inbusiness Northamptonshire Dec 22 Jan 23

inbusiness

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NORTHAMPTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Waterside House, 8 Waterside Way, Northampton NN4 7XD

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EDITOR: Clare Brennan

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VIEWPOINT

TIME TO LOOK BACK

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FRONT COVER: Jevgenij Lyzko, Chief Executive of MANNOL UK See pages 28-29

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ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE: in business 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.

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AND LOOK FORWARD

Our Chamber is a rich tapestry of talent –shaped by innovation, creativity and ambition.

We’re bold, diverse and we’re dynamic –coming together at many of our events to connect, collaborate and celebrate our unique achievements.

At the glittering Northamptonshire Business Awards which were held in November we were able to recognise the very best Northamptonshire has to offer –celebrating with, and rewarding, exceptional people who have helped to shape our community into a beacon of business excellence.

It really was a remarkable evening, and I would like to congratulate all of the winners and everyone who took the time to enter. I would also like to offer my heartfelt thanks to the amazing team who helped to make it all possible. I’m already looking forward to next year!

With awards season almost at an end, many of us will be looking ahead to Christmas and the start of another new year.

While challenges will, undoubtedly lie ahead for all of us, I believe we can look to the future with a great sense of optimism.

A new year brings with it a chance to reflect and reset, renew our partnerships and build exciting plans for the future.

At the Chamber, the new year will see the launch of our new inbusiness magazine –merging the Northamptonshire and MK editions of our flagship publication.

The magazine is already in development –look out for it coming your way in February.

In the meantime, on behalf of everyone at the Chamber, I would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous new year.

All best wishes,

Louise Wall CEO, Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER BUSINESS PARTNERS

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

The world’s first virtual therapy centre has opened in Northampton allowing people with a variety of conditions to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Created by Rebecca Gill, VR Therapies on Spencer Parade in Northampton has allowed hundreds of people to unlock the awesome power of virtual reality – allowing them to relive experiences from the past, tick off items on their bucket list or use it to develop new skills.

Rebecca said: “The first year has been incredible and we have already done so much. My crazy dream of combining hydrotherapy with underwater VR worked and the benefits of VR are so great that I’ve opened a whole centre dedicated to it.

“Among my favourite memories from the past year are helping one elderly man to relive his boxing days by getting back in the ring, and his

son telling me this was the first time he'd seen his Dad smile since his Mum passed away six months ago.

“We helped one teenager with autism overcome his phobia of eating in public allowing him to go to a cafe with his friends for the first time and we supported one boy with agoraphobia and mental health issues to develop his confidence and interest in the outside world leading him to leave the house for the first time this year.

“We also helped one lady with dementia tick off her bucket list by taking her on a virtual wildlife safari in Africa – and a lion even jumped on the bonnet which she loved!”

Everyone is welcome to pop into VR Therapies to find out more. You can also visit vrtherapies.co.uk for more information.

Inspiration FM, NLive Radio, Revolution Radio, and Embrace Radio have come together to jointly bid for the local DAB MUX which is currently open for applications.

The joint bid will see the stations form Northampton DAB a new community-based organisation to bid for, and operate what is known as a small scale DAB (SSDAB) MUX which will enable all those stations and many more broadcast across the town.

If successful it will enable all these stations and more to broadcast on

Martin Steers, Station Manager of NLive Radio, said: “It’s great that we’ve managed to bring the stations together with a single purpose, I hope it’s a start of a good positive relationship which may lead to other opportunities of collaboration.”

The application process is being managed by regulator Ofcom and an announcement is due after Christmas. Anyone

find out more is encouraged to head to northamptondab.co.uk

Exciting plans that will revolutionise the way we listen to radio in Northamptonshire are being put forward by a number of community radio stations.

DAB across the Northampton area, serving the local are with local radio services and securing a DAB future for these stations.

Stephen James, founder of Return On Incentives

REWARDS WILL DRIVE SUCCESS

Revolutionising the way loyalty and rewards can be used to drive business growth is the aim of new Chamber members, Return On Incentives (ROI).

The company aims to change the way business think about loyalty campaigns and reward programmes, empowering them to create their own campaigns without having to worry about heavy development costs.

Founder Stephen James explained: “I spent a long time in the corporate world trying to get loyalty and rewards to work.

“On one side you have to work out how to create genuine returns, while the other side is fighting with inflexible platforms that just aren’t right for every case out there. What we are doing with ROI is creating huge flexibility, the likes of which is hard to find off the shelf.

“After years of thinking, ‘it can’t be that hard or expensive to make this fit,’ it became time to just build it and show the world that you can create bespoke, personal experiences for people, without breaking the bank.”

To find out more about how ROI could help you to grow your business, visit www.returnonincentives.co.uk or call 01536 609637.

ENERGY PRICES FUEL

RENEWABLES

Fears about rising energy prices have led to a surge in sales for Corby-based renewable energy company, Marlec.

Since it was first released in 2015, 90,000 of Marlec’s Solar iBoost+ units have been installed by homeowners who have a rooftop PV system and a hot water cylinder or thermal store.

The innovative Solar iBoost+ enables homeowners to consume excess energy generated by their solar panels and divert the energy to their immersion heater.

This simple system works automatically and heats the water throughout the day, reducing the need to heat water via traditional methods such as grid electricity, gas or oil.

Electricians and PV installers are also choosing the Solar iBoost+ due to its simple and intuitive design making it simple to fit, generally in under 30 minutes. Considering the increases in the price of electricity, installing a Solar iBoost+ could pay for itself within a year.

Solar iBoost+ is available as a trade-only product through many national electrical wholesalers and PV equipment stockists. Details of these stockists can be found at www.marlec.co.uk/product/solariboost

If you are already offering the Solar iBoost+ to your customers, you can also be added to the online database of over 1,000 UK approved installers by contacting sales@marlec.co.uk with your company details.

Marlec is the UK’s longest established renewable energy company with nearly 45 years’ experience within the industry.

For more information visit www.marlec.co.uk

A lot has changed since Working Solutions Recruitment first opened its doors 25 years ago.

Despite seeing many changes along the way, the company continues to go from strength to strength and is committed to placing the right people in the right roles.

Managing Director Sheelagh Ratcliffe (pictured) said: “The way we recruit has changed incredibly over the past 25 years. With modern technology at our fingertips and access to the latest reporting on salary benchmarking and industry expectations as recruitment consultants we can offer more support than ever to companies looking to build their team.

“When we first opened our doors

hiring managers would receive a paper copy of a candidate’s CV via fax machine and almost all interviews were conducted in person. As the world around has modernised – so has recruitment.

“Recruiters now liaise with candidates on LinkedIn, share their CVs via email and can conduct the interview process entirely virtually!

Technology has allowed the modern recruiter access to a much wider range of candidates, this paired with the onset of hybrid working has meant companies can now recruit a truly diverse workforce.”

For more information about Working Solutions Recruitment visit www.wsrs.co.uk

A PASSPORT TO ENGAGEMENT

Young people will find it easier to express their feelings and monitor their progress through Northampton Saints Foundation’s Engage programme, thanks to an ePassport created in partnership with the University of Northampton (UON).

The university has worked alongside Northampton Saints Foundation to create the ePassport using interactive online platform, Padlet, making it easier for young people to talk to those around them about their progress and monitor their success.

Operating from five hubs around Northamptonshire, Milton Keynes and Ipswich, the Engage programme supports young people who are disengaged from mainstream education and in need of additional support to regain control of their academic pathway.

Emma Whewell, associate professor in learning and teaching and deputy head of subject in sport and exercise at UON, has been working on the project with colleague Alison Power, associate professor in learning and teaching. She said: “We are very excited about how this project is developing and how enthusiastically the young people

involved have engaged with it. The children on the Engage programme are in alternative provision education designed to support their self-efficacy, educational outcomes and future prospects.

“The digital ePassport will reap many benefits for vulnerable young people to better understand their

emotions and, we hope, journey back to mainstream education.

Jordan Letts, head of foundation and social inclusion lead said: “It has been fantastic to work with Alison and Emma on this project. The passport has developed over the past four academic years and provided us with key statistical

The ePassport is available using an interactive platform called Padlet

data to enhance the progressions of our young people.

“When we were approached by the university, we were thrilled at the idea of making it more accessible and enjoyable for our young people who find it difficult to write their feelings and emotions on paper.”

CONTRACT WILL TAKE FIRM EVEN HIRE!

A recruitment firm in Northamptonshire has been selected by a global engineering company to lead its recruitment processes.

SSI Schaefer Ltd, which operates across six continents and has more than 10,500 employees, has entered into a Recruitment Process Outsource (RPO) agreement with Kettering based Wills Consultants Ltd.

The agreement sees Wills Consultants manage and enhance the end-to-end sourcing and recruitment strategy for permanent and contract operation roles across all UK sites.

Andy Wightman, managing director UK at SSI Schaefer, commented: “We work with very large brands, meaning we sometimes manage and deliver projects worth millions of pounds to our customers.

“We require peace of mind that our employees have had the very best hiring experience from the initial source through to post engagement. It is essential that we partner with a company that shares our core values when hiring and Wills Consultants has shown that it can improve our acquisition function.”

Simon Wills, director at Wills Consultants Ltd, added: “Finding the right talent for SSI Schaefer is crucial and the work we have done

together over the last year has proven to be highly successful with a 100 per cent placement record, despite the pandemic challenges and lockdowns.

“We are providing a concierge management

account service and are looking forward to working together more and seeing this partnership promote the hiring manager experience and heighten candidate steadfastness with the brand.”

‘THE DIGITAL EPASSPORT WILL REAP MANY BENEFITS FOR VULNERABLE YOUNG PEOPLE’

Andy Wightman (left) and Simon Wills

LAURA JOINS GROWING TEAM

The team at PR and reputation management company, Goldings Communications, has continued to grow with the exciting appointment of PR account manager, Laura Mills.

Laura, a highly-skilled communications professional, has previously held a number of PR and marketing management positions in the public sector, and worked more recently as a freelance communications specialist.

She is now delighted to be joining Kim Hughes and the team at Goldings Communications - a Northampton-based PR partner which specialises in supporting organisations which make a social or environmental impact.

Laura said: “I love working with businesses to help them to raise their profile and communicate more effectively, so this role is perfect for me. I have already had the chance to work on a variety of PR projects with some of Goldings Communications incredible clients, and there is lots more to come.”

Kim Hughes, director of Goldings Communications, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Laura to our growing team. She will help us expand our four key services; targeted media relations, awards submissions, crisis communications and strategic storytelling, and her wealth of experience is already proving invaluable as we continue to develop.”

For more information visit www.goldings-comms.co.uk

A Northampton store, which has been selling kitchens and bathrooms in the town for more than 120 years, has opened a brand new Contract Specification Suite for contractors and property developers.

The store on Kingsthorpe Road has invested £25k in setting up the specialist suite to meet the very specific needs of property developers and contractors and will offer exclusive contract pricing on its quality kitchen and bathroom brands.

The suite will showcase a wide range of kitchen and bathroom products from kitchen furniture and sanitaryware to brassware and shower systems to those working in the construction and property sectors.

After making an appointment, contractors can use a private room to consider the wide variety of options and talk them through with a member of the contracts team.

Dave Richardson, director for Bell of Northampton, said: “We felt the need to create a Contract Specification Suite as contractors don’t tend to require large showroom displays but do need space to look through a range of different options and get a look and feel for them.

“It also gives contractors access to a dedicated meeting room, where we can talk through multiple plots and pricing, giving them the privacy, time and space to make a well-informed decision about which products best suit their project.”

The Contract Specification Suite is now open from Monday to Friday between 9am to 5pm and can be visited by appointment only.

For more information and to book an appointment, email contracts@abell.co.uk

20-YEAR PARTY? PIZZA CAKE!

Technology merchandise supplier USB2U treated staff to a pizza party to celebrate 20 years of trading.

The company’s new office and warehouse on Moulton Park was the venue for the party on 3 October to mark USB2U’s important milestone.

Among those invited to the event, was founding member Phil Battison who joined managing director Sebastian La Porta in reflecting how far the business had come – from selling technology products to consumers from a garage to a market-leading B2B technology merchandise supplier.

Sebastian La Porta, managing director, said: “I am incredibly proud of everything USB2U has achieved over the past 20 years. The business has adapted to the phenomenal change in technology and buyer behaviour during this time, thanks to the direction of our management team and the tremendous effort of all our staff. I

want to take this opportunity to thank our team for their hard work in making the business the success that it is today. I am looking forward to seeing what the next 20 years holds for USB2U.”

Throughout the day, staff and visitors were presented with gifts to mark the occasion. Visitors left with goody bags filled with the latest in promotional merchandise,

including USB2U’s best-selling branded power bank the Pro 10000, and everyone’s favourite selfie accessory, the Promotional Ring Light. A playlist from 2002 was playing and staff and visitors shared memories together over pizza, cake and a few drinks.

For more information visit www.usb2u.co.uk

Laura Mills, PR account manager at Goldings Communications

USB2U’s team celebrate the company’s 20th anniversary

LENSES FIRM LOOKS TO FUTURE AFTER 50 YEARS

Fifty years of innovation have been celebrated by staff at Northampton-based company, David Thomas Contact Lenses Ltd.

The company, which is part of Menicon Ltd, has been marking its milestone by looking back at 50 years at the cutting edge of contact lens manufacturing.

Kevin J Mitchell, managing director of Menicon Ltd, said: “It’s safe to say that a lot has changed in the last 50 years. Change and time certainly have a funny way of creeping up on you and I’m probably not the only one who still gets an odd feeling when you watch a movie from years gone by and it mentions the ‘2020s’ as being ridiculously far off in the future.

“However, here we are almost in 2023 – the actual future! And what a special year it has been as David Thomas Contact Lenses Ltd celebrated its 50th anniversary.

“Fifty years of being at the cutting edge of contact lens manufacturing, driving innovation and helping people live their lives to the fullest.

“David Thomas Ltd has been part of Menicon Ltd since 2009 and this year is actually a double celebration with Menicon marking 70 years at the forefront of

global contact lens manufacturing. We’re incredibly proud to be enjoying this double milestone. The David Thomas brand and heritage remains as strong as ever with many of our long-standing customers, both local and further afield, continuing to order our industryleading products. Here’s to the next 50!”

KARL’S CAREER IS REALLY ADDING UP

Karl Hobbins (pictured) has become one of the Equity Partners at Kettering-based CFW Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers.

ACCA-qualified Karl first joined CFW a decade ago and has since become a valuable member of the practice team, working with family run businesses and specialising in accounting systems and controls; being a champion of digital transformation and the transition to cloud accounting.

His career began after he qualified as a chartered certified accountant in 2010, became a fellow in 2015, joined CFW Accountants in 2011 as an accounts and audit senior and was appointed as an associate partner in 2019.

Karl said: “This is a great opportunity for me and comes at a time when companies across the region are transforming the way they do business and need sound advice. Today’s accountancy practices offer so much more and our focus on using business technology to streamline processes has been embraced by many of our clients.”

For more information visit www.cfwaccountants.co.uk

‘50 YEARS AT THE FOREFRONT OF GLOBAL CONTACT LENS MANUFACTURING’

Kevin J Mitchell,

managing director of Menicon Ltd

CLUB IS A PLACE TO TRADE INFORMATION

COACHES

OFFER FREE CONSULTS

As part of their commitment to supporting local businesses, Business Mechanisms Coaching and Consulting are offering a free 30-minute no obligation consultation for Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce members.

This is a limited opportunity to explore BMCC’s expertise and seek some professional advice or guidance.

Director Sarah-Louise Isaacson said: “Whether you have a business development idea you wish to discuss, a risk management issue, or you just want to find out more, the choice is yours.

“If Business Mechanisms Coaching and Consulting can support you further then they will create a package to suit you, your needs and your time frame.”

Use the online booking system at https://thebmcc.co.uk/#contact to select a convenient date and time for Robert or Sarah to call you. Alternatively, email hello@thebmcc.co.uk or call 01933 38 46 47 / 07774 57 58 30.

A new ‘club’ for sharing information within the construction industry was launched recently to mark National Tradesmen Day.

The Construction Club, created by Parm Bhangal of My Build Estimate, is a WhatsApp group consisting of 171 builders, homeowners, and property developers.

It provides a place for people to communicate and ask questions about the construction industry and building projects. Participants can compare costs, share best practice and offer networking opportunities.

Parm Bhangal said: “We speak to builders, homeowners and property developers every day, but we often found that they weren’t able to communicate with each other. There simply wasn’t an easy, practical way to do that.

“It became clear there was a real need for a forum where they could informally ask questions of each other, gauge opinions and communicate in a way which moves the industry forward.

“With our contacts and knowledge of the industry, here at My Build Estimate we were in the ideal position to set up this WhatsApp group and allow

participants to easily reach out to each other with questions, ideas and networking opportunities.

“We’ve seen numerous people helped through the group already. A problem which could perhaps have been causing a costly and

stressful headache for one person, is easily remedied with a quick piece of advice from another.”

For more information, and to find out how to join the Construction Club, visit mybuildestimate.co.uk

LAW FIRM EARNS TOP TIER ACCOLADE

Law firm Howes Percival has been awarded a top tier ranking for 10 legal specialisms and recommended for 23 more in the 2023 edition of The Legal 500.

The guide, which is based on independent research, interviews and feedback from clients about the service they receive from firms and lawyers, also recognises the UK's leading lawyers –77 Howes Percival lawyers received specific mentions in this year's directory.

Howes Percival has achieved top tier rankings for:

•Corporate and Commercial

•Dispute ResolutionCommercial Litigation

•Dispute Resolution - Debt Recovery

•Finance - Insolvency and Corporate Recovery

•Human Resources - Employment

•Private Client - Tax, Trusts and Probate

•Real Estate - Commercial Property

•Real Estate - Environment & Planning

•Real Estate - Property litigation

•Intellectual Property

A further 12 Howes Percival specialisms are recommended in the guide; Agriculture and

Estates, Banking and Finance, Charities and Not for Profit, Construction, Contentious Trusts and Probate, Family, Licensing, Public Sector, IT and Telecoms, Media and Entertainment, Health and Safety, and Social Housing.

The Legal 500 highlights individuals who have received constant praise from their clients for continued excellence. A total of 23 Howes Percival lawyers are recognised by the legal directory as ‘leading individuals’, with nine partners achieving ‘Hall of Fame’ status.

Chairman Geraint Davies said: “I’m delighted with this set of rankings and recommendations, which recognise our core strengths and reflect the ongoing investment we’ve made in our people and their development in recent years.

“We have expanded our expertise across all of our service lines and are committed to growing and investing in each of our locations. Howes Percival’s culture and the calibre of work we undertake allow us to attract top talent which, alongside our commitment to our training programme creates an unbeatable team.”

Howes Percival’s chairman Geraint Davies

The end of a year is when we all make time for reviewing the past 12 months. It’s the natural point to reflect and take stock of where you want to be. One thing you certainly will be looking at is your sales planning - but are you seeing the whole picture?

Most businesses will either have December or March as their year end and, by the time they get to that point, they will have a years’ worth of data and metrics. It is invaluable information and should help you with sales for the coming year. So why do I often get called in to help salespeople hit targets just months later?

Part of the problem is that business owners sometimes focus solely on statistics. They are important of course, but do you also look at what the sales numbers could be telling you about your team? Dig deep and pull out the story that is hiding behind the numbers. If your team did not perform as expected, could it be a training issue? If one area is doing well, what is causing it? What are those figures telling you?

Numbers are easy to work with to produce a formula set of sales targets. The problem is that does not address the wider context. if you shift your perspective to ‘what support do my salespeople need to meet their targets based on the numbers from last year?’ you may find they do hit them, and then go on to do it every year.

To discuss how Julie can help you contact her at julie@thesalesace.co.uk or call 01604 532004

Julie Futcher

BUSINESS PARTNERS

ACCOUNTANT TAKES EARLY RETIREMENT

After

Peter joined the firm’s Northampton office as trainee in 1989 and qualified as a chartered accountant in 1993. He became a chartered tax adviser in 1996 and was made partner in 1999.

He said: “After more than 30 years, I have decided it’s time for a new adventure and I’m looking forward to a much-needed change of pace! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Moore and have had the pleasure of working with some incredible colleagues and clients.

“I’m very fortunate to be able to retire early, which is only possible because we have such a strong team in place, and I know that I’ll be leaving my clients and the firm in good hands.”

Managing partner Nick Bairstow said: “Pete has made an enormous contribution to the firm over the past 33 years and will be much missed.

“The whole team at Moore wish him a very long and happy retirement and all the best for the future.”

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

OWNERS LEARN THE POWER OF PEOPLE

Business owners were able to create a transformational people plan for their workforce in the first ever business workshop of its kind in Northamptonshire.

The one-day People Plan seminar, delivered by HR Solutions, saw entrepreneurs explore the key employment areas affecting their business and then create an achievable, useful strategy to take away, in the new, pioneering project.

HR Solutions trainers Terry Hayward and Victoria Templeton –both qualified, chartered members of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Developmentworked with delegates to tackle critical questions such as:

• Do you know what the biggest challenges and risks are facing your business?

• Do you know how you can get your people to reach their full potential to maximise their contribution to the business?

• Do you know that a strategic people plan can transform your organisation?

The delegates completed a workbook throughout the day, as well as participated in group discussions. Each person’s answers formed a tailored, strategically focussed, people plan specific to each business, which they were able to take away.

In his role as HR and Training Consultant at HR Solutions, Terry uses his extensive knowledge and

20 years’ experience to support his own dedicated client base, and to develop, implement and roll out a wide range of Management Development training.

Victoria has 25 years’ experience in Human Resource Management having worked in HR outsourcing, financial services and insurance, the travel industry and education. She is HR Knowledge Manager at HR Solutions and is responsible for HR content management.

Victoria said: “The People Plan workshop was a huge success, with delegates from large corporations and SMEs, with a mix of clients and prospects in attendance

“The event helps businesses to identify their key challenges and risks as well as provides practical guidance on how to create a strategically focussed people plan, which can be instrumental in your company’s success when done correctly.

“We want to help people to transform their organisation through maximising their people potential.”

The People Plan workshop is suitable for business leaders, those working in HR as well as those involved in strategy and project management. The next one will be held on…

For more information about upcoming HR Solutions seminars visit www.hrsolutions-uk.com/ upcoming-seminars

a career spanning more than 33 years, Northamptonshire accountant Peter Simons has retired from his role at Moore East Midlands.

‘I KNOW THAT I’LL BE LEAVING MY CLIENTS AND THE FIRM IN GOOD HANDS’

Peter Simons who has retired from Northamptonshire accountancy firm, Moore East Midlands

BUSINESSES URGED TO BACK CHARITY

A Northamptonshire charity is calling for companies and individuals to sponsor their surprise Christmas hampers so they can bring festive comfort and cheer to adult cancer patients.

For the sixth year in a row, The Lewis Foundation – which provides free gifts and support packs to patients in Northampton, Kettering and Three Shires Hospitals all year round –will be on hand delivering hampers in the lead up to Christmas.

The sponsored hampers will be gifted to people in their homes and on the wards, and will be packed full of festive treats and essential items from Waitrose.

Lorraine said: “Our Christmas hamper campaign has only ever had one main objective –to bring a smile to adult cancer patients who are going through a difficult time.

“The people that we deliver the Christmas hampers to are always really surprised and can get very emotional. A lot of patients say that they can’t afford the luxuries lots of us take for granted at Christmas, so they are always very grateful and happy to receive the gifts. They can never believe the hampers are free, and that’s thanks to the support from the business community.”

For more information, or to donate to the Christmas hamper campaign or volunteer, visit www.thelewisfoundation.co.uk/ christmas2022 or email hello@thelewisfoundation.co.uk

COUPLE’S TRAVEL FIRM IS REALLY TAKING OFF

As the latest name in travel, Thomas Travel – run by husband and wife team Kim and David Thomas – is really taking off.

Thomas Travel is an independent travel agency, fully protected by ABTA and ATOL, offering major hotel brands such as Hilton and Marriott, flights, cruises, car parking, excursions, theatre tickets, major event tickets and much, much more.

Thomas Travel works with each of its customers to find their dream location – helping them to save money by building bespoke holidays for each client.

As well as domestic customers, Thomas Travel can help businesses find the best rates possible when booking multiple hotel nights whether they are looking for stay overs for events, customer visits or rooms for service teams.

David and Kim really look forward to working with you in the future and providing you with amazing holiday solutions at prices which enable you to experience more.

You can contact Thomas Travel by calling 07891 601984 or by emailing thomasfamily543@gmail.com

EXPERTS PROVIDE A PLAN FOR ACTION

An event held at the Marriott Hotel in Northampton has offered support to local firms to help them weather the current economic storm and come out of it in a stronger financial position.

The Quarterly Planning Day event, run by Northamptonshire finance experts N-Accounting, was part of a series of workshops created to equip business owners with the information needed to grow a profitable business and provide a 13-week action plan to achieve goals.

The day covered how to build customer avatars, success stories from quarter three (Q3) and a reflection on areas a business should focus on in order to grow and scale, as well as objectives and actions needed for the next quarter.

It also included interactive sessions from recruitment expert Eileen Pacey, who took to the floor to talk about how successful businesses are currently growing their teams and attracting the best candidates, as well as serial entrepreneur Dipesh Patel, who guided guests through the various businesses he has run and how he found the winning formula.

N-Accounting managing director Nishi Patel added: “Our Quarterly Planning Days are a great opportunity to bring a team together and get focussed on your goals.

“Business leaders must take chances to work on their business rather than it in and we provide that opportunity with guided support, allowing entrepreneurs to network with likeminded people, prioritise development needs and form achievable goals.”

The next Quarterly Planning Day takes place on Wednesday, December 7 at the same venue and will see management consultant Mhairi Richardson facilitate a session on how to create a management team, so you can focus on business development instead of firefighting.

Tickets cost £45 + VAT per attendee. For more information visit www.n-accounting.co.uk or call 01604 330129.

Entrepreneur Daniel Lockeron will also be a guest speaker at the event, telling the inspirational story of how he went from a one-man band to the head of an eco business with more than 15 people in the team in just four years.

Nishi Patel presents the workshop

Kim and David Thomas have recently launched Thomas Travel

ADVICE FOR SURVIVING THE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN

While the Bank of England has not officially predicted a recession, rampant inflation and sharp rises in living costs are already taking their toll on the economy.

But a study of published in the Harvard Business Review found that nine per cent of companies flourished financially, outperforming competitors and growing profits. While companies that cut costs faster and deeper were less likely to survive.

But Elisha Dignam of CULT Marketing advises it’s not business as usual. Here’s her advice:

REFOCUS YOUR MARKETING STRATEGY AND TARGETING

To maximise opportunity, companies should refocus their marketing plans to suit the current climate. If you don't have a

marketing strategy, create one and review your messaging.

FOCUS ON RETAINING EXISTING CUSTOMERS

When a recession occurs, everyone feels it, so switch your focus on how you can help your customers rather than selling to them. Improving communication and providing help will build loyalty.

DO NOT CUT YOUR MARKETING BUDGET

When things get tough, the first budget cut is often marketing. However, this is a mistake that costs many businesses in the long term. Try this instead:

1.Review short-term tactical spend – If you’re in an industry impacted by lower consumer

spending, you may benefit from pulling back on performance marketing spend in the shortterm, however, do not turn off ROI-generating advertising.

2.Focus on long-term brandbuilding activities – A brand is not built overnight. Yet removing budget from brand-building activities will cause harm in the longer term. Show your customers you're there for them

when they’re ready.

3.Focus on operational efficiencies – Cost savings may be necessary during a recession, but instead of cutting budgets, focus on where there can be efficiencies company-wide.

Need help with your marketing strategy or delivery? Contact Elisha Dignam at CULT Marketing at hello@cult-marketing.co.uk

PUBLISHERS SET TO CO-HOST EXHIBITIONS

The publishers of leading business newspapers Business Times and Business MK have added a new string to the company’s bow after agreeing a partnership with the organiser of two major annual business exhibitions.

Pulse Group Media, which also publishes the lifestyle magazines MK Pulse and NN Pulse, has joined forces with Your Business Expo and will co-host exhibitions in Northamptonshire.

“Joining forces to organise these exhibitions is a logical bolt-on to our current publishing business in print and online,” says Pulse Goup Media director Kerry LewisStevenson. “There is so much synergy with what we are already expert in and, in the current climate, diversification into a complementary sector makes an awful lot of sense.”

Your Business Expo is run by Sheila Smith. She launched a networking group back in 2010, from which evolved the Northamptonshire Business Expo. It continues to attract dozens of exhibitors from all over Northamptonshire and beyond and has enabled Sheila to launch

“We have known Sheila Smith for some time and know that she is hugely respected in the exhibition sphere,” says Kerry. “When the opportunity came up to team up with her on the exhibitions, we felt it was a chance not to pass up.”

Sheila will continue to contribute to the expos as a consultant.

Business Expos elsewhere in the UK, including in Leicester.

Elisha Dignam, CEO and Marketing Consultant at CULT Marketing

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson and Sheila Smith

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

CUSTOMS

SWITCHES TO DIGITAL

Declaration Service (CDS) is the new longterm replacement for the current CHIEF (Customs Handling Imports and Export Freight) platform - replacing a system based on paperwork with a digital platform.

Customs Agents will need to learn the CDS Data Elements and completion rules, which will completely replace the now obsolete Single Administrative Document SAD form, or C88, the Electronic Accompanying Document EAD and all the old reports such as the E2 or the S8.

CHIEF closed its e-doors for import declarations on 30 September 2022, and will close for export declarations on 31 March 2023.

Chamber Customs instructors are handson and have been busy at the forefront of CDS testing and

closely with HMRC, software developers and CSPs. They are amongst the first agents in the UK to submit live import and export declarations on CDS.

Chamber Customs are now offering a fourday Customs Clearance Agent training course is dedicated to customs agents who need to learn about completing import and export custom declarations in CDS.

The training is instructor led and delivered online with a remote package comprising e-learning modules, four days of practical classroom, simulations, and access to postcourse examples and support. The is no previous knowledge required for the course.

The modules include theory framework of Customs Declarations, a full explanation of all Data Elements of CDS declaration and post clearance activities.

By the end of the training, delegates will be able to understand the systems and actors involved in a Customs Declaration and different customs regimes.

They will also be able to apply the correct customs procedure to a given scenario, explain the impact of different representation types on the parties and use the tariff to understand the measures applicable to a commodity.

Finally, the course will enable participants to declare measures on a customs entry, file a customs declaration as per a given scenario and amend incorrectly filed customs declarations.

The course is structured in an Export Module and an Import Module and is interactive training with plenty of space for practical application. You will have the opportunity to practice inputting declarations on the training system, working from set scenarios with the instructors’ support.

For those who would like to become a Customs Clearance – Accredited Agent, The British Chambers of Commerce has defined a formal syllabus and developed a formal qualification specific for Customs Agents. It’s the first specific customs clearance exam in the country. The exam is externally certified by APMG; a UKAS recognised, international accreditation body.

For more information visit www.chambercustoms.co.uk/trainingcourses customs/cds-customs-clearance-agent-training

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

In this issue we look at the LOGISTICS, FREIGHT & TRANSPORTATION, RECRUITMENT & HR and FOOTWEAR & LEATHER sectors in the Northamptonshire area

Helicopters supplied by Sloane Helicopters in Sywell will soon be helping to save lives of children across the nation.

The company, which is the UK’s longest established, privatelyowned helicopter company recently acquired the contract for the Children’s Air Ambulance. It will be supplying the charity with two EMS AW169 helicopters later this year, together with pilots and aircraft maintenance.

Having commenced operations in March 2022, the service is currently operating with an EMS AW109SP GrandNew in the interim period prior to introducing the

bigger AW169s later this year.

Having already fostered an established relationship with The Air Ambulance Service (TAAS), spanning over 23 years, Sloane also operates a turnkey solution for the Charity in the form of two AW109SPs with a dedicated back-up aircraft for its local Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) operations.

With the company’s extensive AW109 HEMS expertise, the introduction of this contract is an excellent step forward for Sloane’s operations by expanding into the AW169 HEMS sector. The addition of these helicopters

supports Sloane’s growing HEMS fleet which has doubled in size over the past four years, including two new AW109SP EMS helicopters delivered early in 2021.

Founded more than 51 years ago by its current Chairman, David George, Sloane Helicopters is a leading European onshore helicopter company providing a full suite of aviation services.

As the sole UK and Ireland Distributor and authorised Service Centre for Leonardo Helicopters for more than 27 years, Sloane has developed an unrivalled close partnership with the manufacturer and is renowned for its expertise with Leonardo products.

For more information visit www.sloanehelicopters.com

LSG IS THE PLACE FOR STORAGE SOLUTIONS

The team at Logistics Solutions Group (LSG) are very firmly in the driving seat when it comes to finding warehouse storage solutions for their clients – fast.

Whether their clients are looking to find a use for spare capacity or need extra storage space the company is ideally placed to find solutions that best suit their needs.

Director Danielle Wykes said: “As a business we are relentlessly caring. We don’t stop working at pace until we get you the storage solution that bests suits your need, every time. To us, that epitomises what the logistics industry stands for. It’s this

approach that has led to the team’s success to this point. We love the challenge of finding on-demand, flexible warehouse storage solutions at pace every day, while providing a right-first-time solution.”

Since launching in 2019, LSG has gone from strength to strength. After a period of rapid growth Danielle says she looking forward to making some exciting changes in the business ready for the next stage in its development.

She said: “We are investing in new systems, databases, training and people and we are looking forward to 2023 being the year

that we welcome a wide range of new types of client into the fold. “We are also feeling very proud to have received nominations for two Northampton Logistics Awards for Team of the Year and Small Logistics Company of the Year.

“It’s been a tough time over the last few years in logistics and we are very much looking forward to celebrating the resilience that the industry has shown with some truly inspirational people.”

For more information, visit www.Logistics-SolutionsGroup.com

Danielle Wykes

Artemis is a Northampton based employer that really looks after their people.

Our clients are insurers and major corporate companies.

Working here is fun. Our culture is one of inclusion and collaboration.

You will be supported, mentored, and challenged to be the very best version of yourself.

We are accredited by ISO9001 and CIOB and we provide an exceptional platform for progression.

We are looking for surveyors, claims handlers, and support staff.

SPECIALIST TO OFFER MENTORING

It has been a busy year for Acanthus Management Limited, which has moved to a new office and formalised a new service in 2022.

After 14 years of offering outsourced HR services to clients in Northamptonshire and surrounding area, director Maggie Halsall (pictured) has officially begun offering mentorship to clients.

She said: “Although I’ve been a mentor and critical friend for my clients for a while, 2022 saw me formalising my offer. The discipline sits comfortably beside my generalist HR and performance management work and as a result, the business has matured in a different way to previous years, with the support of existing and new clients alike.”

Supporting business owners on their corporate journey has also given Maggie the impetus to review her own personal and business goals, as well as personal development plans.

Maggie added: “The year hasn’t been all work though. Other than putting the finishing touches on my new office, seeing people in a social setting has meant that when people relax and start to chat, you both realise that a critical friend can really help focus the mind and make a tangible difference.

For more information, contact Maggie on 07799 251852 or email maggie@acanthus-management.co.uk

An exciting employee performance programme which enables small business owners to work with their employees and help them to achieve their goals is being offered by East Midlands HR.

The programme shows what the business has in place already and allows for discussion about what business owners want to achieve and their company goals. It is great for SMEs who want to introduce performance management, set key performance indicators, develop people, build skills, and manage under performance.

Nicky Buckley, managing director of East Midlands HR said: “Ditching the old-fashioned annual appraisal for more frequent development and objective discussions leads to better business results.”

“We enable businesses to focus on developing and building the skills of their employees. We bring clarity to your business goals and support managers to cascade them to individuals, which then creates meaningful work

for employees to deliver an engaged workforce.

“Business owners have the choice to use psychometric assessments to raise individual and team awareness of themselves and others. It is a really great option to provide reports that enable managers to know more about themselves first to improve their management capabilities.”

East Midlands HR incorporates your company values, or supports you to create them, in the Performance Programme for effective communication and delivery of the process all employees.

The HR System East Midlands HR works with is an optional extra which can be used to measure success and supports employees to create their ‘deliverable’ actions to achieve their goals.

For more information email: nicky@eastmidlandshr.com or call 07973 353 498 Visit: www.eastmidlandshr.com

ONE HAS MANY OPPORTUNITIES

The ONE Group is a specialist recruitment consultancy offering tailored recruitment solutions to businesses across Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Northamptonshire and beyond.

Currently, the company specialises in Accountancy & Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology, Marketing, Office Support, Sales, and Technical & Engineering.

With more than 50 specialist consultants, each foc using on a particular skillset or market, you can be rest assured that you'll always be working with a consultant who understands exactly what it is that you do, or the role that you're looking to recruit for.

Their ‘Beyond Recruitment’ approach also means that they are here whenever you need them –even if that's not when you're recruiting or looking for a job. They partner with global businesses and highly skilled professionals to offer informative and interactive events around popular topics to ensure that you always have access to useful information during your own professional development journey.

Upcoming event:

The ONE Group has partnered with The Red Thread Partnership for their ‘Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast’ programme. Based in Northampton, this will be a series of breakfast workshops throughout 2023 based on topics around leadership development, team development, culture change and engagement – training provided by World Class Manager.

For more information contact jobs@theonegroup.co.uk. You can also download the salary guide at www.theonegroup.co.uk/bey ond-recruitment/salary-guide which covers more than 250 different roles in the permanent, temporary and contract recruitment markets.

Managing director of East Midlands HR, Nicky Buckley

BOOT RECALLS

007 GLORY DAYS

It’s 60 years since James Bond first graced the silver screen in the 1962 classic Dr. No.

Since then, he has become a cultural and sartorial icon, known for his dashing good looks, sharp tailoring and stylish footwear.

To mark the anniversary, Crockett & Jones, an official brand partner of EON Productions, the makers of the James Bond films, delved into its archives to develop a contemporary take on a classic from the era.

The Chelsea boot was the only choice. Crockett & Jones has been producing Chelsea boots for nearly a century, with one of the first illustrations appearing in 1925. Aptly named ‘Chelsea’, it wasn't until the early 1960s that 'Chelsea' appeared in its stock catalogue for wider wholesale purchase.

Featuring traditional, straight cut elastics, a plain front whole vamp, oak bark leather sole, flexible shoulder insoles and a jockey back strip in matching calf. The boot is produced on the original 236 last, a last that was launched in the early 60s and features a traditional round toe shape.

PERFECT FIT FOR THOSE WITH FOOT PROBLEMS

More people with foot problems including diabetes and arthritis are finding stylish, high-quality shoes to meet their needs thanks to DB Wider Feet Shoes.

Based in Rushden, DB Wider Fit Shoes has recently launched its Autumn/Winter ‘22 range and is developing a new website to help shopping for the perfect pair of shoes even easier.

As word spreads about how transformative well-fitting shoes can be, the company continues to grow despite the cost-of-living crisis. Customers understand the value of a quality pair of shoes that they can wear comfortably every day without having to compromise on style.

Customer Mrs G said: “I’m delighted. I’d reached the

stage where walking was so difficult that I was in constant pain. Now, I’m walking comfortably and so my fitness and physical stability are improving. Thank you.”

The company works with shoe retailers, podiatrists, and foot health practitioners to help solve shoe problems for their clients.

Managing Director, Charles Denton said: “We’re looking to work with other companies with a shared interest in helping clients experience the freedom to walk in complete comfort and the joy of living life to the full without thinking about their feet.”

For more information about DB Wider Fit Shoes call 01933 311 077 or email enquiry@widerfitshoes.co.uk

SHOES MADE WITH HEART AND SOLE

Timeless classics including Chelsea boots, Brogues, Oxfords, Derby Shoes and Chukka Boots are the hallmark of the latest collection of men’s footwear to come from Barker’s Shoes.

The collection’s Wye, Liffey, Tyne, Cherwell and Trent styles have all been crafted from unfinished European crust leather.

The leather arrives as a blank canvas enabling artisans to create a unique shade of leather, a process made possible by staining the unfinished leather with a light base coat.

A darker stain is then applied by hand using a brush stroke motion

to create a stunning antique wood effect. The hand brush work allows each pair of shoes to have their own individual character. The shoe is then polished with wax to create a deep rich patina.

The decorative punched detailing adds another depth to the shoe, making it an ideal choice to wear with smart or casual outfits.

Each pair of shoes is created with the utmost care at our partner factory in India and each pair is unique.

For more information about Barker’s Shoes and their range, visit www.barkershoes.com

‘THE JOY OF LIVING LIFE TO THE FULL WITHOUT THINKING ABOUT THEIR FEET’

TEAM WORK OILS THE WHEELS FOR BUSINESS GROWTH

MANNOL UK has enjoyed huge growth in its three years of operations, overcoming a number of obstacles along the way, not least the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Chief Executive, Jevgenij Lyzko tells inbusiness how the company did it, and about its ambitious plans for further expansion.

In a little over three years MANNOL UK has become a driving force in the United Kingdom automotive industry, supplying high quality engine oils and lubricants and a wide range of other products to the UK automotive aftermarket.

Since launching in Milton Keynes in 2019, MANNOL UK, recently named as a Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce Platinum Business Partner, has quickly become a force to be reckoned with. The company is a market leader in the distribution of transmission, gear and industrial oils, operating fluids such as antifreeze, coolants, brake fluids, hydraulic fluids, greases, and sealants and also supplies fuel, oil, and coolant system additives, some of which use advanced ester-based technology.

To meet demand from an impressive list of clients, MANNOL UK invested in a state-of-the-art distribution centre which opened in Northampton in 2021, giving it the flexibility to hold more stock. The company also bought a fleet of Mercedes Benz trucks and trailers to help combat growing logistical issues and has employed a team of 30 employees.

The results speak for themselves.

In 2020, MANNOL UK’s sales turnover was approximately £9.5m producing a profit. The move to the new distribution centre at the start of 2021 allowed turnover to almost double to £19.4m with profits. The projected figures for 2022 show a turnover of more than £30m.

But the road to success hasn’t always been easy as MANNOL UK’s chief executive Jevgenij Lyzko explained.

He said: “As a new entrant to a well-established automotive oil market, with many high-profile traditional brands, MANNOL UK had to gain the trust of both major clients and end users to gain a foot hold in this competitive sector. We achieved this by presenting a compelling product offer and backing this up with the supply of high-quality product and expert service at an affordable price.

“Once we established growth in sales, we’ve also had to overcome a series of unprecedented challenges. The impact of Brexit led to major changes in import and export procedures and major logistical issues. We overcame this with careful forward planning and by taking practical steps such as holding increased stock to help maintain supply.

“With the consequences of Brexit still being felt, the Covid-19 pandemic presented new obstacles. MANNOL UK was able to navigate them by adapting our operating procedures and by providing a level of service flexibility and product availability that other companies simply couldn’t match. Not only did we maintain essential supplies, but we saw a growth in sales in a very difficult and competitive environment.”

With Covid-19 also causing global demand for oil to drop to an all-time low, MANNOL UK was innovative in its approach, seeking out new clients and opportunities by placing more emphasis on the diversified product offer.

He said: “Supply chain problems have compounded a lot of issues, but our team was able to overcome them all by investing in our own commercial fleet and by working with our supply partners.

“At the heart of everything has been the dedication and ability of the MANNOL UK team which continues to grow and develop.”

Looking ahead, the team at MANNOL UK have their foot pushed firmly to the floor with ambitious plans to increase brand recognition and grow customer loyalty.

He said: “We want MANNOL UK to become the UK’s number one choice for engine oil.

“This will involve a programme of ongoing customer education about the importance of choosing the correct oil choice and the environmental benefits of choosing the right additives.

“We also want to grow into commercial vehicle oils, industrial oils, and fuel additives, which again can offer significant environmental benefits.”

For more information about MANNOL UK, visit www.mannol.de

‘THE SUPPLY OF HIGH-QUALITY PRODUCT AND EXPERT SERVICE AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE’

TALKING BUSINESS

FACTFILE: MANNOL UK

COMPANY BACKGROUND: Launched in Milton Keynes in 2019, MANNOL UK is a market leader in the distribution of high-quality engine oils and other products to the automotive industry.

DESCRIBE THE COMPANY: From a distribution centre in Northampton, Mannol UK distributes a vast range of products including transmission, gear and industrial oils, antifreeze, coolants, brake fluids, hydraulic fluids, greases, and sealants. The company also supplies fuel, oil, and coolant system additives.

WHY DID YOU JOIN THE CHAMBER?

MANNOL UK is very proud to be a Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce Platinum Business Partner. The company is passionate about building a strong business community and developing new connections with local businesses. It wants to use its position to help support the local community and build its global reputation.

PHOTOS BY: NICK FREEMAN

TRAINING & EVENTS

SALES & MARKETING UNDERSTANDING YOUR DIGITAL FOOTPRINT (HALF DAY)

Date: 1 December 2022

Cost: Members £150 + VAT

Non-Members £199 + VAT

This workshop is designed to help the delegate understand the digital footprint they are creating and leaving in the public domain, how to protect the content you are sharing and using your digital footprint to your benefit. This workshop would be suitable for anyone across all departments in the business who are using the internet and social media.

EFFECTIVE TELESALES SKILLS (FULL DAY)

Date: 18 January 2023

Cost: Members £249 + VAT

Non-Members £319 + VAT

An effective telesales call is not just about picking up the phone and “going for it”; to win business and achieve your call objectives it needs to capture your prospect’s attention, immediately build credibility and quickly develop a relationship. This workshop is designed to show you how to do this by demonstrating a clear understanding of the essential attitudes, skills and methods which are vital for effective telesales that will have an immediate impact on the business.

MANAGEMENT AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSERTIVENESS SKILLS (FULL DAY)

Date: 17 January 2023

Cost: Members £249 + VAT

Non-Members £319 + VAT

At some time or other most of us give in to people in authority or to those who are dominant or difficult. It stops us achieving our own goals and can leave us feeling inadequate, stressed and angry. This course identifies the behaviour patterns that lead to these situations. You will practise a new set of behaviour patterns to enable you to be in control in interpersonal situations.

SUCCESSFUL SUPERVISORY MANAGEMENT (2 DAYS)

Date: 25 & 26 January 2023

Cost: Members £498 + VAT

Non-Members £638 + VAT

This two-day course is appropriate for any supervisors, team leaders and 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 motive 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.

MANAGING MENTAL HEALTH AT WORK

(FULL DAY)

Date: 31 January 2023

Cost: Members £249 + VAT Non-Members £319 + VAT

This course raises awareness of mental health and how it can vary amongst the workforce, the course explores how to build resilience, share information and tools to support people in the workforce. It identifies what mental health means and how stigma can affect mental health. This course is suitable for any business owner, senior management, and leadership teams.

BUSINESS TOOLKIT FORECASTING AND BUDGETING WITHIN SME (FULL

DAY)

Date: 24 January 2023

Cost: Members £249 + VAT

Non-Members £319 + VAT

The purpose of this course is to delve into the detail of forecasting and budgeting techniques into the context of SME businesses. Delegates who attend this course will benefit from an enhanced accuracy of forecasts and budgets, understanding the difference between budgets, forecasts and targets. Better performance management and more accurate analysis, leading to better commercial decision-making and therefore profitability.

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

INTERNATIONAL TRADE UNDERSTANDING

COMMODITY CODES

(HALF DAY)

Date: 12 January 2023

Cost: Members £199 + VAT

Non-Members £249 + 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 exercisesare included in this course to ensure attendees have a strong understanding of Commodity Codes.

CUSTOMS PROCEDURES AND DOCUMENTATION INCLUDING

RULES OF ORIGIN (FULL DAY)

Date: 25 January 2023

Cost: Members £319 + VAT

Non-Members £389 + VAT

This course covers the key information required to understand:

•Organisations involved in International Trade

•What is an Export?

•International Documentation and key Information

•Rules of Origin

•Customs Compliance, HMRC –their role, Export Declarations, Customs Procedures

•Import Duties, AEO, Audit, Phased Import Easements, NI Trade.

IN

MEMBER ZONE

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.

CHARITY LAUNCHES CHRISTMAS APPEAL

Making sure that every patient in local NHS hospitals has a present on Christmas Day is the aim of a new appeal which has been launched by Northamptonshire Health Charity.

The charity’s Christmas Gifts for Patients appeal was launched many years ago to support patients, many of whom are elderly or alone over Christmas, to ensure they receive a gift.

Since then, the charity has been overwhelmed by support from the community and local businesses who have donated items including toiletries, slippers and socks, dominoes, puzzle and colouring books, sweets and chocolates.

This year, the charity is encouraging people across the region to do the same.

TUTOR EARNS ACCOLADE FOR STUDENT CARE

Moulton College tutor, Frances Wood, has won a prestigious award in recognition of the role she plays in supporting students.

Frances, a Personal Tutor at the college’s Higham Ferrers campus, was delighted to win the Pastoral Member of Staff of the Year award at this year’s National Association for Pastoral Care in Education (NAPCE) awards. The ceremony, which took place on 7 October at Worcestershire County Cricket Club, recognized outstanding achievements in pastoral care across educational settings in the UK.

Joanna King, student experience coordinator at Moulton College, said: “We are thrilled Frances has won this important award.

“It is the first time a member of our pastoral team at Moulton College has been recognised for the outstanding work they do day

in day out to provide an inclusive, engaging and safe environment for our students. Equally, Frances went above and beyond last year to ensure the students at our Higham Campus had an enrichment programme which support their wellbeing both physically, mentally and emotionally with the introduction of a social space, five-aside tournaments, regular competitions and quizzes, community projects and the creation of our amazing chatter bench.”

Corrie Harris, principal and CEO of Moulton College, said: “We are incredibly proud of Frances and the work she does to ensure students feel valued and supported. As a college, we are committed to the positive wellbeing and good mental health of our students, and our pastoral provision is an important part of this.”

Trish Ribano, service manager at Welland Centre for Adult Mental Health in Kettering, said: “We are so grateful for your support at Christmas. It makes our day when all the gifts arrive for us to give out as this can a very lonely and difficult time for patients.”

For infection control, any gifts must be new, in their original packaging, and not gift wrapped.

An Amazon Wishlist has been set up to make donating even easier –you can find more information at www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/2388BCLQ07H41

Alternatively, you can make a donation by visiting northamptonshirehealthcharity.enthuse.com/cf/christmas-gifts-forpatients-2022

Gifts can also be dropped of at the charity office at Springfield near the main A&E entrances at Northampton General Hospital, as well as at the Volunteer’s Desk at the South Entrance.

At Kettering General, you can leave them with the reception at the main entrance or call the charity office on 01536 491569.

Frances Wood from Moulton College who won the Pastoral Member of Staff of the Year in October

Christmas gifts collected for patients by Daventry Food Bank

‘IT

TEAM-UP WILL OFFER A REAL SPORTING CHANCE

The community of Northampton will now have new opportunities to hire and use first class sport and fitness services following the announcement of a new partnership.

Trilogy Leisure, which operates Cripps Recreation Centre, Danes Camp, Duston Sports Centre, Lings Forum, The Mounts Baths and the Forum Cinema as well as Berzerk Soft Play Centre, has announced a new partnership with Thomas Becket Catholic School, part of the Our Lady Immaculate Catholic Academies Trust (OLICAT Schools), a group of Catholic schools based in Northamptonshire and Bedford.

Trilogy Leisure now manages the bookings and payments of all the facilities that are available to hire at Thomas Becket Catholic School which include an internal sports hall, multi-purpose room and theatre with external football, tennis, rugby and netball facilities.

John Fletcher, managing director of Trilogy Leisure said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with one of the most recognised schools in Northampton. Thomas Becket Catholic School has first class facilities available for the community across Northampton to use.”

Headteacher Paul McCahlill, said: “Strong local community links are an integral part of life at Thomas Becket Secondary School and we therefore value the opportunity to partner with Trilogy Leisure in Northampton, to offer the hire of our high grade and purpose-built sports and theatre facilities to local youth

clubs, community groups and sports teams in the local area.”

For details of what facilities are available and how to book please visit trilogyleisure.co.uk and search for Thomas Becket.

GETTING THE RIGHT PEOPLE ‘ONBOARD’

In response to demand from its broad range of clients, Northampton-based training company Beyond Theory has designed a Recruitment and Onboarding training course that hits the spot.

Delivered in a half-day, this training equips managers at all levels with the skills they need to hire the very best people to fill their vacancies.

Director and senior consultant Paul Beesley said: “Everywhere I go, people are struggling to attract and recruit the right people for their business.

“After undertaking a training needs assessment, we designed a high impact training course to give people the skills they need to get square pegs into square holes.

“Our training covers the entire recruitment processes from start to finish. It’s made a number of companies and organisations revisit their existing recruitment processes.”

For more information on Recruitment and Onboarding training and employee engagement best practice then visit: www.beyondtheory.co.uk or call 01604 212505.

Trilogy Leisure and Thomas Beckett School have joined forces

MEMBER PROFILE

WHAT DOES YOUR ORGANISATION DO?

NewGen IT Services is an IT-managed service provider to small and medium-sized businesses, both locally and nationally. NewGen’s service range includes hardware, cloud solutions, AV & Data Cabling and connectivity.

HOW DID IT ALL START?

I was straight out of university. I started working in IT sales and then progressed my career from there.

WHAT’S YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR?

I’m proud of how NewGen has grown, as we enter our tenth year, and the way we have created an environment for young people to develop and excel.

WHAT KEEPS YOU AWAKE AT NIGHT? Thinking of an answer to this question.

WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST IN YOUR JOB?

As partner of NewGen, a new challenge develops every day which we have to overcome but that comes with the industry we are in.

WHAT’S THE BIGGEST RISK YOU’VE EVER TAKEN – AND DID IT WORK OUT?

Moving from an established position to becoming a partner of NewGen, having never run a business before but today I can say the decision has very much paid off.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT? Be bold, be honest, be personable.

WHICH BUSINESSPERSON DO YOU MOST ADMIRE?

I admire John Harley because he taught me a lot during my time with my previous employers. I am very thankful for the support he gave me, and I still use some of his methods today.

WHAT EXCITING PROJECTS IS YOUR ORGANISATION WORKING ON?

We’ve just completed phase one of three for a worldwide refrigeration company providing all IT hardware. We have another project with a client that has 15 servers and need to replace with updated infrastructure.

WHAT MADE YOUR ORGANISATION JOIN NORTHAMPTONSHIRE CHAMBER AND HOW ARE YOU MAKING USE OF YOUR MEMBERSHIP?

It is an opportunity to be part of the local business community and be able to share/receive guidance from other local businesses.

Call: 01933 426129 Email: info@newgen-it.co.uk Visit: www.newgen-it.co.uk

MEMBER BENEFITS

CHAMBER AA

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

CHAMBER HEALTH PLAN

Provided by Westfield Health, Chamber Primary Health Plan can give members cover from just £6.13 per employee, per month.

CHAMBER FX

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

NAME: Caitlin Plimmer

COMPANY: hireful

JOB TITLE: Marketing Executive

NEXT GENERATION PROFILE

BACKGROUND – TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOU

I started with hireful in April 2021 as a marketing admin apprentice. Having now finished my apprenticeship, I have begun my marketing degree apprenticeship with Nottingham Business School.

WHAT DOES YOUR JOB INVOLVE?

I work as part of the marketing team to shout about our awesome product and services using a variety of channels including social media, email marketing, as well as events and conferences.

WHY DID YOU JOIN NEXT GENERATION CHAMBER?

I think it’s a great opportunity to network with people from other local businesses which has proven to be incredibly useful so early on in my career, and I also get to attend lots of really useful and fun events.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE NEXT GENERATION CHAMBER EVENT AND WHY?

I really enjoyed the networking event which included talks from Kevin Rogers and Reemesh Patel who both discussed their career journeys. Hearing both of their stories and the advice they had to give was really inspirational.

WHICH NEXT GENERATION CHAMBER MEMBER DO YOU ADMIRE?

I’ve learnt a lot from so many of the Next Gen

Chamber members, but I really admire Jess Leech from Wilson Browne Solicitors.

I met her at a chamber networking event and was so impressed by her confidence and how keen she was to find out more about others. I saw recently on LinkedIn that she was shortlisted for Northamptonshire Young Lawyer of the Year 2022 too which I think is incredible and definitely well deserved.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU’VE LEARNED FROM NEXT GENERATION CHAMBER?

The importance of networking! I don’t think I realised how much having a wide network can benefit you both personally and professionally until joining the Next Gen Chamber.

To find out more about Next Generation membership contact us on 01604 490490 or email us at info@NextGenerationChamber.co.uk

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

CHAMBER REFERRAL SCHEME

Did you know that if you recommend your Chamber, you can get £50 off your membership renewal price?

We’re offering all our members £50 off their renewal cost every time a company they recommend joins the Chamber.

The referral scheme not only rewards members, but gives them the chance to help grow the Chamber community and welcome new businesses.

For more information and to see our full terms and conditions, visit www.northants-chamber.co.uk or give the team a call on 01604 490490.

NEW MEMBERS

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.

Academic Perspectives

NORTHAMPTON 07847 227524 www.academicperspectives.co.uk

Academic Perspectives Limited sells educational consultancy services. It’s main client is a start-up organisation called UK Education in Iraq

AMC Business Improvement

OAKHAM 07590 267209 anniemcneely.co.uk

Business improvement services including ISO implementation and auditing, process management, projects and training

Bosch CyberCompare

UXBRIDGE 01895 838918 www.cybercompare.com/en

Provider of independent platform for comparing and sourcing cybersecurity solution and service

BRZ Trade Ltd DAVENTRY 01327 706683 www.brztrade.co.uk

BRZ TRADE LTD is proud to provide high quality coffee beans from Brazilian farms to British coffee roasters and Premium Thermogenic Coffee to final customers

Changing Futures Ltd

NORTHAMPTON 07812 917003

Commercial specialists delivering public sector contracts, and providing online training and consultancy support to businesses

CJR Midlands Ltd

NORTHAMPTON 01604 493577 www.cjrmidlands.co.uk

CJR Midlands are a building service consultancy, offering mechanical and electrical survey and design. Locally involved with refurbishment works at three leisure sites

Community Spaces Northampton

NORTHAMPTON 01604 408365 www.communityspacesnn.org

Managing seven community centres, working to develop them to serve their local communities

Hillier Hopkins LLP

MILTON KEYNES 01908 232020 www.hillierhopkins.co.uk

Independent chartered accountants providing advice and support to individuals and businesses from small family enterprises to large international corporations

Hoja Group Ltd

LONDON 07454 607990 www.helpelevatestandards.com

To help businesses and individuals elevate standards via the Hoja programme which focuses on balancing the core relationships

In Music In Media

NORTHAMPTON 07762 545275

www.inmusicinmedia.com

Social enterprise that delivers a range of music based programmes to young people on a mobile basis using portable music production

Ise Up Aerial Image & Video KETTERING 07954 820122

www.iseupaerialimageandvideo.com

Aerial photography and video, roof inspections, storm damage/insurance claims, enhance websites, pubs, hotels, trade, retail, estate agents, ariel photos

June Plum Food Ltd

WELLINGBOROUGH 01933 770300 www.juneplum.net Caribbean style restaurant and catering In Wellingborough, Northamptonshire. Bringing you island vibes

Kelmarsh Hall and Gardens

KELMARSH 01604 686543 www.kelmarsh.com

Charitable trust set up in 1982 offering conferencing facilities, Civil ceremonies, wedding packages, bespoke team-building workshops for companies

My Green Trip Ltd

MILTON KEYNES 07774 931917 www.mygreentrip.co.uk

Online logistics and supply chain comparative platform that offers haulage, freight forwarding and international trade services

Open Study College

BIRMINGHAM 0121 329 4650 www.openstudycollege.com Empowering every member of our family to flourish. Here to do what we can to help people achieve their goals and thrive in life

Opus Energy Limited

NORTHAMPTON 01604 673100 www.opusenergy.com

Opus Energy is the leadi ng independent business energy supplier in the UK, providing gas and electricity to more than 200,000 businesses

Personal Strengths Coaching NORTHAMPTON 01604 974874 www.personalstrengthscoaching.com

Personal strength coaching teaches individuals about their personal strength using strengthscope.It support individuals through coaching

Proactive Young People CIC RUGBY 07702 048618 www.proactiveyoungpeoplecic.co.uk

A not-for-profit, third sector organisation who support young people and adults with employability support and skills, job applications and virtual work experience

Safety Centre (Hazard Alley) Ltd MILTON KEYNES 01908 263009 www.safetycentre.co.uk

A children's safety education charity, teaching life-saving skills through educational tours, first aid training and school outreach sessions

SSB Creative Ltd t/a Dyna-mo instruments NORTHAMPTON 07533 970209 www.dyna-moinstruments.com Dyna-mo Instruments supplies installation accessories, powers systems, geotechnical and environmental sensors

Technology –Simple Ltd (Tech Simple) NORTHAMPTON 07498 318740 www.tech-simple.co.uk B2B IT supplier

The ONE Group NORTHAMPTON 01733 234000 www.theonegroup.co.uk

Specialist recruitment consultancy covering accountancy and finance, human resources, information technology, marketing and creative, office support and sales

Thomas Travel WELLINGBOROUGH 07891 601984 www.davidthomasconsulting.co.uk Travel agents

Voltlogic Ltd NORTHAMPTON 01604 696113 www.voltlogic.co.uk Electrical switchgear and installation

VR Therapies NORTHAMPTON 01604 622402 www.vrtherapies.co.uk

Social enterprise providing the latest in VR and immersive technology to support physical and mental wellbeing

Wine Chateau Ltd WELLINGBOROUGH 07493 217324 www.winechateau.co.uk Wholesale of alcohol beverages, still and sparkling wines