Seventh edition of Inspire business magazine

PROPERTY POLICY Top tips from Wrest Park Page 8

SECURITY ADVICE Are burglaries inevitable?

Page 15

1 TAX PLANNING It’s time for action Page 13

ISSUE SEVEN • SPRING 2015

IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO INSPIRE YOUR BUSINESS

MAIN FEATURE

Kerry Cash Kerry was born to be in business – but never rests on her laurels. Pages 18-19

Inspiring offers

How we can help boost your business. Page 21

It’s time to get voting

Inspire backs new businesses in food and drink awards. Page 12

Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

Issue One

welcome

Publisher: Community Communications, 12 Alexandra Avenue, Luton Beds, LU3 1HG

Editor: David Tooley inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk

Advertising:

welcome BORN TO BE IN BUSINESS

ONE OF THE COMMON THEMES RUNNING THROUGH THE SUCCESSFUL LOCAL BUSINESSES THAT I HAVE HAD THE PRIVILEGE TO WRITE ABOUT IN INSPIRE IS A RELENTLESS FOCUS ON CUSTOMERS.

Mostaque Koyes mostaque@communitycommunications.co.uk

Design: Heather Ellis heather@communitycommunications.co.uk

Printed by: Bartham Group www.barthamgroup.com

Disclaimer Any views expressed in Inspire Business Magazine are those of the individual authors and not necessarily those of the publisher.

No part of the magazine should be copied or distributed without the prior consent of the publisher and remains the property of the publisher.

For copies of the magazine for your reception or to receive a top-up supply, email inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @INSPIREBIZMAG

Kerry Cash, the subject of this edition’s centre page feature, is one of those people who I would say was born to be running her own business and has learned some early lessons.

But there’s no resting on her laurels at 5th Avenue hair and beauty salon in Bedford. She’s recently invested in a shopfront revamp, has taken on apprentices from Bedford College and says she has an excellent team who are looking to provide the best possible service for clients. Kerry even says she has customers who have stayed with her since the early days. That’s a valuable testimonial.

Here at Inspire, we are constantly looking for ways to add value to what we offer.

That’s why we are now a part of the Big Local App. Being online is increasingly important for all businesses and you can follow us on Twitter @inspirebizmag where we are closing in on 1,500 followers. Added to that, we have broken through the 3,000 reads mark for Inspire on issuu.com/inspirebizmag – adding value to what we offer our readers and advertisers.

Here, at Inspire we appreciate all the people who make it possible. Bartham printers, publisher Mostaque Koyes, designer Heather Ellis, our fabulous readers and growing band of advertisers, the receptionists who take copies in business centres and hotels and our distributors.

All vital cogs who make it possible for Inspire’s wheel to turn.

In this issue 4

Good mental health (p4) Raising a glass to cider (p5) Small business recruitment (p6) 12

3

Thank you for reading the magazine and being a part of #TeamInspire.

Follow us on Twitter @inspirebizmag or email me inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk Thousands of people around the world are also looking at all the editions of the magazine online at issuu.com/inspirebizmag

we are listening

Profit extraction (p11) Food and drink awards (p12) News round-up (p14, 34 and 35)

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We want to hear from you: perhaps your expertise would be of help to others, or our advertising opportunities are perfect for you or you simply want to give us some feedback.

inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk We’re listening.

Issue Seven

4

mental health

Talk For Change on mental health A NEW TALKING THERAPY PROJECT IN MILTON KEYNES ESTIMATES THAT MORE THAN 1.2MILLION WORKING DAYS ARE LOST IN THE CITY EVERY YEAR THROUGH ABSENTEEISM AND PRESENTEEISM

Talk For Change, a new talking therapy project from the NHS and Mind in Milton Keynes, estimates that mental health issues are costing local companies more than 1.2 million working days per year.

482,000 days are estimated to be lost through employee absence and 725,000 days are lost through ‘presenteeism’, being unable to function properly in the workplace.

‘Talk For Change’ is a new self-referral project that can help if performance might be suffering due to issues such as anxiety, stress, panic or depression.

Jon Olsen and Caroline Holman, are the Talk For Change MK Programme Managers.

Caroline says: “Reduced productivity in the workplace due to mental-health issues is an enormous problem for a growing economy such as Milton Keynes, and with almost 6 in 10 people in our community currently suffering, it is a problem employers need to address.

Stigma “We help businesses with mental-health workshops which can be delivered either in-house within the service or within the workplace; and we offer face to face talking therapies to overcome issues.”

Research shows that there remains a stigma around mental health issues – partly because the physical symptoms are not always as apparent as other illnesses. Talk For Change can help people in Milton Keynes who have previously ‘suffered in silence’.

Jon Olsen explains: “There are new solutions available. We have a selfreferral website where anyone registered with a Milton Keynes GP, can answer a few questions about how they are feeling and get a call back within 48 working hours. They don’t even need to visit their GP.”

Issues The Talk For Change team’s experience shows that mental health issues can hit across any sector of Milton Keynes business – whether it be a multi-national organisation, professional services, or within the thriving entrepreneurial community.

Jon Olsen says: “The pressure of life – home, as well as work – can lead to a change in our mood, a loss of appetite or an increase in negative thoughts. We all know someone experiencing these emotions - and the best advice is to seek help. Talk For Change is here to help you, your employees and colleagues get the right talking therapy support.”

For more information visit www.talkforchangemk.org.uk to register for help. Follow on Twitter at: @TalkForChangeMK

Spring 2015

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

feature

5

Cider firm raises a glass to Velocity BUSINESS SUPPORT SCHEME RAISES A GLASS TO CIDER MAKER. INSPIRE INVESTIGATES

When you think of Milton Keynes you may think of concrete cows, roundabouts and a shopping centre, but it’s unlikely that cider is at the forefront of your mind.

All that could now be about to change, following the emergence of an awardwinning drinks firm on the banks of the Grand Union canal in Old Wolverton, which has received national acclaim for the quality of its products.

Hobby Virtual Orchard, a cidery and distillery. was launched by owner Laurence Conisbee in 2009, when he started making cider as a hobby, using apples from his own garden.

He set out with the intention of making 300 litres but soon found himself with three times that amount, selling it at local beer festivals.

In May 2011 he was asked to supply a major festival in Reading and was crowned Champion Cider of Great Britain.

The following year, Laurence left his job in IT to go full-time with Virtual Orchard, giving him the catalyst he needed to take the business to the next level.

Supply Production was scaled up and a regular supply of apples was sourced from an orchard in Nether Heyford, Northamptonshire. The range of products expanded, with apple brandy and apple juice both introduced to an appreciative public.

Laurence said: “At this point I was acutely aware of the need to grow and the easiest way to do this was to get my own still.

“I applied for a grant to help with this through Velocity and I was amazed at how easy and efficient the whole process was.

Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

Within a few weeks the still had arrived and we were able to get products to market in time for Christmas.

“I can’t thank Velocity enough for their help and support. I’ve named the still ‘Velocity’ to show my gratitude!’

With the still now in place, Virtual Orchard has the capacity to produce even more drinks and experiments are now taking place which could see milk vodka, smoked vodka and whiskey added to the range.

Velocity Business Support and its qualified and experienced Business Advisers are available to help businesses in a number of ways, through one-to-one support, grants and free business workshops.

Velocity is the business support service of the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership (SEMLEP). To find out more about how Velocity could help you, call 0300 01234 35, or visit www.VelocityBusinessSupport.com

Issue Seven

6

skills

Don’t hire

in haste Chris Davies MD of Sandler Training® for this region shares the results of Sandler Training’s recent market research on SME recruitment practices which shows a quarter of them admit to hiring after only one interview.

As a reader of this magazine, you are probably only too well aware of the skills shortage significantly impacting small business recruitment in this region.

Working with a great number of SMEs across a variety of industries and professions, Sandler Training (UK) recently commissioned research to gain an insight into the impact of ‘bad hires’ in small businesses.

Our survey of 1,000 small business owners showed that 40% have exited over three employees over the last five years, and 14% had exited over six. So recruitment is a big factor in whether a business can achieve its financial goals. In the case of significant hires such as field sales resource, getting it wrong costs a business a six-figure sum taking into account the much forgotten lost productivity and opportunity costs.

When asked what caused the bad hires, small businesses overwhelming believe it is down to a poor quality of applications: • Over half (51%) citing weak applicant or application as the main reason • Poor judgment (27%) comes second • Rushing the recruitment process (11%) is the third key area.

For small businesses the impact of a bad hire can have a huge impact on the bottom line. Owners believe each bad hire costs

Spring 2015

their business £13,799, factoring in costs for wages, recruitment and wasted time. This rises to £17,900 in London.

Despite the recognised impact of bad hires, only 28% of small business owners said that they conducted three of more applicant interviews before offering a job. One in four small businesses (25%) admit they hire after only one interview, whilst the majority (47%) interview applicants twice before offering a role.

Effect Shaun Thomson, CEO of Sandler Training (UK) comments: “With unemployment at a 25-year low, it’s not surprising that the labour market is tightening and small businesses are feeling the effect with a reduction in applications. However this doesn’t have to result in poor hires.

“The cost of investing in a robust interview process is much lower than the cost of a bad hire. By building a recruitment strategy that incorporates assessments, which will give information into candidates attitudes and how they should be questioned in interviews, businesses can ensure they get insight into whether they would be a good fit before an offer is made – avoiding the repercussions of bad hire.”

On a more positive note, the small business owners believe that 74% of their staff are critical to the success of their company, with

the most valuable employees being in the Scotland, where this figure rises to 78%.

The small business owners are also willing to reward valuable workers – when asked how much more they would pay a new recruit if they could guarantee from the outset they would become a valuable member of the team, the small business owners said they would be happy to increase the salary offered by 21%. It didn’t say whether that particular view was shared in Scotland or not!

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

7

FREE Business Support for ambitious businesses in the South East Midlands Giving you the skills to help grow your business

Call us on

0300 01234 35 Or visit www.VelocityBusinessSupport.com

@VelocityGrowth #WhatYouKnow facebook.com/VelocityBusinessSupport linkedin.com/company/velocity-business-support

Funding

Business Advisers

Website

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Helpdesk

Networking Issue Seven

Events

8

commercial property

The centre of your business DAVID TAYLOR OF WREST PARK ENTERPRISE CENTRE LOOKS AT THE PSYCHOLOGY BEHIND YOUR CHOICE OF BUSINESS BASE In the ever changing world of commerce the need to be flexible is paramount. Businesses of all sizes have found that increasingly the solution to the question of premises has been modern, well equipped business centres offering an almost “try before you buy!” alternative to working from home or buying/ leasing a building.

So let’s investigate why...

PSYCHOLOGY Individually, our surroundings and how we interact with others is vital – for example, what are your strengths and weaknesses? Do you need to interact with your clients, colleagues or other people face to face to be fully motivated? Or do you do most business via email & telephone?

Is the drive to & from work useful for focussing on the events of the day?

Are you affected by the view from your window, lighting, noise pollution, security issues or need different spaces to suit your mood or changing work requirements?

For some, the discipline of working remotely, planning your own day is ideal; personally, I was always too tempted by the garden or toaster!

Serviced offices can provide all this plus the cost free benefits of a community feel, access to “colleagues” to bounce ideas off, share suppliers, knowledge, expertise, or even business referrals via networking and social events. They may even have a toaster!

IMAGE Are you looking for a statement building in the city or a tranquil parkland setting. What occasional space do you need - reception, private meeting & training rooms, comfortable coffee lounges, ample parking – Do you need to pay annual rent on that space or just use it on an occasional basis?

Business Centres can provide all of these, normally on a use only basis.

GEOGRAPHY Consider if your business needs to be in town, out of town, close to suppliers or your marketplace? Will geography dictate the quality of potential employees, transport links or services available?

TECHNOLOGY Is access to a readymade broadband, Wi-Fi & telephony service a good value option as opposed to the cost of installation and ownership? Will a rural location have a dedicated high speed broadband connection or is this only available in the city centre?

ACCESSIBILITY How about the hours of business – will you need 24 hour access, create noise or have deliveries at unsociable times that could cause problems with neighbours?

THE COST Compare the savings of a home office with the costs of lease/ purchase or low entry cost of serviced offices. Check if the rent includes service charge, business rates, parking, utilities. What will cost extra (telephony, broadband)? Is the rent charged per SqFt or per person (the latter can be more expensive if your business grows)?

THE FUTURE Consider the short & long term financial commitments of accommodating your business and staff. If you change your mode of operation or staff levels, serviced offices are often flexible enough to eliminate the overall cost and hassle of a move. A longer term lease can tie you to high overheads that your business might find difficult to sustain.

THE SOLUTION? Wrest Park Enterprise Centre provides serviced offices on “easy in easy out” terms, has 24 hour access, manned reception and ample parking, all in a beautiful parkland setting off the A6 in central Bedfordshire.

Add to this meeting rooms, virtual offices, workshops, storage, plus a range of industrial units and larger office suites to lease on the wider enterprise park and our motto of “flexible space to suit your pace...” begins to speak for itself!

For details call David Taylor on 01525 863900 or email info@wrestparkenterprise.co.uk

Spring 2015

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

business continuity

9

Get your free business continuity plan today MARTIN BLOWER OF A-PLAN INSURANCE, EXPLAINS BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLANNING AND THE DIFFERENCE IT CAN MAKE TO YOUR BUSINESS Business continuity planning is the process of identifying the parts of your company that are most vulnerable in order to create a plan to recover them if a business interruption occurs.

Your company’s business continuity plan, in conjunction with business interruption insurance, form your business continuity management (BCM) programme. Businesses with strong BCM programmes are more resilient in the face of emergencies and disasters.

The steps involved in creating, implementing and maintaining a business continuity plan are listed to the right. The process of creating the plan is in itself a beneficial exercise. The resulting plan, if implemented and maintained, can be the difference between recovering from a business interruption and going out of business.

HOW CAN I GET MY FREE PLAN? The document will be a template to help you begin the continuity planning process for your business.

Sample text has been provided for the majority of the sections to serve as a starting point.

You will want to review all of the sample text and customise it to fit the needs of your business.

You will likely find that you need to communicate with other departments or internal resources to gather the materials necessary to complete some sections of the plan.

Contact Martin Blower at A-Plan Insurance on: martin.blower@aplan.co.uk to receive your free copy and help you stay in business.

WHY IS CONTINUITY PLANNING IMPORTANT? Did you know that 1 out of every 4 businesses impacted by a disaster never reopens its doors? And in the past year, nearly 1 in 5 companies has reported experiencing a business interruption. A business interruption can be as benign as a short power cut or as severe as a hurricane. Companies that are prepared to face all types of incidents—small or large—are more likely to stay in business.

Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

Issue Seven

10

computing

Windows Server

2003 alert!

Extended support for Windows Server 2003 will end on July 14, 2015 – Annette White of PC Help Centre in Dunstable gives Inspire the low down.

Microsoft Server 2003 Extended Support will be terminating on July 14 2015 – it will no longer be supported by Microsoft.

This means any business still using this platform will seriously need to look at their migration plans and updates before it is too late.

Many Microsoft customers are still using Windows Server 2003 despite it having been relaced several times over the years. Since 2003 there has been Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2012, and Windows Server 2012 R2.

Bill Watts - Renault Trucks UK Ltd IT Manager

Find us at:

Small Business looking for Computer Support?

‘Try a local Computer Surgeon®’ Try a FREE 5 mins online diagnosis on any Server / Desktop / Laptop (T&C’s apply) CALL 01582 690692

Other Services:

• Repairs & Upgrades • Networking • Data Recovery Experts • Virus Removal • Onsite Visits

Visit our store at: 140 High Street South, Dunstable, Beds, LU6 3HR

Tel: 01582 672606 • sales@pchelpcentre.com Visit our website at: www.pchelpcentre.com

Spring 2015

But like many products over the years, Microsoft takes a view that it has a limited life. They did the same with Windows XP extended support, ending it in April 2014.

Anyone still using Windows XP is using a product that is not supported with updates and patches to security issues. After July 14 the same scenario faces customers of Windows Server 2003.

As an IT professional, my advice is that any customers using that product should act seriously and introduce a migration plan.

There are many IT professionals locally – including of course the team at PC Help Centre – who can help businesses take action. But don’t leave it too late as there is sure to be a last minute spring and summer rush.

Windows XP customers will remember the challenges involved.

However, unlike migration from XP, Microsoft says Windows Server 2012 R2 offers relatively good application compatibility with Windows Server 2003.

Windows Server 2012 R2 offers improvements compared with Windows Server 2003, including integrated virtualization, better security, extensive scalability, new operational roles, script execution capabilities, and more.

The dangers of staying on Windows Server 2003 beyond the termination of extended support mean you will no longer be covered for patches, fixes or receive Microsoft support. There is also the possibility of placing themselves in a regulatory noncompliance situation.

Needless to say, waiting until the last minute to perform your Windows 2003 Server migration is a very risky proposition!

It makes sense to move to the newer Windows Server because the security improvements are worth adopting if just to help defend against potential industrial espionage.

Many customers may feel they are being forced into taking action but the reality is that it is happening and action should be taken quickly.

If you would like to book a consultation with pchelpcentre, please email: Annette.white@pchelpcentre.com or call on: 01582 672606 to discuss with one of our team.

PC Help Centre Limited, Shop 4 Brittany Court, High Street South, Dunstable. Bedfordshire. LU6 3HR Website: www.pchelpcentre.com

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

finance 11

Business Profit Extraction

– The Solution TONY BYRNE, ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S MOST HIGHLY QUALIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS OUTLINES THE WEALTH AND TAX MANAGEMENT’S PROFIT EXTRACTION PLAN Is your business having a good year? Are you forecasting an increase in profits?

Tony Byrne, Chartered and Certified Financial Planner author of Wealth Magic, Financial Planning Director, Wealth And Tax Management

If yes now could be the ideal time to consider how you are going to extract those profits without losing too much in the way of taxes and our Profit Extraction Plan could be just the solution to help.

Typically most Directors will take their income in the form of dividends which means you save having to pay employer and employee National Insurance.

Director age 55 ÂŁ100,000 profits No other income

After factoring Corporation Tax, Employers and Employee National Insurance and Income Tax using the traditional methods of taking profits the effective tax rates are as follows: TAKING PROFITS VIA

Scope There is significant scope to withdraw and invest up to ÂŁ270,000 of profits via the Profit Extraction Plan over the course of this year however the plan must be started before 5th April 2015.

The scope will reduce slightly after the end of the tax year so you should not act now.

We are currently offering a FREE personalised Profit Extraction illustration to Directors who contact us by 20th March 2015.

This will show you the tax savings that can be made and what you will need to do next to put this into action.

If you would prefer to speak with us first please contact us on 01908 523740.

Payout

However the company is still paying Corporation Tax on profits before you take them as dividends and if you are a higher rate Income Tax payer you will also be paying further Income Tax on your dividend pay-out! This can lead many Directors to retain profits in the business, perhaps sitting in low interest cash accounts.

Our Profit Extraction Plan allows you to withdraw profits out of the business and results in you paying less tax than if you were to take profits as dividends or salary.

It makes best use of the new government pension rules and clever financial planning methods to ensure you save significant amounts of tax.

This means more money for your retirement provision or if you are over 55 you could even have access to the cash straight away after 6th April 2015 to spend as you wish.

We would hope your Accountant has already discussed with you the different ways of extracting profits out of your business.

To see the potential benefits of the Profit Extraction Plan let’s look at an example:

• • •

In this example the Profit Extraction Plan increases the money in your pocket by up to ÂŁ28,000!

EFFECTIVE TAX RATE

MONEY IN YOUR POCKET

Salary

47%

ÂŁ53,000

Dividends

35%

ÂŁ65,000

Profit Extraction Plan

19%

ÂŁ81,000

Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

-AXIMISE 4HE 0ROFITS )N 9OUR 0OCKET /UR NEW 0ROFIT %XTRACTION 0LAN IS A HIGHLY TAX EFFICIENT WAY TO TAKE PROFITS OUT OF YOUR BUSINESS 4O FIND OUT THE TAX SAVINGS THAT CAN BE ACHIEVED WE ARE CURRENTLY OFFERING A &2%% PERSONALISED ILLUSTRATION TO $IRECTORS THAT CONTACT US BY THE TH -ARCH 4HIS OFFER IS AVAILABLE TO $IRECTORS WITH COMPANY PROFITS OF | PLUS Ă˜CT NOW TO ENSURE SIGNIFICANT ALLOWANCES ARE NOT LOST BEFORE THE TAX YEAR END

4EL %MAIL WEALTH!WEALTHANDTAX CO UK 7EB WWW WEALTHANDTAX CO UK SEMINARS

Issue Seven

12

awards

Votes for food and drink INSPIRE BUSINESS MAGAZINE IS SPONSORING THE BEST NEWCOMER CATEGORY IN A NEW SET OF FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS look forward to meeting the winning businesses.”

Damian Cummins, The sponsors, including Inspire editor David Tooley at the launch of the Bedfordshire Food & Drink Awards director of the Buckinghamshire Food & The winners will be decided solely by votes Drink Awards, said: “Our vision is to highlight from members of the public that have been the very best of Buckinghamshire’s quality food lodged on the awards websites (see the advert and drink sector below for details).

Voting is underway in food and drink awards launched across Inspire’s distribution area.

Inspire business magazine is sponsoring the Best Newcomer category in the awards which aim to promote quality independent outlets.

David Tooley, Inspire’s editor, attended all three county launch events and said: “The Food and Drink sector supports many hundreds of jobs and creates enormous wealth for the local as well as national economy.

“But the competition is enormous from the big national players and it is a brave decision for anyone to try to break into the market.

“Inspire wants to support those people who have decided to take the plunge.

“A large number of businesses have already entered the Best Newcomer category and we

Galvanising “From pubs to brewers, from coffee shops to butchers, we are galvanising a mass movement of the most important people, the customers, who know the true meaning of quality when they taste it, drink it and are served it so well.”

The nominated venues and businesses have been sent free marketing toolkits to help them garner the crucial votes they will need for ultimate victory.

Karen McGeeney, communications director for the awards, said: “We’re already busy campaigning across Facebook and Twitter as well as traditional media generating excitement and encouraging nominations and votes.

Look for Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Food and Drink Awards on Facebook for the latest updates.

“We’re so excited about championing the best of the best and promoting quality in Buckinghamshire.”

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Spring 2015

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

tax 13

Year-end

tax planning IT’S TIME FOR ACTION! WRITES SUZANNE SPICER OF SPICER & CO KEEP GOOD RECORDS

Have you ever experienced a glorious summer holiday, only to return to the stresses of last minute school uniform shopping with the kids? It’s not pleasant, is it?

But, what does that have to do with you, your business and taxation? Well, think of the looming tax year-end (5 April) as your ‘back to school’ moment.

Plan for it well and you’ll avoid those last minute hassles while making the most of some great opportunities.

Suzanne at Spicer & Co says: “This year we have the added complication of the forthcoming general election, but that doesn’t mean we should sit back and do nothing.

“We have to plan for the future, based on what we know. That means making the best possible use of the tax allowances, exemptions and planning measures that are available right now.”

Talking of paperwork, if you take only one piece of advice from this article, make it this – keep your paperwork in good order! Not only will this make the tax year-end much easier, but it will also be useful when talking with your accountant about strategies for the coming year, ultimately improving business performance.

There are many more things you can do to plan ahead for the tax year-end. To chat with Suzanne and her team about these and other opportunities, visit Spicer & Co in their brand new office at 16 West Street, Dunstable.

Here’s what Spicer & Co recommend:

chartered accountants

PERSONAL ALLOWANCES The basic personal allowance for 2014/15 is £10,000. Use it or lose it! You could pay yourself (or anyone who hasn’t used their allowance) a dividend or a bonus. Another option is to transfer income-producing assets (e.g. investments) to a spouse/ civil partner with little or no income.

PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS Contributions made to registered pension schemes are an excellent investment, benefiting from full tax relief (up to 100% of your annual earnings, subject to an annual allowance of £40,000). This allowance can be carried forward for up to three years, so do consider topping up your contributions.

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INDIVIDUAL SAVINGS ACCOUNTS (ISAS) For 2014/15, you can invest up to £15,000 tax free into a cash ISA, a stocks and shares ISA or a combination of the two. If you’ve not yet used your allowance but have cash sitting elsewhere, move it now!

CAPITAL GAINS PLANNING If you’ve made any capital gains over the past tax year, anything up to £11,000 will be free of capital gains tax. Check this when you complete your paperwork.

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Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

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14

finance in the news hr

In the news Future

Top Rated secured

Hemel Hempstead’s Planet Ice leisure venue reopened to the public in February following a major refurbishment of the town’s ice rink.

The popular ice rink’s reopening is an exciting part of the new Jarman Square leisure development and follows the recent launches of well-known restaurants Chiquito, Frankie & Benny’s, Coast to Coast and Nando’s.

Sandwich retailer Subway has also opened its doors at Jarman Square. Other leisure and food operators are also due to start serving customers before the end of March.

Investment The future of Planet Ice was secured by investment from Dacorum Borough Council and the Tesco Pension Fund.

Jenny Buck, Head of Property Investment at Tesco Pension Fund said: “The opening of Planet Ice is the culmination of a huge amount of work that has gone into regenerating this leisure facility which has now been rebranded Jarman Square.

Spring 2015

Milton Keynes Chartered Financial Planner Tony Byrne will feature in the Sunday Telegraph top rated UK professionals guide.

“We are delighted to have created a family leisure facility including restaurants, a gym, cinema and ice-rink for the community to enjoy which we anticipate will also attract new visitors from across Hertfordshire.

Partnership “The project has been a great partnership between the Tesco Pension Fund, Dacorum Borough Council, the occupiers and also our project manager Ediston Real Estate. The council played a significant role in ensuring the ice rink facility could be maintained for the community, and Ediston has delivered a challenging project on time and in budget notwithstanding some challenging physical issues.”

Cllr Andrew Williams, Leader, Dacorum Borough Council, said: “I am delighted that, through our work with Tesco Pension Fund, we have managed to keep an excellent facility for ice skating in Hertfordshire. This is another example of our commitment to improving the area and making Hemel Hempstead an even better place to live, work, and visit.”

As part of the renaming to Jarman Square a new website presence - www.jarmansquare. co.uk - has been launched.

Due to be published on March 29 the first Top Rated guide to UK professionals is an invaluable resource if you need legal, financial, accounting or mortgage advice.

Milton Keynes’s own Tony Byrne from Wealth and Tax Management qualified for inclusion in the Top Rated Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) category.

Tony Byrne said: “A supplement that helps people to find the best professionals is long overdue so I’m thrilled that the Sunday Telegraph are putting together such a comprehensive guide. University and school league tables are pored over by parents but there is nothing similar to assist people in finding where to go for quality financial and legal advice. Being recognised as Top Rated in my profession and featured in this inaugural guide is a real buzz.”

Tony from Wealth and Tax Management specialises in independent financial advice. This means that Tony is not tied to any product or provider.

Tony achieved Top Rated status thanks to support from existing clients. In the past 12 months a number of clients have positively reviewed Tony on Vouchedfor.co.uk, the leading rating and review site for professionals.

Reviews on the site are all independently verified meaning that people looking for a local professional can feel confident that they’re contacting a trusted individual.

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

security 15

It will never happen to me.

Or so thought local business owner Every day as business owners/managers we walk into work and probably feels a little like ground hog day, but imagine if the peace was broken and you arrived at work to discover you had been broken into. What could that mean for your business? value, apart from a company cheque book which they were able to cancel and the culprit was actually caught attempting to cash a cheque!

Ian said of his experience, “We always were the people who thought it would never happen to us. Security is always a need but never a must and we thought we had it covered!

In 2013 the Home office reported that around 45% of businesses premises are hit by crime each year with 12% of premises experiencing burglary.

It is estimated that only around 66% of commercial burglary is reported. Burglars are not just after cash, nowadays they are Survey smarter and looking for high value items, “Since the break in we had a free security many people have high value laptops/ survey by Dyno Locks and Alarms which desktops sitting around, cheque books, flagged up several areas of concern we customer records such as bank details and probably wouldn’t have even considered. many businesses even had their servers We had a new safe professionally installed stolen – a key piece of the business gone by guys and a new alarm system that is overnight, sometimes taking with it all their Jon Spellen of Dyno Locks and Alarms police monitored – so now we wouldn’t customer or accounts records. Would your be first on the scene. We were lucky, my business survive? advice to you would be don’t let security be an afterthought our Ian Abrahams from JNB was amongst the people who thought it experience didn’t cost the business greatly, but it could have been so would never happen until one night he received a call from their alarm much worse.” company.

Ian had taken some precautions he had installed a safe himself and opted to have an alarm fitted, but had chosen a key holder response (which means that you are called when the alarm goes off). Arriving at the scene Ian described as a little unnerving the door had been clearly forced, entering the premises.

He said “It can be quite intimidating entering the building unsure if the burglar is still inside, luckily they had gone by the time I arrived.”

Upon inspection Ian found the burglars had taken the safe off the wall and made off with its contents – luckily the contents were of little

Advice Jon from DYNO Locks and Alarms said “Ian’s story is not uncommon and with most business premises unmanned overnight makes them an easier target. We offer free surveys to all businesses which will give you FREE impartial advice to ensure you are protected. We can then if you require install and manage your requirements from installing safes to a new alarm or CCTV to protect your premises” To book your FREE no obligation security survey call Luke Now on 01582 519910 and quote ‘Inspire’

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Issue Seven

16

law

Page kindly sponsored by

Telephone: 01582 608601

Directors’ responsibilities JOHN WRIGHT OF OF STOTEN GILLAM CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS AND CHARTERED TAX ADVISERS, WARNS THAT BECOMING A DIRECTOR CARRIES WITH IT POTENTIALLY ONEROUS DUTIES Whether you are appointed to the board of the company you work for or you are involved in establishing a new business and take on the role of director, you will feel a sense of achievement.

However, the office of director brings both rewards and responsibilities upon an individual and becoming a director carries with it potentially onerous duties. It is important to make sure that you know what these are.

For the director of a private company, the Companies Act 2006 (the Act) sets out a statement of your general duties.

This statement codifies existing ‘common law’ rules and principles relating to the obligations of company directors that have developed over time, with the aim of ensuring that the law is consistent and accessible.

In general terms, the legislation requires that directors act in the interests of their company and not in the interests of any other parties. Even sole director/shareholder companies must consider the implications by not putting their own interests above those of the company.

The Act outlines seven statutory directors’ duties, which are as follows:

1. DUTY TO ACT WITHIN YOUR POWERS As a company director, you must act only in accordance with the company’s constitution, and must exercise your powers for the purposes for which they were conferred.

2. DUTY TO PROMOTE THE SUCCESS OF THE COMPANY You must act in such a way that you feel would be most likely to promote the success of the company, for the benefit of its members as a whole.

However, you must also consider a number of other factors, including: • the likely long-term consequences of any decision • the interests of company employees • fostering the company’s business relationships with suppliers, customers and others • the impact of operations on the community and environment • maintaining a reputation for high standards of business conduct • the need to act fairly as between members of the company.

3. DUTY TO EXERCISE INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT You have an obligation to exercise independent judgment.

4. DUTY TO EXERCISE REASONABLE CARE, SKILL AND DILIGENCE You must exercise reasonable care, skill and diligence using your own general knowledge, skill and experience, together with the care, skill and diligence which may reasonably be expected of a person who is carrying out the functions of a director.

Spring 2015

5. DUTY TO AVOID CONFLICTS OF INTEREST This dictates that, as a director, you must avoid a situation in which you have, or may have, a direct or indirect interest which conflicts, or could conflict, with the interests of the company.

6. DUTY NOT TO ACCEPT BENEFITS FROM THIRD PARTIES This duty states that you must not accept any benefit from a third party (whether monetary or otherwise) which has been conferred because of the fact that you are a director, or as a consequence of taking, or not taking, a particular action as a director.

7. DUTY TO DECLARE INTEREST IN A PROPOSED TRANSACTION OR ARRANGEMENT Any company director who has either a direct or an indirect interest in a proposed transaction or arrangement with the company must declare the ‘nature and extent’ of that interest to any other directors, before the company enters into the transaction or arrangement.

You will see that the position of director should not be accepted lightly. The law is designed to penalise those who act irresponsibly or incompetently, but a director who acts honestly and conscientiously should have nothing to fear.

We at Stoten Gillam can provide the professional advice you need to ensure you are in the latter category. We will be pleased to discuss any queries you might have and can be contacted on 01582 608601 or via john.wright@stotengillam.co.uk

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

marketing 17

AIDA will aid you

saving money on print ANNA BIELECKA, MARKETING MANAGER OF SURE2DOOR LTD, TELLS INSPIRE WHY GRABBING ATTENTION IS KEY TO PROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS There’s nothing more frustrating than having your printed promotional materials fail to actually grab anyone’s attention, thus not promoting your business at all.

Wasting money on print by not seeing any return is obviously not the way to success. So what to do, to make your print materials actually work?

Well, of course I’d say make sure that they are visually appealing, but more important is that the copy is well written and to the point.

Here’s a little tip for you – the AIDA formula will help you write quality content for your print materials. AIDA stands for:

A - ATTENTION Grab the reader’s attention. You only have a few seconds to do this.

The heading should be intriguing and fun. It can also be a question.

Imagine a party scene; a host wanting to make a toast grabs a knife and taps it against a glass to get the guests’ attention. The heading is just like the knife; it should make people turn their heads towards you, intrigued about what will happen next. For example:

A - ACTION The final, and very important stage: calling for action. At the end of your advert, leaflet or other marketing content, you need to tell people what you want them to do – buy your product, follow you on Twitter, log on to your online shop, call your office etc. The call for action should be very precise, so people know exactly what to do and are not left trying to figure out for themselves whether they need to visit your shop or if can they find you online.

‘Visit www.colossal-print.co.uk for more information’ Using the AIDA formula will help you to create appealing content for your printed materials, to ensure they attract new clients. Whether you’re creating a leaflet, brochure or even a simple business card, you have to remember that whatever you put on paper needs to grab potential clients’ attention so that your investment does not go to waste.

‘We hit a million’ ‘How effective is your campaign?’

Instead of ‘Our turnover this year is £…’ ‘Here are the results of your campaign.’

I - INTEREST Once you have the reader’s attention you need to act fast.

Present your offer or services in an interesting way. Use simple language, as if you were writing a message to a friend.

Write about what is important to your clients, not to you. You might have had a whole revamp of your car-servicing garage and could talk for hours on end about how much you invested and the high tech tools you have, but the clients are more interested in your service, whether it’s reliable, quick and affordable. Simply make the reader interested in what you have to offer.

D - DESIRE This is the crucial part, as by this point the reader should already be thinking about buying your product or service. In fact, they should desire it. The final stage, the actual purchase, is just a formality. Talk about benefits, emotions; what will your product or service do for your client? How will it improve their life? How will they feel, having your product?

Many companies undervalue this aspect of copywriting, talking only about the characteristics of their products, with no mention of the benefits. For example, when you buy a new laptop battery, you do not necessarily need to know its capacity, you just want to know how long it will last, right?

Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

BUSINESS IS

BOOMING! Make sure you’re part of it.

Advertise with Inspire.

inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk

Issue Seven

18

Inspiration

Always moving forward HAIR AND BEAUTY ENTREPRENEUR KERRY CASH KNEW FROM A YOUNG AGE SHE WASN’T CUT OUT FOR A 9 TO 5 JOB. INSPIRE FINDS OUT WHAT MAKES HER TICK

Entrepreneur Kerry Cash knew from a very young age that she wasn’t cut out for a nine to five office job.

Possessing a huge amount of confidence as a teenager and young woman, she was instantly hooked by the hair and beauty industry and its ability to make people look great and feel fantastic about themselves.

“At the age of 20 I thought I knew everything about everything,” said Kerry, salon director at 5th Avenue Hair & Beauty Spa, in Bedford.

“I started up on my own and just expected that customers would come in through the front door. How wrong could I be!

“My first idea of marketing was to handwrite a message on a flip chart. I was using a room in a salon and the owner soon told me off! It was a quick lesson.”

Kerry had taken her first steps into earning a living as a 16 year-old Sandy Upper School pupil on work experience at Henlow Grange Health Farm (now Champneys, Henlow). She impressed and was soon working as a YTS (government scheme) trainee, earning the princely sum of £29.50-a-week.

She took training courses, including sports therapy, in her own time, to build her own skills.

Kerry with her very first boss, Dorothy Purdew, co-owner of the Champneys group, in Las Vegas.

Spring 2015

A staff training day at Macintyre Hudson

The commitment to her own professional skills is something she has continued and developed with her team.

Back in the day, with an armful of qualifications, she launched into business.

But independent-minded Kerry also lacked a seasoned business person’s knowledge of finance and investment in products.

A training academy at 5th Avenue where the team welcomed level 3 students from Bedford College

“If you are telling customers about quality, you need the products and services to back up what you are saying,” said Kerry. “It might seem obvious now but I was buying on cost, not branding. It was a mistake I learned from really quickly.

“When I handed my notice in I was wondering why I wasn’t being promoted but of course at

A Redken training symposium was attended by 10,000 hair related guests, including Kerry and team members

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

Inspiration

19

Kerry asked Boris Johnson where he had his hair done when the politician visited Bedford

that stage I knew very little about customer care, dealing with complaints and building a team.”

Her first first hairdressing salon experience, in Potton, Bedfordshire, lasted 18 months before she decided to take a different path, setting up at her parents’ house. It was a dream she wasn’t going to let go of.

“I fell in love with the industry at Henlow and at that time I thought it was a way of getting to work on cruise ships and hotels – a way of seeing the world!” she said.

The mistakes Kerry learned from in Potton set her in good stead for the future.

Relationships “You’ve so got to get the marketing correct; presentation is key, as is building relationships with people and learning how to deal properly with complaints.”

At her parents’ place Kerry developed some of the marketing and relationship building skills which would stand her in good stead. Holding pamper parties and seminars she met and kept customers who are still supporting her and her team to this day.

At the age of 23, Kerry was ready to get her own salon again, this time choosing 5th Avenue, in Bedford town centre.

“I didn’t have any kind of fear factor,” said Kerry, who took over the salon’s keys in 1997.

She struggled for a while because of a lack of staff and a difficulty in recruiting.

“That was another big lesson for me. As a business you have to have a team behind you who support you as you support the team members.”

Building a business is also about moving forward and changing, developing. Kerry has recently invested in a new shopfront and in sending team members on courses to build up

their skills, including industry leading Redken Certified Colourist and advanced electrolysis treatments.

Anyone who has met Kerry knows she is a shrewd networker, winning the title Bedfordshire Business Woman of the Year in 2012. In the same year three of her hair teams reached national hairdressing finals. She was president of the award winning not for profit networking group Bedfordshire BusinessWomen.

Purpose “Business networking isn’t just about having a nice breakfast or lunch,” she said. “You have got to go with a purpose, a plan to help build your business but in a way that isn’t brash because it’s all about building relationships with people and not direct selling.”

Kerry is excited for the future of the business, saying “After 17 years I can say I have my dream team, we’re working together well,

understanding each other and coming up with great ideas.

“I have found that giving people responsibilty and being open and honest is the best way of running a team.”

She’s also building links with Bedford College to find and invest in new, young talent in the town, who may, in time, seamlessly join the salon’s team.

And Kerry is also now vice-chairman of Bedford Business Improvement District (BID), which narrowly won a five year mandate to continue its work in 2014.

“The BID is all about businesses in Bedford Town Centre working together for the benefit of the whole borough,” said Kerry. “I’m backing businesses in Bedford in my own time and believe we can all work together in harmony.

“We are working to get everyone onside to support the fantastic busineses we have in the town.”

One of Kerry’s many marketing ideas

5th Avenue Spa is at 9 Howard Street, Bedford Tel : 01234 341377 / 320003 Email : info@5thavenuespa.co.uk www.5thavenuespa.co.uk

Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

Issue Seven

20

networking

Forging closer links EVENT IN DUNSTABLE HEARD DETAILS OF HOW BUSINESSES CAN WORK MORE CLOSELY WITH THEIR LOCAL COUNCIL More than 100 businesses gained information about working more closely with Central Bedfordshire Council at a networking event.

The “Helping businesses to thrive and grow in Central Bedfordshire” event took place at the Incuba Centre, in Dunstable, and was set up for businesses to find out more information about becoming a supplier to the council, as well as influencing spending plans.

It was set up by the council as part of its approach to supporting local businesses and enhancing local supply chains by working in partnership with the authority.

Network There was also the chance for attendees to network with other businesses at the special breakfast event, which met with a very positive response from those taking part.

Councillor Maurice Jones, Executive Member for Corporate Resources, told businesses in attendance about the council’s spending plans in the 2015/16 budget as well as outlining proposals for investment and

regeneration over the next four years.

He said: “While we have a large savings target to meet, we are still planning on significant investment in public services across Central Bedfordshire. That is why a key message for the council, as well as businesses generally, is ‘doing more for less’.

“We are planning to invest more than £315million in public services from April, but that is set against the need to save a further £13.7million, which is why we are looking to work more efficiently, cut overheads and seek better deals with suppliers.”

Committed Councillor Nigel Young, Executive Member for Regeneration, added: “Central Bedfordshire Council is committed to working with and supporting local businesses, and this event was just one of the ways we are doing that.

“I was delighted to see so many businesses in attendance, despite the early start and the cold weather, and I hope that this was the start of a fruitful relationship with some as we look to enhance our links with the local supply chain.”

Advice The packed venue received advice about pitching for business from the council’s procurement team, including simple but effective tips such as making sure tenders are not too complicated and that they are submitted early. Businesses also found out more advice about Central Bedfordshire’s interactive procurement toolkit, which could be rolled out to other councils due to its success.

Richard Cooper, from Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce and Velocity Business Support, gave attendees more information about applying for business grants worth between £1,000 and £50,000.

Spring 2015

And Rob Levene, from Nepro, gave advice about how to become a supplier to organisations such as Central Bedfordshire Council, with tips on things such as making sure you have the correct insurance documents in place.

One of the businesses taking part in the event was Bedfordshire-based Harmony HR Solutions, and a representative said: “It was a really interesting and valuable presentation.

It was extremely useful to find out what Central Bedfordshire Council’s plans were.

The Nepro presentation gave a good summary and explained that the procedures for bidding for the council can be onerous, but they simplified it.”

For more information about working in partnership with the council or support that is on offer to your business call 0300 300 8272, email: business@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk or visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

inspire advertising 21

Inspiring offers FREE SOCIAL MEDIA SUPPORT WITH OUR ADVERTISING OFFER You can get some great offers on business cards, including from Bartham Press the printers of Inspire business magazine!

But we have a great offer for you if you have a business card.

How about you scan a copy of your business card and send it to us at inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk We will then print thousands of copies. Not only that, because we distribute to venues across the MK, Luton, Bedford, Aylesbury, Hitchin and Hemel Hempstead area, your business card will be distributed, too.

We also hand out copies of the magazine at business networking events.

With your business card. Now that’s a great offer.

But wait... there’s more... we’re active on social media, too. Follow us on Twitter @inspirebizmag and see how we promote the magazine and the people and businesses who support us. We call it #TeamInspire We’re also online at http://issuu.com/inspirebizmag where we attract hundreds of readers. For an offer like that, with printing and active promotion, you’d expect the cost to be sky high. Well, how does £40+VAT sound? Good eh? Don’t delay, scan your business card and send it to inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk now. The first to apply, quoting #InspireOffer will get a surprise discount.

Email inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk NOW

!" #$% &" '((%) %) !)'

*& %#!)'

! "

Mostaque Koyes Senior Account Manager

Unit A • Park Avenue Industrial Estate Sundon Park Road • Luton • LU3 3BP T: 01582 573471 Ext: 225 M: 07931 973967 E: mostaque@barthamgroup.com

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Issue Seven

22

entrepreneurs

Letting champions A NEW WEBSITE CAMPAIGNS TO END COSTLY “MONEY FOR OLD ROPE” CHARGES ON PROPERTY LETTING. INSPIRE FINDS OUT An entrepreneurial couple have launched a campaigning website to end the “money for old rope” fees charged for rental properties by letting agents.

Husband-and-wife business team Jag and Bal Hir, of Find Me a Landlord, based at The Courtyard, Shendish Manor, in Hemel Hempstead, want to rid the rental property market of unnecessary fees for what can be, in simple terms; an introduction.

Jag said: “The true winners in this current property market are the letting agents who currently charge both landlords and tenants what can be extortionate fees for what is in fact a relatively simple service.”

Bal added that charges to landlords can comprise of finder’s fees, itinerary checks, and a percentage of the monthly rent once a tenant is secured. Charges to tenants can consist of the admin fees, referencing and credit check fees, deposit handling fees, fees for the transfer of council tax and fuels bills.

She said the list can be endless.

Cash cows She added: “Remarkably, on occasions, some of these fees can be charged to both the landlord and tenants! Tenants are often seen as cash cows by an industry which takes advantage of their human desire to have a roof over their head.”

Jag concluded: “We’re on a mission to break up this cosy but costly arrangement by providing a service which simply and safely meets the needs of both tenants and landlords.”

Find Me a Landlord’s aim is to allow landlords and tenants to engage with each other directly through a portal without charges and fees. The couple’s vision is to revolutionise the property rental market for both landlords and tenants by offering a free service via a secure portal.

Landlords using the site are able to register details online and upload properties for rental within three categories: social, student and private properties. Landlords upload images of their properties, add descriptions,

Spring 2015

attach gas, electric and Energy Performance Certificates (EPC’s).

The site also allows them to add, edit and amend their portfolio as often they like.

Once properties are rented, the landlord can manage this by removing the advert from the website, but still hold the property data via their online files.

Prospective tenants can browse the site and search via the three specific categories without any restrictions. This service incurs no fee and allows the tenant to view as

many properties they wish. Once they find a property of interest they can contact the landlord directly.

Landlords using the site should see a reduction in charges and fees, benefit from simple processes and be able to advertise free of charge.

They can receive direct tenant contact whilst retaining access to the full management of their property portfolio. www.findmealandlord.co.uk On Twitter: @findmealandlord

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

mentoring 23

Mentoring matters A NEW BUSINESS MENTORING GROUP WILL PROVIDE THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET UP AND NETWORK WITH OTHER LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS Enterprise agency, Wenta, has launched a new business mentoring group that is being set up for local business owners – both new and established.

Starting on March 2 and running monthly thereafter, the mentoring group is being formed as a result of a recognised, growing demand for business mentors and networking opportunities in the Inspire area.

The group will provide the opportunity to meet up and network with other local entrepreneurs as well as gain fresh new ideas from Wenta’s experienced mentor, Laurie Bernard.

Laurie has 20 years of experience in helping businesses to start up and grow as well as a wealth of knowledge and skills in business development, operations and marketing strategy.

Success He said, “Research and experience demonstrates that ongoing mentoring improves business success. The Wenta Group Mentoring Programme will help support our clients in growing more profitably and faster. It provides a safe environment where business owners can chat with an experienced mentor as well as other entrepreneurs.”

Those that sign up to the group will also be granted access to Wenta’s award-winning online business advice platform, My Incubator Ventures (worth £25 per month), a live chat service that provides Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

access to business advice from a mentor, Mon-Fri - 9am-5pm, excl. public bank holidays. The platform also features an online business community forum where users can keep in touch and share information. Visit www.wenta.co.uk

How do you a whole Maximise your reach and your budget. Get the attention of a wider audience and let your message be heard loud and clear.

Inspire Business Magazine and Community Magazine.

Sometimes two reads are better than one. www.communitycommunications.co.uk Issue Seven

24

retail

The Lion roars PROPERTY OWNERS AND THE COUNCIL ARE HAILING AN A PLANNING AGREEMENT TO REFURBISH DUNSTABLE’S WHITE LION RETAIL PARK

Some £4.32million of investment is being made into a retail park in Dunstable after Central Bedfordshire Council approved a planning application to refurbish the area.

The council says the move will bring more than into the area, transform the town’s retail market and create more than 110 jobs at Dunstable’s White Lion Retail Park.

After working with park owners Pradera, a revised section 106 agreement has been completed which will see the long unoccupied former Staples and Comet stores subdivided to allow new retailers to move in, including M&S Simply Food and Next.

Unit One on the retail park will be divided up to provide three new units with additional mezzanine floorspace, one of which will be for Next.

The fashion retailer, who was poised to leave the town altogether, will now increase its floorspace by five times, transfer its existing 18-strong workforce from their Quadrant Shopping Centre store and offer 29 additional positions.

M&S Simply Food will move into a refurbished Unit Five, providing approximately 50 jobs while Brantano and Sports Direct are negotiating to

Spring 2015

open new stores in the retail park, which would provide 15 and 16 new roles respectively.

Restrictions will remain on nine of the 13 units, giving the council strong controls on the retail park to prevent any changes taking place, which could adversely impact on Dunstable town centre.

Central Bedfordshire Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Cllr Nigel Young, welcomed the news, saying: “This is a fantastic boost for Dunstable. A refurbished White Lion Retail Park will further enhance the reputation of the town as a great place for shopping, leisure and culture.

“Over the last two years a wide range of regeneration projects and developments has been breathing new life into this traditional market town, improving infrastructure, leisure and social facilities across the board.

“BBC Three Counties Radio is due to relocate from Luton to Grove Park, a stone’s throw from where a new, state-of-the-art skate park will open on 21 March. A £15million refurbishment will improve the Central Bedfordshire College Campus, while the Priory View extra care facility on Church Street will open its doors in the autumn; providing much needed housing for our older residents.

“This planning approval for the White Lion Retail Park represents a continuation of these works and will bring with it visitors, new

businesses, money and jobs, inspiring an increasingly optimistic economic outlook that is helping to restore confidence in Dunstable as a whole.

“Key to this will be transport links, such as the Luton-Dunstable Busway, that will act as an artery between the heart of the town, its high street and the White Lion Retail Park, so the varied retail offerings can complement each other while enhancing and increasing consumer choice and competition.

“We’ve been very mindful of meeting the contemporary needs of shoppers and retailers alike so it is very pleasing when companies like Marks and Spencer and Next share our vision of a more prosperous Dunstable – a town which is rediscovering its former glory.”

Barrie Whight, Pradera Director, said: “We expect the new offering at the park to become increasingly popular with retailers, as the demand from Next and M&S Simply Food demonstrates. We are working closely with the Central Bedfordshire Council and current occupiers of White Lion Retail Park to ensure any changes deliver a variety of benefits in the short and long term, both to retailers and to the wider Dunstable community.

“Pradera is committed to adding value to its retail portfolios and we see a great opportunity to do so in Dunstable, specifically through the refurbishment of a number of units at the park.”

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

local business 25

Don stop believing

Photographs printed with the kind permission of www.amazing-mk.co.uk/Words/Prosper

MK DONS ENTREPRENEUR PETE WINKELMAN WANTS BUSINESSES IN THE CITY TO ARGUE THE CASE FOR GROWTH. INSPIRE WAS THERE TO HEAR HIM MAKE HIS POINT A top entrepreneur has cautioned against Milton Keynes “sitting on its laurels” over seemingly rosy growth and employment figures.

The think tank Centre for Cities has, for the sixth year, put Milton Keynes as the top city in the country for jobs growth, with 24,400 new jobs being created between 2004 and 2013 – a rise of 18.2 per cent.

Entrepreneur Pete Winkelman, the chairman of the MK Dons, speaking at a meeting of the City Breakfast Club at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, warned that everything is not as good as it might be.

In a rallying cry to businesses calling on them not to rest on their laurels and take up the cudgels for continued jobs and growth he fired warning shots against the powers that be.

Mr Winkelman’s plans to turn the MK Bowl into a new high class training ground had been rebuffed but he claimed “nothing has happened in Milton Keynes in the last three years.”

Rising training ground standards had left the Dons’ facilities behind, he said.

But no other land was available to “do a deal” on and he faced the possibility of making a decision to take the football team’s training ground out of the city.

He said there were signs that decision making in the city was becoming less innovative, claiming that plans for a new university in Milton Keynes had been “bottled out” of.

Mr Winkelman’s tone, for businesses to always push for growth, was in some contrast to the Centre for Cities report which says Milton Keynes is second business for start-ups and for the first time appears in the top 10 for the number of patents registered a measure of how innovative a place is.

Milton Keynes Council leader, Pete Marland said: “The city’s success is based on a track record of innovation and a strong entrepreneurial culture while at the same time delivering homes and jobs in a balanced way.

“What also makes Milton Keynes special is our geographical location and accessibility. It’s a city people want to work in and one that is increasingly attracting the high levels of skilled people that companies need to develop and grow.

“This success is very welcome but he council will continue to focus strongly on a successful economy and delivery benefits to all of our citizens.”

Pam Gosal, Head of Economic Development and Inward Investment at the council added: “With enviable statistics such as these, it’s no surprise that Milton Keynes is number one over the last 10 years for job growth.

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“At InvestMK we play a vital role in attracting and retaining companies nationally and internationally, providing crucial information on locations, demographics and support companies into making the decision as to whether to establish or relocate to Milton Keynes.”

The council has its own specialist team, InvestMK, which has been instrumental in bringing thousands of jobs to Milton Keynes.

Issue Seven

26

tech

Data is the

next goldrush VAST AMOUNTS OF INFORMATION CAN BE TAPPED TO INCREASE DEMAND FOR NEW APPS AND SERVICES AND HELP DATA-DRIVEN BUSINESSES TO GROW. INSPIRE INVESTIGATES A data revolution is set to change the way we live, work and play.

Car parking sensors will enable drivers to go straight to empty spaces, electronic chips will mean collections only have to be made when commercial bins are filled.

Those are just a couple of the possible applications of data with clear implications for business.

In Milton Keynes the MK Smart project, which is HEFCE funded, is exploring ways of managing water, energy and transport using socalled Big Data. Much of the data is freely available for businesses to develop their ideas.

Recently, mappers at the Ordnance Survey launched a digital map as open data. It has been hailed as having the potential to generate opportunities for enterprise, drive innovation in the digital economy, increase demand for new apps and services and help data-driven businesses to grow.

The announcement from the government’s mapping service are underpinned by a more liberalised approach to licensing designed to maximise the benefits of the UK’s most valuable data.

Vince Cable, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills said: “Giving access to data opens up job opportunities. Britain is already a world-leader at designing and making innovative products.

But we need to keep investing and supporting our technology businesses to stay ahead.

“Making this data more accessible means more small and medium companies will be able to use Ordnance Survey’s world-leading maps,

Spring 2015

combining geographical data from multiple sources and visualising them at a high level of detail.

“I am sure this will inspire a number of companies to create sophisticated new products.”

OS OpenMap, which will be available at the end of March 2015, has been designed to work with the latest mobile and web platforms and will allow developers to build new products incorporating some of the most sophisticated mapping data in the world.

It will also enhance the wide range of existing apps that use geospatial data.

Targeted at both public sector and commercial users, the map provides an enhanced level of building detail, extended naming of roads and identifies sites such as hospitals and schools - all in a customisable and easy to style format.

World-beating Matthew Hancock, Business Minister at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills said: “Ordnance Survey has world-beating data and its expertise means that the UK has access to the best and most comprehensive mapping data in the world.

“I announced earlier this year that Ordnance Survey would move to a government company to ensure that it could operate in an increasingly agile and flexible manner in the fast changing geospatial market, and today’s announcement goes hand in hand with that change.

“Ordnance Survey data is already being used by a range of businesses and these developments will enable its open data, as well its commercial activity, to continue to support growth and innovation in this country.”

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

disaster recovery

27

Image from http://pixabay.com

Survival of the fittest ALL BUSINESSES SHOULD HAVE PLANS TO SURVIVE MAJOR DISASTERS – INSPIRE BUSINESS MAGAZINE INVESTIGATES

Businesses can test their ability to survive a crisis like a major fire, power cut or a flu epidemic, at Business Continuity Awareness Week.

The week-long event, taking place March 16-21, enables businesses to make use of free resources from the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum (BLLRF).

Many companies in Bedfordshire and Luton at risk from a major emergency do not test their business continuity plans, meaning they have no idea whether they will actually work when needed.

Often, business continuity plans are drawn up, put in a desk drawer and not used until a crisis strikes.

Test Any omissions or mistakes only come to light during an actual emergency – when it might be too late.

Figures from the Business Continuity Institute show that only 39 per cent of companies actually test their business continuity plans and another half admit they will not test them in 2015.

To make it easy for organisations to check whether their plans work, BLLRF will be hosting a free and simple ‘table top” exercise in March.

Tony Green, Luton Borough Council’s emergency planning officer, said: “Any plan is only as good as its last test. If you don’t test your Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

business continuity plan, how do you know it will work when you need it?

“Using our simple desktop scenarios, companies will be able to simulate emergency situations that might affect their business to discover if their current plan works. Does it protect vital assets? Does it enable your business to carry on? Will it save you money if disaster strikes?

“A plan that looks good on paper but doesn’t work in reality is something you don’t want to discover during a real emergency.

Testing your plan now also gets your emergency team actively involved in understanding how your business might respond in a real crisis.”

Crisis The simulated scenarios will include the effect of a fire, flu pandemic or a power cut on a business, and will help those taking part work to out how they can keep their company in business and weather the crisis.

Bedfordshire businesses can also test their plans during Business Continuity Awareness Week by downloading a scenario and a series of ‘injects’.

Advice from emergency experts is also available at the Business Expo on April 16 at Bedford Corn Exchange.

To start planning for emergencies now, visit www.bllrf.org.uk

Issue Seven

28

employment

© Copyright Paul Gillett and licensed for reuse under Creative Commons Licence http://creativecommons.org/licenses/bysa/2.0/on www.geograph.org.uk No changes made

Tech out on top GOVERNMENT’S LOCAL GROWTH DEAL PILES THE POUNDS INTO THE INSPIRE PATCH TO CREATE JOBS Two major technology projects in Bedfordshire have been given a major boost thanks to multimillion pound funding secured by the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership.

The investment forms part of the second round of funding delivered by the Government’s Local Growth Deal, with the windfall being used to help kickstart a total of 10 projects across the South East Midlands.

Ongoing development of plans to introduce ‘driverless pods’ to the streets of MK will continue to be progressed as part of the funding for Cranfield University while Millbrook Proving Ground will also benefit from funding earmarked for a new centre of excellence for innovative automotive research.

Dr Ann Limb OBE DL, Chair of SEMLEP said “I am delighted that SEMLEP has received £46.7m as part of the Local Growth Deal round 2. This will build on the £79.3m received in round 1 and help to deliver yet more jobs and new homes.

“The projects build on the strengths of our area as identified in our Strategic Economic Plan investing in key assets such as Millbrook Proving Ground and Cranfield University and our key sectors including advanced engineering and the cultural and creative sector to deliver highly skilled jobs.”

Spring 2015

The funding for Cranfield University will allow the development of an open innovation facility for the integrated development of autonomous transport vehicles and related complex intelligent systems.

Sir Peter Gregson, Vice-Chancellor of Cranfield University said: “I am delighted that SEMLEP has secured a further package of investment for the South East Midlands through the Local Growth Deal.

“The construction of an open innovation test facility at Cranfield will assist the UK in becoming a global leader in autonomous transport systems. This investment is planned to create 950 jobs by 2020/21 and develop the skills of over 500 professional learners.”

The infrastructure project at Milbrook will create a high quality centre of excellence for innovative automotive research, development and small scale production enabling more companies to be located on site, creating a significant number of highly skilled jobs within the automotive engineering and technology sectors.

Alex Burns, Chief Executive of Millbrook Proving Ground said: “The investment in Millbrook Proving Ground will create a high quality centre of excellence for innovative automotive research and small scale production enabling more companies to be located on site.

“This will create around 60 highly skilled jobs initially within the automotive engineering and technology sectors with significantly more to

follow with the extensive development planned for this site.”

Other projects in Bedfordshire to benefit from the Local Growth Deal funding include major regeneration work in Bedford town centre which would see the building of Batts Ford bridge to ease traffic congestion.

Mayor of Bedford, Dave Hodgson said: “This is a huge boost for our project to deliver a comprehensive decongestion plan for Bedford town centre, featuring the much-needed new road bridge river crossing.

“We knew that the bid we made, via SEMLEP with its support, made a powerful case for the project and the benefits it will deliver for future economic growth in Bedford town centre.

We are delighted that the government has recognised those benefits and is making this major contribution, via SEMLEP, to our efforts to bring the project forward.”

Plans to create an Advanced Electrical Design and Electronics Centre at Bedford College have been boosted by the windfall while funding has been earmarked for the Marston Vale Innovation Park.

Significant funding has been made available for work to improve links between the M1 and the A6 at Sundon Park Road.

As part of the wider Local Growth Deal funding, up to 5,000 new jobs will be created and 1,000 new homes built thanks to a £46.7million investment secured by the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership.

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

CRIME crime

29

FIGHTERS A BUSINESS CRIME STRATEGY IS ON THE WAY FOR MILTON KEYNES SAYS CITY’S POLICE COMMANDER Milton Keynes police has no strategy to fight business crime, but that is set to change says Supt Gez Chiariello, with the help of MK Business Leaders.

Supt Chiariello, who took up his role as Local Policing Area Commander in MK six months ago, told Milton Keynes Business Leaders Partnership that after being invited to speak at its regular breakfast briefing on the issue of business crime, he looked for a related strategy locally or within Thames Valley Police – but he couldn’t find one.

He admitted: “TVP has no formal business crime strategy and there has been no requirement for a local strategy, yet business forms a significant community within Milton Keynes. So I felt it incumbent on me to develop one.”

Supt Chiariello told Business Leaders’ members and guests that business crime is defined as an offence committed against a person or property motivated by the connection of that person or property to a business. That can include theft from retail premises, online and cyber-crime and fraud.

“A business crime strategy will aim to reduce crime against businesses in Milton

Supt Gez Chiariello and Dr Philip Smith chairman MK Business Leaders Partnership

Keynes through engagement and sharing of intelligence so crime trends and perpetrators can be identified, and appropriate prevention advice or actions be put in place.

Support “It should also achieve a shared understanding of the definition of business crime and support business crime forums and watch-schemes that encourage partnership working and problem solving.”

He said the police should have the trust and confidence of the business community for them to report crime and incidents, and that they would support communities and victims of business crime and ensure they receive a response from the police.

“The way forward is to review any existing partnership arrangements, confirm and

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clearly define the issues, clarify any actions for the police and the business community and develop a plan with key milestones and measures,” he said, inviting MK Business Leaders to be involved in helping draw up a strategy.

Initiative That invitation was accepted by MK Business Leaders’ chairman Dr Philip Smith who said their members would embrace any initiative to tackle a problem which cost businesses and their clients and customers hundreds of millions of pounds a year.

“The business community needs to be talking to and working with the police on this important national issue and MK Business Leaders is pleased to take a lead on it here in Milton Keynes,” he said.

Issue Seven

30

awards

Declared open IT’S LOCAL AWARDS SEASON AGAIN AND THE FSB HERTFORDSHIRE AWARDS IS ENCOURAGING ALL COMPANIES AND SOLE TRADERS TO GO FOR IT!

Anne Amlot of returning headline sponsor, Pitney Bowes and Graham Buck, regional chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)

This year’s FSB Hertfordshire Business Awards have been declared open to entries from all companies and sole traders in the county with the theme of “optimism and opportunity” for the future.

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inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk Spring 2015

Hertfordshire’s small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) have been at the forefront of the UK’s powerful drive out of the recent recession and the awards are set to provide a snapshot of that amazing positivity.

Returning headline sponsor for this year’s FSB Hertfordshire Business Awards is county-based Pitney Bowes.

Ryan Higginson, Vice President Global Supplies at Pitney Bowes, said: “Hertfordshire is known as the county of opportunity, and this has never been more appropriate.

“It’s home to a diversity of successful small organisations, from dynamic start-ups to innovative technology businesses, and highperforming service companies. Behind every small business is an entrepreneur driving the organisation, working hard to deliver results and provide a fantastic service.

“The FSB Hertfordshire Business Awards recognise and reward those companies, and people, which create real impact, and work tirelessly to delight their customers. Pitney Bowes is honoured to be involved in the highlight of the Hertfordshire business calendar.”

Launched in Hertford on February 4, the competition is free to enter and open to all businesses based in Hertfordshire that commenced trading before January 2013. They do not have to be an FSB member to enter but they must be sole traders or have fewer than 250 employees at the time of entering. There are a range of categories to consider.

Karen McGeeney, communications director for the FSB Hertfordshire Business Awards, said: “Hertfordshire has been a hotbed for the creation of new companies in the last few years. Firms or sole traders who started out before January 2013 should consider entering these fabulous awards.

“Entering awards is the best kept secret in marketing; they can provide a fantastic return on investment so we urge everyone to fill in the application forms now.”

For more details and to enter, visit http://hertfordshireawards.co.uk/

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

Surging

SUPERFAST

broadband 31 THE CENTRAL SUPERFAST BROADBAND INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMME IN MILTON KEYNES AND BEDS HAS HIT THE 10,000 PROPERTIES MILESTONE

Nationally, the Government is celebrating more than 2 million UK homes and businesses having access to superfast broadband.

As a result of the BDUK programme, more than 10,000 extra homes and businesses can now connect to faster broadband - as the Central Superfast programme nears the end of its first eight months of action.

Central Superfast is a partnership between Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes Councils and BT to deliver superfast broadband services to residents and businesses.

Since June 2014 when the first green roadside cabinets were switched on, more than 50 new structures are up and running, making high-speed broadband available to more than 10,000 extra homes and businesses, and work is continuing at speed.

The multi-million pound Central Superfast partnership will make high-speed fibre broadband more widely available throughout Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes, especially in rural areas.

It builds on BT’s existing commercial roll-out, which has already made fibre broadband available to around 300,000 Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes homes and businesses.

The broadband leads of the three Central Superfast Councils, Cllr Richard Wenham (Central Bedfordshire Council), Mayor Dave Hodgson (Bedford Borough Council) and Cllr Rob Middleton (Milton Keynes Council), said: “Giving over 10,000 more properties access to faster broadband is a significant achievement and very much demonstrates the great things to come from the Central Superfast programme.

“Faster broadband will boost the Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes economies, help us to attract new businesses to the area and create new jobs. It will also make it far easier for residents to access the internet and the benefits it can offer.

“We’re tremendously proud of what we have achieved in a short space of time and look forward to seeing this first project’s rollout completed within the next two years. We are also pushing hard to extend superfast broadband coverage as far as possible, and a second phase of the project will support thousands more residents and business to access superfast broadband.”

The new technology provides download speeds of up to 80Mbps and upload speeds of up to 20Mbps, with the potential for even faster speeds in the future.

Businesses in these areas will be able to work faster and more efficiently. Having fibre broadband means users are able to run multiple, bandwidth-hungry applications at the same time and send and receive large amounts of data faster. Computer systems will be easier to back up and high quality video conferencing will become more commonplace.

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Picture from http://pixabay.com/

Residents can also enjoy a boost in speeds for home entertainment.

They will able to simultaneously download movies, transfer files, watch TV replays, surf the internet and play online games.

Downloading a whole music album could take them less than 30 seconds and a feature length HD movie less than 10 minutes, whilst high-resolution photos can be uploaded to Facebook in seconds.

Bill Murphy, BT’s Managing Director Next Generation Access, said: “Today marks a giant step forward in the rollout of fibre broadband in Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes and across the UK. “Working in partnership we have been able to reach into the heart of scores of communities across the region that would have so far been beyond the reach of this vital technology. Already we can see the impact that fibre is having nationally with the Government’s estimate of more than 56,000 jobs created as a result of this rollout by 2024 and rural economies benefiting by around £9 million every day due to the work being done now.

“We are proud to be delivering on our promises and BT’s high-speed fibre network now reaches almost 22 million premises nationwide – around three quarters of the UK – but we recognise there’s more to do.”

For more information about the Central Superfast programme, contact Steve Coulter on email steve.coulter@centralbedfordshire.gov. uk or visit www.bedford.gov.uk/broadband www.centralbedfordshire. gov.uk/broadband or www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/broadband For information about BT, please contact the BT regional press office on its 24-hour number: 0800 085 0660.

Issue Three

32

motoring

In Pods we trust A MAJOR REVIEW HAS CONFIRMED THE UK IS UNIQUELY POSITIONED TO DEVELOP DRIVERLESS CAR TECHNOLOGY, INSPIRE TAKES A LOOK Up to now, the scope for testing driverless cars has been limited, but industry has been given the green light for testing on public roads.

The UK’s regulatory environment now sets it apart as a premium location for developing new technology, with tremendous potential for reducing accidents and making traffic flow more smoothly.

Transport Minister Claire Perry said: “Driverless cars are the future. I want Britain to be at the forefront of this exciting new development, to embrace a technology that could transform our roads and open up a brand new route for global investment.

“These are still early days but today is an important step. The trials present a fantastic opportunity for this country to take a lead internationally in the development of this new technology.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “The UK is at the cutting edge of automotive technology - from the all-electric cars built in Sunderland, to the formula 1 expertise in the Midlands. It’s important for jobs, growth and society that we keep at the forefront of innovation, that’s why I launched a competition to research and develop driverless cars.

“The projects we are now funding in Greenwich, Bristol, Milton Keynes and Coventry will help to ensure we are world-leaders in this field and able to benefit from what is expected to be a £900 billion industry by 2025.”

The government’s industrial strategy is backing the automotive sector aiming to give business the confidence to invest over the long term and developing cutting-edge technology that will create high skilled jobs.

To mark the launch of the review, Vince Cable will join Claire Perry in Greenwich, home to one of the projects benefiting from £19 million government funding for driverless cars trials.

Along with Bristol, Milton Keynes and Coventry, the Greenwich project is building on the pioneering work begun last year by Oxford University in partnership with Nissan.

The ministers will witness the first official trials of the fully autonomous Meridian shuttle in Greenwich and unveil a prototype of a driverless pod that will be tested in public areas in Milton Keynes.

They will also be shown other autonomous vehicles involved in the trials, including a BAE wildcat vehicle that is the result of years of advanced research and development by BAE systems and will be tested in Bristol.

Whitehall believes the announcement shows the UK’s strong intent to take this technology to the next level and investigate how vehicles that can take greater control could improve our driving experience and increase safety further.

The Department for Transport review, carried out over the past 6 months, considered the best and safest ways to trial automated vehicles where an individual is ready to take control of the car if necessary. It also looked further ahead to the implications of testing fully automated vehicles.

The review provides legal clarity to encourage UK and international industry to invest in this technology and it encourages the largest global businesses to come to the UK to develop and test new models.

The next step is for the government to introduce a code of practice which will provide industry with the framework they need to trial cars in real-life scenarios, and to create more sophisticated versions of the models that already exist.

This code of practice is scheduled for publication in spring 2015, with the first driverless cars supported by the prize fund expected to be tested on roads by the summer.

Spring 2015

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marketing 33

The pains and pleasures

of digital in business BIG DATA IS ALL THE RAGE IN BUSINESS BUT A MEETING IN MILTON KEYNES HEARD IT’S NOT THE PANACEA. INSPIRE WAS THERE What impact does ‘big data’ have on the role of marketing in generating and increasing profits? Local businesses explored the challenges that ‘big data’ and digital have created for businesses in identifying markets and targeting their customers at an event recently.

Hosted by The Open University Business School (OUBS), the first in the series of Business Network Breakfast Briefings for 2015 was presented by Professor of Marketing and Director of the Institute for Social Marketing (ISM-Open), Sally Dibb.

Entitled ‘Big data’ and Digital: The Pleasures and Pains of Segmenting Markets, the Breakfast Briefing introduced business managers to the changing role of marketing in the digital age and presented research, which revealed the disruption that industry professionals face in making ‘big data’ and digital work for them.

Professor of Marketing at the OUBS, Sally Dibb, said: “There has been huge hype about developments in ‘big data’ and digital, which have been billed as a panacea for managers seeking the latest customer insight. Our research reveals the disruption that managers face as they seek to benefit. For some, big data is disempowering and overwhelming.

“One senior manager said that big data has made him doubt his intuitive understanding of his customers. Another commented that he doesn’t know who his customer is any more. In the words of a third senior manager: ‘There is more and more data in this day and age but that doesn’t necessarily mean there is more insight. You get drowned in numbers.’”

Martin O’Hara, National Strategy Manager for the EPSRC Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Ultra Precision at Cranfield University, who attended the Breakfast Briefing, said: “Big data is undoubtedly an important element for any business or organisation to consider in ensuring the growth and sustainability of their business; however, it is clear from the research presented by Professor Dibb that it can be overemployed and if not interpreted effectively, can be as confusing as it is illuminating.”

The Business Network brings together academics from The Open University Business School, with different areas of expertise, and Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

business practitioners from a wide range of backgrounds. The Breakfast Briefings offer a space to share experiences with other local managers both face-to-face and via the dedicated website.

For a free place at the next breakfast briefing, contact the OUBS Business Network via oubs-business-network@open.ac.uk

We’ll help you leave a rather more lasting impression Sometimes it’s not about the right here, right now.

Sometimes it’s about creating something that will stay in the mind and make a lasting impact.

When that’s what you need, we’re the people to talk to. Always reliable, ever professional with the passion and expertise to deliver a more enduring product.

Call us today to find out more.

Tel: 01582 573 471 e-mail: info@barthamgroup.com

Issue Seven

34

in the news

In the news Bidding for better

Companies on an industrial estate have got together in a bid to create a Business Improvement District.

If a vote gives it the go-ahead at Middlefield Industrial Estate, in Sandy, Bedfordshire, it will mean a levy on rates to be directed into improvement projects.

Michael Tucker, director of Manor Concepts refrigeration and chairman of the Middlefield BID steering group said: “The BID will bring businesses together in a way which has been seen to make a significant difference to other industrial estates around the country and many towns and city centres.

“Our research showed that 64 per cent of businesses thought the area had either deteriorated or stayed the same as a place to do business. We have to reverse this situation.

The ballot papers are going out now and we are encouraging all businesses to vote yes so that they can really make a difference to this area and make it a great place to invest and work.”

The two main objectives of the plan are to provide a safe and secure working environment for all businesses, workers, visitors and vehicles on the industrial estate, and to provide a smart and effective operating environment for businesses and for people who work there.

The result of the ballot will be known at the end of March.

Town centre booster New life is being breathed into the Jellicoe Water Gardens in Hemel Hempstead this year with a £3.6 million restoration.

The restoration, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund/Big Lottery Fund and Dacorum Borough Council, is a part of the wider Hemel Evolution regeneration scheme which is currently transforming the town centre.

Dominic Cole, Chairman of the Garden History Society explained: There are four parts to the gardens: the water, the flower garden, the Lovers’ Walk and the lawns alongside Waterhouse Street.

Overgrown The planting is overgrown and shaded by too many trees. The flowers have gradually disappeared and the whole thing is looking tired and threadbare.

Key to reinvigorating the ‘garden’ element (the flowers, healthy shrubs and glossy lawns) will be thinning and removal of trees; most of those proposed for removal were not part of Jellicoe’s design and were planted later without understanding how the design works.”

Spring 2015

A £16.5m education

Construction and infrastructure company Morgan Sindall and Aylesbury Vale District Council have celebrated a key milestone in the construction of a £16.5 million educational centre in Buckinghamshire, with a traditional topping out ceremony.

The last portion of the concrete frame which forms the super-structure of the new University Campus Aylesbury Vale (UCAV), was laid during a special celebratory ceremony to mark the completion of the main frame of the building on January 22.

The building is funded by Aylesbury Vale District Council as part of its ongoing investment in the town centre. Once complete, the building will be let to Buckinghamshire Education Skills and Training organisation, a partnership between Aylesbury College and Buckinghamshire New University.

Councillor Neil Blake, Leader of AVDC, said: “The topping out of this new building marks a major milestone in the redevelopment of the town centre. This is just the next step in fulfilling our vision of making Aylesbury a place of opportunity, enterprise and excellence, where individuals, communities and businesses flourish.

“The education centre will offer new opportunities for progression in learning and skills directly related to the requirements of the local economy. This is crucial both for the education and training needs of local people and for the success of local businesses and employers.”

The campus, which is due to open in autumn 2015, comprises a four-storey building, which will include educational facilities and public amenities including two restaurants, a cafe and a new public square.

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

in the news

New for Milton Keynes Council Leader Pete Marland has finalised an agreement which will see Milton Keynes benefit from millions of pounds of funding to help drive regeneration in the older parts of the borough, as well as helping to support key improvements on a busy local transport route.

35

Dream old Doctors

Science and Universities Minister Greg Clark signed the agreement confirming funding under the Growth Deal through the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership.

Milton Keynes has been promised £25million under the Growth Deal. The cash will be targeted at regenerating Bletchley, with improvements around the railway station, as well as helping towards long-awaited improvements to the A421, completing the dual carriageway to Junction 13 of the M1, enhancing links West and East MK - and further.

Dragon Boat racing

A new Centre for Doctoral Training is to be established at Cranfield University.

The ‘Risk and Mitigation: Using Big Data’ Centre is a consortium made up of the UK’s four leading academic centres of research excellence in big data, risk and mitigation.

Together they will apply their deep expertise in environmental risk management and intelligent technologies to utilise large data sets.

In our increasing digital world, ‘big data’ is becoming increasingly important to business and society. Collected from mobile phones to unmanned aerial vehicles, from satellite remote sensing devices to embedded sensor networks, often data sets can be so large or complex that it becomes difficult to apply traditional data processing applications.

Gap

This year’s version of the annual Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival has been launched at Willen Lake.

The annual fundraiser will take place for the 14th time in June on and around Willen Lake.

The event is the longest running and largest dragon boat event in the country – attracting up to 60 teams and thousands of spectators each year to Willen Lake, Milton Keynes.

Age UK Milton Keynes, suffering from funding cuts, will benefit from the fundraising activities of the competing teams.

The UK Government has recognised a skills gap in this area, so this Cranfield-led CDT will help bridge this gap, developing a new generation of industry and policy leaders able to draw effectively on big data to improve operational efficiencies, cost reductions and reduce risk.

Funded by the Natural Environment Research Council, the DREAM (Data, Risk And Environmental Analytical Methods) consortium is made up of Cranfield, Newcastle, Cambridge and Birmingham universities.

Government opens up Minister for the Cabinet Office, Francis Maude, has outlined new measures to open up Government contracts to local small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) like never before.

Paying businesses on time is critical to the cash flow of smaller businesses in the East of England where 43% of SMEs see late payment from customers as a hindrance to growing their business. Under these new rules, the public sector is now required to pay undisputed invoices within 30 days, and this requirement will now flow all the way down the supply chain.

Central government spent an unprecedented £11.4 billion with SMEs in 2013-14, as new figures showed that a record 26.1% of government spend went to SMEs.

The new data shows that central government spent 10.3% directly with SMEs, and 15.8% indirectly - meeting the aspiration it set in 2010 for 25% of procurement spend to be with SMEs by the end of this Parliament.

Research also shows that 36% of SMEs in the East of England don’t know where to look to find new business opportunities.

The Government has launched a refresh of its Contracts Finder website, at www.gov.uk/ contracts-finder, offering a much improved search including by location.

The site covers current and future public sector contracts above £10,000 in central government and £25,000 in the wider public sector. It’s free to use, including from smartphones and tablets, and so businesses in the East of England will be able to search for contracts close to them.

New legislation which comes into force today ensures that:

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•

30 day payment terms will be mandated down the supply chain - to suppliers and sub-contractors;

•

Public bodies will have to publish an annual late payment report to sharpen accountability;

•

The bidding process will be simplified across the wider public sector with complex forms, such as Pre-Qualification Questionnaires, abolished for low value contracts;

•

The procurement process for public sector contracts will be accelerated.

Lord Young, the Prime Minister’s Enterprise Adviser said: “Contracts Finder is a world first in terms of scale and ambition. It opens up government business like never before and levels the playing field for SMEs who in the past, didn’t know how to find public sector contracts, let alone bid for them.”

Issue Seven