pay, you should find out before starting the contract and make a positive decision to take it or not and also work out a strategy for how you will manage until the

Merryck Lowe debt is paid.

“Invoice accurately, clearly and promptly. Make sure you know exactly to whom and to where invoices should be sent and what details they must contain. Raise invoices as soon as the work is completed and don’t wait until the end of the month or you could slip down their list of priorities.”

Mr Lowe said firms should

not be afraid to ask for payment.

“Telephone shortly after you send your invoice and progress the invoice through the customer’s invoice payment system, noting who you speak to and what is said in conversations,” he said. “Monitor payment performance closely and complain if promises are not kept.

“Discounts for prompt payment can be worthwhile depending on your need for the payment. The danger is that payments slip and customers still have the discount, meaning effectively a price reduction.

“Factoring and invoice discounting can help finance increasing sales. Customers must be creditworthy and you must be prepared for the additional checks and procedures which come with this sort of finance.

“On the plus side, you are likely to get more finance than from a conventional bank loan or overdraft.”

ORGANISATIONS in Huddersfield and Brighouse are bidding for top training awards.

Fleet management group FMG Support, roofing firm Ploughcroft Building Services, building products company Marshalls and Kirklees Council are among 23 organisations and individuals from Yorkshire to reach the finals of this year’s National Training Awards.

The award is the leading accolade for training in the UK. This year’s competition attracted 727 entries across the country. Judges have whittled them down to 232 finalists. The Yorkshire and Humber winners will get their awards on September 30 at a ceremony in Leeds.

FMG Support, based at St Andrew’s Road in Huddersfield, was recognised for a management development programme which has resulted in increased levels of business.

FMG, founded in 1986 and employing more than 300 people, provides services including incident management, roadside repair, recovery management and vehicle rental management for clients including Royal Mail, Carlsberg and Xerox.

Brighouse-based Ploughcroft won its place among the finalists for a scheme to help individuals in Kirklees and Calderdale facing barriers in returning to work to gain building skills.

A 10-day course involves candidates undertaking roofing or plastering, health and safety, tower scaffolding training and Construction Skills Certification Scheme tests. Trainees get their own tools and protection equipment and those passing the tests get CSCS cards needed by the construction industry for working on a building site.

Marshalls, which has its registered office at Birkby and operations at Lowfields, Elland, was recognised for a training programme covering issues such as health and safety best practice and personal development which is delivered to some 1,500 employees at its UK manufacturing sites.

Marshalls, the UK’s leading supplier of concrete and stone for pavements, driveways and patios, first developed the scheme for employees at its premises in Brookfoot, Brighouse, before extending it across the group.

Kirklees Council’s adult and communities directorate was rewarded for training staff in new ways to work with people who have dementia.

Other Yorkshire winners included Bradford and Bingley, Doncaster College, Scarborough Building Society, Norwich Union, Barnados, Morrisons and the Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust.

PR agency adds to strong regional team PUBLIC relations agency Golley Slater has strengthened its team with three appointments.

Joining the agency are senior account manager Nina Hands and account executive Laura Craggs, Employee Sarah Stafford has been promoted to senior account executive.

Ms Hands has five years PR experience and previously worked at Brahm. She will work on accounts such as Oxford Hotels, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and Hammerson Plc. Ms Craggs, a PR graduate from Leeds Metropolitan University, will handle accounts such as recruitment agency Ellis Fairbank, baker Greggs and law firm Last Cawthra Feather.

Ms Stafford joined Golley Slater just over a year ago.

21

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

PROPERTY FOCUS

Industry approves ‘green’ bid to improve energy efficiency CALLS to introduce “green” property taxes to encourage commercial landlords and tenants to make their properties more energy efficient have been welcomed by a leading surveyor.

Plans for such a move were suggested by Cancellor Alistair Darling in the March budget. More details were unveiled by Treasury policy adviser Anna Sylvester at the recent conference of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

She confirmed that ministers were set to discuss financial incentives. A public consultation is expected to take place later in the year.

Businesses are currently responsible for about half of all the UK's carbon emissions and one small office can emit three to five tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. Yet industry experts say very little has been done to encourage landlords and tenants to invest in green initiatives.

Alex Munro, partner at Knight Frank in Leeds, said: “Green tax breaks would be excellent news for the market.

“It would enable landlords and tenants to upgrade the environmental credentials of

their buildings, which can help to attract new tenants as well as help to keep existing ones.

Existing business occupiers will benefit from lower running costs.

“Climate change is an issue that is very high on the public agenda and many landlords are expressing an interest in investing in their green credentials. Developers of new buildings are particularly aware of the need to develop green buildings.”

But Mr Munro said that for many, the figures for “going green” simply didn’t add up. In addition to the cost of materials and technology, they were now hit with empty property rates.

Yet, there was no proof that enhanced green credentials could generate a return either through higher rents or higher capital values. Green tax breaks would help environmental developments to make sense from a business point of view.

Said Mr Munro: “Environmental issues are moving higher on the political agenda.

However, if the Government is to meet its targets to reduce emissions by 60% by 2050 ministers need to move fast to support these goals to reduce commercial and residential

■ BUILDING A CASE: Alex Munro, partner at Knight Frank, said building industry businesses would welcome incentives to be more green

property emissions.

Earlier this year, the Government tried to introduce regulatory legislation in the form of compulsory Energy Performance Certificates, ensuring that developers account for the efficiency of the building.

However, they were forced to delay the introduction of EPCs by up to six months due to a lack of energy assessors.

Mr Munro said that as plans for green tax breaks progressed, they were likely to face a number of barriers in terms of the cost and complexity and ensuring that they fit with

Employing Overseas Workers Do you employ or plan to employ people from outside the UK? If so, come along to our free Breakfast Workshop and get to grips with the regulations and practicalities of employing overseas workers.

You can also find out what help and support is available to you and your business.

The Workshop is being run jointly by Enterprise Europe Yorkshire and the Kirklees Business Partnership to provide a down-to-earth guide for companies who want to fill vital skills shortages and make sure they get it right.

Tuesday 23 September 2008 8.00am to 11.00am Textile Centre of Excellence, Red Doles Lane, Huddersfield

European Union initiatives such as the drive to encourage greener electricity generation.

Said MR Munro: “To date, the government’s attempts to influence development have shown too much stick and not enough carrot. However, as ever, the devil is in the detail.

“The penal measure of reintroducing business rates for empty property was an attempt to encourage the refurbishment of disused buildings by removing the rates relief on vacant buildings. Instead, it is threatening to deter speculative development and place impossible financial pressure on developers who had not factored these additional rates into the cost of their projects.

“Members of the construction industry have long been lobbying for the introduction of financial incentives for green development.

“Whatever pressures and barriers the Government face, we hope that they will consult with the market and work hard to introduce this legislation, which has the potential to create a greener and more sustainable construction sector.”

Employing Overseas Workers Kirklees Business Partnership and Enterprise Europe Yorkshire Breakfast Workshop Tuesday 23 September 2008 Textile Centre of Excellence, Red Doles Lane, Huddersfield 8.00

Continental Breakfast and Networking

8.30

Welcome and Introduction Vicki Stratford, Kirklees Business Partnership

8.35

An introduction to the new points system Katherine Holmes and Kerry Zuccolo Home Office Border Agency

9.00

Using EURES to recruit from Europe Anne-Marie Pickles, Regional EURES Adviser

9.25

Tax and National Insurance what you need to know Claire Johnson, HM Revenue and Customs

9.50

Health and Safety are we talking the same language?

Kim Walker, Kirklees Council Environmental Services

10.15

Creating the right workplace culture to integrate overseas workers Rich Jones, Acas

10.40

Company Case Study - Bonmarché Caroline Parkinson, Head of HR

11.00

Close

To secure your place telephone 01484 226699 or email vicki.stratford@kirklees.gov.uk

22

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

PROPERTY FOCUS

Revamp for shops A NEW concept in shopping has come to Cleckheaton.

Property company Tavirno Ltd has completed the refurbishment of the town centre’s Central Arcade and Titan House – in a move designed to attract new businesses.

The redevelopment includes the creation of individual shop units – or pods – that can be run by one person. Each pod offers 130sq ft of selling space in a prime location.

Two units have already opened and are occupied by Mitchell’s Traditional and Bargain Confectionery and Peppermint Pig Country-Style Gifts and Homeware.

Other units are expected to open in early autumn.

The scheme also includes Centre Stage, a large, open platform at the Cheapside end of Central Arcade, which provides space for local charities, bands, arts and craft clubs and other non profit-making organisations to use free on a daily basis.

Daily or weekly commercial lettings for businesses will also be available.

The refurbishment of Central Arcade includes new flooring and lighting to create an attractive, safe, covered walkway through the centre of town with mall-type shops.

Titan House, meanwhile, provides luxury office accommodation ranging from an individual, single-occupancy office to a large multi-occupancy, open-plan office providing accommodation for up to 50 people.

Some 28 units are available on an “easy-in, easy-out” basis with no long term commitment from tenants.

Both initiatives are intended to stimulate commercial activity in the town and provide the flexibility to attract small, start-up busi-

■ WELL DONE: At the plaque unveiling are (from left) Clr Ken Sims; Stefan Simmonds, managing director of Titan Business Centre; Kirklees mayor Clr Karam Hussain; Clr Ann Raistrick; and Keith Joplin, president of Spenborough Chamber of Trade & Commerce

nesses right through to growing, established operations.

Kirklees Mayor Clr Kasam Hussain unveiled a commemorative plaque and officially opened the business centre while Clr

Ken Sims, cabinet member for regeneration, also congratulated owner Stefan Simmonds for his investment and contribution to the transformation and regeneration of Cleckheaton.

Concrete progress at MEPC

A BU S I N E S S p a r k developer is using innovative concrete technology to help customers save energy.

MEPC is using the new technology at its Wellington Place development in Leeds to help mitigate the cause and effect of climate change.

Overnight when the office is empty, the concrete structure will slowly cool using outside air drawn through windows that can be opened automatically. Then during the day, up to 30% of heat generated by office activity will be absorbed by the cooled concrete – cutting energy consumption linked to the use of air conditioning.

This is the first time that Leeds city centre has seen the use of this technology in an office building which will help cut energy output in buildings by up to 20% relative

to other equipment modern buildings.

Bill Scott, head of projects at MEPC, said: “In c o nv e n t i o n a l o ff i c e buildings, the structure is usually hidden behind suspended ceilings.

“We have decided to omit the normal ceilings and use the structure above to form them. We will do this in a high quality concrete which – combined with an enhanced ceiling height plus careful selection and location of lights – will provide a very pleasing light and lofty internal feeling of space.

“We will then be able to exploit the thermal properties of the exposed concrete to help regulate the temperatures of the office spaces below, thus reducing the energy consumption and carbon footprint of the buildings.”

■ PUB SIGN: The White Lion Hotel, a 17th century inn overlooking Hebden Water in Hebden Bridge, has been sold on behalf of Lesley Clarkson to American buyer Chris Rochford by Christie + Co

Pub dream realised AN English-born American has realised his dream of owning a traditional village pub.

The White Lion Hotel, a 17th century coaching inn at Hebden Bridge, has been sold through the Leeds office of licensed property agent Christie + Co. It was sold for an undisclosed sum off an asking pice of £135,000 for the leasehold interest and annual rent of £63,250.

The White Lion, built in 1657, is the oldest inn in Hebden Bridge and was originally known as King’s Farm when it began life as a hostelry serving the river crossing. Over following centuries, it became an important coaching inn

on the Halifax to Rochdale road.

The two-storey stone-built hotel offers 10 en suite bedrooms, a bar, snug and dining areas, a first floor function room for 50 as well as a three-bedroom owner’s flat and separate one-bedroom flat.

Steven Fidler of the Leeds office of Christie + Co, comments: “We are delighted to have sold the White Lion Hotel on behalf of Lesley Clarkson who is retiring after 14 years of ownership.

“The purchaser, Chris Rochford, was born in England, emigrated to America in 1975 but has now returned with his American partner to fulfill their dream of owning an English village pub.”

Co-op calls on landlord and tenant specialists THE Co-operative Group has appointed Sanderson Weatherall to provide professional advice on more than 600 head lease operational rent reviews and lease renewals across northern England.

A team of landlord and tenant specialists from Sanderson Weatherall’s offices in Leeds, Manchester, Teesside and Newcastle will handle the transactions, which encompass a range of businesses including retail, health, travel and funerals.

David Rastrick, director at Sanderson Weatherall, said: “This contract is fantastic news for the landlord and tenant team and bears testament to the high level of service we have delivered to the Co-operative Group since our relationship began.

“We look forward to developing this further over the coming years.”

Sanderson Weatherall was last year appointed by The Co-operative Group to manage its substantial national investment portfolio.

Asset management teams at the firm have taken on responsibility for all day-to-day management aspects of 186 properties.

Buyer for caravan store site

A CARAVAN storage site in Worksop has been acquired by Leeds-based Leeds Caravan Storage Ltd in a £825,000 deal funded by NatWest.

The new site boasts almost six acres of caravan storage and a four-bedroom house. It has the capacity to accommodate 380 caravans, touring caravans and motor homes.

Leeds Caravans Storage Ltd plans to invest over the next few years to create an additional 120 pitches by demolishing dilapidated buildings using an adjacent field, which already has the necessary planning permission.

Leeds Caravan Storage Ltd was founded in 2001 by husband and wife team Paul and Karen McFadden. It already has a storage site in Leeds. The McFaddens are seeking a plot of land in Yorkshire to provide a third storage site.

Mrs McFadden said: ““The new site in Worksop is a well-established business that has provided a great service to its customer base for more than 20 years.

“Development of the site will enable us to further meet customer demand and reduce our current waiting list for Leeds as well as Worksop.”

The funding solution was provided by Chris Morley and Sarah Cutt, of NatWest. Ms Cutt, manager of commercial banking, said: ““Leeds Caravan Storage Ltd has achieved a great deal over the past seven years, building up a thriving business with an enviable reputation to match. The additional site will enable them to continue with their ambitious plans for growth.”

IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE ON FLEXIBLE TERMS

PROPERTY FOCUS

Elland firms scale heights to win awards TWO Elland firms have scaled new heights to achieve a top safety certificate for the fifth year running – as they embark on a period of fresh expansion.

Michael Wilson & Son and Wilson Access Hire have been again accredited to the SAFEconstractor programme, which recognises high standards of health and safety practice among UK contractors.

Michael Wilson & Son is mainly involved by industrial and commercial property maintenance, including applying liquid roofing and carrying out stone and concrete repairs. Wilson Access Hire Ltd provides access equipment, including hydraulic platforms, to all industries UK-wide.

SAFEcontractor accreditation aims to improve a company’s ability to attract new contracts and means its commitment to safety is viewed positively by insurers when the company’s policy comes up for renewal.

The SAFEcontractor scheme is run by international safety, health and environ-

Further lettings now completed

Various units of 5,000 to 20,000 sq ft NOw AVAILABLE

Barncliffe Business Park, Shelley, Huddersfield • Series of interconnecting Warehouse & Workshop Units • Range of various size office suites and commercial space • Well located in south Huddersfield area with good links to M1 motorway • Good on site loading and significant car parking

mental risk assessment specialist the National Britannia Group and is applied to most sectors, including food manufacture, property facilities management, retailing and leisure.

James Ostler, managing director of information services at National Britannia, said: “Major organisations can no longer run the risk of employing contractors who are not able to prove that they have sound health and safety policies.

“More companies need to understand the importance of adopting good risk management in the way that Michael Wilson & Son and Wilson Access Hire Ltd have done.

Their high standard has set an example which, hopefully, will be followed by other companies in the sector.”

The SAFEcontractor system puts firms through a vetting process examining their health and safety procedures and their track record for safe practice. Companies meeting the standard are listed on a database accessible to registered users via a website.

0113 2348999

www.michaelsteel.co.uk

014 8 4 4 32 0 4 3

Contact Jason Metcalfe or Mark Hanson

01484 4 32043 The Old Gatehouse

68 New North Road

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TO LET

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FOR SALE/TO LET

3,087 to 8,282 sq ft

2,500 - 8,600 sq ft

5,482 sq ft

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Character waterside offices appointed to a high specification. Ample on site car parking Close to junction 24 M62. Available as a whole or individually

Newly refurbished high specification offices. On site car parking. Close to junction 24 M62

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Showroom premises with retail consent Suitable for a variety of commercial uses Off Leeds Road close to Dewsbury ring road

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Joint agent Michael Steel & Co.

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24

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

PROPERTY

FOCUS

Builders fail to pass on costs

■ DRIVING FORCE: Ploughcroft managing director Chris Hopkins with one of the Brighouse roofing company's Mercedes ECO-Start vans

Going greener at Ploughcroft A ROOFING company is on a high after buying a fleet of “green” machines.

Brighouse-based Ploughcroft Ltd has taken delivery of three Mercedes ECo-Start vans to cut exhaust emissions and slash its fuel bills.

The vehicle automatically cuts the engine when standing for more than two seconds and restarts it when the driver depresses the clutch. The vans are able to significantly reduce fuel consumption, especially in busy city centres or heavy traffic.

The new vans will cut the company’s vehicle fuel bills by at least 6%.

The move is the latest part of a wider environmental strategy for Ploughcroft, which has just gained accreditation to the internationally-recognised environmental standard ISO 14001.

The firm has already achieved the IS0 9001 quality standard and the ISO 18001 health and safety management standard.

Managing director Chris Hopkins said: “Over the last few years, we have built a solid reputation for raising standards in roofing and building generally through our purpose-built training facilities and

courses, which we have opened to other companies.

“Our passion for quality and for health and safety is matched by our commitment to the environment.

“We set out to strike the delicate balance between maintaining profitability and reducing environmental impact and we continually review our management processes and working methods to find new and better ways to do that.”

The company’s recycling policies include using slates and mortar from roof jobs as hardcore; separating out wood, copper and steel; recycling toner cartridges and paper in its offices and looking at reducing fuel use and carbon emissions.

The company has also trained its workforce to fit “green” roofing options, such as solar thermal panels.

It transfers savings made from recycling activities to an employee’s welfare fund for use in team building activities and social events – a practice that recently led to it being nominated as the Best Place to Work in a construction industry competition.

Manager joins property team Paul Needham has been appointed commercial manager at Huddersfield-based property designers and developers, Über Massclusive (UK) Ltd. Mr Needham (pictured) has extensive commercial experience in the construction industry working for national contractors including Wilmott Dixon & Gleesons.

Director Richard Sommerville, based at the Media Centre, Northumberland Street, said “Mr Needham would prove an invaluable member of Über’s teams at its Clegg Hall Mills site in Littleborough and its Atlas Mill site in Bolton.”

BUILDERS in Yorkshire are failing to pass on the full impact of rising costs for materials and wages – amid fears of a credit crunch “backlash” from clients unable to secure finance for new developments.

A survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors showed that the price of new construction work in the region fell by 2.4% during the second quarter of the year – even though costs rose by 1.1% during the same period.

Construction companies reported a 6% fall in workloads for public housing projects and a 10% decline for private housing schemes – countered by an increase for public sector and commercial work.

However, firms said they expected to see a continuing fall in new work output during 2 0 0 8 – w i t h wo rk l o a d s re m a i n i n g unchanged in 2009 and only increasing in 2010.

Peter Rumble, manager of the RICS’ building cost information service, said contractors appeared to be nervous about future workloads.

New work output was expected to fall slightly this year – but builders’ costs were expected to remain “quite strong” over the coming year.

“The credit crunch and the slowdown in economic growth are expected to have a greater effect on construction output than first thought,” said Mr Rumble.

“However, it is anticipated that the public non-housing and infrastructure sectors will both grow over the next three years, with particularly strong growth in 2008 and 2009.”

Colin Harrop, spokesman for the RICS in Yorkshire and Humber, said: “The latest tender prices survey shows that the regional industry is still very much open for business.

“The figures reveal that contractors are performing well against a difficult background and that their prices are competitive.

Locally-based contractors continue to offer good value and excellent levels of customer service.”

■ STEPPING UP: Andy Davies (left), construction director for Miller Homes Yorkshire, with (from left) managing director Steve Birch and award-winning site managers Laurence McLaughlin, Vic Young and Chris Rowlands

Site managers win national recognition THREE site managers with housebuilder Miller Homes Yorkshire have been recognised in a national competition.

The three, who are in charge of developments at Wakefield, Ollerton and Bradford, have gained National House Building Council Quality Awards for achieving consistently high standards.

Andy Davies, construction manager for Miller Homes, said: “This is an exceptional achievement. The standards are high and must be achieved at all stages of the build.

“The independent adjudicators are stringent with the criteria and to have three of

second year in a row – is a remarkable achievement that makes the whole region proud.”

Two-time winner Laurence McLaughlin is site manager for Miller’s Fairfield Manor development in Wakefield while Vic Young is site manager for The Meadows in Ollerton and Chris Rowlands is in charge at Stonegarth in Bradford.

The candidates were judged on their commitment to high standards in all areas of the construction process. Judges visited the sites at key stages of construction and the site managers had to prove that they have effective control of all areas of their site at all

25

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

PROPERTY FOCUS

Rok on track to complete school work A BUILDING firm is laying the ground for further learning at Batley Grammar School.

Wakefield-based Rok is working with building design firm Martin Walsh Associates to provide a new sixth form centre at the school.

The floor is now in place and work is on schedule for completion in October.

The £400,000 two-storey extension will provide three extra classrooms, as well as a host of student facilities, including a study room with computers and video conferencing facilities.

There will also be a relaxation area for students, including a kitchen and tuck shop in the centre, which is being built at the back of the main building, adjoining a existing 1930s-built block.

The project is the latest for Rok in the education sector, where it is growing in strength with building and maintenance projects.

The company has won nine major new education contracts resulting in revenues totalling £124m.

Recent projects in Yorkshire have

Last unit to go at Pennine JUST one unit remains at Pennine Business Park in Bradley following the competion of two further deals by joint agents Eddisons and Walker Singleton on behalf of Commercial Development Projects Ltd. Kinetic Systems Ltd. has completed the purchase of unit 14, which measures 5,000sq ft, off an asking price of £850,000.

And Interactive Driving Systems, which work with organisations to help improve driver standards and safety among their staff has leased unit 6 which extends to 4,000sq ft off an asking rent of £60,000 a year.

The last remaining office unit of 4,000sq ft is available to buy or lease.

included building children’s centres for two schools and repairing fire damage at Pentland Infant and Nursery School in Savile Town.

It has also built four children’s centres on behalf of Wakefield Council.

Rok is also currently working on schemes at schools in Bradford and Wakefield.

Rok spokesman Paul Franklin said: “The education sector is one in which Rok continues to grow, with much of the work coming as repeat business from local authorities we have worked with in the past.

“This new sixth form centre at Batley Grammar School is Rok’s latest project in the education sector and with work pushing on, we are confident that not only the school, but also the students, will be really happy with the new facility we are delivering.”

Headteacher, Brigid Tullie, said: “The building of our new sixth form block is an exciting development for the school. The work on site is progressing well.”

■ ROOFTOP: Architect Andrew Daisey with site manager (centre) and Batley Grammar School head teacher Brigid Tullie view the plans for the £400,000 project to provide improved facilities for sixth formers

Fistful of deals for Eddisons THE Huddersfield office of leading c h a r t e re d s u r ve yo r s E dd i s o n s h a s announced deals on more than 40,000sq ft of industrial units at locations across Kirklees.

A string of lettings totalling over 19,000sq ft have been concluded at Bankfield Business Park in Mirfield on units ranging from 625sq ft to 5,500sq ft off asking rents from £1.75 per sq ft.

The former Joseph Barraclough site is now owned by Wharfedale Finance Company, which has carried out extensive refurbishment since acquiring the site in 2007 to create a range of workshops, warehouses, storage units and secure compounds.

There are still units available from 330 sq ft to over 50,000 sq ft on the site which is conveniently located for Huddersfield and the motorway network. Hanson Chartered Surveyors acted as joint agents.

Meanwhile, the last remaining industrial/warehouse unit at Fieldhouse Business Park, off Leeds Road in Huddersfield has been let to TAPS Ltd off an asking rent of £57,000 a year on the instructions of MB Services.

Elsewhere, Florelle Importing, a specialist importer of dried flowers, has taken three units totalling over 10,000sq ft at Holme Bank Mills, Station Road, Mirfield on the instructions of James Walker Properties

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AGENTS CONSULTANT ADVISOR •

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■ DOING DEALS: Paul Andrew, head of agency at property agent Eddisons in Huddersfield

Ltd. Paul Andrew, head of agency at the Huddersfield office of Eddisons, said: ’We are delighted to have concluded these deals on behalf of our clients despite tough market conditions, which show a continuing confidence in Huddersfield as a business location.

“The units are of a high quality and benefit from excellent road links which contributes to their appeal.”

Queens Mill Industrial Estate

Trafalgar Mills

Queens Mill Road, Huddersfield 1 mile from town centre, easy access to M1/M62 Modern Industrial Units to let Mezzanine floor Unit 19 ....4966 square feet Unit 20 ....5362 square feet

Leeds Road, Huddersfield 2nd floor offices to let 4376 square feet Modern hi-tec office unit can be subdivided

Brockholes Business Park

New Mill Road, Brockholes 41/2 miles from town centre, easy access to motorway network Unit to let in attractive business park Unit 11 ....985 square feet

Contact:

Jason Metcalfe Hanson Chartered Surveyors 01484 432043

Broadfield Mills

Albert Street, Huddersfield Unit 1a . .6650 square feet Mezzanine floor Junction 25 Business Park 3 months rent free on leasings

Mirfield completed within September!

Good access to motorway network Modern Units to let Unit 2 . . .5272 square feet Unit 3a . .4793 square feet Unit 5 . . .2953 square feet Paul Andrew Eddisons 01484 533151

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eddisons.com

The Other Rooms 41-45 Queensgate, Huddersfield

PROPERTY FOCUS

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 D,E & F Ainleys Industrial Estate off Huddersfield Road, Elland TO LET

industrialindustrialindustrial

710 m² - 2,142 m² (7,645 sq ft - 23,058 sq ft) Good quality industrial/warehouse accommodation Located short distance from junction 24 of M62 motorway Generous yard and car parking provision

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

Bradford Road, Cleckheaton TO LET

From 231 m² (2,486 sq ft) Prominent main road frontage. Various workshop/ warehouse units available. Close proximity to junction 26 of M62

Wakefield Road Lepton, Huddersfield TO LET

officeofficeofficeoffice

11.72 m² - 193.15 m² (126 sq ft - 2,078 sq ft) Newly refurbished office accommodation. Generous car parking provision. Prominent position fronting A642 Wakefield Road

Ellerslie House, Queens Road Edgerton, Huddersfield TO LET

39 m² - 294 m² (421 sq ft - 3,161 sq ft) Generous car parking provision. High quality office suites Convenient for Huddersfield town centre and junction 24 of M62

Contact Paul Andrew or Philip Deakin

01484 533151

Oak House New North Road Huddersfield HD1 5LG Birmingham Bradford Bristol Glasgow Huddersfield Leeds London Manchester

eddisons.com

Eddisons

■ CENTRE PIECE: Colin Harrop (right), regional board chairman for the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, joins Mike Bezzano, of Mirus Management Services Ltd, at the Icon Business Centre in Leeds for the launch of the RICS Pro Yorkshire Awards

Best buildings

THE search is under way to find the best new buildings in Yorkshire.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has launched the 2009 Pro Yorkshire Awards with an event at the Icon Business Centre in Leeds.

The centre was winner of the category for sustainability in the 2008 awards.

This year, judges will be looking for leading examples of best practice in Yorkshire and Humberside under eight categories – building conservation, regeneration, sustainability, community benefit, commercial, residential, tourism and leisure, innovation and design.

The top award for project of the Year will be chosen from the eight winners.

Colin Harrop, chairman of the RICS Yorkshire and Humberside board, said: “This is the eighth year we will be running the awards and the standard of projects we’ve seen in previous years has been

incredibly high.

“We predict it will be even more diverse and better quality this year having seen some of the excellent schemes currently underway in the region.

“Yorkshire and Humber had the second highest number of entries in the country last year and we hope to gain a similar amount, if not more, this time round.

“The awards highlight the vital role chartered surveyors and other skilled specialists play in our society.

“It’s important to recognise that behind every successful development there is a team of highly talented and trained individuals.”

For more information on entering the Pro Yorkshire awards or to receive an entry fo r m , c o n t a c t Je n n i e D y s o n o n jdyson@rics.org or telephone 01924 229304.

Agents get the Punch line PROPERTY agent Christie + Co has been instructed by Punch Taverns to market 50 managed houses as lease opportunities.

The pubs, which are spread across the UK, are part of Punch Taverns’ 868-strong Spirit Group estate. Most of the pubs are offered on 10 to 15-year tied assignable leases. The pubs include ones in Wetherby, Bradford, York and Rotherham.

Chris Hedges, special projects director at Punch Taverns, said: “As with any pub operator, we constantly review our estate to maximise the potential of our pubs.

“One of our key strengths is that we have the ability to make sure that we have the right pub in the right place, operating under

the best model.

“As part of business as usual, we have identified about 50 pubs to transfer from our managed to leased estates.”

Neil Morgan, head of pubs and restaurants at Christie + Co, said: “We are delighted to offer these exceptional pubs for lease to the market. They represent tremendous opportunities for existing and aspiring retailers to operate quality pubs.”

In January, 2006, Punch Taverns instructed Christie + Co to let 650 pubs from the Spirit Group. Christie + Co successfully undertook the conversion from managed to leased of about 630 pubs over an 18-month period.

27

October, 2008

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

PROPERTY FOCUS

Brownfield sites hold key to plan for housing

Property bargains come under the hammer to raise £2.3m PROPERTiES coming under the hammer realised a total of £2.3m at a recent auction.

Eddisons reported competitive bidding from bargain-hunting buyers at the Northern property Auction held by the agency in Leeds.

Auctioneer Andrew Brown said: “All in all, we had a good day and the results demonstrate that there is still a healthy appetite among buyers providing properties are sensibly priced and perceived as offering value for money.

“There is no doubt the good atmosphere in the room and the competitive bidding was a direct result of these criteria being met.”

Some 54 properties out of 81 lots were sold for a total of £2.3m. The residential sector performed particularly well with 25 – some 80% – of the lots offered being snapped up.

Said Mr Brown: “Once again, it was the residential lots which attracted the most interest which is clearly where buyers see the best value.

“While the figures in no way suggest a turnaround in the market, they does indicate that at the right price there is still money out there which buyers are prepared to part with.”

■ ALL SET FOR THE SALES: Gail Lindsey (left) and Tracy Slater have joined Jones Homes as sales negotiators

Sales staff join Jones Homes HOUSEBUILDER Jones Homes has recruited two new sales staff.

Tracy Slater, of Gomersal, and Gail Lindsay, from Selby, will oversee sales at two of Jones Homes’ most successful developments.

Tracy will be based at the company’s Norwood View development in Wyke and Gail will manage the Brooklands

View development in Skelmanthorpe.

Both are experienced sales negotiators with nearly 30 years experience in the industry.

They will provide the first point of contact for prospective home buyers and will be responsible for managing the sales process from the initial viewing through to completion and ensuring that buyers move swiftly and

effortlessly into their new Jones Homes property.

Jones Homes’ sales and marketing director, Jayne Swift, said: “We are delighted to welcome Tracy and Gail to the Jones Homes team. They both bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge of the housebuilding industry and I wish them every success in their new roles.”

Senior surveyors named

COMMERCIAL property experts CB Richard Ellis has announced two key promotions at its Leeds office serving Yorkshire and the north-east.

Stephen Raper has become a senior surveyor in the valuation team while Steven Taylor, of Bawtry, near Doncaster, has been promoted to senior surveyor for the building consultancy division. Both will be based at CBRE’s Kings Street offices in Leeds.

Mr Raper, who joined the firm in February, 2007, will continue with the provision of valuation advice to banks, property companies and other corporate clients, including several investment funds in the north-east and Yorkshire.

Mr Taylor joined CBRE in January, FOR SALE 2007, as a surveyor in the building conResidential Development Site sultancy team. He Land at Bramston Street, Rastrick, will continue to work Brighouse, HD6 3AA on a full range of • Extending to 0.17 Hectares (0.42 Acre) building surveying • Planning consent for development of 58 duties, focusing on apartments with undercroft car park • Potential for alternative scheme/use project-based • OIRO: £450,000 instructions, including commercial and walkersingleton.co.uk industrial refurbish- ■ PROMOTIONS: Stephen Raper (left) and Steven Taylor, of CB ments and altera- Richard Ellis in Leeds have been appointed to senior surveyors 01422 430000

DEVELOPMENT of brownfield sites will be essential to the property market over the next 10 years, an expert has warned.

Julian D’Arcy, regional head of residential development for international property consultancy Knight Frank, said that the Government’s plans to build thousands of homes in Yorkshire over the next 20 years would eat into greenbelt areas unless brownfield land is used.

He said: “The redevelopment of brownfield land is also crucial to urban regeneration.

“A lot of brownfield sites are derelict or disused land and this acts as blight on both the landscape and the community, as well as detracting inward investment by creating a negative image of the area.”

Said Mr D’Arcy: “Despite the importance of these sites, there is still a lot of confusion surrounding the term ‘brownfield’ and what it actually means.

“Put simply, a brownfield site is land which has previously been developed, but which is no longer in use for that purpose.

“The problem is that most people only hear about brownfield land has through media coverage, which has generally focused on two controversial types of brownfield sites, contaminated land and back garden.”

Contaminated land has worried developers because of the costs of cleaning the site to make it fit for use.

Mr D’Arcy said that since April, 2007, the Government has granted councils new powers to prevent so called ‘garden grabbing’, allowing local planning authorities to specify different targets for different kinds of brownfield land.

This enabled the local authorities to restrict development on residential sites if they have alternative viable land available.

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walkersingleton.co.uk 01422 430000

WE BRING BUSINESS FACE TO FACE WITH BUSINESS

Calling for customer service

Coffee firm’s cup of cheer!

A GOLD medal winning coffee company has been giving customers a taste of success.

Grumpy Mule, based at Meltham, struck gold three times in the 2008 Great Taste Awards for its distinctive coffees from Rwanda, Panama and Ethiopia.

The company spread the word about its win by staging a coffee tasting session at Thorncliffe Farm Shop in Emley. Customers were invited to sample its blends and complete for a chance to visit the roastery, roast their own beans and get a year’s supply of award winning coffee.

Grumpy Mule’s three golds included one of only 72 three Star Gold Awards presented nationally for its Rwanda Musasa Cooperative Arabica Coffee, which the judges selected as an outstanding example from more than 4,800 speciality food and drink products entered this year.

From its base at Bolling Coffee, Bent Ley Road, Grumpy Mule travels the world to source the finest, most distinctive coffees before roasting and packaging them at the roastery.

Grumpy Mule’s Damian Blackburn is a judge in the Cup of Excellence competi-

■ BEST BREW: Rob Wagstaff, retail sales executive for Grumpy Mule,, shares some of the award-winning coffee with Gill Pace, assistant at Thorncliffe Farm Shop, Emley

tions, the international contest that identifies the best coffee beans from each coffee growing region.

He said: “We are thrilled with our success in the Great Taste Awards this year and to celebrate we decided to join with one of our Yorkshire retailers and host a tasting session that would let food and drink lovers taste our award winning coffees for themselves.”

Matt Craddock, owner of Thorncliffe Farm Shop, has been a fan of Grumpy Mule coffees since they were launched last year. He said: “Our customers love trying new things, so we were keen to offer Grumpy Mule’s distinctive coffees when we

first learnt about them.

“Yorkshire is a fantastic location for great local produce and I am passionate about showing the huge variety, from the traditional tastes we all know and love to the more unexpected and exotic ingredients and specialities.

“The Grumpy Mule team has travelled the world to source these fabulous award-winning coffees from East Africa and Panama before roasting them right on our doorstep.”

The Great Taste Awards, which is organised by the Guild of Fine Food and billed as the Oscars of the food industry, celebrated its 15th anniversary this year.

CONSUMERS in Yorkshire are tops for voting with their feet on poor customer service.

A survey revealed that 39% of consumers in the region have changed suppliers or products as a result of bad customer service from call centres.

That compares with 35% in the UK as a whole.

Half of Yorkshire residents said they found it “highly frustrating” to be kept on hold for long periods when phoning call centres – while 60% said a “negative” call centre experience would make them less loyal to a brand.

The survey by independent research body GfK for Call Centre Focus magazine coincides with a national industry initiative to find the top 50 call centres for customer service..

Among the other findings, 57% in Yorkshire said they were more likely to purchase from a company if they had a positive call centre experience, compared to 49% of the UK. Some 48% said they got annoyed by having to repeat themselves to several people against 42% nationally.

Twelve Yorkshire call centres are among the top 50 chosen in the Call Centre Focus poll following a series of “mystery shopper” calls. They include call centres for Abbey, Direct Line, Nationwide, F&C Investments, Sky and Virgin Atlantic.

Cheryl Robertson, director of retail client services at F&C Investments, said: “The Top 50 Call Centres is all about changing the negative perception of call centres, an objective that we fully support.

“We believe our call centres play a crucial part in our relationship with our customers and are delighted that this initiative has given us the opportunity not only to benchmark ourselves against the very best, but also to shout about the great service that is provided day in and out by our enthusiastic and professional teams.”

Graduate is proving his worth with Keighley firm

Yorkshire’s Legal People.

ments.

Neelam Kader and Mr Andrius Geguzinskas will be carrying out project-based programmes in marketing and accreditations respectively.

KTP aims to help students and recent graduates improve their commercial skills and provide companies with enthusiastic and talented young peoplei with the knowledge needed to work on specific projects.

Debbie Mellor, acting managing director at Keighley Laboratories Ltd, said: “We welcome the opportunity to tap into available resources

Chadwick Lawrence, 13 Railway Street, Huddersfield, HD1 1JS Huddersfield | Wakefield | Halifax | Dewsbury | Leeds: Morley | Leeds: Pudsey

A GRADUATE from Huddersfield University is helping a West Yorkshire company under a programme to link talented young people with industry.

Alan Henry (right) has joined metallurgical laborato r i e s s e r v i c e Ke i g h l ey Laboratories Ltd for a minimum of 21 months under the Knowledge Transfer Partnership programme.

He will assist Leonard Stott, commercial manager for technical services.

Mr Henry will be joined at the company by two undergraduates from Bradford University on summer place-

www.chadwicklawrence.co.uk

Published by Trinity Mirror Huddersfield Ltd, PO Box A26, Queen Street South, Huddersfield HD1 2TD. Printed by Trinity Mirror Printing Oldham Ltd, Hollinwood Avenue, Oldham. OL9 8EP. Registered as a newspaper at the Post Office.

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