inbusiness Northants April May 22

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inbusiness @NorthantsCoC

www.northants-chamber.co.uk

THE VOICE OF NORTHAMPTONSHIRE BUSINESS

APRIL/MAY 2022

CELEBRATING 12 MONTHS AT THE HELM NORTH NORTHAMPTONSHIRE COUNCIL’S FIRST YEAR IN BUSINESS NEWS: MILESTONE FOR DEPUTY CEO SPOTLIGHT: CHARITIES, SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & FUNDRAISING THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF NORTHAMPTONSHIRE CHAMBER

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INBUSINESS

CONTENTS inbusiness

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APRIL/MAY 2022

BUSINESS REPORT

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Viewpoint: A message of thanks from the Chamber

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Telecoms firm extends cricket partnership

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Opening the door to green initiatives

Brand expert creates luxury store Upgrade for fibre broadband New appointments at Next Generation Architects work on garden centre designs Anniversary for promotional products manufacturer

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Chamber Business Partners: 123 Internet Group Leading law firm welcomes director Funding supports theatre heritage project Milestone for Chamber’s deputy CEO Understanding the basics of sales skills The importance of branding

GOING GLOBAL 23

Logistics provider set for expansion

ISSUE SPOTLIGHT 24

CHARITIES, SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & FUNDRAISING

26

HOTELS, CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Help needed for charity projects Conference centre held Chamber expo

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COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING Consultancy named Agency of the Year

TALKING BUSINESS 32

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Cllr Jason Smithers, leader of North Northamptonshire Council

TRAINING & EVENTS 34

The latest comprehensive list of Chamber training courses and events

MEMBER ZONE 36 39 40 41 42

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Employment law training packages Redesign for online forum Member Profile: Paul Riley, Twenty10 Digital Limited Next Generation, plus member benefits The Chamber welcomes new members

The June/July 2022 issue of inbusiness will include features on: Technology & Innovation, Education & Training and Creative Industries.

The deadline for editorial submissions is: 5 April

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INBUSINESS

inbusiness

THE VOICE OF NORTHAMPTONSHIRE BUSINESS

CONTACT DETAILS

VIEWPOINT

T: 01604 490490 NORTHAMPTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Waterside House, 8 Waterside Way, Northampton NN4 7XD Editorial process managed by Ballyhoo PR EDITOR: Catherine Bontoft EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Katie Macdonald NEWS AND ARTICLES SHOULD BE SENT TO: inbusiness@northants-chamber.co.uk

PUBLISHED BY: Kemps Publishing Ltd Unit 8, The Courtyard, 707 Warwick Road, Solihull B91 3DA T: 0121 765 4144 W: www.kempspublishing.co.uk MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Blake DESIGNER: Lloyd Hollingworth ADVERTISING T: 0121 765 4144 E: jon.jones@kempspublishing.co.uk PRINTERS: Stephens & George Print Group FRONT COVER: North Northamptonshire Council leader Cllr Jason Smithers See pages 32-33 COVER PHOTO: Jane Russell Photography ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE: inbusiness is a bi-monthly publication and digital magazine distributed to 6,000 Chamber members and key businesses in Northamptonshire.

The publication focuses on news and information about local companies and the initiatives and advice available to increase the prosperity of county firms. Northamptonshire Chamber welcomes newsworthy articles of business interest, giving preference to Chamber members. As editorial space is limited, inclusion cannot be guaranteed and the editor may amend or reject articles submitted.

FOLLOW NORTHAMPTONSHIRE CHAMBER AT:

A MESSAGE OF THANKS FROM THE CHAMBER We’ve had such an incredible start to 2022 that it’s only fair I start this Viewpoint with several heartfelt thank yous.

Firstly, I want to thank everyone who attended our first Business Exhibition of the year at Kettering Conference & Leisure Village. This was the second face-to-face exhibition we’ve run since the onset of the pandemic and it showed how important live events are to our businesses.

We’re proud of the virtual events we now offer but it really was wonderful to see so many vibrant businesses networking, forging new relationships and reinforcing existing ones at our exhibition.

I’d also like to thank everyone who filled in our latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES). At a local level we use this information when we’re talking with county decision makers about ways to improve trading conditions for businesses here. By filling in the QES you also show how active our business community is which helps us to attract leading experts to share their insights and advice with members. Indeed, only recently we welcomed a representative from the Bank of England to one of our PolicyHour sessions to talk to members about interest rates, inflation and the economy.

We also share information from our QES with our colleagues at the British Chambers of Commerce to strengthen their voice when they’re lobbying on behalf of British businesses at a national level. It only takes two minutes to fill in the QES so I’d urge all members to fill in the next survey when it is live between 16 May and 9 June.

I’d also like to thank several key members of our platform for young entrepreneurs, the Next Generation Chamber.

A big thank you goes to outgoing president Hannah Brady and outgoing vice president Conor Slasberg, who was Next Generation Chamber’s first president and hosted the inaugural Next Generation Business Awards. Hannah and Conor have been incredibly hard-working committee members and we’re grateful for the dedication they’ve shown to the organisation. I’d also like to thank Nina Gandy, Imran Ilias and Jamie Cochrane for recently becoming new Next Generation Chamber’s committee members. We know they’ll be fantastic in their new roles and we’re looking forward to working with them.

Finally, I’d like to thank our Chamber team for everything they do for our members and most especially for all the hard work they’re currently doing behind the scenes in preparation for the 2022 Northamptonshire Business Awards.

It’s with great excitement I can confirm this year’s awards will open for entries in May. So, if you want to show off how proud you are of your organisation and its fantastic services and products – or perhaps you want your staff to know how grateful you are to them – make sure you enter via our website this year.

Louise Wall www.facebook.com/northamptonshire.chamber

Interim chief executive, Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce

@NorthantsCoC www.linkedin.com/company/northamptonshirechamber-of-commerce www.youtube.com/NorthantsChamber You can also follow our International Trade Team on Twitter: @NhntChambExport For further information on Northamptonshire Chamber call 01604 490490 or visit www.northants-chamber.co.uk inbusiness is produced on behalf of Northamptonshire Chamber by Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed without charge to all Chamber members and other leading businesses in Northamptonshire. The Chamber and the publisher are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. However, views expressed in the magazine are independent and while every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, neither Northamptonshire Chamber nor the publisher can accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise.

PRIVACY NOTICE: Kemps Publishing Ltd process personal information for certain legitimate interest purposes, which includes the following: • To provide postal copies of this publication to Chamber members and Kemps' customers; and • To offer marketing and promotional opportunities within this publication to Chamber members and prospects.

Whenever we process data for these purposes, we always ensure we treat your Personal Data rights in high regard. If you wish to, you can visit www.kempspublishing.co.uk to view our full Privacy Notice and to learn more about our legitimate interests and your rights in this regard.

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CHAMBER BUSINESS PARTNERS

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POLICY MATTERS

BUSINESS REPORT

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE CHAMBER keeps its members up to date with all the latest business news. Whether it’s through the pages of this magazine, via our website or by regular email updates, we will always endeavour to keep you in the picture and informed

PARTNERSHIP BOWLS OVER DBFB Northamptonshire-based telecommunications company dbfb have extended and broadened their partnership with Northamptonshire County Cricket Club.

They have been the Player Pathway Partner for several years and have made another fouryear commitment to supporting the club.

Further to this, dbfb have also expanded their relationship to become the Official Partner of the Player Pathway and Academy.

Simon Pickering, managing director of dbfb,

said: “We are extremely pleased to be expanding our relationship with the club, allowing us to support all Northamptonshire Academy and Pathway players. It is very important for us to support local sports clubs, and there is no better opportunity than to be the Official Partner to the Pathway and Academy at Northamptonshire.”

As well as sponsoring the next generation of Northamptonshire Cricket talent, dbfb will also become the club’s telecommunications

provider, installing a new lease line and phone system at The County Ground.

Daniel Vernon, commercial manager at Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, added: “It is great to see dbfb expand their partnership with us, lending their support to the Pathway and Academy players, as well as helping the club with our telecommunications.”

Visit: www.dbfb.co.uk Email: discover@dbfb.co.uk

‘IT IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR US TO SUPPORT LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS’

Simon Pickering with members of the Northamptonshire Player Pathway Programme

BUSINESS TIMES REVEAL NEW-LOOK WEBSITE A new-look website bringing all the latest business news across Northamptonshire is being launched by Business Times, the county’s longest-established and most respected business newspaper. www.business-times.co.uk is now live and has been months in the making as Business Times’ new owners Pulse Group Media carefully researched exactly what its readers and advertisers wanted the site to deliver, alongside designers and digital marketing specialists Square Media.

The result is a site that is easy to navigate and contains all the information, news, comment and marketing opportunities for Northamptonshire’s business community.

“This is a real game-changer and a crucial part of our growth strategy for Business Times and its sister titles Business MK and the NN Pulse and MK Pulse magazines,” says Pulse Group media director Martin Lewis-Stevenson.

“We are absolutely delighted with how the site looks, feels and works.” www.business-times.co.uk covers the latest Northamptonshire business

news every day, with more news than anywhere else, and contains a comprehensive archive of previous content still available where visitors can access the expertise of professionals across the county.

Martin praised the work of Square Media in developing the new site.

“Square Media carried out surveys to determine how best to build a bespoke website that is tailored absolutely to our customers. They have been great people to work with, very responsive and reassuring throughout the process.”

Work is also under way to enhance the website of Business Times’ sister title Business MK. Square Media commercial manager Steve Rees said: “We look forward to helping Pulse Group Media provide an integrated marketing solution for their clients to include print, website, email and social media.”

Call: 03303 800 630 APRIL/MAY 2022 inbusiness 5

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BUSINESS REPORT

Flannels’ new flagship store and beauty hall at Leicester’s Fosse Park

EB DESIGNS CREATE NEW STORE A multi-national business with a l arge and prestigious client and brands portfolio has completed an exciting project with one of the UK’s leading contemporary fashion retailers.

EB Designs is known as ‘the brand behind the brands’ and works worldwide with businesses in the retail, commercial and hospitality sectors to help them achieve their concepts and visions.

It recently helped luxury retailer Flannels to open its new regional flagship store and beauty hall at Leicester’s Fosse Park.

Operations director Joe Giammalva said: “We were thrilled Flannels chose to work with us as their stores are known for being beautifully designed to create the perfect environment to showcase the best in designer products.

WORKSHOP FOR SMALL FIRMS Local IT provider ACS Office Solutions will host a cyber security workshop in June to help protect small businesses.

The event, on Wednesday 29 June at 10am at the University of Northampton will see ACS clarify how and why you should choose the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) and protect your business against the ever-evolving threats to cyber security.

With keynote “Tech Talk” speakers and an open panel discussion to address any attendee concerns and questions, the experts will explain why you should perform regular IT audits, the importance of security validation and how to create an IT strategy and develop a roadmap to implementation. Lunch is provided and an opportunity to discuss your circumstances with an ACS consultant.

Register at www.acs365.co.uk

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“We provided them with a full turn-key to businesses. It operates in 60 countries, solution - taking the space from a working with more 70 recognised brands clean box to a fitted unit featuring and has developed partnerships with two floors of retail space for over 50 international suppliers. men, women and children with Joe said: “Our team has extensive ‘WE WERE beauty and a food and knowledge and experience in beverage offering on the consolidating, controlling, and THRILLED ground floor. communicating costs in a timely FLANNELS CHOSE “We also helped them manner to meet the brief, maintain TO WORK create innovative key areas, programmes and manage WITH US’ including a beauty bar and expectations. We continually beauty pods featuring manage costs, capex budgets, interactive mirrors for instore offering real time reporting and social channels.” reconcile and approve final accounts.”

EB Designs has more than 20 years of experience of providing cost effective solutions Visit: www.ebdesignsgroup.com

YLO EXPANDS AS DEMAND FOR ITS SERVICE GROWS An organisation which provides businesses across the country with telecoms, EV and energy solutions is expanding. ylo has been in the telecoms industry for two years and in the past few months has also moved into the growing market of electric vehicle charging.

As a result, the company has opened a new office in Northampton and taken on more staff to cope with the demand for its services.

Director Lee Wallis said: “The electric vehicle charging industry has such massive potential and is an area of huge importance to businesses and consumers alike, especially with the Government targets of stopping all diesel and petrol car sales by 2030.

“This has accelerated our growth and has resulted in us taking on new staff and opening a new office.

“We’ve also had a small rebrand, changing from yloTelecom to simply ylo to reflect our move into the EV market. The brand relaunch is being backed by an extensive

ylo staff

marketing campaign across Northamptonshire this spring.” ylo also provides access to superfast broadband, WiFI solutions,

mobile devices and SIM only contracts for businesses of all sizes.

Visit: www.weareylo.com

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#THEIMPORTANCEOFIMAGE

BUSINESS REPORT

• Press Release Content

• Editorial Images

• Product & Architectural

• Unique Web Content

• Advertising & Commercial • Headshots • Events & Launches

• Branding Imaging

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BUSINESS REPORT

UPGRADE FOR FIBRE BROADBAND Gbit/s speeds for both upload and download.

Glide Group, a market leader in ultra-fast broadband Glide is one of the few ISPs physically laying fibre connectivity and deploying fibre infrastructure, is end-to-end all the way from its own local upgrading its award-winning fibre infrastructure in infrastructure and roadside green cabinets, across Coventry, Leicester, Nottingham and Birmingham. its own national core network to the internet. As a The firm is also introducing its new range of Glide result of its acquisition of Concept Solutions Gigabit full-fibre broadband services offering People in May, Glide has been able to symmetric 10 Gbit/s speeds with low latency, ideal accelerate its fibre build in strategic for supporting cloud-based business locations. applications.

Tim Pilcher, CEO of Glide Group For businesses, gigabit fibre broadband means greater speed and commented: “Glide’s business ‘EVERY METRE productivity. Reliable, ultrafast started out in Coventry and our OF FIBRE THAT broadband aligns with the agile rollout of 10 Gbit/s capable infrastructure will provide local working patterns now becoming GLIDE LAYS IS businesses with award-winning fibre commonplace. Cloud-based GIGABITthat offers fast and reliable workspaces and collaboration tools CAPABLE’ connectivity. SME businesses allow employees to work seamlessly took a hit from the whether in the office or at home. pandemic and with the Glide has challenged convention to growing need for robust transform over 5,000 businesses across the cloud-based business UK by bringing full-fibre broadband directly to applications, it is our priority to business parks underserved by larger internet service equip the Midland’s business providers (ISPs). community with the best fibre Every metre of fibre that Glide lays is gigabitconnectivity possible.” capable. Entry-level services are FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) broadband with the latest generation WiFi6 Visit: www.glidebusiness.co.uk routers. Leased lines are available to suit any business /business requirement. All Glide Gigabit services offer up to 10

Tim Pilcher

CORTEXA NAMED TOTARA TOP SELLER

HOTEL PLEDGES TO SUPPORT NET-ZERO Victorian country house hotel Sedgebrook Hall, based in Northamptonshire, is a part of Lime Venue Portfolio’s exciting new initiative Meetings For Change.

Lime Venue Portfolio has launched an initiative to help achieve a climate promise made by parent company, Compass Group UK & Ireland, to reach net-zero by 2030.

It means that when booking with Sedgebrook Hall, part of The Venues Collection, your package - as standard - will include some key pledges.

Firstly, they pledge to use fresh seasonal products and aim for 80% of ingredients on their menus to be British grown.

Secondly, they will offer a plant-forward menu that can have positive effects on the health of your delegates and the planet.

Thirdly, they will aim for your event to produce zero waste by using recycled and reusable packaging wherever possible and utilising a root to stem approach when cooking for an event.

Fourthly, they will ensure ethical sourcing of food and supplies for your event, which all helps achieve their bigger mission to reach net zero by 2030.

Sedgebrook Hall’s Lizzie Harwood said: “It is good practice to choose your venues and partners well, and by choosing a venue within this initiative, you are making a good choice that can make a positive difference to your delegates and the planet.”

Email: sedgebrook.enquiries@thevenuescollection.co.uk

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Northamptonshire-based Cortexa has been named Totara’s 2021 UK Top Seller.

The Totara Partner Awards recognise the best-performing sellers across the global Totara Partner network, with a special focus this year on the new Totara Talent Experience Platform (TXP).

Cortexa became a Totara Partner in 2017 and their Totara customers include The Builders Merchants Foundation, Glen Dimplex Heating & Ventilation and Hampshire County Council.

Cortexa managing director Mark Parrish said: “I am delighted to see our team’s hard work being rewarded in this way and that we’ve reached Platinum Partner status.

“We’ve always been confident in our supply chain extended enterprise offer but this, coupled with our recent successes, will help our drive into new sectors.”

Totara CEO Richard Wyles added: “Congratulations to the whole Cortexa team for their success within the UK. They have harnessed the power and versatility of the Totara platform to deliver truly outstanding learning and talent development experiences for the customers. Together, we can look forward to continued growth in the year ahead.”

Totara Gold Partner Cortexa has

been developing and delivering elearning and LMS solutions since 2002. Successful implementations range from conventional enterprise systems for 20,000 learners to multitenancy solutions for trade associations and educational bodies.

They are also an Approved Centre for the delivery of online NVQs and offer a library of courses, covering topics such as compliance, sales, management, personal development, security and health and safety, that can be offered off the shelf or tailored to the unique requirements of each organisation.

Visit: www.cortexa.co.uk

Mark Parrish

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BUSINESS REPORT

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BUSINESS REPORT ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

RECRUITING HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS FROM OVERSEAS - INTRODUCTION TO THE PROCESS OF SPONSORSHIP Article by Danica Luces (pictured) As of August 2021, vacancies in the care sector have returned to pre-pandemic levels. Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic have made it extremely difficult for organisations to retain their nurses and care staff on a long-term basis.

It caused a knock-on effect, reducing the number of available beds in NHS hospitals because of the increased number of hospital patients unable to be discharged to care homes due to the lack of care workers.

To relieve the shortage of nurses and care workers in the UK, health and care organisations have the option to apply for a Worker sponsor licence to fill their vacancies with overseas staff under the Health and Care Worker route. To be eligible to apply, the employer must be an approved and registered UK health and care sector organisation providing adult social care.

The salary requirement for sponsored nurses and care workers, with the minimum being the higher of £25,600 per year.

The application process The application process for a Worker sponsor licence does not allow room for error. The nonrefundable Home Office application fee is £536 for small organisations and £1,476 for mediumto- large businesses. A flawed or incomplete sponsor licence application may still be approved. Still, it could result in the licence with a B-rating instead of an A-rating, which prevents an organisation from applying for a Certificate of Sponsorship for overseas workers.

Eligibility To be eligible, as an employer, one cannot have unspent criminal convictions for immigration offences or certain other crimes, such as fraud or money laundering, or had a sponsor licence revoked in the last 12 months. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will review the company

Caring for a patient in the UK

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An overseas professional in the UK

application form and supporting documents.

They may visit the business to ensure it is trustworthy and capable of carrying out its duties.

The Skilled Worker route includes the health and care visa, which applies to qualified doctors, nurses and allied professionals working in either health or social care.

The Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) cap has been suspended, which means there will be no limit to the number of eligible skilled workers wishing to come to the UK unless this is reinstated.

Fast tracking Applications are fast-tracked by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), and the aim is to process them within three weeks, providing biometric

information has been made available. The CoS may be granted within one working day. Once the CoS is awarded, it must be assigned to an individual within three months, or it will expire, and the process would need to be completed again.

As an employer, the organisation must assign a certificate of Sponsorship to each foreign worker its employs. It is an electronic record (SMS system) and not a physical document.

Each certificate has a number, which a recruit may use to apply for a visa. When a company assigns the certificate to a worker, they must apply for their visa within three months.

Necessary training All overseas healthcare workers must go through the necessary training. For example, nurses must successfully take exams in CBT, OSCE and OET within eight months after arrival. The requirement is in accordance with the NMC regulation, allowing them to obtain their PIN as registered nurses in the UK. Organisations such as QAQF specialise in such training and help organisations speed up the process to under three months.

Danica Luches is the Nova Horizon Group Ltd. compliance officer. During the last few years, Nova Horizon supported UK companies finding, moving, and deploying hundreds of professionals from Africa and Asia. It offers help in the Sponsorship license application, candidate selection, legal support and training for overseas recruits.

Consider recruiting from abroad?

Contact Danica Luches at info@novahorizongroup.com

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BUSINESS REPORT

Nina Gandy

Imran Ilias

Jamie Cochrane

NEW FACES AT NEXT GENERATION An organisation which supports more than 100 young entrepreneurs from across Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes has made three exciting new appointments.

Next Generation Chamber was created in 2017

by Northamptonshire Chamber and Milton Keynes Chamber to help businesses support and nurture staff who are dedicated to advancing their careers.

Throughout the pandemic it has continued to provide vital personal development sessions and social opportunities to its members and has now welcomed Nina Gandy, Jamie Cochrane and Imran Ilias to its committee to help drive the organisation forward.

Cynthia Spencer Hospice corporate partnerships fundraiser Nina Gandy, 31, has been a member since 2019.

She said: “Next Generation Chamber encourages development and helps individuals to thrive, to share stories, ideas, passions and to be the best they can be.

“I want to understand what members need

from Next Generation Chamber and encourage new members to join.”

Imran Ilias, 25, joined the organisation last year and is a commercial litigation paralegal and future trainee solicitor at Wilson Browne Solicitors.

He said: “I really like the mix of people who attend Next Generation Chamber events - the future leaders of the county. I wanted to join the committee to create an impact by planning and promoting the events. I want to encourage more professionals of similar backgrounds to get involved.”

PBC Business Recovery & Insolvency associate Jamie Cochrane, 33, added: “I joined Next Generation Chamber shortly before the pandemic. I’ve seen the good work it does in terms of helping people with their continuing professional development and I’m keen to drive that forward.”

President Hannah Brady was thrilled to welcome the new committee members and said a heartfelt thank you to outgoing vice president

Connor Slasberg, who was the organisation’s first president and hosted its inaugural Next Generation Business Awards.

Hannah said: “It's brilliant to see Nina, Jamie and Imran joining the committee. I'm really looking forward to working together this year to strengthen Next Gen. “I’d also like to thank Connor for his support and passion for Next Gen since it launched."

To find out more about the benefits of joining Next Generation Chamber visit www.nextgenerationchamber.co.uk or call 01604 490490.

A ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR COMPLIANCE Daventry-based Ensafe Consultants has launched an end-to-end environmental solution providing a one-stop-shop of environmental and compliance solutions.

To deliver the new offering, Ensafe has been busy recruiting a five-strong leadership team with over 90-years’ experience across asbestos, geo-technical and ecology, air quality and acoustics and health and safety.

Louise Massey specialises in asbestos and building surveys and Brad Hall has a wealth of experience in geo-environmental and ground remediation. Steven Sheridan and Matt O’Neill secure

planning consent and provide Environmental Impact Assessments for clients through acoustic and air quality assessments. Finally, Mark Lewis comes to Ensafe with a Master’s degree in Safety, Health and Environmental Management.

Ensafe have been helping construction, infrastructure and retail clients stay compliant with their environmental solutions since 1995. Clients include Tesco, Shell, Home Group plus a number of infrastructure contractors, a strong and loyal blue chip client base that Ensafe help stay compliant, secure planning and

Steven Sheridan, Brad Hall, Greg Kirkman and Mark Lewis

ensure employees are as safe as they can be.

Ensafe is also a Waste Wise Kids investing member, showing commitment to the education of children, particularly in Northamptonshire and Bedford.

Greg Kirkman, Ensafe’s Group

CEO, said: “It’s great to be able to help the next generation understand environmental best practice in construction and retail.

Partnering with Waste Wise Kids is the perfect pairing for Ensafe.”

Visit: ensafe.co.uk

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BUSINESS REPORT

Artist’s impression of how the garden centre will look

RELOCATION OF GARDEN CENTRE Kettering-based architects, GSSArchitecture, wheelchair users or persons with limited are delighted to be working on the designs mobility. for the relocation and expansion of Partner Tom Jagger said: “We’re excited to see this scheme come to Bosworth’s Garden Centre, with a life in the near future which will planning application being ‘WE’VE allow this local family run submitted at the end of INCORPORATED business to provide an improved January.

NUMEROUS service whilst building on its The new site, which will be SUSTAINABLE fantastic reputation in the area. located off the A6 near “To keep within the context Irthlingborough, will have the FEATURES of the current site, several capacity to hold 400 customers WITHIN THE landscaped areas have been at peak times and 50 staff DEVELOPMENT’ incorporated, including a garden members, allowing for new job display area immediately to the east opportunities in the community. of the building; landscaping to the The location has great transport links perimeter will provide a buffer around the to surrounding local areas and will be easily site; and the main entrance and car park will be accessible for guests with ramped areas for

landscaped with trees and swales.

“Guided by the expertise of our in-house Sustainability Working Group, we’ve incorporated numerous sustainable features within the development, including the reuse of rainwater, underfloor heating to provide a renewable source of heating for the building and a wildlife corridor which will encourage biodiversity of the site.

“There will also be a nursery space that will allow for more plants to be grown using polytunnels and other outdoor space.”

The centre will include a raised terrace café with external seating, meaning customers will have an improved visitor experience.

Visit: www.gssarchitecture.com

FOUNDATION SET TO OPEN NEW HUB Northampton Saints Foundation is a charity based at Northampton Saints Rugby Football Club, offering Education and Social Inclusion programmes to support young people aged nine to 19.

Established in late 2017 the Foundation has grown over the past five years, from one hub at Franklin’s Gardens, to now having five hubs, delivering various support programmes across Northamptonshire, Milton Keynes and Ipswich. In 2020-21, the Foundation supported almost 6,000 young people.

In September, the Foundation are looking to open their next hub in the north of the county, possibly Kettering or Corby.

This will be a base for their Engage programme, supporting around 50 young children each year, who have been, or are risk of being, excluded from mainstream education.

Fundraising, grants and events officer Sue Wright said: “Many of these students have experienced trauma or come from disadvantaged backgrounds leading to social, environmental, mental health and behavioural issues.

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“We’re currently searching for local businesses who might be interested in supporting the opening of this new hub by providing reduced cost, or free access to sporting and creative activities.

We’re also looking for companies who would like to join our Founder15 or Sponsor a Student programmes, providing financial support to the work of the Foundation.”

Further information about these schemes can be found at www.northamptonsaintsfoundatio n.org/support-us Email: sue.wright@northamptonsaints foundation.org Call: 07483 078363

ELLIEVISION GETS READY FOR JUBILEE Innovative AV experts Ellievision have been inundated with outdoor screen bookings for the upcoming Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Despite the official celebrations not taking place until June, Ellievision, who are based in Woburn Sands, have been taking bookings for our outdoor screens as town councils and parish councils prepare for festivities.

Ellievision’s Heather Irving said: “Since Covid we have seen the demand for outdoor screens rise and we continue to invest in this area.

“People still want to get together at events and we have been working with clients to find ways to bring live events back in a safe way. Our focus is very firmly on our outdoor LED screens and bringing communities together.

“This year is all about the Platinum Jubilee and events are back!

What a great way to spend the summer.”

Visit: www.ellievisionav.co.uk

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BUSINESS REPORT

GILT EDGED PROMOTIONS REACHES MAJOR MILESTONE The business celebrated their anniversary with a Gilt Edged Promotions celebrated their 35th lunch for staff, including a special cake featuring their anniversary at the end of last year. logo. This marked the first occasion that the whole Established in 1986, the company has grown team was back in one place again after nearly from humble beginnings in a home garage to two years due to the pandemic. where they are today – a 37,500 square Sales director Natalie Eichmann foot office and factory space in Moulton explained: “The last two years have Park, Northampton.

‘WE WORK brought many challenges and we’re From starting out as a diary company, TIRELESSLY TO proud of how our team have faced they now offer an extensive selection of PROVIDE HIGH issues head on. Our industry hasn’t promotional products, including gifts, had it easy, with material shortages clothing and their own range of diaries, QUALITY, GREAT and delivery delays having a huge notebooks and calendars.

SERVICE’ impact. We’ve adapted to overcome Managing director Jonathan Cook these challenges and pride ourselves on said: “We’re delighted to have celebrated what we’ve achieved. We’d like to say a big 35 years of Gilt Edged. We work tirelessly thank you to all our team for their hard work to provide high quality, great service, and now and throughout the last 35 years.” creative inspiration to all our customers. We’re proud to have done this for 35 years now and are Visit www.giltedged.co.uk excited for what lies ahead for Gilt Edged.”

SCCYC OPENS NEW CENTRE A recipient of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is delighted to be offering its newly built centre for training, business and enterprise activities.

SCCYC provides quality services to local communities in Northamptonshire and runs a multifunctional hub called the Waterside-Connect Centre in the heart of Northampton’s Enterprise Zone.

The centre has rooms available to hire for conferences, meetings, events and exhibitions and the profits it generates are put into supporting social impact services for Northampton’s most vulnerable people.

Trustee Amarjit Singh Atwal said: “Our award-winning centre in James Mill Road is a fantastic venue for a wide range of events.

“Visitors can take advantage of the latest digital technology onsite as well as free parking and free WiFi.” Call: 07770 088568 Visit: sccyc.co.uk

“WE CLEAN, WE SELL, WE HIRE AND WE PROVIDE A SPECIALIST SERVICE THAT GOES BEYOND 100%.”

T: 07594 886530 E: grant@gpcgroup.co.uk

Grant Phillips

Managing Director

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OPENING THE DOOR TO GREEN INITIATIVES A Northamptonshire firm which specialises in PVC-U recycling has inspired a major window and door manufacturer to drive forward with more green initiatives.

When Gavin Smith became managing director of Scotia Windows and Doors in 2021, one of the earliest decisions he took was to revise the company’s arrangements for dealing with waste PVC-U. Gavin turned to Wellingboroughbased VEKA Recycling Ltd, one of the UK’s only companies able to collect and fully re-process new PVC-U profile offcuts and old frames, in-house.

Since last May, VEKA Recycling has been supplying at least one articulated vehicle weekly to collect the material, which is pre-sorted into special bins provided by VEKA Recycling. Additionally, to

streamline all of Scotia’s profile recycling needs, VEKA Recycling now also removes scrap aluminium for re-processing.

Gavin explained: “When VEKA Recycling was introduced to me I was impressed that the company would collect all of our material and ‘VEKA that it then processed everything in its own RECYCLING NOW advanced recycling ALSO REMOVES plant and according SCRAP ALUMINIUM VEKA Recycling is helping major window to an audited trail. and door manufacturer to be greener FOR REWe were further PROCESSING’ impressed to learn our material would be who include some of carbon footprint in many other turned into new products the country’s biggest ways, both to satisfy our own and even new window housebuilders. commitment to the environment, profiles, within days of leaving our “It’s fair to say the VEKA and also as more of our customers, yard.

Recycling service has now inspired and their customers, demand it.”

“All of that was important to us us to embark upon a programme of as a company and the commitment measures that will reduce our Visit: veka-recycling.co.uk that we make to our customers,

The team at The Brady Creative

NEW APPOINTMENTS JOIN THE BRADY BUNCH An exciting marketing and branding agency is growing as it approaches its second anniversary.

The Brady Creative, which is run by dynamic mother and daughter team Helen and Hannah Brady, has recently welcomed two new members of the team - Paul Gordon and Delia Tazlaoanu – as well as three more freelancers.

The firm has also started working with half a dozen new clients.

Hannah said: “Businesses have taken time to really reflect on their place in the market over the last couple of years and we are certainly having more conversations on this.

“People can now see that ad-hoc, scatter gun content isn’t bringing in results. It’s time to switch things up.

“We are working closely with a lot of our clients to increase the consistent quality of content across their social channels.

“The appetite for giving free advice away is also increasing as people see how much trust it builds with their audience.

“Personal branding is another hot topic right now. More of the conversations we are having are centred around raising the profiles of individuals within businesses, as well as the overall company brand.”

Visit: www.thebradycreative.co.uk

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Seeking ISO accreditation can make your company’s future brighter

THE BENEFITS THAT ISO CERTIFICATION BRING The world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company SGS says seeking ISO certification can bring many unexpected benefits to a company.

Organisations take the decision to seek certification to ISO 9001:2015 for a variety of reasons. They may want to hold the official, globally recognized stamp of quality to help win new business and retain existing customers.

They may wish to avoid the time and resource-consuming process of individual audits.

They might have identified the need to improve processes and efficiency. Or it could be to instil a quality culture throughout the organisation.

SGS United Kingdom Ltd business manager Heather Crick said: “Frequently, we find that clients who have gained certification benefit in ways that they hadn’t necessarily anticipated when they embarked on their ISO 9001 journey.

“Sometimes, one of these is increased quality of the very products and services they provide.

But start reading through the standard itself and it will soon become clear that this is actually one of the key intended outcomes. And what organisation wouldn’t find the consequential benefits very attractive: uplifts in revenue, customer retention, reputation and new business?

“One of the specifics of ISO 9001:2015 was the application of risk-based thinking, in other words viewing risk as opportunity. When opportunity is combined with forward thinking, the sky’s the limit.”

If considering certification to ISO 9001, consider your objectives for doing so, then approach a specialist like SGS United Kingdom Ltd about an audit and complementary services.

Visit: www.sgs.co.uk/iso9001

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CHAMBER BUSINESS PARTNERS

BUSINESS PARTNERS

Chamber Business Partners are an exclusive group of influential companies from within the Northamptonshire Chamber membership. There are three levels of membership – Silver, Gold and Platinum

123 INTERNET GROUP BRINGS BACK DIGITAL CONFERENCE Award-wining digital marketing agency 123 Internet Group is proud to be bringing back an industryleading conference to give local businesses the chance to learn about the impact of digital transformation.

The Milton Keynes based agency’s fourth annual MK Digital Summit will be held on Wednesday, 18 May, at the world-famous Red Bull Racing MK7 Venue in Tilbrook.

The summit is the area’s biggest digital marketing and technology conference and will feature insights from some of the most impressive names in the industry.

This year’s theme is digital transformation and digital

also take to the stage to talk about marketing and delegates will building brands. discover how to push their business Other keynote speakers will to the forefront of digital marketing include the CEO of event sponsors with help from people like Bernard Triangle Networks, Paul Anslow, Marr who is one of the world’s who will reveal how businesses can most successful social media influencers at the intersection of use innovation to enhance business and technology. customer relationships.

Jennie Jahina, a partner at fellow Bernard is recognised as the event sponsor Wilson Browne UK’s top LinkedIn Influencer and Solicitors, will explain why has more than two million followers employment contracts may need to on his social platforms. change in response to the hybrid Social media management and flexible working revolution. specialists Sprout Social, of Cyber broker Nathan which 123 Internet Hankin, of AON, will help Group are one of the businesses to assess if founder and they are mitigating platinum ‘THIS YEAR’S their cyber risk partners, will EVENT WILL BE effectively and Professor David BIGGER, BETTER Denyer, of Cranfield AND BOLDER University, will THAN EVER’ discuss what stackable digital learning means and how it will transform the future of professional development.

There will also be a keynote speech from 123 Internet Group’s very own CEO, Scott Jones.

Scott said: “Our MK Digital Summit is ultimately an amazing opportunity to hear incredible speakers from some of the most

highly respected software providers and industry leaders and this year’s event will be bigger, better and bolder than ever before.

“Attendees will get the chance to hear about the latest technology trends and discover how they can use them to enhance their business and develop their digital marketing strategy.

“We’re hugely grateful to our event sponsors – Triangle Networks, Wilson Browne Solicitors and Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce – for helping us to make this fantastic event a reality.”

A representative from the popular charity Mind, will also be speaking at the all-day event, which is expected to attract more than 250 attendees.

The event will take place from 9am to 5pm and catering will be included.

For further information about the summit and to book tickets visit www.mkdigitalsummit.co.uk

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DIRECTOR JOINS HOWES PERCIVAL Leading law firm Howes Percival has expanded its corporate, commercial, and banking (CCB) team with the recruitment of Tom Redman as director.

A corporate and venture capital specialist, Tom joins Howes Percival’s growing, 32-strong CCB team from Dentons UK and Middle East LLP and will be based in the firm's Milton Keynes office.

Tom has experience of advising all types of businesses, from ownermanaged through to large, listed multinational groups.

His experience spans a wide range of corporate transactions, including acquisitions and disposals, private equity transactions, joint ventures, group reorganizations, restructurings, and corporate governance matters.

He has considerable experience in complex domestic and cross-border corporate transactions, with particular expertise in buying and selling motor dealerships.

Tom’s venture capital work has seen him act for founders, start-ups, scale-ups and venture funds in the UK and ‘IN A LITTLE internationally across a myriad of sectors and at all stages of an emerging growth company's development life cycle.

OVER A YEAR, Andy Harris, partner and head of Howes Percival’s CCB OUR MK OFFICE team, said: “We’ve been expanding our corporate team HAS VIRTUALLY across the firm, and our Milton Keynes office generally.

DOUBLED Tom Redman (left) and Andrew Harris “In a little over a year, our MK office has virtually IN SIZE’ doubled in size. We’re also looking to the future and planning for succession. Tom joins our new generation of senior lawyers, which in our region includes our new partners Howes Percival’s CCB team recently reported the completion Marcus Carter and Matt Thompson. of more than 80 deals in the first three quarters of 2021, with a “We want to capitalise on Tom’s mergers and acquisitions expertise combined value of £477m. and his knowledge within the automotive, venture and private equity markets in particular.”

Visit: www.howespercival.com/services/corporate

RECOGNITION FOR BEYOND THEORY Local training consultancy Beyond Theory has achieved the very latest standards set by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM).

Their bespoke leadership and management training modules are now ILM recognised, which is great news for their clients who can rest assured that their training continues to be quality assured to meet the highest benchmarks.

The ILM Recognised training programmes are Customer Service Leadership and Engaging Leadership.

These training programmes include training modules which are half day, flexible and purposefully designed to meet business needs. They can be delivered face-to-face or online, with organisations selecting from a range of modules to fit their business needs.

Beyond Theory director Paul Beesley said: “We have been working with the ILM since 2014. The ILM have increased their standards, so it was an easy decision to benchmark our training accordingly.

Providing the highest quality training is important for us not to mention our clients.”

The new flexible ILM Recognised training programmes complement the ILM Level 3 and Level 5 Diplomas offered by Beyond Theory, which follow a defined syllabus.

Course participants who complete their ILM Recognised courses will receive the new digital credentials which can be added to their LinkedIn profiles and other social media platforms.

Email: paul@beyondtheory.co.uk Call: 01604 212505

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Main: Sheila Smith Inset: Lindsey Marriott

POPULAR BUSINESS EXPO IS SET TO MAKE A RETURN Founder of the Northamptonshire Business Expo, Sheila Smith, is excitedly planning for a show-stopping return to the events calendar on 16 June at The Holiday Inn, Corby.

The Northamptonshire Business Expo has been unable to run for the past two years due to the pandemic, but this summer is back with a bang.

"We understand very well the challenges our industry has faced since the world turned upside down in 2020, and we are delighted to be able to bring the best of ourselves back to support the local Northamptonshire business community with this event," said Sheila.

The Northamptonshire Business Expo launched in 2014 as a showcase platform for every type of business together with a strategic agenda of workshops designed to help both exhibitors and visitors to learn and implement

new skills and strategies to grow their business.

It was a massive undertaking, but research indicated there was nothing similar in the county at that time.

The 2022 event will include a Creative Café seminar from Lindsey Marriott of Specific Learning and Coaching. The session will include detailed business planning based on customer touchpoints, focusing on improving processes and client satisfaction.

Sheila Smith will also be hosting the Leicester Business Expo on 28 April at the King Power Stadium.

The cost to exhibit at either expo is £275 plus VAT and the events are both free for visitors to attend.

Visit: www.yourbusinessexpo.co.uk

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BUSINESS REPORT

LEFT: Restoration work on the theatre’s safety curtain ABOVE: Sir Henry Bird’s signature

FUNDING HELPS RAISE THE CURTAIN Thanks to a National Lottery Heritage Fund artist Sir Henry Bird, who lived and worked in grant, work has taken place on an important Northampton until his death in 2000, the heritage project at Northampton’s curtain’s dynamic and elaborate Royal & Derngate theatre. design includes figures from Made possible by money raised classical mythology and the early ‘WE TAKE

by National Lottery players, history of theatre, all painted in conservation work has been the artist’s trademark OUR ROLE AS carried out on the highly flamboyant style.

CUSTODIANS OF decorated painted safety curtain, Portraits that border the THIS GORGEOUS which has been in constant use curtain include important THEATRE VERY in the Royal Theatre for over 40 figures in the history of the years. theatre, including builder Henry SERIOUSLY’ Specialist art conservators from Martin, actor manager Lionel Chroma Conservation have cleaned Hamilton, designer Tom Osbornethe surface of the curtain, repairing the Robinson, barman Denis Richards and damage and retouching paint losses so it will Northampton Repertory Company actors be preserved for the future audiences to enjoy.

Errol Flynn and the artist’s wife Freda Jackson.

Completed in 1978 by nationally acclaimed In an associated community project,

supported by Northamptonshire Community Foundation and in collaboration with Northants Cultural Education Partnership, the theatre’s Creative Learning team have worked with digital artist Chris Lowe and Red Bear Media to develop an interactive website for primary schools which provides additional classroom resources linked to the safety curtain.

Chief executive Jo Gordon said: “We take our role as custodians of this gorgeous theatre very seriously so we’re delighted to see the work taking place to conserve Sir Henry Bird’s masterpiece. At the same time it’s wonderful to have the chance to inspire young people to engage with the theatre and its history and to think about creative roles in the industry.”

Visit: www.royalandderngate.co.uk

THE CURVE GROUP AWARDED TWO ISOS The Curve Group, the UK’s largest privately-owned recruitment and HR outsource provider, is delighted to announce it has been awarded two ISO certifications, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to best practice, internal quality processes and information security management.

The ISO 9001 Quality Management standard is based on a number of quality management principles, including a strong customer focus, company-wide commitment to effective process management and dedication to continual improvement. The ISO 27001 standard is based on the management and security of confidential and sensitive assets such as employee details, intellectual property and financial information, including information entrusted by third parties.

Chief operating officer Kelly York said: “The Curve Group sought to achieve both standards in recognition of our commitment to delivering excellence for our clients and our ongoing determination to provide industry leading outsource and consultancy solutions.

“We are proud to receive external validation from UKAS Accredited British Assessment Bureau. They have confirmed that our business is underpinned by robust data security and quality management processes.”

Northamptonshire Sport director Chris Holmes in front of the organisation’s new branding

NEW BRANDING FOR CHARITY Leading Northamptonshire physical activity, health and wellbeing charity Northamptonshire Sport is celebrating a new chapter this spring by launching a new website and fresh new branding.

The organisation delivers sports participation events, physical activity programmes, wellbeing projects and delivers national initiatives locally having achieved official charity status in October 2020.

Northamptonshire Sport’s new slogan ‘Let’s Move Together’ invites the local community to collaborate to change lives through widening participation in physical activity to make the county a happier, healthier and more active place.

For more information about ways to be active in Northamptonshire, partnership opportunities and Northamptonshire Sport’s work visit www.northamptonshiresport.org APRIL/MAY 2022 inbusiness 17

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MILESTONE FOR DEPUTY CEO

Julie Maclennan

VIN TO LEAD PRISON PROJECT Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire (VIN) has an exciting project that is underway at the new HMP Five Wells prison in Wellingborough.

The prison, the first of its type in the UK, is designated as a class C Resettlement Institution. It differs from traditional prisons as the emphasis is very much on helping the residents learn the skills they need to reintegrate into society in a way that reduces any possible need to reoffend.

Run by G4S, VIN has a role in supporting the Health and Well-being programmes over the next 12 months.

With many similarities to the Nordic model that has reduced reoffending rates by over 50%, it is hoped this new approach at HMP Five Wells will lead to a culture change in how society treats offenders.

With the prison providing many training opportunities to reskill the residents, VIN will provide additional programmes which take a holistic approach to knowledge, advice and support.

VIN CEO Russell Rolph said: “This is a very exciting project for VIN to be involved with. The idea that we reskill instead of punish offenders, and from there they contribute to a thriving society has to be a model which gains traction amongst our prison institutions.

“I look forward to seeing the results over the next 12 months.”

Visit: www.voluntaryimpact.org.uk

18 inbusiness APRIL/MAY 2022

One of the key figures at Northamptonshire Chamber will soon celebrate her first anniversary as the organisation’s deputy CEO. Julie Maclennan joined the organisation 18 years ago as an HR and payroll assistant.

Over the years she took on a variety of roles before becoming the Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes Chamber Group HR and resources manager.

Last summer, after helping the Chamber to navigate the difficulties of the pandemic, she was promoted again and became the group’s deputy CEO. Julie, who is one of the organisation’s longest-serving staff ‘THIS IS A members, said: “I’ve remained with the Chamber for nearly two FANTASTIC TIME decades because I think the role it plays in supporting businesses TO BELONG TO is so important and I’m proud to be part of such a dedicated team.

THE CHAMBER’ “I was delighted to be promoted to deputy CEO last summer and also humbled that such faith had been put in me to take our team forward alongside our interim CEO Louise Wall.

“This is a fantastic time to belong to the Chamber because we’re working on so many new innovations to further benefit our members.

“During the past year we’ve launched two new memberships – our Start-Up membership to support new businesses and our International Trade membership.

“We’ve also introduced our ChamberCustoms service which has turned the complicated process of importing and exporting into a smooth, quick and entirely transparent experience for businesses.

“We’re also working hard on exciting plans for our Next Generation Chamber and Women With Vision platforms and have lots of face to face events planned for this year including the much anticipated 2022 Northamptonshire Business Awards.”

BUSINESS COACH STARTS A FRESH CHAPTER IN HER CAREER An executive coach and trainer with 25 years of experience in senior corporate roles has released her first business book.

Della Judd, of Della Judd Ltd, specialises in the development of leadership skills and runs a variety of coaching programs, including maternity returner coaching, senior outplacement career coaching and helping those suffering with burnout and stress return to work.

She has now released her first business book called ‘How To Get The Job You Really Want… In a Post Pandemic World’ and is donating some copies for free.

Della said: “When I began writing I realised I wanted the book to help as many people as possible so I started a crowdfunding project so

people could buy one and donate one.

“Now, as the books are being purchased, I’m looking to work with other local businesses who will help me to distribute them to jobseekers in need of additional help and support.

“I would love to be able to offer some of my books to Chamber businesses who help people find work or return to work perhaps after redundancy, maternity or burnout.”

If you are interested in working with Della to distribute free copies of her book contact 07717454833.

To donate to the project visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/publish-my-getyour-dream-job-book

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UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS OF SALES SKILLS Northamptonshire-based Sales Ace, Julie Futcher, has a very clear core philosophy.

She wants to make sure that anyone who is new to sales has the support and training they need to be a success.

That means knowing more than just good sales technique, you also need to have a clear ‘why’.

Most sales training is focused on skills but rarely on the additional needs of the learner. Experience told Julie that people who are new to sales needed a different approach.

That need is the reason she created her Basics of Sales Skills course. It consists of five, two-hour sessions that cover all the skills salespeople must have to kick start their careers.

Crucially though, it also encourages the attendees to develop a deeper understanding of

why they are in a sales role.

This course also links to the ongoing Sales Club which helps continue the development process.

Julie explained: “I feel very strongly that part of my own ‘why’ is to help new salespeople thrive.

That means support and guidance as well as basic training in sales.

“I know that if you go right to the heart of the ‘why’ for both yourself and the business you will develop the motivation needed to be a great sales professional.”

As one of the most experienced sales training professionals in the area, Julie is clear about her own why. Her personal mission is to make sure that new salespeople get the best possible start to their career by having access to the right training and support.

Julie Futcher

Visit: www.thesalesace.co.uk

FREE MENTORING SCHEME PILOTED Instructus Group is excited to announce the development of its newest and most impactful charitable offering to date.

Instructus Works Mentoring is being designed to provide free mentor training and the necessary ongoing support to individuals and organisations locally that support any form of disadvantaged group or community who could benefit from mentorship.

Instructus Group head of people and culture Emily Willis said: “It’s well known that mentoring can help people identify who they want to become and so they can take real and actionable steps to realise their ambitions.

“Unfortunately, mentoring is often reserved for those already on the right path or those who are well supported enough to gain access to mentorship programmes when they need it.

“We hope that in providing this training, those serving in disadvantaged groups or communities can better guide people who really need help with the support to start or rebuild their lives, careers or relationships - whatever is most important and impactful to them.

“We’ll be piloting the scheme in the summer and are looking for relevant, local organisations to join us on this journey by participating in our two-day pilot programme.

“Participants will experience the programme free of charge and can then mentor people in their community, service or organisation with the new skills, knowledge and tools received through the training.

“Our goal is to positively impact as many lives as possible through education or training and we’re excited to see what this new project will bring to Northamptonshire and beyond.”

Email: Emily.Willis@instructus.org 20 inbusiness APRIL/MAY 2022

HOSPICE SHOP EXPANDS TO ONLINE OFFERING

Cransley Hospice’s new Curated by Cransley store is giving shoppers the chance to make an environmentally conscious shopping choice and support hospice care in north Northamptonshire.

The store opened at 2 The Horsemarket in Kettering at the end of last year and offers an eclectic mix of vintage fashions and accessories, along with hand-selected bric-abrac and home furnishings.

It has been so popular it is now expanding its offering online into a new Etsy store, which is providing incredible new possibilities for the charity.

Marketing manager Jacqueline Cheung said: “Excitingly, our marketing team at Cransley Hospice Trust has also been very busy

developing the eCommerce platform on our website and will soon unveil our new shopping experience.

“This will truly futureproof our retail operation and expand our offering to the whole of the UK. “Of course, it’s thanks to the generosity of donations received from our supporters that this new venture is even possible.”

Anyone having a clear out, or seeking a new home for donations of quality clothing, accessories and bric-a-brac can drop them off at the Cransley Hospice Charity Shop during opening hours, or contact the charity’s Fundraising Team on 01536 452423 to discuss a collection of larger donations.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF BRANDING Headshot photographer Wani Olatunde is encouraging businesspeople to consider their personal branding in 2022.

Wani, who loves helping clients stand out from the crowd with elevated headshots and corporate portraits, believes personal branding is an extension of who you are and how you present yourself and your business to potential clients and customers both online and offline.

She said: “Personal branding is a term that is continuously being thrown around but what does it mean and why is it important?

“In today’s social media world that is increasingly driven by visuals and storytelling, building that ‘Know, Like, Trust’ factor is more important than ever. So, whether you are a product or service-based business or if you are a solopreneur or head up a small team – branding photography should be one of your primary investments this year.”

Social media platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook are all noisy marketplaces with hundreds of businesses in each industry vying for a customer’s limited attention.

This has only become more intense with a record number of businesses going online during the pandemic.

‘CREATE A LOYAL With algorithms driven by AND ENGAGED follower engagement, it has FOLLOWER BASE never been more important to AND ULTIMATELY stand out from the crowd.

Wani added: “Crafting and GROW YOUR honing a recognisable personal BUSINESS’ brand is how you separate yourself from the competition, be more appealing to your target audience, create a loyal and engaged follower base and ultimately grow your business. Start with headshots and show the faces behind the business. Behind the scenes shots give potential clients a sneak peek into your working process.

And a bank of custom stock photos will give you marketing images you can use throughout the year.”

Wani Olatunde

Visit: www.waniolatundeportraits.com

SUPPORT FOR PARENTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN Family Support Link has launched two innovative programmes that will start this spring in Northamptonshire.

Parents under Pressure (PuP) will focus on parents of children aged between two and eight who are receiving treatment for substance use and the charity’s M-PACT programme will help youngsters aged from eight to 17 who have affected by someone else’s substance use.

CEO Julia Feazey said: “Parenting can be difficult at the best of times, but it is particularly hard when you’re managing other stressful situations. Our PuP programme takes a positive approach to identify the strengths within parents’ lives and capitalise on them.

“It works to build the parents’ self-confidence, enables them to develop their own emotional regulation and therefore allow

The M-PACT programme will help youngsters aged eight to 17

them to support their children’s emotional regulation and helps them to build a stronger bond with their children.

“This early intervention support has been shown to have a significant impact on parents and children, reducing the risks of the children being affected by their parent’s substance use.

“Through our M-PACT programme we’ll be working across the whole family for the first time, with children and parents talking together about their family life and identifying how to create change.

For many of these children, this will be the first time they’ve had the chance to have a voice in the family.

“As one family has said of the programme elsewhere ‘everything began with M-PACT’.”

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GOING GLOBAL

GOING GLOBAL

The Chamber’s INTERNATIONAL TRADE TEAM will help you navigate your way through all of the regulatory procedures and documents that you’ll need for successful international trading

DACHSER UNVEILS PLANS FOR FURTHER EXPANSION Logistics provider Dachser is once again expanding its logistics centre in Erfurt, Germany, and adding some 3,200 m2 of transit terminal space to its stock warehouse in the nearby Thörey commercial zone.

This means the Dachser location now has 6,100 m2 of floor space available for industrial goods and a total of about 3,300 m2 for food.

Adding space to the transit terminal creates an extra 49 gates for loading and unloading trucks.

“The expansion allows us to make procedures and processes for handling cargo even more efficient,” says Dr. Rimbert J. Kelber, general manager of Dachser’s Erfurt logistics centre.

“In addition to being better placed to cope with daily fluctuations and workload peaks, we’re also creating ideal conditions for our continued growth.”

Dachser’s logistics centre

Alexander Tonn, COO Road Logistics, said: “By investing in the future of this location, we’re ensuring that at all times, we’ll be able to provide our customers in the region with logistics services of the high quality they are used to. Thanks to the tremendous commitment of our employees during and after the restrictions imposed during the pandemic, we’ve always been able to reliably maintain our delivery capability.”

NEW TOOL TO HELP IMPORTERS Experts at ChamberCustoms and Exabler have launched a new, useful tool for importers.

The UK import tax calculator is quick, easy and free to use and can work out the different rates of duty available to businesses when importing goods, helping traders to keep trading.

Businesses can use the online service any time of night or day to work out what needs to be paid to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

Northamptonshire Chamber deputy CEO Julie Maclennan said: “This handy tool can help anyone importing goods, whether they are a one-man-band or a large corporation.”

To find out more about the UK tax import calculator or to have a go, visit www.chambercustoms.co.uk

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: CHARITIES, SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & FUNDRAISING

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Michelle Hollis of Barratt Homes presented the charity with a cheque for £1,000 donated to the Twinkling Stars appeal

In this issue we look at the CHARITIES, SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & FUNDRAISING, HOTELS, CONFERENCES & EVENTS, and COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING sectors in the Northamptonshire area

12-year-old Reiss Wheatley-Crane raised £2,300 for the children’s play area by running 100km in June 2021

HELP NEEDED FOR CHARITY PROJECTS Northamptonshire Health Charity needs help to complete two major projects which will transform the lives of hospital patients in the county.

At Northampton General Hospital, it has raised almost £50,000 towards the £130,000 needed to create a fantastic new outside play area between the children’s wards.

Meanwhile, thanks to overwhelming support, it has also raised more than £200,000 for the £1m Twinkling Stars appeal for a new maternity bereavement suite at Kettering General Hospital.

Charity fundraiser Robert Powell said: “At Northampton General Hospital, children of all ages are treated on the Disney and Paddington

wards, with some receiving chemotherapy. Play is vital in helping children comprehend what is happening to them, which in turn helps them cope with receiving treatment.

“The new play area will be equipped to provide a range of outside activities as well as new options for physiotherapy.

“It will have improved accessibility for all, which will enable parents and carers with physical disabilities to take their children out to play.

“At Kettering General Hospital, the current maternity bereavement room is situated within the labour ward – where parents are celebrating new arrivals. At times of great sadness for

bereaved families this can add to the overwhelming sense of loss they feel.

“Interim changes to improve facilities will begin soon and the charity needs help from businesses and individuals to continue raising funds to reach the £1m target.

“The proposed new area will include a new bereavement room, a family room as well as a quiet room and an office.”

Anyone who can help is urged to contact the charity team by emailling greenheart@nhcf.co.uk or calling 01604 626927.

Visit: www.northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk

SPONSORS SOUGHT FOR FUNDRAISERS The founders of a well-known Northamptonshire charity will host two of their biggest ever fundraisers this year, but sponsorship from the local business community is needed to make them happen.

Lorraine and Lee Lewis from The Lewis Foundation are planning the momentous events in June and October to celebrate the charity’s sixth anniversary and the 75,000 free gifts they have given to adult cancer patients since they set up in 2016.

The multi-award-winning charity – which provides overnight essentials, toiletries, and other helpful items to patients at 15 hospitals in the East Midlands – now delivers a staggering

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2,500 free gift and care packs each month.

Lorraine said: “Our plans in June are for a family ‘water dash’ followed by a memory walk in October. We hope to raise thousands of pounds through both so we can continue to bring a comfort and happiness to adult cancer patients as they undergo treatment.

“We’ll still host regular fundraisers throughout the year, but these two big events will mark our sixth birthday and we simply can’t run them without corporate sponsorship.”

Lorraine says it does not have to be financial support, as a small charity there are other ways businesses can assist.

She added: “We need volunteer marshals to

help us host on the day, water tank hire, people to fill up water pistols and act as first aiders, photographers and videographers and have lots of other roles too. Our corporate partnership opportunities are about genuine collaboration, so we’re always open to ideas.

“We’re grateful to our existing commercial supporters who help us make a huge difference. But with even more interest and sponsorship, we can grow to help a greater number of adult cancer patients.”

To sponsor, donate or volunteer or for further information about The Lewis Foundation visit www.thelewisfoundation.co.uk

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: CHARITIES, SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & FUNDRAISING

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: HOTELS, CONFERENCES & EVENTS

CONFERENCE CENTRE HELD CHAMBER EXPO

Jo Ferreday

PLANNING EVENTS POST PANDEMIC When the pandemic hit, about 90% of Sheer Edge’s events business went into darkness overnight.

However, managing director Jo Ferreday did not panic - she took the time to reflect, review and devise a plan so the business could continue to support its clients by running virtual events.

Fast forward two years and the live event support and corporate hospitality booking side of the agency is busier than ever as organisations are feeling more confident about running and hosting live events once again.

Jo said: “What we’re finding interesting is clients’ requirements have changed since the pandemic. Many are now looking at booking exclusive use venues for their events and entertainment.

“An increase in companies embracing hybrid working has encouraged more organisations to take their teams on experience days to create positive memories combined with getting their teams back together.

“Sustainability is also extremely high on clients’ agendas, so running sustainable events has become another ‘must have’.

“Many of the venues we work with have sustainability high on their agenda and we’re proud to have been accredited as an Eco Smart Agency by Greengage, an organisation which truly takes providing an eco-friendly service seriously.”

One thing has remained consistent throughout – Sheer Edge clients are still extremely time poor, so the need for support with events has never been greater.

Sheer Edge provides clients with options, so they’re always in control of their choices but they don't have to spend hours finding their options.

The events services make clients lives easier by ensuring every criteria is met, from the event brief, providing experienced, talented and creative event professionals who can deliver their event regardless of size or requirements.

Sourcing the right entertainment, the perfect venue or virtual platform, securing the most sought-after corporate hospitality, the main priority will always be supporting clients to achieve exceptional events.

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“The hospitality industry has had a difficult Following a successful launch and Open Day, two years, and at last it feels like events are Kettering Conference Centre is now open and back; we are looking forward to a busy and hosting a full array of business and consumer proactive year, full of amazing events.” events.

Kettering Conference Centre is managed by “We have found that organisers really like The Venues Collection - a nationwide provider of the fact we are so centrally located – I think training and conference facilities and we’re the biggest, most flexible venue part of Compass Group UK & Ireland. in this part of the country,” said The venue is a contemporary Indy Mann, general manager. “It all-purpose conference, event was great to host ‘I THINK WE’RE and exhibition centre offering Northamptonshire Chamber’s THE BIGGEST, exhibition in March, and to 12 flexible meeting spaces MOST FLEXIBLE welcome hundreds of local with a capacity of five to companies to the Centre.

2,000 delegates with a 500VENUE IN THIS “The feedback we received seater auditorium, 2,000 PART OF THE was fantastic and I’ve metre squared of exhibition COUNTRY’ arranged show-rounds with space, ample free onsite many of the people who parking with Day Delegate Rates attended. starting from £25.

“It was also great to welcome Epic Gaming back to the Centre – they held their If you’d like to have a tour of the centre to successful ‘Epic35 Powered by Intel’ gaming discuss your event needs email regional sales event here, where hundreds of gamers visited manager Lizzie Harwood at the centre for the three-day event. elizabeth.harwood@thevenuescollection.co.uk

HOTEL OPENS NEW OUTDOOR BAR Kettering Park Hotel & Spa is launching an exciting new concept called The Lawn Club in time for Easter.

The hotel’s Lawn Club will feature a new external bar in the hotel’s gardens that will be open from lunchtime onwards during the summer months. Head of sales Janice Ashton said: “Our outdoor bar will be serving a wide variety of drinks associated with the summer, including fizz, Pimm’s, gin, draft beer and our

range of English Hambledon sparkling wines.

“A special menu will also be available that will include summer dishes and afternoon tea.

“Garden games will be available and we have invested in a new range of garden furniture to complete the perfect summer’s day experience.

“There is no need to book - just come and enjoy the gardens and relax in the sunshine.”

Visit: www.ketteringparkhotel.co.uk

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: HOTELS, CONFERENCES & EVENTS

NEW ROLE FOR STEPHEN TO FOCUS ON HOTEL’S GROWTH Despite a challenging 18 months for the hospitality industry, The Park Inn by Radisson Northampton has continued to grow and invest in its team.

Most recently it welcomed its new training operations support manager Stephen Arber, who has a wealth of knowledge relating to training and development.

General manager Simon Smith said: “From starting off many years ago training as a chef and working with a number of international brands, Stephen has developed teams in the UK, North America and Canada.

“Since returning to the UK, Stephen has focused on hotel operations, working for key hospitality brands within London.

“In more recent years, Stephen worked for a five-star hotel and golf resort in Hertfordshire and then supported a group of hotels before undertaking a number of individual training and development projects.

“Stephen’s key focus is to grow our ‘STEPHEN’S KEY team at The Park Inn by Radisson FOCUS IS TO Northampton.

GROW OUR “He will develop our team members using a highly effective training TEAM AT THE programme he has created around the PARK INN’ core fundamental skills needed within the hospitality industry.

“Stephen believes in creating a fun training culture within his business and we know he will successfully deliver this culture within our hotel.”

Visit: www.parkinn.co.uk

Stephen Arber

THE RETURN OF CONFERENCES Business has finally returned to normal at Villiers Hotel in Buckingham.

The popular venue, based in Castle Street, is welcoming local companies to make use of their extensive meetings and conferencing facilities now that Covid restrictions have eased.

Villiers Hotel has space for up to 200 delegates in the Town Hall Suite as well as numerous flexible airconditioned conference and meeting rooms, including The Cellar function room for corporate events and the Laura Ashley Tea Rooms for private dining.

The hotel also offers complimentary secure parking and high speed WiFi. Call: 01280 822444 Visit: www.villiers-hotel.co.uk

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING

BIG IDEAS SECURE PRESTIGIOUS WIN A creative, digital services consultancy has WTBI’s Ethan been named Agency of the Year in a global Southern, Daena King competition. and Joanna Costello For the second year in a row the dynamic team at Corby-based web design and digital agency Wots The Big Idea (WTBI) has received the Silver Award in the Ad World Masters Agency of the Year contest.

The unique digital competition rewards agencies based on an analytical review of campaign results delivered through an AI algorithm which gives a clear indication of the agency’s potential.

Managing director and co-founder ‘IT IS A Shane Cousins said: “We are thrilled to have received this top award for FANTASTIC the second year in a row.

TIME FOR US TO “It is a fantastic time for us to BE RECOGNISED be recognised for our FOR OUR outstanding work because there OUTSTANDING is so much happening in our business at the minute.

WORK’ “We’re delighted to have welcomed three new additions to our office administration, web design and digital marketing teams and we are attracting lots of exciting new clients.

“At the same time, we’re very proud to be Digital director Dave Calvert added: “We continuing to work with our original clients who embrace the latest technologies, platforms and have supported us since the beginning.” design techniques to create the perfect fit for WTBI specialises in website design, eour clients’ business needs. commerce, creative solutions and digital “Whether they are taking their first step into marketing and has built up a strong reputation the world of e-commerce, growing an existing with clients throughout the Midlands and the brand or need a simple but effective web south. presence for their business, we have got the

Linxcom seek out the most innovative technologies

LINXCOM IMPROVES MARKET OFFERING Linxcom is a British company specialising in fibre optic and passive telecom products. Through the challenges faced in the last two years across the world, its identities and core values have progressed and evolved along with the times.

Marketing manager Steven Clarke said: “As we continue expanding our online presence, we continue to proactively seek out the newest and most innovative technologies. We’ve taken to writing informative blogs and launched cross platform links across social media to interact more pro-actively with our community and customers online. Along with a redesign of the website, we can reach out to more customers.

With regular customers getting updates about new and upcoming products, we want Linxcom to be the first thought for all their needs.

“The pandemic gave us the time and resources to delve into Research and Development. Through this, we’ve been able to create and improve products we believe suitable for our market.”

Visit: www.linx-com.com

perfect solution for them.

“We’ve provided beautiful web design for clients across Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Milton Keynes and down into London so we’re in the perfect position to help businesses with their online journey regardless of their project’s size.”

Visit: wotsthebigidea.com

HOW TO SHOWCASE COMPANY CULTURE The director of a well-respected PR firm is encouraging businesses to consider using public relations to promote their company culture.

Emma Speirs (pictured), founder and director of Ballyhoo PR, believes there are five ways in which to do this.

Firstly, look at your brand values and what is important to you as a business. These values will help to showcase your culture through your PR and communications. For example, if you are passionate about the environment, consider putting out articles and social media posts about how your company is green.

Next, shout about your training efforts. If a team member gains a new qualification or completes a course, it is great PR for your company and will also make an employee feel valued and appreciated.

Also, tell the press how you support your local community, whether that be through grassroots team sponsorship, volunteering or charity challenges. This shows you

care about where you work and raises awareness of the clubs and charities you’re supporting to a wider audience.

Consider an anonymous staff survey to further improve your working environment and share any data with the wider business community.

And lastly, enter some awards that demonstrate and provide evidence of your business culture.

Emma said: “People like to read about people – fact. One way to humanise your brand is to show the people behind it through your PR and social media activity.

“Whatever your business culture, it shouldn’t be forced. Have fun with it and let your personality shine through too. The rewards from a PR point of view are endless.”

If you would like to get across your business culture through your PR and social media activity but don’t know where to start, contact Emma on 01536 682800 or emma.speirs@ballyhoo-pr.co.uk APRIL/MAY 2022 inbusiness 29

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING

LOOKING FORWARD TO BRIGHT FUTURE Even throughout turbulent times, the team at Northamptonshirebased digital marketing agency Bright Design has been committed to pushing on with its accelerated growth plan which was introduced back in 2020.

As a new normal for businesses begins to emerge, the digital agency has started to put into motion new plans that incorporate even greater developments for the business.

Inbound marketing executive Riain Kerly said: “Along with many other British businesses, Bright Design had a rollercoaster 12 months filled with many successes alongside a number of unique pressures.

“During a time when less fortunate businesses were having to reach their conclusion, our team demonstrated resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

“Crafting innovative new ways to support our portfolio of clients to reach new markets, increase their visibility online and secure sales when they mattered most.

Demonstrating the true value of partnership. While the agency moves into brighter times, the team

The team at Bright Design

is ready to push forward with bigger and more exciting changes.

From streamlining existing services to introducing new supplementary marketing solutions.”

Bright Design looks to offer a wider and more comprehensive set

of digital services in order to support their client-partners to grow and grow more quickly.

As Bright Design looks at the months ahead, it is continuing to expand its growing workforce to keep up with the demand for their

expertise across both their Sales and Marketing teams.

Riain added: “More change is definitely on the horizon, be sure to stay in the Loop.”

Visit: www.brightdesign.co.uk

THE RIGHT TOOLS TO SHARE YOUR MESSAGE A PR and reputation management company is helping organisations improve the way they demonstrate their social and environmental impact.

Goldings Communications has had an influx of enquiries for their key messaging and tone of voice development – tailored projects which enable businesses to discover their brand personality and the ways they can reach and resonate with stakeholders and investors.

As environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues rise high up on the business agenda, it is ESG-minded, purpose-led companies that are seeing significant benefit.

Kim Hughes, director at Goldings Communications said: “Businesses are under pressure to drive positive change, but it’s not always easy to communicate their activities to the wider public.

“It can be a daunting task for companies and business owners to do anything beyond adding a section to their annual report, but there’s lots of ways they can boost the profile of their ESG efforts with target audiences.

“Through our key messaging and tone of voice projects we go back

to basics. We guide clients through a complex process which involves their staff, customers, and other influential individuals.

“Then we create a brand voice chart and key message framework which they can weave into all their communications. It helps them create engaging, meaningful content around the issues they want to showcase, but also helps them plan future PR and reputation management activities so that they can keep spreading the right messages.”

To book a free consultation email kim@goldings-comms.co.uk or visit www.goldings-comms.co.uk

NLive Radio can now help you launch or develop your own podcast.

NLive Radio is not only the local radio station that loves Northampton, it also loves podcasts and podcasters, and now it’s launched its own podcasting service to help individuals, businesses and community groups launch or develop their own podcasts.

From providing recording space in their radio studios, to full development and production support, or even one of their presenters hosting, they can tailor something to all needs, big and small.

Station manager Martin Steers said: “Last year Edison research released their infinite dial which showed that over 41% of the UK listened to a podcast in November 2021.

“Podcasting can be a great way to market yourself, your services, and more importantly your experience and expertise.

“From considering it an extension of your marketing mix, to even developing it as a side hustle or additional income stream, podcasting has lots of purposes and can have great outcomes when well planned, developed and delivered.”

Visit: nliveradio.com/podcasting

Kim Hughes

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WANT TO LAUNCH YOUR OWN PODCAST?

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TALKING BUSINESS

NEW AUTHORITY, NEW OPPORTUNITIES This April marks the first anniversary of the creation of North Northamptonshire Council. The authority’s leader, Cllr Jason Smithers, reflects on his first year at the helm of the organisation which delivers key public services to businesses and individuals across the north of the county. further advice and funding opportunities.

On 1 April 2021 a new form of government came to life in “I’m exceptionally proud that our team quickly got funds out to Northamptonshire. The county’s seven district and borough councils, along with the cash-strapped Northamptonshire help businesses through the pandemic because they’ve been a County Council, were abolished and replaced by two new unitary lifeline to many organisations,” said Cllr Smithers. authorities – North Northamptonshire Council and West “Moving forward we’ll continue to engage with businesses Northamptonshire Council. through business forums as we seek to get the balance right North Northamptonshire Council now manages a net budget of between supporting big organisations and helping smaller firms. around £295m to deliver public services to the communities “We’re also working with colleges and the university around skills and apprenticeships and are looking at how we can utilise across North Northamptonshire including in Corby, Kettering, East Northamptonshire and Wellingborough. local businesses by procuring services from them.

And the authority’s first leader, Cllr Jason Smithers, who has “Whether it’s providing us with paper or fitting out our buildings worked in the automotive rental industry at director level across we want to work with local businesses wherever we can.” the world and runs his own automotive and catering firms, is As well as supporting existing businesses, the authority is adamant that one of the council’s key focuses is on also keen to attract new organisations to the area. supporting businesses of all sizes across the area.

Through its Recovery Through Enterprise project, it is proud to be providing Enterprise Centres in “I believe local businesses are our life blood,” said Cllr Smithers. “Big corporates have a Raunds, Kettering and Corby which offer ‘WHETHER IT’S hugely important role to play in our modern facilities at competitive rents for new PROVIDING US WITH communities but it’s the uniqueness of our businesses.

PAPER OR FITTING OUT small to medium-sized businesses that make Cllr Smithers explained: “Our Enterprise OUR BUILDINGS WE up our area’s DNA and we should consider Centres are helping businesses to start their them in our decision-making processes. journey and they can access expert advice WANT TO WORK WITH “Being from the business world myself I’m on site.

LOCAL BUSINESSES aware that local authorities are traditionally “We see these centres as being WHEREVER fundamental to encouraging new businesses seen as not being very good at communicating WE CAN’ to start up in the area. with local businesses.

“Ultimately, we want to be a council that can “However, we’ve been given an opportunity here, with the creation of this new authority, to support businesses and enable them to create new reboot those relationships with businesses and to home jobs here which in turn helps our residents. in on their requirements and how we as an organisation can “If people have good employment, they have money to support them.” spend in the local economy which benefits everyone.

There’s no doubt the new council hit the ground running as it “That’s why we’re also doing everything we can to streamline strove to help businesses through the tough times of the pandemic. processes to allow businesses to build here so we can attract more big employers which will benefit the area.

Last year the council managed to channel financial support to “As a result of this stance, Tritax Symmetry is currently working over 800 businesses impacted by the pandemic. This work has continued with more than 150 local businesses recently supported on a development of 2m sq ft of logistics floor space near with one-off grants of up to £6,000 through the Omicron junction 9 of the A14 in Kettering which will bring jobs into the Hospitality and Leisure Grant scheme. area. As part of the planning permission for the site the developer The council has also provided 29 businesses across different will also provide funding for improvement works to the A508 sectors with Recovery and Innovation Grant funding to help them between Kettering and Wellingborough.

“Essentially, we’re keen to show large businesses that if they deliver their ambitious growth plans. come here, we’ll support them wherever we can, but we also need The council is also launching a mobile application and website in the spring called DiscoverNN (Discover North Northants). This input from them in terms of jobs creation and contributions to will provide a modern and inter-connected approach to local facilities and infrastructure. promoting attractions, high street and retail businesses as well as “Attracting government investment into the area, our local town other services that are available locally. centres and infrastructure such as roads and transportation is also Along with Northamptonshire Chamber, the council is proud to vital. The council is working with partners to deliver the £20m Corby Town Fund and Kettering’s town £4m centre improvement be supporting fellow Chamber members North Northants works are well underway.

Business Network which is a new membership organisation in North Northamptonshire committed to supporting local “The continued roll-out of superfast broadband, EV charging businesses, charities and organisations. infrastructure and facilitating the delivery of good quality, In the past few months, the council has also funded the NN affordable homes, education and skills development are important Future Retail Programme delivered by Building Business too. We recognise that these should be delivered responsibly and Consultancy and its trusted partners. we acknowledge that we have an important role leading on The programme was specifically aimed at supporting the recovery climate change locally in this regard.”

“When it comes to businesses in North Northamptonshire I have of retail businesses across Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough and East Northamptonshire and boosting local town centres. It included an open door policy. Any organisation that wants to reach out to bespoke one-to-one business advice, webinars and master classes me directly can do so via Twitter by messaging @SmithersJason or focussed on developing business, peer-to-peer networking and by emailing me at Jason.Smithers@NorthNorthants.gov.uk helpful business tools. Participants also received signposting to “I’m always happy to listen and take any feedback to our council.”

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TALKING BUSINESS PHOTOS BY: JANE RUSSELL PHOTOGRAPHY

FACTFILE: NORTH NORTHAMPTONSHIRE COUNCIL BACKGROUND: North Northamptonshire Council is the single unitary council responsible for providing a range of public services to residents and businesses in the North Northamptonshire area. It replaced Corby Borough Council, East Northamptonshire Council, Kettering Borough Council, the Borough Council of Wellingborough and Northamptonshire County Council and now delivers all the services which were previously provided by these councils.

MAIN: Cllr Jason Smithers INSET: When it comes to businesses in North Northamptonshire, Cllr Jason Smithers has an open door policy and is keen to listen and take any feedback to the council

ORGANISATION DESCRIPTION: North Northamptonshire Council provides a wide range of services, including collection of household waste, parks and open space maintenance, street cleaning, environmental health and planning services.

The authority also delivers many of the services which were provided by the former Northamptonshire County Council, including Education, Highways, Adult Social Care and Libraries. The council is a Northamptonshire Chamber Gold Chamber Business Partner.

JOINING THE CHAMBER: “I’ve always found Chambers to be a fantastic sounding board for the local business community and was totally behind the decision for us to join Northamptonshire Chamber. Being a part of the Chamber is a great way for us to integrate into the local business community.”

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TRAINING & EVENTS

TRAINING & EVENTS SALES AND MARKETING USING LINKEDIN FOR SALES Date: 5 May (half-day) Cost: Members: £150 + VAT Non-members: £199 + VAT This workshop is designed to support the delegate to generate quality sales leads through LinkedIn. By the end of this workshop delegates will have a ‘sales-ready’ personal profile and understand what to post to attract their target audience.

EFFECTIVE FACE TO FACE MEETINGS Date: 19 May (one-day) Cost: Members: £249 + VAT Non-members: £319 + VAT Face to face meetings play a key role in the sales process. This course helps you to develop your skills so you can run an effective face to face meeting to reach your desired objective, demonstrate why your product/service meets their needs and gain an understanding of why face to face meetings are so important.

SEO: THE IMPORTANCE OF ONLINE MARKETING AND HOW TO UPDATE YOUR WEBSITE Date: 24 May (half-day) Cost: Members: £150 + VAT Non-members: £199 + VAT Suitable for any business owner/marketer, who is looking to broaden their understanding of what Google looks for, how to present their website in the right way and how updates to website pages and content can help achieve maximum results. Updating your website is crucial for achieving top rankings against competitors.

MANAGEMENT AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SUCCESSFUL SUPERVISORY MANAGEMENT Date: 27 & 28 April (two-days) Cost: Members: £498 + VAT Non-members: £638 + VAT This two-day course is appropriate for supervisors, team leaders and 34 inbusiness APRIL/MAY 2022

TRAINING COURSES All Chamber training courses are currently delivered virtually. Call the Training Team for more details on 01604 490490 or email training@northants-chamber.co.uk

Follow us on Twitter @NorthantsCoC

anyone who manages staff and is responsible for the work of others.

The course will support you in developing your skills to enable you to manage and motivate people effectively and productively, build a strong foundation of key management skills, develop a better understanding of how to influence your staff and identify areas of personal strength and areas for further development.

HOW TO HOLD DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS Date: 4 May (half-day) Cost: Members: £150 + VAT Non-members: £199 + VAT This course will help staff identify what it may be that’s preventing them from having difficult conversations and provide them with strategies to handle these conversations effectively.

LEADING HYBRID TEAMS Date: 11 May (one-day) Cost: Members: £249 + VAT Non-members: £319 + VAT The shift to hybrid work has had a substantial impact on managers.

This course supports managers and supervisors to develop the skills required to effectively manage diverse teams and adapt their management style to meet differing circumstances whilst understanding key elements of staff motivation. It offers a wide context and helps organisations to continue their delivery of great customer service and supportive teamwork.

BUSINESS TOOLKIT INTERMEDIATE POWERPOINT Date: 26 April (one-day) Cost: Members: £249 + VAT Non-members: £319 + VAT Anyone who uses PowerPoint to create presentations and has a good knowledge of slide techniques and layouts will benefit from attending this course. It will help users to understand the use of Master Slides and using PowerPoint with other applications such as Word and Excel. It will cover the use of linking slides and the internet through hyperlinks and making use of extra tools and techniques to efficiently enhance your presentations.

ADULT MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS Date: 17 May (half-day) Cost: Members: £150 + VAT Non-members: £199 + VAT The purpose of this course is to educate and raise awareness of mental health in the workplace. By the end of this course, delegates will be able to look after their own mental health and maintain wellbeing, have the confidence to support someone in distress or who may be experiencing a mental health issue, understand what mental health is and how to challenge the stigma surrounding it and have knowledge of some common mental health issues.

CREDIT CONTROL FOR EVERYONE Date: 26 May (one-day) Cost: Members: £249 + VAT Non-members: £319 + VAT Are you a Sole Trader, Partnership or small Limited Company? This course explains the purposes and benefits of credit control, navigating through objections, getting your invoices paid and looking at best in practice techniques to adopt to maximise your cashflow to benefit your organisation.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE CUSTOMS PROCEDURES AND DOCUMENTATION INCLUDING RULES OF ORIGIN Date: 13 April (one-day) Cost: Members: £319 + VAT Non-members: £389 + VAT This course covers the key information required to understand organisations involved in International Trade and what is an Export? It will also cover international documentation and key information, Rules of Origin, Customs Compliance, HMRC – their role, Export Declarations, Customs Procedures, Import Duties, AEO, Audit, Phased Import Easements and NI Trade.

UNDERSTANDING COMMODITY CODES Date: 26 April (one-day) Cost: Members: £319 + VAT Non-members: £389 + VAT Suitable for complete beginners or experienced operators who feel the need to refresh their knowledge.

This course looks at understanding Commodity Codes, why they’re needed and who is responsible.

Several practical exercises are included in this course to ensure attendees have a strong

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MEMBER ZONE The CHAMBER EVENTS TEAM has worked hard to adapt and deliver a new format of events, increasing the range and availability of our schedule.

EVENT IN FOCUS NETWORKING LUNCH Businesses from across the county will get the chance to forge new relationships at a special lunch in April.

Northampton Marriott will host Northamptonshire Chamber’s next Networking Lunch on Thursday, 21 April.

The event will be particularly special as attendees will be joined Ministry of Defence regional employer engagement director Bruce Spencer who will be present to witness Chamber president Robyn Allen sign the Armed Forces Covenant on behalf of our Chamber.

The lunch is exclusive to Chamber members and will take place from 11.45am to 2.30pm. understanding of Commodity Codes.

Places cost £25 plus VAT and can be booked by calling 01604 490490.

IMPORT PROCEDURES INCLUDING IP AND OP Date: 4 May (one-day) Cost: Members: £319 + VAT Non-members: £389 + VAT This course provides an overview of the end-to-end import process and reviews all the areas that would be applicable to a new supplier, including country and supplier risk and payment risk. It will review documentation requirements and how to ensure goods are imported successfully to include duty payments and an overview of the available Special Procedures.

LETTERS OF CREDIT AND METHODS OF PAYMENT Date: 26 May (one-day) Cost: Members: £319 + VAT Non-members: £389 + VAT The course provides an overview of all methods of payment when trading internationally, including the risks and benefits involved. It then concentrates on the Letter of Credit aspect, guiding you through the rules of managing a Letter of Credit, making sure documents are compliant and payment successful.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS WOMEN WITH VISION – NETWORKING

BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

Venue: Date: Time: Cost:

Venue: Date: Time: Cost:

Northampton Active 20 April 10am – 11.30am £10 + VAT (Women with Vision members only)

Square Media Offices, Corby 10 May 8.30am – 10am £10 + VAT (members) £15 + VAT (non-members)

For bookings email events@northants-chamber.co.uk

WOMEN WITH VISION – PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT DELIVERED BY A CHAMPION MEMBER

NETWORKING LUNCH

Venue: Online Date: 11 May Time: 10am – 11am Cost: Free (Women with Vision members only) For bookings email events@northants-chamber.co.uk

Venue: Date: Time: Cost:

Marriott Hotel 21 April 12pm – 2.30pm £25 + VAT (Members only)

NEXT GENERATION – NETWORKING Venue: Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce offices Date: 26 April Time: 5.30pm – 7pm Cost: Free (Next Generation members only) For bookings email info@nextgenerationchamber.co.uk

NEXT GENERATION – PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT WITH JULIE FUTCHER FROM THE SALES ACE Venue: Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce offices Date: 24 May Time: 5.30pm – 7pm Cost: Free (Next Generation members only) For bookings email info@nextgenerationchamber.co.uk

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MEMBER ZONE

MEMBERZONE Latest news from NORTHAMPTONSHIRE CHAMBER MEMBERS including award wins, relocations, appointments, new contracts, member profiles, mergers, company expansion plans, sponsorship deals and business success stories

EMPLOYMENT LAW TRAINING PACKAGES Wilson Browne Solicitors have launched a range of training packages for employers of all sizes.

With the amount of red tape surrounding employment legislation, it can be hard to keep up. Offering training and support is an invaluable investment in your business and your workforce – it can make them better managers, Wilson Brown equipped to handle day- Solicitors partner to-day matters and most Jennie Jahina is importantly save you head of the firm’s employment team time and money by avoiding unnecessary issues, cost and potential reputational damage.

The team at Wilson Browne will work with you to create tailored training content that is right for you and your business. By guiding you on the right approach to common employment pitfalls, we can help you to avoid costly employment tribunal claims including unfair dismissal and discrimination.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES • Compliance with the ACAS Code • Suspension - when should you use it?

• Investigation - how to cover all bases • Disciplinary hearing - how to conduct the

hearing and roles • Appeals - how to handle them HANDLING PERFORMANCE • The informal stage – highlighting your concerns • Targets and objectives – how to set them • The formal process – how it works and what to do • Formal sanctions – what is appropriate?

HANDLING ILL-HEALTH ABSENCE • Return to work meetings – should you do them?

• Short term absences – tackling the issue • Long term absences – what can you do?

• The formal process - how it works and what to do • The Equality Act 2010 - what are your duties?

GRIEVANCES • Recognising a grievance • The informal approach – is it appropriate?

• The formal process • Picking the right person for the job • Investigation - how to cover all bases • The grievance hearing – how to conduct the meeting • Appeals - how to handle them REDUNDANCY • When is it a redundancy situation?

• Pools – how to identify the right one

SENDING THE GIFT OF WELLNESS An organisation that provides a healing, happiness and self-care service to support people in their journey through life has had an incredibly busy month.

Wildflowers Healing launched its Mother’s Day ‘Me Time’ gift boxes in March and its self-care Christmas Advent Calendar became available for pre-order during the same month.

Wildflowers also has best-selling pamper boxes for sale and has begun offering relaxation workshops twice a month in Wellingborough.

Owner Ali Mitchell said: “All my products and services are designed to bring about long term, positive change and my customers love the personal touches and ‘I REALLY individualisation of each care package.

“Our Mother’s Day gift boxes and our advent ENJOY WORKING calendars proved incredibly popular and we also offer WITH BUSINESSES a range of holistic therapies such as Reiki, Reflexology, TO ENCOURAGE Aromatherapy, Wellness Coaching and Crystal Healing.

WORKPLACE “I really enjoy working with businesses to encourage WELLNESS’ workplace wellness. I’d love to connect with businesses whose employee wellness is something they are keen to maintain or improve.”

Visit: www.wildflowershealing.com Email: wildflowerhealing3@gmail.com 36 inbusiness APRIL/MAY 2022

• Meaningful consultation – what is it?

• Selection – getting it right • Alternative employment – what should you consider?

• Appeals – should they be offered?

IMPLEMENTING YOUR EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY • The Equality Act 2010 – everyone’s obligations • Protected characteristics – what are they?

• Your organisation’s policy – how to instil it • Discrimination – what is it, the types of discrimination and how to avoid it • Bullying/Harassment – what is it and what process should you use?

• Complaints – what to do when you receive them?

DATA PROTECTION • UK GDPR: What are your obligations?

• What is personal data and your rights to process • What are the special categories of data?

• Privacy notices – what should you be doing?

• Subject access requests – what are they and what should you do?

• Dealing with a personal data breach Contact a member of the Employment Team at Wilson Browne Solicitors on 01604 876697, or employmentlaw@wilsonbrowne.co.uk for a free initial discussion and to find out more.

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MEMBER ZONE

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REDESIGN FOR ONLINE FORUM Growth and development through collaboration and connection have been central to the redesign of Northamptonshire-based online small business community UKBF (UK Business Forums).

Accessing real-time business advice, proven resources and authentic support has now never been easier for the UK’s small and micro business owners since UKBF relaunched its online community earlier this year.

‘IT IS UKBF’s vibrant and easy-to-navigate platform features COMPLETELY essential guides to starting, growing and running a business, FREE TO JOIN whilst UKBF’s active community of over 270,000 company founders readily share their business knowledge and expertise THE UKBF in the themed discussion forums.

COMMUNITY’ Richard Osborne, founder and CEO of UKBF said: “UKBF brings together businesses as diverse as accountancy and HR to dog walking and hospitality. UKBF’s small business community supports one another to reach a common goal. They all want each other to do well and that’s the true spirit behind UKBF. “UKBF started life in 2003 when I felt isolated running my first business and the pandemic made many small business owners feel the same. UKBF is a lifeline giving small business owners round-the-clock support and advice wherever and whenever they need it.”

It is completely free to join the UKBF community to access the discussion forums. Upgrading to UKBF Community Membership from as little as £36 per annum provides a range of small business growth benefits for increased brand visibility including editorial, publicity and PR opportunities.

Richard Osborne

Visit: www.ukbusinessforums.co.uk

NEW FACILITY IS ALL THE RANGE

Teams from BQI Group and Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity enjoying virtual Comedy Bingo

TEAM BUILDING IN SHOW OF SUPPORT FOR HOSPICE Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity was thrilled to hear how the team at BQI Group has benefitted from team-building opportunities since choosing the hospice as its charity of the year, particularly during the pandemic.

Lorraine Brown, HR and office co-ordinator at BQI Group, said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure working alongside the Cynthia Spencer team.

“To have a focus on fundraising for such an amazing charity during the height of the pandemic gave staff a great sense of togetherness, but most importantly it underpinned positive team morale by showing you should never give up just because things are not easy. You can still make a difference.”

BQI got together for virtual quiz and comedy bingo nights as well as getting muddy together

in the Mudnificent 7 mud run event to raise money for the hospice.

The charity’s corporate partnerships fundraiser, Nina Gandy commented: “We love to hear comments like these from the businesses that support us as their charity of the year, and the support we’ve had from BQI has been great.

“To know that they have had fun and grown as a team while supporting the hospice is so rewarding.

“If any businesses want to find out more about partnering with us to support a cause that’s touched the hearts of so many people in our community, I’d love to hear from them.”

Call: 01604 973348 Email: nina@cynthiaspencer.co.uk

A recently refurbished Milton Keynes hotel facility has launched a brand-new driving range.

The Kingfisher Hotel, Golf and Country Club, which is located in the countryside close to Deanshanger, has revealed the purpose built, top of the range GolfX driving range, offering golfers 10 floodlit bays all powered by Toptracer - the most advanced ball tracking technology that captures and displays ball flight in real-time.

Sales manager Sarah Goldsbrough said: “GolfX offers a fun, engaging and tech driven experience that appeals to seasoned players, those improving their game, as well as first-time golfers. It redefines the driving range experience from a functional practice session to an exciting experience for all ages and skill levels.

“We also have additional screens in the range so you can keep your eye on Sky Sports and not miss the big match or golfing championship, as well as a food and drink menu to keep your energy up.”

The Kingfisher Hotel, Golf and Country Club has undergone an extensive refurbishment in recent years.

With ample free parking, 160 acres of outdoor space, 29 comfortable and wellappointed bedrooms, modern and stylish function rooms, gym, bar, and restaurant, all overlooking the Kingfisher Lake it is now a popular location for both business and leisure guests.

Book your GolfX bay online at www.kingfishercountryclub.co.uk

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MEMBER ZONE

MEMBER PROFILE

NAME: Paul Riley COMPANY: Twenty10 Digital Limited

JOB TITLE: Managing Director

WHAT DOES YOUR ORGANISATION DO? Digital print.

HOW DID IT ALL START? Working for someone else and not getting the rewards.

WHAT’S YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR? Meeting my wife at 16 – we’re still together with two talented, hardworking children.

WHAT KEEPS YOU AWAKE AT NIGHT? Nothing.

WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST IN YOUR JOB? The way technology has moved so fast over the last 10 years.

WHAT’S THE BIGGEST RISK YOU’VE EVER TAKEN – AND DID IT WORK? Setting up Twenty10 Digital – well we are still here!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT? If you have a product or a skill believe in yourself and have a go.

WHICH BUSINESS PERSON DO YOU MOST ADMIRE? My first production manager who believed in me.

WHAT EXCITING PROJECTS IS YOUR ORGANISATION WORKING ON? Printing the invites for The National Gallery – on the Raphael Exhibition.

WHAT MADE YOUR ORGANISATION JOIN NORTHAMPTONSHIRE CHAMBER? To meet new people and local businesses. To spread the word Twenty10 Digital is here!

Call: 01604 700166 Email: paul@twenty10-digital.com Visit: paul@twenty10-digital.com

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MEMBER ZONE

MEMBER BENEFITS CHAMBER FX

COMPANY: Towergate Insurance Brokers, Northampton

Exclusive foreign exchange member package offering free health check, low transfer fees and free account opening. Key benefits include bank-beating exchange rates.

JOB TITLE: Account executive

CHAMBER HEALTH PLAN

NAME: Sian Cassie

Provided by Westfield Health, Chamber Primary Health Plan can give members cover from just £5.57 per employee, per month.

CHAMBER AA Chamber members can save up to 63% on roadside assistance for business vehicles in a scheme provided by The AA.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

FOUR ESSENTIAL SERVICES

NEXT GENERATION PROFILE BACKGROUND I moved to Northamptonshire from Cardiff seven years ago after graduating university and I have spent six of these years with Towergate Insurance Brokers. The last 12 months have been busy as I ran my first marathon in Liverpool and rescued a lurcher puppy from Dogs Trust during lockdown. When I’m not working, I’m normally playing the piano, running and drinking gin (although not all at the same time!)

For the opportunity to network with like-minded people, of a similar age across different local industries.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE NEXT GENERATION CHAMBER EVENT AND WHY? Bouncing back from online networking with a faceto-face session and tour of the Sixfields Stadium.

Admittedly, I am not a huge football fan but there was a buzz in the room as people could meet and network again.

WHAT DOES YOUR JOB INVOLVE? My role is to advise businesses on various aspects of commercial insurance. We get to know businesses, find insurance policies and risk management programmes to meet their needs and represent our clients in claims when they need us most.

In our role, the quality of your advice is tested when a business has a problem and supporting people through that process is a challenging but rewarding part of my job.

WHY DID YOU JOIN NEXT GENERATION CHAMBER?

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU’VE LEARNED FROM NEXT GENERATION CHAMBER? I attended a great session about your online and social media presence, particularly on Linkedin. That gave me some skills I immediately put into practice and implemented online – that’s the best example of what a CPD session is all about.

SOCIAL MEDIA CONTACT Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/sian-cassie-dip-cii

There are now four essential services available to Chamber members that will help to protect their business and reputation.

These consist of Chamber HR, Chamber Legal, Chamber Health & Safety and Chamber Tax. All four services are underpinned by one advice line, offering you unlimited access to experienced, specialist advisors covering HR, employment law, legal, health & safety, tax and VAT. Quest also offers a website with a comprehensive library of over 750 documents that are free to download and can be customised to suit the needs of your business, as well as comprehensive legal expenses insurance which covers you for employment disputes, tax investigations, property disputes, data protection and more.

The Chamber is working in partnership with QuestOffice to provide these essential services to our members.

Their contact number is 01455 852037.

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NEWMEMBERS Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome its NEW MEMBERS. Membership offers your business a whole host of support services and ways to connect and network with other companies. Contact the Chamber membership team on 01604 490490 www.northantsfire.gov.uk Fire and Rescue Service covering the county of Northamptonshire

Ask Technologies Ltd KETTERING 07970 232481 www.asktechnologies.co.uk Providing custom software solutions helping businesses grow with technology, making business processes more efficient with automation

Philip M Cooper Author TOWCESTER 07758 238376 www.philipmcooperauthor.com Writer of non-fiction books on traded instruments such as options and currencies as well as poetry, also have several fictional works including political thriller

BLUC Prints WELLINGBOROUGH 07769 708871 www.blucprints.com Local printing services and merchandise printing

S & R Northants Ltd NORTHAMPTON 01604 439480 www.oeh.group Property Development Company

Chester House WELLINGBOROUGH www.chesterhouseestate.org Chester House Estate is a nationally significant heritage site, being one of the few places in the country which can demonstrate over 10,000 years of human activity

SilverDisc Ltd KETTERING 01536 316100 www.silverdisc.co.uk Google Premier Partner, Bing select partner, full service digital agency offering website design, PPC, SEO, social media, email and content marketing

Cransley Hospice Trust KETTERING 01536 452423 www.cransleyhospice.org.uk Cransley Hospice provides care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses Crouchers Limited MILTON KEYNES 01908 597047 www.crouchers-accountants.co.uk Chartered accountants and business advisors CULT Marketing 07538 388916 www.cult-marketing.co.uk Digital Marketing Consultant providing expert advice and outsourced marketing solutions to help companies grow

environment, progression for young professionals working in the hospitality trade EleXion Water Treatment LTD BOURNEMOUTH 01256 587800 www.elexion.uk No chemical cocktails, no complicated formulas, just 100% natural chemistry

EB Designs Limited LAMPORT 01604 686755 www.ebdesignsgroup.com EB Designs is a UK-based multinational business operating worldwide, offering a variety of services for the retail, commercial and hospitality sectors

Emerald Transport Limited LONDON 07309 731039 We provide domestic freight transport. Our trucks carry goods from shippers and suppliers to distributors, retailers and other end users

Electric Pavilion NORTHAMPTON 01604 620621 www.electricpavilion.co.uk Restaurant/cocktail bar that focuses on quality, healthy work

Geoffrey Leaver Solicitors MILTON KEYNES 01908 692769 www.geoffreyleaver.com Providing solutions to your legal issues

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Great Central Plastics DAVENTRY 01327 264277 www.greatcentralplastics.com Have been designing and manufacturing high quality plastic injection moulded products for both the promotional and automotive industry since 1998 Kingsfield IT NORTHAMPTON 01604 643888 www.kingsfieldit.com Elevating IT in the public sector Naturally Tribal Skincare Ltd MILTON KEYNES 01908635014 www.naturallytribalgroup.com Natural and chemical free skincare products. Ancient remedies for today's families Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service NORTHAMPTON 01604 797123

The Oasis Project (The Gambia) BLETCHLEY 07710 625202 hwww.theoasisproject.org Humanitarian charity in Gambia.

The prevention or relief of poverty for sustainable change in areas of health, education and environment issues Villiers Hotel Limited BUCKINGHAM 01280 822444 www.villiers-hotel.co.uk Villiers Hotel is a 400-year-old Historical Hotel situated in the heart of Buckingham Town. We offer contemporary meetings, conference space and afternoon tea Workpays Limited KETTERING 0800 1979 826 www.workpays.co.uk A training provider working with businesses and individuals to deliver bespoke training programmes, leading to recognised accredited qualifications Workplace Cleaning Solutions NORTHAMPTON 01604 791799 www.wpcs.cleaning Commercial cleaning provider, covering Northamptonshire

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