Sussex Business Times - Issue 405 2016

SBT SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

THE LEGAL

500

THE LEGAL 500 UK EXPLAINS MORE ABOUT KENT AND SUSSEX LAW FIRMS

ALTERNATIVE

STAFF PARTIES

FOR CHRISTMAS 2016

+

TECH COMPANIES

SBT TURNS TO INVESTIGATE THE DIGITAL ECONOMY FRONT ON A MORE LOCAL LEVEL

BRITISH AIRWAYS i360:

A VENUE LIKE NO OTHER

IF YOUR BUSINESS CLIENTS, TEAM OR NETWORKING GROUP ARE LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION THEN TAKE THEM TO BRITISH AIRWAYS i360 IN BRIGHTON, WHERE SWEEPING SEASCAPES AND INNOVATIVE ENGINEERING WILL FEED THEIR CONVERSATIONS AND BREATHE FRESH AIR INTO YOUR EVENT SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

OCTOBER 2016 ISSUE 405

FREE

Basepoint has it covered!

...your office can grow with your business... speak to us for current availability.

With 31 Centres throughout the Midlands, Wales and South of England, locate your nearest centre at basepoint.co.uk to find out how we can help you support your business.

Crawley

Haywards Heath

Newhaven

Shoreham

01293 817721

01444 849250

01273 615090

01273 467585

2 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

basepoint.co.uk basepoint.co.uk

SBTWelcome MEET THE TEAM

Lee Mansfield, Managing Director/ Publisher

Simon Skinner, Clare Fermor, Group Director/Editor Operation Director

Jenny Ardagh, Deputy Editor

Thomas Allen, Features Editor

Lou Dobson, Sales

Harriet Weston, Production Manager

Elliott Mansfield, Sales

Jess Saunders, Features Editor

Geoff Diamond, Sales

Amy Watson, Production Designer

John Shaw, CEO, Sea Change Sussex

Sophie Shepherd, Christina Ewbank, Sales Manager, ACES Facilitator British Airways i360

In the September issue, we gave a run down of our top fine dining venues for the perfect employee Christmas meal, and to keep the inspiration flowing, in this edition we provide you with our recommended alternative Christmas party ideas for the more adventurous teams of employees out there, looking for a fun and action-packed festive do.

Following on from last month’s feature which focused on the ways in which the UK is lagging behind on the digital economy front, and this time around SBT investigates on a much more local level by taking a look at the city of Brighton as a digital hub – an informative read with some interesting statistics and comments from Brighton-based tech companies.

Elsewhere in this issue, we take a detailed look at Lewes and its upcoming developments - particularly that of the North Street Quarter - and how this will benefit the town’s local economy and residents.

CONTRIBUTORS

David Bywater, Senior Partner for KPMG’s South East office

So summer is officially over – what an amazing summer it was too! – and as we attempt to adapt to the sudden change and settle into winter, Sussex Business Times jumps on last issue’s bandwagon, preparing our devoted readers for the festive period.

Daniel Grainge, Tax Partner, Spofforths

Sebastian Burnside, Senior Economist, NatWest

Also, for this month’s hotel review, Sussex Business Times lapped up a one-night-only stay at Brighton’s luxurious The Charm hotel, in addition to a delectable lunch at Drakes, right in the heart of the beautiful city of Brighton.

We hope you enjoy your October read!

Jenny Ardagh Deputy Editor

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3

SBTContents

Issue 405

SBT

OCTOBER 2016 ISSUE 405

FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

THE LEGAL

500

THE LEGAL 500 UK EXPLAINS MORE ABOUT KENT AND SUSSEX LAW FIRMS

ALTERNATIVE

STAFF PARTIES

FOR CHRISTMAS 2016

+

TECH COMPANIES

SBT TURNS TO INVESTIGATE THE DIGITAL ECONOMY FRONT ON A MORE LOCAL LEVEL

BRITISH AIRWAYS i360:

A VENUE LIKE NO OTHER

IF YOUR BUSINESS CLIENTS, TEAM OR NETWORKING GROUP ARE LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION THEN TAKE THEM TO BRITISH AIRWAYS i360 IN BRIGHTON, WHERE SWEEPING SEASCAPES AND INNOVATIVE ENGINEERING WILL FEED THEIR CONVERSATIONS AND BREATHE FRESH AIR INTO YOUR EVENT SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

Cover: British Airways i360 britishairwaysi360.com

Managing Director/Publisher: Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 007 Group Director/Editor: Simon Skinner simon@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 017 Operations Director: Clare Fermor clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 007 Sales: Lou Dobson lou@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 007 Elliott Mansfield elliott@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 012 Geoff Diamond geoff@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 013 Deputy Editor: Jenny Ardagh jenny@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 011 Features Editor: Jess Saunders jess@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819019 Production Manager: Harriet Weston harriet@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 010 Production Designer: Amy Watson amy@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 018 Subscriptions: Linda Grace linda@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 015

Published by Life Media Group, Unit1, Swan Barn Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY Printed by Berforts 17 Burgess Road, Ivyhouse Lane Hastings, East Sussex, TN35 4NR 01424 722733 www.berforts.co.uk

All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Sussex Business Times Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of Life Media Group 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 Life Media Group LTD 2016 ©

4 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

06 10 12 14 20 31 36 42 48 52 54 62 66

News

View the latest local and national business headlines.

Spending it

SBT picks some great christmas gifts to buy for your favourite clients.

Sussex Events

Sussex Business Times looks into the upcoming annual Lloyds Bank National Business Awards, recognising and rewarding the best of great British business across the country.

Legal 500

SBT looks on a more local level and the high flying law firms that ranked highly in 2016 for Sussex.

Digital Technology

This month, SBT turns to investigate the digital economy front on a more local level, looking at the South East’s most prevalent digital hub – the city of Brighton.

Alternative Staff Parties for Christmas 2016

SBT suggests alternative Christmas party ideas to last issue’s fine dining recommendations.

Cover Feature: British Airways i360

British Airways i360 will be an experience like no other, offering unrivaled 26 mile views of the south coast.

Lewes Developments

Sussex Business Times takes a look at the town of Lewes, its upcoming developments and the benefits this will have on the local economy.

Tried and Tested in Sussex

Title Manager, Elliott Mansfield takes to Kemp Town to review the newest addition to the Brighton boutique hotel scene, The Charm, whilst MD, Lee Mansfield has lunch at The Restaurant At Drakes in Brighton.

Chamber News

All the latest news and events from ACES.

Motoring

Simon Skinner tests drives two new cars; The MG GS and Maserati Quattroporte.

Ask the Experts

Local Sussex business experts advice on relevant issues.

Made in Sussex

This month’s home-grown hero is Steamer Trading.

5

“EXTREMELY COMPETITIVE OPTION FOR DEVELOPING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS”

M L I F / Y H P A R G O T PHO S E C I V R E S D N A O I STUD Studio and services include: • Unbeatable rates • Private/dry hire or full creative team available • Corporate films on location or studio based • Editing suite will full Adobe Creative Cloud • Complete team on hand to assist • Production team on site • Comprehensive kit list • Make up/changing area for styling • Free Wifi • Lounge area with refreshment facilities & fridge • Male/female toilets • Studio and equipment rental or full creative team available

SHOOTING PORTRAITS, FAMILIES, PETS, PRODUCTS LARGE AND SMALL, OR FOR PRIVATE RENTAL

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 5

Contact the team at Life Studios to discuss your requirements or simply to enquire about hourly or day rates for professional hire: 01323 819007 or email simon@lifemediagroup.co.uk

SBTLocal News Peter Orpen Retires with BA i360 Flight, Leaving AVT Connect with a 360 View

After a successful 40 years, Director and Founder of AVT Connect, Peter Orpen has retired. Influential in the company’s evolution from traditional AV supplier to what is now a global provider for the latest interactive events, Peter has been a constant presence in a fast-changing landscape.

Peter left with a sunset flight on the BA i360 after witnessing its development from his office window in Brighton.

Summing up his time at AVT Connect, Peter commented: “What a journey! I’m delighted to leave the senior management and company in such a strong position, responsive to meet the challenges and demands of today’s meetings and technology environment”.

Eastbourne Welcomes Sir Geoff Hurst at Charity Lunch 1996 World Cup footballing legend attended the Best of British event at The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne, raising money for children’s charity, Rockinghorse in September.

The afternoon fundraiser – sponsored by Rix & Kay Solicitors welcomed 200 people; treated to a three-course meal, followed by a talk from Sir Geoff Hurst himself, Guests raised over £10,000 for Rockinghorse who will be celebrating their 50th anniversary next year.

Funds raised at the event will be donated towards The Bungalow children’s centre on Sorrell Drive in Eastbourne town – a centre that provides residential care for children with autistic spectrum disorders and severe physical disabilities, giving help and support to youngsters who are not able to live with their families.

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Digital Deal Delivers Strength and Resilience Two Brighton digital power-houses have agreed on a deal that will see Cobb Digital nearly double in size and Leapfrogg re-focus its energies on strategic advice for the retail sector.

The deal sees six digital professionals and a group of retail clients move from Leapfrogg to Cobb Digital. The new changes were launched on Thursday 1st September and both companies said the deal would allow them to offer improved services to clients.

Managing Director of Cobb Digital, James Dempster, said: “Thanks to the great work provided by my team, we’ve recently moved into larger premises at New England House, Brighton, with room for growth over

the coming years,” James said: “As soon as we were approached about a possible link-up with Leapfrogg, we knew this was the right deal for us. It is a perfect match for our company and the combined skill sets of the team are already delivering even better results and consultancy for our combined portfolio.”

Training and Development is Top of the Agenda For CRL as it Appoints New Learning and Development Officer Insurance specialist, CRL has invested in the training and development of its staff with the appointment of new Learning and Development Officer, Zoe Newman.

Zoe has joined to support CRL’s growth plans by providing a longlasting learning development strategy for the company’s workforce. Zoe brings with her a stream of expertise to the new role having previously spent 11 years

working in various positions in call centres, insurance and construction.

Zoe Newman commented on her new job role: “In joining CRL I am able to combine my previous work experience in construction, insurance and people management. I’ll be working to explore and identify the learning needs of the business to get a holistic view of the training and development priorities in the CRL way.

Crunch Leaps To 72nd Place in Accountancy Age Top 50+50 Micro-business specialist firm continues to grow as it jumps to 72nd place in prestigious Accountancy Age 50+50 list Crunch has been named the 6th fastest growing accountants in the UK, according to Accountancy Age’s annual Top 50+50 report. Founded just over seven years ago by entrepreneur and CEO, Darren Fell and Accountancy Director, Steve Crouch, Crunch now supports more than 9,000 freelancers, contractors and micro-businesses with accounting, mortgages, insurance and other services.

Crunch’s Head of Policy and Public

Affairs, Jason Kitcat, commented: “Accountancy Age’s Top 50+50 is the ultimate measure of success in the accountancy industry. Reaching 72nd place, without additional external funders or merging with other firms, shows just how massive the past year has been for Crunch.”

SBTLocal News Regional Law Firm Helping Staff to Grow Regional law firm, Coffin Mew has launched its training programme, Aspire II, at the Goodwood Hotel in West Sussex which, over the next five months, will equip the firm’s emloyees with tools to increase performance and wellbeing, build industry knowledge and develop leadership skills.

Aspire II follows last year’s Aspire programme, which welcomed 13 new people from Coffin Mew offices across Brighton, Southampton and Porstmouth,

all of whom where identified as having high potential and were nominated to take part by their team leaders.

Coffin Mew’s Managing parnter, Miles Brown, commented: We are committed to bringing on board new graduate trainees and training them to become some of the best lawyers in the county, and are proud to have partners that have worked for us for over 30 years!”

Accolade for Export Business of the Year at the Chamber Business Awards Uckfield-based company that manufactures and distributes scientific instruments for electrophysiology and imaging, Scientifica has been named as one of the winners in the southern region heats of the Chamber Business Awards.

Now in its 13th year, the awards recognise and pays tribute to the roles local businesses play in driving and improving the UK economy. Winner of The Export Business of the Year award, Scientifica will represent the southern

region in the national finals, due to take place in London in November.

Chief Executive of Sussex Chamber of Commerce, Ana Christie commented: “It is fantastic news that one of our Chamber members, Scientifica, has received the south regional award for Export Business of the Year. I wish them all the very best of luck in the finals in November.”

12 Years of Outstanding Young Communicators at Midnight For the 12th year running, a member of the Brightonbased Midnight team has been shortlisted for the Outstanding Young Communicator award at the annual CIPR PRide Awards – South of England and the Channel Islands region, for which the winners will be announced in Bristol on November 25th.

Senior Account Executive, Tommy Handley steps up to take his place in the finals, but this is his second honour of the year, as he captains the Midnight Runners – the Firmballs Falmer league football champions 2016.

Celebrating its 21st year, Midnight has also been shortlisted for the best Corporate and Business Communications Campaign for its previous work with law firm, Thomas Eggar. Managing Director of Midnight, Caraline Brown commented: “I am a strong believer in giving staff excellent training, nurturing their abilities and giving them free reign to find their forte. That’s what we do at Midnight and it is consistently paying dividends, for both our clients and employees.”

RSM Appoints First Indirect Tax Director in Gatwick RSM in Gatwick has appointed its first indirect Tax Director, Justine McInnes. Justine is a qualified solicitor and chartered tax adviser and has had almost 20 years experience in working with indirect tax – a large amount of her time spent in Big 4 firms, working with large corporate clients.

Not only does she have experience in many areas of indirect tax, she has particular expertise in the financial services sector as well as in the area of indirect tax litigation and dispute resolution.

Justine specialises in insurance premium tax as well as VAT and has

experience in advising on other indirect taxes such as customs and excise duties and environmental taxes.

The Office Managing Partner at RSM in Gatwick commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Justine to the team. She will play a key role in assisting our current clients to maximise their indirect tax opportunities, and her experience should also prove invaluable to large corporates within the Gatwick Diamond.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 7

SBTNational News British Music Industry Worth £4 Billion to UK Economy

It has been revealed that the British music industry contributed £4.1 billion to the UK economy last year, and most of that came from music exports – worth £2.2 billion over the course of the year due to the overseas success of music artists such as Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran and Adele.

One in six of all artist albums sold anywhere across the globe in 2015 came from UK artists, while half of the year’s top selling albums were made by British singers. The report also found that while adapting to the new ways people are consuming their music has been a challenge for the UK industry, the growth of online streaming over the past few years has made up for declines elsewhere in the market.

Sites such as Tidal, Apple Music and Spotify have provided the UK with a considerable boost to the digital music sector throughout 2015, with paid services valued at £251 million.

University be Increased ShoppingFees On to Mobile To TopAgain £53bn

By 2024 Universities are yet again planning to

increase tuition fees to £9,250, and almost all have been approved to charge the higher fees from 2017-2018 as the new upper limit. However, more than 30 UK universities have set this as their minimum possible increasing costs for current students as well as those starting this year – something the University of Exeter has already announced and confirmed.

John Pugh, Liberal Democrat Education Spokesman said students are being treated like ‘cash cows’, commenting: “Students are being treated like cash cows and time and time again, the universities, backed by Government, ask for more. “

As a result of this, Universities will spend £834m on schemes to widen access to higher education – a 10% increase on 2016-2017 – including a £171m on outreach projects such as summer schools and events as a way of encouraging applications. £408m will be spent on bursaries and fee waivers.

UK Growth Expectations Downgraded After Brexit The British Chamber of Commerce has released its first economic prediction since the EU referendum result and has downgraded its expectations of the country’s GDP over the next three years.

The national body, which publishes forecasts every economic quarter, said it believes GDP will grow just 1.8% during the rest of this year – down from an expected 2.2% prior to the Brexit result. The BCC have also forecast growth of 1% in 2017, down from 2.3%, and 1.8% in 2018, down from 2.4%.

The cause for these decreasing statistics relate to weaker consumer spending and a substantial decrease in investment due to the uncertainty surrounding business after the EU referendum.

British Chamber of Commerce Head of Economics, Suren Thiru commented: “The downgrades to our growth forecast confirm that the UK economy is set to enter a turbulent period, with growth expected to weaken materially in the near term.”

Rolls-Royce PLC’s Warren East Warns Government not to Allow the UK Defence Industry to Wither on the Vine In an interview with The Manufacturer magazine, Warren East cautioned that continued pressure on the UK defence budget could lead to Rolls-Royce reducing the investment it makes in its highly-skilled defence workforce, with the ultimate possibility of the company pulling out of UK defence work altogether.

His warning on defence comes after the new Single Source Regulations Office said Rolls-Royce had overstated some costs in a £70m engine support contract for the Hawk trainer, and ordered

8 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

reductions. Warren told The Manufacturer that while taxpayers’ money must be spent wisely, the government has to be careful not to allow penny-pinching to start eating into Rolls-Royce profits.

“If we don’t make sufficient profit on doing defence work then we are not going to invest in the skills necessary to deliver a good solution, and ultimately

we’ll end up withdrawing from it.”

He also said the government must be extremely careful to sustain its levels of investment in R&D – the government currently invests £1 for every £17 by Rolls-Royce - or risk his company reducing its UK presence.

“The government money is very useful, but there are governments around the world who are very keen to support us, If there are governments elsewhere that are able to help us get a better result, then we have to pay some attention to that.”

N p p

No matter your passion, we have the purrrfect course for you...

Childhood Studies, Health & Technology

English, Humanities & Languages

Bexhill

Sports Science & Public Services

College

ACTION

Business, IT & Social Sciences

Creative & Performing Arts

Science & Maths www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 9

bexhill6thformcollege

@BexhillCollege

bexhillcollege

www.bexhillcollege.ac.uk

1

2

SBG SBT Gift GuideSBC SBn SBD SuSSex BuSineSS Group

4

3

SuSSex BuSineSS TiMeS

SuSSex BuS

5

SuSSex BuSineSS neTworkinG

SuSSex BuSineSS DinerS

10 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

6

8 7

11

10

9

12 13 1. Debenhams Luxury hamper, £60, www.debenhams.com - 2. Gluten Free Hamper, £37, www.thegreatgiftcompany.co.uk 3. Stag Bottle Opener Vintage Gold, £21, www.joannawood.co.uk - 4. Black Faux Fur Trim Leather Gloves, £42, www.oliverbonas. com - 5. XJ Shooting stars perfume collection, Prices range from £135 - £30,000, www.xerjoff.com - 6. Winter Wondermint Tea, £3.99, www.londontea.co.uk - 7. Virginia Hayward Luxury Christmas Hamper, £36.95, www.cuckooland.com - 8. Highland Chocolatier Gourmet Chocolate Hamper, £54.95, www.highlandchocolatier.com - 9. VOYA Essentials Christmas Stocking Fillers, Essential Mitts 50ml Hand Cream, £17.00, Essential Lips, Lemon and Lime Lip Balm, £10.50, Essential Lips Vanilla and Peppermint Lip Balm, £10.50, www.voya.ie - 10, Yankee Candle 2 medium jar gift set, £29.99, www.yankeecandle.co.uk 11. The Liqueur Rack, £31.59, www.demijohn.co.uk - 12. Baylis & Harding Fuzzy Duck Luxury Christmas Hamper, £40, www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 11 www.amazon.co.uk - 13. Neom - Real Luxury Collection Gift Set, £100, www.amara.com

Money Matters

Lloyds Bank National Business Awards 2016

Sussex Business Times looks into the upcoming annual Lloyds Bank National Business Awards, recognising and rewarding the best of great British business across the country

The Lloyds Bank National Business Awards, now in Sussex its 15th year, has Events released its 2016 shortlist, recognising the best of British businesses and rewarding excellence across all business sectors in the UK. Set to take place at Grosvenor House Hotel, London on Tuesday 15th November, the Lloyds Bank National Business Awards also aims to highlight the importance of business networking and rewards in order to grow, develop and nurture businesses across the country.

According to the Centre for Entrepreneurs, over 608,000 businesses were started in the UK in 2015, in comparison to 581,173 the year before and around 526,400 in 2013, proving

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

that more British people than ever are deciding to strike out on their own and start their own company. Additionally, figures from 2000 UK adults from the Lloyds Bank National Business Awards stated that over one third (38%) of UK residents would like to run their own business, whilst 17% admitted they would not know where to start and 14% said they believed it would be too much of a risk.

The awards host a range of categories suited for all successful UK organisations, whether they are public or private, big or small. Award winners in previous years have been anything from larger private and public companies to budding entrepreneurial businesses, promising start-ups and established SMEs. There are 18 categories in total with a main focus on achievements over the last

year-and-a-half, and with a wide range of categories, the ceremony is able to highlight outstanding examples in all business areas. Additionally, three new categories have been added to this year’s event.

This year’s award categories include: • The Customer Focus Award • The Lloyds Bank Business of the Year • The Howard Kennedy Employer of the Year • The QBE Insurance New Exporter of the Year Award • The Vonage Business Enabler of the Year • The Lloyds Bank Small to Medium Sized Business of the Year • The Innovation Award • The Grichan Partnership Sustainable Business Award • The Amazon Digital Business of the Year

Sussex Events

• The Smith & Williamson Scale-up Business of the Year (new) • The Lloyds Bank Positive Social Impact Award (new) • The Duke of York New Entrepreneur of the Year • The Duke of York Award for University Entrepreneurship • The Business Award for Arts & Creative Services (new) • Inflexion Entrepreneur of the Year • The Lloyds Bank Mid-market Business of the Year • Ashridge Executive Education Leader of the Year Award • The Excellence in Business Award Just some of last year’s victorious winners include: CEO of EasyJet, Carolyn McCall; Chairman of Berkeley Group, Tony Pidgley; CBE New Entrepreneur of the Year, Joe Carnell; and The Body Coach, Joe Wicks. However, making it into this year’s shortlist are a variety of different UK brands, all with a different audience and purpose. Just some of the nominated companies include Hotel Chocolat, Handmade Burger Co., OVO Energy, Missguided, Zopa and many, many more.

For the full Lloyds Bank National Business Awards shortlist, visit www.nationalbusinessawards.co.uk/ finalists-2016.

With regards to the panel, the National Business Awards set up an Advisory Board back in 2010, created to ‘enhance the strategic direction of the National Business Awards programme.’

The Advisory Board consists of selected representatives from the public, private and third sector, and aims to share their knowledge on business trends and strategies that should be demonstrated through the National Business Award categories and winners. As well as the National Business Awards’ Advisory Board, there will be a range of judges for each award category, consisting of over 75 leading industry professionals, and set to bring general industry knowledge as well as skills specific to the different award categories. The panel of judges

come from a variety of companies, from expert consultancies to previous winners and well-known retailers. Just some of these judges include: Andrew McMillan, Director at Engaging Services; Chairmain at AES Seal Engineering Ltd., Hamdi Conger; Sarah Wood, Co-Founder of Unruly; Director of Seller Services at Amazon, Simon Johnson; Julie Devonshire, Director of the Entrepreneurship Institute at King’s College London; and many more.

Programme Director of the National Business Awards, Tom Broughton said of the upcoming event: “We are delighted to see the return of the Lloyds Bank National Business Awards for its 15th consecutive year. As ever, we seek to recognise and celebrate the quality of diversity of businesses driving economic growth in the UK, and with brand new categories added this year, our awards are applicable to more businesses than ever before.”

Why not join the 1,200 other business leaders, media representatives and entrepreneurs for the chance to meet,

“We seek to recognise and celebrate the quality of diversity of businesses driving economic growth in the UK”

exchange advice and information and celebrate with the UK’s top business leaders and finalists? Whether you’re planning on attending by yourself or with your colleagues or friends, the National Business Awards can cater to your needs with their range of different packages.

Individual seats are £350 plus VAT and tables seating groups of 10 people cost £3,200 plus VAT – both packages including champagne on arrival, a 5-star 3-course meal, tea, coffee and petit four, and tuxedo and dress hire discount, as well as the opportunity to attend the postevent party. The VIP table, also seating 10 guests and costing £5,500 plus VAT, includes all features of the standard table plus table positioning near the stage with sponsors and finalists, a separate VIP area at the drinks bar, 5 bottles of wine and 2 bottles of champagne for your table, meet and greet photo opportunities with special guests and a reserved table at the Red Bar After Party.

The Lloyds Bank National Business Awards will take place at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London W1 at 6:30pm onwards on Tuesday 15th November, so get your glad rags on!

For more information visit www.nationalbusinessawards.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

The Legal

500

2016

The South East region shines in the 29th year of The Legal 500, and SBT looks on a more local level and the high flying law firms that ranked highly in 2016 for Sussex

“The Legal 500, now in its 29th year, is a comprehensive research programme that’s revised and updated every year to bring the most up-todate vision of the global legal market”

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

For those readers who aren’t entirely sure, The Legal 500, Law now in its 29th year, is a comprehensive research programme that’s revised and updated every year to bring the most upto-date vision of the global legal market.

It provides an independent and unbiased commentary on the UK’s leading law firms and the lawyers who work there, and has been the go-to essential guide for the buyers of legal services across the UK since its implementation.

In 2016, The Legal 500 conducted over 250,000 client interviews, asking for feedback on the lawyers they instruct.

Interviews were conducted, as they are every year, with General Counsel, Finance Directors, Managing Directors and the owners of businesses across the country in order to assess the strengths of law firms in over 100 jurisdictions.

In addition, law firms and barristers’ chambers are invited to provide detailed written submissions that include the size of the specialist teams in their firms, key clients and the work they have done for them over the past 12 months. This approach gives us a standard level and quality of data, which in turn, enables us to benchmark legal service providers with

more precision and assurance.

The Legal 500 rankings are based on a series of criteria, allowing a highlighted view of the practice area teams who are providing the most cutting edge and innovative advice to corporate counsel.

Considerations for the Legal 500 include: • The most prestigious clients; • Individuals with credibility with their clients; • In-depth capabilities beyond the star partners; • Technical ability to conduct the most complex work; • Capacity for large transactions; • Market share; • Historical track record on deals and cases; • Evidence of investment for the future of a practice area; • Progress made on winning new work; • Strength in associated practice areas; • Wider reputation in market; • Capacity to handle all client

requirements; • Commitment to IT and using IT to improve client service; and • Client feedback.

As a Sussex focused title, we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t highlight some of our very own local law firms, who have been included in the latest

Legal

the calendar year: the first with GuildfordLegal 500 and praised for their legal based AWB Partnership, effective services. The Legal 500 South East from January, before its merger with chapter is broken down into the following longstanding London firm, Ross & Craig sub-regions: Thames Valley, Berkshire, Solicitors, which took effect in December Oxfordshire, M4/M40; Kent, Surrey, 2015. asb law LLP, a key name for Sussex; Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middlesex; banking and finance, services clients Hampshire; and Essex. Coverage of from its offices in Crawley, Sussex and the South East is either by region-wide Maidstone and is prominent in the region. practice areas or is narrowed down into Richard Pollins, the respective sub-regions.

Managing Partner Scrolling through the list, at DMH Stallard, any Sussex businessman “Any Sussex commented on the or woman can’t help but businessman or impact of The Legal 500 notice the inclusion of woman can’t help within the firm: “The many a top-tier Sussex but notice the law firm in almost every inclusion of many a annual publication has become sub- category. DMH top-tier Sussex law undoubtedly something of an event in Stallard, Adams & Remers, firm in almost every the legal calendar. That Coffin Mew, Irwin Mitchell, sub category” may have something Mayo Wynne Baxter, to do with the vanity Stevensdrakes, Rawlinson of the firms on the list, Butler, Rix & Kay, asb law, but more seriously, it provides detailed among many others made themselves information about practice areas and known across the board. Asb law was specialists within each firm to people and ranked tier 1 within Banking and Finance organisations with buying decisions to Law and Irwin Mitchell ranked tier 1 for make about legal services.

Corporate and Commercial Law, giving “I’m always pleased that our track a fantastic start in the commercial world record at DMH Stallard is recognised after its recent merger with Thomas and we are ranked so highly by the Eggar LLP. Legal 500 - when you consider that 2015 was a particularly busy year we’re competing with some very large for DMH Stallard LLP, with the firm international law firms it is obviously great completing two mergers at both ends of

for our reputation, not just in the south east, but right across the UK. That said, climbing the Legal 500 ‘chart’ is not something that we usually discuss in the context of our business planning. It’s a welcome outcome but not a primary business objective for us, which remains to provide exceptional service and a relevant product line to our clients.”

Equally, Coffin Mew has been widely commended in the 2016 Legal 500 rankings, recognising its work across 11 sectors, as well as highlighting 14 standout lawyers at the firm. Improving on its previous rankings, Coffin Mew is now one of the leading law firms in the South East for Clinical Negligence work, having been ranked in joint first place for 2016.

Miles Brown, Managing Partner at Coffin Mew commented: “Coffin Mew is thriving, as evidenced by our recent accolades and the highly talented lawyers we are proud to employ. It is very gratifying to see our work recognised by the Legal 500, and I look forward to seeing the firm and our lawyers continue to rise up the ranks for years to come.”

It’s certainly promising to see so many Sussex based law firms making The Legal 500 rankings, clearly delivering on such important aspects as client care in their given fields, providing a reputable service and making investments for the future.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

Money Matters Commercial Litigation: Kent, Surrey and Sussex:

Employment: Kent, Surrey and Sussex:

Personal tax, trusts and probate: Kent, Surrey, Sussex

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP (Guildford) Clyde & Co LLP (Guildford) Stevens & Bolton LLP (Guildford) DMH Stallard LLP (Gatwick) Irwin Mitchell (Crawley) asb law LLP (Crawley, Maidstone) Cripps LLP (Tunbridge Wells) Mundays LLP (Cobham) Rawlison Butler LLP (Crawley) TWM Solicitors LLP (Epsom, Guildford, Reigate, Wimbledon) Thomson Snell & Passmore (Greenhithe, Tunbridge Wells) Whitehead Monckton (Maidstone) Adams & Remers (Lewes) Barlow Robbins LLP (Guildford) Boddy Matthews Limited (Reigate Brachers Maidstone) Furley Page Solicitors (Canterbury) Mayo Wynne Baxter LLP (Brighton) Morrisons Solicitors LLP (Wimbledon, Woking)

asb law LLP (Crawley, Maidstone) Charles Russell Speechlys LLP (Guildford) Cripps LLP (Tunbridge Wells) DMH Stallard LLP (Gatwick) Mundays LLP (Cobham) Penningtons Manches LLP (Guildford) Stevens & Bolton LLP (Guildford) Barlow Robbins LLP (Guildford, Woking) Brachers (Maidstone) Furley Page Solicitors (Canterbury) Goodyear Blackie Herrington Solicitors (Elstead) Rawlison Butler LLP (Crawley) Sherrards Employment Law Solicitors (Albourne) Thomas Mansfield LLP (Croydon) Thomson Snell & Passmore (Tunbridge Wells, Greenhithe) Boddy Matthews Limited (Reigate) Clarkson Wright & Jakes (Orpington) Downs Solicitors LLP (Godalming) Irwin Mitchell (Crawley) Loch Employment Law (Tunbridge Wells) Martin Searle Solicitors (Brighton, Crawley, Eastbourne) Morrisons Solicitors LLP (Redhill) Rix & Kay Solicitors LLP (Uckfield, Brighton) TWM Solicitors LLP (Guildford) Thackray Williams LLP (Bromley)

Cripps LLP (Tunbridge Wells) Stevens & Bolton LLP (Guildford) Thomson Snell & Passmore (Tunbridge Wells) asb law LLP (Crawley, Maidstone) Adams & Remers (Lewes) Barlow Robbins LLP (Guildford, Godalming, Woking) Brachers (Maidstone) Charles Russell Speechlys LLP (Guildford) Coole Bevis LLP (Brighton, Horsham, Hove, Worthing) DMH Stallard LLP (Gatwick, Guildford Furley Page Solicitors Canterbury, Whitstable, Chatham) Morrisons Solicitors LLP (Redhill, Woking, Wimbledon, Camberley) Penningtons Manches LLP (Godalming) TWM Solicitors LLP (Cranleigh, Guildford, Reigate, Leatherhead) Batchelors Clarkson Wright & Jakes Griffith Smith Farrington Webb LLP Gullands Solicitors Herrington Carmichael LLP Irwin Mitchell Mundays LLP Rawlison Butler LLP Rix & Kay Solicitors LLP Thackray Williams LLP Warners Solicitors Whitehead Monckton

Family: Kent, Surrey, Sussex: Charles Russell Speechlys LLP (Guildford) Mundays LLP (Cobham) Thomson Snell & Passmore (Tunbridge Wells) asb law LLP (Crawley, Maidstone) Barlow Robbins LLP (Guildford, Woking, Goldalming) Brachers (Maidstone) Cripps LLP (Tunbridge Wells) Family Law Partners (Brighton) Jones Nickolds (Beckenham) Stevens & Bolton LLP (Guildford) TWM Solicitors LLP (Epsom, Guildford, Reigate, Wimbledon) Warners Solicitors (Tonbridge) Blackfords LLP (Woking) Morrisons Solicitors LLP (Redhill, Woking, Camberley, Wimbledon) Rawlison Butler LLP (Horsham, Crawley) Rix & Kay Solicitors LLP (Uckfield, Brighton) Stantons Solicitors (Gravesend Whitehead Monckton (Maidstone) Adler Fitzpatrick LLP (Kingston upon Thames) Boys & Maughan (Margate) Clarkson Wright & Jakes (Orpington) Coole Bevis LLP (Brighton, Horsham, Hove, Worthing) Dawson Hart (Uckfield) Downs Solicitors LLP (Dorking) Griffith Smith Farrington Webb LLP (Brighton) Gullands Solicitors (Maidstone) Mayo Wynne Baxter LLP (Brighton) McMillan Williams (Brighton, Sevenoaks, Wallington) Thackray Williams LLP (Bromley)

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Commercial property: Kent, Surrey, Sussex Clyde & Co LLP (Guildford) Cripps LLP (Tunbridge Wells) Mundays LLP (Cobham) Stevens & Bolton LLP (Guildford Thomson Snell & Passmore (Tunbridge Wells, Greenhithe) asb law LLP (Crawley, Maidstone) Barlow Robbins LLP (Woking, Guildford) Brachers (Maidstone) Charles Russell Speechlys LLP (Guildford) TWM Solicitors LLP (Guildford, Epsom, Reigate, Wimbledon) Adams & Remers (Lewes) Clarkson Wright & Jakes (Orpington) DMH Stallard LLP (Gatwick) Downs Solicitors LLP (Dorking, Godalming) Furley Page Solicitors (Canterbury) Hart Brown (Guildford) Herrington Carmichael LLP (Camberley) Irwin Mitchell (Crawley) Morrisons Solicitors LLP (Redhill, Woking, Wimbledon) Penningtons Manches LLP (Godalming, Guildford) Rawlison Butler LLP (Crawley) Rix & Kay Solicitors LLP (Uckfield, Brighton) Thackray Williams LLP (Bromley, West Wickham, Beckenham) Warners Solicitors (Tonbridge, Sevenoaks) Whitehead Monckton (Maidstone)

Corporate and commercial: Kent, Surrey, Sussex Clyde & Co LLP (Guildford) Cripps LLP (Kings Hill, Tunbridge Wells Irwin Mitchell Crawley) Stevens & Bolton LLP (Guildford) asb law LLP (Crawley, Maidstone) Charles Russell Speechlys LLP (Guildford) DMH Stallard LLP (Gatwick) Mundays LLP (Cobham) Penningtons Manches LLP (Godalming, Guildford) Rawlison Butler LLP (Crawley) Barlow Robbins LLP (Guildford, Woking) Thomson Snell & Passmore (Tunbridge Wells, Greenhithe) Brachers (Maidstone) Clarkson Wright & Jakes (Orpington) Furley Page Solicitors (Canterbury, Chatham) Goodyear Blackie Herrington (Solicitors Elstead) Morrisons Solicitors LLP (Redhill, Woking, Wimbledon) TWM Solicitors LLP (Guildford) Warners Solicitors (Sevenoaks, Tonbridge)

www.legal500.com

TO SUPPLY Spofforths part ofPROUD Kreston Reeves are the accounting partner to the

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

You Can Run But You Can’t Hide…But Some Try! Enforcement agent service – previously known as bailiffs, Penham Excel explains the ways in which tracing can make a big difference to your business I don’t need to highlight the pressures of life and Advertorial running a business day-to-day, but for many small to medium-sized businesses managing cash flow is a constant battle. The job of pursuing unpaid invoices is often pushed to one side and left on the “to do list” until it fails to make it on to the list at all.

One of the most frustrating situations for any business owner is a customer who absconds without settling their account.

Of course it would be remiss of anyone to suggest that all of those who abscond do so deliberately, but either way, investing time and energy into tracing a customer can be less than attractive. Knowing where to find reliable and trustworthy tracing services for relatively low volumes can be an issue and for many companies is not even a consideration.

One of the principal things we see when being asked to trace those who have failed to pay an invoice is inaccurate data, a wrong or incomplete name or address.

Being asked to trace, for example, Bob with a partial address and only a town or an area of a town to go on is stretching our tracing skills slightly, but, it does happen.

How can you limit the risk of an unsuccessful trace?

With any transaction that may involve

“In this world of improving technology and increased availability of data there is no reason to give up on an invoice that has failed to pay and may have moved” some form of credit, obtaining as much information on your customer as possible is vital. Full name or names of the senior personnel responsible for that business along with a full postal address and any

head office or associated addresses that may be useful further down the invoice recovery route is crucial. Obtaining a date of birth may not be appropriate for all types of business transactions but establishing a rough age of the customer can be a vital piece of information when tracing someone who has absconded.

It is not uncommon to find father and son living at the same address with the same forenames. Capturing other tiny bits of information from your customer can be very good for customer service and can make all the difference should that customer need tracing months down the line. Recording the partners and children’s names, especially adult children, can be useful during the tracing process to verify trace results or even to help locate missing parents.

There are many tracing companies out there and a quick google search will produce plenty of options and an array of charges, some costing over £50 for each successful trace. Most will operate on a “no win no fee” basis but being aware of how tracing works can help you make the best decisions. All data gathered from tracing software can typically be up to 10 weeks behind as it takes this long to filter down to the databases used. A company operating on a “no win no fee” basis will always give you a new address and aim to charge you, but what information genuinely constitutes as a new address or a full time residence?

Having spent a lot of hours tracing I can tell you without hesitation it is never

Call us on: 033 000 20705

18 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

Penham Excel

as simple as, are they living there?

Yes or no. If a trace result is showing your customer as paying utilities, has a mortgage, bank accounts and credit cards registered at the address and is showing on the electoral register, it is very likely this is their full time residence.

However, you could be paying full price for a new address that might only show a mobile phone account or a bank account that suggests they might be at the address, but I would suggest it is unlikely you will find them there.

“No win no fee” is by far the industry norm but if your trace provider can offer a set fee for all traces - whether they be successful or not - I think you’ll find the information you receive back would change.

There would be no incentive to offer a new address with weak evidence. There is no benefit to delivering false expectations and providing a new address with flimsy financial data.

We prefer to be honest by providing the evidence available and our opinion as

to the likelihood of residency. We then outline any remaining options which could include land registry checks, asset checks, home ownership and employment checks.

All of this data is vital to allow you to make an informed decision on whether

you instigate court proceedings, initiate enforcement or park the case for 6 – 8 months and retrace at a later date, as people’s circumstances do change.

Of course we assume tracing can only be used to find new addresses for those that abscond. We use our tracing department every day to verify an individual’s status at a given address by checking they are indeed conducting their financial affairs at this address.

In this world of improving technology and increased availability of data, there is no reason to give up on an invoice that has failed to pay and may have moved.

Find a trace provider let them provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision and get paid!

If you want to find out if tracing can make a difference to your business why not take a free trial with us and contact Alan.wood@ penhamexcel.co.uk to find out more.

www.penhamexcel.co.uk www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

19

Digital Technology

Tech Companies

This month, SBT turns to investigate the digital economy front on a more local level, looking at the South East’s most prevalent digital hub – the city of Brighton The UK’s digital tech industry is growing 32% faster than Focus the rest of the UK economy, with an estimated turnover of £161 billion back in 2014 – a figure that has continued to grow over the last two years. Not only did the amount of jobs created in this sector increase (with a growth of 11.2% between 2010 and 2014), but so did the average salary in digital roles; now just under £50,000, 36% higher than the national average annual salary. On average,

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

there were 163,000 vacancies for digital specialists across the UK technology sector in each quarter of 2015, as recorded by the tech skills council, Tech Partnership. The most desired professional role was that of Software Developers – a role that took up 27% of all advertised digital job vacancies.

Additionally, cyber security – something we have touched upon in previous issues of Sussex Business Times – is another concern, with the UK as a whole lacking in cyber security specialists, not only causing worry for the tech industry as a whole, but businesses and business owners in general; the security of a company’s data is almost always one of, if not the most important element owners and employees consider. Back in July this year, recruitment firm, Robert Half published the ‘Cyber-security: Protecting your Future’ report, which showed that 77% of UK CIOs believed that the level of security threat will grow due to the lack of talent, while over one third stated they would employ additional security staff.

However, it is the

local city of Brighton that we are more interested in for this issue. Brighton is a city that has, and continues to demonstrate outstanding innovation and development over the years, with the highest number of business startups per capita outside of London.

The city has shown a 42% GVA growth between 2010 and 2014, leading to a total GVA output of £744 million – an impressive figure when baring in mind that Brighton is actually one of the UK’s smallest cities. Because of these statistics, the average digital salary rose to £43,274 in 2015, with 11% employment growth from 2011 to 2014. Now, one in four Brighton-based businesses are part of the creative and digital cluster, and its economy is now estimated to be worth £1 billion.

But what is it that makes Brighton’s technology sector so successful?

CEO of Brighton-based Crunch Accounting, an online accountancy software company for small

Digital Technology

businesses, contractors and freelancers, expertise. 2013’s Brighton Fuse Report Darren Fell explains: “We are incredibly looked into Brighton’s digital sector, lucky to benefit from this city being a asking hundreds of Brighton-based great, exciting and fun place to live and companies why they chose to start up work. Brighton’s culture and vibrancy or move to the city, to which the vast are really important, majority described a as are the two great combination between universities, which the location, the “Growth cannot keep the flow of culture, environment come without talent coming. Our and digital history; change, so proximity to London is back in the 80’s, also a huge boon to businesses must be the early tech (CDdoing business. The companies willing to spend the ROM) whole sector feeds were established in money needed to off each other; there’s Brighton. Brighton a friendly supportive ensure up-to-date showed that almost feeling between us 7,500 jobs are a part and able software of the digital sector, all, along with a bit of quiet competitiveness, while businesses and technology” which helps us to in this sector grew keep raising our by more than 90% game!” since 2010, with benefits from strong At more than three times the national social networks, friendly competition average, Brighton has the highest density with other Brighton-based businesses, of digital companies in the UK and is increasing amounts of available now renowned for a wealth of digital properties and incoming talent, helped

along by the two local universities.

The [kind of] recent EU referendum result has left businesses in all areas uncertain of its effects on various business sectors in the UK, with many company owners and leaders unsure about the future. Will we lose out on skilled IT staff from inside the EU? How will movements of data across borders work? Can London and surrounding dominating regions of the UK remain at the top of the digital ladder within Europe?

A survey conducted with around 300 technology and IT professionals found that a very large amount (72%) of participants did not believe their jobs would be made easier by the vote to leave the EU and, in fact, 22% believed EU legislation around data protection benefitted them and their work.

Migration was also a huge contributing element to British residents voting to leave the EU, and this same topic is still a big concern for the tech industry, but in a completely different way. There is already a shortage of skilled workers coming out of EU countries, and Brexit is likely to only worsen the situation.

However, among all this Brexit talk, with uncertainty surrounding how businesses will be affected comes uncertainty around what can be done to prevent a negative effect, meaning businesses can only continue to develop their businesses as they have been doing over the last few years, and many businesses still remain optimistic: “Brexit shouldn’t have any great impact on innovation in the near term – technical innovation tends to emerge and spread very quickly in our connected world, and while currency fluctuations are important, we haven’t seen any major impact yet on business willingness to invest in infrastructure and services that can improve their performance,” says Ideal – a Brighton based creative IT solution provider – Managing Director, Claire Hopkins.

In association with The Sunday Times, Tech Track 100 lists the UK’s top performing and fastest growing companies in a variety of different categories, celebrating and rewarding the best of British business. Published each September in the business section of The Sunday Times, the lists are put together by British research company, Fast Track. In exciting

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

Digital Technology

“Economic growth creates many opportunities, increases overall income and helps to reduce the amount of unemployed residents in a particular area”

for the local business sector (and digital sector in particular), two Brighton-based companies made it high onto the list of top businesses for this year: Crunch Accounting and Ideal.

This is a huge achievement when considering the 5.4 million private sector businesses in the UK (2015).

Ideal was named the 47th fastest growing technology firm in the country, and has moved up three spots from last year. Last year, Ideal increased its turnover by 60% to £9.3 million, with a staff base of 49. When asked what it meant to have made it so high in the Tech Track 100, Claire Hopkins commented: “It’s fantastic to be recognised as a fast growth company and we found last year that many people first came across us via Tech Track. Our customers recognise it as prestigious, and having both ourselves and our friends at Crunch on

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the 2016 list supports the narrative that Brighton is a rising force on the tech landscape. People like to be associated with winners, so I hope this adds in some small way to the recognition that Brighton is a great place to run a business.”

Crunch CEO, Darren Fell also stated his excitement surrounding the recent success of the business: “It’s a huge vote of confidence in our work and our success. To be in the list two years in a row is very exciting, it’s a big national moment for us.”

In order for these impressive statistics to keep increasing in coming years, Brighton-based businesses need to ensure constant development and innovation, aiming to continue along the route they are already on, but making changes and expansions along the way. Economic growth creates many opportunities, increases overall income and helps to reduce

the amount of unemployed residents in a particular area. However, growth cannot come without change, so businesses must be willing to spend the money needed to ensure up-todate and able software and technology.

Speaking of Crunch’s future plans to ensure continuing growth, Darren said: “We’ve got ambitious plans to keep launching new products and services designed to perfectly meet the needs of micro-businesses. These 1-10 person businesses are often poorly served by the mainstream providers, so we’re building on our core online accountancy services with mortgages, debt collection, insurance and much more.

We want to be the one stop shop for your micro-business to be a success.

With that, we’re confident the growth will continue.”

Also, with regards to future plans to ensure continued growth in the sector, Ideal’s Claire Hopkins described how customer feedback is an important part of innovation: “We regularly survey our customers to make sure that we are delivering what they need, and this is what makes us different from other companies who maybe just focus on the sale. Going forward, I want to continue to work with great customers, partners and people so we maintain our ability to grow the business while having some fun as well.”

If local businesses continue to grow, develop and innovate their companies to suit the ongoing developments in the tech sector of business overall, as well as the needs of their loyal customers, Brighton should and will remain one of the UK’s most prominent digital hubs.

FRESH CLEANING SERVICES LIMITED

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

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

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

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

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

Charity

Is a Charity ‘In Business’ in the VAT Man’s Eyes?

Sussex is home to a wealth of charities, many of which may be confused about how VAT applies to them. Alison Sampson, Senior VAT Advisor at Knill James Chartered Accountants gives an overview of VAT within the charity sector, including concerns, grants and exemptions

‘Business’ is an important concept in VAT as it determines Insight if VAT must be charged and if it can be recovered.

Commercial organisations are generally clearly in business, but very often a charity will undertake non-business activities.

There have been a number of cases on the meaning of business for VAT but unfortunately the judgements are often contradictory. The normal approach taken by the courts is to look objectively at what a charity does. If it is providing goods or services in return for a consideration (usually a consideration in money, but not necessarily) then it is seen as being in business.

If an activity is wholly funded by income that is outside the scope of VAT such as grants or donations it will be a nonbusiness activity. VAT is not charged on the grant income received but neither can VAT be recovered on the costs incurred.

Subsidised activities, where an

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

activity is partly funded by grants and partly by taxable charges or fees, do give entitlement to VAT recovery, but HMRC will sometimes seek to apply an apportionment to the input VAT recovery. Even though an activity is subsidised, it can still be a wholly business activity, leading to full VAT recovery on associated costs.

VAT Treatment of Grants and Contracts A common concern for charities is whether they must charge VAT on income. Is it a contract or grant for VAT purposes? Business or non-business? If the income is a true grant that is outside the scope of VAT then any activity wholly funded by it will be non-business.

The difficultly is that many scenarios are hybrids and fall between the two extremes of wholly business or wholly non business.

It is often the case that certain arrangements are not correctly described. Just because funding is called a “grant”, if it is actually a payment for something specifically supplied in return, it is not a grant for VAT purposes.

Although the terms of any agreement should be considered in deciding the VAT treatment in such cases, the facts are also critical.

Another incorrect description is “minimum donation”. If it is a donation, it is freely given, voluntarily. If there is a compulsory

“It is often the case that certain arrangements are not correctly described. Just because funding is called a “grant”, if it is actually a payment for something specifically supplied in return, it is not a grant for VAT purposes”

Charity

“HMRC will often agree that such distortive transactions can be excluded from an incomebased non-business apportionment, but it is best to get this confirmed in writing

by HMR�

minimum required, it is a charge or fee!

The receipt of a grant or outside the scope income does not automatically result in a VAT recovery restriction. A subsidised service where charges are made to customers is still a business activity for VAT purposes. Some HMRC officers try to demand a VAT restriction when they come across any outside the scope income, but this is wrong.

Difficulties can also occur with sponsorship income. If a local supporter gives a donation but requires no acknowledgement, then the money they give is clearly outside the scope. The problem occurs if the donor insists on recognition. Here it is often arguable whether VAT is chargeable. HMRC will generally not see a grant making organisation that insists on recognition (such as national lottery funding) as receiving a supply, but might well take a different view if the funder is a commercial

organisation that benefits from the publicity. This can be more critical if the sponsor is in the VAT exempt sector (e.g. banking, insurance), as they would not be entitled to full input tax recovery.

Although there is a standard method for VAT partial exemption calculations, do remember that there is no set method for non-business apportionment, but it does have to be fair and reasonable. In theory, a non-business apportionment can be based on any variables, but HMRC do like there to be some logic involved and will want to be able to verify the figures.

For example, they are unlikely to accept a time-based apportionment (staff time) if the organisation does not use timesheet recording anyway – they might think that the figures have been made up purely to give a good VAT recovery result!

An income-based method of apportionment may be an easy, onestep calculation from easily identifiable figures, but it might not give a fair or favourable result. Bear in mind that an apportionment based on the same ratio as business income bears to total income can be hugely distorted by large, one-off transactions such as legacies. HMRC will often agree that such distortive transactions can be excluded from an income-based non-business apportionment, but it is best to get this confirmed in writing by HMRC. The fact is that a windfall such as a legacy will not result in input tax bearing costs, and its inclusion in an income-based method will not be relevant. The input tax incurred by the organisation will not be directly proportional to the legacy income.

Written by Alison Sampson, Senior VAT Advisor, Knill James Chartered Accountants, UK200Group Members

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

Courses Start Autumn 2016

Bexhill Adult Learning Centre Evening and Part-time Learning at Bexhill College Want to learn a new skill? Need to gain a qualification to help you further your career? Interested in trying something new? A daytime or evening part-time course at Bexhill College can offer the opportunity to do both.

Skills for Life Courses ESOL, English, Maths and other skills.

Recreational Courses Cookery, Sugarcraft, Languages, Art & Craft, Creative Writing, IT Skills, Social Media, Local History, Photoshop and more.

Qualification Courses Apprenticeships (Childcare, Business, Hairdressing, Hospitality, Health), Assessor Courses, GCSEs (English, Maths, Biology) and more.

Phone for a free prospectus today or go online at www.bexhillcollege.ac.uk/part-time and view all courses available.

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

bexhillcollege.ac.uk/part-time Call: 01424 215746 ext 208 Email: adultlearning@bexhillcollege.ac.uk

Main College Site Bexhill College, Penland Road Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex TN40 2JG Free Parking. 2 mins drive from Ravenside

Jameson Mews Jameson Mews, Jameson Road Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex TN40 1EG Free Parking. 2 mins walk from Station

-time

e.ac.uk

2JG enside

d 1EG ation

Health

The Effects of Sleep on Productivity Sussex Business Times takes a look at the importance of a good night’s sleep and how this enhances productivity in the workplace

Hard workers tend to deprive themselves of sleep in order Health to get more done in time for the day or week ahead of them. However, sleep deprivation doesn’t just affect a person’s general mood and drain body energy, it has a negative effect on an individual’s productivity and in the long run, your business.

Many people think of sleep as a time when the brain and body shut down, but this is not the case. Sleep is an active period for the mind in which an astounding amount of information is processed and restored, and sleep is crucial for optimal health and wellbeing.

It is a known fact – and increasing figure – that employees are not getting enough sleep, causing senior managers and business leaders to report a negative impact on their businesses. Research by the Rand Corporation based on data from 21,822 UK employees has found that the productivity of those who slept seven to eight hours per night was significantly better than those who slept for less than five hours per night, demonstrating the true importance of a decent amount of sleep. On average, individuals should be getting at least seven-and-a-half hours of shut-eye per night, but recent research has also shown that workers at all levels are only getting an average of 6.47 hours – scientifically not enough to ensure an efficient and dynamic mind frame. What we are trying to say here is not ‘the more sleep you get the more productive you will be’, but more along the lines of ‘getting the recommended 7 to 8 hours of

“Tasks that require constant attention are affected the most by sleep deprivation, often causing employees to become distracted and unable to focus on what they were working on previous to their disruption” sleep per night will cause you to be more productive,’ as sometimes, someone who has slept for ten hours can also be less valuable in the workplace than someone who has slept for eight hours – getting the right balance is very important.

Further research has shown that tasks that require constant attention are affected the most by sleep deprivation, often causing employees to become distracted and unable to focus on what they were working on previous to their disruption. A person’s ability to

concentrate on one subject or task is decreased substantially when tired, in the same way as a person’s ability to recover from distractions. When you’re sleep deprived, you’ll have more trouble refocusing on the task at hand after a distraction or disruption. Getting enough sleep is crucial for securing in your brain what you have learnt and the tasks you have completed throughout the day, and so without sleep, you are more likely to have a poor working memory than those who are sleeping an ideal amount.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

Health

habits. However, there are a number of ways in which individuals can alter their sleeping patterns in order to gain – or feel like they are gaining – a reasonable amount of shut-eye every night. For example: • Be more active during the day. If your workplace is within a reasonable distance, try travelling to and from work on foot.

• Avoid taking naps throughout the day or in the evening. If you’re feeling tired, then fight it!

• Write down your stresses and worries before you go to bed. This way, you can transfer your worries from your mind onto paper, leaving your thoughts quieter and therefore, better suited for sleeping.

• Cut back on smoking and alcohol and reduce the amount of caffeine you consume.

• Try and find ways to manage stress such as listening to calming music or practicing meditation.

• Develop a more ‘set’ routine. Go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning.

• Avoid the use of electronics before bed – try reading or taking a bath instead.

Additionally, although there is no scientific explanation between sleep deprivation and obtaining headaches, there is definitely a correlation. A large amount of sleep-deprived individuals will find that they gain headaches on a regular basis, which then demonstrates the domino effect – lack of sleep causes headaches and headaches cause low productivity levels.

Of course, the amount of sleep a person gets is subjective, and different people have different sleeping patterns.

Sleeping patterns are affected by a number of different elements, including age, the time of day or night in relation to an individual’s internal clock, as well as other factors such as environmental conditions like the weather, the amount of exercise a person conducts and

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

stress levels. Light is seen as one of the most important external factors that can affect sleep by influencing the timing of our internal clock. The mind has been taught to sleep when it’s dark and to awake when it’s light, which is one of the main reasons as to why individuals who work night shifts tend to suffer more with irregular and disturbed sleeping patterns.

Half of all night shift workers say they regularly nod off or fall into a relatively deep sleep when they are at work, which should be seen as an important concern considering public safety workers (police officers, nurses, air traffic controllers etc.) make up a large amount of all night shift workers.

Sleep routines are often learnt during a person’s childhood, and when practiced for a number of years, they become

Although the typical set hours of 9-5 for a working day help develop a daily routine, employers should be acknowledging that this can also be inconvenient and tedious. While a set pattern does have some obvious benefits, research shows that people with an adaptable work environment tend to have healthier habits and are very often more productive and efficient during work. Businesses should explore the different working schedules, asking themselves if it is necessary for all employees to be present for the whole day, whether or not later starts and later closes are possible with the type of business they are running or if it would be possible for the job to be completed at the same standard off-site or out of office.

Although the vast majority of workers are familiar with the basic effects of sleep deprivation – general productivity being the main factor – it is surprising as to how few of these people implement routines to prevent, or at least decrease, the ways in which our productivity is negatively affected. Sleep is not only crucial to our work life, but also our physical and mental health, so turn off those electronics before bed and get some shut-eye!

Is your business struggling to recover unpaid invoices?

Offering a nationwide service with directly employed enforcement agents, Penham Excel is a trusted and respected company working with the High Court, Local Authorities, Property Management Companies, Solicitors, Landlords, Debt Collection Agencies and Private Businesses to secure the collection of monies owed to them.

We work in partnership with our clients to tailor the service to your exact needs, providing easy same day instruction, on-going support, up to the minute reporting on your case/s and immediate payment of received cleared funds.

£

£

Free transfer up of CCJ’s to the High Court

Commercial Rent Arrears

We will transfer up your County Court Judgment for more than £600 to the High Court free of charge, however you will need to pay the court fee of £66.00.

Rapid collection of outstanding commercial rents utilising CRAR (Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery) regulations. In all cases the process is initiated on the day of instruction.

Writ of Control

Removal of Travellers

We can enforce high court writs for all your money claims of £600 or more. Upon instruction we will commence work immediately and keep you up to date with each and every stage of enforcement.

Speedy removal of unauthorised occupiers of private land, in many instances a 24 hour notice to vacate can be served on the day of instruction.

Writ of Possession

Forfeiture

We will oversee the execution of a Writ of Possession for Commercial & Residential premises.

We are able to evict squatters/travellers/trespassers from your property once a Writ of Possession is obtained

If the need arises to regain control of a commercial property; then forfeiture could be the action you require. We carry out full property inspection reports for each and every forfeiture.

Employment Tribunal & ACAS Settlement Awards

Free Trace & Investigation Specialising in all ‘out of area collections’, our dedicated Trace and Investigation division utilises state of the art technology to locate absconders who owe you money. Why not send us a test batch for Free tracing.

Dont wait for your compensation award, we will concentrate on recovering your monies as soon as possible and will remit the funds quicker than the normal County Court route of enforcement.

Why wait for tomorrow, when we can act for you today?

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 033 000 20700 info@highcourtenforcementofficers.com

www.highcourtenforcementofficers.com

29

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Alternative Staff Parties for Christmas 2016

SBT suggests alternative Christmas party ideas to last issue’s fine dining recommendations

In the last issue of Sussex Business Times, we looked at our top fine dining venues for Christmas parties.

This month, we carry on the theme of Christmas do’s, however this time concentrating on those who require a more adventurous shindig than a fancy dinner.

Royal Pavilion Ice Rink

To check availability of time slots or purchase tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.co.uk or call 08448 472352 (08448 471512 for bookings of 10 people or more).

We briefly touched upon the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink in the previous issue, however in the October edition, we plan to entice you further by explaining why this Brighton attraction makes for such a fun and enjoyable Christmas party activity. Built in 1787 as a seaside retreat for George, Prince of Wales, the Royal Pavilion is the host of a rich and endearing culture, so what better way to lap up Brighton’s history than on a pair of skates? The hustle and bustle of the streets of Brighton town during the festive season is one exciting element, but the magnificent appearance of Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is what makes for a grand and truly magical Christmas experience.

With the Rinkside Bar and Kitchen, visitors can warm up after a skate with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine as well as a range of different festive snacks.

The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink also gives guests the flexibility they need with time slots throughout the day and evening, allowing people to observe the city that is so full of life during the Christmas period.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

Christmas Parties

at Drakes of Brighton

Celebrate this year’s Christmas party in style at Drakes, Brighton’s top boutique hotel A meal at Drakes is not a formal affair, but it’s all about personal service, relaxed glamour and excellent fine dining in a laid back atmosphere.

Whether you are celebrating with a few close friends or part of a larger group, The Restaurant at Drakes is a perfect and intimate venue for a fun-filled Christmas party. Parties of 8 to 12 people who are looking to add that extra special touch to their event can book The Private Dining Room - a stylish, private space which includes the services of a designated waiter. There is no additional hire charge for the use of this room, which makes it all the more appealing.

Arrive at the hotel early for cocktails or a chilled glass of Champagne in the fabulous seafront Reception Bar before making your way downstairs for a fabulous festive meal.

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Having achieved the highest score of all Brighton restaurants in The Good Food Guide 2016 for the 7th consecutive year, you can be certain the impeccable dishes created by Chef, Andy Vitez are set to impress.

After dinner return to the wonderful relaxed atmosphere of the bar to continue the festivities. Why not make a night of it? The bar is open 24 hours for hotel guests ensuring that everyone can relax and party until late without worrying about catching taxis or trains home in the wee hours. A short wander up the stairs to the beautiful bedrooms ensures a great night’s sleep and concludes a night of festive fun in style.

Most of the bespoke guest rooms offer breathtaking sea views, feature free standing baths or have monsoon wet

rooms for long indulgent showers. All are furnished with deep, hand made mattresses and covered with goose/duck down duvets and pillows that envelope you in soft, luxurious comfort. All rooms benefit from air conditioning, flat screen television with full Sky package, i-Pod docking and free wireless broadband.

For a very grown up, stylish celebration with relaxed fine dining, book your party at Drakes and enjoy a most memorable Christmas experience.

Contact the Restaurant Manager for prices and availability on 01273 696934 Option 2.

43-44 Marine Parade, Brighton W. www.therestaurantatdrakes.com E. therestaurant@drakesofbrighton.com

Holmbush Paintballing Contact Holmbush Paintballing via 0800 2792525 or bookings@holmbushpaintabll.co.uk Described as “one of the UK’s best paintball destinations”, Holmbush Paintballing is a great idea for the more adventurous – and brave – teams of staff. Holmbush Paintballing dedicates itself to one main goal: to ensure you have the ultimate paintball experience. Located in rural West Sussex, Horsham, Holmbush Paintballing has been hosting events for over 20 years and has received nothing but great reviews from previous visitors. Holmbush also hosts 18 different fields combining different terrains, with more currently under construction, and the large grounds make the game all the more competitive and entertaining. Also, with local catering companies, refreshments are available to visitors throughout the day, with a typical meal costing around £3, while soft drinks and tea and coffee are free; staying hydrated won’t be a problem. Prices range depending on the chosen package. A full or half day with 100 paintballs costs £12.50pp, £22.50pp for 300, £34.50pp for 500 paintballs and £59.50pp for 1,000. All equipment is included in these prices.

Pantomime Visit the website of your preferred theatre for more information on shows, dates and ticket prices.

Is Christmas even Christmas without pantomime? This coming December, lucky for us, will present Sussex with a range of different pantomimes and with theatres located all across the region; you really don’t get much more of a selection. Aladdin will be the much-loved story to grace the stage of the Emporium in Brighton from Thursday 3rd December to January 9th, so if getting time off for everyone before the holiday proves to be difficult, then you don’t have to worry. Tickets for this show range from £12 to £21.50 for individuals, and early booking is advisable to avoid disappointment. Similarly at Hastings’ White Rock Theatre, Peter Pan will be staged from Friday 16th December – suitable for, again, those who find difficulty in getting time off for everyone before the festivities start. Featuring popular Union J star, Jaymi Hensley, Peter Pan is definitely not one to miss this year, so get ready to ‘set sail’ to Neverland this Christmas for a fun and festive adventure.

More of this year’s pantomime shows include Jack and the Beanstalk at the Ropetackle in Shorham, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Eastbourne’s Devonshire Park Theatre, Beauty and the Beast at Capitol Theatre in Horsham and many more, meaning there is something for everyone, sure to keep the whole team entertained for an evening.

Sittingbourne Greyhound Stadium Go to www.sittingbournegreyhounds. co.uk or call 01795 475547 for more information and booking.

Similarly, in the September issue of Sussex Business Times, we also took a brief look at how Sittingbourne Greyhounds could be the missing ingredient to your company Christmas celebrations. With an entry fee of just £9 per person, guests can bet their money away and devour a three-course meal from Sittingbourne’s varied menu, all the while lapping up a stream of drinks from the full bar. Sittingbourne also offer out the use of their massive 24 acres of land for outdoor hire, so if watching the Greyhounds isn’t particularly suited to your team of staff, why not hire the grounds and celebrate in your own unique way?

Sittingbourne are also frequently updating their list of events and party nights, so keep your eyes peeled. www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

Brighton & Hove Greyhound Stadium

Winter Wonderland For more information and prices, visit www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Taking place at London’s Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland has become one of the UK’s most desired festive experiences for people from all walks of life. Right in the heart of the city of London, Winter Wonderland promises guests a truly magical Christmas experience. Kicking off on November 18th and due to run for 6 weeks, the enchanting event takes visitors right through to the new year, and this year is set to be even more special than before as Winter Wonderland celebrates its 10th birthday. The annual extravaganza provides people in attendance with an array of activities and entertainment, including ice skating in the UK’s biggest open-air rink, amazing circus shows, the Giant Observation Wheel – allowing guests to see London’s true beauty at Christmas time, as well as a trip through the Magical Ice Kingdom. In addition to the many different festive rides, Winter Wonderland hosts Christmas markets and offers to really get in the spirit by drinking mulled wine and munching on delicious food.

Winter Wonderland opens at 5pm on Friday 18th November, but will be open every day afterwards from 10am to 10pm until January 2nd. Entry into the park is free, so roaming around and enjoying the atmosphere won’t cost a thing. However, attractions host separate prices and tickets can be purchased either online or on the day, although visitors should keep in mind that spaces for popular attractions are not guaranteed.

Lucky Voice Book online at www.luckyvoice.com or call in, quoting the code ‘PUD16’ for your festive freebie.

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Head over to www.brightonand hovegreyhoundstadium.co.uk for information on admission and booking.

Brighton & Hove Greyhound Stadium, described as one of the “most scenic of all Greyhound stadia in the British isles,” also presents guests with a fun and exciting night out with colleagues. With a 455m track, watch and cheer as the elegant dogs race round the track, and with the added possible bonus of pocketing yourself some money, what could go wrong? With the ability to host more than 2,000 visitors, Brighton & Hove Greyhound Stadium is a suitable choice for businesses large and small and provides outstanding restaurant and catering facilities. The stadium holds a skyline restaurant with a delicious menu as well as two fast food outlets and not one, but five drinking bars. With a car park hosting over 350 spaces and disabled facilities, Brighton & Hove Greyhound Stadium is suited to people of all ages with all requirements, so get booking!

Due to their overwhelming success and the increasing demand of their loyal – and new – customers, karaoke bar, Lucky Voice now has venues in Brighton, London Soho and London Islington. Whether you’re planning a do for a large group of employees or a more intimate team of staff, Lucky Voice can cater to your company’s needs. What better way to celebrate the end of 2016 than singing and dancing – and drinking – with your closest friends and colleagues? For those with a, should I say, not-so-impressive voice, embarrassment is non-existent with Lucky Voice’s private pods, meaning you can really enjoy your festive shindig without a care in the world. With over 9,000 songs in their library, Lucky Voice has something for everyone, from Frank Sinatra to Katy Perry – something to suit every mood. Additionally, why not try their Christmas exclusive cocktail masterclasses, available every day from 12pm to 6pm.

Costing £50 per person, guests can make and taste 3 different seasonal drinks, finishing the evening with an hour of karaoke, also with the chance to take away a recipe book.

Lucky Voice is currently running an early bird offer, so book your private karaoke room by the end of this month for you and your group to get a Christmas Pudding sharer cocktail on-thehouse!

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Best Bitter 297x210mm SBT Magazine.pdf 1 26/09/2016 15:14:13

The day has come where you can finally drink Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter 450 feet up in the British Airways i360, with stunning surrounding views of the South Downs and Sussex Coast.

C

M

Y

Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter cans are also available from our brewery shop in Lewes and online.

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

britishairwaysi360.com harveys.org.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Blue Sky Thinking There’s nothing like an interesting view to get people talking.

So if your business clients, team or networking group are looking for inspiration then take them to British Airways i360 in Brighton, where sweeping seascapes and innovative engineering will feed their conversations and breathe fresh air into your event

As your group glides up gently to 450ft in the futuristic British Airways Cover i360 glass pod they’ll gain a whole new perspective on Brighton & Hove.

Feature Imagine the scene: enjoying views of the beautiful south coast, whilst toasting all your achievements with a drink at the Nyetimber Sky Bar during the flight.

British Airways i360 is all about aiming high.

Conceived and designed by Mark Barfield Architects the creators of the London Eye - British Airways i360 is the worlds tallest moving observation tower. Since opening on Brighton beach in August 2016 it has become a beacon of discovery and innovation; the perfect environment in which to push boundaries, forge new relationships or simply celebrate in style.

THE EVENT SPACES For a drinks reception or networking event with a difference, hire the British Airways i360 pod for exclusive use; it can accommodate up to 175 people and has a state-of-the-art sound system and screens which can be adapted for corporate use. Start your event with canapés and drinks at the on-board Nyetimber Sky Bar, which serves the vineyard’s award-winning English sparkling wine, and other drinks from the region including Brighton Gin, Harvey’s Sussex Ale, Wobblegate juices and South Downs water.

Conversations will flow as you move into the flexible private event spaces in the British Airways i360 beach building, which are suitable for anything from small intimate meetings to groups of up to 1,100 people.

Natural light pours in through full-height windows and the two largest areas, Attenborough and Birch, open out onto private beachfront terraces.

All the events rooms are named after famous people www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37 who had connections to Brighton and the West Pier site.

From one of the smaller spaces, Volks, you can watch

Cover Feature: British Airways i360

the pod rise and descend through a glass screen with views of the West Pier in the background. Moving walls make the beach building event spaces completely flexible and it’s possible to hire the whole building for private use.

Smaller groups of up to 58 also have the option of hiring the West Pier Tea Room, which has a private sea-facing terrace and is housed in one of the beautifully reconstructed 1866 West Pier tollbooths, which stand at the entrance to British Airways i360.

You may be at the beach, but business carries on as normal in all the event spaces at British Airways i360, as each has AV facilities and there is super-fast fibre optic broadband throughout the premises.

Dedicated event managers will help plan your event and incorporate a pod flight into your schedule, whether it’s a meeting followed by a pod flight and lunch, a full day’s conference with exclusive pod flights throughout the day or an awards ceremony with early evening drinks at the Nyetimber Sky Bar. British Airways i360 CEO, Eleanor Harris said: “The British Airways i360 pod is a unique, moving event venue with breathtaking views and a bar on board. There is nowhere else like this on the south coast and the team has taken exceptional care to design all our spaces to create somewhere truly special for any event, whether it’s small or large, casual or formal.

“Organisers report very high turnout for events at British Airways i360, and people really enjoy themselves – we are right on Brighton’s seafront and it’s not unusual to see conference delegates kicking off their shoes and taking a stroll on the beach.”

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

British Airways i360 | Corporate Packages | Autumn Winter All packages plus VAT, per person and include room hire Ditchling Package Choice of Bowl Food | Artisan Buffet £45.00 plus VAT per person Arundel Package 3 course banquet with coffee £50.00 plus VAT per person Chichester Package Welcome glass of Prosecco | Half a bottle of wine | 3 course banquet with coffee £65.00 plus VAT per person Seven Sisters Package Welcome glass of Prosecco | 3 Canapés | Half a bottle of wine | 3 course deluxe banquet with coffee £75.00 plus VAT per person South Downs Package Welcome glass of Nyetimber | 3 Canapés | 3 course gourmet banquet with coffee Meal cooked by MasterChef the Professionals winner Steven Edwards £90.00 plus VAT per person

Cover Feature: British Airways i360

FOOD AND DRINK green energy venue and even generates Steven Edwards, former winner of green energy as the pod descends. We Masterchef: The Professionals, works serve locally-sourced food where possible with award-winning caterers, Heritage and our building is designed to be energy Portfolio to create the menus at British efficient.”

Airways i360. Steven can be booked to Special events are created for the personally cook at private events and his business community at key times of signature dishes appear year; one example is on many of the menus.

“The British Airways the Starry Nights shared Guests can enjoy i360 pod is a unique, Christmas parties which outdoor barbeques moving event venue have already proven very or hog roasts, drinks popular. The package with breathtaking receptions, lunches, includes a three-course views and a bar dinners or formal meal with wine, followed on board. There is banquets while taking by dessert canapés nowhere else like this served during a flight in views of Brighton on the south coast” on the British Airways beach and the historic West Pier. Menus can be i360 pod and a disco tailored to individual event requirements afterwards in the beach building. and dishes are inspired by the seasons, Whether you’re looking out at summer with at least 50% of the ingredients days or stormy winter seas, British sourced from the fields, farms and coastal Airways i360 is a stunning and unique waters of Sussex. events venue all year around.

Sustainability is high on the agenda So no matter how busy your agenda, in all areas of operations. Eleanor Harris there is always a place in Brighton for added: “British Airways i360 is a 100% blue sky thinking.

Set-up style and Capacity Event Space

Reception

Banquet

Theatre

Boardroom

Glass pod ‘exclusive hire’

175

100

Not applicable

Not applicable

Beach room Attenborough

170

80

90

32

Beach room Birch

210

90

120

40

Attenborough & Birch combined

380

170

200

Not applicable

Beach room Constable*

120

100

80

30

Attenborough, Birch & Constable combined*

500

250

Not applicable

Not applicable

Greene - boardroom

40

20

25

18

Austen

120

80

80

30

Volks

100

70

50

20

1866 West Pier tollbooth*

40

20

25

20

Exclusive hire beach rooms & pod*

800

350

Not applicable

Not applicable

Exclusive hire entire building & pod*

1100

520

Not applicable

Not applicable *Available evenings only

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk To enquire about any event at British Airways i360, tel: +44 (0)1273 448370 or email: events@britishairwaysi360.com

39

SOUTH DOWNS NATURAL MINERAL WATER FROM 420FT BELOW THE BEAUTIFUL SOUTH DOWNS SPRINGS OUR PREMIUM NATURAL MINERAL WATER. NATURALLY FILTERED THROUGH THE DEEP CHALK LAYERS OF THE SOUTH DOWNS OUR WATER IS HIGH IN CALCIUM AND LOW IN SODIUM FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL PURITY OF TASTE.

Proud to supply British Airways i360

BOTTLED AT OUR INDEPENDENT, FAMILY RUN SOURCE IN SUSSEX AND DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO YOUR DOOR – FREE OF CHARGE. WHY DRINK WATER FROM ANYWHERE ELSE? T: 01243 376156

E: enquiries@southdownswater.co.uk

W: www.southdownswater.co.uk

“EXTREMELY COMPETITIVE OPTION FOR DEVELOPING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS”

M L I F & Y H P A R G O T O PH S E C I V R E S D N A O I D STU SHOOTING PORTRAITS, FAMILIES, PETS, PRODUCTS LARGE AND SMALL, OR FOR PRIVATE RENTAL 40 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Contact the team at Life Studios to discuss your requirements or simply to enquire about hourly or day rates for professional hire: 01323 819007

o tish s

NSQ Riverside and footbridge CGI

Lewes’s North Street Quarter Development Sussex Business Times takes a look at the town of Lewes, its upcoming developments and the benefits this will have on the local economy

When locals mention the small town of Lewes, images Insight are conjured of cobbled streets, Tudor architecture, the smell of hops from the brewery, riverside walks, thatched roofs and almost a sense of stepping back in time. It’s fair to say that Lewes isn’t a place that’s seen many developments, whether commercial or residential, for a number of years. To its credit, it has kept its character and its distinct historical presence, whilst still providing the residents with everything they need. However, as with Sussex as a whole, there are always improvements to be made and strategy to be applied; ensuring sustainability and growth.

Lewes’s major upcoming improvement is that of the North Street Quarter; a

was previously known as Phoenix 15-acre brownfield site that, over the Industrial Estate – back in 2012. Due to next few years, will be developed to its close proximity to the river, a lot of provide housing for local people, a the buildings in the industrial estate were health centre and retail and workspace uninsurable because of the flood risks for creative industries and businesses, posed, causing it to be as well as general incredibly difficult to pull community space for “The North in long-term investment residents and visitors and employment. In of the town to enjoy.

Street Quarter 2013, Lewes District North Street Quarter is development is Council agreed with a public/private sector the largest to Santon North Street partnership between Lewes District Council be given the go- to enter their mutual and submitted a and Santon North Street ahead in any UK venture, joint planning application Ltd., and provides the national park” to the South Downs local economy with a National Park Authority. gross investment of With planning granted £180 million. after an intense three-year consultation Santon North Street and Lewes District with Lewes-based businesses and Council own North Street Quarter at a residents, the North Street Quarter ratio of 70:30, after Santon North Street development is the largest to be given purchased its section of the site – which

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

Development

the go-ahead in any UK national park.

Although the developments aren’t set to be completed until 2019, work to prepare for the first phase of the regeneration is underway and the outcome is expected to bring a range of different, beneficial assets to the town, including: a new health centre with the ability to serve 26,000 patients; a public car park with the capacity to hold over 300 spaces; and 416 houses (243 in phase one developments, with the rest built by 2019), of which 40% are affordable homes eligible for those on lower incomes and sometimes, key workers such as policemen and women, fire brigade staff etc. In addition, the regeneration will see a retail extension of Market Street for creative and professional industries and businesses.

Director of Santon North Street, Clive Wilding commented on the developments: “North Street Quarter represents a £180 million investment in Lewes and is providing the town with much needed, affordable housing and public services, including a state of the art health hub, accommodating GPs, dentists and a pharmacy. We are also creating workspace and retail outlets, which will provide flexible and affordable premises for creative business.”

In addition to the new and improved site hosting up-to-date facilities, the

North street Quarter CGI

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

development of the North Street Quarter is likely to provide the community with a large amount of employment opportunities and workspace, ensuring the site is an economic success for the next 200 years. Creating combined health care facilities for tens-of-thousands of people, along with the mixed housing such as extra care, will encourage employment by making other commercial buildings around the town available. The planned health conveniences will be set in a larger accessible space, allowing them to expand their variety of services to the community in years to come. Not only this, but the development of this area will also allow 75,000 square feet of space for light industrial employment to be created at the Malling Brooks Industrial Estate, of which construction is already underway, showing just how soon the developments are moving along. The expansions on both of these sites will have the ability to host 475 full-time equivalent registered jobs, while 100 full-time jobs will be created in construction alone.

Development

Additionally, as a part of supporting and providing for the local economy and Lewes as a whole, high-quality workshop, office and retail space of various sizes will be created as a means of sustaining the local creative industries.

These spaces will be flexible and will aim to support business development in the long-term, with the promise to adapt as businesses grow and move on, while new businesses enter the community – addressing the requirement of the Lewes District Local Plan Joint Core Strategy. The developments will also provide 65,000 square feet of flexible workspace for businesses big and small, built to modern standards – an element the town of Lewes has never before seen.

An example of the opportunities offered to local businesses as a result of the developments can be seen with local timber merchant, Wenban-Smith, who has been a tenant on the [former] Phoenix Industrial Estate for over five years; the regeneration providing the business with the opportunity to relocate to Lewes’ Malling Brooks Industrial Estate.

With a long history dating back to 1875, the business was taken over in 1995

by Wenban-Smith and has continued to prevail over the last 20 years, and has now been given the chance to further thrive with the help of the new expansions.

Manager of Wenban-Smith, Barry Draper commented on his excitement for

“The plans look really nice and it’s great that more will be made of the river – it will be a real feature and benefit to the town”

the relocation: “When we move to Malling Brooks, not only will we have a brand new bespoke property, but we will be with all the other building merchants. This is great news for our customers too as they will be able to purchase all they need in one location.”

Clive Wilding spoke further on the benefits of the developments: “The scope of the scheme not only provides space for new businesses, but also offers development opportunities for existing businesses like Wenban-Smith, so they have security and the potential to expand without having to leave Lewes.”

The plans will also carry out intense work on the local River Ouse, which runs alongside part of the North Street Quarter.

Flood preventions will be constructed in order to protect the area, and the development will also create public access to the river with a bridge and a promenade, creating a new, relaxing riverside area for the local residents and visitors of Lewes town to enjoy and spend their time. Barry continued: “I think this development will be fantastic for Lewes. This area has been a bit of an eyesore for some time and there are lots of old buildings that need to come down.

The plans look really nice and it’s great that more will be made of the river – it will be a real feature and benefit to the town.”

The owners of the North Street Quarter have taken special care in order to ensure the development is designed to complement the character and history of Lewes and its industrial past, allowing residents and visitors to continue to embrace the town’s heritage. Leader of Lewes District Council himself, Andy Smith concludes: “I am delighted to hear that the Council’s partner, Santon is poised and ready to start preparatory work on the North Street Quarter development. This brings us one step closer to delivering a huge number of community benefits to the town of Lewes, including homes, flood defences, jobs and great public spaces. The regeneration of the largest brownfield site in the historic county town of Lewes is making progress.”

To keep up with the North Street Quarter developments, visit www.northstreetqtr.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

5

Ways to Give Your Office Space a Fresh New Look

Basepoint centres offer a wide range of fully serviced office space. Here, Basepoint looks at some of the simple steps to take to enhance the look and feel of an office

When you are busy at work, it’s easy not Top to worry too much about what your Tips office space looks like. However, there is plenty of evidence that mood and productivity are affected by our surroundings. Basepoint centres offer a wide range of fully serviced office space, with units of different sizes ranging from small studios to flexible space and workshops.

Whichever type of unit you choose, there is plenty of scope to furnish it so that it fits the personality of your business. A big bonus for companies based at our affordable office centres is that staff also have access to communal areas, including versatile break-out facilities with Wi-Fi, coffee and drinks

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

1

machines, in bright, light and modern buildings. These areas have a colourful, lively feel which provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Here, we look at some of the simple steps which can enhance the look and feel of an office. Freshening up the look of your workspace can boost creativity and help to make staff happier and more motivated, plus it doesn’t need to cost a fortune.

www.basepoint.co.uk

Splash of Colour

Opting for a bright feature wall, for instance in teal blue or green, can create a striking contrast with surrounding white paintwork and help to give a funky feel to a small or medium-sized office.

It is possible to have a wall painted in a colour of your choice within a Basepoint office if you arrange this with staff.

Alternatively, you could put up paintings, prints or framed artwork to add interest and brighten up your office walls. For instance, if your company specialises in design, you may want to display key examples of your own work and impress visiting clients.

2

Taste of the Outdoors

It’s increasingly recognised that plants and greenery in offices can enhance mood and atmosphere and promote better staff health. For all these reasons, it is a great idea to add some wellchosen plants to a small office design.

The idea is to choose plants which won’t need a lot of looking after and will carry on looking good. The weeping fig, or Ficus benjamina, is one popular choice because it retains its shape particularly well. Others include Kentia palms, money or ‘Jade’ plants, which have thick and glossy green leaves, and various different types of cacti. Just remember to water and feed them as necessary!

3

Changing Desk Layouts

Older desks may take up more space than is needed, if they were built to take heavy, old-fashioned computers and monitors rather than the smaller, space-saving models which have now replaced them.

If you buy more modern desks, a number of different desk layouts are possible in a smaller office. These can include having a longer desk in the centre of the room, including a number of workstations, or putting desks in pairs to create islands.

Smaller chairs will also help to make the most of space and many of these are very comfortable. Moveable desks on castors are increasingly popular in smaller offices, because they make it easier to reconfigure the space as needed.

4

Avoiding Clutter and Improving Storage

To make a small office feel more spacious, it’s important to avoid clutter building up, and this means having enough storage. Modern office furniture can include many clever options for storage solutions, such as shelf units and desks with space to tuck cables away. The “paperless office” we were all promised some years ago may not have arrived just yet. But avoiding unnecessary printing can still help to prevent a buildup of unneeded paperwork which would only be shredded.

5

Shedding Some Light

Another way to create a greater sense of space is to ensure offices are well-lit, and avoid creating dark corners. This is key to keeping staff engaged and motivated and can also boost productivity. Basepoint’s offices are well-lit and also have large windows to make maximum use of light from outside. Light wall coverings can also help to reflect light within your company’s office.

Basepoint offers fully serviced office space across Sussex in Crawley, Haywards Heath, Shoreham and Newhaven. We keep our business centres constantly updated, for instance by refitting reception and breakout areas so they encourage people to linger.

If you take up office space in one of our centres, you can check with the management team about what changes you can make to your individual office. You can also benefit from use of the communal areas, as well as renting serviced meeting rooms.

To find out more about Basepoint’s range of managed offices, visit http://basepoint.co.uk/services/offices

Call us on 01293 817721

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

Digital Technology

The UK’s Rise in Self-Employment

Sussex Business Times investigates the rise in self-employment in the UK, and Sussex in particular Think about job growth and most people will picture big Focus employers hoovering up extra workers, but it’s the plucky start-ups that are the heroes of the UK’s jobs recovery. The number of people working for themselves has increased by over 20% since 2008, far outpacing the 4% rise in employee jobs. Their contribution to falling unemployment has been massive and the rising phenomenon of people starting out on their own has been overlooked for too long. Self-employment played a critical role early on in the teeth of the crisis, contributing to 16.4% of the UK’s overall employment level. Firms shed over half a million jobs between 2008 and 2010 as the recession hit. Yet self-employment expanded by 150,000 as people took their future into their own hands. That

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

counter-cyclical role is part of the reason issue. Today, one in ten working women unemployment rose less than had been are self-employed, closing the gap to feared. But its impact didn’t end there. men who historically have been much As growth returned and firms started more likely to work for themselves. hiring again you might Flexibility over working have expected selfarrangements is likely “Entrepreneurs employment to fall to be playing a role in are making a away. Instead we’ve this trend too, as the fantastically seen continued self-employed can gain important increases, even as the greater control over unemployment rate falls contribution to the when and where they to pre-recession levels. UK’s labour market. work.

So who are these new Flexibility is an There are now wave of entrepreneurs increasingly important 4.6 million selfand why are they theme in the labour employed people shunning the traditional market, lying at the ways of working? in the UK” heart of much of the Self-employment increase in male selfamongst women has grown three times employment too. Here, particularly strong as fast as men since 2008, rising by growth amongst men over the age of over 40%, fully proving what we were 65 shows how many people are using aiming to put across during our ’Women self-employment to smooth the transition in Business’ feature back in the July to retirement. That can be a very positive

Self Employment

thing, exploiting the skills and networks that a lifetime of employment has built up. But it can also be a sign of supplementing disappointing retirement income. With annuity rates at a record low that effect will increasingly be felt.

London is the centre of the UK’s selfemployment boom, seeing a staggering 40% increase since 2008; meanwhile one in three of the net new jobs created since 2008 has been in the capital.

However, this is also a genuinely national phenomenon. Self-employment growth has outstripped employee job growth in every region across the UK since 2008.

It is a response to economic conditions and to changing demands from workers.

Without it, the UK’s record-breaking job recovery would have been a lot weaker.

London has also leapt past Yorkshire & the Humber to take the first spot in NatWest’s Regional Economic Tracker, which tracks and monitors employment levels in 11 different regions across the UK, highlighting where the fastest job growth has taken place on a quarterly basis. Employment in the capital increased by 3.1% in 2015, comfortably ahead of the overall UK rate (1.9% rise) and the 2.6% increase in Yorkshire & the Humber, which finished at the top of the previous two Regional Economic Trackers.

Other regions of the UK – Wales, for example – also performed well, with employment rising by 2.9% over the last year, causing it to secure second place on the tracker.

As a result of these ongoing and improving performances from across the country, there has been 1.8 million more people in work in the UK since 2008, with one in three of these jobs based in the capital city of London and 800,000 in self-employment alone. This figure is set to prevail in coming years as the amount of support and advice offered to hopeful entrepreneurs and start-up businesses is also increasing – NatWest and SBT endeavour to help in a collaborative effort with this through the roundtable events. For example, hosting an entrepreneurship roundtable event back in May this year.

Senior Economist at NatWest, Sebastian Burnside commented: “Entrepreneurs are making a fantastically important contribution to the UK’s labour market. There are now 4.6 million selfemployed people in the UK, an increase of 800,000 since 2008 with women

accounting for 433,000 of these new jobs.”

Additionally, in the South East alone, employment growth has increased by 5.3% since 2008, and this region has seen a 25% increase in self-employed jobs as opposed to a 2.2% increase in regular employee jobs. Overall, 16.4% of the South East’s employment is made up of self-employment. Ranked in amongst the UK’s major towns and cities with regards to self-employment are Eastbourne, Worthing, Hastings, Brighton and Hove and Crawley – all of which made it within the top 10 locations for the highest share of self-employment across the whole country. Eastbourne demonstrates the highest share of any town in the country, with 21.5% of its employment being self-employment, showing it to be a very ‘entrepreneurial’ Sussex location. Worthing ranked second in the list with 21% of its employment being self-employment; Hastings with 19.5%; Brighton and Hove with 18.6% and Crawley at 17.8%, showing that South East and Sussex-based businesses are dominating the selfemployment sector.

Although self-employment levels in the UK and South East in particular

have been undoubtedly overshadowing regular employee jobs, we are uncertain as to how long this will continue, with an increase in regular jobs already starting to show. Sebastian concludes: “Over the course of the recovery, we have seen the pace of self-employment growth vary. At the beginning in 2009 and 2010, selfemployment was growing rapidly, even as firms were shredding jobs. However, with employers once again recruiting workers and unemployment levels now below 5%, we are starting to see the growth of employee jobs outstrip self-employment’s expansion.”

Sebastian Burnside, Senior Economist at NatWest.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

Lunch Review:

The Restaurant at Drakes

For this month’s review, Sussex Business Times’ Managing Director, Lee Mansfield took to Brighton to enjoy a luxurious lunch at The Restaurant at Drakes Upon walking into the beautiful setting of The Restaurant at Drakes, Review myself and my guest were led straight to the bar by the eager and keen-to-please staff, offering us cocktails to whet our appetites before we indulged ourselves in what was to be a delicious meal. The restaurant was relatively quiet, but this is expected for any restaurant on a Thursday evening, especially as the warm weather fades and we settle into the winter months.

The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was the tranquil setting and perfect location; close enough to the hustle and bustle of the city to not feel isolated, but far enough away from the commotion to enjoy a relaxing and peaceful evening.

Although Brighton is typically a busy city, our view of the calm waters from the seafront bar was enough to settle us in a relaxed sense of wellbeing straight away.

Having never eaten here before, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, however after finding out that The Restaurant at Drakes had achieved the highest score of all Brighton restaurants in The Good Food Guide for the 8th consecutive year, my expectations were high and I was looking forward to something very special.

After sipping our cocktails, we descended to the restaurant, where lowkey lighting and muted tones provided

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the perfect ambiance for a truly romantic meal, and I was eagerly anticipating the delights that would grace the menu. We were given menus by the pleasant and welcoming staff who patiently explained the contents of each dish, showing their full knowledge. We were also given an extensive elucidation of the wine list, which – with a little advice from our waiter – led us to our choice of the excellent Bacchus, from local, Sussex-based Albourne Winery Estate.

Now content with our beverages,

I took the chance to look around my surroundings, appreciating the modernlooking and, may I say, immaculate interior, putting myself and my guest at ease and making us feel completely at home, despite this being our first visit.

The attentive staff returned to take our order, which wasn’t an easy decision thanks to the plentiful menu. To start, I opted for the Tian of Selsey Crab, Avocado and Heritage Tomato Salsas and Gazpacho Sorbet, and my guest; the Fillet of Torched Mackerel on Kohlrabi

Tried and Tested in Sussex

and Fennel Salas with fresh Charentais Melon and Lemon Oil, both of which were caught locally. With a focus on supporting local producers, it was good to be made aware of the origins of the main ingredients of the dishes, and it was clear to see that only the best, seasonal ingredients are used. We found it pleasing that the restaurant waiting staff were fully informed about this and imparted this information to the guests. Both starters were exquisite, although my only minor complaint – if you can even call it that – was that the mackerel portion size was slightly too big for a starter, in my opinion anyway.

Our main courses were served to us soon after we devoured our starters, accompanied by outstanding service with a smile. For my main, I chose the Dry Aged Fillet of Beef, which was deliciously tender and cooked to absolute perfection, served with Horseradish, Potato Foam and Chargrilled Roscoff Onion, Romanesco and Chateaubriand sauce. My guest opted for the Noisette of Lamb and Herb Rolled Fillet, Creamed Fondant Potato, Carrot Puree and Rosemary Jus – served to an equally impeccable standard. The presentation of both dishes was superb, with flavours not failing to impress us further.

A welcome pause was left prior to the next course, which gave us the perfect amount of time to enjoy a few sips of wine and light conversation before being presented with our next course. Again, the food was delectable, and I didn’t think there was anything that could make the evening any more delightful. That was until they brought out a wonderful predessert, showing the full potential of the

very talented chefs employed at Drakes.

Instead of a sweet, my guest and I opted for a shared cheeseboard, hosting a wide array of local and European cheeses, which perfectly complemented our faultless meal. Our table was cleared almost immediately, demonstrating just how professional and efficient Drakes’ team of staff is.

After our meal, we were shown the private dining/meeting room, perfect for private functions, family meals or corporate dinners and demonstrating

that Drakes is much, much more than your average Brighton restaurant. On that note, I should also add that Drakes is the perfect venue for all occasions, including the festive season with their exclusive offer to SBT readers; book your corporate Christmas party at The Restaurant at Drakes and receive a complimentary bottle of Prosecco for every six people in the group – you can’t go wrong, and with a large group, you’ll be on your merry way!

The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, offering set menus that include several choices for each course. Lunch prices are from £20 for two courses, with dinner menus at £34 for two courses or £45 for three. Sunday lunch is always available and consists of a traditional roast dinner with a fine dining twist.

With flawless and welcoming service, perfectly prepared dishes and an atmosphere of relaxed glamour, The Restaurant at Drakes has proven to be an outstanding restaurant – I will certainly return and be spreading the good word to all.

Address: Drakes Hotel, 43-44 Marine Parade, Brighton BN2 1PE Telephone: 01273 696934 Web: drakesofbrighton.com

The Restaurant at Drakes - Reader offer!

Book your Corporate Christmas Party at THE RESTAURANT AT DRAKES and receive a Complimentary Bottle of Prosecco on arrival for every 6 people in the group. (Quote SBT to claim this offer) Call 01273 696934 | View our menu on www.drakesofbrighton.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

Hotel Review: The Charm, Brighton

Title Manager, Elliott Mansfield takes to Kemp Town to review the newest addition to the Brighton boutique hotel scene, The Charm The Charm Brighton Address: 20-21 New Steine, Brighton BN2 1PD Telephone: 01273 021085 Web: thecharmbrighton.co.uk

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Situated in the heart of Kemp Town in Brighton, The Review Charm posits itself as precisely what the name suggests: charming. Named as a luxury boutique hotel, it offers a mix between the traditional and the contemporary, with designer living standards throughout the 200 year old, Grade 11 listed building.

Upon arrival, I was initially impressed with the location (just 5 minutes walk from the city centre and seafront) and overall look of the building itself. From the outside to the lobby and reception, the building looked outstanding, especially seeing as though only just over a year ago the building was completely dilapidated. So I hoped there was more of this to come.

I was greeted by the Hotel Manager, Sergio who reassured me right from the start that my every wish was his command – my very own hotelier genie, no less. I was shown my room, which happened to be a king size family suite and, for want of a better word, it was enormous; the bed I could have slept on width ways and still had plenty of room.

The entirety of the space was luxurious and comfortable, and I felt at ease in my new surroundings right away. The bathroom, again, was finished to the highest of standards, with a Victorian style, free-standing bath and a large, rain-cloud esque shower head. Many of the 25 rooms here either open onto private gardens or have fantastic views of the seafront of Brighton. I had personal use of my own private court yard, which I used to soak up some rays in the hot Brighton summer sun before I headed

Tried and Tested in Sussex out for dinner. Yes, you read that right – unfortunately The Charm does not serve evening meals, which was something of a surprise to myself and my colleagues at the SBT HQ, and a shame. There aren’t many ‘boutique’ hotels these days that don’t offer some form of evening meal, so I hope they will address this in the future.

Having said that, Brighton offers such a wonderful variety of food establishments that I didn’t feel too hard done by.

The rest of my experience certainly made up for this little hiccup too. I was greeted mid afternoon during my sunbathing with a complementary bottle of prosecco, which I was thoroughly appreciative of, and my night’s sleep on my goose down feather pillow and duvet was wonderful! As I drifted off watching my 48 inch flat screen TV with satellite, I suddenly appreciated just how big the bed was that I was lying in - I could hardly even see my wife as she was so far away!

When morning arrived, we headed down for breakfast, which was neatly presented with a choice of pastries, chesses, cold meats, fruit, yogurt and cereal, also with a promise of locally sourced, fresh produce should you order a cooked breakfast. My wife had a full English and I went for Eggs Royale as I was feeling particularly regal. It was perfectly cooked with the eggs oozing out onto the salmon.

I found the hotel to be spotlessly clean throughout, and the ambiance is one of quiet and class. On my stay, I hardly saw another member staff apart from Sergio and his assistant, which although could make a guest feel a bit lonely or unattended to, it made me feel like the place was my own. I caught up with one of the owners of The Charm, Leo Nguyen to ask him some questions:

you an example especially in July, once we release a room as available, every day we received over 100 bookings and this happened for the first couple of weeks since our opening.We focus on customer service as the most important thing to attract customers so they can come back to us in future. We are the newest hotel in Brighton and have invested over £1M to convert these two listed buildings into a High class boutique hotel at a reasonable price.

“I found the hotel to be spotlessly clean throughout, and the ambiance is one of quiet and class”

How do you compete in such a competitive market such as Brighton?

We have a very experienced innovative PR company, plus we are also under the preferred programme with Booking. com and Expedia which insures we are on the first page of these and that makes it easy to achieve bookings. Just to give

What are the USPs and how do you promote them outside of the Brighton area?

Our main USP is the personal touch we provide customers from check in, during the stay, breakfast and checkout, including great customer support during their stay. We offer luxury boutique quality with bed and bed linen quality to match, toiletries, freshly cooked breakfast using local quality ingredients.

Promotion outside of Brighton has mostly been through word of mouth, our TripAdvisor reviews - which we are very pleased about - and our PR company, AHPR who have made sure that we are in the headlines with articles online, in

Magazines and Newspapers, locally and nationally including great use of social media on Facebook, Twitter, blogs and LinkedIn. How is it you don’t offer evening dining? Are there plans in the future for this?

We have no plans for evening dinner. We want to focus on what we are good at, which is bed and breakfast. Secondly, we have over 700 restaurants in Brighton & Hove and it will be good for our guests to go out and taste the wonderful variety of foods on offer in Brighton.

What corporate facilities and what corporate packages do you offer?

We provide free WiFi for the whole hotel, the breakfast room can change into a conference room and we have a table and chairs in all the rooms for business people so they can sit and do their work.

The corporate packages include 10/15% discounts for corporate firms and also staying 3 nights for the price of 2.

What is your professional history and what are your plans for the future?

We own many Real Estate properties in Vietnam including hotels in the Centre of Hanoi. We are also involved in Office leasing for 30 companies in Hanoi. The Charm, Brighton is the first hotel of a planned 7 venture destination hotels in the UK in the next few years. In fact our parent company is looking to buy a few more hotels in Brighton so watch this space.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

The Alliance of Chambers in East Sussex

ACES represents 4,000 members across the county and you are automatically a member of ACES if you are a member of one of the Chambers listed overleaf. This entitles you to share your news stories in these SBT business pages without charge - just contact your local chamber for more information

RSE Group Restores a Piece of History Due to remarkable growth over the last 5 years, RSE Group recruitment has moved to an interesting new location! Offering the same professional service as ever they are now based in the pub in John Cross!

Their brand new office has quite a history…

This weather boarded Inn was built in 1511 in the hamlet of John’s Cross, so named because it was a marshalling point for Crusaders under the banner of John the Baptist, whose emblem was incorporated in the Inn’s sign. The earliest recorded occupant was one Edmund Spicer in 1562.

Sometime following this period, ale was brewed on the premises and, in July 1694, the property was signed over to William Piper, a beer retailer of the parish of Battle.

In 1792, the Inn was extended to incorporate a dining room, which is now a brand new state of the art conference/meeting room. The RSE team are so excited to be restoring this beautiful property to its former glory as a Napoleonic Recruitment Office. During the Napoleonic War the widows and orphans of the parish were given shelter at the Inn and for many years it was used as a Customs & Excise office and a collection point

for the mail coaches.

In more recent times, the adjoining ‘studio’ has been used as an extra classroom for the local school and, in September 1939, as a distribution point for evacuated children from London, but is now the RSE brand new office!

Although they don’t brew their own ale, they do have a bar - a mini bar - under the boss’ desk (sssh don’t tell anyone) and they don’t plan on collecting your overdue taxes anytime soon! RSE has spent the last 3 months restoring The Studio which will be their main office and work continues

restoring this iconic building with locally sourced materials and local tradesmen too, ensuring the building’s integrity and history.

Many thanks for your support with all that we have done thus far and we, the RSE team look forward to welcoming you to the new office and providing the service you have come to expect, plus one or two added services.

Feel free to visit The RSE Group at The Studio, The Johns Cross Battle Start-Up Workshop Road, Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5JH. Tel: 01424 830000 www.rsegroup.agency

Eyes on the Cloud with Feet on the Ground Principal started as a small copier business nearly 30 years ago, but has grown and developed into a solutions provider for all things, print, IT and Cloud related. Diversifying to meet the needs of the rapidly changing technology market, Principal ensures that the experience and knowledge gained over 30 years will help find bespoke solutions to keep

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

their customers ahead of the technology curve.

Part of this journey has involved developing a team who are dedicated to keeping up with the very latest technical innovations. Mike Howard, Customer Service Agent, was originally a copier engineer but his technical skill means that he can understand and explain cloud

technology and secure networks. He now offers his knowledge as a value-add to help business find the perfect solution.

So, whether it’s a fleet of printers that’s required or a business need to keep precious data safe and sound in the cloud, Mike’s feet are well and truly on the ground as a support to a growing business.

Advert Nov_Layout 1 14/10/2014 12:38 Page 2

in East Sussex

Chamber News

ACES

TR Fastenings - Best Profits for 10 Years

Battle Chamber of Commerce

(A Trifast Company)

www.battlechamber.org.uk

F

ounded in a small rented office at the top of Uckfield High Street in 1973, Mike Timms and Mike Roberts established their business after becoming disenchanted working for a large industrial group in Birmingham that restricted their creativity and individualism.

However, the DotCom crash in 2001 devastated sales and profits in just a few short months, and the two Midlands factories had to be closed as the focus was intensified into Asia.

A change of senior management in 2007 and the 2008 recession resulted in the near collapse of the Company, with 2008 revenues down to £84m with substantial losses, and in They focused on sourcing and selling March 2009 the two previous retired CEOs industrial fastenings to light assembly (Malcolm Diamond and Jim Barker) were industries in the South East at a time when ex “We have used Principal for all our hesitate to recommend them to to our invited back by the shareholders rescue stock deliveries could take as long as three the business. printing needsweeks at the Eastbourne unLtd Members.” from the larger industry market leaders. Their core values10 were “look Chamber of Commerce for over years By 2010 profitability started to recover, as did professional, be professional, provide the share price. now. During that time they have given Christina Ewbank Chief Exec at outstanding service, sell on value rather than In 2011 a major automotive bolt theservice, cheapesteven price, keeping maintain dynamic cash us an excellent an www.eastbourneunltd.co.uk manufacturer was acquired in Malaysia, and management and motivate and take care 8 year old printer going with a speedy For more information talk to Steven in May 2014 a leading domestic appliance of your staff”.

breakdown service (almost daily) while we upgraded our systems. We wouldn’t

Pease on 0333 240 8130 or visit www.principal.co.uk

Bexhill Chamber of Commerce 01424 842892 www.bexhillchamber.co.uk Crowborough Chamber of Commerce www.crowboroughchamber.co.uk Eastbourne UnLtd Chamber of Commerce 01323 641144 www.eastbournechamber.co.uk East Sussex County Council 01273 481570 www.eastsussex.gov.uk Federation of Small Businesses 01424 754686 and Regional Office 01323 482018 www.fsb.org.uk/eastsussex Hailsham Chamber of Commerce

National Awards Win for Eastbourne Family Firm An independent, family-run business has won critical acclaim at a top national awards ceremony.

Eastbourne Car Auctions (ECA) took the highly commended spot in the prestigious CarMalcolm DealerDiamond Power MBE 2016 and Jim Barker awards. It was the only independent company short-listed in the Auction In 1978, manufacturing of specialist fasteners screw business in Italy was brought into was started in Uckfield, with is subsequent the Group.

House of the Year category, which established in Northampton and in the sale by auction a variety dominated byfactories national chains.

TR’s major customer of sectors includeof new, Telford in the 80’s.

Automotive, Appliances, pre-owned and Domestic commercial vehicles and A delighted ECA Managing Director, In the late 80’s, IBM selected TR as their most Electronics and Distributors – all of which are of only organic four auction Jon Mitchell said: “Car Dealersupplier is a highly eligible component to be trainedisinone enjoying growth. houses that zero defect/on timePower deliveries to a new has previously been recommended in the respected magazine and its In June 2014, TR announced the best sales, assembly facility that relied on “Just In Time” AA’s magazine, Dealer. awards are viewed with great interest profits and share price for a decade, now deliveries straight to their production line. withapproximately 1,150 staff spread 7,500 across 17vehicles countries.

It sells around the UK. The larger national Successful compliance led to TR being a Trifast Plc is based in Uckfield and along with single source with IBM, which then per year, which amounts tomanufacturing £22 million companies usually take supplier the major prizes, TR’s sales, distribution and attracted other major telecoms worth facilities of vehicles.

Sales arestaff held every so we were delighted to be singled out 1990’s surge As the on site. employs over 150 manufacturers to TR. The massive largest local employer, theevery Company LSE at 11am and Friday at for praise.” in the electronics sector carried it to a fullWednesday maintains close links with both the Uckfield listing as a PLC in 1994 named Trifast.

6pm. Chamber of Commerce a founder member “We pride ourselves on an in-depth 2000, turnover peakedgreat at £120m the Alliance of Chambers East Sussex The of company moved to itsincurrent knowledge of By the carsales auction world, sales, and by 2001 three component (ACES) and the local Community College. prestigious £3.5m Brampton Road attention to detail and fantastic customer factories had been established in Singapore, The College is the main annual provider of ‘A’ in 2012.

In addition the service,” Jon said.

“This is what makes us headquarters Malaysia and Taiwan, with sales and Level candidates for TR’s 2 year NVQto Business distribution facilities in Southern Ireland, modern Studies scheme. andApprenticeship flexible auction room, Jon one of the most popular auction houses Norway, Sweden, USA, Holland, Hungary and global uncertainty there is for clearly built a Despite café and a suite of offices small in the South East and more people China, plus why eight around the UK. a feeling amongst TR management and and start-up businesses. The offices each year come to us to sell and buy a The Company had become global by staff that there are grounds for cautious have been fully great work vast range of following vehicles.” its former UK based multinational optimism forlet theand futureprovide continuing growth key customers to lower cost economies spaces offor their10 business as sales forincluding year endeda companies, Car Dealer Production Editor, Dave March 2015 are forecast to reach overseas – mainly Asia and Central/ gym and Brown praisedEastern ECAEurope. for its award and £150karate million. club.

The move allowed Morrisons to acquire said the company was “part of an elite the old ECA site and open a supermarket, club that is doing the job properly as creating 300 new jobs. recognised by dealers.”

See www.ebca.co.uk for full details.

Eastbourne Car Auctions specialises

www.acesalliance.org

01323 310531 www.hailshamchamberofcommerce.co.uk

Hastings Chamber of Commerce 01424 205500 www.hastingschamber.co.uk Heathfield Chamber of Commerce 01435 865858 www.heathfieldchamber.co.uk The Institute of Directors 020 7766 8866 www.iod.com Lewes Chamber of Commerce 07917 382316 www.leweschamber.org.uk Locate East Sussex 0844 4159255 www.locateeastsussex.org.uk Newhaven Chamber of Commerce 0800 107 0709 www.newhavenchamber.co.uk Peacehaven Chamber of Commerce 01273 586222 www.peacehavenchamber.co.uk Seaford Chamber of Commerce 0800 881 5331 www.seafordchamber.co.uk South East Local Enterprise Partnership 01245 431469 www.southeastlep.com Uckfield Chamber of Commerce 01825 722607 www.uckfieldchamber.co.uk Wealden District Council 01323 443322 www.wealden.gov.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

Motoring

Test Drive All-new SUV, the MG GS

MG has certainly MG’s big selling point is the price: the been guilty of GS range starts from £14,995, which is £3,555 cheaper than the entry-level Comfort holding back in recent years when Qashqai. it comes to bringing Beyond that, the entry-level GS new models to models still get a respectable kit market. There list, with air-conditioning, automatic have only been two models from the headlights and cruise control all on company to speak board. Everything’s of for an almost looking good so far “With electric seats, uncomfortable amount for the MG GS, so DAB radio, climate of time, but now, finally, when it rolled into control, a rear parking the car park at SBT they have released the camera and an GS. Towers recently, we This is MG’s very first had the opportunity electronic parking SUV and it’s entered brake it’s not short of to take it for a full the market at an of testing. A frills and actually, the week extremely competitive proper chance to get GS offers a lot for the to know the car and price point. Possibly it’s closest rival is the to see if it’s a Qashqai ticket price” Qashqai from Nissan beater after all. and pound for pound, they are very First impressions of the MG GS are alike. The look, the space, economy that it gives you a very familiar driving and build quality are hard to split but position, when compared to its rivals.

54 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

There’s plenty of freedom to adjust the seat and steering wheel positions, so it’s relatively simple to get comfortable.

The drive itself isn’t bad if you’re noodling around town. It’s smooth at low speed and visibility is generally good. At higher speeds though, the GS feels a little unstable on the road.

It just doesn’t feel like it’s built for the motorway.

The only engine currently available for the GS is a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol with 164bhp, but you can choose between a manual or DCT dual-clutch automatic. If you keep to low revs, the engine is impressively quiet and wind/ road noise is as you’d expect from a tall SUV, but both are fairly inoffensive.

Compared to the 1.2-litre Qashqai, the GS’s 1.5-litre unit is competitive.

The problem is, the Nissan (like all of the other options in this class) is

available with a diesel option, which is punchier, cheaper to run and almost as quiet. The Qashqai’s entrylevel 1.2 manages over 55mpg.

There are no plans for a diesel MG GS yet, so the only option is the 46.3mpg and 139g/km petrol.

There’s plenty of space in the back, with lots of leg and head-room and the split seat options prove for a really adaptable and practical boot space. Lay the whole lot flat and you basically have a van!

Interior build quality isn’t bad.

The dash and centre console feels well built but the less-well-built plastic elements are a little of a disappointment. Overall, it doesn’t feel like an especially premium car on the inside, but with electric seats, DAB radio, climate control, a rear parking camera and an electronic

parking brake it’s not short of frills and actually, the GS offers a lot for the ticket price.

I think we’d all agree that the GS isn’t the best looking car in its class, but its huge bonnet, sleek light signature and flared arches give it an agile look.

The MG GS will appeal to most for its value for money, and that’s definitely its strongest point. It comes with a full 5-year manufacturer warranty too.

That’s not to be sniffed at.

Price: £19,495 Engine: 1.5-litre petrol 4 cylinder Transmission: 6-speed manual, frontwheel drive Power/Torque: 164bhp/250Nm 0-60mph: 9.6s Top speed: 118mph Economy/CO2: 46.3mpg/139g/km www.mg.co.uk

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 55

Motoring

Maserati Quattroporte The last Maserati that graced the SBT car park was Luxury the (then) all-new Ghibli: the first diesel car from the brand. At the time, there were big statements and even bigger promises coming from Maserati, suggesting a Porscheesque expansion of models.

Since then, we’ve seen some evidence of that expansion, with the announcement of the Levanti 4x4 and we hear that there’s more to follow.

For now though, we’re quite happy to take the keys of this, sixthgeneration Quattroporte - a car that heralds a new era for Maserati as it rings the changes heading into 2017, with substantial leaps in sales targets. Perhaps the least sexy fact about the Quattroporte is its name. It translates from Italian as ‘four door’, which perhaps, was necessary to clear up for Maserati fans when the first Quattroporte limo was introduced back in 1963.

The Quattroporte has an impressive amount of gadgetery and finery as standard, including full leather upholstery that extends to the dash and beyond, an 8.4in touchscreen interface, xenon lights, a rear-view camera and adaptive dampers (in the form of Maserati’s ‘Skyhook’ system).

It’s quite possibly one of the most comfortable cars you’ll ever travel in, with a wheelbase that stretches even beyond the Jaguar XJ’s. In fact, the Maserati Quattroporte S would stand as direct competition to the XJ, (certainly with their respective price tags) and whilst the Jag is a great car, there’s something a bit special about Maserati, and this car is no exception.

The petrol engine delivers an incredible-no-eye-watering performance and absolutely rivals the Mercedes AMG S-Class. There’s a

56 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

diesel option for 2016, which offers a financial benefit for the more sensible amongst us, but it doesn’t have quite the same magic as the V8 petrol, or its performance. To me, at least, it’s a no-brainer.

Whilst the drive is good, as you’d expect with such a high-class motor, the limit of the car’s grip can catch you off guard, appearing suddenly and without warning. On the rough surfaces that we enjoy on many of the roads connecting SBT Towers to the outside world, the chassis tended to snake around on the road, feeling slightly unsettled. That said, with the amount of grunt that the car delivers, especially when it’s firmly planted into sport mode, any car would struggle not to snake around a little.

Sport mode makes a lot of difference to the Quattroporte. The suspension stiffens, the throttle sharpens, gearshift speeds up and the exhaust valves open up. Acceleration from 0-62mph

takes just 4.7 seconds and there’s huge amounts of torque from under 2,000 rpm all the way up to 7,500 rpm.

The alleged top speed is 190 mph, and a deep growl from the exhaust means people will definitely hear you coming long before they see you.

It really is something rather special.

Economy: 16/23 mpg Tansmission: 8-speed auto Engine: Petrol Cylinders: V6 Price: £90 445 www.maserati.co.uk

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 57

SBTMotoring News Warning from the FTA States Depreciation of the Pound Delivers Hauliers 15% Financial Sanding Increase first vehicle, and from £3,700 to around £4,300 for each subsequent vehicle. In January 2016 the equivalent rates fell from £7,000 to £6,650, and from £3,900 to £3,700.

Ed Shepherd, Head of Member Advice at the FTA said: “The potential hike may create difficulties for hauliers as they now need to demonstrate to the Traffic Commissioners, the industry regulator, that they have over 15% greater reserves available.”

The post-Brexit fall in the value of the pound has meant road hauliers will have to demonstrate greater financial reserves to operate legally in the UK warns the FTA (Freight Transport Association).

Financial standing requirements for standard operator licence holders are stated in European law in Euros, and have traditionally been reassessed every year according to the exchange rate on the first working day of October, coming into force on 1st of January.

‘Financial standing’ is not a sum that has to be paid, but rather an indication that a business has such reserves readily and easily available.

Official figures will be announced by the Department for Transport in due course, but the FTA anticipates that the sums will change from £6,650 to around £7,800 for the

Not so Smart Drivers!

Kia Ends 2016 with a Host of Offers

Ford announces ‘Ford Driving Skills For Life’ programmes as survey shows that many students will text, talk and swipe whilst driving Research demonstrates that car crashes are the leading cause of death among young people, and in Europe, young people are almost twice as likely to be killed on roads compared with the average person.

Of those surveyed, 43 per cent admitted sending texts, 38 per cent swipe through apps, and 36 per cent take calls. Also, 60 per cent speed and 13 per cent drink drive.

By comparison, of those who left school at 18, 45 per cent admitted speeding, 9 per cent drink driving, and 41 per cent using their mobile phones while driving.

• 48 per cent said they would be tempted to drive a car overloaded with friends • 75 per cent would be tempted to drive after little or no sleep • 28 per cent would be tempted to get into a car driven by someone they knew had been drinking.

Ford UK’s Driving Skills for Life programmes are designed to tackle this huge problem. The nearest opportunity (to Sussex) to get involved is taking place at the Excel Exhibition centre in London on the 18th, 19th and 20th of November 2016, with a morning and afternoon session on each day. Registration is now open at forddsfl.co.uk

58 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

£1,000 off when you take a test drive plus a chance to go to the Australian Open. Improved finance deals for the Picanto and Sportage & £500 towards Kia accessories for Caravan Club members As Kia heads into the fourth quarter of the year, the Korean car brand continues to offer its customers a substantial £1,000 off the purchase of a new car when they choose to take a test drive of selected models in the Kia

range between 1 October and 31 December 2016.

Customers who test drive any Kia model before the end of November will also be entered into a draw to win an all-expenses-paid trip Down Under to see the men’s semifinals of the Australian Open, which Kia Motors has proudly sponsored since 2002. This offer is available on all models, nationwide across Kia’s 188 dealerships.

Rolls Royce Opens its First Studio in Asia The new Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Studio, which opens on 1 November, is the first of its kind in Asia and the only Rolls-Royce facility in the world to offer closed-course test-drives Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, has officially opened the new Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Studio in South Korea, only the second permanent Studio for the marque worldwide after the ‘Atelier’ at the Home of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Goodwood, Sussex.

The ‘Atelier’ cossets guests in luxury surroundings reminiscent of

Goodwood, bringing a flavour of the Home of Rolls-Royce to South Korea. Displays allow visitors to appreciate first-hand the depth of luxurious detailing that goes into crafting a Rolls-Royce and the wealth of Bespoke possibilities offered, with an extensive range of examples of the wood, leather, paint and features available for their motor car. They will even be able to commission a Bespoke Rolls-Royce should they wish.

Guests will also have the opportunity to drive a variety of Rolls-Royce models on the facility’s 2.6 km closed circuit and surrounding roads.

A venue like no other Walk on air

Now open on Brighton beach, British Airways i360 offers exclusive events in the futuristic glass pod and a range of contemporary and flexible event rooms with private beachside terraces and sea views.

Conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects

For details visit BritishAirwaysi360.com or call 01273 448 370 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 59

Berforts Ltd if you’re buying print, please make sure you talk to us

17 Burgess Road, Hastings, East Sussex TN35 4NR Please mention the Lithographic printing 60 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

Sheet-fed digital printing

Sussex Business Times magazine when contacting us

Berforts Ltd f you’re buying print, please make sure you talk to us

g

nting

inting

Lithographic printing Sheet-fed digital printing B&W digital web printing Print on demand Variable data printing Print finishing

Please mention Sussex Business Please mention the Sussex Business Times magazine Times when when contacting us contacting us

Mailing and fulfilment

b a w

Worldwide distribution

ng

nt

tion

berforts

17 Burgess Road, Hastings, East Sussex TN35 4NR. Tel: 0142 a world of print

ltd

Email: sales@berfor

ngs, East Sussex TN35722733 4NR. Tel: 01424 722733. Fax: 01424 721777 01424 • sales@berfort.co.uk • www.berforts.co.uk

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 61

Email: sales@berfort.co.uk · www.berforts.co.uk

SBT

ASK THE

SBT Ask the Experts is sponsored by

EXPERTS

WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

EXPERT

John Shaw, CEO, Sea Change Sussex How have local businesses reacted to the referendum outcome? Will it put a stop to economic growth?

We’re finding the business mood remains confident and upbeat. Local companies are still ambitious about growing and generating jobs and many are still looking for high-quality premises to provide the space to expand and to create the right professional image.

The debate rumbles on about the impact the Brexit vote is likely to have on local businesses, and these are questions I’m regularly being asked about the East Sussex economic development programme Sea Change is running.

EXPERT

In October I will be presenting at our Finance Focus events in Gatwick and Fontwell about recent changes in Corporation Tax and how they will impact

info@checkaprofessional.com 62 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

Are we doing anything to help companies as a result of the Brexit vote?

Despite the upbeat mood, the Brexit decision inevitably poses firms with some uncertainty about the road ahead - and it’s making business forecasting tougher for everyone. We’re doing what we can to help by offering ultra-flexible leases for our small offices available in Eastbourne, Hastings and Bexhill.

Innovatively, these leases now

incorporate a three-month notice period, which businesses can serve any time – giving them unprecedented freedom to respond to market changes as they unfold. This is shaking up the commercial property market somewhat, but we’ve had an extremely positive reaction from occupiers.

Ultimately, what do we think the future holds for economic growth in East Sussex?

While Brexit brings some uncertainty over the exact nature of future economic growth, we’re confident the future’s bright for the local firms with the ambition, energy and vision to keep succeeding and expanding. That’s good for them, good for jobs and good for the county as a whole.

Visit www.seachangesussex.co.uk, call 01424 858 287 or email info@ seachangesussex.co.uk

Daniel Grainge, Tax Partner, Spofforths all companies, in particular ownermanaged companies.

Following the vote to leave the EU and the change in Chancellor we do not know whether the previously announced reductions in the rate of Corporation Tax from 20% to 17% (with effect from April 2020) will actually come into force.

We may find that, to increase the UK’s competitiveness globally, Corporation Tax rates will reduce further and quicker than expected which would be great news for small companies, as suggested by George Osbourne immediately after the referendum.

There are also supposed to be changes to the way in which a company’s losses can be used, which are likely to give more flexibility for small companies. Currently trading losses can only be offset against other profits in the same year, and then

carried forward and offset against future profits for the same trade. It is expected that unused trading losses will be carried forward and will be available to reduce profits from any source (for example interest and capital gains), not just future trading profits.

Companies (or groups of companies) with profits of more than £5m will be limited in their use of brought forward losses, meaning they will not be able to reduce their profits by more than 50%. For small companies, these changes will offer more flexibility and make the rules relating to losses more straight forward.

If you would like to find out more about the tax changes affecting business, please join us at one of our Finance Focus Seminars. www.spofforths.co.uk/about-us/events

0808 901 9042

SBT

ASK THE

SBT Ask the Experts is sponsored by

EXPERTS

WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

EXPERT

Sophie Shepherd, Sales Manager, British Airways i360 visualise the feel of your event. Identify how many people will attend, what your budget is, when you would like to host the event and ideal location. Think about the style of event – is it a board meeting with lunch or a large seminar with networking opportunities and gourmet dinner? Think about how the event can tie into any existing marketing campaigns.

deliver that ‘wow’ factor. It can be difficult to get a feel for what’s possible on a blank canvas and the venues can help provide inspiration to elevate your event.

Delegates always remember the food and drink served so talk to your venue about ways to elevate the catering experience, such as bespoke menus.

Anything else to think about?

Work with the venue to create a master event plan and running order for the day.

Allow time to brief everyone involved in delivering your event. Remember that even with the best laid plans, there are almost always last minute challenges that occur and this is when a strong venue events team really adds value.

I’m thinking of putting on an event.

Where do I start?

Firstly, be clear on your objectives.

Spending time on agreeing your objectives with key decision makers will save so much time during the planning stages and provide you with a benchmark against which to gauge the success of your event.

I know what I want, but how do I choose a venue?

The venue is going to be one of the largest costs in your event budget, so make sure you look at several options. Getting quotes is the first step but nothing beats getting a feel for the space, meeting the team that would help deliver your event and deciding if the event space represents good value (as opposed to just being the cheapest!)

Great, so what next?

Pull together your brief and begin to

How do I make it memorable?

Talk to venues and seek advice on how to

EXPERT

David Bywater, Senior Partner for KPMG’s South East office EU, Brexit has raised a question mark over the UK’s ability to do business and, as a result, businesses of all sizes should be thinking about contingency planning.

Whilst the majority of business leaders are confident about the future growth of the country (69%), the global economy (86%) and their own businesses (86%), over half (57%) of the business leaders we spoke to believe the UK’s ability to do effective business will be hindered after leaving the EU. Ultimately, it is important to look at your business closely and plan different scenarios to hedge against future disruption.

Is Brexit really going to be bad for the economy and my business?

Despite largely voting to remain in the

info@checkaprofessional.com

What are the areas of my business that I should be protecting?

It depends on the size of your business, the terriroties and sector you operate in. As a tax specialist, the main areas

sophie.shepherd@british airwaysi360.com www.BritishAirwaysi360.com 01273 448370

of interest include the use of the UK as a holding company jurisdiction, the impact on the customs duties and reliefs in the supply chain, and the tax impact of restructuring being brought about by other changes such as the loss of regulatory passporting under some Brexit scenarios. Of course, other features of Brexit will have a knock-on effect so it is important to factor tax consequences into any wider growth plans.

Smaller businesses will have concerns around how future freedom of movement rules could impact their access to workers and talent, but many entrepreneurs are looking at Brexit as an opportunity to use their agility to disrupt their larger competitors and are thinking seriously about what they have to sell abroad as the fall in sterling makes exporting a more attractive proposition.

0808 901 9042 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 63

Networking in Sussex

SBT

Society Berry Pomeroy celebrates!

On Monday 19th September at 6.30 pm, Berry Pomeroy hosted an evening of celebration at The View Hotel in Eastbourne.

Co-organised and hosted by Sussex Business Times, we were proud to attend the exclusive event to celebrate the recent overhaul of the communal lounge and garden room at Berry Pomeroy, which we have covered in previous issues.

The evening was in order to celebrate the handful of local businesses that recently joined forces to refresh the communal areas of the charitable residential care home, which is located at the west end of Eastbourne’s promenade. All the businesses who have been involved were thanked with a lovely bouquet of flowers and a thank you card, whilst enjoying drinks and a chat with like-minded businesspeople.

The event was a perfect example of what can be achieved when the Sussex business community works together. Many thanks to all those who attended.

64 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

introducing...

Snack Box

healthy snacks for the office

Water Coolers, Boilers & Zip Taps for your office

The Edgar’s Snack Box offers nutritious, low calorie snacks, which helps keep metabolism charged and energy levels high whilst satisfying cravings.

£5 off your first order call now to claim your discount code 0844 579 3999

Residential Lettings & Management

“passionate about property” We are looking for Landlords and Tenants now.

Ginger & Sanders offer competitive packages to suit your requirements.

For landlords, we are offering highly competitive fees within our fixed band charges. If you are potential tenant, we offer an experienced team, long opening hours, coupled with very high professional standards.

Let a professional look after your property.

Sanders is an award-winning family run company that specialises in providing the highest standards of residential property management for landlords, residents associations and property developers.

We currently work with a number of residential blocks and estates throughout Eastbourne and surrounding areas and understand the needs and requirements of the local residents.

We are proud to Support Berry Pomeroy Residential Care Home

Call in and see us now, all are welcome.

Proud to Support Berry Pomeroy Residential Care Home 185A Langney Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN22 8AH

01323 701702 • www.gspropertyrentals.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 65

Please call 01323 736442 or visit www.sanderspm.com

Made In Sussex

Made In Sussex:

Steamer Trading

Our celebration of businesses ‘Made in Sussex’ continues and in this issue, Sussex Business Times takes a look at one for the Bake Off fans out there – Steamer Trading

Steamer Trading is a family-owned, Brand independent chain of specialist cook Focus shops, with its very first store opening in Alfriston, East Sussex back in October 1985 by Liz and David Phillips, parents of Steamer Trading’s current Managing Director, Ben Phillips.

Specialising in everything centered around the preparation and enjoyment of food and, of course, drink, Steamer Trading offers anything and everything you could ever want for your kitchen.

Looking for a new life challenge, Liz and David tracked down the secretive owner of an empty row of cottages along Alfriston’s high street and eventually persuaded him to accept an offer.

Used by the Victorians as a pub – the Steamer Inn – and full of old beams and fireplaces, the building was theirs and the first decision to be made was of what to sell. The name of the shop was easy – Steamer, after the Steamer Inn, and Trading, a reference to Alfriston’s less-than-illustrious history as a centre for commerce. Liz and David realised they didn’t need to look any further than their own backgrounds and enthusiasm for an idea for the empty building – David’s expertise in homewares and design, acquired from his earlier career in the 1950s with Finnish Designs was a huge influence on their decisions.

Now with over 400 members of staff across all of their locations, Steamer Trading’s store network stretches from Glasgow in the North, to Truro in the South West, and Ipswich and Canterbury out to the East. Now with a network of 38 stores, Steamer Trading also owns 3 cook shops in Bath, Bristol and Cardiff as well as a world-famous Divertimenti shop and cookery school based in Knightsbridge, London. The core of the business is selling kitchen

66 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

“Steamer Trading is a family-owned, independent chain of specialist cook shops, with its very first store opening in Alfriston, East Sussex back in October 1985” tools and cookware, which remains their unchanged speciality. Although, on occasion, their stores have extra space available, much of which has been transformed into small but convenient coffee shops wherever possible, giving customers a break from the hustle and bustle of a day’s shopping. As a part of this on-the-side service, Steamer Trading have partnered with local businesses such as The Real Eating Company, who run coffee shops for their Lewes, Eastbourne and Horsham stores.

The world has moved on significantly since the opening of their first store in 1985, but Steamer Trading’s team of staff continue to necessitate certain changes, whilst demonstrating an unwavering

dedication to excellence in care and customer service - as well as commitment to offering the very best products for homes and kitchens. All the while keeping in mind the original ethos instilled by Liz and David, Steamer Trading now embraces modern ways with an online shop and by engaging with customers over social media, now with the ability to spread the word and their products across the nation – quite a change from one small store in Alfriston.

For more information, go to www.steamer.co.uk, or visit their Facebook and Twitter pages: www.facebook.com/steamer.trading. cookshop/ www.twitter.com/steamertrading

WHO AM I DEALING WITH?

Let Your REPUTATION DO YOUR MARKETING FOR YOU!

ARE THEY INSURED?

SATISFIED CLIENTS?

EXPERIENCE?

Brought to you courtesy of our sister company

QUALIFICATIONS HELD?

ESTATE AGENTS MORTGAGE BROKERS FINANCIAL ADVISERS LEGAL SERVICES OPTICIANS SOLICITORS COSMETIC SURGEON SURVEYORS HAIR & BEAUTY ACCOUNTANTS THERAPISTS DENTAL VETS IT

Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ Δ

Today, clients are looking for an informed choice when choosing a professional service and Checkaprofessional’s new online service is providing just that.

The Checkaprofessional website will give instant access to all professional service providers who have agreed to be vetted by us and continuously monitored by their clients, who can post verified feedback on the site. It will provide a FREE one-stop shop to finding the right professional service for a client’s particular needs.

Find out about the unique advantages Checkaprofessional membership could provide for your online marketing. www.checkaprofessional.com

0808 901 9042

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 67

68 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk