Unveiling of restored statue reflects Grimsby’s inclusivity
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President’s Message
From a fairly gentle introduction to the role of Chamber President I suddenly found myself in something of a whirlwind, with two of our biggest events of the year only weeks apart. And I wouldn’t change a thing!
Of course the round of meetings of the Board, Chamber Council and Area Councils is allimportant in terms of taking the organisation forward, but they all happen in the background.
Front and centre we had the Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards and Chamber Expo, and in the Hull and Humber business community, things don’t get much bigger than that!
At the Awards it was literally a case of “lights, camera, action!” as Anne Tate, with the help of Grimsby Institute and North Lindsey College, delivered another dynamic performance from a West End show. This time it was the Lion King and it was absolutely spellbinding.
Equally impressive was the array of businesses which challenged for honours. There could only be one victor in each of the 14 categories, but it is important to remember that everyone is a winner at these events. Even those businesses which don’t make the shortlist can learn invaluable lessons about their own organisations by going through the entry process.
Chamber Expo was another diverse gathering and a great occasion, bringing the new dimensions of the Ministry of Defence and the military and showcasing advances in the motor trade with car dealers demonstrating their EV models.
So much time and effort goes into organising events like the Expo and I cannot thank David Hooper, Kay Hudson and the rest of the Chamber team enough for the work they’ve done to make it go so smoothly.
Finally, a big well done to Lorraine Holt for organising the International Trade Seminar as part of the Expo for the second year running, and it was a pleasure for me to welcome this year’s guests.
One point will stick with me personally.
The awards audience of 400 was the largest I have ever addressed, and I’ll admit I was nervous as I stepped onto the stage.
But later in the evening I was approached by one of the guests who said that, like myself, he wasn’t born in the UK, and seeing me on that stage was really inspirational for him.
That, made my evening! As the saying goes, “If I could inspire just one person…”
Kirk Akdemir
President, Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce
Chamber Patrons
As a not-for-profit organisation, the Chamber is very grateful to our Patrons, who support us in our aim to help our Members develop their businesses.
• AA Global Language Services Ltd – Gold
• Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP
• ARUP
• ASM Global
• Clugston Distribution Services Ltd
• Drax
• East Riding of Yorkshire Council
• ELLGIA Ltd
• Equinor New Energy Ltd – Gold
• Hatfields Jaguar Land Rover
• KCOM
• Kevin Greene Photography
• My… Group
• OLG
• Orsted
• Pattesons Glass
• SPS Group of Companies
• Streets Chartered Accountants
• University of Hull
• Wilkin Chapman LLP Solicitors
What’s New
Business Intelligence brings you the latest news from the Chamber and its Members.
Inspiring People dinner offers real food for thought
HullBID brought together member businesses from across the city centre for one of its flagship events which has become established as a highlight of the Humber Business Week calendar.
The Inspiring People dinner at The Deep attracted a full house of guests from a wide variety of sectors. They heard stories of challenges, resilience and success from Natasha Barley, CEO of the Sailors’ Children’s Society, Humberside Police Chief Constable Paul Anderson, and David Kilburn CBE, cofounder of MKM Building Supplies.
Guests relished the opportunity to learn from each other and to collaborate on driving the economic regeneration of the city and its surrounding area.
Pat Coyle, Chair of Humber Business Week and the Director of Marketing and Client Relations at Rollits LLP, said: “We amassed more than 40 events for biz week this year and the Inspiring People dinner was a highlight once again.
“It’s something I always look forward to because The Deep is a unique venue and the occasion brings together such a wide variety of businesses from the BID area.
“Rollits has been based in the city centre since the firm was founded over 180 years ago. We are totally rooted in Hull and we place a high value on the work of HullBID, They help to make sure we have a safe environment to work, visit, shop and eat and that’s very important to our clients, visitors and people.”
‘One of the best things you can do is invest in yourself and do some professional development’
Rory Clarke, a Non-Executive Director at J.R. Rix & Sons Limited, which relocated the headquarters of its 150-year-old business to Humber Quays in 2021, said: “The city centre has changed so much in the last 10 to 20 years
and we have one of the best locations, looking out over the marina and the Humber.
“One of the reasons we moved was to make ourselves a more attractive employer and particularly to younger people. Our staff love being here. We have learned a lot more about HullBID since we moved here and it’s a fantastic scheme which supports us and our staff brilliantly.”
The guest speakers told of their lives and careers and a common theme was their recognition of the importance of people.
Natasha Barley said: “One of the best things you can do is invest in yourself and do some professional development – having a business mentor has been a game changer for me. Also, surround yourself with good people, people who you aspire to be like, who motivate you and who support you in good and bad times.”
David Kilburn said: “We follow people because people make businesses, not buildings. If you haven’t got the right kind of people running your businesses, the people who understand what they have to do to make it successful, then you are not going to have a good business.”
Paul Anderson said: “It’s teamwork that makes you tick. Every one of those men and women who I lead wants to protect and keep people safe. They are remarkable people doing an extraordinary job and my job is to watch their back.”
The Chief Constable also underlined the importance of partnerships with HullBID and
Guests enjoy the Inspiring People dinner at The Deep in Hull
Kathryn Shillito (second from left) with some of the Inspiring Dinner supporters
other organisations. He said: “The partnership between the police and business is paramount and that means localism – dedicated officers who know local businesses who in turn talk to each other. The intelligence from this is absolutely key.”
Liz Ridley, Hull College Executive Director, Adults and Employability, said HullBID is a key partner for an organisation with 7,000 students and 500 staff at its city centre campus.
She said: “We are a big part of the local economy and HullBID really helps us engage with the business community and make sure that what we do meets their needs.”
Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, added: “You achieve so much more by working in partnership and HullBID is a great example, bringing together the business community and the City Council to get things done in the city centre.”
Kathryn Shillito, Executive Director of HullBID, was delighted with the event, and said the audience of accountants, solicitors, charities, hospitality operators, recruiters, property developers, cultural organisations and public bodies had been invited to tap into the networking opportunities available.
She said: “The turnout is testament to how HullBID is viewed as a vital conduit, putting businesses in front of each other and with decision-makers and getting things done. When businesses tell us they have made good contacts and will be working with them in the future that’s our aim achieved.”
Speakers share their experiences and ideas
A charity boss from Canada, a chief of police from Scotland and a homegrown captain of industry captivated the audience at the HullBID Inspiring People dinner with some hard-hitting revelations from childhood and their private lives, as well as some important advice from their successful careers.
Business leaders from a wide variety of public and private sector organisations delivered another full house at The Deep for an occasion which has become a highlight of Humber Business Week.
Kathryn Shillito, HullBID Executive Director, said: “The calibre of the event is all down to the calibre of the speakers, and they all opened up to share some compelling anecdotes and words of wisdom.
“It was clear from the feedback we received that our guests derive immense value from gaining access to such successful individuals, and getting the opportunity to network with each other and share experiences and ideas.”
Natasha Barley told of her work with children in the Education Business Partnership and then Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University, on the way to her current role as CEO of the Sailors’ Children’s Society, which supports families of seafarers in times of crisis.
She said: “It’s a huge transition going from a local charity to a national one and it gave me the opportunity to meet more and more phenomenal and incredible people.”
David Kilburn CBE outlined his career in the building trade, which led to him cofounding MKM Building Supplies in 1995 alongside close friend Peter Murray. Nearly
30 years on, he still plays an active role in the company and uses his significant platform to help influence and nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Despite not taking any exams at school, he got a job with Hull Savings Bank before joining a building products company. He set up his own business, sold it, was made redundant by the new owners and then launched MKM with a team of five. It now has 118 branches and 3,100 staff.
He said: “If you want to be a success don’t be a ‘me too business’. Don’t copy anybody else. What I wanted to do was make our branches better than everybody else’s. We wanted to be in locations where people would see us. We also carry a wider range of products. You can build a house from just one MKM branch.”
Paul Anderson, appointed Chief Constable of Humberside in 2023, spoke about his 34year career and in particular his force’s remarkable journey from being in special measures just six years ago to achieving an “outstanding” rating in six out of nine categories in a report released last November by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services.
He admitted they’re still “not perfect” but promised to give his all to improve matters.
“I am confident we will come out again at the top of the pack for very near because we do the basics,” he said. “There’s nothing sophisticated about us as a police force. The difference is not only do we do the basics we know what the basics are. When other forces contracted and got rid of their neighbourhood teams Humberside didn’t and never will.”
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: David Kilburn, Kathryn Shillito, Paul Anderson and Natasha Barley address guests at the Inspiring People dinner event
“I’ve always loved doing projects and this one is certainly a project,” says engineering firm director Robert Sanderson.
He’s not wrong. We’re standing on the flat roof of the first reinforced concrete-framed building to be constructed in England enjoying a spectacular 360-degree view of Hull.
Beneath us are empty floors of what was once a huge workshop for one of the city’s oldest engineering firms Rose Downs and Thompson Ltd.
Originally formed in 1777 when a foundry was established at the site to make cannons for the Royal Navy and parts for windmills, the company later became a major supplier of equipment to the global oil processing industry.
By the end of the 19th century, it commissioned a new workshop built almost entirely from reinforced concrete using a new construction system invented and patented by French engineer Francois Hennebique.
He had created a method for reinforcing concrete with steel bars to create whole framed structures, initially constructing bridges before moving onto buildings.
At the same time he also developed a business model in Britain which included regional offices housing teams of engineers and draughtsmen together with over 50 licenced building contractors to deliver projects.
The construction of the Rose Downs and Thompson workshop was overseen by Louis Mouchel, who was Hennebique’s main
On the record
These are the author’s views and not necessarily those of the Chamber.
Underpass construction is the current focus of the A63 works
Spring completion for A63
National Highways says it still aims to complete the long-running A63 improvement scheme in Hull city centre by spring next year.
The government agency’s latest progress update on the works at Castle Street follows speculation that it was running several months behind schedule.
Construction on the huge £355m project started in 2020 with an expectation that it would take around five years to finish.
However Covid and subsequent supply chain issues caused early problems. Recent poor weather has fuelled rumours that it was suffering more delays.
However, a National Highways spokesperson said: “We are currently still working towards a completion date of Spring 2025.”
The current focus of the project is on the construction of a 400m-long underpass which will eventually take east-west traffic under a new road connecting Ferensway to Commercial Road.
The new lay-out is replacing the previous Mytongate junction and has been designed to
ensure a free flow of traffic on the route to and from the city’s eastern docks.
The spokesperson added: “The major excavation works for the underpass at the Mytongate junction are continuing. In this section we are digging as deep as seven metres.
“This is followed by installation of the slabs and panels to then form the underpass and create the new bridge structure at Mytongate.
“We will also be connecting the underpass to the newly-built pumping station for the drainage solution.
“Work continues at the junction at Market Place/Queen Street. A new underpass walkway has opened at High Street, removing all pedestrian crossings across the A63 at this section.
“The final A63 roadworks and slip road completion will then take us through to the end of the project.
“The opening of the split-level junction from Ferensway to Commercial Road forms the final phases of the scheme.”
licenced agent in the UK. Mouchel is also credited with inventing the term ‘ferro concrete’ to describe the systems he worked with.
If the phrase sounds familiar, it can be seen on a commemorative plaque on Cleveland Street bridge, which once spanned Foredyke Drain.
The road bridge was built by Rose Downs and Thompson in 1902 – a year after the workshop was opened – and was the first in Britain to be constructed with reinforced concrete.
The now derelict workshop in Cannon Street owes its status as a Grade II listed building to being the first of its kind in the
With Angus Young
country rather than boasting any architectural beauty. Aside from a sadly damaged rooftop clock tower, its muscular design is entirely functional as a place of industry.
My tour guide for the afternoon is determined to revive that heritage having bought the old workshop and a disused neighbouring Victorian factory building last year.
As a director of an established family-run engineering company on the opposite side of Cannon Street, Robert Sanderson had objected to a previous scheme converting the two buildings into apartments.
“We said at the time that introducing residential into an industrial area would be wrong and I stick by that. There has been industry here for 250 years. It’s where people work and where jobs are created.
“In the end, the opportunity came along to buy a piece of adjacent land which had been proposed for new housing and during those negotiations we were offered the two buildings as well so I swallowed hard and said ‘yes’.
“The choice was either to leave them rotting away for the foreseeable future or try to do something with them from an employment point of view.”
There's more to this old building than at first meets the eye
A new planning application has recently been lodged covering both buildings, seeking a more flexible approval for their use covering potential industry, storage, office space and even an upper floor restaurant.
“I’m completely open-minded about what is possible here because there is a lot of space. It would be good to see some new workshops here or offices on the upper floors as we are looking to put in a new lift.”
“Ultimately, it’s about helping create new jobs by re-using the buildings as creatively as we can and improving access for vehicles to the site as well as showing them off a bit by opening up new views from the street.”
As well as the Hennebique workshop, the application also covers the former Bottom Shop factory building which overlooks Caroline Street.
The latter dates from 1874 and features rows of Roman-style round-windows set in red and orange brickwork. It’s a complete contrast to the concrete monolith next door and, standing inside, almost feels like being in a church.
“Personally, I prefer the appearance of the brick Bottom Shop to the Hennebique,” said Mr Sanderson. “I used to joke that it might have been better if the Luftwaffe had bombed it during the war but it’s a very strong old building and now, as its custodian, I appreciate its history and importance.
“It’s up to me to give it a future and I’m determined to give it a good go.”
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Chamber Policy
Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce is the collective ‘Voice of Business’ across the Humber region representing the views and interests of our Members at local, regional and national levels.
Former PM praises hotel’s healthy lunch
In the last days of his Premiership, former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak surprised one of our Chamber Members by staying at their hotel during his recent visit to Grimsby to take part in a Party Leaders’ debate in the run-up to the General Election on 4 July.
Samantha Cook (pictured), who runs the Hampton by Hilton hotel at Humberside Airport was thrilled to have Mr Sunak and his team staying at her hotel before the debate which was held at Grimsby Town Hall and broadcast to the nation. “We didn’t know he was arriving until the last minute as he booked in under an alias name – the timings and security were really strict,” she said.
“He was very friendly, as were his whole team travelling with him.
“He had a Caesar salad for his lunch with tomato and basil soup, humous and olives. He said it was the first buffet lunch he had eaten where he had such healthy food.
“The security team came first to check out the hotel and surroundings and check his bedroom before he arrived.
“They were all so appreciative and complimentary – it was a pleasure to have them staying at the hotel and to get an insight into what goes on behind the scenes when a Prime Minister is on the campaign trail.”
Asked what else she saw during the visit, Samantha revealed: “There were loads of other things that happened during his visit, but I don’t think we can print them as a lot of it has to stay secret, but I can probably tell you that when it rained the security team went and dried all the cars before he got back in!
“It was very exciting for me and all the staff to have the former Prime Minister and his team staying in the hotel, even if it was only for a short period of time.”
Council Leader offers update on key projects
The Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council was the speaker at the Chamber’s June Area Council meeting held at Stallingborough Grange Hotel.
Cllr Philip Jackson, who is an Honorary Member of the Chamber of Commerce, updated members of the Chamber’s North East Lincolnshire Area Council, chaired by Vice President Irene Keal, on progress and plans for the resort, highlighting the tens of millions of pounds being invested in the area.
Cllr Jackson reminded members how much money is being spent on numerous schemes in and around the local authority area, including £38.4m from the Levelling Up fund, £33m in the South Humber Industrial Investment Programme (SHIIP) which prepares land for inward investors, £119m for highway capital, £15m seed capital for South Humber Bank growth and £17.3m Future High Streets Fund which was used to purchase Freshney Place and provide a multitude of successful culture, arts and heritage grant schemes.
‘The Council is moving as many staff as it can into the town centre to increase footfall and reduce its carbon footprint’
Cllr Jackson said the Port of Grimsby is the largest established offshore winder cluster in the UK which is bringing new jobs, and in answer to a question, told the meeting that the Novartis site had been bought by a US company which specialises in repurposing disused chemicals plants, although their plans for the site were unknown at this stage.
In Grimsby, a new NHS diagnostic centre was being built in Freshney Place which would bring footfall into the shopping centre and this alone was expected to bring 120,000 people into the town centre once it opened in the Autumn this year. The House of Fraser building was also being considered for potential new uses.
Work on the new five screen cinema and food and beverage outlets was also getting under way. The old Market Hall will soon be demolished to make way for the cinema and a new transport hub would be created in
Osborne Street, although there was no funding yet to transform that.
Work on the Grade II listed Corporation Bridge was continuing, but it was taking a long time to restore as it had not had any maintenance for many years so as they progressed, more problems had been unearthed, but it was hoped it would still reopen later this year.
The Council is also looking for potential new uses for the top floors above the Central Library, and the Doughty Road Depot will be the new home to refuse vehicles as they are moved in to the town centre and away from Pyewipe where they are currently based.
Cllr Jackson also discussed the redevelopment of the Pier Gardens which would be undertaken as part of the Cleethorpes Masterplan, along with more pedestrianisation of the resort’s Market Place, while work on the iconic new building on the site of the old Submarine pub opposite the Pier had now received planning permission.
He said the Council is moving as many staff as it can into the town centre to increase footfall and reduce its carbon footprint.
The Chair of the Chamber’s North East Lincolnshire Area Council, Irene Keal, thanked Cllr Jackson for his exciting update on all the plans for the county, adding that she looked forward to seeing things progress and enhance the area for all of its residents.
Cllr Jackson – lots of exciting developments in North East Lincolnshire
Goole Members seeing double!
The latest Goole Members meeting saw the cream of Goole Town Council in attendance in the shape of two Mayors.
Cllr David Jeffreys has just handed over the Mayoral Chains to milkman Cllr Anthony Raspin, who said he was very honoured to be the new Mayor of Goole.
The new town Mayor, who built up his business from an initial round of around 400 to now nearly 1,000 customers, told the meeting he was honoured to represent the Council at the Cenotaph recently and had already been involved with several events which had been fantastic and there were lots more plans for the rest of the year.
Cllr Raspin said: “The Rose Garden has been improved and the Council had done a lot or work with British Sign Language and had done much to make the parks more accessible for the visually impaired.
Cllr Raspin told the meeting he was really enjoying being the Mayor so far and would like to get a lot more involved in the delivery of the Goole Town Deal and that the main thing for him was to improve connectivity and communication between Goole Town Council and the East Riding of Yorkshire Council. He was looking forward to meeting a lot of new people and has already met the Lord Lieutenant for the East Riding, Jim Dick OBE.
The Mayor has chosen a cancer support charity for his year of office to help people
going through tough times. He believed there was a really good council at the moment.
Cllr Jeffreys said: “I really enjoyed my year as Mayor and I think this is the most active council we’ve had for years. The Hopper Bus was going well, the Victoria Pleasure Ground cost was going up and was now about £2m, and that was ongoing and will happen.”
The Market Hall had recently hosted 400 people for a boxing match and Cllr Jeffreys said he and his Consort had been invited as guests of honour. The wrestling had also gone well and
they were hoping to build on that. It had been a pleasure to work with the boxing club, he said.
The Mayor added: “I just want to do my best in my year as Mayor for Goole, there is so much going on here at the moment. The BiCentenary is coming up soon and we are trying to get the local businesses involved, but it is going to take a lot of organising. We are hoping to get the King and Queen to attend which would be great for the town’s profile. There are plans to bring everyone together and make it a really big community event.”
Economy showing signs of improvement
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Forecast has slightly upgraded growth expectations for 2024 and 2025, following a stronger start to the year. However, the forecast for 2026 remains unchanged.
UK Economic Outlook
The UK economy is expected to continue its recovery after the short recession at the end of 2023, but long-term growth is unlikely to be strong. After a weak 2023, growth for 2024 and 2025 has been revised upwards for the second forecast running, to 0.8% and 1.0% respectively, with 2026 remaining at 1.0%.
But the overall profile remains flat, as a poor outlook for exports acts as a drag anchor and high interest rates continue to limit investment. This comes as BCC surveys continue to show most SMEs are still not increasing their investment.
While CPI inflation should dip below the Bank of England’s 2% target this year, it is expected to rise again to 2.3% across Q4 2024. It is also forecast to be slightly above target in Q4 2025 at 2.1% and 2.2% in Q4 2026.
Small upwards revision to quarterly GDP
Growth in the first half of 2024 is now expected to be comparatively strong, as the economy improves back after the short recession.
The ONS has estimated growth of 0.6% for Q1 and the BCC is forecasting 0.4% for Q2. However, this is not expected to last, with growth slowing to 0.3% in Q3, and 0.2% for the next five quarters
after that. Overall, the expectations for 2024 and 2025 are both up by 0.3%, to 0.8% and 1.0% respectively.
But with global headwinds remaining, interest rates falling slowly and only a gradual expansion in consumer spending, the BCC expects growth to remain subdued – holding at 1.0% for 2026.
Outlook for trade remains very weak
The poor outlook for trade is also holding the economy back, with both imports and exports contracting in 2024 by -1.9% and –1.7% respectively, before a gradual bounce back in 2025 and 2026.
However, with CPI inflation set to stay low and interest rates slowly falling, the BCC does expect business investment to steadily increase across the three years of the forecast. There will be a rise of 0.8% in 2024, 1.3% in 2025 and 2.0% in 2026.
Commenting on the forecast, Vicky Pryce, Chair of the BCC Economic Advisory Council, said: “The BCC’s latest forecast shows there is life in the UK economy but if it is to gain momentum then it must be nurtured.
“With interest rates expected to be cut at a modest pace and pay outstripping inflation, businesses will be holding onto much of their money – even as confidence rises after the mini-recession.
“As we enter the final weeks of the general election campaign, businesses will be watching for politicians to show they have sustainable long term economic plans. These must play to the UK’s strengths and gives companies confidence.”
The new Mayor of Goole, Cllr Anthony Raspin, with last year’s Mayor, Cllr David Jeffreys at the Goole Members Meeting at The Courtyard in Goole
Chamber Policy
Forum puts focus on tech skills
As part of The Humber Business Week, the Hull & East Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (HEY LSIP) team held its third quarterly forum of the year at Hull College. This time it focused on Themes 1 and 2 of the LSIP –technical skills & educational teaching professionals.
Once again over 80 delegates registered to attend to hear from Mike Ellis, Managing Director of 43 Clicks North, Liz Ridley and Deb Millar of Hull College, as well as regular LSIP updates and roundtable discussions.
Mike took the time to talk to those in attendance about the need for literacy in online marketing to help identify the right platforms that can help your business grow effectively. To improve this, more training for business leaders, a commercial focus with training for apprentices and young professionals and a move of focus from platform to theory are needed.
Liz Ridley, Executive Director for Adults and Employability at Hull College discussed the gaps in education in terms of ensuring there are enough professionals to deliver the courses business needs.
The success of the LSIP is very much based on collaboration. With its priority sectors of Agri-Skills, Construction, Engineering Construction, Health & Social Care and Manufacturing, as well as the cross-cutting themes of Digital and Net Zero it is conscious of critical areas where it needs to address this issue in education for sustainability, engineering, construction, digital skills and 21st century skills. There are opportunities for the industry experts to get involved by delivering masterclasses, co-delivery of curriculum with existing staff and apprenticeship coaches. Business can also engage with the existing and future workforce
through guest lecturing and part-time teaching.
‘Once
again we have seen employers discuss the importance
of employability and transferable skills’
The forum then turned to AI and its uses within education. Deb Millar, Executive Director of Digital Transformation at Hull College gave an insightful presentation and revealed statistics that demonstrate the changes in technology and how that impacts on skills requirements. According to ONS data, roughly 45.92% of all jobs in Hull are at risk of automation. We are seeing the likes of the most important skills required in business being creative thinking, analytical thinking and technological literacy.
Delegates sharing their thoughts on current skills gaps and addressing those challenges
According to the World Economic Forum’s The Future of Jobs Report 2023, some 83 million current jobs may be displaced by machines and algorithms between 2023-2027. At the same time, the report predicts the emergence of 69 million new jobs based on innovation and distinctly human traits. When it comes to AI, the data speaks for itself in terms of its importance. According to Gallup Q2 Quarterly Workforce Study in May 2023, 71% of leaders said they were more likely to hire a less experienced worker with AI aptitude rather than a more experienced worker without. Despite this, seven in 10 employees said they never use AI in their day to day work. How this will change, time will only tell.
SME exporters trapped in the doldrums
The Trade Confidence Outlook, conducted by the BCC’s Insights Unit, is a survey of more than 2,000 UK SME exporters. It shows the percentage of SME exporters reporting increased exports has been static since the pandemic, and has weakened slightly since the end of 2023. SMEs are less likely to report increased exports compared to before the pandemic and Brexit.
In Q4 2018, 28% of SME exporters reported an increase in overseas sales (four points higher than Q1 2024) and 16% reported a decrease (seven points lower than Q1 2024).
By contrast, domestic demand for SME exporters remains consistently more buoyant, with 35% reporting an increase in domestic sales Q1 2024, against just 24% for overseas
sales. The proportion of businesses reporting decreased overseas sales began to rise in the run up to Brexit and has remained stubbornly higher ever since.
The situation is more volatile for SME manufacturers than other sectors, with 27% reporting an increase in exports, 46% no change and 27% a decrease.
This compares to SME services exporters supplying end customers (B2C), where 22% saw an increase, 51% remained constant and 27% saw a decrease. Firms supplying services to other businesses (B2B) saw the most stable performance – with 22% reporting an increase in exports, 59% seeing no change and only 18% reporting a decrease.
William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at
the
BCC, said: “The outlook remains fragile for 2024, notwithstanding forecasts of stronger global trade growth, due to ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and growing concerns about the resilience of supply chains.
“There is also the spectre of further trade barriers with the EU, as the UK’s regulatory divergence increases.
“But the UK’s brand and competitiveness remain strong, so we must lean more heavily into the advantages we possess. We are already a world leader when it comes to digital trade, and we must continue to push for its wider uptake. Business needs to work with Government to put in place a framework that makes use of all the advantages the UK has, to keep us at the top table, and to access incentives for our exports overseas.”
Deb Millar presenting to the HEY LSIP Forum
Member News
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latest news, success
stories and updates from members of Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce.
Ideal enjoys a golden moment at RoSPA awards
Leading UK manufacturer Ideal Heating has received a prestigious national award that underlines the company’s exceptional commitment to health and safety.
The RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) Gold Award represents the ultimate symbol of achievement in health and safety performance.
Ideal Heating entered the awards for the first time this year and, unusually, has received the top Gold award on the first occasion.
As one of Hull’s largest employers, with more than 800 staff working at its National Avenue headquarters, achieving RoSPA Gold highlights Ideal Heating’s continuous investment in the safety and wellbeing of its workforce.
Representatives from Ideal Heating attended a glittering ceremony, held at London’s five star JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel, to receive the coveted Gold award.
The award is dedicated to all of Hull-based Ideal Heating’s operational teams who work hard every day to keep each other safe.
Susan Debnam, OHS (Occupational Health and Safety) Manager, UK, for Groupe Atlantic, parent company of Ideal Heating, said: “To be awarded a RoSPA Gold award at the very first attempt is testament to the
dedication and hard work of so many colleagues across the business.
“RoSPA Gold recognises Ideal Heating as one of the safest places to work in the region. From senior leadership to the production teams who manufacture our market-leading heating solutions, health and safety is of paramount importance in everything we do.
‘We’re constantly striving to improve our processes, and engage with colleagues and external partners to implement positive change’
“While RoSPA Gold recognises the fantastic work we’ve already done, we’re constantly striving to improve our processes, and engage with colleagues and external partners to implement positive change and drive excellence in health and safety.”
RoSPA recognises organisations, teams and projects which have an unwavering commitment to protecting lives.
Ideal Heating was examined and assessed across a broad range of criteria, including its safety record, training and leadership, staff engagement and accreditations.
The business has had zero Health and Safety
Executive (HSE) enforcement or interaction over the past five years, with no serious injuries being reported.
Ideal Heating’s Time Out annual programme provides staff with bitesize training courses including in health and safety, with more than 200 managers and supervisors completing monthly training and then cascading this down to teams and colleagues.
Senior leadership at Ideal Heating are involved in daily health and safety meetings with managers, discussing any feedback from colleagues and implementing positive change across all operations.
Also assessed as part of the RoSPA award were occupational consultant reports for items such as noise and chemical monitoring, staff engagement and the level of expertise in health and safety demonstrated by Ideal Heating.
Matt Cryer, Head of Awards at RoSPA, said: “These awards honour not only achievements, but the tireless efforts of individuals and organisations dedicated to making our world safer for everyone.”
Above left: Representatives from Ideal Heating attended a glittering RoSPA ceremony at London’s five-star JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel.
Above: Susan Debnam (left) Occupational Health and Safety Manager ,and Debbie Skalli, HR Director, receiving the RoSPA Gold award
Grim statue takes pride of place
By Anne Tate
The Chamber was pleased to be invited to attend the unveiling of the restored statue of Grim.
The historic Grim and Havelock statue that once stood for 30 years on the Grimsby Institute site, fondly known to many over the age of 40, is now back. Having been locked away for two decades as it became a target for vandals, it lay in a state of disrepair until 2017 when a group of people, led by The Equality Practice, a local social enterprise that works to ensure people understand the benefits of practising Inclusion, came together to try to bring the statue back.
‘We believed the legend of Grim and Havelock was a great way to promote Inclusion’
Jill Wilson, a co-founder of The Equality Practice, said: “We were entrusted with the statue in 2018, and because we believed the legend of Grim and Havelock was a great way to promote Inclusion, the statue therefore was a great vehicle to retell the story and promote the idea of value and respect, inclusion, regardless of difference.”
Grim, as the legend goes, was a Danish Fish Merchant who rescued the small child Prince Havelock from certain death, putting himself and his whole family in danger, hence they had to flee Denmark.
In their fishing boat they crossed the North Sea and made their way up the Humber to eventually settle on the south shores. Grim brought his entrepreneurial skills and grew his fishing business, selling as far as Lincoln. His reputation grew, along with the success and size of the town, and so it is believed by some that this is where Grimsby got its name.
Today, whether born here or arrived here, we can say (tongue in cheek) that we either share the DNA of a great legend, or we tread in the footsteps of one.
Grim was restored by a Louth businessman Will Hennessy at his own expense as a gift to the people of Grimsby. The statue could initially be seen in Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre and has now moved to Freeman Street Market, which will be its new and permanent home.
Inspiring scientists of future
Eight budding young scientists from Hull have been given a unique opportunity to share their inspiring ideas with the leaders behind some of the world’s biggest and best-loved brands.
World-leading health, hygiene and nutrition business Reckitt held a Festival of Science as part of its second global The Science Inside Symposium. The three-day symposium brought together 250 Reckitt scientists, partners and leaders from across the globe, in person and online, live from the company’s Hull Campus.
During the Festival of Science, four teams of year 12 engineering students from Hull’s Ron Dearing University Technical College (UTC) presented their ideas on how Reckitt could become more sustainable in its approach to water, heating, transport and waste to the company’s Global Research and Development (R&D) Leadership Team, led by Chief R&D Officer Dr Angela Naef.
In a separate session, organised through Reckitt’s partnership with Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University, year five pupils from Rokeby Park Primary School in Hull were asked to share their ideas on creating a new Reckitt product, or modify an existing one, focusing on target customers, packaging and sustainability.
The Festival of Science celebrated the power of science and aimed to inspire the next generation of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) leaders.
The winning Ron Dearing UTC teams, voted by Reckitt experts, will have one-to-one sessions in coming weeks with the company’s sustainability experts, as prizes for Best
“I hope all of the children went home and shared their day with their families and loved ones and were able to shine in that moment because of the experience they had. But I also know we went home with those stories and memories too. It’s amazing to feel inspired and excited by this event and their ideas.”
The Science Inside Symposium incorporated Reckitt’s annual Sustainability Conference, reflecting the importance of science in developing sustainable solutions for a greener future.
The event was supported by The Sir James Reckitt Charity, which was founded by industrialist, Quaker and philanthropist Sir James more than 100 years ago.
The involvement of young people in the event underlined Reckitt’s commitment to inspiring and nurturing the next generation of scientists, especially in the city where the business was founded 184 years ago.
Innovation and Best Presentation.
Youngsters from Rokeby Park Primary School will be given a medal and awards for Best Innovation, Best Packaging Design and Best Presentation, alongside a donation from Reckitt for new science equipment at the school.
Dr Naef said: “I’m always blown away by the creativity and boundless, unexpected ideas the students share with us. It’s this little gift of great imagination.
“I fundamentally believe the responsibility of professionals, like us, is to be role models to the next generation. This is the opportunity and responsibility we have to continue to build the future of scientists, engineers and experts.
Since its humble beginnings as a starch mill in Hull in 1840, Reckitt has grown to become the globally trusted business it is today, and its brands, including Dettol, Gaviscon, Nurofen, Strepsils, Vanish and more, are household names.
Glenn Jensen, Senior Assistant PrincipalEmployer Engagement at Ron Dearing UTC, of which Reckitt is a Founding Partner, said: “This opportunity from Reckitt is so important because it helps our students to build resilience and confidence, while also allowing innovation to flow freely.
“We’re incredibly proud of our students’ ideas and efforts, and also grateful to everyone at Reckitt.”
MAIN PICTURE: Pupils from Rokeby Park Primary School in Hull pictured with Reckitt Chief R&D Officer Dr Angela Naef and members of the company’s R&D Leadership Team during the Festival of Science
ABOVE: Dr Angela Naef (left) and Dr Bruce Charlesworth, Chief Medical Officer and Hull Campus Lead at Reckitt, with engineering students from Ron Dearing University Technical College
City centre hosts Superhero Day
Abusiness that was selling American comic books even before Superman was created joined the attractions on the streets of Hull city centre, when Superhero Day returned in May.
Dinsdales Joke & Trick Shop of Hepworth Arcade lined up alongside an array of other city centre retail and leisure business for the event, which was organised by HullBID - but owner Graham Williams revealed his business is the only one which pre-dates the superheroes who inspired the occasion.
He told how George William Dinsdale originally opened the shop 94 years ago to sell and repair records, but the evolution of music radio prompted him to think again and he ventured into comic books.
Graham said: “He became concerned that people wouldn’t buy records any more because they could listen to them for nothing on the radio.”
An old publicity photograph showed that George, who was Graham’s great-uncle, was known as ‘The Record King’ and promised to be ‘first with the latest’ music releases. He pivoted to pulp magazines when he found he could get copies of Adventure, an American action fiction title which he sourced from dockers who had found them on ships arriving in Hull.
Graham said: “The magazines were inexpensive and there were so many of them that the crew used them as ballast. I don’t know how many he had but he displayed them outside the shop.”
Superhero Day took place on Friday 31 May with free, family fun starting in Queen Victoria Square, with compere Darren
Lethem taking to the stage to entertain the crowds with games and prizes.
The activities extended throughout the city centre with children encouraged to dress up as their favourite superheroes and fans young and old got the chance to have their photographs taken with the likes of Superman, Spiderman, Wonder Woman, Iron Man and Batman. Other attractions included a giant Hulk statue, free face painting and mask making at The Prospect Centre, giveaways and competitions.
Kathryn Shillito, HullBID Executive Director, said Superhero Day had been scheduled to offer families affordable entertainment during the half-term holidays.
“Last year we saw footfall rise by 27% week on week, with some businesses experiencing up to a 100% increase in revenue. All our events are designed to support businesses by attracting people into the city centre and Superhero Day is a great way to start, with more attractions planned as we head into the summer.”
Broadband provider is making a connection
Rural broadband provider Quickline has won a prestigious national award that celebrates the positive impact it makes on the communities it serves.
In 2023, East Yorkshire-based Quickline launched its QFutures programme, with a clear focus on giving back to the communities it connects with its network of fibre and fixed wireless broadband.
In the past 12 months, QFutures has helped to deliver more than £13m of social value in community-based projects across rural Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.
Initiatives have included educating pupils on the dangers of online security, supporting digital literacy and skills classes and hosting a variety of community events for residents and businesses to enjoy and benefit from.
The positive impact of QFutures was celebrated at the 2024 UK Fibre Awards,
where Quickline won the award for Best Community Support Project.
Held at London’s Marriott Grosvenor Square hotel, the UK Fibre Awards brings together more than 500 representatives from across the broadband industry.
Sean Royce, CEO at Quickline, said: “We’re
committed to leaving a long-term, lasting legacy on the communities we serve.
“By investing in education and skills development, we’re empowering individuals to thrive in the digital age, driving economic growth and supporting the sustainability and prosperity of rural communities for generations to come.
“We’re delighted that QFutures was recognised at the 2024 UK Fibre Awards. Congratulations to all of our team who have made the programme such an enormous success, delivering valuable projects for rural communities across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.
“Over the coming months and years, we’ll be delivering countless more projects such as these, as well as supporting the Government with its commitment to make gigabit-capable broadband available in even the hardest-toreach areas.”
Quickline staff at the 2024 UK Fibre Awards
Graham Williams at Superhero Day in 2023
Wonder Woman, Superman and Spiderman from the Big Foot Events team that presented Superhero Day
The PRX advantage: Your partner in foreign trade
PRX International is a consultancy company that specialises in foreign trade. Our services are available to governmental organisations, export-related NGOs, and private independent firms. We have been operating since 2006 and have grown to have a network of over 12,500 companies in more than 120 countries. Specialising in business development and improvement, we help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) belonging to various industries to bring down their expenses, manage their resources right, and deliver the results in a timely way. We are an accredited member of BExA, an organisation that helps UK-based companies increase their trade capacity. In 2021, PRX International was awarded the title Best Foreign Trade Consultancy firm in the UK.
Our expertise areas in international trade
We help our customers by finding buyers in their targeted markets and then negotiating and selling on their behalf. We take care of all aspects of the operation, from marketing our client's product to organising the delivery of orders to the purchaser. The most important thing is that the purchaser sends payment for the goods directly to our client. This means that we don't have to be involved in reinvoicing to the purchaser, which sets us apart from other consultancy service providers. In the medium term, our goal is to help our clients develop their export skills so that they can grow their market share and explore further export opportunities in the long term.
How international trade changing The development of technology is causing a complete transformation in traditional export
methods and systems. From finding customers to banking and logistics processes, new solutions are emerging that can significantly affect costs. Adopting these solutions can give you an edge over your competitors in the international market.
On the other hand, in today's global political climate, many countries are trying to impose hidden or open restrictions on imports. This makes it imperative for exporters to stay updated with the latest information and plan their market strategies accordingly.
At PRX, one of our primary focuses is to help our partners reduce their costs and gain a competitive edge in the global market. We achieve this by identifying the most suitable cost-saving solutions for our partners.
Additionally, we keep a close eye on all the latest developments around the world, using both open and closed sources. This ensures that our partners are always up-to-date and well-informed to make the right business decisions.
The PRX way PRX International founder and general manager Sahin Ozcan (pictured) believes that foreign trade consultancy firms offer the fastest and most cost-effective way to grow foreign trade and gain a competitive advantage in the global market. It's important, however, to distinguish between brokers/traders and foreign trade consultancy firms. Consulting firms act as a catalyst for your trade - they don't increase your price, but they do decrease your cost and speed up your processes. You get paid directly and deliver goods to your final customer, while the consultant manages and completes the entire process.
At PRX, we have a highly experienced and well-trained team, along with agents in almost a hundred countries. We're excited to help you grow your business by analysing markets and expanding your reach globally. We'd be delighted to meet with you and explore how we can work together as partners at PRX International.
The Dezaro Limited projects team take their hats off to their maritime logistics team for their unwavering dedication.
We understand that complex projects require precise coordination, expert management and tailored solutions. Our project logistics services are designed to meet these demands, ensuring the seamless movement of oversized, heavy, and high-value cargo to and from any location worldwide.
With over 15 years of experience, we offer a complete portfolio of services to handle the door-to-door movement of turnkey projects, from the largest equipment to the nuts and bolts. Regardless of your project scale, we pledge an unparalleled commitment to safety, proficiency, and reliable coordination of your operational needs.
From the inception stage to the ultimate delivery, we meticulously oversee every aspect, ensuring the timely and cost-effective completion of your project.
The team successfully exported whole automotive factory movement covering extensive operation covering flat racks, open top containers, maffies and breakbulk services from the UK to Turkey. Challenges like site surveys, police permits, escorts and customs clearances for such heavyweight cargo were expertly navigated. The team handled the entire process perfectly from loading at site to transportation to the port of loading.
Their involvement spanned from receiving the cargo from load sites to port storage, coordinating customs clearances, direct collection of units and loading onto flat racks and break bulk vessels, ensuring a smooth and efficient process at every turn.
The Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards a ‘roaring’ success
Pictures by Gary Davies Photography
The Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce was proud to host the 2024 Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards.
This year the back tie gala dinner and presentation evening was held at Grimsby Auditorium. The headline sponsors and partners of the Awards were Phillips 66 and the Dinner Sponsor was Andrew Jackson, with Ellgia acting as Awards Patrons.
There were 14 awards in total and around 400 guests turned out to see who the outright winners would be from the three final nominees being honoured on the night and who would be the runners-up.
As well as the main awards there were also two special awards made on the evening. A Lifetime Achievement Award was given by the Chamber to Mike Parker for amazing work done predominantly in the seafood industry and service to his local Grimsby community, for which he has also been awarded an MBE.
‘The quality and range of the nominations this year demonstrates the kudos of these awards’
There was also a special Chamber award for Dave Laister, who has served these awards well over an 18 year period during his reign over all things business for Reach plc. His exceptional journalistic talents combined with fair and thorough reporting have been respected throughout the whole area and he is sorely missed. The ultimate accolade of the evening – one the judges choose from all entries and sponsored by Forrester Boyd –went to XCeco Ltd.
Chamber President Kirk Akdemir welcomed guests to the event. Commenting on the nominations, he said: “To be a shortlisted finalist is an achievement in itself and all those here tonight should be very proud. The quality and range of the nominations this year demonstrates the kudos of these awards, the tenacity of business in
Mike Parker receives his Lifetime Achievement Award from Chamber President Kirk Akdemir
Grimsby Institute students gave a noisy display of Dwembe drumming at the start of the show
Dave Laister receiving his award from Chamber President Kirk Akdemir
Business Awards 2024 Winners
Universities of Hull & Lincoln Small Business Award Cars of Grimsby Ltd
Pattesons Glass Business Growth Award Cartwright Vehicle Conversions
Wilkin Chapman Business Person of the Year Award
Michelle Harness, Scunthorpe United Football Club
Bridge McFarland LLP Excellence in the Community Award Ongo Communities
North East Lincolnshire Business Development Award Xceco Ltd
North Lincolnshire Business Investment Award
Hunt Leisure Limited
Grimsby Institute Training Excellence Award
Bacon Engineering
Pepperells Innovation Award SC4 (UK) Ltd
The HETA Green Sustainability Award Southern Trident Limited
these difficult times and the talent we have in the region across so many successful businesses. A night to celebrate for everyone.”
The theme of the evening was The Lion King and professional performers from the London stage joined local students from Grimsby Institute and North Lindsey College in a fabulous after dinner show, kicked off by
a display of Dwembe drumming from Grimsby Institute students.
Guests enjoyed a three-course themed meal courtesy of the Lincolnshire Chef, Steven Bennett, who also sponsored a sparkling wine drinks reception and canapés.
See next two pages for more awards pictures...
The Sylvester Keal Young Business Person of the Year Award Jack Lobaczewski, RSUK Group
DN Colleges New Business Award AB Security Solutions Ltd
Forrester Boyd Business of the Year Xceco Ltd
Lifetime Achievement Award Mike Parker
Special Award for journalism and service to the Northern Lincolnshire business community
Dave Laister
These glamorous stilt-walkers welcomed guests to the awards night
PICTURE CAPTIONS
1. Charity representatives from both St Andrew’s Hospice and Lindsey Lodge Hospice joined south bank Chairs, Irene Keal and Paul Cooper, to help with collecting in raffle monies at the recent Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards Dinner. The sum of £2415 was raised to be split equally between the two charities. Thanks go to those companies who donated generous prizes for the raffle
2. North East Lincolnshire Business Development Award winners, Xceco Ltd
3. The Chamber’s Immediate Past President Albert Weatherill with staff Dave Hooper and Kay Hudson
4. A guest capturing some of The Lion King action
5. Guests enjoying the VIP reception as the evening gets underway
6. North Lincolnshire Business Investment Award winners, Hunt Leisure Limited
7. DN Colleges New Business Award winners, AB Security Solutions Ltd 8. The cast enthrall the audience during their Lion King performance
9. Wilkin Chapman Business Person of the Year Award winner,
10. Bridge McFarland LLP Excellence in the Community Award winners, Ongo Communities
11. The HETA Green Sustainability Award winners, Southern Trident Limited
12. Richard Askam was the host on the night
13. The Sylvester Keal Young Business Person of the Year Award winner,
Michelle Harness
Jack Lobaczewski
Spotlight Feature
In this issue we take a look at the Health In The Workplace and Workforce Development & Training sectors.
Ensuring your staff’s health needs are met
If you owned a Rolls Royce, (yes, we can all dream) would you really take it to a local back street garage for a service, when it makes more sense to visit the specialist dealer who understands that particular model of vehicle extremely well, and has the exact tools to do the best job? While many brokers may ‘dabble’ in private medical insurance and employee benefits, Jo Wood (pictured) of Health Insurance Brokers specialises in this area, and has a vast range of knowledge and experience reaching back over more than 30 years.
With NHS waiting lists at an all-time high, if someone needed nonurgent surgery, they’d currently be joining a queue of over 7.5 million people, and it could be many months before they’re back on their feet again. To help alleviate the extra burden on a workforce when an employee is out of action, many companies take out private medical insurance to speed up treatment for their management or staff.
As with all protection products, the advice of a broker makes a lot of sense and thanks to her access to the whole of the market, including several ‘niche’ providers, Jo can find the most appropriate product to suit both the requirements and budget of her clients. Even if someone already has cover and isn’t looking to move, it may be possible to use market feedback to obtain a better premium on their behalf, and to renew the policy with minimal disruption.
As an example of how her expertise can help, one of Jo’s clients had been told by their insurer (incorrectly) that they couldn’t ever move providers as one of the members had previously claimed for cancer. Jo was able to not only improve the benefits on the policy, but reduce the premium by around 50%, with no further exclusions being added to the members’ cover.
Jo knows first-hand how the lack of treatment when it's needed can have a huge impact on all areas of a person's life, and there’s never been a more crucial time to support the NHS by using the private sector for nonurgent surgery etc.
“If private medical insurance had been available to my husband many years ago, his life could have gone in a very different direction.” said Jo. “Unfortunately, when he needed treatment on his knee, he waited nine months to see a consultant on the NHS and a further six months for an operation. By this time, he was unable to work
and had begun to suffer with depression, which has continued to plague him ever since, and has had a huge impact on his general well-being.”
Medical insurance products are now so ‘modular’ it’s possible to tailor a product to suit a client much easier than in the past. Plus, there are huge discounts available for ‘company’ schemes which, with some insurers, can start from just one employee.
Even if an individual or employer can’t afford a full private medical insurance policy, there are other options available, such as health cash plans which can include the cost of private specialist consultations, along with everyday health expenses including dental and optical costs.
A healthy workforce is the most important part of any business and, if a company has just two partners, and one of those takes a long-term absence due to illness, that’s a possible 50% drop in the company’s productivity.
The benefits of strategic workforce planning
Spotlight Feature: Workforce Development & Training
For employers, issues such as the ongoing skills shortage, ageing workforces and stiff competition for the best talent means that you might not have the workforce to take your business into the future. This is where strategic workforce planning comes in. In essence, this means analysing your current staffing levels and anticipating your future needs to ensure that you have exactly the right people for the job. As well as helping you uncover the training needs of your current employees, strategic workforce planning will also help you align your recruitment strategy with your longterm goals. But where to start? Business Intelligence offers its top tips.
Consider your goals
If strategic workforce planning is about making sure your people are able to deliver your company’s goals, a natural first step is to identify the short-, medium- and long-term objectives. Once you’ve figured out what you want to achieve, you can identify what you need in terms of the right skills and talent. It’s important to include your stakeholders, HR and senior management in this stage as they can all help you identify and outline your goals and the skills you need.
Assess your current workforce
What kind of shape is your workforce in? What people and skills do you already have in your organisation and, more importantly, what skills are missing? When it comes to analysing your current workforce, there are two key areas to focus on:
1. Quality: Assess your employees on their current performance and future potential. Is anyone holding you back? Conversely, are there any breakout stars brimming with great ideas?
2. Quantity: Assess how big your workforce is, paying particular attention to employee turnover, the effectiveness of your recruitment campaigns and the frequency of internal promotions.
Finding and filling skills gaps
Once you’ve a clearer idea of how many staff you have and the skills you have on board you will be able to
better identify current and future skills gaps. If you have, for example, many staff of retiring age, you can begin to seriously think about how you can fill the gaps they’ll leave behind. Will it be more economical to promote and train existing staff, or do you need to bring in new blood with fresh ideas in order to reach your goals?
As well as traditional recruitment methods, there are other options such as apprenticeships and training schemes.
Preparing for the future
How will future technology, automation and other advancements affect your workforce needs?
Of course, you can’t predict the future, but strategic workforce planning should help you better anticipate future trends.
It’s perhaps unavoidable that some roles will become obsolete, but rather than making entire teams redundant (which would have a massive impact on staff morale) you can begin a training and re-skilling programme to move key players into new roles in order to keep the best talent.
Remember that strategic workforce planning requires frequent monitoring. The modern business environment is constantly changing – as technology adapts, so does the customer.
If you want to stay ahead of the competition, you need to make sure you always have the best possible workforce at your disposal.
‘You can’t predict the future, but strategic workforce planning should help you better anticipate future trends’
Focus on: Chamber Expo 2024
Attention! Expo partnership with military hits target with exhibitors
The Chamber’s Expo marched on to yet more success this year thanks to a partnership with the Ministry of Defence, 150 Regiment of the Royal Logistic Corp and the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Yorkshire and The Humber.
Some of the region’s best motor dealers were also on a charge, with the Chamber’s own Motor Show lining up alongside some military vehicles outside which together mobilised lots of attention.
The huge combined event was part of Humber Business Week 2024 which also played host to the Chamber’s second International Trade Conference and was held at the Mercure Hull Grange Park Hotel, Willerby, Hull, HU10 6EB.
The Chamber Motor Show featured mostly new electric cars and vans from motor dealers including Summit Vans, Evans Halshaw Citroen and Vauxhall Hull, who brought along some of their latest models, including the Vauxhall Corsa Electric and a Vivaro Van, while Citroen were represented by an e-C4 and a e-Berlingo van. Other dealers included Stratstone BMW and Mini, Riverside Motor Group and JCT600 Van Centre Hull.
Businesses from both banks of the Humber were represented, and the speaker for the VIP lunch was Honorary Colonel Simon BanksCooper, who spoke passionately about how the cadets they work with turn into well-rounded young people which makes them the perfect
choice for employers looking for apprentices or trainees, while former service personnel also bring unique and valuable skill sets to companies looking for reliable team members.
The Chamber would like to thank its sponsors for their support with this year’s event, so special mentions go to AaGlobal which has supported Chamber Expo since the business expanded to Hull and made the city its headquarters, Hull What’s On and Humber Wave Radio which all worked with us to promote this event.
The Chamber’s External Affairs and Membership Director David Hooper said: “We were delighted to team up with the military this year – it gave the event a new dimension and provided them with a platform to engage with their stakeholders.
“Col Simon Banks-Cooper did an excellent job as our lunchtime speaker, and I’m sure our local businesses who heard what he had to say will be more than happy to recruit cadets, people from the Reserves, and service leavers in future.
“We’re already looking forward to next year’s event, so if you’re interested in getting involved, then do please get in touch with me or Kay and we’ll be happy to help.
“We’ve had lots of great feedback from our exhibitors at this year’s event and we’re looking forward to making next year’s event even better!”
by Kevin Greene Photography
Pictures
Sector Focus
The latest news from the International Trade, Legal & Finance, Skills & Training, Manufacturing and Motoring industries.
Humber Freeport lands in listed Grimsby Dock Office
The Humber Freeport Company has located its headquarters in ABP’s Grade II Listed Grimsby Dock Office.
The Humber ports play a vital role for the UK as nation’s premier gateway with the world, handling around 17% of the nation’s trade, and the Freeport expands across the Humber including ABP’s four major ports of Grimsby, Goole, Hull, and Immingham. The office location is in the heart of an enduring part of the Humber’s trade network.
The Grimsby Dock Office is just one element of ABP’s extensive and diverse offering of property and development opportunities – from heritage assets to large scale development sites like the Humber International Enterprise Park (HIEP) in Hull, offering 468 acres of prime development land, including 212 acres of port estate and is situated within the taxassisted zone. The site also has access to a dedicated road/rail link and is ideally suited for port-
centric manufacturing, logistics and green energy uses.
Greg Lacey, Head of Property for ABP in the Humber, said:
“The Humber Freeport is a fantastic opportunity for the UK to attract new inward investment from both international and domestic businesses.
‘A fantastic opportunity for the UK to attract new inward investment’
“We have several complementary development sites across the North and South Bank, all of which have their own USPs and the ability to attract transformational projects to the region. What is also exciting, is the opportunity for the development sites to play a vital part in the Humber’s transformation to green energy and decarbonisation.
“We welcome Simon and the Humber Freeport Company team to Grimsby, which is the customs
zone of the Freeport, and located close to the offices of North East Lincolnshire Council, which is the accountable body for Humber Freeport.”
Simon Green, CEO of Humber Freeport, said: “This is another significant landmark for Humber Freeport, giving us a base in the heart of the region from which to drive further investment.
“Large-scale developments with a total value of more than £1bn have already been announced for freeport sites in the Humber, demonstrating how attractive our proposition is for inward investors.
“That investment in turn creates skilled jobs for local people, broadening our region’s supply chain while driving innovation and economic growth.”
Law firm keeps cargo vessel
Regional law firm Andrew Jackson Solicitors recently assisted Immingham-based Casper Chartering Limited, on its purchase of the cargo vessel ‘MV VESPER’, from Norwegian owners.
MV Vesper is the latest vessel to join Casper’s growing fleet, which now comprises seven ships. Built in 2006, Vesper is 88.60m LOA (length overall) and is berthed at Douglas in the Isle of Man, from where she trades within the North Sea and Mediterranean Sea alongside the rest of the fleet.
Pete Buffam, Managing Director of Casper Chartering Limited, said: “It has been an incredibly busy start to the second quarter of this year, with our fleet spread right across our trading range. Just last month, we ensured the safe delivery of ocean freight including urea, steel coils and
Greg Lacey, Head of Property (Humber) welcomes Simon Green, CEO Humber Freeport to Grimsby
Humber port director to step down
The Chief Executive of Associated British Ports, Henrik Pedersen, has announced that Simon Bird will step down as Regional Director, Humber.
Mr Bird, who has been in the role for nine years, will step down in October.
Mr Pedersen said: “Mr Bird began his career in the maritime and ports sector on the Board of the Mersey Docks and Harbour Company (now Peel ports), Simon’s impressive career spans over 28 years in the ports sector in the UK.
“He went on to be CEO at Bristol Port Company before joining ABP’s Executive Board as regional Director for the Humber Region in 2015. He served on the Board of all three Ports companies as well as serving as deputy chair and then chair of the UK Major Ports Group, and Port Advisor to the UK Government.
“During his tenure as Regional Director, he has been instrumental in driving forward significant change in the region; improving health and safety standards for the benefit of ABP employees and other port users, increasing profit, bringing forward large commercial contracts that enable decarbonisation and support the green energy transition, securing and chairing the Humber
Freeport and gaining agreement for the significant land purchase at Stallingborough enabling the expansion of the region amongst many other achievements.
“Simon has been an honorary Captain in the Royal Naval Reserve since 2014 and he has continued to support the Navy while carrying out his role as Regional Director, something in which he takes immense pride.
“The shareholders and Executive Board colleagues would like to express their sincere gratitude to Simon for the significant contribution he has made and wish him well in the future.”
deal afloat
grain to several ports such as Denmark, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Egypt and Turkey. We are very grateful for the guidance provided by the team at Andrew Jackson Solicitors who were able to move quickly on the purchase of MV Vesper.
“She is already providing much needed support and has recently returned from the German Port of Mukran, one of our regular trading routes, to transport grain back to Europe.”
Dominic Ward, Senior Partner and Head of Shipping and Transport, added: “It has been a pleasure to assist Casper Chartering on its latest vessel purchase. Having worked with the Casper Group for several years, we are particularly delighted to see them strengthen their position as one of the UK’s leading cargo vessel operators.”
Simon Bird
Sector Focus: Legal & Finance
Emma and Ruth lead promotions at Rollits
Leading law firm Rollits LLP has announced its latest round of promotions with two new partners and four more lawyers stepping up a level.
Ruth Maltby-Sinkler in the commercial property team and Emma Hamilton in private capital have both been promoted from Associate to Partner and John Ashworth in dispute resolution becomes an Associate.
Abbie Bielby in dispute resolution has been promoted from Solicitor to Senior Solicitor along with her colleagues Enisha Ali in property and Harry Spice in corporate.
Ruth, Emma, John, Enisha and
Harry are all alumni of The University of Hull, and Abbie is a graduate from Queen Mary University of London.
Ruth qualified in 2015 after training at a small firm in Hull and has worked at a commercial law firm in Leeds as well as an international law firm. She joined Rollits in 2021 and handles all aspects of agricultural law from farm business tenancies, grazing licences and diversification projects to farm sales and purchases.
Emma qualified in 2011 and worked in general practice before moving to Rollits in 2018. She specialises in wills, estate planning, lasting powers of attorney and
Chamber joins the fun at networking barbecue
The Chamber was pleased to attend the Forrester Boyd networking barbecue recently.
Even the constant rain couldn’t stop the event going ahead and the lovely Healing Manor Barn came into its own. So an indoor barbecue it was!
During the evening Phil George, Business Development Director, announced that Forrester Boyd had raised £20,000 for the British Heart Foundation in the last year before presenting winner of the ‘lucky number’ Ian Mayor, Client Director of Sixforward, with an M&S hamper.
Court of Protection matters.
John, a former student at Hymers College, joined Rollits as a Trainee in 2016 and moved to work in the firm’s dispute resolution department when he qualified in September 2018.
He specialises in various kinds of regulatory law and advises and defends individuals, businesses and other organisations where they are facing prosecution by a relevant authority.
Abbie joined Rollits as a Paralegal in the York Office and
progressed into the dispute resolution team after completing her period of recognised training. She joined through the firm’s summer vacation scheme and after completing her Legal Practice Course became a property paralegal in the York office. She now deals with various kinds of commercial dispute resolution work.
Enisha worked in the local property sector as an estate agent for six years before joining Rollits in 2019 as a trainee and qualifying
Staff on the rise as firm hits 150 years
Regional law firm Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP has announced several promotions in the year that the firm celebrates its 150th anniversary.
Solicitors Yasmin Fenton and Harry Mills (real estate & property), Pippa Heuck (private client) and Grace Moreton (corporate) have been promoted as Associates; Rikki Foster becomes a Senior Solicitor (litigation); and, Benn Shilleto and Sam Bailey have been promoted as Trainee Solicitor and Paralegal respectively.
Yasmin and Harry each have several years’ experience assisting clients in different sectors across a broad range of transactional commercial property work including sales, purchases and
lettings, refinancing, development projects, overage agreements and option agreements.
Pippa has many years’ experience assisting clients with the preparation of wills, lasting powers of attorney and applications to obtain grants of probate and Letters of Administration. She also deals with the administration of estates, assisting with complex estates.
With a strong corporate background, Grace is an experienced restructuring and insolvency lawyer who advises across a range of non-contentious matters, which require specialist knowledge of company procedures including share allotments and transfers.
Andrew Jackson’s Managing
into the commercial property team two years later. She has built on her previous experience and has acted on a variety of commercial property matters.
Harry is another product of the summer vacation scheme having spent time at Rollits in 2017 while still at university. He embarked on his period of recognised training in 2019 and after qualification in 2021 moved into the corporate team and now focuses on advising directors and owners on a variety of issues.
Ralph Gilbert, Managing Partner of Rollits, said: “We are delighted and proud to share in the success of local people who have made great progress in their careers with us, and all have strong links with our local area.
“Aspiring lawyers who attend the University of Hull and who take up the opportunities offered by our work experience schemes and training contracts will see that Rollits offers a clear route to a rewarding and fulfilling legal career.”
Partner, Mark Pearson-Kendall, said: “These latest promotions reflect the firm’s continued investment in our hardworking and dedicated team, and our commitment to the delivery of an excellent service to the businesses and individuals we work with.
“Very well done to our newly promoted Associates – Yasmin, Harry, Pippa and Grace – and to Rikki, Benn and Sam, all of whom have demonstrated their ability to
deliver exceptional client services, which is what we aim to achieve right across the firm.
“As we celebrate 150 years since Andrew Marvell Jackson established the firm in 1874, we remain committed to retaining and recruiting the best talent from the region and beyond, enabling us to deliver the highest standards to our clients, with a service which is both professional and personable.”
Pepperells forges official partnership with charity
Pepperells Solicitors has announced its official certification as a partner of the Alzheimer’s Society, which coincided with Dementia Action Week in May
This partnership reinforces Pepperells’ commitment to supporting those affected by Dementia and helping to end the devastation caused by this condition.
Dementia Action Week is an annual awareness campaign led by the Alzheimer’s Society, aiming to raise understanding and support for people living with dementia. During the week Pepperells joined the global effort to promote dementia awareness and encourage action to support individuals and families affected by the condition.
Charlotte Johnson (pictured), Head of the Private Client Department at Pepperells, said: “We are honoured to become an official partner of the Alzheimer’s Society. This partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting those affected by dementia and our dedication to making a positive difference in our community.”
Victoria Neale, a member of Pepperells’ team, shared her personal connection to dementia. “My grandad suffered greatly from dementia, and his experience has driven my passion for supporting individuals and families affected by this condition,” she said. “Joining forces with the Alzheimer's Society is a significant step towards raising awareness and providing crucial support to those in need.”
Pepperells recognises the importance of planning for the future, particularly in light of the challenges posed by dementia. Making a will is a crucial step in ensuring that one’s wishes are carried out and loved ones are provided for. Through its partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, Pepperells aims to raise awareness of the importance of making a will and encourage individuals to consider including a charitable gift to the charity in their estate plans.
“We believe everyone should have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy,” added Charlotte. “The Will to Remember initiative encourages individuals to consider including a gift to the Alzheimer’s Society in their wills, helping support vital research and services for those affected by dementia.”
Clare Williams, Pepperells Business Development Manager, emphasised the significance of the firm’s commitment to supporting local charities and the collaborative nature of partnerships in promoting awareness.
“At Pepperells, we recognise the importance of aligning with local charities to support causes that matter to our community,” she said. “Our partnerships, such as with the Alzheimer’s Society, are integral to our strategic vision for community engagement and corporate social responsibility. By working together, we amplify our impact and drive positive change for individuals and families affected by dementia.”
For more information about Pepperells’ partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society or to learn how you can support the cause, visit www.pepperells.com or call in to any Pepperells office.
Emma Hamilton and Ruth Maltby-Sinkler of Rollits
Pictured (left to right) are Grace Moreton, Sam Bailey, Harry Mills, Benn Shilleto, Yasmin Fenton, Rikki Foster and Pippa Heuck
Sector Focus: Skills & Training
Ongo teams up with soccer stars
Ongo has teamed up with Scunthorpe United to offer a new and exciting initiative to their tenants and customers, as part of their commitment to invest in local communities.
As leading organisations in the region, the two have formed a unique partnership bringing opportunities to people of all ages.
‘We want to increase the number of opportunities for people to access sport’
An Ongo zone has been established at the Attis Arena (Scunthorpe United’s stadium, also known as Glanford Park), with the partnership including signage and 50 tickets to every game for the upcoming season.
Promotion of Ongo services to fans will also be a focus, including mental health support and projects to help get people into work and training.
Initiatives within different areas is set to take place, from chair-based exercise sessions with residents at Myos House (Ongo’s
dementia care scheme) to joint activities and education sessions at Ongo’s community centres and large-scale events.
So far, over 100 people have benefitted from the project, attending a Scunthorpe United game and accessing support, and this is something that will only grow with the enhanced partnership for the 2024-25 season.
Kevin Hornsby, Director of
...and helps deliver kids green activities
has teamed up with local school and youth clubs to deliver environmental sessions for children of all ages from across the area.
The sessions, held in collaboration with St. Peter’s and St. Paul’s Primary School, Oasis Henderson Avenue Primary School and The Arc, aimed to educate and empower young participants on ways they can have a positive impact on the environment.
A team of 28 children and Ongo colleagues worked together to build and install bug hotels, bird boxes, and hedgehog houses to enhance biodiversity and learn in a fun and hands on way.
Bug hotels serve as safe shelters for insects and other minibeasts to grow and thrive and offer a creative way to repurpose spare materials, reducing waste.
The activities are part of Ongo’s Net Zero aims, engaging with and educating key stakeholders whilst creating vibrant and sustainable neighbourhoods.
Andrea Morley, Net Zero Lead at Ongo, said: “Our commitment to net zero isn’t just a policy or check box exercise, it’s about making real, long lasting change and having an impact.
“Going out into communities to educate and get people involved is a huge part of what we’re trying to achieve, as we need everyone to be bought in and take part to make it happen.
“I was impressed with how much our younger generation were aware and wanted to be involved and it was great to see that schools had created Green Champions. Their enthusiasm made a huge difference.
Customer Services at Ongo, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for us to strengthen an already great partnership with Scunthorpe United.
“We know how passionate people are about the club so it’s great we’re able to not only invest in them, but in our tenants and customers too, bringing huge benefits and creating new ways to engage in our services.
“We want to increase the number of opportunities for people to access sport and footballrelated activities, while being able to attend games at their local club.”
To find out more about Ongo and their community work, follow them on social media or visit www.ongo.co.uk
To find out more about Scunthorpe United, visit www.scunthorpe-united.co.uk
“I must say a huge thanks to the schools and The Arc for their participation, my colleagues and of course all of the fantastic young people.
Hannah Moore, a teacher at Oasis Academy Henderson Avenue, said: “We have a huge amount of grassland that we didn't know what to do with, so we asked students for their ideas.
“They came back with animal habitats, as there wasn't anywhere currently for them to thrive. So, with the huge help of this project and the amazing Ongo team, we were able to make their dreams a reality.
“It’s made a lovely addition to the academy and we’ve even been able to enter the Lincolnshire Show’s Bee-utiful Garden competition, which we’re all very excited about. I’d like to thank Ongo for their support, our students and everyone else involved.”
To find out more about Ongo and their Net Zero aims, visit: www.ongo.co.uk/about-ongo/environmental
Ongo
Glyn Sparks from Scunthorpe United and Kerry Copson from Ongo celebrate their new partnership at the club
Energy firms join forces on major Humber projects
Leading energy companies
Equinor, Centrica and SSE Thermal have launched plans for a collaboration of multiple low carbon hydrogen projects on the north bank of the Humber, which also link to wider plans within the region.
The plans, which include the transformation of the Easington gas terminal, were launched in the Houses of Parliament to an audience of MPs, civil servants, industry bodies and regional stakeholders. Lord Callanan, the Energy Minister responsible for Hydrogen and Carbon Capture policy, spoke at the event alongside Beverley & Holderness MP Graham Stuart and representatives from Equinor, Centrica Energy Storage and SSE Thermal.
H2H Easington includes proposals by Equinor and Centrica to deliver a multi-stage green and blue hydrogen production facility which will scale up over time as a hydrogen economy develops. Since a cooperation agreement was signed between the two companies in 2022, detailed engineering studies have assessed projects which could produce up to 1.2GW of blue hydrogen production and up to 1GW of green hydrogen at Easington with initial projects commissioned by the end of the
decade then expansion through the 2030s.
To unlock these ambitions, proposals for a green hydrogen electrolyser have been submitted to Government as part of the second Hydrogen Allocation Round process. If successful, this initial electrolytic hydrogen system would be operational by early 2029 and would fuel switch off-takers within the Easington terminal, displacing current natural gas demand and significantly reducing the site’s CO2 footprint by 100,000 tonnes per year. An immediate next step would include hydrogen for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which is key to facilitating the energy transition in the aviation sector.
Such a transition would also safeguard many existing jobs within the historic gas terminal while creating new jobs and supply chain opportunities for the future. It is estimated that the 35year economic impact of the green hydrogen proposals at Easington, including construction, operation and decommissioning of the facility, will be in the region of £1.5bn of gross value added, supporting thousands of jobs in the region.
In addition, the partnership will also explore a dedicated hydrogen pipeline that would link H2H
‘This is an exciting collection of projects which can help to deliver on the UK’s net zero goals’
Easington to Equinor’s proposed H2H Saltend hydrogen production facility at Saltend Chemicals Park, and to Equinor and SSE Thermal’s proposed hydrogen storage facility at Aldbrough on the East Yorkshire Coast. Collectively, these projects form the Humber Hydrogen Hub.
Equinor and SSE Thermal are currently consulting on the proposals for hydrogen storage at the existing gas storage site near Aldbrough. The use of the geologically unique underground salt caverns for storage helps to balance the fluctuating supply and demand of a future hydrogen economy while improving energy security.
The 45km hydrogen pipeline proposals also include a crossing of the River Humber to provide connectivity between north and south banks, whilst there is also potential for connection to the ‘Project Union’ gas network to expand across the wider Humber region.
Decision makers from Government departments including Energy Security & Net
Zero, Business & Trade and Transport, joined the Government’s ‘Hydrogen Champion’, UK Research & Innovation and the Carbon Capture & Storage Association to listen to the new proposals.
Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young MP, who is also a proactive advocate of hydrogen, was in attendance. The Humber region was represented by MPs Graham Stuart and Martin Vickers, as well as representatives from the East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Humber Chamber of Commerce and the Yorkshire & Humber CBI.
Graham Stuart MP, Member of Parliament for Beverley and Holderness, said: “This is an exciting collection of projects which can help to deliver on the UK’s net zero goals and hydrogen targets while also supporting the Government’s levelling up agenda.
“I’m particularly proud to have such key strategic energy sites within my constituency that are attracting investment from large companies, creating new jobs for local people and supply chain opportunities for local businesses. It shows that East Yorkshire is an internationally renowned location for low carbon technologies, and this can only help to boost prosperity across the region.”
From left: John Johnson, SSE Thermal; Martin Scargill, Centrica Energy Storage; Dan Sadler, Equinor; Lord Callanan, former Energy Minister and MPs Graham Stuart and Martin Vickers
Sector Focus: Motoring Motoring
Life can’t be all about work! Chamber Motoring reviews some of the latest offerings on the market.
Driving peace of mind
With an industry-leading warranty, DAVID HOOPER reviews the Kia Sportage, the brand’s best-selling model in Europe.
The Sportage is a familiar name in the Kia line-up, now finding itself in its fifth generation, and were you to compare this latest model with the original, you would find that they are light years apart in quality and technology.
This latest iteration has been designed and developed especially for the European market and is Kia’s bestselling model in the UK and Europe. Our test car is the mild hybrid petrol model, while customers also have the options of full hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions.
The range is made up of 13 different models and comes with four trim levels, 2, GT-Line, 3 and GT-Line S. There is even a choice of five alloy wheel designs and three sizes, depending on your preferred choice of specification, but perhaps one of Kia’s biggest selling points, is the peace of mind its customers get from its seven year or 100,000 mile warranty which comes as standard across the entire range. I think it’s a real testament to the manufacturer’s confidence in its products that is willing to provide what remains an industry-leading warranty.
The Kia Sportage is a smart looking car – it’s fairly boxy in its design, yet still manages to be attractively styled and carry a certain panache which is easy on the
The Vital Statistics
MODEL: Kia Sportage 'GT-Line' 1.6 T-GDi AWD
ENGINE: 1598cc, 148bhp four-cylinder petrol engine, driving front wheels through 7-speed DCT gearbox
PERFORMANCE: Top speed 117 mph. 0-62mph in 9.3 secs
ECONOMY:
City: 35.8mpg
Country: 51.4mpg
Combined: 44.1mpg
Wheel World test average: 33.8mpg
CO2 EMISSIONS: 146g/km
FUEL TANK: 54 litres
PRICE: £33,575
WARRANTY: 7 years/100,000 miles
WEBSITE: www.kia.co.uk
• All data correct at time of publication.
‘The ride and handling are more than up to the job, and provide good body control through the corners, while absorbing the worst indiscretions on our appallingly bad roads’
eye. It has a good sized boot, and rear seats which fold flat in a 40-20-40 configuration to provide lots of flexibility and almost van like carrying capacity.
The interior looks and feels to be of high quality, with the 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation being standard
TOP: The Kia Sportage has evolved into an attractive car
OPPOSITE: The large tailgate opens to reveal a very practical boot, which combined with folding seats, can do a good impression of a small van
LEFT: The interior is clean and modern and was a big hit with passengers
across all the trim levels and relaying much of the key information to the driver.
The gear selector is a rotary dial which is easy to operate and saves a lot of space on the centre console compared to a traditional gear selector, improving the amount of space available for cup holders and various other buttons.
On the road, the car drives very well, with the 1.6-litre engine proving a willing companion, cruising quietly and only sounding slightly harsh when worked hard. During my test it achieved an average of 33.8mpg over a distance of more than 400 miles.
There is very little wind noise inside the plush cabin and the slightly raised driving position affords a good view of the goings on outside.
The ride and handling are more than up to the job, and provide good body control through the corners, while absorbing the worst indiscretions on our appallingly bad roads which are beginning to look more like obstacle courses without the cones, as we are forced to dodge one pothole after another!
If they get much worse, the AWD system will become very handy for climbing out of the craters, and can be selected by twisting a dial to choose from Mud, Snow and Sand and comes as standard on the GT-Line S in the Hybrid AWD and PHEV versions.
The large glass area makes manoeuvring easy, and with reversing cameras and parking sensors, there can be no excuses for the damaging the paintwork – and I particularly liked the blue metallic finish on our test car which gave and Sportage a classy look.
For those of you who like to go on the pull, the Sportage in this guise can tow a braked trailer up to 1,650kg, which is about the same weight as the car, although many caravanning types would prefer the car to be a bit heavier than the trailer in most cases.
There is plenty of tech included to help you keep out of trouble too, with things like Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, which helps you dodge pedestrians, cyclists and junction dangers in built-up areas, and among the many “assists” the car offers, one of the latest is Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, which helps you to keep your licence in tact as speed limits fluctuate every 100 yards as they seem to do these days!
The Sportage is easy to live with and good to drive, so if you want a reliable car which won’t break the bank, it’s definitely worth a look, especially with the peace of mind that warranty provides.
AA debuts electric vehicle recovery fleet
Fully electric recovery trucks will be hitting the UK’s roads thanks to a pioneering launch from The AA. The move will see The AA become the first UK-based roadside assistance firm to add full electric recovery vehicles to its fleet. Due to the complex vehicle requirements, The AA is taking a “test and scale” approach to fleet decarbonisation with structured tests of alternative fuel vehicles in real-life settings.
The UK’s largest motoring organisation hosted a Fleet Decarbonisation event at its Oldbury Operations Centre, unveiling the most recent additions to its 3000-vehiclestrong roadside assistance and recovery fleet.
Edmund King OBE, AA President, and Duncan Webb, AA’s Head of Fleet, welcomed guests from across the motoring world to present an overview of The AA’s Motoring Manifesto, The AA’s latest Environment Social and Governance (ESG) report and its plans to extend its range of low emissions concept vehicles.
Among an impressive selection of low-emission vehicles from across The AA business sat the day’s main attractions: a fully electric Volvo FE Slidebed; an Iveco eDaily Powerload; an Iveco eDaily crew van equipped with a heavy-duty Compact Recovery Trailer (CRT).
Edmund said: “Introducing these exciting new concept vehicles to our fleet is an important step towards our goal of becoming a net zero company by 2035.”
Volvo FE Boniface Slidebed
This electric version of the Volvo FE 19T is equipped with a Boniface VLA (very low angle) slidebed. It is the latest addition to a growing partnership between The AA and the Swedish vehicle maker. The vehicle can carry 6000kg on its recovery bed and up to 2000kg on its 2nd car lift. The vehicle has an impressive range of 170 miles and a recharge rate of 2.25 hours when using a 150kWh rapid charger. The spacious cab can carry two passengers in comfort and is likely to be used to recover vehicles in and around low-emissions zones such as London and Birmingham.
Simon Ungless, AA Commercial Group Fleet Manager, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to expand our partnership with Volvo. Adding the zero-emission Volvo FE 19T Bonifaceequipped recovery truck to our fleet, with its impressive payload capabilities and quick charging times is sure to make a positive impact, especially in low-emission zones.”
Iveco eDaily 7.2T Dyson Powerload
The Iveco eDaily Powerload features Roger Dyson’s innovative remote loading system which alleviates most of the manual handling for recovery operatives by deploying the loading ramps remotely. This electric concept vehicle has a minimum range of 100 miles which is adequate to cover its intended low-emission zone application.
Dug Dudley, AA Fleet Engineer, said: “The Iveco eDaily Powerload concept really is an amazing vehicle. The remote loading system from Roger Dyson is such a game-changer for recovery operatives, making their job so much easier. And with a 100-mile range and a 3000kg payload, it ticks all the boxes for us.”
Iveco eDaily CRT Van
Based on an Iveco eDaily crew van which has undergone a specialist conversion to allow proper installation of our CRT unit, the eDaily CRT van features a twin battery set-up which delivers an increased range of approximately 160 miles with an identical 0.8 hours recharge time to the eDaily Powerload, when using an 80 kWh charger. With a large passenger area to the rear of the driver, AA members can sit in the comfort of the leather AA-branded seats around a custom-made table complete with cup holders and built-in USB charge points.
George Flinton, AA Fleet Support Engineer, said: “The Iveco eDaily CRT van looks like a real game-changer for us. We’re impressed with the increased range of 160 miles and quick recharge time when using an 80 kWh charger and the fact that it has a spacious passenger area with enough room for six passengers. Its strength though, lies in its ability to carry a variety of vehicles, making it a versatile option. The comfort levels all around make this van a great choice for The AA in terms of our net zero and the need for reliable and comfortable transportation for our members.”
Exciting new vehicles are an important step towards Net Zero
An upmarket SUV that’s on a charge
Late to the EV party, but now a premium contender, DAVID HOOPER is impressed with the Subaru’s Solterra.
MAIN PHOTO: The Solterra is a robust looking car which comes with fourwheel-drive
OPPOSITE TOP: The cockpit is an unusual design which puts the instruments in the driver's eyeline
OPPOSITE BOTTOM: The rear lighting blends nicely in the rear wings
INSET LEFT: The charging connector plugs into the front wing
INSET CENTRE: The glass panels in the roof allow light to flood into the Solterra's cabin
INSET RIGHT: The rear of the car features some striking design elements
The Vital Statistics
MODEL: Subaru Solterra
BATTERY: 71.4kWh, 218bhp, dual motor permanent
AWD
PERFORMANCE: Top speed 100 mph. 0-62mph in 6.9 secs
While Subaru may have been a little late to the electric vehicle party, they are now on a charge with their Solterra – a high spec, quality SUV which looks and feels impressively premium inside and out.
The Solterra name comes from the Latin words for Sun and Earth which, the company says, represents its commitment to delivering traditional SUV capabilities in an environmentally responsible package.
The Solterra is the latest offering from its partnership with Toyota, which has seen the two companies previously combine their talents to produce the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86, both of which are among my favourite sporty coupes.
This latest collaboration sees Toyota’s inspirationally named BZ4X share its underpinnings with the Solterra, although with Subaru being a performance brand, all the Solterra models come with an all-wheel-drive system as standard which is permanently engaged on all four wheels.
With a range of up to 288 miles, the Solterra features the S-Pedal Drive and regenerative braking which can be adjusted via paddle switches on the steering wheel. This allows the driver to personalise the regenerative braking system depending on how much “engine braking” you prefer.
The AWD system includes a Dual-Function X-Mode which allows the driver to select Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes to get you out of sticky situations, as well as Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control for when the going becomes a little less predictable than normal.
The Solterra’s suspension and steering have been modified which gives it a heavier steering feel and a firmer but supple suspension setup and it also has an additional “Power” mode for improved throttle
CO2 EMISSIONS: 0g/km
PRICE: £52,495
WARRANTY: 3 years/60,000 miles
WEBSITE: www.subaru.co.uk
• All data correct at time of publication.
response, which I have to say, I quite enjoyed, even if it didn’t do much for the battery’s range.
Customers have two models to choose from, both of which are well equipped, Limited and Touring, while the former comes with 18in wheels, the Touring model gets 20in rims and adds other luxuries like a panoramic roof with electric sunblind, leather trim, electric seats, wireless phone charging and an eight speaker audio system with a subwoofer, which sounds excellent! Both versions come with city proof wheel arch protection, too.
The interior feels very upmarket and was impressively well put together. I liked the smart 12.3in multi-media screen which sits in the centre of the dashboard, with the air conditioning controls below that, but still in the driver’s eye line, so adjustments can be made without taking your eyes off the road.
The steering wheel is positioned lower down, with another instrument binnacle perched above it, again to keep the key information in front of the driver, not quite a traditional head-up display, but not far off. While it may look a little unusual at first, once you get used to it, it works very well.
I liked the Solterra to drive too, on the road it feels very well planted, perhaps helped by its four-wheel drive system, and unlike some other EVs I’ve tested recently, its body control was excellent and predictable, even when I took liberties with it through some of my favourite bends.
Subaru’s work on the suspension set up is obvious and has paid dividends, in fact, I would go so far as to say this is one of the best handling EVs I’ve driven, with a comfortable and compliant ride setup.
The boot is a decent size too and can be enlarged by folding down the rear seats which feature a traditional 60/40 split.
There are plenty of charging points for phones and gadgets with the latest USB-C connections for faster charging and ample storage around the cabin.
If you’re considering an EV as your next car, I would suggest you would be doing yourself a disservice by not having a proper look at a Subaru Solterra – it is definitely up there among my favourite EVs, so well worthy of consideration in my book.
New Members
A warm welcome and introduction to the latest businesses to join Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce.
Abbey Textiles Ltd T/A The Laundry & Dry
Cleaning Company
Jessica Locking Rice
Grimsby 01472 250758
Domestic & Commercial Laundry
Bates & Bradshaw
Martin Bradshaw Melton 07377 538201
Recruitment
Black Box Global Ltd
Pasha Munro
Scunthorpe 07977 506932
Security
Cars 4 Less Yorkshire Ltd
Dwight Daley
Hull 01482 343550
Used Vehicle Sale
CARS of Grimsby Ltd
Ebony Barker
Grimsby 01472 453622
Vehicle repair
Cash for Kids East Yorkshire, Yorkshire Coast and Lincolnshire
Vicki Connolly
Lincoln 07952 384380
Charity
CATZERO
Pete Tighe
Hull 01482 333303
Charity
David Hickinson Architecture
David Hickinson
Beverley 01482 699250
Architectural Designers
Dawsongroup Plc
Scott Bailey
Hull 07799 646514
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Paul Eaton
Hull
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Andy Lambeth
Newcastle 07516 978666
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Phil Hammond
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Business Transformation
Youth Enterprise
Remembering Vic Golding, a ‘force of nature’ who helped support young people as well as bringing computers, and computer training, to Hull.
Award named in honour of Vic
An entrepreneur who is credited with introducing Hull to global brands from Amstrad to Take That will be remembered for his lifelong commitment to training with a new award bearing his name.
Vic Golding, who died in November 2023 at the age of 86, supplied many businesses in Hull and East Yorkshire with their first computers. As founder and managing director of Golding Computer Services, which he launched in 1982, he recognised that the hardware was worthless without training in how to use it.
The company went on to win countless awards for excellence from Sage software, from the International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB), and from Hull City Council’s Making Changes for Careers (MC4C) project.
Many of the accolades were for the training, delivered by Vic’s colleague Di Garbera, to equip young entrepreneurs and others in business with the vital skills they needed in computerised accounts.
Now MC4C has announced that one of its annual awards will be named after Vic in recognition of his support for young people and for his remarkable business career.
Charles Cracknell, Hull City Council’s Youth Enterprise and Microbusiness Manager, said: “Vic was a force of nature committed to supporting young people either as apprentices or entrepreneurs. He would often ask for updates on how they were doing as he felt encouraging them was the key to ensuring their success. He was as proud as punch whenever one of the young entrepreneurs supported by MC4C passed their Level 2 book keeping course, and even more so when one former homeless young man won a national award organised by the IAB, which Goldings worked with very closely. It was the first recognition the young man had ever received.
“It was obvious to me that we should recognise Vic’s commitment to Hull and to young people, hence we have decided to honour his service and memory by naming a youth enterprise award after him. We will present it at our annual awards evening during Global Entrepreneurship Week.”
‘He was always much more than an accountant or a computer wizz. He had a great business brain and was full of ideas and an energy’
Vic’s first venture into the world of work was selling irons, hairdryers and other electrical goods at Hammonds department store. He then joined Priestman Brothers as a trainee management accountant costing the manufacture of cranes, excavators and the other construction equipment from a worldrenowned factory. When he left, it was for other household-name businesses – Smith & Nephew with Elastoplast, Webley & Scott with revolvers and shotguns, Klaxon with Klaxons. He experienced the downsides of business after a move to Associated Fisheries, which relocated to Scotland, and then local construction giant Spooner Group, which went out of business.
At the Hull and East Riding Co-operative Society Vic was responsible for training staff
in readiness for the introduction of VAT and Sunday trading. They worked with punched paper tape, signs of a move towards computerisation for the retail empire.
Interviewed in 2019, Vic recalled: “I decided to set myself up as a computer consultant, providing local businesses with the same expertise as the blue-chip companies I had worked for and I soon found my clients wanted me to supply the software and hardware I recommended.
“The accreditations we received then from the main computer manufacturers including Apple, ACT Sirius, Sanyo, IBM, Olivetti and Amstrad meant we were very much in the right place at the right time for the birth of the personal computer. It was always about training. We were selling the Amstrad packages like hot cakes but at that time most of the businesses in Hull didn’t have any computers at all. Many bought their first machines from us, but they couldn’t use them.”
Goldings partnered with Hull City Council and the Department of Employment, pioneering the use of computers in business, writing manuals and training the staff at hundreds of businesses in the new technology.
Vic also had a flair for marketing. When Take That performed in Hull at Malet Lambert School, Kingston High School and LA’s nightclub back in 1992 they shared the stages with advertising boards from the main sponsor – Golding Computer Services.
In 2018 MC4C recognised the contribution made by Goldings to helping people understand the world of business finance with a special award for Vic and Di. Phil Ascough, at the time the Immediate Past President of the Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce, was invited to present the award.
He said: “I first met Vic in the 1990s, worked closely with him over the last 15 years and helped him share so many success stories – most of them about young people who were applying the skills taught by Goldings as they pursued their business careers.
“He was always much more than an accountant or a computer wizz. He had a great business brain and was full of ideas and an energy which belied his 80-plus years. Even during the last few months of his life he was pitching new projects. This award will be a constant reminder that Vic was an inspiration to us all.”
Vic with some old and new tech including an Amstrad PC, and monitor and printer from the 1980s
