Government Business Magazine issue 18.7

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | Volume 18.7

FRANCHISING

ENERGY

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

SPORTS & LEISURE Innovation and inspiration at LIW 2011

RECYCLING & WASTE MANAGEMENT – Find better ways to deal with waste

Why our new Public Sector tariff gets better and better A sim only tariff designed to help Public Sector organisations make savings

Get low rate mobile calls at 2.5p a minute Free ø to ø calls within your organisation* Plus all the cost savings of a sim only tariff

Call 0123 543 3507 or visit o2.co.uk/publicsectorsavings to arrange for an ø Public Sector specialist to contact you

*Subject to eligibility, public service only, phones not provided, subject to new minimum term contract. Periodic account review will be carried out. Free O2 to O2 calls within your organisation only if those calls are 35% of your total call minutes. O2 reserves the right to cancel the contract if you persistently exceed 35% for 6 consecutive months. Terms apply, see o2.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | Volume 18.7

FRANCHISING

eNeRGY

CoNFeReNCeS & eVeNTS

SPoRTS & leISuRe Innovation and inspiration at LIW 2011

ReCYClING & WASTe mANAGemeNT – Find better ways to deal with waste

Comment

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

WELCOME The current economic climate is prompting many people to reevaluate their circumstances and, particularly, their careers. For those new to the franchising industry, this issue of Government Business has an article by the British Franchise Association as well as a preview of the National Franchise Exhibition, to help you find out whether this is a career move for you. Please turn to page 31 to read more.

The effects of next year’s Diamond Jubilee and Olympic Games are already being felt in London, with new venues, hotels, activities and transport links available to event organisers. We find out more about what the capital has to offer on page 11.

For those of you looking for an inspirational day out of the office, we preview industry leading events such as Leisure Industry Week, IOG SALTEX, and RWM in partnership with CIWM, from page 49.

Enjoy the issue.

Sofie Lidefjard, Editor editorial@psigroupltd.co.uk

P ONLINE P IN PRINT P MOBILE P FACE TO FACE If you would like to receive 12 issues of Government Business magazine for £95 a year, please contact Public Sector Information, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055, Fax: 020 8532 0066, or visit the Government Business website at:

www.governmenttbusiness.co.uk PUBLISHED BY PUBLIC SECTOR INFORMATION LIMITED

226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Fax: 020 8532 0066 Web: www.psi-media.co.uk Editor Sofie Lidefjard Assistant Editor Angela Pisanu Production Editor Karl O’Sullivan PRODUCTION DESIGN Jacqueline Grist PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Reiss Malone Advertisement Sales Kelly Scott, Bernie Miller, Steve Day, Michael Kennedy, Jane Fraser, David Morgan, Julie Watson, Chris Grant Publisher John O’Leary Sales Administration Jackie Carnochan, Martine Carnochan Administration Victoria Leftwich, Joanne Mackerness Group Publisher Barry Doyle REPRODUCTION & Print Argent Media

© 2011 Public Sector Information Limited. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. ISSN 1362 - 2541

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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In the toughest conditions, experience pays.

Debt collection is our business. Whether collecting money from individuals or companies, working with our people pays. So what’s stopping you?

Call The Lewis Group today on 0870 751 3402 or log on to www.lewisgroup.co.uk

CONTENTS 06 NEWS 09 COMMUNICATIONS

What’s in store for visitors to the National Franchise Exhibition, taking place 30 September to 1 October?

This year’s Good Communication Awards will recognise communication excellence within the public sector

41 MONEY MATTERS

11 CONFERENCES & EVENTS

The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals explains how government proposals for more flexible parental leave will affect payroll departments

London boasts diverse and quirky event spaces, from medieval to modern, basic to boutique, and eccentric to elegant We look at the best team building and incentive activities in Scotland Known as the Garden of England, Kent offers a selection of remarkable conference venues in both new and traditional settings

31 FRANCHISING What are the things to consider when investing in a franchise, asks Tom Endean from the British Franchise Association

A look at possible changes to VAT legislation that could affect the public sector

45 BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Contents

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

57 LANDSCAPING & GROUNDSCARE We preview IOG SALTEX, the must-attend event for the turf care and open space industry

63 RECYCLING & WASTE MANAGEMENT Visitors at RWM in partnership with CIWM will be able to attend an extensive seminar programme covering the biggest waste and recycling issues

Regulation can be a help to properly functioning energy and climate markets, says the Energy Services and Technology Association

49 SPORTS & LEISURE Leisure Industry Week offers industry leading exhibitors, inspirational educational sessions and ground breaking features

Government Business

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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News

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF Counterfeit items to be put to good use Counterfeit items and other goods seized by Solihull Trading Standards are to be recycled and distributed to charities after officials teamed up with a national charity, His Church.

In the past, items seized by Trading Standards in Solihull would be destroyed with many goods being sent to either landfill sites or incinerators. Instead, His Church charity will collect counterfeit clothing and either remove and rebrand, or stitch over any illegal trade marks, ready To read more PLEASE VISIT... for charitable distribution www.governmentbusiness.co.uk/n/006 to people most in need.

Cycle stands for city centre businesses Newry and Mourne District Council, in partnership with Southern Investing For Health and with the support of local businesses, is helping to make life easier for cyclists by installing cycle stands at business premises within the city centre.

Mayor, councillor Charlie Casey, said: “I am very supportive of this initiative. Taking the bike, rather than the car, gives easy access to the city’s shops and business premises without the worry of traffic jams and parking spaces.”

The cycle stands are the start of a number of initiatives that will be rolled out to make Newry City more bike friendly.

New one stop shop for children and families Cheshire East Council has launched an online service to help families and carers get the help and information they need via one website.

The online directory enables people to find family services, activities and childcare services in one place.

In addition, there is useful information, advice and guidance on several related areas available. The extensive Children and Families Resource Directory can be viewed at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/fidy

Hotline to help pothole crackdown A potholes hotline is being launched in Middlesbrough in a drive to bring the town’s roads back to tip top condition.

The council is launching a pioneering three-month zero tolerance campaign to address the issue and mend the worst potholes across the town. The campaign will put residents centre-stage, inviting them to report potholes in their local area by calling a dedicated freephone helpdesk.

Throughout the programme – during July, August and September – Middlesbrough Council will undertake to inspect reported defects and repair as necessary within three working days.

The crackdown has been made possible with £247,000 of additional To read more PLEASE VISIT... and time-limited www.governmentbusiness.co.uk/n/007 government funding.

06

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE Volume | 18.7

HOUSING

Reviewing ways to tackle homelessness East Cambridgeshire District Council is to review how best to meet the needs of those facing homelessness.

Councillor Peter Moakes said: “In East Cambridgeshire, we have always tried to tackle homelessness through preventative measures to ensure people have somewhere to live.

However, we face an increasing number of obstacles due partly to the policies of the various governments of the last 30 years and partly with the very difficult economic climate that still exists.

“Despite this we have dealt with increasing demand well and still deliver our target of affordable homes by meeting the needs of people who are potentially homeless in other ways. From innovative use of the private rented market, to negotiating with

landlords to prevent people form being evicted – the challenge in our review is to maintain these standards in a tough financial climate.”

Last year, the council received over 1,700 of requests for help, re-housed over 200 families, supported 26 families threatened by domestic violence and delivered 147 new affordable housing units.

The work will take place over the next few months with a final improvement plan to be considered in February 2012.

MONEY MATTERS

More than £6 million invested to save £6.03 million from the Welsh Government’s Invest-to-Save Fund has been shared between a number of organisations to help them deliver top class public services while running as efficiently as possible.

Finance Minister Jane Hutt said: “Our unique approach, particularly through Investto-Save investment, provides public bodies with the support they need to help them develop and take forward their improvement projects for the benefit of the public.”

The latest funding will see, for example, £3m invested to enable six North Wales organisations

from local government, the emergency services and the local health board to join the Public Sector Broadband Aggregation Network (PBSA). This secure network, unique to Wales in the UK, can deliver voice, video and data communications between organisations, typically for around 20 per cent less. £500,000 has been earmarked for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to pilot digital speech recognition software that will deliver a 30 per cent reduction in costs, speed up communications between hospital doctors and GPs, and lead to improved patient services.

News

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

STREET LIGHTING

Central management for street lighting in Essex will reduce carbon emissions as well as save money Essex County Council’s Cabinet has approved a decision that will enable part-night street lighting across Essex through the introduction of a new central management system. The move to part-night street lighting will deliver significant financial benefits, a more efficient operating system across the county, and reduce light pollution and carbon emissions. Estimates suggest that switching 70 per cent of the county’s streetlights to part-night would reduce carbon emissions by 8,000 tonnes per year.

There will be consultation with district, borough and parish councils and emergency services before any decision is taken on which streetlights will be switch to part-night.

Essex County Council has been running a pilot part-night lighting scheme in Maldon and Uttlesford since 2007. Streetlights are switched off between 12 midnight and 5am, with exceptions for areas such as town centres, key road junctions and accident prone areas.

Since the pilot scheme began there has been no increase in recorded crime or road collisions in the two districts. The pilot has also delivered energy savings of 20 per cent (circa £70,000 per annum). The new central management system (CMS) will provide instant notification of any streetlight failure, so that they can be responded to more efficiently. Streetlights will also turn on and off with greater

will be full consultation in each district and borough before any decision is taken on which areas will be included in the scheme.”

Maldon and Uttlesford will be the first districts to have the CMS installed, in August 2011. The phased roll-out of the CMS and consultation on part-night lighting for all other districts and boroughs will begin later this year.

It is anticipated that 70 per cent of street lights in Essex will move to part-night lighting, following consultations with district, borough and parish councils and emergency services.

accuracy in relation to natural light levels.

County councillor Tracey Chapman, cabinet member for highways & transportation, said: “It is imperative that we take action to reduce our carbon emissions and energy expenditure, and part-night lighting will make a major contribution towards achieving this.

“Moving to part-night lighting is not a decision that we have taken lightly, and the pilot scheme in Maldon and Uttlesford has demonstrated that it does not contribute to an increase in crime or road collisions. There

ENVIRONMENT First ever Park Watch scheme patrols Coventry’s premier parks Residents have joined forces with Coventry City Council and Coventry Police to launch the first ever Park Watch scheme in the city.

Covering the War Memorial and Spencer parks, the scheme sees residents patrol the parks along with police community support officers or council park workers. They will help monitor and report any issues, and provide a visual presence to reassure the estimated 400,000 people who use the parks every year.

The scheme has been launched in response to community concerns over a range of issues in the two parks such as anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and environmental issues.

RECYCLING

SHARED SERVICES

New pilot initiatives to increase recycling in Carmarthenshire

Shared service gives benefits to citizens in Hertfordshire

Carmarthenshire County Council is piloting new initiatives to help residents recycle more.

They include free semi-clear bags for non-recyclable waste, and starch liners for food waste bins in four trial areas.

The schemes are being introduced at the request of the Executive Board to make it as easy as possible for householders to recycle, and help Carmarthenshire achieve its target of a 52 per cent recycling/ composting rate by 2012/13.

The starch liners will be provided to 8,000 households as a trial to discover whether it would increase the amount of food being collected.

Executive board member for the environment, councillor Philip Hughes said: “Last year we recycled just over 43 per cent, which is very encouraging, but we have a lot of work to do if

East Herts Council and Stevenage Borough Council are joining forces to provide housing benefit, council tax, business rates and benefit fraud investigations, saving both councils and taxpayers thousands of pounds.

The shared service will provide immediate savings of £133,000 next year (2012/13) and £173,000 every following year. Savings have already been achieved by a joint management arrangement, set up last August, giving total savings in excess of £200,000.

To customers, it will be business as usual: walk-in services will be maintained as now and claims and changes could be dealt with faster in the future with easier ways to get in touch.

Behind the scenes, East Herts Council’s Hertford base will be the hub although many staff working with the shared services

we are to reach 52 per cent.”

Blue bags will continue to be provided on an unlimited basis and can either be collected from the council’s customer service centres or various community outlets, or delivered on request free of charge.

The semi-clear bags will be available for free collection at all customer service centres.

To read more PLEASE VISIT... www.governmentbusiness.co.uk/n/008

will be taking up home working, flexible working and remote working. Secure IT systems will allow officers to take calls and help customers whether working at home or in Hertford.

Michael Tindale, executive member for finance at East Herts Council, said: “Financial pressures on both councils will be challenging for the foreseeable future and while separately we can and have done much, working in partnership is the best way to continue making savings while still providing an excellent service.”

Joan Lloyd, executive member for resources at Stevenage Borough Council, added: “We are providing crucial frontline services for residents and we are confident that this will enable us to provide a good and improved service to everyone.”

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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EVENT PREVIEW

effective communication awarded at the emirates

Communications

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

The public sector’s efforts towards clear and diverse communication with its citizens and workforce will be recognised at the 2011 Good Communication Awards Government communication departments are facing huge challenges over the coming years. Budgetary restrictions mean that the value of communications will be under more scrutiny than ever before.

It has been demonstrated that social media has a huge part to play in helping to achieve these savings. The development of tools such as blogs, podcasts and wikis are being utilised by government as a low cost way to reach its audiences. Social media, however, is still not a replacement for traditional communications methods, such as print and telephone contact.

The Good Communication Awards, taking place on 14 July at the Emirates Stadium, will recognise the public sector’s efforts towards effective and diverse communication with its citizens and workforce. The event will be presented by former newspaper editor Eve Pollard.

THE AWARDS The Award for Local Authority of the Year, sponsored by 2e2, is presented to the local authority that is judged to have delivered the most successful all round communications strategy, incorporating print, public relations, IT and telecommunications.

Meanwhile, the Government Communicator of the Year Award, sponsored by Best Companies, will recognise an individual in government who has demonstrated outstanding achievements in communications.

The Strategic Communications Campaign Award, sponsored by Callcredit Information Group, is presented to the local authority or government organisation that can demonstrate how its communications strategy has delivered measurable changes in public perception or customer behaviour.

PUBLIC RELATIONS The Internal Communications Award recognises successful internal communications practices that assist in building a culture to support strategy execution and effective communication with other core functions within the authority.

The Government to Citizen Communication Award recognises a specific campaign that has successfully connected with its target audience at a local or national level.

The Mixed Media Campaign, sponsored

by Daryl Wilcox Publishing, will recognise successful mixed media information

campaigns, where print, television, radio and internet media have combined to achieve campaigns objectives.

The Local Authority PR Team of the Year Award, sponsored by Amaryllis, recognises the local authority that has demonstrated all round excellence and outstanding communication skills to engage with its citizens and its workforce.

The award for PR Company of the Year, sponsored by Big Green Book, will recognise a private sector PR company that can demonstrate successful campaigns undertaken on behalf of local or central government.

PRINT The Council Publication of the Year Award will recognise what is judged to be the best council publication, produced either in magazine or newspaper format and distributed to residents on a regular basis.

Meanwhile, the Council Publication Design Award recognises the local authority that produces the most visually appealing publication.

The Council Publication Journalism Award will recognise the local authority publication that demonstrates a commitment to quality journalism and content that reflects the information needs of the target audience.

The final category in the print section, the Print Innovation Award, will recognise the local authority or government department that has demonstrated the most innovative use of print in communicating with citizens or the workforce.

IT AND E-GOVERNMENT The award for IT Infrastructure will recognise a government department that has improved processes by investing in its IT infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the Government Website of the Year Award, sponsored by Eduserv, is taken home by the government website project that can demonstrate a high degree of innovation and usability in providing its website service to citizens and/or local authorities and businesses.

The award for IT Project Innovation is presented to the local authority or central government department that has delivered an IT project within budget that improves communication channels between government and the citizen.

The Website Accessibility Award, sponsored by DSPG, will be presented to the

organisation that cleverly uses technology to reach traditionally hard-to-reach groups such as users who are disabled.

The IT Partnership Award will be awarded to the local authority that can demonstrate an effective partnership approach to delivering IT related services, and in turn better value to citizens.

TELECOMS The Mobile Technology Award is presented to the local authority or central government department that has implemented a mobile strategy that can demonstrate either benefits to citizens through increased access to services; or benefits to the organisation through increased efficiencies.

The award for Telecoms Innovation, sponsored by MLL Telecom, is taken home by the government department that can demonstrate an effective use of a new or emerging communication technology.

The Contact Centre of the Year Award, sponsored by Genesys, is given to the local authority contact centre that can demonstrate an effective increase in call handling, complaints management, staff training and staff support.

The Contact Centre Training Award will be presented to the local authority or central government department that can demonstrate improvements in call handling, customer complaints management, staff training and staff retention.

The Award for Contact Centre Technology, sponsored by Clement Clarke Communications, recognises the local authority that can present the most innovative use of call centre technology in order to increase call handling levels and improve conditions for the workforce. L

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.gcawards.co.uk

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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What you want,

where you want it

• Over 30 great central locations across the UK • 11 hotels in London • Flexible meetings and events space • Over 2000 new-look bedrooms • Preferential Government rates available For London enquiries please call: 0845 676 9009 For hotels outside London please visit: thistle.com/letsmeet

LONDON

Conferences & Events

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

exciting times for the capital

London is soon to host some of the biggest events in the world, and with all eyes on the capital, many improvements are being made, from new transport links, to new event venues and hotels

E Afternoon Tea at the Inter Continental Park Lane

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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R E S Ta U R a n T S H i P

HiSPanioLa

DINNER CRUISE UniQUE RivERSidE vEnUE

Riverside venues in London don’t come any better than the R.S. Hispaniola. l Private Hire & Events l Boardroom & Meeting Room Hire l Suitable for up to 250 seated or 400 standing l Restaurant, Bar & Sun Terraces l Perfect for Pimms Party’s, Private BBQ or dinning from our distinctive Mediterranean style menu

For information and reservations call 020 7839 3011 or e-mail: info@hispaniola.co.uk www.hispaniola.co.uk

d i n E a n d d a n c E T H E n i g H T a w ay a S yo U c R U i S E T H E R i v E R T H a M E S

Take a leisurely evening cruise through the heart of London, with its famous sights and breathtaking river views – in summertime you’ll also enjoy a stunning sunset.

3.5 hour river cruise l Welcome drink l 4-course dinner l

Half-bottle of wine l Entertainment l Dancing l

Available for group bookings and private hire call 020 77 400 400 for booking and prices citycruises.com

LONDON E London is one of the most inspirational and diverse capitals in the world and these are exciting times for London. Over the next year London is set to host some of the biggest events in the world – from a plethora of sporting test events happening this summer, to the eagerly awaited Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in June 2012 and of course the Piece De Resistance event crown the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games which will start 27 July.

With the eyes of the world on London, the halo effect around all these events are already being felt right now in the city. There are literally thousands of improvements across the city – such as new transport links, new venues, new hotels and new activities – all of which can be taken advantage of now.

If you are planning an event or conference in 2011, 2012 or beyond, London has the capacity to cater for the most intimate meeting to the largest of congresses. London also boasts the most diverse and quirky events spaces from medieval to modern, basic to boutique eccentric to elegant.

If you are considering soaking up the celebratory atmosphere by bringing an event or corporate activity to London then start your research by speaking to the official

convention bureau London & Partners.

London & Partners (previously known as Visit London) has a dedicated team in place to assist any business bringing their events to London, and the best thing, it’s totally free and impartial.

The London & Partners convention bureau can help you navigate through thousands of venues, hotels and activity options. They will advise you on everything that’s possible in London.

What’s happening in 2011?

2011 is shaping up to be a bumper year for sports in the capital. Plan your trips around the schedule of world-class competitions coming to London including the World Badminton Championships at Wembley Arena (8-14 August), the ITU World Triathlon London (6-7 August), and the final stages of the Tour of Britain (18 September). Visitors can catch a match then take a tour of one of the city’s iconic sports venues, from Wembley to Wimbledon.

London also has many cultural options to suite any itinerary; don’t miss the British Museum’s Australian season which will see an Australian landscape garden appear in the building’s forecourt. Or for something

closer to home, explore the fascinating heritage behind London’s streets at the Museum of London’s Street Photography exhibition – showing until September.

Enjoy the long summer nights with a trip to Regent’s Park to see a production at the Open Air Theatre, this year playing host to the hit Gershwin musical comedy, ‘Crazy for You’ from July. From there, why not take a stroll to visit ZSL London Zoo and check out their brand new penguin exhibit.

A summer’s day is perfectly spent with a trip to World Heritage Site Greenwich. Stand at the point where time begins, learn about the nation’s maritime heritage and see a show at the O2 Arena, the most successful music venue in the world. While there, head to the British Music Experience, Britain’s museum of popular music – from June the Jazz, Blues & Beyond exhibition will chronicle the origins of the British music festival with a series of previously unpublished photographs of The Who, Cream, Rolling Stones and more. Great group rates and coach parking are available.

Conferences & Events

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Where to stay?

Over the last 12 months London has seen a flurry of new incredible hotels opening. Here the London & Partners business team E

Cityscape

Intercontinental Park Lane

South Bank

St Ermin’s Hotel

The Montcalm London City at The Brewery

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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GovBusMag_Wyndham.indd 1

16/09/2010 13:46

events at Imperial innovateinspireinformimpress

over 200 flexible event spaces in central London • • • • • • •

conferences exhibitions meetings and seminars dinners and banquets residential conferences award-winning catering superb central location

020 7594 9494 South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ

www.imperial.ac.uk/conferenceandevents

LONDON E share just a few of the new hotels which are making London a must-visit city: The Montcalm London City Hotel has recently opened its doors to delegates, business travellers and weekenders in the confines of the reputed and award-winning event space that is The Brewery. Formerly the site of the Whitbread & Co brewery, this exceptional Grade II listed building has been stunningly transformed into a contemporary 5* hotel whilst preserving its heritage values. Offering world class service levels with a design-led ethos, the new hotel has 235 boutique designed bedrooms designed especially for business travellers.

Created by renowned London architects at Jestico + Whiles, the sleek new W LondonLeicester Square hotel features 192 stylish guest rooms, a W The Store retail outlet, as well as a destination restaurant and a signature bar experience. W London – Leicester Square has been designed for true Londoners, offering a stylish urban sanctuary for global jetsetters and local London insiders.

London Syon Park, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, will be a 5* deluxe hotel offering guests a most incredible and unique experience. The hotel is based in the 200-acre estate of Syon Park, the grounds of the London home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland.

Taking its cue from the Syon Pleasure

Ground created in the 18th century by famed landscape designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, this new jewel in the Waldorf Astoria crown overlooks a captivating landscape and offers the best of all pleasurable worlds – tranquil escape, a tradition of grand hospitality and state-of-the-art amenities that define both the Waldorf Astoria experience and the rich legacy of Syon Park.

The new Corinthia Hotel London, which is located near Trafalgar Square, was once was the magnificent Metropole Hotel.

With 300 exceptionally designed and spacious rooms. The Corinthia also offers a number of suites boasting some amazing views, including the River Thames and the London Eye. The elegant central courtyard foyer, restaurants, luxury ESPA spa, destination bar, meeting facilities and delicately refurbished grand ballroom guarantee guests a lavish retreat. the heart of london The St. Ermin’s Hotel, formerly known as the NH Jolly St. Ermin’s, features stylish, contemporary accommodation and warm service in the heart of Westminster. The hotel offers 230 rooms and is located a five-minute stroll to Parliament Square, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament and Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, making it an ideal destination for E

TIPS FOR LONDON EVENT PLANNING

Conferences & Events

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Zanine Adams, London & Partners’ head of event solutions and UK sales, gives us some of her top tips for planning an event in the capital: Prior to the event, send your delegates downloadable audio guides to give them an opportunity to sample a taste of London and get the most out of their stay. Cities in Sound uses local people to give you a real insight into London – select ‘Guard Change’ and explore life under the bear skin with a former Guardsman.

Work with London’s talented Blue Badge Guides to give your attendees a local’s insight into where to find the city’s best hidden gems. You could incentivise your guests with a blue badge tour of the Olympic Park, or to have an enjoyable trip around London learning little snippets of history.

Check out London’s busy event schedule and plan your conference around one of the many free events held in the capital each year. Landmark events such as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and World Pride, both coming in 2012, will provide fantastic free downtime activities for delegates.

Make use of the Olympic venues – book your next conference in the Velodrome or the Olympic Stadium. Or get into the spirit over the next year and book a venue like ExCeL London, The O2 Arena or Greenwich Park, all soon to be Olympic venues. Get the best view of Olympic Park itself by hosting your event at Foreman’s Fish Island where you can sample the finest smoked salmon while you watch the park take shape.

Time your conference to take advantage of great value offerings; consider booking between the Olympic and Paralympics and take advantage of the city spirit. The 13-29 August will avoid peak periods, but still allow you to make the most of the city’s Games spirit.

The Corinthia

The Corinthia offers a number of suites boasting some amazing views, including the River Thames and The London Eye. The elegant central courtyard foyer, restaurants, meeting facilities and delicately refurbished grand ballroom guarantee guests a lavish retreat.

Take advantage of the incredible free museums and galleries in the capital. From culture to art and history, your delegates can see some of the world’s finest collections without spending a penny.

Get creative! Pop-ups stores are all the rage in the fashion and celeb world. Why not create London pop-up stalls to serve your delegates different refreshments – maybe a Brick Lane curry or Fortnum & Mason macaroons stall.

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Flexible Affordable Central

Conference Services

London South Bank University’s affordable, spacious and flexible meeting and conference facilities offer you an impressive venue in central London.

Coin Street Conference Centre

Contemporary purpose-built conference and meeting spaces situated on London’s dynamic South Bank with excellent transport links.

• Range of large and small flexible spaces • Minutes from Waterloo station and the London Eye • Views of the London skyline • Floor to ceiling natural daylight • Roof terrace • High spec AV equipment • Contemporary designer furniture • Environmentally sustainable features • Special rates for government bodies - quote GBM2011 when enquiring

Our conference rooms always include all audiovisual aids you will need, at no extra cost, making us an easy, affordable option. Our in-house caterers have the inspiration and menus to suit any appetite and budget. We offer an easy-to-reach venue with fantastic views over central London.

For more information, please find us on www.lsbu.ac.uk/business/venue Tel: 0207 815 7000 Email: conferences@lsbu.ac.uk

Conference_ad4.indd 1

Coin Street neighbourhood centre is owned and managed by Coin Street Community Builders, a social enterprise and development trust.

Coin Street neighbourhood centre, 108 Stamford Street, South Bank London SE1 9NH 020 7021 1650 conferences@coinstreet.org www.coinstreet.org

16/06/2011 14:58

Three superb venues for all your corporate needs

Alexandra Suite St Mary’s Road, Swanley, Kent BR8 7BU

The Woodlands Hilda May Avenue, Swanley, Kent BR8 7BT

The Olympic Beechenlea Lane, Swanley, Kent BR8 8DR

• Min/Max capacity: 2/270 • Flexible meeting and banqueting rooms • Ideally located at junction 3 (M25) Junction 1 (M20) • Excellent transport links to London and the South East • Free car parking • Free internet access • Personal service tailored to meet your needs • Exceptional value • Hotel accommodation nearby • Corporate functions and Christmas events Telephone: 01322 613900 Email: swanleybanqueting@swanley.org.uk Website: www.swanley.org.uk

London’s Most Central Venue • Conference Centre for up to 195 delegates • Flexible Meeting Room Hire • Competitive Rates Special Day Delegate Rates For Government Business (To book this rate please quote GBM11) Contact - Conference Manager St Giles Hotel – London, Bedford Avenue, London, WC1B 3GH Tel: 020 7300 3052 Fax: 020 7300 3208 E-mail: londonconference@StGiles.com Web: www.StGiles.com

LONDON E first-class business and leisure travel.

The Marriott St. Pancras Renaissance London Hotel is a grade 1 listed building, originally designed by architect Sir George Gilbert Scott to house the Midland Grand Hotel. It is a Victorian masterpiece, lovingly restored in every detail, from the Gothic revival façade to the grand stairwell, gold leaf ceilings and other eccentric touches. To stay at the St Pancras London Renaissance Hotel is to experience all the romance of the golden age of rail travel, brought thrillingly into the 21st century.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, and its new destination brand, Aloft Hotels, are due to open Aloft London ExCeL by 2012. The hotel will boast 252 rooms located at ExCeL London and will deliver an urban-influenced, open and vibrant design experience at an affordable price.

The more established Guoman & Thistle hotels are confidently holding their place for top quality meeting space and accommodation in London.

Multi million pound investments have been made in refurbishing the product and enhancing service across the hotels.

Guoman & Thistle has over 5,000 bedrooms and 150 meeting rooms; from the contemporary to classic, within a range of 16 iconic, excellently appointed hotels across the capital.

Fun Activities As well as soaking up the general celebratory atmosphere in London, there are also a number of new corporate events and activities on offer.

A great team-building or corporate event could be an afternoon tea. The InterContinental London Park Lane has revealed a brand new take on afternoon tea, to be enjoyed exclusively in its recently transformed Wellington Lounge. Inspired by the grand parks the hotel overlooks, The Wellington Tea – created by the hotel’s executive chef Paul Bates – uses a range of delicious ingredients from the British Isles.

Incorporating all the favourite elements of an afternoon tea, the summer menu at the Wellington Lounge will feature West Coast lobster open sandwiches with the brightest baby red stalk sorrel from Worcestershire and warm, home-baked scones with Kentish strawberry jam and Cornish clotted cream.

Regent Street ready to celebrate. © Sister PR.

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Corinthia Hotel London Zoo

The ultimate team building Why not try out the brand new Lee Valley Regional Park which will be used in the 2012 Olympic Games. The Lee Valley White Water Centre opened this spring and has two separate courses – a 300m Olympic Games competition course and a 160m training course. This is the only brand new London 2012 venue to open to the public before the Games and will be a great location to team build whilst trying out white water rafting or perfect your kayaking skills. E

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“let’s meet” at The Kingsley Formerly known as Thistle Bloomsbury The Kingsley hotel has been transformed with a 10 million top to bottom refurbishment and is now the most trendy and relaxing place to do business in Bloomsbury. Located just a short walk from Holborn and Tottenham Court Road Tube stations, The Kingsley provides an ideal venue for business meetings and events or family occasions. We have been careful to preserve the fine period features of this classic Edwardian hotel. Our largest function room, the Albion Room, seats up to 80 people, making it suitable for a wide variety of conferences and product launches.

Let’s meet, we promise it will be easy to do business with us.

Ausra Barber | Meetings & Events Sales Executive | The Kingsley Tel: 0871 376 9006 | Fax: 0207 405 2335 www.Thistle.co.uk

MIC Hotel & Conference Centre MIC is the first UK accredited ethical hotel with the Social Enterprise Mark providing affordable quality hotel rooms, hospitality and meeting facilities, and is a superb centrally located contemporary venue just three minutes walk from Euston Station which is convenient for many London mainline train services, tube services and local buses. There are 15 individual meeting rooms for 2 to 120 delegates, all either have natural light or are air conditioned. Our Atrium is a superb venue for private events with a capacity of up to 130 people.

Our Day Delegate Rate includes most things you will need for a productive meeting: an appropriately sized meeting room, beverages and mineral water throughout the day and a hot

two-course lunch in the restaurant or alternatively, a working lunch can be served in your meeting room. We offer special day delegate rates for charities and non-profit organisations from £39 per person. All meeting rooms can also be hired at an hourly rate, have Wi-Fi access and can be arranged to suit most configurations. A range of AV equipment, including conference phones, is available to hire and a technician is available if required, at an additional cost.

At MIC, fine cuisine has become a renowned feature for both quality and value. Food is imaginatively designed, cooked and served using fresh and, whenever possible, regional and Fairtrade products.

For Sales and Event bookings, please contact us on 0207 380 0001 Email sales@micentre.com or you can visit our website: www.micentre.com

Here at MIC, we make your comfort our business!

The world’s largest centre for contemporary dance Laban offers specialist training to up-&-coming dance artists. The building was designed by acclaimed architects Herzog & de Meuron of Tate Modern fame, the Beijing National Stadium (2008 Olympic Games), & winning Laban the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize for ‘Britain’s Building of the Year’ in 2003.

A stunning, ultra-modern venue providing an inspirational setting for events, its facilities include a 294-seat state-of-the-art theatre, a 100-seat lecture theatre, 13 versatile ‘blank canvas’ studios, smaller meeting spaces & a funky foyer area for up to 400. Outside, a 200seat amphitheatre has been carved into landscaped gardens, offering a stunning setting for alfresco functions & weddings, with the building providing a dramatic backdrop both by day and by night. A flexible arrangement for both technical services and catering is on offer at Laban – either via the in-house teams, or via approved external suppliers.

Laban is easily accessible from central London, a short walk from the bustling centre of Maritime Greenwich.

‘It is a building which champions the idea that intelligence, creativity, imagination and art make life better.’

- Rowan Moore, London Evening Standard Laban, Creekside, London SE8 3DZ T 020 8469 9452 F 020 8691 8400 S.Ferreira@trinitylaban.ac.uk www.trinitylaban.ac.uk

Laban in #1 ranked raph’s leg The Te inspiring st ‘50 mo ings in build in’ Brita (2008).

LONDON pedicures and waxing courtesy of Bliss.

Spacious treatment rooms include one double suite for couples’ treatments, three single treatment rooms complete with showers and an additional five generously-sized single treatment rooms.

St. Ermin’s Hotel

E Secret Gardens Senate House, the art deco centrepiece of the University of London, has unlocked its three private garden spaces for event hire.

Nestled amongst the Georgian architecture of Bloomsbury, the Woborn Square, Malet Street and Gordon Square spaces offer respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Ideal for groups from 100 to 2,000, the verdant rose filled gardens offer an intimate setting and perfect backdrop for alfresco dining, entertaining or even a fun team building event.

Chelsea Football Club has a new dedicated events space at its Stamford Bridge Stadium.

Entitled ‘Under the Bridge’, the new space can accommodate up to 600 standing or 300 for dinner and is designed for showcases, fashion shows, concerts, photo shoots and product launches. Stamford Bridge has 21 event spaces including the Great Hall, 60 syndicate rooms,

281 bedrooms in two hotels, four restaurants and bars including two by Marco Pierre White, and a club and spa, The Chelsea Club.

Game, set and relax at Mandara Spa – the new luxurious Mandara Spa at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, located in the heart of the South Bank offers a whole range of fantastic spa treatments. Launched in February this year, Mandara Spa has brought a taste of Bali to Britain. From a menu of therapies incorporating ingredients native to the Indonesian islands, to its soothing design with a contemporary Balinese décor, the spa offers an exotic escape in the heart of the city.

In addition to Mandara Spa body treatments, such as its signature Balinese Massage, Asian Head Massage and Mandara Harmony Package, the spa also offers signature Elemis facials and detox therapies as well as manicures,

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Where to dine Executive chef at Baltic, Silvena Rowe is well known for her slots on TV’s Saturday Kitchen and has now opened her new restaurant Quince at The May Fair hotel.

Serving up a menu of eastern-Mediterranean cuisine the restaurant is a perfect spot for business lunches and corporate events.

Heston Blumenthal has brought his quirky and brilliant approach to culinary alchemy to the Mandarin Oriental London in the form of his new restaurant, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. The menu focuses on the revival and innovation of traditional British recipes, and includes simple contemporary dishes inspired by our historic gastronomic past, such as scallops with cucumber ketchup and peas, bergamot cured mackerel salad and slow cooked short rib of beef.

Pollen Street Social is the first independent restaurant from Jason Atherton, who left Maze restaurant last year to fulfil his long held ambition. Pollen Street Social, as the name suggests, is located on Pollen Street, close to Hanover Square, London.

The restaurant represents a new, more informal restaurant style for Jason, where his much acclaimed cuisine is served in a stylish and unstuffy environment. The menu offers dishes that Jason describes as “having one foot in the past and the other in the future,” where classical techniques underpin his creativity and influences picked up during his time working in some of the most innovative kitchens of the world. L FOR MORE INFORMATION www.londonandpartners.com

Keep within budget, yet still have a great time Bordering the ancient woodlands of Epping Forest, the Waltham Abbey Marriott Hotel in Essex offers a special setting that keeps business travellers productive and leisure travellers relaxed.

It is ideally located 100 yards from junction 26 off the M25 and near the M11, M1. Loughton Underground station and the Central Line into London is a five minute drive from the hotel.

This contemporary hotel is only 20 minutes from Stansted airport, and only 30 minutes from central London and its world-class commercial centres and famed sights.

As a guest of the Waltham Abbey Marriott Hotel UK, you’ll find stylish guest rooms that blend classic comfort with modern flair.

Recreation opportunities include leisure club, with a large indoor pool, children’s splash pool, fitness centre and sauna.

For dining, the contemporary restaurant offers guests a truly exceptional and unique dining experience, and as a premier

business hotel in Essex your event will prosper in one of our 14 meeting rooms.

At the Waltham Abbey Marriott there are many amazing savings to take advantage of, such as our Thursday special rates from £99 24-hrs delegate, which includes unlimited tea and coffee, three-course lunch, meeting room hire, overnight accommodation and a full English breakfast.

For more information on this and many other fantastic offers, contact our team today.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01992 717170 Fax: 01992 651029 rosanna.marcantonio@marriotthotels.com www.walthamabbeymarriott.co.uk

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Only in Scotland will your conference be truly inspiring.

Scotland provides a stimulating environment to give new perspective to your own ideas and spur you on to greater heights.

Some of the world’s oldest universities and modern research institutes nurture fresh talent to follow in the famous footsteps of alumni, who have changed the world as we know it.

Given Scotland’s reputation as a leading light in the fields of science, medicine, finance, energy and technology, it’s no surprise we have conference facilities to match.

And it’s never been easier to get here. So to find out more about hosting an event in Scotland, log onto conventionscotland.com Or perhaps that should be unconventional Scotland.

Only in Scotland

Hi-tech conference centres in stimulating surroundings.

You can’t help but be inventive.

TEAM BUILDING

ENERGETIC scotland There is no better time than 2011 for the business traveller to make the most of Scotland’s active pursuits as the entire country celebrates the Year of Active Scotland. Here’s our pick of the best As it prepares to stage two of the world’s greatest sporting events in 2014, the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup, Scotland’s reputation as a leading active travel destination is stronger than ever. The country, with its world class adventure resources and wide open spaces, is a natural playground for outdoor incentives and team building challenges.

There is no better time than 2011 for the business traveller to make the most of Scotland’s active pursuits as the entire

country is currently celebrating the Year of Active Scotland. Scotland boasts more than 200 islands, as well as stunning mountains, lochs and glens and is well placed for many of the UK’s more tough charity and corporate challenges. A wide range of operators are on hand to organise unique corporate activities where both business and healthy-living can go hand in hand while enjoying Scotland’s wild beauty.

One challenge that has been created for the seriously adventurous group is

There is no better time than 2011 for the business traveller to make the most of Scotland’s active pursuits as the entire country is currently celebrating the Year of Active Scotland.

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the Big Small Isles Challenge. This new, energetic team building package explores four mountainous islands within the Inner Hebrides. Organised by Wilderness Scotland – Scotland’s only five-star accredited activity provider – the challenge is for participants to climb the highest peaks of Rum, Eigg, Canna and Muck within a tight timescale.

Delegates can savour fantastic views and rigorous walking while experiencing the thrill of riding the waves between the islands on a high-speed rigid inflatable boat.

Fun Activities Also on the islands, but for those who prefer their feet firmly on land, the Be Your Best Boot Camp helps groups to explore the magical Isle of Skye. Promising health benefits alongside the luxury of a getaway experience, the Be Your Best team provides exhilarating and fun activities varying from raft building on Skye’s stunning Glenbrittle beach to participating in the Cuillin mountain challenge day.

One outdoor venue that offers the perfect location for larger groups and has a track E

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Modern conferencing   historic setting

Our comprehensive facilities at the Royal College  Physicians  Edinburgh range  lecture theatre to meeting rooms, Great Hall  Georgian suite Choice of spaces for conferences, meetings, dinners  receptions for 3–300 Full AV support  video conferencing Stylish central Edinburgh location  9 Queen Street Please contact us on    or events@rcpe.ac.uk

www.rcpe.ac.uk/conferencing Scottish charity no. SC009465

CONFERENCE ROOMS

The Bothwell Bridge offers a choice of three suites.

The Sala Classica (up to 480 delegates).

The Renaissance Suite (up to 120 delegates) and Nonna Rita suite (up to 100).

EXHIBITION VENUES

Choice of three suites: Renaissance Suite which has 685 square ft available Nonna Rita Suite which has 1595 square ft available Sala Classica which has 4640 square ft available

SMALL MEETING & INTERVIEW ROOMS

A versatile and professional space which can accommodate a maximum of 8 delegates.

BOTHWELL BRIDGE HOTEL 89 Main Street, Bothwell, Glasgow G71 8EU Tel: 01698 852 246 www.bothwellbridge-hotel.com

TEAM BUILDING

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Treezone at Rothiemurchus Estates

Aldourie Castle

E record of successful public sector events, is Crieff Hydro. Conveniently located only an hour’s drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow airports and centrally placed within Scotland, the hotel caters for large scale events and conferences and regularly hosts government exhibitions and conferences. With over 200 contemporary bedrooms and conference facilities for up to 500, plus more than 60 activities available to delegates, Crieff Hydro is the perfect place to combine a meeting with team building. Everything is on offer, from pony trekking, archery and field sports to quadbiking, Segways safari, a water tornado ride and specially created Hydro challenge – all perfect for testing and inspiring your team. Crieff Hydro’s dedicated conference team has created delegate packages to suit all organisations and can tailor-make a range of activities that fits well with the business in hand.

In 2012 The International Tug of War championships in February will be hosted

by Crieff Hydro. The event will see 1,100 delegates, using the large Melville Hall for their after party and preparing for their challenges in the superb spa. Speaking about the event, John Jennett, managing director of Crieff Hydro comments: “The enormous range of facilities allows us to look at an equally large array of business tourism from international events such as the Tug of War finals to national association conferences as well as smaller corporate team building and management events.”

Further afield and also offering a range of

Gleneagles

The world famous Turnberry hotel in Ayrshire offers a wealth of top class meeting facilities and specialises in bespoke boardroom experiences. Be it a meeting for a dozen or a conference for 200 delegates, Turnberry offers a room to suit any organisation’s event. superb outdoor activities, Aldourie Castle on the shores of Loch Ness is a terrific location for exhilarating watersports. In summer the grounds of Aldourie host the RockNess festival with up to 35,000 revellers. For the rest of the year the grounds offer tranquillity, space and the chance to re-energise the team in some superb surroundings.

Adrenaline rush The castle partners with Highlands-based supplier, Boots ‘n’ Paddles, to create team building with a twist. Visitors can literally walk on water in giant inflatable ‘wow’ balls, or take to the open waters of the loch in kayaks and canoes or even enjoy the challenge of raft building. Alternatively a high-speed adrenaline rush is on offer with a thrilling boat ride on the loch with Cruise Loch Ness. Cruise Loch Ness offers two ways to get up close and personal with Scotland’s most famous loch.

The Royal Scot – a leisurely cruise – is the way to view stunning scenery. A more speedy way to see the loch is eXplore Loch Ness – a

unique, fast and exhilarating rigid inflatable boat (RIB) trip accessing loch-side areas which are otherwise inaccessible to larger cruises.

Aldourie has gorgeous breakout rooms, 13 bedrooms in the house and more in cottages on the estate, superb food and service, plus plenty of space for mid-sized meetings.

Under half an hour’s drive from Inverness Airport, which has frequent flights from the south of England, Aldourie represents a superb and speedy way to get away from it all and thrill the team at the same time. a Highland Playground Further east, the Highland town of Aviemore is a true Highland playground. Central to the town is the Macdonald Aviemore Highland Resort which caters for conferences and meetings for up to 1,150 people including 455 bedrooms onsite. Within the resort, the state of the art Osprey Arena can take up to 650 seated and, with a further series of high quality breakout rooms and exhibition space, the hotel is perfect for a major association E

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Ayrshire’s conference and banqueting centre

H OTEL

T HE

Experience the very best in quality and style

• • • •

50 luxury four star ta be bedrooms State of the art facilities with free wi-fi Theatre style conferencing for up to 600 delegates Choice of bars, dining facilities & meeting rooms

Delegate packages from

£25 inc VAT per person

Kilmarnock (01563) 545999

www.theparkhotelayrshire.co.uk

The Park Hotel, Rugby Park, Kilmarnock KA1 1UR e: enquiries@theparkhotelayrshire.co.uk

Conference & Events Because the Whole Experience Matters Conferences Dinners Exhibitions

Government DDR £30 (ex VAT) Central Edinburgh Location – 50 to 600 delegates Free Onsite Parking www.murrayfieldexperience.com 0131 346 5250

Kenmore Hotel is Scotland’s best kept secret… situated in the heart of Perthshire in the conservation village of Kenmore, at the mouth of the famous River Tay, Kenmore Hotel is famous for its warmth, charm and true Highland hospitality. Roaring log fires await you in Scotland’s Oldest Inn. The hotel offers 40 en-suite bedrooms, AA Rosette award winning restaurant, two function suites, and two well-stocked bars. Packages are tailor-made to suit our clients, offering an expert friendly service second to none.

Kenmore Hotel, Well Worth Discovering!

The Kenmore Hotel, The Square, Kenmore, Perthshire PH15 2NU 01887 830 205 | reception@kenmorehotel.co.uk | www.kenmorehotel.com

TEAM BUILDING Out-of-the-ordinary venues in Scotland

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Yurts – Hire a Mongolian Yurt with a log-burning stove for your next team event and also enjoy some outdoor activities from corporate match racing in 26 racing yachts, to archery, raft building and circuit programs. www.lochtay-vacations.co.uk Wow Balls – Climbing inside a giant inflatable sphere, delegates have the opportunity to literally walk on the waters of Loch Ness moving backwards and forwards, side to side and even upside-down. www.boots-n-paddles.co.uk

With boundless fresh air and a plethora of beautiful remote landscapes and wild outdoors, Scotland is perfect for organisations large and small that are looking to escape, appreciate the outdoors and get fighting fit at the same time.

E conference. With a wide range of outdoor providers based locally, Aviemore is a superb location for a meeting with adrenaline on tap.

The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) recently brought 560 delegates from all over the world to Aviemore for the annual global ATTA Summit. Talking about why Scotland had the leading edge, ATTA president Shannon Stowell said: “Scotland’s inventive approaches, understanding of the ATTA’s shortand long-term vision, and its commitment to our mutual success gave this emerging adventure travel destination the edge.”

For delegates who want a similar challenge to those enjoyed by the ATTA delegates, nearby Rothiemurchus Estate has a wide range of thrilling activities. Some can be enjoyed with two feet firmly planted on the ground such as archery, wildlife photography and bush craft. However for something slightly more exhilarating a few feet up, the team offers pony trekking, safaris by Land Rover or quad biking, to name but a few. Even more thrilling activities for really adventurous teams include rafting, tubing, canoeing and even Treezone – a sky high assault course in the forest.

The estate, which stretches over 24,000 acres, is leading the way in environmental and wildlife conservation and takes its commitment to the Cairngorms National

Park, and educating visitors about the environment, seriously. This makes activities not only challenging, but inspiring and educational at the same time.

Teeing Off For those who are active but not seeking the same level of adrenalin, the game of golf is one of Scotland’s most valuable assets and an attraction for many business visitors, particularly as our larger golf hotels have expertise in hosting large meetings.

And with the new Castle Stuart Golf Links chosen to host the 2011 Barclays Scottish Open, teeing off will once more be top of the agenda. For many visitors, the superb range of golf resort hotels is a major attraction.

One best-loved conference hotel and golf destination is Turnberry. Following a multimillion pound renovation programme, the hotel boasts 198 luxury guest rooms with additional accommodation in 12 six and eight bedroom lodges located on the estate. With stimulating views and activities, this is one venue delegates or incentive groups will need little persuasion to attend. The world famous resort in Ayrshire offers a wealth of top class meeting facilities and specialises in bespoke boardroom experiences. Be it a meeting for a dozen or a conference for 200 delegates, Turnberry offers

Comrie Croft – An hour’s drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow, arrange a brainstorm in a Swedish kåta tent in open birch woodland. The woodburning stove in the centre of the tent is guaranteed to keep everyone warm even when temperatures outside are plummeting. www.comriecroft.com The Scottish Crannog Centre – Loch Tay, Perthshire – Organise a business event in the Crannog Centre’s unique reconstruction of an early Iron Age loch-dwelling. www.crannog.co.uk a room to suit any organisation’s event.

Similarly, meetings come with style at the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa which is set beside the iconic 17th fairway of St Andrew’s Old Course. Providing a spectacular backdrop for any corporate event, the resort boasts a range of conference and banqueting facilities including executive boardrooms, an elegant ballroom, and a self-contained conference centre providing a flexible, modern space supported by user-friendly technology. Purpose-built breakout rooms and a dedicated entrance to the centre make it an ideal venue for any event.

From golf to gorge walking, Scotland has every option for the team looking for inspiration and exhilaration at the same time.

With boundless fresh air and a plethora of beautiful remote landscapes and the wild outdoors, Scotland is perfect for organisations large and small that are looking to escape, appreciate the outdoors and get fighting fit at the same time. And with its superb accessibility with frequent UK and European flights and good train access from throughout the UK, the challenge is not how to get there, but never wanting to leave. L For more information www.conventionscotland.com

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 Park Inn ✓ Extras

Hotels you can rely on:

Over 20 hotels in the UK!

From

£25

Park Inn. Adding Color to LifeSM

DDR

From

£95

24 hour

Book a meeting and select your extras!

Park Inn Extras – DDR Select two items from the list below: Free high-speed Internet access Free LCD projector & screen Free bacon butties on arrival Free access to the main meeting room for set up the day before from 6pm (1) Free breakout room for up to 10 people (1) One up-graded tea & coffee break Terms and conditions (1) Free access to the main meeting room the day before and the free breakout room are subject to availability (2)

Park Inn Extras – 24 hour Select an additional item from the list below: 1 upgrade for every 10 rooms booked – subject to hotel facilities Up to 10% of the bedrooms can be cancelled the day before arrival with no cancellation charge!

Free car parking for 20% of the delegates (2) Complimentary canapes with your drink reception (max 50 pax)

Offer is valid for bookings made before the 31st December 2011.

Meeting can take place anytime in 2011. Subject to availability.

This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

Free car parking available at Cardiff North, Doncaster, Heathrow, Watford and York

Call 0161 436 1931 or visit parkinn.co.uk/meetings/extras

KENT

Discover exciting attractions for all

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Kent, known as the Garden of England, has breathtaking countryside dotted with orchards, vineyards, hop gardens, oast houses and more famously the White Cliffs of Dover The county is steeped in history and heritage, stuning gardens and world famous buildings including Leeds Castle where Henry VIII visited frequently in Tudor Times, and Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn.

The South East region offers a selection of remarkable conference venues in both new and traditional settings including modern hotels, purpose built conference centres and historic houses and well as unusual venues.

Kent offers some of the most recognised chain hotels such as the Marriott, Hilton, Holiday Inn, Ramada and QHotels. Towns range from the seaside resorts of Herne Bay, Folkestone, Dover and Hythe, these are great locations for team away days. More urban areas include Ashford, Maidstone, Canterbury and Tunbridge Wells, all easily accessible from the UK motorway network.

event is a success from beginning to end.

The friendly team at Kent Conference Bureau are dedicated to making life simpler by offering free, impartial, practical advice, and a written personalised proposal detailing rates and availability within one working day. In addition show rounds of venues within Kent can be arranged to ensure the site of your choice meets your specific needs and requirements.

The Kent Conference Bureau also arranges familiarisation visits, covering each area of Kent. The day offers conference and event organisers the opportunity to speak to venue staff, collate information and meet other service users. If you would like to be added to our mailing list so you are notified when and where the next familiarisation visit is taking place please do not hesitate to contact the team.

Help at hand Kent Conference Bureau is the official award winning organisation charged with promoting the county as a first class destination for conferences, incentives and events. It represents over 70 of the county’s top venues and suppliers and provides a variety of free services to help ensure each and every

Something different All Kent venues have something different to offer facilitators, speakers and delegates.

Your next meeting could really be the one your delegates remember.

If you are looking for something to freshen up your next meeting, why not enhance communication skills, improve

office relationships, boost moral or maybe just reward the workforce with some team building activities? Activities can vary from a quiet round of golf, a simple treasure hunt, a high wire forest adventure at Go Ape, to an adrenaline fuelled multi-activity day.

Catering for meetings and conferences is one area in which organisations can help to reduce their impact on the environment. Kent is keen to work towards a reduced carbon footprint and your contribution can help towards this.

Produced in Kent promotes local and seasonal produce and provides support and services to some of the Kent Conference Bureau venues.

Green issues Sustainability and green issues are now very much mainstream, with governments, businesses and individuals all involved.

The Kent Conference Bureau operates under an environmental policy within Maidstone Borough Council, and recognises that the conference and events industry can impact on the local and global environment. In order to show continued commitment wherever possible, Kent Conference Bureau recommends local suppliers with good records E

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Flexible syndicate rooms with great reputation to energise your team

Sandown Park – a leading conference venue in the South East

Located within the heart of Kent, Hamlets Hotel & Restaurant is ideally situated and easily accessible from major motorway links, major roads, rail and air connections.

Our fully trained meetings and events team are fundamental to the success of every event and will make sure that your meeting or event runs smoothly. The dedicated team will discuss your ideas at length, make you aware of the range of possibilities available and offer suggestions that would suit your requirements. Just one call will give you the latest information on room availability, room capacities and make a booking.

We offer a place to call your own at the end of a long day. All our 52 bedrooms are carefully designed and thoughtfully furnished to provide a comfortable haven that’s perfect for work and for relaxation.

Wake up to a traditional breakfast in the restaurant conservatory, and then relax at the

Sandown Park, Surrey’s historic racecourse, has built an enviable reputation as one of the leading event venues in the South East. Only 15 miles from London, the picturesque Esher venue offers outdoor event space as well as flexible indoor facilities with ample parking.

Sandown Park is experienced in hosting both corporate and private events and plays host exhibitions, conferences, meetings, company dinners, Christmas parties, product launches, training, and team building events, activity

end of the day with a fine dinner.

As we recognise the need to arrange meetings at short notice with fewer than seven delegates, there are areas at Hamlets Hotel & Restaurant that are accessible for this, subject to availability.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Simon Springate hotelmanager@ hamletshotel.com Natasha Clarke events@hamletshotel.com Address: 802 London Road, Larkfield, Maidstone, Kent ME20 6HJ Tel: 01732 846858 Fax: 01732 846786 www.hamletshotel.com

For all your Professional Events and Conference Needs

Kent Enterprise House Conferences

Meetings

Hospitality

Bookings for up to 80 people — Professional Catering Facilities Fully Air Conditioned — Free Adjacent parking Equipped with the latest technology — Wi fi Computer Suite and LCD projector

www.sekgroup.org.uk Phone: 01227 844 466 Fax: 01227 200 120 Email: info@sekgroup.org.uk Herne Bay, Kent within easy access of the A299 Thanet Way

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE Volume | 18.7

days and celebrations.

As well as its award winning cuisine and stunning racecourse views, this unusual Surrey venue offers a golf course, go karting, skiing, parking for 3,000 vehicles and even has its own hotel accommodation on-site. If you are looking for an attractive venue for an event, odds are we’ve got it!

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01372 464338 sandown.events@ thejockeyclub.co.uk www.sandown.co.uk

KENT E for using recyclable materials, sustainable products and environmental policies in place.

When placing your enquiry, feel free to ask for more information about the sustainable and greener venues in Kent.

With new high speed trains able to run at up to 140 mph through Kent, rail connections have significantly reduced journey times across the region. With a trip from London to Ashford taking on average 37mins (previously 80 minutes) and to Canterbury taking 60mins (previously 100 minutes), Kent can easily be reached for your next meeting or event.

New developments Best Western Dover Marina Hotel & Spa is a recently refurbished seaside gem on the waterfront, opened under new ownership this spring. Located on Marine Parade, and commanding stunning views across the Dover seafront, it is an ideal conference or meeting venue.

The hotel has three well appointed meeting rooms with up to date facilities. For meeting delegates seeking luxurious accommodation, fine dining and panoramic views, and a hotel with exceptional charm and character, one should look no further then the Best Western Dover Marina Hotel & Spa. Late autumn 2011, will see the opening of a 55,000 sq ft (5,200m2) events and exhibition venue at Bluewater. The Bluewater Events Venue will be the UK’s focal point for retail and leisure led events, shows and exhibitions. It will complement Bluewater’s retail offer whilst meeting the continued demand for specialist consumer events in a purpose-built environment.

The Clive Emson Conference Centre at the Kent Event Centre is a £1.2 million conversion of the old Stanley Cornwallis Building. The facilities opened mid-June 2011 and now include a clear span exhibition hall of over 1,700 sq metres and three conference rooms with offices and catering. The facilities can accommodate fine dining and cabaret style for up to 1,000 people and conferences with breakout rooms for 10 to 2,000 people.

New for 2011, the Maiden’s Tower is a wonderful hospitality venue at historic Leeds Castle. Set on the castle island, surrounded by a moat and 500 acres of tranquil parkland, the Maiden’s Tower provides peace, privacy and security for residential and day conferences, meetings and corporate hospitality.

The venue is entirely self-contained and separate from the areas used by castle visitors so delegates have exclusive use throughout the day. The estate also offers a wide range of team building and leisure pursuits to complement the business activities. The scenic nine-hole, par 33 golf course is a popular choice and there are also opportunities for Segway motorised tours, laser clay shooting, falconry, quad biking, hot air balloon flights and Go Ape – a forest adventure where teams can climb trees, cross rope bridges and zip wire to the ground. Additional team

building activity programmes can be tailored to meet guests’ specific requirements.

New venues to join Kent Conference Bureau The British pub has always been at the heart of the community but local firms are recognising that it can also be at the heart of the business community, the perfect venue for lunches, meetings, seminars and conferences.

Pubs with restaurants and function rooms offer a variety of bespoke packages at competitive prices, including audio visual and conference equipment. Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewer, offers a selection of venues across Kent. Each has its own unique characteristics that can turn an average meeting into an inspiring and memorable experience.

The Dog & Bear in Lenham has a function suite with its own bar and patio garden.

A full bar and catering service is available, from sandwiches and finger buffets to three-course meals, and the room accommodates approximately 50 delegates.

The century-old Marine Hotel sits on a striking clifftop location on the Tankerton Slopes. The Galleon Suite accommodates up to 150 delegates, the Maunsell Suite is suitable for up to 80 people and the lounge up to 50.

The Parklands Suite at Conningbrook Hotel, Ashford, can accommodate 68 for a sit-down lunch and 120 for buffet-style events. The adaptable room can split into two separate, soundproofed rooms, transforming it into The Garden Room and The Orchard Room.

A second function room, Little Burton, provides a comfortable and hospitable conference venue which accommodates 60 in theatre mode and 30 in boardroom style.

Built in 1874, the Crown Inn in Chislehurst has a comfortable 36-seat restaurant, seven en-suite rooms and a ground floor function room suitable for business meetings and conferences, equipped with its own separate bar and can accommodate up to 70 people.

Flexible venues The picturesque early 18th century Royal Hotel, Deal, offers excellent hospitality, with 18 en-suite bedrooms, a stylish restaurant, function and meeting rooms and a pleasant bar and patio overlooking the English Channel.

Two rooms are available for functions: the Map Room, which accommodates 40 guests, and the Reading Room, with a capacity of 16. These rooms can also be combined.

Gillingham Football Club’s purpose-built Priestfield Conference & Banqueting venue is the largest of its kind in the South East and provides a unique setting for meetings and events. The Great Hall can cater for up to 700 delegates theatre style (500 for a banquet), and there are a variety of smaller suites and rooms with flexible layouts to meet clients’ needs. Particularly impressive are the Board Room and the Piano Bar. Rooms are fully airconditioned with wireless broadband access,

Venues Directory

Conferences & Events

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Request a copy of the brand new A5 Conference Venues Directory, which contains all the contact information and venue capacities you need when searching for a conference venue in Kent.

You can get your free copy by e-mailing info@kentconferencebureau.co.uk or by logging onto www.kentconferencebureau.co.uk

audio-visual facilities and natural daylight.

London Golf Club prides itself on creating simple elegant solutions that enhance and elevate every event. From the moment you pass through the gates and wind your way down our one-mile drive you know you have arrived somewhere special. With the perfect balance between excellence and effortless comfort, you can relax and enjoy stylish surroundings in a world attended to by our courteous and professional team.

The club offers a wide range of meeting rooms, all flooded with natural light and equipped with the latest audio-visual technology. The clubhouse has complimentary wireless broadband and meeting rooms have access to outside space where up to 170 delegates can enjoy views over the fabulous Jack Nicklaus designed golf courses.

The Bexleyheath Marriott Hotel is located in north Kent and in close proximity to A2, M25 and M20. The hotel offers contemporary styling, great people, excellent service and within 10 minutes of Bluewater and Ebbsfleet and 20 minutes to The O2 and Greenwich. The venue has 142 air conditioned guest rooms, 9 conference and banqueting rooms suitable for up to 250 delegates, all with natural daylight, Copper Restaurant, Planters Bar, swimming pool and gym.

North Kent’s best kept secret The University of Kent in Canterbury is thrilled to have been awarded Group Travel Organiser’s ‘Best University Accommodation for Groups’ for the fourth year running. The award was presented to the University of Kent team by travel-writer and broadcaster Simon Calder at a prestigious ceremony at London’s Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel in June.

Set in 450 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds overlooking the historic city of Canterbury, the university offers some 3,750 rooms on campus. Groups can choose either self-catering flats (each sleeping 5/6 people) or single standard or en-suite rooms in halls of residence on a room-only or B&B basis.

The university has many conference rooms available for hire and can accommodate up to 1,200 delegates theatre style. L For more information Tel: 01622 602485 info@kentconferencebureau.co.uk www.kentconferencebureau.co.uk

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‘We Send Anything, Anywhere!’

Pack & Send are the market leading retail packaging and freight forwarding business founded in Australia in 1993. Our network of stores provide specialist packaging and freight forwarding solutions to a broad range of business and domestic customers. We are unique in what we do, and are now expanding across the UK

1. Experience and Reputation

• Established in 1993, Pack & Send is an an Australian market leader that is a growing success in the UK too.

• Our ‘no limits’ culture has resulted in an enviable reputation.

• ‘We Send Anything, Anywhere!’

7. Profit Potential •

transaction values.

8. Low Investment Entry Level

• From £100,000 the Pack & Send business is one of the most affordable retail franchises on the market.

9. The Power of the Brand •

power and customer pulling power and assists you to build your business.

2. Our Niche

• We exclusively dominate our niche market of packing and sending fragile, large, awkward, and valuable items in the multibillion pound Freight Logistics sector.

• We have real USPs and no direct competition!

3. Our Customers

• Everyone is a potential customer of Pack & Send.

• We service some of the world’s largest companies through to small businesses and householders and tourists.

4. Variety and Enjoyment

• Our store owners tell us they love the variety and business trading hours.

• Every day in a Pack & Send business is different and exciting.

5. Impressive Growth

• Our rate of sales growth is the envy of the industry and illustrates the value our services bring to the marketplace.

6. Comprehensive Support

• Our unique retail model is underpinned by a business system that has been honed to the highest level of proficiency.

• First class support and resources.

Now

Expanding across the UK

To find out more about our UK opportunities call our Franchise Development Team on 0118 958 4628 or email them at franchises@packsend.co.uk www.packsend.co.uk

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sector that you understand or have experience in. It may be that a completely new area suits you much better.

Make sure that you thoroughly investigate any franchise opportunity that you are seriously considering. Look further into the franchise and get as much information as possible. The franchisor should be transparent about success, where in the country it has performed well and also where it hasn’t. Ask to speak to a number of other franchisees not just the one the franchisor recommends.

They should be open and honest enough to allow you to speak to any one of their franchisees to ensure you get the information you need to make an informed decision.

DEVIL’S IN THE DETAIL Those franchisors that have been accredited by the bfa have had to go through stringent tests on their franchise, so you know that it operates in an ethical way.

However, as with any business contract make sure you read the small print and get legal advice if required. Franchise agreements are generally very large documents and can be complicated.

Bear in mind that it’s not a quick-win.

Although franchises are generally more successful than other business types, it is by no means a license to print money. It takes a considerable amount of hard work and determination, but preparation is key and if you spend the time initially gathering as much information as you can, you will eliminate the possibility of making the wrong investment.

CAREERS

a different path

What are the things to consider when investing in a franchise, asks Tom Endean from the British Franchise Association As we tentatively head towards a lift in the economic climate and the early signs of increased lending, particularly amongst the SME sector, so general business confidence is on the up. Such indicators are prompting many people to re-evaluate their circumstances and, particularly, their careers and lifestyle and causing them to explore the franchising sector.

WHAT TO CONSIDER Making the decision to become a franchisee, however, is only just the beginning of the journey – with the UK franchise market consisting of 900 franchise brands, the path to choosing a franchise appropriate to your individual circumstances can be beset with indecision. Franchising is not a quick-fix solution nor is it a part-time hobby.

You need to have the right temperament, enthusiasm and backing to get started, as with any business. Franchising encompasses a whole multitude of business disciplines

and markets and consequently should be entered into with eyes wide open.

Do your sums and find out realistically what funding you have available or potentially available. If you will need to raise finance it is worth noting that there are three major banks that the bfa accredits because they understand and specialise in franchising. Ask to speak to a specialist franchise department or advisor.

Look at any lifestyle hurdles. Ask the question “Do I fit this business model?”

For example, if you are considering investing in a restaurant, are you able to work nights and weekends? It sounds logical, but be sure of the chosen field.

Make sure you do your research. Market research is vital, take time to look at the different types of business models available to you, because there are so many out there. Keep an open mind about what industry sector you are interested in rather than simply choosing a business

WHERE TO GO TO GET STARTED Many of these elements will be covered within the range of seminars and conference programme available at the the National Franchise Exhibition taking place at the NEC in Birmingham from 31 September - 1 October in Birmingham. Topics include: an introduction to franchising; families in franchising; hands-on franchises; executives in franchising; and growing your own business. Those new to the franchise industry will also benefit from the Franchise Starting Point where industry experts, consultants, lawyers, bankers and franchisors will all be on hand to offer free oneto-one advice. The Franchisee Panel is where visitors will be able to find out the realities of making the move from being employed to becoming a franchise owner – franchisees from various backgrounds will detail first hand their experience of making the transition.

This robust business model, fuelled by dedicated individuals, encompassing many different skills and backgrounds, opens up countless opportunities for people looking for a new start. Becoming a franchisee is a serious business option and one that requires hard work, lots of enthusiasm, dedication and business acumen. That is not to say that there isn’t a suitable franchise business out there for everyone, but you do need to choose carefully. L

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Franchsing

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SHIPMENT SPECIALISTS

A Franchise Opportunity that Really Delivers

With new PACK & SEND stores now open in Bristol and the buoyant London market and more franchise licence applications in progress than ever before, the new financial year looks likely to be a step-change year for the UK business PACK & SEND is still new to the UK – the first store opened in Reading just over two years ago – but already it is a great success and is growing faster than ever. The parent business, which has been trading in its native Australia since 1993, is currently in the process of expanding into other countries across the globe, however, it is the UK that is the most developed of these and is fast becoming the model for growth in new territories. Just look at some of the statistics: • UK revenues for the business have been up to four-fold ahead of the original business plan • Like-for-like revenues over 50 per cent higher in the second year of trading • Gross margins ahead of plan and increasing in year three • Average transaction values among the highest in the logistics market • Blue-chip corporate accounts secured to support the UK store network.

With new PACK & SEND stores now open in Bristol and the buoyant London market and more franchise licence applications in progress than ever before, the new financial year looks likely to be a stepchange year for the UK business.

PACK & SEND UK CEO Mike Ryan, is delighted with the first two years of trading: “All our stores have hit the ground running with sales enquiries from our website and the help of our local marketing support programme. Our first store has shown over 50 per cent growth in revenue over year one. If anything, we seem to have underestimated the UK market!”

“We are particularly pleased to now be open in London, as we know from our current enquiries that there is huge demand here and we have been in the frustrating position of virtually turning business away!” continued Ryan. “The issue has been finding good quality sites in the areas that we want to locate, but we have been working closely with our franchisee and have secured a great location close to Earls Court.”

The PACK & SEND Business PACK & SEND is a unique business proposition and have genuine USPs to underpin their franchise model: • Specialists in packing items for safe shipment – regardless of how large or fragile they are • The widest range of shipping options to ensure that they can offer a choice E

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE Volume | 18.7

We are particularly pleased to now be open in London, as we know from our current enquiries that there is huge demand here and we have been in the frustrating position of virtually turning business away! – Mike Ryan, CEO.

Franchising

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“but if you have just bought a hard top for your sports car on eBay that needs collecting, securely packing and shipping to the US – as one of our customers recently did – then we are unique. Who else is there for you to call? With car parts being listed for sale on eBay every ten seconds, that’s a big niche.”

The PACK & SEND proposition is also perfect for businesses: • Distribute fragile, electrically sensitive or time critical IT equipment between sites or to remote users.

• Facilitate exhibitions, conferences or demonstration events.

• Safely deliver essential parts, samples, proofs or prototypes anywhere.

• Manage high-end office moves.

• Deliver personal items to fulfill probate obligations for lawyers and solicitors handling client’s wills.

Our customers treasure the items that we send for them and want to know that they receive the highest levels of care. PACK & SEND’s packing expertise, combined with our unequalled Gold Cover unlimited value loss or damage protection, gives the unique peace of mind for individuals or businesses of all sizes.

E of cost-effective solutions that meet virtually any deadline or budget • Comprehensive loss and damage cover that protects a customer’s shipment – no matter what the value.

They make a simple promise – ‘We Send Anything, Anywhere!’ – and all the stores pride themselves on delivering the highest levels of customer service. Their end-toend ownership of collection, packing and final delivery anywhere in the world makes them uniquely easy to do business with.

We Send Anything, Anywhere!

At PACK & SEND, stores can ship anything, however, they specialise in handling items that are: • Fragile – laptops, electronic equipment and glassware and china • Large – trade show equipment, car parts and musical instruments • Awkward – architectural models, chandeliers and statues • Valuable – artwork, antiques, timepieces and collectables

“If you have a fragile, large, awkward or valuable item for shipping, then there are very few options available other than investing time and money in personally accompanying the item from door to door – and this is rarely practical or cost-effective,” explains Tony Fowles, PACK & SEND UK general manager.

“PACK & SEND can resolve the issue at a fraction of the cost, and with the care and attention that you would give the goods if you were transporting them yourself.

“Our customers treasure the items that we send for them and want to know that they receive the highest levels of care. PACK & SEND’s packing expertise, combined with our unequalled Gold Cover unlimited value loss or damage protection, give the unique peace of mind for individuals or businesses of all sizes.”

Niche Market PACK & SEND addresses many niche markets and creates a totally new market at the same time.

“At its simplest, we offer an easy-to-use postal service with a friendly face,” says Ryan,

Why Choose A PACK & SEND Franchise?

PACK & SEND is looking for highly motivated enthusiasts who share the vision of providing a no limits service to their customers and who want to benefit from a robust business model that is proving as successful here as it has been for 120+ shops in Australia.

We have territory opportunities across the UK and increasing levels of business being generated between stores in the UK network.

PACK & SEND franchisees benefit from: • High gross profit margins • Rapidly cash generative business model • Proven business results – our first UK store showed net profits in year one • Distinctive identity that stands out on the high street and is increasingly being established as a global brand.

• High value franchisee support services – initial training is intensive, including at least four weeks hands-on work before launch and comprehensive in-store support after it. We will even work in your store with you for the first weeks of trading to help you build a rewarding and successful business.

• Regular customer web leads directly into your e-mail inbox • Low staffing levels and B2B trading hours • Low levels of non-perishable stock • Franchisees that actually enjoy what they do.

PACK & SEND requires a target investment of around £120k, which is estimated to get your store to break even and hence self-financing from then on. They have relationships with several high street banks and can provide detailed advice on market assessments and business planning. L For more information Call Mike Ryan, Graeme Rhodes or Tony Fowles on 0118 9584628 to discuss how PACK & SEND could be the opportunity you are looking for, or e-mail franchises@packsend.co.uk with your contact details. More information is available at www.packsend.co.uk

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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For more information please call John Warren, Franchise Sales Director on

0844 846 0031

or email me at franchisesales@driverhire.co.uk Quoting ‘GB611’

Alternatively register your interest at: www.driverhire.co.uk/franchiseopportunities bfa Franchisor of the Year 2006, bfa Franchisee of the Year 2004 bfa Franchisor of the Year finalists 2004,2006,2007,2008,2009,2010,2011

Looking for an award-winning B2B management franchise opportunity?

Our business

Our offer to you

Established for over 25 years, Driver Hire is one of the UK's leading recruitment agencies. We specialise in providing commercial drivers and logistics staff to a wide range of customers in the private and public sectors. Every day our 95-strong franchise network supplies over 3,000 personnel for both temporary and permanent assignments.

Demand for our services is growing strongly as the economy recovers and employers increasingly recognise the financial benefits of a flexible workforce. This is reflected in our network sales which are currently over 25% ahead of the prior year.

Our franchisees Our franchise owners come from a range of backgrounds including finance, sales, transport, retailing and the armed forces. However what they all share is a real passion for excellent customer service and the commitment and desire to build a successful, profitable franchised business.

To find out more please call

0844 846 0031

or email franchisesales@driverhire.co.uk and quote ’GB611’

• • • • • • • •

An established market-leading brand Your own postcode-defined territory A proven and successful business process Comprehensive initial and ongoing training Over 50 experienced and knowledgeable Head Office support staff National customer contracts with leading companies Our unique software package for operational efficiency National marketing and promotional campaigns

Investment & Rewards

• • • • • •

Average forecast sales revenue per franchise of £710,000 in 2010/11 (compared with franchise sector average of £335,000*)

Net profit potential in excess of £100,000 Attractive re-sale values upon exit A low fixed-cost business model Entry level investment from £35,000 Assisted purchase scheme for new franchise territories *NatWest / bfa annual franchise survey

A genuine business opportunity “I was looking for a genuine business opportunity and I found it with Driver Hire. For the last four years I have achieved sales well in excess of £2m and I am confident of doing so again in 2011/12.”

Grant Wilson

Driver Hire franchise owner and former accountant

Different backgrounds … one thing in common – all successful Driver Hire franchise owners

AGENCY DRIVER OF THE YEAR

WINNERS

2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008

www.driverhire.co.uk

EVENT PREVIEW

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THE NEXT STEP IN THE WORLD OF WORK The National Franchise Exhibition, taking place on 30 September to 1 October, is the perfect place for those new to franchising as it offers everything you need to know under one roof Most of us at some time consider a change of careers and lifestyle. When that moment arrives, running a business of our own is often an appealing option. The freedom and opportunities available to those who are self-employed can seem attractive.

Starting up can be daunting and full of uncertainty but these elements can be overcome by choosing to set up as a franchisee, with the support and backing of an established brand.

AN EXPANDING INDUSTRY Franchising is well proven as a way to maximise prospects of creating a profitable, long term business. As a result it is an industry that is continuing to expand significantly in this country. According to the latest survey by NatWest and the British Franchise Association (bfa), in 2010 franchised businesses in the UK increased their total turnover by £600 million (five per cent) to £12.4bn. The number of franchise systems operating in the UK has grown to 897 over the past year, increasing the number of franchise units to 36,900. An extra 56,000 jobs have been created, taking total employment in the sector to 521,000.

Brian Smart, director general of the bfa, commented: “Yet again franchising has demonstrated its inherent tenacity and stability, despite a tough climate last year.

This means many more sustainable business start-ups and jobs have been created by ethical franchising – further helping the UK economy get back on its feet.”

It is an attractive prospect but with so many options available to suit everyone, researching the choices available and finding a franchise that suits individual requirements can be a challenge. the exhibition The National Franchise Exhibition, taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 30 September to 1 October, is the perfect place for those new to franchising. It offers everything under one roof – from a vast range of exhibitors to an extensive free conference programme and informative features.

Showcasing more than 150 proven franchise concepts, from travel sales, web design and recruitment to cleaning, food and drink, and home improvement, the event will provide a superb overview of the business opportunities available. There will be franchise ventures to suit every budget, lifestyle and skill E

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Franchising

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EVENT PREVIEW

The popular Franchisee Panel returns with even more opportunities.

Visitors will hear from franchisees about the reality of the transition period from being employee to a self-employed franchise owner.

E available at the event so aspiring entrepreneurs can find the business to match their interests. They can also learn all they need to help them decide whether franchising and a particular franchise is the right path for them by speaking to banks, accountants, solicitors, franchising consultants and experts from the British Franchise Association (bfa).

EXHIBITORS This year exhibiting companies will include Action Coach, Bar Sport, Cash Generator, Complete Weed Control, Dream Doors, Envirocare, Fonehouse, Gautier, Go Cruise, McDonalds, Subway and The Best of.

The National Franchise Exhibition is exclusively supported by the bfa and only features franchise companies that have met the Association’s code of ethics. This means visitors can be confident that the franchise opportunities presented to them are an ethical entity within the UK market.

Paul Bickley, a toolmaker from Cannock who visited the event in 2010, said: “I’m expecting to be made redundant so I’m learning about franchising as an option. There are a lot of ideas and this leaves me with plenty to consider.”

Paul Westwood, a freelance building surveyor from Burton on Trent, agreed: “Work is quiet so I am looking for an alternative income.

There is a good range of ideas, plenty to see and consider. Everyone is helpful and friendly. I’d recommend visiting here to anyone.” features and initiatives Exclusive to The National Franchise Exhibition is an extensive free conference programme which includes seminars by the bfa. During these sessions, a panel of experts will cover all aspects of franchising including how to find funding, who you should go to for legal advice and what a franchisor looks for in a franchisee. In addition, there will be a series of seminars on key franchise-related topics including growing your own business; high-level investment franchising; franchise resales; executives in franchising; hands-on franchising; and families in franchising.

For those uncertain what business might be right for them, professionals at the Careers Clinic will work with visitors to define their goals and objectives in order to build a clear, focused and realistic career plan. This will help them prepare for their next step in the world of work.

The Franchise Starting Point will be dedicated to helping visitors completely new to the concept of franchising find ideas to suit them. Franchising experts including the bfa team, specialists

Event Registration The exhibition is open from 10am each day, closing at 5pm on Friday 30 September and 4pm on Saturday 1 October 2011. To register for the National Franchise Exhibition in Birmingham, call +44 (0)844 257 8668 visit www.franchiseinfo.co.uk Callers can purchase tickets by credit card for £8 each or £7 each for two or more. Admission on the door is £15.

Visitors can, however gain FREE admission by using the promotional code GOVBUSJULY when they register on the website.

For the latest news and updates about The National Franchise Exhibition, follow the exhibition on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ukfranchising and via #NFEB, join The Franchise Exhibitions Group on Linked In or become a fan of the FranchiseInfo group on Facebook.

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE Volume | 18.7

from leading banks, accountants, lawyers as well as current franchisees and franchisors will be on hand to provide visitors with all the help and advice they need as they consider their options and prepare to develop a successful franchise business.

The popular and inspiring Franchisee Panel returns with even more sessions and opportunities. Visitors will hear from franchisees about the reality of the transition period from being employee to a self-employed franchise owner. These panel sessions enable visitors to gain answers to all their questions and find out the pros and cons of becoming a franchisee from those directly involved.

Buying an existing franchised business, rather than starting with a new opportunity, is an alternative that may suit many prospective franchisees. Experts will be on hand at the Franchise Resales Pavilion to advise visitors on what is available. The Business Plan Clinic, sponsored by Lloyds TSB Commercial, provides the opportunity to learn all about securing funding and to receive professional advice on drafting a business plan – a key starting point to developing a successful business.

Following its success last year, the award-winning Creation Station returns to the show with its Children’s Activity Centre.

Visitors can make their trip to The National Franchise Exhibition a real family day out, as little ones can explore their creative side at the free of charge Activity Centre, along with a parent, while a partner can discover the franchise options at the show.

ONE-STOP-SHOP Adrian Goodsell, franchise exhibitions manager at Venture Marketing Group, organisers of The National Franchise Exhibition, sums up the show: “We’ve tried to capture all the essential elements that a potential franchisee needs when taking their first steps in the industry. We received good feedback from visitors last year, and hope those who come to the show this year will find their visit useful and inspiring.” L

Look after your gas boiler for just 40p a day Gas-elec – leaders in the field of combined gas and electrical safety & servicing - now offers boiler service and complete cover for only £140 a year. The perfect solution for landlords and homeowners. For less than 40p a day our heat-care service will provide: n Full breakdown cover for 12 months n Parts and labour included in all repairs n Annual servicing reminders n Local friendly engineers ...and much more!

For the past 15 years gas-elec has kept over one million homes safe and warm. We are experts in the field of gas and electrical safety & servicing so to find out more give our team a call.

0800 587 9999 or email heatcare@gas-elec.co.uk www.heat-care.co.uk

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Celebrating 15 years in the franchise sector

Start driving your future forwards with Mac Tools

Established in 1996 gas-elec is now one of the fastest growing franchises of its kind in the UK. With over 130 franchisees operating from 18 regional offices we carry out over 120,000 safety inspections a year ensuring over a million homes across the UK have safe gas and electricity supplies.

We are the only service provider to offer customers combined gas and electrical inspection services.

We currently have franchise opportunities for people with experience in gas, electrical, heating, etc. As a gas-elec franchisee you will receive all the training you need to become an accredited gas-elec engineer.

Our recently launched g-fix service also offers great opportunities for those with a repairs or DIY background.

You would operate from your own liveried van and we help with all the ordering, payment

Being a Mac Tools franchisee is a life-changing opportunity. It gives you the freedom and potential to go as far and high as your abilities and hard work take you.

As a leading automotive tool retailer, you will benefit from being part of StanleyBlack & Decker, the owners of the world famous Stanley and Black & Decker brands, as you build your business in your protected territory.

You don’t need previous knowledge of tools – although this would be of benefit, most important is the drive and passion to run your own business.

You’ll soon be out there on the road doing it for yourself, building your own success,

chasing and invoicing, giving you complete peace of mind.

If you are thinking about setting up your own business, now is an exciting time to join gas-elec. As well as an excellent reputation within the safety inspection and servicing field we also offer a range of innovative energy-saving products.

profiting from your own efforts – the master of your fate.

But you’ll never be alone.

Because, whatever you do, you’ll always have the power of the Mac Tools team behind you. Giving you world-class products to sell, offering you the best in sales and product training, providing sales-driven marketing support, and always developing innovative strategies to help you grow your business.

So think of us as your personal pit crew, then go out there and win.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 08450 600060 franchise@mactools.co.uk www.mactools.co.uk

FOR MORE INFORMATION Give us a call on 0800 015 2030 or visit our website www.gas-elec.co.uk

A future with an award winning lettings franchise Even though 98 per cent of Belvoir franchise owners weren’t letting or estate agents before they started with us, our 126 franchises that had been trading for a year or more achieved an average turnover of £158,814 per office in 2010.

A Belvoir franchise offers a unique opportunity to build an asset for the future, coupled with good earning potential and the opportunity to work for yourself but not by yourself.

You will require enthusiasm, a determination to succeed and good communication skills. Our intense training course will help equip you with everything you need to know to run a successful lettings agency. Once you are up and running, Belvoir supports its franchise owners with a proven business formula and is

committed to providing extensive training, with ongoing support.

The minimum investment (cash in the bank) starts from around £30,000 with the remaining amount being funded by bank lending (subject to status).

With the country in recession, house prices falling, more investment into buy to let and government stating they expect the number of privately rented properties to increase from 7.5 million to 10 million properties between now and 2020, now is the time to join an awardwinning business model.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01476 570000 Fax: 01476 584902 franchising@ belvoirlettings.com www.belvoirfranchise.com

An award-winning B2B management franchise Driver Hire is a B2B management franchise and a market leader in the supply of drivers and logistics staff to the private and public sectors. Established for over 25 years and a regular bfa award winner, Driver Hire is acknowledged as a key player in the UK’s lucrative £27bn recruitment sector.

A Driver Hire franchise provides you with a unique opportunity to run your own recruitment business within our established and highly successful franchise network.

We are the UK’s leading supplier of drivers and logistics staff to the private and public sectors. Our network of over 90 branches provides workers, mainly on temporary assignments, to a wide variety of customers ranging from international hauliers and major retailers to builders merchants, parcel delivery companies and local authorities.

To become a successful Driver Hire franchisee you don’t need

any previous knowledge or experience in the transport or recruitment sectors – our training will take care of that. Far more important are good people skills, all-round commercial acumen and the self-motivation and desire to build a successful and profitable operation generating net earnings of £100,000 plus.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 0844 8460031 Fax: 0844 8460002 franchisesales@ driverhire.co.uk www.driverhire.co.uk/ franchiseopportunities

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Lloyds TSB can help you with your franchise plans.

Whether you’re buying into a franchise or franchising your own business, it’s important to have the right kind of support and guidance before you take the next step.

That’s why we have a team of specially trained franchise managers who have a wealth of knowledge, and can offer you practical support and guidance.

To find out more call:

0800 681 6078 lloydstsb.com/franchising

Calls may be monitored or recorded. Lloyds TSB Commercial is a trading name of Lloyds TSB Bank plc and Lloyds TSB Scotland plc and serves customers with an annual turnover of up to £15m.

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority under numbers 119278 and 191240 respectively.

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Franchising

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Franchising to boost small business growth Businesses have faced unparalleled challenges over the last couple of years but with the UK finally moving out of the recession, now is the time for people to capitalise on opportunities for growth There are many investment options available for those of us who haven’t got their own winning business idea. Well established franchises should be high on your shopping list. A franchise business should already have been tried and tested and when you add initial training and ongoing support from the franchisor it is easy to understand why so many view franchising as an attractive alternative to setting up their own independent business.

If you are considering investing in a franchise then those that have a successful track record over several years and that have prospered through the ups and downs of the economic environment are best placed to offer you the opportunity to build a

investing in a franchise. These are must attend events for people seriously thinking about starting on their franchising journey. For further details and booking information visit the www.franchise-seminars.biz website.

Asking questions Speak to as many existing franchisees in the brand you are researching as possible. Ask for a list of all the franchisees and don’t let the franchisor cherry pick who you speak to. By asking a series of carefully chosen questions you should be able to build up a picture of the franchise and how supportive they are to their network. Existing franchisees will be one of the best sources of information to help you decide upon the viability of the Richard Holden

Self-employment can be a daunting prospect, however, hard work, determination and a large amount of common sense will take you along way towards achieving your business goals. successful business of your own. The benefits of a supportive franchisor should not be under-estimated. A knowledgeable and experienced franchisor can share ideas and guide you through your business lifecycle.

Benefits Belonging to a network of businesses has many benefits for franchisees including brand recognition, greater buying power and proven marketing strategies. The opportunity to share best practice and to talk through your problems with other franchisees is a valuable resource that should not be overlooked. Independent business owners often find it a lonely existence with no one to turn to when they need help.

The choice of franchises can sometimes be bewildering. Thorough research is essential to select the right franchise for you. Banks with a specialist franchise department are often a good source of free, independent advice. I also recommend that you attend one of the British Franchise Association’s franchisee seminars to gain a better understanding of owning a franchise.

Lloyds TSB also sponsors a series of free evening educational seminars held throughout the UK about the benefits and pitfalls of

business opportunity and whether it is likely to generate a good return on your investment.

Financial projections for the business are another vital assessment tool. Most franchisors will provide you with illustrations of possible trading performance, however, it is up to you to dig deeper. Find out what the financial projections are based upon and the assumptions that have been used. Do the figures reflect the average performance of existing franchisees and if so are they regularly updated? Figures produced a couple of years ago before the recession may bear little resemblance to what franchisees are likely to achieve now. You need to research the local market conditions when compiling your own projections and it is always prudent to get an experienced accountant to check them over before you present them to the bank.

Clear vision Before signing on the dotted line ensure that there is a clear vision for developing the franchise and you are happy with the direction it is heading. Get the franchise agreement checked and explained to you by an experienced franchise solicitor before you make the commitment to invest. The Lloyds Banking Group offers a franchise

agreement review service in conjunction with a British Franchise Association affiliated solicitor at a discounted rate.

It’s worth remembering that no franchise can offer you a guarantee of success.

Some franchises provide better investment opportunities than others. Choosing a well established franchise model will give you a head start. Self-employment can be a daunting prospect, however, hard work, determination and a large amount of common sense will take you along way towards achieving your business goals.

People who have a sound capital base and strong business plan are well placed to take advantage of the available finance. We continue to approve 80 per cent of customers’ requests for loans and overdrafts. Lloyds TSB Commercial has made clear commitments not only to lend, but to encourage enterprise. L

Richard Holden heads up the Lloyds Banking Group Franchise Unit and is an expert speaker at franchise exhibitions and seminars. He also regularly features in the national and trade press. The Lloyds Banking Group has franchise managers based throughout the UK to offer support to both franchisors and franchisees.

Lloyds TSB and Bank of Scotland are affiliate members of the British Franchise Association.

For more information Richard Holden head of franchising Lloyds Banking Group Tel: 0800 6816078 www.lloydstsb.com/franchising

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

39

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VAT LEGISLATION

LET’S TALK TAX Peter Hore from Indirect Tax Services talks through potential changes to VAT legislation that could affect the public sector During 2011, several potentially significant VAT discussion papers or consultations have come out of the European Commission. But do these papers and consultations mean anything? This article seeks to consider this question and initially focuses upon one document in particular, ‘VAT in the public sector and exemptions in the public interest,’ released in March this year.

As a member of the European Community, the UK, like all other member states, is obliged to implement into national legislation the VAT law determined by the European Parliament. The current iteration of the EU VAT legislation is the VAT Directive (2006/112/EC).

Where the UK has failed to properly implement the relevant EU VAT legislation, a taxpayer in the UK can rely on either UK legislation or EU legislation, whichever is the most advantageous.

The principle of EU VAT law is that businesses must generally charge VAT on their supplies to customers and account for it to the national fisc. Where they charge VAT, they are entitled to recover most of the VAT incurred on their costs. Generally it is the end consumer who suffers the financial burden of VAT. There are certain notable exceptions: supplies such as insurance, and banking. The insurers and bankers do not generally charge their customers VAT and can therefore not recover the bulk of the VAT on their costs.

Another situation where a VAT registered trader cannot recover VAT on its costs is where the costs relate to non business activities.

Where local authorities, schools, government bodies amongst others incur VAT in relation to their public duties, that is deemed non business and there is no right to recovery of VAT incurred on their costs under EU Law. SECTION THIRTY THREE Parliament in the UK has incorporated into UK VAT legislation a provision not found in EU VAT law. This is the well known basis of VAT recovery in the UK public sector, namely section 33.

The European Commission has been aware for some time of this anomaly in UK VAT law. In view of the fact that the breach only applies to public bodies, means to date it has not been overly concerned about distortion of competition within the EU, and has to date adopted a light touch.

However, the Commission intrinsically dislikes turning a blind eye to breaches of the European VAT system. For that reason, it has chosen now to consider what, if anything, should be done about the above anomaly and commissioned the aforementioned report

which runs to a jaw dropping 192 pages.

The Commission is advised in that document that the general exemption for public bodies does, in fact, lead to a distortion of competition in two ways.

Firstly, where public bodies cannot recover input VAT, there is a financial disincentive to outsource services, as VAT will be incurred on costs currently attracting no VAT, such as wages.

Secondly, where the public body ‘competes’ with the private sector, the private sector is disadvantaged by having to charge VAT. FINDING THE SOLUTION The paper estimates that efficiency gains from outsourcing by public bodies across the EU would be in the region of d5 billion per annum. To adopt a refund scheme, like the UK system, across Europe it would redistribute funds to public bodies to the tune of d100 billion. Large numbers indeed.

However, it notes that refund schemes do not address the competition issue. There would also be an unknown compliance cost inherent within any refund scheme that would reduce the benefits, possibly totally they say. Given the UK experience, it seems bizarre that the cost could be that significant but whilst HMRC is not universally loved in the UK, at least it is one of the more efficient administrations around EU member states in administering VAT. For those reasons, it recommends moving to a full taxation solution, whereby the public body in question charges VAT on all its supplies and recovers VAT on its costs. It suggests that there would be an additional d195 billion revenue for member states that would allow them to drop their standard VAT rates by up to 20 per cent (i.e. down to 16 per cent in the UK).

Does this mean that you should immediately start re-modelling your financial plans?

Fortunately not. In the same vein, it has also just finished a consultation into the future of VAT, and whether or not the exemptions and zero rating provisions allowed for in EU or national law should be done away with, and there is little danger of imminent change.

Whilst many EU decisions can be taken on the basis of qualified majority voting, taxation is one area where no change can be made unless there is unanimity amongst the 27 member states, which is no quick process.

So it is suggested that whilst there is no need for immediate panic, you would be well advised to monitor developments.

The EU report mentions outsourcing and notes that in territories where there is

no VAT refund scheme for public bodies, there is a VAT cost disincentive.

Whilst the current UK system allows outsourcing and cost sharing between local authorities and other designated organisations set out in section 33 of the UK VAT Act, the noted VAT disadvantage does raise its head when other bodies in the public interest, such as medical organisations, universities, colleges, and charities become involved.

Those bodies ought to be able to benefit from another provision within the EU legislation, an exemption from VAT known as the cost sharing exemption.

This exemption is enjoyed in many member states, but not in the UK because it has not been transcribed into national VAT legislation. Equally, when organisations try to rely upon the direct effect of EU legislation, HMRC interprets the wording of the EU legislation in such a way that means it believes it can never apply in practice.

Money Matters

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

UK LAW As a consequence of the EU Commission having become aware of the inability of UK organisations to be able to rely on this provision, HMRC has stated it will consult on the possible implementation of the provision into UK law. However, this consultation has been progressing slowly as HMRC is concerned about abuse of the provision.

Part of the difficulty faced by HMRC is to properly understand the current environment faced by section 33 bodies. With the increased focus and constraints on costs, all bodies are looking to increase efficiency through aggregation in centres of excellence or share systems, such as finance, HR and IT. Many of these processes and systems could be enjoyed by charities and other non section 33 bodies for the general good of the UK. Accordingly it would be very helpful to all those organisations working in the public interest if this area could be advanced.

One of the other responses to the current economic climate is to re-evaluate your organisations appreciation of the VAT risk it faces. Historically VAT risk has been thought to be limited to making sure the right number is on the right VAT return. That is still important but just that is not enough these days. VAT risk encompasses everything from inputting into the decision making process of new ideas and proposals, to ensuring that what was said to happen does in fact happen.

Equally, changes in legislation, or case law, can render inefficient ventures or arrangements that were previously viable.

So both positive or adverse current and prospective changes in VAT law also need to be reviewed regularly as part of sensible risk management. Do you know how you empirically measure the aggregate VAT risk faced by your organisation? If you set out all the actual, prospective and historic VAT risks you face, you will probably be surprised at the aggregate value. L

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THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

The ideal staff and customer rewards – vouchers and gift cards versus secure codes Gift vouchers and cards make ideal staff and customer rewards, offering flexibility, a vast range of stores and ease of use for customers.

As technology has advanced, solutions are now available that make operating a reward programme both easier and quicker, with in many cases dramatic cost savings.

The two major constraints of operating a voucher or gift card programme are firstly that you are not always sure as to which voucher would appeal more to staff or customers, and secondly that there is often a time delay between achieving the reward and actually receiving it, which creates disinterest and prevents full adoption of the scheme.

Many organisations outsource the fulfilment of their reward programme which adds, in these times of economic restraint, further costs. Even operating the service in-house has added costs in purchasing, securing and distributing the gift cards and vouchers, and often involves posting to customers and or staff home addresses.

Rewards and promotions are of even higher importance in times of shrinking markets and participants need to feel the excitement of achieving their reward. By offering the participant the choice of which retail gift voucher or card and being able to deliver the reward within 24 hours of the achievement

42

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE Volume | 18.7

gift vouchers or cards, a purchase is made of secure codes with a defined value and method of delivery. These codes are issued to the participants who are requested to visit a secure website and select the gift vouchers for the retailer or activity they require, to the value of the secure code that has been issued to them.

The secure code can be for a mix of different retailers’ gift vouchers and cards, and is shipped direct to the participant by the delivery method selected by the programme operator.

This scheme gives ease of use, reduced costs, delivers the reward of the participant’s choice and can be delivered next day, only 24 hours after achieving the award, thereby encouraging further participation or purchase by the customer.

can only encourage participation.

A solution to meet the current constraints is now available using secure codes, or redemption codes. Instead of purchasing

For more information Address: Charity Gift Vouchers Marketing Ltd Chicheley, Hempstead Lane Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 3PR Contact: Terry Harvey, Select Rewards Tel: 01323 841253 Fax: 01323 848807 sales@vouchers4charity.org.uk www.vouchers4charity.org.uk

PARENTAL LEAVE

modern workplaces

Money Matters

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Diana Bruce from the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals explains government proposals for more flexible parental leave and the administrative implications for payroll departments The government wants to create a society where work and family complement one another. One where employers have the flexibility and certainty to recruit and retain the skilled labour they need to develop their businesses and one where employees no longer have to choose between a rewarding career and a fulfilling home life. As part of this pledge it has recently published a consultation document called Modern Workplaces which details proposals in four key areas: • a system of flexible parental leave • a right for all employees to request flexible working • changes to the Working Time Regulations affecting the interaction of annual leave with sick leave and family-friendly leave • measures to encourage equal pay for equal work between men and women.

The flexible parental leave has the main potential to heavily increase the workload of the payroll department. And depending on which department looks after annual leave within a company the changes proposed to the Working Time Regulations will certainly provide clarity for employers but still be an additional administrative process.

Flexible Parental Leave The area of the consultation with the majority of proposals is regarding parental leave where the government wants to introduce a system of genuine flexibility that will give parents choice and facilitate truly shared parenting. Together with the fact that allowing flexibility will increase the overall number of families eligible for statutory payments, this means that the proposed policy will have expenditure implications.

The aim, as a priority, is to introduce the new system in April 2015, although this timescale is subject to affordability.

There is currently a period of maternity leave reserved exclusively for mothers which must be taken in a continuous block around the time of the baby’s birth; this will of course be retained, as will the current statutory maternity pay and maternity allowance arrangements during this period.

The period classified as maternity leave and pay will become 18 weeks as opposed to the current 39 weeks. The 21 remaining weeks will then be reclassified as parental leave shared between both parents. However, if parents so choose, mothers will be able to retain access to exactly the same amount of statutory leave as they have now by combining maternity and parental leave.

The existing system of Statutory Maternity

Pay (SMP) and Maternity Allowance (MA) would be replicated with statutory shared parental pay and parental allowance, paid at 90 per cent of average earnings up to the existing flat rate (capped at £128.73 in 2011/12), and with similar eligibility criteria.

Under consideration will also be other payment routes, ensuring that all current recipients of SMP and MA are covered.

Where parents are not living together, the default position could be that the parent with main responsibility for the child should be able to take all the unreserved period of leave and pay.

Additional paternity leave The current two week (ordinary) paternity leave entitlement for fathers will also be protected and retained. The introduction of additional paternity leave (APL) in April 2011 gives both parents access to an extended period of leave in the first year, part of which may be paid. The government believes that although this is a move in the right direction for shared parenting, the system places too many restrictions on how to share leave.

APL will be replaced with a system of truly flexible parental leave, available to mothers and fathers on an equal basis. This will extend provisions to all working fathers, including those who are self-employed or change jobs during the pregnancy.

Flexible working could provide parents with helpful flexibility in their time off to care for their children and also reduce the impact of leave on businesses by allowing their employees to return to work for busy periods without forfeiting leave entitlement.

This could be particularly helpful where employers have not secured cover or to ease the parent back into work. Employees would not have an absolute right to take leave flexibly, but nor would employers have a right to refuse an employee the opportunity to take their statutory leave entitlement.

Concurrency Allowing only one parent to be out of the workplace at any one time would place unnecessary restraints on how leave may be taken, and interfere with the ability of parent and employer to agree how leave is taken. This new increased flexibility will require a new workplace approach to parental leave and will of course mean new administrative arrangements. However the government is keen that administration be as light touch as possible, and that the process of agreeing when leave is taken is left up to the parties involved.

Giving notice Leave might be taken in blocks of time between which the parent returns to work.

For example, a father could take a period of leave when his baby was born, and a further period later on. Leave might also be taken in blocks of days (rather than weeks as at present). For example, a mother may wish to return to work after 18 weeks of maternity leave, but use two days per week of parental leave to facilitate part-time working for the first year. Future consultation will explore in more detail the process of agreeing how and when leave is taken.

Parents will provide ‘self-certified’ notice of their leave plans to their employer in line with specified notification requirements.

This will build on the existing arrangements for APL, which require that parents give two months’ notice. This notice is signed by both parents so that employers can have confidence that the request is genuine.

The APL administration process will be evaluated to see how it works for employers and this will feed into future consultations on the administration of parental leave.

Proposals also include that part of the paid period of flexible parental leave be reserved for the exclusive use of each parent. However, it is not the intention that reserving a period of leave for fathers should reduce mothers’ overall leave rights: if a family still wishes the mother to take the full 52 weeks of leave currently available, she should be able to do so. So an additional four weeks of paid leave will therefore be provided so that the period of paid leave available to the mother is not reduced.

The single system of parental leave means that employees would have the same eligibility criteria for taking parental leave whether it is taken during or after the first year of a child’s life. Another proposal is to remove the existing requirement that an employee must have been with their employer for at least a year to take unpaid parental leave. This will bring the rules in line with those currently in force for maternity leave.

As the changes are not due to come in until 2015 there is valuable time available for HMRC to explore the extent to which its current proposals to reform the operation of the PAYE system through provision of real time payroll information can support any new system. There will be lessons learned when sufficient time has passed to allow evaluation of the administration of additional paternity leave and pay. The government response to this consultation will provide more details of plans in this area. L

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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TRUE OR FALSE

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CARBON EMISSIONS

towards a properly functioning market

Built Environment

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

In all markets, someone sets the rules that allow it to work. But in the UK energy and climate markets we need some more clarity argues Alan Aldridge, executive director of ESTA The government could be forgiven for thinking that industry is sending it different messages over climate change. Shortly after a barrage of lobbying from energy intensive groups about the cost of carbon abatement schemes – which led Climate Secretary Chris Huhne to publicly promise his support – a group of more than 70 of the largest companies in Europe asked governments to sign up to a commitment to cut emissions by 30 per cent by 2020.

Those urging for a 30 per cent cut, including Marks & Spencer, BT, Vodafone, National Grid and Scottish & Southern Energy, call for “a European policy framework that will spur innovation and investment, notably in renewables and energy efficiency, to ensure European energy security”. They go on to say that “research shows that by increasing the target, imports of oil and gas could be reduced by €45.5 billion in 2020” quoting

an internal European Commission study.

Charlie Mayfield, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, was quoted as saying: “We believe that a greater level of ambition for EU emissions reduction will provide incentives for innovation and investments, helping us maintain a competitive position in the low carbon economy and stimulating sustainable growth.”

Conversely, the energy intensive industries are concerned that unilateral action by Europe will add to their costs and make them uncompetitive on the world stage and do long term damage to the economy. So who is right?

A low carbon future Well, if the world’s future is a low carbon one, then it surely makes sense to be among the leaders. The development of low carbon products and services will only develop though if there is a market. Traditionally, export

markets in new technologies develop after a secure home market has been established.

And this has been a focus of both the current and the previous administration.

In addition to arguments about climate change, we should also recognise that within the next few decades we need to be as selfsufficient as possible if we are to minimise the risks to both the energy price and energy supply from external sources. Indeed, in 20 years’ time, a decision to invest heavily today in indigenous low-carbon sources, may look very different in hindsight. It may well make us more competitive going forward – not less.

Commitment to a green economy The government’s public commitment to a green economy and impending schemes like the Green Deal have created a great deal of interest in developing new products and services. Schemes like the EU Emissions E

If we want a low-carbon, sustainable society as well as greater energy security and reasonable energy prices in the future, then we need a framework that promotes it.

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CARBON EMISSIONS

Emissions of carbon dioxide have an impact on our environment and over recent years environmental economists have begun to put a cost on that impact. Environmental taxation has then sought to ensure that the polluter pays.

E Trading Scheme and the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme have made consumers more aware of opportunities to cut energy consumption and emissions, as well as providing technology developers with opportunities to create and sell new products and services. Automatic Monitoring & Targeting (aM&T) and lighting control systems are two developments that have been able to expand and develop because of greater focus on energy efficiency and climate change. The alternative view is that, in traditional markets, added costs in the way of extra taxation (like emissions allowances) add to the cost of the finished product and make global customers less likely to buy. But in the words of a previous industry minister, Lord Sainsbury, surely that is a “race to the bottom”?

Of course some heavy industry cannot just up sticks and relocate to a lower tax area. Energy companies cannot move away from customers and some forms of generation would benefit from a higher carbon price (renewables and nuclear in particular) – which is probably why some of them are in the group asking for the 30 per cent cut in emissions.

Making it happen So, governments at national and European level must make their policy goals clear. Once that policy is set, they must put in place the frameworks to achieve their goals. The UK, for example, has set a 50 per cent target by 2025. But just naming the target will not make it happen – the policies set in place must be consistent too and not send contradictory signals. Unfortunately, here we are doing less well.

The review of Feed In Tariffs (FITs) has not been well-explained and seems a bit confused. Larger photovoltaic projects will not receive the same subsidy as very small ones. The idea is that much of the money should be reserved for small, domestic installations – single households, effectively. But that means that larger installations, which have economies of scale, and even community projects, are ruled out. Is that the most effective way of promoting renewables?

It has also become apparent that the government’s quest to simplify regulation may be doing away with some of the rules that promote more environmentally-friendly behaviour. Already smaller builders are exempt from some of the requirements of the Building Regulations.

Now there are signs that the coalition partners are shaping up for a row over how far deregulation can go. There is a policy of one-in, one-out – meaning that a new regulation must be accompanied by the repeal of an old one. But as Climate Secretary Chris Huhne noted in a recent speech, some environmental regulations are in new areas and cannot replace old ones – he quoted the Montreal Protocol, which phased out CFC ozone-depleting substances as an example where new environmental regulation had made a positive difference to our world. The differences between partners in government could have quite an impact, especially as one of the areas of regulation being suggested for review is the Climate Change Act itself.

‘Good’ behaviour can be incentivised through regulation while ‘bad’ behaviour can be discouraged. So installing insulation in a home is encouraged through the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) and wasteful use of carbon-based energy penalised through the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme. The installation of automatic Monitoring & Targeting (aM&T) systems qualifies users for a relaxation of the designed carbon targets in the Building Regulations while the sale of inefficient GLS lamps is now banned.

Regulation has an important role to play where the market does not yet reflect full economic reality: the impact of carbon dioxide on the ecosystem is a case in point. It may also be used to incentivise different behaviours: so subsidies are introduced for renewables while the market becomes more mainstream and can compete on equal terms with established industries like the fossil fuel providers.

Built Environment

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Influencing decisions We live in a market economy. The rules of the market influence the decisions we make. But those rules and regulations are not some abstract universal truths: they are choices made by politicians based on their vision of society – and a vision that is tested at the ballot box.

If we want a low-carbon, sustainable society as well as greater energy security and reasonable energy prices in the future, then we need a framework that promotes it. More than that we need the framework to be consistent, clear and transparent. That is not yet the case here in the UK. L

The Energy Services and Technology Association (ESTA) represents over 100 major providers of energy management equipment and services across the UK. For more information www.esta.org.uk

Benefits of regulation While no-one wants regulation for its own sake, it can be beneficial in some areas. Emissions of carbon dioxide have an impact on our environment and over recent years environmental economists have begun to put a cost on that impact. Environmental taxation has then sought to ensure that the polluter pays. Only with accurate price signals can we make rational decisions about our options.

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Inspiration meets innovation at LIW 2011

Sports & Leisure

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

UBM Live’s Leisure Industry Week (LIW) will return to Birmingham NEC this September, offering a multitude of industry leading exhibitors, inspirational educational sessions and ground breaking features to visitors from across the spectrum of the active leisure sector LIW offers an exciting range of sectors covering Play & Attractions, Health & Fitness, Sport, Pool & Spa, Eat & Drink, Leisure Facilities and Licensed Business.

Together, these zones compliment each other perfectly to offer leisure professionals from various vertical markets inspirational and innovative business solutions.

With cuts of up to 30 per cent being predicted for local government leisure services, it is essential that leisure operators look even more closely at what they are doing and how they could do more for less. In response to this, Leisure-net Solutions in partnership with LIW, will offer a series of presentations and debates to reflect the deep challenges facing the leisure sector in general and more specifically, the public sector. These seminars will help leisure professionals to address issues around sales, customer experience, health and safety whilst addressing the growing 50+ market.

Educational content The broad educational content at LIW will provide a comprehensive mix of keynote presentations, seminars, workshops, forums and conferences. 2011 will also see the introduction of the CPD Masterclass Arena & Seminar Theatre, powered by Skills Active.

This exciting new feature will give visitors from the fitness industry the opportunity to collect CPD points through booking onto training sessions and seminars for significant learning and development career-boosting opportunities. Visitors will also be able to collect CPD points by attending the REPs National Convention, 22 September.

Keynote presentations will be provided by TV celebrity and weight loss coach Pete Cohen, who will offer his assessment of successful gym weight loss programmes, and Ray Algar who will present his latest report on the budget/low cost gym sector. Attendees will be given the first opportunity to download the full report, free of charge, thanks to support from Precor. There will also be a timely debate on gym memberships and contracts following the recent coverage this topic has received on national radio. Dave Stalker, CEO of the FIA will be joined by sales guru, Dave Wright, CEO of CMFC, for what is sure to be a lively debate.

“This year’s LIW promises to be even more exciting and innovative than ever before,” enthuses portfolio director Jonny Sullens. “We take our position as the UK’s

leading show for stakeholders in the active leisure sector extremely seriously and strive to grow and improve year on year.

“Each and every one of the sectors is shaping up really well to offer our visitors a broad range of information on a variety of leading leisure industry products and services with an increased emphasis on highlighting innovations and providing high value free education.”

The Pool & Spa Zone is launching multiple new features this year and welcomes numerous new exhibitors too. The Swimwear at LIW showcase will highlight the latest ranges from Speedo, Aqua Sphere and Zoggs with live daily fashion shows.

The Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association (SPATA) Pavilion will showcase SPATA member companies engaged in the swimming pool or spa trade. These E

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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With cuts of up to 30 per cent being predicted for local government leisure services, it is essential that operators look even more closely at what they are doing and how they could do more for less.

E companies include organisations that either build pools or can supply goods and services, such as heaters, covers, enclosures, water treatment, consultancy and maintenance.

SPATA members are committed to providing customers with a quality service and they are given a comprehensive set of standards to provide guidance on pool construction standards expected by industry experts.

IQL UK, an expert in swimming pool safety management and aquatic supervision, returns to LIW this year. IQL UK manages the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) on behalf of the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS UK) and will be making an important announcement at the show.

Tara Dillon, executive director of IQL UK, said: “We’re launching something very exciting at LIW that will be hugely important for those working within our industry. LIW is the perfect platform for us to get in front of those key people that employ lifeguards and use our qualifications. We will be

running a seminar at the show on Tuesday 20 September where all will be revealed.”

Live interactive demonstrations will play a huge part in LIW 2011. Some of the industry leading products being showcased this year include a synthetic ice rink, a high ropes course and Wave Loch’s mini Flow House. Wave Loch is a global leader in artificial wave technology with over 150 installations across the globe.

The FlowRider enables a hybrid action sport, FlowBoarding, combining elements of snowboarding, skateboarding, surfing and wake-skating and will be demonstrated at LIW.

Diverse range of visitors Sam Gore, commercial director of Wave Loch said: “We chose to exhibit our brand new FlowRider Mobile at LIW as it has a diverse range of visitors and the scale of the show allows us to exhibit alongside some of our partners. We are creating a mini Flow House at LIW, which means combining a number of inter-related revenue streams

to maximise the customer experience.”

The new Club Management Solutions Zone within the Leisure Facilities area at LIW will showcase pioneering ways of attracting, maintaining and retaining visitors to leisure industry sites. This feature at will offer a great new element to LIW 2011.

LIW strives to offer a varied and inspiring experience to its visitors, in addition to providing useful and effective business opportunities.

The importance of driving secondary spending at all leisure facilities and attractions cannot be underestimated and one of the most effective ways of doing this is through the provision and sale of refreshments. Therefore LIW will showcase some of the industry leading brands in the Eat & Drink and Licensed Business sectors. Exhibiting companies include Gatorade, Red Bull and Subway.

This year’s LIW promises to be more focused and compelling than ever before with plenty of brand new features offering a varied and useful visitor experience. Visitors can pre-register now at www.liw.co.uk to be kept up-to-date with all show developments including brand new features for 2011, product showcases and seminar programmes. LIW is also on Twitter @L_I_W, LinkedIn and Facebook/leisure-industryweek, follow to join the conversation and receive regular show updates. L

Sports & Leisure

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

FIT2FITETM Heralds a new era in group Exercise combat Aerobics n The class is designed to suit all abilities, from beginner to elite athlete. n Its simple Four Step Format attracts men, women and families to the classes. n It’s emphasis on Toning through, Technique, Tension and Intensity facilitates ongoing weight loss. n Personnel can be trained in a day and earn 4 CPD points. n It is a self regulating all over body workout that develops strength, stamina and suppleness. n It is designed by the Assistant England Karate Coach and utilised by the National Karate Team. n Cost effective as it requires no apparatus.

Tel: 020 84915219 Mob: 07957650634 Fax: 020 84915219 E-mail: info@fit2fite.com Web: www.fit2fite.com

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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perfect cleaning for your pool

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The mariner 3S clubliner sets new standards in pool cleaning. Its state of the art pump is powerful, light, compact and with hardly any metal parts, requires minimal maintenance.

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CYBEX International is a leading manufacturer of premium exercise equipment designed to deliver physical wellbeing, function and performance.

Tel: 0845 606 0228 Email: info@cybexintl.co.uk Website: www.cybexintl.com

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Fitness equipment and accessories from Fitness Warehouse Ltd Fitness Warehouse specialises in the sales and servicing of fitness equipment and related accessories throughout the UK. We supply both new and refurbished fitness equipment from the world’s leading fitness brands.

Our customers cover a broad spectrum of sectors including Police, Fire and Rescue, NHS, hotel chains, gym chains, education, Armed Forces and independent fitness facilities.

We pride ourselves on being very competitive and offering value for money. Let us know your requirements and we will provide you with a customised solution to fit your budget.

Our friendly staff are always at hand to provide specialist advice and recommendations for any queries you may have.

Our additional services include gym design, maintenance training, gym flooring, gym mirrors, and gym audio systems.

We supply the full package. We hope we can be of assistance and look forward to hearing from you.

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.FitnessWarehouseUK.com will offer an insight into the products and services we are able to provide.

You can also call us on 01772 849990 or e-mail sales@fitnesswarehouseuk.com

The Mariner 3S range of swimming pool cleaners Swimco is currently celebrating 15 years of being the sole UK distributor of the internationally acclaimed Mariner 3S range of swimming pool cleaners.

Mariner 3S automatic pool cleaners are Swiss made commercial machines. There is a Mariner 3S pool cleaner for every shape and size of pool. All the models in the range offer outstanding cleaning properties; they will remove debris and even bacterial contamination from pool water. 3S machines are designed to operate in a tough commercial environment and yet still offer a very long service life. All spare parts are readily available from our UK base.

The Mariner 3S Clubliner was introduced to Europe and the UK in 2010 and is proving to

be the best selling 3S machine so far. The Mariner 3S Clubliner is quite literally a technological breakthrough. It offers state-ofthe-art technology in a compact, user friendly, affordable way.

Clubliner does not require regular servicing and almost all maintenance can be carried out by site personnel. Each machine is equipped with a tool kit and easy to follow instructions.

Swimco with its Swiss trained technicians and personnel offer excellent customer service and after sales support. Each machine is also backed by a two-year warranty.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01761 432838 Fax: 01761 437216 info@swimco3Scleaners.co.uk www.swimco3Scleaners.co.uk

Functional and durable quality gym equipment When you are looking to equip your gym you need someone whose reputation has stood the test of time. Someone who has the relationships across the market place and will offer you quality equipment at competitive prices.

At Pullum Sports we have a history of over 100 years of offering value for money coupled with a passion for what we do.

With our own UK based design and manufacturing team, our equipment has a hard earned reputation for functionality and durability. By working with customers across the marketplace, from elite national athletes to individual enthusiasts, we bring together the latest training concepts in to

our professional range. Coupled with that are relationships with key suppliers across the globe, such as Eleiko, Adidas, Ivanko, Do-Win, Nelco, Ironmind and Titan, to name but a few.

For resistance or disc loading machines, power racks and lifting platforms, bars and discs, dumbbells, CV equipment and training accessories such as weightlifting shoes, resistance bands and chalk, we offer our customers the complete package of high quality products that will provide value for money for many years.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01582 560555 info@pullumsports.com www.pullumsports.com

A leading provider of premium commercial fitness equipment CYBEX creates and produces premium exercise equipment designed to improve physical wellbeing, function and performance. The company’s expertise in sports science has been developed from its sports medicine and rehabilitation heritage, which ensures that CYBEX produces the highest quality in innovative and technologically differentiated products and programmes.

The company’s product portfolio covers a full range of cardiovascular and strength training equipment. CYBEX’s cardio equipment includes a full line of treadmills and bikes, plus the revolutionary non-elliptical Arc Trainer. CYBEX manufactures the largest selection of strength training equipment in the industry, with over 150 unique pieces including four complete

lines of selectorised strength equipment plus modular, plateloaded, free weights and a series of racks and benches.

CYBEX designs for customers who value performance and results. The diverse product range serves the needs of assorted market segments including health and fitness clubs, schools, colleges and universities, professional sports teams and workplace fitness facilities.

CYBEX is also a pioneer in the development of inclusive fitness, producing its Total Access line of products tailored for individuals with physical disabilities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 0845 6060228 Fax: 0845 6060227 info@cybexintl.co.uk www.cybexintl.com

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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visit

LEISURE INDUSTRY WEEK 20-22 September 2011 ¡ NEC Birmingham LIW provides an exclusive platform for industry professionals to meet and source products from over 350 suppliers and service providers from across the Leisure Industry. Attracting 9580* trade visitors in 2010, LIW provides visitors with over 150 hours of education at our most extensive seminar programme to date, the opportunity to see the latest developments in action and watch live product demonstrations. Connect with the leisure community and join us at LIW for 2011.

NEW exhibitors confirmed include: powerPerfector, Russell Leisure, Amazon Leisure UK, Waveloch, MyZone, Subway, Red Bull, Bel Uk and so much more‌

Register your interest in attending today at www.liw.co.uk/register

*ABC audited

www.liw.co.uk

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

FIT2FITE – fighting moves to funky grooves

The specialist water chemicals supplier

FIT2FITE – Fighting Moves To Funky Grooves – is a unique, exciting, family friendly martial arts based aerobic class. FIT2FITE tailors the funkiest dance music to practical fighting combinations creating an energy charged, non-contact aerobic experience for all fitness levels. FIT2FITE was designed for the fitness industry by Greg Francis, a former international karate athlete and current assistant England coach.

Dance music aficionado Greg forged his 34 years of martial arts experience with uplifting music and fluidity of movement and FIT2FITE was born.

FIT2FITE’s emphasis on toning, through technique, tension and intensity, transforms fat to muscle, improves coordination and balance, develops core strength, increases cardiovascular fitness and facilitates progressive weight reduction. These comprehensive physical benefits are validated by a leading sports college.

FIT2FITE develops a technical knowledge base enabling participants to self assess their technical delivery, this approach

Complete Pool Controls will be exhibiting at this year’s LIW for the first time. Complete Pool Controls is a specialist pool and spa water chemical supplier. The company has grown rapidly since it began in 2007 and was recognised as a national finalist of the HSBC Start-up Star Awards for new businesses in 2009.

Complete Pool Controls Ltd supplies a wide range of chemicals and ancillary products to the commercial and domestic leisure markets.

• Pool and Spa chemicals – Blue Horizons and AquaSPArkle • Testing kits and reagents – Lovibond and Palintest • Dosing and control equipment – Poolsupervision controllers and DDS feeders

stimulates a more purposeful and productive workout. The FIT2FITE Four Step Format provides instructors with credible alternatives and flexibility within a structured template.

Personnel can be trained in a day and earn REPS points.

FIT2FITE is cost effective as it incorporates a competitively priced licence and requires no specific equipment, just hands, legs and heart.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 020 84915219 Mob: 07957 650634 Fax: 020 84915219 info@fit2fite.com www.fit2fite.com

Low investment, simple operation and unparalleled support The SUBWAY® chain is the largest specialist sandwich chain in the UK & Ireland, with more than 1,500 stores. Worldwide, the SUBWAY® chain has more than 34,000 stores in 98 countries.

Stores offer customers a delicious range of subs made right in front of them on freshly baked bread – just the way they want it.

The SUBWAY® chain owes much of its success to the strong support systems it has for franchisees, allowing each individual to operate within a tried and tested system with excellent training and a solid support structure. This support has been very successful, and the fact that over 70 per cent of all new SUBWAY® franchises sold worldwide are sold to existing owners speaks volumes.

Neil Black, development agent for the SUBWAY® chain, says: “The SUBWAY®

chain’s franchise system has widespread appeal. The low investment, simple operation and unparalleled support make it an attractive proposition for entrepreneurs across the world.”

Think a SUBWAY® franchise could be for you?

Please see our website.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 0800 0855058 (UK) or 1800 413076 (Eire) Fax: 01223 844884 franchiseopportunities @subway.co.uk www.subway.co.uk

for Calcium Hypochlorite • Health and safety equipment • Training Comprehensive stocks are held in the UK allowing for a speedy and efficient service and the products are fully supported by one of the most experienced teams in the UK, both in-house and in the field.

At LIW we will be offering advice and displaying a sample of our extensive range of products including the latest water testing kits from Lovibond and the new DDS feeder for Calcium Hypochlorite.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 0871 2229082 sales@cpc-chemicals.co.uk www.cpc-chemicals.co.uk

TGS Group – fitness management technology TGS is the fastest growing group in the fitness management industry today. We are global innovators in the design and manufacture of health and leisure management solutions created with a simple aim – to make a fitness business more intelligent, easier to manage and more profitable.

Our flagship software hub Eclipse provides integrated management software that links every function of a business from membership management and retention through marketing, sales, stock control and reporting. Eclipse then processes this information via EPOS links to debit collection houses. Our fitness management technology programme includes Lumimetrics Access Control, Wi-Fi, CCTV, online booking and bespoke development.

TGS Group offers straightforward, intelligent and affordable systems that really work. Designed with the industry’s leading professionals and backed by unbeatable development and nationwide support, our products are changing the face of fitness for a fraction of the cost of

conventional solutions.

Working closely with TGS Group transforms what clients know about their business.

Experts in fitness management technology, we deploy this daily for our clients to continually develop our capability and service. Always questioning, always reviewing. It’s this desire to do better and our investment in our future which stands us apart from competitors.

Privately funded, with a strong balance sheet, we’re developing the future of fitness management, exploring international markets, creating next generation products and expanding our team to deliver our confident growth plans.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 0115 9848383 sales@totalgymsoftware.com totalgymsoftware.com

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

55

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EVENT PREVIEW

SHAPE YOUR SPACE

Landscaping & Groundscare

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

This year’s IOG SALTEX will address the needs of the open space industry through a comprehensive education programme, new product demonstrations and special features With over 300 exhibitors, a host of special feature areas and a not-to-be-missed education programme, this year’s IOG SALTEX will be the turf care and open space management show of the year.

As well as displaying thousands of products, many of which are being launched or shown in public for the first time, the event will address the needs of the complete spectrum of the open space industry – from fine turf and sports surfaces through to turf maintenance, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contracting, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment.

The event, held 6-8 September at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, will be attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.

Organised by the Institute of Groundsmanship, the first IOG exhibition was staged in 1938, the forerunner to today’s IOG SALTEX Sports, Amenity & Landscape Trade Exhibition. Held annually at Windsor Racecourse, IOG SALTEX is the annual extravaganza for everyone who cares for and/or manages open spaces – including groundsmen, greenkeepers, contractors, local authority and leisure facility managers.

SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS This year’s show will also feature a number of special attractions, such as the Education Zone, the 4x4 off-road course, and the World of Arb Area.

The Education Zone, a new feature at this year’s IOG SALTEX open space management show, will offer visitors an unrivalled resource of back-to-basics turf skills, a showcase of industry-specific colleges and a series of unrivalled demonstrations of best-practice machine servicing and checking. The Zone,

therefore, will provide beginners with useful snapshots of everything needed to get started, while more experienced visitors will also receive timely updates of modern practices.

Indispensable advice on equipment maintenance will be complemented by a focused display of training courses and education routes by organisations such as Badger Hill Training, City & Guilds Land Based Services, Ian Gower Associates, Merrist Wood College, MWAC, Myerscough College and Writtle College, alongside the training and education expertise of the Institute of Groundsmanship, Hadlow College and the Institute of Horticulture elsewhere on the showground.

The Education Zone will also embrace the

answer any questions visitors may have.

Another attraction at this year’s event is the exciting off-road 4x4 course, speciallyconstructed, tested and marshalled by Polaris staff, where visitors will not only be able to test their driving skills but also experience at first hand a number of Polaris 4x4s.

This year’s programme of activities for arboriculturalists embraces an exciting, informative and comprehensive series of climbing/access and rescue demonstrations, workshops and seminars. The World of Arb area will also feature the Climb a Mile tree-climbing relay race in aid of the Help for Heroes charity. Staged by the BTS Group, the challenge will involve a team of professional arborists climbing

The event will be attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers. ever-popular Sports Turf Skills Village – a daily programme of demonstrations of basic natural turf maintenance skills that will be repeated in the mornings and afternoons on each day of IOG SALTEX. It will cover performance quality; standard/assessment of surface; setting out/marking out; prestart/post operative checks to machinery; setting height of cut; mowing; aeration; scarifying; fertiliser application (including calibration of equipment); and topdressing (including calibration of equipment).

The demonstrations – featuring equipment and products supplied by exhibitors – will be supported by ECB Pitch Advisors and IOG training instructors, who will be available to

a tree in relay to achieve a total height equal to or greater than a road mile.

EDUCATION The series of free education seminars boasts a programme that will appeal to a wide range of interests, including topical sessions on sustainability, contracting, the Big Society, grass seed, pesticides, funding and apprenticeships.

Meanwhile, this year the show will host professional football’s Playing Surfaces Committee’s bi-annual conference. This is a day-long programme of informative and interesting seminars and debates on a range of topical issues of concern to groundsmen E

Volume 18.7 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Emak Group, manufacturer of the Efco & Bertolini garden machinery ranges, has a fine record of new product development and innovation.

Through adopting a design approach focused on simplicity and high specification build quality, we have been able to generate exceptional ranges.

The Efco garden machinery range covers a whole specturm of product categories including chainsaws, brushcutters, hedgetrimmers, lawnmowers and ride-on tractors to name but a few. The Bertolini range expands the Efco offerings with motocultivators, motor mowers, flail mowers and transporters.

The quality of the company’s

offering has been well rewarded by the market, as witnessed by the constant growth in sales, production capability and human resources achieved year on year.

Indeed Emak today is an industry leader in Italy, and ranks also among the premier European manufacturers in its sector.

Emak UK prides itself on encompassing and accommodating the needs and demands of every user, albeit domestic or professional.

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EVENT PREVIEW

E from the 92 professional clubs in the Premier League, the Football League’s Championship and Leagues 1 and 2.

It all adds up to a three-day extravaganza of unrivalled expertise, skill sets and products that will ensure volunteers and professionals alike can keep pace with the demands of the ever-changing, evolving and challenging open space management landscape.

UK’S LARGEST TRACTOR ON DISPLAY IOG SALTEX exhibitor Cleveland Sitesafe is bringing the largest tractor outside of the USA to this year’s show – a 27tonne 650/50 Big Bud originally made in Montana over 30 years ago.

Mike Scaiffe, managing director of Cleveland Sitesafe, spent up to 24 months restoring the giant vehicle originally used in the construction industry, and now officially recognised as the UK’s largest and most powerful tractor.

It has a six-cylinder Cummins KTA19 650 HP engine and Allison Twin

Disc TD.92-2610 transmission.

The 650/50 Big Bud will be on display at IOG SALTEX’s South entrance throughout the three days, complementing Cleveland Sitesafe’s display of highly-secure, allsteel café/kiosk, groundsman’s stores and chemical storage solutions.

NEW PRODUCTS IOG SALTEX will showcase a range of new products, including the Husqvarna P 524, a new professional petrol front mower with all the same features and benefits as its diesel-powered sibling – the P 520D – but at a lower price.

Also on the stand will be the T540 XP professional chainsaw and the new 500 series professional brush cutters with high performance and reliability as well as manoeuvrability. The new 545RX has optimised shaft length and bevel gear angled 35 deg. The gear was designed so that a high torque is available and the

cutting equipment is parallel to the ground, helping to achieve the best cutting results.

Husqvarna’s X-Torq engine technology enables the 545RX to deliver rapid acceleration and high power over a wider RPM range.

X-Torq also increases fuel efficiency by up to 20 per cent whilst reducing exhaust emissions by up to 75 per cent.

Another new product on display will be BLEC’s GKB Sandfiller tractor-mounted scarifier and sandslitter which removes and collects spoil and fills grooves with sand in one pass. The machine is specifically designed for aerating and draining sports turf.

It can cut grooves at 40mm centres with carbon-tipped blades that go as deep as 4cm.

The spoil is removed to a hopper which can be side-tipped. Within the same machine is another hopper containing kiln-dried sand that is deposited in the grooves – thus completing the slitting and sanding operation in one pass. With a three-point linkage and 1.2m working width, the Sandfiller is ideal for tractors from 40HP upwards.

Landscaping & Groundscare

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

EDGE INNOVATION AWARDS Exhibitors at this year’s event will again be able to enter the EDGE Awards for product innovation. Inaugurated last year by EDGE (Expo Demo Green Europe), the organisers of four of Europe’s largest open space exhibitions, the EDGE Innovation Awards are competed for in two categories: the construction and maintenance of open spaces (including machinery and equipment), and the design and supply of amenities (including consumables, street furniture, playground equipment and plants).

There is also a special prize for environmental excellence and sustainability.

The winners of each category at IOG SALTEX will then be judged internationally against the winners from this year’s Demo-Dagen and Salonvert shows in Holland and France, respectively.

The EDGE Innovation Awards entry forms are available online at www.iogsaltex.co.uk L

Bomford – manufacturing vegitation control machinery for 107 years Bomford Turner has been manufacturing vegetation control machinery for 107 years.

Based in Worcestershire, the company is still regarded as market leader and continues to grow its reputation for quality and reliability.

Exhibiting a representative range of its machines at Saltex 2011, Bomford will be showcasing the new Robin 3.2 and Robin 4.2 arm mowers. These machines feature the new Bomford rationalised style taken from their big sister, the Falcon Evo. The Robin has twin pump independent hydraulics, is three-point linkage mounted and can be used on tractors over 30HP. The Robin can be specified as left or right hand, rear or front mounted with parallel arm geometry.

There are various heads available such as traditional flail head, saw bar attachment or 1.5 meter cutter bar. The new Robin is a must for local authorities and their contractors.

Also on the Bomford stand at Saltex 2011 will be the new improved CTVM (Compact Tractor Verge Mower) which is mounted by interchangeable arms

to suit various prime movers.

The Bomford CTVM has a 1.6 cutting width and is specifically designed for the municipal grounds maintenance market.

Transporting through a little over 1.8 meters, the CTVM has adjustable cutting heights from 8mm to 130mm, 32 scooped flails with a cutting tip speed of 41 meters per second driven through twin vee belts and tensioned with gearbox mounting.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01789 773383 Fax: 01789 773238 info@bomford-turner.com www.bomford-turner.com

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I O G S A LT E X

shape your space IOG SALTEX, the UK’s Number 1 open space management event is back at Windsor Racecourse from the 6 - 8th September 2011. Visit this dynamic show to discover the latest innovations and tried and tested products for all of your grounds care, sports facilities, amenities, landscaping and estate management needs.

Register for your free entry badge at www.iogsaltex.co.uk or call 0845 272 8782 for free badges.

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Boddingtons – paving the Genquip and Groundhog way to a greener future go green at IOG Saltex Boddingtons’ BodPave® 85 plastic interlocking paving grids provide a permeable ground reinforcement solution for grass or gravel surfaces where ground stabilisation for vehicular or pedestrian traffic is required.

Traditional water impermeable parking and walkway solutions can aid storm-water run-off, which in turn limits the amount of water getting back in to the natural water table.

Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) attempt to minimise the impact on water quality and limit flood risk.

Surface solutions that actively aid SUDS offer a real advantage.

One such solution is the porous plastic paver, which is effective in managing water run-off.

The nature of the BodPave® 85 porous paver design is such that water and air is allowed to permeate through the paver and in to the ground, back in to the natural water system.

Manufactured from 100 per cent recycled material for environmental soundness and offering a load bearing of 400t/

m², BodPave® 85 is flexible in application and available in a choice of colours to suit different grass/aggregate types. BodPave® 85 has an open cell structure that promotes optimum grass growth or gravel retention and the grids contain integral ground spikes to limit lateral movement.

Applications include: • Grass car parks • Gravel car parks • Driveways • Access roads • Walkways • Emergency access routes • Golf buggy paths • Cycle paths.

For more information Tel: 01621 874200 www.grass-reinforcement.com

AJC – the market leaders in eco-friendly welfare solutions AJC has a range of mobile 12 volt EcoCabins from the 12ft, which provides canteen facilities for five people complete with separate toilet and drying room, and the 16ft, which is similar to the 12ft but for ten people. These incorporate many advanced features as standard, for example, PIR activated LED lighting, carbon monoxide detector, blown air thermostatically controlled heating, thermostatically controlled hot water to the sink and, most importantly auto voltage sensing generator charging technology. This means that a central control system charges the battery to its optimum level and then switches the diesel generator off.

Each unit has a hydraulically lowered axle to reduce the risk of theft. The cabins are also very light, being constructed from bonded composite panels

that are light but strong.

Using this proven technology AJC are now producing the Easycabin Eco-static 28. Built from a robust steel construction, the Eco-static 28 provides canteen facilities for 12, with a drying room, toilet and office/ store room. The integral plant room houses the 5.5 KVa diesel generator, the 12 volt system and diesel heating, optional toilet waste incinerator and 1,000 litre holding tank.

Genquip together with partner Groundhog UK are the UKs leading innovators and manufacturers of environmentally biased site welfare facilties and have been supplying both static and mobile units to the UK market for over 20 years.

Genquip/Groundhog are proud to announce that they will be displaying the all new GP360 Hybrid Mobile welfare unit at this year’s IOG Saltex in Windsor.

The all new GP360 Hybrid unit retains the legendary quality and strength that the Groundhog brand is known for whilst giving lower CO2 emmisons and longer silent running times through clever use of 12V technology and Webasto heating systems.

The unit is designed for one person installation and can be manoeuvred, secured and made ready even in the tightest of areas in less than three minutes.

The GP360 Hybrid unit can accomodate up to six

people in a pleasant and safe environment, with a seating area, microwave and kettle, hot water and fresh drinking facilty.

A Webasto efficient heating system and LED lights add to the finsih with a toilet and generator area in the back.

Anybody seeking information on current site welfare legislation or indeed green and environmental options will be made most welcome by Dennis Hughes, Peter Beach and Paul Ratcliffe on stand D14a.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact: Dennis Hughes Tel: 01639 823484 dennis@genquip.co.uk www.genquip.co.uk

Saltex 2011: Broadwood’s best show to date As the premier groundcare event of the calendar Saltex 2011 will see premier groundcare manufacturer Broadwood International exhibiting a wide range of professional equipment.

In addition to the highly acclaimed new Wessex ProLine TGX-150H outfront flail mower, the Wessex ProLine RMX 240 and RMX 480 roller mowers will be on display, showcasing this premium brand of high-speed, fine finish grass-cutting machinery. Linked to the Wessex ProGlider trailed chassis, road transport is an easy and comfortable task for users of Wessex ProLine roller mowers.

After the last three heavy

winters, the SnowEx premium range of spreaders has risen to the challenge and proven to be the brand of choice for operators nationwide. See key models from the SnowEx range on the Broadwood stand at Saltex and discover the answer to effective winter maintenance.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Broadwood International Oakhanger Road Bordon Hampshire GU35 9HH Tel: 01420 478111 Fax: 01420 483000 www.broadwoodintl.co.uk info@broadwodintl.co.uk

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01582 486663 sales@easycabin.co.uk www.easycabin.co.uk

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La Tene Maps www.latene.com

Working mainly with Renewable Energy Associations La Tene Maps are responsible for the research and production of printed maps on Renewable Energy, Waste Management and Sustainable Industries.

Recent and new maps on Britain include: Britain - Recycling and Waste Management Britain - Anaerobic Digestion British Hydropower Map British Wind Farm Map British Bioenergy Map Scotland - Energy Map Scotland - Small Scale Energy The North Sea- Renewables Infrastructure Map These maps are industry sponsored and distributed free at relevant conferences and exhibitions and by the associations they are produced in co-operation with.

Further information from: John Coleman, La Tene Maps, Tel: +353 12847914. e-mail: enquiries@latene.com

He’s got ideas on a new masterpiece...

...but we got there first.

Prevention is better than the cure!

The innovative and award winning Merlin Graffiti Detector from Elmdene uses an advanced algorithm to identify the exact sound signature of aerosol spray paints.

The Merlin is very flexible – connect it to a local siren that will sound and deter the perpetrator in the act of spraying graffiti or integrate it with remote CCTV and alarm monitoring solutions to assist with the apprehension of perpetrators.

Ideal for use in schools and colleges, railways and undergrounds, car parks, public buildings – any place where graffiti is a problem!

‘Intruder Alarm or Exterior Deterrent Product of the Year’

Merlin MGD-S Graffiti Detector • Easy to install and set up • Compact and unobtrusive • Reliable and accurate • Fast detection – typically 5 – 8 seconds • Wide coverage with option to link devices for maximum protection • Easy to integrate with other systems • Tamper protection as standard • More cost effective than repeated cleaning

Elmdene International Ltd., 3 Keel Close, Interchange Park, Portsmouth, PO3 5QD. Tel: +44 (0)23 9269 6638.

Email: stop-graffiti@elmdene.co.uk www.elmdene.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE Volume | 18.7

Vaults Fire and Security Ltd – first for CCTV An established provider of leading security solutions, we specialise in protecting businesses and local authority buildings nationwide.

To increase the security of your premises, improve personal safety and reduce the fear of crime, we offer within our portfolio of products, a complete range of adaptable CCTV (Closed Circuit TV) systems.

• Stand alone and remotely monitored systems • Digital Video Recorders and IP Recorders • Vandal resistant cameras • Fully functional domes • Integration with access control and other security media Our CCTV systems provide one of the most efficient and convenient ways of protecting your building, whilst offering user friendly remote viewer software to keep an eye on things even when you are not there.

Existing systems often benefit from having cameras serviced and calibrated to give optimum quality and performance.

Upgrades are available that utilise the existing infrastructure and some products can be integrated into computer based, access control systems.

Providing a wealth of engineering knowledge on the many systems within the marketplace, we are approved installers at the highest level, of Dedicated Micro’s systems, leaders in stand-alone and computerised CCTV. Vaults Fire and Security will provide a suitable system to meet your requirements or develop a bespoke, fully integrated solution to meet your CCTV needs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 0121 354 5525 sales@vaultssecurity.co.uk www.vaultssecurity.co.uk

EVENT PREVIEW

FINDING BETTER WAYS TO DEAL WITH WASTE At RWM in partnership with CIWM, visitors will have access to the latest industry updates from exhibitors as well as a seminar programme covering the biggest waste and recycling issues With over 500 exhibitors already signed up, this year’s RWM in partnership with CIWM is the UK’s leading event for the waste, recycling and resource efficiency market. The event is taking place at Birmingham’s NEC 13-15 September 2011.

This year’s RWM in partnership with CIWM exhibition is the first since the

merger of the CIWM event Futuresource and the Recycling and Waste Management Exhibition in 2010. What were formerly the UK’s two largest waste events have responded to visitor demand to create a flagship event for the UK industry.

The wide range of exhibitors includes industry leading companies such as

The Local Authority Theatre will inspire decision makers in the public sector to improve waste management facilities through learning valuable lessons from peers and experts on balancing waste and cost cutting commitments.

recycled plastics specialist Biffa Polymers, vehicle supplier Dennis Eagle and waste and sustainability experts WRAP, alongside WYG Environmental, BPI Recycled Products, Smurfit Kappa Recycling (UK), Environmental Waste Controls, Wastology Systems, Sita UK, Recresco, Straight, Viridor and many more.

In addition, RWM is planning a series of advisory sessions to keep visitors up to date with the latest developments in the waste industry. Features include a full programme of seminars in four theatres, the Leader’s Forum Keynote Theatre, communications advice in the Sauce Communications hub in partnership with CIWM and one-on-one advice in the Professional Services Clinic.

Recycling & Waste Management

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Local Authority Theatre Local authorities are finding it increasingly difficult to meet environmental targets amongst economic cut backs. The dedicated Local Authority Theatre sponsored by the Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee (LARAC) will inspire decision makers in the public sector to improve waste management facilities through learning valuable lessons from peers and experts on balancing waste and cost cutting commitments.

The Local Authority Theatre will feature sessions covering some of the major waste issues affecting local authorities in addition to best practice case studies discussing how to tackle these.

With the value of waste rising in the UK, waste crime is becoming an increasing E

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Recycling & Waste Management

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

EVENT PREVIEW E challenge to both those within the waste industry and those who rely on it. Mat Crocker, head of illegals and waste at the Environment Agency, will be presenting an update on the agency’s new approach to waste crime. Mat will be discussing successes to date through their new policy on tackling crime and how the Environment Agency is working with local authorities to target illegal waste activity.

The team from LARAC will be manning its adjoining stand throughout the exhibition to advise on increasing local authority recycling rates. In addition, chair, Joy Blizzard of Shropshire County Council, will be advising on persuading householders to change their habits and mindsets surrounding waste minimisation and prevention. Joy will present LARAC’s latest advice on how individual local authorities can inspire and support behavioural change in householders and getting the message of waste minimisation across.

SHARING BEST PRACTICE Reducing budgets and improving services are two major themes running across the public sector as a whole and in particular in local government. Ruth Plant, director of operational services at Lichfield District Council, will be discussing how an innovative approach to waste collections through working in partnership with Tamworth District Council has reduced waste budgets for both parties whilst continuing to improve services for householders.

Finally, David Bradley, senior advisor at the Environment Agency, will be discussing how the agency is working in partnership with local authorities to ensure dry recyclables, which includes cardboard, paper, aluminium and plastic, waste electronics and other waste products, are management effectively and legally.

The very latest in technology and services in waste and recycling are expected to be on show at this year’s exhibition. For those that want to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the waste industry, in addition to exhibitor launches, visitors can learn more from the Technology & Innovation Theatre’s three day seminar programme, which provides the latest information to further any organisation’s waste management policy.

A major theme in the waste industry and one that is of significant importance to local authorities is dealing with household organic (food and garden) waste and getting the most out of what has typically been landfill waste.

Much of Oxfordshire’s commercial and household organic waste is currently used in anaerobic digestion to release energy from waste. James Astor, managing director at Agrivert, the green waste composting specialist, will be presenting details of the project including how much is diverted from landfill and the products created by anaerobic digestion.

With many local authorities beginning to

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE Volume | 18.7

introduce services to improve food waste recycling, the next hurdle that must be overcome is making food waste recycling a mainstream habit for householders.

Suzanne McDermott, commercial manager at PDM, will be discussing the barriers to food waste recycling and how partnership approaches between product designers, local authorities, kitchen manufacturers and scientists can help overcome these.

In addition, Roy Brown, chief executive at personal care product recycler Knowaste, will be discussing the role of new waste and recycling technologies in shaping future UK waste policy. Roy explain how Knowaste’s cost effective nappy recycling system can help local authorities to meet UK and EU landfill diversion targets in one of the most problematic areas of waste.

Energy Theatre Energy from waste is also a major issue.

It will dominate RWM in partnership with CIWM’s Energy Theatre this year with the speaker programme focusing very much on waste policy and what this means for the energy sector.

Major sessions include an update on energy policy and incentive and an update on EU directives on energy from waste and how these directives translate to the UK. Local government professionals can also find out more about a study carried out by North East Regional Improvement and the Efficiency Partnership on the opportunities available for three councils in the North East to work together in managing organic waste to be used in producing biodiesel. Programme manager Peter Schofield will be discussing how this will be more cost effective than individual policies to the three councils involved.

The final of the four seminar theatres will focus on what waste management means to businesses with case studies from major international brands including Coca-Cola and Hewlett Packard. Public sector organisations can take away the

latest up to the minute waste insight from the private sector which can be transferred to public sector organisations.

The Commerce & Industry Theatre will also look the infrastructure surrounding waste regulations. Seminar topics include how better waste infrastructure can help to address public concerns surrounding some aspects of waste policy and encourage a smoother planning processes in the construction of new waste facilities from Andy King, waste sector leader at Morgan Sindall.

Leading names for 2011 This year for the first time RWM in partnership with CIWM will be presenting a series of keynote speeches from household names and thought leaders in the UK waste industry. The Leaders’ Forum Keynote Theatre gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about major issues affecting waste and recycling in the UK. For additional advice, this year’s exhibition will also feature one-on-one support for visitors in the Professional Services Clinic, sponsored by corporate law firm Nabarro. Professional services experts will be available throughout the three day exhibition but visitors are advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

This year’s exhibition will also feature a series of interactive talks, debates, oneto-ones and seminars presented by the industry’s leading authorities on positive communications in the recycling and waste management industry. The Sauce Communications hub in partnership with CIWM and APSRG will be providing guidance for all industry practitioners on how to deliver successful communication management.

RWM in partnership with CIWM is the largest event for the waste, recycling and resource efficiency market and takes place at the Birmingham NEC from Tuesday 13 to Thursday 15 September 2011. The full seminar programme, along with the latest news and updates on show features is available online. L FOR MORE INFORMATION Register at www.rwmexhibition.com/pr

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Maps on energy, waste management and recycling subjects La Tene Maps is Europe’s leading producer of printed maps on renewable energy, waste management, recycling and sustainable industry. In operation over 25 years the company has built a reputation of producing high quality accurate maps and educational posters on the many subject areas it works in.

Most of its maps are distributed free by the company at trade shows and conferences and by the organisations that the maps are produced in cooperation with.

Subject areas the company works in are mainly in the renewable energy sector and it produces the definitive maps of Britain on wind farming (onshore and offshore), bioenergy (biomass, biogas, energy from waste) and hydropower.

New maps are currently being prepared on waste management and recycling, anaerobic digestion, hydropower, North Sea renewables infrastructure and wind farm installations for launch over the next three months.

The company also works

in the areas of sustainable aquaculture, fisheries and water related subjects, food and seafood production and tracability, electricity generation and transmission, fossil fuel subjects – oil and gas, coal and nuclear power.

The company works with associations and private companies and is available for printed map production work, web based maps including google map and google earth applications. See the website for the full range of our activities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION John Coleman La Tene Maps Tel: +353 1 2847914 enquiries@latene.com www.latene.com

Waste vehicle solutions and municipal services Cooper Group has been providing waste vehicle solutions and municipal services to the public and private sector across the West Midlands for 25 years. We pride ourselves on quality of service and understand the importance of having a well maintained, reliable fleet of vehicles.

Our services include refuse vehicle hire on spot or contract basis, fleet maintenance, repair and refurbishment. We also have an online remarketing service for authority equipment, commercial vehicles and plant where we can remarket surplus fleet vehicles and equipment to a worldwide audience.

We have a full commercial vehicle paint shop and preparation facility enabling us to undertake any repair or refurbishment work

and are a Zurich Insurance approved repair centre.

With workshops spanning some 65,000 square feet, ample secure, CCTV protected storage space for over 100 commercial vehicles and a team of fully trained technicians we have the capacity to take on a wide range of work.

We also specialise in the installation, maintenance and repair of lifting equipment.

From cranes to skip gear, we are the West Midlands main agent for the Hiab range of Multilift demountables. Whatever your commercial vehicle or waste vehicle requirements, Cooper Group has a solution.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01902 403826 Fax: 01902 403827 info@coopergroupuk.com www.coopergroupuk.com

Fike UK to showcase its products at RWM 2011

Architecture, space planning and strategic space management

The drive to clean up carbon based power generation and exploit cleaner, renewable sources of energy has put many challenges onto energy generating companies. Part of this has been the need to acquire knowledge of new fuels and their properties; how they can be sourced, transported, stored, processed and ultimately used for maximum calorific efficiency.

Many new problems have arisen as a result; the logistics of moving larger quantities of raw material, potential environmental issues with storage and differing explosive characteristics which must be catered for during processing.

Although the dangers from dust explosions have long been known about and catered for with the more established fuels, the emergence of biomass has brought with it a new set of characteristics, previously unknown.

For over 60 years Fike has

The practice has over 13 years experience working in-house for large public and private sector institutions across London and the South East.

We are equally at home preparing briefs, feasibilities and detailed proposals for any size of project, however large or small, and have the capability to manage complex, multi-sited property portfolios between 500 and 500,000 sq ft.

We pride ourselves in a professional and timely delivery of high quality information in a variety of formats to suit individual organisational technology platforms and communication methods.

Benefits to an organisation of this working model can be summarised across rapid response and refinement of proposals, on-call service delivery and economic, high quality delivery.

Professional and trade body

been one of the leaders at the forefront of Dust Explosion Protection and Pressure Relief Systems. Worldwide we already have great experience in protecting renewable energy facilities against overpressure and dust explosion incidents.

We will be exhibiting a range of our Bursting Disc, Explosion Vents and Explosion Protection equipment on stand 2060 at RWM 2011 and have experts on hand to talk about your particular requirements. We look forward to seeing you.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01622 677081 Fax: 01622 685737 sales@fike.co.uk www.fike.co.uk

affilliations include RIBA Chartered Practice Federation of Small Businesses Approved Contractor – Chelmer Housing Partnership and Chelmsford Approved Contractor – St Georges Community Housing, Basildon.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Glynn Williams Tel: 01245 222692 Fax: 01245 222692 Mob: 07973 835067 glynn.williams@tesco.net www.glynnwilliams architects.com

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Advertisers Index

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HSE Recommendation With over 800,000 incidents of violence in the workplace reported in England and Wales each year, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) recommends employers:

“Train employees so that they can spot the early signs of aggression and either avoid it or cope with it.”

Workplace violence and aggression?

Tel: +44(0)161 929 9777 crisisprevention.co.uk Company Registration: FC027405 as CPI, Inc.

Front-line staff are increasingly facing aggressive, challenging behaviour and can struggle to remain courteous and professional at all times. CPI’s Prepare Training® programme helps staff understand why people behave the way they do and adopt appropriate responses to a range of behaviours.

This modular behaviour management programme can be tailored to the specific needs of your organisation. It is rooted in realistic scenarios that staff face every day and uses organisational philosophy and culture to shape how staff respond in difficult circumstances.

Find out more about how CPI’s Prepare Training® programme can give staff the skills to respond early and safely to workplace violence and aggression.

Download our free eBook containing tips for a safer workplace at crisisprevention.co.uk/government.

Priority Code: GB110

CPI, Atlantic Business Centre, Atlantic Street Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 5NQ Tel: +44(0)161 929 9777 • Fax: +44(0)161 929 1881 Email: enquiries@crisisprevention.com

crisisprevention.co.uk

ADVERTISERS INDEX

The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service AJC Trailers Belvoir Lettings BIFM Boddingtons Bomford Turner Bothwell Bridge Hotel Broadwood International Charity Gift Vouchers Coin Street neighbourhood centre Complete Pool Controls Cooper Group UK Crisis Prevention Institute Crown Moran Hotel Cybex International Daikin Driver Hire Group Services Elmdene International Emak UK Fike UK Fit 2 Fite Fitness Warehouse Gas-elec Gazprom Genquip Glyn Williams Architects Hamlets Hotel & Restaurant Imperial College London IMServ IOG SALTEX Kenmore Hotel Kent Enterprise House

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Kyocera Mita La Tene Maps Leisure Industry Week Lightmain Lloyds TSB Commercial London South Bank University Waltham Abbey Marriott Hotel MIC Centre Murrayfield Stadium O2 OKI Printing Solutions Pack & Send Pullum Sports Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh R.S. Hispaniola Specsavers SportsArt Fitness St Giles Hotel Stanley UK Subway Swanley Banqueting & Conference Centre Swimco 3S Cleaners The Kingsley The Park Hotel The Rezidor Hotel Group Thistle Hotels Total Gym Software Trinity Laban Vaults Fire & Security VisitScotland Wyndham Grand

8 62 54 51 38 16 19 18 24 2 40 30 52 22 12 OBC 50 16 37 48 16 52 18 24 26 10 50 18 62 20 14

University of Surrey Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH

+

80%

of people who view our facilities book their next event with us Whether you are organising a small presentation, a large-scale meeting or an ambitious residential conference, when you choose Surrey Conferences you are in safe hands.

Our expert Events Team will work with you to tailor your event and ensure that every last detail is perfect to create a truly memorable experience for you and your guests.

We offer an array of luxurious and flexible meeting rooms equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, supported by exceptional customer service, comfortable accommodation and bespoke food choices.

Find out how we can offer our expertise for your next event.

T: +44 (0)1483 686767 E: conferences@surrey.ac.uk www.surrey.ac.uk/conferences

AT LAST, A SPENDING CUT THAT YOUR STAFF WILL BENEFIT FROM. VDU GLASSES + EYE TEST ONLY £17

Cutting your company’s spending doesn’t have to mean cutting back on the quality of staff eyecare. At Specsavers, providing staff eyecare will cost less than you might think, so you’ll be able to make valuable savings across your business – while ensuring that your employees receive excellent service and fantastic choice.

For just £17, Specsavers offers a professional eye examination and, if needed, VDU glasses worth up to £45. This includes any required retinal screening, and staff can also save £20 on their own glasses purchases. What’s more, we’ll meet all your legislative requirements too.

To find out more, call Specsavers Corporate Eyecare on 0115 933 0800, fax 0115 986 1983, email corporateeyecare@uk.specsavers.com or visit us at specsavers.co.uk/corporate

SKU 25177725. ©2011 Specsavers. All rights reserved.