Looking back at

Looking back at Enterprise

- Change Management - To do or die?

History shows us change management can be a matter of life or death for business. Economic Ups and Downs, the Internet, Social Change, Competition, Consumer Demands, Environmental Concerns, Communication, Technology and Rising Costs have demanded and will continue to demand adaptation.

It is also said that in business if you’re standing still, you’re going backwards - Franklin D Roosevelt said there are many ways of going forwards but only one way of standing still.

We have seen the rise of global business organisations built on data management, algorithms and trend influence. A massive transformation in marketing and development of “Brands” around lifestyle choices using hi quality design combined with worldwide communication and media influence - fuelling greater demand for products. Extraordinary developments in computers and software, CGI (computergenerated Imagery) have transformed design capability and the graphics industry.

The Industrial revolution fuelled by innovation was a game changer, made a few people very wealthy but was not sustainable or environmentally friendly. It could be said that we lost our way after the Industrial revolution because of increasing employment costs and workers’ rights and a failure to manage that change - the solution for some was mass production. With rising expectations from workers and a reduction in manufacturing we saw rising unemployment. Take farming as an example, we have seen a massive reduction in workers, being replaced by machinery. The car industry is another example with the development of the production line and robots. With rising current environmental concerns, the use of fossil fuels, de forestation and particularly the use of plastics we are seeing global change management playing out before our eyes and we can see how difficult the process is when economics and politicians are involved. The rise of green industries and the deployment of increasing technology will be fundamental to change management and the future of large areas of industry - perhaps the survival of our planet.

Consumer demands continue lifestyle choices are being made; politicians are making promises, so it is likely that minimum wages will continue to rise and lead to further productivity pressures which may lead to an increase in unemployment. Change management for SME’s has shown to be particularly difficult as it requires investment in time and money – something SME’s have often been slow to make. A developing role exists here for the banking sector to provide more than just finance take a long term approach to lending and business support and a continuing role exists for Chambers of Commerce and others to provide affordable business support, development training and networking.

Fuelled by the need to maintain or even create margins we have seen the development of process and production management which we see taken to the highest level within franchise operations that not only control brand and marketing but the systems that operate in the businesses and such investment has led to huge success with chains that extend around the world.

Historically I see little evidence that enterprise and business feature strongly within schools if at all. Indeed it might appear that education has had a negative effect on enterprise by largely ignoring it. Schools encouraging many to go to University to receive more funding, encouraging students with greater expectation of higher incomes and often ignoring the opportunities of apprenticeships. For schools it might appear enterprise and business are not attractive, however they do seem to acknowledge the role of technology and innovation in society.

Manufacturing companies come together

Manufacturing companies come together to discuss industry opportunities and challenges

Saffery Champness Chartered Accountants, QuoStar, and NatWest Bank held their inaugural Manufacturer’s Forum dinner in Wimborne, Dorset on 4th March.

The dinner was chaired by Dr John Knowles, former Managing Director and Chairman of DEK – now ASM Assembly Systems, a world leading manufacturer of capital equipment for the electronic assembly industry. The evening saw Dorset manufacturing business owners, from a variety of sectors, come together to discuss the issues and challenges facing their respective industries.

Local leaders from industries ranging from precision engineering, to food & drink, to plastic moulding shared their thoughts and experiences in an open forum. Discussions covered a broad range of concerns and issues affecting their companies and the local region, including:

Technological changes affecting the sector around automation and Artificial Intelligence, including when investment is needed and how to ensure that these new innovations actually help improve productivity and margins.

Environmental and sustainability challenges facing businesses, and how these can and should be embraced. This included building energy efficiency in capital projects; the issue of packaging in the food and drink industry; and reducing plastic generally.

The Coronavirus outbreak, with many feeling that widespread concerns are out of proportion and that the pandemic virus won’t affect operations within a business, such as sales, finance and logistics, as staff can work from

20 April 2020 | Dorset Business Focus home. It was acknowledged, however, that it will adversely affect the shop-floor.

Government grants and funding initiatives, and the importance of knowing how to take advantage of financial help that is available to business, like research & development tax credits.

The benefits and experiences of appointing a non-executive director to the Board to assist in strategy and bringing some wider views and experiences to the table.

Attracting and growing the next generation of manufacturing experts, which generated a passionate discussion from all guests. Most agreed that to be able to bring school leavers and graduates into the industry, the expectations and working culture of different generations have to be managed and accommodated within business models.

How a business owner must build the right team around them to ensure their final exit objectives can be realised.

Saffery Champness Partner, Roger Wareham commented, “What we heard from our guests confirmed that our manufacturing businesses are on the verge of significant change. With many relying historically on labour provision from within the EU, the government are clear that this will be less viable going forwards. To bridge this gap, investment in technology is going to be required. This, in itself, contains significant risk and many business leaders are facing the challenge of not only financing such investment but consideration of how the workforce they employ will need to ‘skill up’ to be able to maintain the right skill set to maintain and grow their businesses into the future.

“We are very pleased that the dinner was such a huge success. It achieved exactly what we wanted in respect of an open forum for local manufacturing business owners to share their experiences, discuss challenges and explore various themes currently impacting the sector. This is the first of a series we are planning and we look forward to welcoming more business owners to future events.”

Robert Rutherford, CEO of QuoStar, said: “Having spent over 20 years working directly with leaders within the manufacturing and engineer sector, it's clear to see that many are isolated from their peers. In my experience peer-led groups really benefit leaders and their businesses; from opening their eyes to innovation and new ideas through to dealing with day to day operations, supply chain and HR issues. It's very powerful to bring together hundreds of years of experience to discuss events and opportunities whilst also assisting in solving each other's challenges. QuoStar really benefits from the insights gained from these events; seeing where current issues and opportunities lie and where technologies, systems and our expertise can add real value.” Dr John Knowles, concluded, “It was an enjoyable night that couldn’t have come at a more vital time. The challenges faced by manufacturers today may feel overwhelming and a successful business of today will look very different than that of tomorrow. By creating a diverse platform to talk through these issues together, we were able to cover a significant ground on the night, including issues such as innovation, research and development, and strategic recruitment. It’s by no means plain sailing for today’s manufacturer, and it’s events like these which are essential to getting through rocky patches ahead.”

Dorset Chamber work with bionanovate™ limited to provide a Unique Sanitiser offer

bionanovate™ limited based at Tower Park, Poole, has been selling their HOCl™ product to the U.K. Supermarkets and Pharmacies for their “own labels”, for the past seven years; HOCl™ kills all known bacteria, spores & virus, including Coronavirus.

The Coronavirus Pandemic will affect many people and businesses. Supporting our community, matters now, more than ever. We have decided to do a production run to offer our HOCl™ product to our “Friends & Family”, to keep them safe at this time and to help keep necessary business trading in Dorset.

Pro-active companies such as PKF Francis Clark Accountants and Scott Walby LLP Solicitors, have already provided their own teams with 50 ml bottles and they are using HOCl™ throughout their own offices and client spaces. Working with Dorset Chamber we can offer a 50 ml hand sanitiser bottle for £3.00 including V.A.T. + £2.50 P&P. (Minimum four bottles £12.00 still £2.50 P&P - Maximum eight bottles £24 still £2.50 P&P). 150 ml surface sanitiser bottle for £9.00 including V.A.T. (Minimum Order Twin Pack £18 still £2.50 P&P - Maximum four bottles £36 still £2.50 P&P).

If you would like to order for your team, please view our Shop page on: NATURES-PANACEA.COM/

We are assisting local businesses at this torrid time, so, these bottles are not for re-sale, unless to your own team and their family at the price paid. HOCl will be delivered in a Jiffy bag (max. 8 x 50ml or 4 x 150ml) to the address entered on our On-line Shop.

If your employees are still working at a single trading premises, please phone or e-mail for larger quantities. Please view our web-site: www.natures-panacea.com and watch our YouTube video: Natures-Panacea HOCl for further information about our product that not only kills Coronavirus but kills all known virus, bacteria and spores. HOCl™ kills Coronavirus and is actually good for your hands, sanitising and healing at the same time and unlike 60% alcohol sanitisers, HOCl™ even kills the much harder to kill Norovirus www.bionanovate.com | 01202 659 523

Management buyout at electronics firm – by sons of founders

Long-established electronics manufacturer Electronic Technicians Ltd (ETL) has been acquired in a management buyout with a difference. For the Ferndown-based company, which was established in 1984, has been sold by founders Ken Crook and Pip Arnold – to their sons.

Managing Director Stuart Crook and Sales Director James Arnold are now at the helm of the multi-million-pound turnover company which boasts national and international customers.

The company styles itself as ‘a total solution contract electronic manufacturer’ and operates from its own modern 12,000 sq ft facility on Ferndown Industrial Estate.

Stuart Crook said: “It is very much business as usual here as both James and I have been with the company for many years and know it inside out.

“We see this very much as a positive change, a natural progression keeping the business in the family and securing its future for years ahead.

“We are looking for steady growth as we expand and modernise the business moving forward, offering an even more professional approach.”

Ken and Pip will be still involved with the business as advisors, their experience ready to be called upon when required. ETL, which has a dedicated staff of 50 – some who have been with the company for 30 years – works across the aerospace, automotive, defence, energy, marine and medical sectors.

It manufactures the likes of flight recorders, navigational equipment, vehicle climate control systems, contamination monitoring equipment, rescue service equipment, sonar devices and DNA analysis products. Clients include multi-national companies around the world.

James Arnold said: “We are very much focused on customer satisfaction. We intend to continue to invest heavily in equipment, business tools, services and people, particularly with regard to apprenticeships."

The third member of the management team is Operations Director Phil Scantlebury.

ETL was founded by Ken Crook and Pip Arnold in 1984 on the Trinity Industrial Estate in Wimborne, buying its current premises on Ferndown Industrial Estate in 1996 and subsequently acquiring the neighbouring factory in 2007.

South West accountancy firm PKF Francis Clark advised on the buyout with Poole office Managing Partner James Robinson, who has worked with ETL since 1995, helping to structure the takeover deal.

He said: “We facilitated the changes as a smooth process over a period of time, rather than loading too much financial burden on the company and its directors through a straightforward buyout. “We have also advised on future business strategy, tax efficiency on the constant investment in new equipment, income protection and protection for directors and their families.

“Ours is very much a strong businessto-business relationship rather than one of just traditional accountancy. We have vast experience in the field of family businesses and I hope this is very much helping ETL.”

Law firm Frettens, of Christchurch and Ringwood, advised on the legal aspects of the buyout. www.etluk.co.uk www.francisclark.co.uk

Staff from OEMAchem with managing director Mark Chiverton, front second left

Inspired by life

OEMAchem has formula for success

Helping others to find the best in themselves and their business, sits at the core of Beverley Poole’s values and approach to life.

As a trail-blazing business woman, she successfully built a training and recruitment company to the stage of acquisition by a major name and became a director at the age of 31. Up to date she has just launched a new e-learning platform to guide busy executives, companies, charities, franchises and educational establishments.

She has balanced the demands of the boardroom with the challenges (and joys) of motherhood and is the living embodiment of the power of personal brand.

Beverley’s polished appearance illustrates her keen attention to detail and her stylish ability to make a great first impression.

“The world of business can seem like a minefield but with the right guidance and insight, it is possible to find a way through.”

“Life is a continuous learning experience and that’s what makes it so fascinating,” said Beverley.

She has helped and guided some of the biggest names in business, across sectors ranging from construction to communications and the world of entertainment.

“I can draw on more than 20 years experience in business, the corporate world and adult education. I can clearly identify a strategy for moving a company forward that is sustainable and cost effective,” she explained.

Her Aspire4Business Academy draws together leading trainers and educators specialising in business, personal development and wellbeing. Online training modules can be accessed to suit busy diaries and leadership courses can be accredited by CMi. Beverley has won awards for Innovation and Future Proofing and is also currently shortlisted for an award in Education and Mentoring. For more details and testimonials visit www.aspire4businessacademy.com/ A global chemicals company has enjoyed a record-breaking start to the year with rising demand from the marine sector. OEMAchem supplied 150 tonnes of marine chemicals for 17 vessels on four continents in the first month of the year – including four leading cruise lines.

The growing firm’s services include the specialist manufacture, test, analysis, supply and monitoring of chemicals across multiple sectors.

Managing director Mark Chiverton said: “It’s been a superb start to the year and has set us up for a fantastic 2020. “We enjoyed a record-breaking January in terms of revenue and activity, with demand from the marine sector continuing to strengthen.

“This has been partly due to our ability to provide chemical solutions to help shipping meet increasingly stringent nitrous oxide (NOx) abatement regulations aimed at cutting air pollutant emissions.

“More generally, it can also be credited to our capacity to provide a wide range of managed services and solutions for everything onboard from swimming pools and spas to engineering and waste treatment.

“Many operators in the cruise, freight, tanker and container sectors are seeking greater value and efficiencies, which we are able to provide globally as well as domestically.”

Mark added: “Whether in the marine industry or the other sectors in which we operate, we pride ourselves on our professional and innovative approach.

22 April 2020 | Dorset Business Focus /company/dorset-chamber/ /dorsetchamber “We have a friendly and experienced team with a focus on customer service and swift turnaround times, and I hope our emphasis on respect and transparency is clear in all we do.”

During the first month of the year OEMAchem provided services for cruise line clients in the Americas, Asia, Europe and Australia – in Southampton, Singapore, Barbados and Melbourne.

The firm, with 15 staff at its head office at the Trinity Court in Brunel Road, Totton, was founded in 2005.

It manufactures and supplies more than 400 chemicals for such uses as waste oil and water treatment, solvent cleaners, biocides and sanitisation.

The firm uses cutting edge technology for its independent analytical and testing services in the laboratory and on site in a variety of environments.

This includes contaminates and substances in oil, fuel, soil, gas, air and aggregates as well as in leisure, waste, cooling and drinking water.

Regulations have been introduced to make the marine sector cut greenhouse gas emissions such as NOx and sulphur dioxide.

Chemical processes which ‘clean’ engine exhaust emissions before they are released into the atmosphere are among the methods to make vessels greener and cleaner.

OEMAchem’s clients range from small businesses and domestic customers to global cruise lines, major ports and shipyards. oemachem.co.uk/, call 02380 707686