Business Voice Q2 2023

BECOMING GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

PEOPLE, PLANET AND PROFIT

The three ‘Ps’ to follow on your path to sustainability

Our newly launched ‘Seven Step Green Plan’ will help your business

CONTENTS Voice

Q2 2023

WELCOME

5 Ross McNally, Chamber Executive Chair, introduces this issue’s theme of ‘Becoming Greener and More Sustainable’

MEMBER NEWS

6 Successful leadership is about intent, not instructions

CHAMBER NEWS

22 Chamber helps members meet green targets

CHAMBER GLOBAL

28 New airport boss outlines top priorities

CHAMBER POLICY

30 Owner managed businesses struggle with rising inflation

GREEN BUSINESS

34 Why firms are choosing to back to green agenda

EVENTS & TRAINING

46 A comprehensive list of the latest Chamber events

47 Helping members grow their businesses through training

SECTOR FOCUS

49 Corporate Hospitality Food workshops for GCSE pupils

50 Engineering & Manufacturing South Western Railway plans for a sustainable future

52 International Trade

How to boost export ROI through translation

55 Legal & Finance

How to communicate climate change action

58 Skills & Training

The benefits of positive energy leadership

60 Technology

Putting sustainable technology at the heart of business

NEW MEMBERS

62 The Chamber welcomes new members

MEMBERS ARE INVITED TO SEND

THEIR EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS TO:

PRODUCTION EDITOR

David Allison

E: david.allison@hampshirechamber.co.uk

T: 01329 242420

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Sophie Taylor

E: sophie.taylor@hampshirechamber.co.uk

T: 01329 242420

HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Fareham College, Bishopsfield Road, Fareham PO14 1NH

T: 01329 242420

HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER CONTACTS

Chamber membership: Coral Benham

E: coral.benham@hampshirechamber.co.uk

Chamber events and training: Joe McDowell

E: events.south@hampshirechamber.co.uk

Welcome

BY ROSS MCNALLY EXECUTIVE CHAIR,

OF

Our Green Innovation Steering Group of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce was established to build a partnership with businesses and stakeholders sharing an interest in identifying and capturing economic growth opportunities aligned with the shift to net zero carbon emissions, with the emphasis on green recovery, clean growth and natural capital.

BECOMING GREENER

another, to exchange information, for all to assist in raising awareness to the business community to look at and review their business/organisation in ways in which they can become more sustainable - whether they may be small changes or several changes that they can implement which in return for their business/organisation is beneficial/rewarding and may save them money.

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MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Blake

DESIGNER: Lloyd Hollingworth

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

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ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE

Business Voice is a quarterly magazine distributed to around 5,000 members, affiliates and key businesses in the Hampshire region.

DISCLAIMER

Business Voice is produced on behalf of the Chamber by Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed to members and leading businesses without charge. The Chamber and the publisher are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. While every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, neither the Chamber nor the publisher can accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise. Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Chamber or the publisher. This publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without prior written permission of Kemps Publishing Ltd.

It will look at the importance of clean development by local industry, what net zero means to the business ecosystem, the meaning of green innovation to our local economy, our natural capital and how to harness it for business recovery, and to look at the skills needs for the future.

AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

For our Green Innovation Steering Group Members to work in collaboration with one

Our Green Innovation Steering Group consist of a variety of businesses/organisations within Hampshire/and outside of the Hampshire area who are Hampshire Chamber of Commerce Members, and also non-members. The group is open to any business/organisation to be part of, so if you would like more information about the group then please do contact us.

HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER

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THE MAGAZINE OF HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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MEMBER NEWS

Successful leadership is about intent not instructions

obstacles to success and engender management and team commitment at all levels during organisational change. This is facilitated through targeted learning and development. He is also a long-standing programme facilitator with the Institute of Directors on their Director development programme.

Leadership for the 21st century is about intent not instructions. Be clear about your intent and allow the skilled, experienced team members you hired for their abilities to decide how to deliver it.

Why? Because an organisation of empowered thinkers is more effective, efficient and successful. People with detailed knowledge of day-to-day activities are better placed than their leaders to decide the best actions to deliver the outcomes desired.

Strong team/leader relationships lead to valued, trusted, loyal, better engaged and empowered staff in a service/performanceorientated organisation focused on achieving the best outcomes.

High performing groups exhibit competitive advantage through the combination of clarity of purpose and trust.

Eisenhower said leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he or she wants it done.

In his book Turn The Ship Around!, US Navy Submarine Captain L. David Marquet said: “If you want your people to think, you don’t give instructions, you give intent.” As a man in command of a nuclear submarine with serious consequences to any actions taken, his leadership style is a powerful case study for intent (coupled with agency to act) over instruction.

wish to achieve with the team free to propose the best route to achieving it. Healthy review, debate and disagreement ensures that both the leader and the team truly understand the intent, how that intent will be achieved and how that will deliver the best outcome.

Removing assumption removes making an “ass” out of “u” and “me”.

Achieving the change

A change of style in terms of leadership and communication is essential.

Language needs to change so that the team owns the decision; ask why is that the right decision and encourage thinking to find the detail of how to bring about the results you desire. More significantly, when leaders ask the team why their decision is right this encourages them to articulate their knowledge, building confidence in their abilities and ultimately lead to a more empowered, successful team.

David Marquet believes that giving control requires two supporting pillars to be in place; technical competence (are we doing it the right way) and organisational clarity (is this the right thing to do?).

Leadership is about people interactions. Tapping into all leaders, official and unofficial, at any level in your organisation delivers greatest success.

Giving intent does not mean a free for all but a dialogue between leaders and the team. Leaders must be clear about the outcome they

Individual ownership, collective success

Ownership and thinking for themselves cascades through an organisation almost immediately; everyone knows what the organisation is doing, what they wish to achieve and how they are going to achieve

THE LATEST NEWS AND SUCCESS STORIES FROM CHAMBER MEMBERS

‘Leaders must be clear about the outcome they wish to achieve’

Dave Joel (pictured), Director, Lanson Consultants, former President Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, supports organisational leaders to gain competitive advantage, overcome

this. Agile thinking replaces cumbersome communication controls.

Individuals behave more efficiently, knowing what the organisation is doing, and arranging their own objectives in a timely and coordinated fashion.

Efficiency increases as a handful of leaders giving orders are replaced by a whole organisation of thinkers actively doing their job most efficiently, applying the greatest knowledge, and as a bonus, working happily and giving more to the organisation because they feel valued.

Creating the right environment

Creating the right environment can be uncomfortable as you move from having control to giving control. Authority must sit where the information sits to allow decisions to be taken autonomously.

Results

Leading with intent translates into how we drive purpose into action so people feel valued and proud of being part of something bigger than themselves. People need to know the organisation’s goals, thoughtfully contribute toward their accomplishment and push control and decision-making down the organisation - to ultimately take responsibility and have the authority to rise to the occasion, even during times of change or tension.

Organisational success is on the shoulders of all people and not simply the “leaders”.

Partnership supports major Solent decarbonisation efforts

ExxonMobil, operator of the Fawley petrochemical complex alongside Southampton Water, is backing the first major decarbonisation initiative designed to reduce emissions from the Solent region and beyond.

The energy gas and chemicals multinational is a founding partner of The Solent Cluster, a cross-sector collaboration working to develop expertise in the production and distribution of hydrogen fuel for industries such as aviation and maritime as well as power generation for business and domestic use. Complementary aims are the potential capture and safe storage of up to 10 million tonnes of CO2 a year from industry and other emission sources.

Among them are Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, SSE, RWE, Southampton Football Club, Associated British Ports, British Airways, cruise line Carnival and Airbus Defence and Space.

Public sector involvement includes local authorities such as Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council, the Royal Navy and various borough and district councils.

Mr Crocker said: “At ExxonMobil we’re not just looking at decarbonising our own operations, but also providing that as a solution to third parties.”

He added that ExxonMobil and the other cluster partners would work to flesh out plans over the coming months. and that ExxonMobil ‘’will look at whichever business models make most sense and are not ruling anything out at this stage.”

Matt Crocker, Senior Vice President for strategy and business development at ExxonMobil’s low carbon solutions arm, said: “This is the cluster for the southern coast of the United Kingdom, which obviously is a very important population centre and important for industry and other connectivity – so the Solent has a big influence, not just in the local industries but further in the country.”

Alongside fellow founding partners Solent Local Enterprise Partnership and the University of Southampton, there are more than 55 member organisations already on board.

Mr Crocker’s views were echoed by Dan Ammann, president of ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions, who said: “This is an important opportunity to decarbonise the Solent region, and we are proud to be a part of this collaborative effort to significantly reduce CO2 emissions from multiple sectors.”

Speaking at the launch of the cluster, Anne-Marie Mountifield, Chief Executive of Solent LEP, said: “Decarbonisation is at the heart of our economic strategy for the area and the creation of the Solent Cluster will sit alongside our ambition to pioneer approaches to climate change adaptation and decarbonisation, linked to our coastal setting, and establishing real expertise which other regions - nationally and globally - can learn from. The Solent Cluster will provide a platform for the excellent work that is already taking place and the partnership has a unique opportunity to affect real change.”

Helping you to be better connected, promoted, represented and supported.

‘Decarbonisation is at the heart of our economic strategy’

BECOMING GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

Comax UK celebrates 30 years in business

Founded in Dorset in 1992 Comax UK, expert supplier of commercial catering, hospitality, janitorial and care products, celebrated 30 years of success delivering to Hampshire, Dorset and surrounding counties.

Over the last 30 years, Comax has grown to become one of the largest wholesalers in the South central region, trusted by customers across a broad range of industries, including hospitality, commercial cleaning, care and education.

Comax was born from years of combined experiences, journeys, relationships and shared knowledge; they continue to put staff, customers and suppliers at the heart of the business today. By maintaining strong supplier relationships and investing in staff members, Comax ensures they’re able to provide market leading quality products, innovation and support to all their customers.

Festival of Innovation showcases top talent

Game-changing innovations, ranging from an AI-powered interactive fashion shopping experience to sustainable bespoke wooden bicycles, were just some of the inspirational products and services on show at this year’s #VFS22 Festival of Innovation. Around 1,000 visitors attended the region’s biggest innovation showcase at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton, on 17 November - the sixth event organised by Venturefest South.

This year, 47 innovators received funded places; over 50 innovators entered the £10k Battle of the Pitches competition and 12 entered the Open Mic events. The programme also engages with networks and initiatives, including Innovate UK KTN, Women in Innovation, Young Innovators, The Indian Business Group, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, Business South, Creative Network South, and more.

entrepreneurial and creative innovation we’ve seen at this year’s VFS22 is vital to the resilience and success of the UK.

“The collaboration between large-scale business, education and start-ups shows a willingness to pull together to make great things happen. Once again, I’ve been inspired by the delegates, partners and innovators at this year’s event who are bold and ambitious in supporting our region’s flourishing eco-system.”

The first home of Comax (then known as Coffeeman Disposables) was a small industrial unit in Boscombe, delivering to the local area in their own van, the operation soon grew and extra warehouse space was acquired in Bournemouth. Surrounding themselves with an ever growing team of enthusiastic people the business grew year on year providing next day delivery to Hampshire and Dorset.

After further expansion the business moved to Nuffield Industrial Estate in Poole, eventually moving again to their current home in Ringwood in April 2017. Comax now boasts over 70 full time members of staff, 24 delivery vans and a product portfolio of over 30,000 lines.

Graham Moakes, Managing Director, said: “Comax is 30 and stronger than ever! This is a huge achievement and we wouldn’t be where we are today without our brilliant suppliers, customers and team members. At milestones like these, it’s amazing to look back at where we have come from, but so important to keep looking ahead. Our vision for the future is to continue building on our great customer offer but also to keep sustainability at the forefront of our goals.”

In the spotlight were new business innovators who took to the stage for the legendary Battle of the Pitches competition, which carried a top prize of £10,000 from headline sponsor CATAX. Five of the South’s top innovators presented their creative proposals live to a judging panel, with Gil Satchell from powerQuad scooping the prestigious title and funding to help his eco-friendly batterypowered generator business to grow. The other finalists in the Battle of the Pitches were Everessence, KCC packaging; Labl.It and Portsmouth Distillery Co.

Ed Gould, #VFS22 Creative Director at Carswell Gould and a founding partner of VFS, said: “Now, more than ever, the type of

#VFS22 Board member Sarah Duckering, Director of Research and Innovation Services at University of Portsmouth, said: “It is fantastic to see so much innovation happening in the region.

“VFS22 is really instrumental in supporting the burgeoning local innovation and supports the region’s future prosperity, which is so important during this current economic climate.”

Independent business support was available from the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) Growth Hub Team, connecting local entrepreneurs, start-up and scale-up businesses with the most relevant and useful support, advice and signposting.

‘It is fantastic to see so much innovation happening in the region’

The Comax team raise a toast

‘At milestones like these, it’s amazing to look back at where we have come from’

Tony Mrozicki, Head of Innovation Labs at BAE Systems

Innovator of the Year winners: Labl.it. Sean Larsen, Kyle Wilks and Rhys Wilks

Don’t shut out disabled people

Tinclusive workforce; increasing opportunity and addressing the disability employment gap. However, what maybe less known, is the incredible benefits for the business, and ultimately the bottom line.

First-up, disabled people can be some of the best creative thinkers. They may have been problem solving all of their lives – just to get around barriers (literal and physical) in their path. This experience of quickly finding workable solutions is an invaluable resource

talent.

Having a diverse workforce, including disabled people, provides a proven boost to morale. A culture of inclusion causes a reduction in staff absence and positively impacts staff retention. Customers, likewise, view businesses that hire people with disabilities more favourably, with 92% confirming this in a recent survey. After all, your customers come from all walks of life, so your employees should too!

them to be as independent as possible, including access to work. We can, in turn, support your business, wherever you may be on the journey to a fully inclusive workforce. Some of the adjustments needed are surprisingly small, yet bring about sizeable and measurable benefits.

To find out how we can boost your business, please get in touch on: leonie.jackson@treloar.org.uk

Or call: 01420 547461

University reduces environmental impact

At the University of Southampton, the Residences and the Sustainability teams work together to run several initiatives throughout the year encouraging donations to charities and reducing avoidable waste.

During the early summer, when students move out of halls of residences, most students take items home to be reused in subsequent years at the university.

However, for some students, this is not always possible and many good quality items can go to waste.

An initiative was trialled in June 2022 at Wessex Lane Halls of Residences, which encouraged students moving out of halls to donate any unwanted kitchen items. The university received several bags of good quality donations from students, which were repackaged and given to new international

students arriving in the autumn. By encouraging donations each year, the university aims to reduce the need for unnecessary purchase and disposal.

delighted to receive around 80kg of food donations for those in need in the local community. In April 2022, there were an additional 47 crates of food donated to Southampton City Mission, from leftover food packs purchased for students who had to selfisolate during the pandemic.

BECOMING GREENER

AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

Food and cleaning product collection points were also set up to donate to the Three Rivers Community Rail Partnership, who were

At all of the halls of residence sites there are British Heart Foundation clothing donation points and students are encouraged to use these to donate any unwanted clothing. Throughout 2022, students donated 2776 bags of clothes, raising £38,864 for the charity.

These initiatives are just a few examples of the great work conducted at the university to reduce its environmental impact.

Wessex Lane Halls of Residences

Knightsure guarantees growth with acquisition

Established Southampton-based firm Knightsure Insurance Brokers has been acquired by the growing JMG Group in a deal that sees the Group purchase 100% of the £1.8m GWP corporate insurance broker business.

Knightsure MD Tony Knight, who has over 50 years’ experience in the insurance industry, will continue to lead the business which he established in 1990. Tony first met JMG Group CEO Nick Houghton in 2008 when Tony was chair of the South West Region of the Broker Network Membership and Nick was MD of Broker Network.

Security firm cracks the Net Zero code

Code 9 Security has one simple mission: ‘Protecting What Matters’. While this does mean their clients’ people, property and reputation, it also means the environments and communities in which they operate.

Tony Knight said: “I have built many solid relationships with clients within the Southampton business community and beyond and it is very much ‘business as usual’. This move allows me to get on with the part of the job I love the most, which is dealing with clients, renewals, sorting claims and finding the best insurance for my clients’ needs.

“I enjoy what I do and feel a strong sense of duty to my clients – but this gives me a ready-made succession plan and a team which takes away some of the noise that can inevitably distract from doing the day job. We had considered a number of potential suitors and felt JMG was best aligned with our own ethos. I’m really excited for the future.”

Nick Houghton, JMG Group MD, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Tony and his business to the Group and to extend our foothold in the South of England. Tony is a supremely competent insurance broker. He now has the added benefit of support to allow him to win and retain customers whilst maintaining the personality of the business and we gain the benefits of his experience.”

The acquisition further strengthens JMG Group’s foothold in the South of England following its recent acquisition of Wokingham-based BJP Insurance Brokers and also establishing the new JM Glendinning Community Risk Solutions out of offices in Fareham.

Daniel Gormley, CEO of Code 9, said: “In 2020, we joined many other organisations to declare a climate emergency. In doing so, we were not simply trying to follow a trend but critically evaluated our operation. The first step was to measure our carbon emissions and broader environmental impact. Then to identify reasonable ways to reduce emissions, reduce waste, improve recycling, and achieve more sustainable practices.

“As you would expect, most of our emissions came from our patrol and response assets. So we set out on a transformation plan, substituting the larger performance vehicles for smaller, lightweight and frugal vehicles while being conscious of ergonomics for our security officers. Today, we are exploring using electric and hybrid vehicles and installing

rapid charging infrastructure at our logistics and operational hubs in Basingstoke, Salisbury and Southampton.

“We started by finding ways to reduce the waste we produced by digitising processes, removing plastic wherever possible and promoting the same through our supply chain.

“Finding ways of reusing and repurposing waste was next on the list. We delivered this by working with strategic partners who assisted us in identifying quite a few ways of reducing waste to landfills and incineration. At the same time, we carefully reviewed our supply chain and only continued working with organisations that shared our environmental values and adopted recognised sustainable practices.

“Having reduced our carbon emissions and adopted more sustainable practices, we needed to ensure a transparent way of reporting on our progress, and this is why we partnered with Ecologi. Ecologi help us deliver our carbon offset programme and tree planting work in the UK and globally in places of need. Using the Ecologi dashboard helps us keep our stakeholders informed on our progress while promoting engagement with other businesses who share our vision.

“We can now celebrate with great pride that Code 9 Security has achieved Net Zero and has gone further to ensure the business is climate positive.”

‘We carefully reviewed our supply chain and only continued working with organisations that shared our environmental values’

Knightsure MD, Tony Knight (left) and Nick Houghton JMG Group MD (right)

‘We had considered a number of potential suitors and felt JMG was best aligned with our own ethos’

Security Patrol Officer, Tom, familiarising himself with the new electric patrol and response fleet

Daniel Gormley, CEO of Code 9

Southampton HR firm expands into Portsmouth

Significant growth during and since Covid has prompted an ambitious HR practitioner to expand her territory of operation across the Solent area. New Forest-born Deborah Weatherell has launched The HR Dept Solent, having taken on Portsmouth as a new area of operation in addition to Southampton and Fareham.

The new venture starts on the sixth anniversary for the business. It was set up on 1 February 2017 to cover central Southampton, growing into the east of the city and Fareham eight months later.

Providing in bespoke, outsourced HR and recruitment for local SMEs, The HR Dept Solent has grown on average by 30% each year since incorporation. It is forecasting a further 60% growth this year alone. Particular target sectors are the company’s current areas of specialism – legal, care homes and defence engineering. But Deborah said the time was ripe for all smaller businesses to appreciate the

benefits that sound human resources advice and support can bring.

“As the legal landscape changes, as employees’ demands develop and our culture continues to shift, HR is becoming more widely regarded as a necessity – an investment worth making to give businesses a competitive edge,” she said.

continuing to serve Southampton and

Fareham.”

The HR Dept Solent currently serves more than 20 businesses on a retained basis, with a similar number looked after on an ad hoc arrangement. To facilitate the company’s growth Mrs Weatherell has taken on local expert Annabel Robbins as her new human resources business partner, as well as Emmy Janaway as administrative support. The team is based out of offices in Whiteley and Totton for two days a week, with the rest of the time spent working remotely at their homes around the new Solent-wide territory.

“An increasingly transactional nature of employment is forcing businesses to change how they find and – crucially – keep their best people. Even small organisations can take steps to become great employers. It will result in higher retention, lower recruitment costs and less loss of expertise from the business. So I’m excited to bring our offering to smaller businesses around Portsmouth, as well

Deborah said: “Hybrid working took some getting used to during the Covid period, but we’re all used to it now and we have got really good at it, not only for client meetings but also as a tool for business development. Even though we’re able t o get around our new territory fairly easily, having internet conference calls as a tool makes life a lot easier for us and our for clients. However, I’ve always

‘Even small organisations can take steps to become great employers’

felt that face-to-face time with the team was really important, so we can collaborate, have some fun and establish relationships. And it won’t change the fact that the key differentiator of our business is the bespoke element of what we do, working hands-on with our clients, as a business partner. And as a small firm ourselves, we understand their pain points and can help them find solutions. Alongside my two permanent employees I have a part-time freelance consultant available when required. It’s a solid team and I’m expecting significant future growth, with 60% turnover increase expected in the next year alone.”

Deborah added that she expected much of the company’s imminent growth to come from recruitment, which was a particular focus. “We have our own recruitment process which enables us to undercut the majority of agencies,” she said. “Recruitment and HR work hand-in-hand together so it’s key service and one which I think will continue to generate plenty of new business for us.”

A greener way forward for interior design company

Yellow provide a full range of interior design services from concept to completion for commercial properties including offices, retail and hospitality venues. Based in Hampshire, Yellow design for projects across the Solent region, London and the South East.

Alison John, Designer and Owner, said: “As we entered our 22nd year in business we decided it was time to turn Yellow green. The commercial interior design sector and wider construction industry needs serious reform and we’ve adopted the mantra, ‘If not now, when?’

We’re repurposing and repairing existing items, saving the client money as well as reducing waste.

“With a little creativity we’re finding solutions that considerably reduce our impact on the environment without impacting on the style, practicality or cost of our designs.

“Client budgets rarely stretch and practical factors such as safety and hygiene require a pragmatic approach. We’re now on that journey, questioning every product we specify, from the materials used, the manufacturing processes, the transportation, the installation to the end-of-life.

BECOMING GREENER

“We want to do our bit for the planet and we also want to stay relevant and profitable in an ever changing market. We are sourcing pre-owned office furniture for clients that wouldn’t have dreamed of ordering second-hand a few years ago.

AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

Our decision to put sustainability at the heart of our decision making has had so many positive benefits. We have met incredibly innovative designers, had inspiring conversations with suppliers and learnt an enormous amount more about the wider industry we work in. By asking important questions we’ve built stronger relationships with suppliers and developed a network of like-minded professionals. It’s easy to feel gloomy about the future, but when you decide to make changes in your own business it is empowering and gives your work a new sense of purpose.”

For further information please contact hello@yellow-interiors.com

‘We’re repurposing and repairing existing items, saving the client money as well as reducing waste’

L-R: Annabel Robbins, Deborah Weatherell and Emmy Janaway of The HR Dept Solent

New welcome centre completed

Chartered Builders, Greendale Construction Limited, has completed the iconic new Upton Country Park Welcome Centre. Located in the main car park, the stunning superstructure has been built using local Purbeck stone walling with laser cut wording on dressed stone signage, with contrasting sweet chestnut cladding on the walls and overhanging soffits.

The Welcome Centre boasts a bio-diverse living meadow roof, planted up with 34 species of wildflowers. A powder-coated, aluminium metal cladding fascia compliments the main atrium area, with the building benefitting from non-slip porcelain tiles and underfloor heating, partly fuelled by an air source heat pump. Low energy LED lighting has been installed throughout the building. Three insect hotels have been created and

framed in dressed stone, located in the Purbeck walling, with a number of swallow nest cups and bat boxes installed. The Welcome Centre has new unisex toilet facilities, a baby area and accessible WC.

rating of very good. The sustainability framework is underpinned by credible science, allowing the assessment process to identify valuable insights on the asset’s performance. The internationally recognised and third-party cert ification, BREEAM, provides assurance and validation of the data collated throughout the assessment.

A secure staff area and gift/display area has been formed which can be closed off by automatic roller security shutters. The doors into the Welcome Centre a re on automatic movement sensors. Externally, the new perimeter courtyard has coloured Tarmac, with bollards made with oak from the estate. The Welcome Centre has been given a BREEAM

Architectural firm makes strides in carbon neutrality

Stride Treglown is an employee–owned architectural practice and a Certified B Corporation. They are all about creating long–term positive impact for their clients and the communities they help shape.

They do this by designing better places, building resilient partnerships, and empowering people.

Marie Kille, of Stride Treglown, said: “We impact the planet in the way we run our business and through the places and spaces we design. Continuously reducing our direct impact is crucial, and we also seek to influence our clients to minimise the impact of our projects. Through

our ISO14001 accreditation we measure and report our environmental impact annually. Since April 2021 we have been Carbon Neutral, independently verified by Future Leap.

“By signing up to the UN Climate Action Now, UN Race to Zero, and SME Climate Hub Net Zero pledges, we are committed to halving our emissions by 2030 and cutting our emissions to zero before 2050. Our residual carbon emissions are offset through Woodland Carbon Code, Gold Standard and Verified Carbon Standard projects. This includes rewilding, tree planting and restoring parts of the ancient Caledonian forest with Trees for Life.

Rob Hooker, Director of Greendale Construction, commented: “We were delighted to be awarded this project as main contractors.

“We enjoyed working with Western Design Architects and BCP Council. The new Welcome Centre creates a real wow factor for visitors. We wish Roger and his team every success with the ne w building and can’t wait to see the wildflower meadow on the roof in full bloom this coming spring!”

“Through our talented and passionate employees, we actively support organisations promoting regulatory reform including UKGBC, LETI, RIBA and EDI organisations including Women in Property and Building Equality.”

For the full story visit: stridetreglown.com

‘We were delighted to be awarded this project as main contractors’

Marie Kille, of Stride Treglown

Wow factor: The Upton County Welcome Centre

BECOMING GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

BECOMING GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

Zoo goes wild for eco-friendly efforts

By Dr Duncan East, (pictured) Head of Sustainability at Marwell Wildlife

As a conservation charity, operating as sustainably as possible is a key part of Marwell’s operation.

To start our sustainable journey, we first had to know what our environmental impacts were. In 2007 Marwell became one of the first zoos in the UK to employ a dedicated Sustainability Manager to help us get to grips with identifying, managing, and eliminating environmental impacts.

Implementing the environmental standard, ISO14001 in 2008/9, provided the structure needed to ensure we captured all our impacts. It also ensured we had the processes, measurement and monitoring in place to control and record progress against our ambitions.

We started with quick energy efficiency wins: turning equipment off when not in use, switching to LED lighting, making use of natural light, and upgrading to more efficient equipment for things like refrigeration, IT, and pumping water. We also applied these principles to new projects which were designed to be energy

efficient from the start. For example, both Café Graze and the gift shop use natural light reducing the need for artificial light, and Café Graze also uses passive ventilation to reduce the amount of cooling needed.

The larger buildings at Marwell, including the 14thcentury Marwell Hall, were all heated with oil, so we needed a low-carbon alternative. Our herds of large mammals generate sizeable amounts of manure, so we were sure there must be a way to utilise this as a heat source.

Electricity consumption and oil for heating are by far our biggest contributors to our carbon emissions. As such, we switched to renewable energy in 2014, cutting our carbon footprint by 60%.

We also wanted to generate electricity onsite and we now have 160kWp of solar panels. Between them, these generate 150,000kWh per year, enough to power around 40 households.

It wasn’t as easy as we originally thought it would be, but after several years of development, our energy centre is now able to heat six buildings using animal waste. As far as we are aware, Marwell is the first zoo in the world to harness the energy in animal waste and use it to heat buildings.

Our “zoo poo” heating initiative has helped us win a number of accolades including the highly prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development.

Our journey to carbon neutrality was hampered by the pandemic but we are getting back on plan.

Tackling your carbon emissions is all about identifying the source of emissions and tackling them methodically. Not all can be addressed immediately, and a suitable technology may not exist yet for one area of your business. Tackle the emissions you can now and keep looking for the tech that will solve your more difficult issues.

The world needs us all to be more ambitious – not just achieving but surpassing carbon neutrality; not just saving but having a vision for thriving wildlife; not just being economic with resources but making better use of them.

Work begins on new eco-friendly Hendy Group dealership

effort will be made to minimise the carbon footprint of the build, with contractors sourced locally and the use of approved materials used throughout.

development employing around 45 people.

work

take a year on the multi-franchise dealership which will provide state of the art facilities for Nissan, Renault, and Dacia. It will be built to BREEAM excellent standards of sustainability. Every

Additional features in the new development include a two-deck car storage facility to maximise space on site, at least 10 electric vehicle charging bays, and solar panels. Hendy Group Chief Executive Paul Hendy said the partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council will create an environmentally friendly

“This development reinforces our commitment to the area and will provide us with the space needed to look after our customers now and in the future,” he said. “This investment is part of our ongoing expansion plans, and we see Eastleigh as a key location for our longterm future.”

‘Our herds of large mammals generate sizeable amounts of manure, so we were sure there must be a way to utilise this as a heat source’

Work has now begun on a brand-new dealership facility in Eastleigh which will see Hendy Group expand its operations in the town. Hendy is working in partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council to transform the brownfield site in St George’s Way.

Construction

is due to

The ‘Zoo Poo’ initiative generates renewable energy

BECOMING GREENER

AND MORE SUSTAINABLE BECOMING GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

CHAMBER NEWS

ADVICE, NEWS AND UPDATES FROM THE CHAMBER

Chamber offers members a hand with achieving sustainable goals

There are many benefits of becoming an eco-friendly business and HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE can help you achieve this.

Putting your green commitments at the heart of strategic business plans and incorporating them into your business objectives has become a must do and provides real benefits, from the monetary to the reputational and beyond.

A sustainable business has three bottom lines (the 3 Ps): people, planet, and profit. The main driver for any business wishing to become sustainable should always be to protect the environment and the health of local communities.

However, there are also many commercial reasons why sustainability should be a priority as it helps to:

• Improve brand image and reputation

• Increase employee retention and aid recruitment

• Increase productivity and reduce costs

• Get ahead of the curve

Some businesses may be taking steps towards becoming greener; however, many feel lost and unsure where to start.

Hampshire Chamber of Commerce is working with a broad partnership of businesses to deliver relevant information, resource and advice for those who are wishing to become greener and more sustainable. We have created a seven-stage plan as an example for businesses to follow to increase their sustainable practices, allowing businesses to start making small but considerable changes to their business.

For more information and resources to enable your business to become more sustainable head to our website: www.hampshirechamber.co.uk/chamberof-solutions/greeneconomy

Bridging the gap between business and sustainability

The Seven Step Green Plan

This could look something like:

ONE

Improve the office space for employees, slowly turn the office into a green space. This could be buying houseplants to clean the air, increasing natural light and air, replacing outdated equipment and/or using biodegradable cleaning products.

TWO

Going paperless, including paperless billing and digital documents to avoid wasted paper.

THREE

Change all light bulbs in offices to eco-friendly LEDs or motion sensor lights.

FOUR

Using green web hosts.

FIVE

Create an action plan to ensure all lights/electrical items are being turned off each and every night to save power.

SIX

Let employees work from home and/or encourage sustainable travel such as travel to work schemes.

SEVEN

Educate - educate your employees/ team on what they could personally be doing to be ‘more green.

BECOMING GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

Don’t miss Global Annual Conference

On Wednesday 17 May at QEII Centre, London the British Chambers of Commerce will host their Global Annual Conference and the theme for 2023 is Building British Business. The full day conference will be an opportunity for business leaders from across the UK, and the globe, to come together to discuss the opportunities for growth to help local communities thrive.

Throughout the day, delegates will hear from key senior politicians and other notable public-figures about their plans for growth. The conference will be centred around four key breakout sessions for thought-provoking discussion among peers across the Chamber Network.

The four sessions are:

1 Skills

2 Green Innovation

3 Growth/Local Thriving Communities

4 Trade

Away from the sessions, the Networking Zone is an opportunity for delegates to meet existing and new contacts; and the exhibition stands will see the best of British business, and the Chamber Network, from across the UK and around the world showcasing their work.

How much are tickets?

This year ticket prices are as follows:

• Chamber Member £125 plus VAT

• Non-members £250 plus VAT

How do I register?

Visit the website for tickets and more information: www.britishchambers.org.uk

Are you supporting YOUR project manager?

On their own. One Project Manager for all your projects. Many businesses face this challenge daily. Whether it's the launch of new software, a transformation project, an internal restructuring, or the upgrade from on-prem to the cloud, it is not unusual for your Project Manager to struggle to understand the best way forward.

If you want your Project Manager to excel in their field, get the project off the ground successfully, manage the project effectively and deliver on time, look no further than my mentoring service for Project Managers.

As an experienced mentor, I am available to help your Project Manager develop the skills and knowledge they need to deliver on your behalf.

I understand the challenges Project Managers face and have the expertise to guide them through any project, big or small.

I will work with your Project Management resource to explore and identify areas for improvement, develop strategies for success, and provide ongoing support.

Let us avoid…

Interim project management

With over 30 years of experience, I’ve helped organisations of all sizes deliver programmes and projects often in a recovery situation. My expertise can help your business deliver on its goals for 2023 and beyond by providing a set process, clear communication, and an outside perspective. Interested to find out more?

Get in touch for a one-to-one consultation.

CHAMBER GLOBAL

TRADE

EVENTS

TRAINING COURSES

If you would like further information please contact Jackie Highmore via email jacqueline.highmore@hampshirechamber.co.uk

Helping you take your business global New airport boss outlines top priorities

Building and strengthening links with Hampshire’s business community is a key priority for the new boss of Southampton Airport.

Andy Cliffe spoke to Business Voice shortly after taking the reins as Chief Executive of owner and operator AGS Airports, which also runs Aberdeen and Glasgow airports. He has stepped into his new role as runway extension work gets going at Southampton, plans for new schedules are rekindled and progress continues with the development of Solent Freeport.

Signalling a mood of optimism, Mr Cliffe said: “There is still a way to go in terms of getting back to where Southampton was in 2019, but I’m keen to see the airport play its full part in growing what is a fantastic region in which to work, live and visit. We will look to improve connectivity to support inward investment and tourism to the wider region.”

Underpinning that vision is Mr Cliffe’s confidence that the airport and business community are ‘inextricably linked’. It’s a view based on 20 years of experience in the aviation industry with Manchester Airports Group

(MAG) where he was managing director of both Bournemouth and East Midlands airports.

“It is important that the region speaks loudly, with confidence and one voice,” said Mr Cliffe. “That’s how we develop a compelling proposition for airlines to choose to serve Southampton, Eastleigh and Hampshire. There is no escaping the fact that we are operating in a fiercely competitive market. When deciding where best to deploy their aircraft, airlines will look at the cohesion of a region and the scale of its ambition as well as its commitment to using the service.”

Asked what role the airport can play in unlocking Hampshire’s potential, a key aspiration for Hampshire Chamber, he said: “Airports are more than vital pieces of infrastructure. The connectivity they provide is a key driver for any city or region in terms of how it does business, attracts inward investment and exports goods and services. The success of both Southampton Airport and the city’s business community are inextricably linked and I’m keen to harness this relationship. At AGS Airports, we want to nurture existing links with the business community while continuing to forge new relationships.”

As with the wider business community, Mr Cliffe believes the airport has a complementary relationship with Solent Freeport. “Southampton Airport has been a key Solent Freeport partner and contributed a significant area of land for commercial development use to help ensure the bid was successful,” he explained. “It includes 500,000 sq. ft of new business space at Navigator Quarter, adjacent to the runway, and part of a 75-acre site. The Navigator Quarter site is

ideally placed to benefit from excellent air, road, sea and rail connectivity. Phase 1 will deliver over £120m GVA to the UK economy.”

Such connectivity has to be complemented by sustainability, with clean growth a ’core value’ for Southampton Airport, said Mr Cliffe. “It’s about how we balance the social and economic benefits our connectivity undoubtedly delivers with our climate change responsibilities. Aviation growth and decarbonisation are not incompatible goals, and a central pillar of our sustainability strategy is a commitment to build on our carbon neutrality status by achieving net zero by the mid-2030s.”

On progress with the runway extension, he said the airport team have been ‘working tirelessly’, adding: “Early enabling works have already taken place with the main construction kicking off in the next couple of months. Our team and contractor are committed to ensuring that the construction process results in the least possible disruption.”

AGS was established in 2014 and is the second largest airport group in the UK.

The Solent Freeport and the opportunities available

Andy Cliffe believes the airport can help unlock Hampshire’s potential

Andy Cliffe, Chief Executive AGS Airports

CHAMBER POLICY

REPRESENTING OUR MEMBERS LOCALLY, REGIONALLY AND NATIONALLY

Hampshire struggles with rising inflation

Almost 100% of OMBs across the South Coast say rising costs are impacting profitability with inflation still out of control.

Ninety-six per cent of OMBs on the South Coast say that rising costs are impacting their profitability – but almost half say that rising interest rates are their biggest challenge in the next three months, in the latest Owner Managed Business (OMB) survey by Moore UK, the Top 10 accountancy network.

With UK inflation having hit a 41-year high of 11.1% in mid-November 2022, businesses are increasingly struggling against a rising tide of costs. By far the biggest problem when looking at business costs for OMBs in the South, is the increasing cost of energy and utilities, with 47% of them saying it is the issue they are most concerned about, and fuel prices a close second followed by corporation tax.

Sue Lucas, Chair of Moore (South), said: “With inflation still rising, OMBs are under a huge amount of pressure. The cost of energy is a major pain point for virtually every business. For some it is going to test their ability to survive.”

THE FIGURES

• Only 22% of small businesses confident in Government to deliver economic growth

• More than half of businesses surveyed in the South do not plan to increase staff salaries in the next 3 months

• Only 22% of OMBs confident in Government to deliver economic growth in 2023

“Obviously it is early days for the new Government but as yet OMBs are not confident that growth can be delivered in the near term.”

More than half of businesses surveyed on the South Coast do not plan to increase pay or salaries to staff in next three months

Moore’s quarterly survey of owner-managed businesses shows that only 22% of OMBs are confident in the new Government’s ability to deliver economic growth in 2023. Moore UK’s November survey was completed after Rishi Sunak became Prime Minister.

With the UK economy sliding into recession amid political instability in the second half of 2022, many small business owners appeared not to believe that the current Government will be able to return the economy to growth this year.

Sue said: “The changes of Government over recent months seem to have dented small businesses’ confidence.

“The majority of them don’t believe we’re going to see economic growth in 2023 under the present leadership.”

Moore’s survey shows that 54% of businesses polled are not planning to increase pay for their team in the next three months and only 15% of those surveyed have given pay rises out in the last three months, with the majority of businesses providing free drinks meals or snacks as an alternative to help their team through the cost of living crisis.

Sue added: “Recruitment and retention of people is still a key challenge for a lot of owner-managed businesses. Any support that can be put in place for employees to help them financially is likely to be well received.”

‘The changes of government over recent months seem to have dented small businesses’ confidence’

Building Safety Act: what you need to know

The construction industry has faced a swathe of changes, following the implementation of the Building Safety Act 2022 (“the Act”). Considering its gravitas and its far-reaching powers that can affect many, there is precious little content out there warning those within the sector of the key changes the Act has brought about.

Construction Solicitor, Fainche Whelan (pictured), at Paris Smith LLP, explains.

The Building Safety Act received Royal Assent on 28 April 2022, following a legislative process that lasted almost 3 years. Designed to tighten regulation in the construction industry following the tragedy of the Grenfell Tower fire, the Act marks the most radical change to the industry in 50 years.

Who is affected?

The Act applies to a wide range of parties, from developers, landlords and tenants, to those who commission construction work, including designers and contractors. Certain parts of the Act apply to both commercial and residential buildings, but the Act places specific controls and obligations on “high-risk buildings”, defined as residential buildings, including student accommodation, hospitals and care homes that are at least 18 metres or seven storeys high.

To p takeaways for businesses

The Act has created a new regulator, namely the Building Safety Regulator (“BSR”). The BSR is appointed on highrisk construction projects the from planning, up to occupation of the building and have the power to impose spot notices, fire notices and even the opportunity to prosecute businesses and individuals for supplying/installing dangerous products or buildings that fall foul of the Act. The Act

delves into detail as to what constitutes a “defective” product/building, but businesses affected by the Act should know that the punishments associated with breaching the Act range from fines to up to two years’ imprisonment.

Following on from this, the costs linked with remedying safety defects (i.e. removing/replacing unsafe cladding) are not recoverable from leaseholders of “long leases” and instead, developers/freeholders and landlords are now responsible for such costs. Not only does this place additional responsibilities on these parties, contractors and manufacturers will be increasingly sought by building owners to recover costs associated with correcting safety defects.

The importance of building owners to be involved in all stages of a construction project is becoming increasingly clear. However, the industry still awaits the full effects of the Act to sink in, and for the much-needed improvements required to health and safety within the sector to be felt.

Fainche Whelan is a Solicitor, specialising in non-contentious construction, in the Commercial Property department at Paris Smith LLP, a full-service law firm with offices in Southampton and Winchester. Fainche can be contacted on 023 8048 2168 or Fainche.Whelan@parissmith.co.uk

The Grenfell Tower fire tragedy has forced regulations to change

Work scheme aims to give individuals in recovery a fresh start

A new city council service has been launched in Portsmouth and surrounding areas to help people rebuild their lives through employment after recovering from alcohol and drug addiction.

RE:WORK is based on the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model of supported employment, which research has shown is effective in helping people back into sustained work as part of their recovery.

The new service, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions and backed by the Department of Health and Social Care for three years, has been established to take referrals from Hampshire NHS Inclusion teams at Fareham, Gosport and Havant and from the Society of St James in Portsmouth. The health teams will refer to RE:WORK people who have shown the courage and commitment to go through recovery treatment programmes to recover from their addictions and who now want to get a job.

The partnership between Crowdfunder UK has been renewed for another year by Portsmouth City Council to support business and community projects over the next year.

than ever that our start-up businesses and community organisations can get access to funding support in order to deliver on great ideas that benefit our communities and economy in Portsmouth.”

The four-strong RE:WORK team will work with employers and clients to set up sustainable employment opportunities across the south Hampshire area. RE:WORK Team Leader Stephen Hogan said the new project was focused on building sustainable employment opportunities for people - a key part of the city council's regeneration programme for the region.

He said: “We want to reach out to employers to work with in partnership. Clients we will work with and support will come from a variety of previous employment backgrounds and now want to move forward into work as part of their personal rebuilding and recovery journeys.

“Our clients will have shown commitment and motivation to change their lives for the betterqualities we feel employers are looking for. Reporting back to government, we will celebrate success and highlight employers who have worked with us to help clients change their lives.”

For further information on RE:WORK, contact: IPS@portsmouthcc.gov.uk Or visit: www.portsmouth.gov.uk/ips

The partnership helps to make great ideas happen through a combination of match funding, expert crowdfunding coaching and events. Monies raised through crowdfunding can be match funded up to the value of £5,000.

‘The Crowdfunder partnership benefits local business and community projects’

The council launched the Crowdfunder partnership two years ago. Crowdfunder Portsmouth has supported 34 projects in the city including Natty's Jerk who raised funding for a fixed premises, new equipment for the Portsmouth Golden Gloves Boxing Club’s, Octopus Story a multimedia arts project and Cumberland Infant School's green spaces. £212,068 raised on the crowdfunding platform by qualifying community projects was matched by council funds of £105,730 over the duration of the project.

Portsmouth City Council are able to continue funding Crowdfunder following approval from councillors to support businesses through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Jane Lamer, Head of Economic Development and Skills at Portsmouth City Council, said: “The Crowdfunder partnership benefits local business and community projects. It is more important

There are currently two funds available; Portsmouth Small Business fund which supports new business startups and existing small businesses to grow and Portsmouth CIL Transformation Fund which support community projects that have a wider community benefit. This funding comes from the Community Infrastructure Levy fund (CIL), which allows local authorities to raise funds from developers who are undertaking new building projects in their area.

The latest business to launch a Crowdfunder campaign is The Portsmouth Distillery. After winning ‘Best Rum’ in the Great British Food Awards 2022 this start up business are ready to grow to the next level to reach a national market.

Marcus Wilson, Crowdfunder Programme Lead at Shaping Portsmouth, said: “This is fantastic news that Portsmouth City Council have made such a positive decision to renew their agreement with Crowdfunder. To continue to have the council supporting investment in businesses and community projects, utilising Crowdfunder, is so enabling, and really helps to keep an upward trajectory on the benefits across Portsmouth. A big thank you as this is a very meaningful contribution for the future.’’

For more information visit portsmouth.gov.uk/cil or call the Business Helpline on 023 9284 1641

‘Our clients will have shown commitment and motivation to change their lives for the better - qualities we feel employers are looking for’

Partnership renewed to support businesses

GREEN BUSINESS

Is saving the planet the only reason businesses are rushing to go green?

Unless your business is large enough to face legislation there is no immediate reason to embark on a strategy to help save the planet. So why are so many organisations choosing to back the green agenda?

Undoubtedly, for some, it is all about the crusade. But for many others, it's not that they have more time on their hands than you do, or that they feel duty-bound to save the planet. Not at all. It's simply down to the fact that in almost every case it has reaped far-reaching rewards. And the reason why once they embarked on such a journey, they quickly laid the foundations to continue along that path.

For the team behind the region’s Big Sustainability Expo and Big Sustainability Awards, The Southern Sustainability Partnership, their crusade is simple. To ensure businesses understand how to reap those same rewards. Indeed, they tell us, it is in tough times like these the green agenda really comes into its own.

‘Embarking on a robust green strategy forces business leaders to scrutinise their overall business practices’

In difficult times when a company needs the stability of a steady cash flow, the last thing it needs is to weaken its position through increased and unnecessary spending.

Th e green mantra has always been one of reduce, reduce, reduce. So, embarking on a robust green strategy forces business leaders to scrutinise their overall business practices. To undertake more joined-up thinking that is often lost as a company grows. While using that knowledge as the bigger picture from which to adopt more centralised thinking and action.

Their advice is to take time to work on as well as in your business to ensure you can see that overall picture.

This is especially significant when it comes to buying strategies and the use of those resources in all their many forms. Involve your leadership team who in turn can involve their own team. And ensure you are clear about why you are doing this to ensure they are on side. Assess where your costs are coming from and whether combined purchasing will reduce what you use as well as provide you with stronger buying power.

Look once more at your suppliers. Move away from the mindset we have always done it this way and review your processes to streamline and reduce both costs and waste. Consider whether you need to buy new.

Today, IT equipment is being refurbished to the highest standards. While many businesses are choosing second-hand furniture for their offices. Look at your stationary cupboard to see what you are buying.

And, importantly, what do your waste bins look like? And what is the removal of your waste costing you? And, before we finish, we must add that these strategies will ensure you are able to meet the changing expectations of

CELEBRATING HAMPSHIRE FIRMS TAKING THE STEPS TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

BECOMING GREENER AND MORE

your customers, stakeholders, and workforce. Prepare you for pending legislation as you grow – as well as support applications for finance and tenders.

There is plenty of help available, they are keen to stress. Online case studies, experts, organisations, associations, institutes, dedicated magazines, local groups, and consultants.

And, of course, a vital event like ours in October bringing them all together under one roof. Without exception is the inevitable reduction in the cost of running your business and, in turn, improvement of your processes.

Plus, the positive by-product of the reduction of the environmental impact of your business too. So, go ahead. Get started and make sure you shout about it from the rooftops too.

The Big Sustainability & Innovation Expo (Southampton) 2023

www.southernsustainability.co.uk

SUSTAINABLE

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK INTO THE KEY BUSINESS SECTORS OF THE REGION

Understanding workplace stress

The effects of work on our physical health are well known – work can cause problems for our hearing, lungs, skin, our muscles and joints. But increasingly it is our minds that are being challenged by the jobs that we do. Zoe Drew (pictured) of HCS Safety explains workplace stress and how to deal with it.

What is workplace stress?

The Health & Safety Executive defines workplace stress as “A harmful reaction people have to undue pressures and demands placed on them at work.”

Many of us can be highly motivated by the challenges of a tight deadline, or the sense of achievement we get from completing a difficult piece of work, but if that deadline is unachievable or there are other barriers to us doing a good job, then we may be straying from pressure into stress.

Workplace stress is a difficult subject to tackle as it can be very subjective and lots of factors are in play, but tackle it we must as it is one of the biggest challenges facing employers today.

The business case for preventing and managing workplace stress

Latest HSE figures show:

• 914,000 workers in the UK are suffering work-related stress, depression or anxiety, that’s over 50% of all work-related illness.

• 17.0 million working days lost due to work-related stress, depression or anxiety

• £5.3bn – estimated cost to employers of work-related stress

The figures speak for themselves, but there is hope! On the positive side, preventing and managing stress in our workforce can achieve:

• Higher levels of commitment from our workers

• Increased performance, quality of work and productivity

• Higher attendance levels

• Better retention of staff levels = reduction in required recruitment

• Increased customer satisfaction

• Improved organisational image and reputation

• Reduction in potential litigation claims

• Increased capability and workforce resilience

What are the most important factors for workplace stress?

There are six key areas to consider:

1. Demands: Workload/shift patterns/the work environment/work equipment

2. Control: How much say people have in how they do their jobs

3. Support: Encouragement and feedback from managers and colleagues

4. Relationships: Discrimination, bullying, team building, dealing with conflict

5. Role: Clarity of job descriptions and responsibilities

6. Change: Communication – clarity v gossip. Consultation over changes

These six areas are the key to preventing and managing workplace stress. They are the HSE’s Management Standards – the closest thing we have to legal guidance on workplace stress. A clear understanding of how well we deal with these six areas is essential in dealing with this.

What should employers do?

Assess your risks

A stress survey is a great place to start. The HSE has produced a questionnaire based on the six Management Standards above that will help employers to identify where to prioritise. It is free to download from the HSE’s website: www.hse.gov.uk

Understand the happy chemicals

The human body is an incredible thing and as well as producing the stress hormone Cortisol, it also produces other, more positive chemicals that affect our mood. So, what are they and how do we help our staff make more of them?

Dopamine: The rewarding chemical

• Completing a task

• Games and puzzles

• Eating food

Oxytocin: The love hormone

• Hugging loved ones

• Holding a baby

• Socialising

Seratonin: The mood stabiliser

• Sun exposure

• Meditating

• Being in nature

Endorphin: The pain killer

• Laughing

• Exercising

• Dark chocolate

If we can make it easier for our staff to exercise at lunchtimes, especially out in the fresh air and with colleagues, then we might just be able to create all of the happiness chemicals, and it won’t cost a penny.

Train your staff

Gaining a full understanding of the causes and effects of stress and the ways to manage it can all be found in one day on the NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Managing Stress at Work course. Knowing how to recognise and deal with mental health issues in the workplace is an important skill and so First Aid for Mental Health courses are a fantastic option too.

Talk to the experts

If you’d like support or training in preventing and managing workplace stress, or any other health and safety matter, please contact us at HCS Safety Ltd.

See our advertisement below.

Mental health – reducing the stigma and having supportive conversations

Knowing that mental health is a priority in the workplace is a start. Being aware of the various mental health conditions you might come across within your organisation is even better. However, how much time have you spent actively attempting to reduce the stigma and have supportive conversations around mental health? Do your colleagues feel comfortable and able to approach you about theirs? Emily Cole (pictured) of Yellowday Training looks at how we can all reduce the stigma.

Three simple steps to reduce the stigma You can take three simple steps to show your colleagues that you are open to conversation. These steps don’t require a lot of time but will instantly impact your team:

1.Make mental health part of your daily vocabulary. In meetings, don’t dive straight into business, start by checking in with a ‘how are you?’ and make time for an answer.

2.Signpost your colleagues to support –even if they didn’t ask. There are thousands of free resources available through charities such as Mind, Mental Health at Work, Samaritans and more that are easy to display in a communal space, or add to your email signature.

3. Model the behaviour you want to see. Let your staff see you stressed, share how that makes you feel (within a reason that is comfortable to you) and show them that it is OK to not be ‘on it’ 100% of the time. When we are our busiest we so often mask our emotions to appear calm and collective, projecting an unrealistic goal to our team.

Having supportive conversations

The above steps might just start conversations that otherwise would have been left unsaid. By reducing the stigma you are opening the gates for your team to feel comfortable in sharing. A supportive conversation around mental health needs to be in a safe environment for both of the participants:

• Allow time – block it out in your diary and avoid rushing or watching the clock

• Stay positive but serious – no jokes here

• Sit down and keep your body language open and nonconfrontational – sit somewhere comfortable and uncross your arms!

• Take them seriously and be an empathetic listener –don’t rush to a solution or idea

• Put down the notepad – pay attention and give eye contact, if that is what your colleague is comfortable with.

Often, it comes down to confidence and the belief that the complex conversation mental health issues can be are better left to the professionals. Yes, it is important to direct a person struggling to the correct expert support, however, we can begin that process by making a few small changes.

Mental Health First Aiders

It may be time for your organisation to consider training a member of staff as a Mental Health First Aider. If that is something you might be interested in, there are wide range of training options to consider, depending on the size of your organisation and the role of the person taking part in the training.

Don’t forget, mental health first aid works similarly to physical first aid, and is recommended to be refreshed regularly. This helps keep a first aider up to date with support available and keep the skills fresh in their mind for if and when they need to be applied.

Upcoming online training dates:

MHFA® Mental Health First Aid

(2-day course)

20 & 22 June

Or 10 & 12 October 2023

MHFA® Mental Health First Aid

Refresher

24 October 2023

Please note, we are also able to support with in-organisation training for groups of colleagues.

For more information on Mental Health First Aid training options, please contact Emily at Yellowday Training on 02392 637 372 or emily@yellowday.co.uk

Find out about all of the training topics we can support with at www.yellowday.co.uk

Choosing the right logistics partner for you

Finding the right logistics partner is of the utmost importance for exporters. There is more to the role than delivering products to your customers – a good logistics partner should also be able to improve supply chain efficiency, effectively manage costs and enhance your customer service. Business Voice looks at what to consider when choosing a logistics partner.

Price

You may be tempted to choose the partner that is the cheapest, but be warned – a logistics provider that does not meet your needs or expectations could wind up costing you more in the long run. Normally the costs should include transportation, warehouse storage, packaging and shipping, but check that the pricing model is transparent and there aren’t any ‘hidden’ charges you may encounter. Is there a monthly minimum payment? Are you being offered an introductory fee that will be increased in a few months’ time? Do they offer money back guarantees if you’re unhappy with their service?

Reputation

There are a lot of logistics companies out there, so it stands to reason that some of them are going to better than others. The reputation of your chosen partner is important – after all, the reputation of your business stands to be affected by the competence and expertise (or lack thereof) of your supply chain. If your logistics partner does a bad job it will reflect badly on you, and you may lose customers because of their mistakes. Check online reviews, social media and testimonials.

Customer service

Alongside reputation, customer service is another key factor to consider. If something goes wrong in your supply chain, or if there are costly delays, you need to be sure that the issues will be communicated clearly and swiftly dealt with. Will your chosen partner make you feel like a priority, or will they prioritise the needs of larger firms? Will you have a dedicated agent to speak to, or will you be left to the mercy of a chat bot? Do they offer 24/7 customer service, or will any weekend issues be left until Monday morning?

Services & expertise

On the face of it, the primary service offered by a logistics partner is the transport of goods from one place to another. However, not every logistics partner will offer the same services, or the same level of expertise. Food and drink exporters will need, for example, a partner that can transport chilled and/or frozen goods, while partners that operate on a small scale will not be the best option for exporters that require large-scale distribution. Keep in mind your particular needs and make sure your chosen partner can meet them.

Technology

Does your chosen partner offer the latest technology innovations, or are their operations slow and antiquated? Technology plays a huge role in smooth and efficient delivery, and a partner with extensive technology at their fingertips can help you save both time and money. Warehouse automation will provide you with up-to-date reports at every stage in the process and allow you track your shipments from warehouse to customer, while a web-based booking system will allow you to submit an order at any time, anytime, making the process much faster and smoother.

Safety & security

Your chosen partner will both store and transport your goods, so if you want them to arrive on time and in one piece it’s vital that you check their safety awareness and operations if you don’t want to put your products are risk. Ask to see their storage facilities and enquire about their packaging and shipping processes. Are staff properly trained? How are accidents managed and mitigated? What security systems do they have in place to protect goods at every stage of the journey?

EVENTS

DEVELOPING YOUR BUSINESS

THE LATEST LIST OF CHAMBEREVENTS TO HELP YOU NETWORK AND GROW

Events to build your network and unlock potential

The start of 2023 has presented a unique variety of events and opportunities for our members, supporters, and collaborators.

From Portsmouth and South Coast Business Week, through our PURE Networking sessions to the LSIP Employer Engagement Workshops and Summit these events have provided rich, in-depth discussions which will be invaluable as wee seek to understand and respond to the challenges business face and the skills needs across the county.

As we enter the second quarter of 2023, the Chamber has a range of events that will support employers to truly unlock the great potential found across Hampshire, foreground skills, support a pathway for SMEs to grow sustainably. As we help you development you network these sessions across the county will continue to demonstrate good practice, effective engagement, support enterprise, and enhance the reputation of all.

April - July 2023 Events

Chamber of Solutions - New Business Ventures and Strategies for Growth

Online Business Solutions Session led by Chamber Members

Date: 18 April

Time: 09:30 – 11:00

“It started with a phish” – with Black Arrow Cyber Consulting Ltd

Part of 6S for Success, this bite sized introduction and workshop for business leaders will demonstrate how to manage a cyber security incident. Supported by the South East Cyber Resilience Centre, a policeled partnership with academia and businesses.

Date: 19 April

Time: 09:30 – 12:00

Speed Networking with the Neighbours

Hampshire, Sussex and Surrey Chambers of Commerce Joint Networking at Lythe Hill

Hotel

Time: 14:00 – 16:00

Date: 19 April

PURE Networking at the Holiday Inn Southampton-Eastleigh

Facilitated Networking Open To All

Date: 24 April

Time: 16:00 – 18:00

Have Your Cake & Eat It... At BASE Bordon

Surrey & Hampshire Chambers of Commerce joint networking with afternoon tea

Date: 26 April

Time: 14:00 – 16:00

PURE Networking at the Brickworks Museum

Facilitated Networking Open To All

Date: 16 May

Time: 14:00 – 16:00

Solent Freeport - Open for business in 2023

Held in partnership with the IoD, this event will discuss what the Solent Freeport means for local business, how to access support, HMRC advice including funding and what can be done to enhance skills to build the workforce needed.

Date: 24 May

Time: 10:00 – 13:30

Open 18 Golf Competition at Stoneham Golf Club with Surrey Chamber of Commerce

Date: 4 July

Time: 09:00 – 15:00

Partner with the Chamber and build a network

Many businesses have successfully developed effective networks and grown their reputation through partnerships with the Chamber. Do you have an idea for a theme, respond to a topical event or would you like to sponsor part of the Chamber programme?

Get in touch by emailing Events.South@hampshirechamber.co.uk

TRAINING

BOOST YOUR WORKFORCE WITH CHAMBERTRAINING

Training to upskill your staff and grow your business

Learning, development, and upskilling within organisations has proved challenging for several years.

Through our members and providers, we continue to develop and evolve our training programme to deliver top of the range training courses at affordable rates.

International Trade plays a huge part in Hampshire. With two major ports and an airport, businesses located in the region, as well as the Solent Freeport, have fantastic links to Europe and beyond. We can offer a wide range of training courses to ensure that those who are involved with import and export receive the training that they need to operate efficiently and effectively.

From May, we are pleased to have partnered with Good Skills Training Ltd to deliver a new suite of workplace compliance training. Supported by and hosted at Fareham College, this new partnership will help us ensure that employers in our network are supported to create the safe and accessible workplace environment that can help colleagues and businesses thrive.

For more information on all our training courses, please visit our website.

PREPARED FOR GROWTH

April - June 2023Training Courses

Export Documentation (Virtual)

Date: Tuesday 2 May

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

Understanding Commodity Codes

Date: Wednesday 3 May

Time: 09:30 – 13:00

Understanding Export (Virtual)

Date: Thursday 4 May

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

Social Media for Beginners –Fareham College

Date: Wednesday 10 May

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

Emergency First Aid at Work (First Aid Industry Body Accredited) – Fareham College

Date: Wednesday 11 May Time: 09:30 – 16:00

Methods of Payment (Virtual)

Date: Tuesday 16 May

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

Import Procedures (Virtual)

Date: Wednesday 17 May

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

Documentary Letters of Credit (Virtual)

Date: Thursday 18 May

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

First Aid at Work (First Aid Industry Body Accredited) - Fareham College

Date: 24-26 May

Time: 09:30 – 16:00 each day

Preferential Rules of Origin (Virtual)

Date: Wednesday 31 May

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

Inward/Outward Processing

Date: Thursday 1 June

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

Kick Start your Marketing (Online - Members Only)

Date: Tuesday 6 June

Time: 12:30 – 14:00

QNUK Level 2 Award in Mental Health at Work - Fareham College

Date: Monday 7 June

Time: 09:30 – 17:00

Fire Marshal Training Fareham College

Date: Wednesday 12 June

Time: 09:30 - 13:00

Incoterms Rules (Virtual)

Date: Tuesday 13 June

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

Customs Procedures & Documentation (Virtual)

Date: Wednesday 14 June

Time: 09:30 – 12:30

Show off your skills and lead a training session

Leading training for your peers can be a great way to demonstrating excellence in a field. In 23/24 our development priorities are Security; Social, Strategy, Sustainability, Skills, and Sales – our 6S for Success. Do you have an idea that could help fellow members respond to these enterprise challenges, or would you like to sponsor or accredit part of the Chamber’s training programme?

Get in touch by emailing train@hampshirechamber.co.uk

SECTOR FOCUS

NEWS AND ADVICE FROM THE SECTORS THAT MATTER TO BUSINESS

BECOMING

GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

Food workshops for GCSE pupils

Hampshire Fare, the county food group, in partnership with LEAF Education, have delivered workshops about local produce to Food and Nutrition GCSE students at The Mountbatten School in Romsey.

It was an inspiring start to the new term at The Mountbatten School in Romsey when Hampshire Fare was invited to deliver informative talks all about local produce, seasonality, and careers in the food industry to Year 11 Food and Nutrition GCSE Students.

Tracy Nash, Commercial Manager, Hampshire Fare, and Jo Hatton, South East Regional Education Consultant, LEAF Education, delivered the workshops to help the students learn more about regional produce and discover local food heroes.

The workshops covered: what is seasonal food, what is local food, and what food does our area specialise in? They considered the benefits and drawbacks of using local ingredients in dishes, which cafes and shops in

the area use and sell local and seasonal ingredients, and whether any current trends and initiatives are boosting the use of local ingredients. Students were also asked to choose their favourite locally produced ingredients, before suggesting ways that these ingredients could be used in their upcoming cookery exam.

from Hampshire Fare’s award-winning ‘Stay Loyal Stay Local’ campaign. The artwork features characters in the local food and drink community. The students were really engaged with this fun and interactive element.”

Jo Hatton added: “It is so important for consumers to appreciate the value of their local food producers, and to have an insight into the range and quality of what is available. The students were clearly impressed and had a better understanding of the many careers they could choose within the food industry.”

Tracy Nash commented: “The workshops were really enjoyable. We handed out Hampshire Fare guides to discovering food and drink in the Test Valley, and introduced the students to the wide range of produce available locally, including pork pies from Tatchbury Manor Farm and fresh trout from ChalkStream Foods. We also held a ‘Local Producers Career Challenge’ using stickers

Emily Grice, Food and Nutrition Teacher, said: “Hampshire Fare and LEAF Education’s visits were informative, interactive and engaging. They not only helped the students deliver their recipes, but also provided an insight into the world beyond school, and how to support their communities and environment.”

James Langer, Food Technology Teacher, added: “The sessions were truly engaging for our students and the information given will be essential for the students’ current GCSE written assessment.”

‘It is so important for consumers to appreciate the value of their local food producers’

Jo Hatton, LEAF Education (left) and Tracy Nash, Hampshire Fare (right) with Jaime, Paige and Charlotte, Food and Nutrition students at The Mountbatten School

Plans on track for SWR’s vision of a sustainable future

South Western Railway (SWR) has recently launched its new sustainability strategy - Journey to a Better Future - which sets out an ambitious programme for serving, safeguarding, and strengthening its people, places, and the planet.

Following the announcement of its landmark commitment to become a net zero carbon train operator by 2040, 10 years ahead of the UK’s overall legal deadline, the strategy expands on SWR’s mission to become an industry leader in all aspects of sustainability.

As the cost-of-living crisis deepens and recession looms over the UK economy, the launch of the strategy is accompanied by fresh public polling carried out with YouGov, which has revealed:

• The public is more likely to think policies for tackling climate change should be prioritised over policies to achieve high economic growth. 49% of the public believes that policies tackling climate change should be prioritised, even if economic growth is slower. 34%, on the other hand, believes policies for high economic growth should be prioritised, even if they are not the best for tackling climate change.

• Younger people (18-24) are more likely to prioritise policies for tackling climate change (58%) over policies for economic growth (18%).

• The public is split over what the priority for public spending should be. 43% of those polled believe spending on preventing the impact of climate change is a priority now and should be significantly increased, even if this means cuts are needed elsewhere. This compares to 42% who believe we should focus on other more urgent priorities.

• Just over half (51%) of the public is concerned about future travel disruption due to extreme weather associated with climate change.

However, the polling also showed the public is less willing to prioritise the environment when it comes to spending their own money:

• 47% say their current priority is saving money, regardless of the effect this may have on the environment, compared with only 16% who prioritise acting in an environmentally friendly way, regardless of the effect this may have on their personal finances.

BECOMING GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

• 52% of all those polled are not willing to pay extra to use more environmentally friendly forms of transport, but almost two fifths (38%) would pay more.

• A majority (56%) of the public thinks that environmental impact is important when deciding what mode of transport to use, but more of the public believes that convenience (95%) and cost (91%) are important. Those living in London are the most likely (68%) to believe environmental impact is important.

Claire Mann, Managing Director of South Western Railway, said: “As one of the UK’s largest train operating companies, we connect the people and places that matter, but we also know our customers care about more than just their journey. This polling shows that, even during times of economic hardship, people want to us to prioritise doing things in a more sustainable way.

“Our bold sustainability strategy is designed to deliver just that, setting out a series of pledges to have a positive impact on our people, places, and ultimately our whole planet.”

How to boost export ROI through translation

LO-C 30 research from the Association of Translation Companies and Aston Business School shows that SMEs who invest in ‘language capabilities are 30% more successful in exporting than those that do not. This research, carried out with data from more than 400 SMEs proves categorically that language support can significantly increase export sales, growth and profits.

Successful exporters use a range of approaches to boost their capabilities: hiring people with language skills and high cultural intelligence, providing language training to existing staff, or investing in professional translation services that couple human translators and interpreters with sophisticated language technologies.

Languages open the doors for trade

So why are so many companies on the back foot when it comes to language power?

British Academy’s 'Born Global’ project surveyed 410 SMEs and found that 62% of non-exporters are blocked by language barriers, and 55% by cultural barriers. This lack of foreign language skills is calculated to be costing the UK up to £48bn a year – equivalent to 3.5% of GDP. Furthermore, 83% of SMEs in the UK use English and no other languages at all.

Perhaps the gap is partly due to the lack of solid advice on language services on offer to business.

Sarah Bawa Mason, Commercial Collaborations Lead for the Association of Translation Companies (ATC), has been combing the websites of business entities and international trade bodies for the last

year looking at export advice for business.

“While many advice sites recommend that companies placing in-demand products overseas consider the culture and customs of the new market, geography, trade terms and regulations, and a fail-safe method for getting paid, none of those I surveyed in 2022 actually made any overt mention of language capabilities,” she said.

“ATC member companies have helped businesses sell Cornish ice cream to Dubai, industrial safety mats to the Middle East, and even secured a tour of Poland for an English Symphony Orchestra, simply by translating the content needed to get them seen and heard in the new markets.”

Easy wins, legal requirements and risk management

Translation is one of the easiest wins on your export journey, because people prefer to buy in their own language. Translation is also often a legal requirement to enter a regulated market. But it is brand-critical risk management, too. Just as you protect your brand and its voice in the domestic market, you need to make sure that it travels across cultures, customs and languages without damage.

By Sarah Bawa Mason (pictured), Commercial Collaborations Lead for the Association of Translation Companies (ATC)

So how can you deploy language capabilities to open doors for trade?

If you are considering expanding into the global marketplace, join the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce on 9 May for a webinar focusing on adding ROI through translation.

Here, you will have the chance to put your questions, queries and doubts on language capability to a panel of experienced local Language Service Companies including Wessex Translations and Sandberg Translation Partners, with added intelligence on export issues from expert panel member John Goldsbrough, International Trade Adviser with the Department for International Trade.

ATC-member Language Service Companies in the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce area have first-hand experience of helping UK companies to establish markets abroad. Panel members will describe real world scenarios where language capability made the difference to a range of clients, providing clear insight into where new export opportunities might lie for you and your business.

If your company is thinking of expanding abroad, you can access simple initial advice by using the ATC Talk Global Tool for SMEs at: www.talkglobaladvisor.co.uk. By answering a few short questions, the tool will tell you how well you are placed to tackle your overseas market!

Why trumpeting your green credentials is more than just hot air

Many businesses are determined to tackle climate change but don’t feel confident communicating their progress. Philip Tutt-Leppard (pictured), Independent Consultant at 360 integrated PR, explains why environmental communications matter.

BECOMING GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

Communication builds trust Customers, regulators, investors and other stakeholders expect to hear what business is doing to counter the existential threat of global heating. The 2022 Edelman Trust Barometer found 52% of people do not feel business is doing enough to address climate change. Businesses won’t change that view unless we communicate more effectively.

‘It is vital to embed sustainability into your business model’

Most importantly, your business journey sets an example and encourages others to pursue their own net zero plans. That ‘nudge’ may be just what fellow

Chamber members need and what persuades more customers to buy from you.

I often find leaders fear they are on their own. They are not. Deloitte’s global survey of C-suite leaders reveals 84% do not believe environmental sustainability and financial profitability are at odds. They either agree or strongly agree that global climate goals can be delivered without losing economic improvement.

That is why it is vital to embed sustainability into your business model, not just your marketing activity. Map the journey, prioritise your stakeholders and tell your story, remembering the old adage – under promise and over deliver.

How to communicate? Get in touch to discuss your net zero journey at:

www.360integrated.com

The benefits of positive energy leadership

Adisruptions to supply chains, ballooning inflation and a severe skills shortage, it is vital that business leaders take on a positive mentality to improve their productivity and financial performance. However, do you have the positive energy leadership skills necessary to navigate your way through potentially challenging times?

The current political instability and financial turmoil has pushed the vitalness of management best practice to the top of the corporate agenda. But if businesses are losing skilled employees or are unable to attract the right people to the right roles, even well-managed companies will struggle to fulfil orders and uphold high standards of customer service. At a time when many industries are facing skills shortages, employers are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain talented people.

Implementing positive energy leadership behaviours can help companies inspire and retain employees and maintain outputs during challenging trading periods. Yet, with so many dayto-day challenges to deal with, some business leaders are unable to dedicate time to bettering their leadership skills, leaving them stuck in fire-fighting mode.

Moreover, skyrocketing fuel and energy costs are forcing workers to make tough choices on how they manage their household income, and consumer confidence has dropped.

The Bank of England has cautioned that the United Kingdom economy is heading for recession and, as many business leaders know, this can reduce workplace moral and heighten feelings of job insecurity. Showcasing positive energy leadership, by creating a strong workplace culture where individuals and teams can thrive, can increase business resilience, while improving cashflow management and strengthening stakeholder relationships.

encouraging a positive attitude led from the top and promoting positive, teamfocused behaviours encouraging individuals and teams to be the best that they can be. These techniques can be used to encourage all areas of business, from customer service to sales, as well as supply chain and financial management.

In an ideal world this would be practiced all year round, however the real test comes when things don’t go to plan and the company is facing challenges. How leaders respond to these circumstances can have a lasting impression on the management team and the workforce as a whole, and can help to nurture a loyal, inspired group of people.

How to foster positivity

For company owners or managers wanting to implement positive attributes into their procedures and processes, it is critical to consider their wider impact on the company. Creating a strong communication network within a company is one way that leaders can guarantee information is efficiently getting to and from the right people.

For instance, positive energy leadership may involve finding opportunities to negotiate a better price from suppliers, deciding how much cost can be passed on to customers, or implementing cross-functional teams to discuss pricing strategy. It could also include reaching out to the workforce for cost saving ideas and implementing them.

Summary

By implementing positive energy leadership, companies will be advantageously positioned to face the challenges that lie ahead, while still being prepared to respond rapidly to commercial opportunities. As they prepare for 2023, business leaders must ensure they have the positive attitude required to get the most out of their employees and achieve the best possible outcome for their company.

& Marketing Executive, Menzies LLP

‘Positive energy leadership consists of encouraging a positive attitude led from the top and promoting positive, team-focused behaviours’

Putting sustainable technology at the heart of business

Ithis. However, it is really hard for people and organisations to know exactly what to do. We have gone from a situation where almost no one talks about it, to information overload, with very little clarity.

Greentech South was founded in 2015 through Future South - a public-private partnership, led by Hampshire Chamber and involving local business, local authorities and the region's Universities. It is currently hosted by the University of Portsmouth and was established with an intention to develop a cleantech innovation cluster.

Cleantech refers to sustainable technologies and services aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting a low-carbon economy, including renewable energy, water conservation, and waste management.

The Greentech South team said: “We have seen tremendous success, and have witnessed the development of an innovation cluster of over 400 regional companies, securing over £15m to support our transition to a zero-carbon economy. This has resulted in a further £55m inward investment and 300+ jobs safeguarded or created. We have demonstrated, as a mature cluster, the value of new clean technologies, services or processes. Our pedigree has been recognised by a group of the world’s leading Cleantech innovation clusters, as the only UK member of the International Cleantech Network. Representing 20 clusters over four continents with a community of over 18,000 SMEs.

“There is an opportunity for Chamber members to access this community and the potential markets represented by this global network. We have also been able to provide support for energy efficiency and innovation through interactive workshops, bespoke tailored assistance and small grants.”

BECOMING GREENER

AND MORE SUSTAINABLE

‘We have demonstrated, as a mature cluster, the value of new clean technologies, services or processes’

David Hutchinson, Director of Greentech South

MEMBERS

NEW MEMBERS

HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME ITS NEW MEMBERS

Premier Partners

Humony

Chineham, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8AG www.humony.co.uk hello@humony.co.uk

Humony - Oracle NetSuite solution partner, offering a human touch to business and software services. Oracle NetSuite is a leading integrated cloud business software suite for ERP (enterprise resource planning), encompassing financials, CRM and ecommerce all on a single system. Used by more than 33,000 cust omers from start-ups to enterprises.

With over 30 years’ experience in helping our valued clients to work smarter, we find tailored business solutions to business challenges. We are the partner of choice for some of the biggest names in public, private and not-for-profit organisations. Many of our customers have been with us for over 20 years – a fact that we are really proud of and is testament to our understanding of their needs and our focus on building a healthy long-term relationships that stands the test of time.

We are forward-thinking and driven, encouraged by our core values which are honesty, trust, commitment, and respect for our clients and the sectors that they work in. By working collaboratively and effectively, we strive to deliver the highest quality of service. We spend time understanding the business goals and find the right solutions to match individual requirements. Every organisation is unique and we respect that.

Corporate Partners

Parker Bullen LLP

Karen Clarkson

37 The Hundred, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 8GE www.parkerbullen.com

01794 328688

Parker Bullen is a well-established and respected firm that has been providing legal services for over 200 years. With offices in Andover, Romsey, Salisbury and Witney, we take pride in offering businesses, charities, individuals, families and those serving in the Armed Forces first-class advice.

The need to approach a law firm will arise for a variety of reasons; whether that is for your business, for your family or for your property.

No matter the reason, we know that you will be looking for a proactive, prompt and efficient team who will tailor their advice to your situation. Our reputation has been built on providing exactly this service. We will take the time to understand the unique needs and goals of each client and work closely with them to achieve the best possible outcome. Our clients recognise our ability to navigate complex legal issues and find creative solutions to difficult problems.

For our commercial clients, we can advise on a variety of legal queries, ranging from buying or selling your business, mergers & acquisitions, shareholders agreements, commercial contracts, employment law, commercial property and dispute resolution. For our private clients, our expertise ranges from residential property, family law, wills, trusts & probate, immigration and litigation.

Membership is open to businesses of all sizes and from all sectors with packages starting from as little as £2.30 per week.

Advantage Members

The CFO Centre

Paul Reid

Barbury Close, Stonehill Green, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7HB

www.cfocentre.com/gb

The CFO Centre is the world's number one provider of part-time Chief Financial Officers to SMEs with over 450 CFOs operating out of 70+ offices across five continents and managing a combined turnover of £5bn.

Ambitious £2m-£50m turnover companies have one of the country’s top Finance Directors working at their business but uniquely, on a parttime basis. Saving businesses time hiring, while being able to leverage the skills of a senior parttime FD for a fraction of the cost!

In addition to our UK team, we also have offices in Australia, South Africa, Canada, Singapore, Netherlands.

Essential Members

Roke Manor Research Limited

Cris Sands

Old Salisbury Lane, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 0ZN

www.roke.co.uk

01794 833000

Roke is a leading UK innovator in science and engineering. For over 60 years we’ve been improving the world through innovation by combining the physical and digital in new ways. We create technologies and products to solve real world technical challenges and help deliver critical missions for our customers.

IMIS Global Limited

Trevor Evans

Barnes Wallis House, 25 Barnes Wallis Road, Segensworth East, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 5TT

www.imisglobal.com

01489 883343

MariWeb, the world leading Maritime Information System of IMIS Global. System reliability approaching 99.999%, lightning responses and a huge range of features are why national authorities, ports and other maritime organisations around the globe place their trust in MariWeb.

Charity Members

Maggie's Southampton

William Ham

University Hospital Southampton, 101-103 Tremona Road, Southampton, Hampshire SO16 6HT

www.maggies.org

02382 124545

Maggie’s is a cancer care charity on the site of the University Hospital Southampton offering psychological, physical and emotional support to any person whose life has been affected by cancer. We work with local companies seeking mutually beneficial charity partnerships.

JOINTHE CHAMBER

The Chamber provides a range of quality services and benefits supporting your business to grow successfully.

Membership is open to businesses of all sizes and from all sectors with packages starting from as little as £2.30 per week.

Winkworth Machinery Ltd

Richard Gale

Mixer House, Stroudley Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 8FW

www.mixer.co.uk

01256 305600

Since 1924, Winkworth Machinery, the leading industrial mixer manufacturer in the UK, has been designing and manufacturing world-class mixers and blenders for mixing doughs, powders, creams, batters, pastes, sludges, slurries, and granules for all industries and supplying them worldwide.

Just call us on 01329 242420 or 01256 338477, or email membership@hampshirecham ber.co.uk

Basic/Digital Members

Boehringer Ingelheim

Payge Aitchison

Ellisfield Avenue, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 8YS

www.boehringer-ingelheim.co.uk

01344 741201

Animal Feedstuffs, Pharmaceutical Vaccines & Biopharma Products, Polyurethane Manufacturers & Equipment

Drew Smith

Rachel Darke

7-9 Mill Court, The Sawmills, Durley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO32 2EJ 01489 861400

Blue Link Worldwide

Frank Levene

10 London Rd, Liphook GU30 7AN

blue-link-worldwide.com

01428 723444

Business Development Consultants, Business Management Consultants, International Financial Consultants

Magennis Jewellery

Sylvie Magennis

Gosport, Hampshire

www.magennisjewellery.com

0800 1934541

Hand Made Accessories, Jewellery, Silversmiths

Stephen Oke Creative

Stephen Oke

Hampshire

www.stephenoke.co.uk

03333 208735

Digital Marketing, Web Design/Social Media, Website Designers