South Devon Business Excellence Awards 2015 by DCMedia

2 HEX-E01-S5

Creating a landsCape for business

TDA is proud to sponsor South Devon Business Excellence Awards 2015

One of the key aims of the TDA, as Torbayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic development company, is supporting local businesses at every stage in their development.

Starting a business

For those looking to start a business there is a wide range of support available including help with writing a business plan, accessing finance and finding business premises. New Enterprise Allowance offers free business sign up support to anyone receiving benefits. Access to business start-ups loans up to the value of ÂŁ7,500. South West Business Centres provide workspace for new businesses to start up, develop and grow in addition to managed workshubs.

Future workshops

Selling for the first time? 18th March at The Harbour Works, Torquay Making a start with social media in business 21st April at Brixham Sea Works Ready to export workshop 12th May at The Harbour Works, Torquay Finance for non-financial managers and owners 22nd May at The Harbour Works, Torquay

Growing a business

Creating a marketing message that generates new business 29th June at The Harbour Works, Torquay

Access to Finance offers help for businesses in sourcing and applying for finance.

Workhubs

For growing businesses there are regular workshops on a range of topics such as finance, skills, recruitment and export.

South Devon Export Network provides advice and collaboration opportunities with companies experienced in export. One-to-one business advice is available with an experienced business advisor; email enquiries@tedcltd.com

The Harbour Works in Torquay and the Sea Works in Brixham offers desk space in a creative environment, free of distractions. With private meeting rooms, high speed WiFi and printing facilities. Visit www.theworkstorbay.com to find out more.

Contact 01803 208369 Email enquiries@tedcltd.co.uk Visit www.torbaydevelopmentagency.co.uk Twitter @TorbayTDA

In association with

Celebrating best in South Devon

HE BIGGEST night of the year in the local business world — the eighth South Devon Business Excellence Awards —promises to be a night to remember. Judges for the awards found it as tough a task as ever to choose the winners with so many companies who have increased their tur nover, sought out new markets and launched innovative new products some sold all over the world. Short-listed companies and our associate partners and sponsors will be celebrating the success of the short-listed companies at the gala evening at the Riviera International Conference Centre on Friday, March 27. There are 11 categories: Best Apprenticeship

Employer category; Most Innovative Company; Best New Business; Best Green Business; Best Customer Service; Best Sales and Marketing Campaign; Best Social Enterprise/ Community Impact; Best Business Growth; Best Leisure/Tourism; Young Entrepreneur; Exporter of the Year; and Best Apprenticeship Employer. Category sponsors are: First Great Western, Genting Casino, Kitsons Solicitors, Outset , Pavey Group, South Devon College and South Devon Export Network. Also in association with Blue Cross. The headline partner is Torbay Development Agency and Torbay Council. Herald Express editor Jim Parker said: “The awards have grown and grown and this year is

no exception with a record number of entries. It just shows the resilience of South Devon’ business community which boasts firms, organisations and people who have tasted success through sheer hard work, determination, enthusiasm and an inspirational drive to make things happen when times aren’t exactly easy. “The awards are there to recognise that success and the judges have certainly had their work cut out. Thanks to them and the continuing support from our headline sponsors, the Torbay Development Agency and Torbay Council, our category sponsors and all those who have entered. It promises to be a fantastic night.”

Judges looking ahead to the awards ALAN DENBY: Director of Economic Strategy for the TDA TORBAY Development Ag ency works with businesses of different sizes across Torbay and the wider South West, to understand what is important to them. Through our close and constant relationships with our customers, TDA knows the variety, strength and aspiration of the businesses across South Devon. We are proud to sponsor the South Devon Business Excellence Awards. Celebrating the successes we experience as a business community is vital, and with world leading companies, this evening is all about celebrating success and achievement. TDA is also an award-winning provider of business support services, offering face to face advice with accredited advisers, workshops and networking events. We are part of the GAIN Growth Hub so you can be assured that you will always be able to connect with a partner who can help develop your business further. Working at the heart of the local business community, we are supporting manufacturers, high tech businesses, the fishing sector, care homes and all manner of businesses. To find out how we can help your business grow, please telephone us on 01803 206369 or please email enquiries@tedcltd.com

Jim Parker

Sir Richard Ibbotson

JIM PARKER JIM is Editor of the Herald Express. He is in his 37th year with the newspaper. He joined as a senior reporter and has progressed through the ranks as crime reporter, deputy news editor, news editor and assistant editor before being appointed editor almost four years ago. He is passionate about the Herald Express and the part it is has to play at the heart of the South Devon community. Working in partnership with the local business c o m m u n i t y a n d re c o gnising and celebrating the many success stories within it is paramount to that relationship. SIR RICHARD IBBOTSON SIR RICHARD was appointed Chair of the Trust in June 2014 shortly after retiring as Admiral in the Royal Navy. His naval career included periods as Commodore of Britannia Royal Naval College, Commander British Forces Falkland Islands and, most recently, Deputy Commander-in-Chief Fleet (effectively Chief Operating Officer of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines). As well as being

Helen Harman

knighted for his services, Sir Richard is a Companion of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath and holds the Distinguished Service Cross and the NATO meritorious service medal. He also holds other public roles, as a Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Devon, Governor of Plymouth University and Chairman of the Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity and was a Member of the Armed Forces Pay Review Body. HELEN HARMAN HELEN joined Outset Torbay as Programme Director in October 2010 and recently became the Chair of Torbay Community Development Trust. She previously worked as Chief Officer for East Devon Council for Voluntary Service, where she was responsible for the day to day management of a regional charity, including internal a n d e x t e r n a l p ro j e c t s, budgets, staff, attracting funding and partnering with organisations such as the Big Lottery Fund, Devon County Council and the Primary Care Trust. Prior to that Helen worked for a company that delivered Welfare to Work

Tim Godfrey

programs on behalf the Department of Work and Pensions, Jobcentre Plus and the European Social Fund. As the Operations Manager she managed over 80 staff across six offices in Devon and Cornwall and was responsible for the scheduling and delivery of all contracts. Helen led the South West to become the highest achieving during her time at the company. Helen has also worked with unemployed and disadvantaged clients, moving them toward employment, education and training related goals. S i n c e j o i n i n g Y T KO Group she has been instrumental in the setup of Outset in Torbay, which has required contacting and building relationships with partner organisations, marketing the project across the area, involvement in working groups and enabling staff to deliver Outset to the people of Torbay. TIM GODFREY TIM is a partner in Bishop F leming Chartered Accountants and has lived in Torquay all his life. Tim is also the vice-chairman of Torbay Business Forum and is passionate

Category sponsors and in association with

Mark Holbrow

about ensuring Torbay capitalises on the delivery of the South Devon Link Road. He is also a trustee of Torbay Advice Network a small charity providing benefits training to local voluntary organisations and is on the Torbay Retail & Tourism Business Improvement District Task Group. Married with three children Tim recognises the need to provide the work/ life opportunities for future generations to entice them to stay local. MARK HOLBROW MARK is from Spirent Communications and represents the Torbay Hi-Tech Forum. Born in Brixham and a life-long proud resident of Torbay, his 25-year professional career has concentrated on the innovative design, development and successful commercialisation of electronic test equipment. His current position is director of R&D Engineering for Spirent Communications’ Positioning business (www.spirent.com), which is based in Paignton. In that role he is responsible for the technical team

Lynne Parker management, new product design and future direction of Spirent’s portfolio of world leading navigation system test solutions. He says: “I’m looking forward to bringing that combination of skills and experience to the judging panel of the 2015 Herald Express Business Awards.” LYNNE PARKER LYNNE is business development manager, at Choice from Funeral Partners. She was bor n and bred in Paignton and a ‘few years down the line’ she continues to live there. She has worked in the Bay for over 30 years, previously working for over 20 years at a local tourist attraction in both the accounts and fundraising departments. Her current role is business development manager for Funeral Partners, a national chain of over 80 funeral homes nationwide that includes four branches in the Torbay area and one branch in Dawlish. Within this position she helped launch the Choice funeral plan which is now being sold in all branches across the country and has proven to be extremely successful.

Headline Partner

HEX-E01-S5

Supporting businesses throughout the Bay

HERALD EXPRESS BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2015

4 HEX-E01-S5

HERALD EXPRESS BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2015

In association with

Distinguished guest speaker T

2015 In association with

‘I speak for all the judges when I tell you it was hard to prioritise, occasionally humbling to realise just how much commitment people are making to enterprise in the area, and absolutely fascinating to see the diversity and breadth of our business community, which reaches out literally the world over’

HE main speaker at the Herald Express South Devon Excellence Awards is Sir Richard Ibbotson, who was appointed chair of the South Devon Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Trust in June, 2014. He had recently retired as Vice Admiral in the Royal Navy. He served as Deputy Commander-in Chief Fleet. He said: “I am new to this annual business awards process. Jim Parker assembled an eclectic group of us together a while back to go through the judging. “I speak for all the judges when I tell you it was hard to prioritise, occasionally humbling to realise just how much commitment people are making to enterprise in the area, and absolutely fascinating to see the diversity and breadth of our business community, which reaches out literally the world over.” Sir Richard’s long and distinguished naval career covering 38 years included periods as Commodore of Britannia Royal Naval College, Commander British Forces Falkland Islands and, most recently, Deputy Commander-in-Chief Fleet (effectively Chief Operating Officer of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines). As well as being knighted for his services, Sir Richard is a Companion of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath and holds the Distinguished Service Cross and the NATO meritorious service medal. He also holds other public roles, as a Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Devon and Chairman of the Royal Navy Royal Mar-

1991 for which he was awarded the DSC for mine clearance under enemy fire. He went on to command the Plymouth based frigate, HMS Boxer, before joining the Directorate of Nuclear Policy at the Ministry of Defence. He became Staff Operations Officer to the Commander United Kingdom Task Group during the Bosnian conflict, serving both ashore and in the Adriatic, and was present during the withdrawal from Hong Kong in July 1997. Promoted to Captain in 1997, he became commanding Officer of the frigate HMS Beaver as well as Captain of the 1st Frigate Squadron and then served as Acting Director of the Directorate of Operational Capability at the Ministry of Defence, before becoming Commander of British Forces in the Falkland Islands in 2002. He was appointed Commander of the Standing Naval Force in the Atlantic Ocean in 2003, conducting anti terrorist operations following 911, and commanded the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth in 2004.

GUEST SPEAKER: Sir Richard Ibbotson ines Charity and he was a Member of the Armed Forces Pay Review Body. He spent most of his career at sea, and was a Navy diver for some 30 years. Sir Richard was given command of the mine countermeasure vessel HMS Hurworth before serving in the Gulf War in

He went on to be Naval Secretary in 2005, with a promotion to Rear Admiral on 23 June. He was appointed Flag Officer, Sea Training in 2007 and Deputy Commander-in-Chief Fleet in 2009.

Local band ready to entertain 2015 With thanks to our headline partners and sponsors

F YOU ask anyone in Torbay who their favourite local band is... I think 3 Bags Full, or 3BF as they’re known, would be mentioned several times! 3BF regularly play the local music circuit as well as providing the backing track for many happy wedding parties across the South West. The band is made up of Barney Dine, Dean Mancey and Angie Dine. Lead singer and guitarist Barney Dine has a proven track record in the music industry, right back to his days with Dr Frank and the Thin Line Groovers, later forming the local cult sensation Daddy Mango and now enjoying the live music scene with 3BF together with his

wife Angie who regularly steps up on Bass guitar. The multi-talented drummer Dean Mancey is on percussion, guitar and vocals. 3BF play a mixture of contemporary tunes and rock classics in their own rocky, funky style and have earned themselves a solid reputation with fans and local musicians alike. If you want to see 3BF, you can usually catch them at The Spinning Wheel in Paignton on Wednesdays and The Offshore in Torquay on Thursdays. All booking enquiries to: luke@ immaculatepromotions.co.uk

MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANY AWARD

Sponsored by

MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANY AWARD sponsored by Pavey Group

Pet Nature

Plastic Surgeon

ET NATURE is a pet shop that stocks natural healthy and nutritional food and treats. It was set up by Gemma Belcher who said: “ I was made redundant and after the initial panic of being out of work decided to turn a negative into a positive and start a business. “We specialise in natural healthcare for pets and, wherever possible, have a herbal and natural alternative. We have advisers such as a Dr of Marine Biology, a specialist in Ornithology and a qualified animal behaviour and welfare specialist. “We have never, and will never sell animals.” She has given a local cat rehoming centre their own window space. Gemma’s shop has been pioneering in stocking an holistic pet food and she will be launching her own brand of dog food and small range of natural cat toys later in the year. LASTIC SURGEON provides a cosmetic repair service for r e n d e r, p l a s t i c , glass, wood, ceramic, metal, brick, stone, marble and granite. The company has expanded from being a one-man band to become the UK’s largest and only national provider of the service, operating seven regional teams across the UK. The service today is the result of a Management buyout in 2008. As the MBO was finalised the recession hit UK house building and the directors realised they had to adapt their product to new markets in order to survive. The business was restructured as the focus shifted from house build to construction. The company continues to strengthen commercial partnerships and has secured significant forward business. The work to broaden the customer base also continues at a pace and the company has made significant gains in the housing, construction, insurance, facilities management and cruise line sectors. The company is financed entirely by its shareholders with no bank debt. IRTUAL JET CENTRE is a Flight Simulator company using a self-build replica Boeing 737-800 Simulator offering a number of income streams. The core business is the provision of Professional Pilot Training courses. The secondary businesses are corporate events, fear of flying and flight experiences. The centre is open seven days a week with a potential

Virtual Jet Centre - Andy Wilkins

V David Sutheran of Westcountry Direct

for it to run on a 24-hour basis. Andy Wilkins explained: “When I was offered redundancy from Thomson airways, after nearly 20 years’ service, I took this golden opportunity to realise my dream of building my own training centre. The flight experience is available to most ages, except for the very young, and appeals to all genders. The experience will also assist students in deciding on a career path in aviation. “Our philosophy is to educate the future generation. Groups of schoolchildren are invited to visit the centre and

we also provide work experience for individual students.” E S T C OU N T RY DIRECT is a dedicated tradeonly distribution business with the primary purpose of building a distribution network throughout the South West for food and drink producers. David Sutheran said: “We specialise in seeking out small artisan producers from the Westcountry. We then support them through increased sales and new routes to market. This allows the producers more time to do what

they do best, make great tasting products. The retailer then has a one-stop shop and the ability to order from a single source point. “We had a rapid growth curve doubling our initial year one forecast. We are on target to double that again in year two. We are looking at a purpose-built unit for 2016 which will bring further employment to Devon. We have taken on a sales supervisor and have plans to expand the contract delivery side of the business, too, in 2015. Beyond that we have plans to franchise the business throughout the UK.”

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency DEADLINE EXTENDED to noon on Friday, February 27 2015

Enter now! 2015 In association with

Friday, 27th March 2015 at The Riviera International Conference Centre

To nominate simply go to www.torquayheraldexpress.co.uk/businessawards and submit your entry for one or more of the following categories: • Best Tourism/Leisure Award • Most Innovative Company Award • Best New Business Award • Best Green Business Award • Best in Customer Service Award

• Best Sales and Marketing • Best Social Enterprise/ Community Impact Award • Business Growth Award • Best Apprenticeship Employer • Exporter of the Year Award • Young Entrepreneur

Category sponsors

HEX-E01-S5

Companies with innovative ideas

6 HEX-E01-S5

BEST NEW BUSINESS AWARD

Sponsored by

New businesses aiming to grow BEST NEW BUSINESS AWARD sponsored by Outset

LUEBIRD CARE T O R B AY w a s opened in April 2014 by newly married husband and wife team Emma and Alexander Allan. Bluebird Care in Torbay analysed the market place, planned and successfully rolled out a new operation which has exceeded all of its own ambitious targets. The growth has been facilitated by a dynamic marketing and community engagement strategy resulting in a recognisable brand. The business opened in April 2014 and eight months to December turned over just

under £180,000 (65 per cent higher than hoped) and January’s annualised turnover being £340,000. The company employs 14 care workers and three fulltime office staff looking after a total of 38 customers. Alexander said: “The business focuses on the training and retention of quality staff, charging and paying the appropriate rates for quality and engaging with sector partners to improve the wellbeing of vulnerable people in the community across Torbay and Totnes.”

LOSSY AND JIM is run by single parent Lynette Jordan. She started the business after graduating from Plymouth University with a BA (Hons) in Illustration. Lynette started with a small business loan and with help and support from Outset Torbay. She said: “I have managed to take my business from a few small commissions to a contract in America for a series of children’s books and cartoons. I have also launched my own range of merchandise and sell my products throughout the UK. “I feel my business is

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency

Proud sponsor of the ‘Best New Business’ award

Could you be your own boss? Now there’s an idea. Outset Torbay is a FREE business start-up support service. We can help you: • Develop your ideas, skills and confidence • Get your business up and running • Plan and prepare for business growth • Get access to finance

To sign up for support, call 0800 032 2905 or to find out more, visit www.outsettorbay.co.uk

unique and making people happy. I think I have proved to a lot of single parents that you can live the life you want, you are in control of your own path and you can spread happiness on to others. “Flossy and Jim is on a mission to make the world a brighter, lighter and more amusing place to be – not just for children but for adults too. In the business world, especially, things can be very serious... we want the chance to change that. Business can be fun and colourful.” AS TE RC LA SS E D U C AT I O N (SW) LTD was for med in November 2013 and is a recruitment agency sourcing teachers across Devon for short and long-term vacancies as well as permanent members of staff. Glen Northover said: “We are a small company that focuses on the individual needs of our teachers and matching them to the needs of schools. We meet all our teachers during our vetting procedures and we are regular visitors to the schools we deal with. Keeping costs low is always a priority. In the last 12 months we have gained regular business from over 35 schools. In 2014 Masterclass Education (SW) LTD had a turnover in excess of £200,000. “We opened our doors in November 2013 and we believe we have a very stable, ethical business that is not run on the basis of profit but for the long term benefit of schools and teachers across South Devon.” HINNERS BRIDGE G A R D E N M AC H I N E RY w a s for med in March 2013. It sells, services, repairs and provides parts for garden machinery, ground care and golf course equipment. It also provides machinery for hire. David Mann said: “After 18 months we moved to larger premises giving us more space for stock and a better laid out workshop helping inc r e a s e p r o d u c t iv i t y. I n November 2013 we were approached by Kyoeisha UK, which distributes a range of golf course equipment called Baroness, to provide sales and service across Devon. “This quickly followed with our first significant sale, a large Fairway mower to Dainton Park Golf Club. We are now servicing and supplying spare parts for the range of products to many different customers across Devon. “Our original business plan just included me and my business partner. We did not envisage taking on staff or apprentices quite so quickly.”

Bluebird Care, Torbay

Flossy and Jim

Masterclass Education (SW) Ltd

Shinners Bridge Garden Machinery

BEST GREEN BUSINESS AWARD

Sponsored by

Understanding customers’ needs BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD sponsored by Genting Casino

ARTINGTON HALL is a social enterprise of The Dartington Hall Trust, offering facilities for corporate events, weddings, leisure breaks and dining at the award-winning White Hart bar and restaurant. It has an induction programme for starters which, in addition to mandatory training, includes a video induction by Dartington Senior Managers around its values, a tour of the venue and extensive product knowledge training. Karen Jonas said: “We took on board customer feedback

concerning the food and service in our restaurant, The White Hart. We have completely reviewed the concept and are now serving the very best local and seasonal produce through a more concise quality menu. As a result of this change, customer feedback has been incredible and the improved produce and service has been recognised with three accolades in the last 12 months.” A Service Charter has been developed as part of its customer care policy with Carol Carpenter Training to ensure customers are looked after consistently.

OUTH DEVON COLLEGE is a medium sized Further Education College. As part of its provision, it offers free, impartial advice and guidance to students and members of the public through its award-winning Helpzone service. This long standing commitment to providing the community with infor mation relating to careers and education at all levels pre-empted a renewed governmental focus on the availability of such guidance. The Helpzone service suppor ts its 13,000

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency

TORQUAY

learners each year, as well as members of the public. Jessica Tucker said: “The information the Helpzone team provides covers all aspects of education and training, and is focused on ensuring customers ultimately achieve employment. “Some of the support the team offers includes advice on funding, transport information and help with CV writing or UCAS applications for universities across the country. A full range of support is available in order to remove the barriers to learning for all in the community.” PLASHDOWN Waterpark@Quaywest, is a g reat day out for family and friends. Jon Lees said: “This year has been a very busy year for us improving the park and developing new products all led by feedback from our customers.” He said that in response to local hotels asking for a more family friendly evening event, it has created the Splashfamily event for the summer. Spectators asked for more seating and sun loungers, so it has built a 120-bed sun lounge area. Groups asked for an easier admission system, so it has created a dedicated group point, within the new reception layout. Other changes have included improvements to the steel work, plant machinery, storage areas and café. And its appearance has improved with all the outside steel painted, improved changing rooms, redesigned reception area and more customer friendly signage. HE CARY ARMS – known as the ‘Inn on the Beach’ – exudes charm, fun and all the values of a good English inn with the style and comfort of a boutique hotel. It has g reat seaside gastro-pub dining, is family friendly (including the dogs) complemented by chic rooms and cute cottages. Guests can relax with a YonKa massage and spa treatment, a picnic down on the beach or a table on the terrace for lunch and dinner. It has employed more fulltime staff and supervisors to ensure the level of service is at a high standard. It continues to hold morning meetings to ensure everyo n e i s aw a re o f g u e s t s, bookings, events, problems or achievements of the day. The weekly Sales & Marketing Meeting is attended by all senior staff. Menus are constantly looked at and revised. It recently gained the AA Breakfast award and receives good reviews on TripAdvisor.

VI VISIT V THE HE H E CASINO CA C TO EN ENTER THE E N T E FREE FRE E DRAW RAW A WITH THE GOLDEN TICKET DRAW EVERY FRIDAY

GRAND FINAL SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST Play our Slots and Live Games or enjoy our restaurant for extra chances to win your golden ticket entry to the final To ǌnd out more visit gentingcasinostorquay.com or call 01803 294901 to speak to a member of the team. Car supplied by Marsh Kia of Exeter. For Terms and Conditions please see poster in-club.

Genting CasinoTorquay

@Genting CasinoTorquay

5 Abbey Road Torquay TQ2 5NR ©LW

Dartington Hall

South Devon College

Splashdown Waterpark@Quaywest

The Cary Arms

BEST SALES AND MARKETING

BEST SALES & MARKETING

Dartington Hall

Inter-line Building Supplies

Living Coasts

ARTINGTON HALL is a conference venue, with an overall capacity of 1,700, and has also become an established wedding venue. More recently, it has been exploring the Chinese market and been on successful sales international missions. In addition, it is in contact with inbound agents in London, including China Holidays. Karen Jonas explained: “Currently we have one FIT Agreement in place and we are anticipating at least a further five at International Luxury Travel Market Asia in June 2015. We have also been actively promoting Dartington Hall and the South West to 30million Chinese viewers through a Chinese travel show.” Dartington Hall has also engaged with Chinese social media, WeChat and Weibo, and is formulating plans to initiate a Mandarin page on its own website. NTER-LINE BUILDING SUPPLIES is an independent builders’ merch a n t , d i s t r i bu t i n g building materials to the trade and DIY sectors. Mike Lewis said: “We are a family-run business with, we are told, a ‘big reputation’. That reputation has been built around the customer and the high level of service we offer. We will always look at further investment within the business which will only improve and enhance our current offering.” The company is currently re-developing its website and is active on all formats of social media. He said: “We have also recently launched a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system. This is used by the commercial sales team for capturing data about existing and potential customers. “Also this year we will be launching our new quarterly sales brochure. This is an investment for us in purchasing special offers from our suppliers so we can pass this on to our customers.” IVING COASTS is an all-weather attraction located on T o r q u a y h a rbourside. Following analysis of visitor research, it identified a number of strategic objectives that needed to be reflected within the marketing plan. Katherine Sobey explained: “Visitors were surprised at the array of different species on display. An executive decision was made to add the strapline “Zoo & Aquarium”. Since re-branding, we have identified a steady increase in visitor numbers.”

ENNYWELL FARM has approximately 70,000 visitors each year. It identified a potential problem when new legislation was brought in preventing families from taking children out of school during term time. Valerie Bickford-Beers explained: “We noticed we had an increasing number of young adults visiting without children, so we brought in students from the University of Plymouth studying tourism to identify potential new markets. “Our aim was to make sure we did not see a drop in visitor

numbers. Using research from the university students and our own visitor surveys, we knew that Pennywell had the facilities to offer great days out for adults, we’d just never packaged it and marketed it before. “We concentrated the campaign on students and young adults. Research suggested social media was the best way to target that market but we also wanted to back this up with a grown-up version of the Pennywell leaflet. “The campaign was over two years with a budget of just £5,000.”

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency

Pennywell Farm

Living Coasts is an active member within the local community including TTRBID, Beacon Quay Traders’ Association and the Harbour Users’ Group. It sought ways to engage and unite local businesses. Events were selected as the best avenue to achieve this with the mutual benefits of reaching new audiences and increasing footfall. As a result of other initiatives, website statistics have shown a steady increase in traffic, there has been an increase in Facebook likes and levels of engagement and positive reviews on TripAdvisor.

English Riviera & South Devon

To uris m

lity a t i sp Ho & Aw

015 2 s d r a

Entries open May 2015 For more information please contact the events team events@dc-media.co.uk

HEX-E01-S5

Changing world of marketing

In association with

Groups helping the community BEST SOCIAL ENTERPRISE/COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD in association with Blue Cross

ISHSTOCK BRIXHAM is a one day seafood and music festival that takes place in Brixham each year. Sarah Ready said: “T he impact the event has on the community is vast. It brings together people who would otherwise be isolated through lack of social engagement. “Many of the volunteers have health difficulties and the participation is beneficial to them in supporting their own mental health. “The event does, of course, raise valuable monies for the Fisher men’s Mission which is

ploughed back into the community.”

ANNAHS AT S E A L E - H AY N E supports over 800 people with a range of disabilities, and their families, and last year welcomed over 100,000 visitors. Among its facilities is an on-site Health and Wellbeing Centre with hydrotherapy pool, sport physiotherapists and beauty therapists, a farm providing animal care experience and a hor ticulture garden, where guests accessing services learn to grow produce and then harvest it to use in the on-site Bistro. The site employs 130 people of which 30 per cent have a

She added: “It has a large footfall on the day bringing tourists from across the globe to join the local community to celebrate the event and to celebrate the heritage and culture of fishing and its industry. “Businesses have record sales locally on the day, hotels and guest houses have increased bookings, the English Riviera is promoted through the event nationally and inter nationally.”

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency

C A L C AT S

disability. In the last year, it has introduced a range of accessible accommodation including glamping cabins. There is also a gallery where it showcases and sells work by local artists and houses national touring exhibitions. It also hosts a programme of workshops and art classes. Hannahs is also a venue for live music and events and the state-of-the-art music rooms hold daily music sessions. H E 1 6 - 2 4 WO R K C L U B , K I N G SBRIDGE was started in 2012 through a direct request from Job Centre Plus to Spiritulized YFC, a local Christian charity passionate about making a real dif ference to young people. Sha Hard explained: “Our local young people are disadvantaged due to issues including transport especially the outlying areas such as Hallsands and Galmpton. Our innovative projects and programmes are designed around meeting real local need. “We welcome all young people, aged 16 to 24, who may find themselves, for any reason, unemployed, not in education or training. “We provide free, nonjudgemental, one-to-one personalised help via our group of volunteers. After induction, they receive training in areas including Safeguarding, Youth Mental Health, First-Aid, Brief interventions in substance/alcohol abuse, relevant government requirements for JSA applicants and human resource management.” OC (originally known as Robert Owen Foundation) is a re gistered c h a r i t y wh i c h s u p p o r t s people (aged 18+ or who are in transition) with learning disabilities and similar needs, and their circles of support. ROC’s major achievements are: ■ Championing Care in the Community for 25 years to develop a charitable organisation caring for more than 400 people with a learning disability. ■ Growing to become an employer of 388 staff (256 FTE) at a turnover of more than £6million. ■ Upholding the rights of people with a learning disability. ■ Receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating from the new CQC quality inspection. ■ Championing Workplace Inclusion. Through Work2Work, ROC is creating a bridge that brings people with a learning disability and employers closer in understanding and partnership.

There are lots of homeless cats at your local Blue Cross rehoming centre in desperate need of a happy home! Whether you’re a single person or a family, if you could give a cat in need a home we’d love to hear from you! Visit us online or at our centre for for more information about rehoming and the pets in our care.

Torbay rehoming centre Ashley Priors Lane, Watcombe, Torquay, Devon TQ1 4SE Tel 0300 777 1550 www.bluecross.org.uk/torbay Sick, injured and homeless pets have relied on us since 1897 Registered charity no: 224392 (England and Wales), SC040154 (Scotland)

©LW

Fishstock Brixham

E E N

SD-7025-0614

HEX-E01-S5

BEST SOCIAL ENTERPRISE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD

Hannahs at Seale-Hayne

The 16-24 Work Club, Kingsbridge

ROC

BUSINESS GROWTH AWARD

BEST BUSINESS GROWTH AWARD

Amtek Plastics Ltd – Stewart Little, managing director, (left) and Mark Amphlett, sales and marketing manager

Eliminate Risk

Hannahs at Seale-Hayne

MTEK PLASTICS LTD offers the complete solution for high volume Plastic Injection Moulding, including product concept design, injection moulding, tooling, manufacture, assembly and packaging. In the past year it has had a sales growth of 44 per cent, an increase in enquiries of approximately 900 per cent and a 266 per cent increase in visitors to its website. It has obtained ISO 9001:2008 accreditation and added a night shift to its operation so it now runs 24-hours a day. Mark Amphlett explained: “We manufacture plastic moulded products to the highest quality as efficiently as possible, ensuring our customers receive the very best service and product fulfilment. “We offer more than just a plastic moulding service, providing the perfect solution to developing, innovating and growing a customer’s product portfolio.” LIMINATE RISK is a security company striving towards the pursuit of excellence offering services such as stewarding, doorstaff, event security, static guarding and a K9 dog unit. Ian Stone said: “The team is made up of individuals that combine to bring together a wealth of knowledge and experience to create the perfect platform to successfully build and sustain a large security company.” One of its most high profile jobs was the security contract for the emergency works at Dawlish when the railway line went into the sea. This year it is supplying security teams to a number of festivals including Glastonbury and the Isle of Wight Festival. Eliminate Risk was recently audited by the British Standards Institution (BSI) for approval to be listed on the Security Industry Authority Approved Contractor Scheme (SIA ACS) and following successful completion of the audit, it now holds Approved Contractor status in the provision of door supervisors, security guarding and key holding. ANNAHS AT S E A L E - H AY N E set out on a venture in 2014 to adapt buildings on-site to help create accommodation to help families and those in need as well as diversify and expand its sources of income. The plan was to provide two accessible glamping cabins and a comfortable, homefrom-home, family apartment whereby a family could enjoy activities on-site, supported

being Centre and outdoor pursuits. OLLEN MICHELMORE SOLICITORS offer a range of legal services throughout Devon which have won regional and national acclaim. Clive Meredith said: “Our passion for our business is built on two principles – giving a quality service to our clients and building personal relationships in which we will go the extra mile.” Among its achievements are: ■ It has grown from one office and 50 staff to six offices and 135 staff in seven years.

■ Turnover is up from just over £2 million to £5.5 million in the same period. ■ Three new departments added to the services we offer in non-accidental injury, clinical negligence and financial planning with a combined turnover of £490,000 in the last financial year. ■ It has been recognised by external bodies for the quality of the work it offers winning many awards. ■ Its growth has enabled it, in the last three years, to support many local initiatives and charities in Devon, contributing over £100,000 of financial support to various causes.

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency

Chris Hart, CEO of Wollen Michelmore Solicitors

by experienced staff. The Trust predicts income to grow by £400,000 from April 2014 to March 2015. The accommodation has been 85 per cent full and it has seen an increase in income across the site as a result. Income in the Bistro in January 2015 alone was double that of 2014 at £18,000 and the availability of accessible accommodation, combined with conferencing facilities on-site, has led to a 52 per cent increase in the number of residential event bookings. Areas across the site have seen a similar increases including the Health and Well-

2015 In association with

Friday, 27th March 2015 at The Riviera International Conference Centre For tickets email events@dc-media.co.uk or call 07802 451897 Category sponsors

HEX-E01-S5

Success leads to firms expanding

12 HEX-E01-S5

BEST TOURISM/LEISURE AWARD

Sponsored by

Taking care of visitors’ needs BEST LEISURE/TOURISM AWARD sponsored by Kitsons Solicitors

ISHSTOCK BRIXHAM is an urban seafood and music festival that takes place each year in Brixham, in September, known nationally and internationally. It has a large footfall on the day bringing tourists from across the globe to join the local community in celebrating the event and to celebrate the heritage and culture of fishing and its industry. Businesses have record sales locally on the day, hotels and guest houses have increased bookings and the English Riviera is promoted through

the event both nationally and inter nationally. Fishstock is also a group t h a t u n d e r t a k e s e ve n t s during each year in order to promote the fishing industry, raise monies for the fishing industry and to support the associated services linked within the community that spin from the fishing, its heritage, culture and related activities. It also raises money for the Fisher men’s Mission, a charity that runs to support the welfare of fishermen. It is an essential part of the local tourism for the Bay.

IVING COASTS is Europe’s only coastal zoo which is home to a wide array o f m a r i n e s p e c i e s f ro m around the world including seals, penguins, auks, fish and otters. It provides visitors with a unique experience to view the animals both on land and underwater. Visitors can even walk among the penguins and watch all of the animals feed. Katherine Sobey said: “As well as being a diverse visitor attraction, Living Coasts is an education, scientific and conservation charity dedicated to protecting our global wildlife

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency

heritage and inspiring in people a respect for animals, plants and the environment. Our vision is – a world rich in wildlife and wild places. “We are leaders in our field of conservation and conservation advocacy. As a good and responsible zoo, we are members of the British, European and World associations of zoos and have won numerous awards for our breeding and conservation work. “Every penny we make goes back into developing the zoo and our conservation work.” PLASHDOWN WATERPARK@QUAYWEST is the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from big kids to little ones, with exciting flume rides and some of the English Riviera’s most spectacular views, right next to Goodrington Beach – a winning combination. Jon Lees said: “We are contributing to the local economy by running events and activities, bringing visitors to the area. “Splashdown is a very innovative company and we are always looking for ways to improve our products and services. We have made a signif i c a n t nu m b e r o f improvements to the park, based on the feedback from customers.” There are six catering outlets and a large catering team all trained in-house to achieve the Basic Food Hygiene certificate. Staff, where required, undertake the Pool Plant Qualification and First-Aid qualifications. OTNES RARE BREEDS FARM is a small, family-run tourist attraction which focuses on promoting and conserving rare breeds of farm animal as well as promoting the protection of British wildlife. It provides a hands-on and personal experience for people of all ages and abilities. Samantha Adams said: “We are only a small farm and the perfect size for young children. Because we are so small, we can give visitors a one-toone personal experience to make sure everyone gets the most out of their visit. “We are very interactive, with our knowledgeable volunteers always keen to help out and answer questions. “It’s a very hands-on experience too as we encourage visitors to meet and touch the very friendly animals. We have a wide range of animals, from guinea pigs and pygmy goats to donkeys and owls. “We rely strongly on our dedicated volunteers, without whom we could not keep going.”

Fishstock, Brixham

Living Coasts

www.kitsons-solicitors.co.uk

01803 202020

advice@kitsons-solicitors.co.uk

Splashdown Waterpark@Quaywest

Totnes Rare Breeds Farm

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR

Sponsored by

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR sponsored by First Great Western

Tori Addy of GrayAreasLtd

Melanie Chalk of Portobello Salon Ltd

Daniel Maddock and his wife Madona of the family business DWM Mortgages

ORI ADDY is operations director of a group of three homes with a staff of 114 and a turnover of approximately £2million. The family-run business – GrayAreas Ltd – o pe rate s three care homes in Torbay: ■ The Kingsmount Residential Home – a Dementia residential home in Oldway ■ Mount Olivet – its flagship home, a general nursing home in Preston and ■ Torre House, a specialist Dementia residential and nursing home in Chelston. Tori said: “Not only am I professionally and personally involved in our homes but I want to act as an ambassador to any career-driven young person in the Bay considering their options and to recommend a profession in care. “It is so rewarding and there are so many different jobs available. I started, some 12 years ago as an accounts assistant and within the last year, on top of holding down a high-pressured job, I completed my AAT Level 3. E L A N I E CHALK is a director of Portobello Salon Ltd – a boutique style hair salon in Torquay town open seven days a week. All stylists are trained to NVQ Level 3 and apprentices receive training in-salon and through South Devon College. Melanie said: “I think starting a business during a recession and at a young age demonstrates ambition. I am pleased to say I have grown my company enough to support myself and am thankful for the opportunities I can provide to my staff and apprentices. “Success and determination is what provides me with the energy to manage the salon and staff seven days a week, a busy column of clients, the website and social media, all administration and staff training. “Having just celebrated our third anniversary, the business is doing better than ever and we have been able to recently redecorate. We are looking into expanding further into the beauty sector.” A N I E L M A DDOCK started DWM Mortgages in 2011. It is a ‘whole of market’ independent financial advisory firm that focuses on mortgage and protection advice for clients looking to purchase or remortgage residential, buy-tolet and commercial properties. Daniel said: “I started at a challenging time for most businesses but especially for the financial sector. I set the

almost five times in less than two years.” OMINIC ROTT set up Street Motion – the first freerunning academy in Devon – after graduating from university in Reading and moving back to Devon. The dedicated indoor training facility is the only one of its kind in Devon/Cornwall. He said: “My goal was to create a world-class indoor parkour/freerunning training facility for young people in South Devon. From humble beginnings of just one class per week we now deliver over

15 classes a week across five towns and cities in Devon.” Dominic added: “I’d always planned to go into business as that is what most of my family had done. I took a big gamble with a very niche contemporary sport on the basis it was making a big impact in London. It started at the height of a recession, but has made a profit every year. I am now about to start my fifth year in business.” Dominic launched an online shop in December 2014 to sell its own branded clothing, merchandise and event tickets.

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency

Dominic Rott of Street Motion

business up on my own with no external funding or help.” As well as locally, Daniel markets his financial services in areas such as London and the South East. He said: “This has led to a huge increase in enquiries and the number of mortgages I arrange per year has over tripled since marketing to these areas. As the areas I am marketing to are generally more affluent areas than Torbay, the average value of the mortgages I now arrange are over 55 per cent more than they previously were. The combined effect of this is an increase in tur nover of

St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall

Houses of Parliament, London

The Shard, London

The Brisons, Cornwall

BE A GREAT WESTERNER. First Great Western is proud to sponsor the Herald Express Business Awards. Discover over 270 destinations this spring at firstgreatwestern.co.uk

HEX-E01-S5

New ventures for entrepreneurs

14 HEX-E01-S5

EXPORTER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Sponsored by

Excelling in markets abroad EXPORTER OF THE YEAR AWARD sponsored by South Devon Export Network

OVELL RUGBY/ LOVELL FOOTBALL is the world’s largest online store offering rugby boots, clothing and equipment to over 150 countries. It also operates a soccer website focusing on football boot sales with the unique proposition of offering personalised boots at no additional cost. The company started as a brick and mortar high street sports retailer known as Bob Lovell Sports. In 2004, it moved solely online and focused on rugby clothing and equipment and rebranded the company as Lovell Rugby.

Lovell Soccer was launched in 2008. Steve Willicott said: “We focus our proposition on quality products at good value with excellent customer service. “By staying focused in our existing categories (rugby and soccer) and by targeting specific international markets such as France and Spain, we now offer a fully translated version of our websites with improved carriage pricing and French and Spanish customer services teams working in-house. “The French market is proving particularly strong with us achieving over 200 per cent

increase in revenue following the launch of lovellrugby.fr. “Other international trade continues to grow with over 25 per cent of our orders now going outside the UK.” He added: “I believe we have shown determination and innovation in targeting international markets enabling us to further our international brand and offer something to these destinations which is not available to them from their own countries.”

CARLETT ENTERTAINMENT is one of the only destination entertainment specialists in the world. It provides entertainment loc-

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency

Sell Global – Think Local

The Award Winning The South Devon Export Network

Proud sponsors of

Wednesday 27th May 2015 5.30pm – 8.00pm Torre Abbey, Torquay, TQ2 5JE

Featuring China Why attend? • Discover the opportunities which China has to offer • Latest support on exporting available • Real business case study presentations • Experience great business networking

About China • China is the world’s second largest economy • It grew by 7.4% In 2014 • Population of over 1.357 Billion • Over 400 million internet users

How can it help me? • Boost your business • Maximise your global potential • Unlock opportunities

www.torbaydevelopmentagency.co.uk/sden follow us on Twitter @TorbayTDA

ally for a range of events and around the world from product launches and corporate events to exclusive weddings and luxury private parties. It was set up by Rebecca Marks and her brother Ben with just five acts – including a local singer from South Devon - and a website they had built themselves. By April 2011, when the business was officially launched, Rebecca and Ben decided to specialise in international entertainment and events after realising there was a gap in the market. Scarlett Entertainment is now involved with around 1,500 events annually in more than 50 locations around the world from Dubai and Brunei to Beirut and Greece. A relatively new business, it has already amassed an impressive list of high profile clients and brands that staff have worked with including Formula 1, A-list celebrities, Middle Eastern and Asian Royalty, Hollywood Films and International Film Premieres. Scarlett Entertainment has one of the largest act rosters of any UK entertainment agency, representing more than 6,000 acts around the world. Scarlett Entertainment has overcome many obstacles. One of the biggest problems faced by a business that deals with international performers and clients is language barriers. The company has attempted to overcome this through employing international interns and staff members. Staff speak a total of 10 languages. It also offers work placements to students from around the world and has had the privilege to work with people from France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland and Russia. It now has ongoing links with the Training Partnership in Torbay and the Totnes European School. Amy Capron said: “Scarlett Entertainment has indeed flourished since its creation and launch, thanks to the hard work and dedication of all involved in the growth of the business. The annual turnover has roughly doubled year on year.” “In order for Scarlett Entertainment to move forward, the business is looking to open offices in new locations around the world. Plans are currently underway to open new offices in Las Vegas and Singapore in 2015 in order to maximise business opportunities within these markets and compete effectively. “Up to 20 new websites are set for launch this year. The plans include a separate website for each country location where Scarlett Entertainment supplies entertainment.”

Lovell Rugby/Lovell Football

Rebecca Marks of Scarlett Entertainment

BEST APPRENTICESHIP EMPLOYER

Sponsored by

BEST APPRENTICESHIP EMPLOYER sponsored by South Devon College

H Hair Advice Centre. Apprentice Shannon Bolton with Chris Foster

Healthwatch Torbay

A I R A DV I C E CENTRE (HAC) is a hairdressing salon in Kingsbridge. It has a Five Star Salon status in the Good Salon Guide and has been a regional finalist in the prestigious British Hairdressing Aw a r d s a n d B r i t i s h Hairdressing Business Awards. The HAC Hair and Beauty team is led by Salcombe-born Sara Antoniades. Lucy Wallace said: “We wholeheartedly take on board t h e a p p r e n t i c e s h i p p r ogramme, working closely with the hairdressing team at South Devon College. We find apprentices increase productivity, keep costs low, and it is fabulous to watch their skills develop. Sarah recently volunteered to plan a hair show at SDC. Lucy added: “I believe updating our skills and on-going development enhances the team’s talents. We believe that apprentices should be invested in and given every opportunity to develop their skills. Both internal and external training is necessary to bring the best out in people.” E A L T H WAT C H TORBAY is a charitable organisation and Torbay’s independent consumer champion for health and social care. It collates and analyses public feedback on health and social care services such as hospitals, doctors, dentists and care homes and ensure it is listened to and acted upon by both the providers and those that commission the services. Simon Culley explained: “As the business grew, so did our administration needs. In summer 2014 we discussed the need for an apprentice. In September 2014 we hired Jack Watts as our new administration apprentice. Following initial training, he has turned into an invaluable asset to the organisation. “Jack now organises all patient bookings, meeting requests and staff diaries; and is a much-liked, front-facing first point of call on the public reception desk of our Paignton Library Walk-in centre.” P I R E N T C O M M UNICATIONS is a leading manufacturing organisation focused on GPS and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) test and measurement solutions, based in Paignton. The company hires placement students from local universities and also graduate students and in 2014 took on its first apprentices. It currently has three who are well on their way to completing their qualifications

with the support of on-the-job training and mentoring. Its apprentices work in the manufacturing, electronics and HR departments. All three attend day release courses at South Devon College and spend the remaining days on site at the Paignton offices. Spirent provides a high level of support to allow hands-on experience, backed up with the knowledge passed on from experienced staff. Its flexibility as an employer also allows time for each apprentice to work towards their qualification with time to complete assignments.

OUTH WEST WATER is part of Pennon Group plc and provides high quality drinking water and waste water services throughout Cornwall and Devon and in small areas of Dorset and Somerset. In 2010 it was identified that almost half of its operational workforce would retire over the next 10 years and it needed this to be addressed. Rachel Brewer said: “Our technical roles require very specific skills and it is rare to find these in the general recruitment market. Instead we developed a structured, com-

pany-wide apprenticeship programme to recruit talented young people locally and help them learn from our experienced staff as they embark on their new career. “Our 25 year business plan sets out a target to see a yearo n - ye a r i n c re a s e i n t h e number of apprentices employed” and apprenticeships feature as a key element of our People Strategy. “We have also focused on promoting diversity, recruiting our first female operational apprentices. We now have six female apprentices in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) roles.”

Thanks to our headline sponsors

Torbay Council and Torbay Development Agency W:135.014mm H:170.018mm

Spirent Communications

S South West Water Ltd

Sell Global – Think Local The Award Winning The South Devon Export Network

Proud sponsors of

Wednesday 27th May 2015 5.30pm – 8.00pm Torre Abbey, Torquay, TQ2 5JE

About China • China is the world’s second largest economy • It grew by 7.4% In 2014 • Population of over 1.357 Billion • Over 400 million internet users

How can it help me? • Boost your business • Maximise your global potential • Unlock opportunities

www.torbaydevelopmentagency.co.uk/sden follow us on Twitter @TorbayTDA

HEX-E01-S5

Apprenticeship opportunities

ProtectingYou You and Protecting and YourBusiness Business Your

We protect you and your business, from the initial review of your requirements Bespoke insurance and financial solutions We protect you and your business, from the initial to ensuring you are sufficiently covered. Our claims team will be there for review of your requirements to ensuring you are Fully managed claims service you should the unthinkable happen, managing your claim professionally and sufficiently covered. Our claims team will be there Dedicated teams for business and protecting interests forefficiently you should the unthinkableyour happen, managingthroughout. your claim professionally and efficiently protecting

Bespoke insurance your interests throughout.

personal needs

and financial solutions Top 100 Independent Broker in the UK

Fully managed claims service Good luck to the finalists of the 'Most Innovative Company' Award Dedicated teams for business and personal needs Top 100 Independent Broker in the UK To arrange a review of your insurance call us on

01803 652 000

Proud to Sponsor the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Best Community Contribution' Award

Offices in Torquay and Exeter.

To arrange a review of your insurance call us on

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

www.paveygroup.co.uk

01392 880 000 Insurance & Financial Services