SBT issue 441

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SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

A TIME OF PIVOTAL CHANGE

WE HEAR FROM GLENN BALLARD, CEO OF BRIGHTON BASED NEW WORLD TECH

SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS WOMAN TURNS AUTHOR: WE CHAT WITH CARALINE BROWN

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

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SBTWelcome

WE LCO M E

Welcome to our latest digital edition of Sussex Business Times.

This month sees the start of Lockdown 2.0 as the uncertainty continues for us all. As I write this, there are discussions in the Government and an announcement that Pfizer may have a vaccine which will be amazing news.

The business community continues to pull together as we see more collaborations with businesses lending support where they can to help each other through this.

In this month’s cover feature I had the pleasure of meeting with Glenn Ballard, CEO of New World Tech and welcome

them as VAP’s for County Business Clubs as we launch SBT Tech. We discuss with Glenn the impact of COVID-19 on his

company, his family and friends and what he is doing to help small, often financially fragile businesses and entrepreneurial ventures in the Sussex area.

The County Business Clubs community continues to grow with nearly 300 members and we look forward to welcoming

more new members and partners this month. We are also delighted to announce that we have collaborated with our event partners at Network My Club to bring you the first ‘Virtual Business Awards Sussex’ and we look forward to welcoming you all for a great evening to celebrate the wins and good news stories from the Sussex Business Community.

As always, the issue is packed full of great content and advice from our sponsors and contributors and we thank you all for your continued support.

I hope you all enjoy this issue of SBT, and I would like to wish all our readers, friends, business associates all the very best.

Continue to stay positive and together we will come though this.

Sam Thomas, Managing Director

VALUE ADDED PARTNERS

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 5

Issue 441

08 10 Cover 441

Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 012 Production & Design Kim Butler 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 L&S Printing Limited Hazelwood Close Worthing BN14 8NP 01903 821005 www.ls-printing.com

15 19 23 27 33 41 45 49 55

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. 2020 ©

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

61 65 71 74

CBC members round up Member spotlight

News

A round up of the local business stories from across Sussex

SBT Finance

MHA Carpenter Box – Support for businesses during the second lockdown

SBT Legal

Healys – Your business: Is this the opportunity for change | MD at Cognitive Law appointed president of the law society

SBT Property

The case against Buy to Let | The Cost of a new commercial premises | Career in construction beckons for lucky trainees

SBT Sales & Marketing

Adapting your style for the new way of selling | 67 Degrees celebrate national industry awards

SBT Charity

Charity round up from – Chestnut Tree House | Care for Veterans | Sussex Night Stop

SBT Cover Feature

We speak to Glenn Ballard, CEO of New World Tech on the impact of Covid-19

SBT People Management & Recruitment

How employers can best deal with mass job applications

SBT Stories

Sussex Success Stories – We chat to Caraline Brown, hear from Hove Fitness & Squash and David Drake, RDS

SBT Lifestyle

Blanch House Hotel Review – Bolney Wine Estate Tasting review

SBT Motor News

How the UK’s EV knowledge hasn’t changed in 5 years | What’s the latest on ‘road to Zero’ and the Government going green?

SBT Networking & Events

How to Network online most effectively | Christmas most certainly isn’t cancelled | The Possibilities of virtual business

SBT Ask the expert

Three at Three James, Emma & Lisa are back with more great advice

Cube Corner

SBT Cube Consulting monthly round up

CONNECT THROUGH SPORT

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FirmBalls is delighted to partner with World Corporate Football to bring you the biggest international Corporate FIFA20 Tournament!

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sam@firmballs.com www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

7

C B C M E M B E RS RO U N D U P

County Business Clubs members roundup It has been another great month for Members County Business Roundup clubs as we reach nearly 300 members from all businesses and industries. We are delighted to announce our New Value Added partnerships with this months cover feature NWT as well as MHA Carpenter Box and the FSB. There is lots happening with an

exciting few weeks ahead as we launch our Keynote Marketing platform for our members packed with engaging webinar content on a variety of subjects as well as interviews from our members. We have also partnered with our friends at Network My Club to bring you the first ‘Virtual Business Awards Sussex’ this December. They are the awards nominated by you and an evening to celebrate and recognise achievements however big or small

from business across Sussex in 2020.

We have our Member Spotlight again this month, with a focus on Becky Sharp, Secs on the Beach..

Our community continues to grow and looks forward to welcoming more of you this month. It is still FREE to join – simply CLICK HERE | register | create your profile and start benefiting from being part of the County Business Clubs community.

250 members

Your Business | Your Community | Your Platform

8 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

CBC M EM BER SP OTLIGHT

Member spotlight...

Secs On The Beach

Member Spotlight

Tell us about Secs On The Beach?

now. SOTB was created back in Feb 2020 before I even knew Covid was

Secs On The Beach

about to hit. Our services provide a

offers virtual business

strong support to SMEs who are facing

support services

challenges, especially during these

to SMEs UK-wide. Think of us as a

difficult times. Seeing just how much our

business concierge - we assess and

experienced team have been able to help

review current and future needs within

companies and individuals, I decided to

businesses to enable us to create a

take things one stage further and I am

strategy, implement our services and

about to launch an automation company.

analyse the success. We work closely with business owners, CEOs and Heads

Opus-Automation offers intelligent

of Departments to help them become

RPA (Robotic Process Automation) to

more efficient, productive and profitable.

businesses UK-wide. We have a leading technical automation team ready to

Our highly experienced team are on

support the SME market, which will

hand to help across Admin, Finance, HR,

enable companies to be more efficient,

Marketing and Sales, allowing senior

productive and profitable. Automation

management and their teams to focus

is the way forward and, as a managed

on their areas of expertise.

service, we are here to help businesses

What has been your biggest business challenge to date?

who want to embrace automation but have no idea where to start! So between SOTB and Opus-Automation we have

Becky Sharp

services, marketing, sports and legal. Our team are primed and ready to support businesses that are looking to reduce internal workloads, create process efficiencies and become more profitable.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself that people might not know?

Our biggest challenge to date has been

the same outcome, however one is using

trying to find a niche and decide which

people and the other is using robots!

Some may say this is fun and some may

we speak to is unique and has their own

I’m proud of how we can help

the Indian Ocean just a couple of metres

challenges and pain points and therefore

businesses and I’m even more proud of

no two requirements are the same.

the team I have around me.

What has been your greatest or

What type of clients do you currently

to date?

to meet?

areas to specialise in. Each company

proudest business achievement

say I’m mad…I once jumped in a cage in from several circling great white sharks.

It was an exciting but surreal moment!

work with and who are you looking

My proudest business achievement to

We are currently working with a variety

date is actually what I am doing right

of businesses within property, financial

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 9

MO NT H LY N E WS

2020 vision- life after professional cricket Former Sussex and

Monthly News

Nottinghamshire cricketer, Chris

Nash has recently

stepped back from

the professional game to start a

new career with the WPA Healthcare

Practice PLC - a wholly owned division of WPA, who specialise in providing

private medical insurance and health

cash plans to individuals, families and businesses of all size.

Chris will join the local franchise working with the well-established businesses

of Daniel Wade and Derrick Smith who have recently agreed a joint venture

partnership to run the two franchise businesses as one.

Chris, you have been a professional

10 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

cricketer for nearly 20 years. What’s

I spent a day with him in meetings and

Luckily I have a lot to choose from,

how I could transfer both my skills and

2 years in the first team in 2006 and

into the Private Healthcare sector.

The 2009 T20 win was special as it

yourself for your second career, and

that competition. Individually, scoring

more time working together to make

was a dream come true. From the age

Having first-hand experience of the

Sussex and win trophies and I was

the speed it got me back to work, it

that for 17 years and win so many

and I can see the benefits to both

your best memory from this time?

spoke a lot about the industry and

winning the championship in my first

experiences from my cricket career

2007 was an amazing experience.

As a cricketer you have to prepare

was the first time Sussex had won

as time ticked on, Dan and I spent

a 100 for Sussex at Horsham in 2010

the transition as smooth as possible.

of 7, all I wanted to do was to play for

benefits of private healthcare, and

incredibly fortunate to be able to do

is something I am passionate about

trophies with my home county.

individuals and businesses.

Chris, how long have you been thinking

Chris, are you excited to be moving

did you get involved with WPA?

Sussex has always been my home.

about hanging up the boots and how

Dan approached me 4 years ago, and

back to Sussex?

Brighton is unique place and has

MON T H LY N EWS S PECIA L Eastbourne Town and Jon Pitts also plays rugby for Lewes as

well as being a good cricketer playing for Seaford.

Being part of a team

same for business.

Chris will join us as

an Account Manager

and his role with have two main functions.

Firstly, he will be taking over some of our

renewals for our existing customers. Maintaining

partner has been living and working

here whilst I have been up and down the country, so I never truly left. I

‘think’ she is happy (for now) to have me around a bit more.

Dan, what skillset do you think Chris can bring to your business and what will his role be?

I have known Chris for several years

since I got involved with Sussex CCC as a sponsor. Chris has always been good with the sponsors as he is a

great ‘people’s person’. That is the

main thing in our role - you need to be good with people.

All of us within the business have been

involved with sport at good levels. I have played rugby for Lewes since the age of 5, Derrick has played and coached football for Eastbourne Borough and

all the training, now its time to get to work and get myself involved in the local business community.

Smith. What does this mean and what

in sports and this is the

I kept my base down here and my

new opportunities. Having completed

teamwork, discipline, hard work are all vital

Nottinghamshire for the past 3 years,

made me feel really excited by the

Dan, you have recently agreed a

self-motivation and

Although I have been playing for

of local businesspeople has certainly

sport really helps.

Communication,

such a strong sense of community.

by Dan and WPA, alongside a number

relationships with our clients is key for us.

Secondly, he will be responsible for generating new sales so he will be

getting involved with the local business community to build his network.

Chris, how do you feel about starting ‘life after cricket’?

It is quite daunting. I have wanted to

be a cricketer since the age of 7, and have been fortunate enough to do it

joint venture agreement with Derrick plans do you have in the long term?

Until recently, both Derrick and I ran two separate franchise businesses under

WPA. Derrick covered Brighton & Hove with Dan and Jon covering Gatwick/ Crawley/East Grinsted.

Derrick and I have been discussing for a

few years about working together to use each other’s skillset. Derrick has built a

business up over 25 years and previously managed this on his own. I have run my

franchise for 11 years and bought Jon in 4 years ago to help with this.

Being a franchise restricted by

geographical territories meant we were

both restricted on the activities we could do as these had to be done in our own locations. By joining forces, the two

territories will be run as one business and the four of us will manage all

aspects of the business between us to share the workloads.

for a living over the last 20 years. It is quite well documented how hard professional sportspeople find it to transition into life after cricket. It is something I have always thought

about, and this has really helped.

Whilst we feel invincible when we are playing, for every player, the time will come and it is vital to prepare. I have

been extremely fortunate to meet a lot of great people through cricket and the business community in Sussex has always been great supporters

of sport in the county. The help and encouragement I have been offered

Daniel Wade

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 11

MO NT H LY N E WS

Designate reveals campaign for ‘Never Normal’ Brighton Concept subverts gloomy pandemic communications Creative agency Designate has Monthly revealed its campaign News for VisitBrighton, which subverts the phrase “The New Normal” and points to what makes Brighton special: the city couldn’t do normal if it tried.

the bleak messaging.

The campaign encourages Brighton residents and visitors to escape the mundanity of this year with a trip to the city, by combining eye-catching images, creative and an irreverent tone of voice, to showcase its exciting and offbeat culture.

“Our unconventional campaign is full of life, subversive and has flex to work across the ever-changing Coronavirus restrictions. But crucially it also has life beyond the pandemic – Brighton will definitely never be normal. Our approach at Designate is to find that elusive part of the brand that will deliver stand out and make people pay attention.”

This work by Designate, a Campaign Top 50 agency based in Brighton, shows how to cut through the depressing and repetitive communications associated with the pandemic and deliver a campaign which uncovers what makes a brand truly different.

Faye Carré, Creative Director, Designate, said: “During the pandemic we were monitoring how people were responding to communications around Coronavirus and we knew that audiences were tired of hearing the same gloomy phrases and

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

“Designate has been part of Brighton culture for 30 years, so when we came up with the Never Normal campaign idea, we knew it was perfect. That’s what people love about Brighton – it’s the people, the culture and the sense of freedom.

VisitBrighton promotes the city to visitors from the UK and around the world, working in partnership with more than 500 businesses across Brighton and Sussex.

There are four phases to the campaign, which include initially targeting Brighton residents, then day trippers from around the South East, followed by family and friends of residents who might want to plan an overnight stay

and finally looking to long-stay visitors and even those from overseas.

Designate came up with the concept by looking at what makes Brighton unique and focused on its free-thinking nature and unusual heritage buildings. They knew Brighton had never been normal, deciding to play on the phrase coined during the pandemic: ‘The New Normal’.

The team began working on the campaign during June, commissioning local street photographers Kevin Meredith and JJ Waller, as well as collaborating with more than 500 partners of VisitBrighton, who shared photos to use as part of the creative.

Honest and authentic images of the people and places fuel the campaign.

It features well-known Brighton characters with the phrase ‘Welcome to Never Normal Brighton’, or the outlandish Royal Pavilion, illuminated at night with the tagline: ‘We’ve always been open to the unusual’.

Another image shows a photo of tourist attraction the Upside Down House with

MON T H LY N E WS the phrase: ‘Looking for the new normal?

Keep looking. Brighton is coming back to life, but if you’re looking for the new normal, you might be in the wrong place.’

The campaign is running in out of home locations, as well as across digital and social media.

Julia Gallagher, Head of Sales, Marketing and Partnership at VisitBrighton, said: “When we saw Designate’s Never Normal concept we loved it – it’s a simple but

bold idea which reflects the free-spirited atmosphere of the city. People love Brighton because it is a place where you can be yourself and are free to do things differently – we couldn’t do normal if we tried! As VisitBrighton we have our own ideas about what makes the city special, but we cannot wait to see what everyone else thinks makes us #NeverNormalBrighton.”

Adam Hill, Executive Director, Designate, said: “We were passionate about working

on this project as we’re a Brighton agency.

We take a lot of pride in our city and wanted to help it get back on its feet, but we’re also a Campaign Top 50 national agency that has worked with some of the world’s best-known brands.

“We understood that the people and the culture will make people want to visit much more than a traditional sunset beach shot.

This campaign functions as a rallying cry and reminds us about what’s amazing about this city and celebrates it.”

Brighton Works welcomes The Great British Charcuterie Co The Great British Charcuterie Co is Monthly the latest business News to move into Brighton Works, which is a striking warehouse and industrial development in Bevendean.

The Brighton specialist food retailer has expanded its wholesale and online operations to become one of the country’s leading British cheese and charcuterie suppliers and needed a new base of operations to support its ambitions for growth.

There has been strong interest in renting units at Brighton Works, which has been extensively refurbished by developer Charter Land to a high standard, providing a total of seven warehouse and industrial units.

Charles Sandy, Director of Charter Land, said: ”We’ve had strong interest and are in the process of finalising a number of further lettings to a range of companies, some with a focus on food and hospitality. ”We’re delighted to welcome The Great British Charcuterie Co to Brighton Works and support the business with

its plans for expansion and growth. ”Brighton Works has created an important central Brighton location for warehousing and light industrial businesses to answer the lack of good quality warehouse space in the city and demand from occupiers has been strong.”

The Great British Charcuterie Co, was established in 2016 and was founded by father and son team Simon and Phil Bartley. Starting off as a retail deli based in Brighton Marina and now with a second site in Hove, they have been expanding their wholesale and online operations, working closely with small scale artisan producers all over the country with a focus on animal welfare and sustainability.

Phil Bartley, Managing Director, The Great British Charcuterie Co said: ”When we heard about Brighton Works we knew this was the perfect place for us to base our growing businesses. Warehouse and industrial space in Brighton is in short supply so we’re very pleased we were able to find a home here with excellent transport links and that is so close to Brighton city centre.”

produce distributor Sun Harvest, which moved into Brighton Works in June.

Brighton Works at The Hyde, Auckland Drive, previously housed Brighton Sheet Metal, which closed in 2018. The redevlopment of the site brings much needed industrial space to the city, generating important local jobs, both for Bevendean and the wider Brighton area.

Located approximately three miles north east of the city centre near the A27, Lewes Road and Falmer Road, as well as Moulsecoomb Train Station, the site is well served by public transport. There is good parking and the units boast views of the South Downs. Units range in size from 1,750 sq ft to a combined total of 50,500 sq ft.

For more information, please visit www.brightonworks.space

The Great British Charcuterie Co joins local

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

MO NT H LY N E WS

Join The Sovereign Shines Light spectacle This December,

Monthly News

Premier Marinas

Eastbourne is inviting berth holders and the Sovereign Harbour

community to light up their boats and houses for Sovereign Shines.

Now in its fifth year, Sovereign Shines is a collaboration between Premier,

the Sovereign Harbour Berth Holders’

Association and The Rotary Club. Their aim is to encourage boat owners and local residents to get involved in the

light festivities at Christmas to boost

community spirit and raise much needed

funds for two amazing local organisations: the RNLI Eastbourne and Defiant Sports – an inclusive, not-for-profit organisation

sparkle of Christmas lights and finish

very tough year for RNLI fundraisers so

people active to improve their well-being

ten eating establishments.

keep launching to those in trouble on

which believes in getting and keeping and quality of life.

the evening with a meal at one of the

Also new for this year, a bespoke

receiving these donations will help us

the sea, and help keep our crews safe and warm on our boats through the

With the on water illuminations taking

fundraising page has been created for

added to this year’s competition, opening

of the entry into the 2020 light display:

Loretta Lock, Managing Director

holders and residents to get involved -

fundraising/my-page-1603358853194

very excited to be supported and

house, best rainbow illuminations and

All donations will be divided equally

new categories also bring bigger and

Sports and will make a huge difference

including a boat lift, high pressure wash

continue with the great work they do in

centre stage, new categories have been

voluntary donations to be made as part

up new creative opportunities for berth

https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/

categories ranging from the best boat/ even a ‘little and pretty’ display. The

between RNLI Eastbourne and Defiant

better prizes to this year’s competition,

in helping these local organisations

and launch, luxurious Christmas hampers

the community.

and dining out vouchers.

Mark Sawyer, coxswain at RNLI

With lights up by Friday 11th December,

Eastbourne said: “We are extremely

will become the central hub for

and we’re looking forward to some

stroll around the harbour to take in the

dark December days. This has been a

The Waterfront at Sovereign Harbour

grateful for Premier’s generosity

residents and visitors who wish to

welcome light and sparkle during the

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

winter months.”

at Defiant Sports said: “We are

look forward to putting the funds

raised towards further improving our

harbour-based sports hub for the local community to make use of. We look forward to welcoming you all at the

Defiant Sports Inclusion Hub soon!”

Registration to join in with the light display is now open. Sovereign

Harbour residents and boat owners

can apply by visiting The Waterfront website or directly visit https://

www.eastbournewaterfront.co.uk/

sovereign-shines-application-form/

SBT FINANCE

SUPPORT FOR BUSINESSES

DURING THE SECOND LOCKDOWN AND BEYOND

SBT FINANCE SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

FI NAN C E

Support for businesses during the second lockdown and beyond With the second wave of coronavirus infections upon us, the whole of England entered a four-week lockdown from 5 November. In line with the new restrictions, the Government has extended several of their financial support measures for businesses.

Finance

Coronavirus Job

hours back from the government (up to

(and notified to HMRC via an RTI

Retention Scheme

a cap of £2,500), although the employer

submission) on or before 30 October

(CJRS)

is required to pay employer pension

2020. This means that you are now

The Job Retention

and employer national insurance costs

able to furlough employees who

Scheme has now been

without reimbursement, in addition to

were previously not eligible for the

extended to the end of March 2021.

an employee’s pay for worked hours.

furlough grant.

• Employees that were employed and

The CJRS will broadly follow the same

However, the criteria for staff being

on the payroll on 23 September

rules as they stood in August, where

furloughed has changed:

2020 who were made redundant or

employers can furlough (wholly or

•E mployees are not required to have

stopped working afterwards can

partly) their staff and pay at least 80%

been on a CJRS claim previously.

be re-employed and claimed for.

of their usual pay for hours they did not

Similarly, employers who have never

The employer must have made an

work in the pay period.

claimed before are also eligible.

RTI submission to HMRC from 20

• The scheme is open to employees

March 2020 to 23 September 2020,

The employer can then reclaim 80%

who were employed and were

notifying a payment of earnings for

of an employee’s wages for unworked

included on the employer’s payroll

those employees.

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

FI NA NCE

(LRSG), which was originally introduced for tier three lockdown areas, is now available for any business required to close due to national measures.

from their premises and can continue to operate during the lockdown.

• Businesses that have chosen to close when they are not required.

• Businesses that are still subject to

Eligibility Businesses are eligible for the LRSG if they meet the following criteria:

previous closures such as nightclubs.

• Businesses that have reached the state aid limit.

•O ccupies property on which it pays business rates.

•H as been required to close because

Self-Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS) The third SEISS grant will cover 80% of average monthly trading profits (up to £7,500) for the period from November 2020 to the end of January 2021. The window for claiming the grant will open on 30 November.

To qualify for SEISS the individual must have satisfied all the following: • Income tax return for 2018/19 must have been submitted.

• Must be self-employed or a member of a partnership.

• Must have traded in the 2019/20 tax year.

• Must be intending to trade in the 2020/21 tax year.

• Must be trading at the time the grant application is made, or would be trading if it weren’t for COVID-19.

• Trading profits from self-employment must be at least 50% of total income.

• Trading profits from self-employment must be less than £50,000 in the 2018/19 tax year OR less than £50,000 on average over the 3 tax years 2016/17 – 2018/19.

• Must have lost trading profits due to COVID-19.

Business grants The Local Restrictions Support Grant

Local council funding Businesses may be eligible for funding

of the formal publication of restrictions

at the discretion of their local council

guidance that resulted in a first full day

if they are required to close but do not

of closure on or after 9 September.

pay business rates or are not required

This funding is not retrospective

to close but are severely impacted.

•H as been required to close for at least 3 weeks because of the lockdown.

•H as been unable to provide its usual

Business loans The deadline for applications for the

in-person customer service from its

government loan schemes have been

premises e.g. non-essential retail,

extended to 31 January 2021.

cafes or restaurants that provide a takeaway only service.

This includes: • Coronavirus Business Interruption

The LRSG counts towards state aid.

Businesses required to close in England due to restrictions will be

Loan Scheme.

• Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme.

eligible for the following:

• Bounce Back Loan Scheme.

•F or properties with a rateable value of

• Future Fund.

£15k or under, grants to be £1,334 per month, or £667 per two weeks; •F or properties with a rateable value of

With Bounce Back Loans, businesses will now be able to ‘top up’ their

between £15k-£51k grants to be £2,000

loans under the scheme had the full

per month, or £1,000 per two weeks;

amount permitted not been initially

•F or properties with a rateable value of

borrowed – lesser of £50,000 and

£51k or over grants to be £3,000 per

25% of total turnover. This option can

month, or £1,500 per two weeks.

only be used once, and it should be available to businesses from the week

Grants are based on the rateable value

commencing 9 November.

of the property on the first full day of restrictions and will be extended to

This information is correct as of 6th

cover each additional 3-week period.

November 2020. Visit our Coronavirus Hub for the latest updates: www.

Exclusions

carpenterbox.com/coronavirus

Certain businesses are not eligible to apply for the LRSG: •B usinesses which do not depend on providing direct in-person services

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

Great relationships Great conversations Great futures

We are an award-winning firm of Chartered Accountants, Chartered Tax Advisers, Business Consultants and Independent Financial Advisers with a reputation for innovation and excellence.

With our relationship led service, we look to understand the opportunities and challenges faced by you and your business. Our focus is always on client service, with open and honest relationships.

www.carpenterbox.com

Now, for tomorrow

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT

LEGA L

LEGAL

YOUR BUSINESS: IS THIS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO CHANGE?

BY CHARLIE PATTIHIS, SOLICITOR – HEALYS CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL

MANAGING DIRECTOR APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF THE SUSSEX LAW SOCIETY

CONGRATULATIONS TO LUCY TARRANT, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF COGNITIVE LAW

SBT LEGAL SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

Your Business: Is This Your Opportunity to Change?

By Charlie Pattihis, Solicitor – Healys Corporate & Commercial The global pandemic

Legal

and its all-consuming

impact on businesses, not only in the UK

but across the world,

means that many business owners have

been forced to pivot and/or innovate just to survive.

This is a huge opportunity for business owners to reflect on their current processes and to take steps to

strengthen and adapt to the evolving ‘new normal’. If you’re changing the

way you do things, you need to make sure that any practical changes also work from a legal perspective and

complement your long term strategy.

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Here are a couple of things to think about.

Constitutional documents and

ownership arrangements: don’t have

the rug pulled out from beneath you…

Covid 19 has created one obvious

need for a review – the new way of

working means that many businesses have adapted to holding virtual team, management, board and/or member

meetings. Platforms such as ‘Zoom’, ‘Skype’ or ‘Microsoft Teams’ have

Have a look at your constitutional

been extremely successful during this

and/or shareholders’ agreement).

solution to some of the legal obstacles

looked at in some time but they are in

making processes.

Remember that these arrangements

Unfortunately, as is so often the case,

develops they too should be refreshed

innovation and there can be issues if

structure or practices.

allow for meetings to be held virtually.

documents (your articles of association

time and appear to have provided a

Chances are these have not been

facing businesses in the decision

fact extremely important documents. are not static – as your business

the law can be a few steps behind

to reflect changes in your underlying

your constitutional documents do not

LEGA L

If your articles require that notice of a

meeting should state the time, date and “place” for the meeting, this has been

interpreted that a meeting would have to be held in a physical place.

What does this actually mean for

your business I hear you ask? Well,

the bottom line is that there is a risk that any decisions taken at a virtual

meeting will be invalid. So, a decision to enter into a finance agreement or new commercial arrangement

could ultimately be unlawful. This

could potentially cause significant

contractual and financial problems

They are the

fastest growing

form of business ownership

structure in the

UK at the moment with more and

more business

owners recognising the opportunity to improve

performance and create a stronger business for the future.

for the business. It is also possible

So, why might

become personally liable for a breach

an Employee

that the directors themselves could of their director’s duties.

The current conservative approach is to make sure your constitution

expressly allows for virtual meetings.

We also recommend including

additional wording to make it clear that participants can attend, speak and vote at a virtual meeting.

A different kind of exit: If your ship

doesn’t come in, swim out and meet it!

Has the pandemic scuppered a potential sale of your business or, perhaps just

given you pause for thought about the

Charlie Pattihis

you think about Ownership structure for your business?

Legacy: Transferring ownership of the

business to your employees instead of selling to a third party can allow for a

more holistic exit. The transfer process can be implemented at a pace which suits your business allowing you to

continue to be involved and help the business grow more remotely whilst

bringing through the next generation

of leaders to take the business on and continue the culture and ethos you have created.

way in which you run your business

Empower and incentivise your

Traditional sales are very much still an

more like business owners are

now and how to plan for the future? option. But have you thought about Employee Ownership instead?

Employee Ownership structures allow businesses to implement

arrangements (usually tax efficient) so that they are either wholly or majority

owned by their employees (John Lewis is a great example of this) with the

employees either holding shares in

the company directly, via an Employee Ownership Trust company or a combination of both.

employees: Employees that think more likely to fully engage with that

business and work together to improve performance; and research has shown that employee-owned businesses

perform more strongly as a result of

a more collaborative culture. On top

of this, Employee Ownership can be

implementation of the transfer but,

perhaps more importantly for business owners, switching to an Employee Ownership structure allows for an

exit without the need to find a third

party buyer. On top of this the transfer itself can be funded by a mixture of

traditional bank financing and capital as well as by the business itself.

Tax: There are very attractive tax

incentives available when you switch to

certain Employee Ownership structures.

Given the question mark over the future of Entrepreneurs Relief this has to be a

consideration that shouldn’t be ignored.

If you’d like to speak in a bit more detail about any of the above points, Healys’ experienced Corporate Commercial

team are here to help. Our lawyers can advise and assist you in all contractual and corporate restructure matters. For more information or advice, please

contact us on 020 7822 4000 or email corporate@healys.com

a powerful recruitment tool you can

use to attract and nurture and inspire talented employees.

Flexibility: We have already

mentioned the benefits of a tailored

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

L EGAL

Managing Director of Cognitive Law appointed President of The Sussex Law Society On 15th October 2020 Lucy Tarrant, Managing Director of Cognitive Law was appointed President of The Sussex Law Society.

Legal

The election took

Lucy has grand

place at the first

plans for the

ever on-line Annual

year and will be

General Meeting

dedicating her

attended by the

time as President

General Committee, which each year

to supporting the

appoints the positions of President,

members in adapting

Vice-President, Honorary Treasurer

to change; as well as

and Honorary Secretary.

bringing awareness of solicitors’

Lucy Tarrant will hold that role for 1

wellbeing and

year, and takes over the mantle from

mental health to the

the outgoing president, Jacqueline

forefront.

Hardaway, Managing Partner of Dawson Lewis solicitors in Uckfield.

Having been appointed President,

Lucy Tarrant

Founded in 1860, The Sussex Law

Lucy Tarrant says:

Society is a professional organisation

“I am excited and

representing solicitors practising in

honoured to accept

the central Sussex area. It provides

this role, during what

invaluable benefits to its members,

are uncertain and potentially difficult

including local training as well as a

times for law firms. I will be drawing on

platform to share news and local legal

my experience of flexible and remote

updates. In this much-coveted role

working to help fellow professionals

Lucy Tarrant will continue to lead and

adapt and thrive whilst maintaining a

support The Sussex Law Society’s

supportive and collegiate environment

members during the next 12 months.

in which to practice.”

As the owner of boutique consultancy

The Sussex Law Society Chief

law firm Cognitive Law, Lucy Tarrant

Operating Officer, Jeanette Lacy-Scott

has a passion for creating a true

said of the AGM: “Congratulations

work life balance for solicitors. Lucy’s

Lucy Tarrant - I was so uplifted by your

fresh approach to how legal services

talk of camaraderie in the profession

can be delivered will be invaluable in

and your vision of how the Sussex

supporting members at this tough time.

Law Society can support its members in these difficult times, particularly

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

our Junior Lawyers. And thanks to Jacqueline Hardaway who has been an amazing President over the past 18 months and an absolute joy to work with. It was a fun first virtual AGM and set a positive tone for the year ahead in spite of everything!”

To find out more about The Sussex Law Society visit www.sussex-law.co.uk

SBT PROPERTY

THE CASE AGAINST BUY TO LET WITH MHA CARPENTER BOX

THE COST OF A NEW COMMERCIAL PREMISES

BY MAX POLLOCK, EIGHTFOLD PROPERTY

CAREER IN CONSTRUCTION BECKONS FOR LUCKY TRAINEES THANKS TO A COURSE ORGANISED BY BRIGHTON’S EDWARD STREET QUARTER

SBT PROPERTY SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

T H I N K TAN K

The case against Buy to Let

Buy to Let (BTL) is in the news again as a hot topic, with investors looking for ways to generate income in the current low interest environment.

Potential property

Property

investors are

attracted to the

savings to be made whilst the stamp

duty holiday is in force.

However there are some drawbacks to

using BTL either as an income stream or as an investment.

Here are the top 6 offending factors which may deter you:

1. T he cost of set up: If you own the

BTL as a second property you will still have to pay stamp duty at 3% of the purchase price.

2. C omplicated: you may have to

arrange landlords insurance and a tenancy deposit scheme

3. Y ou run the risk of having times when

the property is empty. But you will still have to pay for any bills or mortgage

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

whilst not having rent coming in.

4. C ost of property repairs if your

tenants damage the property, and general upkeep.

5. C ost of agents fees. If you don’t

want to be bothered with finding

and vetting tenants and property inspections an agent can do the

job for you, but fees can eat into your profits.

6. If you decide to sell you will have

yet more costs to consider, Capital

Gains Tax could be charged at 28% for a higher rate tax payer What are the options?

Consider an investment instead. Whilst there are fees for advice these will

almost certainly be less expensive than the eyewatering stamp duty for second property owners. Some investments

can offer the chance to draw a tax free income or capital from them.

Although all asset classes, whether it be property or equities can rise and

fall in value, an investment or pension

will never call you in the early hours of a Sunday morning to report a broken boiler or blocked drain.

Further help

If you would like assistance or more information on this matter, please

contact our team on 01903 534587.

The value of your investments can

go down as well as up, so you could get back less than you invested. The

Financial Conduct Authority does not

regulate some Buy to Let mortgages or Tax Advice.

P RO PE RTY

The cost of a new commercial premises

By Max Pollock of Eightfold Property. Keep up with the blog on our website.

There are varying levels of experience in the Property commercial property market, from those that have been in business for what seems like forever and have an established brand, to those that are making their first forays into the business world on their own. No matter where you fall on this scale, there is always a question when taking on a new premises and that is: what are the costs that you need to make provision for when purchasing or taking a lease on a commercial property?

This blog should tell you a little about what you’ll need to look out for.

Solicitors costs Providing that you use a solicitor, you will have solicitors’ costs to pay. Not only will you have the solicitor’s fees to pay but there will also be disbursements for searches, bank transfers & similar.

In addition to your own legal costs when taking a lease, you may also be responsible for the landlord and or the outgoing tenant & in some instances the vendor on a purchase. When paying the legal costs of another party this is often at the outset & will be done by way of an undertaking provided by your solicitor once you have put them in funds.

Stamp duty Most people are fairly aware that when you purchase a property that stamp duty will be payable on the purchase depending on the properties value, however, it’s not so commonly known that stamp duty can be payable on occupational leases also, so it is worthwhile researching this on the HMRC website or being advised by

your solicitor or accountant.

Valuation/ Finance Fees If you require finance for your purchase you will also need to factor in any fees that will be required for the cost of the valuation or fees that you need to pay to the broker or your bank to provide this finance. Some of these may need to be paid up front, rather than being added to your loan.

Survey If you choose to have a survey when you take on a property, this will give you some peace of mind & protection.

However there is also an additional cost for this to consider.

Rent in Advance/ Service Charge/ Insurance When you lease a property, you will normally need to pay an element of rent in advance this is quite often a quarter’s rent or an apportionment up to the next quarter day, whilst service charge & insurance will also be collected in a similar manner & can also apply to long leasehold & freehold property too.

Premium When taking a lease for a commercial property, you can often pay an upfront fee to purchase that lease from the existing leaseholder which is called a premium.

This will be payable on completion with a fraction payable on exchange of contracts if this takes place.

Max Pollock

a large sum of rent in advance has it’s appeal to landlords, it is not the same thing as a rent deposit which provides more long term security. You may be required to pay either, or both when taking a lease of a commercial property.

Purchase price This will be the sum you pay for the property if purchasing. In most instances, you will pay a deposit of 5 or 10% on exchange of contracts with the balance payable on completion. This may seem like a simple thing to know, but being certain of your purchase price is always crucial.

If you have any commercial property questions you’d like answered, please get in touch and you might see the answer feature in a future blog.

Rent Deposit When taking a leasehold property in most instances a rent deposit will be required. A rent deposit should not be confused with rent in advance, whilst

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

Career in construction beckons for lucky trainees Eight trainees have taken their first step to a job in construction thanks to a course organised by Brighton’s newest destination, Edward Street Quarter.

The course, in conjunction with Property McLaren Construction and Brighton & Hove City Council’s Economic Development Office and Youth Employability Service, aims to help local students who have been out of education, employment or training.

Those involved included rehabilitating ex-offenders and long-term unemployed, with training led by Skills Training UK at Brighton’s Tower Point.

Steve Eccles, Project Director at First Base, the developer for Edward Street Quarter said: “The aim is to help young trainees in this group earn an accreditation that will enable them to get a foot on the career ladder.

“This will be in the form of a green card enabling them to work on construction

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

sites. It is, we hope, the first step in their journey.

“We will continue to work with them over the lifetime of the development using funds that we have put aside to upskill them.”

A representative from First Base visited the course on Friday and Edward Street Quarter’s logistics contractor held a question and answer session on Zoom with the trainees.

The lessons covered Health and Safety Level 1 and will eventually lead to a Construction Skills Certificate Scheme green card.

At the end of the learning, the trainees will sit a test in which they need to correctly answer 45 out of 50 questions to obtain the qualification.

The course is part of a commitment by Edward Street Quarter, a development of Grade A office space, apartments, retail and recreational space on the site of the old Amex building, to support its local community.

Some of the trainees could even end up working on site.

Steve Eccles added: “It’s an exciting time for the trainees as they start to build their careers, and we are delighted to give them that opportunity. Already two of the cohort are working with our logistics partner and we’ll do all we can to help them find work when the course is completed.”

For more information, please visit https://edwardstreetquarter. mclarengroup.com/

SBT

P RO PE RTY

SALES & MARKETING

ADAPTING YOUR STYLE FOR THE NEW WAY OF SELLING

BY THE PITCH COMMUNITY, SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS’

A WIN FOR 67 DEGREES

CELEBRATING WIN AT NATIONAL AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY AWARDS

SBT SALES & MARKETING SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

Adapting your style for the new way of selling

By Ric Hayden, PITCH Sales & Marketing

2020 has been a difficult year for

business. From having to pivot your offering overnight to thinking

of new ways to live and work. Taking stock for just a few minutes of what

has been achieved; we see some pretty amazing stories to celebrate. However, not everyone has been as successful

through the summer as they would like

to be and thanks to the lockdown, we’re all back to being virtual sellers.

Across the country, many businesses have had little choice but to adapt

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

their products and the way they

work, whether it be Zoom meetings with clients or staff, or in my case,

delivering training and development programmes remotely. While this

has undoubtedly caused all kinds of unknown problems for businesses

who relied on face-to-face meetings to sell their products and services, many are starting to see benefits. Some

people have adapted well, and others are still finding it hard to move to a

new way of working. Building virtual

relationships is an efficient, scalable

and effective way to continue to grow your business.

We have been speaking to as many

businesses as we can to look at their

new ways of selling. We don’t just talk about how to sell virtually; mostly we talk about how we like to buy. Taking time to understand your customers,

what has changed for them and how

they would like to be sold to is key to

being successful. Some of things that

we found easy in face-to-face meetings

are no longer available to us. Such as the way we build rapport and understand

body language. Now more than ever it is important to understand the customers natural characteristics and be able to adapt your style to suit their needs.

SAL ES & MARKE TI NG not only selling to customers face-to-face but also how

to sell and be confident in a virtual environment.

If you are Fiery Red, who likes a fast-paced action-oriented

meeting, and you are dealing

with Earth Green, who likes a

calm meeting where they have some time to think, this could mean that these two styles

may clash. It is here that as

the person leading the meeting clients. The consultants that support businesses, and brokers that get

amazing deals in place for clients.

The community is for those that may

not have had formal sales training but would like to up-skill in this area and

generate more business, closing more deals and delighting more clients with the work they do.

The programme consists of six, 3-hour Sales Training workshops. After

these the Pitch Community will meet once per month. There will be the

opportunity to learn tried and tested techniques to enhance your selling Your customers deserve much more

skills and then go put them in to

no way of knowing what excellent sales

minded group members and hold each

is unique. You may think you know what

learning, and generate more business

than a one size fits all approach, there is

practice. You will network with like-

and service is because every customer

other to account to implement the

makes your customers happy but if you

moving forward.

find that the way they like to be sold to

In the first workshop on the Pitch

that you like to sell.

Programme, we help individuals

This is why we developed Pitch.

customers, helping them build

support small businesses, independent

do this using Insights Discovery,

programme is for those that do not fall

that’s helps individuals understand

are rather the subject matter experts;

communication style, and how this

business to business projects for their

and colleagues. It is this that supports

were to dig a little deeper you might just isn’t quite hitting the mark in the way

Community Foundation in Selling understand themselves and their

Community. Pitch has been designed to

more successful relationships. We

sole traders and creatives. The

an innovative psychometric tool

into a full-time salesperson role but

their own personal preferences and

the creatives that deliver amazing

might be perceived by their customers

you get the opportunity to

adjust your style to the needs

of your customer and build a better, stronger relationship.

Virtual selling is here to stay and is an effective way to sell - providing

you work at the skills required. Seven

months ago, having your video on when you’re on a call would have been odd, yet now my phone is redundant, and I

seem to be a Zoom expert. Before the

lockdown, most people would have their video off, but now most are happy to

show themselves on screen. This makes it a lot easier to build rapport and also

easier to get more than one stakeholder into a discussion. This makes your conversations more productive.

Finally, and I don’t know about you, but I’m also finding people are more open

about their situations at the moment. So, if you are ready to talk about your selling skills and want to grow your business, get in touch and we can have a chat

about how best we can support you. www.pitch.community

www.learningcog.com hello@pitch.community

Proud supporters of Sussex Nightstop

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

Shoreham Based 67 Degrees Celebrates Win At National Automotive Industry Awards Automotive website design and marketing specialists, 67 Degrees, is celebrating after winning the coveted Website Provider for Independent Dealers award at the industry’s Car Dealer Power Awards 2020.

Sales & Marketing

Held virtually this

at 6pm. The Car Dealer Power Awards

this year and a shortlist was drawn up by

year due to the

recognises the best suppliers and car

a judging panel, followed by feedback

COVID-19 pandemic,

manufacturers, and are the only awards

and testimonials being analysed to

the awards were

in the automotive industry which are

determine the winner of each category.

broadcast via

voted for by the dealers themselves.

YouTube and Car Dealer Magazine’s website on Wednesday 30 September

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

For the third year in a row, 67 Degrees has Thousands of car dealers cast their vote

been presented with a Car Dealer Power

SAL ES & MARKE TI NG

Shoreham Airport site at the beginning

our team - alongside the support of

of the year. This move was shortly

our customers - to be announced as

followed by the worldwide COVID-19

winners once again.”

pandemic, which saw the UK enter a period of strict lockdown. Being a

Co-director, Justin Woodford, adds to

digital-based company, the 67 Degrees

the excitement. He says: “The team has

team were able to work remotely

worked tirelessly throughout lockdown

and effectively create and deliver

to support our customers and we’re all

online buying solutions to meet their

genuinely thrilled to win the award. It’s

customers demands.

a huge pat on the back for us and what makes it even more special, is that the

In a relatively short space of time, the

award is voted for by our customers.

small company has made a big name for itself in the automotive industry,

“We are extremely passionate about

having moved into the franchise dealer

what we do here at 67 Degrees. A lot

market and working with some high

of us have worked in the automotive

profile businesses.

industry for many years now and we have a real desire to see our customers

Introducing the award, James Baggott,

and the wider sector performing well.”

Founder of Car Dealer Magazine, commented: “With physical showrooms

67 Degrees is looking positively towards

closed, dealers up and down the country

the future and has invested heavily in its

turned to their websites to keep their

offering by developing an e-Commerce

businesses running.

product, which is being rolled out to customers as of now.

“It was the website designers that

Award - adding to their 13 industry awards in total since the company was founded in 2016. In the last two years, 67 Degrees has been the recipient of the Website Provider for Independent Dealers award and in 2018, were also bestowed with the prestigious Extra Mile Award, which recognises a company that has gone over and above to support its customers.

During what has been a difficult six months for the automotive industry, 67 Degrees has continued to dig deep and provide unrivalled support to its customers. The company is run by co-directors Laura Coleby and Justin Woodford, who manage a team of 10 staff.

It’s been a testing time for the company, having moved into new offices on the

burned the midnight oil to get them

Speaking of plans in the pipeline, Laura

up-and-running when they needed

says: “The UK automotive industry is

it most. Our winner is a small firm

resilient and we’re very optimistic about

with big ambitions and a fantastic

what the future holds for us. We’re

reputation; their clients couldn’t

working on a number of big projects

praise them highly enough. Our

with some high profile industry names

winner is 67 Degrees.”

which will see the light of day over the coming months.

67 Degrees Director, Laura Coleby, explains why winning the Website

“We’re also excited to announce

Provider for Independent Dealers award

that we’re moving into the main

means so much to the team. She says:

dealer franchise space, with our first

“We’ve been fortunate enough to win

franchise customer going live before

this award for three consecutive years

the end of the year, so there’s lots for

now, however, this year’s win feels

us to look forward to!”

particularly special, given the global situation we’ve found ourselves in.

You can stay up-to-date with all the latest news from 67 Degrees via

“When Justin and I started the

their social media platforms, or visit

business, we pledged to offer fantastic

www.67degrees.co.uk for more

customer service, teamed with hands-

information.

on support and guidance. Winning the award reaffirms our approach and it’s testament to the hard work of

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

SA L E S & MARK E T I N G

Your people as your biggest asset

The Coronavirus pandemic is continuing to cost lives and livelihoods across the world.

Many professional services firms have adapted to new restrictions, changing client demands and ongoing economic uncertainty.

Sales & Marketing

In our October

conference, we looked at ideas

and practices that

professional services

firms can implement to adapt to and

even seize the new normal. But what about the people in the business?

Your people are the backbone of your

organisation and have played their part in keeping the business going through the pandemic. Added pressures – be

they physical, mental or financial – affect their wellbeing, and the impact on your

business should not be underestimated.

In the December edition of PSMC, we

explore ways that professional services

firms can effectively look after their people,

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

and in the process create an engaged,

registering, please ensure that you

motivated and resilient workforce.

include a postal address where you are

Attendees will learn:

up to the event.

1. How a law firm has implemented a successful cultural change

able to receive the delivery in the lead

The event will be run virtually via Remo

programme

and is supported by Network my Club.

increase motivation in an increasingly

You can find out more about the

2. Techniques and tips on how to remote world

event here.

you need to engage with it now

• Consortium clients will receive 1

stakeholder buy in

• Early bird £30 + VAT and booking fees

3. How to spot signs of burnout and why 4. How to increase senior partner and

And if that isn’t enough, you will also

receive a refreshing Gin & Tonic in the post to enjoy during the networking element of the conference. When

free ticket

(until 25th Nov 2020)

• General admission £40 + VAT and booking fees (from 25th Nov 2020)

SBT CHARITY

HAVE SOME REINDEER FUN THIS DECEMBER! WITH LOCAL CHILDREN’S HOSPICE, CHESTNUT TREE HOUSE

WHO CARES FOR OUR DISABLED VETERANS?

WITH CARE FOR VETERANS, CARING FOR DISABLED EX-SERVICE PERSONNEL

WE TALK TO SUSSEX NIGHTSTOP WITH ALISON MARINO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

CHOSEN CHARITY PARTNER:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

C HA RI T Y

Have some Reindeer Fun this December!

Throughout these

Charity

challenging times, you have been an

amazing support to

your local children’s

hospice, Chestnut Tree House. We know how difficult it has been for

everyone, particularly for businesses.

So, let us look forward and celebrate Christmas together!

This December, why don’t you grab

your antlers and have some Reindeer

Fun? Whether you want to Run, Cycle, Row, Ramble, or come up with your

own challenge, Chestnut Tree House will provide everything you need for your Reindeer Fun event, including

free reindeer antlers and red noses for everyone taking part, online materials and helpful hints and tips.

Taking part in Reindeer Fun is a

fantastic way to boost staff morale, attract positive PR, fulfil your

corporate and social responsibility and much more! Whilst spreading

the festive cheer at your workplace, your fantastic fundraising will be

making the world of difference to

local children with life-shortening conditions, like Jack, and their

families. Helping them live life to the full and, when the time comes, say goodbye in the way they want.

Jack’s story

Meet Jack. “Jack is just the happiest little dude, he wakes up and goes to bed with a smile on his face”, says

Mum, Emma. Jack lives in Portsmouth with his Mum, Emma, and Dad, Kevin.

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Like many eight-

year olds, he loves spending time

outdoors, jumping on his trampoline and

playing in the garden.

“Jack is our beautiful miracle baby. At

three weeks old, we thought we would

have to say goodbye to him. They told

us he would never talk, never sit up

and never speak.”

Jack was born with Lowes Syndrome, a genetic disease

that primarily affects his eyes, brain, and

Jack

kidneys, resulting in Jack having severe

complex medical needs and requiring 24-hour care.

When Jack was four years old, his

school nurse recommended that the family seek support from Chestnut

Tree House. “I remember the first time we visited the hospice building near

Arundel. Jack got treated like absolute royalty; anything he wanted, he got.

He loved it. I expected it to be grey

and dull and quiet, but it was not. It was loud, bright, and lovely. Within an hour of being in the house Jack

disappeared and was doing his own thing, he just loved it.”

Three years on, the family have regular visits from the community care team

who visit them in their own home in

Portsmouth and take Jack out to explore the local community.

“We don’t know what we would do

without Chestnut, we wouldn’t even

want to think about it – it would be a

nightmare. I’d have no hair for starters!

But seriously, they are there for

everything. They are always on the other end of the phone, they are so friendly,

knowledgeable, and all-round amazing.

They let Jack live his best life.”

Are you ready to get your colleagues together and spread some festive

cheer? What Reindeer activity will you take on this year? To sign up, visit

www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/ reindeer-fun

Che st nut Tree Hou se R eindee r Fu n!

COVER FE ATU RE

c

b

Grab your antlers this December and hold your very own Reindeer Fun challenge for Chestnut Tree House!

b

y

c

c

c

c

b

y

For more information: 07795 353796 www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/reindeer-fun Registered charity number: 256789

b

Have some festive fun with your colleagues A great way to boost staff morale Plus free antlers and red noses for everyone taking part!

c

b

c

c

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

C HA RI T Y

Who cares for our disabled veterans?

For 101 years, Care for Veterans has been caring for disabled ex-Service personnel from the RAF, Army, Royal Navy and auxiliary services from across the UK.

Current residents in

Charity

the charity’s 60-bed facility are aged

between 34 and

96 years old. The

majority have Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)

or a degenerative neurological condition, such as Multiple Sclerosis, Motor

Neurone Disease and Parkinson’s.

Care for Veterans receives no regular Government funding, and each year needs to raise over £1.9 million to

continue delivering its first-class and award-winning care.

The charity is proud of the high

level of professional nursing care, rehabilitation, respite and award-

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

winning end of life care it provides to residents. Its multi-disciplinary

approach includes physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and

neuropsychology, as well as social and recreational activities and a chaplaincy

service – all delivered from its facility in Worthing, West Sussex.

“Not only is each type of illness

different, but each individual is different too”, explains Matthew Li, Registered Manager at Care for Veterans.

Matthew continues: “Through our

tailored and comprehensive approach, residents can make good progress

towards their goals, to give our veterans

the very best quality of life in spite of their disability.

“We provide many different types of nursing care and services to meet the needs of each resident. As an

independent provider, we can fill the

gaps often found between healthcare and social services. We provide our

residents with access to a complete range of services for people with

physical disabilities and complex needs.

“Our facility has a ‘home-from-

home’ environment which helps

prevent residents from becoming

institutionalised and keep them focused on the future. Our emphasis is on

rehabilitation, and, where possible,

CHA RITY

sessions, to cycle the 874-mile distance from Land’s End to John O Groats,

due to finish on his 45th birthday on

21st November. He has already raised over £1,000 in sponsorship. There is

still time to sponsor Steve, go to www. justgiving.com/fundraising/davidcurry4steve-boylan.

Your support

Here are three ways you can help Care

for Veterans to continue to provide these services for our nation’s veterans.

• Sign up for a lottery ticket! Sign up

for just £4 a month you can be in with a

chance of winning the top prize of £200.

• Sign up for an event – put a team

in or sponsor the Clay Pigeon Shoot

happening next March or the next Golf Day in April.

getting residents to a point where they

him paralysed on one side of his body.

community and on their own.”

Before his accident, Steve had served

are able to cope living in the wider

Over 100 years caring for veterans Care for Veterans (formerly the

Queen Alexandra Hospital Home)

was established in 1919 to care for

those soldiers returning from World

War I with life-changing disabilities.

The charity was initially based in

Roehampton, London, and moved to

its current home in Worthing in 1933.

Today, anyone who has served in HM Forces at any time or in any capacity, and their immediate family members, are eligible for admission to Care

for Veterans. An individual’s injury

or condition does not need to have

happened during service to be eligible.

Steve’s story

Ex-Army Warrant Officer, Steve, was

just 39 when a motorbike accident left him with a severe brain injury which

seriously affected his speech and left

with the Royal Engineers in Kosovo,

Afghanistan and Sierra Leone. He was a Joint Service Mountain Expedition

Leader, loved canoeing, mountain biking and snowboarding.

Steve came to Care for Veterans

in December 2018, after spending

three years in various hospitals and rehabilitation centres where he was

not making progress and had become depressed. Since his arrival, he has

made improvements in his speech and movements.

Steve’s life and dreams are forever

changed, but Care for Veterans is already having a positive impact on his life. Steve says: “Care for Veterans has given me

a new mindset and the determination to succeed with my recovery”.

This year, he challenged himself to use the static bike in his physiotherapy

• Become a partner – A charity

partnership can be of great benefit to your company and employees.

“Draper Tools chose to support Care for Veterans in 2019 as both organisations celebrated their centenary year. If we’d have put together a template for how

we wanted the charity partnership to go, it could not have gone any better, and

Draper Tools are so pleased with how the relationship progressed throughout the year. Care for Veterans were receptive to what we wanted to undertake and

achieve and were with us every step of the way”, says Clive at Draper Tools.

Care for Veterans is a place of support, comfort and hope for

veterans who are now facing the toughest battle of their lives.

To find out more, visit www.

careforveterans.org.uk, email

fundraising@careforveterans.org.uk or call the fundraising team on 01903 218444.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

We talk to Sussex Nightstop

Alison Marino is Executive Director of Brighton based charity Sussex Nightstop.

Sussex Nightstop co-ordinate volunteer hosts who provide a safe place to stay for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Charity

Who does Sussex

Somewhere safe to sleep is essential

Sussex Nightstop

and confidence with which to access

for young people and

in securing a safe, longer-term home.

Nightstop help?

in people having the means, energy

provides a safety-net

the resources and support necessary

adults aged 16 upwards in the Brighton

Our volunteer hosts provide just that.

forced to sleep rough. The risks of

individuals can sleep well, have a

physical and mental wellbeing, are well

including somewhere private to wash

worsens the outlook for that person.

otherwise bleak situation.

& Hove area who may otherwise be

By opening up their spare room,

rough-sleeping, including the threat to

hot meal, access crucial amenities

known and every night of rough-sleeping

and above all experience kindness in an

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The majority of Nightstop guests have either suffered a family or relationship breakdown or breakdown of their

tenancy often brought about by a number of combining pressures

such as a strain on finances due to income loss or austerity measures, the challenge of living with poor

mental health and a local private

rental market increasingly beyond

affordability. Regardless of reason, Nightstop guests are individuals –

CHA RITY

in contact. Every part of our journey to

Sometimes we just need a reminder

organised and any fears were eased

particular situation and it is so helpful to

The hardest people to convince were

worried about.

here as they were involved. Meeting an

As a trustee CV-19 is certainly

changer that got them on side.

been so good to re-open this valuable

So impressed have we been with

coming months and have adapted the

looking for trustees to join the board

hosts. The adapted training for CV-19

becoming a host was smooth and well

from our training about what to do in a

by the extensive and thorough training.

be able to chat through a guest we are

our sons but the training really helped actual Nightstop guest was the game Tim & Loretta

both interesting and interested in life, often working or studying, who have aspirations and plans and who just need a secure place from which to navigate this phase in their life.

What difference has Covid-19 made?

Covid-19 has brought even more

anxiety for those facing or experiencing

presenting us with challenges but it has service. We have a clear plan for the

Nightstop that when I saw they were

service well I think to reassure us as

I applied immediately and was lucky

for hosts was excellent.

been very enlightening seeing it from

What do you enjoy about being a host?

what we need to do over these

it’s only a little bit.

homelessness crisis which still exists.

Here’s how you can help:

enough to have been selected. It has a Trustee perspective, recognising coming months to respond to the

Just being able to help someone even if

• Volunteer Hosts: get trained and

homelessness. Many families and

What kind of people come to stay

lockdown circumstances and the end of

The Nightstop guests we have

• Fundraisers: organise activities to raise

They look and sound just like our

• Businesses: talk to us about getting

are quite happy to keep themselves

• Spread the word: tell your friends

individuals have faced challenging

the furlough scheme and the prospect of a recession on the horizon will only

precipitate the issues that place people at risk of homelessness.

Never has a community response

been so needed and ensuring we have a pool of Volunteer Hosts ready and waiting is a top priority.

Tim Williamson, along with his

partner Loretta, is a Volunteer Host

at Sussex Nightstop using his spare room as a safe place for Nightstop

guests to stay and Tim has recently become a Trustee.

Why did you join Sussex Nightstop?

I can’t quite remember how we heard about Nightstop but I’m glad we did.

We have wanted to help with rough sleeping and homelessness for a

while and hadn’t found the right way.

Nightstop seemed perfect – the idea is so simple: use your spare room to

help someone avoid ending up on the streets. We had a spare room so got

with you?

hosted have all felt strangely familiar. teenage sons or their friends. Most

to themselves after we have shown

them their room, taken their clothes

supported to offer your spare room to a young person or adult

funds for Sussex Nightstop involved

about what we do

to be washed, shown them where

For more information on volunteering

important WiFi code! Some want to

Volunteer enquiries:

talk you realise they are often very

contact-us/

Something has happened to them

Website: www.sussexnightstop.org.uk

but we are trained not to ask, just to

Facebook: Sussex Nightstop

the bathroom is and shared our all-

or to donate visit:

chat over food or TV and when we

www.sussexnightstop.org.uk/

articulate, intelligent and driven.

or call 07788 318 905

which means they are staying with us

Twitter: @SussexNighstop

listen if they want to share.

Donations:

Have there been any challenges?

sussexnightstop/

https://localgiving.org/charity/

Mostly for us it can be the practical

challenge of trying to clear space in our lives to offer a few consecutive nights to offer Nightstop guests. Otherwise the Nightstop team make sure that

things run smoothly. The 24 hour on call support is such a reassuring service, even if rarely used, as is the call the

following morning with the co-ordinator.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 39

Virtual Charity Christmas Quiz Monday 7th December 2020 At 7.45PM Sign up now justgiving.com/fundraising/share77k

Sponsored by

In partnership with

ÂŁ77k target - 10 charities - 10th birthday

40 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT

CHA RITY

COVER FEATURE

A TIME OF PIVOTAL CHANGE

WE HEAR FROM GLENN BALLARD, CEO OF BRIGHTON BASED NEW WORLD TECH

SBT COVER FEATURE SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

A time of pivotal change Small businesses, hit hard by the economic impact of the coronavirus, have had to pivot to survive. In this, the first of a series of four articles, Glenn Ballard, CEO of Brighton based New World Tech talks to SBT. Over the last two

Cover feature

years, NWT has seen business imperatives evolve at breakneck speed, heightened

by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is no longer possible to craft long-term

strategies, assign responsibility and performance targets and execute a three- to five-year plan. Today,

companies need to be able to respond to highly-volatile customer demand

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

and adapt to severe disruption and change at dizzying pace.

NWT provides a portfolio of Digital Consultancy Services that enable businesses to outmanoeuvre

uncertainty and gain above market

growth and sustainable competitive advantage. They achieve this by

helping clients implement an intelligent digital transformation journey that balances speed and value and

embraces the key digital imperatives that are shaping our world: pivotal

change in response to the coronavirus

pandemic, improved agility, an aligned IT and business strategy, delivering a world-class user experience and

ensuring the business is cost-effective.

In this article, Glenn discusses the

impact of COVID-19 on his company, his family and friends and what he is doing to help small, often financially fragile

COVER FE ATU RE customer base of small to medium

sized businesses as well as enterprise clients of which I am extremely

proud. I have seen the impact of the

pandemic on my customers and also within my own family and circle of friends first hand.

When COVID-19 hit it took us all

by surprise, I do not think any of us

understood just how big it was going

to be. Now it is blatantly obvious that there was no going back to ‘normal’ after the current surge of cases had

been handled. We need to be prepared possibly for another nine months

of Covid-19 restrictions, involving repeated waves of the virus.

My own business is in the technology sector, and while technology can

greatly aid small businesses of all

kinds, for example by enabling remote working, not all changes right now depend entirely on technology.

Unlike larger firms, small businesses,

cafes, bars, dental practices, gyms, day care centres and hairdressers do not

have the financial resources to overcome a few rough days or weeks, let alone

months. In an effort to stay alive and stay businesses and entrepreneurial ventures in the Sussex area. Glenn states:

“It has been nine months since the world as we knew it changed; nine months since we were freely able to hug our

families, double-kiss our friends, take spontaneous trips out of the country,

and eat out or go for a drink whenever and however we wanted. Around us

the widespread closing of stores and businesses due to the coronavirus is

unprecedented with many businesses

closed. For some of these businesses, the closures may be permanent.

COVID-19 disruptions have not affected all small businesses equally. Some

businesses are deemed essential and

are able to remain open, while for others unprecedented lockdown measures, enacted to contain the spread of the

virus, have forced them to shut up shop.

In the face of a truly catastrophic financial environment, some

businesses have made adjustments to the way they conduct themselves – or

have shifted their approaches entirely.

And they have done these things under the stress of laying off employees,

shutting down offices or having to give up on their dream entirely.

I founded NWT in 2016, and over

the last four years have built a loyal

relevant, I believe that small businesses need to look at innovative pivots that

enable them to reinvent themselves and push into new markets.

Empty hotels for example, could open up rooms to employees working from

home who have run out of space (and patience). Hotels could offer remote

workers private access to a hotel room turned office suite, complete with fast internet and a quite atmosphere, for a daily or weekly rate.

Restaurants could offer customers

access to fresh produce, precooked dishes with sides or additions that could be prepared at home using

ingredients supplies by the restaurant.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

C OVE R F E AT URE

With customers barred from entering a large number of small businesses, brands have pivoted to offer online consultations, curb side pickup

for online and phone orders, home

deliveries and online instant ordering.

Online events focused on cooking,

mediation, art therapy, magic, song

writing and many other activities with users joining for a modest fee help

connect businesses to new customers who can order products online.

Gyms and fitness companies can live stream exercise classes and release at-home workout plans, 30-day

Healthy at Home fitness challenges.

Estate agents are selling houses

via video, recruitment agencies are

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

recruiting via video and casual dating

In December we will be holding a

platforms are offering video dating.

free Webinar to discuss how small

Undergoing a massive transformation

dealing with the crisis and preparing

be the only way many companies stay

network with other local businesses and

when our world was turned upside

they have implemented not just to

small business leaders and trailblazers

unprecedented change. I hope you will

businesses in the Sussex area are

and pivoting to a new direction could

for recovery. It will be an opportunity to

alive. So, in the early months of 2020,

discuss some of the pivotal changes

down, we created a community of

survive, but to thrive in a period of

to tackle the problems and challenges

find the time to join and look forward to

we faced as a collective, head on.

meeting you then. Stay safe!�

Using our experience working with

To register for the Webinar or for more

able to help small and medium sized

on www.newworldtech.io

our enterprise clients, we have been companies secure and future proof their benefits it by leveraging the

benefits and innovation available in the cloud.

information, please visit our website

SBT

COVER FE ATU RE

PEOPLE MANAGEMENT & RECRUITMENT

HOW EMPLOYERS CAN BEST DEAL WITH MASS JOB APPLICATIONS

WITH HR DEPT

BUSINIESS HEROS NEEDED

TO SUPPORT SUSSEX TEENAGERS THROUGH COVID-19

SBT PEOPLE MANAGEMENT & RECRUITMENT SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

How employers can best deal with mass job applications Last month we addressed redundancy guilt and how to accentuate the positive when forced to make redundancies.

Sadly, in the three

HR

months of the second quarter of 2020 we

have seen the largest drop in employment

since the 2009 Financial Crisis, with

730,000 employees falling off payroll.

However, it is not all doom and gloom.

There are new businesses emerging

and many industries are thriving. As the many apply for the few job vacancies

employers may well feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of applicants.

How we manage the recruitment

process is incredibly important both for the individual applicant who is

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

desperately seeking work and for the good name of the company.

Recruitment done properly is timeconsuming and you want the best possible person to fill the role.

One way to limit the number of responses is to ensure that your job advert clearly sets out the qualifications, experience,

skills and knowledge that are essential to the role. The more specific you can

be the better, whilst of course avoiding

any discriminatory requirements such as age or gender. This is a strong first line of defence for discouraging unsuitable

applicants and protection against claims of discrimination.

If you are happy to accept CVs, then

ask for a covering letter to be sent

with the CV, setting out how they meet the requirements of the position, in

particular the skills and knowledge. Even better if you can use a properly created application form, as this ensures the

candidates have to fill out the required sections and makes comparison between the forms easier.

Even with these measures in place you may be inundated, so now the sifting

begins. You can’t interview everyone,

even if they were all suitably qualified.

Therefore, weed out those where no

covering letter was provided with the

P EOP L E MAN AGEM EN T & R ECR UITM E NT

cv, if requested, where covering letters which have obviously been cut and

pasted, contain poor spelling or have got the company name wrong.

For the ones that remain, score them against the pre-set criteria you are

looking for, and as with so much else in

HR, keep records (you should retain the CVs, letters and application forms of all unsuccessful applicants for six months from the date you advised them they were unsuccessful).

Decide where you draw the line on your scoring system and progress your best candidates through to a telephone interview. Prepare your

questions and ask everyone the same ones, again have a strict marking policy and record keeping.

After this stage, you should leave

yourself with a manageable shortlist for

Don’t forget that each application, no

The HR Dept is now the UK’s largest

who needs a job and has spent time

outsourced HR support. Our clients

into your process by replying to

brands, across all industries.

if it is just with a well-crafted pre-

We pride ourselves on delivering cost-

been rejected emails to ask why they

HR solutions that leave you free to

matter how poor, represents someone

network of HR professionals providing

applying to you. Inject some empathy

vary, from tiny start-ups to established

everyone - it is good manners - even written email. If someone who has

effective employment law advice and

were unsuccessful, giving them proper

concentrate on growing your business.

someone used a generic covering letter,

Your local HR Dept Offices:

tailored to the vacancy may help them

Eastbourne, Brighton and Hove

they apply for.

serena.may@hrdept.co.uk

feedback if you can is helpful e.g. if

advising them to ensure each letter is

to get an interview for the next vacancy

Many SME’s do not have the same

Serena May

01323 403500

resources as their larger competitors.

Chichester, Arun, Worthing, Adur and

recruitment by building your key staff

Sue Beeby

larger companies.

01243 214404

A good HR provider can help with your

Horsham

efficiently, allowing you to keep up with

susan.beeby@hrdept.co.uk

face-to-face interviews. With face-to-

face interviews it is helpful to have more than one person as part of the process

to give a balanced view and help avoid unconscious bias. It also helps where

you may have several strong candidates with different qualities: talking through

the candidates with a colleague can help clarify the decision.

Again, ask the same questions of all

candidates and ensure you record the answers given during the interview: it

is much easier to make a decision later in the day when you have objective

information recorded for each candidate.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

JACK NEEDS

YOU We’re looking for ‘Hero’ businesses from across Sussex to help raise the aspirations of our local next generation. Raise your profile and market your business while helping 1,000’s of young people.

Find out more – visit LoveLocalJobsFoundation.com or email Foundation@lovelocaljobs.com

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Dare to

Dream

Delivered by

SBT

ATUERE P EOP L E MAN AGEM EN T COVER & R ECRFE UITM NT

STORIES

SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS WOMAN TURNS AUTHOR: WE CHAT WITH CARALINE BROWN

HOVE FITNESS AND SQUASH ALL INCLUSIVE FOR EVERYONE

#THATSTHERDSWAY

WITH DAVID DRAKE FROM RETAIL DISTRIBUTION SERVICES (RDS)

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

Successful business woman turns Author: We chat with Caraline Brown SBT Stories

Caraline, tell us a bit

the first online comparison service, the

business career?

many many more.

about you and your I am probably best known in Sussex

first online dvd and delivery service and

Along the way Midnight collected an

as the woman who founded Midnight

array of industry awards, including PR

saw the potential of the internet and we

Best International PR Campaign and

country to specialise in this area. We

CIPR PRIDE’s PR Agency of the Year.

and I’m proud of the many ‘firsts’ we

I’m most proud of the face that so

divorce, the first online comedy club,

have gone on to hold leading roles in

Communications with a £2k overdraft. I

Week’s national Consultancy of the Year,

became the very first PR agency in the

numerous silver and gold awards from

were in the right place at the right time were able to promote – the first online

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

many of the individuals I have trained

national PR agencies and for thirteen

consecutive years a member of my team

was named winner or finalist in the Young Communicator of the Year competition.

Prior to setting up Midnight I was

part of the team that launched mobile

phones to consumers. On my first day at work they gave me three or four

sheets of A4 paper and said I should

choose my own mobile number. I still have the same number.

I got to work with people such as Ruby

SBT STO RI E S

Wax, Joana Lumley, Noel Edmonds and Tony Blackburn. That was fun!

After leading such a successful

business career was it always your plan to start writing?

My entire career has always been

guided by a desire to write but I never really had the chance to write fiction

whilst I was a busy Managing Director.

Once I had sold the business to the

management team I was free to indulge my passion. I feel blessed that I now get to spend my days writing.

When did your passion for writing start?

I won a couple of competitions for my short stories many years ago but my

main ambition in life has been to write a novel.

I think I first got the idea when I was about seven or eight years old and I

managed to fill an entire exercise book with a single story. I was also greatly

encouraged by my next door neighbour (to whom I have dedicated my first

book). She wrote novels such as The

Tell us about the new book?

book called The Georgian Menagerie

the story features Lillian, a freakishly tall

the Brighton Pavilion. I wondered what

because of her size and desire to wear

a place. I also thought it was quite an

Set in late eighteenth-century London,

which coincided with an exhibition in

woman who struggles to fit into society

it might have been like to work in such

trousers. Each morning, she wakes in

unusual setting for a novel.

to the sound of a lion roaring nearby, on

What’s next for Caraline Brown?

the sound and discovers a candlelit

and have an idea for a third. All are

meets the lion, there is an instant bond.

reference characters from each other.

At first, Lillian is repulsed by the

more contemporary.

menagerie, Lillian finds her natural

I would still like to be involved in the

wild animals brought from around the

pass on my skills to new companies

like her. The menagerie, under Lillian’s

or editing projects. I had to learn the

attraction. It is her life’s mission. She

probably experienced most business

minded apprentice. But when her

buying and selling companies to

replacement, upends the order of even

and marketing.

her tiny maid’s room in a too-small bed the Strand. One day she investigates

I’ve almost finished my second book

exotic animal emporium. When she

set around the same time and

stench and squalor, but there, in the home taking care of and befriending

work of business and I’m keen to

world, stolen from their habitats, misfits

and individuals. I often take on writing

management, becomes a successful

hard way as my business grew so I’ve

even marries the veterinarian’s single-

issues in my thirty year career - from

unborn baby dies in an accident, its

recruitment issues, hiring and firing

Lillian’s unusual existence.

Dame Plays Rough, White Curves and

Where did the inspiration for the

under the pseudonym Danny Spade.

By chance I came across a non-fiction

Black Coffee and The Lady says When

Then I plan to write something that is

book come from?

So if anyone out there needs a nonexec… do think of me.

Caraline Brown

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

Gyms, swimming pools and other indoor sports facilities have been hit particularly hard during the coronavirus pandemic this year, having to close their doors for a number of months, so you may think it’s a surprising time to start out in the leisure sector at the moment. Luckily, three sports and fitness enthusiasts have been prepared to take on all the challenges and uncertainties coronavirus might throw at them in order to open a brand new club in the heart of Hove.

Hove Fitness & Squash is on the former site of Coral Health and Fitness and has retained several of Coral’s popular instructors and so far welcomed back many of its loyal customers. However, the new club is far more than just a change of name, with the addition of exciting new classes, a new café and coffee bar, new membership deals and easier booking, as well as a fresh new look. The club is also really keen to make sure both old and new customers feel really welcome, with something to offer for everybody, as the three club Directors, Ben Hutton, Lucy Egan and Matt Lambert, are keen to explain.

“While we’ve been extremely pleased to welcome back many of the club’s previous members,” says Matt, who has over 20 years’ experience as a personal trainer “our ambition with the brand new club is to create a truly community-focused and inclusive environment where absolutely everyone is welcome, not matter what your age or previous gym, fitness class or squash experience is.”

That community spirit was evident during this summer, as Ben, Lucy and Matt had help from many keen volunteers, who worked hard with them to renovate and launch the club in a relatively short amount of time. “It was amazing to see just how much support and enthusiasm there was from the local community,” Lucy, who manages the fitness class programme, says.

The team have listened to what prospective members said they wanted from a fitness club and introduced earlier opening hours, the opportunity to try out new classes as ‘pop-ups’ and great coffee, courtesy of Trading Post Coffee Roasters. And of course, they are making sure that the club is completely Covid-safe. “Our members’ safety is our top priority,” says Lucy. “We’ve introduced one-way systems, made sure there’s plenty of space in gyms and classes and everything is cleaned several times a day. We’re doing everything we can to make sure everyone can exercise safely at Hove Fitness & Squash.”

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Covid-19 precautions, such as spaced-out court bookings and, again, lots of regular cleaning, are also keeping the squash and racketball players safe at the new club.

Squash was a major part of the former Coral club, enjoyed by club players of all levels, while also establishing a nationally recognised centre of excellence for junior squash. Ben Hutton, who had been Head Coach at the old club since 2006, was really keen not to lose either the facilities or the successful squash programme that helped nurture fantastic young players such as his own daughter, Jazz Hutton (current PSA World ranked No.46), Franklyn Smith (ranked No.1 National U17) and Jonah Bryant (ranked No.1 National U15).

“When the old club closed earlier this year, it was a blow to hundreds of supportive members, as well as former staff like myself, Matt and Lucy. But it’s great that, with a dedicated and passionate new management and volunteer team, we’ve been able to establish an inclusive and community-based club for people of all ages, who want to come and enjoy sports and fitness together, as well as continuing to develop squash talent from a young age.”

Working hard together in challenging times, Ben, Lucy and Matt have created a thriving fitness hub, where everybody can enjoy the exercises they love in an inclusive gym and club environment, as well as being able to socialise – safely – in the well-stocked bar and café.

There is ample free parking, plus classes and activities not offered elsewhere, such as Latin Funky Fitness, Kettlebells and Ripped HiiT. There are a range of membership plans to suit everyone with Adult Gold Gym membership – including unlimited gym access plus unlimited free fitness classes – for only £42.50, and Adult Gold Squash membership – including free daily court bookings and unlimited gym access – for only £49.50.

You can find out more about joining Hove Fitness & Squash or sign up today at hovefitnessandsquash.com.

INTERESTED? WE ARE HERE TO HELP 01273 207447 membership@hovefitnessandsquash.com hovefitnessandsquash.com Orchard Road, Hove, East Sussex. BN3 7BG

L I FE STYLE

ALL INCLUSIVE

EVERYONE IS WELCOME JOIN NOW WITH A RANGE OF ALL INCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIPS TO SUIT EVERYONE hovefitnessandsquash.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

#thatstheRDSway David Drake set up his own business two weeks before the first lockdown in March. Foolhardy? You’d think so. But against the odds, Retail Distribution Services (RDS) has thrived.

Why? Well it might

SBT Stories

have something

to do with David’s

wealth of experience, which includes

heading up retail sales at one of the UK’s leading courier companies,

where his happy clients included

Adidas, ASOS, John Lewis and O2.

But if you were to ask one of David’s many customers now, it’s far more likely that the answer would have

something to do with the huge amount of effort RDS puts in to helping small local businesses.

Or as he puts it: “SMEs, who are

often independent retailers, have to compete in the same space as the retail giants. To level that playing

field, we provide UK overnight and international courier services at a

consolidated price, which you will never find by going directly to the

couriers themselves. We’re proudly

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

giving small businesses a fighting chance, which this year is more important than ever.”

day’ parcel rate with any other carrier –

and less than a Royal Mail small parcel.

“But more important than the very low

Thanks to this ethos, (which has come

price,” says David, “is the fact that this

and the boom in online sales brought

businesses to support one another.”

has gone from strength to strength in

“That’s why we’ve chosen to offer

to be known as ‘#thatstheRDSway’),

about by the pandemic, the company

service is an opportunity for two local

its first six months of operations.

this premium service at a significantly

“But we are still very mindful of just how

Brighton & Hove businesses in these

discounted rate, to help our fellow

challenging times are, especially for the

extremely challenging times. Because

independent retailers,” says David.

that is The RDS Way.”

With that in mind, RDS has extended

For more information on RDS or the

& Hove Same Day Delivery service,

service, search #thatstheRDSway or visit

its offering by launching the Brighton

Brighton & Hove Same Day Delivery

“to help smaller businesses and

www.retaildistributionservices.com

community and hopefully stay afloat,

David Drake

retailers continue to serve their local despite their shops being closed.”

Priced at a flat rate of just £4 (+VAT) per item, the pioneering new local delivery service is less expensive than a ‘next

david@retaildistributionservices.com

SBT LIFESTYLE

BLANCH HOUSE REVIEW

BY VISITBRIGHTON.COM

BOLNEY WINE ESTATE REVIEW

BY SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

Blanch House review

The hotel industry have been knocked sideways by the coronavirus restrictions and Blanch House is leading the way in demonstrating resilience and true British spirit in adapting and re-thinking their business to maintain their top reputation amongst the Brighton elite.

In my view, Blanch

Lifestyle

House is Brighton’s

best original boutique hotel. The hotel has

juxtaposed style and modernity with the luxurious feeling that only comes from a grade II listed building in a historical Georgian town house. The fact that

the location is so close to the centre

of Brighton is such a massive bonus

that this is fast becoming my all-time

favourite hotel. Situated in a quiet street, it has all the benefits of a city break

yet with the intimate feel of a Cotswold country cottage.

I have reviewed this hotel before and

was interested to see if and how they were able to manage the changes

required of them in the current climate.

56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

I was blown away to observe that not only have they managed to achieve a safe, clean, carefully regulated hotel,

but that this has not in any way affected the quality of service and attention to detail to deliver a high end, decadent experience like no other.

I visit many hotels as part of my

reviews but I find myself comparing even the largest, seemingly highest

rated hotels in Sussex with this one, and they consistently fail to meet

Blanch House’s high standards. It is hard to articulate just how they

manage to present rooms with a warm home from home feel, balanced with modern state of the art décor which

would sit proudly on any influencers’ Instagram feed.

I visited with my partner and I arrived

exhausted and ready for a rest. Whilst I

have high standards, I would not expect

a hotel to bear the brunt of changing my entire mood overnight. But it genuinely,

almost immediately, felt like I had arrived home, and someone had given me a

warm loving hug and a hot chocolate. In this case it was cleverly disguised as a

glass of champagne which we enjoyed at the Champagne and Cocktail bar downstairs before we settled in.

We were placed in the Legacia Room,

coincidentally perfectly chosen for a lover of Art Deco like me. The finer details

found in the lamps, pillows and even the

excellently chosen old wardrobe were just magnificent. It is obvious that the interior design is carefully thought through

L I FE STYLE

and flows logically and consistently

throughout the room. I was delighted to discover a side-view of the sea, a truly welcome surprise.

The room also delivered on every other

level. Wi-fi, flat screen TV, teas and coffees and even a hand made selection of fresh shortbread suggested that the owners

think of everything their customers might need or want to enjoy their stay.

The bathroom was another realm to

discover with a huge roll top bath and

modern waterfall shower, both of which I

had the luxury of using whilst I was there.

There were complimentary Aromatherapy Associates toiletries to use, as well

as warm fresh towels and soft fluffy

bathrobes. All of these combined were so welcome and a fantastic way to unwind

and relax into the huge crisp-sheeted bed for a most excellent night’s sleep.

To get up to a delicious continental

breakfast with amazing fresh coffee in a

large breakfast room was just divine and finished off what was a perfect, much needed break.

The breakfast room, named the Belle Epoque Suite doubles as a business

conference room and the hotel are still safely managing to run small wedding

ceremonies in a true testament to their spirit and their resolve to “keep calm and carry on.”

True credit must be paid to the owners of this fine establishment who are a beacon of hope for all of us during these difficult times. I am sure that

hotels in Brighton have struggled during this time if they are not able to ensure

guests feel safe and cared for. Blanch

House staff, in my observations, provide meticulous attention to detail when it

comes to cleanliness and maintaining a COVID secure environment. The

trick seems to me, which other hotels

overwhelmingly fail at, is to provide this, yet still maintain a homely, welcoming atmosphere. Blanch House is leading the way in setting a path for us all to follow in returning to a new normal.

It is clear to me in these trying times,

and through Blanch House’s example,

that despite the cold, clinical, inflexible

procedures we all have to follow, there is still room to show care and compassion for each other. Blanch House has that

in abundance which is why it is my top recommendation for Brighton hotels.

Relax in style and enjoy the exclusive Blanch House experience. Whether it is for business or pleasure, we believe that nothing is too much trouble for our guests. Visit www.blanchhouse.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

Bolney Wine Estate review

This month has seen widespread change in the hospitality industry, with many companies forced to adapt their business models to suit up to date lockdown measures and social distancing rules.

One such company

Lifestyle

is the Bolney Wine

Estate, although we

were extremely lucky to

have been invited during the “in between” period in October. We were able to attend in person and it almost felt, dare I say,

normal. We opted for the Ultimate Food and Wine Tasting with Tour and it was a most decadent, luxurious affair.

Given the huge acres of vineyards it

was easy to maintain a distance and

enjoy a leisurely stroll where we were almost able to forget the constant

reminders of the rules. It was an exquisite afternoon packed with mouth-watering deliciousness, and an impressive

presentation of historical facts regarding

the vineyard and general wine production at large. The Estate itself, started in 1972,

demonstrates respect and understanding

58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

of the roots and growth of the vines, and

the knowledgeable staff obviously care for and offer the best possible conditions for the most fruitful vines. In consequence,

they are able to offer the most delicious array of local wines I have ever tasted.

The Tour itself was truly informative,

and a fantastic opportunity to learn the background of the vineyard itself, its

growth and commitment as a business, and indeed just how reliant the wine

industry is on our own unstable weather

conditions. For that alone, the vineyard is

a shining example of how to learn to adapt

your business when events outside of your

things don’t go our way. The opportunity to walk in and around the picturesque

vines, and to venture inside the cutting-

edge winery provides opportunity for some great networking opportunities in a refined, elegant environment.

Following the tour, and for us the major highlight, was the tutored tasting of

the wine itself. Each of the five wines we tasted were complemented by a generous sample of local cheeses.

The wines and pairs were:

• Pinot Noir 2018, matched with Sussex Brie.

control change, in this case, as often as the

• Pinot Gris 2018 with Sussex Cheddar.

bad weather years is breathtaking and we

Blue Cheese. A most excellent pairing

weather. The resilience demonstrated in

would all do well to consider the abilities of the wine industry itself as examples

of how to re-think and strategize when

•L ychgate Red 2018 matched with Bulcan and probably my personal favourite.

• Blanc De Blancs 2016 matched with smoked trout.

L I FE STYLE

• Eighteen Acre Rose (sparkling)

We visited the shop after which may have

• Bolney Estate Gin.

was the lazy liquid lunch or the dazzling

mixed with Sister Sarah Goats Cheese

been a financial error. I am not sure if it

array of delicious treats but we managed

Genuinely delightful, each of the

to stock up on some incredible Christmas

knowledgeably, creating a true symphony

shopping which will see us through

tastings were generous and selected

gifts and indulge in even more personal

of tastes which made us determined to

lockdown 2 and Christmas combined.

home. The corporate businesses using

In true Bolney Estate style, the owners

do well to warn their clients to keep

include Virtual Tours which are a must

spending needed in the shop afterwards!

alternative Christmas events. You will

and not too heavy after such a liquid effort.

product range. The wine, any additional

to buy a glass or two of the wine of your

pack will be sent to you in advance.

indeed. The staff were friendly and polite

product tasting with your household

allowing us to order from our table bottles

virtual tasting event to rival any office

purchase many pairings to replicate at

this as a networking opportunity would

have adapted their wine tours to now

some pocket money aside for the likely

for any company looking for safe

Finally the two course lunch was divine

certainly not be disappointed with the

A delicious mezze board and the chance

products you order and the tasting

choice, amounted to a fine afternoon

You can then log in to a virtual wine and

and maintained a relaxed atmosphere,

and get to take part in an online

(or indeed crates) to take away with us.

Christmas party.

I would also personally recommend the hampers which are truly the

most indulgent, decadent hampers I have ever seen. Tailored for specific recipients, such as Gin Lovers or

Charcuterie Hampers, there are also

some Christmas hampers which would be fantastic as a corporate gift in lieu of an office party, or just to graze on

as a final goodbye to 2020 for you and your family.

The tour was thoroughly magical and I wish the Bolney Estate all the best

in having them up and running again soon. In the meantime though, this

company is truly a yardstick for Sussex businesses in how to adapt to maintain steady spending, seemingly without any compromise on quality. I would thoroughly recommend making the

Bolney Wine Estate tour or products part of your 2020 Christmas plans.

Pioneers of English wine. Located in the heart of rural Sussex, Bolney Wine Estate is one of the oldest and most beautiful vineyards in England. Visit www.bolneywineestate.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

Corporate Gifting Here at Bolney Wine Estate we offer a full corporate gifting service designed just for you.

We work with businesses to create meaningful gifts that build relationships, engage clients and staff to create memorable moments.

Find out more at bolneywineestate.com

60 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT MOTORING NEWS

HOW THE UK’S EV KNOWLEDGE HASN’T CHANGED IN 5 YEARS WE GIVE YOU THE INFORMATION YOU NEED

WHAT’S THE LATEST ON ‘ROAD TO ZERO’

AND THE GOVERNMENT GOING GREEN?

SBT MOTORING NEWS SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 61

How the UK’s EV knowledge hasn’t changed in 5 years As the UK

Motoring

government is set to end new petrol and

diesel sales by 2030, the switch to electric

vehicles (EVs) is getting closer. But so far in 2020, petrol and diesel cars account for three quarters of registrations,

suggesting the UK isn’t ready to make the change to EVs.

We asked 1,000 Brits to tell us how they really feel about electric cars and found that UK drivers won’t switch because

Top findings

• 2 in 5 say that petrol and diesel cars

why they wouldn’t switch to an EV.

are cheaper to run than EVs

But these supposed disadvantages

UK charging points – there are

suggest that EVs are misunderstood, or

• 64% think we have fewer than 20,000 actually 34,000

aren’t necessarily true. Our findings

drivers aren’t up to date with how they’ve

• Only 3% know how long an EV battery

changed over the past few years.

• 2 in 5 believe the range of electric cars

Expensive upfront EV costs only

• Regional data shows Leeds,

Most drivers (37%) think an EV is too

lasts for – 85% think it’s a lot less than it is hasn’t improved over the last 5 years

affect 1 in 10 drivers

Manchester and Bristol have the most

expensive to buy. It’s true – most electric

negative view of EVs

cars are pricier than combustion engine vehicles when paying upfront. But

statistics show that 90% of new cars

they think EVs are expensive, limited on

Read More: Hybrid or Electric -

But is that true? Our data also reveals

UK drivers won’t switch to EVs because

cost only affects 1 in 10 drivers who

of cost, charging access and poor range.

purchase their vehicle outright.

What’s putting the UK off electric cars?

Electric cars have been shown to be

charge points and have a poor range.

that many drivers don’t think EVs have

changed over the past 5 years. See the

results below as we challenge common misconceptions about electric cars.

62 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

What’s Best For Me?

We asked 1,000 British drivers to tell us

are financed, so the expensive initial

cheaper to run, as the monthly costs

MOTO RI NG are less than the equivalent petrol

only 10,000 charge points – that’s how

another reason why 1 in 10 UK drivers

average of £107 per year.

true, it would equal just 1 charge point for

to be another misconception. Our results

than tripled this number of charge points in

that an electric car battery needs to be

version, which could save you an

many we had back in 2015. If that was

(9%) won’t drive an EV, but this seems

every 16 cars. In fact, the UK has more

show that a huge 85% in total think

the past 5 years.

replaced between 3 and 10 years. In

EVs are a lot cheaper to run, believing that

Just 7% of drivers know how many charge

only 3% of drivers are aware of.

than electric. According to EDF Energy,

limited charging access isn’t a problem

The average UK motorist drives 7,400

2 in 5 say that petrol and diesel cars are cheaper to run than EVs

Shockingly, 2 in 5 drivers aren’t aware that petrol or diesel cars are cheaper to fuel

it would cost £10 per 100 miles to fill up

a petrol car. However, it would only be £4 per 100 miles for an electric alternative, making it a much cheaper option.

Read More: What to Consider When Switching to an Electric Vehicle

64% think we have fewer than 20,000 UK charging points – there are actually 34,000 As 1 in 5 (18%) say they wouldn’t drive

an EV because there are limited charge

points we have in the UK, suggesting that and is actually a misconception.

miles a year and an electric car battery

2 in 5 believe the range of electric cars

it would take around 14 years before

Poor range is the third top reason why

vehicles are only on the roads for 8

hasn’t improved over the last 5 years Brits won’t drive an EV (15%), but range

anxiety isn’t as serious as you might think.

The average car journey in the UK is 8.4

miles long, which is covered by even the smallest EVs. Plus, there are over 30,000 charge points if you ever need to top up.

points, we wanted to know if this was

Today, the average range of a battery

a total of 64% believe there are fewer

miles. Our survey shows that 2 in 5

just a misunderstanding. It turns out that than 20,000 UK charge points, when there are actually 34,000.

That’s the equivalent of drivers thinking that there is 1 charge point for every 8

electric cars. In truth, there is actually 1

electric vehicle (BEV) is around 200

drivers (37%) believe that the average

BEV can only go between 50-149 miles on a single charge. That would be true – if we were talking about the average BEV range from 5 years ago.

charge point for every 5 electric cars, so

Only 3% know how long an EV

What’s more, 1 in 3 (29%) drivers’

less than it is

you’re much less likely to share.

perceptions are wrong, believing we have

truth, it’s closer to every 14 years, which

battery lasts for – 85% think it’s a lot Perceived poor battery longevity is

generally lasts for 100,000 miles, so needing a replacement. Plus, many years, so you might never need to replace an EV battery.

1 in 10 feels limited by EV manufacturers – but there are 40 to choose from

Another 1 in 10 drivers (9%) believe that there is a limited choice of EV

manufacturers available. However, 40

manufacturers are currently producing electric cars, including well-known

brands like Tesla, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Ford and Volkswagen.

Regional data shows Leeds,

Manchester and Bristol have the most negative EV view

We investigated the sentiment of 1,237

Tweets recorded from January to October 2020 to find out what the UK really thinks

about electric cars. Our Twitter data shows that most of the UK (45%) does have a

positive attitude towards EVs, but 1 in 4 (24%) disapprove.

Looking at the top 15 cities, Liverpool

is the biggest EV fan, with 68% feeling

optimistic about electric cars. However,

there are cities which have a more negative outlook. 1 in 3 drivers in many locations

aren’t as enthusiastic about electric cars,

with Leeds (35%) coming out as the most negative city, followed by Manchester (34%) and Bristol (33%).

Learn more about switching to an EV or see our electric car lease deals available now.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 63

MOTO RI N G

What’s the latest on ‘Road to Zero’ and the Government going green?

‘Road to Zero’ is a government Motoring document outlining the long-term strategy to reduce road transport emissions to zero by 2040, whilst also reducing emissions throughout that transition period.

The government appears keen to reduce emissions and also keen to allow the UK economy to take advantage of the commercial opportunities that energy transitions will bring (for example, their aims to become a world-leading exporter of British wind-generated power).

The government will use targeted grants and subsidies to encourage the consumer to buy zero-emissions vehicles (and to encourage continued research and development in the sector), alongside quotas for zero-emission vehicle purchasing for local and central government fleets of cars, and finally financial incentives. Financial incentives will likely include better tax rates for the lowest emitting vehicles and more punitive fiscal measures to punish vehicles with higher emissions levels.

Check out the range of low-emissions and electric cars offered by Rivervale to understand the range and diversity of lowemissions vehicles already on the market.

Government promises to curb emissions In the Chancellor’s Autumn 2018 Budget, he announced that, if a no-deal Brexit occurred, the UK would introduce its own carbon emissions tax. The BEIS (The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy) has just announced the long-term UK plans for a new emissions trading scheme (ETS) and for carbon pricing, starting from January 2021. UK Carbon Tax is offered

64 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

as an alternative if a no-deal Brexit happens. They will likely have slightly different impacts on both the driver and the companies and businesses who will have to abide by the new regulations.

Read More: Car Charging From Homes - Government Strategy What would a UK ETS look like?

To replace the EU’s ETS, the UK will establish its own scheme. Starting in January 2021, the first phase will run to 2030. This goes hand-in-hand with the government’s aim to hit net zero emissions by 2050, fulfilling the aims of the Paris Agreement.

If the UK can’t draw up its own ETS, a carbon emissions tax has been suggested as an alternative, so businesses and industries likely to be affected, like car manufacturers, need to be prepared for both of these outcomes.

What would a UK ETS entail?

The ETS works by setting a cap on the amount of greenhouse gas that can be emitted by energy-intensive industries like oil, aviation and power and heat generation. The cap comes down over time so that the total emissions from each sector continue to fall. Using a ‘cap and trade’ principle, the cap works on a sector as a whole, so companies are able to trade emission allowances at auction. The cap reduction provokes market scarcity - setting a higher carbon price, which should encourage businesses and companies to transfer to zero-carbon methods of manufacture.

The first phase of the UK’s ETS could operate alone or be linked with the EU

(allowing UK operators access to the EU’s carbon market), depending on negotiations. The initial cap will be set at 5% less than what the EU’s sETS cap would have been for the UK. Reducing annually, it will remain 5% less than the UK’s notional EU share would’ve been.

Airlines too will fit in the programme - counting domestic flights, flights between the UK and Gibraltar and flights from the UK to countries in the EEA. Read More: Switching to an Electric Vehicle The Alternative: a UK Tax on Carbon Emissions In the event of no-deal, the UK is likely to introduce its own carbon emissions tax instead. This would apply from January 2021, if implemented.

The reality, as a car user ‘The Road to Zero’ initiative should make owning electric vehicles, and low emitters, a preference for us all. There will be financial incentives for businesses who want to offer charge points, and “smart” charge points will likely be enforced to help us all charge up and be on our way swiftly.

If you’re interested in switching to an electric vehicle, or want to enquire about another car or van, give our expert team a call on 01273 433480, or request a callback at a time that suits you.

SBT NETWORKING & EVENTS

HOW TO NETWORK ONLINE MOST EFFECTIVELY

BY NETWORK MY CLUB FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR, BRADLEY HATCHETT

CHRISTMAS MOST CERTAINLY ISN’T CANCELLED!

BY YBRIGHTON

THE POSSIBILITIES OF VIRTUAL BUSINESS

SBT SPEAKS TO OWNER OF MONK MARKETING AND ORGANISER OF B2B EXPOS, MIKE MONK

SBT NETWORKING & EVENTS SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 65

N ETWORK I N G & E V E N TS

How to network online most effectively Finding yourself attending more online networking events?

Network My Club Founder & Managing Director, Bradley Hatchett explains how you can get the most out of each online networking event and make it an effective use of your time…

Like face to face

Networking & Events

networking, there are many things you can do to prepare and make networking

online more effective for you. Also, like face-to-face networking events, our advice to members is very similar.

We threw ourselves into adapting to

hosting online networking events from

the outset of lockdown. We’ve learned a lot. Improved significantly. Seen

the good and bad when it comes to approaching them.

I’m here to help you avoid the bad. By

reading this you’re already ahead of the

game. So, here are my tips on how to get the most out of your online networking:

66 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Arrive prepared

find out more information and follow

Much like face-to-face networking

up more personally.

and after is arguably more important

Connect up with other attendees –

events. The value in what you do before than actually turning up.

a good networking event organiser (us)

What can you do to prepare in

do this the day prior. Research that list.

advance?

Be on time – if the organiser doesn’t

will share a delegate list in advance. We Add people on LinkedIn. Let them know you’re going to be there. You can even

send out a reminder or calendar request,

use it as a chance to arrange a time to

attendees to arrive 5-10 minutes before

is our recommendation; a Facebook

make a reminder yourself. We encourage

meet on a table in the event. LinkedIn

our online meetups and encourage you

friend request might be a bit strong…

to make this a habit.

Pen and paper at the ready – unlike

Become familiar with the software and functionality

at a usual networking event, you

We use innovative online networking

group and take notes on interesting or

other software and programmes

can have an online conversation in a

software REMO. But there are many

relevant parts where you could help,

emerging and being used.

N ET WOR K I N G & E V E NTS

and reduces the chance of picking up background noise.

Opportunity to learn

Approach online networking events

(and any event) as an opportunity to fine tune your business pitch. Your personal introduction. Make it as clear and concise as possible.

With glaring eyes on you, you’ll quickly establish who is engaged and who is

not. Do this in your preparation, but if

it doesn’t go exactly how you wanted,

review it, learn from it and improve it for next time.

If the organiser doesn’t (we do) send

out a pre-meetup email in advance to

help you prepare and ensure you’re set up correctly, take the time yourself to understand how it works.

This will save you time and the

inconvenience of trying to work it out at the start of the event. Your fellow

attendees will be very appreciative too.

Be present

Turn off notifications on phone and

laptop. Or even better, put your phone away somewhere.

Allow yourself to be fully focused

throughout the entirety. You may think that you can multitask, but it certainly doesn’t look it.

Book the time out in your diary like any other networking event or meeting.

Avoid distractions and optimise your

(and other attendees’) time taken to be an active and engaged part of the call.

Opportunity to learn

Approach online networking events

(and any event) as an opportunity to fine tune your business pitch. Your personal introduction. Make it as clear and concise as possible.

With glaring eyes on you, you’ll quickly establish who is engaged and who is

not. Do this in your preparation, but if

it doesn’t go exactly how you wanted, review it, learn from it and improve it for next time.

Use the networking event to learn about others. Find out something interesting

about them and their businesses. When you next meet in person, you’ll be able to refer to these times having built a better understanding and personal relationship with someone.

Environment & technology set up

Set yourself up in a quiet room or area.

Use the networking event to learn about others. Find out something interesting

about them and their businesses. When you next meet in person, you’ll be able to refer to these times having built a better understanding and personal relationship with someone.

Have these questions up your sleeve

Conversation starters when networking online are more difficult to come by compared to a face-to-face event.

Put these tips into action. Join us at an upcoming online meetup or become a

part of the Network My Club family. Find out more by visiting our website www.networkmyclub.co.uk.

This not only helps avoiding any

distractions and remaining present at the event, but is also courteous to other attendees not having to hear background noise.

Position your device in an area with good lighting with your camera at eye level if you can. Rather than having it look up your nose!

We also recommend, where

possible, to use headphones

with microphone to ensure best

Bradley Hatchett

quality sound. This avoids an echo

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 67

T H I N K TAN K

Christmas most certainly isn’t cancelled!

Networking & Events

Virtual Venue

‘Tis the season to be

Themed digital hub and experience

jolly and spend quality time with your people.

Festive celebrations may look a little

different this year, but with YBrighton, Christmas isn’t cancelled! Our elves

have been busy creating a variety of ways to bring festive cheer to your

team. We’ve carefully designed various different concepts to bring your team

together to celebrate Christmas in our

new, ever-changing climate. From festive experience packs to socially distanced socials – we’ve got you covered.

Christmas Cause Box

Get creative with your rewards this year!

68 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Send your people a selection of

festive gifts, activities and treats from

If you were really hoping to get the

independents in personalised,

don’t despair, you still can – virtually!

some of Brighton’s best

branded Christmas boxes which are

sure to get them into the festive spirit!

Go one step further by donating food and gift hampers to families in need over the Christmas period.

team together for a good old jolly

We’ve created an interactive scene for your audience to explore, with

various hotspots and link through to their very own virtual activity. Level

up the whole experience by including

T H I N K TA N K

headboards so a child can wake up in their own bed on Christmas morning.

Socially Distanced Socials

Real life COVID-19 safe experiences If you thought a physical celebration

was off the table, think again! Reward the team and welcome their families

with a private drive-in Christmas movie experience. Guests will arrive in their cars and park up for the evening to enjoy a screening of a Christmas

classic. Tucking into wood-fired pizza and delicious mulled ‘mocktails’

delivered right to their car door! Why a video message from the CEO, or

host a virtual happy hour experience

for the whole team to enjoy together!

Our digital elves can do it all, so get working on that wish list!

comfort of your people’s own homes,

utilising our fireside virtual venue whilst enjoying mulled wine & mince pies!

Gift of Giving

Support the community or those in

Experience Party Packs

need this Christmas by taking part in

sensory Christmas Experience Pack.

Giving back to our communities has

Pair the virtual activity with a multiEat, drink, and be merry together!

We’ve created this concept to enhance the theme of your virtual activity with elements which evoke the comfort

and fun of Christmas. The experience begins by setting the scene with

creative comms and registration, your

© Copyright 2020 people will thenYellow receiveFish a doorstep delivery direct from Santa’s sleigh.

virtual volunteering.

never been more important, we’ve

selected our favourite projects which

enable your people to give something back virtually this festive season.

not enhance the experience further

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www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 69

N ETWORK I N G & E V E N TS

The Possibilities of Virtual Business

SBT speaks to owner of Monk Marketing and organiser of B2B Expos, Mike Monk about the impact of Covid-19 on the events industry and how businesses can continue to gain from virtual expos during this difficult time

Networking & Events

Thanks for chatting

year and I noticed

you tell us about

really dropped off

to us, Mike. Can

the B2B Expos you have been running

for the past 3 years?

that sales had

in my promotional

merchandise business, Monk Marketing. I

I have been running the B2B Expos

decided to pivot and

launch in October 2016, so this year

more online in the

The Expo itself has grown year on year

things. I have actually

because I saw a gap in the market that

expo – the Sussex

– Brighton Business Expo – since the

I’m now doing a lot

would have been our fifth anniversary.

merchandise side of

and the reason I chose to launch it was

also launched a virtual

suggested a good business-to-business

Virtual Expo.

needed. I’m very happy that I did it but

How did the Sussex

because with Covid-19 coming along

and what is next for

I’m hopeful that it is going to happen

B2B Expos?

year it has grown and this year, had it

five weeks go and it was very well

stands and probably over 700 people

had around 15 exhibitors for the very

we’ll be able to get back on track!

can run a virtual expo possibly every

Covid-19 has had a huge impact on

event each year. I think this is going

exhibition in the Brighton area was really

Mike Monk

of course I’m disappointed this year

Virtual Expo work

I was unable to put the exhibition on.

Virtual Expos and

again in June or July next year. Each

I ran the Sussex Virtual Expo about

happened, it would have seen over 100

received. It saw good numbers and we

through the door. Hopefully next year

first one online. My hope now is that I

many businesses, but especially the

events industry. Can you tell us about how you have pivoted and why you launched the Sussex Virtual Expo?

quarter, while still running the live

to be the way of the future now and

we’re going to see both virtual and live events happening in the same period.

Covid-19 has had a big impact on my

How do you see the future of virtual

everything went so quiet from the end

I feel the future of virtual expos and live

going to be holding my exhibition this

have to think about how we do things and

businesses. It was quite alarming how

events?

of March onwards. I could see I wasn’t

events is still good, albeit we will of course

70 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

showcase them on the right platform. I

run the Sussex Virtual Expo on the REMO platform, which works extremely well for

a virtual exhibition. With regards to having

live events, I think there will be restrictions following on from Covid-19, including of

course social distancing and many general safety measures put in place. It is likely we will have to limit numbers coming in and have one-way systems around the hall.

Having said all of this, I still think we can hold the events and I am optimistic they

can be successful – we just have to adjust to the new normal.

SBT ASK THE EXPERT

THREE AT THREE

WITH EMMA, JAMES & LISA

CUBE CORNER: OCTOBER 20

BY PAUL ROGERS

SBT ASK THE EXPERT SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 71

AS K T H E E X PE RT

Emma Mills-Sheffield Mindsetup Ltd T: 07775 947 818 E: emma@mindsetup.co.uk

James Dempster, Managing Director Cobb Digital T: 01273 208 913 E: James@cobbdigital.com

Lisa Seymour, Managing Director Made By Spoken T: 01273 964044 E: lisa@madebyspoken.co.uk

Ask the expert Ask the expert

As 2020 draws to

a close, it’s fair to

say it wouldn’t make most of our “Now

that’s what I call a

year” playlists. It’s been difficult to

not wish it away, thinking that 2021

will bring better times, but we’ve been thinking about that over the last few

weeks and have changed our mindset.

Firstly, it’s likely that 2021 isn’t

going to start off as strong as we’d like it to, so realistically is it going

to be that much better than 2020?

Slightly depressing, but it’s unlikely to dramatically improve. This leads onto my second point, and a positive one.

We live too much in the future or the past and not enough in the present.

We can’t control next year, we can’t control the year that’s gone, but we can control our output for today.

One of the things that I’ve learnt over

72 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the years is that intent has more of an impact on how an action lands than

the action itself. If I offer to give help

but it’s clear that I’m only doing so to enable me to call on a favour in the

future, the impact is far less than just

offering help because a fellow human is in need and I can help. It’s not

exactly Plato, but I’ve been surprised

how a small shift in mindset can make a seismic change in effectiveness.

We’re all selfish, it’s impossible not to be. Every time you react, you’re reacting based on all of the life

experience that’s brought you to that moment. That’s ok, though. It just

means that where possible you need to think about the intent driving your

reaction. If someone comes to you for advice and then you react based on

the most advantageous outcome for you, this is selfish. If you react and

the outcome might not be the best for

you, but is for the person that reached

out for help, this is better for everyone.

It all starts with kindness.

Be kind to each other. That kindness needs to start with self-love though.

It’s ok to watch four hours of historical drama when you’re feeling low. It’s ok to eat two 12 inch pizzas. It’s ok to

wear a fleece onesie. These are not

sentences I would have typed in 2019,

but all of those things make me happy.

Perhaps I can cut down to one pizza, but the onesie stays. Once you’ve

started being kind to yourself, you’ll be more in tune with what other people

need. Yes, this might be a little fluffy

for some, but whether it’s a business community or a friendship circle,

aren’t we all looking for connections

and support? There’s a reason Homo Sapiens thrived, and it’s not that we were stronger and faster than our

competitors. It’s that we can create

community at will. Now is the time to support each other, be kind to each

ASK T H E E XPE RT

other and try to read a stroppy email or text from the recipients view. Do

you need to make that person’s day

worse or can you just stop, take five and send later? I know this sounds preachy, but it’s only because I’ve

done it so often and learnt the hard

way. I also know that I’ll do it again,

because it’s so hard not to. I will reach out and apologise, though.

Your team, your clients and your

prospects will pick up on the intent

behind your messaging more than you realise, so whilst it might sound like Brighton lefty nonsense, it will have an impact on your bottom line. I’ve

mentioned during our sessions that I’ve offered clients and prospects a

walk instead of a Zoom call. When

In our last few Three At Three

the difference in conversation. I was

focusing on providing support to each

with most pitches now coming via

all had crappy moments over this year,

to feature-led selling. “If you click on

take something positive from it. The

leads.” Yawn. But, ask a local prospect

time are so much stronger than at any

beach, a stroll across the Downs or a

that you were there for them, truly

it’s not raining I’ve been amazed at

sessions, Emma, Lisa and I have been

taught that telling isn’t selling and

other and the wider community. We’ve

Zoom, I’ve seen a lot of people revert

there’s no way round it, but let’s try to

that button, you’ll get 1 million more

bonds that have been forged over this

if they’d like to go for a walk on the

other period. People will remember

meander through town and you’ll be

there and that’s enough sometimes.

the first person that’s asked them that,

Email james@cobbdigital.com to

is so much more meaningful than the

They’re every other Wednesday, last

amazed at the results. Firstly, you’ll be secondly, the conversation you’ll have

join our next Three At Three session.

ones we have through our monitors.

an hour and add value to your day.

Plus you’ll be losing weight and filling

your lungs with our Sussex air. Win-win.

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www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 73

C U B E C ORN E R

Cube Corner - October 20 Welcome to this month’s Cube Corner. Is it just me or is this year just flying by?

With all the challenges

Cube Corner

across the business world, the months

are racing past. It has been an interesting

month catching up with my clients,

many of whom are still working on a hybrid of home and office schedule,

which certainly doesn’t look like it will change in the immediate future.

I am sure I am not the only one - I have a perfectly fine home set up - but I

miss the daily interaction of colleagues at the various companies I work with.

Luckily I have a hot desk availability with Vince and the team at Rivervale, which helps as I am in there 2 or 3 times a

week. I would be interested to see how

and then back in for a drink and prize

current arrangements.

of new contacts in a really relaxed

Thank you to Bud Johnston at Rivervale

of course. I would highly recommend

other solo workers are coping with their

giving. It has also produced a number environment, perfectly hosted by Sam

for the invite to the Search 7 Golf Day

getting involved for the next events.

were 19 teams in action during the day

It was great to catch up with a few

rain. Congrats to Gavin Willis for hosting

trip down to Eastbourne Borough

temporarily taken the place of the usual

and Manager, Danny Bloor. It was

generated a number of conversations

of the challenges they currently

been following up on since.

Priory Lane due to Elite level status

Sam Thomas has also been running

Commercial Revenue, whilst still

been a really fun event to be involved

The club were hopeful of government

afternoon hosted up at The Dyke Golf

was delighted to also meet up again

players playing two singles matches

understand a little more of the remit of

up at Mid Sussex Golf Club. There

in challenging conditions of horizontal

football people this month. I had a

such a great event. Golf seems to have

FC to meet with CEO, John Bonnar

networking meetings and this one

really interesting to hear of some

with various companies, which I have

face with no crowds allowed in at

and very little income in the way of

a midweek golf league, which has

having a players wage bill to cover.

with. 12 businesses on a Thursday

funding to assist with the shortfall. I

Club. It’s a great format of 9 holes, 4

with Ken Benham at Sussex FA and to

74 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the SCFA and the challenges they are facing, as well as overseeing football, coaching and child protection at all levels across Sussex.

With another lockdown now in progress it looks like another month of online

meetings. Rivervale have had to close the showroom to retail customers but continue to operate remotely for the

sales team and it is business as usual in the service and MOT Centre. The

team have adapted to a contactless arrangement with collections and

deliveries for customers to ensure they can continue with ‘normal’ service.

I hope you all have a productive month and stay well during the next few

weeks. Hopefully we can all get back

together and network safely in the not too distant future.

Paul

MCR Media Ltd produces digital large format graphics, exhibition printing, signage, vehicle graphics, small format digital and litho printing, branded merchandising using sustainable materials and processes. Whatever aspects of brand awareness you need, we can help with design all the way through to delivery or installation, on time and at the most economical price.

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