Asian Wealth Magazine Winter 2014 Issue

THE LUXURY BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR ASIAN ENTREPRENEURS

Vol. 3

Issue 1

February 2014

movers & shakers UK ASIAN WEDDING INDUSTRY

Darshana Ubl

THE Madhu’s LEGACY

MAKING A GLOBAL IMPACT

STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS

Also in this issue

My business:

The Chohan brothers

10 of the best business apps ● The UK economy in 2014 ● Entrepreneurs: born or raised? ● The UK glass ceiling ●

REVIEW: KPMG Dinner £4.99

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Contacts THE LUXURY BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR ASIAN ENTREPRENEURS

Vol. 3

Issue 1

PUBLISHER Kalpesh Patel kp@media-36.com

February 2014

movers & shakers UK ASIAN WEDDING INDUSTRY

Darshana Ubl

THE Madhu’s LEGACY

MAKING A GLOBAL IMPACT

Also in this issue

The Chohan brothers

● ● ● ●

10 of the best business apps The UK economy in 2014 Entrepreneurs: born or raised?

The UK glass ceiling

Design & Art Direction Christine Sullivan Photography Sanjay Jogia Phil Bourne

STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS

My business:

EDITOR Jo Shorthouse jo@media-36.com

REVIEW: KPMG Dinner £4.99

Cover Sanjay and Arjun Anand (Madhu’s) Photography Eyejogia.com

Asian Wealth Magazine is the UK’s first and only luxury business magazine for asian entrepreneurs, business leaders and professionals. published quarterly and distributed nationally, AWM caters for a generation filled with high-flying, motivated and inspirational professionals who pride themselves in being creative and able to enjoy life and it’s pleasures in and out of the office.

Each issue comprises of profile interviews, Q&as with British asian entrepreneurs from up and comers to high-net-worth successful business individuals.

Each issue is also packed with thought provoking business related articles, current affairs and dedicated sections for luxury travel, automotive, event previews and reviews.

Enjoy.

AWM is published by

Digital Marketing Manager Nemash Patel Editorial Contributors Keeley Bolger Joe Minihane Melissa Stewart Shaz Memon Aneesh Popat Nima Suchak Pinnacle Advisory Services The Sethi Partnership Farida Gibbs Varun Sharma TiE UK Advertising Abby Ghafoor ag@media-36.com T: +44 (0)7748 983 331 Ash Krishnan ak@media-36.com T: +44 (0)7852 415 625 Office Support Team Beenta Patel Hema Patel www.AsianWealthMag.co.uk for all enquiries, please contact +44 (0)20 8406 8992 or email info@media-36.com

© Asian Wealth Media Ltd Suite 4B, 43 Berkeley Square Mayfair, London W1J 5FJ United Kingdom ISSN 2051-9230

AWM – Official Publication for:

All Rights Reserved No copy without the written consent of the publishers first given, can be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condtion or in any unauthorised cover, by way of trade, or affixed to or as any part of a publication or advertising, literary or pictorial matter whatsoever. Asian Wealth Media publications are fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed wholly or in part without permission. Every possible effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this publication is accurate at the time of going to press and neither the publishers nor any of the authors, editors, contributors or advertisers can accept responsibility for any errors or omissions, however caused. No responsibility for loss or damage occasioned to any person acting, or refraining from action, as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the editors, authors, the publisher or any of the contributors or sponsors.

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Editor’sLetter

GIVE KIDS A SPORTING CHANCE A rECEnT ArTIClE APPEArInG In ThE lonDon EVEnInG STAnDArD hIGhlIGhTED a Muslim football agent’s desire to attract more professional players of Asian descent into the beautiful game.

Solicitor Shehneela Ahmed tells the paper that she hopes to inspire parents from Asian backgrounds to be more encouraging if their children express a desire to go into sport, rather than professional careers such law or medicine.

This wish is shared by our cover star this month, Sanjay Anand of Madhu’s. In our interview he questions why more Asian families don’t believe in Asian businesses, instead preferring their children to find a suitable career path in something stable like dentistry or accountancy. read the full interview on page 16.

The Football Association is also planning a campaign to recruit more potential pros from the Asian community. recently the only Asian Premier league star, Swansea City’s neil Taylor defended the sport, which has had its fair share of racist controversies, saying that there were no limits within the game, no matter what your race. neil is only one of four Asian players in four football divisions.

We only have to look within the British Asian community to see the passion that lies within in it for the sport. Baljit rihal, a football agent and entrepreneur, is the founder of the Asian Football Awards, an organisation that seeks to recognise and honour those that are involved in paving the way for Asians in football, and those that have found success in the game. Its most recent awards were held at Wembley Stadium in october 2013 and attended by ex-players such as Gary lineker and Ian Ayre, the managing director of liverpool FC. It is organisations such as these that should have the full support of the Asian community. And it is events such as these that ensure that if young people want to be professional players, the gates are open and the playing field is even.

Editor of Asian Wealth Magazine

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CONTENTS

10 10 A perfect pitch for success Darshana Ubl discusses her passion to help small businesses and being a young woman in global business.

16 Standing on the shoulders of giants Jo Shorthouse meets the father and son team working together to cement the Madhu’s legacy.

25 The web game Shaz Memon takes a look at a creative way to engage potential customers with content marketing.

26 Publisher’s diary 30 Entrepreneurs: born or raised?

Three businesses discuss if business is in the genes.

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16 32 The UK glass ceiling AWM takes a look at the UK’s complex tax system and cultural attitudes to find out why it is that us resilient, innovative Brits are trailing behind.

37 Fortune Footsteps In his last column, The Chocolatier tells us about his business’ journey in the last three months.

44 49 Wonder Women!

Farida Gibbs shares her secrets to success in business.

51 Shall we meet around the table?

The Sethi Partnership discusses the imperative to sit around the negotiation table before launching legal action for the good of all businesses.

43 The Bookkeeper EU in or EU out? Building a business abroad

54 What does 2014 have in store?

As the dust settles on a rather gloomy 2013, we take a look at what lies ahead this year for UK businesses.

44 From finance to fine dining The Chohan brothers ‘desserted’ the City to set up their own luxurious pudding brand.

57 Will they stay or will they go?

As the argument for Scottish independence heats up in the months

39 Business NEWS

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VOL3 ISSUE 1

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60

94

ahead, what could businesses and investors in Scotland expect from a standalone state?

82 On the Road Motoring in opulence with Mercedes Benz.

60 Movers and Shakers AWM profiles nine of the most prolific suppliers to the UK Asian wedding industry.

86 Bask in the luxury of Barcelona Varun Sharma revisits one of his favourite cities and discovers that you are never alone in this magnificent Catalan city.

Look out for the next edition of AWM.

94 A night to remember AWM talks to Asian Awards founder Paul Sagoo to find out what 2014 holds for the event.

The ONLY Magazine to be distributed on all seats at the Asian Awards 2014.

98 Event review and pictures

For more information, please contact the team at info@media-36.com

77 Entrepreneurship as a profession of choice Attitudes, activity and growth aspirations are key drivers to a successful career as an entrepreneurs, says Sanjeev Ahuja.

80 10 of the best business apps Whether you’ve got an iPhone, iPad or Android device, there are a plethora of apps to help make business a breeze.

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101 Business directory

next Edition

112 Upcoming events

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a pERFECT pITCH FoR

success

t

Darshana Ubl, UK CEO of Entrevo, shares with Nima Suchak her passion to help small businesses and her journey as a young woman in an international arena.

hE SPArKlE oF ChrISTMAS IS A DISTAnT MEMory, and many are in the drudgery of the January slump. But not Darshana Ubl, the london-based businesswoman has just returned from a three-week holiday in South Asia and is raring to go.

And the world is definitely her oyster.

Darshana is the CEo of Entrevo in the UK, and has supported businesses and entrepreneurs in various cities around the world.

She is currently writing her first book, detailing what she has learned by interacting with entrepreneurs around the world and how to get into the right mindset to become a high achiever.

Born and raised in India, 34-year-old Darshana has relocated 16 times. her lifestyle has offered plenty of change and opportunity to travel, which she believes has empowered her to adapt swiftly to ever-changing environments.

Growing up, her mother taught her that beauty lives for a short time, but capabilities and intelligence last a lifetime. Taking these words to heart, Darshana went to Pune to study Economics and enjoyed a spot of modelling while she studied.

While she studied for her Masters in Economics she worked nights in a call centre, working 8-10 hours, five nights a week, getting paid a mere £100 a month.

“When I look back, I feel I was able to come a long way through that. I worked nights alongside my Masters for nine months until my body couldn’t take it anymore,” says Darshana. “life can be tough if you don’t have a game plan. you need to work towards it and plan what you’re going to do. Think of your life backwards and design it forward,” she adds.

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Armed with a Masters in Economics and a Post Grad Diploma in Advertising and Pr, Darshana began her career in media as a radio presenter, hosting three shows a day. her producer noticed her talent and told her that she was capable of much more. “I loved what I did there, but I was interested in the business side of things, which I felt was very exciting.”

Darshana’s dreams stretched beyond the country she was born in and so she ventured overseas. “I was up for a challenge, I had a lot more to see and wanted to explore living and working in a different culture.” her life changed when she joined MediaCorp TV in Singapore as an account manager responsible for bringing in new television advertisers.

The first few months were absolutely brutal, but she was ready for it. “you could be out of the job within two months if you didn’t achieve the monthly sales revenue target, but it was an exciting time,” she said. Within six months, Darshana clinched one of the biggest six figure deals for her company, getting SingTel to invest in a children’s channel. “In MediaCorp TV, I was at the top of my game, but long hours and increased responsibility was making me Singapore-bound, so I knew I had to make a switch and learn something new.”

At 27, she took a job at Xl, a company that worked with entrepreneurs, where Darshana could have a bigger impact. It proved to be a good move when she was promoted to become the general manager, looking after the Xl events business. “I grew the licensing business from Singapore to Japan, Australia, Indonesia, new Zealand, USA and the UK. The experience of learning how business is conducted in different parts of the world proved to be invaluable.”

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“Think of your life backwards and

design it forward”

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In 2010, Darshana relocated to England for personal reasons and it proved to be the ideal opportunity and location to start her own business. “The move to london was daunting, but I knew I wanted to start a business. I analysed an opportunity in the fast-growth “groupbuying” business model.” With the emergence of digital media and the new group-buying model adapted by companies such as Groupon and living Social, Darshana saw an avenue to service small businesses and give them a new and effective marketing channel that charged on results. She went on to set up her first sole venture, Lyncmeup.com, a daily deals site that helped entrepreneurs promote their products without an upfront fee. The essence of the business was to link small businesses to the end consumer through the emerging power of the internet.

“The first year was challenging to say the least and the costs in london were high,” says Darshana. “With so many people joining across 42 cities in the UK and with more than 900 promotional partners, I very quickly got to know a lot of people.”

By the second year, lyncmeup.com was a powerful player, and was eventually sold in 2013 to a competitor. After having exited her first business, Darshana was ready for a new challenge in the UK and joined Entrevo UK, a fastgrowing company that organises training for entrepreneurs and business leaders in the UK, US, Singapore and Australia.

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t the core of Entrevo is the Key Person of Influence Growth Accelerator (KPI) which trains small, established businesses to become more valued and respected in their field.

“We’ve intensely trained over 500 businesses in the UK alone, with more than 6,000 business owners attending one of our Brand Accelerator Events in london.”

Participants come with the aim to not only learn, but more importantly, implement. “Increasingly in business, we have an overload of information, but not enough implementation. This stifles growth. The KPI Programme creates deliberate and focused action around five core areas. It’s all about focused implementation.” she says.

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DARSHANA’S TOP TIPS FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS

1

SPEND TIME DEVELOPING YOUR PERFECT PITCH Clear communication is essential. If you don’t have an amazing pitch, regardless of how great your product or service is, you will be overlooked by potential customers or partners.

2

PUBLISH YOUR IDEAS Publishing attracts fresh opportunity. Publish your ideas.

Write blogs. The pen is mightier than the sword and there is a lot of gravitas when your work is published.

3

CREATE A PRODUCT ECOSYSTEM One of the fastest ways to create a breakthrough in your business is to move beyond thinking about individual products and services and begin to develop a product ecosystem.

4

BE BOLD You need to raise your profile. What do you want to be known for? Have a game plan and become known for what you’re doing.

5

THINK OF LONG-TERM ASSETS Diversify your investments. Do your research and look for opportunities in emerging areas.

Darshana is inspired by women in business that balance their personal and work lives. She is well aware of the double standards women sometimes have to face to succeed. “The world has moved on to become quite equal, yet women have to break through the glass ceiling to earn their stripes. Women have to go the extra mile to be taken seriously.

I’ve always had to take small steps forward. Support replenishes and nourishes me and challenge makes me stronger,” she says.

She believes that being in business is not only about making money; it’s about solving a problem. Business is about bringing something of value to your customers, having a good team, and creating opportunity not just for yourself but also for others. A good business gives people a sense of enthusiasm, purpose and fulfilment.

Darshana refers to the entrepreneurial ‘sweet spot’ when people work in an optimal way by doing what they love, are good at it, and can get handsomely rewarded for it. “If you have these things along with health, love and a community in your life, you’re in your sweet spot,” she says. “When you operate from that space, you will create wealth and prosperity for yourself and others around you.” referring to herself as a ‘Karma believer’ she believes that what goes around comes around. She goes out of her way to help someone once a week. “It’s easy to lose sight of how lucky you are and so it’s a good reminder to share or do something selflessly for others.” keypersonofinfluence.com/uk

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g

STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS

Äąants of

In every family business there comes a time when the new generation starts to influence company direction.

Jo Shorthouse meets the father and son team working together to cement the Madhu’s legacy.

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Photographs by Eyejogia.com

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ITTInG In ThE nEW MADhU’S rESTAUrAnT, ThE PlACE IS BUZZInG with window fitters, cleaners, and new staff members learning the ropes as existing employees discuss the many details that have to be considered before the grand opening (of which there are three, plus a blessing) in a week’s time.

I’m here to meet the men behind the Madhu’s brand, Sanjay Anand and his son, Arjun. As I sit waiting for them to arrive I hear Arjun checking with his bar manager that enough martini glasses and whiskey has been ordered for the young professionals opening party in a five days – his dad is not invited to this particular opening, he tells me with a smile, this is just for the new generation of partners, potential clients and friends.

Sanjay arrives late but has a very good reason for his delay, he has been at harrods choosing the placemats for the new restaurant, he explains. Someone else could have done it, he says, but I had an image in my head and had to get it myself for my peace of mind, he chuckles. The new 140-seater restaurant is opening at the Sheraton Skyline along heathrow’s Bath road. After owning and expanding the existing Southall restaurant for the last 34 years, it is only because of the energy and enthusiasm of the company’s young new director, Arjun that this second restaurant is opening at all. his father is content with the incredible success that Madhu’s has experienced since 1980, when a 17-year-old Sanjay opened the doors of this now-legendary restaurant with his 16-year-old brother Sanjeev and mother, Krishna, in the kitchen and his father as chief Pr. The family had moved to Southall in 1972 from nairobi when Sanjay’s father, Jagdish Kumar Anand, decided to make the

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move to keep his family safe. It was a huge wrench; the family had been incredibly successful in East Africa. Sanjay’s grandfather, Bishan Das Anand, owned nightclubs and hotels, all named Brilliant. When the businesses were nationalised the family were given the option to leave or take Kenyan citizenship. With the recent events in Uganda fresh in their minds, the family chose to move to the UK and leave their life of luxury for the safety of British shores.

They came to Southall with enough money to buy a house but little else, Sanjay smiles sadly when he recalls his mother having to do her own washing, and work in a factory. Soon the family re-established themselves as entrepreneurs and began cooking delicious recipes from their garage to supply the swelling community of East African Asians that had recently moved to the UK. The recipes used in the garage in the 1970s are the same ones used in the Madhu’s restaurants today – the original recipes of Sanjay’s father and grandfather – Punjabi food with a unique East African twist.

When the demand for these recipes became too much for the family to accommodate, Sanjay decided that opening a restaurant was the best way to grow. With only the house they lived in as security for a bank loan, it was on his 21st loan application that Sanjay was successful, albeit paying 22% interest, 7% above base rate for the privilege. his uncle’s family had opened a restaurant in Southall, also called the Brilliant, which was always full. “I thought, even if we only got the overflow from my uncle’s restaurant, we’d be successful,” he recalls. So with these small ambitions and lots of excellent recipes in hand, the 30-seater Madhu’s Brilliant (rebranded Madhu’s in 2004) was established. The name Madhu is in honour of Sanjay’s

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father’s nickname, it means sweet honey.

The restaurant and outside catering business quickly flourished because of sheer hard work (for which there is no substitute, Sanjay tells me while softly fixing me with his blue-eyed stare). In 1989, on Arjun and his twin sister’s first birthday, the company undertook its first wedding at a large hotel. The success of this (despite the hotel worrying about the smell of curry) and subsequent events meant that 23 years later outside catering makes up 80% of Madhu’s revenue.

Madhu’s was the first Asian caterer to establish partnerships with large hotels; it was also the first Asian caterer to cook at Windsor Castle for Prince Charles and the British Asian Trust.

Undertaking up to six weddings a day in peak season, Sanjay still makes it a rule to visit every single event personally, to ensure the chefs are working well, congratulate the bride and groom and, of course, thank the person that paid the bill. This type of respectful business etiquette runs through the Madhu’s business mantra.

“My dream has always been to be number one in the outside catering business,” says Sanjay. “If someone asked me if I had the best Indian restaurant, I’m not sure if I could put my hand on my heart and say yes, because there are so many good restaurants around. however, in the outside catering business we are by far the best in the country.”

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any of the members of staff have worked there since it began trading, it is a family. Many of the waiters and chefs call Sanjay “Dad”. he proudly tells me that he has only ever had to fire four people. “Three because they stole from me and one because he was just totally incompetent,” he explains. The company employs more than 60 chefs and over 350 part-time staff, all trained exclusively by Madhu’s. For the new staff at the Sheraton, it has taken two weeks to be fully trained on the food and drinks menu. once employed at Madhu’s, you are in the family for life, if you choose to be.

“I’ve really learnt from my father how

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“once employed by Madhu’s,

you are in the family for life, if you choose to be”

to treat staff,” says Arjun, “it’s the most important thing. you’re only as good as the staff you have around you.” Several generations have worked at the company.

Sanjay feels a great responsibility for the livelihood of his employees and their families; this is why he has been happy with the steady growth of the company to date. you certainly would not describe Sanjay as a risk taker. Even though Madhu’s the brand is very recognisable, he likes to think of it, and portray it, as a small, easily-accessible company. over the years, he has only allowed for 10% growth every year. “If I had wanted to go from £6m to £8m in a year I could have by taking risks, but I feel the weight of responsibility for my staff. We have only ever expanded because we’ve been busting at the seams,” he explains. The company only works with 18 hotels, 16 of which are in heathrow and london.

“We do not overcommit to anything else.

We look after our partners and we don’t overgrow, because we’re looking after the most important day of someone’s life.

We cannot let that person down, ever,” Sanjay explains.

Despite this reluctance to grow rapidly, Sanjay Anand is a recognisable face among the Asian business elite – and not just because of his sharp suits and pencil-thin moustache. he is a patron of the British Asian Trust and was awarded an MBE in 2007 for services to the UK hospitality industry. he is a brand ambassador for Jaguar. When Sanjay talks, people listen, but his son will be even more successful, he tells me confidently. “he’s the kind of person that’s liked by everyone, from the kitchen porter to our general manager. he’s liked by every client, he doesn’t throw his weight around and he’s very polite and humble. Those are attributes that I don’t have, and for those attributes I think he will do better than I have,” says Sanjay. The likeability factor is definitely present when talking to Arjun; he talks quickly and with passion about the business. he spits out ideas about the future of the company, and ripples with energy and excitement.

“I still close more deals than him

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“I think there is a misconception that

the younger generation

should aim for occupations

like doctors and lawyers�

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though,” Sanjay tells me with a mischievous smile. The pair occasionally disagrees, but the mutual respect the father and son team has for each other is palpable.

“This is all for Arjun,” says Sanjay proudly, looking around the new restaurant. “I don’t want to hold him back, because there was nobody to hold me back.

But I’m very content. I live in a nice house, I drive nice cars, I’d be happy watching a bit more cricket, to be honest.”

Arjun has been working in the business in various manifestations since he was 12 in the school holidays, when he worked as a kitchen porter, a waiter, even sometimes working as a chef. He has definitely earned his stripes from the bottom of the ladder to the top. he was not allowed into the office until he had been everywhere else, Arjun recalls. “At the time I hated it, but now I understand it a lot more, because the respect you get is much greater.

I’ve not just put on a suit and come in and told everyone what to do.”

Arjun decided not to go to university, despite his mother’s protests, and instead wanted to work at the company full-time to understand exactly how all the different cogs within the operation fitted together. Sanjay is proud of his son’s choice, and feels that the older generation of Asian business owners should encourage their children to take up business rather than the safer choice of entering a profession such as medicine or law. “Culturally, I think there is this misconception amongst the older generation within the Asian community that the younger generation should aim for occupations like doctors and lawyers.

I have a different thought process. I don’t have a degree and yet, I have achieved a lot in life and in business. It is important to believe in everything you do in every aspect in life. I believe in my business and I believe in Arjun.”

Madhu’s supplies pre-packaged Indian cuisine to harvey nichols and harrods; if you were to order room service at many of the top london hotels, including the Grosvenor and the landmark, you’d be receiving a Madhu’s curry. A new manufacturing unit, based in hayes,

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has been developed for a more expansive food production line, allowing Arjun to modernise and innovate.

Indeed, Madhu’s has innovated since 1980. It was the first caterer to use karahi stands and thali plates. now, it is installing a robata grill in the new restaurant to supply much healthier Indian food for the waistline aware. All these concepts have been copied by others, as all good ideas inevitably are, but Sanjay does not feel that there is any reason for concern; after all imitation is a form of flattery.

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ll in all, the fitting for the new restaurant has taken four months, a quick turnaround bearing in mind that the contract alone took a year to sign.

This may seem like a difficult way to open a restaurant, to have to liaise on a constant basis with a hotel’s existing infrastructure, its general manager and its American parent company (Starwood, in this case), but Arjun is upbeat about the amount of work that has gone into the project. “It will prepare us for when we open up our next restaurant, possibly in another hotel,” he says. no detail in the new restaurant has gone untouched, the menu has been condensed while the wine and coffee choices have been expanded for a new clientele.

While Arjun has led the charge to modernise the restaurant offering, he is also very aware that catering Asian weddings is changing. The numbers are going down and expectations are going up, and Arjun feels his young blood is a distinct advantage in this market, he relates to clients, many of which are his age group.

While the outside catering business is the focal point for the business right now, Arjun has one eye on the future.

“I see the future of Madhu’s in packaged foods, specifically airline food. That is the next step for us,” says Arjun, but adds a word of caution, the new restaurant has to be established before more expansion is on the cards. Despite Sanjay’s reluctance for swift growth, he admits he is learning to consider more options. “As I’m getting older I’m becoming more of a listener, before I was very headstrong. And that’s where Arjun is ten times better than me, he is a good listener and he is a lot more likeable.”

Arjun says he does not feel any pressure to fill his father’s rather large shoes.

Even though his place was firmly in the kitchen for a number of years, since Arjun has been alongside his father he has been consulted in all decisions. “If you had asked my father 10 years ago, he would have said he was happy with the restaurant and the catering business, but I want more. I would like to take Madhu’s to higher heights. I do have my hands full at the moment, but in the next five or ten years, I will be looking into new ventures,” says Arjun.

And as for those people that think Sanjay may be looking toward retirement, his son has other plans for him. “As long as he can walk and talk he will be involved in this business,” laughs Arjun.

“It’s in his blood, he has put his whole life, blood and sweat into the company.”

Although Arjun has been the catalyst behind the expansion into the new restaurant, it seems it is still Sanjay that has the final say on everything – including the placemats. madhus.co.uk

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Marketing

CO N T E N T IS KING Shaz Memon takes a look at a creative way to engage potential customers with content marketing.

B

usinesses with an online presence that are still exclusively using traditional marketing strategies are increasingly aware of the ineffectiveness of such methods. The truth is that traditional marketing is rapidly becoming outdated. Even when expertly handled, these anachronous methods are not increasing the bottom line as much as they used to.

Today’s multimedia marketing demands shaped the need for more creative and effective marketing strategies – and content marketing was born.

It involves creating engaging, insightful and informative written content aimed at fostering customer awareness and loyalty. By providing comprehensive information about a business’ services and products, content marketing establishes a relationship with existing clients and prospective customers that can be built upon.

The many-layered approach and the potential for immediacy in branding can indirectly lead to higher sales. The flexibility of content marketing offers unique opportunities to absorb and educate a brand’s audience.

This flexibility becomes apparent when the available venues are taken into consideration, which can include articles, blog entries, webinars, videos, eBooks, and similar materials that target consumer interest. Content marketing avoids the traditional hard sell,

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being designed to indirectly promote or sell a product. The goal is to establish a rapport between a company and its target audience. This is done by presenting relevant information in an interesting way that promotes the company as an established leader and expert in its particular field.

Although content marketing does not generate sales directly, it can help increase sales by driving more people to the company website and developing trust in the brand. The latter is tremendously important, as content marketing presents the elements of trust, reliability, and high quality in multiple formats that can convince consumers that they need a company’s services or products, without having it forced upon them. Purchase decisions are made based on this foundation of

trust. People buy with the conviction that it is their own idea.

Because of content marketing’s valuable information, consumers who read it usually share it with their social network contacts. This sharing establishes an immediate brand acceptance because it came from a trusted source.

Traditional unsolicited advertising cannot accomplish the same intensity of sharing and immediate brand credibility.

Reassured by referral, this ‘word-of-net’ cycle repeats with more people driven to the website. Driving people to the company website results in a higher ranking for the company’s site in search engines like Google. This is one of the primary goals of content marketing and is known as search engine optimisation. When the company website is ranked high in search engine results, people are more likely to select the site based on their web search. Content marketing works to increase website traffic, which converts to more sales.

Google continually updates how search algorithms rank relevant content on websites. Its latest search algorithm iteration has shifted the focus from searches that are keywordbased to more comprehensive semantic searches. This significant change will cause irrelevant, keywordstuffed website content to fall lower in search rankings, allowing useful, relevant content to rank higher.

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Publisher’s Diary

w

ELCOME TO OUR FIRST EDITION OF 2014. I know it sounds crazy and obviously too late but I think I’m warranted in saying ‘happy new year’ to all our readers and partners considering this is the first issue of the year.

I hope just like us, everyone has had a fantastic start to the year. We have some amazing projects planned for 2014 from exclusive networking events to fantastic articles and interviews with some of the UK most inspirational Asian entrepreneurs. So stay tuned.

AWM’S SECOND BIRTHDAY EVENT Talking of events, this June we’ll be celebrating our second birthday to coincide with the launch of our Summer edition. our exclusive summer birthday event will be held at a very special location in london’s Mayfair, where guests will be able to enjoy an evening of good food, fine wine, champagne and the company of friends and partners including all our previous interviewees. look out for the special invitation.

ASIAN AWARDS And continuing on the subject of events. It gives me great pleasure to announce AWM will be supporting the 2014 Asian Awards. To be held at the london Grosvenor house (Park lane).

For those of you who are not familiar with this event, The Asian Awards is the biggest and most glamorous event in the Asian calendar. The brain child of Paul Sagoo, the event plays host to some of the world’s finest pan-Asian achievers, from business to philanthropy the event boasts entrepreneurs, celebrities, politicians and business leaders from all over the world.

Make sure you get a ticket and put it on your calendar. (To find out more about this year’s event, please see page 94) TIE UK – ONWARDS AND UPWARDS Those readers who are familiar with the international entrepreneurial network TiE, will know the connection and support we have with the UK division TiE UK, based on us sharing the same values and objectives of inspiring entrepreneurism.

In 2013 I was elected as a board member for TiE UK and have now been appointed as vice-president along with Sampa Bhasin to support the newly elected Mr rajeev Sharma, president of TiE UK. It gives me great pleasure in accepting this responsibility and assisting in moving the network to a new level, to a new market and of course to a new generation.

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I’d also like to say a very big thank you to Dr Sanjeev Ahuja for all his support and dedication to TiE over the past few years, and also congratulate him on being appointed to the board of TiE Global.

MADHU’S AT SHERATON SKYLINE As I’m sure all our readers will know from the spectacular level of coverage Madhu’s has received, the team has launched its new restaurant in the Sheraton Skyline hotel. I’d like to say a personal congratulations, to Sanjay, Arjun and the Madhu’s family for their amazing vision and most importantly delivery of a great product, brand and service.

I was invited to attend the official opening of the restaurant where I along with guests, friends and family from the catering, business and Asian wedding world were indulged with the sumptuous Madhu’s food and glittered by the surroundings enjoyed an evening and experienced attention to detail at its finest.

My opinion – If you were to ask me, are there other good Asian caterers? The answer would be yes. If you ask me, are there other Asian caterers better than Madhu’s? The answer is, maybe.

So why has Madhu’s reached such stratospheric levels?

Well, the answer to that in my eyes is delivery, delivery and delivery. you may have a great product, but if it’s not presented, delivered and executed to the highest level, you not only do your product or service an injustice, but most importantly you risk your brand being simply mediocre.

What I have seen with Madhu’s is the attention to detail on everything the brand encompasses, from the food, to the waiting staff, to the partnerships, to the design, to even the presentation of Sanjay and Arjun themselves.

The delivery and execution of their service is second to none and I truly believe it is this, which is the secret gem to their success.

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WElCoME To 2014 WOLF OF WALL STREET recently I enjoyed the latest movie by director Martin Scorsese, The Wolf of Wall Street starring leonardo DiCaprio and a string of Hollywood’s finest. A fantastic movie, but what do we, and can we, learn from such a masterpiece. yes, granted this is the ‘Wall Street’ for the new generation.

Teenagers will sing the songs of this, the same as we sang for the 1987 cult movie starring Michael Douglas as Gordon Gekko.

In the movie we see DiCaprio’s character, Jordan Belfort, go from a budding Wall Street broker to a larger than life business playboy with a bank balance and lifestyle to match. one can appreciate some hollywood exaggeration has been added for entertainment value, but it’s interesting to see the mental stages of the characters develop as the movie continues. Everything from confidence to moral judgement, and from values to risk levels. Something which I assume all of us in business question from time to time. over the years there have been movies which inspire the thought ‘Greed is Good’, from Wall Street to Boiler room.

All the movies including a storyline of one man’s struggle to become something, be it self-achievement, be it rich or be it powerful. Something I guess many people think of when starting a business, but importantly, what do you learn on your journey especially when morals and values are challenged? how far would you go and push the boundaries to reach your goal and would you sacrifice the happiness of others to achieve yours? Do you ever consider the problems that come with money and power? I think many people in business get so caught up in being driven to succeed that they never really take a moment to consider what life could be like once they get where they want to be.

IN SHORT - A FEW CONGRATULATIONS AND UPDATES: ● Nina Amin at KPMG – Congratulations to Nina who was very deservedly awarded an MBE at the end of last year for services to the Asian Business Community. ● Rajeev Sharma – The newly appointed president of TiE UK.

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As my colleague and friend I wish him all the best and would like to congratulate him. ● Vijay Goel – Appointed new president of London Chambers of Commerce – Asian Business Association. Replacing Nish Kotecha, I along with the AWM team wish Vijay all the best and look forward to working with him this year. ● Ritu Sethi – Ritu and team at The Sethi Partnership for celebrating the 20th anniversary of their legal firm. Starting a business is one thing, but keeping it a success over many years is something completely different. Well done ritu and team. ● The British Asian Trust – Well done to one Direction’s Zayn Malik and Shahid Khan (aka naughty Boy) for showing their support and becoming ambassadors for the trust. ● Meridian West London – Our partners at Meridian, have now opened the doors to their opulent new boutique store in the heart of the Chelsea Design Quarter.

Make sure to pop in and see the spectacular equipment on offer. www.meridianwestlondon.com ● Mistique Events – Be sure to look out for the amazing new 2014/15 brochure from Mistique Events. It includes 128 pages of creative design and decor ideas for not only weddings but any special event. A luxurious hard copy is available, but if you can’t wait, a digital version is also online: facebook.com/ MistiqueEvents ● From Nothing to Everything – Congratulations to Dr Rami ranger on his new book From nothing to Everything. A story which takes us on a journey of one man’s childhood hardship to award-winning business icon. The tale takes us through the break-up of India in 1947 to the assassination of his father to the England migration and the various fights and struggles to success. The book is now available through all good bookshops.

Publisher of Asian Wealth Magazine

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?

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

nature or nuture T

hE UrGE To STrIKE oUT AnD SET UP A business has never been stronger in the UK. In london’s famed Tech City, a colossal 15,720 startups were registered in the year to March 2013, according to research by accountancy firm UHY hacker young. Driven by a burgeoning app economy and an increasingly connected world, entrepreneurs are seemingly everywhere you turn. But does striking out on your own require an innate sense of entrepreneurship? or can such skills be learned? “We come from a very entrepreneurial background,” says Ben Black, who alongside his brother oliver set up nannies agency Tinies and childcare provider MyFamilyCare. “our father, whose Jewish parents escaped hitler, loved business and we were brought up on a diet of commercial hits and misses. “our professions before Tinies were competitive,” he adds. “I was a commercial lawyer and my brother and business partner was a brand manager at Procter & Gamble. It was a pretty good grounding and provided the drive needed to start our own business.” This professional grounding, rather than a natural business sensibility, is a recurring theme when speaking to people who have already set up their own businesses, or intend to in the future. Sanjay Arora works for KPMG as a business development manager, so far, so professional. however, when you learn that his father

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Joe Minihane talks to three business startups to find out if a flair for business is in the genes or can be learnt, developed and practiced for success.

is Surinder Arora, the well-known hotel entrepreneur who runs a chain of high end hotels, including the Sofitel franchise in heathrow and Gatwick airports, you may be wondering why Sanjay wanted to nuture his business experience in an environment outside of his family business. Although 23-year-old Sanjay has worked with his father since he was 13 in the school holidays, he has always been keen to gain a professional standing of his own, before thinking of starting his own business in the many years he has left in his career.

“My dad did want me to join the business straight after I left university,” says Sanjay. “It was his dream. Joining KPMG was solely my choice, I wanted to gain respect and I wanted to do my chartered accountancy, which I think is very important, it gives you credibility and business acumen.”

Whether or not Sanjay believes there is business running through his blood, he is undecided. “I do believe there is such a thing as business in the genes purely because I wanted to learn about business at

a very young age and I showed a strong interest through a very driven father. But it’s not something that is an automatic response. you have to work for it, so for example if I didn’t come to a professional services firm, I wouldn’t have known how to do some of the skilled procedures, such as certain mergers or acquisitions, which are an essential part of growth in any business wanting to go to the next level. There are huge factors that I should know as a businessman who wants to do well in life, you have to know what you’re talking about. And that’s what KPMG has given me; so much exposure to people I never would have met if I had been working in the family business.”

Sanjay is doing well and enjoying his time at KPMG and would recommend it as a move to any heir to a family business. It is also not a foregone conclusion that Sanjay will automatically join his father’s company when he feels the time is right, indeed he has other avenues he would like to pursue, such as pharmaceuticals manufacturing and care homes.

Zoe Arch’s Craft Candy business, which aims to connect craft events across the UK, echoes Sanjay’s sentiments.

“I’ve set up a few departments within companies and I think that has really helped give me an insight into setting up and running a business. That made me less fearful of it. And then it snowballed after that and you just learn things along the way.” Zoe says that learning on the job has been key to her success. “In terms of a business, there’s never one

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Business DNA

person who’s good at everything, so you have to go out there and learn it. Being in london, there are always talks on Pr or SEo and keynote speakers who have set up their own businesses talking about the challenges that they have faced when they’ve done that.” This approach shows that hard work and dedication, learning as you go, are more likely to help when setting up your own business. Talent is one thing, but actual experience and graft can make a business develop quickly. learning as you go, rather than going to university, seems to be the preference for many.

“I couldn’t think of anything worse than studying,” says Matt Miller, cofounder of design studio UsTwo, which has worked with major brands including Sony, JP Morgan and h&M. “I believe business is very simple. Always work hard and always work with incredible and happy people. Along with passion, empathy and trust – that’s all you need.”

Ben Black feels the same, “real life experience is massively more important [than studying]. In fact I would say it is about 80% of the whole. But the 20% that you come armed with from your professional careers is important as well.

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ollie’s P&G training is still relevant to how we budget and plan. And my legal training has been essential as well as we have grown and raised funds.” The need to constantly learn and evolve also suggests that entrepreneurship is something that requires nurturing, rather than simply being a natural instinct. “you never stop learning,” says Matt. “nine years in and I feel like we are about to start over again, so if you are not constantly re-imagining and disrupting the company, then you’ll find yourself in a job.”

Zoe agrees, “If you’re going to do it properly you have to get out there.” This get-up-and-go is perhaps the basis of the natural entrepreneurial spirit. But that alone is not enough. That needs a heap of life experience and a willingness to learn and work endlessly, as Zoe, Ben and Matt can attest. “Everyone is an entrepreneur these days so it has made it easier for people to start businesses,” says Ben. “But I think the gap between starting out and building a successful, sustainable business is about as big as it has always been. If you throw enough energy and passion at something and you’re sensible enough to know when a change in direction is needed then you will often end up in a very good place.”

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The

UK

32 SectionAp1-37.indd 32

glass ceiling

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In Business

Low corporation tax, plenty of grants and an enterprising attitude should mean that the UK’s entrepreneurs are leading the world. But instead of flourishing, they’re falling short of their US counterparts.

Keeley Bolger looks at our complex tax system and cultural attitudes to find out why it is that us resilient, innovative Brits are trailing behind.

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ITh PlEnTy oF nEW GoVErnMEnT InITIATIVES to help start-ups, low corporation tax and a skilled workforce, the UK should be a hotbed for entrepreneurs.

Indeed you only have to look at entrepreneurial success stories like that of richard Branson, Tim Berners-lee and the reams of innovative business ideas on Dragon’s Den to see that when it comes to entrepreneurial triumph, we are a nation that can.

But despite this winning formula and gold star examples, it seems that the UK is tough place for entrepreneurs to survive and thrive.

According to the house of Commons, there were 261,000 business births and 230,000 business deaths in 2011. This makes it seems like a stark place for business newbies. So what is holding us back where entrepreneurs in the US are succeeding?

A TAXING ISSUE Well, there’s our tax system for starters.

Tax laws in the UK can seem unfavourable to the entrepreneur. While corpora-

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33 11/02/2014 18:35

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“In the States, failure is often

looked upon favourably

as lenders believe that the start-up

will have learned from it”

tion tax has fallen (giving us the lowest tax for any major world economy), many believe the tax system to be too complex and confusing for the start-up.

As we’ve seen, big businesses like Starbucks and Amazon, have by their nature more resources for lengthy legal suits and more money to pay for accountants to find loopholes to avoid paying more tax than they have to.

But on the flipside, the entrepreneur who is investigated by hMrC isn’t likely to have the money or time to plunge into sifting through the complexities of our tax system and is left out of pocket and using valuable hours that could be spent expanding their business, on understanding tax. our complicated system means that home grown business innovators may up and leave for foreign shores and who would blame them for moving to Singapore where everyone is taxed at the same rate, regardless of earnings, meaning a greater incentive to success?

Then there’s the issue of inheritance.

If you’re an entrepreneur, you’re more likely to use funds from family members to get the ball rolling rather than money which some banks might be reluctant to loan to you. But if your inheritance is more than £325,000 you’ll be taxed on it.

If you haven’t been left a nice pile by a relative, then there are schemes in place to help you get your business off the ground. There are business boot camps and lectures to help inspire, and then there’s the Entrepreneur Investment Scheme (EIS) which is designed to give tax breaks to small businesses that help fund start-ups. So far, so good.

But the number of rules and level of paperwork involved for people looking to take advantage of the EIS is offputting to many and that’s just those that have actually heard about it.

Securing money to begin with is

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one thing, but according to DFJ Esprit and Go4Venture Advisers, there is also less funding to grow businesses from a start-up to a medium-sized business in the UK than there is for equivalent US entrepreneurs.

BAD ATTITUDES Even if you’ve snapped up some funding, UK entrepreneurs are likely to approach business differently to our US cousins, making us more susceptible to being resigned about failure, and bow out of business too early, not wanting to fail again.

Indeed, the European Commission found that 48% of Europeans believe that starting a business when there’s a chance of failure is a bad idea, compared with a mere 19% of Americans.

And it seems that this attitude is ingrained in our psyche. last november, Global Entrepreneurial Week research suggested that many young people in the UK see becoming an entrepreneur as a risky choice and as a poor alternative to finding a job in an established company.

But even if you have initial faith in the idea, often when start-ups fail in the UK, we give up on it. yet over in the US, entrepreneurs are much more likely to examine where they went wrong, seek more funding and try again.

And even if the entrepreneur is not risk averse, it doesn’t help that banks and venture capitalists can be reluctant to lend to a business if they have previously failed. yet in the States, failure is often looked upon favourably as lenders believe that if the start-up wants another crack at business, that they will have learned from their experiences and will be a bigger success second, third or even fourth time around. neatly enough this long and expensive route to riches is sometimes called the Million Dollar MBA in the

States, while here many entrepreneurs wouldn’t have the funds or backing to try a second or third time.

And with such cultural attitudes to wrangle with, it is easy to see why a big part of the cultural glass ceiling is our aversion to failure.

LEAN ON ME? Putting cultural attitudes to one side, there are yet more barriers to success.

Granted, it is not all gloomy. We are, for example recognised for our world class education, but the house of Commons’ Science and Technology Committee warned last year that a lack of resources for innovation means that many entrepreneurs are having to look to private investors to fund their business and more often than not that means selling stakes of the business or merging with bigger overseas companies.

Couple this with the fact that young entrepreneurs in the UK are statistically much less likely to expand their business by employing 20 or more workers and you can see why bigger future success can pass us by.

And thinking about the global market, there is also the concern that UK venture capitalists are less technically savvy than their US peers, meaning that UK investors are more likely to turn down more advanced projects.

THE FUTURE’S FEMALE? As well as this, there are yet more barriers to women to becoming successful entrepreneurs than there are for men.

While women and men are equally capable of coming up with innovative ideas and businesses, men are 72% more likely than women to still be running their start-up after three years according to research by Prowess.

And while women face the same economic obstacles as men, it is thought

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“Women in the US are

twice as likely

fortune

active than women

FOOTSTEPS

to be entrepreneurially in the UK”

that a lack of entrepreneurial female role models makes it hard for women to believe that they can do it.

A three year study by Psychological Consultancy concluded that female entrepreneurs are also more likely to be cautious than men and because of this, less likely to risk starting businesses. likewise, the Global report on Women and Entrepreneurship, GEM 2012, cited that women across the world have a higher fear of failure than men. Pair that with being a UK-based woman, and the odds are stacked against you.

But it is not so bleak for women outside the UK. last year’s Women Powering Business launched by Dell applauded the US for its solid access to technology, networks and funds making it an ideal environment for female entrepreneurs to flourish. Rather worryingly, women in the US are twice as likely to be entrepreneurially active than women in the UK, according to research by Prowess.

Why? Well, since 1988 the States have been committed to improving access to business and have invested in infrastructure to encourage more female entrepreneurs.

As part of this commitment, the US has excellent women’s business centres where women can discuss business, as well as have access to a database of information and contacts.

All this could help with another obstacle that

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stands between UK female entrepreneurs flourishing – experience. last year, the rBS group found that often female entrepreneurs do not have as much management experience as men, which can hinder their progress.

And then there’s the age old problem of child care. In many cases, this responsibility falls to women, meaning the scope and time needed for starting a new business might be limited.

All this could make for miserable reading, but it’s not all bad. on a positive note, women are more likely to take to Twitter, social media and emerging technologies to further their businesses.

And despite all these challenges, the UK ranks as one of the top five G20 countries to start a business, according to the Entrepreneurship Barometer, and the second best for access to funding, just behind the States.

And thinking about the rewards of living an entrepreneurial nation, the innovation, openings in the workforce, competition and opportunities it creates, it’s well worth us re-evaluating our concerns about failure and working out how we can encourage more entrepreneurial success.

And perhaps with more awareness of schemes like the EIS, more workshops for entrepreneurs to network, and a greater acceptance of failure, we could be nudging up the leaderboard and setting an example to the world.

In his latest instalment, Aneesh Popat tells AWM about the advancements his chocolate-making business has made in the last three months.

The final quarter of 2013 saw us supply royalty, several Michelin-starred restaurants, and work with large firms such as Coca-Cola.

We gained recognition by having three additional chocolates getting presence on Michelin-starred menus. Chef Andy McFadden of L’Autre Pied has also commissioned a signature chocolate to his name. A surprise phone call one evening led to us to create the lowest calorie bar of chocolate in the world for Middle Eastern royalty – made exclusively for them. Building such a clientele base has been an aspiration and we have attracted such a market based upon the very philosophy The Chocolatier was founded on: “purity in flavour and honesty to chocolate”.

Through difficult periods we have remained steadfast to using the very best chocolate on the planet and letting it speak for itself by accentuating it with compatible fresh ingredients rather than dousing them in cream and butter.

As a result, unadulterated nature shines through as an exquisite finish on the palate, we do not need any of our chocolatiers to be geniuses, although they are the very best.

I am slowly gaining public recognition as a chocolate expert, being featured on CNN International and various other TV shows. Within the industry, we are becoming recognised as a point of chocolate knowledge and are proud to hold such a seat. In 2014, we wish to further solidify our authority on the science of chocolate and progress the UK fine chocolate industry through projects which aim to educate, excite and inspire.

37 11/02/2014 18:35

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05/02/2014

09:35

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BUSINESS news T O D AY ' S N E W S F O R T O M O R R O W ' S B U S I N E S S

GOVERNMENT ACTS ON BUSINESS RATES Speaking at a Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) event, Prime Minister David Cameron has set out how the success of small businesses is central to the government’s long term economic plan. He pledged his commitment to continue to make it easier for small businesses to thrive.

The country’s 4.9 million small businesses could save up to £10,000 each a year by taking advantage of government measures available to them, including new business rates measures, growth vouchers, employment allowance, deregulation.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “Small businesses play an important role in boosting growth and creating jobs. I regularly meet these companies across the UK to hear first-hand how government can do its part to help small- and medium-sized businesses grow and succeed. We have acted on their demands by improving access to finance with the new British Business Bank which I established last year, by significantly reducing red tape and by increasing the take up of business rate relief.”

This package is part of the government’s efforts to boost support for the growing number of small businesses across the UK. Small firms employ around 14 million people and are making an increasingly significant contribution to the British economy.

“We have acted on their demands by improving access to finance with the new British Business Bank which I established last year.”

Vince Cable

Enterprise and Skills Minister Matthew Hancock said: “Small businesses are responsible for nearly half the job creation in the UK. That’s why we must continue our drive to provide the support they need to scale-up, move into new markets and hire more staff so that they can compete in the global race.”

To further support small businesses the government has been working closely with Enterprise Nation to launch The Business Exchange. This asks big businesses to link up with smaller ones to exchange skills, resources and ideas to help them grow. This initiative aims to strengthen the UK’s position as a great place to do business.

UK AIMS TO ATTRACT INDIAN GRADUATES A £1m scholarship programme has been launched in India by the British High Commission in an attempt to attract the brightest young talent the country has to offer.

Around 370 scholarships will be offered for 260 undergraduate and postgraduate courses at 36 institutions across the UK, starting in September.

“Four of the world’s top six universities are in the UK and these are known not only for the excellent education they offer but also for their vibrant environment. We welcome India’s brightest students in our universities and for that there is no limit on the number of students who come and stay on to work on a graduate level job after their studies,” said David Lelliott, British Deputy High Commissioner.

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BUSINESS news LABOUR POLICIES WELCOMED BY NABA The chair of the National Asian Business Association (NABA), Uday Dholakia, has reacted favourably to the key Labour economic policies made by Leader of the Opposition, Ed Miliband, on 17th January 2014 at Senate House, University of London.

These key initiatives outlined by Labour were: an industrial policy serving every region of Britain, a new culture of long-termism in our rules on takeovers and the stock market, an education policy to drive up teaching standards and equip young people with skills and training, a plan to build 200,000 homes a year by the end of the next Parliament, and creating a truly competitive banking system that serves businesses and the real economy.

Uday Dholakia said: “I welcome the commitment from the Leader of the Opposition to have a clear regional industrial policy. At the moment we are drifting somewhat with

the Local Enterprise Partnerships.

Regulating take-overs to take into account the common good of the employees and the society has to be welcomed. Protecting the interest of consumers also has to be welcomed. Mr Miliband seems to be genuinely committed to making regulators deliver their remits.”

The most welcome news, he said “was the commitment to create genuine competition amongst banks, and to stimulate the creation of two new Challenger banks.

Talking to NABA business association members up and down the country, banking and access to quality banking still remains a big challenge.”

Mr Dholakia said that his mandate from NABA’s Board is to engage with all the three political parties at a senior level in the interest of the British Asian business communities and leverage a “get real” and measurable commitment prior to the next general election.

FAMOUS FRANCHISE COMES TO UK Ram Javia and Neil Patel have become the first UK franchisees of the famous US fast food chain Dunkin’ Donuts, opening a café in Harrow.

This move is part of a wider UK-assault, in which the brand plans to open 150 restaurants in the next five years, with 10% of these being drive-thrus. Cities such as Chelmsford and Cambridge are to follow Harrow’s lead and will sell British-style food including sausage rolls and bacon butties, and of course, doughnuts.

The brand departed the UK 20 years ago, after admitting that it had been wrong to focus on expensive central London retail sites. It is thought that the parent company is now working towards expanding sister company, Baskin’ Robbins in Europe also.

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As the Asian Women of Achievement Awards mark their 15th anniversary, the nationwide search to find 2014’s breakthrough Asian females has begun.

Held in association with the Royal Bank of Scotland, the awards were founded by entrepreneur and women’s champion Pinky Lilani OBE, with the aim of celebrating Asian women who are pushing the boundaries across a range of industries and sectors – from the arts, media and culture to business, sports and public service. Nominations are open at: http://awa.realbusiness.co.uk/ until Monday March 17, 2014.

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UK ECONOMY SLOWLY RISES The green shoots we have been promised for the last 18 months at last seem to be appearing. According to the Office for National Statistics, the UK economy grew by 1.9% in 2013, its strongest rate since 2007. However, growth in gross domestic product (GDP) for the fourth quarter slipped to 0.7%, down from 0.8% in the previous quarter, said the ONS. Economic output is still 1.3% below its 2008 first quarter level.

The UK’s service sector - which makes up more than threequarters of economic output - rose by 0.8% in the fourth quarter, matching its performance in the previous quarter. The manufacturing sector grew by 0.9%. Growth in the construction sector, which makes up less than 8% of GDP, fell by 0.3% in the quarter, despite the recent recovery in a housing market boosted by the government’s Help to Buy scheme.

&

QUOTES anecdotes

Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark.

You know what you are doing but nobody else does.

Steuart Henderson Britt (Marketing Management and Administrative Action) IN BUSINESS, I’VE DISCOVERED THAT MY PURPOSE IS TO DO MY BEST TO MY UTMOST ABILITY EVERY DAY. THAT’S MY STANDARD. I LEARNED EARLY IN MY LIFE THAT I HAD HIGH

METRO BANK ZOOMS IN ON ASIAN BUSINESS Metro Bank, the newest high street bank on the block, has launched an Asian Banking Group for Asian businesses and entrepreneurs. The specialist group, led by Metro Bank’s Nimesh Sanghrajka, will act as a hub for Asian businesses in London and the South East.

Metro Bank says that its introduction reflects the company’s “strong community focus and understanding of the cultural diversities present in many business communities”. It follows the bank being named Financial Provider of the Year at the Asian Voice Political & Public Life Awards for 2014.

The group will host regular events, including breakfast seminars and networking sessions, for its members, which will include Metro Bank’s existing customers and non-customers.

The MP Keith Vaz said at the launch event: “I’m delighted to be part of the launch of Metro Bank’s Asian Banking Group today. A specialist group for Asian business people and entrepreneurs is an exciting development in high street banking and it demonstrates an understanding from Metro Bank of the role that culture plays in many business communities. It’s great to see this new high street player developing its relationships with the Asian community even further.”

Metro Bank, which opened in 2010, now has more than 280,000 business and personal customer accounts, and has recently opened its 25th store in Milton Keynes.

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STANDARDS. Donald Trump

Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning.

Bill Gates THE COMPETITOR TO BE FEARED IS ONE WHO NEVER BOTHERS ABOUT YOU AT ALL, BUT GOES ON MAKING HIS OWN BUSINESS BETTER ALL THE TIME. Henry Ford

41

11/02/2014 18:50

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11/02/2014 18:50

AD

EU

?

What are your competitors doing, have they gone to these markets and succeeded or failed, why What can you learn from them Is there room for new suppliers Is there demand Can you make your service or product stand out from the crowd

RO A GA S BUSINES

4

Paperwork Often a small oversight could cost you thousands of pounds if paperwork is not completed and goods are locked in customs, don’t forget reporting is not restricted to the overseas markets. Selling in the EU and VAT issues will need to be addressed, reverse charge matters, export licences etc.

5

B

IN

D

2

IL

Research the market you are entering, what barriers will you encounter These can be business or cultural challenges, or simply an adversity to overseas products or services. The most significant barriers to exporting are lack of contacts, cultural barriers and lack of information, so do your homework before spending money.

BU

1

IN

OR E U O UT

B

EForE EXPAnDInG yoUr BUSInESS ABroAD you must always ensure your own house is in order. Don’t forget to take the first basic steps first, before building your business abroad.

Don’t stop reading This isn’t a political article about EU integration.

It is about growing your business and exploring overseas markets.

The UK is the second largest outward investor and exporter of services.

Everybody wants their business to grow but exploring or taking up new sales opportunities presents itself with risks and rewards. If you are not lucky enough to get a sales opportunity through contacts and word of mouth, how can you exploit the vast markets out there As ever, due diligence is fundamental, you do not have to spend vast amounts of money to understand overseas markets, applying some common sense steps is important.

Risk. Mitigate your chance of losses.

Opt for an overseas agent, although they may charge commission anywhere from 2.5% to 15%, they can be an invaluable first step for contacts and market knowledge, which are often key reasons cited for overseas ventures failing. Do not give credit to customers until you have built a relationship

or insist on upfront payment or staged payments to reduce any default risks.

Check on what is going on, always see for yourself.

6

Financials. With the costs of set up, transport, commission, export fees/ taxes etc, ask yourself if it is worth it Only last year, Tesco threw the in the towel on its US venture – “Fresh Easy” stores, costing it many millions of pounds. So don’t panic, even the big boys get it wrong. But reducing your chances of large losses and learning from any mistakes will help in future ventures overseas and at home. In a later article we’ll discuss opportunities further afield and issues to consider.

3

UK market strength. Are you doing well enough in your home market to consider overseas markets Ensure you get things right locally before venturing overseas.

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Chartered Certified accountants

43 11/02/2014 18:50

FROM FINANCE TO

n desserts No dinner is complete without an equally fine ending.

Nima Suchak meets the founders of Ajmere; one of London’s most stylish after-dinner experiences.

C

HERRY ON THE CAKE, CREAM IN YOUR COFFEE, whatever you like to call it, no proper meal is complete without the star of the show, the grand finale, the dessert.

Brothers agroop and Satpreet Chohan decided to dessert’ the City in 2013 to establish Ajmere, a premium dessert brand that brings tastes from the palaces of Rajasthan to fine diners in London. Fusing the intensity of Indian flavour with traditional British ingredients, the company aims to turn the last course of a meal into a culinary experience diners will never forget. agroop, 30, and Satpreet, 27 both financial professionals in private equity and hedge funds, took the ultimate step by taking time out from their financial careers in the City after falling in love with the culinary delights of Rajasthan.

“We were curious about where our family name came from and eventually traced our family line to 7th Century Ajmer, in Rajasthan,” recalls agroop. The brothers researched the culinary traditions of the region, and found a connection between Ajmer and their own lineage. “We started rediscovering and reconnecting with the lost culinary art from our rich family heritage,” he explains.

The interest in regional desserts went from an idea to a potential business two years ago when the brothers decided to fund raise for a Macmillan Cancer Event in their hometown of Hitchin in Hertfordshire.

With no marketing budget and not being natural sales people, armed only with the help and expertise of a p tissier friend, the brothers put together a selection of mouth-watering desserts to sell on a cold, wet, autumn morning from a humble market stall in the town square. The products literally flew off the table, selling out within a few hours, and raising hundreds of pounds for charity.

“It just sold itself. The desserts were selling out and people wanted more.

That very day we decided to launch Ajmere, and elegant desserts became our

44 SectionBp38-75.indd 44

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11/02/2014 18:50

A s i a n We a l t h M a g . c o . u k

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45 11/02/2014 18:50

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Banham Concierge is an international consultancy with a global presence, which has quickly established itself as one of the leading concierge consultancies, providing distinct lifestyle management, business development and bespoke, luxury concierge services to its private and elite members.

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BANHAM Concierge Asian SectionBp38-75.indd 46 Wealth Magazine A4 Advert.indd 2

17/09/2013 11/02/2014 15:04 18:50

13 15:04

“It just sold itself. That very day

we decided to launch Ajmere, and elegant desserts became our business”

business,” says Satpreet.

The enthusiastic pair formed a small team of p tissiers to hand craft an artistic selection of desserts laced with exotic Indian flavours such as mango, coconut, and pistachio.

It wasn’t long before many influential people in the business offered support and advice on how to approach clientele, marketing, and more.

Ajmere’s first major showcase was at the TiE UK Awards in March 2013. All of the guests enjoyed the gourmet dessert experience, and the Chohan Brothers were honoured to be asked to give a 10 minute presentation to 300 of the UK’s elite leaders and celebrity guests including Nick Clegg and ames Caan. “The event gave us a lot of exposure and helped put us on the map,” says Satpreet. “It was fantastic to have respected businessmen say they were impressed by our speech and the desserts.”

A RICH LEGACY The Maharajahs, the one-time rulers of India’s princely states, were lovers of great food, hosting luxurious banquets with great grandeur and celebration.

Historically it was within the lavish but closely guarded royal kitchens of their stately palaces, that the highest level of Indian cuisine could be discovered.

Royal artisans carefully kept their secret recipes and handed down their knowledge only to their children so that they could continue to serve in the Maharajahs’ court.

With the disappearance of the Maharajahs, Ajmere’s desire is to rekindle this lost but great artistic culinary tradition with its own modern flavour, something the brothers hope their own royal ancestors would be proud of.

A

s an exclusive concierge brand, Ajmere has built up a portfolio of highend clients with most of its business supplying desserts for the hospitality and events industry with a special focus on prestigious occasions including weddings and corporate functions.

Ajmere has grown to offer around more than 50 different desserts. A unique selling point is that the desserts are lighter than traditional Indian sweets, and so complement a rich Asian meal. The most popular varieties include the Peanut Sensation, a lightly whipped Belgian chocolate mousse on a rich sponge base, with a smooth peanut butter cheesecake

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Top: White chocolate, ginger and lemon cheesecake; Below: Peanut Sensation.

swirl topped with fresh cream and finely sliced peanuts and the Indian classic Mango Fool Mousse, which combines a soft vanilla sponge base with a richly swirled mango cream. The indulgent White Chocolate, Ginger and Lemon Cheesecake, won the prestigious Great Taste 2013 Award.

Business is growing through clients’

experience and word of mouth.

“From the start, we’ve been quietly confident that our products would be in demand, but we’ve been surprised by the success. It’s clear that innovating and supplying seductive desserts will remain popular,” says Satpreet.

A new TV campaign is on the cards to promote Ajmere on Asian channels, and the brothers are also focused on their Academy of Culinary Arts, an initiative to create opportunities for the future generation of expert dessert crafters.

Passing on dessert secrets that have descended through generations, the Ajmere Academy aims to promote culinary artistry across the UK and train a new legion of budding patisserie chefs. w w w .aj m er e.co.uk

47 11/02/2014 18:51

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11/02/2014 05/02/2014 18:51 15:51

014 15:51

Wonder Women

wonder WOMEN

s

In her last column for AWM, Farida Gibbs leaves her final thoughts on making it as a woman in a man’s world.

P hotogr aphby

E y ej ogia.com

O, MY LAST COLUMN in Asian Wealth Magaz ine What a pleasure it has been to be a part of an incredible editorial magazine.

Before I close out I wanted to share with any woman in business what I believe it takes to succeed. There is no real recipe for success but what I can share with you is that being successful comes down to a number of key factors that I have seen over and over again in successful business woman and entrepreneurs. For me, sharing the key ingredients to a fruitful career can only be a good thing.

I put my success down to defining my core values, and what the most important things for me were when doing business, hiring people, building a team and growing. I had to define what was very important to me and what I believed would help grow the business. ● H onesty and integr ity . A good business is an ethical business,

honesty and integrity speaks volumes about a company. I truly believe that this will carry your reputation. ● C ustom er S er v ice. No matter what, my customer is always right. It was important to me that I put my customer first before the company. This brought back countless repeat business again and again. ● R esp ect. Making sure I treat my staff, colleagues, and cus-

tomers with respect. To treat those how I wished to be treated.

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My goal is to become the most respected staffing consulting firm in my industry. ● C om m itm ent. Love your work, enjoy what you do and results

will come in, go the extra mile for yourself, dedicate your time to your work. I love what I do and there is never a day when it feels like work’. ● C om m unity . Give back, always give back. Look at your communities, where can you help Care for those less fortunate than yourself. Who could benefit from your help A sense of giving is the ultimate satisfaction for me. I work hard and strive hard for success so that I can give back to my family, take care of those who are less fortunate than me. It makes me feel good.

Success is a journey, and no one tell you how long that journey is. To be successful in business you will have to work hard, put in the hours, graft and make endless lists and to do’ plans. Staying organised, good time management and a detailed plan have kept me focused, and I believe my success simply boils down to my passion and determination. A quality I see in every successful business woman and entrepreneur.

Whatever you decide to do, or if you are running your business today, think about your core values and what matters to you. Defining a set of core values will ensure longevity in your business marked with great reputation and respect.

We do well when we do good

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13 09:09

Legal

?

Shall we meet around the table Ranjeev Saluja discusses the imperative to sit around the negotiation table before launching legal action for the good of all businesses, but especially the SME.

SINCE 1ST APRIL 2013, THE GOVERNMENT’S AIMS TO HAVE MORE PARTIES reach the negotiating table first, rather than crowd UK courts with matters that could easily be resolved with some foresight and compromise.

To this end, law firms and practicing litigation firms have braced themselves for the ackson reforms – which impact upon the legal world and its ever increasing ripples of change in the field of litigation. The initial proceedings may be much the same but litigation tactics have had to be revised when approaching high-net-worth cases.

The introduction of cost management, cost budgeting and changes to the proportionality rule (whereby parties are to assess the costs of litigation before starting the case) are all now in place to bring further transparency to the profession and to allow parties to judge for themselves the true costs of litigation in comparison to the alternative methods of resolution, such as mediation or arbitration.

The same applies to the new changes with the introduction of the disclosure menu and the greater focus on electronic disclosure, which the courts had been historically slow to adopt, considering the majority of business disputes constitute large amounts of electronic data.

A disclosure menu allows for parties to remove all the privileged documents (documents/correspondence between the client and their legal advisors) and then effectively “hand the keys to the warehouse” for the parties to look around seeing what they require to prove or defend their case. So the party can choose which documents they require. This is the opposite of standard disclosure which requires

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each party to examine its own documents and essentially provide the ones it thinks will help the other side.

Finally, the changes on the rules for settlements (or Part 36 offers): which go further to ensure that the parties consider the settlements at earlier stages so to be mindful of costs. A Part 36, or settlement, offer is intended for the recipient to consider the offer carefully. If it is rejected and the amount won at court or at later settlement is less than the previous offer, the court will take it upon itself to penalise the party refusing the offer with wasting legal costs. These changes allow the Part 36 offer to be used tactically by either defendant or claimant, and add a further twist to the proceedings.

Solicitors have had to rethink their strategy when advising clients and to advise them on the new costs and consequences all of these reforms

may have on their case.

In brief, small or medium businesses must evaluate the true consequences of calling a solicitor and to be prepared to consider what may be ahead. These reforms have been put in place to aid such clients and to ensure that parties are not tied up within the legal system for years, when a simple conversation around table could provide the same, if not better, result.

T heSe thiP ar tner shipSol icitor s canpr ov ide s uchas sistanceas an alter nativ et ot r adi tional litigation.

P leasec allus on0286 64or e- m aili nf o@ sethi.co.uk w w w .sethi.co.uk

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11/02/2014 18:51 05/02/2014 18:03

I

T’S A NEW YEAR and a time of new beginnings, and optimism is certainly in the air – at least in terms of the UK’s economy. As 2013 came to a close, there was buoyancy in the housing and labour markets, as well as business and consumer confidence.

While Chancellor George Osborne may have warned that 2014 will be “a year of hard truths” – vowing to extend the austerity programme and cutting public spending by a further £17bn, the British Chamber of Commerce has revealed that UK businesses have had a fantastic start to the year.

A survey of 8,000 firms by the BCC, indicated that growth accelerated in the final three months of 2013. Export balances for the services sector hit unprecedented peaks, and key manufacturing survey balances hit record highs.

As a result, the BCC estimates that UK GDP is likely to have expanded 0.9% in that time.

Employment is also on the rise – with unemployment figures at 7.4%, a four-year low. Figures from the BCC also suggest that 27% of service firms will look to employ more people in the next three months, with 31% of manufacturing firms planning to do the same. Inflation is also at its lowest level in four years.

“It’s a fantastic start to the new year,” says the BCC’s director general ohn Longworth. “Firms across the board believe they can create jobs, invest and export. It’s especially pleasing that the spurt in manufacturing has proven not to be a fluke, which demonstrates the dynamism of our small, high value, manufacturing sector.”

The BCC’s optimistic forecast was

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2014 WHAT LIES AHEAD? As the dust settles on a rather gloomy 2013, we take a look at what 2014 has in store for UK businesses. Could there be shoots of prosperity rising from the soggy economic landscape?

Melissa Stewart investigates.

A s i a n We a l t h M a g . c o . u k

11/02/2014 18:51

also echoed in a recent survey by consultancy firm Deloitte. Polling 122 of the UK’s top CFOs, the survey found that 91% expect to see revenues increase in 2014. It also revealed that risk appetite is at a six-year high among big corporates and economic uncertainty is at a threeand-a-half year low.

Notably, for the first time since the financial crisis, CFOs say that bank borrowing offers the most attractive source of funding for businesses. Good news for small businesses, who have suffered from significant cutbacks in bank lending during the recession.

The Chancellor also promised some respite for SMEs in his autumn statement by extending business rate relief for small firms until April 2015. Business rate rises have also been limited to 2% in England in 2014, rather than being linked to inflation. There’s also a two-year plan for a discount on business rates for some small traders on the high street. The age at which employers have to make compulsory National Insurance contributions for young people has also been raised from the current age of 16 to 21.

Commenting on the UK’s economic recovery, Ian Stewart, chief economist at Deloitte, said: “CFOs enter 2014 in a buoyant mood with focus on expansion, investment and hiring in the year ahead.

This bodes well for the broad-based recovery policymakers hope to see in 2014.

“Uncertainty and credit shortages, two major blocks on business activity, have eased substantially and CFOs believe that the level of financial and economic risk facing their businesses has significantly reduced within the last year. Whether through introducing new products and services, M A or moving into new markets, expansion is firmly on the agenda.”

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FOUR CONSUMER TRENDS FOR 2014 Richard Nicholls, head of intelligence and economics at Future Foundation, a leading global consumer insight consultancy, reveals the trends businesses should be aware of in the year ahead...

CAUTIOUS SPENDING Although there are some green shots of recovery, the economic recovery isn’t filtering to all sectors of society. It’s being led by the most affluent groups and is centred in London. For most, earnings growth is much lower than the rate of inflation – so people won’t be flashing the cash. They’ll continue to be cautious with their money and make informed purchase decisions. This trend was recently jumped on by high street store TK Maxx whose ad campaign used the tagline ‘savvy is the new black’ – emphasising to consumers that it offers high quality style at affordable and sensible prices.

IT’S GETTING PERSONAL While monitoring people’s online shopping behaviour is nothing new, 2014 will see retailers getting ever shrewder with data to create truly personalised consumer experiences. This will mark a decline in mass marketing messaging and put the emphasis on the individual. An example of this could be a restaurant chain using your mobile’s location technology to target you with specific deals and promotions when you’re in the area.

BRICKS BITE BACK With online stores grabbing ever more business from the high street, 2014 will be the year when the bricks and mortar stores will up their game to get customers back through their doors. At Future Foundation, this is called Retail Reloaded. Shopping will no longer simply be about buying products, it will be about the experience of shopping in a particular store.

Think Jo Malone, the high end perfumerie, which offers free in-store hand massages to weary shoppers on the weekends via its Tasting Bars.

AN AGELESS SOCIETY Recent figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) indicated that young people are favouring moderate living over hedonism and partying – indeed, brands may have already noticed a shift in how young people spend their money. It’s an era of self-preservation and looking after your mind and body – a trend dubbed the Society of Sobriety. At the other side of the scale, people are working and living longer. Older consumers are no longer retiring quietly. They’ve got savings and they want to spend them on experiences like travelling and adventures abroad.

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11/02/2014 18:51

In Business

As the opposing campaigns for Scottish independence heat up in the months leading up to September, Andrew Stone takes a look at what businesses and investors in Scotland could expect from a standalone state.

WILL THEY STAY OR WILL

they go?

I

N SEPTEMBER SCOTTISH RESIDENTS will vote in the referendum that could see the nation separate from its Southern neighbour, ending a 300-year political union.

An independent Scotland would have many knock-on effects for businesses north of the border and those trading into Scotland, so you might expect a detailed debate to be happening over the finer points of what this would mean for business.

But you would be mostly wrong. Amazingly the debate over many of the fundamental aspects of an independent Scotland are shrouded even at this late stage in

A s i a n We a l t h M a g . c o . u k

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“We definitely have some members who

will relocate out of Scotland if it becomes independent”

a fog of uncertainty, never mind the fine print about what it might be like doing business there.

A few things we know for certain. An independent Scotland would take on its share of UK debt in exchange for the two agreeing on a fair share’ of the UK’s resource. We also know that a new Scottish government says it will be business friendly – pledging corporation tax 3% below the UK rate if Scotland becomes independent.

There is further good news: according to estimates by the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, an independent Scotland would have less debt per person than the remainder of UK. The bad news is that it would face higher borrowing costs – as much as 1.7% more, says the nIESr. Beyond this, a staggering amount is as yet unknown, such as whether Scotland will continue to use the Pound or adopt the Euro. There is also debate as to who will collect Scottish taxes – the UK’s HMRC or a yet-to-be-determined Scottish equivalent.

Another so far left unanswered question is whether Scotland will adopt EU law or retain UK-based rules. On what basis will its businesses trade with the rest of the EU and, indeed the wider world The EU has not yet said whether Scotland will automatically accede to the EU, whether it will have to apply for membership and if it does how long the process would take. What would happen in the meantime is anyone’s guess.

Indeed this is just the start of questions as to which laws and bodies Scottishbased businesses will have to work with in the event of independence.

According to the UK government, Scotland would need to create 200 new bodies to replace the UK’s governmental

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Alex Salmond has been leading the independence argument for Scottish voters

and quasi-governmental institutions.

The director of CBI Scotland Iain McMillan, says such issues are unsettling businesses north of the border.

“Businesses are troubled by the risks and costs involved,” he says. et the debate is oddly muted. With very few exceptions larger businesses are generally keeping their council. Alistair Darling, leading the Better Together campaign, claims many business leaders are opposed to independence but are keeping silent because they fear reprisals from independence campaigners. It follows an anti-Asda social media storm after the supermarket suggested prices would have to rise across the border in the event of independence.

The silence from business is all the more surprising given the fact that there is likely to be big disruption in certain sectors, notably financial services companies, which would most likely need to restructure their businesses if an independent Scotland decided to adopt the Euro. Oil companies might also find

Y

themselves having to make changes depending on how the North Sea oil and gas fields are divided.

Smaller businesses, meanwhile, seem genuinely unsure about the likely impacts, positive or negative, according to a recent UK-wide survey from the UK Chambers of Commerce. It found 90% of companies reporting no substantive impact on their business to date.

Only small numbers of businesses say that the referendum is having an effect, mainly on investment decisions in Scotland itself.

“We support the long-standing calls from our colleagues in Scottish Chambers of Commerce for better information and real clarity from both the “yes” and “no” campaigns on what the referendum’s outcomes could mean for business prospects in every nation and region,” said ohn Longworth, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce.

The information vacuum is also a source of frustration for members of the Forum of Private Businesses. The FPB’s best guess is that the impact of independence is likely to be mixed among its members, says Alexander ackman, the FPB’s head of policy. “We definitely have some members who will relocate out of Scotland if it becomes independent. That said, it may well be that others see opportunities to invest there.”

So what can businesses do It seems that a handful are deciding not to invest in businesses north of the border but most simply do not have the information needed to make any big decisions and are waiting for more information first before taking a considered view.

With only a few months to go before the vote, clarity on almost every major issue affecting any business with Scottish connections cannot come soon enough.

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PBTP

movers & shakers OF THE ASIAN WEDDING INDUSTRY P hotogr aphs by

E y ej ogia.com onl ocationat T heD or chester ( L ond on)

Your wedding day is one of the most special and memorable in your life. However, the pressure of getting a hundred different elements right, looking fantastic, and working to the same schedule can sometimes be a nightmare. Step forward the talented professionals that work behind the scenes to make everything run like clockwork. The people behind the businesses have dedicated their careers to ensuring the celebration is a dream and doesn’t turn into a nightmare. We talk to nine of the best suppliers in the business to discover why they love it so much.

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venue

OLD SCHOOL GLAMOUR

The Dorchester has combined style, substance and service since it was first built in 1931. Today, invigorated by executive sous-chef Uday Shankar, it is bringing a new sense of chic to the Asian wedding market.

How did the Dorchester get into the Asian wedding business? The focus on the Asian wedding business was

and think outside of the box is real high. There are no lows

developed from Uday and his team, bringing together expertise and knowledge. It made sense to bring together this element with our beautiful event spaces.

Why do you love working in this business? Bringing a

What do you believe sets your business apart from the competition? The history and heritage of The Dorchester

means it is one of London’s iconic British hotels. The choice of spaces means we are able to offer our clients many different options for the numerous events that sometimes make up an Asian wedding.

What have been your highs and lows of working in the wedding business? The main high is being able to be part of

such a special moment in people’s lives and one that they will hopefully cherish for their lifetime. Also, being able to be creative

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couple’s dreams to life is amazing, every time.

Where would you like your business to go in the next five years? We would love to be able to expand our reach in the

market. We’d also like to push the boundaries when it comes to our culinary offering. We have established ourselves as a premier Asian wedding venue in London, but we would like to also focus our efforts into raising awareness of our luxury country house hotel in Ascot, Coworth Park, as the perfect country venue for Asian weddings.

Webs ite: dor chester collection.com E m ail: gr oupande v entsales.T D L @ dor chester collection.com T elephone : 027319

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décor

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Bhavesh Patel founded Mistique Events, a specialist décor company, almost 20 years ago.

He talks about the late nights and making the Mistique magic a permanent thing.

How did you get into the decor business? Mistique Events has evolved from my early days where balloons (yes, balloons ) were a big concept in decor and creating a certain level of atmosphere in a wedding or corporate event. This was the making of something big to come What do you believe sets your business apart from the competition? Competition is very healthy as it keeps you on

your toes. I do not believe in creating identikit events or celebrations, everyone has individual tastes and budgets and my role is to tailor make their event. We offer contemporary, clean-cut and inspirational concepts and creative designs.

What have been your highs and lows of working in the wedding business? Mistique Events is regarded as a very

respectful d cor and production company amongst the wedding industry, which makes me very proud The lows are the break-

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down/de-rigs of each event where at 2am the event finishes and you’ve got to dismantle an ocean of rigging..

Why do you love working in this business? My clients to see the reaction on their faces and the gratitude they give me in putting together an exceptional event that’s when you’re on a high (without any intoxicating beverage) Where would you like your business to go in the next five years? I’m going to carry on giving each of my clients a memo-

rable and captivating event, but my dream is to own a venue with a ballroom so I can permanently install the magic that Mistique Events brings in our temporary installations.

Web site: m ev ents.co.uk E m ail: inf o@ m ev ents.co.uk T elep hone: 0 2 0 8 6 6 4 1 1 3 3

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TH E V 12 VAN TAG E S EXTREME SPORTS

POWER:

ACCELERATION:

SPEED:

565BHP

0-60MPH IN 3.7 SECONDS

205MPH

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S urban 12.6 (22.5); extra-urban 27.7 (10.2); combined 19.2 (14.7). CO2 emissions 343 g/km. The mpg/fuel economy figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing and they are for comparability purposes only.

WWW. ASTONMARTI N.COM/EXTREME

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photography

PICTURE PERFECT

Sanjay and Roshni Jogia are the husband and wife team behind Eye Jogia, one of the most creative and luxurious photographers in the business.

How did you get into the photography business? I always

loved creating art by recreating what I see. While I was at university I pushed my photographic skills as part of my presentation techniques. Over the following years people began asking if I would cover their events and demand grew.

What sets your business apart from the competition? our imagery is very distinct clients fall in love with this and our style of storytelling. The fact that we are husband and wife gives us an edge. Roshni and I have many likes and dislikes that overlap but our unique traits enrich the experience.

What have been your highs and lows of working in the wedding business? Fortunately, we have seen mostly highs

in the business. We have made many close friends, formed an amazing network of wedding suppliers and we are very selective with the clients that we accept. We have worked on

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many challenging yet creatively fruitful commissions and our global following has gathered an incredible pace.

Why do you love working in this business? The appreciation from our couples is hugely gratifying As much as they recognise the value of what we do for them on the day, they always realise after the event that we’ve preserved their memories and created a family heritage.

Where would you like your business to go in the next five years? Continued growth as an exclusive luxury brand but

more importantly lead the evolution (or revolution) of the luxury wedding industry.

Webs ite: e y ej ogia.com E m ail: i nf o@ ey ej ogia.com T elephone : 0798543

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MEDIA PARTNER

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music

BRINGING THE BEATS

Jags Klimax has been in the music business since he was 16 but he still feels honoured when a couple wants him to be part of their special day.

How did you get into the DJ business? I first saw D s per-

form when I was 14 and thought it was very cool. I then saved until I was 16 and able to purchase a pair of turntables. I had the opportunity to D at a student night, one student night a week grew into four and before I knew it I was getting booked to D in nightclubs all around the UK and world. Alongside club nights I ventured into D ing at Asian weddings, which is now the main core of my business.

What sets you apart from the competition? I am very hon-

oured and lucky to be placed as one of the best Asian D s in the world, which is a massive element to being unique when clients come to book me for their event. The relationship we like to build with clients from the day of booking to the big day and further is something we are always complimented on and proud of.

What have been your highs and lows of working in the

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wedding business? The most obvious high has got to be when a couple have chosen me and the team to be a part of the biggest day of their life. There is no bigger compliment then that. And a low has to be all the hard work that goes into creating the large and elaborate shows for events. That thought of “I’m getting too old for this” always starts to kick in.

Why do you love working in the wedding business? I love

it as this is all I have wanted to do and be. It has never once felt like work.

Where would you like your business to go in the next five years? Simple. Onward and upwards.

Webs ite: j agsklim ax .com E m ail: i nf o@ j agsklim ax .tv T elephone : 0792568

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jewellery

A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND

Chris Lee has been creating custom-made wedding jewellery for the past 35 years. He has kept up to date with the latest fashions from his base in London’s prime diamond spot, Hatton Garden.

How did you get into the jewellery business? I was always into treasure and gems as young boy and the significance attached to jewellery and rings, and how they played a part throughout history connected to kings and queens. I started my apprenticeship in 1979 when I was 16 years old, and have worked in the same premises until now, 35 years later A friend had a connection in Hatton Garden, it was the only way to get into this area back then, you had to know someone.

weddings rings, all experiences are highs and there are hardly any lows. Making the weddings rings for our clients is a very personal and memorial experience for both me and the customer.

Why do you love working in the wedding business? I love

the business because of the challenges that still arise, as style and trends change, and as more clients are more discerning and exacting. It is so worthwhile when you see the delight on the customers face once the item is finished.

What sets your business apart from the competition?

I think what sets us apart from the main is that we still give a totally hand-made service using traditional skills, so that we can tailor the piece of jewellery to our customer’s specific design or idea.

What have been your highs and lows of working in the wedding business? Working in the wedding business, mainly

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Where would you like your business to go in the next five years? I would like for my client base to grow even larger

within the next five years.

Webs ite: al ex isj ew els.com E m ail: c hr is@ alex isj ew els.com T elephone : 0274569

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PBTP

beauty

A MAN OF MANY FACES

Despite a degree from the London College of Fashion, Dil Matharu has made his name in an equally creative art, makeup. But now he wants to make his mark on the international stage.

How did you get into the beauty business? I began my makeup career in 2009. Growing up my mother was a great influence she was and still is a very stylish woman. I graduated in Fashion but always enjoyed the power of makeup and began work with MAC Cosmetics.

part of a bride’s big day makes it all worthwhile.

What do you believe sets your business apart from the competition? I have learnt to interpret every client look

Why do you love working in this business? No bride or wedding is the same. Weddings now are bigger than ever. The industry has a huge demand on makeup artistry now that it’s not only the bride getting her makeup done. I’m lucky enough to be able to do brides from all cultures. Asian wedding in general are so lavish and glam, it’s the best place to be.

by understanding my client before I work on them, and that makes me very versatile. I also like to work with good quality products and love challenges.

Where would you like your business to go in the next five years? I would like to work more internationally. I’ve

What have been your highs and lows of working in the wedding business? A big misconception is that

make up artistry is glamorous most people only see the final outcome but what goes behind it all is a different story. A typical day is a 4.30am start and a finish at around 8.30pm, but being

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done weddings in India, Dubai, and Singapore and it’s given me a real taste to what the international brides are like.

Web site: d ilm athar u.com E m ail: inf o@ d ilm athar u.com T elep hone: 0 7 9 6 0 3 3 7 3 8 6

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cakes

THE CONFECTIONERY QUEEN

Kiran Mandalia left a comfortable corporate job to follow her dream in the creative cake business. Today the business, Cake Boulevard is going from strength to strength.

How did you get into the cake business? I used to be a

management accountant for the BBC and Thomson Reuters. I always knew that I wanted to set up my own business. Following the birth of my son, I made the life-changing decision to follow my dream and left my accountancy books on the shelf.

think there exist any lows in this fast paced and extravagant industry

What do you believe sets your business apart from the competition? The cakes are made to order, with new flavours

Why do you love working in this business? Creating the centre piece for the Bride and Groom is a true honour. The industry is extremely fast paced and clients are continuously pushing the boundaries to ensure their cake is unique. The sheer challenge and not knowing what I will be creating next is what I love.

created on request. All the flowers are crafted by hand and matched to the client’s theme. These elements make each cake unique and we rarely create the same cake twice.

Where would you like your business to go in the next five years? Cake Boulevard will be the leader in the cake industry for

What have been your highs and lows of working in the wedding business? The overwhelming response from clients

and renowned industry experts, which in turn has led to some amazing collaborations to create the most unique centrepieces which have been showcased at leading wedding events. I don’t

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design and service with the company growing to multiple stores and the experience, service and flavours available nationwide.

Web site: cakeb oulev ar d .com E m ail: inf o@ cakeb oulev ar d .com T elep hone: 0 7 9 0 4 9 2 4 3 7 5

71 11/02/2014 18:54

ALL AIRCRAFT OFFERED BY NETJETS ® EUROPE ARE MANAGED AND OPERATED BY NETJETS TRANSPORTES AÉREOS S.A., AN EU AIR CARRIER. NETJETS IS A REGISTERED SERVICE MARK. NETJETS INC. IS A BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY COMPANY. © 2014 NETJETS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. EMAILS SENT TO THIS ADDRESS WILL BE VIEWED BY NETJETS AND ASIAN WEALTH MAGAZINE FOR THE PURPOSES OF MONITORING REFERRALS.

Yo u c a n n o t b u y s u c c e s s ,

BUT IT CAN BE INSPIRED.

Game changing ideas often come from the most unlikely of places – like 41,000 feet above the sea. That’s what being able to think in the quietest cabin in private aviation can do for you.

f o r b u s i n e s s , f o r f a m i l y, f o r l i f e

FIND OUT WHERE THE SIGNATURE SERIES CAN TAKE YOU / +44 (0)20 7361 9620 / ASIANWEALTH@NETJETSEUROPE.COM

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travel

THE HIGH FLIER

Deepak Nangla still aspires for perfection in all parts of the business, whether its finding the correct flight, or the perfect holiday and most importantly at the right price.

How did you get into the travel business? It was a family

business – thought I would give it a go, and 22 years on I am still giving it a go Best of all, its ownership is still within the family, and it is run like a family, with every member playing their part.

What do you believe sets your business apart from the competition? Well, there are a lot of answers to that, but in a

nutshell it is gratifying when the competition follows what you are doing. Then you know you are leading the way.

What have been your highs and lows of working in the wedding business? Highs are always the satisfaction of

knowing that you have arranged the perfect first holiday for the married couple. What’s even more rewarding is when a year later they contact us and book their first anniversary trip as well.

The lows are when circumstances beyond your control, such as an ash cloud, postpones the planned getaway, or when freak

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weather conditions at the destination spoils the couple’s well deserved holiday.

Why do you love working in this business? An endless list: the consistent changes in the industry, the challenges it brings, the friends that I have made and the people working with me.

The variety of tasks and the opportunities within this business are limitless. These keep me yearning to get to work every day.

Where would you like your business to go in the next five years? Go global. Enhance the understanding of our customers,

continue to meet the needs of our suppliers, and have a team that delivers on its promise 100% of the time.

Webs ite: br ightsun.co.uk E m ail: P r em ier @ br ightsun.co.uk T elephone : 028195

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Devnaa Asian Wealth Ad Jan2014 V1_Layout 1 09/02/2014 19:04 Page 1

Award Winning.

Creative. Beautiful.

Made in London, desired Worldwide.

When we launched Devnaa, we set out with a simple mission – to create the world’s finest Indian inspired confectionery. We’ve won multiple awards for our extraordinary chocolate and even won awards for our beautiful packaging. Devnaa chocolates have been presented to A-list Bollywood stars and sent around the globe by multinational businesses as unique corporate gifts. We’ve catered for the most memorable weddings and developed recipe books that are loved by people worldwide. For 2014 we’ve added a passion fruit caramel and mango fudge to our signature chocolate collection.

indian inspired confectionery

devnaa.com

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PBTP

TO ONES H WATC R O OUT F

entertainment

SNAP HAPPY

Nirav and Vishal Patel have been part of the wedding scene with their photobooth business for the last 18 months. Since then, the team hasn’t stopped innovating to improve their product and service.

How did you get into the photobooth business? Myself and my brothers-in-law – Vishal and Mehul – established the business in 2012. We had seen the photobooth idea about four years ago and we loved it. We did a lot of research into the software, pricing and the logistics of running the business alongside our full-time jobs. Within two weeks of deciding to go ahead with the business we had registered the name and were underway with setting up the company.

What sets your business apart from the competition? our prices are competitive but we don’t compromise on quality, and pride ourselves on our service and are thriving to be the best on the market our templates are always bespoke for the couple and the finished quality is excellent. Our customer service is second to none, we always treat people how we would like to be treated and that works very well for us. We are always evolving our offering, investing in social media and actively monitoring what is going on in the market.

What have been your highs and lows of working in the wedding business? Our highest point was our first bookings

those first clients gave us a springboard to show future customers our portfolio and what we could achieve. Our lowest point

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was dealing with a dishonest supplier, but we have turned that into a positive, we now offer a service to other photobooth operators so they can avoid the same mistakes we made, even though they will turn into our competitors eventually.

Why do you love working in the wedding business? you

get to meet lots of different people and have so many different experiences. Being able to be part of our clients happiness and celebration is an honour. We operate a product which really allows people to let loose and enjoy themselves and this is great to see.

Where would you like your business to go in the next five years? We have two photobooths and we’d like that number

to grow. We’d like to be in the position to employ more people and have others manage the photobooths for us so that we can concentrate on innovating our business. We are working on a very unique product at the moment, watch this space Webs ite: phot oboot hinn.co.uk& f acebook .com / P hotoboot hI nn E m ail: i nf o@ phot oboot hinn.co.uk T elephone : 07948/ 07956 7

75 11/02/2014 18:54

OVER 30 MILLION CHILDREN IN SOUTH ASIA DO NOT GO TO SCHOOL. MOST OF THEM ARE GIRLS.

Education is a priority for The British Asian Trust.

We help poor children, especially girls, go to school.

We do that by investing in local charities — like Educate Girls in Rajasthan, India — that are making the greatest impact on poverty in South Asia.

Our unique approach aims to encourage philanthropy amongst the British Asian community by:

Since 2008, Educate Girls has touched the lives of more than 37,000 girls. Through our portfolio of high-impact charities like Educate Girls, the Trust has reached out to more than 350,000 people in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

• Showcasing grassroots charities that do not have adequate visibility in the UK

Founded by British Asian business leaders at the suggestion of HRH The Prince of Wales, the Trust promotes effective giving that creates lasting change in South Asia.

• Combating scepticism in the important sector of charitable giving in South Asia

• Sharing the progress of donations through regular reports

Help us bring lasting change to South Asia.

“The British Asian Trust supports innovative and inspirational organizations and projects in South Asia and in the United Kingdom to address issues of long term sustainability.”

PRESIDENT: HRH THE PRINCE OF WALES

THE BRITISH ASIAN TRUST IS A UK REGISTERED CHARITY (1127366)

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Visit www.britishasiantrust.org to learn more and donate online or call: +44 (0)20 7024 5646

‘

27/03/2012 11/02/2014 10:46 18:54

TiEUK

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

as a PROFESSION OF choice Attitudes, activity and growth aspirations are key drivers to a successful career as an entrepreneur, says Sanjeev Ahuja a member of the global board of trustees for TiE.

12 10:46

PHOTOGRAPH BY PHILBOURNE.COM

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‘‘

‘‘

ACCorDInG To ThE oFFICE For nATIonAl STATISTICS, ThE UK’S GDP AnnUAl GroWTh rATE, expanded by 1.9% in the third quarter of 2013 compared to the same quarter in 2012.

Sustained cuts in government spending, substantial inward investments, and tax relief for corporations and individuals collectively helped UK banks build up large liquid assets. These funds, when made available to local enterprise, enabled start-ups and established businesses to grow and innovate.

Financial turmoil has catalysed simultaneous chain reactions within the political establishment and in the minds of our creative and enterprising younger generation.

Painful austerity measures cost us a lot of existing jobs through cuts and business shutdowns, before the economy was healthy enough to create new jobs again.

Population growth projections paint an alarming picture – a steady reduction in the ratio of what is required versus what is available around the world, in jobs, energy, food, etc. The onS predicts that the UK population will increase to over 70 million in the next 15 years; more than half as a natural increase; the rest through immigration.

Changing attitudes recognise “success” not only in terms of good jobs, but also in founding a company, or creating something new for consumption by the burgeoning population. Could ambitious immigrants further spur opportunity creation and economic growth, or would porous borders create increasing liability for our existing social programmes, and lead a depleted treasury to trigger higher taxation?

Entrepreneurship must pick-up further pace; institutional environment to support it will have to adapt quickly at local,

national, regional and global levels, or risk missing out on the economic benefits of this unstoppable phenomenon. However, it takes more than just smart people with good ideas. Entrepreneurship education, timely mentoring and coaching, effective networking and a change in societal values are key factors in seeding an entrepreneurial mindset among the populace.

Government policy must pave the way: new laws that promote the path to entrepreneurship are required, which are complemented by supportive financial environment and robust infrastructure, as well as relevant legal and commercial services.

While policy, regulations and government programmes to encourage entrepreneurship are essential, cultural and social factors are fundamental. An enterprising appetite can be dramatically influenced by attitudes and the extent of on-going activity. Migratory populations can be a leverage point; but it requires a robust, forward-looking, and equitable immigrant policy. Ambitious migrants contribute to developing an environment within which entrepreneurship can thrive.

Entrepreneurship is a multifaceted and dynamic phenomenon that varies widely around the world. The impact of social values, political climate, economic priorities, and technology-driven upheavals, coupled with an increasing “migration sans frontiè res” will shape the future entrepreneurial landscape.

It is timely that we teach our youngsters to take charge of their own lives, setting higher goals and aspiring to achieve them, comfortable in the belief that they have our support not just financially but also in attitude towards their endeavour. uk.tie.or g

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How To...

{ {

TEN OF THE BEST

business apps

Whether you’ve got an iPhone, iPad or Android device, there are a plethora of apps to help make business a breeze. Do your accounts, take notes and keep detailed to-do lists with these must-have mobile add-ons.

Evernote

F r ee on iO S , And r oid , Wind ow s P hone This superb productivity tool lets you scribble down notes, scrawl out sketches, stash photos and make voice recordings.

Best of all, it syncs with your Mac or PC, so you can access your ideas no matter what device you’re using. The free version comes with 60mb monthly storage, which can be boosted with a premium subscription.

Google Drive

F r ee on iO S , And r oid Google’s free cloud-based productivity suite is peerless. Working across iPhones and Android devices, as well as iPad, Mac and PC, you can create word documents, spreadsheets and presentations, with the ability to edit them offline. Share with colleagues and even let them edit your handiwork.

Billminder

£ 1 .4 9 on iO S , £ 1 .9 9 on And r oid Stay on top of your overheads with this cheap add-on, which works on both ioS and Android. Get reminders on when to pay any kind of bill, from the office’s heating to mobile phone bills and stay abreast of outgoings thanks to a colourcoded calendar.

Dropbox

F r ee on iO S , And r oid , Wind ow s P hone Ideal for sharing large files, Dropbox works across all smartphone platforms

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and can be installed on Macs and PCs, as well as being accessible online. Store photos, presentations and reports, share them with staff and password protect them to ensure they stay secure.

much you’ve spent. It converts foreign currency expenses automatically and exports to Excel, so you can see all your spending in one simple spreadsheet.

LinkedIn

Kashoo Accounting

F r ee on iO S f or iP ad , £ 3 4 .9 9 annual sub scr ip tion Staying on top of accounts can be overwhelming, especially when you’re starting out. This iPad-focused app aims to make things easier, with receipt scanning via the tablet’s camera, invoice-building templates and the ability to import bank statements. It also offers robust security, with pass codes to protect your vital data.

TripIt Travel Organiser

F r ee on iO S and And r oid This clever app is aimed squarely at road warriors and jet-setters. Forward travel confirmation emails, from flight bookings to car rentals to plans@ tripit.com and it automatically builds an itinerary for you, serving up reminders and even details about your destinations. If you use Gmail, it’ll work automatically, syncing your information via Google’s servers.

Expensify

F r ee on iO S and And r oid The drudgery of expenses can often detract from getting down to the nitty gritty of business. however, Expensify makes it a doddle. It scans and reads receipts, creating instant reports on how

F r ee f or iO S , And r oid , Wind ow s P hone The social network for business is a great way to stay in touch with old contacts, make new ones and run the rule over potential clients. The smartphone app is smartly designed and is essential for building your own profile and searching out likeminded entrepreneurs with whom you can do business.

TouchDown

F r ee on iO S and And r oid , sub scr ip tion r eq uir ed If you use secure Microsoft Exchange servers to access email, then TouchDown is the best way to get your messages on your iPhone or Android device.

Essentially, it is a way of getting outlook on your smartphone, including calendar information, contacts and task notes.

Splashtop 2 Remote Desktop

F r ee on iO S and And r oid , $ 1 6 annual sub scr ip tion The tablet boom has made doing business on-the-go easier than ever. But chances are you still need to use your trusty desktop computer. Splashtop marries up the two, letting you access your office-based machine remotely via the web. It works with both Mac and PC.

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MOTORING IN LUXURY WITH

Mercedes Benz No other car lives up to the standards so famously set by company founder Gottlieb Daimler quite as comprehensively as the new top model from Mercedes-Benz.

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On The Road

t

hE nEW ToP MoDEl FroM MErCEDES BEnZ, the S 600, is soon to have its world premiere at the Detroit Auto Show, with the market launch to follow in March 2014 . But the S-Class is about to get even better in other ways, too: the models in the current range will be upgraded with the addition of a head-up display, touchpad and collision prevention assist plus. The S 600 with V12 biturbo engine is the top model in the already successfully established S-Class and is available exclusively with long wheelbase and with a luxurious package of equipment and appointments.

“The S-Class has always been the embodiment of our claim to deliver the very best in terms of both technology and design” emphasised ola Kä llenius, executive vice-president of sales and marketing at

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Mercedes-Benz Cars. “And our flagship model, the S 600, epitomises the focus of our development work, the ‘Essence of luxury’, in a way that no other model can. our customers in north America and Asia in particular will enjoy this new top model with its exciting V12 engine.”

With an output of 530 hp, the V12 biturbo engine in the S 600 packs a bigger punch than its predecessor did with 517 hp. The displacement of the engine has increased from 5,513 to 5,980 cc. The maximum torque of 830 nm is available from 1,900 rpm. The S 600 now for the first time features the eco start/ stop function as standard, which contributes to the car reaching the Euro 6 emissions standard. The combined fuel consumption of the S 600 stands at 25.4 mpg – a 21% improvement over its predecessor (20 mpg).

The comprehensive standard specification of the S 600 reinforces its role as a flagship model. The LED intelligent light system, the magic body control suspension with road surface scan and the Driving Assistance package Plus all come as standard.

ADDITIONAL TOUCHES IN THE NEW S-CLASS From March, all the functions of the head unit can be controlled by fingertip gesture, as with a smartphone, from the new optional touchpad. In addition, the touchpad allows letters, numbers and special characters to be entered in handwriting in

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ENGINE AT A GLANCE ● All-aluminium crankcase ● One-piece chain drive ● Forged crankshaft in high-grade quenched and tempered steel ● Modified forged pistons ● New engine control unit ● New dedicated ignition coil with twin-spark ignition ● Cam follower ● Two intake and one outlet valves (three-valve technology) ● Hollow-stem outlet valves, filled with sodium ● Low-temperature coolingwater circulation.

any language that is available on the head unit. The touchpad offers an additional, full-function input option over and above the existing controller.

A head-up display is also available as an option for the S-Class. It displays important information directly in the driver’s field of view on the front windscreen, so ensuring that the driver’s attention is distracted less from the road ahead. The system provides information on speed, speed limits and navigation instructions.

A clear windscreen even at sub-zero temperatures is now possible thanks to electric windscreen heating. This is designed to work in conjunction with the air-conditioning blower and ensures clear visibility in no time at all.

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BASK IN THE LUXURY OF

Barcelona

Varun Sharma revisits one of his favourite cities and discovers that you are never alone in this magnificent Catalan city.

“WElCoME To BArCElonA SEÑ or,” my limousine driver growled in a thick Catalan accent. “If you are in my city for a rest you will find peace, if you here for fun I will find you a party and if you are here on business, I wish you every success”. his speech sounded a tad rehearsed but he neatly encapsulated why people visit this wonderful city – work, rest or play.

The drive from the international airport to my hotel – The Mandarin oriental, Barcelona – was short and sweet, taking in views of the odd Gaudi masterpiece, the Mediterranean Sea and the buzzing cafe culture which I love so much.

The entrance to The Mandarin is situated between a Briony boutique and a Tiffany Co the hotel is the ultimate Catalan-sandwich-filler.

I have been staying in Mandarins for over three decades with my favourites

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Travel

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PHOTOGRAPHY GEORGE APOSTOLIDIS COURTESY OF MANDARIN ORIENTAL HOTEL GROUP

The open air pool offers a magnificent view over Barcelona

being the original hong Kong property and The oriental in Bangkok. This luxury hotel group has traditionally offered faultless and genuine service, magnificent cuisine, superbly appointed rooms and fabulous facilities – all housed in a prime location.

The Mandarin oriental, Barcelona is located in the centre of the city on the Passeig de Gracia which also boasts the Casa Battlo and the Casa Milla – both Gaudi creations. The building was once a bank but is now home to 88 guestrooms and 10 suites. There is also a 12-metre lap pool, a roof-top open-air pool – fabulous in the summer months, a spa, fitness centre, bar and a Michelin-star restaurant.

In my opinion, there is only a clutch of true luxury hotels in Barcelona - The Arts (ritz-Carlton), ABaC and The Gran hotel la Florida being my other city accommodation highlights.

What makes the Mandarin special for me is the quality of her staff. reception ensured that I was offered a guestroom with a street view; housekeeping ensured I was provided a buckwheat pillow and hypoallergenic bathroom products, the concierge ensured that I was party to only the exclusive city hangouts to sip champagne and was easily placed on the VIP lists of clubs.

Bellboys were able to describe where the nearest pharmacy for headache tablets was located and the hotels delightful sommelier ensured that the finest Spanish red wine – the Abadia Reuterta 2001 was available in endless supply. In a luxury hotel like the Mandarin, Barcelona even when you travel by yourself, you are never really alone.

The hotel is so modern in design it is almost futuristic. The furniture looks way more uncomfortable than it actually is; the rooms are technologically advanced while still being accessible to grandmothers and if the hotel was a movie set, then 2001: A Space Odyssey would have been filmed here.

So, my stay was memorable – but so was my exploration of the

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London’s Award-winning Independent Hotels

17 London locations 2000 luxury guest rooms and suites 2000 plus capacity in state-of-the-art conference and events spaces Awarded Best Small Hotel Company - Business Travel Awards 2013 T: +44 (0) 20 7233 7888 | E: reservations@grangehotels.com www.grangehotels.com @grangehotels

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH PREMIER

HOME OF STYLE: ROME, FLORENCE & MILAN

city in general.

I judge distances by cigar length. It takes me 69 minutes to enjoy a Davidoff Special A – exactly the time it took to walk to Gaudi’s Park Guell, from the hotel, where I enjoyed a sensational sunrise and large black sugar-filled coffee.

It was just a Davidoff Entreacto from the Mandarin to one of the most famous and magnificent churches in the world – la Sagrada Familia – which architect Gaudi started to build in 1882 and will be finally completed (so is said) within 14 years.

During my many cigar-strolls, I enjoyed the odd bottle of champagne, kilos of fine aged jamon, numerous slices of tomato bread and even the odd yummy Crema Catalana – the local dessert.

I was lucky, it may have been november, but although chilly, the sun was shining brightly and this made the whole experience all the better. I have visited Barcelona in summer, when it is really too hot and stuffy, and in the depths of winter, when it is just dull.

Barcelona is one of the most popular luxury travel destinations in Europe – because it has something for everyone – whether they are there for work, rest or play!

THE HIGHS ● All the food and drink – especially breakfast and the Venison at supper ● The cocktail list at the Bankers Bar ● The concierge desk ● roof-top outdoor swimming pool and sun deck ● The impressive address ● The bed – comfortable and comforting ● The welcome THE LOWS ● Some guestrooms do not have a bath, just a shower ● Internet access is not complimentary ● no sea views ● The farewell

I

TALY, FROM TOP TO TOE, is as diverse as it is unique.

From the dramatic mountain peaks in the north to the sandy beaches in the south and lush vineyards, there is plenty to see and explore. Toss a coin into Rome’s Trevi fountain or relax on the picturesque Amalfi coast, Italy delights you in its every facade.

Rome! Could it possibly be the most stylish city in the world? Free-flowing fountains along the pebbled streets with independent cafes selling the finest of cappuccinos create a picture just apt for a pristine recoil. Structures like the Colosseum and Pantheon stand as true examples of the city’s past power and glory.

The Tuscan city of Florence is a historic city situated along the Tuscan hills. The city boasts landmarks such as Palazzo Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, Duomo di Firenze, the Florence Cathedral and the world’s greatest art museums and galleries. Maybe Florence takes the title of the most stylish city in the world?

Or Milan, northern Italy’s richest county that boasts the reputation as one the most vital fashion capitals of the world.

Via Monte Napoleone is the place to see and be seen with couture houses Valentino , Gucci and Prada lining the streets and fashionistas sipping wine in classy eateries. Maybe Milan is the most stylish city in the world! Why not visit all three cities and decide for yourself?

Call Premier by Brightsun on 0208 819 9852 to book your luxury holiday to Italy.

V ar un S har m a is the host of I nsid e L ux ur y T r av el – a telev ision show on T r av el C hannel that f ocuses on high- end tr av el. H is new ser ies air s in Ap r il.

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w

A YEAR OF Ben Booth, senior brand manager for Chivas Regal tells AWM what the luxury whiskey brand has been up to in 2013, and what it is planning for 2014.

hAT’S In STorE For ChIVAS In 2014 ? Well, 2013 was a big year for Chivas in the UK. It was the year of partnerships, the year Chivas really started to cement itself as the leading Scotch whisky in the world of prestige and luxury. Chivas worked with some of the leading luxury brands from the UK: across watches with Bremont and a series of talks in their fantastic Mayfair boutique; with tailoring at norton & Sons of Savile row, and with businesses like The ritz hotel and Claridges. Chivas then formed a partnership with the Savile row Bespoke Association which launched with a party on Savile row in october. The Association promotes and protects the heritage and history of the most famous street in men’s tailoring. Chivas works with them to tell the stories of Savile Row and Chivas whiskies. In the first film produced by the two companies the very handsome Upen Patel was one of models

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wearing Savile row Bespoke. Through 2014 you can expect to see quite a lot of work happening with the tailors of Savile row.

Chivas in 2013 spent a great deal of time supporting and partnering with the Asian community in the UK. To pick out just a few examples; Chivas worked with The Asian Business Awards (for the fifth year) and with Paul Sagoo and the Asian Awards, one of the most glamorous events in the calendar; Chivas supported Asiana’s couture fashion show and was part of the celebrations for Diwali with associations as diverse as KPMG and the Sindhi Association of the UK. In all, Chivas had a busy old year.

So what’s coming up for Chivas in 2014 ? More of the same, and better! The partnership with Savile row will of course play a big part over the next 12 months with Savile row events in London and further afield. Chivas will be taking the stories of the tailors out of Savile row to locations across the UK. you can see some of the exciting work the two brands are doing at

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH CHIVAS REGAL

partnerships chivas.com/ savilerow. The new series of films will be coming out – Meet the Masters, taking you inside the world of luxury gentlemen’s tailoring. There will be events and parties and lots of Chivas cocktails. It’s going to be big! one of the most exciting partnerships Chivas is involved in in 2014 is the launch of the new Madhu’s heathrow restaurant at the Sheraton Skyline. The launch parties were held in mid-January and the great and the good of Asian society partied the night away ably assisted by Chivas cocktails. It was a very glam evening. Madhu’s luxury dining experience is proudly supported by Chivas in the form of two beautiful private dining rooms – Chivas 12 and Chivas 18. Go along and have some beautiful food cooked on the grill and enjoy a Chivas cocktail while you wait.

And Chivas is going to continue to do what they do best of

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all, continue making great whiskies with beautiful packaging. last year Chivas worked with Sati Takhar to produce the first gift pack to celebrate Diwali. Again, partnering with people who share Chivas’s values and outlook will continue to be a big part of what this luxury whisky is all about.

Illy Jaffar, head of brand advocacy for Chivas had this to say: “Chivas is going through a great time in the UK right now. We find that the best way to reach people to share what we stand for is through these brilliant partnerships. Whether it’s with Paul Sagoo at the Asian Awards, Sati Takhar with beautiful packaging, Sanjay Anand at Madhu’s, or our partnership with Savile row, partnership with like-minded people and businesses is what we are all about.” chiv as.com

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A night to remember: ASIAN AWARDS 2014 The Asian Awards is now in its fourth iteration and is going from strength to strength. AWM talks to its founder, Paul Sagoo, as he tells us about his plans to raise the bar once more.

What is your strategy for the Asian Awards in 2014? We want to build on

we have created and genuinely look forward to our event as the highlight of their year. The importance of countries like China, Singapore, Japan and India for the UK is becoming stronger. Exports to these countries from the UK are up year on year and they are becoming very important to the future and long-term stability of the British economy.

The Asian Awards are an important active enabler of this growth and the event itself provides a great platform for companies wishing to interact with those regions.

What can we expect from the night, any new categories or features? I

think it’s fair to say that over the last three events we have raised the bar each time in terms of the quality of the event, people attending in general and the media coverage. our winners are always of the highest calibre and I expect that to be the case at this, our fourth event. We have discussed some new categories this year as many people have told us that there are some areas that perhaps we need to highlight specifically, such as education.

We are still working on the plans for this as adding awards is not something we take lightly and there has to be a definite reason for doing so.

What are you plans to develop the Asian Awards as a brand in the next five years? We will continue to deliver

on the awards each year whilst looking at areas to improve each time. There are obviously some areas that we can look to expand the brand, most notably, through television rights (global) and potentially moving the event to another country. I

often tell people that our event is a global one that “just happens” to take place in london. If you look at our previous winners it is feasible to suggest that the event could take place in places like new york, los Angeles or even Dubai. My personal preference is to take the event to either los Angeles or new york as I feel the diaspora there is certainly more pan-Asian than in the UK. on that note, we are also looking to push the pan-Asian aspect of the event and make people aware globally that when we say “Asian Awards”, we really mean it.

Can people nominate candidates for the Asian Awards, or are they picked by the judging panel? We do accept

In your opinion, is it still as important as ever to have an evening celebrating pan-Asian achievement? Absolute-

judges look for candidates that are consistently high achievers and portray excellence in not only their chosen careers but also in other areas of their lives. They are looking for overall positive contributors to society.

ly yes. The success of the Asian Awards to date is reflective of this requirement.

We have many guests who value what

nominations which ultimately augment the long list that is reviewed by the judges. our criteria are very high and we do often find nominations being provided at a much lower level and hence they generally do not make the long list. We will always consider nominations if they are at the right level of achievement.

What are the judges’ looking for in an Asian Awards winner? The

for candidates that are consistently high achievers” “The judges look

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY ASIAN AWARDS / PRINCESINGH.CO.UK; PHILBOURNE.COM

the pan-Asian expansion from the third awards which took place in 2013. We received overwhelming support about the decision to make the awards a pan-Asian event, proving it was the correct strategy to follow. We also want to continue to involve brands who reflect our quality level and the wealth in the room. We already have a number of very high end luxury brands who have signed up for this year.

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Events A look back at the 2013 Asian Awards . . .

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KPMG ASIAN FESTIVAL DINNER

3

1 KPMG’s Nina Amin presenting Prince Andrew with a luxury Denvaa hamper; 2 KPMG senior partner Simon Collins; 3 Nina Amin with Vin Murria (L-R); 4 Jayant Raniga with Daljit Jagait (L-R)

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munity was to the UK and thanked guests for their continued support of KPMG. Nina outlined some of the key developments for the business over the last decade since launching the event, particularly how it had grown from a firm of 6,700 people in 2004 to over 11,000 today.

KPMG were joined by many influential and important members of the Asian Business community including GP Hinduja, Surinder Arora, Lord Noon, Keith Vaz, Vijay and Bhiku Patel and George Jatania.

4 PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF KEEPHOTOGRAPHICS.COM

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The Duke of York attended KPMG’s Asian Festival Dinner in London on 29 October 2013, where 300 guests from the Asian business community gathered to celebrate the festivals of Eid and Diwali.

The event, which was hosted by senior partner Simon Collins and tax partner Nina Amin, was the 10th anniversary Asian Festival Dinner, a key gathering in the KPMG calendar.

Speaking to guests on the night Nina and Simon emphasised how important the Asian business com-

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Events 5 Bhikhu Patel, Jigna and Mayank Patel, Nina Amin and Kalpesh Patel (L-R); 6 Pinky Lilani with Nina Amin (L-R); 7 Reena Ranger with Madhu Rajesh (L-R); 8 MP Keith Vaz with Harmeet Ahuja (L-R); 9 Poonam and Puneet Gupta

5

6

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Inspired by a rich family heritage originating from the deserts of 7th century Rajasthan, Ajmere is an exciting new luxury fusion dessert brand which combines the very best of British and exotic Indian f lavours.

Our exclusive dessert concierge service allows our specialist patisserie chefs to handcraft elegant, mouth-watering and self-indulgent dessert experiences for the hospitality industry as well as your prestigious corporate events and special occasions.

Ajmere’s luxurious gourmet desserts will ensure a perfect sweet end to your truly memorable event.

Call us today or f ind us online:

020 7760 7619

/Ajmereltd

@Ajmereltd

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Events

1

2

3 1 Nina, Shirish and Sheena Amin; 2 Pooja Suri with Sanjay Arora; 3 GP Hinduja, MP Keith Vaz with Surinder Arora;

4 Jay and Roopa Rawal; 5 Nina Amin with Lord Karan Bilimoria; 6 Rishi Rich with Manrina Rhode Rekhi

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MADHU’S NEW VENTURE

The stars were out at the skyline in mid-January, as Madhu’s opened its new restaurant at the Sheraton Skyline along Heathrow’s Bath Road.

Those in attendance included speaker of the House of Commons John Bercow and MP Keith Vaz. This 140-seater restaurant is the brainchild of father and son team, Sanjay and Arjun Anand – see more of their story on page 16 of this issue of AWM. The event was one of three openings as well as a multi-faith blessing. The restaurant boasts a stripped down menu and an expanded wine list, as well as two private rooms, sponsored by Chivas Regal.

It also features a robata grill for the healthy-living patron.

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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF RAMSINGHPHOTOGRAPHERS.COM

Events

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Due to demand, AWM has introduced a business directory section in the magazine specifically to cater for the business and professional services/product providers to market themselves directly throughout the year to our readers.

This segment will consist of companies from law firms to accountants, from web designers to design agencies, from bars to hotels.

Everything today’s entrepreneur will need for tomorrow.

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

AsianW AW 57-92.indd 86e a l t h M a g . c o . u k

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01:30

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ACCIDENTS CAN CHANGE LIVES – CHOOSE THE BEST SOLICITOR

Accidents can happen to anyone, at work, on the road or even when in hospital. When you suffer because of someone else’s negligence you need the right legal representation to help with your recovery and your claim for compensation. At Levenes Solicitors, our dedicated legal team headed by the award winning Mr Mitesh Patel Partner/ Solicitor can help you recover loss of earnings, medical expenses, care and assistance following an accident.

If you or someone you know has suffered a serious accident or injury contact us now, our nationwide presence means that we can visit you at your home and our database of specialist experts are at hand to provide key reports to assist your claim and ultimate recovery. We recover millions of pounds in compensation each year for our clients.

An accident is an something you cannot do anything about, but choosing the right solicitor to help you win your case, is in your hands. Call Now.

MITESH PATEL PARTNER Winner of: Best in Legal Services (British Indian Awards 2013) Lawyer of the Year (Asian Achievers Awards 2013) Email: mpatel@levenes.co.uk

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www.levenes.co.uk Direct dial: 0208 826 1375

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

The Sethi Partnership Solicitors

‘Together we are in partnership with our clients’ Proprietor and Partner Ritu Sethi Author of “Having it all NOW” book on work life balance.

Services - Commercial & Residential

- All Immigration Matters

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- Commercial Litigation & Landlord and Tenant matters

- Personal Injury & Medical Negligence The Barn House, 38 Meadow Way, Eastcote, Ruislip, HA4 8TB | T: 0208 866 6464 | E: info@sethi.co.uk

www.sethi.co.uk

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

LINKS LEGAL S O L I C I T O R S

LL

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WWW.LINKSLEGAL.CO.UK THE MARK OF EXCELLENCE FOR THE HOME BUYING PROCESS.

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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Upcoming events ● THE ASIAN AWARDS

ADVERTISERS INDEX Ajmere

100

Asian Awards 2014

IBC

Asian Wealth Magazine

78, 79

Aston Martin

64

Banham Concierge

46

Banham Group

42

Bi-fold Door Factory

56

British Asian Trust

76

Brown Shipley

34

Cartier

IFC, 1

Chivas Regal

6, 7

Currencies Direct

38

Devnaa

74

Digimax

105

Eye Jogia Photography

106

Grange Hotels

90

Haathee Group

28, 29

Hublot

20

KJ West One

50

KPMG

36

Levenes Solicitors

108

Links Legal

110

London Chambers ABA

58

London Chocolate Company

24

May Fair Hotel

14, 15

Meridian Audio

12

Mistique Events

96, 97

National Bank of Punjab

111

Net Jets

72

Patek Philippe

OBC

Phil Bourne Photography

107

Pinnacle Advisory Services

110

Porsche UK

2, 3

Premier (Bright Sun) Travel

88

Red Row Homes

58

Santoshi Designs

70

SecretSales.com

48

The Elite Event

66

The Sethi Partnership

109

Trident Insurance

84

Vertis Aviation

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Date: 4th April 2014 Venue: The Grosvenor House Hotel (London) The Asian Awards were born out of a simple vision; to create an event which would honour only the very highest levels of achievement from within the worldwide Asian community; to create one of the most important events of its kind ever to be staged. A pioneering, unique and prestigious event, The Asian Awards is the only event that pays tribute to Asian success across all walks of life; emphasising inspiring achievements and highlighting inspirational role models in the fields of business, sport, entertainment, philanthropy and popular arts and culture.

Paul Sagoo, founder of the awards say “I think it’s fair to say that over the last three events we have raised the bar each time in terms of the quality of the event, people attending in general and the media coverage. Our winners are always of the highest calibre and I expect that to be the case at this year’s event.”

For more information: www.theasianawards.com

● THE ASIAN WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Date: 4th June 2014 Venue: Hilton Park Lane, London The Asian Women of Achievement Awards, co-founded by Pinky Lilani OBE in 1999, were conceived to celebrate the often unsung Asian heroines of British life. Such women make a huge contribution in fields as diverse as business, entrepreneurship and social and humanitarian work. These awards, are their moment in the spotlight.

As the Asian Women of Achievement Awards mark their 15th anniversary, the nationwide search to find 2014’s break-

through Asian females has begun. Held in association with the Royal Bank of Scotland, the awards were founded by entrepreneur and women’s champion Pinky Lilani OBE, with the aim of celebrating Asian women who are pushing the boundaries across a range of industries and sectors – from the arts, media and culture to business, sports and public service.

Nominations are open at: http:// awa.realbusiness.co.uk/ until Monday March 17, 2014 For more information awa.realbusiness.co.uk Email: events@caspianmedia. com T: 0207 045 7600

● LONDON CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE - ASIAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION DINNER Date: TBC Venue: TBC The Asian Business Association (ABA) Dinner brings together guests from a range of industries and is the premier gathering in the Asian business calendar. Open to Asian and non-Asian businesses, this year’s annual dinner will take place in the autumn with a date and venue to be confirmed.

Up to 450 guests will attend this event from a variety of industry sectors including professional services, IT, marketing, media, property, leisure and tourism, recruitment and training, transport and logistics and importers and exporters. Rub shoulders with key figures from business, central and local government, arts and media, high commissioners, life peers and many top Asian entrepreneurs.

For more information contact: Jenny Crouch, Event Manger, Email: jcrouch@londonchamber.co.uk T: +44 (0)20 7203 1874

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Join global and political leaders, sporting stars, music legends, business tycoons, television and film celebrities for the ultimate celebration of Asian excellence 3 287 3999 OR VISIT WWW.THEASIANAWARDS.COM For commercial opportunities email the Asian Awards team info@theasianawards.com AW_CoverChoice_Winter14.indd 3

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