Dorset Business Focus | November 2024

Caroline Sharp

caroline.sharp

@dorsetchamber.co.uk

Ed

Earl ed.earl @dorsetchamber.co.uk

About the magazine

Dorset Business Focus magazine is the most widely read business publication in the Dorset business community with a readership of over 10k+. Packed full of great articles, it features the latest news from our diverse membership.

Dorset Chamber members can upload content for consideration by the editorial team to feature in the magazine. Visit our website and submit your news articles for a chance to feature in the next issue of the magazine: www.dorsetchamber.co.uk/news/ submit-your-news/

You can also read the digital version of the magazine on our website.

Welcome

Hello and welcome to November’s Dorset Business Focus.

I’d like to begin by saying a huge thank you to everyone that participated in the four great events for the 2024 Dorset Business Festival. From a packed launch breakfast on a rainy Monday, to the brilliant Expo, the incredibly informative conference and another great Dorset Business Awards Gala (congratulations to all our winners and finalists!), the festival was another great success. Our aim was to unite Dorset businesses and celebrate the importance of business as a force for good and we believe this came through so strongly in the Festival. Business makes a hugely positive impact to society on so many levels and we should remember and celebrate this. A huge thank you as well to Premier Festival Partner, Lester Aldridge and Festival Partners, Bournemouth and Poole College, Blue Sky Financial Planning, Dorset Council, ElectriX and YMCA Bournemouth.

Back to the present, the Autumn Budget was delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, and we will be gauging the reaction of business over the next few weeks. Recently we ran a LinkedIn poll to see how business people were feeling about the impending budget given the very gloomy messages coming from the Government in the run up to the budget.

Unsurprisingly, of the 79 that responded to the poll, 48% said they were very concerned about the forthcoming budget, 42% somewhat concerned and only 10% not concerned. It will be interesting to compare this now the budget has been delivered.

We are also delighted that our new programme in partnership with Intergage to help businesses understand and embed AI is now up and running.

Chamber House, Acorn Office Park Ling Road, Poole, Dorset BH12 4NZ T. 01202 714800 W. www.dorsetchamber.co.uk

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Consisting of a half day introductory session and then monthly events as part of a membership, Campfire will look at all aspects of AI and help inform the development of an AI strategy which needs to be the starting point for any business looking to use AI. For more information, please see the Dorset Chamber website.

We hope you enjoy our magazine this month and as I always say, if there is anything we can help you with in your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Ian Girling Chief Executive Dorset Chamber

Be part of Dorset’s leading business support organisation

Joining Dorset Chamber is a valuable and powerful investment for any business. Engaging with us and using membership to its full potential brings demonstrable business benefits.

To find out more contact paul.taylor@dorsetchamber | 01202 714818

Through October the events of the Dorset Business Festival have seen over a thousand people attend events celebrating Dorset Business with a focus on ‘business as a force for good’.

Festival Breakfast

The festival got off to a flying start with a launch event featuring keynote speakers and backing for the British armed forces.

More than 130 people packed into the Rick Stein’s in Sandbanks to hear from chamber chief executive, Ian Girling, and Jobs Foundation president, Matthew Elliott, who spoke about the charity’s mission to champion business as a ‘force for good’

This year’s festival set out to show just how important a contribution businesses make to society and the economy, while demonstrating that acting in a social and environmentally responsible way delivers real benefits for the bottom line, growth and future development.

Armed Forces Covenant

At the breakfast event chamber president, Tony Brown, signed the Armed Forces Covenant on behalf of Dorset Chamber. He was joined by Major Joe Williamson, British Army, Armoured Futures and Integration, to mark the business support organisation’s bronze award in the Defence Employer Recognition scheme for its forces friendly credentials.

L-r: Tony Brown, Dorset Chamber president | Emma Hardy, Blue Sky Financial Planning | Julie O’Carroll, Bournemouth and Poole College | Theo Scarrett, ElectriX | Lord Matthew Elliott, The Jobs Foundation | Philip Sayles, Bournemouth and Poole College | Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber | Russell Skinner, Blue Sky Financial Planning | Kurt Lee, Lester Aldridge | Sheena Dayman, YMCA Bournemouth

Major Joe Williamson, British Army,

Business hailed as ‘force for good’ 9 Oct 2024

Business with purpose has the power to transform people, profits and the planet - that was the inspirational message at this year’s Dorset Business Festival conference.

The event, with the bold theme of ‘business as a force for good’, was hailed as a fantastic success as one of the highlights of the fortnight long festival – the largest of its kind in the area - being held to celebrate, support and champion business.

More than 150 delegates packed into this year’s event which demonstrated how purpose led businesses and those with an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) focus thrive.

Broadcaster Declan Curry hosted the conference at the Hilton Hotel in Bournemouth, which included keynotes,

panel discussions, Q&As and networking.

Keynote speaker Benita Matofska, a global climate change consultant and social entrepreneur, took delegates on a virtual trip around the world to inspire businesses to future-proof their operations, whilst making a positive impact.

Fellow keynote speaker Lord Matthew Elliott, president of the Jobs Foundation, championed the role of business in advancing social mobility, lifting people out of poverty and supporting business growth as well as in job creation, training and contributions to the treasury.

It was overwhelmingly clear by the end of the conference that being a force for good is a smart business strategy.

Panel discussions, featuring 16 specialists covered topics including:

• Embedding Environmental and Social Responsibility for Growth

• Sustainable Business: Where Profit and Planet Align

• Leadership and Innovation. Business as a Problem Solver

• Gen Z, Gen Alpha and Beyond: Their Future in our Hands

Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber chief executive, said: “It was overwhelmingly clear by the end of the conference that being a force for good is a smart business strategy.

“Our inspirational speakers and panellists debunked plenty of myths and showed how businesses with purpose can not only enhance their profitability but also shape their strategic growth for the future and make a difference to society and the world around them.”

Dorset Business Awards 2024: Meet the Winners

Thank you to all of the 2024 finalists of this years’ awards. The quality of the entries received from businesses across Dorset has been impressive.

Entries were judged against the criteria for the category by an independent panel of experts, with each one a highly respected and experienced business leader. The judges were extremely impressed by the calibre and quality of the entries that showcased the wonderful businesses operating in the county.

On 10 October, finalists and their families joined Dorset Chamber Members at the 2024 Business Awards Gala, where the winners were announced.

View the gallery of Festival photos here

And the winners are.... Dorset Business Awards Winners 2024

Businesses basked in the glow of success after winning honours in Dorset’s most prestigious awards.

Winners were announced in 10 categories in a sparkling ceremony at the Dorset Business Awards. The celebration at the Hilton Hotel in Bournemouth was a fitting finale for this year’s Dorset Business Festival.

Ian Girling, chief executive of awards and festival organisers Dorset Chamber, said: “Congratulations to all of our very worthy

winners. They richly deserve their success after standing out in a strong field of entries which showcased what an exceptional business community we have in Dorset.

“The awards were the perfect way to end our second annual Dorset Business Festival. Warmest thanks go to everyone who made the awards, and the business festival, such a phenomenal success and helped show why Dorset is such an outstanding place in which to work, live and do business.”

Environmental Impact Award Eco Sustainable Solutions Ltd

Export Business Award The Silver Crane Co.

Future Leader Award David Burnet (INVIDAR)

Scale-Up Award The Silver Crane Co.

Social Impact Award Lewis Manning Hospice Care

Dorset Business Festival Expo

On October 2, more than 500 people poured through the doors of the Dorset Business Festival Expo. Attendees met exhibitors from a diverse range of businesses, enterprises and organisations on 70 stands at the Dorset Chamber organised showcase. The expo at the Hilton Hotel in Bournemouth was the second event to be held as part of this year’s bumper Dorset Business Festival. Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling said:

“The expo was buzzing and full of energy. The diversity of businesses attending was brilliant as delegates mixed, networked, toured stands and discussed potential partnerships and opportunities.”

“It was great to see so many like minded businesses brought together in one place and show just what a supportive, forward-thinking and innovative business community we have in Dorset.

Boots, Bins and Balls, Utilita’s Boot Pong Challenge

AFC Bournemouth hosted official energy & sustainability partner, Utilita, at a recent training session with some special content being produced for supporters.

Alongside former Soccer AM presenter James Kirtland AKA Curly, Utilita put some of the lads to the test in the Boot Pong Challenge. Check out how Max Aarons and David Brooks got on against Lewis Cook and James Hillit was all to play for with the losers’ boots on the line!

The challenge is inspired by Utilita’s Football Rebooted campaign which is helping the nation to recycle and rehome quality boots - boot donation bins are popping up at schools, clubs and organisations across the UK. Aiming to rehome 1 million pairs of boots, it’s football’s biggest environmental movement!

You can support the Football Rebooted initiative by donating your boots at the club superstore. www.footballrebooted.co.uk www.afcb.co.uk

Dare to Care: Skydivers Raise Over

£22,000 in Thrilling 10,000ft Jump

Old Sarum Airfield in Salisbury was where 28 brave souls gathered to take to the skies, leaping from 10,000 feet in a thrilling charity skydive to support Lewis-Manning Hospice Care nurses. With over £22,000 raised, the event not only gave participants an unforgettable adrenaline rush, but it will also make a huge impact on the patients and families the charity supports.

The event paired each skydiver with one of the hospice’s dedicated nurses, ensuring that everyone involved had a personal connection to the cause they were supporting. By the afternoon, the sun broke through, and the skydivers took to the air. Cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd of family, friends, hospice staff, and patients, the atmosphere at the airfield was electric with excitement and pride. Spirits were high as each participant learned the story of the nurse they were raising money for, forging a personal connection and a deeper appreciation for the vital work these nurses do.

Dorset Chamber CEO, Ian Girling, one of the day’s participants reflected on the experience, “It is fantastic to be here and be part of this incredible day. I felt so nervous, but the skydive was fantastic. I can definitely say I have faced my fear of heights. Leaping out of the plane was the most terrifying thing I have ever done but the free fall was incredible! I am so proud to support the charity and am very grateful to all our supporters.”

www.lewis-manning.org.uk

by Tony Brown

One of the most rewarding things for me is supporting charities, personally I get a real buzz from it and a great sense of wellbeing no matter what hurdles life gives me.

Businesses that support charities can receive several benefits, both in terms of corporate social responsibility and the businesses own performance. Championing a charity can enhance a company’s reputation and public image; consumers often appreciate this and are more likely to support businesses that demonstrate a commitment to social and environmental causes. Customers will also feel a stronger connection to a business that positions itself with their own values and actively contributes to charitable causes. This can lead to an increased customer loyalty and repeat business. Employees also appreciate working for a company that embraces social responsibility. Supporting a charity can boost employee morale and engagement by nurturing a sense of pride and purpose in the workplace

A strong commitment to charities and local causes can make a company more attractive to potential employees; many individuals prefer working for organisations that contribute to the well-being of communities and society as a whole. This is becoming much more relevant now when taking stock of the current employment market. While there are many benefits, it’s essential for businesses to choose charities and causes that align with their values and resonate with their target audience. A genuine commitment to social responsibility is crucial for building trust and reaping the full benefits of supporting the community.

Their Future in Our Hands: Gen Z, Alpha and Beyond

Phil Sayles, Principal and CEO of Bournemouth and Poole College, writes about the opportunities for business in collaborating with our county’s largest further education college.

The opportunity to bring five young students into the heart of our Dorset business community at a brilliant conference was my highlight of the Dorset Business Festival 2024, and in itself epitomised the festival theme of ‘Business as a Force for Good’.

Since 2020, the difficulty of recruiting people with the right knowledge, technical skills and character has become probably the biggest obstacles to business growth and productivity.

As the biggest provider of technical education and skills for the BCP area and East Dorset, working across most areas of the economy, Bournemouth and Poole College has spent the last three years rewiring what we do, working to equip young people and adults better for the workplace and good careers.

In parallel, we are now working more intensely with employers to understand and meet their training needs, and are a connector between people needing and receiving training and the employers seeking new talent. In creating training, for example, on apprenticeships, of which we are one of the biggest and best providers in the country, collaborative delivery of training with employers is becoming a developing

model, ensuring the most specific and current skills can be taught, and in a way that matches the business’s operations.

Before we even get to formal training, collaboration between businesses and the college can create great opportunities to open young people’s minds and increase their awareness of the possibilities, excitement and realities of work, preparing them for their next steps. This can happen through industrial placements, meaningful work experience, visits, ‘live briefs’ from employers, talks and workshops. Businesses can even make inspiring connections that may mean a student will focus on following a career in a specific sector, or with the employer.

A day can make a difference too, which brings us back to the conference. I was delighted to be invited to speak on a panel on generational differences in the workforce, and it inspired me to hold a session with the school leavers on our new, flagship, Business T Level course. Equivalent to three A Levels, this is an exciting, extended hours programme filled with modern approaches and real experiences, which prepares students for university-level study and work. I wanted to know what real 16-year-olds thought about the topic, which was enlightening.

Discussing this with Ian Girling, CEO of Dorset Chamber, prompted his kind offer for five students and their tutor to attend the conference, their first external business event. From the moment they selected a table right

near the stage, it was a brilliant experiential day for the group, who also confidently contributed from the floor to the panel debate. Speaking at the end, the group affirmed their enjoyment of the day and how it had added to their already considerable career motivation. Our college’s purposes are to help people improve their lives through education and training, to help businesses be more productive, and to help raise prosperity for all. Part of that happens through finding great experiences for our students.

www.thecollege.co.uk

Phil Sayles, principal and CEO, Bournemouth and Poole College

Brooke Hall, student, Bournemouth and Poole College

Zest Lifestyle is excited to announce the launch of its new employee wellness platform, ‘Zestify’. This innovative platform aims to transform the approach to workplace wellness, supporting both employers and employees in creating healthier and more engaged workplaces.

Zestify is built around five pillars of vitality: sleep, eat, move, think, and pause. It combines practical advice and expert content to empower employees to take charge of their health and wellness.

Rachel Williams, founder of Zest Lifestyle and creator of Zestify, said: “We are thrilled to unveil Zestify. We believe this platform will change how businesses support the wellness of their teams, helping to foster a culture of health and vitality that benefits everyone.”

As part of the launch, Zest Lifestyle is offering Dorset Chamber members a discounted subscription offer of 15% off the list price. www.zestlifestyle.com

The Great Tail Trail reaches an exciting milestone as designs are chosen ‘Zestify’ – the new Employee Wellness Platform

The final designs for The Great Tail Trail sculptures have been chosen by their sponsors at an exciting event held at AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium.

Nearly 500 designs were submitted earlier this year by artists all hoping to see their artwork appear on one of 45 giant mermaid tail sculptures during next spring’s 8-week trail across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP). The entries were whittled down to a final shortlist and local business sponsors were asked to choose their favourites at the design selection event.The trail will raise vital funds and awareness for Julia’s House, Dorset’s local children’s hospice charity.

The chosen artists will soon take receipt of their blank sculptures and begin painting them with their mer-mazing designs – we know they’re going to do an incredible job! With just 15 giant mermaid tails still available, time is running out for local businesses to dive in and benefit from being part of this huge public event. So don’t miss out – help us make a big splash as we raise money to support the families of seriously ill children across Dorset.

Renowned contemporary artist Stuart Semple, from Bournemouth, was

commissioned to design the very first mermaid tail sculpture entitled ‘Flipping Pink’ for the launch of The Great Tail Trail earlier this year. Painted in the pinkest pink in the world and encrusted with a kilogram

of diamond dust, Stuart’s playful design sparkles and shines magnificently, and is sure to stand out and be a favourite on the trail. www.juliashouse.org

Preventing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

The new Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023 came into force on 26 October 2024.

The Equality Act 2010 already provides for protection against sexual harassment in the workplace from day one of employment, but that protection was not considered sufficient amid concerns that the true picture of sexual harassment in workplaces was being under-reported.

This new legislation puts a legal duty on all employers to pro-actively take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace (note – the Employment Rights Bill introduced last week seeks to amend this provision to ‘all reasonable steps’ –potentially a much higher bar to reach). As well as ensuring that any complaints of sexual harassment are dealt with appropriately, it is now key for employers to be able to show that preventative measures are in place and action has been taken to minimise anticipated risks.

Employers will also now be required to take action to prevent sexual harassment of their employees by third parties, for example, by their clients, suppliers, service users or customers. What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is defined as unwanted conduct of a sexual nature that has the purpose or effect of violating a person’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.

Sexual harassment can come from anyone that an individual engages with in the workplace, regardless of age, gender, and whether it was a one-off incident or part of a series of events. The harassment can include jokes, sharing offensive images, inappropriate questions, emails, social media posts or physical contact.

Sexual harassment in the workplace can have very serious consequences. The impact on the individual who experiences sexual harassment can be devastating, affecting their work and home life, their confidence and their health and wellbeing. For employers and business owners, aside

from the potential for expensive employment tribunal claims, it can lead to damage to reputation, difficulty in retaining and recruiting staff, and result in a culture of fear, inequality and poor employee engagement. As an employer, where should I start? Employers need to understand what risks may already exist and pro-actively look ahead for any potential risks. Risk assessments should be carried out to identify areas where improvement is needed, in the same way as if an employer was assessing the risk of physical injury in the workplace. Don’t forget to also assess the potential risk posed by third parties. Research suggests that there are certain scenarios that may heighten the risk of sexual harassment taking place, such as where alcohol is involved or where there is an imbalance of power in the working relationship. There is evidence that workplaces that lack diversity have an increased risk of sexual harassment.

Training

Compulsory training at all levels is important to ensure that a consistent approach is taken around standards of behaviour, and should be refreshed on a regular basis. Training should be specific to the relevant sector or working environment.

Managers and supervisors have a key part to play in leading by example and dealing swiftly with any issues. More detailed training should be given to managers and HR teams so that they are confident in handling concerns appropriately.

The importance of clear and accessible policies

It is not enough to simply say that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated, there needs to be awareness of how to prevent sexual harassment, how to identify it and how to report it. Policies should be clear and accessible and reviewed on a regular basis, empowering individuals to report

concerns, safe in the knowledge they will be dealt with appropriately and sensitively. An employer that encourages openness and supports employees who report genuine concerns will be better placed to discourage and eradicate poor behaviour quickly.

Support for managers and supervisors If an employee reports sexual harassment, their concerns must be taken seriously and investigated fairly, without undue delay, and in line with the relevant procedures. Managers should know how to respond to any reports, and how to support both parties involved in complaints of sexual harassment.

Although a breach of the new legislation alone is not grounds for an employment tribunal claim, if an employee is found to have been sexually harassed in the workplace, the new legislation allows the tribunal to increase any compensation by 25% where the employer is found to have breached their obligations. In addition, the Equality and Human Rights Commission will be able to take enforcement action against employers. If you would like to discuss your obligations as an employer or business owner, our Employment and HR Team can assist with preparing risk assessment documents, reviewing policies and procedures and are able to deliver bespoke training to employees and managers.

Emma Starmer Senior Employment Law and HR Advisor emma.starmer@la-law.com

www.lesteraldridge.com

Take the bus to work!

Morebus launches new Commuter Club for employees of local businesses

Morebus is working with BCP Council and local businesses to encourage more local workers to opt for sustainable transport.

The bus operator is introducing a special Commuter Club, which offers employees of participating companies discounted bus travel across the region.

“According to Fuel Genie, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole is the third most congested area of the UK - surpassed only by Edinburgh and London,” said Morebus head of communications, Nikki Honer.

“With the knowledge that just one fully loaded double decker bus has the potential to take up to 75 cars off the road, we’re determined to help ease the traffic here. During the last year we have invested around £16.25m in 55 new double decker buses for our fleet, replacing single deckers, to provide more room for passengers.

“We are encouraging employees of local businesses to leave their cars at home and travel with us instead. To do this, we have created a Commuter Club, with funding through BCP Council from the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).

“Employers can sign up to the scheme, which involves a modest annual membership fee depending on the number of employees

they have. In return, workers will benefit from £1 bus tickets, which can be bought in bundles of 20. Initially up to five bundles can be purchased with further bundles offering a saving of 20 percent on full-priced tickets.

This ticket offer provides a flexible solution at a bargain starting price of just £1 per journey. We would encourage companies to get involved, and everyone to give the bus a try. www.morebus.co.uk/commuter-club

Creative View

The Power of the Portrait

Everyone knows the age-old adage; people buy from people they know and trust. These days people often don’t get the chance to meet the people they do business with, but connect with them online. What does your online image say about you, what first impression are you making on your LinkedIn profile image/ website profile/ company brochure? Does it say professional, capable and trustworthy?

The ‘power of the image’ is paramount, and can make the difference between a potential client researching you and your company to do business with you, or clicking onto the next supplier. It takes about two seconds for people to make a decision, and decide whether they are going to consider, if they are going to use you and your services or not. Making the decision to get professional photographs done for you and your team, is one of the most important and often overlooked decisions you can make for your business.

And the difference between amateur and pro work is huge. Professional headshot photographers take photographs for a living, so they are going to be good.

Though the process might seem daunting and you feel you don’t have the time to get it done, here are a few tips to guide through the process and make it easy and stress free.

What to look for in your photographer?

• Research their previous work, check out their portrait section on their website, have they got a range of different styles and is there a style there you like. There are many different styles, from a formal white or plain backdrop studio style, to a less formal on location or outdoors theme. These days either style works for most businesses, a lot of people are now opting for less of the studio type shot, and more informal, relaxed type style of shoot.

• Check out the reviews they have received online; google reviews, website.

• If you have met them, do you like them, do you feel you could work with them and enjoy the process. Do you think they will listen to your requests and follow your brief.

• Research photography on other websites and businesses, what style have they chosen, what resonates with you. I often ask my clients if they have no idea what they would like, to do a little research online, just google business portraits and you will find many examples and styles that will help you choose.

So do yourself a favour, get the best portrait photograph you can and impress those clients.

Sasfi Hope-Ross, Photographe

Sasfi Hope-Ross LBIPP, SWPP, Photographer

Chamber Strengthens Ranks with New Business Partner

Ocean Automotive is in the driving seat as a new platinum business partner at Dorset Chamber.

The group represents the Audi and Volvo brands in Dorset and Somerset, selling both new and approved used cars, along with manufacturer approved vehicles. It also has accident repair centres in Poole and Yeovil.

Dorset Chamber’s business partner programme is for members that wish to make a greater contribution to the organisation and the business community.

Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling said: “Ocean Automotive is a progressive and dynamic company whose values match our own.

“It brings great energy and integrity to the ranks of our business partners as a business with an excellent reputation and passion for its field.

“We look forward to developing a strong relationship with Ocean Automotive as our Automotive Partner to help further raise its profile while supporting the business community and growth of the local economy.”

The Ocean Automotive group has 270 staff based at Poole Audi, Yeovil Audi and Volvo Cars Poole as well as two accident repair businesses – Poole Accident Repair and Yeovil Accident Repair.

Gail Polkinghorne, Ocean Automotive Managing Director, said: “I am delighted to continue and expand our longstanding partnership with Dorset Chamber. Our shared commercial values and our combined passion for the success of business in the wider Dorset community make this the perfect partnership. Myself and our teams look forward to our future work together. ”

Ocean Automotive has a mission to ‘deliver a customer experience as prestigious as

the brands it represents’. Its four key values are: energy, expertise, pride and integrity. Its businesses in Poole and Yeovil are the only Audi-approved centres in Dorset, West Hampshire, Dorchester and Somerset. Its Volvo Cars Poole business is the only approved Volvo service and parts centre in Dorset. Poole Audi is in Old Wareham Road, Poole. Yeovil Audi is in Mead Avenue, on the Houndstone Business Park in Yeovil. Volvo Cars Poole is on Ringwood Road in Poole. www.oceanautomotive.co.uk/

Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber with Elliot Onoran, Ocean Automotive

New Faces, New Places. Celebrating new roles being filled within the Members of the Dorset Chamber

CLP welcome New Senior Planner

Chapman Lily Planning has announced the addition of Jonathan Leigh to their team as a Senior Planner. Jonathan brings with him a wealth of experience and skills which will strengthen its capacity in promoting strategic land and our research capabilities.

Jonathan shared his thoughts on his new role, saying: ‘I am thrilled to join Chapman Lily Planning and contribute to their reputation for excellence in the planning sector. With my experience in neighbourhood planning, stakeholder engagement, and managing major development projects across diverse regions, I am eager to apply my skills to deliver high-quality planning services to our clients. www.clplanning.co.uk

Hendy Group strengthens leadership team with appointment of new Head of Marketing Hendy Group has appointed Louise Woolley as its new Head of Marketing, effective immediately, to oversee the development and implementation of all strategic and tactical marketing activity.

Woolley joined Hendy Group in 2022 as Marketing Manager, bringing over 15 years’ experience in strategic marketing roles. Woolley will be responsible for helping the Group further improve positive brand awareness, increase engagement with a growing volume of current and prospective customers, and ensure all communications activities are aligned with Hendy’s vision and values.

www.hendy.co.uk

Even Keel Solutions Welcomes New Apprentice to Growing Team

Even Keel Solutions has appointed Jessica Oliver as their newest Insolvency Administrator. Jessica will be undertaking a Business Administration Level 3 apprenticeship through Bournemouth and Poole College.

Jessica, a former student of Glenmoor and Winton Academy, started working with Even Keel Solutions, part-time in February 2023 in general administration. Impressed by the profession, Jessica decided to deepen her knowledge of the insolvency sector and enhance her business acumen. Since June 24, Jessica has transitioned to a near full-time role.

Directors Dorothy Brown and Andrew Rumsey have been impressed with her rapid progress. “Jessica is proving to be a fast learner, and her confidence in the role is growing exponentially”. www.evenkeelsolutions.co.uk

Lester Aldridge Celebrates the Qualification of Six Solicitors

Lester Aldridge has announced six trainee solicitors have completed their two-year training contracts and are now fully qualified. Congratulations Alice Robertson, Chanjot Sandhi, Chengcheng Zheng, George Robinson, Grace Long, and Megan Martin on their successful qualification as solicitors.

Mark Benham, Partner and Head of Real Estate, commented, “We are thrilled to congratulate Alice, Chanjot, Chengcheng, George, Grace, and Megan on their qualification. Their dedication and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to our firm’s continued success and expansion. We look forward to seeing them thrive as integral members of their teams.”

www.lesteraldridge.com

Goodknight Property Management appoints new Property Manager

Goodknight Property Management has welcomed Katie Ede as their new dedicated Property Manager. Katie is a seasoned property professional with a wealth of knowledge and expertise.

Beginning as a Lettings Administrator, Katie progressed through various property management roles, including managing a large corporate lettings branch. With an ARLA qualification, Katie has consistently demonstrated her dedication to staying up-to-date with industry standards and best practices.

www.goodknight.co

McKenna Townsend expands social media team with new hire McKenna Townsend, has strengthened its team with the addition of a new Social Media Executive, Emily Packham.

Emily brings a wealth of experience in managing social media platforms for clients, particularly in leveraging programmes for brand growth. Her expertise includes successful influencer engagement and utilising platforms including TikTok, to drive product sales and visibility and to connect with new audiences. Emily excels at optimising results by developing the right balance between paid and organic social media activity across both B2B and B2C channels, with a strong focus on cultivating ongoing, meaningful engagement.

www.mckennatownsend.com

Financial Planning for Your Business Exit: Beyond the Sale Price

So, you’re looking to get some financial planning in place for your business exit? Having an independent financial adviser to support you through your business sale can be invaluable, not just after the sale but also during the process itself. Here, Oscar Hjalmas, CEO of Baggette + co shares his views on what to look out for.

Potentially, the main obstacles for many when selling their business is taxation, associated costs, and legalities. And let’s not forget many people need to consider what they will do with the money once the sale has been completed.

Understanding Your Business’s Value: Key to a Successful Exit

• Discounted Cash Flow Analysis: Predicting future cash flows and then discounting them back to today’s date to get a valuation.

• Comparable Company Analysis: Comparing your business with similar companies, using financial ratios to establish a “fair value”.

• Precedent Transactions Analysis: This is the most straightforward way. It looks at what your competitors sold for and makes a judgement on how much your business is worth.

• Asset Based Valuation: Values your business purely on its assets, such as machinery or property, and doesn’t include any other factors.

• Earnings Multiples: This method looks at your company’s earnings, often EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortisation), and multiplies it by a sector-agreed number to estimate value.

When selling your business, you and your accountant can use a variety of these valuation methods. You’ll naturally be seeking the highest possible value, while your buyer will be seeking the lowest. But it’s important to have a financial plan in place to ensure you can maximise the valuation.

Minimising Tax implications

During a Business Sale Taxation is a huge maze when it comes to business exit. This is where working with a good independent financial adviser, in conjunction with an accountant, is paramount to achieving good outcomes for you. Some example taxes you might encounter are:

• Capital Gains Tax: A tax on the profit you make when you sell an asset that has increased in value.

• Income Tax: A tax on your income, potentially including any proceeds from the sale of your business.

• Sales Tax and/or Value Added Tax: A tax on the sale of goods and services.

• Transfer Taxes: Taxes levied on the transfer of assets, such as property or shares.

• Corporation Taxes: A tax on the profits of a company.

All of these taxes can be mitigated, or even completely eliminated, if an appropriate tax efficient strategy is adhered to. One of the main ways to mitigate some or all of the taxation element is by using Business Asset Disposal Relief (‘BADR’), previously known as Entrepreneurs’ Relief. This allows you to pay only 10% on the first £1,000,000 for qualifying sales.

Another possible avenue is to use what is commonly known as a HOLD CO structure, whereby your business is held in a parent company. This is why it’s so important to seek professional advice to ensure you’re maximising the value of what you have worked so hard to create.

Post-Sale Financial Planning:

Securing Your Future

Your business is sold, the tax implications have been considered and finalised, and all professional fees are paid. What’s next? Is retirement planning highest on the agenda, or do you plan on diving straight back into another venture? You may even be considering investing some of your money. One thing is for certain: you will need a structured plan to manage your finances moving forward.

Most business owners tend to be “asset rich, cash poor”. Well, this no longer applies to you.

Having a clear financial plan with defined post-exit financial goals is crucial in this new phase of your life. This is where an independent financial adviser can help, providing structure and continuous reviews to ensure you’re making the right decisions with your money.

A good financial adviser will go through all aspects of your finances, including budgeting, retirement planning, and estate planning. Your finances are all interlinked, so a holistic approach will yield the best long-term outcomes.

www.baggette.co.uk

Oscar Hjalmas, CEO of Baggette + co

BU Secures Turing Scheme Funding for Student International Opportunities

Greendale Nears

Completion on Works at Bournemouth University

Greendale Construction Limited is nearing completion on its works for Bournemouth University’s Faculty of Media & Communication on the ground floor of Weymouth House. The £1.5 million, fourteenweek contract which commenced on 3rd June 2024, is part of the Talbot Campus remodelling project, and has seen Greendale involved in the formation of new PC labs, radio studios and podcasting rooms, as well as providing necessary welfare facilities, along with a social collaboration space at the heart of the building. Additional and bigger teaching facilities will now be in place, in alignment with projected group sizes, creating an active and vibrant ground floor. The redevelopment is a major project for Bournemouth University, delivering specialist student facilities for the Department of Communication & Journalism, and for students engaged with radio production from across the faculty, enhancing the student experience at BU.

Chris Kane, Director, Greendale Construction commented: “Greendale is always pleased to continue working with Bournemouth University on its redevelopment and improvement projects and this has been no exception.” www.greendaleconstruction.com

Bournemouth University (BU) students have access to life-changing opportunities to experience learning, working and living abroad, thanks to the UK Turing Scheme.

BU has been awarded a grant of £1.2 million for the 2024/25 academic year to fund students of all levels to undertake a range of activities across the world including: student exchanges at partner universities, work placements and volunteering at businesses and nongovernmental organisations globally.

Students will also contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), creating societal impact globally, through international projects organised by BU’s partner universities across the world. In addition, to make international opportunities more accessible for all students, the scheme will continue to provide additional funding for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Students who take part in these opportunities benefit from increased intercultural understanding and awareness and gain valuable skills that are highly sought after by employers in today’s globalised world. International mobility programmes have been shown to enhance students’ knowledge, skills and values through enhancing their academic performance, employability, and personal development. www.bournemouth.ac.uk

Separating the Hype From the Reality: Building AI Into Your Business

Right now is a great time to be alive, especially if you are excited by new business technology. No technology in history has had the potential to transform business and our businesses like AI. But separating reality from hype can be a challenge.

There are risks too. Far more employees are using way more AI tools to get work done than many employers believe. This can be dangerous. Employers are often shocked to find out how easily confidential business and client information can find its way into the public domain.

Around a year ago, at Intergage, we

employed a Group Head of AI, by the name of Luke Williams. Luke’s job is to help us understand how AI can be used to make us more productive. And crucially. How to adopt AI technology in a structured and safe way.

Luke showed the team at Dorset Chamber what he had learned in his year in his new role, and they asked him to share that learning with their members.

And so we’re putting on an event. We are calling it Campfire.... This event is a gateway into a new community in Dorset.

You don’t have to be a Dorset Chamber member to join us, but it will save you money if you are.

Why not come along?

Learn from Luke’s last year in his role as Group Head of AI at Intergage and join a community of innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders who want to share and learn about AI together.

In a time of fast-moving and unprecedented technological change, the biggest gamble you can take with your business is NOT embracing AI. So please visit the Dorset Chamber website now and just book your place. It just makes sense.

wPaul Tansey, Intergage

www.campfire-ai.com

Poole Town FC Backing New Community Sports Village At Creekmoor

Representatives of Poole Town Football Club, YMCA Bournemouth, and the Gale Foundation Trust CIO recently submitted a concept plan for a community sports village in Creekmoor as part of BCP Council’s Local Plan consultation.

As well as a new football ground and training space for Poole Town Football Club (Mens, Ladies & 26 Youth Teams), the concept includes increased nursery facilities, a community hub, a multi-use games area, cycle and walking links, a sports centre and sports village comprising independent sport and recreation providers.

Poole Town Football Club has already demonstrated the value that this scheme would deliver to the conurbation. This year alone, the Kids Initiative has already run approximately 200 free football coaching sessions for children aged five to 13.

The future of the Creekmoor scheme is reliant on support from key stakeholders including BCP Council. First, the land must be allocated for community benefit in the pending BCP Local Plan to enable the delivery of this scheme.

www.pooletownfc.co.uk

www.ymcabournemouth.org.uk

Apprentices graduate at Saffery Bournemouth as 2025 Apprenticeship Program Opens for Applicants

Four members of staff have graduated from their apprenticeship scheme and are now fully fledged accountants, having passed their ACA exams. The graduates have spent the last 4 years training, combining their studies with working life at Saffery in Bournemouth.

Staff partner Casidhe Baleri commented, “We are incredibly proud of the achievements of James, Alice, John and Edward. They’ve worked hard and balanced working life well with studying and have proved themselves to be valuable members of our team.

“Whether you’re finishing school or college, have completed a university degree or simply looking for a change of path, our team would love to speak to you and we urge interested applicants to get in touch.

On completing qualifying, the newly promoted graduates commented on their success and career journey to date:

Alice McNab, age 23, joined as a sixth form school leaver from The Blandford School advised,

“Completing the ACA qualification made me realise that the greatest challenge is believing in yourself and once you do, you realise that every effort was worth it. Having lacked self-belief throughout my entire education, I can now truly say that I can do anything I set my mind to. It’s a huge achievement to be qualified, with all firsttime passes, and no university debt!”

www.saffery.com

Young Lawyers Receive Marching Orders on Army-run Operation Team Build

Twenty junior colleagues at a south coast legal firm swapped their office desks for a hands-on team building day run by professional soldiers from the British Army Reserve.

The lawyers, trainees and paralegals from Ellis Jones Solicitors completed militarythemed activities designed to challenge them while encouraging confidence in problem solving, leadership and ‘followership’.

Badged as ‘Operation Team Build’, the experience featured against-the-clock assignments that required participants to work together to pool ideas on tactics, delegate tasks and take responsibility.

Activities tested both physical skills and logical thinking. They included a subarctic survival scenario and a ‘mission possible’ exercise that involved performing 24 command tasks in 45 minutes.

The day was organised by the Royal Wessex Yeomanry, the UK’s part-time tank regiment, and held at their centre on Wallisdown Road, Bournemouth.

Employing nearly 200 people, with offices in Ringwood, Bournemouth, Poole, Swanage, Wimborne, Broadstone and London, Ellis Jones has a number of staff with regular, reservist and cadet force connections.

The firm is a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant, a promise by the

nation ensuring that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

In August 2024, Ellis Jones received

the Gold Award of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) for its forcesfriendly activities under the Covenant. www.ellisjones.co.uk

Dorset Chamber welcomes our New Members

Dorset Cruises (Poole) Ltd

Poole

www.dorsetcruises.co.uk

Dorset Cruises offer private charters and ticketed events aboard the beautifully restored 1938 vintage motor yacht, Dorset Queen. Event options include, Weddings, Corporate Functions, Meetings, Wakes, Gin Cruises and more.

Reda Lyle Poole

linkedin.com/in/redaabouleishlyle

A Marketing Consultant with 20+ years of experience helping businesses and charities thrive through effective marketing, copywriting, and social media. Storytelling is at the heart of what I do; it is implemented using marketing tactics and driven by data and engagement. Some of those tactics include email marketing, website content, newsletters, to name a few.

New Wave Club

Poole

www.new-wave.club

New Wave Club offers both business and individual memberships across a fleet of 15 Boats and Jetskis, as well as a range of marine based Corporate Events across the South Coast. With exclusive use of our onsite conference room on the edge of Poole Harbour alongside our fleet of boats, it’s a refreshing alternative for entertaining clients or staff.

Pollen Careers

Poole

www.pollencareers.co.uk

Pollen is a careers platform on a mission to make the entrylevel jobs market a more inclusive and equitable space. Through our de-biased hiring solution, we match-make employers with incredible talent from our diverse community of over 3,000 job seekers who we support with the guidance, support and fair opportunities they need to succeed.

Pink Fluff HR Consultancy Ltd

Bournemouth

www.pink-fluff.co.uk

We’re HR with the human touch, that’s not just ticking boxes. Whether it’s navigating daily HR challenges, having the right team or aligning your people to your business strategy, we’ll be by your side with expert HR advice and support.

Poole Communities Trust

Poole

poolecommunitiestrust.org.uk

Poole Communities Trust is a small, local charity with a mission to inspire change and help address disadvantage via: Bringing people together, increasing community participation and improving skills and confidence. Offering greater opportunities for children, young people and families. Reducing the impact of poverty through food support, advice services and access to publicly funded services.

Dorset Chamber welcomes our New Members

The Guildhall Poole

Poole

www.guildhalltavern.co.uk

Located in historic old town Poole the Guildhall Tavern is a two star AA rosette restaurant who have been serving locally sourced fresh seafood and grills for more than twenty years. In addition to the elegant main dining room is the newly launched Yacht Lounge serving exquisite cocktails, fine wines, prestige spirits and tantalising bar snacks for diners and non-diners.

Livewell Dorset

Weymouth

www.livewelldorset.co.uk

We are here for health and wellbeing and to guide you to a healthier lifestyle through free advice and coaching. Do you want to become more active, lose weight, quit smoking or drink less alcohol? Talk to us. We also provide RSPH accredited staff training.

Streetwise HR Ltd

Bournemouth

www.streetwisehr.co.uk

Streetwise HR are HR specialists who make it their mission to support businesses achieve their business goals and to cut through the HR and Legal jargon to provide commercial, straight-talking hr advise and solutions.  We work closely with businesses to devise and implement innovative HR Strategies that are tailored to suit the unique culture, values, needs, and aspirations of their company.

Evomark Poole

evomark.co.uk

Evo Mark Ltd is a dynamic company specialising in innovative marketing solutions and website design and build services. With a focus on leveraging cuttingedge technology and data-driven strategies, they help businesses enhance their online presence and user engagement. Their team of experts collaborates closely with clients to create tailored websites that are visually appealing, functional, and optimized for performance, driving growth and success in competitive markets.

The Priory Wareham

www.theprioryhotel.co.uk

Situated in the market town of Wareham, this is a familyowned country hotel. The Priory retains its heritage as a grand private house and historic monastery with unique, one-off antiques and bespoke interiors.

House Clearance 4 U Bournemouth www.houseclearance4u.com

We provide Home, Office & Commercial Clearance Services to customers across the South Coast area. We are affordable, reliable and take great pride in our work and always deliver great service to both residential, corporate and commercial clients. As a licensed waste carrier with The Environment Agency our services include House Clearance, Office Clearance, Rubbish Removal, Garden & Shed Clearance, Hoarder Clearance, Probate Clearance and much more.

The Hermitage Hotel Unveils

Newly Refurbished Bedrooms

The Hermitage Hotel has just completed a remarkable refurbishment of its bedrooms, showcasing a significant investment in enhancing the guest experience. This exciting update reaffirms the hotel’s commitment to offering premium comfort and luxury to its guests and visitors of the local area, further reinforcing its reputation as one of Dorset’s top accommodation choices.

The newly refurbished rooms, set against the backdrop of the breath-taking Dorset coastline, offer a modern take on classic design. With a serene colour palette and plush furnishings, each room has been carefully crafted to provide a relaxing escape for guests. Drawing inspiration from Dorset’s natural beauty, the design incorporates elements of the surrounding landscape in a very subtle manner, giving guests a deeper connection to the area throughout their stay.

In addition to aesthetic upgrades, the rooms now offer enhanced guest comfort features such as air conditioning, allowing guests to control their own room temperature—an important feature with advanced low consumption technology which ties into the hotel’s commitment to sustainability by reducing overall energy consumption. The Hermitage Hotel has also introduced ecofriendly features such as energy-efficient lighting and the use of locally sourced materials, meeting the growing demand for environmentally conscious travel options, as well as complimentary parking (subject to availability).

Muhammad Malik, the Group Director Finance & Business Support for the hotel chain expressed his excitement about the refurbishment: “We are thrilled to unveil our newly renovated rooms. This investment reflects our commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience, offering a space where visitors can unwind in comfort and enjoy everything that Dorset has to offer.” www.oceanahotels.co.uk

Start-ups Flying High With Business Angels

Innovative entrepreneurs in air traffic control and sports bras won interest from investors at a Dorset Business Angels pitch event.

The early-stage companies secured the support following presentations in front of potential backers and guests at the Ellis Jones Solicitors sponsored showcase in Bournemouth.

Dorset Business Angels (DBA) provides private equity opportunities for high net worth (HNW) individuals and sophisticated investors (SI), bringing them together with businesses and entrepreneurs in the south.

Eight angel investors expressed interest in the Software as a Service (SaaS) air traffic management digital platform for regional and military airports. The business was seeking to raise the remaining £300,000 of a £500,000 target to roll out exciting growth plans.

Seven investors expressed interest in a second company aiming to raise £200,000 to further grow sales of its revolutionary bra for high-impact sports.

Ellis Jones has previously acted for, and supported, an applicant on BBC2’s Dragon’s Den programme. Spencer Turner from Tegstove successfully pitched his cuttingedge camping stove to the dragons and was backed by Peter Jones. Ellis Jones

acted as legal advisor for Mr Turner during negotiations with Mr Jones.

DBA holds pitch events four times a year with five businesses pitching for investment per event.

Its workshop this year aimed to improve DBA close rates with good investment opportunities; have more consistency in the

follow-up process; improve communication with pitchers and interested angels after events; train and support more DBA lead investors, to reduce reliance on DBA directors; and initiate a named group of ‘qualified lead investors’.

www.dorsetbusinessangels.co.uk

Associated Town Chambers

Bridport Business

Chamber of Trade and Commerce

www.bridportbusiness.org.uk

Our mission is to ensure that Bridport provides the ideal environment for businesses to thrive and to supply the goods and services that the town and surrounding area needs to remain economically vibrant.

Bournemouth Town Chamber

www.bournemouthchamber.org.uk

For over 100 years

Bournemouth Chamber of Trade & Commerce (BCTC) has served as the leading voice of business in our communities. Founded in 1916 by a select group of small business entrepreneurs, the Chamber has steadily grown to service Boscombe, Kinson, Moordown, Pokesdown, Southbourne, Wallisdown, and Winton.

Dorchester Chamber for Business

www.dorchesterchamber.co.uk

We play an active role helping to promote local business and enterprise, representing a wide range of businesses both large and small. Our priority is to help our members work together to boost trade. In addition, we are also working with community partners on our Retain & Retrain campaign to promote apprenticeships and similar initiatives to further enhance employability in Dorchester.

Shaftesbury Chamber of Commerce

www.shaftesburychamber.co.uk

The Shaftesbury Chamber has around 100 members from its two business parks and independent High Street businesses. They hold monthly networking meetings and are very active in the development of the town’s economy. Unlike many other towns, Christmas lights and activities are entirely run and paid for by chamber members.

Sherborne Chamber of Trade and Commerce

www.sherbornechamber.co.uk

SturBiz - Sturminster Newton Chamber of Commerce

www.facebook.com/SturBiz

The Sturminster Newton Chamber of Commerce was set up in 2018 and named SturBiz for simplicity. Its mission is to promote and enhance Sturminster Newton and surrounding area’s economy and its businesses and support a thriving and effective business community.

The Sherborne Chamber of Commerce exists to promote its members’ businesses and the wider business community. It has a membership in excess of 150. The chamber is involved in just about every event that takes place in the town, supporting the Sherborne community, attracting media interest and creating a memorable experience for visitors to the town.

Swanage & District Chamber of Trade

www.swanagechamberoftrade.co.uk

We have many ways of helping to promote all businesses in Swanage, the most popular of these is the Swanage Map. This is provided to tourists free of charge through all local hotels and the tourist information centre. As a member, you will be taking an active part in helping develop business opportunities in Swanage.

Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce

www.wpchamber.co.uk

De-carbonisation and Sustainability: What Does It Mean for Your Business?

Rentec Ltd, is hosting the De-carbonisation and Sustainability: What Does It Mean for My Business? event on 21 November. Taking place at its headquarters in Poole it will focus on the transformative potential of renewable energy in today’s business landscape.

As businesses race towards achieving Net Zero, understanding the implications of de-carbonisation is more important than ever. Their expert speakers will delve into how businesses can cut costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and adopt sustainable practices that not only benefit the environment but also enhance their bottom line.

Attendees will have the opportunity to

hear from industry experts on the future of renewable energy and best practices for de-carbonisation, network with like-minded professionals and get insights into financing options, Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), and available grants/funding to support sustainable initiatives

Don’t miss this chance to learn how renewable energy can directly benefit your business and help you stay ahead in a competitive market.

For more information and to register, please book your slot using the following QR code.

www.rentec.ltd.uk

The chamber has been supporting businesses for over 100 years, encouraging and inspiring businesses of all sizes. We’ve helped many people to find their feet in the local business community, by providing an environment where they can connect with likeminded people. In recent years we’ve represented the concerns of businesses to the local councils, contributing to a significant cut in the cost of car parking charges. We played an important role in the establishment of the Weymouth BID, in whose operation we take a keen interest.

International Trade Updates

The British Chambers of Commerce has endorsed the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) focus on services and digital trade as key priorities.

The BCC was part of a record-size UK delegation to the WTO Public Forum in Geneva, where it met with stakeholders from across the globe. Speaking after the event, BCC Head of Trade Policy, William Bain, said: “Services are a UK, and global trade success story, and expanding markets for tradeable services will increase prosperity for UK businesses and the rest of the world.

“On digital trade, we want to build a wider take up of the agreement on Electronic Commerce – currently accepted by 91 countries. This will cut costs and expand opportunities for both developing and developed nations. We need to do more to get other states into the tent on this agreement. “ A digital service export is a service that is delivered across borders using information

and communication technology (ICT) networks. Examples of digital service exports include Software development, IT consulting, streaming, gaming, marketing, financial

services, training and professional services. The World Trade Organization (WTO) reports that in 2023, global exports of digitally delivered services reached $4.25 trillion.

Customs processes on parcels under the Windsor Framework delayed Services and Digital Trade ‘Key to Boosting Exports’

The waiver for Safety and Security declarations on EU imports, originally set to expire on 31 October 2024, has been extended. As a result, these declarations—also known as entry summary declarations for imports—will

The new parcel and freight arrangements under the Windsor Framework, initially set to launch on 30 September 2024, have been postponed. Businesses are now expected to be fully prepared by 31 March 2025.

The government and the EU have reached an agreement on the Windsor Framework, outlining the new requirements for sending parcels from Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) to Northern Ireland.

While the implementation date for the new parcel and freight arrangements has been

delayed, further details on the timeline will be provided soon. In the meantime, businesses should ensure they are ready for the changes by 31 March 2025.

If you transport goods to businesses in Northern Ireland, you can apply for the UK Internal Market Scheme to prepare for these upcoming changes. Additionally, if you handle business-to- consumer, consumer-to-business, or consumer-to-consumer parcels from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, check if you are eligible for the UK Carrier Scheme.

not be required until 31 January 2025.

HMRC encourages businesses that are ready to begin submitting declarations ahead of the new deadline. Further information, including preparation activities for the revised

date, will be provided in the coming weeks.

If you have questions about any of these changes, please contact the International Trade team

international@dorsetchamber.co.uk

Easement of import checks on medium-risk fruit and veg extended

Import checks for products at the Great Britain border will be postponed until next year. The government has extended the temporary suspension of import checks on medium-risk fruits and vegetables from the EU, now set to last until 1 July 2025. Until that date, these products will not undergo import checks or incur associated fees at the GB border.

This temporary measure allows new ministers ample time to thoroughly review the planned implementation of additional border controls and to engage with businesses throughout the import supply chains. Additionally, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has updated the risk classifications for certain plants and plant

products, including the deregulation of some items, following a scientific reassessment of commodities across all risk categories.

As a result, seven commodity groups, including apples and pears, will be reclassified from medium risk to low risk, enabling these goods to move freely into Great Britain from the EU, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. These changes will take effect on 30 January 2025.

Defra will continue its systematic and proactive screening of potential new and emerging biosecurity risks, while also maintaining a responsive strategy to changes in risk levels through surveillance, enhanced inspections, regulation, import controls, research, and awareness efforts.

International Trade Training Diary

Accountants & Tax Advisors

Aims Accountants for Business

Albert Goodman

Arnold Accounting &

Bookkeeping Services Ltd

Azets

Brett Pittwood

Chorus Accounting Limited

Evelyn Partners

Forvis Mazars

FRP Advisory

Hill Osborne

Hunts Accountants Limited

HWB Chartered Accountants

Infinity Financial Solutions Limited

MLW Accountants

Morris Lane

PKF Francis Clark

Saffery LLP

Schofields Chartered Accountants

TaxAssist Accountants BCP

TC Group

Tragor Ltd

Air Conditioning

Universal Maintenance Contracts Limited

Architects

DMW Architects Ltd

Lionel Gregory Architects Ltd

Western Design Architects

Artist

Art Zag

Aviation

DAeCO

Banking

Handelsbanken Bournemouth

HSBC

J.P. Morgan

Bars & Restaurants

Heartwood Collection Britannia

Raymond Blanc

Rick Stein

Rockwater

The Guildhall Poole Limited

The Italian Villa

Thirteen Restaurant

Blinds & Awnings

Ashley Blinds (UK) Ltd

Bookkeeping and Payroll

Milburn Finance

Branding & Design

Blu Inc Graphics Ltd

Brewery

Hall & Woodhouse Ltd

Business Associations

Wimborne BID

Business Coaching/ Consultancy

ActionCOACH Dorset

Chantal Dempsey Coaching

Heartledwellbeing

Human to Human

Imposter Syndrome & Conscious

Leadership Coach

Insight6 - Dorset

J R L Coaching and Consulting

Jane Woods Coaching

KIMCO

Mindsculpt Ltd

Peer2Peer Global Limited

Phil Popham Consultancy

Quarterjack Solutions Ltd

Russell Philips Limited

Sellerly Limited

Smart Quality Services Ltd

The CEO Coach Ltd

Veteran Entrepreneurs

VOLT Consultancy

West Peak

Business Recovery & Insolvency

Antony Batty & Co

Even Keel Solutions Limited

Leonard Curtis

Business Support Services

Acquit Debt Collection and Outsourced Credit Control

BrooksKebbey Limited

Dorset Business Angels

Equilibrium Services

Evolve

FM Strat Ltd t/a Vistage

Foundry UK

House of Risk Ltd

Marketscan Ltd

Winning Tenders

X-Press Legal Services Ltd , Dorset Care

Dormy Care Communities

Upton Bay Care Home

Willow Tower Opco 1 Ltd (Southbourne) t/a Southbourne Beach Care Home

Catering & Catering Equipment

Burbs Kitchen Ltd

Comax Ltd

Molecular Magic Creative Catering Ltd

Chamber of Commerce

Bridport Business Chamber of Trade and Commerce

Dorchester Chamber for Business

Dorset Chamber

Shaftesbury & District Chamber of Commerce (SDCC)

Sherborne Chamber of Trade & Commerce

SturBiz - Sturminster Newton

Chamber of Commerce

Swanage & District Chamber of Trade

Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce

Charity

Age Concern Bournemouth

Age UK NSWD

Autism Unlimited

Bournemouth Foodbank

Bournemouth Sea Cadets & Royal Marines Cadets

Care South

Cash for Kids South Coast

Citizens Advice Bournemouth

Christchurch and Poole

Diverse Abilities

DorPIP

Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance

Dorset Community Foundation

Dorset Mind

Dorset Reclaim

Dorset Wildlife Trust

East Dorset and New Forest Branch of The Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association

Faithworks Wessex

Forest Holme Hospice

Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show

Health Sciences University

HealthBus Trust

Help and Care

Helpful Hounds Assistance Dogs

Hope HTS

Jim Cronin Memorial Fund for Primate Welfare & Conservation

Julia’s House

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care

Lighthouse Poole

Macmillan Caring Locally

Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride

Maddie’s Miracle

MYTime Young Carers

Pavilion Dance South West

Poole Communities Trust

Poole Sea Cadets

PramaCare

Rotary International District 1110

Sexual Trauma and Recovery

Services (STARS)

Talbot Village Trust

The Crumbs Project

The Dorset Cancer Care Foundation

The Power House Poole

The Tank Museum

University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity

Wessex Cancer Support

Wessex Cardiac Trust t/a Heartbeat

Wessex Reserves Forces & Cadets Association

YMCA Bournemouth

Cleaning Services

Clean Deep Services Ltd

The Wright Clean Poole

Construction & Surveyors

Acheson Construction Ltd

Baypoint Surveys Ltd

Composite Profiles UK Limited

Godsell Arnold Partnership Ltd

Graham Garner & Partners Ltd

Greendale Construction Ltd

Harry J Palmer Ltd

Martin Beardsley Limited

Construction Carpentry

MC Roofing Ltd

PC Flooring Ltd

Quoin Property Consulting Limited

Savills

Sherborne Holdings Ltd

Sibbett Gregory

Siteright Construction Supplies Ltd

Spetisbury Construction Ltd

T A Colbourne Projects Ltd t/a TAC Projects

Vail Williams

Construction

Design & Build

Ecosafe Heating Ltd.

Morgan Sindall Construction

Rose Engineering

Stepnell Ltd

Corporate Gifts & Clothing

4Couture.com

The Perfect Source Limited

Wessex Trophies Limited

Couriers & Freight

Forwarding

AOG Worldwide Ltd

Chase Freight Ltd

Schenker Ltd

Cyber Security

SecQuest Information Security Ltd

Day Nurseries

Tops Day Nurseries

Defence

Soverin Technologies Limited

Digital Agencies

Expect Best Ltd

Lightly Salted Ltd

Somer Design

Studio Global

Total Guide to Dorset

Display & Storage

Suppliers

Shopfitting Warehouse

Distribution

Clarendon Specialty Fasteners

De Monchy Aromatics Ltd

Kong Company Ltd

Pam International

Riverside Aromatics Ltd

Tarlu Fulfilment

Education

Authentic Education Group

Bournemouth and Poole College

Bournemouth University

Brockenhurst College

Dont Use

Iron Mill College

Paragon Skills

Skills & Learning

The Bournemouth English Book Centre

The Colleges Partnership

The Global Exec Ltd

Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College

Young Enterprise

Electrical Services

Dextra Group PLC

Mission Road Electrical

Energy Efficiency Services

Omni Management Ltd/Omnium

U4L Ltd

Engineering

A & M Defence & Marine Services Ltd

ABP Technologies Ltd

Amtek Engineering Solutions Ltd

Aviation & Defence Spares

AW Precision Engineering Ltd

Chemring Technology Solutions Ltd

Downhole Tools International Ltd

G K D Technik Ltd

IEC / Alpro Limited

INDUS Engineering Services

Littlemore Scientific Engineering

Modulift UK Ltd

Parvalux Electric Motors

Reidsteel

Safi Valves Ltd

Tides Marine International Ltd

Trident Maritime Systems UK Limited

Ultra Nuclear Ltd

Entertainment

LEDhouse Ltd

Environmental Services & ESG support

Auditel Carbon Solutions

SUEZ recycling and recovery UK

The Master Key Group Ltd

Voice of the Beehives

Event Management & Equipment

BBX Media Ltd

BH Live

CrowdComms

Havencrown Marquee

Cleaning Machines Ltd

Quadrant2Design

Sandpolo Ltd

Export Packing & Freight

John Pipe Limited

Facilities Management

Atlas FM

Financial Services

Baggette & Company Wealth Management Ltd

Birch Financial Services

Blue Sky Financial Planning Ltd

Church House Investment Management

Ebb and Flow Wealth Ltd

First Capital Finance Ltd

Globacare

Investec Wealth & Investment Limited

Lewis & Co (Investments & Pensions) Limited

Life Matters

Peter Harding Wealth Management

SG Financial Ltd

Shield Corporate Finance Ltd

South West Business Finance

Strategic Solutions Financial Services

SWIG Finance

The Lewis Workplace Pension Trust

TheNonExec Limited

Toomey Leasing Group

Watson Wealth Consultancy Ltd

WAY Trustees Limited

Y-Not Finance

Fire & Security

Sentinel

Food & Drink

ABP Yetminster

BV Dairy

Keith Spicer Ltd

La Mia’s Restaurant Ltd

Midas Prosecco

Organix Brands Ltd

Otto Print & Coffee House

The Jordans & Ryvita Company

Funeral Services & Directors

F C Douch & Son (Funerals)

Furniture

G P & J Baker Limited

Graphic Design

Inspiring Heritage Ltd

Green Energy

Rentec Ltd

Health & Safety

Avonwood Developments (Zone Safe)

Fire Door Controls

Health & Wellbeing

Case-UK

DDC Dolphin Limited

Dimond Health & Aesthetic Clinic Ltd

Kestrel Medical Ltd

Livewell Dorset

Living Well Agency

Natural Skin By Lynne

New Horizons Network

Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital

Options Wellbeing - Bournemouth

Poole Therapies and Associates

Limited t/a Poole Therapies

Quantum Chiropractic Ltd t/a Life

Balance Chiropractic Centre

R’eagle minds limited trading

as Freo Wellbeing

Silverstars Care Ltd

Total Therapy

WALX

Zest Lifestyle

Holiday Lettings

Host & Stay

Holiday Parks

Waterside Holiday Group

West Dorset Leisure Holidays

Home Improvements

Rural Ranges Ltd

Southern Softflow

Home Technology

Living Home Technology

Hotels & Conferencing

Bournemouth Carlton

Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel

Captains Club Hotel

George Albert Hotel & Spa

Marsham Court Hotel

Minterne Estate

Oceana Hotels

Queens Hotel & Spa Bournemouth

RNLI College

Summer Lodge Hotel

The Hilton Bournemouth

The Nici

The Priory

Village Hotel Bournemouth

HR

Headland HR Limited

Hillingdon HR

Key HR Solutions

Lumine Development Ltd

Okana Limited

Pink Fluff HR Consultancy Ltd

Purple HR Ltd

Streetwise HR Ltd

ViewHR Ltd

Insurance

A-One Insurance Group

Coleman Marine Insurance

a Gallagher Company

Cornish Mutual

Coversure Insurance (Poole & Weymouth)

Dorchester NFU Mutual

Howden Insurance, Parkstone

MC Warranty Services

NFU Mutual Salisbury and Wareham

The Insurance Institute of Bournemouth

UK Health Insurance

Interior Design

Keeley Fox Commercial Interior Design LTD IT

A B S Computer Systems Ltd

Agilico

Amicus ITS Ltd t/a Aura Technology

C3IA Solutions Limited

Castra Solutions Ltd

ENHANCED

Glitch IT Limited

Grapevine (Telecoms & IT)

Grosvenor Technology Ltd

ITEC Connect Ltd

Keyfort Ltd

Pensar IT

Prodigy IT Solutions

QuoStar Solutions Ltd

Target IT Services

Vizst Technology

X-Net (Services) Ltd

Landscape Services

Horseshoe Group t/a Horseshoe

Landscape Ltd

Lifts Supply & Installation

Bourne Lifts Ltd

Stannah Lift Services Ltd

Technical lift services Ltd

Local Authority

BCP Council

Dorset Council

Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership

Manufacturing

A & E Connock (Perfumery & Cosmetics) Ltd

Abbey Supply Co Ltd

Advanced Instruments Ltd

AlfaTronix Ltd

Ashland Industries Europe

ISP Microcaps UK Ltd

ASMPT SMT UK Ltd

BEST Fittings Ltd

C.C.Moore & Co Ltd

Caleva Process Solutions Ltd

Carlisle Fluid Technologies UK Ltd

Caterpillar Marine Power UK Ltd

CBRNergetics Ltd

CDA Products Limited

Concept Cables Ltd

Confex Technology Ltd

Coty International BV

CT Production Ltd.

Cygnus Instruments Ltd

Darlena Ltd

Dometic Group Ltd

Donaldson Filtration GB Ltd

Electronic Technicians Ltd

Enovation Controls Ltd

Farrow & Ball

Field International Limited

FireSTOP Manufacturing Ltd

Flowbird Transport Limited

Focal Point Fires

Fridgenius Ltd

Get Fresh Cosmetics Ltd

Greens Combustion

Griff IVD Ltd

Hamworthy Combustion Engineering

Honeywell Analytics Ltd

Hydreco Hydraulics Limited

I C Brindle & Co Ltd

Kallo Foods Ltd

Lillidale Ltd

Lotek UK Ltd

Lush Manufacturing Ltd

Magicard Ltd

Marden Edwards Ltd

Marine Components International

Mar-key Marquees Limited

t/a Mar-Key Group

Motion Control Products Ltd

NETZSCH Pumps & Systems Ltd

Packline Ltd

Parker Poole

Penny & Giles Controls

Limited (Curtiss-Wright)

Polyhose (UK) Ltd

Precision Acoustics Ltd

PRF Composite Materials

Primetals Technologies Limited

ProPlastix Limited

R. Hamilton & Co. Ltd

Rotor Blades Limited

Rowland Sandwith Ltd

S K C Ltd

Sargasso Worldwide Industrial Limited

Senscient

Sontronics

Strouden Joinery

Superior Seals Limited

Tecan Ltd

Thompson Valves Ltd

Time & Data Systems International Ltd

Titan Enterprises Ltd

Trimetals Limited

Tyrol Tyre Sealant Manufacturer

Vapormatic UK Limited

Willie’s Cacao

Wyndham Page Ltd

Yunex Traffic

Marine

Actisense

Avon Marina

Fireboy Xintex UK Operations Ltd.

Spot Zero EU Ltd

Marketing PR & Web Developers

b4b Marketing

Caron Khan Consultancy

Darwin Digital Storm

Evomark

Intergage Ltd

Key Digital Agency Ltd

Motley Digital Ltd

Reda Lyle

Runway Growth Consulting Ltd

Strong Social London Limited

The Inspiration Agency

Media & Film

Dorset Biz News Ltd c/o The

Business Magazine Group

Global

Hot Radio

Image Republic Ltd

Kindful Creative Ltd

Plato Video Ltd

Medical

i2r Medical Ltd

Motoring Sales & Servicing

Breeze Motor Group

Chapelgate Motors LTD / TA

Porsche Centre Bournemouth

English Ford (Foray Motor Group)

Ocean Automotive (Poole Audi & Volvo)

OKO Global LLP

SWVA

Networking

Poole Property Club

Notary Services

Paul Wintle Notary Public

Office Equipment Suppliers

Logik Copying Systems Ltd

Office Supplies

Ace Office Environments Ltd

The Business Supplies Group

Patents & Trademarks

Barker Brettell LLP

IP Consult

Photographer

Andrew Plant Photography & Video

SHR Photography

Plumbing & Heating

UFHN LTD

Printing Services & Supplies

Amberley Adhesive Labels Ltd

BCP Media Group Ltd

Harkwell Labels Ltd

The Minster Press

The Print Agency

Xerocad Limited

Removals & Storage

Satori

Goodknight

D

Goadsby

Creative Retail Solutions Kiwi Design

Sector OrganisationName

Security Vanguard Security Services Ltd

Serviced Offices

Venaspace Signage

Bournemouth Sign Co.

Goodwin Graphics

Software/ Cloud Services

INVIDAR Ltd

Lightrise Consulting Ltd

Spyrosoft Ltd

Yammayap

Solar/Green Energy

Clive Lee Solar Consulting

Evolution Solar Services Ltd

Save Energy UK Ltd

W H White Limited

Solicitors

Battens Solicitors Ltd

Coles Miller Solicitors LLP

Dutton Gregory Solicitors LLP

Ellis Jones Solicitors LLP

Frettens LLP

HKLAW

Laceys Solicitors LLP

Lester Aldridge LLP

Preston Redman LLP

Reeves James Limited

Steele Raymond LLP

Trethowans

Woodstock Legal Services Ltd

Sports & Leisure

Adventure Attractions Ltd

AFC Bournemouth

Broadstone Golf Club

Cricket Dorset Ltd t/a Dorset Cricket Board

Dorset Museum

Dorset Wine Festival Limited

Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park

Individuality Swimming Ltd

JM Adventure Ltd

Muc-Off Ltd

Poole Town Football Club (1991) Limited

Sculpture by the Lakes Ltd

Team Building

New Wave Club

Telecommunications

4COM Group Ltd

Buzz Networks Ltd

Citrus Telecommunications Ltd

Comms UK Ltd

Green IP LTD

ITCS (UK) Ltd

Lucid Services Ltd

Telesoft Technologies Ltd

Wessex Internet Limited

Town Planning Consultants

Chapman Lily Planning Ltd

Intelligent Land

Training

Aspire Training Team

Aspirin Business Solutions Ltd

DSTPN

JRS Training

Locomotivation

Micro Nav Limited

Ouch Learning and Development

Sandler Training Dorset

Transport & Logistics

Brittany Ferries

Channel Seaways Ltd

EMA Patient Transport

Great Western Railway

Morebus/Excelsior Coaches

PHVC Minibus & Fleet Suppliers

Poole Harbour Commissioners

PRC Streamline Group

Travel

City Cruises PLC - Poole

Dorset Cruises (Poole) Ltd

R&R Executive Travel Ltd

Utilities

D&A Procurement Ltd

Power Audit.UK

Vehicle Leasing

ElectriX

Vehicle Rental

Abacus Vehicle Hire - Horton Commercials

Workwear

Tower Supplies

Events round up

Gary Neild, Blue Sky Financial Planning, Major Joe Williamson, HM Forces

Lisa Morelli, 4Couture

Christopher Wakefield, YMCA Bournemouth, Phil Sayles, Bournemouth && Poole College

Mark Williams, Rachel Williams, Zest Lifestyle

Dorset Business Expo | 2 Oct | Hilton Hotel

Dorset Business Conference | 9 Oct | Hilton Hotel

Layne Hamerston, Finn Morgan, Vania Roper, Matt Desmier, Rachel Clarke, Ian Jones, Bournemouth University

Laura Bush, Dorset Chamber, Yasmin Brown, Helen Stevenson, Dorset Careers Hub

Lisa Watson-Cook, Lester Aldridge, Amanda Payne, ElectriX

Lester Aldridge

Nuno Almeida, Nourish, Seemin Suleri, Prima, Jacqui Macdonald, Voice of the Beehives, Gareth Sherwood, YMCA Bournemouth., Declan Curry

Lewis Manning Hospice Care

Rose Engineering

Lacey’s Solicitors

West Peak

Lee Cook, Enhanced, Kim Walker, Streetwise HR, Jonny Bush, Enhanced

Krista Cartlidge, MYTime Young Carers, Emily Turgoose, Life Matters, Nicky Busst, HSBC

Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber, Sheena Dayman, Martin Stockley, YMCA Bournemouth

Rory Brokenshire-Trow, Rob Pope, CrowdComms

Helen Stacey, Aspire Jobs, Annalie Briers, Ocean Automotive, Ryan Jupp, A-One Insurance, Alfie Moon, Magic by Alfie

Future Leaders, Challenge to Change, Otto Coffee House

Jessica Toale, MP Bournemouth West, David Burnet, INVIDAR, Kat Freeman, Dorset Chamber

Lester Aldridge

Future Leaders: Challenge to Change | 17 Sept | Otto Coffee House

The VW ID.7 is a new era in the EV saloon market from Breeze VW Poole

The Volkswagen ID.7 feels like a glimpse into the future of driving. From the moment I stepped inside, I could sense that this was no ordinary large saloon. The sleek, modern design instantly sets it apart, but the real magic lies in its impressive 330-mile range. For me, that’s the ultimate peace of mind—knowing I can hit the road for a long drive without constantly worrying about finding a charging station.

Once I got moving, the smoothness of the ride really took me by surprise. There’s something almost surreal about how quiet the ID.7 is on the road. The real standout for me, though, was the regenerative braking feature. It allows you to drive with just one pedal for the most part,

which felt not only futuristic but also incredibly convenient. The system recharges the battery as I decelerated, blending eco-friendliness with real-world practicality.

What impressed me even more was how agile the ID.7 felt for its size. You’d think a large saloon would feel heavy, but it doesn’t. The sharp steering and adaptive suspension make it genuinely fun to drive, whether I was cruising on the dual carriageway or winding through country lanes. It’s nimble and responsive in a way that a large saloon shouldn’t be.

Starting at £51,550, the ID.7 is a luxury vehicle that redefines what an electric saloon can be. It’s not just about zero emissions or innovative tech; it’s about a driving experience that feels effortless and refined. For anyone looking to make the switch to electric, the ID.7 is a compelling option and even more so now that VW also make an Estate version.

www.breeze.co.uk/volkswagen