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L I V E R P O O L
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LDP BUSINESS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 ISSUE 06
P O S T
M A G A Z I N E
09 IS THERE A
SILVER LINING?
INTERNATIONAL TRADE
SPOTLIGHT
ON INDIA
HOT 100 THE FASTEST GROWING REGIONAL BUSINESSES
UNDER THE
HAMMER AUCTION
MARKET
HOTS UP
SPORTECH’S
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ROAD TEST: JAGUAR’S NEW SEXY SPORTY XF REVIEWED
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02_03_contents
28/11/08
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New Shows at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall THE RAT PACK PACO PEÑA: REQUIEM LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS FOR THE EARTH Monday 5 January 7.30pm
THIS IS SOUL FEATURING GENO WASHINGTON & THE RAM JAM BAND AND PP ARNOLD Saturday 17 January 7.30pm
PAUL CARRACK
FEATURING SENSE OF SOUND CHOIR Friday 27 February 7.30pm
AFRICAN SOUL REBELS 2009 BAABA MAAL, OLIVER MTUKUDZI & EXTRA GOLDEN Wednesday 4 March 7.30pm
Saturday 24 January 7.30pm
BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB® PRESENTS
BEYOND THE BARRICADE
ELIADES OCHOA
10TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW Sunday 1 February 7.30pm
ERROL BROWN FAREWELL TOUR Saturday 7 February 7.30pm
BARBARA DICKSON Monday 9 February 7.30pm
CANDI STATON
Friday 20 February 7.30pm
Thursday 5 March 7.30pm
LEMAR
Tuesday 17 March 7pm
ON TOUR: SONGS OF DAVID BYRNE AND BRIAN ENO Friday 3 April 8pm
SOLID SILVER 60s FEATURING: THE SEARCHERS, THE MERSEYBEATS, WAYNE FONTANA & SPECIAL GUEST JOHN WALKER Saturday 4 April 7.30pm
THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR Sunday 19 April 7.30pm
A CELEBRATION OF THE MUSIC OF
HANK WILLIAMS FEATURING CARL CHASE Friday 24 April 7.30pm
TUNNG WITH TINARIWEN CHRIS DE BURGH Sunday 22 March 7.30pm
Monday 27 April 7.30pm
JACKSON BROWNE
ROB BRYDON
Saturday 28 March 8pm
RUSSELL WATSON Monday 30 March 7.30pm
www.liverpoolphil.com Box Office 0151 709 3789
DAVID BYRNE
Tuesday 28 April 7.30pm
ANDY PARSONS Thursday 7 May 8pm
02_03_contents
1/12/08
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LDP
BUSINESS
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Editor’s Comment Bill Gleeson on the recession
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News Drink maker Lambrini’s Xmas push
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The Big Interview Ian Penrose - Sportech
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Corporate Deals All the key transactions
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The Big Feature
January February.09
Prospects for 2009 plus Hot 100
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040
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How I Launched My Own business Rob Smith on navigating the downturns
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Science and Technology Liverpool Science Park phase 2
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Legal Sector Dealing with fraud
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International Trade Opportunities in India
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Commercial Property Auctions market gets competitive
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How Green Is Your Business Fit-out firm goes hybrid
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Corporate Social Responsibility Benefits of doing the right thing
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Education Masters courses launched
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Economic Review Focus on Knowsley
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Ask the Expert Creative Industries
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Social Diary
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City hosts major conference Carolyn Hughes business social diary
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Essential dates for your diary
And...
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FREE inside this edition of LDP Business your copy of WIN WIN, the international business magazine for the north west produced by UK Trade and Investment
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WWW.LDPBUSINESS.CO.UK
The Networker The List Corporate Entertainment A day at the races
Business Lunch Tucking in at the Racquet Club
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Top Tipple The best festive wines
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Executive Motors Barry Turnbull test drives the Jaguar XF
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Business Travel Sampling Glasgow’s culture
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Notworker Laura Doyle’s yuletide tips
04_05 editors
28/11/08
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Invest in the future Monday 26th January 2009
Life can sometimes be a little unpredictable, but an education at Merchant Taylors’ Schools is a great start to a young life. We are passionate about education and understand the importance of the next few years in your child’s development. We have the best facilities and are proud of our outstanding exam results. To be part of our success, call us and book a place in our 11+ entrance exam.
Boys’ Schools 0151 949 9333 Girls’ Schools 0151 932 2414 Limited places are available in other year groups from Reception through to Sixth Form, contact the schools for more details 08/09 Term Fees Infant and Junior Schools £2,004 Senior Schools and Sixth Form £2,727
www.merchanttaylors.com The Best Education For Life
Senior Boys | Senior Girls | Junior Boys | Stanfield Mixed Infants & Junior Girls The Merchant Taylors’ Schools, Crosby: a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England: Company Number: 6654276. Registered office: Liverpool Road, Crosby, Liverpool L23 0QP. Registered Charity Number: 1125485
04_05 editors
28/11/08
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EDITOR’S LETTER
www.ldpbusiness.co.uk
LDP
BUSINESS EDITOR
Bill Gleeson billgleeson@dailypost.co.uk DEPUTY BUSINESS EDITOR
Tony McDonough tonymcdonough@dailypost.co.uk
BUSINESS FEATURES EDITOR
Barry Turnbull barry.turnbull@liverpool.com WRITERS
Alistair Houghton alistairhoughton@dailypost.co.uk
Alex Turner alex.turner@liverpool.com SENIOR ART EDITOR
Rick Cooke DESIGN
Colin Harrison Tracy Smith Charlie Hearnshaw Matthew Barnes PICTURE EDITOR
Richard Williams MARKETING EXECUTIVE
Litza Gorman 0151 472 2352 ADVERTISEMENT DIRECTOR
Debbie McGraw SALES MANAGER
Frank Notton
THE festive season is upon us and I don’t want to put a damper on things, but… Not even the most optimistic forecasters think 2009 is going to be a good year. The real question for next year is when will the silver lining come into view? While parts of Liverpool’s economy are better protected against recession than used
be 2.25%, we would be getting away with it lightly. There is the potential for the downturn to be considerably more severe than that. Britain’s economic growth in the past 16 years has been largely built on financial services in the City of London and a consumer boom. Both have occured on the back of unsustainable levels of debt. In the corporate sector there were some
The real question for 2009 is when will the silver lining come into view? to be the case, the truth is it will still hurt. The new Echo Arena and BT Convention Centre and Grosvenor’s Liverpool One shopping development are undoubtedly bringing new trade to the city, that won’t make much difference to manufacturing businesses in Kirkby or Bromborough. These are firms that need to look beyond the region for their market place for sales. And talking of optimistic forecasters, Chancellor Alistair Darling could well have to revise already negative growth figures he issued in last month’s pre-Budget statement. His worst case prediction − that − the economy will shrink by 1.25% in 2009 looks a bit hopeful. If the actual figure turns out to
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businesses that managed to keep going despite the fact they were bad at what they did. There are those that think the country needs a recession to allow us all to take stock of the way we do business and the way we run our economy. That is harsh, and certainly doesn’t apply to some of the businesses that have already gone bust locally, for example Greenberg Glass and David Mclean. But clearly, if government and regulators around the world get it right, there is a chance to build our house on firmer foundations than in the past.
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06_07news
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“I remember my dad playing the pools, and me and my two brothers fighting over who filled in the coupon, because we all thought we knew best”
QUOTE
IAN PENROSE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF FOOTBALL POOLS OPERATOR, SPORTECH
OF THE MONTH
Lambrini launches Xmas push KIRSTY DOYLE LEADS DRINK CAMPAIGN
Fashion designer Kirsty Doyle
A scene from this year’s Lambrini TV advertising campaign
Liverpool fashionista Kirsty Doyle is spearheading a Christmas campaign for party drink Lambrini. The designer has linked up with drinks firm Halewood International for a series of promotions that will include a star-studded fashion show in the city. Advertising is also being taken on internet search engine sites in support of the campaign which follows a £5m promotions push on television during the summer. Senior brand manager for Lambrini, Caroline Reynolds, said: “This programme is the latest stage in our efforts to recruit new consumers to the brand and reactivate lapsed consumers and we are confident that the combination of product innovation with strong advertising support and point of sale initiatives will put our retail customers in a strong position to drive sales of the brand.” Ms Doysle will also be running promotions in national celebrity magazines in conjunction with Lambrini. The Christmas campaign follows a number of developments for the brand this year, including the launch of Lambrini Still in a 3-litre box format. The wine and spirit supplier announced a £5m spend on a new UK TV advertising campaign in July to promote Lambrini. The two 20-second and 10-second commercials aired throughout August and featured a comic “Do the Lambrini” dance. Kirsty Doyle began her working life at Great Homer Street market before getting noticed by winning TV's Project Catwalk in 2006.
City hotels could face tough time in 2009
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Capital of Culture’s success could leave a hangover effect for 2009 with news that advance hotel bookings are 37% down on last year. Some hoteliers fear that not enough has been done to make sure that the momentum generated by 2008 carries through to next year.
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Jobs gloom
TRADERS UNITE More than 80 businesses in the Old Swan district of Liverpool have formed an association to attract more customers in the face of the economic downturn. The Old Swan Business Association will produce and distribute a business directory to 14,000 homes.
Greenberg Glass fell into administration, Urban Splash slashed 60 jobs and both Vauxhall and Jaguar are facing cuts. The BP/Castrol plant in Ellesmere Port is to close with the loss of nearly 100 jobs. The oil giant intends to shut the Stanlow site and transfer work to plants in Europe which would then provide lubricants for the UK market.
SHIRTS SLASHED Everton Football Club’s official retail partner, JJB Sports, is slashing the cost of the club’s replica shirts by two thirds in the run up to Christmas. The troubled retail chain said that, in the light of the credit crunch, it felt a cut in the price of the merchandise was appropriate.
Work starts Ryanair may Work has started on a £1.275m scheme to redevelop the former Widnes Town Hall building after developer Bridge Leisure secured bank funding. The redevelopment of the landmark 123-year-old building involves the creation of a small boutique hotel, a function room, a bar and restaurant.
Happy Shoppers The British Council of Shopping Centre’s annual conference at Liverpool’s BT Convention Centre generated an estimated £1.5m for the city’s economy. Almost 3,000 delegates attended the three-day event, which is the biggest annual gathering of the retail property industry in the UK.
www.ldpbusiness.co.uk
IN BRIEF
cut JLA routes after tax hike Budget airline Ryanair is considering whether to cut routes from Liverpool John Lennon Airport (JLA) in the wake of November’s pre-Budget statement. The airline said it could be forced to scale back its services from Liverpool following changes to Air Passenger Duty announced by Chancellor Alistair Darling. At a specially-called press conference at JLA, airline chief operating officer Michael Cawley lashed out at the tax hikes, saying fewer passengers would book flights in the UK as ticket costs rise.
WORKERS’ WINDFALL
Ryanair hopes to grow its total passenger numbers by another 10m in 2009, but Mr Cawley said that growth was likely to be in countries with more favourable tax regimes. Mr Cawley warned routes from Liverpool could be cut and aircraft currently stationed there shifted from the Speke aerodrome. The pre-Budget report introduced three new bands of APD. The starting level will be £11 on tickets to destinations within 2,000 miles of London, £45 for flights of up to 6,000 miles and £55 above that.
About 150 Merseyside workers at cash and carry firm Parfett’s have been given a stake in the business. The family firm is handing over ownership to employees in two phases, spread over the next eight years.
STEAMING AHEAD Steam cleaning and technology specialist Proventec has its eyes on more acquisitions, despite posting a first-half loss. The Liverpool company saw turnover rise 41% to £8.18m for the six months to September 30.
DEMERGER TALK Warrington’s TalkTalk broadband operation could be changing hands after owner Carphone Warehouse confirmed it was considering a demerger. TalkTalk has proved a hit since its launch in 2003, and now has 2.8m customers.
Cruise row
What credit crunch?
Thomson Cruises pulled a 30 strong programme of voyages from Liverpool after failing to reach an agreement over amenities at the new terminal at Princes Parade. It is understood they were unhappy about the lack of baggage-handling facilities.
Liverpool-based wealth management group Rensburg Sheppards shrugged off the difficult market conditions to announce a 9% rise in half-year profits. The firm, which began life in Liverpool in 1873, and still employs 190 people at its city centre office, recorded pretax profit of £16.4m for the six months to September 30. M A G A Z I N E
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08_10 news
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LDP
NEWS
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NEW HOTEL FOR BUSINESS DISTRICT An international hotel operator is about to be announced for a new 150 bedroom venue in Liverpool's business district. The seven storey hotel will be constructed on vacant land behind the office building Yorkshire House which lies at the junction of Chapel Street and Rumford Place. News of the planned development represents a U-turn for entrepreneur Simon MatthewsWilliams who told the Daily Post earlier this year that he would no longer be focusing on city centre hotels. He explained: “I was of the opinion that I would not be coming back into Liverpool and would concentrate on ventures outside the city. “However, the buzz this year, coupled with the terrific impact the arena and convention centre has, made me have a change of heart. “I think a hotel located right at the heart of the business district offering value for money at around £65 a night will do very well. “I realise that 2009 might be a hard year but we are planning to open for the Grand National 2010 when, hopefully, things will be looking up.” Mr Matthews-Williams introduced the Crowne Plaza brand to Liverpool a decade ago and now has a portfolio that includes Hoole Hall at Chester, the King's Gap in Hoylake, where he is investing £7m, and the West Tower country house near Ormskirk. He added: “Even in a downturn, hotels will always do business. Occupancy levels may fall for a time but I believe in being prepared for when it turns around.”
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Could it be magic? MANILOW AND TAKE THAT STUDIO GETS A REPRISE AS LEISURE SPOT THE studio where stars like Barry Manilow and Take That recorded has been converted to the city's latest leisure hot spot. Studio 2 in Parr Street Studios is now a breakfast bar in the morning and a tapas and dim sum events lounge in the evening. By day, it is an events and conference venue. Parr Street directors, Gary Millar and Steve Macfarlane, are behind the scheme.
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Gary said: "It could still be used as a live recording venue or for small concerts but we are also targeting corporate events." Ian Cook, TV’s “Come Dine With Me” Liverpool winner, is in charge of catering and uses organic and locally-sourced products. The last artists to use Studio 2 were Atomic Kitten who recorded Cilla Black’s hit “Anyone Who Had A Heart” for charity.
08_10 news
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CL3 Design & Marketing The Old Bank Of England Building, 31 Castle Street, Liverpool, L2 4GL
E
T
0151 236 5797
W
www.cl3.co.uk
agency@cl3.co.uk
08_10 news
28/11/08
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LDP
NEWS
BUSINESS
John Syvret, Managing Director of Cammell Laird
Famous shipping name revived CAMMELL LAIRD NAME RETURNS TO BIRKENHEAD BIRKENHEAD’S thriving shipyard is reviving memories of maritime glories with the return of the Cammell Laird name. The company had been in business as Northwestern Shiprepairers and Shipbuilders (NSL) but has switched to Laird’s at a time of good fortune, courtesy of a £1bn deal with the Ministry of Defence and a tie-up with major Italian yard, Fincantieri. The old Cammell Laird business went into receivership when an Italian cruise company, Costa Crociere, cancelled what was to have been a life-saving contract in 2001. Managing director, John Syvret, said the name change would raise the international profile of the business. He said: “The reality is that, whenever we’re talking to customers, employees or suppliers, people always asked where NSL was. “When we said Cammell Laird, they said ‘we know where you are’. Everybody knows Cammell Laird. 10 M A G A Z I N E
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They know this yard as Cammell Laird. “NSL has done a fantastic job and it’s built up a very enviable reputation in the refit, conversion and ship repair market in the UK. “It’s a massive brand and our intention is to use the power of that brand to catapult the company into the international marketplace.” In June, NSL won a contract with the Ministry of Defence for the maintenance of Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships, potentially worth up to £1bn over 30 years. Mr Syvret said the yard would now look to grow its marine services business in international ship building, refits, repairs and conversions. Wirral Council leader Steve Foulkes said the name change
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was “fantastic news”. He said: “The council has always been of the opinion that ship repair has a place in Birkenhead. “We have argued consistently for that to be the case and have been delighted at the success of NSL. “We remain committed to supporting Cammell Laird and look forward to its continued resurgence.”
The Cammell Laird name has an international profile
08_10 news
28/11/08
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Moving away from a lit igat ion cult ure
Rob Vondy Acas Area Direct or, Liverpool
D e a l i n g w i t h d i sa g r e e m e n t s a t w o r k : are you ready for t he change?
The St at ut ory Disput e Resolut ion procedures t hat were int roduced in Oct ober 2004 are t o be repealed. This news m ay invoke som e raising of eyebrows am ong t he Merseyside business com m unit y, aft er all it seem s like only yest erday t hat t he governm ent was heralding t he 2004 regulat ions as t he m eans t o prom ot e t he resolut ion of disput es in t he workplace rat her t han in t he law court s. These regulat ions int roduced a t hree- st ep disciplinary and grievance procedure which at t he m om ent em ployers and em ployees m ust com ply wit h before going t o an em ploym ent t ribunal. A subsequent governm ent review found t hat t he t hree- st ep procedures oft en m eant t hat issues t hat could have been dealt wit h inform ally becam e form al and m ore legalist ic, wit h m anagers’ focus being placed on com plying wit h procedures rat her t han dealing wit h t he problem . Sort ing out workplace problem s m ore inform ally can reduce cost s, resources, and st ress, leading t o m ore effect ive and product ive workplaces. So from April 2009, t he t hree- st ep procedure will be repealed and replaced by a new ‘Acas Code of Pract ice on disciplinary and grievance procedures’. Resolving problem s at work will becom e m ore st raight forward. Em ployees and em ployers will have m ore fl exibilit y t o choose how best t o resolve t heir problem s at work and t here will be m ore scope t o resolve a disagreem ent inform ally. From January 2009, enhanced helpline advisory services
will be available, followed in April 2009 by earlier access t o Acas conciliat ion services. This addit ional support will underpin t he new Code of Pract ice and com plem ent our exist ing conciliat ion and m ediat ion services, providing earlier int ervent ion t o enable issues t o be t ackled before t hey escalat e in t o form al proceedings. I f you would like t o know m ore about t hese im port ant developm ent s in disput e resolut ion, please cont act Andy Vernon, Acas Senior Adviser for Merseyside, on 0151 728 5624 or em ail avernon@acas.org.uk or our regional event s t eam on: 0161 833 8510/ 8520 em ail m a n ch e st e r e v e n t s@a ca s.o r g .u k Acas has been holding t raining event s in collaborat ion wit h em ployer and em ployee represent at ive bodies and will be offering furt her t raining in t he new year t o look at what all of t hese changes will m ean for em ployers. I nform at ion about t his t raining and our range of business support services can be found on our websit e at w w w .a ca s.o r g .u k .
12_15_interview
28/11/08
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LDP INTERVIEW
Home win for
pools saviour THE FOOTBALL POOLS ARE FIGHTING BACK AFTER THE LOTTERY SENT SALES PLUMMETING. ALISTAIR HOUGHTON ASKS SPORTECH CHIEF EXECUTIVE IAN PENROSE WHAT THE ODDS ARE THAT HE CAN REVIVE THE GAME OU can forgive gaming boss Ian Penrose for having a spring in his step these days − maybe that’s why his New Football Pools brand was launched with its own ballet. Penrose, chief executive of Liverpool gaming group Sportech, has just seen the company report its first increase in the number of people playing the football pools since the advent of the National Lottery sent the pools business into a tailspin. In 1994, 10m people played the pools every week. Today, the figure is less than a tenth of that. Sportech controls 99% of the British pools market. It has acquired the businesses that used to trade under the iconic brands of Littlewoods, Zetters and Vernons. At the start of this football season, it launched an aggressive marketing campaign − including a one-off football-themed ballet − to try to win back some market share and let people know that pools betting is alive and well despite years of decline. The pools have a new name, the back-tobasics New Football Pools, and with new
Y
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products and new distribution deals, Penrose and the Sportech team believe the business is all set for a revival. But Preston North End fan Penrose knows one good run doesn’t make a season. The pools slump may be over, but there’s still some way to go before he can say the things have really turned a corner. He said: “In that three-month period to November 5 we had a net increase of 1% in our traditional pools business, which is the first time we’ve ever been able to say that. “Over the course of the year, I’d expect that, what was a 16% annual decline, will now be down to 8% for this year. “When we add new customers through new distribution channels, we’ll be getting to a stage of growth in customers rather than a decline. “In 2009, we’re looking to at least hold it steady, if not see a net increase. We want to see the decline halted next year. There are encouraging signs, but there’s still a lot to do.” John Moores launched the first football pools game outside Old Trafford in 1923. The game soon P O S T
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“We want to see the decline halted next year. There are encouraging signs, but there’s still a lot to do”
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Ian Penrose with dancers from Sportech’s ballet The Beautiful Game got under the nation’s skin. Dreamers talked about what they would do when they “won the pools”, pools collectors were familiar figures on every street and the pools scores became a vital part of post-match media coverage. Sports-loving Penrose grew up in Preston and has fond memories of the glory days of football pools. He said: “I remember my dad playing, and me and my two brothers fighting over who filled in the coupon, because we all thought we knew best.” By 1994, 10m people − a quarter of the adult population − played the pools weekly, but the pools world collapsed on November 14, 1994, when the first National Lottery tickets went on sale. Within three weeks, football pools companies lost 2.5m customers − a collapse described with exquisite restraint by Penrose as an “enormous event”. Soon, people talked of winning the lottery, not the pools, and sales kept falling. The Moores family’s involvement with Littlewoods Pools ended in 2000 when the business was sold to Rodime, whose major shareholder was Lancastrian entrepreneur and Blackpool Tower owner, Trevor Hemmings. The company, now renamed Sportech, innovated new gambling products such as phone and internet betting service BetDirect and provided interactive gaming services for ITV’s digital channels. But by 2005, Sportech needed a new direction. With pools revenues still falling, it was heavily in debt. Penrose, an accountant by training who had worked for Hemmings for many years and risen to lead his Arena Leisure horseracing business, moved back to the North West and took on the challenge. 14 M A G A Z I N E
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“It cost us £2m to go through the Competition Commission, and for a company of our size that’s a lot of money. It took a huge amount of management time. But fortunately we got the right result”
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“We owed £115m to the bank,” he said. “In cashflow terms, the BetDirect and ITV contract businesses were losing us together £200,000 per week. “We sold the betting business for £12.5m in 2006 and we terminated the contract with ITV. We changed a lot of the management team and set about focusing on the core business, which is football pools. “The debt is now £83m, but we bought Vernons for £51m within that. It’s a fundamental change.” In 2007, Sportech, which already ran Littlewoods and Zetters pools, announced plans to buy Aintree-based Vernons from Ladbrokes. But the deal was referred to the Competition Commission over fears any merger could create a football pools monopoly, shocking Penrose and the team at Sportech, who wanted to make swift progress in consolidating pools games. The deal was given the green light after a six-month investigation, with the £51m deal with Ladbrokes finally sealed in November. Penrose said the prolonged regulatory process was tough for Sportech. He said: “It cost us £2m to go through the Competition Commission, and for a company of our size that’s a lot of money. It took a huge amount of management time. But fortunately we got the right result.” The merger, perhaps inevitably, led to around 40 job losses as the Vernons and Sportech businesses were integrated in Walton. Penrose, however, said the deal even won the backing of unions as it offered the only way of creating a pools business ready for future growth. Even Brittens Pools, the small Leicestershire company that is now Sportech’s only UK rival, told the Competition Commission that without the merger and a new push by Sportech to promote the pools, the industry could be dead in 10 years. With the Vernons deal done, Penrose could look at rebranding the pools and making them easier to play. The Littlewoods name was only held under licence until 2010, and so the time was right for a complete rebrand. Instead of going for the Royal Mail-toConsignia route of creating an entirely new brand, Sportech kept it simple – its games are branded as The New Football Pools because that’s what people will call them. “We looked at all sorts of brands in conjunction with some marketing advisers,”
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LDP INTERVIEW said Penrose. “But when you look at newspapers or listen to the radio or watch the television, everybody calls it the football pools, so we decided to call ourselves the football pools. To borrow someone else’s motto, the name does exactly what it says on the tin.” The new name was launched at the start of this football season, along with a series of new easier-to-play games, such as Premier 10 and Footy 15, aimed at a younger audience. Sportech still relies on its 11,000-strong army of collectors going from door to door collecting pools coupons, but Penrose has led a drive to find new distribution methods. The company has redeveloped its websites and, in June, signed a partnership deal with international gaming group 888 Holdings. 888 will provide the technology for Sportech’s other online games, including poker and casino, but, crucially, 888 will also market Sportech’s flagship pools games to its 4.9m players worldwide. Those games go live next month. This month, Sportech will start distributing its pools games, which can already be played through local newsagents and convenience stores, in Ladbrokes’ betting shops. Penrose said: “We have started discussions with other gaming venue operators, other online players, and we are looking to add further distribution opportunities to the contracts we already have. “Back in the old days, up to the 1990s, we just had collectors and everything was door-todoor. Now the whole world transacts in a variety of different ways.” Sportech launched the New Football Pools in London in July with the support of football legends including Alan Hansen and Gordon Banks, the 1966 England World Cup winner and Pools Panel member. But the following month, Sportech marked the pools’ 85th anniversary in a more flamboyant style by commissioning the English National Ballet to create the 12-minute performance, The Beautiful Game. The ballet featured dance interpretations of ten top football moments from the 1966 World Cup to Maradona’s Hand of God goal against England 20 years later. Smiling, Penrose said: “My initial reaction to the person who suggested it was ‘I cannot decide if you’re a genius or insane.’ But the more we debated it, the more interested we were.” Sportech has already signalled it is unafraid to dance into the acquisition market. It had
“Back in the old days, up to the 1990s, we just had collectors and everything was door-to-door. Now the whole world transacts in a variety of different ways”
expressed an interest in buying the horseracing pools arm of the state-owned Tote bookmaker, but in October, the Government shelved its privatisation plans due to unfavourable market conditions. Last month, Sportech bought the world’s oldest community football website, 4TheGame.com, for £600,000. The site has 700,000 unique monthly users worldwide and will provide content for Sportech’s main pools site as well as giving Sportech another platform on which to promote the pools. As well as his UK ambitions, Penrose also believes that English football pools can be sold worldwide and expects some distribution agreements in Asia to be concluded in the near future. For Penrose, the logic is simple – English football is the most popular sport in the world, while pools betting is the world’s most common form of betting. Times are hard, but Penrose believes people will still be prepared to place those small football pools stakes that could lead to them winning “life enhancing” amounts of money. He said: “We’re not immune from economic conditions and we certainly have to work a lot harder to keep the business moving in the right direction. There’s more pressure on everyone’s pound. “But we have been around since 1923 and have been through every economic cycle since this period. “We will never get back to the days of having 10m players. The world has changed. “But what we want to do is make this a thriving business with its roots in the North West.”
Ian Penrose, left, with football stars Les Ferdinand, Tony Cascarino, John Barnes and Alan Hansen M A G A Z I N E
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SPONSORED BY
CORPORATE DEALS
£1m investment for payments firm A COMPANY that provides foreign exchange and international and domestic payment services to small firms and mid-corporate businesses is expanding with a £1m investment from Alliance Fund Managers (AFM) and Enterprise Ventures (EV). TransGlobal Payment Solutions (TPS), which began trading in October, 2007, is a foreign exchange and payments institution that enables its customers to make any type of transaction in a variety of different payment methods and currencies through its internet service, PayFac. The investment will be used to provide development and working capital for the business. The completion of the deal will also see the company, which was advised by DWF, moving its head office and sales base from London to Merseyside in the coming months. The £1m investment comprises £500,000 from AFM through the MSIF Liverpool Seed Fund and £500,000 from EV through the Coalfields Enterprise Fund.
DWF corporate partner Gareth McIntegart
BIBBY PAYS £20M FOR PLANT SPECIALIST LIVERPOOL’S Bibby Line group splashed out £20m to buy a specialist plant and equipment hire business. Bibby, through its subsidiary Bibby Holdings, has acquired Bury-based Garic, which employs 95 people. Established in 1983, Garic boasts an 800-strong client base which 16
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L-R: Darren Gowling (AFM) Neil Kinum and Ian Wheeler (TPS) Jon Else (TSSP) Warren Whyte (TPS) Gareth Jones (Chairman, TPS) Wayne Thomas (EV)
CARE HOME DEAL FOR ASHBERRY
The purchase of Moorhouse increases the number of homes under CARE home operator Ashberry Ashberry’s control to eight, giving Healthcare has paid almost £4m for a them a total of over 350 beds across nursing home in Surrey and has their properties in England and completed a £1.5m expansion of Wales. Paul Sednaoui, chief executive another facility. of Ashberry Healthcare, said: With backing from the Royal Bank “Moorhouse is a well managed and of Scotland’s healthcare team, maintained home that has an Warrington-based Ashberry has excellent reputation locally.” acquired Moorhouse Nursing Home in Hindhead, Surrey, in a £3.85m deal. The company has also completed a new extension at its Heathercroft Care Home in Woolston. The extension provides an additional 24 beds at the dementia care facility and increases the total to 87 L to R: Dave Potter (RBS), Paul Sednaoui (Ashberry Healthcare) and Simon Howard (RBS) beds.
ranges from independent contractors to major multinationals such as Balfour Beatty, McAlpine, Laing O’Rourke and Carillion. Cy Green, chief executive of Bibby Holdings, said: “Bibby Holdings has funds available for future investments and will be looking at exciting opportunities to invest in businesses with excellent growth prospects.”
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Bibby Holdings was advised by Anthony Booth at Grant Thornton and Gareth McIntegart at law firm DWF. DWF corporate partner Gareth McIntegart, said: “Completing the deal is a major achievement given the constraints in the current economic climate.”
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Energise your
business
The Royal Bank of Scotland can offer the breadth of service and business insight that could help energise your business. You’ll find it energising to speak to someone who has local experience of your sector and who takes the time to understand your specific business issues before making tailored recommendations that could improve your business prospects.
Energise your business today by calling Ian Bateson
Barry Roberts
Director Business Development Liverpool
Regional Director, Corporate Banking Merseyside, Cheshire & North Wales
0151 242 5406
0151 242 1983
ian.bateson@rbs.co.uk
barry.roberts@rbs.co.uk
www.rbs.co.uk
The Royal Bank of Scotland plc. Registered in Scotland No. 90312. Registered office: 36 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2YB
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Is there a silver lining? LDP BUSINESS ASKS LOCAL BUSINESS LEADERS AND ECONOMISTS TO PREDICT WHAT LIES IN STORE FOR THE REGION NEXT YEAR
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HOSPITALITY
Hotelier and restauranteur Helen Ainscough remains optimistic about 2009
Will 2009 bring a post-culture hangover for the hospitality trade? LEISURE ENTREPRENEUR HELEN AINSCOUGH GAZES INTO HER CRYSTAL BALL. BY BARRY TURNBULL LIVERPOOL'S hospitality industry could face its greatest ever challenge in 2009 following a bumper Capital of Culture year. The huge programme of spectacular events in 2008 will not be repeated next year although the arena and convention centre will continue to drum up additional business. Leisure businesses in Liverpool and across Merseyside are having to re-assess trading prospects for next year and look again at what can be done to maintain the current momentum. Helen Ainscough runs a number of hotel and restaurant businesses including the Raquet Club in Chapel Street. She explained: "There is no doubt that we have enjoyed a fantastic year and there has been a real buzz about the 20 M A G A Z I N E
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place. We have also seen the number of enquiries increase dramatically due to the opening of the convention centre. “I am concerned about next year though. It’s a disappointment there doesn’t seem to be an events programme in place. I don’t know if its the city council or The Mersey Partnership, but there has been no feedback on what they are planning for 2009.” However, she remains optimistic. She said: "We only have the eight bedrooms here as well as the function rooms so it's not a big market we are looking at but on the other hand as a smaller, family run business we can offer greater flexibility. “Only recently, a company that was planning a lavish Christmas event decided to scale back, so we were able to help them out quickly. P O S T
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“Looking forward into 2009, I think we have to be more resourceful and creative as a business. “We are looking at a range of new ideas, including offering rewards to valued customers and a more varied market. We acknowledge it is going to be a challenge but it is one we are determined to meet.” One idea that is catching fire is the credit crunch wedding. A £5,000 package for 100 guests is proving very popular. Mark James, general manager at the Malmaison Hotel, said the current year had exceeded expectations: “It’s been a fantastic year and has even surpassed our best expectations with occupancy rates of more than 80%, which is phenomenal. For most of 2008 Liverpool’s hotel sector enjoyed the
David Daly, manager of the Atlantic Thistle
fastest growth in the country, and Culture year, coupled with investments in Liverpool One and the convention centre, have all made a significant impacts. “Other events, such as the MTV awards and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year, are also great for business, so the place has really been buzzing. Christmas bookings are also up on last year and even though there is a lot of doom and gloom around I think people need cheering up, especially at this time of the year.” However Malmaison's manager for the past 18 months fears tougher times are around the corner. “We can expect 2009 to be much tougher with no Open Golf, no Tall Ships, no giant spider. You would expect that after a year like this, but I
think I have concerns over forward planning and whether the city is geared up for 2009.” He says, given the downturn, the hospitality industry must address issues to give more value for money and better service. James added: “We are already looking at a rewards scheme and special offers in the restaurant. people will still go out but I think they will probably be looking to spend a bit more carefully. I think that those businesses who provide value and good service will continue to do well and it should also provide a good deal for punters. “Also, for us next year, we are going to offer al fresco dining outside, which should be a big attraction when the canal extension is finished.”
Hoylake’s King’s Gap Hotel still on schedule for £7m investment
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TRANSPORT
Riding the ups and downs HISTORIC FAMILY FIRM SUTTONS FORGES AHEAD WITH ITS BUSINESS DESPITE THE CREDIT CRUNCH. BY BARRY TURNBULL TRANSPORT group Suttons is steadfastly sticking to its investment plans despite the current economic woes. The haulage group has an ongoing programme to replace 77 of its 200 plus fleet of lorries at a time when most in the industry are scaling down operations. That plan should be completed by April of next year while it is also spending ÂŁ10m on new tank 22 M A G A Z I N E
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containers. But, like everyone else, costs are being trimmed where possible, and the Widnes family-owned business is keen not to have to make any redundancies. In fact, it has taken on more workers after landing a ÂŁ36m three year contract to handle deliveries for British Sugar. Managing director Andrew Palmer remains phlegmatic about what lies
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ahead in 2009. He said: "We are looking very carefully at trimming non-essential spending but are continuing with the investment plans. It's difficult to predict whether current circumstances are a bit of a shower or just the clouds before the storm but we have a commitment to invest and our philosophy is that we still need to deliver a first class service.
23 Athena
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Credit Crunch biting? Need to raise your profile? When the going gets tough….. The tough go to Athena and Network! WHO do you do your best business with? The prospects you cold call or The people whom you get to know through personal contact? The firm that picks up your leaflet or a direct referral from a personal acquaintance or existing customer? If your answers are in magenta and you are a businesswoman with flair, join Athena and network with like-minded forward thinking professionals who will support your vision of the future and help you build and develop your business. Embrace the values of Athena The Athena Network is the UK’s premier networking organisation for women and is a leader in changing the face of networking in the UK. Traditionally, business has often been done on the golf course, in the boardroom or in the pub after work, but over the past few years, a seismic shift has been taking place. Ladies everywhere have realised their true worth and are networking to build their contacts, build their expertise and build their businesses. They have seized the initiative and created their own networks, formulated to suit them and fit effectively around their
other tasks and commitments. Jacqueline Rogers, co-founder of Athena, is delighted but not surprised that women’s networking has taken off in such a dramatic way and at Athena’s immense popularity and continued growth: “The variety of professions that Athena encompasses is immense. Members range from accountants to hypnotherapists,
from bank managers to graphic designers and all of these women have not only gained valuable business contacts but also the support and advice of other women in business. Heather Madle “As well as providing Regional Director networking groups we aim to support our members further by providing training to help them grow and develop their businesses. “Our range of training courses covers a number of topics to help women develop personally and professionally and our dedication to this reflects our key objective of helping Athena members reach their full potential.” The Athena Network provides women with the opportunity to network with other businesswomen at monthly lunchtime groups and its sister group, Capuccino Connections, runs informal mid morning coffee meetings: the perfect solution for busy business women and women with family commitments. The success of the network has been unprecedented and in the last 3 years over 100 Athena groups have been launched across the UK, giving women the opportunity to network together and support and encourage one another. As a fantastic and original City of Culture in 2008, Liverpool has shown the world proof of its re-emergence as a prosperous city and that it values professionalism, originality and creativity in sport, the arts, music and business. Athena endorses these values and works to support businesswomen eager to prosper and succeed. Come along and meet us!
creating connections, inspiring success Liverpool City Group meets every 2nd Thursday of the month at Simply Heathcotes, 12.00 – 2.00pm, 25 The Strand, Beetham Plaza, Liverpool 2. Contact Regional Director Heather Madle Tel 0845 409 5878 Mobile 07837 352313 Email: heather@theathenanetwork.com. Visit our website www.theathenanetwork.com Join us this Thursday, December 11th and see for yourself what Athena can offer. Contact Heather for details.
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TRANSPORT “As everyone knows, fuel prices have been a big issue for the transport industry but they have stabilised and I don't expect such big deviations next year.” The company saw fuel costs rise by £1m in a year but has managed the situation in partnership with its customers. Palmer explained: “You can't just absorb huge extra costs and our customers realise that, although no-one is happy about increased bills obviously. We have arrangements in place to cover rising prices, but I think the most important thing is to be transparent about what you are doing.” It's all a far cry from the days when Alf Sutton started his horse and cart business before World War II. Suttons’ business has progressed from horse and cart coal deliveries around Widnes to an international concern with three divisions. One of the divisions, UK Road Tankers, has six depots, 200 vehicles and deals with bulk chemicals, gas and petroleum. Internationally, Suttons moves 4,000 tank containers from 10 offices around the world, including China, where Suttons is the first foreign-owned logistics group to be established there. Sutton Distribution has 450,000 sq ft of warehousing in St.Helens under the Linkway brand. Palmer said: “We are seeing a little slowing in demand but that has probably been more keenly felt on the international scene. The chemical and automotive industries are struggling and we have suffered some impact in the United States and Asia. “Of course there is still uncertainty about where all this is taking us. Tax breaks would be welcome, at any time really, but especially more so now.” Palmer has overhauled the business after returning following a spell as head of the international division between 1999 and 2001. The UK road business had to be overhauled. There were 232 vehicles covering 18m miles a year and generating revenues of £32m. Today, there are 206 trucks, doing 16.5m miles and producing an income of £37m. Last year, the business made pre-tax profits of £2m on a turnover of £84m. 24 M A G A Z I N E
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“As everyone knows, fuel prices have been a big issue for the transport industry but they have stabilised and I don’t expect such big deviations next year”
Andrew Palmer of Suttons haulage group
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25 JMU
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Leading edge course can add value to your business THE European Centre for Corporate Governance at Liverpool John Moores University is directed by Professor of Corporate Governance, Stephen Letza. Professor Letza has written over 200 academic papers and several research based books. Professor Letza says: “Corporate governance has risen to the top of the agenda for many companies in these troubled times: one only has to look at the banking crisis to see the significance of issues such as regulation and control. Even the very essence of what constitutes a modern capitalist approach is changing due to the current global crisis. Professor Steve Letza “A knowledge based economy requires people to view themselves as a brand to which they constantly add value in order to make themselves 'recession proof'. Companies see knowledge creation and thought leadership as crucial elements in their strategic approach to global competition.” Professor Letza has a wealth of industry experience and is currently a non-executive director for two companies, including
Controline which is involved in high technology control systems. “We aim to develop a blend of leading edge theory and real life practical experiences on the MSc Corporate Governance programme at LJMU. For an intelligent, ambitious individual wishing to augment their qualifications and knowledge in a leading edge area which will always be demanded at senior management and director levels, corporate governance represents a very coherent choice. Companies can use this knowledge in numerous beneficial ways.” Professor Letza is a chartered accountant and Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants. Away from his busy academic life, Professor Letza enjoys spending time with his family, as well as playing his beloved trombone – he was once a member of the National Youth Orchestra.
For further information on the European Centre for Corporate Governance, or to apply for the MSc in Corporate Governance, please telephone 0151 231 3440 or email blwpg@ljmu.ac.uk. You can also visit the website at www.ljmu.ac.uk/eccg.
have you got what it takes to be a 21 Century Business Leader? st
Prestigious MSc Programmes in Corporate Governance Commencing January 2009 You have achieved a lot but the professional in you knows you have to take the extra step to attain excellence. As the world evolves, business decision makers need the tools and skills to analyse, and find effective solutions to, a range of complex issues. The European Centre for Corporate Governance (ECCG) offers flexible, one year Masters level programmes in Corporate Governance, Risk and Crisis Management, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Management Consultancy. There is also the potential to undertake PhD studies in these areas. The MSc programmes develop in participants the ability to perform in a variety of business settings, and provide the perfect opportunity to learn from experienced business practitioners who are highly academically qualified. Whether you are running your own business, managing a department or working your way up the corporate ladder, our programmes and expertise are invaluable.
If you have at least 3 years’ management experience and a good first degree or other relevant qualifications then these programmes can help you to fulfill your career aspirations. We also invite applications from exceptional people who may have a non-standard background. Experienced MBA graduates can also apply for our fast track route (normally 7-8 months). ECCG has an established reputation for excellence in corporate governance, leadership and management education. Our degrees are recognised by the National Foundation for Business Excellence who sponsor an annual award for the best performer.
The next induction day is 19th January 2009. For details on how our MSc programmes can best meet your needs please the contact the Programme Administration team on telephone: 0151 231 3440 or email: blwpg@ljmu.ac.uk quoting reference LXM43. Alternatively, you can visit the website at www.ljmu.ac.uk/eccg
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ECONOMY
Shanghai’s high-speed magnetic-levitation train (maglev)
Weathering the economic storm JACK STOPFORTH Chief Executive of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce
CAN we expect regional initiatives in economic development to mitigate the impact of global economic shocks? We are far from immune to recessionary pressures and not complacent, but Liverpool’s economy can cope with the impact of recession − at least for now. The terms of the debate are less hysterical here than in London for three reasons. First, the early threat of unemployment focused on the Square Mile rather than in the real economy. Secondly, £4 billions of local investment in the past decade have given us a cushion unavailable in previous recessions. Thirdly, many local small businesses have been preparing for the worst even before the collapse of Northern Rock and more recent banking crises. 26 M A G A Z I N E
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Consequently, instead of being a front line casualty, business in Merseyside will enter the recession more slowly than other regions − perhaps six months after the South East or West Midlands. When and how we emerge from it depends on the efficacy of international policy measures. However, it also depends on whether recent local investments in public infrastructure and private enterprise make us more resilient. Local Chambers have reported worsening trading conditions since the third-quarter (Q3) last year 2007/08. These trends accelerated in Q3 this year as credit became increasingly difficult to access, consumer demand faltered and export markets stopped growing. However, we saw slower growth rather than decline, suggesting that our smaller businesses were managing cash flow, inventory and investment very realistically. So, if local initiatives can make a difference, what should we be doing? 1. We want all public sector procurement in Liverpool to utilise the Chamber’s “Tender Alert” initiative to
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ensure earliest notification goes to local suppliers. 2. We want the NWDA and others to lobby the Department for Transport to bring forward capital programmes currently on the wish list − how about a Liverpool/Manchester high-speed magnetic-levitation train (maglev), where a high-level business case has been commissioned? 3. We want overt encouragement through the planning regime for privately funded capital projects like Peel Holdings’ Liverpool Waters and Superport projects. 4. We want Government to re-think its stance on levying full rates on empty commercial properties and to defer its planned 2010 revaluation until baseline values are more settled. 5. We support a further 0.5% cut in interest rates. 6. Promises by Government to pay bills more quickly need to become a reality. As with so many things in the Global Village, governments must think globally and act locally.
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PETER STONEY Honorary Senior Fellow at University of Liverpool Management School
“Merseyside is better placed to cope than in previous downturns because 2008 has been an excellent year for the region”
WHO would have forecast the current global turmoil 12 months ago? Recent events have demonstrated graphically that the business environment can change as quickly as saying “Jack Robinson”, but the scale of the recent upheaval has surely made it safe to predict a 2009 for the UK of at best flat growth coupled with increasing unemployment, weak sterling, falling interest rates, and − importantly − low inflation. The current UK recessionary environment differs significantly from previous downturns in living memory in that inflation is not a threat: previous recessions have been associated with very high UK interest rates in order to combat high inflation, but the UK is now blessed with sound money, which is very good for business. Furthermore, recent UK recessions have started with a bigger dip in GDP growth than the 0.5% drop in Q3, 2008. The dramatic action by the Bank of England to cut the base lending rate by 1.5% in early November − most probably to be followed by further cuts − together with fiscal incentives in the form of personal and business tax cuts, should ensure that 2009 does not
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produce negative growth in the UK in excess of -2%, which is much less than previous recessions since 1970. Provided the US − accounting for one-third of global GDP − and other key countries such as Germany and Japan create viable solutions to their own economic problems, this prospective business environment means that UK businesses are well placed to weather the storm. Exporters should benefit from a relatively low sterling exchange rate and business investment should recover once the banking system starts to function more rationally within the context of low interest rates. There will undoubtedly be the pain of cost cutting and redundancies, but the fitter businesses will survive as leaner and more efficient outfits. The housing market will recover in the fullness of time − it always does. Merseyside is better placed to cope than in previous downturns because 2008 has been an excellent year, with high profile European Capital of Culture status, Liverpool One retail development, the Echo Arena and BT Convention Centre plus other events acting as effective promotional and investment vehicles for the region. It is true that both the manufacturing and service sectors are exposed to the rigours of market forces more than the non-trading, but Merseyside possesses more of the latter in the form of a much higher proportion of its workforce in the public sector than elsewhere in the UK, thus providing an element of protection. Whilst some projects will not come on stream during 2009, the pipeline of business investments is impressive, with Peel Holdings’ ambitious plans for both River Mersey waterfronts, Mersey Maritime's concept of Liverpool as the hub of a Superport for the North West − already taking shape with expansion at Liverpool Port and the Manchester Ship Canal − and KLM's plans for starting up at John Lennon Airport next March to feed into the Schiphol international hub in Holland, which is a massive vote of confidence. L I V E R P O O L
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Is your business performing at its Maximum? Business Doctors Ltd helps small and medium-sized businesses achieve maximum turnover, profitability and growth. Now expanding nationally, the company’s success comes from providing expert friendly, practical support with strategy, sales and profit growth and people engagement. Running seminars around the country on subjects ranging from the Antidote to Dragon’s Den to How to Beat the Credit Crunch, the company is headed up by experienced entrepreneurs Rod Davies and Matt Levington. Working with companies in a huge variety of sectors, Business Doctors takes pride in energising businesses from top to bottom and returning tangible results in terms of boosted efficiency, turnover and profitability. Director Rod Davies said: “Our success shows that the founders, owners and directors of the UK’s 1.7m SMEs need more than just advice.
“After working with Business Doctors we experienced a 30% turnover boost and saw net profits increase 11%.” They need guidance and understanding from experts who take a personal interest in the health of their business. Anyone who has worked with us will tell you we take a very hands-on approach, with a holistic approach to making the business a success and pushing results beyond expectations.” Recent successes include helping St Helens based Amenity Contract Services Ltd to a 30% turnover boost and increasing the company’s net profits by 11%. ACS managing director Richard Rainford said: “After working with Business Doctors we experienced a significant boost to turnover. From the first stage of the Strategic Review, the process of self analysis uncovered some very helpful ideas we had never thought of before. “Looking at administrative working methods and management, talking to the management team, contract managers and office staff, they identified procedures that could be improved, they helped the back office to run a lot better. Working with business auditors, they also introduced us to very useful new people such as potential investors. Moving with us into another growth stage, profits have improved dramatically.” Having achieved great success for clients across Merseyside since launching in 2004, the company is now
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undergoing national expansion and opened its Central Southern office earlier this year. Rod Davies says: “Though we’re now working around the country, we’re still very active in Merseyside which is very much the ‘home’ of Business Doctors and welcome enquiries from any company large or small looking to improve upon their current situation. “There’s a saying that ‘if you do what you’ve always done, you get what you’ve always got’. If you want to make a change, give us a call and we’ll show you how.” To find out more, go to www.businessdoctors.co.uk or call 0845 219 7077 or email info@businessdoctors.co.uk
P O S T
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THE Daily Post publishes its latest Hot 100 - a list of the fastestgrowing companies in the paper’s circulation area. The data was provided by Experian, the global information solutions business, and is based on the latest annual accounting records filed at Companies House. To be included in the Hot 100, companies must meet particular
criteria including registration at Companies House, two years’ worth of full accounts, an active trading status, less than 250 employees and a turnover of between £250,000 and £11.5m (the prevailing government definition of a SME). The percentage growth in turnover is measured by comparing the last two sets of accounts.
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HOT 100
COMPANY NAME 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50
LOCATION
PROSPECT (GB) BALLY GAMING AND SYSTEMS UK RAPHAEL HEALTH CARE ESR TECHNOLOGY GELDART PROPERTIES MAYER ENVIRONMENTAL DATALASE RSK ENVIRONMENT HEALTH & SAFETY REMEDX COUNTY LEASING & FINANCE D R & P HOLDINGS MALCOLM PROPERTIES MIDAS CAPITAL PARTNERS KAWASAKI ROBOTICS (UK) SURFACE TRANSFORMS MCCURRACH TACTICAL SERVICES BEETHAM HOTELS BIRMINGHAM IDEAL FASHIONS STANLEYBET INTERNATIONAL CUSTOM GLASS PARK FINANCIAL SERVICES HARRISON LEISURE UK BARNFIELD HUGHES REDNET WEST TOWER COUNTRY HOUSE ASSURA FUND MANAGEMENT MEDICASH HEALTH BENEFITS (SERVICES) HEADLAND COMMUNICATION ALASTAIR GREENE TITAN DISTRIBUTION (UK) REMGUARD CALIPER LIFESCIENCES VITAFLO (INTERNATIONAL) RISKTEC SOLUTIONS 7 GLOBAL GROUP IS PHARMA PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH SOFTWARE NSL ENGINEERING (UK) M W PENSIONS ATMORE INVESTMENTS BAUMANN HINDE & CO. COGENT BREEDING PAVIS FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT WIRRAL ROOFCARE SEAN LOUIS INVESTMENTS THE FRAGRANCE SHOP (2) T M UTLEY (OFFSHORE) CASHFLOW UK PROXIMO FENCHURCH ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP
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Liverpool Chester Liverpool Warrington Warrington Warrington Widnes Helsby Helsby Chester Southport St Helens Liverpool Warrington Ellesmere Port Warrington Liverpool Liverpool Liverpool Kirkby Birkenhead Southport Chester Warrington Hoylake Warrington Liverpool Liverpool Southport St Helens Daresbury Runcorn Liverpool Warrington Liverpool Chester Runcorn Skelmersdale Neston Liverpool Southport Chester Liverpool Wallasey Birkenhead Liverpool Warrington Liverpool Chester Warrington
D A I L Y
P O S T
CURRENT TURNOVER £9,761,000 £3,667,000 £5,422,416 £8,509,000 £2,609,177 £7,174,000 £2,004,526 £4,966,000 £2,098,158 £3,275,362 £3,112,240 £4,400,000 £9,636,062 £6,802,521 £508,111 £1,187,000 £7,232,661 £1,004,524 £5,620,060 £8,467,996 £4,150,366 £5,420,386 £7,756,211 £5,405,151 £2,277,280 £3,443,704 £2,129,356 £3,121,000 £450,692 £8,628,371 £3,546,672 £5,022,783 £6,056,068 £10,391,689 £3,906,803 £2,842,002 £553,485 £4,976,699 £484,072 £1,271,679 £8,202,857 £6,142,000 £597,849 £1,417,736 £8,382,066 £1,795,983 £865,288 £875,033 £4,823,856 £950,000
PREVIOUS TURNOVER £2,896,000 £1,412,000 £2,212,280 £3,551,000 £1,132,679 £3,242,000 £921,728 £2,284,000 £1,016,341 £1,592,749 £1,532,823 £2,200,000 £4,884,408 £3,501,222 £266,789 £639,718 £3,935,704 £551,839 £3,110,946 £4,806,125 £2,376,012 £3,166,791 £4,553,141 £3,254,175 £1,375,059 £2,119,888 £1,332,193 £1,966,000 £284,395 £5,446,680 £2,242,820 £3,194,803 £3,859,864 £6,625,572 £2,497,444 £1,858,750 £363,431 £3,309,401 £322,979 £856,293 £5,546,623 £4,171,000 £406,538 £967,701 £5,730,581 £1,227,881 £600,274 £610,704 £3,369,428 £665,000
GROWTH IN TOTAL SALES 237% 160% 145% 140% 130% 121% 117% 117% 106% 106% 103% 100% 97% 94% 90% 86% 84% 82% 81% 76% 75% 71% 70% 66% 66% 62% 60% 59% 58% 58% 58% 57% 57% 57% 56% 53% 52% 50% 50% 49% 48% 47% 47% 47% 46% 46% 44% 43% 43% 43%
DATE OF ACCOUNTS 31/03/08 30/06/06 31/03/08 31/03/07 31/12/06 31/12/06 31/12/07 31/03/07 31/03/07 31/12/06 31/07/07 31/01/07 31/03/08 31/12/07 31/05/08 30/06/07 30/09/07 30/09/07 30/12/07 31/08/07 31/03/07 31/12/06 30/09/07 31/03/07 30/09/07 31/12/06 31/12/07 30/06/07 31/05/08 31/12/07 30/06/07 31/12/07 31/03/06 31/12/07 31/03/07 31/03/07 30/09/07 31/12/06 31/07/07 31/03/07 30/09/07 31/03/08 30/06/07 31/10/07 30/09/07 30/04/06 30/04/07 31/12/07 30/06/07 31/03/07
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HOT 100
SPONSORED BY
COMPANY NAME 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100
DISTRICT ESTATES LGH HOLDINGS CAMBRIAN ASSOCIATES KVERNELAND DEVIZES SWITCH MEDIA K L H ELECTRONICS BAA BAR MERLIN LIABILITY CLAIMS CHARLES EVANS CONSTRUCTION INGLEWOOD CONFERENCE CENTRE YUKEN KIMPTON F I SYSTEMS SNUGNIGHTS UK ARBUTHNOT COMMERCIAL FINANCE PENFOLD ENCIA DEMOLITION LIVERPOOL CATHEDRAL ENTERPRISES BIBBY INVOICE DISCOUNTING SEA ESTATES JONES JOINERY WESTMINSTER PARK PHARMACY DIMENSIONS REPROGRAPHICS THE ALEXANDER BEARD GROUP KEENFORCE ENVIROLAB HARROW ESTATES PROTHERICS MEDICINES DEVELOPMENT JARRON DEVELOPMENTS ROGER HAYDOCK & COMPANY TYREFORCE NW PROMATIC INTERNATIONAL DUNLOP HEVEA (INDUSTRIAL & PROTECTIVE FOOTWEAR) VAKTRO PROPERTIES QUINN MELVILLE BARROW SITCUPRO REDBOARD CARING HANDS CHESHIRE CENTRE ISLAND BIRMINGHAM GROSVENOR FARMS NICHOLSONS HEALTH CARE LAFARGE GYVLON DMS ROOFING SUPPLIES LGVE O’CONNOR CONTAINER STORAGE I.C. CERAMICS COASTBRIGHT WHP PROJECTS RIKA INTERNATIONAL CALYX (UK)
LOCATION Chester Newton-Le-Willows Chester St Helens Liverpool Southport Liverpool Bromborough Liverpool Wirral Liverpool Bromborough Bootle Prenton Liverpool Bootle Warrington Liverpool Liverpool Liverpool Netherton Chester Liverpool Chester Prenton Helsby Preston Brook Runcorn Southport Widnes Bootle Wirral Warrington Liverpool Liverpool Runcorn Liverpool Runcorn Liverpool Chester Runcorn Warrington Liverpool Bromborough Warrington Liverpool Liverpool Warrington Warrington St Helens M A G A Z I N E
CURRENT TURNOVER £9,488,309 £6,897,000 £1,888,156 £9,118,000 £1,142,229 £1,069,790 £11,079,836 £1,313,000 £8,894,875 £1,016,000 £1,819,835 £10,045,859 £839,886 £359,420 £2,129,603 £9,026,594 £3,895,630 £974,088 £8,009,094 £965,000 £794,220 £8,432,703 £397,570 £2,024,626 £6,528,735 £1,511,922 £3,697,441 £1,666,867 £2,917,283 £9,976,214 £2,154,916 £6,611,682 £6,758,090 £1,166,294 £810,439 £2,502,292 £391,816 £401,302 £7,735,461 £4,980,000 £9,233,000 £5,362,089 £1,013,437 £473,177 £2,111,444 £470,498 £11,801,000 £8,172,016 £4,286,577 £4,917,873 O F
T H E
PREVIOUS TURNOVER £6,646,505 £4,852,000 £1,340,639 £6,498,000 £818,988 £769,899 £8,019,122 £954,000 £6,502,411 £743,000 £1,331,511 £7,356,501 £615,964 £263,898 £1,567,379 £6,649,280 £2,877,403 £721,529 £5,962,462 £721,884 £595,153 £6,338,800 £301,160 £1,534,178 £4,952,070 £1,152,427 £2,821,759 £1,276,154 £2,246,544 £7,702,931 £1,663,935 £5,106,453 £5,232,751 £903,955 £629,282 £1,945,255 £304,904 £312,676 £6,028,599 £3,882,000 £7,198,000 £4,191,072 £794,583 £372,923 £1,666,401 £371,629 £9,386,000 £6,503,580 £3,411,708 £3,917,193
GROWTH IN TOTAL SALES 43% 42% 41% 40% 39% 39% 38% 38% 37% 37% 37% 37% 36% 36% 36% 36% 35% 35% 34% 34% 33% 33% 32% 32% 32% 31% 31% 31% 30% 30% 30% 29% 29% 29% 29% 29% 29% 28% 28% 28% 28% 28% 28% 27% 27% 27% 26% 26% 26% 26%
L I V E R P O O L
D A I L Y
DATE OF ACCOUNTS 31/03/07 30/04/07 31/05/07 31/12/07 31/12/07 31/03/07 30/04/07 30/04/08 30/09/07 31/12/06 31/03/08 30/11/07 31/12/06 31/12/07 31/12/07 30/11/07 31/12/06 30/09/07 31/12/07 30/09/06 31/03/08 31/08/07 30/11/07 31/05/07 31/12/07 31/03/07 31/03/07 31/03/07 31/03/08 30/06/07 31/03/07 31/01/07 31/12/07 31/03/07 31/03/07 31/12/07 31/12/06 05/04/08 31/08/07 31/03/08 31/12/07 31/12/07 31/10/07 30/06/07 31/03/07 30/09/07 31/12/06 31/05/07 31/07/07 31/07/06 P O S T 31
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HOT 100
Hotshot property firm Prospect GB is owned by Riverside Housing Association, based at Liverpool's Estuary Commerce Park.
PROSPECT POSITION: 1 TURNOVER: £9.7M GROWTH: 237%
HOT PROSPECT PROPERTY FIRM HEADS TOP 100
Property firm Prospect GB tops the Daily Post’s Hot 100 list of the region’s fastest growing firms after a dramatic period of rising sales. Prospect, the commercial arm of social landlord Riverside Housing Group, saw turnover rise by 237% to more than £9m in the year to March 2008. It is thought the business’s diversification into commercial property after specialising in residential has helped boost the figures. However, the era of fast growth is probably behind it as the property market has slumped sharply this year, a factor that could account for Prospect declining to talk about their top spot ranking. The company was formed in 2000 in an imaginative move by Riverside to create a profit-making organisation that could help fund social housing activities. In the last couple of years, it has stated that rapid growth was a priority, with a turnover of £40m the projected target within five years. It has expanded into new offices in Warrington away from Riverside’s base at the Estuary Commerce Park, Speke. The firm’s property investment portfolio includes assets in Liverpool, Leicestershire, Sheffield, Chester and Manchester. A couple of years ago, a decision was taken to diversify out of purely residential property into the commercial sector. Excellent knowledge of the northern property market and the ability to fund opportunities have already stood Prospect in good stead while building up a portfolio of commercial property across the North of England. 32 M A G A Z I N E
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ALEXANDER BEARD GROUP POSITION: 74 TURNOVER: £2M GROWTH: 32%
BEARD GROWS
Paul Beard founded the financial services company 20 years ago with an emphasis on the music and entertainment industry. Since then, the range of services has extended significantly, as has their geographical spread, with international offices serving all the main continents of the world. There are teams dedicated to looking after the needs of professional sports people, as well as specialist knowledge of the medical and legal professions. In addition, they have extensive experience looking after the financial needs of small and medium sized businesses, where they provide a range of corporate services to employers and employees. Internationally, the focus is on providing a service both at home and abroad for expatriates from Britain, America, Australasia and Canada.
P O S T
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HOT 100
SPONSORED BY
MIDAS CAPITAL PARTNERS POSITION: 13 TURNOVER: £9.6M GROWTH: 97%
SURFACE TRANSFORMS POSITION: 15 TURNOVER: £508,000 GROWTH: 90%
Simon Edwards and Katrina Skelland of Midas
GOLDEN TOUCH FOR MIDAS Midas joined the London Stock Exchange earlier this year on the back of rising business and a reverse takeover of Limia Miton Optimal, another fund management firm. Prospects looked sound and founder Simon Edwards made £21m from the deal. The transaction was a major milestone in the development of the company, but since then, a lot of water has passed under the bridge. Volatility across financial markets is making investors nervous. Although Edwards concedes there are choppy waters ahead, he also believes there are opportunities. He explained: “Now is the time for careful investors to consider the opportunities thrown up by recent events. “Good quality, blue chip companies that offer attractive dividend yields and that can withstand some reduction in headline earnings will find investor support, and should provide attractive returns for the brave.
FIRM’S HIGH PERFORMANCE “Investment grade corporate debt also looks attractive, particularly compared to deposit rates and the gilt market, which now looks increasingly vulnerable as governments raise capital to fund the banking system. “Recent falls in commodity and oil prices will lower inflation expectations, giving more scope for interest rates to fall, offering further support to equities and bonds. This, in turn, will help support prices in other asset markets (property, structured products, private equity), where quoted prices are often at very significant discounts to net asset values. “There is no doubt that the unwinding of the irresponsible lending, corporate excesses and financial leverage of recent years will be painful and take time. Some asset prices will continue to re-adjust to this environment. Many already have. These are the opportunities we will be alive to.”
The company specialises in producing carbon fibre reinforced ceramic materials for use in high performance cars and the aerospace industry. It was founded in 1992 to exploit the potential of new composite manufacturing material patents bought from ICI and is now listed on the Alternative Investment Market. In 2007, Surface Transforms moved from Cheshire Innovation Park to Unit 4, Olympic Park in Ellesmere Port. The new facility at Olympic Park now enables the company to house all of its activities under one roof. The company has sophisticated in-house testing equipment, complete with a full-scale brake testing dynamometer capable of testing materials at very high torques – one of the few machines in the world capable of simulating both high-energy Formula 1 and motorsport conditions and lower-energy road car conditions.
experienced people count in Merseyside
Contact Richard Burrows, Dermot Garvey or David Nicholls to see how Chadwick's experience in Merseyside can count for you. liverpool@chadwickllp.co.uk
Liverpool: 0151 236 6262 Manchester: 0161 832 6088 www.chadwickllp.co.uk M A G A Z I N E
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HOT 100 MEDICASH POSITION: 27 TURNOVER: 2.1M GROWTH: 60%
Patrick Allen of the Co-Op with Medicash chief executive Sue Weir
MEDICASH IS IN RUDE HEALTH Medicash is one of the UK’s leading healthcare cash plan providers. With a history dating back 135 years, the company has constantly evolved and developed to reflect the changing face of healthcare and has an outstanding reputation for its products and high quality service. The year just passed has brought more growth for Medicash. The business has entered the retail market by joining forces with the UK's largest mutual retailer, The Co-operative. The partnership means the Medicash healthcare cash plan is now available in all of the retailer’s food and pharmacy stores across the UK, and online. Other significant contract wins include The Big Lottery Fund and container shipping company CMA CGM. Both organisations have signed up Medicash as sole provider of healthcare benefits for all of their employees, a combined total of over 1,300 employees.
GAMING COMPANY IN BATTLE WITH OFFICIALDOM
STANLEYBET INTERNATIONAL POSITION: 19 TURNOVER: £5.6M GROWTH: 81%
34 M A G A Z I N E
Medicash has recently celebrated being awarded carbon neutral status, making them the first healthcare cash plan provider to achieve this. Medicash wants to reduce its carbon footprint by a further 10% next year and it has implemented schemes such as Ride 2 Work, and offered interest free loans to staff buying public transport season tickets. Medicash has a long history of charitable giving and regularly makes significant donations to the NHS and health related charities. Medicash is a not for profit organisation which invests ethically and uses all surplus funds to benefit their members. City centre based Medicash is financially strong with a turnover of £24m and an asset base of £29m, and has a significant corporate and individual membership of over 140,000.
STANLEYBET SAYS EUROCRATS ARE AIDING BETTING MONOPOLIES Stanleybet International was established in 1997 as a division of the well known Liverpool gaming group Stanley Leisure. In late 2006, the Malaysian-based casino operator Genting International acquired Stanley for £640m and shortly afterwards Stanleybet International was sold to one of its managers, Giovanni Garrisi. From its Liverpool city centre headquarters, the firm has now established itself as the leading crossborder retail sports betting company in Europe. The majority of its intermediaries are in Cyprus, Germany and Italy, as well as locally-licensed outlets in Belgium, Croatia, Poland and Romania, making a total of over 1,500 betting outlets and generating annual revenues in excess of £200m. However, the company claims powerful political forces in Europe are restricting further growth. O F
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Stanleybet has experienced difficulties in a number of countries where authorities are reluctant to open up their gaming markets. In November, two Stanleybet outlets in Greece were raided and shut down and both staff and customers were arrested. EU treaties grant businesses the right to offer cross-border sports betting services. This right has been upheld by the European Court of Justice, most notably in the landmark Gambelli and Placanica rulings. The European Commission is now considering starting infringement cases against a number of countries, including Greece, but some of the cases have now dragged on for several years. Stanleybet believes the reasons for the delays are political rather than bureaucratic and that EU governments are trying to protect their state betting monopolies.
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HOT 100
SPONSORED BY
Aaron Bimpson of Switch
SWITCH MEDIA POSITION: 55 TURNOVER: £1.1M GROWTH: 39%
PARK FINANCIAL SERVICES POSITION: 21 TURNOVER: £4.1M GROWTH: 75%
INTERNET HOST ON THE FAST TRACK Internet Service Provider Switch Media has enjoyed a consistent track record of fast growth in each of the last five years. Total sales have increased 682% in that time. Chris Evans, managing director, said: “Against a backdrop of a weakening economy and stronger competition, we are proud to have out-performed the sector yet again in delivering impressive growth. “Our growth shows we have a business model which is able to adapt.” The firm recently added new clients Harley Davidson and Universal Music Group. M A G A Z I N E
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PARK’S NOT JUST FOR XMAS Birkenhead’s Park Group is best known for its Christmas hampers, but it also includes a financial services operation within its subsidiaries. Park Financial Services offers a range of insurance products under the online trading name of lowcostcover.com The brokerage focuses on pulling in business from a number of sectors within the small business community including taxis, guest houses, restaurants and bars. General motor and household insurance is also available plus cover for pets and travel. Business has grown considerably during the past couple of years and continues to make progress. Group founder, Peter Johnson, said: “Park remains resilient against the economic downturn.”
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P O S T 35
36_37 own business
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IN ASSOCIATION WITH
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E CY GAM N o E G A ed on t G N I S switch I s T a R t E o n THE ADV ays and people were N t four O S T e abou d C r e E w L ch F e r ing. k t he 's a mu ITH RE M market bout days it l I thin S a o e s o o B e e p w r t h n O t e e r R int s go reas “In Liv s, whe s a thin is more
36
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Rob S mith
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n ’s campaig p O o C e h t earheaded p s p e e h s Black
k that’s . I thin e ic r p ave a t he could h tter, it's a d n m e ’t e n does d in th orking hted an ing at w chip k o .” t shortsig lo c fe f blue is now ental e ot just sheep detrim sses, n s Black e y a in s s u h er b Smit think young e and I ynamic g d d e h n it a w tain ates. ss to re corpor progre o t 9.” e 0 v 0 a to 2 “You h going in t a h t do we can
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CO-OPERATION IS THE NAME OF THE GAME Blacksheep has spearheaded a campaign on behalf of the country's most loved bank. The Co-operative Bank wanted to underpin its position as the number one in the high street for customer satisfaction. The campaign features a mix of TV and press adverts, as well as direct mail, door stops, in-branch décor, in-store radio and internal communications. An important element of the campaign was a television advert which appeared on Sky Nationwide. Smith, said: “A number of leading banks choose to film TV ads in exotic long-haul destinations but, for an ethical organisation such as the Co-operative Bank, it was appropriate to help lower the carbon footprint by filming in the UK.”
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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Tissea’s Julien Pierre and Stuart McCrae
Fast growth at science park PHASE 2 READY TO LAUNCH LIVERPOOL Science Park is ready to double in size when it throws open the doors to its second phase early in the new year. An additional 40,000 sq ft of modern facilities is currently being built to meet expanding demand for suitable accommodation from fastgrowing science and hi-tech companies. The extra space comprises flexible offices and laboratories in the shadow of Liverpool's Metropolitan Cathedral and forms part of an innovation cluster in the heart of the city's Knowledge Quarter. In November, an event called Software City showcased Liverpool's desire to attract fast-paced technological businesses that are looking to expand. One such company, Tissea, exemplifies the global competitiveness in the industry. The firm, which has its 38 M A G A Z I N E
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headquarters at the science park, produces desktop and web applications and has opened offices in Marrakesh, Morocco, and Bordeaux, France. Next month, the company will open a second Moroccan office, in Casablanca, and next year plans to set up a base in China. Julien Pierre, who founded the company in 2006, said: “The way we operate is in a competitive market. I would rather start small and grow somewhere else staff wise because staff costs are very expensive. I wanted to have a good base before expanding in the UK.” Mr Pierre, originally from Toulouse, France, offers some good news to Merseyside’s ICT sector. “In the UK, it is becoming easier, so I will look to recruit soon,” he said. “The time I started the business was the right time because there was a lot of investment in the Merseyside area.
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“It’s not just Liverpool, though. If you compare the English market with France or Europe, England is always a better place to do business, people go faster.” Another cutting-edge company that has moved into the park’s innovation centre is Fastems. The Finnish enterprise with a turnover of euro100m specialises in the design of top quality tools for the automotive and aerospace industries. UK managing director, Steve Malone, said: “I spend a lot of my time travelling to our clients who are based all over Britain. Liverpool gives me a sensible base where I am halfway between our English and Scottish customers. However, it's great to have all the facilities the science park offers for when we do host meetings and conferences in the UK. Visitors react to the building, and indeed the city, with pleasant surprise. I enjoy impressing them!"
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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Sugaring the pill NEW SCIENCE CENTRE TO TACKLE SIDE EFFECTS Scientists at the universities of Liverpool and Manchester have been awarded £3m to develop a new centre aimed at reducing the risks of adverse drug effects. The plan is to improve the understanding of sideeffects by working with leading pharmaceutical companies.
Voucher scheme to encourage innovation
Professor Kevin Park, director of the new centre for drug safety, said: “Science has made huge advances in drug therapies for a wide range of medical conditions and in the majority of patients these treatments work. “Our team will focus on drugs that have the ability to treat disease but may in some cases react badly.”
THE NORTHWEST Regional Development Agency (NWDA) has launched a £4m voucher scheme to encourage innovation. The scheme is designed to encourage business to engage proactively with the North West knowledge base, including colleges and universities. The funding consists of £2m from the European Regional Development Fund and £2.1m from the NWDA. It is aimed at firms that don’t currently engage with the region’s knowledge base such as further and higher education. M A G A Z I N E
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SMEs can use the vouchers worth £3,000 to enlist the help of institutions in resolving problems of productivity or competitivenes. An NWDA spokesman said: “The voucher scheme addresses the lack of interaction by intervening to encourage SMEs to work with the knowledge base by reducing the costs, and by brokering the contact between SMEs and the experts in the region. “The scheme aims to encourage 1,100 businesses to interact with colleges across the North West over the next two years.”
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40_43 Legal
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LDP
LEGAL
Don’t get ripped off FRAUD COSTS BUSINESS DEAR. BEN SCHOFIELD LOOKS AT HOW COMPANIES SHOULD BE DEALING WITH IT FRAUD costs the UK economy £20bn a year. In its many guises − stolen assets, lost revenues, the costs of prevention and investigation − reported cases have an impact second only to drug trafficking. On Merseyside, the former directors of bottled gas business Alta Gas, Peter Bradley and Peter Stott, were jailed in May for their part in a £45m fraud, which resulted in the collapse of Bradley’s liquid petroleum gas company. The collapse followed due diligence examinations of the business by accountants instructed by venture capitalists who were becoming 40 M A G A Z I N E
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concerned. Receivers then discovered a sophisticated system of false accounts that created an impression of a profitable company that merited investment. The fear employees will resort to theft to beat the credit crunch has significantly increased anxiety about corporate fraud across the region. Legal and financial experts are braced for a rise in fraud enquiries from public and private sector clients. “There was already a heightened awareness thanks to the introduction of the Fraud Act 2006, which made prosecutions easier,” said Mark Goodwin, head of litigation and regulatory at law firm DLA Piper’s
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Liverpool office. “As the credit crunch bites, clients are looking closely at suspect areas with their accountants. We are expecting more investigation work to emerge.” Failures to meet forecasts or the need to manage bad news are two of the pressures which encourage fraud, Goodwin added. “The poor money supply can also add a certain incentive to make loan applications more attractive to lenders.” Prior to the new laws, offences had to be prosecuted as theft. But the Fraud Act criminalised a broad range of business practices – false
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representation, abuse of position and failure to disclose information. In practice, this covers issues such as manipulating tenders and quotes to secure work, any failure to be open and transparent with auditors or failing to correct representations which are no longer true. The use of inside information to protect positions was also outlawed. The maximum penalty on conviction for fraud is ten years in prison, unlimited fines, and the disqualification of directors. Companies can also be barred from procurement contracts across Europe. Goodwin believes organisations concerned about maintaining the highest standards of corporate governance should give serious thought to protecting whistleblowers, developing clear policies about how they handle allegations of fraud. But according to research by Royal Liver Building-based accountants Grant Thornton, the majority of workers who have blown the whistle in the UK will encounter difficulties. This is because only 40% of UK businesses have measures in place to accommodate those wanting to expose misdemeanours. So how should companies react when a whistleblower comes forward? “It falls on leaders in the private and public sectors to protect those who wish to simply do the right thing,” says Sally Longworth, a partner at Grant Thornton who heads up its forensic and investigation services unit in the North West. “Anyone making a disclosure should be treated as a ‘witness’ rather than a ‘complainant’ and should be reassured that, if they make a disclosure in confidence, they will be protected. However, they should also be made aware there may be circumstances where the matter cannot be resolved without their identity being revealed, such as where their evidence is required in any subsequent court or employment tribunal proceedings.” Yet despite the new laws, most corporate fraud still goes undetected. “There’s a popular misconception
“As the credit crunch bites, clients are looking at suspect areas with their accountants. We are expecting more investigation work to emerge”
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that an ordinary audit will pick up fraud,” Longworth continued. “In fact, that’s not what an audit is designed to do. It may or may not uncover something. If anyone is concerned about fraud, what’s required is a proper investigation.” She believes a great deal of fraud goes unpunished either because the police cannot afford to put resources into investigations or because companies who discover they have been cheated do not report it for fear of damaging their reputation. From next spring, allegations and reports of fraud will be recorded in the first instance by the National Fraud Reporting Centre (NFRC), which works in conjunction with the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, both of which will be part of the newly established National Fraud Strategic Authority. The NFRC will collate information and, with the assistance of the City of London Police, the UK’s lead force on fraud, refer the matter to the most suitable force, should the circumstances and evidence warrant it. “It does sound bureaucratic and jargonistic but one of the major issues with fraud is that it can be crossjurisdictional and problems tend to get pushed around as a result. “A company in Newcastle might be worried about a subsidiary in Liverpool that appears to be in fraudulent collusion with a supplier in London – which force investigates? The NFRC should help solve this type of problem,” Longworth added. “We think a lot of investigations will come back to us. Let’s say the MD of a manufacturing firm rings up the NFRC and says he has a concern about whether his FD is siphoning money out of the business. They are likely to say – ‘What’s your evidence?’ and the MD might be inclined to reply, ‘Isn’t that your job to help me establish if a fraud has been committed?’ In reality, no. “To get anywhere, the onus is likely to be on businesses to establish a strong case, which is where we will come in.” L I V E R P O O L
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LDP
LEGAL
Law firms look east to save costs DO THE BENEFITS OF OUTSOURCING OUTWEIGH THE RISK TO JOBS AND QUALITY CONTROL? BY BEN SCHOFIELD LEGAL behemoth Clifford Chance is outsourcing part of their core business to an Indian firm. High Street banks and national rail enquiries were among the first to employ thousands in call centres in Mumbai and elsewhere on the sub-continent. But Clifford Chance’s move east shows the industry is becoming more sophisticated. Mumbai firm Integreon will help them set up in India − to do more than just back office work.
HELEN BROUGHTON MANAGING PARTNER OF NORTH WESTBASED MORECROFTS SOLICITORS “There is a strong business case for outsourcing legal services but this is something which can have risks and serious downsides. “My immediate concern would be over quality. With the loss of control over outsourced legal work, I would be worried whether the procedures and practices that ensure the quality of standard were followed. 42 M A G A Z I N E
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And industry-watchers say more legal work will follow as the UK economy suffers a recession. Integron directors boast work can be done in India for a “fraction” of the domestic price. It is possible intellectual property, contracts and litigation cases could be completed overseas, saving law firms a tidy sum in the process. Could Merseyside law firms follow Clifford Chance’s lead? LDP Business asked four of the top firms their opinion of outsourcing.
“I also think that outsourcing work, even if it is minor litigation like conveyancing or small car accident claims, will have a serious impact on the future of the profession. We need to ensure that we keep the variety of work in this country and continue to develop the different skills that working for all branches of the law provides. Outsourcing could badly affect that. “Obviously, firms point to the cost benefits of outsourcing, but in these
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difficult times clients are attracted to firms who can deal with them personally − they want to see who is doing the legal work that may relate to a major accident they’ve had or to the biggest purchase (and risk) they have ever taken. “If firms need to cut costs, I would look to outsourcing IT and telecommunications first, or bringing in new technologies such as automatic document production and workflow systems to save costs, rather than outsourcing our core legal services.”
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Helen Broughton
David Worrall
DAVID WORRALL SENIOR LAWYER AT LIVERPOOL INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW SPECIALIST SHIPLEY SOLICITORS “At Shipley Solicitors, we have outsourced some of our accounting functions. There still has to be contact to make the relationships work − the outsource companies are not psychic! “When you have got the right outsourcing partner, it can work brilliantly. These are partners who have worked with companies like yours before and will already know that you need x, y and z to make your project a success. “Outsourcing can be much less successful if you don’t have that understanding. It can become quite a painful process because you’ve got to sit down and decide what you want and communicate it. That can seem like pulling teeth and takes a lot of time when the whole point of outsourcing in the first place was to save you time. “I can see where outsourcing some administration functions is relevant and straight forward, for example, Document Direct is basically a typing service for companies. “You can’t say ‘it’s only a back office function’: everything matters, especially if it’s a small business. It’s important to remember you are relinquishing control, but you can introduce certain measures, such as spelling out your requirements and highlighting any complaints.”
Lawrence Downey
LAWRENCE DOWNEY SENIOR PARTNER AT MACE & JONES “Outsourcing may be seen as a threat to jobs in the UK, but if the primary role of a law firm is to deliver cost-effective services to its clients, then, as fees come under ever greater pressure, outsourcing of certain legal functions is likely to be increasingly important.
“As fees come under ever greater pressure, outsourcing of legal functions is likely to be increasingly important” “The important things law firms need to consider would include the quality of the work delivered by the overseas supplier, and speed of response. This is assisted by substantial familiarity with the legal processes, and even the substantive law involved. “In fact, it’s an opportunity, in a downturn, to support profit and preserve jobs while still saving money for the client. That demonstrates what a powerful and positive tool it can be. Mace & Jones is a member of Legalink − 59 firms in 43 countries − and in fact engaged in some discussion with a member firm in South East Asia about outsourcing five or six years ago. “Although it wasn’t appropriate to implement the idea at that time, the concept has remained on the table. Is it good or bad? It will only survive if it’s good for clients. If it’s good for clients, it will reflect well on law firms.” M A G A Z I N E
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KEITH FEENY DIRECTOR OF IT AND OPERATIONS FOR NATIONAL COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM HILL DICKINSON “The debate into the pros and cons of outsourcing is well documented. In the current economic climate, however, the consideration of whether to outsource has to extend beyond simply the business benefits and take into account the wider HR and economic impact. “Whilst on paper, the advantages can often outweigh the disadvantages; the immediate financial benefits are frequently prioritised and used as the ‘casting vote’. But it is not always wise to view an outsourcing exercise simply as a cost reduction exercise. “Improved efficiencies, quality of service and flexibility, coupled with a reduction in management time and training and recruitment costs, are regularly balanced against loss of control, information security issues, problems, understanding foreign or regional accents and loss of in-house skills in the general debate. “Employee reaction to the outsourcing and the potential redundancies that may arise is less regularly discussed. Morale and quality of other work may suffer and, whilst there is hopefully a financial benefit to the business and an inevitable contribution to the economies of the developing countries providing the services, there can be a reciprocal negative impact on both the local and national economy by outsourcing the work abroad. It can become an ethical debate.” L I V E R P O O L
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Think China, Act Regional opportunties in China’s regional cities NORTH West businesses are urged to make the most of emerging opportunities in China’s regional cities in a new report from UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and the China British Business Council (CBBC). China is well established as a priority high-growth market which British businesses would be foolish to ignore, but traditionally UK companies have focused on a small number of large, established markets. However, a detailed research project undertaken by UKTI and CBBC in conjunction with the Centre for International Business at the University of Leeds, has identified 35 additional regional cities offering great potential as business locations for UK companies. The political and economic importance of cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Guangzhou has attracted a huge amount of foreign business and investment over the last two decades, but now these markets are becoming saturated. Competition is intensifying and labour and land costs are increasing. As a result, companies need to look to alternative locations in China for business expansion and development. Cities such as Dalian, Dongguan, Hangzhou, Qingdao, Shenyang, Suzhou, Tainjin, Weifang, Weihai, Wuhan and Yantai all offer a positive overall business environment across a range of sectors, and companies hoping to develop their business there in the near future will gain a key advantage as early movers, helping them establish a strong market position ahead of competitors. Despite the current global economic climate, China continues to register solid GDP growth, on average 10% per annum. The country is currently the 44 M A G A Z I N E
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Clive Drinkwater, International Trade Director for UKTi North West
world’s fourth largest economy and is predicted to overtake Germany as the third largest by the end of 2008. Much of the recent growth of China’s economy can be attributed to a rapid
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acceleration in the rate of urbanisation, which is set to continue. Currently around 600m Chinese people live in cities and this is predicted to increase to 1bn by 2030 (figure from McKinsey Global Institute 2008), presenting huge opportunities in a number of areas including infrastructure, healthcare, education, housing, environmental protection and financial services. Clive Drinkwater, International Trade Director for UKTI North West, has particular experience of the market having lived and worked in China, and has visited many of the 35 cities identified in the report. He says: “Historically, China has had a comparative advantage in the manufacture of low-cost products, but this is becoming a thing of the past. There is growing pressure on firms to develop higher value-added products and services, and UK companies are well placed to take advantage of this,
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delivering sophisticated products, services and technologies. “For companies who adopt a long term view and are prepared to develop their business in China away from traditional locations, there are wide ranging business opportunities. Of course, UK companies will face challenges in the form of government policies, market forces and operational barriers, but UKTI and CBBC are working together to ensure that companies are well informed and properly prepared to enter these markets.” Jessica Zhang of the China Britain Business Council adds: “The rapid rate of expansion, urbanisation and economic growth in China offers considerable opportunities to UK businesses in a range of sectors. The regional cities identified in this report all share characteristics of rapid economic growth, low input costs, large and developing consumer and industrial
markets and strong local government support. Combined, the 35 regional cities listed in the report account for around 16% of China’s population and 36% of China’s GDP. “UK Trade & Investment and the China Britain Business Council are the UK’s leading sources for China business information, advice, consultancy and services and with our extensive partner network available through British Embassies and Consulate Generals, as well as the 11 CBBC offices across China, we are well placed to help the North West’s businesses successfully capitalise on opportunities.” For more information on UKTI services, trade missions, events and seminars, visit the UKTI website, www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk or contact the North West regional team on 0845 603 7053. Email info@uktinorthwest.co.uk.
Think China, Act Regional workshop UK Trade & Investment and China Britain Business Council in the North West have arranged a special workshop with HSBC to help companies identify and explore opportunities away from China’s established, traditional cities and how best to capitalise on them. Think China, Act Regional: Opportunities for UK Companies in China will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2009 at HSBC, Hardman Square, Manchester, and is ideal for companies either considering entry into China for the first time, or already operating in China and hoping to expand their markets. Contact Jessica Zhang on 0845 603 7053 or email Jessica.zhang@cbbc.org.
Great potential in China’s growing ecomony CHINA, currently the world’s only significantly growing economy, offers huge prospects for UK businesses, especially those in the North West, as the region diversifies from an established manufacturing base into high-tech, service oriented sectors. Since China joined the World Trade Organisation, it is on course to become the world’s largest economy within the next generation. There is great potential in the China market for companies from the North West region, especially businesses from the Liverpool and Merseyside area. The China Britain Business Council (CBBC), as the UK’s leading agency providing independent China business information, advice, consultancy and services for UK companies, has always regarded Liverpool as one of its key regional focuses. CBBC‘s North West Office was first established in 2002. Jessica Zhang, the North West Regional Manager, is based in Manchester Trafford Park together with the UKTI North West International Trade Team, to deliver CBBC services and
to provide business advice to companies in the North West Region. Since October 2008 CBBC has worked closely with regional partners in Liverpool. Jessica Zhang now spends one day per week at the Liverpool Vision office to offer practical business advice to companies based in the region. CBBC has been working with key stakeholders in the region, including Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, Liverpool City Council, Liverpool Vision, Professional Liverpool, the University of Liverpool and the Shanghai Liverpool Partnership. They will be working together on prestigious events such as the Shanghai Expo 2010 project to provide practical business support and to create a better platform for Merseyside companies to showcase their capabilities in China. Together with UKTI North West International Trade Centre, CBBC took a business delegation to China in September, visiting Shenzhen, Shanghai and Chongqing. Mark Chadwick, chief executive of Professionaliverpool, joined the mission to all three cities. M A G A Z I N E
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Jessica Zhang, Regional Manager China- Britain Business Council North West
The trip identified new and exciting opportunities for Liverpool businesses in the professional financial service sector. For one-to-one business meetings/advice, contact Jessica Zhang, CBBC North West Manager at jessica.zhang@cbbc.org or 0161 875 2332 or 07932 571 940. See the website for more information: www.cbbc.org. L I V E R P O O L
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Peel Ports Group’s marketing director, Frank Robotham, gives Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Shiv Shankar Mukherjee, a tour of the Port of Liverpool
Indian growth creates new opportunities for region’s firms OVERLAP IN KEY SECTORS MEANS LIVERPOOL COULD RIDE ON THE BACK OF THE TIGER THE fast pace of development in India is having a significant impact on the UK economy. This year alone it is expected to be worth £8bn, but it is not just the levels of bilateral trade that are showing a burgeoning relationship. In March there was the high-profile takeover of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) by Tata Motors for £1.15bn, a prime example of the growing influence of Indian firms in the Liverpool city region. Tata Motors, which is developing what it claims will be the world’s cheapest car, the Nano, is one part of the huge Tata group. Tata already owns Cheshire chemicals firm Brunner Mond, as well as steel company Corus and Tetley Tea. It has long been a household name in 46 M A G A Z I N E
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India, and is on its way to becoming one in the UK. The group has 98 operating companies and had revenues in 2006/07 of around £14bn – the equivalent of about 3.2% of India’s gross domestic product. Globally, it employs nearly 300,000 people. The takeover was another sign for the UK that Indian companies have grown in confidence and are looking to expand globally. Other Indian companies with significant UK investments include the Apeejay Surrendra Group, which bought Typhoo Tea for £80m three years ago. Brian Thorp, North West director of the UK India Business Council, said: “The relationship is getting better. The amount of bilateral trade is growing –
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it’s about the same in each direction – and the amount of trade in the last two to five years has increased significantly.” In the eight months to August, the Asian country was 19th on the list of importers to the UK, with £2.9bn – a 15% increase on the same period last year. Goods moving in the other direction have increased more sharply, with a 23% rise in exports. Goods worth £2.3bn left the UK for India up to the end of August, making it the UK’s 15th largest market. “Inward investment, such as Tata’s takeover of Jaguar Land Rover, is on the increase because of the Indian economy,” Mr Thorp said. “A lot of Indian companies have a lot of spare cash about so they are quite hungry.
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“It’s also a natural business partner. The language is the same and the Indian legal and financial systems are very similar to the UK.” And it will be in the UK’s interest to develop the relationship between the two countries in the coming months and years as the Indian economy continues to grow quickly while the developed western economies are set for a period of struggling. Mr Thorp said: “The strength of the Indian economy compared with the UK means trading with India will become more important.” The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted a fall in Indian growth rates, to 6.3% for 2009, but the Indian government still has a target of 10% growth for 2010/11. By contrast, the IMF is forecasting that the UK’s economy will contract by 1.3%, while advanced economies will shrink by 0.3%. Mr Thorp said: “India has two key strengths that make it an attractive country to do business with. “Firstly, they are growing massively and have got a very large, growing, middle class – and a very young, welleducated population. They have more
money to spend and they are very ambitious. “Secondly, they have some very well-educated, well-skilled people in areas such as IT. They also have a very strong financial sector, and creative and media industries – which includes Bollywood. India has a number of key sectors, for example automotive and pharmaceutical, which match with the North West quite nicely.” Tata’s takeover of JLR and the takeover in January of Widnes-based Hale Group and its subsidiary, Merseyside healthcare group Bell Sons & Co by Indian pharmaceuticals firm Marksans Pharma are good examples of this fit. Mr Thorp is confident that the continuing efforts to develop the trade relationship will pay dividends in the future, with the possibility of an important infrastructure link being put in place. “The manufacturing costs are a lot lower in India – and companies do not need to worry about the quality. It makes us more competitive as well,” he said. “I think the trade relationship will get stronger, the current trend will continue.
“The strength of the Indian economy compared with the UK means trading with India will become more important”
Tata Motors chairman Ratan Tata spent £1.15bn acquiring Jaguar Land Rover, including the plant at Halewood M A G A Z I N E
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The Indian High Commissioner, Shiv Shankar Mukherjee (front row, left) spent two days in Liverpool in October seeing what the city has to offer. The delegation is pictured with Liverpool Chamber’s chief executive Jack Stopforth (front, right) and head of international trade Alison Fisher
“For the North West, there are a lot of initiatives to focus more effort on India and its trade with the UK through support organisations like UK Trade & Investment, the North West Regional Development Agency and UKIBC. “One or two of the big Indian airlines are looking to open up a route to the North West. There are no direct flights from Manchester to India, but that may come off in the near future.” Direct transport links are a key part of creating a strong long-term relationship, making it easier for companies to work together. Frank Robotham, marketing director of Peel Ports, which operates the Port of Liverpool and the Manchester Ship Canal, believes a direct shipping link between Liverpool and India would give a huge boost to the North West economy. He said: “Our intelligence shows that a direct container shipping 48 M A G A Z I N E
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service between the Indian subcontinent and Liverpool would be an outstanding success, and would make a major contribution to enhancing the competitiveness of North West trade with India. It would also reduce the volume of traffic to the North West via the UK’s south coast ports.” The Indian High Commissioner, Shiv Shankar Mukherjee, recently visited the port and received a tour of Royal Seaforth grain terminal and the container terminal. It was part of a two-day visit to Liverpool by Mr Mukherjee which was designed to encourage trade between his country and Merseyside. Jack Stopforth, Liverpool Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive, said: “Mr Mukherjee is keen to expand trade to the regions of the UK and he sees Liverpool as a city with potential. “We are already aware of a significant number of local businesses with trading links with India, from blue chip giants such as Typhoo and Jaguar
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Land Rover to a wider range of SMEs. “In fact, Mr Mukherjee was keen to emphasise the importance of SMEs in the economic mix of both UK and India, and the importance of UK SMEs in getting involved in import and export. “India is a market that will provide high returns for British companies offering high quality, competitive products and following today’s meeting, it’s a market that we will be making an effort to promote.” However, making an effort is something that British companies have to do, as doing business with Indian firms can be, at times, a very frustrating experience. “One of the big issues with doing business in India is it takes a long time to do things,” said Mr Thorp. “There’s a lot of bureaucracy around. There’s a phrase which sums it up nicely: ‘The British invented bureaucracy but the Indians perfected it.’”
1-16 WIN feature
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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
Bucking the trend MERSEYSIDE AUCTION MARKET SEES GROWTH AHEAD WHILE the mainstream UK property market plummets there is one area of the sector that is seeing good levels of activity − auctions. In Merseyside there are now there are five firms regularly holding property auctions and, with the number of home repossessions on the rise, there are some bargains to be had.
Established players are Sutton Kersh, Venmore and Smith & Sons. Two new operations − Merseyside Property Auctions and Whitegates − have also started up this year. With the commercial and residential property markets remaining troubled into 2009, the auction sector looks to play an ever more important role.
Comm ercial property Turn to page 59
AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SECTOR ENCOMPASSING OFFICE, INDUSTRIAL AND RETAIL
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MoD offices
Walker house
MoD staff relocate to Exchange Flags UK LAND AND POCHIN COMPLETE REFURBISHMENT OF 70,000 SQ FT AROUND 600 staff from the Ministry of Defence have started moving into their new Liverpool city centre home after the completion of its refurbishment. Last year the MoD agreed to take 70,000 sq ft of office space at Walker House, part of the Exchange Flags complex in the heart of the central business district. Joint venture developers UK Land & Property and Pochin undertook the fit-out on behalf of the MoD, which will occupy a third of the building and incorporate its own dedicated entrance. It is expected all the staff will have moved into the building by the end
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of December. Walker House is undergoing a £15m refurbishment to transform the former vacant building into office accommodation with floorplates ranging from 9,332 sq ft to 26,700 sq ft. This is the final phase of the regeneration of Exchange Flags, bringing 450,000 sq ft of space to the market. Paul Johnson, director at UK Land & Property, said: “By carrying out the comprehensive refurbishment on behalf of the MoD, we created a turn-key package specific to its requirements. “Having now completed this phase to programme, we are now working
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towards the completion of the remaining 140,000 sq ft, which will be ready for occupation by January 2009.” The project follows the completion of its counterpart, Horton House, and is now home to Brabners Chaffe Street, Deloitte, Regus, Knight Frank and Ryder Architecture. UK Land and Pochin acquired the Exchange Flags complex from its former owner, Bill Davies, who had allowed it to stay virtually empty for more than 15 years. Knight Frank, King Sturge and Keppie Massie are joint office agents for the scheme.
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Grade A office plan for Rolls site NEXT PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCED FOR ATLANTIC PARK ROYAL London Asset Management will begin work next year turning the former Rolls Royce administrative headquarters in south Sefton into a grade A office scheme. Rolls’ gas turbines factory on the Atlantic Park site closed earlier this year with the loss of hundreds of jobs. Royal London now plans to start refurbishing the 36,000 sq ft Malin House in the spring and hope it will be ready for occupation by the autumn of 2009. Last week the developer officially unveiled the first phase of the Atlantic Park scheme - a £7m office building comprising 54,000 sq ft of grade A space. The building provides the frontage to the Atlantic Park site, off Dunningsbridge Road, and is aiming for a rental price of £14.50 per sq ft. It marks the completion of phase one of the site’s redevelopment into north Liverpool’s first mixed-use business park. The office building has already attracted significant interest from local occupiers keen to join One Vision Housing, which will move there next year. Nigel Lax of Industrial Securities, which represents Royal London Asset Management, said: “North Liverpool is known for its established industrial and commercial base but it has lacked a
high quality mixed use offering like Atlantic Park. “In particular, there’s been a real need for high quality office space and this building is clearly meeting demand. “Overall the site’s excellent location, major transport links and prominent frontage make this prime space for a wide variety of businesses and we expect it to continue the regeneration of Bootle and Sefton.” A formal celebration to mark the ongoing transformation of the disused site, formerly known as Atlantic Industrial Estate, was attended by the mayor of Sefton, Councillor Paul Tweed, as well as representatives from funding
partners the Northwest Development Agency and The European Objective One Programme for Merseyside. Cllr Tweed said: “Bootle’s regeneration has been going apace and it’s fantastic to see outside investors recognising the area’s potential. This scheme looks set to attract new businesses, opportunities and create much needed jobs.” Atlantic Park was also able to confirm the recent letting to Sulzer Pumps of 90,000 sq ft of industrial space, which will be soon vacated by Rolls Royce. Mr Lax added: “This major letting is great news for the site and further endorsement of the potential for mixed use development.”
HEATH STARTS WORKS ON MAJOR EXPANSION Work has started on the first phase of a multi-million pound expansion scheme at The Heath Business and Technical Park in Runcorn. In November, just days after receiving planning permission, building commenced on two identical office blocks each 9,500 square feet. They will cost around £3m to build. Earlier this year, SOG – owner and operator of The Heath – unveiled plans to add 180,000 sq ft of offices and laboratories to the existing site which will increase the workforce at the award-winning business and science complex from 2,000 to over 3,000 workers in the next five years. With building firms around the country shelving projects in the face of the credit crunch, one of the UK’s most successful business parks is bucking the trend by starting
the development. The company moving in to the first of the new buildings will be Progressive Solutions, a tenant at The Heath since 2000. The company, which develops business management software for merchants and wholesalers in the construction sector, has continued to expand since its inception when it occupied two rooms at the park. Now employing 33 local people and with plans to recruit more new staff next month, the company has outgrown the 4,000 sq ft space it occupies in the existing building. SOG managing director, Dr Peter Cook, said: “Since we showcased our expansion plans back in April this year, the economic downturn has sent shockwaves through the business world.
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A computer generated image of Liverpool Produce Terminal located between the port’s existing container terminal (left) and its planned post-Panamax container terminal (above right)
Port of Liverpool to receive second LIFT THE SECOND PHASE OF THE LIVERPOOL INTERMODAL FREEPORT TERMINAL IS A KEY PART OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PORT SHIPS that are too big to pass through the Panama Canal will be docking in Liverpool from 2012 as the Port of Liverpool continues to grow. The £100m post-Panamax in-river container terminal in Seaforth will nearly double the port’s capacity to 1.5m containers, or twenty-foot equivalent units (teus). In 1990, the port handled 219,000 teus, but, 16 years later, the amount of cargo had nearly trebled to 635,000 teus. More than 34m tonnes of cargo passed through last year, and it now handles more container trade with the USA and Canada than any other port in the UK. The planned terminal will enable volumes to grow considerably as Liverpool will be able to welcome postPanamax ships, vessels that can hold up to twice as much cargo as traditional, Panamax, ships. It will be able to hold two ships at a time, allowing the port to compete with Felixstowe and Southampton, the two UK ports that handle post-Panamax ships presently. 54 M A G A Z I N E
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The plans have received approval in the form of a Harbour Revision Notice and construction will start in 2009, with completion scheduled for 2011-12. Peel Ports Group’s marketing director, Frank Robotham, said: “The new terminal will be a further significant boost to industry in the North of England and beyond. “To date, post-Panamax vessels have only had the option to berth in UK south coast ports. Once the new terminal is opened in Liverpool, then industry throughout the North and Midlands can enjoy the dual benefits of being able to respond to the demands of international logistics through their own local port, utilising these larger vessels which bring their own economies of scale.” The increased traffic and terminal capacity demand more quayside storage and there are two key developments underway. The second phase of the Liverpool Intermodal Freeport Terminal (LIFT) and a £6m cool store facility, the P O S T
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A computer generated image of phase two of Peel Ports' Liverpool Intermodal Freeport Terminal Liverpool Produce Terminal, will significantly boost the port’s cargo handling ability. Peel Ports, the owners of the Port of Liverpool and the Manchester Ship Canal, is currently developing the second phase, which received planning permission in April. The first phase, a 70-acre expansion of the port and free zone providing 600,000 sq ft of warehousing, is nearly a decade old. The development is fully let and has attracted companies including RH Group, Christian Salvesen and Stanton Grove to LIFT. The plans are for more than 400,000 sq ft of warehousing space on 70 acres of land between Derby Road and Regent Road, which will increase the port’s capacity to 4m sq ft. Robotham said: “This significant development within the secure environment of the Port of Liverpool and Liverpool Freeport continues to reflect the demand from logistics companies to be part of a port community that
offers a strategic location which maximises efficiency and minimises distribution costs. “Completion of the LIFT project is just one element in the long-term expansion plan for the Port of Liverpool as the North and North West of England’s natural, costeffective gateway to world sea routes.” One other element is The Liverpool Produce Terminal, which will provide 90,000 sq ft of cool store capacity when it is completed. The UK imports 10m tonnes of fresh produce by ship every year and the operators of LPT, Go-Associates, have targeted to receive 500,000 tonnes through Liverpool. It hopes that a combination of its location, which makes it the closest deep-sea port for 30m people, and the extensive motorway network, means produce can be rapidly distibuted direct to supermarkets. Go-Associates operations director, Andy Rickard, said: “Most of this major trade is moved by road on trucks carrying just 26 pallets each from the main growing areas
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Frank Robotham, Peel Ports Group’s marketing director of Spain. The situation cries out for high volume direct delivery by sea. “Liverpool Produce Terminal will maintain the cool chain but eliminate up to two truck journeys from the logistics chain – the journey to and from the pack house as we are planning to open a pack house adjacent to the terminal. “Food shippers are increasingly responsive to growing public concern about greenhouse emissions and the contribution to this problem made by road haulage – as cited by the recent commitment of some 40 members of the food and drink industry federation to cut the environmental and social impact of domestic food transport by 20% by 2012.” The terminal will have capacity for 5,000 tonnes of fruit and vegetables and will be able to discharge a 4,000 pallet vessel in 24 hours direct from ship to store. The four storage chambers will have a temperature range of -5° to +14°. However, although the future looks very bright, a timebomb that has been ticking since 2005 could now blow a big hole in the port’s progress as a huge hike in business rates is threatening the future of firms based at the port. In a shake-up of how rates are set and collected in ports, tenants in all the region’s docks received backdated tax bills in October. Asking for hugely inflated rates and back-dating them to April, 2005, they threaten to bring with them the spectres of numerous insolvencies and wholesale redundancies.
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The 600,000 sq ft of phase one of Liverpool Intermodal Freeport Terminal is fully-let The Valuations Office Agency – which, as part of HM Revenue and Customs, sets the rates companies need to pay – embarked on the revaluation of the UK’s 55 ports in May, 2006. New legislation shifted how business rates are to be paid in ports. Whereas previously the port operator and owner would pay, tenants are now being directly charged for the rent based on the value of their site. And because business rates are based on five-yearly valuations – the last of which should have been conducted by April 1, 2005 – the tax bills are being back-dated three years. While port tenants were aware the changes were imminent, the combined effect of the tax hike and having to stump up for three years’ tax at once has caught many off guard. Intensive lobbying has taken place but any solution remains unclear. And if it is not resolved satisfactorily for existing tenants, it could cause serious problems for the continued growth at the port.
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S TA N L E Y S T R E E T · L I V E R P O O L · L 1
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713 sq.ft – 6,000 sq.ft Granite Building is located at the hub of Liverpool’s business district and has on-site parking, together with : I I
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0151 523 8790 (0908)
www.orbit-developments.co.uk orbit-developments @ emerson.co.uk
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Great golf and corporate facilities at Formby Hall FORMBY HALL Golf Club announced in 2006 that it was set to become the UK’s first affiliated PGA national residential golf academy and would be open in time for the 2008 Open Championship. Following a £10million investment, it officially re-launched in July as Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa and offers a unique hospitality, leisure and golf product. Its 62-bedroom hotel opened in October last year and has had unprecedented success with occupancy levels exceeding expectations. Formby Hall has maximised the opportunities Liverpool’s Capital of Culture status has presented, with the hotel reaching full-capacity during events such as the MTV awards and La Machine. The hotel was fully booked for the 2008 Open and hosted players including Padraig Harrington, Colin Montgomerie, Jack Nichlaus and Nick Faldo. Nick Faldo was so impressed with the facilities, that include a PGA academy, driving range, 18-hole golf course and one of the best nine-hole courses in the world, he has instructed his Faldo events team to organise a prestigious golf event at the resort. With two conference rooms catering from 30 to 300 people, Formby Hall was well placed to capitalise on the
2008 conferencing market and attracted firms such as Rolex, RBS and Bentley. Organisations have been attracted by the corporate add-ons available at Formby Hall; such as the bespoke corporate golf packages that include lessons from golf professionals, swing enhancement, tournaments and competitions. Going forward, 2009 is set to be a lucrative year with Formby Hall well placed to establish itself as one of the leading resorts in the UK. Tim Cowell, Business Development Manager at Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa, said: “We’ve had a great first year with 2008 being the year of the open both in terms of the famous golfing event and our launch. The Open has put Merseyside and Formby Hall on the world stage and has allowed us to become synonymous with golfing excellence. We have reaped the benefits of The Open and Liverpool’s Capital of Culture status and look set to build on this in 2009.”
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New Port Business Park
Ellesmere Port
A £5 million development of seven high specification units on a brand new business park. Architecturally designed office/workshop units arranged in a mono-pitch terrace, with service access to the rear and mezzanine office accommodation. Quay 1 is situated in an accessible location on Newbridge Road, off Junction 10 of the M53 at Ellesmere Port and is also accessible from Junction 9 via Oil Sites Road. • Generous service yard • Separate staff and visitor car park with excellent vehicular circulation • 3 Phase electricity supply • Sensor security alarms • Secure and gated service yard • Gas heated office and workshop area • Electric roller shutter doors to rear service yard • Unit sizes range from approximately 3500 - 6200 sq ft GIA • Units are available on flexible lease terms • Price on application • Ready for occupation now
ELLESMERE PORT AND NESTON BOROUGH COUNCIL
1
Quay For more information please contact 0151 356 6871
ep &n
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Andrew Binstock, auctioneer for Sutton Kersh Auctions
Under the hammer PROPERTY AUCTION MARKET EXPANDS DESPITE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN BY TONY MCDONOUGH THURSDAY, February 19, 2004 is a day that will not be forgotten by Liverpool’s property sector. More than 1,000 people laid siege to the city’s Adelphi Hotel for a property auction held by Sutton Kersh. Just months before, Liverpool had been awarded Capital of Culture status for 2008, news that had sparked a property boom as investors believed prices would soar in the run up to the big year. Buyers from all over the country turned up at the hotel and many found themselves locked out of the room. Such was the bidding frenzy, properties were being sold for up to three times their guide price. On the day, Sutton Kersh sold 114 properties, raising almost £8.5m. In April that year, Kersh held a two-day mega auction with more than 300 lots on offer. That event raised a staggering £12m. Things have calmed down somewhat since then, but the Merseyside market remains busy, despite the economic downturn. Kersh’s October auction saw £3.4m raised, with 60% of the 87 lots on offer being sold. There are now five auction operators in the Merseyside
market. Sutton Kersh is the biggest player and Wirralbased Smith & Sons the oldest. This year has also seen two new players enter the market − Merseyside Property Auctions and Whitegates. Venmore’s auctions look set to continue after a rescue deal for the firm was completed with Wirral estate agents Bradshaw, Farnham & Lea taking over the business. David Sandeman is managing director of the Essential Information Group, recognised as the UK’s leading source of information and data on the property auction market. He claims the market will hold up, even during a severe recession, as it is driven by different dynamics than the sale of properties through estate agents. “For many vendors, the auction room is the last chance saloon,” he said. “At the end of the day, assets have to change hands for losses to be crystallised. If you really need to sell a property, then as long as it has the right reserve price and enough people know about it, then it will sell at auction.” EIG’s figures show that properties are continuing to be
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James Kersh and Andrew Binstock of Sutton Kersh Auctions sold through auctions despite the slowdown. Across the UK in September, there were 4,104 properties under the hammer, with 61% successfully sold. That is down from 70% in September 2007, but still compares favourably with the mainstream market, where the volume of sales year-on-year dropped by more than 50%. Sandeman added: “Obviously, the market is slower than it was 12 to 18 months ago, but properties are still being sold. The gap between the prices vendors will accept and what people are prepared to pay has narrowed. “There are definite differences between selling at auction and through an estate agent. People who sell through an estate agent tend to actually live in the property and therefore have a emotional attachment to it. The properties tend to be well maintained. “Those people tend not to be prepared to accept a lower valuation, even if their own opinion of what it is worth is unrealistic. “However, very few people who sell through auction will live in their properties. They see them as an asset and are far more realistic in their valuation.” Sandeman says the other key factor driving the auction market is in the increase in repossessions caused by the worsening economic situation. He added: “In the year to October 2007 there were 159 repossessions in the North West. In the year to October 2008 the number was 295 - that’s almost double. “Lenders will tend to put between 15-20% of repossessed properties through auction. The market at the moment is very competitive and auction houses are
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David Sandeman of the Essential Information Group actually turning properties away that don’t have the right reserve price. “Buying and selling at auction is a much more straightforward and transparent process.” The market is certainly competitive here in Merseyside and Sutton Kersh director James Kersh is confident the sector will continue to thrive in the economic downturn. He said: “Traditionally, auction has remained relatively unaffected during periods of economic downturn. This is because there is always a need for auction and in times of hardship the auction room can provide the invaluable opportunity of achieving a quick sale. “If a property sells successfully at auction, then the selling process can be as quick as eight weeks from the point of instruction. “The credit crisis started in September 2007 with the collapse of Northern Rock. Many markets were feeling the impact of reduced consumer confidence by the end of the year. “Auction results remained at a good level. We achieved sales of 84% and 72% in February and April of this year from catalogues comprising 83 and 93 lots respectively. “Sales dropped off in the middle of the year due to a combination of factors including the lack of credit availability, reduced confidence and media reports about falling house prices making property appear a less desirable investment. “The market has improved since September due to vendors becoming more realistic with their reserve prices and an increase in the number of repossession properties coming in to the market.
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Merseyside Property Auctions Number 5 Prescot Street Liverpool L7 8UE T : 0151 260 9873 F : 0151 260 9779 E : k.hughes@mpalimited.co.uk
www.mpalimited.co.uk Merseyside Property Auctions, offers a fresh, modern approach backed up with years of solid experience. We believe in putting our customers first by providing an individually tailored service. We offer free appraisals, viewing six days a week, regular updates and feedback and the MOST COMPETITIVE FEES ON MERSEYSIDE. And we are totally independent. That means we can provide impartial, reliable advice to you, our customers. Managing Director Kate Hughes has almost a decade of experience in the property world with a strong track record of achievement. Nominated for Your Move magazine’s Women in Property Award, Kate is dynamic and go-ahead focussing on customer satisfaction
Instructions are now being taken for our forthcoming auction to be held at: The Crowne Plaza Hotel (formerly The Marriot) The Aerodrome, Speke, Liverpool Commencing 12 noon on 19th February 2009 Closing date 28th January 2009
Call now for a free no obligation valuation : 0151 260 9873
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“If anything, buying and selling at auction is a safer bet for buyer and seller. Auction sales are quick, certain and legally binding and there are real low cost propery bargains to be picked up”
Chris Johnson of Smith & Sons “Investors with funding available to buy are returning to the market and taking advantage of the many great deals available. Prices at auction have come down by approximately 25-30% since this time last year. “The slashing of interest rates will hopefully lead to more flexible lending by banks. Once credit is made more readily available, I think we will see the majority of investors returning to the market to grab some deals and build up their portfolios.” Kersh is aware of increased competition in the market place but believes there are enough properties out there for them all to operate successfully. He added: “There has been large disparity in the results achieved by the different auction houses. The key to success in this market is setting realistic reserve prices. “Sutton Kersh has achieved a string of good results even in the current market conditions. Good performances and our efficient and expert service help us to attract vendors and bring in the crowds at each auction. It is that old saying − success breeds success.” Chris Johnson, partner at Smith & Sons in Wirral, is confident his firm will continue to do well, thanks to more than a century of experience in the market. He said: “‘Smith and Sons were founded in 1840 and we have been hosting auctions for 110 of those years, so we are pretty experienced in the market. “Our auctions, although traditionally Wirral-based, often include property in Liverpool and Cheshire. We have just started working with national brand Auction House and have been given their exclusive licence for property with a Liverpool and Wirral postcode. “Our next auction, on January 21 next year, will be
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the first under the banner Auction House Smith & Sons. “This alliance will not alter the people, venue and friendly service that we provide, but the Auction House brand, together with our own network of local agents, will offer national coverage in terms of advertising and promotion.” Johnson believes the auction market will “prosper” in the downturn as the swiftness and transparency of deals will prove to be attractive to buyers and sellers. He added: “ If anything, buying and selling at auction is a safer bet for buyer and seller. Auction sales are quick, certain and legally binding and there are real, low-cost property bargains to be picked up at a time when rental values are high. “At our last auction, we had properties available for bids as low as £40,000 to £50,000, which could achieve rental values of £500 per month. “For first time buyers, auction properties offer an affordable step onto the property ladder, particularly if the purchaser is able to turn their hand to renovating older property themselves. “The only downside, which is a downside for every sector at the moment, is the availability of finance. The recent substantial cut in interest rates should restore a degree of confidence, but it is important that these cuts are passed on to the customer by the banks. “Those buyers with available capital or available finance can pick up an outstanding deal at auction. “It is also of note that, since prices have dropped, we have had several past clients returning to auction sales who had been absent during the recent boom period.”
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Auctions Established more than 150 years ago, Venmores now boasts a team of highly experienced and committed property professionals, providing the complete range of services throughout Merseyside and the North West. ■ Utilising the latest technology. ■ Extensive expertise in undertaking detailed valuation inspections and property surveys. ■ Member of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. ■ Highest standard of professionalism, whilst providing efficient and effective service.
Forthcoming Auction Dates Thursday 19th February - Closing date - 9th January Thursday 2nd April - Closing date - 19th February Commencing at 12 noon Venue: The Marriot Hotel, Queen Square, Liverpool
Auction Department 8-10 Stanley Street, Liverpool, L1 6AF Telephone: 0151 236 6746 www.venmores.co.uk
Managment
Agency
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L to R: Kate Hughes, managing director of Merseyside Property Auctions, with colleagues Eleni Tsanikidis and Justine O'Meara
New kids on the block LATEST PLAYERS TO GET IN ON THE AUCTION ACTION BY TONY MCDONOUGH IT’S probably not quite accurate to say Kate Hughes is a new face on the Liverpool auction scene. Although her company, Merseyside Property Auctions (MPA), has only been in existence for a few months, Hughes spent the previous five years cutting her teeth at Sutton Kersh. The experience, skills and contacts she gained during that period convinced her the time was right to set up on her own. Working with a small staff from a shopfront office near to the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Hughes has already held her first event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Speke. Sales hit just under the £1m mark after almost 100 people attended the day-long auction, with a total of 34 lots up for grabs. Six further lots were sold prior to the auction, with the total sales reaching £998,000 and 40% of the lots on offer being sold. At the time of writing, she was just organising her next event that was due to take place in early December. “I had always wanted to set up on my own,” she said.
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“Of course, for the last few years, the market has been doing well, but despite there being a downturn now, I still thought the time was right to give it a go. “I believe auctions will do well in any market. At the moment, we are seeing a lot of repossessions coming through and I’m working with a number of estate agents who are sending through properties they are having trouble selling. “We are now hearing of properties in new developments that a year ago were priced at around £300,000. That has dropped as low as £100,000 but there are still no takers.” As mentioned in this feature, David Sandeman of the Essential Information Group said auction houses were turning properties away if they believed they weren’t suitable or wrongly valued. This tallies with Hughes’ experience. She added: “People are going to judge us on how many properties we sell on the day of the auction so we have to be very selective about the properties we will accept. “There are still vendors out there who have an unrealistic view of the value of their property.
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“I do believe there is enough work for all the auction houses in Merseyside. There are plenty of properties out there. I know of bigger investors who sold up about three years ago and are now coming back into the market”
Victoria James and Debbie Taylor of Whitegates Auctions
We have to try to explain to them what we think is achievable on the day.” Hughes acknowledges the ever worsening economic climate but is confident the auction market will remain active. “I do believe there is enough work for all the auction houses in Merseyside. There are plenty of properties out there. “I know of bigger investors who sold up around three years ago and are now coming back into the market. They can see there are now some good deals to be had.” Like MPA, Whitegates has only entered the auction market this year. However, the Whitegates estate agency brand is well established in the city. Director Victoria James said: “We held our first auction in June. We were already a well established estate agency in the city and we decided to get into the auction market because we could see the change that was coming. The number of repossessions was
increasing. “Having our own in-house auctioneer − Ian James − with more than 20 years of property experience, made the process relatively easy. “Now we are saying to people, don’t wait for your house to be repossessed − get it into the auction. “We are seeing a change in the type of buyer who is now coming to auctions. It is not just investors but a number of first time buyers too. Most will have never been in an auction room before and it’s a case of educating them on how it works and the benefits of it. “Properties do need to be priced right. We are having to turn some vendors away because their expectations of what price they can expect can be too high. “I think there is enough room in the market for the established players who have the experience. However, I think what we are all finding is that we are selling more properties before and after the auction than we are on the actual day.”
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HOW GREEN IS MY BUSINESS SPONSORED BY
Fit-out firm hits the road to save the planet MORRIS & SPOTTISWOOD INTRODUCES ECO-FRIENDLY HYBRID CARS ACROSS ITS FLEET. BY TONY MCDONOUGH WARRINGTON firm Morris & Spottiswood has introduced eco-friendly hybrid cars across its fleet in its latest effort to reduce its carbon footprint. The office-fitters and house building company, based in Leacroft Road, Birchwood, estimates the cars − Honda Civic Hybrids and Toyota Prius − will also help to slash fuel costs by 20%. Morris & Spottiswood is one of just a handful of companies that have introduced hybrids as part of its drive to cut carbon emissions. “We’re on the lookout for a range of ways to help us become more environmentally friendly and hybrid cars are a great way for us to really make an impact,” said Tony Hampson, Morris & Spottiswood managing director. “We’re really enjoying driving the new cars – they look fantastic and it’s a great feeling to know we are helping the environment.” As well as the new cars, the company is also planning to save fuel by introducing speed restrictors to all of its 208 vans, meaning they will now only be able to reach a speed of 68 mph. The eco-friendly car initiative follows the company’s decision to draft in environmental specialists Enviros to help put together a sustainability strategy that is set to be rolled out across the company. In September, site and office-based staff at the firm received energy saving tips on their mobile phones from the company’s chief executive, Chris Saxton, as part of the firm’s Green Week. During Green Week, all 600 of Morris & 66 M A G A Z I N E
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Spottiswood’s people were given energy efficient light bulbs to take home, and were given the chance to eat locally sourced food at lunchtime to illustrate the importance of carbon footprint awareness. A series of competitions also took place asking people to come up with energy efficient ideas. Three of the best ideas will be selected to roll out across the company, and the people behind the ideas will win a mountain bike. There will also be home recycling centres up for grabs to encourage people to recycle more of their waste at home.
Morris & Spottiswood manager John Mercer and roofer James Lee with their free, energy-saving light bulbs they got as part of the firm’s Green Week D A I L Y
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Left to right: Morris & Spottiswood project manager Tony Bowe and managing director of fit-out Tony Hampson try out one of the new hybrid cars Saxton said: “To combat climate change we need action across the board − at our workplaces as well as in the home. “By organising a week of green-themed activities, we enthused our entire team and got everyone thinking of ways to reduce their own carbon footprint. “In the current economic climate, it’s never been more important for all businesses to act on climate change and it makes perfect business sense to empower our people to do their bit, both at work and at home, to help save the planet. “Cutting carbon emissions is a growing issue which is on everyone’s agenda, particularly during the current economic slowdown as saving energy will ultimately save costs. “Companies are under a lot of pressure now to demonstrate their corporate social responsibility to shareholders and we are able to help businesses make their refurbishment and fit out projects much more sustainable.”
TOP TEN TIPS GROUNDWORK MERSEYSIDE OFFERS THE FOLLOWING 10 TIPS TO HELP YOU DRIVE MORE EFFICIENTLY ... 1. Keep your car well serviced and check the oil level regularly. Correctly maintained cars can operate more efficiently and help reduce CO2 emissions. 2. Check your tyre pressure every month. Under-inflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by up to 4%. 3. Remove unnecessary weight from your boot or back seats. The heavier the car, the harder the engine has to work and the more fuel it consumes. 4. Close your windows, especially at higher speeds, and remove empty roof racks. This will reduce wind resistance and can lower your fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 10%. 5. Use air conditioning only when necessary. Unnecessary use increases fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 5%. 6. Start driving soon after starting the engine and turn off the engine when stationary for more than one minute. Modern engines enable you to just get in and go, thus reducing fuel consumption. 7. Drive at reasonable speeds and above all, drive smoothly. Every time you accelerate or brake suddenly, your engine uses more fuel and produces more CO2. 8. When accelerating, change up gears as early as possible. Higher gears are more economical in terms of fuel consumption 9. Consider car sharing for work or leisure. You will help reduce congestion and fuel consumption. 10. Make a start now by contacting Groundwork Merseyside on 0151 644 4700 for a free energy audit via the Enworks funded business support programme. M A G A Z I N E
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Improve your recycling efficiency B&M Waste Services Ltd, specialise in mobile compaction waste collection services for business organisations. Since entering the market in the year 1999 they have built up an impressive reputation for delivering reliable and efficient waste collection services. It has been their commitment to recycling that has persuaded most of their current clients to switch to them, but it is B&M’s reliability and efficiency that has kept them as loyal customers. They run an extensive fleet of both Trade and Front End Loading (FEL) vehicles from their Manchester and Wirral depots which service the full spectrum of businesses throughout the North West. They have supplemented their general waste collection fleet with dedicated cardboard, paper and glass collection vehicles to ensure that they can satisfy their customer’s diverse
recycling requirements. There is not a business sector they do not provide waste management and recycling services for.
Typical examples of which include: TRADE
Shopping Centres, Hotels, Markets, High Street Retailers, Fast Food, Schools & Colleges COMMERCIAL
Managed Offices, Banks, Solicitors, Local Authority Buildings, Estate agents, PCT’s and Doctors INDUSTRIAL
Hospitals, Printers,General Manufacturing Warehousing, Food Manufactures, Chemical Companies, Support Services
Apart from general waste and recycling services, their customers benefit from a wide range of support services which include providing: ● Hazardous waste registration and collections ● Fully compliant W.E.E.E. regulated ● Bespoke onsite recycling services ● Recycling reports ● Regional and national waste management services ● ISO 9001, ISO 14001 & OHSAS 18001 compliance
In its brief history the company has won numerous accolades including Environmental Business of the Year 2003, 2005 and 2008. Most recently B&M were voted Merseyside’s Medium Business of the Year 2008 at The Daily Post Regional Business Awards. This was for their outstanding service and investment in the environment.
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In the business of doing good ARE COMPANIES TAKING CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY SERIOUSLY? BY TONY MCDONOUGH
CORPORATE Social Responsibility (CSR) has become something of a buzz phrase in the business world in recent years. It is a catch-all term used to describe ethical practices and community involvement in business. The basic idea of CSR is that companies agree to implement a clearly defined set of ethical principles across all aspects of their business. However, does this work in practice? Log onto the websites of most major corporations and you will often find whole sections devoted to outlining CSR policy and yet it is often difficult to spot the CSR influence on critical business decisions. The global financial crisis has put this into sharp focus. All the major banks have extensive CSR policies and yet have come in for severe criticism for excessive risk taking and for paying huge bonuses to executives. Was CSR M A G A Z I N E
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factored in to any of their investment or remuneration strategies? Similarly, the major utility companies all trumpet their CSR credentials, but how do they square that with recent huge rises in gas and electricity for domestic customers? An academic report, published by Ashbridge Business School and the University of Amsterdam, reveals that a study of UK and German executives in the pharmaceutical sector found “managers view CSR initiatives as ancillary to the main game of economic performance”. Sir Jonathon Porritt, chairman of the Government’s Sustainable Development Commission, was even more scathing, describing CSR as “an increasingly empty and illusory notion”. Liverpool-based Erik Bichard is Professor of Regeneration and Sustainable Development at the University of Salford L I V E R P O O L
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and has worked as a sustainable development practitioner in the public, private and now academic sectors. He said: “After the collapse of Enron, which, by the way, had an exemplary CSR programme, we all hoped we would see an end to the myopia where CSR has nothing to do with a company’s core business. Unfortunately, this hasn’t really been the case. “If you look at the big UK banks, they have done some really good stuff on, for example, the diversity of their staff, but then have been totally irresponsible in many of their core activities. “Some talk about their work on climate change and then are quite happy to lend money to mining companies. There is a real disparity between CSR and core activities. “What you have to look at is the reality of the current economic system, which is based on sequential and constant growth and is driven by short term gain for shareholders.” Mr Bichard says the Government has made a big mistake by not forcing companies to declare non-financial risks. However, he added: “There is obviously cause for optimism. With an overheated economy being thrown into reverse, that gives us time to pause for thought and may make companies start to see the error of their ways.” Rachel Komrskova acknowledges the reasons why some people are sceptical about CSR but takes a very pragmatic view. She is the regional manager at the Liverpool office of a national organisation called Business in the Community (BITC). She prefers the term “responsible business” to CSR and works with companies, big and small, helping them to do their bit for the greater good. BITC aims to “inspire, engage, support and challenge” companies on responsible business practices, working through four areas − community, environment, marketplace and workplace. “I think, if people get involved and do something good, then that has to be a good thing,” said Ms Komrskova. “It is always better than doing nothing at all. 70 M A G A Z I N E
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“Sometimes, when companies look at responsible business for the first time, they think it is just about doing ‘fluffy things’ but there is much more to it than that.” She says volunteering and community engagement can have a real impact, not just externally, but on the business itself. BITC’s Rising Stars programme is aimed at junior managers within an organisation and encourages them to get involved in specific community projects. Work undertaken allows the participants to test and develop their own skills. “If volunteering is strategically incorporated into internal HR policies, it can be a very cost effective and successful tool,” Ms Komrskova added. In November, BITC organised National Pro-Bono week during which firms were encouraged to think about giving more of their time and resources to help those less fortunate. Workshops and advice surgeries were held in 13 towns and cities, including Liverpool. BITC in Liverpool gave particular focus to its work through the Step Clever programme, which enables people across north Liverpool and south Sefton to set up their own business or help to grow an existing one. The project aims to create 500 new businesses and 1,500 new jobs in the targeted areas. Liverpool law firm Weightmans, a member of BITC, encourages all of its 800 employees to take part in probono activities. Partner Peter Foreshaw said: “Probono in its widest form covers the use of skills to assist those who don’t have them and cannot afford them so our pro-bono policy also includes Business Action on Homelessness and work placements for the unemployed. “All our employees are given two extra paid leave days a year to participate in corporate social responsibility projects and our managing partner, David Lewis, has agreed to offer mentoring to a social enterprise.”
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Above: Erik Bichard, Professor of Regeneration and Sustainable Development at the University of Salford Below: Rachel Komrskova, Regional Manager of the Liverpool branch of Business in the Community
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Alliance & Leicester volunteers help refurbish the Kensington Fields Community Centre
Forging a healthy Alliance CSR BENEFITS CUT BOTH WAYS SAYS BANKING GIANT BUSINESS in the Community (BITC) counts a number of prominent Merseyside businesses among its members. Included in this list is banking group Alliance & Leicester (A&L), now owned by Spanish giant Banco Santander. A&L employs more than 2,000 people across Merseyside, the majority of whom work in the commercial banking division at the former Girobank headquarters in Bootle. It has an extensive corporate social responsibility programme that encompasses straightforward charity fundraising, one-off community projects and ongoing relationships with external organisations. Abi Veasey is the Bootle-based CSR assistant manager for A&L. She says its CSR efforts benefit both the community and the company’s own staff. “We are really passionate about our CSR agenda and it is about so much more than just ‘giving something back’,” she said. “One of the things we do with BITC is team challenges where people get to manage
a specific community project. “We get to help community groups but it also helps our staff develop their own project management skills. It’s better than paying consultants or sending them on courses.” A&L has also developed a link with Savio High School in Bootle. In the summer, managers visited the school and held an event that gave pupils the opportunity to gain work experience with the company. Ms Veasey added: “Pupils had to make a presentation saying why they should be given the chance to work for Alliance & Leicester. “As a result, six kids came to work for us for a few weeks, and that worked out brilliantly because it gave them a chance to see what life was like in the workplace and it gave us the opportunity to look at them too.” Each year, A&L selects a charity and sets a fundraising target. This year, it was the turn of Zoe’s Place baby hospice in West Derby. “We are really pleased with how that has gone because our target was £50,000 and we have already raised more than £72,000,” said Ms Veasey. M A G A Z I N E
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EDUCATION
Beverly Metcalfe
Mastering the changing climate LIVERPOOL HOPE LAUNCHES THREE NEW COURSES FOR THE EXECUTIVES OF THE FUTURE BY TONY MCDONOUGH Liverpool Hope University’s Business and Computer Sciences Deanery has launched three new Masters Degree programmes in response to what they call “changing business climates”. The courses are in business and management, marketing science, and human resource management and development. They will start in September 2009 and are designed to equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in the ever increasingly competitive business environment. The MSc in Business and Management is a progression of the previous MA course and is designed to offer career development opportunities to both new graduates and junior managers. The programme will link the academic study of business and management with the complex and uncertain business climate that faces today’s managers. The MSc in Human Resource Management and Development and the MSc in Marketing Science are both entirely new programmes, which have been developed following feedback from current marketing students and as a result of the growing subject areas within human resource management, particularly on a global stage. Professor Beverly Metcalfe, Professor of International Management and Development at Liverpool Hope University, said: “The programmes build on current research expertise and success in recruiting international students, as well as underpin the University’s ethos and values and support principles of equality, social justice and community development. “The Human Resource Management and Development 72 M A G A Z I N E
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programme in particular provides a more global perspective of HRM, examining the significance of human capacity and workforce planning and development at the national level. “The faculty is very committed to this new programme development as it will contribute significantly to the vibrant post-graduate taught research culture at Liverpool Hope University.” Marketing science will provide students with a more strategic approach to understanding market research, demonstrating how it can be used to underpin all other marketing tools. The course fosters critical thinking about marketing and qualitative and quantitative marketing research, along with associated business and management issues, to enhance marketing problem solving skills as well as providing the key specialist skills required to succeed in marketing management roles. The MSc in Human Resource Management and Development is a course which focuses on HR within an international development context, as well as developing individual HR skills. Students will be given a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of human resource management and development, and will engage in an analysis of best practices and their application to globalisation and international development processes. All three courses are accepting applications from prospective students for September 2009. For further information contact the Business and Computer Sciences Deanery at Liverpool Hope University on 0151 291 3832 or e-mail: ask-bacs@hope.ac.uk. P O S T
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Maggie O’Carroll
Getting a step-up Some of Liverpool’s more deprived areas suffer from very low business start-up rates and this is particularly true in the north Liverpool and south Sefton districts. Business density is only 75% of Liverpool’s, 69% of Sefton’s and less than half of the UK’s. Business start-up rates are less than three quarters of Liverpool’s rate and only half that for the UK. Self-employment rates lag behind those for Liverpool − UK figures are nearly twice as high. Rates for women are extremely low: 1% compared with around 2.4% nationally. Training and support is seen as one of the key factors in turning this situation. The Government-funded StepClever programme aims to address this. StepClever is receiving £30m over a three-year period through the Local Enterprise Growth Initiative and has been tasked with improving business start-up rates in these areas. It has appointed women’s enterprise organisation Train 2000 to work with women in north Liverpool and south Sefton and help to encourage entrepreneurship among the female population.
It will offer training, business advice and support, grants and other financial assistance, as well as any other support that could be needed by new or existing businesses. Maggie O’Carroll, chief executive of Train 2000, said: “Train 2000 has already helped thousands of women to reach their full potential by offering business help and advice, and we are looking forward to reaching even more women through StepClever’s excellent programme.” Michelle Wyatt and her partner Emma Jones secured a grant of almost £3,000 by StepClever for their Waltonbased business Village Accountancy Services after their Train 2000 business advisor suggested they apply for funding. “Emma and I had just started up and didn’t want to take out a big loan in case we couldn’t pay it back,” said Wyatt, from Aintree. “We were already receiving help and advice from Train 2000, when they told us about StepClever. “We had to create a basic plan which our advisor helped us quite a lot with. Eventually StepClever gave us a grant of £2,971.”
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WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Give your personal finances a new year makeover to survive the credit crunch WITH even the chancellor Alistair Darling admitting we all face a “short sharp recession” during 2009, there’s never been a more important time to give your personal finances a New Year shakedown. The message from chartered independent financial planners Fraser Wealth Management is “have the best possible Christmas you can... but prepare to tighten your belts in January.” Paul Bocking, director of the Liverpool based firm, said: “The New Year is traditionally a time when people take stock and make changes. It’s a very appropriate time to undertake a review of your personal finances - and never more so than now. “Just as businesses are having to look very closely at their expenditure and make savings where they can, it’s vital for individuals to look at their own personal spending and make a plan for the next 12 months. “First and foremost it’s important to know what your annual capital expenditure is – people are generally quite good at recognising their regular monthly outgoings like the mortgage, utility bills, etc, but they often forget to allow for
other expenditure throughout the year, such as servicing the car, paying for a holiday, essential repairs for the home, even birthday presents for family and friends. They all add up and need to be accounted for.” According to Fraser, the best way to estimate your capital expenditure for the next 12 months is to go back over all your bank and credit card statements for the last year and look at what you REALLY spent – then work out what’s essential. Paul’s co-director Kevin Gillibrand adds: “Just as it is in business, life is all about cash flow. The people who’ll survive the credit crunch best are those who plan an annual budget, make sure their expenditure is within their income and also build up a cash reserve to cope with the unexpected. They also need to keep a close eye on any investments to make sure they are growing at the rate expected.” For those who need some professional help with their financial planning, Fraser Wealth Management offers expert advice on a wide range of subjects, with particular emphasis on retirement, investment and inheritance tax planning. Arrange a one-hour consultation by calling 0845 456 4404 or go to www.fraserwm.co.uk.
Seasons Greetings from the team at Fraser Wealth Management – but prepare to tighten your belts in 2009! 74 M A G A Z I N E
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74 Fraser Wealth Manage
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SPONSORED BY
WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Currency Conundrum
HOW TO COPE WITH THE FALLING VALUE OF THE POUND FOR most of 2008, the pound was strong. More recent signs of a weakening currency create their own challenges and opportunities for those with overseas travel or assets to think about. For those who have any money left, it will soon be the traditional time of year to start booking next year’s summer holidays. But in these straitened times, there are a number of issues would-be travellers need to take into account.
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WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Last summer, for example, the biggest headache for those heading to Florida was squeezing the best-value package from travel operators. But now, as the pound sinks against the dollar, the big worry could soon be finding enough spare cash for the Sunshine State. Turmoil on currency markets could turn trips in dollar territory − currencies in South America, the Caribbean and Africa are also dollar-linked − into complex financial calculations. Suddenly, both the yen and the dollar are in demand, with sterling among the losers. If fears about our debt mountain persist, our foreign travel plans − and other areas of household spending − might need a rethink. This summer, two adults and two children got 14-day Disney Ultimate Tickets to Orlando’s big four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom) and several smaller ones for around £630. The current price is £786. Some tour operators will hold their prices once a deposit has been paid. The good news for holidaymakers is that cash-strapped operators are cutting prices 78 M A G A Z I N E
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to early bookers for summer 2009. Some of the 800,000 Britons with holiday homes abroad might do even better from the mayhem. As currency specialist FC Exchange, managing director Nick Fullerton says: “A Eurozone home sold at a200,000 would give its British owner in the region of £157,500 − about £22,000 up on the value of a year ago. “With the Euro strong and sterling taking a battering, and no improvement likely in the foreseeable future, investors may be better off taking advantage of currency rates, selling a Eurozone home to bring money back to the UK.” Don’t do anything as drastic as that, says Stuart Law, chief executive of property investment company Assetz. He says savvy homeowners in France − and possibly Spain and Portugal too, if they own plenty of equity in their home − can raise loans on homes abroad to settle debts in Britain, with Euro mortgage rates below those in Britain. “In France, until the last couple of years, there hasn’t been much scope to raise money against property, and many British owners
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paid cash some years ago,” Law says. “At 1.24 euros to the pound, it may be efficient to use a Euro-mortgage in France − typically a repayment loan over 10-15 years − to raise funds against the credit crunch in the UK, or possibly to help children buy their first home.” Meanwhile, Britons fleeing the UK for good − nearly 2m have left since 1997 − are using forward contracts to reserve weaker currencies, notably Australian and New Zealand dollars and South African rands, at a rate linked to the current one for up to two years, by paying a 10% deposit. When the rand plunged 20% in a week in mid-October, Britons moving money to South Africa must have been tempted to lock onto the lower rate for up to two years ahead. “What makes the present situation exceptional,” says Fullerton, “is that major currencies are fluctuating more wildly. “If you are moving £300,000 to Australia, the rate can move 20% in 24 hours − that’s £60,000 up or down on the day before. It’s huge stuff, and possibly why we have had the busiest trading month ever.” M A G A Z I N E
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ECONOMIC REVIEW
Only way is up for Knowsley BOROUGH HAS LONG-TERM PLAN TO REVERSE HISTORIC POSITION
The proposed new stadium for Everton FC in Kirkby
IN a list of 407 localities measuring business competitiveness, Knowsley was ranked 402nd. The 2008 UK Competitiveness Index made grim reading. Not only was it comfortably the worstperforming in the Liverpool city region, the report’s authors, the University of Wales Institute, judged it to have become less competitive in the past two years. Its overall score had slipped from 77.1 to 76.5, with the UK base score set at 100. The details behind the score don’t make easy reading. Business density in the borough, measured in 2006, was 16 per 1,000 people, compared with 23.7 in the Liverpool city region and an average of 40 in England as a whole. Business 80 M A G A Z I N E
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start-up rates were just 1.4 per 1,000 inhabitants, one of the lowest in the country. Government figures released in October showed that Knowsley is in the bottom 10 authorities for the proportion of the working age population claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance. Its claimant rate of 4.7% is nearly double the UK average. And only 13.5% of people of working age have a qualification equivalent to NVQ level 4 or higher (such as a BTEC Higher National Certificate or Higher National Diploma), the lowest in the city region and less than half the national average. There are, however, reasons to be optimistic. The increase in VAT-registered stock
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between 1997 and 2006 was 31.5% – nearly twice the national average – from 1,490 companies to 1,960. And Knowsley’s sustainable community strategy, published earlier this year, sets out a long-term strategy to improve the borough’s economic and educational indicators, as well as social, health and environmental conditions. It has given itself 15 years to achieve its vision which includes key strategic drivers of raising attainment and skills, and a diverse and properous economy. It wants to narrow the gap in deprivation levels and have high quality employment areas. Tony Caldeira, managing director of home textile firm Caldeira, is one businessman who is happy about his
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Television retailer QVC is located in Knowsley Industrial Park company being based in the borough. He moved his company to Knowsley Business Park in 2003. Today it employs more than 60 people there, and has also expanded into China and the USA. He said: “The location of the business park is really good, on the junction of the M57 and the East Lancs, for transport and distribution, and the site itself is good.” In May, the company bought 14 Fabric Warehouse stores after the retailer had gone into administration and he decided to also relocate the headquarters in Knowsley. “Caldeira has grown quite a lot in the last few years,” he said. “We had plenty of good applicants when we were looking for new staff after we took the retail business on.” “Knowsley is a good place to do business.” There are plenty of other businesses which agree, with more than 2,000 operating in the borough of Knowsley, which stretches from Kirkby in the north, through Huyton, Prescot and Whiston, and down to Halewood and Cronton.
It is particularly strong in the automotive and call centre sectors. Jaguar Land Rover employs 2,000 people in Halewood, while there is a significant support industry that has developed around the plant. There are a number of call centres in the borough including Vertex in Prescot, QVC in Knowsley Industrial Park and Barclaycard in Kirkby. Knowsley also claims a share of Merseyside’s £1bn tourism economy, with the annual 1m visitors estimated to contribute £75m to its economy. The borough’s focal point is Knowsley Safari Park and the Knowsley Hall estate, which attracts more than 450,000 visitors each year. There is also the planned redevelopment of Kirkby town centre around a new stadium for Everton FC. Subject to the results of a public inquiry, the £400m Destination Kirkby project could see a 50,000-seat stadium, up to 50 retail outlets, a Tesco Extra supermarket, plus hotel and leisure facilities be built. Everton hopes the revenues that a new stadium will bring can propel it up the table. Knowsley is hoping for the same. M A G A Z I N E
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ASK THE EXPERT
SPONSORED BY
How to make networking work for you YOU SCRATCH MY BACK... Don’t hesitate to introduce others to each other when appropriate. It may not have any immediate advantage to you, but people remember these things, and will return the favour at a later date.
Frank McKenna Chairman Downtown Liverpool in Business
Q: I go to loads of networking events but never seem to get much business from them. How can I improve my networking skills? A: ATTEND THE RIGHT THINGS One of the most precious commodities we have in business is time. So, make sure that every event you attend is relevant to you and your business. There is a big networking industry out there now, so there is no shortage of events to attend. However, choose quality over quantity, and select networking groups that will include members that you have a genuine chance of doing business with. BE CONFIDENT Nobody likes going to a new place on their own, and often people go to networking events with a group of friends. This helps you feel more comfortable in a different environment, but the danger is you spend all your time catching up with your mates, rather than ‘working the room’. If you can, attend an event or two on your own, or alternatively, make a conscious decision that for at least half
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an hour you are going to leave your herd and circulate. Remember, everyone in the room is there for the same reason, and they will welcome an approach from you. It is also easier for people to approach you if you are not in a ‘group huddle’ with colleagues. RESEARCH PEOPLE YOU’LL BE MEETING If you can, find out who else will be attending the event, and do some research on their business so that you can engage with them more effectively. This will also give you an idea of whom you should be targeting to meet at the event. Don’t hesitate to ask the event organisers to point out people you want to talk to, or even to facilitate the introduction. That is what they are there for. REMEMBER WHY YOU’RE THERE The complimentary food and drink may be appealing, but focus on business. Remember names, collect and give out business cards. Talk briefly, but effectively, and don’t bore people. The latest gadget that has just made your firm 10% more productive may be fascinating to you, but it will have others yawning and looking out for the next vol-au-vent!
The LDP Business Club is completely free to join and members can take advantage of the following exclusive benefits: • Daily ‘e’ newsletters with all the latest business news from The Liverpool Daily Post • A monthly ‘e’ edition of our business magazine delivered directly to your mail box T H E
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LOOK THE PART Dress to impress. That doesn’t necessarily mean wearing a suit, but Bermuda shorts and sandals won’t cut it either. First impressions do count, so present yourself in a professional manner. FOLLOWING UP Always follow up the contacts you make, the business cards you have collected and the people you have met, and do it quickly, while it’s fresh in your mind and with the other person. It is pointless collecting a dozen business cards and then simply filing them away. It takes seconds to make a quick phone call or drop your new contact an email. ENJOY IT If you don’t, it will come across to others, and you will be unable to project the positive image you want. If you’re not having a good time, you’re going to the wrong events, so, as I said at the start, look around the networking ‘market’ and find out what’s right for you. Frank McKenna, DLIB Tel: 0151 227 1633
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Waste audit helps cut business costs Neil Curtis, one of the Directors of B&M Waste
Q : In these difficult times is it worth looking at our company’s waste management solutions to see if we can improve our bottom line performance and the environmental impact of our business? A: Absolutely. All companies produce waste in many different forms, which can be dealt with in many different ways. By analysing each waste stream and optimising the way it is handled, increasing efficiency and reducing costs, you can make significant savings across your company. B&M offers a waste management audit for businesses, which takes both a general overview and a highly specific look at your company’s output. We can even appoint a dedicated waste manager to work within your company on a regular basis to implement the audit recommendations. A waste management audit will identify the kinds of waste your company produces and the most cost efficient ways to deal with it. For
example, if your company produces a lot of waste that can be recycled, onsite segregation will make it easier for contractors to collect and reduce the costs of collection. It could even improve the revenue you receive for your recyclable materials. While it is tempting to cut corners with waste, especially during difficult times, you should bear in mind that the cost of a substantial fine if you are caught will always outweigh any savings you might make. Your audit will identify ways to reduce the cost of dealing with hazardous waste and waste electrical and electronic equipment, while fully complying with the most recent legislation. Of course, the most effective way to cut your waste costs is to avoid creating waste in the first place. By looking at your processes across the company, you can identify ways in which you can work more efficiently with raw materials. Even small changes, like printing on both sides of the paper and refilling ink cartridges, can make a big difference to the volume of waste you create. Finding ways to reuse your waste products is
Waste Services another important way to cut waste management costs. As with so many business requirements, finding an integrated solution from a single supplier will help cut administration costs at both ends and increase the efficiency of the service you receive. B&M have the skills, equipment and capacity to provide a complete waste management solution, whatever the size or nature of your business. Effective waste management can help cut the costs of running your business, especially during difficult times. But it’s not just about saving money for your company; we all have a role and a responsibility to save the environment too by cutting our waste and increasing our recycling wherever possible. Get the balance right and it’s a win/win situation. B&M Waste Services, Iris House, Dock Road South, Bromborough, Wirral, CH62 4SQ tel: 0151 346 2900. Email: info@bagnallandmorris.com Website: www.bagnallandmorris.com
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• Priority (pre sale) and discounted invitations to high profile events • Exclusive LDP Business club events held throughout the year including key guest speakers • Exclusive access to ‘member only’ news stories and articles • Discounted advertisement rates across the whole of the LDP portfolio and related products To become a member, log on to www.ldpbusiness.co.uk
Is the place to find extensive and up-to-the-minute coverage of local, regional, national and international business news and the financial markets. There will also be audio and video content featuring news and views from Merseyside’s key business movers and shakers. It contains a wide range of useful links, archive material plus a special section for members of the free LDP Business Club. Log on today and check out www.ldpbusiness.co.uk. M A G A Z I N E
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Business link northwest: manufactured for success THE North West is the second largest region in the UK for the manufacture of vehicles and vehicle components. With the Halewood plant in Merseyside producing the Jaguar XType and the Land Rover Freelander 2, it clearly places Merseyside on the manufacturing map and shows the dominant force it has within the North West. Industries like the automotive sector are fighting the effects of the current credit crunch and are working with companies including Business Link Northwest in an attempt to not only survive but thrive in these challenging times. Business Link Northwest, the information, advice and support service for businesses, has rounded up its best online resources for helping businesses beat the credit crunch at to make support and advice quick and easy to access. Recognising the importance of the sector to the economy, Business Link Northwest has a dedicated team that is geared
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up to offer one-to-one support to Engineering businesses – providing advice on a wide range of issues from skills and business growth, to finance and marketing. Brian Richardson, Advanced Engineering Sector Manager comments: “With the current economic challenges, businesses will be thinking about finances and how the credit crunch might impact on them directly. “Our Advanced Engineering team is equipped with industry knowledge and experience and is available to meet face to face to help identify and tackle any problems early on. Businesses can feel reassured help is available and we urge all businesses to make use of this free and impartial service.”
Businesses can access Business Link Northwest by calling 0845 00 66 888 or visiting
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CREATIVE
Nik Powell, right, director of the National Film and Television School, pictured with St Helens-born Harry Potter film director, David Yates
Centre of the creative universe BY ALISTAIR HOUGHTON LIVERPOOL has long been known as a creative city – now it is hosting a national conference to discuss how cities can grow their creative economies. The Foundation for Art and Creative Technology (FACT), in Wood Street, will welcome the National Creative Industries Conference this Thursday. Speakers are set to include Barbara Follett, Minister for Culture, Creative Industries and Tourism, and Nik Powell, co-founder of Virgin Records and chief executive of the National Film and Television School. But there will also be many speakers with a local connection, including Dr Beatriz Garcia, whose Impacts 08 project is evaluating the long-term impact of Liverpool’s Capital of Culture status. Topics up for debate include how cities benefit from celebrations such as Capital of Culture and major sporting events. Delegates will also discuss how cities can support small and start-up creative businesses, and how the Government and local authorities can help the creative sector grow. Claire Walker, freelance sector development manager at support agency Merseyside ACME, said the conference gives Liverpool another chance to tell a national audience about its successes in 2008 and its plans for the future.
She said: “It’s important for the message from Liverpool to be, ‘there’s still going to be a lot happening after 2008.’ “From a sector perspective, people are starting to feel they’re getting the credit they’re due. There’s been a lot of good creative work going on in the city for a long time now and finally people are starting to get that recognition. There are businesses here with national and international clients.” The event will be chaired by Josephine Burns, director of London creative consultancy, BOP Consulting. She said the event gives creative firms the chance to talk to local and national government figures about what public support can be given to help the creative sector thrive. “We used to look at the world as having capitalists on one side and then public services on the other − beyond the pale, completely different,” she said. “Today, we have a much more sophisticated understanding of how things work. “Liverpool is a good example of how bringing together private enterprise and public sector initiatives can really make things happen.”
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THE EVENT
COMPILED BY CAROLYN
HUGHES
JEWELLER CELEBRATES IN SUMPTUOUS SURROUNDINGS THE sumptuous surroundings of the Chester Grosvenor Hotel were the setting for David M Robinson fine jewellers’ ‘Winter Wonderland’ dinner. More than 80 clients and staff enjoyed the champagne reception while browsing showcases packed full of new collections of fine diamond jewellery and watches. Currently in its 40th year, David M Robinson held the dinner to thank its customers for their continued support and showcase some fabulous new pieces.
Stephanie Cheers, Sharon Hynes and Linda Price
Clare Holland and Gary Holland (Holland Broadbridge Estate Agents)
Paula Seamark, Suzanne Robinson (David M Robinson) and Jane Foulkes
Victoria Sharpe (musician/singer), Suzanne Robinson (David M Robinson)
BUSINESS COMMUNITY GATHERS FOR LIVERCOOL AWARDS More than 380 Downtown Liverpool in Business (DLIB) members and guests celebrated the success and achievements of the city’s business community at this years Livercool awards held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Hailed as the best Downtown event to date, Livercool rewards those individuals who have excelled in 2008. The evening was hosted by former Radio City presenter Kev Seed, who was back on top form with his irreverent humour and slick repartee. Among the list of winners were Conor O’Donovan, of A2Z Rooms, who was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Richard Mathias of law firm DWF who was named Professional of the Year.
NWDA chief executive Steve Broomhead with Frank McKenna and Derek Hatton
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Kev Seed with Sue Sherman (Ampersand) and Rob Preston (Alma De Cuba)
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LIVERPOOL SALON TRANSFORMED INTO CLUB Liverpool’s number one destination salon, Andrew Collinge Hairdressing at 45 Castle Street, was be transformed into an über cool club for just one night. The team have enjoyed a phenomenal time, in this, the city’s European Capital of Culture year. There have been a number of key highlights this year which have included the salon receiving the Salon of the Year award from HAIR Magazine. In addition to a top award, the salon has been involved with some unmissable events in the city which have included the annual fashion show from top designer store Cricket, together with a recent fashion show held by Microzine, the hippest place in town for men’s clothing.
MAYOR HELPS LAUNCH NEW DEVELOPMENT The Mayor of Wirral, Cllr Adrian Jones, and Conservative parliamentary hopeful, Esther McVey enjoyed champagne and canapes at the opening of a brand new office development, Lake House, in Hoylake. The development has been completed by Business Point. The business centre provides office space for small business in a managed centre, providing reception and meeting rooms. Karl McKinney (Business Point), Esther McVey, Cllr Adrian Jones, Geoff Guest (Business Point) and Steve Roberts (Business Point)
Andrew and Liz Collinge
Neil McKinney, builder of Lake House and Mario Bario, lecturer Justine Mills (centre) with the girls from Cricket
RED CROSS HAILS BALL A SUCCESS The British Red Cross has hailed its Red Cross Ball held at Thornton Hall Hotel & Spa a great success. The event was a sellout with more than 220 treated to a fantastic menu, especially designed for the Red Cross Ball by Thornton Hall’s executive head chef Brian Heron, with Pete Price providing the entertainment.
Janine Stewart, Tina Cranston and Natalia Cranston
The Liverpool Samba School kicked off the dancing for the evening to live band, One Way, who had everyone on their feet and enjoying the event. Senior fundraiser Alexis Fairclough said: “The inaugural Red Cross Ball at Thornton Hall Hotel and Spa was a resounding success and from the event over £23,000 has been raised for British Red Cross.”
Heather Caley (House of Hilbre) and Ina Schmidt (marketing manager Thornton Hall Hotel & Spa) M A G A Z I N E
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Rob Farnham (BFL/Venmore), Dave Hinds, Paul Lea (BFL/Venmore) and Pat Cobham (Cobham Day)
Andrew Hodson, Kathy Hodson with Penny and John Robinson
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THE
NETWORKER SPONSORED BY
Who can wave the flag for the North West? BARRY TURNBULL WONDERS WHO IS ICONIC ENOUGH TO BE THE REGION’S AMBASSADOR
HERE'S an old joke about how certain people love freebies so much they would go to the opening of an envelope. Haven't quite managed that myself, but I did get to the opening of a car park, which was a bit more interesting than it might sound. The food, courtesy of a Thai restaurant, was exquisite and there were lots of novelty attractions such as a mermaid. It was subdued lighting to say the least and in the gloom I bumped into Steve Broomhead, the ubiquitous chief executive of the Northwest Development Agency. This is a person who has to steer a very straight course politically and it would be dynamite to even suggest he favoured one part of the region over another. But is there anyone who can bridge the cultural and tribal divide and be a figurehad for the region as a whole? There have been some amusing examples. Remember when The Mersey Partnership decided it was a good idea to make Coronation Street's Elizabeth Goodyear (Bet Lynch) an ambassador for Liverpool? Bizarre. More recently, Huyton-born footballer Joey Barton emerged from a spell inside clink proclaiming he wanted to become a role model for kids. Some task that one.
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However, I do have an idea. How about using a sporting figure as an ambassador for the North West? In business terms, the region is supposed to be on the same side, literally the same team. Who better to be an ambassador than Croxteth’s finest? Surely Wayne Rooney is the most outstanding example of someone who has bridged the tribal divide between Merseyside and Manchester. On reflection though, many will say he has not just bridged the gap, but too whole-heartedly stepped off on other side of it with his provocative badge kissing episode a few weeks back. Nevertheless, it's remarkable to think a dyed-in-thewool scouser is a hero to many Mancunians. Using Rooney as a champion for the North West would surely put the region on the world stage. Other likely candidates would be Amir Khan, Freddie Flintoff and Chris Boardman. Imagine a trade mission to India timed to coincide with a visit by the England cricket team and a reception to include Flintoff? A surefire winner if you ask me. Now that December is here, the Christmas party season is in full swing. The question this year is will the credit crunch lead to some festive tight-beltening? Let’s hope not. I’ll drink to that! P O S T
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Downtown Liverpool in Business
THE BUSINESS CLUB WITH ATTITUDE 0151 227 1633 WWW.DOWNTOWNLIVERPOOL.COM
WORK HARD PLAY HARD
Shot on location at The Living Room
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THE NETWORKER THE LIST - DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Bush on 0151 227 1234 or e-mail events@liverpoolchamber.org.uk. The fourth National Creative Industries Conference is taking place at Foundation for Arts and Creative Technology (FACT).
Marriott Hotel
Tuesday, December 9 Thursday, December 11 The 40th annual meeting of the British Medical Ultrasound Society is being held at the BT Convention Centre. The conference has a strong scientific programme as well as an emphasis on hands-on workshops and integrated training sessions, which will combine small group seminars with practical training. Tuesday, December 9 Business support agency Blue Orchid is holding a one-day workshop on completing your self assessment forms. The free event, from 10am-4pm, is at the Cotton Exchange, Old Hall Street, Liverpool. To book, call 0845 0170 896 or e-mail d.allman@theblueorchid.co.uk. Liverpool Chamber of Commerce is hosting a free half-day workshop to assist businesses in the wards of Anfield, Everton, County, Kirkdale, Linacre and Derby to improve their marketing and presentation techniques. To book, call June Davies on 0151 224 1891 or e-mail june.davies@liverpoolchamber. org.uk A skills roadshow for Liverpool’s creatives is being held at the 90 M A G A Z I N E
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Contemporary Urban Centre. People looking to get into the digital and media industries are invited to a drop in session from 2pm–5pm, and digital and media businesses and their employees are invited to an evening Q+A and networking session from 6pm - 8pm. To reserve a free place, contact johannaha@visionandmedia.co.uk
Monday, December 15 The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales is bringing a roadshow to Everton FC, from 2pm-5pm. Its audit and assurance faculty will be looking at common problems with audit files and their solutions. For more information, e-mail tracy.gray@icaew.com
Wednesday, January 21 Liverpool Chamber of Commerce is hosting an introduction to the appointment of overseas agents and distributors. The seminar looks at different methods of market entry strategy and techniques to find, appoint and motivate agents and distributors. For more information, contact Sue Platt or Melissa Bush on 0151 227 1234 or e-mail events@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Tuesday, January 20 A CPD seminar on market research for exporters is being held by the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce. The full-day seminar will cover the principles, methods and value of research, and also explore the use of the internet as a research tool and the basics of field/desk
Thursday, January 29 South Liverpool Business Network’s bi-monthly breakfast meeting is being held at the Partnership for Learning, Speke from 8am. The guest speaker is BBC Radio Merseyside’s Roger Phillips. For more information, visit www.slbn.co.uk.
Wednesday, December 10 LJMU’s Start-Up Entrepreneurs Network is hosting a networking event for graduates and alumni who are based in Merseyside. It is in its new business lounge in Hatton Gardens and will feature Alex Frech from Liverpool design agency Black & Ginger. He will talk about the importance of branding for start-up businesses. For more details contact Dominique Aspey at d.aspey@ljmu.ac.uk or on 0151 231 8062. Thursday, December 11 Liverpool Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas Platform Lunch will be held at the Liverpool city centre Marriott Hotel, Queens Square, from 12.15pm-2.30pm. The guest speaker is professional entertainer Lennie Anderson abd it costs £25 members / £30 non-members. To book, contact Sue Platt or Melissa
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research. For more information, contact Sue Platt or Melissa Bush on 0151 227 1234 or e-mail events@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
D A I L Y
FEATURED EVENT
Southport Floral Hall
Friday, February 6 Sefton Chamber of Commerce is holding its seventh Prestige Ball and business awards at Southport Floral Hall. It is a hugely popular event with more than 200 tickets sold three months before the event. Its awards categories include the best small business, new technology, training and education. This year, two nomination awards have also been added: the top Sefton supplier award, which recognises excellent service and product supply from a Sefton company, and the top Sefton networker award, which will highlight an individual’s contribution to business support and generating referrals and leads for other businesses. For more information, call Sefton Chamber of Commerce on 01704 531710. P O S T
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CORPORATE ENTERTAINMENT
And they’re off. Or are they?
SPONSORED BY
BARRY TURNBULL IS A DAY AT THE RACES UNDER THREAT FROM THE FINANCIAL CRISIS? A DAY at the races is a traditional way for businesses to entertain customers. At Aintree’s first meeting of the jump season at the end of October, the buzz of chatter and clinking glasses in the hospitality suites seemed to suggest it was “business as usual”. But the litmus test will be the Grand National meeting next April, when it will become much clearer to what degree entertainment budgets have been adjusted to cope with leaner times. Corporate hospitality spending has actually risen 25% since 2003, but, like everything else at the moment, it's now falling. One man with his finger on the pulse is David Brown, who runs the Redsquirrelevents agency in Formby. He said: “This year has seen a slowdown in business and people are being more cautious. In terms of Aintree, I am seeing businesses maybe looking at a cheaper day rather than the Grand National itself or a more value for money package. “I have heard of some businesses
who have usually committed by now have instead pulled out. I think sales will be slower than usual but maybe pick up in February and March.” Emma Owen, in Aintree's marketing department, said: “Demand for hospitality at the 2009 John Smith's Grand National remains strong. As you would expect in the current economic climate, we have experienced cancellations from some corporates who would not feel it appropriate to entertain at this time. However, we have gained some new customers in this process. “Hospitality for both our October and November meetings has been very strong, in some instances ahead of last year. We feel we offer very good value, attracting both corporates and social diners.” Chester Racecourse has experienced its best ever year with new facilities and a trackside restaurant now open. Its niche status may protect against general economic woes. Managing director Richard Thomas said: “We M A G A Z I N E
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haven't really started selling for the May meeting yet, which is very popular, and I would expect that to continue. Our attendance figures are up 6% this year and I think that Chester meetings are really seen as something of a social occasion. The fact that we have just the 13 days racing a year means the calendar is not saturated so I would expect sales to hold up. We are also doing very well with conferencing business.” However, elsewhere the picture is not so rosy. Arena Leisure owns a number of tracks such as Lingfield and Windsor, where corporate bookings have suffered from an 11% slump.
Heathcotes says hospitality packages at Liverpool FC have helped push up sales by 70%. The catering and events company runs the Anfield Experience. Sales manager Tom Cassidy said: “It’s becoming a favourite destination for companies wanting to book days out at the club.” L I V E R P O O L
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Business L UNCH
SPONSORED BY
THE RACQUET CLUB BILL GLEESON DINES WITH LIVERPOOL CHAMBER CHIEF EXECUTIVE, JACK STOPFORTH
Thumbs-up on return visit Racquet Club Chapel Street, Liverpool 0151 236 6676 Two starters and main meals plus soft drinks
Total: £49.90
A COLLEAGUE of mine reviewed the Racquet Club in these pages in the summer and gave it a thumbs down. So I thought it would only be fair to give the eaterie, a mainstay in the city’s business district, a second look to see if it had staged a recovery. My guest was Liverpool Chamber of Commerce chief executive Jack Stopforth. He was in fine form when I met him for lunch at the Chapel Street venue. The Racquet Club is conveniently situated close by to the Chamber’s head office, which is just 150-yards up the hill on the junction of Chapel Street and Old Hall Street. The restaurant is located in a very nicely refurbished building that once housed an oldfashioned gentleman’s club. The building, owned by the Ainscough family, also has eight hotel bedrooms. Jack had just been discussing the business lobby group’s half-year accounts. “We are comfortably ahead of expectations,” he said. However he did go on to add that the first
TopTIPPLE
SHAKEN NOT STIRRED...
For a taste of class this Christmas try Errazuriz Kai 2005, a recent winner in the International Wine and Spirit Competition. The premium Chilean vintage was described as 'best in class' by judges who added: “A dark deep ruby colour matched by fully developed, earthy bouquet which has coffee, blackcurrants and a hint of chocolate. The oak is subtle; equally impressive and expressive on the palate which again finds chocolate and voluptuously ripe, sweet dark fruit.”
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quarter of the New Year is expected to be more difficult. “We expect a record turnover of £10m and a modest surplus. “Trading profitably is a pre-requisite these days and we will do that. “We have membership of 1,840, which is continuing to grow. It was 1,350 three years ago.” Jack chose the pan fried king prawns with chestnut mushrooms with lime and chilli sauce. “They were very spicy with lots of chilli. It was very nice,” he said. I selected wild mushroom gratin, garlic croute and baby leaves. I was presented with a plentiful quantity of mushrooms and ordinarily I love them, but the dish was dressed in an indeterminate vegetable based gunge which ruined the effect. As we ate Jack told me how he loved his home in the Lake District, with fantastic views. He made it sound like something straight out of Beatrix Potter. For his main course Jack ate pan fried fillet of sea bass with potatoes, chorizo and broth.
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The trophy-winning Kai is available from Odbbin's at £24.99. Tesco Wines is offering a mixed case of Chateauneufdu-Pape wines for £72 - a saving of £24. The case contains two bottles of the following, all reds. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Deux Rhones, 2006, France, 14.5% a full-bodied vintage with rich aromas of cherry, paprika and nutmeg. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Couversets, 2005, France,
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The dining room at the Racquet Club Jack liked his meal. He said: “It comes with no carbs, just the fish and vegetables. It had a very nice liquor over it.” I guess the chorizo and potato must have had a thin presence. For my main course I selected braised lamb Henry with dauphinoise potatoes, baby carrots, brocoli and red wine jus. I was served with a very chunky joint of braised lamb, which was nicely cooked and the veg was also excellent. Both of us had busy afternoons ahead, so we abstained from alcohol, but I can you that my previous visits to the Racquet Club it has an excellent and reasonably priced wine list. The service, by head waiter Johann and his team, was excellent. The bill came to £45.90, including a couple of coffees.
Lightly curried mackerel with beetroot, horseradish and rocolla salad
why not try... 14.5% is a wine with a tremendous heritage the Quiot family have been making wine on the estate since 1748 and ‘Les Couversets’ is the name of one of the oldest families in Châteauneuf. This sturdy,vintage, fully lives up to its pedigree. Rich and smooth, with dark berry and spicy flavours. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Heritiers Plantin de Montredon, 2001, France, 14% Deep mahogany in colour, reflecting its maturity, this seven year old wine has complex, and wonderfully intense, spicy flavours of prunes, pepper, and liquorice. M A G A Z I N E
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MOTOR REVIEW
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JAGUAR XF 4.2 SV8
Rare sighting gives Jag cult status BARRY TURNBULL ROLLS BACK THE DECADES IN THE CAR OF THE YEAR IN the late 1960’s a rare appearance of a Jaguar in the north east coastal town where I lived caused a bit of commotion. My uncle motored up in the Mark 2 once a year from an exotic, faraway place called London and became an instant celebrity. Kids would crowd around to admire the gleaming spokes and graceful curves, the wooden dashboard and incredibly racy steering wheel. I can still vividly remember the smell of the leather upholstery which lingered like cigar smoke. So, 40 years on, I returned to my old home town behind the wheel of the XF, the latest super sexy sports saloon from Jaguar. And do you know what? The reaction was remarkably similar. Several people engaged me in conversation about the car while children with scuffed knees and grimy necks asked: “Is that your car, mister?” Of course, there was one notable exception: this being modern Britain, some lower echelon-type decided to scratch the paintwork due no doubt to some sort of underclass protest against profligacy. The XF was much hyped following the unveiling of a development car 18 months ago when Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson claimed he would saw his leg off and beat himself over the head with it if the car came off the production line looking like the concept version. I can report he is not hopping around as the design has been subtly softened for public consumption. It has lived up to the billing though and has won a clutch of best car awards. In fact the model provides a direct link from the ultra chic Mark 2 of the sixties to the modern day. In addition it brings back a bit of exclusivity to the brand which has been naturally diluted by the frequently seen X-Type models.
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The exterior is sleek and eye-catching but the interior is equally attractive. Settling into the cabin, the handstitched leather seats, sophisticated instrumentation and blue mood lighting create a sense of luxury. The gear control knob rises out of the centre console on firing up while the air conditioning vents rotate into the open position, giving a futuristic feel. Comfort and luxury abound with other clever tricks like touch screen controls and voice instructions. On the road there is no disguising the power from the supercharged V8 engine drawing 560 units of torque, delivering a brisk 0-60 in 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 155mph. It’s not only brisk, it has the agility expected of a Big Cat and the enhanced suspension and damper control give a smoother ride on corners even at high speed. Transmission is a quickshifting electronic system that can also be accessed via steering wheel mounted paddles. Every range feature an audio system with atleast eight speakers eight speakers, with a premium system designed in association with audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins available on range-topping models. Radio options now include a Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) system, while the XF technology count includes Bluetooth communications, optional iPod and MP3 player connectivity with full-function control through the Touch-screen – and an auxiliary port on every car for other portable audio devices. Other available features include Jaguar voice control, blind spot monitor, front and rear parking aids, cruise control, automatic speed limiter, tyre pressure monitoring system and electronic parking brake. The XF is a leading class cruising saloon with executive sports credentials which give it every chance of eclipsing its German rivals.
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Jaguar XF 4.2 SV8 PRICE: £54,900
COMBINED MPG: 22.4
MECHANICAL: 416bhp, 4,196cc, 8 cylinder petrol engine driving rear wheels via 6 speed automatic gearbox
INSURANCE GROUP: 20
BiK RATING: 35%
MAX SPEED: 155mph
WARRANTY: Three years
0 - 60mph: 5.4secs
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SPONSORED BY
E XECUTIVE T RAVEL BY BARRY TURNBULL
A cultural feast north of the border GLASGOW SHOWS HOW TO CREATE A LEGACY IN THE YEARS AFTER BEING CAPITAL OF CULTURE BY BARRY TURNBULL GLASGOW is one of Europe’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, home to the art nouveau architectural treasures of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, and on the doorstep of Scotland’s scenic countryside. The former ship-building powerhouse has undergone an economic and cultural renaissance in recent years and was Capital of Culture back in 1990, an accolade that is said to have kickstarted its comeback.
Much has been made of the fact that Liverpool could enjoy a similar revival under Capital of Culture. In Glasgow more than £1bn is being invested to transform the riverfront into a stylish business, residential and leisure area, and 2006 saw the worldfamous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum re-opened after a £27.9m renovation. The city attracts 2.8m visitors per annum who generate £700m in
The West End skyline
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business and tourism spending. Glasgow City Marketing Bureau books more than £150m of new conference business a year. One of its most famous landmarks is the convention and exhibition centre on the banks of the Clyde. Jumeirah, the Dubai-based luxury hotel management group renowned for its iconic Burj Al Arab development, announced plans to operate a new 5-star super-deluxe hotel in Glasgow.
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WHERE TO STAY Glasgow has more than 8,000 bedrooms including a range of serviced accommodation across the city. We stayed at the Fraser Suites, located in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City amidst elegant and sophisticated Victorian merchant houses. Merchant City is a vibrant cultural quarter where history resonates with the buzz of modern city living with a unique blend of bars and restaurants, designer retailers, arts venues and cultural and intellectual businesses. Set in an extensively renovated 1850s baronial building designed by JT Rochead, and retaining its stunning Victorian façade, each of the 102 spacious residences – 5 Studio, 29 Deluxe Studio, 27 One Bedroom, 32 Deluxe One Bedroom and 9 Deluxe Two Bedroom – offers stylish and contemporary furnishings with fully equipped kitchenette, entertainment and communication facilities.
WHAT TO DO Glasgow is made up of four distinct quarters from the bustling city centre and hip merchant city to the cool West End and laid-back South Side. Each district has its own unique atmosphere. The University and Kelvingrove
West End Located near the University of Glasgow and the preferred residential area for celebrities, students and young professionals alike, the West End is the city’s ‘Left Bank’. Discover funky boutiques, antique shops, auction rooms and hip cafes and restaurants tucked away in mews lanes or on the main thoroughfares of Byres Road and Great Western Road. City Centre Great shopping, stunning architecture and world-class museums, all laid out in the city’s walkable and easy to navigate city centre. The city’s main thoroughfare Buchanan Street is home to giant high street malls such as the ultra modern Buchanan Galleries and the elegant Princes Square. Just a short stroll from Buchanan Street, visitors will stumble across the cool and contemporary Gallery of Modern Art and the Victorian splendour of the City Chambers and George Square. Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the famous Glasgow architect, designer and artist, is renowned internationally for his innovative and influential style, which helped shape European Art Nouveau. Mackintosh has left his distinctive mark on many buildings across the city including The Glasgow School of Art, the Willow Tearooms and the former Glasgow Herald building, which is now home to The Lighthouse, Scotland’s award-winning centre for architecture, design and the city. The Merchant City area is Glasgow’s ‘cultural quarter’. The former warehouses of the ‘Tobacco Lords’ – the eighteenth century entrepreneurs who built Glasgow’s wealth through the tobacco, sugar and cotton trade – have now been transformed into shops, bars, galleries and loft apartments. Buchanan Street
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Riverside There are a number of exciting projects currently on-stream in Glasgow, which will restore the River Clyde to its rightful place at the very heart of the city’s entrepreneurial and creative energy. The aim is to create a sense of place where people will want to live, work and play. Futuristic structures, such as the Clyde Auditorium and the Glasgow Science Centre, dominate the city skyline, but the magnificent Finnieston Crane and the 110-year-old S.V Glenlee, one of the only Clydebuilt sailing ships still afloat, remain evidence of the city’s industrial past.
www.seeglasgow.com Buchanan Street at night
HOW TO GET THERE By car, it’s three hours up the motorway on a fair day. Q-Park, Europe’s leading car parking company which now has a presence in Liverpool, has a number of facilities in Glasgow including one just a haggis throw from the Fraser Suites in Albion Street. Daily trains run from Liverpool but a change is necessary at either Wigan or Preston. Fares range from £34 advanced standard return to £236 first class. There are no air services from Liverpool, although there are several scheduled flights from Manchester each day from around £100 return.
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NOTWORKER
Yuletide and tested rules for surviving the festive season
LAURA DOYLE’S LIST OF DO’S AND DONT’S FOR THE OFFICE CHRISTMAS DO
FOR a whole year now I have waxed lyrical about the trials and tribulations of going out into the business world alone, hungry and with nothing but sheer determination to survive. Yet there is one event that even I, for all my cunning and misguided bravery, dread with every hair on my head. An occasion that can turn the most seasoned socialite snow white with fear… the office Christmas party. A seemingly innocent time to raise a festive glass or two, it has the power to break even the most promising careers. Vomiting in filing cabinets, photocopying body parts or snogging in the stationery cupboard − I believe if you commit any of those heinous crimes you deserve all you get. But even the most cautious amongst us can still fall prey to the festive faux pas, those almost imperceptible Christmas gaffes that will leave you with egg-nog on your face and your future prospects walking off with the Ghost of Christmas Past. So, as my gift to you I have put together the Corporate Christmas Survival Guide. 1. Feed the world − Letting them know it's Christmas time is a noble deed, just don't forget to tell your clients too! Last year, rather than the usual bottles of whisky, a colleague suggested we buy our clients ethical gifts. One received a communal water pump, another a set of school books, but, for our oldest and most valued client, we bought a herd of goats. His PA, however, failed to read the 98 M A G A Z I N E
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small print and told him we had just sent a card, which, ironically, really got his goat. 2. Relax − Just like diets, business always goes out the window before Christmas. No one is going to make any decisions until the New Year anyway and even Scrooge took a day off. The only cards you should be exchanging at this time of year should have a picture of Rudolf on them. 3. Santa is never secret − Secret Santa was invented as a financially democratic and socially inclusive method of gift giving in the office. Even if you end up with “miseryguts Martin from the 5th floor”, you are duty bound to get a decent present. Christmas is goodwill to all men and that extends to everyone on the payroll. 4. Wear your best pants − if despite my warning you do end drinking too much at the office Christmas party, photocopying your bum and never living it down, at least your mum won't be ashamed of your underwear. If all else fails, January is statistically the most popular month for finding a new job. I wonder why? Merry Christmas!
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