SUMMER 2016
West Lancashire Apprentices and Employers Celebrate Success
International Festival for Business 2016
Help shape Skelmersdale’s future
Finance and Funding opportunities Economic Regeneration at West Lancashire Borough Council
Let’s talk Business - SUMMER 2016
Creating a strong brand for Skelmersdale In 2015 West Lancashire Borough Council adopted its Economic Development Strategy which sets out priorities for the borough’s economy for the next 10 years. One of the strategy’s main themes is the promotion of the place with a specific Key Ask of developing a Skelmersdale brand. Although Skelmersdale has many assets – not least its fantastic connectivity, green outlook and high performing businesses – it was recognised that there is no shared
The brand development process In order to move forward this exciting project, the Council appointed place specialists thinkingplace who have experience of working on similar high profile projects such as the Coventry narrative, plus projects with other boroughs including Knowsley and Burnley to name a few. The Skelmersdale branding project is being driven by a Task and Finish Group, guided by thinkingplace, which comprises of: Edge Hill University, West Lancashire College, St Modwen,
Find out more... 2
identity or story for the place and no collaborative vision to drive forward growth with a view to attracting other businesses and investment to the area. In 2016 West Lancashire Borough council together with the business community and other key partners, have collaborated to help shape a successful and prosperous future for Skelmersdale which will enable a clear and consistent message to be given about the town, positioning it firmly on the map as a place to do business.
Hotter, West Lancashire Borough Council, Fairbanks Environmental Ltd and Trelleborg Offshore UK Ltd. The brand development is now well underway and already a significant level of engagement with businesses and other partners across West Lancashire and beyond has taken place. The second Task and Finish Group took place on 4th May where the consultation findings were used to refine and shape the Skelmersdale story. The accompanying brand visuals are now being created to reflect and underpin the story and it is expected that a brand launch event will take place this summer to introduce the powerful Skelmersdale story.
Skelmersdale ambassadors’ network coming soon… As we move forward with the new brand, the formation of an ambassador network to help share and promote the positive Skelmersdale story will be critical to ensuring the long-term success of the place and will aim to bring together an impressive and extensive range of skills, knowledge and expertise. Local businesses and key organisations will be the driving force behind Skelmersdale’s future – ensuring Skelmersdale is promoted, talked about and understood on a regional, national and international stage. The ambassador’s network will be a powerful group of influential people who proactively and positively seek to develop connections, create synergies and make things happen.
Could you be a Skelmersdale ambassador? Are you committed, passionate and positive about Skelmersdale? Are you interested in being part of senior networking opportunities and raising your organisation’s profile? By becoming an ambassador for Skelmersdale you will have access to some of the most influential people in our area and with the support of the Council, this network will have the potential to make things happen.
If you’re part of a business or organisation and are interested in finding out more about this exciting project including the brand launch and the ambassador network, please contact the Economic Regeneration Team on 01695 712692 or email lets.talk@westlancs.gov.uk
Issue 13
Council’s £2.88 Million Pound Investment West Lancashire Borough Council has taken a major step forward with the Ormskirk Town Centre Strategy with the £2.88 million acquisition of Wheatsheaf Walk, Ormskirk, which went under the hammer with auctioneer’s Allsop on 16th May. The purchase represents the Council’s largest ever investment in retail property, consisting of 15 retail units, including
Wetherspoons’ Court Leet Pub and Greenhalgh’s bakery. West Lancashire Borough Council already manages retail premises elsewhere in the Borough and will now be able to use its business contacts to attract new businesses to the town which complement and improve the existing retail and leisure offer and attract more visitors to Ormskirk. For more information contact the Council’s Estates team on 01695 712617.
Break-through for aspiring self-builders Self-builders will find it easier to kickstart dreams of building a home with the launch of a new register to support people in finding suitable plots.
What is Self-build and Custom-build? Self-build and custom-build homes are those that you build yourself or where you work with experts to deliver your home to your own specification. The level of involvement you have in building your own home can vary dependent on which method you choose and there may be some overlap between the two. The government wants to enable more people to build or commission their own home and requires local authorities to identify a range of suitable development sites. To help inform the level of demand for self-build/custom-build in West Lancashire, we are asking people to join our register.
How to register
Prestigious site, Skelmersdale Orbit Developments are currently marketing a prime site on Gillibrands, Skelmersdale and are calling out to companies looking to expand or relocate to consider this fantastic opportunity located minutes from the M58/M6 gateway.
The units vary in specification, the majority feature:
Total site spans an area of over 500,000 sq ft which can be split in a number of options:
• Office area including reception, private offices
Unit 1A/B: 14,860 sq ft
• Security lodge and barrier control at site entrance
Unit 2:
100,427 sq ft (potential for sub-division from 30,763 sq ft)
Unit 3/4: 391,000 sq ft (with split options of 239,000 sq ft or 152,000 sq ft)
Specification:
Designed and built to the highest standards, the development includes a number of warehouse / industrial and office units available to let:
• Electrically operated sectional loading • Extensive service yards and car parking • Trailer parking
• Male and female WC’s
• Generous eaves height of:
To register you can download the Self and Custom build register form at: www.westlancs.gov.uk/planning/ planning-policy and email completed forms to Cerys Edwards (Planning Officer) at cerys.edwards@westlancs.gov.uk West Lancashire Borough Council will determine your application for entry onto the register within 28 days of receipt and will advise you of the outcome. Registration does not, however, guarantee that a suitable plot will be identified or become available. For further information visit: www.selfbuildportal.org.uk the portal is hosted by the National Custom and Self Build Association and offers a guide through the self and custom build process including advice and support at each stage.
- Unit 1A/B – 6m - Unit 2 – 12.5m - Unit 3 / 4 – 6-8m
For further information contact the Economic Regeneration team on 01695 712692 or email: lets.talk@westlancs.gov.uk
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Let’s talk Business - SUMMER 2016
Success at the
Apprenticeship Awards 2016
The Council’s Economic Regeneration team invited West Lancashire’s top apprentices along with employers who invest in apprenticeships to attend the 2016 Let’s talk Business Apprenticeship Awards. The event was held at West Tower, Aughton on Friday 10th March; over 70 people from the private, public and community sectors attended and celebrated success. Guest speaker of the day was young entrepreneur Joycelyn Neve, founder of the Seafood Pub Company who told her story of how she has successfully grown her business.
Advanced Apprentice of the Year
Large Employer of the Year Winner
Winner
SCA Hygiene Products Ltd
Rhys Aspinall – SCA Hygiene Products Ltd
SME Employer of the Year
Highly Commended
Face for Business
Roisin Sweeney - Face for Business Nicola Glover - Mellors Catering Services Ltd
Intermediate Apprentice of the Year Winner
Jack Baybutt – The Cashroom Ltd
Highly Commended Portia Taylor-Black – West Lancashire Borough Council Kirsty Shire – Portico Nursery Group Corey Leith Timber Packaging Solutions Ltd
AGE 16-24 Grant AGE 16 - 24 is a government grant available to employers in relation to apprentices working to approved apprenticeship frameworks. Businesses can receive up to five grants in total; each one worth £1,500. (subject to eligibility) Alongside the government’s AGE 16-24 grant you could also apply for the Council's Let's talk Apprentices grant and potentially receive up to £2,500 towards recruiting an apprentice for your business (subject to availability and eligibility).
Winner
Highly Commended The Cashroom Ltd Timber Packaging Solutions Ltd Trak Rap Ltd
Winner of the SME Employer of the Year, Andy McGregor from Face for Business, said
We are delighted to have won SME Employer of the Year as well as a highly commended award for our fabulous hard-working apprentice Roisin. As a small West Lancashire business we take pride in our workforce and are extremely proud of all our achievements in only our second year of business
Let’s talk Apprentices Grant Scheme Good news! The Council’s Let’s talk Apprentices grant has been given the green light to continue to support businesses in taking on apprentices, with grants available of £1000 per apprentice. Since September 2015, the Council’s Economic Regeneration team have already approved 19 grants to a variety of businesses across West Lancashire. If you want to reap the benefits that an apprentice can bring to your business and help give young people the best start in their career, the Council could help with a grant of £1000. The Let’s talk Apprentices grant supports eligible businesses in the borough to recruit 16 – 24 year olds into employment through an apprenticeship programme.
For information about the Apprentices Grant Scheme, Employment and Skills Charter and 4
Issue 13
Case Study: The Cashroom The Cashroom are based at the West Lancashire Investment Centre, Skelmersdale and provides outsourced cashiering services to law firms throughout the UK, as well as being able to provide clients with management accounts and payroll services. Having numerous offices around the UK, The Cashroom prides itself on staff training and has ambitious growth plans which spurred a recent move to their new offices at the West Lancashire Investment Centre, Skelmersdale in September 2015. Since then they’ve gone from strength to strength with a growing workforce of 18 including 5 apprentices. The Cashroom’s approach to talent is to ‘grow our own’ and those joining the apprentice scheme have access to excellent career opportunities as well as assistance to seek formal qualifications and development towards management and leadership positions. The Council’s Economic Regeneration team have supported The Cashroom who were successful in securing two apprenticeship grants from the Let’s talk Apprentices grant scheme, currently
Employment Charter success! Since launching in early 2016 the Employment and Skills Charter has already proven to be a great success, in this short space of time 24 West Lancashire businesses have signed up to support local employment and skills initiatives across the borough.
available to help West Lancashire businesses recruit apprentices. As well as this they have signed up to the Employment and Skills Charter and are keen to work with the Council to help support local skills and employment initiatives across the borough. The company were very keen to take part in the Let’s talk Apprenticeship Awards organised by the Council and were delighted when their young legal cashier apprentice Jack Baybutt (supported by West Lancashire College) was awarded Intermediate Apprentice of the Year. As well as this they scooped a highly commended certificate having also been nominated in the category of SME Apprentice Employer of the Year. Alex Holt, Director of Business Development said
We are delighted for Jack, from the day he started with us, Jack has added infectious enthusiasm and drive to the business. We believe his award is well deserved. We would like to thank the Council for their continued support. Our apprentices bring both a dynamic and enthusiastic approach which helps create our unique and positive working environment.
In a nutshell, the Charter is a mutual agreement between your business and West Lancashire Borough Council to help support local employment and skills initiatives. The Economic Regeneration team will work together with your business and provide you with a package of support at no cost to you.
Did you know? West Lancashire College provide Apprenticeships, vocational and higher education training and qualifications to learners and employers based within the North West. The Apprenticeship offer at West Lancashire College is diverse, offering qualifications in a number of areas including construction, engineering and hairdressing. The College works with over 200 employers to develop bespoke training options for businesses as well as having its own recruitment service, providing pathways for young people into Apprenticeship programmes. If you would like to know more about how West Lancashire College can assist your business contact their Apprenticeship team on 01695 52300 or email: enquiries@westlancs.ac.uk
Robert Godson director of Home Instead recently signed up to the Charter said At Home Instead we were more than happy to sign up to the Charter. Working together with the Council to support local skills and employment is an excellent initiative and we’re very proud to have our business name listed on the Council’s website as a Charter member
In return we ask you to contribute at least ONE DAY a year to support local employment and skills initiatives in West Lancashire. You may be doing this already?
d AGE 16-24 grant contact Tracey Shaw (Business Engagement Officer) on 01695 712555 5
Let’s talk Business - SUMMER 2016
When your business meets the world, great things can happen
What is IFB? IFB2016 is a global marketplace, bringing together thousands of delegates from around the world to create connections, share ideas and do business. The festival takes place from 13 June to 1 July 2016 at the purpose built Exhibition Centre Liverpool and hosts a jampacked series of seminars and events, giving businesses a chance to reach new markets and learn from the best.
Why should your business get involved? IFB2016 offers an unrivalled platform for companies to explore new export opportunities and grow their global network. The festival is focused on creating new international and domestic business to business relationships. Over 35,000 UK and International delegates are expected to attend, giving UK Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs) access to thousands of meetings and potential deals.
Join the IFB Business Club and gain access to a wide range of high-value services.
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The first International Festival in 2014 created an estimated £300 million worth of investment and export sales. Building on this success, IFB2016 will be the biggest event of its kind this year.
Manufacturing Creative and digital Energy and environment
A dedicated trading floor at the festival will see experts from across the world come together to support new trade and investment.
The full schedule of events is available to view at www.ifb2016.com
The gathering of inspirational speakers, business networking and over 80 events will be clustered round three themes:
This is your free ticket into the festival and provides access to exclusive benefits, including:
The world’s biggest business festival three weeks of events, speakers, seminars and product showcases Meet Your Future Deal one-to-one meetings with buyers, suppliers and investors Meet the Specialist Advisor one-to-one appointments with 15 leading industry experts
Live export opportunities real-time opportunities accompanied by expert guidance from UKTI advisers
Investment Opportunities UK companies will be discussing their opportunities at the Investment Showcase, plus advice, guidance and introductions
Special offers and VIP access exclusive invitations and member benefits Exclusive insights and updates regular news updates and business announcements
International networking approximately 40% of delegates attending from outside of UK The business club is free to join however you must register to be able to access the services and facilities. Join now at www.ifb2016.com
Funding Programmes
Issue 13
Rosebud celebrates its 30th Anniversary Rosebud Finance prepares to mark its 30th anniversary later this year. Originally set up in June 1986 by Lancashire County Council, Rosebud provides finance for small and medium sized businesses and is now seeking new applications from businesses in growth sectors such as aerospace, advanced manufacturing, creative and digital, energy and environmental technology, and financial and professional services. Rosebud offers fast, flexible loan and equity finance (or a combination of both) ranging from £10,000 up to £1m. As well as funding growth ideas, Rosebud also includes complimentary support and advice that’s tailored to your business needs. Benefits include: support from locally-based sector specialist advisors to help fuel your growth as well as hands-on support and meetings with sector specialists.
Call to West Lancashire manufacturing businesses Are you a manufacturing business? Are you looking to invest in machinery or digital infrastructure? Will your project create jobs? Lancashire Business Growth Fund may help you fund your growth project! Expires March 2017
Lancashire Business Growth Fund Lancashire Business Growth Fund provides capital investment to oven-ready business projects in Lancashire that will create jobs and stimulate company growth. Eligible projects include: • Machinery/Plant acquisition • Infrastructure improvement
Up to funding
20%
of the total project costs is available from the Lancashire Business Growth Fund with a minimum grant of £10,000
International Trade Support for manufacturing businesses The East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce offers tailored support to small and medium sized manufacturing businesses that have the ambition and capacity to grow internationally, Support reach more includes funding customers, of up to 50% and for international market increase research, international turnover. agreements and quotations, specialised training and support, and networking.
Benefits include: • International market research to find buyers or partnerships • International agreements to trade safely with distributors and agents • International quotations with terms and conditions • Specialised in-house training covering various topics • Specialised support from an experienced International Business Advisor • Guidance on payment terms and credit reports • Networking with international traders across the County
Does your business have new ideas for products and services that will benefit the environment? Lancaster University’s Centre for Global Eco-Innovation is looking to work with leading North West businesses to deliver research and development partnerships to support the development of new products, processes and services for the global marketplace. Eligible sectors are: • High value manufacturing • Aerospace • Automotive • Chemicals • Digital and creative • Energy and environmental technologies This 3 year programme of funded research and development will be undertaken by a qualified and experienced graduate. The cost to businesses is £5,500 per year for tuition fees, graduation services and a contribution towards project consumables.
For further information on all of the above funding programmes contact Anoek Petit (Business Development Officer) on 01695 712559 or email anoek.petit@westlancs.gov.uk www.westlancs.gov.uk/business
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Let’s talk Business - Summer 2016
Meet West Lancashire Borough Council’s Economic Regeneration Team
Paula Huber Economic Regeneration Manager Tracey Shaw Business Engagement Officer Anoek Petit Business Development Officer Kathryn Mulhearn Senior Economic Regeneration Officer Lisa Ratican Economic Regeneration Officer Dominic Carr Senior Planning Officer (Regeneration)
Pictured from left to right: Portia, Tracey, Anoek, Paula, Kathryn, Lisa ,Dominic The Economic Regeneration Team at West Lancashire Borough Council are fully committed to supporting businesses across West Lancashire; offering a personal and bespoke one to one support service in a number of areas including:
• Finance / funding • Skills and employment • Land and property • Networking and events • And much more…
Dates for your diary Lancashire Hotspots: West Lancashire
Lancashire Hotspots is a regular feature in Lancashire Business View magazine which examines the county’s hottest spots for commerce, industry and regeneration. This Lancashire Hotspots event will focus on West Lancashire and will be a question time-style panel event featuring leading business and public sector guests. There will also be plenty of opportunity to network with the movers and shakers of the area over breakfast plus interaction with the panel during Q&A. The event, which will link with the Lancashire Hotspots feature in the JulyAugust edition of Lancashire Business View magazine, will shout about what is happening in West Lancashire and what the opportunities are. It will focus on skills,
investment, ambition and collaboration and consider the Skelmersdale place branding project which is now underway. There’ll be lots to hear, learn and discuss! Members of the panel for this event confirmed to date are: • Maria Gilling, Principal, West Lancashire College • Andy Wood, HR director, Trelleborg Offshore UK • Steve Jones, Managing Director, Fairbanks Environmental Ltd • Frank McKenna, Councillor and Chief executive of Downtown in Business Date: 9th June 2016 Venue: Best Western Lancashire Manor Hotel, Prescott Road, East Pimbo, Skelmersdale, WN8 9QD Time: 8.00am – 10.00am
Cost: £20 (+ vat) per delegate
Book online at: www.lancashirebusinessview.co.uk Lancaster University Management School Growth and entrepreneurship in family firms
This event is ideal for family business leaders of all size and sector. Hosts Professor Jess Chua and Professor Alfredo De Massis will open the debate with the latest research surrounding growth and entrepreneurial behaviour in family firms.
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Date: 9th June 2016 Venue: Lancaster University Management School, Lancaster, LA1 4YW Time: 1.00pm – 5.00pm
Places are FREE; however, numbers are limited and must be booked in advance by contacting Eve Tinker at Lancaster University on 01524 510703.
Portia Taylor-Black Economic Regeneration Support Officer www.westlancs.gov.uk/business To discuss your business needs contact us today; we are happy to come and meet with you at your place of work or have a chat on the phone: Tel: 01695 712692 or email: lets.talk@westlancs.gov.uk
Useful Contacts Council Services Council services can be accessed online at: www.westlancs.gov.uk or by calling: 01695 577177 Business Rates www.westlancs.gov.uk/businessrates Planning and building control www.westlancs.gov.uk/planning Estates and property www.westlancs.gov.uk/business/ business-location-links Licensing www.westlancs.gov.uk/licensing Refuse and recycling – trade waste collections www.westlancs.gov.uk/refuse-recycling/ trade-waste-collections.aspx If you have any news you would like us to include, or to find out about advertising opportunities in future editions, please email: lisa.ratican@westlancs.gov.uk Please note that not all contributions can be used and information may be edited to fit.