SBT 419 2018

SBT

ISSUE 419

FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

THE YEAR AHEAD: A LOOK AT THE WORLD OF TELECOMS HERE IN YOUR FIRST ISSUE OF THE YEAR, INDEPENDENT EXPERT IN THE FIELD WITH OVER 35 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE INDUSTRY - DAVE MILLETT TAKES A LOOK AT WHAT 2018 MIGHT HOLD FOR THE WORLD OF TELECOMS

MOTORING: VINCE’S VERDICT SBT IS DELIGHTED TO WELCOME RIVERVALE AS THE SPONSORS OF OUR MOTORING SECTION. HERE IN THESE PAGES, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AT RIVERVALE, VINCE PEMBERTON GIVES HIS VERDICT ON SOME IMPORTANT MOTORING MATTERS

WEST SUSSEX BUSINESS EXPO 2018 WE LOOK FORWARD TO 2018’S B2B EXPOS, STARTING WITH THE WEST SUSSEX BUSINESS EXPO

INTRODUCING PSYDRO HERE IN YOUR FIRST ISSUE OF 2018, OUR COVER FEATURE FOCUSES ON THAT OF NEW BUSINESS ON THE BLOCK, PSYDRO - THE REVIEW SITE WITH A DIFFERENCE. SBT OUTLINES THE COMPANY’S AIMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE WITHIN SUCH A DEMANDING BUSINESS COMMUNITY SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

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SBTWelcome MEET THE TEAM

Sam Thomas, Managing Director/ Publisher

Tom Alexander, Web Designer/ Developer

Jess Saunders, Head of Production

Clare Fermor, Accounts

CONTRIBUTORS

Julia Jeyes, Owner & Director, Grafton Banks Finance

Matthew Stanley, Accounts Director, Coast to Coast Direct

Timothy Fifield, Business Development Director, BritWeb Ltd

Gavin Willis, Managing Director, Search Seven

James Dempster, Managing Director, Cobb Digital

Simon Bucknall, Toastmasters International

Dave Millett, Equinox

Sean Clemons, Parnter, RLF

Welcome to our very first issue of 2018!

The year ahead is looking exciting for Sussex Business Times as we look forward to launching our brand new business-to-business platform, The Business Group, as well as continuing to provide you with the very best and latest business news. The Business Group is the evolution of the magazine in all of its context, news, reviews, sector focus and interviews, and along with the integration of traditional editorial content, the site also hosts a number of powerful, industry-leading and valuable web-based facilities.

Our cover feature this month focuses on that of new business on the block, Psydro. As a new review site with a difference, here in these pages we outline the company’s aims and plans for the future within such a demanding business community.

Elsewhere in this issue and as business in Sussex is showing no signs of slowing down, we look forward to 2018’s B2B Expos, starting with the West Sussex Business Expo, set to take place in May. The Sussex Innovation Centre take to our Education pages this month to provide us with the latest on the ten enterprises to progress to the finals of the 2017 StartUp Sussex Student Entrepreneurship programme. Meanwhile, our Health & Wellbeing pages bring you top-to-toe health tips to guide you through the New Year.

Additionally and new to 2018, Managing Director at Cobb Digital, James Dempster graces our pages, bring you the first of his monthly historical columns. We are also delighted to welcome this months sponsors of our Property section, RLF, with views from Partner, Sean Clemons Alongside all of this, we provide you with our regular Ask the Expert columns and Made in Sussex feature, this month featuring Gran Stead’s Ginger Company. Also, our motoring section has endured some updates as we proudly welcome Rivervale as its sponsor. In these pages, Chief Operating Officer, Vince Pemberton gives his verdict on some important motoring matters. Of course, also included in this issue are our lunch and hotel reviews, this month focusing on Brighton’s Gars Chinese Restaurant and Hotel Pelirocco, plus your usual local, national, motoring and Chamber news.

Enjoy your Janunary read!

Sam Thomas, Managing Director

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3

SBTContents

Issue 419

SBT

JANUARY 2018 ISSUE 419

FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

THE YEAR AHEAD: A LOOK AT THE WORLD OF TELECOMS HERE IN YOUR FIRST ISSUE OF THE YEAR, INDEPENDENT EXPERT IN THE FIELD - WITH OVER 35 YEARS OF EXPERIECE IN THE INDUSTRY - DAVE MILLETT TAKES A LOOK AT WHAT 2018 MIGHT HOLD FOR THE WORLD OF TELECOMS

MOTORING: VINCE’S VERDICT SBT IS DELIGHTED TO WELCOME RIVERVALE AS THE SPONSORS OF OUR MOTORING SECTION. HERE IN THESE PAGES, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AT RIVERVALE, VINCE PEMBERTON GIVES HIS VERDICT ON SOME IMPORTANT MOTORING MATTERS

WEST SUSSEX BUSINESS EXPO 2018 WE LOOK FORWARD TO 2018’S B2B EXPOS, STARTING WITH THE WEST SUSSEX BUSINESS EXPO

INTRODUCING PSYDRO HERE IN YOUR FIRST ISSUE OF 2018, OUR COVER FEATURE FOCUSES ON THAT OF NEW BUSINESS ON THE BLOCK, PSYDRO - THE REVIEW SITE WITH A DIFFERENCE. SBT OUTLINES THE COMPANY’S AIMS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE WITHIN SUCH A DEMANDING BUSINESS COMMUNITY SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

Cover: Psydro

Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 012 Head of Production Jess Saunders jess@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 018 Web Designer/Developer: Tom Alexander Accounts: Clare Fermor accounts@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 016 Published by The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Unit 1a Swan Barn Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY Printed by Gemini Print A1, Dolphin Way, Shoreham-by-Sea, BN43 6NZ 01273 464884 www.gemini-print.co.uk

All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

The views expressed in Sussex Business Times Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Sussex Business Times Magazine assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisement contained within Sussex Business Times Magazine. All prices featured in Sussex Business Times Magazine are correct at the time of going to press.

Copyright The Business Group Sussex Ltd. 2017 ©

4 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

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News

View the latest local and national business headlines.

Spending it

With February 14th just around the corner, we bring you some of the best gifts for Valentine’s Day.

Finance

Sheen Stickland Chartered Accountants delve deep into one of the many uncertainties: is the Government still making tax digital?

A Look at the World of Telecoms

Here in your first issue of the year, independent expert in the field with over 35 years of experiece in the industry - Dave Millett takes a look at what 2018 might hold for the world of telecomscess.

Creating a Speech to Inspire

Toastmasters International’s Simon Bucknall takes to our pages this month, delving deep into the elements of an inspiring speech.

CRM Systems: Supporting your Journey to GDPR Compilance Sussex Business Times introduces brand new Customer Relationship Magement tool, SET For Business. Here, they explain the importance of this kind of assistance for businesses

What to Expect from Construction & Property in 2018

Sussex Business Times is delighted to announce RLF as the sponsors of our new Property section. Here, Sean Clemons provides you with the very latest information from the construction and property market.

Cover Feature: Introducing Psydro

Our cover feature focuses on that of new business on the block, Psydro – the review site with a difference. SBT outlines the company’s aims and plans for the future within such a demanding business community.

Tried and Tested in Sussex

This month’s Hotel Review features Brighton’s Hotel Pelirocco, while SBT enjoyed a lunchtime bite at Gars Chinese Restaurant. We feed back on our thoughts.

Chamber News

For this month’s Chamber News section, Sussex Business Times has partnered with the Sussex Chamber of Commerce.

Motoring

SBT is delighted to welcome Rivervale as the sponsors of our motoring section. Here in these pages, Chief Operating Officer at Rivervale, Vince Pemberton gives his verdict on some motoring matters.

Ask the Experts

Local Sussex business experts advise on relevant issues.

Made in Sussex

This month’s home-grown hero is Gran Stead’s Ginger Company.

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SBTLocal News Brighton Employee Velebrates 25 Years of Service

An employee at Covers Timber & Builders Merchants in Brighton has celebrated the impressive milestone of 25 years of service at the business.

Covers Timber and Builders Sales Representative, Nick Terry joined Covers in 1992 and was recently presented with an Amazon Alexa by Rupert Green, the company’s Chairman, as a reward for his long service.

Nick Terry commented: “Through my job I get to meet so many different people and work with a wonderful team, and it’s hard to believe I’ve been with the firm 25 years - the time has flown by.”

Rupert Green added: “The dedication and hard work of our team are key to Covers’ success and I was delighted to congratulate Nick for the contribution he has made to the company over the past 25 years.”

Conservative Cllrs Concerned by Lack of Sovereign Centre Details Conservative Councillors have expressed concerns that the borough council has not released details of its proposed £24 million Sovereign Centre.

Plans for the building were due to be taken to the council’s planning committee in May but, as yet, these have not been submitted even though it has been a year since the decision was made to go ahead with the development.

Local residents continue to raise many concerns about the new centre, including fears of increased traffic and other disruption during construction.

They have also questioned whether the Lib Dem-controlled council really needs to spend £24m on it.

Councillor Paul Metcalfe said: “Residents are not only concerned with the future development of the Sovereign Centre but also what will take its place on the existing site once a new structure is built on the carpark area.”

Hendy Makes Key Appointments in Chichester Hendy continues to invest in its people with the appointment of a new management team at Ford Chichester.

Matt Peachey has been appointed new car Sales Manager, Richard Taylor used car sales manager and Lee Hobbs service manager.

Their appointments come at a time of investment and expansion for Hendy and commercial director Mark Busby said he was delighted to strengthen the team in Chichester.

Colleague Richard Taylor first joined Hendy Ford in 2001, when he began his

career within the motor industry. He spent 16 years working with various car brands across the south of England before recently returning to Hendy.

Entering the motor industry straight from school to train as a technician, Lee Hobbs has gained invaluable experience, working with a range of well-known manufacturers. He says: “This is a great chance to really get to know our customers, and making sure their cars are well looked-after. There is a great team of skilled individuals here in Chichester, and I’m looking forward to working with them.” www.hendy.co.uk

Historic Sussex Hotels ‘Chef Take Over’ at 64 Restaurant and Bar, Chichester College On Thursday 11 January, Head Chefs at Historic Sussex Hotels took over the kitchen at Chichester College, to prepare a five-course tasting menu in collaboration with the catering students, showcasing

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the best of Sussex produce. This is the latest partnership between Historic Sussex Hotels and Chichester College, who work closely together to nurture young people’s interest in the food and hospitality industry.

The catering students worked alongside chefs Martin Hadden, Group Executive Chef; Stephen Crane, Head Chef of Ockenden Manor; Russell Williams, Head Chef at Bailiffscourt and Richard Cave-Toye, Head Chef at The Spread Eagle to prepare a delicious fivecourse tasting menu - gaining an insight

into how a busy kitchen and restaurant operates, as well as first-hand experience of producing and serving a five-course tasting menu.

As well as raising awareness and giving the chefs in training an opportunity to work with experienced and awardwinning chefs at restaurant standard, the evening will showcase the very best local suppliers in Sussex. Multi-award-winning winery Ridgeview Estate, South Downs Venison & Game, Selsey Seafood and Ellis Food Services will be supporting the event

SBTLocal News MHA Carpenter Box Heads into 2018 Following a Record 2017

Thousands of Properties Protected from Flooding Thanks to Greater Brighton Thousands of homes, hundreds of businesses and essential transport routes will become protected from flooding thanks to the work of Greater Brighton.

The Environment Agency is midway through the multi-million pound Adur Tidal Walls scheme, which will reduce the risk of flooding in Shoreham.

As well as preserving existing buildings, a business case backed by the government shows the work will also protect key rail and road routes while unlocking other sites for future development.

It has all been made possible thanks to £6 million of funding drawn in through the Greater Brighton Economic

Board (GBEB) via Coast To Capital Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

During a visit to see some of the 7.2 km stretch where work is taking place, Greater Brighton leaders said they were delighted to see the progress.

Councillor Andy Smith, GBEB Chairman and leader of Lewes District Council, said: “I’m extremely impressed at the work to make one of Greater Brighton’s key towns virtually ‘flood-proof’. This is a prime example of how taxpayers money spent wisely and strategically can have a massive impact on the wider community.” www.greaterbrighton.com

Brighton-based Acceler8 Training gets a Twitter Boost from Theo Paphitis A Brighton-based firm has received a business boost from Retail Entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.

Last week, Chris Scott owner of Acceler8 Training, tweeted Theo about his business during ‘Small Business Sunday’ and was one of six weekly winners to gain a retweet by Theo to his 500,000 Twitter followers. The weekly initiative, set up by Theo in 2010, now has over 2000 #SBS winners and supports small businesses in the UK. Business and retail entrepreneur and self-confessed Shopkeeper, Theo re‐ tweeted Acceler8 Training’s message to his almost 500,000 followers and as a result, www.acceler8training.co.uk has

more followers and lots of interest approach to training.

They are also profiled on the #SBS website (www.theopaphitissbs.com) that is exclusive to all Small Business Sunday winners.

Sussex-based chartered accountants MHA Carpenter Box is welcoming in 2018 on the back of a record year, driven in part by the rapid expansion of its Gatwick office.

The firm, headquartered in Worthing, has seen its Gatwick headcount grow from four employees at start-up in June 2015 to 27 today, 15 of whom have been recruited in the last 12 months. Driving this growth has been an impressive increase in the client base being managed from Gatwick which, added to the strong performance of the Worthing office has made for an exceptional 12 months.

To aid its long-term growth, MHA Carpenter Box also recruited its highest-ever number of new trainees last year, nine of whom were taken on at Worthing and three in Gatwick.

Chris Coopey, Partner and Practice Director at the firm, commented: “Our focus on service innovation and sector-related specialist support along with the national and global reach we can achieve through MHA and Baker Tilly International has certainly paid dividends, to the point that we now count multi-national businesses among our clients, regularly winning new business at the expense of accountancy groups with global profiles.”

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SBTNational News Commuters Faced with Double Blow as Rent Rises Run Alongside Train Fare Bikes

In a week that saw train season ticket prices rise by an average of 3.6% across the UK, the biggest increase to fares since 20131, Landbay’s Rental Index, powered by MIAC, reveals that commuters in almost half of London’s most popular commuter towns face a greater overall financial burden from growing rents than from train fares.

Of the capital’s 40 commuter belt hotspots2, all found in the East or South East of England, 17 towns are being hit with a double blow, with extra annual expenditure on rail fares surpassed by spending on higher rents. Average rents in these 17 towns, rose by an average of £183 (1.68%) in the year to December, while rail fares have jumped by an average of £142 (3.6%). Combining annual rental and rail fare increases, commuters in these regions are facing a total additional outlay of £325 a year. Cambridge and Brighton have seen the greatest monetary rise in rents, £228 (2.06%) and £202 (1.58%) respectively, as rail fares in both regions rose by £172 and £163.

Late Payment On Worsens for UK SMEs Shopping Mobile To Top £53bn were the worst late payers to UK SMEs. The culture of late payment to UK By 2024 Bilal Mahmood, MarketInvoice SMEs is undermining their growth and the value they bring to the UK economy. Findings1 from business finance company MarketInvoice reveal that 62% of invoices issued

by UK SMEs in 2017 (worth over £21b) were paid late, up from 60% in 2016.

The average value of these invoices was £51,826 and three in ten invoices paid late took longer than two weeks from the agreed date to settle, with some taking almost 6 months to be paid. The research analysed which sectors, UK regions and countries

spokesperson commented: “A bad situation is getting worse. The problem is being compounded by 90-day payment terms demanded by larger organisations, which are becoming more common.

SMEs need to understand what measures they can take to reduce the risk, such as making T&C’s clear from the outset, chasing payments down and enforcing the right to claim compensation from late payments.”

Tax Specialists Firm Aiming For ‘Best Companies to Work For’ Lists A Nottingham-based firm of tax experts, DSR Tax Claims, spoke of their ambition to reach the 2018 list of best companies to work for. Speaking out as Consultancy UK, amongst other organisations, release their lists of the best companies to work for in this past year, tax expert and founder of DSR Tax Claims David Redfern expressed his desire for his company of tax preparation specialists to join those lists next year and explained why the firm of tax preparation specialists were already on their way.

As 2017 draws to a close, Redfern expressed his delight at the successes his team have already achieved in their first year of trading, adding: “I

firmly believe that a happy workforce is a productive workforce, and because my team feel that I as their employer wants the best for them, they are happy to go the extra mile for our clients as well as for our company.” He added that he was passionate about continuous professional development and providing staff support, as well as providing his employees with a pleasant working environment.

Cyber Threats are Biggest Technology Fear for Financial and Public Sector in 2018 The financial services industry and public sector are aligned in their concerns about data and system security, with both citing a fear of harmful cyber threats emerging in 2018, according to a new study from digital workplace provider Invotra.

The research, conducted among 504 senior IT Managers working across public sector and financial organisations, found that 79% of those in the public sector, and 85% of respondents in the financial services

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sector, consider data and systems security to be their biggest priority. Both groups also said that the most notable impact of high profile cyber attacks hitting the headlines was greater scrutiny on existing systems. When asked how well equipped their organisation is to defend itself against cyber attacks, the financial sector showed greater confidence, with 94% saying they had a strong line of defence, compared to 88% in the public sector.

SBTNational News RSM UK Reports Annual Revenue Rise of 9% to £319m

UK House Prices Fall for First Time Since June, Says Halifax UK house prices fell in December, once again marred by uncertainty surrounding Brexit, according to Halifax.

Between November and December house prices fell by 0.6 per cent, the first fall since June last year, the bank said on Monday.

Prices in the last three months of 2017 were 2.7 per cent higher than in the same three-month period of 2016.

That marked a significant slowdown from the 3.9 per cent rise recorded in the three months to the end of November compared to the equivalent

period in the previous year. The average UK house price at the end of December was £225,021.

“As we’d anticipated, the housing market in 2017 followed a similar pattern to the previous year.

House price growth slowed, whilst building activity, completed sales and mortgage approvals for house purchase all remained flat,” said Russell Galley, Managing Director of Halifax Community Bank.

“This has been driven by a squeeze on real wage growth and continuing uncertainty over the economy.”

Stedham Woman’s Business in ‘Top 100 UK Franchises’ League Table Stedham-based Julie Clabby, co-founder of innovative mother and baby exercise classes Busylizzy, has had her business ranked as number 56th in the UK’s Top 100 franchise businesses.

Created to cater for the app-loving, flexibility demanding modern mum on maternity leave, Busylizzy Family Club was founded in 2011 when Julie and friend Sarah Sarah Batterbury saw a gap in the market for a totally new approach to sourcing and booking both ante and post-natal exercise classes and fun and educational classes for pre-school children. Julie was previously worked as a Leisure Industry professional and Sarah is a full-time lawyer.

Following enormous success with the pilot model, the pair franchised the business in 2014 and now have 14 franchisees operating in 15 territories across the UK, with 8000 members and employing over 180 freelance instructors.

The company is an associate member of the British Franchise Association.

Commenting on their position in the league table Managing Director, Julie said: “We are absolutely delighted to be at number 56 in the list of Top 100 Franchises in the UK. There are over 900 franchise brands in the UK, so to even be on this list is truly wonderful news and testament to the hard work, passion and dedication of our entire network.”

Leading audit, tax and consulting firm RSM today announced a 9 per cent increase in UK annual revenues to £319m for its financial year ending 31 March 2017.

While Consulting, Human Resource and Legal Services revenues grew by 46.6 per cent to almost £16m for the year, all other core service lines contributed to the growth in revenues.

Tax and advisory grew by 8.6 per cent to £138m, audit and assurance grew by 4.8 per cent to £77m and restructuring advisory grew by 9.6 per cent to £39m. Meanwhile, risk assurance grew by 14.6 per cent to £25m and corporate finance grew by 1 per cent to £24m.

Partner and staff numbers rose by 4 per cent to almost 3,500 while total partner and staff remuneration increased by 11 per cent to £202m.

Consolidated UK company profits grew by 16 per cent to £5m, while profits of RSM UK Group LLP rose by 15 per cent to £49m.

Meanwhile dividends paid to staff, partners, and retired staff and partners rose by over 4 per cent to £3m.

Laurence Longe, RSM’s Chief Executive Officer said: “This year’s excellent financial results very clearly show the commercial benefit of the major investment that has been made in first reshaping and then rebranding the firm following the absorption of the former Tenon business in 2013. Significant underlying organic growth in multiple revenue streams in 2017 is now making its contribution to RSM achieving its long term strategic objective of becoming the first-choice adviser to middle market leaders, globally.”

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O&G Kickstarts 2018 with a Brand New Acquisition Creative agency, O&G has kickstarted 2018 by acquiring News respected Brighton and London branding agency, VGROUP. The acquisition hails O&G’s 40th year in business, having been set up by David Graimes, the father of the current joint Managing Directors, Gavin and Gareth.

“There aren’t many agencies here which can boast 40 years in business,” says Gavin Graimes. “We’ve worked with some amazing clients over the years, including a variety of well-known blue chip and household names and we’ve always been forward-thinking as a business. We started as a small creative advertising and design agency, embraced new technology and innovation, and we’re now at the forefront of the region’s advertising, digital and creative services sector.

VGROUP will continue as a separate entity within the O&G business structure.

The parent company will introduce VGROUP to its existing clients, giving them access to a very experienced team of branding specialists able to offer a full brand strategy, design and communication service. Whilst VGROUP will have access to O&G’s full marketing services beyond initial brand development, including website design

and build, graphic design and digital marketing.

“We’d been looking for an opportunity for a while,” added Gavin Graimes, “and had known and admired VGROUP for some time. When the opportunity arose, we felt it was a perfect fit. It’s part of our ongoing business strategy to add niche complementary services when and where appropriate to grow and develop our company.”

O&G and VGROUP will operate from their existing offices in Brighton, Hove and London, working with clients in all sectors throughout the UK and internationally, celebrating O&G’s 40 years in business and looking forward to even more successes, in the future.

For more on the companies, please visit: www.oandg.co.uk www.vgroup.com

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A Gift of Love

As we fast approach February 2018, we approach the time to start thinking about gifts for your loved ones. Here, Sussex Business Times brings you the best gifts for Valentines Day LUNCH WITH HARRY BY TONY DRURY Written by author, Tony Drury, this book pays tribute to the most romantic film of all, ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’. This would make the perfect valentines gift for bookworms! “Lunch with Harry” transfers the tale to Regent Street, London in 2016. Audrey Hepburn is recreated in the desirable shape of Dr Ella van Houten who has stood on a man’s foot outside Hamleys, the world’s oldest toy shop. Ella was imagining that she was Holly Golightly, the character that Hepburn played in one of Hollywood’s greatest ever romantic films. £1.99 on Kindle or £5.99 paperback.

www.tonydrury.com

PAUL SMITH CLOSE STRIPE WALLET Paul Smith are known for their eccentric designs and quirky pieces, keeping your style up to date and individual. They present this Stripe Wallet, featuring a dark red exterior with a multi coloured stripe interior.

Red colourway, 8 interior card slots, note compartment, tonal stitching and gold branding to the outside. £150. www.tessuti.co.uk

VALENTINE CAKE BOX Award-winning Artisan baked cakes with vegetables as the top ingredient. Baked fresh to order.

The Romantic valentines cake selection consists of Rose and Courgette, Violet and Pumpkin, Orange and Butternut Squash, Carrot Cake with Vanilla Frost, Fruit Loaf with Parsnip and Lemon Icing. £14.99. blackberrycottagefayre.co.uk

ENGRAVED EDGE RECTANGULAR CUFFLINKS OLIVIA BURTON LADIES’ THE DANDY CHALK Keep it simple but classy with this stylish Midi Dial watch. Featuring a Rose Gold case and a clean White Dial, this versatile timepiece features a Chalk Blue leather strap which will add a pop of pastel colour to any outfit. £75. www.watchshop.com

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These Gold Plated Engraved Edge Rectangular Cufflinks are the perfect accessory choice for the discerning gent. Handmade in England from plated Gold with an engraved outer edge and t-bar fitting, the exquisite attention to detail is the epitome of understated luxury. Each pair of cufflinks arrives in an exquisite Aspinal signature jewellery presentation box. £70. www.aspinaloflondon.com

LARGE ASPEN LEAF GOLD PENDANT AND GOLD CHAIN

AESOP MOROCCAN NEROLI SHAVING SERUM

Each leaf is preserved, dipped in precious metal and attached to a delicate chain, making a thoughtful, creative gift.

Availabe in oak, maple or aspen design and in a choice of sterling silver or gold. £85.

Aesop return with new goods for the new season featuring a sensational offering of plant-based fragrances and body care products. Included in the latest offering is the Moroccan Neroli Shaving Serum that is a blend of hydrating botanicals formulated for maximum slip to facilitate a razorclose shave that also calms and softens the skin. This product is suitable for most skin types and key ingredients leave the skin feeling smooth, calm and refreshed. £25.

www.nhmshop.co.uk

ROYAL ROMANCE SUITS YOU HOTEL PACKAGE The Brazilian Court invites guests to live and love like Royals this Valentine’s Day with their “Royal Romance Suits You” package which includes luxury accommodations in one of the hotel’s signature suites, an introductory helicopter lesson, a half day coastal excursion via Royal Yacht Charters and more. www.thebraziliancourt.com

www.thehipstore.co.uk

TWISTING SPIRITS DISTILLED GINS

RECTANGULAR SIGNET RING

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With the comeback of the signet rings, you’re sure to make an impression with this one. A rectangular top, fit for engraving, is accented by a diamond touch n a corner. The ring is crafted in two tone 14 ct gold in the 80s in Finland. £390.

www.lilasjewels.co.uk Twisting Spirits is the passionate project of two former IT execs, Mary & Richard Bateman, who use hot and cold distillation techniques to produce their signature spirits, from their converted garage-turned-microdistillery. The labels reflect the DNA of the gins. Each label is colour coded and the bands of the design represent each botanical and its proportion in the recipe. 700ml bottle of any of the Twisting Spirits range currently retails at £39, while smaller 200ml bottles are available at £15.

www.twistingspirits.co.uk

LIBRA ANTIQUE BRONZE LOVEBIRDS SCULPTURE This delightful antique bronze finish bird sculpture exudes a sense of love and companionship.

Cosy and snuggled tight, these adorable round lovebirds are shown sitting on a perch atop a simple frame and solid black base.The metallic finish to the resin has bright accents of bronze that highlight the soft, round contours of the lovebirds chests and tails. £34. www.arrtisanti.com

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On Again, Off Again...

Is the Government Still Making Tax Digital?

For January’s Finance pages and ahead of a year full of questions in the minds of many businesses throughout Sussex, Sheen Stickland Chartered Accountants delve deep into one of the many uncertainties: is the Government still making tax digital?

Whilst businesses and freelancers focus Finance on the 31st January deadline for their tax return, there is a major change on the horizon and it will require some forward planning that begins now. The Making Tax Digital (MTD) initiative is a transformative policy to alter the way businesses record their finances and submit tax returns. The initial announcement was made prior to the snap election last year, and the original Finance Bill drafted from the budget laid out the requirements. That initial bill was shelved for a time while the election took

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place, but the government has confirmed that the MTD rules, including Making Tax Digital for VAT, will come into effect from April 2019.

Plan ahead to avoid disruption It’s important to start planning early to avoid disruption to your business.

Making Tax Digital is the name for a whole package of digital reforms and changes to the structure and processes relating to filing tax returns. The government has put a significant focus on tax avoidance, and championed the reforms promised by the MTD programme as a means of addressing this issue. The challenge for HMRC is going to be to deliver against

their tax-raising objectives without imposing unfair demands on businesses.

How accommodating HMRC will be remains to be seen; in the meantime, planning ahead is the most effective way to avoid any issues.

Quarterly returns Although the title focuses on the move from paper-based to electronic records, there are other aspects contained in the planned reforms. The introduction of new quarterly returns, for example, was met with concern by business groups which stated that the regime would be a major cost and time burden for small firms.

HMRC maintains that it will have a limited

Finance impact on SMEs but until the changes are implemented, it’s hard to know the effect these might have. It’s clear that keeping up-to-date records is going to assume much greater importance.

Time to go digital The change to digital financial records is a significant one for many businesses.

The rise of subscription-based cloud accounting services has meant there is a viable option for smaller operators who don’t have the resources or inclination to invest in enterprise-level software. If you’re currently working from paper files, it might be wise to start the transition to digital records now so that you can get everything ready and iron out any problems ahead of the deadline. If you currently manage your finances electronically, it’s worth taking the time to understand what you need to record, and how, so that you avoid any delays when it

is time to file your tax return.

Embracing technology brings benefits There are advantages when it comes to managing your accounts digitally.

Online accounting allows businesses to have an up-to-date picture of their finances on a regular basis and can streamline accounting processes as many tasks that businesses used to do manually are automated. This allows businesses to remain agile and alert to both challenges and opportunities in their markets and within their business.

Conversely, the cost to businesses of introducing MTD, as well as the continuing costs of maintaining digital records and submitting quarterly updates are of concern. As is the availability, timeliness and functionality of the free software that has been promised.

While picking the right software provider will be one of the key

decisions, accountants, bookkeepers and tax advisors are going to have a substantial role in ensuring the transition to Making Tax Digital works effectively and efficiently.

With a wide portfolio of clients ranging in size and sector, Sheen Stickland has a range of tailored services from Annual Tax Returns to bookkeeping support, allowing their clients to focus on their day job and not on laborious administration.

Sheen Stickland offer a number of digital accounting solutions as a means of taking the hassle out of finances and maintaining accurate and up to date accounts for clients.

If you have any queries in respect of the matters noted above please do not hesitate to contact Sheen Stickland Chartered Accountants on enquiries@sheen-stickland.co.uk or visit www.sheen-stickland.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

Education

Education: StartUp Sussex Student Entrepreneurship Programme Ten Enterprises Progress to Finals of 2017 StartUp Sussex Student Entrepreneurship Programme...

StartUp Sussex, the annual student Educaenterprise competition at the University of tion Sussex, reached its halfway mark last week with the announcement of the ten teams that will go forward into the second phase of the programme and the chance to win prizes worth up to £10,000 in business support and services.

Each of the ten finalists will receive £500 from Santander Universities, to cover early-stage start-up costs during Phase 2 of the programme.

Services including branding, website development, or legal advice often prove to be a hurdle to getting enterprises up and running pre-income. The new Santander Entrepreneurship Awards have replaced the Santander Junior Associate

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Entrepreneurship Bursaries, which were awarded separately to the StartUp Sussex programme in previous years.

“Having seen the success of the StartUp Sussex programme in recent years, we’re delighted to become more closely involved with the scheme,” said Holly Price, University Relationship Branch Manager at Santander Universities UK. “Our renewed partnership with the University of Sussex enables us to make a difference earlier in these student entrepreneurs’ paths, and have an even greater impact. These are the business leaders of tomorrow, and it’s impressive to see so many students and graduates demonstrating a great deal of skill and initiative.”

One finalist was chosen by a peer vote, with the remaining nine decided upon by a judging panel comprised of Mike Herd, Executive Director of Sussex

Innovation, and Andrea Wall, joint acting Director of the Careers and Employability Centre. The successful founders and their enterprises are: • •

• •

Julian Bourne (BSc Finance, 4th Year) - Waffle, a chatbot for real time discounts at restaurants near you; Portia Cronje (BSc Finance & Business, 4th Year) - Beauty By Me, a web application booking platform for salon treatments and selfemployed beauticians; Dinda Jelita (BSc Economics & Management, 3rd Year) - Vorteil, a solar-powered bike light; Joanna Kmiec (MA Project Management) - Deadline.Live, a website and app linked to a Bluetooth bracelet that acts as a ‘dead man’s switch’ for those with dangerous illnesses;

Education •

•

•

•

•

•

Tammy Littlejohns (MA Strategic Innovation Management) - Hector for Projectors, developing creative content and access to it, designed for immersive home projection; Cristina Loma (MSc Management of Information Technology) - Smart Fashion, a service to help online fashion buyers get the right size in every shop; Molly Masters (BA English Literature, 3rd year) - Books That Matter, a monthly subscription box for women and girls to empower and inspire them; Hlanganiso Matangaidze (BSc Economics & Finance, 1st year) - RED, providing low cost wind turbines to rural communities in Zimbabwe as an energy source; Rosie Robinson (Anthropology, graduated 2017) - CliC, a mental health toolkit, developing sound design workshops for wellbeing in the workplace; Simon Spencer (MSc Robotics & Automation Systems) – Rushboard Technologies, a modular wearable for head-mounted displays, improving virtual, augmented and mixed reality for disabled users.

“Every year we seem to see more students pitching at this stage, and the whole field gets even stronger,” said Mike Herd. “It was a very tough decision, and there were several more worthy ideas that we could have sent through to phase two. As always, we looked for the ideas that we felt had the best chance of becoming sustainable and delivering social or economic impact, as well as those that we felt best positioned to help on their journey.”

This is the sixth StartUp Sussex competition, and the fifth year in its current, year-long format.

In a change from previous years, an additional four places for 2018 were made available to finalists competing for the Social Impact Prize. This offers a £10,000 award for enterprises delivering social benefits, and was launched earlier this year.

Phase two of the programme will see the teams begin an intensive eightweek course of mentoring in the New Year, based at the Sussex Innovation Centre. This mentoring is intended to help them shape their formal business plans ahead of a Dragons’ Den-style pitch to local investors in April.

Where are they now?

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

2015 winner Chris O’Hare is now a tenant of the Sussex Innovation Centre with his product innovation agency Hare Digital. Chris was named Graduate of the Year at the 2016 Sussex Business Awards after growing the business 400% in its first year and employing ten staff, many of them fellow graduates. Hare Digital is forecast to turnover more than £1/2 million this year.

2015 runner-up Nick Musto launched his nightlife listings and promotions app Native in Brighton that year, and won the city’s regional Young Start-Up Talent competition in 2016. The app has since successfully raised three rounds of investment and is projected to be downloaded by more than 1 million students in 20 cities by the end of this month.

2016 winner Darren Tenkorang has rolled out his barber shop reservations platform TRIM-IT across London and the South East, and was named among the top 50 young entrepreneurs in the UK by the New Entrepreneurs Foundation Scheme. The company successfully completed their seed funding round last year, and have recently pivoted into offering a mobile, door-to-door service.

2015 winner Chris O’Hare is now a tenant of the Sussex Innovation Centre with his product innovation agency Hare Digital. Chris was named Graduate of the Year at the 2016 Sussex Business Awards after growing the business 400% in its first year and employing ten staff, many of them fellow graduates.

Hare Digital is forecast to turn over more than £1/2 million this year.

2015 runner-up Nick Musto launched his nightlife listings and promotions app Native in Brighton that year, and won the city’s regional Young Start-Up Talent competition in 2016. The app has since successfully raised three rounds of investment and is projected to be downloaded by more than 1 million students in 20 cities by the end of this month.

2016 winner Darren Tenkorang [pictured, right] has rolled out his barber shop reservations platform TRIM-IT across London and the South East, and was named among the top 50 young entrepreneurs in the UK by the New Entrepreneurs Foundation Scheme. The company successfully completed their seed funding round last year, and have recently pivoted into offering a mobile, door-to-door service.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

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The Year Ahead: A Look at the World of Telecoms

2017 was an eventful year for telecoms. Here in your first issue of the year, independent expert in the field - with over 35 years of experiece in the industry - Dave Millett takes a look at what 2018 might hold for the world of telecoms

2017 was eventful for telecoms. We had the excitement of free Insight roaming in Europe and Apple introducing its first £1000 mobile.

Less positively there were also a number of reports on the poor state of UK telecoms infrastructure.

Let me look into my crystal ball to see if 2018 will provide the telecoms we need both for our daily lives, for business and to support new technologies including AI and the Internet of Things.

What’s happening with landlines?

SIP and VoIP will continue their relentless advance to replace ISDN. The crossover point has been reached; more businesses are connected by IP rather than analogue. There may be pressure to switch over but analogue will be here until 2025, so businesses that haven’t yet switched still have time. Just think carefully when signing any long-term deal.

What’s happening with mobiles?

Microsoft was recently granted a patent for a tablet device that folded up to become a phone. Apple continues to innovate and is developing a bendy

iPhone. Its US patent application talks about “a flexible portion that allows the device to be folded.” Samsung is reportedly working on its own folding phone, to be called the Galaxy X. Although a folding phone is clever, what most of us want is a phone that we only have to charge on a weekly basis.

Research from Samsung into graphene batteries may provide this for us. A graphene battery could charge fully in 12 minutes and have up to 45 per cent more capacity.

Improving battery life is key to the success of the Internet of Things (IOT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as we become an increasingly connected society. In Autumn 2017 Google unveiled a program called AlphaGo, which can master the complex Chinese game of Go in just three days. Google has a plan to put itself on an “AI first” footing. It is looking at embedding AI capability in all Google products and services. Where Google goes, others will follow; and the competing manufacturers will be looking at placing AI chips in their smartphones soon.

UK telecoms infrastructure What will happen when these exciting new developments meet the reality of

the UK’s creaking infrastructure? In 2017 we ranked 31st in the world for average broadband speeds, 54th in the world for 4G coverage, and were the worst in Europe for the rollout of Fibre to the Premise (FTTP).

The current telecoms infrastructure plans are wholly uninspiring. Leaving the operators solve the problem clearly has not worked so we have to hope that the Government and the regulators will take a tougher, more interventionist approach in 2018. The targets are outdated and, even if achieved, will still leave us lagging in the slow lane. The Government wants everyone to have access to a minimum of 10 mbps broadband by 2020. Although 10 Mbps may have been reasonable when the target was set years ago it is no longer fit for purpose. It is not suitable for the growth of the Internet of Things and the steadily increasing range of streaming services. By contrast the EU Digital Agenda goals intends to deliver 30Mbps or more for all by the same date. Japan and South Korea expect to have 5G up and working by 2020, whereas we hope for some coverage by 2025.

The operators seem to have little desire to solve the problem themselves. In terms of broadband we are the poor man of Europe. BT claims to have 345,000

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

Insight

premises connected to FTTP, but almost 30% of them are in Cornwall as part of an EU funded project.

BT’s published plans show they will barely have achieved 10% by the of 2020. On average, the rest of Europe achieved that in 2016!

So, our relative position as the slow man of Europe is unlikely to change.

There are regional variations thanks to other providers who are rolling out services such as KCOM, Gigaclear, Hyperoptic, B4RN and other “full fibre” providers. This has created a postcode lottery for getting decent FTTP broadband.

The picture with mobile is similar.

In 2014 the Government struck an “agreement” with the mobile operators.

This gave them three years to improve coverage and remove not-spots in return for the Government not enforcing roaming in the UK. Under the agreement all four of the mobile networks collectively agreed to: • •

A guaranteed £5bn investment programme to improve mobile infrastructure by 2017.

Guaranteed voice and text coverage

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

•

•

•

from each operator across 90 per cent of the UK geographic area by 2017, halving the areas currently blighted by patchy coverage as a result of partial ‘not-spots.’

Full coverage from all four mobile operators will increase from 69 per cent to 85 per cent of geographic areas by 2017.

Provide reliable signal strength for voice for each type of mobile service (whether 2G/3G/4G) – currently many consumers frequently lose signal or cannot get signal long enough to make a call.

Make the deal legally binding by accepting amended licence conditions to reflect the agreement – it will be enforceable

by Ofcom.

So what effect has that had? Not a lot! In March 2017, the National Infrastructure Commission concluded the UK is being held back by poor mobile phone connectivity. It called for an end to “digital deserts” such as rail routes, roads and city centres.

It is a sign that the Government

needs to get tough and allow everyone to roam free in the UK - just the same as we can now do in Europe.

Unfortunately, the government and its regulator have consistently bottled every tough decision in the industry for years.

Even when Ofcom introduces a good policy such as clear calling, it does not enforce it. It is almost two years since it made it mandatory to show prominently the costs of calling 084 and 087 numbers, wherever they were promoted. Yet daily there are examples of companies blatantly flouting the rules. So far Ofcom has not fined ever one for doing so.

It had to rely of the Advertising Standards Authority to toughen up the rules on broadband speeds rather than set out clear terms itself.

Given some of the financial challenges the networks and operators are having, it is important that the government and regulators intervene.

A recent report by the Economist said it expected average revenue per user (ARPU) to suffer as result of increased competition. In 2018 they expect ARPU across our 60 markets to fall by 2.3 per

Insight

cent for mobile operators, and by 11.5 per cent for fixed line. The competition in the consumer markets is coming from providers such as WhatsApp and Viber.

A survey recently showed that almost a third of people do not use their mobiles for Voice and the levels of Texts is down by almost 40 per cent since 2012. The growth of VOIP and SIP is eating into the profits historically generated by ISDN. That is the catch 22 situation; telecoms needs large amounts of capital to create new infrastructures to generate new revenues. However, often the new revenues are lower than from the old technologies they replace. A survey of operators, conducted by Ericsson, found that 86 per cent were viewing IOT as key for monetarising revenues from 5G. Add in the extra costs of improving security as cyber threats grow and regulations, such as GPDR, then there is the potential that the situation will get worse, not better.

Unfortunately, I think 2018 promises to be more of the same, unless drastic action is taken.

How can we make some real improvements? My wish list is as follows: • •

•

•

•

•

•

The Government minimum speed target should be raised annually to reflect changing demands.

Acknowledge the 2014 mobile deal has not led to the required improvement in mobile coverage and end the block on roaming in the UK. Make BT halve the wholesale cost of all broadband connections that do not meet the minimum Government speed target. With the resellers being forced to reduce their prices by half as well.

Set bold targets to offer the best infrastructure in Europe – critical if we want to attract inward investment post Brexit.

Extend the size of company protected by the Telecoms ombudsman to 50 employees, and the align other laws, such as no automatic rollovers and transparent penalties Make all consumer broadband, phone line and mobile advertising prominently carry the latest Ofcom stats on complaints received.

Properly fund the rollout of FTTP and 5G with the target of becoming world leaders by 2020 – not world laggards. You could

Dave Millett, Equinox

• •

fund it by scraping or delaying HS2.

Link the funding to heavy penalties, including loss of licences for any failure to deliver.

In the same way the oil and gas industry has benefitted from generous tax breaks for investing in the North Sea – do the same for infrastructure.

To put it another way; to get the telecoms we need for 21st century life and 21st century business we have to be doing something. That way we’ll not just have

bendy phones we’ll have world-class infrastructure.

Dave Millett has over 35 years’ experience in the Telecoms Industry.

He has worked in European Director roles for several global companies and now runs Equinox, a leading independent brokerage and consultancy firm. He regularly advises telecom suppliers on improving their products and propositions. For any further information, please visit www.equinoxcomms.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

Insight

Creating a Speech to Toastmasters International’s Simon Bucknall takes to our pages this month, delving deep into the elements of an inspiring speech. Read on for his dos and don’ts when trying to inspire an audience

Imagine the scene: a schoolboy edges to the front of his Insight class. Scuffed shoes, shabby jacket. But then he speaks.

“When you look at me, you probably think I’m a joke, but I’m not! You probably think I’ll end up in a gang, but I won’t!

Come on, be honest. You must look at me and think I won’t do anything with my life, but I WILL!” Over the years, I’ve heard thousands of speakers - from CEOs to refugees, from MBAs to primary school teachers, from university professors to politicians to the occasional prison inmate.

Few have matched the impact made by that 15 year old.

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Inspire

To say you could have heard a pin drop in that classroom would be an understatement. Was he perfect? No. (Frankly, he was a pain for much of the day.) Was he polished in his delivery? Far from it. Was he inspiring? Absolutely.

So, what is it to inspire? At work? In your community? At home?

We know the importance of inspiration.

We thirst for it. Some assume that to qualify as ‘inspirational’, you must first have a celebrated accomplishment to your name: • • • • •

Olympic gold medallist.

Presidency of a country.

CEO of a billion dollar company.

Founder of an international movement.

World record holder.

In my experience, inspiration requires none of these things. What absolutely is required, however, is certainty. Certainty in what you believe. In what you value. In what you know, deep down in your gut, to be true and important. Think about it for a moment…

Could you imagine being inspired by a ditherer? By someone who simply can’t make their mind up? Who’s never-reallyquite-sure?

Princess Diana, Martin Luther King, Steve Jobs and Mother Theresa may have expressed themselves in very different ways. What they had in common, however, was deep conviction – a clarity in their own mind regarding what they believed to be important. The impact was plain to see.

In the workplace, a leader’s ability to

Insight inspire through the spoken word has never been more highly prized. You may be rallying your team, seeking to engage the Board, presenting to shareholders or pitching to prospective customers.

So, what are the practical steps that make a difference?

Tip 1: Start with Change As human beings, we feel inspired ‘to’ do something… To feel a certain way, to think a certain way and/or to behave in a certain way. That ‘change’ is valuable.

It explains why effective speakers and leaders command the respect, recognition and fees that they do.

By contrast, the vast bulk of workplace presentations deliver little if any change at all! The focus is almost entirely on the content, with little if any thought being given to how that content might be applied by the audience members.

As a result, when the presentation ends, people leave, nothing really changes and the whole exercise has been a complete waste of time.

Ask yourself right at the outset of your preparation: What change do I want to achieve? In the room? In the minutes after they leave? Over the next few weeks?

Months, if not years from now?

Build your key messages around that clarity of purpose. By doing so, you’ll…

• • • • • • •

Deliver better – and more authentically.

Focus your energy on the audience, rather than on yourself.

Feel less ‘nervous’.

Likely include less detail (which is good!)

Leave people with something concrete to take away.

Differentiate yourself from the majority of other presenters.

Be more likely to inspire others… To change!

Tip 2: ‘Clarify Underlying Values & Beliefs’ Inspiration involves a transfer of belief. If you do not believe in your message, idea or proposal, then why should anyone else?

Values and beliefs underpin any powerful message – sometimes, they might even be the message. There is tremendous power in the clarity with which you hold them.

In relation to what you need to communicate, what DO you believe?

What DO you hold dear? Get clear on

that; harness that! For example, for my part, I absolutely believe that…

• •

•

The ability to speak powerfully is a skill, not a gift.

That as human beings we consistently underestimate the true value of our own personal experience.

That words can speak louder than actions.

These simple beliefs absolutely underpin the work that I do – and that comes across in the way that I deliver. (In my experience, mental focus is far more important for delivery than pure ‘delivery technique’).

As a simple exercise, complete the following sentence: “I absolutely believe…” Keep it simple. There is power in the single-mindedness of your answers.

Tip 3: Find the ‘Critical Moments’ in Your Stories Storytelling is often cited as the key to inspirational impact – and with good reason. Personal experience exudes Certainty. After all, you’ve lived it. You were there. No-one can dispute the fact that you’ve had that experience (assuming of course it’s genuine – so, no lies!)

What is often underestimated is the importance of drilling down into the specific ‘Critical Moments’ within those stories, to unearth the precious gems that

ignite the interest of listeners.

Critical moments are the gold of storytelling. Just like gold in the natural world, they’re not just lying around.

They have to be dug for, retrieved and refined…

Reflect for a moment on a story you’re fond of telling. What was the critical moment of that story? The tipping point, if you like. The point at which things changed. What precisely happened?

Where were you? Who was there? What was said?

Tip 4: Use Dialogue Dialogue is a very effective tool for conveying the drama of a Critical Moment. Through the use of dialogue, your story enters into the present tense.

Listeners hear the voice of the character (rather than you the speaker). Emotionally, this makes for a more intense – and so, potentially inspiring - experience.

Contrast the following two statements: ‘A member of the Danish royal family was depressed and wondering whether or not to commit suicide,’ and ‘to be or not to be.’

Give your characters a voice. If it’s you, voice your own words as they were said at the time; you’ll achieve a deeper emotional connection as a result.

We’ve covered a number of ideas in this short piece; which ONE will you take forward and apply?

For any further information, please visit www.toastmasters.org

Simon Bucknall, Toastmasters International

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

Electric

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24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

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AL

CRM Systems: Supporting your Journey to GDPR Compliance

Sussex Business Times introduces brand new Customer Relationship Magement tool, SET For Business. Here, they explain the importance of this kind of assistance for businesses ahead of the new GDPR regulations set to start in May this year...

The new GDPR regulations, coming Adverto- into effect on the 25th May 2018, will have a rial significant impact on how all UK business collect, store and secure personally identifiable information (PII).

No least effected will be Sales and Marketing departments, as prospect – and even customer – contact information will come under scrutiny, and businesses who chose not to implement effective tools to manage this data will have some serious headaches in store, and risk exposing themselves to heavy penalties.

A good CRM tool already works for you to increase customer and prospect trust and loyalty. Changing the way you handle PII to meet GDPR compliance will do the same.

At SET For Business, our development team are busy working on a number of new features to help support your compliance. These features include: Logged record access It is important that you not only store data responsibly, but also that you have knowledge of any time that data has been accessed, and who accessed it.

Last contacted & reason of entitlement In addition to our standard data fields, we are adding some GDPR-specific fields for all personal records, so that you can be confident you are entitled to reach out

to a contact, and can be alerted when this entitlement is due to expire (more on that shortly). These fields include consent date, last contacted data, reason of entitlement, consent expiry, contact method preferences (phone/email/post) and consent document file storage.

Contacts expiring & auto highlighting of expired contacts To help keep you GDPR compliant, we highlight your contacts that are approaching their consent expiry date.

Optionally, personal information can be automatically hidden from users while consent is renewed or clarified.

Bulk updates Once you’ve reviewed your customer and prospect database for what kind of personal information you have, where it comes from and what legal basis you have for keeping it, you will need a way to update all this personal data in the new GDPR world quickly and easily. Our bulk updates will help you to tune up and clean up your database quickly and easily.

Rather than updating personal records one by one, which can be time-consuming, you’ll be able to set up specific rules and use the bulk update feature to set consent date, reason of entitlement, contact method preference and expiry date on multiple records in a single click.

Right to be forgotten Truly-expired records can be redacted

from the system. We will retain enough generic data so that you still have the ability to review sales statistics, supporting continued strategic decision making, but PII will be removed.

In conclusion...

GDPR comes into effect in less than 5 months. If you don’t have a CRM system, or your current CRM system doesn’t support GDPR, then now is the time to look at SET For Business CRM. We offer a free 30-day trial to all new accounts. Once you have signed up, one of our experienced customer success managers will walk you through the system, showing off our many features including the new functionality to support your business with GDPR compliance.

For existing customers that are already using our cloud-based CRM Solution, these features will be automatically made available as they are launched.

About SET For Business CRM SET For Business is a UK-based Customer Relationship Management Tool, designed to help you track your engagements with your customers and contacts, and monitor the movement of your opportunities through your sales pipelines. Go beyond lead management and discover powerful tools to help you manage, generate and close your opportunities.

For further information, please visit www.setforbusiness.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

9 Out Of 10 Businesses Could Be At Risk... Is Yours?

Sussex Business Times introduces LawEasier, a new business that is disrupting the legal market and helping small business get affordable access to legal services

Last year the Solicitors Regulatory Authority Adverto- (SRA) released a report that showed rial some worrying facts about businesses in the UK. There are around five million small to medium sized businesses (SMEs) in the UK that make up 99 per cent of the private sector. On average, SMEs experience eight legal issues every year, which costs the sector more than ÂŁ13.6 billion per year. However, the report suggests that when small businesses need legal advice only one in ten will go to a solicitor for help.

With nine out of ten not seeking professional legal advice when they need it, what are small business owners doing?

It will probably come as no surprise that 83 per cent of small businesses regard legal services as unaffordable and consequently over

half of those that have a problem trying to resolve it on their own.

Some resort to search engines for a solution, others will copy and paste from other documents, some will seek advice from colleagues or friends and others will ignore the issue in the hope it will be OK. With no affordable access to legal services nine out of ten businesses could be relying on incorrect sources of advice which could leave them at risk or, even worse, in breach of UK business law.

In light of these worrying facts a new legal service for small businesses called LawEasier was launched late last year to address this unmet need for affordable and accessible legal support. LawEasier is considered a market disrupter, changing the way the legal market operates. It is a small business with big plans to make the law more affordable through technology for small businesses.

The LawEasier system uses AI-like legal document automation backed up by real solicitors and is nothing like any other law firm in the UK. LawEasier has members, rather than clients, who

subscribe to the service from less than the cost of a mobile phone contract.

Membership entitles the users to access an online encyclopaedic guide to business law in England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland which provides answers, insights and guidance in plain English.

Members also get access to hundreds of bespoke letters, forms and legally binding documents which they can create for themselves through a guided process.

The system asks all the questions that a lawyer would ask, creating the document as you input your answers. It is simple to use. There are no limits to how many documents a member can make or how often they use the system which means that SMEs can address most of their legal needs affordably and without engaging a traditional law firm.

One of the areas of law that many small business owners are worried about is around employing people.

LawEasier takes care of this from the job description and offer letter through to the employment contract, employee handbook and even the review forms.

Data can be copied from one document to another to save re-keying information and the system does not allow you to input anything that would breach the relevant laws and regulations.

Employment is only one of the areas covered, in fact LawEasier covers almost everything a business would need including; health & safety, intellectual property, ecommerce, sales & purchase agreements, property, debt recovery, business start-ups and lots more besides.

If you are not sure what documents you need, they have created a free ‘legal healthcheck’ that you can do online, and they provide a 14-day free trial too, so it is worth visiting www.laweasier.co.uk if you are one of the nine out of ten businesses possibly at risk.

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS Which type are you?

THE OSTRICH

THE COPY CAT

These individuals pretend that the laws that cover running a small business just don’t exist.

Need a set of T&Cs or an employment contract?

You know the type, they bury their head in the sand and pretend that everything is going to be OK because they don’t know what they should be doing to protect themselves.

No problem, he just copies and pastes from someone else. What’s the worst that could happen, it’s just a lot of small print that no one ever reads, right?

Ignorance of your obligations probably won’t wash in court.

Documents protect the business they are drafted for, they probably leave you wide open and unprotected.

THE GOOGLER

THE PUB GOER

Got a legal question? Just google it, right? Sounds like a plan but is the site you are referencing up to date and written by an actual lawyer and not some enthusiastic blogger?

Got a legal problem?

Don’t worry, i’ve got this mate down the pub who’s brother’s girlfriend did law at ‘A’ level and so she’ll know what to do”.

It’s unlikely that anything you lift from the net will protect you and your business so why risk it?

That’s wishful thinking and likely to end up with you in a worse place than when you started.

Don’t risk it!

Join us from £35 + vat pm and get unlimited access to business legal guides and bespoke legal documents to protect you and your business. (It’s great value isn’t it!)

www.laweasier.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

Property

What to Expect from Construction & Property in 2018

Sussex Business Times is delighted to announce RLF as the sponsors of our new Property section. Here, Sean Clemons provides you with the very latest information from the construction and property market AN OVERVIEW The construction is often Property industry viewed as the bellwether for the economy as it is generally the first sector to react to both downturns and upturns. After a disappointingly sluggish 2017 it appears we are on a similar course for 2018 with the Construction Products Association (CPA) predicting 0% growth over the year; which feels like a similar situation for the wider economy.

As with the wider economy the spectre of uncertainty hangs over the industry, due mainly to the ongoing saga of Brexit and what an eventual (if any) deal may

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

look like. Private sector investment is unlikely to pick up until there are some details on the deal and with us leaving the EU in March 2019 this needs to be soon, otherwise, we run the risk of investors defaulting to a ‘no deal’ position. The best outcome for the industry would be to see rapid progress on the deal over the next few months.

The impact of this uncertainty is most noticeable within the commercial sector, with the CPA predicting a 15% fall in construction output for office development. Retail is also suffering with a predicted fall of 5%. One ray of sunshine is the residential sector which is forecasting a growth of 2% for 2018. This is being driven by the demand for new

homes, supported by the government’s commitment of an additional £15bn in the last Budget. The target is to see 300,000 new homes built in 2018; an increase of over 25% on last year, which is a challenge.

While new build homes will remain buoyant there are question marks over smaller private household refurbishment projects due to a drop in consumer confidence. However, I predict that this is more likely to result in homeowners choosing to remain in their properties and carry out renovation works rather than deal with the expense of moving house.

The biggest growth sector will be in infrastructure projects with the CPA predicting a 6% rise over 2018, most

notably with works starting on HS2.

Though it is unlikely that Sussex will see much of this construction output.

SUPPLY CHAIN CHALLENGES According to the RICS, construction tender prices are unlikely to change much over 2018, however, this is a backdrop of rising labour and material prices. This is because of pressure on contractors to secure work in competition and the outcome will be contractors operating on tighter profit margins. It is this predicament of tight margins that was a major contributor in the recent Carilllion fiasco and there is a risk that other contractors could suffer the same demise.

The impact of Brexit on the exchange rate means that the cost of materials will continue to rise, but Brexit is also having an impact on the supply of labour. At the last recession there was an exodus of skilled labour from the industry and since then the sector has been heavily reliant on foreign labour. This labour is now starting to leave the UK and the industry is struggling to attract and train young people quickly enough to replace them.

The industry needs to continue working hard at making construction an attractive career proposition for young people. There is a skill shortage within the industry and large scale demand for people, however, there is still a tendency for construction to be seen as secondary to other industries.

NEW OPPORTUNITIES Within Sussex the construction industry is likely to maintain it’s existing levels, particularly due to the demand for new housing. We will also see some new opportunities and innovations begin to gain traction in 2018...

Build To Rent: This has been a growth area in the last few years, particularly in London and other major cities and I predict that 2018 will see Build to Rent schemes appearing in Sussex, particularly Brighton. Build to Rent also referred to as the Private Rental Sector (PRS) is where new housing developments are built solely for the purpose of renting. They are built by targeting the 25-35 year old demographic, with a focus on life-style living and community with facilities such as gyms, communal lounges and work spaces. These types of schemes are often developed by long term investors such as pension funds and are offering good quality rental solutions for tenants.

Sean Clemons, Partner, RLF A benefit of PRS is that affordable rental units can be more effectively incorporated into the overall scheme, which will help with the current housing affordability crisis being experienced in the South East.

Local Authority Investment: 2018 could see significant investment by local authorities in development that benefits the local economy and population. Local authorities have been able to secure low cost loans from the Public Works Loan Board since 2015, though a tightening up of the rules for investing could see a requirement that monies are invested locally. This will mean more council led housing development, as well Councils becoming speculative commercial and retail developers. If they get it right we will see more local economic growth as well as the generation of additional income streams to offset the austerity squeeze.

Grenfell Legacy: We can expect to see a massive overhaul in how fire safety is approached, but also how building regulations and control are managed.

It is critical that a new framework is established that removes the issue of no one having ownership over meeting building compliance. The process of how building work is procured is also likely to be brought into focus as the popular ‘design and build’ approach where the

risk of design is moved from designers to contractors is challenged. There have been too many instances where what was originally designed is not what is built, particularly where materials are substituted. The industry has been asking itself some probing questions and it’s time to start answering how we can perform better.

Technology: 2018 is likely to see the continued adoption of technology to improve the industry’s productivity. Expect to see more offsite modular construction.

This isn’t 1960s prefab territory, but intelligent, adaptable systems which are able to create bespoke solutions to overcome site constrictions while being of a high aesthetic quality. The use of 3D modelling and virtual reality will also, ensure better quality buildings are designed with more mistakes resolved before construction starts. I have already had the fun of donning a VR headset and ‘walking’ around a fully modelled building getting a full grasp of what it will actually be like. This will soon become the norm and mean that clients will understand what they are actually getting.

For further information, please visit www.rlf.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

LinkedIn Business Building

Introducing Psydro Here in your first issue of 2018, our cover feature focuses on that of new business on the block, Psydro – the review site with a difference. SBT outlines the company’s aims and plans for the future within such a demanding business community Never underestimate the power of Cover consumer reviews!

It turns out that Feature online reviews are very important to customers, with 92% admitting to reading them before visiting a new business and 80% trusting them as much as personal recommendations.

Customer feedback is vital for both businesses and consumers alike. It enables members of the public to gain an insight into other people’s past purchasing experiences to build confidence, while businesses can tap into the latest consumer trends and shape their services towards the current

marketplace, no matter what their sector.

In fact, recent figures show that only 9% of consumers never search online for a business.

Importance of reviews A positive online reputation is vital for any business and as one of the most powerful marketing assets, it can persuade potential new clients to get in touch or better still, it can encourage people to give companies they have never visited before a whirl–based largely on the testament of others. Helping people to make better purchasing decisions and giving them greater buying power, reviews can fast-track consumers to the checkout.

Psydro is a high-quality online review site that covers just about every industry and service that you can think of. As a valuable tool for both customers and businesses, everyone can fully embrace the marketing potential and release their inner-purchasing demons based on an established reputation.

Research shows that 92% of consumers are likely to use a business if it has a four-star rating in online reviews, while 74% believe positive reviews make a business more trustworthy. Shoppers trust consumer reviews almost 12 times more than they trust the manufacturers’ description on websites.

What’s more, consumers’ reliance on online reviews is growing. Did you

Contact: support@psydro.com Business sign up: www.psydro.com/business-verification

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Cover Feature know that 92% of consumers now read feedback, which is up from 88% in 2014? Up from 33% in 2015, 50% of consumers say they now read reviews on a regular basis. Good reviews produce an average 18% increase in sales: that really gives retailers something to aim for!

For those who wonder about the impact of negative reviews on their business, have no fear: as long as you resolve any issues quickly and efficiently, 95% of the dissatisfied customers will return. Take the positive out of the negative and listen to your customers to improve your sales strategy.

Consumers often become suspicious if there isn’t the odd negative review and 95% suspect censorship or even fake reviews if they don’t see any negative points. The odd negative review is simply a tool that can be used to work out how to do things better in future.

The history of Psydro A Brighton-based startup, Psydro has embraced the British public’s reliance on reviews by launching an online platform, where consumers can read about other people’s purchasing experiences from every sector. Site-users can also write about their own shopping encounters

(good or bad) to help others make informed decisions.

Co-founders, Ben Page and Tony Ward, extensively researched other forums to find out what consumers really wanted before they set about launching their own user-friendly site–which is based on a combination of the findings of their research and their own unique and innovative ideas.

Rewards Psydro’s impartial service provides benefits to buyers, sole traders and international corporations. It also offers a rewards scheme to consumers who use the platform regularly: The Gamification feature will recognise you if you are going all out to help fellow shoppers make informed decisions!

For the real review crusaders out there, you can benefit from prizes and experiences which are changed monthly.

“Newbies” can climb the ladder and rise through the rankings to be enrolled in the rewards scheme.

Consumers who register on the site can write an unlimited number of reviews.

They will be ranked from one to six, with six being the highest level, which is for people who have written 250 or more reviews.

There are also regular competitions which anyone can enter simply by contributing a review (winners are randomly selected). Offering some spectacular prizes including a PlayStation 4 bundle, a 42-inch LED television, an iPad and a Cannon Power Shot camera, the Psydro Christmas competition is up and running as we speak. So, when you’ve finished reading this article, why not take a few minutes to visit the site and leave a review?

Mobile app The beauty of Psydro is that it is free for everyone to use. There are no joining fees or ongoing subscriptions. Simply create your account, log in and you’re off.

Consumers can contribute to the site on any mobile device by downloading the Psydro app, which is available from Google Play and App Store. You can leave real-time reviews and upload any relevant images.

Get this: with the Psydro app, if you happen to be in a retail store pondering over a particular product… you can simply check the Psydro reviews at the click of a button!

Consumers can also benefit from the introduction of website plugins for popular platforms such as WordPress, Magento and Shopify. These will link with the Psydro website. To get the best out of the Psydro platform, new users can sign up as a business or as an individual consumer.

Psydro aims to keep improving its service on all platforms. While 78% of consumers say they use a PC as the main method of reading reviews, more than 50% use more than one device.

So, keeping the platform current and accessible using the latest technology is an important consideration.

Informative and fun, Psydro actively reviews all the feedback it receives from businesses and consumers to continually improve its site’s functionality and content.

In today’s climate, when 92% of consumers search for online reviews before using a business, the importance of bringing reviews together at the touch of a button is ever-growing.

Consequently, no business can afford to ignore the massive marketing potential created by online reviews to prove their reliability, expertise and professionalism in an increasingly competitive market TRUST IS GAINED, NOT GIVEN.

Contact: support@psydro.com www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk Business sign up: www.psydro.com/business-verification

31

Cover Feature

What is Psydro?

Psydro is an online review platform where consumers can read and write reviews about goods and services from all sectors. As a caring and sharing community, it enables people to read about the personal experiences of others, thus helping everyone to make more informed purchasing decisions. Psydro invites you to tell it like it is!

Why was Psydro launched?

Co-founders Ben Page and Tony Ward researched other forums to try and establish what consumers really wanted.

Careful consideration has also been given as to how a review platform can really help a business to improve and grow. Psydro provides a user-friendly, impartial service to benefit everyone… you, me, sole traders and international businesses…EVERYONE! The main aim from the onset has been to give the power to the people… and have a little fun along the way!

What makes Psydro different?

Psydro offers consumer insights into a multitude of different categories that cover every sector, including fashion and clothing, health and beauty, electrical, sports, gambling, food and drink, travel, property and home, services, automotive, entertainment and more. We care, because we know you care How can Psydro help my business?

It’s a fact that 92% of online shoppers

check out reviews before they make a Can I use Psydro on my mobile? final decision on a purchase, so for a For use on mobile devices, Psydro’s business that delivers complete customer app is available from the App Store satisfaction, it’s rewarding and useful and Google Play. Consumers can leave to receive a great review. Reviews can real-time reviews and they even upload also help with SEO - they can achieve images. It’s fun, engaging and easy to advertising use. benefits without the financial risks How do the ranks “It turns out that associated with work on the online reviews are Search Engine Psydro website?

Optimisation. very important to Let the fun Businesses are begin! Psydro’s customers, with 92% invited to add Gamification admitting to reading a description of scheme recognises their company them before visiting regular users and Psydro will who are leaving a new business and give them 10 reviews and they 80% trusting them tags to provide can receive prizes more visibility and experiences as much as personal with site users. which are changed recommendations.”

For anyone who regularly. Users receives a less are given rankings than favourable that recognise their review… Well, this gives you the status as a contributor. Anyone who has opportunity to get things right! written one to four reviews is classed as a “newbie” but as they work their Why should I use Psydro as a way up the point scoring ranks, they will consumer? automatically be enrolled in the rewards Psydro can help consumers to get scheme. the service they deserve. Marketing tactics can make it difficult to gauge the Is Psydro free? accuracy and authenticity of advertising The best things in life are FREE! Psydro’s hype - but nothing is more reliable than main service will always be free, but the views of real people, as they tend the company has aspirations to include to give a neutral perspective on their something for everyone - as a result, new experiences. As my headmaster always features will be added, both paid for and used to say, honesty is the best policy! free.

Contact: support@psydro.com Business sign up: www.psydro.com/business-verification

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Check out our competitions ~ www.psydro.com/competition

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

Health & Wellbeing

Health and Wellbeing:

Heads, Shoulders, Knees and...

Make sure you’re fighting fit for work and play this 2018. We have enlisted the help of specialists from The Montefiore Hospital in Hove to bring you a top-to-toe health guide. There are self-help tips for eight common problems and advice on when to seek medical help Snoring Falling asleep over your desk because Health & you or your Wellbeing either partner snores at night? Then it’s time to take action. If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is greater than 25, losing weight might help. Alter your sleeping position - use pillows to prevent you from rolling onto your back where you are more likely to snore, eat earlier in the evening and reduce alcohol intake particularly before bedtime, and

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

stop smoking. Treat nasal problems like allergies effectively as this may be causing the snoring.

One in ten people suffer from sleep apnoea and may stop breathing for several seconds while they are sleeping.

Seek medical advice if you regularly wake up feeling very tired, as sleep apnoea can affect blood pressure leading to increased risk of heart attacks or stroke. You may be referred to a specialist for further investigation.

Solutions to reduce snoring include topical nasal medications and devices

which move the jaw forward and widen the airways. Surgery is a last resort but can eliminate snoring for good. (Mr Simon Watts, Consultant Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon).

Heartburn Do you suffer with heartburn and embarrassing belching? It is a common problem caused by acid reflux and can also make you feel nauseous and make your breath smell. Reduce the symptoms by losing weight or stop smoking. Don’t rush your meals and avoid food triggers such as

Health & Wellbeing spicy food, fizzy drinks and alcohol.

Try to leave at least three hours after a meal before going to bed and sleep with your head propped up at night. Take antacids, available from the chemist, within an hour of eating or as soon as symptoms occur. If symptoms continue, your GP may prescribe acid suppression tablets such as ranitidine and more powerful drugs called ‘proton pump inhibitors.’ You may be referred for an endoscopy to assess whether there is inflammation of the gut and to rule out other problems such as stomach ulcers or gallstones. (Dr Khaleel Jamil, Consultant Gastroenterologist).

Be breast aware All women should be breast aware regardless of age, size or shape. This means understanding what is normal for you and telling your doctor if you notice a change.

Get used to looking at your breasts in the mirror and feeling them in the bath or shower regularly.

There is no special way to feel your breasts but ensure that you check all parts of the breast, your armpit and collarbone.

Most breast changes are natural changes and not due to breast cancer.

However, it is important that you find out what is causing the changes from a health professional.

Changes to report are: size or shape, an area that feels thickened, skin texture such as puckering or dimpling,

redness or rash around the nipple, nipple that looks different or discharging liquid without being squeezed, swelling in armpit or collarbone, or pain that is present most of the time. (Lynette Awdry, Hospital Matron and a specialist breast nurse).

Tennis elbow You don’t have to play tennis to suffer with this condition which causes pain around the outside of the elbow. It’s most common in 30-50 years old and is due to repetitive use of the forearm muscles, either at work or during sport. You might find it painful to fully extend your arm or grip small objects such as a pen.

The first step is to rest your arm and take anti-inflammatories. Hold a cold compress against your elbow for a few minutes every day. Your GP may also prescribe a cortisone (steroid) injection.

Alternatively, blood-based injections help repair the damaged tendon and may provide a longer lasting solution to the problem than cortisone. Physiotherapy may also be recommended. Surgery to remove the damaged part of the tendon is reserved for severe cases. (Mr Joideep Phadnis, Consultant Orthopaedic Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon).

Arthritis in the hands Osteoarthritis in the thumb is the most common form of arthritis that affects the hand, and women are more likely to get it than men. It is particularly common among manual workers, and symptoms tend to start in later life, around the age of 60-plus. The pain, stiffness and swelling extend to where the thumb joins the wrist and can decrease your grip strength and affect your ability to do even simple tasks like turning a door knob.

Dietary supplements such as Glucosamine and fish oils may help, and hand exercises can improve the range of movement. Ice the joint to ease pain and take anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen. Your doctor may prescribe a steroid injection, or recommend a thumb splint which will help decrease pain, encourage the correct position for your thumb, and rest the joint, especially at night. For more severe cases, surgery includes replacing the thumb joint with an artificial one to give pain relief and restore movement. (Mr Chris Williams, Consultant Orthopaedic Hand Surgeon).

Endometriosis Are you the one in ten women affected

by endometriosis, the commonest cause of pelvic pain? This disease causes heavy periods, and affects the bowel and bladder, making it painful to go to the toilet. It can also reduce your chances of getting pregnant.

Often women put off going to the doctor because they think the symptoms are normal. It is also difficult to diagnose, and there is often a long delay between a woman going to a doctor about her symptoms and being diagnosed – up to six years on average. An ultrasound examination or laparoscopy, where a small telescope is inserted into the tummy, will confirm a diagnosis of endometriosis.

Regular exercise and switching to a healthy balanced diet can help. Treatment can include the ordinary contraceptive pill or progesterone hormone to help with pain. For women with moderate to severe symptoms, or who are trying to become pregnant, keyhole surgery usually offers the best results in terms of pain relief and enhanced fertility. (Mr James English, Consultant Gynaecologist).

Sciatica Anyone who has ever experienced sciatica knows how agonising it can be and how it can impact on daily life, even affecting their ability to work (5 million working days a year are lost due to back pain). Pain radiates down the lower back into the buttocks, back of the legs to the feet, and it can cause numbness.

It is due to compression of the sciatic nerve in the spine, most commonly caused by a prolapsed disc. In most cases, symptoms will improve with rest, painkillers and time. Use hot and cold packs on the lower spine and try stretching exercises. Avoid lying or sitting for too long as this can worsen the condition.

For persistent sciatica, a nerve root block, injected under X-ray guidance, can reduce the painful inflammation. If this doesn’t help, surgery may be necessary.

This involves removal of the disc prolapse which is compressing the affected nerve root. It can be done minimally invasively and usually involves a one-night stay in hospital. (Mr Shuaib Karmani, Consultant Orthopaedic Spinal Surgeon).

Knee pain A quarter of all UK workers suffer from painful knees and surprisingly it affects those who are desk-bound as much as it does those whose jobs involve heavy

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

Health & Wellbeing manual labour.

Years of poor posture while sitting at a desk increase the potential for knee pain.

It starts with pain doing simple activities, such as getting out of a chair or going up and down stairs, but these are warning signs that action should be taken. First, address the position of your chair and desk to prevent you from slouching.

Regularly do simple stretching exercises for your hamstrings and quadriceps muscles while sitting at your desk.

Maintain a healthy weight to take pressure off the knees when standing. Avoid high impact sports and try yoga or pilates to make your joints more flexible. Use ice and elevate your knee when possible to reduce the pain, and take antiinflammatories. If knee pain persists, then physiotherapy and a consultation with a knee specialist to rule out other problems, is advisable. (Mr Sandeep Chauhan, Consultant Orthopaedic Knee Surgeon).

Advice from specialists at The Montefiore Hospital, Hove, recently awarded an overall ‘Outstanding’ rating by the country’s health watchdog, the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

01273 828148 www.themontefiorehospital.co.uk

The Montefiore Hospital in Hove

Dr Khaleel Jamil

Lynette Awdry

Mr James English

Mr Shuaib Karmani

Mr Joideep Phadnis

Mr Simon Watts

Mr Chris Williams

Mr Sandeep Chauhan

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

FRESH CLEANING & MAINTENANCE

CLEANING SERVICES Fresh Cleaning Services are a Sussex based, family owned commercial and domestic cleaning company. Fresh Cleaning has been established for over 10 years.

We pride ourselves on offering a personal touch to each individual client. Our staff are fully trained and achieve high standards which we expect and maintain for our clients.

WHAT WE OFFER: • Office Cleaning • Stripping and resealing floors • Carpet Cleaning • Consumables provided • Free estimates and advice • Driveways, patios and flagstone jet washed • Washroom services • Fully insured • Competitive rates • Testimonies available • Initial ‘spring clean’ to all new contracts • Visits from management to client sites

Tel: 07976 568241 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk d.stephens@fresh-clean.co.uk • www.fresh-clean.co.uk

37

Advertorial

Great Brands are Built from the Inside Out

This month, Silverback Studios look at the important part internal communications have to play in your marketing plan. If you get it right, it can have a positive effect on your business.

Companies spend large amounts of money on external marketing but Advertorial sometimes overlook internal marketing and comms for employees.

We believe that great brands are built from the inside out. If you focus on your employees and ensure that they have a clear understanding of your company strategy and a common goal to work towards, this helps develop a cohesive culture. It empowers employees to make the right decisions in line with the company vision, promoting greater efficiency, productivity and happiness.

Long term your employee satisfaction can be reflected directly onto your customers by delivering better service.

Many employers spend a lot of time recruiting, interviewing and hiring but not enough time focusing on the new starter experience. All too often, it is chaotic and disorganised; a new employee arrives at work on their first day, excited at the prospect of a new job to find they don’t have an allocated desk or a computer and they are given out of date materials to read. They may then go away feeling disappointed and unfortunately it can be a downhill spiral from there, with many new recruits leaving an organisation within the first year. With some careful planning and the right materials, you can make the new employee process a positive experience.

We are not claiming to be HR experts but from a brand perspective we do know that having a joined up internal and external brand strategy can have a positive effect on business. Some simple steps to ensure employees really understand the company strategy, goals and the part they will play in reaching those goals can greatly help with employee satisfaction, retaining staff and attracting new talent in the future.

Harwoods Group appreciates the importance of staff retention and making a good first impression. They came to us last year to ask us to help them design their new starter materials. As a high-end car dealership, the design needed to be professional and slick whilst appealing to

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

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a broad range of employees and getting across the friendly, family feel of the business. We designed a Welcome Pack containing essential documents for the new starter to complete, return or keep and a Log Book for the new employee with Pit Stops to track their Induction Journey for the first 6 months. In addition we designed a Support Guide for Managers to help monitor their progress. The documents tied in with a version on the Harwoods intranet for them to track their Journey online.

“ We believe it’s added enormous value to the new starters and leads the way in our industry…

Silverback’s insight, creativity, professionalism and natural rapport with their clients made it a pleasure to partner up with them.”

Archie Harwood, Director, Harwoods Ltd

A bit about Silverback Studios As a full service design agency, we pride ourselves on being able to cater to all your brand’s requirements; from brand strategy, naming and logo design to guidelines, print, website design and digital media.

Our clients’ aspirations always come first, so we listen to what you need, bring fresh thinking to your brand and help you get the best results.

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Sussex Business Awards

The Importance of Social Media in 2018

Here, company formation experts, Turnerlittle.com examine Office of National Statistics (ONS) data on social media usage amongst British enterprises, as well as consider the main reasons why getting social with your businesses should be your New Year’s Resolution With an estimated new social media user every 15 Social seconds, there has Media never been a better time to turn your business’ social media strategy up a notch in 2018.

According to ONS statistics, only 60% of businesses are using social media.

However, those who use a professional blog provide an even bleaker number at a mere 42% running a blog for their business. Indeed, there has been a very small increase in businesses entering the blogosphere since 2016, a mere 12.9%, despite the myriad of benefits this can bring, including aiding your SEO efforts, driving traffic to your site and even establishing yourself as an authoritative figure in your business’ industry.

Although small businesses would benefit the most from blogging, Turnerlittle.com revealed that only 38.9% were doing so, compared to 80.4% of companies with over a thousand employees. Unsurprisingly, the Information and Communications (IT) sector blogged the most, with 67.6% of companies stating that they have a blog.

Transport and Storage sectors blogged the least according to the study at only 21.7%. The Retail sector, although better at blogging overall, has seen the smallest increase in this activity since 2013 at a tiny +1.6%.

In Britain, on average, only 60%

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of businesses have a social media presence. However, for small businesses this statistic is even lower, standing at 57.6%. Compare this to enterprises with more than one thousand employees, where 90.3% use social media. Even fewer small businesses link or reference their social media pages on their website, as only 49.5% do so.

Research has revealed that 1 in 5 small businesses will not be investing in social media in 2018. Yet, according to the ONS report, most businesses, across various sectors, cited that they mainly use social media to ‘develop the business’ image or market products’ (23.2% stated this).

The second most common reason was to ‘obtain or respond to customers’

opinions, reviews, and questions’.

These are two vital reasons to be present on social networks, especially when you consider that 77% of Twitter uses stated that they feel more positive about a brand when their tweet has been replied to.

A social presence is equally important when seeking new prospective customers. A whopping 39% of social media users believe that finding out about products and services is an important reason for using a social network.

Indeed, when questioned, 13% of social media users said they had clicked an advertisement within the last 30 days. www.turnerlittle.com

James Dempster

Ringing in the New Year, Cissbury Style Cobb Digital’s Managinng Director, James Dempster returns to our pages here in our Janauary issue to bring you the first of his monthly columns. This month in particular focuses on the history of one of the most well-known sites in West Sussex...

“

I’m very excited that with the New Year I’m going to be adding a monthly article bringing historical aspects of Sussex to the business community. Some of them will be relatively well-known, some will be obscure and some will be on your doorstep – but hopefully all of them will be entertaining.

To begin with, we’re going to start with one of the oldest known sites in West Sussex (East, don’t worry you’ll get some historical love as well, just not this month).

For those of you who like a walk, love the outdoors and like to imagine Sussex before A roads; Cissbury Ring is for you. Known as “The most historic hill on the South Downs,” its pedigree is clear.

Situated in the borough of Worthing at a height of 602 feet, the “Ring” encloses 24 hectares and has history dating back to Neolithic (later stone age) times.

Although it’s arguably better known for being an Iron Age hill fort, the focus for the article is its flint mining days of circa 4000 BC. My favourite bogus fact about the hill is that it was known as “Caesar’s hill”, from a rumour that the man himself set up camp there. I love that thought, but sadly there is no evidence this happened at all. Too bad. The thought that one of the most influential leaders was able to look at the site where the Brighton and Hove training ground would one day be built is entertaining but extremely unlikely.

Roughly a third of the area of the “ring” provided the Neolithic inhabitants with over 270 mine shafts. With this volume of shafts and evidence left behind still visible today (flint debris such as chippings), there is no doubt that Cissbury Ring was at the heart of tool production in Neolithic Britain. Pretty exciting!

Surface flint would have been identified, but this was brittle and not much use for crafting or providing defence, so shafts

were dug to extract the deeper lying stones. This does beg the question: “what was used to dig these shafts if they needed stronger material for tools?”

Luckily, the plucky Neolithic Worthingites had the answer – animal bones.

These shafts had a diameter of up to 36 metres, so were pretty serious projects to undertake. Archaeologists have found evidence of deer antlers being used as picks and ox shoulder blades used as crude shovels. Pretty creative, hey?

Over six thousand years have passed and we’re still seeking ways to make life easier, I find that strangely comforting.

Once back on the surface, the flint would be processed and “made good,” which is exactly why we have evidence of flint chips today. The flint would have been used both locally and throughout

trade routes to make weapons, prestige ornaments and other useful tools. Sussex has continued to export great products both nationally and internationally since.

As mentioned earlier, the ring has gone on to be used as an Iron Age fort along with a potential Saxon Mint but one thing that hasn’t changed is the peace and tranquillity enjoyed atop the hill. In a world of noise, deadlines and instant replies, treat yourself to a walk to the top of one of Sussex’s most loved hills. It’s easy to picture yourself away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, instead foraging for flint like our Sussex ancestors.

”

For any further information please visit www.cobbdigital.com, or contact James direct via james@cobbdigital.com

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Working Lunch:

Gars Chinese Restaurant Sussex Business Times has teamed up with local businessman and founder of Yelo Architects, Andy Parsons for this months restaurant review. Here in these pages, he gives us his thoughts on the famous Gars Chinese restaurant in Brighton I’m often looking for venues for a business Lunch lunch to take a client or a consultant we’re Review working with or hoping to work with, and it doesn’t take long to establish a list of favourites with the right combination of food, service and an ambiance that is lively but still allows you to hold a conversation easily.

Every three months I host a property networking lunch for up to 20 people and that really takes some organising. Not only do you need a restaurant that can take that number of people in a dedicated area, but you’re also looking for a venue

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that is easy to deal with. We’re a group of business owners and its a lunch club that has been going for a number of years, so we’re reliable, although its amazing how some restaurant managers don’t understand that.

Recently one well-known Brighton restaurant asked us for a £1750 deposit, demanded every meal ordered up front and took 5 weeks to provide the menu, which then didn’t include a single fish or vegetarian dish, needless to say we didn’t book.

So with only a couple of weeks until the date I reverted to an old favourite that I knew would deliver on ease of booking, availability, food and service -

Gars Restaurant in Prince Albert Street, Brighton.

Gars is a lovely restaurant to go to and I’m sure many SBT readers have been there for a romantic or family meal. I must add though, it’s also great for business functions. As well as the main restaurant, they also have a function room downstairs that I’ve been a few times for a drinks and buffet event. I recently attended the launch of the SO Legal Brighton office (which featured in last month’s Society pages) and they booked the main room upstairs, which worked particularly well for a larger party.

So on a Friday lunchtime in December twelve of us from the Mates in Business

Lunch Review

lunch group rocked up at Gars after a warm up beer in The Cricketers. Minky and his staff were pleased to see us (we were a little late after the beer became beers; plural... They had a table for us in the main upstairs room of the restaurant.

A circular table for a networking lunch is great as its so inclusive for all of the conversations, although typically we were so wrapped up in talking we’d completely neglected the menus in front of us!

Fortunately the Gars staff recognised this and subtly suggested they just bring a selection of dishes for us all to share.

However I’m a bit of a pain in restaurants, as for 15 years, I’ve been gluten intolerant. I’ve had some terrible gluten free meals over the years, particularly with large organisations that really should try harder - airlines I’m looking at you here… There’s a very well known Brighton seafront hotel that seems to be hopeless, so I always avoid any function there - three sprigs of plain asparagus was once one of their starters, which I think speaks for itself...

Fortunately Gars are very allergy aware and said it was no problem and they would bring me my own selection.

Everyone else on the table tucked

into Sesame prawns on toast, quick fried chicken in salt and chilli, tempura vegetables and barbecue ribs. Whereas my gluten free starters platter had crispy seaweed, quick fried squid in salt and chilli and Vietnamese spring rolls. The starters were great and helped to take the edge off the warm up beers we’d devoured.

Mains were another banquet of dishes and the staff highlighted which ones were gluten free. If I recall correctly we had Kung Po style chicken, sizzling fillet steak in black pepper & soy sauce, fillet of seabass steamed in ginger and spring onion, roast belly pork with pak choi, Fried shredded chilli beef and aubergine hot pot toban style.

All of the food was absolutely faultless, I can’t think of any other restaurant in Sussex that I’ve been to multiple times and yet have always thought the food was amazing.

Per head we paid £70, which bearing in mind it was one of those Friday afternoon four hour lunches with plenty of wine, is good value.

So in summary I’d highly recommend Gars for any business function from a two person business lunch through to larger events.

Since opening in 1983, the familyrun Gars Chinese restaurant turned out to be an institution in Brighton.

The Gars family moved from Hong Kong to Brighton in 1955, bringing with them traditional values, a great working ethos, and a desire to create something that reflected both their journey and their new home.

Gars Chinese Restaurant 19 Prince Albert St, Brighton 01273 321321

Andy Parsons, Managing Director of Yelo Architects

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Hotel Review:

Hotel Pelirocco

This month, Sussex Business Times is shaking it up. We took to the beautiful city of Brighton once again, this time to review all that the peculiar Hotel Pelirocco has to offer its guests...

Something very different this month in Hotel terms of reviews – the Hotel Pelirocco is a Review breath of fresh air for those of you looking for a business space different to the usual white walled clinical conference rooms commonly used for business spaces.

The hotel is famous nationwide for its eccentric themed bedrooms and rock and roll glamour. The name loosely means “red head” in Spanish and it doesn’t disappoint, fiery, glamorous and attractive in every sense. Since 2000, the hotel opened with a mission statement to fill the gap in the market between the standard B&B’s and the upmarket but

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functional business hotels readily available everywhere.

Packed to the brink with art and decadent décor, the Hotel Pelirocco is the quirky alternative choice for business meetings and stays. I reviewed this on a Sunday evening expecting quiet and calm – it was anything but, with a DJ and a bustling busy bar. That is no criticism – it is the perfect place for a distraction and business entertainment, with music and a wild, wacky crowd without even having to leave the hotel. The wallpaper in the bar, and the fascinating retro artwork covering almost every inch of every single floor is worth the visit, even without the stay. It is a destination venue and I struggle to think of anywhere in the UK that could take your mind off your troubles more

quickly than this place. The hotel is a welcome, instant assault on the eyes, ears and senses, taking you to a darker but definitely more chilled out world.

Not your typical business place, you might think, and whilst I agree, I would thoroughly recommend a night’s stay in this rock and roll wonderland. There are 19 different themed rooms, including rooms such as the Gresham Blake or the Modrophenia. The website details them all and is worth a look. I was greeted on arrival at the reception, which looks like an old club cloakroom entrance. I received a friendly welcome with a warm invite to the bar once I had settled in. I was lucky enough to stay in the brand new Koibito Love room. It is a Japanese themed room with a large platform bed,

Hotel Review

and the deepest bath I have ever seen.

Clean and very trendy, the attention to detail of the theme was spectacular. In my room there were kimonos, a small floor table with comfortable cushions, and the most impressive Japanese graffiti wall. Complimentary tea and coffee and instead of biscuits, a Curly Wurly! Whilst I did not sample the delights, there is also a very naughty range of room service available, let’s just say “toys,” and I suspect that even the most uptight of us would benefit from a night sharing the bed of this wonderful space.

I digress! Which is very easy to do in this hotel. Back to business. The free Wi-Fi was quick and easy to access. The breakfast was very quiet, I was alone in the breakfast room. I suspect the rock and roll of the previous evening will provoke most guests into making use of the 12pm standard check out time. This can be extended to 2pm for the real hardcore ravers. I ordered a good old bacon sandwich and was more than happy with the fresh coffee and great quality local ingredients, served with a smile by the lovely Jen. I also met the welcoming and chatty Bar Manage,r Alice who was very knowledgeable about the hotel’s services for businesses.

On a little tour of the hotel I discovered that it more than serves the needs of the local business community too. There is a private conference room which, by night is used as the Singstar Room, and by day provides a perfect corporate environment for business events and presentations. It is undeniable that the business service of the hotel is more suited in particular, to trendy, arty businesses who are “bored of beige,” with a need to impress as well as

educate their delegates. Interestingly the hotel also offers a full business experience including the meeting room hire, in-house catering, accommodation and breakfasts at a very affordable rate.

There is a Business 2 Business scheme set up for those looking to use this original boutique hotel to accommodate clients on a more regular basis, with prices as low as £49 per head including single room with complimentary cooked breakfast with an automatic upgrade to a double room where available.

Sadly I suspect this hotel gets overlooked by the business community as a little too niche or alternative. I can see why, the target market is the alternative crowd, especially lovers ready for a hedonistic night. Strangely this is exactly the reason I would recommend it for a business event. It caters for every

need, both inside and outside of work.

Choosing this hotel for a business event or stay might be seen as a risk for those wanting business credibility and respect.

However the rewards, if it pays off, would most certainly demand the respect and gratitude of even your most square colleagues. I struggle to see how anyone could leave this hotel not feeling like the coolest person on the planet.

Check out the Hotel Pelirocco website for the enticing prices, www.hotelpelirocco.co.uk Hotel Pelirocco 10 Regency Square Brighton BN1 2FG 01273 327055

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NEWS

Motivate, Inspire and Grow Professionally - Training that Grows your Business Sussex Business Times has partnered with Sussex Chamber of Commerce again this month, who here in these pages, provide you with the latest news

T

he Sussex Chamber of Commerce is proud to be introducing new training courses from April this year. Make 2018 a year of dynamic change for your business – invest in training. Training isn’t just important to any company, it is vital. Training across your workforce, from shop floor to executive level and in any discipline, improves competitiveness, morale, profitability, market share, customer satisfaction and company reputation and profile.

In these uncertain times training increases your ability to respond effectively to change.

Accredited courses in international trade The British Chambers of Commerce has nationally accredited ten international trade courses delivered by the Sussex Chamber to form an import and export curriculum, giving international traders the essential skills invaluable to small and large businesses alike. During each one-day course the candidates must demonstrate knowledge of the subject and their performance is marked by an external assessor.

Our highly respected international trade courses cover all the main principles of international trade dealings for your freight and logistics

teams. For those involved with freight, logistics and warehousing we also now have courses that will cover air cargo security and the carriage of dangerous goods.

Training for the business owner Engaging in a robust PR strategy is a highly cost-effective alternative to advertising, as it not only raises awareness of your product or brand, but it also helps build important relationships and identify key stakeholders in your business. Our Managing the Media course will make sure that you know what to say, when and how to say it, to ensure that you create a positive impression when that important media opportunity comes your way.

Learn how to identify, prioritise and register your Intellectual Property to protect against copycats and create financial value for future growth and capitalisation. Your brand and inventions can literally be hijacked by a competitor who took the time to register trademarks, designs and patents in your space.

Imagine spending painstaking years of your life building a successful business then someone comes along and legally forces you to pay them any profits you have made, just because you infringed copyright without realising it. Ignorance is no defence and all profits can be claimed retrospectively. Smart management of

your trademarks will be a key takeaway from our IP course.

Negotiation skills, selling skills and great customer service Understanding the science of persuasion is crucial to effective negotiation and we now offer courses that will show you how to spot and how to use the gambits of successful bartering and position taking, essential skills for your purchasing department. Selling is fundamental to every business and we provide courses that offer direct results…

And once you’ve won that new business keeping those customers becomes even more important. Our new trainers bring considerable expertise to building effective client relationships that last and delivering customer service that goes beyond expectations. You staff will become more skilled at handling customers over the telephone or face to face and learn new techniques to build long term customer loyalty. They’ll find out how to establish customer’s real needs, build rapport, and manage those very difficult customer situations where you’re looking for a win-win for both you and your customer.

Improve productivity and staff effectiveness Transitioning from an operational role to a supervisory or team leader role can

www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk / 01444 259259

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Chamber News

be one of the most difficult things to do. Our courses will prepare your staff for that role, they’ll gain a clear idea about their responsibilities and the managerial skills involved to lead authentically, delegate and motivate your staff.

Workplace stress and workplace bullying is on the rise. Develop the emotional intelligence to handle difficult situations and mindfulness techniques to avoid those situations.

Creating a great working environment has been shown to improve productivity. Similarly, our Time Management courses will not only help your staff to be more productive but also better manage their time to avoid stress in the first place.

New courses covering business writing skills will provide you with the skills to create winning proposals and you will gain the ability to spot common mistakes that get proposals rejected. Effective business writing skills can benefit all levels of staff, writing proposals, emails and presentations that deliver calls to action, that sell, that persuade.

With more and more businesses

moving to constantly upgraded versions of Excel and Word, it’s time your staff understood how to make the best use of these powerful tools.

Our IT trainers will take your staff on that journey, and your staff will appreciate your commitment to their career development.

HR courses With our courses you’ll see reductions in staff turnover and absenteeism, and importantly, a reduction in recruitment costs. Manage the life journey of an employee from recruitment to exit more effectively using best employment practice.

Other courses will train you in more effective recruitment interviewing skills and coach you in improving employee engagement generally.

The benefits of training will resonate through your organisation.

Written by Richard Cox, Customer Relationship Executive, Sussex Chamber of Commerce.

For any further information, plwase visit the Sussex Chamber of Commerce website, details below.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk / 01444 259259

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Vince’s Verdict At the start of a brand new year, SBT is delighted to welcome Rivervale as the sponsors of our motoring section.

Here in these pages, Chief Operating Officer at Rivervale, Vince Pemberton gives his verdict on some important motoring matters

Q

THE DIESEL DILEMMA IDLES ON INTO 2018, CAUSING CONFUSION FO DRIVERS WHEN SELECTING THEIR NEXT CAR. IS THE RECENT BAD IMAGE OF DIESEL FAIR? Let me start by saying, absolutely everyone needs to be doing their best to reduce air pollution, whether that be manufacturers making products less polluting, or people walking 10 minutes to the local shop instead of driving. The effects of air pollution are wide, from a hole in the O-Zone layer, a contributory factor in global warming and many adverse health effects.

However, could it be possible that we have focused so much on marking out diesel vehicles as the worst offenders when it comes to air pollution, that we have become blinded to the facts that may indicate otherwise?

Diesel vehicles are attractive to drivers as you get low fuel consumption, without losing any performance. In fact, on average diesel engines are thought to use 20% less fuel than petrol equivalents. For years fuel economy was the main consideration before a car purchase.

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Now, this financial consideration is being overtaken by concerns about the negative image driving a diesel car might portray, and encouraging many to switch to petrol.

We should consider the effect on CO2 levels while we are all focusing on NOx. Diesel cars were originally favoured as they had lower CO2 emissions than petrol engines.

Statistics show that since 2002 the use of diesel vehicles has saved 3.5 million tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere. If we now demonise diesel and people start favouring petrol, won’t we replace the NOx problem with a return to a CO2 problem?

There is a divide between older diesel engines and new models.

When we consider the very first Euro 1 legislation in 1992, the limit for NOx emissions was set at 0.97g/km. The recent Euro 6 legislation set this limit to 0.08g/km – this is a massive decrease of over 90%.

Diesel technology has become so advanced that almost 99% of soot particulates are now removed by filters.

Particulate filters have been fitted on every diesel vehicle since 2011, now

half of all diesel vehicles on our roads have this type of filtration system. Even the NOx is now being effectively dealt with by being turned into Nitrogen and Water which are harmless. Euro 6 diesels are the cleanest yet and this can be seen by these engines being classified as Ultra Low Emissions, and so charge free, when the Ultra-Low Emissions Zone replaces the London T-Charge in 2019.

Regardless of which Euro standard a diesel vehicle falls into, SMMT found around half of the NOx in London is caused by traffic, and of this only 11% by diesel vehicles. It is claimed the best way to reduce air pollution is to keep vehicles moving on the roads – should we be exploring ways of reducing congestion in the battle to breathe fresher air?

It seems to me we are doing a disservice to manufacturers who have made massive technological and engineering advances in their diesel engines to label all diesel engines in the same way. I do not believe new diesel engines deserve the reputation of the worst polluters, and drivers of such cars do not deserve to be seen as enemies of the environment.”

N

PAUL ROGERS SIGNS A NEW DEAL IN A NEW DIVISION Paul ‘Dodge’ Rogers, a local footballing legend, put pen to paper recently and joined Rivervale – the one stop vehicle specialists in Portslade, Brighton.

The change in direction also sees Paul set up his own venture, Cube Consulting, that he runs alongside splitting his time at Rivervale. What does commercial management in professional sport and vehicles have in common you might ask? “Relationships and customer service,” says Paul, two things that have enabled him to seamlessly maintain longstanding connections built through years of football sponsorship and partnership agreements. “Trust and reassurance that you are dealing with professional people is key,” says Paul who is now introducing his contacts to options for leasing vehicles through Rivervale.

He said: “My role as Business Consultant is all about making

connections, connections to people and businesses I know would benefit from the offerings Rivervale have in place. When it comes to cars, I’ve always been a real car fan which helps, but my background before professional football as a broker in the city helps me to explain to clients the different options available to buy or lease vehicles.”

Rivervale has three divisions, Contract Hire and Leasing, Used Vehicles and the Bosch Car service centre – by covering all aspects of the industry their aim is to be their customers life-long contact for any of their vehicle requirements. The Bosch car service centre is the newest in Sussex and sits discreetly under the brand-new purpose-built leasing showroom on Victoria Road, Portslade.

Rivervale are independent which means they can provide options on any make or model of vehicle.

Coming into the industry Paul was surprised how many people are still unsure about the potential benefits

vehicle leasing offers. “Leasing, PCP’s and other arrangements are still new to many drivers and businesses, my aim is to help them understand their options and provide them with an affordable solution.”

YOUR EXCLUSVE INVITE TO RIVERVALE HOUSE! Rivervale and Paul Rogers are hosting a ‘get to know more’ style evening on the 27th February at Rivervale House where people can come along and find out about all the different leasing and purchasing schemes for both personal and business needs. Not only that but they can get their current vehicle, valued, health checked and even do a deal on the night if something takes their fancy!

Please RSVP by email to paulrogers@rivervale.co.uk or call

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

R

THE LAMBORGHINI URUS: THE SUV WITH SUPERPOWER Since the Sports Utility Vehicle became the must have of the motoring world manufacturers have made SUVs small and compact, extra large, and ultra luxurious. So, it makes sense that the only niche left to address is a super powerful version, and that’s exactly what Lamborghini is providing with the new Urus...

This isn’t the first time Lamborghini has toyed with the idea of an SUV. All the way back in 1986 the LM002 was produced. Production ended in 1993 with only 328 built so probably not the SUV success Lamborghini were hoping for. Perhaps they were a few decades too early with the LM002. Now we are all gripped in SUV fever the Urus is likely to be a huge success, especially as it is the fastest SUV on sale.

Lamborghini’s SUV supercar will be powered by a V8 4 litre, bi-turbo engine with 650HP capable of 0-62mph in only 3.6 seconds and with a top speed of 190mph, making it officially the fastest SUV on sale. You may think it’s untimely for Lamborghini to bring out such a fuel guzzling car when fossil fuels are running out and we desperately need to clean up our air, but the engine does have a clever fuel saving trick. Four of the cylinders inside the engine can be cut when you don’t need them, for example, when you’re

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driving around town. This saves some fuel and some emissions when you really don’t need to be using all that power.

It is an admirable attempt at making a supercar super environmentally friendly, but efficiency is only 22mpg (combined) with 290g/km of Co2 released. Those who have the good of the planet on their minds will probably want to look elsewhere for their next SUV. Lamborghini’s Adaptive Network Intelligent MAnagement selector (ANIMA) allows the driver to change the feel of their driving experience depending on their mood or their current driving conditions. There are 7 different driving modes to choose from, 3 are on road and 4 are for off road driving and provide optimal conditions for sandy surfaces, slippery surfaces, extra precision, comfort and even an ‘EGO’ mode which lets the driver select their own steering, suspension and traction preferences.

On the outside, several design features have been continued from the LM002. The hexagonal wheel arches are one such feature which make space for the 21” or 23” wheels, which are the largest found on any SUV currently on sale. The short overhang and tapered front are similarly inspired by the LM002.

Inside you will find all the Italian luxury you would expect with Alcantara leather and carbon or high quality wood finishes. The Lamborghini Infotainment system III provides two intuitive touchscreens with haptic feedback, three innovative high definition displays and an advanced 3D surround Bang and Olufsen sound system with 21 loudspeakers, so technology lovers will be happy.

As the world’s first super SUV it will come as no surprise that the Urus is super expensive, with prices starting at £157,800 and the first UK deliveries expected to take place in Spring this year.

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SBTMotoring News Worthing Suzuki Celebrates Award Win for Excellent Customer Service Motability customers in Worthing can be sure of receiving award-winning customer service when they visit local dealer, Worthing Suzuki, who have won a regional award for their work with the Motability Car Scheme.

The accolade is part of a programme of awards, launched last year by Motability Operations, to recognise and reward outstanding customer service provided by local Motability dealerships.

The Dealer Awards programme

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Promotes Road Safety

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars welcomed the team from the Sussex Safer Road Partnership to the home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, West Sussex. The world’s leading luxury manufacturer invited the Partnership to install its road safety roadshow above the production line to allow all 2000 employees on site to take part.

The Sussex Safer Road Partnership is a collective that brings together teams from Sussex Police, East and West Sussex County Councils, East and West Sussex Fire and Rescue Services, Brighton and Hove City Council and Highways England, with the aim of significantly reducing life-changing injuries and eliminating fatalities.

Andrew Ball, Corporate Relations Manager at Rolls-Royce said: “We were delighted to welcome the team from the Sussex Safer Road Partnership. We work closely with all the emergency services, with a particular focus on road safety, and were keen for all of our employees to have the opportunity to meet the team and ask questions.”

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is designed to reward best practice and ensure all Motability customers receive exemplary customer service across the Motability Scheme’s national dealer network. The Awards are judged on how a dealer delivers the Scheme to customers, which is assessed by customer feedback and reviews of their performance. All winners of the quarterly awards are automatically entered into the national annual awards which are announced at the beginning of the following year.

Production Begins for the New Nissan LEAF in Europe Production of the all-new Nissan LEAF, the next generation of the world’s best-selling electric vehicle, is officially underway for European customers.

With the first new LEAFs now rolling off the line at Nissan’s plant in Sunderland, UK, the countdown has now started to the first customers receiving their vehicles in February.

Embodying Nissan’s intelligent mobility vision and already winning international awards for innovation and technology, this new model has been reinvented to offer greater range, dynamic design, advanced driver assistance technologies and enhanced connectivity.

Kevin Fitzpatrick, Nissan Europe Divisional Vice President for Manufacturing, said: “Nissan led the way in introducing electric vehicles to Europe in 2011, and every year since then it’s been clear that more and more customers share our vision for the future of driving.”

SEAT Launches New Fleet Section of Website SEAT, the fastest-growing brand in UK fleet sales, has made it easier than ever for business users and company car drivers to find their perfect company car with the unveil of a new fleet section of its website.

Visitors to the site now benefit from new total cost of ownership calculator (TCO), a dedicated area for all fleet customer types, the option to book a four-day test drive and comprehensive information on each model and

aftersales care.

All of the pages on the new-look fleet section have been reconfigured with ease of use firmly in mind, based on a reduced number of clicks to navigate through each function alongside completely refreshed content and imagery.

The website will be a first port-of-call for the many customers selecting SEAT as their company car of choice, with compelling models attracting decision makers with their trademark characteristics of quality.

Here are some of the organisations we are in partnership with in 2017

For Outstanding Quality & Service

01273 464 884 info@gemini-print.co.uk www.gemini-print.co.uk Gemini Print, Unit A1, Dolphin Way Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex BN43 6NZ

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SBT

ASK THE

EXPERTS

WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

EXPERT

How is business in Sussex?

As a specialist recruiter in the finance industry, we continually analyse press, trends in the market and client and candidate feedback to inform our strategies and support our clients. 2017

EXPERT

Julia Jeyes, Owner and Director of Grafton Banks Finance has been a year of uncertainty and the press has been projecting a gloomy outlook, yet economic reports show that productivity is at its highest in the UK for six years and the economy remains buoyant.

Optimism is high amongst UK businesses, and we are seeing an increased demand for senior professionals as companies grow.

Not only are quality candidates in high demand, and often snapped up very quickly, but we are seeing employers working harder to retain staff.

It’s a candidate-led market, so employers need to progress with confidence when recruiting, ensuring their offering meets the needs of today’s dynamic workforce.

So, as an employer how can you attract top talent?

When we surveyed nearly 200 of our

What do you need to consider?

When it comes to online marketing

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www.graftonbanksfinance.co.uk

Timothy Fifield, Business Development Director, BritWeb Ltd the rate of digital innovation moves at blistering speed. Understanding how to fully exploit the opportunities within Digital Marketing is a vital element to every businesses success, particularly if you’re in a highly competitive market.

When done well, digital marketing has the power to drive brand loyalty, business leads, and conversions, allowing your company to thrive.

Why You Should Invest in Digital Marketing for 2018

candidates, 59% noted that they would appreciate extra holiday, flexible working options and other nonsalary related benefits. It’s clear that wellbeing is playing an important role in the decision-making process, and any offering should be tailored to the candidate you’re looking for.

Offering flexibility in working hours, where appropriate, could help set yourself apart from your competitors, but it needs to work for your business too. We’re also seeing candidates looking to build relationships with companies before considering employment with them, so your business needs to promote its values externally as well as internally so that prospective applicants can see that they will be part of a positive company culture.

What types of digital marketing are there?

Companies both large and small can generate great results from email marketing, blogs, social platforms and the big noise online, that being video.

Marketers who use video grow revenue 49% faster than non-video users and it’s anticipated that by 2019, internet video traffic will account for 80% of all

consumer internet traffic.

Do you need training? f any elements of digital marketing in your business can be improved, investing in a training course would be beneficial, particularly as the landscape can change so quickly and it’s important you and your staff are using the latest approaches.

With training, you can put yourself in the driving seat and gain the skills you need to manage and create an engaging digital footprint for your business.

As demand for social media and online video training is high, now is the time to make sure your business is in the spotlight.

For more information, please visit https://www.britweb-education. co.uk/ or contact 01403 261491.

SBT

ASK THE

EXPERTS

WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

EXPERT

What does SEO mean to you?

SEO, or Search Engine Optimisation to those who are not familiar with the acronym, is all about relevancy, trust and authority.

Relevancy, in terms of ensuring your site is closely aligned to your audience

Gavin Willis, Managing Director, Search Seven and the content is optimised based on their search behaviour and intent, with authority refering to the authority of the 3rd party site that is linking back to your website. Trust signals also play a vital role in telling Google that the website is reputable and from a trusted source.

Improving your on-site relevancy can be achieved by researching and listening to your audience, and this can then be reflected by updating your meta data to align yourself with their needs, as well as creating new content that answers their questions. Google rewards sites that aim to create a better experience for their users, and fresh content that is topical and compelling plays an important part in this.

Off-site relevancy can be achieved via your off-site SEO/ PR strategy which aims to build great relationships with 3rd party sites to publish compelling, relevant content that has been created for

their users on sites, that is also closely aligned to your brand. Google looks as both relevancy, trust and authority when judging who to rank highly for a particular search term.

The higher the site authority and trust signals are, the increased likelihood of your site ranking higher, and if the content is relevant once the user arrives, then the chances of the user carrying out a meaningful action, such as making an enquiry, sale, download and so on, becomes far greater.

SEO is always evolving, with constant algorithm updates throughout the year on an almost daily basis. However, Google’s ultimate aim is to provide relevant search results and a great user experience, so as long as your strategy is authentic and your objective mirrors Google’s then you are on the right track. www.searchseven.co.uk

EXPERT

Matthew Stanley, Accounts Director, Coast to Coast Direct

How can we reduce our businesses operational costs for the products and services we use to keep our offices running smoothly?

Proactive suppliers should be talking to their customers about consolidation of supply – making them aware of the other products and services they offer that aren’t traditionally within their remit and that their customers may be getting from other suppliers.

Supplier Consolidation is the process of reducing suppliers to focus on the best suppliers within the broader

market. If you can get a wider range of products from one supplier rather than several, then there can be advantages as long as it is done properly with trusted suppliers who know what they’re doing.

The ‘soft costs’ associated with managing multiple suppliers can be reduced by improving efficiency and having lower transactional costs. Fewer suppliers means lower costs in setting up purchasing systems, sourcing the right products from the right suppliers, completing transactions, receiving deliveries, paying invoices and managing the relationships between each supplier.

Fewer suppliers to manage makes it easier to build stronger relationships with the suppliers you retain, and the better your relationship the more bespoke the service becomes and the more value they can add to your business. Your supplier

will be getting a larger market share of your business too, which should lead to a reduction in prices they can offer you across the broader range, and you’ll save time too by not having to shop around.

At Coast to Coast we’ve hired industry specific specialists to set up new departments in-house to bring experience to the team and add credibility to our new offerings, allowing us to offer a true consolidated service to our customers. This has led to us winning business in new areas whilst also saving our customers time and money.

For more information, please call Matt on 01903 236863 or e-mail matthew@coasttocoastdirect.co.uk

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B2B Expos in Sussex

West Sussex Business Expo Here we are at the start of a brand new year, but the Sussex business community is showing no signs of slowing down.

Here, we look forward to 2018’s B2B Expos, starting with the West Sussex Business Expo

Following on from the success of last year’s B2B Expos in Sussex, this year will see the return of the West Sussex Business Expo, set to take Fontwell Park Racecourse by storm once again on Thursday 24th May. Since 2011, B2B Expos have been successfully organising business expos in major towns and cities across Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey and Sussex. Their business shows are for local businesses who are looking to network, forge new relationships with local suppliers and be inspired in our seminars, workshops and keynote speakers.

Their business to business expos attract a wide range of visitors from sole-traders to large corporations, and their events are supported locally by major companies and networking groups.

They advertise all our business shows to thousands of businesses in each area to attract such a diverse audience.

The West Sussex Business Expo in particular promises to attract an audience

B2B Expos in Sussex

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of more than 300-400 visitors from businesses looking to network, forge new relationships with local suppliers and be inspired in free seminars and workshops.

Exhibiting at business show in West Sussex will help put your business in front of potential new customers from across West Sussex and it’s the perfect way to showcase your services, generate new leads, raise brand awareness.

Booking a stand at business shows of this kind will provide you with the perfect platform to engage with quality decision makers face-to-face, generate sales leads, raise brand awareness and network to win new business.

Speaking after last year’s event in West Sussex, Diverse Cleaning Company’s Ian Skinner said: “Having attended a number of events organised by B2B Expos, I would like to say how impressed I am with the professionalism and sheer hard work they put into managing their events.

More recently I attended an expo that I was unconvinced would be right for us...

I’m glad I listened and attended otherwise I would have missed a great show! I will definitely be exhibiting again! Of course,

2018

this is just one of many outstanding testimonials given by the event’s visitors and exhibitors - more of which we will give you in the months leading up to this year’s West Sussex expo.

Of course, it’s important to have a clear objective in place before exhibiting at any type of business to business show. B2B Expos knows each business is different and exhibiting at business shows of this kind might come with different end goals.

Because of this, there are a number of different stand packages available for exhibitors, including:

Bronze Stand Package (1m x 2m Shell Scheme Stand) £395 • Shell scheme stand with fascia and a name board • Trestle display table • The exhibitor list (including contact details) • A copy of the delegate list including contact details • A listing on the expo website and in the show guide • Social media promotion leading up to the expo

B2B Expos in Sussex

Silver Stand Package (1 x 3m Shell Scheme Stand) £495 • Shell scheme stand with fascia and a name board • Trestle display table • The exhibitor list (including contact details) • A copy of the delegate list including contact details • A listing on the expo website and in the show guide • Social media promotion leading up to the expo Gold Stand Package (2 x 2m Shell Scheme Stand) £595 • Shell scheme stand with fascia and a name board • Trestle display table • The exhibitor list (including contact details) • A copy of the delegate list including contact details • An exhibitor listing on the expo website • A profile in the printed show guide • Social media promotion leading up to the expo Platinum Stand Package (2 x 3m Shell Scheme Stamd) £695 • Shell scheme stand with fascia and a name board • Trestle display table

• • • • •

The exhibitor list (including contact details) A copy of the delegate list including contact details An exhibitor listing on the expo website A profile in the printed show guide Social media promotion leading up to the expo

B2B Expos believe that booking a stand for events of this kind should be as stress-free as possible, and therefore the booking process is easy and takes a matter of minutes to do online...

To exhibit at this year’s West Sussex Expo, you will need to choose a stand package and a stand number/location from the expo floorplan. To secure your

stand simply go to our website and complete the online booking form, and after you’ve completed the booking form, you’ll receive an email confirmation, an invoice and all the details you’ll need for the business show. It really is that simple.

Once you’ve booked your stand, the B2B Expos events team will keep you in the loop to ensure you receive all the information you need and to make sure that you never miss a deadline.

West Sussex Business Expo Thursday 24th May 10:00am - 3:00pm Fontwell Park Racecourse www.B2Bexpos.co.uk/WestSussex

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Network My Club

Kickstarting the Year with Network My Club 2017 was a busy year for Network My Club’s growing business clubs in Sussex at Brighton & Hove Albion FC and Fontwell Park Racecourse. They take to our pages here at the start of a brand new year to provide us with updates on their latest business club events

NETWORK ALBION BUSINESS CLUB News The first Network Albion Business Club networking breakfast of 2018 took place in the Heineken Lounge at the Amex Stadium last month.

Guests took time out of their busy schedules to join us and enjoy networking, a delicious full English breakfast, and heard from guest speaker, John Young.

John gave guests an insight into just how complex working on a live news broadcast is, showing both footage that you see on TV, with the same footage played back with just the sound of the production team in the presenter’s earpiece. John likened the skill required to do this to that of when you’re in a conversation at a networking event but have half an ear on another conversation nearby!

John also runs various workshops and training programmes for personal and business use, translating what he’s learnt working in a fast and highly demanding industry into helping others around decision making and team building.

The next Network Albion event takes place on Thursday 1st February, 8.30am-10.30am, and guests are invited to book at www. networkalbion.co.uk NETWORK FONTWELL BUSINESS CLUB The Network Fontwell Business Club kicked off the new year with a busy event at Fontwell Park Racecourse Guests enjoyed a full English breakfast, the chance to make new contacts from West Sussex and afar, as well as hearing from guest speaker, John Barclay.

John gave an energetic talk about

New Year’s Resolutions and how best to succeed in achieving them, using an amusing anecdote from his time as a cricketer in a game against Lancashire.

The piece of advice is something that John carries with him even to this day, which is to throw your whole heart into whatever you want to do or achieve to give yourself the best chance of achieving that. John also eluded to the importance of not only importance of individual performance and goals, but those of a team, which is something delegates were certainly able to relate to.

The next Network Fontwell event takes place on Thursday 15th February, and is one of the popular networking race days! Businesses are invited to enjoy an afternoon of networking, a two-course lunch as well as enjoying the day’s racing! To find more details and book a place, visit www.networkfontwell.co.uk

Learn more about Network My Club at www.networkmyclub.co.uk

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Network My Club

“I’ve found the business club to be an excellent way to meet like-minded professionals and those are often in senior positions.”

- Engage Healthcare

“Network My Club make you feel very welcome and allow you the time to actually network!

They take a keen interest in your business and try to help any way they can, which I find very refreshing.”

- Best Vehicle Leasing

“The structure Network My Club have created really is the future of networking.”

- Detect Fire & Security “In today’s fast-paced business environment, I was struck by the time and care the Network My Club team dedicated to getting to know our business and objectives.” - Hero IT Support

Contact them on 01903 898025 or info@networkmyclub.co.uk

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Networking in Sussex

SBT

Society Stanmer House Launch

Alex Proud officially re-launched Stanmer House at the end of November last year, with fully restored mansion featuring all new Seasonal British restaurant, Source at Stanmer.

Grade 1 listed ‘Proud Country House’, Stanmer Park, Brighton was brought into the Proud Group in 2016 and has now been fully restored with juxtaposing antiques and reclamation yard finds, 70s glamour and modern patterns. Whilst still retaining the original charm of the 295-year-old house.

Next year a £3.75 million investment commences in the 20 hectares surrounding the house, to restore the Grade 2 listed parkland and outbuildings and make the estate more accessible for cyclists, walkers and cars. 300 invited guests – from local business leaders, trade associations, councillors and media representatives – joined owner Alex Proud for the official relaunch party on Wednesday 29th November.

Alex Proud said: “I am delighted to be the new custodian of such an important Heritage site in Sussex – the place where I grew up; in fact, my mother cried when I told her I’d taken on Stanmer – the love for this building and estate runs deep and I hope our customers old and new enjoy the changes and improvements we’re making front of house and behind the scenes.”.

The doors were also formally opened at new restaurant, Source, which looks set to take the Sussex dining scene by storm by championing the region’s local produce. Serving a seasonal British menu, using fresh fish, meats and produce from within a 20-mile radius, Source is simply and beautifully cooked food, served at a price that is fair for everyone from producer to guest.

Head Chef, James Mitchell explains: “I believe in starting with the very finest ingredients, treating them with respect and letting the quality speak for itself. We have something for every palette – from light salads to beautiful on the bone rib of Beef.”

Claire Connolly and Nicky Ifold from RSPCA

Red carpet welcome from Stanmer House Rob Reaks, Laura Dauphine and Danyal Shafiq

Stanmer House, Brighton

Photography by Graham Franks

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SBT

Society Starr Trust Raises £27,000

Sussex charity the Starr Trust kicked off the festive season early this year with a brilliant fundraising evening. Held at the Hilton Brighton Metropole on 18th November, the Regency Suite glittered and sparkled with the help of David Hill from E3 Entertainment.

The ‘Winter Musical Extravaganza: A night at the movies’ featured live entertainment from the talented Starr Trust Singers and some hilarious compèring from Mark Yexley. The cast wore dazzling costumes and put on a fabulous show with musical medleys from the movies. Guests were treated to a champagne reception followed by a delicious 3-course festive dinner and late night disco, and the evening ran like clockwork thanks to Sascha Koehler and his wonderful team at the Hilton.

Tracey Narvaez from the Starr Trust told us: “we are incredibly grateful to everyone that came and supported us. Our legendary Starr Trust Singers entertained 245 guests and the evening raised over £27,000 which is an incredible achievement. We couldn’t have managed this without our generous headline sponsor Drum Technologies, supported by Curation Corporation and Gemini Print. Local businesses also donated truly fantastic prizes which all helped raise money for the young people of Sussex. We can’t wait to see everyone again at our Winter Ball next year on November 17th.”

The Starr Trust is always looking to help as many young people as they can so go to their website to find out more about the work they do and how you or someone you know can apply for one of their Edward Starr Awards at www.starrtrust.com

The group from Virgin Active Gym

Movie entertainment

An important job for Brighton Metropole’s Ramona Badar

Event Sponsors John and Kerry Drum

Photography by Graham Franks

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Made in Sussex

Made in Sussex: Gran Stead’s Ginger Company If you have taken the pledge or simply trying to make it through Dry January, then Portslade-based business, Gran Stead’s Ginger Company, make delicious soft drinks which mean you can still feel like a grown up When Chris Knox retired after 30 years Brand as a policeman to take over the family Focus business with his wife Rosemary making non-alcoholic ginger drinks, he “knew it wasn’t going to be a hobby”. Long hours, wrapped up against all weathers, were spent selling the delicious Gran Stead’s Ginger Drinks at local farmers markets such as Chichester and Shoreham.

Their hard work paid off as distribution expanded into farm shops across the south east and then into supermarkets, such as Budgens and the Co-op.

Fourteen years on, with a string of awards behind them, and national distribution, they are still regular faces at food festivals - Chris has only just thawed out after a 16-day stint at RHS Wisley’s Christmas Glow event, where he warmed visitors up with hot toddies of apple and ginger punch.

“You need to wear lots of layers for these events, but it is worth it to see the delight on people’s faces when they try our drinks,” says Chris. “We get such positive feedback at these shows. It gives us the chance to show how versatile these drinks are, to build a loyal following, and people love hearing the story behind the drinks.”

Produced on a farm on the outskirts of Portslade, the original Mellow Ginger drink is based on a 160-year old recipe made by Christiana Stead, affectionately known as “Granny”. The Knox family became the keepers of the famous recipe in 1994 when Len and Dot, Chris’ parents, discovered that production of their favourite ginger drink had run dry.

Undeterred, they bought the recipe and began preparing it in their home kitchen, sticking carefully to the same recipe as `Granny Stead’ and, like Christiana, never using artificial flavours or colours.

Chris and Rosemary, who took over the

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Chris and Rosemary Knox, owners of Gran Stead’s Ginger Company, makers of seriously good adult soft drinks

Gran Stead’s Ginger Company in 2004 and moved production to Mile Oak Farm, take their responsibility as custodians of Christiana Stead’s recipe very seriously.

“Each batch is carefully taste-tested by me and Rosemary. Production never continues until we are satisfied with the balance of flavours.”

The full range from Gran Stead’s Ginger Company It is a commitment that has paid off. In recent months, two these awards have recognised, but it is of its products - Gran Stead’s what customers tell us when we chat at Mellow Ginger and Spiced Ginger Punch the food fairs and markets. You can mix - have won stars in the internationallythem with spirits, warm them up for a hot acclaimed Great Taste Awards. Its toddy to fight off a winter cold, or simply Reduced Sugar Fiery Ginger Drink took enjoy them as they are.” the winning place in the reduced sugar ambient category in the food and drink Gran Stead’s website carries a list of industry’s Good Choice! Quality Food stockists and the drinks can also be Awards 2017. bought online: “We make seriously good grown up www.GranSteadsGinger.co.uk soft drinks. It is something the judges at

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