SBT issue 448

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SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

WE CHAT TO FOUNDER OF BRITTON & TIME, PAUL BRITTON BRAND NEW ‘GOOD BUSINESS’ SECTION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE GOOD BUSINESS CLUB BRAND NEW SBT SPORTS SECTION INSIDE www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 1

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SBTWelcome

W E LCO M E

Welcome to the latest, packed issue of SBT

This month we had great pleasure in catching up with the founder of Britton & Time Solicitors, Paul Britton. I also had the

privilege of having Paul as a guest on the County Business TALKS podcast, a truly great leader, solicitor, entrepreneur, and businessperson, you can see why Britton & Time has grown so rapidly in the past 18 months and will continue to do so.

We also are extremely excited this month to launch our new Sports Section, written by our new sports editor and member of the team Laurence Elphick. Plus, as you know County Business Clubs core values stems from our collaboration over competition ethos and this month, I am delighted to announce our partnership with the Good Business Club, as we launch our ‘Good

Business’ Section and hear from the brilliant Sara Osterholzer. We have more articles in our new, popular SBT Audio format to listen to on the go.

As always, this issue is packed with insights, advice and great content across a variety of sectors, written by the Sussex business community for the Sussex business community.

Thank you all as always for your continued support and I hope you enjoy the issue, Sam Thomas, Managing Director

VALUE ADDED PARTNERS

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3

FRIDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER 2021 Friends of Arundel Castle Cricket Club Arundel Park, Arundel, West Sussex, BN8 9LH www.cricketatarundelcastle.co.uk

CHARITY CRICKET ‘PAIRS’ T20 MATCH In aid of the Table Talk Foundation Raising funds and awareness for a fantastic new Charity, Table Talk Foundation, Preston Insurance Brokers are giving you the chance to play on the hallowed turf at Arundel Castle Cricket Club. The most picturesque Cricket Club in Sussex with its magnificent ground in the heart of the West Sussex countryside has hosted first class cricket matches and a number of well known celebrity teams.

Table Talk Foundation - Purpose Give grants to primary schools in Sussex to fund the Adopt a School programme, delivering high quality food education directly to the children of our community.

Give grants to Hospitality Action, providing financial assistance and a range of support services to people within the hospitality industry who have found themselves in difficulty or crisis.

You can secure one of the 20 places to play for just £250, with 100% of all the entry fees going to the Table Talk Foundation.

Entry is open to cricketers of all standards and genders, 15 years of age upwards.

All players will be required to wear appropriate safety equipment!

For more details, sponsorship opportunities and to register your interest in taking part please email

Noel Preston at noel@prestonib.co.uk and secure your place.

4 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Issue 448

Cover 448

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

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 ©

07 13 17 21 27 33 39 45 49 53 57 61 65 71 77 83 87

Monthly News

A round up of News and good news stories from across the County

SBT Finance

How responsible investing could create a better world – By Zack Raven, McMillan Wealth Management

SBT Legal

A stitch in time – keep your advisors in the loop, Mayo Wynne Baxter

SBT Property

Hamlyn Smith – the making of a brand

SBT Cover Feature

We chat to the founder of Britton & Time, Paul Britton

SBT Start Ups & Entrepreneurs

Starting up? Do your research first! By BIPC | Bare Cacao – Feel good Naturally

SBT Good Business

How Innovation is heling to cut and fight climate change | Demystifying what it means to be a ‘Good Busines’, By Sara Osterholzer

SBT Sales & Marketing

5 Steps to the New Normal of Selling | What do rugby and sales have in common?

SBT People Management & Recruitment

‘Fire & Rehire’ practices under fire – what do Sussex employers nned to know about workers rights?

SBT Tech

5 Tips for Small Businesses and Start-ups, By Psydro

SBT Charity

Help us empower more children to save lives | Superhero IDrop raises over £16k

SBT Motor News

The Newest car Technology in 2021, Rivervale

Chamber News

We hear from Sussex Chamber – Brighton Brighton– Worthing & Adur Chamber

SBT Networking & Events

Table Talk Foundation launches | Best of British Members Club | Business Networking returns to the Amex Stadium

SBT Sport

Laurence Elphick Asks – A round up of – Football – Cricket and Rugby from across the County and much more…

SBT Lifestyle

Engage for Success with MIT Ventures | Wine of the Month

SBT Ask the Expert

Raising your professional profile, by Stephanie Prior | ‘I get to’ not ‘I’ve got to’ by James Lambert

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 5

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT MONTHLY NEWS

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 7

MO NT H LY N E WS

Recognised businesses from the Top 50 Fastest Growing Companies in Sussex and other business leaders and guests

Top 50 Fastest-Growing Businesses in Sussex receive accolades

Brighton & Gatwick based business specialist law firm, Acumen Business Law, hosted the first of their award luncheons for the Top 50 Fastest-Growing Businesses in Sussex on Friday at the private dining room of the Ginger Pig in Hove St in Hove.

Acumen Business

Monthly News

Law launched the

Top 50 initiative to

identify and provide recognition to

local businesses for their outstanding

growth year on year and celebrate their successes after one of the toughest years in the business world.

Penina Shepherd, Founder & CEO

of Acumen Business Law, said: “It

was so great to see all these smiling celebrating faces around the tables.

After a whirlwind year, it was a true

celebration of positivity, tenacity and

just a great informal Friday afternoon with like-minded business people.

Hopefully, there will be more such

positive events to come in all other

aspects of our lives, both personally and in the world of business”.

8 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Among the Top 50 participants

on the day were; Paul Cooper

of Clearstone

Business Services Ltd, Daniel

Blackham of Gbvi

Ltd, Chris Chadwick of Goodman

Lantern Limited, Ryan Zhu of

Houseen, Simon

Guests enjoying a luncheon at the Ginger Pig Private Dining Room

Fabb of Lease

Group Limited, Natalie Thomas of

Minton Young Limited, Steven Farrell

of Nio Comm Ltd, Matthew Freeman of

Numbers Studio Limited, Paul Mcmath of Prosper Home Loans Limited, Tom

Jackson of Ramjam Limited, Terry King of TNK Engineering Ltd and Daragh King of Tuff-Trek Ltd.

You can follow Acumen Business Law on social media and keep up to date with the latest news and initiatives.

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

MON T H LY N E WS

Brighton Gin releases Pride 2021 Rainbow Fund limited edition bottles

Multi-award winning craft distillery Brighton Gin has announced their latest Artist’s Edition Pride limited release. Every year the distillery collaborates with an LGBTQ+ artist to not only platform their work, but to raise money for the Brighton Rainbow Fund.

They are delighted to announce that 2021’s Monthly collaboration is with News the Brighton-based multidisciplinary artist and LGBTQIA activist Fox Fisher. For this year’s release, Fox has chosen to make four separate but themed artworks, inspired by and celebrating queer lives hidden from history. Released as an initial run of 4 x 100 bottles in each design and individually signed and numbered by the artist, every one is a unique artwork in miniature.

sexuality and for me, Brighton has been the perfect place for this. There’s something special about this evolving city, and I wanted to pay homage to the queer people who lived and loved before me, during Regency times.”

Fox (he/they) says, “Brighton is a place I navigated to, as a place where I could truly be myself. Being able to explore myself through many incarnations, from being young queer working in the bars and clubs, to a drag king packing and posing, to a trans activist co-founding Trans Pride has been quite the journey. I’m proud of this city, which has been transitioning too.

Through their Community Spirit initiative, Brighton Gin has supported many hundreds of community organisations and charities across the city and beyond, and has donated thousands of bottles of hand sanitiser throughout the Covid pandemic.

Kathy Caton, founder of Brighton Gin, said “with so many of the fundraising events that would usually support the Rainbow Fund having been cancelled, we’re really pleased to release this limited edition to support them. We’re long-standing

It’s important for people to have the space to explore their gender and

Every year since 2016, Brighton Gin has released a limited edition Pride bottle to not only celebrate Brighton Pride but also to support the work of The Rainbow Fund, the Brighton and Hove based grant-giving hub for local grassroots LGBT and HIV/AIDS organisations.

admirers of Fox’s work as an artist and as a campaigner and it is a dream to be working with them!”

Chris Gull, chair of the Rainbow Fund, says, “thank you so much Brighton Gin for raising funds, yet again, with these beautiful limited edition Pride bottles.

All the money raised will be distributed as grants to the local LGBTQ+ and HIV projects that we support. It’s a tough year for all of them, trying to continue to support hundreds of LGBTQ+ people in Brighton & Hove between them who require their vital front line services”.

The Brighton Gin Pride 2021 Rainbow Fund Edition bottles can be bought directly from brightongin.com and from independent stockists Quaff and Good News. Recognising what a challenging year it will be for raising funds, 9% from each bottle will be donated to the Rainbow Fund (to match Brighton Gin’s 9th birthday this year). www.brightongin.com

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MO NT H LY N E WS

Eastbourne Car Auctions hit the fast lane after Covid revamp

Car-lovers have come out of Covid lockdown firing on all cylinders and taken the fast lane to trade in their cars for newer models or search for bargains at Eastbourne Car Auctions.

Business has been

Monthly News

brisk, as car owners are now able to

attend auctions in

person and feel the

excitement of bidding for the car of their dreams.

It is great news for Eastbourne Car

Auctions, who celebrated 50 years in business just as lockdown seized-up crucial parts of the UK economy.

“The Covid pandemic turned lives upside down and threatened the viability of key

elements of the motor industry,” explained

Jon Mitchell, owner and managing director

of the auction house. “Car auction centres, which relied on the general public and car

traders turning up in large numbers, stood on the brink of a catastrophe.

“We took the opportunity to explore

10 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the online possibilities and re-position ourselves as THE place for the widest

choice of cars online and the best deals available. It paid off.”

The online auctions allowed the car

professionals to continue buying and

selling, but the ending of lockdown has

seen a pent-up rush from consumers to trade-in their old cars and head to the auctions to spot a bargain.

“It’s been great to see people turning up again,” Jon said. “The online auctions

proved a big hit with our trade dealers, but our general customers love being

able to come in and see the cars before they bid for them.”

The swift actions of Jon and his team over the 14 months of isolation has

meant that Eastbourne Car Auctions is

now in a great place to meet the growing

consumer demand, while offering

traders a wide range of new services.

Jon has set up nearly 1,000 new

accounts with used car dealers and

signed “disposal” deals with some of

the larger dealers. This means that the

choice of cars coming up for auction is larger than ever.

“We now take used cars from Caffyns, the Eastbourne Motoring Centre, St Leonards Motors and many other

dealers, so our customers get the top pick of the cars, Jon added.

“We feared the worst when Covid struck, but we have actually come out of it a

leaner, fitter and even more customerfocused business,” Jon said. “We’ve added a significant number of new

services to our portfolio and I am delighted with how we are currently trading.”

MON T H LY N E WS

Sackville Road: Demolition begins and local artists called

Moda is working with

Monthly News

construction company

Midgard to deliver 564 high-quality build to rent homes, turning

a rundown trading estate next to Hove

Station into a thriving inter-generational neighbourhood with extensive public

gardens. The masterplan also includes 260 care community homes.

The development is based on an intergenerational approach and

will appeal to both small and large

households of individuals - or families - as well as older members of the

community. The proposals also include communal lounges, private dining

areas, cafes, shops and 50,000 sq

ft of office and co-working space to foster emerging businesses/SMEs,

five communal roof terraces and open spaces - all designed to enhance community living.

Moda Living do not charge deposits

from would-be residents, do not levy

service charges and the monthly rental

includes an extensive range of amenities including access to the gym, internet and reduced electricity costs.

see their art featured in a prime position and showcase their talent.

“We’re really looking forward to seeing

Moda is also appealing for local artists

what local artists come up with to bring

artwork for an exterior wall at the site

history and culture.”

to express an interest in producing which overlooks Sackville Road.

James Blakey, Planning Director at

the wall to life and connect it with Hove’s

Approximately 70 per cent of the site will include new streets, squares, amenity

Moda said: ”Now that our regeneration

and open spaces.

planning consent, we’re happy to

It will create the equivalent of more than

Monday 12 July.

time equivalent construction jobs, with

“We expect demolition to take around

from the local area.

very excited to see this project get

Artists who would like to express their

much needed high quality rental

site should contact: moda@midnight.

of the Sackville Road site has received

announce that demolition will begin on

three months to complete. We’re

560 full time jobs and more than 150 full many people working on the site coming

underway and look forward to delivering

interest in a commission for the Moda

accommodation for the city, together

co.uk by Friday 30 July. A brief for the

with care home units and much more.

artworks is available on request.

“Moda is here to stay, so we want to

For more information, please visit:

support it. As a result, we are keen to

brighton-hove

be part of our local community and to

https://modaliving.com/live/location/

hear from local artists who would like to

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Probate fees set to rise despite continued delays, warn Kreston Reeves The Government has announced a consultation that will see probate fees increase despite continued and often significant delays caused by mistakes made by the Probate Registry, warns accountants, legal, business and financial advisers Kreston Reeves.

The Ministry of

Monthly News

Justice proposes to

increase probate fees

from £155 for probate professionals and

£215 for individuals to a flat rate of £273 for all applicants.

Simon Levine, a solicitor and Director of Legal Services at Kreston Reeves

comments. “The Government has said that it costs HM Courts & Tribunals Service more to process probate

applications than it receives in fees,

resulting in taxpayers subsidising the processing of probate applications.

The increased fee is expected to raise between £23million and £25million

each year from 2022. Estates worth less than £5,000 will continue to attract no fee.

HM Courts & Tribunals Service has recently introduced a new online

portal for probate applications, with

this portal now compulsory for almost all probate applications lodged by

probate professionals. However, HM

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Courts & Tribunals Service still requires

complex estates, we have waited for

signed legal statement to be sent to

through. Before the online portal

the original will and a copy of the

up to six months for probate to come

them by post.

was introduced, probate was usually

There have been many complaints

submitting an application.

problems with the new portal. It

“The increase in fees is much less

Tribunals Service, which can take

and then scrapped before the 2019

increasingly difficult to speak to staff at

have resulted in fees of up to £6,000

by probate professionals about the

granted within two or three weeks of

requires a code from HM Courts &

than the increase proposed in 2018

up to 30 minutes to arrive, and it is

General Election. That increase would

the Probate Registry.

for a grant of probate which caused

The Government has closed many of the

that the proposed increase will cause

staff are often not as knowledgeable

maximum proposed increase is £118.”

to be. There have been many reported

The consultation closes on 23

mislaid or grants of probate containing

introduce the new fee early in 2022.

they have had to be returned which can

following link - https://www.gov.uk/

local Probate Registry offices and their about probate matters as they used

significant opposition. It is unlikely as much opposition given that the

instances of probate applications being

September 2021 and it is proposed to

mistakes in their wording, meaning that

The consultation can be found via the

result in significant delays.

government/consultations/aligning-

Simple probate applications are

cost-recovery.

but if inheritance tax is due or on

www.krestonreeves.com

currently taking around eight weeks

the-fees-for-grants-of-probate-to-

SBT FINANCE

HOW RESPONSIBLE INVESTING COULD CREATE A BETTER WORLD

BY MCMILLANC ONSULTANTS

SBT FINANCE SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

FI NAN C E

How responsible investing could create a better world

When Sir David Attenborough returned to our screens last year with A Life on Our Planet – his witness statement to the world – he stressed the way we collectively invest our pensions is “jeopardising the future that we are saving for”.

2020 was one of

Finance

the warmest years on record, and his words only

strengthen the view

that money needs to both earn a

return and be a force for good. The

investment industry is listening, and progress is gradually being made.

Companies are also starting to

wake up to the idea that they may

have a better chance of long-term

success and profitability if they adopt sustainable business practices.

Responsible investing isn’t just about the environment, of course. The

COVID-19 crisis has turned our attention towards corporate behaviours – both good and bad – and helped illustrate why successful businesses are often

those that care about their people, their supply chains and their community.

A re-examination of our relationship with the planet and society is a reason why

more of us are allocating our savings to

Whether ESG funds will outperform

funds that look at ESG (environmental,

debated. Nevertheless, several studies

investment processes. A recent survey

ESG management tend to be more

38% of total UK assets integrate ESG

also better prepared for sudden crises

26% in 2019*.

sustainable governance approach.

sustainable investments and choosing

over the next 10 or 20 years is hotly

social and governance) factors in their

show that companies with good

by The Investment Association found

profitable over the long-term. They are

into the investment process, up from

than companies that do not follow a

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Of course, many people will be just as

interested in the non-financial benefits that responsible investing can deliver.

Research from Nordea shows that our

savings can have 27 times more impact on our personal carbon footprint when

invested sustainably than other reduction activities like flying less, eating less red meat and shortening our showers.

FI NA NCE What is ESG?

ESG refers to Environmental, Social,

and Governance factors. This is a term used synonymously with Responsible Investing and relates to the additional

factors that are assessed and analysed alongside traditional company analysis before making investment decisions.

Responsible investing in practice The Principles for Responsible

Investment (PRI) is a global leader in promoting standards of responsible

investment, supported by the United Nations. The group encourages

asset owners and managers to use responsible investment to better

manage risks and seek opportunities, in the pursuit of long-term value in sustainable markets.

As a topic, responsible investing is very

varied and constantly evolving but is the

means that fund managers can assess a company’s attitude to different factors, and whether they will be positioned

• climate change is a huge factor for the energy industry

• cyber security for the payments industry • labour rights and supply chain

management for the fashion industry

to perform financially in future. As

Investors increasingly seek information

to buy, hold or sell an asset our fund

investing, with growing awareness of the

examples, when deciding whether

about sustainability and responsible

managers will consider:

broader long-term aspects of successful

• i f the company is positioning itself

and effective investing.

to address the issues of climate

The value of an investment with St.

energy efficiency.

to the performance of the funds you

change, waste management and

• I s the company addressing any

James’s Place will be directly linked

views of the community it impacts?

To receive a complimentary guide

of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’

and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms

used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

* Investment Management in the UK 2019–2020, The Investment Association

www.mcmillanconsultants.co.uk

planning or Inheritance Tax planning,

contact Zack Raven at McMillan Wealth

wide variety of views ahead of making

email zack.raven@sjpp.co.uk.

important decisions?

products and services, more details

covering wealth management, retirement

levels of executive pay, does it report transparently, and does it listen to a

the Group’s wealth management

down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

• I s the business paying excessive

the purpose of advising solely on

select and the value can therefore go

issues in its supply chain, treating its workforce fairly and considering the

Financial Conduct Authority) for

Consultants Ltd, on 07581 348894 or

McMillan Wealth Consultants Limited

The factors relevant to each business

is an Appointed Representative of

and geographical location of the fund

Place Wealth Management plc (which

will vary according to the asset type

and represents only St. James’s

manager. For instance:

is authorised and regulated by the

Zack Raven

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

ADVISORY / TA X / AU D I T

New look, same great service

Building a Brighter Future An accountant should do a lot more than just report on how your business is doing. They should help you identify opportunities to improve your profit levels and then support you in trying to achieve those improvements. We strive to understand what our clients want to achieve and are then proactive in recommending solutions that add value.

We take a collaborative approach with our clients, working with them to provide a valueadded service rather than simple compliance. The focus is always on client service, with open and honest relationships.

Contact us E: info@carpenterbox.com in

www.carpenterbox.com 16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT

LEGA L

LEGAL

A STITCH IN TIME - KEEP YOUR ADVISORS IN THE LOOP

BY MAYO WYNNE BAXTER

SBT LEGAL SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

A stitch in time – keep your advisors in the loop

By Simon Baillie-Hamilton, Partner

Solicitors have long been the butt of jokes about sharks and charging for every minute of their day, but we have our place along with other professional advisers!

Set out below are

Legal

some examples of where early

discussion with

advisors can prevent

problems and avoid unnecessary

expense and delay with proposed projects or transactions: 1. Licences/Tenancies

Many sites are shared between owner and third parties. The owner may be

relaxed about this and say, “Don’t worry,

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

I’ll set up a simple licence agreement

and I can give them one month’s notice

to leave”. Any written agreement can be irrelevant; if the occupant has exclusive possession of an area and pays a rent

then they will be a tenant meaning they may have rights of security under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Advice - Before letting third parties use part of a site, talk to your

solicitor. Setting up a proper tenancy agreement to avoid the rights of

security under the 1954 Act can be simple, inexpensive, and very cost effective in the long run.

2. Business Restructures or sales

For any business restructure, consider tax implications, bank borrowing,

property issues including possible

Stamp Duty charges, and employees and their employment rights. Not an exhaustive list but all areas needing

careful professional consideration to avoid pitfalls and delays.

LEGA L 4. Informal Arrangements

How often, when reviewing a property for sale, do we find that various third parties have been allowed access and use of parts of the property

for different purposes of their own, business or otherwise, paying a

rent or for free. In a large farm sale where I was involved, the slightly eccentric seller referred to these

as “kindnesses”. It is, of course,

admirable to help others, but to do so informally can have very unintended consequences.

Advice - Before committing to any “kindnesses”, check with either

your solicitor or a surveyor what the implications might be.

5. Commercial Contracts

Beware a commercial contract

which seems too good to be true – it probably is.

Advice – Unless you are certain that

you understand all the implications do not sign contracts put in front of you

without getting them reviewed by your 3. Property Sales and Leases

You may be very confident that you

have a clean title with no potentially problematic restrictive covenants

or third-party rights affecting your

property. It is always worth checking this with your solicitor before the

property is marketed. Where leasing or selling part only of your property, consider at an early-stage issues

such as access and services for the area being sold and the area being

retained. Will the letting or sale prove Simon Baillie-Hamilton

Advice – Set up an early round table meeting with relevant professional

advisors to establish what your aims are and therefore what issues need to be

resolved, how, and by whom. Follow up with appropriate advance action.

potentially disruptive to the retained land and/or business.

Advice -Instruct your agents and

solicitors to collaborate in reviewing

solicitor. If someone is pressing you

to sign up very quickly it is probably because the contract is deliberately disadvantageous for you.

Summary tips

• Take professional advice early • Encourage site meetings

• Set up meetings of all relevant advisers • If you are concerned about

incurring professional fees, talk to your professional advisors about

fee structure and charging methods,

which they should be able to tailor to suit you, your business, and

cash flow.

www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

titles and the practical arrangements on the ground and arrange a site

meeting with your solicitor and agent to discuss these issues.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

Selling, buying or starting a business?

Call us on 0800 84 94 101 Offices across Sussex

www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk 20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT PROPERTY

HAMLYN SMITH - THE MAKING OF A BRAND WITH HAMLYN SMITH AND WHITESPACE

EDWARD STREET QUARTER REACHES HIGHEST POINT

GUESTS TAKE IN VIEWS AT BRIGHTONS NEWEST NEIGHBOURHOOD

SBT PROPERTY SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

Hamlyn Smith - the making of a brand

Whitespace give us an insight into the process behind developing the brand and website for new Estate Agents in town Hamlyn Smith.

Property

The process

excited to delve a little deeper into their

any new brand

how they wanted to set themselves apart

build project, it’s

helping them bring their vision to life, we

When we approach

ideas for their new estate agency and

creation and web

from the rest. We soon realised that by

really important to fully understand what

were going to create something really

the client wants to gain from their new

special for them.

want to convey with their branding.

Firstly we collectively brain stormed

us establish the creative direction and

error, the guys settled on Hamlyn Smith.

bring the whole concept together.

important step to help James with the

When we were first approached by Jerry

it’s associated brand would be the first

their new business venture, we were

to reflect their ethos, personality and

website and also the tone or feel they

Having these initial conversations helps

business names and after lots of trial and

allows us to draw on past experiences to

Having the name pinned down was an

Hamlyn-Eastell and Toby Smith about

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

creative direction as creating the logo and step in the project. The brand needed

aspirations for the future, the results of this stage dictate the style and direction of the web build. James created a mood board

with colour choices, typography and other inspiration which helps to narrow down the end branding style and logo.

A logo forms the cornerstone of the

brand, which will be designed and built around it. We optimise the identity to

resonate with the target demographics and ensure the brand, website and

photography are consistent and have a unified tone of voice.

As with any company, you need the

brand to be trusted and, in time, your

P RO PE RTY

logo well recognised. Jerry and Toby

have solid industry experience along with

has created a professional online

to top notch customer service. You

values. Quality design, considered

your property sale and you may even

experience which reflects their core

would be lucky to have them represent

functionality and attention to detail are

make some long term friends in the

paramount on a site such as this.

process. We know we have.

James follows a four step approach

“As with any company, you need the

Jo Jensen - Account Director,

Research, Design and Refine. The

logo well recognised.”

jo@whitespace.studio

a relatable and down to earth approach and we feel this really comes across in their new website.

when it comes to brand design: Review, review stage allows us to chat through the aspirations for the brand and the

research stage sets the visual direction (there are no good or bad ideas at this

stage). Next is when he transforms those ideas into sketches with 4-6 designs put

forward for review, ending with the client feedback and their chosen concept for final development.

The primary purpose of the Hamlyn

Smith site is to encourage enquiries from potential sellers and of course buyers. The new site successfully

promotes their property portfolio and

brand to be trusted and, in time, your

This project has been particularly fulfilling

Whitespace

01273 258000

as we’ve been able to work with the client

Q&A with Toby and Jerry

more rewarding knowing that we have

What made you decide to launch your

and well rounded brand which will be

very tough year for many businesses?

estate for decades to come. It has been a

gave us time to step back and really

proud to have been a part of.

want to spend our time. We’re incredibly

Toby and Jerry are not only highly

years witnessing the decline in customer

progressive, passionate and dedicated

about opening up on several occasions

at the inception of their brand. It is even

been trusted to help create an impactful

own business during what has been a

synonymous with Brighton and Hove real

Like so many others, the last 18 months

brilliant partnership and a project we are

think about what’s important and how we

knowledgable estate agents, they are

passionate about property and have spent service within agency. We had spoken

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

PRO PE RT Y

before but now seemed like the right time to share our knowledge and experience.

Your company statement is to

provide a progressive, personalised

and passionate service to customers - what sets Hamlyn Smith apart from your competitors?

For too long the traditional estate

agency model has fallen far short of buyers’ and sellers’ expectations.

Quick wins, lazy marketing, lack of local knowledge, and being passed from

pillar to post have done the industry no favours. We do not want to just keep

up to speed, we want to set the pace

on what is expected from our role. We know how moving home can cause

unnecessary stress and anxiety, so it

is our aim to minimise those feelings at

We worked with you to create your

our armoury of tech is the my Hamlyn

website. Did you achieve what you

24/7 access viewing times, feedback,

branding and build your brand new set out to with the end result?

throughout the sales progression

set out to create a brand all the

it feels to be busy, so this platform

quite overwhelming. Fortunately,

clients accurately and efficiently, when

things worked out. When you first

process are complete. We know how

different ideas and opinions can be

allows us to communicate with our

we had James and the team at

it suits them.

off and over time those ideas we’re

What are your goals for the business

weren’t the easiest clients but now we

Our goal is simple…break the mould of

Whitespace to bounce those ideas

developed and refined. I’m certain we

over the next few years?

have a brand we’re extremely proud of

the stereotype our industry is tainted by.

we’ve had since opening has been

www.hamlynsmith.co.uk

and a website to match. The feedback amazing so I can’t recommend these guys enough!

Can you tell me more about the my

to finish. It may seem obvious, but

benefit your vendors?

we believe ensuring the continuity of

contact from initial listing to successful sale greatly increases the chances of a hasslefree experience for our clients.

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

offers and when key milestones

We couldn’t be happier with how

every turn. All instructions are handled by the founding directors from start

Smith portal which gives our clients

Hamlyn Smith feature and how it will One of the key drivers behind our

business model is to embrace the

introduction of new technology and

the best online marketing. Amongst

www.whitespace.studio

P RO PE RTY

Edward Street Quarter reaches highest point Guests take in views at Brighton’s newest neighbourhood Edward Street Quarter

Property

treated guests to

rooftop sea views as Brighton’s newest neighbourhood

celebrated reaching its highest point.

A topping out ceremony was held on top of its tallest building and visitors were

given tours of the development, which will complete early next year.

Edward Street Quarter’s highest point

“We are on track to complete next year

Jay Newman, McLaren’s Managing

local community alike.”

to celebrate the topping out of Edward

and welcome occupiers, visitors and the

Kevin Cooke, Senior Partner at Patron

Capital said: “Reaching topping out is a clearly a significant milestone for what will be a fantastic addition to Brighton City Centre, and we really appreciate

the team effort that has got us to this

point and we look forward to completion being achieved during next year”.

Director, South, said: “We are delighted Street Quarter with customers First

Base and Patron Capital. Linking in

with the local community of Brighton is key for McLaren and we look

forward to playing an important part in the development of a vibrant new neighbourhood in the city. With its

outstanding design, desirable location in the city centre and mix of uses, we

anticipate this flagship development to

is just over 31m, and the six buildings

Daniel Carlisle at Investec Real

hospitality facilities and new homes.

Quarter is an excellent example of the

Edward Street Quarter comprises

we love to support at Investec and we’re

Brighton’s burgeoning digital and

will accommodate offices, retail and

Businesses also had the opportunity to

walk around their future office or leisure space as the countdown to completion next year starts.

Estate commented: “Edward Street

transformational placemaking initiatives delighted to celebrate this important

milestone with the teams at First Base and Patron Capital.”

Steve Eccles, Project Director at First

Stephen Adams, Operations Director

point of Edward Street Quarter is a real

milestone achieved is testament to the

Base, said: “Reaching the highest milestone for the development.

“We were so excited to welcome our

guests for tours of Brighton’s newest neighbourhood and show them the breath-taking views from the top.

“With Grade A office space, new homes, retailers, cafes and leisure facilities,

as well as green spaces and inspiring

public art, Edward Street Quarter is set

to become a destination in its own right.

be a great success.”

125,000 sq ft of flexible space for

creative sectors and wider corporate community, making it the largest

provision of workspace to be delivered in the city since 1993.

at McLaren Construction, said: “This

20,000 sq ft is also set aside for retailers,

hard work of the McLaren team and

available, comprising a mix of private and

our excellent working relationship with our customer First Base and Patron

leisure and hospitality. 168 new homes are affordable units to meet local demand.

Capital. Despite Covid-19 challenges,

The development includes design

over £9 million of benefits to Brighton

wellbeing as well as three public green

our social value plan has implemented in our first year of construction by

focusing on local employment and training. With works continuing on programme, we look forward to

completing what will be a fantastic addition to the city.”

features to boost mental and physical spaces, heavily planted with mature

trees and an edible garden full of herbs.

For more information, please visit http:// edwardstreetquarter.com.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

Digital, design & branding

We are a full service creative agency specialising in design, web and marketing.

Founded by three passionate creatives.

whitespace.studio 4 St. Georges Place, Brighton BN1 4GA 01273 258000 / hello@whitespace.studio 26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT COVER FEATURE

WE TALK TO BRITTON & TIME SOLICITORS WITH FOUNDER PAUL BRITTON

SBT COVER FEATURE SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

We chat with Founder of Britton & Time Solicitors, Paul Britton When people ask me why I got into law, I usually give them two answers: the lawyer’s answer, and then the real one. What’s the difference? None. Not because the answers are the same, but because it really doesn’t matter what the answer is.

What matters in this

Cover Feature

profession is how

persuasive you can

be, how compelling

your story is and how

strongly you can evidence the narrative.

And 9 times out of 10, that’s also the law.

I grew up in the Buckinghamshire countryside. My parents were

entrepreneurs who worked their

way up from juggling 3 jobs each on the breadline to starting their own

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

successful engineering business and

taking an early retirement. As with most

children, I took my childhood for granted at the time, not knowing much beyond my own environment.

To say I was a feral child would

probably be an understatement. I was

the skinny, gobby beanpole who would snap back and give as good as he got, sometimes to my own detriment. But somehow, I could talk my way out of most trouble I attracted.

This got me by and, without knowing, set me up for what life had in store

for me. After finishing college, my first real job was working in telesales at

the Phones International Group, one of Peter Jones’ companies, before

going into more sophisticated sales

roles and finally moving into complex

sales and strategy positions in London at a then FTSE 100 company. The

key thread that ran through each of

these roles? Problem solving. Whether dealing with objections, dithering

COVER FE ATU RE

decision-makers or gaps in business offerings, these issues seemed to

have common-sense solutions – at least from my perspective.

It was only at the age of 25 that the thought of doing something more

challenging struck me. It was either going to be law or medicine and I

didn’t really fancy working in a hospital.

I decided law would be the better

option and would open more doors in business. I was already running rings round people in discussions, so why

not do it professionally I thought? Being a fairly impulsive person, I took no

time in enrolling on a law degree. Work didn’t stop, but I did make the switch to a slightly more relaxed role as a

lifeguard to earn a few extra pounds in between lectures.

I absolutely love swimming and have

done so all my life, but as a lifeguard,

there’s rarely any opportunity to do so and it’s fairly dull. You sit on poolside

waiting for someone to start drowning (which in reality never happens), and

only get up to stretch your legs once in a

while before returning to your chair. But

you do get to chat to the swimmers and, naturally, colleagues from time to time.

Speaking to the children’s swimming

teachers, I learnt they were getting paid more than me for working fewer hours, plus the added benefit that teaching children to swim looked like it was

actually quite fun. I quickly trained up and

completed the ASA teaching qualifications and started to take on swim classes for children from 4 to 15 years old.

Time flew by and, before I knew it, I had left university, finished law school and

was lucky enough to have three training contracts offered to me from past

connections in the city. I took the one offered by a boutique London-based

litigation practice led by an ex-Clifford Chance solicitor.

Perhaps it was the troublemaking in my youth, or something else, but I

just found litigation straightforward.

The rules were clear, and I could be

persuasive while following them, which no doubt stemmed from talking my

way out of trouble in my younger years.

But more so, I had become intelligent in my arguments and was therefore

compelling when I spoke. I could see solutions and the evidence needed

where others couldn’t. And lastly, I could

piece everything together to build a legal

argument to the advantage of my clients, all while repeatedly winning cases.

Despite my newfound profession, I

couldn’t work under someone else for

long. It just wasn’t for me. All I wanted to do was continue to be out of my

comfort zone and seek new challenges whilst creating opportunities, both for myself and others.

Living through my parents’ sacrifices to scale up a business and create

livelihoods for their employees and for our family, I wanted to do the same.

I knew I could offer an experience in

a new firm that others rarely did. One which would address the common

issues clients complain about rather than paying lip service to them. A

firm that centres around maintaining the highest quality of service, with a

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

C OVE R F E AT URE

commercial focus. In 2017 I incorporated Britton and Time Limited, which would be the vehicle for my future law firm.

I’ve always been a firm proponent of building meaningful and lasting

relationships rather than one hit wonders.

One who cares about customers rather

than cashing in on their misfortunes and moving on to the next.

There was just one blocker: the

Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), the body that oversees law firms, requires anyone running a practice to have a

minimum of 3 years’ experience as a

solicitor – experience I didn’t have just yet. But that wasn’t going to stop me.

Instead, I found a firm in Brighton for sale, Martin Ross Solicitors, led by a sole practitioner looking to retire.

To be honest, Brighton was a bit of a

wildcard. As with most people, I’d only ever visited as a tourist to grab some

mini doughnuts and lounge by the sea.

Business-wise, I knew nothing about

the area. I did my homework and saw

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

there was a thriving community of law

firms, which meant one thing: the market for legal services must be sizeable, and therefore so must the opportunity.

After purchasing the practice and jumping through the regulatory

hoops, I was approved by the SRA

for exceptional permission to lead the practice, which then traded as Britton and Time Solicitors.

Fast forward 3 years and we’ve grown to 16 members of staff, with another

4 set to join this month. Brighton is a fantastic city, but it doesn’t have the

natural pull or reputation that London has for people seeking a career in

law. Recruitment and attracting the

best talent aren’t always easy, but we have managed to attract some hard

surrounding areas, and many have

joined as apprentices, who I hope will stay with Britton and Time to develop their careers further.

When recruiting, I look for one thing

above anything else: a traditional hard-

working ethic. If you’re looking for a full hour lunch break and 9 - 5 then that’s not going to work for our clients. Our clients want access to their lawyers when they need them and often at times when we least expect it.

It still shocks me now when I sit down with some clients and ask them why

they chose Britton and Time. A sizeable number say they phoned around 5 or 6

firms locally, and we were the only ones to pick up.

hitters from good city firms which has

The only ones.

haven’t benefited from the same level

What else could these other firms

given us the edge over local firms that of training.

The vast majority of our back of house team come from Brighton and the

possibly be doing? A shopkeeper would

be silly to ignore customers at the till, so

why would we not pick up every call into our business?

COVER FE ATU RE This is why I am so particular when it comes to recruitment. I simply don’t want to employ someone who has

settled into the mindset that clients are an inconvenience, or that doing just

enough to get by is okay. It’s not okay!

Taking on talent in its nascent state

is important and the sooner we get a professional starting on their journey then better it is for the firm and their career in general. Instilling shared

business ideals and showing how they benefit not only the firm but also the

employees and clients is the key to any business’ success.

COVID-19 and lockdown were pivotal for Britton and Time. Back in March 2020, there were just 4 of us and I

remember gathering everyone together in the office the day before lockdown

kicked in. I told them we would be ok,

that we were small enough, and luckily solvent enough that we could weather the storm. I had seen downturns in

the economy before, both in 2002 and 2008. We shut our doors for about a

month, until new guidance came out

that, as a law firm dealing with wills and probate, some of our staff were classed as key workers and allowed to continue operating from the office.

While many businesses were forced to work from home, we were fortunate in that we were one of the few services able to see clients under particular circumstances.

The uncertainty of lockdown also meant that many law firms were sadly letting

go of newly qualified solicitors. As the pandemic loomed outside, inside we invested heavily into recruitment and

doubled down on our online presence. It was a calculated risk, which paid off.

We were able to take on solicitors from

other firms who were fed up with home working and who saw working in the office as an opportunity to partially

return to normality, and we gained a

significant number of clients who were

simply unable to get in touch with their usual law firms.

I know staying open has been a luxury

in the past year and a half, and one for which I’m grateful. However, even in

non-COVID times, I have never been a

fan of home working. When it comes to

the law, there is no better way of learning and training than challenging each other in person. Often, there are times in the

office when we’re debating the best way

forward for a client, and someone comes up with a brilliant solution, then someone else trumps it with a better one. It’s not as dramatic as it is on TV like on Suits,

but by working together, we’re able to do

the best for our clients. More importantly, we all want to do the best by our clients.

It’s more than just a job.

Zoom, Skype and Teams have come a

long way over the last year, but they are nothing new. I was speaking to clients

on Skype in 2005 and even then, it was

no substitute to face to face meetings and still isn’t.

As we’ve eased out of lockdown, what’s struck me most is how businesses have

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

C OVE R F E AT URE

that way, and it’s a lesson I’ve held

out for modernisation and an

such a range of legal services at Britton

and younger audience.

pigeonholed into only doing divorce,

What I really want to do is apply

that doesn’t benefit anyone. I enjoy

applied time and time again and

is to ensure that the business survives

roof. Car dealerships are no longer

always be inevitable. After all, what

loan providers, body shops and, in

housing market crashes?

Supermarkets no longer just sell

But I don’t only think in terms of the

phones and data plans, and insurance.

There are so many other areas or

It’s not going to happen overnight,

or professional services, and which

of determination to achieve, but I feel

agents, financial advisors, mediators,

watch this space.

close to heart. That’s why we offer

and Time. I don’t want the firm to be

Paul Britton

adapted to the challenges it presented.

Some haven’t been able to operate at

all, some were faltering and were dealt a death blow, and others have thrived

through sheer determination and good strategic planning.

My father used to tell me to make the most of the times when business is good, because it won’t always stay

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

approach which can attract a newer

or conveyancing or only wills. In reality,

the same model that has been

variety, but my main reasoning for this

bring these sectors under one

through any hard times, which will

just car dealerships; now they’re

happens to all the conveyancers if the

some cases, merchandise outlets.

law, or indeed of Britton and Time.

groceries; they sell electronics,

‘verticals’ that touch upon the law

and it’s going to take a good amount

work in tandem with us such as estate

like we’ve started on that journey, so

and accountants.

Many of these sectors are booming,

especially in smaller towns and cities, but as with the law, they are plagued with traditional businesses crying

www.brittontime.com

SBT

COVER FE ATU RE

START UPS & ENTRPRENEURES

STARTING UP? DO YOUR RESEARCH FIRST

BY BUSINESS & IP CENTRE SUSSEX

BARE CACAO - FEEL GOOD NATURALLY WITH FOUNDER, AARON NEWLAND

SBT START UPS & ENTRPRENEURES SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

N EW B US I N E S S

Starting up? Do your research first!

Make your idea a reality with industry led data, gathered by experts A common theme we

New Business

hear at the Business

& IP Centre (BIPC) is that the enthusiasm people have for

starting their own business is quickly

dwarfed by two things; during lockdown, it was the problem of developing the

business idea in isolation, with no one

to give unbiased critique and feedback.

The other is the overwhelming list of new skills which seem a requisite of becoming a business owner.

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Write a business plan? Sort out

commercial rent logistics? Health and safety legalities? Somehow develop a

website? Find customers? All the while tiptoeing around the white elephant of intellectual property - what is a

who got in touch with the BIPC in the last couple of months, have lost their

job during COVID and wish to continue their profession, utilising their existing skills, but on their own terms.

trademark anyway?

While others decided that this is the time

No need to panic! Just take a deep breath

long-lived dream of starting a business in a

and let the BIPC give you a helping hand.

Lending a hand

Approximately a third of the people

to gather their courage and realise their

completely different profession or sector.

Either way, our range of free

information resources will greatly

N EW BUS I N E S S

benefit any type of start-ups.

Tell us your story

Our first steps with start-ups is to hear their story - which we love to do - finding out

how they came up with the business idea, why, and what stage it is at the moment.

Whether someone approaches us with a

few notes on a napkin or a full 30-minute presentation with a theme tune, we’re

here to help and support. Some people worry about bringing in a bare bones

idea, apologising that they don’t really

know where to take it next or if it’s even feasible to bring to fruition – but that

spark often leads to fantastic things, with just a little guidance.

This is a great way to start the process as the existing experience, skills and

the needs of the start-ups vary greatly – someone bringing an invention to

patent, so they can license it out needs very different advice and information

from someone dreaming of setting up

their own cat café in the Brighton Laines.

The next step is to then discuss what resources the BIPC have to help

them, what tools will assist them, and

signposting to any contacts who would be able to lead them further in their chosen field.

Business & Industry databases

Our free resources for start-ups include £5 million worth of online business and

industry directories, market reports from top publishers and company data for more than 144 million UK and global companies, that will help them get it

right from the beginning and significantly increase their chance of success.

Our advice is to start with COBRA COBRA

The Complete Online Business

Reference Advisor is a practical and comprehensive resource for anyone wanting to start a business.

It contains over a thousand small

Thinking of setting up as a florist? It

specific reports. It is easy to use and to

are, street by street, plus where the

business factsheets, guides, and sector-

can tell you where the current ones

understand as there is no jargon.

vacant units are so you can decide if

It includes incredibly thorough guides

the busy high street. In addition, LDC

- Pet groomer, anyone? Ice cream

the location you’re looking into –

wealth of legal documents and start-

rates of businesses, how busy the

to focus on a quieter part of town or

on how to start a particular business

gives you amazing statistics about

van driver? Blacksmith? - as well as a

employment rates, opening & closing

up guides.

main shopping areas are.

From how to create a cash flow, a

You can access LDC at Jubilee Library

food safety regulations and how to get

hand to assist you.

information you need on COBRA to turn

These are only two of our ten invaluable

business plan, and marketing plan to

your first employee, you will find all the your idea into a business.

You can access Cobra from home with

in Brighton, where the BIPC team is on

databases that can help you at every stage of your business growth.

a Brighton & Hove Library card or at

Next time: Why should I conduct market

BIPC team is on hand to assist.

And the databases that can help.

Another one of our databases which is

gov.uk/bipc or email bipc@brighton-

Jubilee Library in Brighton, where the

perfect for start-ups is Local Data Online.

research before starting my business?

Find out more at www.brighton-hove. hove.gov.uk

Local Data Online (LDC) For anyone setting up a business which has a public site (shop, café, theatre),

LDC allows you to zoom in on the city/ town/retail park you’re considering for your business and analyse it for you.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

Bare Cacao - Feel good naturally Developed and manufactured in Worthing West Sussex, Bare Cacao is, quite simply as the name suggests, nothing but 100% organic cacao What was once a

New Business

sacred plant drawn

upon for its ritualistic and ceremonial

attributes has since

become a bi-product of the beloved

confectionary bar. Around 80% of the world’s chocolate is predominantly

sourced from the West coast of Africa

and for many years those farming and

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

working have been severely mistreated; with the final products on the shop

shelves made up of mostly sugar, milk powder and vegetable oils, the origins of cacao have been lingering in the background… until now.

Theobroma cacao, an amazing

plant farmed within only 20 degrees north or south of the equator (with

the majority coming from only 10

degrees either side), is once again

gaining the appreciation it deserves.

The word Theobroma derives from Greek “food of the gods” and this

fermented bean was both currency

and food throughout Mesoamerica for thousands of years prior to the first

European settlers arriving. It was here

that it was first discovered and served

N EW BUS I N E S S

as a bitter drink, made with water, and selected spices and herbs.

Today, something that is used in

ceremonies across the globe, there is evidence of cacao consumed in

ceremonial bowls over five thousand years ago deep in the Amazonian

jungles. It is considered that ancient tribes believed cacao to have many

health benefits, especially for the heart

a beautifully designed black and gold

now have a growing retail presence

sources in Peru. The innovation is in the

stockists like Infinity foods in Brighton

pack, with all beans coming from ethical fact its ground and prepared in much the same way as a premium grade coffee

“In the wake of the current pandemic

in the beverage is derived from the way

before, many people are working

Honouring its origins, the core principle in which this drink would have been consumed for thousands of years.

Its founder Aaron Newland created the

part of both wedding and religious

to coffee as an after-midday drink. Or,

ceremonies across the whole region.

Sadly what followed the initial meeting between the Spanish conquistador,

Cortez and the Aztec king Moctezuma in the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan,

(Now Mexico city) in 1519, was mass genocide and death of over twenty

million people with most of the culture and history erased.

Today, this is a history being honoured in the way that it deserves. Developed and manufactured in Worthing West Sussex,

Bare Cacao is, quite simply as the name suggests, nothing but 100% organic

cacao. Roasted ground and packed in

and Rushfields farm shop in Henfield.

and served in a French press (cafetiere).

and connection to mother earth. Historic artifacts depict cacao as a central

in health food and farm shops, with

brand to provide an enjoyable alternative for those looking to cut caffeine out completely for health reasons, with only a trace of caffeine in the drink

(less than in decaf coffee). Improved

sleep, naturally occurring minerals and

antioxidants, plus a reduction in anxiety are some of the many benefits. But,

above all else many of the companies’ regular customers just enjoy the drink

because of the rich, yet refreshing taste.

Aaron has recently undergone a pack change and feels confident to now

approach bigger buyers in both the

UK and around the world. The majority

anxiety and stress is worse than ever

around the clock, and struggling with the challenges of constant changes

in both family and work life demands

with little time for themselves. In short,

we are working longer and harder than ever before. Many of us are reaching for caffeine-based drinks late in the

day. By simply taking a few minutes back each day to stop and breathe,

reset your central nervous system and

build a healthy ritual into your day, with a cup of Bare Cacao, the knock-on

effect on other areas of your life will be

paramount.” Aaron Newland Bare Cacao Readers can use the code freetravel at checkout to save on the P&P for first orders, to try it out for themselves. www.barecacao.co.uk

of sales are currently online via their

website www.barecacao.co.uk, but

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

Are you a growing business in the Sussex area?

If you want to differentiate your products or services, explore new revenue streams or prototype new products – the Inspire programme is for you!

Get access to a fully funded unique innovation programme.

Built from world-leading research – informed and shaped

by SMEs. Identify partners that are the best strategic fit for you and explore new business practices.

INSPIRE APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN NOW Find out more at briteinnovation.co.uk

SUPPORTED BY

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT

COVER FE ATU RE

GOOD BUSINESS

HOW INNOVATION IS HELPING TO CUT CARBON AND FIGHT CLIMATE CHANGE

IN WEST SUSSEX

DEMYSTIFYING WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A ‘GOOD BUSINESS’

BY SARA OSTERHOLZER, THE GOOD BUSINESS CLUB

SBT GOOD BUSINESS SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 39

How innovation is helping to cut carbon and fight climate change in West Sussex Record heatwaves

Good Business

in the US and

devastating floods

across Europe have shed new light on

the urgency of the climate crisis. In

coastal West Sussex, global warming is

predicted to bring more frequent, intense flooding, drought, episodes of extreme heat and stormier conditions, a rise in

sea levels and greater coastal erosion, impacting on habitats. We are already seeing some of these effects today.

Local authorities in the region have declared a climate emergency and pledged to reach net zero carbon

emissions by 2030. The Coastal West Sussex Partnership has prioritised sustainability – and innovative

40 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

schemes are under way to help tackle climate change.

Following a successful campaign for a

byelaw to restrict trawling, with support

from Sir David Attenborough, the Sussex

Kelp Restoration Project has launched to restore almost 200 square kilometres of lost kelp forest along our coast.

Kelp – brown seaweeds which draw down carbon from the atmosphere - once formed a huge underwater

forest along the coastline from Selsey to Shoreham, but since the 1980s

the habitat has been decimated due to trawling, storm damage and the

dumping of sediment by dredging boats.

The Sussex Nearshore Trawling Byelaw means the seabed is now protected

from bottom-towed trawling gear in the new exclusion zone, allowing kelp to

regenerate and ecosystems to recover.

As well as enriching marine life, a

renewed kelp forest could also reduce

the impact of waves on our shorelines.

The University of Brighton is leading research into carbon flows and how

much carbon the kelp could capture, as the water quality and seabed

substrate will define how dense the kelp return will be.

Henri Brocklebank, director of

conservation policy and evidence at

Sussex Wildlife Trust, said: “We have less than four per cent of the original kelp forest remaining – it’s shocking

we’ve lost this incredible ecosystem.

GOOD BUS I N E S S

As part of the group, Shoreham Port

has set out ambitious plans for a green hydrogen hub to provide clean energy to the transport industry, including

lorries, buses, ships and aircraft – some of the highest carbon emitters, which are also critical for the economy. The port plans to develop an operational electrolysis hydrogen plant by 2024.

Wind, solar and hydro power will be converted into renewable hydrogen

through electrolysis – a process which

is almost silent, produces no waste and emits no pollutants.

Global engineering and consultancy firm

Caroline Wood

Ricardo is also investing £2.5 million in a

port is continuously looking at ways to

hydrogen development and test facility

reduce its environmental impact across its

at its Shoreham Technical Centre.

infrastructure and property developments.

Group risk manager Andrew Swayne

He said: “As an EcoPort, we’re

the Greater Brighton pledges on the

the forefront of design for developments.

said the scheme supports several of

committed to putting sustainability at

environment (the GB10), which include

Every new site must follow a template of

commitments to promote clean fuel.

high sustainability standards.

He said: “Ricardo is part of Hydrogen

“At our Maritime House business

coming back.

“The plan is to create a centre of

a water source heat pump for heating

“We know the climate crisis and the

transport engineering, helping the drive

system and saving about 70 tonnes of

Allowing the kelp to regenerate is

and positioning the region and the UK

more biodiversity and bioabundance.

industrial revolution.

involved, but biting the bullet does bring

“Natural restoration of the kelp will be

“But there is still a lot of work to deliver

emissions earlier than expected.”

Sussex, which is really exciting.

centre we’ve invested £0.5 million in

excellence for hydrogen and electrified

and hot water, replacing an oil-fired

ecological crises are inextricably linked.

to become a zero-carbon economy,

carbon every year.

animating the carbon cycle – creating

at the forefront of the global green

“There are significant investments

But the good news is it’s already

economic benefits, and reduces carbon

drawing down carbon for everyone’s

on the GB10 pledges.

habitats.”

“One of the biggest challenges is

Sussex Partnership, said: “We’re really

Another major scheme to combat

is some progress on council housing but

green growth as part of a Greater

Hydrogen Sussex, an energy group

For new builds, we want to adopt energy-

benefit. We all want to see healthy

Caroline Wood, director at Coastal West

decarbonising the built environment. There

proud of our commitment to develop

climate change has been launched by

it needs to be the entire built environment.

Brighton initiative.

working to stimulate the push towards

efficient building regulations.

“We need to look at everything we do

Greater Brighton Economic Board, with

“Who will benefit most? Our grandchildren.

make this region a leader in the fight

members from across business, councils

Post-generational thinking is so important.”

against climate change.”

to put the region at the forefront of the

Director of property and infrastructure

For more information, visit https://

a zero-carbon economy. Led by the

and academia, Hydrogen Sussex aims hydrogen fuel revolution.

at Shoreham Port Tim Hague said the

through the prism of sustainability to

coastalwestsussex.org.uk.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

GOOD B US I N E S S

Demystifying what it means to be a ‘good business’

In a world where sea

Good Business

levels have doubled in the last two decades in comparison to the last century, where it

is estimated that all our fossil fuels will

be depleted by 2060, and about half of humanity is living on less than $5.50 a day, the world needs businesses now

more than ever to look at building better models that positively impact people and the planet.

But from ESG reports to Bcorp

certifications, from flexible working

policies to eco-packaging, it can be

overwhelming to know what to do or where to start, right?

That’s why at The Good Business Club we’ve designed the Good Business

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Framework to demystify what it means

to be a good business and to showcase real-life examples of what organisations are doing to build better businesses.

I believe one of the most powerful tools we have in this space right now is the

experiences from those businesses who have been pioneering and innovating in this space for decades. They have tested out new models and trialed

innovative approaches. The lessons

they have learned can save businesses years of resources, capital, and most

importantly, time when looking at doing business differently.

So let’s start by looking at the Good

Business Framework and then explore existing approaches local businesses in Sussex are already seeing the benefits of.

The Good Business Framework

It’s worth noting that there isn’t a

universal definition for, “impact-driven”, “purpose-led” or “good business”, so at the Club we’ve defined them

as “businesses that have a purpose beyond making a profit. Financial

sustainability is key but not at the cost of people and the planet”.

Is that an easy commitment to live up to?

No way! Every decision is tough. There are extra lenses that business owners

and leaders need to look through and it isn’t as black and white as “what is the cheapest option to the business?”.

So let’s go one step deeper and look at

the six areas a business owner can focus on if they are looking to have a more

positive impact through their business.

GOOD BUS I N E S S

1. Employees

Cobalt Beach streamline business

from business transparency to employee

technology, improving customer service

you of the people who make up your

work with vegan-owned businesses as

From recruitment to fair working policies,

processes with automation and

development, how considerate are

and reducing costs, and they choose to

teams and shaping work that works for

this aligns with the founders values.

everyone, not just the business?

Plus X, an innovation hub in London

Just helpers, an award-winning

and Brighton, drives social impact by

about fair and equal opportunities for

as well as innovation programmes to

cleaning company, are passionate

offering coworking and office space

all, and one way that this comes to life

purpose-led businesses.

the Living Wage.

3. Supply Chain

D&A is an award-winning disabled-

or catering for an event? Have you

students, organisations and social justice

host or your recruitment agency? Are

practice what they preach, with 85% of

with good businesses and creating an

is by paying all their staff at minimum

Where are you sourcing your stationary

led social enterprise which supports

considered the impact of your web

projects to create inclusive cultures. They

you finding and choosing to work

their team self-identifying as disabled

ethical supply chain?

to specialists if you are interested

HISBE is an ethical supermarket

inclusive business.

are proving that supermarkets can

2. Clients and Customers

impacting people and the environment.

or neurodivergent. They are the go in becoming a more diverse and

transforming the food industry. They be sustainable without negatively

Have you considered your policies

As well as many other good business

treating customers fairly, and avoiding

only from suppliers who are either

around working with good businesses,

practices, HISBE chooses to source

working with unethical businesses?

local, ethical, or organic, and unlike

more supermarkets, they pay their suppliers a fair price.

RubyMoon, an ethical swim and gym

wear social enterprise reuses recycled fishing nets from the ocean to create

long-lasting swim and gym wear for the socially conscious swimmers.

4. Products / Services

If you’re creating a product or service, is it having a positive impact in the

world? This could be being certified

fair trade or organic, looking at circular models or supporting people in need, making it more accessible or a more

ethical alternative to other products/ services etc.

MarinaTex is a startup in the R&D

stage, creating an alternative to plastic that’s made from fish guts and other

seafood waste. It is biodegradable and completely organic so not harmful to people, animals or the environment.

Second Shot Coffee is a coffee

social enterprise that trains, employs, and supports people affected by

homelessness. So when you visit

their cafes, you can expect delicious

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

GOOD B US I N E S S target of raising £77,000 for charity.

to bring learnings from the community

6. Environment

Business’ section of this magazine.

Is your business harming

Expect real-life examples in each

carbon footprint, reducing

Good Business Framework in more

encouraging green travel,

practical lessons to help you build a

considered reducing your

edition covering all six areas of the

or recycling materials,

detail and sharing the challenges and

using green energy etc.

better business.

Create.net are a website

Let’s do good business.

squarespace or Wix),

The world of business is changing and

who take sustainability

Sara Osterholzer is leading the charge

by renewable energy and

She believes there’s a different way

with Ecologi to remove the

people and the planet while still being

seriously. They are powered

coffee and food, and also know you’re

contributing to the future of the people working there.

5. Local Communities

Are you doing anything at the moment to work collaboratively with local

organisations or give back to community

initiatives through time, money, skills etc.

The Bevy is a pub that was closed down and then saved by the community,

who now all own a part of the social enterprise. Everything that The

Bevy does is in service of the local

community. Whether that’s hosting

playdates and activities for parents and children or ensuring no elderly member of the community spends Christmas alone, every activity brings the

community together to reduce isolation and increase community cohesion.

Search Seven are an award winning

marketing agency who pledge 7% of their annual profits to charities and

local community projects, and have so far raised over £50,000 in 10 years. To mark our 10th anniversary this year,

they’ve set themselves the ambitious

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

to you through the new ‘Good

the environment? Have you

hosting platform (like

Sara Osterholzer

teamed up with Sussex Business Times

are working in partnership

to do business that positively impacts

carbon footprint they have

profitable and is demystifying what that

created over the last 19 years,

and create a carbon neutral business.

BHESCo are a cooperative leading

looks like to support business owners create sustainable businesses, for themselves and the world.

the transition to clean, affordable,

Sara is a good business specialist and

Solar for Schools project to tackling fuel

co-founder of The Good Business Club.

accessible to their communities.

of leaders looking to redesign the world

At The Good Business Club we know

not banging the drum for purpose-

a given. Figuring it out on your own,

around on her motorbike or breaking

community owned energy. From their

impact-entrepreneur, most recently the

poverty, they are making green energy

She also mentors the next generation of business, for good. When she’s

running a good business is tough, that’s

led business, you can find her touring

that’s a choice. Would you rather waste

the taboo around mental health.

or collaborate with other businesses to

sara@saraosterholzer.com

resources on trying to reinvent the wheel learn from their lessons and co-create

www.saraosterholzer.com

approaches that have a lasting impact?

www.thegoodbusinessclub.com

Businesses across the UK are joining

Twitter: @SaraSophieOst /

business, and problem solve some of

Instagram: @saraosterholzer /

minded business people.

LinkedIn: Sara Osterholzer /

the movement to pledge to do better

@TheGoodBizClub

the most challenging situations with like-

@thegoodbizclub

If you’re looking to create a better

business, one that considers people

and the planet, and you want to learn

from other founders and specialists in this area, watch this space as we’ve

The Good Business Club

SBT SALES & MARKETING

5 STEPS TO THE NEW NORMAL OF SELLING

BY LEARNING COG

WHAT DO RUGY AND SALES HAVE IN COMMON?

BY BEN BENNETT, SCEOND VOICE

SBT SALES & MARKETING SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

5 Steps to the new normal of selling Business is waking up again. For many things have been quite for 18 months and for some lockdown has created new opportunities and they have seen an increase in business.

As life begins to a

Sales & Marketing

new kind of normal, securing sales for

any small, medium

and large business is

still top of the agenda.

However the ‘new normal’ has settled

for you, selling your service or product will need some fresh thinking when it

comes to traditional ways of selling. For some tolerance for being approached

‘cold’ and ‘sold to’ by unknown people from unknown companies who have no idea of their needs and issues is

not welcomed. I would say that most people want anyone selling them

anything to know who they are and what they stand for.

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

So, what do businesses need to

consider, when thinking about their

sales strategies and the best approach to take?

Here are 5 steps to selling in the new commercial landscape.

1. Identify your ‘best’ opportunities.

This is quite a simple step to take but

growth and work consistently towards

achieve this. Coming out of lockdown, if your business has seen a dip and

needs growth, we can often go into

this with a fixed mindset. If the focus is on sales revenue, then we could

become too fixed on doing this at all

costs. Growth mindset will allow us to the best opportunities.

one that is not often thought about.

2. Re-engage and understand the

try and get traction. It is important to

prospects

Some companies cast the net wide to put your effort into the opportunities that will work for you and will prove fruitful for you.

Often, we talk about having a growth

mindset, where you are able to look at

current needs of customers and

Once you’ve understood where to focus your energies, re-engage with those

customers. Ask for feedback – how is

their business? Find out what’s changed and get to know their plans and

strategies to adapt to the new climate.

SAL ES & MARKE TI NG

invest in marketing to enable the sales

your business relevant and keep sales

process to begin.

and cash flowing.

Marketing will allow you to identify

Everything has changed, everything

pipeline. Think closely about what you

same and settling into new ways of

prospects and bring them into your

is different, but then everything is the

are doing to sell yourself before you

working for everyone.

you have a social selling strategy within

Want to know more of what you can

even meet with customers. Ensure that

Your customers have been through

exactly the same as you have and their

ways of working may now be different to what they have been in the past. Don’t

make assumptions that you will return to the same way of working.

3. Be yourself, be human

People buy from people. It is a known fact that when making a decision

between two suppliers the one with

the best relationship wins every time.

And when we say best relationship, we the ones with a human connection. Be genuine contacting customers. Have

a genuine human conversation. Don’t think about ‘selling’ straight away

before you’ve understood needs and established rapport.

4. Invest in Marketing

This is a time when trust and

relationships are important. If you

need to find new customers and build new relationships this is the time to

your marketing effort.

do as a small or medium business to

Social selling is the process of

a look at www.Pitch.Community

sales process. This often takes place

Pitch is more than a product or a

Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest, but

community to support local businesses

Remember point 3 when you do this, be

so that you can really meet your full

developing relationships as part of the

improve your sales skills? Why not take

via social networks such as LinkedIn,

training programme, it’s about building a

can take place either online or offline.

and support you as a business leader,

human, be yourself.

potential and get back in business.

5. Above all, be Agile

The programme is designed for sole

and you need to be able to supply

businesses that find themselves within a

Agility and resilience require strong

exposed to the sales process before.

The current largely remote working

matter experts creating excellent value

to information and ideas from

agency, or an SEO expert. An Architect,

your employees to keep as close

you with the skills and knowledge that

Customers want something different,

traders, start-ups or leaders of small

that to ensure your own success.

sales environment but have never been

relationships externally and internally.

The Pitch Community are great subject

conditions will mean easier access

for your clients. You may be a design

anywhere. Harness the power of all

or a kitchen designer. Pitch will equip

as possible to market trends, your

exceptional salespeople have.

customers, suppliers, prospects,

competitors, and your ecosystem to

enable you to understand how to keep

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

SA L E S & MARK E T I N G

What do Rugby and Sales have in common?

Well, you don’t need 15 players in your sales team, but there are some good lessons to be learned from the way each position plays their part.

It is a huge

Sales & Marketing

misconception that

hiring an experienced sales person will

end your business

development woes. One person isn’t

going to save your bacon, and even if they could, they need lots of support

as well as needing to be able to deliver from a strong foundation (A plan or strategy would be a good start!).

Another misconception is that

experienced sales people are good at all parts of their job.

This couldn’t be further from the truth. I

say this from having (too many) years of experience managing sales teams, but

also looking inward and understanding my own areas of improvement.

The activities required from sales teams range from; market research, lead

generation, copywriting, graphic design, cold outreach, meeting service level

agreements, social media management, proposal and bid writing, negotiation skills, need-finding, analytics,

forecasting, pipeline management, presentation skills and of course,

consistent repetition of all of the above.

And that’s not even an exhaustive list!

So what has this got to do with Rugby?

An experienced and high performing

team of 15 players, each with a specific role and responsibility on the pitch. To

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

do what they are good at

in order to deliver the best possible outcome - lots of points, and a win!

Some are fast, some are

tall, some are strong, some kick well, some pass well.

Each position plays a part in a finely tuned unit.

If we know that model is proven to work in sport,

then why do we insist on

asking our best presenter

to spend time researching

Ben Bennett

prospect information?

Now go and get your best kicker onto

Why are we asking phenomenal

your conversions! ;)

connections each day?

Ben Bennett is Managing Partner of

A well structured sales team will have

Brighton-based company focused on

in the right role, so that the customer

to accelerate growth through sales

teams see the best results.

growth mentor for the NatWest

proposal writers to make 100 calls or

Second Voice (secondvoice.co.uk) a

the right experience and competence

enabling founders of B2B companies

gets the best experience and your sales

and operations. Ben is also a business

We don’t all have the luxury of being

Entrepreneur Accelerator.

able to hire three different roles

If you’re looking to grow your own

thought to the fact that if your best

or support, please reach out to Ben at

into a sales team, but do pay some

company and want impartial advice

appointment booker is spending time

sbt@secondvoice.co.uk

writing proposals, then that means less appointments are being booked.

We want great results, and to get that we need the right people in the right roles, delivering the right activities.

SBT

COVER FE ATU RE

PEOPLE MANAGEMENT & RECRUITMENT

“FIRE & REHIRE” PRACTICES UNDER FIRE

WHAT DO SUSSEX EMPLOYERS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WORKERS’ RIGHTS?

ADASTRA HR BECOMES ACCREDITED DISCORVERY INSIGHTS PRACTITIONER

WITH SUSSEX BASED HR CONSULTANCY, ADASTRA

SBT PEOPLE MANAGEMENT & RECRUITMENT SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

PEOPL E MAN AGE M E NT & H R

“Fire and rehire” practices under fire. What do Sussex employers need to know about workers’ rights?

• Workers’ rights are once again under the spotlight as Acas reports on “fire and rehire” practices.

• Government will not currently legislate against the so called “bully-boy” fire and rehire tactics but is setting up a new workers’ rights watchdog.

• The as yet unnamed watchdog will combine three existing regulatory bodies to crack down on workers’ rights abuses.

Fire and rehire

HR

refers to a practice where employers

having been unable to get agreement

through consultation, terminate the

contracts of employees with a view to immediately offering them a new

contract on less favourable or different terms. With suggestions that the

practice has become more prevalent

during the pandemic, the government

commissioned Acas to prepare a report.

The HR Dept brings local employers up to speed on this and related issues.

Acas’s brief was to complete an

independent fact-finding mission on fire

and rehire, making no recommendations.

They found that while it was not a new practice, it did appear anecdotally to

have become more common in recent years. Triggers include the desire to

avoid or minimise redundancies, and to change terms and conditions.

A recent high-profile example is that of

Clarks shoes who are asking more than 100 warehouse staff to accept a new

contract on reduced terms. The staff are considering strike action.

The business minister has recognised the practice in general as “bully-boy tactics” but indicated the government is not in a rush to legislate specifically against

it. They have, however, asked Acas to

prepare clear guidelines about when fire and rehire may be used.

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

With many businesses forced

to take difficult decisions during

Serena & Sue

the pandemic, it is always best to seek professional

advice when doing something with such far-reaching

consequences for both the business and your staff.

Employers should be aware that the government is

preparing to clamp down on

enforcement in other areas of

workers’ rights, though. Of course, by

far the majority of businesses do want to treat workers respectfully and in

compliance with the law, but there are always a few who will cross the line – whether inadvertently or deliberately.

Going for these, the government

plans to merge three bodies - the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse

Authority, the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate and HM

Revenue & Customs’ national minimum wage enforcement team - into a single

watchdog guarding employment rights.

The new regulatory body’s scope will

include ensuring workers receive holiday and sick pay they are entitled to without resorting to an employment tribunal;

as well as protecting agency workers, enforcing minimum wage compliance and fighting against modern slavery.

While it is not formed yet, one would imagine the new agency will be far

more coordinated across the broad

workers’ rights remit as well as more streamlined. If you are unsure if your

employment practices meet minimum

standards, now would be a good time to get them reviewed.

The HR Dept is now the UK’s largest

network of HR professionals providing outsourced HR support. Our clients

vary, from tiny start-ups to established brands, across all industries.

We pride ourselves on delivering costeffective employment law advice and HR solutions that leave you free to

concentrate on growing your business.

Your local HR Dept Offices:

Eastbourne, Brighton and Hove

Serena May – serena.may@hrdept.co.uk 01323 403500

Chichester, Arun, Worthing, Adur and Horsham

Sue Beeby – susan.beeby@hrdept.co.uk 01243 214404

P EOP L E MAN AGEM E NT & H R

Adastra HR becomes accredited Discovery Insights Practitioner

Sussex-based specialist Human Resources Consultancy, Adastra HR, announces it has become an accredited ‘Insights Partner’ with its service offering “Insights Discovery’.

The service, which

HR

is based on the psychology of

Carl Jung, uses psychometric

tools and a four-colour model to help employers and employees alike by

building essential soft skills. These skills include; collaboration, communication and leveraging collective strength

while also identifying their strengths and weaknesses, communication,

and individual working styles. What is

particularly unique is that this exercise

isn’t just on an individual team member level but also on how all employees fit

together at a business-wide level - and how they can collaborate better as a team! The service provides excellent

insight into where a business’s core skills are and highlights potential skills gaps

within a company to map out each team member’s strengths and weaknesses, skills, personality and preferences.

The service’s main aim is to provide

Alison Daymond, Managing Director of

opportunities to improve their team

great way of helping employees reflect

working from home, or a combination

own personal communication style - as

performance, relationships, and the

values they can bring to the team. This

in today’s climate, with the normal way

communication preferences and how

are adjusting to working in hybrid

home. If employees’ understanding of

making it more critical than ever to stay

communication preferences, strengths,

been successfully rolled out with several

collaboration, communication, and

network across the South East via some

result in a stronger higher performing

sessions have been well received, with

For more information on this service and

above) reporting that there has already

and employees, visit their website at

performance and team re-connection

discovery/ or email advice@adastrahr.

businesses with the tools and

Adastra, said: “Insights Discovery is a

dynamics (whether in the office or

upon themselves and to identify their

of both) to improve employees’

well as recognising the strengths and

overall working environment. Of course,

builds an understanding of each other’s

of working disrupted globally, people

they can work best in the office and at

teams (some even as new starters),

each other improves, by learning their

connected. The service has already

and style of work, the team’s level of

existing clients within the Adastra

productivity will increase. This will only

fun and creative training sessions. All the

team and business as a whole.”

clients (including ClearVision, pictured

how Adastra HR can help your business

been noticeably stronger employee

https://adastrahr.co.uk/insights-

across the company.

co.uk or call 0330 113 0925.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

Race ready?

If you want to compete and win gold, you’ll need an IT strategy that’s in the cloud.

With many people heading back to the office, is your business IT ‘race ready’ so you can properly compete with others in your sector? Or are you getting left behind?

Transform your business with smarter and more economical ways of working through digital transformation solutions. This is all your IT in the Microsoft Cloud, apps and all, with no onsite servers in sight to maintain and update.

It’s faster for remote working, cheaper, more secure and compliant, scalable, always on the latest technology and billed monthly according to what you use. Talk to us directly.

01444 443200

info@extech.co.uk

extechcloud.com

We can take any business with between 5 and 100 active users of IT, into the full Microsoft Cloud platform.

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT

COVER FE ATU RE

TECH

5 TIPS FOR SMALL BUSINESS AND START-UPS

BY PSYDRO

SBT TECH SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

TEC H

5 Tips for Small Businesses and Start-Ups

It’s exciting to start a new business, especially if you have something that consumers will want to purchase.

Unfortunately, it’s

Tech

also true that 90% of start-ups fail,

according to Forbes.

So, how can you be

part of the other 10%? Here are the 5 best tips for small businesses to stay on the success path.

The first thing to do is carry out

research and see what’s already on the market. What are the recent trends?

What market sectors are on the rise

and why? Where are your customers hanging out, and where can you find them? Who are your competitors?

Are you sure no one else has already produced your product or service? If you’re joining a competitive market, what makes you stand out?

After you’ve carried out extensive

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

research and are convinced that

If you understand your customers,

addition to the market and beneficial

the competition. Who is it for? Ask

you should take into account in order

narrow down your target audience and

what you have created will be a new

there is no need to be afraid of

to a group of consumers, here’s what

yourself that question to help you

to succeed.

deal with the nonbelievers.

1. Don’t Be Afraid of the Competition

I made this for you, not for anyone

Entering a competitive market can

else, but for you.

have created or developed something

When you understand your customer’s

competitors. You’ve seen there’s a

you’re offering will help someone solve

fill that hole. You know that whatever

those you seek to serve.

service, experience or feature, is worth

2. Go Digital

market. So, believe in your offering.

consumers shop, now relying on

will improve the life of a group of

has accelerated the development of

be daunting. But, most probably, you that will set you apart from your

worldview, you know that whatever

gap in the market, and you’re there to

a problem and make things better for

you’re selling, whether it be a product, the initial risk of entering a crowded

The pandemic has affected how

Believe that whatever you provide

online purchases. Also, Covid-19

consumers; your future customers.

e-commerce by around five years.

TECH

Nowadays, people are spending more

time online than ever, with the average

person spending around 3 hours and 15 minutes on their mobile phones every

day. Chances are, your customers will be online, and so should you.

Improve Online Conversion

Create your website; include

information that will help your

customers understand why you are

different and what you have to offer.

Make sure to list your products/

services or features in a clear and

aesthetically pleasing way. Also, it’s always a good idea to make your

company approachable with contact

details, social channels and live chat just in case any of your customers have questions or a problem that needs solving.

The more places you are online, the

better. Why? Because it will help you grow your SEO and online visibility.

Also, by joining different third-party

platforms, you’ll be able to showcase your products or services to a larger community of consumers.

Psydro is another viable Google listing,

offering start-ups and small businesses

a range of unique features that will help them grow and attract new customers.

Try our free Launch plan to get a taste of what we have to offer. Maybe it will be a perfect fit for you, or maybe not.

But it’s worth a try!

Finally, if you haven’t done so yet,

you should create a business page on the most popular social media

platforms. The average person spends around two and a half hours on these platforms every day. So, if you’re

a new company looking to attract

new customers and promote your

brand, social media will help you out.

Nowadays, you can even sell your

products/ services on these platforms, which will help boost sales.

3. Create a Professional Image

you can ask your customers specific

maintaining a professional image.

having it publicly posted online. Check

Building up your credibility is essential to

How to Find Consumer Insights?

questions about your business without out our page to learn more about it.

First up, don’t be afraid to fail, especially

4. Form Relationships and Listen to

through this, and many are still going

Customer loyalty means everything,

(e.g. reviews) from your potential

up. Customer loyalty will lead to word

services as soon as possible. This

family about you and how great your

important not to be afraid to fail, but

keep them happy, and by doing that,

in the beginning. Every business goes

Your Customers

through it. It is crucial to get feedback

especially for a small business or start-

customers about your products or

of mouth; they will tell their friends and

enables you to better your offering. It’s

product/service is. So, it’s important to

if you do, it’s vital to fail quickly and

others will come.

learnings to pivot or improve.

Reading customer reviews and

Customers, as opposed to friends and

understand what you’re doing well

unbiased opinions that will help your

replying, you’ll show that you care

cheaply and then, from that, take the

replying to them will help you

family, will give you their honest and

and what needs improving. Also, by

business grow and develop. So, if you

about those you serve.

you’ll build up your status in the

Reviews can help you to get to know what

consumers will see you’re doing a

What you sell is really just a means to an

use this feedback to your advantage, market and earn credibility because

your audience wants, knows and believes.

good job.

end; what consumers really want is to

We can help you gain this necessary

belonging, status, connection, peace of

only have we created a platform where

common human feeling.

companies. We have also developed

If a consumer purchases Matcha tea,

feedback to help you improve. Not

users can write reviews on different a Consumer Insights feature where

gain a specific emotional state such as mind, freedom, health, power or any other

it’s probably because they want to feel

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

TEC H

healthy. Someone who wants to rise

in status will buy an exclusive Airline

membership, and a user joining a social media platform is most likely to be seeking a sense of belonging.

Every decision that we make has a reason behind it, even if we rarely

acknowledge it. When you understand

this, you can use this to your advantage.

You’re not really selling a product or service, you’re selling a feeling.

Likewise, we humans are lonely

creatures, and we’re always seeking to

be part of something bigger, a community that will accept us. You can create that community through brand marketing.

Everything you do in your business, from how you package your products to the

way you answer your customers, is seen as a form of brand marketing.

Remember to always promote your ethos, mission and goals to your

customers. Show them that you’re not just a business, but a community that stands for certain values, values that

56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

your followers also sympathise with.

brand’s ethos and notice you. In this

community that empowers its customers

trust and action from your potential

The brand is also on a mission to fight

for small businesses, any start-up or

and mental wellbeing to its community

a scalable online business.

organizations. These values resonate

Being part of a start-up or small

the brand build a strong emotional

never ends. There’s always something

For example, Lululemon has built a

way, you’ll manage to earn attention,

to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.

customers. With these 5 expert tips

climate change and promote physical

medium business will be able to build

by partnering with local and global

with like-minded people, which helps

business can seem that the work

connection with its customers.

to do, and there always will be.

This strategy will help create customer

your work from your private life and

loyalty and a memorable image in the eyes of the ones you seek to serve.

5. Put Yourself Out There

However, do remember to separate not become a work addict!

Finally, no business will rise to fame

and fortune overnight, so be patient

In whatever market you’re entering

and, most importantly, have fun!

competitive. So, it’s crucial to put

if it will make you feel anxious and

(or have already entered), it will be

There’s no point in starting a business

yourself out there. Build up a business

emotionally drained.

persistent, consistent and frequent

www.business.psydro.com

with a clear identity and end goal. Be with whatever you’re doing. Even if

it will sound dull and monotonous to you after a while, that’s when your

customers will start absorbing your

SBT CHARITY

HELP US EMPOWER MORE CHILDREN TO SAVE LIVES WITH LITTLE LIFE SAVER

SUPERHERO IDROP RAISES OVER £16K

IN AID OF ROCKINGHORSE CHILDRENS CHARITY

CHOSEN CHARITY PARTNER:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

C HA RI T Y

Help us empower more children to save lives, just like Henry did

Little LifeSavers is a UK-wide charity offering free basic lifesaving skills to schoolchildren in Year 5 and 6 of Primary school, and Year 7 and 8 of Secondary school.

Our charity’s vision

Charity

is to reach every

child in Years 5 to 8 throughout the UK with these simple

skills, so that they can take appropriate action should they ever need to, and

not have to stand by unable to assist because they did not know what to

do. It is our hope that a child in Year

5 would receive this training annually

through to year 8. Repeat exposure to

the skills helps embed them and increase confidence to use them if needed.

But it is an enormous task. There are

approximately 3.7 million children in 28,000 schools within our targeted range, so we

58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

need a lot of volunteers and fundraising

cardiac arrest. The man returned to work

of volunteers that were willing to teach

pleasure of interviewing the Henry and

we would achieve our vision and create a

with them here www.facebook.

support. If each school had a small pool

six weeks later. Our Chairman had the

every two or three months between them,

his parents, you can see our interview

nation of Little LifeSavers.

com/LittleLifeSaversCharity/

Currently, bystander CPR provision is

posts/2857026597891350

only 30% and survival from Cardiac

How does Volunteering work?

Early CPR from bystanders has been

approximately one hour to deliver, and

Volunteering with us equips you with the

commitment of Four sessions per year

need to make a difference.

hours a year as a minimum. You do not

One of the children we taught recently,

formal CPR qualification, we train and

Arrest in the community stands at 10%.

The sessions we teach take

shown time and again to save lives.

we ask our volunteers for a minimum

skills to assist immediately should you

to schools local to them. That is only 4

Henry, went on to save his father from a

need to be medically trained or have a support all our volunteers.

CHA RITY

is therefore not necessary.

Because it is our aim to

reach as many children as

we can with our simple skill set, we need to recruit as

many volunteer instructors

as possible throughout the

UK. It is neither feasible nor necessary to formally train

thousands of adults when the model we teach is so simple.

The skills taught in the session are as follows:

How Often Should I Volunteer to Teach?

• Child Hands-only CPR

you can – because it means we can

• The recovery position.

practice for you as a volunteer instructor

I’ve never taught befor and I don’t

volunteering with us. Ideally we would

still volunteer?

instructors for a half day once a month

CPR trained to volunteer, but it is

day and in term-time. The minimum

a volunteer instructor with Little

a year – or once every three months.

and agreeing to teach it exactly as

to teach. Volunteers who do not teach

CPR training provides far more than

a Zoom Training session again to refresh

• Management of choking in a child

The short answer to this is as often as

• Adult hands-only CPR

teach more children and it is good

How can you help?

We are asking for businesses who offer charity partnerships and employee

volunteer days to contact us to learn more about our charity and discuss how they can help us.

We are asking schools to introduce us to PTAs so we can work directly with

them for volunteer recruitment drives.

If you would still like to help but are

not in a position to volunteer or offer corporate partnership opportunities

we welcome donations and additional fundraising activies.

– especially when you have just started

If you are able to donate, and only if

have any formal CPR training, Can I

ask for availability of all our volunteer

uk.virginmoneygiving.com/donation-

We welcome people who are formally

and we only teach during the school

not a requirement to be able to be

commitment is providing four sessions

LifeSavers. Learning our simple model

This helps volunteers to stay confident

laid out is all that is required. Formal

for six months will be required to attend

our simple bystander skills model and

their memory for the training model.

you are able, please do so here https:// web/charity?charityId=1014575&stop_ mobi=yes

Please do leave a message so we can

thank you and Sussex Business Times for their support.

info@littlelifesavers.org 0300 3035252

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

C HA RI T Y

Superhero iDrop raises over £16k for Rockinghorse

The iDrop at British Airways i360 in Brighton made a welcome return on Thursday in aid of Rockinghorse Children’s Charity.

The event, the first

Charity

organised by the

charity this year, saw

27 brave participants

enjoying the beautiful

early evening sun to take part in the abseil from the i360, all in the name of charity.

The iDrop, operated by the i360, saw the

fundraisers securely lowered, one by one, from the open pod doors 450ft above

Brighton seafront, taking in spectacular view of the city. Each one enjoyed the sweeping 360-degree views as they

gently glided down to beach level to be cheered on by their supporters.

The event took place first thing in the

early evening of Thursday 15 July and

raised over £16,000 for Rockinghorse,

the local children’s charity, best known for being the official fundraising arm of

the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital

and a vital supporter of the neighbouring Trevor Mann Baby Unit.

Along with participants from Morgan

Sindall and 1 Crown Office Row, the BBC Radio Sussex presenter Allison Ferns

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also braved the drop despite having a

started. It’s a wonderful event and gives

great fear of heights.

all our fundraisers a once in a lifetime

Allison’s producer Will Flockton

Brighton seafront landmark – the views

landing safely back on the ground, Allison

especially on a beautiful summer evening.

really emotional. There may have been a

“But obviously we hold events like

my mum at the top. But then once you’re

thankful to every single person who

such an amazing view, it was actually

amazing total of over £16,000. These

what, I would do it again!

children who need treatment in hospital

nominated her for the event and after

described her experience: “It was actually

opportunity to jump from the iconic

from the top across the city are lovely,

few tears at the top. I may have wanted

this is to raise money and we are so

going down – it’s so smooth. And it’s

has taken part and helped us reach the

quite serene and tranquil. And you know

funds will help so many sick babies and

“I feel amazing. I never thought I would

or the local community.”

ever in my wildest dreams that I would

And don’t worry if you missed out on this

holds the coat at theme parks. I’m the

above the Brighton skyline, the charity

be the person to do this. I’m the one who

iDrop and still fancy flying through the air

one who couldn’t face the helter-skelter.

has another one planned in December.

raises some money for the Rockinghorse

With just a £50 registration fee and

But I did it and it was amazing and if it charity then it’s been all worthwhile.”

a minimum sponsorship of £250, it’s

Lucy Pond, Challenge Event Manager

more information or to sign up, contact

be able to organise the event: “It’s so

Rockinghorse on: 01273 330044 or take

and this iDrop is a great way to get

www.rockinghorse.org.uk/events.

chance in a lifetime opportunity. For

for Rockinghorse, was really pleased to

enquiries@rockinghorse.org.uk, call

lovely to be able to hold events again

a look at the Rockinghorse website at:

SBT MOTORING NEWS

THE NEWEST CAR TECHNOLOGY IN 2021

WE FIND OUT MORE

2021’S BEST SUMMER CONVERTABLES

WITH RIVERVALE LEASING

SBT MOTORING NEWS SPONSORED BY:

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MOTO RI N G N E WS

The Newest Car Technology in 2021

Automotive technology continues to accelerate at a rapid pace, with drivers looking for the best next-generation specs to fit out their vehicles.

From the increasing

Motoring News

demand for hybrid

and electric vehicles for a greener future to the

dazzling infotainment systems that keep the whole family entertained, car manufacturers are constantly

searching for exciting new ways to engage their customers.

Trends we’re seeing in new car

technology for 2021 span across both interior and exterior innovation, with a

key focus on enhancing safety features

62 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

and improving connectivity. Whether

it’s under the hood or inside the cabin,

there’s plenty of exciting new technology to look forward to this year. Let’s review some of the best.

Hydrogen-powered cars

The concept of a hydrogen-powered car isn’t new, but these vehicles

actually hitting the roads is now a reality. Yet another alternative to

traditional petrol and diesel models,

hydrogen power is gaining popularity in the automotive industry, albeit at a slower pace than electric and hybrid

models. Some models to watch in 2021 include the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai which has been transformed

into a premium sedan, leaving behind the quirky-looking hatchback it was previously launched as.

Its more traditional look would leave many surprised to discover it’s an

alternative fuel vehicle. Honda has

also released the Clarity Fuel-Cell, a

sophisticated sedan featuring innovative heat-blocking windows and a spacious interior. We’re expecting to see more

players come to the table as hydrogen-

MOTOR I NG N E WS powered models become a closely

watched competitor in the alternative fuel vehicle industry.

Hands-free driving

It wasn’t long ago that the idea of

self-driving cars seemed like a sign of a distant future. However, the

interest in self-driving and hands-free cars only continues to gain pace and manufacturers are making moves to increase technology in this space.

Nissan has announced their ProPilot

Assist 2.0 system which offers drivers the option to experience hands-off

single-lane driving and hands-on guided land changing capabilities.

While it’s currently pinned to be

launched in the US in Nissan’s electric

Ariya SUV in late 2021, there are hopes the UK market will follow not too

long after, as laws are currently being

reviewed to allow automated driving in the UK. Behaving as a super-adaptive cruise control system, the additional benefit of the system not timing out

is afforded by the hands-off element.

Aimed at reducing driver fatigue on long journeys, this new technology

also aims to minimise lane-change and rear-end accidents.

Enhanced Head-up Display

Only a few years ago, head-up display was a luxury feature highly sought after but limited only to high-end

vehicles. Technology has evolved

at a phenomenal rate, now offering

head-up display to a wider market, increasing accessibility across the

industry. Now, all that’s required is a

smartphone and a compatible vehicle.

A great example of head-up display technology in 2021 is the Hudway Drive. With the ability to plug into

any dashboard, users simply need to

power with a 12V outlet and connect to their phone. Displaying key information including speed, fuel level, weather

insights, notifications from your phone

including text messages and calls, and even turn-by-turn navigation.

Easily delivered within the driver’s line of

sight with minimal distraction, the display can be customised to suit your needs,

showing you everything you want while

removing anything you don’t need. With

the ability to connect cameras, including a night camera, backup and side view, blind spots are covered with ease. As

head-up displays become increasingly more accessible, it’s technology that

drivers will be incorporating into their driving experience for a better, more informed journey.

Teen Driver Technology

A fairly new addition to the car

technology space, teen driver tech is currently only available across a

the presence of oncoming cyclists and traffic. Targeting collisions caused by passengers opening car doors just as a cyclist travels past, the system is particularly effective in city settings where parked cars are a major concern for bike riders.

Operating for several minutes once the engine has been turned off, the sensors detect an approaching rider or car and alert the passenger using bright lights to engage their attention.

Systems vary, with the most advanced locking the door to prevent it from being opened if passengers miss the alerts of the guidance system.

Air Purification Systems Jaguar has been working on cutting-

few makes and models. Designed

edge air purification systems that in

inexperienced drivers, the technology

inhibit airborne bacteria and viruses by

as they let their teens behind the wheel.

unique user experience, the Panasonic

including whether a driver is driving

voltage to create trillions of Hydroxyl

ability to disable audio if seat belts

water molecules. Pinned as next-

to increase safety for new and

laboratory tests have been found to

can help to put parents’ minds at ease

up to 97 per cent. Helping to deliver a

With notifications on information

nanoe™ X technology uses high

faster than a particular speed, the

Radicals enveloped in nano-sized

aren’t being used, set volume limits on

generation air filtration technology of

sound systems, and in some cases the ability to filter out explicit content, it’s

a dynamic solution that is helping keep young drivers safe.

Report cards are also available to

inform parents whether safety systems have been triggered. By reducing

distractions and keeping parents in

the loop, teen driver technology is set to grow in popularity, especially for

families whose younger drivers borrow the car from parents.

Exit Warning Systems

Wondering what might be on the cards

the future, it will be rolled out across several models that already offer the current nanoe™ technology.

New car technology in 2021 continues to make leaps and bounds, setting a new pace for innovation to stay competitive and offer a better customer experience. With impressive safety features a top priority for manufacturers, there’s no shortage of advances to take advantage of. So get in touch today on 01273 433480 or request a callback at a time that suits you.

in terms of car safety? Designed to keep drivers and cyclists safe, the

exit warning system triggers an alert using rear-looking sensors to detect

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MOTO RI N G N E WS

2021’s best summer convertibles Picture this: it’s the middle of summer, Motoring you’re cruising down News the road with the roof down, the sun shining, with the breeze just strong enough to feel the wind in your hair. It sounds pretty good, right?

A convertible is the perfect car for enjoying a sunny day, and our normally criticised weather actually offers the ideal balance between overwhelmingly windy and overwhelmingly hot. If this is the vehicle you want to sport this summer, we’ve rounded up the best on the market - with options to suit a variety of different price ranges and preferences.

Convertibles on a budget A convertible doesn’t have to break the bank, and if you’re looking for one such vehicle on a tighter budget, there are plenty of options to choose from.

We’ll start with the Fiat 500c, which you can find from around £15,200.

Very similar to the classic Fiat 500, it sports the same cute, retro-chic look it’s well known for, with an economical two-cylinder TwinAir engine. If you’ll be whizzing around the city, the 500c is good for city traffic. Fiat has recently made a number of their models electric later, and the 500c is one of them, which may be pleasing for eco-conscious drivers - though it does cost a bit more.

The MINI Convertible is another option.

Similar to the above - and a main competitor - as a fellow hatchback with MINI’s classic retro look, it’s slightly dearer from £20,500. Again, there are both petrol and electric options to choose from.

Next up, we’ve got the Smart Fortwo EQ Cabrio. Available from around £21,000, this is a highly customisable convertible, offering manual and automatic options, three trim levels, as well as multiple

64 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

engines including a fully electric version.

It’s also compact - this is the smallest convertible on the market, though it doesn’t lack in detailing or features, and comes with a great infotainment system.

High-end convertibles When it comes to high-end, top convertibles or sports cars, the Mazda MX-5 is an obvious classic, a worldwide bestseller now in its fourth generation.

Available from £26,000, we’re looking at slightly pricier vehicles now, but the MX-5 is great value for money and really reasonable for what it is: a powerful drive, with stylish bodywork, SKYACTIV technology, and a range of impressive features.

But we can’t talk about sports cars without mentioning Mercedes-Benz.

And specifically, we’re looking at the SLC; available from £37,000; the SLC is a reimagination of the SLK, one of the most iconic convertibles of the nineties.

With a classic folding hardtop, the SLC is complete with a sports braking system, cruise control and some of the most comprehensive safety tech you can get.

But the Audi TT Roadster also deserves an honourable mention, beating out many of its competitors in terms of style, performance, and even price. Though it’s around £38,000 in terms of cost, it’s great value for money; unlike many convertibles, its open-top system is flawless in terms of design. But even without the promise of an open-roof thrill, the TT Roadster offers a variety of other excellent features, with sports suspension and parking sensors.

Currently on its third generation, the TT sports a stylish look and a great drive, but it retains the original charm from 1998 which made it a classic.

Performance Convertibles Porsche is well known as a high-end,

luxurious sports car brand - so it should be no surprise that the Porsche 718 Boxster stands out as one of the ultimate performance convertibles.

It’s a classic, too, which has evolved impressively over the last 20 years since its first release in 1996. Now, it’s one of the best on the market: a great drive, good handling, steering (it has a sports steering wheel) and grip, with epic performance and a stylish interior. The Boxster costs around £46,000, but it’s well worth the money.

If you’re looking to splash out, though, the Jaguar F-Type is absolutely a convertible that you should consider. Polished, stylish, and top-of-the-range when it comes to performance, the F-Type is a definite classic. In fact, it’s widely acclaimed as one of the best looking convertibles on sale. But it’s not all about the looks.

All models come with an upgraded V8 engine with eight-speed automatic transmission as standard, and featurewise, it’s also impressive. We’re talking voice recognition, Interactive Driver Display, adjustable seats, cabin lighting and a 10-inch touch screen. Overall, to say the F-Type is a satisfying drive is an understatement, but it’ll cost you: the F-Type starts at £54,000, and can creep up to over £100,000.

With so many different options available, the open-roof thrill of a convertible has never been easier to achieve. So, what’ll you be choosing this summer?

Remember, if you’re looking to lease rather than purchase your next car, we’ve got a variety of leasing deals available, with plenty of convertibles that could have your name on it. That includes all of the cars listed in this article! Take a look, or if you’d prefer to speak directly with one of our experts, get in touch on 01273 433480 or request a callback at a time that suits you.

SBT CHAMBER NEWS

BRIGHTON CHAMBER IS BACK WITH IN-PERSON EVENTS!

BY BRIGHTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SUSSEX CHAMBER PROUD TO HAVE BEEN APPOINTED...

AS A TRAILBLAZER AND PILOT FOR THE SKILLS ACCELERATOR PROGRAMME

THE BETTER BUSINESS SHOW 2021 THURSDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER

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C HA M B E R N E WS

Brighton Chamber is back with in-person events!

Throughout June and July, we have been gradually returning our in-person events.

It’s been great to

Chamber News

be out and about

again running faceto-face events,

helping members

connect, learn and make great business connections, whilst exploring some of

the fantastic venues our city has to offer.

Here are some of our highlights from the past couple of months.

Behind-the-scenes at Edward Street Quarter

Our first in-person event since March 2020 (that’s over 15 months!) was a

sneak peak of the new Edward Street Quarter development in Brighton.

The £120 million redevelopment of

66 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the former AMEX House in Brighton,

owned by First Base, will provide public spaces, housing, retail and workspace.

Steve Eccles, Project Director at First

Base showed members their progress

off some of Brighton’s most dedicated

networkers, who still joined us for a fun and fresh walk along Brighton seafront to Shoreham Port.

so far, taking them to the top of the

Bite-sized Learning: How to improve

views across Brighton.

emotional intelligence

6-storey building for some fantastic

It was great to be back in-person, doing zoom waves in 3D. Netwalking

Trialling a new event format, our

Netwalking series explores different

areas of our beautiful city - combining great walks and great networking.

Although we were subject to the whims of the weather, a spot of rain didn’t put

performance through strengthening We are also back doing some of our

Bite-sized Learning events in-person.

Aideen Smith Watson, of Lifeblueprint Workplace Wellbeing, ran a workshop for us all about improving

performance through strengthening emotional intelligence.

As we navigate our way through hybrid working, or returning to the workplace, Aideen’s workshop helped attendees to understand emotions, how to

CHAM BE R N E WS

manage behaviour and relationships, respond to challenges and find

opportunities within workplace stress.

Behind-the-scenes at Ridgeview Wine Estate

Bottom’s up at Ridgeview!

In celebration of English Wine Week,

our second behind-the-scenes of the

year included a tour of the Ridgeview estate and vines.

We learnt about the family story behind the vines, what goes into production and how they’ve pivoted throughout COVID – ending in a sample of the

wine menu with a stunning backdrop over Ditchling and the downs.

Pop-up Breakfast at Moshimo

again than with a Pop-up Breakfast at

build new business connections, and

A Japanese breakfast accompanied by

Head to our event calendar for the

Head of Innovation at Brighton and Hove

continuing to run a mix of in-person

Moshimo in Brighton.

networking and a talk from Patrick Warner, Buses. Patrick shared his story, from

starting the hydrogen bus initiative on local bus routes around Brighton and Hove, to being seconded to other bus companies

latest Brighton Chamber events. We’re and online events, with networking,

learning and inspiring opportunities to

help you build and grow your business.

across the country to spread the initiative.

You can stay up-to-date with the

Slo-mo Networking at Malmaison

the Chamber, by signing up to our

Networking on a sunny July morning at Malmaison in Brighton for a structured event focussed on making building

great business relationships – finishing

latest news, events and updates from mailing list.

www.brightonchamber.co.uk/event

the morning off networking on the deck, overlooking the marina.

Another first – our first in-person

As we return to face-to-face events,

what better way to kick breakfasts off

members meet in-person again to

breakfast since February 2020 – and

strengthen old ones.

it has been great to see Chamber

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 67

C HA M B E R N E WS

Sussex Chamber proud to have been appointed as a Trailblazer and Pilot for the Skills Accelerator Programme The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) welcome the Chamber involvement in trailblazing local skills improvement plans.

Reacting to the

Chamber News

news that eight

Accredited Chambers of Commerce will be leading the pilots for

the new local skills improvement plans (LSIPs), Hannah Essex, Co-Executive Director of the BCC, said:

“It is great news that Accredited

Chambers will be leading all eight of the trailblazer LSIPs as part of

the Skills Accelerator programme.

Rooted in local business communities, chambers will be keen to embrace the

views of all those committed to making skills the key to improving life chances and economic growth.

68 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

“Chambers look forward to working collaboratively with business

communities, education and training providers and a wide range of other

interested parties to identify what more

can be done to improve the development of skills in their regions, for the benefit of

individuals, businesses and the economy.

“A recent independent report

commissioned by the BCC established

that it’s vital that business and the skills system work together to ensure people

are training for genuine, well paid career

opportunities that exist in their local areas.

“LSIPs will help transform how we

assess, agree and plan for skills provision

and, in time, tackle the pervasive skills

shortages that put a brake on business productivity and growth.

“The Prime Minister spoke earlier about levelling up which is a key part of the

BCC’s Rebuild strategy for the economy as we emerge from the pandemic.

Plugging the skills gap, both in terms of geography and within industries, is key

to providing opportunities for people and ensuring that everyone has the chance to find quality, sustainable jobs.”

The eight Accredited Chambers of

Commerce that will be leading LSIPs are Cumbria, North-East England

(Teesside), Doncaster (South Yorkshire),

CHAM BE R N E WS the skills and training they need that leads directly to a job.

A consultation has been

already supported thousands

in the Skills for Jobs White Paper, which

through Skills Bootcamps, and access to almost 400

free courses through the Free

Courses for Jobs programme.

Business West (Greater West of

England), Kent Invicta and Sussex.

Department for Education – Skills

reforms to post-16 education and training will ensure everyone no matter where

they live can gain the skills they need to

progress and secure a great career at any stage of their life.

The consultation will ask for

The measures announced build on the

be adapted for the future, so

further and technical education, including

views on how the fund should it continues to meet the future

Midlands (Leicestershire & Leicester),

wherever they live.”

In January the government set out vital

adults to upskill and retrain

North and West Lancashire, East

so that people can thrive and prosper –

launched on the future of the

National Skills Fund, which has

Ana Christie

learning and investing in communities

skills needs of individuals and

employers, levelling up opportunities across the country.

Eighteen areas across the country will also be the first to lead work to build

work already underway to transform

the roll out of new T Levels, working with employers to create more high-quality

apprenticeship opportunities, establishing a system of Higher Technical Education

and a network of Institutes of Technology, backed by up to £290 million.

Training Boosted Across the Country

stronger partnerships between local

Next Steps

Further measures to boost the nation’s

providers through the Skills Accelerator

Chamber will engage with business,

more people into better paid jobs have

meets the need of local communities

employer groups, colleges and other

skills, level up opportunities and get

programme, so the training on offer

been announced.

and fills skills gaps in key sectors of

The measures come after the Prime

digital, clean energy and manufacturing.

where he underlined the need to escalate

the training needed to secure great

education through the lifetime skills

uk/government/publications/skills-

the economy including construction,

Minister delivered his levelling up speech,

This will mean more people can get

the value of practical and vocational

jobs close to home. https://www.gov.

guarantee, which will boost skills and

accelerator-trailblazers-and-pilots

every stage of their lives.

Education Secretary Gavin

open up opportunities for more people at

The Government’s successful Skills

Williamson said:

Bootcamp training programmes will be

“No matter where you are from, everyone

offering an extra 16,000 fully funded

needed to get a good job – whether

expanded to every region of the country,

should have the chance to get the skills

places for adults to upskill or retrain.

that’s to launch a new career or upskill

The expansion covers a range of digital

at the heart of our ambitious reforms, to

skills, such as solar energy installation,

the pandemic, empowering people to get

and green transport, along with coding

want. Today marks the next vital step

adults have the opportunity to access

by investing in skills, investing in lifelong

in their industry. We have put skills right

and technical training including in green

make sure we can build back better from

sustainable agriculture, nuclear energy,

the skills they need to build the life they

and software development, so more

in our mission to level up opportunities

Over the coming months, Sussex local authorities, local enterprise

partnerships, colleges, universities, training providers, town chambers and business organisations, skills groups, as well as

other key stakeholders to carry out in-

depth research to understand the local

skills needs (through a mix of quantitative

and qualitative data research), identify and

understand root causes and enablers, and develop a roadmap for change.

This will be your opportunity to

help shape an employer-led and

locally owned skills improvement plan. Further details will be

announced shortly, however should you have any questions in the

meantime, please email skills@

sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 69

BEE PART OF THE Worthing Leisure Centre Thurs 23rd Sept • 10am - 4pm NEW VENUE!

Buy Local

exhibitor stands Explore local opportunities

Discover what’s on your doorstep

At the show...

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Meet the buyers

Breakfast Power Hour Enjoy some networking over a hearty breakfast

From local larger companies and Adur & Worthing Council

Managing Director

Aviatrix

Future Trends and Customer attitudes

Jo Hunter Chief Food Lover

Piglets Pantry Surviving & Thriving during COVID

Lunch Box

Andrew Coggings Goodwood Estate

...network and mingle

Free business support

Helen Bailey

Getting back to business at Goodwood Estate

Karen Dobres

From business experts in various fields and industries

Elected Co-Director

Lewes Football Club

FREE ENTRY

Power of equality in the business world

#betterbiz2021

www.worthingandadurchamber.co.uk SHOW ORGANISER 70 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

HEADLINE SPONSOR

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www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 71

N ETWORK I N G & E V E NTS

Table Talk Foundation launch event On 14th June

Networking & Events

2021, guests were welcomed at the Ridgeview Wine

Estate in Ditchling,

East Sussex to celebrate the launch of Table Talk Foundation, a new charity aiming to support local hospitality

education and sector professionals.

Table Talk Foundation has two

support channels: the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts’ Adopt a School

programme and Hospitality Action, for

whom it raised £26,500 on the night of the inaugural event.

The Adopt a School charity allocates grants for primary schools to teach

children about the importance of food, from provenance and sustainability to

nutrition and cooking, while Hospitality Action is there to support workers who may have fallen out of luck or need a

72 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

helping hand to see them through a

kitchen for children to learn the many

difficult patch in their career.

joys and benefits of cooking.”

Table Talk is planning a series of

“It’s so important to get involved in the

one to be held at the Arundel Castle

We have an obesity crisis in this country,

can also support the foundation

year on its knees and we want to provide

fundraising events, with the next

local community for such a great cause.

Cricket Club on September 3rd. You

the hospitality industry has spent the past

through hosting your own events,

solutions to these problems at a local level.

beneficiary charity to your business, or

“Most of our support comes from local

with direct donations, by making it a through word of mouth.

businesses and it’s great to see; every

Co-founder of Table Talk Daniel Wade

with the work that we want to do, from

success. Thanks to our supporters, we

take their children on days out to school

contribution gives us a kickstart to get on

said the launch event “was a great

summer grants for hospitality workers to

raised £26,500, which is unbelievable.

uniforms for children whose parents have

“With these fundraisers our goal is to

run into difficult times.”

ensure that we can support people

In the meantime, if you would like to

programme and Hospitality Action as

their website at https://www.tabletalk-

locally through the Adopt a School

support the Table Talk Foundation, visit

well as on projects of our own. We are

foundation.com/

currently working on a bid to build a

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

Best Of British Members Club event July’s Best of British

Networking & Events

Members club event saw us return to the

amazing Malmaison

for a lunchtime event.

It was great to once again meet some new members and continue to build

some great relationships. This months guest speaker was Anne Usher MBE

and it was amazing to hear her story.

Anne Usher was a physiotherapist and competitive cyclist until a back injury

left her unable to heal herself or to ride anymore. She felt an inward spiral of failure both professionally and in her sport. Volunteering for the London

Olympics in 2012 was “one of the best

tonics” and led to a chance meeting with the British Paralympic canoeing coach.

Despite never having been in a boat

before due to suffering from chronic

One of the many benefits of the

for the kayaking squad. As a working

great speakers at each event. Truly

conventional mould of an elite athlete.

intimate setting. Looking forward to the

seasickness, she was challenged to aim

members club is the calibre of

mum in her late 40s, Anne didn’t fit the

inspirational and insightful talks in an

But she had a “crazy dream” of learning

first breakfast event in September.

to represent her country at the Rio

Limited to just 50 Members and

a new sport and becoming good enough Paralympic Games.

exclusively for CEO’s, Directors, Senior

Remarkably she is now two time World

of British Members Club remains sold

champion. Her journey was not at all

in 2022 Membership please email

reach her audacious goal! Not only did

the team will be in touch.

Partners and Business Owners, The Best

champion and three times European

out for 2021. To register your interest

straightforward but she did manage to

membersclub@bestofbritish.org.uk and

she qualify for the 2016 Rio Paralympics she won the 100th gold medal of the

games! “When you’re in a really dark

place, sometimes you can’t see a way out. But it’s often because you are looking in the wrong place.”

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 73

N ETWORK I N G & E V E N TS

Popular business networking event returns to the Amex Stadium for the first time since the pandemic began

With live events set to make their long-awaited return, one being welcomed in good numbers is the re-launch of the hugely successful Network Albion Business Club at the Amex Stadium, hosted and powered by Network My Club.

75+ businesses from

Networking & Events

across Brighton,

Sussex and the South East are due to meet over a two-course

lunch on Thursday 2nd September, all

to the background of the iconic Premier League stadium.

Network My Club has been running the networking event at the Amex Stadium since 2016. Founder and Managing

Director, Bradley Hatchett, says: “After

what will have been 19 months of running online-only events, we are over the moon

to be bringing in-person networking back to Brighton and the South East”.

74 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Prior to the pandemic, Network My Club hosted face-to-face events, monthly, at

various sporting venues across London and the South East. Since March 2020, those events have taken place over the online platform, Remo.

“To say the last year has been

challenging would be an understatement.

But we relaunch with a revamped

events schedule, a host of new, exciting members and a renewed passion of

bringing people together, connecting the best businesses in the region.

“We understand some may be nervous about the return of in-person events,

and our online meet-ups continue

to cater for this. But as restrictions

ease, we’re feeling the overwhelming eagerness of businesses awaiting

the long overdue opportunity to meet in-person, share updates and simply catch up with friends and business associates alike.”

“We’re promising the opportunity to grow your network once again with

collaborative, like-minded people in a

relaxed, friendly and safe environment.

We can’t wait to see the Sussex

business community in-person again!”

Open to both Network My Club

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

members and non-members, Sussexbased businesses covering industries from solicitors to financial services

to construction are expected to be in attendance.

With speakers for the schedule to

be announced, previous events have hosted talks from the likes of Anna

Hemmings MBE and Ted Baker CoFounder Chris Brown.

To secure your place for just

£30pp, visit the Network My Club website here.

business profile and attend other in-

person events at prestigious sporting grounds like the Kia Oval Cricket

Ground and Twickenham Stadium, by

becoming a member from just £39 per month here.

Or you can join the ever growing

Network My Club group; raise your

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 75

N ETWORK I N G & E V E NTS

Best Event Agency Award goes to Identity

Identity, with its HQ in Sussex, has been named Best Large Events Agency in the UK. The agency, that

Networking & Events

delivered the G7

Summit in Cornwall and works with the likes of Unilever

and Panasonic, accepted the Award in London at the CN Agency Awards.

Identity has been on an unstoppable successful trajectory over the last

decade. In the past year alone Identity expanded its team by 45 percent, attracted several new blue-chip

clients, opened a new office in central London and is on track to achieve

industry and our clients - who trust Identity

Dock in London on July 22 and were

sales in excess of £100m. It will round

to deliver the ultimate in events every time.

one of the first, large scale industry

Glasgow this November.

“Thank you to the judges who considered

lifting of coronavirus restrictions. The

Managing Director, Michael Gietzen

proud of everything Identity has achieved

event industry professionals, representing

off 2021 with the delivery of COP26 in

events to take place following the

Identity the worthy winner. We are very

ceremony was attended be over 300

said: “This award is a much-deserved

so far, and there is lots more to come.”

50 of the UK’s biggest agencies.

and devoted team at Identity. It is also

The awards, much delayed by the

www.identitygroup.co.uk

accolade for the exceptionally talented a great endorsement of our work by the

76 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

pandemic, took place at Tobacco

SBT SPORT

LAURENCE ELPHICK ASKS...

WHAT IS IT ABOUT NOVAK DJOKOVIC THAT BRINGS HIM SO MUCH SUCCESS!?

BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION

SEAGULLS SUMMER ROUND UP

LAURENCE ELPHICK CONFESSES...

TO BEING SID THE SHARK…ONCE!

THE RAIDERS RETURN WITH WORTHING RUGBY CLUB

WHICH IS HARDER TO WIN...

AN INDIVIDUAL SPORT OR A TEAM SPORT?

SBT SPORT SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 77

S PORT

Laurence Elphick asks, what is it about Novak Djokovic that brings him so much success?

Originally, I had planned this piece to be around football and particularly about our forthcoming revered leader, Gareth Southgate, simply because he was raised in Crawley, and I was convinced England would win Euro 2020/1. I will just have to put that on hold for now and hopefully, he is saving himself for the World Cup next year!!

Over the coming

Sport

months, I plan to bring you the thoughts of what makes a true

winner from the array

of talented sports men and women

throughout our County, so while yours

truly goes about seeking the great and the good in the world of sport, for now I thought I would pick a giant from the tennis arena, one that most of us are hardly likely to cross paths with.

Let us begin our journey with what

happened a few hours before England

lost on penalties…again! Namely, tennis and the record equalling colossus that is Novak Djokovic winning again at

Wimbledon. Clearly having the mindset to be the best at what he does, the big hitting Serb has proved time and time again he is a legend, and his results

speak for themselves – 20 Grand Slam

titles, equalling the record currently held

78 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

by Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

Frequently described as a machine who seems to be able to compose himself

and up his game at will, Djokovic never seems flustered, out of breath or red faced and I swear he has the same

hairstyle that he had when he won his first title, the Australian Open back in

2008. His level of fitness is incredible

and his ability to stay at the top of his game is testament to his success.

He is currently ranked as the No. 1

player in the world and has been at

the top for a record total of 325 weeks, where he has also won 84 Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) singles

titles, including a record nine Australian

Open titles and a joint record 36 Masters events which he shares with Rafael

Nadal. He is the only player to win all

the main titles on the modern ATP Tour – that is, all four Grand Slam tournaments,

all nine ATP Masters events, and the ATP

Finals. In addition, he is also the first and only player in the Open Era to achieve a double career Grand Slam.

So, what makes Djokovic a winner?

He takes risks, practices every day, is always looking for ways to improve, knows his competition and how to

be better than them, has faith in his

own abilities, never gives up, always

remains calm, positive, and focused.

Undoubtedly, he also retains a desire

for success. But above all, he always

visualises winning and being the best.

Quite simply, Novak Djokovic, believes in what Novak Djokovic wants to achieve.

I have always believed sport and

business go hand in hand where many

aspects of both can be applied equally

to each other. Think like Novak and you won’t go too far wrong.

Now where did I put my tennis racquet!?

S PO RT

Seagulls summer round up I cannot wait for the football season to begin, because however hard I tried, games with no atmosphere and no fans, or a smattering of supporters dotted around, felt like a series of meaningless friendlies, resulting in a season that I really couldn’t get too excited about.

However, despite the

Sport

disappointment of

football not coming home this summer, seeing stadiums

across Europe filled with happy,

emotionally charged people supporting their respective nations rekindled the flame of excitement within me.

With the Premier League season

due to get underway on 14 August

(fingers crossed), and with a trip to

Burnley, Brighton & Hove Albion will be looking to dramatically improve on last season’s goals converted to chances created ratio. Good news then that

former England striker Danny Welbeck

Image courtesy of Paul Hazlewood, BHAFC Club Photographer

signed a new one-year contract with

Whilst writing with the reported sale of

scored six goals in 24 Premier League

Tony Bloom and Dan Ashworth can

Brighton fan you speak to will tell you

elusive leading striker who could then

the services of a proven goal scorer,

Andone, Zeqiri, and Percy Tau, all of

wins to elevate Albion further up the

are good enough for this level.

end of season battle to avoid relegation.

With the departures of Davy Propper, Mat

Graham Potter’s position at times looked

and Jose Izquierdo, the Seagulls are

the noise behind that seemed primarily to

Denmark forward, Martin Braithwaite

their Club’s precarious position around

forward Odsonne Edouard, who is in the

football being displayed was a marked

to be the subject of speculation during

the Seagulls. The 30-year-old forward

Ben White to Arsenal for £50 million,

appearances last season, but every

potentially set their sights on finding that

the Club desperately needs to secure

be backed up by Maupay, Connolly,

someone who can turn those draws into

whom the jury’s still out on whether they

table and away from the all too familiar

Ryan and Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Bernardo

under threat last season, though a lot of

reportedly interested in Barcelona and

be from disgruntled fans worrying about

together with Celtic’s 23-year-old French

the bottom three. However, the style of

final year of his contract and appears

improvement on seasons past and during

every transfer window!

Tottenham had Potter on their short list

Incoming signings so far include

appointed Nuno Espirito Santo.

Mwepu from Red Bull Salzburg on a

the summer it was even rumoured that to replace Jose Mourinho before they

four-year deal, having scored 11 goals in 81 league appearances where he

won four titles in four seasons with the Austrian club. In addition, presumably to replace the aforementioned Ryan,

the Seagulls have also completed the

signing of 21-year-old 6ft 8in goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen from Ajax.

However, surely the signing of the season could be retaining the services of the

highly sought after 24-year-old midfielder Yves Bissouma who has reportedly and regularly been of interest to Arsenal,

Chelsea, and Liverpool. Touch wood then that he remains a Seagull between now

and mid-August, otherwise I am going to look a complete buffoon!

Zambia’s 23-year-old midfielder Enock

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 79

S PORT

Laurence Elphick confesses to being Sid the Shark…once!

Having supported

Sport

Sussex as a boy, my

love for the Club really blossomed when

a previous career

allowed me to meet and interview some of the great players to represent our

fine County, from former Captain, Chris

Adams and legendary spinner Mushtaq

Ahmed to players that represent England today, namely Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer and Phil Salt.

However, my adoration for the Sharks

shifted to a different level back in 2018,

Image supplied by Stephen D. Lawrence

when I was asked to be the Club’s

mascot Sid the Shark. Having previously enjoyed stints dressed up as Marvin the

Monkey and the Easter Bunny, I jumped at the chance.

Having pictures taken with supporters

young and old, being there in the middle

with both Captains for the coin toss AND being on Sky TV was a dream come

true! After getting my instructions before each game about how I was expected to perform, I donned my costume and

stepped out to mingle with the masses.

Shortly into my debut, an extremely pleasant child decided it would be

hilarious to punch me in the proverbials!

Cue a hurried order on Amazon for a protective ‘box’.

My favourite memories as Sid included hugging businessmen and women

who had absolutely no idea it was me and who would have normally been

accustomed to seeing me in a suit and tie! Sitting in amongst the crowd as

Sid at the front of The Jointing Tech

Sharks Stand was electrifying and one game stands out against Glamorgan

when Rashid Khan was inspired with

80 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

3 wickets for 9 runs and pace bowler

Tymal Mills took a scintillating hattrick

as the opposition were skittled for just 88 runs. After vociferously celebrating

each wicket no sooner had I sat down trying to get my breath back (wearing Sid is hot work!) and I was back up again. I distinctly remember being

jumped on by some overly excited

Rashid supporters, nearly losing my costume head in the process!

An incredible experience, but I had

completely forgotten!? As Sussex had made it to finals day at Edgbaston, I was expected to take part in the

mascot race, which would be live on Sky AND in front of 25,000 cricket

fans!! Knowing I was very unfit and

dreading the thought of making a fool of myself, I reluctantly agreed to take part. I recall the day was particularly warm and the mascots representing the other counties were generally

guys in their twenties! While I was sweating buckets, waiting for the

race to begin, I distinctly remember a

chap saying he’d put some money on me to win!!?

Unfortunately, it went downhill from

there. For Sid, the race was a disaster, his foot came off after 10 yards (if

that!) and whilst trying to recover said item of clothing, he got completely disorientated, and only managed

to complete two obstacles, before

realising the race had finished and the other obstacles had been dismantled because he was taking so long!? The

humiliation of not completing the race was marginally improved by the fact that no-one knew it was me!

Later this month, Sussex have a

quarter final tie at Headingley and

victory will mean a trip to finals day where you’ll be delighted to hear I

WON’T be letting Sussex down, as the Club very sensibly traded me in for a younger model.

S PO RT

The Raiders return

At the time of writing, the Rugby landscape is currently being dominated by the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa, under the leadership of former Wales and New Zealand Coach Warren Gatland. The Lions tours are one of the most prestigious events in world rugby and only happen every four years. The team combines internationals from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland and heads to the southern hemisphere for a three Test series.

The last Lions tour

Sport

in New Zealand, when Gatland was also Head Coach, ended in a 1-1 draw,

with the third Test ending in a nailbiting 15-15 draw after England’s Owen Farrell converted a 77th minute penalty to draw the Lions level.

However, enough about the Lions, this is a Sussex magazine and I thought it would be more pertinent to profile the best men’s side in the County. Worthing Raiders, who are celebrating their centenary, having been formed on the 10 September 1920, ply their trade in National Division Two South, and who in the 2012-13 season, after gaining promotion, became the first club from Sussex to play in the third tier of English rugby.

So, how did it all start? Back to the summer of 1920, a group of men who had a shared passion for rugby met at York House in Worthing and concluded that the town was in need of a Rugby Football Club. Initially they had no equipment and no ground, but after managing to play at various local grounds over the coming years, including a farmer’s field, the Club moved to Castle Road where they played for 30 years. As their development in Junior and mini rugby expanded, so did their need for larger premises and eventually the Raiders

settled at their current location at

allowing full contact rugby, clubs have

Roundstone Lane in Angmering in

been able to reinstate scrums and

1977, with the ground being officially

mauls. Exciting times ahead then and

opened two years later.

with the 2021/22 season due to be underway in September, the Raiders

Originally the team played in green and

plan to celebrate with a 1920s themed

white stripes but because this was the

day at their first home league game on

colour also used by Guildford, this was

11 September with the British Army

changed in 1927 to what you see today,

Red Devils Parachute Display Team

royal blue with chocolate and gold

delivering the match ball prior to kick off.

hoops. These colours were chosen as an amalgamation of the colours of the schools

I can’t wait! See you there.

where many of the team had played, namely Cranleigh, Mill Hill and Dulwich.

Like all teams across the UK, rugby has been severely affected by the worldwide pandemic but with last month finally

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 81

S PORT

Which is harder to win...an individual sport or a team sport?

I have been lucky enough to be able to participate in many sports, both team and individual, cricket was my best (I was a bowler), however over the course of time, people will honestly tell you I was bang average at most of them!

But which is harder

Sport

to be the best at… being part of the

England T20 Blast

cricket team, or Lewis

Hamilton in Formula One?

Clearly this depends on the sport in

question, and unquestionably, they all

require an incredible skill set to achieve success. BUT…which one requires the most dedication to be the best.

Assuming one already has the ability in their respective field, and not like

me with two left feet, let’s look at the variables involved.

Team sport success depends on an entire team all working towards the

same end, producing maximum effort, but how often does one witness one

or two players having an off day when their shoulders drop, with the effect

spreading like wildfire, and seemingly diminishing the motivation of the rest

82 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

of the team? In essence, whatever

your talent level in said team sport, you must rely on your teammates as much as your own abilities. Without pulling

together, the teams’ performance will undoubtedly falter.

On the positive side, success,

fuelled by confidence, is shared and

conversely, the opposite can happen.

But, just as team sports can diminish the impact of the best players, they can also hide the influence of the worst players.

Individual competition requires a

different mindset to bring success,

because in an individual sport, that person is also their competition as

well as the person they are trying to beat. Every opportunity becomes

a chance to beat their own target, and this requires a high degree of

discipline, focus and drive to succeed.

As in the world of business, targets are there to be broken aren’t they!?

With individual sport, there is no hiding behind teammates. For an individual,

winning or losing is entirely up to that person, and every competition is a

chance to beat that persons’ last result.

Success and failure is down to them and essentially, success in individual sports requires a high level of discipline to continue to improve.

It also requires, in my opinion a high degree of selfishness; for me, the

rewards and the satisfaction in winning for oneself surely outweigh those

feelings that are shared. For both, I

believe the same motivation is required in the workplace, but I take my hat off

to those of you who are self-employed.

You need to be motivated to get up

and do your job otherwise you do not

make money. Simple as that. If you are part of a team its much easier to hide behind other people’s successes and

still be paid, especially if you are not in

the mood. But remember… you can only hide for so long!

SBT LIFESTYLE

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COUNTY BUSINESS CLUBS WINE OF THE MONTH

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Employee engagement is a critical driver of business success and improves workplace performance in many ways.

Low employee

Lifestyle

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negatively affects key

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productivity, profitability, absenteeism, and turnover. However, organisations that excel at employee engagement benefit from an improved work

environment and culture that encourages employees to be more dedicated to their companies’ goals and values.

According to David Callaghan, CEO at MIT Ventures, “True employee

engagement should be part of an

organisation’s DNA, where staff have a real connection with the business that they work for. Employee engagement

84 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

shouldn’t be the second to last item

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If you want to achieve your business goals and stay ahead of your

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David Callaghan, CEO at MIT Ventures, believes that “MIT’s unique business

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as a 24-hour confidential helpline and qualified doctor, while also offering

valuable discounts for shopping and

L I FE STYLE on time, employee satisfaction

increases. Our consultants take the

pressure off the business owners by keeping on top of payroll legislation while reducing the time and costs

associated with payroll processing.

Pension schemes can also impact

staff loyalty, morale and productivity.

At present, 16% of Generation X’s and 12% of Millennials admit they won’t

be able to fund their preferred lifestyle in retirement. However, we strive

for a better retirement for all with

our tailor-made workplace pension solution that significantly reduces

the administrative burden of pension duties while ensuring compliance.

To ensure we offer value to our clients,

we continuously review and update our

services. Recently, we launched an addon Recognition service for rewarding and incentivising performance with

Amazon vouchers, and we introduced a

supplementary Online Learning platform, where staff can access +45 courses for leisure purchases. Staff can make use

of a great selection of tools that have a tangible effect on their lives.”

We take a holistic approach to

maintaining employee wellbeing

and positive workplace cultures as we believe that the health of the

workforce is the health of a business.

During the pandemic, employees

have experienced higher levels of stress. Indeed, since the onset of

the COVID-19, calls to our free EAP helpline have soared, underlining

that it’s more important than ever to support employees’ mental health.

Martin Adams, Client Director at MIT, adds that “Being able to empower employers to give life-enhancing

benefits to their staff is by far the best part of my job. The facts speak for

themselves. Our employee benefits

improve motivation and reduce staff

turnover because you have provided value to their daily life.”

Our high-quality services that boost

productivity, engagement and growth also include targeted business

solutions for back-office operations, which are essentially the backbone

of a company. We provide a trusted and talented team to handle and enhance payroll processing and

pensions administration. Through our partnership with Holly Blue

Employment Law, our clients gain

access to legal specialists, allowing them to concentrate on strategic business objectives.

professional development.

Our range of employee benefits is a

genuine game-changer for providing employees with a better quality of

life. By offering a complete package of Lifestyle Benefits, Business

Protection, Workplace Pensions,

and Payroll Consultancy, we engage employees and resolve business

challenges. Want to see MIT in action?

Schedule a demo and learn how MIT can motivate your people, inspire

workplace innovation, and transform your business.

T: 0800 211 8709

E: ee@mitventures.co.uk

At the core of employee engagement are relationships built on trust and a positive work environment. Payroll directly impacts the employee

experience every payday. When

payments are accurate and delivered

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 85

WI N E OF T H E MON TH

County Business Club Wine of the Month August 2021 Fitz Sparkling White Wine £19

Fitz wine is made locally in Worthing

using the same method as made Italian Prosecco, providing a fresher style

of English sparkling wine with a more

affordable price tag of around £20. The wine makers also enhance the flavour of the wine by aging longer giving it a

longer finish more becoming of a brut style wine. Ideal as an aperitif for any party or celebration.

On the nose the wine has delicate floral notes with Elderflower and

Honeysuckle. The palate is well balanced and has flavours of Green apple,

86 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Stone fruit, Citrus alongside the Floral

notes experienced on the nose. A fine

persistent mousse akin to Crémant sets it aside from other Charmat production and

it has a unique depth and complexity. The wine is crisp and refreshing and has good length and a clean finish.

The South East of England and Sussex in particular are leading the way in sparkling wine production and will compete head to head with many

leading Champagnes. Why not try some of our local wines for home BBQ’s and for those special occasions .

Michael Yeoman,

brightonandhovewineclub.co.uk Michael Yeoman owns Brighton and Hove Wine Club and also creates a

range of Sussex spirits using the pomace from English wine production. He

specialises in working with small batch wine producers in and around Sussex and the South Downs.

SBT ASK THE EXPERT

RAISING YOUR PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

BY STEPHANIE PRIOR

“I GET TO” NOT “I’VE GOT TO”

BY JAMES LAMBERT

SBT ASK THE EXPERT SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 87

AS K T H E E X PE RT

Raising your Professional Profile If you’re a new business or a professional looking to gain more business or expand your networks, you may be thinking about how to raise your professional profile.

As the world

Ask the Expert

becomes more susceptible to

technology, there is

more need than ever

for professionals to consider how to raise profiles on platforms.

The thought of putting yourself out there can be a little daunting. You may be

questioning the potential cost and return on investment, time required outside

of your working schedule, knowing the right people or having confidence to share your opinion or expertise.

This article will explore some of these

questions alongside some reassurance and some useful tips to consider when your goal is to stand out in

your specialism. Here are 6 things

to consider when trying to raise your professional profile:

88 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

1. Content

local and national publishers such

expertise and communicate to your

news websites, radio stations, TV

is through content. If you are working

fantastic platforms in Sussex for

your content on your website, LinkedIn,

to. Some of these include Latest TV,

use at least one image in your article,

Absolute Magazine, The Argus, Brighton

One of the best ways to share your

as magazine editors, news reporters,

audience (especially during a pandemic)

management, etc. There are some

to a small budget, start with sharing

businesses and individuals to reach out

Facebook, and Twitter. If possible,

BBC Sussex, Sussex Business Times,

which you could additionally feature on

& Hove News, Gaydio, and many more.

your profile. If you don’t have a website,

You will not always get a response

LinkedIn articles and sharing content with

with content. At times, you content may

Adobe Spark have great features to free

you have to keep trying. It is a numbers

Instagram, with a link to the content on you can start by sharing content via

immediately as they are usually inundated

publishers. Platforms such as Canva and

not in keeping with their agenda, but

and cost effective image tools for your

game… what do you have to lose!

content and social media profiles.

2. PR Contacts

Whenever possible, be agile with your

content – write or create content that is

Create a PR list of contacts to send

topical, current and trending. This can be

content to publishers. This could include

and increase engagement. To support

your content to and sending regular

a great way to connect with new people

ASK T H E E XPE RT

this, use keywords and hashtags to get involved in leading conversations.

Citing factual statistics from relevant websites as well as the expertise

of specialists, or collaborating on

podcasts and other forms of content,

can be a great way to connect with key

audiences. Exploring ways in which you can support individuals and businesses (however big or small) through content can support building and maintaining

good professional relationships. When liking, sharing or promoting content of

others, they are more likely to return the favour and remember you!

3. Communications

This is a skill that so many take

for granted in terms of customer service as well as business development.

Sometimes the simplest of things,

such as responding to a comment, call, email, or a follow back can be a strong way to build on engagement, support,

feedback and business too. Whenever it

is possible, take the time to engage with others – not only will you come across

more human, but many ignore this, and

thus how you communicate, could help

you stand out against your competition.

4. Social Media Profiles

Keep your social media profiles up to

date and post whenever possible. Try

not to be a grey square - Make sure you have a good quality image of yourself set on your profile pages. Consider

using an image that best reflects how

you want your audience to see you. On

LinkedIn, make sure your key content is set as ‘features’ on your profile, so they are visible and accessible to those who view and explore your profile page.

5. Networking

Sussex holds a range of fantastic

networks for all types of businesses

and individuals. Some of these include, Brighton Business Breakfast Club, The

Network My Club, County Business Clubs

Community, Consortium Ladies Lunch Club, Property Professionals Lunch,

Bridging Change, Platinum Business

Group, The Boundary Club, Brighton

WOC, BNI and many more. There is never

enough time to attend all events, so check out their websites and select those that

suit your schedule. The more you attend, the more you become familiar with key connections and vis-versa.

If the event provides an attendee list

ahead of the event, research the list and identify those who you would be keen to engage with. Never make this too

obvious at an event! Be friendly and get to know as many people as possible as the world is a small place – you never

know who knows who and how someone could be of service for you in the future.

Speaking at networking events is a great way of introducing yourself to everyone

in the room. A lot of events will plan their speaker schedule a year in advance but not all. It is worth making contact and

presenting your expertise as it could be a

fit for an existing agenda or will help event organisers consider you for future events.

6. Charity Work

Engaging and supporting local charities is another way to meet other like-

minded professionals while actively

supporting a worthy cause. Many local charities can provide you PR, photos,

connections and memories to be made from supporting them. There are many fantastic organisations that could

provide you with some great events, activities and initiatives to consider.

Some Sussex based charities include The Starr Trust, RISE, The Rocking

Horse Children’s Charity, MIND, The Dame Vera Lynne Trust, The Open

Minds Project, The Martletts, Chailey Heritage Foundation, Chestnut Tree

House and many more. Many charities

have struggled to raise funds during the pandemic, so there is no better time to engage and give back if you can.

All of the above are cost effective ways to raise your professional profile. It provides a great opportunity to reflect on yourself too – your achievements and expertise,

while striving for new goals. Profile raising can take time, so don’t give up at the

initial hurdles. Be persistent, tenacious

and flexible as much as possible. Raising

your profile supports career opportunities as well as business development and

marketing, so it is never a waste to invest time in you.

Stephanie Prior Business Development & Marketing Manager Healys LLP

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 89

AS K T H E E X PE RT

“I get to” not “I’ve got to” I hope all of you reading or listening to this are already feeling motivated and positive about your lives but perhaps you’re not.

Either way, I’d like

Ask the Expert

to share something with you today

that illustrates how beneficial the kind

of life “tools” I share with my coaching clients can be for everyone.

It involves simply making one small

change in the way you think about your daily activities. In fact, it’s just a matter of substituting one word with another.

Something this simple may sound as if it could make no significant difference

to your life. We are so used to thinking

that improvements come about through struggle. However, I encourage you to

just try this one small change in your life

and then experience the difference in your mental attitude and state of wellbeing.

This is a shift in your inner state of mind that can begin as soon as you wake up

each morning. Just try it: Instead of “I’ve got to go to the gym today” try “I get to

go to the gym today;” or “I get to go back

to work now” as

opposed to “I’ve

got to go back to work now.” Just

think of something you are currently

feeling pressurised by and switch it around.

What we tell

ourselves about what we do

each day deeply impacts our

state of mind

and our mood.

This simple shift, replacing one

little word with

another, can make the most intense change in your perspective. It is the

most life-altering realisation you can

have as it can be applied to absolutely everything that you do. It transformed

my own life and I propose it can do the same for you.

Start replacing “I’ve got to” with “I

get to.” Then just feel the change. It’s all about the incredible realisation,

sometimes so deeply buried that we actually forget it, that in reality, we

are making choices. So often we can

forget this incredible fact and in doing so, we can end up feeling oppressed

by our own lives rather than active and purposeful creators of them.

Real wealth, meaningful wealth, is not James Lambert

90 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

truth is that you do get to make choices every minute of every day.

In my own life I discovered that how we think about things governs our entire

outlook on life and consequently, how

we feel. So by making a change in our

thinking we change our whole relationship to our lives and everything in them.

That’s why I combine my work as a

Personal Trainer with Life Coaching and high performance mentoring,

as well as offering both disciplines separately. When Mind and Body

come together and work together

harmoniously in an integrated way we

can then realise the untapped potential within ourselves and often far surpass our previous expectations.

about adding to your bank balance -

Take care and live with purpose!

being able to choose and the amazing

James Lambert

although we all like to do that - it’s about

ASK T H E E XPE RT

CONNECTING LOCAL BUSINESSES

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www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 91

digital marketing with meaning

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